Factual
National Geographic India honours democratic spirit with a special feature titled India Votes #WorldsLargestElection
Mumbai: India, with nearly 97 crore registered voters, stands tall as the titan of elections as compared to USA with just 16.8 crore and Russia with 11.4 crore registered voters respectively. Interestingly, the size of the population of Uttar Pradesh is equivalent to the combined population of Germany, UK and France. As the general election fervor grasps the nation, National Geographic India brings the grandest spectacle of the year – ‘India Votes #WorldsLargestElection’. Hosted by actor Cyrus Sahukar, this 44-minute special feature offers an exclusive peek into the world’s largest elections, India’s General Elections 2024, spotlighting the intricate nuances and complexities of the country’s electoral process.
Premiering on 23 May at 8 PM on National Geographic, this captivating film serves as a beacon of insight into the upcoming general elections, evoking a strong sense of national pride and fervour for the democratic prowess. Set against the backdrop of India’s vast electoral landscape, the film strikes a balance between being informative and light-hearted, appealing to the young audience. From decoding general elections to saluting the foot soldiers of Indian Election, it showcases the scale, grandeur, technology, and human spirit inherent in the Indian Elections. The film also delves deep into the beating heart of Indian democracy and the nerve centre of our nation – the all-new parliament. Presenting India’s vibrant democratic processes, the film promises to uncover every aspect of the electoral journey like never before. Not only does it capture the Chief Election Commissioner of India in action, as he prepares for the elections, but the film also delves into his personal journey, providing viewers with a glimpse into his life beyond his official duties.
“At National Geographic, we are committed to bringing groundbreaking narratives and experiences that inspire people to see the world with optimism, energy, and hope. With this election special feature, we are thrilled to showcase the incredible journey of democracy in action, inviting viewers to celebrate the power of every vote and the unity it fosters in our nation,” said a National Geographic Spokesperson.
“The preparation for the general elections begin almost two years in advance. So we began around 2022. It’s a huge amount of capacity building, technological upgradation which has to happen, preparation of polling stations.
Announcing the election actually, it is one of the biggest professional events in one’s life, one very rarely gets this kind of public trust of 96 crores, 960 million Indian voters to do the elections peacefully inducement free, violence free and it’s a huge responsibility. ” said Rajiv Kumar, Election Commissioner of India.
As the anticipation builds and the nation braces itself for the democratic spectacle of the year, ‘India Votes: World’s Largest Election’ stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of Indian democracy.
MUMBAI: India’s most famous hot seat is about to welcome an unlikely first-timer. For the first time on Hindi general entertainment television, industrialist Kumar Mangalam Birla will appear on Kaun Banega Crorepati, the iconic quiz show hosted by Amitabh Bachchan.
The special episode marks a rare meeting point of boardroom heft and prime-time television, bringing one of India’s most influential business leaders face to face with the country’s most enduring screen legend. It is a crossover that blends intellect, leadership and popular culture, all under KBC’s familiar spotlight.
Birla’s appearance dovetails neatly with the show’s current theme, Jahaan Akal Hai, Wahan Akad Hai, which celebrates the confidence that comes from clarity of thought and knowledge. His presence lends weight to the idea that sharp thinking and conviction are as vital in life as they are in the quiz chair.
In a thoughtful conversation with Bachchan, Birla shared an upbeat view of India’s economic journey, pointing to the nation’s rapid growth and the scale of opportunity opening up across industries and communities. He spoke of momentum, ambition and a future shaped by enterprise and ideas.
The episode is not all serious talk. In lighter moments, Birla confessed his long-standing admiration for Bachchan, calling him his favourite actor and admitting to a touch of nervousness at answering questions in front of the Shahenshah himself. The candour adds a human touch to a man more often seen in headlines than on television sets.
The special episode airs on Monday, 29 December at 9.00 pm on Sony Entertainment Television and Sony LIV.
