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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.
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National Geographic launches ‘Postcards from Hong Kong’ with Ridhi Dogra
New series explores the city’s hidden gems and vibrant contrasts, premiering 28 March.
MUMBAI: Ridhi Dogra just sent a postcard from Hong Kong that’s worth framing because when a bustling metropolis reveals its quiet trails and timeless traditions, even the skyline takes a back seat. National Geographic has unveiled Postcards from Hong Kong, a refreshing travel series hosted and curated by actor Ridhi Dogra. Produced by National Geographic Creative Works in collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the show offers an intimate, Indian traveller’s perspective on one of Asia’s most iconic cities, moving beyond its glittering harbour and skyscrapers to uncover serene beaches, scenic hiking trails and deep cultural traditions.
Across three visually rich episodes, Ridhi journeys through contrasting sides of Hong Kong. The first episode takes her on a quieter path of self-discovery to places like Sai Kung, Big Wave Bay, Dragon’s Back, Tai O, Ngong Ping, Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha. The second episode dives into the city’s energetic side, from the bustling streets of Causeway Bay to Happy Valley Racecourse, Michelin-starred spots and luxury shopping at Landmark.
Ridhi Dogra said, “Being part of Postcards from Hong Kong with Nat Geo was a deeply enriching experience. What I love about this journey is that it goes beyond the obvious; it’s not just about the skyline or the speed of the city but about the stories that live in its quieter corners.”
A National Geographic India spokesperson added, “With Postcards from Hong Kong, we set out to go beyond the familiar and explore the city through a more intimate, human lens.”
Hong Kong Tourism Board director of South Asia Puneet Kumar noted, “Postcards from Hong Kong is a reflection of meaningful storytelling that brings the city to life in an immersive way. It beautifully captures the diversity and spirit that define Hong Kong.”
Blending travel, culture and personal storytelling, the series celebrates Hong Kong as a city of contrasts where modern life meets tradition and every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered. It premieres on 28 March at 8 pm on the National Geographic Channel and will also stream on JioHotstar.
In a world of hurried travel reels, Postcards from Hong Kong slows things down just enough to let viewers truly see the city not just its lights, but its layers, proving that the best souvenirs are the stories you bring home.
