Factual
National Geographic’s brand-new series ‘India’s Mega Festivals’ explores the grandeur of India’s biggest celebrations with chef Gary Mehigan
Mumbai: India is a country known for its opulent traditions, vibrant culture, and striking festivals! It embraces a tapestry of over a thousand festivals, creating a symphony of boundless joy and everlasting festivities throughout the year. To witness some of the grandest festivals of India, National Geographic India along with celebrity chefs Gary Mehigan & Pablo Naranjo Agular are all set to take viewers on a mesmerizing journey through a brand-new series titled ‘India’s Mega Festivals’. Premiering on September 6, at 8pm, the hosts will immerse themselves in the country’s rich heritage, traditions and revel in flavours and fervour of the Indian festivals in the six-part series.
Each 44-minute episode will feature a host unraveling unique celebrations: from the spirited Pulikali dance to serving a mega meal in the iconic Thrikkakara Temple during Onam; learning to play rhythmic beats on dhol to visiting mega pandals during Ganpati celebrations; pandal hopping to relishing Sandesh during Durga Puja and learning the war dance with the Sumi tribe to cooking with the famous Tetseo Sisters during the Hornbill Festival. Gary will also be seen experiencing the playfulness of Ras Leela, Lath-maar and Phoolon ki Holi, and discovering the essence of fasting, feasting, giving and forgiving on Eid-al-Fitr.
“I was truly left speechless by the stunning display of devotion and the way it reflects the rich culture of India. National Geographic is a brand that has always inspired me through its unique, powerful, and thought-provoking style of storytelling. I am so happy that with National Geographic, I got an opportunity to explore, learn and experience some of the country’s biggest festivals. With this show, not only did I witness diverse cultures & traditions, but also immersed myself in regional cuisines and cooking techniques. I hope that viewers will also enjoy the show as much as I did,” said Mehigan.
“At National Geographic, we harness the power of storytelling and exploration to tell stories that can change the way we see the world while establishing a profound connection with our audiences. With India’s Mega Festivals, we are committed to bringing our viewers closer to the mesmerizing diversity of India’s rich heritage and offering a compelling and unforgettable journey through its vibrant festivities. Moreover, Gary Mehigan, with his unique charm and humor, adds an extra layer of delight to the narrative, ensuring a riveting viewing experience for our audience,” said Disney Star head – content and Disney+ Hotstar & HSM entertainment network Gaurav Banerjee.
DUBLIN: Ireland is betting big on reality television. In a move that has Hollywood scouts scrambling for their passports, Dublin has unveiled Europe’s first tax credit dedicated solely to unscripted programming—think The Traitors rather than Game of Thrones.
The scheme offers producers a juicy 20 per cent rebate on qualifying expenditure, capped at €15 million ($17.5 million) per project. It’s a cultural credit with strings attached: programmes must pass a test proving they genuinely promote Irish and European culture. No word yet on whether Love Island derivatives need apply.
Ireland tánaiste and minister for finance Simon Harris says the incentive will cement Ireland’s reputation as a “centre of excellence” for audiovisual production. His colleague, minister for culture, communications and sport Patrick O’Donovan, insists Ireland has “the talent, creativity and production expertise to lead” in unscripted television. Bold claims for a nation that has spent decades exporting scripted drama.
The timing is canny. Unscripted production costs have soared globally, making Ireland’s existing infrastructure—and now its tax breaks—increasingly attractive. Fox Entertainment Studios already churns out shows like Beat Shazam and The Floor from Irish studios. Whether these American productions will pass the cultural test remains to be seen.
Producers must secure an interim cultural certificate before filming begins, allowing them to claim credits during production rather than waiting until wrap. A final certificate follows completion. The European Commission has blessed the scheme through December 2028.
Minimum thresholds apply: productions must cost at least €250,000, with eligible expenditure above €125,000. Only one season per project can claim relief in any 12-month period, though producers can juggle multiple projects.
Britain, take note. The UK industry has clamoured for similar support for 18 months, but Westminster has dithered. India’s ministry of information and broadcasting pay heed. Its incentive scheme for co-productions excludes unscripted television. To what end, no one knows! Ireland, meanwhile, is already rolling out the red carpet—or should that be green?
The message from Dublin is clear: when it comes to backing reality TV, Ireland isn’t messing about. Lights, camera, tax action.
