Factual
NGC’s first India centric show to feature Everest
MUMBAI: In a move to broadbase its appeal among viewers and advertisers, National Geographic Channel (NGC) plans to launch an integrated programming initiative that will leverage the 50th anniversary of the Everest climb. The Everest show is the first time that NGC is creating local programming focused specifically on the Indian viewer.
Everest would be the longest series on NGC spanning a period of six months. NGC plans to target advertisers with products and brands that are synonymous with the spirit of exploration and adventure and looks at increasing its advertising revenues by 50 per cent through the Everest initiative alone.
The Everest initiative will have an integrated outreach programme that will kick off with a programme that recreates the first climb with Jamlin Norgay and Peter Hillary sons of Tenzing Norgay and Edmund Hillary.
The channels MD Zubin Gandevia said, “National Geographic sees Everest as not only topical and relevant but an awe inspiring icon that every Indian connects with.The Everest initiative will celebrate the history of Indian feats and highlight true Indian heroes.”
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.
