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Sony SAB to telecast ‘Alibaba- Dastaan-e-Kabul’ in a new avatar
Mumbai: Sony SAB is all set to bring the Alibaba folk tale to the small screen, but in a never-seen-before avatar. Sony SAB’s new show Alibaba-Dastaan-e-Kabul promises viewers the opulence and grandeur they have never witnessed before on Indian television.
Produced by Peninsula Pictures, the show is set against the backdrop of the enchanting city of Kabul. The stellar ensemble cast in the lead roles includes debutant Sheezan Khan as Alibaba and Tunisha Sharma in the role of Mariam.
The outdoor scenes of the show have been shot in the exotic locales of Ladakh. It is set to air its premiere on Sony SAB from August 22nd, at 8 p.m., every Monday to Saturday.
The show is a tale of a charismatic young man, Alibaba, with undeterred optimism and mesmerising charm. He is the custodian of five adorable orphans. Unaware of his capabilities and disparaged by destiny, Alibaba will be seen embarking on a wondrous quest that will reshape his life forever. From being a happy-go-lucky guy to being the one chosen by destiny itself to save the fate of Kabul. Alibaba’s fantastical journey will be the crux of this dazzling new show. To make matters interesting, he will meet an interesting and arresting beauty, Mariam, who will further help him along in his quest to realise his true destiny.
With state-of-the-art computer graphics and visual effects by Illusion Reality Studioz, accompanied by an enthralling plot, this guarantees entertainment for every age group.
Speaking about the show, Sony SAB business head Neeraj Vyas said, “We are pleased beyond words to present a grand show like Alibaba Dastaan-e-Kabul, a familiar and well-loved tale, but with a fresh new take. This story is packed with drama and emotions that viewers will love to watch on television. Sony SAB has consistently worked towards choosing stories that are wholesome and that appeal to the Indian psyche. Alibaba Dastaan-e-Kabul will add value to our ever expanding and diverse portfolio, and we can’t wait for the audience to enjoy it on screen.”
Sheezan M Khan who’s portraying the role of Ali Baba said, “I’m immensely delighted to be a part of this show. Alibaba Dastaan-e-Kabul is certainly a majestic show, which will transport the viewers to a magical world. Along with an interesting storyline, the show offers an extra dose of entertainment with breath-taking visual effects and beautiful locations. I feel blessed to be able to portray the protagonist in the show. I hope the show receives a lot of love and unwavering support from the viewers.”
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
