Factual
Star News not looking beyond Hindi for now
NEW DELHI: Star News is not looking at present to spread its wings in other languages – be it English or any other Indian languages – apart from Hindi, as it feels some more time would be consumed to ride out the “churning or hectic activity” being witnessed in the news segment of the television industry.
“As and when a viable proposition for an English language (news) channel with the environment being right comes up, we’d look into it. But at the moment we are focusing only on the existing news channel in Hindi,” Star News president Ravina Raj Kohli said today on the sidelines of the Star News
Golf Cup organised at the lush Jaypee golf course on the outskirts of Delhi.
According to Kohli, “At the moment, there’s lot of churning or hectic activity going on in the industry and Star News would like to keep itself focused and ride out this phase consolidating in the process.”
Asked to elaborate on this, Kohli said that since people have many choices (amongst news channels), they are surfing a lot, even as news channels are trying out news ideas and technologies.
“It’ll take some time to settle down and, maybe, by next year things would be calmer and less hectic,” she added, pointing out when the real picture would emerge.
Reiterating her pet theory that TV channels cannot afford the luxury of showing viewers what they think is worth watching, Kohli said that the today’s viewers are demanding and want to watch what they want. “If you don’t give them what they want, they skip you,” she explained.
In this regard, Star News is attempting to be constantly in ‘touch’ with the viewers through the SMSs and e-mails received as feedback.
Pointing out that Star News is not willing to enter into the numbers game of who’s No. 1 or not, Kohli also took a swipe at competition and the leader saying it is too “over powering,” at times.
However, she was quick to add that it was a “matter of time” before they catch up with the leader (Aaj Tak).”
Asked the role that aggressive distribution can play in such a ‘hectic’ scenario, Kohli said with so many options a desire has to be created amongst viewers to watch a particular news channel. Without divulging vital statistics that go on to tell on the bottomlines of a company, Kohli said, “Star News is a revenue driver for the (Star) network.”
Factual
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.
