Factual
Turner commissions documentary on Singapore Botanic Gardens
MUMBAI: Turner has commissioned a documentary called A World Icon: Singapore Botanic Gardens. The program will premiere on the recently launched World Heritage Channel in Asia. The documentary is expected to air in late 2015 or early 2016.
The documentary is produced in 4K by Beach House Pictures and uses the state of the art drone technology to film an inspiring aerial cinematography. It also features epic time lapses coupled with slow motion sequences to paint a mesmerizing and unforgettable picture of this botanic masterpiece.
The documentary will also feature expert historians, botanists and taxonomists who will be seen telling the story of the revered garden from its historical and cultural heritage to the oldest tree, largest orchid collection in the world, colonial buildings and new scientific breakthroughs, whilst shedding light on what future lies in store for this national treasure.
“The Botanic Gardens of Singapore is not just a green oasis in the heart of one of Asia’s most cosmopolitan metropolis. This is a garden like no other with fascinating stories of history, heritage, culture and science, hidden in each petal, leaf and brick. The project is perfect for World Heritage Channel, which is home to some of the most awe-inspiring history, culture, travel and nature programming. And I cannot think of a more exciting start to the first in a series of original productions for our newest brand, World Heritage Channel, as well as a more fitting way to commemorate Singapore’s golden jubilee anniversary,” said Turner Asia Pacific president Ricky Ow.
The 150-year-old Singapore botanic garden was inscribed in July 2015 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site at the 39 session of the World Heritage committee in Germany, Bonn. It is the first tropical botanic garden on the UNESCO’s World Heritage List and is the first in Asia. The 74 hectare garden holds a unique and significant place in the history of Singapore and the region.
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.
