Factual
UTV expects to launch 8 new shows on 7 channels
MUMBAI: UTV claims to have beefed up its television programming front with a clutch of new shows on channels, both domestic and overseas.
From pubcaster Doordarshan to Sony, regional channel Vijay TV to Malaysian channel Astro to the BBC, the production house says it plans to launch eight new shows across seven channels in the next quarter. While Sony Entertainment Television refuses to confirm the launch of the UTV created Sarfarosh, UTV says the show will go on air shortly, and is the story of an ordinary man who will go against all odds to save his family and his country. He is torn between dedication for his country and love for his family when his daughter gets kidnapped.
While a response could not be garnered from Star Plus, UTV says its two shows Shanno Ki Shaadi and Sim Salabi Choo Choo are to begin airing shortly. Shanno Ki Shaadi, a comic soap about a traditional Punjabi family having trouble finding a suitable match for the middle daughter. Shanno is shy, introvertish and makes the best parathas. This show is about laughter, tears, love and romance.
Sim Salabi Choo Choo is about two 10-year-old superkids who are devotees of Goddess Durga. They are blessed with powers to vanquish all evil.
UTV also says Devi, a supernatural thriller will launch on Doordarshan in December. Prayalam, a UTV creation has already premiered on Vijay TV is about a hidden treasure, which offers the power to lead the human race. The king of the state is looking for a child to sacrifice in order to acquire this treasure. This child happens to be the daughter whose existence the king is not aware of, says a UTV release.
UTV has also made a show Casa Idaman 3 for Astro RIA in Malaysia, continuing the strong programming base in Bahasa Malay built over the years by UTV’s wholly owned subsidiary in Malaysia. Casa Idaman is a tale of two matriarchs and their families. It is a story of their rivalry and how their doings are visiting and wreaking havoc on the next generation.
UTV has also ventured into the non-fiction arena, with two shows on BBC and another, identified only as ‘one of the biggest non fiction global channels headquartered in the US’.
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.
