Factual
Warner Bros. Discovery announces new original docu-series ‘Ek Tha Raja with Akul Tripathi’
MUMBAI: Warner Bros. Discovery is all set to launch a new Indian original docu-series, ‘Ek Tha Raja with Akul Tripathi’, premiering exclusively on Discovery channel and discovery+ starting 7 August 2025, at 9:00 PM. Blending immersive storytelling with rich historical narratives, the show revisits the courage and resilience of India’s well-known as well as unsung kings and queens, including incredible guerrilla war strategists, naval warriors and empire builders.
This eight-part series transports viewers across centuries and geographies. From Garhwal (Uttarakhand) and Malwa (western Madhya Pradesh) to Rajputana (Rajasthan), the Deccan (Maharashtra and Telangana), Karnataka, and Kashmir, each brings to life a ruler whose courage shaped history. To make it accessible to audiences across India and the South Asian diaspora, the series will be available in seven languages: English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada and Bengali.
Ek Tha Raja is hosted by Akul Tripathi, a passionate storyteller, cultural expert, and one of India’s most respected voices in historical narratives. With a deep love for the subcontinent’s heritage, Akul brings history to life through compelling storytelling that blends fact, folklore, and modern-day relevance. His unique approach adds both gravitas and accessibility to the series, inviting audiences to experience India’s past as unforgettable and memorable stories.
The show profiles remarkable rulers and leaders whose legacies live beyond the mainstream historical spotlight such as Rani Durgavati of Gondwana, who died defending her kingdom against the Mughals; Abbakka Chowta, the fiery queen of coastal Karnataka who defied Portuguese colonisers; and Lalitaditya Muktapida of Kashmir, known for building one of the region’s most formidable empires. Also featured are icons such as Maharana Pratap and Rana Sanga (Rajasthan), Peshwa Bajirao I (Maharashtra), Raja Chhatrasal (Bundelkhand), and Rani Karnavati of Garhwal, all of whom defended their land, people, and culture with unmatched courage and strategic brilliance.
Commenting on the launch, Sai Abishek, head of factual entertainment, lifestyle & kids, South Asia, Warner Bros. Discovery said, “As a brand, we’ve always believed in championing powerful narratives, and Ek Tha Raja builds on that belief. Through this series, we’re proud to bring the stories of leadership, sacrifice, and resilience, through a fresh, cinematic lens. It’s great to have a masterful storyteller like Akul Tripathi narrate these stories. His narration gives viewers a truly immersive experience into the lives of some of India’s greatest defenders.”
As Discovery marks 30 years of storytelling in India and 40 years globally this August, Ek Tha Raja with Akul Tripathi reflects this continued commitment to spotlighting stories that celebrate the country’s rich and diverse regional histories.
Host, Akul Tripathi added, “History is often remembered by its victors. India’s past is filled with remarkable figures who stood their ground against invaders and adversity. Ek Tha Raja is our attempt to honour these leaders and to remind viewers that the roots of India’s freedom run far deeper than we’re often told. It’s also a way to pass these stories on to a younger generation, to help them see India’s legacy as a reminder that courage and leadership have always been part of our DNA.”
Each episode dives into epic tales of conquest, valour, lost kingdoms, and overlooked warriors who shaped the subcontinent’s legacy of resistance. Expert interviews with royal descendants, historians, and cultural voices further deepen the storytelling, providing lived context and invaluable insights into these enduring legacies.
Ek Tha Raja with Akul Tripathi will be premiering exclusively on Discovery channel and discovery+ starting 7 August 2025, at 9 PM. The series will also stream on HBO Max in Southeast Asia.
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.
