Factual
MCGM partners with Animal Planet in its endeavour to sensitize citizens of Mumbai, especially children, about wildlife
MUMBAI: Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM) has tied up with India’s no 1 wildlife channel Animal Planet to sensitize citizens of Mumbai, especially children, about the importance of wildlife. In a first-of-its-kind initiative, MCGM will launch its 3D Theater located inside V.J.B. Udyan & Zoo, powered with world class content from Animal Planet, starting February 01, 2019. The entry to the theatre will be free for students from MCGM schools; there will be a nominal fee of Rs. 50 for non-MCGM school students/ individuals.
V.J.B. Udyan & Zoo is the first zoo in the country to launch a theatre inside its premises. The soon to be launched cinema with a seating capacity of more than 200 will showcase 4 shows a day. The first show will start at 11:00 hours while the last show will be screened at 16:00 hrs every day. V.J.B. Udyan & Zoo attracts more than 15,000 individuals on a week day while regular weekend entries crosses 30,000. The launch of a new theatre, powered by marquee content from Animal Planet, will give a tremendous boost to the popularity of the Zoo along with sensitizing visitors about wildlife.
Hon’ble Mayor, Shri Vishwanath Mahadeshwar, said, “Following the success of MCGM’s initiative with respect to the Humboldt Penguin Gallery at the Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan & Zoo which has garnered wide ranging interest from the citizens of Mumbai, we are pleased to announce this one of a kind initiative in which MCGM is tying up with Discovery Communications India to bring exciting documentaries from their wildlife channel Animal Planet which will be screened exclusively for the visitors of the zoo. Our aim, through this entertainment led initiative, is to make every Mumbaikar sensitive about the importance of wild life.”
Speaking on the occasion, Ajoy Mehta, Municipal Commissioner, MCGM, said, “The state of art theater at V.J.B. Udyan & Zoo was conceptualized because we wanted to give a new-age dimension of learning led entertainment; with a larger cause of educating the young generation of India about the importance of wild life. We are delighted that Animal Planet has joined hands with us in this unique initiative. Initially, we are starting off with a line-up of 5 shows which will be changed at regular intervals to keep the audiences engaged.”
“We expect natural traction for the soon to be launched theatre. In addition, we will also launch an aggressive school reach out campaign inviting students from MCGM schools to experience the world class theatre,” added Municipal Commissioner Ajoy Mehta.
Zulfia Waris, Vice President, Premium & Digital networks, Discovery Communications India said, “It is an honor for us to work along with MCGM in sensitizing citizens of Mumbai, especially children, about wild life. The initial line-up of documentaries offered to the V.J.B. Udyan & Zoo theatre are entertaining and at the same time thought provoking – emerging from the fascinating intersection of the animal, human and natural worlds. We are confident that this unique initiative will go a long way in engaging and awakening viewers to the need for animal welfare and conservation.”
Animal Planet’s marquee documentaries like ‘Jawai: India’s Leopard Hills’, ‘African Wild’, ‘Mysterious Wilds Of India’, ‘Extinct Or Alive’ and ‘Speed Of Life’ are being be showcased at Mumbai Zoo Theater.
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.
