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Rabindranath Tagore’s 78th death anniversary: EPIC celebrates his genius
MUMBAI: Seventy eight years ago, one of India’s favourite sons breathed his last. Rabindranath Tagore, a polymath of exceptional ability and deserved worldwide stature, is a celebrated writer, poet, philosopher and artist, who played a large part in reshaping Bengali literature, music, and art.
To commemorate his 78th death anniversary, EPIC On, EPIC Channel’s OTT platform, will be releasing its critically acclaimed show, ‘Stories By Rabindranath Tagore’, in Bengali. Directed by Anurag Basu, and featuring Radhika Apte, Amrita Puri, and Sumeet Vyas, amongst others, the 26-part series is an anthology of the Nobel laureate’s stories, including some of the most popular ones like Chokher Bali, Athithi, Detective, and Kabuliwala.
Also premiering on EPIC On is ‘The Art of Shantiniketan – Masters in the footsteps of Tagore’, a documentary film created by Anita Gurnani and Selina Sen. Winner of multiple awards, this film is a tribute to the legend, tracing the Tagore family’s efforts in setting up Vishwa Bharti, for incorporating nationalist sentiments and to acquaint the Indian youth with their culture and heritage, during the time of colonial rule.
Akul Tripathi, Head – Content & Programming, EPIC Channel, said, “It is our endeavour to showcase the best of India’s incredible heritage; and any depiction of India is incomplete without Tagore. His stories are already available in Hindi, English, and Tamil on EPIC On, and we are proud to have it in Bengali too. His work, as timeless as his vision of India, is beautifully depicted in ‘The Art of Shantiniketan’.”
Anita Gurnani, Producer, of The Art of Shantiniketan – Masters in the footsteps of Tagore said, “Shantiniketan means the abode of peace and was established by Tagore and his family as a way of educating India’s youth in a time of turmoil. This haven of the arts was a way for people to get in touch with their country’s culture when constant efforts to erode it were being carried out. We aim to present this symbol of hope and the art it holds to Indians today, as an attempt to display the timelessness of expressions in their art. We hope the viewers of EPIC Channel and EPIC ON enjoy the fruits of our labour and the generation of today will be able to appreciate the culture of Bengal, the ethos of Shantiniketan and Kala Bhavan.”
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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.
