Factual
Taj Mahal, Eiffel etc: ‘Monumental Challenge’ on Sony BBC Earth starts on 23 Oct
MUMBAI: Towering over cities and landscapes, six unofficial national symbols get a makeover. Watch as Big Ben, Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Eiffel Tower, the Santiago de Compostela, the Bund and the Taj Mahal are restored to their full splendour in this series, Monumental Challenge on Sony BBC Earth starting 23 October 2017, Mon-Fri at 8 pm.
In this series, viewers will have access inside these monuments and get to meet the army of people who keep these landmarks in tip-top condition. These include emergency repair workers, expansion visionaries, and event planners for VIP clients. Combining stunning footage, impressive CGI, riveting historical background and lots of lively characters, Monumental Challenge gives fresh insight into the worlds’ most iconic landmarks – revealing the highs and lows of making these monuments great again.
The series has a special episode featuring the seventh wonder of the world, the mystic Taj Mahal in India. The herculean task at hand is to give a facelift to this 400-year-old monument. This is a 21st century story about a 17th century fairy tale palace in a state of disrepair where the heroes are scientists and archaeologists who face daily battles against modern day evils – acid rain and marble cancer, diesel fumes and other poisonous gases – eating away at its 400-year old walls. Is this a challenge just too monumental or do these behind the scene magicians work their wand through all the despair?
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.
