|
The channel sources claim that almost 1600 films were received
when they invited entries for specials. According to the channel,
the criteria for choosing were depth and quality of the research
done as well as the entertainment value that the programme had.
Therefore, it was important that the filmmakers take a fresh and
invigorating approach toward their subject matters.
One of the specials Akash Yodha from Kunal Verma explores
the role of the Indian Air Force during the Kargil war. Another
special Khallsa is is scheduled to air on the occasion of
Guru Nanak Jayanti. Other subjects will include the Kumbh Mela,
Indian railways with a special emphasis on Darjeeling.
Indiantelevision.com spoke to a channel spokesperson this morning
on the sidelines of a screening of Nefertiti Revealed., which
will premiere on 7 September. In order to create awareness and generate
curiosity among Indians, about the special on the famous Egyptian
queen, front-page ads will appear not just in national but also
in regional dailies.
The channel has also held parties for the media fraternity in Bangalore,
Delhi and Mumbai. SMS alerts and mailers were also sent to reinforce
the message.
As far as the filmmakers whose work was chosen was concerned, the
spokesperson hinted that while there was a wealth of content that
had been generated through the endeavour the channel might consider
commissioning them projects in the near future.
"In November, we will have a major global special World Wedding
Day. A marriage in South India will feature. The Discovery crew
were in Bangalore in May for over a week shooting the different
ceremonies that precede a marriage. Our aim as same as was withWorld
Birthday's , to show the thread of commonality in the midst
of diverse cultures and traditions" said the spokesperson. "
Other countries that will feature include Vietnam, Italy, Brazil,
Rwanda and New Zealand."
The spokesperson added that in October a series of specials under
the brand Extreme Engineering Challenges would air. The specials
will focus on the most complex and demanding of engineering tasks
throughout the globe.
"Our focus on India has paid off handsomely. For instance the two-part
episode Between Two Worlds that aired on 26 July saw us become
the highest rated international channel for that slot on that day.
We managed to beat the likes of Star Movies, HBO. The special dealt
with the life of Ravi Shankar and the different phases he went through"
the spokesperson added.
The Nefertiti documentary grippingly recalls the days of the queen
who would later become a Pharaoh. The scientific elements are lucid
and fortunately not boring for the layperson. The story traces the
efforts of Dr Joanne Fletcher to identify the mummy she believes
is the queen and this is interspersed with stunning footage of actors
playing the queen and her family. The parts depicting the conflict
between the queen and the Egyptian high priests, which would ultimately
lead to Nefertiti's downfall are particularly enthralling and eerie
at the same time.
|
