Discovery Channel’s new programme, ‘Go India: Odisha’ will showcase the picturesque landscape, rich culture, age-old tradition and ancient monuments that provide a great narrative of the State.
From its artistic heritage to its magnificent monuments, from Hindu temples to Buddhist prayer wheels, from diverse flora and fauna to its iconic culture, from a unique dance form to a range of water sports – everything in Odisha has a story to tell. Hosted by former Miss India- International, Gurleen Grewal, Go India: Odisha will premiere on November 21 at 7 pm exclusively on the Discovery Channel.
On a quest to experience the culture of Odisha, GurleenGrewal met renowned Odissi dancer, Sujata Mohapatra, who belongs to the family of famous Guru KelucharanMohapatra and took a few quick lessons on dance steps and mudras of the Odissi dance form.
Gurleen also met national award-winning craftsmen, while she apprenticed as their assistant, and tried her hand at the beautiful ‘Pattachitra’ paintings along with world-famous ‘Ikkat’ weaving tradition. To experience the thriving Buddhist tradition in Odisha, Gurleen visited the largest Buddhist monastery, at Jirang in the Chandragiri district. While Gurleen was at the monastery, she got a chance to watch a stunning masked dance performance, leaving her completely mesmerised.
According to Gurleen, “Go India: Odisha is a captivating programme that explores the beauty and history of Odisha, a State which has so much to contribute to the Indian art and culture scene. It is a detailed travelogue that will offer viewers a journey to discover the unknown and unique attractions of the State.”
The programme will feature birder and photographer Panchami Ukil who took Gurleen for bird-watching at Chilika lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon. Viewers will get to spot some otherwise elusive, Irrawady dolphins at the Chilika and a chance to visit Bhitarkanika National Park where extremely rare birds and massive estuarine crocodile are spotted.