MUMBAI: Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific launched Discovery HD a 24-hour channel in India. Broadcast in English, Discovery HD is currently available on Sun Direct.
Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific executive vice president and managing director Tom Keaveny said, “I am delighted to announce the launch of Discovery HD in India, one of the world’s most vibrant media markets. As the leading pioneer in the HD arena, today’s launch underscores Discovery’s enduring commitment to offering high-quality content and services that serve the needs of both affiliates and advertisers while enhancing the consumer viewing experience.”
Discovery HD will bring audiences closer to their world with breathtaking imagery and expansive detail, featuring programming on the wonders of the world ranging from culture, science, and natural history to travel and lifestyle themes. Creating an audio and visual experience that is richer, deeper and more panoramic than standard definition viewing, the new high-definition programming will be offered in 1080i, along with 5.1 surround sound, lending itself perfectly to the type of rich, spectacular images and compelling storytelling for which Discovery is renowned.
Discovery Networks Asia Pacific senior vice president and general manager India Rahul Johri said, “The emergence and growth of digitisation in India is critically dependent on the broadcasters’ competence to offer differentiated, credible and entertaining content. Discovery HD brings the network’s thrilling factual content to life – sound effects are more realistic, images larger than life and situations more gripping than ever before.”
Sun Direct chief operating officer Tony D’Silva commented, "Sun Direct is immensely proud to be the first DTH provider in India to showcase high definition content to its viewers. Discovery HD’s worldwide reputation, global programming repertoire and production quality will surely add value to our HD product offering.”
The launch of Discovery HD expands Discovery’s portfolio in India to six networks. Discovery broadcasts five other networks in India including Discovery Channel, Discovery Travel & Living, and Animal Planet. The three networks reach 118 million cumulative subscribers in India with programming customised in English, Hindi and Tamil. The company recently launched two additional networks in January 2010 – Discovery Science and Discovery Turbo. Discovery HD will be available on Sun Direct channel no. 965.
