CNN launches 'Destination India' to explore the country

CNN is launching a week full of special coverage titled ‘Destination India’. From architectural marvels to time-honoured crafts and religious celebrations, CNN's 'Destination India' delves into the distinctive sights and sounds of India this month.

There will be nine episodes in the series that will telecast – March 24 at 6.30 pm and 9 pm, March 25 at 1 am and 6 am, March 26 at 9 am, March 27 at 3 pm, March 28 at 9 am and 2 pm and April 5 at 2 pm.

Highlights of the 30-minute programme include:

The art of puppetry in Rajasthan

No village fair or festival in Rajasthan would be complete without Kathputli: an ancient art of puppetry and one of the oldest forms of entertainment in native Rajasthan. Each puppet is controlled by strings and, in true Rajasthan style, adorned in vibrant costumes. CNN travels to Jaisalmer to meet a local family of puppet makers – craftsmen who have inherited their skill from their ancestors. Learn how each doll is designed and crafted; and look at how the wooden dolls come to life in a traditional puppet show.

Varanasi textiles

India's handmade textiles have a long and rich history. Sumptuous and ornate fabrics were popular in the courts of kings and rulers, and for centuries religious worship has found expression through sacred cloths. The gayasar brocades, for example, are a part of many Buddhist rituals and Varanasi is known for producing some of the finest and intricate fabrics. ‘Destination India’ visits one of the city's silk-weaving workshops to explore this complex craft.

Holi celebrations

CNN travels to Varanasi, the sacred city on the banks of the Ganga, to join in the celebrations of Holi. Revellers across the country celebrate the arrival of spring by throwing coloured powder, or gulal, at each other. It's a festival steeped in tradition and religious symbolism; and ‘Destination India’ experiences it all through the eyes of locals.

Chandigarh: India's modernist city

Built to replace the Punjabi capital of Lahore after the 1947 partition, Chandigarh was conceived by Le Corbusier, the Swiss-born master of modern architecture. The crowded streets and chaos typical of many Indian cities are replaced by an orderly grid system and broad boulevards. CNN gains exclusive access to the Capitol Complex, which in 2016 was awarded World Heritage status by UNESCO, and meets the team of architects and engineers who have been tasked with renovating the complex.

Delhi's music scene

As more artists are keen to shake up India's music industry, in the capital New Delhi, neighbourhoods like Hauz Khas are providing a platform to many new genres, transforming the city's music landscape. CNN delves into Delhi's music scene and nightlife with local rapper Prabh Deep, who has taken the Indian hip-hop scene by storm.

Media contact:

Deepa Sridhar

Deepa.Sridhar@turner.com

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