Mumbai: Anurag Thakur, the Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, set the stage ablaze in Mumbai as he launched the inaugural season of “Swaraj” on the popular OTT platform Amazon Prime. The event, held on Tuesday, was a celebration of India’s rich history and the valor of its unsung heroes.
In his address, Minister Thakur expressed profound pride in commemorating the sacrifices made by countless brave souls during India’s struggle for independence. He emphasized that “Swaraj” was conceptualized in line with the national campaign “Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav” initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Thakur underscored the significance of unveiling stories of courage and sacrifice that often remained obscured in the annals of history.
Detailing the series, Minister Thakur highlighted its portrayal of 75 episodes chronicling the untold tales of freedom fighters from every corner of the nation. He emphasized the series’ role in elucidating the concept of ‘Swaraj’ within the broader context of India’s colonial past. Thakur expressed optimism that such narratives would resonate with both national and international audiences, fostering a deeper understanding of India’s enduring spirit and its relentless pursuit of independence.
Furthermore, Minister Thakur emphasized the importance of embracing India’s rich historical legacy as a catalyst for shaping a brighter future. He reiterated the government’s commitment to advancing under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, particularly during the ongoing “Amrit Kaal” period.
Acknowledging the instrumental role of Prasar Bharati in realizing this endeavor, Minister Thakur commended Doordarshan and Akashvani for their efforts in channeling the nation’s sentiments through various impactful programs.
The Minister also unveiled a new 52-episode series titled “Sardar: The Game Changer” by Doordarshan, marking the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
Highlighting the government’s support for the Media & Entertainment sector, Minister Thakur outlined initiatives aimed at facilitating its growth on a global scale. He encouraged stakeholders to produce quality content in Indian languages, emphasizing the sector’s potential to position India as a ‘Content Hub of the World’.
Sushant Sreeram, Country Director of Prime Video, India, echoed these sentiments, affirming their commitment to showcasing India’s cultural heritage and bolstering its creative landscape.
Producer Abhimanyu Singh shared insights into “Swaraj,” portraying India’s journey from Vasco Da Gama’s arrival in 1498 to the attainment of independence in 1947. He emphasized the series’ tribute to India’s resilience amidst adversity.
The event featured vibrant performances showcasing India’s diverse cultural tapestry, underscoring the unwavering spirit of its freedom fighters.
“Swaraj” initially premiered on DD National on 14th August 2022, subsequently airing in nine regional languages across Doordarshan networks. The series, produced by Contiloe Pictures, renowned for its quality content, is now available on Amazon Prime Video, with the first season comprising 10 episodes, available in seven regional languages, along with Hindi and English subtitles for wider accessibility.
