Article on Vani Bhojan ( Deivamagal Satya )

SHOWBIZ: Indian shows go high-definition

ASTRO'S new 24-hour Tamil HD channel Vinmeen HD (channel 231) will make its debut on Oct 18. It is the first 24-hour Tamil channel in HD (high denifition) in Southeast Asia  for English-speaking Indian viewers.

Vinmeen HD offers a range of new programmes including reality shows, travels and magic shows, fitness and lifestyle programmes, documentaries, celebrity cooking shows, classical carnatic and local productions as well as blockbuster movies.

WIDE RANGE
Among these is Therintha Kovil Theriyatha Puranam, a historical show with a religious theme which sees host Reneetha visiting temples in Tamil Nadu.

Others are Indian literature show Ramayanam, produced for the first time in HD, and Naan Thaan Vallavar, the first reality show in a Tamil channel featuring challenging tasks similar to Fear Factor and Amazing Race. It is hosted by local artiste Shamini.

Bollywood actress Bipasha Basu guides viewers in Bipasha Basu Aerobics which combines dance and aerobics in a specially tailored calorie-burning routine while Vani Bhojan of Sun TV's Deiva Magal series
takes on the role of yoga instructor in Yoga Sense.

Other highlights include magic show Irukku Anal Illai hosted by magician Hassan, the paranormal documentary Fear Files, luxury car show Moto Show, healthy cooking show hosted by Brindha (of Vaanavil Super Star) titled Parampariya Samayal and a travel show around India hosted by Magen titled, Iyarkai Thedi 3.

MORE AVENUES
Astro subscribers can watch selected programmes on Astro-On-The-Go and Video on Demand " a system which allows you to select and watch video content whenever you want.

During the official launch at Wisma Bentley Music, Mutiara Damansara recently, senior vice president of content management group Astro, Dr Rajamani Chellamuthu said: "We've been seeing strong demand for HD content from our Indian subscribers and we are excited to be a part of this breakthrough with the introduction of Vinmeen HD.

"Vinmeen HD will provide wholesome entertainment for the entire family in stunning HD experience."

Other guests who attended the launch included Astro's head of Indian language business Murugiah Vellay, channel manager Hemalatha Ramakrishnan, senior vice president broadcast operations Rohaizad Mohamed, South Indian celebrities Prasanna and Sneha, as well as local artistes.

Vinmeen HD is included in Astro Super Pack 2 (RM125) or Astro Value Pack 2, as well as Namma Pack (RM75) at no additional cost.