Mumbai, Jun 20 (IANS): In a move to highlight the journeys of some of India's best athletes as they train with the aim to bring home Gold at Tokyo 2020, the Infotainment channel EPIC brings alive stories of the players on June 23 -- International Olympic Day.
The initiative has garnered appreciation from many sporting personalities from India.
The 14-part series is hosted by former India cricketer Virender Sehwag and chronicles the journey of some of India's top athletes.
The show will give the audiences a close and personal look at training sessions, diets, exercises, aspirations, and the overall personal and professional struggle of wrestler Vinesh Phogat, Shot Put player Om Prakash Singh Karhana, Judoka Avtar Singh, freestyle wrestler and Olympic medallist Sakshi Mallik.
Sprinter Dutee Chand, Rower Dattu Bhokanal, six time Olympian and the first Indian to compete in Luge at the Winter Olympic Games Shiva Keshavan, Paralympian Swimmer Suyash Jadhav, Para-badminton champion Sanjeev Kumar, Shooter Ayonika Paul, Javelin thrower Annu Rani, Badminton Player Sai Praneeth, Boxer Shiva Thapa and Freestyle Wrestle Bajrang Punia will also feature in the show.
Speaking about this special programme, sprinter Dutee Chand said: "It is an honour for any athlete to represent their country at the Olympics, where the entire world is watching. I am glad there is a platform showcasing our journey, and am hoping this show will inspire more athletes to come forward and join us at the Olympics. I hope people enjoy this unique programme on International Olympic Day."
Meanwhile, host of the programme, Sehwag said: "People often know the star, but they don't know the hard work athletes put in to win the accolades. I am inspired by the life of athletes - the struggle and the determination that drives them and I hope through this programme others are also equally inspired."
Shot Put player Om Prakash also appreciated the effort and said it was a perfect way to celebrate our athletic superstars and highlight the immense pride they bring us through their hard work and dedication.
EPIC will screen back-to-back episodes of the special show on the Olympians -- 'Umeed India'.