DD to do R Day-like coverage of International Yoga Day event

New Delhi, Jun 14: Public broadcaster Doordarshan has readied plans for a Republic Day-like coverage of International Yoga Day event to be held at Rajpath where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will also be present.

Doordarshan would be deploying more than 20 hi-definition cameras for the coverage of the event on June 21, declared as International Yoga Day by the UN, sources said.

While two cameras will be positioned atop India gate, there will be other cameras on jibs and another one on a several feet high hydraulic crane to give a bird's eye view of the entire Rajpath from India Gate to Vijay Chowk.

It is expected that a record breaking number of people would participate in collectively performing yogic asanas at the event.

Around 18 cameras will cover the main stage and also ensure an all-round coverage of the performances, sources said, adding the aim was to have a Republic Day-like coverage.

Several Outdoor Broadcast vans for live coverage will also be put into service. Sources say latest equipment will be used to ensure that the coverage is of international standards.

A special team comprising engineers, cinemtographers, scenic and property experts will be on duty for the live telecast of the event.

Most of these crew members have experience in the outdoor production of mega events like Independence Day, Republic Day, Commonwealth Games etc, sources added.

When contacted, Prasar Bharati Chairperson A Surya Prakash said, "It is a unique event and a matter of great pride and the public broadcaster would leave no stone unturned to ensure that the broadcast is of highest international standards."

The ministry of AYUSH would place several LED screens in the area for which Doordarshan may provide its signal. All India Radio (AIR) too has planned a series of programmes related to International Yoga Day and would also cover the Rajpath event live.

PTI