April 4 : Prepare for the ultimate magic adventure as Nat Geo’s upcoming series ‘DAVID BLAINE DO NOT ATTEMPT’ gears up to premiere on April 6, Sundays, 8 PM on the National Geographic Channel. Produced by Brian Grazer and Ron Howard’s award-winning Imagine Documentaries (‘Genius’ anthology series, ‘Rebuilding Paradise,’ ‘Jim Henson Idea Man’), this six-part series follows world-renowned magician and endurance artist David Blaine exploring the world through the lens of magic. David will be seen taking viewers on a fascinating cultural exchange and a jaw-dropping journey through extraordinary cultures, where he meets performers and masters — kindred spirits who inspire and share with him exceptional skills (and secrets) — in India, Brazil, Southeast Asia, the Arctic Circle, South Africa, and Japan.

 

Widely recognized for his epic stunts and illusions, this series also reveals a surprising and more personal side to David, which has rarely been seen before – through intimate documentary storytelling. Traveling through the spiritual centers of India to the urban and natural jungles of Brazil, from the unforgiving ice of the Arctic Circle to the thriving cultural heart of South Africa, David seeks out real feats of magic at the intersection of physical and mental strength performed by extraordinary people. In each episode, David immerses himself in the cultures, histories, and hidden rituals that make these astonishing talents possible. He learns and attempts – so you don’t have to – while shining a light on a side of magic few have ever seen.

“I’m discovering incredible people with unbelievable talents, pushing the limits of what’s possible. It’s been a privilege to learn from them. As a magician, I’m in awe of their abilities because, for me, the most magical moments aren’t tricks but human potential realized,” said David Blaine.

“National Geographic’s legacy of innovative storytelling shines brightly in this series, with India’s rich heritage taking center stage in the premiere episode. Our ancient traditions – passed down through generations – offer a powerful glimpse into the extraordinary, connecting Indian audiences to Nat Geo’s global narrative,” said a National Geographic India spokesperson. “It is truly captivating to witness David Blaine immerse himself in the art of Indian magic, unraveling its mysteries and showcasing its timeless allure,” she added.

From sword swallowing to surviving venomous creature stings, and from feats of athleticism to kissing king cobras, ‘DAVID BLAINE DO NOT ATTEMPT’ uncovers the rituals, preparation and strength that take magic beyond mere illusion. The National Geographic series is a celebration of pushing boundaries safely and responsibly, rooted in years of training, preparation and a process of refinement. Viewers are reminded that professionals do all the feats shown in the series with safety teams to prevent any accidents. None of the activities from the series should ever be practiced; the series title provides instructions to viewers for a reason: DO NOT ATTEMPT.

This series contains content that may be disturbing to some viewers. All acts performed are inherently dangerous and were done under strict supervision. They should not be attempted. Viewer discretion is advised.

 Episodes include the following:

• “India” – Premieres April 6

Growing up, David Blaine was fascinated by images from India of extraordinary physical feats. This evolved into a life-long obsession with real acts that are so extreme they look like magic. Using secrets passed down over hundreds of years, people still perform these acts today. In India, David unearths these modern practitioners to explore how belief and performance intersect to make magic.

• “Arctic Circle” – Premieres April 13

In the stunning frozen landscape of the Arctic Circle, David Blaine explores humanity’s curiously extreme ability to endure freezing temperatures. He meets and learns from people who reach beyond their limits to transform barriers into new frontiers and embody a sense of resilience, perseverance and grit that is unique to the region.

•  “South Africa” – Premieres April 20

In a nation once defined by apartheid, David embarks on an epic adventure in South Africa, uncovering the magic of its diverse cultures and wildlife that is reshaping perceptions and dismantling barriers in this dynamic country.

• “Japan” – Premieres April 27

From perfectly punctual bullet trains to meticulously assembled pieces of sushi, Japan is renowned for its craftsmanship, artistry and commitment to excellence in all endeavors. In Japan, David explores the concept of mastery by meeting with people who spend a lifetime refining a single skill.

• “Brazil” – Premieres May 4

In Brazil, David Blaine seeks inspiration by immersing himself in his hosts’ vibrant energy, passion and spontaneity. The exceptional daredevils, artists, explorers and athletes he encounters unite to help him bring an audacious feat to life that’s lingered in his dreams for years.

• “Southeast Asia” – Premieres May 11

In Southeast Asia, David Blaine explores fascinating relationships with wildlife and how pain endurance can transform fear into magic. He meets practitioners who appear impenetrable by sharp objects and performers who can endure the stings of venomous creatures. David unpacks how people exploit fear in order to create wonder.

DAVID BLAINE DO NOT ATTEMPT is produced by Imagine Documentaries for National Geographic. Executive producers are Brian Grazer, Ron Howard, David Blaine, Sara Bernstein, Justin Wilkes, Christopher St. John, Matthew Akers, Erica Sashin and Toby Oppenheimer. Abigail Harper is co-executive producer. For National Geographic, Charlie Parsons is senior vice president of Development, Bengt Anderson is executive producer and senior vice president of Unscripted Production, and Tom McDonald is executive vice president of Global Factual and Unscripted Content.

1st April 2025; National: JioHotstar continues to revolutionize India’s live streaming experience by making it more inclusive and accessible, connecting millions and bridging the gap between audiences and their favorite events. Following the tremendous success of Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres and Mahashivratri: The Divine Night livestream, which captivated millions, the platform is now set to bring the festivities of Ram Navami to viewers with a special live stream from Ayodhya on 6th April, from 8AM to 1PM. The celebrations will feature the legendary Padma Vibhushan Shri. Amitabh Bachchan narrating evocative stories of the Ram Katha. Combining community celebrations with technology, the livestream reinforces JioHotstar’s commitment to enhancing accessibility, bringing cultural moments closer to millions, and ensuring an unforgettable experience.

At the heart of this momentous occasion, Padma Vibhushan Shri. Amitabh Bachchan will share timeless wisdom and reflections on Lord Ram’s values, offering a celebration of our cultural heritage and inspiring a forward-looking vision for India. The festivities will capture the joy and reverence of Lord Ram’s birth and journey, depicting the seven kands of the Ramayana, all while streaming live from the heart of Ram Janmabhoomi to spiritually uplift viewers with his legacy. Shri. Amitabh Bachchan will also host an interactive session with kids, showcasing select stories and couplets of the kands in an engaging and relatable manner. From a special pooja performed at Ayodhya, sacred rituals across temples, to soul-stirring LIVE aartis from Bhadrachalam, Panchvati, Chitrakoot and Ayodhya, to devotional bhajans, and mesmerizing cultural performances by revered artists including Kailash Kher and Malini Awasthi, the livestream will evoke a collective sense of devotion and togetherness.

Speaking on the initiative, a JioHotstar spokesperson stated, “Our live streaming capabilities have enabled us to bring culturally significant experiences to viewers across India. The overwhelming success of events from live sports to Coldplay – Live from Ahmedabad to the 14-hour livestream of the recent Mahashivratri: The Divine Night has inspired us to push boundaries and offer unparalleled experiences to Indian consumers. Ram Navami is a deeply revered occasion in our country, and we’re honored to bring its sacred celebrations to millions in every corner of the country. With the legend himself, Shri Amitabh Bachchan narrating Lord Ram’s journey, this experience promises to evoke profound emotions on this auspicious occasion.”

Padma Vibhushan Shri. Amitabh Bachchan said, “To be part of such a sacred occasion is an honor of a lifetime. Ram Navami is more than a festival—it is a moment of deep reflection, a time to embrace the ideals of dharma, devotion, and righteousness that Lord Ram personified. Through JioHotstar, we are blessed with the power of technology to transcend distances, uniting hearts across the nation in an unprecedented celebration of faith, culture, and spirituality.”

With initiatives like these, JioHotstar is unlocking Infinite Possibilities, enabling viewers across the nation to experience the beauty of festivities from the comfort of their homes. By curating live-stream events like Coldplay, Mahashivratri, and Ram Navami, the platform celebrates the nation’s rich heritage in a manner that is immersive and deeply engaging.

Celebrate India’s rich cultural heritage through the power of digital devotion, with a special livestream on 6th April, only on JioHotstar