Credited with introducing several pioneering TV reality shows such as ‘Himachal’s Got Talent’, ‘Pahari Boss’, ‘Comedy Nights with Himachali Family’
DHARAMSHALA: Dr Naresh Kumar Koundal, a renowned name in the Himachal Pradesh entertainment industry, has been honoured with the prestigious Himalayan Shri Award for his exceptional contributions to the world of television and social development.
Dr Koundal is credited with introducing several pioneering TV reality shows in Himachal Pradesh, providing a platform for local talent to shine and making significant strides in promoting the state’s cultural heritage.
Dr Koundal’s most notable achievement is the creation of ‘Himachal’s Got Talent’, the first-ever TV reality show in the region. His vision continued with the launch of ‘Himalayan’s Got Talent’, a national TV show that has helped showcase the diverse talent of the region to a wider audience.
Additionally, shows such as ‘Pahari Boss’, ‘Comedy Nights with Himachali Family’ and ‘Miss Pahadan’ and ‘Mr Pahadi’ — the first TV pageant in North India, telecast on the Punjabi Hits channel — have also become household names, contributing significantly to the entertainment landscape.
The Himalayan Shri Award was presented to Dr Koundal in recognition of his tireless efforts in revolutionising the entertainment industry in Himachal Pradesh and for his work in creating platforms for aspiring talent.
Several celebrities, industry leaders and dignitaries, including former Cabinet Minister Anurag Thakur, WWE heavyweight champion the Great Khali, Bollywood singer Alamgir Khan and former Himachal Education Minister Govind Thakur, have praised his contributions.
Anurag Thakur applauded Dr Koundal for his initiative ‘Himalayan Pedia’, a notable project for preserving and promoting the region’s rich cultural and educational history.
The Great Khali also expressed his admiration, particularly for ‘Comedy Nights with Himachali Family’, a show that highlights the humour and traditions of Himachal Pradesh.
Dr Koundal’s significant work has extended beyond entertainment to sports, with the creation of ‘Himachal Premier League’ and ‘Himachal Pro Kabaddi League’, platforms designed to nurture the region’s sporting talent.
The Himachal Film Policy, which Govind Thakur credited to Dr. Koundal, also serves as an important milestone in the region’s cultural development. Dr Koundal’s initiative ‘The First Himachali Film and Entertainment Award’ was lauded by figures such as former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, SJVNL Chairman Nand Lal Sharma and Bollywood director Ashish R Mohan.
In response to the recognition, Dr Koundal humbly credited his success to the unwavering support of his team, including Seema Koundal, Dharm Singh, Dr Sushil, Dr DR Gautam, Sourav and Naveen Datyal, who have been integral to his journey.
