The entire nation has been abuzz over the past two days after it was revealed that 'Superstar' Rajinikanth was going to appear on the Discovery Channel TV show, Into The Wild with Bear Grylls. Rajinikanth's appearance on Into The Wild with Bear Grylls will mark his TV debut after enchanting fans over 43 years since he made his entry in cinema. The iconic veteran actor is fresh off the success of his latest film, Darbar and is at present filming for his upcoming, Thalaivar 168, coming out most likely as an Ayudha Pooja holidays treat in October this year. 

After Prime Minster Narenda Modi's appearance in the first episode of Man Vs Wild, which was shot in India, Discovery's upcoming new format series, Into The Wild with Bear Grylls will feature Rajinikanth in its first episode being produced by The Natural Studios and Banijay Asia. Rajinikanth will be joining the world's most recognizable face of survival and outdoor adventure, Bear Grylls, in the show, which is an innovative new format inspired by Man Vs Wild. Into The Wild with Bear Grylls is produced for Discovery Communications India by The Natural Studios and Banijay Asia, where Bear Grylls, Delbert Shoopman and Deepak Dhar are Executive Producers.

Last year, ‘Man Vs Wild with Bear Grylls & PM Modi’ episode disrupted the Indian media landscape, establishing itself as the TV event of the year. Beyond Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bear Grylls has also hosted prominent celebrities in the past such as then sitting American President Barack Obama, Kate Winslet, Roger Federer, Julia Roberts and many more.

“Into The Wild is a truly unique show – at one level it offers adrenaline pumping action, while at another, the show lends itself beautifully to driving a specific purpose for the larger good of society. So, when, officials from Discovery, a brand globally respected for offering inspiring real-life entertainment, approached me, I agreed to finally make my debut on TV after more than four decades of Cinema. Kavithalayaa, the iconic Production house founded by my guru, K. Balachander also played a significant role,” said, Rajinikanth. “Bear Grylls has tested the survival skills of multiple celebrity guests, pushing them to their limits; I look forward to the survival challenge in the mesmerizing wilderness of India.”

Talking about raising awareness about water conservation, Rajinikanth, said, “Every Indian will need to come forward and contribute in conserving water; this war has to be led at all levels including government, community as well as on the individual front. I believe this show on Discovery is a perfect platform to take the message of conserving water to every home across the country." Likewise, Bear Grylls opened up saying, "Our team is all very excited to work closely with Thalaiva! Much more than a cine star, Rajinikanth is a phenomenon who has captivated audiences across the world with his on-screen and off-screen work. He has always shown such energy and flair in all he does and he will need that courage and determination again on our journey into the beautiful wilds of India.”

“The combination of Rajinikanth in a never seen before avatar and Bear Grylls’ edge of the seat challenges, will make the show a must watch for every Indian,” said, Megha Tata, Managing Director – South Asia, Discovery. “We have decided to give a layer of purpose to each episode of the newly commissioned series, Into The Wild with Bear Grylls, as we aim to contribute to humanity in our unique way. Last year, the show featuring PM Modi, generated much desired attention on conservation of Wildlife; we are confident that the forthcoming episode featuring Rajinikanth will sensitize each one of us about conservation of water.”