The Ganges with Sue Perkins

The Ganges with Sue Perkins is a riveting British documentary presented by the talented Sue Perkins, renowned television presenter and comedian, famous for her hilarious stint in "The Great British Bake Off". Originally aired in 2017 on BBC One, this three-part documentary series follows Sue as she embarks on a courageous journey spanning the entire length of the River Ganges.

Sue Perkins takes us on an extraordinary expedition from the source of the majestic Ganges all the way across India to the vast Indian Ocean. The show is not simply another travel documentary and it does not shy away from discussions on deeply rooted Indian cultural, social, religious, and environmental issues. Throughout the episodes, Perkins meets people from all walks of life who heavily rely on the holy river and unveils their hopes, dreams, and daily life.

The three episodes of the series are packed full of interesting cultural insights, moving interactions, and thought-provoking observances. They navigate the viewer through a complex fusion of ancient customs and modernity and examine what it means to be living in contemporary India. However, it's not just about the travel. Sue Perkins is keen on understanding the intense spiritual, ecological, and cultural importance the Ganges holds for its people. Through her hospitable hosts, she wishes to reveal the true spirit of India and its population of over a billion people.

In this passion-filled journey, the byways to the River Ganges unravel the tale of a land entrancingly diverse with rich heritage and culture, yet grappling with the existential crisis of pollution and the constant tug-of-war between tradition and progression. Sue Perkins is a wonderful narrator who takes this challenge in her stride and manages to tackle them with humor, empathy, and curiosity that strike the right balance between respect for the culture and a quest for knowledge. Whether she’s bargaining in local markets, joining in traditional festivities, or confronting the harsh realities of local communities, Sue Perkins constantly keeps viewers engaged with her infectious enthusiasm and compassion.

The Ganges with Sue Perkins manages to blend arduous travel through unfamiliar terrain with strikingly hard-hitting etc human element. The series lifts the lid on old-worldly traditions while also highlighting the formidable challenges India is battling with. It's an immersive travelogue with testing moments, wild celebrations, emotional experiences, and a lot of learning about a culture quite different from the West. It's an account of India unfiltered, raw, and simply irresistible.

This show, being an incisive travelogue, stands apart from the regular tourist routes and explores the heart of India in all its vibrancy, chaos, and charm. It offers an introspective look at this enigmatic and enchanting country, famous for its contrasts that co-exist: past with the present, tradition with modernity, and faith with reality. The series provides viewers a chance to witness these enchanting paradoxes of India, from the comfort of their own homes, through the eyes and words of Sue Perkins.

With her signature wit, warmth and candor, Perkins conjures up a vivid and compelling narrative that pulls viewers into the world she is exploring. This is not a guide for what to do and where to eat should one travel to India. Instead, it’s a compelling story about the real India, the real Indian people, and their indomitable spirit of survival, love, joy, faith, and industry, skipping the frills of exotic locations.

As a viewer, you are pushed to ponder on the dichotomies and diversities of India, as Sue walks you through every facet of its existence. The Ganges with Sue Perkins is a spell-binding, insightful, and riveting watch that illuminates an India that is both desperately saddening and life-affirmingly uplifting. It is a remarkable mix of travel, culture, exploration, and personal growth that unwraps India in all its tumultuous, bewildering, delighting glory.