MUMBAI: EPIC TV - India’s only Hindi language, Indian Infotainment channel celebrates International Olympic Day with an exclusive unveiling of the first look of the Umeed India book published by Rupa Publications and based on its popular series, of the same name hosted by ace cricketer Virender Sehwag.

Celebrated on June 23 every year, International Olympic Day aims to promote participation in sports across the globe and unite people regardless of age, gender, or athletic ability.  Also extending this initiative on-air, EPIC has scheduled a day-long showcase of Umeed India. Launched in 2017, Umeed India chronicles ground-breaking stories of Indians aiming for glory at Olympics 2020. Presented by the swashbuckling cricketer and debutant television host, Virender Sehwag, Umeed India travels across the country unearthing inspiring journeys and on-going struggles of 13 sport-stars including freestyle wrestler and Olympic medallist Sakshi Malik, para-Olympian swimmer Suyash Jadhav, shot-put player Om Prakash Karhana, sprinter Dutee Chand, judoka Avtar Singh, wrestler Vinesh Phogat, rower Dattu Bhokanal, among others who are vying for glory at Olympics 2020.

Speaking about book launch, Virender Sehwag said, “I am happy to announce the launch of the Umeed India book. The show aimed at giving an impetus to sports and highlighting the struggles and achievements of Indian sportsmen who truly deserve national recognition and support. I am confident that the book will further this mission and serve as inspiration to generations of budding sportspersons.”

Also commenting on these developments, Aditya Pittie, Managing Director, EPIC TV, said, At EPIC we are committed to taking the stories we tell to larger audiences using every media at our disposal, and books are the original storytellers. The stories of our athletes and their perseverance to win gold and glory are to be cherished and we are glad to have had the opportunity to champion this effort along with one of India’s most celebrated sportsperson – Virender Sehwag.”

Sharing his views on the book, para-Olympian swimmer Suyash Jadhav, who also featured on the show said, “Sportspersons need constant motivation and support to keep doing their best at their game, especially on a major international platform such as the Olympics. The Umeed India book will certainly inspire youngsters in the country to give their best while focusing on the resources available to them to achieve their goals.”

Indian javelin thrower, Annu Rani also commented, “An initiative such as the Umeed India book will help budding sportspersons, even those in remote areas, to understand what it takes to make it big in the world of sport and constantly better themselves to represent India on an international sporting platform and make their dream come true.”