Times Now Navbharat launches 'DHURANDAR' with Amish Devgan from Nov 2
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Times Now Navbharat, the Hindi news channel of Times Network, is set to launch a new prime-time debate show titled 'DHURANDAR – Amish Devgan Ke Saath' on 2 November 2026. The programme will air every weeknight at 6:50 pm and will be anchored by Amish Devgan, Managing Editor of Times Now Navbharat, who brings over two decades of experience across print, television, business journalism, and editorial leadership.
What the Show Promises
'DHURANDAR' — the name roughly translates to 'sharpshooter' or 'powerful force' — is designed to go beyond headline reporting. The show will put the day's most consequential developments under a spotlight through sharp questioning, intense face-offs, and competing perspectives. Political representatives, key stakeholders, and influential voices are expected to feature as guests in structured debates.
The channel's stated aim is to examine competing narratives, demand accountability from those in power, and encourage meaningful public discourse on issues of national importance. In format terms, it targets an appointment-viewing slot in the early-evening news cycle — a period that has seen intensifying competition among Hindi news channels.
Amish Devgan's Role and Background
Amish Devgan is widely recognised for his hard-hitting anchoring style. His editorial career has spanned reporting, anchoring, business journalism, and senior management, giving him a cross-platform profile that the channel is clearly banking on to drive viewership. As Managing Editor, Devgan is positioned not just as a host but as the editorial face of this new format.
Where It Fits in the Hindi News Landscape
The launch reinforces Times Now Navbharat's push to carve out a distinctive identity in a crowded Hindi news market. Channels including Aaj Tak, India TV, and NDTV India have long dominated prime-time debate slots, making the 6:50 pm window a strategic entry point rather than a direct clash with the conventional 9 pm flagship debates. This comes amid broader consolidation and format experimentation across the Hindi news genre.
Times Network's Reach and Context
Times Network, part of The Times Group, reportedly reaches over 200 million urban affluent viewers in India and is available in more than 100 countries. Its portfolio includes Times Now, ET Now, Mirror Now, Times Now Navbharat, and ET Now Swadesh, alongside entertainment and digital platforms. 'DHURANDAR' is the network's latest bid to deepen its Hindi-language footprint and connect with audiences across the country.
With the show set to debut on 2 November 2026, all eyes will be on whether its early-evening positioning and Devgan's editorial approach can carve a loyal viewership in one of India's most competitive broadcast segments.