Category: ENTERTAINMENT

Mumbai, Dec 11 (IANS) Indian auteur Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s OTT debut series ‘Heeramandi – The Diamond Bazaar’ has emerged as the only Indian show on Google’s most searched shows globally in 2024.

While many international shows made their place in the top positions of Google trends, it’s remarkable to see Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s grand Netflix period drama ‘Heeramandi’ securing the fourth position on the list. Moreover, while international conversations like the US elections, and climate events created major buzz, ‘Heeramandi’ has managed to make its place in this list.

The show features majestic visuals, captivating music, compelling narrative, and outstanding performances, and is infused with SLB’s signature opulent storytelling.

The series stars Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Sharmin Segal, Sanjeeda Sheikh along with Taha Shah Badussha.

Taha, who essays the role of Nawab Tajdar Baloch in the series, had earlier shared that he auditioned for 15 months to land a part in the show.

Speaking about his audition, he earlier shared in a statement, “Having dreamt of working with the greats, Sanjay Leela Bhansali sat right at the top of my list. It took me fifteen months of relentless auditions for his show, and finally, the opportunity arrived—a mere 3-day role, but I was grateful that I would get a chance to receive his guidance. Meeting him was surreal, and it was then that he surprised me, suggesting a screen test for a more significant character, Tajdar’s best friend”.

The OTT series explores the cultural reality of Heeramandi, a dazzling district, through the stories of courtesans and their patrons set against the tumultuous backdrop of the Indian freedom struggle of the 1940s.

It stands as a true masterpiece, marking Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s remarkable debut in the digital realm and a significant milestone in his illustrious career.

‘Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar’ is an eight-part series streaming on Netflix. The show is set to return with second season.

–IANS

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Mumbai, Dec 11 (IANS) Bollywood actress Karisma Kapoor, who is known for ‘Andaz Apna Apna’, ‘Coolie No.1’, ‘Raja Hindustani’ and others, recently met PM Narendra Modi in Delhi with her family, and received a signed autograph from the PM for her children.

On Wednesday, the actress took to her Instagram, and shared the pictures from the Kapoor family’s meeting with the PM. The family, which is considered the first film dynasty of Hindi cinema, met with PM Modi ahead of the centenary of the family’s patriarch Raj Kapoor, who is widely considered one of the most influential filmmakers and actors in Indian cinema.

Sharing the pictures, Karisma wrote the same caption as her sister Kareena Kapoor Khan. She wrote, “We are deeply humbled and honored to have been invited by the Honourable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, to commemorate the extraordinary life and legacy of our grandfather, the legendary Raj Kapoor. Thank you Shri Modi ji for such a special afternoon. Your warmth, attention, and support in celebrating this milestone meant the world to us”.

“As we celebrate 100 glorious years of Dadaji’s artistry, vision, and contribution to Indian cinema, we honour the timeless impact of his legacy, which continues to inspire us and generations to come. We are proud to showcase his iconic films and remember the impact he had on Indian cinema with the ‘Raj Kapoor 100 Film Festival’. Dec 13-15, 2024 | 10 films | 40 cities | 135 cinemas. #100YearsOfRajKapoor “, she added.

December 14, 2024 marks the centenary of Raj Kapoor. He was born in Peshawar (present day Pakistan), and was the eldest son of actor Prithviraj Kapoor. Raj Kapoor starred in and produced many films for which he received multiple accolades, including three National Film Awards.

His films ‘Awaara’ and ‘Boot Polish’ competed for the Palme d’Or prize at the Cannes Film Festival in 1951 and 1955’s editions respectively.

The Government of India honoured him with the Padma Bhushan in 1971 for his contributions to the arts. India’s highest award in cinema, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, was bestowed to him in 1988 by the Government of India.

Earlier, the International Film Festival of India, organised jointly by the National Film Development Corporation of India (under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting) and the state Government of Goa, in Goa, honoured Raj Kapoor ahead of his centenary, and invited Ranbir as the speaker to share anecdotes about his grandfather.

–IANS

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Mumbai, Dec 11 (IANS) The trailer of the upcoming streaming series ‘Karate Girls’ has been unveiled, and it showcases rivalry commencing between two girls, Komal and Abha who navigate love, loyalty, and identity through karate.

The show is set against the backdrop of Nashik, a town roughly 4 hours away from India’s financial capital, Mumbai.

Komal and Abha clash when Komal is forced to join Abha’s father’s Karate training academy – Navodaya, but soon realise that despite their clashing personalities, they must unite for a greater purpose.

The Nashik Karate Federation Tournament acts as a catalyst to the story as tension escalates between the two girls as they encounter unlikely situations having to fight against each other.

Manav Gohil, who portrays the role of Ajay Sensei in this series, said, “Being part of ‘Karate Girls’ has been a transformative experience for me as I got to revisit the art of Karate! Being trained in Muay Thai and Karate, I was excited from the word go and with this being my first title with Amazon MX Player, made this a really fun experience”.

He added, “My character Ajay Sensei leans towards discipline to bring about a change in society. Viewers will enjoy the twists and turns that the show has to offer as the gripping narrative keeps them engaged”.

The show is created by Dice Media and also stars Ashlesha Thakur, Celesti Bairagey, Meiyang Chang, Chirag Katrecha and Rohan Joshi.

Meiyang Chang said, “Being a part of ‘Karate Girls’ has been an enriching experience. It is rare to come across such stories that, against the backdrop of a relatively niche but exciting sport, delve deep into the emotions & relationships that make us human: love, envy, rebellion, friendship. JD is the menacing dark cloud of the series, a shrewd and manipulative man who won’t take no for an answer. I’m certain fans will love him & the series”.

Ashlesha Thakur, who portrays the character of Komal in the series, said, “It was a challenging experience to prepare for my character Komal, as I had to undergo a lot of physical training. Towards the end of it, my scope as an actor definitely expanded and I am grateful for the experience. Komal’s character embodies courage and determination, inspiring self-belief and resilience. Her journey showcases the transformative power of friendship and perseverance. I’m honoured to be part of this series”.

‘Karate Girls’ is set to drop on December 13 on Amazon MX Player.

–IANS

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Mumbai, Dec 11 (IANS) Superstar Mohanlal was joined by the “Khiladi” of Bollywood for the trailer launch of “Barroz”, which marks the debut directorial of the Malayalam star.

Mohanlal welcomed Akshay at the launch event in Mumbai city. The Bollywood hero was welcomed with a warm bear hug by Mohanlal. The two later posed for the camera and shared a fun chat.

The Bollywood star looked dapper in a white shirt paired with khakee shaded pants and sunglasses. While Mohanlal looked every-inch handsome dressed in a rust hued blazer paired with a white shirt and dark blue pants.

Barroz is set to release worldwide in 3D and multiple formats on December 25.

“Barroz” is a children’s fantasy based on his novel Barroz: Guardian of D’Gama’s Treasure. The film also stars Maya, Cesar Lorente Raton, Kallirroi Tziafeta, Tuhin Menon, and Guru Somasundaram in other significant roles.

Production on the film Barroz began in March 2021 and the unit was shot in Kochi, Gao, Bangkok and Chennai, among other places.

Talking about Akshay, he revealed on December 10 that he is excited to be on set with his favourite director Priyadarshan as he started shooting for his next “Bhooth Bangla”, which he revealed is set to hit the screens on April 2, 2026.

Akshay took to his Instagram, where he shared a new poster of the film and captioned it: “Beyond excited to be on set with my favourite @priyadarshan.official as we begin the shoot of our horror comedy #BhoothBangla today.”

“Yeh darr aur hasi ka double dose aapke liye ready hoga 2nd April, 2026 ko! Tab tak ke liye aapke best wishes chahiye,” he added.

Along with Akshay, actors Paresh Rawal, Asrani and Rajpal Yadav will be seen in the upcoming horror comedy “Bhooth Bangla” by filmmaker Priyadarshan.

The film is set to begin production in early 2025, with a theatrical release planned by the end of the year. The casting process is still ongoing, with three female lead roles yet to be filled.

Akshay has previously worked with Paresh in films such as “Hera Pheri”, “Phir Hera Pheri” and “Garam Masala”. The “Khiladi” star shared screen space with Rajpal in “Bhool Bhulaiyaa” and “Bhagam Bhag”. Asrani and the “Khel Khel Mein” actor worked together in “Khatta Meetha”.

On his 57th birthday on September 9, Akshay announced that he is joining forces with director Priyadarshan once again after 14 years for the film.

Akshay took to X, formerly called Twitter, where he shared the motion poster of the film. In the image, Akshay could be seen holding a bowl filled with a black cat standing on his shoulder.

“Thank you for your love on my birthday, year after year! Celebrating this year with the first look of ‘Bhooth Bangla’! I’m beyond excited to join forces with Priyadarshan again after 14 years,” wrote the actor, who last worked with the filmmaker in 2010 in the film “Khatta Meetha”.

“This dream collaboration has been a long time coming… can’t wait to share this incredible journey with you all. Stay tuned for the magic!”

Akshay and Priyadarshan have given several blockbusters together including “Hera Pheri”, “De Dana Dan”, “Bhool Bhulaiyaa”, “Garam Masala” and “Khatta Meetha” to name a few.

–IANS

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Mumbai, Dec 11 (IANS) Bollywood star Alia Bhatt says she was honoured to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and added that merely listening to his stories, makes her learn so much.

Alia took to Instagram, where she shared a bunch of pictures from her meeting with the iconic leader on Raj Kapoor’s centenary celebrations.

She wrote: “Art is timeless. And sometimes to move forward, we must look back and learn. Mr. Raj Kapoor’s impact was truly global. He marked his footprint all across the world with the movies he made, the stories he told.”

Heaping praise on the leader, Alia added: “Yesterday was such an honour to be invited by our respected Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji, to spend a lovely afternoon commemorating the life and legend of Mr. Raj Kapoor.”

“Merely listening to his stories, makes me learn so much, and his legacy continues to inspire.”

The actress spoke about “Raj Kapoor 100 Film Festival”, which will feature the late star’s most celebrated works, spanning almost four decades, including Aag (1948), Barsaat (1949), Awaara (1951), Shree 420 (1955), Jagte Raho (1956), Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai (1960), Sangam (1964), Mera Naam Joker (1970), Bobby (1973) and Ram Teri Ganga Maili (1985). It will be showcased across 40 cities and 135 cinemas in India from December 13 to December 15 at the PVR-Inox and Cinepolis cinemas.

“We’re thrilled to celebrate 100 glorious years of his artistry with the ‘Raj Kapoor 100 Film Festival’ from 13th-15th December in 10 cities, 40 cinemas, 135 screens, across the country. #100YearsOfRajKapoor,” she added.

On Wednesday morning, actress Kareena Kapoor thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a special afternoon and said that the iconic leader’s warmth, attention and support in celebrating the legacy of late star Raj Kapoor means the world to her.

Kareena took to Instagram, where she shared a string of pictures of the “Kapoor” family posing with the PM. In one image, the iconic leader even shared a signed note for her sons Taimur and Jeh. A few images also had the leader speaking to Saif, Ranbir, Neetu, Alia and Kareena.

–IANS

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Mumbai, Dec 11 (IANS) Life and art imitate each other, and this could be corroborated by the recently released Dulquer Salmaan-starrer crime drama ‘Lucky Baskhar’.

As per media reports, four school going kids in Andhra Pradesh have gone missing after watching the film. It’s stated that the kids were motivated by the film to leave their homes in search of money and fortune.

The kids reportedly told their friends that they would return only after earning money and cars like the character of Bhaskar does in the film. The four kids are identified as Charan Teja, Raghu, Karthik, and Kiran Kumar who are all studying in 9th grade. They all stay at a hostel in Maharanipet in Vizag. They were amused by the film to the degree that they all decided to earn money like the way the hero does in this film. The four came up with a plan to escape from the hostel and also got successful pulling it off.

CCTV footage from the hostel captured the boys climbing over the gate and fleeing. The distraught parents approached the local police, who filed a missing persons report. Currently, the boys are being actively searched across bus terminals, railway stations, and other public locations.

‘Lucky Baskhar’ which tells the story of a banker, who is burdened by family responsibilities and financial woes. He then seizes an opportunity to exploit loopholes in the banking system. What begins as a desperate bid to make quick money evolves into a calculated involvement in a larger stock market and money laundering scheme.

As the titular character rises from rags to riches, his character transforms, exposing arrogance and ambition. However, his wife, Sumathi, serving as his moral compass, questions his choices and forces him to confront the consequences of his actions.

–IANS

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Mumbai, Dec 11 (IANS) Actor Ishaan Khatter, who is currently holidaying down under, shared a video of himself swimming in the water to get a glimpse of the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system.

Ishaan took to Instagram stories, where he shared a mesmerising video of himself swimming over a tortoise, which can be seen closer to the coral reef.

“The great barrier reef and more friends…” he wrote as the caption.

The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system, composed of over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands stretching for over 2,300 kilometres over an area of approximately 344,400 square kilometres.

Ishaan had earlier shared a video of himself petting a koala and had captioned it as “made a few friends.”

Last month, Ishaan dropped a few thirst trap pictures that showcased his ripped biceps and lean frame.

In the images, Ishaan flaunted his toned physique in white vest and jeans. Sharing the post, the ‘Dhadak’ actor emphasised the importance of staying hydrated in the caption.

He wrote, “Stay hydrated.”

Ishaan is gearing up for the release of his Netflix romance series, “The Royals.” The show boasts a stellar ensemble cast, including Bhumi Pednekar, Nora Fatehi, Zeenat Aman, Dino Morea, Chunky Panday, and Milind Soman. The show is a modern-day Indian royalty rom-com series anchored by the chemistry between Bhumi and Ishaan Khatter.

Directed by Priyanka Ghose and Nupur Asthana, the series also stars Vihaan Samat, Kavya Trehan, Sumukhi Suresh, Udit Arora, Lisa Mishra and Luke Kenny.

The makers of the series on August 14 shared its teaser on Instagram, where Ishaan looked every-inch as royalty.

The post was captioned: “A royal feast for your eyes. Announcing #TheRoyals, coming soon only on Netflix.”

Produced by Pritish Nandy and created by Rangita and Ishita Pritish Nandy, known for their contemporary pop culture and spirited storytelling, had shared back then that ‘The Royals’ being their very first with Netflix had to be just the right blend of coming-of-age-India, Gen Z storytelling and feisty fun.

They added: “There is the inevitable romance of old royalty; monarchs without crowns, and the incredible drive of today’s startup warriors for whom crowns hold zero shine.”

–IANS

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Hyderabad, Dec 11 (IANS) Police have registered a case against veteran Tollywood actor Mohan Babu for attacking a television journalist at his residence on Tuesday night.

Pahadi Shareef Police Station registered a case under Bharat Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Section 118 (1) (causing hurt with dangerous weapons or substances).

According to police, the FIR was registered on a complaint by M. Satyanarayana, a reporter for Telangana news channel TV9.

Mohan Babu attacked the TV reporter when the latter had gone to his residence in Jalpally to cover the ongoing dispute between the veteran actor and his actor son Manchu Manoj.

The reporter stated in his complaint that when Manchu Manoj and other journalists went into the house at his invitation, Mohan Babu confronted them aggressively, used abusive and foul language, grabbed the mike and attacked him with it. This resulted in severe head injury.

The incident occurred when Manchu Manoj broke the gate to enter the house after an argument with the bouncers deployed there. Along with Manoj and his private security men, some journalists also entered the house.

When the TV 9 reporter asked a question to Mohan Babu about the dispute with his son, he got enraged, grabbed the mike and attacked the reporter with the mike. The journalist fell to the ground. The bouncers drove out all the journalists out of the house.

The injured reporter was admitted to a hospital in Shamshabad. According to doctors, he has suffered three fractures in the zygomatic bone (cheekbone) and needs plastic surgery.

Meanwhile, journalists staged a protest in front of the Film Chamber office and demanded action against Mohan Babu. They demanded that an attempt to murder case be registered against him.

The journalists also demanded that Mohan Babu’s family be expelled from Movie Artists Association (MAA), the apex body of Tollywood. Mohan Babu’s elder son and actor Manchu Vishnu is the president of MAA.

–IANS

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Mumbai, Dec 11 (IANS) The season 2 of the streaming series ‘Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein’ almost took three years to bow on the OTT. However, the third season of the show will hopefully return with its set of interesting and dark characters soon as the makers have officially confirmed the show’s third season.

The show stars Aanchal Singh, Tahir Raj Bhasin and Shweta Tripathi, who have won hearts with their complex relationships, obsessive love and unforgettable moments, are returning to weave magic and mayhem once again.

Season 2 was a complete package with thrill, lies, action, love and a whole lot of plotting. From Gurmeet Choudhary’s entry to save his friend to Tahir Raj Bhasin absolutely nailing it as Vikrant, the good guy who went rogue, the season has been showered with nothing but immense appreciation from the viewers.

Talking about the upcoming season and the reactions, director, writer and showrunner Sidharth Sengupta shared, “Season 3 will mark the next chapter in this deep yet twisted love story of Vikrant, Purva, and Shikha. Just as we delved deeper into Purva’s character in Season 2, we will further explore each character’s journey, providing deeper insights into their lives and personalities”.

He further mentioned, “Considering how Season 2 ended, things are bound to get even more intriguing as we witness how their characters evolve with the circumstances. Expect significant transformations in the lives of Vikrant, Shikha, Guru, Jalan, Akheraj and Akhil’s lives explore Purva’s life and her tumultuous past along with more twists and hard-hitting surprises”.

On the success and renewal of the series, Tanya Bami, Series Head, Netflix India said, “It’s official ‘Yeh Kaali Kaali Aankhein 3’ is coming. We are delighted to announce the renewal and success of S02 of this franchise. This masala entertainer has received both critical acclaim and fan love. It’s been trending at the Number 1 spot in India Top 10. And season one has also been trending since season two launched. We design each season to raise the bar on the previous season and with season 3 we are excited to have more twists, turns, action, drama and music – everything that fans love about this amazing romantic thriller”.

Produced by Edgestorm Ventures and created by Sidharth Sengupta, ‘Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein’ season 3 will be available to stream on Netflix.

–IANS

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Mumbai, Dec 11 (IANS) Veteran actress Bhagyashree indulged in a plateful of her “favourite” yumminess for breakfast.

Bhagyashree took to her Instagram stories, where she shared a picture from her hotel room. The image had a plate of masala dosa, sambhar and chutney.

“Good morning! My favourite breakfast,” she wrote as the caption.

Earlier this month, she gave out tips on how to make nutrient-packed laddoos for the winter season.

She shared a video, which started with “Who doesn’t like sweets? But nowadays, everyone is trying to control their diet. But today, I will show you a recipe of sweets which is tasty as well as healthy.”

The actress then started giving out tips.

“Chana Dal Khana Badam Kaju Pista Akhrod Goon Kali Miri Ajwain Good Grind the roasted chana dal. Now it’s time to grind the makhana. Grind all the dry fruits. Roast the goon in 1 tsp ghee. Roast the besan in 2.5 tsp ghee. Now add makhana. Now add kali miri and a little ajwain. Now add dry fruits. Now take it out. Add 1.5 tsp good.”

“If you like it sweeter, add more good.”

She shared that these ladoos have a lot of essential nutrients other than protein.

“Like calcium, iron, potassium, and vitamin B. Which will make your body healthy. So this winter, enjoy sweets and stay healthy.”

Calling it “Tuesday Tips with B”, she wrote: “Meethe ka Mazza! A winter sweet that you can enjoy while benefitting your health. This ladoo has almost all essential nutrients auch as potassium, calcium, manganese, selenium, folate, VitB and many many more.”

“It will help strengthen your bones, reduce arthritis pain, regulate your blood sugar, check hormonal imbalances, increase immunity and give you energy. What are you waiting for then, enjoy this winter preparation.”

On the work front, Bhagyashree was last seen onscreen in “Sajini Shinde Ka Viral Video” directed by Mikhil Musale. The film also stars Nimrat Kaur, Radhika Madan, and Subodh Bhave as leads.

–IANS

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