Archives for 2016

Shailendra Singh, imbibed with a dynamic persona, is a young at heart, energetic and enterprising man. He is full beans at any given moment of the day. Shailendra Singh also happens to be the Jt Director of Percept Limited, an event management company which also deals with commercial ads. Besides as a filmmaker he has producer 74 films till this date. He is now making his directorial debut with his upcoming film Sunshine Music Tours And Travels, which is all set to hit the marquée on 2nd Sept, 2016.

As a producer you have made scores of films over the years. Then how come you took so long to make your directorial debut?

As a producer I had spent my hard earned money from my event management company Percept Limited and gave a break to many directors, actors and even many technicians. And till this date I have ended up producing, distributing and releasing 74 films. So when I thought of making my directorial debut I started searching for the right producers to back my most ambitious project centering around the most popular annual Sunburn Festival of Goa. I really enjoyed producing films with my own money and now I wanted to see if I can really enjoy making a film by putting other producer’s money at stake.

Time to briefly narrate the concept of Sunshine Music Tours And Travels.

My upcoming film Sunshine Music Tours And Travels is a musically oriented travel film. The film revisits Bollywood’s superhit travel film Bombay To Goa. It is a travel musical made especially for people who still believe that they are young at heart. My debut directorial film Sunshine Music Tours And Travels has ample doses of comedy and drama. It has all the ingredients of a commercial potboiler. It is full of non – stop entertainment, fun and enjoyment. In short the film travels from Kashmir to Goa covering a distance of 2874 KM carrying 14 strangers who all have dreams in their eyes and some of their dreams are fulfilled when they reach Goa and take part in Goa’s most popular annual Sunburn Festival. The main protagonist of the film enacted by debutant Sunny Kaushal is named Sunburn. He is a small town boy of Kashmir who works in a dhabba and always listens to Sunburn music and dreams of attending the Sunburn Festival of Goa one day. Not only these all the 14 strangers who meet in the bus have their own dreams and stories to tell during their journey from Kashmir to Goa.

Is it a ploy to give more popularity to the Sunburn Festival of Goa, an annual event conceptualised and organised by your own event management company since its inception?

Sunburn Festival is already popular by now in India as well as all over the globe, with lakhs and lakhs of people attending every year in the month of January so it does not need any more popularity. Actually the film is based on a true story of a small town boy from Kashmir who always dreamt of visting the Sunburn Festival and the rest of the film is a fictionalised account centering around the Sunburn Festival.

Give us an insight into the cast & crew of Sunshine Music Tours And Travels.

As I said earlier the main protagonist of the film is Sunny Kaushal who was selected through an intense audition process. I only came to much later that Sunny happened to be the son of Bollywood’s famed action director Sham Kaushal and also the brother of actor Vicky Kaushal who had made his debut last year with the most talked about film Masaan. Anyways the rest of the debutant actors will get a proper on screen inroduction. As far as the crew is concerned the film has been produced by Kavanjit Hayre, executive producer is Percept Pictures, associate producer is Yusuf Shaikh, screenplay and dialogues by Shailendra Singh and Sehaj K. Maini, edited by Keval Shukla, music by Edward Avil, background score by Kingshuk Chakraborty, cinematography by Arshad Khan, written and directed by Shailendra Singh and produced under the banner of Hayare Entertainment in association with Percept Pictures Presents.

You have taken all debutant actors for Sunshine Music Tours And Travels whereas you could have made the film with established stars.

Yes I could have made the film with established stars but still I opted for debutant actors as I did not wish to comprise on the freshness factor of the film. That apart big stars means big money and then what’s the guarantee that the film will definately hit the bull’s eye. Salman Khan’s Sultan’s budget
was around 150 crores and it earned around 300 crores so considering its huge budget I believe that its profit margin was no great shakes. I don’t believe in such economics of filmmaking especially when I am making a film with other producer’s money. So I decided to make a small buget film with an all new cast and if the film hits the bull’s eye then our profit margin will also be great and everybody will have its benefits in their own way.

You have distributed and released most of your films so what do you feel is the distribution scenario in the present times?

Nowadays only a handful of corporate houses distribute and release only the films that they feel will be commercially viable. But even they tend to make a wrong move most of the time. So why do you think I used to distribute my own films most of the time?. Then the multiplex scenario is also nothing much to rave about. They are also desperate to exhibit only commercially viable films. Today a family ends up coughing a huge amount to watch a single film including the ever increasing ticket rates. And then also they are deprived of a common thing like water. I was the first person to install a water cooler in a multiplex. I also feel that Just as bars and pubs have “Happy Hours” for its customers then why can’t the multiplexes also have “Happy Hours” for the cine goers. This is the sorriest state of affairs of multiplexes. So where will a common layman go to watch a film? But I think the days of single théâtres will be back soon.

Sunny Kaushal, the Punjabi lad, wanted to be a chartered accountant but lost his interest midway and then aspired to be an actor. After a long process of giving scores of auditions he finally got a chance to don the grease paint and face the arc lights, that too after passing an intense audition process with flying colours. Sunny Kaushal is now keeping his fingers and toes crossed for the release of his debut making film Sunshine Music Tours And Travels.

What made you to take a sudden décision to be an actor instead of a chartered accountant?

It was not a sudden decision. I was indeed a chartered accountant in the making but my heart was not into it. Its sounds cliched but I always wanted to do something creative. So even before my elder brother Vicky Kaushal made a debut as an actor with Masaan last year. I was also aspiring to be an actor. Besides my father Sham Kaushal is Bollywood’s famed action director.

How did you go about to make inroads in Bollywood to become an actor?

Just like any other struggling actor even I went through the whole grind of the intense auditioning process. Of late struggling actors do not have to go knocking on the doors of the varied production houses. Its the casting directors who decide the fate of a wannabe actor. Yes even I faced a whole lot of rejection and dejection, I also tried to pick up the ropes of filmmaking by being an assistant director for films like My Friend Pinto and Gunday, and I finally bagged my debut film. But the interesting part is that I never revealed my identity of hailing from a filmy family to anyone. Even Shailendra Sir came to know about me much later.

What’s your role in your debut film?

I enact the role of a small town orphaned boy from Kashmir. Who is working in a Dhabba as a boy who serves people. Out there a lot of English music is played because a lot of foreigners visit these Dhabbas. Gradually I fall for these English music and also come to know about the annual Sunburn (music and dance) Festival through the foreigners. Since then it becomes my dream to visit the Sunburn Festival in Goa. So I undertake the bus journey from Kashmir to Goa with 14 other strangers who in turn have their own dreams. My character named Sunburn is based on a real life incident.

How was it working with debutant director Shailendra Singh?

Honestly it was phenomenal. He is the best young at heart director that I have come across. His round the clock vibrant energy inspired me to give off my best. We travelled all the way from Kashmir to Goa. It was more of a mauj masti oriented picnic. To the extent that we became very nostalgic when it was all over. Moreover Shailendra Sir never gave us a script. He just had one script reading session with the entire cast, then explained a lot about our character in detail and then gave us a totally free hand to explore and improvise on our own.

To wrap it up some rapid fire queries for you. Who are your most favourite actors in Bollywood and Hollywood?

My most favourite actors in Bollywood are Anil Kapoor and Alia Bhatt. In Hollywood they are Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, Brad Pitt and Jennifer Lawrence. She reminds me so much of Alia Bhatt in all aspects and respects.

Your wishlist of Bollywood directors.

The list is long enough and exhaustive like Raju Hirani, Manish Sharma, Vishal Bhardwaj, Anurag Kashyap, Aditya Chopra, Karan Johar to name just a few.

Your favourite Bollywood and Hollywood movies.

My all time favourite films in Bollywood are Pyaasa, Deewar, Rang De Basanti, 3 Idiots and of course my brother’s film Masaan. In Hollywood they are Godfather trilogy, Dog’s Day Afternoon, Silver Linining And Playbook, Grounded and Baby’s Day Out.

Your dream role if given a chance?

I am a big fan of Superhero films both in Hollywood and Bollywood. So if given a chance I would like to enact the role of any Supehero hands down.

The Government of Jharkhand signed MoU with Carnival Group for setting up minimum 75 theatres – cum – recreation zones in 18 out of the state’s 24 districts at the Calcutta leg of Momentum Jharkhand, the state’s ongoing sales pitch in metros to tap entrepreneurs before its global summit in Ranchi in Feb, 2017. The State Urban Development Department Secretary A. K. Singh & Carnival Group Chairman Dr. Shrikant Bhasi has signed the pact on 19th Aug, 2016 wherein the company would develop a chain of recreation zones, each unit comprising a multiplex, food court, retail & gaming zones. This is part of the Government of Jharkhand’s efforts to refine its social infrastructure, where entertainment and recreation have assumed increasingly critical importance to enhance urban cosmopolitanism, boost employment opportunities and woo global investors. Carnival group is now also all set to establish centers across the state that will blend in skill, entertainment & education. The Hon’ble Chief Minister of Jharkhand Raghubar Das said, “There are many options in Jharkhand like entertainment, tourism, food processing, IT sectors with good investment potential. We are trying to address each sector in a phased manner to attract investment.” “ Carnival will set up minimum of 75 theatres – cum -recreational zones in 18 districts of the 24 districts of Jharkhand and the state government will facilitate them land from an acre to 1.5 acres per project,” said Under Secretary of The State Urban Development Department Rahul Kumar. Carnival Group spokesperson said, “In the process of developing green field projects, we may take up additional existing infrastructure such as spacious loss making single – screens to remodel them and make it viable. According to MoU, we have 2 years from now to start work at the ground level.”

DEEPAK TIJORI WRAPS UP THE 1ST SCHEDULE OF ‘TOM DICK HARRY RETURNS’

Sharman Joshi, Jimmy Shergill, Aftab Shivdasani, Pooja Chopra, Nazia Hussian & Sana Khan who were busy shooting for TOM DICK HARRY RETURNS have completed the shoot schedule for the same. Present at the wrap up party were the producers Surendra Bhatia &b Narsingh Rajput and the editor of the film Ballu Saluja. 9 years later, the filmmaker is returning with TOM DICK HARRY RETURNS, the 2nd edition of this laugh riot. Once again, the premise is similar. It is based on a comedy of errors revolving around 3 men, 1 blind, 1 deaf & 1 mute. Quite obviously, the plot line this time around will be new. Even the main star cast sees some changes. While Jimmy Sheirgill (Harry) has been retained, we have Sharman Joshi, the actor with a perfect comic timing & Aftab Shivdasani, another favorite in comedies, playing the lead characters. Pooja Chopra (Miss India World, 2009), Nazia Hussain & Sana Khan play their love interests.

DISHA PATANI STARTS DUBBING FOR HER 1ST INTERNATIONAL FLICK ‘KUNG FU YOGA’

Disha Patani, who is very excited with her back to back projects in the film industry is all set to make her Bollywood debut with M.S. DHONI: THE UNTOLD STORY, which will be followed by the International flick KUNG FU YOGA alongside Jackie Chan. Disha is currently in China for the dubbing of her 1st International project. Disha Patani, who starred in the musical song “Befikra” with Tiger Shroff, is dubbing for her role in the upcoming movie KUNG FU YOGA, which is slated to release in the early 2017. In the film, Disha will be doing some high -octane action sequences alongside the Chinese superstar Jackie Chan. Jackie Chan is very impressed with the Indian beauty and there are chances that she will bag some more International projects after KUNG FU YOGA. The film also stars Amyra Dastur, Aarif Rahman & Sonu Sood in the titular roles. Disha Patani is also playing an important role in M.S. DHONI: THE UNTOLD STORY, where she is essaying the character of Dhoni’s ex -girlfriend Priyanka Jha. Directed by Neeraj Pandey, the film will hit the theatres on 30th Sept, 2016.

SONARIKA BHADORIA GOES BEYOND BIKINI

Those who took offence in Sonarika Bhadoria donnig a bikini for her movie SAANSEIN – THE LAST BREATH, would be excited to see her in a simple yet beautiful bridal saree. The still released by the production house makes the point clear that Sonarika’s character is not limited to just donning a bikini but seems to have various shades to it. Looks like Sonarika is set to surprise us with her different avatars. With so much of stark variation in a character’s presentation, one will have to wait & watch what all is in store in this (horrance) Horror Romance. Says Sonarika, “I am playing a different off – beat character. I loved the script. There are various shades to my role and I am sure my fans will love me in this avatar.” Also starring Rajniesh Duggall, Hiten Tejwani, Neetha Shetty, Sachi Ruia, Amir Dalvi & Vishal Malhotra and shot in the exquisite locales of Mauritius, the film is directed by Rajiv S Ruia and produced by GPA productions. SAANSEIN – THE LAST BREATH is arriving on 11th Nov, 2016 to send a chill down your spine.

TERRIFIC TEN FOR SHOOJIT SIRCAR’S ‘PINK’!

Shoojit Sircar’s PINK has overwhelmingly evoked stirring conversations & debates across the country with its shocking trailer launched recently. Shoojit’s PINK is a creative collaboration of some of the most talented artistes in India, with a staggering 10 National Award winners as part of its core team! Amitabh Bachchan commands the team with 4 National Awards to his credit (PIKU, PAA, BLACK & AGNEEPATH), along with Shoojit Sircar winning the National Award for VICKY DONOR, Producer Ronnie Lahiri winning for VICKY DONOR as well & Director Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury already established as a leading light in the field of direction with 2 National Awards in his kitty as well. Joining the above is musician Shantanu Moitra who won the National Award for “Best Music Direction”, Cinematographer Avik Mukhopadhayay with 3 National Awards, Sound Designer Bishwadeep Chatterjee with 2 National Awards, Sound Mixer Nihar Ranjan Samal with 2 National Awards, Re – recording Mixer Sinoy Joseph with Sound Designer Dipankar Jojo Chaki with 2 National Awards respectively. Shoojit Sircar says, “It has been a humble privilege and most enriching experience working with such award winning luminaries on PINK. “Thanks to the film, we have formed a close & lifelong friendship”. Looks like PINK slated for release on 16th Sept, 2016 is all set to bring yet another feather to the team’s cap we feel!

‘EK TERA SAATH’ IS ALL SET FOR WORLD RELEASE ON 14th OCT 2016

Eyefaa Studio & Baba Motion Pictures Pvt Ltd’s 1st maiden venture EK TERA SAATH staring Ssharad Malhotra, Hritu Dudhani, Melani Nazareth, Vishwajit Pradhan, Deepraj Rana & directed by
Arshad Siddiqui, with lyrics by Turazl, Dr. Devendra Kafir & Aslam Siddiqui & music by Sunil Singh, Liyakat Ajmeri, Ali –Anirudh has songs sung by Rahet Fateh Ali Khan, Sonu Nigam, K. K., Shahid Mallya, Bhoomi Trivedi & Swati Sharma. The film is slated for worldwide release on 14th Oct, 2016.

DISNEY’S ‘QUEEN OF KATWE’ CELEBRATES THE AMAZING JOURNEY OF THE UNLIKELIEST OF SPORTSWOMEN

Internationally acclaimed filmmaker, Mira Nair’s forthcoming drama, Disney’s
QUEEN OF KATWE is all set to release in India on 7th Oct, 2016, will premiere at the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival in Sept, 2016. Like Nair’s previous films, QUEEN OF KATWE is a heartwarming & riveting drama. Based on real – life events, the film chronicles the inspiring story of an underdog from the streets of rural Uganda. She’s a young girl whose world rapidly changes when she is introduced to the game of chess; as a result of the support from her family & community she develops confidence & determination to pursue her dream to become an international chess champion. The film stars Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o, Golden Globe nominee David Oyelowo & debutant Madina Nalwanga. Disney’s QUEEN OF KATWE will be released in English & Hindi.

ROHIT PATHAK LEARNING MARTIAL ARTS FOR HIS NEXT FILM

B – town stars are always recognized for their fashion & attractive personalities. We talk about any magazine photo shoot or movie or any fashion show, where we notice them in a beautiful avatar. What makes them perfectly fit?? Very few of us know that Bollywood personalities prefer martial arts in their routine to keep themselves fit. The list of action heroes can be counted in the industry but not many are experienced in Mixed Martial Art Training. One more name in the list of Martial Arts is Rohit Pathak. The actor who recently signed Phantom Production film has started his training in martial art. Says Rohit, “Exercise is the only thing that completely changes your personality. Body weight workout makes you fit & flexible. Regular exercise & daily workout in fresh air gives you a lot of energy & enthusiasm and automatically gets you into discipline without even your realizing.”

RHEA KAPOOR CLARIFIES KAREENA IS VERY MUCH A PART OF ‘VEERE DI WEDDING’!

While reports have been rife over Kareena Kapoor Khan no longer being a part of VEERE DI WEDDING, official sources confirm that there is no truth to the rumors. The makers including producer Rhea Kapoor have laughed off the reports, clarifying that Kareena is an integral part of the film and will be shooting for it in Oct, 2016. When questioned Kareena too put an end to the speculation as she said, “We are going to shoot VEERE DI WEDDING for a couple of days in Oct, 2016. Then I will resume post delivery. I am definitely doing the film. We are working on how & when we can shoot”. Rhea Kapoor clarifies, “The report is completely untrue. Kareena is very much a part of VEERE DI WEDDING and will be shooting for us in Oct, 2016 and early next year.”

PRASHANTT HONOURED WITH A KEY TO THE NASSAU COUNTY IN NEW YORK

Prashantt Guptha, last seen in NEERJA in a pivotal role of an Indian origin American citizen martyr, has great guns going since the release of the film. The actor, who was invited to the United States of America to represent India at the India Day parade in honour of India’s 70th year since Independence, says, “We’ve always spoken about how, I, a Jaipur native, am breaking through Bollywood with the recent films. But the honour that I received at the India Day parade event in New York, I didn’t see coming. Years ago, I left the City of Long Island in New York to pursue my “Bollywood Dreams”. And after years of struggling and finally breaking through with films like ISSAQ, IDENTITY CARD, NEERJA et al, my very own Long Island’s affluent Indian community called me back to stand as a Grand Marshal of The India Day Parade. The 3 day event led to much interaction with Bobby Deol & singer Raghav, the political & business leaders and thousands of well – wishers, especially those in the Rajasthani community, who came to see me. The concluding Gala allowed me to express anecdotes about certain unknown connections I have with Bobby Deol and the Nassau County political executives bestowed upon a distinct honourary key to the city. I have also completed IRADA with Naseeruddin Shah & Arshad Warsi, and a war film with Prosenjit Chatterjee. IRADA will release this Fall and the war film is in post -production”, adds Prashantt who was also seen in films like 6-5=2, ISSAQ, IDENTITY CARD & KAALO earlier.

SUMIT KHETAN MAKES SANJAY MISHRA & RAKESH BEDI TO DANCE ON HIS TUNES

Sumit Khetan who has choreographed for Ayushmaan Khuraana for songs like “Paani Da Rang”, “Rum Whisky” and created magic in shows like COMEDY NIGHTS WITH KAPIL, RANG DE & Colors Holi, is all set to choreograph new film KHAMAKHAH YUN HI staring Sanjay Mishra, Rakesh Bedi, Sham Mashalkar, Dr. J. S. Randhawa, Sonal Mudgal et al. Sumit said, “The song is very beautiful and we started rehearsal. The work is very different as he has to play with the artist’s expression & body language and will try extracting the best out of them.” KHAMAKHAH YUN HI is an upcoming Bollywood movie. It is a unique one in the sense that It has real life incidences incorporated in a mature love story, with fun throughout, in a medical background with students of all ages who are doctors. The movie ends on a very different note sending out a special message to the society on extra marital relationships. The film is being produced under the banner of Reverberation Films Pvt Ltd.

’31ST OCTOBER’ TO RELEASE ON 7TH OCT 2016

Writer – producer Harry Sachdeva​ & Panorama Studios film ’31ST OCTOBER is all set to release on 7th Oct, 2016. The poignant thriller is based on the aftermath of the powerful prime minister of India,​ Indira Gandhi’s assassination.
Directed by National award winning filmmaker, Shivaji Lotan Patil, the movie featuring Soha Ali Khan & Vir Das is based on a true story ​of a Sikh family, their journey against all odds for survival, and is a close depiction of one of the days that changed the course of Indian history which effected millions in India & abroad. The subject has been attempted for the very 1st time in the mainstream cinema. The film will make the audience witness this historic chapter in the form of a dramatic thriller. Harry Sachdeva
says, “We are​ glad that after crossing all the hurdles, our​ film will be released worldwide on 7th Oct, 2016.” Shivaji says, “It ’s the 1st film ever on the aftermath of Indira Gandhi’s assassination for the world audience.” Adds Kumar Mangat, Chairman of Panorama Studios, “The film has a global appeal and is a must watch human interest story, especially for the youth. I appreciate the efforts of the filmmaker to attempt such a bold and a brilliant subject and bring it to the big screen.” ​

OZVAGANZA MELBOURNE OFF TO A GREAT START

Chinagate Group’s Magazine was abuzz with masti, music, mazaa and Ozvaganza Melbourne, a Meilleur Events presentation. Present were Vishwajeet & wife Sonalika Pradhan, their Australian associates Eshwar Lakhawat & Raj Chopra, Smita Thackeray, Sohail Khan, Rajpal Yadav, Ruhan Mahendra Kapoor, Krishna Tamang, Vinod Kambli, Rohit Verma, Asif Bhamla, Ram Kadam, Archana Kochhar, Alexx O’Nell, Lesle Lewis, Madhushree, Mudasir Ali, Kavitta Verma, Eijaz Khan, Brinda Parekh, DJ Beyond 120, Allwyn Rodrigues, Purva Rana, Rehan Shah, Priyanka Shah et al. Ozvaganza Melbourne, the brainchild of Sonalika & Vishwajeet Pradhan, will see Preity Zinta, Abhay Deol, world – famous DJs , Brazilian dance troupe, singers and performers among others swaying to Bollywood beats in Melbourne. The event also spells the confluence of leading designers from India, Pakistan, UAE, Sri Lanka & Australia, and is in collaboration with Smita Thackeray’s Mukkti Foundation. Says Vishwajeet Pradhan, “Ozvaganza Melbourne aims to bring together the best of South Asia & Australia and strengthen the India -Australia intercultural relationship. ” Adds Smita Thackeray, “We for India is the new social initiative started by my NGO, Mukkti Foundation. I believe that the only way to empower women is by developing their skill sets, making them financially independent and capable of standing on their own feet, to walk tall in society and with their heads held high.”

COLGATE LAUNCHES NEW BLUE GEL TOOTHPASTE WITH RANVEER SINGH!

Colgate Palmolive (India) Limited has introduced a new blue gel toothpaste called Colgate MaxfreshPowerFreeze – an intense minty variant packed with icy, cooling crystals. It was launched by brand ambassador Ranveer Singh in Mumbai recently. Ranveer made a dramatic entry and took the onlookers by surprise as he danced with a troupe to the MaxFresh song before unveiling a larger than life -size version of the toothpaste. The actor was at his energetic best as he mingled with his fans, played fun games and even broke into a small jig for them. Eric Jumbert, Director, Marketing, Colgate -Palmolive (India) Limited said, “Our gel toothpaste is all about fresh flavors that transforms dull mornings & energize you. Its intense minty flavor has been created to give our freshness seeking consumers an icy blast of freshness that lingers on.” “While I have often been labelled as someone who is always riding high on energy, a lesser known fact is that I too need a sudden kick in the morning to get into my animated self. This new toothpaste has an icy, minty taste that instantly freshens me up in the morning. It is my secret to bring each day alive”, says Ranveer Singh.

PRIME FOCUS BAGS HONOR AT FORTUNE INDIA “NEXT 500” 2016 AWARDS

Prime Focus is amongst the distinguished firms that have made it onto the prestigious Fortune India “Next 500” list of companies. A new entry onto the list, Prime Focus was ranked 18th in recognition of its remarkable achievements & progress over the last year, and was also presented with an award for “Excellence in the Media & Entertainment Sector” at the Leela Palace New Delhi. Namit Malhotra, Founder, Executive Chairman & Global CEO, Prime Focus, who was on – hand to receive the honor says, “This award honors all of the talented people in our organization who work hard to keep us at the forefront of our industry. We look forward to climbing even higher up the list in the years to come.” The companies recognized on the “Next 500” list are selected by Fortune from various sectors, including food & agricultural products, pharma, Information Technology, iron & steel & financial services, and are recognized as having the potential to break into the Fortune India 500. According to the magazine, the “Next 500” companies have together generated revenues of Rs. 5,14,788 crores, and on an average have revenues of over Rs. 1,000 crore.

ZEENAT AMAN TO WALK THE RED CARPET ON THE OPENING DAY OF THE 14TH ANNUAL BOLLYWOOD FESTIVAL NORWAY

Zeenat Aman would be the chief Guest of Honour for this year’s 14th Annual Bollywood Festival in Norway. Adding charm of her beauty to the red carpet she is coming to the festival in Norway to steal many hearts. She is a name which is remembered till date for her ultra glamorous looks & sultry persona onscreen. It is impossible to talk of Hindi cinema of the 1970s & 1980s without talking of Zeenat Aman. The “Dum Maro Dum” girl was a psychedelic dream for generations of movie – goers. Zeenat went on to revolutionize the Hindi film actress. She would be coming along with her son Azaan Khan who his making his debut as a director soon. Zeenat Aman has contributed a lot to the industry.

TEAM ‘CHAPEKAR BROTHERS’ VISIT PUNE TO PAY THEIR TRIBUTES TO THE LEGENDARY CHAPEKAR & TILAK FAMILIES

The team of Hindi film CHAPEKAR BROTHERS is on a promotional tour in Pune, which has an important role to play in the film which explores the glorious lives of Chapekar Brothers who contributed immensely in the freedom struggle. Abhijit Bhagat, Sanjeet Dhuri & Manoj Bhatt who play Chapekar Brothers were a part of the entourage. Megha
Joshi, Kanchan Awasthi, writer Dhiraj Mishra & producer Ghanshyam Patel were also present. The team 1st paid their tributes to the Chapekar Memorial situated at Chapekar Chowk. They met the members from the Chapekar family. Later on, the team visited the iconic Chapekar Wada, a place where memories are still fresh. CHAPEKAR BROTHERS is strongly supported by Girish Prabhane of Chapekar Brothers Samiti who had arrived at the event too. The team met with Shailesh & Vandana Tilak – great grandson & daughter – in – law who hail from the legendary Tilak family. CHAPEKAR BROTHERS features Abhijit Bhagat, Sanjeet Dhuri & Manoj Bhatt as the Chapekar brothers, Indian revolutionaries involved in the 1896 assassination of the British Plague Commissioner of Pune, W C Rand. Govind Namdev is playing freedom fighter Bal Gangadhar Tilak in the film directed by Devendar Kumar Pandey. CHAPEKAR BROTHERS is all set to release on 2nd Sept, 2016.

CHILD STAR AYUSH KHEDEKAR ENJOYS DAHI – HANDI WITH THE REVELLERS

Child star Ayush Khedekar visited one of the pandals in Lokhandwala, Andheri where dahi – handi was celebrated with much funfare to promote his movie EK THA HERO which also stars Amita Pathak Sachar, Ashwini Kalsekar, Asrani & Darshan Jariwala. There was a huge crowd which gathered to get a glimpse of the SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE star Ayush Khedekar, who obliged his fans by clicking “selfies” with them. Ayush is gearing up for his film EK THA HERO
which will release on 23rd Sept, 2016. It is a story about a 11 year old village boy named Jignesh. He is fondly referred as “Hero”. His dream of owning a cycle makes him go through a roller coaster ride. Through his journey full of passion, laughter, joy, tears, inspiration & learning, Jignesh wins several hearts & emerges out to be a real “HERO”. The film is jointly produced by Sachin N Dhakan, Amit Soni, Payal Madiyar & Jayesh Madiyar. It has been directed & written by Yogesh Pagare. This film will be marketed by Clyde Daniels & Girish Wankhede of Entity One Pvt. Ltd has come on board as the Strategy Consultant for distribution. Monty Sharma is the music director.

MULTIPLEXES IN INDIA REFUSE TO CARRY ‘WARRIOR SAVITRI’

Param Gill’s directorial debut has landed him in big trouble. The film faces unofficial ban in India but will open in US, UK & Australia on 2nd Sept, 2016. The international version of film minus music videos has been hailed by critics, but it has struggled with its release in India. The reviews in India have been unfavorable as well. There is massive support for the film in US, with a theatrical premiere in Los Angeles set to be punctuated with major Hollywood celebrities. Param Gill could not come to India to promote the film. “We have major publicity campaign set to hit United Sates this week. Entire Hollywood has rallied behind me to support the film. Though we did not find any support in Bollywood, the international version of film will break barriers. This is the 1st of its kind of film coming out of India with female protagonist.” The director has faced death threats but still went ahead with the film with a worldwide release.

MUKTA A2 CINEMAS RESTORES THE ICONIC TOPIWALA THEATRE IN GOREGAON

With the intent of providing its patrons a pocket friendly multiplex experience, Mukta Arts Limited the company came up with its own brand of theatres, Mukta A2 Cinemas, with 38 screens in 14 cities
across India. Mukta A2 Cinemas has further branched out to provide cinematic excellence with the launch of its 15th property by taking over the Heritage Topiwala Cinema in Goregaon, which consists of 2 screens with a seating capacity of 499 people. It is the 1st time in India that any cinema chain has used Quantum logic sound. Quantum Logic technology transforms any stereo or multi – channel audio source into an astounding 7.1 channel surround sound experience. Rahul Puri, Managing Director, Mukta Arts Ltd. said “We always wanted to come up with a multiplex in the suburbs so that our patrons could get a supreme movie watching experience. Goregaon has always been the hub for movie lovers and with this cinema we plan to bring cinematic experience that will create a benchmark. Our target is to launch about 50 screens in 2016”.

VARUN DHAWAN UNVEILS SOPHIE CHOUDRY’S NEW SINGLE “SAJAN MAIN NACHUNGI”

Venus Worldwide Entertainment released dancing diva Sophie Choudry’s new single “Sajan Main Nachungi”, touted to be “The Sangeet Anthem” for the coming wedding & festive season and the hottest bachelorette for this year. After a gap of 3 years, the stage witnessed an unforgettable evening when Sophie Choudry performed live & exclusive as she captivated the audience with her performance at the launch of her new single released under the banner of music label Venus Worldwide
Entertainment. The launch saw the presence of Neil Nitin Mukesh, Tushar Kapoor, Abbas Mustan, Manyata Dutt, Shweta Khanduri, Mansi, Ganesh Jain & Girish Jain. Sophie Choudry says, “This is
just another form of playback singing”
shares Sophie. “I miss the days of Nazia,
Alisha, Shweta, Shaan, Lucky Ali,
Euphoria et al. At one point music videos
were bigger than film songs because
they were sexy, fun, glamarous… then
everyperson wanted to make sexy remix videos & gradually the market just died. I hope it doesn’t happen again,” signs off Sophie. The single directed by
Colossus (Ajay & Lovel), is picturized & vocals given by Sophie Choudry which revolves around a bachelorette party.

THE TRAILER LAUNCH OF ‘ISLAND CITY’

The trailer launch of NFDC’s ISLAND CITY was held recently in Mumbai, in presence of the cast including Vinay Pathak, Tannishtha Chatterjee, Amruta Subhash, Chandan Roy Sanyal & Samir Kocchar
with the debutant director Ruchika Oberoi. Vikramjit Roy, the executive producer & Awadhesh Kumar, Head Distribution & Syndication, NFDC averred, “The film is inspired by my own experiences in Mumbai – a mix of sad, comic & strange experiences of living in an urban city” says the writer -director
Ruchika Oberoi. Vinay Pathak said, “I was pestering Ruchika to cast me in the film because once I read the script I was completely blown away by it.. Once again I don’t have a heroine in the film. I have only machines to love in the Island City and a boss who inspires me to have fun” Tannishtha Chatterjee says, “All the characters are trapped in a machine like life where our relationship is stronger with the virtual world compared to the real world. ” Amruta Subhash said, “So far we have seen love stories where a hero & heroine meet & fall in love but my story in ISLAND CITY is about the kind of love where a lover & the beloved have never met but are still in love.” Chandan Roy Sanyal who stars opposite Tannishtha in one of the 3 stories says, “I play a Gujju lower class slum dweller who loves his bike more than his girlfriend”

R MADHAVAN’S BI – LINGUAL ‘SAALA KHADOOS’ CREATES HISTORY ON NATIONAL TELEVISION!

R Madhavan’s bi – lingual SAALA KHADOOS released beginning this year (28th Jan, 2016) but it continues to hold the same freshness among the viewers. Surprisingly, Madhavan is the 1st actor who’s bilingual, SAALA KHADOOS (Hindi & Tamil) was premiered on the national television on the same day, 15th Aug, 2016. The Hindi film & its Tamil version IRRUDHI SUTTRU released together recorded the highest TRPs on national television. The sports – based film based on boxing inspired the family audiences resulting in a big debate as they took to social networking sites discussing the plight of boxing in India. Interestingly, the popular dialogue from the movie – “Kaun kehta hai Hindustanio mein dam nahi? Sports mein se politics hatakar dekho… gali gali mein champions milenge” still remains as the best one of this year.

YASH SONI GETS MOBBED BY FEMALE FANS AT A COLLEGE YOUTH FESTIVAL

Yash Soni, who shot to fame with the Gujarati hit CHHELLO DIVAS is all set to make his Bollywood debut with DAYS OF TAFREE. Produced by Anand Pandit & Rashmi Sharma, DAYS OF TAFREE revolves around the life of 7 friends showcasing their journey of growing up, highs & lows of their relationships, love & compassion, end of college days and the beginning of a new life. Recently, the Tafree gang had gone to attend a youth festival in a suburban Mumbai college. As soon as Yash entered the venue, a bunch of crazy female fans went berserk seeing their favorite actor, hooting for him and reciting his dialogues from CHHELLO DIVAS. The madness reached another level when the event got over and a heap of girls surrounded Yash in the run to meet him closely and click selfies with him. DAYS OF TAFREE directed by Krishnadev Yagnik stars Yash Soni, Ansh Bagri, Sanchay Goswami, Sarabjit Bindra, Nimisha Mehta, Kinjal Rajpriya & Anuradha Mukherjee.