Archives for 2017

In a classy, black tie setting with chandeliers & decor that recreated the allure & the glamour of cinema, Ranbir Kapoor & Anushka Sharma presented Aadar Jain & Anya Singh to the media.

Popular stars with massive fan followings & role models to the youth, Ranbir Kapoor addressed the privileges & the prejudices of being an insider of the Hindi film industry, even as the camaraderie between him & his cousin, Aadar Jain had everyone engaged.

Anushka Sharma recalled memories of her journey into filmdom as an outsider, and the significant role that Yash Raj Films has played in shaping her career.

Encouraging & supportive of Anya Singh, Anushka emphasised the strength & the focus an independent minded aspiring actor without film connections needs to have, a thought that also connects to Anya’s story so far.

As both debutantes Aadar Jain & Anya Singh posed for photographers, these engaging conversations presented interesting sides to stories of actors’ lives and all that goes into making a celluloid silver screen dream come true.

ARFI LAMBA TURNS A PRODUCER WITH LOEY

Actor turn producer Arfi Lamba, whose debut production film Loev has received high accolades internationally has now featured in a German film. The actor who is remembered for his outstanding performance in Slumdog Millionaire, Prague, Fugly & Singh is Bliing is seen in a lead role for a German film to be released in 3 countries – Germany, Switzerland & Austria. The actor is now on his way to reading for 3 lead roles. Where many actors are jumping into production and it’s a new trendy thing for actors & senior actors to have their own production houses, Arfi has chosen a full – fledged Indie production house that’s majorly gaining prominence in the international films circuit. Says Arif, “When I heard the story of Loev, it was like no other love story I knew or that had come into my experience. Though between men, it transcended the gender bias and talked about unrequited love. Everybody felt it’s impossible to make but my gut told me that this film will be far more that what it seems to be on paper now and today I stand vindicated. I hope it gives hope that a good story is what they should write and not a story that can be made”. Arfi’s company’s next project deals with mapping mental health situation in India and it’s a documentary from the eyes of award winning director Rohan Sabharwal who recently delivered a Ted talk on Arif’s documentary subject too.

RONIT ROY TO MAKE A GRAND DEBUT IN A JUNIOR NTR STARRER JAI LAVA KUSA

Ronit Roy who was last seen in Sarkaar 3, known for his power packed performances is all set to make his debut down south with Junior NTR starrer Jai Lava Kusa directed by K. S. Ravindra (Bobby). The actor has won many accolades for his performances in films like Udaan, Boss, Ugly 2 States & Kaabil. After ruling the small screen for close to 2 decades and sharing screen space with a list of ace actors from Bollywood, Now Ronit is ready to explore south markets and has landed with a film, where he plays the main lead in a negative role in his kitty. What’s more!!! The film stars, south mega- star Junior NTR, who will be seen in a triple role. The actor is all set win over the hearts of the audience down south with his acting prowess. This year looks like an eventful and a busy year for the actor who has 2 more films releasing. The actor will be seen next in Munna Michael with Tiger Shroff and directed by Sabbir Khan and in a new avatar in Lucknow Central with Farhan Akhtar directed by Ranjit Tiwari.

SAIYAMI KHER’S MONSOON EXPEDITION

Saiyami Kher who has her parents base in Nasik has been looking for all the reasons to travel to see her parents. The actress loves the monsoon season. Since the start of the rains the actress has been taking road trips from Mumbai to Nasik to enjoy the weather and the beautiful scenery. Just 2 days back the actress had gone to Nasik with her friends and planned a trekking expedition. The actress along with her friends did a 4 hour trek to Kalsubai, the highest peak in the Sahyadris. This is not the 1st time the actress has taken to the mountains. The actress makes sure that every year at least once she goes for a hiking or trekking trip.

NFHM TECHNICAL ADVISOR SHRI UJWAL NIRGUDKAR CHOSEN AS MEMBER OF ACADEMY OF MOTION PICTURES

Ujwal Nirgudkar, the technical advisor for the National Film Heritage Mission, has been selected as the member of the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences (The Academy) batch of 2017 in the “Members – At – Large” category. This year, The Academy announced a list of 774 new members, breaking its previous record of 683 members in 2016. The list includes high -profile international actors, acclaimed directors, cinematographers, costume designers and more. This is considered to be The Academy’s most representative list, with members from over 57 countries invited. Nirgudkar became the 1st ever Indian to be selected in the “creative science and tech” section of the “Members – At – Large” category. Everyone at NFAI would like to congratulate him on this wonderful achievement. Nirgudkar has always strived for furthering the discourse on cinema and his insights & contributions on the NFHM are extremely valuable. A prestigious & ambitious project by the Government of India with an aim to preserve the filmic heritage of India, the NFHM is taking steps in the right direction thanks to the driven minds of people like Ujwal Nirgudkar.

GRAND FINALE OF DELLYWOOD 2017 HELD WITH MUCH FANFARE

Udaipur’s Kanisha Garg was crowned Mrs. India 2017 while Delhi’s Pratyaksha Arora became Miss India 2017. Akshay from Hyderabad bagged the title of Mr. India 2017. Celebrities like Tanaz Irani, TV actresses Kishwer Merchant, Onam Ahlawat, Poonam Jhawar were present to grace the gala event. Dellywood is one of the leading fashion organizations from Delhi, & organizer of Mr. & Miss. India, Mrs. India & Talent Hunt. Dellywood provides a platform for all aspiring models, singers, dancers and all artists who want to make a career in fashion industries. Mostly fashion means to expressing your identity, Showing others who you are through your fashion choice like clothing, accessories etc. “Mr. & Miss India 2016” was held in 53 cities from all over India. Thousands of models aspirants participate and many celebrities like Zareen Khan, Madhur Bhandarkar , Vishal Pandhya, Harshita Bhatt, Mink Brar, Priya Malik, Ranvijay, etc were the part of “Mr. & Miss India 2016”. Dellywood’s aim is to provide a platform for all models, singers, actors, etc and improve their skills and give them direction in fashion industries.

PARESH RAWAL & KARTIK AARYAN TOOK COMEDY TO NEXT LEVEL WITH GUEST IIN LONDON

Paresh Rawal is known for his exceptional performances in comedy films and has always given his fans a laughing riot with his expressions & comic timing. The veteran actor will next be seen in a comedy, Guest Iin London and this time to inflect laughter with the young actor Kartik Aaryan, who is known for his monologue performance in Pyaar Ka Punchnama franchise has gathered a lot of fans for his comic timing. Get 2 people who are known for their comedy and it’s a sure joy ride. Both Paresh Rawal & Kartik Aaryan in the film have been appreciated for the comic camaraderie. The duo from their 1st scene in the film hit it off very well and then their comic timing was seamless. Ashwni Dhir had the best time shooting with both Paresh Rawal & Kartik Aaryan, he shares, “For a comedy between 2 people the most essential element is their comic timing & their familiarity towards each other’s expression & reaction. With Pareshji & Kartik it all came naturally. Even though they have worked with each other for the 1st time ever, their comic timing & response to each other was impeccable. The entire film we have shot with tears in our eyes by laughing on their comic performance.”
SEZAL SHARMA SPOTTED WHILE DOING YOGA ON INTERNATIONAL YOGA DAY
Yoga, the ancient Indian science of acquiring a perfectly balanced body & mind, is part of the exercise regimen of many Bollywood celebrities. 21st Jun every year is celebrated as International Yoga Day. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), on 11th Dec, 2014 announced this day to celebrate yoga, as per the suggestion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Yoga is touted as a multifarious discipline that helps keep the mind & the body healthy. And, our Bollywood celebrities also vouch for it. To show off their love for yoga, Actress Sezal Sharma was spotted while doing Yoga on International Yoga Day. She flaunts her body in different poses of Yoga. Sezal Sharma quoted as saying, “Yoga didn’t just help me with my body; I also became fitter from within. It helped me to focus better. In the movies, we may look very glamorous & fit, but believe me, not many of us are actually fit from within. Yoga has helped me achieve that.”

FOX STAR STUDIOS ON THE CURRENT DISAGREEMENT BETWEEN BLINGG UNPLUGGED & THE BHANOT FAMILY
Fox Star Studios asserts that though it is extremely proud of its film Neerja and holds the Bhanot family in great esteem, the facts is that the Studio does not have any contractual obligations towards the Bhanot family as the life rights & permissions were obtained by Blingg Unplugged from the Late Neerja Bhanot’s family long before Fox Star Studios came onboard to produce the film. Fox Star Studios adds that it has been duly honoring its contractual obligations towards Blingg Unplugged. It’s unfortunate that Blingg & Bhanot family have not been able to resolve their disagreements. As the life story of Neerja Bhanot inspired the nation and the movie created history & created memories that we deeply cherish, memories that will last forever, Fox Studios hopes for quick resolution to the ongoing issue.

HARRY & SEJAL GET THEIR OWN FACEBOOK CAMERA EFFECT

The promotions of Shah Rukh Khan & Anushka Sharma starrer and Imtiaz Ali directorial Jab Harry Met Sejal have stood out for its unique marketing strategies. Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment which is also producing the film is known for their constant endeavors at exploring newer marketing innovations with each film, has started off the campaign for their latest on a high note. Their digital promotions have taken another leap by being one of the 1st few films in Bollywood, to have their very own Facebook camera effect. In one of the latest additions on Facebook features, the Facebook Stories, users can swipe left on their Facebook profile and gain access to their camera effects. They can head to the effects gallery on the bottom left corner and choose the Jab Harry Met Sejal (JHMS) camera effect. Following which users can click a picture or shoot a video and share it on their Facebook story & profile in the “Harry & Sejal” style. The poster themed effect includes elements like polaroid frames, map, ring & airplanes. Thus, reflecting the key elements of the film itself with a quirky twist to the frame and is being loved by the digital audiences. The makers have said to hit a masterstroke by adopting the strategy of releasing a series of mini trailers before each song trailer. 3 such mini trailers & the song “Radha” are already out and have garnered an amazing response. Produced by Red Chillies Entertainment, the film is slated to release on 4th Aug, 2017.

IRRFAN KHAN’S CLARIFICATION ON RECENT SERIES OF NEWS AROUND GUSTAKHIYAN

Recently all the mediums of media carried news on Irrfan Khan walking out of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s film Gustakhiyan opposite Priyanka Chopra. Below is the clarification by Irrfan Khan over these speculation. Irrfan Khan says, “I’m not sure where these rumors are coming from. I was approached for the film almost 2 years back but since then there’s been no conversation on dates, so how does the question of me not having time or walking out of the film even come from? I think that’s a mystery I would first like to solve that who are these well wishers who are speaking my mind without me even being aware.”

SUMMONS ISSUED TO RAM GOPAL VERMA ON THE COMPLAINT OF VIVEK SHETTY

On the complaint of social activist & head honcho of Indus Communications, Vivek Shetty, court of the metropolitan magistrate, Andheri has issued summons to director Ram Gopal Varma for his comments in the past against Lord Ganesha on twitter. A process was already issued earlier for the offence under section 295 (A), 505 of Indian Penal Code & 66 (A) of Information Technology Act. Ram Gopal Varma’s comments on twitter had ridiculed & poked fun at Lord Ganesha and thereby offended a large section of the Hindu community leading to a nationwide uproar. Vivek Shetty states “I am delighted by the summons issued by the honorable court, I will pursue this case to its logical conclusion and further I hope, this will go a long way in maintaining peace & harmony in society at large”

THE SURI SISTERS, NATASHA & RUPALI SURI ARE GOING PLACES!!!

The well – known supermodel Natasha Suri who will next be seen in Baa Baa Black Sheep with Anupam Kher, Annu Kapoor, Kay Kay Menon & Manish Paul & her sister Rupali Suri are going places literally. Natasha being a former Miss India World, TV Host & Supermodel, has now also forayed into Bollywood as an actor. Rupali after winning the Gladrags Mega Model contest firmly entrenched herself as a TV & Live Events Host with over 500 live shows to her credit. She is also a theatre actor with popular plays like Bottoms Up & Biwi O Biwi in her kitty. Natasha is now also a part of the web – series Inside Edge produced by Excel Entertainment on Amazon. This edgy series is based on cricket, politics, sex & power. The ensemble cast is very interesting and comprises of Vivek Oberoi, Richa Chadha, Angad Bedi, Sarah Jane Dias, Natasha Suri, Tanuj Virwani etc. With this series Natasha flares the screen with a very pivotal role where she plays a sexy, strong & powerful businesswoman. Her character is mysterious to the point where audiences will be very curious & clued in. After her successful south debut in Malayalam film King Liar, she hopes to now impress the audiences with this power laden role in this mega project.

ARJUN – PARINEETI TO RETURN IN DIBAKAR BANERJEE’S SANDEEP AUR PINKY FARAAR

5 years later, having matured as performers since their raw, intense debuts in Ishaqzaade, Arjun Kapoor & Parineeti Chopra will return onscreen for a 2nd time with Dibakar Banerjee’s next film Sandeep Aur Pinky Faraar. With a quirky title and a winsome leading pair, Sandeep Aur Pinky Faraar piques interest. The film is a story of a man & a woman who represent 2 completely different Indias. This story could happen to any of us in contemporary India. But it happens to Sandeep & Pinky. 2 more unlikely protagonists in 1 film are unimaginable. They are united in one thing only. Their mistrust, suspicion & hatred for each other. Dibakar Banerjee says, “This feels like my 1st ever film, again. I’ve had to unlearn everything I know to tell this story about a man & a woman who can’t stand each other but can’t survive without each other.” Arjun Kapoor says, “It feels great to be back home at YRF working with Adi Sir & Parineeti, my 1st ever co – actor. Dibakar Banerjee is a name synonymous with being the torchbearer of evolving new age cinema that engages & entertains. ” Parineeti Chopra adds, “I am ready to bite my teeth into this character and give the audience something intense!!!” Dibakar Banerjee had earlier made Titli & Detective Byomkesh Bakshy for Yash Raj Films.

UFO MOVIEZ’ FRANCHISE BRAND NOVA CINEMAZ UNVEILS ITS 2ND THEATRE RAJ NOVA CINEMAZ IN KARJAT, MAHARASHTRA

UFO Moviez has recently opened its franchise brand NOVA Cinemaz’ 2nd theatre Raj NOVA Cinemaz in Maharashtra. Located in Aamrai, Karjat, Raj NOVA Cinemaz, is a one stop entertainment destination for the local movie buffs and features 2 screens and has 338 seats in total. It offers a mix of Bollywood, Hollywood & regional movies, all under one roof. Raj NOVA Cinemaz leverages UFO Moviez’ existing strength in industry relationships and its unmatched ability to seamlessly distribute film content in remote areas. Vishnu Patel, CEO – Special Projects, UFO Moviez says, “Raj NOVA Cinemaz is dedicated to provide our patrons with an unrivaled movie watching experience.”T Mohanraj, Proprietor says, “Raj NOVA Cinemaz is very conveniently located in Karjat and boasts of contemporary technology & world – class amenities, making it an ideal cinema destination for the movie enthusiasts.”NOVA Cinemaz, an asset – light franchisee model is envisaged to stabilize the demand – supply gap in the local cinema business. The aim of NOVA is to make the movie – going experience affordable, entertaining & accessible. NOVA Cinemaz will encourage local entrepreneurs to own & operate Nova branded theatres in varied parts of the country. As per the arrangement, the franchisee shall make the primary investment and UFO shall ensure that the theatre is set up at a competitive cost.

ONIR’S SHAB GETS “A” CERTIFICATE BY CBFC!!!

National award winning filmmaker Onir is elated that his upcoming relationship drama Shab featuring 2 newcomers Ashish Bisht & Arpita Chatterjee & Raveena Tandon has got thumbs – up from the censor board of film certification (CBFC) with no cuts at all. Onir says, “I am delighted that my film has been left untouched, and pleasantly surprised that the CBFC asked for no cuts. Of course, it’s an “adult” film with adult situation. So it’s been appropriately certified.” Onir was apprehensive about the CBFC response. He says, “I thought they’d ask for visual cuts. but they didn’t, only a few negligible audio cuts that i am happily making because if the CBFC had not cut anything, I’d have felt really insecure.” Shab starring Raveena Tandon along with debutant actors Ashish Bisht & Arpita Chatterjee has been produced by Sanjay Suri, Bhavna Talwar, Onir & Mohan T. Mulani.

ATHIYA SHETTY SIZZLES WITH HER STUNNING DANCE MOVES IN ‘MUBARAKAN’S TITLE SONG!!!

Athiya Shetty is eagerly awaiting the release of the family entertainer, Mubarakan starring Anil Kapoor, Arjun Kapoor & Ileana D’Cruz. The talented actress who has impressed the audiences & the critics alike with her debut act also proved her dancing prowess. The actress has raised the style quotient in Mubarakan’s latest title song. The young star was excited to share screen space with her co – stars Anil Kapoor & Arjun Kapoor in the promotional peppy track, choreographed by her favorite Bosco that made it easier for her to perform. The title song touted as the next party starter shows Athiya dancing away to the peppy beats. Sporting a hot dress, the gorgeous actress has been praised for her swift & flexible moves. She certainly becomes the show – stealer of this song. The actress has a passion for dance and has worked very hard to keep improving her dancing skills. Athiya’s desi moves have got everyone swooning all over her.

WHEN DINO MET DEPP!!!

When Dino Morea went to London for a holiday, he had not envisaged that he would be meeting Johnny Depp and having a fun time. Says Dino, “Johnny Depp, his career, his style, his acting, all of it have me absolutely star – stuck. Whether be it television 21 Jump Street or his films, I simply love him.” Dino feels that Johnny Depp infuses something different into every single character he essays and admits he loves most of them. “Fear And Loathing, Blow, Donnie Brasco, Pirtaes Of The Caribbean, Charlie And The Chocolate Factory… there is something new in every character, whether it is the look, the nuances, the speech, he never ceases to amaze me. The experience has left an indelible mark in Dino’s heart, “that couple of hours are something that I would always cherish.” We spoke about so many different fun life experiences, movies, characters… I could go on & on… Honestly, he is a mega star, but so chilled & down – to – earth.”What about the future? Is there a film in store?” I didn’t even think I’ll be meeting him. I did. Anything can happen in the future. One never knows.”

SURAJ KUMAR TO MAKE HIS ACTING DEBUT IN GUJARATI FILM
Every year Gujarati cinema produces some new talents to the film industry, some make a successful debut and some tastes success after some struggles. There are few actors who made a successful debut in the industry. Not only did they got appreciation for their work but also got good numbers at the Box – Office turnstiles. One of the most loved person coming out from Gujarat, Suraj Kumar is all set to debut as an actor with upcoming Gujarati film Hu Tara Ishq Ma. The film was announced in Ahmedabad. Hu Tara Ishq Ma is a romantic love story & musical film and will be directed by Raj Boricha & produced by Blue Diamond Production House Suraj is playing lead role in the movie. Suraj Kumar said, “It is my 1st ever Gujarati film and I am really proud of it as it’s my mother tongue too, technically I have a different kind of attachment to it. I’m really excited about this and looking forward to start the shooting of film”.

MUSIC DIRECTOR VICKEY PRASAD IS ALL SET TO GO PLACES WITH TOILET EK PREM KATHA

Vickey Prasad, who hails from Buxar, Bihar and completed his studies from North East says that he used to write poetry since very young age. Vickey tried his best to learn music but faced failure due financial condition up to 12th standard and decided to move to Delhi to do P.G. Diploma in sound engineering along with music production course. In Feb, 2012 he moved to Mumbai, after trying to make some contacts via face book. I started contacting people and did meetings for 3 months, but realizing the financial crisis, he decided to get a job in KFC for 1 & half month. As it was like a nightmare for him, he left the job after collecting his salary and promised myself that if he earns even a single rupee in his life it will be from music”. Within a week Vickey got his 1st project as a music arranger. On 4th Oct, 2017 he received a call from Friday Films and one of his mentors named Manoj Rajdutt asked him to come to the given address. “With the grace of God & blessings of elders, I got the chance which every struggling musician only dreams of”.

Hyder Kazmi’s “Jihad” Bags International Recognition By Running Into The Finale Selection Of Toronto International Film Festival & “Jihad” Is Also The Official Selection Of Los Angeles Film Festival

Actor – producer – director Hyder Kazmi’s most talked about & highly controversial film titled “Jihad” had earlier won a lot of critical acclaim and audiences appreciative responses beyond imagination. And now Hyder Kazmi’s “Jihad” has added one more feather in its crown, as “Jihad” has now run into the grand finale selection list as an official entry for the Toronto International Film Festival. That apart “Jihad” is also the official selection entry for the upcoming Los Angeles Film Festival. Hyder Kazmi is now not only on cloud 9 but he is also all set to fly off to Toronto to attend the Toronto Internatonal Film Festival as an official guest.