Mumbai Actor Nana Patekar on Monday cancelled a press conference where he was due to address the sexual harassment allegations levelled against him by actress Tanushree Dutta.

The media was informed about the cancellation by Nana’s son Malhar.

The text message, sent out late on Sunday, read: “Just wanted to inform that there’s no press conference tomorrow… Will let you know about the further proceedings soon.”

The press conference was to be held for Nana to address Tanushree’s accusation of his misbehaviour on the set of a 2008 film.

In an interview in September, in the context of her opinion on #MeToo Movement and sexual harassment against women in Bollywood, Tanushree spoke out her personal experience of facing it at the hands of Nana on the set of “Horn ‘OK’ Pleassss” in 2008.

Last week, Tanushree also filed a written complaint on the same at the Oshiwara police station here.

“Nana Patekar’s behaviour was inappropriate towards me, he was on the set despite (the fact) his work in the song was over. He grabbed me by the arm and pushed me towards him around on the pretext of teaching me how to dance,” read one part of the complaint.

On his part, Nana has consistently denied the accusation.

In 2008 too, he had held a conference to dismiss the allegations.

And just last week, on being confronted by the media, he said he had answered the questions about it 10 years ago.

“Jhooth toh jhooth hi hai (a lie is a lie),” Nana said.

(IANS)

A Grand Mahurat Of Hollywood Film ‘He Is Back’ Held In Dubai

Showtimes Cinema & SBM Studios in Association with Ninjoor Pictures recently rolled out their ambitious international venture titled He Is Back!

Produced by Suresh Sharma who last produced the gritty drama Halla Bol & Suresh Babu Malge who also produced many movies & directed by Cheetah Yajnesh Shetty who helmed Hum Tumpe Marte Hain.

Incidentally speaking He Is Back was launched in Dubai where the who’s who of the world were present.

The movie was inaugurated with the lamp lighting by Her Royal Excellency Of Thailand Mom Luang Rajadarasri Jayankura, Kirsan Ilyumzhinov, Former President of the Republic of Kalmykia in the Russian Federation & Prince Firooz Alexander Sefre, Member of the Royal Institute of British Architects Chartered Architect Riba, England.

The other eminent guests were Edmond Avakian, Thomas Fung, Fatemah Hossain Zamani & Lazar Jakovljevic.

Inspired by Bruce Lee, the movie revolves around the theme of how a poor boy changes the world! The film introduces Abb Li in the lead role who happens to be a big worshiper of Bruce Lee. It is learnt that Abb Li is such a loyal follower of Bruce Lee that he has transformed his body also to Bruce Lee style.

The movie also introduces actress Aline Ilyumzhinov in the lead role along with an ensemble cast of Hollywood biggies!

Story by Chitah Yajnesh Shetty & sound by Resul Pukutty, the film has screenplay & dialogues by David White and involves big international names in the movie making business including DOP Ross Clarkson & world renowned action director Kecha Khampakdee.

Southern filmmaker Rockline Venkatesh gave the clap & Dr. B R Shetty, Abu Dhabhi switched on the camera. AmarjIt Shetty is the co- producer of the film & William Bond is the executive producer.

Sui Dhaaga – Made In India Is A Heart Touching Story Told Beautifully

Banner: Yash Raj Films
Producer: Adiya Chopra
Director: Sharat Kataria
Star Cast: Varun Dhawan, Anushka Sharma, Raghuveer Yadav, Yamini Das, Sawan Tank, Manukriti Patwa, Siddharth Bhardawaj, Ashish Verma, Namit Das, Bhupesh Singh, Govind Pandey, Harleen Bedi & above all Katrina Kaif
Music: Anu Malik & Andrea Guerra

Director Sharat Kataria’s 1st ever outing Dum Laga Ke Haisa was a sincere movie & now in his 2nd outing
Sui Dhaaga – Made In India once again Sharat Kataria delivers a very heart touching film.

Since more than a decade, filmmakers have been increasingly setting their stories in the heartland of India. This gives the film an authentic & realistic touch and also helps the film get a wider appeal. More number of people watch such films, provided they are told in a simple & entertaining manner, as they could relate to such stories more than the ones set in urban or foreign regions. Sui Dhaaga – Made In India, is not only based in a village, it also makes some important comments about social entrepreneurship for the social & the economic development of the rural artisans.

The scripted scenario of Sui Dhaaga – Made In India opens with a heartwarming story of pride & self-reliance of Mauji (Varun Dhawan), who stays in a village near Delhi with his wife Mamta (Anushka Sharma), father (Raghubir Yadav) & mother (Yamini Das). Mauji works at a shop that sells sewing machines, owned by Bansal (Sidharth Bhardwaj) & his son Prashant (Ashish Verma). Both have a habit of ill-treating Mauji and make him do fun antics. When Prashant gets married, Bansal invites Mauji & his entire family. Mamta feels humiliated when she sees Mauji being asked to imitate a dog by the Bansal’s. Mamta encourages him to start his own business, especially since he is a pro at sewing. However, Mauji’s grandfather was a tailor who had faced immense losses. Hence, his father vowed never to get into this business again. Mauji at first rejects Mamta’s suggestion but later leaves his job and puts a stall on the streets in Delhi. On the other hand, Mauji’s mother falls down in their house and she’s hospitalized. The tests reveal that she has multiple blockages in her heart. The family is already having a hand-to-mouth existence and Mauji’s mother’s hospitalization further add to their woes. Moreover, Mauji has left his job as well. What happens next forms the rest of the crux of the story of Sui Dhaaga – Made In India.

Sharat Katariya’s story is simple and the need of the hour. It reminds one of the films of yesteryear director Hrishikesh Mukherjee and gives a nice ode to that kind of adorable cinema. Sharat Katariya’s screenplay however is much more impressive. He does total justice to the characters & the setting and also keeps the viewers involved. However, unlike his previous outing Dum Laga Ke Haisha (2015) which had plenty of funny moments, Sui Dhaaga – Made In India is more dramatic. There’s not much scope for humor and a section of audiences might miss that. Sharat Katariya’s dialogues are witty and play a major part in contributing to the laughter quotient.

Sharat Katariya’s direction is brilliant and enhances the well written script. He could have made the film a bit tighter & less convenient & predictable but thankfully these are the minor flaws.
Sui Dhaaga – Made In India’s 1st ever shot is very impressive and captures a lot simply in one take. After establishing the characters & the setting, the film wastes no time in getting on point soon. The hospital sequence is lovely but in the 1st ever half, what takes the cake is the pre-interval sequence. A point to be noted is how the makers raise the tension levels!
In the 2nd half, the film drops a bit. Also the manner in which Mamta & Mauji get shortlisted for the fashion tournament seems a bit convenient. But the finale makes up for it & the film is sure to leave viewers with a smile.

Anu Malik’s music goes very well with the film, although it’s not of a chartbuster variety. The title song comes at a very crucial juncture and makes an impact. “Chaav Laaga” is melodious. “Khatar Patar” & “Tu Hi Aham” are situational songs & work. “Sab Badhiya Hai” is missing from the film. Andrea Guerra’s background score is in sync with the film’s mood & is also subtle.

Anil Mehta’s cinematography is too good & doesn’t get lost in capturing the simplicity of the village or the glitz & glamour of the city life. The lensmen captures only what’s essential. Meenal Agarwal’s production design is realistic. Darshan Jalan & Neelanchal Kumar Ghosh’s costume designers deserve brownie points as it’s one of the pillars of the film. Charu Shree Roy’s editing is simple & neat.

Performance wise Sui Dhaaga – Made In India belongs to Varun Dhawan & Anushka Sharma. Both actors deliver powerhouse performances. Varun Dhawan looks every inch a village simpleton and is sure to be loved. He plays his part with earnesty and that shows. Notice his reaction when the Bansal’s force him to act like a dog and how he beautifully hides his embarrassment. Also in the climax scene especially in the hotel lobby sequence, he’s too good. Anushka Sharma gets mentioned before Varun Dhawan in the opening credits and has a very crucial part to enact. One forgets that she is THE Anushka Sharma and gives her 100%. In a scene where she asks her mother-in-law if she’s fine and whether she liked the hospital, the actress seems so natural. Raghubir Yadav gives a very touching performance. Towards the finale especially, he’s sure to make the viewers teary-eyed. Yamini Das plays her part perfectly, especially in the hospital scenes. Puja Sarup (Harleen Bedi) leaves a huge mark. The same goes for Namit Das (Guddu). Bhupesh Singh (Naushad) is damn good. The actors playing Majnu, Majnu’s wife, Palteram and others are also very good.

On the whole, Sui Dhaaga – Made In India is a simple tale told beautifully with strong emphasis on emotions.
Tail Piece: At the box office turnstiles, the film will have to rely on a very good word of mouth publicity to attract audiences. It also had an extended 5 day weekend of sorts (with 2nd Oct, 2018 being a National Holiday). Hence, the film would surely have a healthy run at the Box – Office turnstiles cash counters and would prove more profitable or should we say “badhiya” for the producers. Recommended!

7th Dharamshala International Film Fest To Be Held At Mcleod Ganj From 1st Nov 2018 To 4th Nov 2018

The 7th Dharamshala International Film Fest (DIFF) will take place from 1st Nov, 2018 to 4th Nov 2018 in the beautiful mountain town of McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, home of His Holiness the Dalai Lama & the meeting point of a rich & cosmopolitan mix of people & cultures.

Dharamshala International Film Fest (DIFF) is presented by White Crane Arts & Media, a trust founded by filmmakers Ritu Sarin & Tenzing Sonam to promote contemporary cinema, art & independent media practices in the Himalayan regions of India.

The 1st ever edition of Dharamshala International Film Fest (DIFF) was held in the year 2012. Since then, it has established itself as one of India’s leading independent film fest’s. The Dharamshala International Film Fest’s cutting-edge & eclectic programming, which includes many India premieres, and its policy of inviting as many directors as possible has made it one of the go-to events in any cinephile’s calendar. Last year, the films & side programmes at Dharamshala International (DIFF) attracted a viewership of around 6000, of which at least 60% were from out of town from places as far away as Kerala, Bangalore, Hyderabad & Mumbai. Some of India’s best-known film critics & journalists from leading media houses were on hand to cover the event.

This year, for the 3rd time in a row, the fest will take place in the peaceful environs of the Tibetan Children’s Village, a short distance from McLeod Ganj. Along with the 2 existing auditoriums at the school, this year DIFF is excited to partner with Delhi based PictureTime to set up a mobile digital theatre with state-of-the-art projection facilities at the festival venue.

Festival Director Ritu Sarin says, “We endeavor to bring a slate of unusual & trailblazing narrative, docu & short films from around the world, as well as showcasing some of the best recent Indian independent cinema, making it a rich experience for our audience.”

Fest directors Ritu Sarin & Tenzing are delighted with the way Dharamshala International Film Fest (DIFF) has evolved over the years and are determined to consolidate & improve upon the standards set by previous editions. Ritu Sarin says, “A fest like Dharamshala International Film Fest (DIFF), taking place in a small town with very few resources & no cinema tradition as such, requires the support & dedication of numerous individuals & organizations, as well as interns & volunteers whose enthusiasm & passion are the engine that drives our fest’s. I am grateful to our long-term collaborators Thyssen-Bornemsiza Art Contemporary, the Himachal Pradesh Government who is supporting us through its Departments of Tourism & Language, Arts & Culture, and our many partners, including the National Film Development Corporation, PictureTime, Wishberry & Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films.

Preliminary highlights from this year’s selection of films include: Boom For Real (Sara Driver, USA, 2018), Sara Driver’s docu drama follows the pre-fame years of celebrated American artist Jean – Michael Basquiat & how New York City, the times, the people & its tectonically shifting arts culture of the late 1970’s & 1980’s shaped his vision, Father To Son (Hsiao Ya-Chuan, Taiwan, 2018), Hsiao Ya-Chuan’s official selection for the 47th International Film Fest Rotterdam (IFFR) takes its viewers through 2 unknown journeys of self-reconciliation, In the Intense Now (João Moreira Salles, Brazil, 2017). A Panorama selection at the 2017 Berlinale Film Festival, In the Intense Now is an immersive retelling of the Paris uprisings, the Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia & the Cultural Revolution in China using newsreel clips & home movies found through the late 1960’s, Little Forest (YIM Soon-Rye, South Korea, 2018), YIM Soon-Rye of The Whistleblower & Forever The Moment fame, makes her return to the celluloid silver screen with a coming-of-age story based on the 2002 Japanese manga of the same name, by Daisuke Igarashi, A Long Way Home (Luc Schaedler, Switzerland, 2018), A never-before heard or seen glimpse into the lives of 5 significant representatives of contemporary Chinese counterculture, including the famous Gao Brothers, who shed light on the social problems in their country through their own unique perspective, bravery & wit, Namme (Zaza Khalvashi, Georgia/Lithuania, 2017), Zaza Khalvashi’s art fantasy drama is Georgia’s official entry to the Oscars 2019, Inspired by Georgian literature & folklore, Namme narrates the story of 1 family’s mission to take care of a local healing water & treat fellow sick villagers with it, The Red Phallus (Tashi Gyeltshen, Bhutan, 2018), Bhutanese director Tashi Gyemtshen’s stunning debut, The Red Phallus, takes place in the gloomy & remote central Bhutan valley of Phobjika, where 16-year-old life with her widower father, a traditional painter & craftsman specialized in making wooden phalluses. Her dark secret comes back to haunt her.

Ryuichi Sakamoto: Coda (Stephen Nomura Schible, USA/Japan, 2017), An insight into the life & legacy of the legendary Japanese composer, Ryuichi Sakamoto: Coda is an intimate portrait of both the artist & the man & movingly captures the creative process.

Balekempa (Ere Gowda, India, 2018)
FIPRESCI award winner at the International Film Fest Rotterdam 2018, Balekempa tells the story of unspoken desires & relationships that cluster around the lives of Kempanna, the bangle seller & his wife set in Karnataka’s close-knit patriarchal community.

Ee.Ma.Yau (Lijo Jose Pellissery, India, 2018), Cult Kerala filmmaker Lijo Jose Pellissery of Angamaly Diaries fame returns with a black comedy set in the coastal village of Chellanam, Kochi.

Raghu Rai: An Unframed Portrait (Avani Rai, India/Finland, 2018), This intimate portrait of one of the world’s greatest photographers made its world premiere at the International Documentary Film Fest, Amsterdam, in Nov, 2017. The story of Raghu Rai & his India is told through the eyes of his own rebel daughter during their travels in & around Kashmir.

One of Dharamshala International Film Fest primary goals is to promote & encourage filmmaking in Himachal Pradesh. This year’s Spotlight on Himachal includes the North Indian premiere of Ridham Janve’s The Gold-Laden Sheep & the Sacred Mountain, a Gaddi-language feature film set in the Dhauladhar mountains with a cast of non-professional Gaddi shepherds. The director & his cast will present the film in person. Shimla based filmmaker Siddharth Chauhan will also present his much-lauded short film, Pashi.

Dharamshala International Film Fest (DIFF) is proud to announce that this year, the Dharamshala International Film Fest (DIFF) Film Fellows initiative, which was established in the year 2014, will focus specifically on up & coming filmmakers from Himachal Pradesh. This is supported by HP Government’s Department of Language, Arts & Culture. 5 filmmakers will be selected & mentored by renowned National Award-winning filmmaker Gurvinder Singh & award-winning documentary filmmaker Anupama Srinivasan.

This year, Dharamshala International Film Fest (DIFF) is also thrilled to host the 1st ever Dharamshala-PJLF Editing Workshop. This initiative is supported by NFDC. 2 director-editor teams will be selected from across the country & mentored by internationally renowned editor Jacques Comets who co-headed the editing department at France’s leading film school, La Femis, along with editor & Artistic Director of the Kerala International Film Fest, Bina Paul & producer & script/editing mentor Olivia Stewart.

Dharamshala International Film Fest (DIFF) has always recognized the importance of short films as a category in its own right and this year, for the 5th year in a row, filmmaker Umesh Kulkarni has curated a selection of the best of current Indian shorts. In addition, Dharamshala International Film Fest (DIFF) is partnering with Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films to present a package of short films. The popular Dharamshala International Film Fest (DIFF) Children’s Film Programme is once again curated by Children’s Media Specialist, Monica Wahi.

Kartik Aaryan Sets The Ramp On Fire

MUFTI, the largest Indian denim brand, unveiled its exceptional Autumn Winter 2018 Collection at its one-of-its-kind fashion show recently. The evening witnessed eclectic designs & creativity which are sure to storm the world of fashion, style & glamour. Letting his statement outfit do all the talking,
Kartik Aaryan, Bollywood actor & MUFTI brand ambassador, walked the ramp in his stunning ensemble comprising of a stylish black leather jacket, paired with an exquisite pair of white jeans and a trendy white T- Shirt.

With this iconic fashion show, MUFTI, celebrated the massive milestone of completing 2 decades in the fashion industry. It personified sophistication, verve & style. Models strutted the ramp showcasing the spectacular range of ensembles that signified exceptional designs, innovation, high-quality fabrics & above all, comfort of being yourself.

Speaking about the grand success of the fashion show, Kamal Khushlani, Founder & Managing Director, MUFTI said, “We are elated to have commemorated 2 decades of MUFTI with a bang. The marquee fashion show & on-boarding Kartik Aryan as our 1st ever brand ambassador was the perfect way to celebrate this glorious occasion. We strongly believe in providing an alternative dressing solution that doesn’t conform to the norm. Our Autumn Winter 2018 Collection is trendy, comfortable & enables our consumers to stand out in the crowd. It is heartening to see the overwhelming response the collection has received. We are confident that our unparalleled design & creativity will enable us to continue delivering breakthrough fashion trends.”
Sharing his experience of gliding the ramp as the showstopper & MUFTI’s 1st ever brand ambassador, Kartik Aryan said, “I’m thrilled to be associated with MUFTI, a brand that inspires youth to be unique & set their own trends.”

After the extraordinary showcase of creativity & style, the evening witnessed a high-octane after-party, attended by the crème-de-la-crème of the fashion world. The MUFTI Autumn Winter 2018 collection is now available across stores.
MUFTI was launched in 1998 by 1st generation entrepreneur Kamal Khushlani with one driving ambition, to provide an alternative dressing solution that didn’t conform to the “uniform” codes of mainstream fashion.
Since its inception, MUFTI has evolved as a denim casual wear brand & band currently retails through 275 EBO’s (Exclusive Brand Outlets) pan India, 1200 MBO’s (Multi-Brand Outlets), 110 LFS’s (Large Format Stores like Shoppers Stop & Central) and is also present on all major e-commerce portals including its own website offering a product portfolio comprising of Shirts, Jeans, Trousers, T -Shirts, Shorts, Blazers & Winterwear/Outerwear.
Looking to provide a holistic lifestyle dressing solution, MUFTI also launched footwear recently with the same ethos, to provide an alternative choice which is young, casual yet comfortable.
The brand has over 600 employees on its direct payroll and indirectly employs over 2000 people.

New Delhi Not religion, not culture, progress is what matters, says cine icon Kamal Haasan, who has embarked on a journey in politics. He says people in India are busy debating trivial issues whereas the need of the hour is to rise above them.

Haasan has always been vocal about the need to steer away from the politics of caste and religion. So, how important is it to address the real issues?

“It is very important. We have lost that dialogue. We are talking about everything else… We are trying to prove a point which does not exist. We are debating things that don’t matter at all,” Haasan told IANS in an exclusive interview here while opening up about his decision to enter politics, his aspirations, his vision for the country and about contesting the Lok Sabha elections.

“Yes, keep your religion, keep your culture, but progress as a nation is much more important than these debates. We are giving knee-jerk reactions to things which are not useful in everyday life or for the future generation. We (his party) are making that the focal point and that is what you have to talk about. The younger India is ready to talk about such issues,” he added.

The 63-year-old actor took the political plunge by launching his Makkal Needhi Maiam party on February 21 in Madurai. In just 48 hours, 201,597 people registered to join the Tamil film icon’s party.

Change can only come with unity, feels Haasan.

“Progress can’t be just my vision. It has to be a collective vision. You can take the example of China. Almost 30 years back, China had all the problems that we have, even much worse. And they changed it with will. But then you say it was only dictatorship that responsible for it. I beg to disagree.

“America was not a dictatorship. There were many voices pulling in all directions, and still progress happened.”

The actor, who entered the film industry when he was just three, continued: “(Things change) when people take the onus of building the nation, not just a few contracted people designated by the larger crowd, who are themselves busy going about their everyday chores or trying to reach office on time. They have to spend some time to build the nation.”

Citing an example from India’s long fight for freedom, the actor said: “In the 1940s, people were not ‘bekaar’ (useless). They had their jobs, they had their professions, they had to earn their everyday bread, but they still had time for freedom. Now, the second freedom struggle has started.”

Is he planning to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections?

“Well, anything which is good for Tamil Nadu is the way I see (things). Whichever direction it takes me… I will go and seek the opportunity and seize the day,” he said without dismissing the possibility completely.

The charismatic Tamil cine hero has done over 200 films in Tamil, Hindi, Telugu and Malayalam. He is known for projects like “Appu Raja”, “Hey Ram”, “Dashavatar”, “Ek Duuje Ke Liye”, “Sagara Sangamam”, “Sadma”, “Thevar Magan”, “Chachi 420” and “Vishwaroopam” and “Vishwaroop 2”.

The Hindi version of “Vishwaroop 2”, presented by Rohit Shetty and the Anil Ambani-led Reliance Entertainment, released in August.

After spending so many years in the industry, Haasan avers he will be quitting acting for politics. Asked whether he is planning to manage both, he said: “I shouldn’t do both the things.”

“My advice to the actor (in me) is to step aside because there is much more work to do. I loved the actor. I have lived with him for 58 years, but I have to move to people and that is more important.”

(IANS)

Bollywood Celebs Attended 4th Bright Awards & Birthday Celebration Of Yogesh Lakhani

On 25th Sept, 2018 most of the Bollywood Celebs attended 2 most prestigious event namely the 4th Bright Awards Ceremony & the birthday celebration of evergreen Yogesh Lakhani of Bright Outdoors Media at the NSCI Dome, Worli, Mumbai.
Yes! Just last week Yogesh Lakhani of Bright Outdoor Media had organized his very own grand birthday party couple with the 4th Bright Awards at NSCI Dome, Worli Mumbai where he had invited TV & Film stars along with his very own corporate clients.

Bollywood Celebs like Ritesh Deshmukh, Ranbir Kapoor, Sharman Joshi, Ranvir Singh, Rakhi Sawant, Ragini Khanna, Astrologer Pawan Kaushik, Poonam Pandey, Vijay Darda, Aslam Shaikh, Tanisha Singh, Meet Brothers, Armaan Malik, Ganesh Acharya and others came to attend the award and wish happy birthday to Yogesh Lakhani of Bright Outdoors Media.

Actress Monica Bedi, Ekta Jain, Shree Rajput, Sanchiti Sakat, Jash from USA, Shabab Sabri, Yash Wadali & Shibani Kashyap performed for this grand event. Well known astrologer Pawan Kaushik came specially from Delhi to attend this award function. Amruta Fadnavis officially launched the poster of Marathi film Patil.

Anushka Sharma Reveals Her Love For Chanderi In Sui Dhaaga – Made In India

Anushka Sharma plays a sincere, ambitious embroiderer from the heartland of India in Yash Raj Film’s entertainer Sui Dhaaga – Made in India releasing tomorrow.

Anushka’s character in the film Sui Dhaaga – Made In India becomes self-reliant by using her talent of embroidering & makes a name for herself in her community along with her husband, Mauji, who is a tailor.

Together from being unemployed, they become success stories by putting their skills to good use.

While prepping for her role as Mamta in the film, Anushka Sharma was deeply moved with the skills, dreams & aspirations of the weavers & the artisans from rural India.

“Anushka was shooting in Chanderi for Sui Dhaaga – Made In India and one day she requested the team to set up a meeting with the local weavers. Chanderi weavers are known the world over & their skill is admired & raved. Anushka met up with some of the weavers & heard their life stories which were truly inspirational.”

Anushka then expressed her fascination for Chanderi sarees & requested them to bring their collections. She spent a couple of hours with them looking through their designs & to their huge surprise, she bought around 35 Chanderi sarees from them! She shopped for her family, took some for gifting. She also bought a lot for herself. In her own way, Anushka would be spreading the life stories of these talented weavers with her immediate family & friends. She has also taken down all their phone numbers for future.”

Sui Dhaaga – Made In India brings together National Award winning producer-director combo of Maneesh Sharma & Sharat Katariya after their blockbuster Dum Laga Ke Haisha. The film is a special salute to the inherent entrepreneurial spirit that the youths of India & our local artisans have.

A film about finding love & respect through self-reliance, Varun Dhawan is paired opposite Anushka Sharma who plays an embroiderer in the film. Both champion actors, Varun Dhawan & Anushka Sharma have been paired for the 1st time ever and are definitely the most-awaited on-screen jodis of the year 2018.

Yash Raj Films’ entertainer Sui Dhaaga – Made in India is all set to release on 28th Sept this year, just before Gandhi Jayanti.

Varun Mitra Gets Inspiration From Real Life For His Character In ‘Jalebi’

Varun Mitra will soon be seen making his debut in Vishesh Films’ Jalebi. The actor will be seen playing the role of the tour guide in the film. What’s interesting is that the actor has hosted a couple of travel shows. This certainly helped the actor prep for his role. Talking about the same, the actor says, “For a travel show most of the time there is no script. It’s all spontaneous what happens. There is no plan as such, which according to me is what makes it fun to watch. Our film obviously had a script, but having been a travel show host, made it easier to bring that spontaneity to Dev’s character without losing the essence of the script.”

Debutante Karan Kapadia’s ‘Blank’ To Release On 11th Jan 2019!

Dimple Kapadia’s nephew & late actress-designer Simple Kapadia’s son Karan Kapadia, is all set to make his Bollywood debut early next year! The youngest member of the Kapadia family will be seen in the film titled as ‘Blank’! The action packed thriller, titled ‘Blank’ which also stars Sunny Deol in a pivotal role is all set to hit the celluloid silver screen on 11th Jan, 2019. Carnival Motion Pictures & EaseMyTrip.com present, an Echelon Production, produced by Dr. Shrikant Bhasi, Nishant Pitti, Tony D’souza & Vishal Rana, Blank starring Sunny Deol & Karan Kapadia in lead roles, directed by Behzad Khambata is all set to release on 11th Jan, 2019.

India’s 1st Ever Fashion Channel, Indian Fashion TV Launched By Vision Corporation Ltd

Vision corporation Ltd had launched the Asia’s 1st ever Fashion Television Channel, Indian Fashion TV which will showcase the culture Of Indian Fashion globally. The event was attended by Varsha Usgaanvkar, Kishori Shahane, Jaywant Wadkar, Vijay Kadam, A. K. Mishra
(Chairman), S. Ramakrishnan (CFO) Vishal Desai (director) et al. On the occasion of the channel launch the Chairman of Vision corporation Ltd A K Mishra said, “I am proud & honored to launch the country’s 1st ever & only fashion channel of Asia, Indian fashion TV, from varied metro cities to rural areas, attracting different aspects of Indian fashion & culture. Hope the viewers will love Indian fashion TV. India has a diversified culture. From north to south or east to west one can easily differentiate with the fashion style, culture, designs & trends. As India is a land of monuments & designers often get inspired by their designs also. Many international designers get inspired by India’s background. This channel will surely prove to be a great platform for the budding designers as well”.

Yrf’s ‘Thugs Of Hindostan’ To Release Worldwide On 8th Nov 2018

YRF’s forthcoming Diwali extravaganza Thugs Of Hindostan will be the biggest release that Bollywood has ever seen. This mega-action film has achieved a casting coup in the history of Bollywood by bringing together 2 of the biggest icons of Hindi cinema namely Big B & Aamir Khan for the 1st time ever. YRF has now unveiled the logo of this action entertainer & announced the release date as 8th Nov, 2918 a national holiday. Thugs of Hindostan also stars Katrina Kaif & Fatima Sana Shaikh. It has been directed by Vijay Krishna Acharya & promises to deliver a never-seen-before cinematic experience on the celluloid silver screen big screen this Diwali.

Rohit Pathak Started Shooting His Next Movie ‘Bakrid’

Rohit Pathak who got fame through blockbuster movie Theeran, has a very busy schedule in Tamil Cinema, he has started shooting of his next Tollywood project Bakrid staring Vikranth under the Banner of M -10 production house. Co-Director Hariharakrishnan Ramalingam (of Theeran fame) strongly recommended Rohit Pathak for this film. says Rohit Pathak, “While I was narrated the story I really liked the subject and I instantly said yes because these days very rarely you will find such cinema. The story is very beautiful & I’m playing a very important role, a complete different character. I can’t discuss much about the subject at this point of time, but would definitely say that this film would take the Indian Cinema to a completely different level. I would like to thank my director Jegadeesan Subu & Producer M. S. Murugaraj from the bottom of my heart for casting me & making me part of such a wonderful subject”.

Varun Dhawan – Anushka Sharma Signed

Varun Dhawan & Anushka Sharma, through their film Sui Dhaaga – Made in India are saluting India’s entrepreneurs & skilled workforce, especially homegrown artisans, craftspeople & weavers who are making the country proud the world over. The Sui Dhaaga stars have been signed on to promote & endorse the Skill India Mission, chaired by the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Varun Dhnawan & Anushka Sharma, the star cast of the film, have partnered Skill India & will dedicate time to promote India’s skilled talent & their fine work by engaging with them across different parts of the country. Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas & Minister of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, said, “Varun Dhawan & Anushka Sharma, through this unique film Sui Dhaaga – Made in India, are bringing to focus the incredible skills & talent of our homegrown artisan & craftsmen community. I wish this endorsement by both the actors encourages & influences the youth to take up skilled training & earn a better livelihood for themselves & also help us in creating the New India envisioned by Honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.” Varun Dhawan said, “Prime Minister Modi has displayed incredible vision & genuine foresight in aiming to organise, skill, training & give financial support & backing to our craftsmen, artisans & similar workmen.” Anushka Sharma added, “While making Sui Dhaaga, we came across so many stories of talented, skilled crafts people & artisans who don’t get a fair chance to showcase their talents.”

From Cooking On Set To A Takeaway Joint, Sakett Saawhney Gets Into The Culinary Circuit

Producer Sakett Saawhney is coming up with a takeaway joint. But very few know that the idea behind the venture actually came up while he was shooting a film. “I used to cook during the filming of Zanjeer. We had this tradition that in each shoot schedule, one HOD / artist would cook & get food for the crew. Apoorva, Ram Charan, Sanju Sir & I all took turns & cooked food & had it on the sets. This is where cooking struck to me as an unexpected hobby. Over the years, it grew into a passion. In times of stress, I would take up cooking and it ended up being really therapeutic. I also host “Cook Up Nights” with a few friends over & make them have new recipes from time to time. At one of these food nights, an old college friend of my wife – Ritesh Patel, who has dabbled in a few hospitality ventures inquired if I was interested in transiting this passion professionally & I jumped up at the thought and the idea of a Take Away Restaurant took shape. It’s named Big Bang Cuurry & it’s going to be an Order in / Take Away Restaurant to start with, which will operate from evenings into the wee hours. It will be serving Indian Cuisine,” he says. Celebrities who are supporting his venture on social media include Ekta Kapoor, Anita Hassanandani, Shabir Ahluwalia, Kanchi Singh, Gaurav Gera, Mona Singh, Rai Laxmi, Arjun Bijlani, Rithvik Dhanjani, Jay Bhanushali, Mahhi Vij, Kashmera Shah, Karan Patel, Pooja Gor et al.

Surekha Sikri Returns To The Celluloid Silver Screen With ‘Badhaai Ho’!

Badhaai Ho directed by Amit Ravindernath Sharma, is giving the industry many reasons to celebrate – Apart from catching everyone’s attention with its interesting subject & entertaining trailer that gives us a sneak peak of the fun in store, the family comedy also marks veteran actress Surekha Sikri’s return to the celluloid silver screen. Surekha Sikri essays the role of Neena Gupta’s mother-in-law in the film, and was immediately drawn to the character when she heard the script. Says the 2 time National award winner, “It’s a great time to be in films as so many good scripts are being written. It’s quite common in smaller towns, but in cities, people worry ki log kya kahenge, more so when your older son is of marriageable age, maybe even has a child of his own. This awkwardness is the fun part of the story”. Adding that, “I need good scripts. This one came out of the blue. Badhaai Ho is my comeback film in the real sense. I did a couple of movies years ago, then, got busy with TV. I hope this will open up more avenues for actors of my age”. Produced by Vineet Jain, Aleya Sen, Hemant Bhandari & Amit Ravindernath Sharma, the film releases on 19th Oct, 2018.

Shahid Kapoor To Play Boxing Hero Dingko Singh On Screen

Shahid Kapoor is all set to portray former boxing champ & Asian Games gold medallist Dingko Singh on screen. The film will be directed by Raja Krishna Menon and is expected to go on the floors sometime around Apr, 2019. Ngangom Dingko Singh, known as Dingko Singh (from Manipur) was the 1st ever & only Asian gold medalist boxer from India in the Bantamweight category. In 2013, he was awarded the Padma Shri. Dingko Singh has been an inspiration to many boxers who came into the ring after him, and went on to become a coach for young boxers. Shahid says, “He is one of those superstars who we don’t know much about. If a film like Dangal (2016) wasn’t made, we wouldn’t know as much about the Phogat sisters. Dingko Singh is a cancer survivor, and he went through 13 rounds of chemotherapy. His biggest win was surviving cancer & not the gold medal he won at the age of 19 at the 1998 Asian Games in Bangkok. In the year 2017, Gautam Gambhir became aware of his situation and sent money for his treatment. Soon, people found out who he was, and 13 doctors came forward to help him. He is a sports star who survived cancer. At some point in his past, he had almost become a Naxalite. Such amazing stories of heroes need to be told.”

Alia Bhatt To Be An Ambassador For “Daan Utsav”

Alia Bhatt is all set to be an ambassador for “Daan Utsav” this year which will take place from 2nd Oct, 2018 to 8th Oct 2018 and her fans across the world will now have the opportunity to pick up outfits from Alia Bhatt’s wardrobe & support a good cause at the same time. Proceeds from this 2nd wardrobe will support “The Corbett Foundation”, a not-for-profit that works with local communities to protect wildlife. Alia Bhat said, “Daan Utsav is all about celebrating giving & is an opportunity to contribute your time, money, materials or skills to a cause that you feel passionate about. I’ve decided to share my wardrobe once again during “Daan Utsav” to benefit the environment & support animal welfare. The wardrobe will be hosted online on SaltScout this time, giving people all over the country & the world a chance to purchase garments & shoes from my closet & support the work of “The Corbett Foundation”.

Akshay & Twinkle Celebrated The Success Of Her New Book In Jaisalmer

Akshay Kumar, who is shooting in Jaisalmer for Housefull 4 took time off & threw a party for his wife Twinkle Khanna to celebrate her new book. Twinkle Khanna who launched her 3rd book “Pyjamas Are Forgiving” recently is already ruling at #1 on Amazon & Crossword. It’s indeed a proud moment for the family. Over the weekend, Akshay organized a party at the beautiful ruins of Khaba Fort. The revellers had around 75 peacocks for company & Akshay ensured that all of Mrs Funnybones’s favorite dishes were on the menu. ”Meanwhile, ‘Pyjamas Are Forgiving’ continues to receive raving reviews.

Anushka Sharma Awarded 34th Priyadarshni Academy Global Awards, 2018 & Smita Patil Memorial Award For “Best Actor”

The 34th Priyadarshni Academy Anniversary Global Awards held in Mumbai on 19th Sept, 2018 saw the who’s who of India in attendance. A total of 8 awardees were felicitated by leading political dignitaries: Shri. Nitin Gadkari, (Minister of Shipping; Road Transport & Highways; Water Resources; River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation) & Shri.Piyush Goyal, (Minister of Railways & Coal). Also present were Shri Suresh Prabhu (Minister of commerce & Industry & civil aviation) Poonam Dhillon, Bharat Dhabolkar. Actress – producer Anushka Sharma who was honored with the Smita Patil Memorial Award while entrepreneur par excellence Ronnie Screwvala was awarded the Priyadarshni Academy Global Award for his outstanding contribution towards Innovative Entertainment & Community Development. Anushka Sharma said, “I feel humbled to have been honored by Priyadarshni Academy with the Smita Patil Memorial award this year. Smitaji is a true inspiration for every actor of my generation. Her pioneering effort in the upliftment of parallel cinema movement in India stands out as a beacon of hope for actors like myself & I in my small way will always strive to take her dream forward by being part of films that are content rich. This year also embarks me completing a decade.” “I am grateful to Priyadarshini Academy for having chosen me as the recipient of Priyadarshini Global Academy Award. The award is a reassurance of the fact that our Swades foundation’s efforts in empowering rural India to become self-sufficient in water, health, education & livelihood are steadily progressing in the right direction” said Ronnie Screwvala.

National Award Winning Filmmaker Rima Das’ Assamese Feature Village Rockstars Slated For Release On 28th Sept 2018

After vowing critics & audiences internationally, Rima Das’ National Award winning film Village Rockstars is slated for a Pan-India theatrical release on 28th Sept, 2018. The film will be released through VKAAO, a joint venture of PVR Pictures & Bookmyshow in metros cities of India & in more than 30 screens in Assam through Kamakhya Films. Most of the cast members of the film are non-actors including Rima Das’ niece Bhanita who plays Dhunu & the other kids who hail from Rima Das’ native village in Assam. The director-cinematographer-editor-producer Rima Das says, “After travelling to many film fest’s across the world & winning hearts, I am so delighted that the exciting journey of Village Rockstars has come to its final stage when we prepare with nervous anticipation & hope to present the film to the audiences in our homeland. Rima Das’ debut film as a writer-director-producer, Man with Binoculars (Antardrishti) premiered at Tallinn Black Nights Film Fest in the year 2016. Village Rockstars, her 2nd feature film, premiered at Toronto International Film Fest 2017 under Discovery Section. Bulbul Can Sing made its World Premiere at Toronto International Film Fest 2018 & will make its South Asia Premiere at the prestigious 23rd Busan International Film Fest 2018.

The Narrative Of ‘Sadak 2’ Is Pulled Out From Mahesh Bhatt’s Life

On the eve of his 70th birthday, Mahesh Bhatt announced his much anticipated & speculated return to direction. Mahesh Bhatt will be directing the sequel to his 1990’s landmark film Sadak. The film will see Sanjay Dutt, Pooja Bhatt, Alia Bhatt & Aditya Roy Kapur uniting on the big screen for the 1st time ever. Not just that, this is also the 1st time ever that Mahesh Bhatt will be directing his daughter Alia Bhatt. Sadak was not only a commercial blockbuster but went onto achieving cult status & etched itself in people’s hearts as one of the greatest love stories of the time that has endured until this date. With his trademark candor & brutal honesty, Mahesh Bhatt describes the feeling of being back in the driver’s seat as director for Sadak 2. “Like the spider gets its thread from his own guts. The narrative of Sadak 2 is pulled out from my lived life. It’s a film about living, loving & dealing with the anguish of the loss of a loved one.” What is interesting is that, Sadak 2 will also see the Bhatt sisters uniting with their father for the 1st time ever for a film. Mukesh Bhatt adds, “Though I have made so many films in 32 years of Vishesh Films, Sadak has a very special place in my heart because it’s one of the most iconic hits of my career. My gladiator Mahesh Bhatt is back to perform in the arena once again. With Alia Bhatt too coming on board, Pooja Bhatt being there & my daughter Sakshi Bhatt, who is the co-producer of the film, the 3 sisters will be seen performing important roles. Sadak is not just a project for me, it is very close to my heart. I know this journey will be the most fulfilling experience that I have had in so many years as a filmmaker & I am looking forward to it.” A Mukesh Bhatt Presentation of a Mahesh Bhatt Film, Sadak 2 is a Vishesh Films Production and is slated to release on 25th Mar, 2020.

Aayush Sharma & Warina Hussain’s Journey Of Love – ‘Loveyatri’

The debutante couple Aayush Sharma & Warina Hussain is leaving no stone unturned to promote their debut movie. The movie which is slated to release on 5th Oct, 2018 has a new fresh name attached to it. The Salman Khan backed movie is now named Loveyatri – A journey of Love. The name change has been a decision to showcase the story more prominently & avoid a nationwide agitation by religious bodies over the title. Loveyatri – A Journey of Love stands true to its name & brings about a fresh view on the whole perspective of love.

John Abraham’s ‘Romeo Akbar Walter’ Slated For Release

Viacom18 Motion Pictures, has now teamed with Kyta Productions for its upcoming espionage thriller, Romeo Akbar Walter (RAW). The John Abraham starrer will now release on 15th Mar, 2019. John Abraham says, “Having worked with them in the past, I know we have the right partners in Viacom18 for the film. Romeo Akbar Walter (RAW) was a challenging film, it was a 1st ever for me to have so many looks which required playing each one differently from stance to movement to speech, I really had a great time pushing myself to new boundaries, and much credit for this goes to my director Robbie Grewal. Audiences have been so kind to me this year, I’m hoping this will continue with Romeo Akbar Walter (RAW).” It is, based on true incidents & directed by debutante Robbie Grewal. The film starring John Abraham, Jackie Shroff, Suchitra Krishnamoorthi, Mouni Roy & Sikander Kher is produced by Dheeraj Wadhwan, Ajay Kapoor, Vanessa Walia & Gary Grewal.