An editing of The Great India Movie’s Kabristan Ki Ajeeb Dastaan is currently in progress at J. S. Studio, Andheri (W), Mumbai. The film is being written & produced by Suresh Patel, directed by Sushil Kumar. music by S. P. Sen & Anuj Tiwari & cinematography by Babloo Khan. The film Mallika Bachchan, Suresh Patel, Deepak Chauhan, Sapna Sonkar, Sudha Patel, Rahul Chauhan, Anand Gaur, Pushpa Sharma, Anita, Gyanmati, Ramji Yadav, Rajendra Gaur & Viraj R.

Namaste Bihar Shooting Complete

A 30 day’s shooting schedule of Omkar Film & Television Production’s Namaste Bihar has been completed at Munger, Rajgir & different locales of Bihar recently. With this, the entire shooting has been completed. The film is being produced & concept by Rajan Kumar, directed by Laxman Sinha. It has screenplay by Nehal Ahmed, lyrics by Rajesh Mishra, Satish Sinha & Santosh Puri, music by Aman Shlok, choreography by Gaurav Kaushik, art by Govind Sahani, cinematography by Anil Vaghela & co – produced by Advocate Kalpana Waskar & Laxman Prasad Singh. The film stars debutante Bhumika Kalita, Rajan Kumar, Manoj Sinha, Monika Kanti, Devyank Das, Jeetendra Singh, Sohail Rana, Pramod Nirala, Rajesh Kushwaha, Harsh Kumar, Preetam Adhikari & Ex – Chief Minister of Bihar Satish Prasad Singh.

D K – An Untouch Love Story All Songs Recorded

All the songs of Om Tapeshwariye Films’ D K – An Untouch Love Story has been recorded at Zeal Recording Studio, Goregaon (W), Mumbai recently, under the baton of music director Arvind R. Naik. The song has been rendered by Rehan Khan, Dhanshree Pawar, Nandini Saroj & Monika Vaghmare. The film is being produced by Lalan Lal Manohar Ram, directed by Devendra Kapoor from his own screenplay, lyrics by J. P. Mastana, dialogues by Pramod Mishra, choreography by Govind Anand, editing by Guddu Zafery, cinematography by Unni Nair, production controlling by Shiv Pujan, production managing by Amit Jaiswal & music arrangement by Anil Gaonkar. The start to finish shooting is going on 12th November at Vangani in Maharashtra. The film stars Kamal Yadav, Alankar Shrivastav, Mamta Shastri, Satish Sharma, Lakhan Bhardwaj et al.

The young action prince with hat trick crown Dhruva Sarja is in news on remuneration aspect. In the media it was reported that the remuneration of Dhruva Sarja after Bharjari’s success is Rs.6 crores. He has 3 consecutive wins earning more than Rs.100 crores. Dhruva Sarja did not complaint on it but took it positively in his professional life. He avers, “For me this rumor spread is advantage and now I would feel why not reach to that remuneration” he explained discussing on remuneration aspect. Apparently the sources says the film Bharjari is Rs.50 crore club cinema in a span of 50 days is another major booster in the career of Dhruva Sarja. It adds to his intention of reaching Rs.6 crore remunerations, Dhruva Sarja admits that his remuneration is not even half of the budget of the film Bharjari. “I am at the reach of this rumor yet for me the story, team & budget of the movie is important” avers Dhruva Sarja.

Shivanna Meets Home Minister

Century star Dr Shivarajakumar has taken a new move to meet the increasing traffic problems of outer ring road Nagavara surroundings of Manyatha Tech Park. Shivanna recently met the Home Minister Ramalinga Reddy and explained the traffic hazard faced by lakhs of people. The meeting of Shivanna & Home minister Ramalinga Reddy was held at Vidhana Soudha. The home minister has promised to convene a traffic police meeting to avoid the present hassles in traffic movement. Reacting to the appeal made by Dr Shivarajakumar, Home minister stated that when Manyatha Tech Park business establishments were at the beginning stage there will be 30000 employees in that boundary was given in writing. Now the people coming & going to this Manyatha Tech Park has increased to 1.50 lakhs. Such a massive increase in movement is obviously difficult to the residents living around that area to reach city & return home. However after consulting with Bengaluru Development Minister a solution would be worked out he said. Representing the residents of his locality Dr Shiv held a protest sometime back. He has submitted a memorandum now.

Aishwarya Sindogi Back

The heroine of Sapnoki Raani Aishwarya Sindogi with Srujan Lokesh who later shifted to sister role in Shivajinagara of Dhuniya Vijay in Simhadri, Jackson, Mummy and a song number in Bhujanga with Prajwal Devaraj are in to her account. She is now in Samyuktha 2 as one of the 2 heroines. Audio CD of the film was released in a packed auditorium on Sat night. Cinema was not her dream till an offer came when she was studying PUC. Dance & fashion show was her favorite field. From Samyktha 2 a good progress for cinema profession is her expectations. Director Abhiram has stitched a good story & Dr. Manjunath has lent everything for good output of the film. Good days are ahead is the strong confidence of actress Aishwarya Sindogi.

Dibakar bannerjee, known for perfectionism, worked relentlessly for 2 days to crack Arjun Kapoor’s Cop Look in Sandeep Aur Pinky Faraar.

Arjun plays a Haryanvi cop in YRF’s forthcoming entertainer Sandeep Aur Pinky Faraar and his look had the internet buzzing when it was launched recently. Cracking this look, authentic yet distinctive, took a fair bit of time & effort on the part of both the director Dibakar Banerjee & Arjun Kapoor.

Arjun Kapoor disclosed, “I was literally put on house arrest by Dibakar Bannerjee before the look test. I had to grow my full beard so that we could try out various looks before Dibakar froze on what he exactly wants. It took us 48 hours to finalise the look of the Haryanvi cop.” He adds, laughing, “Now, that Dibakar Bannerjee has locked the look, I can finally step out of my house and have a social life before I head to an intensive shooting schedule of the film next week.”

Arjun also adds, “Dibakar Bannerjee’s world is as real as it comes. So we had to crack the policeman look convincingly and still give him a distinctive persona. We spent 2 days to make me look like a police constable who has trained & worked the beat.”

Yash Raj Film’s Sandeep Aur Pinky Faraar co -stars Parineeti Chopra and is all set to release on 3rd Aug, 2018.

After almost 5 decades Basu Bhttacharya’s Teesri Kasam, Phanishwar Nath Renu’s creation, Panchlait hits the celluloid silver screen pan India on 17th Nov, 2017. Phanishwar Nath Renu’s heart – warming stories have always created curiosity amongst the filmmakers yet it remains vastly unexplored with the last release being Teesri Kasam, helmed by Basu Bhattacharya.

Panchlait is the story of a kerosene lamp (which uses paraffin and a hand pump which is used to pressurize, in order to light it up), which plays an integral part in a villagers life and possessing one is a mark of honour. The film revolves around a specific village community, Mahato Tola and acquiring the coveted Panchlait after much ado and chain of incidents leading up to it. The story line is hinged on multiple & layered social interactions and an ethereal romance brewing between the lead characters.

The film is helmed by Prem Modi, his 2nd directorial outing after Arjun a Bengali feature film (2013) written (based on a novel) by Samaresh Mazumder, starring Sabhyasachi Chakraborty, Dipanker Dey, Manoj Mitra, Churni Ganguly et al. Prem Modi has worked with stalwarts like Aparna Sen, Tapan Sinha, Anjun Dutt, Gul Bahar Singh, Shyaman & Jalan, Indranil Goswami amongst others. He has worked on multiple documentaries, internationally recognised & award winning projects. Prem Modi has also worked with powerhouse actors such as Naseeruddin Shah, Irrfan Khan, Amrish Puri, Konkona Sen Sharma, Rituparna Sengupta, Rajit Kapoor, Victor Banerjee, Kay kay Menon, Jimmy Shergil & Sandhya Mridul.

Talking about the release of the film, Prem Modi Stated, “I always had Phanishwar Nath Renu’s stories in mind for my next venture. The simplicity in his stories is irresistible and growing up in Bengal I believe I have acquired a literary bent of mind. Besides I wanted to go Pan India and Hindi had to be my medium of communication this time. The storyline of Panchlait is straight from the Hindi heartland which is the better part of our country and I’m sure audiences around the country will relate to it. It is a tough job to adapt a story like this, since it is popular amongst the Hindi scholars, in fact this story is there in school syllabi. Also, it was extremely important to preserve the same regional flavour & philosophy upon which Panishwar Nath Renu’s stories are based upon. Then I discussed it with my friend Rakesh Kumar Tripathi, who is an excellent writer, my friend & also an associate in this film, thus this project became the dream project for both of us. We were working on this project from the past 8 years, and eventually the story was culminated into an excellent script by Rakesh Kumar Tripathi keeping the core elements intact. From the day we conceived this project to now he is there, in fact the whole cast & crew gave their 100%, making this dream project of mine & Rakesh a reality.”

The ensemble cast of Panchlait boasts of power house performers, NSD graduates & theatre artists such as Yashpal Sharma, Rajesh Sharma, Ravi Jhankal, Brijendra Kala, Lalit Parimoo, Pranay Narrayan, Iqbal Sultan, Malini Sengupta, Kalpana Jha with Amitosh Nagpal (Films – Dabangg, Aarakshan, Rangrez & Red) (RED was not a film, it was a TV series) & Anuradha (a trained classical dancer and acted in films like Days of Tafree, Life Biriyani). Alongside a stellar star cast the film also lists veteran crew members), in the lead.

Talking about the release of the film actor Yashpal Sharma averred, “Panchlait is the kind of cinema that happens once in a while and I’m glad to be a part of the project. The biggest draw for this film is that it is a Paneshwar Nath Renu’s story and we have made the film in its purest form. Keeping everything realistic. I’m waiting for the release now”.

Panchlait hits cinemas around the country on 17th Nov, 2o17.

by Faizan Rizwan & Shaheen Raaj

In an effort to recognize astounding achievers with disabilities for the 16thconsecutive year, CavinKare & Ability Foundation jointly invite nominations for the CavinKare Ability Awards 2018, from across the country. The award aims to recognize & honor people with disabilities for their path – breaking achievements & salute the spirit of individuals who have fought against odds to scale extraordinary heights.

Ever since its inception in the year 2003, the CavinKare Ability Awards have honored over 60 recipients and brought to the limelight their exemplary achievements. Over the years, the awards have come to be recognized as a much sought after recognition by themselves.

These come under two prestigious categories –Eminence & Mastery.

CAVINKARE ABILITY Award for Eminence: This is a single award given to just 1 person with disability, saluting the exemplary achievement of the person, who has not only overcome great odds but has also contributed significantly to society by initiating an organization of his / her own. The award carries a citation, a trophy & a cash prize of Rs. 2 lakhs.

CAVINKARE ABILITY Mastery Awards: These are 3 awards given to 3 individuals with disabilities from across the country, in recognition of their extraordinary achievement in any field of their choice, be it arts, film, medicine, science & technology, adventure, human rights, sports or more. The awards carry a citation, a trophy & a cash prize of Rs.1 lakh each.

The last date for receipt of nominations is 8th Nov, 2017. A person can be nominated for any 1 category only. Any Indian national with disability (as per the Persons with Disabilities Act, 1995) who has done exceptional work in his / her chosen field is eligible to apply. The nominations go through a process of short – listing through interviews & site visits, to be selected by a discerning jury who then decides on the recipients. For more information & to send in your nominations, please log on to www.cavinkare.com or www. abilityfoundation.org or call +91 8939675544.

CavinKare Pvt. Ltd: CavinKare is a diversified FMCG major with the business interest in personal care, professional care, dairy, snacks, foods, beverages & salons. The brand portfolio consists of Shampoos (Chik, Meera, Karthika & Nyle), Hair Wash Powders (Meera & Karthika), Coconut Oil (Meera), Fairness creams (Fairever), Deodorant & Talc (Spinz), Pickles & Snacks (Ruchi, Chinni’s & Garden), Hair Colors (Indica), Retail Salon Products (Raaga Professional), Beverages (Maa), Dairy (Cavin’s) & Beauty Salons (Green Trends & Limelite). Most of the brands are clear winners in their respective product categories. A dedicated R&D center equipped with latest equipment & technologies constantly supports the divisions in their endeavor. Today, with a turnover of over Rs. 1500 crore, CavinKare has achieved significant milestones & a competitive edge with a sound understanding of mass marketing dynamics and has established a firm foothold in the national market. CavinKare’s success is based on it being firmly grounded in its corporate mission “We shall achieve growth by continuously offering unique products & services that would give customers utmost satisfaction and thereby be a role model”.

Ability Foundation: Ability Foundation is a national cross – disability organization established in 1995, which strives for inclusion, empowerment & rights of persons with disabilities. Headquartered in Chennai, Ability Foundation is involved in a wide range of activities that include publishing, media, education, employment & employment related training, advocacy, law & public policy & human rights. Over the years, Ability Foundation has organized several events & also initiated numerous programmes, all of which aim at dispelling stereotypes & changing public perceptions about disabled persons. The Foundation works towards an inclusive society & equal opportunities and a level playing field for all persons with disabilities, stressing on the need for the right opportunities at the right time & an open mind, sans bias.

Drishyam Play recently launched its latest song “Main Banjar”, a haunting composition by Santosh Jagdale featuring the soulful vocals of Mohan Kannan & thought – provoking lyrics by Mukta Bhatt. “Main Banjar” also features in Drishyam Films’ next Kadvi Hawa, directed by Padmashree Nila Madhab Panda of “I Am Kalam fame.” Drishyam Play is an initiative designed to curate & promote fresh music from different parts of our country, beautifully fused with soulful lyrics & earthy vocals.

Drishyam Play, the latest initiative of Drishyam Films that curates & promotes fresh music from different parts of our country, launched its latest song “Main Banjar” on their YouTube channel recently. The song will be featured in Drishyam Films’ upcoming film, Kadvi Hawa.

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Padmashree Nila Madhab Panda (of I am Kalam fame), Kadvi Hawa deals with the issue of climate change and stars Sanjay Mishra, Ranvir Shorey & Tillotama Shome in lead roles.

“Main Banjar”, composed by Santosh Jagdale is a haunting ballad which features the soulful vocals of Mohan Kannan & some thought – provoking lyrics by Mukta Bhatt.

The talented Mohan Kannan who has lent his melodious vocals to “Main Banjar” averred, “I’m very proud to be a part of this intense song written brilliantly by Mukta Bhatt & composed wonderfully by Santosh Jagdale. At a time when most songs & films are made on love & romance, it’s great to have a topic like climate change and its repercussions forming the basis for the creative expressions.”

Here are more details on the song: Music by Santosh Jagdale, lyrics by Mukta Bhatt, sung by Mohan Kanan, oud & Bazouki by Tapas Roy, live Rhythms & Percussions arranged & conducted by: Dipesh Varma & strings section written & conducted by Jitendra Thakur.
Drishyam Play was launched in Sept, 2017 with the inspirational song “Khidki” composed by Amit Trivedi & sung by Mohan Kannan.

Drishyam Play envisions being a unique launch pad for promising musicians, composers, writers & vocalists to establish themselves in a highly competitive music industry.

The project is also an effort to bring back some elements and the old world charm of all the genres like Sufi, Folk, Ghazal, Thumris. Drishyam Play will be an indigenous process to select & curate tracks that will eventually become an integral part of the movies produced by Drishyam Films.

The day started with the screening of Deepak Rauniyar’s White Sun, the Oscar Nominated film from Nepal. The other screenings of the day included Pushpendra Singh’s Ashwatthama, Ektara Collective’s Turup, Rahul Jain’s Machines & Iram Haq’s What Will People Say which drew in audiences in large numbers.

Actor & director Konkona Sen Sharma presented a screening of her acclaimed feature. A Death In The Gunj and in the Q & A that followed, she enthusiastically responded to the audiences questions.

Noted actor Adil Hussain conducted a Masterclass session. Titled The Freewheelin’ Adil Hussain, the session saw the actor speaking about his process & journey as an actor.

A Panel discussion titled Charting Troubled Waters saw noted filmmakers from 5 different countries speak about what independent filmmaking stands for in their respective countries. Moderated by noted film writer & critic Aseem Chhabra, the panel included filmmakers Yaniv Berman (Land Of The Little People, Israel), Lijo Jose Pellissery (Angamaly Diaries, India), Mano Khalil (The Swallow, Switzerland) & Yoshinori Sato (Her Mother, Japan).

A discussion on Women In Cinema was also conducted which included celebrated women filmmakers & actors including Konkona Sen Sharma (A Death In The Gunj), Ritu Sarin (When Hari Got Married) founder & director of DIFF), Sayani Gupta (The Hungry), Rasika Duggal (The School Bag), Bornila Chatterjee (The Hungry), Ekavali Khanna (What Will People Say), Maheen Mirza (Turup) & Rinchin (Turup). The discussion touched on a diverse range of topics such as equal pay for women and bridging the gap between mainstream & independent cinema.

Actor & Director Konkona Sen Sharma who was extremely delighted to be at the festival averred, “It is my 1st time at Dharamshala and it was magical. I love Tibetian food, the mountains & the independent cinema and I am so excited to be here.”

Winding up the day, founder – director Ritu Sarin averrerd, “It has been an exceptionally beautiful day. Today we had an amazing session with Adil Hussain where he spoke about his practice & his process as an actor. Everyone is enjoying being at the festival. Ashwatthama was highly appreciated and so was Turup. The documentaries Machines & Cameraperson were also screened. And the audiences really had a tough time deciding what to watch.”

This year’s line – up also included 2 award winning documentaries, Kirsten Johnson’s Cameraperson (USA, 2016), Rahul Jain’s Machines (India, 2016) which screened at 10 international film festivals & bagged the World Cinema Documentary Special Jury Award for Excellence in Cinematography at 2017’s Sundance Film Festival.

DIFF 2017 also featured the Indian premiere of Out of This World (USA), a newly restored version of journalist & writer Lowell Thomas’ fascinating account of his travels to Tibet in 1949 (originally released in 1954).

This year’s feature films include Dain Said’s Interchange (Malaysia, 2016), Yaniv Berman’s Land of The Little People (Israel, 2016), Dechen Roder’s Honeygiver Among the Dogs (Bhutan, 2016), Yoshinori Sato’s Her Mother (Japan), Mano Khalil’s The Swallow (Switzerland),KarmaTakapa’s Ralang Roadwhich premiered at this year’s Karlovy Vary Film Festival (an Indian film to be selected at the fest after 13 years) & Deepak Rauniyar’s Oscar entry from Nepal, White Sun which premiered at 73rd Venice Film Festival & bagged Interfilm Award & new voices / new visions grand jury prize at the Palm Springs festival.

DIFF continues its tradition of showcasing experimental films by presenting the South Asia premieres of 3 features by well – known artists & filmmakers: Amar Kanwar’s Such a Morning (India), and Naeem Mohaiemen’s Tripoli Cancelled (Bangladesh), both of which premiered this year at Documenta 14 & Singapore filmmaker Tan Pin Pin’s In Time to Come, which had its world premiere at Visions Du Reel and was in competition at Hot Docs & Sheffield Doc Fest.

This year’s shorts selection was curated by filmmaker Umesh Kulkarni, whilst Children’s Film Programme was curated by children’s media specialist Monica Wahi.

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

This year’s festival was once again supported by its long – term partners, Thyssen – Bornemisza Art Contemporary, and the Government of Himachal Pradesh through its departments of Tourism, & Language, Arts & Culture.

The 1st edition of DIFF was held in 2012. Since then, it has become established as one of India’s leading independent film festivals. DIFF’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. At DIFF 2016, 100’s of cinema enthusiasts from across India & the world converged to watch films & discuss the state of modern cinema, whilst some of India’s best -known film critics & journalists were on hand to cover the event.

The trio from United Kingdom Karnataka Chamber, Manjunath Karma, Sujith & Kiran Baratur arrived to Bengaluru to clarify the doubt & prestige of the unit they have started to promote Kannada culture & heritage. The rumor in the air that Darshan was given an award was not proportionate to the Global Diversity Award made the trio from UK to reach Bengaluru & clarify on the honor done to the challenging star Darshan. The Global Diversity award is constituted by British Parliament member Veerendra Sharma & Karnataka Business Chamber proposed the name of challenging star Darshan as Manjunath Karma a hotelier in UK is long time friend. On assessing Darshan’s image it was Veerendra Sharma in his individual capacity who arranged for the honor inside the House of Commons. There is no doubt about it says Manjunath Karma. On the level of the award he says that the Global Diversity award is set up by Keith Waz a British Parliament member. As Veerendra Sharma who represents Punjab discussed with Karnataka Business of Chamber the similar kind of award with new title was applied for registration. That is none other than “Global Integrity Award”. The 1st presentation of this was bestowed on Darshan from South India. The patent for this is at the process of finalization but after approval letter to go ahead this award was given to Kannada actor Darshan. There was a binding that nothing should be disclosed till the award’s evening is completed. The D page has not created any confusion. We wanted to reach Bengaluru and give further details stated Manager to Darshan Mallikarjun. Any Kannadiga getting this honor is a pride moment felt the 4 sitting on the dais.

Upendra Evolve KPJP

Super star Upendra has set a new ground for his political party. On Tues the platform was different. Upendra & his team were in front of the dais at Gandhi Bhavan. The media of different newspapers & television channels were seated on the dais. It was a reverse positioning. It is because of media anything is possible. You may ask questions to our team members of “Karnataka Pragnavantha Janata Paksha” KPJP announced Upendra after formal invocation song from Shamitha Malnad & Vilas Naik painted the inner thoughts of Upendra in picture format. It is “Karnataka Pragnavantha Janata Paksha” as the new party he floated. This title was in the name of Mahesh and now in Upendra team. On education system, No money & no caste system, public service, development of down trodden, smart village concept, picking of right candidates for the next assembly elections in 224 constituencies, win or lose attempt should be made, total transparency, people are the high command, not to join any political party, were some of the thoughts of Upendra for questions from media at the dais.

Priyamani Film After Marriage

The national award winning actress Priyamani is returning to acting after a brief interval because of her marriage. The title of Priyamani’s next film is Nanna Prakara – very interesting because the words are used by most of the people in their conversation. Vinay Balaji is making his debut as director. Priyamani accepting for a newcomer film shows her exemplary nature. Kishor, Mayoori, Nihan of Kal Keji Priti are also part of the cast. Niranjan Deshpande is in guest role of this GVK combines film. It is a crime thriller in category. Vinay Balaji has written story, screenplay & dialogues with Chandan. Vinay directed Camera & Money short films and got award from Mumbai Film Festival. It has been long wait to fetch right producer for Nanna Prakara Kannada film direction for Vinay Balaji. 5 friends have come forward to invest on his thoughts for celluloid silver screen. Manohar Joshi is cameraman; Arjun Ramu of Huliraya fame has 4 songs to compose music. Kiran Kaverappa & Jayanth Kaikii are the lyricists.

Shriya Pilgaonkar who was appreciated for her Hindi film debut as Shahrukh Khan’s love interest in Fan and for her viral short film Jai Mata Di, is now going to be seen in a web show called Mirzapur produced by Farhan Akhtar & Ritesh Sidhwani for a global online platform where she stars opposite Ali Fazal in the lead. Mirzapur is a Gangster based drama directed by the makers of Inside Edge and is currently being shot in Varanasi. The show also stars Pankaj Tripathi & Vikrant Massey When asked, Shriya said, “I am thrilled to be a part of Mirzapur and to be working with Excel. We have already started shooting in Varanasi. The cast is fantastic and the character I play is completely different from what I have done before. Ali & I have been friends since college, so it’s even more special that we are working together.”

VIRAT KOHLI & ABHISHEK BACHCHAN SUCCESSFULLY PULL OFF 3RD EDITION OF CELEBRITY CLASICO

The 3rd edition of Celebrity Clasico concluded on a high note with power – packed performance from creme de la creme of the Indian entertainment industry & Indian sportsmen battling it out on the field for a noble initiative. All Heart football club walked away with a trophy of the star – studded football match held in Mumbai recently. The man of the match was MS Dhoni scoring 2 goals for the winning team. The night turned a starry affair with an electrifying performance from the All Heart club led by Virat Kohli & All Star club spearheaded by Abhishek Bachchan. The celebrities indulged in a competitive round of football. Both the teams were challenging enough and made for a tough competition for each other; however All Heart football club defeated All Star football club by 7 -3. The 2017 edition of the Celebrity Clasico football match is an initiative by Cornerstone Sport & GS Worldwide Entertainment. The funds generated through this match will be utilized for the charitable initiatives of both the Virat Kohli foundation & Playing for Humanity. The best goalkeeper award went to Marc Robinson of the All Star football club. Punjabi singer, Guru Randhawa entertained the spectators with his live performance.

50 CELEBRITIES TO WISH HEMA MALINI ON HER BIOGRAPHY LAUNCH

For the 1st time in the history of Bollywood, 50 noted celebrities from Indian Film & Music industry have wished actress Hema Malini on the occasion of her authorized biography Beyond The Dream Girl written by journalist Ram Kamal Mukherjee. The “surprise” video was specially played for media & noted dignitaries at the book launch in Mumbai, at J W Marriott. Published by Harper Collins India, the 300 odd pages comprises her journey since childhood to her recent political sojourn as MP of Mathura. The cover photograph has been shot by Vickky Idnaani. “While we were planning the book launch on her birthday on 16th Oct, 2017, we realized that Hemaji will be completing 50 years in this industry in 2018. So we decided to make it special for her, and took this herculean task to get 50 celebrities to wish her on her biography, birthday & Golden Jubilee year,” says Ram Kamal Mukherjee. A remix track from Pramod Chakraborty’s Dream Girl has been composed specially for this video. The song been rendered by Vishesh Jain. The animation of Hema Malini’s cover has been executed by Somnath Paul. The theme song for the making is created by Sunny Karmakar. The video features legends like Amitabh Bachchan to youngster Arjun Kapoor, from veteran Vyjainthimala Bali to glam girl Kriti Sanon, from designer Neeta Lulla to choreographer Shaimak Davar, from legends like Lata Mangeshkar to Ustaad Amjad Ali Khan, from playback singers like Kavita Krishnamurthy to Babul Supriyo, from veteran Ramesh Sippy to National award winning Madhur Bhandarkar.

IHANA DHILLON SHOOTS WITH KARAN WAHI & VIVAN BHATENA FOR HATE STORY 4

Punjabi beauty Ihana Dhillon, who has acted in Punjabi films like Daddy Cool Munde Fool, Thug Life, Ji Karda & Tiger, has started shooting for her debut Bollywood film Hate Story. The model – turned -actress, who plays a parallel lead in the revenge drama, was recently spotted shooting with television stars Karan Wahi & Vivan Bhatena in London. Going by the latest pictures from the sets, it seems Ihana is having a gala time with her co – stars. The talented actress underwent extensive training for her role as a corporate girl. Unlike other Hate Story movies, the latest installation will be focusing on the story more than the sensual part in the film. The film, which is based on true incidents, will also feature Urvashi Rautela in lead role.

KIRTI KULHARI INAUGURATED SHIVAS SIGNATURE UNISEX SALOON

Shivarama Bhandari of Shiva’s Hair Designer Pvt Ltd, who is Bollywood’s most known hair stylist invited Actress Kirti Kulhari for the inauguration of the 16th outlet of unisex saloon & spa Shivas Signature at Walkeshwar, Mumbai. Gurubhai Thakkar, Khooshi Thakkar, Ekta Jain, Shree Rajput, Sanchiti Sakat & Ashok Dhamankar graced the occasion. Shivarama K Bhandary did puja with his wife Anushri. He also took blessings from his mother Gulabi Bhandary. This is one of the finest saloon with spa in South Mumbai.

ANSHUMAN JHA ROPED IN TO PLAY THE LEAD IN ISHWAR

Anshuman Jha (LSD, Bakrapur, Chauranga & X) & Sharib Hashmi (Filmistan & Phullu) will lock horns as Romeo & Tybalt in a modern day adaptation of the Bard’s Famous Romance Romeo & Juliet, titled Ishwar. The film set in Allahabad goes on the floors on 18th Oct, 2017 & will see Jha reprising the role of the righteous lover “Ishwar” & Sharib Hashmi as the local young political Kingpin & also the girl’s brother. This will be Sharib’s 1st outing as an antagonist & Jha’s 1st out & out Romance after his tragic love story in his debut Love Sex Aur Dhokha. The lead girl to portray Juliet is being kept a secret but it is being rumored that Ayesha Kapur (of Black & Sikander fame) & new girl Diksha Juneja (made waves in her debut Short “Ghumakkad” this year & will also be seen in Leena Yadav’s next) are in the running. Interestingly Anshuman Jha was also born in Allahabad and will be visiting his place of birth after 20 odd years to shoot this film & is most excited about the process. Talking about his upcoming project, an excited Anshuman stated, “‘R&J is one of the bard’s best work. And last I had done an adaptation of it in a school play. To be a part of a film adaptation & that too in my place of birth Allahabd, is very special for me. Sometimes you don’t choose films, they choose you’. The film is being helmed by Imtiaz Ali’s Associate Pradeep Singrole & is being produced by India E Commerce Ltd. “Anshuman is probably the most talented young actor & the most under used actor of this generation. My adaptation focuses on the tension & the rivalry between Romeo & Tybalt. It’s set in the Northern heartland of India in the backdrop of the timeless love story between the shy righteous Ishwar & the feisty – innocent Isha” Says Pradeep Singrole.

VAANI KAPOOR TO STAR OPPOSITE HRITHIK ROSHAN IN YRF’S ACTION ENTERTAINER

Vaani Kapoor will romance superstar Hrithik Roshan in YRF’s next co – starring Tiger Shroff. The talented young heroine Vaani Kapoor is the female lead of what is being called the biggest action spectacle of 2019. Director Siddharth Anand says, “While the film is primarily Hrithik V/s Tiger, there is only 1 girl in the film who is opposite Hrithik. I was looking for young & fresh energy in the casting and I have found that in Vaani Kapoor.” Vaani had caught the industry’s attention not only with her acting abilities but also with her outstanding dancing skills. Siddharth says, “I have loved Vaani as an actor in both her films and after meeting her I was fully convinced that she is the best girl for my film.” The as yet untitled Republic Day entertainer is all set to release on 25th Jan, 2019.

NAWAZUDDIN SIDDIQUI IN ANIL SHARMA’S NEXT ‘GENIUS’

Nawazuddin Siddiqui has been signed to play a key role in the love story Genius directed & produced by Anil Sharma. Incidentally, the film also marks the debut of Jeetey from Gadar Ek Prem Katha fame actor – Utkarsh Sharma. The film’s shooting schedule is already on with a 40 days Marathon stint in Northern part of India. The leading lady of the film has not yet been finalized, according to producer – director Anil Sharma.

1ST LOOK OF THRILLER ‘MURDER AT KOH E FIZA’ LAUNCHED
The 1st look of Jai Viratra Entertainment Limited’s Murder At Koh E Fiza was launched in Mumbai with much fanfare. Murder At Koh E Fiza is based on a true event of Koh E Fiza, Bhopal. The whole cast & crew was present at the event. Manoj Nandwana known for his controversial based movie is the producer & story concept together with producer Mohak Gupta were present. Director Divaker Naik was also present at the event. 3 posters of the movie which is a murder mystery were released. As of now, only the poster & the concept are released but the lead cast will soon come into limelight. As the movie is based on the true story of Bhopal, the whole movie is shot at real locales in Bhopal itself. Naik says that there is very little chance to make changes in the concept of the movies which are based on true story. The story concept, local artist & real location are really challenging but at the same time, are very demanding. He adds that the thriller will hold the audience from the start to end. The makers are looking for the release of this murder mystery on 2nd Feb, 2018.

ABU DHABI WEEK OPENS IN MUMBAI

The dedicated efforts of the Department of Culture & Tourism – Abu Dhabi to increase the numbers of tourists from India, got off to a promising start when several 100 Mumbaikars witnessed the opening of the 1st “Abu Dhabi Week” in India. The exposition at Mumbai’s sprawling MMRDA grounds, BKC featured a collection of Abu Dhabi’s tourist & cultural attractions. Before declaring the opening of the weekend festival, Mubarak Al Nuaimi, Director of Promotions & Overseas Offices at the Department of Culture & Tourism – Abu Dhabi addressed media, members of the travel trade & distinguished invitees, and said that during the 1st 8 months of 2017, Abu Dhabi had seen a 9% increase in hotel occupancy by Indian guests. A total of 223,000 guests from India stayed in hotels in Abu Dhabi for an average of 2.8 days during this period, he added. Mubarak Al Nuaimi said that India is a key tier – one priority for Abu Dhabi, and apart from positioning the emirate as a holiday destination, they will also underline the message that Abu Dhabi is an ideal business locale for the meetings, incentives, conferences & exhibitions, MICE, industry, with a superb selection of venues for delegations from India.

MAGICIANS P. C. SORKAR (JR) & MANEKA SORCAR COME UP WITH ‘‘THE AMAZING MAGIC FESTIVAL”

The tradition of Padmashri P. C. Sorkar kept alive by his granddaughter Maneka, one of the 3 daughters of P. C. Sorkar (Jr). Known as an exemplary magician of his times, Sorkar made a name for his nation India at places like London, Paris, Rome, Moscow, Tokyo and a number of nations of the world. People flocked everywhere to view magic played out with 40 tons of materials, 35 assistants, lilting music & a magic that would happen in fraction of a moment. This is the 9th generation of Sorkar presenting magic now, the curiosity of the show has multiplied. “The Amazing Magic Festival” will start on 14th Oct, 2017 at Imagica & close on 28th Feb, 2018 in Goa. The Festival will be presented at 100 locales in Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, Aurangabad, Nagpur, Pune, Surat & Goa. The Scholarship of Rs 15,000 will be started this year and will also be continued and one student will be able to win this Scholarship every year. The audiences are sure to be mesmerized & spellbound during the concluding event of the show by the performance of Joyshree Sorkar, wife of P. C. Sorkar (Jr).

ARJUN KAPOOR PLAYS A HARYANVI COP IN YRF’S ‘SANDEEP AUR PINKY FARAAR’!

In Dibakar Banerjee’s Sandeep Aur Pinky Faraar, Arjun sports a buzz cut typical of police recruits and looks every bit the heart – land policeman in this photo. Arjun plays a 30 – year – old police constable from Haryana and has interacted with police recruits across all ranks in both the Delhi Police & the Haryana police and also visited a training academy to witness all that goes into the making of a heartland cop. “Playing a cop is traditionally considered cool in Hindi films. But in a Dibakar Banerjee film, a cop is presented as realistic and yet, as unique as a person. It’s that dichotomy of blending yet & still standing out that makes this role all the more exciting. Dibakar is very specific about the look of his characters. We worked on it for a long time before he decided that this is the look he wants. From my moustache, to my hair cut, to the freckles on my face to make my character look like a cop & yet blend with his environment reflects just how Dibakar has imagined him & his world to be. It will be a gritty entertainer and I’m looking forward to the 1st day of the shoot.” said Arjun. Produced by Yash Raj Films, Sandeep Aur Pinky Faraar starring Parineeti Chopra is all set to release on 3rd Aug, 2018.

SMILIE SURI POLE WALT TO SUCCESS – FITNESS SPEAKS

Smilie Suri has recently started her school “Pole Star” where she teaches pole, chair tricks etc to empower women and generally help them tackle varied health issues like Thyroid, Menopause, PCOD etc. Her 1st film Kalyug with Kunal Khemmu, did create ripples at the Box – Office turnstiles and she did get her share of positive reviews. But, as she says, “I am still waiting for a good role to come by. But I refuse to go for auditions and be judged. I would rather spend my time on my 2nd love of pole dancing and feel good. I danced before I walked, my mother had said to me. I had dabbled with every form of dance from childhood. When I learnt pole fitness recently, I realized in Singapore that pole dancing is one sport that empowers you. I wanted to empower women and make them feel body confidence and aware of their sensuality and love themselves for what they are. So I decided to go back to teaching dance.” Smilie has put up a pole in her own house and started teaching it to others. “Age cannot be a barrier in learning this art form. Age is not a deterrent to start or pursue this kind of activity.” Do men also practice this sport? “Yes. The Chinese pole is all about men doing the tricks. In many other countries too, so many men pole and they are strong & fit. I do intend to start pole fitness for men soon. I will rope in my brothers Mohit Suri & Emraan Hashmi. They must realize what they have been missing out on,” she quips.