Yash Raj Films to Distribute ‘Hanuman vs Mahiravana’ & ‘Chhota Bheem: Kung Fu Dhamaka’

Apart from its home productions, Yash Raj Films has successfully distributed films of other renowned filmmakers across India through its strong & vast distribution network. Adding to its ever-growing list of titles, YRF will distribute forthcoming Indian animation films Hanuman vs Mahiravana & Chhota Bheem: Kung Fu Dhamaka, across India.

Produced by innovative animation content company Green Gold Animation, these films will be released in Hindi & Tamil languages across India in stereoscopic 3D & normal 2D versions.

In the past, Yash Raj Films (YRF) has had a successful distribution collaboration with Green Gold Animation, while distributing their film Chhota Bheem And The Throne Of Bali across India in May, 2013.

Speaking about this twin film deal, Rohan Malhotra, Vice President, Yash Raj Distribution said, “Chhota Bheem & Hanuman are iconic animation characters among Indian kids today. Green Gold Animation has been able to build these inherently Indian animation heroes, Hanuman from mythology & Chhota Bheem as a fictional character and their films deserve a strong release.

Hanuman vs Mahiravana will release across India on 22nd Jun, 2018 & Chhota Bheem: Kung Fu Dhamaka will release later this year.

Elaborating on their distribution deal with Yash Raj Films (YRF), Rajiv Chilaka, CEO of Green Gold Animation said, “Yash Raj Films (YRF) is a big & strong partner for us and we have worked together in the past and we are happy that this partnership will bring 2 amazing stereoscopic 3D animated movies for Indian audiences. Hanuman vs Mahiravana is an Untold story from the Ramayana and is an action packed family movie and we are targeting teenage & older audiences with this movie.”

This collaboration with Indian animation for Yash Raj Films (YRF) will amplify the reach of these films to their widest possible audience; ensuring Indian audiences get the best of home grown entertainment.

Synopsis of Hanuman vs Mahiravana

The quest to rescue princess Sita is coming to an end as Rama & his army of monkeys makes their final push for victory against the demon king Ravana of Lanka. In the ensuing battle, Rama defeats & disarms Ravana but magnanimously spares his life. That night, Ravana unleashes his most powerful ally; his brother Mahiravana, a dark & powerful sorcerer who rules over the Underworld. Mahiravana’s shadow casts a blanket of deception over Rama’s army and the unseen enemy captures Rama & Lakshmana. Mahiravana intends to kill the 2 princes at day break to fulfill a prophecy that will make him invincible. Can Rama’s friend Hanuman save them before it is too late?

Credit Slate of Hanuman vs Mahiravana

a) Producer: Rajiv Chilaka, Samir Jain & Srinivas Chilakapaudi.

b) Director: Ezhil Vendan.

c) Starring: Animated Characters of Rama, Sita, Hanuman, Lakshman, Sugriva, Vibhishana, Ravana, Mahiravana, Sage Tamisra, Taka & Baka.
d) Writer: Narayanan Vaidyanatan.

Synopsis of Chhota Bheem: Kung Fu Dhamaka

On the emperor’s invitation, Chhota Bheem, now stronger than ever, is in the kingdom of China, participating in a prestigious martial arts competition. When Kia, the emperor’s daughter is taken by her uncle Zuhu, Bheem & team go after the kidnappers, but Zuhu is unlike any enemy Bheem has ever encountered. Steeped in dark magic & martial arts Zuhu is pure evil, Bheem may just have met his nemesis in the land of Dragon.

Credit Slate of Chhota Bheem: Kung Fu Dhamaka

a) Producer: Rajiv Chilaka, Samir Jain & Srinivas Chilakapaudi.

b) Director: Rajiv Chilaka

c) Starring : Animated Characters of Chhota Bheem, Chutki, Jaggu, Raju, Kalia, Princess Kia & Zuhu

d) Writer: Nidhi Anand & Teja Pratap

Green Gold Animation is a pioneer in creating original Indian animation content and has been entertaining the younger generation for over a decade. The shows produced by Green Gold have been hugely popular across all leading kids TV channels like Cartoon Network, Pogo, Discovery Kids, Hungama & Disney, drawing an active viewership of over 60 million kids. The popularity of the characters created by Green Gold has transcended over the years and it has helped the company establish itself as a leading player in Licensing & Merchandising, Movie Production & Distribution, Digital Business, Retail Stores & Events.

Raazi

Raazi Is An Interesting Spy Thriller

Banner: Junglee Pictures & Dharma Productions

Producers: Vineet Jain, Karan Johar, Hiroo Yash Johar & Apoorva Mehta

Director: Meghana Gulzar

Star Cast: Alia Bhatt, Vicky Kaushal, Amruta Khanvilkar, Rajit Kapur, Shishir Sharma, Jaideep Ahlawat, Aman Vasisth, Sony Razdan, Arif Zakaria, Ashwath Bhatt et al.

Music: Tubby & Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy

In the past few years, Bollywood has churned out some very exciting spy thrillers like Ek Tha Tiger & Agent Vinod in the year 2012, D-Day in the year 2013, Bang Bang in the year 2014, Phantom & Baby in the year 2015, Tiger Zinda Hai in the year 2017 et al. Most of these films also had the role of a female spy who looked like she meant business and would easily kick ass. Katrina Kaif’s portrayal in the “Tiger” series is the most apt example. But imagine a spy who’s completely feminine replete with long, flowy hair & salwar kurtas et al. Anil Sharma did slightly touch upon this aspect in the year 2003 with his biggie movie The Hero: Love Story Of A Spy. Now Meghna Gulzar attempts to make a complete film on this aspect with Raazi.

The scripted scenario of Raazi unfolds the story of a young girl from India sent to Pakistan as an undercover agent. The year is 1971. Pakistan is all set to make a surprise attack on India & the Indian intelligence is trying it’s best to get the details.

Hidayat (Rajit Kapur) lives in Srinagar and travels to Pakistan for business. He is a part of the Indian intelligence but has convinced Pakistani Brigadier Syed (Shishir Sharma) that he works for them.

Hidayat is terminally ill and he asks Syed if he can get his daughter Sehmat (Alia Bhatt) married to Syed’s younger son Iqbal (Vicky Kaushal). Syed agrees and surprisingly, Sehmat also gives her nod. Sehmat is obviously being married to Iqbal to spy in the house of the Syeds and she gets adequate training from Khalid Mir (Jaideep Ahlawat) from Indian intelligence. Sehmat gets married and she gradually gets attached to Iqbal, who gives her the space and doesn’t force himself on her. Meanwhile Sehmat begins her surveillance and finds out crucial information regarding naval attacks planned by Pakistan against India. However the challenges faced by Sehmat are immense and one wrong move can prove fatal for her. What happens next forms the crux of the story.

Meghna Gulzar’s direction is impressive. Despite the content being niche, she tries to tell the story in a commercial format. She does falter at places but overall, manages to do justice to the plot.

Raazi is based on Harinder S Sikka’s novella “Calling Sehmat”. The story is novel and stands out from the rest of the spy films as the lead character goes to any lengths, morals be damned. And this bit comes across very nicely. Bhavani Iyer & Meghna Gulzar’s screenplay is a mixed bag. In most of the scenes, it’s simplistic & engrossing.

Raazi doesn’t commence on a high note but grips the viewers very well. The characters are well established and Sehmat agreeing for the dangerous mission could have come across as not so believable. But thankfully that doesn’t happen. Her training sequence is interesting but the film gets better once she moves to Pakistan. Though the film drops for a while, it picks up brilliantly in the intermission point when Sehmat drives the Jonga jeep (military jeep). Arguably it’s the best part of the film. Post interval, the film has some engaging moments but at the same time, the film begins to slow down. There should have been a more gripping cat & mouse chase game but that never really happens. The manner in which Sehmat is able to escape suspicion most of the times is very unconvincing. The finale however makes up for the minuses to an extent. Some of the scenes however get complicated. For instance, some of the details provided by Khalid during Sehmat’s training is difficult to process as it is presented too quickly. Also the interest drops in some scenes. Meghna Gulzar’s dialogues are simple & neat and are very craftily written.

Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy’s music is very melodious but won’t be remembered, except for “Ae Watan”. The song has an anthem like feel and can get a longer shelf life if it’s played on the festive occasion of Independence Day & Republic Day celebrations in the country. The title track gets noticed while “Dibaro” is completely relegated to the background.

Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy & Tubby’s background score is quite exhilarating. Jay I Patel’s cinematography works big time. The exterior shots of Kashmir are simply breathtaking. Nitin Baid’s editing is nice but should have been more razor sharp. Subrata Chakraborty & Amit Ray’s production design is very authentic. Maxima Basu Golani’s costumes are appealing. Harpal Singh’s action is subtle and not very detailed.

Performance wise it is Alia Bhatt who delivers a powerhouse act and this is surely one of her most accomplished works. Her character is living a double life and she brings out this aspect very nicely. In the emotional & breakdown sequences, she shines! Vicky Kaushal has a limited screen time but he leaves a mark. His character is sure to be loved. Rajit Kapur is quite endearing. Jaideep Ahlawat is very good. This talented actor deserves to be seen more in movies. Shishir Sharma is quite dependable. Notice how endearing he looks when he’s interacting with Sehmat but transforms in another avatar altogether when he’s talking business. Amruta Khanvilkar as Munira is lovely. Arif Zakaria as Abdul plays a dynamic role with panache. Ashwath Bhatt as Mehboob has a small role but is effective. Soni Razdan as Teji is okay. Other actors also do a good job.

Tail Piece: On the whole, Raazi is an interesting thriller which has been brilliantly narrated by Meghna Gulzar that makes for mature viewing. It is a film that celebrates nationalism that is devoid of the colors of religion.

At the box office, it has the potential to grow with positive word of mouth and keep its makers happy. Period.

Akshay Kumar & Twinkle Khanna Served With A Legal Notice

Just recently Akshay Kumar & Twinkle Khanna have been served with a legal a legal notice. 11 serving defence officers & 8 others have sent a legal notice to actors Akshay Kumar & Twinkle Khanna, accusing the Bollywood couple of “playing with the sentiment” of the armed forces by putting up for auction a naval costume from the Hindi film Rustom.

The group, which also included the wife of a Navy man & 7 retired officers, said that it was offensive that the actors had listed the costume as an “original naval uniform”.

“Uniforms resembling those of the armed forces pose a potential threat to national security as the said uniform, insignia & badges could pass off for genuine service clothing and can find their way to anti-national elements who in turn can use it to foment trouble,” the notice stated.

A copy of the notice has also been sent to the auction house Salt Scout and the office of the defence minister. The officers urged the minister to take action against the actors and to stop the auctioning of the outfit that Akshay Kumar wore in the 2016 film, a fictional account loosely based on the real-life case of Naval Officer K. M. Nanavati, charged with & then acquitted of killing his wife.

“…by putting in auction “Akshay Kumar’s Rustom Naval Officer Uniform” you have shown no respect for national interest but have also played with the sentiments of armed forces personnel and their widows including my clients, who are retired, as well as serving armed forces officials & their family members,” the notice read.

Akshay Kumar had put the outfit up for the auction on 26th Apr, 2018 in support of an NGO working for the cause of animal rescue & welfare.

“Hi, all I’m thrilled to announce that you can bid to win the actual naval officer uniform I wore in Rustom. Auction’s proceeds will support the cause of animal rescue & welfare. Place your bid at http://www.SaltScout.com,” he wrote. The bid, which will end on 26th May, 2018, currently stands Rs at 2,35,000.

Vaani – The Seductive Temptress In Ranbir Kapoor’s Shamshera!

Vaani Kapoor is now the latest seductive temptress in Ranbir Kapoor’s upcoming movie namely Yash Raj Films Shamshera.

Vaani Kapoor after her most sizzling act in Yash Raj Films Befikre with Ranveer Singh is now all set to sizzle like never before in Yash Raj Films Shamshera starring Ranbir Kapoor in & as Shamshera.

This mega action adventure Shamshera starring Ranbir Kapoor is being directed by none other than Karan Malhotra. Vaani Kapoor will play the character of the most desirable & the most sought after travelling performer from heartland India.

Director Karan Malhotra avers, “Vaani Kapoor plays Ranbir Kapoor’s love interest in the film and is a very important collaborator in his character’s journey. Her character graph is interlinked to the plot of the film making her a crucial catalyst in our hero’s rebellious mission.”

Moreover Karan Malhotra adds, “Vaani Kapoor is a perfect fit for the role. She is a fine actor, a fabulous dancer & over and above a gorgeous Hindi film heroine. We wanted someone absolutely fresh to wow the audiences on the big celluloid silver screen and she beautifully fits that brief.”

Yash Raj Films (YRF)’s high-octane, larger-than-life entertainer will have jaw-dropping action sequences and Ranbir Kapoor in a never seen before avatar. Sanjay Dutt plays the merciless nemesis of Ranbir Kapoor in the project.

Shamshera is set to go on the floors by the end of this year and the entire shooting will be wrapped up by mid 2019.

Urvashi Rautela On A Clarification Spree

Urvashi Rautela recently stated that as of now she only want to focus on her work, and not to get involved in any more controversies. “No more controversy. Only Focus on work.” Seems to be the latest mantra of Urvashi rautela Urvashi Rautela.
Just like any other business, Bollywood also has people with conflicting opinions & false allegations. However, the difference lies in the fact that most of our snide remarks fade away in no time but the statements or false allegations on celebrities kick off controversies and become decorated headlines in no time.
Since few days many things have been said & written on none other than Urvashi Rautela, her manager Prashant as well as her upcoming untitled movie. Buzz is, a certain make-up artiste is miffed with Urvashi Rautela & her manager because of his behavior. It’s also written that Urvashi is throwing tantrums & irking everybody on the sets of the film, where she is playing a character of a middle-class girl, Bhanupriya.
When contacted Prashant, Urvashi’s manager, stated, “There wasn’t any offensive exchange between us. It’s a false story and every bit of the story has been twisted. It’s true that because of the unavailability of a certain make-up artiste, we had to hire another one for the movie, but it’s also true that ditching a film in the middle of it and taking up another work, is unprofessional. So I just asked him to give me in writing. It has been twisted & turned into a controversy which is really sad.
Talking about the real story, Urvashi Rautelas averred, “These things keep happening and people will say things, but that doesn’t mean it’s true and I don’t react to everything. I don’t want to put my focus & energy on anything else except my film. Even the movie I am doing because of the beautiful script though the director is making a debut with this film.”

3 Attachments

One of Bollywood’s most iconic megastar’s & India’s very own “Pad Man” Akshay Kumar is supporting a nationwide campaign, #18to82, with the aim of bridging the gap between the 18% of menstruating females in India who use sanitary napkins, and the 82% predominantly engaging in unhygienic practices. The pioneering campaign launches ahead of the inauguration of the Niine Movement, an ambitious new initiative aimed at raising awareness of menstrual hygiene and tackling the age-old stigma against menstruation across both genders and all age groups.

Akshay Kumar is a renowned woman empowerment advocate and boldly tackled the issue of the menstrual taboo in the award-winning film Pad Man. In fact he supports the Niine Movement as a continued champion of the cause of menstrual hygiene. Akshay Kumar took to social media to supportthe #18to82 campaign with the message:

“ONLY 18% of Indian women use sanitary napkins vs 82% who use unhygienic means. I support the #NIINEMovement which breaks the taboos & encourages conversations on periods.”

Help bridge the gap from #18to82, register on www.niine.com

Speaking about his support for the Niine Movement, Akshay Kumar averred; “Open & unafraid conversations on menstruation are powerful as they help to breakdown taboos. I am honoured to support the Niine Movement with the launch of the #18to82 campaign, because menstrual hygiene is an urgent issue that we must resolve in India.

Together we can ensure that every female has the right to manage her period safely & with dignity, and the Niine Movement can drive the social revolution that India needs to initiate change for an entire country. The empowerment of women is the empowerment of a nation.”

Despite India housing 355 million menstruating women, the 2nd highest menstruating population globally, approximately only 18% of them currently use sanitary napkins – with the other 82% of women often reverting to unhygienic & unsafe alternatives such as old cloths, rags, hay & even ash. The key stimulus behind this staggering statistic can be traced back to decades of archaic attitudes & stigmas surrounding menstruation and the lack of accessibility for safe and affordable sanitary products. A result of the unwillingness to discuss female menstruation is the subsequent culture of silence & shame which has left women with no choice but to partake in unsafe menstrual practices behind closed doors, frequently resulting in urinary & reproductive tract infections, stress, anxiety & even gender-based violence.

The Niine Movement is conceived by social entrepreneur Amar Tulsiyan. Speaking about the launch of the movement Amar Tulsiyan said, “We each have a responsibility to do what we can to tackle the taboos around menstruation and educate the next generation about periods in the right way. It is my hope that through the #18to82 campaign the Niine Movement becomes the spark that leads the way in bringing menstrual hygiene & dignity to every woman & girl in India.”

An ambitious 5 year plan committed to grass-root change, the Niine Movement will be launched at the Menstrual Awareness Conclave taking place in Delhi on Menstrual Hygiene Awareness Day on 28th May, 2018. The Menstrual Awareness Conclave will convene renowned film personalities, academics, policymakers, government officials, activists, business stalwarts, NGOs, thought-leaders, including Akshay Kumar, to discuss the impact that stigma & taboos on menstruation have had on holding girls & women back for centuries.

Join & follow the Nine Movement’s #18to82 campaign following & liking the campaign on @NiineMovement on twitter, facebook & instagram.

The Niine Movement is an ambitious 5-year plan that aims to tackle the taboos associated with menstruation by engaging all genders & ages to step forward and join hands to promote the importance of menstrual hygiene awareness.

Understanding the need for collective effort to change mindsets, the Niine Movement intends to use its convening power to engage multi-sector groups in India – from governments, corporate & NGO community, to sustain not only a discussion but encourage affirmative action on addressing menstrual hygiene management. To achieve its vision, the Niine Movement’s theory of change adopts a 3 pronged approach by: Educating girls, women, boys & men of good menstrual hygiene practices. Enrolling citizens & existing menstrual hygiene product users in a supportive & taboo free environment to create an open forum for discussion & deliberation. Enhancing the sanitation sector of India by providing the best quality menstrual hygiene products at appropriate prices.

Reflecting its vision for a new & better Swachh Bharat, which begins & is driven by girls & woman, Niine also reflects 9 core ways a nation can achieve its full potential if we support menstruating girls & women, using the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), the 17 goals that world leaders agreed to achieving by 2030 to end world poverty, tackle climate change & reduce inequalities, as an index.

SHEEBA & AKASHDEEP TO ACT IN A PLAY!

Sheeba, who was last seen on the TV show Haasil, has now shifted her focus to theatre. And her latest play Golmaal, holds a special place in her heart as she will be acting for the 1st time alongside her husband, producer Akashdeep. They will play spouses in the play. Sheeba says, “This is the 1st time ever I am acting with Akashdeep. Previously, I have worked with him on projects he has directed. I have always been a director’s actor & I surrender myself to his vision. Then he was the boss, but now, I am the boss… both in real life & in this play. As an actor, I disconnect from my personal equation when I am working, which is what people witness when Akashdeep & I rehearse together. They can see bits of Sheeba in my character, but never my relationship with him. I don’t like my personal & professional lives to intermingle.” Unlike many, the actress doesn’t see it as an advantage to work with her spouse. “There is no advantage at all. I can say a lot of things and have arguments with my co-actors. However, it’s not easy to do that with your spouse as it might affect your relationship back home!” The play will premiere this month only.

PAYAL GHOSH BAGS THE “BEST DEBUT” AWARD FOR ‘PATEL KI PUNJABI SHAADI’

Actress Payal Ghosh who debuted in 2017’s rom com Patel Ki Punjabi Shaadi is on cloud 9 currently after she recently bagged an award at Radio City’s Mumbai City Icon Awards. Payal was awarded for her performance in the film and received her trophy from the Mayor of Mumbai, Shri Vishwanath Mahadeshwar & RJ Gaurav. Payal is happy that the film is giving her accolades as well as more projects, “It was a dream debut for her as she shared screen space with Stalwarts like Rishi Kapoor, Paresh Raval & Prem Chopra. The amount one can learn just being around them is priceless and winning this award is the cherry on the cake” says a source. Gushing about her award Payal says, “It always a great feeling when your work is appreciated and an award is like a validation to the hard work an actor puts in to create a character. Patel Ki Punjabi Shaadi was such an enriching experience for me and getting this award just makes it that much more special” she signs off.

RAVEENA TANDON APPEALS THE GOVERNMENT TO BAN ANIMAL CIRCUSES

Animals suffering in circuses have a fresh ray of hope, with the outspoken actor Raveena Tandon now supporting their freedom. The actor has written to the Minister of Environment, Forests & Climate Change to impose a “complete & immediate end” to the use of all animals in circuses. She joins another actor Dia Mirza, who had also asked the Government to end animal circuses. In the letter, Raveena observed “I believe that it is time we dissociate cruelty from entertainment, and let these majestic creatures be where they belong. Our culture also has many traditional art forms which showcase the skill of our artists. They should be adopted by circuses to evolve into an engaging & healthy entertainment” Raveena Tandon supports the Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organisations (FIAPO), which has been campaigning for the freedom of these abused animals. Lending her support & appreciation to their work she said, “I express my support to FIAPO’s End Circus Suffering campaign, which has helped hundreds of circus animals to be freed from this cruel form of entertainment. I urge you to consider the universal cruelty to animals in this industry and impose a complete & immediate end to the use of all animals in circuses.”

DHANUSH TO UNVEIL INDIA POSTER OF ‘EXTRAORDINARY JOURNEY OF FAKIR’ IN CANNES

Dhanush starrer The Extraordinary Journey Of Fakir, an Indo-French production, will be showcased in Cannes this year in one of the many events on the sidelines of the festival. The India poster for the film will be unveiled by the cast & the film will be honored at the India Day celebrations at the festival on 11th May, 2018 along with Manto. The “comic adventure” directed by Ken Scott is Dhanush’s 1st ever international project and will be released in English & French. The French producer of the film is Brio Films of Luc Bossi, who has also co-written the film. The film is not an art house cinema even though it’s based on a French novella, “The Extraordinary Journey of The Fakir Who Got Trapped In An Ikea Wardrobe”, by Romain Uertolas. “While the book was in a fantastical zone, the film is an accessible fable, an entertainer and is a stellar salad of a cast from all continents, held together by Dhanush.” The film also stars Bernice Bejo, Gerard Jugnot, Erin Moriarty & Barkhad Abdi. The film is set in Mumbai, Paris, Falklands, Spain, Rome & Libya, and will release in France on 30th May, 2018. The film has turned out to be a “true collaboration between India & France” for its makers and is expected to attract audiences in both countries.

KARAN JOHAR IS BOLLYWOOD’S 1ST EVER FILMMAKER TO BE AT MADAME TUSSAUDS

Joining his peers of Bollywood, Karan Johar will now have his wax statue at Madame Tussauds later this year. As Karan’s film Kuch Kuch Hota Hai will complete 2 decades this year, he now has another reason to celebrate. Karan Johar will be the 1st ever Indian filmmaker to enter the world renowned attraction. Karan being the unique & wonderful personality that he is, he has been an extremely popular name that fans & visitors at the attraction enquired about. Karan’s talent & career goes well beyond just filmmaking which makes him an exciting & entertaining personality for them to add to many other iconic International wax figures. Additionally, Karan’s figure will not just be launched in 1 city but will simultaneously head out on tour across Asia to give his many fans across the world a chance to experience him being waxed. The procedures have begun & the figure will be ready in 6 months.

‘DAKHILA’ ANNNOUNCEMENT PARTY

Producers Chandrshekhar SK, Rajesh Mugullu & Writer-Director Ajit Varma held a party at Take It Easy to announce their film Dakhila recently. The film is being made under the banner of Tirupati Productions & Aaraat Entertainment. Present at the party were Shabaaz Khan, South Star Riaz Khan (who is playing the central character). Also starring in the film are Rajpal Yadav, debutante Surya Dev Malik, Raj Chohan, South Star Suchitra Bannerji, Sandip Bharadwaj, Ashok Beniwal, Supriya Karnik, Kulwant Singh, Asif Ali, Manish Khanna & Shiraz Mustafa.

HANSAL MEHTA & ‘OMERTA’ IN TROUBLE AGAIN

Hansal Mehta known for his socially relevant films is on the wrong side of the law now. The Supreme Court through its arbitrator Samrat Sen has attached the revenue paid to Hansal from all projects involving him in varied capacities beginning with Omerta which releases next month. Adarsh Telemedia, a film production house bankrolled by Amit Agarwal, lent a sum of over Rs 7 crore to Hansal and producer Shaailesh Singh for the film Simran when demonetization struck Bollywood along with the rest of India. Mehta had convinced the Calcutta based Adarsh Telemedia to bail the film by lending a sum against a minimum guarantee which got the film released in Sept, last year. The arbitrator,a senior legal counsel already came heavily on Mehta and his production house, ironically called Karma, when Adarsh Telemedia filed a law suit against Mehta and couple of his associates. Mehta moved on to other projects ignoring the constant reminders from Amit Agarwal and the production house got an arbitration order in their favor. As per the order, whatever Mehta earns to the tune of 7 Cr, should be deposited in a separate bank account. It is now expected that other projects like Balaji’s Mental Hai Kya? The Scam, The Accidental Prime Minister, Garbage, Bose Dead or Alive & Ronnie Screwvala, a film with director Bejoy Nambiar, a proposed Abhishek-Aishwarya Rai starrer & Soha Ali Khan’s biopic on Ram Jethmalani may fall under the radar of the recovery of Adarsh Telemedia.

MUMBAI GETS THE TRIPPIEST PARTY VENUE: LSD–NO LIMITS

Mumbai’s most exclusive party destination, LSD night club has opened its door on 26th Apr, 2018 in Andheri to fun & party lovers in Mumbai. It is a luxurious & elegant, highly-anticipated new entrant to Mumbai’s Nightclub lovers. The club and experience have been designed to suit Indian sensibilities. The excitement & curiousness of the guests was palpable as they walked through the doors of this enormous venue. The outlet offers the best cocktails, international delicacies & mouth-watering cuisines all under one roof. LSD has an extensive variety of domestic & international liquors paired with scrumptious food. At the opening night, LSD witnessed as a star-studded creme da la creme at the launch of this swanky & impressive new venue. The evening was graced by the presence of renowned personalities like Siddharth Shukla, Bhagyashree and Himalaya, Raghav, Jaideep Ahlawat, Dharmesh, Barun Sobti, Chirag Sethi, Karan Singh Chhabra, Zeeshan Quadri, Deepak Kalra, Kunal Jai Singh, Sahil Anand, Amrinder Singh and many more from the industry. We have made sure there is something to satiate every palate in a warm & friendly environment. We have intentionally combined the psychedelic trip of graffiti’s with contemporary architect to present a nightclub which is one of its kind in Mumbai.” says Lovelesh Kumar, Director Lsd.

TEASER POSTER OF ‘BIOSCOPEWALA’ RELEASES

A modern day reading of Tagore’s heart wrenching classic, Kabuliwala, Bioscopewala extrapolates the characters & their conflicts, exploring alternative endings & experiences. Bioscopewala stars legendary actor Danny Denzongpa, Geetanjali Thapa, Tisca Chopra & Adil Hussain. Presented by Fox Star Studios in association with Star India, Bioscopewala is Produced by Sunil Doshi & directed by Deb Medhekar. Bioscopewala releases in theatres on 25th May 2018.

‘PHAMOUS’ TO RELEASE ON 1ST JUN 2018

The makers of Phamous have announced the new release date with a poster. Phamous starring Jimmy Sheirgill, Jackie Shroff, Kay Kay, Pankaj Tripathi, Mahie Gill & Shriya Saran in pivotal roles from the streets of Chambal is a story of power & lust will now release on 1st Jun, 2018. The trailer of the film has also been released

KUNAL KHEMU JOINS THE CAST OF ABHISHEK VARMAN’S KALANK

The shoot of director Abhishek Varman’s Kalank has been kick started in Mumbai. Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan & Madhuri Dixit have already started shooting. Now, Golmaal actor Kunal Khemu joins the ensemble cast which also includes Sonakshi Sinha, Aditya Roy Kapur & above all Sunjay Dutt. Abhishek Varman who is happy with Kunal’s performance has an important role for him. According to a source, “Abhishek feels Kunal is extremely promising and he has already shot a few scenes that the filmmaker has loved. “Kalank, produced by Fox Star Studios, Dharma Productions, & Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment is slated to release on 19th Apr, 2019.

THE TRAILER LAUNCH OF ‘3 DEV’
Producer Chintan Rana of 3 Dev along with Ayub Khan of E4U Enterprises launched the trailer of their film with Kay Kay Menon, Karan Singh Grover, Kunaal Roy Kapur, Ravi Dubey , Poonam Kaur & Priya Banerjee in Mumbai in the presence of Rajan Batra, Mahendra Kataria, Yogesh Lakhani of Bright Outdoor, Vaidehi of Laughing Colors. The film made under the banner of R2 Phillum Productions is directed by Ankoosh Bhatt. The dialogues in the trailer are quite funny which will make you laugh. The movie which also stars Raima Sen, Tisca Chopra & Bengali star Prosenjit Chatterjee, is scheduled for release on 1st Jun, 2018.

SHREYAS TALPADE & WIFE HAVE A BABY GIRL THROUGH SURROGACY

Shreyas Talpade & his wife Deepti have both been blessed with a baby girl. Married for 14 years, Shreyas and his wife were advised by doctors to consider surrogacy as the best option to have a baby and they decided to consider the process of surrogacy to complete their family. Shreyas says, “The scheduled day for the baby’s delivery was around 15th or 20th of this month. We had planned a small vacation to Hong Kong on the 7th. But the doctor suggested that the day of delivery might shift to around 10th or 12th. So we decided to go by the 2nd or 3rd and return by the 7th. After we landed in Hong Kong, we got ready, and were heading to the cruise terminal since we had planned to go on a cruise. While we were on our way, we got a call from the doctor saying that the surrogate is gone into labour and that we would have to return. We immediately returned. The baby was born while we were mid-air so we headed directly to the hospital. Shreyas says, “We have shortlisted a few names but we will decide a name for our baby in a day or two.”

PARINEETI CHOPRA IS SPEEDO INDIA’S NEW FITNESS AMBASSADOR

Speedo has appointed actress & fitness enthusiast Parineeti Chopra as their new fitness ambassador. As the new face for Speedo India, Parineeti will be joining an esteemed roster of Olympians, athletes & trainers from around the globe. Speedo as a brand, is synonymous with performance swimwear, and has been working to elevate the status of swimming for fitness & reinforce that water workouts are the next big trend to get fit and achieve a total body workout. Parineeti says, “I’m excited to come on board as the fitness ambassador for Speedo India. I’ve grown up wearing Speedo swim suits and for me swimming is synonymous with Speedo. A favorite around the world, I love that Speedo now celebrates fitness & overall health. Swimming has always been a great workout which I’ve often resorted to, to cut the monotony of working out in the gym.” The actress will be seen sporting Speedo’s new fitness range meant for workouts in & out of the pool called Speedo H2O Active.Shamir Genomal, Chief Strategy Officer, Speedo India said, “With a fitness enthusiast like Parineeti on board, we hope to reach a lot more consumers.”
RANVEER SINGH IS GIVING HIS VOICE TO ‘DEADPOOL 2’
The hugely anticipated Deadpool 2 is coming up in Hindi in the voice of none other than Ranveer Singh! Yes. Marvel’s motor mouth mercenary is back! Bigger, better and occasionally more pantless than ever before. When a super soldier arrives on a murderous mission, Deadpool is forced to think about friendship, family and what it really means to be a hero – all the while kicking 50 shades of ass. Because, sometimes, to do the right thing you need to fight dirty. Watch out for Deadpool 2 in theatres on 18th May, 2018!
ESHA GUPTA CHAMPIONS THE CAUSE OF EDUCATION – ADOPTS TWO VILLAGES IN UTTAR PRADESH!

Esha Gupta has now decided to adopt 2 villages in Uttar Pradesh’s Bijnor district to promote education. After having announced the creation of an academy that will look into the requirement of Indian footballers struggling with monetary concerns, Gupta has now taken the onus of 2 villages in the Bijnor district of Uttar Pradesh. Esha confirms, “There will be logistical issues, but I will personally look into it. Everyone has the right to education. There are many children in small towns who want to study and make a meaningful career, but don’t have the required amenities. If I can help them, I will feel privileged.” The project, which marks Esha’s collaboration with Delhi based NGO, will see her provide financial support to schools for the provision of basic amenities. Esha will provide funds for the appointment of teachers in the villages. The NGO will shortlist qualified teachers, who will be deputed to the locations. While Gupta will also enable the schools in purchasing projectors, the NGO will also raise money to build better toilets and open a local library where the children can study. The project will kick-off this month. Esha will travel to Bijnor soon to look into the nitty gritties.

SUSHANT SINGH RAJPUT’S LOOK IN ‘SONCHIRIYA’ BREAKING THE INTERNET!

Consistently delivering one fine performance after another, Sushant Singh Rajput has always managed to bowl audiences over with his character transformations .Known to get under the skin of his characters, the actor has done it again and is almost unrecognizable as the fierce & rugged dacoit in Abhishek Chaubey’s Sonchiriya.The fictional story is inspired by the tales of Chambal and is set in the 1970’s and Sushant is rumored to essay the role of a dacoit in the Chambal ravines. Known to go all out and live the life of his characters, the actor was director Abhishek Chaubey ‘s 1st ever choice for the role and we now know why ! Sushant’s transformation into the Chambal dacoit is striking and has taken the social media platform by storm, testimony to the massive anticipation surrounding the film and the actor’s role in it.

RAAJKUMAR’S SON PANINI PANDIT RESURFACES WITH MUSIC VIDEO ‘KAHU MEIN YA KAHU NA’
Panini Pandit, who is on cloud 9 after the success of his music video titled Kahu Main Ya Kahu Na confesses “We are getting 91% viewership, whereas the average viewership is about 50% to 55%. We already received a million hit but there is time to go. A mix of feelings, elation…these are very new feelings for me. Definitely, I am very satisfied and open to a good outcome because I owe that to my unit.” The video features Natasha Singh (of Dekh Bhai Dekh fame). The music is by Rupesh Verma & lyrics are penned by Ajay Garg, and the song sung by Anita Bhatt. The video, produced by Indivar Bhatia & Vastavikta Pandit has been shot in the beautiful locals of Uttarakhand”. Panini, who is the son of legendary actor Raaj Kumar, says “Had my Papa been alive, he would probably be opening a bottle of champagne, laughing & celebrating the moment with me. I think he would be proud of the simple fact that I stuck to the truth of my vision in my script and I didn’t compromise” he says. Panini is already working on his next music video. “After 2 months, my 2nd video directed by me will be released. It will be the 3rd release by Papa Plays in the music vertical,” he says.

LAWRENCE D’SOUZA LAUNCHES TRAILER & MUSIC OF ‘FALOODA’

The trailer & audio launch of Falooda was held with a great fanfare in Andheri recently. Renowned filmmaker Lawrence D’souza was the Chief Guest who was welcomed by producers Kanhaiya Lal V. Jain, Aakash Sharma, Harendra Singh Negi & Mahavir Jain. The film’s Music director Saumyadeep, Irti-Shivam, Rohit Sinha & Aasif Chandwani. Lyrics are penned by Alaukik Rahi. The singers are Victor Dey, Santosh Shandilya, Asit Tripathi, Deepali Sathe & Rehan Khan. The film’s story is about a delivery boy Ajay who has 2 wives Sheetal & Riya. The film starring Aarav Singh, Goonj Chand, Pihu Sharma, Gaurav Sharma & Dheeraj has been directed by Dheeraj Singh. The film is releasing all over on 18th May, 2018. Dheeraj Singh says, who had worked in the production team of the film Yarab & One Night Stand says, “Falooda is an out & out entertainer. I have learnt the ropes of direction too & if everything goes very well, I have also planned to start the sequel to Falooda very soon. I have followed the pattern of films Garam Masala & Bhaagam Bhaag. I have also played the character of Pappu in this film”.

SUDHANSHU PANDEY BOUNCES BACK AS A SINGER WITH HIS FIRST EVER SOLO SINGLE ‘TERI ADAA’

After a decade, Sudhanshu Pandey, has released his debut as a solo singer. Sudhanshu, who made a thumping entry into music with India’s 1st ever boy band, “A Band Of Boys”, will be seen playing an evil scientist in Rajinikanth’s 2.0 has just released his 1st ever solo single “Teri Adaa”. He has acted in the video and also produced it. Sudhanshu will be seen playing a mafia don in the single “Teri Adaa” which has been directed by Mehul Gadani. “I have partly written the lyrics along with composer Ravi Singhal. I did ads with Shashi Kapur’s son Kunal Kapoor. However, destiny had some other plans for me and I landed up being a part of country’s 1st ever boy band, “A Band of Boys,” said Sudhanshu, who was 1 of the protagonists in Anil Kapoor’s TV series 24 (Season 2).The Nainital boy, who has worked with fashion designers such as Rohit Bal & JJ Valaya left “A Band Of Boys” to pursue acting in films like Singh Is Kinng, Singham, Dus Kahaniyaan, Saas Bahu Aur Sensex, Yakeen, Murder 2 . Sudhanshu, who shared screen with Jackie Chan in his debut Hollywood film, The Myth, is in talks with directors of films, television & web series and will also be seen as one of the protagonists in a high-profile web-series backed by a Hollywood production house, based out of Sydney.

SHAKTI KAPOOR LAUNCHES THE POSTER & TEASER OF ‘THE JOURNEY OF KARMA’

Poonam Pandey & Shakti Kapoor are both making comebacks in an upcoming flick The Journey Of Karma Produced & directed by Jagbir Dahiya of Surya Entertainment. Ritesh Kumar, Kamlesh & Vrinda Dahiya, Music director Omkar etc were also present. Going with the tagline “Karma Has No Deadline”, The Journey Of Karma is about a girl who is financially very poor and stays with her mother. She has her own dreams to follow and she wants to study abroad but because of her financial conditions she is facing lot of problems. Then comes a guy (Shakti Kapoor) who loves her but because of age difference between the 2 of them he is not able to express his feelings. The whole movie is about the poor girl and the problems she faces in life to achieve her dreams and the people who wanted to take advantage of her situation as well as there is a guy who love her but can’t express it to her. The film stars Shakti Kapoor in an extremely different avatar. It is learnt that the veteran actor didn’t color his hair or trim his beard for as long as 3 months just to get the right look for this movie!

SMRITI SUBS IS THE ONLY INDIAN TO BE CROWNED AS “WORLD SWIMSUIT MODEL OF THE WEEK”

An Indian shortlisted as the world’s next Swimsuit Superstar is now a reality! The only Indian model to be selected & shortlisted amongst a bevy of international models – svelte & sensuous Smriti Subs has been crowned as “World Swimsuit Model Of The Week” in an online talent hunt platform. In addition to being “super sexy in a millennial way”, the bold & the beautiful Smriti beat several top swimsuit contenders as she clearly stands out from the rest of the pack due to her brown eyes and an extremely photogenic & versatile face. With her sharp & chiseled features, the sizzling lass can pass off as luscious Latin American lass in 1 picture and an alluring Asian in another. Smriti said, “Emerging as World Swimsuit Model Of The Week in the fact of intense international competition is a huge accomplishment! I have a naturally lean body and thanks to sports & fitness, I ensure that I stay fit & in shape. I also want to show the world that Indian Swimsuit Models have the discipline, commitment & above all professionalism to make it big on the global stage.” Sensual & photogenic, Smriti has worked with some of the leading Indian & international photographers across the country.
OPERA HOUSE TURNS 103 YEARS WITH THE TEAM OF ‘102 NOT OUT’
Turned 103 years old, the iconic Opera House of Mumbai witnessed a full-house starry attendance with the team of 102 Not Out. Director Umesh Shukla along with the legendary duo Amitabh Bachchan, Rishi Kapoor & Jimit Trivedi gathered at the grandiose to join the celebration. From sharing trivia about the film to bringing together the 2 actors, Umesh Shukla had great insights to share. Amitabh Bachchan was curious about his character, Dattacharya since he is 102 years old! Mr Bachchan said, “Initially in the older times the movie was used to be shot on a film reel and hence it was called the film industry. Today everything has turned digital and I wonder why we still address it as film industry.” Rishi Kapoor speaking about his initial journey as a child artiste from the film Shree 420, said, “I had to give a shot and it was raining that day. It was difficult for crew to prepare for the shot. The director came up with the idea to offer me chocolates to get the shot completed.”102 Not Out does not feature any leading lady in the film and yet it has piqued everybody’s interest owing to its unique storyline. ”The movie initially did not have any peppy number when Amitabh Bachchan came up with the idea of the song “Badumbaaa”. He took complete charge from composing to actually singing the track!
TILLOTAMA SHOME GOES TO CANNES WITH 2 FILMS!

Tillotama Shome, who plays the lead in Rohena Gera’s Sir, walked the red carpet for her film in Cannes which is in competition in the Critics Week. Tillotama Shome, who has gone to Cannes for the 1st time even though she has worked in several award winning films, has not 1 but 2 films that are in the competition sections. Apart from Sir, Tillotama also has a cameo in Manto which is competing in Un Certain Regard category. Shome says, “It is nerve-racking & overwhelming to know that I will see our film for the 1st time ever with so many people, in one of the world’s most prestigious film festival. I have never dreamt of this, so can’t even say that it is a dream come true.” Ekta Rajani, design consultant & ex – Fashion director of Grazia, who is styling Tillottama says, “Tillotama is comfortable, understated, sharp & modernly Indian in her personal choices of style. It aligns with so much I love as well; it’s effortless to dress her. But more than the sartorial compatibility here, it’s the fact that she is a free & strong thinker, a person of layers and insight with the stories she chooses to be part of, that draws me to her. ”

‘MUKTI BHAWAN’ TO RELEASE IN FRANCE, BELGIUM & SOUTH KOREA AFTER UK & OTHER COUNTRIES!

Mukti Bhawan (Hotel Salvation) is making strides the world over, after release in India, UK, South Africa, Middle East, Italy & Taiwan, the film got is released in France on 2nd May, 2018 and it is getting released in South Korea on 24th May, 2018 & in Belgium on 13th Jun, 2018. It is expected to release in other countries in Europe like Spain, Portugal, Germany & in Japan over the next few months. Shubhashish Bhutiani, Writer-Director of Mukti Bhawan is elated and said, “I am so thrilled that people from all over the world are having the chance to see the film on a big screen. It is encouraging, as a 1st time ever director, to see how people are connecting to these kind of stories, and I am so grateful to everyone who has supported & contributed to make & bring the film to audiences.” “C International Sales, UK have done a great job for our little gem in helping find distribution worldwide, it’s a been a terrific journey for the film and we are all delighted with these developments,” said Sanjay Bhutiani, Producer of Mukti Bhawan. The film opened to a 10 minute standing ovation at the 73rd Venice International Film Festival 2016 and received the UNESCO Gandhi Medal & XXIIIrd Enricho Fulchignoni 2016 Awards by UNESCO, a 1st ever for an Indian Director & film. It has been invited to over 60 International Film Festivals & has bagged 29 Awards till date, including Filmfare Award for “Best Screenplay” and 2 Special Mention National Awards 2016 for “Best Film” & “Best Actor” (Male) to Adil Hussain.