Author: Jyothi Venkatesh

In a significant move for Indo-US cinema, US-based Red Bison Productions has partnered with Mumbai’s Azure Entertainment to produce a cross-border feature film inspired by a true story. The collaboration marks Azure Entertainment’s first Hollywood venture and signals a growing momentum in global storytelling between India and the United States. The yet-untitled film will be written and directed by Harsh Mahadeshwar. The story follows the emotional and cultural journey of an immigrant family navigating life beyond the traditional idea of the American Dream. Rooted in realism and shaped for a global audience, the narrative explores identity, belonging and resilience across…

A decade may have passed since its release, but Fitoor continues to charm audiences, proving that great cinema is timeless. Starring Katrina Kaif and Aditya Roy Kapur, the romantic drama celebrates its 10-year anniversary this year, and producer Pragya Kapoor reflects on how the film shaped her understanding of filmmaking and producing. Fitoor, directed by Abhishek Kapoor, is an adaptation of Charles Dickens’ 1861 classic, Great Expectations. The film’s blend of romance, music, and visual storytelling has kept it relevant even today. From the stunning Kashmir landscapes to the soulful songs and the nuanced performances, Fitoor has created a cinematic…

The makers of Shatak: Sangh Ke 100 Varsh have released the film’s much-anticipated trailer, narrated by Bollywood superstar Ajay Devgn. Known for his deep and resonant voice, Devgn brings a powerful emotional depth to the first glimpse of the film, setting the tone for its sweeping narrative. Rooted in themes of sacrifice, resilience, and nation-first values, the trailer takes viewers on a century-long journey inspired by the words of Guruji M. S. Golwalkar Ji, reflecting the Sangh’s enduring spirit and impact over generations. Through documented sources and evocative visuals, the film seeks to explore chapters of history that are lesser-known,…

Actor and reality television personality Archana Gautam has once again found herself at the centre of attention, this time for a gesture rooted in faith. Currently seen in the reality show The 50, Archana has carried Mata Rani’s chunni with her into the house, adding a deeply spiritual dimension to her journey on the programme. Archana first became a household name with her outspoken and fearless presence in Bigg Boss 16. She later showcased her adventurous side in Khatron Ke Khiladi and impressed audiences with her culinary efforts in Celebrity MasterChef. Across formats, she has built a reputation for being…

The 25th Bharat Rang Mahotsav, organised by the National School of Drama, continued to reaffirm its stature as the world’s largest international theatre festival. The day featured a vibrant mix of folk traditions, contemporary narratives and classical reinterpretations, drawing audiences into diverse cultural landscapes. A major highlight was ‘Faces of Olonkho’, directed by Dr Mariia Markova. Inspired by motifs from the Sakha heroic epic, the Russian production brought Arctic folklore to life through a visually immersive performance. Equally compelling was ‘Mehroon’, written by Sarah Marriam and directed by Amitesh Grover. This Hindi and Bengali drama from Mumbai explored layered emotions…

The historic landmark Bhidewada in Maharashtra, renowned as the site where Mahatma Jyotiba Phule and Krantijyoti Savitribai Phule established the country’s first girls’ school, is set to inspire audiences on the Marathi silver screen. The forthcoming film ‘Bhidewada’ captures the legacy of these social reformers and the enduring journey of women’s education, connecting the struggles of the past with contemporary social challenges. Produced by Shivmudra Studios and presented by Ragho Films, the film is directed by Shivani Rajeshirke and Ajit Shirole, with production led by Jayashree Shirole and Kaveri Javale. The co-producers include Supriya Shinde, Vaibhav Joshi, and Raju Witkar,…

Twenty-five-year-old singer Faiz Mustafa, known for his work in films like Heropanti 2 and Maidaan, has recently lent his voice to the soulful track “Zara Zara” from the upcoming silent film Gandhi Talks. Composed by A.R. Rahman, the song forms an integral part of the film, and Faiz recently performed it at the musical event alongside the maestro and singer Hinanaaz Bali, receiving warm applause from the audience. Born into a family deeply rooted in Hindustani classical music, Faiz belongs to the Rampur-Sahaswan Gharana. His grandfather, Padma Vibhushan Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan, trained several prominent musicians, including Rahman himself, Sonu…

The Marathi historical drama ‘Ranpati Shivaji Swari Agra’ promises to transport audiences back to one of the most daring chapters of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s life, his bold and strategic invasion of Agra. Produced jointly by Panorama Studios and Mugafi, and written and directed by Digpal Lanjekar, the film combines bravery, diplomacy, and political strategy in a gripping retelling of history. One of the highlights of the film is the inclusion of veteran Hindi cinema actor Puneet Issar, who portrays the powerful historical figure Mirza Raje Jaisingh. Known for his commanding screen presence, especially as Duryodhana in the Mahabharata series, Issar…

Zee Media Corporation’s flagship initiative, ZEE Samvaad with Real Heroes 2026, celebrated remarkable achievers from cinema, sports, governance, and social leadership in a glittering ceremony held in Mumbai. The fourth edition of this prestigious platform brought together a galaxy of talent, including actors Sonu Sood, Kareena Kapoor, Adah Sharma, Mona Singh, Palak Muchhal, Mithoon, Ahan Shetty, Madhur Bhandarkar, and Isha Kopikkar, alongside yoga guru Baba Ramdev, policymakers like Nitesh Rane and Kripashankar Singh, leading sports icons, and inspiring changemakers from diverse fields. The event honoured individuals whose courage, compassion, and commitment continue to shape a progressive India. It highlighted stories…

Popular television drama Anupama takes a dramatic turn with the entry of Priyanka Bajaj Sibal as Kirti, a bold and sharply defined antagonist who is set to shake up the storyline. Known for her strong screen presence and international accolades, Priyanka brings a fresh intensity to the long running series. Kirti is not a character who works quietly behind the scenes. She is direct, perceptive and unapologetically dominant. From the moment she appears, she commands attention. Her presence signals a shift in the emotional and strategic balance of the show. With calculated moves and psychological depth, Kirti adds a gripping…