The past year has truly showcased Aparshakti Khurana’s versatility as an actor. The actor started his acting career with Aamir Khan's 'Dangal' portraying the character of Omkar Phogat, he soon became a favourtie with his amazing screen presence and comic-timing.. On his birthday, let’s take a closer look at some of his standout films that highlight his range and talent. Stree 2 Recently, ‘Stree 2’ had a successful theatrical run, where Aparshakti reprised his role as Bittu. His comedic performance was not only widely appreciated but also played a key role in making the film one of the highest-grossing of the year. Berlin In ‘Berlin’, Aparshakti surprised audiences by playing a sign language expert, a role that further proves his versatility. The film has been praised since its release on OTT, and his nuanced performance in this unique role has earned him further recognition. ‘Jubilee’ Aparshakti’s portrayal of Binod Das in the OTT series ‘Jubilee’ last year earned critical acclaim, showcasing his depth as an actor and his ability to handle complex characters. These projects reflect the significant impact Aparshakti Khurana has had on Indian cinema. Looking ahead, he will be seen in the romantic drama ‘Badtameez Gill’ alongside Paresh Rawal and Vaani Kapoor, which is slated to hit theaters soon. Additionally, he has a documentary titled ‘Finding Ram’ in the pipeline.
18 November,2024 06:50 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentZeenat Aman is one of the most loved actresses of Bollywood. The actress is known for her sassy Instagram posts. Today, a day before her birthday, let's look back at the post where she has listed iconic roles she would have loved to play. Zeenat took to Instagram, where she shared pictures from her photoshoot. While sharing the pictures she said that her photos are of actress Audrey Hepburn inspired. Zeenat Aman's Audrey Hepburn-inspired photoshoot Zeenat took to the caption and wrote: "How do you like this look? I find it quite Hepburn-inspired! As a model and actor, creative collaborations are so interesting because you get to see yourself as others see you. It also involves trust and patience." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Zeenat Aman (@thezeenataman) 9 roles Zeenat Aman wished to play She then went on to list roles she would've loved to play. Zeenat added: "Speaking of Hepburn has me thinking about all the talented actors whose work I've enjoyed over the years. Here's a list of iconic roles I would have loved to play: 1. Tanya McQuoid in White Lotus, played with dotty perfection by Jennifer Coolidge. 2. Rosie in Guide, played by the ever graceful Waheeda Rehman. 3. Anarkali in Mughal-e-Azam, played exquisitely by Madhubala. 4. Cesira in Two Women, played so unflinchingly by Sophia Loren. 5. Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada, played with icy nonchalance by Meryl Streep. 6. Shashi Godbole in English Vinglish, played masterfully by Sridevi. 7. Jessica Rabbit in Who Framed Roger Rabbit, seductively voiced by Kathleen Turner. 8. Miss Piggy in The Muppets, voiced by various artists over the years. 9. Anda by popular demand and for my own amusement - Moira Rose from Schitt's Creek, played by the brilliant Catherine O' Hara." She then concluded, "I just have to appreciate the acting prowess of all these women. They gave us characters that will resonate for decades. Who are the female characters in cinema and tv that have inspired you? Don't be shy to be creative with your suggestions!" Here’s wishing the legend, and a star, a very happy birthday!
18 November,2024 05:40 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentYesterday, Zeenat Aman started sharing a story about how she signed on for Raj Kapoor's Satyam Shivam Sundaram. The veteran actress, who is set to star in Bun Tikki, concluded her Instagram post by talking about how she reached the cottage where Raj Kapoor was staying, dressed in traditional clothing to embody 'Rupa.' Today, she continued her story and shared how she was officially inducted into the movie. Zeenat Aman says gold guineas given by Raj Kapoor were stolen She ended her caption yesterday saying, “When I reached The Cottage I was greeted at the door by John, Rajji's (Raj Kapoor) right-hand man. He looked quizzically at me but followed my request - ‘Saabji ko kaho ki Rupa ayi hai.'” Starting her story again, she stated, "Continued from yesterday Ever-reliable John delivered my message, and soon ushered me into Rajji’s view. Oh! How amused was the great director to see me dressed as a maimed village belle!" Talking about what transpired after she presented herself, Zeenat recalled, "I later learnt that he was very moved that an actress of my stature would go to such lengths to prove herself. When his laughter died down, Rajji excused himself to make a telephone call. Twenty minutes later, his most gracious wife Krishna ji was at the door with a handful of gold guineas in her purse. Rajji handed these to me with great aplomb as my signing amount… and so it was that I came to be Rupa." Zeenat Aman reveals Satyam Shivam Sundaram's money was stolen from her But the most shocking part of the story was undoubtedly the fact that the signing-on money was stolen from her home. The veteran actress said, "I held onto those guineas for decades until they were stolen from my home a few years ago. Still, given a choice between this memory and that gold, I will always choose the memory." "On another note, the image in my previous post depicts Rajji fixing my scars on set. The glue used to give me this appearance played absolute havoc on my skin for weeks! As for this wonderful picture of me with the Kapoors. I can’t for the life of me remember where it was taken! Any film buffs out there who can give me a clue?" She concluded.
18 November,2024 05:31 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentWhen Taba Chake stepped into a director’s Mumbai office for a scheduled meeting, he recalled having come across a series of film posters, one among which caught his eye. Madras Cafe (2013) had been among his favourite movies, but it was only then that he learned that the man he was set to meet was the one who had helmed the John Abraham-starrer. “Until then, I didn’t know who Shoojit Sircar was,” recalls Chake. “Madras Cafe is a film that left me impressed. Apart from the fact that it is really nice, it also featured a [fine performance by] John Abraham, who doesn’t do artistic films. He was invested in the art and the role. It made me wonder which director made this person act so well,” recalls Chake, the musical backbone of Sircar’s latest film, the Friday release, I Want to Talk. Shoojit Sircar (right) Abhishek Bachchan in the film During the initial interactions, Sircar had curtailed the amount of film-related information that was to be shared with Chake. Having admired the musician’s work, especially his philosophy on life, Sircar, we’re told, did not wish to distract him with details relating to the narrative. “But, he dropped a few hints. They wanted five songs, but I ended up writing more than 15. When I finished the first draft, I sought details like the surrounding in which they were shooting, whether it was a dry area, and if [the protagonist] would be surrounded by vehicles. Visualising these aspects helps me compose. For example, if you listen to the song, Dil ghabraye, you’ll notice that it is a number that comes from the heart; a person wants to say something, but they know they’re simply talking to themselves because, perhaps, they feel rejected. Similarly, the song Musafir was [shot in dry land]. I wanted to retain that aspect. The film [revolves around] a man. Men are known to hide their emotions and pain. So, I wanted the song’s music to tell the story. [I wanted the listener] to feel thirsty, as though they needed water while hearing it. That’s also how I felt when I was composing it.” Amid a spate of film songs that may appear all too similar, Chake’s compositions are a breath of fresh air. Listening to the soundtrack of Abhishek Bachchan’s I Want to Talk, we’re reminded of the novelty introduced into the industry by Gehraiyaan composers Oaff and Savera, who took Bollywood by storm upon the film’s 2022 release. Chake says it was this novelty in his music that caught the attention of Sircar. The director, he says, appreciated that he refrained from discussing oft-explored subjects of love and heartbreak, choosing instead to create meaningful music. “He said that though he has seen many independent artistes at work, he felt that my song-writing gives hope to people and boosts [their morale] during negative situations. This is why he said this project belonged to me. He said he could visualise my face and hear my voice while thinking about the film.” Although Chake celebrates the addition of this film to his resume, he wasn’t seeking a project of this nature. “I’m happy living my life independently, and am doing quite well. I am doing several shows each day and have been busy with song-writing assignments throughout the year. Several tours and collaborations are also underway, so I am always busy. While I never imagined a project like that coming my way, I have been keen to compose. I thought I’d get an offer for one song, but bagging the entire film was a huge [accomplishment].”
18 November,2024 04:55 PM IST | Mumbai | Sonia LullaOne’s blockbuster re-releasing in theatres can be a sweet reminder of the long way they’ve come in their career. But filmmaker Rakesh Roshan is still feeling the Friday jitters, ahead of the November 22 release of Karan Arjun (1995). “It’s a test for me and filmmakers to see whether those emotions work with today’s younger generation,” he explains. Hrithik Roshan and Ranbir Kapoor Jitters or not, the director agrees that a re-release is the perfect way to celebrate the Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan and Rakhee-starrer’s 30th anniversary that is due in January 2025. Very few films since have been able to bring the two Khans together in the same frame. “Shah Rukh and Salman are still the biggest superstars. The film is talked about even today. There are memes of the dialogues, ‘Bhaag Arjun bhaag’, and ‘Mere Karan Arjun aayenge’,” says Roshan, proud of how the film has found a place in pop culture. One could attribute it to the film’s story that was gripping yet demanded suspension of disbelief—two brothers, essayed by Salman and Shah Rukh, are killed mercilessly by their menacing uncle and take birth again to seek revenge. Will the theme of reincarnation hold today? Roshan thinks so. “Even if I made this story today, people might have believed it because it’s a fairytale. Make what you think is not possible. The audience knows it’s not possible, but they get immersed in the storytelling.” He further reveals that Shah Rukh didn’t buy into the reincarnation plot. “Though he wasn’t convinced with the plot, he wanted to do it. After the film became a hit, he said, ‘I was absolutely wrong.’ Then, he also made Om Shanti Om [2007],” Roshan laughs. Rakesh Roshan The director made Karan Arjun with two up-and-coming stars, something that many filmmakers today believe is next to impossible. “Singham Again has five heroes,” Roshan cuts in. In fact, he has a simple mantra that he thinks would convince stars to headline a two-hero film. “If you want to make a two-hero film, you make it balanced. In Karan Arjun, I made sure both the characters had equal meat. I’ve been an actor. So, I knew that if I was offered a film where my role was even slightly weak, I wouldn’t do it.” So, if he made Karan Arjun today, who would he cast? The director admits that revisiting the movie won’t organically come to him at this stage. “If someone wants to revive the film, I’m up for it. There are many actors who will be magical on screen together. For Karan Arjun, Hrithik [Roshan] and Ranbir Kapoor would be my choices,” he grins.
18 November,2024 04:53 PM IST | Mumbai | Priyanka SharmaGive him a fascinating role, and director Prakash Jha will happily leave his place behind the camera and face it instead. An example is his latest short film, Amar Aaj Marega, which has been selected for the Indian Panorama section at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI). The Rajat K-directed venture will première at the festival in Goa on November 24. What prompted Jha to front the project? He points to the quirky story that revolves around a 62-year-old widower, who is convinced that he has lived his life to the fullest and plans to end it. “It’s a quirky movie. Amar has decided to end his life after a small celebration with a close friend [Saurabh Sachdeva]. When the friend learns of his plan, he gets scared and starts calling people home. Then they all sit and decide whether Amar should die or not, even discussing the method of his death,” says Jha. Acting is not new to the National Award-winning director, who featured in Saand Ki Aankh (2019) and Matto Ki Saikil (2022). To him, it’s a joy to bring another director’s vision to life. “When Rajat approached me, I thought it was a good concept. The film being screened at IFFI is good for him as he is a first-time filmmaker. I love encouraging debutant directors. First-time filmmakers are the best. Even in Matto Ki Saikil, debutant Mohammed Gani made a beautiful film.” Though busy with Aashram’s fourth season, Jha says he will always make time for acting. It comes with a simple condition—the role should enhance the story. “If I say yes to a role, it should be pivotal. Otherwise, I get approached for many parts, including cop roles. But I don’t need acting as a profession; I do it purely out of love. Directing and writing will go on,” he states.
18 November,2024 04:52 PM IST | Mumbai | Upala KBRVeteran filmmaker Rakesh Roshan will not be directing any more films. Yes, you heard it right! The veteran filmmaker has announced his retirement in a recent conversation. The producer confirmed that he will be backing the superhero film 'Krrish 4', starring actor and his son Hrithik Roshan. The film will be made under the banner of Filmkraft Productions, but he has decided to step down from directorial duties. Rakesh Roshan announces retirement from direction Rakesh Roshan, in an interview with 'Bollywood Hungama', opened up about his plans to give himself a rest by stepping down from directing films. He confirmed, “I don't think I'll be directing any further. But I'll surely be announcing 'Krrish 4' very soon.” Siddharth Anand to direct Krrish 4 Earlier this year, 'Fighter' director Siddharth Anand reposted a fan edit featuring Hrithik Roshan in and as 'Krrish' with the caption, “He's coming back,” on his X handle and wrote, “Yup, he is.” This led fans to wonder if, after directing Hrithik Roshan in 'Bang Bang', 'War', and 'Fighter', he will yet again take the director’s chair for Hrithik Roshan’s 'Krrish 4'. Well, Rakesh Roshan made 'Krrish' into a cult franchise, and taking over the already exciting film to deliver what the audience expects is not going to be easy for any director. About Rakesh Roshan’s journey Rakesh turned producer by launching his home banner, Filmkraft, in 1980. After initial hiccups, the production house delivered successful films like 'Kaamchor' and 'Shubh Kaamna'. The veteran took yet another plunge and became a director with 'Khudgarz' in 1987. As a director, he was known for massy dramas like 'Khoon Bhari Maang' (1988), 'Kishen Kanhaiya' (1990), 'Karan Arjun' (1995), and 'Koyla' (1997). He shifted his focus to direction from 1990 to 1999 and launched his son Hrithik Roshan with 'Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai' in 2000. He wrote, directed, and produced the cult classic. Rakesh enjoyed a fantastic career as a director. After the success of 'Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai', he directed Hrithik Roshan in the 2003 superhero film 'Koi... Mil Gaya', its sequel 'Krrish' (2006), and 'Krrish 3' (2013). It was a successful franchise. 'Krrish 4' is also in the making. Rakesh's last production was 'Kaabil' in 2017, headlined by his son Hrithik and Yami Gautam.
18 November,2024 04:47 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe recently released film 'The Sabarmati Report' sheds light on one of the most pivotal events in India's history that deeply shook the nation. Since its release, the film has been garnering widespread acclaim from audiences and critics alike. After the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, recognized and extended his support for the film's compelling narrative, other prominent political figures also praised the film for its hard-hitting storytelling. Now, the Union Home Minister Amit Shah also spoke about the film and shared his thoughts. Taking to his social media, Minister of Home Affairs of India Amit Shah, wrote - "No matter how hard a powerful ecosystem tries, it cannot keep the truth hidden in darkness forever. The film #SabarmatiReport defies the ecosystem with unparalleled courage and exposes the truth behind the fateful episode to broad daylight." No matter how hard a powerful ecosystem tries, it cannot keep the truth hidden in darkness forever.The film #SabarmatiReport defies the ecosystem with unparalleled courage and exposes the truth behind the fateful episode to broad daylight. https://t.co/AnVsuCSNwi — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) November 18, 2024 What PM Narendra Modi said about the film On Sunday, reacting to a post that described the Vikrant, Raashii Khanna and Ridhi Dogra-starrer as a must-watch, Modi wrote on X, “It is good that this truth is coming out, and that too in a way common people can see it. A fake narrative can persist only for a limited period of time. Eventually, the facts will always come out!” The Ektaa R Kapoor production sees Vikrant play a journalist, who investigates the 2002 Godhra train burning, in which 59 people were killed. The tragedy had led to riots in Gujarat. At the time, Modi was the state’s Chief Minister. In response to the Prime Minister’s post, Vikrant penned a note, thanking him for his encouragement. The Sabarmati Report box office performance With an abundance of love pouring in from across the nation, The Sabarmati Report sustained well over the weekend. The film opened with a gross collection of Rs 1.69 crore on Friday, followed by Rs 2.62 crore on Saturday (Day 2), and demonstrated its strong presence on Sunday (Day 3) by collecting Rs 3.74 crore gross. This marks an impressive 44% jump on Sunday. The film now stands at a total of Rs 8.05 crore gross for the weekend. Balaji Motion Pictures, a division of Balaji Telefilms Ltd presents, A Vikir Films Production, ‘The Sabarmati Report’ starring Vikrant Massey, Raashii Khanna, and Ridhi Dogra, directed by Dheeraj Sarna and produced by Shobha Kapoor, Ektaa R Kapoor, Amul V Mohan and Anshul Mohan, a worldwide wide release by Zee Studios. The film is now released in theatres.
18 November,2024 03:00 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentWhen two of Bollywood's top singers share a birthday, it calls for a double celebration. Neeti Mohan and Neha Bhasin, two of Bollywood's most talented singers, celebrate their birthdays on November 18. To mark the occasion, we decided to join the celebration by compiling a list of their best songs to elevate the party mood. Neha Bhasin’s top songs 'Jag Ghoomeya' Neha Bhasin has sung several songs for Salman Khan's films, and 'Jag Ghoomeya' is one of the finest. The song from 'Sultan' features Anushka Sharma and Salman Khan, and its beautiful lyrics paired with Neha's stunning voice make it one of her most loved tracks. She sang the female version of the song, for which Bhasin won several awards, including the Filmfare Award for Best Playback Singer (Female). 'Dhunki' From Anushka Sharma to Katrina Kaif, Neha has sung for many A-list Bollywood films. After singing 'Dhunki' for Katrina in 'Mere Brother Ki Dulhan', she gained immense popularity. Her bold voice and powerful lyrics created magic, perfectly suiting Katrina's character in the film. To this day, 'Dhunki' remains one of Bhasin's most-loved songs, often a must-play at celebrations. 'Chashni' Not just party-perfect tracks, but Neha has also lent her soulful voice to sweet melodies, with 'Chashni' being one of the best examples. Neha sang the reprise version of this track for the Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif starrer 'Bharat'. Her mesmerizing voice in the song evokes love and passion, making it another hit in her glorious career. Neeti Mohan’s top songs 'Tu Hai Toh' Another superstar singer in the industry who has delivered songs for every kind of playlist is Neeti Mohan. One of her recent renditions, 'Tu Hai Toh' from 'Mr. and Mrs. Mahi', is among the year's most popular songs. The romantic track quickly went viral on social media reels, dominating feeds within days. The song expresses passion and love, and Neeti's melodious voice makes every word of the lyrics believable. 'Aithey Aa' Searching for the perfect addition to a wedding playlist or a fun dance track? 'Aithey Aa' from the Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif starrer 'Bharat' is your ideal pick. The playful lyrics and flirtatious vibe make it a fun-filled track perfect for everyday playlists. Neeti's charm adds a lighthearted and joyous feel to the song. 'Jiya Re' Feeling low and need a mood lift? Listen to 'Jiya Re' from the Anushka Sharma and Shah Rukh Khan starrer 'Jab Tak Hai Jaan'. This fun, upbeat track subtly celebrates self-love. It makes you want to open your arms, dance your heart out, and embrace the freedom Neeti's voice so effortlessly conveys. These tracks by Neha Bhasin and Neeti Mohan are perfect examples of their versatility and talent, making every celebration extra special!
18 November,2024 01:20 PM IST | MumbaiKashmera Shah met with a freak accident recently. The actress who is married to comedian Krushna Abhishek was recently seen in the reality show Laughter Chefs with her husband. She took to her Instagram handle on Monday to inform that she narrowly escaped an accident that could have been fatal. Kashmera shared a picture of blood-soaked tissues kept inside a car. The amount of blood in the tissues left her friends and followers worried for her. Along with picture, Kashmera assured that she is fine. "Thank u god for saving me. Such a freak accident. Kuch bada hone wala tha… chote main nikal gaya. Hope there won’t be any scarring. Live every day one moment at a time. Can’t wait to come back. Really missing my family today @krushna30 #rayaanksharma #krishaangksharma," she wrote along with the picture. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kashmera Shah (@kashmera1) Her husband Krushna and their twins Rayaan and Krihaang are currently in Mumbai while Kashmera is in the USA. Krushna was not present with Kashmera at the time of the accident. But he took to the comment section to ensure that she is fine. Krushna also commented: "Thank god u safe now". Netizens worry about Kashmera The image sure left many scared for Kashmera's well being and questions poured in. Pooja Bhatt asked Kashmera if she was okay noow. "Oh Lord. What on earth happened Kash? Trust you are being taken care of?" Actor Rajesh Khattar, father of Ishaan Khatter, also commented on the post. "Oh My God … What hapnd Kash .. hope all good What. ????? Gosh pls come back soon," commented Deepshikha Nagpal . Earlier this month, Kashmera along with Krushna and their twins was holidaying in the USA. However, 10 days back, Krushna came back to Mumbai with the twins while Kashmera stayed back in the USA. While returning to Mumbai with the kids, Krushna took to his Instagram handle to share about their first flight without Kashmera, he wrote, "First time travelling with my boys without unki mummy @kashmera1 long long flight from LA to Mumbai sweethearts they are well behaved let’s see more will update u guys soon when I land love u chiku piku." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Krushna Abhishek (@krushna30)
18 November,2024 01:10 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAfter much anticipation, Kangana Ranaut’s political drama 'Emergency' has received censor clearance and is now scheduled for a theatrical release on 17th January 2025. The film, set during the turbulent Emergency period of the 1970s, promises to offer a gripping exploration of one of the most pivotal and most spoken about chapters in Indian democracy. Written, directed, and headlined by Kangana Ranaut, Emergency portrays the life and times of India’s first female Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi. Kangana’s portrayal of this complex character is one of the most ambitious undertakings of her career.Sharing the update with fans on social media, Kangana wrote, "17th January 2025 – The epic saga of the nation’s most powerful woman and the moment that altered India’s destiny. #Emergency – Unveils Only in cinemas on 17.01.2025! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kangana Ranaut (@kanganaranaut) ‘Emergency’ cleared with with 1-minute cut ‘Emergency’ was embroiled in a battle with CBFC over the non-issuance of the certificate for its release. It was caught up in controversy after Sikh organisations, including the Shiromani Akali Dal, accused it of misrepresenting the community and getting facts wrong. Ranaut had accused the film body of stalling certification to delay the release. Last month, the CBFC told the Bombay High Court on Monday that Ranaut had agreed to the cuts suggested by the board in the movie. The film was scheduled to hit theatres across the country on September 6 but couldn't keep its date as it didn't get a clearance certificate from the censor board, which is important for the public exhibition of films in India. The film’s certificate has surfaced on social media that from its previous run-time of 147 minutes it has been reduced to 146 minutes, which indicates that the cuts implemented account for just a minute in total. About Emergency The film features a powerful ensemble cast, including Anupam Kher, Mahima Chaudhary, Milind Soman, Shreyas Talpade, Vishak Nair, and the late Satish Kaushik. Each actor plays a pivotal role in bringing the nuanced political and personal dynamics of the era to the screen. Produced by Zee Studios, Manikarnika Films and Renu Pitti, Emergency boasts a musical score by Sanchit Balhara and G.V. Prakash Kumar, with dialogues and screenplay crafted by the acclaimed Ritesh Shah.
18 November,2024 11:51 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
