Amit Shah Mourns Demise of Veteran Singer Suman Kalyanpur, Says Indian Music Has Lost a Timeless Voice

New Delhi, June 1 (BNP): Union Home Minister Amit Shah paid heartfelt tribute to legendary playback singer Suman Kalyanpur following her demise, describing her passing as a major loss to India’s music fraternity and remembering her as a voice that touched millions across generations.

Expressing grief, Shah said the Indian music industry had lost one of its most melodious and graceful voices, whose timeless songs continue to occupy a special place in the hearts of listeners.

In his tribute, the Home Minister acknowledged Suman Kalyanpur’s immense contribution to Indian cinema and music, noting that her soulful renditions and unmatched vocal elegance enriched the country’s cultural heritage over several decades.

He also conveyed condolences to her family, admirers and members of the artistic community, saying her legacy would continue to inspire generations of singers and music lovers.

Suman Kalyanpur earned recognition as one of India’s most admired playback singers, lending her voice to numerous memorable songs in Hindi and regional cinema. Her distinct singing style and emotional depth won her enduring admiration among audiences and musicians alike.

Tributes from political leaders, film personalities and fans have continued to pour in following news of her passing, reflecting the profound influence she had on Indian music and popular culture.

Her demise marks the end of an era in Indian playback music, with admirers remembering her not only for her unforgettable melodies but also for the lasting emotional connection her voice created with audiences across the country.

Anushka Sharma Celebrates RCB’s IPL Triumph With Heartwarming Gesture for Virat Kohli

Ahmedabad, June 1 (BNP): Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) historic IPL 2026 title victory was marked by an emotional celebration off the field as actor Anushka Sharma shared a heartfelt moment with star batter Virat Kohli following the team’s triumph.

Anushka Sharma Celebrates RCB’s IPL Triumph With Heartwarming Gesture for Virat Kohli

Soon after RCB sealed their second consecutive Indian Premier League title with a victory over Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad, Anushka was seen celebrating alongside Kohli and the team members at the Narendra Modi Stadium. In a touching moment that quickly captured public attention, she congratulated Kohli with a sweet kiss on his forehead, reflecting pride and joy over the memorable achievement.

The candid celebration soon gained traction across social media platforms, with fans praising the couple’s emotional bond and expressing admiration for the heartfelt gesture following one of the biggest moments in Kohli’s cricketing career.

Kohli, who played a match-winning unbeaten knock of 75 in the final, emerged as one of the key architects of Bengaluru’s successful title defence. His composed innings helped RCB comfortably chase the target and secure another IPL crown.

The emotional exchange between Anushka and Kohli added a personal touch to RCB’s championship celebrations, with supporters widely sharing visuals of the moment and calling it one of the standout images from the IPL 2026 final.

RCB’s title-winning campaign, coupled with Kohli’s strong performance and the post-match celebration, ensured the night remained memorable both on and off the field.

From Rejection to Redemption: Annisha Garg’s Emotional Cannes 2026 Comeback

May 26: Annisha Garg made an emotional return to the red carpet at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, transforming a story of disappointment into one of resilience, determination and triumph.

From Rejection to Redemption: Annisha Garg’s Emotional Cannes 2026 Comeback

After facing rejection in 2025, Annisha returned to Cannes this year with renewed confidence, calling her appearance not a debut, but a comeback shaped by perseverance and belief. Her journey, marked by setbacks and self-reflection, became one of the festival’s inspiring personal narratives.

Her first red-carpet look featured the striking Nyxara Leopard Cut Out Dress by ITRH, a black-and-gold ensemble with bold cut-outs and a flowing cape that symbolised strength and renewal. According to Annisha, the colour palette represented her personal journey — black for the struggles she endured and gold for resilience and hope.

From Rejection to Redemption: Annisha Garg’s Emotional Cannes 2026 Comeback

Reflecting on the setback she faced last year, Annisha said she had nearly given up after her 2025 rejection, describing it as a moment that made her question whether she truly belonged. However, she chose to return stronger, seeing the experience as a test of patience and determination.

The emotional highlight of her Cannes appearance came with her second look — a white gown by designer Rimzim Dadu, adorned with pearls, floral detailing and delicate fringe. Set against the French coastline, the outfit carried special meaning as it represented a dream she had originally planned to wear in 2025 but was unable to realise.

Calling the gown deeply personal, Annisha described every pearl on the dress as symbolic of the prayers and struggles she carried during the months following her disappointment.

From Rejection to Redemption: Annisha Garg’s Emotional Cannes 2026 Comeback

For Annisha, Cannes 2026 became more than a fashion moment — it became a statement of resilience. She said her return was not about glamour alone, but about proving that setbacks do not define the future and that delayed dreams can still find their moment.

Her comeback story at Cannes stands as a reminder that rejection can become the beginning of a stronger return, turning adversity into inspiration.

Western Pop Artist Kat Velasco Releases “Shutting Down Midtown” Today, Continuing Build Toward Debut Album Cowgirl Complex

Kat Velasco continues building momentum ahead of her debut album Cowgirl Complex with her new single “Shutting Down Midtown,” out today on all major streaming platforms.

Credit Justin Hammond

LOS ANGELES, CA – May 22, 2026 – Western pop artist Kat Velasco releases her new single “Shutting Down Midtown,” out today on all major streaming platforms. The track is a vibrant, story-driven celebration of Nashville’s Midtown nightlife, offering a portrait of the city’s late-night culture beyond its renowned Broadway strip.

While Nashville is best known for its honky tonks on Broadway, “Shutting Down Midtown” turns its attention to another iconic pocket of the city, one defined by its mix of locals, visiting party crowds, and the artists who call it home.

Written alongside close friends and collaborators Johnny Gates and Joey Myron, the song brings Midtown’s nightlife to life with vivid detail and name checks to local staples including Losers and Red Door, positioning the track as both an anthem and an unofficial guide to a night out in Nashville.

“Nashville gets painted as this one thing but if you live here, you know it’s so much more than just Broadway… There are all these different corners of the city that feel like their own world and of course, Midtown is one of them. This song is about those nights, blended with all types of people… I think the majority of locals have been caught ‘Shutting Down Midtown’ if I had to guess,” Kat Velasco shares.

Kat Velasco’s music reflects a shift toward self-definition, shaped by stepping away from expectation to fully embrace her voice as an artist. After initially pursuing a more traditional career path, she ultimately committed to songwriting full-time, developing her sound in Nashville through collaboration and self-driven storytelling.

Now over half a million streams into her career with early support from Spotify and CMT, she is carving out a distinct lane in Western pop through her self-described “complex cowgirl” identity, rooted in Southern upbringing, shaped by Nashville, and defined by a modern, unfiltered perspective. That evolution leads into her debut era, anchored by her forthcoming album Cowgirl Complex and a series of releases expanding her narrative world.

Blending country storytelling with pop and rock influences, Velasco’s music is grounded in real-life experience and emotional honesty, earning early comparisons to Stevie Nicks and Maren Morris. Her recent releases, including “You’re Drunk” (2026), “I Should Quit Drinking” with Johnny Gates (2026), and “Show Pony” (2025), build a catalog defined by vulnerability, attitude, and sharp observational songwriting ahead of her debut album.

‘Dragon’ Glimpse Out: Jr NTR Unleashes Fierce Avatar in Prashanth Neel’s High-Octane Action Saga

Hyderabad, May 20 (BNP): The much-awaited first glimpse of Dragon, starring Jr NTR and directed by acclaimed filmmaker Prashanth Neel, has been unveiled, generating excitement among fans ahead of the actor’s birthday. The glimpse introduces a gritty, high-intensity world packed with action, conflict, and larger-than-life characters.

‘Dragon’ Glimpse Out: Jr NTR Unleashes Fierce Avatar in Prashanth Neel’s High-Octane Action Saga

Previously referred to as “NTRNeel,” the film officially revealed its title as Dragon through the newly released teaser, which presents Jr NTR in a fierce and ruthless avatar amid a dark landscape dominated by powerful adversaries and an underground opium trade backdrop.

The teaser also offers glimpses of a large ensemble cast, including Anil Kapoor in a key role, while showcasing the grand cinematic scale associated with Prashanth Neel, known for blockbuster films like KGF and Salaar. The film is expected to release in multiple languages and is slated for theatrical release in June 2027.

The glimpse has sparked widespread buzz across social media, with audiences praising Jr NTR’s intense screen presence and the film’s ambitious action-driven narrative.

Gati 2026: A Grand Celebration of Indian Classical Dance and Music in Siliguri

Gati

May 20 | Siliguri, West Bengal: Hakimpara NrityaMalancha Siliguri proudly announces the 42nd edition of GATI 2026, a prestigious Festival of Indian Classical Dance and Music, to be held from 5th to 7th June 2026 at Dinabandhu Mancha, Siliguri, from 5:30 PM onwards each evening.

Organised under the visionary guidance of Guru Vidushi Sangita Chaki, Founder of Hakimpara NrityaMalancha Siliguri, the festival has been celebrating the rich heritage of Indian classical arts for over four decades. Derived from the Sanskrit word meaning “movement” and “rhythm,” GATI embodies the spirit of India’s timeless artistic traditions while offering a vibrant cultural platform for artists, students, and connoisseurs of classical dance and music.

The three-day festival will feature an extraordinary line-up of renowned dancers, musicians, and guest artists from across India, presenting a diverse repertoire of Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, folk performances, instrumental recitals, vocal music, and thematic productions.

A special segment of Indian classical instrumental and vocal music will showcase performances by eminent artistes including:

  • Sitar: Pt. Sandeep Neogi
  • Sarod: Pt. Sunondo Mukherjee
  • Tabla: Pt. Subir Thakur, Pt. Subir Adhikari & Shri Riju Saha
  • Harmonium & Vocal: Pt. Sourav Chakraborty
  • Rahul Dev

Gati Festival 2026 | Day 1 | 5th June 2026

The inaugural evening will begin with traditional invocations including Ganesh Vandana, Maha Ganapati Shlokam, Pushpanjali, and Nagendra Haray Shiva Stotram, followed by classical dance presentations such as Jatiswaram and Tillana. The audience will also witness provincial folk dances representing different states of India.

The special guest performance of the evening will feature renowned Kathak artiste Shri Rahul Dev from Agartala.

Gati Festival 2026 | Day 2 | 6th June 2026

The second day will present an elaborate Kathak repertoire including Guru Charanam in Trital, Jhaptal Shudhonritya, Darbari Tarana, Ektal Shudhyonritya, Rupak Shudhyonritya, and Thumri. Folk dance performances from various Indian states will further enrich the cultural experience.

The evening’s guest artiste will be acclaimed Kathak exponent Shri Shuvojit Dutta from Kolkata.

Gati 2026

Gati Festival 2026 | Day 3 | 7th June 2026

The concluding day promises a grand culmination with performances including Kalyani Jathiswaram, Prabhumpranath Keertanam, Vasant Jathiswaram, and Niratata Shankara. Distinguished performances by eminent artistes include:

  • Kathak: Guru Sangita Chaki
  • Odissi: Smt. Pushpita Misra
  • Bharatanatyam: Guru Vidwan Praveen Kumar
  • Kathak: Guru Vidushi Gouri Diwakar

A special highlight of the evening will be “Ganga – A Musical Journey”, conceptualised and musically arranged by Shri Subrata De with choreography and dance direction by Vidushi Sangita Chaki.

The festival will conclude with a stirring presentation of “Vande Mataram”, featuring voice and script by Shri Anshuman Paul and Ms. Sanchita Bhattacharya, with dance direction by Guru Vidushi Sangita Chaki.

Hakimpara NrityaMalancha Siliguri warmly invites art lovers, students, cultural enthusiasts, and patrons of Indian classical traditions to witness this magnificent celebration of rhythm, grace, devotion, and artistic excellence.

RSVP: 9434006943
Vidushi Sangita Chaki
Founder, Hakimpara NrityaMalancha Siliguri

Media Partner: Shreyas Webmedia Solutions

 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Krishnavataram Witnesses Massive 92% Surge in 24 Hours, Emerging as a Nationwide Cultural Movement

Krishnavataram Witnesses Massive 92% Surge in 24 Hours, Emerging as a Nationwide Cultural Movement

 

 

May 19:A remarkable wave is sweeping across cinemas worldwide as Krishnavataram records an extraordinary 92% jump in the last 24 hours, turning the film into far more than just a box office success, it is now becoming a full-fledged cultural and spiritual movement.

What began as a film has transformed into an emotional experience that audiences are celebrating with unmatched devotion. Across cities, towns, and even overseas markets, theatres are turning into temples as devotees chant Krishna bhajans, pray together, cry during emotional scenes, dance in celebration, and collectively immerse themselves in Bhagwan Krishna’s story on the big screen.

Families are returning to cinemas repeatedly with friends, children, and elders, making Krishnavataram a shared spiritual experience across generations. Social media is flooded with emotional testimonials, celebration videos, and requests demanding exhibitors increase screens and add more shows. Audiences from Canada, France, Dubai, and several international markets are passionately writing in asking for the film to release in more locations and languages.

The movement’s scale is reflected not just in occupancy numbers but in the emotional connection audiences are forming with the film. Viewers across India are calling it “not just a movie, but a journey of love and devotion,” while theatres across regions continue to witness packed houses and euphoric audience reactions.

What makes this phenomenon truly extraordinary is its universal acceptance across regions and languages. While Hindi audiences have embraced the film wholeheartedly, the Telugu and Tamil versions are also witnessing packed theatres and overwhelming appreciation across the South. From Hyderabad to Chennai and Bengaluru, audiences are celebrating Krishnavataram as a landmark cinematic and spiritual event rooted deeply in Indian culture and faith.

The movement has also received blessings and support from some of the country’s most respected spiritual and cultural voices. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath declared the film tax-free in the state, acknowledging its spiritual and cultural significance. Revered spiritual leaders including Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Gaur Gopal Das, respected Shankaracharyas, Swami Premanand Puri Ji, Mahamandaleshwar Swami Kailashanand Giri Ji, and Premanand Maharaj Ji have also praised and blessed the film, encouraging devotees and families to experience its uplifting message.

At a time when cinema is dominated by spectacle and franchises, Krishnavataram has achieved something incredibly rare: it has united audiences emotionally and spiritually. It is reigniting devotion, bringing generations together, and creating a shared cultural moment that people carry in their hearts long after they leave the theatre.

Krishnavataram is no longer just a film. It is becoming a people’s movement powered by faith, emotion, and the timeless love for Bhagwan Krishna.
#krishnavataram

Hakimpara NrityaMalancha Siliguri Announces ‘GATI 2026’ – A Three-Day Festival of Indian Classical Dance and Music

Gati

May 18 | Siliguri, West Bengal: Hakimpara NrityaMalancha Siliguri is all set to present “GATI 2026”, its prestigious annual Festival of Indian Classical Dance and Music, from 5th to 7th June 2026 at Dinabandhu Mancha, Siliguri, beginning daily from 5:30 PM onwards.

Organised under the guidance of renowned Guru and Founder Vidushi Sangita Chaki, the festival has been celebrating India’s rich cultural heritage for the past 42 years, making it one of the region’s most respected platforms for Indian classical performing arts.

Derived from the Sanskrit word meaning movement and rhythm, GATI embodies the spirit of Indian classical traditions through an immersive showcase of dance, music, and folk artistry. The three-day cultural celebration will feature acclaimed artists, distinguished musicians, and vibrant performances representing diverse classical forms from across India.

The festival will also host a special evening dedicated to Indian classical instrumental and vocal music featuring celebrated maestros:

  • Sitar: Pt. Sandeep Neogi
  • Sarod: Pt. Sunondo Mukherjee
  • Tabla: Pt. Subir Thakur, Pt. Subir Adhikari & Shri Riju Saha
  • Harmonium & Vocal: Pt. Sourav Chakraborty

GATI Festival 2026 – Day Wise Highlights

Rahul Dev

5th June 2026 | Day 1

The inaugural evening will begin with devotional and classical presentations including:

  • Ganesh Vandana
  • Guest Felicitation
  • Maha Ganapati Shlokam
  • Pushpanjali
  • Nagendra Haray Shiva Stotram
  • Ananda Nartana Ganapati Kirtanam
  • Jatiswaram
  • Tillana
  • Provincial Folk Dances from Different States

Guest Artist: Shri Rahul Dev (Kathak, Agartala)

6th June 2026 | Day 2

The second day will feature an elaborate Kathak repertoire and traditional rhythmic compositions including:

  • Shiva Vandana
  • Felicitation Ceremony
  • Guru Charanam in Trital
  • Trital Sidhya Nritya
  • Jhaptal Sudha Nritya
  • Darbari Tarana
  • Ektal Shudhyo Nritya
  • Rupak Sudhyo Nritya
  • Chautal Sudha Nritya
  • Trital Sudhya Nritya
  • Thumri
  • Provincial Folk Dances from Different States

Guest Artist: Shri Shuvojit Dutta (Kathak, Kolkata)

Gati 2026

Gati 2026 Festival | 7th June | Day 3

1. Vandana
2. Felicitation
3. Anandanartana Ganapati kirtanam
4. Pushpanjali
5. Kalyani Jathiswaram
6. Prabhumpranath Keertanam
7. Jhaptal sudhya nritya 
8. Vasant Jathiswaram 
9. Kathak in Dhamar sangita chaki 
10. Odissi guest performance smt pushpita misra
11. Niratata shankara.
12. Tandav and lasya in Dhamar and rupak 
13. Bharatnatyam – Guru Vidwan Praveen Kumar 
14. Gajal 
15. Layadisha
16. Kathak -Guru Vidushi Gouri Diwakar Delhi 
17.Ganga a musical journey concept and music arranger  Shri Subrata De and Dance director Vidushi Sangita Chaki 
18. Vande Mataram – Voice & Script written by Shri Anshuman Paul and Sanchita Bhattacharya Dance Director Gurur Vidushi Sangita Chaki

RSVP

Vidushi Sangita Chaki
Founder, NrityaMalancha Siliguri
Contact: 9434006943

NrityaMalancha Siliguri

Media Partner: Shreyas Webmedia Solutions

Hindi ZEE5 unveils the chilling trailer of ‘Hathras – 16 Days’, a compelling investigative docu-series which is streaming now on Hindi ZEE5

National, 16th May 2026: Hindi ZEE5 has unveiled the trailer of its upcoming original investigative docu-series Hathras – 16 Days, a searing exploration of one of India’s most disturbing and debated rape cases that shook the conscience of the nation. Directed by filmmaker Patrick Graham, the series follows the haunting 16-day journey after the 2020 Hathras incident, uncovering the intersections of caste, gender, institutional silence, and the relentless pursuit of truth. Through the eyes of journalist Tanushree Pandey, Hathras – 16 Days pieces together the uncomfortable realities that unfolded behind the assault of a young Dalit woman in Hathras. The series is streaming now exclusively on Hindi ZEE5.

Hindi ZEE5 unveils the chilling trailer of ‘Hathras – 16 Days’, a compelling investigative docu-series which is streaming now on Hindi ZEE5

 

Key Details:

Title: Hathras – 16 Days

Platform: Hindi ZEE5

Language: Hindi

Genre: Investigative Docu-Series / True Crime Documentary

Setting: Rural Uttar Pradesh

Premiere: 15th May 2026

Director: Patrick Graham

Production: A Docubay Original  

Trailer Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zx8Bbh2U0sc

The trailer offers a chilling glimpse into the events that followed the assault of a young Dalit woman in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, and the nationwide outrage that ensued. What begins as a brutal crime quickly spirals into a larger examination of caste hierarchy, political power, media manipulation, and the systems that often work to suppress truth. At the heart of the narrative is journalist Tanushree Pandey’s courageous investigation, as she battles institutional roadblocks, intimidation, and public scrutiny to bring the story to national attention. Layered with first-hand testimonies, on-ground reporting, archival footage, and perspectives from journalists, activists, law enforcement officials, and policymakers, Hathras – 16 Days goes beyond retelling a tragedy, it investigates the machinery that shaped its aftermath.

Official Statements:

Kaveri Das, Business Head – Hindi ZEE5 and Chief Channel Officer – &TV, said:

“At Hindi ZEE5, we remain committed to telling stories that matter, stories that not only engage audiences, but also compel them to reflect on the realities around them. Hathras – 16 Days is not merely a recounting of a headline-making incident; it is an exploration of the existing systems and prejudices that continue to plague our society and the institutional silence. Through this docu-series, we aim to present a narrative that is both courageous and thought-provoking, while staying rooted in empathy and truth.”

Patrick Graham, Director, said:

“Hathras – 16 Days was obviously more than just another true-crime documentary. For me, it was about examining the larger forces that operate behind such incidents – the layers of caste, gender, authority, and narrative control that often determine whose truth gets heard. What drew me most was the extraordinary courage of the journalists who refused to let the story disappear, especially Tanushree Pandey, whose pursuit of answers became the emotional spine of this documentary. This is ultimately a story about voices that are too often ignored because of their position on ancient hierarchies that continue to exist in certain pockets in the society”.

Hathras – 16 Days is streaming now exclusively on Hindi ZEE5

  

Siliguri Welcomes ‘GATI 2026’ – A Cultural Celebration of Indian Classical Arts

Festival to be Followed by a 2-Day Bharatanatyam Workshop

Siliguri, May 12: Hakimpara Nritya Mancha is set to present ‘GATI 2026’, its annual Indian Classical Dance and Music Festival, from 5th to 7th June 2026 at Dinabandhu Mancha, Siliguri. Beginning daily from 5:30 PM onwards, the three-day cultural celebration will bring together renowned classical dancers and musicians from across India for an immersive showcase of India’s rich artistic traditions.

Derived from the Sanskrit word meaning “movement” and “rhythm,” GATI celebrates the spirit of Indian classical heritage while creating a vibrant cultural platform for audiences, students, and art enthusiasts in Siliguri.

Festival Schedule & Featured Artists

Gati 2026 1

Day 1 – 5th June 2026

An evening dedicated to Indian classical dance performances featuring:

• Bharatanatyam by Subhajit Dutta – Kolkata-based exponent of the Pandanallur style
• Kathak by Rahul Dev – Acclaimed Kathak artist from Agartala

Gate 2026 2

Day 2 – 6th June 2026

A special evening of Indian classical instrumental and vocal music featuring:

• Sitar – Sri Sandeep Neogi
• Sarod – Sri Sunondo Mukherjee
• Tabla – Subir Thakur, Subir Adhikari & Riju Saha
• Harmonium & Vocal – Sourav Chakraborty

Gati 2026 3

Day 3 – 7th June 2026

A grand finale showcasing three major Indian classical dance traditions:

• Bharatanatyam by Vidwan P. Praveen Kumar
• Kathak by Vidushi Gauri Diwakar
• Odissi by Vidushi Puspita Mishra

 

Bharatanatyam Workshop

Following the festival, Hakimpara Nritya Mancha will also host a 2-day Bharatanatyam Workshop on 8th and 9th June 2026 at Dinabandhu Mancha, Siliguri. The workshop is designed for students and dance enthusiasts seeking deeper exposure to the techniques and nuances of Bharatanatyam.

Event Details

Event Date Time Venue
GATI 2026 Festival 5th – 7th June 2026 5:30 PM onwards Dinabandhu Mancha, Siliguri
Bharatanatyam Workshop 8th – 9th June 2026 To Be Announced Dinabandhu Mancha, Siliguri

Media Partner: Shreyas Webmedia Solutions
Website: nrityamalancha.com
RSVP / Contact: Nritya Malancha – 9434006943

Hakimpara Nritya Mancha warmly invites art lovers, students, and patrons of Indian classical culture to witness this celebration of rhythm, grace, music, and tradition.