“Our onscreen connection proves that great chemistry has no age boundaries”: Ashi Singh reacts to the near 20-year age-gap with Shabir Ahluwalia in Sony SAB’s ‘Ufff Yeh Love Hai Mushkil’

Mumbai, 4 June 2025: At the heart of Sony SAB’s Ufff…Yeh Love Hai Mushkil is a fresh story that puts the spotlight on an unexpected pairing, Ashi Singh as Kairi Sharma and Shabir Ahluwalia as Yug Sinha. The duo share a nearly 20-year age gap but rather than hiding or glossing over this difference, the show, set to premiere on 9 th June, 8 PM, boldly embraces it, making it a central element of the narrative, paving the way for a story that feels real, layered, and refreshingly different.

What makes this casting choice so powerful is how naturally their chemistry unfolds. Their characters, Yug and Kairi, aren’t written to fit a conventional mold and their relationship is filled with contradictions, complexities, and vulnerability. That’s exactly what will make viewers connect deeply with them.

Off-screen, it’s their mutual respect and comfort that translates into the believable, effortless bond that will be seen on screen. Despite the generational gap, Ashi and Shabir are perfectly in sync, proving that genuine connection has nothing to do with age, and everything to do with honesty in performance.

Ashi Singh playing the role of Kairi Sharma said, “Shabir and my onscreen connection proves that great chemistry has no age boundaries. I’ve grown up watching him on television; he’s someone I’ve admired not just for his body of work, but for the way he brings depth and dignity to every character. To now share screen space with him, and to be cast opposite him as the lead, feels surreal. It’s not something I ever imagined would happen so He’s incredibly warm and grounded, which makes working with him so comfortable and inspiring. For any young actor entering the world of television, getting this kind of experience is a huge blessing.

 Tune in to watch Ufff…Yeh Love Hai Mushkil premiering on 9 th June, Monday to Saturday at 8 PM on Sony SAB

Actors share the joy and benefits of cycling this World Bicycle Day!

On World Bicycle Day, &TV actors take a nostalgic ride down memory lane and share how cycling is more than just a way to stay fit. It’s a hobby, a passion, and a meaningful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether it’s childhood memories, freedom, creativity, or mental clarity, these actors remind us that cycling adds value in more ways than one. These include Vikram Diwedi (Vishambhar Singh, Bheema), Aaryan Prajapati (Hrithik Singh, Happu Ki Ultan Paltan) and Aasif Sheikh (Vibhuti Mishra, Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai). Vikram Diwedi aka Vishambhar Singh from Bheema shares, “Cycling is my retreat. As an actor, I constantly need to be in a creative space, and there is something about early morning cycling that refreshes my mind and sparks new ideas. It’s not just a workout, but it’s my thinking zone. I ride for 30-40 minutes, 4 to 5 times a week, and those moments help me disconnect from screens and reconnect with nature. The rhythm of pedalling, the breeze, and the open roads are therapeutic. Plus, it’s a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. A small habit with a big impact.”

Aaryan Prajapati aka Hrithik Singh from Happu Ki Ultan Paltan) shares, “There is nothing that makes me happier than riding my cycle. I feel free like I can go anywhere! After school or shoots, I hop on my bicycle and ride around the park or my neighbourhood. It’s fun, it clears my mind and feel alive! I still remember learning to ride at six, and it was tough, but once I got it, I couldn’t stop. I think everyone, no matter how young or old, should try cycling. It’s the most fun way to stay active and explore the world around you.” Aasif Sheikh aka Vibhuti Narayan Mishra from Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai adds, “Cycling is my go-to way to stay active and clear my thoughts. It’s more than just a workout. I often ride a bicycle on set whenever there’s time between shots. It’s a personal escape that helps me reset mentally and emotionally. When I am cycling, I feel completely present, soaking in the sights, sounds, and fresh air around me. It is a chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature in a way we often forget in our daily rush. On World Bicycle Day, I encourage everyone to pick up this simple yet powerful habit. It’s a small step toward a healthier you and a greener, more mindful planet.”

Watch Bheema at 8:30 PM, Happu Ki Ultan Paltan at 10:00 PM, and Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai at 10:30 PM, every Monday to Friday only on &TV!

Friendship, ambition, and life’s realities collide in Amazon MX Player’s upcoming series Lafangey – Trailer out now!

Mumbai, 2nd June 2025: Amazon MX Player, Amazon’s free video streaming service, today announced its upcoming coming-of-age drama, Lafangey. The streaming service unveiled a riveting trailer for the series, offering a glimpse into the lives of three childhood friends as they navigate the trials of adulthood while chasing dreams, facing dilemmas, and overcoming unexpected challenges. Directed by Prem Mistry and written by Abhishhek Yadav (who are also producers of the show), Lafangey boasts of a talented cast, including Anud Singh Dhaka, Gagan Arora, Harsh Beniwal, Barkha Singh, and Salonnay Gaur in pivotal roles. The slice of life drama will be available to stream – for free – exclusively on Amazon MX Player from 6th June.

The emotionally charged trailer transports viewers to the bustling streets of Noida, following Chaitanya, Rohan, and Kamlesh as they grapple with career woes, romantic upheavals, and familial and societal expectations. Chaitanya faces a moral dilemma, finding himself torn between his ambitions and his family’s expectations, while Rohan’s love life is tested by financial insecurities. Meanwhile, Kamlesh dreams of stardom but his reality is weighed down by conventional responsibilities. Through moments of chaos, laughter, and heartache, Lafangey captures the uncertainty and beauty of pursuing one’s aspirations while holding onto friendship.

Speaking about the seriesAmogh Dusad, Head of Content, Amazon MX Playerexpressed, “With Lafangey, we’re exploring the messy yet beautiful journey of adulthood through the lens of friendship and personal struggles. It’s a story grounded in reality, where every character is on a quest to figure out who they are and what they want. We’re thrilled to bring this authentic, fun, and heartwarming tale to our viewers, and we believe it will strike a chord with everyone who’s ever faced the challenges of balancing dreams with the realities of life.”

 “Lafangey is about everyone who dreams,” says Director, Prem Mistry. “Set against the backdrop of unemployment, it puts a spotlight on the youth of this country those who dare to do something unconventional while navigating the everyday struggles of middle-class life. It’s about testing your faith with destiny. With every project, we’ve tried building this genre for the young adults and with Lafangey, it finally feels like the audience is embracing it.”

Sharing insights about his character, Rohan, in the series, Gagan Arora said, “Rohan is someone who finds himself stuck in the middle of love, ambition, and life’s unpredictability. His story isn’t just about career choices, it’s about balancing who he is with the expectations others place on him. Playing such a layered character was an enriching experience, and I’m excited for viewers to see how Rohan evolves through the series, all while navigating the complexities of love and self-growth.”

Harsh Beniwal, who essays the role of Kamlesh, said, “Kamlesh is a dreamer – one who believes in chasing stars, no matter how far out of reach they seem. It was a pleasure to bring this character to life. He’s funny, and carefree. Yet, his journey is about finding the strength to embrace who he truly is, even when life tries to knock him down. I feel people will relate to his carefree spirit and the reality check that often comes with pursuing one’s dreams.”

Barkha Singh, who portrays the character of Ishita, shared, “Ishita is a modern woman with big dreams and a strong sense of individuality. Her relationship with Rohan goes through several ups and downs, and in many ways, it’s a mirror for everyone who’s had to balance love with personal aspirations. It’s been an exciting role to play, and I think Ishita will connect with viewers who know what it’s like to juggle their career ambitions with emotional decisions.”

Kabir Bedi Opens Up About Parveen Babi, Marriage, Siddharth’s Loss, and Personal Turmoil on In The Ring With Filmfare

Few actors from India have navigated the global stage with the ease and elegance of Kabir Bedi. From Sandokan in Italy to the 1983 James Bond film, Octopussy, in the West and powerful performances in Bollywood classics like Khoon Bhari Maang and Taj Mahal: An Eternal Love Story, his screen presence has transcended borders and decades, making him one of Indian cinema’s most enduring icons. In the latest episode of In The Ring with Filmfare, now streaming on Filmfare’s YouTube channel, Kabir Bedi joins Jitesh Pillai, Editor-in-Chief, Filmfare, for what is perhaps his boldest and most introspective conversation yet. In this emotionally charged exchange, he reflects on the peaks of international success, the heartbreaks that shaped him, and the memories etched across his personal and professional journey.

In the course of the interview, Kabir Bedi speaks candidly about his complex relationship with Parveen Babi, her mental health struggles, and the moment jealousy sparked between her and Italian actress Gina Lollobrigida. He also opens up about the grief of losing his son Siddharth, the turbulence of an open marriage with Protima Bedi, and his evolving bond with daughter Pooja Bedi. Bedi further shares fascinating stories from his memoir, Stories I Must Tell, including working with legends like Rekha, Vinod Khanna, and Zeenat Aman, and his spiritual alignment with Osho’s philosophy. With refreshing honesty, the veteran actor revisits the many chapters of a life lived without filters during this no-holds-barred conversation.

Talking about Parveen Babi’s struggles, he revealed, “Parveen never accepted her mental illness. She was far away from India. Her career was at its peak at that time, and that is the reason she never accepted her problem. She was scared of what it might do to her stardom. During Amar Akbar Anthony, when Mahesh Bhatt was with her, he got to see it up close.”

Reflecting on his past relationships, he admitted, “There were times when I was indiscriminate in my choice of women. But if I am being equally honest, if I look at my significant relationships, none of them were one-night stands. I won’t pretend to have empowered anyone, but I’ve always believed in taking responsibility for the choices I made.”

On his spiritual outlook, he shared, “Vinod Khanna introduced me to Osho, and his philosophy really resonated with me. I’ve always disliked the idea that you have to wear white robes to follow his ideology. But it is not like that. I have immense respect for Osho.”

Recalling his experience working with legendary actresses, he said, “Each collaboration was unique. Rekha, Dimple Kapadia, Zeenat Aman, Parveen Babi – all powerful women in their own right. Khoon Bhari Maang with Rekha was especially memorable. I agreed to the film over a phone call with Rakesh Roshan when I was shooting for Magnum PI in Hawaii.”

Speaking of his family, he expressed, “Protima and I were blessed with two kids, Pooja Bedi and Siddharth Bedi. With Pooja, we’ve had our share of ups and downs, some painful misunderstandings and miscommunications. But I believe she’s found her voice, her place, and I respect that.”

A new chapter begins: Pushpa solidifies her resolve to study law in Sony SAB’s ‘Pushpa Impossible’

Mumbai, May 30, 2025: Sony SAB’s Pushpa Impossible continues to resonate with audiences through its heartfelt and relevant storytelling. The show now enters a powerful and inspiring phase as Pushpa (Karuna Pandey) finds herself at a life-altering crossroads—one that propels her towards a new dream of studying law. Amidst this turning point, the entry of Professor Rajveer ( Gaurav Chopra) adds a dramatic twist to her journey, bringing new challenges and unexpected emotional depth.

In the upcoming episodes, Pushpa’s determined attempt to help retired peon Ghanshyam (Mukul Srivastava) hits a setback when her unconventional plan backfires, leading to Dilip’s (Jayesh More) and Bapodara’s (Jayesh Bharbhaya) arrest. Though Ghanshyam eventually gets his pension, Pushpa faces unexpected accusations from Kadambari (Brinda Trivedi), who feels threatened by her growing bond with Jugal (Anshul Trivedi) and quietly plots against Chirag (Darshan Gurjar) . Amidst this emotional chaos, Professor Rajveer Shastri’s harsh statement that “law is for the powerful” leaves Pushpa shaken. Their clash intensifies during a college debate where Pushpa’s practical wisdom is dismissed, but a student’s support reveals cracks in Shastri’s stoic facade. When she joins a mock jury, Pushpa realizes the case echoes Shastri’s hidden personal pain. Moved by this emotional revelation and Ghanshyam’s struggle, Pushpa takes a bold new step—she decides to study law, marking the beginning of a transformative chapter in her journey.

Karuna Pandey, who essays the role of Pushpa, shared, “This has been one of the most powerful and emotional moments in Pushpa’s journey so far. Her decision to study law isn’t just a personal milestone—it’s a message to every woman out there who thinks it’s too late to start over. Pushpa has always led with her heart, her instinct, and her resilience, but now she’s choosing to empower herself with knowledge and legal understanding. As an actor, portraying this shift has been incredibly fulfilling. I truly believe that whether you’re 25 or 50, it’s never too late for a fresh start.”

Rising Star Keshav Tyohar Signs with Saregama, Reimagines the Iconic “Yeh Shaam”

Independent pop artist Keshav Tyohar, 24, has officially signed with India’s iconic music label Saregama, marking a significant new chapter in his artistic journey. As part of this collaboration, Keshav unveils his reinterpretation of Yeh Shaam Mastani — a bold and deeply personal tribute to the timeless classic.
Known for his ability to seamlessly blend pop, electronic, and Hindustani classical influences, Keshav brings a raw, introspective energy to this version of Yeh Shaam. Far from a traditional recreation, the track offers a stripped-back, contemporary reimagining that feels emotionally resonant and refreshingly unexpected — introducing a beloved melody to a whole new generation.
Keshav first rose to prominence as the first runner-up of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Li’l Champs Season 5 in 2015, captivating audiences across India at just 13 years old. Over the past decade, he has built a loyal following as an independent artist, known for writing, producing, and performing music that reflects his distinct sonic identity.
Speaking about the release, Keshav shares: “Yeh Shaam Mastani has always been one of my favourite songs — timeless and deeply nostalgic. I grew up listening to it with my parents, but I didn’t want to simply cover it. I wanted to weave it into my own story. The idea came to me during a golden-hour evening with the original playing in the background. There was this silent spark with someone across the room — a glance, a smile, that unspoken tension. It was cinematic, fleeting, and electric. That’s what Yeh Shaam means to me — a moment suspended in time. Working with a legacy brand like Saregama is a huge step forward. I’m excited to take this music to new audiences and grow from here”
Siddharth Anand Kumar, Senior Vice President at Saregama, added: “Keshav represents the best of today’s new wave of Indian independent artists — rooted in tradition, yet completely in tune with contemporary expression. We’re excited to support his artistic vision and welcome him to the Saregama family.”
The track has already struck a chord online, amassing over 100,000 views within days of its release, with fans praising its honest, refreshing take on the R.D. Burman classic. With this release, Keshav Tyohar continues to cement his place as one of the most exciting young voices redefining the sound of modern Indian music.

Who will enter the finale? Get ready for the ultimate showdown on Amazon MX Player’s Realme Hip Hop India S2

MUMBAI, India–May 29, 2025: The countdown to the finale has officially begun! This week on Realme Hip Hop India Season 2, it’s all or nothing as the most crucial battle will decide, who clinches the last coveted spot in the grand finale. Streaming on Amazon MX Player, Amazon’s free video streaming service, the upcoming episode will witness a game-changing showdown judged by Remo D’Souza and Malaika Arora, with special guest judge Munawar Faruqui adding his unique perspective to the high-voltage face-offs.

With four contestants left and only one spot, this is not just another episode, it is the last battle before the finale. In an electrifying twist, the contestants themselves will choose who they want to go head-to-head with, making every decision a bold strategy and every move a make-or-break moment. As emotions run high and rivalries come to a boil, only one dancer will rise from this do-or-die showdown to earn a place in the finale. The others? Their journey ends here.

Get ready for raw energy, intense face-offs, and a whole lot of drama and emotions. Who will conquer? Who will fall? Don’t miss the last battle before the finale of Realme Hip Hop India S2. New episodes drop every Thursday, only on Amazon MX Player, accessible on the Amazon Shopping App, Prime Video, Fire TV, and Connected TVs.

He’s wary and guarded, she’s all heart… Together, Shabir Ahluwalia and Ashi Singh make you go Ufff… Yeh Love Hai Mushkil, premiering on Sony SAB

Mumbai, 29 May 2025: Sony SAB, known for its unique blend of light-hearted and family-oriented entertainment, is all set to captivate audiences with its latest rom-com family drama, Ufff… Yeh Love Hai Mushkil. The show is a refreshing addition to Sony SAB’s programming slate and features two contrasting characters Yug Sinha (Shabir Ahluwalia) and Kairi Sharma (Ashi Singh), from completely different worlds who are brought together by a complicated situation.

The show sees much-loved Indian actor Shabir Ahluwalia stepping away from his traditional ‘adarsh’ roles to explore the layered and woman loather Yug, a man whose vulnerability lies beneath his stoic surface. Meanwhile, Ashi Singh, known for her performances on Indian television, brings warmth and effervescence as Kairi, a girl who wears her heart on her sleeve and faces life with wide-eyed optimism.

The story follows the charming tale of Yug Sinha, a highly regarded lawyer with a brilliant mind and a tightly locked heart, and Kairi Sharma, an ambitious young girl who believes in dreams, destiny, and the power of love. While Yug carries the weight of past scars and chooses caution over connection, Kairi bursts into his world with idealism and unshakable positivity. Yug and Kairi are joined by their siblings who bring chaos in abundance. Can two polar opposite people overcome their differences and discover something truly meaningful?

Comments

Nimisha Pandey, Programming Head, Sony SAB

“Ufff Yeh Love Hai Mushkil is a refreshing rom com in a world of melodramatic love sagas. It is a family drama set in an unlike family. With Ufff… Yeh Love Hai Mushkil we are redefining what family means. This show is a rare combination of fun, romance and family drama, making it a perfect fit for Sony SAB audiences. We are thrilled to partner with Sonali Jaffer and actors like Shabir Ahluwalia, Ashi Singh and Supriya Shukla to bring this entertaining story alive. At Sony SAB we stay committed to provide entertainment that caters to the entire family and be home to exceptional talent.”

Sonali Jaffer, Full House Media

“As creators, our goal has always been to craft stories that reflect the world we live in – its contradictions, its charm, and its challenges. With Ufff… Yeh Love Hai Mushkil, we wanted to present a love story that doesn’t follow the conventional fairytale route. Instead, it mirrors the kind of relationships many people experience today, with clashing viewpoints, and yet, an undeniable pull. The show brings together two individuals, Yug and Kairi, who represent two ends of the spectrum, one ruled by logic and guardedness, the other driven by dreams and the belief in love.”

Shabir Ahluwalia playing the role of Yug Sinha

“What intrigued me about Yug is the subtlety with which he feels things but refuses to show it, and the complexity of a character who is respected in his professional world yet conflicted in his personal life. Playing Yug Sinha in Ufff… Yeh Love Hai Mushkil is one of the most refreshing and challenging roles of my career. Yug is a man who has built walls around himself, someone who leads with logic and has carefully distanced himself from anything that might shake his foundation especially love. What makes this show special is that it doesn’t follow the usual template of a love story.”

Ashi Singh playing the role of Kairi Sharma

“Kairi is full of life, hope, and conviction — she’s someone who truly believes in love, in purpose, and in creating her own path. What drew me to her character is that she’s not afraid to be vulnerable, yet she’s incredibly strong in her beliefs. She’s the kind of person who walks into a room and lights it up but also has the depth to navigate the most difficult situations with grace. Working with Shabir has been amazing; he brings so much nuance and restraint to his performance, and that contrast plays out beautifully onscreen.”

Premiering 9th June, the show will air on Sony SAB, Monday to Saturday at 8:00 PM, promising viewers a compelling mix of fun, love, and life’s everyday chaos.

MAAC Leads India’s Creative AI Revolution with Mega Student Training Drive

NEW DELHI, 28th May 2025: MAAC, a premier institute and a pioneer in high-end 3D animation, VFX training, gaming, and multimedia and a training brand of Aptech Limited, has launched a landmark five-day training initiative on Digital Content Creation using Gen AI design tools at the Sri Satya Sai Auditorium, New Delhi. This timely program responds to the ongoing technological disruption in the Media and Entertainment Industry, driven by the rapid rise of Generative AI.

With a legacy spanning 25 years and a network of over 120+ centres across India, MAAC is pioneering the integration of AI in creative education through this large-scale masterclass. The initiative has trained over 500 students in the use of prominent Gen AI tools, including ChatGPT, Midjourney, Adobe Firefly, Gemini, and Kling AI, among others.

This initiative is a significant step toward empowering the next generation of designers and storytellers,” said Sandip Weling, Chief Business Officer, Global Retail Business, Aptech Limited and Brand Custodian, MAAC. He added, “At MAAC, we are committed to equipping our students with future-ready skills that blend creativity with cutting-edge AI technologies. With the pace at which Gen AI is evolving, it’s essential to not just adapt, but lead the change.

Mr. Deepak Choudhary, Director, MAAC South ex, Delhi, quoted, “At MAAC, we believe the future belongs to creators who learn to work with AI. We are preparing our students to lead the AI revolution in digital content creation. With studies projecting that over 70% of media and entertainment content will be influenced by AI by 2030, it’s clear that the creative industry is undergoing a massive transformation. From Netflix using AI to optimize content recommendations and script development, to Marvel Studios employing AI for visual effects and pre-visualization, the integration of generative tools is already reshaping how stories are told. Our initiative ensures that India’s creative youth are not just prepared—but positioned to innovate at the forefront of this change.”

Ten expert trainers conducted comprehensive sessions over the five-day program, covering fundamentals to advanced levels of AI design tools. The training features prominent Instagram AI creators such as Luv Sankhla, Deenu Khan (neuraltech.ai), Rahul Tiwary, and Divyansh Mundra (Mahabharat With Divyansh), along with leading industry experts including Ms. Vidushi Saxena from Adobe India and Mr. Vijay Shah, Director of Design at Physics Wallah. Master mentors from MAAC HQ in Mumbai were also part of the program, guiding students through the evolving landscape of Generative AI and its creative applications.

In a world where AI integration is still new to many and concerns about job security remain, MAAC’s initiative reinforces the idea that professionals will not be replaced by AI—but by those who can use AI effectively. The Mega Batch training stands as a bold first move in preparing India’s creative workforce to thrive in the AI-driven future.

Pushpa 2: The Rule set for a thunderous World Television Premiere on Zee Cinema with a direct call from Pushpa himself!

The Pushpa phenomenon is back and this time, it’s louder, bolder and coming straight to your television screens. Pushpa 2: The Rule premieres on Saturday, 31st May at 7:30 PM only on Zee Cinema, and to match the scale of the film, the channel is rolling out a promotional campaign that’s just as grand. In a unique move, Zee Cinema is bringing Pushpa closer to audiences than ever before — with specially designed promos where Pushpa himself directly appeals to viewers to sit together with their families and watch the premiere. These promos are more than just reminders – they’re personal invites from the most iconic character of the year.

To keep the experience authentic and powerful, Shreyas Talpade, who has voiced Pushpa in the Hindi version of the film, also lends his voice to these unique promos. His energetic, familiar delivery gives audiences a true taste of what’s to come, building anticipation and bringing the film’s flavor alive on television. Along with Hindi, the channel has also launched special Marathi promos, which speak directly to audiences in key regions across Maharashtra – adding yet another layer to the campaign’s deep, regional connect.

Speaking about the film and his involvement, Shreyas Talpade said, “Pushpa is not just a film anymore, it’s a phenomenon that has captured hearts across the country. The kind of mass connect and energy it has been able to carry is unmatched. So, when Zee Cinema reached out to me with the unique promotion idea of ​​making Pushpa directly appeal to its audience for the premiere, it felt like a natural extension of that world. Voicing for these promos was fun; they engage the audience in a hallmark Pushpa style, directly and powerfully. It’s a fantastic way to build anticipation and bring families together in front of the screen.

 The campaign doesn’t stop at television, Zee Cinema is taking Pushpa’s voice to the streets of India with a massive ground outreach, this immersive experience aims to bring the Pushpa craze to the people, wherever they are, and make this television premiere a celebration everyone can feel a part of.

This 31st May, gather your loved ones, tune into Zee Cinema, and get ready to witness the rule of Pushpa together, as a family.