Category Entertainment

Gudi Padwa is celebrated with joy, tradition, and the promise of new beginnings. From raising the traditional Gudi outside homes to preparing festive delicacies and gathering with loved ones, the festival carries a sense of renewal that brings families and communities together. While each household celebrates it in their own way, the spirit of Gudi Padwa often lies in the small rituals that make the day special, decorating homes, sharing festive meals, and taking a moment to welcome the year ahead with hope and gratitude.

This Gudi Padwa, Sony SAB artists Akshaya Hindalkar, Shrenu Parikh, Rishi Saxena, Deeksha Joshi and Rajat Verma share how they connect with the spirit of the festival and the traditions or memories that make the occasion meaningful for them.

Akshaya Hindalkar, playing Rashi Patel in Pushpa Impossible, shares,“This Gudi Padwa feels special for me as it marks my first one after marriage. Growing up, the festival always symbolised new beginnings, positivity, and the joy of welcoming a fresh chapter. This year, that sentiment feels even more meaningful as I celebrate it with my new family and embrace new traditions, love and togetherness. There is something very heartwarming about waking up early, helping decorate the house, preparing festive dishes together and watching the Gudi being hoisted with so much faith and happiness. I am excited to create new memories and continue the traditions that make this festival so meaningful. I wish everyone a very happy and prosperous Gudi Padwa.”

Shrenu Parikh, playing Goddess Parvati in Ganesh Kartikey, shares,“Gudi Padwa has become a very special festival for me over the last few years. Being a Gujarati, I grew up celebrating our own beautiful traditions, but after getting married into a Maharashtrian family, I’ve had the chance to experience the joy and significance of Gudi Padwa up close. It’s been such a wonderful cultural exchange within the family and I truly cherish how festivals bring together different traditions in the most heartwarming way. Wishing everyone a very happy and prosperous Gudi Padwa. May this new year bring positivity, good health and many beautiful moments with your loved ones.”

Rishi Saxena, playing Sanjay Bhosale in Itti Si Khushi, shares,“Gudi Padwa has always been a festival that carries a beautiful sense of positivity and new beginnings. Over the years, having worked closely in the Marathi industry, I’ve had the chance to experience the warmth and vibrancy with which this festival is celebrated. Many of my closest friends are Maharashtrian, and through them I’ve come to truly appreciate the traditions and emotions attached to Gudi Padwa. From seeing the beautifully decorated Gudis outside homes to enjoying festive meals and the overall festive spirit in the air, it’s always wonderful to witness how families come together to welcome the Marathi New Year with so much joy and faith. Being around friends who celebrate it with such pride has made me feel connected to the festival in a very special way. Wishing everyone celebrating a very happy and prosperous Gudi Padwa.”

Deeksha Joshi, playing Deepti in Pushpa Impossible, shares,“Even though I’m a Gujarati at heart, living in Mumbai has made me appreciate and connect deeply with the beautiful traditions that the city celebrates with so much pride and enthusiasm. I love seeing the city come alive with colourful rangolis, beautifully decorated Gudis outside homes and families coming together to welcome the new year with so much joy and hope. Having spent time shooting a film in Pune as well, I’ve had the chance to experience the warmth and authenticity with which Gudi Padwa is celebrated, and it’s something that stayed with me. Wishing everyone a very happy and prosperous Gudi Padwa.”

Rajat Verma, playing Virat in Itti Si khushi, shares, “Living in Mumbai I can really feel the festival around you. I get to see the colourful Gudis outside homes, rangolis at the entrance, and there’s a certain festive buzz in the neighbourhood from the morning itself. Over time I’ve started appreciating those little details and the positivity the day brings. It feels like a fresh start in many ways. I’d like to wish everyone a very happy Gudi Padwa and hope the new year brings lots of happiness and good energy.”

Tune in to watch Itti Si Khushi, Ganesh Kartikey and Pushpa Impossible, only on Sony SAB 

New Delhi, India | Mar 14:  Swaranjali Delhi, in collaboration with Dhwani Foundation, will present Swar Dhwani Festival 2026 on Sunday, April 19, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Muktadhara Auditorium, Banga Sanskriti Bhawan, 18–19, Bhai Vir Singh Marg, Sector 2, Gole Market, New Delhi.

The festival will feature a series of vocal and instrumental performances by noted artists. The program includes a vocal presentation by The Shriram Millennium School, followed by a vocal performance by Pt. Ashish Narayan Tripathi and a sitar recital by Pt. Smarajit Sen.

The event will also present a vocal duet by Dr. Prabhakar Kashyap and Dr. Diwakar Kashyap, along with a flute performance by Shri Aanjaneya Joshi and a santoor recital by Pt. Raj Kumar Majumdar. The festival will further feature a tabla solo by Pt. Biplab Bhattacharya.

The performances will be supported by co-artists Pt. Shubh Maharaj, Pt. Vinay Mishra, Ustad Babar Latif, Shri Lalit Sisodia, Shri Shubhendu Das, and Shri Rudraksha Shrivastava.

Event Name: Swar Dhwani Festival 2026
Date: Sunday, April 19, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Venue: Muktadhara Auditorium, Banga Sanskriti Bhawan, 18-19, Bhai Vir Singh Marg, Sector 2, Gole Market, New Delhi

RSVP & Contact:
Swaranjali Delhi | Dhwani Foundation
Phone: 9910300319 | 9873003625
Website: www.swaranjali.org

Media Partner: Shreyas Webmedia Solutions Pvt. Ltd.

As the film “Sinners” heads into the upcoming Oscars with a record-breaking 16 nominations, Media Studies Professor Phillip Cunningham is available to provide expert analysis on the film’s groundbreaking business model and its potential impact on the future of the film industry.

Professor Cunningham highlights the unique deal between director Ryan Coogler and Warner Bros., which allows Coogler to regain ownership of the film’s rights after 25 years—an arrangement rarely granted by major studios. According to Cunningham, this agreement represents a notable shift in creative control and challenges long-standing studio practices.

Cunningham can offer insights into what he calls the “Anti-Netflix Model,” explaining how “Sinners” prioritizes a focused theatrical experience rather than the “ambient viewing” commonly associated with streaming platforms.

He can also discuss the film’s significance for Black cinema, noting that traditional studios may have underestimated the mainstream appeal of films led by Black casts. The success of “Sinners,” he suggests, could influence how studios approach future theatrical releases featuring diverse talent.

In addition, Cunningham points to the evolving relationship between streaming services and the traditional studio system. He argues that the dominance of streaming platforms has, in some ways, recreated the powerful studio monopolies of the 1940s—while “Sinners” presents a new model that may challenge this dynamic.

With the film gaining strong awards momentum, Cunningham believes its business approach could influence how future Academy Award contenders are produced, financed, and distributed.

Professor Cunningham is available for interviews and commentary on the broader industry implications of “Sinners,” including theatrical strategy, streaming competition, and changing power dynamics between filmmakers and studios

Mumbai, Mar 09: Entourage Films is carving a unique niche as a women-centric film production house, creating stories that inspire and entertain. Extending this vision, it has  launched its very own podcast – Catch Up With Crew – exploring the experiences of women filmmakers and the culture of working in the entertainment industry through unfiltered stories and behind-the-scenes moments.  

The first episode, Rolling With Her, featured five directors – Jessica Sadana, Shai Samtaney, Arunima Sharma, Roopali Singhal and Shachi Malhotra – in a roundtable conversation with host Garima Arora, offering an honest look at their personal and professional wins. From moving to Mumbai to chase their dreams, their time in film school, to pre-shoot day anxieties and rituals, it became a space for reflecting and speaking freely. The conversation flowed organically across creative freedom, rejection, and balancing pregnancy and motherhood with work. Equal parts breezy and insightful, the episode captured the realities of a career behind the lens while supporting and inspiring each other. 

Talking about the first episode, Garima Arora, Founder & Executive Producer at Entourage Films, said, “These directors have been an inspiration to me, and I am sure they serve as an inspiration for other women around the country. Seeing them thriving as artists from such varied backgrounds can be deeply inspiring. I believe representation like this makes the journey feel more tangible and can potentially set the wheels of someone else’s career in motion, and this is what Catch Up With Crew is all about.”

Sony SAB’s mythological saga Gatha Shiv Parivaar Ki – Ganesh Kartikey now moves into one of its most intense phases as the story builds to Lord Shiva’s fierce Tandav, performed by Avinesh Rekhi. After the emotional turn in Goddess Sati and Lord Shiva’s journey, the track reaches a powerful breaking point where grief transforms into divine fury. Known for its grand visuals and spiritual depth, the show now presents a moment that is both emotionally heavy and visually explosive and bringing this energy to screen demanded deep physical and emotional preparation from Avinesh.

 The Tandav sequence was planned as one of the biggest moments in the current track. The narrative builds slowly toward this breaking point, showing how pain turns into divine fury. The scene was shot on a large scale with dramatic lighting, strong background music and powerful camera movements to capture the intensity. The choreography was designed to reflect both destruction and emotion, while the heavy costume and long jata added to the visual impact. Every detail, from the sound design to the set atmosphere, was created to make this moment feel larger than life and true to the spirit of the show.

Sharing his experience, Avinesh Rekhi, said, “Preparing for the Tandav was one of the most intense experiences for me. It is not just about dancing with force; it is about feeling Lord Shiva’s pain and letting it come through your body. The rehearsals were physically demanding, especially with the costume and the heavy jata, but that helped me stay in the moment, the energy on set,  changed when I was performing the Tandav sequence. There is a certain fire you have to hold inside. I wanted viewers to feel that this is not just anger, it is heartbreak turning into strength.”

Tune in to watch Ganesh Kartikey, every Monday to Saturday at 8 PM, only on Sony SAB

Pune, Mar 05:  Pune, a city renowned for its youthful energy, vibrant college scene, and evolving food culture, offers a diverse range of hangout spots perfect for friends, colleagues, and families. From cosy cafés to lively restaurants, Pune’s food and beverage scene caters to every mood, occasion, and budget, making it a go-to destination for socialising and relaxation.

 Here are five must-visit hangout spots in Pune:

1. Burger Singh – India’s Desi Burger Favourite
Known for its uniquely Indian twist on classic burgers, Burger Singh is a hit among students and young professionals. Bold spices, playful names, and local flavours make it perfect for casual group hangouts. Its friendly ambience, prompt service, and pocket-friendly pricing ensure a satisfying and fun experience.

2. Starbucks – Premium Café Culture
Starbucks is more than just coffee; it’s a hub for group study sessions, brainstorming meetings, or long chats with friends. Its cozy interiors, consistent service, and welcoming atmosphere make it a preferred spot for those seeking a calm, premium café experience in Pune.

3. McDonald’s – The All-Time Favourite
With outlets across the city, McDonald’s remains a reliable choice for families, students, and friend groups. Known for quick service, familiar menu options, and budget-friendly combos, it is a convenient and hassle-free option for casual hangouts.

4. Social – The Trendy Hangout Spot
Social blends café culture with contemporary vibes, offering a creative menu, signature drinks, and eclectic interiors. Popular among young professionals and students, it is ideal for casual meet-ups, evening hangouts, and brainstorming sessions in a lively and modern setting.

5. Barbeque Nation – For Group Celebrations
Barbeque Nation is perfect for large gatherings, birthdays, and weekend get-togethers. Its unlimited grills, buffet-style offerings, and interactive live-grill concept make dining a social and memorable experience, where guests can enjoy food cooked to their preference.

Practical, fun, and social, Pune’s hangout spots cater to a wide spectrum of tastes and experiences, encouraging connections over good food and great company. Whether you are looking for a relaxed café session or a lively group celebration, the city has something for everyone.

Excel Entertainment, Chalkboard Entertainment & Suitable Pictures’ Boong, The First Indian Film to Win a BAFTA, Returns to Theatres on March 6 at PVR INOX

Mar 02: PVR INOX, India’s largest and most premium cinema exhibitor, will bring back the highly acclaimed BAFTA-winning Manipuri film Boong, directed by Lakshmipriya Devi, in select cities and cinemas across India on March 6, 2026. The film was originally released in September last year by PVR INOX.  Excel Entertainment, Chalkboard Entertainment and Suitable Pictures’ Boong had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. The film subsequently travelled to several prestigious international festivals, earning widespread critical acclaim and multiple honours, culminating in a historic win at the BAFTA Awards — becoming the first Indian film to receive the award in the Best Children’s and Family Film category. The film revolves around a little boy, Boong who plans to surprise his mother with a gift. In his innocence, he believes that bringing his absentee father back home would be the most special gift. Boong’s search for his father disintegrates his world but culminates into an unexpected gift.

Talking about the film releasing in theatres again, filmmaker Lakshmipriya Devi said,

“Boong is my bittersweet memory of Manipur. From the writing stage up until now, as we stand on the cusp of a re-release, it has been a deeply personal journey. Winning the BAFTA was and still is surreal; even memory loss wouldn’t make me forget that moment! I am truly happy that Boong is returning to cinemas. Manipur is meant to be experienced on the big screen, and I hope people get the chance to watch it in theatres this time.”

Niharika Bijli, Lead Strategist, PVR INOX Limited, said,

“It’s such a privilege to be re-releasing Boong in India, a film that has not only earned international acclaim but also created history with its BAFTA win. We originally had a limited release of the film last year in September. At PVR INOX, we remain committed to championing diverse cinematic voices. Boong’s re-release is our way of giving audiences across India the opportunity to discover and celebrate this remarkable film in the immersive theatrical environment.”

Catch Excel Entertainment, Chalkboard Entertainment and Suitable Pictures’ Boong on the big screen from March 6, 2026 at PVR INOX. The film is being re-released in India by Anil Thadani (AA Films Pvt. Ltd.) and will open in select cinemas.

Booking details and theatre listings will be announced soon on the official PVR INOX app/website and social media.

Vehicle Specialization is soon expected to come to BATTLEGROUNDS MOBILE INDIA (BGMI) as a mobility-focused power that turns cars from simple transport into strategic assets. What does this mean for players? It means every vehicle on the map could become a calculated advantage rather than just a quick getaway. Instead of adding a new driving mode, the system introduces passive vehicle buffs like reduced fuel consumption, improved durability, and Nitro boosts that allow squads to rotate faster and survive longer on open roads.

 Designed to complement the update’s faster gameplay loop, the power encourages aggressive movement and rewards players who treat vehicles as part of combat strategy rather than just an escape tool.

Here’s What Powering your Drive:

• Vehicle Specialization Power: Passive buffs that improve fuel efficiency, durability, and speed bursts through Nitro

• Mobility-Focused Gameplay: Faster rotations and stronger vehicle survivability change mid-game pacing

• Strategic Driver Role: Vehicles evolve from transport tools into active combat and positioning assets

Alongside it, the new Customize button appears when players enter certain vehicles, acting as an in-match interface for activating themed upgrades. Rather than permanent tuning or garage-style modifications, these enhancements are temporary gameplay boosts tied to the update’s specialization system, reinforcing quick decisions and situational plays during matches.

Together, Vehicle Specialization and the Customize feature signal BGMI’s growing shift toward class-based mechanics that blend mobility, risk, and tactical control without breaking the core battle royale experience.

Chandigarh, Feb 28: AdVITya’26, one of Central India’s flagship techno-cultural college fest at VIT Bhopal, kicked off on February 26, drawing students into a carefully curated mix of technical rigour, gaming intensity and cultural expression. Day 1 opened on a high note of laughter and lived experience as stand-up comic Pranav Sharma took centre stage with Stand-Up Uncut. Mr. Sharma delivered a set that blended campus humour, sharp social observations and relatable storytelling, setting the tone for a festival that refuses to stay within silos.

The festival moved with pace and purpose across disciplines. The tech vertical led from the front, with TechTonic’26, Robo-Mania, Battle Bots, Chakravyuh: Vinash Protocol and Ultron: Learn and Crack pushing participants to code, strategise and build under pressure, while Cyber Carnival: Treasure Hunt, The Blackbox, Hawkathoon, and Rocket League layered logic with live arena energy.

Gaming intensified the momentum through VITB Gamer’s Asylum 6.0, V-RCADE, Imposter Protocol, PLAY IT BIG – Ludo & Ladders and Rush Arena, turning the campus into a charged battleground where leaderboards mattered and teamwork defined outcomes. The entrepreneurial edge came alive at Finance Carnival: Deal or Dominate, demanding negotiation and sharp decision-making, while CTRL+LOL and EvolFEST opened space for wit and experimentation.

Running parallel was a cultural showcase that refused to be an afterthought. Jhalak 26, Rang & Ruckus, Kavya Manch, Padharo Saa 3.0, Haryanvi Heat, Pandora’s House and Upside Down brought dance, poetry, regional pride and immersive storytelling into the spotlight, proving that at VIT Bhopal, innovation and expression thrive side by side.

The crescendo, however, belonged to the music. The much-anticipated Rock A’Blast ignited the stage with raw band energy, building momentum toward the grand Artist Night on 26th February. The 9Teen Band arrived in striking pirate-inspired attire, instantly commanding attention before launching into a vibrant mash-up of old and new Bollywood favourites. Their signature style stitched nostalgia with contemporary beats, turning familiar melodies into high-voltage crowd anthems. It was playful, theatrical and tightly executed, with the audience singing along from the first hook to the final chorus.

Rashmeet Kaur followed with unfiltered energy. Opening with the crowd-favourite Bajre Da Sitta, she set the tempo for a set packed with chartbusters that kept the campus on its feet. Her stage presence was effortless yet commanding, her vocals sharp and immersive. Together, the performances ensured Day 1 closed not quietly, but with a surge of rhythm that continues to echo across AdVITya’26.

While the student competitions across genres roll over to Day 2 and beyond, the artist night on 27th February belongs to Rajasthani folk exponent Jasu Khan Bisu, who brings the desert’s rich musical legacy to VIT Bhopal.

Mumbai, Feb 27:  Wella Professionals, a global leader in professional haircare innovation, has launched ‘Glow From Within’, a campaign film celebrating the Illumina Color City Collection: Mumbai Edition.

 Inspired by Mumbai- a city of contrasts, ambition, creativity, and quiet strength, the ‘Glow from Within’ campaign captures the many moods of the modern woman. From cinematic glamour to soulful individuality and quiet power, each look reflects Mumbai’s spirit through luminous, natural-looking colour that truly glows from within.

Conceptualised in-house, with three signature looks created by the Wella India Ambassadors, the campaign film brings to life a glow-led colour narrative, positioning hair colour as a reflection of identity and individuality. Produced by Bombay Film Company, the film is shot across iconic Mumbai landmarks including the Gateway of India, Flora Fountain, and the Bandra-Worli Sea Link. It showcases three signature looks that interpret the city’s glamour, creativity, and ambition.

The showcases three signature looks from the collection. Glam Glow draws inspiration from Bollywood glamour, featuring neutral and cool brown tones for a sophisticated, camera-ready look. Dreamer Glow reflects Mumbai’s softer, creative side, with delicate blends of cool blondes and natural browns for an ethereal, artistic feel. Power Glow channels the energy of confident working women, using cool browns and soft blondes for understated luxury and professional elegance.

Powered by Illumina Color’s violet base, Microtones Technology and Microlight Technology, the collection is designed specifically for Indian hair. It neutralises unwanted warmth, enhances clarity, and delivers multi-dimensional luminosity.

Commenting on the launch of the brand film, Pravesh Saha, General Manager, South Asia, Wella Company, said,

“With Glow From Within, we wanted to celebrate the spirit, individuality and ambition of women in Mumbai. This campaign is more than a product launch, it is a cultural expression of how hair colour can reflect personality, confidence, and self-expression. We look forward to expanding the City Collection and connecting with women through more city-specific narratives.”

The Mumbai Edition marks the first chapter of Wella Professionals’ city-inspired collection, with more city editions planned to celebrate individuality and the unique identities of women across regions.