Category Entertainment

In the world of television, there are moments when fiction feels all too real, and Shemaroo Umang’s popular show Main Dil Tum Dhadkan recently brought one such moment to life. The gripping episodes transported viewers into the depths of a family’s worst nightmare—echoing similar real-life tragedies.

In this storyline, Kanha, played by the talented child actor Kavish, is pushed into an open borewell by Pankaj, who wants to take revenge on Vrinda. What follows is a heart-wrenching sequence in which the family’s joy-filled world is turned upside down. As the rescue team works tirelessly to save the little boy, his parents, Vrinda and Keshav, are left grappling with a storm of helplessness, fear, and desperation.

Speaking about the intense sequence, Radhika Muthukumar, who plays Kanha’s mother Vrinda, shared her deeply personal connection to the scene “Honestly, the emotions came very naturally. It’s been almost two months since I started working with Kavish, and I’ve grown to feel like his real mother on set. When I learned about this sequence, I did some research and watched interviews of parents and villagers involved in such tragedies. It helped me understand the gravity of the situation. While shooting, I could genuinely feel the helplessness of a parent in such a moment. My heart goes out to families who have faced such unimaginable circumstances.”

The scene not only tugged at heartstrings but also reminded audiences of the resilience of families and communities in moments of crisis. While the rescue team works tirelessly, Vrinda and Keshav leave no stone unturned to save Kanha and pray for his safe return.

Sony Entertainment Television, that introduced Indian audiences to the iconic horror show Aahat, is set to redefine the genre with its latest Horror offering; Aami Dakini. This intriguing new show promises to take horror storytelling a notch up with its gripping narrative infused with mystery, drama, and eerie supernatural elements. Set against the perfect mix of beautiful & haunting backdrop of Kolkata, Aami Dakini unravels a dark and mysterious tale of love, loss, and revenge. Bringing this enigmatic and eerie character to life is the talented Sheen Dass, who steps into the role of Dakini.

At its core, it unravels the emotional and psychological turmoil of Dakini—a woman whose soul has been trapped between life and death for decades. Burdened with grief, longing, and injustice, she returns in search of the husband she lost, embarking on an unrelenting quest that will send shivers down the spine.

Sheen Dass who makes her much-anticipated debut in the horror genre expresses her excitement saying, “What excites me the most about the show is the blend of horror, mystery and human emotion. I’m thrilled to be a part of the show that brings something fresh to the horror genre. Playing Dakini will be a challenge as she’s more than just a ghost, but she has a past, a story to tell. To bring this complexity to life, I had to undergo extensive character study and training. She is not just a ghost seeking revenge—her emotions are deeply rooted in trauma and injustice. There is so much emotion packed into this one character, and I can’t wait for the audience to experience it”

NCPA is thrilled to announce the return of The Gentlemen’s Club following its smash hit run last September! Experience Patchwork Ensemble’s electrifying new version of their critically acclaimed show, taking you deep into Mumbai’s pulsating underground club scene.

Step into the exhilarating lives of the city’s drag kings, led by the enigmatic Rocky, also known as Shammsher. Rocky’s act is a dynamic tribute to the legendary Shammi Kapoor and the golden era of Hindi cinema. Alongside Rocky, a diverse ensemble of women embraces the art of drag, delivering a cabaret-style performance that transports audiences into a gritty, hidden world where identities are fluid, and you can be anyone you desire.

Featuring a dazzling mix of dance, music, and projection, The Gentlemen’s Club unfolds an exciting, provocative narrative that celebrates women and their exploration of masculinity. Don’t miss this bold, boundary-pushing performance that’s as entertaining as it is thought-provoking!

The NCPA run of Gentlemen’s Club comes right before the production hits London’s West End at the Soho Theatre. This will mark the first theatre collaboration between the NCPA and the renowned London venue.

MUMBAI, India, February 04, 2025- Prime Video, India’s most loved entertainment destination, today announced the exclusive global streaming premiere of Global Star Ram Charan’s latest film, Game Changer. Directed by widely acclaimed filmmaker S Shankar, in his Telugu debut, this high-octane political actioner is produced by Dil Raju under his banner, Sri Venkateswara Creations. Headlined by Ram Charan in a promising dual role, the star-studded cast also boasts Kaira Advani, Anjali, S.J. Suryah, Srikant, Sunil, Jayaram, and Samuthirakani in pivotal roles. The big-ticket movie will be available to stream exclusively on Prime Video in India and across 240 countries and territories worldwide from February 7 in Telugu, with dubs in Tamil and Kannada. Game Changer marks the latest addition to the Prime membership. Prime members in India enjoy savings, convenience, and entertainment.

Game Changer follows Ram Nandan, a principled IAS officer from Visakhapatnam who takes on the herculean task of uprooting the deep-seated corruption within the political system. But his efforts pit him against the formidable Bobbili Mopidevi, a ruthless and power-hungry politician determined to become the Chief Minister by any means necessary. As Ram delves deeper into the web of corruption, he uncovers the vast and sinister nexus of those who will stop at nothing to protect it. With constant threats and danger at every turn, Ram remains undeterred in his mission to expose the rot and ensure justice prevails. Packed with high-stakes action, gripping drama, and a fierce battle between power and principle, the film explores one man’s unshakable will to rewrite the rules.

National, January 30, 2025: PVR INOX, India’s largest and most premium cinema chain, is set to take cinephiles on a nostalgic journey with the launch of Timeless Classics, aimed at reintroducing some of the most iconic Indian and international films to the big screen. Beginning on January 31st, this property offers audiences the unique opportunity to rediscover and celebrate cinematic masterpieces that have had a profound influence on audiences and the industry alike and continue to inspire a whole new generation of creators and viewers.

The Timeless Classics series will begin with the iconic romantic drama Kabhi Kabhie, directed by Yash Chopra—a film that has become an integral part of India’s cinematic history. The celebration continues in February with two more timeless romances by the legendary filmmaker: Silsila and Chandni, both of which have left an indelible mark on romantic cinema.

February will also feature the restored version of Awara, a timeless classic by Raj Kapoor, and Aradhana, a much-loved film starring the iconic duo Rajesh Khanna and Sharmila Tagore, directed by Shakti Samanta. These meticulously restored editions of landmark films offer audiences a chance to experience their cultural and cinematic significance in a contemporary setting. With a diverse range of romantic films that have defined the genre, February promises to be a celebration of love and nostalgia on the big screen.

Curated exclusively for discerning audiences, Timeless Classics will feature limited re-releases at select premium PVR INOX cinemas, offering an immersive experience with superior sound and visual quality. As part of this initiative, a new lineup of classics will be introduced every Friday, ensuring fresh selections for movie lovers to enjoy each week.

Niharika Bijli, Lead Strategist at PVR INOX, commented on the new launch, “Timeless Classics at PVR INOX is a celebration of cinema. Our goal is to not only revive these classic films but to provide a dedicated platform for these cinematic masterpieces. This curated series offers audiences a rare chance to experience iconic films on the big screen, appreciate their timeless relevance, and acknowledge their continued and lasting impact on our legacy as moviemakers and moviegoers.”

Enter the world of The Storyteller, a mesmerizing film that will both tug at your heartstrings and awaken your imagination. Premiering on Disney+ Hotstar on January 28, 2025, this enchanting film is inspired by Satyajit Ray’s classic short story Golpo Bolo Tarini Khuro. With its themes of friendship, personal growth, and the profound impact of storytelling, it offers a rich and evocative experience that feels both timeless and intimate. Directed by the acclaimed Ananth Narayan Mahadevan, the film features an exceptional ensemble cast, including the incomparable Paresh Rawal, the brilliant Adil Hussain, the iconic Revathy, and the talented Tannishtha Chatterjee. The Storyteller weaves a delicate balance of humor, warmth, and emotional depth, reminding us of the extraordinary stories that shape our lives and leave a lasting imprint on our hearts.

Director, Ananth Mahadevan says, “Working on The Storyteller was truly a deeply personal journey for me. The beauty of Satyajit Ray’s story lies in its timeless essence, and to bring it to life with such an incredible cast was nothing short of magical. Stepping into the genial mind of Ray and attempting to visualize the film like he would, was the real challenge.Disney+ Hotstar, with its far-reaching platform, offers an intimate connection with audiences, and I felt that sense of closeness throughout the entire process. I’m excited for people to watch the film and share in the warmth, wisdom, and emotions that have made this film so special to me. I hope it resonates with everyone the way it has with me.”

Paresh Rawal said, “Playing Tarini Khuro was like stepping into a world of wisdom, wit, and wonder. This story isn’t just a tale—it’s a journey of emotions that stays with you long after it ends. I’m overjoyed that The Storyteller will now reach homes through Disney+ Hotstar, and I can’t wait for everyone to experience the magic, the humor, and the heart of this film. It’s a piece of my soul I’m sharing with the audience.”

Adil Hussain said, “The Storyteller is so much more than a film—it’s a heartfelt celebration of the stories that shape us and the connections that make us human. Being a part of this beautiful journey has been an honor, and I’m overwhelmed with joy knowing it will now touch lives through Disney+ Hotstar. I hope it brings warmth, laughter, and meaning into everyone’s lives, just as it did for us while making it.”

Revathy said, “This is one of those rare films that speaks straight to the heart. The Storyteller reminds us of the healing power of stories, the beauty of human connections, and the timeless wisdom they carry. Knowing that this incredible journey will now unfold for audiences on Disney+ Hotstar fills me with so much emotion. I hope it touches your hearts, inspires you, and stays with you as it did with me.”

Get ready to step into a world where stories aren’t just told—they come alive and touch your heart most beautifully. The Storyteller isn’t just a film; it’s a heartfelt journey filled with magic, emotions, and unforgettable moments that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

This much-celebrated movie comes to life under the skilled production of Jyoti Deshpande, Salil Chaturvedi, Succhanda Chatterjee, and Shubha Shetty under the production company of Jio Studios, Purpose Entertainment & Quest Films. The film’s enchanting and whimsical vibe is beautifully elevated by its soulful soundtrack, crafted by the talented team of Hriju Roy.

MUMBAI—January 29, 2025—Prime Video, India’s most loved entertainment destination, today unveiled an intriguing trailer for its much-anticipated Original movie, The Mehta Boys. The movie is directed by Boman Irani, who has co-written it alongside Academy Award winner Alex Dinelaris, and is produced by Boman Irani, Danesh Irani, Vikesh Bhutani, and Shujaat Saudagar under the banner of Irani Movietone LLP in association with Chalkboard Entertainment LLP. A heartfelt father-son story, the movie features a highly talented and versatile cast, featuring Boman Irani, Avinash Tiwary, Shreya Chaudhry, and Puja Sarup in lead roles. The Mehta Boys is set to premiere exclusively on Prime Video in India and over 240 countries and territories worldwide in Hindi, with dubs in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada and subtitles in multiple languages on February 7.

The trailer for The Mehta Boys offers a heartfelt and emotionally charged glimpse into a story brimming with family conflict, vulnerability, and growth. The stellar performances of its cast shine through, in the trailer, capturing the raw, unfiltered dynamics of a father-son relationship strained by misunderstandings and unspoken emotions. With its blend of light-hearted moments and intense emotional depth, the narrative unravels the imperfections of its characters, making them deeply relatable and authentic. This moving tale promises to explore the complexities of human connections, offering viewers of all ages, a story that’s as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.

“For me, The Mehta Boys is an extremely personal journey,” said writer, actor, director, and producer, Boman Irani. “The relationship between a father and son is one of the most complex and emotionally charged dynamics. With this film, I wanted to delve into how the bond between two people who deeply care for each other can be tested by time, misunderstandings, and unresolved issues. It is a story that has stayed with me for years, and I’m thrilled to finally share it with audiences in India and across the world on Prime Video. I am deeply grateful to the talented cast for bringing their characters to life with such depth and authenticity, enriching the story in every way.”

Avinash Tiwary, who portrays the role of Boman Irani’s son Amay in the movie, shared, “Amay’s character is layered with complexities, torn between familial loyalty and personal resentment. Certain circumstances force him into an intense and transformative encounter with his father, reshaping his perspective in ways he never anticipated. Portraying this journey was both challenging and rewarding. I am proud to be part of a movie that explores such relatable themes of family ties and reconciliation. I am sure the viewers, not only from India but from across the world, will truly enjoy and connect with this beautiful story of human relationships when it premieres on Prime Video on February 7.”

Shreya Chaudhry who plays Zara, says, “My Character Zara, Amay’s girlfriend, is a strong, independent woman with her own perspective. She plays a key role in encouraging Amay to confront his issues with his father instead of continuing to pretend they don’t exist. What I loved about my character was that she is not in the shadows as someone’s love interest, but has a meaningful role in shaping the story with her strength and individuality, even though the storyline revolves around the dynamics of a father-son relationship. I am incredibly proud to bring this story to life along with talented actors such as Boman Irani, Avinash Tiwary, and Puja Sarup. I am looking forward to the audience witnessing the compelling narrative when The Mehta Boys premieres on Prime Video in India and worldwide on February 7.”

Puja Sarup who plays Anu said, “Anu, in many ways, is the anchor of the story. As the daughter and sister caught in the crossfire between two stubborn men, my character tries to be the voice of reason, tries to step into her mother’s shoes. It has been an incredible experience, collaborating with Boman, Avinash and Shreya. We’ve seen the love and appreciation the The Mehta Boys has garnered thus far and I am thrilled that we’re taking the story to a global audience with the film premiering on Prime Video in India and across the world.”

On this Republic Day, as we stand tall in the pride of our nation’s journey, it’s important to pause, reflect, and ask ourselves some tough questions. Kamya Panjabi, who plays the character of Mohini in Sun Neo’s Ishq Jabariya, shared some of the tough questions that crossed her mind on this significant occasion and expressed her thoughts on the matter.

Kamya says, “Republic Day is a reminder of the strength and beauty of our democracy, but it also makes me question are we truly living up to the ideals set by our Constitution. We speak of equality, yet many in our country are still struggling for basic rights. We celebrate freedom, but is everyone really free to express their opinions without fear?”

The Ishq Jabariya Actress further continues, “I love my country deeply, and that’s why I feel the need to speak up. Patriotism isn’t just about waving flags or singing the anthem it’s about standing up for what’s right, even if it’s uncomfortable. It’s time we stop hiding behind traditions and start addressing issues like corruption, discrimination, and injustice head-on. On this Republic Day, I urge everyone to not just celebrate, but also reflect and act. Real change starts with us.”

Ishq Jabariya, airing on Sun Neo at 7:30 PM, is an engaging love story centred around Gulki, a determined young woman with big aspirations. The show boasts a stellar cast, including Kamya Panjabi, Siddhi Sharma, and Lakshay Khurana in key roles, bringing depth and emotion to this captivating narrative.

Hyderabad, 28th January 2025: The third edition of the iconic 3-day music and dance extravaganza, ‘Ramayana Kalpavrksam’, conceived and curated by Hyderabad-based acclaimed dancer Dr. Ananda Shankar Jayant, a celebrated artist and cultural ambassador, will be hosted from 31st January 2025 to 2nd February 2025, at the CCRT campus, Hyderabad. The signature festival and India’s finest talents in classical arts in a unique confluence of art, tradition, and scholarship is being presented by Shankarananda Kalakshetra and Natyarambha, in collaboration with Brhat. The festival is to be inaugurated by Chief Guest Sri Tejasvi Surya, Member of Parliament.

According to Ananda the creator of the annual festival, Ramayana Kalpavrksam brings Sri Rama Chetana back into our lives, a 3-day immersion into all things Rama through the prism of top-class performances, of dance, music, and Harikatha, through stars and doyens in the field, inspiring and scholarly talks, by renowned and young scholars, learning workshops on Indic knowledge, exhibitions, crafts and more.

The highlights performances in the evening segment, ‘Ramarasa’ promises to be a mesmerizing celebration of art and devotion, featuring an array of stellar performances from the worlds of Carnatic music, classical dance, and storytelling, with the renowned Carnatic duo Ranjani-Gayatri, premiering their much-anticipated musical feature, ‘RAMA by RaGa’; Vishaka Hari, the Harikatha legend, will enchant the audience with ‘Ramayana: The Life-Giving Tree’; a breathtaking presentation of Rukmini Devi Arundale’s iconic dance choreography, ‘Sabari Moksham,’ brought to life by the Kalakshetra Foundation; the rare and vibrant Manipuri Raas, Pung and Dhol Cholam, performed by the JN Manipuri Dance Academy, Imphal, transporting audiences to the cultural heart of Manipur and a soulful invocation, ‘Takkuvemimanaku,’ performed by the Shankarananda Kalakshetra ensemble. Each performance is a testament to the timeless legacy of Indian art forms, weaving together music, dance, and storytelling in an unforgettable homage to Lord Rama.

The morning sessions, ‘Ramamrita’ brings together six remarkable and scholarly speakers, each offering a unique perspective on the timeless epic of the Ramayana. Prof. Shrinivasa Varakhedi, Vice Chancellor of Central Sanskrit University, renowned for his deep understanding of Sanskrit literature and philosophy; Yashodeep Deodhar, creator of the widely popular 21Notes, sharing innovative insights into the Ramayana; Ami Ganatra, acclaimed author of bestselling books on the Ramayana, known for her fresh and thought-provoking interpretations; Dr. Anupama Kylash, a celebrated dance scholar, illuminating the Ramayana through the lens of classical Indian dance and culture; Dr. DK Hari and Dr. DK Hema, creators of the Bharat Gyan series, bringing their extensive research on India’s ancient wisdom and the Ramayana to life and Vikram Sridhar, a gifted young storyteller, weaving the magic of the Ramayana with his compelling narratives. This exceptional lineup promises to delve into the myriad facets of the Ramayana, blending scholarship, creativity, and storytelling to inspire and enlighten.

As part of the vibrant three-day festival, an array of engaging learning workshops and unique experiences await participants, in ‘Kala Charan’: a Sanskrit Learning Workshop, led by Udaya Shreyas of the Sanskrit Channel, offering an immersive dive into the beauty and essence of Sanskrit. A hands-on fabric painting session will have the young and talented artist Anusha Namburi, exploring the art of adorning fabric with creativity and a traditional Cheriyal Painting art form is brought to life by acclaimed Cheriyal artist Madhu Merugoju. The fest will also have a captivating display of vintage lithographs from the treasured collection of Pratima Sagar and MC Mohan, showcasing the divine in Indian households, ‘Framing Divinity – Devas in Our Homes’ as well as ‘Kala Grama’, a bustling bazaar celebrating the craftsmanship of talented artisans, offering a glimpse into India’s rich heritage and artistry, Ramayana Kalpavrksam promises to captivate attendees and leave them enriched by India’s timeless traditions.

Celebrating the infinite possibilities that art presents, Kommune’s beloved storytelling melting pot, Spoken Fest, braces itself for its seventh edition. The 2025 edition will host a stellar line-up of performers, both music and spoken word, regaling the audience on the 1st and 2nd of February at the Jio World Garden, Mumbai.

A key highlight of Spoken Fest in Mumbai is a conversation with two of the most respected figures in music—Gulzar Saab and Shankar Mahadevan. In a candid discussion with Roshan Abbas, founder of Kommune, they’ll reflect on their careers, their art, and the moments in between. And that’s just the beginning. The seventh edition promises experiences that will stay with you long after the event. That’s the power of words.

Lights. Camera. Words

At the Spoken Fest 2025, the actors and creators who have entertained us throughout the years from behind the screen will take centre stage, connecting with their fans through the intimate medium of storytelling. There will be some familiar faces from the entertainment business that will captivate the crowd with the magic of words. The line-up comprises a diverse group of people, which includes Huma Qureshi, Divya Dutta, Gajraj Rao, Ankur Tewari, Suhani Shah, Ankush Bahuguna, Nikhil Taneja, Ahilya Bamroo, Vivaan Shah, and other amazing performers.

Literary Events

To make the experience at the Spoken Fest more immersive, there are many experiential booths for the attendees. During the seventh edition, the festival has some interesting literary experiences that will be curated to unite the bibliophiles.

There is a Blind Book Date, where strangers will become fellow book buddies, a delightful experience that will add another book to your expansive collection. Along with this exciting congregation of book lovers, Book Swap Library will add a new literary expedition to your list. A small nook will be dedicated to books brought in by your fellow readers.

Poetry For Healing

The seventh edition of Spoken Fest will also have a dedicated poetry section to experience the healing powers of words. Poetry Apothecary is a dedicated corner for poetry books. Another experience is Poetry Busker, a corner where our dedicated poets will write a customised poem for you on the subject of your choice.

Tune In To Tune Out

Spoken Fest, for its six editions, has created a space for artists for their talents to thrive. It has been a democratic space for music artists to present their talent. For the seventh edition, the cultural evenings will feature a diverse lineup of music artists, including, Wild Wild Women, The Aahvaan Project, Snehdeep Singh Kalsi, Khasi Bloodz, Vidhya Gopal, and Siddharth Pandit.

To elevate attendees’ musical experience, The Revolver Club will have a vinyl station to evoke nostalgia. At the booth, the audiophiles can listen, browse, and buy their favourite records.

Reflect With Art

Art draws out something lingering but invisible to the naked eye! Throughout our journey of life, there have been phases where art became a companion, sketching the complex world we live in with a stroke of a brush.

At the Spoken Fest, there will be an Art/Heart station to bring that creative streak and paint your life, reflecting the life that has gone by. The event has become a haven for the hustlers to sit, reflect, and ponder about life, a privilege one is deprived of in the bustling maximum city. So, sit with colours, stamps, and strangers, painting the portrait of life!

Kahaani Ki Dukaan

Kahaani Ki Dukaan, a community-driven story collective located in the serene state of Himachal Pradesh, comes down to Spoken Fest every year. Founded by Anoop Chough and Jasmine Kaur, Kahaani Ki Dukaan has become an audience-favourite experiential spot at the Spoken Fest.

Anoop left his corporate job, tapping into the fascinating universe of stories. They run this small non-profit to help children embrace the unconventional storyteller in them. Kahaani Ki Dukaan is a space filled with stories, songs, and music.

Tarot Tavern

At the Spoken Fest, the Tarot Tavern booth might have the answers to puzzling questions about your future and fate. The tarot card reader holds the key to the door of the unknown. Get a personalised reading session during the city’s dazzling literary event!

The energy of the previous editions of Spoken Fest deeply resonated with the Mumbai fans, intertwining the spirit of the city with some remarkable performances. Like every year, along with memorable performances, there are experiential booths that will elevate the experience at the Spoken Fest. The seventh edition is all set to fill the audiences’ hearts with a lifetime of memories and an indelible evening full of music, words, and poetry under the same sky!

All performances will be available on Kommune’s YouTube Channel. Say hi to the camera to find yourself in the after-movie!