Category Entertainment

This Sunday on Sony Entertainment Television, the young contestants of ‘Superstar Singer 3’ will pay a touching tribute to the legendary Mohammed Rafi in the ‘Rafi Night’ episode. Renowned lyricist and poet Manoj Muntashir, acclaimed actor Raza Murad, and celebrated singers Shabbir Kumar and Vineet Singh will grace the show, sharing fascinating trivia about Rafi Ji and his iconic songs. The stage will also welcome television actor Sayli Salunkhe, who will be seen playing Vedika in the channel’s upcoming drama ‘Pukaar Dil Se Dil,’ which premieres on 27th May and will air every Monday to Friday at 8.30 PM.

But it was the exceptionally talented 12-year-old Atharva Bakshi from Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, part of Captain Pawandeep Rajan’s team, who captivated the audience with his heartfelt renditions of “Abhi Na Jao Chhod Kar” and “Tum Jo Mil Gaye Ho” from the films “Hum Dono” and “Hanste Zakhm.”

An impressed Manoj Muntashir applauded the act, saying, “When Atharva was singing, people behind me were saying to each other that ‘He’s a Nanha Rafi.’ So, I’m borrowing my comment from them, you truly are a little Rafi. You sang two songs, both by legendary composers – one by Jaidev Sahab and one by Madan Mohan Sahab. These songs were created long before you were born, but it felt like you had learned from Jaidev Sahab or Madan Mohan Sahab themselves, sitting with them in their music rooms. You sang so well. Many blessings to you.”

Mesmerized by the performance, Super Judge Neha Kakkar complimented Atharva, saying, ” You sing with such dedication, and these two songs by Rafi Sahab are so different. A singer’s identity is recognized through such versatility. Performing two completely different types of songs on one stage shows how amazing and versatile you are. Today, I want to say something to you, Atharva, ‘Baitho na durr humse, dekho khafaa na ho, kismat se mil gaye ho, milke juda na ho.’

Captain Salman Ali also added, “I will call him Atharva Ji because whenever this child sings, something amazing is bound to happen. I always look at him with great respect and admiration. Many singers perform well, but it’s rare to look at someone with such affection and think that’s something special. Atharva has earned that respect by singing so well. You are incredible, Atharva. No matter how much I praise you, it will never be enough because you create a unique atmosphere every time you perform. Well done. Very impressive.”

Following his mesmerizing performance, singer Shabbir Kumar gifted Atharva a self-made sketch of Mohammed Rafi ji as well. Making for yet another charming moment, Sayli aka Vedika from “Pukaar Dil Se Dil Tak” made a special request for Atharva and Devansriya to sing the lullaby of her show, which brings to life the poignant bond shared by a mother and her two daughters.

27th May 2024: Candlelight Concerts, the globally acclaimed series of intimate multi-sensory live musical experiences, is all set to captivate India with the first performances in the country, happening in Mumbai, New Delhi and Faridabad from June 2024. Produced by Live Your City, a brand under the American company Fever Labs Inc., the leading global live-entertainment discovery platform, Candlelight Concerts are a series of original music concerts aimed at democratizing access to classical music by allowing people all over the world to enjoy live music performances in an intimate setting illuminated by thousands of candles.

The concerts line-up – starting in June across Mumbai and Delhi and getting to Faridabad in July– is a captivating blend of classical and contemporary music to cater to diverse musical preferences. Grand Hyatt Mumbai will host the India premiere with “Best Movie Soundtracks” on June 2. Music connoisseurs who miss the premiere will have another opportunity to experience the soundtracks on July 13 and August 4. The Four Seasons in Mumbai will resonate with the anthems of Coldplay played by a local string quartet on June 15, July 19, and August 17.

Delhi’s audiences can look forward to a classic musical journey with the elegance of “From Mozart to Chopin” at the SRCPA on June 14, July 12, and August 9. The same venue will reverberate to “Best Movie Soundtracks” on June 28, July 26, and August 23, while Le Meridien will come alive with the vibrant energy of Coldplay’s iconic hits reinterpreted with classical instruments on June 16, July 6, and August 16. These Candlelight Concert programs will also reach the Radisson Blu Hotel in Faridabad from July 5.

“We are thrilled to see outstanding places in India being transformed by our renowned candlelit setting,”said RachidElameri, Regional General Manager of MENA, APAC & India, LIVE YOUR CITY. “Candlelight concerts’s mission is to democratize access to classical music while working with unique spaces that are part of each city’s cultural heritage, giving visibility to talented local artists, and bringing a wide variety of programs to attend local audiences’ expectations and meet all tastes. We believe that the Candlelight Concerts will resonate deeply with Indian audiences, who have a rich appreciation for art, culture, and music”.

“We are deeply honored to showcase the globally renowned Candlelight Concert Series and host its premiere performance in India at the Grand Hyatt Mumbai,” said DietmarKielnhofer, General Manager and Area Vice President, Hyatt West India. “Our commitment to creating exceptional and memorable experiences for our guests is reflected in every detail of these enchanting concerts. The ambiance of thousands of candles combined with mesmerizing music will provide an unforgettable evening for our guests. We are excited to be at the forefront of this cultural journey, making classical music accessible and engaging for a new generation of enthusiasts.”

The Candlelight concept is particularly renowned for taking classical concerts beyond opera houses and concert halls and into venues that are part of each city’s cultural scene. Candlelight concerts of varying scales have been hosted in all kinds of idyllic locations, spanning from modern rooftops with great views to iconic cathedrals, palaces, libraries, gardens, and more. Amongst the most iconic of these locations have been the Atomium in Belgium, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah in Dubai, among others. This is the first time that these unique experiences are being held in India.

Check out the upcoming programming in India:

MUMBAI

Candlelight: Best Movie Soundtracks
Venue: Grand Hyatt Mumbai
Dates and Times: June 2, July 13, August 4 (Time- 18:30 &21:00 )
Duration: 60 minutes
Musicians: Local String Quartet – to be announced soon
Value: 1 Ticket – from 1,199 onwards

Candlelight: Tribute to Coldplay
Venue: Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai
Dates and Times: June 15, July 19 (Time- 17:00, 19:00 & 21:00 )
Duration: 60 minutes
Musicians: Local String Quartet – to be announced soon
Value: 1 Ticket – from 1,499 onwards

Candlelight: From Mozart to Chopin
Venue: Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai
Dates and Times: August 17 (Time- 17:00, 19:00 &21:00 )
Duration: 60 minutes
Musicians: Pianist – Tavan Shah
Value: 1 Ticket – from 1,499 onwards

DELHI

Candlelight: From Mozart to Chopin
Venue: Shri Ram Centre for Performing Arts (SRCPA)
Dates and Times: June 14, July 12, August 9 (Time- 18:30 & 20:30)
Duration: 60 minutes
Musicians: Pianist – VashuTangri
Value: 1 Ticket – from 1,199 onwards

Candlelight: Best Movie Soundtracks
Venue: Shri Ram Centre for Performing Arts (SRCPA)
Dates and Times: June 28, July 26, August 23 (Time-18:30 & 20:30)
Duration: 60 minutes
Musicians: Local String Quartet – to be announced soon
Value: 1 Ticket – from 1,199 onwards

Candlelight: Tribute to Coldplay
Venue: Le Meridien
Dates and Times: June 16, July 6, August 16 (Time- 18:15 & 21:00)
Duration: 60 minutes
Musicians: Pianist – VashuTangri
Value: 1 Ticket – from 1,499 onwards

FARIDABAD

Candlelight: Tribute to Coldplay
Venue: Radisson Blu Hotel
Dates and Times: July 5 (Time- 19:00)
Duration: 60 minutes
Musicians: Local Pianist – To be announced soon
Value: 1 Ticket – from 1,199 onwards

Candlelight: From Mozart to Chopin
Venue: Radisson Blu Hotel
Dates and Times: July 5 (Time- 21:00)
Duration: 60 minutes
Musicians: Local Pianist – To be announced soon
Value: 1 Ticket – from 1,199 onwards

Candlelight: Best Movie Soundtracks
Venue: Radisson Blu Hotel
Dates and Times: August 10 (Time- 19:00 & 21:00)
Duration: 60 minutes
Musicians: Local Pianist – To be announced soon
Value: 1 Ticket – from 1,199 onwards

Janhvi Kapoor, a noted actress, graced Gaur City Mall with her presence to promote her upcoming film, “Mr and Mrs Mahi.” Janhvi Kapoor’s visit sparked a frenzy among eager fans who gathered in large numbers to catch a glimpse of their favorite star.

Gaur City Mall, renowned for its innovative blend of shopping and entertainment, has emerged as Bollywood’s preferred destination for film promotions in the National Capital Region (NCR). The mall’s strategic location and extensive catchment area make it an ideal venue for hosting high-profile events such as this.

“Gaur City Mall has become Bollywood’s preferred destination for film promotions,” remarked Mrs Manju Gaur, Director of Gaurs Group. “Our mall offers more than just shopping; it provides a vibrant platform for entertainment and engagement. We are delighted to host the gorgeous Janhvi Kapoor for her film – Mr & Mrs Mahi based on the cricketing journey of a woman who is encouraged by her husband to play. We have hosted Ranbir Kapoor, Ayushhman Khurana, Kartik Aryan, Ananya Pandey, Kriti Sanon, Arjun Kapoor, Bhumi Pednekar, Ravi Kishen, and others in the past at Gaur City Mall and we look forward to continuing our association with the film industry for such promotions,” she added.

She also shared that Gaur City Mall offers one of the largest atrium in the country and hence can accommodate a lot of fans for such events. During the promotional event, Janhvi Kapoor interacted with the audience, sharing anecdotes from the film’s production and encouraging fans to watch it upon its release. She even shook a leg, graciously signed autographs, posed for selfies, and engaged in light-hearted conversations with her admirers, further enhancing the excitement surrounding the film.

“Mr and Mrs Mahi,” featuring Janhvi Kapoor and Rajkumar Rao is set to hit theaters nationwide on May 31, 2024, the film promises to deliver a captivating cinematic experience to audiences.

Remakes have been the rage, especially in Bollywood, where they’ve been a beloved trend for quite some time. Filmmakers frequently choose hit storylines from regional films to cater to Hindi-speaking audiences. While some remakes stay true to the original, others miss the mark. Recently, adaptations and remakes like ‘Shaitaan’, based on the Gujarati blockbuster ‘Vash’, have been creating buzz. Today, let’s delve into some popular Original Regional Hits that served as inspiration for Bollywood adaptations, stirring up everyone’s curiosity.

Vash – Shaitaan

Vash, available on ShemarooMe, is a gripping Gujarati supernatural horror thriller directed by Krishnadev Yagnik, featuring Hiten Kumar and Janki Bodiwala in pivotal roles. With outstanding performances and eerie visuals, Vash has garnered global acclaim, earning recognition as a standout in Gujarati cinema. Its popularity and quality prompted Bollywood to create the Hindi remake, Shaitaan, starring Ajay Devgn, Jyotika, and Madhavan, now streaming on Netflix. The story revolves around a family’s tranquil trip to their ancestral farm, which takes a terrifying turn when they encounter a mysterious antagonist. As the daughter falls under the antagonist’s spell, a battle between good and evil ensues.

Drishyam – Drishyam

“Drishyam,” available on Disney+ Hotstar, served as the inspiration for its Bollywood remake of the same name. Directed by Jeetu Joseph, the Malayalam version stars Mohanlal, while the Hindi adaptation on Jio Cinema features Ajay Devgn, directed by Nishikant Kamat. Both versions received acclaim for their captivating suspense thriller plot. The story revolves around an ordinary man’s family accused of a crime. He relies on his wits and cinematic knowledge to outsmart the law, unraveling a complex web of investigation. With talented casts and intense storylines, “Drishyam” promises an enthralling cinematic experience, delving into the depths of human nature.

Arjun Reddy – Kabir Singh

“Arjun Reddy,” streaming on Netflix, inspired the Bollywood hit “Kabir Singh,” starring Shahid Kapoor. Both films received acclaim for their intense drama. While “Arjun Reddy,” directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga starred Vijay Deverakonda and Shalini Pandey in pivotal roles, “Kabir Singh,” starred Shahid Kapoor and Kiara Advani, and mesmerized audiences with raw intensity. The story follows a brilliant yet self-destructive medical student navigating heartbreak and coping mechanisms like anger and substance abuse. Both, Arjun Reddy and Kabir Singh garnered widespread acclaim for its gripping narrative and powerful performances.

Sairat – Dhadak

“Sairat,” a riveting romantic drama on Zee5, inspired the Bollywood remake “Dhadak.” Directed by Nagraj Manjule, “Sairat” delves into the forbidden love story of Parshya and Archie, challenged by caste barriers. This Marathi masterpiece captivated audiences with its powerful narrative. In its Hindi adaptation, “Dhadak,” directed by Shashank Khaitan, the story retained its essence with Ishaan Khattar and Janhvi Kapoor in lead roles. “Sairat” broke barriers, making it a must-watch for those craving immersive romance and thought-provoking storytelling.

Mala Aai Vhhaychy! – Mimi

“Mala Aai Vhaychay!” served as the inspiration behind the Kriti Sanon starrer “Mimi.” Directed and written by Samruoddhi Porey, “Mala Aai Vhaychay” stars Urmilla Kanetkar Kothare, Stacy Bee, and Samruoddhi Porey, while the Hindi adaptation “Mimi” stars Kriti Sanon, Pankaj Tripathi, and Sai Tamhankar in pivotal roles. The story deals with the growing surrogacy practices in India, where women are used as surrogates by foreigners. The film is an emotional drama that tells the story of one such surrogate mother who bears a foreigner’s child. With skillful blending of humor, drama, and social commentary, the film depicts a compelling and relatable journey of self-discovery and fulfillment.

Mumbai, 23rd May 2024: In the vibrant streets of Mumbai, a new kind of bawaal (uproar) is brewing—one that melds the gritty rhymes of hip-hop with the savory slices of New York-style pizza. The instigator? None other than Chaitnya Sharma, better known as SlowCheeta, whose latest EP, Scene Mein Bawaal, has captured the city’s imagination. Now, in an unexpected twist, this musical fervor has spilled over into the culinary world with a never-seen-before collaboration with Rocket Man Pizza for a groundbreaking ‘Kar De Kaa?’ menu.

But wait – this isn’t just a collaboration; it’s a cultural dialogue. SlowCheeta’s EP, with its standout track “Kar De Kaa?”, challenges listeners with its raw portrayal of the Indian hip-hop scene’s struggles and triumphs. The phrase “Kar De Kaa?”—a rhetorical query in the dialects of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar meaning “Should I do it?”—echoes the audacity of challenging the impossible. It’s this spirit that Rocket Man Pizza has sought to channel into its new menu.

Each pizza on the limited-edition menu is not just a dish but a narrative, embodying the cheeky, daring ethos of “Kar De Kaa?”. Imagine biting into the ‘Slow Tikka’—a bold concoction of three peppercorn chicken tikka, brie, and truffle oil, or the ’90s Ke Ladke’, which reimagines the Bombay-style mutton keema on a modern pizza canvas. Additionally, the ‘Kar de Kaa?’ pizza itself is a meal to remember—rich butter paneer paired with stuffed pickled chilies, a feta drizzle, and grilled lacha onions, each bite a blend of creamy and spicy notes that echo the audacious spirit of the track. Meanwhile, the ‘Bawaal’ pizza brings the monsoon’s spirit into play, its tandoori achari mushrooms and masala corn cream topped with corn and pickled onions capturing the essence of Mumbai’s beloved rainy season street snack, Bhutta.

SlowCheeta himself sees this collaboration as an extension of his art. “Food and music are universal languages that cross-cultural barriers,” he explains. “This menu isn’t just about flavor; it’s about feeding the spirit of anyone who dares to dream big.”

On the other side of the collaboration, Rocket Man Pizza’s founders, Chef Anand Morwani and Rohan Mangalorkar view this as a continuation of their own story. Starting with Detroit-style pizzas and transitioning to lighter, New York-style sourdough bases, their journey has been anything but conventional. “The ‘Kar De Kaa?’ menu embodies our philosophy of innovation and audacity,” says Morwani. “It’s about pushing boundaries, in both taste and tradition.”

As Mumbai’s foodies and music lovers alike queue up to taste these lyrical dishes, the ‘Kar De Kaa?’ menu serves as a delicious reminder of the city’s ever-evolving cultural landscape. This collaboration isn’t just about adding a new flavor to the menu—it’s about creating a moment in time where music meets meal, where lyrics lace through layers of cheese and sauce, and where every bite tells a story of hustle, harmony, and hope.

To experience this unique blend of flavors and rhythms, order this limited edition menu from Rocket Man Pizza’s website or Swiggy / Zomato from May 24th to June 2nd, 2024. And for those yet to hear it, SlowCheeta’s “Scene Mein Bawaal” is streaming across all major platforms, promising a musical journey as bold and indomitable as the pizzas it inspired.

*Antrangini directed by Kajal Suri & written by Dr Neelam Verma will be staged on
-Sunday 26th May at 6pm,
in Shri Ram Centre, Mandi House,
New Delhi

The total duration of this Musical Dance Drama presented by RobrooTheater Group in Hindi and Awadhi is 1 hour 30 minutes.

Written by Dr Neelam Verma, the eternal love of Radha-Krishna is portrayed by the writer Dr Neelam Verma in a new light. Krishna comes to meet his Antrangini, Radha for the last time after the Battle of Mahabharat. What compels Krishna to come to Radha once again? Why was Radha impatient to meet her Krishna once again? The composition explores the purpose and relevance of their reunion.

Radha is Krishna’s contemporary. She must have been aware of what all happened after Krishna moved from Vrindavan to Mathura and then to Dwarka. After the devastating Battle of Mahabharat, she must have been desperate to meet him and reassure him in her own way.

On the other hand, though seperated from Radha for a long period, who else could Krishna confide in to express his inner turmoil?

This play strengthens the justification that Radha was truly Krishna’s love and inspiration….his Antrangini!

Besides the love between Radha & Krishna, there is a sensitive take on Yashoda’s motherhood and her concern for her foster son whom she had nurtured with utmost care and affection.

Antrangini is a yet unexplored expression of the mystical love between Radha and Krishna.

The Musical Dance Drama is presented under the meticulous Design and Direction by Kajal Suri.

Bangalore 18th May 2024: To celebrate International Museum Day (IMD) on the 18th of May 2024 this year, The ‘Indian Music Experience Museum’ is organizing a series of week-long events to raise awareness and highlight the role of museums as an important means of cultural exchange, enrichment of cultures and development of mutual understanding, cooperation and peace among people. Indian Music Museum Experience will host an array of vibrant activities celebrating the diverse musical heritage of India with a special focus on youngsters. Events that have been planned include community drumming sessions, where participants can join a drum circle to explore the art of communication through percussion, facilitated by the Drum Jam Foundation. Additionally, children can attend a workshop on “Konnakol and Instrument Making,” which introduces them to various instruments and the basics of Konnakol. This hands-on session also includes crafting a harmonica from paper, ice cream sticks, and toothpicks.

“International Museum Day is celebrated each year as a reminder to preserve, and celebrate India’s rich cultural heritage. In keeping with this year’s theme, ‘Museums for Education and Research,’ which underlines the important role that museums play in fostering learning and education, we are encouraging youngsters to visit museums, as it fosters a deep connection to our rich tradition. By participating in our specially curated events and programs, youngsters can connect with their roots, gain a broader perspective of our cultural diversity, and be inspired to carry forward the legacy of our rich and diverse heritage. We have planned several activities beginning tomorrow, which will provide an immersive and educational experience to foster a deeper appreciation of India’s rich musical traditions” Preema John, Director, Indian Music Experience Museum said.

Part of the week-long celebrations at IME also includes an “Open Stage @ IME” featuring performances in music, spoken word, and comedy. In addition, Vikram Sridhar will also lead “Strung Together – Storytelling,” a session that weaves stories of India’s single string instruments like the Iktara, Kinnaram, and Sruti, highlighting their role in community singing and cultural cohesion

18th May 2024: One of the most popular, versatile, and widely loved content creators, who effortlessly experiments between comedy and beauty, Ankush Bahuguna, attended the 77th Cannes Film Festival, marking his debut. Representing India on the global stage, Ankush donned a Rajdeep Ranawat ensemble at the Brut x Nespresso Party and India Pavilion Party that seamlessly blended traditional craftsmanship with contemporary style, showcasing the rich and intricate Indian cultural artistry.

Ankush hit up the Brut x Nespresso Party, exuding regal splendor in a masterpiece by the ace designer Rajdeep Ranawat. Draped in a striking printed silk jacket and pants, paired with a sheer shirt adorned with crystals, Bahuguna epitomized Ranawat’s signature blend of sophistication and glamour. His riveting look was impeccably complemented by a pair of Patina lace-up shoes, meticulously custom-made for Bahuguna by Tōramally, a homegrown footwear brand by Rahul Shastri. With the addition of exquisite jewelry from Amrapali, his appearance was nothing short of mesmerizing, radiating the essence of royalty with every graceful step he took.

15th May 2024 Gurugram: Today, Devyani International Limited (DIL), one of the largest Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) operators in India, and PVR INOX Limited, the largest and the most premium cinema exhibitor in India, proudly extend their association and announce a strategic partnership to jointly establish a company in India for development and operation of food courts within shopping malls.

This significant partnership not only deepens the trust in each other’s expertise within their respective business domains but also reinforces the existing partnership. This partnership will empower Devyani International & PVR INOX to reach a wider audience and expand their market presence.

Mr. Ravi Jaipuria, Non-Executive Chairman, Devyani International Limited said “This partnership further consolidates DIL’s position in the food courts business in India and has paved the way for additional growth and expansion opportunity. We are elated to have embarked on yet another association with PVR INOX and elevated our collaboration. DIL is committed to expanding its food courts business in India as one of the strategic future growth pillars.”

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Ajay Bijli, Managing Director, PVR INOX Limited said “We are happy to announce this strategic association, with Devyani International Limited (DIL), a partner we truly admire. Through this opportunity, PVR INOX will be able to pivot into a pre-ticketed F&B revenue stream as opposed to the current post-ticketed F&B revenue that’s very movie lineup dependent. It is the first of the many steps we intend to take to further expand our F&B business. Also, our ability to co-promote both movies and food to a 150 million audience would be the USP of this collaboration.

Mumbai, 15th May 2024: In an era where mothers tirelessly juggle countless responsibilities, often prioritizing their family’s well-being above their physical health, Ritebite Max Protein is addressing this overlooked need with its innovative campaign, #MyMummyStrongest, this Mother’s Day. The campaign is dedicated to introducing physical strength into the much-celebrated narrative of the strong mom, encouraging mothers to prioritize their physical well-being.

Moving beyond a one-time gesture, the brand aims to empower mothers to cultivate a long-term commitment to self-care, fostering not only physical fitness but also mental well-being. By encouraging moms to view the gym as a “second home” dedicated to their health, Ritebite Max Protein’s campaign beautifully spreads awareness about the essential role self-care plays in a mother’s life.

In collaboration with Schbang, the brand created pre-launch buzz for their campaign. The strategy, featuring a self-filmed video and a humorous approach in an in-house reel, sparked curiosity and speculation among audiences. It effectively captured their attention, leaving them eager to learn more about the forthcoming initiative.

By collaborating with the renowned @WeightlifterMummy, a 68-year-old fitness enthusiast, Ritebite Max Protein aims to ignite a movement where more mothers can experience the transformative benefits of regular physical training. WeightlifterMummy aka Roshini Devi Sangwan overcame age and health challenges, becoming a beacon of inspiration for those who might have set aside their fitness goals. Through her inspiring story, she proves that age is just a number when it comes to health and well-being. This partnership sends a powerful message to mothers everywhere, demonstrating that prioritizing physical fitness is both achievable and essential at any stage of life.