Category Entertainment

Mumbai, July 21, 2025: Amazon MX Player, Amazon’s free video streaming platform, continues to bring emotionally resonant stories to the forefront with Mitti, an inspirational drama that’s been garnering praise from critics and audiences alike, ever since its premiere. Boasting an outstanding IMDb rating of 8.5, the series follows Raghav, a high-flying advertising executive who returns to his ancestral village after his grandfather’s death, only to find himself confronting guilt, rediscovering identity, and planting the seeds of change in rural India.

At its heart, Mitti is about roots — the ones we run from, the ones we carry, and the ones we eventually return to. Starring Ishwak Singh, Shruti Sharma, Diksha Juneja, Yogendra Tiku, and Alka Amin, the series is brought to life with grounded performances and authentic storytelling.

Speaking about what made the role of Raghav deeply personal, Ishwak Singh shared, “There were multiple aspects to Raghav’s journey that hit close to home for me. But among the top few, I think the first is his connection to his rural roots and his family. Today, so many of us live away from our hometowns, whether for work, education, or chasing our dreams. But no matter where life takes you, your soul always carries the imprint of the place you belong to. I related to that the most. I’ve also moved cities, shifted homes, and now live away from my family, who is in Delhi. So that connection felt very real.”

Mitti is now streaming for free exclusively on the Amazon MX Player app on mobile and Connected TVs, on the Amazon shopping app, Prime Video, Fire TV, and Airtel Xstream.

“Over generations, kindness has changed”, Anupam Kher on the changing nature of the industry on In The Ring with Filmfare

Catch Unfiltered Anupam Kher in his most honest, heartfelt avatar on In the Ring with Filmfare, now streaming on Filmfare’s YouTube Channel

July 19, 2025: From walking into Mumbai with just ₹37 in his pocket to building a filmography that spans over 540 films across languages and continents, Anupam Kher’s journey has been anything but ordinary. In the latest episode of In The Ring with Filmfare, the veteran actor sits down with Jitesh Pillaai for an unfiltered, honest conversation—one that dives deep into rejection, resilience, and the quiet power of self-belief.

Known for his unforgettable performances, Anupam Kher is one of Indian cinema’s most enduring and respected actors. From powerful roles in Saaransh, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, and A Wednesday, as well as acclaimed international titles like Silver Linings Playbook and New Amsterdam, he has consistently demonstrated incredible range and depth as a performer. He is also a writer, theatre artist, and motivational speaker who has consistently connected with audiences beyond the screen. Despite the fame, he’s remained grounded, staying true to a journey marked by rejection, self-doubt, and the steady building of a legacy that continues to evolve with every passing year.

On tracing his path from a small town to becoming a pillar of Indian cinema, Kher shares what he’d say to his younger self, “My 20-year-old younger self is someone I would tell to dream. Continue to dream and don’t worry about obstacles or failures because that’s what my father taught me: failure is an event, never a person. And I would also tell him, don’t worry if you go bad, because that will become your trademark, and then so many people will want to be like you. I’m genuinely very happy with how my life has turned out. I have no regrets. It’s a beautiful life. God has been very kind to me. I come from a small town, and my father used to earn ₹190 per month. I came to the city on the 3rd of June 1981, with just ₹37 in my pocket. Now, 40 years later, I have having done 546 films. In this city, millions and millions of people come to make it, but only 0.01% do. I’m one of those, so I have no complaints.”

Looking back at the early rejections that shaped his grit, Kher recalls the moments that cut deep, and what they taught him about empathy, “There have been a lot of kind advice and things that happened in my life. But I want to highlight the unkind things, too. I saw so many big actors treat their boys so badly. And so many people said to me, ‘What will you do in your life? You don’t have hair, you’re not that good looking.’ That’s when I really started struggling to fit in and build a career. I remember being in Natraj Studio, and someone told me, ‘You cannot be an actor.’ So I believe, no matter what, one must always choose to be kind.”

Speaking on how the world has changed, he reflects on a shift in values in today’s fast-paced world, “Over generations, kindness has changed. People are no longer kind. People are no longer compassionate. People have become very competitive. And I’m not saying that’s a bad thing, it’s just the truth. The mobile phone has taken over our lives. I’ve seen doctors scrolling on their phones right before a shot, saying, ‘Okay, ready?’ And I think, where’s the relationship? Where’s the bonding? It’s not there anymore.”

Recounting a career-defining moment, Kher remembers how he fought to reclaim what was his, “I was finalized for Saaransh and rehearsed for six months. I used to go to Shivaji Park, observe people’s movements, walk with a stick, really get into the character. One day, I found out I had been replaced by Sanjeev Kumar. I was shocked. I immediately went to Mahesh Bhatt’s house and fought for my role. I told him, ‘He can’t do the role—I was finalized six months ago.’ I fought for it and got the role back. That day, I learned how to fight for myself. Because when you manipulate friendship, that’s not real friendship. With Mahesh Bhatt, I’ve always shared mentorship and genuine camaraderie.”

Speaking candidly about his battle with depression, Kher shares the life-altering advice that helped him shift his mindset, “I had reached a point where I just couldn’t sleep for years. Even sleeping pills didn’t work. I once told my eye doctor there was pressure in my eyes and asked for drops. He said, ‘Mr. Kher, you don’t need eye drops, you need to talk to someone.’ I was diagnosed with depression and given medication, but I kept going back just to talk. One day, he told me something that stayed with me: ‘Stop making stories. The problem is the stories you tell yourself. Maybe the other person is happy—you’re just creating a false narrative in your head.’ That one line changed a lot for me. Even today, I remind myself—stop making stories.”

By Reyansh Ahuja, 16

₹5,000 crore in five months. That’s not just a comeback; it’s a blockbuster revolution. Indian cinema in 2025 isn’t coasting on nostalgia; it’s rewriting the rules of the game with every release. This marks a 27% year-on-year jump, fueled by the massive success of films like Chhaava (₹807.40 crore), Raid 2 (₹237.39 crore), and Sikandar (₹211.34 crore). Several converging factors are contributing to this box office boom, reshaping the dynamics of the Indian film market.

Higher Ticket Prices

The rise in average ticket prices is a major contributor to increased revenues. Premium viewing experiences such as IMAX, 4DX, and recliner ticket seats are becoming increasingly popular, especially for big-budget blockbusters. Audiences are willing to pay more for enhanced sound, visuals, and comfort, pushing up per capita spend per viewer.

Festive & Holiday Releases

Strategic release timing plays a vital role. Distributors are increasingly aligning major film launches with festivals, long weekends, and national holidays. This approach maximises audience turnout, making the cinema a go-to entertainment option during special occasions. Good Friday brought the release of Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari, while Eid 2025 saw one of the biggest openings of the year- Sikandar, starring Salman Khan, which contributed significantly to the ₹5,000 crore milestone
Blockbusters & Franchises

Big-budget sequels and action-packed franchises are drawing massive crowds. Films like Raid 2 and Sikandar benefited from pre-existing fanbases and franchise loyalty, leading to strong opening weekends and sustained collections. These tentpole releases serve as revenue anchors each quarter.

Regional Cinema Boom

While South Indian cinema is a powerhouse, Bollywood continues to drive box office revenue. Cross-border partnerships and government incentives are also being explored to further expand the global influence of Indian cinema. Films from Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada industries, often released with dubbed versions in Hindi and other languages, are attracting diverse audiences across India.

Cinema Advertising Growth

Brands are increasingly investing in cinema advertising, seeing it as a premium, captive medium. From pre-roll ads to branded experiences in lobbies and food courts, cinema is becoming a high-impact advertising arena. This growth in ad revenue directly boosts overall box office income.

Strong Marketing & OTT Synergy

Promotional strategies in 2025 are more aggressive and widespread than ever. Film campaigns dominate digital platforms, from teaser drops and trailer trends to viral challenges and influencer tie-ins. These efforts often begin months in advance, building steady buzz leading up to release. At the same time, collaborations with OTT platforms have heightened anticipation. Audiences are increasingly driven to watch films in theatres before they arrive on streaming, with fear of missing out becoming a key box office driver. This combination of digital-first marketing and strategic OTT timing has created a loop of hype and urgency that boosts theatrical turnout.

Conclusion

India’s box office in 2025 isn’t just booming, it’s evolving. With ₹5,000 crore already in the bag in just five months, the industry is riding a wave powered by smarter release strategies, high-impact franchises, regional crossover hits, and marketing that meets audiences where they are. Theatres are no longer just venues, they’re becoming event spaces, cultural moments, and extensions of digital fandom. As the year progresses, and with heavyweights like War 2 still to come, the ₹10,000 crore mark may not just be a milestone, it could be the new baseline. One thing’s clear: Indian cinema isn’t just back, it’s breaking the script.

Rekha Bhardwaj, renowned singer to perform at a Live Concert -’Jazbaa: Dilon Ko Dilon Se Jodne Ka’ at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi on 27th July 2025

New Delhi, July 17, 2025: Delhi is all set to ready for an unforgettable evening as Rekha Bhardwaj, A renowned Singer, takes the stage at Jazbaa: Dilon Ko Dilon Se Jodne Ka, a Musical Night organised by Rudraksha Communication on 27th July 2025 at Plenary Hall, Bharat Mandapam , New Delhi is dedicated to “India’s Womanhood- Leading with grace power and purpose . Rekha Bhardwaj is bringing her soulful magic to Delhi, a heart of India . This magical night promises soulful melodies, timeless classics, and electrifying performances that will captivate your heart.Rekha Bhardwaj is more than an artist—She’s an emotion, a celebration of music that connects souls and creates lasting memories. Don’t miss this extraordinary celebration of love and music. Join us for a night that will stay with you forever.

Vivek Kaushik Founder director of Rudraksha Communication and Zazbaa Live concert Progamm said, ‘Jazbaa’ is a celebrated cultural initiative by Rudraksha Communication that has hosted legendary voices like Jagjit Singh, Pankaj Udhas, Hansraj Hans, and the Wadali Brothers. Known for curating timeless musical experiences rooted in poetry and soul, ‘Jazbaa’ has become a stage where tradition meets emotion. With Rekha Bhardwaj gracing this edition, the series carries forward its rich legacy — connecting eras, reviving the essence of ghazal, and speaking to the spirit of a new generation. This concert isn’t just an event; it’s the continuation of a musical journey that honors the past while embracing the present.’

Excited about his performance in Delhi, Rekha Bhardwaj in a video message said, ” I am coming to increase your heartbeat at Jazbaa:Dilon ko Dilon Se Jodne Ka in heart of India – Dil walon Ki Dilli ,a land of art ,music and singing Delhi on 27th July 2025 .Known for her unmatched voice and emotional depth, Rekha will perform some of her most beloved tracks. The concert promises an unforgettable evening of Sufi, classical and Bollywood hits .

A Sufi, Bollywood, and Ghazal singer, Rekha Bhardwaj, a National Award Winning Singer & Bollywood star, has become known throughout the industry for her unique voice which has seen her contribute to the soundtracks of numerous films. Having made her singing Kebut in 1997, Bhardwaj has collaborated with some of the biggest names in Bollywood music. Creating some of the most memorable and famous songs in recent history Tere Ishq Mein, Kabira, and Namak along with a special bandish in Raag Puriya. Bhardwaj, whose career in music was inspired from a young age, made her debut in 1997’s ‘Chachi 420’. The song. ‘Ek Who Din Bhi’, from the movie was the first time she worked with Vishal Bhardwaj, who is a well-respected Music Director in the industry. Her collaboration with Rahman saw her win the Filmfare Award for Best Female. Playback Singer for her song ‘Sasural Genda Phool’, which was featured on ‘Delhi-6″. The accolades continued to come in for Bhardwaj, with the National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer coming in 2010 for her work on ‘Ishqiya’, before again winning a Filmfare Award for 7 Khoon Maaf’s song “Darling”. She earned another nomination for the same award in 2013 for ‘Dedh Ishqiya, following a nomination for the Best Original Soundtrack at the Hum Awards for Humnasheen.

Join us for an evening to celebrate the womanhood of new India where everything feels less, creating an atmosphere of pure musical euphoria

What : Jazbaa: Dilon ko Dilon Se Jodne Ka , A live concert by renowned singer Rekha Bhardaj ” Organised by Rudraksha Communication

When: Sunday , 27th July 2025, 7:00 PM onwards

Where: Plenary Hall, Bharat Mandapam , New Delhi

Nearest Metro Station : Supreme Court Metro Station

New Delhi, July 17, 2025: Renowned Kathak dancer Shivani Varma, known for her performances at major cultural events such as Lollapalooza (Mumbai), Mahakumbh (Prayagraj) and Jahan-e-Khusrau (New Delhi), delivered a spell-binding performance at Sawan ki Hunar Gaatha, a collaborative presentation by NGO Swadha and fashion label Asha Gautam, centred around the theme of Varsha Ritu. Her soulful appearance brought classical dance to the ramp, adding a lyrical layer of storytelling to the evening’s celebration of craft, culture, and womanhood.

At this glittering event, Shivani Varma performed to Ae Ri Sakhi More Piya Ghar Aaye, a timeless composition by the iconic Sufi poet Amir Khusrau. In an inspired blend of classical movement and improvisational energy, she portrayed the emotional journey of Sawan, the rain-drenched yet yearning season, using Kathak to capture its moods of longing, celebration and union. The performance unfolded as a seamless extension of the evening’s monsoon-inspired theme, echoing the soulful notes of singer Vidya Shah, whose vocal prelude set the tone for the showcase.

Reflecting on the evening, Shivani Varma said, “The theme of Sawan deeply resonated with my artistic expression, allowing my performance to flow in seamless dialogue with the spirit of the show. I wove the fabric of the monsoon, with its pangs of separation and anticipation of union, into a spontaneous offering to the blissful Varsha ritu. It was also a tribute to the timeless Sufi poetry of Amir Khusrau and the evocative language of Kathak, which, to me, are a match made in heaven. I continue to explore this genre through a deeply intimate and ever-evolving journey.”

Sawan ki Hunar Gaatha was a fashion and cultural showcase by Asha Gautam in collaboration with Swadha, a women-led organisation committed to the welfare of the girl child. The event featured 68 handcrafted ensembles, a magnificent collection made with over 1,00,000 hours of artisanal mastery, and brought together luminaries from the world of fashion, philanthropy, and policy. From the intricate weaves of Paithani and Banarasi to the grandeur of Zardozi and Bandhani, the showcase reimagined Indian textile heritage through both classic and contemporary silhouettes. The evening culminated in a powerful walk by Swadha women in Asha Gautam creations, celebrating strength, identity, and the enduring power of Indian craft.

The first drop of rain doesn’t just fall. It whispers stories, triggers memories, and for some, brings a burst of joy that even sunshine can’t match. For actress Eshaa Pathak, who plays the lead role of Gauri in Sun Neo’s Rishto Se Bandhi Gauri, this season brings back a wave of childhood happiness and a wish she still holds close to her heart.

Eshaa shared, “Monsoon is honestly my favourite season. Everything looks so fresh and green, and I love how the plants bloom during this time. That smell of wet mitti after the first rain just hits differently. It lifts my mood instantly. And rainy days for me are never complete without hot chai, bhajiyas and roasted bhutta. It’s a must.”

Remembering her childhood, she added, “I have so many sweet memories from back home. Every time it rained, I would run to the terrace, play my favourite songs and dance like nobody was watching. It made me so happy. Those were the best moments.”

While she’s enjoying her journey as Gauri, the monsoon also reminds her of a long-time on-screen dream. “I’ve always wanted to do a rain dance scene like Tip Tip Barsa Pani. There’s just something about it. The rain, the music, the vibe. It’s bold but so iconic. Every time it rains, that song starts playing in my head. If I ever get a chance to shoot something like that, I’m totally ready. Saree, rain, dance. I’m all in.”

Talking about balancing her love for the season with her work, she said, “Monsoon mornings are the hardest because it’s so cozy and chilly. You just want to stay in bed a little longer. But I genuinely love what I do, so I get up and head to set with a smile. The vibe on the Rishto Se Bandhi Gauri set is so much fun. I actually feel FOMO if I’m not there.”

Rishto Se Bandhi Gauri follows the story of a kind-hearted girl named Gauri, whose faith and strength guide her through life’s toughest challenges. When she is faced with an unwanted marriage, she doesn’t give up. She finds her voice in a new home and begins to shape her own destiny. Watch Rishto Se Bandhi Gauri every night at 8:30 PM, only on Sun Neo.

Mumbai, India – July 16, 2025: Second-generation entrepreneur Keshav Maheshwari, scion of one of India’s most respected academic coaching empires, the ALLEN Career Institute, launches his podcast series with a bold message: legacy doesn’t come with instructions.

“Being born into a business family doesn’t mean you’re born with business sense,” Keshav says. “There’s no manual just Sunday meetings about cash flows and the quiet pressure of expectations.”

Set against the backdrop of a high-stakes education sector where India’s offline and hybrid test-prep market is projected to reach ₹75,000 crore (approx. $9 billion) by 2026, according to RedSeer Consulting-Keshav offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at what it truly means to grow up within an institution that prepares millions for exams, while quietly preparing oneself for leadership.

This isn’t just another founder origin story it’s a generational rethink. Through personal anecdotes and candid reflection, Keshav explores themes of legacy, identity, and the myth of being “born ready” for business, striking a powerful chord with family-run enterprises across sectors.

New Delhi, India – Cosy Box Delhi is set to host an unforgettable night as globally celebrated Afro-house artist Hyenah takes over the decks on Friday, July 18. With his signature blend of deep grooves, tribal percussion, and emotionally charged rhythms, Hyenah brings a fresh energy to the city’s vibrant music scene.

Mysterious and masked, Hyenah has become one of the most respected names in Afro-house – a genre rooted in African musical traditions, reimagined through the pulse of modern electronic music. His acclaimed tracks such as “The Wish,” “Rain Queen,” and “Soak It” have become anthems on dance floors worldwide, earning him praise from tastemakers like Black Coffee and a global fan base that stretches from Berlin to Cape Town.

Set against the backdrop of Cosy Box Delhi’s refined interiors and effortlessly cool ambience, the night promises a seamless fusion of sound, space, and energy. Known for its elevated food and drink offerings, dynamic lighting, and cosmopolitan crowd, Cosy Box Delhi offers the ideal setting for a performance that’s all about movement, emotion, and deep connection.

Whether you’re a longtime lover of Afro-house or just ready for something different, this is a night designed to move both body and soul.

Event Details:
Date: Friday, July 18, 2025
Time: 9 PM onwards
Venue: Cosy Box Delhi, One Golden Mile

Special Ops 2 Cast Visits Rashtrapati Bhavan — A Landmark That Defines Power, Process, and Protocol

New Delhi, July 15th, 2025 — As Special Ops 2 gears up for release, its core team — actor Kay Kay Menon, Parmeet Sethi, Karan Tacker and director Shivam Nair — made their way to one of Delhi’s most iconic institutions, Rashtrapati Bhavan, where they witnessed the Change of Guard ceremony, a striking display of ceremonial precision and tradition. From its grand architecture to the constitutional weight it carries, Rashtrapati Bhavan isn’t just a building — it’s where power meets protocol echoing the very themes Special Ops 2 navigates: systems, structures, and the inner workings of the Indian state.

Kay Kay Menon, who reprises his role as the formidable intelligence officer Himmat Singh, said, “As someone who plays a character deeply involved in the system, it was surreal to be present at one of the most important places in India. The ceremony, the energy, the space — it was an experience unlike any & it all felt very real and aligned with the world of Special Ops 2.”

Karan Tacker, who plays the field agent Farooq Ali, added, “Delhi has always been a very special location for me because it’s where I shot my younger portions for Special Ops for the first time. Returning here for this extremely prestigious ceremony was an absolutely surreal experience. The grandeur, discipline, and sheer energy of the moment gave us all goosebumps.”

Director Shivam Nair shared, “Rashtrapati Bhavan is one of the most iconic symbols of our democracy — where protocol, purpose, and power converge. Witnessing the Change of Guard ceremony was a humbling experience. It served as a reminder of the discipline, order, and tradition that quietly uphold the functioning of our country. As storytellers, such moments offer deep reflection and inspiration.”

Parmeet Sethi spoke with awe and appreciation, “I’ve visited many places in my life, but there’s something deeply powerful about stepping into Rashtrapati Bhavan. The sense of history, the legacy it carries, and the silent strength it exudes are overwhelming. Being here made me reflect on how much history, tradition, and protocol exist behind the scenes of power. It was fascinating to see it up close.”

While Special Ops 2 takes on missions across the world, it stays rooted in New Delhi — a city full of history, with institutions that shape the country every day!

~ Watch the return of India’s most elite covert team as Special Ops 2 streams exclusively on JioHotstar from July 18th, 2025. ~

July 14, 2025: IMDb’s Popular Indian Celebrities list for this week is led by the cast and crew of titles spanning across action, mythology, romance, and comedy. The first look of the upcoming action thriller Dhurandhar was recently unveiled, which led to director Aditya Dhar securing the 4th spot, with lead actor Ranveer Singh in 7th position. Ramayana also released its first look, and director Nitesh Tiwari secured 5th rank alongside Ranbir Kapoor, who features in 11th position.

Meanwhile, Elnaaz Norouzi who recently took part in The Traitors is ranked 1st as she begins shooting for Masti 4. Madhavan takes 9th position alongside Fatima Sana Shaikh in 10th place as their film Aap Jaisa Koi recently released on OTT, with director Vivek Soni in 13th spot.

The Popular Indian Celebrities feature, available exclusively on the IMDb app for Android and iOS, highlights the top trending Indian entertainers and filmmakers each week. This is based on more than 200 million monthly visits to IMDb worldwide. Entertainment fans can see who is trending every week, follow their favorite entertainers, and discover new breakout talent.