Category Entertainment

Bengaluru, 03 July 2025: After weeks of anticipation, the wait is finally over! Zee Kannada is delighted to bring to its audience one of the most talked-about fiction launches of the year ‘Karna’. Premiering on July 03 at 8 PM, Karna promises to take viewers on a roller-coaster journey of powerful storytelling, compelling characters, and extraordinary performances. The excitement has been building, and now the stage is set for Karna to make a mark as one of Zee Kannada’s prime time shows. Don’t miss it!

Set against the emotional backdrop of family loyalty and societal expectations, Karna introduces viewers to a heartfelt story of a man torn between duty and desire. At the center of this riveting narrative is Dr. Karna, a renowned gynaecologist known for his empathy and unwavering dedication to the underprivileged. Though raised by the noble Rama Krishna Vasishta after being abandoned as a child, Karna has never truly been embraced as a son. Despite the emotional void, he remains loyal to the very family that never fully accepted him. His life takes a dramatic turn when he is forced to choose between two promises.

Bringing this intense and emotional tale to life is a stellar cast led by Kiran Raj, making his much-awaited return to television in a role that showcases strength, vulnerability, and resolve. Joining him is the charming Bhavya Gowda, whose chemistry with Kiran Raj has already captured hearts through the show’s special song and promo — both of which received overwhelming appreciation. Namratha Gowda, a name synonymous with impactful performances, also plays a pivotal role that will challenge the course of Karna’s journey. Veteran actors Nagabharana, Ashok, and Mahalakshmi Vasishta lend gravitas to the narrative, adding layers of emotional depth and intensity to the storyline.

Tune in to Zee Kannada for an unforgettable journey of emotions and choices- Karna, premiering on July 03 at 8 PM, Monday to Friday. Don’t miss it!

Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi Turns 25: Ekta Kapoor, Smriti Irani, and Amar Upadhyay Share Memories of a Timeless Legacy

Some stories don’t just entertain; they become a part of our homes, hearts, and everyday lives. Exactly 25 years ago, India met the Virani family, and television changed forever. Today marks a milestone as Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, the iconic Balaji Telefilms show, completes 25 glorious years since its premiere on July 3, 2000. Conceptualised by Ekta Kapoor, the show not only ruled TRP charts but also redefined primetime television, making the ‘saasbahu’ drama a cultural phenomenon. On this special occasion, Smriti Irani, Amar Upadhyay, and Ekta Kapoor share heartfelt reflections on a show that shaped their journeys and transformed Indian television.

Reflecting on 25 glorious years, Smriti Irani said, “Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi isn’t just a show it’s a shared memory. For those who created it and the millions who embraced it, it was a story of families, faith, and the fabric that binds us across generations. Twentyfive years later, it still lives in our hearts. My gratitude to those who made the journey possible.”

Ekta Kapoor shared, “Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi still lives in every beat of my heart. When we started, we never imagined Tulsi would become family to millions. Even today, people remember the title track, the tears, and the emotions it sparked. This milestone belongs to every writer, actor, crew member, and most of all every viewer who made Kyunki part of their lives. Thank you for turning a story into a legacy, for making Tulsi and the Virani parivaar your own, and for keeping this emotion alive even 25 years later. We didn’t just make a show we created a bond that still feels like home.“

Amar Upadhyay expressed, “Twentyfive years ago, we began a journey that was more than just a show it was a mirror to millions of households, a reflection of traditions, love, trials, and the changing face of Indian families. Being a part of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi wasn’t just a role it was a responsibility, a privilege, and a turning point not just for me, but for everyone who lived and breathed this world with us. It changed our lives, rewrote television history, and connected generations. Even today, its echoes live on in how we see relationships, resilience, and reinvention.”

He further added, “Kyunki… some stories aren’t just watched, they are lived. Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi wasn’t just a show it was an era. A movement. A mirror to Indian families. And being Mihir meant becoming a part of people’s daily routines, their emotions, their dinner conversations. Even today, when someone calls me ‘Mihir,’ there’s a warmth and familiarity in it like a longlost family member greeting you after years. That’s the kind of love you can’t manufacture it can only be lived.“

With unforgettable characters, powerful emotions, and twists that became national talking points, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi became more than just a daily soap it became a ritual. Under Ekta Kapoor’s leadership, Balaji Telefilms redefined storytelling and connected with millions across the country. As nostalgia takes over and memories of Shantiniketan resurface, whispers of the show’s return grow stronger. But will the entire Virani family be back? That question remains a mystery.

July 7, 2025: Every actor deserves to be recognized for the stories they bring to life — and at the Mid-Day Showbiz Icons Awards 2025, three exceptional performers were celebrated for their remarkable contributions to screen. Riddhi Dogra, Amol Parashar, and Priyanka Chahar Choudhary were honoured for performances that moved audiences and earned critical acclaim.

Riddhi Dogra won the title of Best Actor – Female (Critics) for her impactful role in The Sabarmati Report. As senior anchor Manika Rajpurohit, Riddhi delivered a performance that was restrained, powerful, and deeply emotional. Sharing her appreciation on Instagram, she wrote: Thank you for the honor. Thank you for the encouragement. Thank you for the recognition. Thank you team for the faith.” She credited Ektaa R Kapoor, Shobha Kapoor, and the teams at Balaji Telefilms and ALT Balaji Motion Pictures for their unwavering support.

Released in November 2024, The Sabarmati Report — based on the 2002 Godhra train incident — sparked national conversation. While initially met with mixed reviews, the film gained momentum through word-of-mouth and Riddhi’s performance was consistently highlighted for its grace and conviction.

Amol Parashar was named Iconic Breakthrough Star of the Year for his performance in Kull and Gram Chikitsalaya. His portrayal of Abhimanyu Raisinggh in Kull: The Legacy of the Raisingghs was layered and compelling, earning him praise across both critics and viewers. Taking to social media, Amol celebrated with the words: “We have a co-passenger in the lift tonight!”

Kull, which premiered on JioHotstar in May 2025, is a gripping family thriller directed by Sahir Raza and created by Ektaa and Shobha Kapoor. The series has been applauded for its storytelling, visual richness, and ensemble cast, with Amol’s role standing out as a breakout performance.

Priyanka Chahar Choudhary was honoured as the Outstanding Performer of the Year for her standout act in Dus June Ki Raat. Her portrayal of Puppy was refreshing, quirky, and heartfelt — quickly becoming a fan favourite. The crime drama, which streamed on JioHotstar, was created by Ektaa Kapoor and directed by Tabrez Khan. Sharing her gratitude, Priyanka posted: “Thank you for the honor @middayindia. And thank you to the incredible team of Dus June Ki Raat – this recognition belongs to all of us!”

Dus June Ki Raat, created by Ektaa Kapoor and directed by Tabrez Khan, premiered on JioHotstar and quickly found a loyal fanbase. Starring alongside Tusshar Kapoor, Priyanka’s performance brought a unique charm to the screen, making Puppy one of the most memorable characters of the series.

All three winning performances — from The Sabarmati Report, Kull, and Dus June Ki Raat — are backed by Balaji, a trailblazer in Indian entertainment known for pushing the envelope with bold storytelling and impactful characters. These recognitions not only celebrate talent but also reaffirm Balaji’s commitment to content that resonates with today’s audiences.

Chennai, 1st July 2025: Zee Tamil, one of the most beloved channels among Tamil audiences across the globe, has released a cute and engaging AI video on World Social Media Day. Leveraging its strong digital presence and connection with its social media community, the channel created this first-of-its-kind tribute to its popular shows with ‘Happy Social Media Day’ video, showcasing a creative and colourful celebration of social media.

Zee Tamil’s Social Media Day video celebrating its characters takes viewers on a lively journey through a digital galaxy. The video sees the channel’s most loved fiction and non-fiction characters come together in a vibrant celebration, dancing, trending, and lighting up the screen like a festival of joy. Beautifully crafted with vibrant animation, catchy music, and thoughtful lyrics, the video stands out not just for its creative concept, but also for its high-quality execution.

Happy Social Media Day video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3eMvKJjkL8c

Blending storytelling with technology, the video features AI-animated avatars of iconic characters from shows such as Anna, Karthigai Deepam, Sandhya Ragam, Valliyin Selvan, Ayali, Maari, Getti Melam and popular non-fiction shows such as Samayal Express, Dance Jodi Dance, and Sa Re Ga Ma Pa. Since its release, the ‘Happy Social Media Day’ video has been going viral on social media, with fans pouring in their love, sharing it widely, and leaving positive comments about the creative execution and nostalgic value of seeing their favourite characters in a new avatar. This digital tribute is Zee Tamil’s way of celebrating its growing online community and showing how content continues to evolve with time.

It is also available on Zee Tamil’s official Instagram handle (@zeetamizh), inviting fans to be part of the celebration and experience their favourite shows in a whole new light.

Legendary filmmaker, painter, and cultural connoisseur Muzaffar Ali sits down for a rare, heartfelt conversation with Filmfare Editor-in-Chief Jitesh Pillai in the latest episode of In The Ring With Filmfare, now streaming on Filmfare’s YouTube channel. Celebrated for his poetic visual language and a worldview rooted in cultural synthesis, Muzaffar Ali takes us through the inspirations, philosophies, and creative forces that have shaped his multifaceted journey.

His artistic legacy spans far beyond the silver screen — while he gifted Indian cinema timeless gems like Gaman, Umrao Jaan, Anjuman, Zooni, and Jaanisaar, his contributions also include the revival of traditional crafts, textiles, and the curation of the iconic Sufi music festival Jahan-e-Khusrau. As the driving force behind the Rumi Foundation, Ali continues to weave together cinema, design, music, and cultural heritage into a seamless tapestry of artistic expression.

Revisiting the early chapters of his journey, Ali reflects, “I have tried to document my autobiography Zikar, but I would like to go a little further back to Calcutta. And then I moved to Calcutta from Aligarh, which is a City of Poetry, where I had gone to study science. When I was in Calcutta, I worked in an advertising group, and Mr. Ray used to be our director, so I used to watch him very carefully at the agency where I was. He was basically sketching and detailing his films, and that’s when I realized, why don’t I? My initial journey started from then.”

He also recalled his enriching tenure at Air India, during the time he was making Gaman, “When I was making Gaman, I was involved in Air India, the Air India job was very elevating for me. It gave me the freedom to promote art, to buy art, to send artists abroad. All the funny things I could do at that time. I also made films.”

Opening about his creative process while craftingUmrao Jaan and his collaboration with Rekha, he stated, “I think once Rekha agreed, it was very surprising to me that she agreed without any conditions. Maybe she saw beyond the moments, she could see more than we could. Then, from there, working backwards to prepare the whole thing was a big thing for her. The preparation was something else, she was the poetess in the film and the poetess of pain, the poetess of optimism, and inevitable spirits.”

Ali also addressed the frequent labeling of his films as “Muslim Social,” offering a clarion call for cultural unity, “I don’t like the word ‘Muslim Social’. I think it is all cultural expression; we are part of the same culture. In Umrao Jaan, there was nothing written that only Muslims can come, and Hindus can’t. The entire culture is called the Ganga-Jamuna culture. Milne ka, Judne ka, Mohabbat ka. Do not split it. Umrao Jaan started from Brahma Vishnu Mahesh as the taalim guru. There was no split culture; it is always a blending of culture, concepts, words, and thoughts. I think aesthetic detailing is missing in India.”

Discussing the change in today’s film marketing, he expressed his views, “Gaman is still alive. I am doing the art of marketing. If you know the art of marketing, you can market something that is nothing. You can market anything in terms of experience. What did not work out, I could not help. Now, people are using stardom, tested tools, etc. We use art for marketing.”

Giving advice to his younger self, he shared, “I would teach him patience, the importance of being rooted, deep humanism, and a keen eye for aesthetics. Discipline in one’s craft always pays off. The effort people put into their work shapes not just the craft but also their understanding of its impact. That is a huge space for learning.”

Lastly, sharing bits on being a father to three kids including filmmaker Shaad Ali, he says, “My kids have always had one complaint — that I didn’t give them enough time. You believe you’re giving them the best, but sometimes it turns out to be the worst. Still, nothing is ever so bad that it doesn’t deserve forgiveness. Murad’s inspiration comes from poetry — I believe he got that from me. Sama is following my journey of textiles. And Shaad has an amazing sense of music and humour.”

Mumbai, June 30, 2025: In a notable moment for the Indian digital entertainment industry, Amit Bhadana — India’s first ever individual YouTuber to cross 20 million subscribers — is now signed with Saregama in a multi-vertical deal as an exclusive artiste.

This exclusive partnership marks a significant turning point in Bhadana’s revolutionary journey, as he will be making his theatrical debut with a feature film produced and released under the Saregama banner. With this project, he becomes the first Indian YouTuber to sign a film as lead actor, director, and writer.

As part of the collaboration:

• A feature film marking Amit’s theatrical debut—as lead actor, director, and writer—is currently in development under the Saregama banner, marking a bold leap from digital screens to the cinematic stage.
• A high-energy music video is already in production under the label, combining Amit’s signature storytelling with Saregama’s musical legacy.
• Amit is now exclusively represented by Saregama for all live shows and branded content partnerships, paving the way for large-scale, cross-platform experiences across the country.

Amit Bhadana, with a massive fan-base across India, rose to fame in 2017 for his rooted, relatable content that stood out against a wave of western-inspired creators. Since then, he’s amassed over 24 million YouTube subscribers and 2.5 billion views, making him one of the most followed creators in the country. His content, celebrated for its family-friendly humor, sharp observations, and deep emotional undercurrents, has consistently resonated with audiences across age groups and geographies.

From award-winning tributes including Sipahi, the SSC web series and the Parichay music video to viral hits like Behan Bhai Ki School Life, Amit has successfully merged entertainment with authenticity—now set to bring the same magic to the big screen.

Speaking on the partnership, Amit Bhadana said, “This is not just a personal milestone but a moment for every creator out there who started with a phone and a dream. To have a legacy brand like Saregama believe in my storytelling across films, music, and live—this is the beginning of an exciting new chapter.”

Vikram Mehra, Managing Director, Saregama commented, “At Saregama, we’ve always seen ourselves as custodians of India’s entertainment legacy—while constantly evolving with the times. Partnering with creators like Amit, who are culturally rooted and connect effortlessly with today’s audiences, is a natural extension of that promise. Together, we aim to build stories and experiences that are familiar, fresh, and truly reflective of India’s evolving storytelling spirit.”

With this association, Amit Bhadana not only breaks new ground for creators but also signals the convergence of India’s booming digital creator economy with its traditional entertainment powerhouses.

Mumbai- India, 30 June 2025: Amazon’s free streaming service, Amazon MX Player, is buzzing with praise for its refreshing new coming-of-age series, Gamerlog, a heartfelt story set against the energetic backdrop of India’s booming esports scene. With its youthful lens and sharp humour, the series captures the trials and triumphs of a ragtag team of gamers chasing glory, identity, and connection—all while surviving life inside a chaotic gaming bootcamp in Mumbai. At the heart of the story is 17-year-old Raghu, a runaway from Surat, trying to carve his place in the world of competitive gaming. With one mission—to take down reigning champions Wolfclan, Raghu joins a team of misfits and discovers that friendship, failure, and firepower go hand-in-hand. Directed by Arya Deo and produced by Abhinay Deo, Gamerlog boasts a powerhouse cast featuring Darsheel Safary, Anjali Sivaraman, Chinmay Chandraunshuh, Kunal Bhan, Chetan Dhawan, Shubroy Chowdhury, and Akash Menon in pivotal roles.

Reflecting on the series and his character Raghu, Darsheel Safary shared, “Passion has always been my compass. Whenever I’ve felt lost or overwhelmed, it’s that hunger to grow that’s guided me. Raghu’s journey in Gamerlog, his impulsive choices, and his hunger to prove himself instantly took me right back to the time I chose to step away from acting after school. I told everyone I wanted to live my college life, but deep down, I knew I wanted to hone my craft and grow as an actor.”

Opening up about his transformative years, he added, “Theatre changed everything for me, doing plays, improvising, feeling emotions in real time in front of live audiences. I worked with groups like NCPA and Out of the Box, performing across India, living those emotions on stage—it redefined storytelling for me. By the time I returned to the screen post-pandemic, I wasn’t the same person anymore. It’s easy to lose your footing when you grow up in the spotlight. But stories like Raghu’s remind me of why I started, and why I still love doing this. Gamerlog is truly a passion project made with love and honesty, and I hope it resonates with both gamers and anyone chasing something bigger than themselves.”

Gamerlog is now available for free exclusively on Amazon MX Player, available through its apps on mobile, Amazon’s shopping app, Prime Video, Fire TV, and Connected TVs.

India, 30th June 2025 – Due to an overwhelming and unprecedented public demand, EVA Live is thrilled to announce a second, highly anticipated concert for multi-Grammy award-winning music icon Enrique Iglesias in Mumbai, India. Following a record-breaking sell-out of the first show within just a few hours, this newly added performance will take place on Wednesday, 29th October 2025, at the MMRDA Grounds, BKC.

The initial concert, scheduled for Thursday, 30th October 2025, at MMRDA Grounds, BKC witnessed an extraordinary and historic response from fans across the subcontinent, with all tickets being completely allocated within mere hours of going on sale. This monumental sell-out underscores Enrique Iglesias’s enduring popularity and the fervent passion of his Indian fanbase, welcoming him back after a thirteen-year hiatus. Tickets for the show are exclusively available on District App.

“I’ve missed performing in India, the fans there are some of the most loyal and passionate in the world,” says Enrique Iglesias. “Since my first show back in 2004, the love has always been unreal. I can’t wait to get back to Mumbai and bring them this new show.”

Deepak Choudhary, Founder & Managing Director, EVA Live states, “The response to Enrique Iglesias’s first Mumbai show has been nothing short of phenomenal and truly historic. The sheer speed at which tickets were snapped up is a testament to his immense and unwavering appeal in India, confirming the unparalleled excitement for his return. We are incredibly excited to be able to accommodate more of his devoted fans by adding a second date, ensuring that even more individuals have the opportunity to experience what promises to be an unforgettable, world-class musical spectacle.”

With the addition of this second date, the two concerts in Mumbai are projected to welcome a staggering total footfall of over 50,000 attendees, solidifying Enrique Iglesias’s return to India as one of the most significant and anticipated musical events of the decade.

This newly announced performance on 29th October 2025, provides an opportunity for the scores of fans who were unable to secure tickets for the initial date to witness one of pop music’s most influential singer-songwriters of our current times live.

Exclusive presale for Mastercard cardholders will begin from Sunday 29th June 12PM IST to 4PM IST on District App. Following the pre-sale, general ticket sales will begin Sunday on 29th June at 5PM IST. Mastercard cardholders can look forward to exclusive priceless experiences with event tickets, city experiences and artist moments.

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has extended his warm support to the upcoming short film Echoes of Us, which stars Iulia Vantur, Deepak Tijori, and Alessandra Whelan Merediz.

Soon after the teaser dropped, Salman took to Instagram Stories to share it with a heartfelt message:
“Best of luck to the team…. @vanturiulia @deepaktijoriteam” — a clear nod of encouragement and admiration for the cast and crew.

Directed by Joe Rajan and produced by Pooja Batra in association with Alliance Media Private Limited, Echoes of Us promises to be a powerful cinematic experience. The short film boasts an international cast and is already creating a stir with its emotional depth and global narrative appeal.

Currently, Echoes of Us is receiving accolades at international film festivals and has already been nominated for several awards, including those in Barcelona and La California.

With Salman Khan’s public endorsement and a wave of festival buzz, Echoes of Us is poised to make a lasting impact. More details about the project are expected to be revealed soon by the makers.

June 28. 2025: Spirituality often finds us when we least expect it, through moments that feel larger than life. For Megha Ray, the lead actress of Sun Neo’s newly launched show Divya Prem: Pyaar Aur Rahasya Ki Kahani, one such moment unfolded on the very first day of the shoot. Megha, who portrays the character of Divya, recently shared a powerful experience that deeply moved her and brought back long-forgotten childhood dreams.

Talking about performing the Tandav in front of Mahadev, Megha said, “On the first day of shooting for Divya Prem: Pyaar Aur Rahasya Ki Kahani, I got the chance to perform the Tandav in front of Mahadev, in a temple. I was so happy when I found out — it instantly brought back a childhood memory. I had always wished to dance in a temple, or in front of Mahadev someday. Dance has always been deeply connected to my soul, and with Mahadev being Nataraj, the cosmic dancer, it all just felt like a divine sign.”

She added, “I don’t know what it is about this show, but I keep receiving signs — one after another. Honestly, I never used to believe in such things, but sometimes life surprises you in the most unexpected ways. It reminds you of the dreams you once had but forgot along the way. Dancing in front of Mahadev was exactly that moment for me.”

Reflecting on the powerful experience, she shared, “When I was dancing, I completely forgot there were cameras. I wasn’t performing — I was experiencing something spiritual. It felt like I had entered another world. And honestly, I couldn’t have asked for a more powerful beginning to this journey. Even now, when I think about it, I still get goosebumps.”

Divya Prem: Pyaar Aur Rahasya Ki Kahani follows the magical journey of Divya, a girl from Ujjain whose life changes after meeting Prem. As love blossoms, hidden secrets from their past begin to unravel. Starring Megha Ray, Suraj Pratap Singh, and Kavita Banerjee, the show airs every night at 8:30 PM on Sun Neo.