Mumbai, June 2 (IANS) Actor Kush Jotwani, who is receiving a lot of positive response to his work in the recently released streaming series ‘Knock Knock… Kaun Hai?’, will be seen essaying a pivotal role in the upcoming film ‘Metro… In Dino’.
The film, directed by Anurag Basu, features an ensemble cast of Anupam Kher, Pankaj Tripathi, Konkona Sen Sharma, Aditya Roy Kapur, Sara Ali Khan, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Ali Fazal, and Neena Gupta.Sharing a snippet on how he got finalised as one of the characters in Metro… In Dino, Jotwani said, “When I was shooting for the first schedule of ‘Dil Dosti Dilemma’ in Mumbai I got an intimation regarding a zoom call from Anurag Basu’s production house saying he would like to have a meeting with me regarding the film. Anurag Basu sir in the meeting told me to meet him personally”.The film is an anthology exploring contemporary relationships across metro cities. Jotwani described this initial interaction as “crisp and to the point” highlighting the efficiency and directness of Anurag’s approach.He further mentioned, “Sir made me understand the plot of the story and asked me to make an audition for the part. When I was shooting for the second schedule of ‘Dil Dosti Dilemma’ in Bangalore I received the audition script from the production house. I recorded the audition from my hotel room & shared it instantly. On the last day of the second schedule of DDD, while taking off from Bangalore I got a callback mentioning I have got the part. The shoot was scheduled to begin in the next 4 days”.‘Metro In Dino’ features music by Pritam, and marks another collaboration between the composer and Anurag after 5 years with ‘Ludo’ being their last collaborative venture. Anurag and Pritam first worked together in ‘Gangster’, the film featured chartbuster music though copied from different sources. But, the film marked the start of a long-standing collaboration between the composer and the director.–IANSaa/

Mumbai, June 2 (IANS) Music composer duo Sachin and Jigar recently opened up about their work on “Zara Hatke Zara Bachke,” sharing how they aimed to create songs that transcend age and time.

Reflecting on the soundtrack’s wide appeal, the duo said their goal was to craft melodies that connect emotionally with listeners across generations. As the film completes two years since its release on June 2, music composers Sachin-Jigar reflected on the journey of creating its soundtrack, highlighting how the songs continue to resonate with audiences across generations.Talking about the journey, Sachin-Jigar shared, “We honestly can’t believe it’s already been two years. It still feels so fresh — like we were just in the studio, jamming and figuring out the vibe of each track. We had such a great time bringing it to life. From the start, we just wanted to make music that people could vibe with — something fun, real, and relatable for every generation. The love this album has received, and is still receiving, is incredible. It really reminds us why we do what we do. We’re so grateful and just hope these songs keep spreading joy in people’s lives.”From the soothing strains of ‘Phir Aur Kya Chahiye,’ which quickly became a modern love anthem, to the romantic charm of ‘Tere Vaaste,’ now a wedding favourite, the film’s soundtrack delivered a song for every mood. ‘Baby Tujhe Paap Lagega’ brought back a dose of nostalgic desi energy, while the emotional depth of ‘Saanjha’ left a lasting impression.“Zara Hatke Zara Bachke,” directed by Laxman Utekar, starred Vicky Kaushal and Sara Ali Khan as a small-town married couple who want to get a house of their own. The romantic comedy was released in theatres on 2 June 2023. The film follows the journey of Kapil and Somya, a middle-class married couple from Indore who dream of owning a home. Their quest leads them to explore the possibilities offered by the Indian government’s Awas Yojna scheme.The music duo Sachin and Jigar is next working on the soundtrack for the upcoming film “Param Sundari.”–IANSps/

Chennai, June 2 (IANS) Director Neeraja Kona’s upcoming romantic drama, ‘Telusu Kada’, featuring actors Siddu…

Mumbai, June 2 (IANS) On the occasion of celebrated filmmaker Mani Ratnam’s birthday, actress Manisha Koirala took a moment to express her heartfelt gratitude. Reflecting on her journey in cinema, she credited Ratnam for giving her some of the most brilliant roles of her career, which continue to resonate with audiences to this day. Taking to her Instagram handle, she reposted a fan club’s post compiling her scenes from Mani Ratnam’s movies and also shared a sweet photo of Manisha with the filmmaker. Resharing a fan’s post, the ‘Mann’ actress wrote, “Thanku @maniratnam.talkies @suhasinihasan for giving me brilliant roles n cinema that would eventually be alive long after I m gone..huge thank you sir.”Manisha also reposted a fan club’s post that reads, “Happy birthday to the legendary Guru Mani Ratnam On your special day, we celebrate not just a master filmmaker, but a weaver of emotions, a painter of souls. Your stories seep into our hearts, your characters breathe life into ours. With every frame, you whisper truths that echo through eternity. May your birthday be as vibrant as your visions, and may your art continue to touch hearts, ignite minds, and inspire generations to come!.”The filmmaker and actress collaborated on two notable films: “Bombay” (1995) and “Dil Se” (1998).Mani Ratnam celebrated his 69th birthday on June 2, 2025, drawing warm greetings from the film fraternity. Among the many wishes, the most touching came from his longtime friend and frequent collaborator, actor Kamal Haasan.Sharing their candid monochrome picture, Haasan wrote, “Happy Birthday, Mani Ratnam. From Nayakan to Thug Life, we’ve journeyed through time together — as colleagues, family, co-dreamers, and above all, as lifelong students of cinema. Through every chapter, your presence has been a source of strength — a mind I turn to in moments of doubt, and a soul deeply attuned to the language of film like few others.”The South superstar added, “May your stories keep unfolding, for with every frame, your vision brings depth, beauty, and meaning to cinema. Forever your friend, Kamal Haasan.”–IANSps/

Mumbai, June 2 (IANS) Actress Sonakshi Sinha turned 38 on June 2, and her husband, Zaheer Iqbal, along with close friends, ensured it was a birthday to remember.

On Monday, the ‘Dabangg’ actress took to her Instagram handle to share the glimpses from the celebrations. In the sweet clip, Zaheer Iqbal is seen sitting on Sonakshi’s lap as a group of friends, including Huma Qureshi, clap and sing ‘Happy Birthday’ to the actress. Sonakshi is seen laughing out loud throughout the moment, which ends with Zaheer planting a sweet kiss on her cheek. Sharing this heartwarming glimpse from the celebration, the ‘Akira’ actress wrote, “Happy burrrdayyy to me Blessed with friends who write happy birthday SONU instead of Sona on my birthday cake… can’t ask for more.”Sonakshi’s father and veteran actor Shatrughan Sinha took to his X handle to pen a sweet birthday wish. He also shared unseen childhood pictures of the actress. He wrote, “Wishing our amazing, adorable & wonderful daughter Sonakshi a fabulous day. May you find happiness, joy, love, and laughter surrounded by family & loved ones. May your day be as special as you are. Happy Birthday.”The post features a young Sonakshi Sinha sitting on her father Shatrughan Sinha’s lap, alongside her elder twin brothers, Luv and Kush.Meanwhile, Sonakshi Sinha began her film career in 2010 with the blockbuster “Dabangg,” where she starred opposite Salman Khan. Over the years, she went on to feature in several successful films like “Son of Sardaar,” “Dabangg 2,” “Akira,” “Rowdy Rathore,” Kalank, and “Double XL,” among others. She will next be seen in the upcoming project “Nikita Roy.” The psychological thriller also stars Arjun Rampal, Paresh Rawal, and Suhail Nayyar. The film is directed by Sonakshi’s brother, Kussh S. Sinha, and produced by Nickky Bhagnani and Viicky Bhagnani.On the personal front, Sonakshi tied the knot with longtime partner Zaheer Iqbal on June 23, 2024. The couple, who were in a relationship for seven years, opted for a low-key registered wedding, followed by a lavish reception in Mumbai.–IANSps/

Chennai, June 2 (IANS) Shocked by the sudden demise of director Vikram Sugumaran, in whose film ‘Madhayaanai Kootam’ she played a pivotal role, actress Viji Chandrasekar on Monday appealed to people, asking them not to overwork or take stress upon themselves.
On getting to know about the untimely demise of director Vikram Sugumaran, actress Viji Chandrasekar issued a video statement in which she said, ” Vikram Sugumaran’s demise comes as a big shock. I have acted in his film ‘Madhayaanai Kootam’. It was a film that fetched me a lot of fame. He was a very talented director.”Stating that the passionate director had called her two months ago to say that he was to start his next film in Tamil month of Thai, Viji Chandrasekhar said the director had sounded very excited that he was bringing a very good script.”I can’t comprehend what is happening to everyone. People who are there today aren’t there tomorrow,” said the actress, who was still clearly in a state of shock.”I express my deepest sympathies to all his family members and friends in the film fraternity. I still cannot believe,” she said.The actress then made an appeal to the people. She said, ” I wish to say only one thing. I’ve realised recently that only those who are working day and night, taking extreme stress on to themselves are losing their lives in this sudden fashion. All of you look after your health. I am feeling very scared. You all know what the reasons for stress are. If you avoid them and give importance to your health, such an end will not happen. It’s a big loss to the film industry. Vikram Sugumaran had a lot of dreams. He would talk a lot to me. He would discuss all his scripts with me. Now all that has become meaningless. Deepest condolences,” she said.Filmmaker Vikram Sugumaran, best known for his critically acclaimed directorial debut ‘Madha Yaanai Kootam’, passed away on Monday in Chennai following a cardiac arrest. He was 47.Sugumaran was on his way back from Madurai after narrating a new script to a producer when he experienced severe chest pain. Though he was rushed to a nearby hospital, doctors were unable to resuscitate him.Sugumaran began his film career as an assistant to legendary director Balu Mahendra between 1999 and 2000. He later made a mark with ‘Madha Yaanai Kootam’, a gritty rural drama lauded for its raw storytelling and social commentary. His most recent directorial venture was ‘Raavana Kottam’, starring Shanthnu Bhagyaraj in the lead role.Paying tribute to the late director, Shanthnu took to the social media platform X and wrote: “#Rip dearest brother. I’ve learnt so much from you & will always cherish every moment. Gone too soon. You will be missed. #RIPVikramSugumaran”.–IANSmkr/

Mumbai, June 2 (IANS) Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty Kundra took to social media to show what keeps her going, even on the busiest of days.

As Shetty wrapped up her last working day before heading off on vacation, the actress shared a dose of motivation with her followers. Taking to Instagram, the ‘Dhadkan’ actress posted a fun reel of herself wherein she is seen expressing her excitement through dance and goofy expressions. The hilarious clip begins with Shilpa dressed in a nightsuit, then cuts to her in sporty athleisure, working out in the washroom in a playful, funny style.Sharing this funny reel, the ‘Hungama 2’ actress captioned it, “My motivation on the last day of work..just before I leave for my holiday. #HolidayMotivation #VacationMood #VacayMode #MorningMotivation #HypeGirl #Fun #Crazy.”Shilpa Shetty is very active on Instagram, often sharing glimpses of her fitness routine — from intense workout sessions and yoga flows to her light-hearted ‘Sunday Binge’ moments. Notably, the actress also frequently gives shout-outs to her husband Raj Kundra and recently penned a heartfelt note appreciating him for his work on the project ‘The Traitors.’Sharing his posters from Amazon Prime Video India’s latest venture, Shilpa wrote, “Woohoo… can’t wait to watch this one!!! All the best, my Cookie @onlyrajkundra#TheTraitorsOnPrime @primevideoin.”“The Traitors,” India’s adaptation of the widely acclaimed psychological reality format, was officially launched on May 30 in a grand event, with filmmaker Karan Johar confirmed as its host. Raj Kundra grabbed the attention at the trailer launch with his transformation. When questioned about his strategy, Kundra cleverly referenced his past, saying, “Whenever I’ve worn a mask, people have wondered what I’m hiding. That mystery could work in my favour here.” He also humorously added, “Since Karan Johar is hosting, I’m definitely playing my ‘nepo husband’ card!”Set against the majestic Suryagarh Palace in Rajasthan, “The Traitors” also stars Anshula Kapoor, Karan Kundrra, Ashish Vidyarthi, Jannat Zubair, Apoorva, Harsh Gujral, Elnaaz Norouzi, Raftaar, Uorfi Javed, Lakshmi Manchu, Mukesh Chhabra, and several others.–IANSps/

Mumbai, June 2 (IANS) National Award-winning filmmaker Omung Kumar is all set to start shooting for his yet-untitled film in July with Harshvardhan Rane. The director stated that the actor was his first choice as he brings the blend of raw honesty and quiet intensity that the role demands.
“Harshvardhan was my first choice as the lead in the film, he brings a rare blend of raw honesty and quiet intensity that this role demands,” Omung said.The yet-untitled film marks one of Harsh’s most layered roles to date as he will play a deeply internal, gritty character grappling with love, loss, and redemption, set against a high-stakes narrative backdrop. His role required both physical transformation and emotional grounding.The actor has already begun prep with martial arts training, stunt choreography sessions, and immersive character workshops for the role. A recent look test featuring Harsh in his character avatar has reportedly left the team thrilled.“He’s not just playing the character — he is the emotional and physical core of the film. His presence carries both vulnerability and strength, which makes his performance the very soul of the story,” the director added.The film also stars Karan Veer Mehra and Sadia Khateeb.Backed by Zee Studios, complementing the film’s emotional and action-packed narrative has its music by the legendary label SaReGaMa. The music is set to play a key role in amplifying the film’s impact.The film is being mounted on a grand scale by a powerhouse collaboration — Zee Studios presents, A Blue Lotus Pictures and Stark Entertainment productions in association with Innovations India, produced by Omung Kumar, Umesh KR Bansal, Pragati Deshmukh, Himanshu Tiwari, Ajay Singh, Dhananjay Singh, Abhishek Ankur, Captain Rahul Bali, and co-produced by Rahhat Shah Kazmi.Meanwhile, Harshvardhan is busy with “Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat”. The actor on Monday revealed that he will be shooting for the final schedule of next week. He also expressed his excitement about starting his new solo film with National Award-winning director Omung Kumar in July.–IANSdc/

Mumbai, June 2 (IANS) Bollywood actress Sharvari, who has been appointed as the Young Fit India Icon by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, joined hands with the Fit India ‘Sundays on Cycle’ initiative and said that it is a powerful extension to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Fit India Movement initiative.
At the event’s 25th edition, Sharvari was officially appointed as the Young Fit India Icon by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, under the leadership of Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya.“Expressing her excitement at being appointed as the Young Fit India Icon, Sharvari said: “It is an honour to be appointed as the Young Fit India Icon by The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and our Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment; Youth Affairs and Sports – Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya ji.”The actress finds it exciting to be a part of the Sundays on Cycle initiative.“To be a part of this amazing initiative Sundays on Cycle that has been spreading awareness about the need for fitness and environment protection by choosing cycling, is truly exciting.”This is a powerful extension to our Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji’s Fit India Movement initiative and I’m proud to have participated and done my bit,” she added.On the acting front, Sharvari is all set to star in “Alpha” with actress Alia Bhatt. Directed by Shiv Rawail, “Alpha” will mark the seventh film in Yash Raj Films’ expansive spy universe.This universe began with the “Tiger” franchise, starring Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif, starting with “Ek Tha Tiger” and followed by “Tiger Zinda Hai.” The saga continued with “War,” “Pathaan,” and “Tiger 3.” Upcoming films in the franchise include “War 2,” directed by Ayan Mukerji, “Pathaan 2,” and “Tiger vs. Pathaan.The actress was last seen on screen in Vedaa, an action drama directed by Nikkhil Advani and written by Aseem Arora. Inspired by true events, the film is an adaptation of Jeet starrer Bengali film Sultan: The Saviour. The film also stars John Abraham, Abhishek Banerjee, Ashish Vidyarthi, Kumud Mishra, Rajendra Chawla, Tanvi Malhara, Anurag Thakur and Urvashi Dubey.–IANSdc/

Chennai, June 2 (IANS) Stating that director Mani Ratnam’s presence had been a source of strength to him, actor, producer and politician Kamal Haasan on Monday wished his ‘Thug Life’ director a very happy birthday.
Taking to his X timeline to pen a heartfelt birthday greeting, Kamal Haasan wrote, “Happy Birthday, Mani Ratnam. From Nayakan to Thug Life, we’ve journeyed through time together — as colleagues, family, co-dreamers, and above all, as lifelong students of cinema. Through every chapter, your presence has been a source of strength — a mind I turn to in moments of doubt, and a soul deeply attuned to the language of film like few others.”The actor further wrote, “May your stories keep unfolding, for with every frame, your vision brings depth, beauty, and meaning to cinema. Forever your friend, Kamal Haasan.”Interestingly, Mani Ratnam and Kamal Haasan have come together for their upcoming film ‘Thug Life’ after almost 38 years.The film, which has triggered huge expectations among fans and film buffs, is scheduled to hit screens on June 5.Apart from Kamal Haasan, the film features Silambarasan, Trisha, Joju George, Ashok Selvan and Abhirami in pivotal roles.Kamal Haasan plays a character called Rangaraya Sakthivel Naickan in this film, which director Mani Ratnam’s production house Madras Talkies had described as “an epic tale of power, rebellion, and triumph.”The film has music by A R Rahman and cinematography by Ravi K Chandran. It has editing by Mani Ratnam’s trusted editor Sreekar Prasad and stunts by the stuntmasters, Anbariv.Kamal Haasan had recently disclosed how confident he was of the film and the fact that audiences would extend their support to him.”Let me tell you how confident I am. Let other producers not think that I am throwing a challenge to them all. That is not the case. I have only sold the satellite and OTT rights of this film. Everything else, we are distributing ourselves. We are distributing without putting Mani sir at risk.”Tell me, how much confidence we must have in this film to do this. We know to do business to an extent. Trusting you, we have made a good film and invested in it. We have ploughed the fields and put fertilizers to the crops. A farmer does not know anything else apart from this. Our farming is cinema farming. To ensure that corporate farming does not happen, I need comrades like Mani Ratnam to support me. If you support this film, I will have the strength to deliver more good films,” he disclosed.–IANSmkr/