WISHING MOHAN DAS OF EON FILMS MANY HAPPY RETURNS…

The year 2014 had been quite eventful for Producer, Director and Story Writer Mohan Das as far as career was concerned. It took off to a flying start as immediately after celebrating his birthday, he was in the Paradise directing a docu-feature PRAGAASH that was based on the all girl rock band banned from performing in the valley of Kashmir. Having finished that he directed a short film MUAFINAAMA that highlights the issue of girl child abandonment in Kashmir. Not to forget mentioning the promo which he shot for a music reality show Pa Ma Ga Re Sa 2014 of which he was on the jury.

And while he was busy shooting Pragaash with his team in Kashmir came the good news of him having bagged the most prestigious Best Director Award at DIFF 2014. Mohan Das who ventured into commercial film direction with his latest offering SALT & LIGHT under his own banner Eon Films entered the world of films with a short film MAIN KAUN HOON on national integration for Doordarshan’s most prestigious wing Lok Seva Sanchar Parishad. He later assisted Hrishikesh Mukherjee in “Agar Aisa Ho To” (serial) only to assist Tapan Sinha in Shunya Communications outstanding feature “Daughters of this Century” (DOTC) which brought Jaya Bachchan back to silver screen after a hiatus of 16 years. It also had Shabana Azmi, Nandita Das, Deepa Sahi, Debashree Roy, Milind Gunaji, Sulbha Deshpande, and Bengal's heart throb Jeet in pivotal roles. Suporting them in major roles were Papia Sen, Arjun Chakraborty, Amit Banerjee and a host of actors from Kolkata's Tollygunge.

His Hinglish project SALT & LIGHT are much on the same lines as DOTC - a 5 part feature film - albeit with a difference. While DOTC was essentially a female centric film depicting the negligence and indifference towards the woman folk of our country, Salt & Light is essentially a male centric film highlighting male exploitation at various levels. He is also working on another 2 movie projects – one based on terrorism and another in Kashmiri language that will be shot in the valley again.

Right now his docu-feature “Pragaash” as well as short fictions “Muafinaama” and “Just Think” are making the rounds of festivals. And who knows, what 2015 has in store immediately after celebrating his birthday.

We at Films & TV World wish you sir all the best in your projects and at the same time WISH YOU MANY HAPPY RETURNS...

FTV World's "Model of the Week" is a promising face from Jaipur...

This week's Model is "Sachin Yadav" from Jaipur. An upcoming Actor and Model with deeper interest in this industry, Sachin Yadav is all set to make a mark on the fashion and acting circuit. An engineer on the go and pursuing B-tech. from Jaipur, this young lad from Etah with keen sights on the industry, is deeply focused and with an aim to excel in whatever he does. 

With a height of 5’9”, he has also walked on the ramp for a few designers, and now has trained his sights onto Bollywood.  An avid dancer and a keen sports enthusiast, Sachin has taken part in many sports and dance competitions and has been a winner too. He is now keenly looking to do movies, TV serials & short films, ads, print media and ramp walk too. We at Films & TV World wish him all the best. To view his profile, click: http://www.filmsntv.com/p/models.html

In case, you too would like to be featured on this “Model of the week” page in our series, mail your portfolios with your contact details on studiofilmcafe@gmail.com. And ya, no need to get disappointed if you don't find yourself in the coming week. Who knows, it might be your turn next... Cheers!!

RIFF Pride of Rajasthan Award for actor Prashantt Guptha

Actor Prashantt Guptha has been chosen for ‘The Pride of Rajasthan Award’ at the First Rajasthan International Film Festival (RIFF) at the Kala Kendra in Jaipur from january 18th.

This honour follows Prashantt Guptha’s Best Supporting Actor Award for Rahat Kazmi’s IDENTITY CARD, when he received the award at the hands of  Ayushmann Khurrana and the Honorable Consul General N. Parthasarthy at The San Francisco Global Movie Festival. Before this, the actor also received the Best Debutante Award at the 10th Excellence National Award for his earlier film ISSAQ in which he was noted in the role of a handsome villain.

While Issaq was a commercial film where the handsome hunk’s histrionics spoke with Prateek Babbar and Amyra Dastur, Identity Card highlighted the importance of an identity card in Kashmir without which one can be interrogated and arrested and labeled a terrorist. Prashantt Guptha played a Kashmiri cop and stood up with stalwarts of the likes of Saurabh Shukla, Vipin Sharma, Raghubir Yadav and Brijendra Kala.

Says Somendra Harsh, founder – Rajasthan International Film Festival, “we chose Prashantt Guptha for not just his acting skills but his overall persona. This award goes to a person who excels as a human being as much as he does as an actor. Over a small span of time, Prashantt Guptha has managed to carve his own niche in Bollywood. This apart, he is a poet and a singer and most importantly has his feet firmly on the ground. We are looking forward to his growth in the years to come and are proud of this young man who hails from our state.” 

As the Pride of Rajasthan Award adds another feather to Prashantt Guptha’s overcrowded cap, here is looking forward to seeing more of this young man.

Kamasutra nite with Shaleen Bhanot!

He is a face on television, best known for his histrionics, dancing and performing talent as well. Versatile actor Shaleen Bhanot, fondly called the Adonis of Indian television by fans,  added another feather to his already overcrowded cap by coming out with his first international singles as singer. The singles was launched at Levo Lounge.

With some amazing cuisine sensuously set to offset the mood, the evening saw celebs pouring in to congratulate the Adonis of Indian television, Shaleen Bhanot on his achievement.

Jagat Thakur and Vicky Tejwani of Levo Lounge played perfect hosts. Video director-choreographers Sumit-Sahil, UK’s biggest desi artiste Jaz Dhami, singers Rahul Vaidya, Preety Bhalla, Mudasir Ali, actors Vishal Singh, Sachin Chhabra, Phiroza Khan, stylist Josie Paris, Raman Khatri and many others were seen at the do.

After some sensuous songs belted out by Shaleen followed by equally erotic array of cuisine, the celebs hit the dance floor till they could dance no more.

Dhanraj Jethani’s “Uvaa” coming soon: New Poster unveiled

Dhanraj Jethani’s new upcoming film Uvaa’s new poster was unveiled recently. A youthful entertainer “Uvaa” is the story of Ram, Anil, Vikram, Salmaan and Deenbandhu who are the rebellious brats of suburban Delhi NCR, with the world at their feet and nothing to worry they stomp everything in their path without knowing the consequences, but challenge lay ahead when all of them are put in a totally new world of convent school, here they survive and thrive only to find love. But one night they encounter a horrifying event which puts them in the hands of law. Their lives change forever, they have to fight for justice and moral integrity to make an example for the world.

With story and direction by Jasbir B Bhaati, “Uvaa” stars Vikrant Rai, Rohan Mehra, Lavin Gothi, Mohit Baghel and Bhupendra Singh “Megh” in pivotal roles. Supporting them in the cast are the vivalicious Poonam Pandey and Yukti Kapoor with Jimmy Shergill, Archana Puran Singh, Rajit kapoor, Sangram Singh, Parikshat Sahani and the ever versatile Om Puri.

From Drug-addict to Sex-addict, Gulshan has always chose to be different

With the successfully growing career from a Drug-addict in Shaitan to a scheming business tycoon in Hate Story to the corrupt Bhuvan in Goliyon ki Rasleela Ram-Leela, Gulshan has never been into the stereo type bracket. And with his new upcoming movie Hunterrr, he is all set to venture in to a new kind of role that the audience will love him in.

Recently launched, attention seeker trailer of Hunterrr has revealed it all that Gulshan is now turned in to a sex-addict, called as "Vaassu", because he believes in smelling the needs of the women, in hindi - "Vaas leneka". " I have always sought for different roles, and i found Vaasu to be a very unique yet very ordinary character in real life. Its a Journey of Mandar Ponkshe aka Vaasu, who is always behind girls, a unassuming sex addict. He is a Lookerrrr, He is a Runneerrr, He is a Learnerrr, He is a Playerrr, He is a Hunterrr ", says Gulshan.

Hunterr is a directorial debute of Harshavardhan Kulkarni also writtern by him, starring Radkhika Apte and Sai Tamhankar along with Gulshan Devaiah in lead, to be release on March 20, 2015.

The Eichmann Show garners rave reviews

Acclaimed British actor who was last seen in ‘The Hobbit’ recently showcased his latest feature ‘The Eichmann Show’ at the prestigious BAFTA theatre in London. The film marks a one of its kind collaboration, boasting a strong India connect, with noted film producer Sheetal Talwar having co-produced this film with the BBC and BAFTA Winner and Nominee, Lawrence Bowen and Ken Marshall respectively.

The film has been garnering rave reviews following its UK showcase, with The Telegraph in London calling it “Absolutely Enthralling” and The Guardian stating it was “Full of good actors and good intentions”.  The Independent called it ‘A deft docu-drama that puts Eichmann back in the dock’ and the daily mail reviewed it saying “The Eichmann Show made us remember how easily hatred can engulf whole nations. It’s a message that demands deep reflection.”

What’s more is the fact that the film also had acclaimed actor Mark Gatiss took to twitter commending the film, calling it ‘Compelling, Shocking and horribly relevant’ as did other prominent personalities such as Kirstie Alsopp, Rory Cellan-Jones, Jonny Gellar amongst numerous others.

Talwar who was there at the special screening of the film at the BAFTA theatre said, “This is a once in a lifetime film and both Bhavna and I are proud to be a part of good cinema such as this. It was a great experience to be partnering with Lawrence, Ken, BBC and Paul and sharing the same dream, of making this story that deserved to be told on screen.”

The film that documents the infamous trial of the Nazi war crimes of Otto Adolf Eichmann stars acclaimed BAFTA winning actor Martin Freeman and Golden Globe winner Anthony LaPaglia in the lead.

The film that is already garnering such great buzz is scheduled to release soon in multiple territories and is being sold by one of the leading sales agents, Content Media Corporation.

“I'm not a Mallika Sherawat” says Khamoshiyan debutante Sapna Pabbi

Khamoshiyan debutante Sapna Pabbi along with Mahesh Bhatt, Ali Fazal & Gurmeet Choudhary visited Glamsham.com's office to promote the film.

Sapna has been reportedly projected as the next Mallika Sherawat of Bollywood. Both Mallika and Sapna have been a part of the Bhatt camp that is already known for starting a trend of portraying women in a different light. Hence, as expected, comparisons are being drawn between Mallika Sherawat and Sapna Pabbi, who seem to have worked on a similar plot in their movies Murder and Khamoshiyan respectively.

Speaking exclusively to Glamsham.com, Sapna Pabbi was in for a surprise when she was asked about her views on being portrayed as the next Mallika Sherawat.

While Sapna Pabbi was all praises about Mallika, she refused to accept the comparison, and in turn said, "Really? Well, I think she's great. Her success is commendable. Mallika Sherawat is in her own space. She has her own place in Bollywood and in society. I would like to say that I'm not a Mallika Sherawat, I'm Sapna Pabbi and I really hope I can always be Sapna Pabbi."

Sapna Pabbi, last seen in Anil Kapoor's TV series 24 as her daughter, will now be seen in the Karan Darra directed- Vishesh Films produced movie Khamoshiyan which is scheduled to release on January 30, 2015.

The Ultimate High End Fashion Calendar 2015 by IFFD

The Ultimate High End Fashion Calendar 2015 by Indian Federation for Fashion Development

It’s time to let the temperature soar high and reward fashion through a remarkable memento. The Indian Federation for Fashion Development has launched its High End Fashion Calendar for the year 2015. With its theme of Growing India, the IFFD Calendar 2015 is all set to make a mark at both national as well as international circuits. While the forefront displays scintillating model in designer outfits, the backgrounds represents growing India through different infrastructural building blocks.

Says Avinash Pathania, Founder, Director, Indian Federation for Fashion Development: “At IFFD we take the most novel ideas and concepts and drive them with passion and creativity.  This limited edition IFFD Calendar 2015 is one such idea. For its making, we aimed at creating a calendar which can justify that fashion industry in India is mature enough to be part of any fashion campaign world over.”

This limited edition calendar explores Make in India high end fashion with 13 different designers. Shot exclusively by photographer Kunaal Bose, the calendar scans through 2014 design masterpieces and features the works of 12 best fashion designers. Through his lens, Kunaal explores the fantasies of different infrastructural block when presented in high fashion. Here,   every element in each of the shots creates a story of growing Indian fashion on its own.

To add to the photography, Rishi Raj who is a well known Image consultant & Stylist was roped in to ensure unique styling. Shubhashini Ornamentals by Akassh K Aggarwal contributes to the incredible Jewellery designs. Makeup done by Savleen Manchanda & Atul Sharma was responsible for hair styling. The post production & final design of calendar was done Parmjit Singh. The 12 photos that make up the 2015 Calendar show different designs and depict high end fashion in all its grandeur. 

About the calendar, Kiran Kheva, Fashion Director says, “The 2015 IFFD Calendar is a clear expression to say that Indian Fashion industry can play important role in Make in India Campaign. The real infrastructural building blocks were used where make in India high end fashion simply illuminate the overall scenes.”

Fashion Designers who part of this initiative: are  Soltee by Sulakshna Monga, Rajdeep Ranawat, Raakesh Agarvwal, Manish Gupta, Niharika Pandey, Geisha Designs by Paras & Shalini, AUM by Nishu J, Lhusano Zakiesato, Virtues by Ashish Viral & Vikrant, Liz Paul by Satya & Liz, Dolly J, Mayyur Girotra. With his keen eye, Rishi Raj along with IFFD has selected these designers both in terms of their aesthetic rigour and for the recurring references to the art of fashion. 

IFFD Calendar was shot at Mahagun Mezzaria, Sector 78, Noida and The calender was unveiled at the plush venue "Story Unfolds at the garden of five senses". Hosting the event, Aman Bhandari, owner, Story Unfolds said, “it's always a privilege to host such fantastic events and support the work of fashion designers and institutes like the IFFD.”

Artiste Mamta Sen’s pays tribute to poor farmers of Sawantwadi through her painting collection - The Wait

Artiste Mamta Sen (also journalist) showcased her painting collection ‘The Wait’ at Mumbai Art By Artists, Prince of Wales Museum, Coomarswamy Hall, Colaba, between January 23-25, 2015 at 11 am to 6 pm. The display evoked rave reviews from art connoisseurs and general visitors. 

Mamta Sen says, “Sawantwadi, a former princely state and part of the Konkan belt of western coast of Maharashtra has the highest number of farmers who have almost abandoned their lands and have been working as migrants in neighbouring cities for many years. The women and children left behind by their husbands eventually end up as mere ‘protectors’ of the lands they once toiled in. These lands end up either being sold off under pressure to the local land mafia or abandoned, empty or left deserted.  The women have no skills or techniques empowered to make use of their own fertile lands. The paintings mostly acrylics of canvas, highlight the plight of these women and their circumstances. These are the first of the series of the region.”

Born and brought up in Mumbai, the subjects of Mamta Chitnis Sen’s works are concentrated on rural Maharashtra. A journalist and an extensive traveller, Mamta, an alumni of Sir J J School of Art  has been instrumental in creating paintings in oils and acrylics documenting the slow yet disappearing lives and identity of people, especially women living in rural India. A palette knife artist, Mamta aims to showcase the rustic rural landscape of interior India, specially Maharashtra and Bengal through her works, which is losing itself to the ills of urbanization. Her present exhibition The Wait revolving around the women of Sawantwadi is one such display of works that highlights the subject of migrant defection to cities leaving the women behind to look after the deserted and abandoned dry fields.

Mamta’s experience in making use of art and experimental theatre as a medium with women to touch upon the various social and current issues that they undergo in various spectrum of society also forms the basis of her works which depict both men and women in single or in groups bonding together to voice an emotion. She founded CanvasClan, a congregation of painters from various age groups in 2011 and organised two art exhibitions under the banner—Random Strokes (at Sir J J School of Art) and Resurrection Bihar (in celebration of 100 years of Bihar state) in Mumbai in 2012. She has also exhibited her works in several group shows across India and is in the process of documenting the art history of her alma mater Sir J J School of Art and its allied branches pre and post 1857 when the Institute was first founded.

The first part of her study on the existence of a state of the art Pottery Department in Mumbai at the Institute’s campus grounds by the British has been published in Rug-Ved, the Institute’s annual journal. The article sheds light on an abolished pottery building set up by the British between 1873-1875 which grew to such fame and glory that it threatened the sales of the famed Wedgewood Company in London. The building was later torn down in 1926 following the terrible plague which led to the decline of pottery students frequenting the campus premises thereby affecting the production and sale of ceramic products.

An avid art enthusiast cum artist and photographer, Mamta has also curated a photography exhibition “Loneliness in Wilderness’ showcasing the declining wildlife in urban areas of India.  Mamta is currently the Executive Editor of Dignity Dialogue, one of India’s foremost national magazines exclusively for the 50 plus age group. She has been a journalist with The Sunday Guardian writing on political issues and has also worked with reputed publications like Mid-Day, Society magazine and Sunday Observor. She volunteers as Social Network Officer with World Citizen Artists-- a forum of international artists, musicians and writers founded in Paris in 2013.  She has also authored research papers on the evolving role of women in political parties in India.

TO ALL OUR READERS, WELL WISHERS AND EVERY INDIAN...

“The Eichmann Show” co-produced by Sheetal Talwar garners rave reviews

Acclaimed British actor who was last seen in ‘The Hobbit’ recently showcased his latest feature ‘The Eichmann Show’ at the prestigious BAFTA theatre in London. The film marks a one of its kind collaboration, boasting a strong India connect, with noted film producer Sheetal Talwar having co-produced this film with the BBC and BAFTA Winner and Nominee, Lawrence Bowen and Ken Marshall respectively.

The film has been garnering rave reviews following its UK showcase, with The Telegraph in London calling it “Absolutely Enthralling” and The Guardian stating it was “Full of good actors and good intentions”.  The Independent called it ‘A deft docu-drama that puts Eichmann back in the dock’ and the daily mail reviewed it saying “The Eichmann Show made us remember how easily hatred can engulf whole nations. It’s a message that demands deep reflection.”

What’s more is the fact that the film also had acclaimed actor Mark Gatiss took to twitter commending the film, calling it ‘Compelling, Shocking and horribly relevant’ as did other prominent personalities such as Kirstie Alsopp, Rory Cellan-Jones, Jonny Gellar amongst numerous others.

Talwar who was there at the special screening of the film at the BAFTA theatre said, “This is a once in a lifetime film and both Bhavna and I are proud to be a part of good cinema such as this. It was a great experience to be partnering with Lawrence, Ken, BBC and Paul and sharing the same dream, of making this story that deserved to be told on screen.”

The film that documents the infamous trial of the Nazi war crimes of Otto Adolf Eichmann stars acclaimed BAFTA winning actor Martin Freeman and Golden Globe winner Anthony LaPaglia in the lead.

The film that is already garnering such great buzz is scheduled to release soon in multiple territories and is being sold by one of the leading sales agents, Content Media Corporation.

Disney Channel’s promises ‘Shanivaar, Ravivaar only for Parivaar’ with 5 new heart warming shows

For over ten years, Disney Channel India has entertained Indian kids with stories and characters that they have come to love and creating wonderful uniquely Disney memories along the way. Starting January 31st Disney Channel will airfive new heartwarming and uplifting live-action shows that will capture emotions and evolving aspirations whilst celebrating the joys of the progressive Indian Family of today.

January 31 will see the launch of five new live-action shows premiering on the weekend on the channel - ‘Kabhi Aise Geet Gaya Karo’, ‘Maan Na Maan Main Tera Mehmaan’, ‘Goldie Ahuja Matric Pass’, ‘Lage Raho Chachu’ and ‘Zindagi Khattee Meethi’, all backed with a talented star-cast including television veterans like Renuka Shahane, Mahesh Thakur, Sudhir Pandey, Maninee Mishra, Ashwin Kaushal, Harsh Vashisht amongst others. With heartwarming stories, moments of humor, celebrations and distinctly quirky personalities, each of the shows promise to touch your hearts and make you smile. 

Launched in 2005, Disney Channel has been the key destination for the Disney brand for kids in India. Disney Channel provides widely-enjoyed and unique, high quality branded entertainment that kids love and parents trust. Now with a promise of ‘Shanivaar, Ravivaar only for Parivaar’, the channel is extending this experience for families over weekends and will continue to entertain the kids with compelling animation stories and characters on the weekdays.

“Globally Disney is a family entertainment brand and in India, Disney Channel has represented the brand by providing viewers a decade of quality entertainment for kids.  With entertaining stories and campaigns that have encouraged them to express, believe in themselves and follow their dreams, the channel has defined television viewing experiences for kids. Now, with a renewed promise, the channel is progressing to provide a wholesome, uplifting entertainment experience for the entire family”, said Vijay Subramaniam, VP- Content and Communications, Media Networks, Disney India.

Get Exam Ready and Get More Marks as Topper TV Launches Paper Peek – An Exam Special Series

Television is no longer the proverbial idiot box. Switch on the TV to get exam ready in the most enjoyable and engaging manner. Topper TV, India’s only 24x7 education channel, presents Paper Peek, an exclusive TV series for the school exam season. The TV Series will also be available on www.topperlearning.com as a part of an examination special pack.

Premiered on 17th of January 2015, Paper Peek, an exam special series, covers Science and Mathematics for the 1st and 2nd terms for Class 9 and 10 and is designed according to the CBSE syllabus. The series will be spread over 36 episodes. These 30-minute episodes are specially designed and developed by our academic experts and teachers after poring through hundreds of past papers and keeping the trials and travails of students in mind. The episodes aim to provide comprehensive assistance to students to get them ‘Exam Ready’! Each chapter is explained with the help of graphics and animations which lucidly explain key concepts to students so that they can breeze through their exams and helps them with last minute revisions! The show breaks down each unit and chapter into well-thought-out segments covering the most important Multiple Choice Questions, Short Answer Questions and Subjective Questions – a must for students as part of their exam preparation.

Regarding the premiere of the series, Garima Chaudhry, CEO – GreyCells18, said, “It is our endeavour at Topper to weave together the best learning resources in offerings that engage today’s digitally savvy young minds and makes studying fun for them. Last minute revisions are never easy, and we hope that this series will be useful for students across the country in preparing for their crucial Class 9 and 10 examinations.”

Our hosts RJ Salil, RJ Archana and Yukti were as excited as the team at Topper on being a part of this innovative television concept. Sharing his thoughts on the changing education landscape, RJ Salil said, “Unlike our times, today’s children have a huge pool of resources for learning. While we only had textbooks and teachers to our rescue, children now have various media for guidance like television and the Internet. Education through various media is expanding, and I would say it’s all for the good.” Salil graduated in Economics from Sri Venkateshwara College, Delhi University.

Archana added, “The world is converging on the Internet and the visual medium! As long as children get an easier method to learn and score smarter, study time is invested effectively! Also at Topper TV, we make it visually stimulating and lucid. Many kids learn in a faster, smarter and more effective way.”

“How I wish we had such entertaining modes of education when we were growing up! Education on web and TV is not only loads of fun but also does justice to the technology created with the same intention,” reasoned Yukti. Yukti Kapoor Mehandiratta has a Bachelors degree in Mathematics and a Masters degree in Business Administration.

So students, it’s time to GET EXAM READY! Subscribe right away to Topper TV or log on to www.topperlearning.com for your one-stop destination to GET MORE MARKS. Best of luck!

Operated by Greycells18, Topper TV is India’s only 24x7 educational channel and is a part of the media powerhouse Network 18 that provides new-age learning resources such as videos, animation and graphics, sample papers, revision notes and exhaustive question banks to make learning enjoyable and simple for the K-12 segment. Along with Paper Peek, Topper TV boasts of several other shows covering Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and Biology for Class 6 to 12 – shows on the Earth’s flora and fauna, on the way things work and more.

Watch out for this exciting series and stay tuned for more!

see the Best of KASHISH @ SNDT

Kashish Mumbai International Queer Film Festival is bringing a slice of its festival to the suburbs with the 'Best of Kashish ' screening organized as part of the ongoing Mumbai Pride Month.

'Best of Kashish ', a 4 hour programme of LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer) films that have won awards or have been audience favourites at Kashish 2014, will be screened at this event to be held on January 24th 4pm-8pm at SNDT Women's College, Juhu.

Some of the notable films are 'Families are Forever' (Winner of Kashish 2014 Best Documentary Short), 'Naked' (Winner of Kashish 2014 Best International Narrative Short), 'P.D.A' (Special Mention in Kashish 2014 Best International Narrative Short), audience favourites 'Crush-Shake', 'Spooners', 'Luigi & Vincenzo' and the wonderful lesbian feature 'Margarita' from Canada.

"These films touch a chord within us and make us realize that LGBTQ persons are human beings with the same human emotions, and they too need to be accepted as part of the larger social mainstream in every country. It is time we stop discrimination and hatred against LGBTQ persons. Let us together build a society that accords equality and dignity for everyone", said Sridhar Rangayan, festival director of Kashish.

The event promises to be a roller-coaster journey of happiness & hope, fun & fights, tears & trauma, laughter & love.

Be there to be part of this memorable journey.

What: Best of KASHISH screening

When: January 24th, 4pm - 8pm

Where: Mini Auditorium, SNDT Women's University, Juhu

Location: It is on the Juhu Tara Road, Santa Cruz (West), Mumbai

How much: FREE ENTRY. Seating on first-come first-served basis.

Pogo and Graphic India presents ‘Sholay Adventures’ to entertain kids through animated TV series

Pogo, Graphic India and Sholay Media and Entertainment have announced that they will bring “Sholay Adventures,” an animated reinvention of the beloved classic, to the small screen. The first movie in the series will premiere on Pogo on Monday, January 26th at 12pm.

Sholay Adventures will be the first of four television animation films that introduce Jai and Veeru in new and mischievous kid avatars. Parents will remember the enduring qualities of friendship and loyalty from the original film, while kids will experience heroes like Jai and Veeru for the very first time. Sholay Adventures will bring together two generations in a new fun adventure.

Commenting on this partnership, Siddharth Jain, Managing Director, South Asia, Turner International India Pvt. Ltd. said, “With Pogo, we have always strived to create local content that resonates with Indian kids. By partnering with Graphic India and Sholay Media Entertainment to reinvent an iconic movie like Sholay, we hope to engage and entertain not only kids but also parents.”

“Sholay is beloved by millions of people across the country. We are thrilled to be working with Sholay Media and Entertainment and Pogo to take these iconic characters into exciting new stories through animation for the first time,” commented Graphic’s Co-Founder & CEO, Sharad Devarajan “The legendary friendship of Jai &Veeru has captivated generations. Now, with this fun and action-packed, kids animation, both fathers and sons will be able to experience Sholay in a whole new way together.” 

Veeru and Jai are back! As 10 year olds working for Thakur Uncle’s secret Sholay police agency, they’re on a mission to stop Gabbar Singh and his villainous group of monsters and criminals known as the Fright Force! The fate of the world is in the hands of these two best friends! The animated films take the well beloved characters that populated the original Sholay movie and reinvents them in a fun animated way for kids.

Devarajan is an Executive Producer of the animated film with Sascha Sippy, Chairman of Sholay Media and Entertainment. The new animated look of the beloved movie characters were created by Graphic India’s SVP Creative, Jeevan J. Kang with the script for the animated series written by acclaimed writer, Alok Sharma, a lead writer on Cartoon Network’s originally produced hit series, Roll No. 21.

Beyond animation, Graphic India and Sholay Media and Entertainment will also introduce books, merchandise and other products for kids based on the new Sholay Adventures.

UTV's #KattiBatti, slated for release on 18th September

Directed by Nikhil Advani, UTV's KattiBatti is slated for release on 18th September. The film stars for the first time together Kangana Ranaut and Imran Khan. UTV and Sajid Nadiadwala will be jointly releasing the film.

Boman Irani & Hariharan S. launch “Runaway Children”

The who’s who of the corporate world and Social service alike attended the launch of the book by upcoming author Mr. S. Hariharan. Taking you through his journey, the book ‘Runaway Children’ was launched by Mr. Hariharan S. in the presence of Actor Boman Irani, CEO of Vodafone India Mr. Sunil Sood, Ex. Director general of Police- Maharashtra and Ex. Commissioner of Police- Mumbai Mr. D Sivanandan, M.D. of Jaico Publishing House Mr. Ashwin Shah and Vijay Dada Jadhav founder of Samatol Foundation.

Mr. Hariharan and his street children foundation in close association with Samatol foundation are working towards welfare and reform of several runaway children across India. Those very runaway children, innocent and angelic, were present at the event who inaugurated the book by cutting ribbon of a beautiful large sized book cast.

The event had the elements of enthusiasm, drive and love along with a will to make a difference to lot of children considering all the proceeds from the book ‘Runaway Children’ will go into the cause for runaway children and street children.

Mr. S. Hariharan runs a BPO business in Mumbai with his wife and two children. An avid traveller, he plans to cover 200 countries before he turns sixty. He is passionate about cooking, philosophy and improving life of street children across the world.

Endemol India’s Lagori completes 300 Episodes

Endemol India produced Lagori has completed 300 episodes on Star Pravaah with an explosive episode. The successful show which airs on Star Pravah every Monday to Friday at 9pm, has recently been named the Best Serial of the year at the Viewer’s choice MMW Gaurav awards, with popular actress Anuja Sathe-Gokhale who reprises the role of Urmila being named as Best Actress in the viewer’s choice television category. The fun filled emotional roller coaster ride of friends Mukta, Poorva, Rujuta, Urmila and Dhanashree has received immense love and support from fans. The story line with the twists and truths of their life and friendship in the Marathi daily soap which started in February 2014, has continually struck the right cord with its audiences.

On completing the journey of 300 episodes successfully; the entire team of Lagori celebrated this happy moment by cutting a cake while the cast and crew shared and relived some of the fun moments and experiences they have had so far with the show.

Commenting on the completion of the 300th episode of Lagori, Abhishek Rege, COO - Television, Endemol India, said “Lagori is a touching tale about the journey of friendship and has gained immense popularity amongst the younger demographic who identify with the story line and the characters. The show has reached a new high with the completion of 300 memorable episodes and this has only been possible with the hard work put in by the cast and crew and of course the continuous support from Star Pravah.”

Mr. Anand Chavan Marathi Business Head, Endemol India, added “This award winning show with a strong story line and high production values has managed to create a lasting impression in the minds of the viewers. The character portrayal and interesting plot has engrossed all with the highs and lows that every relationship goes through. We hope that the show continues its popular streak and on our part we hope to keep them hitched to this emotional tale of Mukta, Poorva, Rujuta, Urmila and Dhanashree.”

Stay tuned to the most popular girl gang on television On Star Pravah from Monday to Saturday – Prime Time 9 PM.

Akshay Kumar leads Indian celebrity online support for Global Action/2015 campaign launch

India’s leading global ambassadors comprising A-list actors, actresses, renowned directors, award-winning authors, dignitaries and esteemed public figures came together in an unprecedented show of unity on the 15th of January 2015 to show their support via Twitter and Facebook for the launch of the historic action/2015 campaign. The campaign, billed as one of the biggest global outreach initiatives in history to address world-changing issues of climate change, poverty and inequality, saw a massive outpouring of solidarity from celebrities such as actor Akshay Kumar, who was the first major celebrity to tweet his support for the campaign reaching over 7.2 million Twitter followers and over 14 million users on Facebook. He was joined by compatriots Sonam Kapoor, Malaika Arora-Khan, Pulkit Samrat, Kiara Advani, Mohit Marwah, Arfi Lamba author Chetan Bhagat, producers Ashvini Yardi (Grazing Goat Pictures) and Ritesh Sidhwani (Excel Entertainment), TV personalities Gautam Rode, sport stars Yuvraj Singh and Vijendra Singh to name some of the growing list of supporters.

The action/2015 campaign will garner further support on the 15th of January 2015, when an open letter, signed by such renowned activists as Indian actor Aamir Khan, will be sent to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to encourage further action by India to address such critical issues as poverty, climate change and equality. Other major names to sign the open letter include Queen Rania Al Abdullah, U2 frontman Bono, Hollywood actors Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, Hugh Jackman, philanthropists Bill and Melinda Gates, UK-Sudanese entrepreneur Mo Ibrahim, singer Shakira and 2014 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Malala Yousafzai among many others.

They issue a stark warning; that while leaders have a historic chance in 2015 to make progress on some of the greatest challenges of our time at two critically important summits, currently too few leaders are playing the leadership roles needed. They set out their fear that if this does not change, leaders could be “sleepwalking the world towards one of the greatest failures of recent history.” India, although a country emerging as a powerful and revolutionary force on the world stage, still worryingly accounts for one-third of the world’s poor.

The action/2015 campaign is a growing movement of more than a thousand organisations in over 120 countries, which is urging political leaders to honour the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) previously set when they meet at the global United Nations Summit for the adoption of the post-2015 development agenda in September 2015, and the United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP21 in December 2015. The campaign was announced by education activist Malala when she accepted the Nobel Peace Prize.

On the 14th January, action/2015 rolled out in New Delhi with a congregation of over 200 children, youth and members of CSOs along with the presence of Honorable Najma Heptullah, Union Minister of Minority Affairs, Amitabh Behar from Wada Na Todo Abhiyan, Shireen Vakil Miller, Advocacy Director, Save The Children, Kaveree Bamzai, Editor-at-large, India Today Group and child representatives like Ayonara Khatun from West Bengal.  In New Delhi, on January 15, a group of fifteen 15-year old teenagers will seek to meet the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sushma Swaraj, Minister for External Affairs. A group of fifteen 15-year old teens will also be meeting political heads (Governor, Chief Minister, Ministers) in 15 states on the same day with a set of key requests. 

For more information please visit www.action2015.org Please get involved by joining on twitter and facebook.  To find out more take a look at the website, the articles around the world - The Guardian, Financial Times, Independent, Nigerian Guardian, Euractive In Brussels, Economic Times in India. You can also read and share this blog and watch and share the launch video.  

YouTube: http://youtu.be/o0HjIBDB1QY

Twitter: @action2015

Facebook: www.facebook.com/action2015Global

Hashtag:           #action2015

Two legendary maestro’s Pandit Shiv Kumar & Ustad Zakir Hussain paid musical homage to spiritual Luminary Shree Shree MA Anandamayee.

Anand Trust, a charitable organization involved in altruistic activities,  brought together the legendary Maestros of Santoor and Tabla- PanditShivkumar Sharma accompanied by Ustad Zakir Hussain.

Pandit Shivkumar Sharma and Ustad Zakir Hussain, the world’s greatest performers on santoor and tabla respectively, are two legends of Indian music who have collaborated together since the early 1970s. Panditji has been the pioneer of the Santoor and is credited to introduce the instrument to the Indian Classical repertoire. Tabla genius Ustad Zakir Hussain is one of the most famous and recognizable names in the Indian Classical and world music movement. Winners of innumerable amount of accolades, both musicians have mesmerized and touched millions of hearts with the finest music they have produced together a musical symphony, an amalgamation of the lush simmering sounds of the Santoor and the awe inspiring rhythm of the Tabla.

The peerless, mystical and compelling musical duo created a musical symphony by performing together on Thursday, 15th January, 2015 at Nehru Centre Auditorium, Worli, Mumbai. The concert was splendid as the world renowned Samrat of Santoor and his favourite accompanist- the Master of Percussion performed.

Proceeds from the concert will be used to aid and support Shree MA Anandamayee Kanyapeeth Girls School situated on the banks of the river Ganga at Varanasi and the Anandamayee divinity center being built on the banks of river Narmada at Bhimpura.  The boarding school for girls is run on the ancient Gurukul system and runs only on donations as education, boarding lodging, all is gratis. The Anandamayee divinity center will have a meditation hall & rooms for ascetics and senior citizens who wish to come here for spiritual retreats.

ABCD 2 (3D) to release on June 19th...

First look of Disney’s ABCD 2 (3D) directed by Remo D’ Souza, starring Prabhudeva, Shraddha Kapoor and Varun Dhawan to release on June 19th...

"Kite flying is one of my favourite festivals and since I am from Jamnagar in Gujarat where it’s celebrated extensively with family and friends, it really inspired me when we were shooting a song for ABCD 2. During our Vegas shoot we shot a dream sequence using kites and it has turned out beautifully. In fact post the shoot, the cast and crew engaged in a game of kite flying as well which was great fun...took me back to my Jamnagar days", says director Remo D'Souza of Disney's ABCD2.

Renu Modi hosts Manjunath Kamath’s solo show ‘Postponed Poems’

Renu Modi, Director, Gallery Espace, hosted the opening of Postponed Poems, a solo show of terracotta sculptures and drawings by Delhi-based artist Manjunath Kamath at Gallery Espace amidst a gathering of the who’s who from the arts fraternity.

Postponed Poems is the aggregate of Kamath’s distinctive imagery rich with the narratives of everyday life, interwoven with mythologies and intimate stories. Kamath’s hobby of collecting artifacts over last 30 years forms the basis for his sculptural work. The old and aged classical and folk sculptures become the subject for his work which is imparted with his signature flavour of witticism and satire.

Those who attended the opening included Renu Modi (director, Gallery Espace), Neha Kirpal (director, India Art Fair), Subodh Gupta (artist), Bharti Kher (artist), Chintan Upadhyay (artist), Gigi Scaria (artist), Arun Kumar HG (artist), Kanchan Chander (artist), Siri Devi Khandavilli (artist), Puja Bahri ( artist), Manu Parekh with wife Madhvi (artists), Jagannath Panda (artist), Veer Munshi (artist), Shruti Gupta Chandra (artist), Sonia Mehra Chawla (artist), Amitava Das (artist), Gopi Gajwani (artist), Sunaina Anand (gallerist), Anahita Taneja (gallerist), Sushma Bahl (curator), Archana Bahl Sapra (curator)  among many others.

Basant Panchami Special on Bal Gopal Kare Dhamaal

Big Magic continues to bring in entertaining festive specials filled with fun, masti and a tadka of comedy. The show depicting Sharmaji and Bal Gopal’s chemistry which is recreated on the lines of the Arjun-Krishna duo from the Mahabharat is all set to celebrate the teachings of Maa Saraswati, the goddess of learning, wisdom, knowledge. In a special Mahasangam, the Mehta family, Shaktishali family, Verma family will come together to celebrate Basant Panchmi on Saturday 24th January at 8.30 pm on Big Magic.

Sharma ji’s otherwise normal and mundane life which looks restricting, becomes Chatpata and humorous with the entry of the young and mischievous Bal Gopal in his life. The remarkable actor Satyajit Sharma is sure to leave the audiences rolling with laughter with his spectacular performance on the show. This special beset with entertainment and humor will make for an engaging evening watch for the entire family.

Do not miss out on the episode on wisdom with a touch of comedy this Saturday, January 24 at 8.30 pm on Big Magic. Celebrate the teaching of Goddess Saraswati and the learning of Arjun-Krishna duo on Bal Gopal Kare Dhamaal.

Suneil Anand’s Hollywood movie Vagator Mixer ends

Suneil Anand (Navketan Films) and his joint venture partner Deen Bakshi (Junix Entertainments Inc., Hollywood) have just returned from LA after completing the filming of their Hollywood movie, Vagator Mixer. The movie is a unique blend of romance, martial arts and action. Suneil (A Wing Tsun exponent) plays the lead (Vagator Mixer) and Deen plays a pivotal negative character. The movie showcases some promising talent--Aubree (Leading Lady), Tatannia (Supporting Lady), Phillipos (Goan Drug Lord and Capoeira expert), Blake (F.B.I. Agent), Efka (An Ex-Special Forces Russian-Drug Lord), Tom (Hippie), and others.

Vagator Mixer has been shot on locations in LA and Goa, India. The Martial Arts fights for the movie have been composed by Grand Master Leung Ting (10th Level, M.O.C.), Founder and President of I.W.T.A, Hong Kong and direct student of the Late Great Grand Master Yip Man. The screenplay is by Doug Popovich and Roland Minez. Cinematography is by Scott MacDonald. The movie is directed by Suneil. The post-production is in process and plans are underway to hire the services of talented bands/ composers to score the sound track of the movie. Vagator Mixer is expected to be released worldwide in the summer of 2015.

Cyrus Broacha and son Mikhail participate in the Father - Son Cricket Tournament at Smaaash

For every son, his father is a hero and for a generation of fathers, Sachin Tendulkar is their hero. The Father and Son Cricket Tournament at Smaaash which is on till 31st January, has witnessed huge number of enthusiasts playing the game. Well-known comedian and TV anchor Cyrus Broacha was seen bonding with his 12 year old son Mikhail over a game of cricket at Smaaash.

All one has to do is form the perfect father-son duo and they can stand the chance to meet Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar himself!

Form a father-son team, play in the different age categories and get a chance to meet the cricketing icon. Over the course of the month top teams will be identified and will be selected for the grand prize.

These will include the top 3 scoring father-son pairs from each age category. The tournament involves a 6 over match at Smaaash Cricket.

Age Categories: Under 10, Under 12, Under 14 and Under 16

When- Till 31st January 2015

Where: Smaaash, Kamala Mills Compound, Gate No 4, Lower Parel

Registration Fee: Rs. 800 for 8 overs. Where 2 overs are for practice and 6 overs are counted as tournament

Contact Number: 022 4914 3143