BIG FM successfully concludes its latest initiative ‘Sutta Chhod De Na Yaar’! on World No-Tobacco Day

Consumption of tobacco and smoking is a major health concern in our country amongst individuals across age groups. With an endeavour to create awareness on the hazards of the same, BIG FM, one of the leading radio networks in the country, had recently introduced its initiative 'Sutta Chhod De Na Yaar’ urging its listeners to quit smoking. Celebrating World No-Tobacco Day, the radio network culminated its purpose-driven initiative and received an overwhelming response from its listeners. As part of the campaign, a distinctive reality show ‘Quitsvilla’, was curated to encourage smokers to overcome their addictive habit.

From a mother signing up her young son to receiving self-registration from a chain smoker of 25 years, unique sets of Jodis stayed at the ‘Quitsvilla’ house in their quest to kick the life threatening habit. BIG FM conducted a host of engaging sessions and activities to motivate the participants. Popular Bollywood actor, Jimmy Shergill visited the Quitsvilla house, interacting and encouraging the participants to quit the harmful habit. Additionally, celebrities like Manoj Bajpayee, Vijay Deverkonda, Sachin Pilgaonkar and Vikrant Massey also shared words of encouragement and spoke about their journey.  Mr Satyanaran - Joint Commissioner of Police, Law & Order, Greater Mumbai also extended his support. Over the course of 48 hours in the Quitsvilla house, the participants engaged in various activities that included a sound healing singing bowl session with Manifestation Mentor, Manadda Patil, a yoga session by Guru Mansoor Baluch and a meet and greet with BIG RJs. This was followed by a musical evening with the Indian Idol fame singer Shahzan Mujeeb.

Commenting on the campaign, Sunil Kumaran, COO, BIG FM, said, “With Sutta Chhod De Na Yaar campaign, our aim was to urge our listeners to prioritise their health and well-being. The participants in the Quitsvilla house truly showcased their unwavering determination, drawing closer to achieving the ultimate goal of quitting the habit. We are glad to have taken a significant step towards creating awareness regarding the perils of smoking through this campaign. With the constant support from celebrities, doctors, psychologists and other experts, the initiative acted as a catalyst to enable people to choose a healthier lifestyle.”

Sutta Chod De Na Yaar campaign was championed by 4 BIG FM RJs - RJ Abhilash, RJ Rani, RJ Dilip and RJ Vrajesh. While RJ Abhilash touched upon a deeply personal account about losing his father to the dreadful habit, RJ Rani took a closer look at the alarming rise of smoking amongst women. RJ Dilip, related to the motivational side of the campaign emphasising on willpower, whereas RJ Vrajesh looked upon the hard-hitting aspects backed by facts and a doctor. The campaign was extensively promoted on social media, on-air and across other platforms. The impactful initiative is perfectly in line with BIG FM’s philosophy of ‘Dhun Badal Ke Toh Dekho’, driving a positive change in society.

Great Conversation, very insightful for some of us who are keen to practice a healthy lifestyle: Manisha Koirala

The evergreen beauty Manisha Koirala recently interacted with author Peter Attia, MD, who is the founder of Early Medical. He received his medical degree from the Stanford University School of Medicine and trained at the Johns Hopkins Hospital in general surgery. He also trained at the NIH as a surgical oncology fellow at the National Cancer Institute, where his research focused on immune-based therapies for melanoma. He serves on the editorial board for the journal Aging. He is the host of The Drive, one of the most popular podcasts covering the topics of health, medicine, and longevity.

And If resilience, strength and positivity could be summed up in one, the first name that springs to mind is Manisha Koirala. The versatile actress has been featured in around the 100 films across languages. Manisha was indeed one of the most popular faces in the 1990s and 2000s and given some blockbuster hits in her career.

The actress was always vocal when it came to promoting causes such as cancer awareness, Heart disease, Diabetic, Mental health ect. She has used her social media account to send across a message of hope to survivors and those struggling with health issues. The talented actress Manisha took to her Instagram account and shared their interaction video with Peter Attia talking about how the current lifestyle of most people is hugely responsible for their health issues and the people should follow the right way of living their healthy life.

Tagging the Instagram page of the author, Manisha wrote about her experience while interacting with the author Peter Attia "Great Conversation, very insightful for some of us who are keen to practice a healthy lifestyle. Thank you @peter for the book outlive to understand how to live healthy and long. Good lifespan and great healthspan. He has written in great details about a few important aspects of well-being. Optimal exercise, right nutrition, biochemistry, 8/9 hours of sleep, good emotional health/stress free life. The book talks in a scientific manner after doing a lot of research...Thank you for writing this book as it will be a benchmark for me and manu like me to follow. Trust me there are many insights you will discover in a new light."

Pooja Chopra enjoying her Me-time in the valley of the Himalayas.

Pooja Chopra is a busy bee. The multi-talented actress, who made her won the title of Femina Miss India and the first "Beauty with a Purpose" winner at Miss World has recently  visited the beautiful place of Himalayas's Parwanoo to honour inspiring leaders who have made remarkable achievements in their respective fields. And it was more incredible to join forces with the esteemed governor of Haryana Bandaru Dattatreya to present the prestigious awards. 

After wrapping up with a professional commitment, actress Pooja Chopra took a break and headed to explore some local sights of Parwanoo .The travel enthusiast, who keeps rejuvenating herself by enjoying her Me time  to the fullest often displays her love for travel whenever  she gets a chance  from her busy schedule. The actress is an active social media user who always updates her fans with her activities. And recently she posted some cheerful travel pictures from the Himalayas which delighted her followers. 

Yokohama’s First Women’s Car Rally in Bengaluru cruises to Success

Yokohama’s much-anticipated first edition of WOW (Women on Wheels) Yokohama Car Rally was flagged off to a flying start today.  The TSD (Time Speed Distance) Treasure Hunt format Rally was open to all women who love driving and the event had as many as 50 + cars participating. The day-long rally featured a captivating treasure hunt element that tested both the participants and their cars.

Harshawardhan Honmode, Director, Yokohama India said, “We are delighted with the overwhelming response to the WOW Yokohama car rally. Our core effort through the rally was to bring together women for whom driving is more than just commuting and this event was an accurate representation of our corporate philosophy of celebrating the motoring lifestyle.”

“The enthusiasm and skill demonstrated by the participants was truly inspiring. We had a variety of cars competing and I would like to take this opportunity to convey that Yokohama remains committed to supporting every customer in making their drives as comfortable as possible,” added Harshawardhan Honmode.

RJ Malishka, the popular radio personality who flew down to Bengaluru from Mumbai to be a part of the Yokohama Women’s Rally said, “I am a big believer in driving down new paths and breaking barriers. Driving is liberating and this rally was the perfect mix of adventure and fun for all participants!”

Another participant Karuuna Sharma who came down from Delhi for the rally said that over the years she has seen an increase in women participating in such events. “It’s great to see that it’s not just professionals who are participating but women from all walks to life too,” added Karuuna, a seasoned rally participant with several accolades behind her.

The Women on Wheels Yokohama Rally witnessed an impressive participation of women motoring enthusiasts, traversing a challenging route spanning approximately 80–100 kilometers and encompassing diverse city, country, and highway roads. The participants engaged in a spirited competition, categorized into separate divisions for both amateurs and professionals, as they vied for enticing cash prizes.

With interactive activities seamlessly woven into the event, participants enjoyed an engaging and thrilling experience.

For the WOW Rally, Yokohama partnered with Chetan Shivram Motors as the ground partner and the Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center as the hospitality partner, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Max, Discovery Plus new show "The Piece Maker" nominated for Best Travel / Adventure Show by the Critics' Choice Awards

Max, formerly HBOMax, Discovery+ and the Magnolia Network, the premier destination for compelling storytelling and inspiring content, new hit show "The Piece Maker," hosted by the talented Eric Dowdle, has been nominated for Best Travel or Adventure Show by the prestigious Critics' Choice Awards.

"The Piece Maker" follows the captivating journey of Eric Dowdle, celebrated folk artist and passionate world traveler, as he embarks on a quest to capture the soul and essence of various cities around the world through his unique art. With his paintbrush in hand, Eric takes viewers on an immersive adventure, unveiling the rich history, people and stories of each location he visits.

The Critics' Choice Awards, renowned for recognizing excellence in television and film, have honored "The Piece Maker" with a nomination in the highly competitive Best Travel or Adventure Show category. This recognition is a testament to the show's outstanding production quality, engaging storytelling, and Eric Dowdle's extraordinary ability to blend the adventure of travel and discovery into a beautiful piece of art.

Since its debut, "The Piece Maker" has received widespread acclaim from both viewers and critics alike. Eric Dowdle's infectious enthusiasm and genuine curiosity have struck a chord with audiences, making the show an instant fan favorite. The nomination from the Critics' Choice Awards further solidifies the show's impact in the travel and adventure genre.

"I am truly honored to be nominated for Best Travel or Adventure Show by the Critics' Choice Awards. This recognition is a testament to the incredible places and people I have had the privilege of meeting along this journey. I decided years ago that I wouldn’t paint a place unless I’d actually been there. Because I know if I can feel what makes it special, then you’ll be able to feel it too. I hope 'The Piece Maker' continues to inspire viewers to explore the world, appreciate different places and people, and to embrace their own creative passions,” said Eric Dowdle, host of "The Piece Maker."

Over the years Eric has traveled to over 500 places around the world to create his iconic paintings that then become his highly sought after collectible jigsaw puzzles. 

Magnolia Network is a leading entertainment destination that celebrates the power of human connection, authentic relationships, and inspiring spaces. Co-founded by Chip and Joanna Gaines. "The Piece Maker" joins a stellar lineup of original programming on the Magnolia Network, which includes a wide range of lifestyle, home and design shows that resonate with viewers seeking meaningful and uplifting content. The first season of “The Piece Maker” is available on the Magnolia Network and Max (formerly HBOMax and Discovery+). The winners of the Critics' Choice Awards will be announced during a star-studded ceremony on June 15th, 2023 in Los Angeles, CA.

Rajkummar Rao wants to swap lives with the talented Alia Bhatt!

Amidst the glitz and glamour of the remarkable evening at Femina and Mamaearth present ‘Beautiful Indians 2023’, the multi-talented Rajkummar Rao took home the prestigious award for Outstanding Talent (Male). As he graciously accepted the award, he thanked his team and peers from the industry for his remarkable journey in Bollywood. Just as the audience thought the actor was done with the acceptance speech, he found himself caught by a quirky question that sparked curiosity in everyone's minds. Host Karan Wahi asked "If you could swap lives with one Bollywood female actress, other than your lovely wife, who would it be?" The quick-witted actor, dressed in an all-brown suit, playfully responded, "Alia Bhatt!"

The response took everyone by a pleasant surprise as Rajkummar went on to explain, "Alia is immensely talented, and I would love to know the kind of conversations she indulges in with Bhatt Sir, Soni ma’am and Ranbir. Also, the kind of movies that she watches to bring forth all that incredible talent!"

His answer was received with a loud roar of applause from the audience, who hooted and cheered the actor for his big win. Later, the actor also joined Vicky Kaushal on stage along with Aditya Roy Kapur and Arjun Kapoor to shake a leg with Kaushal and set the stage ablaze.

Addatimes premieres a comedy series – Gentlemen

Addatimes, the first Bengali on-demand OTT Platform of the country, premieres, Gentlemen, a comedy series created by Riddhi Barua, directed by Korok Murmu and produced by Surinder Films. The 9-episode web series stars actors like Rudranil Ghosh, Mir Afsar Ali & Joy Sengupta in the lead roles along with Madhurima Basak. 

"The comedy as a genre has an engaging and ever-expanding viewer base. Gentlemen, is a story of a trio with midlife crisis. The humorous series is laced with performances that are enjoyable and impactful. We have plans to introduce a host of new contents along with movies every month," said Mr Nispal Singh, Director, Surinder Films Pvt Ltd.

The plot showcases Rudranil Ghosh as Meghmallar Mukhopadhyay, a 48-year-old struggling singer and a music teacher is totally dissatisfied with his life and eagerly wants to get married. Mir Afsar Ali as Andy Mascarenas a 45-year-old Radio Jockey is also unhappy with his professional life as he runs the afternoon show for the station despite his capabilities of being a breakfast show presenter and Joy Sengupta, as Shilajit Sanyal, a 42-year-old shopkeeper faces problems in his life too. The trio happens to meet by chance and decides to open a massage parlour with live musical performances in it. Then the character played by Madhurima Basak enters their life. What happens next? Would they be able to come over their mid-life crisis or succumb to it, is what the story is all about.

Addatimes is available on Play store, App Store, Android TV & Fire TV. The yearly subscription plans are INR 799 for a single screen and INR 1199 for 2 screens for a year. For international viewers, the subscription comes at $ 49.99 for double screen per year.

Mrunal Thakur makes a stunning red-carpet debut in Falguni Shane Peacock in association with Grey Goose

Mrunal Thakur known for her remarkable performances in both bollywood and the digital space has made her dazzling debut at the Cannes Red Carpet with Grey Goose. With their shared commitment to excellence Grey Goose and Mrunal created an unforgettable experience at the festival.

To mark this momentous occasion amidst their remarkable journey, Grey Goose partnered with Falguni Shane Peacock at the Cannes Film Festival to create Mrunal’s custom looks. Together, they presented a fashion-forward narrative that emphasized the importance of focusing on the journey rather than the destination.

Mrunal’s red carpet debut symbolized a pivotal movement in her career, reflecting her journey from India to the International Stage. Her undeniable talent, combined with Grey Goose’s timeless allure and Falguni Shane’s design sensibilities brought a touch of glamor and sophistication, setting a new standard for red carpet appearances.

Mrunal wore an ivory evening gown by Falguni Shane Peacock. The fitted gown has strategically placed cutouts that add a touch of modernity. Adding a whimsical touch to the gown, delicate frills cascade gracefully in the front. The gown is replete with a waist cape that falls elegantly over the waistline, creating drama and a visual impact. Exquisite and intricate silk thread work embroidery, sequins, acrylic applique and opaque stones adorn the bodice of the gown. An elegant trail with feathers completes the ensemble.

Speaking on the occasion Mrunal Thakur adds “Representing Grey Goose at Cannes festival and being a part of this iconic celebration of creativity has been an honor. Collaborating with Falguni Shane added an extra layer of excitement to my red-carpet appearance.

Speaking on the occasion Falguni Shane adds “For Mrunal (Thakur), we’ve created an ivory-hued evening gown that exudes sheer elegance and fashion-forward allure. The gown’s fitted silhouette and the strategically placed cutout’s accentuate Mrunal’s curves and adds a touch of sensuousness and modernity to the look. These artfully crafted cutouts reveal just the right amount of skin, creating a tantalising balance between sensuality and refined charm. The gown celebrates Mrunal’s grace and sophistication. It pays homage to the country’s heritage, showcasing the unparalleled craftsmanship and attention to detail that have been perfected over generations.”

Women are already shining and will continue to shine: Dr. L. Murugan @ Cannes 2023

Day 4 at India Pavilion at the ongoing Cannes Film Festival started with a powerful session on role of women in media and entertainment space. The session aptly titled ‘She Shines’ was moderated by actor producer Khushboo Sundar while the speakers were Actor Esha Gupta, Greek-American director Daphne Schmon along with filmmakers Madhur Bhandarkar and Sudhir Mishra known for making female centric films.

Starting the conversation veteran Khushboo Sundar said, “India cinema is going through a beautiful phase where women are playing an important role in Cinema not only as actor but also producers, directors and technicians.”

Talking about creative economy with women power Bhandarkar said, “It is difficult to raise funds when you have a woman as the hero of the film, but I have been lucky to have made films that have done well at the box office, have won National Awards. You don’t get desirable budget with women-oriented film but that’s the case all over the world.”

Why the risk then? When asked this, Bhandarkar said, “I am comfortable making films from their (women’s) point of view. It gives the stories a different perspective.”

“When I went to producer with Chandni Bar, people didn’t want to put in money. I had to then make a film with multiple heroes called Trishakti. The film didn’t do well at all. Then I decided to make Chandni Bar and finally managed to get a producer on board. Thankfully Chandni Bar was commercially and critically acclaimed. That, I think gave me the courage to make more movies with women as my central characters. Though even today, people tell me the budgets that I am getting to make a film will increase if I make a film with a hero. But I am happy to make the kind of cinema I am making. Things are definitely changing though, especially with OTT, it gives everyone at opportunity to take these risks.”

Esha Gupta while talking about her experience said, “This year I complete a decade in industry and till 2019 it was just a dream to have an important role in a film. We were trying to make a film with Anupam Kher and Kumud Mishra, with me as a central character of a female cop, but it was very difficult to get funds for the film. When the film came in theatres, it didn’t do well at all but when the film came on Netflix, it was viewed widely. This shows that audiences want to watch women stories. Things are changing now but we need more directors who will have faith in our stories.”

Daphne Schmon who directed film ’The Eye’ with Shruti Haasan said, “It’s important to acknowledge that 51 percent of movie going audiences are women. We need to see our stories on screen. We need focus on having women directors and actors in forefront. We select around 10 women every year and help them getting finance for their films. It is important that we see men and women on equal footing as artists.”

The numbers (box office collection) of Wonder Woman shows that if a film is made well, it will do well even with a woman as the main character. We need to market these films well.” Schmon added.

When Bhandarkar spoke about how producers are looking at a good opening when they want a hero in the film, filmmaker Sudhir Mishra who is in the French Rivera attending the film festival, joined in the conversation, “No one now a days is giving a box office opening anyway.”

“The audiences are changing. They anyway are waiting for OTT release of films. The environment in the industry is changing rapidly. If we go to a film set, 50 percent of the crew is women. I hope we have more women filmmakers and I hope they tell our (Men’s) perspective too.

“France is one country where there are more women younger directors than men, I think. Slowly things are changing, we have Zoya and Reema and so many others in south. We still have a long way, but we are progressing.”

Talking about what how the government is contributing towards women empowerment in various fields, Hon’ble Minister of State, Information & Broadcasting Ministry, Govt of India Dr. L. Murugan said, “The women are really shining and will continue to shine in cinema. I don’t see cinema as a female or male centric cinema. There was a Tamil film called Magalir Mattum (Ladies Only) with women as central characters and it really did well. Vidya Balan is doing well. There are films like Padman that are focussing on women issues. There is a film festival called She Short film Festival dedicated to women creators, Aishwarya Sundar made an animation film that won national award and Guneet won an Oscar. I think our women are already successful in creating a beautiful space in Cinema. Nari Shakti is emerging under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi.”

Dr. Murugan also spoke about how NFDC has trained more than 100 women creators and technicians in film industry and the initiative called 75 Creative Minds of Tomorrow had more than 70 percent females this year. “Government has so many schemes dedicated to women power.” He concluded.

The star-studded '8 A.M. Metro' - An extraordinary album featuring Jubin Nautiyal, Jonita Gandhi and others

Get ready to embark on a soul-stirring musical expedition as the album of "8 A.M. Metro" makes its grand debut. This power-packed album composed by the incredibly talented Mark K Robin features an extraordinary ensemble of voices, including Nooran Sisters, Jubin Nautiyal, Vishal Mishra, Jonita Gandhi, Javed Ali, and more. Visualized with the dynamic duo Gulshan Devaiah and Saiyami Kher from the movie '8 A.M. Metro,' this album promises to captivate hearts and leave a lasting impression.

‘8 A.M. Metro’ stands out for its diverse genres, with each song evoking different emotions. The album comprises 7 tracks carefully crafted to resonate with various moods and emotions. receiving overwhelming responses. Woh Khuda (the album has two versions, one by the Nooran sisters and the other by Javed Ali) is a devotional and Sufi masterpiece that will transport listeners into a world of spiritual ecstasy. Ghoomey by Jubin Nautiyal is a vibrant and romantic dance number that will make your heart skip a beat. Phir Se Dil Toota by Vishal Mishra is a heartbreakingly beautiful romantic ballad that showcases the emotional depth of the characters. Immerse yourself in Hey Fikar by Jonita Gandhi, which has soothing melodies in a jazz-infused easy listening offering. Highlighting Mark K Robin's brilliant composition, the tracks create a harmonious blend that is sure to captivate all music enthusiasts.

Alongside these mesmerizing tracks, the album also features six poems written by the legendary Gulzar, which are eloquently narrated by the talented Saiyami Kher. This collaboration adds an extra layer of depth and artistic excellence to the overall experience of ‘8 A.M. Metro’.

“8 A.M. Metro is a very special film to me, and I believe the music complements the story beautifully as well. The album conveys the transformative power of music, capable of stirring deep emotions and taking listeners on an unforgettable journey. I have no doubt that '8 A.M. Metro' will leave an indelible mark on the hearts and souls of people," said Raj R, Director.

Gulshan Devaiah expressed, "Working on '8 A.M. Metro' has been a memorable experience. The songs are incredibly powerful, and the collaboration with Mark K Robin has been truly magical. We are so happy to have received immense love already. I’m very happy that I got to work with this wonderful team."

Saiyami Kher added, "It's an honor to narrate Gulzar Sahab's poems in this album. It’s something I can tell my grandchildren I have worked with Gulzar Saab twice! Truly blessed. The music composed by Mark K Robin beautifully complements the soul-stirring verses. Feels really good to see the album receive so much love."

Mark K Robin shared, "I am thrilled to present '8 A.M. Metro' to the world. This album has been a labor of love, and I am grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with such remarkable artists. I am extremely happy to see music resonating with listeners and taking them on a profound musical journey."

Directed by Raj R, the movie ‘8 A.M. Metro’ showcases how the mundane life of Iravati- a 29-year-old housewife living in Nanded - is thrown into mild disarray when she is asked to look after her pregnant sister, Riya, in Hyderabad after complications arise. Featuring Gulshan Devaiah and Saiyami Kher, the movie releases on 19th May in theatres. The musical album is available for streaming today on all major platforms.

Femina shines the spotlight on global star Priyanka Chopra Jonas in the May 2023 Cover Story

From beginning her journey as a Miss India in 2000, to making her name as a global star, Priyanka Chopra is now an exceptional multi-hyphenate – an actor, artiste, producer, mum, partner, restaurateur, philanthropist, author and investor with the world as her oyster. The one and only PCJ talks about her life and philosophy for living in an exclusive interview with Femina Editor-In-Chief Ambika Muttoo in the May 2023 issue.

Talking about her roles and characters as an actor, Priyanka revealed, “I think that a meaty role has never necessarily meant screen time to me. It has never been that I’m the face on the poster and I have to be in every scene. If it happens, that’s great, but a meaty role is a complex character to me. You have to peel off the layers. You don’t know what you’re going to have right off the bat.”

Priyanka added, “I think encouraging girls to have dreams is key. To be able to navigate their aspirations and not set a glass ceiling… We are so blessed to have parents who did that.”

She also spoke of how not only her immediate family but also her extended family including her aunts, cousins, and in-laws have always supported her.

Ambika Muttoo, Editor-in-Chief of Femina, said, “In this interview, Priyanka unpacked everything from the nature of fame, its pitfalls and positives, and what kind of roles she’s gravitating towards at this stage of her life. She remains eloquent and warm, but very obviously a force to be reckoned with, a reminder to all young women that they must chase their dreams with passion and determination.”

Grab the latest issue of Femina – out on stands and online now – to read about Priyanka Chopra Jonas’s journey.

Rapido taps into IPL Craze with new film of 'Bike Wali Taxi Sabse Saxi' campaign on JioCinemas platform

Rapido, India's leading two-wheeler taxi platform that provides convenient and affordable transportation solutions, has recently unveiled a new film of its highly anticipated and innovative marketing campaign, "Bike Wali Taxi, Sabse Saxi." This 360 degree marketing campaign aims to drive consideration for the category in the rapidly growing e-mobility space.

The newly released film showcases the exceptional value that Rapido Bike Taxis bring to people's daily lives, offering an ideal solution for everyday commutes. With a focus on convenience, quickness, and affordability, the campaign presents these key offerings in a highly engaging and entertaining manner, making it a compelling choice for efficient and cost-effective travel.

The heart-warming video captures a poignant moment, depicting the vulnerability of an elderly man standing on the opposite side of a bustling road and bravely taking a daring leap across a muddy puddle. In a moment that perfectly encapsulates the essence of the "Bike Wali Taxi, Sabse Saxi" campaign, he swiftly reaches for his phone and books a Rapido bike ride through the app. A Rapido captain arrives promptly, demonstrating utmost care and empathy as they assist the elderly man onto the bike, offering a reassuring smile, and safely transporting him to his destination.

Pawandip Singh, Vice President Marketing, Rapido, expressed his excitement about the new video release, stating, "We are thrilled to launch the latest video of our 'Bike Wali Taxi, Sabse Saxi' campaign. This film takes our messaging and unique storytelling to new heights, illustrating the incredible benefits of Rapido Bike Taxis in a heart-warming and relatable way. It showcases how we provide a quick and convenient transportation solution that simplifies the lives of our customers. The 'Bike Wali Taxi, Sabse Saxi' campaign is a testament to Rapido's commitment to providing innovative and user-centric solutions and positioning ourselves as the go-to choice for hassle-free and affordable transportation."

Enormous, the renowned creative agency, has crafted captivating campaign films that highlight Rapido Bike-Taxi as a smart mode of transportation in various scenarios. Prior to this, Rapido introduced two other films as part of the campaign, featuring a young man and woman who stand out from their individual queues and book an instant ride through the Rapido bike app. Since its initial launch, the campaign has garnered widespread popularity, with the catchy jingle 'Bike Wali Taxi, Sabse Saxi' contributing to the brand's cool and edgy persona on social media. Together, these films aim to position Rapido as the go-to choice for individuals seeking a hassle-free and cost-effective mode of travel.

In a ground-breaking move, Rapido has adopted a digital-first approach and partnered with the popular OTT platform JioCinema to expand its audience reach. Leveraging the massive viewership and popularity of the Indian Premier League (IPL), JioCinema will serve as the primary channel for the campaign, marking an exciting collaboration between the two platforms. Subsequently, the campaign will be amplified through television, while outdoor advertising will serve as an effective recall channel.

Rapido remains dedicated to addressing the daily commuting challenges faced by its valued customers and enhancing their travel experiences. With an impressive track record of completing 10 lakh daily rides across more than 100 cities in India, the brand has become the preferred choice for the masses seeking cost-effective, fuel-efficient, and time-saving transportation services, especially during peak traffic hours.

Rapido is one of the leading taxi services spread widely across all of India from Tier I to Tier III cities. The app allows you to book bike taxis and auto taxis with the minimum wait time, and maximum safety and is super easy on your pockets.

Netflix & Hansal Mehta collaborate on thrilling drama series, Scoop

When drive, determination, and the never-ending chase to break the Scoop - breaks the journalist, a harrowing sequence of events follows. Netflix dropped the trailer for Hansal Mehta’s upcoming crime drama - Scoop today. The gripping trailer for Scoop showcases society’s rush to judgment as Jagruti, a headline-writing journalist is caught between the nexus of the police, the underworld, and the media. One single phone call sets off a chain of events. 

Inspired by real events and Jigna Vora’s memoir, Behind Bars in Byculla: My Days in Prison - the series is produced by Matchbox Shots and created by Hansal Mehta and Mrunmayee Lagoo Waikul. The genre-defining drama series is set to premiere on Netflix on June 2nd, 2023. Scoop marks Hansal Mehta and Netflix’s maiden partnership with the first season of a franchise chronicling the shocking sequence of events that unravel for an unsuspecting journalist.

Speaking about creating the first season of Scoop, director and co-creator Hansal Mehta said, "As a filmmaker, my intention is to always tell stories that go beyond a weekend. In Scoop, I found that: a story that speaks urgently to our post truth times. Collaborating with someone as gifted as Mrunmayee brought in a sensibility that deeply enriched the show. All of this would not have been possible without Netflix and Matchbox Shots who nurtured our deep dive into the personal and professional world of Jagruti Pathak, allowing our vision to blossom. With Netflix, the process of creation is always exciting and collaborative. Season one is just the beginning. I hope to keep exploring the story-rich world of media even further.”

Monika Shergill, Vice President - Content - Netflix India said, “Scoop brings to life the high stakes world of crime reporting through a dynamic and driven journalist, Jagruti Pathak. Inspired by real events, it's a powerful, untold story of the unexpected cost of ambition that can make a victim out of a winner in a second. Partnering and enabling the vision and genius of Hansal Mehta and Mrunmayee Lagoo Waikul and collaborating with Matchbox Shots has been a great ride. Scoop with its powerhouse performances and bingeable drama will be a defining series for all audiences in India.”

Adding to this, Producer Sarita Patil of Matchbox Shots said, “Matchbox Shots is thrilled to collaborate with Netflix once more. After the success of Monica, O My Darling, Scoop will be our first series and we are excited to bring our best work to the service. We believe in the power of storytelling to inspire and move audiences. With our passion for creating original content, Hansal Mehta’s epic storytelling and Netflix's reach, we are confident that Scoop will capture the hearts and minds of viewers around the world.”

With a stellar cast that includes Karishma Tanna, Mohammad Zeeshan Ayyub, Harman Baweja, Deven Bhojani, Tannishtha Chatterjee, Tejasvini Kolhapure, Shikha Talsania, Tanmay Dhanania, Prosenjit Chatterjee, Inayat Sood, Swaroopa Ghosh, Malhar Thakar, Shikha Talsania, Ira Dubey, Ishita Arun, Sanat Vyas and Aseem Hattangadi, it is produced by Matchbox Shots, Sarita Patil & Dikssha Jyote Routray and created by Hansal Mehta and Mrunmayee Lagoo Waikul. Catch this breaking Scoop exclusively on Netflix on the 2nd of June, 2023.

You can have a first look here. Stay tuned for more updates

Cannes Film Festival to witness Poster and Trailer launch of 54th IFFI

Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Dr L.Murugan will lead an Indian Delegation to Cannes International Film Festival this year. Walking in traditional Tamil attire ‘Veshti’ at the red carpet on Cannes Inaugural Day showcasing our rich Indian Culture Dr Murugan will be accompanied by filmmaker Ms Guneet Monga of The Elephant Whisperers fame, Ms Manushi Chillar, Indian actress, model and the winner of the Miss World 2017, Ms Esha Gupta - acclaimed actress of the Indian Cinema & Kangabam Tomba - acclaimed Manipuri Actor, whose restored film ‘Ishanau’, is being screened in Cannes Classic Section this year.

The India Pavilion is being conceptualised and designed by National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad with the theme - ‘Showcasing India’s Creative Economy’ to the global community. The pavilion design has been inspired by the Saraswati Yantra, the abstract representation of goddess Saraswati, keeper of knowledge, music, art, speech, wisdom and learning.The colours of the pavilion draw inspiration from the vibrant colours of India’s national flag – saffron, white, and green, and blue. Saffron for the strength and courage of the country, white for the inner peace and truth, green for showcasing fertility, growth, and auspiciousness of the land, and blue for the law of dharma and truth. India has a huge reservoir of talent and the Indian Pavilion will provide the platform to the Indian Film community  to sign distribution deals, greenlight scripts, crack production collaborations and simply network with the world’s major entertainment and media players.

Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Shri Anurag Thakur will address the Inaugural Session through a video message to showcase India as a global hub for content creation at the 76th edition of Cannes's festival.

Four Indian films have made it to the official selection in Cannes Film Festival. Kanu Behl’s Agra will be his second film to have its world premiere at Cannes, at the Directors’ Fortnight. His 2014 debut film, Titli, was unveiled at the 'Un Certain Regard' section. Anurag Kashyap’s Kennedy is being screened in Midnight Screenings and Nehemich in the La Cinef section of the Festival de Cannes. Apart from these, many Indian films are slotted for being screened in Marche du Films.

A restored Manipuri film ‘Ishanhou’, will be showcased in the ‘Classics’ section. The movie was previously played in the festival’s 'Un Certain Regard' section in 1991 and its film reels were preserved by the National Film Archive of India. The Manipur State Film Development Society got the film restored through the Film Heritage Foundation & Prasad Film Labs.

The eclectic bouquet of Indian films being screened in the segments of both Festival de Cannes & marche du Films, underlines that Indian cinema has truly come of age.

A series of interactive sessions will be organised throughout the festival at India Pavilion. The key sessions planned are:

• Showcasing India as the Complete Filming Destination & Co-Production engagement with Global Film Commissions will foster filming in India. It will not only give impetus to the growth of our film sector but also has potential to enormously boost tourism in the country. Incentives announced last year at Cannes, would be pitched to get more filmmakers to India.
• Facilitating distribution collaboration between Nations will break the barriers of our films travelling across world markets
• Engaging with other key Film Markets and Festivals of the World and drawing synergies for IFFI.
• She Shines: Contribution of Women in Cinema would highlight the women presence in filmmaking is more significant than just employment, it contributes to a greater cultural issue.

Session on the format of ‘75 Creative Minds of Tomorrow’ started to nurture young film talents in IFFI, 2020, would showcase its success story and also facilitate in getting more collaborations for it.

Cannes has always been special for both India and France and will remain a coveted space for cultural exchange. Last year, India was the ‘Country of Honour’ at the Marche du Cannes. Now with the success of Indian Films at Oscars this year, of which RRR already has the world dancing to “Naatu Naatu” and The Elephant Whisperers winning Oscar in the Best Documentary Short Category shows the growing reach of our Indian Stories.

The first "Beauty with a Purpose" winner at Miss World, actress Pooja Chopra gets emotional

Pooja Chopra who won the title of Femina Miss India and the first "Beauty with a Purpose" winner at Miss World got emotional and shared a beautiful picture and a heartfelt message for her mother Neera Chopra.

At a time when most Bollywood celebrities are flooding the social media with pictures of their mothers on Mother's Day,Pooja decided to wish her fans and also urged them to not treat a girl child any differently from a boy. The post has some emotional incidents from Pooja’s childhood where she wrote about her single mother’s sacrifices and love and how she will always be her inspiration and hero.

Pooja Chopra went on to say,  "As I scrolled through my phone to find ‘the most perfect’ picture to post on Instagram for Mother’s Day, I came across more than a ton of ‘more-than-perfect’ memories. Nostalgia hits hard when you don’t stop and keep looking, spinning years, even decades. I have very few pictures from my childhood, but I vividly remember the memories of when they were all taken. Camera was a luxury while growing up as was having 3 square meals."

"Childhood pictures took me back to a time when I hated my mother leaving me and going to work every morning. I never understood why she had to go to work every day when all my other friends mum’s were home with them all day long. As a kid I thought maybe she didn’t love me enough, but it was only much later that I realized, she went to work only because she loved us more than she loved anything else in the world! I can only imagine the hardships you went through all by yourself and still showed us your big bright smile. Loved us both unconditionally and sacrificed so much silently. I still wonder how easy you made it seem, being the best mother and a perfect father at the same time," added Pooja.

"To the most resilient woman I know. My Mother. As a single mom you took on the world with courage and grace. You sacrificed, you toiled, you never gave up, you loved us with all that you had and gave us the best you possibly could. You’re my hero maa, my only source of motivation and strength. All I wish to do in this life is to make you proud, so proud that you forget all past pain and sadnesses. I know you expect nothing from me, from us but we wish to give you the world," she went on to add.

"The narrative that has followed me throughout my life has been “Abandoned by my father. Today I would like to change that narrative and proudly proclaim, “Chosen by my mother” Thank you for choosing me mumma❤️ You give me a sense of belonging and purpose. #ProudToBeAGirl  #MothersDayEveryDay. To all those who feel that the birth of a boy is a blessing and that of a girl is a burden, let me tell you it’s the girls like Avani Chaturvedi, Mithali Raj, Mary Kom, Deepa Mallik, Priyanka Chopra and so many others who have made our country proud. Gender should not define a child’s potential or the love they deserve. I wish no woman was ever shown the door or turned away just because she delivered a baby girl,” concluded Pooja Chopra on an emotional note.

Reliance Entertainment & Canrus Productions to release ‘Sari’ in UK & Ireland on May 19th

Get ready to be swept off your feet by the enchanting love story of ‘Sari’ as Reliance Entertainment and Canrus Productions announce the release of the Marathi romantic drama in UK and Ireland cinemas on May 19th, 2023. After receiving a positive response in India, the film, written and directed by Ashoka K. S. and produced by Dr. Suresh Nagpal and Akash Nagpal, is all set to make its international debut and captivate audiences with its heart-touching narrative.

Life sometimes comes to a point where no one can tell what will happen next. That is why it is said - Life is full of surprises and miracles. The story of Marathi film ‘Sari’ is based on these lines. Director Ashoka K. S., who is well-known for his critically acclaimed horror flick ‘6-5=2’ and commercially successful film ‘Dia,’ brings his unique vision and expertise to ‘Sari.’ The film is a love story with a twist, following the lives of young lovers who experience miraculous events that no one could have imagined. With its intriguing plot, ‘Sari’ promises to be a romantic drama with emotional depth that will leave a lasting impression on audiences.

Starring Ajinkya Raut, Ritika Shrotri, Prithvi Amber, and Mrinal Kulkarni in lead roles, ‘Sari’ is a beautifully crafted film that showcases the talent of Marathi artists. Presented by Canrus Productions and distributed by Reliance Entertainment, the film is set to resonate with all film enthusiasts who have a penchant for romantic dramas.

Dhruv Sinha, Head Overseas Businesses at Reliance Entertainment, expressed his excitement for the release of ‘Sari’ in UK and Ireland cinemas, saying, “We are thrilled to bring this Marathi romantic drama to international audiences and hope that it will strike a chord with viewers in the UK and Ireland as well.”

Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the captivating love story of ‘Sari’ as it hits the big screens in India today and on 19 May in UK & Ireland. The film is distributed by Reliance Entertainment Studios UK in UK & Ireland. Get ready to be swept off your feet by this beautifully crafted film that will leave you feeling emotionally moved!

Reliance Entertainment is one of India’s leading film and entertainment company that is engaged in the creation and distribution of content across Films, Streaming, TV, Animation, Gaming, and Digital platforms.

Meet Bro’s new song ‘Confession-Meri Wari Ae’ features Rajniesh Duggal & Karishma Sharma

After giving many hit music videos to audience, Actress Karishma Sharma is again back with her new song ‘Confession-Meri Wari Ae’ by Ta Ra Rum Music. Supermodel turned Actor Rajneish Duggal is playing the lead in the song and has given scintillating performance.

Crooned & composed by Meet Bros, penned & rapped by Star Boy LOC, CONFESSION is a captivating blend of Indie-Punjabi with a unique sound that is sure to capture the hearts of music lovers around the world. It is a deeply personal song that explores LOVE BREAK UP KARMA. The lyrics are both vulnerable and empowering, touching on MERI WARI AE. The melody is haunting, and the vocals are powerful, delivering a message that is both raw and emotional. The song has been produced by Puskur Ram Mohan Rao and Arzad Naaz.

“According to me I feel the song has a lot of meaning and knowing Manmeet and Harmeet, they are very spiritual people. They believe in Karma and when you are younger in life you tend to play with people’s heart and song is all about that we shouldn’t play with people’s heart or feelings or emotions because it’s gonna come back to you and Karma is real that’s why and specially I love the LOC part it’s really nice and raw. It’s emotional and it has a lot of truth in it. To everyone out there I would like to say that don’t play people’s heart, its gonna come back to you. Be Kind and Don’t hurt people,” said actress Karishma Sharma.

“I absolutely loved being a part of this song - confession. In fact grateful to Manmeet and Harmeet bro for making me an integral part of it. It’s all about love and karma and how a man thinks that he can get away with anything even if he cheats. He always wants his woman to be a one-man woman. With this song Meet bros and Star boy LOC brings forward the fact that at some point it can be your turn too. So be kind, be Honest and Loyal or you will have to repent. Love love love the way it’s sung - the use of Punjabi and English and the rap. I’m sure the gen Y and Gen Z are gonna love this song by the Gen X,” concluded Rajneish Duggal.

Witness the extraordinary tale of 'Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth' exclusively on Zing

5 Korean Superstars all in 1 K-Drama! This summer, Zing brings its first-period K-Drama Hwarang for its viewers. With the most interesting list of cast members, this K-drama is a story of young warriors who go through a series of trials and tribulations and become true leaders. Gear up to watch the show on Zing from 8th May 2023 in the Hallyu Time Slot from 6 pm to 7 pm.

The show follows Queen Jiso (Kim Ji-soo) as she takes the throne of the Silla Kingdom and creates a group of young men called Hwarang, including her son Sammaekjong (Park Hyung-Sik), to safeguard her people and protect secrets associated with the realm. The series revolves around their friendships, romance, and battles against those who seek to overthrow the monarchy. Alongside all the power-packed action, the audience will get a sweet glimpse of a coming-of-age romance. The show is a must-watch for fans of action, romance, and historical dramas.

Hwarang will charm its way into the hearts of the audience because of its star-studded cast line-up featuring the versatile and charming Park Seo Joon, the exceptionally talented Park Hyung Sik, popular K-pop idol Choi Min Ho, a member of one of the most successful bands known globally BTS' V, the actor that exudes charisma Do Ji Han, extremely talented actress Go Ara and other actors like Cho Yoon-woo, Lee Da-in, Yoo Jae-Myung, Seo Yea-ji, Kim Chang-wan, Kim Ji-soo, and Jin Ju-Hyung and more.

Commenting about the same, Arghya Roy Chowdhury, Chief Channel Officer - Zing shared, “Hwarang is a period romantic drama that showcases an endearing chemistry between the lead characters. This youth-based show brings alive the story of young men who find passion, friendship, and love amidst their journey in the Korean Kingdom of Silla. We are thrilled to air this star-studded & most talked about drama for our viewers in our Hallyu Time Slot this May.”

Tune in to Zing from 8th May to witness an exclusively available K-drama Hwarang in the Hallyu Time slot, from 6 pm to 7 pm!

Charles Enterprises is all set to hit the theatres pan India and globally on 19th May

Joy Movie Production and Reliance Entertainment are proud to announce the release of Charles Enterprises, a social satire, in India and globally on the 19th of May. The film is directed by Subhash Lalitha Subrahmanian. The family drama, entwined with humour, thrill, friendship and love will see a pan- India and overseas release in markets of USA, Canada, UK and Australia.

Charles Enterprises is a fascinating depiction of Ravi Kumaraswamy’s life, a young man from Kochi suffering from night blindness, a congenital disability. Ravi steals a Ganesha idol from his mother, Gomathi, a profound devotee, and later tries to overcome the ensuing crises and reclaim his life, which becomes more difficult due to the social situation thoroughly affected by the pandemic.

Subhash Lalitha Subrahmanian, a passionate filmmaker started his creative career as a director by making short films and musical promos in Malayalam & Tamil. His short films were selected for the international short film festival of Kerala, and many of them have gone on to win awards.

Looking forward to the release of Charles Enterprises, Director Subhash Subrahmanian discussed the movie, saying, “The film carries a unique style in narrating the story of a Ganesha idol and several people surrounding it in the backdrop of an urban area. The storytelling method is far from the usual filmmaking and has never been seen in Malayalam cinema. The dynamic and zestful pace of the movie makes it a treat to the audience’s eyes and minds. Even the genre of the film is something that will entice the audience comprising both families and youngsters.”

The movie features an ensemble cast that includes Urvashi, Kalaiyarasan, Balu Varghese, Guru Somasundaram, Sujith Shankar, Manikandan R. Achari, bhanu and Abhija Shivakala. The film is directed by Subhash Lalitha Subrahmanian and is produced by Dr. Ajith Joy & Joy Movie Production.

Sameer Chopra, VP- Marketing Head, Reliance Entertainment, expressed, “We are delighted to announce our partnership with Joy Movie Production to showcase Charles Enterprises to Indian and international audiences. Our goal is to show people content-rich films that give them an all-around experience as well as pure entertainment.”

Charles Enterprises, a Reliance Entertainment Release pan India and globally, is all set to hit the theatres on 19th May. The film promises to be a captivating watch and is expected to strike a chord with film buffs.

Goutam Ghose’s short film Somoyer Smritimala (Memories of Time) released by Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films

Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films released its latest short film titled ‘Somoyer Smritimala’ (Memories of Time) today. Directed by Goutam Ghose, the 35-minute film captures the sense of uncertainty and discomfort brought on by the lockdown, through the perspective of a couple living in the heart of Kolkata – Kabir Basu (played by Suman Mukhopadhyay), a writer in his late 40s, and his wife Sumita (played by Gargee Roy Chowdhury), a teacher.

‘Somoyer Smritimala’ is a poignant film set during the initial phase of the pandemic’; ‘25th March 2020 – Nationwide Lockdown’, says a frame early in the film. The film begins with Kabir and Sumita’s quest for fresh air and sanity as they set out on a road trip to the countryside. Through the course of their journey, the film travels back and forth in time, capturing the challenges brought on by the pandemic. From virtual classrooms and eerie hospitals to mental health concerns and the woes of migrant workers, the short film throws light on the unprecedented consequences of the Covid-19 outbreak in a nuanced manner.

Speaking about the short film, filmmaker Goutam Ghose said, “It is virtually impossible to capture the emotions experienced during the pandemic in 35 minutes. Somoyer Smritimala is an attempt to portray, through the lens of a couple living in Kolkata, how the world around us changed during the pandemic. It explores how the pandemic impacted relationships and the human psyche in mysterious ways. I think the film will strongly resonate with the audience of Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films.”

Actor Suman Mukhopadhyay shared, “The Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films platform is popular for the intriguing stories it brings to the viewers. Somoyer Smritimala is unique in how it unveils the adversities brought on by the pandemic and consequent lockdowns. My character, Kabir Basu, likes to read and write about socio-political matters. It’s his creative pursuits and the everyday moments with his wife that he finds peace in while navigating the challenges through the lockdowns. It’s been a privilege to work with Goutam Ghose and be a part of this film.”

Actor Gargee Roy Chowdhury added, “My character, Sumita, who is a teacher, struggles to cope with the isolation brought on by the pandemic. I think a lot of viewers will relate to that. But in the end, she finds comfort in nature. It was surreal revisiting the memories of the pandemic and portraying the hard times that we have all been through. The short film is led by two of the most iconic names in filmmaking – Goutam Ghose and Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films. The experience has been nothing short of memorable.”

Somoyer Smritimala will premier exclusively on Royal Stag Barrel Select’s Large Short Films YouTube Channel, a platform to watch the most original and inspiring short films featuring some of the finest actors and directors in India.

Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films has become ‘the’ destination for Indian short films where viewers can experience the taste of great films. The platform has collaborated with successful storytellers from Bollywood who truly stand for originality and creativity. Large Short Films has evolved to create an ecosystem for aspiring and established directors alike to bring world class storytelling to curious and deciphering audiences.

Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films has released some of the most prodigious and award-winning short films with renowned artists and directors from the industry which truly reflects originality, imagination and perfection. Ahalya, Chutney, Devi and Anukul are just some of the phenomenal films that have been released on this platform. Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films as a platform for original short films has been the pioneer in popularizing this genre of filmmaking.

You can watch ‘Somoyer Smritimala’ here: