Mumbai Big Fm’s Big Impact Awards 2025 witnesses a star-studded evening with Bobby Deol, Dia Mirza, Divya Khossla, Taha Shah and more in attendance!

Mumbai witnessed the grand third edition of Big FM’s Big Impact Awards, celebrating those making a lasting impact across industries. The event honored businesses and individuals who are redefining success with purpose and innovation. Adding to the evening’s grandeur, renowned personalities from the entertainment industry, including Bobby Deol, Amruta Fadnavis, Dia Mirza, Divya Khossla, Taha Shah Badussha, Karan Veer Mehra, Hina Khan, Shantanu Maheshwari, Aditi Govitrikar, Ridhi Dogra, Varun Sood, Anjini Dhawan, Deepshika Deshmukh, Maahi Mukherjee, Miss India winners – Nandini Guptaa, Rekha Pandey and Nikita Porwal amongst others and many more graced the occasion.

This year, the Big Impact Awards shined a spotlight on businesses and changemakers who went beyond conventional success, championing purpose over profit, creativity over convention and boldness over routine. Aligned with BIG FM’s ethos of ‘Embracing Unconventional Excellence,’ the awards once again paid tribute to Mumbai’s indomitable spirit, celebrating those who drive meaningful change. Honorees were presented with the prestigious Big Impact trophy and certificates, reinforcing BIG FM’s commitment to recognizing those who make a real difference.

Renowned artists from the entertainment industry were celebrated at the Big Impact Awards, recognizing their remarkable contributions and lasting influence. The prestigious awards recognized several outstanding achievers across various categories. Amruta Fadnavis was honored as the ‘BIG Impact Creator – Inspirational Woman Achiever of the Year,’ while Bobby Deol was awarded the ‘BIG Impact Creator – Game Changer in the Entertainment Industry.’ Divya Khossla won the ‘BIG Impact Best Actress Award for Savi.’ Karan Veer Mehra was recognized as the ‘BIG Impact Creator – The Reality Star.’ The ‘BIG Impact Creator - Inspiring Icon in Entertainment Industry’ was awarded to Hina Khan, Deepshikha Deshmukh received the ‘BIG Impact Creator - Producer in Entertainment Industry’ and Dr. Aditi Govitrikar was given the ‘BIG Impact Creator - Fitness and Wellness Icon’ award. In the digital space, Ridhi Dogra won the ‘BIG Impact Creator – Outstanding Performer in OTT’ and Taha Shah Badussha received the ‘BIG Impact Creator – Breakout Performer of the Year’ award. Shantanu Maheshwari and Varun Sood were both recognized as ‘BIG Impact Creators – Promising Stars in the Entertainment Industry.’ Anjini Dhawan was celebrated as the ‘BIG Impact Creator – Next Gen Icon of the Year,’ Maahi Mukherjee bagged the ‘BIG Impact Creator – Rising Star in Music’ while Malini Agarwal was named the ‘BIG Impact Creator – Influencer of the Year.’

The BIG IMPACT Awards 2025 was presented by LIC Housing Finance Ltd., with Mahindra & Mahindra as the Drive-in Partner, Meyer Vitabiotics and Triumph as Co-Powered Partners, Bajaj Freedom as the Auto Partner, SBI Mutual Fund as the Associate Partner and Bank of India as the Banking partner. With yet another successful edition, BIG FM continues to set new benchmarks for celebrating impact businesses of the city that have left a lasting impression!

Rajat Sharma’s Birthday bash: A Night of Stars & Cricket Triumph

Media titan Rajat Sharma’s birthday resonated with star power and patriotic fervor. A glittering celebration, hosted by wife Ritu Dhawan, unfolded at Grappa Bar, where Bollywood megastar Salman Khan, singer-composers Jasbir Jassi and Anu Malik, celebrity director Madhur Bhandarkar, political icons like; Piyush Goel, Vasundhara Raje, Kamal Nath,Raghav Chadha, Manoj Tiwari joined. Kavita Bharatiya, Tikka Shatrujit Singh and Sunil Sethi from the world of fashion and Arpita Khan Sharma. Business Leaders like C K Birla, Rajan Mittal Hari Bharatiya, Ajay Singh, Sandeep Jajodia, Ajay Shriram along with famous Judges, lawyers, doctors were among the distinguished guests who gathered to raise a toast to Sharma’s incredible journey.

The evening witnessed conversations flowing effortlessly over fine drinks and dinner, with laughter echoing through the venue, making it an evening to remember. India’s thrilling six-wicket cricket victory over Pakistan transformed the already joyous celebration into a double triumph, with guests erupting in cheers and applause. The evening was a vibrant testament to Sharma’s enduring influence, showcasing the deep friendships he has cultivated across diverse fields.

Earlier in the week, social media platforms were flooded with warm wishes from fans, colleagues, and admirers, recognizing his unparalleled contributions to Indian journalism. The birthday bash served as a powerful reminder of Sharma’s ability to unite people, celebrating not only his personal milestone but also the shared passions that bind the nation.

Ultimately, the evening transcended a simple birthday party, evolving into a celebration of enduring friendships, professional achievements, and the shared love for cricket that unites India.

Get Ready to vibe with Mansimran Sandhu as he unveils his playful new single ‘WYD’

Following the release of his latest single, Milde Milde, Rising music sensation and Punjabi singer Mansimran Sandhu is back with a track that’s impossible to ignore – ‘WYD’. The song is a playful, swagger-filled anthem that perfectly captures the rush of youthful attraction. ‘WYD’ features hard-hitting, infectious production by renowned producer Hiten, and blends contemporary Punjabi vibes with urban pop fusion, making it both fresh and timeless.

Written and sung by Mansimran himself, the song captures the thrill of attraction between two people who know exactly what they want. The track is a playful yet passionate conversation between a man and a woman who challenge each other in a game of charm and confidence. The dynamic lyrics and smooth vocals bring out the thrill of the chase, making ‘WYD’ the perfect soundtrack for anyone caught up in the excitement of flirtation.

Talking about the song, Mansimran Sandhu shares, “WYD is that perfect mix of fun and fire. It’s about someone who keeps you on your toes, and you can’t help but be drawn in. Writing this track was effortless because it’s real—it’s that vibe you feel when the chemistry is just right. Hiten’s production brought the track to life with the perfect energy. I hope that the listeners relate with the track, feel that rush of attraction, and enjoy every beat.”

Mansimran has already made his mark with viral songs like Milde Milde, and Paani Vargiyan Akhaan. WYD follows in that same musical tradition, with its beautiful melody and tasteful composition.

Whether you're cruising in the car, hitting the dance floor, or just vibing on your own, this track is sure to be the soundtrack to your moments of confidence and fun.

Filmfare’s February cover star Veer Pahariya talks passion, perseverance, and making his mark in showbiz as a first-generation artist

Veer Pahariya graces the February cover issue of Filmfare, emerging as a fresh talent in the entertainment industry. With a deep-rooted passion for acting, music, and storytelling, he embodies a new generation of artists who refuse to be boxed in.  As he continues to grow and push boundaries, Veer is undoubtedly a talent to watch out for in Hindi Cinema. Veer Pahariya made his Bollywood debut earlier this year, starring alongside Akshay Kumar in the film Sky Force. Filmfare, one of the country’s most prestigious entertainment magazines renowned for celebrating cinema, fashion, and emerging talents in the industry, serves as the perfect platform for Veer’s story, marked by dedication, perseverance, and a drive to redefine the norms.

In an exclusive chat with Filmfare, Veer reflected on his dream. He shared, “I think it was my lifelong dream to become an actor. I can’t remember a time when I didn’t want this. When I was about five years old, I used to collect Filmfare magazines. I still have them in my collection."

Highlighting his early hustle before stepping into the world of films, Veer recalled, "I had a YouTube channel where I built a small audience and would get paid for performing at college festivals and schools. I also worked on a few ad jingles."

Discussing Sky Force, Veer revealed how he approached the pressures of a high-profile debut with a sense of gratitude, highlighting, "I didn’t have any fear at all before Sky Force released. I was just grateful for the opportunity to live my dream. Every day on earth is a good day." He recounted his experience sharing the screen space with Akshay Kumar, noting, “Working with Akshay sir was overwhelming at first because he’s someone we’ve all grown up watching. But when I went on the set, he was so welcoming and comforting that he immediately broke the ice with me.”

Veer’s transformation for the role of Squadron Leader T Krishna Vijaya in the film was drastic – both physically and mentally. Recalling his transformation for the character, he shared, “On the day of the look test for Sky Force, I had long hair and a beard, and they transformed me completely. I had no idea what the film was about at that point. They cut my hair short, gave me a military-style moustache and put me in overalls. Months later, I heard the narration, and it was an easy decision."

Cementing his stance as a disruptor in the industry, Veer said, "I know I don’t look like a typical hero. But I’m aware of my strengths and weaknesses. I’m here to bring something new to the table. I’m aiming to break barriers and change the game."

On his self-made journey, Veer acknowledged the realities of navigating Bollywood without a legacy to lean on, saying, "I’m the first artiste in my family. So, my association with the industry is purely based on the work I’ve done. Anyone who comes to Mumbai gets associated with people from the film industry." Talking about his early inspirations, he revealed, “Shah Rukh Khan and Hrithik Roshan were my early inspirations. I also really admire Sushant Singh Rajput’s choice of roles; he had such an original voice.”

Filmfare’s February issue chronicles and celebrates all that’s hot and happening in the world of movies and OTT.

Panther represents his roots loud & proud in his new latest single ‘Uttar Pradesh’

Anubhav Shukla aka Panther, the unstoppable force in the Indian hip hop industry, has dropped his latest track, Uttar Pradesh, and it’s already taking the scene by storm. This sonic gem pays homage to the cultural heartbeat of India’s heartland, blending electrifying beats with pure, unapologetic Hip Hop energy. With a sound that's both bold and authentic, Uttar Pradesh is a high-energy ride that captures the raw spirit of the region while delivering an irresistibly catchy vibe that’ll have you hooked from the first beat. Now exclusively signed with Sony Music, Panther cements his position as a trailblazer in the Indian hip-hop scene.

Panther is turning up the heat once more, solidifying his dominance in the Indian Hip-Hop scene with his razor-sharp bars and unstoppable flow. Uttar Pradesh is a high-energy track packed with infectious beats and seamless rap, all wrapped in the authentic vibe of his homeland. This song is a love letter to the heart and soul of Uttar Pradesh. The music video brings the state’s grandeur to life, from the towering Rumi Darwaza in Lucknow to the soulful ghats of Varanasi. Every frame is a cinematic tribute to the rich culture, history, and pride of this legendary land. Get ready to dive into a journey that blends history, hip-hop, and unfiltered pride.

While sharing his inspiration behind ‘Uttar Pradesh’, Panther shares "It's a song that speaks to the raw energy, pride, and swagger of being from Uttar Pradesh. This track captures the attitude of its people, the confidence that flows through every street and every soul. It’s my way of honouring the spirit of Uttar Pradesh, and I hope everyone feels the power and passion behind it.”

Dripping with Uttar Pradesh’s pride and raw desi swag, the song is a whole cultural movement. Rooted in the heart of Uttar Pradesh, the song flexes the confidence, grit, and street charisma of its people, all through the fire of Indian hip-hop. Get ready for a sonic anthem that roars louder than ever!

Wah Ustad: A Reality Show to discover India’s hidden musical gem features Sandesh Gour in Promo

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and Doordarshan, has launched Wah Ustad, an extraordinary classical and semi-classical music talent hunt, under the Create in India Challenges, a flagship initiative of WAVES 2025.It aims to nurture exceptional talent in Hindustani, Carnatic, and soulful Sufi music while preserving and promoting India’s rich musical legacy.

Envisioned with the expertise of the esteemed "Dilli Gharana," Wah Ustad will serve as a platform for young, classically trained vocalists aged 18 and above. Open to global participation, the program invites entries from talented individuals with a passion for Hindustani or Carnatic music, Sufi singing, and semi-classical genres.

The journey for participants has already begun with online registrations through the Dilli Durbar portal. This will progress to regional auditions, thematic episodes, and ultimately culminating in a grand finale at WAVES 2025 in Mumbai. The top five finalists will compete for the coveted title, with the winner receiving a cash prize, mentorship opportunities, recording contracts, and nationwide recognition.

With 26 episodes airing on Doordarshan, Wah Ustad will celebrate India’s cultural heritage while inspiring the next generation of musicians. By blending traditional expertise with modern technology, the program promises to highlight the soulful charm of classical music and its relevance in today’s world.

The Promo Song of the reality show “Wah Ustad”, features Sufi Singer and representative of the Dilli Gharana Vusat Iqbal Khan, Ustad Imran Khan & Ustad Iqbal Ahmed Khan followed by Singer Manmeet who introduces the reality show. The theme-based anthem of the show features Sandesh Gour with Suzanna Reddy. Sandesh Gour who has to his credit many TV shows on leading channels as well as Doordarshan has also featured as a lead in movies like Meeradha, Jhing Premachi, Bhala Manus, Daai, Advilo, as well as a couple of web series and music videos.

As part of the CIC Challenge, Wah Ustad is more than just a reality show—it’s a grand celebration of our cultural heritage and a platform dedicated to honoring India’s rich and timeless musical traditions. By showcasing extraordinary talent, it not only preserves our legacy but also empowers the next generation of musicians to carry it forward with passion and innovation.

Delegation from Indian Cinema visits Iran

It was an exciting and significant event for strengthening the relationship between Iranian and Indian cinema! The collaboration between the General Department of Media and Cyberspace Cooperation of the Islamic Culture and Relations Organization and the Iranian Culture House in Mumbai during the Fajr decade of the Islamic Revolution in Tehran was a great platform for cultural exchange.

Having representatives from key Indian film festivals including the Chairman of the 19th edition of Ayodhya Film Festival as well as the Chairman & Founder of the 13th edition of the Lakecity International Film Festival Prof. Dr. Mohan Das, as well as the Festival Director of Chennai International Film Festival AVM  Shanmugam attend the 43rd Fajr International Film Festival provided an excellent opportunity for networking, dialogue, and the potential for future collaborations in film production and distribution between the two countries. This type of initiative can help foster mutual understanding, showcase diverse perspectives, and promote the global recognition of Iranian cinema.

By focusing on "Effective and Influential Storytelling of Iran and the Islamic Revolution," the initiative seems to be not only about film as an art form but also about conveying important historical and cultural narratives. These meetings and work programs likely provided a platform for both Iranian and Indian film industry professionals to explore how they can collaborate on storytelling that resonates on both a national and international level. By discussing shared values and interests—particularly around themes like history, revolution, and culture—they could forge stronger partnerships for producing and distributing films that highlight Iran’s rich cinematic heritage and the broader Islamic world.

It’s also great that the meetings went beyond just networking, focusing on practical steps that could result in more tangible outcomes, such as co-productions, knowledge-sharing, and distribution deals.

Moreover, the presentation of awards by both award-winning film directors and the directors of Indian film festivals highlights the growing appreciation and visibility of Iranian films in the Indian film industry. It also reinforces the strength of the cultural ties between the two countries, showcasing the acknowledgment and respect that Iranian cinema has earned on an international stage.

These awards not only honour the work of Iranian filmmakers but also serve to spotlight the unique narratives and artistic approaches that Iranian cinema brings to the global conversation. The collaboration between the Iranian Culture House in Mumbai and Indian film festivals creates a stronger foundation for future exchanges and sets the stage for more Iranian films to be presented and celebrated in India, furthering the exchange of ideas between the two film industries.

Prof. Dr. Mohan Das

This delegation, consisting of AVM Shanmugam, general Secretary of the Chennai International Film Festival, India, Prof. Dr. Mohan Das, Chairman & Founder of the Lake City film Festival in Mumbai, Arhaan Jamal, a writer and young director of Indian cinema, along with Zakir Hossein Sheikh, a cinema expert at the Iranian Cultural House in Mumbai, and Mehdi Salehi, Head of the Radio, Television and Press Co-operation Department of the Islamic Culture and Relations Organization, began their program on Wednesday, 29 January 2025.

Meeting with the Deputy Minister and Head of the Cinema Organization, meeting with Soureh Cinema foundation officials, visiting Ghazali Cinema Town visit Salman Farsi shoot and meet producer Mr Taheri, other important project, manager meeting with Filmnet executives and the producer of Dolphin Boy animation film, attending the 43rd Fajr Film Festival, interviews with various television and other news networks, were among the programs of this delegation's trip.

In addition to cinematic activities, visits to historical sites, including the Cinema Museum and a trip to the historical city of Isfahan, were also on the agenda of this delegation.

The "Speak About Iran" initiative seems like a powerful and proactive effort to combat the negative stereotypes and misconceptions that often surround Iran in the international media. By inviting influential media and cultural figures from various countries to visit Iran, the program offers them the opportunity to experience the country first-hand, allowing them to see beyond the headlines and gain a deeper understanding of Iran's rich history, culture, and people.

The cultural exchange aspect of this initiative also strengthens relationships between Iran and other countries, helping to build mutual respect and trust. It also creates a platform for discussing shared values, such as art, cinema, and history, which can open doors to greater cooperation and understanding.

Promoting cultural exchange is a powerful way to build long-term relationships. It’s also a brilliant strategy—encouraging visitors to share authentic narratives based on their first-hand experiences can be a game changer in addressing Iranophobia and promoting a more accurate, nuanced view of the country. By giving these media and cultural figures the opportunity to see Iran up close, they become personal witnesses to its culture, heritage, and achievements, which can challenge the often-one-sided portrayals seen in the media. Creating these international networks has the potential to break down barriers and generate more constructive, multifaceted discussions about Iran’s role in the global community.