Rocky Handsome is John Abraham's tribute to his idol Sylvester Stallone

Rocky Handsome is John Abraham's tribute to his idol Sylvester Stallone


John Abraham ,Bollywood's posterboy for health and fitness ,has never made qualms in admitting that he has painstakingly worked on his physique ,which today is considered his biggest USP and probably the best the industry has seen this far.

Hence it comes as no surprise that the actor's idol is none other than Sylvester Stallone . In fact ,John has watched the entire Rocky 1V over 100 times and film was truly a catalyst in getting him to be an actor.

Says John, "Sylvester Stallone is the reason I got into films. I still remember being awestruck when I watched Rocky IV on the big screen for the first time. I wanted to be like him, the underdog with a tough exterior and a soft heart".

John Abraham now pays tribute to his idol with his upcoming film Rocky Handsome , which will have loads of action like never seen before and for which he built a body that would do justice to his role in the film.

Adds John, "For me, just him watching Rocky Handsome would be validation enough that I exist in this industry because of him".

Not too long ago Sylvester Stallone stated that John was more jacked (in better) shape than Stallone ever was.

Meena Kumari's retro

Actress-poetess Meena Kumari aka Mahjabeen Bano, starred in over 90 classic, cult films in the 30 years from her childhood to her death. Now, the Tragedy Queen of Indian cinema is back on the silver screen. Osianama as part of its ongoing Womanhood festival  brings to the Indian audiences, rare original publicity material and priceless memorabilia from Meena Kumari’s films and a retro of her best films, Pakeezah, Parineeta and Daayra,  straight out of Osian's Archive & Library Collection on February 25 at Osianama At Liberty.

Besides the film, Osianama at Liberty will display the Pakeezah and Daera paintings, Kohinoor and Benazir Portraits, besides the Poster of Meena Kumari ki Amar Kahani,  Behana, Phool Aur Pathar and the images of Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam among others, an opportunity that is unmisseble.

"The memories of Meena Kumari reflect a deeply complex and contradictory soul which reaches out to the world to be understood and loved anew; a true creative spirit and individual, and yet rooted in tradition, wanting to just be a simple child once upon a time like all, but forced into becoming Baby Meena, her childhood stolen and thereafter it always seemed that she pursued love and freedom to be herself with an innocence and depth which can only be called tragic and brave. She is a true icon for Womanhood & Cinema, absorbing all, breaking all, in the search to be herself. Her life truly represents the ironic truth of - from dust to dust - but what a full life in those short 41 years. Along with Nargis and Madhubala she represents the feminine iconicity just as Mother India, Mughal-E-Azam and Pakeezah represents a different trinity of Indian cinema,” avers Neville Tuli, Chairman, Osian’s Group and  the driving force behind Osianama.

Meena Kumari’s portrayal of Chhoti Bahu, in Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam (1962) is one of her most memorable films, that bought her critical and commercial success, alike,  besides winning her the coveted Filmfare Award, that had eluded her with nominations earlier with Aarti and Main Chup Rahungi. Meena Kumari’s other memorable films include Baiju Bawra (1952), Parineeta (1953), Azaad (1955), Ek Hi Raasta (1956), Miss Mary (1957), Sharada (1957), Kohinoor (1960), Dil Apna Aur Preet Parayi (1960). And of course, her last memorable film  Pakeezah.

Mandana Karimi has been approch for Nach Baliye

Nach Baliye is one dance reality show which is more of drama than Nach. But yes we aren’t complaining as the drama indeed provides us the entertainment.  Well now becomes more infesting as the latest entrant to the bandwagon is Bigg Boss fame Mandana Karimi along with her boyfriend Gaurav Gupta.

According to a source close to the actress, “The association between Mandana Karimi and Ekta Kapoor (who is producing Nach Baliye) goes long way. The actress was not only seen in Ekta’s latest film Kya Kool Hai Hum 3 but has also been spotted at various parties of Ekta Kapoor. The makers of Nach Baliye approached Mandana and although she has not signed the dotted line the actress is taking keen interest to star in the show.

Varun Dhawan and Alia Bhatt support BETI

Anushka Ranjan, who made a striking debut with Wedding Pullav released last year, has been working tirelessly for rape victims ever since ‘BETI movement – A Charity For Women’ started by her mother-social activist, Anu Ranjan, came into existence.

Anushka is extremely sensitive when it comes to social issues related to women and likes giving back to the society and is associated with philanthropic activities at a young age.

Together, Anushka and her mother Anu, have been making an attempt to make the best use of social media to reach out to the needy and to create awareness about issues related to women. With each passing day, they are expanding their BETI family. They also get enquiries on social networking sites which are addressed by the team spontaneously.

Anushka says, “We raise money to get their medical bills covered, take care of their emotional therapy, and also get them a job.” The gorgeous actress is glad about the fact that her industry friends including Varun Dhawan and Alia Bhatt among others have come forward to support the noble cause.

“It’s sad but you need glamour and stars to promote your cause. When Alia Bhatt and Varun Dhawan tweeted with #bewithbeti, it made a difference. I'm grateful to Varun and Ali for lending their support to BETI,” Anushka adds.  

Hard Kaur honoured

Bollywood’s most prominent first female rapper-music composer Hard Kaur was honoured Maharashtra Ratna Awards for her contribution in the music industry and making the country proud at the international level.

Hard Kaur commented, “I have been living in Mumbai for almost 8 years now and the love that I have received from my fans and well-wishers has been amazing. I feel very blessed to have received such an honour like the Maharashtra Ratna Award and to be able to perform for the people of Maharashtra and an average human being who may not be able to afford to buy tickets to watch people like myself perform, so I am very pleased to be able to give this performance as a gratitude of my love and respect for the people of Maharashtra.”

Hard Kaur is one of India’s leading musicians and celebrity with fans across the nation. The face of Hip Hop in India, Hard Kaur has introduced the musical genre and taken it to greater heights by giving it a pop sensibility. The genre has quickly been absorbed by India and given its own unique twist is being used in the biggest Bollywood blockbusters. Her success story in India began as she co-wrote a hit single for the Indian gangster underworld flick ‘Johnny Gadar’ alongside the Indian equivalent of triple Grammy award winners Shankar, Ehsaan & Loy. The record was the most downloaded musical single that year and it propelled her into the limelight. With continued hits including India’s top selling singles from her debut album ‘Supawoman’, ‘Glassy’, Look 4 Me’ and’ Bombay Deewana’, she went on to become one of the most sought after performers for music in Bollywood blockbusters. Today her discography over the last 2 years includes over 20 smash hit records as part of movies including ‘Singh Is King’ to ‘Bachna Ae Haseeno’, Laung da laskara- Patiala House, ‘Chaar baj gaye’- Faltu, Sada dil vi tu- ABCD, she turned music composer with her  track ‘Aashiq Mizaaj’  ‘The Shaukeens’.

Its multilanguage for Fan

Shah Rukh Khan’s young, adorable and exuberant lookalike self  in Yash Raj Films’ ‘Fan’ had stunned and impressed everyone! Now, the Fan Anthem i.e. ‘Jabra Fan’ from the film ‘Fan’ is set to become a clutter breaking, popular chartbuster across the country in not one, not two, but six different languages! Nakash Aziz has sung ‘Jabra Fan’, in Hindi with catchy lyrics by Varun Grover and composed by Vishal Shekhar. A super hit already across radio stations and various platforms, the song will now has six other manifestations

In an innovative form of outreach, YRF has designed ‘Jabra Fan’ in six different regional languages.  The idea was to deliver a National chartbuster, in a true sense and on a varied, large scale. The song has been recorded in Tamil, Bengali, Gujarati, Punjabi, Marathi and Bhojpuri too. For each song, the region’s most popular singer has been incorporated, with appealing lyrics.  In Bengali, Anupam Roy has sung the Fan Anthem to lyrics by Priyo Chattopadhyay. In Gujarati, Arvind Vegda has sung to lyrics by Roshan Thankar. The peppy Punjabi ‘Fan’ anthem has been sung by the super popular Harbhajan Mann with lyrics by Shellee. In Tamil, Nakash Aziz has sung the song to lyrics by B Vijay. And in Bhojpuri, Bihar’s favorite Manoj Tiwari has sung the song to lyrics by Dr Ranju Sinha.  In Marathi, the home state of the Hindi film industry, Avdhoot Gupte sings the song to Guru Thakkar’s lyrics. With ‘Jabra Fan’ thumping from speakers and radio stations across so many Indian states, the film’s popular appeal is bound to multiply. But the creative and innovative thought behind the six regional anthems also captures the pan Indian craze that cinema icons drive in our country. Once again, here’s a novel idea that we doff our hat to!

Spritual Rajniesh Duggall...

Kashi has a special significance for actor Rajniesh Duggall. It is here that Rajniesh discovered his spiritual side. "it was simply another shoot. I started preparing for the character of Bicky Shukla for Direct Ishq and Kashi brought with it a special spiritual calling. I found a strange peace in the land of the Mahadev," admits Rajniesh, who has also done a scene straight out of Mahabharata, a la Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron in the film. "Even my dubbing was done with me chewing paan for authentic feel of the character."

However Rajniesh is sure that even post this film, Kashi will be a destination he would head for, at least once a year. "I can not contain what I experienced there in words. You must be there to feel the aura," he avers.

Priyanka Chopra to play the villain in Baywatch

Dwayne Johnson aka “The Rock” welcomed our very own Priyanka Chopra to the Baywatch family ,calling her “insanely talented” , “relentlessly smoking” and “extremely dangerous”.

Referring to her as one of the biggest stars in the world, the Hollywood star welcomed Priyanka to the badass dysfunctional Baywatch family , where she essays the role of the villain.

Priyanka is all set to star in Baywatch, which is a film adaptation of the popular TV series, alongside Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson and Zac Efron.Sources reveal that while Priyanka has been in talks with the makers since September last year, Dwayne was instrumental in this development.The actor has been closely following Priyanka's TV show and felt that Priyanka would make the perfect villain in the film.

While the role was written initially for a leading male to essay the villian’s character, the star thought Priyanka would take the character to all new-level given the rave reviews coming her way, her immense popularity in the west and her insane fan following across the globe.

Adds the source, “While details of her role in the film are being kept under wraps, her look tests will begin next week. Priyanka will be shooting for Quantico and the movie simultaneously and is very excited about her first Hollywood film,where she has a strong author backed role”.

BETI Movement ramp

Anushka Ranjan, who made a striking debut with Wedding Pullav released last year, has been working tirelessly for rape victims ever since ‘BETI movement – A Charity For Women’ started by her mother-social activist, Anu Ranjan, came into existence.

The gorgeous actress along with her mother Anu Ranjan celebrated BETI’s 10^th anniversary with a rocking fashion show aimed to raise funds for the victims of sexual abuse. The fashion show held at Mumbai’s plus hotel witnessed almost 100 people from the television and film industry walking the ramp in support of the cause. Ms Amruta Fadnavis, wife of CM Shri Devendra Fadnavis was the Special Guest on the occasion.

Among the best dressed celebrities at the event, the gorgeous Anushka Ranjan was a head-turner as she graciously walked the ramp in a Manish Malhotra lehenga and jewelry by Anmol.

BETI movement was started in 2006 by Anu Ranjan and her daughter-actor Anushka Ranjan (BETI’s brand ambassador) to redress the wrongs perpetrated on women to the utmost of their capacities.

Among the ones who attended the event includes Yuvika Choudhary, Anita Hassanandani, Rohit Roy with daughter Kiara, Satish Kaushik, Ragini Khanna, Shakti Kapoor, Ajaz Khan and others. 

Sonali Bendre Behl to be the face of the revival of Paithanis of Maharashtra state

Being a Maharashtrian and aamchi Marathi mulgi, Sonali feels proud and honoured to endorse the ancient traditional weave and she feels strongly for the dying art of handloom in Maharashtra and would like to spread awareness about weaver's work.

For those not aware, Paithani uses the ancient technique of tapestry where multiple threads of different colours along with gold and silver threads are weaved together to form a fascinating piece of silk. It's made from natural silk or cotton with precious gold and silver metal threads that gives Paithani the Midas touch.

Sonali says , "I do like wearing Paithani Sarees as I find them graceful. I have a collection from my mother n my mother in law. I would say my favorites are live chiffons as they are light can be dressed up or down with blouse, jewellery etc for day as well as night functions, can literally live in them. The reasons for me to be associated with it is that paithani reminds me of my mother, her mother, aunts.... In maharashtrian households ur wedding trousseau is not complete without a paithani.....Also it's weave motifs n Colors r so rich that it has been my fascination from d time I was a lil girl"

Preity Zinta and fiancé Gene Goodenough to donate the proceeds generated from their wedding pictures to charity

Actress and businesswoman, Preity Zinta ,who has always championed various causes and is known for taking a stand on issues that are close to her , will now put her money where her heart is.

Sources close to the actress reveal that while there is massive anticipation surrounding her wedding to fiance Gene Goodenough,  Preity , has decided to channel that into a charitable cause.

Says a source, " The power couple have decided to direct all the hype and anticipation surrounding their wedding into a charitable cause. They will be putting their private wedding images up for auction and the proceeds generated out of these will go towards the Preity Zinta Foundation. Preity's foundation works towards educating children and old age home rehabilitation. Preity has been involved in several charitable initiatives but has never spoken about it since she is an extremely private person. However, both she and Gene wanted to celebrate this joyous moment in their lives by giving back to society in their own little way".

Pass time on Kapoor and Sons

The cast and crew of kapoor and sons bonded over music on the sets..

Whenever there was free time or there was time till the shot for being ready the director is the film Shakun batra along with fawad khan and the director of photography Jeffrey bierman use to jam together.. They all use to play the guitar..

There came a time on the set when there were demands of the songs..

Everyone on the sets of kapoor n sons have had an time working on it as there was a lot of fun and at the Same time there was a lot of hard work as well.

Shakun says that He envy's fawad As he is such a great actor looks good and plays the guitar also really well.  

Trailer launch of Ki & Ka

Known to constantly surprise and showcase interesting stories,  filmmaker R.Balki is all set to introduce audiences to his next interestingly titled " Ki & Ka"(taken from ladKI and ladKA)* starring Arjun Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor Khan .

Eros International & Hope Productions today launched the trailer of R.Balki's Ki & Ka at a popular multiplex in the suburbs.Ki And Ka is a fun love story between two people with contrasting ideologies .While Arjun is a progressive house husband who lovingly supports his wife's ambitions, Kareena, on the other hand, is a super ambitious career woman.

While the subject of the film and the interesting casting has already caught everyone’s attention, the chemistry between the two and the relevance of the story ,in the fun trailer, makes it one of the most exciting films to watch out for this year.

 On the occasion said Kareena Kapoor Khan, "The concept of "Ki and Ka" is very new. It is a brave script and I'm really proud of Arjun for giving his nod to the film ,as very few men would have had the confidence to essay a role like this".

Said Arjun Kapoor, "My character has grown up wanting to be like his mother who was a homemaker. He is not a slacker, he is an educated guy who knows what he wants out of life.This film is drastically different and I wanted to be part of it as it is a conversation starter.I hope that after watching Ki & Ka that thought is encouraged".

On a high note said director R.Balki, " Hindi is a language where just not human beings even objects have genders. This film is all about the fact that Ki & Ka genders don't matter. Going out and making a career, doesn't make a woman a man and staying at home and making a home, doesn't make a man a woman".

 With an interesting mix of music by the legendary Ilayaraja and Meet Brothers, Ki & Ka, also stars superstars Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan in guest appearances.

 Eros International & Hope Productions' Ki & Ka,directed by R.Balki stars Arjun Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Swaroop Sampat among others and is scheduled to release April 1st,2016

Urvashi Rautela - A rising star

Urvashi Rautela,  Who was busy promoting Sanam Re for past few days along with Yami Gautam and Pulkit Samrat seems to have grabbed with her crispy but impactful role in the film. 

The pair Yami and Gautam were in news for past few days and were also termed as the leading couple.  However,  Urvashi has stole the show with her hot and sexy avatar in the film. 

Urvashi is the eye-candy of the film and has also given a power-packed performance in Divya Khosla's film.  

Her fans are going gaga over her character in the film and she is constantly been praised on social networking site. 

According to many critics,  Urvashi has managed to leave an impact on the viewers.  

Even after being one popular face in the beauty world,  Urvashi's acting and intense scenes in the film has thrilled the audience. The actress is now very selective about the roles she is accepting and wants to experiment with different roles. 

Urvashi's popularity has also made her Hindu college's Damdami Mai and her increasing popularity amongst the youngsters have made her the latest heartthrob in the youngsters. 

Urvashi's presence on social networking site has also made her one of the most talked about celeb.

Hema Malini releses music album with Sholye co-stars

Saregama India Ltd, India’s flagship music and entertainment  Company has launched a prestigious album Dream Girl, composed and sung by Babul Supriyo  (Minister of State for Urban Development, Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation) with Bollywood’s Dream Girl, Hema Malini (Member of Parliament).   A line of this track says, ‘Big B se leke Paaji’ which set the stage for her co-stars Amitabh Bachchan & Dharmendra to launch the music album. Celebrities from film and music fraternity were present to set the musical mood, as the dream girl pepped the atmosphere with her nightingale tunes. While on a political trail with Babul Supriyo last year, she spoke about her interest in singing. The conversation made the singer coax her to record a Hindi duet, 'Aji suniye to zara, kya hai manjara' which resulted into this great project of delivering Hema ji’s sensational voice to her fans by way of this album 'Dream Girl'.

Shabbir Ahmed has penned the lyrics of the song and the video features Babul Supriyo, Hema Malini and television actors  Vipul Roy, Mishal Raheja and Aishwarya Sakhuja.

More than four decades ago, way back in 1973, Hema Malini, then the nation’s dream girl was inspired by the legendary Kishore Kumar to sing and since then she had it on her agenda to launch a music album. ‘Dream Girl’ embarks her journey in the Hindi music industry and her hidden talent will now come forth with many more songs in her sensational voice.

On this occasion, Babul Supriyo, who has not only conceptualised the song but has also composed the melody,  expressed his delight and happiness in  working with the legendary .  actor.  “While we were dubbing the other 2 songs it was Hema ji’s enthusiasm that made this duet happen!   She is an absolute sport and surprised all of us with her zeal to try new things.  It was a challenge to get the right direction, both lyrically and conceptually, because I didn’t want it to be a regular duet song.  I am very happy with the outcome and extremely grateful to Hema ji for pouring her heart into it.  My sincere appreciation to the entire team of Saregama for making this happen so very beautifully.  I am sure the album aptly titled Dream Girl and releasing on the eve of Valentines Day will make many a heart  beat faster, for love and with love”

At the launch, Hema Malini said, “Art and entertainment is what keeps me going; it is a part of me now. I had not explored my singing talent before and I am therefore very excited to showcase this side of me to the audience. Hope they continue to shower their love on me as they have done over the past years.”

Fan's first sone Jabra...released

Shah Rukh Khan has given life to the ever-enthusiastic spirit of fans everywhere through the FAN ANTHEM! And when a superstar encapsulates the emotions of his life’s true stars – his FANS, it’s a notch above special! FAN ANTHEM is the one and only song in FAN, where the Duniya ke sabse bade Superstar ka sabse bada Fan dances with true joy and passion. Get ready to be awestruck by Gaurav’s look and energy infused moves!

Valentine Day's collection by Asif Merchant

Designer Asif Merchant unveils Valentine’s day Collection with Model and Actor Gwen Athaide 

There are very few days left for Valentine’s Day but the celebrations for this special day are already begun. Everyone is planning special for their love but our celebrities are planning special gift for their Fans. On This Valentine’s Miss India and Actor Cum Singer Gwen Athaide had done romantic photoshoot for their Fans. Bollywood well known designer Asif Merchant have design for Gwen lovely red and blue taffeta fist tail skirt and nude tulle bodysuit with red emb to enhance the look and complementing her look is the black suit for the men's giving him the dapper look perfect for the couple to attend the valentine party. In Red Taffesta Gwen was looking Gorgeous. She poses with model Nayan Chowdhary and SIddarth Raj. She also posed with red balloon and red roses, She was seen in full romantic mood. The shoot had done at Soho Lounge Andheri. 

Gwen Said, “A Great experience to be all dressed in a Valentines special edition of reds and white. May the season of love capture our hearts to those near and dear”.

Another resort wear collection is ivory taffeta satin and tulle long sleek gown with guy wearing Lycra crepe ivory jacket great to be worn for beach party and resort.  Another look for Gwen have design black red carpet gown with detailing giving her a diva fashionista look. Her Make and Hair styled by Sachin Kadam.

Designer Asif Merchant Said, “I know Gwen since her start of her career when she won the title of Miss Mumbai contest and saw her success from model actor to a fabulous singer   It's always been great pleasure to have her in my shows and shoots and see my creation on her. She giving full justice to my collection while showcasing it.This season I unveiled my spring summer 2016 keeping in mind the mood of valentine and summer. Gazar, tulle , voile,satin , taffeta immaterial as light as air simple ornately worked. In summer colours versions in red and timeless black and white. Fabric enfold the female figure and men's personality transforming in to dreamlike dimension. Gwen in nude tulle fully embroidered bodice, red and  midnight  blue fish tail long skirt that sheath the figure  complimenting her is men in black suit with touch of red to give that dapper look”.

Born from the taper of a dream yet the memory is so vivid as to become real. A hot summer a light breeze blows while the incandescent sun alters colours. Transparent turquoise sparkling water. The first kiss Inspired by this water sun n beach feel is the resort wear in ivory has the seductive femininity of gowns that cares the curves, clinched waistline , deliberate transparencies in satin taffeta n tulle. The gowns subtly emphasize the silhouettes and more slender look. Neckline are important, stressed by asymmetrical plunges. Men's are in ivory jacket with blue T- shirts   and detailing to give that cool breeze look for summer
Undeniably important evening gowns, they flaunt a style and structure evocative of the most classic dictates of haute couture

Osian Film Festivals

100 directors’ womancentric films on view at Osian Group’s Womanhood film fest

As the Osian's Group continues its rebuilding process with the welcome return of financial stability after five years, Osianama Calendar starts with "Womanhood - The battle to be thyself" - An International Film & Arts Festival which will open out a magnificent vast world of cinematic and artistic brilliance rarely seen with such cohesion and completeness.

In other words, Osianama now opens the unique concept of 365 days a year Film Festival at the iconic art-deco cinema Liberty, which is the new headquarters of Osianama. 

The first two months sees films by over 100 leading film directors including leading filmmakers such as Agnes Varda, Chantal Akerman, Ingmar Bergman, Jane Campion, Vera Chytilova, Deepa Mehta, Aparna Sen, Larisa Sheptiko, Mira Nair, the Makmalbhaf Family, Raj Kapoor, Sam Mendes, Lynne Ramsay, and many leading younger lights of world cinema, such as Haifaa al-Mansour & Shirin Neshat.

The opening day sees The Stoning of Sorayah by Cyrus Nowrasteh (US) at 1-30pm, Girlhood by Ceine Sciamma (France)  at 4pm, Sengaal by Leena Manimekalai (India) at 6.30pm and Persona by Ingmar Begman (Sweden) at 8.30pm. Osian’s Cinematic Heritage Exhibition on the History of Women in Indian Cinema opens at 6pm.

“Sharing ideas about Womanhood is complex, just a step short of holding a festival on Humanity. Delicate and deep are the threads which bind the life of a woman, especially in developing regions, such as India, Asia, the Arab World and Africa, where injustice is omnipresent in a myriad ways. We hope that after sharing and participating with us over the next two months there will be a transformation in our understanding and empathy with the subject,” says Neville Tuli, Chairman, Osian’s Group and the driving force behind Osianama.

The Festival is curated along the various eight stages that a Woman’s life mostly and probably progresses: Girlhood – Coming of Age – Mirror Mirror… - Male Gaze& Beauty – Life Interrupted – Marriage & Motherhood – Pursuit of a Deeper Individuality – Seeking Spirituality.

Various challenges and struggles which a girl and woman faces are highlighted throughout the Festival, such as female infanticide, child genital mutilation, child marriage, dowry demands, stoning, rape, prostitution, domestic violence, injustice pertaining to issues such as abortion and inheritance, various sexual choices and gender dilemmas, and widowhood. These struggles along with all the joys, strengths and deeply fulfilling insights are highlighted throughout the Festival.

February 13, 6pm marks the opening of a very rare Exhibition that brings to you a treasure trove of cinematic art that focuses on the History of Women in Hindi Cinema, from the Osian’s Archive and Library Collection, the world’s foremost collection of Indian and Hollywood Memorabilia.

Feb 13-25 marks Part 1 of the fest that focuses on ‘Girlhood’ and ‘Coming of Age’, including Alice and Lolita as cinematic inspirations, the Ingmar Bergman Retrospective and the Cinema of Meena Kumari.  This section also showcases films by Siddiq Barmak, Amar Escalante, Priya Goswami, Davis Guggenheim, July Jung, Stanley Kubrick, Nagesh Kukunoor, Adrian Lyne, Hayao Miyazaki, Lukas Moodysson, Kimberly Price, Celene Sciamma, Ousmane Sembene, Jan Svankmajer, Vipin Vijay among others.

Revival of OSIAN’S-CINEFAN, the 13th Edition starts in three parts until August 2016 before the 14th Edition re-opens in New Delhi. This section also includes the ‘Mirror Mirror…’ and ‘Male Gaze and Beauty’ sections. The revival of the celebrated Film Festival: Osian's-Cinefan, especially with the Introduction of African Cinema to the trinity of Indian, Arab and Asian Cinema is a highlight of the Womanhood Festival.

African Cinema is indeed a new powerful and vibrant cinematic voice which is crying out for a wider embrace. Among other foci, will be the Iranian film women’s movement & leading women film-makers; Japanese classics on ‘Womanhood’; and a focus on the cinema of Trinh T. Minh-ha, making this calendar a must watch.

The 1st Osianama Lifetime Achievement award for Contribution to Nurturing Cinema Culture will be awarded to international film authority Aruna Vasudev, who founded both the pioneering journal Cinemaya and the Cinefan Film Festival.

Feb 27-Apr 10 also brings with it a magnificent Fine Arts Exhibition titled ‘Womanhood through the eyes of Indian Modern & Contemporary Art’ from some of the best collections of the country. This exhibition will include the art of modern masters such as Nandalal Bose, Shobha Broota, Sass & Elizabeth Brunner, A.R. Chughtai, Prokash Karmakar, Devyani Krishna, Hemendranath Majumdar, Mrinalini Mukherjee, Akbar Padamsee, Jamini Roy, Amrita Sher-Gil, F.N. Souza, along with contemporary artists such as Namrita Bachchan, Vasundhara T. Broota, Saba Hassan, Pooja Iranna, Bharti Kher, Rekha Rodwittiya, Vasudha Thozdur, among others.

Part 3 from Mar 8–27 focuses on ‘Life Interrupted’ and ‘Marriage and Motherhood’. Flaubert’s Madame Bovary as cinematic inspiration, the cinema of Chantal Akerman, a focus on the cinema of Aparna Sen and Deepa Mehta as well as Women & Animation with a focus on the cinematic art of Signe Baumane besides works of Deepa Mehta and Aparna Sen will be the highlights.

The “Life Interrupted” idea reflects that stage where the idea and/or beckoning of pregnancy and motherhood needs to be considered deeply, and in the process, derails or challenges the normal trajectory of life significantly.

Part 4 – From March 28th to April 6th is on ‘Pursuit of a Deeper Individuality’ & ‘Seeking Spirituality’. The Shabana Azmi Retrospective is a focus of this section, honoring one of India’s finest actresses whose body of cinematic work has no parallel.

There is also a special focus on Female innovation in the world of western rock and pop, Indian classical dance and naturally Indian mainstream cinema, which many badly term as “Bollywood”. 

Films will focus on the creativity of Patti Smith to Madonna, Kate Bush to Amy Winehouse; the  ideology of master contemporary dancers such as Chandralekha to the choreography of leading “Bollywood” exponent Farah Khan, who will present a Master Class on Choreography in mainstream Hindi Cinema.

 Osianama at Liberty is the place to be between 13^th February and 16^th April 2016 so as to share the creativity of an amazing array of acclaimed film directors from over 35 countries.

As Osianama moves towards becoming the capital of World Cinema, it is a unique chance for the public to engage and participate with the finest creative minds and rare original artistic objects of cinematic history on a daily basis, from students to stars, professionals to connoisseurs, and grasp the nature of a vibrant cinematic culture, which is far different from just having a love for cinema.

Sanam Re is been appreiciated at Box Office

                                           Sanam Re is been appreiciated at Box Office

Producer Bhushan Kumar who says romantic movies have greater recall value than thrillers or action films, released his wife - director Divya Khosla Kumar's love story Sanam Re today 12^th Feb 2016. Starring Pulkit Samrat, Yami Gautam and Urvashi Rautela the film released this Valentine's weekend which added to the intensity of the genre of the film. Made in a budget of 20.50cr only (COP + P&A), the film is already walking the path to recovery. 

Today being the release day, the film has already received a successful opening at the box office. As the morning shows have opened well, evening shows have seen a good growth. The film has already recovered 16cr from Music, Satellite and Overseas Distribution. 

Pandit Jasraj honored in Houston

Sangeet Martand Pandit Jasraj honored in Houston for his Lifelong contribution in Indian Classical Arts

Sangeet Martand Pandit Jasraj’s devotion towards music is a true example for keeping the roots of music alive. A deep believer of humility and love, Pandit Jasraj has flagged the way for Indian vocal classical music to echo across the world.

At a recent event in Houston, India House, a leading organization, representing Houston community, in the USA, recognized and honored Sangeet Martand Pandit Jasraj for his lifelong distinguished and exceptional contribution in the classical Indian arts, including popularizing Indian classical music, inspiring other artists and youth worldwide. The President of the India House honored Pandit Jasraj, in the presence of an exclusive gathering of prominent citizens, including prominent US Congressman Al Green. India House has in the past (2011) felicitated former President of India Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam.

Durga Jasraj, on hearing the news said, "Bapuji perseverance has yet again been recognised and awarded. As his daughter  I feel immense happiness and as a citizen of India I feel pride. Bharat Ratna - Pandit Ravi Shankar ji always said about Bapuji that what he did for Indian Classical Instrumental Music across the world is what Pandit Jasraj is doing for India Classical Vocal worldwide! It's a moment of pride for each one of us."

In 1995, Pandit Jasraj's students opened 1st school in Vancouver,B.C, Canada the Pandit Jasraj School of Music Foundation. After which many disciples of Pandit Jasraj spread out to run many schools in New York, New Jersey, Tampa- Florida, Pittsburg, Atlanta, and others... Pandit Jasraj spends few months every year teaching, performing and spreading the true essence of Indian Classical Vocal Music in the US. This has helped PJSMF become a brand that is synonymous with Indian Music in the US. Many of the schools have grown big and are now  recognised as Institutes by the Government of U.S.A as well they also receive it patronage from them. In New York there is an auditorium named after him- Pandit Jasraj Auditorium.

Pandit Jasraj is the 1st Asian in whose name scholarship is given in any North American University  to deserving young musician pursuing Indian Music. Toronto University gives Pandit Jasraj scholarship annually. Pandit Jasraj’s musical journey is an inspiration to every person who resonates with music more so because vocal music is the most direct medium of connecting with the soul. He has been passionately loyal to his soil, while his music has scaled ethereal heights all over the planet.

Post Dhoom 3 game its time for Fan game

Yash Raj Films, India’s leading film production house and 99Games, the country’s leading developer and publisher of games, announced their continued association with a multi-year deal to exclusively publish “FAN: The Game” - the official game for YRF’s Shah Rukh Khan starrer Fan!  

"FAN: The Game" revolves around the journey of an ardent fan and the challenges he encounters to meet the superstar he idolizes. It’s a game about connections. Fans can connect with superstar Shah Rukh Khan at his residence Mannat, in a film studio, in a cinema hall or simply at a mall and prove that they are his Sabse Bada Fans!  

"After the phenomenal success of Dhoom: 3 The Game, with incredible player reviews and feedback from over 20 million downloads, we are excited to work yet again with Yash Raj Films to build a stellar mobile game for YRF’s Shah Rukh Khan starrer, FAN. The game will have avenues for players to connect with the superstar and a chance to come face-to-face with their idol in real life,” said Rohith Bhat, CEO of 99Games. "As more and more consumers will be on the lookout for great local content, we will continue to push our boundaries to create high quality entertaining games. Working closely with YRF will be part of that strategy,” he added. 

Land of Gold-Anushka Shankar's new album

Anoushka Shankar sounds a searing cry against injustice in new album, Land of   Gold

Leading label Universal Music is set to unveil one of the most coveted offerings of the year -  Land of Gold by sitar virtuoso Anoushka Shankar.  Her fourth album with the label, is her heartfelt response to the trauma and injustice being experienced by refugees and victims of war. Offering an uplifting message of hope for dark times, its music was inspired by recent news images of people fleeing civil war, oppression, poverty and unbearable hardship. The album contemplates the common thread of humanity and its power to reconnect people divided by hatred and fear. “The seeds of Land of Gold originated in the context of the humanitarian plight of refugees,” Anoushka recalls. “It coincided with the time when I had recently given birth to my second child. I was deeply troubled by the intense contrast between my ability to provide for my baby, and others who desperately wanted to provide the same security for their children but were unable to do so.”

Land of Gold is set for international release on 1 April 2016. Anoushka Shankar will perform pieces from the album on tour throughout the year, including festival dates in the summer in Europe and concerts in North America, the United Kingdom, continental Europe, India and the United Arab Emirates.

Mankind’s eternal quest for a place of safety fuelled Anoushka’s creativity and supplied her album’s narrative structure. “Everyone is, in some way or another, searching for their own ‘Land of Gold’: a journey to a place of security, connectedness and tranquility, which they can call home,” reflects the five-times Grammy nominee. “This journey also represents the interior quest that we all take to find a sense of inner peace, truth and acceptance – a universal desire that unites humanity.” Land of Gold explores themes of disconnection and vulnerability. It also trains the light of hope on the soul’s darkest shadows.

Strong emotions flow throughout Land of Gold, expressed on sitar by Anoushka Shankar and reinforced in collaboration with an ensemble of gifted instrumentalists and guest artists. The music’s dynamic energy was further enhanced by the input of Joe Wright, Anoushka’s husband and director of movies such as Pride & Prejudice, Atonement and Anna Karenina, who worked with his wife on the album’s production, and by the cinematic soundscapes and textures of electronic producer Matt Robertson, Björk’s frequent collaborator. “My instrument,” comments Anoushka, “is the terrain in which I explore the gamut of emotional expression – evoking shades of aggression, anger and tenderness, while incorporating elements of classical minimalism, jazz, electronica and Indian classical styles.”

Anoushka Shankar is joined by Hang virtuoso and co-writer of many of the album’s ten pieces Manu Delago, and by Sanjeev Shankar, a master of the haunting Indian reed instrument, the shehnai, who studied with Anoushka’s father Ravi Shankar. Land of Gold also includes guest appearances by rapper and refugee advocate M.I.A., singer/songwriter Alev Lenz, jazz double-bassist Larry Grenadier, dancer Akram Khan, cellist Caroline Dale, and actress and political activist Vanessa Redgrave, who reads a viscerally expressive poem by Pavana Reddy on “Remain the Sea”. All-girl children’s choir Girls for Equality makes its debut on the album’s closing song, “Reunion”.

Pernia Qureshi to promote classical dance

Pernia Qureshi to promote classical dance

The style icon will now be seen promoting India’s classical dance forms - Kathak and Kuchipudi through her dance recitals that she will be conducting in India and abroad including Delhi, Mumbai and abroad.

Her dance recitals, ‘Chandi Raatein – Love and Dance under the Moonlight with Pernia Qureshi’ to be held in Delhi on 12^th February will be a live orchestra with musicians and singers and the whole recital will be about 50 minutes to an hour. Pernia has been a disciple of Kathak guru Raja Radha Reddy and Kaushalya Reddy and has also trained with Kumudini Lakhia, who choreographed her dance steps in Jaanisaar.