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The recent National Film Awards saw an unprecedented achievement: eight awards across six different films, all stemming from the vision and backing of a single studio. At the heart of this remarkable success story is Shariq Patel, a seasoned industry veteran whose strategic leadership and passion for impactful storytelling paved the way for this historic win. Shariq Patel's name is synonymous with a career spanning over three decades in the Indian media and entertainment industry, with experience across finance, radio, and film. His extensive expertise culminated in a nearly six-year tenure as the CEO of a major film studio, a period marked by significant growth and, as the recent National Awards indicate, unparalleled critical acclaim. Prior to his CEO role, Patel also served as the Chief Business Officer for the company and founded Trigno Media Pvt Ltd, showcasing his entrepreneurial drive and deep understanding of the media landscape. Patel recently took to social media to celebrate the studio's remarkable achievement, sharing an image showcasing the posters of the winning films. His post read: "This is how we hit it out of the park for a 6!!! 8 National Awards across 6 films in a single year must stand out as some sort of a record." He further credited the "team and to all our collaborators," highlighting that "We backed and produced 4 of these films at script level." This acknowledgment underscores Patel's hands-on approach and his commitment to nurturing projects from their initial stages. The collage of posters shared by Patel offers a glimpse into the diverse and critically acclaimed slate of films that triumphed at the National Awards, all under the studio's banner during his leadership: 12th Fail:  This inspiring narrative resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike, securing the prestigious awards for Best Actor (Vikrant Massey) and Best Feature Film. Aatmapamphlet:  A noteworthy debut that brought national recognition to its director, Ashish Avinash Bende, in the category for debut feature films. Mrs. Chatterjee Vs Norway:  Led by a powerful performance from Rani Mukerji, this film garnered national acclaim. Godday Godday Chaa:  This Punjabi film touched hearts and was honored nationally for its authentic portrayal of its culture. Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai:  Recognized for its compelling narrative and sharp dialogue, the film earned the Best Dialogue Writer award for Deepak Kingarani. Naal:  This heartwarming children's film captured the jury's attention and was awarded Best Children's Film. This impressive collection of awards is a direct reflection of Patel's vision. His leadership fostered an environment that championed diverse voices and compelling narratives across different genres and languages. The studio's success at the National Awards highlights a strategic focus on supporting high-quality content and nurturing talent, from established actors to emerging filmmakers. Shariq Patel's time at the studio, culminating in this historic National Awards sweep, serves as a testament to his impactful leadership and deep understanding of the art and business of filmmaking. As he steps into his future endeavors, this legacy of success and his commitment to quality storytelling will undoubtedly continue to shape the Indian entertainment landscape. The awards garnered by the films he championed are a powerful and lasting testament to his significant contributions during his tenure.

T-Series proudly celebrates a series of wins at the 71st National Film Awards, with its films’ music earning prestigious recognition for excellence in both creative and technical categories. Here are the honours received by the team: • Best Music Direction (Background Music): Animal (Hindi) – Harshavardhan Rameshwar • Special Mention (Re-Recording Mixer): Animal (Hindi) – M. R. Rajakrishnan • Best Sound Design: Animal (Hindi) – Sachin Sudhakaran & Hariharan Muralidharan • Best Playback Singer: Chaleya – Shilpa Rao • Best Debut Film of a Director: Aatmapamphlet (Marathi) – Director: Ashish Bende Elated producer Bhushan Kumar shares, “It’s a moment of immense pride for all of us at T-Series and Bhadrakali Pictures. Being honoured with multiple National Awards for our films’ music is a true validation of the stories we’ve backed and the talent we’ve collaborated with. From Animal to Aatmapamphlet, and Shilpa Rao’s win for Jawan, each recognition reflects the dedication and creative spirit of our teams.” He adds, “Congratulations to everyone involved! I’m truly grateful to the jury for this honour and to the audiences who continue to support our journey in cinema.” These recognitions underline T-Series’ ongoing commitment to meaningful storytelling, exceptional music, and quality filmmaking across languages.

Triptii Dimri created a spark on the big screens all over again with the recently released film, Dhadak 2! As Vidhi, she stepped into a more mature and emotionally-charged role, introducing a new shade of herself as an actress. Not only did she showcase a pulled-up range as an actress, but the emotionally demanding sequences highlighted her emotional growth, adding more gravitas to her character and the plot. The film is out in the theatres, and going by Triptii's acting mettle, the audiences are already hailing it as her career-best performance! As Vidhi, Triptii dived deep into the layers and emotions of the role, showcasing the strengths and vulnerabilities of the character and its conflicts. From internal turmoil to a voice that adds more strength to each frame, Triptii defines the role with heartbreaking authenticity and cinematic grace. Taking a detour from bubbly and lighthearted characters, Triptii Dimri embodies and tears and heartbreak of love that gets entangled in the web of caste. Despite the sensitive theme, Triptii brings a certain sense of maturity and sensibility to the demanding plot, proving why she fits the role perfectly. Every frame, every sequence - whether solo or with co-star Siddhant Chaturvedi, Triptii ensures to make the audience feel every bit of it. As Triptii registers another strong performance under her name, you wouldn’t want to give it a miss! Catch Dhadak 2 in your cinemas!

Mrunal Thakur engaged in a fun-filled Instagram live session with ‘Son of Sardaar 2’ co-stars Ajay Devgn and Kubbra Sait. During the same, the actress talked about juggling between the shoots of Son of Sardaar 2 and Dacoit. As both projects are linguistically different, Mrunal shared her experience of shooting both films and also opened up about her learning insights. Mrunal shared, “After finishing one schedule of Dacoit, I came straight to rehearsals and prep for Son of Sardaar 2. Mornings were for learning Telugu lines, evenings for Punjabi. It felt like I had one foot in the North and one in the South. The energy in Punjabi is amazing! I picked up some Punjabi words and learned more about the language.” Sharing her experience of learning Dhol, Mrunal adds, “As an actor, getting into that space is so important. Not everyone enjoys it, but I really did, and I miss those days. Playing the Dhol was tough too, so I have a lot of respect for everyone who plays it. It's a heavy, challenging instrument, and I’m especially grateful to the teachers who helped me.” In Son of Sardaar 2, Mrunal Thakur steps into the role of a lively Punjabi girl, full of heart. As Rabia, Mrunal brings life to the plot and impresses the audiences with her dialogue delivery, spot-on expressions, humour and lighthearted chemistry with Ajay Devgn. Directed by Vijay Kumar Arora, Son of Sardaar 2 promises a rollercoaster of entertainment, and it is currently running in the cinemas!

Tucked away on the iconic Bandstand promenade in Mumbai, with a breathtaking view of the Arabian Sea, lies a culinary gem that has quickly become a hotspot for celebrities and food lovers alike: The Bandstand Pantry. More than just a cafe, it's a tranquil retreat that offers a perfect blend of gourmet food, a relaxed ambiance, and a touch of A-list glamour. The Man Behind the Magic The Bandstand Pantry is the brainchild of Sinan Kader , a former Ranji Trophy cricketer turned successful restaurateur. Kader, who is also behind other ventures like Slow Burger Co., brought his passion for high-quality food and a unique dining experience to life with this cafe. The interiors, which exude a warm and cozy vibe, were reportedly designed by businesswoman and socialite Mana Shetty , adding another layer of celebrity association to the place. The menu itself is a work of art, curated by celebrity chef Shantanu Gupte , drawing inspiration from his global travels. A Star-Studded Guest List The cafe's stunning location and appealing menu have made it a favorite among Bollywood's elite. While the list of visitors is constantly growing, some of the well-known names who have been spotted grabbing a bite include: Aryan Khan : The son of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, whose famous residence, Mannat, is just a stone's throw away. Ahan Shetty : Son of Suniel Shetty, he is often seen enjoying the cafe's offerings. KL Rahul : The Indian cricketer is a frequent visitor, adding to the cafe's appeal among sports enthusiasts. Manushi Chillar : The former Miss World and actress has also been seen at this popular spot. Varun Dhawan : The actor once gave a shoutout to the cafe on Instagram, thanking Sinan Kader for a healthy and delicious smoothie bowl. What Makes It a High-Rated Hotspot? The Bandstand Pantry's rave reviews and high ratings are no accident. It’s a combination of several factors that make it a standout destination: The View:  This is arguably the cafe's biggest draw. Its sea-facing location provides an unmatched experience, allowing diners to enjoy their meal with the sound of waves and a cool sea breeze. Guilt-Free Gourmet:  The menu is designed to offer a "guilt-free gourmet experience." It focuses on healthy, fresh, and high-quality ingredients, from free-range eggs to artisanal bread and single-origin coffee. Popular dishes like the Avocado Toast with Truffle Oil and the Forest Mushroom dish have received special praise. Ambience and Design:  The cafe's laid-back yet chic atmosphere, designed with a blend of modern minimalism and warm nostalgia, makes it an inviting space for a relaxed brunch, a quick coffee break, or a leisurely evening with friends. Diverse Menu:  From hearty breakfast options like smoothie bowls and egg dishes to sandwiches, flatbreads, and healthy juices, the menu caters to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you're a local Mumbaikar or a tourist exploring Bandra, a visit to The Bandstand Pantry promises a delightful experience where you can enjoy great food, stunning views, and perhaps even a celebrity sighting. It’s a perfect example of how a well-thought-out concept, a prime location, and a focus on quality can create a truly memorable dining destination.

From edgy courtroom dramas to spy thrillers, the new-age leading ladies of Bollywood are going full throttle with fresh genres, bold scripts, and unexpected pairings. These actresses aren't just "working"—they're leading  a new chapter of Indian cinema. Let’s deep dive into the six power-packed film lineups that are keeping all eyes on them. 1. Fatima Sana Shaikh: Social Drama Meets Grit After shining in Aap Jaisa Koi  and Metro In Dino , Fatima is moving into hard-hitting territory. Her next features her as a cop in a gritty courtroom drama fighting for a minor rape victim. She’s also teaming up with Vijay Varma ( Gustaakh Ishq ) and has a mysterious project with Roy Kapur Films. Expect intensity. 2. Triptii Dimri: The Indie Queen Goes Pan-India Fresh off Dhadak 2 , Triptii returns with Spirit , reuniting with Sandeep Reddy Vanga and co-starring Prabhas. Plus, there’s an untitled Vishal Bhardwaj project brewing—signalling that she’s ready to oscillate between mainstream and artistic cinema with ease. 3. Rashmika Mandanna: The Genre Hopper From horror-comedy ( Thama  with Ayushmann) to potential love triangle buzz ( Cocktail 2  with Shahid & Kriti) and the mysterious Mysaa —Rashmika is bringing surprise and spunk to every frame. 4. Janhvi Kapoor: Massy Meets Classy With Param Sundari  alongside Sidharth Malhotra, and a full rom-com blast in Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari , Janhvi’s doubling down on heartland meets high-glam. She’s also stepping into Telugu thrillers with Peddi  and Allu Arjun’s next. Her career’s clearly in 5th gear. 5. Ananya Panday: Romance Reimagined Ananya's upcoming rom-com Tu Meri Main Tera  with Kartik Aaryan and the visually aesthetic Chand Mera Dil  with Lakshya are tailored to her Gen-Z brand. She's cementing her spot as the face of modern rom-coms. 6. Alia Bhatt: Leading a Spy Universe & A Sanjay Leela Bhansali Epic Alpha  marks Alia’s entrance into the YRF Spy Universe, sharing screen space with Sharvari. She also stars in Bhansali’s Love and War  alongside Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal. Talk about balancing espionage with epic romance. Conclusion: These six actresses aren’t just following trends—they’re setting them . With gutsy choices and diverse storytelling, they’re redefining what it means to be a Bollywood heroine in 2025.

Move over bro-code, it’s time for the bold code . These five female filmmakers—Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, Mansi Bagla, Guneet Monga, Pragya Kapoor, and Ektaa Kapoor—aren’t just directing or producing films. They’re flipping the script, genre by genre, and redefining what Indian cinema feels  like. Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari: The Empathy Architect Films like Nil Battey Sannata , Panga , and Bareilly Ki Barfi  made Ashwiny a master of middle India magic. She doesn't shout feminism—she lives  it through real stories of real women. Mansi Bagla: Bollywood’s Quiet Disruptor From Forensic  to Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan , Mansi Bagla is all about storytelling that challenges conventions—like a blind hero in a romantic musical. It's not flashy rebellion; it's meaningful innovation. Guneet Monga: Global Indie Royalty Oscar winner. The Lunchbox . Masaan . Kathal . Guneet gives Indian stories an international soul. Her work proves Indian cinema isn’t just commercial—it’s cultural capital . Pragya Kapoor: Emotion Meets Revolution Whether it's climate ( Maali ), identity ( Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui ), or spirituality ( Kedarnath ), Pragya Kapoor delivers spectacles that move you—and make you think. Ektaa Kapoor: The Empire Builder From TRPs to theatrical thrillers, Ektaa Kapoor mastered every medium. She knows  what the masses want and then surprises them anyway. Conclusion: These five women are not outliers. They’re the new normal . And the cinematic future? It’s already wearing heels.

The Medha Shankr we see on-screen is remarkably different from the off-screen one! Just as much as she impresses everyone on the bigger canvas, Medha is equally interesting in real life too! As she celebrates her birthday today, here are five unknown facts about the actress you probably didn’t know! 1. For the unversed, Medha Shankr is a trained classical singer. Yes, you read that right! She has even impressed her fans with impromptu singing sessions, leaving many surprised with her singing talent. Recently, she even dropped her own version of Jugraafiya from Super 30, and received praise from audiences and celebrities, too! 2. Medha Shankr is also a dancer! Since her younger days, Medha has grown up dancing in her schools and society functions, making the art form stay with her. While the actress hasn’t explored the dancing space on-screen, her fans would surely like to see her dance her heart out! 3. Medha even likes to pick up a pen and fill pages during her leisure! For the unknown, the 12th Fail actress has written two scripts by herself, completely personal to her. Despite this, her fans would surely like to see a glimpse of her writing knack! 4. Medha is an avid traveller. From the plush greenery to beaches and mountains, the actress likes to take some time off from her schedule to relax and rejuvenate in the open air. 5. Medha is also a hearty food-lover! At times when actresses stick to strict diets, Medha comforts her soul by relishing different delicacies and cuisines, be it scrumptious street food or gourmet. Though Medha has recently stepped into Bollywood and has won hearts with her acting prowess, she is surely multi-talented, and her fans are eager to see more of her!

Alright, let's talk about Son of Sardaar 2 . If you're walking into this expecting anything remotely close to nuanced storytelling or groundbreaking cinema, you're in the wrong theater. This film is a loud, chaotic, and often baffling attempt to recreate the "magic" of its predecessor, and frankly, it mostly trips over its own feet. What I Liked (Barely) Honestly, the few moments of genuine laughter came almost exclusively from Ravi Kishan . The man is a riot, and his comic timing is impeccable. He pretty much carries the comedic load, delivering some truly hilarious lines and making the most out of his screentime. Ajay Devgn, bless his heart, tries his best with his signature deadpan humor, and a few of his gags do land. If you're a die-hard fan of his particular brand of comedy, you might find fleeting moments of enjoyment. Where It All Went Wrong Let's not sugarcoat it: the plot is a convoluted mess . It's like they threw every possible comedic trope into a blender and hoped for the best. Jassi's journey from an estranged husband to a fake war hero involved in a mafia war and a bizarre wedding in Scotland is as nonsensical as it sounds. The film tries to juggle too many elements – India-Pakistan banter, awkward romance, family drama – and ends up fumbling most of them. The pacing is a real issue . The first half is a slow, tedious slog. You're just waiting for something, anything , to click, and it rarely does. By the time the second half picks up, you're already exhausted. Many of the jokes feel forced, wildly out of place, or just plain outdated. It relies heavily on slapstick and over-the-top gags that often fall flat, making you cringe more than laugh. And the chemistry between Ajay Devgn and Mrunal Thakur ? It's practically non-existent. It feels incredibly forced and lacks any genuine warmth or conviction. The age gap isn't the issue; it's the complete absence of any believable romantic spark that makes their scenes together awkward and unconvincing. Even the action sequences feel uninspired, and the music is entirely forgettable. The scenic locales of Scotland are barely utilized, serving as little more than a backdrop for the chaotic proceedings. The Verdict Ultimately, Son of Sardaar 2  is a film that demands you switch off your brain entirely. If you're looking for a mindless, loud, and occasionally funny distraction, and you're willing to overlook a messy plot, inconsistent humor, and a lack of genuine connection between the leads, then maybe, just maybe, you'll find it tolerable. For me, it was a largely uneven and forgettable experience that struggled to live up to the original's chaotic charm. It's a "paisa vasool" only if your definition of value is a few scattered laughs amidst a whole lot of noise.

The much-anticipated Dhadak 2 , starring the talented Siddhant Chaturvedi and Triptii Dimri, has finally arrived, and it's a cinematic experience that is both raw and deeply affecting. As a "spiritual sequel" to the 2018 film Dhadak , this movie sheds the gloss and instead offers a gritty, heart-rending look at the realities of caste discrimination and forbidden love in modern India. A Story That Hits You Where It Hurts Based on the acclaimed Tamil film Pariyerum Perumal , Dhadak 2  follows the journey of Nilesh (Siddhant Chaturvedi), a law student from a marginalized caste, and Vidhi (Triptii Dimri), an upper-caste girl who also studies at the same college. Their romance is not the central focus, but rather a vehicle to explore the pervasive and brutal injustices that Nilesh faces simply for existing. The film is unflinching in its portrayal of his struggles, from subtle snubs to outright violence. It forces the audience to confront uncomfortable truths, ripping off the "moral mask" that hides caste discrimination in urban settings. Director Shazia Iqbal, who also co-wrote the screenplay, handles this sensitive subject with honesty and restraint. While some critics feel the first half is a bit uneven, the film truly finds its footing after the interval, building to a powerful and emotional climax that leaves a lasting impact. The narrative doesn't shy away from depicting the harsh realities of oppression, but it also finds moments of genuine humor and humanity, preventing the film from becoming relentlessly bleak. Performances That Will Stay With You Siddhant Chaturvedi delivers what many are calling a career-best performance. His transformation from a timid young man to a self-assured individual, simmering with a quiet rage and wounded resilience, is nothing short of brilliant. He embodies the pain and struggle of his character with a raw intensity that is both convincing and deeply moving. Triptii Dimri is equally impactful as Vidhi. Stripped of the usual Bollywood glamour, she is vulnerable yet supportive, and her performance is a testament to her acting prowess. Her character's journey is one of awakening, as she confronts the ingrained prejudices of her own family and society. Together, Dimri and Chaturvedi share a natural, lived-in chemistry that makes their romance believable, even if some critics felt it was a little underdeveloped compared to the social commentary. A Necessary and Powerful Film Dhadak 2  is more than just a love story; it's a social commentary that demands to be seen. While its predecessor focused on a star-crossed romance in a different setting, this film uses its love story as a powerful lens to examine systemic injustice. It's a courageous and bold piece of cinema that tackles a pressing societal issue with sincerity and depth. The film may not be a light-hearted watch, but for its powerful storytelling, stellar performances, and a message that is both timely and essential, Dhadak 2  is a must-watch. It's a movie that will not only touch your heart but also challenge your mind and make you think long after the credits have rolled.

The legendary Amitabh Bachchan has extended his support to Matrix Fight Night (MFN), India’s premier platform for MMA fighters. Ahead of the much-anticipated event on 2nd August, Bachchan took to his official X (formerly Twitter) handle to wish Jackie Shroff and the entire MFN team. He wrote, “T 5456(i) - All good wishes and prayers Jackie.” Bachchan’s encouragement has added to the growing momentum around MFN—a platform dedicated to empowering Indian athletes. Founded by Krishna Shroff and Ayesha Shroff, MFN has become a driving force in India’s MMA scene by giving young fighters the recognition, training, and stage they deserve. MFN continues to lead the charge in promoting combat sports in the country, with a strong focus on nurturing talent and supporting the dreams of passionate Indian sportsmen and women.

Gangsters. Grit. Guns. And a major OTT giant going full masala theatrical. Bollywood’s master of messy morality and underground realism, Anurag Kashyap, is officially back with Nishaanchi , a gangster thriller that promises to revisit the dark, pulsating streets that made Gangs of Wasseypur  a cult. The film is scheduled to release in theatres on September 19, 2025 . And what’s wild? The backing. It’s not Phantom Films this time—Kashyap’s long-brewing script found its godfather in Amazon MGM Studios , marking one of the first major Hollywood + Bollywood  collabs that’s genuinely creative-first . In Kashyap’s words, it felt like going back to the days when his best work got the right kind of support. The Storyline: Nishaanchi  follows the turbulent journey of two brothers who take starkly different paths in life think crime, betrayal, and the classic Kashyap themes of power, redemption, and everything in between. It’s all about the consequence emotional, political, and violent. Casting Curveball: The film is headlined by Aaishvary Thackeray , yes, from that  Thackeray lineage. But don’t dismiss him as another political scion cashing in—he cut his teeth as an assistant director on Bajirao Mastani . Joining him are rising stars like Vedika Pinto , Monika Panwar , Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub , and the ever-reliable Kumud Mishra . Why This Matters for Bollywood: For Amazon MGM, this is more than content play—this is positioning. Theatres in India are still kingmakers, and a gritty gangster epic backed by an iconic indie director is a signal to the industry: the OTT giant wants prestige and  pop appeal. Nishaanchi  could be Kashyap’s return to theatrical relevance, a comeback on his own terms. It’s retro, it’s violent, it’s emotional—and in a sea of sanitized Bollywood, that might just be its greatest asset.