Author: Ankita Singh

Imtiaz Ali’s “Amar Singh Chamkila” has secured not one, but two prestigious nominations at the 53rd International Emmy Awards.

Nominations and Competition

The protagonist Diljit Dosanjh was nominated for ‘Best Actor,’ and “Amar Singh Chamkila” itself was nominated in the ‘Best TV Movie/Mini-Series’ category. Unfortunately, the project went home empty-handed at the Emmys, held on Monday night in New York.

“Amar Singh Chamkila” competed for the ‘Best TV Movie/Mini-Series’ award alongside Germany’s “Herrhausen: The Banker and the Bomb,” the UK’s “Lost Boys and Fairies,” and Chile’s “Vencer o Morir (Victory or Death).” The coveted award was ultimately presented to “Lost Boys and Fairies.”

Disappointment for Diljit

Shattering all hopes, Diljit, in the ‘Best Performance by an Actor’ category, faced fierce competition from David Mitchell for “Ludwig,” Oriol Pla for “Yo, adicto (I, Addict),” and Diego Vasquez for “One Hundred Years of Solitude.” The title went to the Spanish actor Oriol Pla instead.

Red Carpet Moments

Despite the losses, Diljit and Imtiaz made a significant impact on the red carpet at the International Emmys. Diljit was seen greeting photographers with his signature namaste.

Alongside Diljit and Imtiaz, the Netflix India team, including Vice President of Content Monika Shergill and Director of Original Films Ruchikaa Kapoor Sheikh, also attended the event.

Imtiaz Ali’s Vision

During the 53rd International Emmy World Television Festival’s panel and medal ceremony, Imtiaz described “Amar Singh Chamkila” as a love story between an artist and their art.

He stated, “For me, this was a love story between an artist and his art. A singer and performance are like lovers; at some point, you don’t do it for money, success, and glamour. You do it for the performance itself, beyond any logic, to serve their audiences. That was the strongest impulse in Amar Singh Chamkila’s character, and that is what I focused on.”

Hollywood star Scarlett Johansson is gearing up to enter the horror genre with the upcoming “Exorcist” movie, a collaboration between Universal and Blumhouse-Atomic Monster.

About the New “Exorcist”

The new “Exorcist” will take place within the same universe as the iconic 1973 film and will not serve as a sequel to “Believer.” Specific plot details and additional cast members have yet to be confirmed. Filming is scheduled to occur in New York City, as reported by variety.com.

Creative Leadership

Mike Flanagan is at the helm as writer, director, and producer of this latest installment, touted as a “radical new take” on the original concept.

“Scarlett is a brilliant actress whose captivating performances always feel grounded and real, from genre films to summer blockbusters, and I couldn’t be happier to have her join this ‘Exorcist’ film,” said Flanagan, who is well-known for his work on “Doctor Sleep” and “The Life of Chuck.”

Historical Context

The original “Exorcist,” directed by William Friedkin, follows a mother who hires two Catholic priests to perform an exorcism on her demonically possessed 12-year-old daughter. Released in 1973, the film earned critical acclaim and commercial success, grossing $441 million worldwide and receiving 10 Oscar nominations.

Johansson’s Recent Ventures

Johansson recently revitalized another major franchise for Universal with this summer’s “Jurassic World Rebirth,” which grossed $868 million globally. An Oscar nominee for her roles in “Marriage Story” and “Jojo Rabbit,” Johansson made her directorial debut earlier this year with “Eleanor the Great,” a feel-good dramedy featuring June Squibb.

Recognized as one of the highest-grossing lead actresses in cinematic history, Johansson’s accolades include a British Academy Film Award, a Tony Award, and nominations for two Academy Awards and five Golden Globe Awards.

Upcoming Projects

Next, she will appear in “Ray Gunn,” directed by Brad Bird, alongside voice talents like Sam Rockwell, Jamie Costa, and John Ratzenberger. Following that, she has “Paper Tiger” with Adam Driver and Miles Teller, which tells the story of two brothers chasing the American Dream while getting caught in a menacing Russian mafia plot that threatens their family and tests their bond amid potential betrayal.

Actress Ameesha Patel shared an heartfelt tribute to the late star Dharmendra, reflecting on his warmth and the unique way he would call her from afar, often greeting her with “Arrey meri Sakina” before enveloping her in a bear hug.

Ameesha took to Instagram, posting a picture of the two embracing. She emphasized that she would always cherish the way Dharmendra greeted her from a distance.

She wrote: “Dharamji I will miss ur warm hugs n u screaming ‘ARREY MERI SAKINA’ when u used to see me from a distance n I used to run to hug u !! V hard to say farewell to the incredible man that Dharamji was !! (sic).”

Having collaborated with Dharmendra’s son Sunny Deol in the “Gadar” franchise, she remarked, “Some losses are irreplaceable n will leave a vacuum n a void forever!! (sic).”

Referring to Dharmendra as the original He-Man, she noted that his charm and screen presence could rival anyone in Hollywood. However, she believed that his true legacy extended well beyond his stardom.

“A man that was the OG He man n looks that cud give anyone in Hollywood a run for their money !! But what he leaves behind is not merely a legacy of super stardom n fame but a legacy of being the most TERRIFIC HUMAN Being !! A rarity to be remembered on purely Humanitarian grounds in today’s world !! OM Shanti !! Heaven is a better place because ur there now love u (sic),” she concluded.

Dharmendra passed away at the age of 89 in his residence. He had recently been hospitalized at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital due to breathlessness.

On the professional front, Dharmendra, who was last seen in the movie “Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya” in 2024, will be posthumously featured in the film “Ikkis,” directed by ace filmmaker Sriram Raghavan. The movie also stars Agastya Nanda and Simar Bhatia, and is a war drama based on the life of Arun Khetarpal, the youngest Param Vir Chakra recipient.

Kartik Aaryan has expressed his admiration for the legendary actor Dharmendra, stating that he has shown the world “what it means to dream big.”

The ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’ star shared a throwback photo of Dharmendra from one of his films on the Stories section of his Instagram handle. Thanking the iconic star for the unforgettable memories he has provided to movie enthusiasts, Kartik said, “From a small village of Punjab to the silver screen, you have shown the world what it means to dream big. Your legacy will continue to inspire generations. Thank you Sir, for the unforgettable memories at the movies,” accompanied by teary-eyed, folded hands, and white heart emojis.

Recently, Dharmendra was admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital after complaining of breathlessness. Following necessary treatment, he was discharged on November 12 and chose to continue his recovery at home. Unfortunately, Dharmendra passed away on November 24.

For those who may not know, Dharmendra, born in 1935 in Punjab, first graced the big screen in the 1960s with the film “Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere.” Before his Bollywood debut, he was discovered during a nationwide talent hunt organized by Filmfare magazine in association with Bimal Roy Productions. His striking looks and natural charm helped him win the contest, marking the beginning of his cinematic journey.

After his debut, Dharmendra rose to prominence in the mid-1960s with films such as “Ayee Milan Ki Bela,” “Phool Aur Patthar,” and “Aaye Din Bahar Ke.” He quickly became one of Bollywood’s most celebrated actors, delivering massive hits like “Phool Aur Patthar,” “Dharam Veer,” and “Seeta Aur Geeta.” He has carved a special place in the hearts of cinephiles, especially for his portrayal of the beloved Veeru in “Sholay.”

The makers of director Vetrimaaran’s highly anticipated action entertainer ‘Arasan,’ featuring actor Silambarasan in the lead role, have welcomed actor Vijay Sethupathi to the film’s unit.

Kalaipuli S Thanu of V Creations, the production house behind the movie, took to his X timeline to express his excitement in Tamil: “Manitham Inaigiradhu, Magathuvam Therigiradhu. (Humanity connects, greatness is visible) #VetriMaaran @SilambarasanTR_ @VijaySethuOffl @anirudhofficial #SilambarasanTR #ARASAN.” He also shared a poster announcing Vijay Sethupathi’s addition to the cast.

Since the release of the film’s promo, ‘Arasan’ has generated significant interest among fans and cinema enthusiasts.

Promo Highlights

The promo begins on a light note, featuring director Nelson in a cameo. Silambarasan (Simbu) tells Nelson that what he’s about to reveal is entirely true. He mentions that the killers, victims, names, and places are all real. However, he urges Nelson not to depict everything as it is, advising him to include a disclaimer in the film. “I’m saying this only because most of the cases I’m going to tell you are still under trial,” he cautions, mentioning that the revelation could implicate many, including “innocents” like himself, lawyers, politicdigihunt, police officers, and judges.

As Simbu shares this, the makers of ‘Arasan’ release a disclaimer. He explains to a visibly anxious Nelson that with a disclaimer, even if the incidents are true, no one can question the film. Simbu then notes that his own case is up for hearing soon and promises to return with more details.

As he heads to the courtroom, he is guided by his lawyer. When he takes the stand, the judge describes how the police have charged him with committing three murders in one night and asks for his plea. Simbu denies any involvement, yet subsequent scenes suggest otherwise, showing him as the one responsible for the victims’ deaths.

The promo indicates that ‘Arasan’ will unveil an untold story from the world of ‘Vada Chennai.’ Recently, the filmmakers announced the title of the film as ‘Arasan.’

Vetrimaran’s project with Simbu will also star Andrea Jeremiah, Samuthirakani, and Kishore in prominent roles, with music composed by Anirudh.

It’s also worth noting that Vetrimaran has clarified that ‘Arasan’ will not be ‘Vada Chennai 2,’ as speculated in various media outlets. While the upcoming film features Simbu in the lead, its story is set in the same universe as ‘Vada Chennai.’

Actress Elnaaz Norouzi, stepping into new territory with Mastiii 4, shares that this film arrived at the perfect time, providing her with a much-needed shift from the serious and patriotic roles she’s portrayed in recent years.

New Beginnings

Elnaaz expressed her excitement about taking on a role that deviates from her past work. The enduring popularity of the franchise and the comic flair of its male leads, Vivek Oberoi, Riteish Deshmukh, and Aftab Shivdasani, made the project particularly appealing.

“I have waited to do a project that is different from the kind of work I have done till now. Masti has been an entertainment franchise and has been holding ground for so long,” she stated.

A Fresh Perspective

Elnaaz finds the male leads extremely entertaining and commended their acting skills. She also acknowledged that the script has evolved with the times under Milap’s direction. After her serious roles in patriotic films, she expresses her desire to showcase her comedic side as well.

“I wanted people to see that I can be funny too.”

Character Dynamics

While Elnaaz admits that she has little in common with her character, Bindiya, this contrast excited her about the role.

“Bindiya and I cannot be more different,” she said, highlighting the challenge actors face in embodying characters vastly different from themselves.

“As an actor, that’s what we do and quite honestly, that’s what we love to do – we get to play and be people we are not and then learn from their story. Bindiya has a big and soft heart; she would bring home a stranger to support them, even at the risk of upsetting her marriage. This is something impossible for me. I am guilty of being possessive and private in my personal space. I would never be able to do that. I would not be able to do many things that she does.”

Movie Plot

Released theatrically on 21 November, Mastiii 4 reunites the trio Amar, Meet, and Prem, who feel confined in their mundane married lives and yearn for the thrill of their younger days. Upon hearing about a “Love Visa” that promises a week of complete freedom, they eagerly dive into this escapade, hoping for fun and mischief.

However, their adventure takes a wild turn when their wives also decide to break the rules in their own unique ways.

Veteran singer Nitin Mukesh has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late star Dharmendra by sharing a poignant video of himself singing “Mujhko Is Raat Ki Tanhai Mein,” a classic number from the actor’s debut 1960 film, Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere.

Nitin Mukesh took to Instagram to share this emotional rendition of the track originally sung by the legendary Mukesh, Nitin’s father. In the caption, he expressed how special this song is to his family.

“THIS SONG BECOMES ALL THE MORE POIGNANT TODAY… SURELY ONE OF THE MOST RESPECTED AND ADORED ‘GENTLEMAN’ STARS IN THE GALAXY…” he wrote, honoring Dharmendra’s legacy.

He further reflected on the significance of the song, noting, “MY BELOVED PAPA SANG THIS SONG… THE FIRST EVER TO BE FILMED ON HIM… WILL MISS U DHARAM JI….”

Directed by Arjun Hingorani, Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere features Balraj Sahni, Dharmendra, and Kumkum. The film narrates the story of Panchu and Ashok, who struggle to make ends meet through petty sales and pick-pocketing, but their lives take a major turn when they fall in love and marry.

Dharmendra sadly passed away on November 24, following a recent hospitalization at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital due to breathlessness. After treatment, he was discharged on November 12 and had been recuperating at home.

On the professional front, Dharmendra was last seen in the film Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya in 2024, alongside Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon. He will also appear posthumously in Ikkis, directed by Sriram Raghavan, featuring Agastya Nanda and Simar Bhatia. This war drama is based on the life of Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra.

Talking about his late father, Mukesh was one of the most respected playback singers in the Hindi film industry. His song “Kai Baar Yuhi Dekha Hai” from the film Rajnigandha earned him the National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer. Known for his iconic voice, Mukesh lent his singing to legendary actors like Raj Kapoor, Manoj Kumar, Feroz Khan, Sunil Dutt, and Dilip Kumar. He passed away in 1976 due to a heart attack in Detroit, Michigan, where he was performing a concert.

Tollywood star Ram Charan mourned the loss of Dharmendra, a legend credited with transforming Indian cinema and touching countless hearts throughout his career.

Taking to his official X account, the ‘RRR’ actor expressed his sorrow, stating, “Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of legendary actor #Dharmendra Ji. A star who touched millions of hearts and changed the face of Indian Cinema. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and fans.”

Since the news of Dharmendra ji’s passing broke, heartfelt tributes have been pouring in from all sides for the ‘He-Man’ of Bollywood.

Ram Charan’s father, the beloved Telugu star Chiranjeevi, also paid tribute, saying, “Sri Dharmji was not only a legendary actor but also a remarkable human being. The humility and warmth I experienced every time I met him deeply touched my heart. I will forever cherish the fond memories and personal moments I shared with him.”

He added, “My heartfelt condolences on his passing. May his noble soul rest in eternal peace. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, especially my dear friends Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of millions. Om Shanti.”

Amitabh Bachchan, expressing his grief over the loss of the Bollywood icon, remarked that “another valiant Giant has left us.”

His emotional post reflected on the impact of Dharmendra’s presence, stating, “…another valiant Giant has left us … left the arena … leaving behind a silence with an unbearable sound … Dharam ji … the epitome of greatness, ever linked not only for his renowned physical presence, but for the largeness of his heart and its most endearing simplicity.”

He continued, “He brought with him the earthiness of the village in Punjab he came from and remained true to its temperament … unsoiled throughout his glorious career, in a fraternity that witnessed changes every decade. The fraternity underwent changes … not him. His smile, his charm, and his warmth extended to all that came in his vicinity … a rarity in the profession. The air about us swings vacant … a vacuum that shall ever remain vacuus … prayers.”

Acclaimed actor Naseeruddin Shah has expressed his deep sorrow over the passing of Dharmendra, describing him as irreplaceable and fondly reflecting on their enduring friendship and professional collaboration.

Naseeruddin took to Instagram to share a poster of the 1985 film Ghulami, marking their first project together. Directed by J. P. Dutta, the socio-political drama featured Dharmendra as Ranjit Singh Choudhary and Shah as Thakur Sultan Singh.

In his heartfelt caption, Naseeruddin wrote, “This was the first time I met the great man himself. I was privileged to work with him on two other projects besides this one. A Dharmendra sized hole is impossible to fill. I treasure the affection I received from him.”

He continued, “Not everyone can claim a 60-year-long, thoroughly deserved stardom. May he rest in eternal peace. Aameen.”

The two actors also shared the screen in the 1981 film Naina and the action-adventure Tahalka, which was released in 1992.

Dharmendra passed away on November 24. Recently, he had been hospitalized at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital due to complaints of breathlessness. After receiving treatment, he was discharged on November 12 and continued his recovery at home.

On the professional side, Dharmendra was last seen in the movie Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, which is set to release in 2024, featuring actors Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon.

Posthumously, the late star will appear in the film Ikkis, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sriram Raghavan. This war drama also stars Agastya Nanda and Simar Bhatia and is based on the life of Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra.

Dharmendra is widely celebrated as one of the greatest, most handsome, and commercially successful film stars in the history of Indian cinema, with a prolific career spanning over six decades and more than 300 films to his credit.

He set a record for starring in the highest number of hit films in Hindi cinema and was honored with the Padma Bhushan in 2012.

Celebrated actor Kamal Haasan expressed his sorrow over the passing of Bollywood icon Dharmendra in a touching tribute. He extended his condolences to Dharmendra’s family and fans, describing the ‘He-Man’ of Bollywood as a unique and kind figure in Indian cinema.

Haasan shared his heartfelt sentiments on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend and legendary actor Dharmendra ji. Dharam Ji’s charm, humility and strength of spirit were as real off-screen as on it. Indian cinema has lost one of its kindest icons. My heartfelt condolences to his family and admirers.”

Numerous other prominent figures from the entertainment industry also took to social media to express their grief.

Rajinikanth shared, “Farewell, my friend. I will always remember your golden heart and the moments we shared. Rest in peace, Dharam ji. My deepest condolences to his family.”

Mollywood superstar Mohanlal remarked, “The passing of Dharmendraji marks the end of a cinematic era. A legend whose warmth and artistry will live on forever. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. Om Shanti.”

Another notable personality from the Malayalam film industry, Mammootty, said, “A true icon has left us. Dharam ji’s legacy will continue to inspire every generation. Heartfelt condolences and prayers.”

Chiranjeevi paid tribute by noting, “Sri Dharmji was not only a legendary actor but also a remarkable human being. The humility and warmth I experienced every time I met him deeply touched my heart. I will forever cherish the fond memories and personal moments I shared with him.”

He added, “My heartfelt condolences on his passing. May his noble soul rest in eternal peace. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, especially my dear friends Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of millions. Om Shanti.”

Dharmendra was recently hospitalized at Breach Candy Hospital due to breathing difficulties. After being discharged on November 12, he was recovering at home. Sadly, on November 24, the beloved Bollywood star passed away.