Author: Ankita Singh

Singer-turned-fashion designer Victoria Beckham has found reflecting on her time with the Spice Girls to be “quite triggering” for her new Netflix documentary series titled “Victoria Beckham.”

The 51-year-old star shared with the Sunday Times Style magazine, “I’ve been defined by a four-year period in my life. That was the Spice Girls. It’s taken me almost two decades to fight that, and I feel that only now can I look back and talk about it.”

Beckham opened up about her emotions, stating, “I’m not going to lie, being asked questions about when I was in the Spice Girls was quite triggering. And I’d say those were the most difficult moments. It was almost like therapy for me.”

Despite the challenges, she expressed pride in her achievements with the group. Beckham mentioned that she remains in contact with all her bandmates, sharing, “I love the Spice Girls. I really do. And it’s been great reflecting on that time. The other night, I had dinner with Emma and Geri, and Mel B messaged me at the weekend. I still speak to all of the girls. I’m so proud of everything we did. I wouldn’t have been who I am now if it wasn’t for the Spice Girls, 100 per cent.”

Speaking candidly about her experience, Beckham acknowledged it was emotional. When asked if she avoided topics, she replied, “No. I mean, I touch on my family, I touch on the Spice Girls, the problems we’ve had with the business, you know, the money we’ve lost — there have been lots of triggers.”

She admitted that the documentary brought her to tears: “I cried. Like I said, I haven’t seen the final edit, but yes, I did cry. It takes quite a lot to make me cry, but I did cry. You know, I’ve earned my place to show in Paris, I’ve earned the respect.”

Beckham agreed to her own documentary series after being pleasantly surprised by the positive response to her appearances in David Beckham’s fly-on-the-wall programme. She remarked, “If I’m being completely honest, I didn’t love me in that documentary… I was surprised by how positive the feedback was with what I brought to it. David’s documentary made me realise how good it feels to be wrong. I like being wrong. I was wrong, and bring it on. I love that.”

Actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu recently shared her thoughts on navigating student pressure and reflected on her own school experiences.

In a question and answer session with her fans, a social media user inquired about how to maintain health while managing their studies. The user expressed concern, stating, “How to focus on health? Being a student it’s really hard to find time!! Can u plz give suggestions? (sic).”

Responding to the question, Samantha acknowledged, “Honestly, it has been a long time since I was a student but I have been hearing a lot about how difficult it is right now for students. The stress is ….” She noted that her own school experience wasn’t as challenging as it seems to be today.

“I empathise with you and I really want you to understand that good grades are not everything. I think what I learnt most from being a student—and the most important part—was the friendships that I made, the respect I had for people around me, and the kindness that I learned from my friends,” she elaborated.

Reflecting on her school lessons, Samantha shared, “I learnt empathy, kindness, I learnt how to be a better human and I think these qualities honestly worked out for me.” She emphasized, “I don’t remember any of the things that I studied in school, but these are the qualities that stayed with me and are really important in life.”

Samantha also addressed a serious topic by sharing a news article about student suicides in India in 2023, with Maharashtra reporting the highest cases, according to NCRB reports. She expressed her feelings about this tragedy by posting a heartbreak emoji.

When asked about her upcoming Telugu project, Samantha revealed that she finally has an update, stating she will begin filming this month.

Celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor recently celebrated a significant milestone in his life—33 years of marriage with his wife, Alyona Kapoor.

Sharing the joy on Instagram, Sanjeev posted a heartfelt message overflowing with love and cherished memories. Alongside a few throwback pictures with Alyona, he expressed, “33 years of love, laughter and a few spilled masalas! Through every twist and turn, we’ve learned, laughed, and grown. Every moment has made this journey worth it. Here’s to celebrating the past and embracing whatever comes next.”

Nostalgia filled the air as Sanjeev reminisced about their early dating days, showcasing images that capture the essence of their love story. One throwback image shows the couple gazing lovingly into each other’s eyes, while another features them smiling together for the camera. A particularly charming moment captured Sanjeev feeding cake to Alyona.

Their love story reportedly began during a train journey between Delhi and Banaras. After dating for five years, the couple tied the knot in October 1992. Blessed with two daughters, Rachita and Kriti, Alyona plays a vital role in the family’s food ventures, often appearing in projects like the “Family Food Tales” series.

Sanjeev first gained fame through his iconic show, “Khana Khazana.” In April, he was a guest on Bharti Singh and Harsh Limbachiyaa’s YouTube podcast, where he shared insights about creating Khana Khazana, a beloved show centered on Indian cuisine and directed by Hansal Mehta.

Reflecting on his journey, Sanjeev shared, “I could never memorize a script. I never read from one. On the day my show was set to start, they handed me a paper with an opening monologue. I still remember it. They also gave me an outfit that looked like a raincoat — I didn’t realize TV had such specific wardrobe requirements. We were shooting at Juhu Beach. It took me nearly a month to memorize that monologue. Back when we started doing TV, there wasn’t really ‘TV’ the way we know it now. After shooting, I said, ‘We’ve done it your way — now let me try it my way.’”

Sanjeev Kapoor’s journey remains a testament to love and culinary passion, inspiring many along the way.

Popular television actress Rupali Ganguly recently delighted her fans with a retro-inspired dance video that pays homage to the iconic Asha Bhosle and Kishore Kumar.

Dazzling Dance Display

In her latest post, Rupali dances to the timeless classic “Intaha Ho Gayi Intezar Ki,” bringing an elegant old-school Bollywood charm with her graceful moves and vintage vibes. The ‘Anupamaa’ actress shared the video on her Instagram, where she is seen lip-syncing and dancing to the lyrics, “Are, logon ne diye honge. Bade bade nazaraane. Laai hun main tere liye dil mera.” She sported a chic white outfit, complemented by a matching neckpiece.

Captivating Caption

For the caption, she expressed her nostalgia, writing, “Retro feels… timeless charm never fades Sometimes, old-school is the new cool! Guess the decade — 70s or 80s? #retromood #rupaliganguly #OldIsGold #BollywoodRetro #ClassicVibes #RetroReel #Anupamaa #RetrowithRupali.”

Sharing Joyful Moments

Rupali is no stranger to sharing dance videos featuring classic Bollywood songs. Recently, she made headlines during the Durga Puja celebrations in Mumbai, where she shared a touching moment with Rani Mukerji. The two actresses were photographed embracing warmly in front of the Durga idol. Rupali later posted this moment on her social media, showcasing the joyous occasion. Both actresses looked stunning in traditional red and gold sarees; Rani accessorized with a statement choker necklace, while Rupali opted for a silk saree paired with a golden blouse and classic jhumkas.

Current Work

On the professional front, Rupali is garnering acclaim for her role in the popular show “Anupamaa,” which is an adaptation of the Bengali series “Sreemoyee.” Since its premiere on July 13, 2020, the show has consistently topped TRP ratings and features Adrija Roy and Shivam Khajuria as part of the new-generation leads.

Rupali Ganguly is widely celebrated for her memorable roles as Monisha Singh Sarabhai in the sitcom “Sarabhai vs Sarabhai” and as Dr. Simran Chopra in the medical drama “Sanjivani: A Medical Boon.”

Legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese recently shared that he once considered becoming a priest but was “kicked out” due to his “bad behavior.”

New Docuseries “Mr. Scorsese”

“Mr. Scorsese,” a new docuseries directed by Rebecca Miller, chronicles the life of this iconic director. The series premiered at the New York Film Festival on October 4.

In the first episode, which delves into Scorsese’s early years, he reflects on the substantial impact of religion during his childhood and young adult life. At just seven years old, Scorsese attended his first Catholic mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City, an experience that inspired his pursuit of religious education for several years.

Journey into Religion

“There was a preparatory seminary, and that was on 85th Street somewhere. I did okay for the first few months, but something happened,” Scorsese recalls. His fascination with the world beyond the church soon emerged.

“I began to realize the world is changing,” he explains. “It was early rock and roll and the old world was dying out. I became aware of life around me—falling in love, being attracted to girls. Not that you’re acting out on it, but there were these feelings, and I suddenly realized it’s much more complicated than this. You can’t shut yourself off.”

Ultimately, Scorsese recognized that the priesthood wasn’t his calling. “The idea of priesthood, to devote yourself to others, really, that’s what it’s about. I realized I don’t belong there,” he shares. “And I tried to stay, but they got my father in there, and they told him, ‘Get him out of here.’ Because I behaved badly.”

Exploration of Curiosity

While the documentary does not specify the nature of Scorsese’s bad behavior, the themes permeating his films—sex, drugs, and violence—suggest a wide array of curiosities.

Instead of following a religious path, Scorsese earned a B.A. in English from New York University’s Washington Square College, later obtaining an M.A. from the University’s School of Education. He made his directorial debut in 1967 with “Who’s That Knocking at My Door,” marking the start of an illustrious career filled with influential films such as “Taxi Driver,” “Raging Bull,” “Goodfellas,” “Casino,” “Gangs of New York,” and “The Irishman.”

Acclaim and Legacy

Having received ten Academy Award nominations for Best Director, Scorsese won his first Oscar in 2006 for “The Departed.”

“Mr. Scorsese” is set to be released on October 17 and comprises five episodes. The series features interviews with Scorsese, his family, and notable contemporaries, including Robert De Niro, Daniel Day-Lewis, Leonardo DiCaprio, Mick Jagger, Robbie Robertson, Thelma Schoonmaker, Steven Spielberg, Sharon Stone, Jodie Foster, Paul Schrader, Margot Robbie, and Cate Blanchett, among others.

Television actress Anita Hassanandani has shared her son Aaravv’s heartwarming reaction to her recent win on “Chhoriyan Chali Gaon.”

In an exclusive interview, Anita described how Aaravv proudly holds her trophy, showing it off to everyone while calling her “so cool” after witnessing her performance. When asked about Aarav’s reaction to her win, Anita revealed that he was filled with joy, constantly flaunting the trophy.

The ‘Yeh Hai Mohabbatein’ actress expressed, “Both of them are very proud of me. Aarav especially keeps holding the trophy and showing it to everyone. For me, as a mother, that’s the most special moment. When I signed this show, my only wish was for Aarav to be proud of me. When he saw me perform, he was like, ‘Wow, Mama, you were so cool!’ That’s exactly what I wanted to achieve, and I did.”

Reflecting on her journey in the reality show, Hassanandani said, “I think it was a very beautiful journey with all the ups and downs. The growth I was hoping to gain, I achieved all that. It will also help me a lot in the upbringing of Aarav. I learned so much that will be useful in the future. It was very challenging, especially the physical tasks that I did and won.”

She added, “When you win a trophy after working hard, it gives a different kind of happiness. I gave my hundred percent in every task, and I’m proud that I won. Overall, it was a beautiful and memorable experience.”

Regarding the significance of ‘Chhoriyan Chali Gaon’ in her career, Anita shared that the show holds a special place in her heart, both professionally and personally.

“I think I achieved a lot through this show. I grew, I learned, and it has become a milestone in my life. I’m very proud that I was part of Choriya Chali Gaon. It was the best experience of my life, and I would encourage everyone to experience something like this at least once,” stated Anita Hassanandani.

Actress Lily James has shared her unique ritual for focusing on her roles, which involves creating distinctive scents for each character she portrays. This practice, she believes, helps her concentrate better.

The 36-year-old actress revealed in a recent issue of Britain’s HELLO! magazine, “Every day, when I’m getting ready, I spray whatever it is on, and suddenly it takes you to a place and focuses you.” She finds scents to be incredibly seductive, stating, “I like to either spray scents that are already made, or I’ll create one and put it together.”

In her upcoming film Swiped, James takes on the role of Whitney Wolfe Herd, the founder and CEO of a dating app. She expressed that portraying a real-life figure comes with added pressure compared to acting as a fictional character, noting, “With a real person, first and foremost, you want to do them justice.”

James reflected on the complexities of telling someone else’s story, sharing, “Feeling as though you could ever possibly have the right to tell someone’s story is such a confusing conversation and something I think about a lot.”

Although she didn’t meet Whitney, 36, prior to working on Swiped, James dedicated herself to extensive research to accurately represent the businesswoman, who became the world’s youngest billionaire. “I watched hours of interviews with her, I read about her, I studied anything I could to get to know her. What I found was a life force and energy that is truly infectious,” she explained.

The actress admitted feeling “guilty” and a “bit of a fake” for starring in Swiped, as she has never used a dating app. Despite this, she believes it’s important to share Whitney’s story. “I think because hers is a true story of triumph and of building a legacy,” she said.

James emphasized the significance of representing female entrepreneurs, stating, “There have been a lot of films about male founders of big businesses, but not so many about females. Whitney is an inspiration, and her story is so powerful and full of hope and courage.”

Filmmaker Boney Kapoor expressed heartfelt sentiments for his daughter Anshula Kapoor on her roka. He shared that his “precious daughter” has found a “precious son-in-law” for him.

Boney took to Instagram, posting three photos, including an emotional moment where he hugged Anshula.

“My precious daughter found a precious son-in-law for me. Love you my bachha, all my blessings and happiness to you both forever,” he captioned the post.

Anshula responded in the comments, saying, “Love you dad.”

Boney was previously married to Mona Shourie from 1983 to 1996, and they share two children, Arjun Kapoor and Anshula. He later married the late actress Sridevi in 1996.

The Kapoor family gathered to celebrate Anshula and Rohan Thakkar’s “Gor Dhana” ceremony on October 2. This event highlighted the close-knit bond of the Kapoor clan. Anshula, who wore a stunning purple embroidered lehenga, shared joyful moments with her stepsisters Janhvi Kapoor and Khushi Kapoor, as well as her cousin Shanaya Kapoor. Arjun also joined for a family portrait, showcasing their happiness.

Anshula and Rohan first connected in 2022 via a dating app and spent their initial conversation talking all night. After three years of dating, Rohan proposed to Anshula in New York, at Central Park, in front of a castle at precisely 1:15 AM IST— the same moment they first spoke.

In other news, Anshula’s brother Arjun Kapoor was last seen in “Mere Husband Ki Biwi,” directed by Mudassar Aziz, which also features Bhumi Pednekar and Rakul Preet Singh. Recently, he shared an update about an early morning flight with the caption: “My happy face for a 6:30 AM flight.”

Filmmaker Boney Kapoor left his daughter Jahnvi Kapoor and her rumored boyfriend Shikhar Pahariya in splits with his entertaining take on Justin Bieber’s “Go Baby.”

A fun video was shared by Orry on his Instagram handle, where he playfully asked Boney to complete the popular song’s lyrics. In a humorous response, Boney accused Orry of using him for clout. The lyrics began with, “That’s my baby, she’s iconic…iPhone case, lip gloss on it.”

Boney added his own twist, saying, “Orry, you are not my baby, and this is just platonic. You are using me for clout, and this is just demonic,” which had everyone in the room laughing hysterically. Orry captioned the clip, “He knows. @boney.kapoor @janhvikapoor @shikharpahariya @lilbieber @haileybieber. (sic)”

In other news, Boney’s daughter Anshula Kapoor recently got engaged to Rohan Thakkar. During the “Gor Dhana” ceremony, she shared a heartwarming father-daughter dance with Boney. The video posted by Anshula showcased the filmmaker kissing her hands affectionately before they broke into a slow dance.

Boney also planted a sweet kiss on Anshula’s cheek during the celebrations. An emotional Anshula expressed, “My first dance with dad @boney.kapoor (red heart emoji) To be twirled by him made me feel like a little girl again… undoubtedly, one of my most favorite memories from the night… Love you dad (hug emoji).”

Meanwhile, half-sister Jahnvi and Shikhar Pahariya’s romantic gestures caught significant attention during Anshula’s ceremony. In one of the photos, Shikhar can be seen standing behind Jahnvi, his hand resting on her shoulder, while she held onto his little finger, showcasing a sweet display of affection. Although Jahnvi and Shikhar have never officially confirmed their relationship, they frequently share posts for each other on social media and make public appearances together.

Actress Neha Dhupia’s baby boy, Guriq Singh Dhupia Bedi, celebrated his 4th birthday recently.

Cherished Memories on a Special Day

To mark the occasion, Neha shared a series of rare photographs capturing their precious moments together. From cradling him as a newborn to enjoying vacations and sharing prayers, she highlighted the beautiful mother-son relationship that has blossomed over the years.

In a heartfelt birthday message for her little one, Neha wrote, “Our dearest Guriq, You light up every room you walk into, you make mama’s world go round (world emoji)… no caption is enough to describe the love we have in our hearts for you…. Happy fabulous fourth our baby boy… we celebrate you today and everyday our Guqqu… (red heart emojis) @guriqdhupiabedi (sic).”

Warm Wishes from Friends

Bipasha Basu also sent her wishes for Guriq’s special day, commenting, “Happy Birthday Baby Boy,” along with a red heart emoji.

A Quick Family Background

For those who may not know, Neha married actor Angad Bedi, son of former Indian cricket captain Bishan Singh Bedi, in a private ceremony at a Gurudwara on 10 May 2018. They welcomed their first child, a baby girl named Mehr Dhupia Bedi, on 18 November 2018. Their second child, Guriq, was born on 3 October 2021.

Recent Celebrations

Last week, Neha celebrated her mother’s birthday with a lovely post on Instagram, sharing candid photographs with her mom and captioning it, “#happybirthday my ma, my pyaar (red heart emoji) my world (World emoji) @babsdhupia (sic).”

Earlier, she honored the birth anniversary of her father-in-law, Bishan Singh Bedi, by posting heartwarming memories of her children, Mehr and Guriq, with their late grandfather. She captioned it, “In our hearts forever… #happybirthdaydad…. #bishansinghbedi.”