Category: Entertainment

Veteran Bollywood superstar Sharmila Tagore celebrated her birthday with plenty of love and warmth from family and friends.

In a series of pictures shared by her daughter and actress Soha Ali Khan on social media, Sharmila is seen enjoying a delightful time with Soha, star actor son Saif Ali Khan, and various friends and family members. Soha captioned the post, “My amma on her birthday – missed you, Apa @sabapataudi.” She noted that she missed her elder sister Saba during the celebration.

Actress Sara Ali Khan, Sharmila Tagore’s granddaughter, also made it a point to be part of her grandmother’s special day. Earlier, Sara had extended birthday wishes to Sharmila with a lovely picture on her social media account. She wrote, “Happiest birthday to the Chanda and Suraj of our family (two hearts, love hands, and full moon face emojis). Love you beyond words, Badi Amma (red heart emoji) (sic).”

In videos shared by Soha, the birthday girl was spotted cutting her birthday cake. Interestingly, her daughter-in-law and Bollywood star Kareena Kapoor Khan was absent from the gathering.

However, earlier that day, Kareena posted a beautiful collection of pictures for her mother-in-law, Sharmila, on her birthday. She expressed her wishes by writing, “Happy birthday, dearest mother-in-law.” The first photo features Saif Ali Khan with Sharmila Tagore, who is seen holding her grandson Jeh. In the next image, Kareena is captured walking with Sharmila, with text overlay stating, “Always trying to follow in your footsteps.”

The final heartwarming picture depicts Sharmila playing with her grandson Jeh in a park. With a career spanning more than five decades, Sharmila Tagore has been a significant figure in the Bollywood industry. She made her debut with the popular film “Kashmir Ki Kali” opposite Shammi Kapoor and has starred in numerous hit movies, including “Amar Prem,” “Aradhana,” and “Chupke Chupke.”

The makers of director Kishore Kumar’s upcoming romantic comedy ‘Heartin’, featuring actors Madonna Sebastian, Sananth, and Emaya in the lead roles, have announced that Madonna has completed dubbing her portions for the film.

Production Update

The production house Trident Arts shared the news on its Instagram page, stating, “@madonnasebastianofficial wraps up her dubbing for #Heartin. Fun, Smiles & Full rom-com vibes loading. Written and Directed by @kishore_sathiyavel. A @rajeshmurugesanable Musical. @sananth__ @emayaing @mukes47 @barathvikramanks.”

Known for spotlighting fresh, young talent, R. Ravindran’s Trident Arts is producing this lively film directed by a debutant. Sources indicate that ‘Heartin’ promises to be a youthful and feel-good romantic comedy.

Cast Highlights

Sananth, recognized for his roles in ‘Mahaan’, ‘Petta’, and ‘Jil Jung Juk’, takes on the male lead. Madonna Sebastian and debutant Emaya T will play pivotal roles, with other renowned actors expected to feature in key characters.

Director’s Vision

Kishore Kumar, the director, previously mentioned, “’Heartin’ is a rom-com with an interesting balance of romance and humour. We are creating a film that will appeal to audiences of all kinds.” He also revealed that the film’s shoot is nearly 80% complete, with locations including Chennai, Jaipur, and Ooty.

Technical Team

The film benefits from a talented technical crew. Cinematography is led by Mukes, known for his work in the web series ‘Suzhal’ and the film ‘Kolaikaaran’. The music is composed by Rajesh Murugesan, celebrated for Malayalam hits like ‘Neram’, ‘Premam’, and ‘Gold’.

Editing is handled by Barath Vikraman, recognized for ‘Good Night’ and ‘Lover’, while art direction is by G. Durairaj, popular for ‘Garudan’ and ‘Ayothi’. Costume design is by Uthara Menon, who has previously worked on ‘Viduthalai 2’ and ‘Vendhu Thanindhathu Kaadu’.

Final Stages of Production

With a skilled ensemble of artistes and technicdigihunt, ‘Heartin’ is now in its final leg of production under the banner of Trident Arts, produced by R. Ravindran and directed by Kishore Kumar.

Ajay Devgn expressed that this year’s birthday feels particularly special as he fondly remembered legendary actor Dharmendra.

Taking to social media, Ajay shared a nostalgic throwback photo with the late star. In a heartfelt tribute, he wrote, “His birthday feels different this year… but the love and laughter Dharam paaji brought into our lives will stay forever.”

Kajol, Ajay’s wife and actress, also honored Dharmendra on social media by posting an old photo of herself hugging him. She reflected, “Remembering Dharmendra ji today…You will live in our hearts forever,” accompanied by a red heart emoji. Kajol had the chance to work alongside Dharmendra in the 1998 film “Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya,” directed by Sohail Khan, which also featured Salman Khan and Arbaaz Khan.

Salman Khan, who reportedly had a close relationship with Dharmendra, became emotional while reminiscing about the actor during the grand finale of “Bigg Boss 19.” With tears in his eyes, he mentioned, “Dharmendra passed away on the 24th of November, on my father Salim Khan’s 90th birthday.”

He described Dharmendra as “the He-Man of Bollywood, with an innocent face and the body of a He-Man, with a 60+ years of legacy.” Salman further revealed that Dharmendra’s birthday falls on December 8, the same day as his mother’s. He also shared how Dharmendra’s funeral was conducted with utmost dignity, stating, “I have seen two funerals being conducted with full dignity to date; one was of filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya’s mother, and the second was Dharamji’s.” He praised Dharmendra’s family, including Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, for their grace during the prayer meetings, saying, “It was such a beautiful moment to see so many people celebrate his life with so much love.”

Actress and singer Shruti Haasan, who has expressed that this is her favorite time of the year, recently shared a delightful video of herself setting up her black Christmas tree.

In her Instagram post, Shruti wrote, “It’s my favourite time of the year!!! I love putting up my black Christmas tree in the first week of December itself so I’m a little late this year! Thanks to Surekha and Vaishnavi, we had it all done in less than forty minutes. This year you added a lot more white to the tree and I’m loving it. Wishing you and yours a beautiful Christmas and an incredible year ahead. Love and peace to all!”

The versatile actress was also in the spotlight for her mesmerizing performance at the title announcement event for director S.S. Rajamouli’s upcoming project, ‘Varanasi.’ She recently shared how Oscar-winning music director M.M. Keeravani surprised her during a recording session.

On Instagram, she reflected, “It was a pleasure to sing for MM Keeravaani sir’s musical. What a powerful track… LET IT BANG, GLOBETROTTER.” She continued, “I was seated quietly listening to sir on the keys. He said he usually begins his sessions with the Vigneswara mantram before anything starts, so I assumed that’s what he was starting to play. Suddenly, I realised it was appa’s song … ! and that moment was super special. Thank you sir for your kindness and the love and warmth of the entire team that day. Can’t wait for you all to listen to the track.”

Just a few days later, Shruti shared a video of her performing her first independent single on her Instagram. She wrote, “I would have never shared this song if it wasn’t for the lovely evening I had performing Sanchari. We have the great fortune of performing for thousands but the silence before that applause is where the art meets the artist. When I went to record this epic track for ‘Varanasi’ / Globetrotter, @kaalabhairava7 said he loved your song ‘edge,’ and it meant the world to me as an independent musician – so here’s the real deal. Every time I have a great big flash of fortune, I will always remember where I began. This is the video I sent to @karanparikh27 during lockdown saying let’s make this – this was my first independent single. Thankful for the music and even more for the musicdigihunt!”

Sara Ali Khan recently extended heartfelt birthday wishes to her grandmother, the legendary Sharmila Tagore, whom she endearingly called the “Chanda and Suraj of the family.”

Warm Birthday Wishes on Social Media
Sharing glimpses from the birthday celebration, Sara took to her official Instagram account and expressed, “Happiest birthday to the Chanda and Suraj of our family ❤️ (two hearts, love hands, and full moon face emojis). Love you beyond words Badi Amma ❤️ (sic).”

According to Sara’s latest post, the birthday gathering was attended by family members including Saif Ali Khan and Soha Ali Khan. Alongside the joyous birthday cake and loved ones, a Christmas tree added a festive touch to the backdrop.

Kareena Kapoor’s Tribute
Earlier that day, Kareena Kapoor also shared a loving birthday message for her mother-in-law, Sharmila Tagore, on social media. She noted how she always aims to follow in her “amma” Sharmila Tagore’s footsteps. Kareena posted some cherished family photos featuring the veteran actress, captioning it, “Happy birthday dearest Mother in law.”

One of the main photos highlighted Saif smiling alongside his mother, Sharmila, who lovingly held little Jeh in her arms. Another image showcased Kareena walking with Sharmila, captioned, “Always trying to follow in your footsteps.” In a candid moment, Sharmila was seen playing with her grandson Jeh at a park.

Saba Pataudi’s Heartfelt Tribute
Sara’s aunt and Sharmila Tagore’s daughter, Saba Pataudi, also honored her mother with a touching tribute. Her post featured a collection of family photos with Saif, Kareena, Soha Ali Khan, and more members of the Pataudi family.

“Happy Birthday Ma! Diva to many, Mother to us. Moments and memories, Treasured so much! A journey of a lifetime, Growing up with you, Learning the ropes, And surviving each other too! With love and blessings, Wishing you the best of health, Happiest Birthday Ammu! Love you always and forever. Ayu baba… Happyyyy Birthday to u too!,” Saba’s heartfelt birthday wish read.

Actor R Madhavan took to social media to share a heartfelt birthday tribute for producer Vijay Moolan, whose production house is behind his much-anticipated film ‘G.D.N’. Madhavan expressed deep gratitude for Moolan’s unwavering trust in his abilities.

A Special Birthday Wish

Posting a picture with Moolan, Madhavan wrote, “Wish you the HAPPIEST BIRTHDAY EVERRRR, my dear brother. I’ve always been so grateful to have you in my life, but with every passing year, your importance and influence in my life has been greater than ever. I have seldom met anybody who has so much trust in my abilities… you see in me more than I can see in myself and forget I’m so grateful. God bless you and I pray that our closeness and adventurous journey continues forever. Love you, my man.”

The Anticipation of ‘G.D.N.’

Madhavan recently wrapped up the filming of the highly awaited biopic on renowned scientist and industrial pioneer Gopalaswamy Doraiswamy Naidu, widely recognized as G D Naidu. In November, he was busy shooting the final schedule of the film abroad, while the first look teaser was unveiled in October.

Teaser Highlights

The teaser features Madhavan in the role of Gopalaswamy Doraiswamy Naidu, diligently working in his workshop. Initially shown with a welding shield, he later reveals an aged, bold avatar adorned with spectacles, embodying the ‘Edison of India’.

Alongside the teaser on a photo-sharing platform, Madhavan shared, “The spirit of G.D.NAIDU is now officially unveiled. A story of unmatched vision, towering ambition, and unwavering resolve. We proudly present the First Look Teaser of G.D.N.”

About G.D.N.

The film chronicles the extraordinary life of Gopalaswamy Doraiswamy Naidu, a self-taught engineer, inventor, and industrialist from Coimbatore. He is celebrated for revolutionizing the Indian industry by creating the country’s first indigenous electric motor, alongside other inventions like petrol engines, ticket machines, and agricultural equipment.

Production Details

Directed by Krishnakumar Ramakumar, ‘G.D.N.’ is produced by Varghese Moolan Pictures in collaboration with Tricolour Films. The core cast includes Priyamani, Jayaram, and Yogi Babu in significant roles, among others.

Actress Krithi Shetty, a prominent figure in Tamil and Telugu cinema, believes that the film industry is not a “one size fits all” environment. According to her, the choice of working only eight hours or longer varies from person to person.

In an exclusive interview, Krithi Shetty discussed the ongoing debate surrounding the working hours in the film industry, particularly regarding some actresses insisting on shooting for only eight hours a day, while others are open to longer schedules.

Individual Preferences Matter

Krithi Shetty stated, “I think cinema has never been one size fits all. Every single person here is different. Everyone’s working process is different. No two people are the same. Obviously, no two actresses can be the same. Because I think actresses are a little more different in their process of living and a little more clear because they are so conscious of what they do. So I think it all depends on what works for you.”

Her Personal Stance

Using her own experiences as an example, she shared, “Personally, I can work 24 hours because I might have the energy to. I don’t have as many family responsibilities to take care of. I am willing to. I am a director’s actor. If the director requires me to work 13 hours, I am completely willing to. In fact, while shooting for this film, I was doing double shifts. One in Hyderabad and one here in Chennai. Right now, I am willing to work because I have the energy. But if someone doesn’t, I particularly don’t see it as a wrong thing.”

Importance of Communication

Krithi emphasized that working hours should not pose any issues if discussed upfront. “If the director and the producers know in advance that an actor is willing to work these long hours, then there is no issue. If not, they can look for another person. So, I think it depends on the individual. And it’s healthier if it’s discussed in prior.”

Bhojpuri star Pawan Singh has filed a police complaint after reportedly receiving threats from someone claiming to be a member of the Bishnoi gang.

The threats included warnings against sharing the stage with Salman Khan and demands for money, prompting authorities to launch an investigation. Pawan Singh has lodged two separate complaints with the Mumbai Police concerning extortion threats linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Both complaints are now with the Anti-Extortion Cell of the Mumbai Crime Branch.

Singh’s team approached the police to file a written complaint. Authorities have confirmed that they are investigating to track the source of the threats and ensure the actor’s safety.

The controversy arose shortly after Pawan Singh announced on Instagram that he would be sharing the stage with Salman Khan for the “Bigg Boss 19” finale. He wrote, “Bhaijaan ke saath Bigg Boss 19 ke Grand Finale mein humare saath judenge Powerstar Pawan Singh.” During the show, the Bhojpuri singer performed alongside Salman Khan and former contestant Neelam Giri.

Reports indicate that unknown individuals demanded money from Pawan Singh and sent threats using multiple phone numbers, with links traced from Bihar to Mumbai. Members of Singh’s team and those managing his work also received similar threatening messages.

Pawan Singh received a phone warning not to share the stage with Salman, with the caller allegedly threatening “serious consequences” if he proceeded with the scheduled performance.

This is not the first time the Bishnoi gang has targeted celebrities; earlier, they had warned comedian Kapil Sharma against sharing the stage with Salman Khan during his appearance on “The Kapil Sharma Show.”

Veteran actress Sharmila Tagore has shared her insights on her taste in adult literature, shedding light on her literary journey.

A Lifelong Passion for Reading

In an interview with Prasar Bharati, Sharmila fondly recounted her love for reading, which began at a young age. She revealed her affinity for adult books and classic literature, highlighting how these choices influenced her curiosity and intellectual development.

A Humorous School Incident

Sharmila reminisced about an amusing incident from her school days when she was “hauled up” for cheating. The teacher had assigned the students to write a modern poem, and Sharmila chose to copy one from a collection titled Adhunik Kavita Sankalan. When confronted, she owned up to her actions but defended herself by saying it was a famous poem by Rabindranath Tagore, arguing that everyone recognized it, which she believed demonstrated her good taste.

Her Literary Interests

Reflecting on her literary pursuits, Sharmila Tagore mentioned, “I was very fond of reading and I think I read a lot of adult books. I remember being hauled up in school for cheating because they had asked us to write, you know, modern poetry. So, I went home and found this Adhunik Kovita Shankolon, meaning a collection of modern poems.”

She continued, “So, I copied something from there and went to school. The teacher asked if I had written it, and I said yes. She gave me plenty of chances to confess, and I admitted I had copied it but insisted it was such a famous poem of Tagore that everyone knew it. So, I told the teacher, ‘Why are you penalizing me for God’s sake? At least I copied Tagore.’”

Sharmila added that at a young age, she was already reading works by literary giants like Tagore, Bumke, and Sarat Chandra, delving into the classics of Bengal while also exploring other genres.

A Legacy of Excellence

For those unfamiliar, Sharmila Tagore comes from a distinguished Bengali family and is a distant relative of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. She made her acting debut in Bengali cinema with Satyajit Ray’s Apur Sansar in 1959. Although she was born in Hyderabad, her father hailed from an aristocratic Bengali family, reflecting the rich artistic and intellectual heritage of Bengal.

On the occasion of his father Dharmendra’s birthday, Bobby Deol delivered a heartfelt tribute, celebrating the iconic actor’s life and lasting legacy.

Emotional Reflections

In his touching message, the actor from ‘Animal’ honored his father’s cinematic journey and the invaluable lessons imparted to their family. Bobby expressed profound love and admiration for Dharmendra, recalling the unwavering support he provided through smiles, tears, and challenges.

A Star’s Journey

Bobby emphasized his father’s career as a star who uplifted everyone around him, celebrating the pride he brought to their hometown, Punjab, as well as to the nation. Sharing a heartfelt image, he wrote in Hindi:

“Mere Pyaare Papa aur Hamare Pyaare Dharam, Aapki soch main yeh likh raha hoon. Duniya mein itna pyaar nahi jitna aapne hum sabhi ko diya. Har muskurahat, har tapakte aansoo mein saath nibhaya, Har mushkil mein haath badhaya. Us tarah jis tarah sirf hum sab ke Dharam kar sakte the.”

Bobby continued, “Aap star banne toh sabko saath leke haath thaam ke aage badhe, Kisi ka haath nahi chhoda. Aapke humare Punjab ke Dango ka, Sahnewal ka, Bharat ka jhanda garv se lehraya. He-Man ho aap sab ke, Lekin bachpan se hi aap mere hero ho. Aap hi se humne sapne dekhna seekha, Aap hi se humne atmvishwas karna seekha, Aapke sanskaar se hum Deol banne. Dil ho to aapke jaisa, Junoon ho to aapke jaisa, Pyaar karo to aapke jaisa, Insaan bano to aapke jaisa. Papa ho aap mere, Lekin Dharam ho aap hum sab ke. Proud to be yours. Happy Birthday, my precious Papa. Love you forever and always.”

Celebrations and Wishes

Social media was abuzz with birthday wishes for Dharmendra, pouring in from celebrities, fans, and the Deol family. Sunny Deol, along with his sons Karan and Rajveer, and other family members like Hema Malini and Esha Deol, shared heartfelt notes honoring the legendary actor on this special day.