Category: Entertainment

The makers of actor and director Dhanush’s heartwarming entertainer ‘Idli Kadai’ have issued a warning to those involved in promoting or distributing pirated copies of the film, which has made a robust opening in theatres.

### Strict Action Against Piracy

In a post on its X timeline, Dawn Pictures, one of the production houses behind the film, stated, “Any leaked or pirated content of #IdliKadai will be removed instantly without #Warning. Strict legal action will be taken against those promoting or distributing pirated copies.”

The production house also encouraged audiences to report any pirated content or spoilers immediately, emphasizing, “Protect cinema. Report pirated content or spoilers immediately — your support is the industry’s strongest defense.” They provided links for audiences to facilitate this reporting.

### Film Highlights

Featuring Dhanush, Arun Vijay, and Nithya Menen in lead roles, ‘Idli Kadai’ has created significant excitement among fans and film enthusiasts. Dhanush, at a prior event, discussed the film’s pivotal message, which focuses on the importance of staying connected to one’s roots.

He elaborated, “What is your identity? Studying well, getting a good degree, and securing a good job offers a respectable position in society. However, our identity lies in our ancestral roots. The lives our father, grandfather, great-grandfathers, and ancestors lived shouldn’t just dissipate in the air. It should remain a memory in the minds of future generations.”

He added, “Just like a bird, which returns to its nest after searching for food, we too, irrespective of the direction we head in for a livelihood, should not forget the path we came from and the life we lived. This is the essence of ‘Idli Kadai.’”

### Release Details

For those unaware, Dawn Pictures initially scheduled the film to hit screens worldwide on April 10 this year, but later postponed the release to October 1.

Arun Vijay portrays the antagonist, while Shalini Pandey plays a key role alongside Sathyaraj. ‘Idli Kadai’, directed by Dhanush himself, is co-produced by Dhanush’s Wunderbar Films and Dawn Pictures, featuring cinematography by Kiran Koushik and music by G V Prakash.

Popular OTT platform Prime Video has announced an exciting new series titled “The Pyramid Scheme”. Backed by The Viral Fever (TVF), the show is created by Shreyansh Pandey and directed by Ashish Shukla and Shreyansh Pandey.

A Unique Take on Ambition

“The Pyramid Scheme” offers an entertaining and thought-provoking look at ambition and its consequences. The series chronicles the journey of Goldy, a restless young man whose desire to get rich through a multi-level marketing business leads him into a chaotic spiral, jeopardizing his future as well as the love and trust of his close-knit joint family.

Star-Studded Cast

The series features an impressive ensemble cast, including:

• Paramvir Cheema
• Ranvir Shorey
• Shekhar Suman
• Aanjjan Srivastav
• Smita Bansal
• Alfia Jafry

Sneak Peek and Premiere

The creators have shared a couple of stills from “The Pyramid Scheme”, announcing the series with the caption, “dreams, schemes & for everything in between (Clapper emoji) #ThePyramidSchemeOnPrime, Now Filming.” The series is set to premiere on Prime Video in 2026, though further details regarding the crew remain under wraps for now.

Ranvir Shorey’s Insights

Meanwhile, Ranvir Shorey recently appeared in another web series, “Bindiya Ke Bahubali”. In an exclusive interaction, he shared what makes “The Pyramid Scheme” stand out from other similar shows. He stated, “I think the biggest USP of this is that, you are right, this genre is made a lot, and it has also been successful, but it has a little sensitivity, it has a little sensitive approach to that thing.”

When questioned about the role of humor in making the show unique, he replied, “I also think that it is inherent in the story, in the situations, the humor is not forced, but the atmosphere there is like that. You know, they talk, they talk; everything has an extra, everyone has the knowledge to give. You understand, right? So, that is part and parcel of the package.”

Actress-turned-author Twinkle Khanna has shared her favorite clothing choice for a busy day.

As her outfit of the day, Twinkle opted for a stunning green saree with a dark green border and a matching blouse. Her traditional look was accessorized with large earrings, a red bindi, subtle makeup, and a sleek low bun.

In her latest social media update, Twinkle revealed that she attended three events in the same ensemble—starting from a lunch, moving to the Durga Puja Pandal, and concluding at the Tweak Summit, which is associated with her YouTube platform.

The ‘Mela’ actress shared photos from each event on her Instagram handle, expressing her love for sarees.

“A sari goes from lunch to the pandal to The Tweak Summit—proof that a Chanderi multitasks better than most of us on caffeine. What’s your go-to outfit on a busy day?” Twinkle wrote.

In response, a netizen commented, “Sarees are the most versatile—they can be experimented with jackets, trench coats, corsets, and even worn with sneakers. The best part is that however you drape it, whatever the occasion, one can carry it off with confidence, elegance, and sexiness all at the same time. In India, a saree is definitely an emotion.”

Another user remarked, “Just the fact that you wore one outfit to three occasions is absolutely incredible.”

An Instagram user added, “Always the saree! It’s the hyphen and complete comprehension—versatile across the sober-sexy-sensible spectrum: Chanderi, Linen, Chamois (for winter).”

Twinkle was also spotted posing with her ‘Two Much With Kajol and Twinkle’ co-host, Kajol, during the Durga Puja celebration at the Mumbai Sarbojanin Durga pandal. She was joined by Kajol’s sister Tanishaa Mukerji and cousin Rani Mukerji.

Netflix is set to release its highly anticipated animated series “Kurukshetra,” which brings to life the timeless saga of the Mahabharata.

A Unique Perspective
The narrative unfolds through the eyes of 18 warriors, each facing moral dilemmas, pivotal decisions, and destinies that altered the course of history. Central to the story is a profound truth articulated by Lord Krishna: “Iss yuddh mein na koi mitra hai, na koi shatru” (In this war, there are no friends or enemies).

This animated series delves into fractured familial ties and tough choices while vividly capturing the emotional journeys within India’s greatest epic.

Exciting Trailer Release
The creators shared an enchanting trailer on social media, stating, “Dharm aur adharm ke iss mahayudh se itihaas gawah hai, aur ab aap bhi (sword and fire emoji) Watch Kurukshetra, out 10 October, only on Netflix.”

Social Media Buzz
The preview has generated excitement among viewers. One Instagram user commented, “That’s what I am waiting for love to see our animation industry revive once again after the success of ‘mahaavatar narshimha.’”

Another user asked, “So who are the voice actors?!??? They sound familiar but surprisingly fresh too.”

A third user expressed, “My expectations on this series have skyrocketed hope at least the action sequences in this series match the expectations.”

Exploring Inner Conflicts
“Kurukshetra” highlights the inner conflicts, personal rivalries, and the emotional toll of India’s greatest dharmayuddh (war of righteousness), which led family members to clash against each other.

From Arjuna’s agonizing choices to Draupadi’s fierce quest for justice, Duryodhan’s unquenchable thirst for power, and Bhishma Pitamah’s profound wisdom, “Kurukshetra” captures these raw emotions and timeless dilemmas that resonate through generations.

A Collaborative Effort
Written and directed by Ujaan Ganguly, the series features characters brought to life by the talented team at Hitech Animation. The visuals are complemented by lyrics from the legendary poet Gulzar, adding layers of depth to the narrative.

Conceived and created by Anu Sikka, “Kurukshetra” is produced under the banner of Tipping Point by Alok Jain, Anu Sikka, and Ajit Andhare. It is all set to premiere on October 10, exclusively on Netflix.

Actress Shalini Pandey, known for her natural screen presence and effortless dialogue delivery, recently shared insights into her approach to acting.

Comfort in Character

During an exclusive interaction, the ‘Maharaj’ actress expressed her comfort level in front of the camera. When asked whether she views her talent as innate or developed through effort, Shalini revealed that she feels safest when embodying different characters.

“I honestly don’t know if it’s natural talent or not, but I always wanted to become an actor. I feel very comfortable in front of the camera, especially when I’m playing another character—not as Shalini, but when I’m given lines and have to become someone else. That’s when I feel my most comfortable and safest. Maybe that’s why it feels natural, because acting has always been my safe space,” she explained.

Career Turning Point

Shalini made a powerful debut in the blockbuster “Arjun Reddy,” alongside Vijay Deverakonda, which marked a significant turning point in her career. Reflecting on the film’s success, she noted that “Arjun Reddy” not only brought her into the limelight but also boosted her confidence as an actor to explore diverse roles.

“When ‘Arjun Reddy’ was being made, we were all new. It was our first film, and we just wanted to do good work together. Once it was released and received so much love, more than feeling pressure, it gave me validation as an actor. I had been thinking for so long that I wanted to become an actor, and suddenly I was getting the love for it. That validation was very important. At the time, I was so new that I didn’t even know how to take pressure. I was simply enjoying everything and hoping that the work I do in the future also continues to receive the same love. That was my focus during ‘Arjun Reddy’ and after it,” she shared.

Bollywood star Kareena Kapoor Khan recently shared a nostalgic throwback picture from the 42nd Filmfare Awards on her social media account. In the image, she was seen seated in the front row alongside actor Akshaye Khanna.

In the picture, both Kareena and Akshaye wore extremely simple clothes, akin to what one might wear for a casual dinner outing. Kareena captioned the image, which was originally posted by Filmfare, “When we wore our own polo necks and jackets and sat comfortably and watched actors receive their black lady. #comfortalwaysyar.”

Her words highlighted the effortless and relatable fashion of that era, devoid of the pressure to impress with expensive stylists or designer outfits. Many fans resonated with Kareena’s reflection, agreeing that the simplicity of the past felt more charming and approachable. She subtly emphasized that those days were about comfort and individuality, rather than curated appearances and brand endorsements.

Kareena’s candid post evoked nostalgia, reminding audiences of a time when Bollywood stars seemed closer to their fans in both style and spirit. For those unfamiliar, Kareena and Akshaye starred together in the hit movie Hulchul, released in 2003.

On the professional front, Kareena Kapoor Khan is set to collaborate with acclaimed filmmaker Meghna Gulzar in her upcoming movie, “Daayra.” This project has already generated excitement among cinephiles, marking the union of one of Bollywood’s most celebrated directors with an actress known for her versatility.

Kareena’s involvement in Daayra adds to her already diverse lineup of projects. She recently shared behind-the-scenes photos from the film on her social media, showcasing candid moments with the caption, “This is what it’s all about. Work more on.” These pictures offered fans a glimpse into her professional world, striking a balance between dedication and gratitude.

Actors Vidisha Srivastava and Rohitashv Gour, the beloved duo from Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai, marked the festival of Navratri with a night brimming with dance, vibrant colours, and festive spirit.

A Night of Celebration

For Rohitashv, portraying Manmohan Tiwari, playing garba with his favourite Anita Bhabi felt as if “Diwali and Holi were rolled into one night.” He expressed, “Tiwari ji ka ek sapna tha ki Anita Bhabi ke saath Garba khelne ka mauka mile. Aur iss saal woh sapna poora ho gaya! (laughs).” Dancing with Vidisha felt exceptionally joyful as he recalled, “On-screen, I am always trying to win her heart, but off-screen, dancing with her on Mumbai’s Garba stage was a completely different thrill. The beats, the orchestra rhythm, the crowd—it was all so infectious. Interacting with our fans, seeing their excitement, and dancing alongside them made the night incredibly special.”

He described how every twirl, clap, and cheer made him feel part of something magical. “Before the event, my daughters even taught me a few Garba steps, and using them on such a grand stage added a personal touch of joy. Dancing amidst thousands of people in vibrant outfits, celebrating Navratri together, is an experience I will always treasure.”

The celebration not only connected him with the fans but also built anticipation for their upcoming show, Gharwali Pedwali, making the night feel even more special.

Vidisha’s Heartfelt Experience

Sharing her joy, Vidisha Srivastava expressed, “Navratri holds a very special place in my heart and is celebrated with great devotion in my family. Every year, we follow the 9-day colour tradition and offer prayers to Maa Durga.”

This year, she took the opportunity to celebrate Mumbai’s Garba night alongside Rohitashv ji at Kora Kendra – Borivali. “Dancing and grooving to Garba with him and matching steps with the lively crowd was such a delightful experience,” she shared.

Vidisha mentioned that this was her second time at Mumbai’s famous Garba night, and it felt even grander and more vibrant than before. “From dancing together to greeting and taking pictures, every moment was filled with joy and togetherness. It felt so nice to bring home blessings for our new show Gharwali Pedwali. Family feels like it’s getting bigger and bigger.”

Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai airs on &TV.

Punjabi superstar Neeru Bajwa is currently enveloped in nostalgia following the release of the song “Nai Jana.” This beautiful track, which features the actress, was unveiled recently and has taken her back to many cherished memories.

About the Song

“Nai Jana” is a vibrant Punjabi folk track from the upcoming movie “Madhaniyan,” sung by Mannat Noor with music composed by Money Aujla. The song brings a fresh twist to a beloved folk tune while preserving its traditional charm.

In “Madhaniyan,” “Nai Jana” is showcased during a lively wedding sequence, where Neeru Bajwa graces the screen with her stunning presence and infectious energy.

Neeru Bajwa Shares Her Thoughts

Reflecting on the song, Neeru Bajwa stated, “’Nai Jana’ took me back to so many memories of hearing this song at weddings while growing up. Performing it in ‘Madhaniyan’ felt so authentic and fun, because this song is all about teasing, love, and laughter. I can’t wait for audiences to feel the same joy we felt while filming it.”

A Blend of Nostalgia and Freshness

The track seamlessly merges nostalgia with a modern sound, capturing the excitement of Punjabi weddings while resonating with today’s listeners.

Singer Mannat Noor expressed, “This song is pure nostalgia. Everyone in Punjab knows ‘Nai Jana’; it’s part of our weddings and our culture. When I recorded it, my focus was on keeping that essence intact but also bringing a freshness for today’s listeners.”

Appealing Across Generations

With Neeru Bajwa’s captivating performance, Mannat Noor’s enchanting vocals, and Money Aujla’s contemporary yet traditional music, “Nai Jana” is set to resonate with audiences of all ages. For the older generation, it rekindles cherished memories of weddings, while for younger listeners, it offers a stylish and energetic reimagining that is sure to be a favorite addition to their playlists.

“Madhaniyan” is directed and written by Nav Bajwa and also stars the acclaimed actor Dev Kharoud.

“Nai Jana” is now available on Times Music’s YouTube channel and across all music streaming platforms.

National Award-winning actress Shabana Azmi and her “Broken Images” team recently took a short hiatus in the Bay Area, California, to unwind from their busy tour schedule.

Time for a Break

On Instagram, Shabana shared moments from her downtime and reflected on the challenges faced by actors as the troupe prepared for a five-hour flight to Raleigh, managing a three-hour time difference.

Shabana captioned her post: “#Danville Bay Area taking a well-deserved break from the hectic tour of our play #Broken Images.” The team, which includes Pearl, Shabana’s niece Farzi Rizvi, Craig, Prarthana, and Jayesh, made the most of their time together before heading to their next performance.

She added: “With my lovely team because of whom we have been able to pull this off so far #Pearl, my niece @farzi_rizvi, #Craig, yours truly, #Prarthana and #Jayesh. Off tmrw on a 5 hr flight to Raleigh with a 3 hr time difference and ready for the show! Whoever thought being an actor is easy.”

About “Broken Images”

Written by the late Girish Karnad in 2004 and directed by Alyque Padamsee, “Broken Images” tells the story of two sisters—one an intellectually brilliant paraplegic and the other a struggling writer—who live together but are emotionally and linguistically worlds apart, navigating both English and Hindi.

Their relationship is complex; as they respond to life together and separately, they constantly reshape their perceptions of each other and their surroundings.

In our modern world, the influence of electronic images is pervasive. From every aspect of daily life, images bombard us, questioning, accusing, and pleading, threatening the very essence of our private existence.

Shabana Azmi’s Legacy

Shabana Azmi’s illustrious career includes over 160 films, predominantly in independent and neorealist parallel cinema, while also extending to mainstream films and numerous international projects. Recognized as one of India’s most acclaimed actresses, Azmi is celebrated for her portrayals of unique, often unconventional female characters across various genres.

Actress Wamiqa Gabbi recently celebrated her 32nd birthday, giving fans a glimpse into her serene and joyous day through a heartfelt gratitude note on social media.

Wamiqa was spotted in a beautiful setting, seated alongside a large cake and colorful balloons. She shared a moment of wish-making before cutting her cake, embodying the essence of a special celebration amidst nature.

Expressing her thankfulness, Wamiqa wrote, “Special birthday in so many ways (white heart emoji) Grateful to the Universe & big thank you to everyone who have shown so much faith in me and still do (Folded hands emoji) Cannot wait to show you all everything I have been working on. So many surprises coming your way next year (teary eyed emoji) (sic).”

She also shared a touching sentiment: “Achhe logon se hi swarg hota hai aur meri zindagi toh bhari padi hai achhe logon se (Heaven is made of good people, and my life is filled with good people) (White heart emoji) Thank you everyone (Flower emoji) #PremiqaIsOverwhelmed (White heart emoji).”

The actress received warm birthday wishes from her colleagues in the film industry. Alaya F commented, “Happiest birthday to youuuuuu.” Siddhant Chaturvedi posted, “Happy birthday,” along with a red heart emoji. Tovino Thomas added, “Happy birthday Wamiqa,” with another red heart emoji, while Karishma Tanna simply wrote, “Happy birthday” accompanied by a red heart emoji.

Moreover, Wamiqa’s ‘Goodachari 2’ co-star Adivi Sesh extended his wishes with a heartfelt belated post. He expressed, “Many many happy returns of the day dear @iWamiqaGabbi!! You’re a fantastic co-star and you’ve given so many layers of gravitas to your role. Happy Birthday to our Talented, Beautiful and Professional Lead Actress of #G2 #Goodachari2.” He concluded with, “p.s. forgive me for the late wishes,” complemented by a folded hands emoji.