Varun Dhawan - Anushka Sharma turn ambassadors for Skill India
Actors Varun Dhawan and Anushka Sharma, through their much awaited film ‘Sui Dhaaga - Made in India’, are promoting Indian entrepreneurs and skilled workforces. Especially homegrown artisans, craftspeople and weavers who have been making the country proud across the globe. In their upcoming film which focuses on entrepreneurship, Dhawan plays a tailor named Mauji, while Sharma will be seen as his wife and embroiderer Mamta. Innocent yet ambitious, the film showcases their journey towards making a name for themselves.
What's interesting is that the Sui Dhaaga pair have been signed on to promote and endorse the Skill India Mission, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. As the film highlights the untapped potential of India’s talented craftsmen and skilled workers at the grass root level and the challenges, issues faced by them, both Varun and Anushka have partnered with Skill India. The duo will dedicate time to promote India’s skilled talent and their fine work, by engaging with artists from different parts of the country.
Speaking about this association, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas and Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, stated, “Varun Dhawan and Anushka Sharma, through this unique film Sui Dhaaga - Made in India, are bringing to focus the incredible skills and talent of our homegrown artisan and craftsmen community. It is really heartening to see actors like them doing a film that has such a significant social message. India is one of the youngest countries in the world; and it is a matter of great pride for us to see such dedicated and passionate skilled youth with entrepreneurial skills in our country who are bringing name and fame to the nation with their work.”
“I wish this endorsement by both actors encourages and influences the youth to take up skill training and earn a better livelihood for themselves and help us in creating the New India envisioned by Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi,” he further added.
Led by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Skill India aims to standardise vocational training — both new-age and traditional skills —, helps in creation of latest infrastructure, ensures industry partnerships to extend technology support to make the youth more employable and assists in creating opportunities of employment for the youth of our country. This has led to more than 1 crore youth joining the Skill India Mission every year and transforming their lives through better livelihood.
Speaking about the association, Dhawan said, “Prime Minister Modi has displayed incredible vision and genuine foresight in aiming to organise, skill, train and give financial support and backing to our craftsmen, artisans and similar workmen. We are proud to be promoting this campaign that we feel extremely close to, just like our movie Sui Dhaaga that celebrates self-reliance and entrepreneurship’’
Adds Sharma, “Skill India Campaign reflects the government’s determination to include and support the talented skilled force of the country. While making Sui Dhaaga, we came across so many stories of talented, skilled crafts people and artisans who don’t get a fair chance to showcase their talents.”
Bappa Morya Re | Lalbaugcha Raja - From the Pages of History
Think of Lalbaugcha Raja and what's the first thing that comes to your mind? Grandeur? Celebrities? Crowd? Well, Mumbai's very own 'King' had humble beginnings. Ever wondered what the initial idols looked like? Or how the mandal was formed? Read on to know all about one of Mumbai's renowned pandals - Lalbaugcha Raja.
The Mandal - which was then known as the Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal (Lalbaug) was set up in 1934 in a simple locality, which was then known as Peru Chawl. The chawl and nearby market was forced to shut in 1932 and the locals - mostly fishermen and vendors, vowed to get a Ganpati if their wish was fulfilled. As their vow was fulfilled, the locals formed a committee and in 1934, the first ever idol was welcomed! The ganpati became famous as the 'Market cha Raja' or 'Market cha Ganpati'. As more and more devotees began queueing up to make a wish or fulfil their vows, Navsacha Ganpati and Lalbaugcha Raja became popular names.
The Ganpati idol of Lalbaugcha Raja has been created and designed by the Kambli family of Mumbai since 1935. Earlier, the idol would change every year as per theme and backdrop. Every year, the Mandal would pick a unique theme, ranging from independence struggle to mythological stories & social issues. According to locals, the mandal played a key role during the freedom struggle. In 1949, they have even had a Mahatma Gandhi inspired idol.
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| All Archive Images - Credit: Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal |
However, post 1990, things changed. The overall set up became much simpler, with just a basic backdrop. The idol was seated on a king style throne. But, the idol features and pose would change every year (till 2007). Some felt it matched the name given by locals, which is - Lalbaug cha Raja (King of Lalbaug). As crowds began to swell, the space required for themes & decorations, also became a major problem (as the pandal lane is narrow, with very little space in and around). Hence, sticking to a standard idol was seen as a good option. Since 2007 (till now), all idols have had the same features and pose. However, since 2015, the latest addition has been a unique throne (prabhaval). Some of the recent ones include Owl in 2016 (Goddess Laxmi's Vahan), and a Kurma Avatar (Turtle) in 2017. However, the idol will not be seated on a throne this year (a breakaway from their two decade long tradition). Instead, virtual reality will depict the beauty of nature and environment.
First Look | A stunning amalgamation of tradition and technology! @LalbaugchaRaja 2018 - Virtual Reality depicts the beauty of nature & environment. The entire set has been designed, based on ‘Nature’ & ‘Wild Life’ as a theme! #GaneshChaturthi #LalbaugChaRaja #Mumbai pic.twitter.com/6BwKkvfFzx— Priya Adivarekar (@priyaadivarekar) September 11, 2018
75th year celebrations (2008) was a grand affair. The event got extensive coverage across various media platforms. For this special occasion, the Mandal invited famous art director Nitin Chandrakant Desai to design the backdrop and decor. Desai's royal touch turned out to be one of the biggest attractions during the festive season that year, with grand elephants (straight off the sets of Ashutosh Gowariker's Jodhaa Akbar) attracting massive attention. Since then, Desai has been designing the backdrop for the Mandal every year. Post 2015, he also started designing the throne.
Did you know? In 2011, the Kambli family became the first idol sculptors to patent the Lalbaug cha Raja idol design. As the demand for replicas went up and several other sculptors began copying the idol's style and features, Ratnakar Kambli (who currently heads Kambli arts) applied for a patent, making this the first ever case of patent application for an idol.
Over the years, while themes and idols have changed, one thing remains the same. The mandal, including locals, have always taken a step ahead when it comes to spreading awareness on social issues. Today, while the mandal does not have backdrops based on social activities, they organise events that help several major causes. Some of the prominent causes includes a dialysis centre, regular blood donation drives, computer training institutes with nominal fees, free IAS coaching among others.
No wonder they say - The King's empire is filled with love and support for everyone.
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Jackie Shroff to essay the role of Salman Khan's father in Bharat
With Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif already in the lead, it looks like the cast of Ali Abbas Zafar's directorial venture Bharat, keeps getting bigger. It is now confirmed that actor Jackie Shroff has joined the team, and will be seen essaying the role of Khan's father in the film.
Zafar confirmed that the Parinda actor has stepped in to play Khan's father in the period film.
Interestingly, Bharat depicts the eternal bond shared by a father and son, which was quite evident in the teaser released on Independence day last month. The film traces a journey of 60 years, and boasts of a strong ensemble cast including Disha Patani, Sunil Grover, Tabu among others.
Talking about Shroff joining the cast, director Zafar shares, "We met Jaggu da in London and discussed his dates and looks. I have wanted to work with him for a long time, as I feel he is the perfect amalgamation of a star and actor. I was very glad as Jackie sir instantly liked the story and agreed to do the film in just 20 minutes of narration."
There were also some images of Khan performing daredevil stunts on a motorbike, amidst a ring of fire in the circus set up, which further added to the excitement around this film. Interestingly, the actor will be seen sporting five different looks in the film, spanning 60 years. A crucial part of the film will showcase Khan in his late 20s, looking lean and younger. It is also said that the actor will recreate his avatar from the 90s hit 'Karan Arjun'.
Bharat marks Khan and Zafar's third collaboration together, after Sultan and Tiger Zinda Hai.
Being Mauji | Varun Dhawan's Transformation for Sui Dhaaga - Made in India
Versatile actors don't leave any stone unturned to get the nuances of their character right in a film. Varun Dhawan hasn't shied away from experimenting with his looks and personality while essaying a character - be it the bindass Raja in Judwaa 2 or demure Dan in October. In his next, titled Sui Dhaaga - Made in India, the actor will be seen playing the role of an innocent local tailor from the heartland of India, named Mauji. Ever since the first look of this film was released, Varun's transformation into a local simpleton was widely appreciated. The simplicity and authenticity of his character (from whatever one could see in the trailer) and the overall look has become a talking point among the audience and his fans.
So, we looked out for the inspiration behind this look. Costume designer Darshan Jalan, who has worked on Dhawan's look in the film, revealed the big secret behind his inspiration. No one knows that the tailor overseeing Dhawan’s prep and training for the film, Noor, is the real inspiration behind Mauji’s look!
Adds Jalan, “Mauji is from the lower middle class income strata. He is a simple person who works in the city as a help/peon at a sewing machine store. Regular people on the streets became an inspiration for us, like the Ittar perfume guy from the streets of Haridwar and particularly Noor, our in-house tailor who was also training Varun to perfect his art of stitching and tailoring." From a styling point of view, Jalan said that they ensured Varun’s look had nuances that only a tailor would come up with. He quips, "There are certain elements, such as zipper on the side of the pants, so that he could reduce the size of the flare to keep it from getting caught while cycling. Zipper on the trouser hem, so that the ends don't tear. I truly believe that these intricate details makes the audience see something new and adds to the authenticity of the character from a small town in India.”
Talking about his inspiration for the character, Dhawan adds, “Noor has been integral to Sui Dhaaga. He was my trainer for 3 months. He laid the foundation stone to my transformation for becoming Mauji. I’m indebted to him for teaching me the art of sui-dhaaga and making me a believable tailor on screen. And, I heard that his sense of dressing inspired my look in the film also." The actor further adds that everything in this film is about authenticity, and being real. "That’s what is making audiences love our trailer. I’m happy that my look has been well received and the credit goes to Darshan and obviously my teacher - Noor, who has left his impression over my character,” said Dhawan.
Yash Raj Films' Sui Dhaaga - Made in India, highlights the journey of finding love and respect through self-reliance, VD is paired opposite Anushka Sharma, who plays an embroiderer in the film. The duo have been paired together for the first time, and if the reactions are anything to go by, the audience is clearly loving their sweet chemistry (anyone else hooked on to Chaav Laga already?)
The film also marks the collaboration of National Award winning producer - director combo Maneesh Sharma and Sharat Katariya, after Dum Laga Ke Haisha, which earned fine accolades from all corners. The makers aim to promote the film as a special salute to the inherent entrepreneurial spirit of local artisans and Indian youth.
What are your thoughts on Varun Dhawan's transformation for this film?
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First Look | Sidharth Malhotra and Parineeti Chopra become Bihar's Jabariya Jodi
It is a known fact that both Sidharth Malhotra and Parineeti Chopra are currently busy with their next, an upcoming film based in Bihar, centred around a surprise wedding, titled 'Jabariya Jodi'. The cast took to their social media to reveal the first look of the film, ahead of their filming schedule, which has kickstarted this week. The vibrant posters feature Malhotra as Abhay and Chopra as Babli, clearly lost in each other's eyes.
Malhotra and Chopra took to their respective social media accounts to reveal the first look, referring to as Abhay and Babli as an 'Anokhi Jodi'. This would be the duo's second outing after their 2014 romantic comedy - Hasee Toh Phasee, which was well appreciated by the audience.
Jabariya Jodi promises to a funny take on groom abductions in Bihar went on floors recently in Lucknow. The cast and crew faced a tough time managing the shoot, owing to the heavy rains. Due to flooding roads, the team had to spend four to five hours, traveling from the hotel to the shooting location. While the hotel was located in central Lucknow, the shoot for the film took place in and around the outskirts of the city. Despite the troubles, the cast and crew shot and completed the shoot for the day, spending hours just to reach the shooting location.
Surprise Party Sune ho ? ...yeh surprise shaadi hai ! Excited to announce my next film #JabariyaJodi with @parineetichopra @ektaravikapoor @RuchikaaKapoor @ShaileshRSingh @KarmaMediaEnt @balajimotionpic pic.twitter.com/LAvhMqgTjn— Sidharth Malhotra (@S1dharthM) August 11, 2018
Jabariya Jodi promises to a funny take on groom abductions in Bihar went on floors recently in Lucknow. The cast and crew faced a tough time managing the shoot, owing to the heavy rains. Due to flooding roads, the team had to spend four to five hours, traveling from the hotel to the shooting location. While the hotel was located in central Lucknow, the shoot for the film took place in and around the outskirts of the city. Despite the troubles, the cast and crew shot and completed the shoot for the day, spending hours just to reach the shooting location.
— Parineeti Chopra (@ParineetiChopra) August 20, 2018
Apart from the duo, the film also stars Aparshakti Khurrana (as Chopra's friend), Sanjay Mishra as her father, Neeraj Sood as her father's friend, Gopal Dutt as an inspector, Javed Jaffrey as Malhotra's father and Chandan Roy Sanyal as his friend. According to the makers, the film promises intriguing performances, along with the leading duo.
Produced by Ekta Kapoor under the banner of Balaji Motion Pictures and Shailesh Singh's Karma Media Net, Jabariya Jodi directed by Prashant Singh is slated to release next year.
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From Pokhran to Parmanu - The Story Behind India's Superpower Moment
"Today, I remember the hot day of 1998 at Pokhran: 53C. When most of the world was sleeping; India's nuclear era emerged." These are the words of India's Missile Man, and one of the biggest faces behind a landmark event - Dr. A.P. J Abdul Kalam. In a tweet sent out on May 11, 2015 (on his now de-activated official Twitter account), Dr. Kalam - who at the time of the event served as the DRDO [Defence Research and Development Organisation] chief, recalled the memories of what could be one of India's biggest superpower moment in the 90s: Pokhran-II [Operation Shakti-98].
On a sultry afternoon in 1998, the then Prime Minister - Atal Bihari Vajpayee, announced that a historic nuclear test was conducted at a test site in Pokhran, a small city in the Jaisalmer district (Rajasthan). While addressing the nation, he confirmed that around 15:45 pm, India had conducted three underground nuclear tests at Pokhran. He added, "These were contained explosions like in the experiment conducted in May 1974. I warmly congratulate the scientists and engineers who have carried out the successful tests. Thank you very much indeed." The tests and Prime Minister's subsequent announcement left the world stunned, especially since the entire mission was conducted with utmost secrecy.
Needless to say, the news spread like wild fire and soon, the story was covered by Indian and International media outlets, with local newspapers headlining the event as a huge success for the country. The entire mission also highlighted the technological and nuclear capabilities of our country, in addition to strengthening the security. Impeccable strategy, detailed research and planning; a lot went behind the success of Pokhran-II. It is said that scientists from DRDO would go undercover, every time they visited Pokhran. They would also work at night, in order to ensure that the satellites are unable to capture any ongoing activity [and thus, successfully maintain secrecy around the mission, especially from the CIA]. It also said that only a handful of people were part of the discussions and process. Even the then Defence Minister - George Fernandes, was unaware about the meetings and conversations, that would take place between the Prime Minister and those involved in the mission.
Apart from several key aspects, what made this event important was the fact that it changed the perception of India on a global level. The Pokhran test made the world sit up and take notice of our nation, with some countries even raising eyebrows and questioning the 'secret' mission. However, it was marked as an event that would carve the path for India to join the 'big league of nations'. It won't be wrong to say that the combined efforts of the Government and leading scientists made it a real success.
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| Image Source: India Today |
What's important to note is the fact that after the historic test, it was announced that India would never be the first to use nuclear weapons against other countries. Unless, nuclear weapons are used against India, in which case, the country would certainly retaliate. This theory helped establish India's military, diplomatic and political policy in the international arena. While the test led to major negative reactions from the U.S, subsequent dialogues and meetings led to the foundation of the nuclear deal in 2008, almost a decade later. In his book "How India sees the World", former Foreign Secretary Shyam Sharan had stated that over the years, India's relationship with the West and U.S has crystallised into a mutually beneficial and substantive relationship. Two decades since that day, India is now a member of leading global non-proliferation regimes and is still in the running for NSG membership. The Pokhran-II nuclear test launch was a major turning point for India, making it an event to remember, even today.
20 years later, it was great to see actor John Abraham's production venture - Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran, highlight the forgotten story behind one of modern India's most important milestone. It brought back memories of the day, that turned the tables for India on a global level. For his film, Abraham chose May 25 as the release date, which was just a few days apart from the original Pokhran-II test launch date. The film went on to gross more than 91 cr worldwide, and was declared - 'Hit'. A wonderful story of determination, Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran - starring Abraham, Diana Penty among others, is one film that you cannot miss! And, what better than re-living this historic moment on the Indian Independence day this year?
If you missed the film in theatres [or would like to re-watch it], mark your calendars! Watch the world television premiere of Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran on August 15, 2018 at 12 noon, only on Zee Cinema. Highly recommended by all of us at Team Dancebee!
Have you seen the film?
What are your thoughts / messages for India's 20-year-old superpower moment?
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Have you seen the film?
What are your thoughts / messages for India's 20-year-old superpower moment?
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Batti Gul Meter Chalu Trailer | Shree Narayan Singh's Social Drama starring Shahid Kapoor is Hard Hitting and Impressive
The trailer of Shree Narayan Singh's much anticipated social drama - Batti Gul Meter Chalu was finally launched earlier today. Starring Shahid Kapoor, Shraddha Kapoor, Yami Gautam and Divyendu Sharma in the lead; the film is a social drama based in Northern India. The main plot focuses on electricity woes and theft, faced by the common man in the country.
Batti Gul Meter Chalu is based in Uttarakhand, where the locals face power cut and electricity theft almost everyday. The three friends [played by Shahid, Shraddha and Divyendu] make merry and have fun, until things take a crucial turn and change their lives forever. Kapoor is seen playing a lawyer, whose life is all hunky dory [one can also see some shades of corruption in the initial stage of his character], until things go awry in his friend's life, thanks to a huge electricity bill slapped on the latter's face. Unable to make ends meet or find a solution, the friend [Sharma] commits suicide, and that is when Kapoor decides to take matters in his own hands, in order to teach the authorities a lesson. While the film largely focuses on a social issue, it has some light hearted moments and a good dose of entertainment as well.
We felt the trailer is hard hitting, and manages to impress with every frame. It pretty much presents the main crux of the film, and creates curiosity. The characters look fresh. One could see a pattern set by colours in the trailer, ranging from myriad colours to monochrome tones towards the end. We like the cinematography, which brings the scenic locales of Uttarakhand to life. From whatever we saw during the 3 min long trailer, it was evident that Kapoor is all set to impress with yet another brilliant performance. Yet again, the actor is seen sporting a fresh look, with a different personality and new dialect. We see him showcase an impressive range of emotions in a short span, which speaks volumes about his fabulous calibre as an actor. Needless to say, we are sure the actor will deliver a memorable performance, and impress us with his act. Shraddha plays the feisty Lalita, while Yami would be seen as a lawyer in the film. Both make a mark with their respective characters. Divyendu's pivotal character is something to watch out for, and the actor stands out with his act as well!
Helmed by Singh [whose last film - Toilet: Ek Prem Katha was a smash hit of 2017], Batti Gul Meter Chalu promises to create an impact with a strong message, without being too preachy, thanks to some light heartedness in the form of dance numbers and humour. The screenplay and dialogues have been written by Sidharth - Garima, while the film is based on 'Roshni' written by Vipul Rawal [who had earlier written the Akshay Kumar starrer Rustom]. Anu Malik has been roped in to compose the music of this film, making it a comeback of sorts for the 'Shahid - Anu' combo after a long time. The film has been largely shot in Uttarakhand. BGMC also brings the 'Haider' jodi of Shahid and Shraddha together after four years.
— Priya Adivarekar (@priyaadivarekar) August 10, 2018
After a few initial hurdles during the early stage of production, the film got rolling as soon as Bhushan Kumar's T-Series stepped in to support and release the film. With the trailer crossing several thousand views every minute and the title trending on social media, the film has managed to create a good buzz and excitement. Batti Gul Meter Chalu is scheduled to release on September 21, 2018. Well, September looks 'power'ful already!
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Sonakshi Sinha adds a Punjabi Twist to Helen's Mera Naam Chin Chin Chu for Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi
It looks like Sonakshi Sinha is truly one 'Happy' girl. The actress, who stars in the sequel to 2016's semi-hit 'Happy Bhag Jayegi', is cooking up a fun concoction of Punjabi meets China town in a special track from the film. And guess what? She has lent her voice for the song too!
China and it's various aspects play a crucial role in the sequel - Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi. With a distinctly oriental flavour attached to the adventures of it's crazy and happy characters, the film features many Chinese elements such as it's language, culture, clothing, locales and even characters based in the country. Hence, the makers decided to look back at one of the most unforgettable Bollywood dance numbers, inspired by Chinese elements. However, that's not without adding their own fun twist. Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi will feature the iconic ' Mera Naam Chin Chin Chu', originally shot on Helen and sung by Geeta Dutt for the 1958 hit - Howrah Bridge.
The recreated version includes Punjabi lyrics and a more pumped up melody, blended together with popular lyrics from the original song. The track has been recreated by Sohail Sen, with lyrics and rap by Mudassar Aziz [who has also directed the film]. Jassie Gill and Sinha, who play lead roles in the film, have sung the male and female parts respectively. The song was launched across social media platforms earlier today. It features Sinha sporting a rather cute hairdo, dancing around a club, grooving to some crazy steps, along with other cast members - including Gill, Jimmy Sheirgill, Piyush Mishra among others. All this, while trying to save her life from some local goons!
China and it's various aspects play a crucial role in the sequel - Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi. With a distinctly oriental flavour attached to the adventures of it's crazy and happy characters, the film features many Chinese elements such as it's language, culture, clothing, locales and even characters based in the country. Hence, the makers decided to look back at one of the most unforgettable Bollywood dance numbers, inspired by Chinese elements. However, that's not without adding their own fun twist. Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi will feature the iconic ' Mera Naam Chin Chin Chu', originally shot on Helen and sung by Geeta Dutt for the 1958 hit - Howrah Bridge.
The recreated version includes Punjabi lyrics and a more pumped up melody, blended together with popular lyrics from the original song. The track has been recreated by Sohail Sen, with lyrics and rap by Mudassar Aziz [who has also directed the film]. Jassie Gill and Sinha, who play lead roles in the film, have sung the male and female parts respectively. The song was launched across social media platforms earlier today. It features Sinha sporting a rather cute hairdo, dancing around a club, grooving to some crazy steps, along with other cast members - including Gill, Jimmy Sheirgill, Piyush Mishra among others. All this, while trying to save her life from some local goons!
"It is indeed a privilege to dance on a song featuring Helen Aunty. She is a class apart. So, I cannot even think of copying her. All I did was enjoy myself to one of the peppiest songs from the golden era. I love how Mudassar & Sohail Sen have added Punjabi tadka to the song, thus making it a very happy go lucky track,’ stated Sinha, who plays the lead protagonist - Happy, in the film.
Presented by Eros International and Aanand L Rai, A Colour Yellow Production produced by Aanand L Rai & Krishika Lulla, Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi releases on August 24, 2018.
What are your thoughts on this Punjabi meets Oriental version of 'Mera Naam Chin Chin Chu'?
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Shahid Kapoor to groove on Prabhudheva's hit dance track - Urvashi Urvashi
After playing 'Raja Rawal Ratan Singh' in the historical drama Padmaavat earlier this year, Shahid Kapoor is back with a bang. The actor, who is gearing up for the release of his next film Batti Gul Meter Chalu, has been busy burning the dance floor in suburban Mumbai studios for a special project. It is now confirmed that he is all set to feature in a very exciting single, that is being produced Bhushan Kumar of T-Series.
Remember the chartbuster - 'Urvashi Urvashi' featuring Prabhudheva, where the actor was seen showcasing some insane moves? An entire generation grew up listening to and dancing on this popular track. The song from Prabhudheva - Nagma's Tamil film Kadhalan [also released in 1994 as 'Humse hai Muqabala' in Hindi] is all set to be recreated with a twist. And this time, the audience will be treated to some kickass moves by Kapoor. The actor has already stepped into the shoes of dance icon Prabhudheva for the song, and was rigorously rehearsing with choreographer Sanjay Shetty's team since a few weeks. The video was shot by director Gifty in Mumbai this week.
Interestingly, the song has been recreated by popular music producer Yo Yo Honey Singh, and has been sung, written and composed by him. Actress Kiara Advani will feature alongside Kapoor in the track. "We’ve changed the lyrics, but the hook line remains the same. The song does not showcase a love story, but a new-age relationship between Shahid and Kiara. Even the choreography is contemporary. We are shooting on a club set in Film City. Earlier this week, we had also filmed some shots in a parking lot, in order to give the video an underground kind of a feel,” stated Shetty, adding that Shahid is super excited and looks like a complete rockstar.
The actress admits that although she was excited about featuring in the super hit number, she was nervous too. “I know the pressure one goes through when a classic song is recreated. There will be comparisons. This could be my ode to Prabhu sir. Also, we all know Shahid is a great dancer, I was nervous about matching up to his skills, but he was super fun to work with. We were in sync from the word go,” stated Kiara.
Ask Kumar about the recreation, and he quips, “The original number feat Prabhu Deva was an iconic chartbuster composed by AR Rahman. Yo Yo Honey Singh has recreated this version as per the taste of today's young generation. This track will the onscreen magic with Shahid Kapoor and Kiara Advani, and I am sure the next generation will have a have blast dancing to this song, when it releases.”
Contrary to reports that stated how this track would feature or be a part of Kapoor's upcoming film - Batti Gul Meter Chalu, a source close to the project confirmed that this isn't the case. The 'Urvashi' recreation would be a separate single, and has nothing to do with the film.
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Mahesh Babu's Maharshi Teaser Clocks One Million Views in Less Than a Day
Last night, fans of Telugu superstar Mahesh Babu created a frenzy on social media with a trend to celebrate the actor's birthday. While trend continued to hold fort with more than 4M tweets, the title and teaser of his upcoming film too created strong buzz. The actor took to his social media account last night and surprised his fans by revealing the first look of his next - Maharshi. Needless to say, the tag quickly moved up to the number One spot in less than a few minutes on Twitter.
While the trends continued, and his first look went on to create maximum excitement on social media, the digital teaser has clocked more than One million views in less than a day. It is also trending on YouTube at the number 1 spot. The actor is seen sporting a casual avatar in the teaser. One look at the teaser, and it is difficult to say that Mahesh actually celebrates his 43rd birthday today. This would be his 25th film, making it his silver jubilee project. Fans have been referring to Maharshi as 'SSMB 25', which translates to Superstar Mahesh Babu's 25th film.
Helmed by Vamshi Paidipally, Maharshi will see Mahesh Babu play Rishi, and his character looks like a boy-next-door in the teaser. His look is quite different from the one sported in his last film - Bharat Ane Nenu, where the actor played the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. The film, which released in April earlier this year, was a major hit.
First Look | On his birthday, actor #MaheshBabu gives us a glimpse of his 25th film — #Maharshi!— Priya Adivarekar (@priyaadivarekar) August 8, 2018
Happy Birthday, @urstrulyMahesh! Here’s to an incredible year. #HBDSuperstarMAHESH pic.twitter.com/DryQ6jx6eg
While the craze for Maharshi continues, it is said that the actor is ringing in his birthday in Goa with his family. However, his fans left no stone unturned to ensure that they mark this day with grand celebrations. Some of his fan clubs on social media, based across the country [from Mumbai to Jamshedpur and Jharkhand] were seen celebrating the day by cutting a cake and showing off Maharshi's first look. The actor has surely amassed a strong fan base across the globe, over the years. He is also among the few chosen popular artists from India, whose wax statue will be unveiled at the Madame Tussauds in London very soon.
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| Glimpses of celebrations by fans across India |
The team has already shot major portions of the film in Dehradun and Uttarakhand. Maharshi will feature Pooja Hegde as the female lead opposite Mahesh Babu, and also stars Allari Naresh. Produced by the Sri Venkateswara Creations, Vyjayanthi Movies and PVP Cinema, Maharshi is scheduled to release on April 5, 2019.
Here's wishing Tollywood's favourite superstar - Mahesh Babu, a very Happy Birthday!
Are you excited to watch Mahesh Babu's next?
