Birthday Special | 5 reasons to love Varun Dhawan
He made a sensational debut with KJo's larger than life college saga - Student of the Year. But, in less than six years, this talented actor has shown that he is not just here to portray regular 'chocolate boy' roles. Be it opting for an unusual love story in the form of October, acing the dual avatars of Raja and Prem in Judwaa 2, doing a revenge drama like Badlapur; actor Varun Dhawan has shut down all the naysayers and proved his mettle as a talented actor with every film. With a 100% successful ratio at the BO and his fan base rising to the next level by the minute, Dhawan has become Bollywood's favourite young superstar. From playing a rich student - Rohan, to essaying a coming of age character like Dan, this energetic star has come a long way. As the versatile actor turns 31 today, we take a look at 5 reasons why everybody loves Varun!
Choice of films - Time and again, Varun has proved that he takes his job as an actor very seriously. His choice of films in a short span of six years speaks volumes about this. Instead of playing it safe and sticking to the same kind of roles, Varun took to experimenting and we must say, he did a fine job. Be it the fun loving Seenu or 'DDLJ ke scene pe rone wala' Humpty, we love the way Varun surprises us with his characters. His recent critically acclaimed film - October, where he won hearts and accolades alike for his splendid performance as Dan is proof. And with films like Kalank, Rannbhoomi among others in his kitty, we are excited to see him win more hearts already.
Being Humble - Admit it! Varun Dhawan has a huge fan following. His fan base isn't just stuck to a particular age group. From kids, youngsters to even nana-nanis; everybody loves VD. Teenage girls can't stop gushing over his charm. And well, we have seen it with our eyes on multiple occasions. But instead of throwing air and maintaining distance, Varun obliges all his fans with autographs, selfies, photographs and listens to all their stories quite patiently. He loves interacting with his fans, be it during city tours for film promotions or through the #AskVarun Q&A sessions on Twitter.
Dancer Extraordinaire - We have a soft corner for people who can dance well and Varun Dhawan is hands down one of the best dancers in Bollywood today. His energy, impeccable footwork and flexible moves are a delight to watch. One look at him dancing in ABCD 2 or shaking a leg on 'Chalti hai kya 9 se 12' and you will know what we are talking about!
Sartorial Choices - For someone who is a regular at film and fashion events, we are a fan of Varun's personal style statement. Relaxed and easy going; we love the way Varun keeps it casual and yet, makes several heads turn with his sartorial choices. You will always see Varun flaunt funky pair of kicks with denims and a smart jacket (and his signature smile). But, we are also a fan of his formal red carpet looks, where he always manages to get a thumbs up in stylish tuxedos. We also loved the way he rocked the runway during the LFW W/F 2014 finale for Manish Malhotra!
Family Boy - "My family means everything to me," a statement by Varun, given in one of our previous interviews, that truly touched our (and the readers) heart. Varun is a Daddy's boy and the perfect family man. On days when he isn't working round the clock or hanging out with friends, Varun loves spending time with his family over film conversations or better, watching multiple international films, back - to - back. Although he recently shifted to his swanky new bachelor pad, the actor loves hanging out with his family, whenever he is on a break. He enjoys working with his father, and the duo recently created magic with Judwaa 2.
Happy Birthday to a charming actor with abundant energy, and powerhouse of talent!
We love you, VD.
We love you, VD.
Love,
The Dancebee
65th National Film Awards - Legendary Actors Late Sridevi, Vinod Khanna Win Awards Posthumously | Full Winners List
The 65th National Film Awards 2017 were announced earlier today. Veteran Hindi film actor - Late Vinod Khanna, was posthumously awarded the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his contribution to Indian Cinema. Late Actress Sridevi won the Best Actress award posthumously, for her flawless performance in the 2017 hit - Mom. Some of the other prominent winners in various categories for this year include film maker S.S Rajamouli's ‘Baahubali - The Conclusion’ in the Best Popular Film providing Wholesome Entertainment category, Marathi film ‘Dhappa’ in the Nargis Dutt Award For Best Feature Film On National Integration, Nagraj Manjule for Best Direction in the Non Feature Film Category. Actor Pankaj Tripathi got the Special Mention for his performance in the film Newton. Amit.V.Masurkar's critically acclaimed film also bagged the Best Hindi Feature Film award. A.R Rahman was awarded the Best Music Direction award for the movie ‘Kaatru Veliyidai’, making him the only composer to win six National awards.
Complete List of 65th National Film Award Winners:
Dadasaheb Phalke Award - Late Vinod Khanna
Best Actress: Late Sridevi for ‘Mom’
Best Actor: Riddhi Sen for ‘Nagar Kirtan’
Best Director: Jayaraj for ‘Bhayanakam’
Best Film: Village Rockstars (Assamese)
Best Supporting Actor (Female): Divya Dutta - Irda
Best Supporting Actor (Male): Fahad Fazil - Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum
Best Choreography: Ganesh Acharya, 'Gori Tu Lath Maar' - Toilet Ek Prem Katha
Best Original Screenplay: Sajeev Pazhoor - Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum
Best Adapted Screenplay: Jayaraj - Bhayanakam
Best Special Effects: Baahubali 2: The Conclusion
Special Jury Award: Nagar Kirtan (Bengali)
Best Lyrics: Muthurathinam
Best Music Direction: AR Rahman - Katru Veliyidayi
Best Make-up Artist: Ram Rajak - Nagar Kirtan
Best Costume: Gobinda Mandal - Nagar Kirtan
Best Production Design: Santosh Rajan - Take Off
Best Editing: Rima Das - Village Rockstar
Best Sound Design: Walking With The Wind
Best Audiography (Location Sound): Mallika Das - Village Rockstar
Best Location Sound Recording: Mallika Das - Village Rockstar
Best Cinematography: Nikhil S Parveen - Bhayanakam
Best Female Playback Singer: Sashaa Tirupati, Song - Vaan from Kaatru Veliyidayi
Best Male Playback Singer: K.J Yesudas, Song - Poy Maranja Kalam from Viswasapoorvam Mansoor
Best Child Artist: Anita Das - Village Rockstar
Special Jury Award: A Very Old Man With Enormous Wings
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| A still from the film 'Mhorkya' |
Best Animated Film: The Fish Curry and Tokri: The Basket
Best Film on Environmental Conservation: Irada
Best Film on Environmental Conservation: Irada
Best Feature Film on National Integration: Dhappa (Marathi)
Best Debut Film of a Director: Pampally - Sinjar
Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment: ‘Baahubali 2: The Conclusion’
Best Children's Film: 'Mhorkya'
Best Regional Films Special Mention
Marathi - Mhorkya
Malayalam - Take Off
Best Regional Films
Hindi - Newton
Ladakhi - Walking With The Wind
Jasari - Sinjar
Tulu - Paddayi
Marathi - Kachcha Limboo
Malayalam - Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum
Kannada - Hebbettu Ramakka
Bengali - Mayurakshi
Assamese - Ishu
Telugu - Ghazi
Oriya - Hello Arsi
Gujarati - Dhh
#HealthFirst | Fitness Tips By Celebrities, Experts and Enthusiasts
What's that one health tip that your favourite celebrity, fitness expert, or just a regular enthusiast swears by? As part of our Health Week celebrations (on account of World Health Day), we kickstarted a special campaign on Google+ titled - #HealthFirst
This initiative focuses on spreading awareness about good health and busting myths, misconceptions. Here, we focus on overall wellbeing and focus on mental, physical health on the whole. A big thank you to all the amazing, inspiring individuals, who took time out and contributed to this video with their tips and insights! This wouldn't have been possible without you.
Here's to living a happy, beautiful and healthy life!
Love,
The Dancebee
Deepika Padukone, Ranbir Kapoor to Walk for Mijwan at Designer Manish Malhotra's Fashion Showcase
It's that time of the year again, where the biggest names in films, fashion and business come together for the annual fundraiser fashion show hosted by the Mijwan Welfare Society. Designer Manish Malhotra is all set to put up a spectacular fashion show case - ‘The Walk Of Mijwan', showcasing the exquisite craft of Chikankari by the women of Mijwan, fashioned into contemporary silhouettes by Malhotra in his signature style. This is the 9th annual fundraiser for Mijwan in support of the movement started by Late Kaifi Azmi in 1993.
The show was originally scheduled to take place on April 9. However, it was rescheduled, and changes had to be accommodated as the showstoppers weren't too well. While Ranbir was reportedly down with Typhoid, DP has been nursing a back problem. The show will now take place on April 19 this week.
Ranbir Kapoor, Goodwill Ambassador of MWS since 2014, will be seen walking the ramp along with Deepika Padukone. This marks his return to the Mijwan ramp after four years. While confirming the news, Namrata Goyal said, "This will also be the first time that Deepika Padukone walks the ramp for the Mijwan Fashion show and we are so excited to have her support us." While talking about the cause, Ranbir stated, “We, the young people of India, need to turn our attention towards rural India and focus on empowering the girl child. My sister Riddhima and I were raised as equals and I want every girl and boy to be treated equally. To my young friends, I say “Be the Change you wish to see in the world. You can do it, and your time starts now.”
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| Designer Manish Malhotra at the Mijwan Fashion Showcase 2017 with show stoppers Shah Rukh Khan and Anushka Sharma |
Adds Deepika, "I have walked the ramp many times before, but this is truly a fashion show with a difference because Manish Malhotra bridges the urban - rural divide by taking the traditional craft of chikankari and fashioning it into contemporary silhouettes in his signature style. Mijwan Welfare Society's work over the last 9 years has been instrumental in giving the women and girl children of Mijwan the confidence to negotiate a better future for themselves. Congratulations to Shabanaji and Namrata for carrying forward Kaifi Saheb’s dream and inspiring us to become active participants in the process of change.”
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| Ranbir Kapoor at the Mijwan showcase in 2014 |
During the showcase, two girls from Mijwan - Lalima Chauhan and Renu, who have studied at the Kaifi Azmi School and learned embroidery at the Centre (and are now teaching there), will also talk about their respective success stories. Today, they are proud to fund their further education themselves from the money they earn at the Centre. Chauhan says, "I am grateful to MWS for giving me the wings to fly and dream big. I have learned that girls and boys are equal. All that is needed is an opportunity. Thank you Mijwan for giving me that opportunity.”
The biggest change witnessed in Mijwan and surrounding areas has been the complete eradication of Child Marriage - a practice that was rampant till a few years ago. An emotional Shabana Azmi says, “My father once wrote 'Koi toh sood chukaye, Koi toh zimma ley uss inquilab ka jo aaj tak udhaar sa hai.' Through MWS we are trying to repay that debt.”
Are you excited to watch Ranbir and Deepika reunite on the ramp at Mijwan? Leave your comments below or join the conversation at
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan & Pharrell Williams - Celebrity Style Files
While one is a global HipHop sensation, the other is one of India's favourite B-town superstar. One creates ripples in the world of Rap, while the other leaves us stunned, every time she makes an appearance on the red carpet. Well, if you haven't guessed this one already, we are talking about Pharrell Williams and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. The rocking duo have graced the cover of Vogue India this month, and needless to say, this photo shoot is 'lit'.
The cover story spread features Aishwarya in a gorgeous avatar, sporting some über chic looks, with the perfect attitude and panache! Ditto Pharrell, who is seen in some colourful outfits, most of which come from his latest collaboration with Adidas Originals - Hu Holi. Both the artists have been styled by Anaita Adajania Shroff, while the stunning images have been shot by Greg Swales.
As part of the cover story, the former Miss World talks about a variety of topics - ranging from life as a mother, her upcoming film - Fanney Khan, her thoughts on social media and more. "I spend all my time with Aaradhya, and I have one nanny, by choice. I read comments saying, “Ah, she must have an army of help” and I understand the perception, but I choose this way, which means life is always busy. I respect homemakers for the endless work they do," she adds, while talking about her busy schedule. The actress also confessed that she isn't completely averse to social media as such. "I do recognise its value, and if I feel the need I’ll embrace it—transparently and honestly," stated Aishwarya.
Pharrell, on the other side, talks about why music that comes with a message isn't a bad idea after all. "It doesn’t need to but it’s good that it does. I think everything we do should have some sort of message or intention, or else it’s just wasted energy,” he said.
If the excerpts are anything to go by, the cover story does look like an insightful conversation, which can make for a good read! Also, full props to the folks behind this photoshoot, as they got together two global icons, who are hitmakers in their own league! Our favourite image? This one, featuring Aish in a striking Balmain jacket and Tee, paired with Zara denims, while Pharrell keeps it cool in Adidas Originals. Love the vibe!
What's your favourite look sported by Aishwarya and Pharrell in this photoshoot?
Leave a comment below or join the conversation on
The Summer Bride | Sonakshi Sinha - Celebrity Style Files
If the scorching heat is a lot to handle, and you are missing the long weekend already, then it’s time to take a break and chill along the beach side. If that’s too much of a luxury, still you do have an option - take sometime out to admire Sonakshi Sinha’s latest bridal couture themed photoshoot, entirely shot on a beach.
With blue sky, calm sea and the golden sand serving as the perfect backdrop, Sonakshi is seen posing for Khush magazine’s latest cover. The gorgeous actress has pulled off some stunning, sleek looks, which have fast become our favourite already.
For someone who started off with dabbling in fashion designing, it is no wonder that Sona has got an eye for all things stylish.
Join the conversation on
Beyond Cinema | 11 Poems Penned by Ayushmann Khurrana That Will Melt Your Heart
It is a well known fact that Ayushmann Khurrana is one super human being. Apart from acting, the talent powerhouse is also an ace singer, writer, host among others. If you follow him on social media, his profound tweets and poems are hard to miss. While he does share verses from popular poems and writings, we can't stop raving about the fact that the actor has been sharing his own verses too. And needless to say, we are fans of his work!
In a recent interview with Hindustan Times, Khurrana confessed that he plans on publishing a book of his own poems very soon. He said, “The biggest influence has been my mother (Poonam Khurrana), who has a Master’s degree in Hindi. My Hindi is good because of her! It was because of her that there’d be literature books in vernacular languages at my home while I was growing up. My father (P. Khurrana) was interested in poetry and ghazals, so that’s where my interest stemmed from.” While we wait for Khurrana to publish his book, here's a collection of our favourite verses, penned by the super talented artist!
“Milta hai kabhi aise jaise barso ki jaan pehchaan ho.— Ayushmann Khurrana (@ayushmannk) March 24, 2018
Aur phir milta hai kabhi aise jaise bilkul hee anjaan ho.”
-Ayushmann
“Pehle dost baney,— Ayushmann Khurrana (@ayushmannk) March 20, 2018
Dost se jaan baney,
Jaan se anjaan baney,
Aur bas zindagi aagey badh gayi.”
-Ayushmann
Tumhari almaari ki Khushbu.. pic.twitter.com/EkLqLfDC1G— Ayushmann Khurrana (@ayushmannk) March 15, 2018
“बिना सोचे लिख देता हूँ मैं.— Ayushmann Khurrana (@ayushmannk) February 9, 2018
मुफ़्त तारीफ़ पा लेता हूँ मैं.
ज़्यादा सोच कर गर लिखूँ
तो गणित के सवाल सा दिखूँ.”
-आयुष्मान
“Neend laapata hai. Tera pyaar thoda sakht hai yaa shayad mera takiya thoda naram.”— Ayushmann Khurrana (@ayushmannk) March 4, 2018
-Ayushmann
Ek azeem soorat jo gayi,— Ayushmann Khurrana (@ayushmannk) February 27, 2018
Sheher ki sabhi sooratein saamne aa gayi.
“Tumse milne ke baad jo mere dil ke alfaaz keh rahe hote hain.— Ayushmann Khurrana (@ayushmannk) February 8, 2018
Woh mere likhe hue alfaazon se bhi gehre hote hain.”
-Ayushmann
The #DancebeeAnniversary Special | A Letter From Us, To You
Sometimes, the blessings showered upon us by the ‘almighty’ and an individual’s destiny work in unison to create special plans for you. I truly believe 'Diary of a Dancebee' was one such plan, that became a part of my life on this very day. This 'plan' gave me the chance to learn and grow as an individual. It gave me the opportunity to interact with thousands of people from across the globe, who continue to make me smile with their appreciation, warmth and kindness even today. It gave me a platform to express my thoughts and more importantly, it gave me the chance to - ‘Do what I love, and love what I do’. Our website - Diary of a Dancebee has come a long way, and we are all set to enter a brand new year. From being a simple, personal blog to becoming one of India's most loved entertainment & lifestyle website and ultimately, winning awards for all the hard work. Today, as I look back at all those memories of spending sleepless nights over designing the blog, editing posts and working on new concepts, I feel proud. Proud to give my ideas a chance. Proud to have a strong voice, and of course, proud to be a girl who dared to dream.
Big hug to my fabulous team - the core group, contributors, guest writers, photographers and videographers we have worked with over the years. All the faces behind numerous projects, shoots, interviews, and brands we have worked with. My wonderful family, who stood by me and this blog through the ups and downs. You. Yes, all of you are the lifeline of this baby! You helped make ‘Diary of a Dancebee’ what it is today. Lots of love and gratitude to all the brands, agencies, companies and people we have collaborated / worked with. Nothing worth having comes easy, but all of you made it possible with your support. Reserving the best for last! Nothing would have been possible without your love and blessings, dear readers and followers! It means a lot to know that there are people who appreciate your work and your posts can help change a life somewhere or bring a smile on someone's face. Thank you for all the letters, tweets and posts, even on days when we faced hurdles. Your love has made us stronger!
Big hug to my fabulous team - the core group, contributors, guest writers, photographers and videographers we have worked with over the years. All the faces behind numerous projects, shoots, interviews, and brands we have worked with. My wonderful family, who stood by me and this blog through the ups and downs. You. Yes, all of you are the lifeline of this baby! You helped make ‘Diary of a Dancebee’ what it is today. Lots of love and gratitude to all the brands, agencies, companies and people we have collaborated / worked with. Nothing worth having comes easy, but all of you made it possible with your support. Reserving the best for last! Nothing would have been possible without your love and blessings, dear readers and followers! It means a lot to know that there are people who appreciate your work and your posts can help change a life somewhere or bring a smile on someone's face. Thank you for all the letters, tweets and posts, even on days when we faced hurdles. Your love has made us stronger!
And I quote Steve Jobs - "Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do.”
Thank you for believing in us and our work. I fall in love with my job everyday and this wouldn't have been possible without you. Here's to many more amazing stories, learning new things and chasing dreams with Diary of a Dancebee!
Love,
Priya Adivarekar
Raid | Film Review
Director Raj Kumar Gupta who is known for his films like Aamir and No One Killed Jessica is back after a hiatus with Raid – an Ajay Devgn, Ileana Dcruz and Saurabh Shukla starrer. The story and dialogues have been penned by Ritesh shah, while Tanishk Bagchi and Amit Trivedi have scored the music.
Raid is based on a famous Income Tax raid of the 80s. In this film, we see the raids being led by Deputy Commissioner Amay Patnaik (Ajay Devgn) - an honest, dedicated officer, who is tipped off about crores of rupees in cash and valuables stashed in Sitagarh -- the ‘White House’ of Lucknow, which belongs to a goon-cum-politician - Rameshwar 'Rajaji' Singh (Saurabh Shukla). Going against Rameshwar Singh is a huge step that can lead to Patnaik losing his job, dignity, and even his wife (Ileana Dcruz). But, Patnaik believes in his instinct and raids the palace that belongs to Singh. The raids begin, however, the department is unable to find anything. That's when the much needed twist arrives, as the team gets a lead on where the actual money and assets are hidden. Will the income tax department be successful in extracting all the black money out? Will Singh put his best shot to stop this raid? Who is that one person from Singh's family who has tipped off Amay Patnaik? As usual (and as we always say) - You gotta watch the film to find out!
Bagchi and Trivedi's music is average. Tanishk has recreated two of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan's well known songs. However, they are not really needed in the flow of this film. While the film keeps you on the edge of your seat, one feels that the second half tends to get a little dragged. However, if you look at the overall presentation, we like the pace and flow of the film.
Shukla's portrayal of Rajaji might just be the next iconic role for him (after the well known 'Kalu Mama' from Satya). His performance is packed with multiple layers, ranging from comedy to rage and manipulation. Overall, he delivers a powerful act. His command in several major scenes is epic. Illeana D’Cruz as Malini - the dutiful wife of Patnaik, is good. One can see her looking beautiful in a saree again after Barfi and Baadshaaho. However, she has less scope in the film, and limited screen presence. The supporting cast is very impressive; especially Amit Sial as Lallan - a corrupt I-T officer, Sulagna Panigrahi and Sadanand Verma who play pivotal characters from Rameshwar Singh's family. And, one cannot ignore the veteran 85-year-old Pushpa Joshi, who plays Saurabh Shukla's mother in the film. For a debut performance, Joshi has great energy and always lightens up the screen.
However, the real 'show stealer' is none other than the lead protagonist! Ajay Devgn as Amay Patnaik is flawless. His intense look, one liners and verbal duals with Singh (Shukla) steal the show. The two actors play against one other with brilliant understanding. As Patnaik, he shows great courage in handling the authorities, including the Prime Minister of India (as shown in the film). He also ensures the safety of his team, while carrying out the risky raid. Devgn effortlessly speaks with his eyes in major portions of the film. The actor has always been known for his intense, powerful performances and Raid is no exception. Fans of Ajay Devgn will like his persona in the film.
Raid is very relevant in India, especially during the times that we live in. We wish and hope there are more 'Amay Patnaiks' in the department and they never let down the people of India. We need them today more than ever, at a time when corrupted politicians are still making money and continue to rule their thrones for a long time.
