Showing posts with label Hindi Films. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Hindi Films. Show all posts
Birthday Special | Thoughts and More by Shahid Kapoor
It's that time of the year, you guys! We are celebrating February 25 aka Shahid Kapoor day - as the man celebrates his birthday today. Almost every mid / late 90s kid grew up falling in love with his charm and some memorable performances in films like Ishq Vishk, Vivah. As years went by, he took things a notch higher and turned into Bollywood's 'King of Versatility'; changing one avatar after another and sweeping awards, honours and accolades for his incredible craft.
Be it Tommy Singh's rage, the angst of Kabir Singh or Sunny's street smart personality - he brought to life some of the most complex characters. Easily, the best that the previous decade has seen. Today, as Shahid Kapoor turns 42 (wait, what?) - we look back at some of the most inspiring thoughts and musings shared by the actor, straight from our interview archives.
We truly hope 2023 turns out to be yet another milestone year in Shahid's career! Well, the year has definitely begun on a sweet note with the success of 'Farzi'. And now, we are super excited for his upcoming action film.
Tabaah Ho Gaye - Kalank | Dance Cover
The name 'Saroj Khan' is eponymous to 'Bollywood Dance'. An entire generation grew up, while performing on her popular dance numbers, and matching steps with her impeccable choreography. Our beloved 'Masterji' (as most would often call her) passed away on July 3, 2020; leaving behind a rich legacy, that shall be remembered for years to come.
As a heartfelt tribute, I wanted to create a dance cover on her last song as a choreographer - the track which features her favourite muse and the dancing legend, Madhuri Dixit Nene. This one's for my favourite Bollywood Jodi, which has delivered some of the greatest dancing hits! Part of my 'Lockdown Edition' dance series. Hope you like it.
The Dancebee
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.”
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.
Are you excited to watch Sidharth and Parineeti in an all new 'desi' avatar?
Join the conversation on
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.
Who else is super excited to watch this video already?
Join the conversation and let us know your thoughts on
Raabta | Film Review
For his debut venture as a director, Dinesh Vijan helms a film which brings together passionate lovers, who have been crossing various hurdles and challenges of life. With a tagline that goes - Everything is connected, you know you are in for something interesting. The film stays true to the tagline, with a twist of reincarnation. Shiv (Sushant Singh Rajput) and Saira (Kriti Sanon) cross paths and instantly feel a connection with each other. It’s all hunky dory, until someone from the past ruins their happiness.
The film begins with our Punjabi boy flying to Europe for work. It is here Shiv meets the love of his life - Saira, who makes chocolates. Shiv is a lady killer, while Saira is a single, young, vibrant baker, who often gets some weird dreams in the night. As Shiv and Saira go on to happily romance each other, a twist comes in the form of Zak Merchant (Jim Sarbh), who opens the door to a parallel universe. He is the answer to all the questions that arise in the first half. However, just when you think it’s all going well, the film becomes a little too predictable in the second half. To know where life leads Shiv, Saira and Zak next, you gotta watch the film!
Sushant Singh Rajput has once again proved that he can make you believe in any character he plays on screen. There is surely no iota of similarity in both the characters he has portrayed in the film. His performance is clearly one of the biggest strengths of this film. Kriti Sanon had a tough time putting her act together, especially when compared to Rajput and Sarbh. After an excellent performance in Neerja, Sarbh brings in the dark and intense feel to the film with his performance. He has a unique dialogue delivery, which helped his character to come across as strong and impactful. He is intense and mysterious, thus essaying an obsessive lover bang on. Both Rajput and Sanon display crackling chemistry, which definitely stands out. The cameo by Rajkumar Rao (as an old character) and Deepika Padukone’s guest appearance in the title track were both refreshing and interesting.
In the technical space, the film has good VFX and costumes. The make up is great. Music is interesting and the casting is on point. However, the biggest highlight here would the fabulous background score by Sachin-Jigar. It sets the mood right throughout the film.
Although, Raabta had all the elements of a successful commercial film, somewhere, we felt there was something amiss. You know, how despite having all the other products in place, one missing spice can ruin a dish? That’s exactly what goes wrong here. There is no soul or connect in the film. The storyline was lacklustre. A film like Raabta could have certainly done with a much stronger story and screenplay. It could have only taken the film a notch higher. More so, for the fabulous performances delivered by the cast, especially Rajput and Sarbh.
Verdict: If the storyline doesn't bother you much, go ahead & watch Raabta for the artists. Especially Sushant Singh Rajput, who shines as both a warrior and lover.
☆☆☆
For more updates, follow us on
I have always been a very practical and realistic person - Ayushmann Khurrana | Exclusive Interview
There is no doubt about the fact that Ayushmann Khurrana is one of the finest artists that we have in the industry today. Over the years, Khurrana has worked hard and proved his mettle not just as an actor, but also as a successful singer, composer, host, writer among others. Right from his debut in the award winning Vicky Donor, Delhi ka munda Khurrana has consistently raised the bar for himself. After earning accolades for his performance in Dum Laga Ke Haisha, and winning hearts with popular singles like Yahin hoon main and Ik Vaari, Khurrana is all set to wow the audience in the avatar of a writer - Abhimanyu Roy. As Meri Pyaari Bindu releases today, we catch up with Ayushmann Khurrana, who discusses films, family and life in an exclusive interview with Diary of a Dancebee. Excerpts from a candid chat:
You are seen playing a Bengali character in Meri Pyaari Bindu. What were the aspects or nuances that you picked up for this role?
I strongly believe that I am half Bengali! I have a Punjabi body with a Bengali soul (smiles). This time, when I went to Kolkata for Meri Pyaari Bindu, I discovered certain things about the city. First was Rabindra Sangeet. I heard some of the songs and have started liking it. I have also read many Bengali novels. Among them, Chokher Bali is my favourite. I have also noticed that in Kolkata two cities exist. The night life of Kolkata is very active. Park Street is so alive throughout the night. Then, there is North Kolkata, where one can see the old heritage buildings standing for hundreds of years. People over there don't want to change anything, as they want to preserve the heritage and culture.
How come you haven't gone behind the mic for this film?
I knew this from the beginning that I am not going to sing in this film. Here, the singer is Parineeti aka Bindu. Even in Dum Laga Ke Haisha, I haven't sung at all. There, I was a big Kumar Sanu fan, but never sang. Sometimes, I truly believe the singer should take a backseat, and the actor should come in the forefront.
I strongly believe that I am half Bengali! I have a Punjabi body with a Bengali soul
Tell us a little bit about your affair with the music.
My passion for music started off with pure, filmy songs. I remember the first Hindi film I watched on big screen was Tezaab. I used to keep chanting 'Mohini Mohini' for a long time. That was the time when we used to hire Colour TV and VCR to watch movies at home. Then, I watched Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak and Baazigar. Songs from these films impressed me. Later on, when I went to college, I had some western music influence as well. At home, all of us would listen to old hindi film music. In fact, my grandmother used to sing at the Gurdwara, so that influence was definitely there. Then, I listened to Bade Ghulam Ali Khan and Ghulam Mustafa. My range developed in a very broad way.
How have you dealt with the failures in your professional life?
I have always been a very practical and realistic person. I detach myself from a film after the release. Also, I know failure is the best teacher anyone could have. In the last five years, I have learnt a lot and all that has certainly helped me grow. Plus, I have worked in two National Award winning films -- Vicky Donor and Dum Laga Ke Haisha. So, that feels great!
Failure is the best teacher anyone could have
From Vicky Donor to Meri Pyaari Bindu, you have created your own space in the industry. How do you look at your journey so far?
I guess, you need to play in your own space within the industry. Do something which people are not expecting you to do. I am a commercial film hero, but my focus has always been on doing something different. Once, I remember Aditya Chopra telling me that an extension of my real life should come up on the screen. When you do different roles in your career, you should also feel the change within.
You are one of the few actors from the recent lot to have experienced fatherhood quite early. How do you take time out for the family, in between a hectic schedule?
Yes! Probably, also the youngest father in the industry (smiles). Well, I am definitely not strict or tough with my kids. I am hardly in the city. Earlier, I was not being able to give much time to them. However, now that my family has moved with me to Mumbai, I plan to spend more time with them.
Cinema | 5 Reasons to Watch Dear Zindagi
The headline may have left you wondering, "Didn't Dear Zindagi release last year already?" Well, it sure did. However, I know several folks who missed the chance to watch this acclaimed film on the big screen. But, guess what? The wait is finally over. The film is all set to air on the small screen this weekend, with a World Television Premiere scheduled on Sunday at 12 pm. For those who came in late, Gauri Shinde's directorial venture 'Dear Zindagi' stars Alia Bhatt and Shah Rukh Khan in the lead, and focuses on mental health as the core subject.
But, you may ask - Why should I spend my Sunday afternoon watching this film, instead of the good ol' drama show or match highlights? Well, we've got more reasons than one to prove why you must tune into Zee Cinema and watch Dear Zindagi this Sunday.
Alia - SRK Chemistry: In an industry where romantic on-screen pairs and characters rule the roost, we had SRK and Alia display excellent chemistry as a therapist (psychiatrist) - patient pair. Highlight of the film, of course, has got to be their counselling sessions. The ease and comfort with which they interact is fabulous. Their conversations look real and relatable, which makes it an interesting watch.
SRK in a different avatar: We have seen him steal our hearts as Raj Malhotra in DDLJ, and more recently, he taught us how 'Koi dhanda chota nahi hota' in Raees. Well, that's superstar Shah Rukh Khan for you - versatile as ever. While we have seen him essay several characters ranging from a lover boy to don, street side tapori to a heartbroken professor; his character in Dear Zindagi was a breakaway from everything he has done in the past. Khan plays the role a therapist for the very first time, and that too, with a twist. His character - Jehangir 'Jug' Khan has a unique approach for all his cases. What's it all about? You need to watch the film and find out.
Music: Most of us believe that the soundtrack of a film can make or break it. Fortunately, Dear Zindagi is packed with some refreshingly different and melodious songs. Amit Trivedi's compositions and Kausar Munir's soulful lyrics form a great melange, that is heartwarming, light and easy on the ear. Our favourites have got to be 'Love you Zindagi', sung by Jasleen Royal and of course, the recreated version of 'Ae Zindagi' sung by Arijit Singh. You can't help but fall in love with the OST, slowly and steadily.
Performances: One of the key highlights and strongest pro of this film has got to be the performances delivered by lead actors, and well, our reviewer too agreed. Alia's nuanced performance as the young cinematographer - Kaira, who fights against her inner emotional turmoil, earned her accolades from industry stalwarts. The actress took home top awards for her natural, balanced act. Khan's naturally flawless performance as therapist Jug strikes an instant connect. Minutes into his 'gyan filled session' and you will believe that indeed, this world is a beautiful place to live in.
The Takeaway: While Dear Zindagi does have its usual entertainment and filmy moments that stay with you, the biggest takeaway from this film has got to be the motivation to live, love and laugh. Today, we live a fast paced life, follow hectic routines and tire ourselves to no end, all in our quest to emerge successful and become the best. The crazy competition out there has got us stuck in a whirlwind, and the way out usually gets quite difficult. The result? We have forgotten to enjoy some of life's most simplest pleasures. Or like a friend of mine likes to call it - 'Theraav'. Enjoying a mango popsicle on a sunny day or watching the raindrops pitter-patter on the window pane with a cup of coffee in hand; we usually ignore these moments because everybody is in a rush to be 'somewhere'. In a bid to follow the herd, stick to routines or live upto societal pressures, most people lose their mental peace. Dear Zindagi explores this very concept in a beautiful way. It has the answers to a 20-something's inner turmoil, and also helps the audience discover a different side to life. A side that he / she may know about, but had to leave behind in order to join the rat race. It's about time we respect ourselves, enjoy the small joys of life and learn to live a little.
This Sunday, get your family together with a large tub of home-made popcorn (or maybe, some yummy lunch), tune in, sit back and relax. Watch the World Television Premiere - Dear Zindagi, on April 23 at 12 pm IST, only on Zee Cinema.
The Indian Cinema Treasure | Films to watch out for at Jio MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2016
The 18th edition of Jio MAMI Mumbai Film Festival with Star, has 170+ films selected from all over the world. While we discussed our international favourites in a special series, we have also got several Indian films taking centre stage. This year, they have been distributed largely into three categories: India Gold, India Story and Discovering India. Also, not to forget, the 'Marathi Talkies' section, which also includes some remarkable films.
Like last year, this year too, an Indian Film - Konkana Sen Sharma’s directorial debut ‘A Death in the Gunj’ opens the festival at Royal Opera House in Mumbai. With Indian Films are all set to entertain the audiences at MAMI, we help you pick some of the best on the list. Don’t miss out on our Indian films, that have been made with a lot of hard word, determination and dedication, by our desi filmmakers.
Lipstick Under My Burkha (India Gold)
Director: Alankrita Shrivastava
The film weaves together life of one burqa-clad college girl, a young beautician, a mother of three and a 55-year-old widow who rediscovers her sexuality. The film is produced by Prakash Jha, while his assistant director Alankrita Shrivastava wears the director’s cap in this one. The film is packed with a renowned cast and is also going to premiere at the 29th Tokyo International Film Festival 2016.
Autohead (India Gold)
Director: Rohit Mittal
The Autohead trailer has already driven most of the people insane and now, the film is all set to create some serious buzz at MAMI. This edgy documentary revolves around a film crew following a crazy rickshaw driver’s increasingly destructive adventures, across the suburbs of Mumbai. The film is directed, written by Rohit Mittal, who also stars in the film. Autohead was part of Hong Kong International Film Festival (the only Indian film selected there) and Sitges Film Festival in Spain.
Loev (India Gold)
Director: Sudhanshu Saria
LOEV is about a weekend between friends, where chances are missed, truths evaded and among all the stumbles, it shows how love unexpectedly prevails. Loev has travelled to more than 35 film festivals, including South By Southwest, BFI, Tallinn Black Nights (World Premiere), Tel Aviv International Film Festival (Audience Prize), Jeonju International Film Festival, Frameline among others. Actor Arfi Lamba, who was seen in films like Fukrey, has produced the film under his banner - Bombay Berlin film productions. The banner also has another film, The Road to Mandalay, that will be screened at the festival this year.
An Insignificant Man (Discovering India)
Directors: Khushboo Ranka, Vinay Shukla
This 100-minute film has been distilled from over 400 hours of behind-the-scene footage, shot over a course of two years, with a fly-on-the-wall approach. The film follows now Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and his Aam Aadmi (Common Man’s) Party – an insurgent new political party, as they wield basic public issues like water, electricity, and graft against the country’s oldest and most powerful two political establishments. The film had its World premiere at Toronto International Film Festival and has been screened at BFI London Film Festival, Warsaw International Film Festival, Busan International Film Festival and finally, will now have it's India Premiere at MAMI.
The Cinema Travellers (India Gold)
Directors: Shirley Abraham, Amit Madheshiya
Directors: Shirley Abraham, Amit Madheshiya
The only Indian feature-film to be selected at Cannes earlier this year is an enthralling portrait of the fast-fading journey of the ‘Traveling Cinemas’ of India. A benevolent showman, a shrewd exhibitor and a maverick projector mechanic bear a beautiful burden - to keep the last traveling cinemas of the world running. The film has also been screened at Sydney Film Festival - Australian Premiere, Toronto International Film Festival - North American Premiere, New York Film Festival - US Premiere, Busan International Film Festival - Asian Premiere.
Marathi Talkies: The Marathi Talkies section is screening last year’s hit compilation Bioscope, Rajesh Mapuskar’s family comedy Ventilator, Sachin Kundalkar’s joint-family generational drama Rajwade and Sons and Punarvasu Naik’s satirical thriller Vakratunda Mahakaaya.
Just a few hours to go, before cinephiles rush from one move hall to another, in order to witness some pure cinematic bliss. For those of you who still haven't registered, go get it done right away. You don't wanna miss these amazing films for anything.
Follow us on Facebook | Instagram | Twitter & Snapchat as we bring you live updates, exciting buzz and lots of filmy stories from Jio MAMI Mumbai Film Festival. Join the conversation using #DancebeeatMAMI and if you are around, do come and say hi!
Follow us on Facebook | Instagram | Twitter & Snapchat as we bring you live updates, exciting buzz and lots of filmy stories from Jio MAMI Mumbai Film Festival. Join the conversation using #DancebeeatMAMI and if you are around, do come and say hi!
