Sunday 31 May 2020
Mumbai: Heavy rain likely today as cyclone brews
Live: PM Modi chairs Union Cabinet meet
Fresh blow to airlines, ATF rate hiked by 50%
AI to flyers’ rescue: Waives cancellation fees
Beat the lockdown blues with Helo Mirchi Live
Arjun Kapoor says ‘why not’ when asked by a fan to host a show with Ranveer Singh
The Coronavirus lockdown has left a lot of people with uncertainty as to when things will be back to normal. The actors are trying their best to keep their fans and followers cheered through these difficult times. To spread a little more positivity, Arjun Kapoor asked his fans to send across positive messages to him on Instagram ask and the best ones would receive a reply.
Arjun Kapoor and Ranveer Singh’s friendship is quite a special one since they both starrer in Gunday. Their term of endearment, ‘Baba’, has caught on to a lot of their fans and clearly, they have been missing this dynamic duo a lot! Even though these two are spotted at social events interacting and their banter on social media is adorable, a fan eagerly asked him to host a show with Ranveer Singh. Arjun Kapoor, undoubtedly, readily agreed and we’re wondering if the producers have read this already.
Take a look at his story.
On the work front, post-lockdown, Arjun Kapoor will resume shooting for his untitled next with Rakul Preet Singh.
Also Read: Arjun Kapoor joins Dua Lipa, Jason Derulo to raise funds for people affected by Coronavirus globally!
source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/arjun-kapoor-says-not-asked-fan-host-show-ranveer-singh/
"It’s hard to ignore the truth of migrants on streets, very convenient to forget how privileged we all are" - says Sobhita Dhulipala
Made in Heaven actor Sobhita Dhulipala who turns 28 today says she has never been a fan of elaborate birthday celebrations. ”This birthday will be an intimate affair. I’m going to cook a dish which my mum used to cook when I was a child. I’ll also read some poetry and listen to jazz music,” she adds.
Talking about the current situation, she says, “In this situation of Lockdown it has made us realise how fortunate we are — we just have to stay at home to protect ourselves, more so when we look at the situation of migrants in the country”
“It is just so hard to ignore the truth on the streets. It’s very convenient to forget how privileged we all are, because obviously we always tend to look at what we don’t have, and we aspire towards it, feeling ‘shit we are stuck at this point in our lives, itna karna hai, I have to earn this’. You forget the people who have so little!”
Expressing her helplessness on the plight of migrant workers, she says, “I think this whole migrant crisis is heartbreaking. I read about the lady who dies on the train, and the child walked around her body trying to wake her up. It was heart-wrenching.”
ALSO READ: Sobhita Dhulipala issues clarification after being accused of lying about self-shot images for magazine cover
source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/hard-ignore-truth-migrants-streets-convenient-forget-privileged-says-sobhita-dhulipala/
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Wajid Khan, dies at 42 due to kidney infection
World Milk Day: Have Milk the original way!
BTS' 'DNA' music video hits 1 billion mark making them first Korean boy group to achieve this milestone
BTS FESTA has come with great news! Starting June, which is the month when they debuted seven years ago, on the right note, the South Korean group has achieved a huge milestone.
Their music video for 'DNA' from their 2018 'Love Yourself: Answer' album has hit the 1 billion mark on YouTube. This makes them the first Korean boy group to achieve this milestone. The music video originally released on September 17, 2018, which was the title track of their album.
Meanwhile, BTS has kick-started the countdown to their debut anniversary - June 13, 2020. The FESTA began with 'Airplane Pt. 2' summer version as their opening ceremony. It was filmed during their summer package shoot in Saipan, two years ago. On June 14, they will host virtual concert Bang Bang Con - The Live for their fans.
BTS is also working on their next album after the record-breaking release of 'Map Of The Soul: 7' in February, this year. Their Japanese album 'Map Of The Soul: 7 - The Journey' is set for July 2020 release.
ALSO READ: BTS FESTA 2020: The opening ceremony begins with 'Airplane Pt. 2' in Saipan and we indeed love the summer version a lot
source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/bts-dna-music-video-hits-1-billion-mark-making-them-first-korean-boy-group-to-achieve-this-milestone/
Covid-19 live: India's case count tops 1,90,000
B-town celebs mourn Wajid Khan's demise
Wajid Khan passes away, Amitabh Bachchan, Varun Dhawan, Karan Johar mourn the loss of the music composer
The deadly coronavirus has spread like wildfire around the world. India has been in lockdown since March end in order to contain the spread of the virus. In the latest news, Wajid Khan of the music composer duo Sajid-Wajid has passed away due to COVID-19 at the age of 42. Sonu Nigam confirmed the news post-midnight on June 1 by sharing a photo with the music composer on his Instagram.
As per sources, the music composer had already pre-existing kidney condition before he tested positive for COVID-19. He was admitted to the hospital and was reportedly on a ventilator.
Tributes have been pouring in for Wajid Khan who worked with several artists and actors in the past. Amitabh Bachchan, Varun Dhawan, Karan Johar, Parineeti Chopra are amongst the few who are grieving the untimely passing of the music composer.
Check out the tweets:
T 3548 - Shocked at the passing of Wajid Khan .. a bright smiling talent passes away .. duas , prayers and in condolence ????????????
— Amitabh Bachchan (@SrBachchan) June 1, 2020
#RIPWajidKhan your music will always live on...deepest condolences to the family and loved ones ....gone too soon.....❤️????
— Karan Johar (@karanjohar) June 1, 2020
shocked hearing this news @wajidkhan7 bhai was extremely close to me and my family. He was one of the most positive people to be around. We will miss u Wajid bhai thank u for the music ???? pic.twitter.com/jW2C2ooZ3P
— Varun Dhawan (@Varun_dvn) May 31, 2020
Terrible news. The one thing I will always remember is Wajid bhai's laugh. Always smiling. Gone too soon. My condolences to his family and everyone grieving. Rest in peace my friend. You are in my thoughts and prayers.@wajidkhan7
— PRIYANKA (@priyankachopra) May 31, 2020
Just can’t believe this heartbreaking news????A true lover of music in every sense, incredibly talented & one of the happiest souls gone too soon. RIP Wajid bhai. Allah aapko jannat naseeb karein. You, ur smile & ur music will be missed. My love and duas to the family???????? #WajidKhan pic.twitter.com/JITIWKJ4nL
— Sophie C (@Sophie_Choudry) June 1, 2020
Damnit Wajid. Gone too soon. The songs you sang to me when I was depressed and made Barista in Andheri my retreat will never be forgotten. See you there some day you generous soul.
— Hansal Mehta (@mehtahansal) June 1, 2020
Gone too soon #WajidKhan.. thank you for the music????????deepest condolences to his family.
— Farah Khan (@TheFarahKhan) June 1, 2020
Wajid Bhai you were the nicest, nicest nicest man! Always smiling. Always singing. All heart. Every music session with him was memorable. You will truly be missed wajid bhai. ???????? #WajidKhan
— Parineeti Chopra (@ParineetiChopra) May 31, 2020
I used to call him my brother from another mother. Besides being unbelievably talented he was so gentle & sweet. I’m so heartbroken that I did not get to say Goodbye my sweet @wajidkhan7 I will miss you & our jam sessions forever. Till we meet again #RIP #WajidKhan #Gonetoosoon pic.twitter.com/RAq0pqHJwY
— Preity G Zinta (@realpreityzinta) June 1, 2020
Sad and heartbreaking news . RIP @wajidkhan7 ???? May god give strength to the family for this huge loss ????
— Bipasha Basu (@bipsluvurself) June 1, 2020
RIP Wajid bhai ☹️ you will be deeply missed. The music industry has lost a gem. Gone to soon. My heartfelt condolences to the grieving family and friends. Allah jannat naseeb kare ???? pic.twitter.com/UfD9yVj829
— Arbaaz Khan (@arbaazSkhan) June 1, 2020
Damnit Wajid. Gone too soon. The songs you sang to me when I was depressed and made Barista in Andheri my retreat will never be forgotten. See you there some day you generous soul.
— Hansal Mehta (@mehtahansal) June 1, 2020
My deepest condolences and prayers with all the loved ones and all those mourning the passing of Wajid Khan. What a deeply tragic loss of a life so young... #RIPWajidKhan
— Nimrat Kaur (@NimratOfficial) June 1, 2020
Really really sad news of the passing away of Wajid Khan.. too young to go, such an amazingly loving guy and talent, will miss him a lot ???? .. rest in peace brother, hope you’re in a better place. ????????❤️
— Aftab Shivdasani (@AftabShivdasani) May 31, 2020
Shocked to hear the demise of music composer @wajidkhan7 , My deepest condolences to his family members & friends. RIP ????
— Madhur Bhandarkar (@imbhandarkar) May 31, 2020
Devastated to hear news coming in that one of my childhood friends, music director @wajidkhan7 of Sajid-Wajid has succumbed to #COVID19! Am shocked beyond words! @SajidMusicKhan, mere bhai, sending hugs to you and the family. This is so, so sad. #RIP
— Ranvir Shorey (@RanvirShorey) May 31, 2020
Heartbroken. Both @SajidMusicKhan and @wajidkhan7 have been close & true friends. The kind who might see the light on and show up at our studio in the middle of the night just to meet and talk and share a laugh. Can't believe Wajid and I will never speak again.
— VISHAL DADLANI (@VishalDadlani) May 31, 2020
I’m shocked!! I’ve lost a dear brother Wajid! I can’t come to grips with this tragic news... He was such a beautiful soul..
Oh dear Lord, Please have mercy...????
Ø¥ِÙ†َّا Ù„ِÙ„ّÙ‡ِ ÙˆَØ¥ِÙ†َّـا Ø¥ِÙ„َÙŠْÙ‡ِ رَاجِعون
May Allah SWT bless him in Jannat-ul-Firdaus...Ameen. ????
#WajidKhan pic.twitter.com/B6pO3HyuZM
— Adnan Sami (@AdnanSamiLive) May 31, 2020
Wajid Khan and Sajid Khan, music director duo, are the sons of Ustad Sharafat Ali Khan, a tabla player. They first worked together for Salman Khan's Pyar Kiya To Darna Kya in 1998. They worked as composers for Salman’s films like Hello Brother, Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge (2002), Tere Naam (2003), Garv (2004), Mujhse Shaadi Karogi (2004), Partner (2007), Hello (2008), God Tussi Great Ho (2008), Wanted (2009), Main Aur Mrs Khanna, (2009), Veer (2010), Dabangg (2010), No Problem (2010) among others.
ALSO READ: Wajid Khan of the music composer duo Sajid-Wajid passes away due to COVID-19
source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/wajid-khan-passes-away-amitabh-bachchan-varun-dhawan-karan-johar-mourn-loss-music-composer/
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Saturday 30 May 2020
Live: Can't drop guard in Covid battle as economy opens up, PM says
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Ananya Panday shoots for India’s first brand campaign at home with ONLY!
In these unique times, European denim brand ONLY in collaboration with Cosmopolitan India, innovates to present the retail world’s first campaign with brand ambassador Ananya Panday, shot entirely at home! With ONLY at Home, ONLY captures the canvas of Ananya’s lockdown diaries, encouraging girls to experience these unprecedented times with joy and creativity, while most importantly embracing oneself. Even as the world limps back to normalcy, self-love and self-care will not go out of style.
The campaign attempts to portray the new reality of the world, through the lens of the brand ambassador. ONLY at Home encourages consumers to wade through this season with a smile and unswerving hope, while continually moving forward.
Speaking on the innovation, Vineet Gautam, CEO & Country Head, BESTSELLER India, said, “Our ONLY girl Ananya is edgy with a signature style, just like our brand and we wanted to showcase that! We’re adjusting to current times but shooting a brand campaign at home is creativity and adaptability at its peak. We’re emboldened and filled with hope for the future. We will set more trends, bring in more innovation and continue to forge an inimitable bond with our customers.”
Ecstatic Ananya Panday says “ONLY came up with such a cool concept! A photo shoot, from home and with the best in the business directing us virtually. It was a completely different process but one that I thoroughly enjoyed! I’m excited to see the response it gets.”
Sharing her experience, Nandini Bhalla – Editor, Cosmopolitan India says, “We love associating with brands that resonate our vibe. ONLY is fun and energetic and this was a campaign woven together in creative heaven! We’re glad we could create something so iconic with the perfect muse!”
Also Read: Suhana Khan turns 20 and her best friend, Ananya Panday misses her too much!
source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/ananya-panday-shoots-indias-first-brand-campaign-home/
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Friday 29 May 2020
Kylie Jenner claims inaccurate assumptions have been made after Forbes strips off her billionaire status
Back in April 2020, Forbes magazine announced that the Beauty Moghul Kylie Jenner retained the title of the world's youngest self-made billionaire. The magazine released the list of world's billionaires in which the 22-year-old was revealed to be topping the list for another year. She is worth $1 billion. Now, in their latest expose, Forbes has stripped her of her billionaire status claiming Kylie and her family falsified their earnings.
According to Forbes, there were discrepancies in the tax filings that were provided by Jenner/Kardashian clan and that her business Kylie Cosmetics was not as huge as they claimed it to be. "Kylie's business is significantly smaller and less profitable than the family has spent years leading the cosmetics industry and media outlets, including Forbes, to believe," the publication claimed.
Rubbishing the claims made by Forbes, Kylie Jenner took to Twitter on May 29 and in a series of tweets, she called the allegations as inaccurate. "What am I even waking up to," she wrote. "I thought this was a reputable site.. all I see are a number of inaccurate statements and unproven assumptions," she wrote in one tweet. "I've never asked for any title or tried to lie my way there EVER. period."
She further wrote, "'even creating tax returns that were likely forged” that’s your proof? so you just THOUGHT they were forged? like actually what am i reading. but okay ???? i am blessed beyond my years, i have a beautiful daughter, and a successful business and i’m doing perfectly fine. i can name a list of 100 things more important right now than fixating on how much money i have."
Forbes has now revealed that they are re-calculating Kylie Jenner's net worth which is around $900 million. "Forbes has recalculated Kylie's net worth and concluded that she is not a billionaire," claimed the publication. As per earlier reports, Kylie Jenner was one of just ten billionaires in the world under the age of 30.
what am i even waking up to. i thought this was a reputable site.. all i see are a number of inaccurate statements and unproven assumptions lol. i’ve never asked for any title or tried to lie my way there EVER. period
— Kylie Jenner (@KylieJenner) May 29, 2020
“even creating tax returns that were likely forged” that’s your proof? so you just THOUGHT they were forged? like actually what am i reading.
— Kylie Jenner (@KylieJenner) May 29, 2020
but okay ???? i am blessed beyond my years, i have a beautiful daughter, and a successful business and i’m doing perfectly fine.
— Kylie Jenner (@KylieJenner) May 29, 2020
i can name a list of 100 things more important right now than fixating on how much money i have
— Kylie Jenner (@KylieJenner) May 29, 2020
ALSO READ: Bikini Babes! Kylie Jenner and Kim Kardashian flaunt their curves in sexy bikini photos!
source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/kylie-jenner-claims-inaccurate-assumptions-made-forbes-strips-off-billionaire-status/
Vaani Kapoor to go on a virtual date to raise funds for daily wage earners
Vaani Kapoor is doing her bit to help the daily wage earners which is the neediest segment of people during the lockdown. With no income coming in their way, the daily wage earners are in real need of support, and Vaani Kapoor has teamed up with Anshula Kapoor’s online fundraising platform, Fankind, to raise funds for them and give them food at their doorstep.
Vaani said, “As human beings, we will need to come forward and support as many people as possible in need due to the coronavirus pandemic in our country. I’m doing my bit to support the daily wage earners of our country and their families who are in dire situations given the lockdown. My activity, in which 5 lucky winners can have a virtual date with me, will see us collect funds to help feed them and their families across the country.”
Vaani and Fankind have come together to provide 5 of her fans a chance to go on a virtual date with her - by donating to provide hot meals for the daily wage workers. With millions of daily wage earners stranded without jobs due to the COVID lockdown, they are finding it difficult to arrange food for themselves and their families. They are one of the most marginalized communities as they have barely any savings and almost no access to dry rations to sustain themselves.
The funds will go to GiveIndia which will provide hot cooked meals to wage earners and their families. Each meal costs 30 rupees and will be delivered in various areas of Maharashtra, Bangalore, and Chennai. Each meal will be a wholesome and nutritional platter comprising healthy staples like rice, daal, vegetables, chapati, and more. A.T.E. Chandra Foundation has also come on board and will be adding 25% of the total donation value collected as a matching amount, thereby multiplying the impact.
Also Read: “I had a blessed 2019 with War,” says Vaani Kapoor, who now teams up with Ranbir Kapoor in Shamshera
source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/vaani-kapoor-go-virtual-date-raise-funds-daily-wage-earners/
Sonu Sood has approximately sent over 12,000 migrant labourers to their homes
The one member of the Indian entertainment industry who has proved himself a messiah for stranded migrant workers is Sonu Sood. It all started in a trickle of good samaritanism when distressed migrants desirous of travelling home reached out to Sonu Sood for help. Soon, the trickle turned into a torrent of transportation as Sood, the young muscular actor from Hindi, Telugu and Tamil cinema, arranged buses for hundreds of daily wage-earners to reach their homes during this period of extended lockdown.
Explaining the reason why he took the initiative to ensure these migrants reached home with hope in their eyes and food in their bellies, Sonu Sood says, “When I saw those haunting visuals of hundreds of workers walking for hundreds of miles, I couldn’t look away. I had to do something. Like many of us, I couldn’t sleep.”
It all started for Sonu with a chance encounter with migrant workers on the streets of Mumbai. “When I was on one of my food drives, I saw migrants walking. When I asked them where they were heading to, they said Karnataka. I couldn’t believe they were walking all the way for those hundreds of miles. I told them to give me two days to arrange buses for them.”
Sonu then began negotiating though India’s great network of redtapism. “I started talking to government officials in Maharashtra and Karnataka. I got all the necessary permission. And I sent around 350 migrants home to Karnataka in the first lot .”
Something told Sonu this was just the beginning of the journey. “Seeing them smile with tears in their eyes, I knew this was not going to be for just 350 people. I had to help thousands who were trying to get home during the lockdown. I started a dialogue with government officials of many other Indian states like Uttarakhand, Bihar, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh about how to get these migrants home from the cities.”
Everywhere the actor-philanthropist got a positive response. “They were very helpful. They got things moving through the bureaucracy. Even now as we speak around 1200 migrants are being taken home. Approximately, 12,000 migrants have reached home by now (through Sonu Sood’s initiative). As we speak the phone is ringing with more requests. This is a mission for me. I won’t sleep well until every single migrant from Mumbai and Delhi reaches home.”
What forces impel Sonu to do what he is doing? “It’s something I’ve been brought up with. My mom and dad always taught me that privilege means a responsibility. If I am successful, it is because I am meant to help those who are less privileged than me.”
Sonu has made a promise to himself. “I’ll see every single worker home. And I am not in this alone. My chartered accountants, my best friend Neeti Goel, we are all in this together. We speak 20 times a day co-ordinating travel plans for workers in different cities. I just hope I’m able to live up to expectations. My own and the people reaching out to me for help.”
Sonu Sood is working 20 hours a day to see the migrants are on their way. “I’m super-charged . I am connecting with people till late in the night and then seeing a new bus load of migrants are off to their destination in the morning. It’s a 24x7 job.”
And the payoff? “I can’t describe the feeling when workers send me videos during their journey home and when they reach home. They make me realize I’m on the right path. I feel somewhere I will be part of the lives of all those people whom I’ve helped reach home.”
To Sonu, this is the greatest achievement of his life. “I may have done a hundred films. But to hold the hand of those people sitting at the roadside waiting for someone to take them home is a life-changing experience. It will stay with me forever.”
Why aren’t other privileged members of the Bollywood fraternity coming forward with a helping hand? Sonu mumbles, “Oh everyone is doing what he or she can. We’re all in this together.”
Spoken like a true altruist.
Also Read: After sending migrant labourers home, Sonu Sood airlifts 177 women stuck in Kerala
source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/sonu-sood-approximately-sent-12000-migrant-labourers-homes/
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Sidharth Shukla on life post Bigg Boss 13 amid lockdown - "My career is on pause"
Sidharth Shukla couldn’t enjoy the new lease of stardom after his Bigg Boss 13 win, because of the lockdown.
But he is not complaining about the lockdown. “We are in a alarming situation. We wait for an antidote to the virus. Until then, we don’t know where we can go. Yes, my career is on pause. But that’s the least of the problems right now. In the meanwhile, I am doing my usual cardio-vascular, leading a very regimented life at home. Everyone wants to resume work, but at what cost?”
It is rumoured that Sidharth has several enormously lucrative offers which came his way after the Bigg Boss 13 victory including offers for feature films. All of this is for now on hold.
“I really wouldn’t know what lies in store for me. I don’t know what I will be resuming with. All that needs to be figured out after work is resumed. I can’t pick the one thing that I will be resuming with. It will have to be figured out after the lockdown,” says Sidharth.
Also Read: Throwback: When Sidharth Shukla had Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in splits
source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/sidharth-shukla-life-post-bigg-boss-13-amid-lockdown-career-pause/
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REVEALED: How Aamir Khan spent JUST Rs. 10 to get married to Reena Dutta
The 2002 flick Saathiya, starring Vivek Oberoi and Rani Mukerji, is fondly remembered today as a sweet love story. One of the memorable sequences in this flick was the lead characters getting married to each other, without their families’ knowledge. What’s more, after tying the knot, they go back to their respective houses and pretend to be not married at all. Author Sanjukta Nandy in her book 'Khantastic - The Untold Story Of Bollywood's Trio' has revealed that even Aamir Khan’s life saw a similar episode, when he married his first wife Reena Dutta.
Aamir saw her for the first time when he was around 20. She was standing at the window of the apartment opposite to his. He felt a connection when he saw her and hence, began to spend more time at the window. Even Reena, he thought, was doing the same, thus giving him the hint that he should take matters forward. He did and told her that he liked her. She, however, felt that she had little in common with him and declined his proposal. This was a huge blow for Aamir Khan as he had already suffered severe heartbreaks before. But at the same time, his sixth sense told him that Reena too liked him but was reluctant to admit. Hence, he told her to not hurry and that she should tell him her final answer in two days. He also promised that he won’t pursue her if her answer is still ‘No’. As luck would have it, Reena Dutta’s answer didn’t change even after two days. Aamir, as promised, walked away and no longer stood at the window.
It turns out that Aamir Khan’s instinct was right. A couple of months later, Reena approached Aamir and hesitatingly told him that she liked him too. She was wondering whether he’s still interested in her. Aamir was more than happy with his turn of events and thus began their relationship.
The relationship however had its share of problems. This was a time when Aamir was not earning and had even left his studies. Reena meanwhile was still a student, studying statistics at St Xavier’s College, Mumbai. Reena’s parents found out about their love story and made their displeasure clear. Both were sure that their parents would never approve of their relationship. Hence, they decided to marry secretly.
Aamir Khan turned 21 on March 14, 1986 and the same day, he applied to the marriage registrar’s office. On April 18, they were called to Griha Nirman Bhavan to officially become man and wife. It was the day when the whole country was busy watching the historic India vs Pakistan match at Sharjah where Javed Miandad scored a sixer in the last ball. On the other hand, both reached the registrar’s office with few of their hands and within fifteen minutes, got married. Aamir Khan has recalled in an interview that he spent only Rs 10 on this whole affair. This meagre amount was splurged on a box of mithai, garlands and possibly on using the BEST bus to travel to and fro.
Realizing that this called for celebration, a small party was held at Aamir’s friend and director Satyajit Bhatkal’s house. Snacks and cold drinks were arranged and Satyajit’s wife Svati, also one of the witnesses at the registration, got a cake. After making merry for some time, everyone left as Satyajit’s mother was to return and hence, all traces of the celebration needed to be eradicated. After the party, Aamir and Reena went back to their house and carried on with their lives like before.
Sometime later, Aamir Khan started shooting for his home production, his first film as an adult, Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak. One day, Reena visited the sets in Mumbai and no one batted an eyelid as both were thought to be good friends. Aamir here thought of a plan. He convinced his cousin and director of the film, Mansoor Khan, to let Reena appear in the film for a few seconds. This was the day Aamir was shooting for the chartbuster song ‘Papa Kehte Hai’. Reena initially felt shy but Aamir persuaded her. For those who are not aware, she’s the one in red to whom Aamir sings ‘Gaalon mein khilti, kaliyon ka mausam’ and even touches her cheeks.
All was going well until Aamir Khan went down South for a schedule of Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak. Due to local disturbances on the Ooty-Bengaluru highway, the unit decided to move to Bengaluru to shoot. Meanwhile, Reena was in Mumbai and had gone for a college picnic. She had promised that she would call Aamir once she was back home. However, her call didn’t come through and Aamir refused to leave until he would talk to her. The unit got restless as precious team was being wasted because of Aamir. This is when an emotional Aamir Khan told his sister Nuzhat about the truth. Finally, Reena called and the reason for her delay was because the picnic bus had broken down. It was only after Aamir found that she is fine did the unit move.
Thanks to this episode, both the families found out about their marriage. The Khan family glad welcomed here as their daughter-in-law. Reena Dutta’s parents were far from happy. Reena’s father, a senior officer in Air India, was so shocked that he fell sick and had to be hospitalized. Aamir quickly visited him and showed genuine concern for his condition. This act helped in winning his approval. Reena Dutta’s father always loved Aamir from there on and years later, he told Aamir that he could not have chosen a better husband for his daughter.
With Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak about to release, Aamir Khan was told by his PR manager R R Pathak to keep his marriage under wraps. The belief was that a married debuting hero would not unleash the desired craze. Aamir might have had reservations about this belief. But knowing that a lot was at stake, he agreed to do so.
The press, however, soon got wind of the truth. A few months after the release of Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak, its fans found out that Aamir Khan, the latest heartthrob of the nation, is already taken. Sometime later, they also found out that the beautiful girl in red in ‘Papa Kehte Hain’ song was actually the wife.
Thankfully for Aamir Khan, his popularity didn’t take a beating once news of his marriage was out. The couple remained married for 16 years and then they divorced. Aamir has two children from this marriage – son Junaid and daughter Ira.
source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/revealed-aamir-khan-spent-just-rs-10-get-married-reena-dutta/
No threat to urban areas from locusts: UN body
Happy Birthday Jennifer Winget: From Kaarthika to Beyhadh 2, here’s how she shattered glass ceilings with her on-screen persona
Jennifer Winget is one of the best and undoubtedly the most looked up to actresses of Indian television. Even though she started her career off as a child artiste, there are only so many people who can carry themselves as Jennifer does. Keeping her poise and grace maintained at all times, Jennifer Winget is one of the highest-paid actresses of the television fraternity for all the right reasons. She started off with small roles in movies like Raja Ko Rani Se Pyar Hogaya and Kuch Naa Kaho in the late 90s and then moved on to television in the early 2000s.
She started off by playing a role in Shaka Laka Boom Boom until she finally got a big break in Kaarthika where she played the role of a struggling singer dreaming of making it big. Then she played the role of Sneha in Kasautii Zindagii Kay and later, her role as Dr. Riddhima Gupta in Dill Mill Gayye won our hearts! Her role as Kumud Desai in Saraswatichandra was critically acclaimed. All along with these shows, Jennifer Winget was seen playing almost conventional roles that, of course, had a different spark in them.
In 2016, Jennifer Winget signed Beyhadh where she played the headstrong Maya Mehrotra and she truly stepped out of her comfort zone. From playing a Gujarati bahu as Kumud to being the obsessive Maya, Jennifer Winget made a lot of heads turn with her bold avatar that left us all asking for more. She had truly expanded her horizons by then and the grey hues to her character only added charm to her on-screen persona. Maya was a contrasting role to her actual personality that happens to be a very joyful and bubbly one.
After Beyhadh ended with Maya’s character, there are a lot of scenes in the show that are still etched in her fans’ hearts where she had outdone herself as an actress when it came to portraying emotions. Soon after that, she signed Bepannaah. And it can be safely said that to play a character so beautifully broken with such effortlessness can only be done by her. from being a naïve wife who refuses to believe that her husband is an infidel to being an entrepreneur who can hold her own, Jennifer Winget portrayed Zoya Siddiqui/Hooda’s journey in a mere 8 months’ time. The show did not go on for long and despite an abrupt ending, the fans still praise her for her impeccable performance.
Since Maya is a groundbreaking character for her, it was only fitting that she came back with season two for the show, and hence, in December 2019, she started the journey of Maya Jaisingh in Beyhadh 2. The show has come to an end considering the Coronavirus lockdown, however, the show too, had a lot of promising scenes with a vengeful Maya who was willing to go beyond limits to seek justice for herself. Even though she’s portrayed as vengeful and full of rage, Maya’s character was also a scarred one that went through a lot of abuse, and to portray that on-screen was surely not a piece of cake. But, since it’s Jennifer, she made it look as flawless as ever and we are definitely not getting over her character anytime sooner.
So far, Jennifer Winget has shattered glass ceilings and there’s no other way she would have it. Her characters have evolved with time and Jennifer Winget has outdone her previous performances every single time. As she turns a year older today, we can’t help but thank her for playing these amazing roles and giving us the best characters to cherish. Happy Birthday, Jennifer Winget!
source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/happy-birthday-jennifer-winget-kaarthika-beyhadh-2-heres-shattered-glass-ceilings-screen-persona/
Thursday 28 May 2020
When Rishi Kapoor took on Vyjanthimala for ‘lying’
When it came to calling a spade, a spade no one could do with better than Rishi Kapoor. I’ve been at the receiving end of some of his sharpest barbs. When he didn’t like something you did, he would tell you in your face. Veteran actress Vyjanthimala got the brunt of Rishi’s wrath when in her memoirs she dismissed her alleged relationship with Rishi’s father Raj Kapoor during the making of Sangam as a mere publicity for the film.
Rishi went on a warpath against Vyjanthimala calling her a liar, and many other things. While all this is indeed commendable in the frank speak department, it is a fact that everyone in Bollywood lies in their memoirs. Sanjay Khan has not even mentioned Zeenat Aman in his memoirs and Jeteendra gives a blank look when Hema Malini is mentioned. You can bet your last rupee that if Mithun Chakraborty wrote his memoirs there would be no mention of Sridevi in it.
I remember asking Vyjanthimala about Rishi’s outburst. She had said, “He reacted as a son. But only the people involved know what really happens between two people. No one from the outside, no matter how close, knows the truth.”
Also Read: 3 Times when Rishi Kapoor crushed on older heroines
source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/rishi-kapoor-took-vyjanthimala-lying/
FITNESS GOALS: Hina Khan nails the Barre Pilates making it look effortless as ever
Hina Khan has been a fitness enthusiast for the longest time now and has made sure to get her daily dose of exercise even during the lockdown. It has been over two months that the gyms have been shut, however, that does not stop Hina from maintaining her physique. The Hacked actress has been sharing videos of herself working out quite often and has made it a point to encourage her fans to stay fit. She recently posted a video of herself trying out the Barre Pilates that requires one to balance their body on their toes and we’re surprised at how effortless she makes it look.
She posted the video sharing a few details of this difficult exercise and also explained the right technique to do it. The caption reads, “#BarrePilates #RiseGirl I know I know, it seems very easy when u look at it.. My reaction was exactly the same when my Pilates instructor @shefalishirke gave me a demo and explained the exercise.. buuttttt trust me guys it’s not that simple..when you lift your feet up in the air and your entire body weight lies on the tips of your toes or max to max on the balls of your feet.. you hv to keep going and continue to pulse, squat, releve and many other forms of barre exercises, without breaking the flow.. #TryItToBelieveIt And Barre is just a prop to balance, you can’t put your weight on the barre.. Rule no 1 ???? A very effective workout to strengthen and tone your muscles, and definitely improves your posture.. #WorkoutWithHinaKhan #PilatesGirl #Beginner #BodyBalance”
Take a look at it.
View this post on Instagram
If this is how she works out like a beginner, we wonder what she will do when she becomes a pro!
Also Read: Hina Khan looks ethereal in her latest pictures, leaves her fans gushing over her infectious smile
source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/fitness-goals-hina-khan-nails-barre-pilates-making-look-effortless-ever/
EXPLOSIVE: Single screen exhibitors SLAM Bollywood; emphasize on more of 'Rohit Shetty and not Vishal Bhardwaj-type of cinema' - Part 2
Since a couple of years and until the lockdown was enforced, the success rate of Bollywood films had improved significantly. But that alone doesn’t give a complete picture. Most of these movies made money only in multiplexes, that too in a handful of urban centres. However, India is much more than these few cities. There are several hundreds of towns and villages where several single screen cinemas exist. These can be found in metropolitan cities as well. And in these theatres, majority of our ‘hit’ films prove to be a flop because the content just doesn’t appeal to the audiences there. Hence, it’s no surprise that while new multiplexes are being made in megacities like Mumbai and Delhi; single screens on the other hand are shutting shop.
Several webinars of exhibitors have taken place off late wherein one factor has emerged clearly. The ones in the South are worried right now due to zero business but are more confident of bouncing back. The reason? They know that the South filmmakers regularly churn out massy, commercial fares. No wonder that the footfalls down South are always high and you’ll never hear of a theatre shutting down in Tamil Nadu or Andhra Pradesh. Bollywood meanwhile comes up with a pan-India film once in a while. Take the month of February 2019 for instance. It saw the release of 5 significant films – Malang, Love Aaj Kal, BHOOT: Part One – The Haunted Ship, Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan and Thappad. None of these movies were typical commercial entertainers, except Malang to an extent. Hence, one can imagine the plight of the single-screen theatre owners in ‘B’ and ‘C’ centres as they must have struggled to get viewers for these films in February.
To get an accurate idea of the demands and woes of the exhibitors, we at Bollywood Hungama decided to talk to them directly. We contacted exhibitors from all across the country – North, East, West, South, Central and even North-East! They raised several points and one of them is common among them – make more pan-India films!
Most favourite actors of exhibitors
Single-screen exhibitors list out who are the actor actors, according to them, that are a hit among their audiences or have the potential to be pan-India stars. All exhibitors unanimously agreed that Salman Khan is the numero uno superstar in this regard. Talking of other actors, Gurmeet Singh tells, “I really like Varun Dhawan as an actor. He does a fantastic job and was so comfortable from his first film. And then he did one film like October and wahan se bechara ka track record hi kharab ho gaya.” He then hails Akshay Kumar, “He played a smart move. He did films like Special 26, Baby, Airlift etc. which were in a way multiplex cinema but still had the commercial flavour. Woh jo masses ko chahiye rehta hai, woh inki films mein mil jaata tha. And it’s not like he alienated them ever.”
Chinmoy Sharma runs Anuradha Cineplex in Guwahati and he reveals that even the Assam capital has a fan culture. He tells, “We have keep fan clubs of star ever here. Whenever the film of their favourite stars release, they are kind enough to come to my hall. For the inauguration show, they’ll decorate the theatre with flowers and posters, light a lamp and distribute mithai. And from Shah Rukh Khan to Tiger Shroff, we get fans of various stars here!”
Rashmikant Bhalodia lists Hrithik Roshan, Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, Ranveer Singh and Ranbir Kapoor. Akshaye Rathi mentions, “There’s Tiger Shroff, who’s doing it right. Also many actors can work big time if do right kind of films. Look at Ranbir Kapoor in Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani and Raajneeti. These actors should select films that have bigger intrinsic value. The more their films perform, they’ll appeal to more number of audiences. So it’ll benefit not just the industry but also them. Tomorrow when they become pan-India stars and are as popular in a Bhilwara as Bandra West, they’ll have a bigger reach and they’ll deserve it.”
Sandeep Jain exults, “Ranbir Kapoor has a lot of potential. But woh utna kaam kar hi nahi raha. Look at Ranveer Singh. He has proved himself with mass roles in Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-leela, Simmba etc. Ekdum bindaas acting karta hai. Mass aise hi jeeta hai na? Even in Dil Dhadakne Do, his character was very different and very entertaining. He can also become a nice action hero. Then, one actor who can replace Govinda is Varun Dhawan. Even Kartik Aaryan has potential.”
Gumreet Singh also mentions that Emraan Hashmi was a hit among the crowd. He reveals, “Emraan was a mass star and had a huge fan following but he ruined it with his choice of films. I still remember once I was in my theatre lobby and a standee was put up of a then upcoming Emraan Hashmi film. A couple of teenaged school kids saw the standee and one of them asked the other ‘Oye, yeh harami ki bhi picture aa rahi hai…zara dekh kab aa rahi hai’. This was his image which helped him become so huge among the masses!” He then narrates one more interesting incident, “I still remember in Baadshaho, jab Ajay Devgn ki entry hui, tab taaliyaan aur seetiyaan baji. Lekin Emraan Hashmi ki entry mein hall goonj utha! Even today, if he does a well-made film where he’s playing a harami, he’ll work big time for sure.”
Suman Sinha says, “Both Tiger Shroff and Hrithik Roshan are big, the latter especially when helmed by an able director. Both were so amazing in War. The songs in the film were out of place but our masses can’t accept a big film without songs. So the director smartly incorporated these songs which had good dancing beats. So the combination of action and dancing of Hrithik and Tiger did wonders. In the last three years, I have had the highest share of War in Patna.”
Many exhibitors similarly admire Hrithik Roshan but maintain that should do the correct kind of films. They also slam him for doing Super 30, a film which they say did well majorly in multiplexes. Gurmeet Singh states, “Hrithik Roshan is a superstar but he should do more massy films. Arre aap War jaisi picturein karo, bright picture karo, colourful picture karo. Also, the age doesn’t show on his face. He might be 45 but cast him in Student Of The Year 3 and he’ll fit in!”
Sandeep Jain is in agreement, “An actor like Hrithik Roshan can easily give 2 hits in a year. Same with Ranbir Kapoor. They want to become accomplished artists. For what? Why can’t they make a normal film? Then everyone will see.” Vinay Choksey also agrees, “Hrithik Roshan has to do films like War and Dhoom 2 and not Super 30. Super 30 has got its limitations – it didn’t do well in B and C centres.”
Even in the Southern states, War did well, as confirmed by Ruban Mathivanan. He tells, “Aamir Khan is still fresh from the success of Dangal down South. People still remember him for that film. Apart from Aamir Khan, most of the masses here know only about Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan. War, however, did very good business here. But I don’t remember the last time Hrithik’s film did such great business in South. I remember screening Kaabil. But it proved to be a super-flop here.” He says the recent crop of actors don’t have craze as they are still quite new for the audiences.
As for other actors, Gurmeet Singh states, “Ranveer Singh does a fantastic job. He’s doing different stuff and very good work. Then Tiger Shroff is great. Then Ranbir Kapoor is phenomenal. Pick up his bad film but you’ll still like him. But I wonder what is he doing with himself?” He also reminds, “Shahid Kapoor is also wonderful and should do more films. He’s very hard-working and gets into the skin.”
Most favourite directors of exhibitors
What about the directors who are in their list of favourites? Suman Sinha says, “Rakesh Roshan has been amazing. He has made films that have catered to all sections of society.” Gurmeet Singh also roots for veteran filmmakers to make more of rooted cinema. He says, “Our veteran producers like Boney Kapoor, Sajid Nadiadwala, Indra Kumar, Ashok Thakeria etc should come forward and make more and more films”. He also brings up more names, “We desperately need commercial directors. Farhad Samji can grow. Also it was wrong to write-off Abbas-Mustan. If Salman Khan had asked them to handle Race 3, they would have rocked the show.”
Rashmikant Bhalodia says, “Rohit Shetty is the only one I can recall from the top of my mind. At one point, we had so many such directors.” Akshaye Rathi states, “Rajkumar Hirani, Farah Khan, Rohit Shetty, Siddharth Anand and also Sanjay Leela Bhansali when he makes a Padmaavat or Bajirao Mastani. Also, Karan Johar – his films like Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham were absolute pan-India films. Same goes for Aditya Chopra – his films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Mohabbatein and Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi – worked across the country. So, a lot of these directors have the potential. But sometimes in the attempt to please everyone, they manage to alienate the audiences that exist beyond the metros.”
Rohit Shetty seems to be a hot favourite among exhibitors. Sandeep Jain reveals, “Rohit Shetty has a near 100% success rate. Uski film se har aadmi paisa banata hai. Viewers also have their share of fun.” Ruban Mathivanan too makes it clear that he has a fan base in South as well, “Rohit Shetty’s films create sensation all over the country? He’s trying something new with the cop universe. We have seen Marvel Cinematic Universe comprising of superheroes. But to create a cop universe with three big stars is so exciting. We all are waiting to see them on screen together. I myself was waiting to catch Sooryavanshi.”
Vinay Choksey meanwhile adds, “Rohit Shetty is great. Then directors from South like S S Rajamouli and A R Murugadoss are also quite good. They all make films that are wholly commercial. Even the director of War, Siddharth Anand, makes nice, glossy films, although his past films didn’t do quite well. War had a great star cast and it was pleasure to see Hrithik Roshan and Tiger Shroff dancing together on ‘Jai Jai Shivshankar’ song.” Ruban Mathivanan informs that Rajkumar Hirani is popular in South and that “Sanju did decent business over here.”
Least favourite directors of exhibitors
The single-screen exhibitors, meanwhile, also have reservations with directors like Vishal Bhardwaj and Anurag Kashyap. While they are hailed by a tiny section as messiahs, their films have extremely limited reach and rarely work in single screens. And the fear, among exhibitors, is that once the lockdown is lifted, these filmmakers will still be given sizeable budgets to make films.
Akshaye Rathi elaborates, “Our industry right now is going through a massive, massive economic crisis. And at such point of time, sanctioning the next Vishal Bhardwaj film is actually like Italian government sanctioning the building of the next Leaning Tower Of Pisa after suffering the most due to Coronavirus pandemic! So, we need to strengthen our foundations first for a couple of years and then go back and experiment with art. And if these filmmakers like these want to make films, their budgets should be cut down to one-tenth of what they are currently. Let’s face it, there’s an audience for their kind of film. But the intrinsic value of a Vishal Bhardwaj film is not beyond 5 or 6 cities of India. So the budgets of their films should also be such that it can be covered from these few cities.”
Vinay Choksey also agrees, “Directors like Anurag Kashyap and Vishal Bhardwaj can make films only for ‘A’ class centres. Their films don’t go beyond these places. Sometimes, they also make quite dark movies which further restrict their reach.”
Gurmeet Singh meanwhile makes his displeasure clear over Vikas Bahl and says that both his films, Queen and Shaandaar were disasters in single screens, though the former was a success for the producers. He rues, “Queen didn’t do well in single screens at all. It was a washout, in fact! It did most of its business in multiplexes.” He also slams Imtiaz Ali, “Imtiaz got such reputed actors in Jab Harry Met Sejal. Kya ban sakti thi woh picture. Tamasha ka tu usne Tamasha hi bana diya. If I ask you to tell me its plot in one line, you won’t be able to.” He further adds about his latest release, “I had already told distributors of Love Aaj Kal ki yeh film paani nahi maangegi.”
Will South capture the North market?
5 years ago, Baahubali: The Beginning ushered a new wave of cinema. The success of this period actioner along with historic blockbuster performance of Baahubali 2: The Beginning made it clear that South films can pull in a lot of viewers, if made well.
Akshaye Rathi is confident that if Bollywood doesn’t pull up its socks, South cinema will take over, “The audience is hungry for entertainment. If they don’t get it from the fraternity that primarily caters to their market, then they’ll look elsewhere. So whether it’s Allu Arjun, Mahesh Babu, Rana Daggubtati, Prabhas, Vijay Sethupathi, Vijay, Surya or Rajinikanth, they are already popular among the Hindi belt masses courtesy the channels that airs their films. I think there are channels that primarily run courtesy the South Indian dubbed content! If you look beyond the top 15 cities, then Allu Arjun is a bigger star than lot of our younger actors!”
He proves his point by narrating a funny and eye-opening incident, “There’s an Allu Arjun film called Naa Peru Surya, Naa Illu India (2018). Its Hindi dubbed version is called Surya: The Soldier and it released in a lot of centres in cinemas. And believe it or not, I saw viewers coming and clicking selfies with the standee of Allu Arjun! I have never seen that happen with a Rajkummar Rao, Ayushmann Khurrana or Nawazuddin Siddiqui. This shows that audiences connect with these stars and that’s primarily because their content appeals to their taste buds.”
The other filmmakers however feel typical South films won’t work all across the country and only the grand ones have a chance. Gurmeet Singh says, “No one will watch dubbed films after paying Rs. 400-450 in cinemas. Baahubali, 2.0, KGF etc were exceptions.” Rashmikant Bhalodia also feels no dubbed film might match up to the business of Baahubali. “Baahubali worked because it was mounted on a grand scale,” he tells. Sandeep Jain argues, “If the South actors work in films made in Hindi, then they can work. Baahubali was a rare exception. Otherwise, you get to see so many South films on television already. Why would anyone pay to watch same kind of content in cinemas?” Vinay Choksey is in agreement, “South dubbed films will keep coming and will do well. But it has to be on a bigger scale.”
Ruban Mathivanan opines, “We have seen Dangal work here. We have seen Baahubali work there, up North. So it’s always about the content, irrespective of the star, language etc. So you have to start listening to your audience as to what they want. Give us quality content is what audience is asking.”
Not many people would know this, but the Hindi dubbed version of @alluarjun’s Naa Peru Surya, Naa Illu India has released in cinemas this week & it is the highest collecting film at many centers. The audience can really surprise you at times! pic.twitter.com/0ECWU5Jq0N
— Akshaye Rathi / अक्षय राठी (@akshayerathi) September 11, 2018
Hollywood to the rescue
However, all exhibitors agree that Hollywood films are a godsend. Vinay Choksey says, “Hollywood films collect very well especially Avengers and Fast & Furious movies. Exhibitors wait to screen their films. Avengers: Endgame, in fact, fetched better collection than any Hindi movie in 2019.” Rashmikant Bhalodia also agrees, “Hollywood dubbed films does more business in my theatre than the combined business of multiplexes around here!” Suman Sinha tells, “In the last 6 years, our single screen has survived only because of Hollywood movies. Actors like Vin Diesel, Dwayne Johnson, Robert Downey Jr etc have surpassed our Indian heroes! It’s their films that do maximum business and the same can be said only for a handful of Bollywood films. People in Bombay have mostly given us substandard films, devoid of any content.”
Exhibitors stress on the need for modernization of single screens
Notwithstanding their issues with Bollywood, exhibitors also point out that single-screens also shut down because they are not well-maintained or aren’t regularly renovated. Sandeep Jain tells, “How many exhibitors have upgraded their single screens? I run 8 single screens and all of them are performing well. Of course, when a Salman Khan entertainer releases, it does good business. But it makes sense that when a classy film releases, a certain percentage of multiplex audience would also come to our theatres. Most people today defer from going to single screens because they fear seats are not comfortable, toilets are unclean and food options are not exciting. So we have alienated a large chunk of audiences by not refurbishing.”
Suman Sinha agrees and explains how he had the foresight, “Most of the single screens are owned by very well-to-do families of the society. And their children, when they take over, they don’t bother about the seats, ambience, and easiness of buying tickets. I had come to Mumbai in 2008 to negotiate with Book My Show. I met their director who told me that they’ll not like to associate with my theatre. When I asked them the reason, he argued that who in Patna will have the debit card to purchase online? He also quoted the charges – Rs. 4 lakh for the hardware and Rs. 1.5 lakhs for the software. They felt it’ll be a waste of money. But I maintained that I want to be ahead of the times. Finally their system was installed in my cinema hall. And let me tell you, today I am one of the highest online ticket sellers in North India! I probably got the first mover advantage.”
Suman Sinha went a step ahead and gave additional facilities also that not only attracted crowds but also emerged as an additional source of income. He reveals, “Our cinema halls can’t survive as a standalone property. It has to be a destination. I realized this and hence, I approached Café Coffee Day and their first cafe in Bihar opened in my theatre in 2010. Then I realized this alone isn’t enough. People wanted to eat something before or after the movie. This is when I decided to start KFC in my cinema. Again, it was KFC’s first outlet in Bihar, in 2012. Now families and women were coming to cinemas but children were not. They were more interested to visit the game parlour in a mall. So I approached a gaming company and thus started a gaming zone. My point is that if I am doing business, I have to keep my eyes open and observe around. Similarly, the makers of Panga and Chhapaak should come out and move with the masses. They should find out why masses didn’t connect and what was missing in their films.”
Chinmoy Sharma too upgraded his hall, though he had another reason for it as well. He tells, “Sometimes we don’t get certain films as we are told that these movies are only for the multiplexes. We did two things to overcome this hurdle. We started to give facilities of a multiplex. We installed 3D, Dolby 7.1 and one of the best projection systems. We made seats comfortable. And instead or Anuradha cinema, we re-branded as Anuradha Cineplex! Secondly, we joined hands with PVR and made them our booking partner. So with PVR coming on board, they make sure I get all the films categorized as ‘multiplex cinema’! And I pay them a monthly charge for their services.”
He also installed recliners in his single screen property, “We have a lower floor, balcony and then the recliners. So we get different segments of audiences as the ticket price ranges from Rs. 100 to Rs. 350.” He adds, “I feel all the single screen owners should think of upgrading themselves.” Chinmoy reveals that post renovation, even multiplex films do well. He says, “Whichever type of film is released, we are able to break even.” However, this might be more so because the audience in Guwahati is more evolved and educated than that of rest of India.
The owners also ensure that they remain approachable to their audiences. Suman Sinha reveals, “I still sit with audiences in the lowest class. I go and use the public toilet in my theatre. I don’t have my own personal washroom. That is how I keep a check on the sanitation and housekeeping.”
Ultimately, a renovated single-screen with world-class facilities can give you a feel that no multiplex can offer, guarantees exhibitors. Chinmoy Sharma tells, “The sound and the atmosphere that you get in a single screen, a multiplex cannot match that.” Rashmikant Bhalodia too tells that his theatre now boasts of 62-feet screen and an ‘awesome sound system’. The veteran exhibitor also was one of the first ones in India to embrace the 70mm system. Suman Sinha also believes that Dolby sound and 3D installation gives amazing results on his big screen.
Conclusion
Even if single screen exhibitors spruce up their single screen and turn it as luxurious as a multiplex, it won’t be enough. They’ll need relatable content to play. Sandeep Jain tells, “Every month, we want at least one mass oriented film. There’s a reason why we wait for Sooryavanshi or for Salman Khan and other Akshay Kumar films. Har mahine ek badi film aayegi toh hamara mahina nikal jaayega.” Suman Sinha explains, “We released Chhapaak in only 1 show. The distributors were very angry with me. They wanted me to screen 3 shows but I was adamant and said ‘Nothing doing’. Same with Panga. Ultimately, what happened? They lost money, right? The intention however behind making Chhapaak was to make money. So why are these fools not able to understand they should come up with content that would be massy.”
There’s also a need for actors to not limit themselves to doing one film in a year or two. Ruban Mathivanan explains, “Except for Vijay, Ajith and Rajinikanth, everybody in South does 2 films a year. That is how it should be. Everybody in Bollywood should work in 2 films in a year. Maybe they can do one for the critics and one for the masses!”
Sandeep Jain adds, “Livelihoods of so many people are dependent on stars. If one single screen shuts, it means 20 people would be out of work. So we should make films the way South does, or even the way our filmmakers like Manmohan Desai and Prakash Mehra did. These films had everything in adequate doses. In today’s times, writing is missing”.
Gurmeet Singh cautions, “If big-budget and commercial films don’t release often, we won’t be able to take off. We’ll in fact crash-land.” Akshaye Rathi signs off as he says, “Creating art and doing films for your own satisfaction is very good. But ultimately, this is the audiences’ medium. Customer is king and we need to treat them like that.”
source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/explosive-single-screen-exhibitors-slam-bollywood-emphasize-rohit-shetty-not-vishal-bhardwaj-type-cinema-part-2/
India sees biggest single-day jump in corona cases
BTS' Suga releases Jungkook's guide version of 'Dear My Friend' from his mixtape AGUST D-2
BTS rapper-songwriter-producer Suga left the fans surprised when he dropped his second mixtape 'D-2' under his pseudonym AGUST D after his 2016's mixtape. The 10 track mixtape released one week ago and has received a tremendous amount of love from fans.
On May 28, Suga did a livestream to talk about 'D-2' at length. During the conversation with the fans, he revealed that earlier guide version of his emotional track 'Dear My Friend' from the mixtape had his member Jungkook's vocals. The official version features NELL's Kim Jong Wan singing in Korean. But, the earlier demo version was in English with Jungkook's breathtaking vocals. The lyrics go, "I'm in love, love to me / We got to love it, with you, with you / I'm in love, love to me / We got to love it, with you, with you / One living new sky that you beautiful / When I can fly gotta catch you to me / I'm in love, Love with me / We gotta love it, with you, with you / Love with you."
The original guide to 'Dear My Friend' was recorded by JK ???? @BTS_twtpic.twitter.com/o70o9LWLLv
— K-Charts & Translations⁷ (@charts_k) May 28, 2020
'D-2' features several collaborations including one with BTS leader RM on 'Strange' and American singer Max on 'Burn It'. In an interview released officially released on their Youtube channel, Suga spoke about how he chose to collab with multiple artists on the mixtape. "When I’m composing, when I’m writing the melody, I just know, ‘I want this artist, I want this artist with this style. If I can’t find someone then I just sing it myself," he said.
'D-2' has achieved several records in its first week included 62 No. 1’s on iTunes for its title track 'Daechwita'.
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source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/bts-suga-releases-jungkook-guide-version-of-dear-my-friend-from-his-mixtape-agust-d-2/