Tuesday 30 June 2020

Social media during the time of lockdown

The lockdown hasn’t been easy for anyone but two social media influencers took it upon themselves to engage, inspire and entertain their audience consistent... Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

In a first, Surat records more cases than Ahmedabad

In a first, Surat city and district overtook Ahmedabad city and district in terms of Covid-19 daily cases. Against 197 of Ahmedabad, Surat district recorded 199 cases on Tuesday. Of this, 183 cases were in Surat city while 16 were recorded in the district. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

A young Abhishek Bachchan has a funny reaction to father Amitabh Bachchan's portrait in this throwback photo

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan is quite on a spree of sharing throwback photos that his fans thoroughly enjoy. The actor looked back at the family's trip to Paris in 1985. He also took to Instagram to share a collage of photos, oozing nostalgia.

In the photo, we can see an artist making Big B's portrait on the streets while a young Abhishek Bachchan looks at it quite skeptically. "Paris, Montmartre, 1985 .. the famous bohemian courtyard of artists and painters .. made famous by the legendary artist Toulouse Lautrec .. a film made on him ‘Moulin Rouge’ that starred the incredible actor José Ferrer .. and later Moulin Rouge made by Baz Luhrmann .. and of course “Calcuttaites” would dwell on the famous night club Moulin Rouge , on Prak Steeetour nightly hang out during 1962 - 1968 .. and the band of Louis Banks and singer Pam Crane .. aaahhhh .. those were the days my friend ..Back to the picture .. Abhishek thinking that my portrait being drawn is going all wrong," he captioned it.


Daughter Shweta Bachchan also spotted Abhishek's funny face, and dropped a comment. "Hahahaha look at AB’s face," she wrote.

Workwise, Bachchan was last seen in Shoojit Sircar's Gulabo Sitabo, co-starring Ayushmann Khurrana. He is next a part of Ayan Mukerji's Brahmastra.



source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/a-young-abhishek-bachchan-has-a-funny-reaction-to-father-amitabh-bachchans-portrait-in-this-throwback-photo/

App ban won’t impact your Chinese phones, for now

Your Chinese smartphones — from companies such as Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo and RealMe — will continue to work and not be immediately affected by the govt action against 59 Chinese apps but it may create some fear among buyers who have traditionally opted for these smartphones as they are affordable. With uncertainty around Chinese companies, buyers may opt for “safer bets”. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

Why B’luru’s model to fight virus is unravelling

The Bengaluru model of Covid-19 containment and management — lauded nationally for its focus on contact-tracing and integration of technology — appears to be floundering under the burden of rapidly increasing cases. Daily case spikes in the hundreds have exposed chinks in hospital management, leaving health facilities crowded and needy patients in the lurch. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

CRPF jawan, civilian killed in terrorist attack in J&K

The terrorists opened firing on a naka party of security forces in Sopore, resulting in injuries to three Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawans and a civilian, the officials said. They said the injured were shifted to hospital while the area was cordoned off to track down the assailants. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

IIT-Delhi sees a jump in placement offers

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Govt may soon ban more Chinese apps, websites

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Key points: Rahul interacts with Indian nurses

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Why India celebrates National Doctor's Day

India celebrates July 1 as 'National Doctor's Day' commemorating the iconic and internationally renowned medical practitioner, Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy who served as a physician, a freedom fighter, an educationist and a politician. Dr Roy was made the member of the Royal College of Physicians for his competence in medicine and he also served as the second CM of West Bengal. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

25 Years Of Coolie No 1: Karisma Kapoor shares poster with Govinda, couldn’t stop laughing looking at her outfit

Karisma Kapoor and Govinda starrer Coolie No. 1 clocked 25 years on Tuesday, June 30. The actors shared special posts on their social media accounts to celebrate the occasion.

25 Years Of Coolie No 1: Karisma Kapoor shares poster with Govinda, couldn’t stop laughing looking at her outfit

Karisma Kapoor shared a motion poster of the film featuring Govinda. But, the actress couldn’t stop laughing looking at her outfit. Sharing the poster of the film, Karisma wrote: "My outfit in this pic though," adding a couple of funny emojis.

She further wrote, "Those fun times will live on forever. One of the closest films to my heart, the beginning of our No 1 series. Celebrating #25YearsOfCoolieNo1. Thank you, Govinda, David Dhawan, Vashu Bhagnani for this beautiful journey."

Govinda shared the poster too and wrote, “Duniya mera ghar hai, bus stand mera adda hai, jab mann kare aa jana, Raju mera naam hai ... Aur pyar se log mujhe bulate hain ... Coolie No 1."

Karisma Kapoor and Govinda starred in several movies together including Raja Babu, Saajan Chale Sasural, Haseena Maan Jayegi, Judwaa, and Hero No 1.

25 years later, director David Dhawan is rebooting Coolie No. 1 with Varun Dhawan and Sara Ali Khan. The film was scheduled for May 1 release this year but due to coronavirus outbreak and lockdown, the film has been postponed indefinitely.

ALSO READ: Kareena Kapoor Khan takes the Childhood Challenge by UNICEF, shares a throwback picture with Karisma Kapoor



source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/bollywood-news-25-years-of-coolie-no-1-karisma-kapoor-shares-poster-with-govinda-couldnt-stop-laughing-looking-at-her-outfit/

Nargis Fakhri soaks in the sun in pink bikini while enjoying mud bath

Actor Nargis Fakhri has been spending time in Los Angeles. The actress seems to be in quarantine and has been sharing glimpses on her social media.

Nargis Fakhri soaks in the sun in pink bikini while enjoying mud bath

A day ago, Nargis posted a series of photos with her friend Justin Santos as the two of them enjoyed some mud bath in this quarantine life. The actress was seen sporting pink bikini whilst covered in red clay mud and soaking in the sun. She captioned her photos, “Make sure to detox your life every once in a while. Out with the old & bringing in the new. #redclaymudbath great for detoxing & healing the skin. #vitamind good to feel good and boost that immune system. Had a great day with @tyleraryai & my momma at @glenivy_spa.”

Meanwhile, the actress has removed all the traces of her ex-boyfriend Matt Alonzo including her tattoo. She recently lasered out a tattoo that she had inscribed on her hand. His initials are now gone. The ex-couple had got matching tattoos on May 1, 2018.

Nargis Fakhri soaks in the sun in pink bikini while enjoying mud bath

On the work front, Nargis Fakhri was last seen in the horror thriller, Amavas. It also starred Ali Asgar, Vivian Bhatena, and Navneet Kaur Dhillon and was directed by Bhushan Patel. She will next star in Sanjay Dutt and Rahul Dev starrer Torbaaz. Written and directed by Girish Malik, the film is co-written by Bharti Jankar.

ALSO READ: After serious illness Nargis Fakhri joins racial protests in the US



source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/nargis-fakhri-soaks-sun-pink-bikini-enjoying-mud-bath/

Goats swabbed, isolated after goatherd tests +ve

Forty-seven goats were quarantined on Tuesday after a goatherd tested positive for coronavirus in Godekere village in Tumakuru district, about 127km from Bengaluru. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

Most innovative tech companies in the world

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"Can you create a Salman Khan or a Tiger Shroff on digital platforms?": Exhibitors talk to moviegoers about post lockdown scenario and a lot more!

Since the beginning of the Coronavirus-induced lockdown, there have been multiple webinars and talks between producers and exhibitors on how to take forward the operations in the post-lockdown world. However, none of these tried to find out what the viewers have in their minds and what they desire once the theatres open. Do they have any suggestions or fear?

Can you create a Salman Khan or a Tiger Shroff on digital platforms Exhibitors talk to moviegoers about post lockdown scenario and a lot more!

On Saturday June 6, a unique webinar took place where prominent exhibitor Akshaye Rathi got fellow exhibitors on board and also around 30-40 moviegoers. The latter got a chance to give their suggestions and clear their doubts from the exhibitors themselves over a two-hour video meeting.

By now, the moviegoers are fully aware that once theatres are allowed to resume operations, they will be taking sanitation very seriously. Temperature checks of all moviegoers and staffers, placement of hand sanitizers at regular intervals inside the premises, enforcement of social distancing etc would be adhered to. Hence, very few questions were asked on this aspect, at least initially.

Releasing in cinemas vs releasing on OTT

However, the discussion began majorly while talking about a few films going directly on OTT platforms. Vishek Chauhan, owner of Roopbani Cinema in Bihar, on this issue, made some interesting points, “Christopher Nolan and Quentin Tarantino are very particular about releasing their films in theatres. You might argue that Martin Scorsese’s The Irishman went directly on Netflix. But then, Netflix for the first time, gave a four-week window to theatres. However, AMC, Regal and other big chains of the USA declined this offer. The bottomline is that everyone wants to put their films in cinemas”.

He then narrated an interesting incident, “There was a film called Crazy Rich Asians which was released in 2018. The producers and director of this film had the Warner Bros team sitting in one room and the Netflix executives were seated in another. Now the offer from Netflix was twice the amount from Warner Bros! Yet, the producers of the film chose to partner with Warner Bros for the social impact that the film would create once it hit the theatres.”

Vishek Chauhan argued that when a film goes digital, it doesn’t get wide viewership. He said, “Gulabo Sitabo’s producers are releasing their film on Amazon Prime. Shockingly, half the population doesn’t even know that an Ayushmann Khurrana starrer is releasing! Had it been releasing in theatres, everyone would have known. So, the touch and feel goes away when you stream your film on a digital platform.”

On why theatres are important and detrimental for movie business, Vishek opines, “How would you differentiate between big films and small films if everything starts going digital? Where would you create stars? Can you create a Salman Khan on digital? Similarly, can you create a Tiger Shroff on Amazon Prime or Netflix? Tiger Shroff, Hrithik Roshan, Amitabh Bachchan etc were all created inside movie theatres. The reason Avengers is Avengers is because it does $2.7 billion at the box office and there was mayhem in the first three days to watch the film. Right from an upscale multiplex in New York to my theatre Roopbani cinema in Purnia, Bihar, there was a huge crowd dying to watch Avengers. If you take these aspects away, the whole movie industry shall collapse. All we’ll be left with is web series and web films, devoid of stars.”

Karan, an RJ from Mumbai felt that “the transition is evident”. He told, “When PVR and Inox raised a complaint over release of films on OTT, a large number of netizens began to compare the costing dynamics.” Pointing out the cinema-going experience becoming expensive along with films coming on digital platforms in 8 weeks, he stated, “The turnaround time has reduced and in 2 months, a film is out on digital. So there are lot of audiences who prefer to wait it out for a few months especially for smaller films.” He further said, “The fate of a film is decided the same day or probably a day before by the critics. Films of Shah Rukh and Salman Khan failed because the critics bashed it so badly.”

Can you create a Salman Khan or a Tiger Shroff on digital platforms Exhibitors talk to moviegoers about post lockdown scenario and a lot more!1

The exhibitors, however, didn’t agree with him. Vishek Chauhan immediately pointed out, “Critics bashed Kabir Singh also very badly. Also, Milap’s film Satyameva Jayate, was ridiculed and it was a super-success.” Karan then replied, “Those were exceptions. And I am just pointing out the ground realities. I am connected to my listeners who are mochiwalas and tailors. Probably they have the subscription of Hotstar and other platforms. They tell me that ‘Mirzapur kamaal hai’ and all.” At this Kolkata-based exhibitor-distributor Satadeep Saha jumped in and asked a valid question, “Is it possible for the mass audience to subscribe to all OTT platforms?”

At this point, many admitted that perhaps, a section people are watching the web series on pirated versions, or using the accounts of their friends or families! Vishek Chauhan argued, “People keep telling me that the theatrical window has now reduced in India and abroad. However, the DVD rip files of all films are available by Saturday evening. Practically speaking, the theatrical window was never in place. In fact, I would call this theatrical window ‘The Myth of Sisyphus’!” Satadeep Saha also took an interesting stand and said, “OTT platforms need 365 movies or shows for 365 days and only then, they can run their business. So it’s not even easy for the OTT platform in these competitive times as well. And once theatres open, even they’ll struggle.”

Less box office clashes in post-Covid world?

As the discussion came back to the principle topic, a moviegoer named Kushal made a recommendation, “Every business has started a package system. Maybe you guys can give us a package. Say, that viewers need to pay Rs. 2000 and for the next few months, they can watch unlimited films. Viewers would just need to book their time slot.”

Mohit Maheshwari, another moviegoer who clarified that he’s “not connected to movie business at all” asked, “Clashes are bound to happen. If 2-3 films release on a single day, how would you manage to screen all of them in your single screen? And how do you ensure that you don’t give the smaller film an odd time showcasing?” Akshaye Rathi replied, “Not just cinemas, but production of films too have been shut. So it’s a wrong notion that there will be a flood of movies that will come to cinemas when they open. So a film like Gangubhai Kathiawadi which should have come in September this year will now probably release in summer 2021. Aamir Khan-starrer Laal Singh Chaddha, which was expected in December 2020, will probably come in December 2021 now! Hence, we can assure you that every movie that comes will get great showcasing including the smaller and mid-budget ones. You’ll be able to watch your favourite film at your time of convenience.”

Safety measures to be adopted by theatres

Another moviegoer, Vivek Sharma, stated, “Social distancing is a priority for me. I’d like to keep the seat vacant next to me, even if I am going with my family.” Akshaye reminded, “The thought process we plan to follow is to keep every unit together. So if you come with your family of 4, so all of you would be seated together. One or two seats would be left vacant and then we shall allot the seats to the next person or unit.” Vivek, at this, retorted, “I’ll still stick to my point and keep the seat vacant next to me, even if I am with my family!” Kushal jumped in and said, “How will this idea work on the online booking websites is something that you need to see”. To which Akshaye revealed that work on this is already underway. Rajesh Mishra, CEO, UFO Moviez clarified, “Families would like to sit together but a group of friends might want to maintain social distancing. And cinemas should give that option. I am sure exhibitors won’t have a problem and would oblige with such requests. And anyway, look at airlines, who are selling the middle seats right now and there, you’re much closer to the person next to you.

Amit Dadhich, Co-Founder of Mumbai Subtitles Database and an avid movie watcher, then got a chance to voice his opinion and he said, “You need to welcome patrons to cinemas and not intimidate them. Asking them to wear PPE kits is intimidating. Show slides about safety and ways of maintaining social distancing in the very beginning. But once you start showing general ads and trailers, don’t try to interrupt by putting another Covid-related ad or announcement. That’ll break the moviegoing experience.” All exhibitors found his suggestion welcoming, including Rajesh Sharma, who said, “We’ll put up posters and slides but the ads would be shown before the movie. We would not want to break the momentum at all. People should feel safe and not be scared.”

Need for cinema halls to have active social media pages

This writer then went next and suggested that all single-screen cinemas should have an active Facebook and Twitter page so that viewers can post their complaints. Further, the page should be regularly checked, preferably by the manager or the owner and action should be taken immediately. Vishek Chauhan surprised everyone as he said, “Since the last 6-7 years, I have an active Facebook page of my cinema hall and I encourage audiences to send their complaints and feedback. If they have a complaint against a staffer, I tell them to send me his name or photograph. Believe it or not, I have fired 7 employees till now based on audience complaints. I, in fact, make it a point to address each and every audience issue whether it’s about rude staff, quality of sound and screen not being upto the mark etc. This is something that has helped me build a lot of trust.” Suman Sinha, owner of Regent cinema in Patna, agreed and said, “Most of us are doing it and if some of them aren’t, they should immediately go for it.” Ashutosh Agarwal, who runs Star Cinema in Prayagraj, suggested that exhibitors can tie-up with BookMyShow who can help them in passing on the complaints.

Change in admission price points of cinemas?

Mohit Maheshwri asked a question that’ll be paramount in the mind of viewers – that of pricing and safety. He asked, “Are you guys going to thoroughly disinfect the auditorium after each show? And are you going to increase the ticket price?” Ruban Mathivanan of GK Cinemas, Chennai answered the second question, “We are not going to raise ticket prices. It doesn’t make sense in such times. Instead of focusing on rising prices, we’d like to create a situation wherein the audiences feel safe.”

Pratik Munot of Panchasheel cinema, Nagpur then came next and replied, “I believe there will be a lot of government mandates which will already be putting a lot of burden on the exhibitors. There’ll be enhanced cleaning after every show and possibly, deep cleaning will be undertaken after all the 4 shows of the day are done with. As for fear of the customers, they’ll have to tide over it themselves. If they trust that we are maintaining an appropriate amount of cleanliness, then they’ll visit our properties or else they won’t. Having said that, these are extraordinary times and we’ll have to put in extra effort to gain their trust.”

Can you create a Salman Khan or a Tiger Shroff on digital platforms Exhibitors talk to moviegoers about post lockdown scenario and a lot more!

Exit plan required to avoid the IndiGo fiasco

Karan came in again and said, “I don’t rest my head on the back of my seat in theatres as I am always worried who must have used it before me. Post-lockdown, theatre owners maybe can keep a plastic on the headrest and change it after every show. Also, there has to be proper exit procedure for viewers so that they don’t crowd around at the door. We all saw the viral photo of IndiGo airline wherein people were seen flouting social distancing rule while trying to come out.”

Rajesh Sharma agreed and said, “The ushers will have to ensure that the crowding doesn’t happen. Otherwise, the social distancing rule will go for a toss. At the end of the film, maybe we can put a slide to inform viewers that they need to adhere to social distancing.” Karan also suggested that staff should ask viewers, row-wise, to leave the audi. Vishek found this query pertinent and said, “I think we need to have an exit plan in place which needs to be communicated to the audiences over and over again.”

Policy on latecomers, pre-packed snacks in cinemas post-lockdown

A question was also raised, by Amit Dadhich, as to what should be done if a viewer walks in late? “How will social distancing be followed if the latecomer is sitting in my row and he/she will have to walk past me to reach his/her seat?”, he asked. The exhibitors assured they’ll work on this problem although they did suggest for now that they might ask the person already seated on the seat to get up and then let the latecomer pass. The idea that the moviegoers should not be allowed if they walk in late was dismissed.

Akshaye Rathi also asked viewers whether they’ll be comfortable having fresh food like samosas and pop-corn or would they only prefer pre-packed food for safety reasons. The opinion was mixed. This writer pointed out that if people are already thronging restaurants and food joints, which resumed activities from June 8, and don’t have the apprehension of eating at these places, then they’ll surely be ok with eating fresh snacks in cinemas as well, also reminding that “A cinema experience is incomplete without pop-corn for many viewers”.

Finally, a few others also suggested that whether or not there is a virus scare, washrooms should be kept clean at any cost. In the same regard, viewers requested that one should not cut a crucial dialogue or scene while forcing an interval sequence in Hollywood films!

Conclusion

As it was time to wrap up, Nitin Datar, head of Cinema Owners & Exhibitors Association of India (COEAI), was optimistic and said that patrons would definitely return once cinemas start. He remarked, “In many small towns, the only entertainment venue for families and friends to hang out is the cinema theatre. There are no gardens or museums. Hence, I am expecting a decent turnout once we open the theatres.”

Akshaye Rathi signed off by saying, “We’ll start off by playing old films as new movies won’t release immediately. We don’t know if you guys will be compelled enough to watch these flicks. But yes, we can assure you that we will use this time to ensure that all the security measures are well oiled. And once viewers have the confidence that we exhibitors will take good care of you all and that you don’t walk out with the virus from the cinema, that’s when the big ticket movies will start coming. It won’t take more than 3 to 4 weeks from the day cinemas are allowed to open for us to build that confidence.” He further added, “We operate in Nagpur and Raipur. We’ll make sure that we call the local press on the day of the reopening and we’ll take them through the procedure so that awareness is built in all respects.”

These security measures will also mean viewers will take time in getting in as they get their temperature checked and follow social distancing. Shaji Vishwanathan, Head of the Exhibitors Association of Kerala, had the last word as he requested, “Dear moviegoers, please come on time!”

Also Read: Tiger Shroff’s Baaghi 3 may not re-release in theatres; will release now on digital platform



source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/can-create-salman-khan-tiger-shroff-digital-platforms-exhibitors-talk-moviegoers-post-lockdown-scenario-lot/

Top10: How bad did Covid situation get in June?

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Ban China-backed news apps, Indian publishers tell govt

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Rs 196cr cyber safety centre at IIT-Kanpur

At a time when the threat of cyberattacks is growing, including those from China, the Union government has approved Rs 196 crore for a national technical centre at IIT Kanpur to counter such threats. Besides, in a first for the country, the institute will also roll out an MTech degree in cyber security from the next year. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

Pak’s ‘use & throw’ policy renders Geelani irrelevant

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Indian woman wins Commonwealth short story prize

A woman from Ranchi currently studying in the US has won £5,000 after her tale about a Hindu girl falling in love with a Muslim boy beat more than 5,000 entries from 49 countries to win the 2020 Commonwealth Short Story Prize. Kritika Pandey, 29, was announced as the winner for "The Great Indian Tee and Snakes" by Ghanaian writer and editor Nii Ayikwei. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

Checks putting APIs in ‘unsterile state’: Drug companies

Drug makers are worried about quality of their products getting impacted amid persistent delay in clearance of consignments from China at various ports and airports in India. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

India gets its wettest June in 12 years

India experienced its wettest month of June in 12 years with 18% above-normal rainfall on the back of timely monsoon onset and its swift advance across the country. Central India, as well as east and northeast, have received the heaviest showers. India received 196.2mm of rain during the month, highest since 2008, when 202mm was recorded during the month, as per IMD. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

Visa processing for UK to resume from July 6

Visa processing for United Kingdom will resume in India next Monday (July 6) in a phased manner. According to VFS Global, UK visa application centres in Delhi, south Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru (Global Tech Park), Chandigarh, Cochin, Hyderabad, Jalandhar, Kolkata and Pune will open from July 6. Chennai centre reopening that day is subject to local lockdown conditions. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

Monday 29 June 2020

Kerala SSLC result 2020 live: Results today at 2 pm

The Kerala SSLC results will be made accessible on the cloud-based portal of KITE — results.kite.kerala.gov.in. The results will also be available on the following websites — keralaresults.nic.in, kerala.gov.in, prd.kerala.gov.in. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

2020 Honda City set to reclaim segment top spot?

The 5th generation Honda City is nothing short of style statement. On top of that, engine and comfort have been taken to the next level. Take a look at the first drive review: Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

PM Narendra Modi to address nation at 4pm today

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Farhan Akhtar responds to Abhay Deol’s claim of being called supporting actor in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara

Ever since the nepotism controversy erupted again, another issue that was majorly discussed is the lobbying that leads to grabbing awards. Actor Abhay Deol pointed it out that during Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, he and Farhan Akhtar were demoted to supporting cast during the award ceremonies whereas Hrithik Roshan was addressed as the lead actor.

Farhan Akhtar responds to Abhay Deol’s claim of being called supporting actor in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara

In an Instagram post, he wrote, “I would like to mention that almost all the award functions demoted me and Farhan from main leads, and nominated us as ‘supporting actors’. Hrithik and Katrina were nominated as ‘actors in a leading role’. So by the industry’s own logic, this was a film about a man and a woman falling in love, with the man supported by his friends for whatever decisions he takes.”

“There are many covert and overt ways in which people in the industry lobby against you. In this case, it was shamelessly overt. I of course boycotted the awards but Farhan was ok with it,” he added.

Farhan Akhtar reacted to the post by stating that external validation doesn’t always satisfy anyone.  At the India Today e-Conclave, the actor said, “You are constantly hearing about some rat race and everybody is fighting each other to some kind of spot which does not exist. I mean the fact is you have to believe in yourself, you have to work sincerely, work hard, how many magazine covers you will do, whether you came on the front page of a magazine, or the front page of a newspaper.”

“If that is your larger interest, I really feel that you are in the wrong profession. You’re not here for that. Have you come here to be an actor, director, singer, music composer, or have you come here to be a reality star? Have you come here to be just, I don’t know, a star?” he added.

Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara starred Hrithik Roshan, Farhan Akhtar, Abhay Deol, Katrina Kaif, Kalki Koechlin and Naseeruddin Shah. It was directed by Zoya Akhtar.

ALSO READ: Abhay Deol shares the poster of Shanghai, says it’s extremely relevant in today’s time



source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/farhan-akhtar-responds-abhay-deols-claim-called-supporting-actor-zindagi-na-milegi-dobara/

Asha Negi on Pavitra Rishta co-actor Sushant Singh Rajput’s demise, “Can a person not grieve in private?”

Asha Negi, who played the role of Sushant Singh Rajput’s daughter on the show, recently posted a video about Pavitra Rishta being available on the channel’s OTT platform. She thanked everyone for showering love on her when she played the role of Poorvi and it did not sit well with one of the fans that she did not mention Sushant Singh Rajput. The actor died by suicide two weeks ago and needless to say, it left the television industry shook to the very core.

Asha Negi on Pavitra Rishta co-actor Sushant Singh Rajput’s demise, “Can a person not grieve in private”

Asha thanked everyone by captioning her video as, “It was a life-changing experience to be a part of #pavitrarishta. Working with the best cast and crew, this show was bound to be the no. 1 show at the time..I received a lot of love from the fans as Poorvi and still cherish my days working with the team”. A fan commented, “You never spoke or mentioned anything for Sushant”, to which Asha gave a befitting reply by saying that, “Is it that important to follow the trend and mention about how you feel on social media? Can a person not grieve in private?”

Take a look at the video that she posted.

Also Read: This video of Sushant Singh Rajput crooning a devotional song will mesmerize you

 



source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/asha-negi-pavitra-rishta-co-actor-sushant-singh-rajputs-demise-can-person-not-grieve-private/

Katy Perry hit rock bottom after breaking up with Orlando Bloom in 2017

Actor Orlando Bloom and singer Katy Perry will soon be welcoming their first child together. As the couple is ready to enter a new phase in their lives, their marriage has been postponed amid coronavirus pandemic. Recently, the singer revealed she had hit rock bottom after splitting with Bloom briefly in 2017.

Katy Perry contemplated suicide after breaking up with Orlando Bloom in 2017

In a new interview with SiriusXM's CBC Radio One, Katy said, "My career was on this trajectory when it was going up, up, and up, and then I had the smallest shift, not that huge from an outside perspective. But for me it was seismic."

"I had broken up with my boyfriend, who is now my baby daddy-to-be and then I was excited about flying high off the next record," she shared. "But the validation did not make me high, and so I just crashed."

"Gratitude is probably the thing that saved my life because if I did not find that I would have wallowed in my own sadness and probably just jumped," she further said. "But I found the ways to be grateful. If it gets really, really hard I walk around and say, 'I am grateful, I am grateful!' even though I am in a s— mood."

Katy said that she had to turn to her faith in order to regain her happiness. "It was so important for me to be broken so that I could find my wholeness in a whole different way," she said. "And be more dimensional than just living my life like a thirsty pop star all the time."

Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom announced in May that they are expecting a daughter.

ALSO READ: Katy Perry expecting first child with Orlando Bloom, announces pregnancy via Never Worn White music video



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Taj Hotel receives bomb threat call from Pakistan

Security tightened outside two Taj hotels in Mumbai on Tuesday after a call was received on an intervening night threatening to blow up the hotels with bombs. The call was traced to Karachi, Pakistan said Mumbai police, with the caller identifying as a member of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

Bennett University launches BA Liberal Arts

Indian students need not go to western countries to do a programme in Liberal Arts. They now have one avenue to do a Liberal Arts programme in India without... Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

When Kartik Aaryan asked Sagarika Ghatge to convey his ‘Hi’ to Shah Rukh Khan

All of us know that Kartik Aaryan is a complete outsider in the industry and has had his journey into showbiz filled with ups and downs. But leaving his challenges in the past, the actor always manages to make us smile with his posts and crazy antics. Today Kartik Aaryan takes us back to the time when he was an aspiring actor and had a fan moment spotting Chak De India star Sagarika Ghatge and recounts a sweet moment. With this click from 2008, Kartik makes us realize his inspiring journey at the movies. Right from being a struggling actor and waiting outside Mannat and other public places to meet his favourite stars to now being the biggest star in the country. Indeed an inspirational journey.

When Kartik Aaryan asked Sagarika Ghatge to convey his ‘Hi’ to Shah Rukh Khan

Kartik Aaryan who has made it in the industry without any Godfather and any connections was an absolute outsider when he first came to Mumbai. The actor relives one of the incidents on social media when he had big dreams in his eyes and really wanted to meet his idol Shah Rukh Khan and was taking baby steps in the industry. He has shared a picture with Sagarika which he has clicked back in 2008 during the Mumbai Marathon. In the click, the actor is seen in a scrawny avatar and smiling ear to ear as he poses with the actress. What’s more, as the actor recounts the time meeting her and having a fanboy moment, he also mentions how the actor had made a special request to her to say hi to Shah Rukh Khan. Sharing the click, his caption reads, ‘2008. Mumbai Marathon. I jumped barricades to take a pic with @sagarikaghatge n also told her “Shah rukh Khan ko mera Hi bolna.” @iamsrk sir did she convey?’ This is truly hilarious as he asks King Khan to refresh his memory. Sagarika even shared the click on her Instagram story and captioned it correctly saying, ‘And What a great marathon you are having since you jumped the barricade,” we couldn’t agree more. Now we wonder what the superstar will have to say.

Kartik Aaryan is the only actor who is so honest and candid always and never puts on a fake-face even on social media. The heartthrob is never ashamed to share glimpses from his struggling days and relive memories when he was just a struggling actor and admired the stars and the show business. Well, his passion for acting and his hard work surely made him reach the pedestal. He made sure he worked hard towards his dream and even after tasting success with his films, he continues to strive to reach wider audience and never gives up on his hard work and dedication.

Also Read: Kartik Aaryan hits it out of the park with his latest episode of Koki Poochega with frontliner Barkha Dutt

 



source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/kartik-aaryan-asked-sagarika-ghatge-convey-hi-shah-rukh-khan/

Shivangi Joshi and Mohsin Khan thank the team of Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai for ensuring sanitization and safety on sets

With the shows finally resuming their shoots after three long months, the production houses have been asked to ensure complete safety of the cast and crew present on the set. With a limited number of people present on the set, the celebrities are back to their workplaces and are ecstatic to see their colleagues after so long. Along with a few other shows, Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai has started shooting, too.

Shivangi Joshi and Mohsin Khan thank the team of Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai for ensuring sanitization and safety on sets

The show is likely to air fresh episodes from July 13, giving the team adequate time to make a bank of episodes. In a self-shot video, the leads of Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, Shivangi Joshi and Mohsin Khan have expressed ardent gratitude to the production house for maintaining safety and precautionary measures on sets. According to the new guidelines, the celebs will have to ensure social distancing in the frame as well and the makers are ensuring timely sanitization on sets.

Take a look at both their videos posted by their production house, Directors Kut.

Also Read: Shivangi Joshi is overwhelmed as her close friends surprise her on her birthday



source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/shivangi-joshi-mohsin-khan-thank-team-yeh-rishta-kya-kehlata-hai-ensuring-sanitization-safety-sets/

TikTok: In process of complying with govt order

TikTok on Tuesday said it is in the process of complying with the government's order on blocking of the app, and asserted that it has not shared information of Indian users with any foreign government, including that of China. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

Ranveer Singh’s '83' to have a Christmas release

According to the announcement, Rohit Shetty’s ‘Sooryavanshi’ starring Akshay Kumar and Katrine Kaif will have a diwali release while Kabir Khan’s ‘’83’ starring Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone has opted for a Christmas release this year. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

'Pageants empowered me to find my voice'

Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

When Bhuvneshwar dismissed Sachin for a duck

"It was a fortunate moment for me to get him out. I really cannot explain it in words. These are the kind of moments which you can just feel and cannot explain," Bhuvneshwar Kumar said while recalling the moment when he got Sachin Tendulkar out for his first duck in first-class cricket back in 2009. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

Times Top10: India enters Unlock 2.0 mode

Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

Chinese apps ban: Other options that you can use

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Google celebrates LGBTQ activist Marsha P Johnson

Google Doodle on Tuesday celebrated the widely popular US-based LGBTQ+ activist, performer, and self-identified drag queen Marsha P. Johnson, bidding farewell to the Pride month. On June 30 2019, Marsha was posthumously honoured as a grand marshal of the New York City Pride March. Johnson is credited as one of the key leaders of the 1969 Stonewall uprising. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

Govt blocks 59 Chinese Apps, cites risk to sovereignty

The government on Monday “blocked” as many as 59 Chinese Apps, including TikTok, UC Browser, WeChat, Shareit and CamScanner, for “engaging in activities which are prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of state and public order”. The move against the “malicious Apps" came after several complaints of stealing of user data. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

Vizag: 2 dead, 4 fall sick after gas leak at plant

Two workers died and four others were hospitalised following benzimidazole gas leakage from the Sainor Life Sciences pharma company at Jawaharlal Nehru Pharma City (JNPC), Parawada in Visakhapatnam in the wee hours of Tuesday. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

KK Venugopal re-appointed as Attorney General for 1 yr

KK Venugopal has been re-appointed as Attorney General of India for a period of one year. ​​"KK Venugopal, Senior Advocate as Attorney General for India for a period of one year with effect from July 1," read the notification. It further read that Tushar Mehta has been re-appointed as the Solicitor General for a period of 3 years or until further orders. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

Govt may license import of ACs, TVs to check shipments

The government is looking to license the import of 10-12 items, including air conditioners and several of its components, and parts of television sets as it discourages the entry of foreign goods into the country, especially those from China. ​​While work on licensing of products had started a few months ago, with agarbatti and tyres being among the initial set of items along with palm oil, the list has expanded in recent weeks as tension on the Ladakh border escalated, government sources said. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

HRD ministry wants Rs 2,300cr more for edu sector

In the backdrop of Covid-19, the HRD ministry projected a requirement of Rs 2,306.4 crore for the development of online courses/ programmes over five years. The ministry also presented a requirement of Rs 55,840 crore for providing ICT facilities to 3.10 lakh government schools. The government also proposed providing digital devices to 40% of the students in higher education. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

Maha, Tamil Nadu extend lockdown till July 31

Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu governments on Monday extended the lockdown till July 31 to stop the surge of Covid-19 cases — with stricter norms in the Mumbai and Chennai regions. The Karnataka government has also indicated that it will bring back from July 7 harsher measures such as banning the entry and exit of people from high-risk districts Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

Sunday 28 June 2020

Greater Hyd to shut for 15 days to curb Covid

The state government on Sunday said it will reimpose lockdown in greater Hyderabad if needed for at least 15 days in a bid to contain the rapid spread of coronavirus. A decision on the dates will be taken soon. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

11-year-old girl booked for sacrilege in Punjab

The Sangrur police have booked an 11-year-old girl for sacrilege after some pages of Shri Guru Granth Sahib were found torn inside a Rampura village gurdwara in Sangrur district on Saturday evening. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

Flood pictures expose the grim situation in Assam

Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

Rahul urges people to 'Speak Up Against Fuel Hike'

"The Central government has left people on their own during coronavirus pandemic and China situation. The Centre is looting people by increasing fuel prices for consecutive 21 days. Let us raise our voices to compel the government to withdraw increased prices. Post videos of people perturbed with fuel prices hike on your social media handles," says the voiceover in the video. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

UP: Stalker shoots dead 19-yr-old, her father

Just two days before her wedding, a 19-year-old Dalit woman and her father were shot dead allegedly by a spurned youth and his friends in Meerut on Saturday. The woman’s brother was also injured in the incident. The victims have been identified as Anchal and her father Rajkumar. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

Morena Baccarin not yet approached for Ryan Reynolds starrer Deadpool 3

Actor Ryan Reynolds will return to Deadpool 3 as the film is in the scripting stage. But, the fate of the film remains uncertain ever since Fox was acquired by Disney. The actor has met with Marvel, and writers Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick, and the film will remain R-Rated. Meanwhile, it has been learnt that Morena Baccarin, who played Vanessa Carlysle, is yet to be approached for the third installment.

Morena Baccarin not yet approached for Ryan Reynolds starrer Deadpool 3

In a recent interview on PeopleTV's Couch Surfing show, Baccarin said, "I have no idea. Apparently, they're still writing it. I genuinely don't know. I have not been asked or approached. There's been no conversations yet, so I'm waiting with bated breath."

"As big as possible. I mean, he [Reynolds] will always be the lead, but I would love to be right by his side," she further said.

In the comics, Vanessa Carlysle was also a mutant named Copycat. But that has not been tackled in the Deadpool movies yet.

Though Deadpool 3 wasn't announced in Marvel Phase 4 lineup, Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige has plans to take it forward in the MCU.

ALSO READ: Ryan Reynolds crashes original X-Men's virtual reunion with Hugh Jackman, Halle Berry, Patrick Stewart and Famke Jansson



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LAC stand-off: India, Japan conduct naval exercise amid China row

At a time when India and China are locked in a major troop confrontation in eastern Ladakh, Indian and Japanese warships held a small exercise towards the Malacca Strait in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) on Saturday. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

Covid: India's tally over 5.48 lakh, toll at 16,475

A single-day spike of 19,459 Covid-19 cases took India's tally to 5,48,318 on Monday, while the death toll climbed to 16,475 with 380 new fatalities, according to the Union health ministry data. This is the sixth consecutive day that coronavirus infections have increased by more than 15,000. The country has seen a surge of 3,57,783 infections from June 1 till date. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

Nude pics, video chats: SOPs for sex workers

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'Dhoni an instant advisor, Virat great motivator'

India’s Chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav spoke with Timesofindia.com in an exclusive interview and talked about the role he feels Kohli is playing in grooming youngsters, including him, in the team. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

WI players to wear 'Black Lives Matter' logo in Eng

West Indies skipper Jason Holder, who has voiced his support to the cause that has once again come to the forefront after the killing of American George Floyd, said in a statement on Sunday: "We believe we have a duty to show solidarity and also to help raise awareness." Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

Priyanka honors frontline woman at ‘Variety’s Awards’

Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2hJjhqE

The true story behind 'Kuch Na Kaho' from 1942: A Love Story

If Rahul Dev Burman’s swan song 'Kuch na kaho, kuch bhi na kaho' is remembered so vividly to this day, it has more to do with the staying power of the limitlessly talented composer rather than any intrinsic merit of the song’s parent film 1942: A Love Story. Of the two versions of the songs sung by Lata Mangeshkar and Kumar Sanu, there was a bit of controversy over the female version, sung to immortality by Lataji.

The true story behind 'Kuch Na Kaho' from 1942: A Love Story

The song had already been recorded in Kavita Krishnamurthy’s voice when it was done again by Lataji. Was Lataji aware of the song’s history? Absolutely not. Hear what she has to say. “I only knew what Pancham (R D Burman) told me. He rang me up and said, ‘Didi there‘s one final song in 1942: A Love Story which (director) Vidhu Vinod Chopra is very keen that you sing. Will you do it?’ Pancham and I shared a very warm and close relationship. He confided all his joys and sorrow in me. I said of course I’d sing the song for him. Then I left for my concerts in the US. When I returned Pancham was gone.”

The song was recorded posthumously by Vidhu Vinod Chopra and his team.

A musician who was present at the recording remembers, “Vinod Chopra wanted that one song to be sung by Lata Didi. He had consulted Panchamda about it and Panchamda was all for it. He asked Lata Didi to sing 'Kuch na kaho'. But before the song could be recorded Panchamda passed away. We recorded the song without Panchamda. We were so excited. History was being made. I remember Vinodji kept asking Lata Didi to do one more take. Finally Didi turned around and told him, ‘Ab rehne dijiye. Ho gaya.’ And she walked off.

As for Kavita Krishnamurthy, it is sad to see her raking up the old controversy on R D Burman’s birth anniversary when she knows what the truth is.

I remember meeting Kavita many years ago when she had brought up the 'Kuch na kaho' controversy. She had told me, ‘With due respects to Lataji, my version of the song was something else.’

With due respects to Kavita, I’ve heard both version and there is no comparison.

Also Read: Anil Kapoor had initially rejected 1942: A Love Story; had suggested Aamir Khan and Bobby Deol for the role



source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/true-story-behind-kuch-na-kaho-1942-love-story/

Sushant Singh Rajput's Kai Po Che and PK audition reels shared by Mukesh Chhabra

Actor Sushant Singh Rajput's untimely passing has left the nation in shock. As family, friends, and fans continue to remember him, Mukesh Chhabra recalled recently how he never failed audition.

Sushant Singh Rajput's Kai Po Che and PK audition reels shared by Mukesh Chhabra

Casting director Mukesh, who has turned director with Dil Bechara, shared clips from Sushant Singh Rajput's audition reels from the films Kai Po Che and PK. “Sushant Singh Rajput A boy who never failed in any auditions, touched millions of hearts with his talent on screen and decided to stay forever in our hearts... Here’s a tribute from Team MCCC to #SushantSinghRajput and his journey, which will be forever cherished and celebrated Rest in Love #SushantSinghRajput,” Mukesh captioned his post.

The video also consists of Sushant dancing with Dil Bechara co-star Subbalakshmi and other clips as well.

In his tribute earlier, Mukesh Chhabra had written, "Sushant was like a brother to me, it is so unfortunate and heartbreaking and I cannot even put it down in words. Sushant was an introvert but he was really intelligent and talented beyond words. The industry has lost a gem, an irreplaceable gem. Deeply saddened and shocked. I still can’t believe it. Our endless conversations have come to an abrupt end. I hope you are in a better place my brother, will always miss you and love you. Mera bhai."

Mukesh Chhabra has directed Dil Bechara which happens to be Sushant Singh Rajput's last film. It will see direct release on Disney+ Hotstar in July. The film stars Sanjana Sanghi in the lead role.

ALSO READ: Nana Patekar visits Sushant Singh Rajput's Patna home to meet his family



source https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/sushant-singh-rajputs-kai-po-che-pk-audition-reels-shared-mukesh-chhabra/

Nana Patekar visits Sushant Singh Rajput's Patna home to meet his family

Ever since Sushant Singh Rajput tragically passed away, he is being remembered through his films, his time spent with his friends and family. The actor's Patna home, where his family resides, is being visited by several dignitaries and celebrities in order to pay tribute.

Nana Patekar visits Sushant Singh Rajput's Patna home to meet his family

Veteran actor Nana Patekar, who was in Bihar, paid a visit to Sushant's house. He laid flowers near his photo frame and was seen having a conversation with his father, Krishna Kumar Singh.

Nana Patekar visits Sushant Singh Rajput's Patna home to meet his family

Sushant's father recently held a prayer meet where Bhojpuri actors Manoj Tiwari and Akshara Singh paid a visit to his house to meet his family.

Nana Patekar visits Sushant Singh Rajput's Patna home to meet his family

In his death case, more than 27 people's statements have been recorded. Sushant Singh Rajput died on June 14 by suicide. The actor's last rites were performed on June 15 at Pawan Hans Crematorium. His ashes were immersed on June 18 in Ganga.

 

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Actor #NanaPatekar visited #SushantSinghRajput's home in Patna to offer his condolences to the family ???? (courtesy @bihar_se_hai)

A post shared by Bollywood Hungama???? (@realbollywoodhungama) on

 

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In memory of Sushant ???? #NanaPatekar #RIPSushantSinghRajput #SushantSinghRajput

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ALSO READ: WATCH: Sandip Ssingh recalls how media personnel threw mics in his car after he exited the crematorium post Sushant Singh Rajput’s last rites



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