Bhumika Chawla continues to rock

 

Bhumika Chawla was recently seen in Telugu-film Idhe Maa Katha, which revolved around four strangers who go on a journey to discover themselves. The actress, who has carved a niche for herself in the South with films like Yuvakudu, Okkadu, Simhadri, Missamma, Naa Autograph, Anasuya , Middle Class Abbayi, Bhramaram , Sillunu Oru Kaadhal to name a few, says be it any industry, as an actress she is always hungry for more work. However, she would like to continue to do different roles because for her repetition is the other word for stagnation. She said, "The audiences also get bored watching an actor do the same thing again and again. As an artist, an actor always craves to explore new and interesting roles. I am no different." She is best remembered for film  Tere Naam opposite Salman Khan.

Happy Halloween: Celebs on what character or person they would choose to dress up as and why

 
Halloween is here and everyone is all geared up to observe the day stepping out for trick or treat wearing scary costumes and also party with friends.  It is the day when the dead, including the saints and martyrs, are remembered. The occasion is also being celebrated in India with much fervour. Celebrities sound excited talking about their plans. We ask them what character or person they would choose to dress up as and why this Halloween:
 
Prateik Chaudhary
There are many characters that I am a fan of and would love to dress up as. But if I have to choose one now, then definitely I would like to be a vampire, because I already have sharp canine teeth, so I don’t have to dress up much. (Laughs) But yes, the major reason for dressing up like a vampire is that I am a fan of Ian Somerhalder, who plays the character of Damon Salvatore in Vampire Diaries, which really inspires me as an actor. I am also a Twilight fan.
 
Anjali Phougat
I would love to create a Halloween look of the gothic goddess because it’s mesmerizing and gorgeous, and there is the scope of adding drama and showing off intricate detailing of my designs. I recently created my version of it and had an amazing Halloween photoshoot with USA based leading fashion photographer Irfan. It will soon be featured in a USA based magazine cover as a Halloween look sneak peek.
 
Ridhiema Tiwari
If I were to attend a Halloween party, I would choose to be dressed as Harley Quinn. Harley Quinn is a character appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. Though at first, she seems sweet, giddy, and girlish, that's just one side of Harley's personality. She's also vicious, violent, and a fierce fighter. There's little rhyme or reason to Harley's moods, which makes her impossible to predict. But above all, Harley strives to enjoy life. And I love the elements of her personality.
 
Eijaz Khan
I think one of the most intense and scary characters is Hannibal Lecter from the film The Silence of the Lambs. So, I will probably dress up like Hannibal Lecter in jail for Halloween this year.

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Famous Dancer & TV Show Host Raghav Juyal as the entertaining Host on Dance+ Season 6

 Tell us about your journey with the Dance+ Team / Unit?

This journey began exactly six years ago and it's been an amazing journey, so to speak. Our show is one of a kind. It's all real and unscripted. It's organic and that immensely helps the audience to build a connection with us which is our ultimate goal. Me, Shakti, Salman, Puneet and Remo Sir have been friends for quite a while now so it is almost like home to be on the sets of the show. Given how much fun we have, it doesn't at all feel like work. 

 

How excited are you to present Season 6 to the viewers on TV?

I am tremendously excited, especially to shoot the show and present it to our viewers. We know for a fact that the audiences wait for it to go on air as in a very short span of time the show has managed to gain a lot of fan following. I've also come across people making reels for it so yes, I am very excited for it to commence.

 

Tell us something about your association with Star Plus?

Star Plus has made me an anchoring star. I've begun my anchoring career with Star Plus itself. The thing I love the most about Star Plus is that they are very gender inclusive when it comes to ideas, anything that happens on the sets and for all kinds of people in general.

 

 What is the one thing which Season 6 contestants will bring alive for the audience?

Our contestants this time are all set to present an extremely lively show for you. It's an uniquely talented bunch. They are all star performers and like we began our journey a few years down the line, this is their queue to begin and shine in the industry.

  

How is the team managing to shoot a reality show amid a pandemic?

Everything is being managed with keeping all the safety measures in mind. Most of us are doubly vaccinated. The world is getting used to the new normal and being a part of it, so are we.

 

You are a source of inspiration to many youth of this country, who is your source of inspiration during such tough times (pandemic)?

My inspiration was life. I want to be and feel alive for as long as I can. At the end of time, if there's nothing, I'll atleast have my life to hold on to. That's my inspiration.

 

What is the definition of dance according to you?

Dance is serenity. Of course it's all about movement and energy but if you are able to recognize the calm within the dancing, then you are a brilliant dancer. I personally adore such artists. It's about staying connected to the body and to ‘feel’. That is the definition of dance to me.

  

Which is that one dance form you wish to learn in the near future?

I wish to learn contemporary dance and old school dancing.

  

Name one contestant from Season 6 with whom you wish to work in the near future?

Every contestant has something unique to put into the mix but I'm personally very fond of Dhananjay and would love to work with I'm in the future. And Rohan I haven't named as I already work alongside him.

 

What else do you see yourself doing next?

I am working on an Excel film written by Faran Akhtar and directed called Yudra. I am working with actors Ranvir Shorey and Sanjay Mishra on another film called hasal. So yes, I am gearing up to bring you two films at the moment.  

 

What is the one thing you want to do once the Lockdown is lifted fully in the country?

I mean we are already kind of back on track with the shoots and the travelling bit but, I long to roam without wearing a mask sometime soon.

 

Your take on your Super Judge and Captains of the show (Remo Sir and Captains – Salman, Shakti & Punit)

The Super Jude as well as all the Captains on the show are all amazing people. It's a show where beginning from the host, to the captains, everybody can dance and I personally love that about the show. Speaking of Remo Sir, I'd like to say that he is an extremely sweet human being. Salman bhai rightly counts as one of the most amazing people I've met in my entire life. I have no words to describe how nice Shakti is and last but not the least, Puneet bhai I consider as my brother from another mother. They are all extremely close to my heart and we are all very thrilled to bring our entertainment filled show into your lives, yet again so, stay tuned for the joyride we are about to take you on.

 

 

Tune into ‘Star Plus’ from ‘31st October’ every ‘Sunday’ at ‘8 pm’ to get grooving with ‘Dance+ Season 6’

Five reasons why you must watch 'Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai' Trilogy

t's time for a new generation to take the story forward in Rajan Shahi's "Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai". Though it was difficult for the audience to bid adieu to their favourite Kartik and Naira/Sirat, the revelation of the new cast has definitely raised the audience's curiosity. If you are already watching the show, love from us, and if you are not, then here are five reasons why you must watch the show. Read on: 

Fresh cast: The new season revolves around two families - the Goenkas and the Birlas. While the audience is already familiar with the Goenkas, they will see Pranali Rathod as Akshara, Karishma Sawant as Aarohi, Mayank Arora as Kairav and Sharan Anandani as Vansh. The new Birla family has actors like Harshad Chopda, Ami Trivedi, Ashish Nayyar,  Pragati Mehra, Vinay Jain, Neeraj Goswami, and Niharika Choksi, to name a few. The new cast is like a breath of fresh air and the audience is surely looking forward to how the story unfolds with the new generation. 

Love triangle: Well, from the promos that went on-air in the beginning it is quite clear that Aarohi is in love with Harshad's character Abhimanyu, while Abhimanyu is in love with Akshara and Akshara also loves Abhimanyu. And from the previous episodes it is evident that Akshara can go to any extent for her sister, so it will be interesting to see who will make the ultimate sacrifice and how will this love triangle unravel. 

It's all about loving your family: From the very first day when the show went on-air in 2009, it has been about family and relationships. Though there is always a romantic angle to the show, it has never deviated from the basics which is loving your family. Having said that, the show has always taught the audience that one should always do what's right even if it means going against the family at times because family will always understand why you did what you did. 

It's not a show, it's an institution: The show has managed to keep the audience hooked for the past twelve years with its gripping storyline. From kids to affairs, second marriage, and family crisis, the show has dealt with every aspect of an Indian household.  

Rajan Shahi's magical touch: The man behind the show is Rajan Shahi, who is producing the show under his banner Director's Kut Productions. He is called the "king of relationships" of the small screen and the past twelve years of the show is proof of that.

Vinay Jain: There is raw, passionate quality to my YRKKH character

 Actor Vinay Jain says that there is a raw and passionate quality to his character, Harsh Vardhan Birla, in the show Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai (YRKKH).

"It feels great to be part of a super successful, long-running show like YRKKH. Also, I feel a sense of responsibility towards those who have been avidly watching the show for so many years now," he said.

Talking about his character, he shared, "I play the role of Harsh Vardhan Birla who handles the entire financial and administrative aspects of running the hospital business of the Birla family.

Harsh Vardhan Birla has volatile relationships within the family, especially with his wife and son."

"There is a raw, passionate and unpredictable quality to Harsh Vardhan Birla which attracted me to this character," he added.

Though he empathizes with the motivations of this character, he doesn't personally subscribe to his ways and means.

The show is produced by Rajan Shahi of Directors Kut Production.

"Rajan Shahi and I go back a long way. We have done a number of memorable projects together, at times when he was active as a director too. This project is a happy and much-awaited reunion with him," said Vinay.

According to him, content is ace, king, queen and jack. "With so much of viewing material available today across channels and platforms unless what you have to offer is engaging, you ain't gonna get any eyeballs," he said.

The show symbolizes human values and relationships, and Rajan Shahi is known for his crisp storytelling. "Yes, that is why I am excited to be a part of this show. Intricate relationships shown interestingly never fail to touch the hearts of the audience. We will carry on the YRKKH legacy through this season also," he said.

He feels that a love triangle brings with it dimensions which a straightforward romance may not inherently have. "Moreover, it pulls in all the peripheral characters also adding intriguing layers to the storytelling. We will see a lot of that in this season," he said.

Commenting on the title Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, he said, "It conveys to me the immense potential and possibilities that reside in every relationship. It also reminds me of the transient and ever-changing nature of relationships and therefore, the need to work on building and strengthening them."

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Pragati Mehra: Being part of an iconic show like Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai is always a privilege

 Rajan Shahi’s Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai (YRKKH) has taken a leap and many new characters have been introduced. Pragati Mehra, who plays the role of Dr Mahima Birla, in the daily soap, expresses being content to be a part of such a show that has been entertaining audiences since 2009.

“Joining an iconic show is always a privilege. The legacy is huge and it's humbling to be a part of the new set of characters that shall take it forward. I would not like to reveal the complexities and charisma of my character. All I can say is that she is a working professional and a very strong woman,” she says.
Talking about what made her say yes to the role, she adds, “In all Honesty TV storylines and character graphs get altered on a daily basis as per the audiences’ reaction to storytelling and their feedback. I try to abstain from being too attached to the character narrated as then at times it may lead to disappointments like ‘Arre yeh toh nahi sunaya tha’. Having said that, what attracted me most was the fact that it's a show with 14 years of legacy! Audience surely loves what has been narrated all these years and I would like to keep entertaining them. The story, performance and presentation are the reasons why this show is successful.”

 
Pragati also feels that it is not essential to relate to a character to play it well. “Why should an actor even relate to a character? One can’t possibly have gone through all the experiences that the character has! An actor should be able to slip into the world of the character and feel whatever they can but not necessarily relate to it. To begin with I have never been married or had children of my own nor have I adopted, so there is never going to be any relatability with my personal experiences, but there is relatability with the world of character is possible. I particularly remember an incident (from another show), where my character was to be slapped by her husband. Now as a person I was unable to relate to it as the act is completely wrong. It took me a while to stop relating to the character and just play it as it is,” she explains.
 
Having worked with Rajan Shahi earlier for Saath Phere, Bidaai, the actor knows how things work here. “I have known the whole team since 2007! Romesh Karla, Vivek Jain, Arif Shaikh, we go a long way. Though I did not get an opportunity to work with them all these years, we have been in touch. And this time when Rajan ji called from overseas to narrate the character, I was not going to let the opportunity go,” she says adding that along with working with her old team, content is the other thing that got her interested in the role.

“I have said it earlier and said it again. The YRKKH team knows perfectly well what they are narrating and the audience is loving it. Anything narrated with human emotions intact is interesting. The title of YRKKH encompasses all relations! It can be used as an affirmation and also a question. Here it defines family bonds, love, friendships, business partnership, and above all our relationship with our audiences too,” she signs off.

Farman Haider enjoys celebrating Diwali with friends, family: Actual fun of the festival is sound of firecrackers, children laughing, and lights all around

 Diwali is around the corner and people are looking forward to celebrating the festival of lights. Farman Haidar, aka Samar of Yash and Mamta Patnaik's Rakshabandhan… Rasal Apne Bhai Ki Dhal, loves this auspicious occasion.  “I love to celebrate this festival with my childhood friends, but for the last two years, I haven’t seen them as I was too busy shooting. This time I am trying to take some time out. I also enjoy spending time with family during this time. I think the actual fun of the festival is the sounds of firecrackers, children laughing and playing, and lights all around that fill your heart with happiness. As the whole building gathers together for a firework session, you know it’s Diwali when people light a cracker, close their eyes and ears and run in the opposite direction. You know it’s Diwali, when your neighborhood aunties warn you because you wore a silk fabric while bursting crackers. And you definitely know it's Diwali when you pose with your group of friends holding phuljhadis or a group of kids are seen debating whether bombs should be banned or not. Moreover, jumping with joy while bursting rockets, chakras and flower pots, is truly Diwali dhamaka,” he sounds nostalgic. Sharing his most favourite Diwali memory, Faiman adds, “I wait for Diwali every year so that I can buy a lot of stuff at a discounted price. I know it is a little funny, but that twinkling night of Diwali and meeting friends and family wearing new clothes, makes me happy. So every year I am always super excited for Diwali celebrations.”

Nilanjana Purkayasstha: I was itching to tell stories that I wanted to tell, rather than just collaborate on stories that others are narrating

 Storyteller* and producer Nilanjana Purkayasstha was always fond of storytelling. Her journey to showbiz has been an eventful one. Born and raised in Guwahati, she moved to Mumbai around the 90s.

 

“A single girl moving to a city where she had no one was a scary prospect for my parents. I basically defied them to come to Mumbai, where I enrolled in *XIC (Xavier school of communication)* to learn filmmaking. Eventually, I was forgiven when they realised that I could take care of myself. My father’s resigned acceptance was evident in one sentence - “you were always stubborn”. I think that kind of sums up my entire life story - I am stubborn and somehow always figure out how to get what I want. After XIC, I got a job in Star Plus and that’s where my TV journey began in 2000. I was a channel executive for 7-8 years till I got bored of it. That’s when I turned producer. Of course, it wasn’t as simple as it sounds,” she says.

Since telling stories was always a part of Nilanjana’s life. “Even in Guwahati I would write and some of my stories were published in newspapers. So, I started writing to sustain myself in Mumbai when I moved here. I got work through friends I made in Mumbai and wrote for events and for ads. However, while working in the channel, I actually learned more about writing. Once I got into the production side of TV, projects took time to fructify. Around that time I started writing professionally. Now, I co-write my own projects,” she adds.

Her first big break as a writer for television came with Bharat Ka Veer Putra Maharana Pratap. “Abhimanyu Singh (CEO of Contiloe Pictures) and I knew each other from my channel days. He asked me to write and I did,” she reveals.

About how she turned a producer, Nilanjana shares that she wanted to do more and got bored with her job as a channel executive after a point.

“I was itching to tell stories that I wanted to tell, rather than just collaborate on stories that others are narrating. Of course, it was easier said than done. I didn’t get a show for almost a year and my savings were running out. I was contemplating going back to a channel job when out of the blue, I got a call from Anu Malik. He had called to check on me. So I told him about my plans and that I was on the verge of giving up. He just said - it will happen… don’t give up. And then he hung up. I realised I cannot give up on my dream and I must continue to be stubborn. That’s how I became a producer,” she adds.

Nilanjana’s debut project as a *producer* was Chandragupta Maurya, which aired on NDTV Imagine. She then started her production house, Invictus T Mediaworks. “The idea was to tell as well as back stories that deserve a platform…  I like being answerable for everything I do… the buck stops with me, good, bad, ugly,” she ends.

Actor Neeraj Goswami is thrilled about being cast in the long-running show Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai.

 I am extremely happy and excited to present my character to the large and loyal audience that this show has garnered over the years," he said about the show that was launched in 2009.

He will be seen as Abhimanyu's elder cousin brother Parth Birla in the daily soap.

"It is just the beginning and there is still a lot to be developed, but as of now I play Parth Birla. He is an artist at heart, but is pursuing his practice as a doctor just under his parental pressure and is often at the receiving end of taunts and comparisons with his brother who is better and a well-known doctor," he said.

"As an artist, you have to find some common ground between what the character is and who you are as a person. I am just glad to be a part of this legendary show in whatever capacity the team sees me fit," he added.

Personally, he is at the other end of the spectrum but that is what makes this role interesting for him. "I have to get into the psyche of this character to be able to feel what he feels and that is what makes my job interesting," said Neeraj.

It is produced by Rajan Shahi ( Directors Kut Production). "I remember every audition that I have given at DKP and finally, after 6 odd years, my efforts of working with Rajan Sir have come to fruition. Also, I feel I am in good hands, given the goodwill of Rajan Sir and the value that forms the crux of DKP, so I am super positive of making a life-long work relationship with Rajan Sir and everyone associated with this project," he said.

For him, content is extremely important and so is every other aspect of the show. "All the parts have to work in unison for a clock to function well. Similarly, all the departments have to be good and work in unison for the content to reach its intended destination," he said.

The show symbolizes human values and relationships, and Rajan Shahi is known for his crisp storytelling. "It is no mystery that Rajan Sir and his capable team have successfully captured the essence of the show and have been able to touch the hearts of the audience not once but twice with this show. All of this is a result of a perfect mixture of experience, wisdom, creativity and a super efficient team. For those reasons, I feel that I am in good hands," he said.

According to him, love triangles are very relatable and real life situations. "Be it choosing between two partners of opposite sex or choosing between two children, the emotional tug of war that we face as lovers or siblings or parents is a very common occurrence and many a times seeing such situations in a TV show or a movie not only serve as a source of entertainment but sometimes as an eye-opener or a solution which otherwise we would not have been able to perceive," he said.

Talking about the title Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, he shared, "It is like a brand that becomes generic like Xerox, Fevicol and Bisleri. It epitomizes TV. I remember a producer friend of mine who once expressed how she was awestruck with the way in which a team has managed to keep a decade-old show so fresh and interesting. She complimented by saying, 'YRKKH ke upar thesis banani chahiye ya phir film. Schools mein iss show ke upar case studies honi chaiye (A thesis should be done or a film should be made on the subject. There should be case studies on this show in schools)'."

Sharad Malhotra on playing Bakshi Jagabandhu in Vidrohi: I'm happy to play a character that probably no one has done ever before on Indian TV

 

If you are fit, you can achieve anything in life” - Actress Gurleen Chopra on Becoming a Certified Nutritionist

 Gurleen Chopra has not only made a mark in Bollywood but also proved her mettle as an actress in different regional industries like Punjabi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Marathi. By essaying a variety of roles in her illustrious career, she has established herself as one of the most versatile actresses in the industry.

Gurleen is known to be fitness conscious and now, she has gone a step further in this direction by becoming a nutritionist.

 

Talking about the same, Gurleen says, “In the last one and a half years, many people put on a lot of weight owing to the lockdown and being at home all the time. Even when the gyms were closed, I made it a point to do exercises at home and remain fit. Since shoots were not happening, I thought of utilizing my time by learning a new skill. I enrolled myself for a nutrition-based course within December 2020 and within a few months, I became a certified nutritionist”.

 

In a short span of time, Gurleen has managed to get a large number of clients across the globe and has used her expertise as a nutritionist to help them lose weight in an organic manner. Even those suffering from tremendous weight gain because of thyroid, diabetes, and PCOD have also benefitted from it.

“I have worked with more than 25,000 clients so far. Some of them have been from India and there are many who live in different countries like London, the UK, Greece, Italy, France, and Dubai. Most of my clientele is from US and Canada. I train them under a three-month-long program. I make a diet chart for them and suggest some exercises which they do at home. There are no medicines or supplements involved in this course”, she says.

 

Many of Gurleen’s clients have lost 30-40 kilograms by just being disciplined and following my recommended plan properly. People who had gained weight because of stress, anxiety, or depression have also benefitted from this plan.

 

“Apart from NRIs, many foreigners have lost a lot of weight by following the diet recommended by me. I always tell my clients that if you are fit, you can achieve anything in life”, she says”, she elaborates.

After achieving tremendous success in the field of nutrition in the last couple of months, Gurleen is all set to pursue an international dietic course soon. Acting, however, remains her first love and she has many interesting projects lined up including a Netflix Original film and a feature film titled ‘Return Ticket’ co-starring Adhyayan Suman, Arbaaz Khan, Ruslaan Mumtaz, and Dev Sharma. There is another project with Zee5 co-starring Sharwar Ali which is being shot in Mumbai at the moment.

 

Karishma Sawant excited to join Rajan Shahi's Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai: The show has everybody’s heart for its content that plays on human values and relationships

 Karishma Sawant will essay the role of Arohi in Rajan Shahi’s Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, after the show takes a leap. The actor is happy to be a part of the daily soap that has been running successfully for twelve years now.

“This show has everybody's heart, and that goes without saying. Being a part of it makes me feel honoured and respected. It's a living dream. My character in the show is very real. It's about how we all are at most times in our lives.  Arohi is a girl, who puts herself first, and believes in herself and her dreams above anything else. I relate to the character. Arohi is a rollercoaster of emotions, both negative and positive. The extremities are something that attracts me to her. If we try and empathize with her we will all be able to relate to her in some way or the other. I am of course a different person, but I understand Arohi,” she says.
Talking about collaborating with Rajan Shahi and Directors Kut Production, she adds, “What else could I have asked for? He is the best producer and Directors Kut Production is the best production house. The transparency here makes it a unique platform when you learn so much every day. It simply makes a person fall in love with your work.”
Content is the king. And, probably that is the reason why Yeh Rishta… that plays high on content is doing well.
“I don't know about the content coming up. But how much ever we have shot has been great and the journey of Yeh Rishta… has been witnessed by all of us. It will always keep you glued to the screen. The show symbolizes human values and relationships. Family is all we have in this world. It's the greatest joy. Every member of the family has their own role to play, which is very well showcased by Rajan sir in the show,” she explains.
 Love Triangles make the drama very interesting, feels Karishma. But, she opines that love as an emotion is extremely versatile.
 “Forget the triangles. Love itself has its irony, which is ‘ironically’ the beauty of it. The title of the show is unique. The ‘Rishta’ you have with yourself has to come first. And then every other Rishta has to fall in place. It sounds simple but how complex that could get we will learn about it on the show,” she ends.

Ashish Nayyar: Ranjan Shahi has a knack of showing finer spectrum of emotions through characters, and that’s what makes Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai special

 Ashish Nayyar plays the role of Anand Cardhan Birla in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai (YRKKH), after the Rajan Shahi production taken a leap. The show has been running high on popularity since 2009. The actor shares that it feels amazing to be a part of YRKKH team and thanks to the producer for giving his the opportunity to be a member of this incredible team.

 
“I’m playing the head of the family and a doctor by profession. Playing a surgeon who is in very much control of the whole scenario and the workings of the hospital, was something that attracted me to the character and story. I do relate to the character for being in charge of an establishment. In real life too I'm in the hospitality business, so I do relate to the challenges,” he adds.
 
Ashish shares that it is amazing working with the team. “Ranjan ji and the entire team feel like one extended family. It’s wonderful to work with good people like them. There are always value systems that every family follows and our lives revolve around it. Ranjan ji has a knack of showing a finer spectrum of emotions through the characters and that’s what makes YRKKH a unique experience. Content is definitely top priority because good content is relatable and satisfying to watch,” he says.
 
The title of the show is yet another thing that makes it special. “In every relationship, there's a special bond which exists, but can’t be named or categorised. Those bonds are really special. That is the crux of the show as well,” he concludes.

Pranali Rathore to play Akshara in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai: Working with Rajan Shahi sir is a learning experience, he explains things well and supports us all

 Rajan Shahi’s Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai is all set to take a leap. This time, Pranali Rathore will portray the role of Akshara. The actor sounds excited to be a part of such an iconic show that has been running high on popularity since its inception in 2009.

“It's an honour and privilege to take the legacy of one of the most successful shows forward. The show that I grew up with is one that I am a part of. From loving Hina Khan to understanding the crux of the show, this is a feeling I won’t be able to define in simple words,” she says.
Pranali’s Akshara is fun-loving and filled with positivity that reflects in her thoughts and feelings. She loves her family and could take a bullet if required.
“I relate to the character so much that I instantly fell in love with the way it has been written. Also, in real life, I'm free-spirited just like Akshara. I love my family. They are the ones who have supported me through and through,” she adds.
Sharing her experience of working with Rajan Shahi and the team of Directors Kut Production, she says, “Working with Rajan sir is a pleasure as we all get to learn from his experience. The way he supports us, explains things is absolutely brilliant. Content is king and he understands that as well as the pulse of the audience so well. These days it’s very important to be a part of the change that viewers are also ready to accept and expect intelligent narratives from where they take something to take back.”
The show symbolizes human values and relationships. And Rajan Shahi is known for his crisp storytelling.
“Relationship and human values are the two most valuable things on this planet and I believe we are in an industry that is best known for expressing that to the audience through our stories. Rajan sir is a master in what he does as he gets into every detail of the story and refines each detail himself. I think all these make him one of the best showrunners in our industry today,” she adds.
Elaborating her views on love triangles and the title of Yeh…, Pranali says, “I do feel that love triangles make the story really interesting. But I also believe that love towards anything should be pure and he who feels this comes out victorious. As far as the title is concerned, I think it questions that we all should ask ourselves what a relationship that you earn in your life means to you and the fellow person. I guess when we know the answer to it, the world will be a better place for mankind.”

Salman Khan questions the housemates on Vidhi Pandya's eviction, says she made a good bond with everyone

 When in the "Bigg Boss" house expect the unexpected, and what came as a big shock to the contestants last week was when "Bigg Boss" asked the housemates to name two contestants whose contribution is nil in the fifteenth season of the show. Quite surprisingly the inmates took Vidhi Pandya's name as one of the two contestants who had not contributed anything to the show so far. Though Karan Kundrra tried that the junglewaasis become a majority and evict two mutually, it came down to the contribution part. 

While taking her name, some called Vidhi as their sister, some as the most trust-worthy person and some as a good friend, but even after making so many relationships in the house, Vidhi was the one who had to exit the main gate. 

Well, on the Weekend ka Vaar host and superstar Salman Khan brought up the topic and said, "Only one girl in the house formed good relationships with everyone in the house and nobody had anything bad to say about Vidhi, not even a single negative comment against her and you guys voted her out of the house thinking she has not contributed anything to the game. You guys yourself know that it's so difficult to create a good relationship in the house and only she was able to do it." 

Vidhi's eviction was truly a shocking one especially when she was on good terms with everyone. And it's not that she did nothing. The contestants might have forgotten how she made a point when Afsana Khan supported the main house contestants in the first week and how she took a stand for herself when Pratik removed the lock from the washroom when she was taking a shower. Also, she fought like a tigress whenever a task was announced, be it taking the pieces of the map from the store room or the sugarcane juice task. But the audience saw it all and were quite disappointed with her unfair eviction.

Vijayendra Kumeria: Accept yourself and be young forever

 Actor Vijayendra Kumeria is against age shaming, and believes in being happy in his own skin.

"I genuinely feel that age is just a number, I never try to hide my age. It's about feeling young or old. A healthy mind and body makes you what you are and not the number of years you have lived with that mind and body," said the 35-year-old actor.

Age shaming has become a common thing in public space, especially social media, and Vijayendra finds it is sad that we are living in a world where people just want to have fun at the expense of others. "This should stop. Even if it doesn’t, one should pay no heed to it," he said.

Calling someone uncle and aunty sarcastically is very common, but he hasn't faced it. "Instead people guess my age less than what it is. Not that I am proud or boasting about it, but again the point is you are as old as you feel."

According to him, as an actor your screen age is important. "If you look the part, you get the role," he said.

Commenting on the best way to deal with ageism, he shared, "Why should one? Just be happy in your skin. Accept yourself and be young forever."

Thapki Pyaar Ki 2 actor Aakash Ahuja believes that social media addiction is like living in an illusion.

 "I believe people spend a lot of time on social media. It takes you away from real interactions and real emotions. I think people are busy trying to attract other people or impress other people by showing them how happening their life is instead of being in the moment and enjoying that moment with the people around them. I think it's living in an illusion and I believe that life was pretty simple before social media," he said.

Time management in the current scenario has become quite a task for many.

"I believe that it's all in our head. If the person is mentally sound and focused, time management will not be an issue. But that is what we lack these days - patience. And I think that's more of an issue than time management. The attention span has reduced and people don't have the patience to listen to anything or use their own head," he said. Everyone is very occupied in their respective careers, and people who belong to the entertainment industry are often seen and heard complaining about lack or shortage of time. Agreeing with it, he said, "Yes because there is less time and more work to do. The job is time-consuming and requires a lot of energy. So it does drain you at times because you mentally get involved. You psychologically put yourself out there. You're vulnerable when you're in front of the camera. It's very tiring, more tiring than any kind of physical work. So there is a time shortage, but that is the game."

Sundays or offs don't feel like a holiday now, thanks to communication tools like mobile phones and social media. We have forgotten where to put a full stop. He feels that the same technology which is a boon, is a bane too.

"Social media has killed personal interaction. People don't have patience to sit and talk to the other person or even their loved ones. We're all happy to have pictures which do not really show the real picture inside the other person's head because everyone is always smiling and always very bright with all the editing tools. But that's not how life is. So yes, I think it is very delusional," said Aakash.

Everyone gets the same 24 hours, but sometimes those 24 hours don't seem enough. Sharing two time management tips, he said, "I think just sleeping on time and waking up early. If you're awake early in the morning, it is easier for you to plan your day and go about it."

Aly Goni and Mouni Roy's 'Jodaa' garners 20 million views

 It's just been a week since Aly Goni and Mouni Roy's new music video "Jodaa" released on YouTube and the song has already received 20 million views. Crooned by   Bigg Boss 15 contestent

  Afsana Khan, the lyrics has been written by Maninder Kailey with music by Jatinder Shah. 

This is Aly and Mouni's first video together and their chemistry is something to watch out for. Set in a royal palace, the song revolves around a queen's unconditional love for her king and how she struggles to win him back. 

The audience has praised the song for its larger-than-life picturisation and the chemistry and emotions that the actors showed in the song.   "'Jodaa' is a special song. It was a very different experience shooting in the palace wearing a royal attire. Mouni is a fabulous dancer and an amazing co-actor. Afsana's soulful voice has done the magic and the 20 million views is a proof of that. Thanks to the audience and my fans for giving so much love to 'Jodaa'," Aly said.   This is the actor's fourth music video this year after "Tera suit", " Tu bhi sataya jayega" and "2 phone".

The new cast of Rajan Shahi's Ye Ristha Kya Kehlata Hai is like a breath of fresh air!

 Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai recently bid goodbye to Mohsin Khan and Shivangi Joshi aka Kartik and Naira/Sirat. Now, we will see new actors taking forward this beautiful story of Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai produced by Director's Kut (Rajan Shahi). In a new promo of Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai (Star Plus)  we see Harshad Chopda as Abhimanyu, Pranali Rathod as Akshara and Karishma Sawant as Aarohi. This will be Karishma Sawant's debut in the television industry and she is super excited about it. Karishma Sawant about her character, Aarohi. She said that being a newbie in the industry and having the pleasure of being a part of such a huge show is like a dream come true for her. 

"Right now, I am just looking to do something out of the box that challenges me and seems beyond my reach. People can expect a lot of surprises from me, as I am surprising myself every day. I am really looking forward to the appreciation and love of the audience for my new journey on Hindi television, "she said. Pranali Rathod also spoke about her character and shared her excitement on joining the show. Pranali said, "I am over the moon to have received this great opportunity and extremely thrilled to be a part of such a huge show, and I greatly hope for the audience to accept and love my character. As soon as I was handed the script, there was no turning back from there onwards as not everybody gets to be a part of a show like this." 

In the latest promo of the show, we saw Akshara selecting a scarf which is also like by Aarohi. Aarohi tells Akshara that the scarf will look better on her. Akshara agrees and says that it will definitely look better on her sister, Aarohi. Later, the two move to a lakeside where Akshara tells Aarohi that if they throw a coin in this lake whatever they wish for they will get it. Just then, Abhimanyu enters and Aarohi is mesmerized. She snatches the coin from Akshara's hand and goes to wish. She throws the coin and says that Abhimanyu is really handsome and she wishes that he falls in love with her. While Abhimanyu loves Akshara and wishes that he gets her. Akshara being a good sister wishes that all of Aarohi's wishes come true. Rajan Shahi's Ye Ristha Kya Kehlata Hai is loved by masses and classes.

Celebs share the positive quote which they like!

 Ragini Nandwani: It is a Punjabi quote and is extremely positive. Whenever I feel anything negative is going on in my life and something is not working according to my plan, I read that quote and remember that Waheguru has given me everything. The quote “Pale mere vi khak na honda sirte rabde hath na Honda”. Whatever happens, it happens for good only.

Pranitaa Pandit: I have two favourite quotes: “This too shall pass” and “Nothing lasts forever”.

Mrunal Jain: “Let me see what happens if you don't give up,” I give my 500 % to anything before quitting. I am very stubborn, especially with my work and personal life. I don't give up easily.

Meera Deosthale: “Change is the only constant”, that’s the quote I live by and keep my mind positive with. I feel we are all bound to go through changes all the time and we must always be open to welcome change and adjust to it accordingly. Life becomes much easier if we don’t resist change.

Sharad Malhotra: “Be happy within and follow your heart, nothing else matters.” It keeps me motivated and positive.

Amit Sarin: For me, it is “Live and let live. Life is precious and friendship with time makes all the difference.”

A heartfelt goodbye to Shivangi Joshi

 There are some characters who get etched on the audience's heart forever and one of them is Shivangi Joshi as Naira of Rajan Shahi's "Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai". Earlier this year when Naira died in the show, the actress donned the character of Naira's lookalike Sirat, and played it with such perfection that the viewers fell in love with her instantly. But now, it's time for a new chapter to begin in the show. The old characters are bidding adieu, while the new energetic characters are all set to come on-board. And what came as the most emotional and moving kind of farewell was that of Shivangi which left everyone with tears in their eyes.

Here's what Rajan and his team at Director's Kut Productions (DKP) had to say about Shivangi:

Ranjeet Agarwal (Business Head, DKP): "Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end...” As we bid goodbye to you, I  want to thank you for your extremely professional, hard-working and dedicated behavior towards the team. Your cooperation in shooting for long hours without any complaints or demands is commendable. Even after such a huge success, you were always humble and grounded. Your level of integrity, ethical behavior and sense of fairness will contribute to your success wherever you go. I wish you the very best in the future and I know that whatever the future holds, you will excel and continue to be successful.
God bless.

Deepa Shahi (Founder, Shahi Productions Pvt Ltd): Best wishes Shivangi. Thank you for your contribution to the show and making YRKKH a success. God bless you with greater success in all your future endeavors.

Vivek Jain (Creative Producer, DKP): All know Shivangi as a star, best actor, fabulous dancer and a true rockstar, but we DKPians know her as a person whom you always want to work with, a committed actor who respect her work more than anything in life, a hardworking girl who never says no to any work we asked her. Whenever we met, it was always first food and then talk and that will never change. Your approach towards work and life shows the best upbringing you got from your respected parents.
Giving you blessings direct from the heart. Shine forever. Rock the world as always.

Aarif Shaikh (Line Producer, DKP): Waqt ka takaza bhi ab yehi hai,
Tum badho aage hamari dua yehi hai,
Khushiyan jitni mili hai aajtak uski chauguni ho jaye,
Tumhari kismat sitaron, saiyyaron se chand or suraj ho jaye,
Jahan bhi tum jao wahan roshni ho jaye,
Kaamyabi tumhara saya or shohrat zindagi ho jaye,

A true star Shivangi Joshi. Let me proudly tell this to everyone that at this age even with so much of success I have never seen a professional actor like you in my career. You have set an example. It's really our pleasure to have worked with you Shivangi. You are such a good human being, and a committed, dedicated and hardworking person.

From first day of shoot in Rishikesh till today, you are the same person. So much to say about you but nothing will be enough as your hardwork can't be described in words.  There are very few actors in the industry who are a complete package of beauty, talent, dance, luck, hardworking, passion, and top of that best human being. It's not a good bye from our side. It's a new beginning and all the best to you for all your future projects.

Garima Dimri (Creative Director, DKP) : “Iron girl”, that's the term for her. This girl has given her heart and soul to YRKKH. Many have come and gone, but nobody can match your sincerity, commitment and humility. The journey has just begun for you my dear. You have miles to go ahead and we are here for you a call away, and I can say without hesitation so are you. Lots of love babe, keep shining.

And what to say about the woman behind her, her mother, who has guided her throughout and has a bond with everyone on the set. She was called mummy by everyone on set. Thank you so much..( will miss her delicious food)

Rajan Shahi (Founder, DKP): Thanks and gratitude Shivangi Joshi from all of us in DKP/ YRKKH team unit cast and crew. Yesterday was a day of saying thank you. Gratitude for setting benchmark of what it means to be truly a professional, hardworking talent with utmost humility, dedication, patience and genuine real time tested unconditional faith respect for entire crew, co-actors, production house, channel, fans and viewers. 29 years of my career as director and producer in this industry have never come across a human and dedicated actor like you. I hope every production house, maker and channel is as lucky and fortunate to have experienced this power of talent, hard work standing by channel and makers from day one till end like you did.

There are 1000 reasons in such a long journey as LEADS of almost 6 years to sometimes waiver question the makers or channel but you showed that there is only one reason that is to be a true professional and to stand by your team. I can proudly say on behalf of all your co-actors thank u and mainly MOHSIN as you both stood together as the best jodi and team..
thanks to you and Mohsin, for always working hard together as professionals, dedicated and how you have both complimented each other.

Yesterday was the first time I saw a unit crying each and every member as they said thanks to you and Yashodhaji. From the Business Head, Series Director, Creative Director, line producer, creative producer, directors, entire crew and unit cried.

First time in life, in my entire career, I cried in front of my unit. I was moved emotionally. A new experience for me and my team as i have never seen an actor create so much love respect and regard in each member. We got emotional as the entire team was present as ur last shot was being canned in YRKKH and we realized we never want you to leave DKP. but with entusiasm hope prayers we all said and knew you have a long successful journey ahead and we have to let u go for a larger growth in ur journey. and we all in dkp pray and hope we can be part of it
a special thanks to Yashodha ji who has taught us what it means to be a superwoman mother guide and mentor. Your love towards ur family is exemplary.

Romesh Kalra (Series Director, DKP): Shivangi Joshi, the best actor and person I’ve worked with in my career. It’s not a goodbye, it’s a relationship we will share all our lives. You’re at the top and have created such a benchmark that I don’t know if any other actor will be able reach there. You have worked selflessly from day 1 and been the same always. Be like this always. Lots of Love, blessings and best wishes.

Ishika Shahi: It is great hear, see and interact with Shivangi. I have always seen how hard working and dedicated she is, and dad has always said that if you want to learn what is hard work and dedication and to keeping up day to day the commitment of hard work. Shivangi has done the best in DKP. So I really wish and congratulate her and all the very best for her future.

Director Rishi Mandial: A good human being with  good soul and always enthusiastic for good work. Its always pleasure working with her, as an actress she emotes so well you can cry while watching her performance.