Shoojit Sircar congratulates his National Award-winning team of Sardar Udham!

Shoojit Sircar congratulates his National Award-winning team of Sardar Udham!

 Director Shoojit Sircar, who is currently shooting in the US for his next project, congratulates and extends his warm wishes to the team of "Sardar Udham" on being conferred with the National Film Awards. The awards ceremony took place this afternoon in Vigyan Bhavan, Delhi.

 "Sardar Udham" won 5 awards at the 69th National Film Awards including Best Hindi Feature Film. The Film celebrates the patriotism and valor of freedom fighter Sardar Udham Singh and has received much acclaim and appreciation from audiences across the globe.

 Director Shoojit Sircar states, "It saddens me the most not to be present at the National Film Awards ceremony. However, we had all our National Award team members shining brightly at the podium. Thank you and a big congratulations to my producers, Ronnie and Sheel, and the entire team of Sardar Udham for making this dream come true for many."

 Sardar Udham stars Vicky Kaushal in the lead and is produced by Rising Sun Films and Kino Works.

Hustle 3 Represent Launch

India’s biggest rap battleground is back! POCO ‘MTV Hustle 03 REPRESENT’ gears up for a new blockbuster season!

~ Global rap artist Badshah, with Squad Bosses Ikka, Dee MC, Dino James, and EPR is set to bring the next generation of rap stars to the Indian audiences ~

~ The third season of the rap reality television show will air, starting October 21, Saturday and Sunday at 7:00 pm on MTV and JioCinema ~

Mumbai, India’s groundbreaking rap reality television show is back for a power-packed new season! Going full throttle, POCO MTV Hustle 03 REPRESENT, co-powered by GOVO Soundbars, T-Series, Wildstone, and Appy Fizz, is here to bring an electrifying wave of 3X the music, talent and entertainment! The Sonic Revolution is all set to bring unprecedented rap sounds from all corners of India, premiering on October 21, and thereafter every Saturday and Sunday at 7:00 pm on MTV and JioCinema.

 Representing the country’s youth, this season’s definitive clarion call, ‘India Ab Tumhari Baari’, urges everyone to proudly celebrate their ideologies, beliefs, issues, music, passion, culture, hood, stories, and identity. MTV Hustle 03 REPRESENT is all set to reinforce MTV as a culture catalyst that has put desi hip-hop on the global map!

 Leading the charge once again will be none other than the trailblazing global rap supremo Badshah. To hone talent and create industry-ready professionals, eminent Indian rap powerhouses and Squad Bosses Dee MC, Dino James, and EPR are set to return to the blazing battleground. Joining them will be super-talented rap virtuoso, Ikka! Known for his inimitable success in underground rap music, Ikka’s versatility expands across the commercial Bollywood music landscape, making him a formidable new Squad Boss!

 MTV Hustle 03 REPRESENT will bring to fans rap talent with varying degrees of experience, forte, and prowess, all competing on the same stage as equals. Contestants will also get to show their mettle in front of celebrity guests who will grace the new season. Elevating the musical spectrum will be Karan Kanchan, the most sought-after visionary multi-genre Music Producer in Indian Hip-hop whose biggest tracks include Baazigar, Satya, and Aane De. He commented, “I am super stoked to be a part of POCO MTV Hustle 03 REPRESENT, which has spearheaded this shake-up in India’s Hip-Hop Scene. The talent is exceptional, Unique, and from places you won't expect from and I’m excited for audiences to discover their new playlist favorites.”

 True to the theme of India Representation, popular music producer Anurag Saikia of Panchayat fame will bring sounds from the heartlands of the country that will be relatable to the youth. He commented, “This upcoming season of MTV Hustle promises to captivate audiences with a remarkable portrayal of India's diverse musical influences and history, ensuring fans are in for a delightful experience about our rich musical culture”.

Audiences can expect meticulously designed cutting-edge graphics, a concert-like vibe, and state-of-the-art acoustics! Musically inclusive, the songs will also feature regional, folk, and Bollywood influences and unplugged versions, all of which will be available on multiple platforms including KaanPhod Music.

 The latest season will also have higher stakes for the Squad Bosses, who will battle it out with 16 contestants for the ultimate glory. Each week, fans will witness epic rap performances from the Squads, wherein ‘banger’ tracks will get the much-coveted Radio Hit from Badshah.

 Sharing his thoughts on the new season, Badshah said, “POCO MTV Hustle 03 Represent, India’s only desi hip-hop stage, represents the dreams and aspirations of the Indian youth. I’m excited to return to the battleground. I can't wait for the country's next wave of rap sensations to be discovered"

 Squad Boss Ikka, leading Ikka Gangsters, said, "MTV Hustle is the only show that recognizes India’s hidden desi hip-hop voices. While I came on the show last season as a guest and got a glimpse of the impressive talent, I’m super excited to debut as a Squad Boss and be right in the middle of all the action! It’s game time!”

 Commenting on the new season, Squad Boss Dee MC, of Dee MC Dynamites, said, "I have always believed that rap is a celebration of individuality and self-expression. Super excited to be back and be a part of the dynamic new season! The diversity and competition are something to watch out for.”

Squad Boss Dino James, of Dino Warriors, added, “It’s overwhelming to see the fandom that MTV Hustle has garnered, truly becoming a radical stimulus for India’s phenomenal rap talent. I feel delighted to be a part of its third season which promises to be a banger itself!”

 Squad Boss EPR of EPR Rebels, whose protégé won MTV Hustle 2.0, added, “At the heart of Rap music, is storytelling. I believe conscious poetry can change the world. Especially desi hip-hop, which has always followed its own trajectory. I’m excited to be back on this stage and elevate this movement to the next level.”

Recently the IP, which has delivered 100+ chart-toppers, was in the news for its ground-breaking global partnership with T-Series. In a first-of-its-kind initiative by a non-fiction IP in India, this partnership provides exclusive music rights for worldwide distribution. Amplifying the vision of building industry-ready rap professionals, the show is committed to empowering artist journeys at a global scale.

For the exciting third season of Hustle 3.0, JioCinema has planned a range of exciting and engaging interactivities for its viewers. A Fantasy League has been designed that will allow audiences to make their own squad and win points for predicting which contestants will get Radio hit, the highest squad scores, and who will be eliminated. The person who wins will stand a chance to watch the show live. Adding to the entertainment is a fun a-watch-and-win contest where viewers will be asked one question during the Sunday episode that will allow viewers to win exciting prizes daily. Everyone is aware of the popular meme culture, keeping this in mind, the audience will be given templates from the iconic show on which they can create their own memes. The immersive interactivities above are sure to make this season of Hustle on JioCinema an engaging experience.

Get ready to witness the rise of the next generation of desi hip-hop stars as they REPRESENT India like never before, with POCO MTV Hustle 03 REPRESENT | Starting October 21, every Saturday and Sunday, at 7:00pm on MTV and JioCinema!.

&TV to present ‘Atal’

 &TV to present ‘Atal’

~A show narrating the untold stories of Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s childhood~

In the annals of Indian history, several Prime Ministers have emerged as transformative leaders, steering their nation through pivotal moments with great vision and resolve. Their tenures were marked by a series of monumental decisions that shaped the country’s destiny and propelled it to the forefront of global influence. Through strategic vision and decisive actions, these leaders etched their names in history, leaving an indelible legacy that defined an era of unprecedented success and progress. One such prominent leader was the late Atal Bihari Vajpayee. 

Atal Bihari Vajpayee was an influential statesman and Indians hold his legacy in high regard. & TV is set to explore the untold aspects of his childhood through its new show, ‘Atal’. Produced by Euphoria Productions, the show will deep dive into the formative years of a leader who played a pivotal role in shaping India's destiny. Set against the backdrop of British colonial rule in India, the show will delve into the intricacies of Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s childhood, shedding light on the incidents, beliefs, and challenges that molded him into the leader that he was. The storyline will highlight his relationship with his mother, who deeply influenced his beliefs, values, and thinking. On one hand, India was facing slavery under British rule, and on the other, it was facing internal strife and division of wealth, caste, and discrimination. A dream envisioned by Atal's mother of a united India was a dream he deeply cherished. This storyline unfolds the inspiring story of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a boy from humble beginnings who became one of India's most prominent leaders.

‘Atal’ coming soon only on & TV!

North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti Unveils the Grandeur of Durga Puja 2023 in their 76th year with Protima sthapna with the traditional folk lift

North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti Unveils the Grandeur of Durga Puja 2023 in their 76th year with Protima sthapna with the traditional folk lift

North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti, one of the oldest and most prestigious Durga Puja celebrations in the city, is set to astound devotees and visitors alike with its 76th-year celebrations. This year's event promises to be an unparalleled spectacle, celebrating the rich culture, art, and spirituality of the Thai Temples.

The highlight of this year's festivities is undoubtedly the awe-inspiring 20-feet high Protima of Goddess Durga, complete with an intricately crafted Mukut. Without the Mukut, the idol stands tall at an impressive 17 feet which is 30 feet long in breadth. What's more, this magnificent sculpture weighs over 3 tons, necessitating the use of forklifts and cranes during the immersion process. The Protima takes seven rounds before the immersion.

The theme of "Thai Temples" for this year's Durga Puja has been masterfully curated, drawing inspiration from the rich and ornate designs found in the temples of Thailand. The Art Director, Kiran, has painstakingly incorporated Thai aesthetics into the Pandal, ensuring a captivating Thai ambiance for all visitors.

North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti takes immense pride in offering a holistic experience to its devotees and visitors. The USP of this celebration lies in every facet of their hospitality and organization. From the best entertainment programs featuring renowned celebrities performing at the Pandal to an authentic Bhog experience that replicates the warmth of a Baraat, Samiti's commitment to excellence is unwavering.

Visitors at this year's event will be treated to a one-of-a-kind service where they are made to feel like cherished guests. While waiting in the queue, free water is provided, and the air-conditioned waiting area ensures comfort throughout the experience. The Pandal itself is centrally air-conditioned, wheel-chair friendly, and offers valet parking for convenience.

Hygiene and cleanliness are of utmost importance, with dedicated housekeeping ensuring the toilets remain spotless and dry. Renowned artists and singers grace the stage, offering performances that are truly priceless. What sets this Puja apart is that North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti believes in making these performances accessible to all by not selling tickets. This means that even an ordinary person can enjoy a live performances by artists like Sonu Nigam, Shaan, Mika, and more.

With an incredible footfall of over a lakh of people, this Durga Puja celebration is nothing short of a grand extravaganza. The spirit of unity, devotion, and celebration that defines North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti's 76-year legacy continues to shine brighter with each passing year.

North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti was established in 1948. The founder members were Shri Sasadhar Mukerji, Ashok Kumar, Kishore Kumar, Bimal Roy, Hemant Kumar, S D. Burman, Joy Mukerji, Pradeep Kumar, Ram Mukerji, and many other celebrities. The Puja was started with Maa Durga's blessing & it is still going strong because of the good workers like Supratim Sarkar, Navnit Narayan, Sanjoy Mukerji, Prasun Sikdar Shivdutt,, Souvik, Samrat Mukerji.

This year's Durga Puja celebration at North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti is truly a star-studded extravaganza. Bollywood and music industry celebrities are set to grace the occasion with their presence, making it an event of unparalleled glamour and entertainment.

Debu Mukerji of North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti quoted saying “We welcome all to our puja to seek maa’s blessings. Celebrations at North Bombay Sarbojanin Durga Puja Samiti will be bigger, better & grander this year"

Durga Puja is celebrated from Shasti to Bijoya Dashami

MAHASHASHTI: On this day,  Maa is welcomed with much fanfare. In the evening, the Kulo is decorated with Paan, Sindur, Alta, Sheela (stone), Dhaan, etc..and amidst the beats of Dhaak and sound of Shaankh, Maa is welcomed…  This is called Amontron and Adhivas -Maa’s Bodhon… Maa is being welcomed

MAHASAPTAMI: On this day the   Kalash (Earthen Pot) is placed with green Coconut and  Mango  Leaves.  This is surrounded on all sides by a red thread and tied. This is called KALASH STHAPAN. The Kalash is an earthen Pot because Maa’s Murti is made of Ganga clay and Maa’s PRAAN (or life) is concentrated in the Pot. So the Pot is the symbol of Maa.  The  Puja starts with praying to  Ganapati,  followed by prayers to  Maa.  Another name of Maa Durga is NABA PATRIKA, which means nine trees i.e.Banana tree, Kochu tree, Haldi tree, Jayanti tree, Branch of Bel tree, Dalim tree ( pomegranate) are tied together. The double Bel fruit is tied to the Banana tree. This is then taken to a river bank or sea and given a bath. When it is brought back it is draped in a white and red sari with sindur and it now looks like a married lady with her head covered. This is called KOLA BAHU. Many have a misconception that KOLA BAHU is the wife of Ganapati but actually, she is MaaDurga or Naba Patrika... Ganapati’s mother

MAHA SNAN: On this day Maa Durga is given a bath. First, a vessel is placed in front of the Murti; a mirror is kept in the vessel so that the reflection of Maa is seen in the mirror. The   Priest applies Haldi and Mustard oil on the mirror, as though they are applying it on Maa before the bath. In earlier times when there was no soap, haldi and mustard oil were used for baths. The Pujari puts different kinds of water, i.e. Coconut water, Chandan, Ganga jal, Sugar cane juice, and water from the seven holy seas to give her a bath. During this time, mud from every region, as well as mud from the Prostitute’s door is essential. After the bath the Pujari puts dhaan- durbar and a new sari with Maa’s name written on  the mirror which is then placed on the Bedi (the place of worship)

PRAN PRATISTHA: This means bringing life into the mirror.  The Pujari takes Kusha and flowers in the right hand and touches Maa from head to foot, and with Mantra Path life is brought into the Murti, Mirror, and Kalash.

MAHA AGAMAN: Every year Maa comes either on a Palki or an Elephant or a Boat a Dola (Swing), or a Horse, etc.  In this Bengali year 1423, Goddess Durga’s arrival on a horse signifies, indicates the “bad horse”- The most destructive mood, hence all her path is trampled. The Goddess arrives & leaves the earth on the same vehicle, indicating natural calamities, social unrest, and political upheavals. Maa Durga’s agaman- is on the horse & gaman – on a horse.

Welcome: The puja to welcome Maa is done with 16 items- Ashan  Swagatam [ Welcome ], Paddyo [ Water  To  Wash The  Feet ], Argho, Achmoniyom, Madhu Parkam, Purnar Achmaniyam, Abharan [ Shringar], Sindoor, Gandha [ Scent ], Pushpa[ Flower],  Pushpa Mallya [ Garland], Billo Patra [Bel Leaf], Billopatra Mala[ Garland Of Bel Leaf], Dhoop, Deep, Kajal, Naibiddo, Bhog And Mishti [Sweet], Paan, Supari.

PUSHPANJALI [PRAYER OFFERING]: Puspanjali means offering prayers at Maa’s feet to give everyone a long life, fame, good luck, health, wealth, and happiness. The devotees request Maa to protect them from all evil, sadness, greed & temptations.

MAHA ASHTAMI PUJA: Maa is now Maha Gauri- The Puja starts with Mahasnan & Maha gauri puja. The Puja is done to give Maa the strength of the 64 Yoginis. This is a Puja of 9 pots. Then the weapons of Maa are worshiped.

SHANDHI PUJA: This is the puja when Ashtami Puja ends and Navami Puja begins, so the name Shandhi Puja. This is considered to be the most vital time, meeting (shandhi)of Ashtami and Navami puja. The duration of this Puja is 45 minutes. At this moment  Maa is CHAMUNDA.  Pushpanjali: Prayer offering. Bhog is offered which consists of fruits and sweets is offered to Maa, followed by  “NEET  BHOG”, consisting of  Rice, Ghee, Dal, Fried Vegetables, Chutney, and Payesh.  This prasad is later distributed amongst the devotees which is called KANGALI BHOJAN.

At this time 108 diyas are lit and 108 lotus are offered to Maa. There is a famous story that Lord Ram prayed to Maa Durga offering 108 lotus at her feet in order to defeat Ravan. But to his surprise he found one lotus missing, to replace it, he wanted to sacrifice his eye and pray to Maa..at that moment Maa appeared in front of him and stopped him..returning the missing lotus to him.  She then blessed him for his ” VICTORY”.

MAHA NAVAMI PUJA: On this day, Maa is SIDDHI DHATRI. This Puja starts with  Ganapati Puja and then puja of all the other DEV and DEVIS are performed.. followed by Maha Snan of Maa.

BIJOYA DASHAMI:- On this day Maa had defeated and killed Mahishashur.

DEVI PUJA:- Bhog with curd, honey, and milk is offered to Maa.. this is called CHARANAMRIT. The pujari sitting on the Asan takes a flower near the sacred pot and keeps it in the Northern direction because Maa is from KAILASH.

Then the pujari takes the sacred mirror that was on the vessel and performs the ritual of Visharjan. This is the same mirror that was used to welcome Maa because her reflection is in the mirror.

SINDUR  UTSAV: The married ladies apply sindur on Maa’s forehead and offer sweets after which all the other ladies apply sindur on each other’s forehead. This is followed by  KANAK ANJALI when Maa is departing back to her husband’s abode.

VISHARJAN:- During the Visharjan of the Murti, all the devotees either go to a river bank or sea and immerse the Murti in the water.

SHANTI JAL: – The sacred pot is brought back from the river/sea filled with the water where the Murti is immersed. Then the pujari chants the Mantra and sprinkles water with the help of mango leaves on the head of all the devotees for peace and happiness.

DASSERA: This is the day of rejoicement, where youngsters touch the feet of their elders seeking their blessings, and sweets are distributed.

BUSINESSWOMAN-PHILANTHROPIST SUDHA REDDY CHAMPIONS INDIAN JEWELLERY ON THE GLOBAL STAGE

BUSINESSWOMAN-PHILANTHROPIST SUDHA REDDY CHAMPIONS INDIAN JEWELLERY ON THE GLOBAL STAGE

Sudha Reddy, Hyderabad’s eminent business personality and ardent philanthropist, played host to the magnificent Shiv Narayan Jewellery exhibit on the 12th of October in the vibrant city of London at The Wallace Collection. 

Sudha Reddy played the perfect host at an exclusive London soirée that witnessed the coming together of celebrated personalities from the realms of fashion, jewellery, media, and high society for a preview of Shiv Narayan’s exquisite and regal piece.

Seen in attendance were Joseph Muscat - Former Prime Minister of Malta, Deputy Mayor Councillor Schmetterliqng, Princess Katarina de Silva, and Princess Corinna Sayn Wittgenstein, among other dignitaries and celebrities. 

This bespoke event championed the spirit of cross-border collaborations as the immaculately dressed industrialist and British Fashion Council patron Reddy, a visionary with a mission to bridge the divide between the splendour of Indian heritage and its global accessibility, expressed great pride and passion in celebrating Indian artistry and craftsmanship.

The evening commenced with a lavish champagne reception, fostering an ambience of camaraderie among the distinguished guests, affording them a unique opportunity to briefly connect with the brilliant minds behind the brand.

Commenting on her association with the brand, Mrs Reddy said "I am filled with pride today, as I move closer to my goal of spearheading cross-cultural appreciation of Indian culture and craftsmanship on a global scale. As a proud patron of the British Fashion Council and an impassioned connoisseur of art and fashion, my vision is to create a platform that leverages my resources to close the divide between India's exquisite and intricate artistry and make it more accessible worldwide. At the same time, I seek to honour and celebrate the rich traditions, craftsmanship, and innovative spirit of both nations. I firmly believe that beauty should be shared, and India's art and culture deserve global recognition and appreciation. So let's embark on this exhilarating journey and try to champion Indian culture to even greater heights!"

The brand's London debut showcased a tribute to the resplendent world of Indian jewellery. The exceptional pieces were filled with green emerald creations and the otherworldly charm of aurum wonders. 

At the centre of the exhibition, a blend of intricate artistry and ethereal craftsmanship captivated everyone present. Among the treasures showcased, the iconic Ganesha pendant stood tall, among the other pieces proudly holding ten Guinness World Records.

Reddy, a distinguished business tycoon and philanthropist, renowned for her commitment to charitable causes and an ardent lover of the arts and fashion, is no newcomer to the glamorous world of fashion, having left an indelible mark on illustrious red carpets such as the Met Gala, Paris Haute Couture, and the Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition with her inimitable presence. As a patron of the British Fashion Council, her global impact extends far beyond the realm of fashion, solidifying her status as an iconic figure who seamlessly melds philanthropy with the elegance of haute couture. 

 

Varun Tej and Manushi Chhillar Unveil Stunning New Poster

Varun Tej and Manushi Chhillar Unveil Stunning New Poster for 'Operation Valentine’!

An Air Force action thriller, inspired by true events – now, isn't that thrilling? To add to the excitement, Varun Tej and Manushi Chhillar took to their social media platforms and shared an enticing poster of their film on the eve of the India vs. Pakistan match. 

‘Operation Valentine’ has been shot in both Hindi and Telugu, marking Varun Tej's debut in Hindi films.

‘Operation Valentine’ is a patriotic, edge-of-the-seat entertainer and will showcase the indomitable spirits of our Air Force heroes on the frontlines and the challenges they faced as they fought one of the biggest, fiercest aerial attacks that India has ever seen. 

 ‘Operation Valentine’ is produced by Sony Pictures International Productions, Sandeep Mudda’s Renaissance Pictures, and co-produced by God Bless Entertainment (Vakil Khan) and Nandakumar Abbineni. Shakti Pratap Singh Hada, a seasoned ad-film maker and VFX aficionado will be marking his directorial debut with this film. Written by Shakti Pratap Singh Hada, Aamir Khan, and Siddharth Raj Kumar, the film will be released in Telugu and Hindi on December 8, 2023.

‘Atal’ coming soon only on &TV!

 &TV to present ‘Atal’

~A show narrating the untold stories of Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s childhood~

In the annals of Indian history, several Prime Ministers have emerged as transformative leaders, steering their nation through pivotal moments with great vision and resolve. Their tenures were marked by a series of monumental decisions that shaped the country’s destiny and propelled it to the forefront of global influence. Through strategic vision and decisive actions, these leaders etched their names in history, leaving an indelible legacy that defined an era of unprecedented success and progress. One such prominent leader was the late Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee was an influential statesman and Indians hold his legacy in high regard. &TV is set to explore the untold aspects of his childhood through its new show, ‘Atal’. Produced by Euphoria Productions, the show will deep dive into the formative years of a leader who played a pivotal role in shaping India's destiny. Set against the backdrop of British colonial rule in India, the show will delve into the intricacies of Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s childhood, shedding light on the incidents, beliefs, and challenges that molded him into the leader that he was.

 

The storyline will highlight his relationship with his mother, who deeply influenced his beliefs, values, and thinking. On one hand, India was facing slavery under British rule, and on the other, it was facing internal strife and division of wealth, caste, and discrimination. A dream envisioned by Atal's mother of a united India was a dream he deeply cherished. This storyline unfolds the inspiring story of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a boy from humble beginnings who became one of India's most prominent leaders.

  

‘Atal’ coming soon only on &TV!