Deepak Dua
Christmas Eve 2024 marked a momentous occasion for India – the 100th birth anniversary of the legendary singer Mohammed Rafi. To commemorate this milestone, Padma Shri Sonu Nigam took to the stage at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) with a heartfelt tribute to his idol. The concert, titled Sau Saal Pehle, organised by NR Talent and Event Management, marked Sonu Nigam’s first-ever Mohammed Rafi tribute show in India, where he delivered an extraordinary lineup of nearly 50 evergreen classics from Rafi’s timeless repertoire, accompanied by a 50-member live orchestra.
The evening was graced by the presence of Mohammed Rafi’s family, including his son Shahid Rafi and daughter-in-law Firdaus Rafi. Rabbani Mustafa Khan and Namrata Gupta Khan, son and daughter-in-law of the late Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan, played the perfect hosts for this touching tribute.
Sonu Nigam opened the performance with beautiful renditions of Tu Kahin Aas Paas Hai Dost, Mera Toh Jo Bhi Kadam, and Dil Ka Soona Saaz.
He sang Yeh Chand Sa Roshan Chehra, Maine Poocha Chand Se, Baharon Phool Barsao, Pukarta Chala Hoon Main, Kya Hua Tera Wada, Pardesiyon Se Na Akhiyan Milana, Dard E Dil, O Haseena Zulfonwali, Aaja Aaja, and many more.
In a heartfelt moment, Sonu’s father, Agam Kumar Nigam, joined him on stage to honour the legendary singer as well. An emotional Sonu reflected on the impact of Rafi on his life, sharing, “Rafi Sahab is my musical father. It was my father who introduced me to Rafi Sahab’s music, and it was Rafi Sahab who made me who I am today… Rafi Sahab ki wajah se main hoon, mera wajood hai.”
“Baby John” Earns Over Rs 2 Crore on Advance Bookings
Varun Dhawan’s much-awaited action film, Baby John, is set to release tomorrow, just in time for Christmas. Directed by Kalees, the film promises a gripping storyline and intense performances, with Dhawan playing the role of a fierce father, DCP Satya Verma. The plot revolves around Verma avenging the death of his son, who is killed by a powerful politician’s son, Babbar Sher. The film unfolds as Babbar Sher retaliates by targeting Satya’s family, leading to a thrilling battle to protect Satya’s daughter, Khushi.
In addition to Varun Dhawan, the film features a talented cast including Wamiqa Gabbi, Keerthy Suresh, and Jackie Shroff in pivotal roles. The movie has already created a buzz, and its release is expected to perform well at the box office, thanks to its Christmas release followed by a long weekend.
Impressive Advance Bookings and Box Office Projections
The advance booking for Baby John has already shown promising figures. According to industry tracker Sacnilk, the film has grossed Rs 1.32 crore through advance bookings. The total collection, including blocked seats, has already crossed the Rs 2 crore mark, standing at Rs 2.05 crore. The film will open across a total of 6,150 shows, with Gujarat leading the way with 1,256 shows, followed by Maharashtra and Delhi, which will have 1,148 and 833 shows, respectively.
In terms of revenue from advance bookings, Delhi has already generated Rs 33.11 lakh, while Mumbai has raked in Rs 24.33 lakh. The high number of bookings across major cities shows that there is significant anticipation for this action-packed drama.
Varun Dhawan Talks About the Christmas Release Date
During a press conference, Varun Dhawan shared his excitement about the movie’s release, especially as it coincides with Christmas. He revealed that the team had to fight for this coveted release date, expressing gratitude for the opportunity. “A strong backing is very much needed for Baby John. In today’s environment, if you have to bring a film, you need very strong production support. Otherwise, it gets very difficult to release a film. Nowadays, only larger-than-life films are being made, and it will be approximately 55 days after which a Hindi film is going to release,” Dhawan said.
He also acknowledged the historical significance of Christmas releases in Bollywood, particularly mentioning Aamir Khan, who has often had his films launch on this special date. “I always wanted one film of mine to be released on Christmas. We had to really fight and struggle to get this date. We are thankful to Aamir sir for giving us this date,” he added.
Salman Khan’s Cameo Appearance
Adding to the excitement, Baby John will feature Bollywood superstar Salman Khan in a special cameo role. Along with Salman, singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh will also make an appearance in the film’s song “Nain Mattakka.” This adds an extra layer of star power to the already high-profile cast.
What’s Next for Varun Dhawan?
After Baby John, Varun Dhawan is set to begin shooting for Border 2, a sequel to the popular action film. He is also working on a romantic movie with actress Janhvi Kapoor, making sure to diversify his roles in the coming months.
With its action-packed storyline, star-studded cast, and festive release date, Baby John is poised to make a significant impact at the box office. Fans are eagerly awaiting what promises to be a thrilling holiday blockbuster.
Anil Kapoor Unveils First Look at Action-Packed Drama Subedaar: A New Chapter in His Career
Veteran Bollywood star Anil Kapoor has just teased fans with the highly anticipated first official look at his upcoming film Subedaar. The action-packed drama promises to be another exciting chapter in Kapoor’s already diverse career, bringing a gripping narrative that delves deep into themes of resilience and courage.
The teaser, shared by Kapoor on his social media, has already sparked massive excitement among fans and film enthusiasts. In his post, he wrote, “Aa rahein hain! #Subedaar @AnilKapoor #RadhikkaMadan @sureshtriveni78 @vikramix @PrimeVideoIN @Abundantia_Ent @openingimage @akfcnetwork #PrajwalChandrashekar @saurabhtop #EeshaDanait #RaviTiwari,” creating a buzz on social media as anticipation builds for the film’s release.
Though the teaser is brief, it’s enough to leave viewers on the edge of their seats. The video opens with Anil Kapoor dragging a chair into a dimly lit room, building an undeniable tension in the air. As a group of hooligans tries to break into his home, Kapoor’s character, Subedaar Arjun Singh, remains calm and composed, seemingly preparing for an inevitable confrontation. With a hand poised in a gun-like stance, Kapoor subtly channels his past military experience, hinting at the inner warrior ready to protect his home and family at all costs. This moment sets the tone for the film, suggesting that Subedaar is more than just an action-packed thriller—it’s a fight for survival against both internal and external forces.
Subedaar is directed by Suresh Triveni, the critically acclaimed filmmaker behind hits like Tumhari Sulu and Jalsa. Triveni brings his unique storytelling style to the film, blending action and deep emotional beats to craft a story that’s as moving as it is intense. Co-written by Triveni alongside Prajwal Chandrashekar, Subedaar follows the journey of Subedaar Arjun Singh, a former soldier who finds himself facing battles not just on the frontlines, but also within his own home and family. The film touches on themes of courage, duty, and sacrifice, promising to resonate deeply with audiences seeking a story filled with both action and heart.
As the titular character, Anil Kapoor brings his trademark intensity and versatility to the role of Subedaar Arjun Singh. Known for his dynamic performances, Kapoor appears poised to deliver another memorable portrayal that will captivate audiences. The teaser alone shows him in a commanding presence, setting the stage for an exciting performance that promises to explore the complexities of both physical and emotional warfare.
Subedaar also features a talented cast, including Radhikka Madan, who will likely bring fresh energy to the screen, alongside Prajwal Chandrashekar, Eesha Danait, and Ravi Tiwari. The film is produced by Abundantia Entertainment and will stream exclusively on Prime Video, marking another major addition to the digital space. With its powerful narrative and strong performances, Subedaar is set to captivate a global audience, bringing an emotional and action-filled ride directly to viewers’ screens.
If the teaser is any indication, Subedaar is shaping up to be a must-watch for fans of action and intense drama. Anil Kapoor’s impressive versatility and the strong direction by Suresh Triveni suggest this film will be a thrilling and emotional experience. Get ready for a gripping journey as Subedaar arrives soon on Prime Video!
Stay tuned for more updates, and don’t miss the opportunity to witness this action-packed drama unfold.
The Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) recently hosted a glamorous preview night for its Arts Cafe on December 21, 2024, in Mumbai. This event saw a range of A-list celebrities from Bollywood, and one of the standout figures of the evening was Janhvi Kapoor. She attended the event with her sister, Khushi Kapoor, and both were admired for their stylish and elegant outfits.
The Arts Cafe at NMACC is a new venue that aims to blend culture, art, and creativity, offering a unique interactive space for guests. The preview event was a dazzling occasion, featuring renowned personalities such as Shah Rukh Khan, Gauri Khan, Katrina Kaif, Karan Johar, and many others. The evening’s atmosphere was both artistic and festive, with guests immersed in the creative energy of the space.
Janhvi Kapoor’s presence added extra glamour to the night, making it one of the most talked-about events in the city. The event not only showcased her fashionable look but also highlighted the cultural significance of the NMACC, which is designed to promote and celebrate art in various forms.
Kannada actor Upendra and actress Reeshma Nanaiah were spotted promoting their upcoming film “UI” in Juhu, Mumbai. The duo looked stylish as they interacted with fans and the media, generating excitement for the much-anticipated movie. “UI” has been creating a buzz for its unique concept and engaging storyline, making it one of the most awaited films in the Kannada film industry.
Upendra, known for his versatile performances, and Reeshma Nanaiah, a rising star, appeared to be in great spirits, sharing insights about their roles and the making of the film. Their Juhu appearance has only added to the growing hype around the movie. Fans are eagerly looking forward to the release!
Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan recently created a buzz at St. Andrews College while promoting his upcoming movie Baby John. Known for his electrifying energy and close connection with fans, Varun lit up the event with his charm and engaging personality.
The promotional event saw a massive turnout of students and fans, who were thrilled to interact with the actor. Varun entertained the crowd with anecdotes from the movie’s making, dance performances, and playful banter. His enthusiasm and approachable demeanor made the event a memorable experience for attendees.
As part of the promotion, Varun also highlighted the film’s unique storyline and his role, piquing the audience’s curiosity. The crowd erupted in cheers as Varun took selfies, answered questions, and danced to songs from the movie.
The Baby John promotion has gained significant momentum, with events like these showcasing Varun’s dedication to connecting with his audience. Fans are eagerly awaiting the film’s release, anticipating another blockbuster performance from the star.
Tamannah Bhatia and Vijay Varma were recently spotted together in Bandra, sparking interest among fans and media. The couple was seen after what appeared to be a dinner date, engaging with paparazzi and fans alike.
Several videos have emerged showcasing the duo’s outing, highlighting their chemistry and interactions with onlookers. This sighting has fueled discussions about their relationship status, as they have been linked romantically in recent months. The buzz around them continues to grow, particularly given their recent public appearances together.
Deepak Dua
Yash Raj Films’ Mardaani is the biggest solo female-led franchise in Hindi cinema that has garnered love and acclaim over 10 years now!
Today, on the release anniversary of Mardaani 2, YRF officially announced that it is making Mardaani 3 with Rani Mukerji again essaying the character of a daredevil cop Shivani Shivaji Roy. One of Indian cinema’s finest actors ever, Rani Mukerji, is the only actress to have a blockbuster franchise as a solo lead to her credit with Mardaani!
Rani says, “I’m thrilled to announce that we are starting the shooting of Mardaani 3 in April 2025″
Rani reveals Mardaani 3 will take the adrenaline rush several notches higher than the previous films!
She says, “When we set out to make Mardaani 3, we were hoping that we find a script that would take the experience of watching a Mardaani franchise film higher. I am really excited about what we have at hand and I’m only hoping that the audience too feels the same after watching Mardaani 3 in theatres!”
Rani adds, “Mardaani is an extremely loved franchise and we have a certain responsibility to deliver to the expectation that people have. We will do our best to live up to this. Mardaani 3 is dark, deadly and brutal.”
Aayush Gupta of The Railway Men fame has written the script of Mardaani 3 and it will be directed by Abhiraj Minawala, who has also been groomed by YRF. His potential was spotted by Aditya Chopra who first empowered him to assist on films like Band Baaja Baarat, Gunday, Sultan, Jab Tak Hai Jaan, Tiger 3 to name a few. Abhiraj is currently the Associate Director of War 2.
Aaliyah Kashyap, daughter of filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, and her fiancé Shane Gregoire recently hosted a grand wedding reception that became a star-studded affair.
The event was graced by several renowned Bollywood celebrities, including Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Meezaan Jafri, and Vineet Kumar Singh, among others.
The reception showcased a blend of glamour and elegance, with the celebrity guests dressed in their finest ensembles. Nawazuddin Siddiqui, known for his critically acclaimed performances, looked dapper as he mingled with the attendees.
Meezaan Jafri, a rising star in the industry, brought his youthful charm to the event, while Vineet Kumar Singh added his charismatic presence to the celebration.
The couple, Aaliyah and Shane, appeared radiant and joyful, receiving blessings and best wishes from the guests. The event was a perfect amalgamation of love, celebration, and Bollywood glitz, making it a memorable evening for everyone present.
