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Mumbai, April 23 (IANS) Actress Taapsee Pannu traveled to Barabanki on Wednesday for the fourth time with her husband Mathias Boe.

Taapsee visited a primary school Garri located in the Ramnagar development block of Barabanki. During this visit, she inspired the female students to empower themselves through education and sports. The 'Thappad' actress even provided them with educational materials, danced with them, and encouraged them to study hard and move forward in life. Taapsee also gifted bicycles to the girls, so that they could ride them to school.

When asked about the same, the 'Badla' actress shared, "I have been coming here to meet these girls every year since 2022, when I took on the responsibility of their education. They were in standard 1 back then and now they will be graduating from 5th to 6th standard, moving from the primary to the elementary school. I do not want any girl to opt out of school because their elementary school is far away. So, I decided to come and boost their morale and gift them bicycles so that they could travel to school on their own."

Under the Nani Kali project run by the Nandi Foundation, the education department collaborates to provide 2 hours of free tutoring after school for children at Primary School Garri in the Ramnagar block of Barabanki district. Tapsee has taken the responsibility of educating 60 of these girls with her badminton player husband.

Work-wise, Taapsee will next be seen in the much-anticipated drama "Gandhari”. Made under the direction of Devashish Makhija, the project has been written and produced by Kanika Dhillon.

"Gandhari" marks the sixth professional association between Kanika Dhillon and Taapsee Pannu after “Manmarziyaan,” “Haseen Dilruba,” and “Phir Aayi Hasseen Dilruba,” among others.

Co-starring Ishwak Singh, the project will share the journey of a mother's pursuit to find and rescue her kidnapped daughter, exploring themes of revenge and redemption.

"Gandhari" will be streaming on Netflix later this year.

--IANS

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Chennai, April 22 (IANS) Oscar winner A R Rahman, who often shuttles between cities for work, has now disclosed his strategy to handle traffic in Mumbai.

During his interview to a media entity, the ace music director was asked if he had ever felt exasperated in traffic. To this, Rahman said with a chuckle, "I never travel during the day."

When the interviewer wanted to reaffirm if Rahman was someone who preferred to work in the night, the music director agreed, saying, "Yeah, because in the night, there is no traffic. I can go anywhere. My click works only in the night."

The music director also went on to disclose that sometimes, in the early mornings, he would go to the Durgah and that before the traffic came back on, he would go back home and sleep.

"This has been from the age of Taal. Like from that time. Doing the same thing," Rahman said.

When Rahman was asked what time he woke up everyday, the music director said,"I wake up at... Nowadays, I am sleeping at night. But normally, I get up at 2.30 and go to sleep at 7.00."

The ace music director is at the moment working on several projects including director Mani Ratnam's magnum opus 'Thug Life', featuring actor Kamal Haasan in the lead.

Recently, during the launch of the first single from the film, Rahman said that he had been scoring for the film for the past four months and that he was still scoring for the film.

"Everyday I will be doing some things, sending it to Mani sir and asking him, 'Is it good or not?'," Rahman said and added, "It is Kamal sir's movie. He's done everything. It is like every scene for which I am scoring is looking at me and asking 'What are you gonna do?'."

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 22 (IANS) The east coast of Mumbai, which is known mostly for its docks and international trade, donned a crimson hue of glamour on Tuesday with the launch of the song 'Money Money' from the upcoming movie 'Raid 2.'

During the event, held inside the M2M ferry sailing off the Eastern Waterfront, music producer and rapper Yo Yo Honey Singh, who is often called the 'Bluetooth King of India,' revealed that he was late for the shoot of the song 'Aata Majhi Satakli' from the 2014 release 'Singham Returns.' However, Honey shared that while he feared being scolded by Bollywood superstar Ajay Devgn for being 4 hours late on the shoot, to his surprise, the actor calmly interacted with him and jammed over the song.

Honey broke out on the scene in 2011 with his chartbuster album 'International Villager.' By 2014, the singer was riding high on success, with practically every producer in Bollywood running to him to cash in on his popularity and ensure opening day collections owing to his sure-shot hit tracks. However, Honey witnessed a slump when he fell into the vortex of bipolar disorder. Eventually, he vanished from the scene as he became very elusive and stayed indoors. He spoke about this in detail in his Netflix documentary 'Yo Yo Honey Singh: Famous.'

'Money Money' marks Honey's second collaboration with Ajay after more than a decade. The film is a sequel to the 2018 blockbuster and sees Ajay in the lead role of an honest income tax officer who is after weeding out the money accumulated from illegal and corrupt lobbies.

The film is set to release in cinemas on May 1.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 22 (IANS) Politician Raghav Chadha has arrived in Shimla to spend some much-needed quality time with his wife, actress Parineeti Chopra, who is currently shooting for her upcoming project in the scenic hill station.

As Parineeti focuses on her work, Raghav’s visit provides the couple with a chance to relax and enjoy each other's company in the peaceful ambiance of Shimla. On Tuesday, Raghav took to his Instagram handle and shared photos from his visit to Jakhu Mandir, located atop Shimla’s highest peak.

For the caption, the AAP leader wrote, “Jai Bajrang Bali At the sacred Jakhu Mandir, nestled atop Shimla’s highest peak, a place steeped in divine legend. It is believed that Lord Hanuman ji took a brief halt here during his journey to fetch the Sanjeevani herb, and met Sadhu Yakhu Rishi ji meditating in the forest. Hanuman ji left behind his divine footprints here, and in their reverence, the temple was built centuries ago.”

In the photos, he is seen posing amidst the Lord Hanuman idol, performing aarti, and bowing his head in prayer. Although Parineeti doesn’t feature in the photos shared by Raghav, she is in Shimla for the shoot of her upcoming project. The actress has been actively sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses from her shoot on social media, giving fans a peek into her work life amidst the scenic beauty of Shimla.

Despite being busy with her professional commitments, it’s clear that Raghav and Parineeti are making the most of their time together in the hill station.

On April 21, Parineeti delighted fans with her sweet reaction after her husband, Raghav Chadha, was greeted with loud chants of "jiju" during a recent IPL match.

For the unversed, Parineeti and Raghav were in a relationship for some time before celebrating their love with a lavish destination wedding in September 2023. The couple often wins hearts with their endearing public displays of affection. Recently, Raghav joined in on a viral trend by recreating one of Parineeti’s iconic lines from her movie “Hasee Toh Phasee,” which had taken social media by storm.

“Everyone’s vibing. I had FOMO," Raghav Chadha wrote in the caption alongside a series of their joyful pictures, creating a beautiful juxtaposition of their happiest moments.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 22 (IANS) Ajay Devgn, Jacqueline Fernandez, and Yo Yo Honey Singh come together for the explosive party track ‘Money Money’ from the upcoming thriller ‘Raid 2.’

The track delivers a dynamic peek into the universe of ‘Raid 2,’ uniting Ajay, Yo Yo Honey Singh, and Jacqueline in a high-voltage collaboration. Packed with swagger, beats, and attitude, it’s poised to be a chart-topping anthem celebrating money, boldness, and boundless energy. Crafted entirely by Yo Yo Honey Singh, from writing and composition to vocals, 'Money Money' hits all the right notes with its pulsating beats, addictive chorus, and lavish visuals that exude opulence. Jacqueline dazzles with her glamour, Ajay commands attention with his signature presence, and Yo Yo’s energetic vibe ties it all together.

The trio delivers a high-octane mix that’s destined for chartbuster status. The song made its debut at an event aboard an M2M ferry in Mumbai. The star-studded affair saw the presence of Ajay Devgn, Yo Yo Honey Singh, and Aaman Devgan, along with producers Bhushan Kumar, Kumar Mangat Pathak, Abhishek Pathak, Krishan Kumar, and director Raj Kumar Gupta.

Directed by Raj Kumar Gupta, the film sets the stage for a high-stakes confrontation, much like its predecessor. Continuing the core theme, the sequel is inspired by real-life income-tax raids, focusing on the relentless efforts of IT officers collaborating with intelligence agencies to expose white-collar crimes. In the action thriller, Ajay Devgn reprises his iconic role as the income tax officer Amay Patnaik. This time around, he takes on his most ruthless opponent, Dadabhai (played by Riteish Deshmukh).

Originally announced in April 2020, the film was shot across various locations, including Mumbai, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi, during the first half of 2024.

“Raid 2” is backed by producers Bhushan Kumar, Kumar Mangat Pathak, Abhishek Pathak, and Krishan Kumar. The film is presented by Gulshan Kumar and T-Series in association with Panorama Studios.

The much-anticipated sequel is all set to hit theatres on 1st May 2025.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 21 (IANS) Well-known television actress, Deepika Singh talked about how her fashion sense has evolved over the years during an exclusive conversation with IANS.

She told IANS that she has always prioritized comfort over anything.

The 'Mangal Lakshmi' actress said, "Right from my childhood to today, I’m the same. Comfort is key for me. Of course, looks matter, but with the right hair and makeup, any outfit can shine. It’s more about how you carry yourself. If you’re not comfortable, it shows."

Deepika revealed that her off-camera style is extremely comfortable.

"I love wearing salwar kameez, especially since I’m also an Odissi dancer. I can dance anytime in it — it gives me flexibility and comfort," she shared.

When asked about any particular outfit or accessory that made her feel like a star on set, Deepika said, "maxi dresses or midi gowns".

Deepika disclosed that she does not follow fashion trends that much, however, she really admires good actors. She shared, "I watch their performances, their scenes, and I feel inspired by their craft".

Revealing if she has ever worn something completely impractical for a scene, Deepika refused saying that she has mostly played very simple and grounded characters, so she never had to wear something over-the-top or uncomfortable.

Talking about her go-to red carpet outfit, and her favorite designer, the 'Diya Aur Baati Hum' actress stated, "I have amazing stylists — Victor and Sohail. I really like their taste, and I trust them with my looks. Since I have a curvy body, I usually go for gowns or well-fitted dresses."

Deepika also opened up about her most memorable red carpet moment saying that it was the 2011 Star Parivaar Awards. Divulging the details, she added, "I wore a Rajasthani-style lehenga choli. My hair was open. It was my first appearance, and I was incredibly nervous — though I masked it by acting bubbly and smiling a lot!"

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 21 (IANS) Basking in the success of "Mom Tane Nai Samjay," actress Rashami Desai has commenced her new journey with Gujarati theater.

Rashami spilled her excitement regarding her new venture during an exclusive conversation with IANS.

Calling theatre the best place to work on your craft, she told IANS,"I am very excited about this to be honest. As an actor, I feel that the best place to literally work on your craft is theater. This has been a part of my wishlist for a long time, ever since my TV days to be honest. The will was always there but somehow the timings didn’t align. Finally, it is happening and I am really happy."

Rashami feels that theatre gives you massive exposure, training you as an actor to face anything that comes your way. "I feel that theater gives you exposure like never before and trains you for literally anything coming your way. When you are prepared as a 360 degree complete artiste, work feels all the way more interesting. My audience has been very kind and have given me a lot of love for my Gujarati film. I hope I receive the same love and adulation in my new journey with Gujarati theater. I am confident of emerging as a better artist after this experience. The live reaction of the audience is absolutely thrilling and motivating as a performer and it always gives more energy to an artiste. So, I am enjoying every bit of it and I will continue to enjoy every bit of it. Thanks and regards."

Circling back to "Mom Tane Nai Samjay", the family entertainer has been helmed by Dharmessh Mehta, and written by Radheshyam.

Backed by Diya Nahar, Chee Tang Joo, along with Harit Desai, the project also stars Amar Upadhyay in a significant role.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 21 (IANS) Janhvi Kapoor and Sidharth Malhotra have been romantically paired for the first time in the forthcoming entertainer, "Param Sundari".

Sundari (Janhvi) took her Param (Sidharth) for a fun scooter ride during the shoot of this much-awaited drama.

In the photos dropped by the stunner on her Instagram, she was seen dressed as Sundari in a red saree, along with a printed blouse, gajra, and sunglasses. Sidharth made for a handsome Param in an orange shirt and grey denim.

Treating the netizens with the BTS fun, Janhvi wrote in the comment section, "Param loves it when I take him for a ride #ParamSundari."

The Tushar Jalota's directorial has been set against the picturesque backwaters of Kerala. Billed as a romantic comedy, "Param Sundari" promises to be a rollercoaster of laughter, chaos, and unexpected twists. It is a cross-cultural love story that centers around a love tale where two contrasting worlds collide, a "North ka munda" meets a "South ki Sundari."

Scheduled to reach the cinema halls on July 25, the sneak peeks from the shoot of the movie have already piqued the interest of movie buffs.

Apart from this, Janhvi's lineup also includes "Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari" in which she will be seen sharing the screen with Varun Dhawan for the first time.

Produced by Karan Johar, Hiroo Yash Johar, and Apoorva Mehta, the core cast of the drama includes Sanya Malhotra, Abhinav Sharma, Maniesh Paul, and Manini Chadha.

Over and above this, Janhvi has also been paired opposite Ram Charan in his next "Peddi".

The film will enjoy the screen presence of Shiva Rajkumar, Jagapathi Babu, and Divyendu Sharma.

Written and directed by Buchi Babu Sana, "Peddi" has been presented by Mythri Movie Makers in collaboration with Sukumar Writings. Produced by Venkata Satish Kilaru under the Vriddhi Cinemas banner, the film features music by the legendary AR Rahman and cinematography by R. Rathnavelu.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 21 (IANS) Actress Vaani Kapoor opened up about her chemistry with 'Abir Gulaal’ co-star Fawad Khan.

Vaani and Fawad answered some fan questions during a live Instagram session.

When one of the netizens asked about her experience of working with Fawad, Vaani replied, "I just got lucky with the film and a great co-actor, and I think our chemistry on-screen felt very organic because I was like fully Gulaal on the set. My energy level and frequency are very similar to that of Fawad. I felt it did not feel forced at all. I really enjoyed it."

Calling the Pakistani actor a good listener, she added, "He has some patience to take my bullshit because I yap a lot- so he is good with listening"

"Abir Gulaal" will mark the first on-screen pairing of Vaani and Fawad.

Made under the direction of Aarti S Bagdi, the project has been produced by Vivek B Agrawal, Avantika Hari, and Rakesh Sippy.

"Abir Gulaal" is expected to release in the cinema halls on May 9.

Ace composer Amit Trivedi has scored the beautiful melodies for the much-awaited drama.

Turning back the clock, Fawad made his Bollywood debut back in 2014 opposite Sonam Kapoor in “Khoobsurat”.

Directed by Shashanka Ghosh, the movie was loosely based on the 1980 film of the same name. Aside from Fawad and Sonam, the project also saw Kirron Kher, Ratna Pathak Shah, and Aamir Raza Hussain in crucial roles.

In 2016, Fawad was seen in another B-town project, “Kapoor & Sons”, co-starring Alia Bhatt and Sidharth Malhotra.

This was followed by Karan Johar’s “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” featuring Ranbir Kapoor and Anushka Sharma.

However, “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil" turned out to be his last Bollywood release as in 2016, a ban on Pakistani artists in India took place due to the Uri attack and was upheld in 2019 by the All-Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA).

Now, Fawad is all set to make this Bollywood comeback with "Abir Gulaal".

On another note, Vaani will next be a part of Ajay Devgn starrer “Raid 2”.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 21 (IANS) Aside from being an actress, Soha Ali Khan also loves to spend her time teaching underprivileged kids.

The stunner used Instagram to reflect on her journey as a teacher. Soha revealed that she turned teacher for a day in Kolkata around a decade ago.

Soha was recently a part of an initiative to teach children from underprivileged communities, alongside actress Kalki Koechlin.

She mentioned on the photo-sharing app,"Reflecting on my journey with @pgshiksha, @proctergambleindia 's flagship CSR program, I’m inspired by its evolution in addressing learning gaps. In 2014, I turned teacher for a day in Kolkata, and back then, they were impacting 4 lakh children. Now, after 10 years, #PGShiksha is impacting 50 lakh children from underserved communities—an incredible testament to their dedication over the last 2 decades."

"Last week, it was wonderful to witness the unveiling of "Twenty Tales of Triumph," highlighting individuals transformed into doctors, thriving students, and future tech experts—all thanks to #PGShiksha initiatives that enabled them with education. Meeting Lata Tai was a personal highlight; her journey showcases the transformative power of education and the limitless potential within us all" Soha added.

Stressing the importance of education for every child, she concluded by saying, "For over two decades, #PGShiksha has remained committed to education that lifts, not limits, and are now continuing their endeavour to ensure every child learns with understanding."

On the work front, Soha recently delivered a powerful performance as Daasi Maa in Nushrratt Bharuccha starrer "Chhorii 2".

The sequel takes the story of Sakshi (Nushrratt) forward as she continues to protect her daughter from the horrors of her previous life.

Helmed by Vishal Furia, the movie also features Gashmeer Mahajani, Saurabh Goyal, Pallavi Ajay, Kuldeep Sareen, and Hardika Sharma in key roles, along with others.

Produced by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, Vikram Malhotra, and Jack Davis, "Chhorii 2" premiered on Prime Video on April 11.

--IANS

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