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Mumbai, April 2 (IANS) Actor Shashank Vyas remembered his late co-star Pratyusha Banerjee on her 10th death anniversary on April 1, sharing an emotional tribute on his social media account.

Taking to his social media account, Shashank shared a monochrome portrait of Pratyusha, where she is seen looking back over her shoulder.

The black-and-white picture added a nostalgic touch to the memory. Alongside the picture, he wrote, “Gone for 10 years, but never forgotten. You’ll always live in my memories.”

For the uninitiated, Shashank and Pratyusha rose to fame with the popular television show Balika Vadhu.

While Shashank played the role of Jagdish, Pratyusha essayed the iconic character of Anandi.

Their on-screen chemistry and performances were widely loved by audiences. The show revolved around the issue of child marriage, and became one of Indian television’s most impactful and long-running dramas.

Pratyusha Banerjee, who became a household name with Balika Vadhu, also appeared in shows like *Sasural Simar Ka and participated in reality television, including Bigg Boss 7.

Her untimely demise in 2016 shocked the industry and especially her fans. The actress reportedly died by suicide, with reports suggesting she was dealing with personal and relationship-related issues at that point of time.

Talking about Balika Vadhu, the show featured a strong ensemble cast including Surekha Sikri, Siddharth Shukla, Anup Soni, Smita Bansal, Avika Gor, Avinash Mukherjee and others.

Three of the show’s most iconic actors are unfortunately no longer alive.

Pratyusha Banerjee passed away in 2016, Surekha Sikri breathed her last in 2021 due to age-related ailments, and Siddharth Shukla passed away the same year, reportedly due to a heart attack.

–IANS

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Chennai, April 2 (IANS) The makers of director Harish Durairaj's eagerly awaited comedy family entertainer, featuring actors Arjun Das and Anna Ben in the lead, have now disclosed the character Imman Annachi plays in their film.

Taking to its Instagram page, Powerhouse Pictures, the production house producing the film, wrote, "Every street has a story in #ConCity. Meet #ImmanAnnachi as Chutti Anna. A film by @harish_durairaj, coming soon to theatres near you."

The makers also disclosed that well known film critic Baradwaj Rangan played a character called Rangan in their film.

A teaser that the makers had released earlier has triggered huge interest in the film.

The teaser opens with Arjun Das getting threatened over phone by a money lender. He questions Arjun Das on why he had stopped picking up his calls.

From the phone conversation that Arjun Das has with this person, it becomes evident that Arjun Das has fled with his family after locking his home. The money lender threatens him saying, "Do you think I can't find you? If you think you can cheat me of my money, no matter where you run to, I will come and cut your family members to pieces before your eyes." Arjun Das sternly tells him he won't pay and asks him to do what he can.

Soon after the conversation, Arjun Das loses his temper and starts hurling things he can lay his hands on in anger. When he picks up a small handy machine which looks like a receipt printer in a grocery store to hurl it, lighting strikes and it happens to touch the machine in Arjun Das's hand.

Soon after, everytime, he presses a button for a receipt, 500 Rupee notes begin to come out of the machine. Soon, Arjun Das is in a position to repay the money lender. But it is not just Arjun Das who has found out that he has a machine that can cough up money...

Written and directed by Harish Durairaj, the film will, apart from Arjun Das and Anna Ben, also feature Yogi Babu, Vadivukkarasi, Imman Annachi and Akhilan in pivotal roles.

On the technical front, the film will have music by Sean Roldan and cinematography by Aravind Viswanathan. Editing for the film is by Arul Moses A while production design is by Raj Kamal. Costumes in the film have been designed by Navaa Rambo Rajkumar while lyrics for the songs in the film have been penned by Mohan Rajan.

While the dances in the film have been choreographed by Santhosh, the fight sequences have been choreographed by Action Sandhosh.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 2 (IANS) On the occasion of Hanuman Jayanti on Thursday, the makers of the upcoming epic “Ramayana” unveiled the look of Lord Rama, played by Ranbir Kapoor. Calling it a “humbling experience,” the Bollywood star said that there is a purity about him that is very rare.

Ranbir on playing Rama, said in a statement: “I don’t think I’m here to represent Rama. I’m here to learn from him. There is a simplicity and purity to him that is very rare; and trying to understand and imbibe that has been a deeply humbling experience.”

The ‘Rama’ teaser marks a significant moment for audiences worldwide, bringing into focus a figure whose story has endured for over 5,000 years. Namit Malhotra-produced Ramayana is directed by Nitesh Tiwari and a two-part cinematic franchise.

Director Nitesh Tiwari said: “Ramayana’s greatness lies in its emotional richness. At its heart, it is not just about good and evil, but about choices, consequences, and the weight of doing what is right.”

He added: “Rama’s journey is deeply human and that is what we have tried to stay true to”

Rama represents the kind of hero the world rarely sees anymore. A hero who chooses duty over desire. Who walks away from power when it is right to do so. Who does what is necessary, even when it costs him everything.

Revered as Maryada Purushottama, Rama embodies dignity, compassion, and moral clarity - even in the face of exile, loss, and injustice. That is what makes him timeless.

Namit Malhotra, producer, shared: “The power of Rama’s story is not in what he conquers, but in what he lets go of. He represents a standard that is not easy, not convenient; but necessary.”

“He chooses duty over desire, truth over comfort, and sacrifice over self. That is why his story has endured for thousands of years, and why it continues to matter today.”

The film also stars Sai Pallavi, Yash, Ravie Dubey, Sunny Deol, Lara Dutta and Amitabh Bachchan in key roles.

The Ramayana has been retold in over 300 versions across cultures and regions worldwide.

Two music titans, Hans Zimmer and A. R. Rahman are joining forces for the film.

‘Ramayana’ is a two-part live-action cinematic universe being reimagined on the scale of the biggest tentpoles produced to date.

The film also features Hollywood’s top stunt directors Terry Notary (Avengers, Planet of the Apes) and Guy Norris (Mad Max: Fury Road, Furiosa), choreographing the epic battles between gods and demons.

‘Ramayana’ is being filmed for IMAX and will be released worldwide with Part 1 releasing in Diwali 2026 and Part 2 in Diwali 2027.

--IANS

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Chennai, April 2 (IANS) Well known producer, actor and singer S P B Charan, who is also the son of one of India's greatest singers, the legendary S P Balasubrahmanyam, has now penned a note of gratitude to SAMAM (Singers Association Malayalam Movies) for honouring his dad by unveiling a statue of his dad and inaugurating his memorial in Palakkad, Kerala.

Taking to his Instagram page to pen a post of gratitude, the well known producer and actor wrote, "Legends came together… for one legend. Appa’s statue unveiling & SPB Memorial inauguration in Palakkad — a moment we will cherish forever (folded hands image). 'Some voices never fade… they become eternal.' Yesterday was not just an event… it was a moment our family will carry forever."

SPB Charan further said, "In Palakkad, Appa’s statue was unveiled by Padma Shri M M Keeravani, and the SPB Memorial Park was inaugurated by Padma Bhushan K S Chithra and Padma Shri Hariharan. Seeing thousands gather with love, respect, and emotion… it truly felt like Appa is still living through every heart he touched."

S P B Charan, who is also a good singer himself, further went on to say, "Grateful to have singers Mano, Sujatha Mohan, Srinivas, Unni Menon, Madhu Balakrishnan, along with so many wonderful souls with us on this special day."

Charan thanked Vijay Yesudas, the son of another legendary singer K J Yesudas, for putting the event together. He wrote, "A very special thanks to VijayYesudas for coordinating with everyone and bringing together such incredible artists — it truly meant a lot to us. Thank you to the @samamofficially organisation and everyone who made this tribute possible. Also have to mention the great work of Sri. @unnikanayi shilpi."

He concluded the post saying, "Appa may be missed every day... but yesterday reminded us — he will never be forgotten. #SPB #SPBalasubrahmanyam #SPBliveson (LegendLivesOn, IndianMusic,MusicLegends,PlaybackSinger, EvergreenVoice, Palakkad, Kerala Events, Kerala Music, South Indian Music, Gratitude, Emotional Moment, Respect, LegacyLivesOn).

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 2 (IANS) Actor-comedian-filmmaker Vir Das, who made his directorial debut with “Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos”, has announced his first-ever found footage horror film titled “Baara Number.”

The upcoming project 'Baara Number' will see Vir Das collaborating once again with Kavi Shastri, with the duo co-directing the film. Known for their distinct storytelling approach, the pair is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the horror genre, focusing on a more layered and immersive narrative style.

The movie Baara Number is scheduled to go on floors in June, with its initial shooting schedule planned in Mumbai. Vir Das will also feature as part of a multi-character cast in the film.

As per a source close to IANS, the film is positioned as a found footage horror narrative, the project aims to move beyond conventional tropes, blending psychological depth with atmospheric storytelling.

The film has reportedly been in development for some time and is expected to offer a nuanced take on fear, exploring both external tension and internal human emotions.

Talking about his maiden directorial, Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos is produced under Aamir Khan Productions. The film stars Vir Das, Mithila Palkar, Mona Singh, Sharib Hashmi and Srushti Tawade. It marked the silver screen return of Imran Khan over ten years after he starred in Katti Batti.

The film follows Happy Patel, the adopted son of two gay British secret agents, who aspired to follow his fathers' footsteps, and join the MI7 covert agency, but failed, soon learns that he is of Indian origin.

He is assigned to Goa, on a mission, to rescue and retrieve a white woman who is being forced to work in a factory on developing a formula for a fairness cream by local donna Mama, who houses an inter-generational enmity with Happy, and is eager to settle scores.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 2 (IANS) Megastar Amitabh Bachchan has shared a note about the deeper meaning and evolution of his long-running blog, which he first began writing in 2008.

The icon, who wrote his first blog in April 2008, spoke about time, purpose, and consistency as he wrote: “... there is ever a time and place for all that needs to be done believed executed (sic)..”

He described his blog as more than just a platform calling it a space that connects him with people across the world. According to him, there is always “a right time and place” and the blog exists precisely in that perfect intersection of timing and expression.

“…and the time and place of the Blog that connects us all, is the right time, right place .. it takes you away at times , it snuggles on other times (sic).”

Despite life’s unpredictability, it continues to show up, maintaining a sense of discipline and presence. Summing up his journey, Bachchan noted that what initially started as a process of learning and exploration has now transformed into something much more profound.

“But ever tries to come and give attendance ..so something that began as a learning, has become the learned .. My love (sic),” he concluded the blog.

On the acting front, he is currently working on the sequel to “Kalki 2898 AD”.

Talking about Kalki 2898 AD, the 2024 epic mythological science fiction film by Nag Ashwin, he said: “Kalki 2 begun the work .. and shall ever cherish the love and affection of anticipated presence on the Sunday .. but hopefully shall be with all this coming Sunday .. My love.”

Kalki 2898 AD stars Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, and Disha Patani. Inspired by Hindu scriptures, the film serves as the first instalment in the planned Kalki Cinematic Universe.

Set in a dystopian future in the year 2898 AD in the city of Kashi, the story follows a group on a mission to protect lab subject SUM-80's unborn child, believed to be Kalki, the final incarnation of Vishnu.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 2 (IANS) Known for his discipline and love for sports, host Akshay Kumar found himself in the company of professional football defender Dalima on the recent episode of the quiz reality show Wheel of Fortune.

Akshay used the platform to humorously highlight how men can sometimes react dramatically on the football field, further delivering a hilarious critique of the acting skills often seen in men’s football.

While interacting with Dalima about her career as a professional defender, Akshay shared that he closely follows both men’s and women’s football. However, he couldn’t resist pointing out a stark difference in how players handle injuries.

He remarked that the players in the men's team sometimes are overly dramatic even with minor scratches.

“Itni acting karte hain! Thodi si scratch lagti hai aur aise girte hain jaise pata nahi kya ho gaya. Lagi nahi hoti hai unko, lekin aisi lagne ki acting karte hain, My God!”

Turning his attention to Dalima’s husband, who was present to support her, Akshay offered some unconventional marital advice. Drawing a parallel between Dalima’s role on the field and her husband’s role at home, he added, “Dalima toh professional defender hai, lekin aapko shaadi mein isse bhi bada defender banna hai!”

The comment left the couple and the audience in splits.

Talking about Akshay Kumar on the professional front, the actor is all set for his upcoming movie Bhoot Bangla that also stars Rajpal Yadav, Paresh Rawal, Tabu, Wamiqa Gabbi and late veteran star Asrani.

The movie directed by Priyadarshan, is all set to release on the 10th of April.

–IANS

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Mumbai, April 2 (IANS) Bengali superstar and Bollywood actor Jisshu Sengupta made a surprising revelation by saying that he does not enjoy watching himself on screen and has largely avoided viewing his own films over the years.

In an exclusive conversation with IANS, the Bengali superstar said, “I have not watched most of the films I have acted in, infact it's almost like I have never seen my own movies .

I hate watching myself. Actually, hate is a harsh word, but yes I don't like seeing myself on screen. So I avoid it.”

He added, “I think I have watched a couple of them. I love Tom and Jerry. I love watching Marvel and DC films, Batman, Superman. I enjoy those.”

He further said, “I like action films that are mindless. I don’t want to watch action films that have too much logic. These are the kinds of films I enjoy watching.”

Summing up his journey, Jisshu said, “By default, I have now spent almost 29 years in the industry, and next year it will be 30. But even today, I don’t watch films, especially my own.”

Known for his versatility, Jisshu Sengupta has been a prominent figure in the Bengali film industry for over two decades.

He has delivered notable performances in movies such as Chotushkone, Jaatishwar, Rajkahini, Byomkesh Bakshi films, Uma amongst others.

Talking about the superstar of Bengali cinema, Jisshu is all set to star in the upcoming movie Bhoot Bangla that also stars Akshay Kumar, Rajpal Yadav, Paresh Rawal, Tabu, Wamiqa Gabbi and late veteran star Asrani.

The movie is all set to release on the 10th of April.

–IANS

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Mumbai, April 2 (IANS) Actress and Punjab Kings co-owner Preity Zinta was over the moon after debutant Cooper Connolly delivered a stunning match-winning performance on his debut in the Indian Premier League 2026.

Preity took to her Instagram account, where she shared a string of images of the 22-year-old Australian cricketer and heaped praise on him for his composed and impactful innings, describing it as a “dream debut” that announced the arrival of a promising new talent.

“What a night last night turned out to be ! What a game & what a dream debut for 22 year old Cooper Connolly in IPL 2026. It was an impressive match winning knock 44 ball 72 that marked the arrival of this incredible young talent,” she wrote.

Preity highlighted that what stood out most was Connolly’s ability to read the game and maintain a calm mindset in high-pressure moments. She also expressed her delight at presenting him with the Player of the Match trophy, calling it a proud and joyful moment.

“What impressed me most about Cooper was not just the big & stylish shots he played, but his ability to read the game in the present, and keep a cool & calm head under pressure. It was truly my pleasure to present the Player of the match trophy to him & yes I couldn’t stop smiling,” she added.

Welcoming him warmly to both the league and the franchise, she added, “Welcome to the IPL and welcome to Punjab Kings Cooper. We are beyond thrilled to have you in Sadda Squad as our young Sher… Keep it up & bring it on. Looking forward to many more games & performances like this.”

Debutant Cooper Connolly struck a match-winning 72 not out in his first IPL outing as Punjab Kings made a winning start to IPL 2026 on April 1.

--IANS

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Los Angeles, April 2 (IANS) English actor d is giving a peek into his “love language lately”. The actor, 49, made the statement on social media after going public with a new relationship following his split from 40-year-old singer Katy Perry.

The actor confirmed the end of his relationship with Katy last year, with the pair continuing to co-parent their daughter Daisy, five, reports ‘Female First UK’.

He is now reported to be dating Swiss model Luisa Laemmel, 28, after the pair were seen together during a recent trip to Switzerland. In a new Instagram post, Orlando shared images from a snow-filled getaway alongside moments with his daughter, including a beach walk and a clip of Daisy in his arms watching the sunset.

As per ‘Female First UK’, the post also featured a female hand with red nail polish, a photograph of Grape Hyacinths, and an image of Orlando in a bathtub with his back turned. The trip is understood to have included a stay at the The Dolder Grand, where rooms can reach £13,700 per night, during a visit linked to a promotional event for Porsche.

The actor wrote, “Love language lately”. The images prompted responses from followers, with one writing, “Looks lovely on all levels”.

Another said, “Life looks amazing in your recovery phase”. A third shared, “Oh, Orlando, what a man you are”.

Orlando, who rose to fame in epic franchises including ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’, was first linked to Luisa last month after being seen leaving the Super Bowl together. The pair were spotted at Levi's Stadium, where an onlooker said they were “touchy-feely” during a date night.

Luisa, who has modelled for Calvin Klein, also shared images from the event on her social media, showing her in white jeans and a tan jacket. Inside the stadium, Orlando was seen with friends including Jamie Foxx.

--IANS

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