Thailand foreign minister Maris Sangiampongsa has batted for strong ties with India. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal he said, 'we have a long a history together. India is strong and strategic partner of Thailand'. He pointed  food security, energy security, Human security as areas of cooperation between the 2 countries. The minister recalled how India last year sent Buddha relics to Thailand. He said,'I would like to express my appreciation to India, to exhibit relics of Lord Buddha to Thailand. Very good opportunity to show the strong link'. He minister also spoke about fake Job scam, Myanmar, & upcoming Bimstec summit.

Thai FM Maris Sangiampongsa bats for strong ties with India

Poland's Deputy Foreign Minister and Secretary of State, Wladyslaw Teofil Bartoszewski has said that PM Modi can ask President Putin to withdraw Russian forces. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, the deputy FM pointed, that faced with threats of tactic Nuclear retaliation, US, China, India tried to dissuade Russia & that PM Modi against use of nuclear weapons. India-Poland ties have seen significant high-level visits, with PM Modi visiting the country last year. Bartoszewski spoke about India ties, ceasefire in Ukraine etc. Watch to know more!

Poland calls on India to mediate Russia-Ukraine war

The Norway Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide has said that his country can work with India for 'lasting peace'. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, he explained that the lasting peace has to be 'fair peace' & "not any peace at any price, it has to be lasting". 

The war in Ukraine is in 3 year and talks are underway for a ceasefire, led by the Trump administration. 

Terming India-Norway ties "close and developing" he pointed that Norway parliament is set to ratify India-EFTA trade pact.

Can work with India for lasting peace, Norway FM Eide on war in Ukraine

Superboys of Malegaon actors Adarsh Gourav and Shashank Arora speak to WION about their new film which has been helmed by Reema Kagti and backed by Zoya Akhtar and Farhan Akhtar. The two actors talk about the booming film industry of Malegaon, the lessons learn while the film, their favorite scenes from the film, the magic of cinema, and if OTT is taking over theatrical releases.

Superboys of Malegaon stars Adarsh Gaurav and Shashank Arora discuss their favourite scene, their biggest learning and magic of cinema

The iconic play, Mughal-e-Azam, has mesmerized audiences once again in Delhi with its grand musical production. Since its inception in 1960, this 16th-century tale has undergone a remarkable transformation - from script to stage, to screen, and now, back to stage as a spectacular musical.
WION goes behind the scenes to bring you an exclusive glimpse into the making of this magnificent production. We caught up with producer Deepesh Salgia and director Feroz Abbas Khan to talk about their vision and creative process and showcase the intense rehearsals and backstage preparations that bring this epic musical to life.
Report by Samarpita Das

'Mughal-E-Azam: The Musical': Inside India's first Broadway-style musical

He's someone who suffers from a condition that makes him immune to any kind of physical pain — he doesn't feel hot or cold, he doesn't feel any pain however hard you hit him, he's Nathan Caine. Hollywood actor Jack Quaid speaks to WION's Zeba Khan about his upcoming Paramount Pictures film Novocaine, how he makes for an unlikely action hero and why it's a must watch. Novocaine releases on March 14 in theatres.

Novocaine actor exclusive: Jack Quaid Interview

Italian Senator Matteo Gelmetti has termed India as a "perfect partner" of his country, especially in IT sector & pointed to personal camaraderie between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, the senator who is member of the India-Italy parliamentary friendship group said, "PM Modi knows European politics and he knows Giorgia Meloni very well....Giorgia Meloni  is, I think, the European best friend of PM Modi".  India-Italy relations have seen significant upward trajectory in the last several years, marked by a strengthening of diplomatic, economic, and strategic ties. In November 2024, during the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, PM Modi and Italian PM Meloni announced the Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029, outlining a roadmap for enhanced collaboration over the next five years. PM Meloni had visited India in March 2023, during which bilateral relationship was elevated to a Strategic Partnership.

India is Italy's "perfect partner", says Italian Senator Gelmetti: WION Exclusive Interview

Indian singer Shaan needs no introduction. From doing playback singing for some of the biggest stars to belting out one romantic hit after another and now venturing into independent songs, Shaan opens up about his latest single track &ldquo;Tera Ho Raha&rdquo;, how it captures the magic of first love and how he stays relevant in the ever-changing music landscape.
Here are the edited excerpts of the chat:
Q: Your latest single &ldquo;Tera Ho Raha&rdquo; captures the magic of first love. What inspired you to create this song?
A: "Tera Ho Raha", as you rightly mentioned, is a song about realising the feeling of falling in love. I am aware that many songs have been made about this emotion, but I was particularly enamored by the lines written by Rajesh Manthan: &ldquo;Jaise hi subah uthte, leta hu main hothon se naam tera&hellip; Meri zubaan pe din bhar, reh jata hai meetha sa ik zaika.&rdquo;
It is a very fresh take on that &ldquo;falling in love&rdquo; feeling, and I wanted to design a song in a minimalist indie-vibe that has its own charm.
<h2>New song takes reference from personal life</h2>
Q: Is the song rooted in personal experience?&nbsp;
A: Most love stories start from friendship and then progress to a point where they evolve into something more special. My love story is much like that, and that phase&mdash;where you contemplate how and when to take that leap&mdash;is always fresh in our minds and close to our hearts, no matter how many years pass by.
Q: The song beautifully portrays the transition from friendship to love. What do you think makes this transition so special?
A: While the song says &ldquo;Tera ho raha&rdquo; and not &ldquo;ho gaya,&rdquo; the video needed to capture a slice-of-life story that reflects that present continuous moment, very simply, as it happens in life. There is no grand location or dramatic professing of love&mdash;just a couple with a boy/girl next-door vibe. I believe the video captured the essence of the storytelling perfectly.
Q: &ldquo;Tera Ho Raha&rdquo; is your latest release under your independent label, Shaan Music Label. What motivated you to start your own label, and how do you see it evolving in the future?
A: Shaan Music is a passion project&mdash;it is not a business. I am not focused solely on profitability, but I always look forward to every release, hoping that listeners enjoy the song, that it keeps our connection alive, and ideally reaches a younger audience. In the future, I would love to introduce and encourage fresh talent on my label.
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/exclusive-sanya-malhotra-on-mrs-i-wont-change-anything-about-richa-8777210" aria-label="Exclusive Interview | Sanya Malhotra on Mrs: 'I won't change anything about Richa....'">Exclusive Interview | Sanya Malhotra on Mrs: 'I won't change anything about Richa....'</a></h2>
<h2>Staying relevant</h2>
Q: Your music has always been known for its ability to connect with listeners of all age groups. What do you think is the secret to creating music that resonates with such a wide audience?
A: I do not consider myself highly qualified as a singer or musician, nor do I try to over-intellectualise my music. I am particular that my songs remain original and carry a fresh appeal. Beyond that, I simply go with what makes me happy. While I do not know if my music resonates with a wider audience, I would love it if it did.
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/exclusive-dhoom-dhaam-star-pratik-gandhis-take-on-dos-and-donts-in-a-relationship-8755274" aria-label="Exclusive | Dhoom Dhaam star Pratik Gandhi's take on do's and don'ts in a relationship">Exclusive | Dhoom Dhaam star Pratik Gandhi's take on do's and don'ts in a relationship</a></h2>
Q: You&rsquo;ve had an illustrious career spanning several decades. How do you stay relevant and connected with your audience in the ever-changing music landscape?
A: It is in my nature not to dwell on my past achievements; I am always excited by the present moment. That is perhaps why I remain relevant, not only professionally but also as an individual.
&nbsp;

Entertainment Lifestyle In an exclusive chat, singer Shaan spoke about releasing new track about the magic of first love, keeping on his toes with the changing times and more.

Indian singer Shaan needs no introduction. From doing playback singing for some of the biggest stars to belting out one romantic hit after another and now venturing into independent songs, Shaan opens up about his latest single track “Tera Ho Raha”, how it captures the magic of first love and how he stays relevant in the ever-changing music landscape. Here are the edited excerpts of the chat: Q: Your latest single “Tera Ho Raha” captures the magic of first love. What inspired you to create this song? A: "Tera Ho Raha", as you rightly mentioned, is a song about realising the feeling of falling in love. I am aware that many songs have been made about this emotion, but I was particularly enamored by the lines written by Rajesh Manthan: “Jaise hi subah uthte, leta hu main hothon se naam tera… Meri zubaan pe din bhar, reh jata hai meetha sa ik zaika.” It is a very fresh take on that “falling in love” feeling, and I wanted to design a song in a minimalist indie-vibe that has its own charm. New song takes reference from personal life Q: Is the song rooted in personal experience? A: Most love stories start from friendship and then progress to a point where they evolve into something more special. My love story is much like that, and that phase—where you contemplate how and when to take that leap—is always fresh in our minds and close to our hearts, no matter how many years pass by. Q: The song beautifully portrays the transition from friendship to love. What do you think makes this transition so special? A: While the song says “Tera ho raha” and not “ho gaya,” the video needed to capture a slice-of-life story that reflects that present continuous moment, very simply, as it happens in life. There is no grand location or dramatic professing of love—just a couple with a boy/girl next-door vibe. I believe the video captured the essence of the storytelling perfectly. Q: “Tera Ho Raha” is your latest release under your independent label, Shaan Music Label. What motivated you to start your own label, and how do you see it evolving in the future? A: Shaan Music is a passion project—it is not a business. I am not focused solely on profitability, but I always look forward to every release, hoping that listeners enjoy the song, that it keeps our connection alive, and ideally reaches a younger audience. In the future, I would love to introduce and encourage fresh talent on my label. Exclusive Interview | Sanya Malhotra on Mrs: 'I won't change anything about Richa....' Staying relevant Q: Your music has always been known for its ability to connect with listeners of all age groups. What do you think is the secret to creating music that resonates with such a wide audience? A: I do not consider myself highly qualified as a singer or musician, nor do I try to over-intellectualise my music. I am particular that my songs remain original and carry a fresh appeal. Beyond that, I simply go with what makes me happy. While I do not know if my music resonates with a wider audience, I would love it if it did. Exclusive | Dhoom Dhaam star Pratik Gandhi's take on do's and don'ts in a relationship Q: You’ve had an illustrious career spanning several decades. How do you stay relevant and connected with your audience in the ever-changing music landscape? A: It is in my nature not to dwell on my past achievements; I am always excited by the present moment. That is perhaps why I remain relevant, not only professionally but also as an individual.

Interview | Shaan on how he stays relevant: 'I don't try to over-intellectualise my music'

Amid all the love and outpouring of support for Sanya Malhotra&rsquo;s film and the bold themes of patriarchy and sexism it tackles, ZEE5 film Mrs. has been at the top of trends and is possibly one of the most talked about movies of the past month.&nbsp;
Sanya Malhotra in an email interaction exclusively spoke to WION about the impact of her film Mrs. and if there&rsquo;s anything she&rsquo;d like to change about her role. Sanya Malhotra plays a woman named Richa who marries into what she thinks is a good family only to feel stifled and pressured against the weight of the expectations of running a house, killing her own ambitions and desires.&nbsp;
Here are the excerpts of the chat:
<h2>Homemakers are often made to feel invisible</h2>
Q: Mrs has become a conversation starter. How do you feel about the story resonating with audiences globally?
A: It&rsquo;s incredibly heartwarming to see Mrs. resonate with audiences across the world. Even though the story is deeply rooted in a household, its themes of sacrifice, identity, and unspoken resilience are universal. What makes it even more special is how this seemingly simple story is making people reflect on their own experiences. It shows that homemakers, no matter where they are, are often made to feel invisible, undervalued, and unappreciated despite the immense work they do.&nbsp;
The fact that people from different cultures connect with Richa&rsquo;s journey shows that these emotions transcend borders, sparking conversations that are long overdue.
<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/mrs-review-sanya-malhotras-film-is-deeply-impactful-much-like-the-malayalam-original-8697804" aria-label="Mrs. review: Sanya Malhotra's film is deeply impactful, much like the Malayalam original">Mrs. review: Sanya Malhotra's film is deeply impactful, much like the Malayalam original</a>
<h2>Sanya won't change anything about Richa</h2>
Q: Is there anything that you would change about Richa&rsquo;s portrayal in Mrs.?
A: Honestly, Mrs. was crafted with such thoughtfulness and authenticity that I wouldn&rsquo;t change anything about the portrayal. Every detail, from the nuances of Richa&rsquo;s journey to the way her emotions were captured, felt real and impactful. If anything, I just hope the film sparks even more conversations about the silent efforts of homemakers and the value of their work.&nbsp;
The beauty of the film lies in its honesty, and I&rsquo;m grateful to have been part of a story that feels so raw and relatable.
<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/entertainment/loved-mrs-here-are-sanya-malhotras-other-movies-that-you-cant-miss-8747409" aria-label="Loved Mrs? Here Are Sanya Malhotra's Other Movies That You Can't-Miss">Loved Mrs? Here Are Sanya Malhotra's Other Movies That You Can't-Miss</a>
Q: What was the set of Mrs. like? Can you share something that makes you happy about the film&rsquo;s set?
A: The set of Mrs. was filled with little moments that made the experience truly unforgettable. Every day, Arati (the director) and I had a small ritual&mdash;she would join me in my vanity for coffee and snacks, always surprising me with a thoughtful little gift. It was such a warm gesture that made each day feel extra special. Another highlight was the incredible food on set. Our chef prepared the most delicious meals, and I still find myself thinking about those flavours. These moments of connection and togetherness made the journey of Mrs. even more meaningful.
Watch the trailer of Mrs. here:
<iframe width="1280" height="596" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/komnC2EPIBc" title="Mrs Official Teaser | Sanya Malhotra | Nishant Dahiya | Kanwaljit Singh | Arati Kadav" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

Entertainment | Bollywood | Sanya Malhotra on Mrs.: Sanya discusses her role as Richa in Mrs. in this exclusive interview. She shares why she wouldn’t change a thing about the character and gives insights into her journey in the film.

Amid all the love and outpouring of support for Sanya Malhotra’s film and the bold themes of patriarchy and sexism it tackles, ZEE5 film Mrs. has been at the top of trends and is possibly one of the most talked about movies of the past month. Sanya Malhotra in an email interaction exclusively spoke to WION about the impact of her film Mrs. and if there’s anything she’d like to change about her role. Sanya Malhotra plays a woman named Richa who marries into what she thinks is a good family only to feel stifled and pressured against the weight of the expectations of running a house, killing her own ambitions and desires. Here are the excerpts of the chat: Homemakers are often made to feel invisible Q: Mrs has become a conversation starter. How do you feel about the story resonating with audiences globally? A: It’s incredibly heartwarming to see Mrs. resonate with audiences across the world. Even though the story is deeply rooted in a household, its themes of sacrifice, identity, and unspoken resilience are universal. What makes it even more special is how this seemingly simple story is making people reflect on their own experiences. It shows that homemakers, no matter where they are, are often made to feel invisible, undervalued, and unappreciated despite the immense work they do. The fact that people from different cultures connect with Richa’s journey shows that these emotions transcend borders, sparking conversations that are long overdue. Mrs. review: Sanya Malhotra's film is deeply impactful, much like the Malayalam original Sanya won't change anything about Richa Q: Is there anything that you would change about Richa’s portrayal in Mrs.? A: Honestly, Mrs. was crafted with such thoughtfulness and authenticity that I wouldn’t change anything about the portrayal. Every detail, from the nuances of Richa’s journey to the way her emotions were captured, felt real and impactful. If anything, I just hope the film sparks even more conversations about the silent efforts of homemakers and the value of their work. The beauty of the film lies in its honesty, and I’m grateful to have been part of a story that feels so raw and relatable. Loved Mrs? Here Are Sanya Malhotra's Other Movies That You Can't-Miss Q: What was the set of Mrs. like? Can you share something that makes you happy about the film’s set? A: The set of Mrs. was filled with little moments that made the experience truly unforgettable. Every day, Arati (the director) and I had a small ritual—she would join me in my vanity for coffee and snacks, always surprising me with a thoughtful little gift. It was such a warm gesture that made each day feel extra special. Another highlight was the incredible food on set. Our chef prepared the most delicious meals, and I still find myself thinking about those flavours. These moments of connection and togetherness made the journey of Mrs. even more meaningful. Watch the trailer of Mrs. here:

Exclusive Interview | Sanya Malhotra on Mrs: 'I won't change anything about Richa....'

Vivek Ramaswamy, American entrepreneur and former presidential candidate, has been trolled as he was seen barefoot at an interview. The interview video, which was live streamed last year, has been making rounds on social media.&nbsp;
The video has sparked a wave of strong reactions on social media, with some calling him "uncivilised" and "anti-American".&nbsp;
Ramaswamy is currently running for the governor of Ohio following 2024 US Presidential elections.
One of the users wrote, "Vivek will never be governor of Ohio. This is unacceptable for America."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-revive-our-conviction-vivek-ramaswamy-joins-ohio-governor-race-8754588">'Will revive our conviction': Vivek Ramaswamy joins Ohio governor race</a>
Another commented, "Maybe at least have some socks on while you interview for a position in the most powerful empire on the planet, yeah?"&nbsp;
While a third user wrote, "Vivek lectures us about education while barefoot. Uncivilised."
Commentator Ian Miles Cheong quickly defended Ramaswamy, calling it the "dumbest argument" he's heard.
He further pointed out that going barefoot in one's own home is hardly anti-American.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-meets-india-american-entrepreneur-vivek-ramaswamy-in-us-8719088">PM Modi meets Indian-American entrepreneur-politician Vivek Ramaswamy in US</a>
&ldquo;I guess too many people grew up on sitcoms where they wear their shoes in bed," he added.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The dumbest argument I&rsquo;ve heard against Vivek is that going barefoot in your own house is anti-American. I guess too many people grew up on sitcoms where they wear their shoes in bed. <a href="https://t.co/JVfJMa6VKe">pic.twitter.com/JVfJMa6VKe</a>
&mdash; Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) <a href="https://twitter.com/stillgray/status/1895485277403287798?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2025</a></blockquote>
Ramaswamy himself addressed the backlash, saying, "This is America, folks. I let the dogs out in my house when I feel like it."
His remark was commended by some, while, others criticised it.&nbsp;
One user wrote, "Vivek showed extreme class when Coulter stated flat out because of his race she would not vote for him. He kept the conversation going and never fell into an offended or victim mentality. Well done by him."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alleged-friction-white-house-confirms-vivek-ramaswamy-wont-serve-in-doge-8639030">Result of friction? White House confirms Vivek Ramaswamy won't serve in DOGE</a>
Many other users also came to support Ramaswamy and pointed out that removing shoes indoors is a common practice in many cultures, including South and East Asia.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Nearly all Indians go barefoot in their own homes. There's nothing wrong with it. Just a cultural thing&rdquo;, a user posted.&nbsp;
Another user said, "&ldquo;In Indian tradition, it is customary to take off your shoes before entering someone's home, considered a sign of respect and hygiene, as it prevents bringing dirt and germs from outside into the house; this practice is widely followed."
Further, political commentator Kim Iversen also joined the debate, saying, "I understand this is a &lsquo;culture' thing, but you non-Asians wearing shoes in your homes need a culture shift."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ohio-restricts-transgender-students-from-using-multiperson-bathrooms-779779">Ohio restricts transgender students from using multiperson bathrooms</a>
Iversen added that in her own home, shoes are not allowed, and that socks are also prohibited due to the risk of slipping on hardwood floors.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, trending: Many other users also came to support Ramaswamy and pointed out that removing shoes indoors is a common practice in many cultures, including South and East Asia.

Vivek Ramaswamy, American entrepreneur and former presidential candidate, has been trolled as he was seen barefoot at an interview. The interview video, which was live streamed last year, has been making rounds on social media. The video has sparked a wave of strong reactions on social media, with some calling him "uncivilised" and "anti-American". Ramaswamy is currently running for the governor of Ohio following 2024 US Presidential elections. One of the users wrote, "Vivek will never be governor of Ohio. This is unacceptable for America." Also read: 'Will revive our conviction': Vivek Ramaswamy joins Ohio governor race Another commented, "Maybe at least have some socks on while you interview for a position in the most powerful empire on the planet, yeah?" While a third user wrote, "Vivek lectures us about education while barefoot. Uncivilised." Commentator Ian Miles Cheong quickly defended Ramaswamy, calling it the "dumbest argument" he's heard. He further pointed out that going barefoot in one's own home is hardly anti-American. Also read: PM Modi meets Indian-American entrepreneur-politician Vivek Ramaswamy in US “I guess too many people grew up on sitcoms where they wear their shoes in bed," he added. The dumbest argument I’ve heard against Vivek is that going barefoot in your own house is anti-American. I guess too many people grew up on sitcoms where they wear their shoes in bed. pic.twitter.com/JVfJMa6VKe — Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) February 28, 2025 Ramaswamy himself addressed the backlash, saying, "This is America, folks. I let the dogs out in my house when I feel like it." His remark was commended by some, while, others criticised it. One user wrote, "Vivek showed extreme class when Coulter stated flat out because of his race she would not vote for him. He kept the conversation going and never fell into an offended or victim mentality. Well done by him." Also read: Result of friction? White House confirms Vivek Ramaswamy won't serve in DOGE Many other users also came to support Ramaswamy and pointed out that removing shoes indoors is a common practice in many cultures, including South and East Asia. “Nearly all Indians go barefoot in their own homes. There's nothing wrong with it. Just a cultural thing”, a user posted. Another user said, "“In Indian tradition, it is customary to take off your shoes before entering someone's home, considered a sign of respect and hygiene, as it prevents bringing dirt and germs from outside into the house; this practice is widely followed." Further, political commentator Kim Iversen also joined the debate, saying, "I understand this is a ‘culture' thing, but you non-Asians wearing shoes in your homes need a culture shift." Also read: Ohio restricts transgender students from using multiperson bathrooms Iversen added that in her own home, shoes are not allowed, and that socks are also prohibited due to the risk of slipping on hardwood floors. (With inputs from agencies)

'Uncivilised, anti-American': Vivek Ramaswamy faces backlash for appearing barefoot in interview | See HERE

Relationships are tricky, and actress Plabita Borthakur would agree that it always takes a lot more than just romance to keep a relationship alive. Plabita recently featured in ZEE5 original web show Pyaar Testing, which takes an interesting look at why it&rsquo;s pivotal for two individuals in love to guide their relationship how they want to without succumbing to external pressures and societal forces.&nbsp;
Pyaar Testing in the words of Plabita explores the colours of Jaipur, tells the story of a Rajput family and how tradition meets modern understanding of romance. Plabita shares her understanding of whether society should draw a line while commenting on a couple&rsquo;s choice of expression of love, what her show stands for, and why communication is key to a successful relationship.&nbsp;
Here are the edited excerpts of the chat:
Q: Plabita, where should we draw the line in letting society dictate what's okay and what's not okay in a relationship?&nbsp;
A: I don't think there is a line because there shouldn't be anything that the society should be able to dictate for any relationship because a relationship is purely between two people, and I don't think anybody except those two concerning persons has anything to contribute in that relationship because, as a society or as an outsider, we do not know what their lives are like. We do not know what they want from their relationship. I don't think we as a society have any right to dictate or have an opinion about somebody else's relationship.
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/exclusive-dhoom-dhaam-star-pratik-gandhis-take-on-dos-and-donts-in-a-relationship-8755274" aria-label="Exclusive| Dhoom Dhaam star Pratik Gandhi's take on Do's and Don'ts in a relationship">Exclusive | Dhoom Dhaam star Pratik Gandhi's take on Do's and Don'ts in a relationship</a>
<h2>Plabita's musts for a healthy relationship</h2>
Q: What are some things that are non-negotiable for you in your romantic partner, things that tick you off?&nbsp;
A: Non-negotiable for me is communication. I feel that is one of the most important thing in a relationship because if we can freely communicate and try to understand the other person's point of view, it&rsquo;s a huge step towards a healthier relationship. Another thing very important to me is the willingness to work on the relationship because I feel any relationship needs work, be it one with parents, siblings or friends. I don't believe we should take any relationship for granted, and I definitely would love my partner to be willing to work on our relationship so we can grow together as a couple.&nbsp;
<h2>Do live-ins work?</h2>
Q: How do you feel about the idea of a live-in relationship personally?&nbsp;
A: I feel if two consenting people want to live together, I am really no one to have an opinion on other people and their relationships. If they want to share a common space, I think it's great, and it's also a good way to understand if they're compatible before getting married and committing.
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/saba-azad-exclusive-interview-on-playing-maya-in-crime-beat-being-socially-awkward-and-her-love-for-delhi-and-its-food-8751788" aria-label="Saba Azad exclusive Interview on playing journo in new OTT show, being socially awkward and her love for Delhi's food">Saba Azad exclusive Interview on playing journo in new OTT show, being socially awkward and her love for Delhi's food</a>
Watch the trailer for Pyaar Testing:
<iframe width="1280" height="596" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1j-Wm01UqZM" title="Pyaar Testing | Official Trailer | A ZEE5 Original | Plabita B, Satyajeet D | Watch Now on ZEE5" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Q: What, according to you, is the best thing about Pyaar Testing?
A: I love the acceptance bit. In the show, we get to see two different generations. It&rsquo;s like the perfect amalgamation of tradition and modern and how each generation takes a step towards understanding or being accepting of the other.&nbsp;
Pyaar Testing is currently streaming on ZEE5. The OTT comedy series is directed by Shiva Varma and Saptaraj Chakraborty. It stars Satyajeet Dubey and Plabita Borthakur in leading roles.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Entertainment Bollywood In an exclusive chat, Plabita Borthakur who we saw in ZEE5 show Pyaar Testing opened up about why live-in relationships are amazing.

Relationships are tricky, and actress Plabita Borthakur would agree that it always takes a lot more than just romance to keep a relationship alive. Plabita recently featured in ZEE5 original web show Pyaar Testing, which takes an interesting look at why it’s pivotal for two individuals in love to guide their relationship how they want to without succumbing to external pressures and societal forces. Pyaar Testing in the words of Plabita explores the colours of Jaipur, tells the story of a Rajput family and how tradition meets modern understanding of romance. Plabita shares her understanding of whether society should draw a line while commenting on a couple’s choice of expression of love, what her show stands for, and why communication is key to a successful relationship. Here are the edited excerpts of the chat: Q: Plabita, where should we draw the line in letting society dictate what's okay and what's not okay in a relationship? A: I don't think there is a line because there shouldn't be anything that the society should be able to dictate for any relationship because a relationship is purely between two people, and I don't think anybody except those two concerning persons has anything to contribute in that relationship because, as a society or as an outsider, we do not know what their lives are like. We do not know what they want from their relationship. I don't think we as a society have any right to dictate or have an opinion about somebody else's relationship. Also read: Exclusive | Dhoom Dhaam star Pratik Gandhi's take on Do's and Don'ts in a relationship Plabita's musts for a healthy relationship Q: What are some things that are non-negotiable for you in your romantic partner, things that tick you off? A: Non-negotiable for me is communication. I feel that is one of the most important thing in a relationship because if we can freely communicate and try to understand the other person's point of view, it’s a huge step towards a healthier relationship. Another thing very important to me is the willingness to work on the relationship because I feel any relationship needs work, be it one with parents, siblings or friends. I don't believe we should take any relationship for granted, and I definitely would love my partner to be willing to work on our relationship so we can grow together as a couple. Do live-ins work? Q: How do you feel about the idea of a live-in relationship personally? A: I feel if two consenting people want to live together, I am really no one to have an opinion on other people and their relationships. If they want to share a common space, I think it's great, and it's also a good way to understand if they're compatible before getting married and committing. Also read: Saba Azad exclusive Interview on playing journo in new OTT show, being socially awkward and her love for Delhi's food Watch the trailer for Pyaar Testing: Q: What, according to you, is the best thing about Pyaar Testing? A: I love the acceptance bit. In the show, we get to see two different generations. It’s like the perfect amalgamation of tradition and modern and how each generation takes a step towards understanding or being accepting of the other. Pyaar Testing is currently streaming on ZEE5. The OTT comedy series is directed by Shiva Varma and Saptaraj Chakraborty. It stars Satyajeet Dubey and Plabita Borthakur in leading roles.

Interview | Plabita Borthakur: Society is no one to dictate anything for two people in love

From Harshad Mehta&rsquo;s Scam 1992 on SonyLIV to Netflix film Dhoom Dhaam, Pratik Gandhi agrees it&rsquo;s been a &ldquo;gratifying journey&rdquo;. Looking back at five years since his role as scamster Harshad Mehta made everyone look up and take him seriously, Pratik pondered fondly at the time he got to spend behind camera playing characters, bringing stories to life and nurturing the actor within him. &ldquo;I feel ecstatic. I feel absolute satisfaction when I look back at my journey as an actor, since even before Scam,&rdquo; reflected Pratik on his filmography.&nbsp;
Pratik recently starred in Netflix&rsquo;s Dhoom Dhaam opposite Yami Gautam in which he plays a simple boy who is a veterinarian by profession, eats vegetarian food because he doesn&rsquo;t want to eat his patients, has multiple phobias, including those of height and closed spaces, and has never lived his life adventurously. In an exclusive chat, Pratik Gandhi spoke about exploring heroism through the film, why being a &lsquo;nice guy&rsquo; is a virtue and what according to him are some do&rsquo;s and don'ts in a romantic relationship.&nbsp;
Here are the edited excerpts of our chat:&nbsp;
Q: Why did you say yes to Dhoom Dhaam?&nbsp;
A: It's a unique film in the sense that we've seen rom-coms in the past and rom-com is a genre that all generations have always loved. But the film offered me a character who is very unique, he portrays heroism in a different way. The film establishes that heroism is not always being macho and alpha. It&rsquo;s not about picking fights. Hero is someone who also avoids fights. Hero is someone who can be a safety net for others. I am glad I got to explore that side of heroism via my character Veer.&nbsp;
<h2>Veer, a hero who confirms his phobias and fears</h2>
Q: Who is Veer to you?
A: Veer to me is a real hero, and the most interesting thing is that we all know such people around us. Someone with a good physique doesn't necessarily have to fight. He can be man enough to confirm his phobias and fears. He&rsquo;s someone who can easily cry. Veer is someone we see every day. The only thing is that we don't see them as heroes.&nbsp;
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/580x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/a3f3a3c7-413.jpg" alt="Veer" style="width: 580px;">
Veer is a nice guy. Sadly, being nice is no longer a compliment. But I feel being a nice guy is a virtue. Nice guys need to be celebrated.&nbsp;
You know, I've seen my father, who was equally vulnerable but a very strong man. Not just physically, he was very strong mentally. I am sure that&rsquo;s the case with all our fathers. We have never seen our fathers with six packs, but they are still our heroes.&nbsp;
Q: Is there something you don't like about him?&nbsp;
A: Yes, there are certain things. Veer is a stickler for rules. I know you have to follow rules, but not at the time when somebody is behind you with a gun in his hand, but I guess he's too hardwired to follow rules. If put in the same situation (in Dhoom Dhaam), I would have actually reacted the way Koyal (Yami Gautam) did.&nbsp;
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/saba-azad-exclusive-interview-on-playing-maya-in-crime-beat-being-socially-awkward-and-her-love-for-delhi-and-its-food-8751788" aria-label="Saba Azad exclusive Interview on playing journo in new OTT show, being socially awkward and her love for Delhi's food">Saba Azad exclusive Interview on playing journo in new OTT show, being socially awkward and her love for Delhi's food</a>
Q: Veer and Koyal start off their marriage on a crazy adventure. Their first night as a married couple has a lot of drama. Do you think any regular real-life couple could survive so much drama on the first night of their wedding?
A: Oh, that's a very tricky one, actually. Had they known each other, things would have been different, but considering it was their first night as a couple, it&rsquo;s too much for anyone. I would like to say good luck to anyone who will go through something like this in real life.&nbsp;
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/580x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/b0803fde-15b.jpg" alt="Dhoom Dhaam" style="width: 580px;">
<h2>Fun on Dhoom Dhaam set</h2>
Q: What&rsquo;s something fun you can share from the sets of Dhoom Dhaam?&nbsp;
A: Don&rsquo;t tell Yami I told you this but she&rsquo;s said in all interviews that she&rsquo;s very far from her character Koyal but I feel that there is a little bit of Koyal&rsquo;s personality in Yami. Yami is a sleeper cell of Koyal. If that can be awakened, then it can be disastrous. She has the potential to become Koyal.
<h2>Pratik Gandhi's guide to successful romance&nbsp;</h2>
What works
Q: What according to you are some things that make a romantic relationship successful?
A: Acceptance and patience. If you can accept a person as is, I guess most of the job is done. Then you just need patience for the tough days. When I see around me, among my friends and a lot of family members, separation has become very common. Most of the time I personally feel as a third person when I listen to their stories or their incidents, that if they showed a little more patience and love, they would have solved the issue.
In a relationship if you keep that door open, there is always a chance of walking out. If you always have that option, then you will never try to work it out. But relationships are complex. I think it's different for everybody.
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/exclusive-tanya-maniktala-on-revisiting-classic-old-romance-with-palki-mein-song-from-khal-nayak-with-ishwak-singh-8729284" aria-label="Exclusive | Tanya Maniktala on revisiting classic old romance with Palki Mein.....song from Khal Nayak with Ishwak Singh">Exclusive | Tanya Maniktala on revisiting classic old romance with Palki Mein.....song from Khal Nayak with Ishwak Singh</a>
Watch the trailer for Dhoom Dhaam here:
<iframe width="1280" height="596" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6RT3cB3T74w" title="Dhoom Dhaam | Official Trailer | Yami Gautam, Pratik Gandhi | Netflix India" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
What doesn't
Q: What is a dealbreaker for you in relationships?
A: For me, the dealbreaker is intention and trust. If there is no intention, if the intentions are wrong, then it'll never work out. So don't force.
Q: Do you believe in the idea of opposites attract in romantic relationships? In Dhoom Dhaam too, Veer and Koyal are poles apart in their expression of individuality and yet they fall in love.&nbsp;
A: Yes, totally. The logic for it, the way I understand it, is that if you don't have something in you as a person, then that is something that you would look for in your partner. When two people are too similar, they can be good friends. In a romantic relationship, I would get bored if I married someone like me. In my opinion, it will never work.
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/580x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/358f85a8-cc5.jpg" alt="Dhoom " style="width: 580px;">
Dhoom Dhaam premiered on Netflix on February 14. The film stars Yami Gautam, Pratik Gandhi, Pavitra Sarkar, and Eijaz Khan in pivotal roles.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Entertainment Bollywood Interview From why being a nice guy is a 'virtue' to what makes or breaks a relationship for him, Dhoom Dhaam actor Pratik Gandhi opens up on his new film.

From Harshad Mehta’s Scam 1992 on SonyLIV to Netflix film Dhoom Dhaam, Pratik Gandhi agrees it’s been a “gratifying journey”. Looking back at five years since his role as scamster Harshad Mehta made everyone look up and take him seriously, Pratik pondered fondly at the time he got to spend behind camera playing characters, bringing stories to life and nurturing the actor within him. “I feel ecstatic. I feel absolute satisfaction when I look back at my journey as an actor, since even before Scam,” reflected Pratik on his filmography. Pratik recently starred in Netflix’s Dhoom Dhaam opposite Yami Gautam in which he plays a simple boy who is a veterinarian by profession, eats vegetarian food because he doesn’t want to eat his patients, has multiple phobias, including those of height and closed spaces, and has never lived his life adventurously. In an exclusive chat, Pratik Gandhi spoke about exploring heroism through the film, why being a ‘nice guy’ is a virtue and what according to him are some do’s and don'ts in a romantic relationship. Here are the edited excerpts of our chat: Q: Why did you say yes to Dhoom Dhaam? A: It's a unique film in the sense that we've seen rom-coms in the past and rom-com is a genre that all generations have always loved. But the film offered me a character who is very unique, he portrays heroism in a different way. The film establishes that heroism is not always being macho and alpha. It’s not about picking fights. Hero is someone who also avoids fights. Hero is someone who can be a safety net for others. I am glad I got to explore that side of heroism via my character Veer. Veer, a hero who confirms his phobias and fears Q: Who is Veer to you? A: Veer to me is a real hero, and the most interesting thing is that we all know such people around us. Someone with a good physique doesn't necessarily have to fight. He can be man enough to confirm his phobias and fears. He’s someone who can easily cry. Veer is someone we see every day. The only thing is that we don't see them as heroes. Veer is a nice guy. Sadly, being nice is no longer a compliment. But I feel being a nice guy is a virtue. Nice guys need to be celebrated. You know, I've seen my father, who was equally vulnerable but a very strong man. Not just physically, he was very strong mentally. I am sure that’s the case with all our fathers. We have never seen our fathers with six packs, but they are still our heroes. Q: Is there something you don't like about him? A: Yes, there are certain things. Veer is a stickler for rules. I know you have to follow rules, but not at the time when somebody is behind you with a gun in his hand, but I guess he's too hardwired to follow rules. If put in the same situation (in Dhoom Dhaam), I would have actually reacted the way Koyal (Yami Gautam) did. Also read: Saba Azad exclusive Interview on playing journo in new OTT show, being socially awkward and her love for Delhi's food Q: Veer and Koyal start off their marriage on a crazy adventure. Their first night as a married couple has a lot of drama. Do you think any regular real-life couple could survive so much drama on the first night of their wedding? A: Oh, that's a very tricky one, actually. Had they known each other, things would have been different, but considering it was their first night as a couple, it’s too much for anyone. I would like to say good luck to anyone who will go through something like this in real life. Fun on Dhoom Dhaam set Q: What’s something fun you can share from the sets of Dhoom Dhaam? A: Don’t tell Yami I told you this but she’s said in all interviews that she’s very far from her character Koyal but I feel that there is a little bit of Koyal’s personality in Yami. Yami is a sleeper cell of Koyal. If that can be awakened, then it can be disastrous. She has the potential to become Koyal. Pratik Gandhi's guide to successful romance What works Q: What according to you are some things that make a romantic relationship successful? A: Acceptance and patience. If you can accept a person as is, I guess most of the job is done. Then you just need patience for the tough days. When I see around me, among my friends and a lot of family members, separation has become very common. Most of the time I personally feel as a third person when I listen to their stories or their incidents, that if they showed a little more patience and love, they would have solved the issue. In a relationship if you keep that door open, there is always a chance of walking out. If you always have that option, then you will never try to work it out. But relationships are complex. I think it's different for everybody. Also read: Exclusive | Tanya Maniktala on revisiting classic old romance with Palki Mein.....song from Khal Nayak with Ishwak Singh Watch the trailer for Dhoom Dhaam here: What doesn't Q: What is a dealbreaker for you in relationships? A: For me, the dealbreaker is intention and trust. If there is no intention, if the intentions are wrong, then it'll never work out. So don't force. Q: Do you believe in the idea of opposites attract in romantic relationships? In Dhoom Dhaam too, Veer and Koyal are poles apart in their expression of individuality and yet they fall in love. A: Yes, totally. The logic for it, the way I understand it, is that if you don't have something in you as a person, then that is something that you would look for in your partner. When two people are too similar, they can be good friends. In a romantic relationship, I would get bored if I married someone like me. In my opinion, it will never work. Dhoom Dhaam premiered on Netflix on February 14. The film stars Yami Gautam, Pratik Gandhi, Pavitra Sarkar, and Eijaz Khan in pivotal roles.

Exclusive | Dhoom Dhaam star Pratik Gandhi's take on do's and don'ts in a relationship

Is there anything that Saba Azad can&rsquo;t do? She sings, she acts, she does theatre, she wants to direct, and she&rsquo;s also a trained dancer. While she enjoys dipping her fingers in the pie, Saba maintains that she is socially awkward and doesn&rsquo;t love the idea of cameras following her.&nbsp;
Following the release of her recent ZEE5 show Crime Beat, the quirky and chirpy actress spoke about things dear to her, playing a journalist named Maya in Crime Beat, being unabashedly real about the lesser opportunities coming her way and a surprise role we will see her play very soon. In an exclusive conversation, Saba Azad let her guard down and told us about her favourite places in Delhi and her favourite things to eat when she&rsquo;s in &lsquo;Dilli&rsquo;.&nbsp;
Here are the edited excerpts of our chat:&nbsp;
Q: Saba, you play a journalist in ZEE5&rsquo;s Crime Beat. What was the experience like?
A: It was a no brainer for me to say yes to the project. I was told it's a Sudhir Mishra show and was based on a novel. I read the novel, I read the script and I knew I was doing it.&nbsp;
As for the role, I know it&rsquo;s set in the world of journalism, but the idea was to get inside the character, no matter what profession she was inhabiting &ndash; her emotions, her trials and tribulations. It was more about finding the human in the character. It just so happens that she was a journalist. She could have been in a corporate world. She could have been anywhere else. What really helped was how the script was very clear about what it required of the character.&nbsp;
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/580x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/fa9d4b3c-396.jpg" alt="Crime Beat" style="width: 580px;">
<h2>Playing a journalist in new OTT show</h2>
Q: Who is Maya according to you?
A: I think Maya is an extremely passionate and driven girl who comes from privilege. She wants to prove herself as a journalist and wants to be a part of the crime beat and do investigative journalism. Her struggle, her arc, is basically her trying to prove herself worthy and be like, &lsquo;Look, take me seriously. I'm trained for this. I&rsquo;ve studied investigative journalism. I know I come from privilege and that's why you put me in lifestyle, but what I really want to do is this&rsquo;. How she finds a way into crime beat is her journey.&nbsp;
What I like the most about Maya is that her moral compass is very centred. So, it's not like she wants to achieve anything at the cost of letting go of her morality. She wants to succeed, but not at the cost of other people or at the cost of letting go of her morals. I think that&rsquo;s very interesting and rare, perhaps in the world of journalism as we speak now.
Q: Was Maya&rsquo;s character rooted from Saba&rsquo;s character in real life?&nbsp;
A: Absolutely. I think because I have grown up around journalists &ndash; my parents, friends, a lot of them are journalists. I have sort of seen that world and my understanding of journalism from when I was a kid was that most journalists who hold the strength to speak truth to power usually lean towards socialism in general. I added a bit of a socialist angle to Maya. Although she comes from privilege, she's nearly almost embarrassed of it because she's like, &lsquo;Listen, I know my father may have money, but I want to prove myself and I can go to the grittiest areas in the city and get the story I need to. I am not privileged. My father has money. I don't. I'm working for my bread&rsquo;. So there was some kind of merit to this character, which was very attractive to me.&nbsp;
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/580x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/a2eae71e-4a4.jpg" alt="Crime" style="width: 580px;">
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/katrina-kaif-visits-maha-kumbh-with-mother-in-law-veena-kaushal-meets-swami-chidanand-saraswati-8752011" aria-label="Katrina Kaif visits Maha Kumbh with mother-in-law Veena Kaushal, meets Swami Chidanand Saraswati">Katrina Kaif visits Maha Kumbh with mother-in-law Veena Kaushal, meets Swami Chidanand Saraswati</a></h2>
Q: What&rsquo;s your relationship with co-star Saqib Saleem like?&nbsp;
A: You know when you start your career with some people, you&rsquo;re always rooting for them. When I first worked with Saqib, it was my second film and his first &ndash;&nbsp;Mujhse Fraaandship Karoge. We were kids back then. This was 14 years ago. Moving forward, we might not have been in touch on a daily basis, but we've crossed paths many times. Whenever we would meet, it would be like old times.
<h2>Saba on not being covered in scripts</h2>
Q: Why are you so selective about your roles? Why don&rsquo;t we see you very often on the big screen?
A: In all honesty, you pick from what you're offered. I'm an actor, not a producer or a director. I hope to be a director someday, but as of now, I am at the mercy of someone else's imagination. It's not like I had a plethora of scripts to choose from, if I were entirely honest. So from the ones that came my way, I tried to pick the ones that challenged me as an actor and kind of made me do different things. So whether it was Rocket Boys, which you know was a period story and a biopic or, Who's Your Gyneac, where I got to sink my teeth into comedy and kind of lighthearted drama. Whether it was something gritty like this, I try to do something different each time. But honestly, I'm not covered in scripts.&nbsp;
Q: What's something that people don't know about you Saba?&nbsp;
A: I am a trained dancer and I have been dancing professionally for almost a decade. I trained in Indian classical. I did Odissi. I trained for around 14 years after which I trained in Jazz and Ballet and then I taught for a while as well. I was part of many dance companies and we travelled too.&nbsp;
Q: I feel you&rsquo;ll do really well in a biopic on a singer since you can sing your own songs too. Would you be open to that if given a chance?
A: You know, it's funny you mentioned that because I have just done a film about an artist, a musician and it should hopefully release sometime this year. It's about this singer called Raj Begum, who was a legendary singer from Kashmir. This was at a time when women weren't allowed to sing on the radio. She was the first female singer on Radio Kashmir and it's her story.&nbsp;
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kangana-ranaut-praises-arranged-marriages-in-india-has-this-to-say-about-ben-affleck-jlo-divorce-8750336" aria-label="Kangana Ranaut praises arranged marriages in India, has THIS to say about Ben Affleck-JLo divorce">Kangana Ranaut praises arranged marriages in India, has THIS to say about Ben Affleck-JLo divorce</a></h2>
<h2>Saba on constant vigil on her life</h2>
Q: You&rsquo;ve always been vocal about the press breaching your privacy at times and not drawing a line when they should. Do you feel maybe they&rsquo;re just trying to do their job and these are just perils of the profession?
A: I think I can only speak for myself. I don't think I want to speak for other people. I think I'm a fairly private person and if I might add, a very awkward person socially. So I guard my privacy with my life. I think when you're choosing to be a performer, you are actually putting yourself out into the world. So I think this comes with the territory. And at the end of the day, if I were to be honest and mildly empathetic I would say that that person is also trying to make their living. They are also trying to find a story to get eyeballs.
Many actors are comfortable being in the public eye. I am still warming up to it. I think I'm slightly better than I was when I started but by and large, I am a pretty awkward person. So I try to keep to myself but its actually to each their own.&nbsp;
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/chhaava-box-office-collection-vicky-kaushals-film-races-towards-rs-300-crore-8748778" aria-label="Chhaava Box Office Collection: Vicky Kaushal's film races towards Rs 300 crore mark">Chhaava Box Office Collection: Vicky Kaushal's film races towards Rs 300 crore mark</a></h2>
Q: Saba you performed in Delhi recently. When are you coming back next? What&rsquo;s something you like about the city?
A: I keep coming to Delhi. I am from Delhi. I can give you a very long list of places I love here. I love food so its Purani Delhi, Jama Masjid for early morning Nihari. Then there&rsquo;s Paranthe Wali Gali. There&rsquo;s Ghanta Ghar's Gulab Jamun. I love chaat. I'm obsessed with food.&nbsp;

Entertainment Bollywood Interview From her favourite places in Delhi to why she doesn't like cameras following her around, Saba Azad spoke about ZEE5's Crime Beat & more.

Is there anything that Saba Azad can’t do? She sings, she acts, she does theatre, she wants to direct, and she’s also a trained dancer. While she enjoys dipping her fingers in the pie, Saba maintains that she is socially awkward and doesn’t love the idea of cameras following her. Following the release of her recent ZEE5 show Crime Beat, the quirky and chirpy actress spoke about things dear to her, playing a journalist named Maya in Crime Beat, being unabashedly real about the lesser opportunities coming her way and a surprise role we will see her play very soon. In an exclusive conversation, Saba Azad let her guard down and told us about her favourite places in Delhi and her favourite things to eat when she’s in ‘Dilli’. Here are the edited excerpts of our chat: Q: Saba, you play a journalist in ZEE5’s Crime Beat. What was the experience like? A: It was a no brainer for me to say yes to the project. I was told it's a Sudhir Mishra show and was based on a novel. I read the novel, I read the script and I knew I was doing it. As for the role, I know it’s set in the world of journalism, but the idea was to get inside the character, no matter what profession she was inhabiting – her emotions, her trials and tribulations. It was more about finding the human in the character. It just so happens that she was a journalist. She could have been in a corporate world. She could have been anywhere else. What really helped was how the script was very clear about what it required of the character. Playing a journalist in new OTT show Q: Who is Maya according to you? A: I think Maya is an extremely passionate and driven girl who comes from privilege. She wants to prove herself as a journalist and wants to be a part of the crime beat and do investigative journalism. Her struggle, her arc, is basically her trying to prove herself worthy and be like, ‘Look, take me seriously. I'm trained for this. I’ve studied investigative journalism. I know I come from privilege and that's why you put me in lifestyle, but what I really want to do is this’. How she finds a way into crime beat is her journey. What I like the most about Maya is that her moral compass is very centred. So, it's not like she wants to achieve anything at the cost of letting go of her morality. She wants to succeed, but not at the cost of other people or at the cost of letting go of her morals. I think that’s very interesting and rare, perhaps in the world of journalism as we speak now. Q: Was Maya’s character rooted from Saba’s character in real life? A: Absolutely. I think because I have grown up around journalists – my parents, friends, a lot of them are journalists. I have sort of seen that world and my understanding of journalism from when I was a kid was that most journalists who hold the strength to speak truth to power usually lean towards socialism in general. I added a bit of a socialist angle to Maya. Although she comes from privilege, she's nearly almost embarrassed of it because she's like, ‘Listen, I know my father may have money, but I want to prove myself and I can go to the grittiest areas in the city and get the story I need to. I am not privileged. My father has money. I don't. I'm working for my bread’. So there was some kind of merit to this character, which was very attractive to me. Katrina Kaif visits Maha Kumbh with mother-in-law Veena Kaushal, meets Swami Chidanand Saraswati Q: What’s your relationship with co-star Saqib Saleem like? A: You know when you start your career with some people, you’re always rooting for them. When I first worked with Saqib, it was my second film and his first – Mujhse Fraaandship Karoge. We were kids back then. This was 14 years ago. Moving forward, we might not have been in touch on a daily basis, but we've crossed paths many times. Whenever we would meet, it would be like old times. Saba on not being covered in scripts Q: Why are you so selective about your roles? Why don’t we see you very often on the big screen? A: In all honesty, you pick from what you're offered. I'm an actor, not a producer or a director. I hope to be a director someday, but as of now, I am at the mercy of someone else's imagination. It's not like I had a plethora of scripts to choose from, if I were entirely honest. So from the ones that came my way, I tried to pick the ones that challenged me as an actor and kind of made me do different things. So whether it was Rocket Boys, which you know was a period story and a biopic or, Who's Your Gyneac, where I got to sink my teeth into comedy and kind of lighthearted drama. Whether it was something gritty like this, I try to do something different each time. But honestly, I'm not covered in scripts. Q: What's something that people don't know about you Saba? A: I am a trained dancer and I have been dancing professionally for almost a decade. I trained in Indian classical. I did Odissi. I trained for around 14 years after which I trained in Jazz and Ballet and then I taught for a while as well. I was part of many dance companies and we travelled too. Q: I feel you’ll do really well in a biopic on a singer since you can sing your own songs too. Would you be open to that if given a chance? A: You know, it's funny you mentioned that because I have just done a film about an artist, a musician and it should hopefully release sometime this year. It's about this singer called Raj Begum, who was a legendary singer from Kashmir. This was at a time when women weren't allowed to sing on the radio. She was the first female singer on Radio Kashmir and it's her story. Kangana Ranaut praises arranged marriages in India, has THIS to say about Ben Affleck-JLo divorce Saba on constant vigil on her life Q: You’ve always been vocal about the press breaching your privacy at times and not drawing a line when they should. Do you feel maybe they’re just trying to do their job and these are just perils of the profession? A: I think I can only speak for myself. I don't think I want to speak for other people. I think I'm a fairly private person and if I might add, a very awkward person socially. So I guard my privacy with my life. I think when you're choosing to be a performer, you are actually putting yourself out into the world. So I think this comes with the territory. And at the end of the day, if I were to be honest and mildly empathetic I would say that that person is also trying to make their living. They are also trying to find a story to get eyeballs. Many actors are comfortable being in the public eye. I am still warming up to it. I think I'm slightly better than I was when I started but by and large, I am a pretty awkward person. So I try to keep to myself but its actually to each their own. Chhaava Box Office Collection: Vicky Kaushal's film races towards Rs 300 crore mark Q: Saba you performed in Delhi recently. When are you coming back next? What’s something you like about the city? A: I keep coming to Delhi. I am from Delhi. I can give you a very long list of places I love here. I love food so its Purani Delhi, Jama Masjid for early morning Nihari. Then there’s Paranthe Wali Gali. There’s Ghanta Ghar's Gulab Jamun. I love chaat. I'm obsessed with food.

Saba Azad exclusive Interview on playing journo in new OTT show, being socially awkward and her love for Delhi's food

Elon Musk claimed that the two US astronauts, Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, were left stranded at the International Space Station (ISS) by the former US President Joe Biden administration.&nbsp;
Trump, while speaking at an exclusive interview with Fox News, said Joe Biden was going to leave stranded NASA astronauts, including Williams, in space, to which Musk quickly added that the reason was "political".&nbsp;
&ldquo;At the President&rsquo;s request, or instruction, we are accelerating the return of the astronauts, which was postponed, kind of, to a ridiculous degree," Elon Musk said on being asked about the return of the two astronauts.
&ldquo;They got left in space," Trump added to Musk.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/they-dress-in-t-shirts-trump-mocks-genius-doge-staffers-who-dress-worse-than-elon-musk-8736789">&lsquo;They dress in T-shirts&rsquo;: Trump mocks &lsquo;genius&rsquo; DOGE staffers who dress &lsquo;worse than Elon Musk&rsquo;</a>
Musk further said, "They were left up there for political reasons, which is not good."
When asked about SpaceX's mission to bring back Williams and Wilmore, Musk said, "We don&rsquo;t want to be complacent, but we have brought astronauts back from the space station many times before, and always with success."&nbsp;
&ldquo;I think it&rsquo;s about &ndash; about four weeks to bring them back," he added, upon being questioned about the timeline of the mission to bring them back.
&ldquo;You now have the go-ahead," Trump said, to which Musk responded, &ldquo;Yes. Well, thanks to you."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-releases-video-of-shackled-deportees-elon-musks-reaction-sparks-condemnation-8736268">White House releases video of shackled deportees; Elon Musk's reaction sparks condemnation</a>
The US president further claimed that Musk's company did not have the go-ahead with the Biden administration.&nbsp;
&ldquo;He (Biden) was going to leave him in space. I think he was going to leave them in space, can you believe it?" Trump said.&nbsp;
<h2>Astronauts say 'not abandoned'</h2>
The two astronauts, Sunita Williams and Butch Willmore, have been stranded in low-Earth orbit since June.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-court-refuses-to-block-elon-musk-doge-from-accessing-data-firing-workers-8735259">US Court refuses to block Elon Musk, DOGE from accessing data, firing workers</a>
In January, slamming Joe Biden, Trump and Musk claimed that the two astronauts were left high and dry by the previous administration. To which the astronauts said that they &ldquo;were not stranded, nor have been abandoned" at the ISS.
&ldquo;That&rsquo;s been the rhetoric. That&rsquo;s been the narrative from day one: stranded, abandoned, stuck&mdash;and I get it. We both get it," Wilmore said.
&ldquo;But that is, again, not what our human spaceflight programme is about. We don&rsquo;t feel abandoned, we don&rsquo;t feel stuck, we don&rsquo;t feel stranded."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/musk-trump-bromance-shines-in-joint-interview-as-doge-chief-calls-himself-tech-support-for-us-president-8734740">Musk-Trump 'bromance' shines in joint interview as DOGE chief calls himself 'tech support' for US prez</a>
Wilmore added a request: &ldquo;If you&rsquo;ll help us change the rhetoric, help us change the narrative. Let&rsquo;s change it to &lsquo;prepared and committed.&rsquo; That&rsquo;s what we prefer," Wilmore said.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Speaking at an exclusive interview with Fox News, Trump said Biden was going to leave stranded NASA astronauts in space. Musk added that the reason was "political".

Elon Musk claimed that the two US astronauts, Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, were left stranded at the International Space Station (ISS) by the former US President Joe Biden administration. Trump, while speaking at an exclusive interview with Fox News, said Joe Biden was going to leave stranded NASA astronauts, including Williams, in space, to which Musk quickly added that the reason was "political". “At the President’s request, or instruction, we are accelerating the return of the astronauts, which was postponed, kind of, to a ridiculous degree," Elon Musk said on being asked about the return of the two astronauts. “They got left in space," Trump added to Musk. Also read: ‘They dress in T-shirts’: Trump mocks ‘genius’ DOGE staffers who dress ‘worse than Elon Musk’ Musk further said, "They were left up there for political reasons, which is not good." When asked about SpaceX's mission to bring back Williams and Wilmore, Musk said, "We don’t want to be complacent, but we have brought astronauts back from the space station many times before, and always with success." “I think it’s about – about four weeks to bring them back," he added, upon being questioned about the timeline of the mission to bring them back. “You now have the go-ahead," Trump said, to which Musk responded, “Yes. Well, thanks to you." Also read: White House releases video of shackled deportees; Elon Musk's reaction sparks condemnation The US president further claimed that Musk's company did not have the go-ahead with the Biden administration. “He (Biden) was going to leave him in space. I think he was going to leave them in space, can you believe it?" Trump said. Astronauts say 'not abandoned' The two astronauts, Sunita Williams and Butch Willmore, have been stranded in low-Earth orbit since June. Also read: US Court refuses to block Elon Musk, DOGE from accessing data, firing workers In January, slamming Joe Biden, Trump and Musk claimed that the two astronauts were left high and dry by the previous administration. To which the astronauts said that they “were not stranded, nor have been abandoned" at the ISS. “That’s been the rhetoric. That’s been the narrative from day one: stranded, abandoned, stuck—and I get it. We both get it," Wilmore said. “But that is, again, not what our human spaceflight programme is about. We don’t feel abandoned, we don’t feel stuck, we don’t feel stranded." Also read: Musk-Trump 'bromance' shines in joint interview as DOGE chief calls himself 'tech support' for US prez Wilmore added a request: “If you’ll help us change the rhetoric, help us change the narrative. Let’s change it to ‘prepared and committed.’ That’s what we prefer," Wilmore said. (With inputs from agencies)

Did Biden leave NASA astronauts in space for 'political reasons'? Musk, Trump claim in joint interview

Bangladesh Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain has assured that India's security will not be 'jeopardize' over Dhaka's ties with Islamabad. Dhaka under Chief Advisor Md. Yunus has seen increased ties with Pakistan. 

Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal in Muscat, he said, "Pakistan was singled out due to the visa system...We look Pakistan as just as another country. Hue and cry being created. We are normalising ties at par with other countries"

The Foreign Advisor has a bilateral meeting with EAM Dr S Jaishankar on Sunday. Speaking on the bilateral, he said,''Bangladesh, India need mutually beneficial good relationship. We are working on that. I had a good meeting with EAM Dr S Jaishankar. We discussed steps'

He spoke on number of issues including situation of minorities, ties with Trump Administration, border situation.

"Indian security will not be jeopardised", says Bangladesh's foreign adviser on Pakistan ties

Can music ever get old? The last time we crooned to "Palki Mein Hoke Sawaar", it was the year 1993, when a bright pink lehenga clad Madhuri Dixit danced to the Alka Yagnik sung song in the film Khal Nayak. Cut to 2025, and the song is back with a newer vibe, telling a new story this time with fresh new faces and even fresher onscreen pairing. From Madhuri Dixit and Sanjay Dutt in the film, we now have Tanya Maniktala and Ishwak Singh infuse a new energy into the song and make it their own.
"Palki Mein Hoke Sawaar" is essentially a romantic number with the woman singing about longing to go to her lover, making plans to meet him as she gets on a palki (palanquin) which was earlier used by brides in a wedding.&nbsp;
In an exclusive chat with Tanya Maniktala, the Kill actress reveals what it was like to perform "Palki Mein Hoke Sawaar" Tips Take 2, the relevance of the song today, and her equation with Ishwak Singh of Paatal Lok fame.
Here are the excerpts of the chat:&nbsp;
Q: Tanya, what is &ldquo;Palki Mein&hellip;.Sawaar&rdquo; all about? How is the song relevant today?&nbsp;
A: The song beautifully captures the essence of modern romance while staying true to traditional emotions. It's a perfect blend of classic love expression and contemporary energy. What makes it particularly relevant today is how it resonates with the current generation's approach to weddings&mdash;maintaining the core sentiment of love while adding elements of fun, playfulness, and mutual respect. The beautiful interplay between traditional lyrics and modern arrangement creates this perfect balance of nostalgia and fresh energy.
<h2>Reimagining popular old songs</h2>
Q: How do you feel about remixing and reimagining popular old songs?&nbsp;
A: Reimagining classics is our way of bridging generations through music. These recreations allow us to pay homage to iconic melodies while introducing them to a new audience. It's not just about modernizing the sound - it's about preserving the soul of these timeless pieces while making them accessible to today's listeners.
Watch the song here:
<iframe width="1280" height="596" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ep_GKAtOH9I" title="Palki Mein Hoke Sawaar - Take 2 | Ishwak S, Tanya M |@AseesKaurMusic Shahid M | Raaj A, Seepi J" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Q: How was working with Ishwak? Have you seen his work in Paatal Lok and how did you find it?&nbsp;
A: I really enjoyed working with Ishwak. I had seen his brilliant performance in the first season of Paatal Lok and knew he was an incredibly talented and dedicated actor, and it was a truly great experience.
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/interview-shweta-tripathi-on-her-favourite-character-from-mirzapur-i-love-guddu-8704385" aria-label="Interview | Shweta Tripathi on her favourite character from Mirzapur: 'I love Guddu......'">Interview | Shweta Tripathi on her favourite character from Mirzapur: 'I love Guddu......'</a>
<h2>What's playing on Tanya's playlist?</h2>
Q: What's your personal music playlist like?&nbsp;
A: My playlist varies, and it all depends on the mood and what kind of vibe I'm feeling. You will find everything from 90s Bollywood classics to country music, soft rock to Punjabi hits. Music for me is about the emotion it evokes rather than the genre.
Q: Which artists do you listen to and vibe the most these days?
A: This song has had me revisiting Khal Nayak, and &ldquo;Palki Mein Hoke Sawaar&rdquo; is definitely on repeat right now. My music taste varies, from piano pieces to Punjabi music, but I listen mostly to 90s retro and Bollywood.
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kicking-balls-docu-filmmaker-vijayeta-kumar-on-telling-stories-of-girls-fighting-child-marriage-with-football-8729004" aria-label="Kicking Balls docu-filmmaker Vijayeta Kumar on telling stories of girls fighting child marriage with football">Kicking Balls docu-filmmaker Vijayeta Kumar on telling stories of girls fighting child marriage with football</a>
Q: What&rsquo;s next?&nbsp;
A: I am excited about my recently announced show with MX Player, and there are several interesting projects in development that I'm really looking forward to sharing soon.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Entertainment Bollywood Exclusive Tanya Maniktala recently surprised her fans as she collaborated with Paatal Lok actor Ishwak Singh for TIPS song Palki Mein Hoke Sawaar 2.0.

Can music ever get old? The last time we crooned to "Palki Mein Hoke Sawaar", it was the year 1993, when a bright pink lehenga clad Madhuri Dixit danced to the Alka Yagnik sung song in the film Khal Nayak. Cut to 2025, and the song is back with a newer vibe, telling a new story this time with fresh new faces and even fresher onscreen pairing. From Madhuri Dixit and Sanjay Dutt in the film, we now have Tanya Maniktala and Ishwak Singh infuse a new energy into the song and make it their own. "Palki Mein Hoke Sawaar" is essentially a romantic number with the woman singing about longing to go to her lover, making plans to meet him as she gets on a palki (palanquin) which was earlier used by brides in a wedding. In an exclusive chat with Tanya Maniktala, the Kill actress reveals what it was like to perform "Palki Mein Hoke Sawaar" Tips Take 2, the relevance of the song today, and her equation with Ishwak Singh of Paatal Lok fame. Here are the excerpts of the chat: Q: Tanya, what is “Palki Mein….Sawaar” all about? How is the song relevant today? A: The song beautifully captures the essence of modern romance while staying true to traditional emotions. It's a perfect blend of classic love expression and contemporary energy. What makes it particularly relevant today is how it resonates with the current generation's approach to weddings—maintaining the core sentiment of love while adding elements of fun, playfulness, and mutual respect. The beautiful interplay between traditional lyrics and modern arrangement creates this perfect balance of nostalgia and fresh energy. Reimagining popular old songs Q: How do you feel about remixing and reimagining popular old songs? A: Reimagining classics is our way of bridging generations through music. These recreations allow us to pay homage to iconic melodies while introducing them to a new audience. It's not just about modernizing the sound - it's about preserving the soul of these timeless pieces while making them accessible to today's listeners. Watch the song here: Q: How was working with Ishwak? Have you seen his work in Paatal Lok and how did you find it? A: I really enjoyed working with Ishwak. I had seen his brilliant performance in the first season of Paatal Lok and knew he was an incredibly talented and dedicated actor, and it was a truly great experience. Also read: Interview | Shweta Tripathi on her favourite character from Mirzapur: 'I love Guddu......' What's playing on Tanya's playlist? Q: What's your personal music playlist like? A: My playlist varies, and it all depends on the mood and what kind of vibe I'm feeling. You will find everything from 90s Bollywood classics to country music, soft rock to Punjabi hits. Music for me is about the emotion it evokes rather than the genre. Q: Which artists do you listen to and vibe the most these days? A: This song has had me revisiting Khal Nayak, and “Palki Mein Hoke Sawaar” is definitely on repeat right now. My music taste varies, from piano pieces to Punjabi music, but I listen mostly to 90s retro and Bollywood. Also read: Kicking Balls docu-filmmaker Vijayeta Kumar on telling stories of girls fighting child marriage with football Q: What’s next? A: I am excited about my recently announced show with MX Player, and there are several interesting projects in development that I'm really looking forward to sharing soon.

Exclusive | Tanya Maniktala on revisiting classic old romance with Palki Mein.....song from Khal Nayak with Ishwak Singh

Bangladesh Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain has assured that India's security will not be 'jeopardized' over Dhaka's ties with Islamabad. Dhaka under Chief Advisor Md. Yunus has seen increased ties with Pakistan.

Bangladesh's foreign adviser speaks to WION on ties with India and Pakistan

From the New York Indian Film Festival to IFFI in Goa, a short documentary feature on young girls changing their lives with football has been making its mark, breaking notions of western feminism and championing the cause for women to stand up for their rights. Kicking Balls by director Vijayeta Kumar proves that passion can take you to places.&nbsp;
On just a regular trip to Ajmer city, Vijayeta spotted some girls playing football in what used to be the compound of her old school. Curious about how a small city like Ajmer had started training girls in football, something she'd never seen before, she followed the girls. Kicking Balls is a result of that curiosity. Now, after travelling with her film to close to 10-12 film festivals around the world, the film has finally been released in India on Prasar Bharti&rsquo;s OTT app Waves.
Speaking about why she made this film and how Kicking Balls will act as an eye-opener for those who are unaware of a young girl&rsquo;s struggle in a small city of India, Vijayeta Kumar bares it all.
Here are the edited excerpts of our chat:&nbsp;
Q: How did you come up with the idea? What struck you to make a film on this topic?&nbsp;
A: I'm from Ajmer. I went to visit the city a couple of years ago when I spotted a football camp at what was the compound of my old school. As I drove past, I saw these girls play football and I got curious about them because my school didn't have a girls football team. Then I met them and came to know about this project.
So, I spent some more time just hanging out with them, getting to know them, getting to know their stories and I just felt that this is a story that needs to be told and the world needs to know this.&nbsp;
Q: What was the response to your film during its festival run?&nbsp;
A: It&rsquo;s gone to like almost 10-12 film festivals. The film was received really well at festivals. It also won a couple of awards and we found some beautiful audiences for the film. They had a lot of questions. They were totally engaged with the film. They wanted to know more. Festivals helped us build a lot of visibility for the film.
<h2>Girls fighting child marriage with football</h2>
Q: Where are these girls from your documentary now?&nbsp;
A: So, a lot of them are pursuing football. Some are pursuing further studies. They are fully on their own path now. They have broken away from their marriages. Some have gotten divorced. One of the girls in the film is now a FIFA certified coach. She trains others. A few of them are playing Under-17 football in the state football team. They have got college admissions through the sports quota. We can safely say that they are now pursuing their dreams.&nbsp;
Q: Would you be able to say that this is a result of the visibility that their stories have got via your film?&nbsp;
A: No, the film had nothing to do with it. This is what they have done on their own. For me, this was just about telling their stories to people in the urban areas who have no idea how things work in villages. Even if I didn't make the film, they would still be doing this.
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/interview-c-girinandh-takes-us-through-his-vision-while-composing-music-for-netflixs-the-greatest-rivalry-india-vs-pakistan-8713710" aria-label="Interview: Music composer on weaving nostalgia with music for Netflix's The Greatest Rivalry - India Vs Pakistan">Interview: Music composer on weaving nostalgia with music for Netflix's The Greatest Rivalry - India Vs Pakistan</a></h2>
Q: Why did you want to tell their story to the world? &nbsp;
A: I was very inspired by them when I heard their stories. Then I also wanted to shatter the western idea of feminism we have in big cities. I'm now in Mumbai for 15 years. Before that, I studied in Delhi. In these cities, we feel feminism is about the things we do, like how we can stand up against the men in our lives. But when I saw these girls, I understood what true feminism means. They are fighting for their lives, literally at the grassroots level.&nbsp;
When you see them you realise that they are standing up for their rights without the privilege or a solid support system. Their fight and struggle is inspiring.&nbsp;
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/malaysian-artist-on-creating-something-new-with-tamil-language-and-reggae-music-8728482" aria-label="Malaysian artist on creating something new with Tamil language and reggae music">Malaysian artist on creating something new with Tamil language and reggae music</a></h2>
<h2>Collaboration with Guneet Monga</h2>
Q: What can you tell us about your collaboration with Guneet Monga on the film?
A: Guneet Monga was the first person I approached. She came on board. Then Ashwini Yardi came on board. I approached her because she had that background from Viacom. She made this amazing TV show called Balika Vadhu. She&rsquo;s someone who believes in this cause and supports the movement. I got very lucky in finding my producers.
Q: Why was the film only released on Waves, the Prasad Bharti OTT and not a mainstream streaming partner like Netflix or Amazon Prime Video?
A: Waves will take the film to the audience it's intended for. I've already taken the film to urban audiences via film festivals. Now I feel this film needs to be seen by people in smaller towns, in villages and Waves gives that kind of accessibility, which, like, a Netflix or anything else doesn't.
&nbsp;

Entertainment Bollywood Kicking Balls director Vijayeta Kumar speaks about her film which tells the stories of young girls who are fighting against child marriage with football.

From the New York Indian Film Festival to IFFI in Goa, a short documentary feature on young girls changing their lives with football has been making its mark, breaking notions of western feminism and championing the cause for women to stand up for their rights. Kicking Balls by director Vijayeta Kumar proves that passion can take you to places. On just a regular trip to Ajmer city, Vijayeta spotted some girls playing football in what used to be the compound of her old school. Curious about how a small city like Ajmer had started training girls in football, something she'd never seen before, she followed the girls. Kicking Balls is a result of that curiosity. Now, after travelling with her film to close to 10-12 film festivals around the world, the film has finally been released in India on Prasar Bharti’s OTT app Waves. Speaking about why she made this film and how Kicking Balls will act as an eye-opener for those who are unaware of a young girl’s struggle in a small city of India, Vijayeta Kumar bares it all. Here are the edited excerpts of our chat: Q: How did you come up with the idea? What struck you to make a film on this topic? A: I'm from Ajmer. I went to visit the city a couple of years ago when I spotted a football camp at what was the compound of my old school. As I drove past, I saw these girls play football and I got curious about them because my school didn't have a girls football team. Then I met them and came to know about this project. So, I spent some more time just hanging out with them, getting to know them, getting to know their stories and I just felt that this is a story that needs to be told and the world needs to know this. Q: What was the response to your film during its festival run? A: It’s gone to like almost 10-12 film festivals. The film was received really well at festivals. It also won a couple of awards and we found some beautiful audiences for the film. They had a lot of questions. They were totally engaged with the film. They wanted to know more. Festivals helped us build a lot of visibility for the film. Girls fighting child marriage with football Q: Where are these girls from your documentary now? A: So, a lot of them are pursuing football. Some are pursuing further studies. They are fully on their own path now. They have broken away from their marriages. Some have gotten divorced. One of the girls in the film is now a FIFA certified coach. She trains others. A few of them are playing Under-17 football in the state football team. They have got college admissions through the sports quota. We can safely say that they are now pursuing their dreams. Q: Would you be able to say that this is a result of the visibility that their stories have got via your film? A: No, the film had nothing to do with it. This is what they have done on their own. For me, this was just about telling their stories to people in the urban areas who have no idea how things work in villages. Even if I didn't make the film, they would still be doing this. Interview: Music composer on weaving nostalgia with music for Netflix's The Greatest Rivalry - India Vs Pakistan Q: Why did you want to tell their story to the world? A: I was very inspired by them when I heard their stories. Then I also wanted to shatter the western idea of feminism we have in big cities. I'm now in Mumbai for 15 years. Before that, I studied in Delhi. In these cities, we feel feminism is about the things we do, like how we can stand up against the men in our lives. But when I saw these girls, I understood what true feminism means. They are fighting for their lives, literally at the grassroots level. When you see them you realise that they are standing up for their rights without the privilege or a solid support system. Their fight and struggle is inspiring. Malaysian artist on creating something new with Tamil language and reggae music Collaboration with Guneet Monga Q: What can you tell us about your collaboration with Guneet Monga on the film? A: Guneet Monga was the first person I approached. She came on board. Then Ashwini Yardi came on board. I approached her because she had that background from Viacom. She made this amazing TV show called Balika Vadhu. She’s someone who believes in this cause and supports the movement. I got very lucky in finding my producers. Q: Why was the film only released on Waves, the Prasad Bharti OTT and not a mainstream streaming partner like Netflix or Amazon Prime Video? A: Waves will take the film to the audience it's intended for. I've already taken the film to urban audiences via film festivals. Now I feel this film needs to be seen by people in smaller towns, in villages and Waves gives that kind of accessibility, which, like, a Netflix or anything else doesn't.

Kicking Balls docu-filmmaker Vijayeta Kumar on telling stories of girls fighting child marriage with football

Reflecting on his journey as an artist, Malaysian music artist Sasi The Don, who likes being called the "Reggae Ambassador of Asia&rdquo; by his fans, opened about a new single called Santhosham, how he envisions spreading positivity and joy through his music, and more.&nbsp;
In an exclusive chat with WION, Sasi The Don spoke about his one true objective behind making music, and that is creating joy in the lives of those who enjoy his genre of music.&nbsp;
Here are the edited excerpts of our chat:&nbsp;
Q: Congrats on your new song, Santhosham? What does it signify?
A: Music is a great tool to do wonderful things. Different song creators and artists around the world create music for different purposes. For me, from the beginning, music has always been a tool to spread my messages, my ideas, and positivity&mdash;especially joy.
People often say happiness comes from within, and that&rsquo;s true as individuals, but the real essence of spreading happiness is sharing it with the people who matter. That&rsquo;s where I draw the line and take happiness to a whole new level: celebrating it with people who matter. As I convey in the song&rsquo;s lyrics and message, it&rsquo;s about sharing a piece of the cake with those who matter. That&rsquo;s how I view my positive message going out to those who listen to this song.
<h2>Tamil music and reggae rhythms</h2>
Q: Santhosham is a unique blend of Tamil music and reggae rhythms. How did you approach combining these diverse styles, and what challenges did you face during the process?
A: I think the point about challenges during the process of making the song is less about facing obstacles and more about feeling content and satisfied with the outcome. That was the main focus of what I was trying to achieve. All my life, I&rsquo;ve been the kind of artist or producer who creates songs that always sound different. I don&rsquo;t want to be seen as a copycat or hypocrite, especially when it comes to reggae. Reggae is not my culture&mdash;it originates from the Caribbean&mdash;but it&rsquo;s a style of music I&rsquo;ve always been a fan of since my younger years. The artists I grew up listening to always taught me something unique about reggae music.
Different reggae artists come from different cultures and countries. For instance, Apache Indian&mdash;he&rsquo;s a British-born Indian, and his music resonated deeply with me. He had this unique style of mixing Asian Indian elements with powerful reggae beats, which became his signature.
As a Tamil artist, I&rsquo;ve always taken the Tamil language very seriously, out of love for the language. Tamil is such a powerful language, and bringing Santhosham to life was all about incorporating South Asian and South Indian musical elements with strong reggae beats. That&rsquo;s how the whole fusion idea came together.
I had moments where I questioned whether to include Tamil or not, but I realised it was time to elevate the combination of Tamil and English to a new level.&nbsp;
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/interview-c-girinandh-takes-us-through-his-vision-while-composing-music-for-netflixs-the-greatest-rivalry-india-vs-pakistan-8713710" aria-label="Interview: Music composer on weaving nostalgia with music for Netflix's The Greatest Rivalry - India Vs Pakistan">Interview: Music composer on weaving nostalgia with music for Netflix's The Greatest Rivalry - India Vs Pakistan</a></h2>
Q: From collaborating with global icons like Dr. Alban and Apache Indian to opening for stars like Shaggy, what has been your most memorable experience, and how have these shaped your musical journey?
A: As a reggae artist, most of us usually draw inspiration from the works of Bob Marley. Bob Marley serves as the main point of connection for all of us because his music has always been a benchmark&mdash;not just in terms of work, but also in terms of his message, emotion, and composition.
As a person, he molded what it means to deliver a positive message through a song. I think all of us, as artists, have taken this message deeply in our own ways.&nbsp;
I grew up in Malaysia, in Kuala Lumpur, in a very small suburb. Life was simple, but music kept me occupied and motivated throughout my life. From the days of listening to Dr. Alban, Apache Indian, Shaggy, and others, these artists represented the modern evolution of reggae music&mdash;the more electronic, digital, and fusion styles of reggae. Discovering this music made my life very exciting. But one of the best parts of my journey was meeting the people I idolized. The senior artists I grew up listening to completely changed my life. This wasn&rsquo;t something I ever saw coming. I never thought I&rsquo;d be a singer. I never thought I&rsquo;d go on stage and entertain people. That was the last thing I thought I&rsquo;d do, but everything fell into place.
In the beginning, I wasn&rsquo;t sure what was happening, but now, after 25 years, I realize that this is what I was chosen to do.&nbsp;
<h2>India's long association with reggae music</h2>
Q: What do you feel makes reggae such a powerful medium for connecting cultures, and how have you adapted it to resonate with Indian and global audiences?
A: To me, the purpose of reggae has always stayed true to its roots and its existence. Reggae began as the music of the people, often self-taught musicians who emerged during the genre&rsquo;s formative years. It wasn&rsquo;t about money or wealth&mdash;it was about creating something meaningful, occupying life with purpose. From the early pioneers before Bob Marley to Marley himself, reggae has always had the power to inspire and unite, not just as a genre but as a movement.
Reggae grew from the small island of Jamaica and crossed the globe, touching every corner of the world. Today, you see reggae being embraced in places like Japan, Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, India, Russia, and beyond. Bob Marley, being one of the greatest global icons of our lifetime, played a massive role in spreading reggae&rsquo;s influence. Along the way, reggae has not only inspired cultures worldwide but has also been shaped by these cultures in return.
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/interview-shweta-tripathi-on-her-favourite-character-from-mirzapur-i-love-guddu-8704385" aria-label="Interview | Shweta Tripathi on her favourite character from Mirzapur: 'I love Guddu......'">Interview | Shweta Tripathi on her favourite character from Mirzapur: 'I love Guddu......'</a></h2>
I&rsquo;ve always felt reggae is a powerful medium because it is rooted in love and positivity. Reggae doesn&rsquo;t speak of hate; it doesn&rsquo;t involve dissing or negativity. It&rsquo;s a genre that teaches respect, spreads joy, and uplifts the human spirit. It&rsquo;s music that changes your mood and your perspective, encouraging you to see life differently.
Even in Indian cinema, music legends like Ilaiyaraaja, A. R. Rahman, and Anirudh have infused reggae-inspired elements into their compositions. Whether people consciously recognise it as reggae or not, those songs always resonated and became hits because of their infectious rhythm and soul.
Indian culture, being deeply connected to movies and music, has always been influenced by a mix of global sounds. Reggae, with its unique frequency and uplifting energy, naturally connects with people. It has a way of tuning us into a better state of mind, changing how we feel about the world around us.&nbsp;That&rsquo;s why I believe Indians, and people everywhere, resonate with reggae so well. It&rsquo;s not about whether it&rsquo;s Indian or not&mdash;it&rsquo;s about the universal language of love and positivity that reggae carries.

Lifestyle Malaysian artist Sasi The Don is proud of his new single Santhosham which offers Tamil music wrapped in reggae beats and rhythms. He tells us what it means to be a reggae artist.

Reflecting on his journey as an artist, Malaysian music artist Sasi The Don, who likes being called the "Reggae Ambassador of Asia” by his fans, opened about a new single called Santhosham, how he envisions spreading positivity and joy through his music, and more. In an exclusive chat with WION, Sasi The Don spoke about his one true objective behind making music, and that is creating joy in the lives of those who enjoy his genre of music. Here are the edited excerpts of our chat: Q: Congrats on your new song, Santhosham? What does it signify? A: Music is a great tool to do wonderful things. Different song creators and artists around the world create music for different purposes. For me, from the beginning, music has always been a tool to spread my messages, my ideas, and positivity—especially joy. People often say happiness comes from within, and that’s true as individuals, but the real essence of spreading happiness is sharing it with the people who matter. That’s where I draw the line and take happiness to a whole new level: celebrating it with people who matter. As I convey in the song’s lyrics and message, it’s about sharing a piece of the cake with those who matter. That’s how I view my positive message going out to those who listen to this song. Tamil music and reggae rhythms Q: Santhosham is a unique blend of Tamil music and reggae rhythms. How did you approach combining these diverse styles, and what challenges did you face during the process? A: I think the point about challenges during the process of making the song is less about facing obstacles and more about feeling content and satisfied with the outcome. That was the main focus of what I was trying to achieve. All my life, I’ve been the kind of artist or producer who creates songs that always sound different. I don’t want to be seen as a copycat or hypocrite, especially when it comes to reggae. Reggae is not my culture—it originates from the Caribbean—but it’s a style of music I’ve always been a fan of since my younger years. The artists I grew up listening to always taught me something unique about reggae music. Different reggae artists come from different cultures and countries. For instance, Apache Indian—he’s a British-born Indian, and his music resonated deeply with me. He had this unique style of mixing Asian Indian elements with powerful reggae beats, which became his signature. As a Tamil artist, I’ve always taken the Tamil language very seriously, out of love for the language. Tamil is such a powerful language, and bringing Santhosham to life was all about incorporating South Asian and South Indian musical elements with strong reggae beats. That’s how the whole fusion idea came together. I had moments where I questioned whether to include Tamil or not, but I realised it was time to elevate the combination of Tamil and English to a new level. Interview: Music composer on weaving nostalgia with music for Netflix's The Greatest Rivalry - India Vs Pakistan Q: From collaborating with global icons like Dr. Alban and Apache Indian to opening for stars like Shaggy, what has been your most memorable experience, and how have these shaped your musical journey? A: As a reggae artist, most of us usually draw inspiration from the works of Bob Marley. Bob Marley serves as the main point of connection for all of us because his music has always been a benchmark—not just in terms of work, but also in terms of his message, emotion, and composition. As a person, he molded what it means to deliver a positive message through a song. I think all of us, as artists, have taken this message deeply in our own ways. I grew up in Malaysia, in Kuala Lumpur, in a very small suburb. Life was simple, but music kept me occupied and motivated throughout my life. From the days of listening to Dr. Alban, Apache Indian, Shaggy, and others, these artists represented the modern evolution of reggae music—the more electronic, digital, and fusion styles of reggae. Discovering this music made my life very exciting. But one of the best parts of my journey was meeting the people I idolized. The senior artists I grew up listening to completely changed my life. This wasn’t something I ever saw coming. I never thought I’d be a singer. I never thought I’d go on stage and entertain people. That was the last thing I thought I’d do, but everything fell into place. In the beginning, I wasn’t sure what was happening, but now, after 25 years, I realize that this is what I was chosen to do. India's long association with reggae music Q: What do you feel makes reggae such a powerful medium for connecting cultures, and how have you adapted it to resonate with Indian and global audiences? A: To me, the purpose of reggae has always stayed true to its roots and its existence. Reggae began as the music of the people, often self-taught musicians who emerged during the genre’s formative years. It wasn’t about money or wealth—it was about creating something meaningful, occupying life with purpose. From the early pioneers before Bob Marley to Marley himself, reggae has always had the power to inspire and unite, not just as a genre but as a movement. Reggae grew from the small island of Jamaica and crossed the globe, touching every corner of the world. Today, you see reggae being embraced in places like Japan, Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, India, Russia, and beyond. Bob Marley, being one of the greatest global icons of our lifetime, played a massive role in spreading reggae’s influence. Along the way, reggae has not only inspired cultures worldwide but has also been shaped by these cultures in return. Interview | Shweta Tripathi on her favourite character from Mirzapur: 'I love Guddu......' I’ve always felt reggae is a powerful medium because it is rooted in love and positivity. Reggae doesn’t speak of hate; it doesn’t involve dissing or negativity. It’s a genre that teaches respect, spreads joy, and uplifts the human spirit. It’s music that changes your mood and your perspective, encouraging you to see life differently. Even in Indian cinema, music legends like Ilaiyaraaja, A. R. Rahman, and Anirudh have infused reggae-inspired elements into their compositions. Whether people consciously recognise it as reggae or not, those songs always resonated and became hits because of their infectious rhythm and soul. Indian culture, being deeply connected to movies and music, has always been influenced by a mix of global sounds. Reggae, with its unique frequency and uplifting energy, naturally connects with people. It has a way of tuning us into a better state of mind, changing how we feel about the world around us. That’s why I believe Indians, and people everywhere, resonate with reggae so well. It’s not about whether it’s Indian or not—it’s about the universal language of love and positivity that reggae carries.

Malaysian artist on creating something new with Tamil language and reggae music

Indian music composer C. Girinandh, founder of the popular music band OXYGEN recently composed music for a Netflix show titled The Greatest Rivalry - India Vs Pakistan. One of the most awaited releases this month, the show takes a deep dive into the 90s era when matches between India and Pakistan would stroke the nationalistic frenzy between the nations.
Not to say that is not the case anymore but with so many cricketing competitions now including the IPL (Indian Premiere League) and others, the aura of an India-Pakistan match is somewhat debatable. We do love a good match between the two neighbouring (politically warring) nations though.&nbsp;
Hence, making music which would elevate the storytelling, and complement the athletic spirit of the show that highlights cricket, a sport that is celebrated like a festival in both countries &ndash; was going to be both challenging and a mighty task. We spoke to C. Girinandh who told us about his vision and approach to composing music, and his two cents on the historic rivalry between India and Pakistan which he tried to capture in his music.&nbsp;
Here are the excerpts of the chat:
Q: Congratulations on composing music for Netflix's The Greatest Rivalry - India Vs Pakistan. What was your approach to composing music for this series?
A: Thank you. My approach was to maintain a neutral tone while evoking emotions and recreating the iconic moments from historic India-Pakistan matches. I had the opportunity to explore and incorporate multiple genres into this docu-series.
Q: How did you draw inspiration from the historic rivalry between India and Pakistan to create music for the series?
A: As a fan of India-Pakistan matches, I've followed most of the games, and those epic moments were enough to create a musical landscape for this series. The directors, Chandradev Bhagat and Payal, were also clear about their vision, which helped guide my composition.
Watch the trailer here:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m71o6k5w-ttmdesa9-afe3s07u">
The biggest rivalry told by the legends who lived it 🏏✨ Dive into a tale of passion, glory, and cricket&rsquo;s fiercest rivalry in The Greatest Rivalry: India vs Pakistan, from 7 February, only on Netflix.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheGreatestRivalryIndiaVsPakistanOnNetflix?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheGreatestRivalryIndiaVsPakistanOnNetflix</a>&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/31K1CC6YHK">pic.twitter.com/31K1CC6YHK</a>
&mdash; Netflix India (@NetflixIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/NetflixIndia/status/1884474073469837672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2025</a></blockquote>
Q: You've also composed a song for the series. Can you tell us more about the song and how it fits into the narrative?
A: The song is a collaboration with rapper Devoid and MKB. It's a sonic expression of the bond, relationships, sportsmanship, aggression, attitude, and players' mentality and strategy on the field.
<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/will-smith-comments-on-diljit-dosanjhs-post-fans-speculate-about-a-possible-collaboration-between-the-two-8711906" aria-label="Will Smith comments on Diljit Dosanjh's post, fans speculate about a possible collaboration between the two">Will Smith comments on Diljit Dosanjh's post, fans speculate about a possible collaboration between the two</a>
Q: How did you infuse your band&rsquo;s genre into the music you created for The Greatest Rivalry?
A: We incorporated various world music elements into the series, using a hybrid approach that merges electronic and live instruments. We also drew from popular instruments common to both India and Pakistan, such as the rabab, oud, dhol, and percussions.
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/580x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/d2b0f06b-fae.jpg" alt="Music composer C. Girinandh" style="width: 580px;">
Q: What was the most challenging part of composing music for this series?
A: The most challenging aspect was conveying contrasting emotions seamlessly, one after the other, while maintaining a neutral approach and striking a balance.
Q: How did the experience differ from your work with OXYGEN?
A: Composing for OXYGEN is a cumulative, organic approach where we jam and combine perspectives from band members. In contrast, composing for a series requires a clear approach and vision, with a given situation and time frame. This experience taught me to adapt to a more structured format while maintaining my creative voice.
<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/did-drake-respond-to-kendrick-lamars-super-bowl-halftime-performance-with-altered-lyrics-8711792" aria-label="Did Drake respond to Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl halftime performance with altered lyrics?">Did Drake respond to Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl halftime performance with altered lyrics?</a>
Q: What&rsquo;s next?
A: I'm excited about my upcoming projects, including "METAGEN," an immersive format album featuring a 20-piece string ensemble. I'm also collaborating with renowned artists like Hariharan Ji, Vikram, Vijay Prakash, and several promising indie artists.
The Greatest Rivalry - India Vs Pakistan is currently streaming on Netflix. It was released on February 7. The documentary series will give fans inside stories from some of the epic matches between India and Pakistan throughout their cricketing history, narrated by legends from both countries. The series also features actual match footage.

Entertainment Indian music composer C. Girinandh explains his vision board while composing music for the hotly anticipated Netflix show The Greatest Rivalry - India Vs Pakistan. 

Indian music composer C. Girinandh, founder of the popular music band OXYGEN recently composed music for a Netflix show titled The Greatest Rivalry - India Vs Pakistan. One of the most awaited releases this month, the show takes a deep dive into the 90s era when matches between India and Pakistan would stroke the nationalistic frenzy between the nations. Not to say that is not the case anymore but with so many cricketing competitions now including the IPL (Indian Premiere League) and others, the aura of an India-Pakistan match is somewhat debatable. We do love a good match between the two neighbouring (politically warring) nations though. Hence, making music which would elevate the storytelling, and complement the athletic spirit of the show that highlights cricket, a sport that is celebrated like a festival in both countries – was going to be both challenging and a mighty task. We spoke to C. Girinandh who told us about his vision and approach to composing music, and his two cents on the historic rivalry between India and Pakistan which he tried to capture in his music. Here are the excerpts of the chat: Q: Congratulations on composing music for Netflix's The Greatest Rivalry - India Vs Pakistan. What was your approach to composing music for this series? A: Thank you. My approach was to maintain a neutral tone while evoking emotions and recreating the iconic moments from historic India-Pakistan matches. I had the opportunity to explore and incorporate multiple genres into this docu-series. Q: How did you draw inspiration from the historic rivalry between India and Pakistan to create music for the series? A: As a fan of India-Pakistan matches, I've followed most of the games, and those epic moments were enough to create a musical landscape for this series. The directors, Chandradev Bhagat and Payal, were also clear about their vision, which helped guide my composition. Watch the trailer here: The biggest rivalry told by the legends who lived it 🏏✨ Dive into a tale of passion, glory, and cricket’s fiercest rivalry in The Greatest Rivalry: India vs Pakistan, from 7 February, only on Netflix.#TheGreatestRivalryIndiaVsPakistanOnNetflix… pic.twitter.com/31K1CC6YHK — Netflix India (@NetflixIndia) January 29, 2025 Q: You've also composed a song for the series. Can you tell us more about the song and how it fits into the narrative? A: The song is a collaboration with rapper Devoid and MKB. It's a sonic expression of the bond, relationships, sportsmanship, aggression, attitude, and players' mentality and strategy on the field. Will Smith comments on Diljit Dosanjh's post, fans speculate about a possible collaboration between the two Q: How did you infuse your band’s genre into the music you created for The Greatest Rivalry? A: We incorporated various world music elements into the series, using a hybrid approach that merges electronic and live instruments. We also drew from popular instruments common to both India and Pakistan, such as the rabab, oud, dhol, and percussions. Q: What was the most challenging part of composing music for this series? A: The most challenging aspect was conveying contrasting emotions seamlessly, one after the other, while maintaining a neutral approach and striking a balance. Q: How did the experience differ from your work with OXYGEN? A: Composing for OXYGEN is a cumulative, organic approach where we jam and combine perspectives from band members. In contrast, composing for a series requires a clear approach and vision, with a given situation and time frame. This experience taught me to adapt to a more structured format while maintaining my creative voice. Did Drake respond to Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl halftime performance with altered lyrics? Q: What’s next? A: I'm excited about my upcoming projects, including "METAGEN," an immersive format album featuring a 20-piece string ensemble. I'm also collaborating with renowned artists like Hariharan Ji, Vikram, Vijay Prakash, and several promising indie artists. The Greatest Rivalry - India Vs Pakistan is currently streaming on Netflix. It was released on February 7. The documentary series will give fans inside stories from some of the epic matches between India and Pakistan throughout their cricketing history, narrated by legends from both countries. The series also features actual match footage.

Interview: Music composer on weaving nostalgia with music for Netflix's The Greatest Rivalry - India Vs Pakistan

After a year of critically-acclaimed work in 2024 with Mirzapur S3 and Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein S2, Shweta Tripathi is ready to take 2025 hands on. &ldquo;My socks are already pulled up,&rdquo; says Shweta when asked what to expect from the new year.&nbsp;
&ldquo;In 2024, I got the feeling of Bahubali because when you do any work, it has an impact and due to that impact, an energy shifts and in 2024, there is so much I have learned because of the two amazing releases. You know when some projects become cult. It feels weird to say it myself but it&rsquo;s a reality. This realisation makes me very happy that my instinct lets me choose the correct kind of projects,&rdquo; recalls Shweta of how it felt when both OTT shows hit it out of the park in terms of fandom.&nbsp;
She further adds, &ldquo;My instinct also gets me to work with like-minded people who are extremely intelligent but also very kind. Not but, and also very kind.&rdquo;
In a candid chat on films, shows and relationships she has built during her time in the showbiz, Shweta spoke about her equation with Ali Fazal and Richa Chadha, the Mirzapur film, favourite character from Mirzapur universe, and much more.&nbsp;
<h2>Here are the edited excerpts from the chat:&nbsp;</h2>
Q: What can we expect from 2025?&nbsp;
A: I am really excited for 2025. I recently saw Girls Will Be Girls which is a film by Ali and Richa. Their first film that they have produced. It feels very good because my journey with Richa is from Masaan, and with Ali, we have Mirzapur together. So when people you look up to, admire and respect, raise the bar, it&rsquo;s a lot of fun. I am going to utilise that energy and motivation and start 2025 with exactly that.&nbsp;
Q: Your Mirzapur role is one that people will remember for years. The show itself enjoys fandom from all sections and age groups of viewers. Do you think it has been instrumental in cementing your position as a serious actor?
A: I think I got a lot of validation from Masaan. One thing that Mirzapur has given me is to literally put me up on the hoardings. It has made me a household name. So wherever I go, it becomes difficult because everyone wants a picture with Golu. Everyone wants to talk to Gajgamani. So this is a good change but that is what it is.&nbsp;
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/580x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/f16ab920-b26.jpg" alt="Shweta" style="width: 580px;">
Q: Mirzapur film will also go on floors next year. What can you tell us about that?&nbsp;
A: I am very excited to see the feature film. From my understanding, I have seen in the teaser trailer that Munna and Kabounder, both of them are there. So I am guessing that this is something from season 1. It will be a chapter from season 1 and season 4 will be a continuation of the story and the character's journey from season 3 to 4. But yes, the film will be very spicy, commercial and explosive. I can't wait to be a part of it. But more importantly, I can't wait to see it as an audience.&nbsp;
Watch the film announcement teaser for Mirzapur here:
<iframe width="1280" height="596" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yYsHSYjb690" title="Mirzapur The Film | Announcement | Pankaj Tripathi | Ali Fazal | Divyenndu | Abhishek Banerjee" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/khushi-kapoor-admits-getting-cosmetic-surgeries-says-no-big-deal-8663151" aria-label="Khushi Kapoor admits getting cosmetic surgeries, says 'No big deal'">Khushi Kapoor admits getting cosmetic surgeries, says 'No big deal'</a>
Q: What can you tell us about Mirzapur season 4 and when is it coming?&nbsp;
A: I also want to know about season 4. I keep asking writers and directors what's happening and how. I am curious to know what will happen to Golu. Not just Golu, in fact, even Shikha. Where are these characters? I am just very curious because I genuinely care about these people. I am very protective about the characters I play. Maybe not possessive, but protective to whom I am. I cannot wait to be them again.&nbsp;
Q: Who is your favourite character in Mirzapur Universe and why?
A: I am obviously biased towards Guddu because I love Guddu and I love Ali. And now that they have baby Zunera so now there is more reason. Richa and Ali love each other individually. Their baby is so cute. She is so adorable. I feel connected with her. I can't wait to meet her again.&nbsp;
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/580x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/909f5551-066.jpg" alt="Guddu" style="width: 580px;">
Q: Also, Kaali Kaali Aankhein started off on a slow note and has now become a hit show that enjoys popularity. What is next season coming?&nbsp;
A: That is being written. Mirzapur is also being written. So I am also waiting for that email in which it will be written Episode 1 next season. I am waiting for that day.&nbsp;
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/580x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/a04fc1ee-7ff.jpg" alt="Shweta" style="width: 580px;">
Q: What&rsquo;s new in life?
A: I have left sugar. I am inspired by Gurmeet Chaudhary. I don't have a date in mind but I know whenever I eat, it has to be an event which will be special.
<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood-actor-pankaj-tripathi-visits-maha-kumbh-mela-with-family-shares-experience-of-taking-holy-dip-8703659" aria-label="Bollywood actor Pankaj Tripathi visits Maha Kumbh Mela with family, shares experience of taking holy dip">Bollywood actor Pankaj Tripathi visits Maha Kumbh Mela with family, shares experience of taking holy dip</a>
Q: What are some things that you are working on in 2025?&nbsp;
A: I have been wanting to produce since a while now, and I have stories from excellent writers and with directors attached. Ali and Richa have inspired me so much to tell good stories. I cannot wait to collaborate with like-minded people and tell the stories that raise the bar of storytelling, that raise the bar of emotions. And climate change. I want to urge people and myself to do a little more because the power is with us.
We should learn to coexist better. So I am going to urge people who like me, who hear me, who see me, to pay a little more attention to that so that we can bring about this change together.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Entertainment Bollywood Shweta Tripathi in an exclusive interview spoke about her equation with Ali Fazal- Richa Chadha, and when we can expect Mirzapur S4, Mirzapur film release.

After a year of critically-acclaimed work in 2024 with Mirzapur S3 and Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein S2, Shweta Tripathi is ready to take 2025 hands on. “My socks are already pulled up,” says Shweta when asked what to expect from the new year. “In 2024, I got the feeling of Bahubali because when you do any work, it has an impact and due to that impact, an energy shifts and in 2024, there is so much I have learned because of the two amazing releases. You know when some projects become cult. It feels weird to say it myself but it’s a reality. This realisation makes me very happy that my instinct lets me choose the correct kind of projects,” recalls Shweta of how it felt when both OTT shows hit it out of the park in terms of fandom. She further adds, “My instinct also gets me to work with like-minded people who are extremely intelligent but also very kind. Not but, and also very kind.” In a candid chat on films, shows and relationships she has built during her time in the showbiz, Shweta spoke about her equation with Ali Fazal and Richa Chadha, the Mirzapur film, favourite character from Mirzapur universe, and much more. Here are the edited excerpts from the chat: Q: What can we expect from 2025? A: I am really excited for 2025. I recently saw Girls Will Be Girls which is a film by Ali and Richa. Their first film that they have produced. It feels very good because my journey with Richa is from Masaan, and with Ali, we have Mirzapur together. So when people you look up to, admire and respect, raise the bar, it’s a lot of fun. I am going to utilise that energy and motivation and start 2025 with exactly that. Q: Your Mirzapur role is one that people will remember for years. The show itself enjoys fandom from all sections and age groups of viewers. Do you think it has been instrumental in cementing your position as a serious actor? A: I think I got a lot of validation from Masaan. One thing that Mirzapur has given me is to literally put me up on the hoardings. It has made me a household name. So wherever I go, it becomes difficult because everyone wants a picture with Golu. Everyone wants to talk to Gajgamani. So this is a good change but that is what it is. Q: Mirzapur film will also go on floors next year. What can you tell us about that? A: I am very excited to see the feature film. From my understanding, I have seen in the teaser trailer that Munna and Kabounder, both of them are there. So I am guessing that this is something from season 1. It will be a chapter from season 1 and season 4 will be a continuation of the story and the character's journey from season 3 to 4. But yes, the film will be very spicy, commercial and explosive. I can't wait to be a part of it. But more importantly, I can't wait to see it as an audience. Watch the film announcement teaser for Mirzapur here: Also read: Khushi Kapoor admits getting cosmetic surgeries, says 'No big deal' Q: What can you tell us about Mirzapur season 4 and when is it coming? A: I also want to know about season 4. I keep asking writers and directors what's happening and how. I am curious to know what will happen to Golu. Not just Golu, in fact, even Shikha. Where are these characters? I am just very curious because I genuinely care about these people. I am very protective about the characters I play. Maybe not possessive, but protective to whom I am. I cannot wait to be them again. Q: Who is your favourite character in Mirzapur Universe and why? A: I am obviously biased towards Guddu because I love Guddu and I love Ali. And now that they have baby Zunera so now there is more reason. Richa and Ali love each other individually. Their baby is so cute. She is so adorable. I feel connected with her. I can't wait to meet her again. Q: Also, Kaali Kaali Aankhein started off on a slow note and has now become a hit show that enjoys popularity. What is next season coming? A: That is being written. Mirzapur is also being written. So I am also waiting for that email in which it will be written Episode 1 next season. I am waiting for that day. Q: What’s new in life? A: I have left sugar. I am inspired by Gurmeet Chaudhary. I don't have a date in mind but I know whenever I eat, it has to be an event which will be special. Bollywood actor Pankaj Tripathi visits Maha Kumbh Mela with family, shares experience of taking holy dip Q: What are some things that you are working on in 2025? A: I have been wanting to produce since a while now, and I have stories from excellent writers and with directors attached. Ali and Richa have inspired me so much to tell good stories. I cannot wait to collaborate with like-minded people and tell the stories that raise the bar of storytelling, that raise the bar of emotions. And climate change. I want to urge people and myself to do a little more because the power is with us. We should learn to coexist better. So I am going to urge people who like me, who hear me, who see me, to pay a little more attention to that so that we can bring about this change together.

Interview | Shweta Tripathi on her favourite character from Mirzapur: 'I love Guddu......'

If there was one truth about India that everyone would agree on, is that India is truly rich in diversity and what better way to convey that than with the rich traditions of Indian classical music? Ahead of India&rsquo;s 76th Republic Day celebrations this year, we got in touch with Indian sitarist and vocalist Hidayat Husain Khan who hails from one of the most respected families in Hindustani classical music. Hidayat recently released his own rendition of India&rsquo;s National Anthem &ldquo;Jana Gana Mana&rdquo; as &ldquo;Jai Hind&rdquo; in which he used sitar predominantly to reflect the evolution of India over the years while celebrating the country&rsquo;s unity, diversity, and heritage.
In a candid chat, Hidayat Husain Khan opened up on his vision for his rendition of India&rsquo;s national Anthem, how he&rsquo;d be lost without music and more.&nbsp;
Here are the edited excerpts of our chat:&nbsp;
Q: How has growing up in a house full of music shaped you as a person?&nbsp;
A: It&rsquo;s been a transformative experience that has shaped me in profound ways. Music has the unique ability to connect you with your emotions and your inner self like nothing else I&rsquo;ve ever encountered. It teaches you empathy, compassion, and communication, offering a sense of understanding that transcends words. It instils humility and serves as the most loyal friend one could ever have.&nbsp;The stalwarts I grew up around were not only masters of their craft but also deeply humble and incredibly generous in sharing their knowledge. Their humility, despite their immense talent and accomplishments, left a profound impression on me.
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/interview-rapper-mischief-has-already-jammed-with-dad-talat-aziz-how-come-no-one-knows-8612417" aria-label="Interview | Rapper Mischief has already jammed with dad Talat Aziz. How come no one knows?">Interview | Rapper Mischief has already jammed with dad Talat Aziz. How come no one knows?</a></h2>
Q: If not music, how different would your life be today?&nbsp;
A: I honestly cannot imagine a life without music. While I have many interests and hobbies, music has always been at the core of everything I do. All my experiences, relationships, and understanding of the world are deeply intertwined with the sounds and essence of music. It&rsquo;s not just something I do; it&rsquo;s a source of meaning and connection in my life.&nbsp;To think of a life without music is unimaginable&mdash;it would feel incomplete and unfulfilled. Music isn&rsquo;t just a part of me; it defines who I am.
Q: What can you tell us about some of your collaborations with world-renowned artists? Can you mention some memories that you cherish even now?
A: I feel incredibly fortunate to have collaborated with some of the greatest musical minds from both Eastern and Western traditions. From working with legends like Alicia Keys, Pete Townshend, Will.i.am, and Jay-Z in the West to sharing the stage with maestros like Ustad Zakir Hussain, my father Ustad Vilayat Khan Sahib, and Pandit Kishan Maharaj in the East, and so many more, each experience has been profoundly enriching.
Not all of these moments were traditional collaborations; some were opportunities to share the stage or musical space with these luminaries. In those moments, I absorbed invaluable lessons&mdash;far beyond what words can capture. Their brilliance, humility, and dedication left a lasting impact on me.
Q: What can you tell us about reinterpreting &ldquo;Jana Gana Mana&rdquo; and your creative journey?
A: The journey of reinterpreting &ldquo;Jana Gana Mana&rdquo; began a few months ago when I was invited to perform at an event in New York City. The hosts requested that I perform the Indian National Anthem, and as I prepared for it, I found myself reflecting deeply on its significance. This process took me down memory lane, back to my school days in Dehradun, standing in morning assemblies and singing these beautiful, meaningful songs.&nbsp;
Watch the song here:
<iframe width="1262" height="710" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lXlWbaZqfc4" title="Jai Hind, India | Jana Gana Mana | Hidayat Khan | Avirodh | Naad | Hrishi | Offical Music Video" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
I realised how much of the wisdom and values embedded in those songs have shaped who I am today. As I researched existing renditions of "Jana Gana Mana", I noticed that many recent versions fuse Indian sounds with Western elements, such as philharmonic orchestras, distortion guitars, and drums. While these interpretations are brilliant in their own right, I felt a deep calling to express my version rooted in the heritage of Indian classical music&mdash;the tradition that I come from and that defines me.
I decided to tell this story through the sitar, an instrument that resonates with my soul. The piece begins with an alaap&mdash;a slow, meditative introduction that unfolds the melody of "Jana Gana Mana" in an improvised and exploratory way. This section represents the evolution of India over the years, rich with history and depth. It transitions into a jod, a rhythmic, high-energy segment that further explores the melody in an abstract and improvised manner. Finally, the anthem is sung, highlighting the unity and spirit of our nation.
For me, this project is not just about music but also about showcasing India&rsquo;s incredible diversity.&nbsp;
Q: What were some challenging aspects of reimagining a composition such as the National Anthem?
A: Reimagining a composition as iconic as "Jana Gana Mana" came with its own set of challenges. The anthem holds deep emotional and cultural significance for millions of people, so I felt a great responsibility to honour its essence while expressing my personal interpretation. Striking that balance was perhaps the most challenging aspect.
I wanted to ensure my rendition stayed true to the roots of Indian classical music, resisting the temptation to incorporate popular contemporary elements like philharmonics or Western instrumentation. Instead, I focused on letting the sitar tell the story in a way that felt authentic to my tradition and heritage.
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/interview-mumbai-born-la-based-singer-natania-on-nautanki-featuring-in-kay-beautys-campaign-and-more-8639917" aria-label="Interview| Mumbai-born LA-based singer Natania on Nautanki featuring in Kay Beauty's campaign and more">Interview| Mumbai-born LA-based singer Natania on Nautanki featuring in Kay Beauty's campaign and more</a></h2>
Q: Any message for those who listen to this rendition this Republic Day?&nbsp;
A: Through this rendition of the Indian National Anthem, my aim is to highlight the essence of unity, diversity, and shared heritage that defines India, especially in the context of Republic Day. This day symbolizes the strength of our democracy and the values that bind us as a nation, despite our immense cultural, linguistic, and regional diversity.
The journey of the alaap, the energy of the jod, and the soulfulness of the vocal segment collectively reflect the evolution of India&mdash;its struggles, triumphs, and unwavering spirit.&nbsp;I hope this rendition inspires a sense of pride and gratitude for our shared identity as Indians. It is a reminder of how far we&rsquo;ve come as a nation and the beautiful harmony we continue to strive for.&nbsp;

Interview Lifestyle Hidayat Husain Khan opens up on his vision for his rendition of India’s national Anthem Jai Hind, how he’d be lost without music and more. 

If there was one truth about India that everyone would agree on, is that India is truly rich in diversity and what better way to convey that than with the rich traditions of Indian classical music? Ahead of India’s 76th Republic Day celebrations this year, we got in touch with Indian sitarist and vocalist Hidayat Husain Khan who hails from one of the most respected families in Hindustani classical music. Hidayat recently released his own rendition of India’s National Anthem “Jana Gana Mana” as “Jai Hind” in which he used sitar predominantly to reflect the evolution of India over the years while celebrating the country’s unity, diversity, and heritage. In a candid chat, Hidayat Husain Khan opened up on his vision for his rendition of India’s national Anthem, how he’d be lost without music and more. Here are the edited excerpts of our chat: Q: How has growing up in a house full of music shaped you as a person? A: It’s been a transformative experience that has shaped me in profound ways. Music has the unique ability to connect you with your emotions and your inner self like nothing else I’ve ever encountered. It teaches you empathy, compassion, and communication, offering a sense of understanding that transcends words. It instils humility and serves as the most loyal friend one could ever have. The stalwarts I grew up around were not only masters of their craft but also deeply humble and incredibly generous in sharing their knowledge. Their humility, despite their immense talent and accomplishments, left a profound impression on me. Interview | Rapper Mischief has already jammed with dad Talat Aziz. How come no one knows? Q: If not music, how different would your life be today? A: I honestly cannot imagine a life without music. While I have many interests and hobbies, music has always been at the core of everything I do. All my experiences, relationships, and understanding of the world are deeply intertwined with the sounds and essence of music. It’s not just something I do; it’s a source of meaning and connection in my life. To think of a life without music is unimaginable—it would feel incomplete and unfulfilled. Music isn’t just a part of me; it defines who I am. Q: What can you tell us about some of your collaborations with world-renowned artists? Can you mention some memories that you cherish even now? A: I feel incredibly fortunate to have collaborated with some of the greatest musical minds from both Eastern and Western traditions. From working with legends like Alicia Keys, Pete Townshend, Will.i.am, and Jay-Z in the West to sharing the stage with maestros like Ustad Zakir Hussain, my father Ustad Vilayat Khan Sahib, and Pandit Kishan Maharaj in the East, and so many more, each experience has been profoundly enriching. Not all of these moments were traditional collaborations; some were opportunities to share the stage or musical space with these luminaries. In those moments, I absorbed invaluable lessons—far beyond what words can capture. Their brilliance, humility, and dedication left a lasting impact on me. Q: What can you tell us about reinterpreting “Jana Gana Mana” and your creative journey? A: The journey of reinterpreting “Jana Gana Mana” began a few months ago when I was invited to perform at an event in New York City. The hosts requested that I perform the Indian National Anthem, and as I prepared for it, I found myself reflecting deeply on its significance. This process took me down memory lane, back to my school days in Dehradun, standing in morning assemblies and singing these beautiful, meaningful songs. Watch the song here: I realised how much of the wisdom and values embedded in those songs have shaped who I am today. As I researched existing renditions of "Jana Gana Mana", I noticed that many recent versions fuse Indian sounds with Western elements, such as philharmonic orchestras, distortion guitars, and drums. While these interpretations are brilliant in their own right, I felt a deep calling to express my version rooted in the heritage of Indian classical music—the tradition that I come from and that defines me. I decided to tell this story through the sitar, an instrument that resonates with my soul. The piece begins with an alaap—a slow, meditative introduction that unfolds the melody of "Jana Gana Mana" in an improvised and exploratory way. This section represents the evolution of India over the years, rich with history and depth. It transitions into a jod, a rhythmic, high-energy segment that further explores the melody in an abstract and improvised manner. Finally, the anthem is sung, highlighting the unity and spirit of our nation. For me, this project is not just about music but also about showcasing India’s incredible diversity. Q: What were some challenging aspects of reimagining a composition such as the National Anthem? A: Reimagining a composition as iconic as "Jana Gana Mana" came with its own set of challenges. The anthem holds deep emotional and cultural significance for millions of people, so I felt a great responsibility to honour its essence while expressing my personal interpretation. Striking that balance was perhaps the most challenging aspect. I wanted to ensure my rendition stayed true to the roots of Indian classical music, resisting the temptation to incorporate popular contemporary elements like philharmonics or Western instrumentation. Instead, I focused on letting the sitar tell the story in a way that felt authentic to my tradition and heritage. Interview| Mumbai-born LA-based singer Natania on Nautanki featuring in Kay Beauty's campaign and more Q: Any message for those who listen to this rendition this Republic Day? A: Through this rendition of the Indian National Anthem, my aim is to highlight the essence of unity, diversity, and shared heritage that defines India, especially in the context of Republic Day. This day symbolizes the strength of our democracy and the values that bind us as a nation, despite our immense cultural, linguistic, and regional diversity. The journey of the alaap, the energy of the jod, and the soulfulness of the vocal segment collectively reflect the evolution of India—its struggles, triumphs, and unwavering spirit. I hope this rendition inspires a sense of pride and gratitude for our shared identity as Indians. It is a reminder of how far we’ve come as a nation and the beautiful harmony we continue to strive for.

Interview| Hidayat Husain Khan on reinterpreting National Anthem as 'Jai Hind' ahead of Republic Day 2025

Music Interview Now living in LA, Natania has come a long way from the streets of Mumbai to make her own identity in the space of contemporary music.

Heartbreaks are the worst but you can also learn a lot from them. Mumbai-born Los Angeles-based artist Natania Lalwani opened up about her new track “Nautanki” which explores heartbreak as a means to rediscover oneself, a song that integrates Indian classical musical instruments with contemporary sounds to make something truly unique. Now residing in Los Angeles, Natania has come a long way from the streets of Mumbai to make her own identity in the space of contemporary music. “When I went to LA I didn’t know anything about songwriting, I spent 3 years in college really working on the craft of songwriting. I think that really laid the foundation for me.” “LA is honestly such an inspiring place when you’re in music, you are surrounded by so much talent and most often you’re never the best one in the room (which I love), you learn from creatives every day,” explaining how it was like to start afresh and then gain popularity. From one “Nautanki” to another, here are the edited excerpts of our exclusive chat: Q: Can you walk us through the creative process of making Nautanki? A: I picked up the guitar at about 2 am and I just started singing “When I see forest green I can’t help but think of you” and had written a bit of it that night. The next day I went into the studio with David Bu and Subhi and we shaped it out a bit more. I was so excited about it that I then called my friends Aman and Zaiyd to add their spark to it and wanted to finish the song that night. I made everyone stay up way past their bedtimes but we had such a blast making the record. Q: Nautanki integrates traditional Indian music and Western sensibilities. How do you approach the fusion? Can you explain the concept for the music video? A: I try not to think too much about it and just go with my instinct. They merge because that’s who I am at my core, both these cultures and sounds - it truly feels the most like me. I had an idea of having a bunch of girls to celebrate girlhood and get some boys to show all the different characters in the dating world we live in - that’s when Sharic Sequeira, the director, came in and took the idea from 1 to 1000%. He added such a cool spin to it, making it about finding your match, cause every nautanki needs another nautanki in this crazy world. It was so great being on the same page every step of the way and he set everything up from the actors to styling and direction. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Natania (@nataniamusic) Q: How has moving from Mumbai to Los Angeles impacted your songwriting and musical style? A: When I went to LA, I didn’t know anything about songwriting, I spent 3 years in college really working on the craft of songwriting. I think that really laid the foundation for me. LA is honestly such an inspiring place when you’re in the music space. You are surrounded by so much talent and most often you’re never the best one in the room (which l love), you learn from creatives every day. With my songwriting, I’m always trying to get a little clever, or out-of-the-box to push myself out of my comfort zone. I think that happens naturally when you’re surrounded by like-minded people. Q: You've transitioned from writing for major artists like J Balvin and Skrillex to stepping into the spotlight yourself. What inspired this shift? A: I was really happy being in the studio writing for other artists. I signed my first publishing deal with Roc Nation last year and the co-founder Ty Ty had just started a South Asian label with Shabz Naqvi called Desi Trill. Their passion and excitement convinced me over an early morning phone call talking about footprints of culture and legacy and I was in. It honestly feels like the universe aligned it all for me and it was the best decision I’ve ever made. It’s definitely more vulnerable telling my own stories - but that’s the fun of it, right? Q: Nautanki was featured in Katrina Kaif's Kay Beauty bridal campaign. What can you tell us about this collaboration? A: I’ve been so excited about this campaign. Her team had reached out to me after hearing my song “Gulzar” and asked if I had anything new in the pipeline. I sent them “Nautanki” and they loved it. I think the song is so celebratory and emotional that it fits the bold nature of the beauty campaign just seamlessly. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Natania (@nataniamusic) Q: You've written for major brand campaigns and shows like Only Murders in the Building and M3GAN. How does writing for global sync differ from writing personal music? A: I think with sync I’m usually never writing anything too personal - it’s just fun. I also have a very go-getter, conquer-the-world kind of side to me so I tend to write a lot of motivational/driven songs when it comes to sync to express that side of me. Robert Pattinson is obsessed with his baby's smell: My baby smells incredible Q: After writing for artists like Armaan Malik and King in India, and now signing with Desi Trill, how do you see yourself bridging the gap between Indian and global music scenes? A: It’s always been my main goal to bridge the gap from the beginning. It was exciting doing it for “Echo” with Kshmr, Eric Nam and Armaan Malik and for “Maan Meri Jaan/Afterlife” with King and Nick Jonas. I felt super proud being a part of records like these that broke the barriers. I’m excited now for what’s to come with me being the face of my music and collaborating on the front lines. Q: What drew you to sign with Desi Trill, and how does their mission of 'Brown is Everywhere' align with your own artistic vision? A: I loved the idea of them being so supportive of blending language and culture without any barriers. It’s always fun sending them new music because they’re so passionate about it. They have so much belief in South Asian music and culture and it makes me proud and grateful to be a part of it. DESI TRILL, co-founded by Shabz Naqvi and Ty-Ty Smith, champions a fusion of hip-hop, R&B, and South Asian music, with a mission to elevate South Asian voices on the global stage. Melania Trump looks like a vision in black and white satin gown at the Inaugural Ball

Interview| Mumbai-born LA-based singer Natania on Nautanki featuring in Kay Beauty's campaign and more

Pushpa 2: The Rule was the biggest sensation of 2024. It managed to break box office records, set new standards for success and make movie-watchers believe in the magic of cinema after a dull and boring past few years where almost every big-ticket feature failed to register its presence. Starring Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, and Fahadh Faasil in roles that we&rsquo;re sure will inspire a new slate of characters on OTT and films, we got talking to actress Aanchal Munjal who manifested her way into the film.&nbsp;
Overwhelmed with the huge response to the film Pushpa 2, Aanchal Munjal is grateful that the opportunity landed on her doors. Here are the edited excerpts of our chat:&nbsp;
Q: The Pushpa franchise needs no introduction. How does all the love feel?
A: It's a very overwhelming feeling. I think we all saw it coming, to be honest, because the first part was such a massive hit, that the second had to be better and bigger, and that's exactly what it has proven to be.&nbsp;
Q: The year 2024 will always be memorable. You ended the year on such a high, any thoughts?
A: To be honest, I did not expect it. We shot a lot more scenes than what is shown in the film, and some scenes and dialogues were cut, which was slightly disappointing when I watched the final version. But from the very first day, first show itself, a lot of love started pouring in. My DMs started flooding, and now, anywhere and everywhere I go, people are referring to me as the "international crush." I&rsquo;m like, "Wow, what just happened?" I did not see this coming at all. I&rsquo;m just overwhelmed and grateful. I'm incredibly grateful for that.
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/580x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/fb834469-2d1.jpg" alt="Pushpa 2" style="width: 580px;">
<h2>On memories from Pushpa 2 set</h2>
Q: How is Allu Arjun as an actor, and do you have any fond memories from the set?
A: He&rsquo;s a fabulous human being and incredibly dedicated. I don&rsquo;t think I&rsquo;ve seen anyone as hardworking as him, except for Mr. Amitabh Bachchan. One of my fondest memories from the set was when Allu Arjun agreed to a picture.&nbsp;
We had a rule on the sets of Pushpa that no one could ask for a picture but on my last day, after developing a bond with him over ten days of shooting, I asked him for a picture, and he agreed. That was a big surprise because he never breaks that rule. It left everyone, including my director Sukumar Sir, in shock. He was kind enough to also tell me that he saw great potential in me.&nbsp;
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/580x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/8b14ac03-717.jpg" alt="Pushpa" style="width: 580px;">
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<h2>On why South Indian language films are doing better business than Bollywood</h2>
Q: Now that you have worked in both Hindi and South-language films, why do you think the latter is working better?
A: That&rsquo;s a controversial question, but I&rsquo;ll answer smartly. Honestly, there&rsquo;s no comparison left between South and Bollywood anymore. We've seen films like Baahubali and Pushpa doing really well, just like we've seen Animal and other Bollywood films performing well. It all boils down to the script being the hero and, of course, what pleases the audience. At the end of the day, it&rsquo;s what the audience connects with that matters, and no region is superior to the other.
Q: What&rsquo;s next on your plate after Pushpa 2?
A: There&rsquo;s a lot going on, but I prefer not to talk about things until they materialise. I&rsquo;ve heard from many people that in big films, a lot of scenes get cut. For instance, Fahadh Faasil shot for 15 days with nothing shown, and Allu Arjun himself shot for a whole chunk in Japan, but it all had to be cut. I feel talking about things beforehand only makes you look foolish. Once everything materialises and the edit is locked in, that&rsquo;s when I&rsquo;ll talk about it.
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/durjoy-datta-discusses-themes-of-fidelity-revenge-forgiveness-in-audiobook-the-revenge-podcast-interview-8595427" aria-label="Durjoy Datta discusses themes of fidelity, revenge in audiobook The Revenge Podcast | Interview">Durjoy Datta discusses themes of fidelity, revenge in audiobook The Revenge Podcast | Interview</a></h2>
<h2>On Allu Arjun's arrest in connection with stampede death</h2>
Q: While the film&rsquo;s doing great business even now in some places, the film was clouded in controversy when a tragedy happened on the premiere date. Do you think it&rsquo;s right to blame Allu Arjun for the stampede death?
A: Absolutely not and I&rsquo;ll quote Varun Dhawan here because I saw him speak about this at a press conference, and I completely agree with him. One individual cannot be blamed for something as tragic as this. The loss is irreplaceable, but it&rsquo;s not fair to blame one person. I&rsquo;m glad the family of the victim withdrew the case and that the person is back home safely. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/allu-arjuns-bail-terms-relaxed-in-pushpa-2-stampede-case-8610236">Allu Arjun's bail terms relaxed in Pushpa 2 stampede case</a>
Q: Looking ahead, what are your hopes for 2025 and how would you sum up 2024?
A: To be better and bigger, of course.
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/580x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/post_attachments/50ff4dfe-de7.jpg" alt="Aanchal" style="width: 580px;">
As for 2024, it was magical. The year started with a lot of travel and music videos, and I didn&rsquo;t see this coming in May. Since then, I've been busy with a lot of projects, some of which I can't speak about yet. There&rsquo;s a surprise coming up, and everyone will be surprised when they see me on screen again.

In an exclusive conversation, Pushpa 2 actress Aanchal Munjal opens up on whether its right to blame Allu Arjun for the stampede and fond memories of working with Allu Arjun.

Pushpa 2: The Rule was the biggest sensation of 2024. It managed to break box office records, set new standards for success and make movie-watchers believe in the magic of cinema after a dull and boring past few years where almost every big-ticket feature failed to register its presence. Starring Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, and Fahadh Faasil in roles that we’re sure will inspire a new slate of characters on OTT and films, we got talking to actress Aanchal Munjal who manifested her way into the film. Overwhelmed with the huge response to the film Pushpa 2, Aanchal Munjal is grateful that the opportunity landed on her doors. Here are the edited excerpts of our chat: Q: The Pushpa franchise needs no introduction. How does all the love feel? A: It's a very overwhelming feeling. I think we all saw it coming, to be honest, because the first part was such a massive hit, that the second had to be better and bigger, and that's exactly what it has proven to be. Q: The year 2024 will always be memorable. You ended the year on such a high, any thoughts? A: To be honest, I did not expect it. We shot a lot more scenes than what is shown in the film, and some scenes and dialogues were cut, which was slightly disappointing when I watched the final version. But from the very first day, first show itself, a lot of love started pouring in. My DMs started flooding, and now, anywhere and everywhere I go, people are referring to me as the "international crush." I’m like, "Wow, what just happened?" I did not see this coming at all. I’m just overwhelmed and grateful. I'm incredibly grateful for that. On memories from Pushpa 2 set Q: How is Allu Arjun as an actor, and do you have any fond memories from the set? A: He’s a fabulous human being and incredibly dedicated. I don’t think I’ve seen anyone as hardworking as him, except for Mr. Amitabh Bachchan. One of my fondest memories from the set was when Allu Arjun agreed to a picture. We had a rule on the sets of Pushpa that no one could ask for a picture but on my last day, after developing a bond with him over ten days of shooting, I asked him for a picture, and he agreed. That was a big surprise because he never breaks that rule. It left everyone, including my director Sukumar Sir, in shock. He was kind enough to also tell me that he saw great potential in me. Interview | Rapper Mischief has already jammed with dad Talat Aziz. How come no one knows? On why South Indian language films are doing better business than Bollywood Q: Now that you have worked in both Hindi and South-language films, why do you think the latter is working better? A: That’s a controversial question, but I’ll answer smartly. Honestly, there’s no comparison left between South and Bollywood anymore. We've seen films like Baahubali and Pushpa doing really well, just like we've seen Animal and other Bollywood films performing well. It all boils down to the script being the hero and, of course, what pleases the audience. At the end of the day, it’s what the audience connects with that matters, and no region is superior to the other. Q: What’s next on your plate after Pushpa 2? A: There’s a lot going on, but I prefer not to talk about things until they materialise. I’ve heard from many people that in big films, a lot of scenes get cut. For instance, Fahadh Faasil shot for 15 days with nothing shown, and Allu Arjun himself shot for a whole chunk in Japan, but it all had to be cut. I feel talking about things beforehand only makes you look foolish. Once everything materialises and the edit is locked in, that’s when I’ll talk about it. Durjoy Datta discusses themes of fidelity, revenge in audiobook The Revenge Podcast | Interview On Allu Arjun's arrest in connection with stampede death Q: While the film’s doing great business even now in some places, the film was clouded in controversy when a tragedy happened on the premiere date. Do you think it’s right to blame Allu Arjun for the stampede death? A: Absolutely not and I’ll quote Varun Dhawan here because I saw him speak about this at a press conference, and I completely agree with him. One individual cannot be blamed for something as tragic as this. The loss is irreplaceable, but it’s not fair to blame one person. I’m glad the family of the victim withdrew the case and that the person is back home safely. Allu Arjun's bail terms relaxed in Pushpa 2 stampede case Q: Looking ahead, what are your hopes for 2025 and how would you sum up 2024? A: To be better and bigger, of course. As for 2024, it was magical. The year started with a lot of travel and music videos, and I didn’t see this coming in May. Since then, I've been busy with a lot of projects, some of which I can't speak about yet. There’s a surprise coming up, and everyone will be surprised when they see me on screen again.

Interview| Pushpa 2 actor Aanchal Munjal shares fond memory with Allu Arjun: 'He never breaks rule....'

Mischief aka Aiden Aziz is not your regular artist. He wants to be loved as a musician who never takes things or life (for that matter) too seriously and embraces a bit of chaos in his pursuit of creativity.
With the success of his recently released track &ldquo;Cleopatra&rdquo; and the amazing response he&rsquo;s receiving for the music video of his track &ldquo;Blue Pills&rdquo; which uses artificial intelligence to bring a vibe that a regular shot would not have captured, Mischief spoke to us exclusively about whether or not his music is mischievous like his stage name, his &ldquo;hidden in plain sight&rdquo; collaboration with ghazal singer-actor father Talat Aziz and if growing up in a house with music playing in the background helped him make this career choice.
Here are the edited excerpts of our chat:
Q: Aiden. How do you come up with this stage name &ndash; Mischief?
A: The name came naturally to me because it felt authentic to who I am, both as a person and an artist. It&rsquo;s a reminder to never take things too seriously and to always embrace a bit of chaos in the pursuit of creativity. They say when you&rsquo;ve been traumatised enough times, you stop taking things so seriously.&nbsp;
<h2>Who is Mischief- The Artist?</h2>
Q: Were you mischievous growing up? Is your music mischievous?
A: Yeah, I was definitely mischievous growing up. I loved joking around, pulling pranks, and doing things for shock value&mdash;just to see how people would react. I guess you could say I had a bit of a mastermind streak even back then. I liked staying two steps ahead, always planning my moves like a chess game. It&rsquo;s kind of like being the Riddler, you know? Calculative and creative with just enough chaos to keep things interesting.
As for my music, it reflects all the layers of my personality. Some of it is mischievous&mdash;playful, challenging norms, and poking fun at things. But it&rsquo;s not all mischief. There&rsquo;s a deeper, more serious side that&rsquo;s raw and real.&nbsp;
I think being mischievous is just a synonym for being authentic. Most people try to hide their imperfections or their rebellious side, but I embrace mine. Who I am&mdash;good, bad, or misunderstood and everything in between&mdash;is what you&rsquo;ll see and hear in my music. The unpredictability, my motives, the risks I&rsquo;ve taken, having that natural edge&mdash;it&rsquo;s all part of being mischievous.
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/are-grammys-getting-postponed-due-to-la-wildfires-heres-what-we-know-8612349" aria-label="Grammys to get delayed due to LA wildfires? Here's what we know">Grammys to get delayed due to LA wildfires? Here's what we know</a></h2>
Q: What can you tell us about the inspiration behind your music?
A: It&rsquo;s really an amalgamation of everything I&rsquo;ve grown up with&mdash;the artists I&rsquo;ve listened to, the sounds I&rsquo;ve absorbed, and the styles that have resonated with me over time. It&rsquo;s all of that mixed with my own unique perspective. I&rsquo;m always exploring new sounds, experimenting with styles, and finding ways to present myself authentically true to myself.
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</a>
<p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DDzTeHEqHIS/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Mischief (@dakingmischief)</a>
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</blockquote>
I&rsquo;m cut from a different cloth, I wouldn&rsquo;t fit in even if I tried to and believe me I&rsquo;ve tried in the past, but when I realised I can&rsquo;t be like them, and I&rsquo;m not just another addition I decided to stand out amongst the long line of carbon copies by own admission. I embrace it now.&nbsp;
I believe every artist should express themselves fully, and unapologetically, and create something that feels unique to who they are. My mantra is simple: don&rsquo;t be another copy. Be your own, by your own admission. That&rsquo;s the essence of what drives me creatively.
Q: Was music a big influence in your life growing up?
A: Music was, and still is, everything to me. It&rsquo;s been my friend, my guide, and even my parent at times. Growing up, the artists I listened to became what the people in my life couldn&rsquo;t always be for me. It was just me and the music most of the time, and that connection shaped who I am today.
What I love most about music is its honesty. Through an artist&rsquo;s expression, you hear their truth&mdash;more raw and real than they might ever say in conversation.&nbsp;
Not all music is honest, of course, but the emotion behind it is often genuine, and that&rsquo;s what resonates with me. Music doesn&rsquo;t sugarcoat life. It&rsquo;s not a sweet world we live and it&rsquo;s not always sweet words or picture-perfect gestures we use to express ourselves. Everyone is flawed but that&rsquo;s what makes it so beautiful and relatable.&nbsp;
<h2>Artificial Intelligence in music</h2>
Q: You&rsquo;ve used AI to create the video for Blue Pills. What can you tell us about that vision? Can technology ever replace human talent?
A: Technology will never replace human talent. There&rsquo;s magic in imperfection that no machine can replicate. The beauty of human expression lies in its flaws&mdash;those unpredictable moments that make a song or a piece of art feel alive. When you listen to something created entirely by AI, it can sometimes feel too perfect, or too structured, and that takes away the raw, human quality that resonates with us. The greatest works of art&mdash;whether music, painting, or film&mdash;were never perfect, and that&rsquo;s what makes them timeless.
That said, AI is a powerful tool that&rsquo;s changing the game for creators. For instance, with the Blue Pills video, I was able to bring a vision to life that might&rsquo;ve required a massive budget a few years ago. Now, artists like me can produce cinematic visuals that look like they belong in a big-budget blockbuster, but with just a fraction of the cost. AI allows us to translate imagination into reality, opening up endless possibilities for creativity.
AI also offers other fascinating applications, like de-ageing voices or actors. Imagine hearing a legendary artist who&rsquo;s no longer with us&mdash;or creating new work that feels like it&rsquo;s from their prime. It&rsquo;s mind-blowing what we can do with technology today, and it&rsquo;s only getting better.
For me, AI is a tool to enhance creativity, not replace it. It&rsquo;s a way to push boundaries and explore new frontiers, but the heart of the work&mdash;the emotion, the authenticity&mdash;still comes from the human experience. I&rsquo;ve got so much more in store, from The World Is Mine to the next wave of videos, and I&rsquo;m excited to use AI to bring those ideas to life. The future is limitless.
<h2 class="gh-archive-page-post-title"><a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/we-are-safe-as-of-now-amid-smoggy-skies-preity-zinta-shares-horrific-details-of-los-angeles-wildfire-8612018" aria-label="'We are safe as of now' amid 'smoggy skies': Preity Zinta shares horrific details of Los Angeles Wildfire">'We are safe as of now' amid 'smoggy skies': Preity Zinta shares horrific details of Los Angeles Wildfire</a></h2>
<h2>Aiden Aziz and dad Talat Aziz have already collaborated</h2>
Q: Do you and your dad share notes on music? Can we ever expect a collaboration between you two?
A: Honestly, me and my dad don&rsquo;t really share notes. He&rsquo;s in a completely different musical world&mdash;he listens to ghazals and classical music, and he has no idea about rap or the genres I work in. It&rsquo;s not his thing, and that&rsquo;s fine. Our styles are so different that it&rsquo;s like two parallel universes.
That said, I did secretly include him in one of my songs, "Cleopatra". He&rsquo;s actually singing with me in it, but I never mentioned it to anyone because I wanted to see if people could pick it out. It was a little experiment, maybe even a bit of my own vanity, but it was a cool way to blend his world with mine. So, technically, a collaboration has already happened&mdash;it&rsquo;s just hidden in plain sight.

In an exclusive interview, Aiden Aziz aka Mischief breaks down what growing up in a house where ghazals and classical music were played predominantly was like and more.

Mischief aka Aiden Aziz is not your regular artist. He wants to be loved as a musician who never takes things or life (for that matter) too seriously and embraces a bit of chaos in his pursuit of creativity. With the success of his recently released track “Cleopatra” and the amazing response he’s receiving for the music video of his track “Blue Pills” which uses artificial intelligence to bring a vibe that a regular shot would not have captured, Mischief spoke to us exclusively about whether or not his music is mischievous like his stage name, his “hidden in plain sight” collaboration with ghazal singer-actor father Talat Aziz and if growing up in a house with music playing in the background helped him make this career choice. Here are the edited excerpts of our chat: Q: Aiden. How do you come up with this stage name – Mischief? A: The name came naturally to me because it felt authentic to who I am, both as a person and an artist. It’s a reminder to never take things too seriously and to always embrace a bit of chaos in the pursuit of creativity. They say when you’ve been traumatised enough times, you stop taking things so seriously. Who is Mischief- The Artist? Q: Were you mischievous growing up? Is your music mischievous? A: Yeah, I was definitely mischievous growing up. I loved joking around, pulling pranks, and doing things for shock value—just to see how people would react. I guess you could say I had a bit of a mastermind streak even back then. I liked staying two steps ahead, always planning my moves like a chess game. It’s kind of like being the Riddler, you know? Calculative and creative with just enough chaos to keep things interesting. As for my music, it reflects all the layers of my personality. Some of it is mischievous—playful, challenging norms, and poking fun at things. But it’s not all mischief. There’s a deeper, more serious side that’s raw and real. I think being mischievous is just a synonym for being authentic. Most people try to hide their imperfections or their rebellious side, but I embrace mine. Who I am—good, bad, or misunderstood and everything in between—is what you’ll see and hear in my music. The unpredictability, my motives, the risks I’ve taken, having that natural edge—it’s all part of being mischievous. Grammys to get delayed due to LA wildfires? Here's what we know Q: What can you tell us about the inspiration behind your music? A: It’s really an amalgamation of everything I’ve grown up with—the artists I’ve listened to, the sounds I’ve absorbed, and the styles that have resonated with me over time. It’s all of that mixed with my own unique perspective. I’m always exploring new sounds, experimenting with styles, and finding ways to present myself authentically true to myself. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mischief (@dakingmischief) I’m cut from a different cloth, I wouldn’t fit in even if I tried to and believe me I’ve tried in the past, but when I realised I can’t be like them, and I’m not just another addition I decided to stand out amongst the long line of carbon copies by own admission. I embrace it now. I believe every artist should express themselves fully, and unapologetically, and create something that feels unique to who they are. My mantra is simple: don’t be another copy. Be your own, by your own admission. That’s the essence of what drives me creatively. Q: Was music a big influence in your life growing up? A: Music was, and still is, everything to me. It’s been my friend, my guide, and even my parent at times. Growing up, the artists I listened to became what the people in my life couldn’t always be for me. It was just me and the music most of the time, and that connection shaped who I am today. What I love most about music is its honesty. Through an artist’s expression, you hear their truth—more raw and real than they might ever say in conversation. Not all music is honest, of course, but the emotion behind it is often genuine, and that’s what resonates with me. Music doesn’t sugarcoat life. It’s not a sweet world we live and it’s not always sweet words or picture-perfect gestures we use to express ourselves. Everyone is flawed but that’s what makes it so beautiful and relatable. Artificial Intelligence in music Q: You’ve used AI to create the video for Blue Pills. What can you tell us about that vision? Can technology ever replace human talent? A: Technology will never replace human talent. There’s magic in imperfection that no machine can replicate. The beauty of human expression lies in its flaws—those unpredictable moments that make a song or a piece of art feel alive. When you listen to something created entirely by AI, it can sometimes feel too perfect, or too structured, and that takes away the raw, human quality that resonates with us. The greatest works of art—whether music, painting, or film—were never perfect, and that’s what makes them timeless. That said, AI is a powerful tool that’s changing the game for creators. For instance, with the Blue Pills video, I was able to bring a vision to life that might’ve required a massive budget a few years ago. Now, artists like me can produce cinematic visuals that look like they belong in a big-budget blockbuster, but with just a fraction of the cost. AI allows us to translate imagination into reality, opening up endless possibilities for creativity. AI also offers other fascinating applications, like de-ageing voices or actors. Imagine hearing a legendary artist who’s no longer with us—or creating new work that feels like it’s from their prime. It’s mind-blowing what we can do with technology today, and it’s only getting better. For me, AI is a tool to enhance creativity, not replace it. It’s a way to push boundaries and explore new frontiers, but the heart of the work—the emotion, the authenticity—still comes from the human experience. I’ve got so much more in store, from The World Is Mine to the next wave of videos, and I’m excited to use AI to bring those ideas to life. The future is limitless. 'We are safe as of now' amid 'smoggy skies': Preity Zinta shares horrific details of Los Angeles Wildfire Aiden Aziz and dad Talat Aziz have already collaborated Q: Do you and your dad share notes on music? Can we ever expect a collaboration between you two? A: Honestly, me and my dad don’t really share notes. He’s in a completely different musical world—he listens to ghazals and classical music, and he has no idea about rap or the genres I work in. It’s not his thing, and that’s fine. Our styles are so different that it’s like two parallel universes. That said, I did secretly include him in one of my songs, "Cleopatra". He’s actually singing with me in it, but I never mentioned it to anyone because I wanted to see if people could pick it out. It was a little experiment, maybe even a bit of my own vanity, but it was a cool way to blend his world with mine. So, technically, a collaboration has already happened—it’s just hidden in plain sight.

Interview | Rapper Mischief has already jammed with dad Talat Aziz. How come no one knows?

Durjoy Datta recently launched the much-talked-about audiobook The Revenge Podcast which takes a unique view on themes of morality, love, relationships and the ever-evolving meaning of commitment. The audiobook&nbsp;The Revenge Podcast tells the story of Deb and Avantika, two jilted lovers bound by betrayal. They channel their raw emotions into candid conversations about the ultimate betrayal: their partners cheating with each other. What begins as an outlet to vent spirals into a rollercoaster of confessions, burning questions, and unexpected revelations. The duo go through a rollercoaster of emotions of revenge, forgiveness and more.
In an email conversation, Durjoy discusses the theme of his audiobook, how storytelling is evolving with technology, and what it means to expand on the audio medium.&nbsp;
Here are the edited excerpts of our chat:
Q: What&rsquo;s the central theme of the audiobook?&nbsp;
A: The Revenge Podcast is about this interesting space where heartbreak meets podcast. Deb and Avantika start a podcast to vent about their cheating exes - and weirdly, their shared hatred for cricket becomes this running theme. What begins as a revenge project starts resonating with people who've been through similar pain.
The interesting part is how their relationship evolves while they're busy creating content about their past relationships. They're processing their trauma on air, and somewhere between episodes, they start developing feelings for each other. But it's complicated - they're both still healing, both still figuring things out.
<h2>Why are audiobooks becoming so popular?</h2>
Q: Audiobooks have become exceptionally popular in the past few years. How do you feel about it?
A: It's fascinating to see how storytelling is evolving. I think podcasts and audiobooks aren't replacing written literature but adding new dimensions to it. When I write a book, I imagine readers alone with their thoughts, creating their own version of the characters. But when the same story is narrated, it becomes this intimate experience where someone's literally telling you a story. It reminds me of how we all grew up listening to stories from others or telling our own. Different medium, same magic.
Q: As an author who enjoys popularity, how comfortable are you with the idea of audiobooks?
A: I was skeptical at first about audiobooks - you know how authors can be protective about their work but I've come to appreciate how they make stories accessible to people who might not have time to sit down with a book. My readers, especially younger ones, often tell me they listen to books during their commute or while working out. It's beautiful how stories can now fit into these spaces of our busy lives.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/5-audiobooks-for-the-perfect-head-start-for-2025-8588206">5 Audiobooks For The Perfect Head Start For 2025</a>
<h2>Durjoy Datta's top recommendations in books</h2>
Q: Which are your top 5 book recommendations for this year? Any audiobooks and podcasts that you're listening to or have been your favourites?
A: Sometimes I buy audiobooks of the same books I&rsquo;m reading hard copies of. This year I have to listen to at least a part of these books in audiobook format.
- Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin - Yellowface by R.F. Kuang - How to Know A Person by David Brooks&nbsp; - We Solve Murders by Richard Osman&nbsp;
Q: What can you tell us about your association with Audible?
Working with Audible has been eye-opening. When your words are being performed rather than just read, it adds this whole new layer to storytelling. I've learned a lot about how stories can be experienced differently when heard versus read. It's made me more conscious about rhythm and sound even when I'm writing for the page.
&nbsp;

In his audiobook, The Revenge Podcast, two jilted lovers Deb and Avantika go through a sea of emotions after being cheated on by their respective partners.

Durjoy Datta recently launched the much-talked-about audiobook The Revenge Podcast which takes a unique view on themes of morality, love, relationships and the ever-evolving meaning of commitment. The audiobook The Revenge Podcast tells the story of Deb and Avantika, two jilted lovers bound by betrayal. They channel their raw emotions into candid conversations about the ultimate betrayal: their partners cheating with each other. What begins as an outlet to vent spirals into a rollercoaster of confessions, burning questions, and unexpected revelations. The duo go through a rollercoaster of emotions of revenge, forgiveness and more. In an email conversation, Durjoy discusses the theme of his audiobook, how storytelling is evolving with technology, and what it means to expand on the audio medium. Here are the edited excerpts of our chat: Q: What’s the central theme of the audiobook? A: The Revenge Podcast is about this interesting space where heartbreak meets podcast. Deb and Avantika start a podcast to vent about their cheating exes - and weirdly, their shared hatred for cricket becomes this running theme. What begins as a revenge project starts resonating with people who've been through similar pain. The interesting part is how their relationship evolves while they're busy creating content about their past relationships. They're processing their trauma on air, and somewhere between episodes, they start developing feelings for each other. But it's complicated - they're both still healing, both still figuring things out. Why are audiobooks becoming so popular? Q: Audiobooks have become exceptionally popular in the past few years. How do you feel about it? A: It's fascinating to see how storytelling is evolving. I think podcasts and audiobooks aren't replacing written literature but adding new dimensions to it. When I write a book, I imagine readers alone with their thoughts, creating their own version of the characters. But when the same story is narrated, it becomes this intimate experience where someone's literally telling you a story. It reminds me of how we all grew up listening to stories from others or telling our own. Different medium, same magic. Q: As an author who enjoys popularity, how comfortable are you with the idea of audiobooks? A: I was skeptical at first about audiobooks - you know how authors can be protective about their work but I've come to appreciate how they make stories accessible to people who might not have time to sit down with a book. My readers, especially younger ones, often tell me they listen to books during their commute or while working out. It's beautiful how stories can now fit into these spaces of our busy lives. Also read: 5 Audiobooks For The Perfect Head Start For 2025 Durjoy Datta's top recommendations in books Q: Which are your top 5 book recommendations for this year? Any audiobooks and podcasts that you're listening to or have been your favourites? A: Sometimes I buy audiobooks of the same books I’m reading hard copies of. This year I have to listen to at least a part of these books in audiobook format. - Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin - Yellowface by R.F. Kuang - How to Know A Person by David Brooks - We Solve Murders by Richard Osman Q: What can you tell us about your association with Audible? Working with Audible has been eye-opening. When your words are being performed rather than just read, it adds this whole new layer to storytelling. I've learned a lot about how stories can be experienced differently when heard versus read. It's made me more conscious about rhythm and sound even when I'm writing for the page.

Durjoy Datta discusses themes of fidelity, revenge in audiobook The Revenge Podcast | Interview

New Delhi
Come new year and award-winning Indian flautist Ronu Majumdar is gearing for his highly awaited international album. A flute artist of the Hindustani classical music tradition, Ronu has never shied from experimenting with different styles of music. Trained in classical, Ronu has worked in Bollywood films, has jammed with international artists and wants to do many more collaborations that are different from anything he’s done before. 
In conversation with WION, flautist Ronu Majumdar opened up about all good things that he hopes for in 2025:
Q: Can you tell us more about your highly awaited international album? 
A: My international album is currently in progress and is a collaboration with the Indian musical composer and three-time Grammy winner, Ricky Kej. We have already recorded two tracks, and I am eagerly waiting for the final cut. Besides this, I am working on a folk-based album, which will be completed soon. I am eagerly waiting to complete both albums and share the release dates with my audience soon.
Q: Your performances and collaborations have left an indelible mark on the music world. Which of your jugalbandis holds a special place in your heart?
A: One of my most memorable jugalbandis was with the renowned American musician and songwriter Ry Cooder, who is hailed as the father of world music. Our collaborations on several albums, including Fascinoma and Hollow Bamboo, as well as the Hollywood film Primary Colours, have been enriching. 
My collaboration with the legendary late Dr. Balamurali Krishna also holds a special place in my heart. My collaborations with him introduced me to the South Indian instrument, Saraswati Veena, more closely. Initially, I was fond of the instrument, but over time it has become more special to me and has influenced my musical journey.
Q: You have never shied from Bollywood too. Which of your Bollywood compositions holds the most meaning to you?
A: Bollywood has been an integral part of my life and career, and throughout this musical journey, several compositions have touched my heart. For example, the song "Kuch Na Kaho" from 1942: A Love Story, which I played with RD Burman, holds an emotional significance as it was the last film before we lost Pancham Da. Other songs that are special to me include "Yaad Aarahi Hai" from Kumar Gaurav’s first movie Love Story, and various collaborations with Kishore Kumar. 
The song "Khali Haath Shaam Aayi Hai" featuring Asha Bhosle was also a memorable experience. Discussing these musical gems brings to mind the beautiful composition “Yeh Kya Hua” from the movie Amar Prem. Though I was not a part of the song, I really enjoy its melody.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/breaking-down-how-atul-kumar-re-imagined-mark-haddons-classic-novel-for-indian-audience-786202">Breaking down how Atul Kumar re-imagined Mark Haddon’s classic novel for Indian audience</a>
Q: As a disciple of the revered Pandit Ravi Shankar, you have carried forward his incredible legacy. How do you ensure that this rich tradition of music reaches the aspiring musicians?
A: Pandit Ravi Shankar was a Bharat Ratna, but we affectionately refer to him as Vishwaratna. I am dedicated to carrying forward his Beenkari style and popularizing the richness of his music. I also have even designed a Shankh Bansuri, a 3 and ⅕ -ft long flute to propagate his teachings and connect with the new generation of musicians. 
Today’s young musicians are keen to learn about our roots and cultural heritage, and it is really inspiring to see their enthusiasm. I intend to keep them motivated and help preserve the richness of our guru’s legacy through music.

Indian flute artist Ronu Majumdar is gearing up for a new international album in the new year. Ronu spoke to WION about his musical journey, collaborations with Bollywood legends and more. 



New Delhi Come new year and award-winning Indian flautist Ronu Majumdar is gearing for his highly awaited international album. A flute artist of the Hindustani classical music tradition, Ronu has never shied from experimenting with different styles of music. Trained in classical, Ronu has worked in Bollywood films, has jammed with international artists and wants to do many more collaborations that are different from anything he’s done before. In conversation with WION, flautist Ronu Majumdar opened up about all good things that he hopes for in 2025: Q: Can you tell us more about your highly awaited international album? A: My international album is currently in progress and is a collaboration with the Indian musical composer and three-time Grammy winner, Ricky Kej. We have already recorded two tracks, and I am eagerly waiting for the final cut. Besides this, I am working on a folk-based album, which will be completed soon. I am eagerly waiting to complete both albums and share the release dates with my audience soon. Q: Your performances and collaborations have left an indelible mark on the music world. Which of your jugalbandis holds a special place in your heart? A: One of my most memorable jugalbandis was with the renowned American musician and songwriter Ry Cooder, who is hailed as the father of world music. Our collaborations on several albums, including Fascinoma and Hollow Bamboo, as well as the Hollywood film Primary Colours, have been enriching. My collaboration with the legendary late Dr. Balamurali Krishna also holds a special place in my heart. My collaborations with him introduced me to the South Indian instrument, Saraswati Veena, more closely. Initially, I was fond of the instrument, but over time it has become more special to me and has influenced my musical journey. Q: You have never shied from Bollywood too. Which of your Bollywood compositions holds the most meaning to you? A: Bollywood has been an integral part of my life and career, and throughout this musical journey, several compositions have touched my heart. For example, the song "Kuch Na Kaho" from 1942: A Love Story, which I played with RD Burman, holds an emotional significance as it was the last film before we lost Pancham Da. Other songs that are special to me include "Yaad Aarahi Hai" from Kumar Gaurav’s first movie Love Story, and various collaborations with Kishore Kumar. The song "Khali Haath Shaam Aayi Hai" featuring Asha Bhosle was also a memorable experience. Discussing these musical gems brings to mind the beautiful composition “Yeh Kya Hua” from the movie Amar Prem. Though I was not a part of the song, I really enjoy its melody. Also read: Breaking down how Atul Kumar re-imagined Mark Haddon’s classic novel for Indian audience Q: As a disciple of the revered Pandit Ravi Shankar, you have carried forward his incredible legacy. How do you ensure that this rich tradition of music reaches the aspiring musicians? A: Pandit Ravi Shankar was a Bharat Ratna, but we affectionately refer to him as Vishwaratna. I am dedicated to carrying forward his Beenkari style and popularizing the richness of his music. I also have even designed a Shankh Bansuri, a 3 and ⅕ -ft long flute to propagate his teachings and connect with the new generation of musicians. Today’s young musicians are keen to learn about our roots and cultural heritage, and it is really inspiring to see their enthusiasm. I intend to keep them motivated and help preserve the richness of our guru’s legacy through music.

From collabs with RD Burman to Kishore Kumar, Ronu Majumdar revisits his musical journey

Come new year and award-winning Indian flautist Ronu Majumdar is gearing for his highly awaited international album. A flute artist of the Hindustani classical music tradition, Ronu has never shied from experimenting with different styles of music. Trained in classical, Ronu has worked in Bollywood films, has jammed with international artists and wants to do many more collaborations that are different from anything he’s done before.&nbsp;

In conversation with WION, flautist Ronu Majumdar opened up about all good things that he hopes for in 2025:

Q: Can you tell us more about your highly awaited international album?&nbsp;

A: My international album is currently in progress and is a collaboration with the Indian musical composer and three-time Grammy winner, Ricky Kej. We have already recorded two tracks, and I am eagerly waiting for the final cut. Besides this, I am working on a folk-based album, which will be completed soon. I am eagerly waiting to complete both albums and share the release dates with my audience soon.

Q: Your performances and collaborations have left an indelible mark on the music world. Which of your jugalbandis holds a special place in your heart?

A: One of my most memorable jugalbandis was with the renowned American musician and songwriter Ry Cooder, who is hailed as the father of world music. Our collaborations on several albums, including Fascinoma and Hollow Bamboo, as well as the Hollywood film Primary Colours, have been enriching.&nbsp;

My collaboration with the legendary late Dr. Balamurali Krishna also holds a special place in my heart. My collaborations with him introduced me to the South Indian instrument, Saraswati Veena, more closely. Initially, I was fond of the instrument, but over time it has become more special to me and has influenced my musical journey.

Q: You have never shied from Bollywood too. Which of your Bollywood compositions holds the most meaning to you?

A: Bollywood has been an integral part of my life and career, and throughout this musical journey, several compositions have touched my heart. For example, the song "Kuch Na Kaho" from 1942: A Love Story, which I played with RD Burman, holds an emotional significance as it was the last film before we lost Pancham Da. Other songs that are special to me include "Yaad Aarahi Hai" from Kumar Gaurav’s first movie Love Story, and various collaborations with Kishore Kumar.&nbsp;

The song "Khali Haath Shaam Aayi Hai" featuring Asha Bhosle was also a memorable experience. Discussing these musical gems brings to mind the beautiful composition “Yeh Kya Hua” from the movie Amar Prem. Though I was not a part of the song, I really enjoy its melody.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/breaking-down-how-atul-kumar-re-imagined-mark-haddons-classic-novel-for-indian-audience-786202">Breaking down how Atul Kumar re-imagined Mark Haddon’s classic novel for Indian audience</a>

Q: As a disciple of the revered Pandit Ravi Shankar, you have carried forward his incredible legacy. How do you ensure that this rich tradition of music reaches the aspiring musicians?

A: Pandit Ravi Shankar was a Bharat Ratna, but we affectionately refer to him as Vishwaratna. I am dedicated to carrying forward his Beenkari style and popularizing the richness of his music. I also have even designed a Shankh Bansuri, a 3 and ⅕ -ft long flute to propagate his teachings and connect with the new generation of musicians.&nbsp;

Today’s young musicians are keen to learn about our roots and cultural heritage, and it is really inspiring to see their enthusiasm. I intend to keep them motivated and help preserve the richness of our guru’s legacy through music.

Come new year and award-winning Indian flautist Ronu Majumdar is gearing for his highly awaited international album. A flute artist of the Hindustani classical music tradition, Ronu has never shied from experimenting with different styles of music.

Come new year and award-winning Indian flautist Ronu Majumdar is gearing for his highly awaited international album. A flute artist of the Hindustani classical music tradition, Ronu has never shied from experimenting with different styles of music. Trained in classical, Ronu has worked in Bollywood films, has jammed with international artists and wants to do many more collaborations that are different from anything he’s done before. In conversation with WION, flautist Ronu Majumdar opened up about all good things that he hopes for in 2025: Q: Can you tell us more about your highly awaited international album? A: My international album is currently in progress and is a collaboration with the Indian musical composer and three-time Grammy winner, Ricky Kej. We have already recorded two tracks, and I am eagerly waiting for the final cut. Besides this, I am working on a folk-based album, which will be completed soon. I am eagerly waiting to complete both albums and share the release dates with my audience soon. Q: Your performances and collaborations have left an indelible mark on the music world. Which of your jugalbandis holds a special place in your heart? A: One of my most memorable jugalbandis was with the renowned American musician and songwriter Ry Cooder, who is hailed as the father of world music. Our collaborations on several albums, including Fascinoma and Hollow Bamboo, as well as the Hollywood film Primary Colours, have been enriching. My collaboration with the legendary late Dr. Balamurali Krishna also holds a special place in my heart. My collaborations with him introduced me to the South Indian instrument, Saraswati Veena, more closely. Initially, I was fond of the instrument, but over time it has become more special to me and has influenced my musical journey. Q: You have never shied from Bollywood too. Which of your Bollywood compositions holds the most meaning to you? A: Bollywood has been an integral part of my life and career, and throughout this musical journey, several compositions have touched my heart. For example, the song "Kuch Na Kaho" from 1942: A Love Story, which I played with RD Burman, holds an emotional significance as it was the last film before we lost Pancham Da. Other songs that are special to me include "Yaad Aarahi Hai" from Kumar Gaurav’s first movie Love Story, and various collaborations with Kishore Kumar. The song "Khali Haath Shaam Aayi Hai" featuring Asha Bhosle was also a memorable experience. Discussing these musical gems brings to mind the beautiful composition “Yeh Kya Hua” from the movie Amar Prem. Though I was not a part of the song, I really enjoy its melody. Also read: Breaking down how Atul Kumar re-imagined Mark Haddon’s classic novel for Indian audience Q: As a disciple of the revered Pandit Ravi Shankar, you have carried forward his incredible legacy. How do you ensure that this rich tradition of music reaches the aspiring musicians? A: Pandit Ravi Shankar was a Bharat Ratna, but we affectionately refer to him as Vishwaratna. I am dedicated to carrying forward his Beenkari style and popularizing the richness of his music. I also have even designed a Shankh Bansuri, a 3 and ⅕ -ft long flute to propagate his teachings and connect with the new generation of musicians. Today’s young musicians are keen to learn about our roots and cultural heritage, and it is really inspiring to see their enthusiasm. I intend to keep them motivated and help preserve the richness of our guru’s legacy through music.

The World Economic Forum monitors the ever-evolving landscape of trade & economy. At the recently concluded Riyadh summit 2024, WION’s business editor Rahul Karunakar spoke to Matthew Stephenson, head of investment & services, WEF on the emerging tech & geo-economic shifts around the world. Listen in…

‘3 Major Shifts: Geo-economic, Tech & Green Energy’: WION’s Exclusive With Head Of Investment, WEF

In this exclusive interview with WION, Kobbi Shoshani, Israel's Consul General to the Midwest India, shares his perspective on key issues. He discusses his assessment of Syria and expectations from the current regime change, Israel’s bombing of facilities in Syria, and Netanyahu’s message to Iran. Shoshani also delves into the future of India-Israel military ties, the situation of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh, and the prospects of a Gaza ceasefire.

Exclusive Interview: Kobbi Shoshani, Israel's Consul General To The Midwest India, Speaks To WION

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