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Paani to shed light on a pressing issue in Maharashtra

Mumbai, 06 October 2024 (UTN). Rajshri Entertainment, Purple Pebble Pictures and Kothare Vision Pvt Ltd have joined forces for the upcoming Marathi film Paani, which explores the important topic of water scarcity in Maharashtra. The film is set to release in cinemas on October 18. While the teaser of Paani has received widespread appreciation, the makers have now launched the trailer of the film. The trailer gives a glimpse into the struggle of a young man working tirelessly to find a solution to the issue of water shortage in Marathwada.  Paani is the story of Hanumant Kendre, who has come to be known as a 'jaldoot' in the state, and the audience will see Addinath M Kothare essaying the role on the big screen soon.   Besides Addinath, who has also directed the film, Paani will see the likes of Rucha Vaidya, Subodh Bhave, Rajit Kapur, Kishore Kadam, Nitin Dixit, Sachin Goswami, Mohanabai, Shripad Joshi, Vikas Pandurang Patil and others in prominent roles. Neha Barjatya, the late Rajjat Barjatya, Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Dr Madhu Chopra have produced the film, and Mahesh Kothare and Siddharth Chopra are the associate producers on the project. Through this film, the viewers will get to see the pathbreaking work of Hanumant Kendre in the drought-affected areas of Marathwada. While many families in his village migrated due to water issues, this young man decided to stay back and solve the problem. In the trailer, you can see that there is no water in the village and the youngster's prospects of marriage also suffer due to this.   Whether he succeeds in his quest of tackling the water crisis in his village and whether he ends up getting married or not are questions that will be answered in the film.  Addinath says, "It’s difficult to express my joy in words. I am thankful to everyone who has been part of my journey. It was challenging to wear multiple hats - writer, director and actor - for this project, but the process was rewarding. I am confident that the viewers will like the film. Through Paani, even if we succeed in creating awareness around water shortage in a few people, we'll be happy about it. We are also eternally thankful to Shankar Mahadevan who lent his voice to our film's title track, and to Aamir Khan Productions for their continued support." On her part, Priyanka, who is the founder and promoter of Purple Pebble Picture.   Adds, “Water scarcity is a pressing issue, and Paani highlights the need to act. I’m proud to be part of this meaningful project. At Purple Pebble Pictures, we always strive to support stories that matter, and I believe Paani will strike a chord with the audience. The whole team has worked so hard and I can’t wait for everyone to see the film and feel its impact.” Neha Barjatya of Rajshri Entertainment shares, "This is our first Marathi film and what better than Paani to make our first mark in this industry with. Teaming up with the likes of Purple Pebble Pictures and Kothare Vision has been a rewarding experience. The film's story, actors and other technicians are in perfect harmony and it feels satisfying to bring such a great and important project to the audience to mark our foray into the Marathi industry."   Mumbai-Reporter,(Hitesh Jain).

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Oct 6, 2024

I feel positive energy and a special vibe during these days: Monika Singh on Navratri

Mumbai, 06 October 2024 (UTN). Tulsi Dham Ke Laddu Gopal actress Monika Singh, is excited to celebrate Navratri this year. She, however, mentioned that while earlier she would fast and perform the various rituals on Navratri, due to health issues she is unable to perform them now. She said, “The essence of Navratri, celebrating the victory of good over evil—remains in my heart. Even if I’m not doing much at home, I still feel that positive energy and a special vibe during these days.” “Navratri used to be such a special time for me, and it still is in many ways.    Earlier, I used to cherish it so much I would fast, attend Garba nights, decorate my house with lights and flowers, and just immerse myself in all the festivities. But now, since I'm living with my younger sibling and because of some health issues, I'm unable to fast or keep up with all the rituals,” she added. Monika also stressed that she doesn’t put a Kalash during the festival now due to her busy work schedule. “For example, just like when we bring Ganpati home, if you keep a Kalash, you have to take care of it properly with devotion. But because of work, I can’t manage all that anymore. Still, I feel connected to the divine energy during this time through prayers,” Monika ended.   Mumbai-Reporter,(Hitesh Jain).

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Oct 6, 2024

Gulfam Khan Hussain: I Can Tell the Difference Between Fashion and a Fad

Mumbai, 06 October 2024 (UTN). Gehna: Zevar Ya Zanjeer actress Gulfam Khan Hussain emphasizes the importance of understanding the difference between fashion trends and fads. She says she loves to align herself with classic fashion, as it is always the best choice. “I used to be a fashion design professor. Coming from the fashion industry, I know how to distinguish between fashion and a fad. Classic fashion is always in style. Seasonal wear should be sustainable, and upcycling old garments and jewelry is the way to go,” she explains.   She adds, “All old fashions eventually come back. It's like a 20-year cycle, so it's just about upgrading old styles with new quirks. I love loose cargo pants. I might wear something that was fashionable a few years ago and carry it with flair.” When asked about her fashion inspiration, she says, “Zeenat Aman—if fashion were a woman, you’d know what face it would have.” And what about her go-to outfit? “A fuchsia pink co-ord suit is what I love. As for my most comfortable ensemble, it has to be a T-shirt and ribbed flare pants,” she adds.   Mumbai-Reporter,(Hitesh Jain).

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Oct 6, 2024

Only the Mentally Unstable Mistreat Animals; Genuine Care Shouldn't Be a Show

Mumbai, 06 October 2024 (UTN). On the occasion of World Animal Welfare Day, actress Ekta Tiwari passionately addressed the urgent need for compassion towards animals. Currently portraying the character of Flower in Dangal TV's Gudiya Rani, Tiwari spoke candidly about the disturbing trend of using pets as status symbols. “Only someone who is mentally and emotionally unstable can treat pets poorly or engage in heinous activities against them,” she stated, expressing her heartfelt concern for the countless creatures enduring such neglect.   Ekta criticized the phenomenon of showcasing pets on social media merely for show, questioning the legality and morality of keeping animals in cages as status symbols. “When I see viral videos of dogs and cats being paraded around, it makes me want to scroll past. If you truly care about animals, why make it a spectacle? Let your actions speak louder than your posts,” she said. Instead of flaunting their care for animals, she advocates for genuine acts of kindness and compassion, suggesting that a simple photo paired with a strong message can be far more impactful.   Drawing from her personal experiences, Ekta shared stories about her beloved pets, including her Pomeranian, Max, who lived to be 17, and her adopted dog, Princy. “Princy was full of energy and needed space to roam free. I couldn’t confine her, so I took her to my native place where she could thrive,” she recalled. Tiwari’s family has always been passionate about animal welfare, and her love for pets extends beyond mere ownership; it’s about creating a nurturing environment.   Mumbai-Reporter,(Hitesh Jain).

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Oct 6, 2024

Shivangi Verma: Marriage is mostly about sticking together, no matter what

Mumbai, 06 October 2024 (UTN). To give it what it takes, no matter what, that’s how you make marriages work, says actress Shivangi Verma. She adds that people are not willing to do that which is why marriages end in divorce. “People’s lifestyles have changed a lot. In the past, marriage was mostly about sticking together no matter what. But now, both men and women have their own careers and lives, so they don’t feel the need to stay in an unhappy marriage just to follow traditions,” she says.   She adds, “Technology has definitely played a role. With social media, people are more connected to the world and sometimes get tempted to compare their own relationships with others. This can create misunderstandings and make couples feel like their marriage isn’t as good as it should be. Also, online interactions can sometimes lead to issues of trust.” Some people even say women empowerment is one of the major reasons for high divorce cases in India.   But she does not agree, she says, adding, “I wouldn’t say women empowerment is a reason for divorce, but it has given women the courage to leave bad marriages. In the past, many women stayed in unhappy relationships because they had no choice. But now, women are more independent and can make decisions that are right for their own happiness and well-being.”She says that marriage still stands on love primarily. “Marriage is definitely about love, but it’s also about understanding and compromise.   If both people aren’t willing to put in the effort and make sacrifices, it becomes really hard to make it work. Sometimes people expect everything to be perfect without putting in the effort, and that can lead to divorce,” she says. She adds, “It takes two people to make a marriage, and it takes two people to make it fail. Both partners have to take responsibility for what went wrong. Blaming just one person is never fair because a relationship is always about both individuals.”   Mumbai-Reporter,(Hitesh Jain).

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Oct 6, 2024

As an actor, I'm constantly under scrutiny: Aadesh Chaudhary

Mumbai, 06 October 2024 (UTN). Being a public figure is not easy, especially when your whole life, be it personal or professional, is out there. And Sasural Simar Ka actor Aadesh Chaudhary agrees with it. He said, “To be honest, it can be quite daunting at times.” As an actor, I'm constantly under scrutiny, and every move I make is magnified. But I've learned to take it in stride and focus on my craft. I remind myself that I'm not just doing this for myself, but for the people who look up to me.   So, I try to stay positive and use the criticism to better myself,” he added. Aadesh emphasises that failure is an inevitable part of life, adding, “I've had my fair share of it. When I fail, I try to take a step back, assess what went wrong, and learn from it.” He, however, believes in accepting it and being open and honest about his experiences, and thus he is not scared of talking about his failures. “I think it helps to humanize me and shows that I'm not afraid to take risks,” he added.   Aadesh has seen his share of ups and downs in his career, and he is proud of what he has achieved so far. He said,"The most challenging time was when I was struggling to find my footing in the industry.” “I faced rejection after rejection, and there were times when I doubted my abilities. But I didn't give up. I kept working hard, honing my craft, and believing in myself. And eventually, things started falling into place,” he added. He is aware that it’s important to stay fit and maintain his physique to survive in the industry despite the busy schedule, and admitted, “It's definitely a challenge, but I prioritize my health and fitness.    I make sure to schedule my workouts and self-care activities, and I've learned to say no to non-essential commitments.” “I also try to eat healthy and get enough sleep. It's not always easy, but I know that if I don't take care of myself, I won't be able to perform at my best,” he added. He also mentioned that the best part about being an actor is the creative satisfaction he gets from playing different roles and telling various stories. He added, “The worst part is the constant pressure to maintain a public image and deal with the scrutiny that comes with it. Sometimes, it feels like I'm living in a fishbowl, and every move I make is being watched and judged.”   Mumbai-Reporter,(Hitesh Jain).

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Oct 6, 2024

Right clothes and makeup makes it easier for them to deliver a strong performance

Mumbai, 06 October 2024 (UTN). Rajat Verma, who plays Jay in Ravindra Gautam and Raghuvir Shekhawat’s Dahej Daasi, which is produced under their banner Do Dooni 4 Films, feels the outer appearance or the look of a character is very important for an actor. He believes it helps them build a connection with the audience. He said, “The appearance of a character plays a very important role in character building and helps the actor get into the skin of the character. When an actor is given the right clothes and makeup, it makes it easier for them to deliver a strong performance.” For the audience, the appearance of a character is also crucial because, when they start watching a show, they first notice how the characters look.    The audience doesn't yet know the story or the drama that will unfold, so they try to guess the setting of the show, like whether it's based in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, or somewhere else, just by looking at the characters' appearance. This helps the audience believe and connect with the story more easily,” he added. He, however, mentioned that the audience has started accepting a more natural appearance rather than a glamorous looking one. He said, “For example, if a hero came out of a bomb blast, their hair would still be perfectly styled. But now, things have changed, and the appearance can be adjusted to look more natural.” “The more natural the appearance, the more relatable it becomes for the audience, making it easier for them to believe in the story. So, a character’s appearance is very important for both the actor and the audience,” he added.    An actor's job goes beyond bringing a character to life, and Rajat shared that on an individual level, he contributes to it through dedication and hard work. “Whether it’s about the outer appearance or getting into the internal mindset of the character, I always try to match the mood of the scene. For example, if there is a scene where my character has to argue with someone, I try to stay in that mood to feel the intensity of the situation. Sometimes, I distance myself from the person I’m going to argue with in the scene to get into the right mindset,” he said. “On the other hand, if it's a romantic scene, I spend more time with the other person to build that connection. I also work on the physical appearance of the character. If the role demands certain physical traits, like muscles or a particular body type, I put in the effort to achieve that because it's my body, and I am the one playing the character. So, whatever changes are needed for the role, whether in appearance or internally, I have to work hard to make it happen,” he added.   Mumbai-Reporter,(Hitesh Jain).

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Oct 6, 2024

शमा सिकंदर ने थाईलैंड में छुट्टियों के दौरान अपने 'वैके मोड' को सक्रिय किया

मुंबई, 06 अक्टूबर 2024 (यूटीएन)। शमा सिकंदर भारतीय मनोरंजन उद्योग की एक ऐसी हस्ती हैं जो जीवन के विभिन्न क्षेत्रों को पूर्णता के साथ संतुलित करना जानती हैं। उसकी स्पष्टता उसकी सबसे बड़ी ताकत है और वह जानती है कि जरूरत पड़ने पर काम और कायाकल्प के बीच प्राथमिकताओं को कैसे संतुलित किया जाए। इन वर्षों में, अभिनेत्री ने एक अभिनेत्री और निर्माता के रूप में भारतीय मनोरंजन उद्योग में अपनी जगह बनाने के लिए बहुत मेहनत की है। हालाँकि, इसके अलावा, जो बात वास्तव में उनके और उनके दर्शकों के बीच एक सीधा संबंध स्थापित करती है।   वह यह है कि वह एक मानसिक स्वास्थ्य समर्थक भी हैं जो केवल सकारात्मकता फैलाने में विश्वास करती हैं। खैर, सकारात्मकता के बारे में बात करते हुए, उनका सौंदर्यपूर्ण इंस्टाग्राम फ़ीड सकारात्मकता का सटीक स्रोत है जो किसी को अपने दिन को रोशन करने की आवश्यकता है। जब भी उसे अपने व्यस्त कार्य कार्यक्रम की हलचल से दूर समय मिलता है, तो वह भटकने की इच्छा को शांत करने के लिए समय निकालती है और हमें हमेशा तस्वीरें पसंद आती हैं। इस बार, शमा और उनके प्रिय पति जेम्स मिलिरॉन दोनों ने थाईलैंड को एक आदर्श छुट्टी के लिए उत्कृष्ट पलायन स्थल के रूप में चुना और हम उनके सोशल मीडिया हैंडल पर इस यात्रा के दौरान उनके सभी अविश्वसनीय अनुभवों की एक झलक पा सकते हैं।   प्रकृति की सुंदरता का आनंद लेने और एक-दूसरे की रोमांटिक, दिव्य कंपनी में खो जाने से लेकर 'डेट स्पेशल' लाल बैकलेस आउटफिट में सभी मसालेदार, लाल गर्म दिखने तक, हम हर उस चीज से चकित हैं जो हमें टिनसेल टाउन के इस 'वंडर कपल' से देखने को मिलती है। कोई आश्चर्य नहीं कि वे वास्तविक रूप से 'युगल लक्ष्य' हैं और जिस तरह से वे जीवन और इसकी प्राथमिकताओं को संतुलित करते हैं, वह वास्तव में सीखने के योग्य है। पहाड़ों की सुंदरता, सबसे अधिक और अंतहीन आकाश शमा को असीमित खुशी देता है और ठीक है, उनके पति जेम्स मिलिरॉन का जन्मदिन चियांग माई थाईलैंड में इस रमणीय समय का आनंद लेने के लिए एक 'चेरी ऑन टॉप' कारक था। वायरल तस्वीरों को यहां देखें यदि आपने उन्हें पहले नहीं देखा है।     मुंबई-रिपोर्टर,(हितेश जैन)।

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Oct 6, 2024

Padmashri Geeta Chandran’s 50-Year Journey in Bharatanatyam Unfolds at NCPA

Mumbai, 06 October 2024 (UTN). On October 6th, 2024, the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) will witness an exceptional performance by the celebrated Bharatnatyam exponent, Padmashri Geeta Chandran. Titled Pravahati, this performance marks a significant milestone—Chandran’s 50-year journey in the world of Indian Classical Dance. Founder of Natya Vriksha, a cultural organisation she established in 1991, Chandran has spent decades exploring the depths of Bharatnatyam, both as a dancer and as a teacher. Her upcoming performance, however, promises to offer a fresh perspective on this ancient art form. In her upcoming show, Chandran explores the dynamic flow of Bharatnatyam. “Pravahati explores time and space both as non-stagnant, but which are forward propelling of both imagination and execution,” she states.    The ace danseuse emphasises that dance, much like life, should not remain confined to tradition but must evolve and reinterpret itself through the temperament of the artist. Her ability to craft contemporary expressions through classical techniques is a hallmark of her career, and Pravahati is a testament to this. The choreography for Pravahati unfolds through four evocative pieces: a complex Mallari tribute to Shiva, Kalidas' Varsha Ritu from Ritusamhara, Vahati, which showcases how tradition itself is a flowing stream of felt experiences, and it concludes with a celebratory Tillana. It opens with Mallari, a rhythmic and complex tribute to Lord Shiva. Rooted in temple traditions of Southern India, this piece is dedicated to Nataraja, the cosmic dancer of Chidambaram. The music heightens the visual experience of group dynamics and the intricate Bharatnatyam adavus.   From the divine, the performance shifts to Nature with Kalidas’ Varsha Ritu from Ritusamhara. This piece captures the monsoon season in all its beauty and fury—from gentle drizzles greeted by dancing peacocks to torrential downpours that devastate the land. Through four stanzas of poetry, the piece also explores the emotional tumult of lovers, adding layers of human experience to the natural cycle. The third piece, Vahati, exemplifies Chandran’s deep connection with the dance tradition while offering her reinterpretation. Drawing from the classic Krishna Nee Begane Baaro, she re-imagines the call to Krishna through three distinct emotional lenses: the tender plea of a mother (Yashoda), the playful desire of a gopi, and the pure devotion of a devotee. It is in this piece that Chandran’s philosophy—that Bharatanatyam is an evolving tradition—shines most clearly. The performance culminates in a celebratory Tillana, a fast-paced, joyful dance that signifies the fulfillment of the artistic journey.    Reflecting on her 50-year journey, Chandran shares, “As I approach the personal milestone of completing five decades of dancing since my arangetram in October 1974, I can only pay the richest tribute to my stalwart Gurus who so freely shared this invaluable art with me, but also gave me the freedom to question the tradition constantly, and reinterpret it for myself.” She further adds, “Every day of my life, Bharatanatyam energises me. It pushes me to explore its vast potential through performing, teaching, conducting, collaborating, and more.” For Chandran, dance is not just an art form—it is a medium through which she engages with society, expresses abstract notions, and motivates the youth. Through her leadership at Natya Vriksha, she has inspired generations of students, forging deep connections between tradition and modernity. As a guru, Chandran believes Indian Classical Dance is thriving globally, with thousands of teachers and students.    However, she emphasises the need for clearer standards to distinguish between hobby-learners and lifelong practitioners for the dance form to shine brighter. “Literally thousands of Gurus and Acharyas are teaching Indian Classical Dance around the world with tons of students learning. So, popularity is not the problem. What we need is stricter standards in the classical dance domain; clear distinctions between dance learned as a hobby and as a lifetime passion,” she explains. Furthermore, she also challenges the reliance on Government support, advocating for greater corporate and societal involvement to ensure the art form's vibrant future. Pravahati is not just a celebration of Chandran’s incredible journey, but also a tribute to the boundless possibilities of Bharatanatyam. With her unparalleled expertise, profound passion, and constant innovation, Chandran invites audiences to witness the timeless flow of dance—one that transcends the barriers of time, tradition, and space.   Mumbai-Reporter,(Hitesh Jain).

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Oct 6, 2024

श्री धार्मिक लीला कमेटी:भगवान राम पहुंचे जनकपुरी

नई दिल्ली, 06 अक्टूबर 2024 (यूटीएन)। श्री धार्मिक लीला कमेटी की ओर से माधवदास पार्क में आयोजित रामलीला में ऋषि विश्वामित्र के आश्रम में महाराज जनक के दूत जानकी के स्वयंवर में पधारने का निमंत्रण लेकर आने लेकर माता गौरी की पूजा करने तक मंचन हुआ। कमेटी के महासचिव धीरजधर गुप्ता, सचिव प्रदीप शरण व प्रवक्ता रवि जैन ने बताया कि विश्वामित्र के भगवान राम एवं लक्ष्मण के साथ जनकपुरी के लिए प्रस्थान करनेे, जनकपुरी पहुंचने पर स्थानीय निवासियों ने भगवान राम के दर्शन कर उनका भव्य स्वागत करने, जानकी का राजमहल में पहुंचने। भगवान शंकर के धनुष को दूसरी जगह रखने, जनक राज के इस धनुष का उठाने वालेे स जानकी का विवाह करने की घोषणा करने, जानकी का माता की आज्ञा से पुष्प वाटिका में गौरी पूजन करने, भगवान राम एवं लक्ष्मण के पुष्प लेने के लिए वाटिका में पहुंचने व भगवान राम एवं जानकी ने एक दूसरे का देखने, जानकी ने मां गौरी से भगवान राम को पति के रूप में प्राप्त करने के आग्रह का मंचन हुआ। विशेष संवाददाता, (प्रदीप जैन) |

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Oct 6, 2024