ENTERTAINMENT UNLIMITED

Asianet Communications Ltd appoints John Brittas as Business Head

2011-05-05T13:11:00.000+04:00

Asianet Communications Ltd (ACL) has appointed senior journalist and icon of modern visual media, John Brittas as Business Head. Before joining ACL, Brittas was the Managing Director and Editor of CPM owned Kairali TV. His programmes like Cross Fire aired on Kairali TV made him a household name in Kerala.

ACL runs two entertainment channels –Asianet and Asianet Plus.

The eventful career of John Brittas, who hailed from a small village of Kannur, commenced when he joined ‘Deshabhimani’ after his bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Trissur, Kerala Verma College. Later he grabbed his Masters from the same college being the topper. At the age of 22 he went to Delhi and joined JNU for M.Phil and later Ph.D. ‘Deshabhimani’ was considerate enough to transfer him to Delhi as its bureau chief. There, even before joining his office, he got an assignment to escort the then Chief Minister of Kerala to Punjab for a discussion with the ‘Akalis’, a radical group beseeching a separate state. He witnessed many incidents at the capital that designed India’s future both at the home front and in the international arena. Brittas has done first-hand reporting for the general elections between 1981 and 1999. He also covered the general election in Nepal soon after the tragic death of King Birendra. He was physically present in Ayodhya during the Babri Masjid demolition. Brittas became the first journalist from India to reach Baghdad during the Iraq war. He is the youngest correspondent to get the Central Hall pass in the Parliament.

Ulka Gupta returns as Kaali in Jhansi Ki Rani

2011-05-04T19:21:00.000+04:00

Young Ulka Gupta, who wowed millions of viewers across the country with her impressive portrayal of the great Rani Laxmibai in Zee TV’s Jhansi ki Rani, is back in the show. This time as Kaali, the intense, spirited daughter of a tribal called Bandhu who had supported the Rani in her battle against the queen of Orchha. The character of Kaali will soon emerge as the new face of India’s struggle for Independence - Kraanti Ka Naya Chehra. Ignited with a strong passion and fervor for her motherland, she will be seen assisting Rani Laxmibai in her war against the British. One look at the pictures of Kaali and you know that Ulka is all set to play a feisty firebrand who’s ready for the kill!

Speaking of her new assignment on the very show that made her a household name, Ulka said, "It's great to be back on the sets of Jhansi Ki Rani. The crew, the cast members, they're all extremely affectionate since we have such wonderful memories to choose from. I'm all excited to be playing Kaali as she the same fire within her, the same intensity and passion for freedom as the Rani"

Speaking on the introduction of Ulka as Kaali, Sukesh Motwani, Head- Fiction Programming, said, "Ulka has been the face of Jhansi Ki Rani ever since we launched the show. If the audience had had their way, they'd never have let the Rani grow up. Naturally, we were keen to bring Ulka back as the show enters its most exciting climax. And a mere flashback wouldn't have sufficed. As Kaali, Ulka will embody the new face of India's struggle for Independence and work hand-in-hand with the Rani in her battle against the British."

To catch Ulka Gupta return to the small screen as Kaali, stay tuned to Jhansi Ki Rani at 8pm Sunday-Thursday on Zee TV.

The Royal Wedding on Discovery Channel

2011-04-25T13:57:00.001+04:00

Date and Time: April 25, 26, 27 and 28 at 20.10.

To celebrate the upcoming royal wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton, The Discovery Channel exclusively on OSN has a brilliant bouquet of special documentaries dedicated to this highly anticipated event.

This exclusive season, dubbed ‘Royal Wedding Week’, will be broadcast on Discovery Channel (channel 80) exclusively on OSN from April 25 to April 29, with a series of original programmes on the nuptials and fanfare that surrounds it.

Each day that week will feature a new programme, starting on Monday, April 25 with the intriguing documentary, ‘Royally Obsessed’. For most royal fans, collecting a piece or two of memorabilia to mark a royal event is enough. But for others, their collecting has become an obsession. ‘Royally Obsessed’ introduces viewers to the most fanatical royal collectors in the world through personal tours of their royal relic-crammed homes and seeks to understand their royal obsession.

With William officially off the market, attention now turns to Prince Harry who will undoubtedly take over the reigns as the world's most eligible bachelor. Discovery Channel lifts the lid the following day on the boy Princess Diana called ‘the naughty one’ in the riveting documentary, ‘Wild About Prince Harry’. The programme tracks Prince Harry's journey from young child to war hero, charity campaigner and royal pin-up through rare photos and footage, and interviews with friends and family.

The celebrations shift up a gear on Wednesday, April 27 with the fascinating documentary ‘30 Days That Rocked The Royals’. This in-depth piece marks the most significant 30 days between the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer and their son's. It highlights all the triumphs and tragedies in the Royal Family over the past three decades, from weddings and babies to funerals and scandals. This is a snapshot of Britain's most famous family as you've never seen it before.

Finally, on Friday April 29, Discovery Channel brings all the excitement surrounding the wedding itself to viewers with the documentary, ‘The Biggest Day’ which takes an exclusive behind the scenes look at how key players prepared for the wedding day, the pressure they were under and the challenges they faced.

‘Royal Wedding Week’ is a fantastic celebration of pomp and pageantry, and of true love and fairy tale weddings from April 25 - 29 on Discovery Channel (channel 80) exclusively on OSN.

Game of Thrones airs on OSN FIRST and OSN FIRST HD

2011-03-24T18:09:00.001+04:00

‘Game of Thrones’, the upcoming epic fantasy TV series will air on April 20 at 22.00 (UAE) exclusively on OSN FIRST and OSN FIRST HD screens only days after the US premiere. Based on the series of best-selling novels - A Song of Ice and Fire - by George RR Martin, the ten part epic looks set to redefine the fantasy genre. Following kings and queens, knights and renegades, liars and noblemen as they vie for power... all will play the Game Of Thrones.
Already being dubbed TV event of the year and pitched as ‘the Sopranos with swords’, the series has caused major excitement for TV fans around the world. George RR Martin's epic fantasy gets the HBO treatment, which means his dense tale of warring kingdoms, sexy and supernatural hijinks, and neck-snapping plot twists can sprawl with the grandeur it requires.
Game Of Thrones is an expansive saga set in the Seven Kingdoms of the mythical continent Westeros and follows several noble families as they vie to rule the land. Reminiscent of Medieval Europe, the series is set in 298-99 AL (After Landing).
The series opens with King Richard Baratheon (BAFTA award nominee Mark Addy, The Full Monty, A Knight’s Tale), who is married to Cersei Lannister (Lena Headey, 300) of the wealthy and corrupt House of Lannister, asking Eddard ‘Ned’ Stark (Sean Bean, Red Riding, The Lord of the Rings) to become his chief advisor after the questionable death of his right-hand man.
In the east, there is a threat to the throne by the exiled teenage Princess Daenerys (Emilia Clarke, Doctors) and her brother Viserys (Harry Lloyd, Doctor Who), whose family ruled the Kingdoms for many years before their bloody deaths.
At the edge of the Kingdoms, dangerous powers are stirring north of The Wall, an ancient barrier of ice stretching 300 miles and standing 700 feet tall. Ned’s bastard son Jon Snow (Kit Harington, Greys Inbetween) joins the brotherhood of the Night’s Watch, a group sworn to protect the Kingdoms from the perils that lurk beyond the freezing barricade.
Author and executive producer George RR Martin commented: “Game Of Thrones is an epic fantasy, with a conflict for power at its core. But it’s more than just politics; there are questions of loyalty, lust, sexual obsession, desire, defiance, history. In this world, when you play the game of thrones, you win or you die. Honour and mercy have no place in the game of thrones.”
The series is a true spectacle, an engrossing, ground-breaking fable that will bring a new level of realism to the fantasy genre that will surprise and captivate audiences. Game Of Thrones is a true HBO original, premiering exclusively on OSN FIRST and OSN FIRST HD every Wednesday at 22.00 UAE from April 20.

Asianet Television Awards 2011 on Asianet

2011-03-23T22:32:00.000+04:00

Date: April 20, 2011

Time: 6.30pm-11pm (IST)

Asianet Television Awards 2011 were distributed at a glittering function was held recently at the Chandrasekharan Nair Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram. The show was witnessed by 25,000 strong crowd. Several prominent persons from the film industry and socio-cultural spheres were present on the occasion.

Asianet Managing Director K Madhavan, Suresh Gopi, Devan, Suresh Krishna, Ajmal, Rajith Menon, Kalpana, Suchithra, Sarayu, Lakshana, Sonia, Harsha, Sajan Surya, Prem Kumar, Rajasenan, Sree Movies Unnithan, Dr S Janardhanan were some of the personalities present at the function.

‘Harichandanam’ won the award for the best serial, which was accepted by its producer Baiju Devaraj. Sujith Sundar won the award for the best director for the serial ‘Autograph.’ Arun Ghosh won the best actor award for his role in ‘Parijatham’ and Rasana for the best female actress for the film ‘Parijatham.’ Actor Sarath Das and Actress Praveena was on hand to collect the popular award for her outstanding performance in various serials.
Others who won awards include Baiju Devaraj (Ever Green Hit Serial - Manasaputhri), TS Raju (best character artiste - male), Sona Nair (best character artiste-female), Kishore and Aiswarya (best Negative Character), Pradeep Prabhakar (best actor in a comic role). Karthiketan (Popular Serial - Devi Mahathmyam), Rajeev Alunkal (lyricist), Aji Saras (music director), Madhu Balakrishnan (playback singer- male), Gayathri (playback singer-female), Jeevan and Sandra (child artistes), Anil Bass (Script Writer), Pushpan (cameraman), Joby Pannabra (editor), Sreejith (Sound Recordist) , debut artistes Pradeep and Shalin and Ravi Vallathol and Sujitha (Special Jury awards).

Other cine Stars such as Sreekala, Asha Sarath, Archana, Sujatha Naidu, Richa Panai, mahalakshmi, Sini, Yadhu Krishnan, Praveena, Kripa and other comedy artistes from TV/ Film industry, Playback Singers in the lines of Madhu Balakrishnan, Gayathri, Ramesh Babu, Alka, Rehman entertained the viewers.

Geeta Ma’s Maa makes an appearance on DID Doubles

2011-03-17T14:22:00.001+04:00

Reveals that Geeta always wanted to be an air hostess and a model before she entered the world of dance

Master Geeta Kapur, who is Maa for practically everybody on the sets of DID Doubles, was overjoyed when at the recent shoot, her own mother paid her a surprise visit! What made it particularly interesting for everyone else on the sets was that Sr. Mrs. Kapur shared plenty of trivia about daughter dearest Geeta that no one really knew about!

Apparently, Mrs. Kapur revealed, “Geeta was an early bird when it came to dancing. She started moving gracefully at the age of 3….. we used to live in this really tiny house with so many people hovering in and around… but Geeta would use the bed to practise her steps and would keep dancing all day long!”

Geeta’s mother was amused when the cast and crew of the show affectionately called her ‘Badi Maa’ since her daughter is the original ‘Maa’ on the sets. She further revealed, “Do any of you guys know that Geeta first wanted to be an air hostess? And that she dabbled in modeling before she joined Farah as a background dancer?” Mithun Da was tickled pink on finding out Geeta’s little secrets and couldn’t help but rib her mercilessly over them.

Geeta, overwhelmed by all the love surrounding her, told the audience, “I am extremely fortunate to have the woman, on whose feet I would perch my toes and dance holding her hands, here with me today. My mother is the most important person in my life. There’s no one who understands me better than she does. And I couldn’t have asked for more support from her in every endeavor I have ever taken up!”

Watch the mother-daughter bond beautifully on DID Doubles at 8:00PM on March 19 on Zee TV.

Zee TV’s fun filled ‘HOLI-DAY’ !!!

2011-03-16T21:27:00.000+04:00

Dev Radhika

Zee TV’s ‘ Saanwre ke Rang Racchi Chhoti Bahu’ will present a Holi Special Event on March 21 from 7.30pm onwards.

Going by the current track, Dev (Avinash Sachdev) is now falling in love with Radhika (Rubina Dilaik), but he is not able to voice his feelings for Radhika. Therefore he plans a big Holi celebration at the Raj Purohit's, where many people are called, including Radhika. The basic plan is to propose to Radhika amidst the celebration of colours.

To build the necessary ambience, the leads of Zee shows like Archana (Ankita Lokhande), Manav (Sushant Singh Rajput), Mona (Sara Khan), Anukalp (Nishant Malkani), Rudra (Iqbal Khan), Gauri (Binny Sharma), Laxmi (Veebha Anand), Suraj (Rohit Purohit), Geeta (Sargun Mehta), Rohan (Nikhil Chaddha), Karan (Karan Grover), Abha (Suhasi Dhami) will be present to grace the event.

Avinash and Rubina as Dev and Radhika

"Apart from these actors, there would be some special performances by celebrities too. Sambhavna Seth will be seen performing on the dance number Dilwalon ke Dil Ka Karrar Lutne and Hoth Rasile mere Hoth Rasile. Along with her there will be Kashmera Shah displaying her sizzling dance moves on UP wala thumka Lagao… along with the Dabangg man Sonu Sood. Bhojpuri actor, Manoj Tiwari will also be dancing to a popular song along with Sambhavna and Kashmera. We’ll also have a ‘Hasya Kavi Sanmelan’ to tickle the audience’s funny bone as popular comedians – Ehsaan Qureshi, Sunil Pal, Moses and Sugandha Mishra perform one hilarious act after another,” adds a source from Zee TV.

Kashmera Shah with Sonu Sood

"Yes, Chhoti Bahu is celebrating a grand Holi special, and it will be one very exciting episode for the audience as they will get to see many performances by various celebrities and also see some romantic moments between Dev and Radhika," said Rubina Dilaik, the lead of the show.

The onscreen couple of Geet Hui Sabse Parayi, Drashti Dhami and Gurmeet Choudhary and the off screen pair of Jay Bhanushali and Mahhi Vij have been also roped in to sizzle in the Holi Special episode. Geet and Maan will be seen performing on 'Tip Tip Barsa Pani' while Jay and Mahhi will burn the dance floor on the number 'Zor Ka Jhatka Hayee Zoro Se Laga'". When contacted, Jay Bhanushali said, "It was great to perform with Mahhi. The location where we shot was also awesome as it was surrounded by a lake on all the four sides".

Sonu Sood and Manoj Tiwari with Sambhavna Seth

The Dancing DID superstar’s Dharmesh and Kishore were especially called in to re-create the UV (ultra violet) act which had shot them to fame in the earlier season of DID. Dharmesh confirmed the buzz saying, "Yes, I performed for Chhoti Bahu Holi Special episode. We did a Sheshnaag act which I had done in DID earlier on the number 'Govind Bolo Hari Gopal Bolo'; ultra violet lights were used to give the act its superior special effects.”

With so many big stars joining the Chhoti Bahu brigade, the Holi episode is indeed going to be something to watch out for..…

Don’t forget to tune in to the Chhoti Bahu special Holi event on March 21 from 7:30PM onwards..

Chhoti Si Zindagi : A tender tale of two little girls in a big, bad world!

2011-03-16T20:44:00.000+04:00

Isha and Ira in Chhoti Si Zindagi

There's a heart warming new show on Zee TV's horizon that has got the industry talking....this J.D. Majethia production, tentatively titled Chhoti Si Zindagi, is the sensitive story of two young children who must find their own in a world where they have no one they can call their own!

The new show follows the lives of these two kids, Isha and Ira, until destiny packs in a nasty blow, changing their life forever...requiring them to be strong, spirited and independent in order to survive! Despite trying circumstances, they share a very close bond and always look out for each other.

While the role of Isha will be played by Richa Mukherjee who played Laali’s younger sister Rekha in Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo, Ira is played by Shruti Bhist, an immensely adorable fresh face on the television circuit. Playing the father fraught with severe adversity, yet putting on a smiling face for his girls is the well-recognized film and television actor Pavan Malhotra. Zee TV and Hats Off Production are currently tight-lipped about the remaining cast but the buzz has it that the show has some prominent names making a comeback after a prolonged hiatus.

Pavan Malhotra in Chhoti Si Zindagi

Speaking about his role in the show, Pavan said, “It’s always exciting to play roles with layers, rather than characters that are open and shut cases of ‘good’ or ‘bad’. My character Shyam has a very interesting graph in the show – at different points of time, the audience will feel very differently about him. To be able to play such a part convincingly is a challenge and I am looking forward to it!”

The show has been extensively shot in picture-perfect locales of Pahelgaum and Kasauli. Watch this space for more on this exciting show!

Mummy’s Surprise for Geeta

2011-03-16T20:35:00.000+04:00

‘Geeta Ki Gang’ members from seasons 1 & 2 of Dance India Dance  pay tribute to Geeta Ma on the Holi special episode

This week on DID Doubles, be prepared to catch Master Geeta Kapur with her jaw wide open … completely caught off-guard by one surprise hurled her way after another. To begin with, Mithun Da sneaked in her mother on to the sets of the show in a bid to delight her. As if that was not enough, Geeta’s Ma had a surprise in store for her too.

When Senior Kapur went up on stage and said “This one’s for you, darling!”, Geeta had no idea what was coming her way. The ace choreographer was left spellbound on seeing some of her most beloved contestants from the previous 2 seasons of DID– Dharmesh, Siddhesh, Kishore, Binny and Amrita perform an act for her on the Holi special episode of DID Doubles. Geeta could not have asked for better gifts than reuniting with her kids after a long hiatus. Geeta was misty eyed from the moment she recognised Dharmesh, who was wearing a mask, by his trademark style of dancing.

Binny and Amrita said, “For this act, we chose to dance to those particular songs that we know Ma is personally fond of!” Geeta was on Cloud Nine to meet her old contestants and had no words could describe her feelings. She said, “I am mostly in touch with Dharmesh but since Binny has become Zee ki star and Siddesh has become a dancing sensation, I hardly get to see them. I am really happy to meet Amrita and Kishore, who have carved a niche for themselves in their chosen sphere.’

Dada just said, “Geeta this the biggest tribute the kids can ever pay to a Mentor.”

Don’t miss the fun on the Holi special episode of DID Doubles Saturday, March 19 at 8:00PM only on Zee TV.

Zahida Parveen bids adieu to Yahaan Main Ghar Ghar Kheli

2011-03-15T22:52:00.001+04:00

The character of Yasho Masi ends naturally

Zahida Parveen, who essayed the role of the evil Yasho Masi in Zee TV’s leading primetime show, Yahaan Main Ghar Ghar Kheli is actually a wonderful person in real life. With Yasho Masi being thrown out of Swarn Bhavan, her track in the show comes to a natural end. Yasho Masi was infamous for plotting and scheming — be it trying to kill Karan or her own sister Pratibha or making life difficult for Abha. In the end, the proverbial good prevailed over evil and Yasho Masi was ousted from Swarn Bhavan.

Yasho Masi who was one of the most hated characters on Indian television is actually loved by one and all on the sets. On screen, there were tears of victory but off screen the drama had shifted gears and everybody lamented Zahidaji’s exit from the show. Karan Grover said, “She was a lively person and very helpful”. Suhasi Dhami, who could not stand Yasho Masi in the show, used to spent a lot of time in real life chatting and bonding with Zahidaji on sets.

Zahidaji got a huge chocolate cake and treated the unit with an elaborate lunch on her last day of shoot. Getting emotional, she thanked everybody for being supportive and caring at the same time expressed her longing to return to the show. Will she turn over a new leaf and return in the serial or will she strike back as a true blue villain till slain, is not yet known. All we know is — Zahidaji will be missed on the sets!

Tune in to Yahaan Main Ghar Ghar Kheli every Sunday to Thursday 8.30PM (UAE Time) only on Zee TV.

Sara Khan asked to gain weight and Nishant Malkani to reduce for their big night

2011-03-07T22:39:00.000+04:00

What do you think of Sara Khan and Nishant Malkani as a couple? Made for each other? or a little oddly matched? Well, whatever your take is, here's what the makers of Ram Milaayi Jodi who cast the two actors together seem to be thinking. After scrutinising reels of footage over the last couple of weeks, the creative team behind the show has reached a consensus that the two look absolutely adorable together, except for one little flaw that they would like to see corrected immediately!

The producer of the show Rajita Sharma is apparently of the opinion that Sara with her ‘size zero’ obsession has begun to look like a delicate China doll infront of Nishant who is constantly on a ‘get bigger and beefier’ trip. In terms of sheer physicality required for their roles, Nishant who plays a shy and sweet Gujarati chhora Anukalp should ideally be a lean and lanky guy rather than a strapping hunk. And Sara who plays Mona, the Punjabi phataka, ought to look a little more hatti-katti and filled out rather than the porcelain delicacy she currently is!

And given that the track is about to showcase the two of them sharing intimate moments on their ‘big night’ in the coming week, their focus on their hysicality is heightened. So while sara's been asked to dig into extra carbs, Nishant has been asked to go easy on his high protein-high carbs diet to look a little leaner!

When contacted, Sara said, "The idea is to get us to look like an ideal couple for the big night and both Nishant and I are game for whatever it takes to make the scene look absolutely perfect!"

Stay tuned to Ram Milaayi Jodi at 9.30pm every Sunday to Wednesday on Zee TV. The romance is just about to brew!

Megha Gupta dons the role of Dr Arundhati in YMGGK on Zee TV

2011-03-07T22:28:00.000+04:00

New Entry in Yahaan Main Ghar Ghar Kheli sets temperature rising

One look at model turned television actress Megha Gupta can make many a men go weak in the knees. With Megha’s entry as Dr. Arundhati in Yahaan Main Ghar Ghar Kheli (YMGGK), the show is taking interesting turns. She plays an integral role and is instrumental in getting Karan back to normalcy from coma. Viewers are aware of the fact that Karan is in a state of coma lying unattended in a hospital as none of his family members are aware of the fact that he is still alive. When a helpless Karan has nobody to turn to and the hospital authorities are refusing to bear the medical expenses, Dr. Arundhati steps in and takes the onus of Karan’s recovery.

Megha Gupta is known for playing pivotal roles in serials like Kkavyanjali, Kumkum, Mamta, CID and as the lead actress in Rajshree Production’s Main Teri Parchhain Hoon. Megha said, “It’s an interesting character and I readily accepted the offer. I am sure everyone will like the loving and caring Dr. Arundhati who sacrifices her life for the sake of her patients.”

This benevolent doctor becomes a very important part of Karan’s life. What will happen to Karan and Abha relationship, will Karan come back to Abha? Will Abha and Dr. Arundhati be pitted against each other or will they be oblivious to the other’s presence? Will Karan fall for the beautiful Doctor who has given a fresh breath to his life….?

Watch the drama unfold on Yahaan Main Ghar Ghar Kheli every Sunday to Thursday at 8.30pm on Zee TV.

Women’s Day quotes from Zee TV's popular actresses

2011-03-07T22:19:00.000+04:00

Urvashi Dholakia (Malini Yadav of Apno Ke Liye Geeta Ka Dharmyudh)

I’m proud to be a woman. Every day is a Women’s Day in my life. I don’t need a special day to celebrate it. But I would like to say that in today’s world, it’s very important for her to be financially independent. Success hasn’t come easily to me. I have toiled hard to find a foothold in the entertainment industry. Personally, I feel that you come in the world alone and you go from the world alone. You have one life. Live it to the fullest. I have lived my life on my own terms and conditions and I’m very proud of whatever I have achieved today.

Pragati Mehra (Maheshwari of Chhoti Bahu)

Ideally speaking, I have a disconnect with ONLY one day marked for women as ‘Women’s Day’. Because in today’s day and age, women are at par with men in all spheres of life and across all strata’s of the society. At times I feel it’s an added advantage that above all women are intrinsically a nurturer too which men have to develop. So if there isn’t a ‘Men’s Day’, there should not be a women’s day either…all days are ours for keeps!!! But having said that if by announcing a day we women are showered with special privileges its welcome and I enjoy that!! But on a larger scale , as a society if we can see the change that women are respected in real sense of the word, given their due, equal platform without prejudice and contempt …that’s a celebration…that’s a real WOMEN’S Day!!! On a happy note, I do see things moving in that direction.

Rubina Dilaik (Radhika of Chhoti Bahu)

The most significant woman in my life is my mother. It’s very overwhelming to see the gleam in my mother’s eyes whenever she talks about my achievements. Success hasn’t come easily to me. I have given my sweat and blood to enhance my performance as an actress. For me success is not a stage, it’s a process. Being a woman I feel financial empowerment is a must. It not only boosts your confidence but also gives one clear vision to choose options in their lives. I feel very proud about the fact that at such an young age, I’m able to shoulder the responsibilities of my family along with my father. My heartfelt gratitude to everyone because of whom I’ve achieved success and have seen some really favorable times in my life. On Women’s Day, I take this opportunity to thank everyone!

Vandana Joshi (Nandini of Dil Se Diya Vachan)

I strongly feel that we don’t need just one particular day to celebrate the joys of being a woman. But I have to say that I feel extremely proud to be a woman. I’m very happy about the fact that I’m financially empowered and I’m not dependent on anyone for anything. Success hasn’t come to me easily. I have slogged hard for it and today I feel that my hard work has paid off! There are so many opportunities in front of me and I can do whatever I want. I feel struggle is very important in one’s life. Its only after you have toiled hard that you enjoy the fruits of success. I have earned everything on my own. My parents were averse to the idea of me dancing when I participated in DID. They were also not in favor of me pursuing acting when I got Dil Se Diya Vachan. But the fact that I have proved myself has made them change their perspectives. Today my family supports me in everything that I do and I’m glad of the choices that I made in life. On woman’s Day, I would like to tell all the women – go and live your dreams!

Jayshree T (Jayshree Karmarkar of Dil Se Diya Vachan)

Earlier women were only considered to be a daughter, sister, wife and mother. Today, times have changed and women are at par with men in every sphere. Women are PM’s, President’s, Actors, Sports personalities, CEO’s, Train drivers, Auto rickshaw drivers, you name it and you have women as achievers in every field. It’s a great thing that women have become so dynamic and go-getters in life. But all said and done, they must not forget that are sisters, mothers, wives and daughter as well and they should have the ability to juggle both their personal as well as professional lives with élan. This is my message to all the women on Women’s Day.

Zarina Wahab

Women empowerment has come a long way from the days when the purdah system was prevalent in society. Television shows are women centric and a lot of them are focusing on current malpractices in the society with the aim of educating women helping them stand for their rights and fight for a cause. There is trend of positivity as far as women liberation or empowerment is concerned. Awareness is the biggest agent of change and awareness in the right direction can help achieve the desired result.

Sargun Mehta (Geeta of Apno Ke Liye Geeta Ka Dharmyudh)

A woman is the epitome of tenderness, care and wisdom. On this Women's Day, I would like to wish every woman a very Happy Women’s Day. My message to everyone is — Have a wonderful time out with your gal pals, and enjoy the company of your women friends. And while you do so, spare a thought for unfortunate women, who live in tyrannical societies where men override...

Nivedita Tiwary (Runjhun of Bhagonwaali)

Charles Malik said, “The fastest way to change society is to mobilise the women of the world." So very true! If I have my way then I would like to celebrate the spirit of womanhood by spending the day with myself doing things I love to do – read books all day long, step out for a warm cup of coffee and then snuggle up early in bed and sleep like a baby. Spending a day alone will help me introspect and give me a sense of freedom to do my own thing.

Rita Bhaduri (Naani of Bhangonwaali)

When I look back and reflect on the change in women’s liberation in the last few decades, I find there has been a remarkable change. A lot has been written about the new face Indian woman and her new found spirit of womanhood but I am still concerned about the hoards of homemakers around the country who work relentlessly for the betterment of her family but at the end of the day retire without an iota of appreciation in her kitty. Housewives across the globe should be respected. Men should either cook one meal or take the homemaker out on a date or do anything that will make the woman of the house feel special.

Ankita Lokhande (Archana of Pavitra Rishta)

Ofcourse it is a really nice thing that we have Women’s Day; one day when you can unashamedly revel in every aspect of your femininity! And what makes better is that on this day, no one will dare disagree with you either! This year I am sure that I will be celebrating in some way or another especially since I know that Sushant will plan something (he loves giving me surprises!)

Savita Prabhune (Sulochana of Pavitra Rishta)

Women’s day marks a celebration of the emancipation of women from the bondage of social evils. Especially given the social background of women’s rights in our country, I feel proud to be a part of this graceful gender which though underestimated at times, has contributed in a huge way to our society. Ofcourse this doesn’t mean that the day has to be all serious and somber. I will take some time out to tell my closest.

Usha Nadkarni (Savita tai of Pavitra Rishta)

I have not celebrated Women’s Day till now and how do I? I am shooting for most of my waking hours?! But I am sure that a lot of the other’s on the show do. I have heard that it is a day when all women indulge themselves in pampering at spas and parlours etc. But I don’t think that is the only way in which one can celebrate being a woman. I salute all women who make a positive difference to society and work for the betterment of others.

Ashlesha Sawant (Urmila of Dil Se Diya Vachan)

I think I will plan something with all of my closest female friends and family members. If I get the day off, nothing like it for sure! Then I can treat my family to some quality spa time while it will be a celebration over lunch or dinner with my friends! Nothing quite like a girls day out… (smiles).

Veebha Anand (Laxmi of Sanskaar Laxmi)

I have never really celebrated Women’s Day. The only woman who comes to mind on this day is my mother. Her dedication towards our home and family is one to learn from. She has always supported me and my siblings in all we do. She has encouraged me every step of the way towards the realisation of my dream of being an actress!

Fox Series enhances programming to create New Women’s Channel

2011-02-28T16:41:00.000+04:00

The channel, now called FOX, targets women with quality programming dubbed in Arabic and available in dual audio

Fox International Channels (FIC) is upgrading its FOX Series channel into a new 100 percent Arabic general entertainment channel for women featuring content available in dual audio (Arabic and English). The new FOX channel, will be called FOX, features exclusive blockbuster shows as well as new and exciting genres including international lifestyle programming.

“FOX Series was dedicated to bringing the best quality home entertainment to the region. FOX is taking this philosophy one step further and creating a channel for women with great formats, shows and new seasons of programming. Our research revealed that there is a huge demand for quality entertainment targeting women. Taking a page from these insights and findings, the all new FOX channel will now be the one-stop destination; bridging this void,” said Rohit D’Silva, General Manager at FIC Middle East.

Fox will be premiering a number of exciting new shows never-before-seen in the region on Free TV. The hugely popular award winning Glee, a musical comedy-drama television series that focuses on the high school glee club and Masterchef Australia, an Australian competitive cooking game show will now be showcased on FOX. Additionally, the channel will introduce to the region the ground-breaking novel series Lie to Me, the hit crime drama series based on the real-life scientific discoveries of world-renowned body language psychologist Paul Ekman. Especially exciting is the introduction of the show Jdeed O Mofeed during the day time, featuring unique content that adds educational value while providing practical solutions for women’s everyday life, across various genres such as cooking, arts and crafts, health and beauty, parenting and home improvement. The ever famous favorite classic Desperate Housewives will also be showcased featuring season 6. As a launch special, FOX will air all these shows on a daily basis, bringing viewers a new episode every week night.

The new FOX channel, just like the FOX series channels will be readily available on Free-to-Air and accessible to all individuals in the region.

“FOX is the next step in the brand’s evolution, offering improved value proposition to advertisers that is more comprehensive, with novel genres of programming and exciting new series that cater especially to women. You could not ask for better programming!” said Pierre Al Daher, President, Broadcasting, Rotana Group.

Mammootty – The best actor award 2011 on Asianet

2011-02-25T12:31:00.001+04:00

Mammootty officially inaugurates the
'Mammootty - The best actor award'

Megastar Mammootty launched the second edition of ‘Mammootty — The best actor award’ in the presence of the jury members and MR Rajan, Asianet Assistant Vice President. The show on Asianet is for finding the best talents in Kerala.

Mammoottty and the participants

The second edition is coming with never before seen sessions and challenges. The show will have 10 contestants (five male and five females), who were selected and trained by the young brigade of Malayalam film industry – Arun Kumar, Martin Prakkat, Rohan Krishna, Sunil Karyattukara, Rajesh Kannankara, Radhakrishnan Mangalath, Deepu Karunakaran, Shyju Anthikadu, Mohan Raghavan and Mammas.

A jury comprising award winning film maker Ranjith, actress-director Revathy and cinematographer Venu will judge the participant’s talents.

The show will be aired every Sunday at 12.30 (UAE) on Asianet and every Friday at 20.30 (UAE) on Asianet Middle East.

OSN launches OSN Action HD

2011-02-22T17:50:00.000+04:00

The launch of OSN Action HD brings the line-up to 13 HD channels exclusively to OSN customers

OSN recently confirmed the launch of OSN ACTION HD — a brand new channel that will provide the very best in action entertainment to OSN customers from 01 March. The latest addition to the network brings the OSN line-up to over 85 channels which include 13 HD channels to OSN customers in the MENA region.

OSN ACTION HD is non-stop adrenaline rush of thrilling HD entertainment, viewers who love action fuelled movies will be in paradise with hundreds of films packed full of the biggest and best thrills any action fan could wish for. Explosive action, stunts and death-defying antics all from the greatest action stars in the business.

“The launch of OSN ACTION HD responds to increasing customer demand for high quality programming with the intensity and vividness of HD. We are proud to be able to offer the region’s most comprehensive HD service, OSN homes can currently access up to 13 HD channels spanning entertainment, sports, movies, series, kids and documentaries. Our customers have now come to demand HD as standard and we look forward announcing more HD channels in the coming months.”

The action packed line-up includes Ninja Assassin, Saw VI, Let Me In, The Grudge 3, The Midnight Meat Train, Armored, The Butterfly Effect 3, Echelon Conspiracy and Wild Things: Foursome plus many more.

With the addition of OSN ACTION HD, customers will be able to enjoy the largest range of OSN HD programming and other leading channel brands including Discovery, Nat Geo, Food Network and Sky News.

Pallavi Joshi hosts Antakshari again!

2011-02-22T17:42:00.000+04:00

But wait!! Before you jump out of your seats in glee, let us inform you that it is not what you think…

Archana Manav at Laxmi's wedding

Zee TV is back with Antakshri but this time in Sanskaar Laxmi’s wedding. Our very own Pallavi Joshi will grace your screens this time with the popular Marathi singer Avdoot Guptay on Zee TV’s Sanskaar Laxmi as wedding festivities go into full swing. The actress was clearly enjoying herself during the shoot and was all bright eyed and chirpy till the wee hours of the morning.

Pallavi and Avdoot

Also shaking a leg at the Antakshari will be TV’s heartthrobs — Ankita Lokhande, Sushant Rajput, Nandish Sandhu and Rashmi Desai. The four stars will sing, dance and join in the family frolic with popular tracks like Range De, Aiwaien aiwaien, Laung da Lishkara and others.

A source in Zee TV told, “Laxmi’s wedding will be like no other on Indian television as it will showcase the ethnicity and vibrancy of Gujarati weddings. It’s an opportunity for us to acquaint our audiences with these small rituals and traditions which form such an integral part of any wedding. The rich Gujarati culture and heritage rooted to their traditional ethics adorn the matrimonial celebrations with typical Gujarati fancies, elaborating the vivacity and exhilaration prevalent in their community.”

Rashmi and Nandish

The producer of Sanskaar Laxmi, Rajesh Joshi said, “It’s a huge challenge for us to put together such an extravagant wedding on television. Gujarati wedding celebrations and rituals are replete with gaiety and frolic and I’m sure pan Indian viewers will surely enjoy it to the hilt. The unique blend of traditions and detailing is something which make Laxmi’s wedding a sheer delight. Coming from a humble background, will Laxmi fight all odds to win the hearts of the Purohits? Will Laxmi be able to mould herself with the new way of life and adjust to a large family where each member has a different personality? Laxmi’s journey from Dharigam to Purohit’s family in the cosmopolitan city, Mumbai, will be the highpoint of the show.”

Archana Manav at Laxmi's wedding.

The wedding celebrations which are expected to go on for four days, will be a grand celebration of everything that is Guajarati. Right from the smaller rituals like the Tippani dance, to the Athango dance, producer Rajesh Joshi is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that this is the most talked about shaadi of the year.

Tune in to Sanskaar Laxmi every Sunday to Wednesday at 10.30 PM on Zee TV to be a part of the shaadi that will blow your mind!!

Academy Awards Live on Fox Movies at 3am (UAE) on Feb 28

2011-02-09T21:33:00.000+04:00

FOX Movies set to air 83rd Academy Awards, bringing the stars and action of Oscar night live at 3am on Feb 28 to Middle East movie lovers. Starting February 4 2011, every Friday and Saturday features three Oscar winning movies back-to back leading up to the 2011 Academy Awards. 26 prestigious classic films will provide viewers the opportunity to watch greats from the past.

Fox Movies will be exclusively airing this year's Oscars live from Hollywood's Kodak Theatre, having secured the exclusive rights to the biggest event in the world's annual film calendar for the third year running. On February 28 at 3am (UAE), movie lovers across the Middle East will be able to tune in to Fox Movies and be a part of the action and excitement of the 83rd Academy Awards, all from the comfort of their homes.

Pearl Harbour

Additionally, to celebrate the Oscar season, Fox Movies has scheduled a month-long weekend movie-marathon, bringing viewers three Oscar-winning movies back-to-back every Friday and Saturday started on February 4, with a different movie showing at 22.00, 00.00 and 02.00 (UAE). Viewers can enjoy a total of 26 Oscar-winning movie classics including Little Miss Sunshine, Mystic River, Monster's Ball, Braveheart, The Last King of Scotland, Walk the Line, Million Dollar Baby, Training Day, Dreamgirls and Pearl Harbour.

"The Oscars is not only one of the most glamorous red carpet events in the world, it is also the biggest event in the world's annual movie calendar that brings together the best of the past year in the movie industry," said Athreyan Sundararajan, Marketing Director, Fox International Channels Middle East.

To promote the awards, Fox is running a series of promotional elements on Fox Movies and several cross channel promos on Fox Series and Rotana Channels. The elements feature; Oscar themed night promos, Oscar ceremony promos, interactive vox pops and Oscar contest promos. Additionally, the activation is also supported by print, online and radio campaigns in KSA and the UAE. Sponsoring the celebration throughout the month and the live broadcast are M&M's, Panadol, Sensodyne, Hardees, KFC and Ali Café.

"We are excited to be bringing our viewers live, all the dazzling stars and dramatic anticipation that the night is world renowned for. To celebrate this thrilling night, we are also bringing a series of Oscar-winning classics in the run up to the event demonstrating our commitment to providing viewers across the Middle East with exhilarating content straight from Hollywood." Athreyan Sundararajan, Marketing Director, Fox International Channels Middle East.

This year, Anne Hathaway, from The Devil Wears Prada and The Princess Diaries, and James Franco, from Spider Man and Freaks and Geeks, both nominated for Best Performance awards this year, will be hosting the Academy Awards, putting a fresh face to the Oscars. Meanwhile, the full official roster of Oscar nominees was announced on January 25. The King's Speech featured prominently with nominations in the best picture, best director, best actor, best supporting actor and best supporting actress categories. The Fighter and Black Swan were also nominated in several categories.

Farsi speaking audiences warm up to popular international TV series

2011-02-08T14:07:00.001+04:00

FARSI1 TV taps into the fast growing market with dubbed versions of 24, Prison Break and The Mask of Analia

Popular American drama 24

Dubbed versions of popular American soap operas and dramas such as 24 and Prison Break are proving to be increasingly popular with Farsi speakers across the world as they tune into FARSI1, the privately owned Farsi-language TV station based in the UAE.

FARSI1 is a 24-hour free-to-air general entertainment channel featuring a broad and comprehensive selection of the finest international and regional entertainment programs across different genres. By lining up a refreshing array of award-winning dramas, action series and comedies, FARSI1 has succeeded in entertaining viewers like never before.

Dubbed version of South American
series The Mask of Analia

Some of the popular programmes – all dubbed in Farsi – include Prison Break, 24, Victoria, Story of a Mermaid, Dharma & Greg, Malcolm in the Middle and Bez Bebek, among others. Also captivating audiences are dubbed versions of Korean dramas such as White Lie (Korean) and South American series, including The Mask of Analia and Missing.

FARSI1 is a joint venture between MOBY Group and News Corporation. The independent TV channel is transmitted via Eutelsat W3A and targets more than 100 million Farsi speakers throughout the Middle East and Central Asia. In the UAE, the channel is also available via cable and IPTV on all packages of E-Vision (Channel 251) and Du TV (Channel 791.

A still from Korean drama White Lie

Commenting on the development, Zaid Mohseni, Chief Executive Officer of FARSI1, said: “Since its launch, FARSI1 has rapidly attracted a huge following for the high quality and rich variety of its programming. FARSI1 has set the standard for Farsi language television entertainment by ensuring content is engaging yet appropriate for the entire family.”

Mohseni attributed FARSI1’s instant success to the rapid evolution of TV audiences who demand quality entertainment and its own ability to bridge the gap between different generations of Farsi-speaking viewers.

“Our programs are doing well because they resonate with the Farsi-speaking viewers, who explore content that they can watch and enjoy with their families. What is amazing is that these dramas have become the hot topics of discussion at dinner tables and social gatherings,” he added.

For more information, please visit www.farsi1.tv

Choti Bahu returns on Zee TV

2011-02-04T14:19:00.001+04:00

Come Fall in Love …Once Again

‘Choti Bahu — Dev aur Radhika ki ek nayi prem kahani” premiering on Feb. 16, every Sunday to Thursday at 7.30pm.

Avinash Sachdev and Rubina Dilaik

are coming back to the small screen

as Dev and Radhika on CHOTI BAHU

Love never ends. It is the infinite, eternal, transformative power of the universe. Going by the efficacy of this very thought and increasing demand from the audiences to bring their favourite couple Dev and Radhika back on TV screens, Zee TV will soon premiere an all new series of Choti Bahu — the show that was an undisputed leader in its timeslot.

Rubina Dilaik, coming soon as

Radhika on CHOTI BAHU

This year, Zee TV will once again touch the hearts of its millions of viewers with the pure, unadulterated and divine love of Dev and Radhika. This endearing and fresh story of Choti Bahu will have a new plot and many more actors, Dev — Radhika aka Avinash Sachdev and Rubina Dilaik will once again warm your hearts as the divine couple intensely in love.

The show will be set in Rawal, the place where the spiritual love between Radha and Krishna actually blossomed according to Indian mythology. The divine love story of Dev and Radhika will start when they are kids. Unlike the protagonists of the first season, Dev and Radhika will not be silent spectators and will now be projected as more outspoken and pro-active people. The story of the new version of Choti Bahu will begin in Rawal and later move to Mathura. Made by India’s foremost content producer, DJ’s Creative Unit, the show highlights love, relationships, friendship and even spirituality in modern India.

Avinash Sachdev, coming soon as

Dev on CHOTI BAHU

Source in Zee TV said, “We were overwhelmed by the response that we received from viewers for Choti Bahu. Since the time the show ended, we have been flooded with calls, SMS’s and mails from viewers to revive the magic of Dev and Radhika. The Radha — Krishna amour is a love legend of all times. Classical love legends from Hindu mythology and folklore of India are passionate in content and never fail to appeal to the romantic side in us. These fables stretch our imagination, engage our emotions and entertain us. It’s endearing to see that Dev and Radhika as characters have become so enormously popular and that their love is synonymous with Radha — Krishna. Also, the idea of exploring spiritual relationships, divinity, the existence of soulmates was so very amazing and alluring, that we developed a fresh plot but decided to retain Dev and Radhika’s magic which had caught the audiences fancy. We hope this story too will touch hearts!”

Echoing the same thought, Avinash Sachdev, the man who will once again essay Dev’s role said, “Both Rubina and me are extremely elated about being a part of Choti Bahu’s new quintessential story.”

“It’s a complete new show with an entirely new packaging. Besides Kanha, the only resemblance to the earlier show is that me and Avinash play Dev and Radhika but in a totally new and different avataar. Dev and Radhika’s chemistry is so genuine and real that they have rewritten romance on television. Even this time around, we hope that we click with the viewers and are able to portray convincingly the eternal bond of Dev and Radhika,” ends Rubina Dilaik.

For an ethereal mix of love, laughter, tears, tragedy, drama and above all to connect with the divine, do tune in to Zee TV’s new show…. “Choti Bahu — Dev aur Radhika ki ek nayi prem kahani” ‘Dev and Radhika’s One new Love story’.

Interview with Kratika Sengar, Jhansi Ki Rani

2011-02-01T17:55:00.001+04:00

Kratika Sengar, who plays the title role in the historial saga Jhansi Ki Rani airing on Zee TV shares her challenging experience about her legendary character in the immensely loved epic show.

The most important phase has started in Jhansi Ki Rani. What do we look forward to in the serial now?
Even as India feels a blast of patriotic fervor this Republic Day, the Rani of Jhansi rescues her child Anand Rao and father Moropant Tambe from the clutches of the British. The Rani hoists the Jhansi flag on her fort annexed by the British and sternly announces that absolutely nothing could possibly stop her from getting her Jhansi back from the British — a scene bound to give goose-bumps to every Indian across the world. The grand episode on Wednesday, January 26 marks the beginning of a fiery battle for Indian Independence between Rani Laxmibai and the British.

How do you feel playing the role of a legendary character of the stature of Jhansi Ki Rani?

Rani Laxmibai is considered to be the epitome of female bravery in India and essaying the role of a landmark character in history makes me feel very proud and at the same time extremely lucky to have bagged this role. Knowing about the Rani has been a great humbling experience, memories of which I will cherish forever. It’s no mean task to essay a historical character like Jhansi Ki Rani especially when the story track revolves around the famous battles she fought.

How has the character inspired you as a person? What kind of research have you done to play this role?

Once I was confirmed to play the role of Manu I was professionally trained in horse riding and sword fighting. I spent some time browsing the net and pouring over books to know more about “Jhansi Ki Rani”. Also, I had been to the workshop to learn the shloka's and the body language of how Jhansi Ki Rani was. Enormous research and micro-level detailing has gone into ensuring that this landmark struggle for India's independence comes across as impactful and memorable for the ardent followers of the show.

Has there been any change in your personality after playing Jhansi Ki Rani?

Since we shoot almost throughout the day its difficult to be normal at times as I continue to be in my character. The character of Rani Laxmi Bai has definitely instilled a lot of discipline in my life and I also feel stronger as a woman playing the role of the Rani. Struggle, Patriotism, Nationalism and National Integration have found new meaning in my life post Jhansi KI Rani experience.

Jhansi Ki Rani is an action packed drama. The war phase has started in the serial. Did you undergo any special training for the war sequence? Any anecdotes or experiences while training?

The hours devoted to training for the battle scenes have been increased and the actors are up at the crack of dawn to rehearse for the major war that is currently being shot. I train for nearly 4 hours each day to perfect my sword wielding technique.
The ancient art of Malakhamb has been brought to the sets by a trainer in the efforts to increase my stamina, flexibility and endurance. Malkhamb is a traditional Indian sport in which a gymnast performs feats and poses in concert with a vertical wooden pole or rope.
There have been many such instances where I have fallen off my horse but Thank God! There has not been any major injury. But, once my horse lost its way and went haywire… I lost control and was about to fall off a cliff … Sameer Dharmadhikari rushed in at the right moment and saved my life. The memories of that day still send shivers down my spine.

What challenges do face shooting for the outdoor war sequences?

With no stone left unturned in ensuring a grand re-creation of the Azadi battles, the upcoming episodes will be a sheer delight to watch! It’s a crazy adventure shooting for the battle sequences! The heat, the grime, the heavy costumes and jewelry, it can all get very strenuous at times. In a battle sequence, one ends up damaging or losing a lot of props and jewelry. So it constantly needs to be replaced and the damaged jewelry is truly any costume designer’s nightmare. But, the result you see on screen completely justifies the pains we’re taking!
Re-creating battles from a bygone era is a challenge in itself. A thousand women with ornate jewelry ranging from earrings and necklaces to payals and bangles, hundreds of men in bejeweled pagdis, kadas and traditional neck-pieces, even animals adorned with olden era baubles and gems — all to be captured in violent, vigorous battling action is not an easy task.

Tell us about the promo shoot in Kolhapur and the scale of production in the war scenes?

The historical drama is headed towards an exciting climax and currently the channel wants to recreate the power, the rage and the magnitude of this landmark historical war.
People in the production team say that Zee TV has spent close to Rs.4 Crores on the final war sequences of the show. Manpower to the order of 2000 soldiers, almost a hundred elephants and horses, bulk orders of ammunition such as replicas of swords, archery sets, shields and armor, special war wardrobes for the manpower hired, international graphic experts flown in to enhance the grandeur of the war sequences have sent the budget of the show sky-rocketing.
Zee TV is walking that extra mile to translate this vision into reality and give the audience a genuine flavor of the Rani's epic war.

The patriotic fervor of the country is in full swing during Independence and Republic Day. Do you see patriotism in a different light after portraying the role of the Rani?

Yes definitely! Patriotism will never remain the same for me again. As a kid we used to celebrate Republic Day with great enthusiasm in school. Unfurling the Tricolor and singing the National Anthem early morning filled our hearts with pride but reading about the great leaders and living the character of a legendary figure, who began the Indian Revolution against British Colonialism and for Indian independence, day in and day out changes your outlook towards the concept of ‘Freedom’ and ‘Struggle for Independence’ completely.

Zee Cine Awards 2011 on Zee TV at 21.30 on Feb 5

2011-02-01T17:35:00.000+04:00

SHOWING ON UAE SCREENS FROM 20 JANUARY TO 27 JANUARY

2011-01-20T13:48:00.000+04:00

The Thriller

SHARJAH

AL HAMRA Tel: 5650953.

15.30, 18.30, 21.30 & 00.30 No One Killed Jessica [G] (Hindi).

CONCORDE Tel: 5623956.

13.30 & 19.30 Kaavelan [G] (Tamil), 16.30 & 22.30 The Thriller [G] (Malayalam).

Kaavalan

GRAND BUHAIRAH (Riviera Tower) (I) Tel: 5563300.

10.00, 12.35, 15.20, 18.10, 21.00 & 23.50 Carlos (Master of International Terrorism) [18].

(II). 10.00, 12.20, 14.40, 17.00, 19.20, 21.40 & 00.00 The Dilemma (3D) [TBA].

(III). 10.30, 12.30 & 14.30 Sammy’s Adventures (3D) [G], 16.30, 19.00, 21.30 & 23.50 Green Hornet (3D) [15].

(IV). 10.15, 12.30, 14.45, 17.10, 19.25, 21.30 & 23.45 Casino Jack [TBA].

(V). 11.00, 13.30, 16.00, 18.30, 21.00 & 23.35 The Way Back [PG].

(VI). 10.20, 12.40, 15.00 & 17.20 Asal Aswad [G] (Arabic), 19.50, 22.00 & 00.10 Alkeet Moot [G] (Arabic).

(VII). 10.00, 14.00, 18.00 & 22.00 The Big Bang [18], 12.00, 16.00, 20.00 & 00.00 Season of The Witch [PG].

GRAND MEGA MALL (I). Tel: 5751888.

10.00, 12.20, 14.40, 17.00, 19.20, 21.40 & 00.00 The Dilemma (3D) [TBA].

(II). 10.15, 12.30, 14.45, 17.10, 19.25, 21.30 & 23.45 Casino Jack [TBA].

(III). 10.30, 12.30 & 14.30 Sammy’s Adventures (3D) [G], 16.30, 19.00, 21.30 & 23.50 Green Hornet (3D) [15].

(IV). 11.00, 13.30, 16.00, 18.30, 21.00 & 23.35 The Way Back [PG].

(V). 10.30, 12.40, 14.50, 17.00, 19.10, 21.25 & 23.35 Dhobi Ghat [G] (Hindi).

(VI). 11.30, 16.30 & 21.35 Morning Glory [15], 14.00, 19.00 & 23.55 Ondine [PG].

(VII). 10.00, 13.00, 16.00 & 19.00 Yamla Pagla [G] (Hindi), 22.00 & 00.20 Asal Aswad [G] (Arabic).

GRAND SAHARA (I) Tel: 5316500.

10.00, 12.20, 14.40, 17.00, 19.20, 21.40 & 00.00 The Dilemma (3D) [TBA].

(II). 10.00, 12.35, 15.20, 18.10, 21.00 & 23.50 Carlos (Master of International Terrorism) [18].

(III). 10.30, 12.30 & 14.30 Sammy’s Adventures (3D) [G], 16.30, 19.00, 21.30 & 23.50 Green Hornet (3D) [15].

(IV). 10.15, 12.30, 14.45, 17.10, 19.25, 21.30 & 23.45 Casino Jack [TBA].

(V). 10.30, 15.00, 19.30 & 23.55 Morning Glory [15], 12.45, 17.15 & 21.45 Asal Aswad [G] (Arabic).

(VI). 11.00, 13.00, 15.10, 19.30 & 23.50 The Big Bang [18], 17.20 & 21.40 Season of The Witch [PG].

STAR (I) Tel: 5327555.

13.15, 15.30, 18.00, 20.30 & 23.00 Dhobi Ghat [G] (Hindi).

(II). 14.15, 16.30, 19.00, 21.30 & 00.00 Dhobi Ghat [G] (Hindi).

(III). 13.45, 17.00, 20.00 & 23.30 Yamla Pagla Deewana [G] (Hindi).

(IV). 13.30, 16.00, 18.45, 21.30 & 00.15 No One Killed Jessica [G] (Hindi).

(V). 13.15, 16.00, 21.15 & 00.00 Band Baaja Baaraat [G] (Hindi), 18.45 Tees Maar Khan [G] (Hindi).

UMM AL QUWAIN

GRANADA Tel: 7656804.

16.45, 19.45 & 23.00 Best Actor [G] (Malayalam).

RAS AL KHAIMAH

GRAND MANAR (I) Tel: 2278888.

10.00, 12.35, 15.20, 18.10, 21.00 & 23.50 Carlos (Master of International Terrorism) [18].

(II). 11.00, 13.30, 16.00, 18.30, 21.00 & 23.35 The Way Back [PG].

(III). 10.30, 12.30 & 14.30 Sammy’s Adventures (3D) [G], 16.30, 19.00, 21.30 & 23.50 Green Hornet (3D) [15].

(IV). 10.30, 15.00 & 19.30 Morning Glory [15], 12.45, 17.15, 21.45 & 23.55 The Dilemma [TBA].

(V). 11.00, 15.10, 19.30 & 23.50 Casino Jack [TBA], 13.00, 17.20 & 21.40 Season of The Witch [PG].

(VI). 10.20, 12.40, 15.00 & 17.20 Asal Aswad [G] (Arabic), 19.40, 21.50 & 00.00 Alkeet Moot [G] (Arabic).

(VII). 10.00, 13.00, 16.00 & 19.00 Yamla Pagla Deewana [G] (Hindi), 22.00 & 00.00 The Big Bang [18].

GULF (I) (RAK) Tel: 2223313.

13.30, 16.30, 19.30 & 22.30 Dhobi Ghat [G] (Hindi).

(II). 13.45, 17.00, 20.00 & 22.45 Siruthai [G] (Tamil).

DUBAI

AL QUOZ TWIN (I) Tel: 3469707.

13.30, 16.30, 19.30 & 22.30 Kaavalan [G] (Tamil).

(II). 13.30, 16.30, 19.30 & 22.30 Thriller [G] (Malayalam).

DONYA (I) (JEBEL ALI) Tel: 8812797.

16.30, 19.30 & 22.30 Siruthai [G] (Tamil).

(II). 16.30, 19.30 & 22.30 Kandahar [G] (Malayalam).

(III). 16.30, 19.30 & 22.30 Yamla Pagla Deewana [G] (Hindi).

(IV). 16.30, 19.30 & 22.30 No One Killed Jessica [G] (Hindi).

GRAND CINECITY (AL GHURAIR CITY) (I) Tel: 2289898.

10.00, 12.20, 14.40, 17.00, 19.20, 21.40 & 00.00 The Dilemma (3D) [TBA].

(II). 10.00, 12.35, 15.20, 18.10, 21.00 & 23.50 Carlos (Master of International Terrorism) [18].

(III). 10.15, 12.30, 14.45, 17.10, 19.25, 21.30 & 23.45 Casino Jack [TBA].

(IV). 10.10, 12.30, 14.50, 17.15, 19.35, 21.50 & 00.10 Green Hornet (3D) [15].

(V). 10.00, 14.00, 18.00 & 22.00 The Big Bang [18], 12.00, 16.00, 20.00 & 00.00 Season of The Witch [PG].

(VI). 10.20, 12.40, 15.00 & 17.20 Asal Aswad [G] (Arabic), 19.40, 21.50 & 00.00 Morning Glory [15].

(VII). 10.45, 13.45, 16.45, 19.45 & 22.45 Yamla Pagla Deewana [G] (Hindi).

(VIII). 10.30, 12.40, 14.50, 17.00, 19.10, 21.25 & 23.35 Dhobi Ghat [G] (Hindi).

GRAND CINEPLEX (DUBAI GRAND HYATT) (I) Tel: 3242000.

10.00, 12.20, 14.40, 17.00, 19.20, 21.40 & 00.00 The Dilemma (3D) [TBA].

(II). 10.00, 12.35, 15.20, 18.10, 21.00 & 23.50 Carlos (Master of International Terrorism) [18].

(III). 10.15, 12.30, 14.45, 17.10, 19.25, 21.30 & 23.45 Casino Jack [TBA].

(IV). 10.50, 13.00, 15.10, 17.20, 19.30, 21.45 & 23.55 Season of The Witch [PG].

(V). 10.10, 12.30, 14.50, 17.15, 19.35, 21.50 & 00.10 Green Hornet (3D) [15].

(VI). 11.00, 13.30, 16.00, 18.30, 21.00 & 23.35 The Way Back [PG].

(VII). 10.30, 12.40, 14.50, 17.00, 19.10, 21.25 & 23.35 Dhobi Ghat [G] (Hindi).

(VIII). 10.20, 12.40, 15.00 & 17.20 Asal Aswad [G] (Arabic), 19.50, 22.00 & 00.10 Alkeet Moot [G] (Arabic).

(IX). 10.00, 14.00, 18.00 & 22.00 Little Fockers [15], 12.00, 16.00, 20.00 & 00.00 The Big Bang [18].

(X). 10.00, 14.30, 19.20 & 23.50 The Tourist [G], 12.00, 16.40 & 21.20 The Fighter [PG].

(XI). 10.00, 12.40, 15.20 & 18.00 No One Killed Jessica [G] (Hindi), 21.30 & 23.45 Morning Glory [15].

(XII). 10.45, 13.45, 16.45, 19.45 & 22.45 Yamla Pagla Deewana [G] (Hindi).

GRAND MERCATO (I) Tel: 3498765

10.00, 12.20, 14.40, 17.00, 19.20, 21.40 & 00.00 The Dilemma (3D) [TBA].

(II). 10.00, 12.35, 15.20, 18.10, 21.00 & 23.50 Carlos (Master of International Terrorism) [18].

(III). 10.30, 12.30 & 14.30 Sammy’s Adventures (3D) [G], 16.30, 19.00, 21.30 & 23.50 Green Hornet (3D) [15].

(IV). 11.00, 13.30, 16.00, 18.30, 21.00 & 23.35 The Way Back [PG].

(V). 10.00, 14.50, 19.40, 21.50 & 00.00 Dhobi Ghat [G] (Hindi), 12.10 & 17.00 Yamla Pagla Deewana [G] (Hindi).

(VI). 10.30, 15.00, 19.35 & 23.55 Casino Jack [TBA], 12.45, 17.15 & 21.45 Morning Glory [15].

(VII). 11.00, 13.00, 15.10, 19.30 & 23.50 The Big Bang [18], 17.20 & 21.40 Season of The Witch [PG].

GRAND METROPLEX (I) Tel: 3438383.

10.00, 12.20, 14.40, 17.00, 19.20, 21.40 & 00.00 The Dilemma (3D) [TBA].

(II). 10.30, 12.40, 14.50, 17.00, 19.10, 21.25 & 23.35 Dhobi Ghat [G] (Hindi).

(III). 10.30, 12.45, 15.00, 17.15, 19.30, 21.45 & 00.10 Morning Glory [15].

(IV). 11.00, 13.10, 15.20, 17.30, 19.40, 21.55 & 00.15 The Big Bang [18].

(V). 11.00, 13.30, 16.00, 18.40, 21.20 & 23.45 Ondine [PG].

(VI). 10.10, 12.30, 14.50, 17.15, 19.35, 21.50 & 00.10 Green Hornet (3D) [15].

(VII). 10.45, 13.45, 16.45, 19.45 & 22.45 Yamla Pagla Deewana [G] (Hindi).

(VIII). 10.50, 13.00, 15.10, 17.20, 19.30, 21.45 & 23.55 Season of The Witch [PG].

ABU DHABI

ELDORADO (I) Tel: 6763555.

13.30, 16.30, 19.30 & 22.30 Kavalan [G] (Tamil).

(II). 13.00, 16.00, 19.00 & 22.00 Thriller [G] (Malayalam).

GRAND ABU DHABI MALL (I) Tel: 6459499.

10.00, 12.20, 14.40, 17.00, 19.20, 21.40 & 00.00 The Dilemma (3D) [TBA].

(II). 10.30, 12.30 & 14.30 Sammy’s Adventures (3D) [G], 16.30, 19.00, 21.30 & 23.50 Green Hornet (3D) [15].

(III). 10.00, 12.35, 15.20, 18.10, 21.00 & 23.50 Carlos (Master of International Terrorism) [18].

(IV). 10.15, 12.30, 14.45, 17.10, 19.25, 21.30 & 23.45 Casino Jack [TBA].

(V). 10.30, 12.30, 14.30 & 16.45 Morning Glory [15], 19.00, 21.30 & 23.55 Asal Aswad [G] (Arabic).

(VI). 11.00, 13.00 & 15.10 The Big Bang [18], 17.20, 19.30 & 21.40 Season of The Witch [PG].

GRAND AL MARIAH (I) Tel: 6785000.

10.00, 12.20, 14.40, 17.00, 19.20, 21.40 & 00.00 The Dilemma (3D) [TBA].

(II). 10.00, 12.35, 15.20, 18.10, 21.00 & 23.50 Carlos (Master of International Terrorism) [18].

(III). 10.15, 12.30, 14.45, 17.10, 19.25, 21.30 & 23.45 Casino Jack [TBA].

(IV). 10.10, 12.30, 14.50, 17.15, 19.35, 21.50 & 00.10 Green Hornet (3D) [15].

(V). 11.00, 13.30, 16.00, 18.30, 21.00 & 23.35 The Way Back [PG].

(VI). 10.00, 14.50, 19.40, 21.50 & 00.00 Dhobi Ghat [G] (Hindi), 12.10 & 17.00 Yamla Pagla Deewana [G] (Hindi).

(VII). 10.20, 12.40, 15.00 & 17.20 Asal Aswad [G] (Arabic), 19.50, 22.00 & 00.10 Alkeet Moot [G] (Arabic).

(VIII). 10.00, 14.00, 18.00 & 22.00 The Big Bang [18], 12.00, 16.00, 20.00 & 00.00 Ondine [PG].

(IX). 11.00, 15.20, 19.40 & 00.00 Morning Glory [15], 13.10, 17.30 & 21.50 The Dilemma [TBA].

NATIONAL (I) Tel: 6711700.

14.30, 17.30, 20.30 & 23.30 TBA.

(II). 12.30, 15.30, 18.30 & 21.30 TBA.

(III). 13.00, 15.00, 17.00, 19.00, 21.00 & 23.00 TBA.

(IV). 14.00, 16.30, 19.30 & 22.30 TBA.

AL AIN

GRAND ROTANA (I) Tel: 03 7544447.

10.00, 12.20, 14.40, 17.00, 19.20, 21.40 & 00.00 The Dilemma (3D) [TBA].

(II). 11.00 & 13.00 Sammy’s Adventures (3D) [G], 15.10, 17.20, 19.30, 21.40 & 23.50 Casino Jack (3D) [TBA].

(III). 11.15, 13.15, 15.15 & 17.15 The Big Bang [18], 19.20, 21.35 & 23.55 Ondine [PG].

(IV). 10.15, 12.30, 14.45 & 17.00 Green Hornet (3D) [15], 19.15, 21.40 & 00.10 Asal Aswad [G] (Arabic).

GRAND CINEPLEX (I) Tel: 03 7511228.

10.30, 12.45, 15.00, 17.15, 19.30, 21.45 & 00.00 The Dilemma (3D) [TBA].

(II). 11.00 & 13.00 Sammy’s Adventures (3D) [G], 15.10, 17.20, 19.30, 21.40 & 23.50 Casino Jack (3D) [TBA].

(III). 11.15, 13.15, 15.15 & 17.15 The Big Bang [18], 19.15, 21.30 & 23.45 Ondine [PG].

(IV). 12.00, 14.30 & 16.45 Green Hornet (3D) [15], 19.00, 21.30 & 00.00 Asal Aswad [G] (Arabic).

Kaavalan

Annual Star Screen Awards on Star Plus at 6.30pm on Jan 22

2011-01-19T20:30:00.000+04:00

The 17^th Annual STAR Screen Awards airing on Jan 22 at 6.30pm will be full of surprises this year! Living the promise of ‘Is baar hoga wohi, jo socha nahi’.

Complete with the most unique performances, the most spectacular stunts, the most baffling awardees and the newest of gossip, the awards ceremony honors the best talent in Hindi and Marathi cinema in 2010. The eminent jury at the awards this year chose to put a number of commercially successful and critically acclaimed movies through the litmus test and award only true talent in cinema. It’s not surprising that only the most deserving of movies and actors walk away with the golden trophy this year.

The 17^th annual STAR Screen Awards is complete with never-seen-before performances as Bollywood Superstars come forward with the best hits of the year. While Katrina Kaif mesmerises audiences with belly dancing moves in her first stage performance of ‘Sheila Ki Jawaani’, Shahid Kapoor, Bipasha Basu, Aishwarya Rai and Salman Khan showcase spectacular performances in their signature styles. Aishwarya Rai stuns audiences by levitating mid air at the opening of her performance and Shahid Kapoor wows everyone with his infinite image act! Catch Salman Khan doing his rendition of Sheila Ki Jawaani for the first time ever!

While the newest twosome from tinsel town, Anushka Sharma and Ranveer Singh, display sizzling chemistry as hosts of the show, the audiences are treated to a hilarious battle of wits between Bollywood heart-throbs Shahrukh Khan and Shahid Kapoor. Known for his quick-wit and sense of timing, SRK also throws open some of the most talked about rumors in Bollywood and manages to pull some skeletons out of the closet. The awesome twosome also take the opportunity to pay a tribute to yesteryear’s Bollywood divas such as Hema Malini, Rekha, Zeenat Aman and Asha Parekh.

Asianet honours Amitabh Bachchan

2011-01-19T20:00:00.003+04:00

Big B’s love for Kerala and its superstars reflects in each word that he wrote on his blog and tweets that he posted during his recent visit to the state to be part of the 13th Ujala-Asianet Film Awards.

Terming the Asianet Lifetime Achievement honour accorded to him at the function held at Kochi as ‘a humbling experience’, Amitabh Bachchan said, “I thought it would be just another presence they were asking, but they had a surprise in store and gave me a Lifetime Achievement, with an incredible presentation of my work through all these years. Such a moving and truly humbling moment for me… an evening I shall never forget.”

Words of praise were also showered on the richness of the show and on the talented participants of Idea Star Singer.

“As I arrived, I spent time with the Star Singer competitors…Such a wonderful bunch of young singers and so talented. They sang songs from my films, even though they are Malayalis and would have problems speaking Hindi, with such confidence and aplomb. Fascinating.”

From the Kerala attire to the time spent with stalwarts of Malayalam film industry, Mammootty and Mohanlal, Bachchan was especially appreciative of the ambience.

“The ‘dhoti’ and the top were a gift from the organisers, which I thought appropriate to wear and the ‘Angavastra’, the gold-lined silk draped over the shoulders are the respectful presentations from Mohanlal and Mammootty, as an honoured gift. The respect and dignity that they accord me humbles me to an extent that I’m unable to fathom or understand. I am but an ordinary individual that gets glorified through the medium that I work in. My medium needs recognition, dignity and respect. Not me. If there had been no medium there would have been no me. So I respect the profession that has given me the opportunity to be a part of it, and created for me a vehicle that I am privileged to ride from time to time,” Bachchan wrote.

He was honoured by Asianet MD K Madhavan and the two Big Ms, Mammootty and Mohanlal.

Shiva or Parvati: Veebha’s confused!

2011-01-16T18:54:00.001+04:00

Watch new show Sanskaar Laxmi on Zee TV for Veeba's interesting performance.

Sanskaar Laxmi is a Saga of a young, innocent, partially literate Gujarati girl, who gets married into a joint family in Vile Parle, Mumbai and her trials and tribulations as she adjusts in this big family and also a husband who never wanted to marry her. Vibha Anand, Vivan Bathena, Aamir Dalvi, Anisha Kapoor and Rohit Purohit plays the important roles in Sanskaar Laxmi.

Starting on January 18, 2011, Every Sunday to Wednesday at 10.30pm (UAE).

Veebha Anand, the lead protagonist of Zee TV’s new show Sanskaar Laxmi performs a dance that was based on the story of Shiva as the ardhanarishwara.

Veebha Anand as Ardhnareshwar

“The ardhanarishwara is the best example of the perfect union of the complementary pairs that form the world. Since I am playing the role of Laxmi who is a devout Shiv Bhakt on the show, I was asked to dance on the Shiv Taandav music and sing a melodious stuti in praise of Lord Shiva and offer prayers on the Shivling,” said Veebha.

She adds, “I am a Bhangra and Bollywood type of girl so you can imagine my plight at having to attempt two very different styles of dancing and that too within just two days!! The make-up and hair too was exhaustive but at the end of the day I hope I was able to do justice to the expectations that were placed on me.”

“The dance had to be performed in an exclusive manner where Veebha plays both Shiva and Shakti and wears a costume that is half of Shiv Shankar and half of Parvati (Shakti). With the make-up requiring Veebha's face to be painted half in blue representing Shiv Shankar's anger and the other half to be that of Parvati ji's serenity and calmness; it took approximately four hours to finish the makeup and another two hours to do the hair, But the effort was totally worth it!! She danced with such energy and grace that I am sure the gods must be smiling down on her.” said a source from the sets.

Veebha Anand turning Gujarati!

Veebha’s preparations to play the lead of Zee TV’s new show Sanskaar Laxmi

What does it take to get an actress into the skin of her character? For Veebha Anand, the lead actress of Zee TV’s new show Sanskaar Laxmi, an exhaustive workshop was arranged by the writer cum producer, Raju Bhai. Veebha, is all gung-ho about playing the role of Lakshmi and was insistent about leaving no stone unturned when it came to lending credibility to the character that she portrays on screen.

Veebha Anand

“Having been brought up in the small town of Dehradun, I empathize with the small town mentality of Lakshmi but for a month before we started shooting, I felt that there was more to be done to become Lakshmi on screen. Moreover my producer Raju Bhai has placed such immense faith in me so I did not want to disappoint him. I began watching Guajarati movies and plays to understand the essence of the region, language and the mannerisms of its people. Raju Bhai was kind enough to take time out to give me lessons so that I could learn to speak the language well and pick up the accent that would lend authenticity to my portrayal of Laxmi. I play a girl who is full of life, innocent and makes a difference wherever she goes.” said Veebha. The actress has even learnt some Gujarati folk songs owing to the long Dandiya and Garba lessons that she has been taking from her Gujarati friends in Mumbai.

Seems that this lovely lass will soon be walking and talking with the panache of the native Guajarati with all the preparation that she has been putting into the role! We wish her all the very best in her endeavour.

Raju Bhai said, “Yes I did hold workshops for Veebha and other actors of the show to groom them to enact their Gujarati characters. All of them were very co-operative. With Veebha, in particular, it was not very tough as she has already portrayed a similar character on Indian Television. Her dedication is seen to be believed and I’m hoping she endears all with her performance.”

Ujala-Asianet 2011 film Awards distributed in Cochin

2011-01-11T14:19:00.001+04:00

The 13th Ujala-Asianet Film Awards 2011 were distributed in a glittering function held recently at the Port Trust Stadium, Willington Island, Cochin. The event was witnessed by 25,000 strong crowd. Several prominent persons from the film industry and socio-cultural spheres were present on the occasion.

Mohan Lal presented the life time achievement award to the epic hero of Indian Cinema, Amitab Bachchan. Asianet MD, K Madhavan and mega star Mammootty also honoured Big B for his outstanding contributions to Indian Film Industry.

The event was attended by a cross section of stars from South Indian film industry and have colourful programmes performed by leading Malayalam artistes along with a mix of stars from Kollywood and bollywood. Jayaram, Ilaya Thalapadhi Vijay, Karthi, Sneha, Sheela Devi, Rehman, Jagathy Sreekumar, Manoj K Jayan, Lakshmi Gopalaswami, Babu Antony, Menaka, Ranjini, Ambika, KPAC Lalitha, Sukumari, Annop Menon, Siddique, Narain, Maniyanpillai Raju, Rekha, Soniya Aggarwal, Dhanya Mari, Amala Paul, Mithra, Sarayu, Shafna, Ranjith Menon, Munna, Fazal Gaffur, Sabu Cheriyan and B Unnikrishnan are some of the personalities who were present at the function.

Pranjiyettan and The Saint won the award for the best film, which was accepted by its producer and Director Ranjith. Lal received the award for the best director for the movie In Ghost House Inn. Mohan Lal was honoured as the Asianet Golden Star Award for his outstanding performance in various movies. Mammootty bagged the best actor award for his role in Pranjiyettan and The Saint and Kuttisranku. Nayanthara was presented the best female actress award for the her female lead in Body Gaurd. Dilip and Mamtha Mohandas was on hand to collect the popular awards for her outstanding performance in various movies.

Lakshmi Rai, Meghna Raj, Meera Nandan, Remya Nambeesan, Anuya Bhagavath, Teja Sree, Reema Kallingal and other comedy artistes from TV/ Film industry, playback Singers Hariharan, Shreya Ghoshal, KS Chithra, MG Sreekumar, Suvi Suresh, G Venugopal entertained the audience with dance and songs. Other attractions of the event was Attakalari, Salsa Dance and Classical dance performance.

Zee Cine Awards 2011 to be held in Marina Bay Sands, Sands Grand Ballroom

2011-01-05T21:31:00.001+04:00

Come January 2011 and the Singapore’s grandest hotel property, Marina Bay Sands will be all abuzz with guests who have flown in to witness the biggest names in Bollywood — Shah Rukh Khan, Akshay Kumar, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, Arjun Rampal among many others — to be a part of Zee Cine Awards 2011. With preparations already well underway, the hotel is already a beehive of activity with people working at lightning speed to get things done in time for the grand event that is slated to be held on January 14, 2011.

The most astounding aspect in this edition of Zee Cine Awards is that the entire ceremony is not being held at a huge outdoor setting but rather indoors in the Sands Grand Ballroom which is considered to be the largest in South East Asia. It can hold a capacity of a staggering 11,000 delegates. To accommodate the larger than life set up, the stage is being custom made from scratch in a way that will ensure optimum viewing pleasure from each seat. The building designed by Moshe Safdie is grander in scale than anything that’s ever built in Singapore.

The manner in which the building interacts with the light and embraces the location it is in so that everywhere you walk, you get a view of the river, city and ocean. The sheer scale is at first overwhelming until your senses adjust and you start to appreciate the details, such as the 2561 rooms and suites, the Sands SkyPark with 150 meter infinity pool, the Art Path where Marina Bay Sands invested over tens of millions of dollars in specially commissioned art installations, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands which has 800,000 sq ft of retail and restaurant space, 7 celebrity chef restaurants, the ArtScience Musuem and 2 Broadway style theatres.

With a huge Bollywood star ensemble expected at the event, the excitement in the air is palpable amongst the staff as well as they pull out all stops to ensure that it is nothing less than a runaway success! The event is sure to be one that is infused with the opulence and grandeur of Bollywood as some of the biggest names in the industry find their way to Singapore for the occasion.

The grandeur of Marina Bay Sands is evident to every guest who has visited the resort right from movie stars to businessmen. Even King Khan (Shah Rukh Khan) was mesmerised by the grandeur of the property at his recent stay at the resort.

Even Suhashi Dhami the lead of Zee TV’s popular show ‘Yahan Main Ghar Ghar Kheli’ also couldn’t help but be awestruck by the sheer splendor of the Ballroom and the amenities provided at Marina Bay Resort. “It’s magnificient and grand! I don’t think anyone will ever leave once they set foot inside this property. I’ve yet so much to explore and I don’t mind being one of those fairytale princesses imprisoned on this island; it will be nothing but a sheer delightful experience.” Suhasi spent a wonderful time at the Marina Bay Sands recently when the show had a track that was shot in Singapore.

Set against such a breath taking backdrop, the Zee Cine Awards will leave no stone unturned to entertain viewers who get the opportunity of a lifetime to watch it live in Singapore and also for television audiences later.

Big Indian Wedding on Zee TV’s Ram Milaayi Jodi

2011-01-03T19:43:00.001+04:00

Sara Khan … Bride of the Year!

The Best of Gujarati & Punjabi Bridal Couture for  Sara Khan’s wedding on Zee TV’s Ram Milaayi Jodi.

Sara Khan's Punjabi bride look

for Ram Milaayi Jodi

The Dandiya Look

Sara Khan's Gujarati Panetar

Bride of the Year Sara Khan who recently made a national spectacle of her wedding to boyfriend Ali Merchant on a reality show in India is all set to tie the knot on television yet again – this time for her latest fiction show on Zee TV, Ram Milaayi Jodi. With her Punjabi character Mona getting married to a Gujarati chhora Anukalp, there’s a wide array of multi-cultural bridal finery in store for Sara’s nuptials. Apparently, with both families fairly insistent on having the marriage rites performed ‘their way’, we’ll soon get to see Sara first don the garb of a typical Gujarati bride and then quickly slip into the fine threads of a Punjabi dulhan with equal aplomb! Sara in the traditional white Gujarati Panetar with red Bandhni borders … Sara in a designer lehenga with the traditional Punjabi Chuda and Kaleera, viewers can look forward to a delightful extravaganza of Sara’s varied and diverse bridal couture coming up on Zee TV’s Ram Milaayi Jodi in the coming week. And can the big, fat Indian wedding be complete without some naach gaana? Not really! So, you’ll see Sara in Garba chic at a Dandiya Raas and an elaborately sequined, embroidered Punjabi suit for the Gidda. Don’t miss Mona’s shaadi to Anukalp on Sunday January 9, at 9.30pm! With Sara Khan turning up in so many different bridal looks, young brides across the country can take a lesson or two in dressing up just right for their D-day!

Zee Cinema launches Middle East beam

2010-12-30T19:16:00.002+04:00

Zee Network has recently launched the Hindi Movie channel, Zee Cinema Middle East Beam. An already premier Hindi movie channel across the world, it offers the most select Hindi movies, to diverse audiences. This launch is part of the Network's growing emphasis, on reaching out to more viewers across the globe. Viewers can expect the latest Hindi blockbusters, classics, and specialised segments on the leading stars in Bollywood from the 24-hour Hindi movie channel.

Bharat Ranga, COO, Zee International, said, "Zee Cinema has been a very successful channel for us, world over. We have an extensive library of more than 1500 titles. Unlike other movie channels that thrive on primetime shows, we offer premium movies in the morning, afternoon and evening which provides us with a very strong viewership. We believe that the distribution of this channel will give our programming and service, a distinctive and innovative edge. With a large South Asian community, Middle East, North Africa and Pakistan represents an important region for Zee. We are excited to bring our top rated events and Bollywood hits into the living rooms of viewers across these countries.”

Further the Middle East beam will add more value to the existing subscribers in the region. Zee Cinema will be available on DTH through ADD (Arab Digital Distribution’s Pehla Bouquet), on IPTV/Cable through E Vision and on IPTV through du & Qatar Telecom’s Mosaic TV. Through these initial efforts itself, the channel will be available to over 700,000 households.

Zee houses the world’s largest Hindi film library. Launched in April 1995 in India, Zee Cinema is India’s first Hindi movie channel bringing Movies.Masti.Magic to millions of audiences, worldwide, by showcasing the best of Indian Cinema. It is broadcasted 24-hours a day, airing 8 movies along with other film-based programming. With rights to the Zee Cinema library, consisting of iconic films like Sholay, Hum Aapke Hain Kaun to latest blockbusters such as Ishqiya, Aakrosh & Om Shanti Om to name a few. The library also consists of all the films of The Show Man Show – Raj Kapoor & Subhash Ghai.

Zee Cinema has taken many innovative steps towards the entertainment of its viewers, by introducing interesting break content during different day parts. It will also delve on different programming techniques of movie festivals and themes to ensure that we always have something very unique and interesting to offer to our viewers.

Some of the key properties on the channel will be Movie of the Week, Saturday Cinemax, Bollywood Brunch, Lage Raho...Ek Break Ke Saath, Twin Treat, Lights, Camera…Action, ABC – The Amitabh Bachchan Collection — The Biggest Movie Star in India. The Superstar of the Millennium! Unveiling, the biggest collection of Amitabh movies on Zee Cinema.

Manav-Archana's much-awaited consummation scene to be shot this week ...

2010-12-21T21:08:00.000+04:00

Sushant-Ankita embarrassed by co-stars constantly ribbing the duo

It's been over a year and a half that Manav and Archana have ruled the hearts of television viewers across the country as the ideal Indian middle-class couple hopelessly in love with each other. Their journey of love has been a bumpy ride choc-a-bloc with twists and turns that have separated and finally brought them back together. Now's the time for the two to finally enjoy the fruits of marital bliss. Yes, actors Sushant Rajput and Ankita Lokhande are all set to shoot a consummation scene for their gloriously successful soap Pavitra Rishta in the coming week.

Given the buzz about Sushant-Ankita's scorching off-screen chemistry, reports have it that their co-actors from the show are having a field day ribbing the two unabashedly about the upcoming bold scene.

Veteran actress Usha Nadkarni, known for her razor-sharp wit, is said to be pulling the duo's leg saying, "This scene should come rather naturally to both of you! You've been rehearsing it forever" Still other actors, not wanting to be named, have been cracking jokes to the effect that the scene will be okayed in just one take given how ‘close’ the actors are. To avoid all the embarassing teasing happening on the sets of Zee TV's Pavitra Rishta, Sushant and Ankita have apparently begun locking themselves up in their vanity vans for long spells of time, further fuelling the jokes.

Stay tuned to Pavitra Rishta every weeknight (Sunday to Thursday) at 9pm on Zee TV.

Aamir Dalvi and Anisha Kapoor to join the cast of Sanskar Laxmi

2010-12-21T19:47:00.000+04:00

Anisha Kapoor

Seems like some more well known television actors have joined the cast of Sanskar Laxmi which will soon premiere on Zee TV. The latest to have joined the ensemble cast are Aamir Dalvi who was seen in ‘Saathi Re’ and Anisha Kapoor, who was earlier seen in ‘Banoo Main teri Dulhann’. While Anisha plays the character of Ragini, a wannabe starlet who has migrated from North India to Mumbai to make it big in the TV industry; Aamir has been roped in to portray the character of Mahendra — an autistic but intelligent young man. He is an honest, simple and lovable character who finds philosophy in little day to day things in his life.

Aamir Dalvi

“To portray an autistic character is by far the most interesting and difficult role of my life. I think it’s going to be a big challenge for me to enact such a character. I’m already doing my homework and learning about autism so that I can do complete justice to the role,” says Aamir.

While Aamir is totally gung ho about depicting an autistic person, the gorgeous actress Anisha says, “My character Ragini is very grey. She is extremely manipulative and will resort to any lengths to make it big in the industry. I had many inhibitions about playing this role but after Raju Bhai’s narration, I realised the potential in my character. I really hope I’m able to live up to his expectations.”

With so many big names playing pivotal roles in the show, we wonder who will play the lead lady Laxmi..??

Zee to host the biggest Musical Extravaganza of the season

2010-12-21T19:32:00.002+04:00

Lulu Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Singing Superstar Grand Finale

Get set for a grand event on Christmas Day, as Zee TV is all geared up to end 2010 with a priceless musical experience with artists of acclaimed repute set to perform for Lulu Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Singing Superstar Grand Finale. The presence of two of the biggest musical stalwarts — Ghazal maestro Ustaad Ghulam Ali Khan and Mika Singh will surely make the evening an unforgettable experience.

Touted as the biggest musical reality show of the Entertainment Industry, this season's star-studded soiree will give the audience a taste of chartbusting Bollywood hits coupled with some western renditions, soulful Ghazals along with some fine blend of Sufi music to make the evening different yet divine.

One of the greatest names among contemporary Ghazal singers — who follows a blend of Ustad Barkat Ali and Bade Ghulam Ali Khan, Ustaad Ghulam Ali Khan will be a part of the celebrations only because of this rare young singing talent named Ranjeet Rajwada who has enthralled TV audiences all over the world. Needless to say, Ranjeet is extremely elated that he will be sharing the stage with the God of Ghazal. Punjabi Pop singer Mika Singh whose colloquial style has made him popular among the masses will also perform on some of his chartbusting numbers.

Three Finalists Abhilasha Chellum [left], Kamal Khan (centre) and Bisakh Jyoti (right)

Mugdha Hasabnis whose opera style rendition had floored the viewers will once again enthrall with her performance on the Christmas Carol with a picture perfect snowfall in front of the live audience while finalists Kamal Khan, Bisakh Jyoti and Abhilasha Chellum will add to the magic with some ever popular Bollywood and regional numbers.

"We pride ourselves in making Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Singing Superstar Grand Finale the year's most unforgettable event through our innovative design and amazing musical performances," said the Zee TV channel spokesperson. "We are extremely fortunate and excited to collaborate with such incredibly talented and powerhouse performers. It takes much skill, innovation and ability to produce an event of this magnitude and we are privileged to work with the best in the industry."

The Lulu Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Singing Superstar Grand Finale will be Live on Zee TV from 8pm onwards on Christmas Day [Saturday, Dec 25] from Andheri Sports Complex in Mumbai. So mark your calendar and be prepared to enjoy the Biggest Musical Extravaganza of the season, only on ZEE TV.

“I will only sing with Ranjeet Rajwada”

“I will only sing with Ranjeet Rajwada” says acclaimed ghazal singer Ghulam Ali for the biggest musical event Sa Ra Ga Ma Pa Singing Superstars.

Zee TV’s Lulu Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Singing Superstar Ranjeet Rajwada can be seen over the moon in joy and excitement as the ‘dream come true’ news is broken to him. The young ‘Prince of Ghazal’ is all set to take centrestage with acclaimed ghazal maestro Ghulam Ali in what promises to be music’s biggest event — Lulu’s Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Singing Superstar Grand Finale on Zee TV.

Sources tell that though they have been trying very hard to bring the maestro down to Mumbai for a while now, Ghulam Ali only agreed to fly down for the event if he will get to perform with Ranjeet Rajwada in whom he sees a young genius in the making. This very statement itself is nothing but a HUGE compliment to the seventeen-year-old who idolizes Ghulam Aliji and even sings in the same style as the master himself.

“I am extremely excited to be singing alongside the respected Ghulam Aliji,” says an overjoyed Ranjeet. “To be sharing the stage with him itself is something I have been dreaming all these years but to get an opportunity to sing with him is even better than a dream come true. I am extremely thankful to Sa Re Ga Ma Pa for giving me this opportunity and I have now started counting down the days to the 25th! Just four days more to go!” he said with a huge grin on his face.

Meet the Top three contestants of Zee TV Sa Re Ga Ma Pa

2010-12-21T19:16:00.000+04:00

Bisakh Jyoti (Kolkata), Abhilasha Chellam (Pune) and Kamaal Khan (Patiala) are the three finalists, who will duke it out for the title of the nation’s Singing Superstar.

Bisakh Jyoti

Bisakh Jyoti (Kolkata):  Full of life, energy and enthusiasm is what best describes Bisakh Jyoti. He is a complete performer who sets the stage on fire and sets the mood for future performances. Whether it was his rendition of Bheegi Bheegi or Bappida's Pag Ghungaroo, Bishakh Jyoti is one complete performer who always sports a broad smile on his face while dancing to a tune that is all his own when he is on stage. All this makes Bikash a very positive and lively singer.

Abhilasha Chellam

Abhilasha Chellam (Pune): She is the girl next door, who is sweet and easily approachable. Quiet friendly and bubbly, she is everybody's darling on sets.

However this young singer is no stranger to the big stage. She was the runner up of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Marathi and is very comfortable with pushing the limits of her vocal abilities and trying out newer types of songs. Having made her way through two reality shows and facing different expectations and ideas, she feels that her mindset has changed. She now knows what to expect and has become more focused. With the wide variety of songs that she has performed week after week and her melodious and powerful voice, Abhilasha Chellam is sure to continue enthralling audiences nationwide.

Kamaal Khan

Kamaal Khan (Patiala): A Punjabi to the hilt, Kamaal Khan (on Zee TV's Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Singing Superstar) is a performer to the core. He has been a stage performer and though he used to find it a little difficult to sing in Hindi he has proved in the last few weeks that he is not limited just to Punjabi folk as he pulled off other genres with much finesse. He is a true rock star on stage as far as body language and voice is concerned. Mentors Vishal-Shekhar were so happy with his performance on ‘Sajda’ that they asked him to lend his voice for Salman Khan in the movie ‘Tees Maar Khan’.

Kamal has been a stage performer form an early age and has also won reality shows in Delhi. His friends in Punjab have always had the confidence that he will make it big in the industry and till date they give him a call after every show and give him their feedback.

Shah Rukh Khan visits Marina Bay Sands ahead of Zee Cine Awards

2010-12-19T19:40:00.001+04:00

King Khan to perform at the star studded Zee Cine Awards - Bollywood’s Only Viewers Choice Award on January 14, 2011.

Bollywood frontliner, Shah Rukh Khan recently visited Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, the venue of Zee Cine Awards 2011. He is one among many other Bollywood A-listers like Akshay Kumar, Aishwarya, Priyanka Chopra, Deepika Padukone who will grace the event with their presence. Shahrukh Khan will be back in January for the Zee Cine Awards, a star-studded extravaganza to be held at Marina Bay Sands on January 14, 2011. The awards ceremony will bring India’s leading artistes to Singapore to recognise their accomplishments for their performances in the Indian film industry throughout the year.

When asked whether he will be performing at the awards night, Khan siad, "I'll be performing a little dance…that goes without saying if you're from Bollywood! But we're going to try and make it a little more creative, in terms of having some interactivity with the audience.... It'll be something from My Name is Khan. The songs in that film are a little more gentle, so I think they'll try and get a lot of girls to join in and make it a big event."

The reigning heartthrob stayed at a luxurious suite at the hotel and was mesmerised by the grandeur of the entire property. When asked about his experience of staying at the resort, the Bollywood actor said, "I think it's fantastic! I just spoke to my wife and told her that it is one of the most fantastic hotels I've seen. Really wonderful. I want to go up and check the SkyPark, I'll take my kids up there to swim when I come back in January".

Come January next year, Southeast Asia’s largest ballroom – Sands Grand Ballroom – will be transformed into a magnificent theatre infused with the opulence of Bollywood. To accommodate the larger-than-life setup, the stage is being custom-made from scratch and will be created for better viewing pleasure from every seat. Marina Bay Sands is ramping up preparations for this extravaganza.

Ratan Rajput and Usha Nadkarni shake a leg at Prem and Nandini’s wedding in Dil Se Diya Vachan

2010-11-27T20:51:00.001+04:00

Guess who danced at the Big fat Wedding of Prem and Nandini — apni Laliya (Ratan Rajput) of Agle Janam Mohe BItiya Hi Kijo and Savita tai (Usha Nadkarni) of Pavitra Rishta.

Going by the latest trend in the television industry, no wedding is complete without our popular actors shaking a leg in it. So, to grace Prem (Gaurav Khanna) and Nandini’s (Vandana Joshi) wedding in Dil Se Diya Vachan, Usha Nadkarni and Ratan Rajput were called in to make the festivities look a li’l more grand and special. And to everybody’s surprise, not only did the ladies from the two generations bond fabulously on the sets but also picked up the intricate dance steps like a professional.

“Laali has performed on the song ‘Mujhe Saajan Ke Ghar Jana Hai’ from the movie Lajja and despite having no prior rehearsals, she gave an astounding performance in flat 2 hours! She is undoubtedly one of the best dancers amongst the current crop of actors that we have in the Industry today. Hats off to her professionalism,” said Nandita Mehra, the director of Dil Se Diya Vachan.

“I love dancing and usually tend to get caught up in whatever music is playing” said a smiling Ratan. “It has been so much fun doing this number for Prem and Nandini.”

Also sharing the space with her on the wedding was Usha Nadkarni who performed a Lavni to the track ‘Vajle Ki Bara’ from the movie Natrang along with Jayshree T. It was a total masti time on the sets as the veteran actor gelled well with other actors like Neena Gupta and Jayshree T. Here’s wishing these celebrations mark a new and happy beginning for Prem and Nandini.

DIL TOH BACCHA HAI JI: Zarina Wahab is all set to play a child in Yahaan Main Ghar Ghar Kheli

2010-11-27T20:44:00.001+04:00

Zarina Wahab is all set to play a very challenging role in Zee TV’s Yahan Main Ghar Ghar Kheli, where she currently plays the role of Pratibha, Karan’s mother who is believed to be dead. The upcoming episodes will see her play a childlike role caused by a head injury while trying to save her daughter in law, Abha, from the wrath of the cruel Mama. Zarinaji will lose her memory and start behaving like a child in the forthcoming episodes.

Zarina Wahab is a seasoned actress with more than three decades of experience in the Film and Television industry and has played several characters with élan. “This is the first time I will be playing the role of a child and that too at this age. Its very challenging for me”, says Zarina Ji.

The character is so essayed that in a very endearing manner and audiences should love her in this role as much as they did Hrithik Roshan in Koi Mil Gaya playing the role of a developmentally disabled boy because the character demanded so. Similarly, the production team is confident that viewers would accept Zarina Ji in her upcoming avatar. Getting into the skin of a character not befitting one’s age is a Herculean task and Zarina Wahab is putting extra efforts to play this role. She is seen playing like a child during breaks or spending time in front of the mirror making childlike gestures.

While Zarina Wahab will be seen playing the role of a child, on the other hand Abha, Suhasi Dhami will be seen taking care of her mother in law like a mother. Both Suhasi and Zarinaji are actors of repute and this role reversal will help them add another dimension to their acting skills.

Tune in to Yahan Man Ghar Ghar Kheli every Sunday to Thursday at 8:30 pm on Zee TV.

King Gangadhar Rao assassinated on Jhansi Ki Rani

2010-11-27T20:34:00.000+04:00

All ardent viewers of Zee TV’s historical saga Jhansi Ki Rani will be a tad disappointed to know that Sameer Dharmadhikari, the handsome actor who plays Raja Gangadhar Rao of Jhansi will end his year-long successful stint on the show in the coming week. No, it’s not a fall-out with the production house or the channel but the plot of the show has progressed to the point where the Raja must die.

Sameer says, “It was a wonderful journey being a part of a historical show focusing on one of history’s most powerful women, a legendary figure who sparked off the Indian Revolution against British Colonialism and the struggle for Indian independence. The death of my character will mark the beginning of an extremely riveting battle between the Rani and the British. The show is slated to have a grand climax in the coming months. I am glad to have played the pivotal role of King Gangadhar Rao and will cherish every memory associated with the show.”

Despaired by the death of his innocent child, King Gangadhar Rao of Jhansi has been seen as a heartbroken man lately. In recent episodes of the show, his spirit to fight the oppressive British rulers has been crushed. His quest for azaadi (freedom) has taken a backseat as he fails to come to terms with his personal tragedy. Even as the queen holds on strong and motivates him to keep the struggle for freedom going, King Gangadhar Rao is assassinated in a brutal manner that is bound to curdle your blood. Catch all of Jhansi reeling under this monumental loss on Zee TV’s Jhansi Ki Rani at 8 PM this coming week.

Kunika Lal replaces Sudha Chandran in Sangini!!!

2010-11-03T19:15:00.000+04:00

Kunika Lal steps into Sudha Chandran’s shoe in Zee TV’s Sanjog Se Bani Sangini

When word got around that renowned dancer Sudha Chandran was joining the cast of Zee TV’s Sanjog Se Bani Sangini and that too in a role of the lead protagonist’s granny with absolutely no make-up for the first time on television, her look and character was applauded by media. Three months down the line and with the show being a primetime hit at the 10 pm time slot, Sudha has been unceremoniously dumped from the show.

Sudha Chandran

The buzz from the sets is that the lady herself has been displaying some very unlady like behaviour on the sets and driving all around up the wall. A little birdie tells us that she has been known to take off on trips out of town after confirming to the team that she will be on the sets… upsetting the entire shoot planned for the day. Just last week, the shoot was brought to a complete standstill when the team discovered that Sudha had not landed up on the sets and had instead gone to Thiruvananthapuram without giving the team any prior intimation of her departure. Apparently having signed a reality show in the South, Sudha’s tantrums have only increased.

Kunika Lal

“Sudha had been creating havoc on the sets with her highly irresponsible behavior and unprofessional attitude. You certainly do not expect a senior artiste to behave in such a way and we are tired of having to deal with it hence it’s been decided to replace her. If she doesn’t respect the sanctity of the contract that she has signed, then we certainly do not want to continue having her on the show. After giving us a confirmation for shooting with us for five days, she will only turn up for a day and that too for less than two hours. The content cannot be compromised due to this unprofessional behavior and we will get someone else immediately,” said a source from the sets who did not wish to be named.

And added, “Sudha has been very indecisive and despite umpteen requests to adhere to dates given she had become an ace in playing truant. We are not shooting with her after today. We were in talks with a lot of other actresses like Bindu, Shoma Anand, Pratima Kazmi, Sheeba Chadda, etc but there was some or the other problem with them. Finally we have zeroed on Kunika Lal. She is a wonderful actress and was very excited about the role.”

Diwali special Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Singing Superstar on Zee TV

2010-11-03T18:37:00.000+04:00

Date & Time: November 5 at 800pm

When the rest of India is in a festive mood and Diwali celebrations are in full swing, how can we not celebrate Diwali on the sets of Zee TV’s Hero Honda Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Singing Superstar. Diwali was celebrated with naach-gaana, lighting diyas, making rangolis, bursting crackers and dhamaal music. Sets looked very beautiful with colors strewn around with flowers and decorations and everyone was sporting the broad festive smile. The show started with the contestants, mentors and anchor singing and wishing viewers ‘Happy Diwali’. Sajid-Wajid donned the hat of ‘Diwali Santa’. They brought gifts for all the contestants and Sajid Bhai went a step further and paid extra attention to his attire. He was dressed in crisp white dhoti and kurta with all different variety of crackers embroidered in the front and HAPPY DIWALI written in bold on the back. On his innovative kurta, Sajid Bhai said, “Bas maachis jalane ki der hai, I will take off like a rocket”.

Shekhar gave another reason for the girls to ogle at their TV screens. He looked dapper dressed in a green sherwani and Vishal Dadlani kept aside his rock star image for the day and came dressed in traditional Diwali attire. Well the interesting point is that this is for the first time anyone has ever seen Vishal wearing anything apart from round neck tees and jeans. Not only this but Vishal also got home cooked delicacies and sweets for everyone. He said, “The contestants who are not from Mumbai crave for homemade food all the time and I thought this will be an apt Diwali gift for them.”

Every performance was rocking and reflected the spirit of festivity. Watch the Diwali special episode on Zee TV’s Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Singing Superstar, November 5 at 800pm.

Akshay and Ash celebrate Diwali with Zee TV

2010-11-02T18:10:00.001+04:00

‘Action Replayy Dhinchak Diwali’ at 9.30pm on Nov. 6

Zee TV’s Diwali Extravaganza has a ‘Retro’ twist this year! Bringing in the festival of lights with a three-hour bounty of non-stop, pure and unadulterated, complete family entertainment at 9.30pm on Saturday, November 6 2010, Zee TV presents ‘Action Replayy Dhinchak Diwali’ — a star-studded evening with crackling performances by the cast of the forthcoming film Action Replayy and a bevy of Zee TV’s own stars. With Aishwarya Rai, Akshay Kumar and Neha Dhupia setting the stage afire, this one’s going to be a ‘Zor Ka Jhatka’ you don’t wanna miss. After all, it’s not very often that Ash shakes a leg for a television show!

And it just gets bigger and better from here! With a very hip ‘retro’ theme, the evening will have all your favourite Zee TV actors dressed up in retro-chic, dancing to all-time favourite chartbusters. So you’ll have Sushant Rajput and Ankita Lokhande bringing alive Amitabh-Rekha’s Silsila magic with Ye Kahan Aa Gaye Hum, and the dancing stars of DID reviving the 80’s Disco fever with superhits like I am a Disco Dancer, Om Shanti Om and Saara Zamana. And that’s not all … the bonanza of dance continues with spectacular acts by Binny Sharma, Jay Bhanushali, Sayantani Ghosh and Jasveer Kaur and many more of your favourite stars. Adding a soulful musical touch to the proceedings will be the finalists of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Singing Superstar! The evening will be peppered with humour by witty hosts Manish Paul, Rajpal Yadav, Shruti Seth and Ranvijay Singh.

With a show packed with such kick-ass performances coming up at 9.30pm on Saturday, November 6 2010, it’s time to put a red cross against the date on your calendar and stay glued to the tube!

Dil Se Diya …Vachchan a new show on Zee TV from Oct. 19

2010-10-09T14:48:00.001+04:00

Ab ek Saas nibhayegi maa ka dharm

(The mother in-law shall take on the duties of a mother now)

After marriage, it’s every girl’s dream to get a mother in her mother-in-law! Zee TV’s upcoming offering this month Dil Se Diya…Vachan is a gripping and endearing story that showcases a powerful true life story about the deep love, trust, bonding and attachment between a mother-in-law and a daughter-in-law. The lead protagonist Dr Kalyani looks after her Bahu (Daughter in-law), Nandini as if she were her own daughter. Dil Se Diya…Vachan will definitely redefine and create a new vision regarding the relationship of a saas and bahu on Indian television (Mother in-law and Daughter in-law). The positive side of the relationship and the heartwarming storytelling of Dil Se Diya…Vachan will be one that will set trends amongst fiction shows on Indian television.

In most cultures the mother-in-law and daughter-in-law relationship is expected to be filled with thorny tensions. In striking contrast is the mother – daughter in-law relationship described in Dil Se Diya…Vachan. It’s a story of a caring, supportive in-law relationship between Dr Kalyani and Nandini. It’s an emotional and poignant struggle between family members as a mother-in-law always stands by her daughter- in-law. Theirs will surely be a model of an ideal in-law relationship.

Produced by Pintoo Guha and Harsh Dave’s Film Farm Pvt Ltd, Dil Se Diya…Vachan will be an addictive and heart-warming family drama, with rich production values and a talented cast. Guha and Dave bring in more than 30 years of experience in the business of entertainment and film production. The cast includes Neena Gupta, Ayub Khan amongst others. As the lead protagonists who would enact the roles of saas and bahu trying to piece together a mysterious past, they will take on a life and death journey with just mutual respect and love between themselves to enjoy their wonderful relationship at all times.

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