Category Archives: Entertainment

Dhurandhar 2 and Ranveer Singh drive Micro Wellness’ entertainment-led brand strategy for DOLO Pain Relief Spray

Bengaluru, Mar 30: Micro Wellness, the wellness division of Micro Labs Limited, has partnered with Dhurandhar 2, a major 2026 action release starring Ranveer Singh, to promote its flagship product, DOLO Pain Relief Spray. The collaboration reflects the brand’s strategy to leverage high-impact entertainment to connect with India’s active and aspirational consumers.

 Built around the theme “The Unstoppable Indian”, the campaign draws from the film’s narrative of resilience and determination, aligning with Micro Wellness’ mission to deliver fast, effective pain relief for action-ready lifestyles. The brand aims to position itself as a trusted companion for individuals pushing through physically demanding routines.

The campaign will roll out nationwide across multiple geographies — Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada —to maximize reach and engagement. A digital activation, #PainReliefKaDhurandhar, will invite consumers to share their stories of grit and perseverance, driving meaningful interaction, especially among younger audiences.

Commenting on the partnership, Ms. Diya Surana, Head – Micro Wellness, said:

 “Our collaboration with Dhurandhar 2 celebrates the unstoppable spirit of today’s India. With DOLO Pain Relief Spray, we aim to empower individuals to stay active, resilient, and unstoppable.”

Amid rising demand for convenient, on-demand pain relief driven by increasingly active lifestyles, Micro Wellness expects this high-impact collaboration to significantly enhance brand visibility, deepen consumer trust, and drive strong double-digit growth across key markets.

Aditya Rikhari, Kutle Khan and Ravator Set the Tone for Coke Studio Bharat Season 4 with Ae Ajnabee

Mar 25: Coke Studio Bharat, the platform celebrating India’s diverse musical heritage, kicks off Season 4 with its first track, Ae Ajnabee, a song about the one feeling that never goes out of style: longing. Featuring the warm, effortless charm of Aditya Rikhari alongside the evocative artistry of folk maestro Kutle Khan and Ravator’s production, the track is a conversation between eras, between the love that was written in letters and the love that lives in unsent messages.

 Ae Ajnabee explores the simple yet universal truth, that while the language of love has changed, the ache beneath it remains the same. From the quiet of stolen glances and handwritten poetry to the restlessness of late-night texts and almost-confessions, the song traces longing across time without choosing sides. It doesn’t romanticize the past or rush toward the present, it lets both coexist, breath by breath.

Musically, the track mirrors this emotional bridge. Folk-rooted melody and contemporary pop find each other naturally here, shaping a track that carries tradition while breathing in the present. Rikhari anchors the song in the relatable and the real, while Kutle Khan brings a local depth and soulfulness that feels as old as longing itself. Ravator ties these worlds together, giving the track a finish that feels new, while keeping everything that matters intact. The result is a song that sits comfortably with someone who grew up on soulful melodies and someone discovering love for the very first time.

Shantanu Gangane, IMX (Integrated Marketing Experience) Lead, Coca-Cola India and Southwest Asia, said,

“Indian music today is not confined to one lane. Listeners move between folk, indie, electronic and many more genres. With Ae Ajnabee, Coke Studio Bharat bridges generations, cultures and sonics.

We are excited to have opened the season with the extremely talented teen heartthrob Aditya Rikhari whose fandom combined with folk maestro Kutle Khan’s roots celebrates the very core of Coke Studio Bharat. DJ Ravator has done an amazing job at bringing these 2 diverse worlds into one melting pot that marks the start of Coke Studio Bharat 4.”

Aditya Rikhari said, “Ae Ajnabee captures a feeling many of us have experienced. Wanting someone, missing someone, and not always having the words for it. What stands out to me is that the song doesn’t try to over-explain that emotion; it simply allows it to exist. Coke Studio Bharat gave us the space to approach it honestly and believe that truth is what listeners will respond to.”

Kutle Khan said, “Folk music has always carried the history of longing, it is built from it. With Ae Ajnabee, we weren’t trying to recreate something old, we were letting something old speak in a new voice. That, to me, is what music should do, and Coke Studio Bharat created a space where that conversation is possible.”

Ravator said, “This song felt very instinctive from the start. For me, the approach to production was simple. Protect the emotion at the centre of the track. Aditya and Kutle Khan brought so much feeling to it that I just followed that energy. It was about listening carefully and building around what was already there.”

In opening with Ae Ajnabee, Season 4 reminds listeners that while sounds evolve, emotions endure. The journey ahead continues to explore those shared truths through voices that define today and traditions that shaped yesterday.

Masked Traditions Come Alive: Himachal’s Ancient Raulane Festival Goes Viral

Raulane Festival of Himachal Pradesh: A Centuries-Old Himalayan Tradition Celebrating Faith, Nature and Community

Bright and colourful images from Himachal Pradesh have recently gone viral on social media, drawing attention to the Raulane Festival, an ancient winter ritual celebrated in the Kinnaur district. The visuals—featuring masked performers, traditional costumes, and symbolic rituals—have sparked widespread curiosity about this unique cultural tradition rooted in Himalayan belief systems.

A Sacred Winter Festival of Kinnaur

The Raulane Festival is a deeply spiritual and culturally significant winter celebration observed in remote villages of Kinnaur. It is dedicated to “Saunis”, celestial fairies believed in local tradition to be gentle, radiant beings who protect villagers during harsh winters.

According to local belief, these divine beings provide warmth, guidance, and protection when life becomes difficult in the extreme Himalayan climate.

Symbolic Marriage Ritual: Raula and Raulane

One of the most fascinating aspects of the festival is its symbolic marriage ritual. During the celebration, two men are chosen to represent the divine couple:

• The Raula (groom)
• The Raulane (bride)

They are believed to act as spiritual vessels for the Saunis. This ritual is not a real marriage but a symbolic performance representing divine unity and protection.

The participants wear heavy traditional woollen clothing suited for the cold Himalayan weather. Their faces are fully covered with masks, and their hands are gloved, giving the ritual a mysterious and sacred appearance.

The Raulane, representing the bride figure, is dressed in elaborate attire with decorative ornaments, traditional jewellery, and detailed headgear, transforming the performer into a ritual identity rather than an individual.

Ritual Dance and Village Participation

A key highlight of the festival is a slow, meditative ritual dance performed at the Nagin Narayan Temple, one of the important spiritual centres in the region. The movement is calm and symbolic, reflecting devotion and spiritual connection.

The entire village takes part in prayers, gatherings, and celebrations, making the festival a deeply communal event rather than an individual ritual.

Cultural and Spiritual Importance

The Raulane Festival is not just a celebration—it is a living expression of Himalayan heritage. It plays a vital role in:

• Preserving ancient oral traditions and folklore
• Strengthening community bonding in remote mountain villages
• Honouring nature-based spiritual beliefs
• Maintaining cultural identity in harsh geographical conditions

Local traditions suggest that the festival may be thousands of years old, with some accounts estimating its origins to be nearly 5,000 years old, though this remains part of oral belief rather than documented history.

Why the Festival Is Trending Now

The festival has recently gained global attention due to:

• Viral social media images and videos
• Unique masked performances and costumes
• Curiosity about Himalayan spiritual traditions
• Increased interest in cultural and heritage tourism

Travel enthusiasts and cultural observers are now highlighting Kinnaur as a destination rich in untouched traditions and deep-rooted beliefs.

Conclusion

The Raulane Festival stands as a powerful reminder of India’s diverse cultural heritage. In the remote mountains of Himachal Pradesh, traditions like these continue to thrive, blending faith, mythology, and community life.

Beyond its striking visuals, the festival reflects a deeper message—of harmony between humans, nature, and spirituality, preserved through generations in the heart of the Himalayas.

Kubbra Sait opens up about portraying Parveen and sharing the screen space with Nana Patekar in Amazon MX Player’s Sankalp

Mumbai, Mar 24: Amazon MX Player, India’s leading free, premium, ad-supported video streaming service, recently launched Sankalp, a gripping socio-political thriller that navigates the intricate intersections of power, mentorship, and ideology. Directed by National Award-Winning Filmmaker Prakash Jha and produced by PJP Productions in partnership with Jio Studios, the series is headlined by Nana Patekar alongside a powerhouse cast featuring Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Kubbra Sait,Neeraj Kabi, Sanjay Kapoor, and Kranti Prakash Jha in pivotal roles. Set against the backdrop of institutional influence and rising ambition, the series delves into the evolving dynamics between mentor and mentee, and how conviction, loyalty, and authority shape those driven to lead and create change.

 Reflecting on her character Parveen, Kubbra Sait  shares insight into the emotional and moral complexities of the role:

“Parveen is raised within a very strong value system. In her world, only the destined or the truly gifted stand a chance of entering the system. But the battle between personal conscience and the system never really disappears. What drew me to Parveen was her unwavering moral compass , despite the environment she’s shaped by. She believes she can transform the system from within, but gradually realises that the system, in turn, begins to reshape her. That inner conflict made Parveen incredibly compelling for me to portray as an actor.”

Speaking about her experience of working alongside the veteran actor Nana Patekar, Kubbra adds,

“I shared most of my scenes with Nana Saab, who is truly an institution himself. Acting alongside him felt like a masterclass every single day. What stayed with me was his discipline. He would meticulously handwrite all his lines and rehearse them before every scene. Watching someone of his stature approach the craft with that much sincerity was incredibly inspiring. Also, on a lighter note Nana Sir might be the best cook ever —I would like to believe I come in a close second when it comes to biryani.”

With Sankalp now streaming for free on Amazon MX Player, audiences can expect an intense socio-political thriller that explores the fine line between belief, ambition, and the pursuit of power.

Poland Announced as Focus Country for Habitat International Film Festival 2027

New Delhi, Mar 23: The 2026 edition of the Habitat International Film Festival (HIFF) drew to a resounding close with the screening of the acclaimed Polish biographical film Chopin, Chopin, marking a fitting finale to a vibrant celebration of global cinema.

The closing evening was attended by distinguished guests and cinema enthusiasts, culminating in a deeply moving cinematic experience that resonated strongly with the audience. Chopin, Chopin received a standing ovation, underscoring its powerful impact and the audience’s appreciation for its artistic and emotional depth.

(L to R) H.E. Dr. Piotr Świtalski, Prof (Dr.) K G Suresh, Dr. Mariann Erdo, Ms. Małgorzata Wejsis-Gołębiak

On the occasion, Prof. (Dr.) K G Suresh, Director of the India Habitat Centre, made a significant announcement, declaring Poland as the Focus Country for the 2027 edition of the Habitat International Film Festival. The announcement reflects the growing cultural collaboration between India and Poland and builds upon the success of this year’s Polish showcase, including the Andrzej Wajda centenary retrospective.

As part of the closing ceremony, Prof. Suresh felicitated His Excellency Dr. Piotr Antoni Świtalski, Head of Mission of Poland to India, and Ms. Małgorzata Wejsis-Gołębiak, Director of the Polish Institute, in recognition of their continued efforts in fostering cultural exchange and strengthening Indo-Polish ties.

HIFF 2026 featured a diverse and engaging lineup of films from across the world, along with retrospectives, discussions, and special events that brought together filmmakers, scholars, and audiences in a shared celebration of cinema.

The festival’s successful conclusion reaffirms the India Habitat Centre’s commitment to promoting meaningful cultural dialogue through the medium of film, while setting the stage for an exciting and expanded edition in 2027 with Poland in focus.  

Swaranjali Delhi Presents “Swar–Dhwani Festival 2026” in Collaboration with Dhwani Foundation

New Delhi, India/Mar 20– Swaranjali Delhi, in collaboration with Dhwani Foundation, is delighted to announce the much-anticipated “Swar–Dhwani Festival 2026”, a grand celebration of Indian classical music bringing together some of the finest maestros and emerging talents on a single मंच.

Scheduled for Sunday, 19th April 2026, the festival will take place at the prestigious Muktadhara Auditorium, located within Banga Sanskriti Bhawan (18-19, Bhai Vir Singh Marg, Sector 2, Gole Market, New Delhi – 110001). The event will run from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM, offering an immersive day-long musical experience.

The festival will commence with a soulful Vandana by the disciples of Shri Partha Sarathi Lenka, setting a devotional tone for the evening. The program features an exceptional lineup of renowned artists across diverse classical genres:

• Flute: Shri Aanjaneya Joshi

• Santoor: Pt. Raj Kumar Majumdar

• Vocal: Pt. Ashish Narayan Tripathi

• Sitar: Pt. Smarajit Sen

• Vocal Duet: Dr. Prabhakar Kashyap & Dr. Diwakar Kashyap

• Tabla Solo: Pt. Biplab Bhattacharya

Accompanying Artists:

• Tabla: Pt. Subh Maharaj, Ustad Babar Latif, Shri Shubhendu Das, Shri Rudraksha Shrivastava

• Harmonium: Pt. Vinay Mishra & Shri Lalit Sisodia

“Swar–Dhwani Festival 2026” aims to celebrate the richness of Indian classical traditions while fostering cultural exchange and appreciation among audiences of all ages. The event promises an enriching confluence of melody, rhythm, and artistry.

You are cordially invited to be part of this musical journey.

RSVP:
Swaranjali Delhi | Dhwani Foundation
Website: www.swaranjali.org

Satyaa Sachee Actress Aanandita Sahoo Reveals How She Stays Cool During Hot Weather

Swaranjali Delhi and Dhwani Foundation Present Swar Dhwani Festival 2026 – A Grand Celebration of Indian Classical Music in New Delhi

New Delhi, India | Mar 14:  Swaranjali Delhi, in collaboration with Dhwani Foundation, will present Swar Dhwani Festival 2026 on Sunday, April 19, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Muktadhara Auditorium, Banga Sanskriti Bhawan, 18–19, Bhai Vir Singh Marg, Sector 2, Gole Market, New Delhi.

The festival will feature a series of vocal and instrumental performances by noted artists. The program includes a vocal presentation by The Shriram Millennium School, followed by a vocal performance by Pt. Ashish Narayan Tripathi and a sitar recital by Pt. Smarajit Sen.

The event will also present a vocal duet by Dr. Prabhakar Kashyap and Dr. Diwakar Kashyap, along with a flute performance by Shri Aanjaneya Joshi and a santoor recital by Pt. Raj Kumar Majumdar. The festival will further feature a tabla solo by Pt. Biplab Bhattacharya.

The performances will be supported by co-artists Pt. Shubh Maharaj, Pt. Vinay Mishra, Ustad Babar Latif, Shri Lalit Sisodia, Shri Shubhendu Das, and Shri Rudraksha Shrivastava.

Event Name: Swar Dhwani Festival 2026
Date: Sunday, April 19, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Venue: Muktadhara Auditorium, Banga Sanskriti Bhawan, 18-19, Bhai Vir Singh Marg, Sector 2, Gole Market, New Delhi

RSVP & Contact:
Swaranjali Delhi | Dhwani Foundation
Phone: 9910300319 | 9873003625
Website: www.swaranjali.org

Media Partner: Shreyas Webmedia Solutions Pvt. Ltd.

International Women’s Day 2026_&TV Artists Embraces Every Role a Woman Plays with Give To Gain

This International Women’s Day, &TV celebrates the many roles women play in their lives with the inspiring theme #GiveToGain. The campaign highlights the idea that when women give—whether it is love, mentorship, strength, or opportunity—they gain growth, resilience, and purpose in return.

A woman navigates countless roles through her lifetime, balancing responsibilities while nurturing dreams—both her own and those of others. Reflecting this powerful journey, &TV’s leading ladies Akshaya Naik, Priyamvada Kant, Geetanjali Mishra, and Shilpa Shinde share their personal perspectives on what #GiveToGain means to them.

Akshaya Naik, who plays Eena in &TV’s upcoming show Hey Bhagwaan – Kitna Badal Gaya Insaan, says, “As an actor, my days are long and demanding, but beyond the camera, I am also a daughter, a friend, and someone who values personal relationships deeply. Being a woman means constantly shifting roles—from memorising scripts on set to being emotionally present for my family. I have realised that every time I give my time, patience, or encouragement to someone, I grow stronger within. #GiveToGain resonates with me because when we support another woman’s dreams, we gain collective strength. This Women’s Day, I want to inspire young girls to break barriers and believe they are capable of anything.”

Sharing her thoughts, Priyamvada Kant, who portrays Latika in Gharwali Pedwali, says, “In my life, I play many roles—an actor committed to her craft, a daughter responsible toward her family, and a woman constantly learning and evolving. There are days when balancing everything feels overwhelming, but that is where a woman’s true strength lies. For me, #GiveToGain means giving kindness, guidance, and opportunities whenever possible. When we uplift another woman, we gain confidence and unity. Empowerment begins when we stand by each other.”

Reflecting on the significance of the theme, Geetanjali Mishra, who plays Rajesh in Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, shares, “Being a woman means wearing multiple hats effortlessly. On-screen, I bring laughter to audiences, but off-screen, I am a daughter who draws inspiration from her mother’s resilience and strength. I have seen how much women give emotionally and physically to keep their families together. #GiveToGain reminds me that while we give so much, we also gain wisdom, courage, and the ability to inspire others. This Women’s Day, let us give education to girls, respect to women in every field, and encouragement to those who doubt themselves because every small act of support creates lasting change.”

Adding to the celebration, Shilpa Shinde, who plays Angoori Bhabi in Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai!, says, “Over the years, I have balanced my career, personal life, and social responsibilities, and I truly believe that being a woman is about embracing every role with heart and determination. We are caregivers at home, professionals at work, and pillars of strength for our loved ones. Sometimes we forget to acknowledge how much we handle every day. I am proud to be part of &TV’s ‘Selfie Lo. Shine Karo. Star Ban Jaao!’ campaign this Women’s Day. It encourages women to pause, click a selfie at the special crown mirror installation, and see themselves as confident, independent, and powerful. A simple moment of self-celebration can turn into a star moment. When women share experiences, mentor others, or simply offer support, we create a powerful circle of empowerment.”

Tune in to &TV every Monday to Friday to enjoy your favourite shows—Hey Bhagwaan – Kitna Badal Gaya Insaan, Happu Ki Ultan Paltan at 9:30 PM, Gharwali Pedwali at 10:00 PM, and Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai! at 10:30 PM. Viewers can also stream all episodes anytime on ZEE5.

Omaxe Curates Ludhiana’s First Holi Sundowner, Draws Enthusiastic Response

Ludhiana: Leading real estate developer Omaxe Group recently curated Ludhiana’s first-ever Holi Sundowner, presenting a structured and experience-led celebration that brought together music, colours, and curated hospitality in a secure and vibrant setting.

 Held between 2 PM and 8 PM, the afternoon-to-evening event offered a refreshing alternative to conventional Holi gatherings. Designed as a limited-access celebration, the event followed an exclusive 1500-ticket entry-only format, ensuring controlled attendance and a comfortable ambience for all participants.

The Holi Sundowner witnessed a lively turnout, with live DJ performances energising the atmosphere throughout the evening. Carefully organised colour play segments kept the festive spirit alive, while dedicated hospitality zones and curated food and beverage offerings elevated the overall guest experience. The organisers also prioritised streamlined entry management and strict security protocols, ensuring the celebration proceeded smoothly and safely.

The initiative reflects a growing preference among urban audiences for responsibly managed and thoughtfully curated festive celebrations that combine enjoyment with comfort and exclusivity. The format allowed guests to celebrate Holi in a well-organised environment, adding a distinctive experience to Ludhiana’s evolving social calendar.

Commenting on the occasion, Jatin Goel, Executive Director, Omaxe Group, said:

“Celebrations today are increasingly centred around experience and comfort. Our endeavour was to create a platform where people could come together in a vibrant yet well-managed environment. The encouraging response reinforces the demand for curated and secure festive formats.”

With its limited-access concept, vibrant ambience, and seamless execution, the Holi Sundowner concluded on a high note, setting a refined benchmark for future experiential gatherings in the city.