Category Archives: Entertainment

Actors Reflect on the Values Instilled While Growing Up in Joint Families

Joint families are more than just a household. They are a way of life that fosters shared values, deep bonds, and lifelong memories. From learning the art of compromise to finding strength in unity, growing up in such close-knit families teaches lessons that shape who we become. On International Family Day, &TV artists reflect on the deep-rooted values instilled in them while being raised in joint families. These include Smita Sable (Dhaniya, Bheema), Sonal Panwar (Malaika, Happu Ki Ultan Paltan), and Vidisha Srivastava (Anita Bhabhi, Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai). Smita Sable, aka Dhaniya from Bheema, shares, “Growing up in a joint family of twelve taught me the true meaning of unity and sharing. Our mealtimes were split into two rounds because we could not all fit at the table together, but those meals were the heart of our day. They were filled with laughter, stories, and a sense of belonging. That environment taught me how important it is to relate to those around you. Even today, on the sets of Bheema, I make sure to eat with my co-actors. We laugh, we bond, and it feels just like home. I firmly believe that togetherness strengthens every bond and that’s a value I carry with me wherever I go.”

Sonal Panwar, aka Malaika from Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, adds, “Life in a joint family was my first school of values. My cousins were my best friends; we played, fought, and celebrated every moment together. Whether it was playing cricket in the lanes or sleeping under the stars during power cuts, those moments taught me that joy multiplies when shared. Even now, that sense of belonging drives me. In Mumbai, I have found friends who feel like family, and I am always available for them. On set, too, we play games and look out for each other. Being raised in a joint family taught me how to nurture relationships, and that’s a lesson for life.” Vidisha Srivastava, aka Anita Bhabhi from Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai, reflects, “Joint family life gave me a foundation of unconditional support. Sure, we fought over things like the TV remote or who got the last snack, but when it came to being there for one another, we stood as one. That experience taught me to be a dependable presence for the people I love. Today, I apply those values in every relationship, be it family, friends, or colleagues. If someone close to me needs help or support, I show up, no questions asked. That spirit of solidarity, loyalty, and love is the legacy of my joint family upbringing.”

Watch Bheema at 8:30 PM, Happu Ki Ultan Paltan at 10:00 PM, and Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai at 10:30 PM—Monday to Friday, only on &TV!

Tension Talent and Twists Realme Hip Hop India Season 2 Now Streaming on Amazon MX Player

MUMBAI, India– May 15, 2025: Amazon MX Player – Amazon’s free video streaming continues to set the stage ablaze with its high-octane dance reality series – Realme Hip Hop India Season 2. This week, the legendary Dharmesh Sir is back to infusing his swift moves as the guest judge, injecting his signature moves and infectious energy back to the dance floor. With the pressure peaking, the hunt for India’s next hip hop superstar heats up— the second finalist will be revealed, setting the stage for an epic finale. Don’t miss the jaw-dropping performances, dramatic moments as the journey intensifies!

This week’s promo opens with a shocking twist — Remo D’Souza announces that the grand finale will feature a showdown of the Top 4, leaving the contestants stunned. As the news sinks in, the atmosphere grows thick with tension, emotions run wild, and rivalries hit breaking point. As the announcement of the second finalist hangs in the balance, it now carries the weight of a dream. Just when the stakes couldn’t feel higher, Dharmesh Yelande steps off the judges’ panel and onto the stage, unleashing a powerful performance that leaves everyone speechless: Who will rise, who will fall, and who will dance their way to the top? Don’t miss what’s next!

From electrifying face-offs and surprise appearances to unforgettable musical moments, Realme Hip Hop India Season 2 continues to raise the bar. Season 2 is now streaming exclusively on Amazon MX Player, available on the Amazon shopping app, Prime Video, Fire TV, and Connected TVs.

Monika Panwar Receives an IMDb STARmeter Award

MUMBAI, India— May 15, 2025— IMDb, the world’s most popular and authoritative source for information on movies, TV shows, and celebrities, presented an IMDb “Breakout Star” STARmeter Award to Khauf star Monika Panwar. The award recognizes strong performers on the Popular Indian Celebrities list published every Monday on the IMDb app. The list charts the page views of the more than 250 million monthly visitors to IMDb worldwide, and has proven to be a keenly accurate predictor of stars who are about to have a breakthrough career moment.

Monika Panwar

Panwar stars in the horror web series Khauf, streaming on Prime Video, where she essays the role of Madhu, a young woman who moves to Delhi from her hometown in Gwalior. The series has received critical acclaim and has been praised by fans for its gripping narrative and impactful performances, receiving a rating of 7.5/10 by IMDb customers. Following the show’s success, Panwar has ranked in the top 10 of Popular Indian Celebrities list twice, including reaching the No. 2 spot two weeks ago. Panwar’s earlier credits include Jamtara: Sabka Number Ayega, Choona, and Gaanth: Chapter One: Jamnaa Paar.

“I am a big, big fan of IMDb,” shared Monika Panwar. “For me, cinema and IMDb have always gone hand in hand. So, this is a very special award, and my first as an actor. I believe the most important thing is when your work reaches people and they resonate with it. Since this award is fan-driven, I’m so glad they felt connected with my character in Khauf and have given so much love to our show. I’m very grateful for this.”

View the award presentation video here. IMDb customers can also add films and shows from Panwar’s filmography and other titles to their IMDb Watchlist at imdb.com/watchlist.

Previous IMDb “Breakout Star” STARmeter Award recipients include Zahan Kapoor, Kani Kusruti, Sharvari, Nitanshi Goel, Bhuvan Arora, Adarsh Gourav, Ashley Park, Ayo Edebiri, and Regé-Jean Page. Learn more about the IMDb STARmeter Awards at imdb.com/starmeterawards.

Sonal Panwar: Acting Found Me Before I Found It

Sometimes, destiny scripts the best stories and for &TV’s young and talented actor Sonal Panwar, it could not be truer. Today, she is winning hearts as Inspector Malaika in Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, a tough, disciplined, and level-headed police officer who is known for her values and serves as the rare voice of reason in the quirky Singh household. Looking back at how her acting journey began, Sonal Panwar aka Malaika shares,“Acting, quite literally, happened to me by chance. A few years ago, a friend who was directing an episode for a crime show called me last minute to fill in for a role. At that point, becoming an actor was not even on my radar. I was just helping out. But the moment I stepped onto the set, something clicked. The buzz of the camera, the lights, the team working coordinated, it all felt surreal. People are getting your makeup done, offering you water, and everyone is so focused. I thought to myself, ‘Wow, this is what being an actor feels like?’ That spontaneous moment changed everything for me.” But the road ahead was not all glamorous. She adds, “Of course, the journey was not as dreamy as that first day. I had to audition relentlessly before anything substantial came my way. Eventually, I landed a role in a web series alongside one of my favourite actors, Richa Chadha. I will be honest—I was more of a fangirl on set than a co-actor! But those early experiences taught me a lot and gave me the confidence I needed to take on bigger roles.

 Speaking about her experience joining Happu Ki Ultan Paltan and stepping into the shoes of Malaika, Sonal recalls, “My journey to this show was extremely smooth. It genuinely wanted to come home. I already knew most of the cast and crew because I had worked with them on another show from the same production house. Although I joined the show later and replaced another actor in the role, the transition was seamless thanks to the support and guidance of my director and co-actors.” For Sonal, Inspector Malaika is more than just a character, “I love being part of this show and playing Inspector Malaika. For me, she is not just another role, she reflects grit, groundedness, and girl power. Playing Malaika is empowering. She is bold, fair, speaks her mind, and knows how to stand tall in the middle of household madness.”

Suraj Pratap Singh Opens Up About Bagging His First Lead Role in Sun Neo’s Divya Prem: Pyaar Aur Rahasya Ki Kahani: I feel it is Mahadev’s blessing

Actor Suraj Pratap Singh, who has previously charmed audiences in TV shows, web series and music videos, is on cloud nine after bagging his first lead role in Sun Neo’s Divya Prem: Pyaar Aur Rahasya Ki Kahani.

Expressing his excitement, Suraj shared, “I’ve been thrilled about this show ever since I read the script. I knew I had to land this role, so I practiced non-stop for the mock shoots — even used my ring light as a co-actor! After doing three mock shoots, I went to the temple with my mom, and the priest gave me a rudraksha. Right after that, I got the call saying I was selected! I honestly feel like it is Mahadev’s blessing. Even though only the teaser is out so far, I can’t contain my excitement — I’m just over the moon!

He added, “Being chosen for this role feels like a dream come true, and I’m so excited to bring this character to life. This is a new chapter for me, and I can’t wait for the audience to see what we’ve been working on. The love story, the mystery, everything about the show feels special — I’m beyond grateful for this opportunity.”

Sun Neo recently revealed the teaser for Divya Prem: Pyaar aur Rahasya Ki Kahani, instantly creating a buzz with its intriguing visuals. The teaser unveiled the faces of the lead pair, Megha Ray and Suraj Pratap Singh, sparking curiosity and excitement among viewers. It hints at a narrative filled with love, destiny, and hidden mysteries, while the powerful imagery of Mahakal sets a divine tone, drawing the audience into a world of magic and suspense.

Battleground ends with a bang as Rounak Gulia from Abhishek Malhan’s team and Rajat Dalal team’s Nikhil Singh lift the trophy on Amazon MX Player

MUMBAI, India–May 13, 2025: The stage was set, the stakes were sky-high, and emotions ran deep on Amazon MX Player, Amazon’s free video streaming service, as Battleground came to a powerful close. Standing tall at the finish line were Rounak Gulia and Nikhil Singh, who emerged as the ultimate winners in female and male category respectively. With the guidance of super-mentor Shikhar Dhawan and mentors, Abhishek Malhan, Rubina Dilaik, Neeraj Goyat, and Rajat Dalal, while testing physical endurance, mental strategy, and emotional resilience, the grand finale was an explosive conclusion to weeks of high-octane drama.

Launched as a one-of-a-kind fitness reality show, Battleground struck a chord with young audiences across the country. The finale week pulled out all the stops, with nail-biting showdowns, shifting alliances, and heartfelt emotional moments that defined the true spirit of the show. From over-the-top tasks to game-changing powerplays, Rounak Gulia from Delhi Dominators and Nikhil Singh from Haryana Bulls, consistently delivered standout performances. In the final stretch, Rounak defeated Nisha in a gripping face-off, while Nikhil outplayed Raja in a clash of titans, both securing their place as ‘INDIA’s first ultimate FITNESS SUPERSTAR’.

Abhishek Malhan, who guided his team through the toughest challenges, expressed immense pride, “I’m so proud of Rounak and the entire Delhi Dominators team. Their dedication, camaraderie, and tireless effort made them stand out every step of the way. Rounak has proven that no obstacle is too big when you have the heart to fight. The entire team gave their best, and I couldn’t be prouder to have shared this journey with them.”

Talking about his team’s journey and the show, Rajat Dalal, shared, “This season of Battleground has been nothing short of extraordinary, and watching Team Haryana Bulls evolve through every challenge has been incredibly fulfilling. Nikhil’s win is a proud moment for all of us, but it’s not just about one individual. It’s about the resilience, unity, and hunger that our team showed throughout the season. Battleground gave us a stage, but my team gave it heart. I’m proud of every single one of them for representing Haryana Bulls with such fire.”

Rounak Gulia, sharing her emotions after her hard-earned victory, said, “I’ve given everything to this journey, every ounce of sweat, every second of doubt. But today, standing as the winner, I feel all of that was worth it. A massive thank you to Abhishek Sir for pushing me beyond my limits and teaching me that true strength comes from within. His mentorship shaped me into the competitor I am today. I walked in here as a challenger and I leave as a champion.”

Nikhil Singh, who secured his win in a gripping finale duel against Raja, reflected on his victory, “This journey has been a game-changer for me, not just as a competitor but as a person. The tasks were gruelling, and there were moments when I doubted whether I could make it, but Rajat Sir taught me the value of staying calm under pressure. This win is a tribute to everything I’ve learned, my team’s relentless support, and my belief in myself. It’s truly an unforgettable moment.”

‘TANDANANA’, hosted by Padmasri Awardee Dr. Shobha Raju, to celebrate the soul of Annamacharya through a Global Music Contest

Hyderabad, 12th May 2025: Annamacharya Bhavana Vahini (ABV) announced the launch of “TANDANANA” – The Annamacharya International Music Competition 2025, in celebration of the 617th Annamacharya Jayanthi. The initiative was formally inaugurated by Pujyasri Sakshiroopananad Swamiji, Chinmaya Mission, Hyderabad; formally unveiled the Annamacharya International Music Competition 2025, “TANDANANA” organized by Annamacharya Bhavana Vahini (ABV), to celebrate the 617th Annamacharya Jayanthi; at Annamayyapuram, (on way to Hitex), today. Dr. Shobha Raju, Founder – President, ABV; Dr. Nandakumar, Managing Trustee, ABV; graced the program. The launch event featured soulful renditions of Annamacharya Sankeertanas by popular playback singers and ABV students, setting a divine tone for the upcoming competition.

Pujyasri Sakshiroopananda Swamiji, speaking on the occasion, shared profound insights into the timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita. He described the Gita as a powerful life manual that guides individuals through life’s challenges and leads them towards happiness and contentment. By regularly reflecting on its teachings, one can navigate obstacles with clarity and purpose, he said. Highlighting the importance of self-awareness, Swamiji explained the concept of BMI – Body, Mind, and Intellect, as essential tools in the pursuit of one’s life goals. The Gita teaches us that all living beings are divine manifestations of God, he noted, emphasising the oneness of existence. He also beautifully connected this philosophy with devotional verses of Saint- poet Annamacharya. Referring to the keertana ‘Tandanana Bhala, Tandanana – Brahma Mokate, Para Brahma Mokate’, he elaborated that its essence lies in the principle of unity, that there is but one Supreme Truth. The human being, the world, and the Divine are inseparable, they are one and the same. Swamiji concluded by saying that Annamacharya’s keertanas, expressed in the language of the common people, they are a poetic portrayal of Advaita, the non-dualistic philosophy, which sees divinity in every living being. “One who perceives God in all is the true enlightened soul,” he affirmed. He said, Chinmaya Mission has been conducting annual competitions, this year we are conducting a national level competition on Chapter 15th of Bhagavad Gita, in which children can participate. We are celebrating Chinmaya Mission 75 years’ celebrations, an international competition will be hosted on the occasion, which will be a Vishwa Sammelanam with over a lakh participants in New Delhi. A Gita parayanam with over a lakh participants will be hosted at Hyderabad, next year.

Dr. Shoba Raju said, Tandanana, the international music competition, is poised to be a landmark initiative in the global mission to spread the timeless beauty of Annamacharya Keertanas. In a world grappling with uncertainty, societal unrest, and emotional turmoil, we initially questioned whether launching such an event would be possible or even appropriate at this time. But today, more than ever, we recognize the urgent need for inner peace, resilience, and spiritual grounding. Annamacharya’s compositions, steeped in devotion and wisdom, offer just that a source of solace, strength, and inspiration. Through Tandanana, we aim not just to celebrate his legacy, but to ignite a renewed cultural movement that will carry this rich musical tradition into the hearts and voices of future generations. This competition is more than a musical event; it’s a heartfelt mission to pass the baton of bhakti and classical heritage to the next generation, ensuring that the divine melody of Annamacharya continues to uplift lives across the globe.

TANDANANA is a global music contest dedicated to the timeless compositions of Sri Tallapaka Annamacharya. Participants from around the world are invited to showcase their talent in rendering Annamacharya Keerthanas across three age-based categories:

Sub-Junior: below 6 years
Junior: 7 to 15 years
Senior: 16 years and above

The grand finale will take place on October 8^th, 2025, at Annamayyapuram, Hyderabad. The prize distribution ceremony, accompanied by a vibrant cultural celebration of Annamacharya Keerthanas, will be held in Amaravati. The Hon’ble Chief Minster of Andhra Pradesh, Sri Nara Chandrababu Naidu will be the Chief Guest at the Program and will distribute the prizes to the winners.

A distinguished panel of eminent individuals and connoisseurs of music will evaluate the enthusiastic participants.

The Father of Indian Pulp Fiction – Ved Prakash Sharma’s Iconic Thrillers Set for Big-Screen Revival

India’s most iconic pulp fiction author finds a new cinematic life as Almighty Motion Picture adapts eight of his most celebrated novels.

In a landmark collaboration, Almighty Motion Picture has acquired the audio-visual rights to eight blockbuster novels by Ved Prakash Sharma—the legendary author hailed as the father of Indian pulp fiction. With a readership that spans generations and a publishing record of crores of copies sold, Sharma’s stories have captivated millions with their irresistible blend of thrill, drama, and mass appeal.

The titles acquired include Superstar, Paintra, Dahej Mai Revolver, Jadu Bhara Jaal, and the cult trilogy— Qatil Ho To Aisa, Shakahari Khanjar, Madari—along with Naseeb Mera Dushman. These books, revered for their gripping plots and unforgettable characters, are now set to find new life on screen through high-octane cinematic adaptations.

“This is not just an acquisition—it’s a tribute. Ved Prakash Sharma ji is one of the most iconic storytellers India has ever seen. His stories have shaped popular literature in our country. To bring them to screen is both a dream and a deep responsibility. We are grateful to Shagun Sharma and Madhu Sharma ji for trusting us with this legacy,” said Prabhleen Sandhu, Founder, Almighty Motion Picture.

“It’s an emotional moment for our family and for fans of my father’s work. Watching his stories find new form through cinema is a celebration of his legacy. Teaming up with Almighty Motion Picture ensures these adaptations will be handled with creativity and care,” said Shagun Sharma, Co-Founder, Tulsi Paper Books.

With this ambitious slate, Almighty Motion Picture aims to reintroduce Sharma’s timeless stories to a new generation—bridging the nostalgia of India’s pulp era with the power of modern storytelling. The screen is now set for gritty action, layered drama, and enduring characters born from the golden age of Indian popular fiction.

Satyajit Ray’s Film To Showcase At Cannes 2025; Wes Anderson, Sharmila Tagore, Simi Garewal To Attend The Premiere

Film Heritage Foundation (FHF), a dedicated non-profit organization committed to preserving South Asia’s cinematic legacy, proudly announces its participation in the Cannes Film Festival 2025 with the world premieres of two meticulously restored masterpieces: Satyajit Ray’s Bengali film ‘Aranyer Din Ratri’ (1970) and Sumitra Peries’ Sinhalese film ‘Gehenu Lamai’ (1978). These landmark restorations will grace the Cannes Classics section, highlighting the importance of film preservation and celebrating the rich cinematic heritage of India and Sri Lanka.

The selection of these two films marks the fourth consecutive year that Film Heritage Foundation has been invited to present its restoration work at Cannes Classics. FHF’s previous Cannes presentations include Aravindan Govindan’s ‘Thamp’ in 2022, Aribam Syam Sharma’s ‘Ishanou’ in 2023, and Shyam Benegal’s ‘Manthan’ in 2024, each contributing to a growing appreciation for South Asian cinema on the global stage. Showcasing two films this year underscores FHF’s commitment to preserving and promoting the rich tapestry of South Asian cinema on a global stage.

Shivendra Singh Dungarpur, Director, Film Heritage Foundation remarks, “Working on the restoration of Satyajit Ray’s ‘Aranyer Din Ratri’ has been an incredibly moving experience. Seeing the film’s beauty and artistry revitalized after 56 years – from its haunting score and the captivating chemistry of its cast, to the unforgettable grace of Sharmila Tagore and Ray’s sensitive portrayal of the Santhal tribals – has been a true privilege. Equally profound was the journey of restoring Sumitra Peries’ ‘Gehenu Lamai.’ I remember so vividly the day Sumitra-ji entrusted me with a DVD of the film, her handwritten notes a testament to her deep affection for this work. Watching it, I was struck by the film’s poetic imagery and the delicate assuredness with which she navigated the fragile emotions of her young actors. Knowing the precarious condition of the film elements at the time, I felt a sense of urgency to preserve this masterpiece before it was lost forever. Thanks to the generous support of the French Government through our collaboration on the FISCH initiative, we were able to undertake this challenging restoration. It was a painstaking process, piecing together three different elements to bring ‘Gehenu Lamai’ back to its original glory. My only regret is that Sumitra-ji is not here to witness this rebirth of her poetic vision.”

Aranyer Din Ratri (Days And Nights In The Forest)

Satyajit Ray’s ‘Aranyer Din Ratri’, a seminal work in the canon of Indian cinema, has been meticulously restored through a synergistic collaboration between The Film Foundation’s World Cinema Project, Film Heritage Foundation and The Criterion Collection /Janus Films. The 4K restoration was completed using the original camera and sound negative preserved by Purnima Dutta, producer of “Aranyer Din Ratri” and two other Satyajit Ray films – “Goopy Gyne Bagha Byne” (1969) and “Pratidwandi” (1970).

The premiere of ‘Aranyer Din Ratri’ in Cannes will be presented by a distinguished cohort of film luminaries, including filmmaker and Board Member of The Film Foundation Wes Anderson, film’s lead actress Sharmila Tagore, Simi Garewal, producer Purnima Dutta, Executive Director of The Film Foundation Margaret Bodde, Director of Film Heritage Foundation Shivendra Singh Dungarpur and Peter Becker and Fumiko Takagi of The Criterion Collection / Janus Films.

Wes Anderson states, “Anything signed by Satyajit Ray must be cherished and preserved; but the nearly-forgotten Days and Nights in the Forest is a special/particular gem… Made in 1970. Modern and novelistic. Ray worked in terrain perhaps more familiar to Cassavetes. A clash/negotiation between castes and sexes. Urbans and rurals. Selfish men and their hopes and cruelties and spectacular lack of wisdom. Women who see through them. The great Soumitra Chatterjee: lost but searching. The great Sharmila Tagore: mysterious, cerebral, mesmerizing. From the master, another masterpiece.”

Sharmila Tagore states, “It’s wonderful that Manik Da’s ‘Aranyer Din Ratri’ has been restored and will have its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival this year. This is a very special moment for me and I am so happy that I will be in Cannes to present the film at the premiere. I remember I was shooting for ‘Aradhana’ when Manikda approached me to shoot for this film for a month at a stretch. It was incredibly hot during the shoot and we could only shoot in the mornings and late afternoons. I have wonderful memories of the time spent with my co-actors and Manikda’s precision, especially in the way he shot the memory game sequence, was incredible. I can’t wait to watch the restored film. Aranyer Din Ratri is such a contemporary film that I know it will resonate with new audiences across the world even today. I would like to thank the Film Heritage Foundation for their amazing contribution in restoring this film.”

This cinematic Bengali gem offers a nuanced and introspective portrayal of post-colonial urban India. Through the lens of four young men seeking a temporary escape in the forests of Jharkhand, the film subtly unravels the complexities of class consciousness, gender relations, and the enduring weight of tradition in a rapidly changing society. Far from serving as mere scenery, the verdant landscape becomes a potent catalyst, exposing the protagonists’ inherent prejudices and simultaneously illuminating their potential for self-awareness and personal evolution. The film boasts a constellation of talent, including Sharmila Tagore, Kaberi Bose, Simi Garewal, Soumitra Chatterjee, Shubhendu Chatterjee, Rabi Ghosh, Samit Bhanja, Pahari Sanyal, Premashish Sen, Samar Nag, Khairatilal Lahori, Master Dibyendu Chatterjee and Aparna Sen. Hailed by David Robinson of the Financial Times as “Ray’s work at its best,” ‘Aranyer Din Ratri’ transcends its narrative framework to offer a profound meditation on the challenges faced by a generation caught between inherited privilege and the burgeoning promise of a new India.

Gehenu Lamai (Girls)

Sumitra Peries’ debut film, ‘Gehenu Lamai’, has been meticulously restored by Film Heritage Foundation under the aegis of FISCH (France- India – Sri Lanka Cine Heritage – Saving Film Across Borders). This pioneering international collaboration brings together the Film Heritage Foundation, the Embassy of France and the French Institute in India, and the Embassy of France in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, all dedicated to preserving cinematic heritage.

The premiere of ‘Gehenu Lamai’ will be graced by the presence of its lead stars, Wasanthi Chathurani, Ajith Jinadasa and Shyama Ananda alongside a distinguished delegation including Director of Film Heritage Foundation Shivendra Singh Dungarpur, Chairperson of the Lester James Peries and Sumitra Peries Foundation Gayathri Mustachi and actor, director and Head of the Gamini Fonseka Foundation Dammith Fonseka.

Wasanthi Chathurani states, “I am overwhelmed that ‘Gehenu Lamai’ has been restored by Film Heritage Foundation and will be premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, 47 years after it was released. I was just 16 and studying in a convent school when Sumitra Peries selected me for the role of Kusum. Initially, I was very nervous and almost gave up, but she was so patient and she taught me the nuances of acting and how to face the camera. The character of Kusum will stay etched in my mind forever. The film was a life-changing experience for me. I cannot think of a better tribute to pay to Sumitra Peries, one of the greatest filmmakers from Sri Lanka. I only wish she could have been in Cannes to see her film come back to life on such an amazing platform. Film Heritage Foundation should be commended for their commitment over the years in building a movement for film preservation in Sri Lanka and for putting Sri Lanka’s film heritage on the world map.”

Ajith Jinadasa states, “During the 1970s, it was rare to see women directing films, and Mrs. Sumitra Peries stood out as a visionary. I often reflect on how pivotal ‘Gehenu Lamai’ was in my life. If Mrs. Sumitra Peries had not chosen me for the role of Nimal, I might have faded away as a one-hit-wonder child actor. That film gave me a second life in cinema, and for that, I am forever grateful. The relationship between Nimal, the character I played, and Kusum, portrayed so beautifully by Wasanthi Chathurani, was innocent, pure, and without conflict from others—yet, it could not survive the rigid social norms of the time. The film left many heartbroken. Even today, 47 years later, fans still ask me, often emotionally, why I abandoned Kusum. Their anger and passion speak volumes about how deeply the story touched people. ‘Gehenu Lamai’ resonates across generations and borders, perhaps because no other love story of that era so truthfully portrayed the silent battles fought within society and within oneself. It is an immense honour to witness the restoration of ‘Gehenu Lamai’ and to be part of its celebration at one of the world’s most prestigious film festivals. My heartfelt thanks goes to Film Heritage Foundation for their dedication in preserving this important piece of Sri Lankan cinematic history and to the French Government for supporting the restoration. This film deserves to live on—not just for nostalgia, but for future generations to understand the soul of our storytelling.”

‘Gehenu Lamai’, honored as the Outstanding Film of the Year at the 1978 London Film Festival, stands as a poignant cinematic study of youthful longing and the restrictive forces of societal convention in rural Sri Lanka. Sumitra Peries, revered as the Poetess of Sri Lankan Cinema and a pre-eminent figure in the global film landscape, orchestrates a masterful exploration of the delicate nuances of adolescent love. Set against the backdrop of entrenched class divisions and a society in transition, the film delicately unfurls the tragic narrative of two sisters whose aspirations are ultimately stifled by the insurmountable barriers of their social milieu. The film is further enriched by its evocative black and white cinematography and features unforgettable performances from a talented ensemble cast, including Wasanthi Chathurani, Ajith Jinadasa, Jenitha Samaraweera, Shyama Ananda, Trilicia Gunawardena, Chitra Wakishta, Senaka Perera, Nimal Dayaratne, Dayamanthi Pattiarachchi, and Joe Abeywickrema.

 Aranyer Din Ratri

Sandip Ray states, “Aranyer Din Ratri’ is, still today, one of my favourite films and the restoration work that has been done to it is absolutely stunning. I worked closely with Shivendra Singh Dungarpur through the whole restoration process and was quite amazed by the meticulous approach that was taken to the restoration. It thrills me to know that the film has been selected to premiere at the Cannes Film Festival. I’m tremendously grateful to Martin Scorsese’s ‘The Film Foundation’, Film Heritage Foundation, and The Criterion Collection for joining hands to make this restoration possible. My heartfelt thanks to Wes Anderson, who I know is a great admirer of my father’s work, for presenting the film at Cannes.”

Purnima Dutta states, “I am overwhelmed that Aranyer Din Ratri, a masterpiece by Satyajit Ray has been selected to be premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. The film has resonated with the audiences all across the world and will certainly spark meaningful discussions at the festival.As the producer of the film, it is a great honour and pleasure for me to present the restored film at such a prestigious international festival. I would like to thank The Film Foundation for restoring the film and Shivendra Singh Dungarpur of Film Heritage Foundation for his dedication and the time he spent to supervise and coordinate the restoration to ensure that Aranyer Din Ratri is given a second life.”

Simi Garewal states, “The restoration of Aranyer Din Ratri is an extraordinary gift —not just to those of us who were part of the film, but to world cinema. To have it premiere at Cannes Film Festival is a beautiful tribute to Satyajit Ray’s timeless brilliance. I still remember the silence of the forests, the rhythm of the shoot . . . Working with Satyajit Ray was like stepping into the mind of a quiet genius—every word, every gesture mattered, and he had this rare ability to make you discover depths in yourself you didn’t know existed. I’m so pleased that this masterpiece has been so lovingly restored by Martin Scorsese’s The Film Foundation, Film Heritage Foundation and the Criterion Collection for future generations to experience.”

 Gehenu Lamai

Gayathri Mustachi, Chairperson, Lester James Peries and Sumitra Peries Foundation states, “As the Chairperson of the Lester James Peries and Sumitra Peries Foundation, and the niece of both Sumitra and Lester James Peries—two visionaries who shaped the soul of our national cinema, it is an incredibly moving moment for me personally to stand witness to the world premiere of restored ‘Gehenu Lamai’. This film, directed by the trailblazing Sumitra Peries, is not only a landmark in Sri Lankan cinema but also a powerful, compassionate portrayal of womanhood that continues to resonate across generations. Film Heritage Foundation has done incredible work on the restoration and I would like to thank them for selecting this film for restoration in association with our Foundation and under the aegis of FISCH (France–India–Sri Lanka Cine Heritage – Saving Film Across Borders). This restoration is an act of cultural preservation. It ensures that Sumitra’s quiet strength, poetic eye, and progressive spirit will once again touch audiences around the world.”

Remi Lambert, Ambassador of France to Sri Lanka states, “In choosing to restore Gehenu Lamai, directorial debut of Sumitra Peries, we sought not only to safeguard a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s film history, but also to bring a masterpiece of women’s storytelling back into the light. The choice felt like an obvious one : what stronger symbol than to restore such an essential cinematic landmark which showcases Sri Lanka women’s cultural heritage, all the more so as it was directed by an artist who was, quite literally, an ambassador of Franco–Sri Lankan relations. Thanks to the dedication and expertise of the Film Heritage Foundation, who took on the challenge of restoring the film, Gehenu Lamai has been restored and given a new life. France is honored to stand alongside Sri Lanka in keeping its rich cinematic heritage alive. This lies at the very heart of our cultural commitment: preserving the arts and their memory. A film is made to be seen ; not to sleep on reels, but to live on screen. The spotlight on Sri Lankan cinema at Cannes this year is a profound source of pride, but we also hope to see Gehenu Lamai return to Sri Lankan silver screen soon, where it can resonate once more in the hearts for which it was first created.”

Restoration Process – Aranyer Din Ratri

The impetus for the restoration of Satyajit Ray’s ‘Aranyer Din Ratri’ arose in 2019, championed by The Film Foundation (TFF) at the suggestion of its board member, Wes Anderson. A collaborative dialogue was initiated with Shivendra Singh Dungarpur of Film Heritage Foundation (FHF), leading to formal discussions with copyright holder Purnima Dutta of Piyali Films. The aim was to secure access to the original camera and sound negatives, essential for undertaking a comprehensive restoration. TFF also engaged with longtime partner Fumiko Takagi of Janus Films/Criterion Collection, who had previously explored licensing the title with Ms. Dutta in Kolkata (2013). The restoration formally commenced in 2020, facing significant logistical challenges due to the global pandemic. Despite these obstacles, Shivendra Singh Dungarpur journeyed from Mumbai to Kolkata during a period of strict lockdown to assess the condition of the negatives and arrange their transport to L’Immagine Ritrovata in Bologna, Italy, for high-resolution scanning and 4K digital restoration. The restoration process was meticulously executed at L’Immagine Ritrovata, utilizing the original camera and sound negatives preserved by Purnima Dutta as primary source elements. The laboratory undertook extensive digital restoration work, addressing a range of issues present in the original materials, including dust, scratches, stains, image instability, green mold and flickering. The original sound negative exhibited varying degrees of quality across and within reels. Audio restoration efforts focused on mitigating electrical and support noise, filling audio gaps, and addressing inconsistencies in background ambience. Notably, Reels 9 through 12 presented the most significant challenges, which were successfully minimized through careful intervention. A magnetic track preserved by the BFI National Archive was used to replace a limited portion of the audio in Reel 2. Throughout the restoration process, Shivendra Singh Dungarpur maintained close collaboration with L’Immagine Ritrovata, overseeing the technical work and the creation of an accurate English translation. He also coordinated with the Dutta Family and Satyajit Ray’s son, Sandip Ray, who actively participated in work-in-progress screenings and final reviews to ensure fidelity to the original artistic vision. All restoration work has been formally approved by the Dutta Family and Sandip Ray, underscoring the commitment to preserving the film’s integrity. The English subtitles were crafted by Indrani Mazumdar, a longtime collaborator of Satyajit Ray and the only person he entrusted with English subtitles during his lifetime. Mazumdar is also a renowned translator of Ray’s Bengali literary works. In parallel with the restoration, and with the support of TFF and FHF, Janus Films secured licensing rights for “Aranyer Din Ratri” in the US and UK, ensuring the restored film’s availability to audiences in its highest possible quality. ‘Aranyer Din Ratri’ was restored by The Film Foundation’s World Cinema Project at L’Immagine Ritrovata, in collaboration with Film Heritage Foundation, Janus Films and The Criterion Collection. Funding was generously provided by the Golden Globe Foundation, with special acknowledgement to Wes Anderson for his instrumental support. The 4K restoration was completed using the original camera and sound negative preserved by Purnima Dutta, and a magnetic track preserved at the BFI National Archive. Special thanks are extended to Sandip Ray for his invaluable contributions.

Restoration Process – Gehenu Lamai

The impetus for restoring Sumitra Peries’ ‘Gehenu Lamai’ originated in 2018 when Shivendra Singh Dungarpur, alongside members of FIAF (Fédération Internationale des Archives du Film), undertook a “Rescue Mission” to Colombo. This expedition involved assessing the condition of approximately 30,000 film reels housed in various storage facilities, including the National Film Corporation (NFC) Headquarters, the National Archives, the government film archive, and the NFC Film Archive at Sarasavi Studios. The team faced a daunting collection of films in varying states of decomposition, often stored in suboptimal conditions. The primary objective was to identify films beyond salvage and to offer guidance on equipment, storage solutions, digitization strategies, and overall preservation methodologies. During this visit, Shivendra Singh Dungarpur met Lester James Peries and Sumitra Peries. Sumitra Peries expressed her desire to restore some of her films, later providing Dungarpur with DVDs accompanied by handwritten notes indicating her preferred titles for restoration, chief among them her debut feature, ‘Gehenu Lamai’. It was not until six years later that this vision became a tangible possibility, thanks to a grant awarded under the umbrella of FISCH – France – India – Sri Lanka Cine Heritage – Saving Film Across Borders, an international collaborative initiative. This funding enabled Film Heritage Foundation, in association with the Lester James Peries and Sumitra Peries Foundation, to embark on the challenging restoration of ‘Gehenu Lamai’. Fortunately, surviving film elements of “Gehenu Lamai” were located at the National Film Corporation of Sri Lanka: a 35mm combined dupe negative and two first-generation 35mm release prints. These elements were carefully transported to L’Immagine Ritrovata, the renowned film restoration laboratory in Bologna, Italy. Upon inspection at both the Film Heritage Foundation archive and the laboratory in Bologna, conservators determined that the condition of the reels varied significantly, ranging from average to poor to critical. Several reels exhibited tears, broken sprockets, blockage, shrinkage, emulsion damage, buckling, and warping. Significant time was invested in meticulously repairing these physical damages – addressing damaged perforations, mending tears, and replacing aging tape splices – to prepare the film for high-resolution 4K scanning. The film comparison stage revealed that one of the positive prints was a vintage release of the Sri Lankan version, containing additional shots not found elsewhere. This print served as a valuable guide for the restored version. While the dupe negative, a second-generation element, offered the best overall photographic quality, it unfortunately contained embedded subtitles. Ultimately, the dupe negative’s lower photographic contrast allowed for the recovery of greater detail, making it the primary element used for the restoration. This necessitated extensive digital restoration work to correct distortions and faithfully recover the image’s original aesthetic. The sound restoration proved particularly complex. The sound quality was generally low, exhibiting issues such as clicks, crackles, hiss, physical gaps, and damaged optical sound tracks that rendered portions inaudible. High levels of electrical noise and distortion further compounded the challenges. ‘Gehenu Lamai’ was restored by the Film Heritage Foundation at L’Immagine Ritrovata laboratory, in association with the Lester James Peries and Sumitra Peries Foundation. Funding was generously provided by a grant under the aegis of FISCH: France- India – Sri Lanka Cine Heritage – Saving Film Across Borders. It was restored using the best surviving elements: the 35mm combined dupe negative and two 35mm release prints preserved at the National Film Corporation of Sri Lanka. The condition of the three elements had deteriorated, exhibiting tears, broken sprockets, heavy warping, emulsion damage, and shrinkage, which also impacted the sound quality. The combined dupe negative contained embedded subtitles.

Yuzvendra Chahal cheers for RJ Mahvash as Pyar, Paisa, Profit steals the show on Amazon MX Player

Mumbai, India- May 08, 2025: Amazon MX Player, Amazon’s free video streaming service, latest youth drama series, Pyar, Paisa, Profit, has been winning hearts ever since its release on 7th May. With its refreshing narrative, relatable characters, and high-stakes drama set in the world of start-ups and venture capital, the series has struck a chord with young audiences. At the heart of the buzz is RJ Mahvash, who makes a promising debut as an actor, earning praise for her portrayal of Garima, a spirited young woman navigating love, ambition, and corporate chaos.

Adding to the excitement, Indian cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal gave the show and RJ Mahvash a big shout-out on social media. Sharing the poster of the series on his Instagram story, Chahal wrote, “Congratulations @rj.mahvash, proud of you”, a gesture that fans were quick to notice and celebrate.

Starring Mihir Ahuja, Neil Bhoopalam, Riddhi Kumar, RJ Mahvash, and Ashish Raghav, Pyar, Paisa, Profit explores the high-pressure world of Mumbai’s VC firms, where four young professionals navigate money, ambition, heartbreak, and the cost of success. Based on Durjoy Dutta’s bestselling novel ‘Now That You’re Rich… Let’s Fall in Love’, the series is created by Durjoy Dutta and Sumrit Shahi, directed by Prashant Singh, and produced by Inspire Films.

Pyar, Paisa, Profit is streaming exclusively on Amazon MX Player, available to stream for free through its apps on mobile, the Amazon shopping app, Prime Video, Fire TV, and connected TVs.