Category Archives: Entertainment

Zee Bangla Unveils ‘Kusum’ – A Tale of Love, Family & Traditions That Transcends Boundaries

Kolkata, 28th May, 2025: Zee Bangla, one of Bengal’s most loved entertainment channels, is set to present its latest prime time offering ‘Kusum’, a heartfelt narrative of two contrasting families, emotional journeys, and enduring love. Produced by Acropolis entertainment, the show premieres on 4th June 2025 at 5.30 PM, exclusively on Zee Bangla.

Starring Tanishka Tiwari as Kusum, Anjana Basu as Indrani Ganguly, and Saptarshi Roy as Ayushman Ganguly, the show promises to deliver high-voltage drama, cultural nuance, and memorable moments. Set against the backdrop of a culturally rich household, Kusum explores the emotional evolution of a spirited village girl as she navigates the stern, rule-bound mansion of a powerful businesswoman. The story follows Kusum – a free-spirited, emotional girl with a golden heart – as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, love, and transformation. Along the way, she encounters Indrani Ganguly, a self-made, authoritative matriarch whose strict norms define her world, and Ayushman, Indrani’s empathetic son who becomes the bridge between tradition and change.

“Kusum is a heartfelt blend of rural Bengal’s emotional depth and the evolving values of today’s urban families. At Zee Bangla, we aim to tell stories that reflect the complexities of human relationships and social change, while staying rooted in our cultural heritage. We’re confident that Kusum will deeply connect with our audience, touching hearts with its relatable characters and emotionally rich storytelling.” said Mr Samrat Ghosh, Chief Cluster Officer – East, North & Premium Cluster, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd.

“At Zee Bangla, we take pride in introducing fresh talent while honoring familiar faces. Our new fiction “Kusum” marks the debut of Tanishka Tiwari in a lead role, bringing youthful charm to a powerful narrative. We’re thrilled to reunite with Acropolis Entertainment — the makers of Bokul Kotha, Rashi, Aamar Durga, and Agnipariksha — and to welcome back the acclaimed Anjana Basu. Kusum promises a heartfelt story, blending new beginnings with the emotional richness our audience loves.” said Navnita Chakraborty, Business Head, Zee Bangla & Chief Content Officer, ZEE TV.

His Story of Itihaas: The Film That Challenges History — And the Silence Around It

Delhi, May 28, 2025: In an era when history is contested and narratives are under scrutiny, a bold new film is stepping into the conversation. His Story of Itihaas, directed by debutant Manpreet Singh Dhami and starring acclaimed actor Subodh Bhave, is set to release on 30th May 2025.

The film had its special preview screening at Odeon Inox, Connaught Place, New Delhi, hosted by Panchkarma Films. Present at the event was Shri Ashish Sood, Hon’ble Education Minister, Government of Delhi NCT, Prof. Anil D. Sahasrabudhe Chairman, NETF & Executive Committee NAAC, Prof. Kapil Kumar and many more who deeply resonated with the film’s theme and praised its courage.

“This film sheds light on critical aspects of our society that have long remained ignored. Such thought-provoking efforts play a vital role in connecting our youth with the deeper truths of history, society, and life,” Shri Ashish Sood shared after the screening.

A Father, A Teacher, A Question No One Asked

At the heart of His Story of Itihaas is Namit, a quiet physics teacher whose discovery of ideological distortions in his daughter’s history textbooks leads him down a treacherous path — from schools to courtrooms, and from disillusionment to defiance.

Subodh Bhave’s performance captures the inner turbulence of a man who starts off questioning a textbook and ends up questioning the system.

Inspired by the real-life work of Neeraj Atri, a physicist who challenged the content of school history books, the film is the result of director Manpreet Singh Dhami’s four-year research journey — one that was rejected by over 60 actors and funders before it finally came to life.

“They told me not to touch this topic,” says Dhami. “But I couldn’t stay silent once I understood what was at stake.”

A Movement Disguised as a Movie

His Story of Itihaas is not just cinema — it’s a mirror to the education system and the selective storytelling that shapes our national identity. It questions whether our children are learning the truth or merely a version curated by past powers.

The trailer has triggered conversations across social media, with audiences calling it “a gut-punch to intellectual apathy” and “a cinematic call to unlearn.”

Malaika Arora on Realme Hip Hop India S2: “It’s About Owning the Moment”

MUMBAI, India–May 28, 2025: Amazon MX Player, Amazon’s free streaming platform, is turning up the tempo as Realme Hip Hop India Season 2 continues to dominate the charts and capture viewers’ hearts across the country. As the show inches closer to the ultimate showdown, the competition is only getting more intense, and the rivalries sharper than ever. With tension running high, surprises around every corner, and energy that never lets up, judges Remo D’Souza and Malaika Arora are seeing dancers go harder, bring their A-game to each performance, and command the stage like never before.

Reflecting on what sets a standout performer apart, Malaika Arora shared, “For me, presence and expression are everything. When a dancer steps onto that stage and instantly commands the space, even before the music drops, you know you’re in for something special. It’s not just about executing choreography. It’s about owning the moment and connecting with the audience from the very first beat.”

She further added, “Technique is important, of course, but it’s the emotional connection that transforms a good performance into something unforgettable. When a dancer is truly living every note, and telling a story, that’s when I know I’m witnessing something special. There’s a kind of authenticity in those moments that you don’t see often, and when that happens, it stays with you.”

As rivalries intensify and emotions run high, Realme Hip Hop India Season 2 keeps the adrenaline pumping with performances that are as explosive as they are emotionally charged. New episodes drop every Thursday, only on Amazon MX Player, accessible on the Amazon Shopping App, Prime Video, Fire TV, and Connected TVs.

The Master of Suspense, Style, and Secrets—Why Karan Johar is the Perfect Host for The Traitors

When it comes to a game of trust, betrayal, and high-stakes deception, every glance, pause, and word holds weight. And in a reality show like The Traitors, where strategy is survival and suspicion runs deep, the role of the host isn’t just ornamental; it’s integral. That’s why Karan Johar, with his signature blend of charisma, wit, and emotional intelligence, is the perfect torchbearer for this gripping psychological reality series.

Set inside a majestic palace, The Traitors brings together 20 celebrity players in a tense game of trust and mind games. As bonds break and suspicions thicken, Karan remains—silent, watchful, and impossible to read. He sees everything. Yet he says almost nothing and changes everything.

Why is he the perfect host?

Because a host of The Traitors is someone who could be warm yet intimidating, charming but unswayed; someone who could command the room without influencing the game. It’s a responsibility that demands restraint, timing, and undeniable poise, and Karan brings all three in full force. He’s there not just for the viewers, but for the players too. A silent observer who watches everything, and walks the fine line between host and enigma. Whether highlighting the tension, dropping hints towards game-changing twists, or simply holding a silence that says more than words ever could, Karan makes every moment count.

With decades of experience shaping unforgettable stories and as a seasoned host, Karan Johar knows drama inside out. He understands tension, character, and motive. His instinct for what keeps people hooked makes him uniquely suited to this world of suspicion and strategy.

Karan doesn’t just set the stage. He transforms it.

Produced by BBC Studios India Productions, Prime Video brings the Indian adaptation of IDTV’s BAFTA and Emmy award-winning global format The Traitors, in collaboration with All3Media International. Premiering on June 12, The Traitors will exclusively stream on Prime Video, with new episodes dropping every Thursday at 8 PM.

RJ Mahvash Opens Up About Emotional Toll of Intense Scene in Pyar Paisa Profit

MUMBAI, India– May 28, 2025: Amazon’s free streaming service, Amazon MX player, is steadily capturing audience attention in the OTT space with its diverse content lineup. One of its latest offerings, Pyar Paisa Profit, is generating major buzz for its sharp storytelling and emotional resonance. Adapted from Durjoy Dutta’s bestselling novel Now That You’re Rich, Let’s Fall in Love, and directed by Prashant Singh, the show follows four ambitious young professionals– Abhijeet, Saurabh, Shruti, and Garima, trying to navigate the chaotic blend of career highs and personal heartbreakers in the bustling city of Mumbai. Boasting a stellar ensemble cast featuring Mihir Ahuja, RJ Mahvash, Pratik Yadav, Shivangi Khedkar, Nitish Sharma, and Naman Upadhyaya, the series promises to strike a chord and keep viewers engaged throughout.

Reflecting on a particularly demanding scene from the shoot, RJ Mahvash shared, “There was a scene where my character breaks down emotionally on a balcony, and it turned out to be the most challenging moment of the series for me. The scene required me to cry my heart out twice, once downstairs and then again up on the balcony. Since it was my debut series, I thought I’d push myself and try method acting. I tapped into a deeply personal loss – someone close to me in my family had recently passed away, and I started reliving those memories, imagining them walking into the room again.”

She further added, “The emotions got so real that I couldn’t snap out of it even after they called ‘cut’. I ended up having a panic attack on set. I was sobbing uncontrollably, and when I looked around, I saw that half of the crew was in tears too. People were bringing me water, trying to calm me down, but I was completely overwhelmed. It was honestly quite embarrassing, and in that moment, I realised method acting isn’t for me– at least not for scenes that demand such emotional intensity. Now, I prefer the switch-on and switch-off technique, especially for scenes like that.”

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

Aditya Krishnatray Debuts with Short Film “The Jungle Story” on XP Series YouTube

India – May 26, 2025: Rising actor and popular YouTuber, Aditya Krishnatray has powerfully made his short film debut with The Jungle Story, which is now available to stream on the official Youtube channel of XP Series. The film features Aditya, alongside Simran Ghadai, Imroz Lokhende, and Divyanshu Gakhar, with an exceptional story created by Producer Vine Arora, Director Khan Aamir, and Creative Director & Project Head Gurdev K Aneja.

The Jungle Story now marks the third on-screen appearance for actors, Aditya Krishnatray and Simran Ghadai, showcasing a popular pairing that started with Aditya’s musical debut in Tu Hi Meri Rabb Hai (July 2024) that received 43K+ views. Earlier this year, they were both seen in romantic single #SajnaVe, released on Valentine’s Day that appeals to their fandom by receiving over 1 Lakh views on Paperstone Productions’ Youtube channel.

With The Jungle Story, Aditya adds another level of emotional and screen presence, which only adds to his growing versatility as an up-and-coming actor. Aditya has previously shown great strength in his presentations, and despite having an outstanding presence in music videos, he shows a similar skill level of connecting himself to narrative storytelling, with a terrific performance that mixes overall intensity and strength and subtle details. With The Jungle Story being created under the creative aura paperstone productions/playground and again with the support of Vine Arora, Aditya’s journey now from music to meaningful cinema will definitely continue to catch light from both filmmakers and audiences alike.

Aditya Krishnatray is a true artist to follow, his performances are always enduring and The Jungle Story only adds to his entry of impact into India’s digital entertainment timeline. Apart from acting Aditya is also a Travel Vlogger, he keeps posting his travel vlogs through his channel #TravellersNTubers.

Prime Video Unveils ‘The Traitors’: Karan Johar Hosts India’s Fiercest Reality Thriller Premiering June 12

Imagine working alongside your friends, colleagues or neighbours’ you laugh with, plan with, even trust — only to discover one of them is secretly plotting your downfall. Welcome to The Traitors, Prime Video’s upcoming new reality series, premiering June 12, with new episodes every Thursday at 8 PM.

An Indian adaptation of the smash-hit global phenomenon that’s won BAFTAs, Emmys, and broken friendships in over 30 countries is now landing in India. Hosted by the ever-charismatic Karan Johar, this cutthroat game of dhokha promises sass, suspense, and mind games like never before.

HOW THE GAME WORKS
20 players come together in a majestic palace — but among them lurk secret traitors chosen by the host himself. Their mission? To sabotage and eliminate the Innocents one by one, all while keeping their identities hidden.

● By day, the group completes missions to build a massive prize pot

● By night, the Traitors strike in secret, “murdering” an Innocent

● Each episode culminates in a tense Round Table (Think Mafia) where everyone votes out a suspected Traitor — but are they making the right call, or playing into the enemy’s hands?

If the Innocents unmask all the Traitors, they share the prize. But if even one Traitor survives, that player walks away with it all.

WHY THIS IS NOT YOUR TYPICAL REALITY SHOW
This isn’t about physical strength or raw talent — it’s a battle of instincts, wit, nerve, and how good one is at deception. Every smile could be a lie, every alliance a trap. The most dangerous weapon isn’t strategy — it’s trust.

WHY YOU CAN’T MISS IT
Already a global sensation, The Traitors has captivated audiences worldwide with its razor-sharp gameplay, shocking twists, and addictive storytelling. The Indian edition takes it up several notches — think full-celebrity cast, palace intrigue, stunning visuals, explosive secrets, and Karan Johar’s signature flair leading the game.

Get ready for intense drama and fights as friendships shatter and tempers flare. Loyalties will shift, alliances will crumble, and the tension will explode both on and off screen. It’s more than a reality show — it’s a pulse-pounding thriller where betrayal is the only way to survive.

Prepare for nail-biting suspense, endless speculation, and conversations that won’t stop. This June, experience reality entertainment like never before. Because in The Traitors, trusting the wrong person could cost you everything. Produced by BBC Studios India Productions, The Traitors is set to premiere exclusively on Prime Video from June 12, with new episodes every Thursday at 8 PM.

The Journey of ‘Metro…in dino’ has officially begun with the release of the song teaser for ‘Zamaana Lage’

India, 26th May, 2025: The teaser of ‘Zamaana Lage’ — the first song from ‘Metro…in dino’ — introduces us to a world of modern love and relationships that’s as vibrant as it is familiar. The complete song will be released on 28th May as the first track of the film’s album.

After ‘Life in a… Metro” and ‘Ludo’, ‘Metro…In Dino’ is the final chapter of Anurag Basu’s trilogy of hyperlinked cinema. Backed by producer Bhushan Kumar, the film weaves together a colourful, melody-soaked narrative of stories that reintroduces us to life in the metropolitan cities of India.

‘Zamaana Lage’ sees the return of the magical collaboration between composer Pritam and Anurag Basu — a duo known for creating chartbusters that linger long after the credits roll. This soulful track is brought to life by the evocative vocals of Arijit Singh and Shashwat Singh, who lend emotional depth and modern appeal to the song. Built around Indian poet Qaisar Ul Jafri’s poignant line “Tumhaare sheher ka mausam bada suhana lage,” ‘Zamaana Lage’ brings the timeless ghazal form into a modern soundscape for a new generation of listeners. With additional lyrics contributed by Sandeep Shrivastava, further enriching the composition.

Music director Pritam Chakraborty adds, “With Qaisar Ul Jafri’s timeless poetry, we wanted to revive the ghazal as a form — not as nostalgia, but as something emotionally alive and relevant today, and bring it into the mainstream. With its rich history and timeless depth, we felt it doesn’t always have to live in a classical soundscape. A ghazal can be pop — it can be modern in sound and structure, while still holding on to its poetic soul. That’s what we’ve tried to do with this song: reimagine the ghazal for today’s generation.”

In a world driven by speed and instant gratification, ‘Zamaana Lage’ is a rare pause — a poetic moment that bridges generations.

The song teaser features an impressive cast — Anupam Kher, Pankaj Tripathi, Konkona Sen Sharma, Aditya Roy Kapur, Sara Ali Khan, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Ali Fazal, Neena Gupta and Saswata Chatterjee— giving us the first look at these interconnected characters and the emotional upheavals of modern love that bind them.

The teaser is now live – dive into the world of ‘Metro…In Dino’ with the melody of ‘Zamaana Lage’.

Gulshan Kumar & T-Series presents, in association with Anurag Basu Productions Pvt. Ltd., ‘Metro…in dino’ Directed by Anurag Basu, with music composed by Pritam, and produced by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, Anurag Basu, and Taani Basu, watch your own story in cinemas on 4th July, 2025.

Suniel Shetty, Deepak Dhar & Aruna Daryanani Spark Conversation on OTT’s New Wave of Storytelling at Goafest 2025

Goa, India- 23 May 2025- Amazon MX Player, Amazon’s free streaming service took center stage on Day 2 of Goafest 2025 with an engaging fireside session titled ‘IGNITE THE NEXT: From Action and Adrenaline to Social Experiments.’ Moderated by Aruna Daryanani, Director of Amazon MX Player, the session featured an insightful conversation between Bollywood icon Suniel Shetty and content innovator Deepak Dhar, Founder & Group CEO, Banijay Asia and Endemol Shine India. Together, they delved into how bold storytelling, genre-bending formats, and the rise of digital platforms are revolutionising how content is crafted and consumed across India.

The session spotlighted the much-anticipated digital hit Hunter, a high-octane thriller headlined by Suniel Shetty that returns as part of Amazon MX Player’s Prime Day content line-up. From the evolution of his character ACP Vikram in the upcoming season to the series’ widespread fanbase across age groups, he discussed the adrenaline and preparation that contributed to the show’s success. He also addressed advertisers’ concerns about action thrillers not being “brand-safe.” Meanwhile, Deepak Dhar shed light on Rise and Fall, Amazon MX Player’s upcoming festive release – a sharp, social experiment-style reality show where contestants navigate shifting power dynamics. Under-scoring Banijay’s legacy of innovation, Dhar emphasised that Indian audiences are now more open to experimental formats and nuanced narratives, with streaming services like Amazon MX Player providing the perfect stage.

Speaking about bringing innovative storytelling to the forefront, Aruna Daryanani, Director, Amazon MX Player, shared, “At Amazon MX Player, we’re igniting the next wave of storytelling in India — fresh, diverse, and deeply engaging. From edge-of-the-seat thrillers like Hunter to disruptive formats like Rise and Fall, our commitment is simple: to entertain India for free, while offering brands meaningful and effective ways to connect with audiences.”

Suniel Shetty reflects on Hunter and how OTT has unlocked deeper, more layered storytelling, sharing, “With Hunter, I found more than just adrenaline-pumping action. It’s a story with heart, depth, and real emotional stakes. OTT platforms give us the freedom to break away from the usual clichés and bring out characters and stories in their rawest, most authentic form. Today’s viewers are demanding, they look for honesty in storytelling, and that’s what Hunter delivers.”

Sharing his vision behind the bold format of Rise and Fall, Deepak Dhar, Founder & Group CEO Banijay Asia & EndemolShine India, added, “We set out to create more than just a typical game show with Rise and Fall. This show is a sharp, insightful reflection of society’s power dynamics and shifting relationships. It goes beyond entertainment to explore how strategy, influence, and human behaviour intersect in real time, making it compelling and thought-provoking for viewers and brands alike. We are stoked to partner with Amazon MX Player to bring this bold, raw format to audiences nationwide.”

With this fireside chat at Goafest 2025, Amazon MX Player reinforced its commitment to pushing the envelope in Indian content creation, offering stories that are as disruptive as they are relatable.

Ahead of Monaco GP, Witness the F1 Thrill Beyond Race Day with These Unmissable Stories

What a ride the Romagna GP was, with Max Verstappen clinching yet another win! As all eyes turn to the iconic streets of Monte Carlo for the Monaco Grand Prix this Sunday, on May 25, the excitement around Formula 1 is at full throttle. This weekend promises speed, strategy, and spectacle at the legendary Circuit de Monaco. But the pulse of Formula 1 doesn’t have to fade when the engines quiet down. Whether you’re into behind-the-scenes drama or insightful deep dives into the sport, we have rounded up a list of the best audiobooks and films that capture the intensity and allure of Formula 1, so you can keep the adrenaline flowing even off the grid.

TO LISTEN

The Mechanic

If you think you’ve seen every side of Formula 1, The Mechanic will surprise you, but in the best way! Authored and read by former McLaren mechanic Marc ‘Elvis’ Priestley himself, this audiobook takes you deep into the high-stakes world behind the garage doors of Formula 1. Beyond the glitz of the podium, he shares what really goes on in the pit lane – from wild celebrations on yachts to high-tension rivalries and the relentless obsession it takes to chase victory. It’s fast-paced, fun, and full of jaw-dropping stories that show just how much heart (and chaos) fuels a winning team.

Inside F1

Veteran motorsport journalist Lee McKenzie pulls back the curtain on two decades spent inside the paddock, offering a rare insider’s view of Formula 1. Featuring her chats with legends like Schumacher, Hamilton, and Vettel to recounting pivotal moments and headline-making crashes, Lee’s accounts are packed with the adrenaline and emotion that defines the sport, giving you a ringside seat to the lives and careers of F1’s biggest stars. Honest, insightful, and deeply personal – for anyone who lives and breathes F1, this one’s a podium-topper.

Inside Mercedes F1

With unprecedented access to the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team during the dramatic 2023 and 2024 seasons, writer and narrator Matt Whyman takes you into the inner sanctum of a once-dominant team fighting to reclaim its throne. When you tune in, you will follow legends like Lewis Hamilton, rising star George Russell, and team boss Toto Wolff as they navigate through triumphs, setbacks, and the unwavering hunger to stay at the front.

Grand Prix

Narrated by motorsports journalist and insider Will Buxton, Grand Prix traces Formula 1’s post-war origins to today’s marvels. Whether you’re obsessed with Verstappen vs Hamilton or curious about how teams shave off milliseconds in the pit lane, this one is packed with compelling history. Will Buxton’s passion makes even the technical bits easy to understand for both die-hard fans and newer converts. It’s an unmissable listen and you must tune in – once you start, it’s tough to pause!

TO WATCH

Ford v Ferrari

For F1 fans and petrolheads alike, this film is a thrilling drama that goes beyond the racetrack. The film follows the intense battle between Ford and Ferrari at the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans, as legends Carroll Shelby (Matt Damon) and hot-tempered driver Ken Miles (Christian Bale) push themselves to the edge in a bid to beat Ferrari’s dominance. With their expertise and skills, they work tirelessly to develop the Ford GT40, a car that could finally take down Ferrari’s long-standing superiority. With brilliant authentic racing sequences, it offers a behind-the-scenes look at the fierce competition that defined an era in motorsports – an absolute must-watch for motorsport lovers.

Rush

Few rivalries in F1 history are as legendary as that between the flamboyant British daredevil James Hunt (Chris Hemsworth) and the meticulous Austrian genius Niki Lauda (Daniel Brühl), and this film captures it in all its intensity. Set during the high-stakes 1976 season, it dives deep into the personal grit, fierce ambition, and contrasting philosophies that drove these two legends, and nearly even destroyed them. With spectacular race sequences and an emotional undercurrent of respect between rivals, Rush captures the dangerous beauty of F1 at its peak.

Senna

The documentary tracks the meteoric rise and tragic fall of Ayrton Senna, one of F1’s most revered icons. It captures his intense rivalry with teammate Alain Prost at McLaren, their controversial clashes, and Senna’s quest for the world championship, with each race pushing the limits of skill and determination. It also highlights the political struggles within F1, the evolving technology of the sport, and his final, fateful days leading up to his death at the San Marino Grand Prix. It is a must-watch for any F1 fan eager to relive the highs and lows of one of motorsport’s greatest icons.

Coming Soon: F1

This film hits the big screen this June with Brad Pitt starring as Sonny Hayes, a racing legend from the ’90s whose career was cut short by a devastating crash. Decades later, he’s lured back into the sport to help revive a struggling Formula 1 team and finds himself sharing the track with a fearless young rookie, played by Damson Idris. What follows is a high-stakes ride through rivalry, redemption, and the relentless pace of the sport. Backed by real F1 race footage and champion Lewis Hamilton as producer, this film is as close as it gets to being on the grid.