Category Archives: Entertainment

Pankaj Tripathi draws parallels between Madhav Mishra and himself, pondering on the similarities

One murder, two accused and a three-way trial! Join Pankaj Tripathi as he dons the hat of Madhav Mishra once again as the endearing lawyer gears up for his toughest case yet in Criminal Justice – A Family Matter. Directed by Rohan Sippy , Produced by Applause Entertainment in association with BBC Studios India, season 4 of this beloved legacy show will stream on JioHotstar starting May 29. This season boasts an ensemble cast consisting of Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Surveen Chawla, Asha Negi, Khushboo Atre, Barkha Singh, Aatm Prakash Mishra, alongside Mita Vashisht and Shweta Basu Prasad. in pivotal roles.

For Pankaj Tripathi , acting has never been just about performance, it’s about immersion. Over the years, he has portrayed a range of characters with quiet intensity and emotional honesty, but Madhav Mishra from Criminal Justice has been one that has truly stayed with him.

Reflecting on the same, Pankaj Tripathi said, “Madhav Mishra is a character that’s very close to my heart because, in many ways, his journey mirrors my own. Both of us come from humble beginnings in Bihar, moved to Mumbai with big dreams, started with small roles or cases, and gradually carved out our space through hard work and perseverance. That parallel makes playing Madhav feel incredibly natural to me, it’s like slipping into a part of my own story every time I step into his shoes.”

He also added, “Criminal Justice is a gripping legal drama that dives deep into courtroom dynamics and the human side of law. Legal dramas usually have little room for humor, but Madhav Mishra’s personality brings in a subtle, situational kind of comedy. It helps the audience stay engaged, lightens heavy moments, and adds both emotional depth and relatability to the narrative.”

~ Watch Criminal Justice – A Family Matter, now streaming on JioHotstar with new episodes dropping every Thursday~

Pankaj Tripathi pointed out the similarities between Madhav Mishra and himself, started thinking how similar both of them are

One murder, two accused and a three-sided trial! Join Pankaj Tripathi who once again returns as the lovable lawyer Madhav Mishra, this time with his toughest case yet – Criminal Justice: A Family Matter . The season, directed by Rohan Sippy and produced by Applause Entertainment in association with BBC Studios India, is streaming on JioHotstar from 29th May. The season will feature a talented ensemble cast including Mohd Zeeshan Ayyub, Surveen Chawla, Asha Negi, Khushboo Atre, Barkha Singh, Atma Prakash Mishra along with Mita Vashisht and Shweta Basu Prasad in key roles.

For Pankaj Tripathi, acting has not been just a performance but a soulful connection. Over the years, he has portrayed many characters with depth and truth, but Madhav Mishra from Criminal Justice is one character that remains extremely close to his heart.

Reflecting on this, Pankaj Tripathi said,
“Madhav Mishra is very close to my heart because in many ways his journey matches my own. We both came from the simplicity of Bihar, came to Mumbai with big dreams, started with small roles or cases and made our place with hard work and dedication. This similarity makes playing Madhav a natural thing for me, as every time I get into his character, it becomes a part of my own story.”

he adds,
“ Criminal Justice is a riveting legal drama that delves deep into the complexities of the courtroom and the human side of the law. Usually, there is little scope for humour in legal stories, but the spontaneous, situational humour that Madhav Mishra brings to the character keeps the audience engaged, lightens the heavy moments and makes the story emotionally deeper and more heart-rending.”

Chamkili’s Secrets on the Brink of Exposure in Shemaroo Umang’s Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain

In Shemaroo Umang’s show Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain, the drama is heating up as the web of lies spun by Chamkili (played by Ishita Ganguly) threatens to unravel. Viewers have seen how Chamkili has skillfully manipulated the entire haveli through her cunning words and calculated moves. But now, with the recent promo hinting at a massive revelation, it seems her sins are catching up with her.

Will karma finally play its part? Or will Chamkili outsmart everyone once again?

Amidst this unfolding chaos stands Chaina, played by Diksha Dhami—a character who has walked the fine line between right and wrong, not for personal gain but to protect those she loves. She shares, “When I first read the character of Chaina in Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain, I saw someone who wasn’t black or white—but deeply human. She lied, yes, but only to protect her family. Honestly, haven’t we all been there? Sometimes we twist the truth to save a friend or to protect someone’s feelings. My mom always told me that telling the truth is easier than telling a lie, because one lie. leads to a web of lies, complicating situations. This life lesson stayed with me, and through Chaina, I’ve been able to bring those real emotions to the screen.”

Diksha adds, “In our show, we see two very different kinds of people—Chaina, who bends the truth for the sake of others, and then Chamkili, who is so deeply entangled in lies spun for her own gain that redemption feels impossible. It’s a powerful contrast that mirrors real life too—where the intent behind your actions truly defines who you are. Chaina’s journey from a street-smart girl to a fierce voice for justice is close to my heart. And now, as Chamkili’s web of lies starts to unravel, the big question is—will this break her or turn her more dangerous than ever?”

With tensions rising and the stakes higher than ever, viewers can expect Badi Haveli Ki Chhoti Thakurain to deliver one of its most powerful revelations yet. Will Chamkili’s secrets finally come to light?

Undercover & Unstoppable – ‘Ayali’ is coming to take you on a thrilling ride

Chennai, May 30, 2025: Zee Tamil has always been at the forefront of delivering fresh, inspiring, and impactful stories that strike a chord with audiences across Tamil Nadu. The channel continues to raise the bar with yet another compelling addition to its fiction lineup – Ayali. Premiering on June 2nd , Ayali will airing every Monday to Friday at 8:30 PM, only on Zee Tamil.

 Zee Tamil’s new fiction show, Ayali, follows the journey of its bold protagonist, Ayali (played by Tejaswini Gowda). Tejaswini Gowda returns to television in a bold avatar as Ayali, following her widely appreciated performances in Vidhya No.1 and Sundari Neeyum Sundaran Naanum. Ayali is the eldest daughter of her family and runs a school for the children with speech and hearing needs. However, her kindness is often taken for granted by her stepmother and stepsister, and its only her father and grandmother, who stand firmly by her side. But, Ayali leads a double life as an undercover Intelligence Officer, while secretly working to prove her late mother’s innocence. Supporting her in this dangerous mission is her childhood friend and fellow agent Siva (played by Anand Selvam) best known for his role in Ninaithale Inikkum. But can Ayali clear her mother’s name?

 Ayali promises a layered storyline filled with emotional twists, dramatic confrontations, and nail-biting revelations. With a powerful ensemble cast and a suspense-laden plot, the show is poised to become a fan favourite. As Ayali makes its debut on Zee Tamil, expect emotional highs, thrilling twists, and moments of sheer courage that will leave the viewers inspired.

1 Year After ‘Zaroor’, Aparshakti Khurana Returns With Another Melodic Love Letter, ‘Lafzaan’

National, 29th May 2025: After capturing hearts with the success of Zaroor, the ever-versatile singer-actor Aparshakti Khurana returns to strike an emotional chord once again, and this time it’s with the launch of ‘Lafzaan’. The soulful track is about everything we wish we could say, but somehow don’t. It is intimate, unforgettable, and a soulful ode to silence, love, and everything that remains unsaid.

Dropping exactly one year after his much loved single Zaroor, Lafzaan is a continuation of the same emotional honesty and Aparshakti’s journey as a singer-songwriter. With his signature tenderness, he brings those familiar late-night feelings to life that were too big to fit into words. Delving into the emotions of separation, the song expresses everything we often fail to say, especially when it comes to love and longing.

Composed in collaboration between Aparshakti and rising artist Vishav Dhaliwal, and produced by Mir Desai, the composition beautifully blends a contemporary ballad style melody with a soft, desi warmth that evokes a gentle, almost giddaan-like sway. A love letter set to music, the track explores what happens when emotions outgrow language.

Speaking about the track, Aparshakti Khurana shares, “I am overwhelmed by all the love I received for Zaroor, and I’m overjoyed that so many people could relate to the song on a personal level. Similarly, Lafzaan is a deeply personal piece for me, and I’ve always wanted to continue sharing stories grounded in genuine emotion. This is a track about the kind of love that lingers after words run out. I’ve always believed in music that connects deeply, and with Lafzaan, I hope that listeners find comfort in knowing that love doesn’t need loud declarations. Sometimes it’s in the silence, in the Lafzaan we never say.”

Perfect for 2AM thoughts you can’t explain, long nighttime drives, or even lazy Sunday mornings; Lafzaan just gently tugs at your heart with its poetic depth and a soothing vibe.

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.