Category: Entertainment

EXOPLANET, A Mind-Bending Sci-Fi Thriller Executive Produced by The Martian and Project Hail Mary Creator Andy Weir, to Launch Exclusively From Audible November 5th

Andy Weir said, “I’m obsessed with problems, the kind where one person and a lot of math are all that stand between survival and disaster. Benjamin Percy’s writing in Exoplanet takes that and adds a twist that genuinely kept me up at night: what if the people trying to save each other were separated not by distance, but by centuries? You can’t see that story. You have to hear it. The crackle across a five-hundred-year gap, the desperation in a voice that doesn’t know if anyone’s still listening. Anthony, Ariana, and John don’t just perform it; they make you feel every impossible mile between them.”

Marshall Lewy, Head of Audible Content for North America, stated, “Andy Weir’s stories transform rigorous science into big-hearted thrill rides with heart stopping action and intense human emotion. That’s why Andy’s books have sold millions and inspired blockbuster films. With Andy as Executive Producer and Benjamin Percy crafting beautiful scripts specifically for the ear, Exoplanet is built for the audiences who loved Project Hail Mary and The Martian while also giving them something entirely new. Exoplanet has brilliant sound design, three extraordinary performances, and a thrilling mystery at its core. This is the kind of ambitious, only-in-audio storytelling Audible exists to make.”

Audible Announces New Slate of Immersive Audio Thrillers from James Patterson and Michael Connelly

The Roost Relaunches as Podium, a Cross-Platform Podcast Company, and Signs Trisha Paytas’ Just Trish as First Major Partnership Under New Brand

SANTA MONICA, CA – July 24 – Night, the talent management and media company behind some of the internet’s most influential creators, today announced the evolution of its podcast division, The Roost Podcast Network, into Podium – a new video-first, cross platform podcast company built for the next generation of creator-led entertainment. Alongside the launch, Podium announced a new partnership with creator, actress, and podcast host Trisha Paytas, who is bringing her hit podcast Just Trish to the network.  

The launch marks the next chapter for the company following Night’s acquisition of The Roost in 2024, expanding its focus beyond traditional podcasting to support creators building audiences across YouTube, audio platforms, social media, and live experiences. Podium is built around the way audiences consume content today, through personality-driven shows that live across multiple platforms and foster deeply engaged fan communities. 

Home to some of the most influential creator-led shows, including This Past Weekend with Theo Von, Sam & Colby Reacts, The Yard, Weekly Teacap with Kristi Cook, and Just Trish, among others, Podium’s broader roster reaches more than 50 million monthly video and audio impressions and 66 million+ followers across platforms.

“When Night acquired The Roost in 2024, we saw a company that understood something the rest of the industry was just waking up to: that podcasting is video-first, personality-driven, and powered by fandom,” said Reed Duchscher, CEO and Founder of Night. “Two years later, this company has evolved from its origins. Podium is who this team and these creators are today, and there’s no better way to open this chapter than welcoming Trisha, one of the most magnetic influencers on the internet.”

 

Trisha Paytas Brings Just Trish to Podium 

Podium will support the growth of Trisha Paytas’ podcast, Just Trish, leading distribution, audience development, and brand partnerships, building on the company’s work with creator-led podcasts including This Past Weekend with Theo Von and Jeff Wittek’s JeffFM.

Trisha Paytas is a television personality, content creator, and actress with more than 20 million followers across social platforms, known for her lifestyle vlogs, ASMR content, and cosplay videos. Beyond her digital presence, she has also appeared in more than 50 film and television projects including Broadway’s Beetlejuice: The Musical, and HBO’s Euphoria.

Just Trish, launched in 2019, has drawn more than 160 million views for its unfiltered takes on pop culture and entertainment headlines. 

“Just Trish started as me talking about pop culture with my fans, and it turned into the thing I love most,” said Trisha Paytas. “My fans show up for everything, and Podium understands how meaningful that is.”

“Trisha has built a deeply connected and loyal audience who have followed her journey from podcasting to Broadway. For nearly two decades on the internet, Trisha continues to entertain and surprise her audience with her creativity and talent,” said Catherine Browne, VP of Revenue & Partnerships, Podium. “Podium was built for creator-first podcasts that cross multiple platforms, and we’re thrilled to partner with Trisha as we launch this new chapter and continue to expand our slate of female-led and pop culture podcasts.”

Podcasting has evolved beyond a single audio feed. Today’s biggest shows are watched as much as they’re listened to, with audiences following hosts across YouTube, audio platforms, social media, and live tours. “Podcast network” described a business built on audio downloads and ad reads; Podium is built for where the medium is moving, with a roster that helped drive the shift. The new identity and website are live today at: www.PodiumNetwork.Co

Nivin Pauly’s ‘Yezhu Kadal Yezhu Malai’ Arrives on October 1

Chennai, July 21: The wait for actor Nivin Pauly’s much-anticipated Tamil film ‘Yezhu Kadal Yezhu Malai’ is coming to an end, with the makers announcing that the film will hit theatres on October 1.

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Ram, the film has been generating interest among cinema lovers for its distinctive storyline, emotional themes, and creative vision. The project brings together a talented team of artists and technicians, creating anticipation around its theatrical release.

The announcement of the release date has sparked excitement among fans who have been eagerly waiting to experience the film on the big screen. Known for choosing diverse and performance-driven roles, Nivin Pauly is expected to bring another memorable character to audiences through this project.

‘Yezhu Kadal Yezhu Malai’ promises a blend of meaningful storytelling, strong performances, and captivating visuals. The film aims to offer viewers an immersive experience while exploring emotions and relationships through its unique narrative style.

With its October release, the film is set to join the lineup of upcoming theatrical releases and hopes to connect with audiences across regions. The makers are confident that the movie’s story, performances, and cinematic appeal will leave a lasting impression on viewers.

As the release date approaches, expectations continue to grow among fans and film enthusiasts eager to witness Nivin Pauly’s latest cinematic journey.

Swaranjali Delhi to Present “Baithaki Patiala Punjab” in Collaboration with Punjabi University and Kaivalya Patiala

Patiala, Punjab | July 21: Swaranjali Delhi, in collaboration with Punjabi University and Kaivalya Patiala, is set to present “Baithaki Patiala Punjab”, an evening dedicated to the timeless traditions of Indian classical music. The event will take place on 24 July 2026 at 5:00 PM at the Sunny Oberoi Auditorium, Punjabi University, Patiala.

The programme aims to celebrate India’s rich musical heritage by bringing together some of the country’s renowned classical musicians for an immersive cultural experience. Music enthusiasts, students, academicians, and connoisseurs of Indian classical arts are expected to gather for an evening that showcases the depth and diversity of Hindustani classical music.

The concert will feature a captivating Sitar and Flute Duet by acclaimed artists Subrata De and Ustad Mujtaba Hussain, promising an enchanting musical dialogue between two of India’s most expressive classical instruments.

Adding further grandeur to the evening will be a remarkable Tabla Trio performance by Pt. Madhuresh Bhatt, Pt. Siddhartha Chatterjee, and Pt. Jaidev. Their rhythmic mastery is expected to offer audiences an extraordinary demonstration of the richness and versatility of Indian percussion traditions.

Through initiatives such as Baithaki Patiala Punjab, Swaranjali Delhi continues its commitment to preserving, promoting, and popularising India’s classical performing arts by creating platforms that connect eminent artists with audiences across the country. The collaboration with Punjabi University and Kaivalya Patiala further strengthens the shared vision of nurturing cultural appreciation and encouraging younger generations to engage with India’s artistic legacy.

The organisers have extended a cordial invitation to music lovers, students, faculty members, cultural enthusiasts, and the general public to attend this special evening of classical music.

Event Details

• Event: Baithaki Patiala Punjab
• Presented by: Swaranjali Delhi
• In Collaboration with: Punjabi University & Kaivalya Patiala
• Date: 24 July 2026
• Time: 5:00 PM
• Venue: Sunny Oberoi Auditorium, Punjabi University, Patiala

Programme Highlights

• Sitar & Flute Duet: Subrata De and Ustad Mujtaba Hussain
• Tabla Trio: Pt. Madhuresh Bhatt, Pt. Siddhartha Chatterjee and Pt. Jaidev

For Enquiries:

• Prof. Bhiminder Singh (Director): 9910300319
• Dr. Harmohan Sharma: 9888118855

For more information, visit: www.swaranjali.org

‘Lahari’ Wins Best Odia Film Award at 72nd National Film Awards

New Delhi, July 20 (UDN): Amartya Bhattacharyya’s Odia-language film Lahari has been adjudged the Best Odia Film at the 72nd National Film Awards, bringing national recognition to Odisha’s film industry.

The awards, announced by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, honoured films certified by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) during 2024. The recognition marks a significant achievement for Odia cinema and highlights the state’s evolving storytelling tradition.

Directed by Amartya Bhattacharyya, Lahari is known for its unique narrative style and visual presentation. The film explores the life of a fisherman named Dinu and portrays the conflict between tradition and progress while focusing on family relationships and changing social values.

The film features Ahmad Al-Ghaili, Prasanta Kumar Behera, and Jhilik Bhattacharjee in prominent roles and was released in 2025.

At the 72nd National Film Awards, Article 370 was honoured as the Best Feature Film, while Yami Gautam received the Best Actress award for the film. Mammootty and Kartik Aaryan shared the Best Actor honour, while Rajkummar Rao-starrer Srikanth was recognised as the Best Hindi Film.

The honour for Lahari is expected to further strengthen the presence of Odia cinema on the national platform and encourage regional filmmakers to create impactful stories.

Nushrratt Bharuccha Honoured with Best Actress Award at NEXA Indian Streaming Academy Award

Mumbai, July 20: Actor Nushrratt Bharuccha has won the Best Actress award at the NEXA Indian Streaming Academy Awards for her notable performance in the digital entertainment space.

The actor expressed her happiness over the recognition, stating that such honours encourage her to take on new challenges and continue delivering meaningful performances. She highlighted that appreciation from the audience and industry serves as a motivation to keep growing as an artist.

The NEXA Indian Streaming Academy Awards recognised exceptional talent and creative excellence across India’s streaming entertainment industry, celebrating impactful performances and innovative storytelling.

Bharuccha’s achievement marks another significant milestone in her career and reflects the increasing recognition of artists contributing to the growth of digital content in India.

The award further highlights the evolving landscape of streaming platforms and the opportunities they provide for diverse stories and performers.

Colours of India 2026 by Swaranjali Delhi to Celebrate India’s Cultural Diversity in Sri Vijaya Puram

 July 11: Swaranjali Delhi is proud to announce “Colours of India 2026”, a grand cultural extravaganza showcasing the vibrant diversity of Indian classical music, dance, and folk traditions. The event will be held on 13 August 2026 at 5:00 PM at the Tagore Government College of Education Hall , Middle Point, M G Road,  Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, 

The festival aims to bring together artists from different parts of India, creating a platform that celebrates the country’s rich artistic legacy while fostering cultural unity and harmony. 

The evening will commence with an energetic group dance presentation by Vikash Dance Akademi, Port Blair, followed by a distinguished Classical Vocal Recital by Pt. Bhutnath De of Jharkhand, accompanied on tabla by Pt. Susamoy Mishra. Audiences will also witness a captivating Solo Sitar Recital by Vidwan Subrata De, accompanied by Pt. Susamoy Mishra.

The program will further feature performances by Daksh Akademi, Port Blair, an elegant A major highlight of the evening will be the concluding performances by Hakimpara Nritya Malancha, Siliguri, under the guidance of Guru Vidushi Sangita Chaki. The group will present a series of classical and devotional performances including Ganapati Shlokam, Saraswati Shlokam, Durga Kirtanam, Shiva Kirtanam, and Kathak recitals by talented young artistes.

The grand finale, themed “Colours of India,” will take the audience on a cultural journey across the nation through vibrant folk dance traditions representing Bengal, Assam (Bihu), Nepal, Odisha (Sambalpuri), Tripura, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Kashmir, Gujarat, and Punjab. The evening will culminate with a stirring rendition of Vande Mataram by the Hakimpara Nritya Malancha ensemble. 

Anchor: Smt Rashida Iqbal 

“Colours of India 2026” seeks to celebrate India’s cultural plurality and strengthen bonds of peace, unity, and mutual appreciation through the universal language of art and music.  The organizers extend a warm invitation to art enthusiasts, cultural patrons, tourists, students, and residents of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands to be a part of this memorable celebration.

Acknowledgements: The organizers gratefully acknowledge the support of Chairperson -Municipal Council- PortBlair, Tagore Government College of Education- Sri Vijaya Puram, Shri Ayush Raj & Team,  Shri Ajesh Aggarwal & Smt. Sunita Aggarwal ,Smt. Princy ,Shri L. Rajendra , Mr. & Mrs. Ratna Wagh (ABSS Pune), Shri Mridul Nath (RMS Audio Hyderabad), Smt. Ruma Mishra- Dhwani Foundation (Delhi), Shri Debraj & Smt. Mary Das (Jamshedpur), Shri Sanjit Debnath (Maa Tara- Port Blair), Mr. Amit Mishra -RepairnFix (Faridabad) & Locally- Daksh Dance Akademi, Vikash Akademi,  Muktadhara- Sri Vijaya Puram. 

Media Partner: Shreyas Webmedia Solutions, Bhubaneswar  

The Details Program Schedule– 

Opening Group Dance – Vikash Dance Akademi, Port Blair
Classical Vocal Recital – Pt. Bhutnath De (Jharkhand), accompanied by Pt. Susamoy Mishra on Tabla
Solo Sitar Recital – Vidwan Subrata De (Delhi), accompanied by Pt. Susamoy Mishra on Tabla
Group Dance Presentation – Daksh Akademi, Port Blair
Bharatanatyam Recital – Ms. Rajasi Wagh, Pune
Vocal Recital – Mrs. Vineet Talukdar, Port Blair
 Hakimpara NrityaMalancha, Siliguri- The troupe will present a series of classical and devotional performances:
Ganapati Shlokam – Hrishita Das, Doli Mahanta, Kasturi Das Barman, Prakriti Thapa & Shrestha Sarkar
Solo Bharatnatyam – Smt. Rimpi Saha Banik 
Kathak Solo – Avipsha Adhikari
Saraswati Shlokam – Doli Mahanta
Durga Kirtanam – Shrestha Sarkar
Shiva Kirtanam – Kasturi Das Barman
Avata Shyam – Prakriti Thapa
Shiva Kirtanam – Hrishita Das
Kathak Presentation – Guru Vidushi Sangita Chaki
Grand Finale: Colours of India- A vibrant celebration of India’s diverse folk traditions featuring:-
Bangla Folk Dance – Doli Mahanta, Shrestha Sarkar & Avipsha Adhikari
Bihu (Assam) – Sharmistha Das, Moupia Adhikari & Priti Karmakar
Nepali Folk Dance – Prakriti Thapa
Sambalpuri Folk Dance (Odisha) – Hrishita Das & Kasturi Das Barman
Tripura Folk Dance – Avipsha Adhikari
Rajasthani Folk Dance – Shrestha Sarkar & Prakriti Thapa
Marathi Folk Dance – Kasturi Das Barman, Hrishita Das & Doli Mahanta
Kashmiri Folk Dance – Avipsha Adhikari
Gujarati Folk Dance – Sharmistha Das, Moupia Adhikari, Keya Das Barman & Priti Karmakar
Punjabi Folk Dance – Hrishita Das, Kasturi Das Barman, Doli Mahanta & Shrestha Sarkar
Vande Mataram – Grand Finale Presentation by Hakimpara NrityaMalancha, Siliguri. This concluding segment promises to showcase the rich cultural tapestry of India through music, movement, and tradition. 
Anchor- Smt Rashida Iqbal  

RSVP
9910300319 | 9933211868 | 9818300319 | 7695021548

Website: www.swaranjali.org | www.nrityamalancha.com

Veteran Actor Rajesh Sharma Under Medical Observation After Insect Bite During Prabhas Film Shoot

Kolkata, July 9 (UDN): Veteran actor Rajesh Sharma remains under close medical observation after developing serious health complications following a suspected insect bite sustained during the shooting of an upcoming Prabhas-starrer at Hyderabad’s Ramoji Film City.

According to family members, the actor initially ignored the bite as it appeared to be minor. However, his condition deteriorated within hours, with symptoms including high fever and a rapidly spreading infection in his right leg. He was subsequently admitted to a private hospital in Kolkata, where doctors are monitoring his condition. Medical updates indicate that the infection has spread up to his knee, and he remains under intensive care.

The incident has prompted concern within the film industry. The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has sought a high-level inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the medical emergency, calling for a review of workplace safety measures, emergency medical preparedness and health protocols on film sets. The association has also urged the production house to bear the actor’s medical expenses if any lapses are established.

Doctors continue to monitor Sharma’s recovery, while his family has thanked colleagues, well-wishers and members of the film fraternity for their support and prayers. Further updates on his condition are awaited.

‘Hum Bhale Logon Ko Ghar Pahunchate Hain, Par Humein Koi Ghar Nahin Chhodta’: Meet Sandeep Tiwari, the First Common Man Featured on Shekhar Suman’s Show

July 8: Moving away from celebrity conversations, Shekhar Suman has introduced Shekhar Tonite Specials, a new Tuesday segment that puts the spotlight on everyday people and their untold stories. Leading the inaugural episode is Mumbai auto-rickshaw driver Sandeep Tiwari, who becomes the first common man to feature on the show.

Introducing Sandeep, Shekhar described an autorickshaw as a “mirror of society,” saying it carries people from all walks of life, each with their own stories. He then asked the auto driver if he often listened to his passengers’ conversations. 

Sandeep replied with a smile,

“Agar hum kisi ki kahani sunte-sunte kuch bol dein, toh ulta woh hum par hi sawar ho jayenge ki tum rickshaw chala rahe ho ya hamari baatein sun rahe ho.”

However, it was what he said next that became the highlight of the episode. Opening up about the realities of an auto driver’s life, Sandeep said,

 “Hum bhale logon ko ghar pahunchate hain, par humein koi ghar nahin chhod sakta. Agar hum raste mein atak gaye, humein koi haath nahin de sakta. Logon ki problem hum suljha dete hain, lekin hamari problem suljhane wala koi nahin hota.”

His heartfelt words left Shekhar Suman visibly moved as he highlighted the silent struggles of thousands of auto drivers and other working-class people who spend their lives helping others but often have no one to support them. Sandeep also spoke about the hardships faced by the common man and said that despite the challenges, he continues to hold on to hope.

“Bharosa to humein yahi hai ki achhe din aayenge. Kab aayenge, kahan se aayenge, humein nahin maloom,” said Sandeep. To this, Shekhar Suman quipped, “Shayad woh raste ke gaddhon mein kahin phanse pade hain,” using a poignant metaphor to highlight how ordinary people are still waiting for meaningful change.

He added that platforms like Shekhar Suman’s show are important because they finally allow people like him to voice concerns that often go unheard. For someone who represents thousands of everyday workers, the opportunity to speak on global platform was about much more than personal recognition, it was a chance to speak for the common man.

Another touching moment came when Shekhar asked Sandeep about Simran, assuming she might have been a special person in his life. Instead, Sandeep revealed that he considers her his elder sister, ‘Tai’. Their bond began when she booked his auto and gradually grew into one of trust and mutual respect.

Simran recalled an incident during Ganesh Chaturthi when a man repeatedly stared at her while she was travelling in Sandeep‘s auto. Before she could react, Sandeep confronted him, saying,

“Rickshaw mein baithne wale sab hamare liye Bhagwan hain. Koi unhe galat nazar se dekhe, yeh humein bardaasht nahin.”

She also shared that whenever she travels in “Tiwari Ki Sawari,” Sandeep often stops to treat her to a glass of sugarcane juice and never charges her for it. Calling it “niswarth seva,” Shekhar praised his selfless nature.

When asked if he would stand by Simran in times of danger, Sandeep replied,

“Jab tak hum mein jaan hai… jaan bhi de denge.”

Moved by his words, Shekhar said that if more drivers were like Sandeep, women would never have to worry about travelling alone or returning home late, as they would know they were in safe hands.

By featuring Sandeep Tiwari as the first common man on his show, Shekhar Suman turned the spotlight away from celebrity glamour and towards the everyday heroes whose stories are rarely told. More than just an emotional interview, the episode became a reminder that sometimes the most powerful voices belong to ordinary people waiting for the chance to be heard.

Tune in to Shekhar Tonite to watch Sandeep Tiwari in an unfiltered conversation with Shekhar Suman, only on YouTube.