Category: Entertainment

Prime Video Brings Ritwik Pareek’s Critically Acclaimed Film Dug Dug to Global Audiences

Mumbai, July 8 : Prime Video today announced the streaming premiere of Dug Dug, the acclaimed satirical comedy, directed and written by Ritwik Pareek. Produced under the banner of Bottle Rocket Pictures, led by Prerna Pareek and Ritwik Pareek and executive produced by industry heavyweights Anurag Kashyap, Nikkhil Advani, Vikramaditya Motwane and Vasan Bala, the film is now streaming on Prime Video across over 200 territories, taking its uniquely original and thought-provoking story to audiences worldwide, following its celebrated festival run and critical appreciation during its release. Starring Altaf Khan, Gaurav Soni, and Yogendra Singh in lead roles, alongside Durga Lal Saini, Hemant Sharma, Jagdish Prasad Tak, Raju Gujjar, and Priyanka Khandekar in pivotal supporting roles, Dug Dug transforms an improbable incident into a sharp reflection on society’s relationship with belief and blind faith, blending absurdist humour with incisive social commentary through a premise that is as unconventional as it is compelling.

At the centre of the Dug Dug is an alcoholic named Thakur who dies a gruesome death while riding his motorbike on a highway one night. The next morning, his bike vanishes from the police station and reappears at the exact spot where he died. After bizarre incidents, the locals declare him a god and start offering alcohol to his bike. Miraculously, their prayers get answered, and a new commercialized religion spreads like wildfire.

Broadly regarded by critics as an inventive, audacious independent film that balances sharp social commentary with infectious energy and technical polish, Dug Dug stands out for its refusal to mock its subjects while still delivering pointed critique of how faith becomes commodified.

Rajkummar Rao’s Look as Sourav Ganguly Revealed in Upcoming Biopic

Mumbai, July 8: The first-look poster of the upcoming biopic ‘Dada: The Sourav Ganguly Story’ has been released, featuring actor Rajkummar Rao in the role of former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly.

The poster was unveiled on Sourav Ganguly’s birthday and recreates one of the most memorable moments of Indian cricket — his iconic shirtless celebration at Lord’s after India’s victory in the 2002 NatWest Trophy final.

Rajkummar Rao’s appearance as the cricket legend has generated excitement among fans. The film will showcase Sourav Ganguly’s inspiring journey, his rise in international cricket, leadership qualities and contribution to Indian cricket.

The biopic is expected to highlight important milestones from Ganguly’s career and offer audiences a closer look at the life of one of India’s most celebrated cricketers.

Dhurandhar Part I Original Soundtrack Released Following Global Acclaim

July 8 : Dhurandhar Part I released on 5th December 2025 and was recognised as a phenomenal film. It was loved by audiences across the globe, and now, with the release of its Original Soundtrack, fans have something special to cherish.

Timed to coincide with Ranveer Singh’s birthday, the Original Soundtrack brings together the film’s complete background score and musical themes, giving fans a chance to relive the adrenaline and emotion that powered Aditya Dhar’s action drama.

While Hindi films have long released soundtrack albums, it is still relatively uncommon for filmmakers to release a film’s Original Soundtrack as a standalone listening experience after it has struck a chord with audiences. Hollywood has embraced this format for years, but in Bollywood it has largely remained a niche offering, making Dhurandhar Part I’s Original Soundtrack release stand out.

The release also shines a spotlight on Shashwat Sachdev, whose music has emerged as one of the film’s biggest talking points, with several tracks continuing to trend weeks after the film’s release. Having already found listeners across the globe and become a worldwide musical success, the release of the Original Soundtrack now gives fans an even deeper way to experience the world of Dhurandhar  Part I.

Dhurandhar Part I has become one of the biggest game changers in Indian cinema in recent months. Written, directed and produced by Aditya Dhar, and produced by Jyoti Deshpande and Lokesh Dhar, the high-octane action thriller is presented by Jio Studios and produced by B62 Studios, continuing to make a powerful cinematic impact across audiences worldwide.

Kala RASA Parampara Vaibhava Honours Second-Generation Bharatanatyam Artistes Carrying Forward a Timeless Legacy

 Celebrates 55 Years of Artistic Excellence and 40 Years of Natyacharya Excellence of Guru Dr. Ambika Kameshwar

Chennai, July 08: Kala RASA Parampara Vaibhava, presented by RASA ARPITA, concluded on a grand note at Rukmini Arangam, celebrating 55 years of artistic excellence and 40 years of Natyacharya excellence of Guru Dr. Ambika Kameshwar. The landmark event honoured second-generation Bharatanatyam artistes carrying forward their Gurus’ artistic legacies while showcasing the transformative power of inclusive arts through moving performances by visually impaired and intellectually challenged artistes.

The evening reflected Guru Dr. Ambika Kameshwar’s enduring philosophy that art is not merely to be performed, but to be lived, shared, and passed on across generations. A defining highlight of the celebration was the felicitation of distinguished second-generation Bharatanatyam artistes including Smt. Sukanya Ravindhar (Smt. Chitra Visweswaran’s Chidambaram Academy of Performing Arts, Chennai), Sri C. P. Satyajit (Bharata Kalanjali), and Smt. Aruna Rengasamy (Ramana Natyalaya) in recognition of their commitment to preserving and carrying forward their Gurus’ artistic vision. The honours celebrate artistes who uphold the Guru–Shishya Parampara and ensure its continuity across generations.

Among the most unforgettable moments of the evening were Anbu, a deeply moving presentation by the visually challenged artistes of Shri Ramana Maharishi Academy for the Blind, Bengaluru, an outreach centre of RASA and the very first space where Dr. Ambika Kameshwar began her pioneering work with persons with special needs, and Margazhi Mahimai, a heartfelt presentation by the RASA Stars, artistes with intellectual disabilities. While Anbu transcended technical excellence to become a profound expression of love, resilience, and the limitless power of the human spirit, leaving many in the audience visibly moved and in tears, both presentations together reaffirmed RASA’s enduring belief that art knows no barriers and has the power to unite, uplift, and transform lives.The celebration was graced by Padma Vibhushan Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam, renowned musician Sri Rajkumar Bharathi, senior artistes, scholars, disciples and distinguished members of the arts fraternity, whose presence reflected the immense respect and admiration Guru Dr. Ambika Kameshwar commands across the cultural landscape.

Speaking at the celebration, Padma Vibhushan Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam said, “Training any student is a challenge, but training visually challenged students requires extraordinary patience, dedication, and compassion. Dr. Ambika Kameshwar has done a truly remarkable job. If these children were to perform alongside other students, one would hardly be able to distinguish them. Their performance in Anbu reflected the utmost perfection and rigorous training imparted by the Guru. I was moved to tears watching them. That is the true essence of Rasa, when a performance touches the heart so deeply. These children are truly blessed to have been nurtured under Guru Dr. Ambika Kameshwar.”

Speaking on the occasion, Sri Rajkumar Bharathi said “A smile is often the reflection of one’s inner world, and Dr. Ambika Kameshwar’s smile reflects boundless optimism. She has always chosen to say ‘Yes’ to life, and in doing so, she has taught others to do the same. Her positive outlook has transformed not just artistes but entire families, giving them confidence, happiness, and a renewed sense of purpose. Few people leave behind such a legacy of smiles, hope, and human connection.”

The event served as more than a celebration of milestones. It became a heartfelt acknowledgement of a living legacy that continues to inspire generations of artistes and art lovers. As disciples gathered around their beloved Guru in gratitude, they reaffirmed a collective commitment to preserving this rich artistic heritage and ensuring that its transformative power reaches generations to come.

Kala RASA Parampara Vaibhava concluded as an inspiring celebration of artistic lineage, devotion, and continuity, reaffirming that the true essence of a Guru’s legacy lies in the hearts, lives, and artistic journeys of her disciples.

PVR INOX Brings the Season’s Biggest Stories to Its Premium Large Format Screens

July 7: PVR INOX Limited, India’s largest and most premium cinema exhibition company, has unveiled ‘Big Stories Deserve Big Screens’, a month-long nationwide initiative spotlighting its Premium Large Formats . Running throughout July, the initiative celebrates the unmatched impact of the theatrical experience, encouraging audiences to discover July’s biggest releases in formats that deliver extraordinary scale, clarity and cinematic brilliance.

With a highly anticipated line-up including Minions & Monsters, Alpha, Moana, Evil Dead Burn, The Odyssey and Spider-Man: Brand New Day, the initiative reinforces that the biggest stories deserve to be seen on the big screen where every frame is grander, every sound more powerful and every cinematic moment more unforgettable.

PVR INOX offers IMAX , ICE Theatres, SCREENX , 4DX/MX4D and BIGPIX/P , each delivering a distinct way to enjoy cinema through advanced projection technologies, immersive sound, panoramic presentation, motion-enabled seating and extra-large screens, allowing audiences to choose the format that best complements every film.

Speaking about the campaign, Mr. Gautam Dutta, CEO – Revenue & Operations, PVR INOX Limited, said,

“Cinema has always been defined by the experience it creates, and today that experience has become the strongest differentiator. As storytelling grows more ambitious, audiences are increasingly choosing theatres that offer scale, immersion and a deeper emotional connection with every film. At PVR INOX, our continued investment in Premium Large Formats reflects this shift in consumer expectations. ‘Big Stories Deserve Big Screens’ is our way of showcasing how the right exhibition technology can transform every film into a truly unforgettable cinematic experience while reaffirming our commitment to bringing the best of global cinema technology to Indian audiences.”

As audiences increasingly seek richer, experience-led entertainment, the initiative also aims to build greater awareness of Premium Large Formats while helping moviegoers identify the format best suited to every film. It reflects PVR INOX’s continued investment in world-class exhibition technologies, reinforcing its position as India’s leading destination for premium cinema.

Tickets for Premium Large Format screenings are available on PVR/INOX App or Website throughout the campaign period.

‘Alpha’ Opens to Mixed Audience Response; Action, Performances and Hrithik Roshan’s Cameo Win Praise

Mumbai, July 3 (UDN): “Alpha”, the first female-led film in the YRF Spy Universe starring Alia Bhatt and Sharvari, has opened to a mixed response from audiences on its release day, with viewers praising the action sequences and performances while expressing divided opinions on the film’s story and screenplay.

Directed by Shiv Rawail, the spy thriller features Bobby Deol as the antagonist and Anil Kapoor in a key role. Early reactions on social media suggest that the film’s slick action choreography, high production values and the performances of Alia Bhatt and Sharvari have been widely appreciated. Sharvari, in particular, has drawn praise for her action scenes and screen presence.

However, audience opinions remain divided over the screenplay and narrative. While many viewers welcomed the film as a fresh addition to the YRF Spy Universe, others felt the storyline lacked the emotional depth and gripping pace expected from a high-profile espionage thriller. Comparisons with the “Dhurandhar” franchise have also surfaced online, with some moviegoers suggesting that Alpha falls short in terms of storytelling and narrative intensity.

One of the biggest talking points has been the special appearance of Hrithik Roshan as Major Kabir, whose cameo has received an enthusiastic response from fans and is being described as one of the film’s standout moments. The surprise appearance has generated excitement about future developments in the interconnected YRF Spy Universe.

As the first woman-led spy thriller in the franchise, Alpha marks a significant expansion of the YRF Spy Universe. Industry observers are now closely watching its opening weekend box office performance to assess whether positive word-of-mouth can offset the mixed initial reviews and translate into strong collections.

GuruDiksha 2026 – A Musical Evening of Gratitude Dedicated to Tabla Maestro Ustad Rafiuddin Sabri

New Delhi | July 03: Saaz-O-Awaaz Music Society proudly presents GuruDiksha 2026, a prestigious celebration of the sacred Guru–Shishya Parampara, dedicated to the internationally acclaimed Tabla Maestro Ustad Rafiuddin Sabri. The event will be held on Tuesday, 14th July 2026, at 7:00 PM at the Stein Auditorium, India Habitat Centre, Lodhi Road, New Delhi.

GuruDiksha 2026 is a heartfelt musical offering by the disciples of Ustad Rafiuddin Sabri Ji, celebrating the timeless values of the Guru–Shishya Parampara. The festival is organised collectively by all the disciples of Ustad Rafiuddin Sabri Ji and is curated by the young and noted Tabla player, Shri Ujith Udaya Kumar, an accomplished disciple of the maestro.

Under the artistic direction of Ujith Udaya Kumar, GuruDiksha has grown into a distinguished platform that brings together legendary maestros and promising young talents, preserving and promoting the rich heritage of Indian classical music while paying tribute to the invaluable role of the Guru.

This year’s edition reflects that vision by presenting:

* Sitar Recital by Eminent Maestro Pandit Purbayan Chatterjee, accompanied by Internationally Acclaimed Tabla Maestro Ustad Rafiuddin Sabri.
* Tabla Solo by Master Abdul Razzaq Khan.
* Vocal Recital by Mohammad Amaan Khan (Bandish Bandits – Season 1 fame), accompanied by Shri Ujith Udaya Kumar (Tabla) and Shri Lalit Sisodia (Harmonium).

This unique presentation beautifully symbolizes the continuity of India’s musical heritage, where legendary maestros and the next generation of artists share the same stage in celebration of devotion, tradition, and excellence. 

The event is organised with the support of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and the Sangeet Natak Akademi.

The organisers proudly acknowledge the generous support of their partners:

* Title Sponsor: Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC)
* Gold Sponsor: Oleevia Grameen Credits
* Supported By: Panicker’s Travel and Rabab Musical Store

Speaking about the event, Ujith Udaya Kumar, Organiser of GuruDiksha 2026 and disciple of Ustad Rafiuddin Sabri, said:

“GuruDiksha is my humble tribute to my Guru and to the eternal Guru–Shishya Parampara. Every edition is an effort to bring together legends and emerging artists on one stage, inspiring the next generation while expressing our deepest gratitude through music. We warmly invite everyone to join us for this memorable celebration.”

Music lovers, students, artists, cultural enthusiasts, and members of the media are cordially invited to be part of this inspiring evening dedicated to India’s classical music heritage.

Event Details

Event: GuruDiksha 2026
Date: Tuesday, 14th July 2026
Time: 7:00 PM onwards
Venue: Stein Auditorium, India Habitat Centre, Lodhi Road, New Delhi

Organised by: Saaz-O-Awaaz Music Society

Media Contact

Ujith Udaya Kumar
Organiser – GuruDiksha 2026
Saaz-O-Awaaz Music Society

“A celebration of music, mentorship, and gratitude—where tradition is passed from one generation to the next.”

Aamir Khan Reportedly Set to Marry Gauri Spratt; Private Ceremony Expected

Laugh a little louder with Welcome To The Jungle

Work calls. Endless Traffic jams. Busy with notifications. By the time the weekend arrives, most of us are looking for one thing, a reason to laugh. That’s where Welcome To The Jungle has found its audience.

July 02: The Akshay Kumar-led comedy isn’t asking viewers to solve a mystery or sit through an intense drama. This isn’t that film. It simply throws them into two hours of comic confusion, outrageous situations and a cast that’s clearly having as much fun as the audience.

The biggest surprise has been the reaction inside theatres. Reviewers and moviegoers alike have pointed to one thing – people are laughing together. Children are giggling at the visual comedy, parents are enjoying the one-liners, and fans of the original Welcome are smiling at the nostalgia packed into the film.

Akshay Kumar is right at the centre of the madness, slipping effortlessly between action and comedy. His chemistry with Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal has become one of the film’s biggest talking points, while Johnny Lever, Rajpal Yadav, Krushna Abhishek and Kiku Sharda keep the laughs coming with perfectly timed comic moments. Add a barrage of mistaken identities, running gags and self-aware references to classic Akshay entertainers.

Perhaps that’s why families have embraced it. In an age of dark thrillers and larger-than-life action spectacles, Welcome To The Jungle is happy being exactly what it promises – an entertainer that lets audiences switch off for a couple of hours.

There’s an old saying that laughter is the best medicine. No film can make deadlines disappear or traffic move faster. But if it leaves you forgetting your week for a couple of hours and walking out of the theatre smiling, it’s done its job.

Judging by the cheers, laughter and repeat recommendations coming from cinema halls, Welcome To The Jungle is proving to be just the prescription audiences were looking for this weekend.

Directed by Ahmed Khan, the film brings together a formidable ensemble including Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Disha Patani, Jacqueline Fernandez, Arshad Warsi, Jackie Shroff, Paresh Rawal, Raveena Tandon, Lara Dutta, Farida Jalal, Johny Lever, Shreyas Talpade, Tusshar Kapoor, Rajpal Yadav, Krushna Abhishek, Kiku Sharda, Daler Mehndi, Aftab Shivdasani, Mukesh Tiwari, Yashpal Sharma, Kiran Kumar, Zakir Hussain, Vindu Dara Singh, Urvashi Rautela, Hemant Pandey, Brijendra Kala, Feroze Khan (Arjun), Late Pankaj Dheer Ji, Puneet Issar, Sudesh Berry, Jeetu Verma, Vrihi Kodvara, Adityaa Singgh and Bhagya Bhanushali.

An Ahmed Khan entertainer, Welcome To The Jungle is presented by A.A. Nadiadwala, Cape of Good Films and Star Studio18 in association with Seeta Films and Rakesh Dang. The film is a Base Industries Group Production, produced by Rakesh Dang and Vedant Vikaas Baali, and produced by Firoz A. Nadiadwallah.

The film released in cinemas worldwide on 26th June 2026.

Swaranjali Delhi Unveils ‘Colours of India 2026’ – A Grand Cultural Showcase in Sri Vijaya Puram

June 29: Swaranjali Delhi, one of India’s renowned cultural organizations dedicated to promoting Indian classical arts, proudly celebrates its 25th year of cultural excellence with the presentation of “Colours of India 2026”, a spectacular evening showcasing India’s rich heritage through classical music and dance.

The event will take place on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at 5:00 PM at the Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Auditorium, Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman & Nicobar Islands (744101).

“Colours of India 2026” promises to be a vibrant celebration of India’s diverse artistic traditions, bringing together distinguished musicians, accomplished dancers, and emerging talents from across the country. The cultural showcase aims to preserve, promote, and celebrate India’s timeless classical art forms while fostering cultural unity and artistic excellence.

The event is organized in collaboration with SIVAR and features an impressive lineup of celebrated artists and dance ensembles, offering audiences an immersive experience of India’s colorful cultural landscape.

Distinguished Artists & Performing Groups

• Bhutnath De
• Guru Vidushi Sangita Chaki
• Susamoy Mishra
• Subrata De
• Rajasi Wagh
• Priyanka Vineet
• Rimpi Saha
• Hrishita Das
• Doli Mahanta
• Kasturi Das Barman
• Prakriti Thapa
• Shrestha Sarkar
• Avipsha Adhikari
• Priti Karmakar
• Sharmistha Das
• Moupia Adhikari
• Hakimpada Nrityamalancha
• Vikash Dance Akademi
• Daksh Dance Akademi
• Mukta Dhara

The event also acknowledges the valuable contributions of its supporting partners and collaborators, including:

• ABSS Pune: Hemant Wagh & Ratna Wagh
• RMS Audio: Mridul Nath
• Dhwani Foundation: Ruma Mishra
• Art Design: Debraj Das
• Makeup & Costume: Kabita De & Seema De
• RepairInFix: Amit Mishra
• Digital Media: Neel Acharya
• Hospitality & Management: Ajay & Sunita Aggarwal, Princy L. Rajendra, Ayush Raj, Maa Tara Travels (Port Blair)

The evening will be gracefully hosted by Smt. Sikha Nath, who will serve as the event announcer.

The organizers warmly invite art lovers, cultural enthusiasts, students, families, and members of the public to witness this grand celebration of India’s performing arts and be a part of an unforgettable cultural evening.

Event Details

Event: Colours of India 2026
Presented by: Swaranjali Delhi (Celebrating 25 Years)
In Association with: SIVAR
Date: Thursday, August 13, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM onwards
Venue: Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Auditorium, Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman & Nicobar Islands – 744101

Media Partner: Shreyas Webmedia Solutions

Contact

Swaranjali Delhi
Phone: 99103 00319

Nrityamalancha Siliguri
Phone: 94340 06943

Websites:

• www.swaranjali.org
• www.nrityamalancha.com
• www.abssindia.org