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Happy birthday to veteran actress Wahida Rehmanji 23 Mar 5:37 PM (18 days ago)

Happy birthday to Wahida Rehman. The viewers of Bollywood films wish happy birthday to veteran actress Wahida Rehman on 3rd February, 2025. Wahida Rehman was known for her combination with actor director Guru Dutt. From 1957, the viewers saw thoughtful Guru Dutt in films like Pyaasa and Kagaz Ka Phool. Both the films were based on eternal truth. Pyasa was related to recognition of a poet in a materialistic world. Kagaz Ka Phool was related to story of directors and performers in celluloid, their rise and their fall due to ungratefulness of opportunists in society. The music composed by SD Burman in both these films were of high standard. Wahida Rehman balanced the thoughtful acting of Guru Dutt in these films. Also the lyrics of Sahir Ludhiyanvi were very meaningful. The notable songs included “yeh mahalon yeh takhton yeh tajon ki duniya”, “sar jo tera”, “bichar gaya bari bari” sung by Rafi, “waqt ne kiya kya haseen sitam” sung by Geeta Dutt, to name a few. It was very unfortunate that Guru Dutt did not receive the filmfare award for the best actor for his thoughtful performance in the film Pyaasa. Guru Dutt and Wahida Rehman’s onscreen chemistry was accepted by viewers in the film Chaudavi Ka Chand. The title song “chaudavi ka chand ho, ya aaftab ho” sung by Rafi and composed by Ravi can be considered as one of the ten best ghazals composed in the history of bollywood music. Guru Dutt bought colour in the song sequence. The film did great business. It was listed in the top five grosser of bollywood after Mughal-i-Azam, Kohinoor and Barsaat Ki Raat in the year 1960. Guru Dutt as an actor did great job in films like Bharosa, Saheb Bibi Aur Ghulam, Saanz Aur Sawera, etc. His early demise in the mid-60s led to huge loss in the film industry as his works were filled with deep thoughts. In the 1960s Wahida Rehman acted in super hit films one after the other. Her successful films included Ram Aur Shyam, Dil Diya Dard Liya opposite Tragedy King Dilip Kumar, Patthat Ke Sanam opposite Manoj Kumar, Teesri Kasam opposite Raj Kapoor, Guide opposite Dev Anand, Dharti opposite Rajender Kumar to name a few. The viewers pay respect to legendary actress Wahida Rehman on her birthday and want the restoration of her works to acknowledge her creativity as actress and versatility.

Saira Banuji Rajender Kumarji and Shankar Jaikishanji resulted in magic 8 Mar 5:57 PM (last month)

Rajender Kumarji and Saira Banuji Rajender Kumar, better known as Jubilee Kumar, had acted in memorable films in the 60s, ranging from Mere Mehboob, to Sangam, Aarzoo to Suraj, etc. During that span he had acted with all the leading actresses of bollywood films including Vaijayantimala, Sadhna, Meena Kumari, Wahida Rehman, etc. His combination with Saira Banu was well accepted by the viewers. Most of their films became successful and did very good business during the 60s. Their film Ayee Milan Ki Bela was a romantic film with melodious songs composed by Shankar Jaikishan. The memorable songs sung by Rafi and Lata include “to bura man gaye”, “o sanam tere ho gaye hum”, “aha aye Milan ki bela dekho aye”, “tum khamseen ho”, “mai pyar ka diwana”, to name a few. Dharmender got a supporting role in the form of brother of Rajender Kumar. He also did well in the film. Their film Jhuk Gaya Aasman was based on reincarnation. Rajender Kumar met with an accident and took the place another person who had huge property. The other Rajender Kumar was subject to conspiracy Prem Chopra and others who were interested to take his property. Music again played a notable role with Shankar Jaikishan providing westernized tunes for Rafi and Lata. The hit songs sung by Rafi and Lata included “o priya, kaun hai jo sapno me aya”, “saccha hai ghar”, “kahan chal diye”, to mention a few. The popularity of Rajender Kumar and Saira Banu contributed a lot for the success of the film. Rajender Nath, the brother of Prem Nath did well as a relief character. The film which was less known involving Rajender Kumar and Saira Banu, included Aman. The film was based on the victims of Second World War. Rajender Kumar was a doctor and went to Hiroshima and Nagasaki to treat the victims who got infected due to hurling of Atom Bomb during the Second World War. Rajender Kumar went there against the wishes of his father played by Balraj Sahani. There he met Saira Banu and got involved with her. The film depicted the damage that caused in most parts of Japan including the population and their property. It was not a romantic film in that sense. But the music of Shankar Jaikishan again appreciated by the audience. The notable songs included “surahidar garden, koel si hi awaaz”, “aaj ki raat”, etc. Rajender Kumar died at the end of the film. The films of Jubilee Kumar and Saira Banu should be restored for the next generation as their romantic pair provided entertaining performances in the 60s.

Happy birthday to Mr Perfectionist star Amir Khan 8 Mar 5:55 PM (last month)

Happy birthday to Mr. Perfectionist Star Amir Khan. The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to Mr. Perfectionist and Committed Star Aamir Khan on 14th of March, 2025. He has proved himself as one of the most committed actors of modern bollywood films. He also carried on the legacy of Tragedy King Dilip Kumar of acting in less number of films and meaningful films. In 2016 his film Dangal broke all records and did business of more than 380 crores. These days whenever Amir Khan’s films are released they end up being blockbusters.

He started his career with the hit film Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak in 1988 opposite Juhi Chawla. His film had brought back the era of romantic films, after bollywood was loaded with action films for more than 20 years. The music of Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak composed by Anand Milind and majority of songs sung by Udit Narayan and Alka Yagnik created history. The popular songs included “aye mere humsafar”, “papa kehte hai”, etc. The film did excellent business and Amir Khan became a star at the early part of his career. From that time onwards Amir Khan acted in many romantic films like Hum Hai Rahi Pyar Ke, opposite Juhi Chawla, Ishq opposite Juhi Chawla, Dil opposite Madhuri Dixit, Mann opposite Manisha Koirala. Being a relative of Nasir Hussain, Amir Khan showed his acting skills from the beginning of his career. He gave able lips in most of the songs of Udit Narayan and with passage of time showed his versatility in different types of films. He did extremely well in Ashutosh Gowarikar’s film Lagaan. Lagaan was based on the story of Indian farmers entering into a challenge with the British Govt. during the colonial rule. A cricket match was held between the British team and the Indian peasants. The condition was that if the Indians won it, the farmers would be excused of the share of produce that they supposed to give the landlords and the British Govt. of such. Amir Khan gave training to the rural Indians and ultimately won the match amidst odds. Amir Khan was sublime in his performance in patriotic film based on the life Mangal Pandey and he did an excellent job in the film Sarfarosh. Even as a director he showed innovative vision by making a film on the subject related to children. The film Taren Zameen Par showed that every child in the world is special. They have their innovative qualities. The job of the teachers and the academicians should be to unearth their skills The songs in the film composed by Shankar Ehsaan Loy were also sensational. Even in 2008, Amir Khan’s film Ghajini was remarkable in nature. He played the role of a person who lost his memory every 20 minutes. He took revenge against the murder of his girlfriend, but he did it with his limitation in respect of the lost memory. He had played probably the role of his career. He came out with even greater hit film in 2009, The 3 idiots. The film had done more than 200 crores business till now. Even more than that the film directed by Raj Kumar Hirani, had a serious social message to give. The message is that the parents should not overburden the students with their own choices. Students should be allowed to specialize in the line they love and enjoy. Although filmfare awards had not been fare to Amir Khan, it does not matter for Amir Khan at all. He is the actor of the refined section of audience and will remain there for periods to come. In 2010, his venture Peepli Live had been ably appreciated by the critics and the audience as a whole. In 2011, his film Dhobi Ghaat did well in most part of India. He had acted well in the film. He also requested hall owners not to give break in the film, because it takes away the concentration in the film. Talash released in 2012 showed the intensity with which Amir Khan played the role of investigating officer who lost his own son who drowned in water. Amir Khan’s Dhoom 3 released in 2013 did business of more than 280 crores. In 2014 his film PK destroyed all records and did business of more than 330 crores. Raj Kumar Hirani directed the film, and Aamir Khan did a brilliant job in the film. He is a very cultured actor and the viewers have lot of hope on the thoughtful personality for innovative ventures in the years to come.

In 2 weeks Vicky Kaushal's Chaava done 600 crores worldwide business with 500 crores business in India 1 Mar 9:14 PM (last month)

In 3 days Vicky Kaushal's Chaava did 112 crores business in India and 150 crores business worldwide. Due to brilliant acting of Vicky Kaushal and Ashay Khanna the film Chaava did 70 crores business in India in 2 days and 25 crores in other countries to do 95 crores worldwide. It is going to be a blockbuster film.Chhaava (lit. transl. Lion's Cub) is a 2025 Indian Hindi-language historical action film based on the life of Sambhaji, the second ruler of the Maratha kingdom, played by Vicky Kaushal. It is an adaptation of the Marathi novel Chhava by Shivaji Sawant. Directed by Laxman Utekar and produced by Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films, the film also stars Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna. Pre-production began in April 2023 and filming commenced in October 2023 and ended in May 2024. The film score and soundtrack album are composed by A. R. Rahman while the lyrics are written by Irshad Kamil and Kshitij Patwardhan. It was theatrically released on 14 February 2025 in standard and IMAX formats. Plot Following the death of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, news reaches Aurangzeb’s court. His advisers anticipate the collapse of Maratha resistance, while Aurangzeb, though acknowledging the loss of a formidable enemy, orders a celebration. However, leadership has already passed to Sambhaji, Shivaji’s son. Burhanpur, a key Mughal administrative and commercial center, faces a sudden Maratha attack. The defenders, unprepared, are overwhelmed by the onslaught. In the midst of battle, Sambhaji falls into a pit where he faces a lion. Overpowering the beast, he kills it with his bare hands. The Marathas seize the Mughal treasury, directly challenging imperial authority. As reports arrive in Delhi, Aurangzeb realizes that the Maratha resistance remains intact. He initiates a vast military campaign to crush them. Meanwhile, factional intrigue grows within the Maratha court, with conspirators attempting to install Rajaram, Sambhaji’s stepbrother, as ruler. Aurangzeb’s forces advance, and the atrocities committed under his command are briefly noted. Diplomatic negotiations unfold as Mughal prince Mirza Akbar seeks Sambhaji’s assistance in rebelling against Aurangzeb. While skeptical, Sambhaji uncovers covert communications between the prince and his stepmother. A conspiracy to overthrow him is revealed, and the traitors are executed beneath an elephant’s crushing weight. Recognizing the superior numbers of the Mughal army, Sambhaji employs guerrilla tactics. The Deccan’s challenging terrain proves disastrous for the Mughals, causing heavy losses. Aurangzeb, having vowed to remain uncrowned until Sambhaji is defeated, faces increasing difficulty. His daughter, Zinat-un-Nissa, attempts to capture her estranged brother Mirza Akbar, but the Marathas foil the ambush. Internal dissent weakens Sambhaji’s ranks as jagirdars defect to the Mughals. Betrayed by his brothers-in-law, his location is exposed. The Mughals launch a surprise assault, encircling the Marathas. Despite fierce resistance, Sambhaji is captured. Taken before Aurangzeb, he refuses to submit. He is brutally tortured but does not renounce his ideals. Aurangzeb, facing mounting revolts, offers him a chance to surrender. Sambhaji remains defiant, declaring that the struggle for Swaraj has spread across the empire. As he perishes, Rajaram ascends, and the resistance continues. The film ends with the Marathas’ eventual triumph, as the Mughal Empire collapses within three decades, leading to the establishment of Indian Swaraj. Cast Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Rashmika Mandanna as Yesubai Bhonsale Akshaye Khanna as Aurangzeb Ashutosh Rana as Hambirrao Mohite Diana Penty as Zinat-un-Nissa Begum Divya Dutta as Soyarabai Vineet Kumar Singh as Kavi Kalash Santosh Juvekar as Rayaji Malge Alok Nath as Somaji Kiran Karmarkar as Annaji Datto Sachiv Balaji Manohar as Mhaloji Anil George as Muqarrab Khan Neelkante Patekar as Dharau Sarang Sathaye as Ganoji Shirke Suvrat Joshi as Kanhoji Shirke Ankit Anil Sharma as Santaji Ghorpade Ashish Pathode as Antaji Mankeshwar Gandhe Shubhankar Ekbote as Dhanaji Jadhav Siraj Mustafa as Bahadur Khan Shivraj Walvekar as Bahirji Naik Manoj Kolhatkar as Balaji Avaji Chitnis Danish Pandor as Ikhlas Khan Rohit Pathak as Kakkad Khan Sanjeev Jaiswal as Jhaalad Sukwinder Singh as Khan Zamaan Lavi Pajni as Shaubuddin Firozjang Trishan Singh as Shehzaada Ajjam Ruffy Khan as Shehzaada Maujjam Rakesh Theraja as Sarja Khan Akshay Anand Kohli as Rahulla Khan Ajay Devgn as the narrator (voice)[5] Production Development and pre-production "Everyone knows about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, but no one knows about Chatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. He had such great courage and was a great warrior, but sadly no one knows about it. During the pandemic [COVID-19], when I read about Sambhaji Maharaj, I realised he is such a big character, and why are we not talking about his life? That's when I started writing and the idea of Chhaava came to me." — Laxman Utekar, during an interview with India Today[6] In 2021, Laxman Utekar told Dinesh Vijan that he wanted to make a film with Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna.[7] In December 2022, it was reported that Utekar was working on a historical biopic,[8] based on the Marathi novel Chhava by Shivaji Sawant.[1] After completing script in January 2023, pre-production for the film began in April, and principal photography starting in October.[9][10][11] Utekar and his team spent a year researching the 17th-century Maratha era, travelling to historical towns like Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Ratnagiri, Pune, Nashik, and Paithan.[12] Costume designer Sheetal Sharma sourced authentic Paithani sarees and restored 500-year-old borders for Rashmika Mandanna's character, Yesubai. The sourcing process included visits to Paithan and Narayanpeth to obtain authentic Pathani and Narayanpeth sarees. Additional accessories were gathered from Kolhapur, Sawantwadi, and Ratnagiri.[13] Subrata Chakraborty and Amit Ray recreated jewellery and the sword Bhavani, drawing references from museums in London. Vicky Kaushal's portrayal of Sambhaji was based on historical busts and statues to ensure accuracy.[14] A. R. Rahman was roped in to compose the score.[15] The film was officially announced on 3 October 2023, when Maddock Films revealed its upcoming slate of theatrical releases, including the release date for Chhaava.[16][17] Casting and filming Laxman Utekar discussed his upcoming film with Vicky Kaushal during the shoot of Zara Hatke Zara Bachke (2023).[18] In January 2023, Utekar confirmed that Kaushal would portray Sambhaji, marking their second collaboration following Zara Hatke Zara Bachke.[19] Kaushal would be reportedly receiving a ₹10 crore (US$1.2 million) remuneration.[20] Utekar mentioned that Kaushal would undergo four months of training in sword fighting, horse riding, and that shooting would begin once they were satisfied with his preparation.[19] In August 2023, it was reported that Marathi actor Santosh Juvekar would play a pivotal role in the film.[21] He was originally cast as Ganoji Shirke, but later, director Laxman Utekar met with him in his office and offered him the role of Rayaji Malge instead.[22] During the same month, Juvekar and Kaushal underwent horse riding training in the Mumbai suburbs.[21] During trailer launch, Kaushal revealed that he was trained in sword, stick, and spear fighting for 6-7 months. He also gained 25 kg weight for the role.[23] During shooting in Raigad a set was constructed for the scene depicting Chhatrapati Sambhaji's ascension to the throne, featuring an eight-sided throne.[24] By October 2023, it was reported that Kaushal had started his preparations for the film alongside co-star Rashmika Mandanna.[25] Mandanna would be reportedly receiving ₹4 crore (US$460,000) remuneration.[26] The same month, Ashutosh Rana and Divya Dutta join cast as Hambirrao Mohite and Soyarabai, respectively.[27] Rana would be reportedly receiving ₹80 lakh (US$92,000) remuneration.[20] Dutta later discussed her portrayal in an interview with Mid-Day in December 2024.[28][29] On 4 December 2023, Pradeep Rawat joined the film's cast.[30] Mandanna wrapped up her portion of filming in January 2024, while Kaushal resumed filming in Wai on 9 March 2024, continuing until 6 April 2024.[31][32] On 23 April 2024, Santosh Juvekar completed his portions.[33][34] Earlier in the production process, the team had approached Anil Kapoor for the role of Aurangzeb,[35] but in October 2023, Akshaye Khanna joined the cast in the role instead.[36] He would be reportedly receiving ₹2 crore (US$230,000) for his remuneration.[20] Diana Penty joined the film in the role of Zinat-un-Nissa Begum.[37] Principal photography for the film wrapped in May 2024.[38][39] Initially, Utekar had approached Marathi actor Ashok Shinde for a negative role, but Shinde declined the offer due to a scheduling conflict with his existing contract with Zee, as he revealed in a November 2024 interview with ItsMajja.[40] Post-production After filming concluded in May 2024, the movie entered post-production.[15] On 11 February 2025, Pinkvilla reported that Ajay Devgn was hired to provide a voiceover for the film, completing his dubbing in the final week.[41] On 1 February 2025, the film was granted a U/A 16+ certification by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), with a runtime of 161 minutes and 50 seconds. The CBFC required certain modifications, including the replacement of dialogues in the first half and the removal of a scene featuring Maratha warriors in sarees. Additionally, the CBFC requested the inclusion of an audio-text disclaimer, mentioning the book the film is adapted from and clarifying that it does not aim to defame anyone or distort historical facts.

Happy birth anniversary to legendary actor Pran Sahab 22 Feb 5:23 PM (last month)

The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birth anniversary to Pran Sikand, the legendary actor on 12th February, 2025. He expired few years ago but kept a great legacy of villain over a decade of 50 years. He was one of indispensable personality in bollywood films without whom most of the films of the 50s and 60s could not be thought about. He also was a big star who was as popular as an antihero as the leading stars of 50s and 60s including Showman Raj Kapoor and Tragedy King Dilip Kumar. Pran had acted in more than 300 films in his career which spanned over 60 years. He was a notorious dacoit in Raj Kapoor’s Jis Desh Me Ganga Behti Hai, who was reformed and persuaded to surrender before the police at the end of the film. He hammered Dilip Kumar all along the film Dil Diya Dard Liya, not knowing his identity. It was later known that Dilip Kumar was the king of the princely estate after the locket in his body was discovered. Dilip Kumar forgave him even after knowing that his affair with Wahida Rehman never blossomed into marriage due to Pran only. Among romantic songs of Rafi and Lata like “sawan aye ya na aye”, “dilruba main ne tere”, “koi sagar dil ko behlata nahi”, Pran kept a balance with his villanish pursuits. In Ram Aur Shyam, Pran tortured one of the Dilip Kumars who played the role of his brother-in-law. When Dilip Kumar’s twin brother came to his wife he took revenge against the evil deeds of Pran. Both the sequences when Pran whipped Dilip Kumar and when Dilip Kumar whipped Pran remained sensational. The film was serio-comic in nature with Dilip Kumar playing a double role for the first time in Ram Aur Shyam. In the mid-60s, Pran changed his image by playing positive roles like the one he played in the film Upkar. In that film he played the role of a handicapped person but he was an observer who witnessed the good deeds of Manoj Kumar who was a farmer and the bad deeds of his own brother played by Prem Chopra. Pran’s lips in Manna Dey’s songs “kasme wade” is still remembered by cinematic audience today. Pran was sublime in most of the hit films of the 60s like Shammi Kapoor’s Raj Kumar, Kashmir Ki Kali, An Evening in Paris, etc., Joy Mukherjee’s Love in Tokyo, Phir Wohi Dil Laya Hoon, Biswajeet’s Mere Sanam, Rajender Kumar’s Ganwar, Raj Kumar’s Maryada, Manoj Kumar’s Gumnaam, to name a few. In the 70s he even matched himself with the action heroes of the other generation like Dharmender and Big B. His performance in Big B’s film Zanjeer in the role of a Pathan requires special mention. He gave excellent lips in Manna Dey’s song “yari hai imaan mera yaar mera zindagi” in the same film. In Amar Akbar Anthony, he was the father of Big B, Vinod Khanna and Rishi Kapoor and he faced the evil operations of Jeevan and his men all along the film. He kept his fitness to such an extent that in action sequences, he never looked out of place in a film where Big B, Vinod Khanna who were much younger than him showed their own skills. Pran continued his villainish performances in films of 80s including Dilip Kumar’s Duniya and Big B and Rajnikant’s Andha Kanoon. With notable actors coming in bollywood industry in the 80s like Amrish Puri, Danny, Paresh Rawal, Kader Khan, Anupam Kher, etc., Pran slowly faded away from the industry. By that time he had performed in more than 300 films. Viewers remember him for his unique style of dialogue delivery, unique mannerisms and fantastic body. His viewers pay respect to the old actor on his birth anniver

sary who had already received lifetime achievement award from Filmfare for his unique contribution to bollywood cinema.

Sadhnaji was a sensation in the 1960s 22 Feb 5:20 PM (last month)

Sadhna remained sizzling actress in the 60s. Renowned actress Sadhna died in end of December 2015, at the age of 84 years. It was a huge loss for the industry as she was associated with classic films. The viewers of Bollywood films wished happy birthday to Sadhna on 2nd September, 2021. Sadhna Shivdasani remained sizzling actress in the 60s. Born on 2nd September, 1941, her name was given by her father due to his fascination for the actress Sadhana Bose. She acted in a Sindhi film Abana in 1958 where she played the role of the sister of the heroine in the film. Then Subodh Mukherjee did cast her opposite Joy Mukherjee in the film Love in Simla in 1959. The music was composed by Iqbal Qureshi and the songs of the film became big hits. She acted in successful films one after the other after that including Parakh, Hum Dono, Prem Patra. In 1962, her film Ek Musafir Ek Haseena opposite Joy Mukherjee became musical blockbuster. Raj Khosla’s hit became known for the songs composed by OP Nayyar, including Rafi’s songs “aap yuhi agar”, “bahut shukhriya”, “phir tere shahar me”, etc. She also acted in Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s film Asli Nakli in 1962, opposite Dev Anand which was also another musical hit. Shankar Jaikishan’s composition became super hit including Lata’s “tera mera pyara amar”, Rafi’s song “tujhe jeevan ki dor me”, etc. Mere Mehboob was the greatest hit of Sadhna opposite Jubilee Kumar Rajender Kumar in 1963. The romantic film created the pair of Rajender Kumar Sadhna who remained sublime during the 60s. Naushad’s composition was brilliant including Rafi’s title song “mere mehboob tujhe meri muhobbat ki kasam”. The other super hit films of Sadhna opposite Rajender Kumar including Aarzoo and Aap Aye Bahar Aye. In 1965 she was married to RK Nayyar. She became famous for her spooky performance in Raj Khosla’s suspense thrillers like Wo Kaun Thi, Mera Saya and Anita. For Wo Kaun Thi she received filmfare nomination for best actress. Her other successful films including Dulha Dulhan opposite Raj Kapoor, Waqt opposite Sunil Dutt, Battamees and Raj Kumar opposite Shammi Kapoor, Ek Phool Do Mali opposite Sanjay Khan, etc. She faded away from the industry in the 70s, as her films Geeta Mera Naam, Ishq Par Zor Nahin, did not do adequate business. Her films should be preserved and restored.

Blockbuster Chaava did 165 crores business in India in 5 days and 200 crores business worldwide 18 Feb 5:18 PM (last month)

In 3 days Vicky Kaushal's Chaava did 112 crores business in India and 150 crores business worldwide. Due to brilliant acting of Vicky Kaushal and Ashay Khanna the film Chaava did 70 crores business in India in 2 days and 25 crores in other countries to do 95 crores worldwide. It is going to be a blockbuster film.Chhaava (lit. transl. Lion's Cub) is a 2025 Indian Hindi-language historical action film based on the life of Sambhaji, the second ruler of the Maratha kingdom, played by Vicky Kaushal. It is an adaptation of the Marathi novel Chhava by Shivaji Sawant. Directed by Laxman Utekar and produced by Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films, the film also stars Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna. Pre-production began in April 2023 and filming commenced in October 2023 and ended in May 2024. The film score and soundtrack album are composed by A. R. Rahman while the lyrics are written by Irshad Kamil and Kshitij Patwardhan. It was theatrically released on 14 February 2025 in standard and IMAX formats. Plot Following the death of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, news reaches Aurangzeb’s court. His advisers anticipate the collapse of Maratha resistance, while Aurangzeb, though acknowledging the loss of a formidable enemy, orders a celebration. However, leadership has already passed to Sambhaji, Shivaji’s son. Burhanpur, a key Mughal administrative and commercial center, faces a sudden Maratha attack. The defenders, unprepared, are overwhelmed by the onslaught. In the midst of battle, Sambhaji falls into a pit where he faces a lion. Overpowering the beast, he kills it with his bare hands. The Marathas seize the Mughal treasury, directly challenging imperial authority. As reports arrive in Delhi, Aurangzeb realizes that the Maratha resistance remains intact. He initiates a vast military campaign to crush them. Meanwhile, factional intrigue grows within the Maratha court, with conspirators attempting to install Rajaram, Sambhaji’s stepbrother, as ruler. Aurangzeb’s forces advance, and the atrocities committed under his command are briefly noted. Diplomatic negotiations unfold as Mughal prince Mirza Akbar seeks Sambhaji’s assistance in rebelling against Aurangzeb. While skeptical, Sambhaji uncovers covert communications between the prince and his stepmother. A conspiracy to overthrow him is revealed, and the traitors are executed beneath an elephant’s crushing weight. Recognizing the superior numbers of the Mughal army, Sambhaji employs guerrilla tactics. The Deccan’s challenging terrain proves disastrous for the Mughals, causing heavy losses. Aurangzeb, having vowed to remain uncrowned until Sambhaji is defeated, faces increasing difficulty. His daughter, Zinat-un-Nissa, attempts to capture her estranged brother Mirza Akbar, but the Marathas foil the ambush. Internal dissent weakens Sambhaji’s ranks as jagirdars defect to the Mughals. Betrayed by his brothers-in-law, his location is exposed. The Mughals launch a surprise assault, encircling the Marathas. Despite fierce resistance, Sambhaji is captured. Taken before Aurangzeb, he refuses to submit. He is brutally tortured but does not renounce his ideals. Aurangzeb, facing mounting revolts, offers him a chance to surrender. Sambhaji remains defiant, declaring that the struggle for Swaraj has spread across the empire. As he perishes, Rajaram ascends, and the resistance continues. The film ends with the Marathas’ eventual triumph, as the Mughal Empire collapses within three decades, leading to the establishment of Indian Swaraj. Cast Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Rashmika Mandanna as Yesubai Bhonsale Akshaye Khanna as Aurangzeb Ashutosh Rana as Hambirrao Mohite Diana Penty as Zinat-un-Nissa Begum Divya Dutta as Soyarabai Vineet Kumar Singh as Kavi Kalash Santosh Juvekar as Rayaji Malge Alok Nath as Somaji Kiran Karmarkar as Annaji Datto Sachiv Balaji Manohar as Mhaloji Anil George as Muqarrab Khan Neelkante Patekar as Dharau Sarang Sathaye as Ganoji Shirke Suvrat Joshi as Kanhoji Shirke Ankit Anil Sharma as Santaji Ghorpade Ashish Pathode as Antaji Mankeshwar Gandhe Shubhankar Ekbote as Dhanaji Jadhav Siraj Mustafa as Bahadur Khan Shivraj Walvekar as Bahirji Naik Manoj Kolhatkar as Balaji Avaji Chitnis Danish Pandor as Ikhlas Khan Rohit Pathak as Kakkad Khan Sanjeev Jaiswal as Jhaalad Sukwinder Singh as Khan Zamaan Lavi Pajni as Shaubuddin Firozjang Trishan Singh as Shehzaada Ajjam Ruffy Khan as Shehzaada Maujjam Rakesh Theraja as Sarja Khan Akshay Anand Kohli as Rahulla Khan Ajay Devgn as the narrator (voice)[5] Production Development and pre-production "Everyone knows about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, but no one knows about Chatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. He had such great courage and was a great warrior, but sadly no one knows about it. During the pandemic [COVID-19], when I read about Sambhaji Maharaj, I realised he is such a big character, and why are we not talking about his life? That's when I started writing and the idea of Chhaava came to me." — Laxman Utekar, during an interview with India Today[6] In 2021, Laxman Utekar told Dinesh Vijan that he wanted to make a film with Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna.[7] In December 2022, it was reported that Utekar was working on a historical biopic,[8] based on the Marathi novel Chhava by Shivaji Sawant.[1] After completing script in January 2023, pre-production for the film began in April, and principal photography starting in October.[9][10][11] Utekar and his team spent a year researching the 17th-century Maratha era, travelling to historical towns like Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Ratnagiri, Pune, Nashik, and Paithan.[12] Costume designer Sheetal Sharma sourced authentic Paithani sarees and restored 500-year-old borders for Rashmika Mandanna's character, Yesubai. The sourcing process included visits to Paithan and Narayanpeth to obtain authentic Pathani and Narayanpeth sarees. Additional accessories were gathered from Kolhapur, Sawantwadi, and Ratnagiri.[13] Subrata Chakraborty and Amit Ray recreated jewellery and the sword Bhavani, drawing references from museums in London. Vicky Kaushal's portrayal of Sambhaji was based on historical busts and statues to ensure accuracy.[14] A. R. Rahman was roped in to compose the score.[15] The film was officially announced on 3 October 2023, when Maddock Films revealed its upcoming slate of theatrical releases, including the release date for Chhaava.[16][17] Casting and filming Laxman Utekar discussed his upcoming film with Vicky Kaushal during the shoot of Zara Hatke Zara Bachke (2023).[18] In January 2023, Utekar confirmed that Kaushal would portray Sambhaji, marking their second collaboration following Zara Hatke Zara Bachke.[19] Kaushal would be reportedly receiving a ₹10 crore (US$1.2 million) remuneration.[20] Utekar mentioned that Kaushal would undergo four months of training in sword fighting, horse riding, and that shooting would begin once they were satisfied with his preparation.[19] In August 2023, it was reported that Marathi actor Santosh Juvekar would play a pivotal role in the film.[21] He was originally cast as Ganoji Shirke, but later, director Laxman Utekar met with him in his office and offered him the role of Rayaji Malge instead.[22] During the same month, Juvekar and Kaushal underwent horse riding training in the Mumbai suburbs.[21] During trailer launch, Kaushal revealed that he was trained in sword, stick, and spear fighting for 6-7 months. He also gained 25 kg weight for the role.[23] During shooting in Raigad a set was constructed for the scene depicting Chhatrapati Sambhaji's ascension to the throne, featuring an eight-sided throne.[24] By October 2023, it was reported that Kaushal had started his preparations for the film alongside co-star Rashmika Mandanna.[25] Mandanna would be reportedly receiving ₹4 crore (US$460,000) remuneration.[26] The same month, Ashutosh Rana and Divya Dutta join cast as Hambirrao Mohite and Soyarabai, respectively.[27] Rana would be reportedly receiving ₹80 lakh (US$92,000) remuneration.[20] Dutta later discussed her portrayal in an interview with Mid-Day in December 2024.[28][29] On 4 December 2023, Pradeep Rawat joined the film's cast.[30] Mandanna wrapped up her portion of filming in January 2024, while Kaushal resumed filming in Wai on 9 March 2024, continuing until 6 April 2024.[31][32] On 23 April 2024, Santosh Juvekar completed his portions.[33][34] Earlier in the production process, the team had approached Anil Kapoor for the role of Aurangzeb,[35] but in October 2023, Akshaye Khanna joined the cast in the role instead.[36] He would be reportedly receiving ₹2 crore (US$230,000) for his remuneration.[20] Diana Penty joined the film in the role of Zinat-un-Nissa Begum.[37] Principal photography for the film wrapped in May 2024.[38][39] Initially, Utekar had approached Marathi actor Ashok Shinde for a negative role, but Shinde declined the offer due to a scheduling conflict with his existing contract with Zee, as he revealed in a November 2024 interview with ItsMajja.[40] Post-production After filming concluded in May 2024, the movie entered post-production.[15] On 11 February 2025, Pinkvilla reported that Ajay Devgn was hired to provide a voiceover for the film, completing his dubbing in the final week.[41] On 1 February 2025, the film was granted a U/A 16+ certification by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), with a runtime of 161 minutes and 50 seconds. The CBFC required certain modifications, including the replacement of dialogues in the first half and the removal of a scene featuring Maratha warriors in sarees. Additionally, the CBFC requested the inclusion of an audio-text disclaimer, mentioning the book the film is adapted from and clarifying that it does not aim to defame anyone or distort historical facts.

In 3 days Vicky Kaushal's Chaava did 112 crores business in India and 150 crores business worldwide. 16 Feb 4:03 AM (last month)

In 3 days Vicky Kaushal's Chaava did 112 crores business in India and 150 crores business worldwide. Due to brilliant acting of Vicky Kaushal and Ashay Khanna the film Chaava did 70 crores business in India in 2 days and 25 crores in other countries to do 95 crores worldwide. It is going to be a blockbuster film.Chhaava (lit. transl. Lion's Cub) is a 2025 Indian Hindi-language historical action film based on the life of Sambhaji, the second ruler of the Maratha kingdom, played by Vicky Kaushal. It is an adaptation of the Marathi novel Chhava by Shivaji Sawant. Directed by Laxman Utekar and produced by Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films, the film also stars Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna. Pre-production began in April 2023 and filming commenced in October 2023 and ended in May 2024. The film score and soundtrack album are composed by A. R. Rahman while the lyrics are written by Irshad Kamil and Kshitij Patwardhan. It was theatrically released on 14 February 2025 in standard and IMAX formats. Plot Following the death of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, news reaches Aurangzeb’s court. His advisers anticipate the collapse of Maratha resistance, while Aurangzeb, though acknowledging the loss of a formidable enemy, orders a celebration. However, leadership has already passed to Sambhaji, Shivaji’s son. Burhanpur, a key Mughal administrative and commercial center, faces a sudden Maratha attack. The defenders, unprepared, are overwhelmed by the onslaught. In the midst of battle, Sambhaji falls into a pit where he faces a lion. Overpowering the beast, he kills it with his bare hands. The Marathas seize the Mughal treasury, directly challenging imperial authority. As reports arrive in Delhi, Aurangzeb realizes that the Maratha resistance remains intact. He initiates a vast military campaign to crush them. Meanwhile, factional intrigue grows within the Maratha court, with conspirators attempting to install Rajaram, Sambhaji’s stepbrother, as ruler. Aurangzeb’s forces advance, and the atrocities committed under his command are briefly noted. Diplomatic negotiations unfold as Mughal prince Mirza Akbar seeks Sambhaji’s assistance in rebelling against Aurangzeb. While skeptical, Sambhaji uncovers covert communications between the prince and his stepmother. A conspiracy to overthrow him is revealed, and the traitors are executed beneath an elephant’s crushing weight. Recognizing the superior numbers of the Mughal army, Sambhaji employs guerrilla tactics. The Deccan’s challenging terrain proves disastrous for the Mughals, causing heavy losses. Aurangzeb, having vowed to remain uncrowned until Sambhaji is defeated, faces increasing difficulty. His daughter, Zinat-un-Nissa, attempts to capture her estranged brother Mirza Akbar, but the Marathas foil the ambush. Internal dissent weakens Sambhaji’s ranks as jagirdars defect to the Mughals. Betrayed by his brothers-in-law, his location is exposed. The Mughals launch a surprise assault, encircling the Marathas. Despite fierce resistance, Sambhaji is captured. Taken before Aurangzeb, he refuses to submit. He is brutally tortured but does not renounce his ideals. Aurangzeb, facing mounting revolts, offers him a chance to surrender. Sambhaji remains defiant, declaring that the struggle for Swaraj has spread across the empire. As he perishes, Rajaram ascends, and the resistance continues. The film ends with the Marathas’ eventual triumph, as the Mughal Empire collapses within three decades, leading to the establishment of Indian Swaraj. Cast Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Rashmika Mandanna as Yesubai Bhonsale Akshaye Khanna as Aurangzeb Ashutosh Rana as Hambirrao Mohite Diana Penty as Zinat-un-Nissa Begum Divya Dutta as Soyarabai Vineet Kumar Singh as Kavi Kalash Santosh Juvekar as Rayaji Malge Alok Nath as Somaji Kiran Karmarkar as Annaji Datto Sachiv Balaji Manohar as Mhaloji Anil George as Muqarrab Khan Neelkante Patekar as Dharau Sarang Sathaye as Ganoji Shirke Suvrat Joshi as Kanhoji Shirke Ankit Anil Sharma as Santaji Ghorpade Ashish Pathode as Antaji Mankeshwar Gandhe Shubhankar Ekbote as Dhanaji Jadhav Siraj Mustafa as Bahadur Khan Shivraj Walvekar as Bahirji Naik Manoj Kolhatkar as Balaji Avaji Chitnis Danish Pandor as Ikhlas Khan Rohit Pathak as Kakkad Khan Sanjeev Jaiswal as Jhaalad Sukwinder Singh as Khan Zamaan Lavi Pajni as Shaubuddin Firozjang Trishan Singh as Shehzaada Ajjam Ruffy Khan as Shehzaada Maujjam Rakesh Theraja as Sarja Khan Akshay Anand Kohli as Rahulla Khan Ajay Devgn as the narrator (voice)[5] Production Development and pre-production "Everyone knows about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, but no one knows about Chatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. He had such great courage and was a great warrior, but sadly no one knows about it. During the pandemic [COVID-19], when I read about Sambhaji Maharaj, I realised he is such a big character, and why are we not talking about his life? That's when I started writing and the idea of Chhaava came to me." — Laxman Utekar, during an interview with India Today[6] In 2021, Laxman Utekar told Dinesh Vijan that he wanted to make a film with Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna.[7] In December 2022, it was reported that Utekar was working on a historical biopic,[8] based on the Marathi novel Chhava by Shivaji Sawant.[1] After completing script in January 2023, pre-production for the film began in April, and principal photography starting in October.[9][10][11] Utekar and his team spent a year researching the 17th-century Maratha era, travelling to historical towns like Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Ratnagiri, Pune, Nashik, and Paithan.[12] Costume designer Sheetal Sharma sourced authentic Paithani sarees and restored 500-year-old borders for Rashmika Mandanna's character, Yesubai. The sourcing process included visits to Paithan and Narayanpeth to obtain authentic Pathani and Narayanpeth sarees. Additional accessories were gathered from Kolhapur, Sawantwadi, and Ratnagiri.[13] Subrata Chakraborty and Amit Ray recreated jewellery and the sword Bhavani, drawing references from museums in London. Vicky Kaushal's portrayal of Sambhaji was based on historical busts and statues to ensure accuracy.[14] A. R. Rahman was roped in to compose the score.[15] The film was officially announced on 3 October 2023, when Maddock Films revealed its upcoming slate of theatrical releases, including the release date for Chhaava.[16][17] Casting and filming Laxman Utekar discussed his upcoming film with Vicky Kaushal during the shoot of Zara Hatke Zara Bachke (2023).[18] In January 2023, Utekar confirmed that Kaushal would portray Sambhaji, marking their second collaboration following Zara Hatke Zara Bachke.[19] Kaushal would be reportedly receiving a ₹10 crore (US$1.2 million) remuneration.[20] Utekar mentioned that Kaushal would undergo four months of training in sword fighting, horse riding, and that shooting would begin once they were satisfied with his preparation.[19] In August 2023, it was reported that Marathi actor Santosh Juvekar would play a pivotal role in the film.[21] He was originally cast as Ganoji Shirke, but later, director Laxman Utekar met with him in his office and offered him the role of Rayaji Malge instead.[22] During the same month, Juvekar and Kaushal underwent horse riding training in the Mumbai suburbs.[21] During trailer launch, Kaushal revealed that he was trained in sword, stick, and spear fighting for 6-7 months. He also gained 25 kg weight for the role.[23] During shooting in Raigad a set was constructed for the scene depicting Chhatrapati Sambhaji's ascension to the throne, featuring an eight-sided throne.[24] By October 2023, it was reported that Kaushal had started his preparations for the film alongside co-star Rashmika Mandanna.[25] Mandanna would be reportedly receiving ₹4 crore (US$460,000) remuneration.[26] The same month, Ashutosh Rana and Divya Dutta join cast as Hambirrao Mohite and Soyarabai, respectively.[27] Rana would be reportedly receiving ₹80 lakh (US$92,000) remuneration.[20] Dutta later discussed her portrayal in an interview with Mid-Day in December 2024.[28][29] On 4 December 2023, Pradeep Rawat joined the film's cast.[30] Mandanna wrapped up her portion of filming in January 2024, while Kaushal resumed filming in Wai on 9 March 2024, continuing until 6 April 2024.[31][32] On 23 April 2024, Santosh Juvekar completed his portions.[33][34] Earlier in the production process, the team had approached Anil Kapoor for the role of Aurangzeb,[35] but in October 2023, Akshaye Khanna joined the cast in the role instead.[36] He would be reportedly receiving ₹2 crore (US$230,000) for his remuneration.[20] Diana Penty joined the film in the role of Zinat-un-Nissa Begum.[37] Principal photography for the film wrapped in May 2024.[38][39] Initially, Utekar had approached Marathi actor Ashok Shinde for a negative role, but Shinde declined the offer due to a scheduling conflict with his existing contract with Zee, as he revealed in a November 2024 interview with ItsMajja.[40] Post-production After filming concluded in May 2024, the movie entered post-production.[15] On 11 February 2025, Pinkvilla reported that Ajay Devgn was hired to provide a voiceover for the film, completing his dubbing in the final week.[41] On 1 February 2025, the film was granted a U/A 16+ certification by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), with a runtime of 161 minutes and 50 seconds. The CBFC required certain modifications, including the replacement of dialogues in the first half and the removal of a scene featuring Maratha warriors in sarees. Additionally, the CBFC requested the inclusion of an audio-text disclaimer, mentioning the book the film is adapted from and clarifying that it does not aim to defame anyone or distort historical facts.

Manobendra Mukherjee remained the monarch of romantic classical songs 15 Feb 5:38 PM (last month)

Manobendra Mukherjee and stylish classical Bengali songs. Manobendra Mukherjee was one of the legendary classical singer of Bengal who had simplified classical ragas and used them in Bengali modern songs. His romantic song “ami eto je tomay bhalobesechi” written by Shyamal Gupta and composed by himself had classical touch embedded in it. His other own composed song “emni kore porbe mone baki jibon dhore” was also a masterpiece related to classical andaz. Manobendra Mukherjee’s pure classical numbers were even more melodious. One example is “ei moushumi mon shudhu rong bodlay”. In this song there was a small alaap or khanak taken at the place “mori je hay” where Manobendra had used the sargam by uttering in “aa aa” form. It was brilliant. There were other romantic songs like “boroshaklanto o duti nayan mele”. The song had been composed by Anal Chatterji. Manobendra Mukherjee had another master piece “bolo raat bolo se kothay”. The song was totally raga oriented. Manobendra Mukherjee was sublime in the song “ei nil nil jal sagore” composed by Probir Mojumdar and “tomar pather prante moner monidip jele rekhechi” composed by Satinath Mukherjee. Some of his own compositions like “ei ganga sei padda” and “sei bhalo ei bosonto noi” had absolute romantic andaz. Manobendra Mukherjee had given adequate expression to songs composed by Himangshu Dutta including “birohini chiro birohini”, “tumi je andhar”, “biroho barisha”, etc. The songs were difficult in nature and Manobendra was probably the most classically trained singer to do justice to them. Manobendra had also sung some of the songs created in thumri style. One example was “koto je soyechi betha” composed by Chinmoy Lahiri. One more classical number included “tumi to dariye acho”. Articles after articles can be devoted to Manobendra Mukherjee whose classical touch was as elegant and stylish as Neil Harvey’s wristy strokes.

Ayesha Takiaji was a good contributor in bollywood films 15 Feb 5:36 PM (last month)

Actress Ayesha Takia left films after few successful ones otherwise she had a very bright future in bollywood films. There are two categories of actresses who perform in bollywood films. The first category includes the daughters of celebrities who make their debut in films made by their parents. Examples include Sonam Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor, Deepika Padukone, whose first films had lot of curiousness created in respect of the performance. The second category includes the other actresses who prove their capability by performing in films over a period of time. Ayesha Takia fall in that category. She was born on 10th April, 1986. Her father Nisith or mother Faridah were not celebrities to the stature of Jeetender, or Feroz Khan or Hema Malini whose children joined bollywood films. Ayesha did advertisement relating to complain girl and acted in music video of Falguni Pathak titled “meri chunari ur ur jaye”. She received the filmfare award for best debutant for the performance in the film Tarzan, The Wonder Car. After that few average films like Socha Na Tha, Dil Mange Mor followed. She created attention in the film Shaadi No. 1, where Esha Deol and Soha Ali Khan acted with her. All three of them had husbands like Fardeen Khan, Sharman Joshi, etc., who were addicted towards other ladies. Sanjay Dutt came over there and disclosed the truth relating to the affairs of their husbands with other girls like Riya Sen. At the end of the film Ayesha’s husband and the husbands of Esha Deol and Soha Ali Khan understood their mistake and followed the right path. Ayesha Takia was sublime in the film Salaam-e-Ishq opposite Akshay Khanna. Initially Akshay Khanna did not wanted to marry her for not taking up responsibilities of husband. But later he got convinced and married her. Ayesha gave able lips in the songs “salaam –e-ishq”, “dekho to dekho aisa hota to”, etc. Although the film did mediocre business the songs of the film became super hit. In 2008 and early part of 2009 her films De Taali, Sunday and 8*10 Tasveer did mediocre business. In 2009, Ayesha Takia acted in super hit film Wanted opposite Salman Khan. Her romantic performance opposite Salman Khan was appreciated by all sections of the crowd. Her softness and submissiveness is liked by different sections of audience. The song “love me love me” became hit in the film. The film did business of more than 75 crore and established Ayesha Takia as a leading actress along with Priyanka Chopra, Kareena Kapoor and Katrina Kaif. The viewers expect her to make a comeback.

Uttam Kumar and Arundhuti Debi films showed majestic royal aristocracy 15 Feb 5:34 PM (last month)

Uttam Kumar in the 50s and 60s acted opposite different actresses, some who were beautiful, like Sumitra Debi, Suchitra Sen, Sharmila Tagore, etc., while others who had wide ranging acting conceptions like Manju Dey, Sabitri Chatterji and others. Arundhuti Debi was one of the highly educated characters whose qualifications were expressed in the characters she had played in a long career spanning over 25 years. With Uttam Kumar Arundhuti Debi acted in approximately 8 films including Bokul, Shiulibari, Jhinder Bandi, Jotugriha, Nabajanma, Manmayi Girls School, Pushpodhonu and Bicharak. While in Bicharak, she expressed the feelings of a confused sister whose elder sister was married to Uttam Kumar. Uttam Kumar was attracted to Arundhuti Debi and when fire broke out in the house and his first wife Deepti Ray required his help, he declined to help her and allowed her to die. A similar type of case was adjudicated by Uttam Kumar when he was a judge, when Chabi Biswas, the Public Prosecutor talked about the liability of the accused who could have saved the life of his brother, but he did not do so. Uttam Kumar was asked by Arundhuti Debi to examine his own conscience about his liability towards Deepti Roy in Prabhat Mukherjee’s classic film. Arundhuti Debi and Uttam Kumar showed their comedy conception in the film Manmayi Girl’s School, where they had to pretend to be spouses, because their landlord rented his house to them only on the condition of marriage. But their playacting resulted in an affair with one another. In Pushpadhanu, Arundhuti Debi brought up her husband’s child after he deserted her and got attached with Uttam Kumar who understood the feelings of an established dancer who got recognition but was a loner. Jhinder Bandi was made with the historical touch of Prisoner of Zenda and Tapan Sinha astonished the viewers with his treatment in the Indian context. The royal style of living of Rajputs was well demonstrated by both Uttam Kumar and Arundhuti Debi. Shiulibari was directed by Pijus Bose, who utilized the talent of Uttam Kumar and Arundhuti in a story based on the life of villagers of West Bengal. Jotugriha, directed by Tapan Sinha, was probably the most successful film of Uttam Kumar and Arundhuti Debi. In that film lack of begetting a child led to disharmony of the married couple. Both Uttam Kumar and Arundhuti Debi got separated and even after separation never lost the respect of each other. The story ends with both the spouses travelling in to trains which crossed each other. The level of performance of both Uttam Kumar and Arundhuti Debi, was such that there were no Indian actor or actress who could match the standard of performance. Uttam Kumar was the greatest superstar of Bengali cinema and became one-man industry in the 70s. Critics argue that no Indian star other than Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor had the individual charishma which Uttam Kumar had and if his Hindi films clicked he could have created serious competition for the stars of 60s. But Arundhuti Debi’s films with Uttam Kumar were so rich in literature, script and performance that critics argue that the combination addressed the concerns of intellectual audience of the country more than any other combination. The films should be restored for their aesthetic value.

Vicky Kaushal's Chaava in 2 days crossed 70 crores business in India and 95 crores worldwide 15 Feb 5:22 PM (last month)

Due to brilliant acting of Vicky Kaushal and Ashay Khanna the film Chaava did 70 crores business in India in 2 days and 25 crores in other countries to do 95 crores worldwide. It is going to be a blockbuster film.Chhaava (lit. transl. Lion's Cub) is a 2025 Indian Hindi-language historical action film based on the life of Sambhaji, the second ruler of the Maratha kingdom, played by Vicky Kaushal. It is an adaptation of the Marathi novel Chhava by Shivaji Sawant. Directed by Laxman Utekar and produced by Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films, the film also stars Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna. Pre-production began in April 2023 and filming commenced in October 2023 and ended in May 2024. The film score and soundtrack album are composed by A. R. Rahman while the lyrics are written by Irshad Kamil and Kshitij Patwardhan. It was theatrically released on 14 February 2025 in standard and IMAX formats. Plot Following the death of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, news reaches Aurangzeb’s court. His advisers anticipate the collapse of Maratha resistance, while Aurangzeb, though acknowledging the loss of a formidable enemy, orders a celebration. However, leadership has already passed to Sambhaji, Shivaji’s son. Burhanpur, a key Mughal administrative and commercial center, faces a sudden Maratha attack. The defenders, unprepared, are overwhelmed by the onslaught. In the midst of battle, Sambhaji falls into a pit where he faces a lion. Overpowering the beast, he kills it with his bare hands. The Marathas seize the Mughal treasury, directly challenging imperial authority. As reports arrive in Delhi, Aurangzeb realizes that the Maratha resistance remains intact. He initiates a vast military campaign to crush them. Meanwhile, factional intrigue grows within the Maratha court, with conspirators attempting to install Rajaram, Sambhaji’s stepbrother, as ruler. Aurangzeb’s forces advance, and the atrocities committed under his command are briefly noted. Diplomatic negotiations unfold as Mughal prince Mirza Akbar seeks Sambhaji’s assistance in rebelling against Aurangzeb. While skeptical, Sambhaji uncovers covert communications between the prince and his stepmother. A conspiracy to overthrow him is revealed, and the traitors are executed beneath an elephant’s crushing weight. Recognizing the superior numbers of the Mughal army, Sambhaji employs guerrilla tactics. The Deccan’s challenging terrain proves disastrous for the Mughals, causing heavy losses. Aurangzeb, having vowed to remain uncrowned until Sambhaji is defeated, faces increasing difficulty. His daughter, Zinat-un-Nissa, attempts to capture her estranged brother Mirza Akbar, but the Marathas foil the ambush. Internal dissent weakens Sambhaji’s ranks as jagirdars defect to the Mughals. Betrayed by his brothers-in-law, his location is exposed. The Mughals launch a surprise assault, encircling the Marathas. Despite fierce resistance, Sambhaji is captured. Taken before Aurangzeb, he refuses to submit. He is brutally tortured but does not renounce his ideals. Aurangzeb, facing mounting revolts, offers him a chance to surrender. Sambhaji remains defiant, declaring that the struggle for Swaraj has spread across the empire. As he perishes, Rajaram ascends, and the resistance continues. The film ends with the Marathas’ eventual triumph, as the Mughal Empire collapses within three decades, leading to the establishment of Indian Swaraj. Cast Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Rashmika Mandanna as Yesubai Bhonsale Akshaye Khanna as Aurangzeb Ashutosh Rana as Hambirrao Mohite Diana Penty as Zinat-un-Nissa Begum Divya Dutta as Soyarabai Vineet Kumar Singh as Kavi Kalash Santosh Juvekar as Rayaji Malge Alok Nath as Somaji Kiran Karmarkar as Annaji Datto Sachiv Balaji Manohar as Mhaloji Anil George as Muqarrab Khan Neelkante Patekar as Dharau Sarang Sathaye as Ganoji Shirke Suvrat Joshi as Kanhoji Shirke Ankit Anil Sharma as Santaji Ghorpade Ashish Pathode as Antaji Mankeshwar Gandhe Shubhankar Ekbote as Dhanaji Jadhav Siraj Mustafa as Bahadur Khan Shivraj Walvekar as Bahirji Naik Manoj Kolhatkar as Balaji Avaji Chitnis Danish Pandor as Ikhlas Khan Rohit Pathak as Kakkad Khan Sanjeev Jaiswal as Jhaalad Sukwinder Singh as Khan Zamaan Lavi Pajni as Shaubuddin Firozjang Trishan Singh as Shehzaada Ajjam Ruffy Khan as Shehzaada Maujjam Rakesh Theraja as Sarja Khan Akshay Anand Kohli as Rahulla Khan Ajay Devgn as the narrator (voice)[5] Production Development and pre-production "Everyone knows about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, but no one knows about Chatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. He had such great courage and was a great warrior, but sadly no one knows about it. During the pandemic [COVID-19], when I read about Sambhaji Maharaj, I realised he is such a big character, and why are we not talking about his life? That's when I started writing and the idea of Chhaava came to me." — Laxman Utekar, during an interview with India Today[6] In 2021, Laxman Utekar told Dinesh Vijan that he wanted to make a film with Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna.[7] In December 2022, it was reported that Utekar was working on a historical biopic,[8] based on the Marathi novel Chhava by Shivaji Sawant.[1] After completing script in January 2023, pre-production for the film began in April, and principal photography starting in October.[9][10][11] Utekar and his team spent a year researching the 17th-century Maratha era, travelling to historical towns like Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Ratnagiri, Pune, Nashik, and Paithan.[12] Costume designer Sheetal Sharma sourced authentic Paithani sarees and restored 500-year-old borders for Rashmika Mandanna's character, Yesubai. The sourcing process included visits to Paithan and Narayanpeth to obtain authentic Pathani and Narayanpeth sarees. Additional accessories were gathered from Kolhapur, Sawantwadi, and Ratnagiri.[13] Subrata Chakraborty and Amit Ray recreated jewellery and the sword Bhavani, drawing references from museums in London. Vicky Kaushal's portrayal of Sambhaji was based on historical busts and statues to ensure accuracy.[14] A. R. Rahman was roped in to compose the score.[15] The film was officially announced on 3 October 2023, when Maddock Films revealed its upcoming slate of theatrical releases, including the release date for Chhaava.[16][17] Casting and filming Laxman Utekar discussed his upcoming film with Vicky Kaushal during the shoot of Zara Hatke Zara Bachke (2023).[18] In January 2023, Utekar confirmed that Kaushal would portray Sambhaji, marking their second collaboration following Zara Hatke Zara Bachke.[19] Kaushal would be reportedly receiving a ₹10 crore (US$1.2 million) remuneration.[20] Utekar mentioned that Kaushal would undergo four months of training in sword fighting, horse riding, and that shooting would begin once they were satisfied with his preparation.[19] In August 2023, it was reported that Marathi actor Santosh Juvekar would play a pivotal role in the film.[21] He was originally cast as Ganoji Shirke, but later, director Laxman Utekar met with him in his office and offered him the role of Rayaji Malge instead.[22] During the same month, Juvekar and Kaushal underwent horse riding training in the Mumbai suburbs.[21] During trailer launch, Kaushal revealed that he was trained in sword, stick, and spear fighting for 6-7 months. He also gained 25 kg weight for the role.[23] During shooting in Raigad a set was constructed for the scene depicting Chhatrapati Sambhaji's ascension to the throne, featuring an eight-sided throne.[24] By October 2023, it was reported that Kaushal had started his preparations for the film alongside co-star Rashmika Mandanna.[25] Mandanna would be reportedly receiving ₹4 crore (US$460,000) remuneration.[26] The same month, Ashutosh Rana and Divya Dutta join cast as Hambirrao Mohite and Soyarabai, respectively.[27] Rana would be reportedly receiving ₹80 lakh (US$92,000) remuneration.[20] Dutta later discussed her portrayal in an interview with Mid-Day in December 2024.[28][29] On 4 December 2023, Pradeep Rawat joined the film's cast.[30] Mandanna wrapped up her portion of filming in January 2024, while Kaushal resumed filming in Wai on 9 March 2024, continuing until 6 April 2024.[31][32] On 23 April 2024, Santosh Juvekar completed his portions.[33][34] Earlier in the production process, the team had approached Anil Kapoor for the role of Aurangzeb,[35] but in October 2023, Akshaye Khanna joined the cast in the role instead.[36] He would be reportedly receiving ₹2 crore (US$230,000) for his remuneration.[20] Diana Penty joined the film in the role of Zinat-un-Nissa Begum.[37] Principal photography for the film wrapped in May 2024.[38][39] Initially, Utekar had approached Marathi actor Ashok Shinde for a negative role, but Shinde declined the offer due to a scheduling conflict with his existing contract with Zee, as he revealed in a November 2024 interview with ItsMajja.[40] Post-production After filming concluded in May 2024, the movie entered post-production.[15] On 11 February 2025, Pinkvilla reported that Ajay Devgn was hired to provide a voiceover for the film, completing his dubbing in the final week.[41] On 1 February 2025, the film was granted a U/A 16+ certification by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), with a runtime of 161 minutes and 50 seconds. The CBFC required certain modifications, including the replacement of dialogues in the first half and the removal of a scene featuring Maratha warriors in sarees. Additionally, the CBFC requested the inclusion of an audio-text disclaimer, mentioning the book the film is adapted from and clarifying that it does not aim to defame anyone or distort historical facts.

Ghazal king Jagjit Singhji's great works are revisited on birth anniversary 14 Feb 5:47 PM (last month)

Jagjit Singh’s excellent compositions will remain immortal forever. The listeners of music all over the world wish happy birth anniversary to Ghazal Maestro Jagjit Singh on 8th February, 2025. Listeners of ghazals remember the king of ghazals Jagjit Singh on 10th October every year. Ghazal King Jagjit Singh passed away on 10th October, 2011. In respect of his excellent ghazals his listeners have remained speechless. His voice had been used to heal sadness and sickness. He had been the only singer who had composed and sung songs on the poetry of legendary Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee titled “Nayidisha” in 1999 and “Samvedna” in 2002. Along with his wife Chitra Singh, he was the first Indian composer to have used digital multi-track recording for the album “Beyond Time” in 1987. His original name was Jagpreet Singh. He learned khayal, dhrupad, thumri from Ustaad Jamaal Khan. His album “The unforgetables” in 1976, mesmerized the audience. His baritone voice made everyone enchanted. He departed from classical ghazals to a more refined romantic rendition, by keeping the soul of the lyrics intact. He created a different gharana, a bit different from the other legends of ghazals like Mehedi Hassan, Talat Mehmood, Mohammad Rafi, Noor Jahan, Begum Akhtar, etc. His compositions in the duet albums “Ecstasies”, “A Sound Affair”, “Passions”, with Chitra Singh were unparallel. Jagjit Singh’s excellent bass was balanced by Chitra Singh’s high notes in most of the ghazals. Duet ghazals like”duniya jise kehte hai jadoo ka khilouna hai”, “kaun keheta hai muhobbat ka zuban hoti hai”, etc., will remain immortal for ever. After the death of his son Vivek at the age of 21 years, Chitra Singh left singing. But Jagjit Singh’s later albums were full of pathos, but the excellent lyrics of the shayar’s or poets or given adequate expression by the legendary Ghazal King. The titles of his music albums were also thoughtful including Hope, Insight, Mirage, Kahkashan (Galaxy), etc., to name a few. Jagjit Singh probably had sung with the best poets of the country in the 80s and 90s including Nida Fazli, Qateel Shifai, Firaq Gorakhpuri, Sudarshaan Fakir, Zaka Siddiqi, Nazir Bakri, Faiz Ratlami and others. It required huge talent and innovation to do justice to the thoughtful words shown in the poem. In whichever field of music Jagjit Singh had ventured he had struck gold, whether his albums in bhajans or gurbani. Jagjit Singh enriched hindi film music with his excellent compositions in the film Saath Saath and others. His film songs like “tumko dekha to ye khayal aya”, “tum itna jo muskura rahi ho”, “hoton se chulo tum” had remained historical masterpieces. His songs in TV Serial Mirza Ghalib had enchanted numerous listeners. A Padmabhushan being awarded to the musical maestro was not enough to reward his brilliance. One article is too small to highlight his achievements. His immortal works should be preserved and restored.

Happy birthday to Tina Munimji 14 Feb 5:44 PM (last month)

Happy birthday to Tina Munim. The viewers of bollywood films wish happy birthday to Tina Munim on 11th February, 2025

. She is better known as Tina Ambani after marrying Anil Ambani who is one of Indian’s leading business magnets. She was discovered by Dev Anand and cast in the film Desh Pardesh in 1978. She also acted in the films Lootmaar and Manpasand. She was most successful opposite Rishi Kapoor, who was the greatest romantic actor in the late 70s and early 80s. Subhash Ghai’s Karz stormed bollywood in the late 70s, where Rishi Kapoor and Tina Munim combination was well accepted by the audience. All the songs composed by LP and picturised on Rishi Kapoor and Tina Munim became super hit including “mai sola baraski”, “ek haseena thi”, “darde dil”, “om shanty om”, etc. Karz was remade few years back with Himesh Reshammiya playing the role of Rishi Kapoor in the new version. She also acted in the super hit film Aap Ke Diwane opposite Rishi Kapoor. Rakesh Roshan did cast her in the film Akhir Kyon opposite Rishi Kapoor. She was sublime in Basu Chatterjee’s film Baaton Baaton Me opposite Amol Palekar, and Man Pasand. She acted in a number of films opposite Rajesh Khanna including Souten, Bewafai, Insaaf Mai Karunga, most of which did excellent business. Souten did good business in the early 1980s. Padmini Kolhapuri played an important role in that film. She had acted opposite other actors also but viewers remember her combination the most with Rishi Kapoor. Her performances opposite Rishi Kapoor in the films Bade Dilwale, Deedar-E-Yaar and Aap Ke Deewane are remembered by the viewers. Aap Ke Deewane did great business in 1980. Rakesh Roshan also acted opposite Tina Munim where Rishi Kapoor played the main role. The music of Rajesh Roshan became super hit including Rafi’s songs “aap ke dewaane hai”, “tum ko khush dekhkar mai bahut khush hua”, etc. Sunil Dutt launched his son Sanjay Dutt in the film Rocky opposite Tina Munim. The film did good business in the early 80s. In 1987 she left bollywood films. Later she settled down after marrying Anil Ambani. She had been involve

On death anniversary Geetasri Sandhya Mukherjee and her combination with Mahanayika Suchitra Sen is remembered 7 Feb 5:36 PM (2 months ago)

Geetashree Sandhya Mukherjeeji

the legendary bengali singer died on 15th February 2022. Her demise ended the golden era of bengali music. Her brilliant combination with greatest bengali actress Suchitra Sen has remained immortal. From prime minister of India and chief minister of West Bengal all the dignitories mourned the death of the legendary singer. She has sung more than 100 songs in the films of Suchitra Sen and Uttam Kumar. Her landmark songs for Suchitra Sen included "ke tumi amare dako" in Agniparikka "gane more indradhanu" in film Agniparikkha, "ghum ghum chand" in film Sabar Opore, "e sudhu ganer din" in film Pathe Holo Deri, "ei to amar pratham phaguna bela" in film Sagarika, "klantir poth buhiba phurale mor" in film Bipasha, "moner madhuri mishaye" in film Sriti Tuku Thak, to mention a few. The list just goes on and on. Uttam Kumar and Suchitra Sen acted in 30 films and are considered the biggest romantic pair of stars in entire Asia. Sandhya Mukherjee contributed the most in the super hit films and blockbusters of Suchitra Sen and Uttam Kumar which includes Agni Parikkha, Sagarika, Pathe Holo Deri, Bipasha, Saptapadi, Kamallata, Shap Mochon, Surjo Toron, to mention a few. Articles after articles can be devoted to the greatest female singer of Bengali Sandhyaji who will remain immortal in her songs. She also sang duet song with Lataji in film Tarana, where Anil Biswas composed her song for Shyamaji and Lataji sang for Madhubalaji. She sang around 17 songs in bollywood films. Suchitra Sen was remembered on her death anniversary. Bengal’s Mahanayika Suchitra Sen had become immortal in her works. She had been remembered on 6th April, 2019. Suchitra Sen died on 17th January, 2014, at an age of 83 years. The entire film fraternity and her numerous lovers had become speechless to hear her death news. She was admitted in Belview Nursing Home more than 2 weeks. Chief Minister Mamta Banerjee mourned her death. Legendary actress Suchitra Sen had been remembered on her 84th birth anniversary on 6th April, 2014. In Star Ananda Channel veteran actress Sabitri Chatterjee had been invited to speak about Suchitra Sen. She acted with the legend in many films like Annapurnar Mondir, Grihadaha, etc. Suchitra Sen started her career with the film Saat Number Qaidi in 1953 and ended up with the film Pranay Pasha in 1978. After that she retired from film acting. Within the span of 25 years she acted in 3 films opposite Uttam Kumar making the romantic pair immortal over the last 60 years. She also acted in bollywood films including Devdas opposite Dilip Kumar, Bombai Ka Babu opposite Dev Anand, Mamta opposite Dharmender and Ashok Kumar, Aandhi opposite Sanjeev Kumar, to name a few. Suchitra Sen had a tremendous combination with singer Geeta Dutt and their understanding both in Bengali films and bollywood films had created history during the golden age, that is the 50s and 60s. In the film Indrani, all the songs sung by Geeta Dutt for Suchitra Sen including “jhanak jhanak madhur badan”, “nir choto khoti nei”, “ogo sundoro”, etc., all became super hit. Suchitra Sen provided hit films one after the other with Uttam Kumar, during that age and Indrani also falls in that category. Even in films where Geeta Dutt had sung only one song for Suchitra Sen, even in those films, the songs had a great impact in the success of the films. The song in the Ajoy Kar’s epic film Harano Sur, in 1957, titled “tumi je amar” had a unique appeal for the audience. Uttam Kumar lost his memory due to meeting with an accident and Suchitra Sen sang the song a number of times in the film. It haunted the viewers and touched the souls of numerous admirers of Bengali films. Geeta Dutt’s song for Suchitra Sen also in the film Hospital also became extremely successful. Ashok Kumar acted opposite Suchitra Sen in the film and the song was “ei shundar sharnali sondhae”. In bollywood films, SD Burman used Geeta Dutt for Suchitra Sen in the film Bombai Ka Babu. Dev Anand acted opposite Suchitra Sen in the film and all the songs were super hits. The main songs included “dekhne me bhola hai”, “pa ma ga”, etc., out of which some of them were duet songs with Mohammad Rafi and their romantic by every musical standard. As Suchitra Sen made memorable contribution in bollywood films for more than 30 years, a lot of legendary singers contributed for her during that period. There were hit songs sung by Sandhya Mukherjee in landmark films like Sagarika, Pathe Holo Deri, Sriti Tuku Thak, Uttar Falguni, Bipasha, etc. At the same time in bollywood films Lata had sung landmark songs for Suchitra Sen including “rahe na rahe hum” composed by Roshan in the film Mamta, “is mor se jate hai”, “tere bina zindagi me shikwa” composed by RD Burman in the film Aandhi. Even then Geeta Dutt was probably the only singer who sang songs for Suchitra Sen both in the Bengali films as well as the bollywood films. As Suchitra Sen’s hindi films were restricted to only Devdas, Champakali, Musafir, Bombai Ka Babu, Mamta, Aandhi, etc, Geeta Dutt got a limited scope of contributing in Suchitra Sen’s hindi films. Even then, the songs are still remembered by many generations and for those reasons the films should also be preserved.