Bollywood actor Abhishek Bachchan has expressed profound grief over the passing of his long-time makeup artist, Ashok Sawant, who had been an integral part of his professional and personal life for over 27 years. In a deeply emotional Instagram post, Bachchan remembered Sawant not merely as a colleague but as a cherished member of his family. The actor fondly referred to him as ‘Ashok dada,’ highlighting their bond that transcended the professional realm. Sawant, who had been Bachchan’s makeup artist since his debut film, was described as a loving, gentle, and affable individual who always carried a smile and warm embrace. Despite his health struggles in recent years, Sawant remained deeply involved in Bachchan’s work, ensuring his assistant took meticulous care of the actor’s makeup. Bachchan also recalled Sawant’s thoughtful gestures, such as bringing homemade snacks like ‘namkeen chivda’ and ‘bhakar wadi’ to the sets. The actor expressed his gratitude for Sawant’s unwavering love, care, dignity, and talent, concluding his tribute with heartfelt thanks for the memories they shared. The news of Sawant’s demise has left the Bollywood fraternity and fans mourning the loss of a dedicated and beloved professional.
分类： entertainment
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Cyndi Lauper, Outkast, White Stripes among Rock Hall of Fame inductees
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame welcomed a stellar lineup of inductees this year, celebrating the enduring legacy of music icons such as Cyndi Lauper, Outkast, The White Stripes, and Soundgarden. These artists joined the pantheon of legendary acts, cementing their place in music history. Cyndi Lauper, known for her vibrant punk aesthetic and timeless hits like ‘Girls Just Wanna Have Fun’ and ‘Time After Time,’ was introduced by Chappell Roan, who praised her four-octave range and fearless individuality. The White Stripes, celebrated for their anthems ‘Seven Nation Army’ and ‘Fell in Love with a Girl,’ were honored with a heartfelt tribute by Iggy Pop, who highlighted the band’s foundation of love in their music. Jack White accepted the award on behalf of the duo, dedicating it to the marginalized and forgotten. Outkast, the Atlanta hip-hop duo behind chart-toppers like ‘Hey Ya’ and ‘Ms. Jackson,’ and Soundgarden, the Seattle grunge pioneers of ‘Black Hole Sun,’ were also inducted, showcasing the diversity of musical genres represented. Posthumous honors were bestowed upon Joe Cocker, whose soulful renditions of ‘You Are So Beautiful’ and ‘With a Little Help from My Friends’ left an indelible mark on music history. Other inductees included arena rockers Bad Company and ‘The Twist’ singer Chubby Checker. Salt-N-Pepa, the groundbreaking hip-hop trio, received the Musical Influence Award for their empowering hits ‘Push It’ and ‘Shoop,’ with Missy Elliott lauding their foundational role in hip-hop. The event also recognized Nicky Hopkins, the English session pianist whose work with The Rolling Stones and The Beatles shaped iconic tracks like ‘Sympathy for the Devil.’ The ceremony featured electrifying performances by Elton John, Bryan Adams, Olivia Rodrigo, and more, while the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum in Cleveland unveiled an exhibit showcasing memorabilia from this year’s inductees.
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Britney Spears is back on Instagram with a cryptic post
Pop icon Britney Spears has made a comeback on Instagram, sharing a cryptic post about self-preservation and personal boundaries. This follows her recent decision to deactivate her account, during which she reflected on a tumultuous chapter in her life. Spears described a particularly harrowing experience in rehab towards the end of her 13-year conservatorship, a period she also detailed in her 2023 memoir, *The Woman in Me*.
In her Instagram post, Spears wrote, ‘So much has happened this year, it’s crazy… Get your ballerina slippers, circle, and own your boundaries. It’s incredibly strict and somewhat of a form of prayer, but with so many endless possibilities in life, it’s important to do you and keep it simple.’
Earlier, in a now-deleted post from October 19, Spears revealed the emotional and physical toll of her conservatorship, stating, ‘For 4 months I no longer had my private door and was illegally forced not to use my feet or body to go anywhere.’ She added, ‘I do feel like my wings were taken away and brain damage happened to me a long time ago, 100 per cent.’
The singer’s personal life has also been under scrutiny, particularly her relationship with her two sons, Sean Preston, 20, and Jayden James, 19, whom she shares with ex-husband Kevin Federline. Federline recently expressed concerns about Spears’ well-being while promoting his memoir, *You Thought You Knew*, which also touches on the boys’ strained relationship with their mother.
In response, Spears took to X (formerly Twitter) on October 15, accusing Federline of ‘constant gaslighting’ and describing his actions as ‘extremely hurtful and exhausting.’ She wrote, ‘I have always pleaded and screamed to have a life with my boys. Relationships with teenage boys are complex. I have felt demoralised by this situation and have always asked and almost begged for them to be a part of my life.’
Spears dismissed Federline’s memoir as ‘white lies,’ emphasizing, ‘I am the only one who genuinely gets hurt here.’ She concluded, ‘I speak on this because I have had enough, and any real woman would do the same.’
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Mahira and Fawad Khan talk about bringing Neelofar to life
In their latest cinematic venture, ‘Neelofar’, Mahira Khan and Fawad Khan explore the intricate nuances of portraying complex characters, particularly the challenge of embodying a blind woman. The film, set to release on November 28, 2025, in UAE cinemas, delves into themes of love, resilience, and the human spirit, offering a poignant narrative that transcends the conventional boundaries of romance.
Mahira Khan, who plays the titular role of Neelofar, a blind woman, shares her journey of preparation and the emotional depth required to bring such a character to life. ‘It was no easy feat,’ Mahira admits. She spent time observing a visually impaired girl in Karachi and drew inspiration from films like ‘Sparsh’, which taught her that blindness is not just a condition but a state of being. ‘You have to feel it from within,’ she emphasizes, highlighting the importance of internalizing the character’s experiences.
Fawad Khan, who not only stars in the film but also serves as its producer, discusses the film’s simplicity and its reliance on Urdu poetry to enhance the narrative. ‘It is a very simple film,’ Fawad clarifies, dispelling notions of it being overly philosophical or artsy. He believes that the film’s charm lies in its unadorned portrayal of romance in Lahore, devoid of unnecessary frills.
The duo, known for their on-screen chemistry, reflects on the expectations and pressures that come with their pairing. ‘Too much of anything is bad,’ Fawad laughs, while Mahira acknowledges the heavy load of public expectations. Despite the buzz surrounding their collaboration, both actors remain focused on the craft rather than the commercial aspects of their partnership.
As they navigate the challenges of their profession, both Mahira and Fawad share insights into the emotional toll of acting and the importance of variety in their roles. ‘I do not want to stay in a state of melancholy,’ Mahira says, emphasizing the need to balance intense roles with lighter ones. Fawad echoes this sentiment, highlighting the occupational hazards of constantly playing troubled characters.
In a world where social media often amplifies criticism, both actors have learned to navigate the noise with grace. ‘I try to ignore as much as I can,’ Fawad admits, while Mahira finds solace in her work, where she feels most alive. ‘I just feel sorry for them,’ she says, referring to those who throw stones in her path.
‘Neelofar’ promises to be a heartfelt exploration of love and resilience, brought to life by two of South Asia’s most celebrated actors. As they continue to push the boundaries of their craft, Mahira and Fawad Khan remind us of the power of storytelling and the enduring magic of cinema.
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Venice’s storied La Fenice opera house protests appointment of musical director with ties to Meloni
Venice’s iconic La Fenice opera house is at the center of a heated dispute following the controversial appointment of Beatrice Venezi, a 35-year-old conductor with political ties to Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The decision, made by La Fenice’s general manager Nicola Colabianchi, has sparked protests from the theater’s orchestra and chorus, who argue that Venezi lacks the necessary experience and that her selection process bypassed their input. Colabianchi defends the choice, citing Venezi’s youth, dynamism, and ability to attract media attention as assets that will rejuvenate the historic theater. However, critics question her qualifications, pointing to the legacy of renowned conductors like Arturo Toscanini and Claudio Abbado who have led La Fenice in the past. The controversy has escalated, with workers striking, unions demanding Colabianchi’s resignation, and protests planned in solidarity with other Italian opera houses. Venezi, who has canceled public appearances to avoid further controversy, has yet to address the dispute directly. The unions emphasize that their objections are not based on Venezi’s age, gender, or political affiliations but on the lack of consultation with the musicians she is expected to lead. Colabianchi has apologized for the oversight but remains steadfast in his decision, insisting that Venezi’s talent and potential justify her appointment. The standoff continues, casting a shadow over La Fenice’s future as it navigates this contentious chapter.
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Chinese film week builds bridges with Australian audiences
The 2025 Chinese Film Week, held in major Australian cities, has successfully bridged cultural gaps between China and Australia through the power of cinema. Organized by the Chinese embassy in Australia, China Lion Film Entertainment Co, and CMC Pictures Group, the event showcased six of this year’s most popular Chinese films, including the record-breaking animated feature *Ne Zha 2*. The festival attracted hundreds of attendees, including Australian retiree Denis Doherty, who expressed his enthusiasm for Chinese animation and its portrayal of traditional values like family ties and filial piety. Chinese Consul General in Sydney Wang Yu emphasized the significance of the event, linking it to China’s recent economic and social development plans, which underscore the nation’s commitment to openness and global cooperation. He highlighted cinema as a universal language that fosters cross-cultural dialogue and mutual understanding. Robert Kok, a Sydney city councillor, praised the festival for its ability to expose audiences to new cultural perspectives, while Peter Weitzel of the Australia-China Friendship Society noted the historical role of film in promoting bilateral ties. Indarjit Khuman of the Ethnic Communities’ Council of New South Wales lauded the enduring strength of Chinese family values, which resonate across cultures. The event not only entertained but also deepened cultural appreciation and strengthened the bonds between China and Australia.
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China-US friendship revisited
The documentary ‘Dear Kuliang,’ which premiered in Los Angeles on Friday, sheds light on the enduring bonds between Chinese and American families in Kuliang, a historic summer retreat near Fuzhou, China. The film, co-produced by China and the US, narrates the journey of Holly, a US high school student and descendant of the Carleton family, as she explores her ancestral roots in Kuliang. The documentary intertwines her story with archival materials and oral histories, presenting a dual-time narrative of the past and present. The premiere, part of the 21st Chinese American Film Festival, was accompanied by a special screening and a Kuliang photo exhibition at Loyola Marymount University. Guo Shaochun, Chinese Consul-General in Los Angeles, highlighted the ‘Kuliang Bond’ as a symbol of mutual understanding and genuine friendship between the two nations. Eric Johnston, a Los Angeles educator and member of the Kuliang research team, emphasized the positive history of cross-cultural friendships in Kuliang, where American and Chinese families lived and worked together harmoniously. The documentary, praised by Oscar-winning sound effects editor Richard Anderson and film producer Andre Morgan, aims to educate American audiences about the rich history of Sino-American relations. ‘Dear Kuliang’ will air on major domestic and international platforms, including the History Channel and Southeast TV, starting Monday.
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China’s Labubu ‘la-wins’ another global accolade
Labubu, the whimsical forest monster toy from Chinese toy maker Pop Mart, has been crowned China’s most recognizable and influential pop culture intellectual property (IP) in a newly released report. The accolade was announced at the World Internet Conference Wuzhen Summit in Zhejiang province, where the Academy of Contemporary China and World Studies unveiled its annual assessment of Chinese cultural IPs’ global impact. Labubu outperformed blockbuster films like *Dead To Rights* and *Ne Zha 2*, which secured second and third places, respectively. The report, which analyzed data from over 4,000 global media outlets, social platforms, and AI models like DeepSeek and ChatGPT, highlighted the growing resonance of Chinese cultural symbols worldwide. Li Yafang, head of the academy, emphasized that these IPs no longer aim to ‘preach’ but instead use high-quality products and compelling narratives to foster global understanding of China. Experts attribute Labubu’s success to its ‘cute, odd yet healing’ design and the thrill of blind-box purchases, which resonate deeply with young audiences. Meanwhile, films like *Ne Zha 2* and *Dead To Rights* have captivated international audiences by blending universal themes with Chinese cultural roots. The report also identified Chengdu’s World Games, Chongqing’s ‘cyber city’ image, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit in Tianjin as top local-culture hotspots with international influence. These findings underscore China’s evolving cultural footprint on the global stage.
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‘Looking China’ brings American youth closer to Chinese culture
The Looking China — Foreign Youth Film Program has been a transformative cultural exchange initiative for over a decade, bringing young filmmakers from around the world closer to Chinese culture. Since its inception in 2011, the program has evolved into a significant platform for international youth to explore and document the diverse facets of Chinese society. Participants, many visiting China for the first time, have created over 1,150 short documentaries, capturing the essence of rural villages, heritage artisans, and emerging creative industries across 14 provincial-level regions. These films have garnered over 200 international awards and reached an estimated 600 million viewers worldwide. Christine Jiaqi An, a Chinese American filmmaker, shared her profound experience of reconnecting with her roots during her 2024 trip to Guizhou province, where she filmed ‘Timeless Voices,’ a documentary highlighting indigenous oral traditions. Similarly, Mateo Nikolav, a UCLA film student, directed ‘Sixty Seconds,’ which delves into the life of a young actor navigating China’s burgeoning creative industry. Sammi Su from the University of Southern California explored the cultural identity of Shaxian through its iconic snack culture in her film ‘Shaxian Snacks.’ The program’s founder, Huang Huilin, emphasized its role in sharing Chinese stories globally, allowing international audiences to experience the warmth of China through diverse and youthful perspectives. The recent China-US Film and TV Night in Los Angeles, themed ‘Recording Friendship Through Light and Shadow,’ showcased the program’s impact, featuring screenings and discussions on the enduring spirit of cultural exchange. Chinese Consul General Guo Shaochun highlighted the importance of storytelling in fostering mutual understanding, while Hollywood producer Andre Morgan underscored the power of shared experiences in overcoming misunderstandings and building cultural bridges.
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Andrew Miller and Kiran Desai are favorites to win the Booker Prize for fiction
The literary world is abuzz as the Booker Prize 2024 ceremony approaches, with British novelist Andrew Miller and Indian author Kiran Desai emerging as the frontrunners. The prestigious award, which comes with a £50,000 ($66,000) prize and a significant boost to the winner’s literary career, will be announced in London on Monday. The six finalists, selected from 153 submissions, are being judged by a panel that includes acclaimed Irish writer Roddy Doyle and actress Sarah Jessica Parker.