分类: entertainment

  • Pakistani producer Abdullah Seja on ‘Sher’, Dubai’s creative scene, and the future of Urdu content

    Pakistani producer Abdullah Seja on ‘Sher’, Dubai’s creative scene, and the future of Urdu content

    Abdullah Seja, the visionary producer behind hit shows like ‘Sher’ and ‘Kaisi Teri Khudgharzi’, has become a prominent figure in the Urdu entertainment industry. With ‘Sher’ amassing over 4 billion views across platforms, Seja’s production house, Idream Entertainment, has solidified its place in the global streaming landscape. In a recent interview with City Times, Seja shared insights into his creative journey, the evolving habits of content consumers, and his vision for the future of Urdu content.

    Seja emphasized the responsibility that comes with producing content, stating, ‘Delivering content is always a responsibility; you have to be relevant to the society you’re producing for.’ He highlighted the importance of understanding diverse audience segments and creating relatable narratives. Dubai, which he describes as his ‘second home,’ plays a pivotal role in his creative process. ‘Dubai is a melting pot for all creative individuals,’ he noted, adding that the city’s dynamic environment helps him align his vision with global trends and market dynamics.

    Seja also discussed the growing connection between his content and the UAE’s diverse diaspora. With ARY, a major channel in the UAE, airing his shows, he has established a strong foothold in the region. He expressed optimism about future collaborations with local channels and stakeholders in the MENA region, aiming to produce more Urdu-based content tailored to the expatriate audience.

    Looking ahead, Seja believes that content consumption will continue to evolve, with platforms like YouTube enabling personalized viewing experiences. ‘Content consumption is very personalized,’ he explained, noting that algorithms now push similar dramas to viewers based on their preferences. Despite these changes, he remains confident in the timeless nature of storytelling, stating, ‘There are only seven stories in the world; the execution and packaging will evolve.’

    Seja’s approach to producing diverse content, from mass entertainers like ‘Sher’ to neighborhood dramas like ‘Sharpasand’, reflects his understanding of varied audience tastes. ‘Every drama will have its own life,’ he remarked, emphasizing that each project resonates uniquely with its audience. As he continues to innovate and collaborate, Seja is poised to shape the future of Urdu content on a global scale.

  • ‘They refused to take auditions’: Sonam Bajwa reveals her struggle against typecasting in Bollywood

    ‘They refused to take auditions’: Sonam Bajwa reveals her struggle against typecasting in Bollywood

    Actress Sonam Bajwa, renowned for her work in Punjabi cinema, has recently opened up about her struggles with typecasting in Bollywood. Despite her impressive filmography in Punjabi films, Bajwa revealed that Hindi filmmakers often pigeonholed her as merely a glamorous face, overlooking her acting capabilities. This perception delayed her entry into Bollywood, where she had to wait years for a role that showcased her talent beyond her appearance. Bajwa is currently receiving acclaim for her performance in the newly released film ‘Ek Deewane ki Deewaniyat,’ co-starring Harshvardhan Rane. In the film, she plays an actress who challenges toxic love, a role that allowed her to demonstrate her acting prowess. In an interview with ANI, Bajwa expressed her frustration with the industry’s reluctance to consider her for performance-oriented roles, often dismissing her without auditions. She emphasized that her social media presence and public appearances might have contributed to this narrow perception. Despite these challenges, Bajwa has successfully transitioned into Bollywood with roles in ‘Housefull 5’ and ‘Baaghi 4.’ Her journey highlights the persistent issue of typecasting in the film industry and the resilience required to overcome such barriers.

  • ‘No complaints, I am happy’: Emraan Hashmi on his viral scene in ‘The Ba***ds of Bollywood’

    ‘No complaints, I am happy’: Emraan Hashmi on his viral scene in ‘The Ba***ds of Bollywood’

    Emraan Hashmi has expressed his delight over the viral response to a memorable scene in the Netflix series ‘The Ba***ds of Bollywood,’ directed by Aryan Khan. The series has garnered significant attention for its portrayal of Bollywood, with one particular scene featuring actor Raghav Juyal, who plays a devoted fan of Hashmi, singing the actor’s popular song ‘Kaho Na Kaho’ and delivering a dialogue that lauds Hashmi’s dominance in the industry. The dialogue, ‘Akkha Bollywood ek taraf, Emraan Hashmi ek taraf (Whole Bollywood at one side, Emraan Hashmi on another),’ has resonated deeply with audiences. Hashmi, speaking at the trailer launch event of his upcoming film ‘Haq,’ shared his joy at being associated with this dialogue rather than his previous on-screen image. ‘We knew it would go viral, but not to this extent,’ he remarked. ‘Now, people remember that dialogue when they talk about me. So I have no complaints. I am happy.’ ‘Haq,’ directed by Suparn S Varma, is a courtroom drama based on the famous Mohd Ahmed Khan vs Shah Bano Begum case from the 1980s, with Hashmi and Yami Gautam in the lead roles. The film is set to release in November.

  • ‘Dubai brought me back to myself’: How city helped Chetan Bhagat reinvent himself

    ‘Dubai brought me back to myself’: How city helped Chetan Bhagat reinvent himself

    Renowned Indian author and screenwriter Chetan Bhagat has found a new creative haven in Dubai, where he has been residing for the past year and a half. In a recent interview with City Times, Bhagat revealed how the city has helped him rediscover his passion for writing and provided the tranquility he sought. His latest book, ’12 Years, My Messed Up Love Story,’ reflects his experiences and the evolving dynamics of modern relationships. Bhagat’s protagonist, a 21-year-old girl in love with a divorced 33-year-old man, navigates themes of love, lust, and societal expectations. The book aims to offer a refreshing contrast to the dark and violent content dominating OTT platforms. Bhagat, who rose to fame with ‘Five Point Someone’ and ‘2 States,’ admitted that the glitz of Bollywood and the pressures of fame had overshadowed his joy for writing. Moving to Dubai allowed him to reconnect with his craft and focus on personal growth. Now 51, Bhagat emphasizes the importance of internal fulfillment over external success, embracing a quieter, more introspective lifestyle. His journey serves as an inspiration for those seeking to balance creativity with authenticity.

  • Rising star James Zijian Wei’s debut recital at Carnegie Hall in New York hailed as ‘incredible’

    Rising star James Zijian Wei’s debut recital at Carnegie Hall in New York hailed as ‘incredible’

    James Zijian Wei, a 26-year-old Chinese pianist, made a stunning debut at Carnegie Hall’s Zankel Hall in New York City on Sunday, earning widespread acclaim for his performance. The recital, which featured works by Mozart, Beethoven, Scriabin, and Samuel Barber, captivated the audience, earning him multiple standing ovations. Wei’s delicate and melancholic style, combined with his technical mastery, left a lasting impression on attendees. Wendy Zhulkovsky, an audience member from Connecticut, praised his playful footwork and stage presence, calling the performance ‘incredible.’ Wei, who recently won the 2024 Mixon First Prize at the Cleveland International Piano Competition, expressed his joy in sharing music as a universal language. He described performing at Carnegie Hall as a dream come true, emphasizing the venue’s significance. Yaron Kohlberg, artistic director of the Cleveland International Piano Competition, highlighted Wei’s authenticity and maturity, noting his extraordinary control of sound and mastery of the instrument. Wei, who has performed with renowned orchestras worldwide, aims to create his own unique sound, aspiring to be recognized for his distinct musical voice. The recital concluded with Wei expressing his hope that music can bring solace and joy to people, regardless of life’s challenges.

  • Hong Kong’s ‘King of Supporting Actors’ Benz Hui dies aged 76

    Hong Kong’s ‘King of Supporting Actors’ Benz Hui dies aged 76

    Benz Hui, a revered figure in Hong Kong’s entertainment industry and affectionately known as the ‘King of Supporting Actors,’ has died at the age of 76. The veteran performer, whose real name was Hui Shiu-hung, passed away in the early hours of Tuesday at a Hong Kong hospital due to complications from cancer, as reported by local media.

  • How a Hollywood tour guide discovered an unknown celebrity grave

    How a Hollywood tour guide discovered an unknown celebrity grave

    For decades, it was widely believed that Elsa Lanchester, the iconic actress who brought the Bride of Frankenstein to life in the 1935 Universal Horror classic, had been cremated and her ashes scattered at sea following her death in 1986. However, Scott Michaels, a historian and founder of Dearly Departed Tours, recently uncovered a surprising truth: Lanchester’s cremated remains were interred in a rose garden under her married name, Elsa Lanchester Laughton. This revelation, nearly 40 years after her passing, has reignited interest in the actress’s legacy. Michaels, a specialist in Hollywood’s darker history, has dedicated his career to uncovering forgotten stories of the entertainment industry. His discovery led him to organize a crowdfunding campaign to install a formal wall marker at Valhalla Memorial Park in North Hollywood, where Lanchester’s ashes rest. The unveiling ceremony is set for October 28, 2025, coinciding with what would have been her 123rd birthday. Lanchester, born in London in 1902, began her career as a child actor in theatre and cabaret before rising to fame in Hollywood. Her portrayal of the Bride of Frankenstein, with her electrifying hairstyle and haunting presence, cemented her place in film history. Despite her success, Lanchester’s posthumous legacy had been overshadowed by misconceptions about her final resting place. Michaels’ discovery not only corrects the record but also honors Lanchester’s contributions to cinema. Her role as the Bride remains a beloved Halloween costume and a symbol of horror’s golden age. Michaels, who has consulted on projects like Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,’ is known for his passion for unsung Hollywood figures. His efforts to memorialize Lanchester reflect his commitment to preserving the legacies of marginalized or forgotten stars. This story also highlights the enduring cultural impact of Lanchester’s work, as Universal Studios recently celebrated the 90th anniversary of ‘Bride of Frankenstein’ with special merchandise and editions. A blue plaque was also unveiled at her childhood home in London, commemorating her and her mother Edith, a socialist, feminist, and suffragette. Michaels’ discovery serves as a reminder of the importance of historical accuracy and the power of storytelling in keeping the legacies of Hollywood’s pioneers alive.

  • Salman Khan to make his live debut in Qatar with ‘Da-Bangg: The Tour Reloaded’

    Salman Khan to make his live debut in Qatar with ‘Da-Bangg: The Tour Reloaded’

    Doha is gearing up for an unforgettable evening of Bollywood grandeur as Salman Khan, one of India’s most iconic actors, prepares to make his live debut in Qatar. The much-awaited event, titled ‘Da-Bangg: The Tour Reloaded,’ is scheduled for November 14, 2025, at the Asian Town Amphitheatre. This open-air venue will be transformed into a dazzling stage for a night of music, dance, and cinematic brilliance. The show promises to be a cultural extravaganza, showcasing the vibrant spirit of Indian entertainment. Salman Khan will be joined by a constellation of Bollywood stars, including Tamannaah Bhatia, Jacqueline Fernandez, Sonakshi Sinha, Stebin Ben, Sunil Grover, Prabhu Deva, and Maniesh Paul. Together, they will deliver electrifying performances that are sure to captivate the audience. Adding a unique touch to the event, 100 young performers will have the rare opportunity to share the stage with Salman Khan. Auditions for this once-in-a-lifetime chance will be held on October 30 and 31, 2025, at the Mall of Qatar’s Oasis Stage. The event is meticulously scripted and directed by Sohail Khan Entertainment and JA Events, ensuring top-notch production quality, choreography, and visual effects. Attendees can anticipate a breathtaking stage design, immersive lighting, and a cinematic experience that embodies the essence of Bollywood. Organized by Orbit Events & Marketing and Studiokraft, in collaboration with Rami Productions and Amlark, the event is proudly presented by Peace Homes Development, a Dubai-based real estate brand known for its innovation and excellence. The event’s prestige is further elevated by its sponsors, including Qatar Calendar and Visit Qatar as Platinum Sponsors, Baladna Dairy as the Powered By Sponsor, and Mall of Qatar as the Official Venue Partner. Additional support comes from Qatar Insurance Company, Business Bay, and VK Films, highlighting the regional significance of the show. Tickets for ‘Salman Khan Live in Qatar – Da-Bangg: The Tour Reloaded’ are now available on platforms like Platinumlist, Q-Tickets, Virgin Tickets, and Snoonu, with prices starting at QAR 100. Various ticket categories, including Silver, Gold, Diamond, VIP, VVIP, Red Carpet, and Meet & Greet packages, offer fans exclusive access to Salman Khan and the star-studded lineup.

  • Neena Gupta, Sanjay Mishra starrer ‘Vadh 2’ to release in theatres on February 6

    Neena Gupta, Sanjay Mishra starrer ‘Vadh 2’ to release in theatres on February 6

    The highly anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed film ‘Vadh,’ titled ‘Vadh 2,’ is set to hit theaters on February 6, 2026. The announcement was made by veteran actress Neena Gupta via her Instagram handle, where she shared a motion poster of the film. The original film, ‘Vadh,’ directed by Jaspal Singh Sandhu and produced by Luv Ranjan and Ankur Garg’s Luv Films, was released in 2022 and garnered significant attention for its gripping narrative and powerful performances. ‘Vadh 2’ serves as a spiritual sequel, continuing the legacy of its predecessor. Neena Gupta, who plays a pivotal role in the film, expressed her excitement, stating, ‘It’s rare to find stories with such a unique voice. Jaspal has an eye for truth and tension that makes him a standout storyteller. I am so proud to be part of this journey once again.’ Sanjay Mishra, another key cast member, also shared his enthusiasm, describing ‘Vadh’ as more than just a film but a cinematic experience that resonated deeply with audiences. The sequel promises to deliver a fresh yet familiar narrative, exploring themes of morality and justice. The release date announcement follows the completion of filming, with both actors expressing their gratitude and anticipation for the audience’s reaction.

  • Indian actor Sachin Chandwade, of Jamtara 2 fame, dies by suicide: Media reports

    Indian actor Sachin Chandwade, of Jamtara 2 fame, dies by suicide: Media reports

    In a heartbreaking turn of events, Indian actor Sachin Chandwade, renowned for his role in the popular series ‘Jamtara 2’, has died by suicide at the age of 25. The young actor, who was also an engineer, tragically ended his life at his residence. Just days before his untimely death, Chandwade had shared the poster of his upcoming Marathi film, ‘Asurvan’, showcasing his continued passion for his craft. According to Indian media reports, family members discovered him hanging from a ceiling fan and immediately rushed him to the hospital. Despite medical intervention, his condition worsened, and he succumbed to his injuries during treatment. Chandwade’s sudden demise has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and his fan base, leaving many to mourn the loss of a promising talent. The circumstances surrounding his death remain under investigation, as friends, family, and colleagues grapple with the tragedy.