Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed starrer Barzakh poster unveiled at the Series Mania Festival 2023, see photos

Prior to its world premiere at the Series Mania Festival, the creators of Zindagi’s original show Barzakh, starring actors Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed unveiled the show poster in the French city of Lille. Barzakh is helmed by critically acclaimed director Asim Abbasi who also directed Zindagi’s first original Churails and the feature film Cake. Gracing the event were writer-director Asim Abbasi, actor Sanam Saeed, and Producer Shailja Kejriwal.

Barzakh has the distinct honour of being the only series selected from South Asia. The series will debut in the showcase’s International Panorama, a 12-title competitive section where it will be eligible for the best series, director, actress, actor, student jury, and audience awards.

A family drama centered around an elderly man’s quest for love, Barzakh explores intergenerational trauma between fathers and sons. The narrative is framed within a fantastical world of supernatural beings and otherworldly events that reveal the chasms between life, death, and rebirth.

Fawad Khan portrays the role of a single parent, who is charming but at the same time filled with a lot of guilt for something that he has lost. Elated at Barzakh making the Series Mania cut, Fawad said, “Coinciding with our Series Mania premiere, our poster that we now reveal to the world offers an early glimpse into what can be expected from the series – abstract beauty and ambiguity that reflects the complexities in navigating human relationships in a post-modern world.”

Held annually at Lille, the Series Mania festival, since its inception in 2010, has been instrumental in recognizing and curating the best series from across the world. The festival brings together the best screenwriters, directors, and artists together under one roof.

Sanam Saeed who plays the central female character said, “It is simply surreal to be attending the Series Mania Festival. Barzakh is a story that I connected with from the minute I heard it and in Asim Abbasi’s hands, it’s been crafted into a moving, beautiful series that will renew our faith in love and life. It’s what led me to not only take on the challenging role but also made me look at life in a different light. It is very different from what we have seen on screen and all the actors have performed extremely different diverse roles. I am so proud of this series and am honoured that it is having its world premiere at the Series Mania Festival.”

Asim shot this series in Karachi and the picturesque Hunza Valley in Pakistan. Barzakh blends magical realism and supernatural fantasy within a family reunion setting and deals with themes of love, loss, and reconciliation.

 

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Talking about Barzakh and the poster, Asim adds, “Love and memory are both central thematic components of Barzakh. We wanted a visual that represented love in its eternal manifestation, but, which like memory, also had a fleeting, ephemeral quality about – like time slipping by and evaporating around us, leaving behind a distant, but vivid, memory of the moment it all began.”

Barzakh is produced by Waqas Hassan and Shailja Kejriwal. Sharing her excitement about the premiere, Shailja Kejriwal adds, “Barzakh is the first ever Indo-Pak cross-border series to premiere globally, and presenting it to the world together as a team is truly an emotional moment. Amidst the excitement, we are extremely proud to be presenting the series poster – as enigmatic and as beautiful as the series we have collectively created. This has been a genuine labour of love that has transcended borders, signified by the fact that we will be premiering to a wholly international audience that has gathered from across the globe. Barzakh has come to fruition through unified passion, vision, and bravery from all involved and I would like to extend my wholehearted gratitude to each artist and crew member, as we could not have mounted this ambitious project alone. We hope audiences and fans of original storytelling from around the world will share in our passion and love for this series.”

ALSO READ: Zindagi Gulzar Hai actor Sanam Saeed opens up on Pakistani artists’ ban in India: ‘Fawad Khan and Mahira really got the brunt’

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Deepika Padukone stuns in all-black avatar as she returns to Mumbai after attending Oscars 2023, watch video

Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone returned to Mumbai on Saturday morning after attending the Oscars 2023 in LA. The actress was a presenter at the 95th Academy Awards where she introduced the Oscar-winning Best Original Song ‘Naatu Naatu’ from RRR to the audience.

At the airport on Saturday, the actress was donning a black full-sleeved top with black latex pants, and boots, and carrying a handbag. She wore sunglasses and wore her hair in a tight bun. She was all smiles as she greeted the paparazzi before getting inside her car.

At the Oscars, Deepika Padukone called ‘Naatu Naatu’ “a total banger,” and “the first song ever from an Indian production to be nominated for an Oscar.” She even attended the Oscars 2023 after-party.

On the work front, Deepika Padukone has a bunch of projects in her kitty, including Fighter opposite Hrithik Roshan and Project K, which will be her first collaboration with South star Prabhas. The upcoming Nag Ashwin directorial will also star Amitabh Bachchan and is slated to release next year in January. She has also signed Singham Again with Rohit Shetty.

 

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ALSO READ: Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, John Abraham starrer Pathaan to premiere on Prime Video on March 22; deleted scenes may be released on OTT version

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UNDP India announces Bhumi Pednekar as their first National Advocate for Sustainable Development Goals

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) announced Bollywood star and a passionate Climate Warrior Bhumi Pednekar as their first National Advocate for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) today. As a National Advocate, Bhumi will support UNDP India’s efforts to raise awareness and mobilize support for the SDGs, a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity by 2030.

Taking on the new role, Bhumi Pednekar said, “I am honoured and privileged to be appointed UNDP National Advocate for the SDGs. I believe it is our collective responsibility to ensure we leave behind a better world for future generations. The SDGs provide a roadmap for building a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous future for all. I look forward to working with UNDP India to raise awareness about the SDGs and inspire people to take action.”

Welcoming Bhumi as the National SDG Advocate, Shoko Noda, Resident Representative, UNDP India, added, “I am thrilled to welcome Bhumi as our first-ever National Advocate for the SDGs. Her talent and dedication to gender equality and sustainability make her an ideal advocate for the Goals. I am confident that her advocacy will inspire many to take action towards a more equitable and sustainable world.”

Bhumi made her first appearance in her new role at the launch of the flagship magazine, Inspiring India. The second edition of the magazine is a tribute to the exceptional women of this country and their indomitable spirit to challenge the status quo, shatter stereotypes and make change happen.

Speaking at the launch event, Bhumi further went on to say, “I am delighted to be a part of this magazine, joining the impressive women from businesses, sports and grassroots. I believe women can change the world, and it’s time to harness that power. Personally, I love playing women who challenge the status quo in society and change the lens of gender. I congratulate UNDP India on celebrating these changemakers who advocate for equality in their ways.”

This edition of Inspiring India has a special message from the honourable President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu. It also features businesswomen and founders of Nykaa, Falguni, and Adwaita Nayar, para-badminton champion Manasi Joshi, captain of the Indian football team Sunil Chhetri, Ecofeminist and Padmashri Awardee Jamuna Tudu and UNDP India’s Youth Climate Champion, Prajakta Koli.

Bhumi has been associated with UNDP India as the Women@Work Champion since 2022. She has raised awareness on issues such as gender-based violence, and climate action. She also voluntarily turned to vegetarianism to tread lighter on the planet.

Also Read: Bhumi Pednekar graces the cover of The Harper’s Bazaar and she looks stunning to say the least!

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Aditya Roy Kapur cannot keep calm as Tom Hiddleston video calls him after watching The Night Manager’s Hindi adaptation

Bollywood actor Aditya Roy Kapur received a call from Tom Hiddleston praising the Hindi adaptation of his show The Night Manager. Aditya seems ecstatic by it. He plays the lead in the popular Disney+ Hotstar series, which is an official adaptation of the English series with Tom in the lead.

The Bollywood hottie teased his followers by posting screenshots of his video chat with the Hollywood actor on his social media account. The post featured a close-up of Tom’s face. Tom was also observed on the call with a few other people. Sharing the post, he captioned, “The OG Night Manager watched our show yesterday ! He had some kind words to say . Bas aur kya chahiye.”

 

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As soon as Aditya shared the post, actress Katrina Kaif commented, “Wow”. Reacting to the post, a fan commented, “Two hotties on a call together! Aur kya chahiye,” another user wrote, “omg i needed this crossover so badly.”

British author John Le Carré, who passed away in December 2020, wrote The Night Manager in 1993. The series is an authorised Hindi adaptation of the corresponding novel by John le Carre.

The plot centres on a former soldier who works as a night manager at a hotel and is hired by a government espionage organisation to infiltrate an arms dealer’s inner circle.

Hiddleston revealed that the second season of the programme is in the works early this month in response to the popularity of the Hindi adaptation. Under the codename “Steelworks,” filming is slated to start in South America and London later this year.

Hindustan Times quoted Aditya saying, “When there’s revenge and betrayal in the mix, high voltage drama is inevitable. The Night Manager pulls this off on the back of fascinatingly complex characters. As they say, still waters run deep, and my character Shaan very much embodies that phrase. One can never tell what’s on his mind but you know the wheels are furiously turning, taking the plot from one unexpected turn to another. It’s been a great experience working with some of the finest talent of the Indian film industry, assembled by the dynamic team at Disney Hotstar.”

Aditya will be next seen in Anurag Basu’s Metro In Dino with an ensemble cast. He also has Gumraah opposite Mrunal Thakur releasing in theatres on April 7, 2023.

Also Read: Gumraah teaser unveiled; Aditya Roy Kapur unveils his grey side as Mrunal Thakur is on a hunt for a murderer

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Child Star: Demi Lovato to make feature directorial debut with Hulu documentary on child stardom

Demi Lovato is officially headed to direct her first feature film, a Hulu documentary focusing on child stardom.

According to Variety, Lovato will co-direct Child Star (working title) alongside Nicola Marsh. Producers include Michael D. Ratner’s OBB Pictures, Lovato’s production banner DLG and Scooter Braun’s SB Projects. The three companies previously worked together on the pop star’s docuseries Dancing With the Devil, which was about Lovato’s personal life and struggles with addiction, particularly their near-fatal overdose in 2018.

Lovato’s upcoming feature-length documentary aims to “deconstruct the highs and lows of growing up in the spotlight through the lens of some of the world’s most famous former child stars, including Lovato,” according to a press release. “The film will explore how children are propelled to superstardom at a young age and how their rise to fame, fortune, and power affects their futures.” The documentary will exclusively stream on Hulu in 2024. Notably, the streaming service is owned by Disney where Lovato began her acting career.

Additionally, the film features a number of interviews with former child stars. “Through intimate conversations led by Lovato, verité footage, and archival material from all subjects involved, the film will reach beyond the traditional narratives seen in op-eds and tabloids to consider the changing nature of growing up in an increasingly connected and public world,” as per the press release.

“There is no better film or topic for my directorial debut than this story, which is close to home,” said Lovato in a statement. “Our project sheds light on important messages about growing up in the public eye, learning to protect our boundaries, and becoming active advocates of our own destinies. I’m humbled to be able to learn from the individuals who have lived the unique experience of child stardom and share their stories in our film.”

The Child Star documentary will exclusively stream on Hulu in 2024.

Also Read: Demi Lovato releases ‘Still Alive’ for Scream VI: ‘An honor to contribute to such an iconic horror franchise’

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Khushi Kapoor’s brown bodycon dress by Manish Malhotra lends a stylish touch to date night outfit

Khushi Kapoor has made a remarkable impact with her fashion experiments, as seen by her thoughtfully maintained Instagram account, which is no less than an up-to-date look book. Whatever the fashion, she has worn it. Khushi Kapoor’s wardrobe has lately caught our attention on Instagram thanks to her high fashion collaboration photoshoot contrasted with her candid picture dumps displaying her noteworthy sartorial interpretation of the season’s top trends. The young actor has repeatedly shown relevant and fashionable attire. The actor’s personal collection is brimming with strong sartorial punch, from daytime knitwear tastefully matched with pleated minis to cut-out items that double as everyday ensembles.

When Khushi Kapoor dresses up for an occasion, it’s tough to take your eyes off her. Don’t you concur? The young fashionista understands how to take over the internet with her effortless ability to wear both ethnic and Western attire. What has she added to her sassy fashion tales recently? The star-child donned a stunning black mesh bodycon dress by Manish Malhotra, one of the world’s most renowned fashion designers. The long dress had a closed neckline and distinctive patterns in a variety of colours from the “Diffuse” collection of the designer. Long sleeves with a chess motif were worn with the ensemble. It’s important to note that Khushi’s curvy body was accentuated by the OOTD’s figure-hugging style. Together with it, she wore earrings and rings. For makeup? She chose contouring, pink eyeshadow, glossy coloured lips, and winged eyeliner. Her hair of half-up, half-down was attractive.

Meanwhile, on the work front, Khushi will be making her debut with The Archies, the upcoming web film will be released on the OTT platform Netflix. Apart from Khushi Kapoor, it stars Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan’s daughter Suhana Khan, Amitabh Bachchan’s grandson and Shweta Bachchan’s son Agastya Nanda, Mihir Ahuja, Aditi Dot, Yuvraj Menda, and Vedang Raina in key roles.

SUMMARY OF LOOK DETAILS:

ACTRESS: Khushi Kapoor

OUTFIT: Manish Malhotra

 

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Also Read: Khushi Kapoor’s yellow strapless dress worth Rs.6K and black mini top handle bag is a perfect date night outfit

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Ananya Panday exudes her radiant glow in sky blue saree by Manish Malhotra for her cousin Alanna Panday’s wedding

Ananya Panday’s sartorial choices have been top-notch since she stepped into Bollywood. With her special wardrobe collection, Ananya has pleased the fashion police at Bollywood birthday parties, red-carpet events, and movie promotions. Ananya is fashionable, even while attending weddings, as seen by this picture. Alana Pandey, a cousin of Ananya Pandey, and her longtime partner Ivor McCrae got married yesterday. Pictures from the pre-wedding events, such as the bridal brunch, mehendi, and sangeet, have been shared by Ananya. The parents of Alana are Dean Pandey and Chikki Pandey. Ananya posted her outfit from her cousin’s wedding a day earlier, and Ananya looked like she had just stepped out of a dream.

Sarees are unique in the world of ethnic clothing. We absolutely adore getting into a saree, whether it’s for a celebration or wedding antics. We do not? More intriguingly, they are adaptable and available in a variety of designs and styles. Ananya Panday has reignited our love for sarees. She chose a gorgeous Manish Malhotra off the designer’s shelves. Sky blue was the lovely hue Ananya chose, with white flower borders adorning the whole saree border. Her outing was really enhanced by the delicate flower scallop motifs. She wore it with a similar strappy top that had a plunging neckline, embroidered silver straps, and silver embroidery all over, giving it a dazzling appearance.

Ananya completed her ensemble with bangles and a pearl necklace. She went for contoured cheeks, kohl-rimmed eyes, plenty of mascara, and a touch of dark brown lip colour for the day. She wore her hair open with soft curls, and it looked stunning.

She added the viral track ‘Dekha Ek Khwab X O Meri Laila (Mashup)’ to the video and in her caption, Ananya Panday wrote: “Ladki waale taiyaar hai (the bride’s squad is ready).” In the comments section, Ananya Panday’s BFF Suhana Khan wrote: “Oh myyyyy,” adding heart-eyed and fire emojis. Designer Manish Malhotra dropped heart emojis in the comments section.

SUMMARY OF LOOK DETAILS:

ACTRESS: Ananya Panday

OUTFIT: Manish Malhotra

STYLIST: Tanya Ghavri

MAKE-UP: Sahithya Shetty

HAIR: Ayesha Devitre

 

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Also Read: Ananya Panday’s beige embroidered lehenga by Tarun Tahiliani is a fail-safe statement piece

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