The trailer for Kartik Aaryan’s upcoming film Chandu Champion was released in Gwalior amidst much fanfare. The actor, overwhelmed by the trailer’s positive reception, expressed his gratitude on social media.
He shared a photo and wrote, “GRATEFUL for your OVERWHELMING response to our #ChanduChampion trailer. The love pouring in from all corners didn’t allow me to sleep the entire night. Have been reading each and every response on all platforms. Your love is my superpower, which makes me feel like a Champion every day. Audience देवों भव! #14th June #ChanduChampion #Sajid Nadiadwala @kabirkhankk @wardakhannadiadwala.”
Chandu Champion, directed by Kabir Khan, is a biographical drama inspired by the life of India’s first Paralympic swimmer, Murlikant Petkar. Aaryan takes on the titular role, portraying Petkar’s journey that undoubtedly demanded immense physical and mental transformation.
The trailer throws us into 1967, two years after a war injury knocks Chandu unconscious. We then embark on an emotional rollercoaster. A flashback reveals a young Chandu declaring his wrestling dreams to his teacher. Met with taunts and the mocking nickname “Chandu Champion,” we see the spark that ignites his determination. This glimpse into his past hints at a journey of overcoming challenges and erasing that derisive label, setting the stage for a powerful story.
Chandu Champion, co-produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and Kabir Khan, releases on June 14, 2024.
Indian filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, known for his visually stunning and emotionally charged historical epics, has recently shed light on his creative process behind the highly talked about series Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar. Bhansali, whose dedication extends beyond box office success, prioritizes crafting immersive experiences for his audience. This series marked his first for a streaming platform and did get mixed reactions for its historical accuracy.
In a recent interview with Bollywood Hungama, Bhansali discussed his vision for Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, set against the backdrop of a bygone era. While the narrative unfolds within a historical context, Bhansali emphasized that the series is driven by his artistic imagination. He aspires to create a world that resonates with viewers on a deeper level, even if the specific details deviate slightly from historical records.
When asked what fascinates him about depicting stories of courtesans, Bhansali said, “These women are, number one, beautiful. These women were very sophisticated and trained in etiquette and they knew the art of living in terms of poetry. They knew tradition, and they knew the art of classical dancing and classical music, but they also had stories of suffering that went through a lot of turmoil. And that was the fun of showing them all dressed in those diamonds and the things that they were saying something. They had their own inner politics; they had to help fight as much to survive as a middle-class woman would be or a lower-class woman, a woman or a man has to survive and they go through their own struggles.”
He continued, “So, I have not only shown the glamorous part but there is a lot of inner suffering of every close-up of every move of why she’s reacting like this, what she went through, or what she wants to achieve. Or to stand by the tradition of every daughter having to be a tawaif as the girl protesting and saying I don’t want to. So as a mother (Mallikajaan played by Manisha Koirala), she gives us the supreme sacrifice of getting out of it.”
“These are turmoil stories that we created, some from hearsay; some from real characters,” he stated. “Not my work is not supposed to be seen as if rooted in reality, in a documentary on Lahore and Heeramandi. It’s an impression of Lahore. It is an impression of Heeramandi. It’s an impression of artisans and living that life. I cannot understand how it can be realistic because I have not lived in that era. I have not seen that world, I cannot document it as, as clearly as the Heermandi of today from the Heeramandi of the 30s or 20s. So when you’re creating a work of fiction, it is just to create an experience for you to say what maybe those women went through. That is the joy of filmmaking. I like to create an atmosphere and an impression on your mind of what I perceive that moment to be.”
He added, “These women fought for freedom. They were all trapped – Gangubai was trapped, Mastani was trapped. Women who are used for their beauty or their bodies, and have to survive because of that, or women who want to escape that lack of dignity. The lack of dignity is the worst punishment granted to a human being because dignity is every human being’s right. Every woman should be granted dignity. This is what Gangubai said even if I’m because of whatever circumstances forced into prostitution, then be proud. I’m proud that I’m a prostitute; I give my profession dignity. I will do it with commitment. So these women when they found a purpose in Azadi and freedom, people should understand that these are multi-layer women, they’re just not about clothes and fancy songs and song picturisation. There is a lot more.”
Heeramandi, which translates to “Diamond Market,” delves into the lives of courtesans within Lahore’s red-light district during the British Raj. The series boasts an ensemble cast, including established actresses like Manisha Koirala and Sonakshi Sinha, alongside Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Sharmin Segal and Sanjeeda Shaikh.
Kartik Aaryan, in a display of resilience mirroring the spirit of his upcoming film Chandu Champion, launched the movie’s trailer in his hometown Gwalior on Saturday. This event came just days after Aaryan suffered a devastating personal loss – his relatives Manoj Chansoria and Anita Chansoria were among the 16 victims of a tragic hoarding collapse in Mumbai’s Ghatkopar area during thunderstorm and rains. Their bodies were recovered two days later, and Aaryan had been present for their funeral. Yet, he stood alongside director Kabir Khan and producer Sajid Nadiadwala for the trailer launch in Gwalior.
“This is a dream come true moment for me,” he shared with the cheering crowd of over a thousand at the Captain Roop Singh Cricket stadium. “This is where I dreamt of becoming an actor, and to bring the toughest film of my career here is incredibly special.”
He acknowledged the emotional strain, stating, “Kaafi kuch chal raha hai meri life mein (a lot is going on in my life),” but emphasized the importance of moving forward, “the show must go on.”
Chandu Champion, directed by Kabir Khan, is a biographical drama inspired by the life of India’s first Paralympics swimmer, Murlikant Petkar. Aaryan takes on the titular role, portraying Petkar’s journey that undoubtedly demanded immense physical and mental transformation. Khan co-wrote the screenplay with Sumit Arora and Rohit Shukre, while Sajid Nadiadwala serves as producer under the Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment banner.
The trailer throws us into 1967, two years after a war injury knocks Chandu unconscious. We then embark on an emotional rollercoaster. A flashback reveals a young Chandu declaring his wrestling dreams to his teacher. Met with taunts and the mocking nickname “Chandu Champion,” we see the spark that ignites his determination. This glimpse into his past hints at a journey of overcoming challenges and erasing that derisive label, setting the stage for a powerful story.
The film’s release is slated for June 14, marking Aaryan’s first silver screen appearance of 2024. He is also gearing up for the release of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 later this year.
Kiara Advani recently graced the red carpet at the prestigious Women in Cinema Gala dinner held alongside the 77th Cannes Film Festival. The event, hosted by Vanity Fair, celebrates the achievements of women across the international film industry, making it a significant moment for Advani’s burgeoning career.
Kiara Advani turned heads with a stunning off-shoulder silk pink and black gown, complete with a dramatic bow at the back and black lace gloves. Her high bun hairstyle accentuated the statement necklace and black lace gloves, creating a sophisticated and glamorous look.
Speaking at the event, Advani expressed her humility at being honoured. “It’s very humbling,” she stated, “It’s going to be a decade in my career now. So I think it comes at a very special moment as well. I’m truly so humbled to be here at Cannes for the first time and be honoured by the Red Sea Foundation for Women in Cinema. It’s just such a humbling experience.”
The Women in Cinema Gala isn’t just about red carpets and glitz. It’s a platform that recognizes and empowers female storytellers, from filmmakers and actors to other key contributors who are actively shaping the cinematic landscape. Advani was honoured alongside other prominent figures like Aseel Omran (Egypt), Adhwa Fahad (Saudi Arabia), Ramata-Toulaye Sy (Senegal), Sarocha Chankimha (Thailand), and Salma Abu Deif (Egypt). The Red Sea Film Foundation’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, @RedSeaFilm, shared pictures of the event, highlighting these six women as “fiercely redefining what is possible for future generations of female storytellers.”
During the event, #VFEuropeXRedSeaIFF honoured six women who are fiercely redefining what is possible for future generations of female storytellers: Aseel Omran, Adhwa Fahad, Ramata-Toulaye Sy, Sarocha Chankimha aka Freen, Kiara Advani and Salma Abu Deif. pic.twitter.com/fICIH89u7Z
وتتضمن قائمة المكرمات لهذه النسخة من حفل #المرأة_في_السينما الممثلة السعودية المتميزة سلمى أبو ضيف، المخرجة راماتا تولاي سي، والممثلة السعودية أضوى فهد، والممثلة والمغنية السعودية أسيل عمران، والممثلة الهندية كيارا أدفاني، والنجمة التايلاندية ساروتشا تشانكيمها والشهيرة بـ”فرين”. pic.twitter.com/Pqp8kNhpN6
Meanwhile, Kiara Advani’s upcoming projects include the highly anticipated action film War 2 with Hrithik Roshan and Jr. NTR, and the drama Game Changer alongside Ram Charan.
Sobhita Dhulipala stole the show at a glamorous event held on the sidelines of the 77th Cannes Film Festival. The actress, who recently graced social media with stunning pictures from the soiree, represented the ice cream brand Magnum at the French Riviera gathering.
The theme of the event, aptly titled “Welcome To The Pleasure Express,” resonated perfectly with Dhulipala’s caption, which described an evening filled with “Euphoria, wonder, chill.” Highlighting the electrifying atmosphere, she mentioned captivating music, dazzling drag queen performances, delectable food, and an overall vibe that hit all the right notes. Dhulipala’s post concluded with a celebratory, “Life’s giving, baby,” encapsulating the spirit of the evening.
Dhulipala truly embodied the theme of pleasure and extravagance in a dazzling jumpsuit designed by the renowned Indian fashion couturier Namrata Joshipura. The Cordelia Jumpsuit, a sleeveless masterpiece crafted in a deep purple shade, exuded glamour with its intricate sequin work. The official website of the designer lists the outfit at a cool Rs. 1,80,000, reflecting its luxurious quality.
The cropped bodice featured a plunging V-neckline, adding a touch of daring allure. Broad straps provided support and balanced the revealing neckline. Dhulipala’s wavy locks cascaded down her shoulders, framing her face accentuated by subtle makeup. The overall look was a perfect blend of elegance, sophistication, and a hint of boldness.
Beyond the fashion buzz, Dhulipala’s presence at Cannes signifies her growing stature in the Indian film industry. Her debut film, Raman Raghav 2.0, premiered at the prestigious festival back in 2016, marking a significant early step in her career. This year’s appearance highlights her continued journey as she recently made her Hollywood debut with Dev Patel’s Monkey Man.
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