Latest news with #Fanaa
Time of India
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
‘Sarzameen' X Review: Prithviraj Sukumaran, Kajol praised for 'powerful' performance; Ibrahim Ali Khan's act 'much better' than debut film
'Sarzameen' starring Kajol, Prithviraj Sukumaran and Ibrahim Ali Khan is an emotional thriller set against the tense and sensitive backdrop of Kashmir. The film, which released directly on OTT at midnight on Friday, 25 July, brings together a strong cast under the direction of debut filmmaker Kayoze Irani, son of veteran actor Boman Irani . This patriotic action drama explores how family, love and loyalty can come into conflict during times of political and emotional turmoil. Ibrahim Ali Khan plays a young man struggling with dark secrets, while Kajol and Prithviraj bring depth and power to their emotionally charged roles. Here's a X review of the film: Reviews offer a mix of praise and criticism The reactions online have been mixed. Some viewers called it engaging and emotional, while others found it flat and lacking depth. A user said, '#Sarzameen had a solid premise but failed to deliver. Weak screenplay and direction let it down. Prithvi, Kajol & the rest of the cast did well, but there was no real emotional connect. Overall, a mid watch with no standout moments. AVERAGE' Another shared: '#Sarzameen Did not expect that twist coming.. Else everything was flat and emotionless.. One time watchable if u have time. (Watch after keeping ur brain in locker) Overall : 3/5' A gripping tale of patriotism and pain with a twist Praising the overall impact of the film, a X user posted, '#Sarzameen is a gripping tale of love, loss & patriotism set against the tense backdrop of Kashmir. Taut direction & powerful performances make it an engaging emotional thriller. A solid watch!' One user said,'#Sarzameen Review: SHOCKING, PATRIOTIC & EMOTIONAL. RATING - 4/5 Sarzameen comes with a HUGE twist in the end that you've never seen in any patriotic thriller before. Chilling and emotionally nerve cracking. #PrithvirajSukumar shows what patriotism means and #Kajol showcases true motherhood and love. #IbrahimAliKhan exceeds expectations. Overall, a super watch for patriotic cinema and thriller lovers. ' A one-time watch for some Another viewer wrote, '#SarzameenReview: It has vibes like Mission Kashmir and Fanaa. Rating: 3/5 #Sarzameen is a one time watch film where #PrithvirajSukumaran and #Kajol pull off the dramedy very well whereas the #IbrahimAliKhan's performance is just decent.' "The music was a big misfit imo, really poor. Now for the performances, Prithviraj did his role really well, too good for a poor script. Kajol was good too, ibrahim really surprised oth, he did a really decent job much better from his debut movie much much better."
Mint
13-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Mint
Supreme Court's ‘Thug Life' verdict reinforces cinema's rights. But threat of mob veto still looms
The Supreme Court's direction to the Karnataka government to ensure the release of Kamal Haasan-starrer Thug Life, while expressing concerns over 'extra-judicial' bans, reinforces the freedom and expression and the theatres' right to screen controversial films. But cinemas still hesitate to release such movies unless law enforcement agencies provide effective protection, according to experts. 'The Supreme Court's directive reinforces the principle that freedom of expression cannot be stifled by threats or public pressure," said Tanu Banerjee, partner at Khaitan & Co. 'It sends a strong message that states have a duty to protect lawful film releases, which could encourage similar judicial protection for other contentious works in future." Also Read: Actors ditch urban-centric films for mass-market genres after Covid India has a long history of theatrical releases being disrupted due to protests. This includes Aamir Khan's 2006 film Fanaa, which never released in many theatres in Gujarat after protests against the actor's criticism of the state government's handling of the Narmada dam project. Period drama Padmaavat (2018) faced protests and was banned in many states—the Supreme Court later stayed the state bans. Greenlit, yet under fire The Supreme Court's landmark ruling in the Thug Life case reinforces that once the Central Board of Film Certification has granted clearance, neither mobs nor political pressure should be allowed to override that legal right, said Anupam Shukla, partner, Pioneer Legal. 'This directive reinforces the constitutional guarantee of freedom of speech and expression, asserting that law and order must prevail over the arbitrary dictates of protesting groups. It sets a benchmark. Future filmmakers can now petition the Supreme Court early if local threats emerge." The Supreme Court indeed case paves the way for theatres to take a strong position on releasing films, despite threats of agitation, and similarly empower authorities to deal with the threats in a proactive manner, according to Niharika Karanjawala-Misra, principal associate at Karanjawala & Co. State governments should provide police protection in such instances where there are either threats of violence or protests which might physically derail a particular screening, she added. If threats of violence are allowed to cancel and overthrow film releases, there will only be an increase in such intimidating behaviour, said Karanjawala-Misra. Also Read: How small southern films are defying the odds at the box office Enforcement on the ground is often weak and motivated by various factors locally. A film producer who did not wish to be named pointed out that state governments can still use the 'law and order" excuse to quietly stall releases using their powers under Section 13 of the Cinematograph Act, 1952, and there are rarely any real consequences for those who issue threats or intimidate theatres. Screening hangs by security Gaurav Sahay, founder partner at Arthashastra Legal, said that despite favourable judicial orders, the release of controversial films can still be subjected to real and credible threats from fringe groups, political outfits, or religious factions. Judicial pronouncements often require robust implementation by the executive and law enforcement agencies to be truly effective, Sahay said. There are remedies that a filmmaker can seek if their film doesn't release despite court orders. Alay Razvi, managing partner, Accord Juris, pointed out that they can file contempt petitions against state officials for failure to comply with the Supreme Court's directions or seek compensation claims under the public law remedy for violation of fundamental rights. However, the overreliance on judicial relief could also congest the courts with similar public interest litigations. Ultimately, while this prudential check empowers filmmakers, real-world compliance remains uncertain unless states sincerely mobilize law enforcement machinery, according to Razvi. 'Even with legal affirmation and a valid CBFC certificate, filmmakers and theatres may still hesitate–because threats, protests, or unofficial pressure can make screenings risky and commercially unviable. The ruling is a step in the right direction, but without stronger penalties for those who obstruct releases or clearer mechanisms to protect exhibitors, extra-judicial bans can still thrive in practice," said Aishwarya Kaushiq, partner, disputes practice, BTG Advaya. Also Read: Indian films hold ground overseas despite geopolitical tensions The on-ground release can still fall prey to "mob veto", Kaushiq said. 'What truly enables the release of such films is enforcement through effective state machinery. Proactive police protection, unambiguous support from government officials, and swift legal action against those obstructing lawful screenings can make all the difference."
Time of India
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
From ‘Rimjhim Gire Saawan' to ‘Barso Re': The many moods of monsoon in Hindi cinema
With each passing decade, the portrayal of rains, or monsoon, has evolved in Hindi cinema. Rain comes bearing a medley of emotions. Imagine sitting with a cup of tea, a plate full of pakoras, and the beautiful Rim Jhim Gire Saawan playing in the background, as raindrops gently patter against the windowpane. Music composers, lyricists, and filmmakers have long given voice to the emotions stirred by downpour. The imagery of rain has been used to evoke everything from heartbreak and romance to joy, hope, and freedom. 'People fall in love during the rainy days' Music composer Lalit Pandit, who has composed several memorable rain-soaked melodies - Dekho Na (Fanaa), Hum Tum (Hum Tum), and the melodic La La Laaa from Mohabbatein, which features Aishwarya Rai and Shah Rukh Khan celebrating love - believes the rains provide the perfect setting for romantic numbers. 'People fall in love during the rainy days. Usually, people of a certain age step out in the rain, eat at small shops, drink tea, and run together for shade in cosy corners. These are unforgettable moments of life. Dil judd jaata hai aise moments mein,' he says. Lyricist and writer Swanand Kirkire reflects on the emotional and cultural depth rain holds in India, "Monsoon is a season everyone waits for. If the monsoon goes well, the harvest is good. Monsoon is related to fertility, hence romance, hence love,' he says. Swanand Kirkire says, "There are many songs about love in rain, there is sensuousness and longing also... But now, rain has lost its emotional pull. Urban sensibilities see rain as a hurdle. 'Yaar kya shuru ho gaya hai' – people start complaining on day one." But with each passing decade, the portrayal of rains, or monsoon, has evolved in Hindi cinema - from being sensual, romantic and melancholic to cheerful and full of hope. And, in the last five years, rain songs have dried up. Kirkire laments, 'There's nothing now. Urban sensibilities see rain as a hurdle—Yaar kya shuru ho gayi hai—people start complaining on day one.' The last time we saw our hero and heroine romancing the rain was in Sooryavanshi (2021) when Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif recreated the iconic Tip Tip Barsa Paani. Rimjhim Gire Sawan is my favourite rain song, especially the female version by Lataji. The way they step out and enjoy the rain, I love how it has been picturised. It shows the life of the middle class – Lalit Pandit, music composer A love letter to Mumbai: Rimjhim Gire Saawan (1979) Shot in real Mumbai rains, this romantic interlude from RD Barman's repertoire, features Amitabh Bachchan and Moushumi Chatterjee as a young couple taking a stroll around iconic places in Mumbai – Gateway of India, Bandstand, Marine Drive – while it pours. The song's picturisation is like a love letter to Mumbai and a reminder of simpler times when we could enjoy the rain without worrying about flooded streets & stalled traffic. Celebratory, joyful: Koi Ladki Hai (1997) The joyous composition, penned by Anand Bakshi, has a sing-song rhythm to it: Ghode jaisi chaal, haathi jaisi dum, o sawan raja kahan se aaye tum. It is one of those monsoon songs that compel you to step out of your house and do some 'chak dhoom dhoom', like Shah Rukh Khan and Madhuri Dixit. Love, nature and freedom: Barso Re (2007) Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's free-spirited celebration to this AR Rahman composition is unforgettable. The song has her rejoicing in the rain and blossoming nature while she tells the trees, river and mountains to remember her as she gets ready to elope with her lover. Celebration of first love: Barkha Bahar Aayi (1960) One of the earliest monsoon songs in Hindi cinema, it captures a young woman's (Sadhana) first brush with romance as she sings, 'Barkha bahar aayi, ras ki phuhar laayi, akhiyon mein pyaar laayi.' Bimal Roy kept the visualisation simple – Sadhana walking around the porch of her house, with focused shots of trees, puddles, and raindrops. Lata Mangeshkar's vocals and Shailendra's lyrical finesse add sparkle to Salil Chowdhury's evocative composition about first love. 'The brilliance of the song is complemented by the manner in which the wait and the longing have been portrayed,' lyricist Prasoon Joshi writes in the festschrift The Man Who Spoke in Pictures: Bimal Roy. Sensual and stormy: Bheegi Bheegi Raaton Mein, Ajnabee (1974) Zeenat Aman once called the RD Burman composition 'a sensual, sweet number.' With thunder, lightning, and suggestive lyrics by Anand Bakshi, the song rides the line between eroticism and tenderness, as she finds comfort in Rajesh Khanna's arms. Hope: Ghanan Ghanan (2001) After a long drought, rain becomes a symbol of hope, defiance, and resilience for the villagers in Ashutosh Gowariker's Lagaan. For them, rain brings hope and promise of a better tomorrow. 'Jo panchhi gaayenge, naye din aayenge, ujaale muskuraa denge andhero par, prem ki barkha mein bheege bheege tan mann, dharti pe dekhenge paani ka darpan.' The mischief of love: Ek Ladki Bheegi Bhaagi Si (1958) Romance and rain go hand in hand - but whether it turns mischievous or steamy depends on who you cast: Kishore Kumar or Rajesh Khanna. In this classic, Kumar flirts playfully with a rain-drenched Madhubala. Majrooh Sultanpuri's lyrics elevate SD Burman's playful tune: "Ek ladki bheegi bhaagi si, soti raaton mein jaagi si..." Sensual: Tip Tip Barsa Paani (1994) Akshay Kumar and Raveena Tandon's sizzling chemistry in the Mohra song gave melophiles one of Bollywood's most iconic rain songs – and one which was unapologetic of female desire. Raveena's translucent yellow sari in the song is popular to this day.
India Today
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- India Today
Parag Tyagi says she and wife Shefali Jariwala are together forever in touching post
Actor Parag Tyagi continues to share fond memories of his wife, Shefali Jariwala, who died earlier this month. The actor has now shared a clip featuring himself holding his wife's hand in a heartbreaking post on wrote "Together Forever" followed by a heart emoji, in the caption of his post alongside the clip. Another photo in the clip featured their dog. The actor used the song 'Mere Haath Me Tera Haath Ho' from the movie 'Fanaa' in the background of the post. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Parag Tyagi (@paragtyagi)advertisementParag Tyagi and Shefali Jariwala got married in 2014. The latter died on June 27, reportedly due to cardiac arrest. However, an official statement from Mumbai Police ascertaining the reason behind her death is still awaited. Known for her performance in the popular 90s song 'Kaanta Laga', Jariwala was a celebrated face in the television industry. She had also participated in several reality shows, including 'Bigg Boss' and 'Nach Baliye'.She was earlier married to musician Harmeet Sethi of Meet days after her sudden death, a prayer meet was held in Mumbai on Wednesday in memory of Jariwala. Close friends and family members were in was rushed to Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital by Tyagi, after reportedly suffering a cardiac arrest. However, she was declared dead on arrival.- EndsTrending Reel
NDTV
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- NDTV
Parag Tyagi Says Shefali Jariwala Is "Together Forever" With Him In Moving Instagram Post
Actor Parag Tyagi continues to mourn the loss of his wife and the love of his life, Shefali Jariwala, best known to fans for her iconic 2002 music video Kaanta Laga. Shefali Jariwala died on June 27, 2025, after suffering a cardiac arrest at her residence in Mumbai. What's Happening Parag Tyagi -- who tied the knot with Shefali Jariwala in 2014 -- remembered his late wife in his latest post on Instagram. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Parag Tyagi (@paragtyagi) On Wednesday night, Parag Tyagi shared a montage of old pictures with Shefali Jariwala. In the reel, Shefali Jariwala can be seen holding Parag Tyagi's hand. In another photo in the video, the couple's hands are joined by their pet dog Simba. "Together Forever," he captioned the reel along with a heart emoji. Parag Tyagi set his emotional Instagram post to the song Mere Haath Mein Tera Haath Ho from the 2006 film Fanaa. Last week, Parag Tyagi posted a montage of his memories with Shefali Jariwala. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Parag Tyagi (@paragtyagi) He wrote, "PARI I WILL FIND YOU EVERY TIME YOU ARE BORN AND I WILL LOVE YOU IN EVERY LIFETIME. I LOVE YOU ETERNALLY MERI GUNDI MERI CHOKRI." In what was his first post since Shefali Jariwala's sudden death, Parag Tyagi likened his late wife to "fire wrapped in grace". "A woman who lived with intention, nurturing her career, her mind, her body, and her soul with quiet strength and unwavering determination. But beyond all her titles and achievements, Shefali was love in its most selfless form," he wrote. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Parag Tyagi (@paragtyagi) In the same post, Parag Tyagi also made an appeal to fans, followers, and the media to not be "swept away by noise and speculation" around her death. While initial post-mortem reports have been inconclusive, early reports suggested that she died of a cardiac arrest. Later developments indicated that anti-ageing medicines were found at her residence. Her postmortem reports are awaited. "...But Shefali deserves to be remembered by her light - By the way she made people feel. By the joy she sparked. By the lives she lifted," Parag Tyagi wrote. In A Nutshell Parag Tyagi remembered his late wife Shefali Jariwala in an emotional Instagram post, which was a throwback to them holding hands in a series of old pictures.
