Latest news with #Kanan
India.com
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- India.com
Who was India's first female superstar? Was forced to work as a maid in relatives' house, lived in extreme poverty, married twice, her name is...
Whenever there is talk of superstars in Indian cinema, the names of male actors are taken. But, among them, there was a woman who earned the title of the first superstar in Bengali cinema and was known as the 'Melody Queen'. This is the story of Kanan Devi, the great actress, singer, and filmmaker of Indian cinema. Her amazing talent, sweet voice, emotional acting, and courageous personality made her immortal in the hearts of the audience. Kanan Devi not only earned a name in acting and singing but also created a new path for women in filmmaking by establishing institutions like 'Shrimati Pictures' and 'Sabyasachi Collective'. The story of Kanan Devi, who was awarded the Padma Shri and Dada Saheb Phalke Award, is an example of courage, art, and dedication. Who was India's first female superstar? Born on 22 April 1916 in Howrah, West Bengal, Kanan struggled with poverty and achieved fame in the cinema world on the basis of her talent. Her childhood was spent in extreme poverty. However, after the death of her father, she and her mother had to face difficulties. It is said that she worked as a maid in her relatives' house. When Kanan was 10 years old, she got a chance to work in silent films with the help of a friend. Her first film was Joydev (1926), in which she got only five rupees, and from here her film journey started. Which films did Kanan Devi work in? Kanan started with silent films and made a mark with her acting in talking films. In her film career, she did films like 'Jorbarat' (1931), 'Maa' (1934), and 'Manomayi Girls School' (1935), which brought her fame. The turning point in her life came when she joined Kolkata's 'New Theatres'. This further increased her fame. Her acting and singing in films like 'Mukti' (1937) and 'Vidyapati' (1937) made her a superstar. Her performance in films like 'Saathi' (1938), 'Sapera' (1939), 'Lagan' (1941), and 'Jawab' (1942) was highly appreciated. Her popularity was so much that she needed security to protect her from the crowd. How did Kanan Devi establish a production unit? Kanan Devi did not limit herself to just acting and singing. She started her own production company called 'Shrimati Pictures' and later formed 'Sabyasachi Collective', which made films based on Bengali literature. She became India's first female filmmaker, which was a revolutionary step at that time. In those times, it was a big deal for women to step into filmmaking, but Kanan Devi tried to strengthen the position of women in society through her work. How many different industries did Kanan Devi work? In her three decade long film career, she did not only Bengali but also Hindi films. Kanan Devi moved to Mumbai (Bombay) in 1948 and her Hindi film 'Chandrashekhar' was released the same year. Kanan Devi was awarded the 'Padma Shri' in 1968 and the 'Dadasaheb Phalke' award in 1976 for her contribution to Indian cinema. Kanan Devi's married life Kanan Devi achieved immense success in the glamorous world of cinema, but her married life had many ups and downs. She married twice. Her first marriage was in 1940 to Ashok Maitra, the son of the Brahmo Samaj's famous educationist, Haramba Chandra Maitra. However, in those days, it was unacceptable in society for an actress to work in films, which is why this marriage was strongly opposed. When the great poet Rabindranath Tagore gave gifts and blessings to Kanan and Ashok, the Brahmo Samaj also strongly condemned him. This marriage broke up in 1945, which deeply saddened Kanan. After this, she married Harendranath Chakraborty for the second time, with whom she had a son. Kanan Devi, who tasted success in a three-decade-long film career, died on July 17, 1992 in Kolkata.
Time of India
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Psychotherapist decodes Priyanka Chopra's body language: 'More animated in Hollywood, calmer in Bollywood'
Priyanka Chopra Jonas's transformation from Bollywood superstar to global Hollywood icon isn't just visible in her career choices—it reflects in her body language too. Can geography truly reshape how we present ourselves? According to renowned psychotherapist Kanan Tandi, it absolutely can. In a recent episode of Raj Shamani's podcast, Kanan delved into how an individual's body movements can reveal shifts in personality—and spotlighted Priyanka as a prime example of how environment impacts expression. 'More animated in Hollywood, calmer in Bollywood' Speaking about Priyanka Chopra 's evolution, Kanan explained that her body language has naturally shifted over the years depending on where she is. 'She looks a lot more animated when she's around her Hollywood peers,' Kanan observed. 'In contrast, she appears calm and more grounded when working in Bollywood, which has been her home base for years.' This contrast, according to Kanan, isn't a sign of inconsistency but rather a reflection of adaptability—an essential part of growth, especially for global personalities. Travel and relationships influence accent and expression Kanan also addressed a widely discussed topic: Priyanka's change in accent. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Compra de Banco Guayaquil CFD con sólo $250 y empieza a ganar un segundo sueldo Mercados de Capital Undo She suggested that constant travel between India and the U.S. could be the cause. 'Her changed accent is not intentional—it's subconscious. Regional exposure affects how we speak,' she explained, citing linguistic studies that confirm accents are shaped by geography. Kanan added that living with her American husband, singer Nick Jonas , has likely played a role in reshaping Priyanka's overall body language. Priyanka Chopra's Quick Trip Turns Into A Heartwarming Home Hangout! 'People's person' with invincible confidence Despite these changes, Kanan lauded Priyanka Chopra for maintaining strong, grounded confidence across borders. 'She's a people's person. She listens before she responds, which shows thoughtfulness,' she said. 'Priyanka isn't afraid to laugh at herself or call herself out. That makes her invincibly confident.' Kanan referenced an older interview clip where Priyanka seemed nervous and reluctant to even look into the camera. Comparing it to her present-day confidence, Kanan said, 'She's come a long way.'
Pink Villa
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Priyanka Chopra's body language changed after moving to Hollywood? Listen to what THIS famous Psychotherapist has to say
Is it possible to decrypt an individual's personality based on their body movements? Do geographic locations have any impact on how we present ourselves? According to famous psychotherapist Kanan Tandi, a changed environment has a significant influence on our entire persona, and more often than not, it occurs naturally. In a recent podcast episode with Raj Shamani, titled 'Decode Love, Lies & Leadership Through Body Language,' she delved deep into Priyanka Chopra's body language over the years and what we can perceive from it. Let's take a brief look at what she has to say! Kanan Tandi Decodes the Reason Behind Priyanka Chopra's Changed Body Language over the Years When the host reviewed Priyanka Chopra 's subtle yet noteworthy difference in body language in Bollywood and Hollywood, Kanan defended her. She emphasized that it is not necessarily a bad thing. According to Kanan, our desi girl looks a lot more 'animated,' when she is around her Hollywood peers. In comparison, she is 'calm' when she is working in Bollywood, a place she has called home for years. Commenting further on the subject, Kanan said that her constant traveling between the two countries could be the reason behind her sudden change in accent. Her theory is supported by linguists who argue that 'accents are significantly influenced by regional differences'. Even a small geographical distance causes accents or dialects to change drastically. Kanan feels that Priyanka appears more confident as she is more relaxed and at home when interacting with press in India. Drawing an example from a past interview where she was even scared to look at the camera, she emphasized that Priyanka has come a long way. She lauded Peecee by calling her a 'people's person,' who listens carefully to what the other person has to say before answering. Priyanka is also not afraid to criticize herself and isn't scared to own the jokes people make about her, a quality that makes her invincibly confident. Kanan feels that living with an American husband also played a part in transforming Priyanka's body language. Along with Chopra, Kanan presented her careful observation of several other high-profile celebrities, including Virat Kohli, Shah Rukh Khan, Narendra Modi, the Obamas, etc. She also gave viewers precious lifestyle and relationship advice. The episode has since garnered attention from curious fans across the nation.
Hindustan Times
09-06-2025
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Manipur: 25 MLAs meet Governor amid fresh violence
A multi-party delegation of over 25 legislators met Manipur governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla along with Rajya Sabha MP Leishemba Sanajaoba on Sunday to seek his intervention into the rising unrest in Imphal Valley after the arrests of five members of the Meitei group, Arambai Tenggol. The governor separately held a review meeting with security officials to take stock of the situation as protests were reported from various parts of the state since Saturday afternoon, with some instances of violence and arson. 'Today, a group of MLAs called on the Governor of Manipur, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, at Raj Bhavan during which the MLAs apprised the Governor of the current law and order situation and requested his intervention to help find an amicable solution,' a statement from the Raj Bhavan said. The Governor assured the delegation, which included MLAs from both the BJP and the Congress, that 'all necessary steps are being taken to address the concerns and to restore normalcy'. Protests were held across Manipur on Saturday night over the arrests of leaders of the Meitei organisation, during which an irate mob stormed the Kwakeithel police outpost in Imphal West. In response, security forces fired several rounds to disperse the crowds. On Sunday, BJP legislator K Ibomcha said that of the five people, one was apprehended by the Central Bureau of Investigation. CBI, which is investigating the cases of violence, confirmed the arrest of a member of the Meitei outfit Arambai Tenggol, while the police did not disclose details of the four others. Following the latest round of protests, the administration imposed prohibitory orders and suspended internet services in five districts of the Imphal valley. Ibomcha, the Lamlai constituency legislator, said, 'During the meeting [with the governor], we were informed that five people were arrested, and of them, one Kanan Singh, was arrested by the CBI in connection with a case. We appreciate the roles the Arambai Tenggol have taken during the recent flood. Kanan is not arrested by the Manipur Police but by the CBI in connection with one of the cases.' The BJP MLA added that the state authorities did not have details of the case in which Kanan was arrested. 'The four others were arrested by the state police for allegedly being associated with Kanan. They did not have any CBI-related cases. They will be screened if they were involved in any other illegal activities,' he said. The Congress, meanwhile, sought the arrests of former home minister and senior police officials in connection with the violence cases. 'Kanan was arrested in connection with a case being investigated by CBI and was not picked up for being a member of Arambai Tenggol. We urged the authorities concerned to release the five without any conditions. On the contrary, we requested them to arrest the then home minister, then DGP and other authorities of the then government,' Congress legislator Th Lokeshwar told mediapersons after meeting the governor. Congress MLA Okram Surjakumar, who was also part of the delegation, expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation. 'The arrest of five Arambai Tenggol members has thrown the state into chaos curfews have been imposed, internet services are suspended, and blockades have emerged at multiple locations,' he said. Surjakumar also stressed the need for transparency. 'If the government plans to arrest someone, there must be a public clarification. We must remain united and focus on restoring peace in the state,' he said. The Raj Bhawan statement also gave details of the security meeting. 'During the meeting, a comprehensive discussion and review of various matters relating to the current law and order situation in the state were deliberated,' the statement said. The meeting was attended by the state's security adviser, Director General of Police, Commissioner (Home), Secretary to the Governor, Additional DGP (Law and Order), IGAR (South), Inspector General of CRPF, and other senior officials. Meanwhile, protests over the arrests continued even as the administration imposed prohibitory orders and suspended internet services in five Imphal valley districts. Protesters burnt tyres on roads at Uripok and Koirengei in Imphal West district and Khurai in Imphal East, defying the prohibitory orders, officials said. At Koirengei, demonstrators dug up the road and made heaps of soil on the thoroughfares to prevent the movement of security forces. Similar agitations were also staged in Jiribam district, neighbouring Assam. Amid the violence, the Congress targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his 'insensitivity' to the suffering of the people of the state. In a post in X, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said, 'The pain, distress, and agony of the people of Manipur continues unabated… The insensitivity of the Frequent Flyer PM to the suffering of the people of Manipur is truly shocking and defies understanding.' The Congress leader also said, 'President's Rule, however, has made no difference. The Governor himself has been forced to travel from Imphal airport to his residence by helicopter.' There was no immediate response from the BJP. More than 260 people have been killed and thousands rendered homeless in the ethnic violence between Meiteis and Kuki-Zo groups since May 2023. The Centre had on February 13 imposed the President's rule in Manipur after Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigned. The state assembly, which has a tenure till 2027, has been put under suspended animation.
Hindustan Times
08-06-2025
- Hindustan Times
Manipur tense after Meitei member's arrest; Local group declares 10-day shutdown
IMPHAL: Tensions escalated across the valley districts of Manipur following the arrest of Asem Kanan, a member of the Meitei group Arambai Tenggol, by the Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Guwahati, on Sunday. In a press release, CBI said: 'Kanan was arrested on Sunday at Imphal airport for his involvement in various criminal activities linked to the 2023 Manipur violence. His family has been informed of the arrest.' The statement also mentioned that CBI is investigating cases related to the Manipur violence as per the directive of the Supreme Court of India. 'Due to the prevailing law-and-order situation, the trial of these cases has been shifted from Manipur to Guwahati,' it said. CBI further confirmed that Kanan has been transported to Guwahati and will be produced before a competent court for police remand. According to police officials familiar with the matter, Kanan was arrested along with four other Arambai Tenggol members on Saturday from Imphal. However, the CBI's official statement confirmed only the arrest of Kanan. Meanwhile, violent protests erupted in Imphal city. Hundreds of demonstrators blocked major roads using burning tyres, wooden planks, and other debris. Security forces fired tear gas shells, mock bombs, and live rounds to disperse the crowds. Amid the chaos, a 13-year-old boy sustained serious injuries to his leg, reportedly from a tear gas shell explosion. He was evacuated to a nearby hospital. From Saturday evening to 5.30 pm Sunday, at least 11 people were reported injured in connection with the unrest, with the situation continuing to deteriorate in the evening. Security forces have been deployed at key locations across Imphal, including Palace Compound in Imphal East, and Keishampat Bridge, Moirangkhom, and Tiddim Road stretching up to Imphal airport in Imphal West. Arambai Tenggol on Saturday announced a 10-day statewide shutdown demanding the unconditional release of the arrested volunteers. Additionally, a women's group from Khurai in Imphal East issued a stern warning, demanding that 'all MLAs currently outside the state return to Imphal and form a new popular government by 6 pm on June 10.' The group declared that any MLA who fails to return by the deadline will not be allowed to re-enter the state. As of 5.30 pm Sunday, the situation remained highly volatile in the valley districts, with security on high alert and public anger mounting.
