Latest news with #TheNamesake
Time of India
18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Freida Pinto to lead series 'Unaccustomed Earth'
Picture Credit: X Actress Freida Pinto is all set to star in the upcoming series ' Unaccustomed Earth ,' an adaptation of the Jhumpa Lahiri short story collection. Pinto will play Parul Chaudhury in the series, which was originally announced in April. As previously reported, Netflix has commissioned eight episodes, reports The official tagline for the show states that it is "an epic, soapy, and culturally vibrant drama about a tight-knit Indian American community navigating love, desire, and belonging." "Rich with nuance, passion, and unforgettable characters, 'Unaccustomed Earth' invites you into the elite and insular Indian-American community of Cambridge. When a star-crossed romance between a devoted wife and her long lost love comes to light, a scandalous affair is born and new battle lines are drawn in this intensely interconnected immigrant community." by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Pinto is known for her breakout role in the Oscar-winning film "Slumdog Millionaire" by Danny Boyle, which marked her debut in cinema. She was later seen in films like "Rise of the Planet of the Apes," "Knight of Cups," "Hillbilly Elegy," and "Mr. Malcolm's List." In television, Pinto is known for her roles in "Guerilla," "Surface," and "The Path." John Wells will co-write the adaptation with Madhuri Shekar . Nisha Ganatra, who had originally optioned the book and developed the series, will also executive produce. Lahiri will executive produce as well, along with Erica Saleh, Erin Jontow of JWP, and Celia Costas. Warner Bros. Television, where Wells is under an overall deal, will produce. This is the latest Lahiri book to be adapted for the screen. Her novel "The Namesake" was made into a film in 2006 starring Kal Penn, Tabu, and late star Irrfan Khan. The Namesake was directed by Mira Nair. It told the story of immigrant Bengali parents Ashima and Ashoke, who try to adjust to life in America, while their son Gogol tries to find his identity and choose between the two worlds.
Time of India
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Where these 10 Indian-origin filmmakers and actors studied before they went global
From Ivy League halls to London drama schools, these stars turned their academic foundations into global storytelling power. Whether it's behind the camera or in front of it, Indian-origin creatives have shaped the global media landscape in remarkable ways. These actors, directors, and producers have broken barriers in Hollywood and beyond. But before the fame, their journeys began in classrooms across India, the US, Canada, and the UK. From Ivy League halls to London drama schools, these stars turned their academic foundations into global storytelling power. Here's a look at 10 such personalities and the educational paths that helped them become global forces in film and television: Mindy Kaling Role: Actor, Writer, Showrunner Famous For: The Office , The Mindy Project , Never Have I Ever Education: Dartmouth College – BA in Playwriting and Theatre One of the most influential South Asian figures in American TV, Mindy Kaling has redefined what representation looks like on screen: both through her characters and the worlds she creates. At Dartmouth, she was deeply involved in student comedy groups and campus publications, laying the groundwork for her signature blend of wit, cultural commentary, and emotional depth. Over the years, Mindy Kaling has established herself as a comedy icon who turned her college satire roots into globally acclaimed storytelling. Mira Nair Role: Director, Producer Famous For: Monsoon Wedding , The Namesake , Queen of Katwe Education: University of Delhi: BA in Sociology Harvard University: Visual and Environmental Studies A master of weaving personal and political narratives, Mira Nair's cinema is rooted in culture, resistance, and empathy, shaped largely by her academic foundation. Nair's sociology training in India gave her a lens into human systems and behavior, while Harvard introduced her to filmmaking as a medium for social critique. Nair is among the first Indian women to break into global cinema with diasporic stories that resonate across continents. Kal Penn (Kalpen Modi) Role: Actor, Writer, Political Advisor Famous For: Harold & Kumar , The Namesake , Designated Survivor Education: University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) – BA in Film and Sociology From comedy to the White House, Kal Penn's career is a case study in cultural crossover and public influence. His double major gave him insight into both media production and the societal systems that shape identity: lessons that infuse his acting and advocacy alike. Kal Penn has successfully bridged Hollywood with public service, challenging stereotypes in both arenas. Hasan Minhaj Role: Comedian, Writer, Political Storyteller Famous For: Patriot Act , The Daily Show , Homecoming King Education: University of California, Davis – BA in Political Science A fearless performer, Hasan Minhaj tackles race, religion, and geopolitics with the honesty of a confessional and the pace of a stand-up special. Minhaj often cites his college years as formative, shaping the critical thinking that fuels his razor-sharp monologues and cultural commentary. Hasan has successfully revolutionized political comedy with a unique South Asian-American perspective. Poorna Jagannathan Role: Actor, Producer Famous For: Never Have I Ever , The Night Of , Delhi Belly Education: University of Maryland – BA in Journalism The Actors Studio at Pace University – MFA in Acting Known for her emotionally nuanced performances, Poorna is also a producer committed to breaking taboos around gender and identity. She studied storytelling from both a journalistic and performative lens — a rare combination that gives her characters striking authenticity. Her bold roles consistently challenge South Asian stereotypes on global screens. Gurinder Chadha Role: Director, Screenwriter, Producer Famous For: Bend It Like Beckham , Bride and Prejudice , Blinded by the Light Education: University of East London – BA in Development Studies A pioneer in British cinema, Chadha's work often explores the clash and harmony between cultures, identities, and generations. Her academic foundation in postcolonial theory and development shaped the themes of empowerment and identity in her storytelling. Her films gave diaspora audiences across the world a cinematic voice. Ravi Patel Role: Actor, Documentary Filmmaker Famous For: Meet the Patels , Wrestlers , The Pursuit of Happiness Education: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – BA in Economics and International Studies With his heart-on-sleeve humor, Ravi Patel brings both laughter and thought to stories about love, culture, and generational change. His global outlook and interest in family dynamics were influenced by his interdisciplinary education, which shows in his award-winning docu-style films. Patel blends real-life storytelling with cultural insight, making his work both deeply personal and universally relatable. Sarita Choudhury Role: Actor Famous For: Mississippi Masala , Homeland , And Just Like That Education: Queen's University, Canada – BA in Economics and Film One of the earliest Indian-origin women to land leading roles in Western cinema, Choudhury is known for her intensity and emotional range. Her dual focus gave her a pragmatic understanding of the film industry alongside an artistic sensibility. Dev Patel Role: Actor, Producer, Filmmaker Famous For: Slumdog Millionaire , Lion , Monkey Man, The Green Knight Education: Whitmore High School, UK Acting debut in Skins (Channel 4) From teenage fame to critical acclaim, Dev Patel's rise has been marked by emotional range, grace, and creative ambition. Though he didn't attend university, Patel's early exposure to performance arts and real-world sets became his informal but powerful training ground. Patel is an Oscar-nominated actor reshaping how Indian-origin stories are told in mainstream Western cinema. Sendhil Ramamurthy Role: Actor Famous For: Heroes , Never Have I Ever , The Flash Education: Tufts University – BA in History (Pre-med track) Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art (London) – Acting Sendhil's career spans action, science fiction, and teen dramas: all performed with conviction and quiet depth. Initially on a path to become a doctor, Ramamurthy pivoted to acting, earning a drama degree that led to a steady career in American television. These 10 Indian-origin creatives didn't just find fame: they built it on strong intellectual and artistic foundations. From Ivy League classrooms to London's drama schools, their education gave them the tools to not only entertain but also reshape how South Asian identities are seen on global screens. Whether it was comedy clubs, political science lectures, or sociology seminars, their time in academia sharpened the voices we now hear on stage and screen. TOI Education is on WhatsApp now. Follow us here . Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
News18
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Subhash Ghai Shares Throwback Photo With Irrfan Khan: 'Was More Happy To...'
Last Updated: Irrfan Khan took his last breath on April 29, 2020 after a brave fight against neuroendocrine tumour. Subhash Ghai took a walk down memory lane as he shared a heartfelt throwback photo with the late actor Irrfan. The photo, which quickly went viral, captures their friendship. He also penned a sweet note for him. Subhash Ghai and Irrfan Khan worked Right Yaa Wrong. Taking to his Instagram handle, Subhash Ghai shared a throwback photo from an award ceremony. He wrote, 'I have always been in more of admirations of good n great actors than just cosmetic stars of any time.-Good actors enhance the story telling-Stars play stars to glitter the film. I was more happy to get compliments from irfaan than award at an award function. So I remember this picture vividly. Take a look here: Known for his remarkable ability to bring depth to every role, Irrfan Khan earned a special place in the hearts of millions. From Maqbool and Slumdog Millionaire to The Namesake, Life in a Metro, The Lunchbox, and Jurassic World, his filmography stands as a testament to his extraordinary talent. Irrfan Khan took his last breath on April 29, 2020, at Mumbai's Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani hospital after a brave fight against neuroendocrine tumour. Reportedly, this type of cancer is hard to diagnose and treat because its symptoms are similar to less serious illnesses. Recently, Subhash Ghai accused modern-day actors-turned-producers of lacking both creative and business acumen while also calling out the industry for neglecting key contributors like writers and composers. Speaking to Komal Nahta on Game Changers, Ghai lamented the industry's shift from collaborative filmmaking to a fractured system driven by inflated budgets and corporate interests. 'When a film can be made for Rs 100 but is instead stretched to Rs 1,000, those extra Rs 900 become an open invitation for financial exploitation. Filmmaking once thrived on passion and efficiency—now, it's all about compartmentalization, with multiple departments working in silos and no one focused on keeping costs in check," he remarked. First Published:
Time of India
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
How 'communist' is Mamdani? Mom Mira Nair's $2m Chelsea loft raises eyebrows; his tax plan targets NYC's wealthy
Democratic socialist, and Trump-labelled 'communist', Zohran Mamdani is drawing fresh attention for his family's property ties, including his mother 's long-held $2 million Chelsea loft where his political journey quietly began. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The New York City mayoral candidate has shaped his political identity around pledges to overhaul the city's housing system, pushing for rent freezes, tax changes, and shifting resources from wealthier, predominantly white neighborhoods to lower-income areas in the outer boroughs. The property in question Award-winning filmmaker Mira Nair, known for acclaimed works like 'Monsoon Wedding, Salaam Bombay, and The Namesake', owned a luxury loft in Manhattan's West Chelsea for over a decade, the New York Post reported. During the years Nair owned the high-end property, her son Mamdani was beginning to build his political career, one that would focus on calls to shift property tax burdens from outer-borough homeowners onto Manhattan's wealthiest neighborhoods. The loft featured 12-foot ceilings, a sleek Schiffini kitchen, and a spa-like en-suite bathroom with a double glass shower. She bought the corner unit at 420 W 25th St in 2008 for $1.375 million. Nair sold the apartment in 2019 for $1.45 million, according to the NY Post. What does Mamdani own now? The 33-year-old now lives in a rent-stabilized one-bedroom apartment in Queens. Comparable units in the area typically rent for around $2,500 per month. In addition to his Queens residence, Mamdani owns a 4-acre plot of land in Uganda, where he was born and lived until he was 7. The Ugandan property, which he purchased in 2012, is valued between $150,000 and $250,000, according to his 2024 financial disclosure filed with the New York Legislative Ethics Commission, according to the NY Post.
New York Post
03-07-2025
- Business
- New York Post
As Mamdani targets NYC's wealthy in tax plan, spotlight turns to mother's $2M Chelsea loft
Mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani has built his political profile on a promise to transform the city's housing landscape — arguing for rent freezes, tax reform and redistribution from 'richer and whiter neighborhoods' to low-income, outer-borough communities. But the Democratic socialist could face scrutiny over the home history of his own family — specifically, his mother, award-winning filmmaker and Columbia University professor Mira Nair. Nair, best known for directing 'Monsoon Wedding' and 'The Namesake,' quietly owned a luxury loft in Manhattan's West Chelsea neighborhood for over a decade, The Post has learned. 7 New York Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani has positioned himself as a staunch advocate for affordable housing and tax reform, calling for higher property taxes on wealthy, 'whiter' neighborhoods to ease the burden on outer-borough homeowners. Stephen Yang She purchased the unit at 420 W. 25th St. for $1.375 million in 2008, records show. The corner loft — with soaring 12-foot ceilings, a Schiffini-designed kitchen and a 'luxurious en-suite bath with a spacious double glass shower,' according to the listing — sold in 2019 for $1.45 million. Today, the unit is valued at approximately $1.9 million, according to Redfin. During the period when Nair owned the apartment, her son was launching his political career — one that would come to include a campaign platform proposing the redistribution of property tax burdens to Manhattan's wealthiest enclaves. 7 His populist messaging contrasts sharply with his family's real estate history. REUTERS 'Shift the tax burden from overtaxed homeowners in the outer boroughs to more expensive homes in richer and whiter neighborhoods,' Mamdani's housing proposal reads. Mamdani, 33, who represents Astoria in the State Assembly, currently lives in a rent-stabilized one-bedroom apartment in Queens, where similar units are estimated to rent for about $2,500 per month. He also owns a 4-acre parcel of land he acquired in 2012 in his native Uganda — where he lived until age 7 — worth an estimated $150,000-$250,000, according to a 2024 New York Legislative Ethics Commission financial disclosure form. A vocal supporter of progressive housing policies, Mamdani has pushed to freeze rents on stabilized units and overhaul the city's notoriously skewed tax system, known for giving lower rates to ritzy brownstones than homes and rentals in lower-income neighborhoods. 7 His mother, acclaimed filmmaker and Columbia professor Mira Nair, owned a luxury Chelsea loft—complete with 12-foot ceilings and a designer kitchen—that she sold for $1.45 million in 2019. 7 The living area. Stribling & Associates Mamdani, who is now serving in the state Assembly, won a Democratic Party primary last month and heads into the November general election as the favorite in the deeply blue city. His campaign did not return a request for comment. 7 The sleek kitchen. Stribling & Associates 7 The bedroom. Stribling & Associates 7 Meanwhile, Mamdani resides in a rent-stabilized unit in Astoria. Mamdani will face incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, who originally took office as a Democrat in 2021 but is now seeking a second term as an independent following federal corruption charges in September 2024 and calls for his resignation. Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa will also be on the ballot.
