Flaky, buttery French pastry Ishaan Khatter’s latest dessert obsession

A clue: It’s messy and you’ll love it!

January 24, 2025: International heartthrob Ishaan Khatter has a confession to make. He likes it messy, and he's not afraid to admit it. The rising star is talking about his latest dessert obsession a flaky, buttery, creamy, and oh-so-messy Croissant Cone Sundae.  A little birdie tells us that Ishaan Khatter had one bite and called it his favourite! Messy hands? Worth it. Multiple sundaes later, he’s still hooked—and honestly, who can blame him?

In a recent candid Q&A session with the brand, Ishaan gave us a sneak peek into his life and his love for Baskin Robbins. His eyes lit up at the mention of the Croissant cone sundaes. “This Beauty” (of a dessert) in his words is so good that he makes no apologies for not willing to share this with anyone.

Even amid his packed shooting schedule, Ishaan finds time to satisfy his cravings with this innovative dessert-the perfect combination of Flaky, buttery French pastry and creamy, premium quality ice cream. The Croissant Cone has become his go-to dessert, proving that even stars can't resist a good comfort treat.

Try the new Baskin Robbin’s Croissant Cone Sundae, you will completely understand Ishaans obsession!

Check out his confession by clicking the below link: Instagram Link

Chandrakant Singh’s BEING ALIVE featuring Rajpal Yadav, Sezal Sharma, Niharika Raizada streams on JioCinema

Team of BEING ALIVE - Rajpal Yadav, Chandrakant Singh, Sezal Sharma, Niharica Raizada

Celebrated Indian filmmaker Chandrakant Singh continues to make significant strides in both commercial and festival cinema. His latest short film, Being Alive, featuring Rajpal Yadav, Sezal Sharma, and Niharika Raizada, was showcased at the Cannes Film Festival in 2024 and is now available for streaming on JioCinema.

 

Singh’s recent trilogy of short films—Scapegoat, Parchaiyaan featuring Tanuj Virwani and Sezal Sharma and Being Alive—has garnered international acclaim, with each project premiering at prestigious film festivals over the past three years. Notably, Parchaiyaan was selected by the Puente Cinematográfico International Film Festival, further cementing Singh’s reputation in the global festival circuit.

In parallel with his festival endeavors, Singh remains active in the commercial film industry. His recent directorial venture, Kya Masti Kya Dhoom, premiered last month on the Waves OTT platform, showcasing his versatility and commitment to diverse storytelling.

Singh completed his filmmaking skills with a nine-month course in scripting and direction at the New York Film Academy in Los Angeles. His career began with assistant directorial roles in the late-1990s, eventually leading to his directorial debut with Rama Rama Kya Hai Dramaaa in 2008. Over the years, Singh has directed a range of films, including Bin Bulaye Baraati (2011), Be Careful (2011), and Main Zaroor Aaunga (2019).

 

Singh’s dedication to both commercial and realistic cinema underscores his passion for the art form. By investing his own resources into projects that explore the depths of human experience, he bridges the gap between mainstream entertainment and thought-provoking storytelling.

 

As he continues to navigate the realms of commercial and festival cinema, Chandrakant Singh remains a dynamic force in the Indian film industry, committed to delivering compelling narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide. Very Soon Chandrakant Singh will start the shooting of his next short film which will screen in Cannes Films Festival.

Chinese Wok Collaborates with Varun Dhawan's Baby John for a Digital Campaign serving Desi Chinese magic

 

In an exciting move to blend the world of food and entertainment, Chinese Wok, one of India’s leading Quick Service Restaurant chains specializing in Desi Chinese cuisine, has partnered with the much-anticipated Bollywood film Baby John, produced by Atlee and starring Bollywood superstar Varun Dhawan, in an exciting move that fuses food with entertainment.

 

The collaboration leverages Varun Dhawan’s star power and the growing buzz around Baby John to create a unique synergy between Chinese Wok’s vibrant and bold Desi Chinese flavours and the magic of cinema. The partnership is designed to engage both movie enthusiasts and food lovers, further strengthening the brand’s presence across the country.

 

"We are excited to team up with Baby John and Varun Dhawan for a campaign that combines the magic of cinema with the vibrant flavours of Chinese Wok. This partnership underscores our dedication to crafting unique experiences that connect deeply with our audience, combining two universal passions—food and entertainment.” said Aayush Madhusudan Agrawal, Founder of Chinese Wok.

 

The campaign amplifies the excitement of Baby John through co-branded high-impact activations across various channels, including metro branding, bus shelters, and in-theatre advertisements. These touchpoints ensure maximum visibility in public spaces and cinema halls, creating a prevalent and immersive brand presence that aligns with the excitement around the film, driving engagement and awareness.

 

Link to Digital Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bm3f7Y4xMSM

Taaro Thayo featuring Hiten Kumar, Kaajal Oza Vaidya is a timeless love story

Gujarati films have come of age, with numerous Gujarati films having diverse and contemporary subjects that relate to today's youth. Taaro Thayo is the latest example. 

"TAARO THAYO" is a heartwarming celebration of love’s timeless magic, featuring Kedar and Mitali, portrayed by Hiten Kumaar and Kaajal Oza Vaidya, alongside Aarav and Antara, played by Sunny Pancholi and Vyoma Nandi. Together, they rediscover their love again with each other through life’s journey, proving that true love means falling for the same heart over and over.

The film is produced by Mumbai based Leela Mohan production house, producers are Vijay Chauhan, Nidhi Chauhan & Sanjay Chauhan. Dharmesh Patel is the director of the film. He is well-known award-winning editor and Director. The film has Hiten Kumar, Kaajal Oza Vaidya, Sunny Pancholi, Vyoma Nandi, Namann Gor, Reeva Rachh, Vistassp Gotla, Sonu Chandrapal, Jhanavi Patel, Feroz Irani, Hitesh Rawal, Jignesh Modi and in special appearance Hitu Kanodia. Taaro Thayo story has been written by well-known author & motivational speaker Kaajal Oza Vaidya. 

Film music by Ripul Sharma & Abhijeet Vaghani the film has six songs, legendry singer Osman Mir is also part of film musical journey. Film music is on Panorama music, the film released by Panorama Studios Nationwide. The film is releasing on 17th January, 2025. 

Production house has released film poster and teaser today. 

Film: Teaser Link: https://youtu.be/l5u0XJyZja8

Vibrant colours, retro boomboxes make Raveena Mehta - Rishi Rich's ‘My Dil Goes’ cross One million views

It is the magic of bold visuals, Y2K aesthetics and NY-Brooklyn inspired street styles and the magic of Raveena Mehta - Rishi Rich that have clicked with the youth. 

International artist Raveena Mehta's latest song, ‘My Dil Goes’, a collaboration with renowned UK producer Rishi Rich, has proven to be a massive hit once again as the song is currently trending on all social media sites, and already crossed 1 million views on YouTube. Loved by millions, the song’s success is evident in its rapidly growing views and widespread admiration.   

Song Link -

https://youtu.be/IPIl9LrV2Yo?si=PNU3wbR-fyj87hCq

The music video perfectly complements the song’s vibrant energy, with a visually striking concept inspired by Y2K aesthetics, Retro boomboxes, NY & Brooklyn-inspired street styles. The bold visuals infused with dynamic choreography bring this masterpiece to life. The vibrant colors and unique style have added another dimension to the song, making it a fan favorite.

Expressing her gratitude for the overwhelming response, Raveena shared, “I’m incredibly grateful for the love and support from my audience, who have embraced this song wholeheartedly. It was an amazing experience working on this track with Rishi, and seeing the love has been truly overwhelming.”

Manchalo Ki Masti Trailer reveals suspense, psychological tension, Akash Kumar Mittal Shines in this Gripping Suspense Thriller

Unexpected twists, mystery, edge of the seat moments unfurled in the trailer of Manchalo Ki Masti that was launched at a star-studded event at Juhu PVR, Mumbai. Featuring Akash Kumar Mittal in the lead role, the film promises a gripping tale of mystery, unexpected twists, and edge-of-the-seat moments. Directed by Dinesh Shahdeo & Produced by Vijay Kumar Agrawal and written by Sandip Swaransh and Shahdeo himself, the movie is presented by Manorama Pictures & Entertainment in association with Vijay & Two Stars Entertainment, with all-India distribution by First Film Studios LLP.

The trailer provides an intriguing glimpse into a narrative that blends suspense, drama, and psychological tension. Akash Kumar Mittal, known for his remarkable performance in Settlement, steps into a challenging role that showcases his versatility as an actor. The supporting cast includes Karuna Singh Kalpna, Sakshi Shreya, who were also present at the grand trailer launch event.

Packed with intense visuals, a haunting background score, and nail-biting scenes, the trailer hints at a story filled with complex characters and unforeseen plot twists. The cinematography and gripping storyline promise to keep audiences captivated throughout.

Actor Akash Kumar Mittal shared his excitement, saying, “We wanted to create a movie that keeps the audience guessing till the very end. The entire team has poured their heart into making this film, and we can’t wait to bring it to cinemas.”

The trailer launch event witnessed an enthusiastic response from fans, media, and industry insiders. With its thrilling premise and powerful performances, Manchalo Ki Masti is set to make a mark as one of the most awaited suspense thrillers of the year.

Watch the trailer here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5lFKRKNL4sA  

The film is scheduled to release on 10th January 2025 in theaters nationwide.

Whether you're acting, walking the ramp or in a red-carpet event, your hair plays an important role in boosting confidence, says Sharvari

"It’s not just for actors and it is true for everyone to note that one's hair is the biggest confidence booster at any event," Bollywood's rising star Sharvari reveals about the transformative power of hair in shaping her on-screen characters. From cutting her hair short for  Vedaa to enduring rigorous styling for red carpet events, her locks have truly been put to the   test.   

Speaking about her experience during shooting for Alpha, an upcoming women-centric spy universe   film alongside Alia Bhatt, she highlighted the significant transformations her hair underwent during her preparation for the  action-packed  role.  

“When you're  an  actor, your hair goes through so much—styling, colouring, and even harsh conditions on set. Taking care of it isn't just about looks; it's about feeling confident,” she shared, at a recent event where she was announced as the first-ever brand ambassador for leading   professional hair brand Godrej Professional.  

The reveal took place at the grand finale of Godrej Professional Spotlight, a platform celebrating hairstylists on a national stage.  “Hair has always been a defining part of my style—whether I am embodying a character on screen or turning heads on the red carpet. When approached to represent Godrej Professional, I was thrilled as it resonates with my personal style,” she explained. 

Sharvari dazzled as the showstopper unveiling 2025’s trending hair colour and styling looks. The stunning showcase was curated by Godrej Professional's dynamic trio: Yianni Tsapatori, Creative   Director   –   Hair;   Shailesh   Moolya,   National   Technical   Head;   and   Najeeb-Ur-Rehman,   Technical   Ambassador.   Godrej   Professional   also   showcased   Dimensions   and Colourplay range of its hair colours.Hair is more than just an accessory for Sharvari—it’s a vital storytelling tool. 

Sharvari also shared her love for brown hair tones, which complement her Indian complexion beautifully, while expressing her excitement about trying something new in the coming year. 

When asked about her hair inspiration, she named global icon Dua Lipa as her muse, admiring her bold and   ever-evolving   styles. She fondly  described   having   her   hairstylist   on   speed   dial   and emphasized the importance of keeping her hair healthy despite constant exposure to styling tools and treatments.

The   actor   recounted   how   hair   continuity   during   shoots   sometimes   required   frequent   re-colouring, adding another layer of complexity to her routine. Despite the challenges, she firmly believes that healthy and versatile hair is integral to her craft as a performer. “Whether  you're portraying a character, walking the ramp, or attending a red-carpet event, your hair plays such an important role in boosting confidence. It’s not just for actors—it’s true for everyone,” she affirmed.

Hungama Artist Aloud to spotlight talented artists

Hungama Artist Aloud, India’s leading platform for promoting and celebrating independent artists, is all set to commemorate 15 years of empowering talent in the music industry. To mark this milestone, Hungama Artist Aloud is partnering on a fresh and exciting weekly gig series, Thursday Live: Acoustic Nights @ Raasta Bombay, starting on 9th January 2024 at the iconic Raasta Bombay, Khar.

This vibrant celebration of independent artists offers music enthusiasts a unique opportunity to enjoy live acoustic performances by talented artists from the Hungama Artist Aloud network. Partnering with Raasta Bombay adds a refreshing chapter to this legacy, creating an intimate space for fans to connect with their favourite artists.

In the first month, every Thursday will showcase a different artist. For the month of January 2025, the artists and dates include:

●       Deedar Kaur- 9th January            

●       Jatin Khurana- 16th January        

●       Ishaan Nigam- 23rd January        

●       Aishwarya Anand- 30th January

These incredible performers will bring their soulful acoustic music to Raasta Bombay, promising an unforgettable evening for all attendees.

Soumini Sridhara Paul, Senior Vice President of Hungama Artist Aloud, shared her thoughts, stating, “As we celebrate 15 years of championing independent music, this initiative symbolizes our unwavering commitment to nurturing and promoting talent in ways that foster direct connections with audiences. Thursday Live: Acoustic Nights is more than just a musical experience– it’s a celebration of creativity, passion, and the magic of live music.”

Joy Singh from Raasta Bombay expressed their excitement, remarking, “We are thrilled to join hands with Hungama Artist Aloud for this innovative new gig series. Thursday Live: Acoustic Nights perfectly aligns with Raasta Bombay’s ethos of celebrating music and the joy it brings to people. We eagerly look forward to welcoming music enthusiasts to this unique weekly experience.”

For 15 remarkable years, Hungama Artist Aloud has played a key role in transforming the independent talent scene in India. The platform has created a thriving ecosystem that bridges the gap between artists and fans, unlocking unique opportunities for talent to shine through live performances, digital activations, and its flagship initiatives such as The Indian Music Awards, World Music Day Festival, Independent Together, and more.

Hungama Artist Aloud is a platform dedicated to independent music and artists, offering a one-stop destination for fans to discover, stream, and experience original content. With a legacy spanning 15 years, Hungama Artist Aloud continues to break new ground by supporting artists, curating unique live experiences, and connecting music lovers with extraordinary talent.

Freddy Daruwala, Rajneesh Duggal at the launch of 5 films by Mukesh J. Bharti's Banner Vivek Films

Aiming to set up new benchmarks in Bollywood film industry, Vivek Films Production house announced the launch of 5 films in a star-studded event. 

 

Producer Manju Bharti of Vivek Films Production House unveiled an ambitious lineup of 5 major films, promising to redefine entertainment across genres. The grand announcement was attended by notable actors Freddy Daruwala, Rajneesh Duggal, Govind Namdev, Pramod Pathak, Mukesh J. Bharti, Anand Kumar, Brijendra Kala, Mahesh Thakur, Arpit Ranka, Pravin Sisodia, and with Laxminarayan Agarwal  , making it a memorable occasion for the industry.

Manju Bharti, along with actor Mukesh J. Bharti, emphasized the banner’s vision to create compelling stories with unique narratives and exceptional artistry. Speaking at the event, Manju Bharti said, “Vivek Films Production house was established in 2012 by Manju bharti and  committed to delivering films that resonate with audiences across the globe. With these five projects, we aim to set new benchmarks in storytelling and entertainment.”

The Five Films Unveiled:

1.Recovery – Directed by MK Shivaaksh, this gripping drama delves into the struggles of redemption and second chances.

2.Papa Ki Pari – A heartwarming tale helmed by Aaryan Saxsena, this film explores the bond between a father and daughter.

3.Violence – Directed by Dudley, this action-packed thriller promises edge-of-the-seat entertainment.

4.Ketan Aur Bina – Bilal Qureshi brings an emotional drama based on true incidents  about love, relationships, and societal norms.

5.My Father – Pramod Pathak directs this emotional family drama that examines complex father-son dynamics.

Actor Mukesh J. Bharti, who has been a consistent driving force behind Vivek Films Production house , shared his excitement: “These films reflect our passion for cinema and our dedication to meaningful storytelling. Each project has a unique flavor that will appeal to diverse audiences.”

The announcement event also showcased the directors’ creative visions, building anticipation for the films. With such a diverse lineup, Vivek Films Production house aims to cater to various tastes, from intense dramas to lighthearted entertainment .

Manju Bharti’s leadership and Mukesh J. Bharti’s unwavering support underscores the studio’s ambition to create timeless cinematic experiences. Production on the films is set to begin soon, with releases scheduled for 2025 and 2026. The event was anchored by Simran Ahuja.

"Raju James Bond" Set to Bring Love and Laughter This Valentine’s Day

The press meet of RAJU JAMES BOND saw the presence of Khaled Siddiqui & Many More.

Karma Bros Productions and acclaimed director Deepak Madhuvanahalli are all set to present their latest cinematic venture, "Raju James Bond," a romantic comedy extravaganza starring Gurunandan of "First Rank Raju" fame. The film is slated for a grand release on February 14, 2025—Valentine’s Day—in both Hindi and Kannada languages, promising to charm audiences across regions.

Announced on the first day of the New Year, this highly anticipated film brings together love, laughter, and action against the scenic backdrop of London. With a blend of captivating storytelling, hilarious sequences, and melodious music, "Raju James Bond" is designed to leave audiences thoroughly entertained.

Deepak Madhuvanahalli, the director, expressed his excitement, saying "‘Raju James Bond’ is a film straight from the heart. It’s a perfect blend of humor and romance, which makes it an ideal Valentine’s Day treat. We’ve put in a lot of effort to ensure that the audience laughs, loves, and takes back memories they’ll cherish forever. From spectacular visuals of London to a gripping narrative, every element of the film has been crafted with passion”

The lead actor, Gurunandan, who has already won hearts with his impeccable comic timing and charming persona, added "Playing Raju has been one of the most exciting roles of my career. The character is relatable yet unique, blending innocence with wit. With Valentine’s Day as the release date, this film celebrates not just love but the joy of laughter, making it a must-watch for couples and families alike”

Featuring a talented ensemble cast including Mrudula, Sadhu Kokila, Achyut Kumar, Chikkanna, Ravi Shankar, and Jai Jagadish, "Raju James Bond" promises to deliver an unforgettable cinematic experience.

This Valentine’s Day, get ready to celebrate love and laughter with "Raju James Bond"

Ananya Panday Reflects on Her Journey and Teases Intriguing Roles in Upcoming Films on In The Ring with Filmfare

One of Hindi Cinema’s widely celebrated new-age actresses, Ananya Panday, who is riding high on an eventful year at the movies, recently appeared on the latest episode of In The Ring with Filmfare, now streaming on Filmfare’s YouTube channel. Hosted by Jitesh Pillai, Editor-in-Chief, Filmfare, this engaging talk show offers fans an exclusive glimpse into the lives and careers of some of the most sought-after talents in the film and OTT industries, all set against the backdrop of a live audience that heightens the immersive experience.

She reacted to being featured on a ‘Fuljhadi’ packet and to the love she's received for her standout performances in Kho Gaye Hum Kahan and CTRL, along with the exceptional series debut in Call Me Bae. 2024 undoubtedly belonged to Ananya Panday and she knows it. As she entered the Ring, Ananya reflected on her journey, opened about prioritizing her mental health, shared insights into her upcoming projects, got candid about ‘Red Flags’ in a relationship, and much more.

Talking about how she deals with trolling and anxiety, she said, "When things go well, the noise around you fades, but it’s on tough days, when even a whisper can echo loudly. I've learned that doubt often creeps in when you’re already vulnerable, but pushing through those moments—showing up despite the fear—is where real growth happens. You can't control what people say, but you can control how you rise above it."

Recalling how working on Gehraiyaan transformed her as an actress, Ananya shared, "Gehraiyaan was a transformative journey for me. Working alongside someone like Deepika Padukone, whom I deeply admire, was an opportunity for me to learn and grow. Besides that, Shakun Batra made me realise that directors can’t always hold your hand—you have to build your character, do your homework, and take ownership of your craft. That experience pushed me to step up, take ownership of my work, and believe in the power of learning from those you look up to."

Sharing her opinion on ‘Red Flags’ in a relationship, she highlighted, "Pay attention to how someone treats you when others are watching—that shift in behaviour speaks volumes. True support isn’t selective, and if someone can’t celebrate your victories or stand by you consistently, it’s a clear sign they’re not fully in your corner."

When asked about her dating preferences between an actor and someone outside the industry, Ananya added, “Being with another actor has its advantages—they understand the ups and downs, the constant travel, and the pressures of the job. But sometimes, being with someone outside of the industry is a breath of fresh air. They don’t know you for your fame or your work, just for who you truly are, and that can feel like a pure, fulfilling connection."

She also teased her upcoming projects, revealing, "I'm excited about the variety of roles ahead. I’m stepping into unchartered territories—like playing a lawyer in a period drama, something I’ve never done before. After doing so many OTT films and portraying Gen Z characters, it feels refreshing to break away from that mould. I’m also diving into a hardcore romantic film, which is a completely different experience for me. It’s all about growth, challenging myself, and embracing different genres to see where they take me.”

Mintage World’s “Endangered Parrots of the World on Stamps, Coins & Banknotes” pays tribute to the “National Birds Day of India“ on 5th January 2025

Endangered parrots of India

A a unified appeal to raise awareness & safeguard the World's Most Captivating Birds

January,2025: “Mintage World”, the world’s first online museum dedicated to vintage and modern coins, stamps, and currency notes recently launched a unique Coffee Table book titled “Endangered Parrots of the World on Stamps, Coins and Banknotes.” This exclusive compilation celebrates the vibrant beauty of parrots while shedding light on the critical conservation challenges these beloved birds face. National Birds Day of India is celebrated every year on 5^th of January to raise awareness about the importance of birds and their habitats. This day also emphasizes the ecological importance of birds and the need to conserve them. This Collection is a homage to all those lovely birds who play a very crucial role in preserving our nature

This collectible is a rare and meticulously curated compilation of legal coins, stamps, and banknotes issued by various countries, all featuring threatened and endangered parrot species from around the globe. Drawing from the latest data from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (July 2024), the book not only showcases the legacy and diversity of parrots but also highlights the urgent need for their conservation.

A Visual and Informative Journey Through Parrot Conservation

The book offers a rich visual experience, featuring over 459 stamps, 37 coins, and 12 banknotes from around the world, each representing a different parrot species. Among the featured species are the rare Imperial Amazon from Dominica, the African Grey Parrot, the Cockatoo from the Philippines, and Lear’s Macaw from Brazil. Each stamp, coin, and banknote is accompanied by detailed historical and geographical context, making this collection both an artistic masterpiece and a valuable resource for bird enthusiasts and collectors.

Raising Awareness Through Education

“Endangered Parrots of the World” goes beyond being a mere collectible. It is a powerful tool for raising awareness about the serious threats parrots face, including illegal pet trade, deforestation, climate change, and habitat loss. By categorizing the species into five major groups—Extinct (EX), Critically Endangered (CR), Endangered (EN), Vulnerable (VU), and Nearly Threatened (NT)—the book provides readers with a clear understanding of the various levels of risk these birds face.

A Tribute to Avian Heritage

The stamps, coins, and banknotes featured in the book are more than just collectibles; they are a  testament to the global effort to preserve our avian heritage. Crafted in silver, nickel, gold, copper, and bronze, the coins showcase intricate designs that reflect the diverse habitats and unique characteristics of different parrot species. The stamps, with their vibrant colours and exquisite details,capture the essence of these birds, while the banknotes highlight the importance of biodiversity and the global commitment to conservation.

A Message from the Visionary Behind the Book 

Sushilkumar Agrawal, the visionary CEO of Mintage World and a life member of the Bombay

Natural History Society shares his thoughts on the project: “In India, parrots hold a special place in our cultural and historical narratives, from ancient texts and paintings to popular epics and folktales. As a lifelong lover of wildlife, my journey into the world of endangered parrots is fuelled by a deep commitment to understanding & protecting these exceptional birds. I have sought to explore and document the often-overlooked stories of these susceptible parrot species worldwide, uncovering the devastating realities of their illegal trading along the way. This book is not just a collection but a heartfelt mission to raise awareness, combining my passion for nature with the storytelling potential of Mintage World. With this book, we aim to pay tribute to these cherished creatures and raise awareness about their challenges. This collectible has been in the making for a long time, ensuring that every detail is accurate and authentic.”

The book, priced at an affordable ₹999, is available on Amazon, Flipkart, and other e-commerce platforms, as well as in bookstores. It can also be purchased directly from the Mintage World website: www.mintageworld.com.