Neha Kakkar has been on a roll ever since she began her career in Bollywood. Right from Cocktail that came out in 2012, people knew she had it in her to establish her foothold in the industry that's otherwise driven by unpredictability. It has been eight years and she only continues to climb higher.

It's only because of the sheer hard work that she seems to have created a history of sorts recently. Do you she has become the second-most viewed female artist on YouTube, leaving Selena Gomez and Becky G way behind? The singer took to her Instagram account to announce and share this great news with all her fans.

Have a look right here:

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

Can't be more thankful!!!! ♥️🙌🏼🥺 Jai Mata Di 🙏🏼 Aapki Nehu 🥰 #NehaKakkar . @youtube @youtubeindia

A post shared by Neha Kakkar (@nehakakkar) onMay 6, 2020 at 8:40pm PDT

One of the other strong reasons for her massive popularity is her stint as the Indian Idol judge, another very well-known and massively successful singing reality show. She also knows how to keep her fans and followers entertained with her unique Instagram posts. Let's see what's next in store for this singer!

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

In the light of the COVID 19 Pandemic, the 2020 Hot Docs Festival in Toronto, which is the world's largest documentary film festival was in jeopardy but the Film Festival, has decided to uphold & celebrate the spirit of movie making & film-makers, by showcasing a multi-platform 'festival-at-home' experience to its audience that kick-starts on May 28.

The only Indian film premiering at this prestigious international festival is Sona Mohapatra's documentary, Shut Up Sona. Directed by Deepti Gupta, the feature length film resonates with every woman's search for equal space in a culture ridden with millennia of misogyny. This is a film about music, art, social change, and a clashing of the ancient and the modern & this political story is told via the journey of Sona Mohapatra & her relentless fight for a voice. Her unapologetic personality has been rendered beautifully in the 85-minute film that takes the audience through the alleys of Vrindavan to the doorstep of a Dargah, rooting it in the diverse culture of the country, & questioning the patriarchy even prevalent in the Uber cool alleyways of Bollywood.

The film that premiered at MAMI in 2019 & won a critics guild award there, has gone on to make a big impact at the Rotterdam Festival, Goteborg Festival, even winning a special mention at Impact Docs Award. Speaking about it, Sona says, "With the world locked down & in anxious times, music, storytelling, cinema & art play an even more important role in helping us get back on our feet as a society."

She adds, "I am grateful that SHUT UP SONA will find an entirely new audience in another part of the world through the Hot Docs Festival. I couldn't have imagined that our film would be selected in these top festivals of the world when we were making it. That it is a universal story that is finding resonance across the globe validates my journey as an artist who has never felt restricted to being just a singer. I carry my country, it's art, it's present & its history within me. In telling my story, I hope to connect the disparate dots within my culture to build a narrative that portrays a more nuanced view of the hopes & aspirations of India."

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

From Mahesh Babu to Allu Arjun, from Ram Charan to Vijay Deverakonda and Nani, several sourthern superstars offered condolences to the families affected by the unfortunate gas leak at LG Polymers in RR Venkatapuram village of Visakhapatnam on Thursday morning.

At least 10 casualties have been reported at the time of publishing, while hundreds were rushed for treatment to hospitals after complaining of breathing difficulties and burning sensation in the eyes. Reacting to the shocking news, Mahesh Babu tweeted: "Heartwrenching to hear the news of #VizagGasLeak, more so during these challenging times... Heartfelt condolences and strength to the bereaved families in this hour of need. Wishing a speedy recovery to those affected. My prayers for you... Stay safe VIZAG."

Heartwrenching to hear the news of #VizagGasLeak, more so during these challenging times... Heartfelt condolences and strength to the bereaved families in this hour of need. Wishing a speedy recovery to those affected. My prayers for you... Stay safe VIZAG.

— Mahesh Babu (@urstrulyMahesh) May 7, 2020

Allu Arjun too prayed for the safety and well being of the victims. "It's really heart breaking to see Vizag, which one of the most special places in my life, in such a state. I am deeply saddened by this horrific accident. Condolences to families who have lost their lives and hoping for a speedy recovery for the rest," he wrote.

It’s really heart breaking to see Vizag which one of the most special places in my life in such a state. I am deeply saddened by this horrific accident. Condolences to families who have lost their lives and hoping for a speedy recovery for the rest .

— Allu Arjun (@alluarjun) May 7, 2020

Filmmaker SS Rajamouli, who is known for helming the "Bahubali" franchise, is extremely disturbed by the visuals from the Vizag Gas Leak.

"Praying for the recovery of those admitted to the hospital. Heartfelt condolences to those who lost their near and dear ones," Rajmouli added.

Deeply disturbed by the visuals from the #VizagGasLeak. Praying for the recovery of those admitted to the hospital. Heartfelt condolences to those who lost their near and dear ones.

— rajamouli ss (@ssrajamouli) May 7, 2020

Actor Ram Charan is also heartbroken. "Heart breaking to see the visuals of #VizagGasLeak. My heartfelt condolences to the families of the people who are no more. I hope all necessary measures are taken to make sure the affected people recover at the earliest. My thoughts and prayers with the people of Vizag," he grieved.

Heart breaking to see the visuals of #VizagGasLeak. My heartfelt condolences to the families of the people who are no more. I hope all necessary measures are taken to make sure the affected people recover at the earliest. My thoughts and prayers with the people of Vizag. 🙏🏼🙏🏼

— Ram Charan (@AlwaysRamCharan) May 7, 2020

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Even as he stays put at his Panvel farmhouse, Salman Khan is doing his bit to help the daily-wage workers and vertically challenged artistes in the industry. Now, the actor has kickstarted a food donation drive in Mumbai where two food trucks labelled Being Haangryy make the rounds of the western suburbs and distribute essentials among the underprivileged.

A source reveals, "The food trucks were an initiative of Salman's not-for-profit organisation Being Human and initially kept on the set of Radhe to provide free meals to the crew. Since the suspension of shoots in mid-March, the trucks have been lying unused. When it struck Salman that they can be used for a greater cause, he promptly contacted Yuva Sena leader Rahul N Kanal to implement the idea."

Over the past two weeks, they have extended help across slums in Andheri, Bandra and Santacruz. The source adds, "They try to reach 1,000 families every day. Every kit contains three kilos each of rice and wheat flour, two kilos of dal, one litre oil, spices and salt. All safety norms are followed while distributing the rations."

A volunteer distributes food kits to the underprivileged

Kanal, who is coordinating the endeavour, says, "Salman bhai is sponsoring the drive. We are doing our bit by deputing volunteers so that we can reach out to as many families as possible."

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Saif Ali Khan may be a big name in the film industry today, but as a newcomer, he too had to experience rejection and struggle to get where he is today. Today, he is one of the most bankable stars in Bollywood, but when he first started out, he was kicked out of what could have been his first film! Don't believe us? Here's what Khan has to say!

In an interview with Mumbai Mirror, Saif recalled how he was thrown out of a film, Bekhudi, and how it was quite difficult to find his footing in the industry as a newbie who was just out of boarding school. He shared, "I have a vague memory of my first day on a film set. I was shooting a song for Bekhudi, with Rahul Rawail (director) and Kajol (co-star). I had to tear through fake cobwebs and emerge, singing a line that went, 'Chaahat Ki Raahon Mein, Kyun Itna Darti Hai'. I might just about pull it off today, but, back then, straight out of a boarding school in England, I was petrified."

Saying that he must have performed badly, Saif added, "Soon after, Rahul Rawail threw me out of the film, complaining I wasn't showing enough interest. That shot, I have to admit, was particularly appalling."

While Saif lost Bekhudi to Kamal Sadanah, he landed another project, a film titled Parampara. Speaking about technicalities in a film and how he is much better at the smaller details now than he was back then, Saif said, "I was pretty bad in Parampara, too, and my voice didn't help. Fortunately, there were several big names in the film, so either I must have stood out like a sore thumb or simply gone unnoticed. I still don't know which."

Well, it's hard to believe that Saif, the star that he is today, was quite the anxious newcomer back then! On the work front, the Laal Kaptaan actor was last seen in the comedy Jawaani Jaaneman, co-starring Alaya F and Tabu. The film did good business at the box office.

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Actress Esha Gupta will be making her digital debut with the role of a police officer in REJCTX2, and she says it is unlike any other character that she has ever portrayed. "The REJCTX2 poster is finally out and all the actors look really glamorous and fierce like they mean business. I am doing my digital debut with REJCTX2 as a cop, Officer Rene who is glamourous, yet strong, but has a secret which will be revealed later in the show," Esha said.

"Though I have played the character of a police officer before, this one is going to be completely different. From a while now, I've been planning to join the amazing world of digital, and REJCTX2 just felt right for it. I hope my fans catch up with Season 1 and are as thrilled as I am for Season 2, which will premiere on May 14," she added.

Esha will be playing the role of a Singaporean police officer. The second season of the series, directed and produced by Goldie Behl, promises to be high on action and drama. The show will also feature Masi Wali, Anisha Victor, Saadhika Syal, Ayush Khurana, Ridhi Khakhar, Prabhneet Singh, Pooja Shetty and Tanvi Shinde besides Esha and Sumeet Vyas. It will stream on ZEE5.

Bengali actress Paoli Dam, who is waiting for the new season of the bilingual web series Kaali 2, says that the show is a homage to womanhood and she enjoyed doing all the action sequences in the show.

The trailer of the show has been released, and Paoli said, "There is a place for everyone's truth in this world, and 'Kaali 2' will show people the strength and perseverance needed to fight for their truth. The show is a homage to womanhood and is a celebration of power and femininity through the eyes of Kaali. It is a power-packed action thriller and I was quite pumped about the action sequences."

Paoli plays a mother who is admired for her strength, tenacity and perseverance, and will go against all odds for her son.

The first season of the show was shot in Bengali. The second season is created and directed by Rohan Ghose and Aritra Sen with an ensemble cast including Rahul Banerjee, Chandan Roy Sanyal, Abhishek Banerjee, and Vidya Malvade among others.

"We shot both in Hindi and Bengali, which was a great experience for my co-stars as well as me," she said. Kaali 2 is set to release on May 29 on the OTT platform ZEE5.

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

It is not just Bollywood celebrities, but many people who are extremely concerned and panicking for the grooming woes. It was Mira Rajput, Shahid Kapoor's wife who was worried about her eyebrows. In fact, she also posted a funny picture of her face, which highlighted the on-fleek brows.

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

So far the eyebrows are behaving 🤨

A post shared by Mira Rajput Kapoor (@mira.kapoor) onApr 4, 2020 at 10:44am PDT

With going to the salon for a quick fix no longer an option, now Kriti Kharbanda's biggest dilemma is how to shape her brows. "Baaki sab toh theek hai, par in eyebrows ka kya karein?" she wrote on Insta and referred to the bushy look as 'COVID brows'. Earlier, Sonam K Ahuja, too, had expressed concerns about her brows being a 'complete mess'. If you don't want to DIY, let big, thick brows be the latest must-have.

Well, it seems like grooming is a grave issue than anything else right now.

On the professional front, Kriti Kharbanda was last seen in Pagalpanti, and now, the actress is all set to woo the audience with her next film releases Vaan and Taish. Speaking about her personal life, Kriti is currently dating Pulkit Samrat, her Pagalpanti co-star.

On the other hand, Sonam Kapoor was last seen in The Zoya Factor, opposite Dulquer Salmaan. Before that, the actress was a part of LGBTQIA film, Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga, also starring Anil Kapoor, Regina Cassandra and Rajkummar Rao.

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Several showrunners are speeding up the post-production work to release their digital offerings during the lockdown. Though the idea of having all eyes glued to his show sounds tempting, director Ali Abbas Zafar is in no hurry to reach the finish line. The director — whose political drama, tentatively titled Dilli, is currently in post-production — says he would rather revel in the satisfaction of a series made well than join the rat race.

"On Twitter and Instagram, people have been asking us to release the show now. So, there has been pressure, but we don't want to rush the process. Our series was supposed to drop in the last quarter of 2020, and we will stick to that deadline. If the show was ready, we would have released it now because it is an ideal time to grab eyeballs," says Zafar, happy that the Saif Ali Khan-starrer has piqued the audience's interest.

When it comes to developing an offering for the global audience, the post-production is a long-drawn process. "Once you deliver your project, it has to be dubbed in nine languages. So, the post-production takes three to four months, longer than the shoot itself."

Ali Abbas Zafar

As his team gives the finishing touches to the project, Zafar, nestled in his hometown Dehradun, has begun writing the sophomore season. "[The top brass of] Amazon Prime have seen the rushes, and basis that, they have decided to sanction the second edition," he says, beaming with pride.

Point out to him that the drama has found its way into the second instalment, but has yet to find an apt title, and he laughs at the irony of the situation. While the working title was Tandav, the makers rechristened it Dilli, only to have a change of heart later. "We are struggling with the name. That's why Amazon has not been able to make an official announcement."

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

April 29, 2020, is going to be one of the darkest days for all Irrfan Khan fans and Hindi cinema. His untimely demise has shaken one and all, especially the people from the fraternity who worked with him and knew him as a person and not just an actor. The actor was undergoing treatment for Neuroendocrine cancer and was admitted at Mumbai's Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital due to a colon infection. The actor's last rites were performed on the same day in the presence of his family, close relatives and friends. Irrfan is survived by his wife Sutapa and sons, Babil and Ayaan.

Soon after news of Irrfan's death broke on the internet, social media was flooded with messages from fans and celebrities expressing their grief. Filmmaker Anees Bazmee mourned his death by sharing a throwback picture with Irrfan from the sets of their film ‘Thank You’. The picture shows Anees explaining a scene to Irrfan. Sharing the picture, he wrote, "I still can't believe he is no more with us, my heart sinks thinking about it. We have lost one of this generation's greatest actor. To work with @irrfank was a magical and special privilege. #FlashbackFriday (sic)".

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

I still can't believe he is no more with us, my heart sinks thinking about it. We have lost one of this generation's greatest actor. To work with Irrfan was a magical and special privilege. #FlashbackFriday

A post shared by Anees Bazmee (@aneesbazmee) onMay 7, 2020 at 10:00pm PDT

On April 28, the Piku actor was admitted to Mumbai's Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani hospital with a colon infection and was in the Intensive Care Unit. In 2018, Irrfan was diagnosed with neuroendocrine tumour and was undergoing treatment for the same.

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

On Thursday, Rakul Preet Singh was spotted at Pali Naka, Bandra. She made sure to wear a mask while stepping out to head to a chemist in the vicinity. A video of the De De Pyaar De (2019) actor's outing has gone viral.

Some netizens thought she was Deepika Padukone and still others felt she had gone to buy alcohol. Responding to the speculation, she tweeted, "Oh wow! I wasn't aware that medical stores are selling alcohol."

Oh wow ! I wasn’t aware that medical stores were selling alcohol 🤔😂😂 https://t.co/3PLYDvtKr0

— Rakul Singh (@Rakulpreet) May 7, 2020

Singh informs that she had picked up some stuff from the chemist and the video shows her exiting. She wondered why people chose to speculate. Blame it on the University of WhatsApp, perhaps.

Rakul Preet recently spoke about her Miss India days and how she wasn't entirely comfortable wearing a bikini for the pageant. Her parents, however, were more comfortable with the idea than her! She shared, "My mom and my dad were more comfortable than I was with the idea of wearing a bikini. In fact, when we were going to shop for the bikinis, my dad kept telling us to buy vibrant coloured bikinis and not the dull ones."

Well, now that's a cool set of parents right there!

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

She has belted out hit after hit lately, including "Dilbar", "Garmi", "Sunny Sunny", "Aankh maarey" and "Badri ki dulhania". Neha Kakkar, who is one of most successful singers in the industry, says she had never thought she would reach where she has today.

"It feels great. I always tell people that I am still living in a dream. How can this happen? A small town girl from Rishikesh went to Delhi and then Bombay. It (the journey) has been good. Never thought about where I have reached today," Neha told IANS.

Neha, who was born in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, doesn't want to stop here. "It feels amazing and I think even now I have to make it even bigger in life," added Neha, who rose to prominence with the song "Second hand jawani" in the 2012 film "Cocktail".

Long before cracking Bollywood, Neha in her childhood days used to sing bhajans at religious events. "I started singing at the age four and till 16 I was only doing bhajan sandhyas," the singer, who has been crowned as the remix queen in the industry, told IANS.

From religious songs to party numbers, how did the shift happen? "If you see my Jagran footage, I used to sort of party there, too. I would dance and sing bhajan's as a little kid and people used to… paagal ho jaate the (go crazy). I have been partying since then," said Neha, whose siblings Sonu and Tony Kakkar are in the industry, too.

On the work front, Neha recently featured in a song with rapper Yo Yo Honey Singh titled "Moscow suka". The number is a mix of Punjabi and Russian languages. The track currently has garnered a whopping 26,304,948 views since its release in April.

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

The song Genda Phool, featuring Badshah and Jacqueline Fernandez, may have gone through its ups and downs but there's one actress that's clearly enjoying dancing on it. We are talking about the Bengali beauty Monalisa, who shot to fame with her career in Television. She is known for acting in the serial Nazar, both season 1 and 2.

The aforementioned song is set against the backdrop of the Bengali culture and since she too is a Bengali, couldn't stop herself from grooving on its pulsating beats. Taking to her Instagram account, she shared a video and danced with both oomph and elan. Also featuring in the video was her hubby and actor Vikrant Singh.

Have a look right here:

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

“GENDA PHOOL” ❤ï¸ÂðŸ¥°.... Finally 🤷‍♀ï¸Â#myfavourite #song #gendaphool #bongconnection #lovingit #quarantinelife #havingfun #dance #stayhome #staysafe @vikrant8235

A post shared by MONALISA (@aslimonalisa) onApr 10, 2020 at 2:29am PDT

The song has fetched a staggering response on YouTube and now has even attracted the attention of Monalisa. Let's see who happens to be the next one to dance on this infectious song!

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Ishita Dutta's love for painting is not known to many. Now that shooting has been cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic, and she is indoors, she is engaging in painting.

"I am painting, sketching, watching TV and cooking a bit. It's such a bliss to be able to find time to do things that I love as we are always working. We never really get much time for ourselves or with each other," she said.

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

So I tried making ice cream with what I had at home and it turned out pretty good.... step 1 Beat fresh cream (If u don’t have enough add little milk or almond milk n beat till it becomes thick n foamy) Step 2 Add flavour whatever u have (I added crushed Oreo, Nutella) Step 3 Freeze for 15 min take out beat again and then freeze again Repeat step 3 3-4 times Step 5 Add nuts, chocolate pieces whatever u can add for texture and mix but with spoon softly and then freeze. Do not use a beater for this step. Step 6 Keep the ice cream out for 5-10 min before serving so it’s soft n easy to serve. Enjoy 😊 Note: If you don’t have a blender like I used try with an egg beater or take a bowl and a fork freeze it and then use it to beat the cold cream.

A post shared by Ishita Dutta Sheth (@ishidutta) onApr 2, 2020 at 6:02am PDT

"In these difficult times, we all need to stand together by distancing ourselves from each other. We have to stay home and practice self-isolation and social distancing. People are treating this as a holiday, going out and meeting others. We have to refrain from all these activities and take this more seriously," she added.

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

❤️❤️❤️ Note: Pic ref google. 😊

A post shared by Ishita Dutta Sheth (@ishidutta) onApr 3, 2020 at 6:29am PDT

Her Instagram page is full of her photos and videos in which she can be seen having a fun time with her husband Vatsal Sheth, doing yoga, painting, cooking and much more. Have a look:

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

Cook, paint, clean, dance, workout, do yoga, watch tv, read a book, spend time with ur family, play with your pets, write something, water ur plants here’s a list of things you can do just don’t go out please.. 🙏🙏🙏 Let’s fight this together by staying away from each other... #socialdistancing #selfisolation #fightagainstcoronavirus✌️

A post shared by Ishita Dutta Sheth (@ishidutta) onMar 22, 2020 at 12:39am PDT

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

Just another day... ❤️

A post shared by Ishita Dutta Sheth (@ishidutta) onMar 26, 2020 at 9:35am PDT

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

Food for my soul 🎨 ( inspired from a painting I saw online... just wanted to give credit to the painter ❤️)

A post shared by Ishita Dutta Sheth (@ishidutta) onMar 31, 2020 at 11:22pm PDT

She was last seen on the small screen in the show "Bepanah Pyaarr", which went off air in February.

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Mika Singh and Chahatt Khanna shocked and surprised a lot of people when they took to their respective social media accounts to announce to the world they are quarantined together. You all must have seen that post where the actress even used the hashtag #Quarantine Love to express her feelings for the singer. But is this the entire story? Is there's something more than what meets the eye? Yes, there is!

In a video chat with Bollywood Spy, she spilled the beans on what the truth actually is. This is actually for their single that's going to come out soon that's been titled, Quarantine Love. She's promoting the same with the singer. She said, "People are eating my head, literally. People are like, 'Do not date him! You broke our heart.' Today only, I was having a laugh with my friends about this."

They are quarantining together only to shoot for the song. " We shot it at home only, we are next-door neighbours. I just hopped into his house. The two of us shot it on the phone," she said. And then came the reveal, " People don't know I am promoting the song. They think we are dating. That's what the whole promotion plan was, to do something that creates a question in everyone's minds."

She also said Mika is a very nice person and doesn't know why people have problems with him. Now let's see what the song has in store for us. Bring it on!

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Shweta Tiwari, one of the most popular faces in the television industry is winning hearts with her portrayal as Guneet Sikka in Sony Entertainment Television's show, Mere Dad Ki Dulhan. She has always been intensely passionate about her work and has left no stone unturned to give it her all to all the roles she has played on screen.

Over the years, Shweta has had a huge fan following who have admired her work. She tries to entertain her fans in whatever she does. As actors are also staying put, she along with her family is whiling her time by reading books and learning new recipes. While she misses shooting for Mere Dad Ki Dulhan, she is enjoying her family time, too. Recently she gave her son Reyansh a haircut since the barbershops are shut, too.
She cut her baby boy Reyansh's hair and shared a few pictures from the recent haircut session on her Instagram account.

Have a look right here:

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

Always be yourself, unless you can be a Barber💇‍♂️ #nanhayatri #stayhome #haircut

A post shared by Shweta Tiwari (@shweta.tiwari) onApr 7, 2020 at 3:25am PDT

Talking about this, Shweta said, "Desperate times need desperate measures. I know that the barbershops will be shut for a while and it's only safe to stay indoors, but not depriving my son of a haircut is the least I can do. I love dressing him up and now that I gave him a haircut, he looks more cute than ever. Sure I miss shooting for Mere Dad Ki Dulhan and playing Guneer Sikka, but I am also enjoying a lot of family time."

Watch Shweta Tiwari as Guneet Sikka in Mere Dad Ki Dulhan, Monday to Friday at 10 PM only on Sony Entertainment Television.

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Actress Smriti Khanna, who is 40-weeks pregnant, has penned an emotional birthday post for her husband, actor Gautam Gupta.

'Happy birthday to my most precious gem, the light of my world and my forever love. If I did anything right in my life it was when I gave my heart to you.

"Of all years this is the one we should celebrate the most. Sure it might not be the kind of birthday you would have wished for, spending it in quarantine, but it is one we will remember. One that we will not take for granted."

She added: "I'm so grateful that your love is mine and our lives are woven together and I feel incredibly blessed to be your wife.

Smriti also shared that she "can't wait to share parenthood" with Gautam now.

Have a look:

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

Happy birthday to my most precious gem, the light of my world and my forever love. If I did anything right in my life it was when I gave my heart to you ❤ï¸Â Of all years this is the one we should celebrate the most. Sure it might not be the kind of birthday you would have wished for, spending it in quarantine, but it is one we will remember. One that we will not take for granted. I’m so grateful that your love is mine and our lives are woven together and I feel incredibly blessed to be your wife. I love doing life with you and can’t wait to share parenthood with you now. ILYSM baby ❤ï¸Â @mistergautam PS Sorry the birthday gift is a bit late but it’ll arrive anytime now 🍼

A post shared by Smriti Khanna (@smriti_khanna) onApr 12, 2020 at 10:39pm PDT

She also regretted not being able to deliver Gautam's birthday gift -- their baby birthday! "PS . Sorry the birthday gift is a bit late but it'll arrive anytime now," Smriti quipped.

The couple got married in 2017. They have worked together in the TV show Meri Aashiqui Tum Se Hi.

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Recently, there was news that model-VJ Anusha Dandekar and actor Karan Kundrra, one of television's hottest couples, had broken up. The report suggested that there was trouble in paradise and the couple had thus parted ways.

Now, however, a recent report in Pinkvilla suggests that while there is trouble, but the couple hasn't broken up. A source close to the development told the website that though 'there might be a little problem in the relationship, things haven't reached the point of a breakup as yet'.

Anusha and Karan have been living together for a long time now, and the pair has never shied away from being seen or clicked together. At the beginning of their relationship, however, Anusha had faced problems from trolls who would send her hate messages just because she was with Karan. 

In an old interview, Anusha had shared, "I am trolled a lot. Since the time I started dating Karan, my life has changed. It has been difficult for me. Every morning I read at least 50 hate comments saying, 'You aren't cultured or aren't good'."

Well, we sure hope Anusha Dandekar and Karan Kundrra find a way to resolve their issues and stick together!

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Actors Smriti Khanna and Gautam Gupta have welcomed their first child, a baby girl. Sharing the news with her followers, Smriti took to Instagram. "Our princess has arrived... 15.04.2020," she wrote. Along with it, she also shared a picture that shows the couple holding the newborn in their arms.

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

Our princess has arrived 💗 15.04.2020

A post shared by Smriti Khanna (@smriti_khanna) onApr 15, 2020 at 9:28am PDT

Reacting to the post, fans and friends showered them with congratulatory wishes.

Actress Dia Mirza commented: "Oh yaaay! so so happy. This is the best news. Can't wait to meet our angel."

Actor Arjun Bijlani wrote: "So happy for you guys. Lots of blessings for our princess. Welcome to the parent gang."

Smriti and Gautam got married in 2017. They have worked together in the TV show "Meri Aashiqui Tum Se Hi".

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Television actor Arjun Bijlani's mornings begin with a call to mother Shakti, the first of many times he dials her number throughout the day. His anxiety is not unfounded — last week, the highrise near Infiniti mall in Malad west, where his mother resides, was sealed by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) after a resident tested positive for COVID-19.

"The lockdown is not easy, especially if you have ageing parents. It's unbelievable that I am not able to meet my mother," says Bijlani, who lives with wife Neha Swami and son Ayaan in Lokhandwala, Andheri.

Arjun Bijlani

Even though he understands that the lockdown is a necessary measure to contain the spread of the virus, the Ishq Mein Marjawan actor notes that it poses difficulty for senior citizens. "I am worried for my mother because she is diabetic. Despite suffering from chronic back pain, she has no option but to do the household chores at the moment. My younger brother Niranjan and I are trying to help her in every way we can. [We are ordering the essentials online], which are then being delivered at the gate of the complex," he says.

Bijlani is trying to maintain an optimistic stance and be her emotional anchor in these trying times. He adds, "When I was talking to her recently, my eyes welled up as I listened to how she is running the house. After my father passed away, I have been her pillar of support. But, I feel helpless at this point as I can't rush to her."

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Recently, there was news that Pavitra Rishta co-stars and real-life couple Rithvik Dhanjani and Asha Negi had parted ways. Negi and Dhanjani were apparently together for over six years. 

Sources close to the development revealed that the couple had broken up. The report further stated that their close friends have known about it for a month now. Apparently, Asha and Rithvik were living together, and now, the latter has moved out of the house.

Recently, Rithvik shared a couple of posts on Instagram about love and has left everyone wondering if they're meant for Asha Negi. Check them out below:

One of Rithvik's posts reads, "To know love is to know how to give unconditionally. There is no greater wisdom than unconditional love." 

Rithvik and Asha met on the sets of their popular TV show Pavitra Rishta. The couple had also participated in season six of Nach Baliye and won it. Speaking about marriage, Asha had previously said in an interview, "We are not thinking of marriage anytime soon. Not after three-four years. We want to be settled professionally first. We only think about our careers only at this point in time."

On the work front, Rithvik was last seen as the host on the dance reality show, Super Dancer: Season 3. Asha Negi, on the other hand, was seen in the web series, Baarish, in 2019. The actress also has a film, Ludo, her film debut, in the pipeline.

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Actor Ronit Bose Roy has come up with an interesting way to make masks at home amid the Coronavirus lockdown.

Taking to social media, Ronit posted a video that shows him making a mask out of an old T-shirt, without the need for stitching.

"No mask, tension nahi lene ka! simple hai," he captioned the video. Have a look right here:

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ronit Bose Roy (@ronitboseroy) onApr 19, 2020 at 10:01pm PDT

The Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi fame artiste even tested the effectiveness of the mask by blowing the fire from a lighter through the mask.

Before this, actress Vidya Balan was seen making a mask at home out of her blouse using two hair bands.

"Masks play an important part in preventing corona. However, the problem is that there is a shortage of masks not only in our country but across the world. But there is an easy solution to this. Just as our Prime Minister has said that we can make masks at home. Take any piece of cloth, it can be a dupatta, scarf, old saree anything. And you will need two bands. Rubber bands will also do," Vidya had said.

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Almost a month into the lockdown, it has become increasingly difficult to keep the wheels of the economy turning, and several companies are resorting to pay cuts to stay afloat. Closer home in Bollywood, Ekta Kapoor, founder, Balaji Telefilms, had announced on April 3 that she was forgoing her annual salary of Rs 2.5 crore so that "my co-workers don't have to take a hit during this period of crisis."

Despite her best intentions, it has been heard that the studio — which has ALT Balaji and Balaji Motion Pictures as subsidiaries — is having to implement a three-month pay cut for its employees.

A source reveals, "On Monday, the staff was apprised of the decision. Those with annual salaries of up to Rs 12 lakh will have to take a 20 per cent pay cut while those in the Rs 12 lakh to Rs 36 lakh bracket are looking at a 25 per cent pay reduction. A 30 per cent pay cut is being implemented for those with annual pay packages between Rs 36 lakh and Rs 60 lakh, and the senior management will take only half their pay. The variable pay that is disbursed at the year-end is likely to be delayed as well."

mid-day reached out to Kapoor, who did not respond till press time.

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

The Bollywood couple of Ishita Dutta and Vatsal Sheth has been uploading content for Instagram followers, aimed at tickling the funny bone, during the ongoing lockdown. In their recent post, the two are seen discussing what to cook. The argument continues in Gujarati style, which is meant to make people laugh.

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

Gujju Ben vs Gujju Bhai 🥊🥊 @vatsalsheth

A post shared by Ishita Dutta Sheth (@ishidutta) onApr 20, 2020 at 8:42am PDT

"We had thought of creating content together but we never got the time earlier. We have been shooting round the clock. Now that we are locked down and at home, we thought why not give it a try and create some stuff," said Ishita.

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

#ThisIsUs ❤️

A post shared by Ishita Dutta Sheth (@ishidutta) onApr 16, 2020 at 7:19am PDT

"We have got great feedback and it's been exhilarating to hear from fans and friends. It's a great time to actually work on content via the phone from home," she added about the videos that have got a thumbs up from celebrities like Suniel Shetty and Kapil Sharma.

The couple has also made a short film together, which will be out soon. Amidst all the fun and laughter, Ishita has urged people to "follow the government's orders and give it paramount importance".

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

It was November 28, 2017, when Vatsal Seth and Ishita Dutta tied the knot and surprised all their fans. Not much was known about their romance and they didn't even indulge in any sort of social media PDA to at least leave us guessing a possible union in the future. But this is what Tinsel Town is all about, replete with shocks and surprises.

But do you know there was a time when Dutta felt she would never get married to Seth? She even has an explanation for that. In an interview with Bollywood Life, she spilled the beans on what made her say so and how the married life has been like. She said, "When I first saw Vatsal, I remember we were doing a mock shoot, however, he was already doing the show. And I saw him standing in the front, he appeared to be very serious, not too talkative. Generally, on-screen images are quite different, they are kinda full of life. So, I was really surprised to see quiet Vatsal in a serious zone."

She added, "According to my friends and co-stars on the sets, whenever Vatsal comes to meet me, I generally have a big glow on my face. That's what people say." When asked about the craziest thing she has ever done, her answer was, "Saying yes to him for marriage is the craziest thing I've done. I thought we would never get married." They both were seen together in the show, Rishton Ka Saudagar- Baazigar.

Vatsal made his Bollywood debut in 2004 with Taarzan: The Wonder Car and went on to do films like Heroes, Paying Guests, and Malang. Ishita was seen with Ajay Devgn in Drishyam in 2015 and with Kapil Sharma in 2017 in Firangi.

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Compared to the pre-COVID period, television viewership in India increased by 40 per cent as more and more people stay at home due to the restrictions, said a report on Thursday. In the week starting April 11, individuals watching TV for all seven days increased to 48 per cent, according to the latest report by TV viewership monitoring agency BARC (Broadcast Audience Research Council) and data measurement firm Nielsen.

For the study, the pre-COVID-19 period referred to January 13-February 2. The highest growth in TV viewership was recorded in some of the biggest metros like Delhi and Mumbai, according to the report.

The results showed that viewership growth in the 15-21 age group is driven largely by the urban market. he 15-21 age group contribute to 16 per cent of the total TV viewership in India, said the report.

Compared to the pre-COVID period, average time spent on TV in Mumbai grew by one hour and 42 minutes. In Delhi, the time spent rose by around an hour and 26 minutes. In Mumbai and Delhi, where COVID-19 cases are among the highest in the country, news consumption on TV grew by 251 per cent and 177 per cent respectively.

Growth in movie viewership is coming largely from pay platforms across urban and rural markets - 82 per cent and 69 per cent respectively. News stays strong in the Hindi speaking market with over 200 per cent growth in week 15 over the pre-COVID period, said the report.

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

Kamna Pathak, who plays Rajesh in the sitcom Happu Ki Ultan Paltan—a spin-off of Bhabhiji Ghar Par Hain—is brushing up on her singing. She practices every morning with her guru, Pankaj Dixit, who belongs to the Gwalior gharana, through video calling. "While shooting, I wouldn't get time for riyaaz. I  enjoy singing ghazals and reciting poetry. I am utilising the lockdown to pursue my passion," she says.

Ode to dad

Rajeev Khandelwal sought inspiration from father, CL Khandelwal, to play an Army captain in the teleplay, Court Martial. His dad is a retired colonel. "I've seen my father and brother proudly don their uniforms. I also had aspirations to join the Army. My role is an ode to my father," says Khandelwal. We have often seen actors sourcing inspiration for their characters from other actors or other movie characters, this is possibly the first time that he has been inspired by his own father.

For the uninitiated, the Aamir actor recently played an Army Officer in the Zee5 movie, Ateet, which is now streaming online.  

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Babita Ji from Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah is one of the most loved and famous characters on Indian television. The show has been running for the last 11 years and the actor even posted a picture of herself, proudly announcing the completion of 2900 episodes. This is truly historic! Spider-Man's uncle said with great power comes great responsibility. And Munmun Dutta, the actor who plays Babita Ji, has acted responsibly in every sense of the term.

The thing is that over the past few weeks, some fake TikTok accounts of the actress have been doing the rounds on the Internet and this has truly worried her. And taking to her Instagram account, she shared a screenshot of the same and also wrote a message on her Instagram story- "If I ever decide to come on TikTok, I will let you all know here first." (sic)

Have a look at the screenshot of the fake accounts first:

And here comes the message:

Well, hope all those people who were following her on these fake pages now unfollow her immediately. Follow her on Instagram for her gorgeous pictures and keep watching her iconic show and her superlative performance.

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

It is indeed a rough time and a tough time for all the Bollywood and Television celebrities that have been stranded in different parts of the world due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Right from Mouni Roy to Sanjay Dutt to Mithun Chakraborty to Irrfan Khan, some lost their parents, and some of their members are all by themselves. And now, Sanjivani 2 actress Chandni Bhagwanani has also been stranded in Australia amid the lockdown.

Talking to SpotboyE, the actress revealed some details about her stay in the country and how she has been coping up. She said, "I am all alone here. Initially, I was staying in a hotel for a month but when this lockdown got extended, I rented an apartment in Melbourne here with two other Indians." She further revealed, "I came down to Australia for a month for some professional work. And by the time I could come back, everything was shut due to corona and now, I am stuck here."

Talking about how she has been managing her finances, she said, "It's quite difficult. Everything is expensive here- stay, food, travel. But whatever savings I have, I am putting it here right now. Since my accommodation is on a sharing basis, it's quite comfortable for me than living in a hotel, studio apartment, or in a flat by myself. That must have been more difficult. Thankfully, I have these two girls around me and have people whom I can talk to in this crucial phase."

We hope she can come back home sooner and safer!

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Ties that bind

Last seen in Nisha Aur Uske Cousins, Amit Sarin relocated to Los Angeles in 2018 with wife Vineesha and children, Vaeda and Aveer. The actor-producer informs, "People in LA have taken social isolation seriously. Everybody is staying at home. Only stores selling essentials are open with reduced timings." Sarin, who also featured in Pavitra Rishta, adds, "Such adversaries remind you of being close to loved ones. But thanks to technology, I am connected with my folks and pals."

Time to reconnect

Vikas Sethi

While in self-isolation, Sasural Simar Ka actor Vikas Sethi is also introspecting. It's been a while since the audience saw him on screen. He says, "Gone are the days when you were considered too old to play a lead. Now, there is room for actors belonging to different age groups to play parts. I would like to get meaty roles and have no qualms about asking for work." Sethi is hoping to do just that when things improve.

Rajeev Siddhartha scores a hat-trick

Rajeev Siddhartha and Rinku Rajguru in Hundred

Rajeev Siddhartha who we best remember for his diverse roles as Romil in ALT Balaji's web series show Romil & Jugal, Veer Diwan in Netflix's Upstarts and Bala in 24 among many others, is currently basking in the glory of his three eye-ball grabbing web shows that have released recently. Rajeev was last seen in Voot's Marzi and the super acclaimed Amazon Prime series Four More Shots Please and his recent third release which is Hotstar's Hundred starring Lara Dutta and Rinku Rajguru. In the series Hundred, Rajeev plays the role of a shady racketeer under the garb of running a legitimate business. He is very work driven until Rinku’s character comes into his life and changes it completely.

Talking about working on Hundred, Rajeev said, "It was a great change working with three directors namely Ruchi, Ashutosh and Taher. Each had their unique approach to direction and different styles but the best part was their vision was singular - that helped a lot in shaping the performance. It helps when there is clarity and it shows in the final cut." In the series, Rajeev who mostly shares screen space with Rinku Rajguru said, "Rinku was a delight to work with. It’s always fun to act alongside someone who is a thorough professional and someone who is so well prepared."

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Auditions of MTV Roadies Revolution will be held live on social media for the first time ever, in the wake of the COVID-19 lockdown. This is the 17th season of the popular adventure reality show. "Since its inception, 'Roadies' has had a lot of firsts to its credit. Going virtual is another innovative dimension to its iconic journey and speaks volumes of its repute as a reality show. At a time when social distancing has become the norm of life and we have found respite in our phones, 'Roadies LIVE' auditions is a great effort and a well-timed step to reach the youth. This is also a first for me in 17 seasons and I am looking forward to a power-packed experience. To all the young, high-spirited souls, here's your last chance to make the cut and be a part of this exhilarating journey," show host Rannvijay Singha said.

Starting from Monday (April 27) on the MTV Roadies Facebook page, the first-ever virtual audition will go on up to Friday, and will give one contestant a chance to join the official journey this year.

Neha Dhupia, one of the judges on the show, is excited. "Social media and the euphoria around it is undeniable, more so during this lockdown when we are glued to our phones more than ever. We're excited to bring 'Roadies' to digital platforms that connect the masses. Digital auditions are the best way to tap into the young psyche amidst lockdown and get them prepped up for something challenging. Keeping up with our theme of 'Revolution', I am excited to meet some spirited people during the LIVE auditions who have it in them to take positive action and join us on the journey ahead," she said.

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

Dare to watch @princenarula & @nikhilchinapa test the wild skills of the entries? Watch it LIVE today at 5 PM on @mtvroadies Facebook page! Also, keep sending in your entries on @voot telling us why you deserve to be on the #RoadiesRevolution journey. Click the link in bio. @oppomobileindia @castrolbiking @axiom_ayurveda @manforceindia #RoadiesLiveAudition

A post shared by MTV Roadies (@mtvroadies) onApr 27, 2020 at 1:28am PDT

Added her co-judge Nikhil Chinappa: "Every year, Roadies ups the ante with innovative formats that resonate with the sentiments of the youth. Virtual auditions are a leap ahead in that direction to leverage a platform that is extremely relevant in the present scenario and reach out to a wider demography. 'Roadies' auditions have always called for mass attention and It would be interesting to witness the traction online."

Rapper Raftaar, also a judge on the show, feels "digital has emerged as the new normal" amid the ongoing crisis and lockdown.

"For a show which defines youth, their goals, and preferences, this digital effort can engage the youth and amplify 'Roadies Revolution' in a way never seen before. I am glad to be a part of this one-of-a-kind experience," he said.

Prince Narula, who also judges the reality show, feels "The live auditions are yet another feat in creating a revolution and reaching out to our young audience".

"I'm really excited to meet some brilliant people and look forward to their perspective. This is going to be a great precursor to our adventurous journey later in the year," Prince added.

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

Who says love in the time of quarantine is tough enough for two? Bigg Boss and Roadies winner Ashutosh Kaushik tied the knot with his fiance Arpita on April 26 in Noida during the lockdown. While reports suggest that the couple had already decided marriage way before the lockdown, they didn't want to delay it, clearly. The marriage took place on the terrace, in the presence of the couple's family members.

Interestingly, while the bride and the groom did not really follow the basic lockdown rule - wear a mask - their pandit seemed to be wiser as he was seen wearing a mask while chanting the mantras.

Check out the video of Ashutosh Kaushik's wedding ceremony here:

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ashutosh Kaushik (@ashutoshkaushik_bigg_boss_2) onApr 27, 2020 at 9:49pm PDT

According to reports, Ashutosh donated the money collected during his wedding to the PM-CARES coronavirus fund.

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

Heartiest Congratulations to my Dear Bro #ashutoshkaushik Kaushik For Embarking on a new Journey of life .Wishing u all the best for a Happy married life .. God Bless u #bigboss #roadiesextreme #roadiesextreme #covidwedding #socialdistancing

A post shared by Sangeet Maker's Team (@master_meck_sangeet_makers) onApr 27, 2020 at 8:54am PDT

Ashutosh was the winner of the fifth season of Roadies in 2007 and the second season of Bigg Boss in 2008. He was also seen in films such as Zila Ghaziabad and Kismat Love Paisa Dilli.

A few weeks ago, TV actress Puja Banerjee got married to Kunal Verma. In a post on Instagram, Puja announced, "Today was supposed to be our wedding but the situation is such that we have cancelled all our ceremonies although we had registered our marriage before a month so we are officially married and together forever now. With the blessing of our parents and grandparents, we starting our new life need all of ur best wishes. Our family is happy and so are we."

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Archana Puran Singh has always believed in laughing out loud and living life to the fullest. We all have seen that in Comedy Circus and The Kapil Sharma Show, and the same amount of mirth and liveliness is to be found in her Instagram posts. But in the latest one, it's her hubby Parmeet Sethi who steals the show.

We all get to see Singh capturing Sethi and her mother and Sethi, who seems to be in a jovial mood, begins taking a dig at her and their 30-year old marriage. He calls her a 'defective maal' and also adds 'Iska koi refund nahin hai.' To make matters worse for her and funnier for us, her mother too joins Sethi to pull her leg.

Have a look at the first video right here where we can see all three of them:

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

. Both saasu ma and jawai ji have some fun... at my expense! 😁 Mom has declared me to be the "video waala" ! 🤦‍♀ï¸ÂðŸ˜‚ #lockdown2020 #quarantinelife #madhislandlife

A post shared by Archana Puran Singh (@archanapuransingh) onMay 2, 2020 at 6:47am PDT

And in the second video, the actress gives us a glimpse of their Sunday conversations. She says- "Sunday. No workout. Fresh mint flavoured nimbu paani. Nature. Mom. Parmeet. Bhagyashri. Entertainment. Nok jhok. Happy." (sic)

Have a look right here:

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

Sunday. No workout. Fresh mint flavoured nimbu paani. Nature. Mom. Parmeet. Bhagyashri. Entertainment. Nok jhonk. Happy. @iamparmeetsethi #madhislandlife #quarantinelife #lockdown2020 #bhagyashrirocks

A post shared by Archana Puran Singh (@archanapuransingh) onMay 3, 2020 at 7:38am PDT

Hope just like us, you also had a laugh!

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Telly actor Saumya Tandon is part of a campaign to distribute reusable masks and face shields to frontline workers on the streets. The Bhabhiji Ghar Par Hai actor was spotted in Andheri distributing the kits to vegetable vendors and police personnel.

Main bhi artist

Aishwarya Sakhuja, who has taken up sketching during the lockdown, is enjoying the process. "I never thought I would be good at it, but I've surprised myself. I still have a long way to go but my friends have been loving my sketches," she adds.

Mamma mia

Jag Jaanani Maa Vaishno Devi actor Madirakshi Mundle is bonding with her mother during the lockdown. She has special plans for Mother's Day. "I plan to cook her favourite meal and refurbish an old saree to a suit with embroidery work on it."

The web game

Mere Sai actor Tushar Dalvi is set to make his digital debut on Netflix with Anurag Kashyap's Choked. He says, "Working with Anurag Kashyap is a dream come true. His films don't underplay issues."

Slambook: Parull Chaudhry

One superpower you wish to possess?
The power of illusions.

One thing you won't share?
My mom's laddoos.

Your guilty pleasure movie?
Dumb and Dumber (1994).

One thing you are guilty of?
Of unknowingly hurting my parents.

Your worst project?
Being part of an episode of supernatural show in which I played a 300-year-old witch. Wearing prosthetics was painful.

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

TV stars Smriti Khanna and Gautam Gupta have named their newborn daughter Anayka. On Tuesday, Smriti took to Instagram and shared the "first family picture", also revealing her baby's name. "Anayka...#family#FirstFamilyPic#DaddysGirl," she wrote on Instagram. Smriti and her husband Gautam welcomed their first child on April 15. The couple met on the sets of the TV show "Meri Aashiqui Tum Se Hi".

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

Anayka ❤ï¸ÂðŸ§¿ #family #FirstFamilyPic #DaddysGirl

A post shared by Smriti Khanna (@smriti_khanna) onMay 5, 2020 at 5:26am PDT

A few days ago, Smriti posted her before and after childbirth pictures on social media, leaving everyone stunned with the loss of her pregnancy weight so quickly. "Amazed at what the human body can do!! 1st pic was taken one week before I gave birth. Second pic, a week after I gave birth. My inbox is flooded with questions from new moms and moms-to-be. I'll try and make a video soon answering all of them. Thank you for so much love and blessings for our little one #postpartum#postpartumtransformation#newmom #mombod," she had shared.

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

For all those who have seen the reality show Khatron Ke Khiladi 10, they all might know who Tejasswi Prakash is. She has one of the most interesting Instagram accounts as she keeps sharing some fantastic pictures on her account and she knows how to flirt with the camera and ooze oomph in all her pictures. Check them out if you haven't!

And now, in a recent interview with SpotBoyE, she talked about her photoshoots, her cheeks, and how they have been a boon but also a bane. Yes! Speaking about them, she said, "I look very young because of my cheeks. But they have troubled me a lot too. Because when we shoot for daily soaps the maximum shots are close ones as they focus on expressions more. So whenever they zoom in too much anyway camera adds in about 10 pounds of weight it adds lot."

She added, "Even if I am thin, due to my face it looks very chubby and you won't believe there are times when people came to me and said that eat less because you're looking fat on the screen. And I'm like how can I be thinner than this?"

She was also asked about her process of taking care of her skin and her body, to which she said, "I don't do much for my skin like other celebrities, who follow a skin routine. Somehow when I am at home now and not stepping out at all, there is actually a good change in my skin. It's feeling healthy. I think right diet and drinking lot of water helps."

If you have been following her Instagram account, don't you feel she actually has perfect skin and a perfect body?

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Amitabh Bachchan has started shooting for the upcoming season of the popular quiz show "Kaun Banega Crorepati" (KBC) amid the COVID-19 lockdown, and from his latest blog post it seems like the actor is apprehensive about being judged for breaking social distancing rules. He seems defensive in the post, insisting that the shoot was done with essential precautionary measures.

"So yes I worked .. got a problem with that .. keep it to yourself then .. damned if you pour it out here in this locked in condition .. sufficient precaution as much that could be taken was taken .. and what had been scheduled for 2 days , was completed in one day .. starting 6pm .. ending a short while NOW … !!" wrote Amitabh Bachchan in his blog.

Viewers are wondering how the quiz show would be shot this year owing to the current restrictions including social distancing and the lockdown. Talking about the same, Big B mentioned in his blog: "Personal gratifications to the many that ask .. and then the KBC pile of several.. in all about 10 to 12 videos and then hours of audio recordings .. also for the same , KBC .. and the speculation as to how they shall conduct it .. there have been no definite answers for that .. but the authority hopes well and long .. so .."

The 77-year-old actor has also been suffering from a Hamstring pain. "Just back from work .. hamstring be damned .. social messaging videos .. acknowledging the 'angels' videos .. giving commendation to them that work so we exist .. and the invitations to the new season of KBC .. The show goes on ..heavy in heart , to all," Big B tweeted early on Wednesday.

Like everyone else, he is also concerned about the after-effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. "Of one there is little doubt .. the debate on the outcome of this pandemic .. hesitation .. apprehension .. fear or recurrence .. strain of the conducting of the time of release .. and so much more .."

"How long then shall it hold the barrel .. what shall be the outcome when the barrel is held .. what alternatives shall prevail and what in God's name shall the future hold for us all. The World is all ‘shook up' .. as Elvis would say .. and would never be the same in the respects of community and reaction," he wrote.

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Everyone seems to be cooking during the coronavirus lockdown. Hidden chefs seem to be awakened in almost all celebrities, and they've been giving us some major cooking goals. Recently, a video featuring TV's favourite couple, Vivek Dahiya and Divyanka Tripathi, has gone viral.

In the video, we can see that Vivek Dahiya has cooked some delicious-looking pasta, and it doesn't just look yummy, but it is yummy! And who better than wifey Divyanka to rate her husband's cooking skills? Take a look at the video below:

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

@divyankatripathidahiya @vivekdahiya #divyanka #divyankafan #divyankadahiya #divyankatripathi #divyankatripathifans #divyankatripatidahiya #happybirthdt #divek #divekfanclub_ #vivek #vivekfanclub #vivekdahiya #vivekdahiyafanclub #divyankavivek

A post shared by Divyanka Tripathi Dahiya (@bans_life_div_viv) onMay 6, 2020 at 7:52pm PDT

Vivek Dahiya, pretending to be Italian, is funny, while Divyanka Tripathi is entertaining with her amusing expressions!

The couple has been on a cooking spree ever since the lockdown started. From Paneer Tikka to Kashmiri Pulao, Vivek and Divyanka have been whipping up a storm in their kitchen. 

Vivek and Divyanka first met on the sets of Yeh Hai Mohabbatein and after several months of dating, the two got married in 2016. Speaking about working with Divyanka again, Vivek told IANS, "I know our fans are waiting for long to see Divyanka and me together on the screen... I also want to work with her again... It's just that I am waiting for some right project to come our way. If the project is right and the script looks interesting, we would definitely give a heads-up."

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Once the lockdown that was imposed worldwide owning to the Coronavirus pandemic ends, a lot of people would change the way they look at life and themselves. People who are stuck alone and have no company would become a lot more responsible and those who were always dependent on others may stop taking things for granted. The one actress who has been taking care of herself all through this lockdown is Ratan Raajputh.

The Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo actress is stuck in a village in Bihar due to the lockdown and has been sharing her lockdown story on Instagram almost every day. You should watch all the videos to know how she has been surviving. From cooking food to dealing with electricity problems to even cleansing the cows, she has been doing it all.

In her latest Instagram video, she showed us how she was cooking watered rice. It's a long video but we recommend you watch it from start to finish. What if you also end up learning how to cook them!

Have a look right here:

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

God morning!😀 . पंता भात (Leftover watered Rice) . . P.S.- Aur haan! ..🍋 nimboo(lemon) Mil gaya 😀 . . #pantabhaat #newdish #foodlovers #lockdown3 #lockdown2020 #stayhome #jaibharat #रामभरोसे✨😇

A post shared by Ratan Raajputh (@ratanraajputh) onMay 6, 2020 at 6:43pm PDT

In another video, she could be seen cooking Chana Masala but asked us to google for the recipe. Well, don't miss this video either:

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

नाकों चने चबाने के बाद अब बारी है खाने की..😜😋 . आज का मेन्यू- ‘चना मसाला (घुगनी) और चावल’ . . P.S.- Recipe के लिए गूगल करें😬 . . #chanamasla #ghugni #foodlovers #eathealthy #desikhana #stayhome #jaibharat #जयभारत #रामभरोसे✨😇

A post shared by Ratan Raajputh (@ratanraajputh) onMay 5, 2020 at 5:46pm PDT

There's a whole collection of such videos, as we stated above, which she has described as her lockdown stories. This is truly respectful that a star like her is living all by herself and making no bones about it.

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Several television celebrities will get together in a virtual music concert to pay a tribute to Rishi Kapoor and Irrfan Khan, who passed away last week. Titled Dard-e-Dil, the concert includes artistes like Bharati Singh, Maniesh Paul, Hina Khan, Arjun Bijlani, Devoleena Bhattacharjee, Sukhwinder Singh and Aditya Narayan among others.

"This tribute is a great chance for us to pay respects to these two legends of Bollywood. Both Rishi Kapoor ji and Irrfan Khan have given so much joy to us fans through their work. The last week was indeed the worst week for Indian Cinema as we lost two legends one after the other. They may have gone from the world but they will live in our hearts forever through the work they have done. I am honoured beyond words that I have been chosen to give them tribute to them through this concert. We will celebrate their unforgettable contribution to Bollywood and pay the tribute," Bharati said.

Irrfan breathed his last on April 29 at the age of 54. He was admitted to Mumbai's Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani hospital with a colon infection. However, unfortunately he succumbed to his ailment. Rishi Kapoor passed away a day later at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital on April 30. He had been battling leukemia for the past two years.

The concert will be aired on Colors channel on Sunday, May 10.

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

The man with outstanding sense of humor and exceptional wit Maniesh Paul always takes his audience by surprise be it on stage or off stage. His comic timing and intelligent banters always lifts up everyone's mood.

Well when it comes to hair styling,our mothers hold a special place as they were out first hairstylists and Maniesh shares a glimpse of his cute childhood days where his mother had given him an adorable hairstyle and we are gushing over the cute picture forever now.

Maniesh recently posted a picture of his childhood where he mentioned about his mother tying ponytails or buns when he had long hair. He took his Instagram and shared his picture where he captioned it saying, "Ek toh meri mummy ko meri pony-tail banana bada acha lagta tha....yahan pe juda (bun)banaya hai!!hahahahaha but what amazing and stress free days those were!!"

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

Ek toh meri mummy ko meri pony-tail banana bada acha lagta tha....yahan pe juda (bun)banaya hai!!hahahahaha but what amazing and stress free days those were!! #mp# childhood #free #mast #happy #memories #days #parents #delhiboy

A post shared by Maniesh Paul (@manieshpaul) onMay 6, 2020 at 11:50am PDT

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

TV actress Devoleena Bhattacharjee, who was also seen in the thirteenth season of Bigg Boss, is currently in self-isolation after her cook has been quarantined. The cook, who is Devoleena's main domestic help, was quarantined after someone in a family he worked for tested positive for COVID-19.

In an interview with Spotboye, Devoleena has emphasised that she is well and her cook is not positive for coronavirus. She shared, "I don't know why it spread like wildfire that he has contracted Coronavirus. The government has put him up in a hotel. He's been looked after very well. Too much has been made out of this. It has made me only more tired."

Talking about how reports of her cook being positive have affected her, the actress said, "I have had to consequently quarantine myself. It's not going to be easy. Damn! This is the 4th time in the last 5 months that I cannot go out of the 4 walls - first Bigg Boss 13, then my back played up and confined me to bed rest, then the lockdown happened - and now just when I was managing to step out a bit for essentials, I have been asked to lock myself up."

Devoleena, however, has no problem cooking for herself, and she reminds us that she did it all the time in the Bigg Boss house.

Recently, the Saath Nibhaana Saathiya actress received death threats on social media after she took a stand against close friend Rashami Desai's ex, Arhaan Khan. Devoleena had taken to her Twitter account to extend her support to Rashami and asked her fans to ignore Arhaan.

Well, we sure hope things get back on track for Devoleena!

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

Chahatt Khanna separated from her husband Farhan Mirza in 2018 and was earlier married to Bharat Narsinghani. There were also reports that she was in a relationship with singer Mika Singh. She has been spending her lockdown with her kids and has also been sharing glimpses of her personal life on social media. Recently, she was trolled by netizens for being a single mother to her daughters Zohar and Amaira.

Now, the actress has lashed out at the trolls posting an open letter to them before deactivating her Instagram account. Bashing the trollers, she wrote, "Witches and b***hes who can never get love, bf or family in life, forget about kids, they will never understand that kids are a blessing and not a liability, or target to put a woman down. Khuda unko hi bachchon se nawajta hai jinki haisiyat aur kismat hoti hai. Main toh phir bhi theek ho jaungi, tumhari beemari ka kya hoga (God only blesses them with children, who have good luck. I will still be okay, how will you be cured of your illness)?".

In another of her Instagram stories, Chahatt explained the reason of quitting the photo-sharing app. She wrote, "No, I am not running away, just that I'll be busy with work, for a few days. Yes, my team will keep posting pics, not me. Par story par kuch logon ko muh tod jawaab dena bohot zaroori tha (But it was necessary to give it back to some people),” she wrote.

Earlier, the television actress had called the term 'Single Mother' as insulting. Speaking about her wish to settle down again, she said, "Of course, I want to settle down again. I would say that family is my priority and I have done my bit of my work. I have achieved success a few times that I wanted. I am doing well in my life, touchwood."

She added, "Right now, by God's grace, I have everything. After a while, I would like to settle down with a good life partner and not think about anyone or anybody." And as stated above, she also shed light on being a single mother and said, "It is a very insulting term, and I realised this much later. There is a term called Milf which these guys, doggers use for women who are elder to them, married, single parent, single mom, divorced and they think people like them are good to have fun with. This is a hard-hitting fact of our society which I just discovered a few days back and I was shattered when I came to know this. This is what happens when she steps out of her marriage."

She was recently in news when she and Mika Singh shocked and surprised a lot of people when they took to their respective social media accounts to announce to the world they are quarantined together. You all must have seen that post where the actress even used the hashtag #QuarantineLove to express her feelings for the singer. However, she issued a clarification later.

Catch up on all the latest entertainment news and gossip here. Also, download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

The Philippines Ministry of Finance has said that a lower value-added tax rate may be possible once the tax base is broadened and wider tax system changes are implemented.

President of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte revealed during his recent State of the Nation address that tobacco firm Mighty Corporation had agreed to settle three cases of tax evasion with the Filipino government.

Having accepted a settlement from the tobacco firm, the Philippines Bureau of Internal Revenue and the Department of Justice on October 2 dropped three tax evasion cases against Mighty Corp.

Filipino Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez has called on lawmakers to pass a package of tax measures, including a cut to the corporate tax rate and a reduction in tax breaks and holidays.

The Philippines has launched a tax amnesty for those with unsettled estate tax liabilities.

Women prefer casual sex as well
If you thought men are more likely to accept a sexual invitation from a stranger than women are, you are probably wrong. A team of German researchers has revealed that the rates of interest in casual sex are exactly the same for men and women. A recent study conducted at a university in Mainz, Germany, revealed that when societal judgement and safety risks are removed, women are more likely to accept sex propositions from strangers.

Women crave more sex as they get older
A recent survey conducted by an American marketing firm, which included more than 1000 women aged 18 and above has debunked the theory that women are not interested in sex as they get older. The survey found that 89 percent of women in the age group 45 to 55 are the most experimental. Twenty-eight percent women said they had sex between two and seven times a week.

Menopause is not the end
Researchers at a London college have found that menopause doesn't kill-off a woman's sex drive as it is usually believed. They studied four years' worth of answers that women provided about their sexual health both before and after menopause. The rate of sexual dysfunction over the four-year study period was about the same -- 22 percent to 23 percent -- for both pre and post-menopausal women, which suggested that menopause isn't as important a contributor to sexual issues as once thought.

Straight women have same-sex fantasies too
A recent study on the sexual behaviour and preferences of women conducted at an American university found 60 percent of heterosexual women admitted to being attracted to other women, while 45 percent had kissed another woman. Fifty percent of those participants also reported same-sex sexual fantasies. The findings showed that straight women, not just lesbians, ogle at beautiful women.

Women don't 'strike first' when it comes to online dating
In the online dating world, women do not like to send personal messages to initiate contact and later mating and would rather send "weak signals" than making the first move. While studying dating behaviour of women on the internet, researchers found that users with anonymous browsing viewed more profiles. They were also more likely to check out potential same-sex and interracial matches. Surprisingly, however, users who browsed anonymously also wound up with fewer matches than their non-anonymous counterparts. This was especially true for female users: those with anonymous browsing wound up with an average of 14 percent fewer matches.

Representational picture

A recent study conducted in the US revealed that although men think about sex nearly 24 times a day, women are not that far behind. The research showed that the average woman thinks about sex around 18 times a day.

Also, women think about getting naughty between the covers once every hour. The study was conducted by a team of researchers, during which, 283 college students aged between 18 and 25 were asked about various things, including food, sleep and sex over the course of the week.

The female mind during sex
Another study revealed that, a Hollywood hunk, ex-lovers, a blue film scene and even what to buy in a grocery store are some of the many things that women think of while having sex. They even think of men they secretly fantasise of.

Thinking their way to sexual climax?
Scientists have long been intrigued by the claims of some women who insist that they can 'think themselves to orgasm' even when they are completely alone, with no physical touch involved. And now, they have confirmed that for women, at least, it’s all in the mind.
- With inputs from agencies