Relationships in Tinsel Town can be very fragile. There are a lot of couples that got married and there are more couples that drifted apart due to irreparable differences. One of the couples is Shefali Jariwala and Sidharth Shukla. Shefali turned a lot of heads and made a lot of noise when she became the wild-card entry in Bigg Boss 13 last year, and her bonding with Shukla could clearly be seen. And speaking to BollywoodLife, she spilled the beans on her past and current relationship with the actor.

She said, "See, initially we bonded and then we had a bad fight. After he came back from the secret room, our equation got better. Both of us are very logical people. Also, we have similar interests, we would talk about travel, space, bullet trains and what not. Even after we stopped dating, we were always cordial whenever we bumped into each other."

And then, talking about his relationship with Shehnaaz Gill, she said, "See, that is my opinion of their equation from what I saw inside the house. Sidharth definitely cares for her but I did not find it a romantic equation per se. However, saying that, I would be happy if they indeed fell in love and got married. It would be great. It will be wonderful."

Would you also like to see Shehnaaz and Sidharth tie the knot soon? 

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A lot of Bollywood and Television celebrities came forward to contribute to the PM-CARES Fund and did their best to help people financially. Bigg Boss fame Devoleena Bhattacharjee has done something beyond. She not only contributed to the fund but has now adopted two families and will be looking after their needs and necessities amid the Coronavirus outbreak.

Taking to Twitter, one of the fan-clubs of the actor even thanked her for this wonderful gesture and move that should inspire everyone. And in case you also happen to be a fan of the actress, this tweet is for you:

Have a look right here:

Thank youuuu so much @Devoleena_23 for Adopting 2 families for 1 month Nd Donating Money for Thier food & groceries ...
This will be the best bihu gift for your Assam fans
God bless you ❤ï¸ÂðŸ™Œ @Devoleena_23 pic.twitter.com/CdhQ8Ffl9v

— Veera kunapareddyðŸ¦Â‹ (@veerakunaparedy) April 14, 2020

To shed some more light, these two families are the families of the wage workers since these are the people that are affected the most during this lockdown. Their earnings have gone for a toss and so has their livelihood. And in case you forgot, she and her fans also helped a pregnant lady reach the hospital on time during this lockdown period. Way to go!

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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.

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Besides being an actor, Meghna Naidu is now turning life coach. "I have always been keen to be a certified life coach to help people find their self-worth. By professionally counselling someone, I am hoping to guide them to a better path," says Naidu after wrapping up her course.

Slambook

Arhaan Khan

One superpower you wish to possess?
The power of X-ray vision.

Your guilty pleasure movie?
Hum Hayeen Ganwaar (Bhojpuri, 2017).

The last nightmare you had?
That my phone bill went up by R100 every time I pressed the snooze button on my alarm.

Your best asset?
My butt.

Which same sex actor are you crushing on?
Always Salman Khan.

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When you can't go to the salon, the salon comes to you. Karanvir Bohra's daughters, Vienna and Bella, turned their home balcony into a spa to pamper him. A head massage was followed by a face pack.

The twins also insisted on applying nail paint. "Never have I been so indulgent... looks like the roles of the Bollywood actresses will have some competition. I have the masters at work (sic)," the actor captioned the image he posted. Talk of glowing skin and sparkling nails.

 

 

 

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Never have I been so indulgent.. looks like the roles of the Bollywood actresses will have some competition.. I have the masters at work.. 😊 @twinbabydiaries @kareenakapoorkhan @deepikapadukone @priyankachopra @aliaabhatt @dishapatani BEWARE

A post shared by Karanvir Bohra (@karanvirbohra) onApr 19, 2020 at 2:48am PDT

How adorable do Karanvir's babies look while trying to make their dad look prettier? Several of Karanvir's industry friends found the photo cute. Teejay Sidhu wrote, "24/7 entertainment!" while Sameera Reddy commented, "Love love love" and Mandana Karimi said, "that nail polish @karanvirbohra I want my video. they made my day Thank you."

Truth be told, they've made our day too!

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On Monday, JD Majethia, chairman of the TV wing of the Indian Film and TV Producers' Council (IFTPC), stated that he intends to approach the government to seek permission to resume shoots of television shows with small crews from May 4. The move has sent the daily-wage workers of the television industry into a tizzy as they have been relentlessly calling the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) to enquire whether they can report to work post-May 3.

BN Tiwari, president, FWICE, says, "[With his statement], JD Majethia has sent a wrong message to the daily wagers who now feel that producers are willing to work, but the FWICE is imposing unnecessary restrictions. That is not the case. Maharashtra is at high risk, and we are only concerned about our workers' safety. We have issued a letter to Majethia, asking him not to make such statements."

BN Tiwari

On March 15, various cine bodies had unanimously decided to suspend all shoots in the wake of the pandemic. "Similarly, the decision to resume work will have to be collectively taken by IFTDA, FWICE, Producers' Guild, and other associations," insists Tiwari.

Majethia was keen to propose the resumption of shoots as it would bring relief to the daily wagers. However, Tiwari points out that the associations are standing by those in need. "The industry — including Salman Khan, Ajay Devgn, Rohit Shetty and Yash Raj Films — has come together to help the workers. Even if the lockdown is lifted on May 3, we may not begin work until May 25. In case the stay-at-home orders are extended to June, we will continue to take care of our workers."

When mid-day reached out to Majethia, he agreed that the recommencement of shoots will be "a collective decision of the industry" with the approval of the government. "It is not as if we have already taken a call. We will start shooting only when it is safe for everyone, but we must start planning for it in advance."

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Bigg Boss 13 still continues to be in the limelight and so does its contestants. One of them is Rashami Desai. You all must be aware of the '15 lakh' controversy that happened between her and Arhaan and a screenshot of the same was also shared on Twitter. And now, speaking to Times of India, Rashami broke her silence and slammed Arhaan.

She said, "These transactions were made in my absence, and that too, without my knowledge when I was inside the BB house. When I came out and learnt about it, I shared the screenshots of my personal documents and these transactions with my accounting staff and a few others. Why did Arhaan transfer my money into his account? Also, I don't know the people he has further transferred those funds to."

She added, "Apart from the 15 lakh that Arhaan has to pay me, as can be seen in the screenshots, he owes me more money, which he is refusing to return. Talking about the screenshots, I have no clue who has leaked them on social media. If I had to leak anything, I wouldn't have waited for two months after BB. I don't want anything to do with Arhaan. The whole incident is disturbing and it has taken a toll on me, emotionally."

Arhaan too broke his silence and commented on the entire controversy and clarified his side of the story. He said, "Half the transactions involving huge amounts aren't mine. Rashami had set up a production house, which I had joined as a partner. I have invested equally, both financially and emotionally. Any transfer of funds is either my rightful profit or return of debt. Also, before making such allegations, it is to be noted that transfer of funds wouldn't have been possible had Rashami not given me signed cheques."

He continued, "She had asked me to transfer money to certain people in her absence. It was work-related. She was fully aware of the transactions and I have bills to prove my claim. I strongly believe that this is a curated plan to malign me, as I had received messages, warning me against adversities post April 15. It's unfortunate that our relationship has reached a point of no return."

Will the matter escalate or subsidise as time passes by? Will a legal battle ensue?

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Actor Rajeev Khandelwal will make his theatre debut in the play "Court Martial". He says essaying a character on stage is supremely challenging and it provides the ultimate validation for any actor.

"I think essaying a character on stage for theatre is supremely challenging and provides the ultimate validation for any actor. I have always envied actors who can entertain audience on stage. It was as good as one of the things in my 'to do list'," Rajeev said.

Zee Theatre's teleplay "Court Martial" follows the unusual trial of a junior ranked army man convicted of murdering his senior officer. Rajeev plays the role of Bikash Roy, an extremely sharp defence lawyer who goes deep into the shocking truth behind the assault.

Talking about the play, the actor said: "'Court Martial' demanded an intensity that required me to work on myself and prep for the role. It is an intense and gripping play with a fabulously taut storytelling technique. This play is regarded as a classic in the world of theatre."

Written by Swadesh Deepak, the play also stars Govind Pandey, Bhagwan Tiwari, Saksham Dayma and Swapnil Kotiwar.

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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

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".

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Well aware that they enjoy an unparalleled reach across India, Ekta Kapoor has brought together top television stars for a special video to highlight the importance of staying indoors amid the pandemic. Bigg Boss 13 winner Sidharth Shukla, Mouni Roy, Anita Hassanandani, Karishma Tanna and Maniesh Paul are among the many actors who have shot their portions at their respective homes.

"The video is a collective effort by the television producers' association of our country. The current scenario calls for us to be united more than ever, and entertainment is the common language across the country," says Kapoor, the brain behind the initiative. By offering a peek into the daily lives of the actors, the video shows how one can utilise the stay-at-home period productively. "We [roped in] top television stars so that it resonates with people across the country. This is our endeavour to encourage everyone to stay home," adds Kapoor.

Roy, who features in the video that drops online today, believes one must use the time to pause and reflect. "I remember reading that it would be sad if we came out of this experience unchanged. The need of the hour is to stay in, take care of yourself and your families, and maintain social distancing."

Positivity is key to tackling the crisis, says Sonali Jaffar, who conceptualised the feature. "We may not be able to control the events, but we have the power to not get reduced by them. The television fraternity has come together to abide by what is considered the new normal," she says.

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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.

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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.  

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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!

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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.

 

 

 

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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.

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A lot of Bollywood filmmakers and actors have said that the legacy of Hindi Cinema will now be split into pre-Corona and post-Corona. And during this lockdown, nobody will forget the fact that it was all also the time when we got the opportunity to see some unseen and amazing throwback pictures of Television and Bollywood celebrities. Joining the bandwagon is Ramayan's Sita aka Dipika Chikhlia.

For all those who grew up in the 90s, this picture will surely put a smile on your face. But here's a genuine question- How many of you knew that Superstar Rajesh Khanna also graced her wedding reception? In case you feel it's not true, here's some proof.

Have a look at the picture right here:

 

 

 

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Rare Rajesh khana attending Dipika Chikhliya Marriage photo #90s #Ramayan #ramayan #dipikachikhlia #sita #bollywoodmovies #rajeshkhanna

A post shared by The90sIndia (@the90sindia) onApr 20, 2020 at 6:02am PDT

Such was the legacy of the TV show that they all got a call from the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and he personally wanted to meet the team and facilitate them. And the actress even took to her Instagram account to share a picture with him, have a look:

 

 

 

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This is the 1st time we were felicitated ....we realized we were a part of a legacy Ramayan ..we created history ...remember the day vividly when we got a call from delhi to meet the PM ...#rajivgandhi#feliciate#delhji#ramayan#ramayanworld#sagarworld#shivsagar#lockdowndisriessa

A post shared by Dipika (@dipikachikhliatopiwala) onApr 25, 2020 at 8:39pm PDT

Ramayan and Mahabharat were truly historic in their own ways, and the reruns have been phenomenal with never-seen-before TRPs. Well, as they say- Old Is Gold!

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No househelp and no option to step out have made many feel like being locked up in the "Bigg Boss" house. But former "Bigg Boss" contestant Hina Khan says that participating in the reality show and experiencing the ongoing COVID-19 lockdown have nothing in common.

The reality show, an Indian version of international series "Celebrity Big Brother", features celebrities locked inside a house for months under constant camera surveillance, without any gadgets or luxury. "The 'Bigg Boss' house and this quarantine phase are poles apart in regards to any kind of a comparison. There is no tactic I am using right now," Hina told IANS.

Unlike the show where the contestants have to be away from their loved ones, Hina is living with her family in Mumbai right now and is feeling fortunate. "I am so happy to have them by my side during these tough times," said the "Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai" actress.

Like others, she is also doing household chores and keeping herself entertained with engaging content online. "From cooking to cleaning to working out to watching stuff online, I have been diverting my mind with things that are positive and productive. Right now it's best doing what you like doing more than anything else, to deal with the home quarantine phase in a better way," she said.

The lockdown, which has been imposed since March, has been a learning experience for her. "The art of patience is the biggest thing I have learnt from the lockdown. Keeping calm, composed and patiently passing through each day is what I am now getting much better at," she shared.

She doesn't have big plans after the lockdown gets over. "I feel that even when the lockdown is over, getting back to the normal way of life like it was before this whole scenario began, is honestly going to take a lot of time. So even if there are things I want to do, it's all going to be done with keeping necessary precautions in mind first," she said.

While there is still time for the lockdown to be lifted, viewers can enjoy her recently released short film titled "Smartphone". "The short film has a great message. One is about never underestimating anybody else's abilities and there is a strong sense of women empowerment as well, so content-wise it is quite good. And right now I feel that good, meaningful and interesting content is what people need to be given to watch, to help divert their minds from the stressful situation that we are all facing at the moment," said Hina.

She plays a rural woman in the short film.

"It was a challenging role with lots of nuances to keep in mind. From the desi accent to the language, dressing style and even personality traits of the character, I had to ensure that every small detail was perfect! And challenges like these in my work space are what I actually look forward to and enjoy working on, so this definitely is one of those amazingly challenging projects," she said.

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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.

 

 

 

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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."

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Actress Karishma Tanna has donned the baker's hat amid lockdown. Karishma took to Instagram Stories, where she shared a photograph of an orange cake. She wrote: "Orange cake made by me."

On Thursday, Karishma, who is known for her roles in TV shows like "Naagin", "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi", "Naagarjuna: Ek Yodha" and "Qayamat Ki Raat", took to Instagram Stories, where she shared a photograph of a guitar and described it as her "new interest".

Recently, she also stunned her fans and followers by doing a complicated yoga pose.

On the work front, she is currently part of the action reality show "Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi 10" (KKK 10), which has been shot in Bulgaria. The show also features actors Ada Khan, Amruta Khanvilkar Karan Patel, Shivin Narang, Tejashwi Prakash, Amruta Khanvilkar and Rani Chatterjee, along with comedian Balraj Syal, RJ Malishka and choreographer Dharmesh Yelande.

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It has been a tough time for actress Karishma Tanna. If the nationwide lockdown wasn't enough to make her life come to a standstill, she's now at complete bed rest due to her ingrown nail for which she recently got operated. And she has even shared some Instagram stories to confirm the same.

Taking to her Instagram account, she shared some stories where we could see her lying on her bed and watching her favourite episodes and films to divert her attention from the pain that was inflicted upon her. It may make you smile, but also feel sad for her.

Have a look right here:

On the work front, she's all set to be a part of Khatron Ke Khiladi 10, and the contestants this time include Ada Khan, Amruta Khanvilkar Karan Patel, Shivin Narang, Tejashwi Prakash, Amruta Khanvilkar and Rani Chatterjee, along with comedian Balraj Syal, RJ Malishka and choreographer Dharmesh Yelande.

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A few weeks ago, reports about Karan Kundra and Anushka Dandekar's break up began surfacing on social media and fans were worried. One of the most loved couples of Tinsel Town was suddenly no longer together? Well, the good news is they are very much together and their Instagram video is proof. They both shared the same video on their respective accounts to silence all the speculations.

It was a video that was all about virtual dating and was truly edited crisply and fantastically. Anusha wrote- "Ok so it's been over 6 weeks of lockdown. Karan and I are virtual dating! Obviously I worked out some amazing ways to keep the love alive! @bumble_india also has an amazing Video Chat feature so you guys can connect with your Bumble matches while staying home. Why don't you give these tips a go? Also don't forget to tell us how it went! Remember you can still find the love of your life or reunite with yours soon, this will help keep it special." (sic)

Have a look right here:

 

 

 

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Ok so it’s been over 6 weeks of lockdown😅💔 soooo Karan and I are virtual dating! Obviously I worked out some amazing ways to keep the love alive! 💯 @bumble_india also has an amazing Video Chat feature so you guys can connect with your Bumble matches while staying home. Why don’t you give these tips a go? Also don’t forget to tell us how it went! 😘❤ Remember you can still find the love of your life or reunite with yours soon, this will help keep it special. 💛💛💛 @kkundrra @bumble_india

A post shared by Anusha Dandekar (@vjanusha) onMay 3, 2020 at 6:01am PDT

Now here's hoping all those people who were mourning their break-up cheer up and we hope they continue sharing such charming videos on social media to keep all of us happy!

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TV czarina Ekta Kapoor along with her friends Krystle D'Souza and Anita Hassanandani has shared a throwback video where the trio dances in a funny manner. Ekta took to Instagram and re-posted a video shared by Anita. The producer said she was coerced into joining by her two "mad" friends.

"Not on tik tok but got coerced into this cray video by two of my mad frns ! Since d lockdown is throwing out all old madness let it all be out there credit: @anitahassanandani... Girls just wanaaa have fun! #ThrowBack Merriii cuties @ektarkapoor@krystledsouza," she shared.

 

 

 

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Girls just wanaaa have fun! #ThrowBack Merriii cuties @ektarkapoor @krystledsouza

A post shared by Anita H Reddy (@anitahassanandani) onMay 3, 2020 at 4:49am PDT

Recently, Ekta shared a throwback picture from the days of "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi", the show that made Smriti Irani a household name as the nation's favourite telly-bahu, Tulsi.

 

 

 

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Three of us ! Wat e throwback #tarunkatyal @smritiiraniofficial n moi! #thenandnow

A post shared by Erk❤️rek (@ektarkapoor) onApr 13, 2020 at 6:36am PDT

Anita built a fan following with shows like "Kabhii Sautan Kabhii Sahelii", "Kkavyanjali" and "Yeh Hai Mohabbatein" over the years. She was last seen in "Naagin 3". In Bollywood, she was paired opposite Tusshar Kapoor in the Ekta-produced film, "Kucch To Hai".

Krystle rose to prominence with her roles in "Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hai", "Ek Nayi Pehchaan" and "Brahmarakshas".

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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.

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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.

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Sambhavna Seth was rushed to an Andheri hospital on Monday night, her celebs friends had expressed shock over her sudden hospital visit. The former Bigg Boss contestant is now back home and on the road to recovery. Her blood pressure dipped and she had a panic attack after experiencing temporary loss of hearing due to a blocked ear.

Sambhavna and husband Avinash Dwivedi shared a video talking about their ordeal to get hold of a doctor during COVID-19 times.

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sambhavna Seth (@sambhavnasethofficial) onMay 6, 2020 at 12:44am PDT

Landmark celebration

Sa Re Ga Ma Pa completes 25 years this month and Zee is planning a celebration, Ek Desh Ek Raag, to mark the singing reality show's landmark year. It includes a 25-hour fundraising liveathon on the channel's Facebook page on May 23. It will be followed by a concert on May 24 on the channel in which iconic faces on the show, including Himesh Reshammiya, Richa Sharma and Javed Ali, will perform from their respective homes.

Be my guest tonight

Ramman Handa is launching an online chat show, Quarantine Diary, in which actors will reveal unknown facts about themselves. The first guest is Ghajini (2008) actor Pradeep Rawat. It will give an insight into how the character actor bagged the film and lesser-known facts about the making of the Aamir Khan-starrer. As Handa resides in a Goregaon complex with several stars from the big and small screen as neighbours, he hopes they will feature on his YouTube show.

Hello, Anayka

Smriti Khanna and Gautam Gupta have named their newborn, Anayka. The Meri Aashiqui Tum Se Hi actor shared the news on social media. She shared the first family photo and revealed the name of her daughter. The telly couple welcomed their first child on April 15.

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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!

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Representational picture

A recent study conducted by a popular dating website on over 5,000 smartphone users above the age of 18 has some interesting findings regarding their dating behaviour. According to the results, Android users are apparently judged 21 times more negatively by iPhone users for using a smartphone running an Android OS.

On the other hand, Android users are likely to judge an iPhone user 15 times more negatively.

The study found that one major reason for this is the possibility of an iPhone user belonging to a higher income strata than an Android user. 40 per cent more than the median Android users earn lesser money than an iPhone user per year, which would a deciding factor, when it comes to going on a date.

Additionally, the study found that 15 per cent of adults, who are currently dating would think twice before dating someone with a cracked smartphone screen. This is regardless of whether the person is a iPhone or Android user. Other aspects like bad grammar, bad fashion sense, crooked or discoloured teeth also played a role in their decision making.

Illustration/ Uday Mohite

I had an affair with someone while dating my girlfriend a few years ago. She didn't know about it and I put it behind me. I didn't cheat on her ever again. We got married eventually, a year ago, and I recently ran into the woman I had an affair with. She says she still has feelings for me and has threatened to tell my wife about our affair. If my wife finds out, she will assume that I have always been unfaithful, even though I haven't. I don't know what to do. I can't threaten this woman because she says she will file a police complaint. I'm desperate. I don't want my marriage to end like this because of a stupid mistake that I made years ago.
First of all, threatening anyone is a ridiculous thing to do, so don't even think about it. Secondly, as you yourself admit, this was a stupid mistake that was made years ago. If you want your relationship with your wife to get stronger, you will simply have to fess up. If she trusts you enough to have married you, she shouldn't have any problem believing that you haven't been unfaithful since then. Cheating on someone is always wrong, so try to be as honest about your reasons as possible. There may be some hostility at first, which is natural, but it is up to you to convince your wife, because that is the only way she will be able to ignore this other woman's threats and move on. Also, it is only by moving on as a stronger couple that you will both allow this other woman some sense of closure and compel her to move on too.

My girlfriend has a massive crush on a Bollywood actor, which makes me jealous for no reason. How do I deal with this?
The chances of her hooking up with this Bollywood actor are as remote as your chances of hooking up with him. She's with you. Focus on that.

The quality of sleep you get is always important, but even more so in times like these. And to help you deal with your sleep troubles, Audible has launched a brand new slate of content that is perfect to listen to when hitting the sack. Headlined by world-renowned artists like Diddy and Nick Jonas, this slate has been created in part through a collaboration with Arianna Huffington’s Thrive Global and will be offered to listeners, absolutely free of cost.

Mindful titles such as Honor Yourself (narrated by Diddy on Sleep) and You are Here (narrated by Gabby Bernstein) will be sure to put your mind at ease. The Perfect Swing, an inspiring bedtime story narrated by Nick Jonas, is the best way to drift off after a long day. 6 Sleep Myths Debunked, narrated by Arianna Huffington, gives you a quick lowdown on how to improve your sleep cycle.

These stories, many of which are penned and voiced by wellness experts, are a treat for your daily sleep rituals. Relaxing bedtime stories, ASMR (autonomous sensory meridian response) and sound baths (a technique where participants bathe in sound waves produced by the human voice and instruments such as chimes, gongs and drums) promise a soothing experience for adults and children, alike.

Shailesh Sawlani, Country Head, Audible India said “The world is going through a difficult time, and it is essential to have a sound mind and body, now more than ever. At Audible, we understand that sleep plays a crucial role in managing stress and we believe in the power of audio content to soothe the mind. We are proud to collaborate with some of the world’s leading personalities and Ariana Huffington’s Thrive Global to release this new slate of audio content, specifically designed to help you rest better at night. We hope the sleep-inducing, wellness content across our audiobooks and Suno collection will help you find peace in these trying times and nurture your mental well-being”.

ALSO READ: Nick Jonas turns Priyanka Chopra’s in-house piano instructor

Singer Madonna and world leaders have raised over $8 billion for Covid-19 relief to help those impacted during this pandemic. Recently, she also revealed that she had tested positive for coronavirus antibodies.

Taking to her Instagram on May 6 to clarify certain things, she wrote, "“I’m Grateful that I can be a part of supporting Research to Find the cure for Covid -19!! And just to clear things up for people who would rather believe sensationalist headlines than do their own research about the nature of this virus—I am not currently sick."

“When you test positive for anti-bodies it means you HAD the virus which I. clearly did as I was sick at the end of my tour in Paris over 7 weeks ago along with many other artists in my show but at the time We all thought we had a very bad flu. Thank God we are all healthy and well now. Hope that clears things up for the band wagon jumpers!! Knowledge is Power," Madonna added.

 

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Im Grateful that I can be a part of supporting Research to Find the cure for Covid -19!! ???????? And just to clear things up for people who would rather believe sensationalist headlines than do their own research about the nature of this virus— I am not currently sick. When you test positive for anti-bodies it means you HAD the virus which I. clearly did as I was sick at the end of my tour in Paris over 7 weeks ago along with many other artists in my show but at the time We all thought we had a very bad flu. Thank God we are all healthy and well now. Hope that clears things up for the band wagon jumpers!! Knowledge is Power! #covid19

A post shared by Madonna (@madonna) on May 6, 2020 at 10:18am PDT

Madonna has donated $1.1 million for the relief fund. She has also joined hands with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to find a drug that will prevent or treat COVID-19.

Amitabh Bachchan was recently called out for breaking social distancing rules as he started to shoot for season 12 of Kaun Banega Crorepati amid the Coronavirus lockdown. The promo recently came out and after the backlash, Amitabh Bachchan justified his reasons through his blog post yesterday. He insisted that all the precautionary measures were taken to shoot the promo and that they did a two-day shoot in just a day. He asked people to keep their problems to themselves in the blog post.

It read, “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 !! 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 ..”

The registrations promo was shot at his house with Nitesh Tiwari as the director.

Also Read: Navya Naveli graduates at Jalsa, Amitabh Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan are super proud

Devoleena Bhattacharjee has been asked to home quarantine for 14 days as a cook from her building has tested positive for Coronavirus. The person tested positive also cooked at Devoleena’s place and now her building has been sealed. Residing in Goregaon East with her mother and brother, the building also housed a few other celebrities of the television industry.

Currently, Devoleena is all by herself during the lockdown as her family was in Assam when it was imposed and had no choice but to stay back. She has been asked to take the necessary precautionary measures as the entire building has been put under containment. The Bigg Boss 13 fame Devoleena Bhattacharjee gave her statement to a news portal where she revealed the details.

On the professional front, she has not announced her next project.

Also Read: Devoleena Bhattacharjee says Rashami Desai trusted a fraudster and is paying for it

Rakul Preet Singh started off with the south industry and is now one of the coveted actresses of Bollywood. She started off as a sportsperson and has played golf at a state level, but soon changed industries and her mother was the driving force for the career change. Her mother, Rini Singh revealed that she was the one that prepared her for Miss India and encouraged her to audition. Whenever Rakul would question her how things will work out, Rini moulded her.

Even when Rakul expressed that she will be required to wear a bikini, her mother said that she will prepare for it. Rakul reveals that her parents were more comfortable with the idea of her wearing a bikini more than she was. Whenever they went shopping, her father would ask her to buy vibrant coloured bikinis rather than the dull ones. It was Rakul's mother that wanted her to be a part of the industry because she was aware that Rakul could do it.

Rakul also spoke about how her mom changed jobs to take care of her brother and her whenever her father was transferred. She definitely gives all the credit to her parents for being super supportive with her career. She will next be seen in Attack with John Abraham and Jacqueline Fernandes and has already started shooting for her untitled next with Arjun Kapoor.

Also Read: Rakul Preet Singh says Alia Bhatt is the best actress we have today

As celebrities are doing everything they can to help those in need, it’s been revealed that actor Farhan Akhtar recently donated 1,000 PPE kits to government hospitals to help the frontliners who have been working in the fight against the novel COVID-19.

Sharing a video on Instagram, Farhan urged everyone to donate as many PPE kits as they can. He captioned the video as, “Help our Covid 19 warriors. It is critical that we provide PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) kits to our healthcare workers for their protection in this #WarAgainstCovid19. I am personally donating 1000 PPE kits and have partnered with @tring.india to raise funds for more PPE kits which are in immediate need across India for our doctors and medical staff.”

He further said, “For your contribution, I will send a personal ‘thank you’ video message recognising your generosity. This video will be in permanent memory with you. Some of you will even get to interact with me over a live video chat. Log onto www.tring.co.in and go to my profile to donate. Let's all join the #WarAgainstCovid19 and #UniteForHumanity.”

 

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It is critical that we provide PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) kits to our healthcare workers for their protection in this #WarAgainstCovid19. I am personally donating 1000 PPE kits and have partnered with @tring.india to raise funds for more PPE kits which are in immediate need across India for our doctors and medical staff. For your contribution, I will send a personal ‘thank you’ video message recognising your generosity. This video will be in permanent memory with you. Some of you will even get to interact with me over a live video chat. Log onto www.tring.co.in and go to my profile to donate. Let's all join the #WarAgainstCovid19 and #UniteForHumanity #StaySafe #StayHome #JustTringIt #IndiaFightsCorona

A post shared by Farhan Akhtar (@faroutakhtar) on May 7, 2020 at 4:32am PDT

Farhan Akhtar, recently, participated in the mega digital concert I For India. It was a fundraiser hosted by his sister Zoya Akhtar and Karan Johar in order to raise funds for Covid-19 relief.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Shankar Mahadevan recreates Dil Chahta Hai featuring Aamir Khan and Farhan Akhtar

Dipika Chikhlia rose to fame with her performance as Sita in Ramanand Sagar's show Ramayan. Owing to the lockdown the show is being aired on television for the viewing of the younger generation. Now, Dipika is once again going to be seen on screen as she will be playing Sarojini in her new film.

Dipika took to her social media handle to unveil the first look poster of the movie which is based on freedom fighter Sarojini Naidu. Dipika is seen posing in a thoughtful mode in the poster.

#sarojininaidu...1st look....poster pic.twitter.com/zN5hhdSJmX

— Dipika Chikhlia Topiwala (@ChikhliaDipika) May 7, 2020

Sarojini is directed by Akash Nayak and Dhiraj Mishra. The story has been written by Dhiraj Mishra and Yashomati Devi. The venture is produced by Kanu Bhai Patel under the Royal Film Media banner. Sarojini Naidu is a strong personality in India's freedom struggle and is known as the Nightingale of India.

This is the first full-length feature film on Sarojini Naidu that will show her political career.

ALSO READ: Dipika Chikhlia reveals that people in small town think of her as Sita and touch her feet even today

Actress and former Bigg Boss contestant Devoleena Bhattacharjee is currently in quarantine after reports of her cook testing positive for coronavirus emerged. However, it turns out the cook has not been tested positive but has been quarantined after someone in a family he worked for tested positive for COVID-19.

In an interview with a web portal, Devoleena emphasised that she is well and her cook is not positive for coronavirus. She said that the government has put him up in a hotel and is being looked after very well. She further said that too much has been made out of this and it has made her more tired.

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

ALSO READ: Devoleena Bhattacharjee says this is the fourth time in the last five months that she is quarantined

In 2014 Irrfan Khan opted out of the Ridley Scott sci-fi spectacle The Martian which later released to raves. Ridley Scott is the director of such futuristic classic blockbusters as Alien and Blade Runner. Irrfan had told me, “Yes, I was offered The Martian. The director Ridley Scott and I met. I had a memorable conversation with him. What an inspiring man and talent. He is so many things at the same time and yet he told me he had seen my Lunchbox. I asked him how he could find the time to see films after being a producer, director and so many other things. He said films like Lunchbox were his bedtime stories. Can you believe it?”

Speaking of the role that was offered to him Irrfan had said, “It was that of a NASA scientist. While Matt Damon was in outer space my character was very much on earth. But meri baatein hawa mein ho rahi tthi (but I was talking in the air).” This was not the first time Irrfan was offered a role by Ridey Scott. “He had earlier offered me part in film with Russell Crowe which too I couldn’t do due to time constraints. Maybe I’ll be third time lucky.”

Alas, that was not to be. So why did Irrfan say no to Ridley Scott? “For Piku,” came the prompt reply. “I had committed my dates to Shoojit Sircar’s film, and no regrets about that. Piku is an important film in my career. For the first time I was seen in an overt romantic role. Not that I haven’t played romantic roles. I have, in Maqbool and The Lunchbox. But in these films I didn’t get a chance to romance my heroine with poetry and banter. Shoojit is a good filmmaker, and I’d love to work with him again. But more importantly, he is a wonderful human being.”

Irrfan has no regrets about losing out on The Martian. Weirdly the part that was offered to him, of an Indian character named Vincent Kapoor was played by an African American actor Chiwetel Ejiofor.

Also Read: American Indian actor Kal Penn on sharing screen space with Irrfan Khan in The Namesake

ZEE5 announced its next film Ghoomketu which is set to release on 22nd May. An aspiring writer’s 101 retreats into the life of the protagonist, Ghoomketu is played by Nawazuddin Siddiqui. The movie is a comedy-drama from the viewpoint of an inexperienced writer struggling to make it big in the film industry in Mumbai. On his quest to come up with a great story, he is inspired by day to day mundane life activities. Will his ambition and determination exceed his talents? Or will a corrupt cop, who is on a mission to find Ghoomketu, put a brake on his 30-day escapade?

Directed by Pushpendra Nath Misra and produced by Phantom Films and Sony Pictures Networks (SPN), this film will be exclusively releasing on ZEE5.

The quirk and humour in the movie are exaggerated with dramatic linguistic annotations. The film is set in a wickedly playful backdrop and will be great for the entire family to watch together. The film also has ace director Anurag Kashyap as a cop and the talented Ila Arun as Ghoomketu’s Aunt, in lead roles along with Raghubir Yadav, Swanand Kirkire, Ragini Khanna and others. The film will also see special cameos from Amitabh Bachchan, Ranveer Singh, Sonakshi Sinha, Chitrangada Singh, Lauren Gottlieb and filmmaker Nikhil Advani.

Actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui shares, “Ghoomketu is a quirky, never-seen-before character and I thoroughly enjoyed playing him. Anurag, who is generally behind the camera, will be seen sharing screen space with us and it was a great experience to work with him as an actor. ‘Ghoomketu’ has a phenomenal storyline which will definitely entertain the audience. During this time of the lockdown, I am glad that a humorous film that the entire family can watch is being streamed on ZEE5.”

Actor Anurag Kashyap shares, “Every film is a labour of love and I saw the conviction in the director of Ghoomketu and hence decided to do something which is my least favourite thing to do, which is act. The film is funny and heartwarming.”

Film Director Pushpendra Nath Misra adds, “Wherever we go, we are never far away from our roots. Ghoomketu, as the name suggests, is a story of the ‘journey to the beginning’. This a film where the protagonist - a writer- draws inspiration from the idiosyncrasies of his own family members. This was a dream project with a stellar cast (sublime actors, all of them), and the freedom to tell the story in a non-stereotypical way. For all the writers, their observation begins at home. This film is a celebration of our family members - our ‘Bua’s and ‘Chacha’s and ‘Dadda’s - who we (Ghoomketu) always carry in our hearts, wherever we go. I am glad it will reach the huge family audiences of ZEE5.”

Vivek Agrawal, Producer, Phantom Films says, Ghoomketu is one of those rare gems that will put a smile on your face while taking you through the struggle of a man who is out there trying his luck in Bollywood films. Bringing this story to life has been a roller-coaster ride, just like the protagonist’s journey in the film! It has been a pleasure working on ‘Ghoomketu’– a project that is relatable for many people, on so many levels and we are thrilled to have ZEE5 on board to release it.”

This quirky comedy is all set to confuse, entertain and make you laugh this Eid weekend. 

31/01/2020

Like always, Google doodle has our hearts. Google Doodle did its bit to laud the selfless service of the frontline medical professionals and wrote a thank you message as well.

When one hovers over the doodle, it shows the message, "To all doctors, nurses and medical workers; thank you".

The logo also features a little heart emoji to everyone who is fighting on the frontlines of the COVID-19 battle.

Medical professions have sidelined the threat of catching the infection and are choosing duty over everything else. Despite that, many healthcare workers have been facing abuse and are accused of carrying the virus.

Google wrote, "As COVID-19 continues to impact communities around the world, people are coming together to help one another now more than ever. We're launching a Doodle series to recognize and honour many of those on the front lines."

More than 18 lakh people have been tested positive for COVID-19. The first case was reported from Wuhan which became the epicentre of the infectious virus.

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Eighty-two more cases of COVID19 have been reported in Maharashtra on Monday, taking the total number of coronavirus cases in the state to 2064. According to Maharashtra Health Department, out of the 82 new cases of COVID19, three are from Pune, 59 from Mumbai, 12 from Malegaon, five from Thane, one from Vasai Virar, and two from Palghar.

82 new COVID19 cases including 59 cases in Mumbai reported in the state today; the total number of positive cases in the state is now 2064: Maharashtra Health Department pic.twitter.com/vQFBOh4rqr

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2020

India's tally of positive COVID-19 cases rose to 9,152 following an increase of 796 cases in the last 24 hours, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said on Monday.

Out of the total number of cases, 7,987 patients are active cases while 857 cases have been cured/discharged and migrated. With 35 deaths in the last 24 hours, the death toll has mounted to 308.

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Amid the rising number of coronavirus cases across the country, a heartwarming story of an IAS officer joining back work after delivering her baby is winning hearts online. Responding to the call of duty, IAS officer and Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation Commissioner (GVMC) G Srijana returned to work with her one month old baby thereby cutting short her maternity break in order to help the country fight the novel coronavirus crisis.

An extraordinary feather of @IASassociation. 2013 batch IAS Mrs @GummallaSrijana Commissioner @GVMC_OFFICIAL refused to take 06 months maternal leave and joined back her office with one month old baby in lap. Truly inspiring to all #CoronaWarriors #COVID__19 pic.twitter.com/mzbPsUyTco

— Chiguru Prashanth Kumar (@prashantchiguru) April 11, 2020

The 2013 batch IAS officer was working as the municipal commissioner of Greater Visakhapatnam until she was blessed with a baby boy nearly a month ago. But soon after the 21-day nationwide lockdown was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Srijana joined back work and cut short her maternity leave.

Stood in solidarity to the fight against #Covid_19 On the call of @PMOIndia @narendramodi #9PM9minute pic.twitter.com/kCT9PxQT7F

— Srijana Gummalla (@GummallaSrijana) April 5, 2020

When asked as to how she was looking after her baby while handling work, Srijana said that her lawyer-husband and her mother were her pillars of strength as they are providing her with ample support amid the nationwide lockdown.

à¤Â•à¥Â‹रà¥Â‹ना सà¤Â‚à¤Â•à¤ÂŸ मà¥Â‡à¤Â‚ à¤ÂÂÂ…पनà¥Â‡ à¤Â•रà¥Âतवà¥Âय à¤Â•à¥Â€ पà¥Âà¤Â•ार पर à¤ÂÂÂ…पनà¥Â‡ 1 माह à¤Â•à¥Â‡ बà¤Âšà¥Âà¤Âšà¥Â‡ à¤Â•à¥Â‡ साथ à¤Â—à¥Âरà¥Â‡à¤ÂŸर विशाà¤Â–ापà¤ÂŸà¥Âà¤ÂŸनम à¤Â•à¥Â€ नà¤Â—र à¤Â†यà¥Âà¤Â•à¥Âत शà¥Âरà¥Â€मतà¥Â€ सà¥Âƒà¤ÂÂÂœना à¤Â—à¥Âमà¥Âमाला वापस डà¥Âयà¥Â‚à¤ÂŸà¥Â€ पर लà¥ÂÂÂŒà¤ÂŸ à¤Â†à¤Âˆà¤Â‚।
भाà¤Â—à¥Âयशालà¥Â€ हà¥Âˆ यह राषà¥Âà¤ÂŸà¥Âर à¤ÂÂÂœहाà¤Â‚ à¤Âसà¥Â‡ à¤Â•à¥Â‹रà¥Â‹ना यà¥Â‹दà¥Âधा हà¥Âˆ। à¤Â•रà¥Âतवà¥Âय निषà¥Âठा à¤Â•à¥Â‡ à¤Â‡स à¤ÂÂÂœà¥Â€वà¤Â‚त à¤Â‰दाहरण à¤Â•à¥Â‡ लिà¤Â à¤Â†पà¤Â•ा हà¥Âƒदय सà¥Â‡ à¤Â†भार।#NoCoronaPolitics pic.twitter.com/7md7CxKRp2

— Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (@gssjodhpur) April 12, 2020

Srijana also said that she was aware of her responsibilities and that her service was of utmost importance during the coronavirus crisis. The 2013 batch IAS officer also states that the district administration is working in tandem in order to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Young #IAS Officers leading #fightagainstcorona.
GVMC Visakhapatnam Commissioner, Ms Gummalla Srijana @GummallaSrijana
joined back on duty with one month old baby without maternity leave to serve the City.#CoronaWarriorshttps://t.co/DyP3s0uU2z pic.twitter.com/2HlpvZU9pC

— IAS Association (@IASassociation) April 11, 2020

Srijana's inspiring story was shared by hundreds of netizens who lauded her efforts and her commitments towards the country amid the coronavirus crisis. Twitter user Chiguru Prashanth Kumar shared Sirjana's story and said that it was truly inspiring story for all coronavirus warriors.

She is the real SHERNI !!
India is proud of her🇮🇳
History is witness that whenever our Nation has faced crisis, the Sanatan Women have always come forward to fulfill their responsibilities.@NAN_DINI_ @Aabhas24 @prettypadmaja #CoronaWarriors https://t.co/k7y5OFd8Zf

— Sanatan Women (@SanatanWomen) April 12, 2020

While the IAS association through their Twitter handle said that Sirjana joined the duty with her one month old baby without maternity leave in order to serve the city. Twitter user Sanatan Women hailed Srijana as the real SHERNI while another user said that the country was lucky to have such corona warriors.

I salute Mrs.Srijana Gummala who is the Municipal Commissioner of Greater Vishakapatnam & is the
mother of a 1 month old baby.
She has returned to work, with her baby in her arms, because of COVID19 crisis. Yes, she has given up her maternity leave to serve the Nation.
🙏🙏🙏 pic.twitter.com/usYi95hVGb

— Ashoke Pandit (@ashokepandit) April 12, 2020

Filmmake, producer and social activist Ashoke Pandit also showered heaps of praises on IAF officer Sriana. Pandit said that he salutes Srijana Gummala, who returned to work, with her baby in her arms and also gave up her maternity leave to serve the nation.

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The penultimate day of 21-day lockdown saw the number of coronavirus cases in the country reach 9352 with 905 new cases reported in the last 24 hours. The government's action plan to contain the spread of COVID-19 has stared yielding results in 25 districts across 15 states which have not reported any case in the last 14 days

Fifty one people died in the last 24 hours taking total toll 324. As many as 25 staff members of Mumbai's Bhatia hospital tested positive for coronavirus and number of cases in the city has reached 1549. The number of those who have died has reached 100 in the city. Maharashtra with 2,064 cases continues to be the worst affected followed by Delhi with 1,154 cases and Tamil Nadu with 1075 cases. The number of containment zones in Delhi has been increased to 47.

New cases have been reported from several states including Kerala, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. Nagaland reported its first COVID-19 case following which several localities and a hospital in Dimapur hve been sealed. Uttarakhand Health Department said that no new positive COVID-19 case emerged in the state for the fifth day in a row.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation at 10 am on Tuesday and is likely to talk about the further course of action to deal with the crisis posed by virus. Union ministers and senior officials returned to work in their offices on Monday and work was done by following social distancing norms.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said 2,06,212 COVID-19 tests were conducted till yesterday. "The pace at which we are conducting tests today, we have a stock with which we can conduct tests for the next six weeks easily," ICMR's head scientist Dr Raman R Gangakhedkar said at the daily media briefing on COVID-19 situation.

He said consignment of COVID-19 kits is expected to arrive from China on April 15 In Delhi, traders at Delhi's Azadpur Mandi have been told to follow the odd-even rule according to their shed numbers to maintain social distancing. There will be staggered time for sale of vegetables and fruits in the mandis.

In Mangaluru, a case has been registered against two minors at East Police station after they violated the lockdown norms. They will be produced before the Juvenile Justice Board. A 17-year old was caught trying to sneak his friend out of his apartment complex using a suitcase.

"A17-year-old resident of Orchid Apartment Balmatta invited his friend, a resident of Motisham Apartment, Pandeshwar to stay with him on April 11, " said PS Harsha, the Commissioner of Police, Mangaluru. The friend wanted to return back to his apartment in Pandeshwar the next day but due to strict security put in place, he got inside a large trolley suitcase.

Based on the suspicion, security personnel alerted the residents of the building and opened the suitcase from which they were shocked to find a boy stepping out.

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While checking our bank accounts and our stocked fridges this week, have felt a moment of gratitude for the economic security nets that we have, that will help us tide over the next 21 days untill 30th of April 2020, as announced by the Indian government for breaking down the chain of COVID-19 i.e Coronavirus.

But there are also many who don’t have this net, and now do not have the option of stepping out to earn their daily wage and henceforth they are needy.

Some organisations & Individuals are helping the fortunate former reach out to help the latter. Meet Palan if one of the individual helping the poor society during the lockdown.

To help you aid these initiatives, Volunteers for Meet's team has put together a list of verified Non-Government Organizations, charities and institutions, which are working towards this cause in Rajkot, Gujarat.

For instance, Meet's & his team has successfully called for contributions and have donated more than 270 kilograms of rice with more than 235 kilograms of dal which is the basic staple food in india. Congratulations to Mr Meet Palan and all the best to him for his good deeds.

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New Delhi: With 1,211 fresh cases of coronavirus reported in the last 24 hours, the total number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the country has reached 10,363 including 339 deaths, said Lav Aggarwal, Joint Secretary, Health and Family Welfare, here on Tuesday.

As many as 1,036 people have recovered from the disease so far, said Aggarwal during the daily media briefing on the coronavirus. "In one day, 179 people were diagnosed and found cured," he added.

"A total of 10,363 confirmed cases have been reported in India including 339 deaths and 1,036 people, who were COVID-19 positive have recovered. Out of the total deaths, 31 deaths have been reported in the last 24 hours," said Aggarwal.

Aggarwal said that an evaluation of each district and city will be done till April 20.

"An evaluation of each district and city will be done till April 20 in which it will be evaluated what measures did that authorities take in these cities and districts to combat COVID-19," he said.

"Based on the results of this litmus test approach, permission will be granted for some selective activities to those districts and cities which controlled the situation effectively. Detailed guidelines will be issued soon," he added.

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With 1,076 new COVID-19 cases reported in the last 24 hours, India's tally of coronavirus cases has risen to 11,439, said the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Wednesday. Out of the total tally, 9,756 cases are active while 1,306 patients have been cured/discharged and migrated. With 38 new deaths reported in the last 24 hours, the death toll rises to 377.

According to the ministry, Maharashtra is the worst-affected state with 2,687 cases of which 259 patients have recovered/discharged while 178 patients have lost their lives due to the virus. Delhi comes in at the second position with 1,561 cases of which 30 patients have recovered while 30 patients have succumbed to the virus.

Tamil Nadu is the third state with over 1,000 cases at 1,204 cases of which 81 have recovered and 12 have died due to the deadly virus. Rajasthan is nearing the 1,000 mark with 969 cases of which 147 people have recovered while 3 patients are dead. Madhya Pradesh reported 730 cases including 51 patients recovered and 50 patients dead.

On Tuesday, in an address to the nation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the 21-day national lockdown has been extended till May 3.

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Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday demanded the Central government to bring back Indian workers stranded in the Middle East due to the COVID-19 crisis.

"The #Covid19 crisis & shutting of businesses in the Middle East have left thousands of Indian workers in deep distress & desperate to return home. The Govt must organise flights to bring home our brothers & sisters most in need of assistance, with quarantine plans in place," Gandhi tweeted.

The #Covid19 crisis & shutting of businesses in the Middle East have left thousands of Indian workers in deep distress & desperate to return home. The Govt must organise flights to bring home our brothers & sisters most in need of assistance, with quarantine plans in place.

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) April 15, 2020

In India, a total of 11,439 COVID-19 positive cases have been reported, including 1,305 cured/discharged and 377 deaths.

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As coronavirus pandemic deepens, over 117 million children in 37 countries are expected to miss out on receiving live-saving measles vaccine, the United Nations said on Tuesday. Measles immunisation campaigns in 24 countries have already been delayed and more will be postponed, the World Health Organization and the UN children's fund UNICEF said. "Together, more than 117 million children in 37 countries, many of whom live in regions with ongoing measles outbreaks, could be impacted by the suspension of scheduled immunisation activities," Measles and Rubella Initiative (M&RI) said in a statement.

New WHO guidelines endorsed by the Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunisation aim to help countries to sustain immunisation activities during the COVID-19 pandemic. "The @MeaslesRubella Initiative supports recommendations to: temporarily pause preventive immunisation campaigns where there's no active outbreak of a vaccine-preventable disease continue routine immunisation services, while ensuring the safety of communities and health workers," the statement added.

Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus. Before the introduction of measles vaccine in 1963 and widespread vaccination, major epidemics occurred approximately every 2-3 years and measles caused an estimated 2.6 million deaths each year globally. More than 140,000 people died from measles in 2018 - mostly children under the age of 5, despite the availability of a safe and effective vaccine.

The coronavirus has affected 210 countries and territories around the world. There have been 1,391,468 positive cases of COVID-19 globally and 591,751 people have died due to the deadly infection so far.

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Alappuzha District Collector M Anjana said that houseboats in the districts may be turned into COVID-19 isolation wards if the need arises.

Kerala: Alappuzha District Administration has decided to convert houseboats into isolation facilities amid #COVID19 outbreak. "This would increase our bed strength by 1500 to 2000",says M Anjana, Alappuzha District Collector. pic.twitter.com/YpPViQZ6aF

— ANI (@ANI) April 15, 2020

"The Alappuzha model of handling COVID-19 has been one of preparedness and prevention. In the first phase we did this successfully, but in the second phase we propose to have a different strategy. Though our numbers are comparatively less, we need to augment our isolation facilities," M Anjana told ANI here.

"We have sufficient number of facilities but in the process of augmenting the facilities we have had extensive discussions with the houseboat owners' association. All the houseboat owners agree with the proposal and are willing to support the district administration in this respect," she added. She said that houseboats have different bed strengths.

"By bringing them together at a single spot or at two spots we would be able to convert them as a single isolation facility. This would increase the isolation facility strength by around 1,500 to 2,000," she further said. According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, there are 387 COVID-19 cases in Kerala, including 211 cured/discharged/migrated and three deaths.

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A district magistrate court in Rohtak opened its doors on the night of April 13 to solemnise the wedding of a local boy marry a Mexican girl under the Special Marriage Act as both could not tie the knot due to the ongoing lockdown imposed to curb the spread of coronavirus. The couple met on a language learning app in 2017 and got engaged the next year.

Niranjan Kashyap: On Feb 17 we applied for marriage under Special Marriage Act which has 30-day notice. The notice was to end on Mar18 but lockdown started on Mar 19 so we couldn't get married.We submitted an application to District Collector after which he conducted our wedding. https://t.co/BuZtjVQFFm

— ANI (@ANI) April 15, 2020

According to Niranjan Kashyap, who hails from Surya Colony in Rohtak he and and his Mexican-origin partner Dana Joheri Oliveros Cruise applied to get married under the Special Marriage Act on February 17. "We met on a language learning app. In 2017, she came to India on my birthday. Then this February 11, Dana and her mother came to India for the wedding. On February 17, we applied for marriage under the Special Marriage Act which has a 30-day notice," Kashyap told ANI.

"The notice was to end on March 18 but by then the lockdown began so we could not get married. We submitted an application to the District Collector after which he conducted our wedding," he said. He further said that Dana had booked a flight back to Mexico on March 24 but with the lockdown being extended further till May 3 she has now rescheduled her flight to May 5

Dana said, "I came to meet him in 2017. We later got engaged in December 2018 and I returned to Mexico. I spent two years in Mexico. Due to lockdown, we couldn't marry. Deputy Commissioner helped us to marry."

Advocate Niranjan Kashyap, who helped the couple get married said: "Both of them came to us. Since the girl was from Mexico, they can marry under the Special Marriage Act. Later, we approached the District Magistrate and he sent requests to the Mexican Embassy and other offices for a no objection certificate. After NOC was obtained, the District Magistrate opened the court and performed the marriage on April 13 at 8 pm."

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With the coronavirus lockdown forcing people to stay at home, they are turning to the internet to keep their spirits up such a turbulent time. The social media is flooded with hilarious memes, videos and other posts that not only kept the netizens entertained but also spread awareness about the importance of maintaining  social distance.

Not just new content, even old content is making rounds of social media which is being seen in pretext of the lockdown. Union Minister Smriti Irani has shared a video to explain the importance of staying at home during the lockdown.

The video originally posted by popular Youtuber Ashish Chanchlani  in his page, Ashish Chanchlani Vines shows what would happen if American films were made in India. Portraying as a thriller, the video shows a man being chased by a masked man dressing like a ghost. As the man reaches at the doorstep of his house, he stops to remove his shoes and socks before stepping in, which customary in Indian households. After being prompted by the man, the killer removes his shoes too.

The union minister for Women and Child Development and Textiles posted the video on Instagram and captioned it as, "Lockdown Humour. Stay Home, Stay Safe!

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Smriti Irani (@smritiiraniofficial) onApr 12, 2020 at 9:54pm PDT

The post garnered 193,272 views and 23,209 likes on the photo-sharing app where many of her followers thanked her sharing the video along with posting hilarious reactions. One user said, "Culture with ever care vision (sic)." Another user said, "Kahani ghar ghar ki." A user said, "Nowadays, after entering the house both of them should wash their hands thoroughly too before continuing their run, otherwise donon ko corona mar degi!"

What do you think about this video?

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