Fact that Aparshakti Khurana has emerged as one of the ultimate social media buzz makers amidst the lockdown. After initiating digital antakshari, he started interactive Instagram Lives, brand collaborations, musical series called #InstaMusic and even featured in a special Lockdown Anthem video alongside various YouTubers.

With so much on, it won't be wrong to call Khurana the most entertaining and engaging celeb on social media currently. Taking his creativity to another level this time around, Aparshakti has shared his first-ever audio short film - Hisaab Barabar on Instagram which he wanted to present back from his Radio days.

The plot revolves around a girl called Suhani and her schoolmate Rinku, revealing how after disliking each other all these years during school, they end up falling in love with each other. Hisaab Barabar is already winning hearts, thanks to its beautiful storyline and Aparshakti's brilliance at storytelling. He does not just leave you smiling but makes you believe and see these two characters when you're just hearing about them. Well, that truly is the real art of narrating stories on audio.

 

 

 

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A post shared by Aparshakti Khurana (@aparshakti_khurana) onApr 18, 2020 at 3:30am PDT

The multi-talented star shared Hisaab Barabar on his handle saying, "For those who don’t know, I was working at a radio station 5 years ago and was working on a pilot of my new audio show but destiny had other plans and Dangal happened (which I am grateful of till date), because of which I had to leave the pilot midway. The idea of this audio show was so close to my heart that it continued to linger in my mind for the last 5 years. One of the segments was to be called YEH DILLI HAI MERE YAAR, where in I would have released one audio short film every Friday. Coming up is a story called Hisaab Barabar which is written and voiced by me. Just FYI, I might not have patience and energy to write and voice more stories but I shall try only if you like this one [sic]."

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"In all these years, we had not remained shut for even a day," says Nitin Desai, who closed the doors of ND Studio last month in the wake of the pandemic. At the time, a lavish set had been constructed for The Battle of Bhima Koregaon, a period drama featuring Arjun Rampal, and the Raigad fort recreated for a Marathi film. Desai tells mid-day that he has decided to forgo the rent of the sets standing unused at the Karjat studio.

"I am not the only one suffering losses at this point, the entire world is. So how can I expect them to pay the rent when everything has come to a standstill? I will also appeal to other studios to follow the same practice," he says, adding that despite the adverse conditions, he is continuing to pay his staff.

File photo of Panipat set created at ND Studio

The studio was handling several projects when the shutdown was announced. "We had created a huge battlefield and three villages for Arjun Rampal's film, and a haveli [palace] for a yet-untitled web show. Construction of huge sets was underway for two shows of Zee and Star," he adds."

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The 'late' patriarch 'showman' Raj Kapoor's guru-mantra, 'the show must go on' continues to inspire his three illustrious actor-director sons Randhir, Rishi and Rajiv Kapoor.

On Thursday, at the legendary R K Studios at Chembur, on Ganeshotsav following an elaborate Pujan, the sacred Ganesh aarti was performed by Randhir, Rajiv and 'nonagenarian' actor Vishwa Mehra (popularly called 'Mamaji' who was very close to Raj-saab and his family) late afternoon at 3.30 pm.

The Ganeshotsav at R K Studios assumed extra-sentimental significance this year, because the iconic studio-property has been put up for sale. If the realty deal goes through, this could possibly be their last obeisance within their hallowed studio premises, witness to glorious cinematic history. It was an emotionally overwhelming moment for the Kapoors and the large number of guest-devotees when 'Mamaji', 92, broke down while performing the aarti. Rajiv spontaneously assisted 'Mamaji'.

Rajiv and Randhir Kapoor with guests and staffers at the aarti

The loyalist said, "It was 63 years ago that the first Ganeshotsav was held at RK and I have been with Raj Kapoor-saab even prior to that. The golden era I spent with creative genius Raj-saab, all his buddies and his technical crew flashed in my mind, from the time we shot 'Awara' (1951) in RK studios. Suddenly, I realised that none of those senior talented masters are alive and I was perhaps the odd surviving man out."

Where's Rishi?
Conspicuous by his absence was charismatic Rishi Kapoor, a staunch Ganesh-bhakt. He has his own Ganapati idol at his Pali Hill home. Rishi said, "Unfortunately, owing to some prior commitment, I just could not make it. But the very next day [Friday morning] I went for Ganesh darshan at RK."

Tradition to continue
A sentimental Randhir said, "As long as the studios are there, the ceremony will exist, Whenever we shift to another location and office premises, the annual Ganeshotsav tradition will continue. We share a divine bonding with Lord Ganesha. We were compelled to sell the studios, as we were incurring huge losses. Especially after the devastating fire that broke out at RK, it was just not economically viable to reconstruct it. Film folk were also reluctant to travel all the way to Chembur," he finished.

Also Read: R.K. Studios Sale: Rishi Kapoor Reveals Why They Took The Decision

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In Mumbai and all over India, today 6th April marks the traditional New Year for Maharashtrians which signifies the welcoming of the spring. As people welcome the New Year with much fervour and enthusiasm, thousands of men and women in Mumbai take to the streets and participate in Shobha Yatras. One such yatra is that of Girgaon Padwa Shobha Yatra, one of the biggest and oldest Shobha Yatras in Mumbai. Every year, the highlight of this Shobha yatra is Dr. Aparna Bandodkar, and her bike 'Bijli; together they have become the face of the Girgaon Padwa Shobha Yatra. Since 2013, Bandodkar has been actively participating in the Girgaon Padwa Shobha yatra and riding her motorcycle with varied themes, thereby promoting the Maharashtrian culture and ringing in the New Year in style.

Also Read: Gudi Padwa 2019: All you need to know about the festival

Just as the people welcome the New Year across Mumbai, Maharashtra, we had the opportunity to interact with Dr. Aparna Bandodkar who in a candid conversation talks about the Girgaon Padwa Shobha yatra and more.

Aparna Bandodkar and other women ride motorcycles during the Girgaon Padwa Shobha yatra

Here are the excerpts from the interview:

Since how long have you been taking part in the Girgaon Padwa Shobha yatra. How has the journey been so far?

I have been taking part in the Girgaon Padwa Shobha Yatra since 2013. After I had my own bike, the very first thing that I wanted to do was ride inter-state and complete a part of my bucket list i.e. wearing a nine-yard sari and going to Girgaon. The Girgaon padava celebration started in 2002 and back then I used to see pictures of ladies who used to take part in the yatra. That's how I went to girgaon and they wholeheartedly welcomed me with my bullet. Post that, it became a ritual and this will be my eight year at Girgaon padwa celebration.

I started riding bullet at the Girgaon Shobha yatra in 2013 but before me, there were other women with different types of scooters and bikes who took part in the rally. It was the media who hyped it as I was the first woman to ride a bullet at the Girgaon Shobha yatra. Back then, a woman on a bullet was something new and at the time there were very few women riders. Now, the number of women riders is ever increasing. Today women ride heavier and meaner machines.

 

 

 

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Chudiya pehenne ka samay, aa chuka hai ! We wear bangles & ride the mean machines , our motorcycles too! #new look #shobhayatra #happiness #bijli #ridingisthereason #happinessisachoice #happinessishere #royalenfield #bulletjournal #bullet #ladyrider #riderchick #sherides #bulletmania #shobhayatra #womenpower #powerfulwomen #bindi #tattoo #bangles #throttle #getenchanted #soon #keepcalm #bijli #iscomingsoon #ridemode🔛 #bharatmatakijai #svypgirgaon #jaibhavani #jaishivaji #girgoanchapadwa

A post shared by Aparna Bandodkar (@enfieldmaniac) onApr 4, 2019 at 9:13pm PDT

How has the Girgaum Padwa Shobha yatra changed since the time you took part back in 2013?

At that time, the Girgaon padwa was not so glamorous as it is now. It was a very low key affair but today it is celebrated on a grander scale.

When I joined in 2013 there were about 15 women bikers and slowly and steadily the number has increased over the years. Today the majority of the women are on geared motorcycles and then there are scooters, vintage bikes and much more. Last year there were about 80-to 85 women taking part in the Shobha yatra on the bike. Women come far off from Vasai, Mulund, New Bombay to take part in the Gudi padwa celebrations. People are willing to travel and come and take part in the rally. There are a couple of women who even ride Harley Davidson bikes for the rally", says Bandodkar when asked how the Girgaon Shobha yatra has evolved over the years.

Aparna Bandodkar dons biking shoes on her traditional attire during the Girgaon Shobha yatra

Can you share a funny incident that took place with you during one of the Shobha yatras?

The very first day I took part my slippers broke when I tried to kickstart the bike. I was left with no choice but to take out my biking shoes and wear them with the nine-yard sari.

What kind of impact do you feel the Girgaum Padava Shobha Yatra has created?

Once you take part in the Girgaon Padwa Shobha yatra, you get confidence and you are not the same person anymore. Many more women come to the rally and then they realise their potential. Taking part in the yatra also boosts your confidence as you see more women taking part and breaking stereotypes.

Also Read: Urmila Matondkar spotted at Gudi Padwa bike rally in Mumbai

Such is the impact that, Aparna had seen a video where Indians who are staying abroad are seen celebrating Gudi padwa and had trained themselves in dhol Tasha Pathak and even replicated the whole parade in the western country.

 

 

 

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#girgaonchapadwa itself gave me & my beloved bijli a golden opportunity on television in 2014,after @zeemarathiofficial noticed me in the #shobhayatra & wanted me in the lead to replicate the exact festive charm of #girgaon #gudipadwa #hindunavvarsh #yatra Organised by @svyp_girgaon since 2003. That was my ticket to fame that led to back to back ads that year like zee Marathi Geet & YouTube ad for margarita with a straw ! I owe my gratitude to my dear Girgaon which is also my birthplace ( purandare hospital @ #girgaumchowpatty ) #8daystogo #cantkeepcalm #2019 #girgaonchapadwa #yetoy #sanmaan Marathi #abhimaan #marathi #mimarathi #zeemarathi P.S. and that’s my wedding #nauvari of 2010 that I am wearing in the ad . Makes it truly special, isn’t it 😊 #bijli #throwback #bindi #tattoo #bangles #gajra #throttle #positivevibes #positivityisthekey #ridemode🔛 #royalenfield #bulletjournal #awesome

A post shared by Aparna Bandodkar (@enfieldmaniac) onMar 29, 2019 at 5:11am PDT

What has been your fondest memory till of Girgaon Padwa Shobha yatra?

Recalling it quite vividly, Dr, Bandodkar says, "My fondest memory is that of a girl coming to me during the 2015 padwa rally and was all in tears. She started thanking me and said that 'You don't know what have you done'. She revealed that her parents never wanted her to ride a motorcycle but after the saw Dr. Aparna Bandodkar's Shobha yatra video on National television, they allowed her to ride her motorcycle to her workplace and that she was really happy about it. While speaking to me she was in tears and this brought tears into my eyes as well."

View Photos: Gudi Padwa: 10 authentic Maharashtrian dishes to try out

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Following an outcry from the residents of Dosti Blossom and Dosti Daffodil, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has decided to appoint IIT-Bombay or VJTI engineers for a structural audit of the buildings, to ascertain damage to them due to excavation on the adjoining Krishna Steel plot.

On Monday, a huge landslide at the neighbouring Lloyds Estate raised serious questions about the construction going on Krishna Steel plot, which is being developed by the builder Dosti Realty Ltd. After the accident, residents of Lloyds Estate, Dosti Blossom and Dosti Daffodil alleged that the builder was doing excess excavation at Krishna Steel plot and weak shore piling has been damaging their buildings for the past year. They also claimed no action was taken by BMC and the developer to avert a mishap.

Commissioner's approval needed
Speaking to mid-day, deputy chief engineer of the Building Proposal (BP) Department (city), R S Potdar said, "We have prepared a proposal to appoint experts like IIT-Bombay or VJTI for a structural audit of these buildings. Since we don't do structural audits of private buildings, we will have to take approval from the municipal commissioner. After that we will decide the further course of action." However, residents of Dosti Blossom said that they don't know anything about BMC's plan of appointing IIT-Bombay or VJTI experts. "We met officials from the building proposal department on Wednesday but there was no word about any such plan," said a resident.

'BMC harassed us'
Residents of Dosti Blossom and Dosti Daffodil buildings have alleged that last year when they raised an alarm over the sinking portions of their compound and cracks in their buildings due to excess excavation done at Krishna Steel plot, the BMC harassed them instead of taking action against builder. On Thursday, committee members of Dosti Blossom and Dosti Daffodil showed their letters to different civic departments regarding the dangerous condition of their buildings.

Manoj Gurav of Dosti Blossom said, "Last year after April we observed cracks on the building columns and sinking in the parking area which is adjoining the plot where excavation is going on. A huge portion of our parking area had sunk about a foot. Following this we had sent letters to the builder and the BMC to take action and make the premises safe." He added, "Instead of taking action against the builder, the F-North ward of the BMC sent us a letter, and held us liable for the damage done to the building. BMC officials told us to carry out a structural audit otherwise action would be initiated against us."

Also Read: Lloyd estate wall collapse: BMC bars Dosti Realty from construction at Wadala site

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The Kapoor family's decision to sell off the iconic R.K Studios set in Chembur, Mumbai has left Bollywood 'heartbroken'. The sprawling landmark was built 70 years ago by veteran actor Raj Kapoor. It was reported that the family has collectively decided to let go of the property.

Reacting to the same, veteran actor Annu Kapoor, who shot 'two important films there' said, "It's very heartbreaking since it's an iconic place." Another yesteryear actor, Sachin Pilgaonkar, opened up about the same and said, "I am sure there must have been some reason why they have decided to take this step. I cannot say if the decision is right or not since I am not at their position. I would just like to say that the places and studios with which numerous memories are attached should not be touched."

Paltan star Arjun Rampal said he felt lucky to have shot there multiple times. "It's up to the family to take the decision. It was an iconic studio, it still is, and I hope it remains," he added.

Bollywood producer Mukesh Bhatt, on the other hand, welcomed the Kapoor family's decision. "Change is a part of life. We should welcome it. Let the old go, let the new come," he noted. Many hit films including Barsaat, Awaara, Jagte Raho, Shree 420, Sangam, Bobby and Prem Rog were shot at the RK Studios. Last year in September, a massive fire broke out at the studio, leaving a part gutted.

In September last year, a major fire broke out on the sets of a dance reality show, leaving a section of the studio gutted. The Kapoor family has taken the tough decision of selling the two acres RK Studio 70 years after it was established as it was not economically viable to rebuild it after it was gutted down in a fire last year.

Also read: Kapoor family to sell iconic RK Studio, Kareena Kapoor Khan nostalgic

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Edited by mid-day online desk with inputs from ANI

The iconic R.K. Studios set in the eastern suburbs of Mumbai, Chembur is up for sale. The Studios was built by the late filmmaker-actor Raj Kapoor, the scion of the Kapoor family. Actress Kareena Kapoor Khan, her father Randhir Kapoor and uncle Rishi Kapoor have spoken about this huge "emotional loss". R.K. Studios was gutted in fire on September 16, 2017, which burnt the living memories of the late Raj Kapoor and films made under that banner.

Talking about the Studios's sale, Rishi Kapoor spoke to Mumbai Mirror about the strength they had to gather before taking this descision of letting go of their memories. "For a while, we did juggle with the idea of renovating the place with state-of-the-art technology. However, in reality it isn't always possible for a phoenix to rise from the ashes. We Kapoors are very emotional lot but then..."

"The investment in rebuilding the Studios would just not have yielded sufficient revenue to keep it going. Believe me, we had to take the larger picture into account and take a level-headed decision. Even before the fire, for years R. K. Studios had become a huge white elephant, toting up losses. The few bookings we would get from films, TV serials and ad shoots would expect free paR.K.ing space, air-conditioning and discounts," told Rishi Kapoor to the publication.

The report also states that the main reason behind selling the Studios is that it is located in Chembur and no longer favoured by the filmmakers, who mostly build their sets at Studios in Andheri and Goregaon's Film City.

"We brothers are strongly bonded. But who knows about our children and grand-children? What if differences crop up in the next generation? The Studios would only end up in litigation as so many industrial and textile estates have. There would be family differences and only lawyers would end up charging heavy sums of fee. Do you think my father would have liked to see his labour of love becoming the subject of courtroom proceedings?" elaborated Rishi Kapoor.

Reminiscing the memories of the famous R.K. omelette sandwich and ginger tea from the Studios, he said, "True, there are so many wonderful memories there. So much film history, but that would be like clutching on to straws in the wind."

When asked by the tabloid if there were any mixed feelings, he said "Not really. We had to place a stone on our hearts (Chhati pe patthar rakkhar, soch samajh kar decision liya hai)."

Films like Awara, Mera Naam Joker, Aa Ab Laut Chalein, Henna, Bobby, Boot Polish and many other films have been shot at the iconic R.K. Studios.

Also Read: Bollywood Celebs 'Heartbroken' Over Sale Of RK Studios

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The Feline Foundation, an NGO founded by Cat Cafe Studio, has some good news for Star Wars fans. It is hosting a Star Wars Quiz Night that gives you and your buddies a chance to win prizes.

You can flaunt your cosplaying skills and meet like-minded people. "It's an evening full of mystery in a galaxy far, far away. Better yet, it's also a fundraiser to support our efforts to provide medical treatment for stray cats in need," said an organiser. Additionally, all participants leave with assured gift coupons. Register now, and may the force be with you.

ON February 23, 6 pm to 8 pm
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"
The cast and crew of Malgudi Revisited

Malgudi - the famous fictitious place that RK Narayan created - has a certain sense of innocence that seems incongruous with the fast pace of life in a city like Mumbai. It offered the characters a chance to enjoy the simpler pleasures of life, be it a young boy following the journey of a paper boat down a nullah or chucking pebbles into a lake. But now, people here can also get a chance to spend a day in the laidback town, as Tantra Theatre Group brings it to life in a series of short plays called Malgudi Revisited.

In it, a narrator will take the audience around different locations, making them meet the locals who populated Narayan's much-loved book. The day begins early, at 8 am, with a visit to the school where Swami - one of Narayan's most iconic characters - studied with his friends. Their exploits were of an everyday nature. And yet, there were lessons embedded in the story that are relevant even today, such as how a wall of conflict can be broken down with just a bit of empathy and understanding.

The short play featuring the astrologer

Then, around noon, the audience will be taken to a chowk where they will meet "the talkative man", who narrates a story called Old Man of the Temple. It deals with how the talkative man had once encountered a ghost while driving by a roadside temple, who possessed the spirit of the young man at the wheel. Krishna Battar, the ghost, was the one who had built the temple. But his spirit refused to leave the area even after his death, since there was no one else to take care of the holy place. Eventually, the talkative man convinces Battar that it is important to let go of the past, no matter how tough that is. And in the end, it seems that Battar has understood this point, because the next time the man comes around to that temple, the ghost is nowhere to be seen.

Later in the afternoon, the scene shifts to a bank, where a watchman is sitting outside the gate. This watchman tells the audience about how, after retiring from his job, he had discovered a talent for making paper dolls. He had received a lot of love for the same, but one day, he got a registered letter from a bank whose manager had been one of the recipients of his dolls. Now, back at that time, receiving a registered letter invariably spelt financial doom for a person. So, the watchman cursed himself for giving the manager his gift, and the insane fear he felt about opening the letter finally made him lose his mind. The irony, though, is that the envelope had contained a sum of `100, which the manager had sent the watchman, elated with his gift.

Soumitra Acharya

After that, in the evening, the audience is taken around to a marketplace, where they meet an astrologer whose quick thinking saves him from being pummelled by a man he had once tried to kill in his village. And finally, the narrator notices that a light is still switched on in the bank, so he goes to find out if someone is still working there. In the process, the audience comes across the character who was the protagonist of a story called Forty Rupees a Month. This man had decided to quit his soul-crushing job to spend more time with his family. The sum of Rs 40 was not completely peanuts back then. But it still didn't allow him to take his wife and children out for movies, for instance, and so he decided to hang up his boots. But at the last moment before submitting his resignation letter, he found out that he had got a pay hike of `5, and that made him change his mind about packing up his working life and calling it a day.

Soumitra Acharya, who directed and wrote the short plays, and also essays the role of the narrator, reveals this plot structure to us. He also points out how relevant Narayan's stories continue to be. "For instance, the main character in Forty Rupees a Month might well be me, where instead of taking my family out for a movie, my ambition could be to take my parents on a foreign trip. So, like him, even I am stuck in my comfort zone, and refuse to get out of that rut come what may," he says, pointing out how some issues remain constant through the years, and some places like Malgudi - fictitious as it may be - have a sense of timelessness that persists through the ages.

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A 25-year-old woman allegedly committed suicide by hanging herself from the ceiling fan at her four-bedroom flat at Lokhandwala Township in Kandivli (East) on Tuesday afternoon.

According to police sources, the deceased has been identified as Bhavna Bora. On March 13, she had returned to Mumbai from Ireland, from where she was pursuing her Masters' degree and was staying with her parents and brothers in their four BHK apartment in Green Meadows Apartments in Lokhandwala Township.

Preliminary investigations revealed that she was upset after attending online classes for more than 16 to 18 hours a day.

When her father, a businessman by profession, and her brother entered her room to call her for lunch, they found the door locked from inside. “After Bora did not respond, they used a key to open the door only to find her body hanging from the ceiling fan and informed the police soon after,” the officer said.

“On the basis of primary information, we have registered an accidental death report (ADR) in the case and further investigation is underway,” said Senior Inspector Raju Kasbe from Samta Nagar police station.

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Locked down in a training college near Palampur, Olympic silver medallist shooter Vijay Kumar has started learning law online as part of his training for the DSP post he holds in Himachal Pradesh Police. Kumar, who won silver in the 25m rapid fire pistol event in 2012 Olympics, also needed to undergo physical training but that has been postponed in the wake of the nationwide lockdown enforced to contain the spread of COVID-19 pandemic.

"I have stopped my physical training but still taking online law classes. Physical training is not possible at the moment as we have to maintain social distancing. I an confined to the training college in Daroh. There is no connection with the outside world," the 34-year-old told PTI Bhasha. Kumar, however, said getting the daily essentials in the times of crisis is not an issue for him.

"There are people who are ensuring that essentials reach us in time," said the Hamirpur-resident, who was in the Indian Army for 15 years. Kumar urged people to follow government guidelines on lockdown. "I am amazed that some of the people are still not practising social distancing. The police is working round the clock to ensure lockdown guidelines are followed but some people are still not paying attention. It is the only way you can defeat this virus," he added. The global death toll from the pandemic has crossed one lakh.

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The World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) made a shocking decision on April 15 by releasing a huge list of some WWE superstars from past and present.

In a statement by WWE, they announced that they had released a total of 19 superstar wrestlers and a referee. WWE has come to terms on the release of Kurt Angle, Rusev (Miroslav Barnyashev), Zack Ryder (Matthew Cardona), Drake Maverick (James Curtin), Sarah Logan (Sarah Rowe), Curt Hawkins (Brian Myers), Karl Anderson (Chad Allegra) and Luke Gallows (Drew Hankinson) - collectively known as The O.C., Heath Slater (Heath Miller), Mike Kanellis (Mike Bennett), Maria Kanellis, Eric Young (Jeremy Fritz), Aiden English (Matthew Rehwoldt), Rowan (Joseph Ruud), No Way Jose (Levis Valenzuela), Mike Chioda, EC3 (Michael Hutter), Lio Rush (Lionel Green), Primo (Edwin Colon) and Epico (Orlando Colon Nieves). WWE also went on to wish them all the best.

Following their release from WWE, superstars took to Instagram to voice their emotions.

Take a look at some of their posts on social media. Kurt Angle -

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

Until next time. #yippeekiyay #itstrue

A post shared by Kurt Angle (@therealkurtangle) onApr 15, 2020 at 12:35pm PDT

Rusev -

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

Life is life. God is great. I’ll be alright

A post shared by Miroslav Barnyashev (@rusevig) onApr 15, 2020 at 1:59pm PDT

Sarah Logan -

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

With my whole heart. Thank you.

A post shared by Sarah Rowe (@sarahloganwwe) onApr 15, 2020 at 12:49pm PDT

Heath Slater -

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

Thank you all.

A post shared by Heath Miller “Slater” (@heathslater_xxii) onApr 15, 2020 at 2:19pm PDT

Luke Gallows -

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

The devil ain’t in the distance.....

A post shared by Luke Gallows (@luke_gallowswwe) onApr 15, 2020 at 8:49pm PDT

This has come as shocking news to all the WWE universe with more details awaited.

With the world pretty much devoid of sports events because of the Coronavirus pandmeic, boxing resumed in Nicaragua with a televised eight-fight card in front of a live, though sparse audience in Managua.

Promoter Rosendo Álvarez, a former two-time world champion, had dismissed the threat of the virus. "Here we don't fear the Coronavirus, and there is no quarantine. The three deaths [reported so far by the Ministry of Health] came from outside and nobody within the country has been contaminated," Álvarez said before the event on Saturday night. But his offer of free tickets appeared to fill only about a tenth of the 8,000 seats in the Alexis Argoello gym. Officials did not announce attendance figures. Alvarez said he signed up the 16 local boxers for the card because they needed to work. "Nicaragua is a poor country and the boxers have to eat. They can't stay shut up in their house," he said.

Meanwhile, in neighbouring or nearby countries the regional Central American Integration System has reported roughly 13,000 cases and about 500 deaths. The Nicaraguan baseball and soccer leagues are still playing, and Saturday's local sports pages included stories on a triathlon and school wrestling tournaments.

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Singer Sachet Tandon, voice behind the recreated versions of the 2009 AR Rahman hit "Masakali", has reacted to all the criticism coming the new version's way saying he respects audience opinion.

"It's Tanishk Bagchi's song and I was approached by the creators to sing it. I was glad to be part of the song and I am still happy that makers thought of me. But ultimate decision always lies in the hands of public. It's totally upto them whether to like a particular song or not, and I truely respect their opinion," said Sachet, about his version, titled "Masakali 2.0".

"Also, I don't think that any creator would intentionally try to distort an original song. Speaking of 'Masakali 2.0', I was not its creator. I just sang it and tried to give my best," Sachet told IANS.

The original "Masakali" was composed by Rahman, written by Prasoon Joshi, and sung by Mohit Chauhan for Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra's 2009 film "Delhi-6". It was picturised on the film's lead pair, Abhishek Bachchan and Sonam Kapoor. Although the film fared below expectation, the song has gone on to attain cult status.

Shortly after the release of "Masakali 2.0", both Rahman asnd Joshi expressed disappointment on social media, and were joined by a huge number of fans who agreed with them.

When asked Sachet about his views on the ongoing trend of recreations, he said: "In today's time, everything is being liked by audience. Some remakes have done amazingly well, some originals have become hits. Proper balance should be maintained."

Sachet, who gave Indian cinema a blockbuster love anthem, "Bekhayali" in collaboration with Parampara Thakur last year for the film "Kabir Singh", , has now come up with the melodious track "Bewafai", which has garnered over 20 million views on YouTube.

"It's a beautiful song (and I )loved giving voice to 'Bewafai'," Sachet said, sharing that he never gives heed to "likes" and "number of views".

"For me likes and number of views do no matter. What matters the most is the love of the audience. The best feeling is to hear compliments about your song. Jab log baat karte hain song ke baare me tab zyada acha lagta hai," Sachet signed off.

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As Bollywood's 'Queen,' Kangana Ranaut completed 14 years in the Indian film industry on Tuesday, her team shared a throwback picture from one of her early portfolios. The 33-year-old actor was shortlisted for an audition for her debut film 'Gangster' on the basis of the picture that her team shared on Twitter.

The priceless picture from the past featured a younger version of the actor with her signature curly locks and bold expressions.

#Trivia: On 14th anniversary of #KanganaRanaut ’s Bollywood debut #Gangster, here’s the image from her portfolio on basis of which @anuragbasuofficial selected her for an audition#Throwback #14YearsofKanganaRanaut #14YearsofGangster pic.twitter.com/CkDWat9TJv

— Team Kangana Ranaut (@KanganaTeam) April 28, 2020

Ranaut is seen wearing a white and brown coloured muffler in the picture.

"#Trivia: On 14th anniversary of #KanganaRanaut 's Bollywood debut #Gangster, here's the image from her portfolio on basis of which @anuragbasuofficial selected her for an audition #Throwback #14YearsofKanganaRanaut #14YearsofGangster," Kangana's team tweeted along with the picture.

Kangana Ranaut stepped into Bollywood at a very young age and began her career with her debut film 'Gangster' 14 years ago. Helmed by Anurag Basu, the romantic thriller featured Emraan Hashmi and Shiney Ahuja besides Kangana in the lead roles.

'Gangster' received great appreciation from critics as well as the audiences and also won Kangana the best debut award at Filmfare. Earlier in the day, the team of the 'Fashion' actor marked her 14th anniversary in Bollywood by preparing a video reel of her 14-year-long journey.

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Allow us to say this but if Hrithik Roshan had a staggering debut with Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai in 2000, Karishma Tanna made her debut with an equally successful piece of work- Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi. Ekta Kapoor more or less revolutionised the television industry by introducing a concept that was never heard of until it became a dying genre as times passed by.

Talking about Tanna, she didn't have it easy at all, and which actor has. In a chat with Pinkvilla, she candidly spoke about her audition for this iconic show and how it was bad, very bad. "My audition for Balaji was horrible (laughs). I'm generally a good student when learning lines, but in front of the camera, things go haywire. I have fumbled multiple times and it was a very 'ganda' (bad) audition."

She added, "But still, I got chosen. Ekta (Kapoor) ma'am does not see dialogues, she wants the actor to fit in the role, acting is then taken care of. So, I guess I fit the role and that is how I got it." And today, thanks to her success and even the social media sensation, she's known by one and all. She was also seen in Sanju in a special appearance.

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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.

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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.

 

 

 

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.

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Bigg Boss 13 has to be the most popular, memorable, and explosive season of all time. Love stories were born and so were stars. Two of them were Paras Chhabra and Mahira Sharma, and fans have combined their names to Pahira. And for all the Pahira fans, here's something fun. The duo shared a rather unique video where they both could be seen grooving to the Bole Chudiyan song and the actress reminded us of Kareena Kapoor Khan.

Taking to her Instagram account, this is what she wrote, "This is for you all #pahira fans." (sic) Well, this is truly a fantastic gift for all their fans, a fun-filled video that they can watch on loop. And Kareena would be happy after seeing this too.

Have a look right here:

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

This is for you all #pahira fans❤ï¸Â @parasvchhabrra #pahiraourpride

A post shared by Mahira Sharma (mau) 💎 (@officialmahirasharma) onMay 3, 2020 at 3:45pm PDT

Dancing is a part of her soul and makes her happy. This was confirmed by this caption on her next Instagram post. Have a look right here:

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

dancing part of my Soul, makes me Happy ♥ï¸Â

A post shared by Mahira Sharma (mau) 💎 (@officialmahirasharma) onMay 5, 2020 at 5:32am PDT

The lockdown is going to take a while to end, so all we have is their videos to enjoy and cherish! When is the next one coming?

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The Commissioner of the Philippines Bureau of Internal Revenue, Caesar Dulay, has said the country will introduce a more stringent audit program in 2019, to further improve the tax take.

With everything going digital amid lockdown due to Coronavirus outbreak, reality shows have found a new way to conduct auditions. Madhuri Dixit, Shashank Khaitan, and Tushar Kalia will return as judges for Dance Deewane 3.

For the show, the makers have begun virtual auditions. Madhuri Dixit kicked off her work by recording the promo for the show and asking the audience to participate by uploading their videos oh Viacom18's digital platform.

The final aspirants will be selected for the show once the film and TV bodies resume shoots. Arjun Bijlani will be returning as the show host. They'll kick off the new season after everything goes back to normal.

ALSO READ: Madhuri Dixit and Kajol reminisce about sharing screen space with late Rishi Kapoor

Branded Harry Potter buses that generally take fans to Warner Bros.' The Making of Harry Potter studio tour in the UK are now being used to transport key National Health Service (NHS) workers for free between hospitals battling coronavirus.

The buses have been provided by Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden and bus operator Golden Tours to transport key workers between West Herts Hospitals NHS Trust's three sites, reported Variety.

"Our workforce has been depleted due to sickness or self-isolation and so it's really important that those staff who are well but have transport issues can come back," Variety quoted Paul da Gama, chief people officer at West Herts Hospitals as saying.

"A special shuttle bus, which will have strict social distancing rules, is the perfect solution and we are so grateful to Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden and Golden Tours for making this happen. Our staff might not be travelling to exotic locations or seeing behind the scenes of a major movie, but they will be making magic happen in their own way," he added.

The free service runs its first journey just after 6 a.m. and its last drop-off at 10:40 p.m. (local time) between the Trust's three sites.

"We couldn't think of a better way to use the buses at this time. We are delighted to play a part in supporting our local NHS in its time of need," Variety quoted a spokesperson for Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden as saying.

The UK has reported more than 90,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus while the toll due to the coronavirus has surged past 12,000.

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Dame Judi Dench didn't like her look in Tom Hooper's recent film, "Cats", and says she was "battered and mangy".

Featuring Andrew Lloyd Weber's iconic music and team of dancers under the guidance of Tony-winning choreographer Andy Blankenbuehler, the film re-imagined the musical for a new generation. The film was criticised widely, and even labelled as the worst film of 2019 at the Razzies.

In an interview with British Vogue, Dench, who essayed the role of Old Deuteronomy in the film, opened up about her look, reports dailymail.co.uk.

"The cloak I was made to wear! Like five foxes f**king on my back," she said.

The film was shot on green screen, and Dench admitted that she wasn't aware of her look while shooting.

The Oscar-winning star was unhappy with the appearance in the film. She was hoping she would look elegant but instead felt that she resembled "a battered, mangy old cat. A great big orange bruiser".
"Cats" also stars James Corden, Taylor Swift, Idris Elba and Jennifer Hudson.

Opening up about her ideal role, Dench revealed that she wants to play someone "who everyone thinks is a kindly, saintly, beautified kind of person, and she's actually killing people".

After spending almost 60 years in the industry, Dench said she still has no plans to retire.

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Saudi Arabia is to abolish flogging as a form of punishment, according to a directive from the Kingdom's Supreme Court, adding that flogging will be replaced by imprisonment or fines.

The directive issued on Friday says this was an extension of human rights reforms brought by King Salman and his son, the country's de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, reports the BBC.

The last time that flogging in Saudi Arabia hit the headlines was in 2015 when blogger Raif Badawi was subjected to the punishment in public, reportedly after being convicted of cybercrime and insulting Islam.

He had been due to receive 1,000 lashes in weekly beatings but global outrage and reports that he nearly died put a stop to that part of his sentence.

This comes as campaigners have said that Saudi Arabia has one of the worst records for human rights in the world, with freedom of expression severely curtailed and critics of the government subject to what they say is arbitrary arrest, the BBC reported.

Earlier on Friday, the most prominent Saudi human rights campaigner died in jail after a stroke which fellow activists say was due to medical neglect by the authorities.

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Malaysia's Inland Revenue Board has denied allegations that it is more aggressively pursuing taxpayers affiliated with opposition political parties or their supporters.

On March 6, 2019, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued an Accounting Standards Update that is intended to help organizations align their accounting for production costs for films and episodic content produced for television and streaming services.

The average cost of inpatient care was found to be (Dollor) 26 in Burkina Faso and (Dollor) 134 in Cambodia, while the average cost of outpatient care was (Dollor) 13 per episode in Burkina Faso and (Dollor) 23 in Kenya.

Cyprus's Ministry of Finance says the island has signed a double tax agreement with Saudi Arabia with respect to taxes on income and for the prevention of tax evasion.

EU customs controls are not being applied effectively, an EU audit has found, with importers able to take advantage of loopholes to reduce or evade their duty liabilities.

A reversal of recent surges in corporate tax receipts could hit tax revenues and affect the Ireland's longer-term economic position, according to analysis released by the Irish Finance Department.

Protruding teeth in kids are more prone to injuries and long-term consequences. Therefore, regular dental check-ups, especially for kids, are necessary to protect their dental health.

New genetic screening platform using CRISPR technology for targeting thousands of genes in a massively-parallel fashion give an accurate and fast method

More than 30,000 people die each year from gun violence in the United States, a higher rate of death than any industrialized country in the world. Funding

Scientists have discovered new factors that influence children to develop type 2 diabetes in adult life. The findings have emerged from a unique study,

Rotana, one of the leading hotel management companies in the region with hotels across the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe and Turkey, announced that it will take over the management of DAMAC Towers Arjaan by Rotana in Riyadh on 15 March, with the property set to open in early April. The announcement follows a partnership signed between the company and DAMAC Hotels and Resorts last year. Located on King Fahd Road, the twin-tower architectural landmark offers a total of 448 luxurious rooms, suites and penthouses. The hotel features state-of-the-art amenities such as meeting and events facilities, a wellness and fitness centre, separate temperature-controlled swimming pools for men and women, and a well-equipped gymnasium, among others. The new property brings Rotana's total tally in the Kingdom to seven hotels and 2,087 keys with a strong development pipeline including Centro Corniche, Al Khobar and Dana Rayhaan by Rotana, Dammam. The two properties are also scheduled to open durin...

A list of developers and publishers currently working on Series X games. A full list of third-party developers and publishers currently developing next-gen games for Xbox Series X.

Company: International Trade Links
Qualification: Bachelor Of Technology (B.Tech/B.E), Bachelor of Science (B.Sc)
Experience: 8 to 15
location: Saudi Arabia
Ref: 24818613
Summary: DEVELOPMENT/ FORMULATION CHEMIST FOR ARABIAN MINERALS & CHEMICALS CO, SAUDI

The OECD Working Group on Bribery is concerned by a request, issued by the National Council of the Republic of Slovenia, to open a parliamentary inquiry into corruption prosecutions of a current member of the National Council. The National Assembly, the upper chamber of the Slovenian Parliament, launched the inquiry to investigate what have been alleged to be political motives of the prosecutors and judges involved in these cases.

Here are the photos of from the audio launch function of Vijay and Nayanthara's Bigil.

You've bought a new audio system for ones car or truck and you enjoy all of the great characteristics it offers, however mobile entertainment process isn't really comprehensive with out a pair of