Indian actress and producer Sezal Sharma returned to the prestigious Cannes Film Festival for the fourth time, marking yet another milestone in her remarkable journey in world cinema. Her latest film, Dustbin, directed by filmmaker Chandrakant Singh, was screened at the Bharat Pavilion as part of the 78th Cannes Film Festival.

Sezal Sharma has been a consistent presence at Cannes since 2016, each time attending not merely for the glamour of the red carpet, but with a film that reflects her dedication to storytelling and cinematic craft. From her debut appearance with Game Paisa Ladki in 2016, followed by Omaya in 2019, Parchaaiyaan in 2022, Being Alive in 2024, and now Dustbin in 2025 — every visit has been backed by a purpose: to present powerful narratives to a global audience.

Her latest venture Dustbin, a hard-hitting drama, delves into complex human emotions and societal realities. T he film explores themes of abandonment, redemption, and hope. The gripping screenplay and intense performances received a warm response from the audience and critics alike at the Bharat Pavilion screening.

Speaking at the launch, Sezal said, “Cannes has always been more than a red carpet moment for me. It’s a platform to share stories that matter. Dustbin is very close to my heart, and I am proud to bring it here with a meaningful purpose — to initiate conversations through cinema.”

With Dustbin, Sezal Sharma once again proves that her presence at Cannes is driven by her passion for impactful cinema — not glamour, but purpose. As she continues her journey, she stands as a testament to Indian talent and storytelling on the global stage.

In a proud moment for Indian cinema, veteran actors BOMAN IRANI and MAKARAND DESHPANDE unveiled the official poster of filmmaker PRASENJIT CHAKRABORTY’S  upcoming urban drama CHINDI PAKAD at the Indian Pavilion during the 78th Cannes Film Festival. The poster launch, hosted by SHRISTI CREATION FILM PRODUCTIONS in association with RITUPARNA SENGUPTA, drew widespread attention for its bold narrative and symbolic design.

CHINDI PAKAD explores the underbelly of urban life, tackling themes of addiction, survival, and the human spirit. The eye-catching poster features the title stylized with a green bottle replacing the letter “I” in CHINDI, a powerful visual metaphor for the film’s deeper message.

Speaking at the event, BOMAN IRANI  said, “It’s inspiring to see filmmakers push the envelope and bring untold stories to light. CHINDI PAKAD is one such bold cinematic journey, and I’m honored to be part of this launch at Cannes.”

MAKARAND DESHPANDE, known for his intense character portrayals, added, “The rawness and realism reflected in the poster instantly drew me in. Films like these give voice to the marginalized and offer a powerful mirror to society.”

Director and producer PRASENJIT CHAKRABORTY (PRIYAM) shared, “CHINDI PAKAD is not just a film—it’s a voice from the streets, a story that demands to be heard. Launching the poster at Cannes, with stalwarts like BOMAN IRANI and MAKARAND DESHPANDE, gives the film the global platform it deserves.”

Boman Irani ( R) unveils the Poster of ‘Chindi Pakad’.

In a dazzling celebration of strength, grace, and  empowerment, Neelima Sharma was crowned the winner of the Narifirst Beauty Pageant Season 2, held in Goa. The crown was presented to her by none other than Bollywood diva Malaika Arora, adding glamour to a night filled with inspiration and elegance. The grand event was choreographed by ace choreographer Sandip Soparrkar, whose direction brought energy and finesse to the stage.

Neelima Sharma Crowned as Winner of Narifirst Beauty Pageant season2 in Goa

Hailing from the vibrant state of Punjab and currently residing in Bangalore for the past 14 years, Neelima is much more than a beauty queen. She is a proud mother of two beautiful children, a loving wife, and a woman of substance whose journey is rooted in dedication and compassion.

Neelima Sharma Crowned by Malaika Arora as Winner of Narifirst Beauty Pageant season 2 in Goa

Neelima holds a degree in science and a post-graduate degree in Business Administration. After beginning her career at Lovely Professional University (LPU), she chose to devote herself to family life, becoming a full-time homemaker. Yet, her passion for service led her to join the Neonates Foundation of India, where she works as a volunteer helping fund NICU treatments for critically ill newborns from underserved communities. Till date, she has contributed to saving over 120 precious lives.

Her pageant journey began with a simple desire for new experiences, as she entered Season 1 of Jewel of India by Narifirst. But her return for Season 2 came with a mission—to prove that dreams have no expiration date.

“I want to tell every woman out there: no matter your age or profession, you can become whatever you dream of,” Neelima shared with a radiant smile after her crowning moment.

As she now sets her sights on a career in modeling and aims to become a source of inspiration for women across the country, Neelima Sharma’s victory is a celebration of perseverance, purpose, and power.

Her story is a shining example that with the right blend of heart and courage, one can rise to any occasion—wearing the crown not just on the head, but in spirit too.

Popular television actor Paras Madaan, known for his roles in ‘Laado 2’, ‘Qubool Hai’, and ‘Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Meiin’, has now joined the cast of Star Plus’ latest offering, ‘Pocket Mein Aasmaan’. The show, which airs at 6.30PM, promises to bring fresh narratives to the audience, and Paras plays a crucial role in the story.

Speaking about his character, Paras shares, “My character’s name is Raj Shekhar, and I am playing a very prominent primary role in the show. I have just started shooting, and I am already enjoying working with the team and the entire cast. It’s a wonderful experience to be part of such a well-crafted project.”

Paras Madaan, with his impressive body of work and strong screen presence, has consistently captivated audiences with his performances. Over the years, he has portrayed diverse characters across various genres, proving his versatility as an actor. His entry into Pocket Mein Aasmaan is expected to add more depth and excitement to the storyline.

The show itself explores the aspirations and struggles of individuals striving to achieve their dreams, making it a relatable and inspiring watch. With its engaging plot and stellar cast, Pocket Mein Aasmaan aims to strike a chord with the audience.

Paras further expresses his enthusiasm for the show, stating, “What excites me the most about this role is the depth of my character and the way it is written. The story has an emotional connect, and I believe the audience will relate to it. I am looking forward to bringing Raj Shekhar to life on screen and hope viewers will appreciate my performance.”

With Paras Madaan’s entry, Pocket Mein Aasmaan is set to become even more engaging. Fans are eagerly awaiting to see him in this new avatar, and his presence is sure to make the show even more compelling. Stay tuned to Star Plus at 6.30 PM to catch all the drama and excitement!

Organising sports events and at the same time participating in it and winning medals, is a difficult task. But, at 49+ Shravani Dhapre has been managing it well. A Senior Stenographer with BEST Undertaking, Mumbai, Shravani, who is also serving as the Jt. Hon.Secretary of Indo Master Players Table Tennis Association( IMPTTA) since its formation last year, has been working tirelessly, after her office hours, to organise events one after the other, for IMPTTA.

Last year, during all the four state ranking tournaments of IMPTTA, she shouldered multiple responsibilities with her Hon.Secretary Sameer Bhate and another Jt.Hon. Secretary Sachin D’Souza. But, she has always been calling it a team work of all committee members, for the successful conduct of all these tournaments. All this was possible under the leadership of Mr. Arwind Prabhoo, President of IMPTTA. Shravani doesn’t forget to mention the names of Naveen Verghese, Rakesh Nigudkar and others from PTKS, for their technical support.

During the recently concluded IMPTTA- National Masters’ TT championship at Andheri Sports Complex, Shravani camped there at the venue and worked silently towards smooth conduct of the event, from 7 am till late night on all six days. She was instrumental in registering many of the 758 players and 650 tournament entries from 23 states of India, before the start of this big event. Her personal contact with every women 40+players in India,  helped a lot.

In spite of her busy schedule in conduct of the championship, she also offered her services for Maharashtra Women’s team ( 39 & 49+ combined) and helped bag Gold medal and a trophy for the team, besides winning few more medals in individual events. She certainly deserves a special award and we are sure, her employers will also take note of her selfless services towards the promotion of sports, besides her achievements at the state, national and international level and offer her suitable reward.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The names of Five Films Unveiled are :
1.Recovery – Directed by MK Shivaaksh, this gripping drama delves into the struggles of redemption and second chances.
2.Papa Ki Pari – A heartwarming tale helmed by Aaryan Saxsena, this film explores the bond between a father and daughter.
3.Violence – Directed by Dudley, this action-packed thriller promises edge-of-the-seat entertainment.
4.Ketan Aur Bina – Bilal Qureshi brings an emotional drama based on true incidents  about love, relationships, and societal norms.
5.My Father – Pramod Pathak directs this emotional family drama that examines complex father-son dynamics.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Watch the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5lFKRKNL4sA  

Forthcoming Hindi film ‘Sangee’ produced by Rohan Bhosale, Arun Prabhudesai, Pintu Saw, Monica Prabhudesai, Prateek Thakur and Sumit Kulkarni, written by Thopte Vijaysinh Sarjerao and directed by Sumit Kulkarni, is all about friendship and its connection with money.

Starring Sharib Hashmi, Sanjay Bishnoi, Shyamraj Patil, Vidya Malavade and Gaurav More in lead roles, recently the poster of this film was released on social media. According to director Sumit Kulkarni, this film is an entertaining film for the entire family. “It is just not a film but an experience of life filled with laughter.” He says. The film is all set for release on 17th January 2025.

Amit Riyaan, an Engineering graduate in Polymer technology from Akola, Maharashtra; came to Mumbai to do his Masters in Mass Communication. But, after completing that, his growing interest in theatre, turned him as an actor in experimental plays of reputed directors. Watching his talent, he soon got recognition from some reputed film and web series makers . Amit has already won Late Dadasaheb Phalke Jury award for his performance in Marathi film ‘Manya- The Wonder Boy’. His roles in multi-starrer Marathi film ‘Rajwade & Sons’ and ‘Boyz-2’ were also well accepted.

After having worked in many web series, short films and web films like ‘Satya-2’, ‘Atkan Chatkan’, ‘Tandoor’ Amit is now playing lead role in forthcoming Suspense thriller film ‘The Rabbit House’ directed by Vaibhav Kulkarni. According to the director, this film is set against the scenic backdrop of Himachal Pradesh.  The film intricately weaves together elements of mystery and romance. The narrative skillfully navigates the complexities of relationships, mental health, and societal expectations. The film’s title, “The Rabbit House,” carries a symbolic weight, suggesting that the protagonist’s quest for freedom might mirror the elusive nature of a rabbit’s burrow.

The tagline of this film’s title also says, ‘Raaz bhi…Humraaz Bhi..’ . Moreover, the teaser of this film has also raised a lot of curiosity about this film, which is set for release in theatres on 20^th December 2024. But, all eyes on Amit Riyaan, who has a big fan following; and his best performance in this film along with other talented artistes is eagerly awaited.