2014-02-21

TELLING THE STORY OF THE BIRTH OF A NATION IS NEVER EASY: SHYAM BENEGAL

Mumbai:

21st

Feb, 2014: “Telling the story of the birth of a nation is never easy. Especially if that nation is as big and diverse as India,” says Shyam Benegal about ‘Samvidhaan – The Making of the Constitution of India’. “Our founding fathers took 2 years 11 months and 17 days to frame our constitution. The story of telling how they did this has nearly taken us that much time.”

Samvidaan is a 10 part mini-series produced by Rajya Sabha Television that will go on air beginning March 2 at 10 AM every Sunday. Written by Shama Zaidi and Atul Tiwari from a concept by Rajya Sabha Television, the series stars Sachin Khedekar as Dr B R Ambedkar, Neeraj Kabi as Mahatma Gandhi, Dalip Tahil as Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Utkarsh Majumdar as Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Rajendra Gupta as Dr Rajendra Prasad, Tom Alter as Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Rajeshwari as Rajkumari Amrit Kaur, Narendra Jha as Qaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Divya Dutta as Shrimati Purnima Benerji and Ila Arun as Hansa Mehta among 150 others in the series.

“India is the largest democracy in the world. It has more language and ethnic groups than any other nation. Despite the diversity and its many contradictions, India has travelled a great deal as a nation. It is the Constitution of India that created the framework for a strong, vibrant and progressive nation. The inspiring story of the making of our constitution has never been attempted before. At Rajya Sabha Television our endeavour is to create programs that document contemporary history of Independent India. ‘Samvidhaan’ (the making of the Constitution of India) was a natural progress in this journey,” says Gurdeep Singh Sappal, CEO Rajya Sabha Television who have produced the series.

After more than a year and a half of extensive research during which the writing also commenced, Samvidhaan went on the floor in August 2013. After over two months of shooting at Film City, Mumbai where the set of a replica of the Central Hall of Parliament was constructed. The action shifted to the Parliament House in New Delhi where for three weeks the crew shot extensively on its premises – for the first time that this has been allowed.

Mr. Benegal also said, “Samvidhaan is not really a 10 part series. It is a 10 hour long film. Since it was impossible to tell this story in the two or three hours duration of a cinema film, the format of a mini-series for television was the only alternative. The execution, the camera work, the look and feel of it is entirely cinematic.”

“Before independence we had a feudal, hierarchical and divisive society. To root that out by looking into the future to build a constitution that can last hundreds of years was I think the greatest achievement of these 300 odd men and women who worked on the constitution and Samvidhaan is their story,” said writer Shama Zaidi.

Co-writer Atul Tiwari who also essays the important role of Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant says, “It was a challenge to design the story of the designing of a nation. But we are all proud of the way this series has turned out. It is a landmark not only in Indian television, but is an important milestone in the recounting of democratic history of the world. This is a story that has the potential to inspire people around the world.”

Sachin Khedekar who plays Dr B R Ambedkar said, “It was a privilege to play the role of a man who is known as the father of the Constitution. But it was perhaps the most challenging role of my life. What I found most exciting is that what Ambedkar and others said in the constituent assembly, continues to be relevant till date. Essaying the role was hence a real delight.”

Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru is being played by Dalip Tahil, for the second time in his career. He said, “I had to loose weight for the role. I had to be like Nehru, think like Nehru. It was a challenge, but it has also been a big high to play a man who was an ideologist yet was practical enough to lay the foundation of a modern India. We talk of development today, but the man who not only showed India, but the world how to develop a nation quickly, was Pandit Nehru.”

Neeraj Kabi who plays Gandhi said, “It had always been a lifelong dream as an actor, to work with Shyam Benegal. That I got to do by essaying Mahatma Gandhi is the icing on the cake. It is fascinating to know that though Gandhi never even visited the Constituent Assembly, his gentle spirit guided the constitution. His greatest contribution was that he insisted on having Ambedkar in the constituent assembly.”

A special 23 minute curtain raiser was shown to the President, Vice President, Prime Minister and the members of both houses of the Parliament today. This special capsule was simultaneously shown on Rajya Sabha TV today as members of both houses watched Shyam Benegal’s TV venture after 25 years.

CREW OF SAMVIDHAAN:

Director

SHYAM BENEGAL

Executive Producer

GURDEEP SINGH SAPPAL

Associate Director

DAYAL NIHALANI

Director of Photography

AKASHDEEP PANDEY

Music

SHANTANU MOITRA

Script & Dialogue

SHAMA ZAIDI

ATUL TIWARI

Costume

Pia Benegal

Art Directors

CHETAN PATHAK

LEELA CHANDA

Editor

ASEEM SINHA

CAST OF SAMVIDHAAN:

NEERAJ KABI as Mahatma Gandhi

DALIP TAHILRAMANI as Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru

SACHIN KHEDEKAR as Dr B R Ambedkar

NARENDRA N JHA as Qaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah

UTKARSH MAZUMDAR as Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

RAJENDRA GUPTA as Dr Rajendra Prasad

RAJESHWARI SACHDEV as Rajkumari Amrit Kaur

TOM ALTER as Maulana Abul Kalam Azad

KENNY DESAI as Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee

DIVYA DUTTA as Srimati Purnima Banerji

DEEPIKA AMIN as Srimati Renuka Ray

K K RAINA as Dr K M Munshi

RAJIT KAPUR as Shri Alladi Krishnaswami Ayyar

ILA ARUN as Srimati Hansa Mehta

PARESH GANATRA as Prof K T Shah

HIMANI SHIVPURI as Begum Aijaz Rasul

Anchor: SWARA BHASKAR

–=======================================================================

W song recording

The song recording of Legacy Films Productions’ ‘W’ directed by Tarun Madan Chopra was held at Yashraj Studios, Andheri (West). Daboo Malik who has turned writer with the film and has also given music, singers Neha Bhasin and Armaan Malik, actor Lezlie Tripathy, producer SC Sehgal were present along with director Tarun.

======================================================================

The scintillating special song from ‘Dishkiyaoon’, Tu Mere Type Ka Nahi Hai, is now LIVE. Shilpa Shetty features in the song with Harman Baweja, which was launched amidst fanfare at the plush night club ‘Royalty’ in Mumbai. It can be viewed at: http://bit.ly/TuMereTypeKaNahiHai-Song.

Krupa Thakker

EveryMedia Technologies

+91-9920-822-218

About us:

Everymedia is a full-service digital and mobile marketing company and

consummate communication strategists. We are leaders in delivering end to end digital marketing campaigns and pioneers in design, development and technology. We work across brands, media owners, advertisers, publishers, aggregators, content providers and operators. We use online and mobile solutions to offer reach and local targeting along with an understanding of user groups. We are borderline film buffs and engage ‘tribes’ using social media. Unpaid media, online reputation management tools and engagement models. we also do brand sponsorships and co-branding using digital properties and offer unique merchandising for brand promotion.

=================================================================

First Look of Maneesh Sharma’s

“DUM LAGA KE HAISHA”

Prem & Sandhya on location

Maneesh Sharma’s first independent production venture under the Yash Raj Films banner, DUM LAGA KE HAISHA, is directed by Sharat Katariya and stars the extremely talented Ayushmann Khurrana and YRF’s new find from one of its own – debutant Bhumi Pednekar.

On the perfect casting of Bhumi, Maneesh Sharma who has a winning streak of working with successful debutants Ranveer Singh, Anushka Sharma, Parineeti Chopra and Vaani Kapoor says, “For the films I have directed, Bhumi has been working closely in the casting process as an integral part of YRF’s Casting Division and many a times doubled as an actor to conduct auditions with the prospective talent. In the process I saw her enacting various roles and it was obvious what a brilliant talent she is!”

DUM LAGA KE HAISHA revolves around the life of a small town couple – Prem and Sandhya. From overcoming his fear of the English language to dealing with an overbearing father, Prem (Ayushmann Khurrana) discovers that his oversized and mismatched wife, Sandhya (Bhumi Pednekar), who he thought was a spanner in his business and life, will actually lead him to something quite cool.

DUM LAGA KE HAISHA is currently under production and is slated for a 2014 release.

====================================================================================

~ He’s back with more vehemence, fraud, and of course, cannibalism ~

~Starring Mads Mikkelsen, Hugh Dancy and Laurence Fishburne, Hannibal flips the tables as it heads into season 2~

India, March 2014: Be ready to embrace the riveting cannibalistic evil that will come alive on television like never before! The chilling & hugely popular series, Hannibal is all set to return with a tasty turn on AXN on 1st March 2014. The dark and haunting series returns for its second season, a year later, with shocking revelations and an addictive psychological game that will flame your appetite and increase your thirst for the sinister and deadly.

After an epic season 1, where the viewer’s got a bite of Dr Hannibal Lecter’s world and the transformation of Will Graham to a complex and captivating character, the latest season emphasizes on the understated sinful nature of the show’s title character. The new season retains the diabolically effective serial killer characteristics and nerve wrecking themes making this outlandish psychosomatic thriller a must watch, if you have the stomach for it.

Fannibals, be ready to embrace the madness of Dr. Hannibal Lecter yet again as Hannibal returns for a second season on AXN at 9 PM on March 1st 2014!

About AXN

Backed by the powerhouse of Sony Pictures Entertainment, AXN is the first 24 hour cable and satellite TV channel in Asia exclusively dedicated to action and adventure programming. Launched in 1998 in India, it is a leading English general entertainment destination among upscale, affluent adults aged 18-44. The channel delivers four distinctive types of programming which includes the latest global hit series, action movie blockbusters, latest seasons of adventure-reality and lifestyle sports programs and innovative AXN original productions. The channel not only enjoys a high penetration and viewership in the metros, but is also popular in tier II and tier III cities and reaching 110 million viewers in India yearly. As promised by the brand, AXN brings to its viewers intelligent, edgy, exciting, unpredictable, high energy and an unparalleled entertainment experience.

AXN India is wholly owned by Sony Pictures Entertainment, and managed by SPE Networks – Asia.

Visit www.axn-india.com for more information.

Regards,

Aayushi

============================================================================

92.7 BIG FM celebrates host Annu Kapoor’s Birthday!

One of 92.7 BIG FM’s most loved hosts – Annu Kapoor – turned 58 on 20th February this year! This date was also a special occasion for him as ‘Suhaana Safar with Annu Kapoor’ recently crossed 150 successful episodes and has been the No.1 show across several stations of 92.7 BIG FM!

The seasoned host celebrated his birthday at 92.7 BIG FM studio today. The team gave him a surprise by inviting his close friends and family for a cake cutting ceremony. The overwhelmed host humbly thanked everyone for the celebration and shared a few pleasant moments with all those who were present. We wish Annu-ji a very happy birthday and many many more successful years to come!

====================================================================

FolksVagn join hands with Hindustan Times for Green Gurgaon Campaign!

New Delhi: FolksVagn, a dynamic and India’s largest car-pooling service for corporates has collaborated with Hindustan Times’ ‘Green Gurgaon’ campaign as their car-pooling partner. The campaign which started in mid of January is all about spreading the green message among the corporates. One of the components of the campaign is following the idea of car-pooling to save fuel, pollution, traffic and hence, saving the environment.

Being their car-pooling partners, FolksVagn promotes the idea of going green in Delhi/NCR. Car-pooling to be rightly practised in India needs a formal system where the whole community can be connected through a single platform, keeping in mind each individual’s needs and their flexibility. FolksVagn provides that convenient option for the corporates that eases their lives. Through the Green Gurgaon campaign, FolksVagn has successfully been able to influence hundreds of people to register, who have already started using their service. The system is thereby playing a big role towards serving the nature by effectively reducing the traffic, saving parking spaces, reducing fuel cost, and stress for passengers and most importantly increasing safety for passengers. It is a much safer, convenient and economical option

FolksVagn has already added thousands of members to its database in the first 2-3 quarters, with hundreds of users using the system daily. The system has successfully managed to associate with huge corporates and plan to actively participate in green campaigns in many other corporate hubs, where there are more than 50,000 cars on a daily basis, and where their service can hugely contributing in reducing the traffic by around 75%.

About FolksVagn: Launched on 13th November 2012, FolksVagn is a dynamic ‘car-pooling system’ that helps one share their travel with friends, colleagues or other like-minded people. Each user is verified and there is an automated payment system from the passenger to driver. FolksVagn allows flexibility of time and co-travellers, and basically supports two kinds of users- passengers and drivers. One can also connect with FolksVagn on Web, Apps and SMS.

=================================================================================

Priyanka Chopra – New Box Office Valentine.

The fact that Gunday opened to an approximate collection of over 44 crore at the box office on its opening weekend,only goes to prove that Priyanka Chopra – touted the current generation’s “female superstar” has always been lucky at the box office and to top that has walked away with rave reviews , a dynamite combo that very few can boast off as the 500-crore actress enjoys an envious commercial success ratio and critical acclaim.

The film created magic at the B/O as it hit theaters across the nation last Friday, giving audiences a special Valentine’s treat – Keeping to the lucky tradition that whenever 2 heroes have fought over Priyanka on-screen it has always spelled success at the box office be it Mujhse Shaadi Karogi,Dostana and the recent Gunday.

All praise for his co-star says Ranveer Singh, “What I love about Priyanka is that she makes everyone’s job easy,She is actor-friendly, director-friendly, and producer-friendly. She makes everyone’s task easier by tapping-in her experience. She is a one-take artist”.

Adds Arjun Kapoor, “Priyanka is very aptly cast for the film. I don’t know how to explain this but both of us, Ranveer Singh and I, were boys without her and we became men when we shared screen space with her. That’s a very important quality for a woman to have. She makes us feel like men.”

=======================================================================

A lot has been said and written about the war between the two theater releases, Gulabi Gang and Gulaab Gang.

While Gulabi Gang is a documentary based on the life of Sampat Pal Devi and the fiery woman of her gang who fight against gender violence, caste oppression and widespread corruption in Bundelkhand, Gulaab Gang is heard to be a work of fiction.

That is not it; ironically, we see two different Khan Gangs supporting one project each in some way.

On one side we have, Mushtaq Sheikh from Shah Rukh Khan’s gang who is the associate producer of Gulaab Gang supporting the film.

On the other side, we have Aamir Khan’s wife, Kiran Rao, who hosted a special screening of the documentary, Gulabi Gang for her friends where she was also heard saying how it is one of the most profound documents of our society today.

Gulabi Gang releases on 21st February 2014 while Gulaab Gang comes some weeks later.

======================================================================

Veena Malik Khan Plans her White wedding on a Cruise.

Veena Khan Khattak & Asad Bashir Khan Khattak’s much awaited White Wedding is finally locked on 23rd Feb 2014, on Sunday. It will take place, on one of the world’s most luxurious cruise of USA, Named SPIRIT OF WASHINGTON.

Details about Spirit of Washington

The Spirit of Washington was built in 2000 and is 161 feet long. It is a four level yacht-style vessel with three enclosed decks and a new modern rooftop lounge. The ship is Coast Guard regulated to hold 500 passengers. The three interior decks are named after US Presidents, Lincoln deck is the bottom deck, Jefferson deck is the middle deck, and Washington deck is the top deck.

The ship sails out of Southwest Washington DC at 6th and Water Streets. It offers two and three hour dining cruises. Please see attached cruise route information. The Food is prepared fresh in the galley for each cruise. Please see attached menu.

Sample Odyssey Plated Lunch Menu

First Course

Classic Caesar Freshly cut Romaine Hearts, Herb Croutons, Shaved Parmesan Cheese and finished with our house Caesar Dressing

Main Course

Roasted Chicken Pan-roasted Chicken Breast infused with our traditional Moroccan Chermoula Seasoning and topped with our Chefs inspired Harissa sauce served with a Citrus Couscous and Fresh Bok ChoyGrilled Salmon Fresh Grilled Salmon topped with a Ragout of Braised Cherry Tomatoes and Black Olives served with Sautéed SpinachSeafood Ravioli Gratinee Jumbo Ravioli filled with Imported Ricotta, Parmesan and Fontina cheeses topped with a Seared Jumbo Sea Scallop and Gulf Shrimp atop a rustic Pomodoro SauceShort Ribs Grilled and Slow Cooked Boneless Beef Short Ribs with Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes, Glazed Baby Carrots.Vegetable Napoleon Layered Portobello Mushroom, Roasted Red Peppers, Zucchini, Eggplant, Summer Squash and Tofu grilled atop basil marinara

Desserts

Wedding Cake

Sweet Dessert Duo

Chocolate Mousse Truffle Moist layers of rich chocolate mousse and cake, enrobed in a decadent chocolate ganache, topped with a drizzle of white chocolateVanilla Bean Cheesecake Rich New York-Style cheesecake topped with layers of moist cake, vanilla bean mousse and a white chocolate ganache, finished with a caramel drizzle

Freshly baked breads and butter offered.

=========================================================================

Press Release

Celebrity Management and Films Marketing Company ‘Approach Entertainment’ to Offer Integrated Marketing Solutions to Low Budget and Off Beat Bollywood Films Producers

Mumbai: Leading & award winning Films Marketing and Celebrity Management solutions company in India, Approach Entertainment (www.approachentertainment.com ) which has forayed into growing Bollywood Films Marketing space last year, will be offering Integrated Marketing solutions to Low budget and Off Beat Films Makers and producers in India. The fast growing Films Marketing and Celebrity Management company in India is already having offices and business operations in Mumbai, New Delhi, Gurgaon, Dehradun, Chandigarh and Lucknow apart from International representation in Dubai, USA and UK.

Approach Entertainment is India’s fast growing Films Marketing and Celebrity Management Solutions Company with verticals in Bollywood Celebrity Management, Sports Celebrity Management, TV Celebrities Management and Celebrity Brand Endorsements solutions and Films Marketing. The company’s films marketing division will be offering expertise based services in Bollywood Films Marketing, Film distribution, Films PR, Films Events, In Film Advertising and Promotions, Films Social Media and Digital Marketing, Brand Tie Ups with Films, Media Partnership Management, Buzz Creation for Films, Live Events to Promote Films, International and Foreign tours to Promote Films, Celebrity Tie Ups, Celebrity and Star Cast tours to Promote Films, Films Publicity management, Events management services for Films Productions companies, Films Promos, Tie Ups and Cross Promotions with Brands, Tie Ups with Reality Programs on Television and other innovative strategies to connect to the audience. The films marketing company in India will offer innovative solutions to Bollywood Films producers to reach out to the audience and helping the producers in effective distribution.

The fast growing Films Marketing and Celebrity management company in India is also planning to expand to overseas markets like Dubai, Gulf countries, London in U.K, New York in USA, Malaysia, Mauritius and other international destinations where there is a sizeable population of Indians. The company will be organizing Live events and bollywood shows to promote bollywood films in cities like Dubai, London, New York and other middle east countries. The company will be taking innovative initiatives to promote bollywood films in market and will be supporting the producers in distribution of the film in India and overseas. The films marketing company has already worked with 30 bollywood films in the past and the company will consolidate its position in Bollywood through its integrated service offering in Celebrity Management, Line Productions, Films Marketing, Events and Entertainment solutions

Commenting on the bollywood Films Marketing initiative, Sonu Tyagi, CEO, Approach Entertainment, said “The corporate has penetrated in Films distribution and Marketing and it has become increasingly difficult for an independent film producer to release the film. There are thousands of bollywood films waiting for the release despite having good content. Approach Entertainment will offer complete integrated solutions for these producers to release the film theatrically and then optimizing its revenues through satellite rights, music, digital, home video and other streams. The films marketing company will offer end to end solutions in Films Marketing, PR, Digital Promotions, Live Events, TV Promos and other things. The films and movie marketing company will work with producers from the script to the release. The company is also setting up consultancy services for new producers in bollywood as they find it difficult to release their first film.” He further added Approach Entertainment will also get into co productions and distribution of the film at a later stage.

Approach Entertainment is being headed by advertising and media professional Sonu Tyagi who has been working in the bollywood film industry as executive producer, writer and director. He had brief stint in Advertising and Journalism before launching his own media and communications company. He is also producing a bollywood film which is in pre production stage now and will be going on floor in May, 2014. The company is already having creative director on board and work on the script is going on.

Approach Entertainment is a Full fledged Celebrity Management, Films Marketing, Line Productions and Entertainment Marketing Solutions Company. The fast growing celebrity management agency in India has also forayed in Advertising Films productions and have been working with International directors for Ad Films, Viral Films, Branded Content and Films. Approach Entertainment is an Integrated Entertainment Marketing company with specialized verticals in Celebrity Management, Films Marketing, Films Productions, Line Productions and Events. The line productions division of the company offers solutions for Line Productions for Bollywood Films, Line Productions for Hollywood Films in India, Line Productions for Advertising Films, Line Productions for Overseas shoots and international projects.

Contact for More Info:

Shraddha Varadkar at Approach Entertainment

Mumbai: 771004577

Email: shraddha.varadkar@approachentertainment.com

Visit us at www.approachentertainment.com and www.approachentertainment.net

Thanks and Regards

Sonu Tyagi.

Approach Entertainment

===============================================================================================

Dishkiyaoon’s red-hot item number ‘Tu Mere Type Ka Nahi Hai’, LIVE on Eros Now

Mumbai, 20th February, 2014: ‘Dishkiyaoon’s item number featuring Shilpa Shetty and Harman Baweja has been launched and is available exclusively for 24 hours on Eros Now. The song, ‘Tu mere type ka nahin hai’, reveals Shilpa Shetty, looking drop dead gorgeous, matching steps with the fabulous dancer, Harman.

The song (audio and video) can be checked out on the Eros Now links below:

VIDEO: http://erosnow.com/#!/music/watch/1005347/dishkiyaoon/6126127/tu-mere-type-ka-nahi-hai

AUDIO: http://erosnow.com/#!/music/album/1005347/dishkiyaoon

The video is set in the 70s and has a retro feel to it. It has Harman looking sharp in a suit and Shilpa sizzling on the screen. Choreographed by Bosco-Caesar, the upbeat song has been sung by Sneha Khanwalkar and the lyrics of the song have been penned by director Sanamjit Talwar. The music of the film has been composed by Sneha Khanwalkar and the 18-year old talented debutante Palash Muchhal. Sneha Khanwalkar is a 2012 Filmfare Award Nominee who has composed unforgettable music for ‘Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye!’ and ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’ (both parts). Co-Produced by Eros Now and Shilpa Shetty, ‘Dishkiyaoon’ is all set to release on 28th March, 2014.

Eros Now is the ultimate destination for Indian entertainment offering thousands of movies, music videos and audio tracks on demand. Instantly access online, on tablets and on mobiles through the Eros Now app available for Apple, Android & Amazon devices. Movie & music lovers now have easy & straight-forward access to high quality entertainment in Hindi, Punjabi & Tamil, all ad-free. Customers can sign up for free using their email address or phone number and enjoy movies, music videos and audio tracks for free. All you have to do is logon to www.erosnow.com or download the app to enter the world of uninterrupted entertainment – anytime, anywhere!

===========================================================================

Maneesh Sharma of Band Baaja Bharat and Shuddh Desi Romance fame is known to give break to Ranveer Singh, Parineeti Chopra and Vaani Kapoor.

It had created a lot of flutter when he had identified talent from with in YRF office and given break to Parineeti. Once again he is set to do the same.

He is all set to give a break to Bhumi Pednekar who use to work in the casting department of YRF.

While in previous instances he was a director this time he is acting as a producer for YRF.

Bhumi was handling the television casting of YRF and later became an associate in casting with Shanoo Sharma.

When asked what she really wants to do, she would say she wanted to direct a film and maybe work under Shimit Amin as an assistant director.

YRF team was looking for girls all over the country when they had fountain of talent right in the casting office…

Deep down inside Bhumi always wanted to act…

She started working madly towards a goal and deadlines that were set for her and also started grooming herself.

The team of YRF told her that they needed her to do a mock test for other actors that lived overseas so that we could send that link to them if they needed a brief!

She performed and they loved it…

However they still wanted to test more girls and see if there was anyone out there who was better than her for this particular part. But she fit the bill completely..

And that’s how she got the part!!!!

Maneesh says, “Once, when she was in the midst of an audition, through the door which was slightly open I saw her conduct the audition and that is when I knew she can act”

=========================================================================

Garnier Men continues to groom Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2014

Mumbai, 20 February 2014: Rajasthan Royals today announced Garnier Men as their Official Grooming Partner for the third consecutive IPL season. Garnier Men, a leading brand in the skin-care and grooming space for men will also find a presence on the striking uniforms, match-day caps and helmets of the Rajasthan Royals team. This is the first time the brand will be seen on the Rajasthan Royals uniforms after having been an on-ground partner for the last two seasons. This represents a progression in the association between the two brands and comes on the back of a wonderful 2013 for the team in Royal Blue as they reached the semi-finals of the IPL and the finals of the Champions League T20.

Garnier Men pays attention to every detail in understanding the grooming needs of the players who play in extremely hot and humid conditions during the IPL. The brand offers a wide range of skincare products that are extremely relevant to the players with effective solutions and high quality standards. As part of its promotions strategy, Garnier Men along with Rajasthan Royals will initiate a slew of online and on-ground activities. These will involve giving a chance to fans to meet their favourite Rajasthan Royals team members and also get some helpful grooming tips from Garnier Men.

Rupika Raman, General Manager at Garnier India, spoke about this partnership and said, “Garnier Men is proud to associate with the Rajasthan Royals as the uniform and grooming sponsors for the new exciting season of IPL 2014. Our association with the team has successfully grown over the years. We’re happy to announce that this year through a strong digital and marketing outreach with the Rajasthan Royals, we aim to reach out to the cricket loving Garnier Men who believe in the power of grooming. We would like to offer them our range of products that will suit their skin in all weather conditions and leave them feeling fresh all day.”

Commenting on the association, Raghu Iyer, CEO, Rajasthan Royals, said, “We are delighted to have Garnier Men, a leading and popular brand in the skin care segment, continue their association with us for another exciting season of the IPL. For IPL 2014, Garnier Men has elevated themselves to the position of a uniform sponsor from an on-ground partner. This lays testament to Garnier Men’s belief in our brand values and organization ethos. We also take this opportunity to express our gratitude for their constant support rendered over the years.”

Garnier Men offers an extensive product range of face washes, moisturizers and deodorants that offer immediate solutions to issues like skin tanning, oily skin, dark spots, body sweat and odour. The tournament will see players travelling to different cities as a result of which their skin would be exposed to heat, dust and harmful weather conditions. Garnier Men will cater to each of their needs and help them stay fresh throughout the tournament.

About Rajasthan Royals

Epitomising the elegance, style, valour and royalty of the states of Rajasthan and Gujarat, Rajasthan Royals is a Jaipur based Indian Premier League team loved by fans across the world. A winner of the inaugural IPL in 2008, the team is governed by indomitable qualities of strength, fighting prowess and courage in the face of tough opposition.

The Royals have been consistent on the field with honours in 2008 and 2013 led by legends of cricket and great captains, Shane Warne and Rahul Dravid, respectively. 2013 was a remarkable year for Rajasthan Royals as the team played outstandingly well to reach the IPL playoffs. Earning a chance to play in the prestigious Champions League T20, Royals went on to reach the finals of the world famous tournament.

The royal blue and gold emblem of Rajasthan Royals reflects the rich history of the region and their promising future. The team’s anthem ‘Halla Bol’ and mascot ‘Moochu Singh’ capture the energy, enthusiasm and never-say-die attitude of the team.

Ever since its inception, the Royals brand has been at the forefront in terms of nurturing and promoting new talent in India. With a major presence on social media platforms, Royals offer fans a unique digital experience taking them to the heart of all the action. While the team’s YouTube channel happens to be the most watched amongst all IPL teams, the Facebook page and Twitter handle enjoy a growing number of supporters and followers. The official website based fan zone gives fans the freedom to express themselves through content, videos, images, forums or polls, all driven by the fans themselves. These aspects have made Rajasthan Royals the most loved team and enabled to it emerge as the first global sporting brand from India.

For the latest photos, videos and updates please visit us at:

http://www.rajasthanroyals.com | http://www.youtube.com/RajasthanRoyals

http://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals | https://www.facebook.com/RajasthanRoyals

====================================================================

Ranbir’s special gesture for Highway

In a first of a kind friendly gesture, Ranbir Kapoor chatted up Imtiaz Ali and Alia Bhatt on their new film Highway for the TV news channel Times Now. The show airs on 20th Feb at 11.30pm exclusively on Times Now. Ranbir, of course, played the title role in Imtiaz’s last film Rockstar and is also slated to play the lead in his next.

Ranbir had seen an early cut of Highway and loved the film so much that he didn’t want to lose an opportunity to talk about the movie with Imtiaz and the leading lady Alia. The Bollywood superstar landed up in Filmcity where the three of them moved around in the truck from the film and chatted about Highway.

Here’s a link to the three minute video tease of the Highway Special Show- http://www.timesnow.tv/Rabir-hosts-a-chat-with-Imtiaz–Alia/videoshow/4448485.cms

Highway, produced by Window Seat Films and presented by Sajid Nadiadwala, will be released worldwide by UTV Motion Pictures on February 21. The music of the film is available on T-Series.

Highway releases worldwide on 21st February, 2014

===========================================================================

Highlights:

· Kicking off the show in a red version of the huge accessory, the “Happy” crooner Pharrell Williams hit the stage for a series of rock-star performances during the pre-game show, bringing out Nelly, Busta Rhymes, Snoop Dogg and Diddy

· The superstar singer-producer, who later took his hat off, started off the night with one of his first hits, “Frontin,” followed by his Neptunes collaboration with Nelly, “Hot in Herre,” and then “I Just Wanna Love U (Give It 2 Me),” among many other songs

· Drake, Chris Tucker and more stars also hit the NBA All-star game

· A long set by Pharrell and Friends which included an introduction of the All-Stars

· Canadian singer Serena Ryder performed a powerful rendition of “O Canada,” followed by bluesman Gary Clark Jr.’s Hendrixian guitar performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner”

=================================================================

Koffee at 11 for the first time

First time Karan Johars koffee with Karan will be aired at 11pm, which will see Freida Pinto and Nargis Fakhri. The content apparently was too adult for the prime time viewing was the channels view.

The actresses where very frank on the chat show and answered KJo’s ‘ sex queries’

The came up with facts like Nargis said that in Spanish, her name meant ‘butt cheeks’ while Freida said that in Brazilian or Portuguese, Pinto meant ‘penis’.This is the boldest episode as the two girls were no-holds-barred

The repeats of the show are scheduled late night but as the show itself will be aired at night, the repeats which will be aired at the normal hours and will be censored as per television standards and should be of shorter duration..

==========================================================

Prime Focus stylizes ‘Gunday’ with digital intermediate services

Mumbai, 20 February, 2014 – Prime Focus is proud to announce its collaboration with Director Ali Abbas Zafar and Producer Aditya Chopra on the digital intermediate services of Gunday. The film features Ranveer Singh and Arjun Kapoor in the lead roles, while Priyanka Chopra and Irrfan Khan appear in supporting roles. Based in Calcutta (now known as Kolkata) during its most unsettled times in the 1970s, the film deals with the inseparable life of Bikram and Bala.

“The DI team of Prime Focus worked very closely with the film’s principals to achieve the stylized look, the DoP Aseem Mishra and Director Ali Abbas Zafar envisioned for the movie. It was very important for the team to understand the storyline of the film and design the sequences accordingly. As the movie is based on 1970 era, so our main effort was focused on creating a look that compliments the storyline of the film whilst bringing out the realism of the visuals. All in all, it was a very challenging film and, as always, it was a splendid experience.” said Paresh Acharya, Vice- President, DI and VFX (India).

“The idea was to enhance the colors in such a way that the DI subtly blends with the storyline of the movie and is not conspicuous.” said Sr. Colorist, S. Manoj C.P.K Verma. “Overall aspect of the movie required to be treated with a warm look bringing out the 1970s feel; keeping in mind the skin tone of the characters. Apart from that, the look of the film also varied as per the narrative. While the first part of the movie portrayed Bikram and Bala’s childhood which required a dark and desaturated look, after which the look changed as per the mood and storyline of the movie.”

Since the movie revolves around the city Calcutta, it was very important to bring about the authenticity of the premise of the location around which the story revolved. The movie has some catchy songs, and each of them was treated uniquely to correspond perfectly well with the themes of the song. For instance, the romantic song between Priyanka and Ranveer ‘Jiya’ required a glossy look to set the visuals right of a dreamy song.

Talking about the overall experience, S. Manoj C.P.K Verma, Sr. Colorist said, “It was an absolute pleasure to work with DoP Aseem Mishra again on Gunday, after Ek Tha Tiger in 2012. He has brilliantly captured every mood and emotion of the main characters- Bikram and Bala in the movie, which helped us to grade the movie better. Also it was a delight to work with Director Ali Abbas Zafar, as his clear visualization about the style, look and feel of the movie enabled us to not only match up to their expectations but deliver the movie much in advance. ”

-ENDS-

About Prime Focus World

Prime Focus World (PFW) is the creative services business of Prime Focus, the global leader in media and entertainment industry services. PFW employs over 3,500 professionals in 19 facilities across 3 continents and 4 time zones. We provide visual effects, stereo 3D conversion and animation services to the Film, Broadcast, Advertising and Media industries. Prime Focus World is behind View-D™ (stereoscopic 2D to 3D conversion) relied on by most Hollywood producers. Leveraging our Global Digital Pipeline and pioneering delivery model WorldSourcing® we partner content creators at every stage of the process ensuring work flow efficiencies, cost optimization and creative enablement.

PFW has brought its expertise to many wide release Hollywood films recently including The Great Gatsby, World War Z and White House Down as well as previously released Men in Black 3, Star Wars: Episode One – The Phantom Menace, Dredd 3D, Total Recall, Tim Burton’s Frankenweenie, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2, Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, Resident Evil: Retribution, Green Lantern, Immortals, Wrath of the Titans, Mirror Mirror, Transformers: Dark of the Moon and Avatar.

Prime Focus is listed on the BSE and NSE of India and has operations in Los Angeles, New York, Vancouver, London and Mumbai.

For more details, www.primefocusworld.com

WorldSourcing and View-D are registered trademarks of Prime Focus Limited.

==============================================================================

With Women’s day around the corner, the ever fit and ever gorgeous Madhuri Dixit gave tips to women on getting fit and strong.

The Bollyood diva highlighted the importance of fitness and also encouraged women to gear up and fight against crime. The actor shared her experience in training for her upcoming film – Gulaab gang. Madhuri has been trained by Shifu Kanishka, who with his immense knowledge of the martial arts. The ace trainer gave tips on women empowerment and demonstrated how women can defend themselves with some very simple moves along with Gold’s Gym trainer Sunil Haryan.

Welcoming them and encouraging women to get fit was VP Marketing Gold’s Gym Althea Shah who encouraged Madhuri Dixit to show some moves herself. Women members from across Mumbai witnessed the occasion and got a chance to meet Madhuri at the special event at Gold’s Gym, Bandra.

Also present was CEO Sahara Movie Studios Mr. Sandeep Bhargava who along with Madhuri presented all women with special edition Gulaab gang pepper sprays.

————-==========================================================

SAB TV’s FIR team senses “Darr”

Horror is back in business as unusual paranormal activity leaves the cast and crew of SAB TV’s FIR horrified and helpless. While it may be common for Kavita Kaushik aka Chandramukhi Chautala from FIR to face new challenges in her everyday life and solve mysterious crimes in the city, the actress and the other crew members faced their moment of fright, during the recent visit of Bollywood actor, Jimmy Shergill during the promotion of his upcoming horror film “Darr @ The Mall”. The film releases in India on 21st February, 2014.

A source from the sets informs us that while Kavita and Jimmy were shooting for their sequence, the main door of the studio suddenly shut and locks. Although the crew and staff tried hard their best, they could not open the door. To add to the chaos, a technical snag rendered the set powerless. The subsequent power-failure rendered the set pitch dark with only the vocal sounds of people being heard.

This created a near panic situation as the enclosed atmosphere of the set started getting claustrophobic. Since the set was sound proof with limited air flow, even the mobile networks were unavailable when the set crew tried to call for help.

Just like the suddenness of the power failure, the power was restored and light was switched on as abruptly and unexpectedly. Even the studio door got unlocked on its own. The biggest surprise however was the fact that there was nobody outside who was responsible for this abrupt chain of events. Truly strange!

While speaking about the incident, Kavita Kaushik says, “Since we did couple of Horror based comedy show in FIR in the past, the idea of promoting “Darr @ The Mall” went off pretty well”.

It was an interesting day for Kavita Kaushik experiencing the thrill and excitement during the shoot.

Tune into FIR on SAB TV every Mon-Friday at 10:30 pm

==========================

Bring it on…

Put on your Dancing Shoes: Dance Central’s Dance Extravaganza

Dance Central, founded by Vineet Bangera hosted its Annual Dance Extravaganza, spectacular dance performances by Smilie Suri & Amit Dholawat at the annual dance affair.

Dance Central, founded by Vineet Bangera in 2011 is a holistic center which focuses on quality dance education, high-end dance apparels, strong career options & events, a center teaching Salsa, Cha Cha, Bachata, Rueda, Hip Hop & also running an intensive body conditioning & workout class.

Also present at the event was Udita Goswami, who cheered in awe of Smilie Suri’s dance moves she performed with renowned dancer Amit Dholawat.

Prashant Sharma was also present at the event cheering the dance all the way .

Vineet Bangera, founder of Dance Central, has been dancing & teaching for over a decade in the field of performing arts having taught & performed in over 25 countries (Istanbul, Antalya, Greece, Cyprus, Germany, Paris, Malaysia, Bangkok, Bali, Sydney, Dubai, Slovenia, Croatia, Oman, Manila to name a few) & all over India.

A center that hosts regular themed Latin parties in the city at different venues to give back to students & other dancers in Latin community featuring Latin street & Ballroom music, Dance Central brings Bring it on, spearheaded by Vineet Bangera.

Vineet Bangera talks about the upcoming dance extravaganza, “I am pretty much excited about Bring it on. Our students will be showcasing their spectacular dance moves. I basically wish to spread my passion for dance in India & enhance the social acceptance & cultural awareness of dance through Dance Central.”

Working towards making dance a mainstream and not just a hobby, Vineet concludes, “At Dance Central we are not just teachers who teach dance, but educate, enhance, inspire, motivate & prepare people for better living.”

Vineet Bangera sure does work hard being a dance entrepreneur by bringing it on!

Regards

Picture N Kraft Team

19/101 Mhada Complex, Oshiwara Garden Lane,

New Link Road, Andheri (West) Mumbai-400053

Email-parul@picturenkraft.com

Tel Nos.98335774

==========================================================

Show more