I am extremely delighted, proud, overwhelmed… love from the audience is our real reward
Producer Chandni Soni’s happiness knows no bounds. And, why not? Her co-production, web series Tandoor has been nominated for the best series award in Filmfare for the OTT platform.
“I am extremely delighted, proud, and overwhelmed with all the love and affection that Tandoor has been receiving. Right from the critics to the masses, everybody has loved it. Being nominated for various awards is just the icing on the cake. I’m thankful to all the juries who have nominated it in various categories in different award shows. Award and appreciation definitely matter a lot. Honestly, this love from the audience is our real reward, and awards are the much-required stamp of appreciation,” she says.
Performance of actors Rashami Desai and Tanuj Virwani, who played lead characters in the web series, has been appreciated.
“Rashmi and Tanuj were a delight to work with. They have put in so much effort to get under the skin of their characters. Both have wonderfully portrayed their roles, which are much layered and have successfully adopted the essence of those parts,” she too showers praises on the actors.
Chandni shares that she got the best compliment from her father-in-law for the series. “He called me immediately after he saw Tandoor and said that I had executed the story in a very sensitive manner. He liked the way we presented the content and didn’t let it become just another average crime series. He also praised the way we have handled the emotions of two main characters, he found the depiction balanced,” adds the producer of the hit web series Raktanchal.
Talking about her future plans, she says, “I’m reading a lot of scripts these days before finalising my next project. Tandoor has raised the bar really high now, so I need to choose my next project wisely. I have to live up to the expectations. I don’t want to compromise on the entertainment quotient.”
Watch the crazy ride as Lara Dutta & Prateik Babbar deal with the univited guest.In a society that believes in propagating its ‘set ideas’, it relies heavily on its seniors to school the children. But what happens when a know-it-all uncle gets a taste of new-age behaviour. If you’ve got a sneak peek of the Rao’s from Lionsgate Play’s first Indian original ‘Hiccups and Hookups’, you know they aren’t the kind who will take all the gyaan coming their way, lying down. When Alok Nath decided to make an entry into the Rao household, all hell broke loose.
The daredevils smashed his ideas and ideologies. Starting with the quintessential ‘peari pauna’ to the unnecessary lecture, Nath’s traditional ways were tossed out of the window as the young ones gave their not-so-cool uncle a glimpse of their life and routine. As young, successful people who know their mind, the siblings gave Nath a taste of their unabashed attitude.
Leading man Prateik Babbar says, “It was such a blast getting Alok Nath to shoot with us. The idea was capture how shocking a no-filter family can be and Alok Nath being the epitome of all things traditional for the youth, was the perfect one to shoot this with.”
Nath, who is the OG of all things sanskaari, says, “Sometimes its refreshing to make jokes on yourself. There’s this impression of me but the video reflects that as actors we are self aware and know how to have a laugh. It was great fun shooting this video. It was hilarious and candid and this is the most fun I have had at work in a long time.”
The video, designed as a promotional tool for the first outing from Lionsgate Play, is bound to have the audience rolling on the floor. Rejecting every conservative idea that he tries to push through, Lara and Prateik drop some much-needed truth bombs. Maybe it’s too late to change Uncle Nath but they do hope to change a few know-it-all viewers of theirs. Get ready to go on a no-holds barred and fun ride with them!
Watch the hilarious video here: https://youtu.be/Vj3Keir47Gs Hiccups and Hookups starring Lara Dutta and Prateik Babbar and helmed by Kunal Kohli will stream from November 26
Shiwani Sokhey of SS Productions in collaboration with Moviemaxx have launched their production No. 3 here in Hyderabad, on Wednesday 24th of November. This will be SS productions’s maiden venture in Telugu, after making two successful films in their native Punjabi and Hindi language. Moviemaxx, a noted distributor in Telugu Film Industry, has partnered with Shiwani Sokhey for this venture. Moviemaxx is known for distributing various Tamil blockbusters into TFI, like Chandramukhi, Aparichithudu, 7th sense and Shivaputhrudu. Their previous big ticket venture was Maro in 2011, with Actor Nithin as the main lead.
Along with the announcement of the project, the team has started recording the promo song for the film, which will be composed by Music Director Sandy Addanki of “Killing Veerappan” fame, Sandy Addanki, who has composed back ground scores for various big films is helming the music and BGM of the film. The first single is about to be released shortly. An upcoming ad- film maker Shyam Nani is getting introduced as Director in TFI, with this project. The project is presently in pre production stage and the makers said the cast and crew details will be revealed soon.
Bharti Singh on The Indian Game Show on Bharti TV: I know people have hopes pinned on our YouTube show… I’m nervous, and don’t want to be overconfident*
Popular comedian, host and actor Bharti Singh’s upcoming show The Indian game show on Bharti TV has been creating a lot of buzz. A record number of 101 celebrities will participate on the show and Bharti is super excited to start her new journey.
“Yes, 101 celebrities came to our new Indian Game show. I really didn’t know that this is a record number, but yes I haven’t heard about 101 celebrities coming to any other show. So it’s a big achievement for me and Haarsh (Limbachiyaa; writer, host and Bharti’s husband),” she says.
In this show a lot of people participated from the TV and music industries. YouTube celebrities also joined in. “Singers like Asees Kaur , Divya Kumar, composer Sachin-Jigar, Meet brothers, from TV, Krushna Abhishek, Kiku Sharda ji, Chandan Prabhakhar, Sudesh Lehri, YouTubers like Team 07, Ashnoor Kaur, Chinki-Minki (Surabhi – Samriddhi), Siddharth Nigam, Abhishek Nigam, Manav and Unnati, choreographers Terence Lewis, Kishen Bilagali (winner of Dance Deewane), actors Jasmin Bhasin, Aly Goni, Punit Pathak, Aditya Narayan, Mubeen Saudagar… I can’t even remember so many names, all of them came. I am grateful and thankful to them all,” Bharti sounds emotional.
People have high expectations from the show. “I know people have hopes pinned on the show and I hope I am able to live up to that. Yes, we are quite nervous, especially me. Haarsh is busy with his work so I don’t know how nervous he is. But I’m sure he’s worried too. We have full trust in ourselves and on our team who have been working really hard. Overconfident ho jao toh cheeze acchi nahi hoti. So, fingers crossed, hope everything will go well,” she adds.
Managing so many actors and production of such a huge canvas is quite a task. “We didn’t find it difficult though probably because we didn’t have a celebrity manager or any agency to bring them. These all are my friends, they just came on the show when I requested them. So a big thank you to all of them for their love and support,” she shares.
What is your message to Haarsh and Bharti fans? “So Haarsh and I don’t ever call them our fans but family because of the amount of love these people have for us. Our show is starting November 25 onwards on Bharti TV, my YouTube channel, and I hope everyone would enjoy watching it, comment and also share feedback, suggestions. Please shower some love to my YouTube channel and do subscribe,” she urges.
The fans of the couple love to see them together. “It means a lot for us. Haarsh and I love working together. I’m a bit nervous right now, but it’s a quite good feeling. Jo bhi hoga acha hi hoga, can’t wait to release our first episode. (Smiles) What will be the response is the question we all have right now. The response our promo got was encouraging. We are trying our best to make it a show worth watching. Episodes will come four times a week, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. So you’ll have to work for three days, Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday and from Thursday hum aapke seva mein haazir ho jayenge,” she end on a laughing note by cracking a joke.
A Peta-approved vegan shoe brand in India aims to contribute to the betterment of social and environmental aspects by manufacturing sustainable vegan shoes to consumers. This first-of-its-kind eco-friendly footwear brand also upcycles discarded shoes into comfortable footwear to underprivileged kids along with building a self-sustainable social venture.
Greensole offers a wide range of stylish and comfortable footwear that includes slip-ons, sport, lace-up and flip flops. Each pair is handcrafted to perfection using sustainable material. All the footwear uppers are made from rewashed canvas, dye print and come with comfortable and breathable padding. With Greensole footwear you can now look stylish and feel good as you take a step towards conserving the environment.
What sets Greensole apart
Each purchase’s revenue would go to refurbishing shoes and donating to children in need and opening skill centers. In 2018, Greensole started its first skill center in collaboration with Tata Steel and Lion’s Club, Noamundi. The brand also creates employment opportunities for women in rural areas.
Commenting on the brand, Shriyans Bhandari and Ramesh Dhami, Co-founders of Greensole said,
“As athletes, we ran hundreds of kilometers every year. We also ran through at least three to four pairs of sports shoes every year. The soles were in good condition but the shoe sides tore within months. This made us wonder if we could find some use for the intact soles of these quality sports shoes. A bit of research led to the idea of refurbishing them into trendy slippers.”
“Today, Greensole, which is a successful culmination of social, economic and environment-friendly potential, is an initiative that has been recognised and appreciated by the likes of Ratan Tata, Barack Obama and Forbes Asia 30 under 30. With Greensole, we aim to support our three pillars of change – social, environmental and economic and make a huge impact,” concluded the Co-founders.
Karma Group recently reconfirmed its standing as one of the world’s leading luxury resort groups with the announcement of its 43rd to its ever-expanding portfolio.
Karma Merapi resides in the idyllic Yogyakarta in Indonesia’s Java, a heritage-listed property which dates back more than a century, and embraces traditional Javanese architecture.
It’s as intriguing historically as it is visually – Karma Merapi was once used by the sultan to house his guests. The building remains within an easy stroll of the palace, not to mention the historic old town, a bustling space overflowing with markets and street food stalls that are sure to tempt visiting gourmands.
Part of Karma Merapi’s appeal lies in its convenient location, which provides easy access to the region’s abundance of famous temples, including the globally renowned Borobudur, and volcano Gunung Merapi, which are just a short drive away.
But guests will be in no rush to leave the resort grounds, which consists of 24 stylishly furnished suites, congregated around a lavish pool area and manicured gardens. Karma Merapi is also home to one of the city’s most revered eateries; Sixsenses Kitchen, and within walking distance (or becak ride) to many more.
“This new acquisition continues our strategy of providing resort locations which are easily accessible and popular with the local domestic market,” says Chairman and Founder of Karma Group, John Spence of the decision to expand Karma Group’s presence in Indonesia. “While having a strong appeal to international travellers when they are once again able to visit Indonesia, it also demonstrates our commitment to developing a string of resorts within the Indonesian archipelago, and our belief in this market.”
Paksha, a Tarinika brand, known for its exquisite high-quality 925 silver jewellery globally, has signed Shruti Haasan as brand ambassador. With the talented actress and musician as a muse, Paksha will bring forth its splendid line of jewellery with a fine amalgamation of timeless design and meticulous quality. The brand has some exciting campaigns planned with their muse, showcasing some of their best and boldest workmanship on her.
The brand campaigns will continue to focus on quality-led heirlooms and Shruti will feature in a series of photoshoots and video campaigns for the brand’s global launch. Shruti Haasan will be making appearances on advertising campaigns around the country and across many global platforms, representing the magnificent quality of Paksha.
Paksha, is thrilled to invite Shruti Haasan, a multifaceted personality, into their family. Shruti embodies Paksha’s values of being rooted in high-quality workmanship, providing luxury experience and being best-in-class. She is a woman who knows what she wants and would only stand for the highest of standards. She is confident, glamorous and one of the best in the industry.
Speaking about the association, Shruti Haasan for their upcoming collection that is an amalgamation of classic, traditional, and unique jewellery said, “It’s an honour for me to be associated with a global brand such as Paksha By Tarinika, which is a pioneer in the jewellery industry. I am delighted to carry the brand’s journey forward with some exciting new launches. Their jewellery is exquisite, and I am more than thrilled to be associated with the brand. Their workmanship would appeal to a wide audience around the world, ranging from young to wise for a variety of occasions. I have had a chance to wear and experience some of their best pieces and am thrilled to share that with everyone”.
The journey of Paksha began with special focus to offer high-quality 925 silver jewellery to customers worldwide. Naturally, Shruti’s persona resonates with the luxurious appeal of Paksha as a jewelry brand. Shruti Hassan will play a key part in positioning the brand’s portfolio globally, since the line is meticulously made for buyers with a sophisticated eye for detail. Having attained great prowess in high quality scaled sustainable production, the brand custodian Tarinika, has been in the jewellery making business for several decades now and will extend their expertise to Pakshaas well.
Speaking on the exciting occasion, Sunaina Ramisetty at Paksha said, “Shruti is a powerhouse of talent and a natural fit for Paksha. With her multifaceted, vibrant, vivacious, and dazzling personality, she brings the right kind of panache for our brand. A multi-dimensional artist, Shruti is confident, bold, glamorous and embodies the brand’s philosophy in her own individual way. Paksha as a brand is created to make one feel truly special and we think with Shruti as our ambassador, we will share exactly that vision with our customers.”
Excited to share that FlipkartVideo in collaboration with Guneet Monga’s production house, Sikhya Entertainment is back to launch an all-new season of their hit interactive crime fiction show – Kaun? Who did it? . This season comes of the back of the successful launches of season 1 and 2 that gave audiences a one-of-a-kind chance to bring out the inner detective from the comfort of your phone. Launching today on the Flipkart App, the show takes new twists and turns featuring versatile actor Sushant Singh and renowned theatre actress Samvedna Suwalka. Every episode across the series will give audiences an opportunity to solve a thrilling murder case real time whilst also winning some exciting prizes.
Honeymoons are not merely a vacation. It is an unforgettable once in a lifetime experience that every couple wants. Candle-lit dinners, bespoke couple spa sessions, champagne breakfast, cosy cabannas, or private beaches, honeymoon is a time for an all-out luxury. Discover the dreamiest and indulgent honeymoon spots for the year here:
Jumby Bay Island, Antigua
Make a touch-down in Antigua, jump on board the property’s private yacht and breeze across turquoise seas. In two miles and less than ten minutes you are on Jumby Bay Island, a private island paradise. The 300-acre island home is one of the most desirable, all-inclusive retreats in the Caribbean and a place to reconnect with nature, in an unhurried atmosphere with the meticulous attention of the resort’s team for your peace of mind.
Jumby Bay, features 28 tastefully decorated suites and luxury vacation villas. Just steps away from pristine white beaches, each suite is a tranquil oasis offering spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea. This exclusive luxury Caribbean resort embodies both the beauty of nature and the tradition of elegance with inspiring surroundings and simple sophistication.
Baur Au Lac, Zurich
Located in the heart of Zurich in the middle of its very own private park, the historic Baur Au Lac welcomes you with a magnificent view of Lake Zurich and the Alps and is the perfect setting for a romantic escapade. Its unique, privileged location, stylish rooms & suites, award-winning gastronomy and incomparable Baur au Lac service is an experience that would take your honeymoon from great to extraordinary and magical.
Opened in 1844 by Johannes Baur, who came from the Vorarlberg area in Austria, it was built using part of the old war harbour which had been filled in a short time before. The Baur au Lac, still more of a large villa, served at first as an elegant residence for guests travelling incognito. The most famous musicians in the world have gone in and out ever since. The list extends from Arthur Rubinstein to Zubin Mehta, Placido Domingo, Anne-Sophie Mutter and Elton John. Today, a cast of royals, actors, and musicians is drawn to the grande dame hotel for its exquisitely discreet service, stunning views, private lakeshore park, and proximity to Zurich’s historic sites, including the world-famous Bahnhofstrasse shopping street.
Depending on the category you choose, you can enjoy dreamlike views of the dazzling Lake Zurich or the picturesque Schanzengraben from the suites at Baur Au Lac. Each room has a different decor from Art Deco, Louis XVI or English Regency mixed with multiple contemporary and beautiful pieces of art. The Baur au Lac is home to some of the best restaurants in Zurich. A dinner date at Pavillion, one of city’s most celebrated restaurants, where head chef Laurent Eperon offers modern interpretations of haute cuisine classics will make it a night to remember.
Cheval Blanc St-Tropez
Cradled by century-old pine trees, Cheval Blanc St-Tropez is a haven of tranquillity on the mediterranean sea, ideal for escapades at the heart of the mythical village or seaside leasures on the maison beach. Awarded with the palace distinction, the spirit of the maison is reflected in contemporary notes from jean-michel wilmotte, for a true escape in blue at the heart of provence. Cheval Blanc St. Tropez features 19 rooms and suites that are enveloped in pure exclusive privacy.
Map tracing, adventure taking – the Côte d’Azur is a playground for the senses. The Maison’s Alchemists design personalised activities to fit every mood, occasion and desire to discover and has handcrafted personalized private experiences for two to share. Sunrise picnics in a bespoke Mini-Moke, a wellness journey in the Orchidée Salon, secret siestas on a quiet beach, a riveting sail across the Bay, a VIP evening spent dancing until dawn… the Maison’s Alchemists are dreamweavers for moments of lasting tranquillity, or adrenaline-filled excursions.
The Datai Langkawi
Tucked in a 10 million-year-old virgin rainforest on the magical island of Langkawi, The Datai offers breathtaking views over the Andaman Sea and enjoys access to the incredible Datai Bay, which has been named as one of the top 10 beaches in the world. The Datai Langkawi boasts 121 guestrooms, suites and villas to choose from, offering sensational views of the surrounding rainforest as well as the Andaman Sea and Tarutao Island. The one and two-bedroom beach villas offering complete privacy with private gardens and access to the beach as well as a full butler service are perfectly designed to bring you a superlative dreamy getaway.
Enjoy sun-soaked mornings on the pristine beach or lounging by one of the glittering turquoise pools. Treat your taste buds to a gourmet lunch in one of its avant garde restaurants, then breeze over to The Spa for some rejuvenating treatments while being surrounded by the natural aromas of the rainforest. End the day with a toast to your new adventure as a married couple and watch the sun slip beneath the horizon from your pleasingly private terrace.
What’s luxury without some adventure. Adventure seeking couples can enjoy an extensive range of non-motorised water sports including snorkelling and sailing, as well as bike-riding, golf and tennis. While the surrounding jungle offers ample opportunity for guests to spot a whole host of wildlife including Dusky Langurs, Tokay Geckos and Sunda Colugos.
Samujana, Koh Samui
If privacy, relaxation, fantastic views, private villa and private chefs would mean a dream getaway to you, Samujana is the place to bring it alive. Samujana features twenty-seven unique private villas, each featuring private infinity pools and unobstructed views of the local surrounds, extensive living and dining areas, as well as a blend of open-air and air-conditioned spaces.
But the villas are only the backdrop for your Samujana experience. Throughout your stay, a dedicated team of Samujana staff, headed by your Villa Manager, will be on-hand to ensure your comfort. Charter Samujana’s luxury 43 ft. catamaran, ‘Kindred Spirit’ for a private cruise or go waterskiing, diving or snorkelling with the fleet of boats. Explore the glimmering coral reefs and underwater world of Koh Tao, one of the World’s best diving spots or treat yourself to a relaxing massage in the privacy of your villa.
Armani Hotel Milano, Milan
A glitzy European honeymoon is the stuff of dreams for many couples created by some popular Bollywood movies. Go ahead and include the most glamorous city in Italy to your plan. Live out a dream in this enchanting city with elegant crystal domes, unmatched style, and exotic food. Milan is known to be the Queen of all finer things in life. So, give that treasured and extravagant touch to your honeymoon while you book at stay at Armani Hotel Milano. Armani Hotel Milano is located in the world famous couture district, known as Quadrilatero della Moda, only a few minutes away from the luxury shopping streets of Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga, the famous La Scala theatre and the spectacular Piazza del Duomo. Milan is not only the World’s Fashion Capital but also a city to be discovered, with its little secrets and hidden locations. The Armani style and philosophy defines every detail of the 95 guestrooms and suites. Each element has been personally designed by Giorgio Armani and chosen for sculptural, aesthetic and sensual qualities. The rooms embody the hallmarks of the Armani brand: elegance, comfort and sophistication and provide in-room amenities that are specially tailored for the utmost convenience of guests.
Looking for a vacation without the crowds? We bring you some of the world’s most luxurious private villas and residences for your private vacation. From outdoor movie experience and private docks for island access to your 24-hour in-villa butler and a private chef, they offer an experience that is abundant in space, beauty, dedicated staff and privacy that is simply resplendent.
Villa Sainte-Anne at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc:
This summer marks the inaugural season for the sumptuous Villa Sainte-Anne, Hotel du Cap-EdenRoc’s largest private villa. The 337 square metre home, originally built by founding hotelier Antoine Sella, has received a complete restoration of its expansive interiors, 2100 square metres of private Tuscan gardens and swimming pool. The renovations were led by the renowned talents of architect Luc Svetchine and interior designer Countess Bergit Gräfin Douglas.
Elegant interiors include five en-suite bedrooms, each with a dressing room, a spa with sauna, steam and gym. The villa is fully staffed, with a chauffeur and car available 5 hours a day, but an annex to the property can also accommodate your own staff.
A Unique Mediterranean Villa – Ultima Corfu
Overlooking the Ionian Sea, Ultima Corfu is an ocean-front villa located on the emerald island of Corfu, Greece. Offering spectacular 180-degree views of the Greek and Albanian coasts, it comprises a main villa and a guest villa with 7 ensuite bedrooms, private balconies and terraces overlooking the sea. Ultima Corfu is the perfect place for a luxury retreat in utter seclusion, with a truly authentic Greek atmosphere.
The villa is designed for optimal comfort and wellness, from its two infinity pools set on different levels that are joined by a waterfall, to its home gym, spa, hammam and jacuzzi with a view. In addition, the villa boasts a home cinema as well as the possibility for an outdoor movie experience and a private dock for access to the islands via a private yacht or for refreshing swims in the ocean. Comprising 1’000m2, the villa can host up to 14 people across seven bedrooms. Every suite includes a private dressing room, bathroom and access to a sea-facing terrace. With a large terrace spanning the width of the property, every room including the living room, dining room, kitchen and office has been designed to create the feeling of ocean-side living.
Villa De France – Cheval Blanc St Barth Isle De France
In front of the ocean, the Villa de France offers a direct access to Flamands Beach. This five-bedroom residence with dedicated bathroom and private dressing and a magnificent living room opening onto an infinity-edge pool with a turquoise horizon invites families and tribes to enjoy the indulgence of the Caribbean. Sprawling 650sqm (6997 sqft) this villa is spread over 2 floors and unveils a private spa and fitness room, a dining room and a kitchen to celebrate intimate moments and create unparalleled tribes memories. A dedicated Majordome crafts every detail, at all hours of the day.
Armani Signature Suite (Cinema) – Armani Hotel Milano
Measuring up to 203sqm (2185 sqft), this elegant duplex suite features a vestibule, private kitchen, and spacious living room with guest lavatory. The Suite has an exclusive private Cinema with a 100-inch LCD TV, while an impressive circular staircase leads up to the bedroom with a magnificent en suite marble bathroom.
Samujana Villas, Koh Samui
Samujana’s definition is very simple – 23 charming villas from 1 to 8 bedrooms, all with oversized private infinity pools, modern Thai architecture and breath-taking views, 5 star hotel services and details that make the world of differences, the perfect place for friends and family to gather and have a great time.
Samujana prides itself on providing an unparalleled luxury experience with our motto being, “Your Place. Your Time.” Each Villa comes automatically with its private Villa Manager and villa maid, state-of-the art leisure facilities and the latest in audio and media amenities, your private villa is your HOME away from home and if you really fancy having your own private chefs, you need just to ask and will take care of the rest.
For fun beyond villas, Samujana offers an extensive range of land and water experiences. From boating excursions on our private sailboat to chauffeured tours of the beautiful island and waterfalls, your Experience Manager will help curate a bespoke adventure for you and your guests
The Datai Estate Villa – The Datai Langkawi
The Datai Estate Villa is designed for guests seeking a rarefied hospitality experience. At 3,500 square meters with five bedrooms, it is one of the largest of its kind in Asia. Situated in the rainforest, it is just a short walk to the beach. The Datai Estate Villa comprises two spacious living rooms and two dining rooms, a lounge with a bar, five bedrooms each with a balcony, two connecting pools and outdoor dining facilities.
There is also a flexible space which can be adapted into a children’s playroom, a spa treatment room or a small gym, according to guests’ needs. The villa includes the services of a 24-hour in-villa butler and a private chef. The room rate is inclusive of complimentary airport transfers and an in-villa bar (excluding wines from the wine cooler), as well as daily afternoon tea and à la carte breakfast at The Beach Club or served in the privacy of your villa.