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Renowned filmmaker and activist Ashoke Pandit has launched his own podcast titled ‘The Ashoke Pandit Show’ on YouTube. The inaugural episode featured Bjp Mla Ameet Satam, while the latest installment welcomed former journalist Jigna Vora, known for her appearance in the season of ” Bigg Boss Season 17”.

Viewers can catch full episodes on ‘The Ashoke Pandit Show’ YouTube channel. To stay updated, follow @theashokepanditshow on Instagram and Facebook for regular updates and behind-the-scenes insights. With insightful discussions and engaging guests, Pandit aims to provide a platform for meaningful dialogue and diverse perspectives on pressing issues.

Ashoke Pandit Starts Podcast On Youtube… Filmmaker – activist #AshokePandit has commenced ‘The Ashoke Pandit Show’ on #YouTube.

The first episode featured #Bjp #Mla #AmeetSatam, while the latest episode features former journalist #JignaVora, who featured in the new season of… pic.twitter.com/V0jcNHx7ZJ

— taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) February 27, 2024

Whether it’s politics, entertainment, or social commentary,...

Mumbai, June 29 (Ians) “Misleading.” That is how the Central Board of Film Certification (Cbfc) has described the storm in a teacup stirred by Ashoke Pandit with regard to the trailer of the upcoming film ’72 Hoorain’.The Board has officially stated that the reports about the film’s trailer not getting a censor certificate are misleading as they don’t paint a complete picture. The certification of the trailer is under due process.

The board officially communicated that contrary to reports, the film ‘Bahattar Hoorain (72 Hoorain)’ was granted ‘A’ certification on October 4, 2019. The certificate for the trailer of the film, directed by Sanjay Puran Singh Chauhan, was applied for on June 19, 2023, and it is under due process.

Reports quoting Pandit, the co-producer, about the film’s trailer being refused the censor certificate now seem like being a publicity stunt for the film before its release. The film tells the story...

Mumbai, June 28 (Ians) The makers of ’72 Hoorain’, which had won its helmer, Sanjay Puran Singh Chauhan, the National Award for Best Direction in 2019, vehemently disagreed with the decision of the Central Board of Film Certification (Cbfc) to reject the film’s trailer.

Labeling the decision as being regressive, Ashoke Pandit, the movie’s co-producer, said: “We are extremely hurt and disturbed because of the Cbfc’s unfair decision of rejecting the trailer without any reason. This action raises a big concern about creativity, freedom and realistic filmmaking. We will not take this lightly and will knock on the doors of the high court, if needed.”

He added that “we will also be requesting the I&b ministry to intervene and question the authority at Cbfc for rejecting the trailer.”

Chauhan, a two-time National Award winner, who seemed visibly unhappy with Cbfc’s decision, noted: “The movie has won a National...

Mumbai, June 28 (Ians) The makers of the National Award winning movie ’72 Hoorain’, at the movie’s trailer launch, expressed disagreement with the Central Board of Film Certification (Cbfc) for their decision to reject the trailer.

Labeling the decision as regressive to the artistic spirit, Ashoke Pandit who is the co-producer of the movie, said: “We are extremely hurt and disturbed because of Cbfc’s unfair decision of rejecting the trailer without any reason. This action raises a big concern about creativity, freedom and realistic filmmaking. We will not take this lightly and will knock on the doors of the high court too, if needed.”

“Further, we will also be requesting the I&b ministry to intervene and question the authority at Cbfc for rejecting the trailer.”

The director of the movie, Sanjay Puran Singh Chauhan, a two-time National Award Winner, who seemed visibly unhappy with Cbfc’S decision, added: “The...

National Award-winning filmmaker Sanjay Puran Singh Chauhan’s ‘72 Hoorain’ trailer is all about radicalisation, terrorism and religious fundamentalism, which has now got into a controversy.

Produced by Ashoke Pandit, the film landed in soup after its teaser was released on June 4. It has reportedly been denied certification by the censor board.

The over two-minutes long clip shows a satirical take on terrorism. It begins with introducing late Pakistani actor Rasheed Naz a maulvi, who talks about 72 Hoorain. Pavan Malhotra plays Hakim and Aamir Bashir essays Bilal boasting of the leisure and 72 virgins in heaven only granted to the true followers of religion.

The two are on top of a building talking about life post death. The video swiftly moves to visuals of bomb blasts and terrorist attacks. It ends with two bodies of terrorists being thrown into the water.

‘72 Hoorain’ is scheduled to release on July 7.

Terrorism all across the globe is a major matter of concern. But given a thought, who are these terrorists? They do not belong to an alien land but dwell in blood and skin just like other humans. What sets them apart from the rest of the crowd is their mindset! A mindset that is twisted and doctored into normalising brutal killings of the innocent in the name of religion and jihad.

Brainwashed into believing the fictional concept of 72 Virgins, the terrorists fall into the trap of fantasising about a soothing life after death with their personal 72 Hoorain.

But what if the whole desperate concept of 72 Hoorain is fictional? What if, in the name of Jihad, rather than 72 virgins, you met a gruesome death? What if the soul is left wandering on the face of the earth in total distress?

The hard-hitting teaser gives you the ultimate reality check: suicide bombings...

National Award winner and veteran film-maker Pradeep Sarkar, noted for making sensitive and powerful women centric films like ‘Parineeta’ and ‘Mardaani’, passed away after a prolonged illness, early on Friday morning, family sources said. He was 67 and his funeral rites shall be performed at the Santacruz Crematorium this afternoon at 4 p.m.

According to his friends and associates, he was rushed to a hospital last night for kidney and related ailments, but failed to survive and breathed his last early this morning.

Prominent Bollywood biggies like Ajay Devgn, Manoj Bajpayee, Ashoke Pandit, Nitu Chandra-Srivastava, Hansal Mehta, Neil Nitin Mukesh and others mourned and paid tributes to Sarkar as the news broke out.

Starting his entertainment career with commercials and music videos in the early 1900s, Sarkar debuted as a director with ‘Parineeta’ (2005) starring Sanjay Dutt, Saif Ali Khan and Vidya Balan.

Over the years, he made other films like ‘Laaga...

Bollywood actor Kartik Aaryan remembered the late actor-director Satish Kaushik as a ‘best landlord’ in his struggling days. Aaryan shared a picture of him in a printed shirt and denim and called him a great human being, who helped him in his initial years of struggle and guided him always.

He wrote in his Instagram stories: “A great actor, a great human being, and the best landlord, I had during my struggling days in the city. Will always remember your encouraging words and laughter sir. Rip Satish Sir (folded hands emoji).”

Satish died of a heart attack and his last rites were held at the Versova crematorium in the presence of his family members and close friends, including actor Anupam Kher and director Ashok Pandit.

The late actor is known for his roles in ‘Mr. India’, ‘Deewana Mastana’, ‘Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro’, ‘Ram Lakhan’, ‘Mr. & Mrs. Khiladi’, and ‘Haseena Maan Jaayegi’, among others.

ControversyRicha Chadha’s tweet regarding the Indian army has received massive backlash, with many abusing the actor over it.Tnm StaffInstagramThe controversy surrounding actor Richa Chadha’s tweet about the Indian Army has snowballed, with Twitter users now calling for the boycott of a skincare brand for supporting the actor’s tweet. The brand, Mama Earth, said in a tweet that Richa’s statement could be interpreted as a sign of the army’s strength in Galwan Valley. Richa has been facing flak for her tweet, which was in response to Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi's statement that the army is “fully ready to take back Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) from Pakistan”. “Galwan says hi,” the actor replied, referring to the 2020 Galwan Valley clash with Chinese troops. Richa’s tweet has received massive backlash, with many abusing the actor over it. Bollywood actors also reacted negatively to the tweet,...

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (Bmc) has filed an Fir against Bollywood actress Gauahar Khan for continuing to shoot despite testing positive for Covid-19.

Ashoke Pandit tweeted a copy of the Fir filed by the Bmc against Gauahar Khan which has her name written on it. Confirming the same, Ashoke Pandit tweeted from his verified account on Monday, "I condemn the illegal act committed by actress @Gauahar_Khan by attending the shoot even though she was Covid positive thus putting other crew members lives to danger. I thank @mybmc & @MumbaiPolice for their swift action."

I condemn the illegal act committed by actress @Gauahar_Khan by attending the shoot even though she was Covid positive thus putting other crew members lives to danger.

I thank @mybmc & @MumbaiPolice for their swift action. pic.twitter.com/R7kx18MxaF

— Ashoke Pandit (@ashokepandit) March 15, 2021

Meanwhile, the Bmc and Mumbai Police on Monday posted cryptic tweets...

Kulmeet Makkar, the CEO of the Film and Television Producers Guild of India, has died at the age of 60.

The Guild posted a statement on its social media feeds confirming the news.

“Today we lost our pillar of strength. Kulmeet is irreplaceable. His passion, integrity, resourcefulness and commitment were only matched by his deep empathy and unique ability to find a way through the toughest situation,” the org wrote.

“Today we have lost someone who has played an integral role – always unassumingly and behind the scenes – to nurture and grow the Indian film and television industry,” it continued. “Our dearest Kulmeet,...

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan received flak all through Wednesday morning for showing support for metro construction in Mumbai, at a time when people are protesting against the cutting of trees in Aarey forest for new rail lines to be laid.

Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit tweeted: "Respected @SrBachchan Sir. We as activists fighting to #SaveAarey would like to know whether this tweet means that you support #MetroCarshed at Aarey? Why Massacre 2700 fully grown trees when one has alternatives. Development at the cost of nature is dangerous to mankind."

Also Read:?Amitabh Bachchan praises Mumbai Metro on social media

Pandit's comment came in response to Big B's tweet on Tuesday that read: "Friend of mine had a medical emergency, decided to take Metro instead of his car. Came back very impressed said was faster, convenient and most efficient. Solution for pollution. Grow more trees, I did in my garden. Have you?"

The official Twitter...

Singer Mika Singh has apologised to the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (Fwice) after the association banned him from working in India, following his recent live performance in Pakistan.

Interacting with the media on Wednesday in Mumbai, Mika said he had to do it owing to prior commitment, but admitted it was a mistake that he would never repeat. However, the interaction soon turned into a heated exchange between the singer and the media.

Also Read:?Mika Singh banned from Indian film industry

"This was a commitment signed long back. The timing was wrong that I went there because the decision on Article 370 has just been taken. I called the federation and told them that this was a mistake. I apologise for the mistake and I won't repeat it again. I got a visa, so I went (to Pakistan). If you get a visa, you will go, too," said Mika,...

Sixty-two celebrities, including actress Kangana Ranaut and writer-lyricist Prasoon Joshi, on Friday came out with a counter open letter slamming an earlier open letter submitted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi by 49 film personalities, which expressed concern over the growing number of lynchings across India.

The counter open letter questioned the selective outrage and false narratives that the earlier letter allegedly propagates.

Also Read:?Entertainment Journalists' Guild boycott Kangana Ranaut

The 62 personalities include Sonal Mansingh, Pandit Vishwa Mohan Bhatt, Madhur Bhandarkar, Vivek Agnihotri, Ashoke Pandit, Pallavi Joshi, Manoj Joshi and Biswajit Chatterjee. Their letter starts with subject: "Against selective outrage and false narratives".

"An open letter, which has been published on July 23, 2019 and addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has astonished us. Forty-nine self-styled guardians and conscience keepers of the nation and of democratic values have once again expressed selective concern and demonstrated a clear political bias and motive," the letter reads.

Bollywood actor John Abraham described as "ridiculous" the Maharashtra government's decision to cut down 33 hectares of green carpet for the development of the Metro 3 car shed in Mumbai.

The actor expressed his concern over the water crisis when he made the comment, during the trailer launch of his upcoming film Batla House on Wednesday.

Also Read:?"Batla House" releases the official trailer which is going to unveil the truth

"In this situation, when Maharashtra Government has decided to cut down 33 hectares of greenery at Arey Milk Colony, it makes me wonder if we are heading towards the right direction. I am opposed to the coastal road and 33 hectares of land being cut!"

"It is ridiculous to see how they are displacing animals, trees as well as people living in these areas for metro rail," he added.

Present with John Abraham were his co-stars Mrunal Thakur and Nora Fatehi, along with...

Bollywood's veteran action director Veeru Devgan, father of actor Ajay Devgn, died here on Monday, family sources said. He was 85.

Veeru Devgan breathed his last on Monday afternoon at a hospital here due to age-related issues, according to a source.

Apart from directing action sequences, he had directed the 1999 film "Hindustan Ki Kasam", starring Ajay and megastar Amitabh Bachchan.

The funeral will be held here at the Vile Parle West Crematorium on Monday evening.

"Sad to know that veteran action director Veeru Devganji is no more. He was a genius in choreographing fights on the big screen when there were no facilities available. My heartfelt condolences to Ajay Devgn and the entire family," filmmaker Ashoke Pandit tweeted.

"Rip Veeru Devganji. A legend of Hindi cinema. Left his mark at a time when 'pure action' without VFX was the order of the day. Heartfelt condolences to Ajay Devgn and Kajol.

Members of the Indian film fraternity, including veterans like Asha Bhosle and Rajinikanth, congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the Bjp-led coalition registered a landslide victory in the Lok Sabha elections.

Besides Asha Bhosle and Rajinikanth, younger talent, like Sonu Sood, Varun Dhawan and Riteish Deshmukh, also congratulated Modi for the "fantastic win".

Here's what they tweeted:

Asha Bhosle: The Indian electorate has voted wisely. Congratulations to Honourable Pm Modi, Nda and all Bjp party cadres who have worked tirelessly to take our country into a Golden Age that is long overdue. Jai Hind.

Paresh Rawal: Had said earlier and will repeat again -- Sardar Patel had Unified India and Narendra Modi will not let it disintegrate. Relax India, we are truly in safe hands.

Rajinikanth: Respected dear Narendra Modiji. Hearty congratulations... You made it! God bless.

Dharmendra Deol: Achhe din yaqeenan aayenge (Good days will certainly come...

Actress Hina Khan says she is a "proud outsider" who will continue working hard to make her own place, after a scribe commented on her appearance at the Cannes Film Festival.

"Cannes has suddenly become Chandivali Studios kya?" a magazine editor posted in an Instagram story, which drew ire from a host of TV fraternity members who supported Hina and her journey whole-heartedly.

"I was persistent, I am constant and I will be efficient again and again and again. Don't know where I belong, don't know if I have to, as the place doesn't define me. Because as always I will work my *** off and I will make my own place. My promise, a proud outsider from my Chandivali Studios," Hina tweeted.

The "Kasautti Zindagii Kay" actress made a sparkling debut at the Cannes red carpet in a gown by Lebanese designer Ziad Nakad. Known for her roles in shows...

Virender Sehwag, Harbhajan Singh, Mohammad Kaif and Suresh Raina (all cricketers) stopped the shooting of an advertisement to lend their support to a two-hour protest against the Pulwama terror attack on February 14, organised by artistes and technicians belonging to 24 film associations, at Filmcity in Goregaon here on Sunday.

Spear-headed by the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (Fwice), protesters also cautioned filmmakers against working with Pakistani talent or releasing their films in Pakistan.

"The federation won't allow Pakistani artistes to work in Indian films. Also, we won't let producers release their films in Pakistan. The entire trade (with Pakistan) will be called off as far as the film industry is concerned," Fwice chief advisor Ashoke Pandit told Ians.

"One of the reasons why we have banned (filmmakers from working with Pakistani talent) is that none of the Pakistani artistes have condemned the massacre. We hope the producers, distributors and music...

An ostensibly practical move to provide employment to homeless displaced Kashmiri Pandits has backfired on producer-director Vidhu Vinod Chopra. According to a report in the newspaper Greater Kashmir, earlier this week in an official communiqué (Rrcm/Dcr/2017-18/1058), commissioner (migrant) relief and rehabilitation, Jammu, asked Kashmiri Pandits residing in migrant camps at Jammu to participate in theRead More

The post Ashoke Pandit lashes out at Vidhu Vinod Chopra appeared first on Bollywood Hungama.

Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, who is currently shooting for his upcoming magnum opus Padmavati, was assaulted by activists of a Rajput community group ‘Karni Sena’ on the sets of his film at Jaigarh fort in Jaipur. He was slapped and manhandled while he was seated in front of the monitor. The crew tried to cover him up but the angry activist’s stills managed to lay their hands on him and also, destroyed the film's equipment. The members of the Karni Sena attacked Bhansali for allegedly having love making scene between Deepika and Ranveer who are portraying the royal queen and the Mughal emperor. Condeming the violent act against the Bajirao Mastani filmmaker, celebrities like Hrithik Roshan, Alia Bhatt, Anurag Kashyap, Karan Johar and others poured in their full support to stand united for the sake of filmmaking and their people working in it. Check out their tweets: Hrithik Roshan...

It looks like the turbulent storm around Dangal girl Zaira Wasim is refusing to pass by. A few days ago, Zaira was trolled and apparently forced to issue an apology on social media platforms for meeting Jammu and Kashmir's Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti who called her the role model for Kashmiri youth. Her open apology sparked an outrage among the people including Bollywood fraternity like Anupam Kher, Javed Akhtar, Renuka Shahane, Ashoke Pandit among others, who came out in full support and sharply criticised the attack on the 16-year-old girl. Even her on-screen father, Aamir Khan appealed people to leave her alone. But it seems like his honest appeal is yet to reach Sports Minister Vijay Goel, who used Zaira Wasim's name for his political gain. Vijay Goel took to Twitter to share a picture of a woman dressed in ‘hijab’ or ‘burkha’ and a dreaded naked woman sitting helplessly inside the cage.

The Dangal girl Zaira Wasim's open apology on Facebook has come out as a shocking news for everyone including the Bollywood film fraternity. The 16-year-old's apology came after she was trolled on social media and was apparently forced to say sorry for meeting Jammu and Kashmir's Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, who called her as the role model for Kashmiri youth. Soon, a full support poured in for Zaira on social media with people asking her whether she was forced to apologize after receiving threats. Even celebrities like Anupam Kher, Javed Akhtar, Ashoke Pandit, Renuka Shahane, Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah among others have sharply criticised the attack on the 16-year-old who came in support for the young actress. And now, Aamir Khan has also appealed everyone to leave her alone and respect the fact she is just a 16-year-old girl trying her best to deal with life.

Veteran actor Om Puri’s sudden demise earlier Friday morning left everyone in a shock. The actor, who was 66 years old, passed away due to cardiac arrest. The news of his sudden demise was confirmed by Ashoke Pandit and Anupam Kher. It seemed like everything was going well for Om Puri as he was shootingRead More

The post Check out: Om Puri on the sets of his last film Tubelight appeared first on Bollywood Hungama.

Veteran actor Om Puri, who did some of the iconic roles and was always outspoken, has passed away. We have learned that the actor suffered a severe cardiac arrest at his residence on Friday morning. Om Puri is survived by his estranged wife Nandita Puri and son Ishaan Puri. Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit who was aRead More

The post Breaking: Om Puri passes away at 66, Bollywood mourns his sudden demise appeared first on Bollywood Hungama.

Om Puri, the prolific Bollywood actor who also starred in several British and Hollywood films, has died. He was 66.

Indian media reported Puri's close friend, filmmaker Ashok Pandit, confirming the actor had died from a heart attack. Pandit later took to Twitter to pass on his condolences. 

Over a career that stretched almost half a century, Puri starred in over 100 films. His craggy features and penchant for taking unusual roles made Puri a critics' favorite, and he gave award-winning performances in the films Aakrosh (1980) and Arohan (1982). In recent years he had roles in more mainstream...

If one has to lookback at the major happenings of 2016, the one thing that tops your mind is the ‘demonetarisation drive’, which was initiated by our Prime Minister Narendra Modi. No sooner it got started, many of the black money found its way out in front of the government. While there have been manyRead More

The post Ashoke Pandit’s next titled Note Down, a short film on demonetarisation appeared first on Bollywood Hungama.

<img class="aligncenter wp-image-658896 size-full" src="http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Fawad-Khan-Mahira-Khan.jpg" alt="Fawad Khan & Mahira Khan" width="620" height="420" /> With the ongoing tension between India and Pakistan over Uri attacks that happened a few days ago, the Indian Motion Pictures Producers' Association (Imppa) on Thursday decided to ban Pakistani artists and technicians from working in India. This decision came after the surgical strikes carried out by Indian Army. Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit, Vice President, Imppa revealed that at a meeting on Thursday, the members of Imppa decided that Pakistani actors and technicians can't be allowed to work in India till matters settle down. He clarified that this ban will be applicable only for new projects and said that they won't stop release of any of the upcoming movies which feature Pakistani actors. The new resolution will be officially passed today. When asked whether Imppa's decision was inspired by Mns' decree, Ashoke Pandit said that the decision had nothing to do with politics. They won’t trouble any filmmaker who has...

<img class="aligncenter wp-image-658896 size-full" src="http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Fawad-Khan-Mahira-Khan.jpg" alt="Fawad Khan & Mahira Khan" width="620" height="420" /> With the ongoing tension between India and Pakistan over Uri attacks that happened a few days ago, the Indian Motion Pictures Producers' Association (Imppa) on Thursday decided to ban Pakistani artists and technicians from working in India. This decision came after the surgical strikes carried out by Indian Army. Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit, Vice President, Imppa revealed that at a meeting on Thursday, the members of Imppa decided that Pakistani actors and technicians can't be allowed to work in India till matters settle down. He clarified that this ban will be applicable only for new projects and said that they won't stop release of any of the upcoming movies which feature Pakistani actors. The new resolution will be officially passed today. When asked whether Imppa's decision was inspired by Mns' decree, Ashoke Pandit said that the decision had nothing to do with politics. They won’t trouble any filmmaker who has...

Bollywood celebrities like Shah Rukh Khan, Shekhar Kapur, Riteish Deshmukh and Adnan Sami have offered condolences to the families of the Uri attack martyrs and demanded a strong action against the attackers.

Terrorists sneaked into an army camp here in Jammu and Kashmir early on Sunday and slaughtered 17 soldiers in the worst attack in a decade on a military centre in the state.

According to military officials, over two dozen soldiers were also injured in the audacious attack that left all four heavily-armed militants who barged into the camp near Uri town at 5.30 a.m. dead after two-and-half hours gun battle.

Apart from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other political leaders, various Bollywood celebrities have also condemned the attack on Twitter.

Here’s what the celebrities tweeted:

Shah Rukh Khan: Saddened to hear of the cowardly attack in Uri. Prayers for the families of our martyred soldiers. And may the terrorists be punished soon.

It seems like the controversies surrounding Anurag Kashyap and Ekta Kapoor's upcoming drug drama Udta Punjab is not going to stop anytime soon. The film has created a major buzz since the trailer released. It took a drastic turn when the Censor Board of Film Certification (Cbfc) ordered over 90 cuts in the film over the use of abusive language and drug menace. Not only that, they have also ordered to remove all the references of the Punjab from the film and the title. This didn't go well with the makers of the film and decided to protest against censor board chief, Pahlaj Nahlani. A press conference was held that including lead actors of Udta Punjab Shahid Kapoor and Alia Bhatt and many filmmakers from the Bollywood. The makers of the film addressed the controversy surrounding the film and how the cuts ordered will completely destroy the entire film. Mukesh...

After the Up government welcomed filmmakers to come and shoot movies in the state, we now hear that Bihar too wants to join the list. In fact, the Bihar Government is ready to provide complete cooperation from their side to the filmmakers who want to shoot there.

For the same, it is being said that a few of these government authorities like Minister of Art and Culture Shiv Chandra Ram, Development Commissioner of Bihar Shishir Sinha, Managing Director - Bihar State Film Development and Finance Corporation, Ganga Kumar among others will be arriving in Mumbai for a meeting with the film representatives. Ashoke Pandit, filmmaker and Censor Board member revealed that the Indian Film and Television Director's Association (Iftda) have decided to hold this meeting in order to understand the possibilities, the obstacles they may face, so that they can enhance the shooting process and make it easier, like the...

Film-making is a process where one constantly learns and hones their craft, whether it is from watching some of the finest films ever made or seeking the advice of film-making luminaries who have left indelible impressions on the film community with their work. Meet The Director Master Class is an attempt by the Indian Film and TV Directors' Association (Iftda) to create a platform where there is a confluence of young aspiring filmmakers and existing greats of Indian cinemawho have made several remarkable films over the years. It is a platform where the film-making community comes together to share ideas and experiences, thereby making for a thoroughly rewarding experience. In the past, Iftda had organized master classes with some of the finest Indian film-makers working today including Padma Shri Mani Ratnam, six-time National Award-winning film-maker, and Aanand L. Rai, director of films like Raanjhaana, Tanu Weds Manu and Tanu Weds Manu Returns...

Yesterday Aamir Khan kicked up a controversy on social networking sites after his statement at a press conference that stated that his wife Kiran Rao had expressed her views on leaving the country. Like any debate in the recent past this statement too sparked off a war of sorts on twitter with the industry being divided with supporters and those who are detesting Khan for his statement. Here are a few tweets that caught out attention:

Sanjay Gupta: "Those Accusing Aamir Khan Of Being Intolerant Pl Have Da Tolerance To Watch Da Whole Interview. Nowhere Does He Say He Wants To Leave India. "That was a disastrous statement for Kiran to make." Aamir Khan's next line after saying that Kiran wants to leave. Hear the full interview."

Vishal Dadlani: "More power to your voice, @aamir_khan Sir! This is Our country, it belongs to All Indians. Not...

The latest James Bond instalment has had its licence to thrill revoked after certification board orders scenes with kissing to be cut by 50%

He is known for his competence with gadgets, guns and members of the opposite sex. But Indian filmgoers heading to see the new James Bond movie, Spectre, may only see the first two after the Central Board of Film Certification (Cbfc) reportedly ordered all scenes involving kissing to be cut by 50% for the local release, according to Variety.

The move – the most recent example of the prudish sentiment of Indian censors – has been criticised by Cbfc board member Ashoke Pandit, who claimed to have been sidelined from the decision-making process and accused the board’s director and Bollywood film-maker Pahlaj Nihalani of being a stooge for the socially conservative Indian prime minister Narendra Modi. Last year, Nihalani directed a music video that glorified Modi.

Continue reading...

After a host of filmmakers, including names like Dibakar Banerjee and Anand Patwardhan, returned various government awards and honours they have received to express solidarity with Ftii students, a few members of the Hindi film fraternity termed it as a “publicity gimmick” and an “insult”.

Anupam Kher, Madhur Bhandarkar and Ashoke Pandit are among those who have called the step — which is also a mark of protest against impediments to freedom of speech and expression in the country — disrespectful.Read More...

Filmmaker Kalpana Lajmi, who has made films like Rudaali and Daman, recently was diagnosed with a malignant tumour on her left kidney due to which she had to undergo some heavy treatment. The director, however, faced a lot of financial crisis owing to the expensive medication and it was Aamir Khan and Rohit Shetty who came to her rescue. Elaborating on the same, Kalpana revealed that after seeing her condition, director Ashoke Pandit and Vinta Nanda contacted Aamir Khan regarding her illness and the actor, despite the hectic schedule of Dangal, decided to take some time out along with his wife Kiran Rao to provide financial aid to Kalpana Lajmi for her ongoing treatment. Simultaneously, another celebrity who decided to lend a helping hand was Rohit Shetty who donated about Rs. 2 lakhs for the director's well-being. From what we hear, Kalpana's friend and colleague Ashoke Pandit is currently in the...

Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association (Iftda) has undertaken an initiative to organize an engaging director’s master class session called ‘Meet The Director’. With aim to bringing together two maters- one who will share his expertise and another who will moderate the session, ‘Meet The Director’ is poised to be an enriching experience.

The very first master class session will be conducted with Anand L. Rai and moderated by renowned film maker Sudhir Mishra. It is scheduled to be held on Sunday, 4th October at Carnival Cinemas, Goregaon.

Commenting on this Iftda program, film maker and social activist, Ashoke Pandit said, “With the initiative of Meet The Director master class sessions, Iftda has extended its activities beyond trade union affairs. We are extremely excited about building this creative property that brings together our talented force of directors to inspire aspiring film makers and create a valuable property for the Iftda library.

While August 15 holds prime importance to the whole of India, there is one more day this year which holds utmost importance to the TV and film fraternity. And that day is August 16, as that's the day when the elections of Iftda (The Indian Film & Television Directors' Association) will take place. Filmmaker and social activist Ashoke Pandit (who is also the acting President of Iftda), spoke excessively to Bollywood Hungama about the upcoming elections. Speaking about the same, he said "At the topmost priority now is the election of Iftda. It's a very important body, under which the directors and the assistant directors are its members. I was heading the organization for the last two terms. We are managing the entire show (elections) this year. The date which will decide the fate is August 16 of this month. The basic idea is to have names in the team those who are capable,...

The court battle between Sanjay Gupta on one side and Vinod Bachchan, Iftpc & Fwice on the other culminated yesterday with the High Court ordering Sanjay Gupta to deposit Rupees Twenty Lakhs in the Court within a specified time period. The Court also stated that in case of default by him in the payments to the Court, the non-co-operation directive instituted against Sanjay Gupta by the Jdsc of the Fwice & Iftpc would once again become operational and the amount deposited till then would be forfeit. The court granted Vinod Bacchan a certain time period to institute legal proceedings to recover the money. It may be recalled that various accusations had been made on Twitter and in the press by the Iftda President Ashok Pandit against the Fwice President Kamlesh Pandey & Gen. Secretary Dilip Pithva casting aspersions on their intent and character. There were also reports in the press of affiliates opposing the Fwice on this matter.

For all those cinema lovers who are planning to catch up on a Bollywood film at 6 pm in a multiplex, you will have to rethink about your plans. The reason being Maharashtra's Culture Minister Vinod Tawde's announcement that the multiplexes should now be screening Marathi films during the prime time from 6pm to 9pm. This decision was taken in the state assembly which was held yesterday.

Tawade reasoned his move stating that when Ashok Chavan was the acting Chief Minister, he had given concessions to multiplexes that the morning time (shows) will be reserved for Marathi cinemas. Tawade added that, he has only changed the same to prime time now, but had not changed the number of shows the multiplexes will have to organize.

Tawade's decision has met with mixed reaction from the Bollywood fraternity. While on one hand, Ritesh Deshmukh termed the decision as 'welcome news', on the other hand,...

There are very few jobs in the world where a comparison to the Taliban could be seen as a compliment or sign of competence. The position at the top of a country's censor board is not one of them. In the last 10 days, Pahlaj Nihalani, the Chairperson of India's Central Board of Film Certification (Cbfc), has been criticized twice for being like the Taliban. On Friday, acclaimed director Vishal Bhardwaj, famous for his rustic and rowdy Shakespearean adaptations like "Omkara" and "Maqbool," bemoaned the Cbfc's recent authoritarian behavior and wondered whether India was going to be turned into Afghanistan. Read More: With Woody Allen's 'Blue Jasmine' Release Canceled, Indian Audiences Are Fed Up With Movie Theater Rules A week before that, Ashoke Pandit, a member of the board, wrote a letter publicly condemning his boss's repressive regime, calling him "solely responsible for the degeneration of the Cbfc.

Following the outcry against Pahlaj Nihalani's list of banned words in films issued on Friday, which includes a long list of expletives, Nihalani spoke out to explain why the list (which includes 13 English and 15 Hindi words) had to be sent out, and to whom. Baffled by the protests Nihalani says, "Firstly, I don't know how the list came out in the public domain. We didn't send out the list to the media or even to members of the censor board. Therefore one board member (Ashoke Pandit)'s hue and cry that he wasn't consulted about the list is not only invalid it is also unethical." The Chairperson says the list of words not to be used in films, was prepared and sent as per the guidelines of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to film producers. "It is meant to provide a safety platform to film producers. These are...

It certainly seems like the Aib controversy is picking up steam each day. After numerous people on twitter venting out their anger at the less than modest show, filmmaker, social activist and censor board member Ashoke Pandit too took to twitter condoning the act. In his highly irate tweets, Pandit supported the Maharashtra government saying, "I support #MaharashtraGovts inquiry into #Aib a porn show on stage." Later venting out further he posted, "Was the script of #Aib which was a stage play approved by the Authorites which approve plays.? Did the police give permission to #Aib even after they knew what B stands for?#Bakchod." Not sparing the show's host Karan Johar, Pandit posted, "Karan Johar could have easily shown his position while performing sex to his mom at home instead of making it public.#Aib Porn Show." On the other hand, Sonam Kapoor who is known for speaking her...

It looks like the All India Bakc..d (Aib)'s troubles over the December 20 'Roast' show featuring Karan Johar, Arjun Kapoor, Ranveer Singh are far from over. The latest in the controversy is the film industry's spokesperson filmmaker Ashok Pandit claiming that the Aib had no official clearance to stage the controversial stage show which has ripped open an entire moral discussion on the social network. Pandit who has lately been appointed as a member of the newly-revamped censor board says that Aib had no clearance for the controversial show. "All staged performances, plays or stand-up comedies in Mumbai have to get permission from the Maharashtra police. They also have to submit their request for permission to the cultural ministry. The Aib has done none of these. They got no bloody clearance to have the show," states Pandit angrily. Pandit says he has no problem with the content of the show being uploaded on Youtube.

Bollywood woke up today to a sad news. The talented actor Sadashiv Amrapurkar is no more. Sadashiv Amrapurkar, who was being treated for lung infection at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital since the last few days, passed away early morning today. Born and brought up in a Marathi Brahmin family, he was fondly called as 'Tatya' by his loved ones. While he was best known for his path breaking roles in films like Sadak and Ardh Satya, he was equally known for his light heated and villainous roles in films like Aankhen, Ishq, Coolie No 1, Gupt: The Hidden Truth to name a few. Bollywood residents took to twitter to express their condolence for this great actor. While Anupam Kher tweeted, "I am so saddened to know about the demise of a fine human being & a wonderful actor Sadashiv Amrapurkar. He was a kind & a learned man. Rip", Ashoke Pandit tweeted, "Sad...

Actor and one of the film industry's foremost spokespersons Dharmesh Tiwari passed away on Wednesday morning in Chandigarh where he had gone to see a play. Raza Murad a close friend of Tiwari called it an irreparable loss for the entire film industry. Said Raza, "He was General Secretary of Cintaa (Cine & Television Artistes Association) for more than 14 years and the uncontested president of the Film Federation Of India for more than a decade. That is some sort of a record. He worked tirelessly for the rights of film workers and actors, fought for their rights fearlessly and stood up for them in times of crisis. I salute his guts, dedication and leadership. The void would remain forever." Adds Ashoke Pandit, "He sacrificed his own career as an actor for the betterment of the film industry. As the President of the Cine Artistes association, he did a fantastic job. He...

New Delhi, March 30: Filmmaker and social activist Ashoke Pandit, who has worked on shows like "Heroine - Zindagi Ke Panno Se" and "Filmi Chakkar", will be honoured in the capital by the All India Kashmiri Samaj.

"Receiving the Kashmir Gaurav Samman by All India Kashmiri Samaj in Delhi. Thanks for all your love and affection," he tweeted Sunday.

All India Kashmiri Samaj is an organisation for Kashmiri Pandits and helps to voice their issues.

Pandit, who has been working for the cause of his community nationally and internationally, also made a documentary based on the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits titled "And the.

While his film Mickey Virus was a surprise hit at the box office, director Saurabh Verma is apparently yet to receive the complete amount for the venture. The director, who had joined hands with Dar Motion Pictures for the film, has now registered a complaint against Dar Motion Pictures with the Indian Films and Television Directors Association (Iftda) for non-payment of dues and also for stopping him from working on other projects. Ashok Pandit, who is the President of Iftda, claimed that Saurabh has been wronged by the production house and they have sent a notice to them which will appear at the dispute committee soon. Extending his support for Saurabh, the filmmaker also stood by the fact that the director should be given the right to make films with other banners if Dar is not ready to make films with him. This is not the first time Dar Motion...

CCTVs are no longer enough to protect producers and directors from the potential threat of being accused by aspirants of sexual misconduct. The alarming buzz doing the rounds in the entertainment industry is a complete ban on all interaction with newcomers. A leading filmmaker known for his high-gloss glamorous passionate films says, "If this can happen to a guy as gentle as Subhash Kapoor it can happen to anyone. I had already made up my mind to keep all interaction with newcomers at the lowest ebb. Now I've decided to completely ban meetings and conversations with aspirants." And we are not talking about only actors. Even aspiring directors, lyricists, musicians and technicians have come to a zero-access stage with established filmmakers. Forget a big break. All hopes of any kind of breakthrough are now broken. The matter of filmmaker Subhash Kapoor's public run-in with starlet Geetika Tyagi has re-opened...