News

Which Film Did Salman Khan Initially Reject Thinking It’ll Better Suit Sunny Deol? ( Photo Credit – Instagram )

Before Salman Khan earned the title of Bollywood’s ‘Bhaijaan’ and became the face of blockbuster action entertainers, he was known for his charming lover-boy roles. But in 2004, the actor surprised his fans with Garv: Pride & Honour, an intense action film where he played a fearless police officer.

Interestingly, the film almost didn’t feature him at all. Director Puneet Issar recently revealed that the Sikandar star initially rejected the film because he believed it belonged more in Sunny Deol’s action-packed world.

Salman’s Initial Hesitation: A “Sunny Deol Genre” Film?

In a recent interview with the YouTube channel Digital Commentary, Puneet Issar shared intriguing details about the making of Garv. He revealed that when he pitched the film to Salman Khan, the actor liked the story but hesitated to commit.

Aamir Khan Credits Salman Khan For The Title Of Dangal. (Photo Credit – Instagram)

Salman Khan is among the most loved superstars, enjoying a massive nationwide fan base. Numerous examples of his generosity have been documented, and another instance came to light when Aamir Khan revealed how Salman Khan helped him secure the title for his film Dangal.

At a press conference, Aamir Khan shared an interesting story about how Salman Khan played a key role in securing the title for his film Dangal. Aamir explained, “There’s something I really need to thank Salman for, and that’s the Dangal title. It wasn’t initially available to us—it was owned by Puneet Issar. I knew Salman was close to Puneet, so I called him on a Monday and asked, ‘Can you help me get this title? Can you arrange a meeting with Puneet?’ Salman, being the supportive friend he is,...

Alia Bhatt recently attened the Met Gala event. She’s known for her elegant style and ability to pull off diverse looks. Here’s what went on behind the scenes hours before her red carpet appearance.

Vogue magazine has shared a behind-the-scenes video of Alia Bhatt prepping for the Met Gala at her hotel room. It shows her getting her hair and makeup done, draping the saree and revealing all about the inspiration behind her look.

The note began with, “It was a call to the Garden of Time – an ode to art and eternity”, and continued, “Timelessness is endless, and we acknowledge that things crafted with time and care, can last forever. In our journey for an Indian interpretation of this universal theme, the outfit took on a life of its own.”

In the video, Alia talks about how well her makeup artiste Puneet B Saini knows her after working together for nine years.

Jai Shri Ram Ramayan’, India’s only Broadway-scale depiction of the Ramayana, is being staged across several cities in the United States.

The show has been written and directed by the father-son duo of Puneet and Siddhant Issar, who also play the roles of Ravan and Ram, respectively, in the show. Others cast in lead roles include Vindu Dara Singh, Payal Goga Kapoor, Shilpa Raizada and Rajeev Surti.

Talking about the show, Siddhant Issar said, “It is a blessing. I feel I have been chosen by Lord Vishnu himself for this. We have staged 30-odd shows of ‘Jai Shri Ram Ramayan’ for audiences ranging from 15,000 to 30,000 across several arenas and stadiums around India. But being chosen to represent Indian culture to the world is something else. It is a privilege.”

He added that it was a huge responsibility for him to represent India by playing Lord Ram in America. “I represent our culture and tradition,...

Actress Sanya Malhotra on Sunday condoled the death of Suhani Bhatnagar, who essayed the role of young Babita Phogat in the 2016 Aamir Khan-starrer biographical sports drama ‘Dangal’. Sanya expressed disbelief at Suhanis demise and extended her condolences to the entire family.”

‘Dangal’ narrates the story of the Haryana sisters Geeta and Babita Phogat, who became India’s first women wrestlers to appear in international competitions and won medals.

Sanya, who started her acting career with Nitesh Tiwari’s directorial ‘Dangal’, portrayed the adult version of Babita Kumari.

The actress posted on her Instagram Stories: “I can’t believe it’s real. There was no one quite like our Suhani. She was so special, so talented, and way too young to have left us so soon. Rest in peace Chotu My deepest condolences to Pooja, Puneet and the entire family.”

‘Dangal’ featured Aamir Khan as their father, Mahavir Singh Phogat, who...

On the occasion of Vijayadashami, actors Aastha Sharma, Puneet Vashist, Raghav Thakur, and Anchal Sahu expressed their greetings for the festival, and shared their memories of the celebration.

Vijayadashami which is also called Dussehra is celebrated every year at the end of Navaratri. It is observed on the tenth day of the month of Ashvin, marking the end of Durga Puja. It is also celebrated to commemorate Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana.

Aastha, who essays the role of ‘Neerja’ in the show ‘Neerja…Ek Nayi Pehchaan’ said: “Dussehra brings back the memories of dressing in traditional clothes and watching Ram Leela with family and friends.”

“We’d also get toy swords and Hanuman ji’s gada and decorate our homes with torans and flowers. On this Dussehra, may the good in us always win, and may any negativity be gone forever,” she added.

Puneet plays the...

On the occasion of Vijayadashami, actors Aastha Sharma, Puneet Vashist, Raghav Thakur, and Anchal Sahu expressed their greetings for the festival, and shared their memories of the celebration.

Vijayadashami which is also called Dussehra is celebrated every year at the end of Navaratri. It is observed on the tenth day of the month of Ashvin, marking the end of Durga Puja. It is also celebrated to commemorate Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana.

Aastha, who essays the role of ‘Neerja’ in the show ‘Neerja…Ek Nayi Pehchaan’ said: “Dussehra brings back the memories of dressing in traditional clothes and watching Ram Leela with family and friends.”

“We’d also get toy swords and Hanuman ji’s gada and decorate our homes with torans and flowers. On this Dussehra, may the good in us always win, and may any negativity be gone forever,” she added.

Puneet plays the...

New Delhi, Sep 21 (Ians) Expressing heartfelt gratitude to his well-wishers and fans, megastar Amitabh Bachchan said he is forever grateful to them for praying for his health and recovery when he suffered an injury during the shoot of ‘Coolie’.

The 1983 action comedy film ‘Coolie’ is directed by Manmohan Desai and written by Kader Khan. The film stars Amitabh Bachchan as Iqbal Aslam Khan, a railway coolie, who was separated from his mother Salma (Waheeda Rehman) due to Zafar’s (Kadar Khan) obsession with her that causes the destruction of her family and her mental breakdown.

Years later, fate unites her sons, Iqbal and Sunny (Rishi Kapoor) and they set out to save Salma from Zafar’s captivity. It also stars Rati Agnihotri, Shoma Anand, Suresh Oberoi and Puneet Issar.

The film is known for a fight scene with Puneet, during which Bachchan had a near-fatal injury due to a miscalculated jump.

New Delhi, Sep 21 (Ians) Expressing heartfelt gratitude to his well-wishers and fans, megastar Amitabh Bachchan said he is forever grateful to them for praying for his health and recovery when he suffered an injury during the shoot of ‘Coolie’.

The 1983 action comedy film ‘Coolie’ is directed by Manmohan Desai and written by Kader Khan. The film stars Amitabh Bachchan as Iqbal Aslam Khan, a railway coolie, who was separated from his mother Salma (Waheeda Rehman) due to Zafar’s (Kadar Khan) obsession with her that causes the destruction of her family and her mental breakdown.

Years later, fate unites her sons, Iqbal and Sunny (Rishi Kapoor) and they set out to save Salma from Zafar’s captivity. It also stars Rati Agnihotri, Shoma Anand, Suresh Oberoi and Puneet Issar.

The film is known for a fight scene with Puneet, during which Bachchan had a near-fatal injury due to a miscalculated jump.

New Delhi, Sep 6 (Ians) Actors Kritika Singh Yadav, Puneet Vasishtha, Raghav Thakur and Anchal Sahu have extended their greetings on the occasion of Janmashtami, and shared their childhood memories of the festival.

Kritika essays the role of Pratiksha in ‘Pyaar Ke Saath Vachan Dharampatnii’.

Talking about the festival, she said: “Today, as we celebrate Lord Krishna’s birth, I think about the lessons he has taught us about righteousness and compassion. As a kid, I used to participate in the school skit and dress up as Radha.”

“My family has taught me the value of love, humility, and selflessness that he personified. As a devoted Krishna bhakt, I find solace and inspiration in his teachings, guiding my path towards a life filled with love and virtue,” said the actress.

Puneet portrays the role of Narad in ‘Shiv Shakti – Tap Tyag Tandav’. He said: “Janmashtami is one of my favourite festivals...

New Delhi, Sep 4 (Ians) Actor Siddhant Issar, who is playing ‘Tarkasur’ in the show ‘Shiv Shakti – Tap Tyag Tandav’, thanked his father Puneet Issar for being his biggest cheerleader, and guru.

Magnum opus ‘Shiv Shakti-Tap Tyag Tandav’ revolves around two of the revered deities –Shiv and Shakti. It traces their journey of duty, sacrifice, and separation that leads to tap, tyag, and tandav. The show is a grand depiction of the universe’s first love story between Lord Shiva and Goddess Sati.

Siddhant is seen as ‘Tarkasur’, the son of Vajranga and Vajrangi. He dons a unique look curated to signify the demon king’s enigmatic and evil energy.

Siddhant is the son of Puneet Issar, who is known for his portrayal of Duryodhana in B R Chopra’s television series ‘Mahabharat’.

Talking about his father, Siddhant shared: “I would like to thank my father Puneet on ‘Teacher’s Day’. He’s my biggest cheerleader,...

Actor Puneet Vasishtha, who is playing the role of Narad in mythological magnum opus ‘Shiv Shakti- Tap Tyag Tandav’, said that it is an honour to play the role of the greatest sage known to humankind.

The show revolves around two of the most venerated deities- Shiv and Shakti. It outlines their journey of duty, sacrifice, and separation that leads to tap, tyag, and tandav. The show portrays the magnificent portrayal of Lord Shiv and Goddess Sati’s first love story.

Puneet spoke about why he chose to play this mythological character: “As a genre and way of life, mythology is very close to my heart. It is an honour to play the role of the greatest sage known to humankind. He had the ability to travel anywhere in the universe. We worship Narad Muni for his intelligence, knowledge, and devotion to Lord Vishnu. He is mischievous and not afraid...

The announcement of the launch of a controversial piece of music by content creator and ex-Bigg Boss Ott 2 contestant Puneet Superstar, who joined forces with Manish Sharma, has taken a dig at the controversial reality show. With the official launch of the song titled ‘Big Boss’, Puneet, Manish and Amit combine their artistic prowess to craft a song exclusively for the iconic reality show, Bigg Boss.

Puneet said: “Everything I do ignites a conversation, with this song I want to reach out to people and narrate my side of the story. And like I always say Puneet Superstar star tha, star hai aur star rahega.”

In a typical Puneet Superstar style, the lyrics of the song go: “Lala Lala Lori Hai, Bigg Boss Ko Tension Ho Rahi Hai.” Puneet, with his distinctive artistry and uncompromising approach, has used the power of music to voice his perspective.

The song addresses the...

New Delhi, Aug 16 (Ians) Actor Siddhant Issar, who is playing ‘Tarkasur’ in the show ‘Shiv Shakti – Tap Tyag Tandav’, said his father Puneet Issar is his biggest inspiration, and he is proud of taking his legacy in the mythological genre ahead.

Magnum opus ‘Shiv Shakti-Tap Tyag Tandav’ revolves around two of the revered deities –Shiv and Shakti. It traces their journey of duty, sacrifice, and separation that leads to tap, tyag, and tandav. The show is a grand depiction of the universe’s first love story between Lord Shiva and Goddess Sati.

Siddhant is seen as ‘Tarkasur’, the son of Vajranga and Vajrangi. He dons a unique look curated to signify the demon king’s enigmatic and evil energy. The show will capture Tarkasur undergoing arduous penance for a long time to wield the power to defeat Indra and the Devas and conquer Swarg Lok. A legendary chapter will unfold...

Mumbai, Aug 14 (Ians) Actress Palak Purswani, who is known for her work in ‘MTV Splitsvilla’ Season 7, ‘Yeh Rishtey Hain Pyaar Ke’, ‘Meri Hanikarak Biwi’, ‘Ek Aastha Aisi Bhee’, ‘Badii Devrani’, and ‘Bade Bhaiyya Ki Dulhania’, and also appeared on ‘Bigg Boss Ott 2’, is all set for the Grand Finale of the streaming counterpart of the reality show.

Palak took to the stories section of her Instagram on Monday and shared a photo collage as she got ready for the ‘Bigg Boss Ott 2’ grand finale. She wrote on the pictures, “Let’s get finale ready (sic)”.

Palak was evicted from the show on 25 June. She became the second contestant to be eliminated from the ‘Bigg Boss Ott 2’ house. Prior to her eviction, Instagram influencer Puneet Superstar was the first contestant to be evicted from the ‘Bigg Boss Ott 2’ house. Puneet got evicted within 24 hours after he violated the norms of the ‘Bigg Boss Ott 2’ house.

New Delhi, Aug 1 (Ians) Microsoft on Tuesday announced that former senior Aws executive Puneet Chandok will be appointed as the Corporate Vice President of Microsoft India and South Asia.

Effective from September 1, he will assume the operational responsibilities from Anant Maheshwari.

Supported by a strong leadership team, Chandok will oversee the integration of Microsoft’s businesses across South Asia, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, further boosting the company’s presence in the region.

Ahmed Mazhari, President, Microsoft Asia, said that Chandok has a strong track record of building and growing technology businesses and leveraging technology to deliver impact and change.

“As we embrace an AI-led future, Puneet’s leadership will play a vital role in ensuring Microsoft’s ongoing success in South Asia, and I extend my thanks to Anant Maheshwari for setting us on a growth path,” Mazhari added.

Chandok joins Microsoft from Aws, where he...

Mahir Pandhi may only take on select projects, but he always manages to impress with his performances. He happens to be one of the few actors in the television arena who is willing to take on diverse roles and experiment with different genres. Blame his appealing looks and extraordinary talent, the ambitious actor has triumphed in the hearts of millions with his stint in shows like Choti Sarrdaarni, Mx Player’s web series ‘Pawan & Pooja’ and Alt Balaji’s web series ‘Bebaakee’. He also emerged as the winner of Top Model India in 2018.

Mahir has been receiving rave reviews for his impressive acting stint in Jee Karda, streaming now on Amazon Prime.

While Mahir possesses all the elements to slip into any character with a lot of ease, his newest show Vanshaj which sees him playing the role of Digvijay Mahajan has taken the fans by surprise to see him play a grey shade.

Comedian Puneet Superstar has shared multiple videos on Instagram after returning from Bigg Boss Ott 2 house. He was eliminated from the house less than 24 hours after the show premiered for his unruly behaviour inside the house.

In one of the vidoes shared on his Instagram page, Puneet talked about Mc Stan, winner of Bigg Boss 16, who was a panelist on the show’s premiere episode.

“Bigg Boss jaae bhaad ki bhatti mein. Saala mujhe kisi ki zaroorat nahi hai. Puneet Superstar star tha, star hai aur star rahega.

Aur main ye batana chahta hu ki Mc Stan tu saale keede makode, mereko aake lalkaarta hai, meri comedy ke peeche aake lalkarta hai toh mere dosto jaldi se Elo Elo app download karlo, kyuki Puneet Superstar kal shaam ko yahan par 4 baje live aane wala hai aur sabka ek ek karke band bajane wala hai. Toh tum log saale nalle, berozgaar,...

Mumbai, June 18 (Ians) It’s just been a day since contestants entered ‘Bigg Boss Ott 2’ show and love is already in the air. Contestant Pooja Bhatt spoke about what she wants in love while Jia Shankar and Jad Hadid are seen getting flirty.

Jia and Hadid are engaging in playful flirting, and this chemistry might soon give rise to a budding new love as Jia tells Hadid that she likes him.

Expressing her views on love, Pooja feels love is all about making independent decisions without the need for validation from a companion. Her mantra is simple – to follow the heart and pursue what she loves. If a partner opposes, then “bhaad me gaya love.”

In just 24 hours, the first contestant was eliminated from the reality show.

Social media sensation Puneet Superstar was shown the exit door from ‘Bigg Boss Ott 2’ within just 24 hours of his entry in the show.

Mumbai, June 18 (Ians) Social media sensation Puneet Superstar was shown the exit door from ‘Bigg Boss Ott 2’ within just 24 hours of his entry in the show.

Puneet Sharma, popularly known as Puneet Superstar, has been unanimously evicted by the other contestants, leaving everyone shocked. The decision to evict Puneet was made by the housemates in response to his actions inside the house.

As the show progresses, it remains to be seen how this eviction will impact the dynamics within the Bigg Boss Ott 2 house and influence the behaviour of the contestants.

The show had its grand premier on Saturday night and has names such as Pooja Bhatt, Jia Shankar, Avinash Sachdev, Cyrus Baroacha and Falaq Naaz among many others.

‘Bigg Boss Ott’ Season 2 airs on JioCinema.

–Ians

dc/kvd...

Storyteller-actor Sudhanshu Rai who is well-known for his repertoire of projects such as ‘Chaipatti’, ‘Detective Boomrah’ and ‘Chintaa Mani’ will next be seen in his upcoming sci-fi thriller film. Helmed by director Puneet Sharma, a major portion of the film has been shot in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh. Sudhanshu Rai will be sharing the big screen with notable actors such as Sourabh Raaj Jain, Hiten Tejwani, Shobhit Sujay and Manisha Sharma.

Giving insights about the shooting and his experience and challenges on set, he said: “I play the protagonist of the film who traverses through both urban as well as rural landscapes, and the series of events that unfold in these settings from the core of this enthralling thriller. It weaves together the story as well as other distinct characters in the film, of which some are even larger than life.”

He added: “As a filmmaker as well as an actor,...

Mumbai, June 7 (Ians) Playback singer Papon, who is known for tracks like ‘Moh Moh Ke Dhaage’, ‘Bulleya’ and several others, has lent his voice to the track ‘Woh Kahani’ from the upcoming film, ‘1920 Horrors of the Heart’.

The singer revealed that during the recording of the song, filmmaker-producer Mahesh Bhatt visited the studio to monitor the recording as the latter has a profound understanding and keen interest in the music of his productions.

The filmmaker-producer also guided Papon with regard to the emotions that were needed to be incorporated in the track.

‘Woh Kahani’ has been composed by Puneet Dixit, with lyrics penned by Shweta Bothra. The song portrays the feelings of separation and longing for loved ones. Papon’s soulful vocals convey the emotions of love and loss.

Speaking about the song, Papon said: “It’s always a wonderful experience to sing a song like this. I truly had...

Mumbai, April 22 (Ians) Veteran actor Puneet Issar, who is best known for his role of Duryodhana in B. R. Chopra’s ‘Mahabharat’, will now be seen essaying a patriarch Bhanupratap in the new show ‘Vanshaj’.

Talking about his role, Puneet said: “As one of the living elders of this family who has witnessed the ascent of the empire, Bhanupratap has held it together and prevented it from crumbling despite the undercurrent of family dynamics.”

Puneet has been part of a number of films and TV shows. He acted in films like ‘Chandra Mukhi’, ‘Prem Shakti’, ‘Ram Jaane’, ‘Border’, ‘Refugee’, ‘Krrish’, ‘Bachna Ae Haseeno’, ‘Ready’, among others. He was also part of TV shows such as ‘Param Vir Chakra’, ‘Bharat Ek Khoj’, ‘Junoon’, ‘Noorjahan’, ‘Choti Sarrdaarni’, ‘Bigg Boss 8’, and many more.

The 63-year-old actor further said that the values and ideals of his on-screen character are quite relatable and he personally finds a connection with Bhanupratap.

The choices might vary, but there is probably no one who does not enjoy music. It is also one of those industries or creative space that is constantly evolving. Creator, composer and singer Puneet Dixit who has been roped in to compose the music for the upcoming sequel of ‘1920’ talks about the trends that he has noticed recently.

The digitalisation of music has changed the industry. “Digitalisation is good to save time and effort. But if we stop using Indian style then this is not good for the future us. We have n numbers of instruments in every culture in India, and digitalisation is killing it,” he adds.

On the major trends he has noticed in Bollywood music, Puneet says, “Getting back to Bollywood classical Indian fusion music can bring back the trend. The new generation is not at all aware of Indian musical history. They need to be educated about it.

Back in 2008, watching Vikram Bhatt’s period drama ‘1920’ when Puneet Dixit was in school, he never imagined that he would one day compose the music for the film’s sequel. The composer has worked on many projects, he finds this project special for his career.

“I was in school when the first installment of the ‘1920’ movie was released. I never thought that I would do music as a part of this franchise as an independent music composer. This is what makes this project very special to me. It’s like a dream come true,” he said.

However, the project has also been full of challenges. “The special thing in this film is to have both Vikram Bhatt and Mahesh Bhatt together. It’s a franchise and people already know about how well the other sequels of ‘1920’ movies have fared at the box office. The audience has already seen the...

Lyricist and writer Puneet Sharma, after penning songs for the recently released ‘Doctor G’, is now set for his next film ‘Woh Ladki Hai Kahan’, featuring Taapsee Pannu and Pratik Gandhi, besides music composed by Amit Trivedi.

Talking about ‘Woh Ladki Hai Kahan’, Sharma said: “Since the film is drama comedy, there were many different situations, opportunities for writing diverse songs. I feel that contemporary songs these days have started losing touch with the story of the film. Connection of the song with the story isn’t considered necessary anymore.”

However, he said that the chances to write songs that reflect the story as well, which become a prominent part of the story and film making, are becoming really rare.

“Fortunately, this movie gave me such a chance, and I tried my best to portray facets of the story in my lyrics, either directly, or indirectly. The film also has an emotional number,...

Father son duo comes with historical Hindi play ‘Jai Shri Ram Ramayan’ featuring Puneet Issar, Siddhant Issar, Vindhu Dara Singh, Yashodhan Rana and Samiksha Bhatnagar on 20th November at St. Andrews Auditorium, Bandra @ 6.30pm. ‘Jai Shri Ram Ramayan’ play is written and directed by father and son duo Puneet and Siddhant Issar. The entire play is depicted from Bhagwan Shri Ram’s perspective. The entire story of the ‘Ramayan’ in a concise form of 3 hours with 12 original tracks, live action and dance. The father-son duo of Puneet Issar and Siddhant Issar are playing the role of Ram and Raavan. The play highlights complete Ramayana with more intense dialogues, special effects, rich sets and costumes.

An elated Puneet Issar says, “I had played Raavan, Duryodhana roles in reel and real. My journey has showcased all different paths and their spiritual journey. It was a magnificent experience. The whole play is written...

Eortv’s latest offering is a web series called ‘You Complete Me’ features Luviena Lodh & Punit in lead roles. Directed by Deepak Pandey, the show is gearing up for a release. The show is set around a workspace and office culture that supports and hires people from the LGBTQ community.

You Complete Me also features a few bold scenes, where lead actors Luveina and Puneet get intimate. Actress Luviena spoke about her steamy intimate scene with her onscreen partner played by Puneet. She spoke as to how an actor has to go through some prep work and mind-chatter before filming such intimate sequences.

When asked if she was hesitant about intimate scenes in the show, she said, “It is all about preparation, in fact these intimate scenes are on the contrary very technical in reality while shooting. I thank our Director Deepak Pandey ji for giving us that time and...

Releasing tomorrow, Friday January 24th, is the Remo D’Souza directed dance film Street Dancer 3D. The movie is built around street dance face-off between two teams – one led by Shraddha Kapoor’s character Inayat called the ‘Rule Breakers’ and the other one led by Varun Dhawan’s character Sahej team ‘Street Dancers.’

Varun Dhawan is once again all set to blow you away with his dancing skills. Add to the excitement of the film is that his crew of dancers is some of the absolute best in India today!

The ‘Street Dancer’ team of Varun Dhawan has India’s most lovable dancers who have become household names like- Dharmesh, Raghav Juyal, Sushant Pujari, Pravin Bhosale, Prashant Shinde, Chandani and Punit J Pathak who also plays Varun Dhawan’s brother in the movie.

Varun’s camaraderie with his team is equally good on and off-screen. The actor shares, “My team is a family to me now.