Category: Entertainment

Prabhas–Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit to Hit Screens in March 2027!

Hyderabad, May 6 (BNP): The makers of Spirit, starring Prabhas, have confirmed that the film will release as scheduled in March 2027.

Putting an end to speculation around delays, the production team announced that the project is progressing as planned, with shooting and post-production timelines on track. The update has come as a relief to fans eagerly awaiting the much-anticipated film.

Directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, Spirit is one of the most talked-about upcoming projects in Indian cinema. While details about the storyline remain under wraps, the film is expected to feature Prabhas in a powerful and intense role.

The makers stated that further updates, including teasers and promotional material, will be released in due course as the film moves closer to completion.

Isha Ambani Stuns in Gaurav Gupta Couture Saree at Met Gala 2026

New York, May 6 (BNP): Isha Ambani made a notable appearance at the Met Gala 2026 in a custom couture ensemble designed by Gaurav Gupta, celebrating Indian craftsmanship on one of the world’s biggest fashion stages.

 Her outfit featured a handwoven saree crafted with gold threads and intricate detailing inspired by traditional Indian art forms. The ensemble was created by over 50 artisans and took more than 1,200 hours to complete, incorporating techniques such as zardozi, aari embroidery, and hand-painted motifs.

A key highlight of the look was the blouse, embellished with over 200 diamonds from Nita Ambani’s personal jewellery collection. The design combined heirloom pieces with contemporary couture, reflecting a blend of personal heritage and artistic craftsmanship.

She completed the look with a sculpted cape, diamond jewellery, and traditional accessories, adding to the grandeur of the ensemble. Ambani also carried a symbolic mango accessory, which she described as a meaningful and personal element of her outfit.

Her appearance at the event highlighted the global spotlight on Indian design and craftsmanship, showcasing the fusion of tradition and modern luxury on an international platform.

Shashi Shekhar Vempati Named Chairperson of CBFC

Mumbai, May 6 (BNP): The government has appointed Shashi Shekhar Vempati, former CEO of Prasar Bharati, as the new Chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification (Central Board of Film Certification).

He takes over from Prasoon Joshi, who has recently been assigned the role of Chairperson of Prasar Bharati.

An alumnus of Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Vempati is also an author and co-founder of AI4India Org, an initiative working to expand access to artificial intelligence technology in India.

His appointment is expected to guide the CBFC’s role in film certification and regulatory oversight with renewed focus and leadership.

Kareena Kapoor Khan Leads Race Opposite Salman Khan in Raj & DK’s Upcoming Superhero Film!

Mumbai, May 5 (BNP): Speculation is mounting around Salman Khan’s upcoming superhero project with filmmaker duo Raj & DK, as Kareena Kapoor Khan emerges as the frontrunner for the female lead, reportedly overtaking earlier buzz around Samantha Ruth Prabhu.

According to industry sources, Kareena Kapoor Khan is currently in advanced discussions for the yet-untitled film and has shown strong interest in the role. Reports suggest that Salman Khan has personally facilitated discussions, further strengthening her position for the project.

If finalised, the film will mark the reunion of Salman Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan, one of Bollywood’s most popular on-screen pairs, who last appeared together in Bajrangi Bhaijaan. Their previous collaborations, including Kyon Ki, Main Aur Mrs Khanna, and Bodyguard, continue to enjoy strong audience recall.

Backed by Atul Agnihotri in association with Mythri Movie Makers, the film is envisioned as a large-scale superhero spectacle. Salman Khan is expected to portray a unique role of an ageing superhero drawn back into action, promising a blend of stylised action and humour—hallmarks of Raj & DK’s filmmaking.

The project is expected to go on floors around October–November 2026. Prior to this, Salman Khan is engaged in an action entertainer directed by Vamshi Paidipally, scheduled for release during Eid 2027.

Notably, the upcoming film will also mark Raj & DK’s return to the big screen nearly a decade after their last theatrical release, A Gentleman, further heightening anticipation around the project.

Indian Heritage and Contemporary Design Shine at Met Gala 2026

New Delhi, May 5 (BNP): Indian art, heritage, and modern design took centre stage at the Met Gala 2026, as several Indian celebrities showcased carefully curated ensembles inspired by the country’s rich cultural and artistic legacy.

The event witnessed strong references to classical and contemporary Indian art forms, drawing inspiration from figures such as Raja Ravi Varma, Ajanta cave paintings, and modern artists like Subodh Gupta. Traditional craftsmanship, intricate embroidery, and gemstone detailing were prominently featured across several high-fashion looks.

Prominent appearances included Isha Ambani in a diamond-studded ensemble inspired by traditional draping styles, Sudha Reddy adorned with an elaborate high-value jewellery piece, and Ananya Birla wearing a striking metallic-themed accessory designed by Subodh Gupta.

Filmmaker Karan Johar made a statement in a cape inspired by classical Indian paintings, while philanthropist Natasha Poonawala and members of Jaipur’s erstwhile royal family showcased couture designs blending heritage and contemporary fashion. Designer Manish Malhotra also presented a fusion look featuring traditional tailoring with modern artistic elements.

The showcase highlighted the growing global influence of Indian design, craftsmanship, and cultural storytelling in international fashion platforms.

South Star Vijay Remains Focused on Tamil Cinema, Keeps Distance from Hindi Films

May 5 (BNP): Leading South Indian actor Vijay continues to focus his career on Tamil cinema and has largely stayed away from working in Hindi films.

Over the years, the actor has built a strong presence in the Tamil film industry, earning wide popularity through regional projects and maintaining a consistent connection with his core audience.

His career choices reflect a sustained preference for South Indian storytelling, with a strong emphasis on Tamil-language films. This approach has helped him maintain a significant fan base and commercial success in the regional market.

Industry reports suggest that Vijay remains committed to working primarily within Tamil cinema, reinforcing his position as one of the prominent figures in the South Indian film industry.

Bob Nguyen ACS wins Milli Award for 2026 Australian Cinematographer of the Year at the 56th ACS National Awards

ADELAIDE, 4 May 2026 – At this year’s Australian Cinematographers Society (ACS) 56^th National Awards in Adelaide, it was Bob Nguyen ACS who won the prestigious Australian Cinematographer of the Year Milli Award. Nguyen also won a Gold Tripod in the Feature Films – Budget Under $5m category for Ky Nam Inn.

Bob Nguyen ACS accepting his awards by video link

Nguyen is a critically acclaimed and highly awarded member of the Australian Cinematographer’s Society and an extremely experienced celluloid cinematographer. His notable works include SUT and SONG LANG, with SONG LANG garnering more than 30 international awards. In 2019 Nguyen won the Golden Tripod and the prestigious Milli Award for Australian Cinematographer of the Year for the first time. Bob’s cinematography on BLACK HEN and MUOI – THE CURSE RETURNS also earned him double Gold Awards and two additional Golden Tripods at previous ACS National Awards.

On winning the award Nguyen said, “It is a great honour to have won the Milli for the second time, particularly when the standard of cinematography in Australia is so high. I would like to thank the ACS, all of their sponsors for putting on the awards and for everything they do for cinematographers and congratulate all of the other nominees for their excellent work.”

(l-r) Ray Martin AM and ACS national president Brent Crockett ACS

The 2026 56^th ACS National Awards was, as always, in the ever capable and professional hands of host and MC for the evening, Ray Martin AM. Martin, in his inimitable fashion, entertained and guided the full house alongside presenters that included ACS national president Brent Crockett ACS.

Crockett presented Hall of Fame Awards to Mark Wareham ACS and László Baranyai HSC ACS HCA, the Life Membership Award to Richard Chataway ACS and Carolyn Constantine ACS and the John Leake OAM ACS Emerging Cinematographer Award to Emilie Lowe.

Then the Student Cinematography Award went to Jake Frazer for The Native Police and other Gold Tripod winners included Aaron Farrugia who won the John Bowring ACS Station Breaks & Promos for The Block “Heartland”, Maximilian McKay took home the Music Videos award for 21st Century Cool Girl – Chloe Qisha and Haidarr Jones who won the Neil Davis International News award for Gaza Aid Delivery.

The Current Affairs award went to Tom Hancock for Australian Story: Betrayal, The Story Of Hannah Grundy and Dave May ACS won in Entertainment & TV Magazine for Love on the Spectrum U.S. – E7.

The Ron Taylor AM ACS & Valerie Taylor AM Wildlife & Nature award went to Jack Riley and Nick Robinson for The Kimberley S1E1 and Alper Kasap took out the gong for Short Films with KUDUZ.

The Gold Tripod for Drama Series budget under $1m went to Brendan Barnes SASC ACS for Go and the Gold Tripod for Drama Series budget $1m and over went to Nicola Daley ACS BSC for The Handmaid’s Tale.

Then the Feature Films – Budget $5m and over Gold Tripod award went to Stephen Windon ACS ASC for THE ELECTRIC STATE.

The Judges’ Merit Award went to Matthew Davies for Javelin Aerospace ‘In Our Blood’.

ACS national president Brent Crockett ACS

ACS National President Brent Crockett ACS said, “A huge congratulations to Bob Nguyen ACS on being named Australia’s Cinematographer of the Year for the second time. It’s a powerful reflection of Bob’s consistency, craft and extraordinary eye behind the camera. This recognition is thoroughly deserved. My sincere thanks to our industry sponsors, supporters and the South Australian ACS Branch Committee for delivering an outstanding night in Adelaide and congratulations to all award recipients. Australian cinematography continues to stand among the very best in the world and it’s exactly why our talent is so highly sought after here and internationally.”

Other Gold Tripod and Award Winners included:

Serial TV & Comedy Series – Dave Cameron NZCS ACS for Madam S1E1

Branded Content & Advertising – Christian Fitzpatrick ACS for Penta Tequila – Método Penta Quintaesencia

Corporate – Branded Content, Education & Events – Christian Fitzpatrick ACS for Sub-Atmospheric Carbon Neutral Vacuum Distillation

Commercials – Budget under $200K – Jackson England for AMAN – Amankora

Commercials – Budget $200K and over – Jani Häkli for Go Mongolia

Bob Miller ACS Scholarship – Tom Waugh and Tad Errey

Ron Windon ACS Contribution award to Mick Fanning (presented to Mick by Ron’s son Steve Windon ACS ASC)

Images by Sam Oster

Bhubaneswar to Host ‘Shraddhanjali 2026’ — A Musical Tribute to Guru Bauri Bandhu Sethi

Bhubaneswar, April 30: Delhi-based cultural organization Swaranjali is set to bring an evening of classical music and tribute to Odisha’s capital with Shraddhanjali 2026, a commemorative concert dedicated to Guru Late Suramani Bauri Bandhu Sethi.

The event will be held on June 20, 2026, at 5 PM at Gita Govinda Sadan, Jayadev Bhawan, Ashok Nagar, Bhubaneswar. Organized in association with Shreyas Webmedia Solutions, the program aims to honor the legacy of the late guru through a curated lineup of classical performances.

The evening will feature a group vocal presentation by the disciples of Shri Avimanyu Sahoo from Sishuniketan School, Mancheswar. Instrumental highlights include a sitar and sarod duet by Shri Jeeban Prakash Das and Shri Sandeep Rout. Vocal recital by Smt. Bilambita Banisudha and a solo sitar performance by Shri Subrata De are also part of the program.

The event will be anchored by Vidwan Shri Alok Das, adding a narrative touch to the musical proceedings.

Organizers have extended an open invitation to music lovers, patrons of classical arts, and the general public to attend the event and pay tribute to the revered गुरु through music.

For further details and RSVP, interested attendees may contact 9910300319, 8447507053, or 9937001349.

Swaranjali, founded by Subrata De, continues to promote Indian classical music through performances and cultural initiatives across the country, in collaboration with partners like Shreyas Webmedia Solutions.

NCPA’s Mudra Dance Festival 2026 Highlights Young Talent in Indian Classical Dance

Mumbai, Apr 30 (BNP): The National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) has successfully concluded the 2026 edition of its annual Mudra Dance Festival, placing a strong focus on young performers and the future of Indian classical dance traditions.

Held on April 16, 23, and 24 at the Experimental Theatre, the festival also featured its first-ever interschool dance competition on April 20 and 22. Celebrated around International Dance Day, Mudra is known for presenting thematic performances rooted in culture and tradition, with this year’s editions exploring ideas such as motherhood, emotions, colours, and expressive art forms.

A major highlight of the 2026 edition was the “Children’s Edition,” which brought young dancers to the centre stage. The initiative aimed to recognise early-stage learners and provide them with a formal platform to showcase their training, discipline, and artistic growth.

Performances across the festival featured students from several reputed dance institutions, reflecting the depth of classical training and the diversity of styles being nurtured across Mumbai.

The newly introduced Mudra Interschool Classical Dance Competition received an overwhelming response, with participation from more than 75 schools and 115 entries. Students performed in classical styles such as Kathak and Bharatanatyam, along with group and fusion presentations.

Organisers said the initiative is an important step in integrating classical dance into school-level education, encouraging institutions to treat it with the same seriousness as sports and other structured disciplines. The festival also aims to strengthen appreciation for Indian classical arts among younger generations.