8-Page pull out supplement
14 - 17 NOVEMBER
CELEBRA CELEBRATING TING MANISHA KOIRALA
TWO 'Sam Bahadur': 6th Sikh Regiment warmly receives Vicky Kaushal in Delhi
Actor Vicky Kaushal, ahead of the release of his upcoming film ‘Sam Bahadur’, received a very warm and a pleasant welcome from the Indian Army’s 6 Sikh Regiment during his Delhi trip. Doing obstacle training, the actor was seen jumping over fire in dramatic slow motion, the greeting was very ‘warm’ indeed though at the same time, it was a pleasant venture for him. Taking to Instagram, he posted a short reel of himself in the cantonment and wrote: “Must say I got a ‘warm’ welcome by the 6 Sikh Regiment this time during my trip to Delhi for #Sam Bahadur Trailer launch!” The actor had received training from 7 Sikh Regiment for his 2018 military film ‘Uri: The Surgical Strike’ which dealt with 2016 surgical strikes which the Indian Army special forces launched in retaliation against the Pakistan Army’s terrorists who had attacked the base at Uri in Kashmir. Being reminded of his training session during the shoot of ‘Uri’, he added: “In 2018, before we started filming URI, I was trained by the 7 Sikh Regiment. Unki obstacle training
drills ki yaadein taaza ho gayi (Their obstacle training drills have refreshed my memory)… always feels great to get a pat on your back by the real heroes”. Now portraying the legendary Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw in the biopic, the ‘Sardar Udham’ alum has received a very positive response from the Indian Armed Forces for his depiction of the legendary figure in the recently released trailer of the film. During the launch of the film’s trailer in Punjab, the actor was greeted by the 6th battalion of the Sikh Regiment from whom he sought blessings. In addition, he also met with Indian Army Chief of Staff, General Manoj Pande. Featuring some stellar production and praiseworthy set design, VFX, acting, dialogue, and overall aesthetic to suit historical authenticity, ‘Sam Bahadur’ stars Vicky Kaushal, Fatima Sana Shaikh, and Sanya Malhotra in lead roles. Produced by RSVP Movies, the movie is directed by Meghna Gulzar and will hit theatres on 1 December 2023.
I was barefoot: Tara Sutaria reveals not using any body double in 'Apurva Actor Tara Sutaria is set to play a unique role in her upcoming movie 'Apurva,' which will be a refreshing contrast from her gorgeous performances. The actress revealed that she did not use any body doubles and that all the stunts were done by herself in the movie. Sharing her experience doing all the stunts herself, she recalled, "I was barefoot throughout the shoot in Jaisalmer. I was jumping off trains, walking on hot sand, and doing all my stunts without body doubles. I lived on intermittent napping because we were shooting day and night." She added, "There are so many herocentric films but women-oriented films are rare. I'm glad the film chose me. Women possess an innate strength that comes out in the face of adversity. No woman should have to go through this, but as an actor, this role is a privilege." 'Apurva,' set in one of India's most dangerous regions, Chambal, is the story of an ordinary girl who faces enormous odds and would go to any length to survive and live. To fit the role, Tara underwent a radical makeover. The actor refused to take a shower in order to completely embody the aspects of her character in 'Apurva. ' Earlier, Tara took to Instagram to reveal that she went weeks without taking a shower or brushing her hair in order to fully inhabit her role in the movie. She wrote, "I am proudest of APURVA because I filmed every shot in the film myself. No excuses. I've never felt more strength and power than when we filmed...( @nix_bhat I owe a great deal to you for this, sir. I recall not showering for over a week mid-schedule so that I looked and felt as awful as I was meant to; I rolled in mud and ash (this was honestly fun ) and my hair wasn't brushed for weeks on end." Directed by Nikhil Nagesh Bhat, 'Apurva' also stars Rajpal Yadav, Abhishek Banerjee, and Dhairya Karwa. Star Studios presents APURVA, a Cine1 Studios and Star Studios Production, written and directed by Nikhil Nagesh Bhat and produced by Murad Khetani .' Apurva' will be released on Disney+ Hotstar on 15 November.
Janhvi Kapoor, Rajkummar Rao's sports drama 'Mr and Mrs Mahi' to release on this date Finally, the release date for Janhvi Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao-starrer 'Mr and Mrs Mahi' has been locked. Dharma Productions took to their official Instagram and announced the new release date. Along with the post, they wrote, "Two hearts chasing one dream & it's just pitch-er perfect!The field is set for #MrAndMrsMahi, coming to cinemas on 19th April 2024." 'Mr and Mrs Mahi' is a sports drama. The film marks Janhvi and RajKummar's second collaboration after 'Roohi'. The film is directed by Sharan Sharma, who made his directorial debut with 'Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl'. In May this year, after the film's wrap up, Janhvi penned a lengthy note expressing gratitude to the whole team. "2 years since I first picked up my bat. And now we've finally wrapped #MrandMrsMahi.. I thought I'd
wake up today feeling lighter and relieved because we all gave more to this film than we thought was even possible. But I feel kind of empty. Like a blank canvas. I feel like we've been to war and back, and I saw so many heroes in action. @vikrant_yeligeti @abhisheknayar we would have been lost without you'll. And i would have definitely collapsed on day 1 only @manushnandandop sir you carried us on your shoulders and made sure we reached the finish line. @anaygoswamy for making every battle look like a beautiful painting. Our entire AD team!!!! Lead by @deepu_sharma_ @sankyluthra you guys are the real heroes. You'll never gave up, and never stepped down in moments of adversity, you'll rose to every occasion. Fought every battle," she wrote. Heaping praises on Sharan (director), Janhvi added, "@sharanssharma you made sure, no matter how difficult things got, that none of us were compromising on our attempt at excellence. Under the burden of the worlds stress, still pushing, never settling. And along with @mehrotranikhil allowed us to find and create moments of truth and beauty. And gave me Mahima. Despite how hard it's been, I know she has been a gift to me that's meant more than even I'm being able to realise at this point. @rajkummar_rao I am so lucky, to have worked with you and witnessed your genius. "You added magic to our film. My team @rivieralynn @sushmitavankar for keeping me sane. For giving me strength. For lifting me up when I needed it. For having my back always. And making me look cute @ priyanka.s.borkar on and off set support lol. @sheetal_f_khan @tanvichemburkar." She also thanked Karan for believing in her."@karanjohar I hope we've made you proud! Thank you for believing in this film the way that you have. @apoorva1972 . In many ways, waking up this morning felt like a rebirth. Every act of creation is first an act of destruction". It's safe to say at many moments it felt like the grind was destroying us. And had destroyed us, mentally, physically, but I have my faith in what we have created through it. Can't wait for you guys to see it," she added. Meanwhile, Janhvi Kapoor is all set for her upcoming Pan-India film 'Devara'. Helmed by Koratala Siva the film stars Janhvi Kapoor, Jr NTR, and Saif Ali Khan in the lead roles. 'Devara' marks the first collaboration of Janhvi with the 'RRR' actor. RajKummar was recently seen in the series 'Guns & Gulaabs' which is streaming on the OTT platform Netflix.
THREE
“My mother is still so involved in what I wear”: Nicole Kidman During the Planet OMEGA pop-up opening last week, Oscar winner Nicole Kidman discussed how her grandmother and mother have both influenced her personal fashion sense throughout the years. "I love fashion. I've always loved fashion," Kidman told People at the event, which was held at New York City's Chelsea Factory. She added, "I grew up as a little girl with a grandmother who loved fashion and could sew and my mother the same. They loved beautiful clothes. They could make beautiful clothes. I watched them sew, embroider, and knit crochet. And I think when you grow up seeing the people in your household do that, then you love that." "And my mother is still, she's so involved in what I wear," the OMEGA ambassador, who wore a chic black off-the-shoulder Balenciaga gown, explains of her mom Janelle, 83. When asked if her mom weighed in on the black cut-out dress she wore to the CMA Awards show, the Oscar winner, who posed with the train of her dress looped around her wrist, said, "I haven't heard yet. I don't know if that's a good sign!" adding "She didn't text me." Kidman was joined on the red carpet by her husband of 17 years, country singer Keith Urban, who complimented his wife's flamboyant look with his own swagger, wearing a black tie-die shirt with rolled-up sleeves, black trousers and massive black shoes. Kidman is known for her daring fashion choices, and she discussed her decision to wear a small Miu Miu miniskirt and matching bralette on the cover of Vanity Fair's 2022 Hollywood Issue in July, as per People.
In a separate interview with People, the OMEGA ambassador addressed other traditional, treasured artefacts passed down to her from her grandmother. She said, "I think when something from generations come to you, it is very, very special. I have things from my grandmother, and you hold them and when they're not in the world, you still have a piece of them and they chose you to carry that."
Bike chasing scene was the toughest: Salman Khan on most challenging scene in 'Tiger 3' During a recent interaction Salman Khan talked about the most challenging aspect of the 'Tiger 3' shoot. He shared, "The bike chasing scene was the toughest - I think! It was a massive block of shoot and it had to be impactful so Maneesh [director Maneesh Sharma] and I discussed this at length and then collectively we all worked towards achieving this," he said during an exclusive conversation with Variety. The actor further shared, "I quite enjoyed shooting for "Leke Prabhu Ka Naam" in Cappadocia. It is a dance track that I personally love. Katrina and I have been fortunate to have chartbusters that have entertained people across the world and now, "Leke Prabhu Ka Naam" is another track added to that list." When asked what the audience can expect from his film, he told Variety, "Audiences have a connection with Tiger, they have followed his journey, they feel a connection with the characters and this time around the film is more personal, more emotional. Plus, it is releasing on Diwali day, so we are hoping the audiences enjoy the fireworks on the big screen and enjoy this entertainer with their family in theatres." Directed by Maneesh Sharma, 'Tiger 3' stars Salman Khan, Katrina Kaif and Emraan Hashmi in lead roles the film releases in cinemas on 12 November
Amitabh Bachchan extends good wishes to grandson Agastya Nanda for 'The Archies'
Megastar Amitabh Bachchan has extended heartfelt wishes to his grandson Agastya Nanda for his acting debut. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Big B shared the trailer of Agstya's debut film 'The Archies' and wrote, "T 4825 Agastya my love blessings and more .. you carry the torch ably ahead." Apart from Agastya, the Netflix film marks the acting debut of Shah Rukh Khan's daughter Suhana Khan, and producer Boney Kapoor's daughter Khushi Kapoor. Recently the makers unveiled the official trailer of 'The Archies' which has received a good response from fans. 'The Archies', a coming-of-age musical, follows the lives of Archie, Betty, Veronica, Jughead, Reggie, Ethel
and Dilton who will take audiences to the fictional hilly town of Riverdale. The film explores friendship, freedom love, heartbreak and rebellion. The trailer unfolds a musical narrative led by seven charming characters from the beloved Archie comics, steering through the retro alleys of love, friendship, and youthful aspirations. The trailer signs off with a profound message - 'You are never too young to change the world'. 'The Archies' will be out on Netflix 7 December. Meanwhile, Agastya will also be seen alongside legendary actor Dharmendra in the film 'Ekkis'. Helmed by Sriram Raghavan the film will release on 10 January 2025.
FOUR Rachel Zegler shares how she developed 'bond' with Jennifer Lawrence Speaking exclusively to People at the London premiere of 'The Hunger Games', The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, Zegler, 22, opened up about how appearing in the movie spinoff
has brought her close to the Academy Award winner. "I had already filmed it when I had met her and we really just were able to bond over the fact that we know so many of the same people," Zegler told People at the BFI IMAX on London's Southbank. The actress claimed that Lawrence had no idea they had so many mutual connections in 'The Hunger Games' world until that moment, including the director, Francis Lawrence. "One of my good friends is Andrew Barth Feldman, who she just did No Hard Feelings with and, obviously, Francis Lawrence is obsessed with her," Zegler told People. "Everyone who worked on our movies came over from the original trilogy to work on ours." According to People, while Lawrence played the role of protagonist Katniss Everdeen in the first four Hunger Games movies, Zegler portrays the role of Lucy Gray Baird. Set 64 years before
the first 2012 Hunger Games movie, The Ballad of Songbirds And Snakes follows Baird after she's selected as a tribute from District 12 and assigned a young Coriolanus Snow as her mentor for the 10th annual Hunger Games. Speaking to People about not meeting Lawrence before filming, Zegler says it "relieved the pressure and made us feel like we were able to do our own thing." "Though, if she had ever wanted to give me tips, I absolutely would have been open to hearing them," she joked. Zegler also shared with People that she first went to see 'The Hunger Games' over ten years ago in the movie theatre with her mom and sister. "The woman next to my sister had never read the books or seen the film before, and when the mutts came out, she started screaming, 'What's gonna happen next?,' " said Zegler, reported People.
Dwayne Johnson approached to run for the White House Hollywood star Dwayne Johnson has been approached by political parties to run in the next US election. The wrestler-turned-actor had previously discussed the prospect of entering the political arena, and Johnson has now revealed that he's already been approached by political parties about making a run for the White House. During an appearance on the 'What Now? with Trevor Noah' podcast, Johnson shared: "At the end of the year in 2022, I got a visit from the parties asking me if I was going to run, and if I could run." In 2021, a poll revealed that almost half of Americans would support the star if he decided to run for the presidency, reports femalefirst.co.uk. The 51-year-old actor has admitted to being flattered by the support, saying that he was "really honoured" by the result of the poll. He said: "That was an interesting poll that happened and I was really moved by that. I was really blown away and I was really honoured." The actor was shocked by the results of the survey. However, he's refused to reveal which political parties have approached him. The 'San Andreas' actor said: "It was a big deal, and it came out of the blue. It was one after the other, and they brought up that poll, and they also brought up their own deep-dive research." Meanwhile, Dwayne previously revealed that he wants to "unite" America.
The Hollywood star suggested in 2021 that he could run for the White House in a bid to bring the country together. Johnson told 'Sunday TODAY with Willie Geist': "I do have that goal to unite our country and I also feel that if this is what the people want, then I will do that." Despite this, he refused to reveal which party he would represent, after a survey from Piplsay - a consumer trends company - found that 46 percent of Americans would consider voting for him.
“Honoured to bring Radha's story to life”: Mrunal Thakur on being part of war drama 'Pippa' Actor Mrunal Thakur, who is all set to with her upcoming film 'Pippa', recently voiced her excitement about being a part of a film where a female character is given a well-defined arc, challenging the traditional gender norms in the war drama. 'Pippa' tells the gripping and emotional tale of three siblings who, despite being in different roles, come together with unwavering unity to support each other during a time of war. Unlike conventional war films in Hindi cinema, where female characters are often relegated to the sidelines, Pippa offers a refreshing perspective by portraying Radha as a proactive and indispensable force on the front lines. Radha's characte r breaks free from the stereotypes, as she actively participates in the war, utilizing her cryptography skills to make real-time contributions to the battlefield. 'Pippa' holds a special place in Mrunal's heart. The actress said she was instantly captivated by the script, which offered her the opportun ity to portray a strong, intelligent, and resourceful woman who played a pivotal role in the war narrative. Thakur expressed her excitement about being a part of a film where a female character is given a well-defined arc, challenging the traditional gender norms seen in war dramas. Discussing her role, Thakur said, "Radha is a character close to my heart. She represents the resilience and strength of women, not just emotionally, but also intellectually. It was refreshing to see a female character actively involved in the war effort, making significa nt contributions through her expertise in cryptography. Pippa showcas es a different perspective, and I am honoured to bring Radha's story to life" . Recently, makers unveiled a goosebumps-inducing soundtrack titled 'Rampage'. Taking to Instagram, Ishaan treated fans to a song video and captioned it, " The video showcased the Indian Army standing tall, with Ishaan as Capt. Balram Singh Mehta, on a mission to face India's deadliest war. The energetic track, composed by music maestro AR Rahman has foot-tapping, adrenalin-pumping beats that will not only give viewers goosebumps, but also keep them engrossed with the developing storyline. Penned by MC Heam and sung by MC Heam and Krystal, the song evokes a strong sense of patriotism with its fast-rapping beats. The film is a firsthand account of the Battle of Garibpur, during the India-Pakistan war of 1971; a fight that was pivotal in Bangladesh's struggle for independence. Produced by Ronnie Screwvala under the banner of RSVP Movies and Siddharth Roy Kapur's Roy Kapur Films, and directed by Raja Krishna Menon, the film features Ishaan, Mrunal Thakur, Priyanshu Painyuli and Soni Razdan in pivotal roles. Based on the book 'The Burning Chaffees' by Brigadier Balram Singh Mehta, the film is written by Menon, Tanmay Mohan, and Ravinder Randhawa. The title of the film is a tribute to the amphibious war tank called the PT-76 (Palavushi Tanka), popularly known as "Pippa," akin to an empty tin of ghee that smoothly floats on water. This wartime saga narrates a story of patriotism and traces the coming of age of Captain Balram Mehta (essayed by Ishaan) of the 45 Cavalry Tank Squadron. Together, Balram Mehta and the Indian Armed Forces exemplify valour and courage, in a war for the liberation of another country. The war drama is streaming on Amazon Prime from 10 November.
4
FILM FASHION BEAUTY
REVIEW
A DELICIOUS DIWALI TREAT AWAITS AT HARD ROCK CAFE: A MIX OF TASTE AND TRADITION By UMA RAMASUBRAMANIAN Expectations for authentic Indian cuisine rise as Diwali approaches. However, London never fails to take someone by surprise. In the midst of all the holiday excitement, the Hard Rock Cafe in Piccadilly Circus serves up some truly unforgettable treats. The unique Butter Chicken Tacos and the amazing Mango Lassi Martini make this an experience that can’t be put into words. To start, the Butter Chicken Tacos are a culinary masterpiece that combine the flavour of Indian spices with an amazing twist. The first bite fills with the juicy chicken with a mix
a fancy cocktail glass. The rich, velvety texture of the mango lassi mixed so well with the spirited notes of the martini that drinking it was an experience in and of itself. It added a cool and exotic twist that made the taste buds dance and left an unforgettable memory that went beyond the ordinary. This special Diwali menu at the Hard Rock Cafe at Piccadilly Circus really goes above and beyond. The chefs’ skill in the kitchen was shown by their careful attention to detail and skilful mixing of tastes, which pleased the picky Diwali food lovers. It was a celebration of taste and custom, and the
SHINE A LIGHT
For just £12.95, indulge in the mood-lifting Butter Chicken Tacos, which give a rush of flavours in every bite. Meanwhile, at £12.35, the Mango Lassi Martini is a wonderful blend of sweetness and spice with undertones of nutmeg and cinnamon. The Diwali special dish deserves a solid 4 out of 5 stars for its outstanding culinary technique and joyous spirit. It’s a must-try for the holiday season due to its beautiful celebration of tradition and creativity with its exquisite tastes and unique twists.
of delicious tastes. Each taco was packed full of juicy chicken, and the spices added a perfect blend of flavours that stayed long after the last bite. When traditional Indian ingredients were mixed with the modern twist of tacos, it was a culinary revelation that pushed the limits of fusion food. Aside from that, the Mango Lassi Martini was a real surprise! This delicious drink perfectly captured the spirit of the traditional Indian mango lassi while serving it in
experience blended the lively cultural energy with the modern style that is part of the Hard Rock Cafe. If you want to combine a unique culinary adventure with the joyful spirit of Diwali, Hard Rock Cafe at Piccadilly Circus seems like a one stop solution. Get ready for a culinary adventure you’ll never forget that will make you want longer after the party is over.
FIVE
SIX
Manisha Koirala
becomes first Bollywood star to receive double honour in UK Parliament
On Friday 27 October, Asian Standard London hosted the legendary superstar of Bollywood Manisha Koirala, to mark her incredible contribution to the world of cinema and to celebrate her remarkable spirit in overcoming life’s challenges. Her honour in the Houses of Parliament by our Editor in Chief Fatima Patel opened up a catalyst of celebrations, as this then led to further accolades for the Khamoshi star which included an honour Houses of Lords by Baroness Verma, making her the first Bollywood star to receive two accolades in British Parliament within a month. So in this week’s Asian Sunday & Style, we wanted to celebrate Manisha’s remarkable achievements by taking a look back at some of her back-to-back Reel Life with Dr Ridah Khan: I think the greatest song in Indian cinema is Satrangi Re. It’s so poetic it goes through the seven stages of love and the cinematography, the music, the melody, the lyrics. I think the longing and passion Shahrukh Khan has for you. Your natural beauty and your super natural aura you had in this film in this song is unmatchable. When you were making this masterpiece did you ever think back then, because in those you didn’t have the instant reactions from social media. Did you think you were making something this iconic and historical? Manisha: We were loving every bit of it. I’m getting goosebumps talking about it. Even then when we were working for that film. The thing is working with good directors they have a great team and everybody is so involved, so passionate. We actors are actually seen, but there are so many people behind the camera and everybody’s contribution matters a lot and we kind of feed on each other’s energies. We all knew it was going to be something special. Anuj Radhia – Filme Shilmy: The films you have done are
so strong. So when we talk about women empowerment and strong women, but we forget that you can still be strong when you have a grey character. So how much of that definition of women empowerment has altered over the years? Manisha: lot of women are speaking up. A lot of women are empowered and are not ashamed to be empowered. We have dreams and ambition, and we need to own that. So automatically the narratives are changing in cinema and storytelling, because of what’s changing in the society. Anuj Radhia – Filme Shilmy: Dil Se has gained a real cult following over time and it’s so complex in understanding and interpreting the different shades of love. What goes through your mind when you look back at that film now, because that was a very young you?
Manisha: I have mostly gone with my gut instinct and with mani
what kind of a character this girl could be. I ask multiple questions to my director, which I think my directors could get tired of me asking. But I somehow try and understand her subconscious mind. Not consciously of
equality and it’s still not there. So those days we did not even speak about it, but of course everybody felt it. If you see so many of my rebellious interviews – I really used to question the lifestyle. The women were judged harshly, whereas men were given very complimentary term. It has improved a lot, but still a long way to go. Popcorn Pixel: What feeds your soul?
Ratnam sir, he is a genius. He is a beautiful narrator, beautiful storyteller. So I just followed him. I follow Sanjay Leela Bhansali blindly – I follow Mani Ratnam blindly. Yes, I bring in my own element because as an individual, as an artist, as an experimenter I would like to do things differently and not repeat what I have done before, but with the guidelines of what the director wants. I will listen to them carefully and understand
how she is walking and talking, but how she is thinking and feeling. I want to go to the roots of that and then perform from that understanding. PopcornPixel: Did you ever face sexism in the industry? Manisha: The fact that people are talking about it now openly is a great shift, but we have miles to go, we still have to strive for
Manisha: So many things. I love cinema I love performing but with a good director, so I wait for the best and if I don’t get that I do other things. I go trek in the mountains. Just 3 months back I was in Switzerland, in the Swiss Alps trekking. I love nature and just walking in nature, or being with my family. I love being with my family and friends. I love food, I love to travel. There are a zillion things I love.complimentary term. It has improved a lot, but still a long way to go.
SEVEN
Unknown facts about Manisha Koirala
Manisha is the first Bollywood star to be felicitated in both the UK Houses of Parliament and Houses of Lord Did you know Manisha produced a film called Paisa Vasool in 2004, which saw her pairing up with Sushmita Sen? Did you know in her first film, Saudagar Jackie Shroff played Manisha’s father-inlaw? It was only when she was a little older, she got to play Jackie’s love interest. The pair went on to start in more than 10 films.
If not an actress, Manisha wanted to be a doctor or enter politics. Manisha Koirala has acquired a diploma in filmmaking from New York Manisha Koirala battled ovarian cancer in 2012. She underwent surgery and several months of treatment, after which she became an advocate for cancer awareness and the importance of early detection.
In 2004, Manisha Koirala was appointed as a UNFPA Goodwill Ambassador, focusing on spreading awareness about women's reproductive rights, health, and gender equality.