Mumbai, India- 22 May, 2025: What happens when one desperate wish unravels everything you thought you knew about friendship, trust, and choice? Amazon MX Player, Amazon’s free video streaming service, just released its latest gripping young adult thriller, Knock Knock… Kaun Hai?, which plunges you into a world of mystery, betrayal, and digital dread. Produced by Sunshine Productions and helmed by Sudhir Sharma, this high-stakes series follows Tanya and Rohan, two best friends, whose lives spiral after a cryptic app promises to fulfill their deepest desires…but at what cost?  As loyalties shift and secrets surface, every choice pulls them further into a dangerous situation. Here’s why this dark, thrilling ride is a must-watch:

• Powerful premise: What starts with a crack in a friendship quickly snowballs into a haunting chain of events. When Tanya installs a mysterious app after feeling betrayed by Rohan, it offers to grant her deepest wish, only to demand a hidden “request” in return. With every request, the stakes grow higher, pushing Tanya and Rohan down a path filled with moral dilemmas and emotional wreckage they never saw coming. The result is an emotional rollercoaster you won’t forget.

• Relevant themes with a razor-sharp edge: Just when you think you have got the app’s pattern figured out, the narrative pulls the rug from under you. With friendships shifting, loyalties tested, and danger lurking around every digital corner, each episode leaves you questioning who is really in control. The unpredictable twists blur the lines between right and wrong, keeping you on edge from start to finish.

•Tackles real issues without being preachy: Without preaching, Knock Knock… Kaun Hai? smartly touches on themes that resonate with the viewers, like social media obsession, cancel culture, toxic relationships, and the constant pressure to perform. It shows how an impulsive action can ripple through one’s life, affecting not just the individual but everyone around them. The series mirrors the very apps we use daily, making you think twice about how far we go for validation or revenge. The app’s sinister mechanics tap into real-world anxieties in a way that feels scarily familiar.

• A cast that holds it all together: At the heart of Knock Knock… Kaun Hai? is the cast that grounds this supernatural thriller in reality by bringing raw and relatable emotion in each scene. While Aadya Anand brings depth and honesty to her role, Kush Jotwani delivers layered nuance to Rohan’s conflicted choices. Arjun Deswal’s eerie calmness adds a chilling undertone to the unfolding chaos. Together, they elevate the narrative with performances that feel intimate, intense, and heartbreakingly real.

• Watch For Free: No subscriptions. No trials. No hidden fees. Knock Knock… Kaun Hai? is now available for free on Amazon MX Player, the Amazon Shopping App, Fire TV, and Prime Video. Whether you’re on your commute, lounging at home, or sneaking in an episode on your lunch break, this thriller is just a tap away.

Bengali music lovers are in for a visual and emotional treat as Arpan Basak announces the release of his latest music video, “Majhe Majhe Tobo”, a soulful rendition of Rabindra Sangeet.The music video brings together themes of love and friendship, set against the rich cultural backdrop of Kolkata.

The video features performances by actor Dev Mukherjee, Debolina Banerjee, and Prithvijit Bose. Notably, this marks Debolina’s debut as a lead, while Dev Mukherjee returns to Zee Music Bangla after his previous appearance in music video “Paahari Megh.” The song is voiced by talented singer Soumya Mukherjee, whose rendition captures the emotional essence of Rabindranath Tagore’s composition.

Shot in the regal ambiance of a traditional Rajbari in Kolkata and the bustling Howrah Flower Market, the music video beautifully showcases the heritage and vibrant ethnic textures of the city. The production aims to merge classic Bengali artistry with modern cinematic storytelling.

Director Arpan Basak, known for his web series “Dhowasha”, “Ideal Prem”, and “Malini”, brings his signature narrative depth to the project. With this music video, he continues to explore emotionally resonant stories grounded in everyday human experiences.

The team behind “Majhe Majhe Tobo” is excited to share a story that promises to strike a chord with audiences across generations. With its evocative visuals and timeless melody, the video is poised to be a heartfelt celebration of Bengali culture and emotional connection.

While speaking about his comeback, he said, “Honestly, I never expected to make a comeback, but somewhere deep inside, I had a little feeling it might happen. The storyline was so strong, and I also wanted Virendra to return. So yes, I always wanted to come back to the show because I had connected with it from the start.”

The Rishto Se Bandhi Gauri actor further added, “I’m feeling super good, excited, and full of energy! The character I’m playing now—Virendra—is exactly the kind of role I always wanted to do. It’s a strong character with many layers, and you get to do so much while playing it. For me, it’s something different and refreshing. So yes, I’m really excited.”

Speaking about his character’s purpose after comeback, he said, “Now, talking about Virendra’s real aim—his goal is to gain power no matter what. The grandmother had already established herself as the village head, and Virendra wants to take that position into his own hands. He wants to become the village leader, the authority figure—not Rudra, but himself. This is exactly the character’s purpose and his main goal. And to achieve this goal, he is making all the moves carefully.”

19 May 2025, Kolkata: Prominent Kolkata-based culturist, social activist, and trustee of the Prabha Khaitan Foundation, Mr. Sundeep Bhutoria, will attend the highly anticipated screening of Satyajit Ray’s restored masterpiece Aranyer Din Ratri (Days and Nights in the Forest) at the 78th Cannes Film Festival on 19th May 2025.

This marks the first-ever Cannes screening of the 1970 classic, which will be showcased in a newly restored version. The event will reunite after 55 years the film’s legendary cast members, Sharmila Tagore and Simi Garewal, whose presence will add to the historic significance of the occasion.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Mr Bhutoria said, “I am deeply honoured to attend the premiere of the restored Aranyer Din Ratri at The Cannes. This is my first visit to the festival, and it is all the more special because of my long association with the Dutta family, the original producers of the film. Unfortunately, Esha Dutta, who collaborates closely with the Prabha Khaitan Foundation and its associate organisations, is unable to join due to a family emergency.”

Mr Bhutoria also acknowledged the efforts behind the restoration, stating, “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to film maker and archivist Shivendra Singh Dungarpur and the Film Heritage Foundation for their pivotal role in this extraordinary restoration project. I have known Sri Dungarpur personally for over a decade since he started the project with a missionary zeal in 2014. He has contributed immensely to safeguard endangered celluloid films, promote film literacy, and train archivists. Their dedication ensures that Ray’s genius continues to inspire future generations.”

Aranyer Din Ratri, based on Sunil Gangopadhyay’s novel of the same name, explores themes of urban escapism, class and gender dynamics and human relationships with unparalleled depth. The film follows four urban friends – Asim (Soumitra Chatterjee), Sanjoy (Subhendu Chatterjee), Hari (Samit Bhanja), and Shekhar (Rabi Ghosh) – who escape their mundane city lives for a weekend trip to the forests of Palamau (Bihar). Their journey becomes a metaphor for self-discovery as their interactions with rural life and two local women – Aparna (Sharmila Tagore) and Jaya (Simi Garewal) – expose their urban pretensions, insecurities, and existential dilemmas.

The film is celebrated as one of Ray’s finest works, blending psychological depth, social commentary, and lyrical storytelling. The film’s screening at The Cannes – a somewhat belated recognition compared to Ray’s other films – underscores the festival’s enduring reverence for the Oscar-winning auteur, whose films remain a cornerstone of world cinema.

Mumbai, 15th May 2025: JioHotstar proudly announces the return of a landmark show that redefined the Indian espionage thriller genre, Special Ops. Built in its own league with compelling storytelling, sharp characters, and high-stakes action, this new installment promises to deliver an even more gripping narrative, delving deeper into the world of Indian intelligence. With the stakes higher than ever, Special Ops season 2 is set to push the boundaries of the spy genre in India.

Alok Jain, Head of Cluster, Entertainment (Colors, Digital Hindi, Niche, Movies and Studio), JioStar, said, “At JioHotstar, we are committed to bringing bold, high-impact storytelling to our audiences, and Special Ops has been a defining example of that vision. The return of Himmat Singh in Special Ops season 2 marks not just the continuation of a beloved franchise, but a significant milestone in the evolution of premium Indian content. We are excited to deliver a season that’s bigger, smarter, and even more gripping.”

Creator Neeraj Pandey said, “With Special Ops, we aimed to create a lasting legacy in action, scale, and storytelling, something that resonates across audiences and generations. The overwhelming response to past seasons not only humbled us but challenged us to push our creative boundaries even further. This season, we’ve dialled up the stakes, the intensity, and the emotional arcs, delivering an even more thrilling experience. This journey, from the show’s inception to now with Season 2, has been exhilarating, thanks to the incredible passion of our team at Friday Storytellers and the unwavering support and collaboration with JioHotstar. We can’t wait for audiences to embark on this new chapter with us.”

Versatile Actor Kay Kay Menon who is portraying the iconic character of Himmat Singh said, “Himmat Singh is a character that has resonated deeply with audiences. Returning to this role is both a challenge and a privilege. In Special Ops season 2, viewers will witness new facets of Himmat’s journey – his vulnerabilities, his grit, and the weight of choices he’s made. It’s a powerful script, and I can’t wait for audiences to experience it.”

 Special Ops season 2 raises the bar even higher — it’s bigger, bolder, and grander in scale, vision, and ambition. Premiering soon on JioHotstar.

Speaking at the press event in Delhi, Thakur Anoop Singh said, “Delhi always feels electric. The warmth and energy of this city are unmatched. It’s an honor to be here and share a glimpse of Romeo S3, a film that’s intense, emotional, and packed with action. I’m excited for audiences to experience it in theaters this Friday.”

At the star-studded Deltin Star Weekend – Diamond Edition event, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh revealed who he’d want to see play him if a biopic ever gets made. And the names weren’t just wishful thinking. They are Bollywood’s powerhouse performers; Ranveer Singh and Vicky Kaushal.

“Ranveer Singh’s energy and Vicky Kaushal’s intensity – they both could do justice to my story,” Harbhajan beamed. Given the fire, flair, and drama that Bhajji brought to the pitch, it’s not hard to imagine either of these Bollywood heavyweights stepping into his shoes for the big screen. With Ranveer’s explosive charisma and Vicky’s grounded presence, the thought of Bhajji’s journey being told in full cinematic glory feels like a blockbuster waiting to happen.

Interestingly, the evening wasn’t just about starry aspirations. Harbhajan gave the audience a dekko of his world, sharing raw and heartfelt reflections on life off the field. Touching on masculinity and the emotional expectations men silently endure, everyone’s favourite Paaji said, “Men also cry, but people don’t notice that.”

He further added, “Men do have emotions. I’d advise women to be the strength and support system for their husbands or boyfriends. Be their pillar and watch them win the whole world.” That is something that lingered long after on the minds of many.

Having visited many casinos abroad, Bhajji admitted, “I’ve been to very few casinos in India. Today, I am here at the Deltin Star Weekend, and it’s lovely to be here.”

The former Indian cricketer also reminisced hard-earned lessons from his own journey, and shared a directed and sincere message for the youth. “There is no shortcut in life. If you work hard, you will reach where you want to be. Look at Virat Kohli; he has struggled for 20 years to be where he is today. There should be some improvement every single day, so you keep learning,” he said matter-of-factly.

Bhajji, who has overcome multiple challenges in his own journey, added, “There is no such work where people can’t succeed. There is no ‘do or die’ situation — only ‘do’. You should always keep going, today, tomorrow, and keep working hard always.”

Credited much of his grounding and growth to his family, especially his five sisters, Bhajji shared, “They are very stubborn. They wanted me to become something in life. If they hadn’t pushed me, I wouldn’t be here. They are my role models, my pillars of strength.”

When asked to talk about his personal favourites, his emotion remained consistent. His father remains Bhajji’s biggest inspiration. The former cricketer’s ultimate comfort food? Aloo Paratha, but of course, served hot, spiced right, and dripping with butter. Asked to share his most iconic cricketing moment, Harbhajan spoke about his legendary hat-trick, a career-defining memory that fans still celebrate.

When probed to reveal one person who believed in him before his early success, Bhajji named former Indian captain, Sourav Ganguly. He elaborated, “Sourav Ganguly believed in me before the world did.” He further recalled that Ganguly’s faith in him changed everything for him.

From heartfelt confessions about emotional strengths to bold Bollywood dreams, Harbhajan Singh reminded everyone that he’s more than a cricketing legend. He is a man of grace, grit, and grounded ambition. As for whether it will be Ranveer Singh or Vicky Kaushal who will tell Bhajji’s inspiring story someday, that’s something that will be worth the wait.

The Royals, recently released on OTT, has been much awaited by fans due to its depiction of a royal and glamorous world, featuring a multi-starrer cast. The series, directed by Priyanka Ghose and Nupur Asthana, features Ishaan Khatter, Bhumi Pednekar, Vihaan Samat, Zeenat Aman, Nora Fatehi, Dino Morea, Chunky Pandey, and Sakshi Tanwar, amongst other prominent stars. Khatter, Pednekar, and Samat, joined by the extended cast of the series, spoke with IMDb in an exclusive interaction, sharing their experiences and behind the scene anecdotes that made their journey memorable.

Speaking about his favourite memory from the sets, Khatter, said, “There are a few but the first one that comes to mind, it’s a bit of a highlight reel image. It was when we got to play polo, and it was shirtless for me, 12 hours a day in the scorching Rajasthan sun. Our polo ponies really supported us through two days as we were playing with actual polo professionals. It was a bit surreal, an out-of-the-body experience.” Samat added, “In a full field, with an audience, with horses being switched around but we don’t get switched out. We just have to keep going, it was lovely.”

Sharing what drew them towards the character and story, Khatter revealed, “It’s very entertaining, it’s glamorous, it’s sassy but at the same time, there is meat on the bones so to say, for every actor. There’s drama, there’s comedy, so it’s a little bit of everything for me. Aviraj was a very fascinating character for me to play because he’s one thing on the outside and quite another inside, as the show reveals.”

Pednekar shared, “What excited about my character Sophia and the show is that firstly, I love the genre. I love a good romance. I haven’t done much in the space, especially the kind of world that The Royals has created. It was an opportunity to break newer boundaries and challenge myself as an actor, so that definitely excited me a lot.”

Samat revealed, “I loved the character when I read it. I loved the world when I read it. My character, Diggy, is the younger brother of the royal family. He’s the younger son. He’s handling the palace and taking care of everything. He’s about to assume the mantle of being the leader of the family. It is a lot to play with. Things like this aren’t written. I got to ride on a horse, I got to make food, and I got to pretend to play a prince, so I had an amazing time.”

Discussing who needed the most royal treatment on the sets of The Royals, Khatter mentioned, “One who deserved it the most would be Zeenat Ji.”

Chennai, 12th May 2025: After several months of intense competition and mesmerizing performances, Tamil television’s most sought-after singing reality show, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Li’l Champs Season 4, concluded on a high note. The Grand Finale’s live show witnessed the top six finalists deliver their best performances yet culminating in the announcement of Divinesh, an 11-year-old contestant from Chennai, as the winner. Following a marvellous grand finale that showcased raw talent and unforgettable moments, leaving the audience spellbound, he proudly took home the prestigious trophy.

The finale format comprised two exciting rounds a ‘Challenging Songs’ round, where the finalists pushed their boundaries by selecting and performing technically complex songs, followed by a ‘Freestyle’ round, which gave them the liberty to present their favourite styles and showcase their unique musical strengths. These rounds ensured a thrilling and emotionally engaging experience for both the live and home audiences.

 The fourth season of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Li’l Champs captivated millions of viewers by bringing together aspiring singers from diverse backgrounds and providing them with a platform to showcase their talent since its inception. The grand finale was a grand affair, which was held live on 11th May and witnessed an electrifying atmosphere as the six finalists – Divinesh, Hemitraa, Yogashree, Srimathi, Abinesh, and Mahathi – put their best foot forward and charmed everyone with their melodious voices and versatile singing styles, ranging from classical to folk to western. Hosted by the ever-energetic Archana Chandoke and judged by renowned playback singers S.P. Charan, Swetha Mohan, Srinivas, and Saindhavi, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Li’l Champs has been a vibrant showcase of incredible emerging talent. The winner was declared based on a combination of judges’ scores and audience votes, ensuring a fair and comprehensive assessment of the finalists’ performances.

Adding to the grandeur of the evening, popular actors Arya, Santhanam, and Sivakarthikeyan graced the occasion as chief guests. Their presence elevated the energy of the finale, and they were seen enjoying the performances, encouraging the young contestants, and sharing lighthearted moments with the judges and host. The suspenseful moment of announcing the winner was led by actor Sivakarthikeyan, adding to the excitement and emotional climax of the season. 

After a night of breathtaking performances and emotional highs, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Li’l Champs Season 4 announced Divinesh as the winner. Divinesh emerged victorious due to his extraordinary vocals, exceptional stage presence, and captivating connection with the audience.

Throughout the competition, Divinesh consistently impressed judges and viewers alike, mesmerizing them with unique interpretations of songs, flawless technique, and a palpable passion for singing. He walked away with a glittery trophy and a prize money of Rs 10 lakh. Yogashree was named the first runner-up, and Hemitraa was announced as the second runner-up.

Talking about his win, the winner of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Li’l Champs Season 4, Divinesh, mentioned, “Winning Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Li’l Champs Season 4 feels like a dream. I’m very happy and want to thank Zee Tamil and the whole Sa Re Ga Ma Pa team, especially the judges and coaches, for helping me become a better singer. And a super big thank you to my amazing gurus – Swetha Mohan, S.P. Charan, Srinivas, and Saindhavi – for teaching me so much about music.” Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Li’l Champs Season 4 premiered on November 2, featuring 30 talented contestants.

After a fantastic six-month run, the show concluded with an unforgettable grand finale last night. While the exciting season of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Li’l Champs Season 4 has ended, stay tuned to Zee Tamil as the channel continues to present you with entertaining, thought-provoking inspiring content!

Mother’s Day is a reminder of the quiet strength, unconditional love, and everyday magic that mothers bring into our lives. Whether you’re spending the day with your children or other mom friends, a heartfelt audiobook, podcast, film or show can become a beautiful, shared moment. From feel-good listens to soul-stirring cinema, we’ve handpicked a thoughtful mix of titles perfect for reliving memories with your mother, bonding with fellow moms, or simply unwinding with your child on a summer afternoon.

TO LISTEN

 The Life List

Service: Audible

It is an uplifting, no-nonsense guide written and narrated by Kate Christie—perfect for mums looking to rediscover themselves this Mother’s Day. After losing her partner and watching her kids fly the nest, Kate decided it was time to stop waiting and start living, creating a bold “life list” filled with everything she still wanted to do. With humour and hard-earned wisdom, she invites every woman to dream bigger, live louder, and embrace the endless possibilities still ahead. If your mum’s ready for her next chapter, this audiobook might just be the nudge she needs.

 Room

Service: Audible

This is a deeply moving story that captures the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child. Narrated by a full cast and brought to life on screen by Oscar-winner Brie Larson in a critically acclaimed film, this tale is equal parts heartbreaking and hopeful. Told through the eyes of five-year-old Jack, who has only ever known the small space he calls Room, the story unravels as he and his mother dare to imagine life beyond its walls. It’s a beautifully told celebration of resilience, love, and a mother’s courage in the face of unimaginable odds.

 The Mom Hour

Service: Audible

If you’re looking for something warm, wise, and wonderfully real this Mother’s Day, The Mom Hour is the one. Co-hosts Meagan Francis and Sarah Powers (moms of eight kids between them) bring deeply relatable conversations to the mic every week. The two dive into how parenting evolves as kids grow, and how letting go can be just as powerful as holding on. It’s the kind of inspiring, feel-good listen that’ll leave you smiling, nodding, and maybe even texting your mom!

Parallel Mothers

Service: Amazon Prime Video

It is a stirring watch for Mother’s Day, especially if you’re looking for something layered with emotional depth. Starring the brilliant Penélope Cruz, this drama tells the story of two single women (one a confident photographer in her 40s, the other a scared teenage girl) who bond after giving birth on the same day. What begins as a chance meeting in a maternity ward evolves into an unexpectedly powerful connection with the unspoken ties of motherhood. This film is a beautiful ode to how women lift each other through life’s most profound moments.

Ginny & Georgia

Service: Netflix

Ginny & Georgia is the kind of show that makes you tear up, and call your mom right after. It follows 15-year-old Ginny (Antonia Gentry), who often feels like she’s parenting her free-spirited, glamorous 30-year-old mother, Georgia (Brianne Howey). On the surface, it’s a story about starting fresh in a quaint New England town, but underneath, it’s packed with secrets, drama, and love. With its mix of sass and suspense, this series is a top-tier pick for Mother’s Day, celebrating the beautifully complicated bond between mothers and daughters. 

Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway

Service: Netflix

It is a powerful and heart-wrenching drama starring Rani Mukerji in one of her most stirring performances yet. Inspired by real events, the film follows an Indian mother’s fierce, emotional battle against the Norwegian child welfare system after her children are taken away over cultural misunderstandings. What unfolds is a harrowing legal and personal struggle, with Debika’s strength and resilience at the core. A top-notch pick for Mother’s Day, it is a reminder of just how far a mother will go when her children are on the line.