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Neha Dhupia Takes a Nostalgic Train Journey from Mumbai to Surat, Relives Childhood Memories in Her Latest Vlog
Actress Neha Dhupia recently embarked on a heartwarming train journey from Mumbai to Surat, a trip that turned out to be much more than just a mode of travel. The early morning ride became a throwback to her childhood, filled with familiar sights, sounds, and emotions, all of which she captured and shared in her latest vlog on her personal YouTube page.
In the video, Neha is seen glowing with excitement as she boards the train, reminiscing about her younger days. “As a child, I would travel with my mom and dad by train… and today, I feel exactly the same. This ride brought back so many beautiful memories,” she shares warmly.
The train with its sweeping scenic views, crisp morning light, and modern comforts, offered the perfect backdrop for Neha to reconnect with the simple joys of travel. Whether it was the rhythmic hum of the train, the sunrise peeking through the windows, or the warm chai in hand, everything seemed to stir a sense of familiarity and joy.
“It was overwhelming in the most beautiful way,” she adds in the vlog. “The service was great, the journey was smooth, and I got to meet some lovely people along the way.”
Neha’s YouTube page gives fans a peek into such honest moments from stories and reflections from her everyday life, to spontaneous experiences like this one. Whether she’s travelling, learning something new, or simply taking a pause, she brings along her audience, sharing slices of her world in the most heartfelt way.
The Mumbai-to-Surat train ride reminded her and now her viewers, of how magical a simple train journey can be. Through her lens, it wasn’t just about reaching a destination, but reliving a memory, finding joy in the ordinary, and celebrating the nostalgia that trains so effortlessly bring with them.
Panchayat S4 review: A filler before the ultimate 5th season yet it’s engaging and entertaining at the same time!
Series Review By: Prashant Shukla
Plot:
Right after the climax shenanigans of Season 3, Abhishek finds himself entangled in a police case for slapping Bhushan. Stressed and tense, he now also faces the heat of the upcoming Panchayat elections. Politics, deceit, lies, and plenty of laughs form the core of Panchayat Season 4.
The Performances:
There’s little left to say about the performances in Panchayat-the actors have so completely become their characters that it feels like you could throw them into any situation, and they’d instinctively know how that character would react. But one performance that truly leaves a lasting impression is Ashok Pathak as Binod. What started as a one- liner comic relief has now blossomed into a beautifully distinct personality that feels incredibly fresh and memorable.
The Arc:
I mentioned this last year while reviewing Season 3-that the creators of this show know how to expand a series without losing its core-and I’d like to repeat that statement again! The show has expanded drastically since Season 1. What started as a misfit entering a remote village, trying to understand its people, has now grown into a story about politics, deceit, and cruel party campaigns- without ever losing its roots. And to the dozens of reviewers complaining about this expansion… I genuinely don’t get the criticism.
The Music:
Panchayat doesn’t get nearly enough credit for its brilliant use of music. The way the show weaves its theme into different emotional beats-sometimes warm, sometimes tense, sometimes heartbreaking -is nothing short of masterful. Tracks like Asmaan Rootha from Season 3 make a return at just the right moment, carrying even more emotional weight. And the addition of new songs like the Generator song and Savdhani Hati perfectly capture the quirky yet grounded tone of the show. It’s subtle, never showy-but it hits you where it, matters.
What could’ve been better:
In just 1 year, Season 4 went live, and that’s somewhat visible throughout the show! The entire season, despite being engaging and entertaining, feels like a filler season-like something that’s just a tasty starter for an ultimate new arc, i.e. the 5th Season. That aspect can fudge you at certain moments, but nothing to an extent where you f disconnected from the story!
Link: https://www.instagram.com/p/DLUZ9YJs_AJ/?img_index=6&igsh=cnNlZ2J5c2NyZzcy
Final Verdict:
Panchayat S4 feels like a dish cooking on slow flame-taking its time, building the flavour, prepping us for the final serving. It’s not the main course yet, but it’s got enough spice to keep you hooked till the last bite drops in Season 5.
Yami Gautam Wins Best Actor (Female) Popular at Movified Digital Awards 2.0
In a moment that beautifully echoes the power of public love, Yami Gautam has been awarded Best Actor Female (Popular), at the second edition of the Movified Digital Awards for her riveting performance in Article 370. Known for her quiet brilliance and consistent dedication to craft, Yami’s win stands as a powerful testament to the audience’s voice, a reminder that genuine talent always finds its stage.
What makes this recognition even more special is that it wasn’t decided in a closed jury room. The Movified Digital Awards 2.0, revered for their transparent, public-voting process, hand the power back to the people fans, viewers, and cinephiles who made their voices heard across social media. In a category teeming with exceptional female performances, Yami’s role as an unyielding intelligence officer navigating high-stakes politics and personal resilience, struck a national chord.
Her portrayal in Article 370 was not just a performance; it was an embodiment of courage and conviction. From the intensity in her gaze to the controlled strength in her dialogues, Yami delivered a layered act that resonated far beyond the frame.
Post Link: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DLcILlpsHW2/?igsh=aWF2dm9oamZsdTZt
In a gracious note following her win, Yami acknowledged the overwhelming public support and credited the story, her team, and the spirit of Indian cinema:
“This film and this role have meant so much to me. To see it connect with so many people, and then be honoured for it by the very audience it was made for, is incredibly humbling. Thank you to everyone who voted, and to Movified for creating a platform that truly celebrates performance with integrity.”
The Promoter of Movified, Sudhanshu Kumar, stated: “It brings me great joy to present the second edition of the Movified Digital Awards. This initiative began with a single purpose — to give heartfelt recognition to those whose talent truly deserves the spotlight.
It’s not just about awards; it’s about honouring the passion, dedication, and creativity that goes into every story.
To the winners and nominees — congratulations. And to our growing Movified community — thank you for making this vision come alive. Here’s to meaningful cinema, to voices that matter, and to celebrating the magic of storytelling — always.”
Announcing the winners, Neekita Singh, Director of Movified, stated: “As the Director of Movified, it brings me great pride to present the second edition of the Movified Digital Awards – a celebration of pure talent, passion, and cinamatic excellence. This initiative was born out of a desire to recognize and celebrate the talent that truly deserves the applause—both in front of the camera and behind it.
We’re here with the second edition of the Movified Digital Awards and with every edition, our purpose remains clear – to recognize and uplift true talent.
I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the winners & nominees and our ever growing Movified community for making this vision a reality.
Here’s to cinema, to stories that stay with us, and to the power of recognition. The journey continues, and Movified will always be here to celebrate the spirit of the screen.”
Forensic Team Investigating Actress Shefali Jariwala’s Death, Analyzing House, Makeup Kit, and Medicines
Late last night multiple police teams and forensic units arrived at the scene to begin an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her untimely death.
An official present at the location stated, “The police have been inside since last night. Two mobile forensic unit vehicles were called in — one has already left, while the other remains on-site.”
According to sources, the forensic team has collected fingerprints and examined the exact spot where Shefali allegedly collapsed. Authorities also inspected the actress’ makeup kit and medicine box in an attempt to gather possible leads.
Ram Gopal Varma Gets Real: “Mani Ratnam Didn’t Listen to My Idea. I Didn’t Listen to His Either”
In a candid conversation on the MPower Podcast, filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma revealed that he and director Mani Ratnam don’t particularly enjoy each other’s films — a fact that may surprise fans of both cinematic stalwarts. Despite their iconic contributions to Indian cinema, RGV made it clear that a collaboration between the two is highly unlikely.
“Mani Ratnam doesn’t like my films, and I don’t like his. That’s our relationship,” said RGV. While acknowledging Kamal Haasan’s performance in Nayakan, Varma admitted he wasn’t impressed with the film overall. He also credited legendary filmmaker K. Balachander as a bigger creative influence, citing similarities in their dialogue and editing styles.
Interestingly, the two filmmakers have shared credits in the past — co-writing Gaayam and Thiruda Thiruda, and co-producing Dil Se. But even then, RGV revealed they operated independently. “He didn’t listen to one idea of mine, and I didn’t listen to his. So we made our own films. Two creatively strong-minded people can’t really collaborate.”
While Mani Ratnam recently directed Thug Life with Kamal Haasan, Ram Gopal Varma is gearing up for Syndicate — a film he claims will be “the biggest ever” and promises to “wash away all my cinema sins.”
Anshuman Jha Takes Over as Director of Lakadbaggha 2 – The Monkey Business
Actor-filmmaker Anshuman Jha is confirmed to be directing the upcoming sequel to his 2023 cult vigilante action film Lakadbaggha. Titled Lakadbaggha 2 – The Monkey Business, the much-anticipated follow-up takes the animal-lover vigilante universe global — and is firmly under the creative leadership of Jha himself.
It was initially rumoured that the film would be helmed by adman and filmmaker Sanjay Shetty. However, after three days of principal photography, Jha stepped in to direct the film himself — a move reminiscent of Aamir Khan’s directorial takeover of Taare Zameen Par in 2007. But unlike the well-documented tension that followed that change between Khan & Gupte, this transition has reportedly been collaborative, mutual, and grounded in mutual respect.
A source close to the production revealed, “Anshuman told the team, ‘We will only make this film once — let’s make it the best it can be, regardless of who directs.’ It was never about ego, but about clarity and vision on the animal lover vigilante universe.”
The film’s 2nd AD Aura Chandel shared further insight: “Anshuman has been deeply involved from day one — from casting international martial arts legends like Sunny Pang and Dan Chupong to the Indian cast members, to shaping the VFX, score, and narrative tone. Sanjay Sir and Anshuman share a mentor-mentee bond. He assisted Sanjay on ad shoots when he was just 16. There’s no bad blood — only a shared love for the project. The initial bits have been reshot, and the energy on set was incredibly focused.”
Industry insiders say that the decision stemmed from creative alignment, with Jha being most connected to the world and ethos of the Lakadbaggha franchise — which uniquely combines action with a strong message on animal welfare. Shetty has remained on the project as a creative consultant.
With this move, Jha joins the ranks of actor-directors like Clint Eastwood, Bradley Cooper, and most recently Dev Patel (Monkey Man) — artists who bring deeply personal vision to their storytelling.
As one crew member put it, “He’s not just making a film, he’s building a legacy for the voiceless.”
Kangana Ranaut Targets Mira Nair’s Son Zohran Mamdani in Controversial X Post, Questions His Hindu Identity
Actor and newly elected Member of Parliament Kangana Ranaut has stirred fresh controversy with a provocative post on X (formerly Twitter), targeting acclaimed filmmaker Mira Nair’s son, New York State Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani.
In her post, Ranaut praised Nair as “one of our best filmmakers” and a “beloved and celebrated daughter born and raised in great Bharat,” while questioning the religious and cultural identity of her son. Referring to his name as “sounding more Pakistani than Indian,” Ranaut wrote, “Whatever happened to his Hindu identity or bloodline? And now he is ready to wipe out Hinduism, wow!”
Zohran Mamdani, born to Mira Nair and Ugandan-born author and academic Mehmood Mamdani, is known for his progressive politics in the U.S. Ranaut’s remarks alluded to his stance on certain global issues but offered no specifics. She concluded her post by congratulating Mira Nair and her husband, adding she had met the filmmaker “on a couple of occasions.”
The post, hashtagged #ZohranMamdani, quickly sparked debate online, with many criticizing Ranaut for making communal insinuations, while her supporters applauded her for “speaking boldly.”
Neither Mira Nair nor Zohran Mamdani has responded publicly to Ranaut’s remarks at the time of publishing.
Monsoon Romance, K-Drama Feels & Desi Heat: Crocs India’s #SidSoo Film Is the Viral Crossover We Didn’t Know We Needed
The internet’s latest obsession has arrived, and it’s wrapped in monsoon clouds, heartbeats, and a pair of very emotional Crocs. Crocs India just dropped the full-length version of its much-hyped K-Drama × Bollywood crossover film featuring South Korean darling Chae Soobin and India’s own Siddhant Chaturvedi — and the result is nothing short of a cinematic love letter.
In a world where the rain never stops and glances say more than words, #SidSoo tells a slow-burn story of two opposites pulled together by fate (and some seriously poetic footwear). Siddhant, the classic brooding tycoon, crosses paths with Soobin’s dreamy, heart-on-sleeve wanderer — and from umbrella-sharing to that now-iconic Korean heart Jibbitz™ moment, it’s all the kind of aesthetic-heavy storytelling we secretly wish our real lives looked like.
But this isn’t just about plot. It’s fashion with narrative power. Soobin’s white platform Crocs — decorated with floral Jibbitz™ and “I ♥ Rain” charms — bring cherry blossom softness to the screen. Siddhant’s darker, edgier Black Classic Clogs? Pure icy charisma, spiked with metallic chaos. Together, their looks mirror the emotional rollercoaster of their characters, blending Seoul street style with desi drama.
From Coachella-level cinematography to emotionally symbolic accessories, Crocs India hasn’t just launched a campaign — it’s delivered an entire mood board for lovers, dreamers, and fashion romantics. One thing is clear: this isn’t just footwear. This is a feeling.
Rajkumar Hirani, Shoojit Sircar, Anjali Menon, Onir to come together for the Second Official Instalment of the Celebrated Indo-Australian Anthology, My Melbourne
After the resounding success and critical acclaim of My Melbourne, the landmark Indo-Australian film project is all set to return with its second official instalment. Produced by Mind Blowing Films and presented by the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, the project continues its mission to celebrate cultural diversity and strengthen ties between India and Australia through the powerful medium of cinema.
The first edition of My Melbourne, released in March 2025 across India and Australia, brought together four visionary filmmakers — Rima Das, Onir, Imtiaz Ali, and Kabir Khan — to craft stories around identity, gender, race, sexuality, and disability. The film stood as a one-of-a-kind collaboration that bridged cultures while showcasing meaningful narratives that resonated globally and won the best film at the UK Asian Film Festival.
Now, the much-anticipated second chapter has been officially announced, bringing together another iconic slate of filmmakers. Rajkumar Hirani, Anjali Menon, Shoojit Sircar and returning director Onir are all set to helm.
Speaking on the announcement, Mitu Bhowmick Lange, CEO of Mind Blowing Films and the creative force behind the project, shared, “The success of My Melbourne has been overwhelming and deeply fulfilling. It has proven that stories told with authenticity and heart can transcend borders. We are honoured to have some of the most acclaimed filmmakers of Indian cinema lend their voice and vision to the second edition. This project continues to be a celebration of inclusivity, collaboration and creativity between India and Australia’s the project has given us the opportunity to work with emerging creatives from under represented communities
Rajkumar Hirani, known for some of India’s most beloved and socially conscious films, said, “I am truly excited to be part of a project that uses cinema to explore diverse human experiences while connecting two vibrant cultures. My Melbourne offers a rare opportunity to tell a story that is intimate, universal, and culturally resonant.”
Anjali Menon, celebrated for her sensitive and layered storytelling, added, “The themes and intention behind My Melbourne align deeply with the kind of stories I love to tell — ones that build empathy and bring people closer. I’m thrilled to collaborate on this journey of storytelling across continents.”
Shoojit Sircar, known for his thought-provoking narratives, said, “Storytelling knows no boundaries. My Melbourne is a meaningful initiative that reminds us how stories rooted in local contexts can have global significance. I’m grateful to be part of this cross-cultural cinematic dialogue.
Returning director Onir, whose contribution to the first edition was widely appreciated, shared, “Coming back for the second chapter of My Melbourne is like returning to a story that’s still unfolding. The opportunity to work with new themes and voices, while continuing a journey I deeply believe in, is truly rewarding.”
With this powerhouse lineup, My Melbourne is poised to deliver yet another chapter of emotionally powerful, culturally rich, and socially relevant stories, further deepening the artistic and diplomatic connection between India and Australia.
Today marks Aftab Shivdasani’s 47th birthday and what a thrilling year it’s turning out to be!
After a brief hiatus, Aftab is gearing up for a strong comeback with a stellar lineup of projects. He’ll be seen reprising his iconic rollercoaster comedy role in Masti 4, returning to the intense world of Kasoor, and headlining an untitled musical that’s already in post-production.
But that’s just the beginning – he’s also part of the star-studded ensemble cast of Welcome to the Jungle, and has another major project lined up, which will go on floors after Masti 4 wraps.
With back-to-back films and long-awaited returns, Aftab’s second innings looks nothing short of a blockbuster in the making.
Definitely a comeback story to watch closely!
