In an exciting development for fans of Indian period dramas, it has been confirmed that a second edition of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s acclaimed show “Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar” is already in the pipeline. It has only been a few weeks since the gripping tale of Indian courtesans debuted on streaming platforms, but the overwhelming response has paved the way for a continuation.
“Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar” captivated audiences by narrating the tumultuous lives of courtesans during India’s freedom struggle. The series, featuring an ensemble cast including Aditi Rao Hydari, Manisha Koirala, Richa Chadha, Sharmin Segal, Sanjeeda Shaikh, and Sonakshi Sinha, delved deep into an era marked by cultural upheaval and personal strife. Bhansali expressed his joy over the show’s reception, stating, “It’s been a joy to see the show resonate with audiences worldwide. I’m happy to announce that we’ll be back with season two.” According to Variety, the upcoming season will see the women of Heeramandi navigating the post-partition landscape as they attempt to carve out new lives within the Hindi or Bengali film industry.
In another intriguing tale of Indian cinema, Amitabh Bachchan recently made headlines with his pointed criticism of Gen-Z’s trending lingo. The actor, known for his willingness to embrace modern social media trends, took to his website to voice his grievances. In his note, Bachchan lamented, “The lamentation is that my generation has extremely limited time to witness and evolve to the next level. Such a cliched expression, ‘next level’; used in all conversations and descriptions with impunity, and not knowing how to express the moment, idea, or achievement. Just convert the moment to a self-designed adjective, and languish in its inventive prodigious masterpiece, than to be irritatingly rational and follow the ‘so-called trended lingo’ (sic).” His remarks have sparked quite the conversation about the evolving dynamics of communication across generations.
Switching gears to the big screen, a biopic on Sukumar Sen, India’s first Chief Election Commissioner, has been announced. Roy Kapur Films, in collaboration with Trickitainment Media, has secured the rights to bring Sen’s formidable journey to the silver screen. Set against the backdrop of India’s first general elections in 1951–52, the film will chronicle the life of Sen—a mathematician and civil servant—who played a crucial role in transitioning India from a British colony to a democratic republic. Managing an electorate of 175 million people, Sen’s efforts in organising the world’s largest democratic exercise, bridging 565 princely kingdoms and newly formed states, were nothing short of monumental.
In a more contemporary twist, actress and political hopeful Kangana Ranaut has voiced her support for Raveena Tandon following a recent assault incident. A social media video showed Tandon tackling a mob that had falsely accused her of assaulting three women. Ranaut was quick to defend her colleague, calling for strict punishment for the attackers.
. “What happened to Raveena Tandon ji is absolutely alarming. Had there been five more people in the opposite group, she would have been lynched. We condemn such roadrage outbursts; those people must be reprimanded,” wrote Ranaut.
Celebrating achievements in the realm of music, renowned singer Sonu Nigam has been honoured with an Honorary Fellowship by the National Indian Students and Alumni Union (NISAU) UK. During his concert series in the UK, Nigam was recognised for his global contributions to music. NISAU UK Chair Sanam Arora praised Nigam’s passion and dedication during the award ceremony at Wembley Arena, stating, “You once mentioned that music is not just your profession but your reason for being. It is this passion, coupled with your commitment to give back to the community that resonates deeply with what we stand for at NISAU.”
Meanwhile, comedian and television presenter Bharti Singh opened up about her life changes since becoming a mother. “I have become active after becoming a mother. I have also learned a lot of things. Today, since I have made some money, [I am comfortable]. But, our mothers worked outdoors, and then came back and worked at home. I am what I am because of my mother,” Singh shared. She added that cooking for her husband, Haarsh Limbachiyaa, has become a newfound joy, pointing out that having someone who loves to eat inspires her culinary skills.
In the realm of animation, actress Ananya Panday has excitedly announced her participation in the Hindi version of the upcoming animated film, “Inside Out 2.” Having recently appeared in the streaming movie “Kho Gaye Hum Kahan,” Panday expressed her delight at lending her voice to the character of Riley. “I have been such a huge fan of animated films; these stories transport you to a world that is entertaining and relatable. Voicing Riley made me relive so many of my childhood moments,” she said, sharing her enthusiasm for the project on social media.
It seems the world of Indian entertainment is bustling with exciting developments and noteworthy achievements, promising audiences much to look forward to.
