Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Heeramandi – The Diamond Bazaar on Netflix has taken the world by storm since its release. With its majestic visuals, captivating music, compelling narrative, and outstanding performances, the show has won hearts and critical acclaim alike. Infused with SLB's signature opulent storytelling, it has made a remarkable mark in the OTT space. Now, Heeramandi has made an impact on the global front having secured 4th position globally in Google Trends top-searched movies and shows of 2024. Google’s Most Searched TV Shows of 2024 Google Trends has unveiled the top-searched movies and shows of 2024 globally. While many international shows has made it's place in the top positions, it's remarkable to see that Sanjay Leela Bhansali's lavish Netflix period drama Heeramandi comes in fourth. Remarkably, it is the only Indian show on Google’s Most Searched TV Shows of 2024. Moreover, while the international conversations were about US elections, and climate events, Heeramandi has managed to make it's place in this list. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bhansali Productions (@bhansaliproductions) Tops list of India’s most-searched topics Heermandi also features on the top-searched list in India. Then show has topped the list of India’s most-searched topics, followed by Mirzapur which finally unveiled its third season after a gap of four years. Post-apocalyptic drama The Last Of Us bagged the third spot, followed by Bigg Boss 17, and Panchayat which dropped its third season. The sixth spot went to the K-drama Queen of Tears, followed by another one called Marry My Husband. The eighth spot went to Kota Factory, followed by Bigg Boss 18 which is still ongoing and is hosted by Salman Khan. The 10th spot went to 3 Body Problem. Apart from this, Heeramandi proudly holds the title of IMDb's #1 Most Popular Indian Web Series of 2024. Heeramandi stands as a true masterpiece, marking Sanjay Leela Bhansali's remarkable debut in the digital realm and a significant milestone in his illustrious career. Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar is an eight-part series streaming in 190 countries on Netflix since May 1.
11 December,2024 07:23 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentPrime Video, India’s most loved entertainment destination, today launched CN Rewind, Warner Bros. Discovery’s new digital channel, as an add-on subscription. As the home to all-time favourite animated shows, CN Rewind is curated exclusively for Prime Video in India, and brings Cartoon Network’s evergreen classics, including The Powerpuff Girls, Tom & Jerry, Scooby-Doo, Johnny Bravo, Looney tunes, Dexter’s Laboratory, Samurai Jack, Ed Edd n Eddy and many more, for fans across India. Prime members can enjoy a diverse range of celebrated animated programming, available both in Hindi and English, by purchasing an add-on subscription to CN Rewind at a special introductory offer of INR 199 per year, following which subscription can be renewed at INR 249 per year. “Animation remains a popular category on Prime Video across demographics, with younger and older audiences alike. With the launch of CN Rewind add-on subscription on Prime Video India, we are excited to take loyal fans on a nostalgic trip as they revisit their favourite Cartoon Network toons, as well as for younger audiences to discover and engage with these beloved stories,” said Gaurav Bhasin, head of marketplace (add-on subscriptions and movie rentals), Prime Video, India. “Over the years, through add-on subscriptions, Prime Video has served a platform for several streaming services to curate exclusive channels and take their content to audiences deep within India. We are thrilled to be the exclusive home for CN Rewind, and are certain that the diverse and timeless library will find deep emotional resonance with our customers across the country.” About Cartoon Network Cartoon Network is a cultural phenomenon that redefined pop culture and is reminiscent of special memories for millennials and generations across decades. CN Rewind, with the special offering, will provide fans the chance to relive those memories in a modern, on-demand format, giving them the opportunity to immerse themselves in the same joy and excitement they felt decades ago and to pass those treasured moments to the younger generation. “There’s a deep emotional connection between Indian audiences and Cartoon Network. CN shows aren’t just cartoons, they’re pieces of our childhood that evoke joy, friendship, and a simpler time,” said Ruchir Jain, Head of Distribution, South Asia, Warner Bros. Discovery. “With CN Rewind, we’re creating a space where nostalgia can thrive while ensuring these beloved characters continue to inspire and entertain today’s kids in a whole new way.”
11 December,2024 02:49 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSoon after devouring the second season, fans of Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein had one question: Is there a third edition in the offing? There’s good news for them. Barely three weeks after the Tahir Raj Bhasin, Shweta Tripathi Sharma and Aanchal Singgh-starrer dropped online, Netflix India has greenlit its next instalment. Writer-creator Sidharth Sengupta is naturally elated about taking the twisted thriller ahead. It depicts the mayhem that is sparked when Singgh’s character Purva gets obsessed with Bhasin’s Vikrant. “The response has been overwhelming. Considering how the second season ended, things are bound to get more intriguing as we witness how the characters evolve with the circumstances. The audience can expect significant transformations in the lives of Vikrant, Shikha [Tripathi], Guru [Gurmeet Choudhary], Jalan [Arunoday Singh], Akheraj [Saurabh Shukla] and Akhil [Nikhil Pandey],” says Sen. Sidharth Sengupta The latest season centred on the protagonist’s attempt to get rid of Purva, to whom he was forced to get married. When it ended on a cliffhanger, showing Vikrant injured and Purva pregnant, fans cheered the possibility of a third instalment. Upon its inaugural season in 2022, Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein became a sleeper hit, with critics believing that its pulp nature makes it an entertaining watch for the masses. By telling the story of a seemingly ordinary couple, the series also highlights how humans can go to any length when pushed against a wall. It is this human behaviour that fascinates Sen. He says the next instalment will explore the tumultuous past of its principal characters, thus depicting why they became the way they did. “Just as we delved deeper into Purva’s character in the second season, we will further explore each character’s journey, providing deeper insight into their lives and personalities,” he shares. Tanya Bami, Series Head, Netflix India, adds that the aim is to pepper the storytelling with more twists and action. “This masala entertainer has received both critical acclaim and fan love. With the next season, we are excited to have more twists, action, drama and music,” she says. If things go as planned, the third season will roll sometime next year.
11 December,2024 09:00 AM IST | Mumbai | Priyanka SharmaManav Vij focused on living up to audience expectations when reprising his role as special task force officer Kabir Farooqui in Tanaav Season 2. Directed by Sudhir Mishra, the political thriller returned after its successful first season in 2022. Vij admits it took time to grasp the impact his character had on viewers. “The thing that remains in your mind is that people have liked this character, so you have to perform accordingly. You can’t play it in a completely new way. So, it takes time to understand the gravity of how much people have loved it and are attached to it. We have to live up to their expectations. But it’s not difficult because I had a strong team, who was there to guide me,” he says. Even at the script level, Vij was excited to shoot for the new season. He felt a personal connection to the show’s patriotic themes. “I am a patriot by nature. It’s difficult for me to decide whose trauma is bigger—mine or my country’s. I have felt this debate since childhood. When I was reading the script of the second season, I saw how the personal trauma of my character was transferring to the country’s trauma. The aggression and stillness of my character had to go parallelly. That was a challenge, but I enjoyed doing it.” Tanaav marked Vij’s debut as a leading man in his two-decade career, and he acknowledges the shift it brought. “Offers change. The perception definitely changes when you play a leading role. I have got a [heroic] projection in the show. The love and the bond that we [co-stars] have shared, I haven’t experienced that on any other set,” he reveals. He notes that actors often face inequitable treatment when not playing the protagonist. “I always believed no work is big or small. It’s the intent that matters.” Despite enjoying his leading-man status, Vij does not dwell on the industry’s changing perception. “If something works, they will applaud you. And if it doesn’t, they will say, ‘We always knew he never deserved this.’ I focus more on my work than what the industry is thinking. My father does see a hero in me now. My elder brother shows more respect,” he laughs.
10 December,2024 08:11 AM IST | Mumbai | Priyanka SharmaBehind the high walls of Asia’s largest prison - Tihar Jail, a novice jailer uncovers the untold stories and moral dilemmas that lie within. This sets the scene for Black Warrant, a first-of-its-kind prison drama that marks Vikramaditya Motwane’s return to long-form storytelling on Netflix following the success of Sacred Games and CTRL. Presented by Applause Entertainment, an Andolan Production in association with Confluence Media, the series is a dramatised book adaptation of Sunil Gupta and Sunetra Choudhury’s 'Black Warrant: Confessions of a Tihar Jailer.' What is Black Warrant about? Set in the 1980s, Black Warrant is a fictionalised retelling of certain true events told from the perspective of Sunil Gupta, a timid rookie jailer at Tihar Jail, as he confronts the brutal realities, high-profile cases and complex power dynamics within Tihar’s walls. Zahan Kapoor stars as the lead actor. Vikramaditya Motwane reflects, "Black Warrant is a book that is raw, intense, and authentic and immediately demands to be brought to life. Collaborating with Netflix, Applause Entertainment, and Confluence has been incredible, and I’m grateful to have had partners who have supported me and the team in telling this story the way it deserves to be told." 'Vikramaditya Motwane has brought a unique perspective' Sameer Nair, Managing Director of Applause Entertainment, expressed his excitement: "Black Warrant delves into the untold contemporary history of Tihar Jail—a world rarely explored with such depth and authenticity. Collaborating with a visionary like Vikramaditya Motwane has brought a unique perspective, infusing the story with both nuance and realism. Partnering with Netflix allows us to share this powerful and resonant tale with a global audience, offering a rare glimpse into a hidden world that leaves a lasting impact." Tanya Bami, Series Head, Netflix India, said, “We are so excited to start 2025 with something completely fresh, distinctive and truly in signature Netflix style. True crime is a genre our members can't get enough of. Behind this defining series is Vikramaditya Motawane who also created our maiden series Sacred Games. We’re thrilled to rekindle this successful partnership again for Black Warrant, with Vikram, Applause, Andolan & Confluence media. Black Warrant is a defining show in the landscape of crime and Vikram's craft brings to life a tone and telling that captures the many firsts of this story with utmost flair. It is India's first prison drama, based on a recount of India's longest tenured jailer and a story that is an absolute must watch!” Discover the stories inside Tihar through the lens of one of India’s longest-serving jailers in Black Warrant, only on Netflix.
09 December,2024 05:59 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe first edition of Bandish Bandits was appreciated as much for its narrative as it was for the sonic soundscape crafted by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy. Why then would the makers choose to replace the trio with a bevy of young composers for the next edition? “It was solely in the interest of time,” reveals music supervisor Akashdeep Sengupta, tasked with cohesively presenting the 17 tracks designed by musicians with different sensibilities. “The first season took three years to create. For the second season, we only had 18 months. Keeping that in mind, and the fact that in this edition we needed to highlight both traditional and modern music, we decided to champion new artistes from across India.” Script in hand, Sengupta was tasked with traversing the country and finding musicians who could serve as the musical backbone of the new season. “We needed individuals who could understand the tone of music that we wanted, and also make the album diverse. The script is diverse, and is influenced by Indian classical music, and western sounds. There’s also a beautiful ghazal, as well as futuristic tracks that are modern. So, we cater to different tastes, and that assortment was also aligned with the script.” A still from the series Accompanied by director Anand Tiwari, Sengupta says the listening sessions organised with each composer were instrumental in ascertaining that the songs, though diverse, didn’t seem disparate. “We wanted to make the melody pan-Indian, in terms of its accessibility. We wanted to make it [appealing], not only for the elite listener, but also for the masses. We wanted to attract Gen-Z, who are also consumers of western and fusion classical music.” The drama, starring Ritwik Bhowmik and Shreya Chaudhry, will release on Prime Video on December 13.
09 December,2024 07:36 AM IST | Mumbai | Sonia LullaWhile acting provides her with creative satisfaction, Kritika Kamra finds fulfilment in supporting local artisans by showcasing their craftsmanship through her fashion label based in Madhya Pradesh. Currently filming Nagraj Manjule’s Matka King, which also stars Vijay Varma, the actor took time off her schedule to visit the local artisans. She adopts a hands-on approach, personally overseeing production to maintain the quality of her label’s designs. Speaking about her dual journey, she says, “Balancing my acting career and business has been challenging yet incredibly fulfilling. I feel a deep sense of responsibility towards both worlds. On one hand, I’m creating stories that resonate with audiences, especially with Matka King, on the other, I’m building a brand that celebrates the talent and craftsmanship of local artisans in Madhya Pradesh. They pour their heart and soul into their work, and it’s an honour to collaborate with them. Their stories inspire me to push boundaries, whether it’s in my acting projects or in building my brand. Taking a few days to meet the artisans and suppliers ensures we stay true to our values. It’s hectic, but when you love what you do, it’s all worth it.” Matka King explores the culture of gambling that gained popularity in Mumbai during the 1970s and ’80s.
08 December,2024 07:28 AM IST | Mumbai | Mohar BasuThere are no pre-release jitters for Sudhir Mishra as the second season of Tanaav drops today. The director is confident of the thriller—an adaptation of the popular Israeli show, Fauda—that is set in Kashmir. To tell a story involving Kashmir politics, he has a fundamental approach. “Luckily, I know my country. I am inquisitive, I travel and meet people not just for the sake of making something, but for its own sake. Also, I follow the craft of filmmaking, which means every character should be nuanced. I listen to the characters, and people of Kashmir. I don’t sensationalise. I am not coming into it with any agenda. Neither is there a need to create a jingoistic piece in order for it to become a hit,” he says. Manav Vij in Tanaav Over the past few years, there has been a surge in political films. Does it pain him to see thinly-veiled propaganda films or political stories that sensationalise? Absolutely, says Mishra. “It is sad. Why do young, talented people submit to other forces? They should stay true to their calling. Some people aren’t faithful to their own talent. I’m not here to ban anyone. I am not that white campus American liberal who thinks no one else can talk. I’m not woke; I’m a leftist. I am not here to fulfill any agenda.” Sudhir Mishra In the post-pandemic years, mid-budget films have struggled to find their deserving place on the big screen—be it Mishra’s last theatrical release Afwaah (2023), or Kiran Rao’s gem Laapataa Ladies that was rediscovered on OTT. In the current climate of horror comedies and franchises, where does it leave smaller films? “The problem is theatrical releases are expensive. I’ve always said that films are a public service. Film theatres should be tax-free. There has to be space for all kinds of films. If somebody likes RRR [2022] or Pushpa, so be it. But there should be space for other films too, like All We Imagine as Light and Kennedy. There should be space for smaller voices. Why do the big boys want everything? Let Payal Kapadia’s film be shown,” he urges. The director wants more female filmmakers to come to the fore. Critiquing the industry for not encouraging diverse voices, he says, “Women have told stories with great difficulty. Does the industry applaud them? No. They will say put women’s films in a festival. We need to pat them, not patronise them. Women filmmakers are much better than most of the men. All We Imagine as Light should have one good show in every town. We don’t encourage talent; we get scared of it.”
07 December,2024 02:51 PM IST | Mumbai | Priyanka SharmaThe charismatic and charming Naga Chaitanya is under the spotlight in the upcoming episode of Prime Video’s The Rana Daggubati Show. Following the success of his maiden streaming series, Dhootha, and his much-awaited film, Thandel, the star talks about wedding nuptials with actress Sobhita Dhulipala. Naga Chaitanya let down his guard as Rana Daggubati, his cousin and host of the talk show, made him spill the beans. Here are five unmissable moments from this must-watch episode that will keep you hooked: 1. Chay’s Ideal Family Life“When I’m 50 years old, I want to be happily married with a couple of kids, maybe one or two. I’d love to take them racing and go-karting. And relive the special moments of my childhood.” 2. Few Friends in the IndustryWhen asked by Rana about not having many friends in the industry, Chay said, “You’re the one who fills me in about everyone in the industry! Whenever I’m asked on talk shows, I just mention your name, and then they ask, ‘Isn’t he your cousin?’” 3. Rana shared his wildest dream for ChayRana joked about the wildest dream for his cousin, “Is to see you shirtless at an industry party, dancing on top of a bar, or doing something equally crazy!” Chay coyly hinted that he might just surprise Rana with it soon. 4. Being Mistaken for a LecturerRecalling his experience at the Adi Shakti theatre school, Chaitanya shared, “When I introduced myself to the class, the students thought I was going to be the lecturer! I had to clarify I was there to learn just like them.” 5. Experience with Sai Pallavi and Aamir KhanChaitanya had the honour of working with two perfectionists in two distinct projects—Sai Pallavi in the upcoming Telugu film Thandel and previously with Aamir Khan in his Bollywood debut film Laal Singh Chaddha. “I get very nervous acting and dancing alongside her (Sai Pallavi)!” Describing his experience of working with Aamir Khan as intense and rewarding. “It was like going to school every morning and taking exams every night. For twenty days of shooting, we did two months of rehearsals,” he recalled. Created, hosted, and executively produced by Rana Daggubati under the banner of Spirit Media, the unscripted Telugu Original eight-episode series boasts an exciting line-up of guests, including Dulquer Salmaan, Naga Chaitanya Akkineni, Siddhu Jonnalagadda, Sreeleela, Nani, S.S. Rajamouli, Ram Gopal Varma, and many more. With new episodes dropping every Saturday, the third episode of The Rana Daggubati Show featuring Naga Chaitanya and Rana's wife Miheeka will be available to stream on Saturday, December 7, exclusively on Prime Video in India and over 240 countries and territories worldwide.
06 December,2024 12:47 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentNetflix announced on 4th December that they will bring to the world the captivating story of the illustrious Roshan family, a cornerstone of the Indian film industry. In an exclusive docu-series, audiences will experience the rich tapestry of their multi-generational legacy through song and stories. For the first time, the Roshans offer an intimate journey through their lives, exploring three generations of passion, dedication, and outstanding contributions to Hindi cinema. At the heart of this narrative stands the Maestro and Musical Extraordinaire, the late Roshan Lal Nagrath AKA Roshan Saab, the revered patriarch who laid the foundation of this artistic dynasty. His indelible mark on the industry resonates through his own work and blossoms in the achievements of his descendants — Rakesh Roshan, Rajesh Roshan and Hrithik Roshan — who have each uniquely shaped the landscape of Indian entertainment as directors, creators, musicians and actors. What to expect from The Roshans Industry veteran, Shashi Ranjan has directed and co-produced the docu-series with Rakesh Roshan, featuring candid interviews with industry peers, friends, and colleagues who offer their perspectives on the Roshan legacy. “We are incredibly excited to partner with Netflix and share previously untold stories that shaped our lives," said the Roshan family "The platform allows us to reach viewers from across the globe, and it’s an honor to showcase our journey to the audience.” Director Shashi Ranjan also shared his experience: "Directing this docu-series has been an incredibly rewarding journey. Being invited into the Roshan family's world and entrusted with their legacy is a privilege I am grateful for. It is an honor to bring their story of creativity, courage, and commitment to the world, and having Netflix house the legendary movie family’s stories was undoubtedly the only way to go." Monika Shergill, Vice- President Content, Netflix India added, “We are thrilled to present the story of a family that has touched the hearts of generations of cinema lovers with their timeless melodies and unforgettable tales—'The Roshans'. This heartfelt docu-series takes you on an emotional and nostalgic journey, uncovering the untold story of three generations of this iconic film family. We are deeply honored to share this beautiful and inspiring legacy with the world. CreditsDirector : Shashi Ranjan Producers: Rakesh Roshan and Shashi Ranjan Main talking heads : Rakesh Roshan, Rajesh Roshan, Hrithik Roshan
04 December,2024 11:29 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentCold coffee, connections, and cliques — the gang is back together and taking a huge leap! Jumping ahead three years from where Season 2 left off, Netflix teased fans today with the trailer of the highly-anticipated YA series, 'Mismatched' Season 3. From career dreams to complicated relationships, this season hits closer to home than ever before. Produced by RSVP Movies, the Netflix series will drop on December 13. Netflix's 'Mismatched' Season 3 offers unexpected twists and new friendships Opening with the iconic cold coffee that first brought Rishi (Rohit Saraf) and Dimple (Prajakta Koli) together, the trailer dives straight into their next chapter. The duo has left the Aravali Institute behind for a new campus in Hyderabad as they enter the next phase of their relationship. Love meets tech as the two tackle their ambitions and the effort it takes to stay in love while exploring what it means to live two lives — one real and one virtual. The season will also feature a new set of expertly-curated music. Synonymous with the series, the music will remain a rich storytelling tool for fans. Once bitter rivals, Rishi and Anmol (Taaruk Raina) find themselves on the same team at the virtual-reality lab Betterverse, proving this season is all about flipping the script. A new character, Rith (Lauren Robinson), aims to thrive in this virtual world as Celina (Muskkaan Jaferi) helps them fit in, while Krish (Abhinav Sharma) continues to find his place. Sid sir (Rannvijay Singha) and Zeenat (Vidya Malavade) are starting anew, adopting fresh plans — a fitting parallel to the many “worlds” the gang navigates in Mismatched: from adulting and self-discovery to friendships. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Netflix India (@netflix_in) Ronnie Screwvala expresses his views about 'Mismatched Season 3' Producer Ronnie Screwvala says, “ Mismatched Season 3 is a milestone that reflects the love and effort of everyone involved. This season is incredibly close to our hearts as it takes on themes that truly resonate—growing together, embracing inclusivity, and facing life’s tough moments. It’s a reminder that even in life’s complexities, there’s beauty in connection and understanding. With our long-standing partnership with Netflix, we look forward to bringing this story to life and connecting with audiences across the world. ” With the soulful strains of “Ishq Hai” setting the tone, the trailer unfolds a mosaic of emotions. As each character grapples with their new realities, they’ll discover that sometimes, the hardest battles are fought within. While love may be complicated —as Rishi wisely says, “Pyaar me padna easy hai, pyaar ko nibhana sabse mushkil.” (“Falling in love is easy, but maintaining it is the hardest.”) — falling for Mismatched is anything but. Netflix’s holiday season must-watch, 'Mismatched' Season 3 is set to tug at your heartstrings, make you laugh, and remind you why this series holds a special place in your heart. Featuring Prajakta Koli, Rohit Saraf, Rannvijay Singha, Taaruk Raina, Vidya Malavade, Ahsaas Channa, Abhinav Sharma, Muskkaan Jaferi, and newcomers Lauren Robinson, Garima Yajnik, and Akshat Singh, this season brings dreams, dilemmas, and drama.
02 December,2024 07:28 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
