Category: Movies

Independence Day is more than just a day, it’s an emotion and Zee Cinema of all understands that the most. Taking the celebration up a notch this year, the channel is all set to showcase nonstop blockbusters starting Saturday, 12 August. The Independence Day will see a double blast of premieres with world television premieres of Mass Maharaja – Ravi Teja starrer ‘Ravanasura’ at 1pm and ‘Chatrapathi’ starring the uber-talented Bellamkonda Sreenivas at 8pm only on Zee Cinema.

Kick-starting the celebration with the all-time blockbuster RRR, a film which showcased the glory of Indian Cinema at a world stage and made every Indian proud. This mega movie starring Ram Charan, Jr. NTR, Alia Bhatt, Ajay Devgn will be showcased on 12 Aug, 8pm.  This is followed by Akhanda on 13 Aug 8pm, which takes us on a journey of bravery and virtue. On 14 August, the channel will showcase Rohit Shetty’s Sooryavanshi, a movie packed with the utmost fight against terror to save the nation.

“Iss duniya mai agar koi mujhe rokne wala shaks maujood hai toh woh mai hu, woh criminal lawyer toh nai hai, law ko maat dene wala criminal hai” the ultimate Mass Maharaja – Ravi Teja’s dialogue encapsulates the power of his character and also his hold on the audience. With breathtaking visuals, gripping storytelling, and larger-than-life action, catch this fantasy-action film with the world television premiere of Ravanasura on 15 August at 1pm. At 8pm on the same day, Zee Cinema will fuel your family watch-list with high-octane action, impactful dialogues and stellar performances with the world television premiere of Chatrapathi starring the uber popular Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas, the vibrant Nushrratt Bharuccha, versatile Bhagyashree and talented Sharad Kelkar. Jo dusre ke liye jiye, who kehlata hai Chatrapathi – so join Shiva’s fight injustice and reunite with his family! A Hindi remake of the S.S. Rajamouli film of same name starring Prabhas, written by the same team of Baahubali and RRR, this blockbuster promises to provide a wholesome entertainment experience to your entire family.

Apart from the double blast of premieres, 15 August will be jam-packed with blockbusters like Big Dhamaka and Acharya. There is also a special showcase of ‘Gadar: Ek Prem Katha’ on the same day, giving viewers a chance to relive the magic once again.

The celebration continues on 16 Aug with movies like Thank God, Karthikeya 2, Valimai, and Bimbisara scheduled on the channel.

Tune in to Zee Cinema and witness the grand spectacle unfold from 12 August onwards.

Mumbai: The Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill 2023 was passed by the parliament after getting the nod from the Lok Sabha. The Bill was introduced in the Rajya Sabha on 20 July 2023 and passed after discussion on 27 July 2023. The historic bill was passed by the Parliament amending the Cinematograph Act after 40 years as the last significant amendments in the Cinematograph Act, 1952 were made in the year 1984. The landmark bill aims to comprehensively curb the menace of ‘piracy’ causing losses of Rs 20,000 Crores to the film industry, based on certain estimates. The provisions include strict punishment of minimum three months imprisonment and fine of Rs three lakhs which can be extended up to three years imprisonment and fine upto five per cent of the audited gross production cost.

Prime minister Narendra Modi has envisioned that India truly possesses immense potential to become the content hub of the world with rich heritage and cultural diversity being India’s strengths. The union minister for Information and Broadcasting, carrying forward the vision of the prime minister, also recognised the Indian cinema as a significant contributor to India’s soft power, promoting Indian culture, society, and values globally. He said “The empowerment of Indian Film Industry with Ease of Doing Business and its protection from the menace of Privacy, would go a long way in growth of content creation ecosystem in India, and would help safeguard the interests of all artists and artisans working in the sector.”

Talking about the Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill 2023 when it was taken up for consideration and passing in Lok Sabha, the union minister for Information & Broadcasting, Anurag Singh Thakur said, “India is known as a country of story tellers which shows our rich culture, heritage, legacy and diversity. In the next three years our film industry will grow to 100 billion dollars, providing employment to lakhs of people. Keeping the needs of the changing time, we have brought this bill to fight piracy and to further promote the film industry. These amendments will comprehensively curb the menace of ‘piracy’ which is causing losses of Rs 20,000 crores to the film industry.”

Thakur further said, “The government has done away with the requirement to renew film’s license every 10 years and has made it valid for lifetime. Now, there is no need to run around the government offices seeking renewal. Keeping up with the judgement of K.M Shankarappa Vs Union of India case judgement, the government has kept it away from the revision power and now the autonomous body of CBFC will have the full authority to look after it.”

Cinematograph Act Amendment:

First, the Bill attempts to address the issue of unauthorised recording and exhibition of films and curb the menace of film piracy by transmission of unauthorised copies on the internet.

Second, the Bill attempts to improve the procedure for certification of films for public exhibition by the Central Board of Film Certification, as well as improve categorisations of the certifications of the films.

Third, the Bill attempts to harmonise the law with extant executive orders, Supreme Court judgements, and other relevant legislations.

a) Provisions to check unauthorised recording and exhibition of films amounting to piracy: To check film piracy by way of cam-cording in the theatres; and most importantly also prohibit any unauthorized copying and online transmission & exhibition of a pirated copy of any film, strict penal provisions have been incorporated.

b) Age-based certification: Introduction of age-based categories of certification by further sub-dividing the existing UA category into three age-based categories, viz. seven years (UA 7+), thirteen years (UA 13+), and sixteen years (UA 16+), instead of twelve years. These age-based markers would be only recommendatory, meant for the parents or guardians to consider whether their children should view such a film.

c) Aligning with the supreme court judgements: Omission of Revisional Powers of Central Government as per judgment of Supreme Court in the case of K.M. Shankarappa vs Union of India (2000).

d) Perpetual validity of certificates: Removal of the restriction in the Act on validity of certificate for only 10 years for perpetual validity of certificates of Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).

e) Change of category of film for television: Recertification of the edited film for Television broadcast, as only Unrestricted Public Exhibition category films can be shown on television.

f) Reference to Jammu and Kashmir: Omission of references to the erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir in line with the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019.

Mumbai: Splendid Films has announced the release of their critically acclaimed, heartwarming film Goldfish. The film will be released in theatres in multiple cities across India and USA on 25 August 2023. Set in London, Goldfish deals with memory, music, mental health and identity. Anamika (Kalki Koechlin), the child of a mixed marriage, returns home to her estranged mother Sadhana (Deepti Naval) because she is suffering from the onset of dementia. Ana returns to a neighbourhood she barely remembers, to a woman who sometimes doesn’t remember her.

Goldfish marks Kalki Koechlin’s return to theatres after four years. Audiences can expect a soul-stirring story with refreshing performances. Directed by Pushan Kripalani, this Indian-British-American production brings together powerhouse talents Deepti Naval, Kalki Koechlin and Rajit Kapur with some extraordinary actors from the United Kingdom – Bharti Patel, Gordon Warnecke, Ravin Ganatra and Shanaya Rafaat – to tell a delicate, timeless story of a mother and a daughter, and of community. 

Speaking about presenting the film to the Indian audience, Anurag Kashyap shared, “I saw Goldfish at the Busan International Film Festival and I was so moved by the film. The relationship between Kalki and Deepti Naval, with some brilliant writing and performances, directed with so much nuance ,all the incredible supporting performances. It’s a beautiful film and I am thrilled to present it. I am so happy that after travelling across the world to so many festivals, it’s finally coming to the audiences in India.”

Speaking about her journey on the film, Deepti Naval said, “Goldfish is a perfect cinema that any artist would want to be a part of. It tells the story of a mother-daughter relationship and delves into the complexities of human nature and how circumstances mould individual relationships. The importance of a community and the love people offer is highlighted in the film through the stellar performances of Bharti Patel, Gordon Warnecke, Ravin Ganatra and Shanaya Rafaat. It was a treat to work with Kalki and to see the script come to life through the lens of Pushan. I cannot wait for audiences to experience this work of art!”

Talking about her experience of working on Goldfish, and her return to theatres after four years, Kalki Koechlin said, “It is exciting to be back on screen, with such a beautiful film Goldfish, after a long hiatus from acting due to motherhood and Covid. Interestingly, in the tradition of art imitating life, the film also explores a mother-daughter relationship during Covid lockdown, played by Deepti Naval and myself respectively. It is an international movie with raw humour and heartwarming emotions that will reach out to all of us who’ve struggled with our parents, our children or our identity.”

Mumbai: Sanskriti University, a prestigious institution of higher education, proudly conferred the honorary doctorate degree upon the distinguished member of parliament, revered actress, and celebrated classical dancer, Hema Malini, during its grand fourth convocation ceremony held on 22 July 2023.

The fourth convocation of Sanskriti University marked a historic event as the institution recognised and honored Hema Malini’s exceptional contributions to the realms of arts, culture, and public service. The honorary degree was bestowed upon her in recognition of her exemplary accomplishments and invaluable contributions that have left an indelible mark on Indian society.

Hema Malini, affectionately known as the “Dream Girl” of Indian cinema, has graced the silver screen with her captivating performances in numerous Bollywood films, earning widespread acclaim for her unmatched talent and charisma. Beyond her illustrious acting career, she has also earned international acclaim as a prolific Bharatanatyam dancer, elevating the traditional dance form to new heights of artistic brilliance. Her unwavering dedication to preserving and promoting Indian classical dance and culture has garnered her admiration and respect both on the national and international stage.

In addition to her artistic prowess, Hema Malini’s dedication to public service as a member of parliament has been commendable. Demonstrating unwavering commitment and empathy towards her constituents, she has actively worked towards the development and welfare of her people and the nation as a whole.

Dr. Sachin Gupta, chancellor of Sanskriti University, had the honor of conferring the prestigious doctorate degree upon Hema Malini during the convocation ceremony. In his inspiring speech, he highlighted the extraordinary journey of Hema Malini, from her humble beginnings to becoming a cultural icon and a revered public figure. Dr. Gupta emphasised that she has not only achieved excellence in her artistic endeavors but has also served as an inspiration to generations with her grace, elegance, and unwavering commitment to social causes.

In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Dr. Hema Malini expressed her profound gratitude to Sanskriti University for bestowing this esteemed honor upon her. She conveyed her heartfelt appreciation for the university’s commitment to promoting arts, culture, and education. Furthermore, she encouraged the young graduates to pursue their passions with unwavering dedication and perseverance while making meaningful contributions to society.

The convocation ceremony witnessed a gathering of dignitaries, esteemed faculty members, and enthusiastic students, creating an atmosphere of joyous celebration of knowledge and academic excellence. It served as a testament to Sanskriti University’s commitment to recognising exceptional individuals who have made significant contributions to various fields.

Sanskriti University’s fourth convocation was truly a moment of pride and inspiration, as it celebrated the unmatched legacy of Hema Malini and applauded the academic achievements of its bright and promising graduates who are poised to make a positive impact on society.