ITV

Tag: Abhinav Shukla

  • Shaadi, shots and showdowns as colors serves up a spicy new reality dish

    Shaadi, shots and showdowns as colors serves up a spicy new reality dish

    MUMBAI: Move over roses and violins Colors is gatecrashing dinner with a side of drama, as it unveils its first ever real-ationship reality show, Pati Patni Aur Panga – Jodiyon Ka Reality Check. Premiering on 2nd August, this shaadi-meets-showdown series will air every Saturday and Sunday at 9:30 pm, promising a generous dollop of laughter, love, and ludicrous household fights.

    Fresh off the finale of Laughter Chefs, the channel has traded spoons for squabbles, roping in seven celebrity couples to bring their private quirks to primetime. These aren’t rehearsed roles, they’re raw, real, and ready to air their laundry (possibly quite literally) in front of the nation.

    The show features a power-packed lineup of couples, Debinna Bonnerjee–Gurmeet Choudhary, Hina Khan–Rocky Jaiswal, Rubina Dilaik–Abhinav Shukla, Avika Gor–Milind Chandwani, Swara Bhasker–Fahad Ahmad, Geeta Phogat–Pawan Kumar, and Sudesh Lehri–Mamta Lehri. From love to laughter and every little panga in between, these jodis bring their quirks, chaos and chemistry to the screen.  

    The show’s glossy, high-energy finish owes much to the behind-the-scenes crew that stitched it all together. Director of photography Tribhuvan Babu lends a vibrant visual grammar to the episodes, while Swapnil Patole, Chief Colourist at the Independent Colourists Guild (ICG), ensures every frame carries emotional weight and tonal harmony. Technical finesse is handled by DI Technician Sachin More, Line Producer Sameer Shaikh, and DI Colour Assistant Kiran Gulgule, with Famous Studios Ltd leading post-production duties. Together, the team brings a cinematic sheen to the dinner-table chaos that unfolds in every episode.

    On the brand front, the show has attracted a wide swathe of consumer-facing names as sponsors each with a strategic reason to align with a format rooted in everyday intimacy and relatability. Nivea, as presenting sponsor, ties in seamlessly with themes of care, comfort, and authenticity, reflecting the emotional subtext of the show. Sugar Free Green, Rajdhani Besan, Cadbury Dairy Milk, and Pour Home Air Fresheners are all brands woven into the domestic fabric of Indian households just like the show’s celebrity couples navigating real-life love and laundry. Supporting brands like Envy Perfumes, Vikram Tea, Colgate, and Catch Masale see the high-engagement, weekend primetime slot as a direct route to the hearts and kitchens of Indian families. For these partners, ROI isn’t just about impressions or TRPs; it’s about cultural salience, brand recall, and showing up where the emotion is most real right between a laugh, a fight, and a plate of hot pakoras.

    Hosting this panga-packed party are Sonali Bendre, bringing poise and patience, and Munawar Faruqui, the designated “towel crime” police and chaos coordinator. Dubbed The Sonu-Monu Show by the crew, their repartee is already the stuff of reality-TV legend, a mix of zingers, comebacks, and cringe confessions.

    Behind all the glam, the show peels back layers of public personas to reveal unfinished sentences, kitchen fails, love languages, and one-word replies that spark weeklong sulks. Viewers are invited to peek behind the velvet curtains of celebrity marriages from ridiculous pet names to strategic foot rubs and witness the delicate art of surviving, thriving and occasionally fighting in love.

    To up the stakes, family members and housekeepers also chime in with their versions of truth bombs, making this not just a couples show but a full house of fun and friction.

    Speaking about the channel’s pivot to deeper emotional territory, Alok Jain of JioStar said, “We’ve always led from the front in non-fiction formats, and Pati Patni Aur Panga is our next big bet. This isn’t just content, it’s connection, showing the real, raw parts of celeb relationships that mirror our own homes.”

    Shweta Dalal, Marketing Director of Nivea India, added, “This show mirrors the same values we believe in care, trust, and authenticity. We’re thrilled to be part of a format that speaks so honestly to everyday companionship.”

    Sonali Bendre, returning to TV in a more emotionally hands-on avatar, shared, “This is not just about tasks or points. It’s about catching those in-between moments the real stuff that makes or breaks a relationship. And Munawar brings the madness to my method!”

    Munawar Faruqui, never one to hold back, quipped, “Main hoon yahan ka certified panga maker. I say what most husbands are thinking but are too scared to say out loud and I love every awkward second of it.”

    So if you’re ready for a hearty laddu of shaadi reality, not just the goals, but the gaffes too mark your calendars. Pati Patni Aur Panga is not your average reality show; it’s reality in all its messy, mushy, magnificent glory. Premieres 2 August, Saturdays & Sundays at 9:30 pm only on Colors.

     

  • Philips introduces Philips Avent connected baby monitor

    Philips introduces Philips Avent connected baby monitor

    Mumbai: Philips has introduced the Philips Avent connected baby monitor through an emotional TVC featuring Indian actors and new parents Rubina Dilaik and Abhinav Shukla. This campaign is part of the globally launched #ShareTheCare initiative. The monitor offers parents peace of mind by enabling real-time monitoring of their babies from any location at any time.

    The film resonates with parents, showcasing Rubina’s journey as she balances her personal and maternal responsibilities. It highlights the monitor’s advanced features, including high-definition video streaming, night vision, real-time audio monitoring, and two-way communication.

    The TVC portrays the shared experience of new motherhood, capturing the anxieties and support systems of new parents. It opens with Rubina singing a lullaby to her baby, while Abhinav reassures her about the monitor’s capabilities, emphasizing the bond between mother and child through modern technology and maternal care.

    Philips growth region – head of personal health, Vidyut Kaul said, “The journey of parenthood is an extraordinary experience that comprises many ups and downs. Recognising that it takes a village to raise a child, Philips Avent is dedicated to offering solutions that provide comprehensive support for babies while empowering mothers to prioritise themselves. Our campaign film authentically depicts the daily experiences of many new mothers, showcasing tender moments of connection and the challenges they face. By highlighting real-life scenarios, we emphasise the importance of modern solutions in easing the parenting journey, making a positive impact on the holistic well-being of both mothers and their little ones.”

    Dilaik said, “As a mother, I have experienced the joy, the doubts, and the overwhelming sense of responsibility that comes with nurturing a little life. Being part of this campaign was truly touching as it beautifully mirrors the highs and lows of motherhood. And with the launch of Philips Avent Connected Baby Monitor, we’re not just monitoring our little ones; we’re nurturing a bond that’s unbreakable, even from afar.”

    Shukla said “As a new father, I understand the importance of being present for every precious moment. The Philips Avent Connected Baby Monitor allows us to stay connected with our baby, no matter where we are. It offers peace of mind by ensuring we never miss a beat in our child’s development. This technology not only reassures us but also strengthens our bond with our baby, knowing we can always be there to provide comfort and care, even from a distance.”

    The monitor features advanced capabilities for secure monitoring. It uses 2.4GHz wireless technology for a stable connection with minimal interference and integrates with a mobile app for remote access and customizable alerts. Parents can tailor VOX mode and sound sensitivity to their preferences and create a calming environment with 15 lullabies. Emphasizing safety and environmental responsibility, the eco-friendly packaging, which includes one camera and adapter, is made from 90 per cent recycled paper.

  • ACME Group’s ‘Connect’ Fund Receives First Round of Funding, Propelling India’s AVGC Sector Forward

    ACME Group’s ‘Connect’ Fund Receives First Round of Funding, Propelling India’s AVGC Sector Forward

    In a groundbreaking move, the ACME Group’s ‘Connect’ Fund has successfully secured its first round of funding, marking a significant milestone for India’s burgeoning Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comic (AVGC) sector. This fund, established under the AFPL CAT II AIF Trust and registered with SEBI (Registration No.: IN/AIF2/23/24/1309), is the first of its kind in India dedicated to the AVGC industry.

    Ramon Talwwar, the Managing Director and CEO of ACME Group, expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the support received. “We are incredibly grateful for the confidence shown by our investors. This funding is a testament to the potential of the AVGC sector and our commitment to nurturing its growth,” Talwwar said. With over two decades of experience in capital markets, investment banking, and corporate finance, Talwwar’s strategic vision is set to drive the fund’s success.

    Abhinav Shukla, the co-founder of the ‘Connect’ Fund, emphasized the transformative impact this fund will have on the AVGC industry. “Our goal is to integrate cutting-edge technology and digital platforms into our investment strategy, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of this rapidly evolving industry,” Shukla stated. A veteran in the media and entertainment industry, Shukla’s expertise will be pivotal in attracting further investments and forging strategic partnerships.

    The AVGC sector in India, recognized by the government as a critical area of focus, is currently valued at approximately $4 billion and is projected to triple to $12 billion by 2030. This rapid growth is fueled by the increasing demand for digital media, immersive gaming, and innovative entertainment content. The ‘Connect’ Fund’s project scope, nearly INR 300 Crores, is poised to capitalize on this growth, providing much-needed capital to high-potential AVGC companies.

    The infusion of capital from the ‘Connect’ Fund is expected to act as a catalyst for the AVGC sector, driving technological innovation and creating new market opportunities. As the industry continues to evolve, the fund aims to support companies that are pushing the boundaries of creativity and technology, ultimately contributing to the sector’s long-term sustainability and growth.

  • ‘Super Nani’…From Nani’s era!

    ‘Super Nani’…From Nani’s era!

    MUMBAI: Indra Kumar, lately known for his crass comedies, this time tries an old fashioned family drama, a typical tear jerker about a suppressed woman who is taken for granted and generally insulted by her husband, son, daughter and daughter-in-law. The film is adapted from the Gujarati play, Baa Ae Mari Boundary (Mom Hits A Boundary).

    Rekha is told by her husband, Randhir Kapoor that her place is in the kitchen. He treats her just like a servant. According to him, the only contribution by his wife Rekha in his life was that she produced three children for him. Following his example, even her daughter, son and daughter-in-law treat her the same way. She has no place in their lives except to cook and serve them meals.

    Rekha is an ardent devotee of Lord Krishna and a regular at the local temple where she keeps making deals with God, like if God made sure Kapoor gets the best CEO award she would visit the temple to thank the God. Her son keeps making losses in the stock market. As a solution, she wants him to tie a sacred thread on his wrist and she also takes it upon herself to fast on his behalf, a ritual suggested by the temple priest.

     

    Producers: Indra Kumar, Ashok Thakeria.

    Director: Indra Kumar.

    Cast: Rekha, Sharman Joshi, Shweta Kumar, Randhir Kapoor, Anupam Kher, Rajesh Kumar

    All this religious stuff and her suggestions are totally unwelcome for all her family members. Her only sympathiser in her house is her servant who competes with Rekha in shedding tears every time she is humiliated. She prays to God to end her misery somehow. The servant’s plea is soon answered as her grandson, Sharman Josh, arrives from the US. Joshi adores Rekha and sees how badly she is treated by his nana and others in the house. He can’t tolerate his nani being treated the way she is. After all, she is educated, a Kathak exponent and though she may look washed out now, she was a pretty woman as Joshi remembers her from his childhood days spent with her.

    Joshi wants to change things for Rekha and decides that she can still be made to look as pretty as she was. Always with a camera around his neck, Joshi does a photo session with her making her dance to some of the old classic numbers from Shri 420, Mughal E Azam etc. While he sends copies to an ad agency managed by Anupam Kher, he also decides to blow up the pictures to display them in the family garden to surprise the family members.

    The display does not surprise the family members the way Joshi had planned. They are all livid and Kapoor asks his son, Rajesh Kumar, to burn the pictures.

    Anupam Kher, on his part, is impressed with Rekha’s pictures and turns up at her house with a contract for her for modelling. Kher also turns out to be Rekha’s childhood buddy. Kapoor as well as rest of her family wants her to reject the contract but, finally, Rekha rebels. She accepts the offer and is an overnight success.

    The family is handicapped without Rekha to run the household. But for Rekha, it is now time to turn her wayward family members around using her resources and the emotional connection with Joshi by her side thinking up ideas for her. Joshi is also romancing Rekha’s neighbour, Shweta Kumar (Daughter of producer- director, Indra Kumar).

    The problem with Super Nani is that while as a stage play it has to cater to a limited audience in a particular language, a film has to carry universal appeal. And, to top that, the story is too old fashioned for today’s generation as well as predictable as Rekha wins her family over one by one. The film also has limited face value. Direction is passable. Musically the film has one good song to offer in Maheroo Maheroo… and using a medley of old songs for Rekha’s photo shoot makes one conscious how deficient today’s music is. Rekha looks pretty as ever but not much fun to watch shedding tears all throughout. Joshi is good as her aide. Rest of the cast is okay with limited scope.

    Super Nani has had a poor opening and may find some patronage only from ladies audience.

     

    ‘Roar: Tigers Of The Sunderbans’….Visual pleasure

     

    Producer: Abis Rizvi.

    Director: Kamal Sadanah.

    Cast: Abhinav Shukla, Himarsha Venkatsamy, Achint Kaur, Subrat Dutta, Nora Fatehi, Ali Quli Mirza, Aadil Chahal, Varinder Singh Ghuman, Aaran Chaudhary, Pranay Dixit, Pulkit Jawahar.

    Roar is one of those rare films on wildlife India makers. Some producers in the south did venture into films involving animals but those were emotional dramas with animals acting as best friends of human master. Producer MM Chinappa Devar specialised in such films with Haathi Mere  Saathi, Gaai Aur Gauri etc. There have been other such films too like K C Bokadia’s Teri Meherbaniyan. Roar follows earlier films like Kal and Forest.

    Roar is about seven youngsters descending on Sunderbans, the famous Tiger Reserve in West Bengal which is known to have white tigers.

    These seven include trained commandoes and they are here in Sunderbans with a mission to kill a man-eater white tiger which had killed the brother of one of them. However, being a commando is not enough to face a man eater tiger, which they realise soon. Instead of them killing the tiger, they become its target.

    The film uses a lot of special effects and blends shots of Sunderbans with parts shot with trained tigers brought in from abroad. The film is directed by actor turned director, Kamal Sadanah whose direction as well as enthusiasm about the film is laudable.

  • Nautanki Films Madhubala takes up a social cause

    Nautanki Films Madhubala takes up a social cause

    MUMBAI: One of the most watched soaps on Colors – Nautanki Films’ Madhubala – is using its popularity to draw attention to a serious social issue like forced abortions, the serial’s lead protagonist Madhubala (Dhrasti Dhami) is seen in a dilemma which many women in India can relate to.

     

    In present day society, though women’s rights are being spoken and fought for, their liberty to take decisions stands as a question mark. Forced abortions, a prevalent concern, is faced by most of the members of the fairer sex irrespective of their caste, class or creed.

     

    Madhubala has taken up the task of bringing this issue to the forefront. The past week saw the show’s protagonist, Madhu’s, dreams getting crushed when her husband RK tries to coerce her to abort their first child to suit his own agenda. Standing against her husband’s wishes, Madhu makes a firm decision to keep the child.

     

    Nautanki Films co-producer Abhinav Shukla said in a release: “Many times injustices done against women go unnoticed. With our show we will try to throw light on these issues, we are hopeful the gravity of this social issue will reach out and make an impact on the show’s many viewers.”

     

    Going by the promos, the upcoming episodes will see Madhu suffer a supposed ‘accidental miscarriage’, symbolising the often sad fate that befalls Indian women.

    Nautanki Films co-producer Saurabh Tewari added: “It is not the first time we have introduced a social cause in the story, and it is definitely not the last time we will do so. We are quite pleased to use our show as a platform to showcase issues which affect the general public”

     

    Coincidentally the show had previously dabbled with the grave issue of female foeticide, wherein Madhubala’s mother was forced to drop her girl child by her husband and family, against whom she strongly fought and won, managing to keep the baby. It must be said that Nautanki Films’ Madhubala is surely proving to be quite an inspiration for its female fan following.

  • Nautanki Films production, Do Dil Ek Jaan successfully completes 100 episodes

    Nautanki Films production, Do Dil Ek Jaan successfully completes 100 episodes

    MUMBAI: The popular television show Do Dil Ek Jaan has completed a successful run of a 100 episodes. Having commenced early this June, the television series is already the #1 show on Star India’s Life OK, having proved its mettle in a short span.

    To commemorate the occasion, the entire cast and crew along with producers Abhinav Shukla and Saurabh Tewari of Nautanki Films celebrated on set. The daily soap revolves around a Kashmiri girl Antara (Nikita Sharma) who moves to the big city – Mumbai with her family and falls in love with a goon Raghu (Ayaz Ahmed).

    Having popularized the on-screen character, Antara on the show, Nikita Sharma expressed her happiness on completion of 100 episodes saying, “Do Dil Ek Jaan has changed my life. I am really overwhelmed and thankful for the love and support I have received from my fans. The completion of a 100 episodes feels really special after all the hard work we have put in. I feel we deserve the win.”

    Also known for the popular daily soap Madhubala, Nautanki Films founder, Abhinav Shukla said “The tremendous response the show received this early has come as a pleasant surprise to us. We are glad that the show has shaped up exactly the way we conceived it. The positive feedback received by the audience is really encouraging.”

    On the road ahead the production house’s co-founder Saurabh Tewari hinted “Viewers can expect major twists in the next four weeks. The ratings are already hitting rooftops, and we are expecting it to rise higher as the plot gets more interesting. Currently the show stands at number 6 online and it is the number one show on Life Ok. It is really exciting to see how, Do Dil Ek Jaan has caught on with the viewers”

    Watch Do Dil Ek Jaan, Mon- Fri 9pm only on Life OK.