ITV

Tag: Abhishek Bachchan

  • Hindi cinema shines bright at Filmfare’s 70th night

    Hindi cinema shines bright at Filmfare’s 70th night

    MUMBAI: Lights, camera, nostalgia! The 70th Hyundai Filmfare Awards 2025 with Gujarat Tourism turned Ahmedabad into the heart of Hindi cinema, where stars, stories and songs collided in a night of pure cinematic magic. The telecast of the unforgettable evening airs on 9 November at 9 pm across Zee TV, Zing and Zest, promising fans a front-row seat to the glamour, grandeur and golden memories.

    Hosted by the ever-charismatic Shah Rukh Khan, joined by Karan Johar and Maniesh Paul, the ceremony was a dazzling blend of celebration and emotion. The event honoured not just the brightest stars but the creative minds behind the camera, directors, writers, musicians and technicians, all of whom keep Indian cinema’s soul alive.

    One of the night’s most goosebump-inducing moments came when SRK and Kajol brought back the magic of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, leaving the audience awash in nostalgia. Adding a heartfelt touch, Abhishek Bachchan paid tribute to his legendary father with a dynamic medley of Amitabh Bachchan classics, from Khaike Paan Banaras Wala to Jumma Chumma.

    The evening’s rhythm soared higher with Akshay Kumar’s powerhouse performance of timeless hits and Kriti Sanon’s glamorous homage to Zeenat Aman, who, along with Shyam Benegal, received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. Ananya Panday brought Gujarat’s vibrant culture to life, while Siddhant Chaturvedi saluted Hindi cinema’s dance icons with electrifying energy.

    Taking the celebration sky-high, a stunning drone show lit up Ahmedabad’s skyline, tracing the evolution of Hindi cinema through the decades. A nostalgic ‘Cine Icon Awards’ segment revisited legends like Bimal Roy, Sridevi, Dilip Kumar, Nutan, and Amitabh Bachchan, right up to the 1990s icons SRK, Kajol and Karan Johar.

    The telecast also captures intimate moments, from the audience joining SRK to wish Big B a happy birthday to Ravi Kishan and Abhishek Bachchan winning their first-ever Filmfare trophies.

    So, polish that popcorn bowl and prepare for an unforgettable evening. The 70th Filmfare Awards 2025 promises everything Hindi cinema stands for, emotion, entertainment and eternal magic, on 9 November at 9 pm only on Zee TV, Zing and Zest.

     

  • Incred backs kabaddi with Jaipur Pink Panthers and Gujarat Giants tie-up

    Incred backs kabaddi with Jaipur Pink Panthers and Gujarat Giants tie-up

    MUMBAI: Credit where it’s due, kabaddi just got a fresh financial backer. Incred Financial Services Limited (Incred Finance), the tech-led NBFC known for its risk-analytics edge, has partnered with Jaipur Pink Panthers and Gujarat Giants as Associate Partner for the 2025 Pro Kabaddi League (PKL), starting 29 August.

    The move marks Incred’s push beyond cricket where cricketer Shreyas Iyer is already its brand face and into a sport that’s as desi as it gets. With kabaddi boasting more than 3 crore viewers and popularity stretching from metros to Tier 2, Tier 3 and rural markets, the partnership aligns neatly with Incred’s mission to extend credit access to aspirational India.

    The NBFC, with 140 plus branches and 2,500 plus employees, serves individuals and MSMEs with products spanning personal, education, MSME business, loan against property, and digital merchant loans. By associating with kabaddi, Incred hopes to amplify its reach in the underserved segments it champions.

    “InCred has always stood for resilience and ambition qualities that kabaddi reflects beautifully,” said Incred Finance founder & CEO Bhupinder Singh noting the sport’s deep grassroots connect. Incred Finance group head of marketing Radhika Zingade added that kabaddi’s energy and ethos mirror the brand’s own, calling the association with two powerhouse teams “a natural step.”

    And powerhouse is no exaggeration. Jaipur Pink Panthers, owned by Abhishek Bachchan, are two-time PKL champions with a consistent record of title runs. Meanwhile, Gujarat Giants made headlines this season by signing Mohammadreza Shadloui Chiyaneh for Rs 2.23 crore, the highest-ever bid in PKL history.

    With 12 teams battling it out across Vizag, Jaipur, Chennai, and Delhi, PKL Season 12 promises fierce tackles and fresh storylines. For Incred, it’s not just a game of sport, it’s a high-stakes play to connect with India’s heartland, where both credit and kabaddi matter most.

  • Realme Hip Hop India Season 2 becomes India’s #1 reality show of 2025

    Realme Hip Hop India Season 2 becomes India’s #1 reality show of 2025

    MUMBAI: Amazon MX Player’s Realme Hip Hop India Season 2 has cemented its place as the country’s biggest unscripted success story of the year. As per Ormax Media’s latest ranking of the Top 50 OTT Originals for H1 2025, the show emerged as India’s most-watched reality series, and the only one to trend for 11 consecutive weeks on Ormax’s weekly list of top OTT web shows.

    Season 2 brought India’s underground hip-hop dance movement into the mainstream with over 25 million unique viewers tuning in to witness raw talent, breakout performances, and deeply personal journeys. The series was anchored by judges Remo D’Souza and Malaika Arora, and amplified with appearances by leading personalities including Rajkummar Rao, Abhishek Bachchan, Raftaar, Sara Ali Khan, Munawar Faruqui, Aditya Roy Kapur, and Rohit Shetty, making it one of the most high-profile reality shows of the year. The finale crowned Shubhankar Gawde as India’s second hip-hop dance champion, capping off a season that redefined youth entertainment.

    Speaking on the show’s success, Karan Bedi, Head, Amazon MX Player, said: ‘Hip Hop India Season 2 stood at the intersection of culture, content, and commerce. It brought a powerful subculture into the mainstream and gave brands a credible, high-engagement platform to connect with young India. The response has been phenomenal both in terms of viewership and brand resonance.’

    The show raised the bar for branded content integrations and co-marketing at scale. Alongside title sponsor Realme, brands like Sprite, Tuborg, Pokémon, Spotify, and SpiceJet joined the movement in highly engaging ways. From innovative in-show integrations, immersive media ads, on-site and social media led gamification, to in-flight co-branding, Pokémon-themed dance acts, Spotify playlist integrations, the show created a high-impact ecosystem where brand narratives blended seamlessly with cultural moments.

    Echoing the sentiment, Amazon MX Player director and head of content, Amogh Dusad added, ‘With Realme Hip Hop India Season 2, we set out to showcase hip-hop not just as a dance form, but as a cultural voice. This season’s response proves that authenticity, when paired with relevance, wins big. We’re proud to see the franchise has become both a fan obsession and a brand magnet.’

  • Haier redefines luxury with Lumiere, India’s first 4-door convertible fridge

    Haier redefines luxury with Lumiere, India’s first 4-door convertible fridge

    MUMBAI: Haier Appliances India, has redefined luxury and innovation with the launch of Lumiere, India’s first 4-door convertible side-by-side refrigerator. The grand unveiling took place at the Hindustan Times (HT) India’s Most Stylish 2025, a celebration of fashion, glamour, and cutting-edge trends.

    Haier, the only brand manufacturing 4-door side-by-side refrigerators in India, continues to push boundaries in premium home appliances. Lumiere, designed for modern Indian homes, seamlessly blends advanced technology with refined aesthetics, setting new benchmarks in both style and functionality.

    The reveal was a showstopping moment, presented by actress and UN ambassador Dia Mirza, co-host Cyrus Sahukar, and , Haier Appliances India president NS Satish. Adding to the excitement, cinema icons Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan, Shikhar Dhawan, Kanika Kapoor, and Farhan Akhtar explored Lumiere’s sleek design and intelligent features at Haier’s exclusive brand zone during the red carpet segment.

    Haier Appliances India president Satish said,
    “At Haier India, we take immense pride in being the only brand in India manufacturing 4-door convertible side-by-side refrigerators. This achievement reflects our commitment to innovation and delivering solutions that cater to the evolving needs of modern Indian homes. The launch of the Haier Lumiere Series is a proud addition to our ‘Made in India, Made for India’ vision, combining advanced technology with elegant design. Our association with HT India’s Most Stylish 2025 provided the perfect platform to showcase a product that redefines style and functionality. As we continue to innovate, Haier remains dedicated to introducing appliances that elevate everyday living while complementing contemporary lifestyles with elegance and performance.”

    HT Media Group Ltd VP & head branded IPs Vijay Nair added, “We are delighted to have Haier India as a valued partner at the 13 edition of HT India’s Most Stylish. As the voice of the nation since 1924, HT has been at the forefront of culture, style, and innovation. This year, we crafted an immersive experience, celebrating 100 years of style through the cinematic lens where fashion met storytelling in its most iconic form. Haier’s spirit of innovation perfectly complemented our vision, making this collaboration truly special. We are proud to have provided a platform that showcased Haier’s commitment to redefining home experiences with style and functionality through the launch of the Lumiere series refrigerator.”

     

  • News18 Showsha Reel Awards stars shine bright

    News18 Showsha Reel Awards stars shine bright

    MUMBAI: The News18 Showsha Reel Awards 2025 celebrated the best of film and OTT at a glamorous event in Mumbai, bringing together the industry’s finest. Hosted by actor Arjun Kapoor, the evening recognised outstanding talent and storytelling across films and web series, with a star-studded red carpet.

    The event drew a collection of prominent figures, including Janhvi Kapoor, Raveena Tandon, Jaideep Ahlawat, Abhishek Bachchan, Aditi Rao Hydari, Varun Dhawan, Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Ramesh Sippy, Salim Khan, Ravi Kishan, Jyothika, Riteish Deshmukh, Yami Gautam, Rajkummar Rao, Pankaj Tripathi, Kabir Khan, Raj & DK, and Sonu Nigam. Nikhita Gandhi’s live performance added to the night’s vibrant atmosphere.

    Rajkummar and Janhvi received the Best Actor and Best Actress (Popular Choice) awards, while Dhawan and Samantha won Best Actor and Best Actress (OTT). Ahlawat and Hydari were also recognised for their OTT performances. Rising Star Awards went to Raghav Juyal and Pratibha Ranta. Pankaj Tripathi was named Entertainer of the Year.

    Abhishek, upon receiving Best Actor (jury), remarked, “This is actually my first-ever Best Actor Award. I’d like to thank the esteemed jury it’s an honour that you find me worthy of this award. But the credit for this performance has to go entirely to Shoojit (Sircar) Da. He’s made such a wonderful film.”

    Hydari, winner of the OTT Star of the Year (Female) award, shared, “This one is very special. Heeramandi is very special. My director Sanjay sir is very special. I love him dearly. I am because of my directors and I hope I will continue to be because of them. Every single ad on set, every single human being on set, every single four-legged puppy on set, everybody was part of that universe, and it really made those years that we spent shooting. I can’t be more grateful.”

    Kabir won Best Director for Chandu Champion, and Stree 2 won Best Film. Sippy and Salim were honoured with the Reel Legend Award. Raj & DK and Sonu Nigam also received awards.

    The jury, comprising Sachin Pilgaonkar, Madhur Bhandarkar, Mukesh Chhabra, Tavishi Paitandy, Lilette Dubey, and Shabana Azmi, ensured a fair selection process.

    Indian Language News18 and Local18 (TV & digital) chief executive officer Mitul Sangani said, “At News18, we take immense pride in recognizing exceptional talent across diverse formats, and genres. The News18 Showsha Reel Awards 2025 stands as a beacon of creative excellence, bringing together the best of Indian entertainment celebrating both mainstream and regional storytelling. We congratulate all the winners who have captivated audiences with their outstanding performances and storytelling.”

    English & Business News, Network18 CEO Smriti Mehra added, “The News18 Showsha Reel Awards 2025 is a testament to the power of storytelling and the impact of cinema and OTT on audiences worldwide. As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, we are proud to recognise the artists and creators who challenge conventions and craft unforgettable narratives.”

  • Abhishek Bachchan’s heartfelt drama “I Want To Talk” premieres on Prime Video

    Abhishek Bachchan’s heartfelt drama “I Want To Talk” premieres on Prime Video

    MUMBAI: A dimly lit living room, a steaming cup of chai in hand, and Prime Video on your screen. You click ‘play’, thinking you’re ready for Shoojit Sircar’s latest masterpiece, I Want To Talk.

    Spoiler alert—you’re not ready.

    Known for crafting stories that hit you like a runaway truck full of feels (Piku, anyone?), Shoojit Sircar has once again proven he’s the maestro of raw emotions. And this time, he’s teamed up with Abhishek Bachchan—yes, the guy we all once (perhaps unfairly) dismissed as the not-so-Amitabh. But let’s hold that thought because this movie flips the script entirely.

    In I Want To Talk, Abhishek delivers a career-defining performance that says, “Remember me? Well, you will now.” Shoojit Sircar, with his midas touch, peels back layers of humanity so deeply you’ll find yourself questioning your life choices, texting old friends, and yes, sobbing into that aforementioned chai.

    So, clear your weekend plans, charge your emotions, and prepare to be wrecked—in the best possible way.

    In I Want to Talk, Abhishek Bachchan steps into the shoes of Arjun Sen, a sharp, chatty Bengali man chasing the “American Dream.” But here’s the kicker: Arjun has just 100 days to live. Yep, you read that right—100 days to untangle a lifetime of complications. From reuniting with his estranged seven-year-old daughter to redefining what truly matters, this father-daughter saga is all about finding connection in the chaos.

    With a stellar cast including Ahilya Bamroo, Johnny Lever, Jayant Kriplani, Pearle Dey, and Kristin Goddard, and backed by the visionary team at Rising Sun Films, I Want To Talk promises to be as moving as it is inspiring.

    Speaking about the film, Sircar said, “I Want To Talk is a poignant reminder of the indomitable power of human connection and resilience. I’ve always been fascinated by the complexities of human relationships and how these can help one heal and transform.”

    Honestly, Sircar’s track record—from Piku to October—has been impeccable. So, are we surprised that this film is already being dubbed a masterpiece? Not really.

    Still on the fence? Here are three reasons to hit play on Prime Video tonight:

    1.  The Plot: A 100-day ticking clock? Stakes don’t get higher—or more emotional—than that.

    2.   The Cast: Abhishek Bachchan in one of his career-best performances, alongside a powerhouse supporting cast.

     3.  The Director: Shoojit Sircar’s genius at weaving intricate human emotions is unmatched.

    Add to that the stunning cinematography and a soul-stirring soundtrack, and you’ve got a movie that’s not just watched—it’s felt.

    Prime members in 240+ countries and territories can stream the movie starting today. If you’ve ever needed a reason to renew that subscription, this is it.

    What would you do if you had just 100 days left? Would you chase old dreams, mend broken relationships, or binge-watch every Shoojit Sircar film on Prime? Maybe all three?

     

  • Abhishek Bachchan joins as co-owner of European T20 Premier League

    Abhishek Bachchan joins as co-owner of European T20 Premier League

    MUMBAI: In the sprawling galaxy of Bollywood, where stars burn bright and fade faster, Abhishek Bachchan’s journey has been anything but conventional.

    Born to the towering icon of Indian cinema, Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek’s life was destined to be compared, scrutinized, and, at times, unfairly dismissed. While his cinematic exploits didn’t always light up the box office, his off-screen ventures have cemented his reputation as a savvy entrepreneur with a penchant for turning opportunities into gold.

    The “failed” actor narrative has followed him like a shadow, an unwelcome companion on a path littered with average box office returns and harsh critics. But Abhishek, the perennial underdog, quietly chiseled away at his destiny, crafting a legacy that his detractors couldn’t ignore.

    Today, with a net worth of Rs 280 crore, he has proven that success doesn’t always need a film camera—it can shine just as brightly in the boardroom, the stadium, or even a luxury car showroom.

    When Bollywood failed to give him the box-office accolades his lineage seemed to promise, Abhishek found his calling elsewhere. His ventures now span real estate, sports, and even luxury automobiles, painting a portrait of a man who refuses to be boxed in by societal expectations.

    Among his prized investments are two champion teams across two of India’s most beloved sports. Chennaiyin FC, his Indian Super League (ISL) football team, is valued at Rs 29.8 crore, a testament to the growing popularity of football in cricket-crazed India. On the other hand, his Pro Kabaddi League team, valued at Rs 100 crore, exemplifies his eye for high-growth opportunities in sports.

    As if his track record wasn’t impressive enough, the son of Bollywood royalty has now added another feather to his entrepreneurial cap—a stake in the European T20 Premier League (ETPL). This ICC-sanctioned cricket extravaganza, set to debut in July 2025, promises to bring a fresh flavor to the gentleman’s game with teams from cities like Dublin, Edinburgh, and Amsterdam.

    It’s a savvy move for the man who seems to have an uncanny knack for betting on winners, whether it’s a Pro kabaddi team, a football club, or now, a cricket league poised to capture Europe’s imagination. And this latest venture comes just in time to capitalise on the ICC’s official recognition of the league, adding another layer of prestige to the tournament and, of course, to its newest co-owner.

    Bachchan expressed his excitement, saying, “Cricket is not just a sport; it’s a unifying force that transcends boundaries. With cricket being included in the 2028 Olympics, its popularity will further surge. I’m humbled and excited about this unique collaboration between the cricket boards of Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands. This is just the beginning. It’s time to roll up our sleeves and let the games begin.”

    The league’s interim working group, featuring representatives from the participating cricket boards and strategic partner Rules Sport Tech, has led the development of ETPL. This group is tasked with creating a dedicated administrative entity to oversee tournament operations.

    ETPL chair & Cricket Ireland CEO, Warren Deutrom welcomed Abhishek’s involvement, stating, “We are delighted to welcome Abhishek Bachchan as a co-owner of the ETPL. His passion for sports and entrepreneurial acumen align perfectly with our vision of elevating European cricket’s profile.”

    The tournament will commence with six franchises, with matches reaching audiences in key markets like Europe, India, Australia, and England. ETPL director, Priyanka Kaul highlighted, “Abhishek’s enthusiasm for this initiative has been invaluable. This collaboration is set to inspire young talent and provide a platform for European cricket on the global stage.”

    The ETPL has partnered with KPMG for strategic financial advisory, ensuring transparency and robust governance. Ravi Rajan Group founder, S Ravi emphasised the league’s commitment to financial integrity, stating, “Transparency and due diligence are at the core of the ETPL.”

    Cricket’s global reach continues to expand, with 34 of 108 ICC members based in Europe. ETPL director, Saurav Banerjee remarked, “Our goal is to establish cricket as a major sport in Europe, leaving a legacy for players, fans, and stakeholders.”

    A formal launch event will soon unveil franchise ownership details, team branding, and the players’ draft process. With backing from leading media partners, the ETPL is set to captivate cricket enthusiasts worldwide, offering unparalleled entertainment and fostering new talent.

    Key highlights of ETPL

    1    Dates: 15 July – 3 August 2025
    2    Teams: Dublin, Belfast, Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Edinburgh, Glasgow
    3    Global Reach: Europe, India, Australia, England
    4    Partnerships: ICC sanction, Rules Sport Tech, KPMG advisory
    5    Focus: Talent development, fan engagement, financial transparency

    Critics may still label him a failed film star, but Bachchan’s story is one of quiet defiance—a refusal to be pigeonholed by the weight of his last name or the expectations of an industry that thrives on comparisons.

    Today, as the ETPL prepares to roll out its maiden season, the spotlight is once again on Abhishek. But this time, it’s not as a Bollywood star struggling to escape his father’s shadow. It’s as a visionary entrepreneur who’s carving his own path, one smart investment at a time. 

  • Prisma AI partners with Jaipur Pink Panthers

    Prisma AI partners with Jaipur Pink Panthers

    Mumbai: Fusing the excitement of homegrown sports with the power of cutting-edge technology that is made in India, Prisma AI announced a partnership with the Jaipur Pink Panthers, the professional Pro-Kabaddi League team.

    The partnership aims to introduce a next-generation ticketing system powered by Prisma AI’s verification platform Veri5 that allows audiences to enter using facial recognition technology instead of a QR code, making the tedious task of entering the stadiums quick and hassle-free. It also adds a layer of AI-powered security enhancements for the fans and the organizers.

    By deploying Prisma AI’s unique visual AI algorithms, the system effectively helps minimize large crowds and wait times accompanying any sporting event, allowing for quick and efficient access and elevating the stadium experience for fans, teams, and organizers.

    A turning point in the Pro-Kabaddi League, this fusion of technology and sports will be the first time a global Indian AI company will collaborate with an Indian sporting team to deliver an unrivalled experience.

    As part of the partnership, Prisma AI is closely working with the Jaipur Pink Panthers team and paytm insider to bring the power of computer vision to drive fan engagement and access to the venues for a seamless and secure experience.

    Jaipur Pink Panthers owner Abhishek Bachchan said, “Our collaboration with Prisma AI marks a groundbreaking phase in sports technology. This partnership reflects Jaipur Pink Panthers’ dedication to adopting technological advancements for the betterment of our devoted fan base.”

    Prisma AI chairman and group CEO Dr Shreeram Iyer said, “As an Indian company, we take great pride in collaborating with the Jaipur Pink Panthers, representing a sport deeply embedded in our country’s culture. Our partnership aims to utilize computer vision for an improved in-stadium fan experience, streamlined venue access, and enhanced venue security.”

    The Gratitude Company founder and Prisma AI advisor Juspreet Singh Walia said, “We are thrilled to announce the exciting collaboration between Jaipur Pink Panthers and Prisma AI. This partnership signifies a strategic alliance between two innovative forces in sports and technology. Together, we aim to redefine the landscape of fan engagement and performance analytics.

  • Ghoomer cast bowl over 100 young, underprivileged beneficiaries’ hearts with BookASmile

    Ghoomer cast bowl over 100 young, underprivileged beneficiaries’ hearts with BookASmile

    Mumbai: The enchanting world of cinema knows no bounds in its ability to inspire and entertain. The transformative influence of movies and their capacity to positively impact the lives of young individuals is massive. Through gripping narratives, reels and real stories hold a unique influence over the minds of young audiences, inspiring them to ignite their imaginations and aspire to great heights!

    Continuing its efforts to create impact through entertainment, BookASmile, the charity initiative of BookMyShow, India’s leading entertainment destination, arranged a special screening of R Balki’s latest directorial, Ghoomer, an inspiring sports-drama starring Abhishek Bachchan and Saiyami Kher in Mumbai, at PVR Cinemas, Juhu, for over 100 young beneficiaries from underprivileged backgrounds. In partnership with Oscar Foundation, a community based Sports for Development (S4D) organisation, BookASmile orchestrated this exclusive screening for these aspiring young athletes seeking to carve a future in sports.

    The experience was elevated to a whole new level for the young audience, as the film’s leads, Abhishek Bachchan and Saiyami Kher, graciously engaged with them, delving into discussions about various aspects such as movies, sports, dreams and life! These stars left the youngsters brimming with emotions and sporting broad smiles on their faces. Ghoomer, with its seamless blend of sports and cinema, was carefully selected to resonate with young viewers, inspiring them with its powerful narrative of conquering obstacles and attaining greatness.

    Speaking about the special initiative, BookASmile head Farzana Cama Balpande said, “We are thrilled to witness the ecstatic reactions from the young audience as they watched the film on the big screen, today.  It was truly heartwarming to see their enthusiasm double as Abhishek Bachchan and Saiyami Kher paid a surprise visit after the screening! Watching them glued to screen at the edge of their seats during the screening reaffirmed our belief in the power of cinema to inspire and uplift. Since many of these youngsters aspire to build their careers in sports, they resonated deeply with the film and left the screening with big hopes and even bigger dreams! We’re extremely grateful to both actors for giving us their time from packed schedules and bringing about a change in the lives of this young audience. Through initiatives like these, we aim to not only provide entertainment but also to plant seeds of inspiration that can lead to new possibilities and dreams!”

    Commenting on being a part of the initiative, Bachchan said, “Every child deserves the chance to dream and sometimes, all it takes is a little bit of magic to light up their world. Ghoomer holds a really special place in our hearts and watching these young guns training to be sportspersons who are so passionate about their journey, immersed into the movie and resonating with the sportsmanship is so heartening. A tale of redemption and resilience, Ghoomer reminds us that in life, just like in sports, one can always turn the game around. I’m grateful to BookASmile for arranging this special screening and bridging the gap for these future stars! Let’s continue to spread smiles and inspiration, for it is in these moments, that we discover the true power of dreams.”

    Adding to this, Kher said, “To be a part of an initiative that teaches young children that no hurdle is insurmountable and dreams can still take flight even when life throws a curveball is something that makes my heart so happy. The sheer excitement and energy in the theatre was palpable and we’re so thrilled that our work has made such an impact. It’s truly heartwarming to see that BookASmile has been instrumental in providing these cultural experiences and supporting the growth and dreams of young beneficiaries by channeling the power of entertainment through sports. These young kids have so much to offer to the world and I hope Ghoomer can power their aspirations to make it happen!”

    Through this special screening of Ghoomer, the theatre was filled with a range of emotions, applauses and nail-biting moments as the youth enjoyed this inspiring flick on the silver screen, immersed in every bit of the cinematic experience as the film unfolded the various twists and turns in the story! 

  • Ghoomer’s inspiring tale enthuses Mumbai deaf women’s cricket team at the PVR screening

    Ghoomer’s inspiring tale enthuses Mumbai deaf women’s cricket team at the PVR screening

    Mumbai: Cricket is India’s most popular game; nothing can beat the euphoria of watching our players own the game. The men’s and women’s cricket teams swell our chests with pride. Recently released “Ghoomer” is a poignant tale showcasing the achievements of differently abled athletes in the face of adversity. The plot revolves around Anina (Saiyami Kher), a gifted cricket player whose aspirations are shattered by a life-altering event. Regardless of the setback, Anina remains unyielding, and, with the guidance of her coach Paddy (Abhishek Bachchan), she embarks on a journey to make a comeback. The duo collaborates to create a unique bowling technique, Ghoomer, which becomes the cornerstone of Anina’s triumph. The movie is a potent reminder that no challenge is insurmountable if one has the courage to persevere.

    In a remarkable celebration of sporting determination and perseverance, PVR INOX hosted an exclusive screening for the Mumbai Deaf Women’s Cricket Team. The movie stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of athletes who have triumphed over challenges in the realm of sports and served as a true tribute to the real-life sportswomen, who have stood against all odds. The eventful evening witnessed the presence of Abhishek Bachchan and Saiyami Kher, who added an extra layer of excitement for the attendees. The renowned star cast joined the Mumbai Deaf Women’s Cricket team for this special occasion, marking a true fusion of inspiration and recognition, and was amazed by the Team’s determined energy.

    The players were captivated by the stellar performances portrayed in the movie and took the opportunity to engage with the star cast in conversations that highlighted the dedication and hard work put into bringing the narrative to life.

    Commenting on the overwhelming response received for the film across the country, and during the screening, PVR INOX Ltd co-CEO  Gautam Dutta said, “Ghoomer stands as a profoundly moving cinematic piece, a testament to the unwavering commitment, resilience, and unyielding determination in the face of challenges. The narrative not only resonates with those who have triumphed over adversity but also resonates with all those who aspire to excel in the world of sports. It has been a privilege for us to extend our hospitality to the Mumbai Deaf Women’s Cricket team. Much like Anina’s character in the film, these exceptional athletes exemplify breaking boundaries and realizing ambitions. Their genuine appreciation for the film is truly gratifying, and we eagerly anticipate embarking on many more such meaningful initiatives in the times ahead.”

    Indian Deaf Cricket Association CEO Roma Balwani commented on the screening and the movie and shared, “Ghoomer is truly an exceptional film, and the thoughtful arrangement of this special evening by PVR INOX has been deeply appreciated by all of us, especially the team. The film possesses an inherent emotional resonance and strikes a chord not only with our women’s cricket team but also with athletes confronting similar challenges. It’s heartening to witness their stories of perseverance, dedication, and innate talent being acknowledged and celebrated. Our appeal is to help create awareness about disability sports & deaf cricket in India which will immensely help gain recognition from the GOI, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports in this category of cricket. We look forward to more support for this worthy cause of providing official recognition for this distinct cricket category.”

    Sharing his reflections on the evening, Actor Abhishek Bachchan, who portrays the role of Coach Paddy in the film, expressed, “Meeting these remarkable female athletes, who, much like Anina, have triumphed over adversities to achieve the extraordinary, is an immense privilege. Their genuine appreciation and recognition for Ghoomer hold a special significance. Being a part of this event brings me immense joy. In connecting with the women cricketers of IDCA, I earnestly hope that our film, akin to their journey, serves as an inspiration for aspiring cricketers and athletes at large. My heartfelt gratitude to PVR INOX for this opportunity.”