Tag: Himesh Reshammiya

  • Albert Kabo Lepcha wins Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2023 title

    Albert Kabo Lepcha wins Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2023 title

    Mumbai: After three months of being on the quest of perfecting their sur-taal through endless riyaaz and delivering some performances, Zee TV’s Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2023 comes to an end. Throughout the season, viewers have watched the judges – Himesh Reshammiya, Anu Malik, and Neeti Mohan guide these budding singing sensations, while Aditya Naryan entertained one and all as the show’s host. And now, racing ahead of all the contestants, we have Albert Kabo Lepcha as the winner of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa amidst much fanfare and celebrations. A consistent performer throughout the season who was much loved by the judges and viewers of the show, Albert Kabo Lepcha was presented with the coveted trophy during the grand finale. On the other hand, finalists Nishtha Sharma and Ranita Banerjee were announced as the first and second runners-up respectively.  

    This season was all about the industry-first promise of giving its talent a chance to record original singles even before the season ends, every week one of the contestants got the golden chance to launch their OG song with Zee Music Co, and with the show drawing the curtains, the grand finale was nothing short of an entertainment extravaganza packed with some breathtaking performances and soulful acts. The final episode commenced with a power-packed performance by the top five finalists of the show – Sonia Gazmer, Sneha Bhattacharya, Nishtha Sharma, Albert Kabo Lepcha and Ranita Banerjee which left everyone spellbound. The episode was double the fun, as the judges were joined by the evergreen Govinda, his wife Sunita Ahuja, and veteran actress Aruna Irani. Not just that, the episode was co-hosted by Haarsh Limbachiyaa alongside Aditya Narayan.

    During the episode, viewers got to watch the legendary actor Govinda in his element, dancing to the song ‘Oo Haseena Zulfowaali’ along with the judge – Neeti Mohan. He also set the stage on fire with his performance to the song ‘Chadti Jawaani’ with the beautiful guest Aruna Irani. Not just that!  Govinda also sang a beautiful song – ‘Sathiya Nahi Jana Ke Jee Na Lage’ for his beloved wife – Sunita and while all the special moments as well as the performances kept everyone hooked, the final face off performance of the top 5 contestants left the audience glued to their television screens.

    Winner of the Sa Re Ga Ma 2023, Albert said, “This is a dream come true for me! Honestly, the competition was tough as all the contestants of the season were very talented, and I really feel grateful that I got to share the stage with them. My journey on the show has been a great learning experience and I would like to thank all my mentors and judges who have constantly supported me and helped me scale my potential as a singer. I even got the chance to record and release my own single, composed by the iconic Vivek kar; I received loads of love for that. I am definitely taking a bundle of memories along with me and looking forward to my new singing journey ahead. Thank you to each and every person for making this a beautiful experience.”  

    Himesh Reshammiya said, “First of all I would like to congratulate Albert, he has been consistent in giving his best throughout the season and has always exceeded expectations. He has surprised us week after week and always strived for perfection. Moreover, this time Sa Re Ga Ma Pa gave an amazing opportunity to all the contestants to release their original singles, which has certainly kickstarted their musical journey in the entertainment industry. Lastly, I would like to say all the best to all the contestants as they’ve started their careers and I am sure all of them will reach great heights in the future.”

    Neeti Mohan said, “According to me, all the top 5 are winners of this season, but of course, we can only have one winner. Albert’s win is very well deserved. I have loved and enjoyed his performances throughout the season, and I believe he is a really versatile singer with the potential to make his career in the industry. I am glad that I was able to witness such amazing talent perform in front of me. I wish the best for all the contestants; I am sure they all will work hard to fulfill their dreams in the music industry.”

    Anu Malik said, “I had a great experience working on this show and I would like to say ‘Congratulations Albert, I am so proud of you’.. From his first performance till today, I am glad that his hard work has finally paid off. I must say that this season has been incredible, and every contestant has left us floored by their amazing talent. During the show, I saw such wonderful talent and I also composed two OG songs, one for Rik Basu and the second one for Nishtha Sharma. Indeed, it was great working with them. My best wishes and blessings to all the contestants of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa.”

    While the audience enjoyed every moment during the finale episode, the epic performances by the talented contestants will surely be an unforgettable experience for one and all.

    While Sa Re Ga Ma Pa culminated with a bang, stay tuned to Zee TV as the channel continues to entertain you with exciting fiction shows on a daily basis! 

  • Zee TV’s Sa Re Ga Ma Pa emerges as every advertisers’ preferred platform

    Zee TV’s Sa Re Ga Ma Pa emerges as every advertisers’ preferred platform

    Mumbai: Carrying forward its rich musical legacy of nearly 30 years, Zee TV’s iconic singing reality show, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa recently returned with a new season, featuring Himesh Reshammiya, Neeti Mohan, Anu Malik as judges, and Aditya Narayan as the host. With a brand new format and the exciting promise of giving its talent opportunities to record original singles even before the season ends, the hunt for India’s OG voices has created quite a stir among the audience, while emerging as the preferred choice for advertisers.

    Through the years, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, given its credibility as the country’s longest-running and most definitive singing platform, has forged partnerships with numerous leading brands. However, this year marks a significant milestone as the show has brought on board an impressive line-up of 18 sponsors for its upcoming season. These esteemed sponsors include Maruti Suzuki India Ltd: Co-Title, Dabur India Ltd: Co-Presenting & Associate Sponsor, Mondelez India Foods Ltd: Co-Powered By, Hindustan Unilever Ltd: Co-Title & Special Partner, Rajdhani Flour Mills: Special Partner, Procter & Gamble: Special Partner, WhatsApp LLC: Special Partner, Loreal India Private Ltd: Special Partner, Berger Paints India Ltd: Special Partner, The Association of Mutual Funds in India: Associate Sponsor, Bandhan Bank: Special Partner, Capital Foods Private Ltd: Special Partner, Kohler India Corporation (HAR): Special Partner, Eveready Industries India Ltd ( Kol ): Special Partner, H&M Hennes & Mauritz: Special Partner and Wipro Enterprises Private Ltd: Special Partner. The use of customized solutions for brands seems to have had a positive impact, resulting in the acquisition of 18 sponsors. It highlights the effectiveness of ZEE sales team in tailoring approaches to meet the needs of each sponsor.

    ZEE chief growth officer, advertisement revenue Ashish Sehgal said, “As the pioneer of music reality shows in India, Zee’s Sa Re Ga Ma Pa has become an iconic brand in itself and has been among the most-watched shows across India in its run of more than two decades. In the new season of Zee TV’s Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, we have added extra layers of uniqueness which stems from our profound expertise in creating content that resonates deeply with our audiences across India. With our hyper-local approach of scouting talents, the show has created a strong connection with our viewers as the top contestants face tough musical challenges to release their own original songs on Zee Music Company. This provides the perfect opportunity to seamlessly integrate the brand communications of our sponsors led by our anchor, judges, and the contestants. We are extremely delighted with the response from the brands and I whole-heartedly welcome all the 18 sponsors on board – who have continued the trust in our platform, as we embark into the festive season together. With our curated multimedia promotion plan, each sponsor will get phenomenal 360-degree exposure and innovative brand engagement opportunities in every phase of the show to bring out the brand’s core propositions effortlessly and leave a long-lasting impression among our viewers in this vibrant festive season. I am certain that this new season of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa will re-ignite the musical spark among millions of our viewers and generate immense value for our esteemed partners.”

    Zee TV business head Aparna Bhosle said, “We are delighted to see an exceptional response from advertisers for our new season of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa. A combination of some remarkable fresh talent coupled with a revamped format has elevated our appeal with both the audience and brands alike. Our team is poised to bring you the OG voices of India who, basis their performance in the season, are already getting opportunities to record their original singles to be released by Zee Music Company. With so much excitement in store every episode, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa remains an unparalleled platform for brands to leave a lasting impact with audiences, given our extensive reach and dedicated viewership.”

    Maruti Suzuki India Ltd Sr executive officer, marketing & sales Shashank Srivastava said, “This marks the beginning of an interesting partnership between Maruti Suzuki Arena,  India’s  largest automotive channel and the iconic television show – Sa Re Ga Ma Pa. We believe in bringing the joy of mobility to all and creating exciting new experiences. Maruti Suzuki Arena brings this vision to reality with a modern, tech-enabled and youthful experience. Now, “Find Your Match” with our wide array of cars and network. Sa Re Ga Ma Pa shares a similar journey where talent meets opportunity. This collaboration elevates our brand positioning amongst the relevant audience. Hoping, together, we deliver a great season.”

    Hindustan Unilever Ltd VP – F&B Shiva Krishnamurthy said, “We are pleased to associate with Zee TV and their iconic show, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa. Taj Mahal tea has always championed Indian classical music. Stalwarts like Ustad Zakir Hussain, Niladri Kumar, Rahul Sharma and now Nirlai Kartik have endorsed it. Taj Mahal tea salutes craftsmanship – whether it is a master tea blender or a music maestro. We look forward to celebrating musical talent with this show.”

    With the new season of the show striking a harmonious chord with both its ardent viewers and a multitude of esteemed sponsors, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa has showcased the enduring appeal and innovation that have been the hallmark of this iconic show once again. As it continues to provide a stage for fresh talent to shine and captivate audiences of all ages, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa continues to stand as a beacon of entertainment brilliance, promising not only musical excellence but also a unique avenue for advertisers to forge lasting connections with a diverse and engaged audience. With this season’s impressive lineup of sponsors and talent, the journey ahead promises to be a melodious symphony of success for all involved.

    Stay tuned to Sa Re Ga Ma Pa for some magical performances and limitless entertainment, on Saturdays and Sundays at 9 PM, only on Zee TV!

     

  • New Season of Zee TV’s Sa Re Ga Ma Pa premieres on 26 August

    New Season of Zee TV’s Sa Re Ga Ma Pa premieres on 26 August

    Mumbai: After the raging success of its previous season last year, Zee TV’s iconic singing reality show, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa returns with an exciting new season that has Himesh Reshammiya, Neeti Mohan, Anu Malik as judges and Aditya Narayan as the host. Premiering on 26 August, the new season is poised to change the game with a new format that includes spontaneous challenges thrown at contestants by the judges after one of their peers has delivered an outstanding act in a particular style or genre … Rather than a set template with weekly rounds one is familiar with, this challenging environment is bound to shake up the room a bit, stimulate a competitive edge amongst the contestants and pack in a new surprise for its viewers in every single episode!

    Two months ago, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa announced a nationwide quest for ‘OG’ voices across India. For the first time ever, the audition process went paperless – led by a strong digital leg and even the on-ground phase saw negligible use of paper as a part of the channel’s endeavour of being environmentally responsible. Leaving no stone unturned in scouting the best of talent, the creative team even welcomed recommendations from anyone who could spot raw talent around. While each aspirant’s distinctive singing style and proficiency determined their success, it was only the truly ‘OG’ that made the cut. From the panel unanimously agreeing that West Bengal’s Albert Kabo Lepcha has the voice of a hero after hearing his soulful rendition of ‘I Love You’ to Kharagpur’s Sonia Gazmer modulating her voice only the way she can, acing both the male and female portions of ‘Nagin Se Meri Chaal’; From Delhi’s Sana Arora who struck a chord, strumming a guitar as she sang ‘Love You Zindagi’ to Mumbai’s Abdul whose eyes convey as much passion as his voice when he sings ‘Teri Yaadon Mein’; From UP’s Nishtha Sharma leaving everyone spellbound with her aalaap of ‘Banarasiya’ to Kolkata’s Ranita Banerjee standing up to Himesh’s on-the-spot challenge and rendering an equally evocative rendition of the same song, audiences are in for an exceptional musical extravaganza, marking a grand celebration of music this season!

    Zee TV business head Aparna Bhosle said, “With Sa Re Ga Ma Pa’s rich legacy spanning nearly three decades, we take pride in staying true to our commitment of showcasing the most distinctive, extraordinary voices of India. To fuel a healthy spirit of competition and make the viewer experience more dynamic, we are infusing this season with spontaneous challenges to the talent and rewarding the top performers with an opportunity to release their original singles via Zee Music Company. This should make for a compelling watch”.

    ZEE chief growth officer, advertisement revenue Ashish Sehgal said, “Sa Re Ga Ma Pa’s new season has created great buzz among audiences in the run-up to its launch. I am delighted to welcome Maruti and Dabur as the main sponsors for this highly anticipated show, which will not only help us find new talent but will launch original singers in the industry.  We thank our sponsors for being part of this journey and l look forward to more such associations.”

    Dabur India Ltd head- oral care Augustus Daniel said, “We are pleased to announce our association with Zee TV. Their large viewership would help in building awareness about our new launch in the Gels toothpaste category – “Dabur Red Bae Fresh Gel”. The brand has been meticulously crafted with Gen Z and millennials in mind – ‘BAE – Before Anyone Else’ captures the essence of a close friend or a partner, while ‘irresistible freshness’ appeals to youth aiming to leave a lasting impact in every interaction.”

    Get ready to witness the exciting new season of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, starting 26 August, every Saturday and Sunday at 9 pm, only on Zee TV!

  • ‘Indian Idol’ set to return with season 13 from 10 September on Sony

    ‘Indian Idol’ set to return with season 13 from 10 September on Sony

    Mumbai: Sony Entertainment Television is all set to launch season 13 of its flagship singing reality show, Indian Idol. The show will premiere on 10 September and will air every Saturday and Sunday at 8:00 p.m.

    This year’s campaign “Phir saath aane ka bahana hai, ab mausam musicana hai” brought alive the celebration of music and togetherness.

    The show will be hosted by Aditya Narayan and the ultimate trio – Himesh Reshammiya, Neha Kakkar and Vishal Dadlani – will reprise their roles as judges once again. The channel noted that they are here to make the ‘mausam musicana!’

    SET head-programming (non-fiction), channel Sonal Yadav said, “Indian Idol is a revolutionary show that has set a precedent since its launch. The platform has given recognition to many aspiring singers who have always dreamt of making it big in the world of music. With Season 13, our core focus is to highlight real and aspirational singers who bring out variety and uniqueness. Through the multi-city on-ground auditions this year, we have truly managed to scout some exceptional talent. With the expertise Himesh Reshammiya, Neha Kakkar and Vishal Dadlani bring to the table, Indian Idol is ready to make the ‘mausam musicana.’ Also, collaborating with Fremantle has always been a pleasure, and with season 13, we yet again look forward to a successful season of Indian Idol.”

    Under the production of Fremantle, the singing reality show has brought families together, making it a wholesome viewing experience. With incomparable voices and inspiring stories, the show is the one-stop singing platform that provides unlimited entertainment and caters to viewers across age-groups.

    Fremantle India managing director Aradhana Bhola commented, “Indian Idol isn’t just a show for us, it is a promise of limitless talent, opportunities, and lives changed for the better, forever. We can’t wait to bring forth the diverse singing talent and inspiring life stories of this season to the viewers and continue our legacy of having them find a special place in the hearts of millions of Indians.”

    Also, this year, the show hosted the multi-city on-ground auditions in 11 cities after a gap of two years and witnessed overwhelming participation. Like every year, in its 13th season, the show is set to bring to the fore diverse musical talent from across India, bringing forth the country’s rich multi-cultural background. Right from genres like pop, classical, fusion, folk, opera, and more, this season will see some exceptionally talented Davedaars bring out versatility, rhythm, and soul through their singing talent.

  • ‘Sa Re Ga Ma Pa’ returns with new season on Zee TV

    ‘Sa Re Ga Ma Pa’ returns with new season on Zee TV

    Mumbai: Following the success of “Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Li’l Champs” last year, Zee TV has announced the return of its longest-running singing reality show, “Sa Re Ga Ma Pa,” starting 16 October, every Saturday and Sunday at 9 p.m.

    The upcoming season of the show will see Shankar Mahadevan, Himesh Reshammiya, and Vishal Dadlani come together as judges. “As we kick-off ‘Music Ka Sabse Bada Tyohaar’ during the festive season, I am sure we will have double the fun. It’s all the more exciting to be judging this season alongside Vishal and Himesh and I‘m hoping to have a marvellous time judging the show with the two of them,” shared Mahadevan.

    Singer-anchor Aditya Narayan will be seen turning host for the upcoming season, returning to the show after his last stint in 2018. “Sa Re Ga Ma Pa has always held a special place in my heart as I started my hosting career with this show, and I feel really honoured to be associated with it. It marked the beginning of my career, and it continues to do so for numerous budding singers across India,” commented Narayan.

    “Sa Re Ga Ma Pa” announced its auditions for the season three months ago with the show’s in-house creative team and production houses – Zee Studios and The Content Team evaluating fresh talent day in, day out to pick only the most promising voices with true potential, said the channel in a statement.

    “Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, our deeply cherished singing reality platform has stayed relevant to music lovers of today and continues to carry forth a legacy we are collectively proud of as a nation, simply because of its golden standards of excellence in singing calibre,” said Zee TV business head Aparna Bhosle. “As we enter the festive season, we are keen to present the latest season as the biggest celebration of music ever. We hope to discover some rare gems and hone them to perfection while entertaining our audiences every weekend!”    

    The platform that has been instrumental in discovering some of the most prominent singing stars of the music fraternity over the past 25 years including the likes of Shreya Ghoshal, Kunal Ganjawala, Kamal Khan, Amanat Ali, Raja Hassan, Sanjeevani, and Bela Shende is back on television.

    “Although I have been a part of several seasons of this reality show, each season has left me surprised with the kind of talent that appears on stage,” stated Himesh Reshammiya. “They are not just adept in the field of music but have their own style and aura of presenting songs, which all the more makes each season worthwhile to watch. Even after all these years, I am quite thrilled to be a part of the judge’s panel because I truly believe that it is going to be a real treat to watch these raw talents perform.”

    “Sa Re Ga Ma Pa and I go back a long way and it truly feels wonderful to return to the show after a while. What makes this season more exciting is the celebration of music that we are kickstarting as well as the chance of sharing the judge’s panel with some of the finest names in the industry,” said Vishal Dadlani. “I have a great equation with both Himesh and Shankar and whenever we have worked together, we have had a lot of fun through our music. I look forward to shaping the future of this season’s contestants.”

  • ZEE TV announces new season of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa

    ZEE TV announces new season of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa

    Mumbai: Zee TV is all set to launch the next edition of one of its longest-running TV shows Sa Re Ga Ma Pa. The channel has begun the online auditions for the music reality show, and roped in singers Himesh Reshammiya and Vishal Dadlani as the judges.

    The latest season promises to provide a sea of opportunities to the most aspiring singers across the nation, giving them a chance to exhibit their talent and create a name of their own in the world of music will be the popular singers of the industry, the channel said in a statement on Wednesday.

    Credited for launching some of the prominent singers in the industry including Shreya Ghoshal, Kunal Ganjawala, Kamal Khan, Amanat Ali, Raja Hassan, Sanjeevani and Bela Shende, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa first hit the airwaves in 1995.

    “I have been a part of various seasons but this time I’m looking forward to meeting some great, young talent to launch them successfully,” said Reshammiya. “I feel the biggest attraction of judging a reality show is getting to hear a fresh pool of raw talent. In fact, it gives me a chance to reinvent each time keeping their point of views in mind which also connects with music lovers across the globe.”

    “It always feels like I am coming back home,” said Dadlani. “This show has a long history of turning amateur musicians into popular and successful professionals, and I think that’s a legacy that everyone wants to be part of. I feel it’s always a revelation to see the very best talent from across the country and this season is all set to get bigger and better. My only request to the talent across India is to show some confidence and drop that missed call, so that we can bring you to the stage of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa.”

    Keeping in mind the concerns regarding the current COVID scenario, the show is offering people a chance to audition for the show online.

  • ‘Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Li’l Champs’ on Zee TV via dittoTV

    MUMBAI: Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, a singing talent hunt show, is back with a bang! Hugely popular over the last 22 years, the show is set to launch the sixth season of its sub series for kids on 25 February. Li’l Champ fans can watch the show live as it airs on their smartphones on Zee TV, available only on dittoTV.

    The latest season will witness the comeback of the musical duo – music composer-actor, Himesh Reshammiya, and the voice behind the hit songs from Jodhaa Akbar and Ghajini, Javed Ali, in the panel of judges. Also making her debut on the judges panel will be popular Indian singer, Neha Kakkar.

    Z5 India Business head of digital Archana Anand said, “Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Li’l Champs is one of India’s most awaited television shows, with a wide fan following. The show brings together the best untapped talent from across the country and gives them a platform to launch their careers as playback singers. We are excited to bring to our subscribers the 6th season of the kid’s reality show, where participants have been shortlisted from over 60,000 entries post a set of gruelling auditions. As it is a weekend show, many people may miss out on the live airing since they may be out or may not have easy access to a television set. dittoTV now makes it possible for them to conveniently watch Li’l Champs as it airs, anywhere on any internet-enabled device, and at an extremely affordable price point”

    Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Li’l Champs season 6 will be aired every Saturday and Sunday, at 9 pm.

    The dittoTV app is available on Android and iOS platforms, with a monthly subscription charge of INR 20.

  • Teraa Surroor- One man show

    Teraa Surroor- One man show

    Himesh Reshammiya counts mostly on his musical score to make his films and attract audience. His latest, Teraa Surroor, is described as a ‘Lethal love story’, Earlier titled Guns N Roses, the film is a sequel of his 2007 movie, AapKaaSurroor.

    In the earlier film, AapKaaSurroor, Himesh, a singer, is framed for a murder and jailed in Germany where he is for a music concert. If he does not prove his innocence in a day’s time, he loses his lady love. The only way he can do that is by breaking out of jail and finding the real culprit.

    This time, in Teraa Surroor, Himesh changes roles. His girlfriend, Farah Karimaee, is arrested in Ireland and it is up to Himesh to prove her innocence.

    Himesh is out partying and lures a dancer at the club to bed. Next, he walks into a hotel suite and shoots down a few drug dealers. Soon, like a good boy, he goes home and confesses to his girlfriend who he is slated to marry in a month’s time that he has strayed, that he slept with another woman!

    Farah sulks and does not want to have anything to do with Himesh. Despite her wedding being a month away, she decides to go on a singing assignment to Ireland to celebrate India Day on an invitation by a Facebook friend! Farah’s mother, Shernaz Patel, is fond of Himesh and wants the duo to talk over things and end their differences. But, Farah wants a break and proceeds to Ireland.

    When Farah lands in Ireland, she is asked to proceed to the hotel by her Facebook friend as he could not reach the airport to receive her. While she is on her way, her cab is surrounded by cops. She is found to be carrying contraband drugs. Arrested, she is tried and promptly sentenced to jail. When asked if she would like to inform anybody back home, she asks Himesh be informed. She also learns the hard way that the host country does not celebrate anything like India Day!

    Himesh is on mission now. He has to get his fiancée out of jail and find the culprit who planted the drugs on her. Farah’s lawyer, Monica Dogra, informs him that there is no way she can come out without completing her term. The only way to bring her out seems to be jailbreak. There are experts on just about everything and Himesh finds the expert on jailbreaks, Naseeruddin Shah, who has fled from various jails as many as 14 times!

    Meanwhile, Kabir Bedi, the police chief here, and Shekhar Kapur, the Indian Ambassador in Ireland, both old chums, are busy doing their bit.

    Shah makes up a plan to spring Farah out of jail and Himesh follows it to the T; Farah is out and the entire Irish police force is after them. Both make it safely to a port from where they would be helped to reach India. But, Himesh has a job to complete. He asks Farah to wait for him and returns to settle scores with the man who framed Farah.

    Teraa Surroor suffers from a patchy script. There are so many glitches and contradictions which are jarring. The director, Shawn Arrahna, concentrates more on scenic visuals and finesse rather than flaws in the content. Though he manages to keep the first part taut, the film meanders post interval. Not to deny that the attention to locations makes the film a visual delight. Though some of the songs are rehashed by Himesh from his earlier film, all six songs in the film are tuneful.

    Himesh has grown a six-pack and muscles and even bares given an opportunity. Otherwise, he carries a single look throughout. Guns speak louder than muscles in this film. Farah’s role is limited mainly to looking forlorn in a jail cell when not appearing in flashbacks in songs. Shekhar, Shah and Bedi just add some face value to the roaster, their roles being limited.

    Teraa Surroor has not had an expected opening response and its hope lies on the weekend.

    Producers: T Series, HR Musik.

    Director: Shawn Arranha.

    Cast: Himesh Reshammiya, Farah Karimaee, Shekhar Kapur, Naseeruddin Shah, Kabir Bedi, Monica Dogra, Shernaz Patel.

    Global Baba…One more baba!

    As the media started exposing the misdeeds of various babas with huge following, they found a new breed of followers, the filmmakers. The reason being, the exploits of these babas offer a filmmaker a fair bit of scope for comedies.

    Abhimnayu Singh is a sharpshooter killing his targets at whim. He is the henchman of a local woman politician because of which no cop dare to touch him. Now, police, led by Ravi Kishan, has arrested Singh. Kishan is leading him towards deep woods on the pretext of wanting a leak. The purpose is to kill him and make it look like an encounter. Singh knows he is trapped and, as a sort of last wish, wants to know who dared order his kill. He learns that his death has been ordered by the same woman politician he did all the dirty work for.

    Singh uses the same ploy of wanting to relieve himself and, in the process, tries to escape. But, the full police force is after him and he is shot in the back by Kishan. Singh falls into a rapid and assumed dead by the police. But, in Hindi films, whoever is shot and falls in to a river or sea, never dies.

    Singh emerges on the other side of the river where some aghori baba removes a bullet from his back with his bare hands. He was seemingly shot thrice but removing one bullet somehow brings him back to life. He has surfaced in some holy town on the banks of a holy river.

    On the run, Singh comes across one of his own taporis, PankajTripathi, who now poses as a maunee baba. He chose to be so because he had a problem with his speech. Tripathi sells a grand plan to Singh and that is to turn into a baba. There are all kind of babas so standing across a shop, Global Hair Cutting Saloon, the name is decided. Singh will become Global Baba with a feigned global following.

    Soon enough, GB has earned name, fame and an unprecedented following. You don’t see any global followers but the politicians of all hue and cry line up at his ashram, built on a grabbed land. Baba has become all powerful, blackmails politicians and even swings arms deals. Politicians seek his favours because he can create a communal riot on whim, can turn public opinion against any politician.

    No baba vs. politicians film is complete without a media person involved, better still if the person happens to be a female. So there is Sandeepa Dhar, a TV reporter working for the channel owned by home minister, Akhilendra Mishra, who plants her at the Singh’s ashram. Finally, Kishan realizes that Singh survived the bullets and has become Global Baba now.

    Just about everything in this film is routine, oft seen in this kind of films which springs up time and again. Here, what keeps the film alive to an extent is the thrill angle. Sadly, that interest factor is killed in the climax when the makers decide to keep the end open. May be it is an ambition of a sequel or make an intellectual point, this is lame. No justice for the villain, no dhishoomdhishoom; you know the villain so now go home. But, villain is known to the viewer from frame one!

    There is not much to say about technical aspects of the film. However, there are a few performances worth a mention. Of the cast, Tripathi excels. Singh manages to look appropriately sinister. Tripathi is very good. Kishan has little scope. Sandeepa is fair. Sanjay Mishra is wasted.

    Global Baba lacks face value to attract the audience.

    Producers: Vijay Bansal, Priya Bansal.

    Director: ManojSidheshwari Tiwari.

    Cast: Abhimanyu Singh, PankajTripathi, Ravi Kishan, SandeepaDhar, Akhilendra Mishra, Sanjay Mishra. 

  • Teraa Surroor- One man show

    Teraa Surroor- One man show

    Himesh Reshammiya counts mostly on his musical score to make his films and attract audience. His latest, Teraa Surroor, is described as a ‘Lethal love story’, Earlier titled Guns N Roses, the film is a sequel of his 2007 movie, AapKaaSurroor.

    In the earlier film, AapKaaSurroor, Himesh, a singer, is framed for a murder and jailed in Germany where he is for a music concert. If he does not prove his innocence in a day’s time, he loses his lady love. The only way he can do that is by breaking out of jail and finding the real culprit.

    This time, in Teraa Surroor, Himesh changes roles. His girlfriend, Farah Karimaee, is arrested in Ireland and it is up to Himesh to prove her innocence.

    Himesh is out partying and lures a dancer at the club to bed. Next, he walks into a hotel suite and shoots down a few drug dealers. Soon, like a good boy, he goes home and confesses to his girlfriend who he is slated to marry in a month’s time that he has strayed, that he slept with another woman!

    Farah sulks and does not want to have anything to do with Himesh. Despite her wedding being a month away, she decides to go on a singing assignment to Ireland to celebrate India Day on an invitation by a Facebook friend! Farah’s mother, Shernaz Patel, is fond of Himesh and wants the duo to talk over things and end their differences. But, Farah wants a break and proceeds to Ireland.

    When Farah lands in Ireland, she is asked to proceed to the hotel by her Facebook friend as he could not reach the airport to receive her. While she is on her way, her cab is surrounded by cops. She is found to be carrying contraband drugs. Arrested, she is tried and promptly sentenced to jail. When asked if she would like to inform anybody back home, she asks Himesh be informed. She also learns the hard way that the host country does not celebrate anything like India Day!

    Himesh is on mission now. He has to get his fiancée out of jail and find the culprit who planted the drugs on her. Farah’s lawyer, Monica Dogra, informs him that there is no way she can come out without completing her term. The only way to bring her out seems to be jailbreak. There are experts on just about everything and Himesh finds the expert on jailbreaks, Naseeruddin Shah, who has fled from various jails as many as 14 times!

    Meanwhile, Kabir Bedi, the police chief here, and Shekhar Kapur, the Indian Ambassador in Ireland, both old chums, are busy doing their bit.

    Shah makes up a plan to spring Farah out of jail and Himesh follows it to the T; Farah is out and the entire Irish police force is after them. Both make it safely to a port from where they would be helped to reach India. But, Himesh has a job to complete. He asks Farah to wait for him and returns to settle scores with the man who framed Farah.

    Teraa Surroor suffers from a patchy script. There are so many glitches and contradictions which are jarring. The director, Shawn Arrahna, concentrates more on scenic visuals and finesse rather than flaws in the content. Though he manages to keep the first part taut, the film meanders post interval. Not to deny that the attention to locations makes the film a visual delight. Though some of the songs are rehashed by Himesh from his earlier film, all six songs in the film are tuneful.

    Himesh has grown a six-pack and muscles and even bares given an opportunity. Otherwise, he carries a single look throughout. Guns speak louder than muscles in this film. Farah’s role is limited mainly to looking forlorn in a jail cell when not appearing in flashbacks in songs. Shekhar, Shah and Bedi just add some face value to the roaster, their roles being limited.

    Teraa Surroor has not had an expected opening response and its hope lies on the weekend.

    Producers: T Series, HR Musik.

    Director: Shawn Arranha.

    Cast: Himesh Reshammiya, Farah Karimaee, Shekhar Kapur, Naseeruddin Shah, Kabir Bedi, Monica Dogra, Shernaz Patel.

    Global Baba…One more baba!

    As the media started exposing the misdeeds of various babas with huge following, they found a new breed of followers, the filmmakers. The reason being, the exploits of these babas offer a filmmaker a fair bit of scope for comedies.

    Abhimnayu Singh is a sharpshooter killing his targets at whim. He is the henchman of a local woman politician because of which no cop dare to touch him. Now, police, led by Ravi Kishan, has arrested Singh. Kishan is leading him towards deep woods on the pretext of wanting a leak. The purpose is to kill him and make it look like an encounter. Singh knows he is trapped and, as a sort of last wish, wants to know who dared order his kill. He learns that his death has been ordered by the same woman politician he did all the dirty work for.

    Singh uses the same ploy of wanting to relieve himself and, in the process, tries to escape. But, the full police force is after him and he is shot in the back by Kishan. Singh falls into a rapid and assumed dead by the police. But, in Hindi films, whoever is shot and falls in to a river or sea, never dies.

    Singh emerges on the other side of the river where some aghori baba removes a bullet from his back with his bare hands. He was seemingly shot thrice but removing one bullet somehow brings him back to life. He has surfaced in some holy town on the banks of a holy river.

    On the run, Singh comes across one of his own taporis, PankajTripathi, who now poses as a maunee baba. He chose to be so because he had a problem with his speech. Tripathi sells a grand plan to Singh and that is to turn into a baba. There are all kind of babas so standing across a shop, Global Hair Cutting Saloon, the name is decided. Singh will become Global Baba with a feigned global following.

    Soon enough, GB has earned name, fame and an unprecedented following. You don’t see any global followers but the politicians of all hue and cry line up at his ashram, built on a grabbed land. Baba has become all powerful, blackmails politicians and even swings arms deals. Politicians seek his favours because he can create a communal riot on whim, can turn public opinion against any politician.

    No baba vs. politicians film is complete without a media person involved, better still if the person happens to be a female. So there is Sandeepa Dhar, a TV reporter working for the channel owned by home minister, Akhilendra Mishra, who plants her at the Singh’s ashram. Finally, Kishan realizes that Singh survived the bullets and has become Global Baba now.

    Just about everything in this film is routine, oft seen in this kind of films which springs up time and again. Here, what keeps the film alive to an extent is the thrill angle. Sadly, that interest factor is killed in the climax when the makers decide to keep the end open. May be it is an ambition of a sequel or make an intellectual point, this is lame. No justice for the villain, no dhishoomdhishoom; you know the villain so now go home. But, villain is known to the viewer from frame one!

    There is not much to say about technical aspects of the film. However, there are a few performances worth a mention. Of the cast, Tripathi excels. Singh manages to look appropriately sinister. Tripathi is very good. Kishan has little scope. Sandeepa is fair. Sanjay Mishra is wasted.

    Global Baba lacks face value to attract the audience.

    Producers: Vijay Bansal, Priya Bansal.

    Director: ManojSidheshwari Tiwari.

    Cast: Abhimanyu Singh, PankajTripathi, Ravi Kishan, SandeepaDhar, Akhilendra Mishra, Sanjay Mishra. 

  • &TV launches interactive Independence Day initiative

    &TV launches interactive Independence Day initiative

    MUMBAI: &TV has launched an initiative called ‘My Country My Voice My Anthem’ on Independence Day. 

     

    The initiative is aimed to bring together voices from across the country to sing the National Anthem, the video of which will air on the Independence Day special episode of The Voice India on 15 August. People can register on 09595681681 to participate and can be featured in the video.

     

    &TV will showcase the video #MyCountryMyVoiceMyAnthem on 15 August, which will be an ultimate amalgamation of voices and music as The Voice coaches – Shaan, Sunidhi Chauhan, Mika Singh and Himesh Reshammiya along with the contestants join in to revel in the celebration. 

     

    Chauhan said, “It’s a great initiative by &TV to give the fans a chance to show their love for the country. I am looking forward to the Anthem and I’m sure it will be soul stirring.”

     

    Shaan added, “We are all proud of our nation and while we celebrities have every chance to express our pride, this will be a one of its kind anthem where the people of the country come together as one Voice.”

     

    Reshammiya said, “I’m very happy about the initiative by &TV. We will get to hear the collective voice of the nation. For The Voice India to take lead in getting the junta together on the Independence Day is amazing!”

    Singh said, “Our National Anthem is a very powerful song. You just feel so proud about being an Indian when you hear it. And now the door of featuring in the video is open to the nation and its people.”