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Rekha at 70: Bollywood's Eternal Diva
Entertainment Desk
10 Oct 2024, 10:38
Photo: Getty Images
As Rekha turns 70, her legacy as one of Bollywood’s most enduring icons continues to captivate fans across generations. Known for her glamour, talent, and enigma, Rekha has blazed a trail for women in Indian cinema, cementing her place as a transformative figure in the industry.
Rekha, born Bhanurekha in Chennai in 1954, entered Bollywood in her teens, largely driven by her family’s financial struggles. Despite her lack of fluency in Hindi and a male-dominated industry, she rose to fame in the 1970s. She faced severe criticism early on, with body-shaming and harsh scrutiny of her appearance, but Rekha’s resilience and determination helped her break through.
Her transformation, both physical and professional, became legendary. Rekha became known for her candid interviews and fearless persona, defying societal norms of the time. She was unapologetically open about her relationships, which often placed her at the center of media scandals.
However, Rekha reinvented herself, mastering the art of makeup, fitness, and acting. Her performances in films like Ghar (1978), Khoobsurat (1980), and the iconic Umrao Jaan (1981) showcased her versatility and emotional depth, earning her critical acclaim and a National Award.
Though her personal life often overshadowed her career, including a brief and tragic marriage to businessman Mukesh Aggarwal, Rekha withdrew from public life, choosing to fiercely protect her privacy. This only added to the aura of mystery surrounding her, making her a beloved figure even today.
Despite making fewer public appearances, Rekha’s timeless appeal endures. Her grace and enigmatic presence have made her a true diva, and her influence on Indian cinema remains unmatched, with fans still cherishing every moment she shares with the world.
(Based on BBC Article)
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Koushani Takes the Internet by Storm with Item Song
Bengali actress Koushani Mukherjee continues to showcase her growing acting talent, impressing audiences with her versatility in various roles. This time, she has taken the internet by storm with her performance in an item song. Her captivating dance moves have mesmerized netizens.
On Wednesday (September 25), a song titled "Dakatia Banshi" was released on YouTube, featuring vocals by Sreshta Das, Nonichora Das Baul, and Boni Chakraborty.
The song is from the movie "Bahurupi" and marks Koushani's first-ever performance in an item song, which has left her audience thrilled.
In the music video, Koushani is seen wearing a red sari, with loose hair and kohl-lined eyes, radiating emotion. She is seen swaying her hips to the beat while dancing with a troupe at a rural fair.
Since its release, the song has garnered immense praise from netizens, who are not only impressed by Koushani's performance but also by the lyrics written by Anindya Bose and Nonichora Das Baul, which have resonated deeply with listeners.
In an interview with an Indian media outlet, Koushani mentioned that she had very little time to prepare for the performance. "I didn’t know I would have to dance. I only had about a week to prepare. I learned the entire routine during breaks in shooting, and the dance was shot in just eight hours. It wasn’t even a full day. But Nandita Di was confident, and she showcased Jhimli (Koushani) exactly as she had envisioned."
Bahurupi is set to release during the upcoming Durga Puja. Koushani is very optimistic about the success of "Dakatia Banshi" and expressed her hopes by saying, "I hope Dakatia Banshi goes viral and that everyone will be dancing to it at this year’s Puja festivities."
Reactions from Stars after Shakib Decides to Retire
Shakib Al Hasan, the biggest star of Bangladesh. He took the Bangladesh cricket team from decline to sublime. In his hands, the bat became a sheathed sword, and the ball became a missile. He is in a Royal position on the list of world cricketers. He is the best all-rounder in the world.
On Thursday (September 26) the message of the end of his cricket career was suddenly announced from Kanpur.
The world's best all-rounder announced his retirement from international T20 and Test cricket, which pained cricket lovers. The country's showbiz stars are also in that queue. During the conversation with RTV, some of the popular people in showbiz expressed their opinions about Shakib Al Hasan's decision to retire.
Zayed Khan
Shakib Al Hasan still has a lot to offer Bangladesh. I think his decision to retire was taken out of pride. The authorities should discuss this with him and bring him back.
Tama Mirza
I have already seen the news of Shakib Al Hasan's retirement. He has a good reputation not only in the country but also abroad. I always had an expectation for Shakib Al Hasan whenever Bangladesh played. When he batted or balled, there was excitement. If the Bangladesh cricket team won any match, he would have contributed there. Of course, now I will miss his game. Because he gave a lot to Bangladesh cricket. He is our pride. But if there were a few more days, maybe the Bangladesh cricket team would have got something better.
Emon
Shakib Al Hasan is undoubtedly the number one all-rounder in the world. I watched his every match for 15 years. In one word he was an iconic cricketer of Bangladesh. I will miss him. At the same time, you have to say goodbye. It is hard to accept but this is the truth, Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, Tamim Iqbal, and Mushfiqur Rahim are not playing. I feel very bad, I will not see my favorite cricketer play anymore. This is reality, nothing to do, just accept it.
Jamil Hossain
T20, Test or ODI, if he is in the team, the opposing team always reckons that Shakib Al Hasan is there. However, if Shakib Al Hasan retires on his own then we are losing a powerful cricketer from our Bangladesh cricket team. Every place is sometimes empty and filled again. But in Shakib's case, he was the one to fill his void.
Rashed Shimanto
I think Shakib Al Hasan could have stayed in T20 and Test cricket for quite some time. Maybe he has taken this decision early. His contribution to Bangladesh is huge. I would have been happy if he played a little longer. But I would say it's a good time for Shakib to retire.
Farin Khan
I think Shakib Al Hasan should not have taken such a sudden decision. If he made such a decision out of pain or emotion, I would say he is wrong. He should think more. Because he is a great asset to Bangladesh.
Harry Potter Actress Dame Maggie Smith Remembered as a 'Legend'
Tributes continue to pour in for Dame Maggie Smith, hailed as one of the greatest British actors, following her passing. Among those paying tribute is Dame Kristin Scott-Thomas, who starred alongside Dame Maggie in Gosford Park. She reflected on the late actress's dedication to her craft, stating, "She took acting very seriously but saw through the nonsense and razzmatazz. She really didn’t want to deal with that."
Dame Kristin also fondly remembered Dame Maggie’s sharp wit and sense of humor. "She had a sense of humour and wit that could reduce me to a blithering puddle of giggles. And she did not have patience with fools. So you had to be a bit careful. I absolutely adored her," she shared. Recalling their last meeting, Dame Kristin added, "The last time I saw her, she was very cross about being old. 'Maddening,' I think she said. Much loved, much admired, and irreplaceable."
The National Theatre, where Dame Maggie delivered many of her iconic stage performances, also released a statement honoring her illustrious career. "Her career spanned the theatrical, film, and television world without equal," the spokesperson said, adding, "She will forever be remembered as one of the greatest actors this country has had the inestimable pleasure of witnessing."
Bafta echoed these sentiments, describing Dame Maggie as a "legend of British stage and screen," reflecting the profound impact she had across multiple mediums.
Dame Maggie Smith’s career, which includes unforgettable roles in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie and Downton Abbey, leaves behind a legacy that will resonate with generations of actors and audiences alike.
Ranbir Kapoor Launches Lifestyle Brand ARKS on His 42nd Birthday
Bollywood superstar Ranbir Kapoor, who is celebrating his 42nd birthday on Saturday, has ventured into the space of fashion and lifestyle. The actor has launched his lifestyle brand ARKS, taking the plunge on his special day.
Ranbir features in a new ad for his brand, Alia reacts
In the clip, the actor lay on the grass at night looking at the stars. He then made a symbol in the air against the sky. The caption read, "Meet the founder. He's not on social media." Reacting to the clip, Ranbir's wife-actor Alia Bhatt posted fire emojis. His mother-actor Neetu Kapoor said, "Good luck." Sharing the post on her Instagram Stories, Alia wrote, "To new beginnings."
Fans try to find the meaning of ARKS
A fan said, "Congratulations, very good name and logo. Keep it up." Others speculated what could the brand be about. "ARKS MEANS ALIA RAHA RANBIR KAPOOR & Sons and a boat built by Noah to save his family," read a comment. "A RANBIR KAPOOR SNEAKERS -ARKS," read another comment. An Instagram user said, "Looks like a scene from Brahmastra…lol."
Neetu has a special post for her son
Neetu Kapoor also shared the video on Instagram. She wrote, "Son, brother, husband, father and now founder." She added, "Happy birthday Ranbir, hope the birth of ARKS makes this one even more special. Can't wait to see your journey unfold. My blessings and pyaar (love)." Sharing the post on her Instagram Stories, Neetu also wrote, "Happy birthday Ranbir! And happy first day ARKS!"
Arjun and Karan drop hints
Arjun Kapoor shared the video on his Instagram and wrote, "I guess it was always meant to be...Starting something you have spoken about for years at this point in your life feels about right... May your minimalism now be enjoyed by your fans and all fashion connoisseurs... Happy Birthday (my fashion icon)."
Karan Johar said, "You have seen the movie star magic and the actor excellence...now enter the world of Ranbir's lifestyle aesthetics...stay tuned and watch this place for more ARKS."
About Ranbir's films
Fans will see Ranbir in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Love And War, along with Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal. He was last in Animal alongside Triptii Dimri and Rashmika Mandanna. The action drama film was directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga. The actor also has the sequel of Animal, titled Animal Park.
Aishwarya Rai Stuns in Red at 'Paris Fashion Week'
Paris Fashion Week wouldn't be complete without the incomparable Aishwarya Rai Bachchan gracing the runway. The veteran actress and long-time L'Oreal brand ambassador once again stole the show, showcasing her timeless elegance and poise.
Aishwarya dazzled in a custom red Mossi outfit, exuding confidence and sophistication as she sashayed down the catwalk. Her signature pose – a flying kiss – left the audience enchanted, while her gracious Namaste at the end of the ramp walk earned applause.
As part of the L'Oreal Paris show "Walk Your Worth," Aishwarya presented a stunning creation from the Women Ready-to-wear Spring-Summer 2025 collection at the iconic Palais Garnier opera house. L'Oreal Paris shared glimpses of Aishwarya's ramp walk on Instagram and wrote, "Step into a world of regal beauty with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. Her look was a mesmerizing blend of tradition and modernity, embodying worth and elegance at every step."
Fans could not contain their excitement seeing Aishwarya rocking the ramp. They wrote sweet messages for Aishwarya in the post's comments section. One person wrote, "The best Face of Loreal," another person wrote, "This lady wins everything with just her presence. Bringing Panche and Elan to Paris. You're worth it Ma'am," yet another person wrote, "OMG she's 50+, Hard to believe."
Aishwarya's Paris Fashion Week appearance was a statement-making moment, both on and off the runway. Sporting her wedding ring, she subtly quashed divorce rumors surrounding her marriage to Abhishek Bachchan, reaffirming their enduring bond.
Aishwarya was also termed humble by netizens as she sweetly held an excited fan’s hands as he brought her a gift. The actor was seen getting ready for her ramp walk as the person approached her and was overcome with emotion.
The Paris Fashion Week outing was a family affair for Aishwarya as her daughter Aaradhya Bachchan, tagged along to Paris, enjoying the glamour and excitement of the fashion capital. Aaradhya was seen accompanying her mother as she prepped for the big night.
Aishwarya's runway appearance was complemented by Alia Bhatt's debut at Paris Fashion Week, marking a significant milestone in the younger actress's career. The L'Oreal show also featured Jane Fonda, Eva Longoria, Kendall Jenner, and Cara Delevigne among others.
On the work front, Aishwarya continues to soar, having recently received the Best Actress award at the South Indian International Movie Awards (SIIMA) for her remarkable performance in Mani Ratnam's Ponniyin Selvan 2. In her acceptance speech, Aishwarya said, "Thank you so very much, SIMA, for honoring me with this award. It means the world to me because Ponniyin Selvan was a movie so close to my heart. Directed by my mentor Mani Ratnam, this award recognizes not just my work as Nandini but the efforts of the entire team."
Source: TIE
Zakia Bari Momo in 'Remand'
Zakia Bari Momo, the star known as 'Lux Channel I Superstar', entered showbiz in 2007 with the movie 'Daruchini Dwip'. Apart from acting, this actress is often seen in various social functions. The National Film Award-winning actress was also active in the anti-discrimination student movement and ongoing flood crisis.
On the other hand, although she is very good at dancing and acting, she is not much available for singing. But recently she published the Rabindra Sangeet 'Tomar Khola Hawa'. The song is composed by Ahmed Razeeb.
After a break, Momo returned to acting. Recently, she joined a new drama serial titled 'Remand'. This actress will be seen in the role of a DB police. The main theme of the story- Current Politics. This 'Political Drama' is written and directed by Ashfaqur Rahman.
Regarding the drama, Momo said, "The story of the series revolves around politics. In the meantime, we have been shooting for quite some time. I hope that everyone will like the drama when it comes out."
Meanwhile, a private television has started broadcasting a new serial 'Nil Ghurni' starring Momo. Ziaul Faruq Apurba acted opposite her in it. The drama was directed by Syed Shakil. The actress has also completed a movie titled 'Master'.
IIFA 2024 List of Winners: SRK, Rani Bag Best Actors, Animal Wins Big
The second day of the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) 2024 took place in Abu Dhabi, bringing together the biggest stars from the Hindi film industry. They included celebrities such as Hema Malini, Rekha, Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, Anil Kapoor, Bobby Deol, Vicky Kaushal, Shahid Kapoor, and Kriti Sanon, among many others.
IIFA day two
At the event, Shah Rukh enthralled the audience with his hosting. He, along with his co-hosts Vicky Kaushal and Karan Johar, shook their legs to his hit song Jhoome Jo Pathaan. The highlight of the night was the announcement of the winners.
Check the full list of winners here:
Best Film - Animal by Sandeep Reddy Vanga
Best Actor - Shah Rukh Khan, Jawan
Best Actress - Rani Mukerji, Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway
Best Director - Vidhu Vinod Chopra, 12th Fail
Best Supporting Actor - Anil Kapoor, Animal
Best Supporting Actress - Shabana Azmi, Rocky Rani
Best Actor in Negative Role - Bobby Deol, Animal
Best Story - Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani
Best Story (Adapted) - 12th Fail
Best Music - Animal
Best Lyrics - Siddharth-Garima, Satranga, Animal
Best Singer Male - Bhupinder Babbal, Arjan Valley, Animal
Best Singer Female - Shilpa Rao, Chaleya
Outstanding Contribution to Indian Cinema - Jayantilal Gada, Hema Malini
Achievement on completing 25 years in cinema - Karan Johar
Shah Rukh on receiving the award
In his acceptance speech, Shah Rukh said, "I want to thank all other nominees -- Ranveer Singh, Ranbir Kapoor, Vikrant Massey -- he was great in the film -- Vicky Kaushal, Sunny Paji. I think all of them were great, but I got an edge because people were happy that I worked after so long."
He also added, "Somebody reminded me that money needs to be put into a film. So I want to thank Gauri. She may be the only wife who's spending more on the husband than the other way around. We were going through a tough time while making Jawan (referring to the Aryan Khan case)."
About IIFA 2024
The three-day celebration kicked off on September 27 with IIFA Utsavam, an event dedicated to the southern film industries--Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada.
On the second day, Shah Rukh, Karan, Rekha, Ananya Panday, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vicky Kaushal also attended the event. IIFA 2024 will conclude on September 29 with the exclusive, invitation-only IIFA Rocks. Artists such as Honey Singh, Shilpa Rao, and Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy will perform live for the audience.
Source: HT
