Actress Debasree Roy is poised for a remarkable OTT debut

The anticipation and excitement surrounding her digital foray are palpable, as she steps into the character of Sucharita Lahiri in director Sourav Chakraborty's upcoming project, "Chemistry Mashi”, scheduled to release this February.Debasree Roy, a luminary in the world of cinema, has left an indelible mark with her stellar performances over the years. Now, after a long break, and with the changing landscape of entertainment and the surge of digital platforms, the popular Kolkatar Roshogolla actress is embracing a new chapter in her illustrious career. Under the banner of hoichoi, and the creative guidance of director Sourav Chakraborty, "Chemistry Mashi" promises to be a unique narrative in the web space, with Debasree Roy bringing the character of Sucharita Lahiri to life.
A woman in her late fifties, Sucharita Lahiri finds herself at a crossroads in life. Despite thirty years of marriage to a bureaucrat and raising successful children, a conflict within her family prompts her to question her own identity and dignity. Deciding to carve her own path, Sucharita revives her passion for chemistry through an engaging online channel, "Chemistry Mashi," where she teaches Class 11 and 12 syllabus in a unique and relatable manner. Her popularity gets increased to such a state where she starts teaching students for entrance examination. However, her popularity takes a dark turn when one of her suggested question papers coincidentally matches an exam, triggering accusations of a question paper leak. As the series progress, amidst all of this, her family equations also keep changing.
“Chemistry Mashi” becomes a gripping narrative of resilience, integrity, and the fight against corruption as Sucharita stands up against powerful forces to prove her innocence and unveil a systemic conspiracy.
Veteran actress Debasree Roy shared her excitement, saying “At first, stepping back in front of the camera after a long hiatus feels like a breath of fresh air. However, this time, the medium has changed—it's on OTT instead of movie theatres. Moreover, it's a new venture for me, leading to a mix of excitement and nervous anticipation. Working with the entire team of hoichoi and Sourav As a director, has been an amazing experience.” Sharing his experience, Director Sourav Chakraborty commented, "Chemistry Mashi” in essence, narrates the collective story of mothers who have devoted their lives to household duties, particularly those spent tirelessly in the kitchen. Sucharita Lahiri, portrayed by the talented Debasree Roy, epitomises one such mother. One day, she resolves to break away from the routine she has followed for the past thirty years. However, this decision triggers significant changes and presents numerous challenges in her life. This is the central theme explored in Chemistry Mashi. Reflecting on my filming experience, collaborating with Debasree Roy has been nothing short of a lifetime journey, and hoichoi has evolved into a comforting home for me. Returning to it always brings a sense of warmth and familiarity."
About hoichoi:
hoichoi is the leading Bengali Entertainment Platform with over 2,000+ hours of Movies, 100+ Original Series, Films, Shorts, Docu-Series, and more. hoichoi aims to take the best of Bengali content globally and connect the 250+ million Bengalis residing worldwide to their roots. The OTT Player has many features, to name a few, Offline Download, AD free Seamless Viewing Experience, unlimited HD Video Streaming, Bilingual Interface (English & Bengali), Multi-Device Capability, Progressive Web App, Parental Control, Hindi-Dubbed Originals and English Subtitles.
Users can enjoy their favourite Bengali Content on the hoichoi App by downloading it from the Play Store and the Apple App Store, to watch on their Mobile Phones, or on the Desktop/Laptop through www.hoichoi.tv or on Television through Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, Mi LED TV, LG SMART TV, Samsung TV, Roku and the recently added, Google TV.
Founded in 2017, hoichoi is the maiden venture of SVF under its new media section and is headed by Co-Founder Vishnu Mohta who is also the Executive Director of SVF.

South African Singer Shashika Mooruth, elated with the response of her Hindi song Kaali Ma in‘Salaar'

The widely discussed 'The Kaali Maa’ sequence in the Prabhas & Prithviraj – starrer film ‘Salaar: Part 1- Ceasefire’, has stirred a huge buzz within the industry and on social media. Viewers have actively shared their reactions particularly the spine-tingling build-up to the action, contributing to the overall thrill surrounding the film.
Following the recent unveiling of the complete music jukebox by the ‘Homebale Films’, netizens are appreciating the background score and songs by composer Ravi Basrur. Specially the voice behind the track ‘Kaali Maa’ piqued a lot of interest among netizens. South African singer Shashika Mooruth who has sung the Hindi song titled ‘Kaali Maa’ in ‘Salaar: Part 1- Ceasefire’, is elated not only by the phenomenal worldwide success of the film, but the recent release of the hindi songs from the album have struck a chord with the audiences worldwide.The hindi track Kaali Maa is written by lyricist Riya Mukherjee and the composer Ravi Basrur did justice in searching for voices that match the theme and background for the action leading to the gripping sequences that follow thereafter. The song is not only being received well by the masses but takes the audience straight to the heart of the narrative, the element of the film.
On being asked about the song, singer Shashika Mooruth said, “I feel honored and grateful at the same time to Ravi Basrur for considering me to sing this beautiful and emotional song. He is truly a remarkable composer and humble human being. Working with him has been a creatively enriching experience. The lyrics in Hindi and Marwari express the tribal women’s emotional appeal to Kaali Maa, so I loved the challenge of doing different things with my voice to bring the emotion required for the scene.” This track is a testament that music transcends language barriers, along with the Telugu album, the Hindi album is also trending and soaking in all the recent success.
Shashika Mooruth is an indie artist who mostly sings Krishna Bhajan and has her own music label called ‘Urja Music’ that has achieved accolades all over the world. In 2018 her album ‘Krishna, The Flute Player’ was at no.14 on US Billboard Charts. She also received the International Achiever Award from South African President Honorable Cyril Ramaphosa in 2018 at the South African Music Awards which is one of the highest awards.

Urvashi Rautela looks electrifying as she bedazzled in edgy metallic blue outfit

Bollywood beauty Urvashi Rautela, famed for her sophisticated charm and adaptable acting, made her spectacular entry onto the world fashion scene as the glitzy event came to life. The diva keeps her fans amazed by adding a personal touch to whatever she chooses to wear. May it be the elaborate lehengas, mini dresses, or floor-sweeping gowns, Urvashi's wardrobe choices are top-notch.
Urvashi's choice of attire for her day out was nothing short of glamorous. The blue metallic bodycon dress perfectly complemented her svelte figure, showcasing her toned curves in a stylish and sophisticated manner. Urvaashi opted for a gorgeous blue metallic full-sleeved body-hugging dress with a turtle neck. The full sleeves added a touch of elegance to the ensemble, making it suitable for various occasions.
Keeping her beauty look minimal yet captivating, Urvashi opted for open tresses that gracefully framed her face. The loose waves added a touch of effortless glamour, enhancing the overall appeal of her ensemble. To add more drama to her entire look she wore black leather boots, along with studded danglers to complement her look. Her makeup included well-contoured cheeks and pink lip tint. To protect her eyes she rounded off her look with black shades.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C2CFjP5OybO/

Undoubtedly, Urvashi Rautela looked breathtakingly gorgeous as she was spotted around the city, she happily posed for the paparazzi. Urvashi's glamorous ensemble is undoubtedly an inspiration for fashion enthusiasts looking to make a statement at parties and events. If you're looking to turn heads and make a lasting impression, Urvashi Rautela's latest look is a definite source of inspiration.

2nd Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan award to honour Ustad Zakir Hussain

The esteemed legacy of the Padma Vibhushan Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan lives on as his family and students announce the second edition of the prestigious Padma Vibhushan Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan Award. This event, marking the legendary musician’s third death anniversary, is scheduled to take place over two days - 16th and 17th January 2024. This year, the award will be conferred upon the legendary musician Padma Vibhushan Ustad Zakir Hussain at a ceremony on the 17th of January at Shanmukhananda Hall in Sion, Mumbai. The award will be presented by Ustad ji’s wife Amina Ghulam Mustafa Khan. Following the award ceremony, Padma Shri Sonu Nigam, Khan Saab’s ‘shaagird’, will pay homage to the late maestro in a concert titled ‘Haazri’. Additionally, the inaugural day of the event, i.e. 16th of January, will feature Hindustani Classical performances - Flute recital by Rakesh Chaurasia, Sitar recital by Purbayan Chatterjee and vocals by Pandit Venkatesh Kumar at the Kashinath Ghanekar Natyagruha in Thane, adding an extra layer of cultural richness to the celebration.
Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan, an unmatched doyen of Hindustani Classical Music, left an indelible mark on the world of music and his legacy continues to be celebrated through this award. The award stands as a testament to the legacy of this musical giant, honouring those who, like him, have made exceptional contributions to the world of Indian Classical Music. In its debut edition last year, the Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan Award was presented to the flute maestro Pandit Hari Prasad Chaurasia, in recognition of his exceptional contribution to Indian Classical Music.
The Tabla maestro *Ustad Zakir Hussain* avers, “This award holds a very special place in my heart.” He continues, “I feel Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan is one of the great unsung heroes of Indian Classical Music. Over the many decades that he has sung, I would say, he has not gained the recognition and accolades that he truly deserved. His passing away has made a void in the transmission of the tradition of the Indian Classical Music - Khayal Gayaki. Nevertheless, I am happy that his legacy lives on through his sons and grandson who are teaching, singing and promoting Indian Classical Music. I hope the tradition of the Rampur Sahaswan Gharana continues to live on. Aur hum sab par Khan Saab ki jo chaap hamesha se lagi hui hai woh lagi rahe.”
Padma Vibhushan Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan, a torchbearer of the Rampur Sahaswan Gharana, was a luminary in the world of classical music. He not only received numerous awards and accolades but also played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of several renowned Bollywood singers such as Asha Bhosle, A.R. Rahman, Hariharan, Sonu Nigam, Shaan, Shilpa Rao, his sons and grandsons, among others. Additionally, Lata Mangeshkar had mentioned that she took guidance from Khan Saab whenever she needed it.
Speaking about ‘Haazri’, the tribute to his Guru, *Sonu Nigam* imparts, “I will do what I am known for. Every artiste should do what his/her core strength is. Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan Sahab was an authority in Classical Music but he never ever told his students to quit their music and move to Classical Music. I have in the past performed in front of him and I remember how memorable it was! It is going to be a tribute from a son to his father.” Will he be presenting personal pieces that Khan Saab taught him? “Not necessarily. What he has taught me, and is still teaching me vicariously through his sons, is something very personal. It's like I would want the audience to have the feast and not the ingredients,” the accomplished singer-performer adds.
Khan Saab’s son *Rabbani Mustafa Khan* shares, “We take immense pride in presenting the award to Zakir Bhai this year. In addition to my brother Sonu Nigam’s performance, we have incorporated classical renditions by ace Hindustani Classical artistes this year. It is our steadfast duty to champion Hindustani Classical Music and this is a steady step in that direction. We aim to include more cities in our endeavour next year.”
Ahead of his classical tribute in Thane, ace flautist *Rakesh Chaurasia*, also Flute maestro Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia’s nephew, expresses, “When I think of Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khansaheb, what strikes me most is the number of celebrity singers he has mentored. A. R. Rahman ji, Sonu Nigam ji, Hariharan ji, and many others consider Khansaheb to be a Guru. In fact, even Lata didi had mentioned receiving musical guidance from him. What can I say about such a colossal personality? I feel blessed to have experienced his music, and to have received his blessings each time our paths crossed.”
Master exponents of Hindustani Classical Music Purbayan Chatterjee and Pandit Venkatesh Kumar eagerly anticipate the forthcoming tribute. *Purbayan Chatterjee* informs us that he will be choosing an evening ‘raaga’ because it is an evening concert. However, as is customary with Indian Classical exponents, he will choose the ‘raaga’ on the spot, depending on his mood. Nevertheless, he shares, “Rabbani ji (Rabbani Mustafa Khan) has been kind enough to send me some of Ustad ji’s precious recordings. I am very inspired by those, especially Bageshree. I’ll try to learn and play one of these compositions to pay a fitting tribute to this great legend.” “I am delighted that I have been given the opportunity to pay a musical tribute to Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan on his barsi. I look forward to people joining us in order to foster Hindustani Classical Music in this contemporary era,” concludes *Pandit Venkatesh Kumar*.The event is presented by NR Talent and Event Management.

Why Kanchi Singh didn’t take up work after YRKKH

After being part of Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, actress Kanchi Singh did not take up a show. She says that she wanted to try her luck in films, and is waiting for her big break. “Honestly, I was trying for films. Every actor, after a point, wants to come into Bollywood. I am still trying; my try is on; my work on it is on. Let's see when it clicks,” she says.The actress adds that she loves being in the TV industry as well and accepts that it has evolved. “It has progressed, and I think a lot of TV actors are getting the opportunity to work in films. Nepotism, I feel, has decreased to a good level. There are so many actors like Mrunal Thakur and Shehnaaz Gill. All of these actors are doing so well in life. They have been faces, and now they are part of Bollywood. They are all inspirations for all of us,” she says.
She adds, “If given a chance, I wouldn't want to leave television. If given a chance, I would definitely do a show or say a lead on TV. I think today there are a lot more TV actors who have a huge fan following than Bollywood actors, and TV actors are doing really well. There are so many of them who are doing so well, better than Bollywood actors. They have become the faces of the house.” Talking about her future plans, she says, “Definitely get into Bollywood or do a lead on a television show. Let's see whatever God has written to me. I believe in destiny a lot, so wherever my destiny takes me, I'll be there.”

Rebel Star Prabhas to star in and as ‘The Raja Saab’, A King-Sized entertainer directed by Maruthi

Following the triumph of 'Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire,' global sensation Prabhas, acclaimed as The Rebel Star, announces his next 'The Raja Saab,' a spellbinding romantic horror entertainer by the much-loved director Maruthi under the People Media Factory banner. A Pan-India film with an illustrious cast, the cinematic spectacle will be released in Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, Telugu, and Hindi. Produced by TG Vishwa Prasad, with co-producer Vivek Kuchibotla, 'The Raja Saab' promises to be an out-and-out entertainer presenting Prabhas in a ‘Massy’ look in the film.
The film’s music is being orchestrated by National Award-winning music composer, Thaman S who is regarded as one of the most prominent and gifted musical talents in Telugu and Tamil cinema. He’s best known for his work in the 2020 musical hit ‘Ala Vaikuntapuramulo’ and the viral ‘Hungy Cheetah’ song from ‘OG’ in addition to more.
Known as one of the most accomplished and celebrated filmmakers in Telugu cinema, Maruthi is credited for superhits like family entertainer ‘Prati Roju Pandage’, first ever Telugu horror comedy ‘Prema Katha Chitram’, and romantic comedy ‘Mahanubhavudu’ amongst many others. Ecstatic about the upcoming romantic horror entertainer and joining forces with Prabhas, Director Maruthi said, “‘The Raja Saab’ stands as one of my most ambitious projects to date. Collaborating with Prabhas and People Media Factory is both an honour and exciting for me as a filmmaker. We are geared up to offer our audiences a grand horror experience. Having Prabhas on board is particularly special as his electrifying screen presence infused with our horror narrative is surely to leave audiences amazed.”
Film’s Producer TG Vishwa Prasad, a leading name in the Telugu industry who’s known for backing superhit commercial potboilers like ‘Karthikeya 2’ and ‘Dhamaka’ added to the same stating, “We are thrilled to have Prabhas on board for our upcoming romantic horror entertainer ‘The Raja Saab.’ He’s truly a Pan-India star who’s loved by audiences for his brilliant range as an actor and we truly believe he’s best suited for the role. Audiences can expect to see him in a massy and vintage look that they have long yearned for. With Maruthi’s filmmaking brilliance, we are truly looking forward to beginning this journey.”
Director Maruthi, confirming the romantic horror entertainer, announced on social media that ‘The Raja Saab’ is Prabhas’ special Pongal treat for fans worldwide. With stalwarts like Thaman S as Music Director and Mr Maruthi as the captain of the ship, ‘The Raja Saab’ is touted to be a king-sized romantic horror entertainer.The film’s cinematography is led by Karthik Palani (Varisu), and VFX is led by Kamal Kannan (Magadheera, Baahubali )both are renowned for their works in big-budget blockbuster films.Written and Directed by Maruthi, and Produced by TG Vishwa Prasad under People Media Factory, ‘The Raja Saab’ is anticipated to transcend linguistic and genre boundaries.