The sacred city of Ayodhya was recently graced with a shimmering constellation of stars from both the Hindi and southern film industries as they gathered to attend the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Temple – a significant religious event marking the consecration of Lord Ram’s abode. Among the revered attendees were legendary figures such as Amitabh Bachchan and Rajinikanth, cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar, Bollywood favorites Alia Bhatt with Ranbir Kapoor, the charming duo Vicky Kaushal alongside Katrina Kaif, and acclaimed directors Rohit Shetty and Subhash Ghai. This was certainly a spectacle where divinity met stardom, painting Ayodhya in hues of reverence and glamour.
The elite roster extended with the presence of Vivek Oberoi, Sonu Nigam, Anuradha Paudwal, Madhur Bhandarkar, and Kangana Ranaut, each imparting their own charisma to the already radiant ceremony. Musical savants like Sonu Nigam and Shankar Mahadevan uplifted the event with their enthralling performances, turning the religious ceremony into a cultural extravaganza.
Particularly enthused was actress Kangana Ranaut, who seemed deeply immersed in the ceremonial chants. Her devotion found its way to social media where she expressed her reverence, citing Ayodhya as the birthplace of the revered deity and echoing the celebratory call – “Jai Shri Ram”.
While the stars dazzled in Ayodhya, actor Manoj Bajpayee was ready to shine on a global stage. His newest feature, ‘The Fable’, directed by the visionary Raam Reddy, is set to make its world premiere at the 74th Berlin International Film Festival. Competing in the Encounters category, the film boasts a rich cast including Deepak Dobriyal, Priyanka Bose, and Tillotama Shome, with fresh talents like Hiral Sidhu and child prodigy Awan Pookot. The Berlinale, kicking off on February 15, will unveil ‘The Fable’ on its opening evening. Bajpayee conveys his pride, interpreting the selection as a testament to the global resonance and the finesse of India’s storytelling prowess.
In an intimate revelation on social media, actress Kajol shared a glimpse into the attributes she finds most enticing – her intellect, resilience, and bravery. With a statement encouraging strength and beauty, she captured the admiration of her fans who were quick to commend not just her virtues, but her infectious laughter as well. Looking ahead, Kajol is set to grace the screens in upcoming films such as ‘Sarzameen’, ‘Do Patti’, and ‘Maa’.
Staying attuned to contemporary viewing preferences, Vicky Kaushal’s ‘Sam Bahadur’ is slated to be available for streaming on ZEE5, honorably timed with India’s 75th Republic Day on January 26. Helmed by Meghna Gulzar, this war biopic delves into the life and legacy of Sam Manekshaw, charting his remarkable ascent from the Chief of Army Staff to his memorable retirement, dotted with pivotal moments and glorious achievements.
In the landscape of endurance and sport, actress Nikita Dutta embraced the challenge of the Mumbai Marathon, clocking over 150 minutes in her run across 21 kilometers. She celebrates the event as both a test of fitness and a personal voyage echoed by the spirited ambiance of the city.
Meanwhile, actor Saif Ali Khan submitted to surgical procedures for a previous injury exacerbated on-set during an action sequence for ‘Devara’. Khan received treatment at Mumbai’s Kokilaben Hospital and is sanguine about his recuperation, appreciative of the skilled medical team and well-wishers’ support.
Joy also found its way to actor Mahesh Babu as he took to social media to extend heartful birthday wishes to his wife, former actress Namrata Shirodkar. Echoed by their daughter Sitara Ghattamaneni’s own endearing tribute, the family celebrated another year of togetherness and love, signifying warmth and continuity amidst the industry’s hustle.
Thus, it’s a tableau of varied experiences within the film fraternity: from spiritual participation in Ayodhya’s pious celebration to international premieres, new releases, personal achievements, and moments of familial affection—all marking another soul-stirring week in India’s entertainment arena.
