In an unforeseen and rather surprising turn of events, actor-politician Gajendra Chauhan extended his congratulations to Cannes winner Payal Kapadia. Kapadia, who studied at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) during Chauhan’s contentious tenure as its chairman, recently made history as the first Indian filmmaker to win the Grand Prix award at the 77th Cannes Film Festival for her Malayalam-Hindi feature film “All We Imagine As Light.”
The accolade, which is the second highest honor at Cannes, brings significant recognition to Kapadia’s work. What makes Chauhan’s congratulatory message surprising is the strained history between the two. Back in 2015, Kapadia was among the students who protested vehemently against Chauhan’s appointment as the chairperson of the Pune-based institute. The students argued that Chauhan’s credentials did not match the vision and stature of past chairpersons of the FTII governing council, claiming his appointment was “politically coloured.”
However, Chauhan, choosing to focus on the positive, expressed his pride in Kapadia’s achievement. “Congratulations to her. I feel proud that I was the chairman at the time when she was doing the course there,” Chauhan said. When questioned about Kapadia’s past objections to his appointment, Chauhan diplomatically replied, “She has never said anything about me. What can I say then?” Chauhan also reiterated that he had completed his tenure without being sacked or resigning.
In other developments from the entertainment industry, veteran actor Paresh Rawal announced an exciting new film project. Rawal took to social media to share news of his upcoming movie “The Taj Story,” set to begin shooting on July 20, 2024. Written and directed by Tushar Amrish Goel, the film promises to delve into the rich history and cultural significance of the iconic Taj Mahal. Rawal’s post, which included a poster image of the monument, has already generated significant buzz among his fans and film enthusiasts.
Meanwhile, actress Sonakshi Sinha has ventured into the business world, launching her line of press-on nails. Despite her natural flair for acting, Sinha admitted that the foray into entrepreneurship has been challenging.
. “Acting is second nature to me, and though I learned everything on the go, I never felt uncomfortable doing anything. Right now, entrepreneurship is new to me. I am again learning the ropes,” she said. Sinha’s entrepreneurial journey, though daunting, is progressing well as she continues to adapt and learn the intricacies of running a business.
Actor Sagarika Ghatge, alongside her husband and former cricketer Zaheer Khan, was recently spotted at a fashion event, endorsing an apparel brand inspired by the Kolhapuri royal tradition. Speaking at the event, Ghatge expressed her deep connection to the project, describing it as an “incredible journey” that felt like a tribute to her heritage. “It feels like a heartfelt tribute to our heritage; a way to honour the elegance and artistry of our family. Seeing the hand-painted designs come to life and resonate with modern women is immensely rewarding,” she said.
In another highlight from the entertainment industry, Rani Mukerji was awarded the Movified Best Actor Award in the female category for her role in the critically acclaimed film “Mrs Chatterjee Vs Norway.” Inspired by real events, the film portrays Mukerji as a mother battling the Norwegian legal system for the custody of her child. Expressing her gratitude, Mukerji thanked her director Ashima Chibber, her global fan base, and everyone who voted for her. “I share this award with all of you,” she said, highlighting the collective effort behind her success.
In a show of solidarity with Palestine, several prominent Indian celebrities, including Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Alia Bhatt, and Kareena Kapoor Khan, voiced their concerns following a devastating Israeli air strike on a Rafah camp that claimed 45 lives. Bhatt posted an Instagram story emphasizing the universal right to safety and peace for children and their mothers. Kapoor, recently appointed as UNICEF India’s national ambassador, reposted an image by the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund condemning the tragic events and calling for an immediate ceasefire and the release of all hostages.
This incident has spurred multiple actors and public figures to react, showcasing the Indian entertainment industry’s active engagement with global humanitarian issues. Overall, it has been a week filled with achievements, announcements, and advocacy, making headlines in both cinema and social causes.
