Shweta Tripathi returns to theatre with husband Cheeta in External Affairs
3:55 PM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; May 29, 2026)
After years away from acting on stage, actor-producer Shweta Tripathi is returning to theatre with External Affairs, where she will be seen alongside her husband, actor-rapper Chaitnya Sharma. For the actress, the comeback is also a return to the medium that shaped both her artistic journey and personal life.
Shweta says, “It is very exciting. I continue performing poetry and doing live performances, but I haven’t done a play in a very long time. What excites me is that, as actors, we have to remain present not just for a few moments but throughout an 80-minute performance. These days, we are living in a world of information overload, endless consumption and constant entertainment. Theatre is very different from acting before the camera because there will be people in your eyeline, someone may be restless, someone may cough, someone may be distracted and, hopefully, everyone will be enjoying the performance. All of that continues while you are acting. The joy of theatre is that every show is different, every audience is different, and I am looking forward to that journey.”
The actress credits theatre for inspiring her acting journey and giving her some of life’s most meaningful moments. It was also through theatre that she first met her now husband, Cheeta, while working on a play directed by Akarsh Khurana. Interestingly, her return to the stage comes with External Affairs, directed by Akarsh’s brother, Adhaar Khurana.
She says, “I became an actor because of what I saw on stage and how it made me feel. Watching theatre inspired me and made me want to create that same magic and connection with an audience. I have continued producing plays because I always wanted to stay associated with theatre in some way. Stage ne professionally toh diya hi hai, but it has also given me my most favourite human, Cheeta. So, there has always been a special place in my heart for theatre.”
Speaking about joining External Affairs, which has previously been staged with another cast, Shweta says, “External Affairs is beautifully written, and my character, a semi-famous influencer, is very different from who I am. I haven’t played someone like this before, and every character helps you discover different parts of yourself. Through this, we also keep expanding as actors.”
She adds, “There was a cast before us and they did a fabulous job. I have seen the play and, as an actor, what works for me is collecting emotions, memories and observations and bringing them into the character. It also works the other way because it is not necessary that your character thinks like you. Both the actor and the character keep changing each other.”
Micro-dramas are a big hit with TV writers, too
3:16 PM
Higher content volumes, faster payments key triggers driving writers to explore the trend
Rajesh N Naidu (THE ECONOMIC TIMES; May 29, 2026)
Mumbai: The micro-drama sector is increasingly emerging as a new avenue for experienced television writers in India, as the TV industry grapples with shrinking audiences and rising competition from other entertainment platforms.
The trend is being driven by a mix of higher content volumes, faster payments, greater creative freedom, flexibility to write around commercial breaks, opportunities to explore diverse subjects, lower time commitments and the ability to work remotely, writers, producers and senior executives at micro-drama platforms told ET.
According to estimates by senior executives at micro-drama apps, a micro-drama app in India produces 50-200 hours of content a month, depending on its scale.
At present, there are 40-45 micro-drama apps available for download in India. This shows the volume of micro-drama content being produced in India.
Generally, key people at micro-drama apps collaborate with production houses to create content. “The micro-drama ecosystem has opened up genuine opportunities for creative professionals, including writers. Most of these professionals previously had a TV background,” said Saurabh Pandey, founder and chief executive of Story TV, a micro-drama streaming app.
The low entry barrier is a key reason why experienced TV writers, and even inexperienced writers, are entering the micro-drama space, writers said.
“The micro-drama space is quite democratised. There is so much micro-drama content being created today. In my long experience as a writer, for the first time I am seeing such a high demand for writers,” observed veteran television writer Sanjay Bhatia, who wrote the crime television series Encounter and recently ventured into the micro-drama space.
On the lower side, micro-drama writer fees generally range between Rs25,000 and Rs1 lakh per series, senior executives at micro-drama apps said. On the higher side, fees may go up to Rs3–4 lakh per series depending upon a platform and its scale of operation.
Lower time commitment compared with TV and demand for diverse subjects are among key factors that triggered high interest among writers.
“Unlike TV, where TRPs define content preference, in micro-drama, a writer can work on diverse subjects. On average, a micro-drama series is made in 10-15 days, which gives high scope for writers to experiment,” said Shakeb Sayed, a veteran television writer associated with serials such as Saraswatichandra. “Today, a lot of first-time writers are coming into the micro-drama space. In fact, there is a shortage of writers and other creative professionals in the micro-drama space.”
Remote working and faster payments have added to the attractiveness of the segment, writers said.
“Micro-drama has decentralized the way writers work. Today, a writer can be in Indore and write a micro-drama series and earn money. Also, payment is faster in this segment. Unlike TV (45 days), micro-drama writers receive payment in a month or less,” said a writer requesting anonymity.
According to producers, TV experience has helped these writers do well in this space.
"Micro-dramas are creating a major opportunity for fast writers and young creators because the format rewards speed, relatability, storytelling agility, constant cliffhangers, and the ability to keep audiences engaged every 60 seconds," said Suniel Wadhwa, cofounder and director of film production and distribution company Karmic Films, adding: “Experienced TV writers pull these things off well.”
Anushka Sharma acquires minor stake in footwear and apparel brand Agilitas Sports
3:14 PM
Ratna Bhushan (THE ECONOMIC TIMES; May 29, 2026)
New Delhi: Film actor-producer Anushka Sharma has acquired a minor stake in Agilitas Sports, which makes and retails sports footwear and apparel. Sharma's husband, cricketer Virat Kohli, is already a co-investor in Agilitas, which was founded by former Puma India executives.
Sharma will co-develop the company's yoga line under its sportswear franchise brand One8, Agilitas cofounder and CEO Abhishek Ganguly said.
"Anushka is partnering with Agilitas by investing capital in the company and building yoga-wear," he said, but declined to provide further details of the deal. Last year, Kohli, who ended his eight-year, Rs. 110-crore deal with German sportswear maker Puma, acquired a minority stake in Agilitas for about Rs. 40 crore as a co-investor and business partner. The deal also saw Agilitas acquiring Kohli's sportswear brand, One8.
Agilitas, which raised 450 crore from Nexus Venture Partners late last year, had previously acquired Indian footwear manufacturer Mochiko Shoes, as well as domestic India licensing rights for Italian shoe brand Lotto in a multi-year deal.
According to a report by research firm IMARC, India’s sportswear market touched sales of $10.69 million in 2025, and is forecast to touch $16.65 million by 2034. The report attributed the increase to “higher health consciousness, mainstream adoption of athleisure fashion and expanding ecommerce channels”.
(Crisp) Movie Review: THE GREAT GRAND SUPERHERO - ALIENS KA AAGMAN by FENIL SETA
5:00 PM
The Great Grand Superhero - Aliens Ka Aagman is a much-needed Hindi film that appeals to kids. The premise is fresh - an old man has to pretend that he's a superhero who regularly fights aliens! The way the madness unfolds on screen is entertaining. A couple of unexpected developments keep the interest going while the references to Koi Mil Gaya, Gadar and the TV show 'Mahabharat' are smart. Sadly, the third act is underwhelming and it'll leave viewers puzzled about certain plot points, especially the whole alien and superpower angle. No proper backstory is provided about the protagonist's parents and their profession, and they appear as mere props. The track of a handicapped girl seemed forced. Jackie Shroff keeps his act subtle yet impactful. Mihir Harshad Godbole (Dipu) makes his presence felt while Shivanssh Chourghe (Laddu) steals the show with his antics. Another child actor who does well is Jihan Jeetendra Hodar (Chanakya). Bhagyashree and Prateik Smita Patil are decent in cameo appearances. Saharsh Shukla, Kumar Saurabh, Durgesh Kumar (Kannu; Khulasa News journalist) and Sharat Saxena (Kartar Singh) are hilarious. Asmi Deo (Chingy) is lovely, but is let down by the writing. All in all, The Great Grand Superhero - Aliens Ka Aagman is a cute, sweet film for the whole family.
My rating - *** out of 5!
My rating - *** out of 5!
(Crisp) Movie Review: PASSENGER by FENIL SETA
4:34 PM
Passenger's tagline is intriguing - '130 million people take road trips every year. 15,400 of them are never seen again'! The intro scene is chilling and also a bit funny and it sets the tone. A few scary moments in the middle are memorable and the same applies to the climax. However, despite a run time of just 94 minutes, the film looks stretched. The whole angle of The Passenger is unconvincing since the van community seems to have little knowledge about it. The back story of the characters is also not properly explained. Jacob Scipio (Tyler) and Lou Llobell (Maddie) are okay, but they do well in the climax. Melissa Leo (Diana) is decent. Miles Fowler (Lucas) and Alan Trong (Daniel) steal the show, despite having cameo appearances. Lastly, Joseph Lopez (The Passenger) is terrifying. All in all, Passenger makes for a decent, one-time watch.
My rating - *** out of 5!
My rating - *** out of 5!
(Crisp) Movie Review: TUNER by FENIL SETA
2:28 PM
Tuner tells the story of a man suffering from an auditory condition who turns his weakness into a strength. We have not had films on a piano tuner and hence, one gets drawn into the world of the protagonist. The crime drama element adds to the tension. The love story is sweet. However, this switch from crime to romance is unsettling and not seamless. Also, despite the subject, the film never goes on a high. The protagonist's arc is improper and the development in the pre-climax is puzzling. Leo Woodall (Niki) is let down by the writing but performs well. Havana Rose Liu (Ruthie) delivers a stupendous performance, and Dustin Hoffman is adorable in a supporting part. Lior Raz (Uri) is suitable for the antagonist's role. Nissan Sakira (Benny), Gil Cohen (Yoni) and Tovah Feldshuh (Marla) are fair. All in all, Tuner is an average flick.
My rating - ** ½ out of 5!
My rating - ** ½ out of 5!
A part of me feels the Padma Bhushan could have arrived sooner-Alka Yagnik
4:05 PM
Tanvi Trivedi (BOMBAY TIMES; May 28, 2026)
Receiving the Padma Bhushan has been a deeply emotional and humbling moment for veteran singer Alka Yagnik, who says the honour feels like “an embrace of a lifetime’s devotion.” After decades of lending her voice to some of Indian cinema’s most memorable songs, the singer says being recognised by the country is among the greatest blessings an artiste can receive.
“Receiving the Padma Bhushan is a deeply moving and profoundly humbling moment for me. To be honoured by my country in this way feels like an embrace of a lifetime’s devotion — one of the highest blessings an artiste can receive — and I accept it.”
Reflecting on her long musical journey, Alka says music was never merely a profession for her, but the very essence of her life. “Music has been the very soul of my existence — it is not something I chose, but something that chose me. From my earliest memories, music has been my constant companion, my refuge, and my deepest form of expression,” she shares.
The singer adds that her relationship with music has been driven by constant learning and the emotional connection she feels with every song she sings. “What has kept me devoted is the endless joy of learning, the emotional connection with every song, and the privilege of touching people’s hearts through my voice,” she says.
While expressing gratitude for the Padma Bhushan, Alka candidly admits that a small part of her feels the recognition may have come a little late. “If I speak from the heart, there may be a gentle part of me that wonders whether this recognition could have arrived sooner. After dedicating my entire life to music, offering myself fully to my art with sincerity, discipline, and love, it is only natural to feel that such acknowledgement may have been due some time ago,” she says.
However, she believes time and experience have taught her patience and acceptance. “Life unfolds in its own rhythm, and destiny reveals its gifts when the moment is right. Once an honour of this magnitude arrives, the question of ‘when’ begins to fade into the background. What remains is the beauty of being seen, the warmth of being remembered, and the profound gratitude that accompanies such recognition,” she explains.
In Islam, there’s a saying that if God is very happy with you, He gives you a daughter-Munawar Faruqui
4:03 PM
Vinay MR Mishra (BOMBAY TIMES; May 28, 2026)
As the biryani plates are laid out at Bayroute, BKC and relatives begin to visit his home, Munawar Faruqui gets ready to celebrate. But this Eid feels different. The comedian and actor is celebrating the festival with a new addition to the family – his daughter, Barirah.
“This Eid feels wholesome. It’s family time. A lot is happening, but in the middle of all that, I just feel thankful. That’s the most important feeling,” says Munawar. The celebrations are special this year for another reason, too. A day before Eid, he marked his anniversary with his wife Mehzabeen, while his son Mikhail’s birthday is tomorrow. Munawar calls it a “triple celebration”.
‘There’s a saying, if God is happy with you, he gives you a son, and if he is very happy with you, he gives you a daughter’
Munawar goes on to share how being a father to a girl has brought a new kind of joy into his life. "I thank the Almighty every day. Especially this year, it feels different. In Islam, there’s a saying that if God is happy with you, He gives you a son, and if He is very happy with you, He gives you a daughter. So, I feel this year has brought a different kind of happiness into my life. Work-wise also things are good, but this Eid is special because we have a new member in the family," he shares.
‘Eid is family. Without family, there is no Eid’
For Munawar, Eid has always been about togetherness. “Now, apart from fatherhood, I have other responsibilities as well, so Eid days are absolutely packed. Relatives visit us in the first half of the day and then we go to their homes later. There’s always a daawat and celebration. Eid is about family. Without family, there is no Eid.”
At the same time, the festival also brings memories of loved ones he has lost over the years. “Since childhood, Eid has always been with my mother and father. At times, I get emotional because the people I used to celebrate it with are not around anymore. It’s not a good feeling, but at the same time, there’s still so much to look forward to,” he says, adding how gratitude has always been central to his celebrations.
“Even if we had very little, we celebrated. Even if we had a lot, we celebrated the same way. We learnt how to enjoy Eid in kam se kam and in zyada se zyada too. That feeling has stayed with me till today.”
‘I genuinely want to do some charity this year’
This Eid, Munawar also wants to embrace the spirit of sacrifice in a more personal way. “Sacrifice means letting go of something you love. There are so many things we don’t even use anymore, but we hold onto them emotionally,” he says with a laugh.
“I think I should finally go easy on my collection, especially of caps and shoes. I genuinely want to do some charity this year.”
I am rediscovering more opportunities as an actress-Archana Puran Singh
3:52 PM
Hasti Doshi (MUMBAI MIRROR; May 27, 2026)
Archana Puran Singh says she is finally getting the time to return to acting projects after years of being tied up with television comedy shows. Known for films like Raja Hindustani, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and Bol Bachchan, Archana admitted she had missed acting for quite a few decades.
“Earlier, when roles used to come to me, they’d say, ‘Ma’am, we have to shoot in Mauritius for 20 days, in Scotland for 25 days.’ I never could, because I was doing 104 episodes of The Kapil Sharma Show on TV,” she said.
With The Great Indian Kapil Show now following a seasonal OTT format, the actor says things have changed. “Fortunately for me, the show is now seasonal. So in between seasons, Kapil and I have time to explore other avenues. Now I am able to accept roles as an actor because we have seasons… There is more time for me to say yes.”
Archana also spoke about taking on new projects. “I just did Toaster with Rajkummar Rao. There’s a series with Kay Kay Menon called Aadarsh Baal Vidyalay. There’s another film I’m doing with Vikrant Massey. Now I’m kind of rediscovering more opportunities as an actress.”
I don’t think anyone should ever try playing Mogambo. You must never touch gold-Vardhaan Puri
2:47 PM
Vardhaan Puri revisits the magic of grandfather Amrish Puri’s iconic Mogambo ahead of Mr India turning 39
Vinay MR Mishra (MUMBAI MIRROR; May 26, 2026)
As Mr. India completes 39 years, actor Vardhaan Puri is celebrating not just the cult classic, but also the towering legacy of his grandfather, the legendary Amrish Puri, whose portrayal of Mogambo remains one of Indian cinema’s most iconic villains.
Speaking to Mirror, Vardhaan revealed that he has watched the film “at least 200 times” since childhood. “I would possibly have watched Mr. India at least 200 times from start to finish. There used to be a time when I would not eat my lunch if Mr. India wasn’t playing on the television in my dining room. I used to get hypnotised during the running time of the film,” he shared.
The actor admitted that every viewing of the film was essentially for his grandfather. “Every time I have watched the film, it has been for my grandfather. He is on a different level of conviction in the film. No wonder the portrayal is still celebrated today, especially among children,” he said, while also praising Anil Kapoor, Sridevi, Satish Kaushik, and Annu Kapoor.
"Everybody is equally fantastic in the film, especially Anil Kapoor uncle, my favourite Sri ma’am, Satish ji, Annu Kapoor ji, etc. But the real heroes of the film are Shekhar Kapur sir due to his vision and Salim Saab, Javed Saab for the wonderful writing," he added.
Ask him whether he would ever consider stepping into Mogambo’s shoes on screen, and Vardhaan instantly shuts down the possibility. “I don’t think anyone should ever try playing Mogambo. You must never touch gold. I feel like that character was destined to be played by one man only — Mr. Amrish Puri. When I’m an artist as seasoned as Dadu was in 1986 during the shooting of the film, I would love to do something on those eccentric lines, but I’ll repeat — I do not think anyone should ever try playing Mogambo again. It’ll be impossible to match that level of aura," he said.
Interestingly, as a child, Vardhaan rooted for the villain over the hero. “As a child, I felt that Mogambo was the hero of the film and Arun bhaiya was the villain. I have forever been celebrating the super villains and clapping and screaming every time Dadu came on screen and did his magic,” he concluded.
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