Showing posts with label Daler Mehndi. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Daler Mehndi. Show all posts
Daler Mehndi says he rejected a role in the Kajol-starrer Kuch Khatti Kuch Meethi
3:03 PM
Navya Kharbanda (HINDUSTAN TIMES; June 30, 2024)
While singer Daler Mehndi gears up to make his acting debut in the Akshay Kumar-starrer Welcome to the Jungle, he reveals that this is not the first time he has been offered an acting role.
“I was offered a role back in 1998 in the Kajol-starrer Kuch Khatti Kuch Meethi (2001),” says the singer, adding, “I remember meri baat hui thi [with the producers] and I asked them for more money than the hero of the film. After a meeting for about 15-20 minutes, I finally decided that I didn’t want to do the movie. All my friends said it’s a huge production and a great movie, but I responded, ‘Mera abhi singing ka kaam hai, main ussi par focus kar leta hoon; Abhi itna time pada hai, filmein toh hoti rahengi’.”
It has been over two decades since Mehndi has been writing and singing songs, and he admits that he “never felt the need” to transition into acting.
“I didn’t want to spend my own money to make a movie. But I always thought if any producer or director felt I’m needed or had the talent to play a particular character, they would call me. Now I feel ki ab time hai, gaane main jhande gaaad diye, ab acting mai gaaadne hain. If god wants, I’ll excel in acting as well,” shares the 56-year-old singer.
Mehndi, who has already shot some of his parts for Welcome To The Jungle, feels grateful to filmmaker Ahmed Khan for considering him for a role in the film. He shares how he is looking forward to being a part of an ensemble cast that includes actors Arshad Warsi, Raveena Tandon, Disha Patani, Jacqueliene Fernandez, Suniel Shetty among others.
Talking about how the role came about, he says, “He called me and said, ‘Paaji, maine ek jagah aapki haan kardi hai, na mat kijiyega’. He is my brother and an amazing human being, [so] I just couldn’t say no. I’m glad that he thought I could do a role in his film.”
He continues, “Everyone has been treating me with such love and respect. While filming, we keep laughing all the time on set, and I can’t imagine how much the audience will enjoy it. Akshay [Kumar] paaji itna hasaate hain, bahut maza aa raha hai.”
For most, balancing his acting career with music might seem like a challenging task, but Mehndi isn’t perturbed. “Technically, I started acting in my song Na Na Na Re (1997), so I don’t think it’s that difficult for me or I’ll have to work hard on it separately. I feel I have it in me,” he shares and adds, “Baaki bhagwaan ne chaaha toh aur acting projects bhi aayenge, I am willing to grow more in this arena. I am also hoping to balance both acting and music in the future.”
When I see my voice being featured on the Oscar-winning actor Ram Charan, my happiness knows no bounds-Daler Mehndi
8:05 AM
Even as his latest track picturised on Ram Charan is being lauded for blending Punjabi and south Indian music, Daler Mehndi says he has been bridging the cultural divide right from the onset of his career
Sonia Lulla (MID-DAY; April 1, 2024)
North meets south in the latest release of Game Changer as Punjabi music veteran Daler Mehndi renders a track for actor Ram Charan. Jaragandi, which translates to ‘let it happen’, is set against Punjabi beats, even as it boasts a south Indian flavour.
“The song was the vision of the music composer Thaman [S], with whom my last song, Banti Poola Janki, was created. He said he had a number that required my voice. I have sung both the Telugu and Hindi versions of this song. At the time of dubbing this number, I did not know who I was singing for, or even the film’s plot. I simply enjoyed the energetic composition, as I love Thaman’s work,” says Mehndi.
The singer believes that the track, also featuring Kiara Advani alongside Charan, appropriately blends its arresting visuals with the “vibrant composition”. “When I see [my voice being] featured on the Oscar-winning actor Ram Charan, my happiness knows no bounds,” he says of Charan, who starred in RRR (2022) that bagged an Academy Award in the music category.
Ask him if the boundaries between the music industries of the north and south are fading, and he says, “Music is universal and is not bound by language, cultures, faith, or physical boundaries. In time, every song gets its due audience. The cultural blend, in my musical journey, happened in 1995, and I want to thank myself, Daler Mehndi, for this amalgamation. Bolo Ta Ra Ra seeped into every nook and corner of the country—north, south, east, and west. In fact, in Kerala alone, it sold two lakh units on its release. I am honoured to have my music break these boundaries.”
It is during his dubbing session for the title track of an upcoming Punjabi film that Mehndi responds to our questions. With a slate of projects in his kitty, he says he has his eyes pinned on his acting stint in Welcome To The Jungle.
“I am thoroughly enjoying my debut in acting for Ahmed Khan and Feroz Nadiadwala’s film. This is new to me, and I am making the most of each day on the shooting sets. In April, I begin my concerts. Soon after, I will announce my new EP,” he signs off.
No matter how much we do to celebrate Ram Temple inauguration, it will never be enough-Daler Mehndi
8:49 AM
Making his foray into Bhojpuri music with a song on Lord Ram, Daler Mehndi encourages efforts to promote to-be unveiled temple
Sonia Lulla (MID-DAY; January 15, 2024)
Almost three decades after he made his industry debut, Daler Mehndi presents his first Bhojpuri song, Ram Ji Ki Jai, Hanuman Ji Ki Jai, for the Bhojpuri film, Rang De Basanti. “I got a call for this number, and five minutes later, we were recording it. It is based on the Ram mandir, and I was attracted to the lyrics and rhythm. It is a number that can get everyone grooving,” says the singer of the song that was filmed in Ayodhya, and features Bhojpuri actor Khesari Lal Yadav.
Ask him if rendering a song in a new language posed a challenge, and he responds in the negative. “I was born in Bihar, and was brought up there for 13 years. Even our Guru Vani [spiritual speech] contains a lot of Brij Bhasha, which has hence been part of my childhood. So, even though this is my debut in the language, it wasn’t difficult to render it.”
Even as the country celebrates the upcoming inauguration of the temple in Uttar Pradesh, a discussion on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ability to drive prominent film personalities to spearhead promotional work for the event cannot go unnoticed. Evidently, then, we ask Mehndi about his views on how cinema and politics have become interdigitated to celebrate the inauguration.
“This [matter has been in contention] for 500 years. No matter how much we do to celebrate this inauguration, it will never be enough. We’ve been hearing about these stories from our parents. So, I find myself fortunate to link my name to this event. I recall, when I recorded the song Kala Kauwa, I was told to remove it [from the album]. But, I was sure it would do well, as it did. Similarly, I have faith in this number. It will be the biggest Ram geet of the era,” he touts.
On the day that we connect with Mehndi for this interview, he is set to return to television after 25 years for a Lohri special episode in the show, Tere Meri Jodiya. It’s an exciting time for him as an actor, he confesses, speaking elatedly of his outing in the Akshay Kumar-starrer, Welcome To The Jungle.
“Apart from a song, I am also going to act in it along with Akshay paaji, Sanjay Dutt, Arshad Warsi, Suniel Shetty, and others. There are 20 stars. I play the role of a comic paaji, and enjoyed working on it. It is beautifully written, and left the cast in splits after each dialogue,” he signs off.
When you are attempting to (remix), the least you can do is seekh ke gayein aur sur mein gayein-Daler Mehndi
8:45 AM
Anukriti Sharma (BOMBAY TIMES; December 8, 2023)
On-stage performances aren’t a new thing for Daler Mehndi. But on the sidelines of a recent music fest in Pune, the singer told us that he was waiting for such an opportunity. “I have seen many performers at such fests in the past. Sab bada drama karte hai. It’s more to do with putting up a show. So, I thought whenever I would be invited, I would put on a great show for people to realise asli music hota kya hai,” he said.
Daler paaji, as he’s fondly called, also spoke to us about keeping it real in today’s world, the trend of remixing old songs, and the longstanding popularity of his music.
‘People should not ruin songs in a bid to make remixes’
Remakes and remixes have brought older hits back, albeit in a different manner. When asked about his take on the trend, Daler said it was a good opportunity to introduce the younger audience to popular songs from an older era but insisted on maintaining the sanctity of the music.
He shared, “Listening to someone like Pt Bhimsen Joshi made one feel they were having a conversation with God. That was the power of his talent. When you are attempting to bring any kind of old music back, the least you can do is seekh ke gayein aur sur mein gayein. Be it rap or remix, sur aur rhythm ka dhyaan rakhiye. I recently sang a remake of the 1951 song Ek Do Teen Aaja Mausam Hai Rangeen and liked it. I believe that remixes are important because they connect the current audience with music from our times.”
"I still feel happy remembering the time when my song Bolo Tara Ra Ra became famous, and I received a call from Amitabh Bachchan. He said, ‘Main aapke saath kaam karna chahta hu. Kya aap mere saath kaam karenge?’ That led to Na Na Na Na Re and that led to the gradual rise of popularity of Punjabi songs in Bollywood."
‘Would try to work on a song with Speed’
Recently, American YouTuber Darren Jason Watkins Jr, aka IShowSpeed travelled to India to meet
Daler Mehndi and even did a jam session with the Punjabi singer.
Talking about his meeting, Daler shared, “When he expressed a desire to meet me, I told him ki India aao milne but bilkul gaali ya slang nahi bologe. I am happy about the meeting, and we will try to work on a song together soon.”
“Language is hardly a barrier if the music is good. Take Naatu Naatu for example. Originally, it’s a Telugu song but it went on to win an Oscar. If the music resonates with people, the language you sing a song in doesn’t matter.”
Technology makes even a bad performer look wow-Daler Mehndi
8:29 AM
The singer talks about the importance of good light and sound during a gig; shares how the audience has evolved
Soumya Vajpayee (HINDUSTAN TIMES; December 2, 2023)
He has been rocking the stage for decades, entertaining audiences across generations. As he gears up for his performance at the Bacardà NH7 Weekender tomorrow in Pune, Punjabi pop icon Daler Mehndi says he’s seen the audience evolve.
“Now, they have mobile phones, so things are very interactive. As an artiste, it feels nice to see video clips from a gig that they share on social media alongside all the amazing messages. Other than stage light, the view from the stage is amazing when they wave with their phone flashlights on. It feels gratifying. Everything has become very up close and personal. My audience has grown from one generation to another,” says the singer, as he goes on to talk about the importance of good light and sound at gigs.
“When you have passionate light and sound engineers who love what they do and respect music, nothing can stop an artiste from creating magic on stage. Technology makes even a bad performer look wow. Imagine the wonders it could do to someone who is good at their music,” says the 56-year-old.
Though he loves going behind the mic, Mehndi says the high he gets by performing live is unparalleled. “What’s interesting is that almost all my performances are extempore, where even my group doesn’t know what I will sing next. Some of my iconic songs such as Sajan Mere Satrangiya, Kudiyan Shehar Diyan and Namoh Namoh took shape on stage,” says Mehndi.
Talking about a ritual that he follows before taking the stage, the singer, who will be performing his hits Bolo Ta Ra Ra, Ho Jayegi Balle Balle and Dardi Rab Rab at the show tomorrow, says he does the “ardas”: “Before I hold the mic, I ask the divine to allow me to sing in a way that everyone enjoys my show.”
I feel only those who cannot sing live do lip syncing-Daler Mehndi
8:20 AM
Daler Mehndi talks about the trend of singers lip-syncing during concerts and how technology is affecting music
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; June 9, 2023)
Music has undergone a sea change in the last decade and with audio processors like autotune available at the tip of your finger, almost anyone can sound good. And that is what singer Daler Mehndi is apprehensive about, as he believes it (the use of autotune) is “going overboard”.
Singer Armaan Malik had tweeted about lip-sync being a common practice at live shows, with singers preferring to “vibe” and not sing live, while the song plays in the background. “Gurdas Maan (singer) ji live gaate hain, main live gaata hoon aur mera chhota bhai, Mika (Singh; singer), bhi live gaata hai. Other singers like Sonu Nigam and Shaan also sing live. I feel only those who cannot sing live do lip-syncing,” says Mehndi.
The 55-year-old adds that the issue of lip-syncing has been a matter of discussion for a long time. “This topic has been going on for the last 15 years now. Koi nayi baat toh abhi ho nahin rahi hai. I am sure some federation will raise this issue [in the coming days],” says the Garda (Atrangi Re; 2021) singer.
Ask him about the kind of changes that are the need of the hour as far as Hindi film music industry is concerned and the Dardi Rab Rab Kardi (1996) singer shares, “Main kuch badal toh nahin sakta. But I feel every song has a soul [which technology drains out]. Ab toh aisi technology aa gayi hai ki aap hello bolo mic pe aur pura gaana aapki awaaz mein record kar denge. I feel this is very dangerous and it affects the music scene at large.”
Shayad composers aur lyricists bhi nahin chahte the ki singers ko royalty mile-Daler Mehndi
11:56 AM
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; May 3, 2023)
Singer Daler Mehndi is a happy man. A recent announcement by the Indian Singers Rights Association stated that singers will now get royalty for their songs and Mehndi thanks late legend Lata Mangeshkar for it.
“Royalty toh hum sab singers ko milni hi chahiye thi. India mein badmaashi thi kuch music companies ki. Shayad composers aur lyricists bhi nahin chahte the ki singers ko royalty mile. Yeh toh Lata didi ki meherbaani se hua hai jo hum sabko hamare rights mil gaye. Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji respected Lata didi a lot. She requested him to put this into effect and he agreed,” says the 55-year-old.
Talking of music labels, the Tunak Tunak Tun singer, like many musicians in India, has his own label now and he recently released a single under his banner. Though several musicians have cited lack of freedom while working with music companies as a reason for starting their own labels, it doesn’t apply to Mehndi.
“Mujhe toh koi pressure nahin lagta. Main sabke saath gaata hoon. If the other party is not happy with my song, why will I say, ‘Main toh aise hi gaaunga’?” the singer ends.
A man with a golden heart has won the Golden Globe, says Daler Mehndi on M M Keeravaani winning the Golden Globe
8:31 AM
Indian musicians weigh in on what sent M M Keeravaani’s composition Naatu naatu right to the top of coveted international film awards
Sonia Lulla (MID-DAY; January 12, 2023)
It wasn’t too long ago that foreign-film viewers would poke fun at Indian cinema’s song-and-dance routine. Slowly and surely, it caught their interest, and eventually won them over. M M Keeravaani’s win at the 80th Golden Globe Awards yesterday represented just that—a celebration of a song that was all things Indian. RRR’s Naatu Naatu, which was adjudged the best original song, has an upbeat traditional score and a choreography that’s as desi as it can get. Indian musicians say it is this rare combination that has been admired by the West.
Composer Sachin Sanghvi of Sachin-Jigar fame believes it is Keeravaani’s catchy beat, coupled with filmmaker S S Rajamouli’s vision, which made the song stand out. “Naatu Naatu is catchy and infectious. The world hasn’t seen this sort of energetic and crazy dance; it is a rarity for them. It is the song’s energy that has appealed to people, worldwide,” he reasons.
With this win, the RRR composer left behind American mammoths like Rihanna, Taylor Swift and Lady Gaga, who were vying for the gong. International portal Variety referred to the development as the win of ‘the underdog’. On home turf, though, Keeravaani is far from an underdog. His musician friend Sivamani is glad that the world has “finally recognized such a great composer”. “He is the king of melody.
Even his funk, rock music will have melody. This song is such an enjoyable watch. The choreography that sees the leading men compete, is a treat.” Singer-musician Daler Mehndi seconds his opinion. “Keeravaani’s music can be ethnic, folk, and classical, all at once. A man with a golden heart has won the Golden Globe.”
Keeravaani may have brought home the trophy, but no one would dismiss the role of choreographer Prem Rakshit in making the number — featuring Ram Charan and Jr NTR — the phenomenon it is. At a time when OTT viewers have the option of skipping a song, Naatu Naatu is one that they will watch a second time over. “Would a song be as impactful if a person simply stood at a place and sang it,” asks Lesle Lewis, making a case for the place of choreography in cinema.
“My dad [P L Raj] was among the biggest choreographers of his time, and has worked in films like Sholay and Sargam. It is the song-and-dance [routine] that the international audience consumes. Also, we have now incorporated elements from the West into our work. So, while this is novel for the international audience, it is not entirely alien to them. Indian music has been striking a chord after Jai Ho [Slumdog Millionaire].”
Daler Mehndi gets bail in 2003 human trafficking case; two-year jail term suspended
8:32 AM
HINDUSTAN TIMES (September 17, 2022)
Punjab and Haryana High Court gave relief to singer Daler Mehndi and granted him bail on Thursday in a 2003 human trafficking case. The singer’s lawyer, Sumanjit Kaur, confirmed the bail.
“I had filed a petition to review it and taking cognisance of it on behalf of the Punjab Haryana High Court, it has been suspended and Daler Mehndi has got bail. Daler Mehndi will be released from jail,” said Kaur.
Earlier in July, the Patiala district court sentenced Mehndi to two years of imprisonment in a 2003 human trafficking case.
Following the court’s order, the singer was taken into custody by Punjab Police. According to advocate Gurmeet Singh, Mehndi’s application for release on probation was also dismissed by the court.
Bakshish Singh, the complainant, alleged that Mehndi and his bother took Rs. 13 lakh from him on the pretext of sending him to Canada: “Daler Mehndi and his brother, Shamsher Mehndi, took Rs. 13 lakh from me to send me to Canada. Neither did they send me abroad, nor did they return my money. At that time, they used to do this work of sending people abroad.”
Human trafficking case: Daler Mehndi back in jail as appeal nixed
9:52 AM
Bharat Khanna (THE TIMES OF INDIA; July 15, 2022)
Patiala: A court in Punjab’s Patiala on Thursday upheld the two-year jail term of Punjabi pop singer Daler Mehndi in a 2003 human trafficking case. The singer was on bail as he had appealed against the trial court’s ruling in 2018.
The singer was taken into police custody after additional sessions judge H S Grewal dismissed his appeal against his jail term and plea for release on probation. He was taken to Rajindra Hospital in Patiala for medical examination before being sent to Patiala jail. Cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu and Akali leader Bikram Majithia are also lodged there.
Daler’s lawyer Rakesh Thakur said they would file an appeal against the conviction orders in the Punjab and Haryana high court. “Finally, justice has been delivered to the victims. There were 31 complainants and the total amount cheated ran up to Rs 1.93 crore, including Rs 13 lakh paid by Bakshish Singh,” said Gurpreet Singh Bhasin, the counsel of the complainants.
Sadar Patiala police station had registered the case against Daler, his brother Shamsher Singh, Dhian Singh and Bulbul Mehta in 2003 following a complaint by Bakshish, a resident of Balbera village. The complainant alleged that Daler took Rs 13 lakh to send him to Canada but neither sent him abroad nor returned the amount. Later, 30 more complaints of fraud came up against the brothers, accusing them of taking “passage money” to help them migrate to other countries illegally but not doing so.
I have said no to at least 100 to 150 rishtas in last 20 years-Mika Singh
8:19 AM
Riya Sharma (BOMBAY TIMES; March 29, 2022)
After attending many weddings as a performer, it seems like the wedding bells are finally going to ring for Mika Singh. In the age ofdating apps, the singer has decided to find love on TV through a reality show. Going all out to find a life partner for himself, the Sawan Mein Lag Gayi Aag singer will be seen on an upcoming TV show Swayamvar - Mika Di Vohti. He shares that he was offered to do the show a decade back as well but he didn’t take it up then. However, now he felt that it was time for him to take the plunge.
In a chat with us, Mika revealed why he decided to take this route to find himself a partner. He says, “I think many people would want to have a swayamvar like this. I am lucky that I got an offer like this after many years. I was not ready earlier, I have said no to at least 100-150 rishtas in last 20 years, and my work was really important to me. People would think that I like to party and hangout with girls and that is my reason of not getting married but that was never the case. Meri family mein aaj tak meri itni himmat nahi hui ki main Daler paaji ko apni koi girlfriend dikhaun, humare mein yeh system nahi hai. Woh respect rehti hai. Finally, when this offer came Daler paaji said,‘Kar le, kya pata koi mil jaye. Tu waise toh humari baat nahi maan raha.”
But why now, we ask? “Right now, I am 44. Better hai ya toh main single rahoon, ya ab shaadi kar loon,” he shares. Talking about the kind of girl that he is looking for, Mika adds, “We should have an understanding. Girls know what they want and the kind of understanding they want, so I want someone like that.”
‘I PLAN TO FIND LOVE BY THE END OF THE SHOW’
When asked if he intends to find love by the end of the show, or does he plan to get married in the last episode, he says, “I am looking for love as well as marriage. Love hoga tabhi toh marriage hogi na! Love is blind, pyaar ek second mein bhi ho jaata hai and kabhi kabhi time lag jata hai. And sometimes hota hi nahi hai. Main show ke end tak pyaar dhundh lunga, phir shaadi bhi kar lunga. Wedding might not take place by the end of the show, but it’s a possibility. When couples get married, they post mushy pictures on social media for likes and comments. They want people to talk about them even if not many attend their wedding. That way, I am very lucky because each moment of my life will be telecasted. Meri khushi ka har pal saari duniya dekh rahi hogi.”
Talking about his family’s reaction, Mika shares that everyone is happy. “Mere ghar wale auntiyon wali baatein karte rehte hain. They say, ‘Koi hai toh bata de, main uske ghar pe baat kar lungi.’ Main bolta hoon koi nahi hai, toh kehte hain,‘Ho hi nahi sakta, sadda aina sona munda hai.’ They are happy that finally I have taken the first step. I don’t have a phobia or an issue in meeting people, mujhe bas saamne waale ke saath baith kar mana karna achha nahi lagta. I think what will her parents think and that’s why I have not met a girl for marriage in 20 years,” he says.
‘I TOTALLY LOVE MY IMAGE’
Does he want to change his image with the show, we ask? “I love my image, I don’t want to change it. Jo main hoon, mujhe pasand hai. I have had a very challenging life, main chaahe kuchh karu ya na karu tab bhi nazaron mein aa jata hoon. Agar main chup baitha hoon toh log chaahenge ki main kuchh karu – ya toh peeke gir jaaye ya gaadi thok de – but I love my image. I am a bad boy with a good heart and that’s why I have a huge fan following. I am here because of my fans, artistes announce their shows on social media, I don’t even do that. I have enough shows, songs and fans just like Salman bhai. Har insaan ki life mein do categories hoti hain – koi aapko pasand karta hai koi nahi karta, jisko apne artistes ko pasand karna hota hai woh karta hi hai,” he says.
Sharing about his former love interests, Mika points out he had a love life two decades back. “Uske baad main apne career mein hi busy raha. I had a girlfriend in 2001 and she was from Delhi so her parents were like, ‘Bollywood aisa hi hota hai, leave it’. I had another girlfriend during my struggling period and I told her that I am going to be an upcoming star, uske parents ne bola jab banega star tab dekhenge. Toh 2-3 meri girlfriends thi and teeno ki shaadi maine attend kari because meri life mein yeh important tha ki uske parents kya chahte hain. I am not selfish, I don’t want a life where me and my partner are cut off from our families, so it did not work out,” shares the singer.
He adds that he hopes to find a life partner through the show. Before Mika, Rahul Mahajan, Rakhi Sawant and Ratan Rajput have also taken this route to find a partner for themselves.
I realised that Metaverse is not the future, but the present-Daler Mehndi
8:03 AM
Even as the world asks ‘WTH is NFT’, veteran musician Daler Mehndi goes a step ahead and purchases property in the Metaverse
Sonia Lulla (MID-DAY; March 28, 2022)
At a time when a major chunk of the world is still scratching its head as it tries to make sense of cryptocurrency, Daler Mehndi has emerged a pioneer of sorts by becoming among the early Indians to purchase virtual real estate in the Indian Metaverse, PartyNite.
The decision was taken after Mehndi enjoyed his January 26 gig at PartyNite, and the property, named Balle Balle Land, will have a store from which fans can purchase merchandise via NFT tokens.
“When I was approached to perform at the PartyNite Metaverse inauguration event, I went with an open mind. But when I saw the larger-than-life spectacle, and my fans dance with me, I realised that this is not the future, but the present. [This is the means] to reach out to the game-savvy young audience. [I wanted to] own my land so that I could provide meaningful content, host events, and sell merchandise. It is a very different experience from live shows. Where else can one fit in millions of audience members with whom we can interact and groove?” asks the musician, further detailing how he had the chance to pick a location of his choice.
Mehndi says he wanted “the central location in the Utopia land of PartyNite”. He also wanted a space that was big enough to host events, concerts, movie premiers, and his store. “It had to be an earthy place for people to hang out at. I was shown a few land parcels, and I chose what fitted this requirement. The Metaverse is a parallel world with its own economy. It is similar to how the Earth came to be. People claim land, bring digital assets, and sell them. Some of the goods are also shipped physically, so it’s like reimagining the world all over again. I’m grateful that I’m on the pilot seat, making this happen.”
With his new venture, Mehndi seeks to provide quality and meaningful content to fans, directly. “I will bring established singers, and at the same time, provide a platform for upcoming singers and performers as well. I’m able to help movies, do promotions, and directly engage and communicate with the citizens of Balle Balle Land. We are working with artists throughout the year, and a lot is going to happen in the land.”
Now, singer Mika Singh to have a swayamvar on national television; Mona Singh to host
8:31 AM
Akash Wadhwa (BOMBAY TIMES; March 1, 2022)
After Rakhi Sawant, Mallika Sherawat, Rahul Mahajan and Ratan Rajput had their swayamvars on national television, we hear that Bollywood singer Mika Singh is all set to look for his bride on a reality show. According to a source, “The show will be similar to swayamvars from the past. It will go on air in a few months. Mika will not get married on the show, he will only get engaged and take his relationship further after that. Contestants participating in the show will be from across the country.”
Viewers are often skeptical about such shows because all three women celebs — Ratan Rajput, Rakhi Sawant and Mallika Sherawat — did not eventually marry the partner they chose on the show.
However, Rahul Mahajan did tie the knot with Dimpy Ganguly, a 25-yearold Bengali model and actress, who he met on his show Rahul Dulhaniya Le Jayega in 2010. The couple lived together for four years and eventually divorced in 2015.
In the case of Mallika, she chose a much younger Vijay Singh as her life partner on the reality show, The Bachelorette India, Mere Khayalon Ki Malika. Post the show in 2013, the two dated for a while before calling it quits. Ratan, who got engaged to Abhinav Sharma, called off her engagement soon after the show ended. The same happened in the case of Rakhi, who separated from Elesh Parujanwala, who she chose during her swayamvar.
Meanwhile, there is buzz that Rakhi is likely to appear on Mika’s show (remember their infamous
kiss that made headlines many years ago?). So, will she be a contestant? We’ll have to wait and watch.
--------------------------------
Vinay MR Mishra (HINDUSTAN TIMES; March 1, 2022)
Singer Mika Singh is all set to find a partner for himself. He will be part of a popular matchmaking reality show’s latest season.
Although, the show won’t be the next edition of the international series like the one that featured Mallika Sherawat, instead the concept is in the lines of the format that had celebrities such as Rakhi Sawant, Rahul Mahajan and Ratan Rajput hunting for their partner.
Furthermore, we’ve also exclusively learnt that actor Mona Singh is in talks to host the show. “The makers are keen to have Mona on board,” says a source close to the development. The team is yet to sign the papers.
When we asked Mona about it, she replies, “I don’t have any confirmation, (so) I’d like to not comment.”
Moreover, it is also said that Mika’s brother, singer Daler Mehndi will be an integral part in helping find the perfect partner for his younger brother.
“Mika is extremely kicked about the show, which is in the initial stages of making. He is on board, and has promised the makers to get his closest friends on the show as guests,” reveals an insider.
The untitled show will go on floors in July and depending on the singer’s availability, it’ll be shot either in Mumbai or an exotic location in India.
Mika and Daler didn’t respond to our calls till the time we went to press.
Indians are in a much better place than many other countries-Daler Mehndi
8:11 AM
Juhi Chakraborty (HINDUSTAN TIMES; January 26, 2022)
Singer Daler Mehndi has one wish for every Indian this Republic Day — to feel grateful to be living in this country. He urges his fans to “love our country” as he gears up to stage India’s first virtual live concert in the metaverse on R-Day.
The singer, who is dedicating the performance to the nation and all the people residing in it, will steal the spotlight with his evergreen hit albums such as Namoh Namoh, India India and Jago India. Brimming with excitement, he says, “The whole world will be a part of it. It is a new concept in India and a challenging thing to achieve. At first, I didn’t understand the concept but then I realised it is quite popular outside India. It is a digital avatar and totally virtual and I think after a few years, this is going to be the next big thing.”
Glad to see his music resonating with people during these grim times, the 54-year-old feels that the country has done far better in dealing with the Coronavirus crisis for the past two years, as compared to other countries.
Explaining the statement, the singer known for songs such as Bolo Ta Ra Ra, Tunak Tunak Tun and Na Na Na Na Na Re shares, “We [India] are a thriving economy. Look at Afghanistan and the turmoil that is there in the country. There are so many countries that are undergoing internal and external conflicts across the world. We [Indians] are in a much better place than many other countries. Even with Covid-19 itni badi trasdi guzar sakti thi but aisa nahi hua, third wave bhi humne samhaal liya.”
The secret of my energy is that I don’t do substance abuse of any kind-Daler Mehndi
8:52 AM
Daler Mehndi tells us how he maintains his uniqueness, after 25 years in the music industry
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; January 7, 2022)
Singer Daler Mehndi’s powerful voice can lift any song you give him. And while he doesn’t mind taking up any genre or language after 25 years of being in the industry, there is one condition he still lays down before agreeing to lend his voice to a track.
“Main koshish karta hoon jo hamari young generation ke upar ganda asar daale, woh gaana na karun. I have my own style, people call me for that,” he says, adding, “The secret of my energy is that I don’t do substance abuse of any kind, it is all pure and not artificial. I don’t drink, not even cold drinks,” says the 54-year-old who recently had his latest song, Garda Udaa Diya, release from the film Atrangi Re.
It brought him back together with music maestro A R Rahman after they last delivered the hit title track of Rang De Basanti (2006). “We have done a dhamaka again. I got a call from Rahman sahab when the film was being made. He had told them ‘Mere mind mein sirf ek aadmi hai.’ Then we spoke on video call, and I flew to Chennai to record it. The song has been breaking records ever since it released,” claims Mehndi.
He has seen a lot change in the industry since he started off. The latest ‘in’ thing is the focus on maximum number of views online. He confesses he is not too bothered about it. “Maine kabhi bhi number pe dhyaan nahin diya. It feels happy to see how many people respond though. It feels nice that we are giving pure music to our listeners and not just remixing,” Mehndi concludes.
This festive season, Daler Mehndi urges people not to create ‘hurdang’ and keep caution
8:16 AM
Juhi Chakraborty (HINDUSTAN TIMES; October 17, 2021)
The festive season this year is going to be slightly better than the last, feels singer Daler Mehndi. However, he is quick to add that people should tread with caution since we are still in the middle of the Coronavirus pandemic.
“Just celebrate (the festival) at home. It is not necessary that you go out and hurdang machaao. You can do the pooja at home and that will give you a really nice feeling. We should just pray to God that we all are alive and are able to celebrate the festivities.”
The Tunak Tunak Tun singer further asserts, “It is about being cautious, we should not make the situation worse. Rather do our best to make it better. We all hope that the bad time is over and now things will only look up. Aage toh sab achha hain. Din roz badalte hain.”
The singer, 54, continues, “We must also celebrate the fact that we are safe. Just tell that to yourself, don’t get into a low phase in our lives.”
Noting how the vaccine situation is also seeing a positive trend in the country, Ho Jayegi Balle Balle singer shares, “Vaccine leke hum sab sahi diection mein jaa rahe hain. Work has also started and that is a great positive thing to happen during this festive season for musicians because we get to do live shows, which is a huge part of our livelihood.”
The singer continues, “Concerts have also started happening. Umeed honi chahiye. Just save the energy and keep a positive outlook. Only then we will be on the right path.”
I don’t have many followers on Instagram, but I feel proud to say that they are genuine-Daler Mehndi
8:17 AM
Sugandha Rawal (HINDUSTAN TIMES; August 18, 2021)
After spending close to three decades in the music industry, singer Daler Mehndi isn’t interested to be part of the rat race of getting more followers, likes or views. He wants to explore different rhythms, and let his work do all the talking. “I don’t believe in buying fake million views or followers. I don’t have many followers on Instagram, but I feel proud to say that they are genuine,” says Mehndi, who turns 54 today.
The singer feels that a musician’s work speaks more than any promotion. “It has to be genuine. Koi story, zyada promotion ya gimmick ki baat nahin hai. Maine kabhi bad words use nahi kiye hain to make my songs catchy. I’m very happy that I’m working with my full honesty,” he adds.
Mehendi, who started his career in the music industry in 1995, feels proud that his past work continues to get love. “Bollywood stars have a whole team behind them to make them popular, but Daler Mehndi has reached all across the world without any team. Recently, a BTS member also talked about singing my songs while growing up,” he says, adding that he’d love to collaborate with the global sensation.
Now, the singer, best remembered for hits such as Bolo Ta Ra Ra, Tunak Tunak Tun and Na Na Na Na Na Re, has chalked a rough plan about the sounds he wants to explore in the next 20 years. He has come out with a Rajasthani song, released a ghazal on his birthday and will release a Gujarati track.
“I had always thought that I’d explore new areas. I plan to recreate ghazals from my compositions which I used to sing in the 1980s,” he says.
Asked if there’s other song from his hit tracklist which he’d like to recreate, and he quips, “Mere gaane koi recreate nahi kar paa raha hai toh mein khud hi karunga bahut jaldi.”
Elections 2019: Political parties are welcoming Bollywood celebs into their fold and how
8:54 AM
Political parties are welcoming Tinseltown folk into their fold. A known face can go a long way in drawing crowds and win elections
Shaheen Parkar (MID-DAY; April 28, 2019)
Tinseltown and politics have always had an intrinsic connect. There is nothing like roping in cine idols and popular faces from the entertainment world to draw the crowds and hopefully garner the votes. In the on-going Lok Sabha poll, several actors have tossed their hat into the ring to test their popularity. Last week, Sunny Deol joined the Bharatiya Janata Party. Within hours, he was nominated the party's candidate from Gurdaspur, Punjab. Singer Daler Mehndi is the latest to join the party and was welcomed into the fold by leaders singing his track, Bolo Ta Ra Ra Ra.
Though it is not a new phenomenon - there have always been actors-turned-politicians - the rush by politicians to get film folk to endorse their respective parties is seen as a one-upmanship game. It is well known that some celebrities endorse it for money, especially those who do not harbour ticket aspirations. Others, for a party position and there are those who do it because they want to test new waters.
Former Bigg Boss contestant and Haryanvi dancer Sapna Choudhary has been campaigning (right) for BJP candidates in New Delhi. She says, "I have not joined the party. I am doing it because my friends are contesting." She considers Bhojpuri actor Manoj Tiwari her pal, so has been part of his roadshows.Last month, she found herself courting controversy after she found herself being welcomed by both the Congress and BJP into their fold. There was talk that she would get a ticket from Lucknow. "I didn't want to contest or join any party. But when my friends, who are standing for elections call me, I go."
Television producer Saurabh Tewari who has made shows like Zindagi Ke Mehak and Krishna Chali London too joined the BJP because of the friend-in-the-party factor. He is currently taking time off the shoots and has parked himself in Patna to canvas for Ravi Shankar Prasad who is taking on Congress's Shatrughan Sinha. Explains Tiwari, "I know him, this is the reason I joined the party. I am still a newcomer, so this election is like a training ground for me. I am still learning the ropes. I accompaned him to fill the nomination."
Tiwari says may be in the future he will take the electoral plunge but for now, he is happy canvassing for Prasad. "Right now, my production house is set and I can take off to do other things. Earlier, when I was just setting off, there was no time to do anything else."
Another television name who took the political plunge was Shilpa Shinde (left), best remembered as Angoori bhabhi on Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hain and winner of Bigg Boss season 11. So far, she has not canvassed for the party but is planning to go to Bhopal to muster support for Digvijaya Singh. "I know his wife [Amrita Rai]. She called me and told me that as I was a popular face, they would like me to the campaign. I consider it an honour that they are aware of me and my work."Shinde says she was always politically conscious thanks to her father, Satyadev Shinde. "He was a social worker and a die hard Congressman. I have grown up watching him interact with leaders like Sharad Pawar and Sushilkumar Shinde. So you can say, I was exposed to politics."
The actor adds that she did not join the Congress to get a ticket. "I am still new in politics. I do not want things readymade. May be in the future, I may harbour aspirations after I have got a first-hand experiene what elections are all about."
Shinde claims she was offered a ticket to stand from Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, but she declined it. "Uttar Pradesh is the hotbed of politics and I did not see myself being a part of it."
Another actor who recently took the political plunge was Isha Koppikar (top image), who joined the BJP. Best remembered as Bollywood's Khallas girl after the chartbuster, she says, "I joined politics because I wanted to serve the country. I liked the transformation and governance in the last five years. I was inspired by the leadership of Narendra Modi. There have many positive changes in terms of the Swaach Bharat campaign, infrastructure and our presence in the global market. I am sure the BJP will continue doing better work if elected again. I am supporting the development of our country."
Koppikar has been appointed the executive chairman of the party's transportation wing. She did not want to contest the election. "I have campaigned for the party in Jalna (below) and Goa," she says. Shinde is now hopeful that she will bag a party post. "We will have to wait till May 23 [the day of the counting of votes] because only then a clear picture will emerge. Right now everyone is busy with the elections."
Sapna Choudhary
TV producer Saurabh Tewari (extreme left) campaigns for Ravi Shankar Prasad in Patna
I urge the film fraternity to raise funds for bulletproof gear for security forces-Daler Mehndi
9:33 AM
Daler Mehndi gets emotional while talking about the recent Pulwama terror attack, which claimed the lives of 44 CRPF jawans
Faguni Verma (BOMBAY TIMES; February 25, 2019)
After actors showing solidarity with Pulwama martyrs, singer Daler Mehndi is also urging the music and film fraternity to contribute towards the security of our soldiers. “Be it Bollywood or the South film industry, I want all of us to come together through our profession, and present the security forces with bulletproof jackets and vehicles, and jammers so that they are safer,” said Daler in Chandigarh. He added, “God forbid, if any tragedy strikes in the future, at least the impact will be lessened due to better equipment. Not just the soldiers, these should be provided to every police personnel, besides other security forces manning the country’s safety.”
Daler says that he is taking this task seriously and intends raising funds for the same. Speaking about his contribution, he added, “I will do anything to collect the funds for this task. Even if I have to do 100 shows throughout the year, where they don’t pay me, the money collected should be used to buy bulletproof jackets and vehicles along with jammers, and distributed by us.”
Saddened by the martyrdom of the jawans, Daler said, “I get deeply distressed by the news of someone’s brother, father or son getting killed in such devious attacks. If I try to sing about the emotions that well up within me during such incidents, I will fail. My heart goes out to the families, who are suffering the loss. I might end up crying if I speak more on them.”
Images: Daler Mehndi performs at Kapil Sharma and Ginni Chatrath’s reception
8:04 AM
Guests mingled with the groom’s furry friend and sampled Turkish ice-cream
Natasha Coutinho (MUMBAI MIRROR; December 17, 2018)
Kapil Sharma and Ginni Chatrath followed up their traditional Hindu wedding and a Sikh ceremony on December 12 in Jalandhar with a reception in the groom’s hometown, Amritsar, on Friday night. Daler Mehndi was belting out hit numbers like “Bolo Tara Rara” and “Tunak Tunak” which upped the temperature and took the winter chill away.The function started at 8 pm but Kapil arrived with his better half only past 10 pm and the party went on till late in the night. Kapil’s friends including Sumona (Chakravarti), Kiku (Sharda), Rajiv (Thakur), Chandan (Prabhakar) and singers Jasmine Sandlas and Zeus were all present at the bash. Krushna Abhishek had to leave because of a prior commitment in Mumbai but Abbas and Mustan, who directed Kapil’s debut film, stood out in their signature all-white. “His pet Shih Tzu, Cheeku (left; below), was a special guest, dressed in a specially-tailored suit with mirrorwork and a clip in his hair,” informed a guest.
There was lots of seafood and a live chutney counter, a Turkish ice-cream counter and cakes and pastry counters. “There was also Italian cuisine and of course, all the traditional Punjabi dishes,” added the source, saying all the leftover from the reception was parcelled off to a non-profit organisation with volunteers turning up at 4am.The groom will be back in Mumbai on Tuesday to resume shooting for The Kapil Sharma show. Buzz is, Shah Rukh Khan will be his next guest. The couple’s Mumbai reception will be on December 24.
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