Finch concedes he’s going through a lean patch; hopes to fix it before T20 World Cup

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Melbourne, May 30 Australia’s white-ball skipper Aaron Finch has conceded to going through a lean patch with the bat but hopes the busy schedule leading up to the ICC T20 World Cup at home later this year will help him return to form.

“It’s been a reasonably lean patch. I’ve been through that plenty of times in my career. At times, you go through stages where you get a heap runs in a hurry and then go through some lean patches,” Finch was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au on Monday.

The 35-year-old cricketer’s poor form has persisted since the ICC T20 World Cup in the UAE late last year. He managed scores of 23, 0 and 0 in three One-day Internationals Australia played against Pakistan in March-April this year, but finished the tour with a 55 in the one-off T20I.

Poor form continued to dog him in IPL 2022 as well, where turning out for two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders, he managed 86 runs in five innings.

The right-handed batter is now working on his technique in a bid to recapture his best.

“I think my technique started to get a little bit too open,” Finch said, when reminded about the two ducks he got in the sub-continent, both time getting out LBW.

“When you’re worried about the ball swinging back in your front pad, you can tend to open up which then has a bit of a flow-on effect. I just lost the ability to transfer my weight back through the ball… but (I’m working on) squaring up my technique (through) my hips and shoulders and feet.

“With such a busy schedule of cricket, there’s a lot of time to be able to able to build and I suppose get back into the groove. It’d be really nice to try and get some big runs and keep everyone off my back for a little while,” he added.

 

Amazon to develop software for its consumer robots in India

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Bengaluru, May 30 E-commerce giant Amazon on Monday announced it will open a new consumer robotics software development centre here that will build solutions for the world.

The India centre will help support Amazon’s international Robotics division, which launched its first robot Astro last year.

“Last year we unveiled our first consumer robot, but it certainly will not be our last. This new consumer robotics software development centre will help support our growing consumer robotics division and attract top talent to work on world-class technology products,” said Ken Washington, Vice President, Consumer Robotics, Amazon.

Astro is designed to help customers with a range of tasks like home monitoring and keeping in touch with family.

It brings together new advancements in artificial intelligence, computer vision, sensor technology, and voice and edge computing in a package that’s designed to be helpful and convenient.

“India is an innovation hub and having the centre here will help Amazon create better consumer robotics experiences for customers worldwide,” Washington added.

Astro comes with in-built Alexa and uses advanced navigation technology to find its way around home.

The user can remotely send Astro to check on specific rooms, people, or things and can get alerts if Astro detects an unrecognised person or certain sounds when they are away.

“Turn off mics, cameras, and motion with one press of a button and use the Astro app to set out of bounds zones to let Astro know where it’s not allowed to go,” according to Amazon.

Amazon to develop software for its consumer robots in India

Australia to tour India for white-ball series ahead of Men’s T20 World Cup

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Melbourne, May 30 World T20 champions Australia will play a white-ball series in India this September ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, the dates for which are yet to be announced.

Cricket Australia (CA) on Monday announced an action-packed summer schedule, with the T20 World Cup on home soil between October 16 and November 13 the standout. They will also play home series against the West Indies and England ahead of the showpiece event.

CA announced that Australia will play two matches against the West Indies on the Gold Coast and three matches against England in Brisbane and Canberra in the run-up to the 20-over showcase.

Australia will also host England in a three-match ODI series after the T20 World Cup, before back-to-back Test series against the West Indies and South Africa starting at the end of November.

CA chose to depart from tradition and award Optus Stadium in Perth the first Test of the home summer, with Adelaide Oval then hosting the second and final Test against the West Indies that will be part of the World Test Championship.

The Gabba (Brisbane) will then host the opening Test against the Proteas prior to Christmas, before the traditional Boxing Day Test at the MCG and New Year’s Test at the SCG, according to ICC.

The dates for the upcoming women’s series were also announced, with Australia hosting Pakistan in ODI and T20I series in January prior to the Women’s ICC T20 World Cup in South Africa in February.

Meg Lanning’s side will also take part in the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham this year, before embarking on a tour of India during December.

Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley is hoping that both Australia’s Men’s and Women’s sides can defend their T20 World Cup titles over the next 12 months.

“Both our teams have the opportunity to defend their T20 World Cup titles, the men’s team on home soil and the women’s team in South Africa, as our exceptional players inspire the next generation of cricketers in the shortest format of the game,” Hockley said.

“I would like to take this opportunity to wish our No.1-ranked women’s team the best of luck as they head to Ireland and then England for the Commonwealth Games. It’s the start of an exciting eight months for the team that also includes a tour to India, home series against Pakistan, the opportunity to play in the Hundred and our own extended domestic season, before the T20 World Cup.”

Hockley said the reduction of many restrictions due to Covid-19 had made scheduling a bit easier than in recent years.

“After two years of being impacted by the pandemic, the 2022-23 home summer will be an especially busy one for the Australian men’s team as we honour our commitments to the ICC’s Future Tours Programme (FTP). This provides important opportunities to progress towards ICC World Test Championship Final qualification as well as build up for the ICC Men’s One-Day World Cup in India in 2023,” he added.

“While the timing of the ODI series against South Africa is set out in the Future Tours Program, we have had a recent request from Cricket South Africa to reconsider the dates of the three games, but have been unable to find alternative dates as yet.”

2022-23 summer schedule:

Men’s ODI series v Zimbabwe — August 28: Riverway Stadium, Townsville; August 31: Riverway Stadium, Townsville; September 3: Riverway Stadium, Townsville.

Men’s ODI series v New Zealand — September 6: Cazalys Stadium, Cairns (D/N); September 8: Cazalys Stadium, Cairns (D/N); September 11: Cazalys Stadium, Cairns (D/N).

Men’s T20I series v West Indies — October 5: Metricon Stadium, Gold Coast; October 7: Metricon Stadium, Gold Coast.

Men’s T20I series v England — October 9: The Gabba, Brisbane; October 12: Manuka Oval, Canberra; October 14: Manuka Oval, Canberra.

Men’s ICC T20 World Cup — October 16-November 13.

Men’s ODI series v England — November 17: Adelaide Oval, Adelaide (D/N); November 19: SCG, Sydney (D/N); November 22: MCG, Melbourne (D/N).

Men’s Test series v West Indies — November 30-December 4: Perth Stadium, Perth; December 8-December 12: Adelaide Oval, Adelaide (D/N).

Men’s Test series v South Africa — December 17-December 21: The Gabba, Brisbane; December 26-December 30: MCG, Melbourne; January 4-January 8: SCG, Sydney.

Men’s ODI series v South Africa — (Dates subject to confirmation) January 12: Blundstone Arena, Hobart; January 14: SCG, Sydney; January 17: Perth Stadium, Perth.

Women’s ODI series v Pakistan — January 16: Allan Border Field, Brisbane; January 18: Allan Border Field, Brisbane; January 21: North Sydney Oval, Sydney.

Women’s T20I series v Pakistan — January 24: North Sydney Oval, Sydney; January 27: Manuka Oval, Canberra; January 29: Manuka Oval, Canberra.

Away Tours:

Men’s Tour of Sri Lanka — June 7-July 12.

Women’s T20I Tri-series — Australia/Pakistan/Ireland: July 16-July 23.

2022 Commonwealth Games — July 29-August 7: Birmingham.

Men’s Tour of India: September.

Women’s Tour of India: December.

Women’s ICC T20 World Cup — February 9-February 26: South Africa;

Men’s Tour of India — February-March.

The Royals’ IPL 2022 season: Winning the Purple Cap and Orange Cup but losing the trophy

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Ahmedabad, May 30 It’s pretty heartbreaking when the Purple Cap and the Orange Cap winners are on the same IPL side, but the team still ends up on the losing side. However, Rajasthan Royals head coach, Kumar Sangakkara didn’t want to delve into the seven-wicket loss to Gujarat Titans in the title clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium and preferred to look at the positives.

Royals’ spin bowler Yuzvendra Chahal received the Purple Cap for his 27 wickets in 17 games, while Jos Buttler, with 863 runs, took the Orange Cap. But there was little consolation for the Sanju Samsom-led side at it failed to win the title in their second IPL final ever.

Summing up the loss, Sri Lankan great Sangakkara said, “I think we went through a few ups and downs but we have a lot of skill. We had huge contribution from Jos (Buttler), (Ravichandran) Ashwin and Yuzi (Chahal). We had Prasidh (Krishna), Boulty (Trent Boult), Obed McCoy coming in.

“I think it has been a great journey and great to be part of this franchise. It’s never about recreating what happened before but about looking forward. The change is inevitable. Who you are makes a lot of difference, so I will ask players to work on their whole self,” added Sangakkara.

It was a season of several positives for the Royals, who looked the best team till they were subdued by the Titans.

With 863 runs, four explosive centuries, most fours and most sixes and the Orange Cap to his name, Buttler capped off his most successful run in the IPL. But more than his run-scoring, it was his ability to switch gears and step out of his comfort zone that showcased the other side of his batting personality.

As an explosive batter and as a guiding force, Buttler’s presence in the Royals camp has added a different dimension to their batting , one that bodes well for seasons to come.

Chahal’s first IPL season in Royals colours turned out to be a rewarding one, with the leg-spinner finishing off with 27 wickets, an economy of 7.75 and the Purple Cap to his name. His variations were one of the biggest threats to the opponents, often being the cause of crucial breakthroughs just when the team needed them. Chahal bagged the only hat-trick of the season, his first of the IPL, and also registered his maiden five-wicket haul in the tournament.

Royals fans were surprised when Ravichandran Ashwin was brought on board and then pushed up in the batting order. The team soon found that the off-spinner was a handy batter, capable of striking the ball irrespective of his batting position. The move to promote him may not have always worked in the team’s favour, but it did boost Ashwin’s confidence, making him the all-rounder to slot in the Royals’ middle order. He finished with 191 runs — the most he’s scored in any season and the only fifty of his IPL career.

With so many positives, it’s a matter of time before the Royals bag their second IPL title after 2008. And, Buttler summed it up well when he tweeted after the final that he was looking forward to the “next one”.

“Disappointed with last night but we will be working hard and sticking together as always. Looking forward to the next one,” tweeted the England cricketer.

Comparisons being drawn between Kohli and Buttler after Royals’ loss in IPL final

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Ahmedabad, May 30 In the wake of Rajasthan Royals losing the IPL 2022 final to Gujarat Titans, comparisons are being drawn between their charismatic batter Jos Buttler and Royal Challengers Bangalore’s (RCB) Virat Kohli.

Buttler, with 863 runs this season, took the Orange Cap. But there was little consolation for the Sanju Samsom-led side at it failed to win the title despite the best efforts of the England cricketer.

With four explosive centuries, most fours and most sixes and the Orange Cap to his name, Buttler capped off his most successful run in the IPL. But more than his run-scoring, it was his ability to switch gears and step out of his comfort zone that showcased the other side of his batting personality.

On the other hand, Kohli too was in blistering form in the 2016 edition of the IPL, scoring 973 runs, smashing four centuries and playing the final, but ended up losing the tile to Sunrisers Hyderabad by eight runs.

Those 973 runs from Kohli’s bat in 2016 continues to be the highest score ever by a batter in a single IPL season. Royals’ Buttler (863 runs) came close this season, but not enough to threaten the former India skipper’s record.

While the Royals can take heart in the fact that they won the IPL in its inaugural season in 2008 under then-skipper Shane Warne, it’s been an endless wait for the Bengaluru side, which is yet to lift the trophy.

Critics said we didn’t have batters or quality bowlers, but it’s alright: Pandya

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Ahmedabad, May 30 Gujarat Titans head coach Ashish Nehra has said that while it’s not easy for any team to finish on the podium in the first year of its inception, the boys “under the leadership of Hardik Pandya” had “gelled really well” to lift the IPL trophy in their opening season.

IPL newcomers Gujarat Titans defeated Rajasthan Royals by seven wickets at the Narendra Modi Stadium here on Sunday to lift the prestigious IPL 2022 trophy on the back of finishing on top in the league table as well.

“Yes, we’ve hit a six in the first year itself,” said Titans skipper Hardik Pandya, adding, “It doesn’t get bigger than this. Critics said we didn’t have the strength in batting, and that we lacked quality bowlers. But, now, that we have the trophy, it’s alright.”

Nehra, who became the first Indian coach of an IPL-winning side, said, “It’s a nice feeling, but winning the trophy notwithstanding, the more important thing is the way we played, the way we qualified. It was so very heartening to see. The first year is not easy, and all the boys did really well and gelled very well under Hardik’s leadership.”

Titans’ middle-order batter David Miller, who contributed an unbeaten 32 off 19 balls in the title triumph, and who formed the backbone of the team’s middle-order during the season, said that the feeling of lifting the trophy gets enhanced if one is the underdog.

“It’s been one of my most memorable IPL seasons. Being the underdogs throughout the competition, it’s really nice to lift the trophy and be champions,” said Miller.

“Batting in the middle order can be difficult but I just tried to stay calm no matter the situation and give myself the best chance. But what I’ve enjoyed the most this IPL season is playing spin. I’ve been working really hard the last 3-4-5 years just getting better at spin. I never thought it was an issue but I’ve really enjoyed playing spin and changed one or two things and it’s definitely helped my game. Very chuffed about that,” added Miller.

 

Vaughan says Hardik Pandya is the future India captain

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Ahmedabad, May 30 Former England skipper Michael Vaughan is looking at Hardik Pandya as a future India captain after the charismatic all-rounder guided newcomers Gujarat Titans to victory in IPL 2022.

The Titans defeated Rajasthan Royals by seven wickets at the Narendra Modi Stadium here to lift the prestigious IPL 2022 trophy on the back of finishing on top in the league table as well.

Pandya’s leadership skills have been praised by several current and former players and the England great, visibly impressed with the 28-year-old’s captaincy, said that he could stake claim to India’s captaincy in the next couple of years.

Rohit Sharma is currently the India captain in all three formats of the game, having taken over from Virat Kohli, but Pandya’s on- and off-the-field demeanor while leading the Titans has impressed Vaughan.

Hours after the Titans lifted the trophy, Vaughan tweeted, “Fantastic achievement for a new franchise… If India need a captain in a couple of years I wouldn’t look past @hardikpandya7… Well done Gujurat .. #IPL2022.”

Gujarat Titans head coach Ashish Nehra too said after the title triumph that while it’s not easy for any team to finish on the podium in the first year of its inception, the boys “under the leadership of Hardik Pandya” had “really gelled well” to win in their opening IPL season.

“It’s a nice feeling, but winning the trophy apart, the more important thing is the way we played, the way we qualified. It was so very heartening to see. The first year is not easy, and all the boys did really well and gelled very well under Hardik’s leadership,” said the former India pace bowler.

 

Want to win the World Cup for India no matter what happens: Hardik Pandya

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Ahmedabad, May 30 Soon after lifting the IPL 2022 trophy in their maiden season, Gujarat Titans skipper Hardik Pandya said he wants to win the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup for India, after the team’s dismal show in the UAE last year.

While Pandya was a member of the squad during the T20 World Cup in the UAE, he remained mostly on the bench as he was reportedly gaining full fitness following back surgery.

“Absolutely, to win the World Cup for India no matter what happens,” said Pandya after the Titans defeated Rajasthan Royals by seven wickets at the Narendra Modi Stadium. “I am going to give it everything I have. (I’m) Always been the kind of guy to put the team first. For me, the goal will be simple: to make sure my team gets it the most.”

“Playing for India has always been a kind of dream come true, no matter how many games I have played. It has always been a pleasure for me to represent the country. The kind of love and support I have got it is only from the Indian team’s point of view.

“Long term, short term, I want to win the World Cup no matter what happens,” he stressed.

India has come close to adding a World Cup trophy to their cabinet in the half-a-decade or so but has fallen short on all occasions. During the 2016 T20 World Cup, India lost to eventual champions West Indies in the semifinal. In the 2017 Champions Trophy final, although Pandya was the highest run-getter, India succumbed to a massive defeat against Pakistan. Pandya’s smashing form in the 2019 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup semifinal could not get them over the line against New Zealand either.

While it is the first win for Gujarat, Hardik has won four IPL titles before this — all with Mumbai Indians.

“The four that I have won before this are equally special. Winning IPL is always special. I consider myself very lucky that I have played five finals, and have lifted the trophy five times,” Pandya said.

“Obviously this (latest win) will leave a legacy because we are a new franchise, playing for the first time, and we are champions in the first season. But the four that I have won before this were equally special.”

 

Rana Daggubati’s ‘Virata Parvam’ likely to be preponed

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Hyderabad, May 30 The film ‘Virata Parvam’ starring Rana Daggubati and Sai Pallavi is being prepared for release.

It will now be released on June 17, 2022, according to the latest information. The producers will apparently make an official announcement on Monday.

‘Virata Parvam’ billed as a love story set against the backdrop of a revolutionary war has been postponed several times. The film, which was supposed to be released last year, had to be put on hold due to the pandemic’s second wave. Even after that, the creators decided to keep it unreleased for unknown reasons.

The makers of ‘Virata Parvam’ have planned to start promoting the film as soon as they announce the details regarding its preponement.

The film is said to be a love story about a girl who falls in love with her favorite revolutionary writer and their story amidst the war, directed by Venu Udugula of ‘Needi Naadi Oke Katha’ fame.

Priyamani, Nandita Das, Nivetha Pethuraj, Priyamani, Eshwari Rao, Ravi Anand, Naveen Chandra, Zareena Wahab, and others played pivotal roles in this film.

Produced by Suresh Babu and Sudhakar Cherukuri under Suresh Productions and Sri Lakshmi Venkateswara Cinemas banners, the movie has Suresh Bobbili’s music.

‘F3’ team to hold an event to celebrate the success of comedy entertainer

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Hyderabad, May 30 ‘F3’ starring Venkatesh Daggubati and Varun Tej is doing well at the box office. As a result, the film’s production team has planned a ‘success meet’ to celebrate the performance.

On Monday, the filmmakers of ‘F3’ will hold a lavish celebration of the film’s success, as it has become a huge hit. At the Daspalla Convention in Hyderabad, the team will hold the event.

The event will have all the actors from ‘F3’ in attendance, along with director Anil Ravipudi, and other crew members.

The film’s music was composed by Devi Sri Prasad and directed by Anil Ravipudi. Tamannaah Bhatia, Mehreen Pirzada, and Sonal Chauhan play the female leads in this film, which is produced by Shirish and presented by Dil Raju.

 

Advait Chandan shares a heartfelt note for Aamir Khan, calls him ‘Mahapurush’

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Mumbai, May 30 Filmmaker Advait Chandan, who has helmed the upcoming Aamir Khan-starrer ‘Laal Singh Chaddha’ and had worked with Aamir in the 2017 release ‘Secret Superstar’, recently shared an appreciation note for the actor.

Along with the note, the director also shared a BTS picture from the sets, wherein Aamir can be seen donning an army uniform with black marks on his face.

Sharing his note on Instagram, Advait thanked Aamir and called him a “Mahapurush” (great man) for bringing out the best in him and encouraging him on his lowest days.

He wrote: “‘Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day, teach him how to fish and you feed him for a lifetime. Aamir sir taught me how to fish and then he gave me a fishing net and now he has given me a fishing boat! Every now and then he gave me some free fish as well.

“Today as our trailer is about to go live I am filled with gratitude for this man who has encouraged me on my lowest days, and calmed me on my most anxious ones, all while allowing me to be his biggest troll on most days.”

Lauding Aamir’s multiple skills, Advait made an interesting comment as he integrated the actor’s dialogue from the Rajkumar Santoshi directorial ‘Andaaz Apnaa Apnaa’.

“You’re the best, sir… Lord of Catan, Grand Chess Master, Rubrics Cube Meister, Life guru, a real directors actor, the best assistant director, the best continuity supervisor… The sharpest editor, the most generous producer! Sir, aap great, mahaan ho, swami ho, antaryaami ho… balki main toh kehta hoon sir, ke aap purush hi nahin… Mahapurush ho !!! Mahapurush… Thank you, sir, I owe you lots of fish. Advait,” the director adds.

 

Adivi Sesh ‘truly moved’ by Vizag response to ” promotion

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Hyderabad, May 30 The first of a kind pre-release previews of ‘Major’ in different parts of the country, are creating a positive buzz about the Adivi Sesh-starrer which is set for theatrical release on June 3.

Adivi who landed in Vizag for the preview show on Sunday was thrilled when fans lined along the streets of the port city of Andhra Pradesh, to welcome the star cast.

The actor, accompanied by co-stars Saiee M. Manjrekar and Sobhita Dhulipala, traveled in an open jeep to the screening. All along the route, locals hooted waved flags, and shouted out the actor’s name as the jeep drove through the city.

“I’m truly moved by the reception we received on the streets of Vizag. It was complete madness as fans were waving and hooting and it was a really incredible experience to witness this firsthand. I’m humbled by the love we received from the locals,” says Adivi.

A first-of-its-kind promotional activity, the makers of Major’ organized this jeep and bike rally in Vizag to allow fans a closer interaction with the actor.

Apart from creating a big buzz on the streets of Vizag, the team also received a standing ovation and major praise from the audience at the screening of the film in a popular single-screen theatre.

Much like the reception Major’ received in other key cities including Pune, Jaipur, Bangalore, and Mumbai, the screening at Vizag too had fans waving flags and leaving theatre screens teary-eyed and moved.

Based on the life of Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan, the decorated NSG Commando who perished while saving dozens during the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, Adivi portrays the titular role and is being noticed for his portrayal of the heroic Major with dignity.

The bilingual film has been shot in Hindi and Telugu and will release in Malayalam as well.

Produced by Sony Pictures International Productions in association with Mahesh Babu’s GMB Entertainment and A+S Movies, ‘Major’ is directed by Sashi Kiran Tikka.

It also stars Revathi, Prakash Raj, Anish Kuruvilla, and Murali Sharma.

 

Anushka Sharma starts shooting for her ‘Chakda Xpress’

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Mumbai, May 30 Actress Anushka Sharma on Monday started shooting for her next ‘Chakda Xpress’.

This development comes after Anushka put in months of preparation to get into the skin of the celebrated Indian fast bowler Jhulan Goswami.

A source said: “Yes, this is true. Anushka Sharma’s highly awaited next ‘Chakda Xpress’ has gone on floors from today. No stone will be unturned by the makers to make this into a spectacular and riveting movie.

“This is Anushka’s first film after she became a mother. So, there is a lot of anticipation to see her back on screen because she has delivered some of the most remarkable performances from a leading lady in Indian cinema. Plus, the fact that Anushka is doing a cricket film, makes the product even hotter!”

Sources have revealed that the film will be shot in India and England. As per reports, Anushka will be flying to the UK to shoot a 30-day schedule of the cricket film signifying the massive mounting that ‘Chakda Xpress’ will have.

‘Chakda Xpress’ traces Jhulan’s inspirational journey as she moves up the ladder despite the hindrances posed by misogynistic politics to fulfill her dream of playing cricket for India.

She succeeded in her goal and went on to captain the Indian women’s national cricket team and is a role model for aspiring cricketers in the country.

In 2018, an Indian postage stamp was issued in her honor.

Jhulan holds the world record for the highest number of wickets taken by a woman in an international career.

 

Anushka Sharma starts shooting for her 'Chakda Xpress' Anushka Sharma starts shooting for her 'Chakda Xpress'

Nitesh Tiwari, Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari announce new film ‘Bas Karo Aunty!’

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Mumbai, May 30 National Award-winning director Nitesh Tiwari, along with Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, has joined hands with Star Studios, Ronnie Screwvala, and Siddharth Roy Kapur to produce a young-adult comedy-drama titled ‘Bas Karo Aunty!’.

The film is an adaptation of Varun Agarwal’s bestseller ‘How I Braved Anu Aunty and Co-Founded a Million Dollar Company.’

‘Bas Karo Aunty!’ stars Ishwak Singh and Mahima Makwana in the lead. Helmed by debutant filmmaker Abhishek Sinha, it is written by Nitesh Tiwari and Nikhil Mehrotra.

The movie is about a real-life experience of millennials and today’s youth and their dilemma, the thrills, risks, and romance of embarking on a new life path and chasing one’s dreams; it tells a hilarious and inspiring story through witty millennial banter and capturing the zeitgeist and entrepreneurial spirit of young India.

Nitesh Tiwari and Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari said: “We found Varun Agarwal’s journey quite captivating, and I’m thrilled about mounting this film on the story of a budding entrepreneur.”

“Our film captures the mood and zeitgeist of the nation: India is young, jubilant, and enterprising, and ‘Bas Karo, Aunty!’ is the perfect response to anyone trying to impede this spirit of enterprise!”

‘Bas Karo Aunty!’ is a joyous story with a young fresh appeal, and we are happy to associate once again with leading content forces – Nitesh Tiwari, Ronnie Screwvala, Siddharth Roy Kapur, and Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari to present this fun entertainer!” *said Bikram Duggal, Head of Studios, Disney Star.*

Filled with fun, emotional, and inspiring coming of age moments, the film’s shoot has started recently and will be shot across Mumbai.

Siddharth Roy Kapur of Roy Kapur Films added: ‘Bas Karo Aunty!’ is a film that has the potential to resonate across the young generation that has embraced the hustle culture worldwide. While most people of this generation are navigating their careers and figuring out their skill set, they’re pitted against powerful odds. The meddlesome Anu Aunty is a personification of those obstacles. This is a story of joy and triumph, and I’m happy to have aligned forces with Bikram, Nitesh, Ronnie, and Abhishek to tell this story.”

“Premised on a funny and inspiring story that is sure to hit it off with people who have an entrepreneurial streak,” said Ronnie Screwvala – RSVP.

Director Abhishek Sinha shared: “Nothing beats the thrill of bringing a relatable story to the audience for filmmakers This film is our cinematic salute to everyone brave enough to go after their dreams.”

Produced by Star Studios, RSVP, Roy Kapur Films, and Earthsky Pictures, directed by Abhishek Sinha, and starring Ishwak Singh and Mahima Makwana, Bas Karo Aunty! is set in and shot all over Mumbai.

Balakrishna appears as a special guest on the ‘Indian Idol Telugu’ semi-final

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Hyderabad, May 30 Reality singing competition ‘Indian Idol Telugu’ has progressed to the semi-final round. Nandamuri Balakrishna, the ‘Akhanda’ actor, was the star attraction of the semi-final round.

Balakrishna, who has been busy filming his next film ‘NBK107’, amped up the entertainment quotient of the episode with his sheer presence and comments. Fans were unanimous in their view that it was one of the most memorable episodes of the show.

The show has been a fan favorite since its inception.

Many aspiring singers have used this platform to showcase their talent, and as the show approaches its grand finale, there have been many predictions about who will win the title.

‘Indian Idol Telugu’ is hosted by Srirama Chandra, while music director Thaman,  singer Karthik, and actress Nithya Menen are the judges on the show.

Fan walks 264 km to meet Ram Charan, shares paddy field portrait

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Hyderabad, May 30 A fan of Tollywood star Ram Charan from Gadwal came up with a unique way to honor his idol.

Jairaj not only walked 264 km to meet Charan but also created an artistic tribute to the star by painting a portrait of him in his paddy field with rice crops.

“An ardent fan named Jairaj creates an artistic portrait of #RamCharan with rice crops in his paddy field in Gorlakhan Doddi, Gadwal,” one of the ‘RRR’ actors publicists tweeted, as he shared the photos.

Ram Charan was all smiles as he posed with the super fan who also gave him bags of rice harvested from the field.

The actor took time out of his busy schedule to interact with the fan, spending a considerable amount of time with him.

Under Shankar Shanmugham’s direction, Ram Charan will be next seen in an interesting role in their upcoming political drama, which may be titled ‘Adhikari’.

 

Telangana minister’s convoy attacked during a meeting of the Reddy community

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Hyderabad, May 30 Telangana Labour Minister M. Malla Reddy escaped unhurt when his convoy was attacked by participants at a public meeting at Ghatkesar near here, sources said on Monday.

Some participants at the meeting organized on Sunday night by Reddy Jagruthi, an apolitical community platform, hurled footwear, stones, and chairs at the convoy of the minister, who had to leave the meeting abruptly.

Police personnel had a tough time escorting the minister to safety and stopping those who were chasing his vehicle.

The minister had to face the ire of some participants at ‘Reddy Simha Garjana’ when he praised Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) government and Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao for various development and welfare programs taken up in the state.

They raised an objection to the minister’s praise for the government and shouted slogans. Some of them rushed toward the dais asking him to stop his speech. A Congress leader asked him to stop praising the government and speak about what the government intends to do for the betterment of the community.

Amid the ruckus, Malla Reddy stopped his speech and after the order was restored following an appeal by the organizers, the minister resumed his speech. However, as he continued to praise the government, the participants interrupted him and raised slogans against him. This time, they were angry and refused to heed the appeals for calm.

Sensing trouble, the minister’s security personnel, and police surrounded him and escorted him off the dais. As his convoy was leaving the venue, several people started throwing footwear, stones, and even hurled chairs. Some of them even chased the convoy.

Leaders and workers of various political parties attended the meeting. The Joint Action Committee of Reddys demanded that the chief minister fulfill his poll promise to constitute the Reddy commission with Rs 5,000 crore.

Malla Reddy later blamed state Congress chief Revanth Reddy for the attack. The minister said since he had been questioning Revanth Reddy’s misdeeds, he carried out the attack through his supporters. The minister said he was not afraid of such attacks.

The minister said he was interrupted even as he was clarifying that TRS remains committed to fulfilling its promise to constitute the Reddy Commission and that justice will be done to Reddys.

Ektaa Kapoor, Jennifer Winget, Tanuj Virwani spill the beans on ‘Code M 2’

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Mumbai, May 28 Television czarina Ektaa R Kapoor, actress Jennifer Winget and actor Tanuj Virwani open up on Season 2 of ‘Code M’ as the trailer is out now.

Talking about reviving her character, Major Monica Mehra, Jennifer says: “‘Code M’ was my OTT debut in 2020 and the first season was received so well, that there were no two ways about returning for a sequel. With the dearth and variety of content across platforms, there are also not too many shows where actresses get to play the hero. And to top it all, ‘Code M’ revolves around the Indian army.”

“So, I am beyond thrilled that I get to play the brave and badass Major Monica Mehra once again. The upcoming season delves into Monica’s journey after she separates from her husband. Entrusted with the responsibility of the Kargil Diwas event, Monica must chase after an assassin. During her quest to apprehend the culprit, a series of events unfold, which forms the core of the plot.”

Commenting on his character in ‘Code M Season 2’, Tanuj adds: “It was exhilarating to be a part of the second edition of ‘Code M’, where I essay the role of Angad Sandhu, a retired army officer. This character is sensitive and powerful, with its own nuances, which makes it really fulfilling for me as an actor.

“I got the closest glimpse of army life, the dynamics of their relationships, their families, the sacrifices, the bravery so much more. Above all their warrior heart. I consider this as one of the best experiences of my career.”

Ektaa concludes with: “After the successful first season, the expectations were sky high with the next installment and Juggernaut productions have mounted the show very well and scaled it up giving it an edge-of-the-seat twist. We are confident our fans won’t be disappointed, as Season 2 promises to raise the drama, mystery, and suspense to the next level.”

Alongside Jennifer, Tanuj and Swanand Kirkire will also be seen returning to ‘Code M Season 2’ in key roles.

Helmed by Akshay Choubey, Presented by Jio Studios, Created by Ektaa R Kapoor, Produced by Jio Studios and Juggernaut Productions, the eight-episodic series with story and screenplay by Aniruddha Guha, dialogues by Aparna Nadig and additional screenplay by Niharika Puri,

‘Code M Season 2’ premieres on June 9 on Voot Select.

 

‘F3’ logs biggest opening for Venkatesh, Varun Tej

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Hyderabad, May 28 Director Anil Ravipudi has delivered ‘F3’, the sequel to his blockbuster ‘F2’, as promised. Despite failing to garner critical acclaim, the film appears to be doing well with family audiences.

‘F3’ earned Rs 4.06 crore in Nizam, Rs 5.05 crore in Andhra Pradesh, and Rs 1.26 crore in Ceded, bringing the first-day total to Rs 10.37 crore, according to the film’s unit.

This is expected to be Venkatesh and Varun Tej’s biggest day one collection. Dil Raju’s strategy of not going with low ticket prices is paying off handsomely for the film.

Surprisingly, the film’s last two shows grossed significantly more than its first two shows in Telugu states. This is a good sign for the film, which received mediocre reviews from the audience.

Bookings for the film on Saturday and Sunday seem to be decent.

On the other hand, the film had a strong overseas debut, grossing $500,000 on its first day, including the premiere show.

Inspired by KGF’s ‘Rocky Bhai’, 15-yr-old Hyderabad lad tries smoking, lands in hospital

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Hyderabad, May 28 After smoking a pack of cigarettes for the first time, a teenager in Hyderabad, developed a severe cough and throat ache complications needing medical attention.

Doctors at Century Hospital, a leading multi-specialty healthcare provider in the city, on Saturday announced they have successfully treated a teenager who inspired by “Rocky Bhai”, a character of the KGF movie series, smoked cigarettes and fell severely sick. The boy needed immediate medical attention to provide relief from the after-effects of smoking cigarettes, along with strong counseling.

A resident of Rajendranagar in Hyderabad, the 15-yr-old boy, whose name has been withheld to protect the child’s identity, was rushed to Century Hospital when his parents learned that he smoked a packet of cigarettes after watching the KGF2 movie three times in just two days. The boy watched the movie in the second week of its release in theaters and was inspired by the “style” of the lead character ‘Rocky Bhai’ and wanted to ape him by smoking for the first time, only to fall severely sick in the process, the hospital officials stated.

Commenting on the case, Dr. Rohith Reddy Pathuri, Consultant Pulmonologist, Century Hospital said: “Teenagers do get easily influenced by characters like ‘Rocky Bhai’. In this case, this young boy took to smoking and fell severely sick after consuming a full packet of cigarettes. Movies are a highly influencing element of our society, and it is important that moviemakers and actors have a moral responsibility to not glamorize acts like smoking or chewing tobacco, or consuming alcohol. Characters like ‘Rocky Bhai’ have a cult following and young minds do get influenced by the acts of these demigods on the screen.”

“Parents of adolescents must ensure they keep a watch on what their children are doing, and what factors are influencing their child’s acts. Instead of regretting later, it is important parents play a role in creating awareness about the ill effects of acts like smoking tobacco and consuming alcohol. Beating up children post the act, like in this case, might not always produce the best result,” added Dr. Rohith Reddy.

Doctors say that smoking during childhood and adolescence causes significant health problems among young people, including an increase in the number and severity of respiratory illnesses, decreased physical fitness, and potential effects on lung growth and function. Most importantly, this is when an addiction to smoking takes hold, often lasting into and sometimes throughout adulthood.