Entertainment

I Discovered a Tale That Blends My Two Passions: History and Law

Published

1 year ago

April 21, 2025

It’s hard to believe this is your first film! How did you manage to blend history and fiction in your debut?
Thank you for this interview. I truly appreciate the way you’ve framed this question. You refer to it as a‘Synthesis of history and fiction’ – and that’s precisely what I aimed for. Like my screenwriter idol, Aaron Sorkin, who emphasized that films about real events and people shouldn’t be mere photographs, I envisioned them as‘paintings’. A painting allows for greater freedom of expression and the creation of drama. That’s what I set out to do with this project. I wanted to share Sankaran Nair’s journey with as many people as possible. With the backing of his family, my writing team and I worked to portray a man who transformed from a British loyalist into one of the nation’s greatest patriots—a figure who harnessed the law to challenge an Empire.

Even though this is your debut, it feels seasoned.

Regarding this being my first film, I consider myself fortunate to have had such a supportive team that helped refine and elevate my vision.
Normally, filmmakers start with lighter themes—what drew you to history?
As a lawyer, I’ve always had a passion for history. I’ve been captivated by stories exploring justice, legal systems, and the dynamic between governments and citizens. Growing up, I admired Raj Kumar Santoshi’s films like Damini and Ghayal. I was also fascinated by Western courtroom dramas such as Rob Reiner’s A Few Good Men, and Sidney Lumet’s The Verdict is one of my all-time favorites. Discovering a story that combines my two interests—history and law—felt perfect for my directorial debut.
Others have tackled the Jallianwala Bagh story, including a recent series by Ram Madhvani. Did you worry about being repetitive?
I have great respect for Ram Madhvani as a filmmaker and, naturally, there was a concern about overlapping narratives since we both approached the same subject. However, our tales are presented through different mediums and have both resonated with audiences. I believe the more real-life stories are embraced in popular culture, the better.
Tell me about your impressive cast—were they all your first choices? How challenging was it to assemble the British cast?
I was fortunate to have an incredible cast, including Akshay Sir, Maddy Sir, Ananya Pandey, and Regina Cassandra—each contributing significantly to our story. Securing the British cast was crucial; we spent months holding auditions in the UK to finalize our selections. We were fortunate to land exceptional talents like Simon Paisley Day as General Dyer, along with Michael Parr, Alexandra Moloney, and Steven Hartley, all of whom are outstanding performers.
What was Karan Johar like as a producer? Did you have the freedom to execute your vision?
Karan is undoubtedly the best producer a director could ask for. As a first-time filmmaker, having someone like him who wholeheartedly supported my vision made a remarkable difference. I am incredibly grateful to him and Amrit for their unwavering encouragement of my dream.
What’s next for you in terms of directing?
I’m currently working on something new, but it’s too soon to share details.

Entertainment

Model Arrested After Customs Find Drugs in Luggage

Published

4 hours ago

June 12, 2026

Namma Kudla

Mumbai: Customs officials arrested former Mrs Kerala beauty pageant contestant Harsha Sunny (28) at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.

She was allegedly carrying hydroponic cannabis worth around ₹11.82 crore from Bangkok. Officials stopped her on suspicion and searched her luggage.

During the search, they found 12 packets containing the banned substance. Harsha Sunny was arrested under the NDPS Act and produced before a court.

The court sent her to judicial custody. Further investigation is underway. Harsha Sunny had participated in the Mrs Kerala beauty pageant in 2025.

Entertainment

Akshay Kumar Responds to ‘Flop Actor’ Remark in Welcome to The Jungle

Published

5 hours ago

June 12, 2026

Namma Kudla

Mumbai: Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar has responded to being called a “flop actor” in the upcoming film Welcome to The Jungle. He said the dialogue should be understood as part of the movie and not taken personally.

Speaking at the trailer launch event in Mumbai, Akshay explained that such dialogues are written to suit the story and the character. He said audiences should view them in the context of the film.

“We are not told to use such dialogues as taunts. When you watch a movie, you should understand it according to the character and the story. Thank you for feeling bad about it, but please do not take it so seriously,” Akshay said.

The trailer of Welcome To The Jungle runs for more than four minutes and features a mix of comedy, action, and adventure. Unlike the earlier films in the franchise, the story is set in a jungle.

Akshay plays a struggling actor who is trying to revive his career after a series of unsuccessful films. His fortunes appear to improve when he gets a new film opposite a successful actress, played by Jacqueline Fernandez.

However, the film shoot turns into a real-life adventure when the crew reaches a village near the border. The villagers mistakenly believe the actors are soldiers and ask them to protect the village from a dangerous gang led by Jackie Shroff.

The misunderstanding leads to several humorous situations, with Akshay’s character repeatedly reminding everyone that he is only an actor and not a real-life hero.

The film is directed by Ahmed Khan and produced by Firoz A. Nadiadwala, Rakesh Dang, and Vedant Vikaas Baali. Welcome To The Jungle is scheduled to release in theatres on June 26.

Entertainment

Isha Rikhi Confirms Marriage To Rapper Badshah

Published

24 hours ago

June 11, 2026

Namma Kudla

Mumbai: Punjabi actress and model Isha Rikhi has finally confirmed that she is married to rapper and singer Badshah.

The confirmation came during an Instagram “Ask Me Anything” session. Responding to a fan’s question, Isha said that she is married and jokingly asked her husband, Badshah, to answer the many questions people have about their relationship.

Another fan asked why she had never shared a photo with Badshah. In response, Isha posted a rare romantic picture of the couple, delighting their fans.

Rumours about their marriage began in March after photos and videos from a private wedding ceremony were shared on social media. The event was attended by close family members and friends.

While Badshah has not yet made an official statement, Isha’s comments have confirmed that the couple is married.