By leveraging Vodafone Idea’s digital reach and Birla Studios’ creative vision, the platform aims to build India’s most authentic and diverse acting talent pipeline, rooted in equal opportunity.
MUMBAI, 13 April 2026: Birla Studios, in collaboration with Vodafone Idea Limited, today announced the launch of Reel Se Real Star, a first-of-its-kind, mobile-first acting talent discovery platform designed to democratize entry into India’s entertainment industry.
With a vision to identify and launch , Reel Se Real Star removes traditional barriers of geography, access, and industry connections – opening the doors of cinema to anyone with a smartphone.
The property is built on a simple but powerful idea: talent can come from anywhere, and everyone deserves a stage.
Reflecting on the vision behind the platform, Ananya Birla, Founder and Chairperson of Birla Studios, noted: “Talent does not always get the opportunity it deserves— and that gap has kept far too many aspirants out of the spotlight. With the reach of digital infrastructure today, Birla Studios’ creative vision, and Vodafone Idea’s strong national footprint expanding this platform beyond conventional access points, we have the ability to create access at scale. We have a real opportunity to rethink how industries open their doors. ‘Reel Se Real Star’ is our attempt to do that by building a platform where anyone, from anywhere, can be discovered, and opportunity isn’t limited by circumstance. Because ultimately, everyone’s talent deserves a real shot at being seen.”
By leveraging Vodafone Idea’s digital reach and Birla Studios’ creative and cultural vision, the platform aims to build India’s most authentic and diverse acting talent pipeline, connecting untapped and deserving talent from across the country to mainstream entertainment.
Abhijit Kishore, CEO of Vodafone Idea, added, “Connectivity is most meaningful when it creates opportunity. ‘Reel Se Real Star’ breaks traditional industry barriers by bringing the audition room straight into the hands of the aspiring actors nationwide. Leveraging our robust network, expansive digital reach of over 200 million users and Birla Studios’ creative vision, we are democratizing talent discovery across India. Our goal is simple: to ensure potential isn’t limited by geography and can be discovered from anywhere – be it the bustling metro cities or remotest of the villages. We aren’t just building a platform, we’re giving millions a real shot at their dreams.
The nationwide initiative enables aspiring actors across India to showcase their craft through a fully digital, app and web-led journey. Participants can upload their auditions directly, eliminating the need for industry referrals.
At its core, Reel Se Real Star blends mass audience participation with expert mentorship as participants will be guided and evaluated by directors of repute and leading creative voices, ensuring credibility and craft excellence.
The winners will receive a breakthrough opportunity — a role in a feature film, working alongside an established director. The program will go live for participation on the Vi app in the coming months. For now, users can register their interest on Birla Studios’ or Vi’s websites.
About Birla Studios
Launched in 2026, Birla Studios is a film studio focused on building high-concept, commercial cinema. The studio is driven by a belief in stories that endure, prioritizing depth, craft, and long-term relevance. Genre-agnostic in approach, Birla Studios backs films with strong commercial appeal while nurturing promising talent, emerging voices and bold ideas. With an emphasis on scale, storytelling ambition, and thoughtful execution, the studio aims to create cinema that balances cultural specificity with universal reach.
About Vodafone Idea Limited
Vodafone Idea Limited is an Aditya Birla Group and Vodafone Group partnership. It is amongst India’s leading telecom service providers. The company holds a large spectrum portfolio including mid band 5G spectrum in 17 circles and mmWave spectrum in 16 circles. The Company provides Voice and Data services across 2G, 4G and 5G platforms and is expanding 5G services across 17 circles. To support the growing demand for data and voice, the Company is committed to delivering delightful customer experiences and contributing towards creating a truly ‘Digital India’ by enabling millions of citizens to connect and build a better tomorrow. The Company is developing infrastructure to introduce newer and smarter technologies, making both retail and enterprise customers future ready with innovative offerings, conveniently accessible through an ecosystem of digital channels as well as extensive on-ground presence. The Company’s equity shares are listed on National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the BSE in India. For more information, please visit: www.MyVi.in
In a remarkable display of stamina and artistry, she performed a full 3-hour live concert at Dubai Arena, captivating the audience with her energy, vocal mastery, and commanding stage presence—once again proving why she stands among the greatest in music history.
With this performance, she set a benchmark few can match, redefining dedication and passion for the craft.
That’s not just talent—it’s legacy in motion.
Legendary playback singer Asha Bhosle, revered as one of the most versatile and enduring voices in Indian music, has passed away at the age of 92.
She was admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital on Saturday after suffering cardiac and respiratory complications. Despite the best medical care, she could not be revived, leaving behind a timeless legacy that shaped and inspired generations of music lovers.
The on-screen pairing of Ishaan Khatter and Sara Arjun is fast becoming one of the most talked-about collaborations online right now. With the third episode of their ongoing digital series out, social media is buzzing, not just around the storyline, but the easy, natural chemistry the two are bringing to the screen. Titled A Perfect Match, the series is a six-part digital micro-drama conceptualised in collaboration with Zoya Akhtar’s Tiger Telly. The campaign brings together storytelling and technology through a light, episodic love story that seamlessly weaves search into everyday situations.
What’s really getting people talking, though, is the growing excitement around seeing Ishaan Khatter and Sara Arjun together beyond just this series. Across platforms, viewers aren’t just enjoying the pairing; they’re already rooting to see the two share the big screen in a full-length film. Comments like “Really need to see them on the big screen now, would just look great in a movie together” reflect a wider sentiment, with fans hoping this collaboration extends beyond the current format. At the same time, their on-screen dynamic has clearly struck a chord. Audiences have been calling the pairing “fresh” and “perfect,” with reactions like “their chemistry >>>”, “what a vibe between these two,” and “already obsessed with this collab.” Others have echoed how natural they feel together, adding “need more scenes asap!” and “can’t wait to see them share the screen,” reinforcing just how strongly the duo is connecting with viewers.
With each episode, A Perfect Match is doing more than just telling a story, it’s building genuine excitement around its lead pair. If the current response is anything to go by, Ishaan Khatter and Sara Arjun have clearly struck a chord, and audiences are already looking forward to seeing much more of them together.
The 7th death anniversary of film producer and social worker Sardar Singh Suri was observed with deep respect and dignity. Known for giving Prem Chopra his break in the film industry, Suri was fondly remembered by thousands of devotees at Four Bungalows Gurudwara Sahib, who gathered to pay their heartfelt tributes.
The occasion featured soulful bhajan-kirtan, ardas, and a grand langar, which over 9,000 people attended, reflecting the spirit of devotion and selfless service.
One Film, Many Honors: An Incomplete Glory
The Punjabi film “Aeh Dharti Punjab Di”, produced by Sardar Singh Suri, was not only a superhit but also gained significant recognition in its time. Directed by Satyajeet Pal, the film featured notable actors like Prem Chopra, Jabeen Jalil, Nimmi, and Madan Puri.
The music of the film was enriched by the legendary voices of Mohammed Rafi and Mahendra Kapoor.
Significantly, Mohammed Rafi, Prem Chopra, Jabeen Jalil, and Sardar Singh Suri himself were honored with awards for this film, marking its success and cultural impact during that era.
The film beautifully portrayed Hindu-Sikh unity and deep friendship, featuring the Punjabi version of the iconic song “Mere Desh Ki Dharti Sona Ugle,” which was later adapted into Hindi cinema. Despite its immense success, Suri did not receive financial benefits as his partners secured the rights, pushing him back into hardship.
A Journey from Struggle to Service
Sardar Singh Suri’s life is a powerful story of resilience. Displaced from Rawalpindi after Partition, he moved to Ambala and later arrived in Mumbai in 1963, where he began working as a taxi driver.
After taking a bold step into film production in 1965 and facing setbacks, he returned to driving taxis. In 1967, a turning point came when he met Sardar Dilip Singh, who introduced him to the construction field. Eventually, his path led him toward a greater purpose – social service.
From Gurudwara to Society – A Living Example of Service
What began in 1967 as a modest 10×10 structure has today evolved into a major center of service and devotion:
Around 2,000 people served langar daily
Over 5,000 devotees on Sundays
Education for 600+ underprivileged children
200–300 students receiving free education
Equal opportunities for children of all religions
From distributing 10,000–15,000 meals daily during the COVID-19 pandemic to actively helping flood victims, the Gurudwara has stood at the forefront of humanitarian efforts.
A Legacy That Lives On
After his passing in 2019, his son Jaspal Singh Suri has continued this legacy, while his grandson Maninder Singh Suri is also actively involved in carrying forward the mission.
What was once a personal vision has now become a collective movement of service, unity, and compassion.
An Inspiration That Will Endure
Sardar Singh Suri’s life stands as a testament that true struggle never goes in vain. He not only introduced new talent to the film industry but also established a powerful model of social service that continues to inspire generations.
The massive gathering on his death anniversary echoes one truth:
Some people may leave, but their values and service live on forever.
In an evening filled with melody, rhythm, and heartfelt emotions, renowned flutist Naveen Kumar unveiled his much-awaited debut book “The Journey of Bansuri,” at the prestigious Whistling Woods International. The book was launched by legendary filmmaker Subhash Ghai, in the presence of celebrated singer Sukhwinder Singh and world-famous percussionist Sivamani.
The event resonated like a beautifully composed raga, blending words, music, and memories. Adding a magical touch to the launch, Naveen Kumar delivered a mesmerizing live performance on the bansuri, captivating the audience with soulful renditions of iconic tracks like “Tu Hi Re”, the timeless melody from Hero, and a piece from Dhurandhar 2. Each note flowed like poetry, echoing his deep-rooted connection with the instrument.
The highlight of the evening was an electrifying jugalbandi, where Sivamani’s pulsating beats met Naveen Kumar’s melodious flute, creating a rhythmic dialogue that left the audience spellbound. The crescendo peaked as Sukhwinder Singh joined in for an energetic rendition of “Kishna”, turning the stage into a vibrant symphony of sound and soul.
Speaking on the occasion, Naveen Kumar reflected on his journey, saying, “This book is not just written – it is lived and experienced. It comes from years of self-learning, experimentation, and a deep connection with the bansuri.” His words struck a chord with many aspiring artists present at the event.
Sharing his thoughts at the launch, Subhash Ghai said, “True artistry comes from passion and perseverance, and Naveen Kumar’s journey is a beautiful example of that. ‘The Journey of Bansuri’ is not just a book, but an inspiration for every artist who believes in following their inner calling.”
Born into a humble family rooted in creativity and spirituality, Naveen Kumar credited his late parents for shaping his artistic sensibilities. “I feel blessed to have inherited their artistic spirit,” he shared emotionally. He also expressed gratitude to his wife Kiran and children, Rahael Naveena and Jean Naveen, for being his constant support system.
The evening also acknowledged the contribution of Smt. Usha Srinivasan Shahane, a distinguished counsellor and educator with over four decades of experience, who played a crucial role in proofreading and editing the book. Naveen Kumar extended heartfelt thanks, stating that the book would not have been possible without her unwavering support.
Special mention was made of internationally acclaimed publisher and author Akash Bhabat, who encouraged and embraced Naveen Kumar’s debut work with warmth and belief.
In a deeply emotional moment, Naveen Kumar paid tribute to his manasik guru, Subhash Ghai, saying, “His unconditional love for genuine artists is truly inspiring. Despite having no prior connection, he has always supported and encouraged me with great generosity.”
The event concluded on a high note, immersing the audience in a harmonious blend of storytelling, music, and inspiration – perfectly capturing the essence of “The Journey of Bansuri,” a book that celebrates not just music, but the soul behind it.
Actor Adivi Sesh created a wave of excitement in Gorakhpur as he joined hands with Bhojpuri superstar Pawan Singh to launch their much-awaited groovy track Touch Buddy. Marking a historic first, a Telugu superstar and a Bhojpuri icon shared the stage together, delivering a high-energy musical collaboration that has already begun trending across platforms. The grand launch event witnessed an overwhelming turnout, with massive crowds gathering to catch a glimpse of the two stars, turning the occasion into a celebratory spectacle.
The electrifying atmosphere in Gorakhpur reflected the growing buzz around Touch Buddy, a song that blends regional influences with a contemporary, foot-tapping vibe. Adding to its wide appeal, the track has also been released in Telugu, ensuring it resonates with audiences across regions and languages. Fans were seen cheering, dancing, and celebrating the collaboration, underlining the song’s instant connect and viral potential.
For Adivi Sesh, the response was nothing short of emotional. With his upcoming film Dacoit gearing up for its release on April 10, the actor expressed how the love from North Indian audiences has further strengthened his confidence and excitement.
Sharing his thoughts, Adivi Sesh said, “Launching ‘Touch Buddy’ in Gorakhpur with Pawan Singh ji has been an incredibly special experience. The energy of the crowd was simply unforgettable. I’ve always believed that cinema and music go beyond language, and seeing a Telugu actor and a Bhojpuri superstar come together and receive so much love proves just that. The response from the audience here has truly overwhelmed me and boosted my confidence, especially with Dacoit releasing on April 10. I’m grateful that the North Indian audience has embraced this collaboration with so much warmth.”
The collaboration between Adivi Sesh and Pawan Singh stands as a testament to the growing pan-India appeal of regional artists coming together to create something fresh and exciting. As Touch Buddy continues to trend and win hearts, all eyes are now on Dacoit, with fans eagerly awaiting to see Sesh on the big screen once again.
After making a mark with projects like Border 2 and Tere Ishk Mein, Paramvir Singh Cheema is now stepping into a full-fledged lead role in Punjabi cinema with Pitt Siyapa, starring opposite Sonam Bajwa. Slated to release on May 1st, the film’s teaser has just dropped, offering a glimpse into what promises to be an unconventional and entertaining ride.
Known for completely immersing himself into his characters, Cheema has built a reputation for disappearing so deeply into his roles that he’s often unrecognizable to audiences. With Pitt Siyapa, he brings that same commitment to a genre that thrives on relatability, humor, and rooted storytelling.
This time, however, audiences will see a refreshing shift — Cheema steps into a fun, breezy avatar as an NRI character, bringing in a lighter, more playful energy. The teaser even offers a glimpse of him dancing, hinting at a side of the actor that audiences haven’t quite seen before.
A refreshing blend of comedy and drama, Pitt Siyapa taps into a space that Punjabi audiences have long loved — narratives that are both entertaining and emotionally resonant.
Sharing the teaser, Cheema wrote, “Pitt Siyapa Teaser out now. Funeral ya full-on business? Dekho hun te dasso – ki lagda ae? Not your usual story, not your usual film.” The intriguing line hints at the film’s quirky premise and offbeat tone.
Calling it a “special project straight from the heart,” Cheema also expressed gratitude towards the team for believing in his vision, marking this as a significant milestone in his journey as an actor. The film also holds added significance for him as it is rooted in Punjab, making it a deeply personal and meaningful project.
With a compelling premise, a fresh pairing, and a new side to Cheema’s screen presence, Pitt Siyapa is set to bring something exciting to the Punjabi film landscape this summer.
Priyamani and Ashlesha Thakur – the reel mom-daughter duo who gave us some of the most relatable family moments on screen – have suddenly taken the Internet by storm again.
But this time there is no drama, no emotional moments. And also no context.
The two appear to be in a standoff, with Ashlesha trying very hard to convince Priyamani about something & Priyamani vigorously refusing.
Naturally, the Internet has questions.
Was this a sneak peek from a new season? Are they shooting something new? What does Ashlesha want?
Whatever the story, the clip has the Internet fully invested already. Because when Priyamani and Ashlesha show up together, a WOW moment cannot be far behind.
Watch the full video now link
The show blends high-energy workouts with candid, no-filter conversations offering a fresh take on fitness and celebrity content
Actor, Singer, and Fitness Diva Sophie Choudry is all set to launch her latest digital show, “Famously Fit With Sophie,” exclusively on Amazon MX Player. The show brings together fitness and candid celebrity conversations in a format that is energetic, engaging, and refreshingly real.
Moving beyond traditional interview formats, Famously Fit With Sophie places conversations right in the middle of workouts creating a space where celebrities are seen at their most unfiltered. Each episode features Sophie working out alongside some of Bollywood’s most loved faces, including Kriti Sanon, Malaika Arora, and several other leading celebrities.
The recently released teaser offers a glimpse into the show’s tone is fun, fast-paced, and authentic where it feels less like an interview and more like two friends working out, chatting, and sharing real moments.
The recently released teaser offers a glimpse into how the show’s tone is fun, fast-paced, and authentic, highlighting how fitness becomes the backdrop for meaningful and often unexpected conversations.
Speaking about the show, Sophie Choudry said, “Fitness has always been a huge part of my life, but I’ve always believed that the best conversations happen when you’re simply being yourself. When you’re working out, there’s no filter and that’s what makes these conversations so real. With this show, I wanted to bring together fitness and honesty in a way that feels natural and relatable.”
The show taps into the growing cultural shift where fitness is no longer just a routine, but a lifestyle and a form of self-expression. By blending sweat and secrets, the format brings out a side of celebrities that audiences rarely get to see.
With its mix of high-energy workouts, humour, and candid storytelling, the show offers a fresh, behind-the-scenes look at celebrities not just as performers, but as individuals navigating their own fitness journeys and personal lives.
Famously Fit With Sophie will stream exclusively on Amazon MX Player, catering to audiences looking for content that is both aspirational and entertaining.
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