Panaji, Goa | 26 November 2025

The Maharashtra Film, Stage & Cultural Development Corporation Limited (MFSCDCL) marked a powerful presence at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI 2025) in Goa, emphatically positioning Maharashtra as India’s undisputed filmmaking capital and an emerging global production hub. During the dedicated panel discussion titled “Maharashtra as Film Destination: Opportunities and Insights”, MFSCDCL showcased the state’s filmmaker-friendly ecosystem built on three strong pillars: India’s fastest single-window clearance system, one of the country’s most generous incentive packages for Marathi cinema, and world-class infrastructure backed by future-ready initiatives.

Maharashtra’s online portal www.filmcell.maharashtra.gov.in integrates 14 government departments and 105 sub-departments, delivering all shooting permissions within a strict 7-working-day timeline, with automatic deemed approval in case of delays, making bureaucratic hurdles virtually non-existent. The state continues to lead in supporting regional cinema by offering grants of up to ₹40 lakh for top-scoring Marathi films, doubling the amount for National Award winners, providing 100% entertainment tax exemption across Maharashtra, concessional rates at state-owned locations including the iconic Film City, and a special ₹5 lakh grant for women directors of ‘A’ category films or national/international award winners.

Further strengthening its appeal, the 521-acre Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagari in Mumbai offers diverse indoor and outdoor sets, while a state-of-the-art AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming & Comics) centre is being established within Film City. Strategic tie-ups with FTII and other premier institutes are creating certified skill-development programmes to build a highly skilled local workforce.

Speaking at IFFI 2025, Swati Mhase Patil, Managing Director, MFSCDCL, stated, “IFFI 2025 is an important platform for Maharashtra to present its creative strength and evolving film ecosystem to the world. We aim to empower filmmakers with the best infrastructure, progressive policies, and a globally competitive environment.” Maharashtra warmly invites producers, directors, and creative professionals from India and abroad to experience unparalleled opportunities in the heart of Indian cinema. For permissions and incentives, visit www.filmcell.maharashtra.gov.in or write to filmcell@maharashtra.gov.in.

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Navi Mumbai, July 7, 2025

Veteran actor and Padma Shri awardee Ashok Saraf recently praised Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, calling him a "remarkable art lover". Saraf made this statement while speaking at the ‘Kalasenvak Sanman Sohala’ (Art Service Felicitation Ceremony), jointly organized by the Marathi Natya Parishad, Navi Mumbai branch, and the Bal Rangabhoomi Parishad.

During the event, Ashok Saraf and renowned calligrapher Padma Shri Achyut Palav were specially honored for their contributions to art and culture. While expressing his thoughts after receiving the award, Saraf acknowledged Shinde's deep appreciation for the arts and his continuous support for cultural initiatives.

“Eknath Shinde is a true connoisseur of art,” said Saraf, highlighting the Deputy CM’s consistent encouragement toward the Marathi theatre and cultural ecosystem.

The event saw participation from several notable figures from the art and theatre world, celebrating the legacy and contributions of these cultural icons.

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Anant Mahadevan, the maker of "Phule" has requested Brahmin community to watch the film before forming an opinion. In an exclusive conversation with IANS, Anant Mahadevan opened up about his film, it's content and the changes suggested by the censor board.

Director Ananth Mahadevan's biographical drama "Phule" is based on the lives of social reformers Jyotirao Govindrao Phule and his wife Savitribai Phule. Ahead of its release, the film has been facing opposition from certain sections of the Brahmin community. After seeing the trailer of the film, a few members of the Brahmin community claimed that they had been portrayed in a "poor light".

The maker of "Phule", Anant Mahadevan has now requested the Brahmin community to first see the film and then give their opinion. He added that they have adhered to all the amendments suggested by the censor board.

Sharing his views on the changes suggested by the censor board, Mahadevan told IANS, "They were probably over cautious, and they had certain recommendations, certain tweaking which they wanted us to do- it was not really cut as such."

He asserted that even with these changes, the film does not lose its impact. "We adhered to that because we want to go by the law, but the only thing is that we have become a little over-sensitive, even if those words were retained, even if those points were retained, I don't think anyone would have objected to it, but somewhere we had to soften it, but let me assure you this will not reduce the impact of the film."

The makers were asked to remove terms such as ‘Mang’, ‘Mahar’, and ‘Peshwai’ from the film. Additionally, the visual of a ‘man carrying a broom’ was asked to be replaced with ‘boys throwing cow dung balls at Savitribai’, and the line ‘3000 saal purani gulami’ was changed to ‘Kai saal purani’, among other things. Inviting everyone to catch "Phule" on 25 April, the maker said that they have got a clean U certificate from the censor board.

He added that the CBFC itself has endorsed the film and said that the film should be seen by the younger generation because Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule started off in their teen a revolution that still continues. The project will see Pratik Gandhi as Jyotirao Phule, and Patralekha as Savitribai Phule.

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Kartik Aaryan and Sreeleela’s first look from Anurag Basu’s upcoming romantic drama has been revealed, causing excitement among fans. The actor shared a short video on social media on February 15, showcasing his intense new avatar.

The teaser features Kartik Aaryan as a rockstar with long hair and a thick beard, portraying a heartbroken lover. He is seen singing Tu Meri Zindagi Hai while playing the guitar in front of a large audience. The video also highlights his romantic chemistry with Sreeleela, which has become a major talking point online.

Kartik Aaryan confirmed that the untitled film is set to release on Diwali 2025. This announcement has sparked anticipation, with many fans predicting it to be a blockbuster. Social media users expressed excitement, comparing it to Aashiqui 3 and praising Kartik’s transformation.

The film marks Kartik’s first collaboration with Anurag Basu and features music by Pritam. The director is also working on Metro... In Dino, which stars actors like Sara Ali Khan, Aditya Roy Kapur, and Pankaj Tripathi.

With its emotional storyline, powerful performances, and soulful music, the film is expected to be a major highlight of Bollywood’s 2025 lineup. Fans are eagerly waiting to see Kartik Aaryan return to the romantic genre that he is best known for.

Image Credits: Youtube

I was genuinely looking forward to the Pune International Film Festival, the lineup of films seemed promising. More than anything, the idea of spending an entire day in a theatre always excites me. So when I saw the event schedule, Gloria! immediately caught my attention. I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to catch the opening film, but after watching the trailer, I knew I had to. That being said, I went in with excitement and left with mixed feelings, Gloria! dazzles with its visuals, music, and period authenticity, but stumbles in character depth and narrative consistency.

Cast and Crew

Gloria! marks the directorial debut of Italian actor-singer-songwriter Margherita Vicario, who brings her musical background into a film that blends period drama with contemporary feminist undertones. The screenplay, co-written by Vicario and Anita Rivaroli, adds a playful, modernized energy to its historical setting. The film features a cast led by Galatea Bellugi as Teresa, the "mute" gifted yet overlooked musician, alongside Carlotta Gamba as the ambitious first violin Lucia. Veronica Lucchesi, Maria Vittoria Dallasta, and Sara Mafodda round out the ensemble of young women at the Sant’Ignazio Institute. Paolo Rossi plays the imperious chapel master Perlina, while Vincenzo Crea takes on the role of Cristiano, Perlina's covert gay lover. Behind the scenes, the film boasts elegant production design by Luca Servino and Susanna Abenavoli, and period-appropriate yet subtly contemporary costumes by Mary Montalto.

Plot

Set in early 19th-century Italy, Gloria! unfolds within the Sant’Ignazio Institute, a church-run refuge for young women, blending elements of an orphanage, a convent, and a music school. The story follows Teresa, a mute servant girl whose prodigious musical talent remains hidden beneath her lowly status. When she discovers a neglected piano in the basement, her natural brilliance emerges, drawing the attention of Lucia and other young musicians. Meanwhile, the strict and creatively stagnant chapel master Perlina struggles to compose an original piece for an upcoming visit by Pope Pius VII. As tensions rise between traditional and rebellious musical sensibilities, Teresa’s unconventional melodies—infused with anachronistic pop influences—ignite a quiet revolution. The film builds toward a climactic performance where the young women challenge societal norms, creating a spectacle that both enthralls and scandalizes their audience.

I love a good feminist film, and if it happens to be a period piece, that is an added treat. When I watch a period film, I am drawn to more than just the storyline and performances. There is an entire world to admire. In that sense, Gloria! delivers spectacularly, particularly in its costume design. The colors, ensembles, and hairstyles all work together beautifully, creating an immersive and well-researched period aesthetic. The film captures the essence of its time through its detailed costumes and props. However, there are moments where the musical falters in its rhythm.

At its core, Gloria! is a tribute to women composers who were robbed of their artistic recognition. The film does a great job of evoking excitement and euphoria, especially in its climactic musical symphony, which makes up for some of its uneven pacing. It also left me wondering what if a group of Venetian girls had composed anachronistic pop music. Where would we be today? That thought is intriguing, though at times, the film’s hypothesis risks overshadowing its deeper themes, making it feel too contemporary to be entirely convincing.

Performance wise, the cast including Galatea Bellugi, Carlotta Gamba, Veronica Lucchesi, Maria Vittoria Dallasta, Sara Mafodda, and Paolo Rossi delivers well, though some characters feel underdeveloped. This lack of depth affects the emotional connection crucial for a film with strong feminist undertones. Certain subplots, like the romance between Master Perlina and Cristiano played by Vincenzo Crea, felt unnecessary or caricatured, particularly in its portrayal of a queer character with little backstory or development.

Despite these shortcomings, Gloria! delivers an exhilarating experience driven by its electrifying soundtrack and visually stunning execution. The background score keeps the energy alive, even if the emotional weight of the narrative does not always land. Margherita Vicario's directorial debut shines in many ways, making for an engaging, dopamine inducing ride, provided you can overlook its occasional missteps.

Direction : Laxman Utekar

Screenplay : Laxman Utekar, Rishi Virmani, Kaustubh Savarkar, Unman Bankar, Omkar Mahajan.

Dialogues: Rishi Virmani

Cinematography: Sourabh Goswami

Editing: Manish Pradhan

Music: A.R Rahman

Makeup: Mahendra More,, Prem Salunkhe, 

Hair Style: Avinash Jadhav, Densi Sharma.

Production Company: Maddock Films.

Cast: Vicky Kaushal, Akshay Khanna, Rashmika Mandana, Ashutosh Rana, Divya Datta, Vinit Kumar Singh, Diana Penty, Sarang Sathe, etc.

Chhaava Translated as Lion’s Cub is a Hindi-language historical action film based on the life of Maratha king Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj(portrayed by Vicky Kaushal) and his quest, sacrifice and struggle as a Chatrapati against internal and external forces, especially against Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. The film is an adaptation of the Marathi novel by Shivaji Sawant of the same name. 

The film gathered a lot of hype since its announcement and grabbed even more eyeballs since its trailer was released with its adrenaline-rushing dialogues and visuals. In reality, the film as an experience is visually brilliant but has many flaws.

Visually the film is brilliant, the cinematography by Saurabh Goswami will hold your attention and successfully does it throughout.

 Costume designer Sheetal Sharma has done a brilliant job with the looks of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, and the rest of the star cast and extras teleport you to that era. Prosthetic Designer Preeti Singh D’souza is the real gem of the film when you witness the climax.

The performance will be remembered for a long time because of Vicky Kaushal as Chatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, Ashutosh Rana as Sarlashkar Hambirao Mohite, and Vineet Kumar Singh as Kavi Kalash. But the biggest dud was the performance of Rashmika Mandana playing Maharani Yesubai, mainly due to her accent, she looked underconfident throughout her screen presence.

The biggest flaw of the film was its editing, it was sloppy and it could distract you from the situation, also the continuity was lost in some places even in action sequences. Also some places things do not make a lot of sense and you feel it could have been better.

Talking about the flaws the first half was kind of slow and really couldn't establish characters and situations that effectively and that's where the direction took a back seat. Like the flawed editing, the film’s music composed by A.R Rahman was a bit disappointing and couldn't elevate the first half. However, the second half offers a lot in all the departments that were missing in the first half of the film.

In conclusion, the slow first half, messy editing, the Background score in the first half, and many such things could disappoint you but I would say that the second half saves the film, still providing an experience of a historical film probably leaving theaters with a heavy heart, smile, and some tears.

The makers of Pintu Ki Pappi have released the second song from the film, Taaka Taaki, after the success of Beautiful Sajna. The romantic comedy has been in the spotlight since its trailer launch, and the new song is expected to add to the excitement.

The song has been composed by Nitin ‘Nitz’ Arora (DR NITZ) and written by lyricist Raman Raghuvanshi. It is sung by Sunidhi Chauhan, promising an energetic and engaging track. The song features lead actors Shushant Thamke and Vidhii, adding to the film’s youthful and vibrant appeal.

Film Details and Release Date

Produced by Vidhi Acharya’s V2S Productions under the banner of Mythri Movie Makers, Pintu Ki Pappi is directed by Shiv Hare. The film stars a mix of established and emerging talents, including Vijay Raaz, Murali Sharma, Sunil Pal, Ali Asgar, Puja Banerjee, and Ganesh Acharya. Scheduled for a global theatrical release on March 21, 2025, the film is expected to be a fun-filled romantic comedy.

With Taaka Taaki now available, the film’s music album is gaining attention. The audience response to the first song was positive, and the latest track is expected to continue the trend. More updates about the film are likely as the release date approaches.


Image Credits: Youtube

Filmmaker Wes Anderson is set to release his next film, The Phoenician Scheme, in 2025. Known for his unique storytelling and meticulous visual style, Anderson’s latest project is generating excitement among fans. The film will see a limited theatrical release on May 30, 2025, before expanding globally on June 6.

A Story of Family and Unexpected Twists

Like many of Anderson’s films, The Phoenician Scheme blends humor, symmetry, and emotional depth. The plot revolves around Zsa-zsa Korda, one of Europe’s richest men, played by Benicio del Toro. His life takes an unexpected turn as his daughter, portrayed by Mia Threapleton, forms an unusual bond with a quirky tutor, played by Michael Cera.

A Stellar Ensemble Cast

The film boasts an impressive lineup of actors, including Tom Hanks, Bryan Cranston, Riz Ahmed, Scarlett Johansson, Benedict Cumberbatch, Jeffrey Wright, Richard Ayoade, Rupert Friend, and Hope Davis. Given Anderson’s history of crafting memorable ensemble performances, the film is expected to deliver another masterclass in acting.

Focus Features, which previously collaborated with Anderson on Asteroid City and Moonrise Kingdom, is handling distribution. Universal Pictures will manage international releases. Anderson co-wrote the screenplay with longtime collaborator Roman Coppola, ensuring that the film retains his signature storytelling style. The production took place in Germany at Studio Babelsberg, with Anderson’s American Empirical Pictures and Indian Paintbrush overseeing the project.

What to Expect

Anderson’s films are known for their distinct visual language, intricate set designs, and charmingly eccentric characters. With The Phoenician Scheme, fans can expect another cinematic experience filled with whimsical storytelling and heartfelt moments. As the release date approaches, more details about the film’s themes and artistic elements are likely to emerge.

Image Credits: IMDb

Celebrating the 15th anniversary of his 2010 film My Name Is Khan, director Karan Johar shared a heartfelt tribute, calling it more than just a film. Starring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, the movie remains one of Bollywood’s most impactful dramas, known for its powerful storytelling and social message.

Taking to Instagram on February 12, Karan Johar posted a video montage featuring memorable scenes from the film. The clip included the words, “An extraordinary journey of an ordinary man that ignited hope, harmony, love in millions.” Accompanying the video, he shared his thoughts on the film’s lasting impact.

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A Journey Beyond Cinema

Karan recalled how the making of My Name Is Khan was a deeply emotional experience. He spoke about the passion and challenges involved in bringing the story to life, highlighting the purpose that drove the team throughout the process. Over the years, the film has continued to strike a chord with audiences, a realization that became more evident to him as people shared their stories and experiences.

The filmmaker noted that even after 15 years, the movie’s dialogues, music, and message of love and resilience remain deeply relevant. He expressed that My Name Is Khan was never just a film—it carried a powerful sentiment and stood as a reminder that humanity transcends all boundaries.

A Heartfelt Thank You

Karan Johar extended his gratitude to fans for embracing Rizwan’s journey and making it their own. His post received an outpouring of love, with many fans sharing how the film moved them. Some called it a masterpiece, while others hoped for a re-release or a reunion of Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol on screen.

The anniversary post reaffirmed the lasting legacy of My Name Is Khan, proving that its message continues to inspire audiences across generations.

Image Credits: IMDb

The Mehta Boys, a movie directed by Boman Irani, marks his directorial debut. The film explores a complex yet not-so-common relationship between a father and son, featuring Boman Irani as Shiv Mehta and Avinash Tiwary as Amay Mehta, released on Amazon Prime Video on February 7, 2025.

The film's central theme was how the passing of an important person, rather a life partner, feels—not in our early years but in our mid-60s. The central idea of this film brings fresh new themes. It also shows the generational clashes between contrasting parts, like a jigsaw puzzle—a bit complicated. There was a comparison between ambition and contentment, then working it all together in the end.

From what I captured, The Mehta Boys seemed to delve into the relationship, but what intrigued me the most was how the film brings warmth between scenes. The film brings a fresh storytelling perspective. Family dynamics are shown extensively.

This film also explores the very inspiring thought of the fear of being average or not good at all, which is very common in today's generation. Every artist, mainly the younger generation, struggles with getting accepted as anomalies. Normally, that emotion was shown beautifully in the film. I truly felt like the film itself was whispering in my ear that sometimes, it's not just important to address the issue but also to work upon it. Just like what the protagonist did. Even though carrying self-doubt for so long, he won over the war with himself, which is honestly motivating.

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However, the dialogues did not feel like they had much weight or power. The cinematography of the film does delve perfectly into the narrative but also subtly highlights the voices of opinions, perhaps different ones. The color palette was another noticeable thing; it used warm and earthy colors between scenes.

It also showed the generation gap of contrasting thoughts between both characters, like a comparison and contentment.

One of the most beautifully interpreted relationships that the film spoke of was the one between Shiv and Amay's partner. It was unobtrusively moving yet very deep, without forced acceptance or exaggerated conflict, but naturally and organically developing into one that felt believable. Shiv is a product of another generation with a different cultural context and past, and that defined his early perceptions of Amay's partner, as set by societal imperatives and losses. But as the movie went along, their words became warmer and were filled with unspoken understanding rather than mere words. It was heartwarming to see how love and companionship need not be directly said; sometimes, they can be found in quiet gestures, in shared silences, and in the simple act of listening.

My favorite scene was the one with the balcony. It wasn't just a conversation; it felt more than that. It was realization—a realization of time passing, grief, loss, and a slight bit of disagreement. Shiv, with his life experiences, saw things from a different perspective, while, on the other hand, Amay saw things with passion yet with societal pressure. Even though there was a spark of ideation, it was later used by the protagonist.

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The only negative thing in the film was the slow pace of emotional drama at the end. It also took time in the reflective silence of the character, Amay. Even though it takes its time to build emotional momentum towards the end, The Mehta Boys leaves a significant impression. It might not be merely about a father and son reconnecting; it delves into the heaviness of time, the anxiety of mediocrity, and the quiet struggles we endure within ourselves. The film refrains from offering grand conclusions or dramatic changes—it simply portrays life in its raw, chaotic beauty. While a few scenes felt prolonged, the emotional richness, genuine performances, and layered storytelling make it a film that deserves your attention. As the credits roll, it prompts a moment of quiet introspection—about relationships, regrets, and the understanding that sometimes, acceptance is the only form of closure we truly need.

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All in all, the performances, emotional depth, and the shift in stages of the father-son relationship make the film worth watching.

Image credits: IMDb, instagram