Where: 1078-1082, Mayfair Venue, High Road, Romford RM6 4BD
What: The legendary Pakistani folk singer Attaullah Khan Esakhelvi continues his UK tour and will perform the greatest hits from his very distinguished career. Tickets include a VIP meet and great option.
What: Ketan Kansara headlines an unforgettable evening celebrating the music of Indian cinema from the 70s, 80s and 90s. He will be accompanied by the band D26, along with fellow singers Anuradha Shukla, Sharon Smith and Manisha Sharma
www.becktheatre.org.uk
VOICES FROM THE KILN
When: Tuesday January 18
Where: Chichester Festival Theatre, Oaklands Way, Chichester PO19 6AP
What: A performance that interweaves Bharatanatyam dance, film, text, and clay to expose the fragile edges of memory that unearth fragments of lives, both real and imagined, which silently leave their imprint on clay and the human body.
www.cft.org.uk
Soumik Datta
SOUMIK DATTA: ARTS RISING
When: Thursday January 20
Where: Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX
What: Music maestro Soumik Datta pairs an interactive film with musicians, dancers, and the sound of his sarod in an energising and uplifting show that explores the meeting point between the climate emergency and social injustice.
www.southbankcentre.co.uk
EVENTS
UPLIFTING KUNDALINI YOGA & MEDITATION CLASSES
When: Mondays, January 10, 17, 24 and 31
Where: Telegraph Hill Centre, Kitto Road, London SE14 5TY
What: Public Kundalini yoga classes to work on your energy through physical movement and meditation, as taught by Yogi Bhajan. No previous experience with kundalini or any other types of yoga is needed. The class is open to all ability levels and students are asked to bring their own mats.
What: A family friendly dinner and dance headlined by singers Malkit Singh and Juggy D. The evening also includes a DJ, performance by dhol group Eternal Taal, three-course meal and giveaways.
www.eventbrite.com
BOLLYWOOD CHARITY NIGHT
When: Saturday January 8
Where: The Florrie, 377 Mill Street, Liverpool L8 4RF
What: A Bollywood themed charity with music, dance, and authentic Indian cuisine. Those attending are encouraged to wear traditional outfits and all proceeds go to the Liverpool Women’s Hospital.
What: Formal event aiming to provide a platform for people seeking partners in marriage. Advisors will be available to support and assist individuals who feel shy or unable to initiate discussions with others.
www.eventbrite.com
TEA AND TOUR
When: Saturday January 22
Where: The London Muslim Centre, 46 Whitechapel Road, London E1 1JX
What: Free event open to all faiths that includes tea, snacks, and a tour of one of Europe’s biggest mosques. There will also be a chance to view exhibitions on the Islamic faith.
www.eventbrite.com
THEATRE
LIFE OF PI
When: Until Sunday February 27, 2022
Where: Wyndham’s Theatre, 32-36 Charing Cross Road, London WC2H 0DA
What: A theatre play based on Yann Martel’s Man Booker Prize-winning novel of the same name, which revolves around the sole human survivor of a shipwreck stuck on a lifeboat with a Bengal tiger, as they battle to survive an epic voyage across the ocean. The cast includes Hiran Abeysekera, Mina Anwar, Nicholas Khan, Payal Mistry and Raj Ghatak.
www.londontheatre.co.uk
SLEEPING BEAUTY
When: Until Sunday January 16
Where: The Alhambra Theatre, Morley Street, Bradford BD7 1AJ
What: Pantomime headlined by popular television personality Dr Ranj Singh and comedian Billy Pearce. The familiar fairy tale is given an interesting twist in the family-friendly show filled with laughs.
What: Stand-up comedy special headlined by top talents Anuvab Pal, Kane Brown, Esther Manito and Guz Khan. Expect plenty of jokes and lots of laughter.
What: Acclaimed stand-up comedian Sukh Ojla continues her solo tour of the UK with her show, where she talks about subjects including mental illness, moving back in with her parents, identity and living a double life.
www.luventertainment.co.uk
AHIR SHAH: DRESS
When: Thursday January 27
Where: Arts at the Old Fire Station, 40 George Street, Oxford OX1 2AQ
What: The double Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee returns with a new stand-up show about significance, insignificance, and scurvy.
www. oldfirestation.org.uk
NISH KUMAR – YOUR POWER, YOUR CONTROL
When: Wednesday February 2
Where: Bonus Arena, Myton Street, Hull HU1 2PS
What: The popular stand-up comedian embarks on a brand-new stand-up show that tackles important subjects such as political upheaval, Covid, current uncertainty and why he is taking it personally.
What: A brand-new stand-up show with the popular comedian about the hair we want, the friends we have, and living the vast difference between virus and viral.
www.sindhuvee.com
CLASSES
FULL DAY SIMPLE INDIAN COOKERY COURSE
When: Saturday January 8
Where: Hounslow, London
What: A trip to the local Indian shop to learn about ingredients will be followed by a practical hands-on cooking course learning how to make a variety of Indian dishes, along with learning how to use spices to add a depth of flavour.
www.cookingwithmonisha.com
BENGALI COOKERY CLASS WITH AKLIMA
When: Tuesday January 11
Where: Mercato Metropolitano, 42 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6DR
What: Cookery class will see chef Aklima teach some of her favourite Bengali dishes followed by a sit-down meal. The in-person class is for 12 participants only and they will be emailed the recipes afterwards.
Abhishek Bachchan credits Aishwarya Rai for taking the lead in daughter Aaradhya’s upbringing.
Says Aaradhya, now 13, has no phone and stays away from social media.
Calls Aishwarya “selfless” for prioritising parenting over everything else.
Slams online gossip surrounding their marriage as baseless and insensitive.
Actor Abhishek Bachchan has dismissed recent speculation around his marriage with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, instead shining a light on her unwavering dedication as a mother. In a recent chat, he spoke warmly about their 13-year-old daughter Aaradhya, revealing that she neither owns a mobile phone nor uses social media, something he attributes to Aishwarya’s hands-on parenting.
Aaradhya Bachchan has no access to social media or a personal phoneGetty Images
Aishwarya Rai's parenting praised as ‘selfless and devoted’
Speaking in an interview, Abhishek was full of admiration for how Aishwarya has raised their daughter. "I have to give credit entirely to Aishwarya. I go out and work, but she does all the heavy lifting when it comes to Aaradhya. She’s incredibly selfless,” he said. According to him, Aishwarya’s decision to put her daughter's well-being above everything else has shaped Aaradhya into a grounded young person.
Abhishek Bachchan calls Aishwarya a devoted mother and partnerGetty Images
Aaradhya has no phone, no social media — by choice and design
In an era when most teenagers are glued to their screens, Aaradhya stands out. “She doesn’t have a phone. She’s not on any social media. She’s being raised to be thoughtful and aware,” Abhishek said. He also acknowledged that while Aishwarya plays the larger parenting role, Aaradhya herself deserves credit for the person she’s becoming, calling her a “wonderful little lady” who brings joy and pride to the family.
Aaradhya is now taller than Aishwarya says Abhishek in candid interviewGetty Images
Responds to rumours, says online chatter can be hurtful
For months, the internet has been buzzing with speculation about a rift between Abhishek and Aishwarya. Without naming any specific rumours, Abhishek expressed frustration with how quickly false stories gain traction. “People sit behind their screens and type things without realising they’re talking about real lives. It’s very easy to be nasty online,” he shared during a media interaction.
Aishwarya Rai often seen with daughter Aaradhya at public eventsGetty Images
‘She’s taller than Aishwarya now’: a proud dad reflects
Recalling the night Aaradhya was born, Abhishek fondly mentioned how she once fit in the crook of his arm. “She’s taller than Aishwarya now,” he said with a smile, adding that the happiness of coming home to a healthy family is what matters most to him today.
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Ranveer Singh in a still from Lootera that captured his most restrained performance
Ranveer’s subtle performance in Lootera marked a major shift from his usual high-energy roles.
The 1950s-set romantic drama became a career milestone for the actor.
His restrained, emotionally complex portrayal earned long-term critical acclaim.
The film showcased a successful collaboration with director Vikramaditya Motwane.
As Dhurandhar builds buzz, Lootera reminds us of Ranveer’s range.
Twelve years ago, Ranveer Singh surprised audiences with Lootera, a period romance that asked him to do something unfamiliar: stay still. Set in 1950s Bengal and directed by Vikramaditya Motwane, the film gave Ranveer the space to deliver one of his most subdued and mature performances. No outbursts. No spectacle. Just quiet heartbreak.
Lootera released in 2013 and marked a stylistic shift for Ranveer Singh Prime Video
Here’s why his role as Varun still holds up more than a decade later:
1. A rare lesson in stillness
Known for loud roles and louder screen presence, Ranveer turned things down, way down in Lootera. His portrayal of a soft-spoken, guilt-ridden thief proved that less can sometimes be more. His silences did the heavy lifting, letting emotion simmer just beneath the surface.
Ranveer Singh’s role as Varun showed he could command the screen without saying much
2. He took a risk and it worked
At a time when most rising stars would double down on mass-appealing hits, Ranveer picked a slower, more poetic film. It was a gamble, especially for someone fresh off commercial successes. But Lootera earned him serious critical respect and broadened perceptions of what he could do as an actor.
The period romance Lootera became a turning point in Ranveer Singh’s career
3. An emotionally layered performance
Varun isn’t a typical romantic lead. He’s torn, flawed, and emotionally guarded. Ranveer managed to convey all that complexity with minimal dialogue, relying instead on body language and micro-expressions that hinted at heartbreak and inner conflict.
Ranveer Singh’s performance in Lootera was praised for its emotional restraint
4. A director who brought out his quieter side
Vikramaditya Motwane’s direction played a big role in shaping the performance. There’s a quiet rhythm to the film, and Ranveer adapted beautifully to it. The collaboration allowed him to step into a world that demanded introspection over intensity, and he delivered.
Ranveer Singh and Sonakshi Sinha starred in the romantic drama set in 1950s BengalYoutube/Altt Balaji Motion Pictures
5. A role that aged well
Not all performances hold up years later, but Lootera does. While it wasn’t a box office juggernaut, the film has since found cult love. Ranveer’s turn as Varun remains one of his most respected, proof that charisma doesn’t always need volume.
Lootera’s legacy has grown over the years despite its modest box office runYoutube/Altt Balaji Motion Pictures
What’s next?
Twelve years on, Lootera continues to be a defining moment in Ranveer Singh’s career. And with his next film, Dhurandhar, already drawing attention for a darker transformation, it’s clear the actor is still full of surprises.
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AR Rahman and Hans Zimmer smile together in viral selfie
AR Rahman and Hans Zimmer will collaborate on the soundtrack for Ramayana: Part One, directed by Nitesh Tiwari.
Rahman shared a selfie with Zimmer on Instagram, captioned “With @hanszimmer #ramayanamovie”.
The photo sparked a wave of excitement online, with fans and celebrities calling it a “historic moment”.
Ramayana: Part One stars Ranbir Kapoor, Yash, and Sai Pallavi, and is set for a Diwali 2026 release.
AR Rahman’s latest Instagram post has set the tone for what might be one of the most ambitious film music projects in recent Indian cinema. The Oscar-winning composer shared a selfie with legendary Hollywood music producer Hans Zimmer, confirming their collaboration on Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana: Part One. The picture quickly went viral, as fans celebrated the rare coming together of two globally acclaimed composers for a single Indian film.
AR Rahman confirms collaboration with Hans Zimmer on InstagramInstagram/arrahman
Music fans celebrate Rahman–Zimmer team-up
The image, shared on 4 July, featured Rahman smiling beside Zimmer, with the simple caption: “With @hanszimmer #ramayanamovie.” But the response was anything but simple. Social media platforms lit up with comments from fans, celebrities, and fellow musicians. Singer Armaan Malik commented “Legends”, while actor Lauren Gottlieb called it “iconic”. One fan summed up the mood online, calling it “the frame of the decade.” Others hailed it as a historic cultural crossover. “ARR x HZ. The frame everyone will remember,” read one comment, while another declared, “Two titans cooking up something colossal.”
Helmed by Dangal director Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana: Part One is shaping up to be a high-budget adaptation of the Indian epic. The first look, released on 3 July, featured Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram and KGF star Yash as Ravana, earning praise for its grandeur and top-notch VFX by Oscar-winning studio DNEG. The film also stars Sai Pallavi as Sita, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Ravie Dubey as Lakshman. The sneak peek hinted at an intense visual and narrative experience, portraying the Ram-Ravana war as a battle of cosmic proportions.
Ramayana: Part One is produced by Prime Focus Studios’ Namit Malhotra and co-produced by Yash. The film is scheduled for a global release in Diwali 2026, with Part Two expected to follow in Diwali 2027. With the Zimmer–Rahman musical partnership added to the mix, expectations are now sky-high. As one user wrote: “Close your eyes and you're in another world. This soundtrack is going to be unreal.”
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Birmingham celebrates its heavy metal roots with Back to the Beginning show
Ozzy Osbourne to perform one final time in Birmingham on 5 July, reuniting with Black Sabbath’s original line-up.
Villa Park will host a 10-hour metal concert titled Back to the Beginning, curated by Tom Morello.
The line-up includes Metallica, Slayer, Pantera, and others; proceeds go to three Birmingham-based charities.
The reunion marks the first time Ozzy, Iommi, Butler, and Ward will play together in 20 years.
After a lifetime of chaotic stage antics, searing vocals, and defining an entire music genre, Ozzy Osbourne is officially calling time on his career. On Saturday, the 76-year-old rock legend will headline his final concert in Birmingham, his birthplace, alongside the original members of Black Sabbath, the band that started it all.
Billed as Back to the Beginning, the sold-out event will not only mark Osbourne’s last performance but also a rare reunion with Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward. Their last appearance as a full group was two decades ago.
Ozzy Osbourne to perform one final time in BirminghamGetty Images
Final Black Sabbath reunion draws massive crowd to Villa Park
Villa Park, home to Aston Villa Football Club, will be transformed into heavy metal ground zero on 5 July. The 42,000-seat venue is just minutes from the terraced home in Aston where Osbourne’s journey began. It’s a poetic return for the man dubbed the "Prince of Darkness."
Demand for the show was overwhelming. Tickets vanished in 16 minutes, hotel prices in the city have surged and Black Sabbath murals now blanket Birmingham’s streets.
'Greatest day in metal history' brings top acts to honour Black Sabbath
Curated by Rage Against the Machine’s Tom Morello, the lineup includes Metallica, Pantera, Gojira, Halestorm, Slayer, and members of Guns N' Roses and Tool. All are performing in tribute to Black Sabbath, the band that turned bluesy rock into a darker, thunderous force back in the late 1960s.
The concert is expected to last over 10 hours. Osbourne will perform a solo set before reuniting with Black Sabbath for hits like Paranoid, War Pigs, and Black Sabbath.
Ozzy Osbourne reflects on legacy, health, and retirement
Though known for his wild, unpredictable persona, from biting a bat onstage to being the first reality TV rock dad, Ozzy’s recent years have been marked by health issues. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2020 and recovering from spinal surgeries, Osbourne says he’s finally ready to slow down.
“I’ve announced retirements before,” he admitted in an interview. “But this time, I know it’s right. I want to be with my family and enjoy what time I’ve got left.”
Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath reunite in Birmingham for farewell concert after two decades Getty Images
Profits from the concert will go to Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorns Hospice, causes close to Osbourne’s heart.
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Priyanka Chopra says she wants strong roles not just ornamental characters
Priyanka Chopra Jonas says she’s just getting started in Hollywood.
Stars as a fierce MI6 agent alongside Idris Elba and John Cena.
Gets into serious action mode with explosions, helicopters, and hand-to-hand combat.
Says her journey is still evolving, with much more to explore in the West.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas may have ruled Bollywood for over two decades, but the global star believes she’s still “nascent” in her Hollywood journey, and that’s what makes it exciting.
The Quantico and Citadel actor stars in the new Amazon Prime Video film Heads of State, playing a sharp MI6 agent named Noel Bisset. Her character has a complicated history with British Prime Minister Sam Clarke (played by Idris Elba) and is tasked with protecting him and the newly elected US President Will Derringer (John Cena) when they're attacked before a major NATO conference.
Priyanka Chopra calls herself nascent in Hollywood as 'Heads of State' streams on Prime VideoGetty Images
In a chat with PTI, Priyanka said she’s proud of her Indian film career and now wants to build an equally diverse portfolio in the West.
“It’s constant evolution for sure. I would’ve never imagined in 2002, when I did my first movie, that I’d be here today,” she said. “I feel like I’m really nascent in my work in the West. I have a major filmography in India, across genres and with amazing filmmakers. I want to build on that in English-language work too. There’s a lot more to do and explore, and I’m excited to see what unfolds.”
Over the years, Priyanka has taken on major Hollywood roles in Baywatch, The Matrix Resurrections, Love Again, and, of course, her breakout lead role in Quantico.
With Heads of State, directed by Ilya Naishuller, she says she had a blast, literally. From gun battles and hand-to-hand fights to explosive helicopter sequences, the film puts her action skills to the test once again.
“I want to be proud of the work I do. I try to choose characters with agency, not just ornamental roles,” she said. “This was a fun movie to do, and I’m really proud of what I did with this character.”
Priyanka Chopra wants to build her English film portfolio after Bollywood successGetty Images
The action-heavy film gave her the chance to collaborate with WWE legend-turned-actor John Cena for the first time, even though they started their careers around the same time in the early 2000s.
“I’ve known of John since his WWE days. He’s so popular in India; it’s hard not to know him,” she laughed. “When he transitioned to movies, I found his choice of roles really interesting. So I was very excited to work with him.”
Priyanka added that Cena is just as funny off-screen as he is on it, something that made their scenes easier and more spontaneous.
“He’s got great comedic timing even in real life. That helps a lot, especially when you're improvising on set.”
Talking about the film’s high-octane stunts, Priyanka gave full credit to the crew.
“Actors are only as good as the teams around us, especially in a movie like this. We had an incredible stunt team and a visionary director who storyboarded nearly every shot. He knew exactly how high a helicopter needed to be or how big an explosion should look. When you’re surrounded by such a solid technical team, you feel confident and capable, no matter which country you’re filming in.”
Ilya Naishuller, Priyanka Chopra and John Cena attend the special screening for "Head of State" Getty Images
The ensemble cast also includes Paddy Considine, Stephen Root, Carla Gugino, Jack Quaid, and Sarah Niles. The film is produced by Peter Safran and John Rickard.
As she continues balancing work across continents, Priyanka Chopra says one thing remains unchanged: her drive to grow.
“Success is constant evolution,” she said. “And I feel like I’m just getting started out here.”