RISING Indian music star Azadd has shown off his impressive talent on songs like the recently released ballad Umarien.
The singer/songwriter draws in diverse inspirations for his songs, ranging from classic Bollywood to contemporary pop music.
Eastern Eye found out more by getting him to select 10 songs he loves.
Tum Ho from Rockstar: This film song has a timeless melody. I have heard it countless times but every time it sounds fresh. There is some kind of magic in this song. I bet this is everyone's favourite.
Umarein by Azadd: This song resonates with my soul. It deeply aligns or connects with your inner being, emotions, or core values. It implies a profond sense of harmony and understanding between my personal experiences or beliefs and the external element that evokes this feeling. This profoundly moves me on a very deep, almost spiritual level.
Kahin Door Jab from Anand: This timeless and melancholic song from the classic film is sung by legendary playback singer Mukesh. The song is imbued with a deep sense of melancholy and nostalgia. It speaks to the longing for distant moments and bittersweet reminiscences of times gone by.
Gravity by John Mayer: The track is a soulful, blues-inspired ballad that delves into themes of struggle, balance, and perseverance. Mayer’s emotive guitar work and smooth vocals are at the forefront, supported by a minimalistic yet impactful arrangement that includes a steady rhythm section and subtle piano accents. Gravity is beautifully used as a metaphor for life’s challenges and emotional weight that can pull one down.
Musafir by Azadd: The title translates to ‘traveller’ in English. The song’s lyrics explore themes of journey, self-discovery, and the passage of time. Its lyrics will force you to just sit and think about life.
Phir Le Aya Dil from Barfi:This poignant song from the Bollywood film is beautifully sung by Arijit Singh (with a reprise version by Rekha Bhardwaj). The ghazal-style ballad evokes deep emotions and nostalgia. Musically, it features a soothing blend of traditional Indian instruments like the tabla, harmonium, and flute, creating a timeless and elegant sound. The arrangement is minimal yet impactful, allowing the vocals and lyrics to take centre-stage.
Kahani from Laal Singh Chaddha:This 2022 film track features introspective lyrics, which contribute to the narrative. They poetically express the idea of each person’s life being a unique story filled with its own set of experiences, emotions, and lessons. This song captures the protagonist's journey, reflecting on the simplicity and depth of human existence.
Le Chal Mujhe from Rang De Basanti: This AR Rahman composition has been appreciated for its lyrical beauty, serene melody, and the way it enhances the emotional and narrative depth of a film dealing with themes of patriotism, sacrifice, and youthful idealism. The song is memorable on a soundtrack that significantly contributes to the film’s powerful impact.
Shaam from Aisha: This melodious track from the 2010 Bollywood film Aisha is a romantic, feel-good number that captures the essence of youthful love. The lyrics celebrate the simple joys of life, such as watching the sunset and enjoying each other’s company, conveying a sense of warmth, romance, and contentment. The poetic and evocative words perfectly capture the mood of a serene and magical evening.
Aye Ajnabi by Azadd: This song has been appreciated for its lyrical beauty, melodic richness, and the way it encapsulates the universal experience of encountering a significant, but distant connection. The song stands out for its emotional resonance and seamless blend of modern and traditional musical elements.
Taylor Swift reportedly used a £6,000 (₹7.14 lakh) bulletproof portable shield to attend Travis Kelce’s game discreetly.
Heightened security follows the fatal shooting of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk last week.
Swift’s low-profile entry marked a departure from her usual public arrivals at Arrowhead Stadium.
Fans speculate the singer opted for extra protection amid growing safety concerns.
Taylor Swift took unprecedented precautions at Sunday’s Kansas City Chiefs game, reportedly shielding herself behind a bulletproof barrier as she watched fiancé Travis Kelce play. The heightened security comes amid concerns following Charlie Kirk’s shocking murder, showing that Swift’s safety remains a top priority. Fans noticed the unusual arrival, sparking discussions online about the superstar’s protective measures.
Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift at Amerant Bank Arena on June 12 2025 Getty Images
What kind of barrier did Taylor Swift use at the Chiefs game?
According to reports, Swift was behind a bullet-resistant portable shield partition valued at around £6,000 (₹7.14 lakh). The barrier, escorted by multiple security personnel, appeared to move through the stadium tunnels, preventing cameras and fans from spotting her. While there is no official confirmation, Swifties are convinced the singer took the extra step to maintain privacy and safety during the match.
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Why did security concerns escalate for Taylor Swift?
The need for extra protection follows the fatal shooting of right-wing commentator Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University last Wednesday. Although unrelated to Swift, the event heightened conversations about celebrity safety.
Fans drew connections between the murder and Swift’s low-profile entry, since she rarely avoids public attention when attending Travis Kelce’s games. Past incidents, including threats and security challenges, have also prompted Swift to adopt protective measures, such as carrying QuikClot dressings and employing armoured vehicles, as revealed in her 2020 documentary Miss Americana.
Travis Kelce, Taylor Swift and Jason Kelce watch during the first half of the game on August 28, 2025 in Kansas CityGetty Images
How did fans react to Taylor Swift’s discreet arrival?
Online reactions ranged from concern to intrigue. Many fans praised Swift for prioritising safety, while others speculated about the implications of such high-security measures at public events. Social media posts highlighted the contrast between her usual high-profile entrances and the stealthy approach during Sunday’s match. While the Kansas City Chiefs lost 20-17 against the Philadelphia Eagles, attention remained focused on Swift’s security while attending the game.
How has Travis Kelce influenced Taylor Swift’s sports fandom?
Beyond safety, the couple’s shared experiences have brought Swift closer to the NFL. Kelce recently told GQ that he introduced Swift to football, helping her understand injury reports, game situations, and team strategies. “I sort of made her a football fan,” Kelce said. Swift’s engagement with the sport has grown alongside her public appearances, though Sunday marked one of her most discreet visits. Fans hope her presence continues to bring excitement and maybe luck to the Chiefs as the season progresses.
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Pawan Kalyan’s OG breaks overseas records with sold-out shows days before release
Advance bookings for They Call Him OG begin overseas with record sell-outs
Melbourne IMAX, the world’s second-largest screen, sold out in just 2 minutes
Additional shows added in Sydney and Coventry due to massive demand
Film marks Emraan Hashmi’s Telugu debut alongside Pawan Kalyan
The anticipation for Pawan Kalyan’s much-awaited action film They Call Him OG, popularly called OG, has reached unprecedented levels. Overseas advance bookings opened this week, and within minutes the buzz translated into packed theatres. At Melbourne IMAX, the world’s second-largest cinema screen with 461 seats, tickets sold out in just two minutes. The feat proves both the global demand for OG and the star power of Pawan Kalyan, whose fanbase stretches far beyond India.
Pawan Kalyan’s OG breaks overseas records with sold-out shows days before release Instagram/ogmovieofficial
Why did Pawan Kalyan’s OG sell out so fast?
The quick sell-out reflects the megastar’s enormous popularity among Telugu audiences abroad. Fans in Australia, the UK, and the US form a significant chunk of the overseas box office for big-budget Telugu films, and OG has already positioned itself as one of the biggest cinematic events of 2025.
Social media was flooded with screenshots of the Melbourne IMAX seating chart turning red within minutes of bookings opening. One fan club on X wrote:
“#TheyCallHimOG sets a record! The premiere at the world’s 2nd largest screen – @IMAX_Melbourne – SOLD OUT in less than 2 mins!”
With tickets snapped up instantly, distributors have already added extra shows in Sydney and Coventry to meet demand.
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What is Pawan Kalyan’s OG about?
Directed by Sujeeth, They Call Him OG is an action gangster drama. The story follows Ojas Gambheera, played by Pawan Kalyan, who resurfaces in Mumbai after a decade-long disappearance to confront rival crime boss Omi Bhau, played by Emraan Hashmi. For Hashmi, the film marks his Telugu debut. Priyanka Arul Mohan, Prakash Raj, and Sriya Reddy also play key roles.
The film’s production house, DVV Entertainment, the same banner behind RRR, recently released a glimpse on Kalyan’s birthday, giving fans their first look at the blood-soaked action. A soundtrack titled Guns N Roses also dropped on 15 September, further fuelling the excitement.
How has Pawan Kalyan’s political career affected OG?
Pawan Kalyan was recently elected to the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly and sworn in as the state’s Deputy Chief Minister. His new role has meant limited time for acting, but he assured fans that he would complete OG before taking a break to focus on his political career. This could make the film his last release for some time, adding to the sense of urgency among fans to catch it on the big screen.
Despite political commitments, Kalyan prioritised finishing the shoot so that his fans worldwide could experience OG as intended.
When is OG releasing and what to expect at the box office?
They Call Him OG is set for a global release on 25 September 2025. With advance bookings overseas already breaking records, industry trackers expect the film to post massive opening day numbers internationally. The buzz in Australia and the UK indicates that demand may outstrip supply in some markets, with more shows likely to be added before release day.
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The sold-out Melbourne IMAX premiere, achieved nine days ahead of release, shows the film’s blockbuster status even before it hits theatres. For the Telugu diaspora and fans of Indian cinema worldwide, OG is shaping up as the must-watch spectacle of the year.
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Sabrina Carpenter, Karol G and a long-awaited Bieber debut — Coachella 2026 rewrites the pop playbook
Coachella confirms 2026 lineup with Justin Bieber, Sabrina Carpenter, Karol G and Anyma headlining
Festival runs 10–12 April and 17–19 April at the Empire Polo Club in California
Bieber headlines Coachella for the first time after years of guest spots
Ticket prices range from £445 (₹47,300) for general entry to over £970 (₹1.03 lakh) for VIP passes
The Coachella 2026 lineup has been released, placing Justin Bieber, Sabrina Carpenter, Karol G and Anyma at the top of the bill. For Bieber, it marks a long-delayed first full set at the desert festival after years of cameo appearances, while Carpenter returns in a headline role following her recent chart run. Karol G leads Sunday with her Latin pop power, and Anyma brings a high-tech electronic show to close the circle.
Sabrina Carpenter, Karol G and a long-awaited Bieber debut — Coachella 2026 rewrites the pop playbook Instagram Screengrab/coachella
When is Coachella 2026 happening?
Coachella will return over two weekends: 10 to 12 April and 17 to 19 April, at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California. The festival, now in its third decade, has built a reputation not just for music but also for its large-scale art installations and star-studded crowds. With the 2026 edition, organisers are focusing on variety, placing mainstream pop acts alongside experimental projects and veteran names.
Coachella Instagram Story Instagram Screengrab/coachella
Who are the headliners for Coachella 2026?
The Coachella 2026 lineup puts four different sounds at the forefront.
Justin Bieber headlines Saturday nights. He has previously joined Ariana Grande, Tems and Wizkid onstage at Coachella but never performed his own set. His appearance follows the release of two albums in 2025, Swag and Swag II.
Sabrina Carpenter leads the Friday programme. Her album Man’s Best Friend has dominated pop charts, and she steps up after playing a sunset set in 2024.
Karol G closes both Sundays. The Colombian singer made her Coachella debut in 2022 and returns with songs from her recent record Tropicoqueta.
Anyma, the solo project of Italian producer Matteo Milleri, offers an electronic-visual spectacle that has already sold out Las Vegas residencies.
Beyond the headliners, Coachella 2026 gathers a wide mix of names. Friday brings The xx, Disclosure, Central Cee, Ethel Cain, Teddy Swims, Sexyy Red, and rising girl groups BINI and Katseye. Saturday features The Strokes, Addison Rae, David Byrne, Sombr, Labrinth, Interpol, and PinkPantheress. Sunday includes Young Thug, FKA Twigs, Iggy Pop, Laufey, Kaskade, and Interpol.
A teaser appears at the bottom of the poster: “The Bunker Debut of Radiohead Kid A Mnesia,” fuelling interest in what could be a rare group appearance.
Tickets are already on sale. General admission passes begin at £445 (₹47,300) for the second weekend, with the first weekend priced slightly higher at £525 (₹55,800). VIP options range from £970 (₹1.03 lakh) to £1,070 (₹1.13 lakh), offering priority access and exclusive viewing areas.
Coachella Instagram Story Instagram Screengrab/coachella
Why is Bieber’s appearance significant?
For years, Justin Bieber has been a presence at Coachella without ever being an official part of the bill. His headline slot in 2026 changes that. Fans can expect his first major festival set in more than three years, making it one of the most anticipated performances of the season.
Actor-director Dhanush performed live with composer GV Prakash at Chennai event.
Youngest son Linga joined his father on stage, dancing alongside him.
Dhanush recounted childhood memories that inspired the story of Idli Kadai.
The film, featuring a star-studded cast, is set to release on 1 October.
Dhanush delighted fans at the Idli Kadai audio launch in Chennai with a touching father-son moment, performing the film’s hit song Enjami Thandhaane alongside music composer GV Prakash. The actor’s youngest son, Linga, joined him on stage, creating a heartfelt moment that resonated with audiences. Dhanush also shared personal childhood memories, revealing how his love for idlis inspired the upcoming film.
Dhanush stuns fans as young son Linga joins him for impromptu dance at 'Idli Kadai’ audio launch Instagram Screengrab/life_of_aakash/redgiantmovies_
How did Dhanush and Linga steal the show at Idli Kadai audio launch?
The audio launch of Idli Kadai on 14 September saw Dhanush delivering a lively performance with GV Prakash, which quickly became the highlight of the event. Towards the end of the song, Dhanush invited his son Linga to join him on stage. The duo’s synchronised dance moves were met with loud applause from fans, who captured the emotional moment on camera.
During the event, Dhanush shared a deeply personal story from his childhood that formed the basis for Idli Kadai. He recounted waking up at 4 a.m. with his sister and cousins to collect flowers from their neighbourhood, earning around £0.02 (₹2) each.
The children would then bathe at a local pump set and head to an idli shop, where the modest earnings would buy four to five idlis. Dhanush said the experience of eating food earned through hard work left an indelible mark on him, inspiring the film’s narrative about perseverance and simple joys.
Idli Kadai marks Dhanush’s fourth directorial venture and features a strong ensemble cast. Alongside Dhanush, the film stars Nithya Menen, Sathyaraj, Arun Vijay, Samuthirakani, Rajkiran, Shalini Pandey, and Parthiepan.
The Tamil release is scheduled for 1 October 2025, with a Telugu version titled Ildi Kottu also set to hit screens simultaneously. Fans can expect a mix of compelling storytelling, music, and emotional moments that reflect Dhanush’s personal touch as a filmmaker.
Why did fans react emotionally to Dhanush and Linga’s dance?
The impromptu father-son dance captured the hearts of fans because it was both genuine and affectionate. After their performance, Dhanush hugged Linga, while the young boy touched his father’s feet in a traditional gesture of respect. This simple yet heartfelt exchange highlighted Dhanush’s family-oriented persona, further endearing him to fans. Clips of the performance have since circulated widely on social media, generating admiration for both Dhanush’s talent and his bond with his son.
Two leading AI tools shaping digital art, Seedream 4.0 and Google’s Gemini Nano Banana
Seedream 4.0 generates high-resolution imaginative visuals in multiple styles
Nano Banana transforms selfies into retro Bollywood-inspired portraits
Viral on Instagram, TikTok, and X, with global audiences engaging
Experts highlight data privacy, authenticity, and ethical concerns
AI-powered creativity is sweeping social media, with Seedream 4.0 and Nano Banana AI capturing the imagination of users worldwide. Seedream 4.0 is designed for digital artists and hobbyists who want to create detailed, high-quality visuals in a wide range of styles, from realistic landscapes to abstract scenes. Nano Banana, on the other hand, allows users to turn selfies into 1990s Bollywood-inspired portraits, often featuring traditional South Asian attire and nostalgic retro backdrops.
A global viral phenomenon
Both tools have seen rapid adoption in 2025. Seedream 4.0 attracts those seeking versatile, high-resolution creative outputs. Nano Banana has gone viral for its playful, culturally resonant edits. Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X are flooded with creations from influencers, celebrities, and everyday users, showing the broad appeal of AI-driven art.
Why creativity matters
Seedream 4.0 highlights the technical potential of AI, giving users precise control over the artistic process. Nano Banana blends nostalgia with identity play, offering a visually striking way to connect with cultural heritage. Together, the platforms illustrate how AI can be both a tool for experimentation and a medium for cultural expression.
Data privacy and safety concerns
Experts warn that uploading personal images or creative files to AI platforms carries privacy risks. Questions around image storage, consent, and potential misuse are increasingly important for younger audiences and online communities. Governments and digital safety advocates in India, the UK, and beyond have emphasised caution.
Beyond the trends
Seedream 4.0 and Nano Banana each cater to different creative goals but highlight the expanding ecosystem of AI art. Users are exploring everything from high-resolution imaginative scenes to retro Bollywood portraits, showing that AI-driven experimentation is not only here to stay but also shaping global digital culture.
As these trends grow, they are influencing both digital aesthetics and social media engagement while fostering creative expression across cultures in 2025.