We all know that Sunny Kaushal’s elder brother, Vicky Kaushal is a big star. This year, Vicky was seen in Uri: The Surgical Strike which is one of the biggest hits of 2019. Well, Sunny is also making a mark in the industry and will next be seen in Bhangra Paa Le.
Recently, to promote the film, Sunny tries his hands on stand-up comedy. The makers have released a video in which we are shown that there’s no light on the stage and a man is mouthing the dialogue, ‘How’s The Josh’. Now, everyone would feel that the man mouthing the dialogue would be Vicky, but well, once the lights are on we come to know that it’s Sunny.
In the video, Sunny talks about two other Sunnys in the industry, Sunny Leone and Sunny Deol. He also takes a dig at nepotism and compares it to getting married. And at the end of the video, he requests audiences to watch his movie Bhangra Paa Le. We must say that the makers have come up with an innovative way to promote their film.
Sunny took to Instagram to share the video. He posted, “Nepotism has a sunny side up☀ #BhangraPaaLe, in cinemas on 3rd January 2020 @rukshardhillon12 @shriya.pilgaonkar @snehataurani #RonnieScrewvala @rsvpmovies @ipritamofficial @jam8studio @tips.”
Bhangra Paa Le also stars Rukshar Dhillon and it is slated to hit the screens on 3rd January 2020. Interestingly, the first release of 2019 was Vicky Kaushal’s Uri: The Surgical Strike which was produced by RSVP. And now, we will start our 2020 with Sunny Kaushal and Bhangra Paa Le is also produced by RSVP.
A viral video has captured the intense aftermath of a food challenge involving what is being called London’s “hottest curry”, as a man was seen sweating and sitting on the pavement outside the restaurant shortly after attempting the dish.
The footage, shared by Instagram account UB1UB2: Southall, West London, shows a man identified as Daniel taking on the extreme curry challenge at Bengal Village, an Indian restaurant in East London. The video begins with restaurant owner Raj presenting the dish while wearing a gas mask — a precaution, it appears, against the powerful fumes of the curry.
Soon after, Daniel is seen outside the restaurant, visibly distressed, sweating and seated on the pavement. Raj follows with a large glass of mango lassi in an effort to cool him down and encourage him to continue.
Curry made with 72 chilli varieties
According to a report by the Evening Standard, the curry in question is prepared using a specially made paste that blends 72 different types of chilli sourced globally. Among these are the Carolina Reaper — one of the hottest chillies in the world — as well as scotch bonnet, bird’s eye, naga and snake chillies.
The intense blend is cooked with traditional Indian spices including cumin, fenugreek and mustard seeds, along with garlic, onions, and ghee, resulting in a deep red chicken curry known for its extreme heat.
Chefs are reportedly required to wear gloves during preparation due to the potency of the ingredients.
Not everyone can handle the heat
The Standard further reports that previous challengers have suffered strong reactions. One diner was nearly hospitalised, while another was found lying on the restaurant floor, overwhelmed by the curry’s strength.
While the challenge continues to attract daring food enthusiasts, the restaurant has made it clear that it’s not for the faint-hearted, and comes with plenty of warnings.
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Real life inspires me more than fiction: Jay Thakkar on acting, ambition and human truths
Starting his journey on stage at the tender age of four, Jay Thakkar has grown up in front of the camera, having transformed from a precocious child performer into a versatile actor known for compelling roles across television, web, and cinema.
Whether mimicking dance moves in competitions as a child or biting into dark, psychologically complex characters as an adult, Thakkar has always approached his craft with sincerity, resilience, and emotional depth. His latest project, Bhool Chuk Maaf, a time-loop Bollywood film, was recently released on Amazon Prime. It marks yet another bold turn in a career built on fearless choices. In this exclusive interview with Eastern Eye, he reflects on key roles, lessons learned, working with legends, what drives him as an artist, and his future. He also shares fond memories of working with the late actor Sushant Singh Rajput.
Jay Thakkar
How do you reflect on your journey as an actor?
As a child, I participated in various competitions and often found myself mimicking actors and dance performances. These early experiences instilled in me a love for performance and storytelling. Over the years, facing both opportunities and rejections, I’ve grown as an actor and individual. Each experience, whether triumphant or challenging, has shaped my perspective and deepened my commitment to the craft. Performing never felt like a task – it felt like expression. These collective experiences have given me an understanding of resilience, humility, and growth – lessons I still carry with me every day.
Which of the roles has been closest to your heart?
The role of Sethji in Colors TV’s Laagi Tujhse Lagan holds a special place in my heart. Produced by Paresh Rawal and Hemal Thakkar, this character took me on an emotional journey – from innocence to a young gangster, and finally to a heartbroken child dealing with his mother’s incarceration. Adopting the ‘tapori Bambaiyaa’ accent and portraying a lower-middle-class chawl boy added layers to the character. This role allowed me to explore a wide emotional spectrum, making it both challenging and rewarding. It taught me that even in a limited arc, if the emotions are real, they leave a lasting impact.
Which project challenged you the most as an actor?
Portraying psycho-terrorist Muzammil in Sony LIV’s Adrishyam was one of my most demanding roles. The character was sociopathic, merciless, and completely devoid of empathy. In one intense scene, he bites off his father’s ear and, during interrogation, chews on his own nails – highlighting how unhinged he is. Sharing the screen with Divyanka Tripathi, who played an Indian secret agent, added further intensity to the performance. It pushed me to dive deep into the psyche of someone emotionally detached from humanity. I had to access a kind of darkness I had never explored before – it changed me as an actor.
Does your approach change between film and television?
Yes and no. Technically, film allows more time for introspection and preparation, while television trains you to think on your feet. But emotionally, my commitment remains the same. Whether it is a 30-second scene or a three-minute monologue, I aim to serve the character with authenticity and heart. The medium may shift, but my mindset is always rooted in honesty and empathy. Television’s fast-paced nature demands quick adaptability, often with limited preparation time.
Jay Thakkar
And what about film?
In contrast, films allow for deeper exploration of character and more time to develop nuance. But regardless of the medium, my approach stays consistent: understand the character’s psyche fully and deliver a performance that resonates with the audience.
What was the experience of working on Bhool Chuk Maaf?
It was a transformative experience. I spent months preparing – working with a dialect coach and immersing myself in Banaras to learn the local slang and tone. That preparation was essential to bring authenticity to the role. Working alongside Rajkummar Rao, Wamiqa Gabbi, and legends like Sanjay Mishra ji and Seema Pahwa ji was enlightening.
Do any moments from the shoot stand out?
Yes, one in particular. During a dance sequence, Rajkummar and director Karan Sharma sir noticed my energy and insisted I join the song, even though I had not rehearsed. Their encouragement made me feel valued and reinforced the collaborative spirit on set. There was a deep respect for the craft throughout the team. When you are surrounded by such passion, it does not feel like work – it feels like purpose.
You also worked with Sushant Singh Rajput on Pavitra Rishta. What are your fondest memories of him?
Sushant bhaiya was pure magic on set. He stayed grounded, no matter how much fame came his way. He would joke with me, share his food, and talk to everyone like a playful, innocent child. He once told me, “Never stop being a student of life,” and that has stayed with me. He was not just an actor – he was a thinker, a dreamer, and a beacon of humility. I fondly remember him stealing theplas from my tiffin during shoots.
Jay Thakkar
Tell us more about your time working with him.
Even as his fame grew, he remained humble and generous with his time. He encouraged me and offered guidance. His dedication to acting and his authenticity left a lasting impression. One of my favourite memories is him telling me to stay curious and keep learning – advice I live by today.
What can audiences expect next from you?
I am looking forward to the release of my next film, Apna Amitabh. I am also part of a web series titled Pranksters. I have done several high-profile ads and am in talks for new film and series projects that will begin soon. Right now, I am focused on roles that challenge me and say something meaningful. I am not in a rush, but I am hungry for layered storytelling.
Do you have a dream role?
I am drawn to characters that challenge societal norms and explore deep emotional layers. I would love to play a morally grey protagonist – someone who is flawed, yet relatable. Such roles let you explore the full range of human behaviour and complexity. I would love to play a conflicted revolutionary – someone who walks the line between right and wrong and makes the audience think. Such characters allow you to show both strength and vulnerability.
Who is your acting hero?
Shah Rukh Khan has always inspired me. His journey from humble beginnings to global stardom shows what passion and dedication can achieve. His emotional range and authenticity on screen are remarkable. Internationally, I admire Denzel Washington – the intensity and depth he brings to every role is powerful. Both actors prove how cinema can transform and move people.
Jay Thakkar
If you could master something new, what would it be?
I would love to master calisthenics, martial arts, and classical Indian dance. These disciplines train not only the body but also the mind and spirit. As an actor, your body is your instrument. The more control and expression you develop, the more powerful your performance becomes – sometimes without saying a single word.
What inspires you as an actor?
Real life inspires me more than fiction ever could – the flaws, contradictions, and hopes people carry. I observe unspoken gestures – a tired smile, a long pause, a look of doubt. Every person is carrying a story, and as an actor, it is my job to honour that with honesty. The struggles and triumphs of everyday people drive my passion. Everyone has a unique narrative, and I want to bring those stories to life with empathy and truth. The human experience is endlessly rich – and it reminds me why cinema matters.
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Janhvi Kapoor and Shikhar Pahariya walk the streets of London together fans react to viral video
Actor Janhvi Kapoor was recently spotted in London, walking hand-in-hand with rumoured boyfriend Shikhar Pahariya in a video that has since gone viral. Captured by a passerby, the clip shows the duo casually strolling through the streets. Dressed in relaxed outfits, Janhvi in a black tube top and joggers, and Shikhar in a mint green tee with white trousers, the pair looked at ease in each other’s presence. Janhvi’s sister Khushi Kapoor was also seen walking nearby, playing third wheel.
While Janhvi and Shikhar have never publicly confirmed their relationship, moments like these continue to fuel speculation. From dinner outings to joint appearances at major events, the signs have long been there. Janhvi has also worn a necklace with Shikhar’s name in the past, and he frequently posts photos of her on social media.
This isn’t the first time the internet has buzzed with talk of the two. Their quiet presence together over the years, including a joint appearance at this year’s Cannes Film Festival for the premiere of Janhvi’s upcoming film Homebound, has kept fans guessing. The film, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, also stars Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa.
Janhvi had briefly opened up about her dynamic with Shikhar on Koffee With Karan Season 8. When Karan Johar cheekily asked if she had gone back to dating Shikhar after a break, Janhvi smiled and said, “Have you heard that song Nadaan Parindey Ghar Aaja? Shikhar used to sing that to me a lot.”
Shikhar Pahariya's Instagram post on Diwali Instagram/shikharpahariya
Shikhar Pahariya, the grandson of former Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde and son of producer-actor Smruti Shinde, has kept a relatively low profile despite the public curiosity. His brother, Veer Pahariya, recently debuted in Bollywood with Sky Force.
What’s next for Janhvi Kapoor
Janhvi, meanwhile, has a packed schedule. She stars in Param Sundari, a romantic comedy with Sidharth Malhotra set in Kerala, releasing on 25 July. She’s also reuniting with Varun Dhawan for Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari, a family entertainer slated for September. A sports-action film titled Peddi, co-starring Ram Charan and scored by AR Rahman, is also on the list for 2026.
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The track is already being embraced by content creators and social media users
A new track titled 'Boom Boom Tel Aviv' is making waves online, with its high-energy beat and visually vibrant lyric video quickly gaining popularity across platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.
The song, uploaded to YouTube on 20 June 2025, has captured global attention for its infectious chorus and bold celebration of Tel Aviv’s culture and nightlife. Though not associated with any official tourism campaign, the track is already being embraced by content creators and social media users as a celebratory anthem for the Israeli city.
A fast-rising viral hit
Within hours of its release, 'Boom Boom Tel Aviv' began trending on X (formerly Twitter), Threads, and TikTok, where users began pairing clips of the track with travel videos, dance routines, and city-life montages. One widely shared post simply stated, “Someone made a song called Boom Boom Tel Aviv—this is a music video. It’s viral af,” highlighting the organic nature of the song’s popularity.
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Although the artists behind the track have not yet issued a public statement, the video’s quick rise suggests that the song has tapped into a desire for upbeat, location-themed music that reflects a sense of place and identity. The chorus is short and repetitive, perfect for short-form video platforms, while the video itself features a montage of stylised visuals representing Tel Aviv’s streets, beaches, and nightlife.
Echoes of earlier Tel Aviv tracks
This is not the first time Tel Aviv has been the focus of a dance anthem. In 2022, the Israeli EDM scene saw the release of 'Boom Boom Bass' by JETFIRE, Meital De Razon and Forever Tel Aviv, which gained traction in local nightclubs. However, 'Boom Boom Tel Aviv' is not a remix or sequel to that track. Instead, it stands alone as an original composition with its own distinct rhythm and message.
The track combines electronic elements with a pop sensibility, producing a sound that is both accessible and danceable. Though the lyrics are relatively simple, they appear designed for instant replay and remixing, a formula that has worked for other viral hits in the recent past.
Cultural pride and timing
The song's success comes at a time when city-based identity and digital self-expression are closely intertwined. As global travel slowly returns to pre-pandemic levels, music that champions specific locations, especially energetic and visually distinctive ones, tends to do well on social media.
Tel Aviv, known for its nightlife, beachfront culture, and progressive attitude, offers a strong backdrop for such a track. Users from both Israel and abroad are using 'Boom Boom Tel Aviv' to soundtrack their posts, often combining it with cityscapes, drone footage, or clips from recent festivals.
A track to watch
While it remains to be seen whether 'Boom Boom Tel Aviv' will reach the scale of global hits like 'Jerusalema' or 'Calm Down', its rapid rise suggests it may become a summer anthem for 2025, particularly among younger audiences looking for upbeat, location-specific content.
- YouTubeYouTube/ We Trust
As the views climb and remixes begin to surface, the song is poised to become one of this season’s most unexpected musical successes.
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Kuberaa Twitter reviews call Dhanush’s performance his best and praise Sekhar Kammula’s storytelling
Sekhar Kammula’s Kuberaa, starring Dhanush, Nagarjuna, and Rashmika Mandanna, hit theatres on 20 June and has quickly made waves online. Reactions across social media, particularly Twitter, have described the film as a bold, emotionally rich crime drama with standout performances, especially from Dhanush. Audiences have called it a “rare gem” in today’s commercial landscape and one of the best Telugu-Tamil bilingual films of 2025 so far.
Dhanush’s career-best, Rashmika’s surprise, and Nagarjuna’s steady hand
The highlight of most audience reviews is Dhanush’s performance, hailed by many as his “career-best” and even “National Award-worthy.” His portrayal of Deva, a beggar caught in a complex web of crime and morality, has been described as transformative and deeply immersive. One viewer wrote that few actors could pull off such a layered character with the same mannerisms in multiple avatars. Fans have also praised Rashmika Mandanna, calling this her strongest performance yet. Her portrayal is described as subtle yet powerful, giving the character both vulnerability and resilience. Nagarjuna’s presence, though noted to be slightly underused, was still appreciated for its gravitas and emotional weight.
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Sekhar Kammula’s direction was lauded for steering clear of formulaic mass elements, there are no item numbers or excessive heroism and instead relying on a grounded narrative. Viewers appreciated the film’s quiet intensity, emotional pacing, and the director’s ability to build tension without gimmicks. Cinematographer Niketh Bommireddy received special praise for his frames and lighting, with many calling the visuals “painterly” and emotionally charged. Devi Sri Prasad’s background score was also credited for amplifying the film’s emotional beats.
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Long runtime, uneven pacing but still worth the ride
Despite widespread acclaim, some viewers felt Kuberaa’s three-hour-plus runtime could have been tighter. A few pointed out that the second half dragged slightly and the climax felt rushed compared to the strong build-up. Others mentioned that some of Kammula’s philosophical themes did not fully land in execution. Still, even the critics agreed the film is a worthwhile experience that deviates from standard commercial fare.
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In all, Kuberaa is being celebrated as a rare cinematic effort: emotionally grounded, superbly acted, and visually distinctive. Whether or not it’s a perfect film, audiences seem to agree that this is Dhanush’s show, and it’s one worth watching.