PANDYA STORE STAR DISCUSSES HER ACTING JOURNEY AND HIT SHOW
ACTING was never part of the plan for Shiny Doshi.
She was modelling for TV commercials and print advertisements when a role in high-profile drama serial Saraswatichandra was offered to her in 2013. That terrific television debut triggered an acting obsession within her and started an impressive run of powerful performances in popular projects.
The beautiful model-turned-actress is continuing to delight audiences with a winning turn in her latest drama serial Pandya Store, which has been pulling in high ratings since it premiered in January 2021.
Eastern Eye caught up with fan favourite Shiny to discuss her time in television, Pandya Store, future hopes, lockdown life lessons and what she would love to master.
You have become an accomplished actress, but how did you feel starring in your debut serial Saraswatichandra alongside established stars?
Initially, it was very difficult and a little embarrassing too because I was new to
all this, and the show had some very talented people. So, I learned watching and observing them. There were times when I would go to my room and cry because I didn’t know a lot of things, but my mother kept me going. She would motivate me and tell me that I can do it. She would ask me to learn and observe other actors. Even when I was not in a scene I would sit behind the monitor and learn from the actors performing. I would observe the technicalities they kept in mind while doing a scene. I learned watching them and realised this is what I want to do and should be doing much more in this acting field.
Which of your characters have you most enjoyed?
I have enjoyed all my characters but the amount of popularity that I got in my debut show Saraswatichandra, where I played the role of Kusum, was huge. People loved me! I was new at that time and didn’t know much about acting, so instead of learning the lines, I would try to understand the scene.
Where did that kind of thought process come from?
My mother always told me that instead of learning the lines, I should understand the scene to get the right emotions and the right mood. That amount of love I got for my debut, I am getting the same in my current show Pandya Store, where I play the role of Dhara. I would say my first show has given me so much in life. (Smiles) Now with the same production house and the same channel, I am shining bright once again.
What has the experience of acting in Pandya Store been like?
When you start a new show it’s a little difficult initially. You need to bring a character to life and must be careful about the character’s mannerisms. But with each episode it became easy. When we were doing the workshop, (director) Pradip ji was very particular about every line that I used to speak. Even if I had a monologue of two to three pages, and if I would get stuck somewhere, he would ask me to start over again. That strict schooling has got me where I am today.
How much did that help you?
I used to go to the sets with a lot of enthusiasm and energy thinking that ‘Okay, I have to perform’, and since my director was so particular, I was much more careful. Pradip ji made sure that all my lines were said with the right emotion and that’s what helped me connect with the audience. Though Pradip ji is doing another show now, our current director also ensures that everything is just perfect, and I am enjoying every bit of it.
Why do you think Pandya Store is so loved by the audience?
I think people like watching family drama. They love watching the bond between a family. Families go through a lot of ups and downs in real life and when you see it on-screen, I feel that’s what helps in connecting with the viewers. In the show, my on-screen family is an average middle class one and they have been through a lot, and now with Covid, I feel everyone is going through a tough time and people can relate to the show. Also, shows like ours give hope to people that no matter what, we must stick together, and we will always emerge stronger and better.
What has it been like working during a pandemic?
You need to be careful and sanitise. You need to maintain a safe distance from people. Because work is not going to stop, you need to shoot and for that you need to move out of your comfort zone. The production house and the channel are taking utmost precautions. We are working with a minimal unit. So, it’s been good so far.
What is the biggest life lesson lockdown has taught you?
First, it taught me patience because I was shooting for a show in 2020 when the lockdown happened, and it was shut. So, it taught me to be patient and also that somethings are meant to end in life, so that you can have a new beginning. And when that show got shut down, I got Pandya Store. Second, I have never functioned without a maid in my house, but because of lockdown my maid couldn’t come. So, initially I faced a lot of problems; it felt like a task but when I started enjoying it, it felt nice. I realised that I was at least doing something productive in life.
What else did you learn?
I would always work out in the gym, but because of the lockdown I started working out at home and the kind of transformation I saw was better than what I got with the help of a gym or trainer. So I think because of lockdown I became more independent rather than being dependent on others.
What content do you enjoy watching?
I enjoy watching historical shows and scientific thrillers. They take you to a different world altogether and give you the feel and experience that you would not have in your actual life. I have recently binge-watched The Empire on HotStar.
What would be your dream role?
One of my favourite series is Game of Thrones, so I would like to play one of the strong Viking roles. My dream role would be playing a warrior on-screen.
If you could master something new what would it be?
I would like to master the skill of giving a perfect scene every time I face the camera. I think, for me, art is very important, so I would like to become a perfect multi-tasker; a great performer, who can dance, act and do other things perfectly.
What is your idea of happiness?
My idea of happiness is having acceptance of everything that life is throwing at
you, be it good or bad. Learn from the bad and cherish the good ones in life. You must find joy in the little things. Don’t let anything stop you from what you are doing. Have acceptance for your failure as well because that’s when you rise and shine in life
Next hearing scheduled before joint registrar on 7 November and full court on 15 January 2026.
Bollywood star Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has approached the Indian court to safeguard her personality rights after discovering that her name, photographs, and digitally manipulated images were being misused online. The actor’s petition draws attention to the rise of AI-generated pornographic content, calling it a grave violation of her dignity and privacy. Justice Tejas Karia has indicated that an ad-interim order may be passed to restrain the defendants from further misuse.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has approached the court over misuse of her AI-generated images Getty Images
Why did Aishwarya Rai Bachchan file a Delhi High Court case?
Rai Bachchan’s plea, filed through senior advocate Sandeep Sethi along with lawyers Pravin Anand and Dhruv Anand, alleges the unauthorised use of her name, image, likeness, and voice for commercial gain and objectionable content. The petition states that manipulated visuals, created through deepfake and artificial intelligence tools, were being circulated online in sexually explicit form.
Sethi told the court: “Her name and image are being used to satisfy someone’s sexual desires. This is very unfortunate.” He argued that fabricated intimate images were being exploited without her knowledge or consent, amounting to a severe breach of her rights.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan seeks protection of her personality rights against deepfake pornographic contentGetty Images
Who has been named in Aishwarya Rai’s plea?
The petition lists a mix of websites, companies, and online platforms allegedly misusing her identity. These include sites like aishwaryaworld.com, apkpure.com, bollywoodteeshop.com, and kashcollectiveco.com, which sell merchandise using her photos without authorisation.
Other names include Etsy, the organisation Aishwarya Nation Wealth Motivational Speaker, a chatbot using her persona, and YouTube channels such as @NewNWSTamil and @Bollywood_CinemaTV07. Tech giant Google LLC has also been mentioned as a respondent, along with the Union Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and the Department of Telecommunications.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan moves to court over AI misuse of her imageGetty Images
What are personality rights and why do they matter?
Personality rights, also referred to as publicity rights, allow individuals to control the use of their name, likeness, image, voice, and unique style. In India, several film stars have turned to the courts to enforce these rights in recent years.
Anil Kapoor obtained a Delhi High Court order in 2023 to stop unauthorised use of his name, voice, and iconic catchphrase “jhakaas”. Amitabh Bachchan also secured protection against misuse of his persona. Jackie Shroff has taken similar steps. For Rai Bachchan, whose global profile extends far beyond Indian cinema, the petition is both a personal defence and a wider statement on protecting celebrities from digital exploitation.
When will the case be heard next?
The court has listed the matter before the joint registrar on 7 November 2025 and for a further hearing on 15 January 2026. Justice Tejas Karia noted that while broad reliefs were sought, injunctions may have to be issued individually against each defendant. The court is also considering whether specific URLs should be submitted for takedown under the Blocking and Screening Instructions framework.
Until then, an ad-interim injunction is expected to temporarily restrain platforms and individuals from exploiting Rai Bachchan’s identity.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan files case saying AI deepfake porn exploited her name and face without consentGetty Images
A wider concern about AI in Bollywood
The case brings to light the growing challenge of AI deepfakes in India’s entertainment industry. As technology becomes easier to access, actors and public figures face increasing risks of their image being manipulated without consent. For female stars in particular, the creation of pornographic deepfakes represents a profound threat to dignity and safety online.
By taking legal action, Rai Bachchan joins a growing list of celebrities using the courts to set boundaries on digital misuse. Her case may become a landmark moment in shaping India’s legal framework around personality rights in the age of artificial intelligence.
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Karisma Kapoor’s children accuse Priya Kapur of suppressing will in £2.51bn Sunjay Kapur property battle
Karisma Kapoor’s kids seek share in late father Sunjay Kapur’s £2.51bn (₹30,000 crore) estate
They accuse stepmother Priya Kapur of forging a will to take full control
Lawsuit requests recognition as Class I legal heirs and partition of assets
Interim plea filed to freeze Sunjay Kapur’s personal estate until case outcome
The inheritance battle over business tycoon Sunjay Kapur’s £2.51bn (₹30,000 crore) estate has reached the Indian court, with Karisma Kapoor’s children Samaira and Kiaan accusing their stepmother Priya Kapur of presenting a forged will. The suit has opened a new chapter in the Sunjay Kapur death case, less than three months after the auto components magnate and Sona Comstar chairman died during a polo match in Windsor, UK.
Karisma Kapoor’s children accuse Priya Kapur of suppressing will in £2.51bn Sunjay Kapur property battle Instagram/therealsamairakapoor
What is Karisma Kapoor’s children’s plea in the Delhi High Court?
Samaira (20) and Kiaan (14), represented through their mother Karisma Kapoor, have filed a civil suit demanding recognition as Class I legal heirs. They are seeking partition of their late father’s assets and want a one-fifth share each of his personal estate.
The plea also asks for a freeze on Sunjay Kapur’s personal assets until the matter is resolved, to prevent any transfer or sale. According to the suit, the children were close to their father and he had repeatedly assured them of their financial security by setting up ventures and trusts in their names.
The siblings have made serious allegations against their stepmother Priya, who was married to Sunjay Kapur at the time of his death and has a six-year-old son with him. They allege Priya, along with two associates, Dinesh Agarwal and Nitin Sharma, deliberately withheld the will for seven weeks before producing it at a family meeting on 30 July 2025.
The will, dated 21 March 2025, reportedly leaves Sunjay’s entire personal estate to Priya Kapur. The children claim this document is “forged and fabricated” and surrounded by “suspicious circumstances”, as neither the original nor a copy has been shown to them.
The suit also names Priya’s son, Sunjay’s mother Rani Kapur, and the purported executor of the will, businesswoman Shradha Suri Marwah, as defendants.
Who inherits if the court recognises Karisma Kapoor’s children as legal heirs?
Under Indian succession laws, if Samaira and Kiaan are recognised as Class I heirs, they would be entitled to equal shares along with other legal heirs of Sunjay Kapur. The children argue that their father had initiated business ventures in their names and named them as trust beneficiaries, promising his commitment to their financial future.
They also mentioned how Sunjay promised them long-term security through shared holidays, business discussions, and family interactions. The case, therefore, is not only about the contested will but also about whether those assurances translate into enforceable inheritance rights.
Sunjay Kapur, a US citizen and billionaire industrialist, was the chairman of Sona BLW Precision Forgings Ltd (Sona Comstar), one of India’s largest automotive component manufacturers. He inherited the group after the death of his father, Dr Surinder Kapur, in 2015 and expanded it into a global enterprise with operations across India, China, Mexico, Serbia, and the US.
According to Forbes, his net worth at the time of his death in June 2025 stood at £950 million (₹10,300 crore), though reports place the wider family estate at £2.51bn (₹30,000 crore). His sudden death at 53, officially ruled as natural due to heart disease, has left behind a major succession crisis within one of India’s most prominent business families.
The Indian court will now examine the validity of the alleged will and decide whether Karisma Kapoor’s children can be formally recognised as legal heirs. For now, the plaintiffs are pressing for interim relief to freeze assets while the matter is under consideration.
The case is, in fact, about the intersection of Bollywood and business, drawing public attention not only because of Karisma Kapoor’s celebrity status but also due to the massive wealth involved and the serious allegation of will forgery within one of India’s most high-profile families.
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Badshah hilariously mocks Donald Trump tariffs on stage with Bollywood lyric twist in New Jersey
Badshah joked about Trump’s tariffs during his Unfinished USA Tour in New Jersey.
Fans erupted as he altered the lyrics of his hit song ‘Tareefan’ to deliver the quip.
The rapper is continuing his North American tour with stops in Seattle, Dallas, and Chicago.
Badshah recently made headlines for his 20 kg weight loss and the success of his album Ek Tha Raja.
Indian rapper Badshah had fans in stitches during his New Jersey show as he took a cheeky jab at US President Donald Trump, cleverly linking the ongoing tariff debate with his hit song Tareefan. The unexpected moment added a fresh layer of political satire to his Unfinished USA Tour, proving once again that Badshah can seamlessly mix music with humour.
Badshah hilariously mocks Donald Trump tariffs on stage with Bollywood lyric twist in New Jersey Instagram/badboyshah
What did Badshah say about Donald Trump at the New Jersey concert?
During the high-energy performance, Badshah altered the Punjabi lyrics of Tareefan from Veere Di Wedding. Instead of singing “Kinniya Tareefan Chahidi Ae Tenu” (How many compliments do you want?), he quipped, “Kinni Tariff Chahidiye Trump Ko” (How much tariff does Trump want?). The crowd erupted with laughter and applause, showing their appreciation for his quick-witted social commentary.
The lyric change came shortly after Trump doubled tariffs on Indian goods, citing concerns over India’s imports of Russian oil. Badshah’s playful reference struck a chord with fans, with many praising the rapper’s ability to comment on current affairs while keeping the concert entertaining. Clips of the moment quickly circulated online, further amplifying the response.
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How is Badshah’s North American tour shaping up?
The New Jersey show is part of Badshah’s ongoing North American tour, which follows sold-out gigs in the UK, UAE, and Canada. Upcoming stops include the Bay Area, Seattle, Dallas, and Chicago. Known for his energetic performances, he often brings surprise celebrity appearances to the stage, with stars like Nora Fatehi and Mickey Singh joining him to thrill audiences.
Away from live performances, Badshah is celebrating the success of his album Ek Tha Raja, which features chart-topping tracks like ‘God Damn’, ‘Jawaab’, and ‘Khushnuma’. He has also been in the spotlight for his 20 kg weight loss, which he attributes to disciplined diet and exercise rather than any weight-loss medication like Ozempic.
Badshah’s witty on-stage jibe at Donald Trump shows his unique ability to combine entertainment with timely commentary, keeping fans engaged both in the venue and online. His North American tour continues to be a success, making each performance a talking point across social media.
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Ed Sheeran confirms he is moving to America with wife Cherry Seaborn and their two daughters
Ed Sheeran confirms he is relocating with wife Cherry Seaborn and their daughters
The move comes ahead of his extended US tour
Singer reveals love for Nashville and his future in country music
Sheeran says he culturally identifies as Irish despite Suffolk upbringing
Ed Sheeran moving to America has been confirmed by the star himself, with the singer explaining he will relocate with his family to settle in the US during his upcoming tour. The chart-topping musician, who has often spoken about his love for Nashville and country music, said he could not keep “dipping in and out” of the country while raising young children.
Ed Sheeran confirms he is moving to America with wife Cherry Seaborn and their two daughters Getty Images
Why is Ed Sheeran moving to America?
The Suffolk-based artist revealed his plans during an appearance on The 2 Johnnies Podcast. Sheeran explained that a long stretch of touring in the US meant it was not practical to keep flying back and forth from the UK.
“I’m just about to move to America. I feel like I might be the only person moving to America,” he said, acknowledging the political turbulence in the country but adding that touring and family life were the main reasons behind the move.
The singer, his wife Cherry Seaborn, and their daughters Lyra (5) and Jupiter (3) are expected to divide their time between New York and Nashville. Reports suggest he has purchased a £9 million (₹95 crore) apartment in Brooklyn, where he previously rented during his copyright trial in 2023.
Sheeran has made no secret of his admiration for Nashville, often calling it his “favourite city in the States”. Speaking on the Call Her Daddy podcast earlier this year, he explained: “When you transition to country, you can’t transition back. Nashville has always been my end goal.”
The Grammy-winning artist has hinted at moving into country music for several years, influenced by the city’s songwriting culture and welcoming music scene. He believes Nashville offers a space where celebrities can live more freely without constant attention.
Fans have long been fascinated by Sheeran’s sprawling Suffolk estate, nicknamed “Sheeranville”. The property includes two pubs, a chapel, and multiple houses. In his podcast interview, Sheeran explained that the private pubs allow him to enjoy time with friends without worrying about camera phones or social media exposure.
The chapel, meanwhile, has hosted carol services, family events, and even weddings for members of his security team. Sheeran also described it as a place to remember friends who have passed away. While the estate will remain in his portfolio, he suggested he would be spending most of his time in the US during the next phase of his career.
Ed Sheeran described himself as “culturally Irish” while preparing for his American relocationGetty Images
How does Sheeran identify culturally?
In addition to his music career, Sheeran has spoken about his strong Irish roots. Appearing on The Louis Theroux Podcast, he said: “I class my culture as Irish. My dad’s family has seven brothers and sisters. We’d spend all of our holidays in Ireland, and my first musical experiences were with trad music in the house.”
Although born in Halifax and raised in Suffolk, the singer said his upbringing was steeped in Irish culture, shaping both his personal identity and his artistry. “I feel like just because I was born in Britain doesn’t necessarily mean I have to just be British,” he said.
Ed Sheeran says his long tour schedule means the family will “settle” in the StatesGetty Images
For Sheeran, the move to America is both a personal and professional shift. As he prepares to settle with his family across the Atlantic, the move reflects not only the demands of his career but also his plans to embrace country music and even a new cultural chapter.
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The Bads of Bollywood trailer lands with bold humour drama and unexpected industry jabs
Aryan Khan makes his directorial debut with Netflix series
The Ba**ds of Bollywood trailer teases starry cameos, including Shah Rukh Khan
Bobby Deol, Lakshya and Sahher Bambba headline the cast
Series premieres worldwide on 18 September
The much-awaited The Ba**ds of Bollywood trailer has finally dropped, marking Aryan Khan’s official entry into the industry as a director. Released by Netflix, the series takes viewers deep into the glamour and chaos of Bollywood, with a fresh satirical spin. Featuring a special cameo by Shah Rukh Khan, it highlights both the allure and the darker realities of the industry, promising a bold new narrative.
The Bads of Bollywood trailer lands with bold humour drama and unexpected industry jabs Netflix Screengrab
What is The Ba**ds of Bollywood about?
The seven-episode series follows Aasmaan Singh, played by newcomer Lakshya, an ambitious outsider determined to make it big in Hindi cinema. With the support of his best friend Parvaiz (Raghav Juyal), his sharp-tongued manager Sanya (Anya Singh), and his close-knit family, Aasmaan sets out to conquer the film world.
However, the path is far from easy. Aasmaan crosses paths with superstar Ajay Talvar played by Bobby Deol, who becomes his biggest rival when Aasmaan is cast opposite Ajay’s daughter, Karishma (Sahher Bambba). Power struggles, politics, and egos collide, creating a narrative that reflects both the dreams and pitfalls of Bollywood.
Apart from Lakshya and Bobby Deol, the show features Mona Singh, Manoj Pahwa, Vijayant Kohli, and Raghav Juyal in pivotal roles. The Ba**ds of Bollywood also boasts an impressive line-up of celebrity cameos. Viewers can spot Ranveer Singh, Sara Ali Khan, Karan Johar, Disha Patani, and SS Rajamouli, along with rapper Badshah.
The highlight of the trailer remains Shah Rukh Khan’s appearance, where his character is mistakenly referred to as rapper Badshah, leading to a humorous exchange. His cameo, produced under Gauri Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment, adds to the anticipation surrounding the series.
When will The Ba**ds of Bollywood release on Netflix?
The series will stream globally on 18 September exclusively on Netflix. With its sharp one-liners, self-aware humour, and over-the-top Bollywood drama, it has already generated massive buzz online. The timing of the release, close to the festive season, is expected to draw large audiences across India and the UK.
The project represents Aryan Khan’s long-awaited creative debut, years after speculation about whether he would act or direct. By choosing to step behind the camera rather than in front of it, he has carved out his own space in the industry while still carrying forward the Red Chillies Entertainment legacy.
The soundtrack, produced in collaboration with T-Series, features compositions by Shashwat Sachdev with guest tracks by Anirudh Ravichander. The first single, Badli Si Hawa Hai sung by Arijit Singh and Amira Gill, has already gained traction on streaming platforms. Another track, Tu Pehli Tu Aakhri, also showcases Arijit Singh’s vocals, adding emotional depth to the narrative.
Music has always been central to Bollywood storytelling, and Aryan Khan’s series appears to embrace that tradition while adding a modern twist.
Aryan Khan’s choice of subject matter is bold. Rather than a conventional launchpad, The Ba**ds of Bollywood presents a satirical, behind-the-scenes look at the industry that made his family a household name. By tackling themes of nepotism, politics, and ambition, the series resonates with ongoing debates within Bollywood.
For fans, the chance to see Shah Rukh Khan in a cameo under his son’s direction adds an extra layer of excitement. For critics, Aryan Khan’s decision to focus on direction reflects a desire to carve his own identity, setting him apart from the expected path of acting.