AUDIENCE MEMBERS TALK ABOUT THE ICONIC TELEVISION SERIAL AND WHAT MADE IT SO SPECIAL
by ASJAD NAZIR
SMASH hit TV serial Madhubala – Ek Ishq Ek Junoon ran from 2012 until 2014 and entertained audiences around the world for 648 episodes.
The ratings winner revolving around the Indian film industry had stunning turns from TV superstars Vivian Dsena and Drashti Dhami in the lead roles. The romantic drama recently made a triumphant return with Colors TV re-running the series for audiences. Although new audiences are now forming a connection with Madhubala – Ek Ishq Ek Junoon, the strongest bond remains with fans who turned it into an iconic show during the original run.
With that in mind, Eastern Eye asked some of the most die-hard fans on Twitter what makes the timeless show so special. There were a flood of replies and here are some of the best, which capture the essence of a magical series.
@17aakansha: Madhubala made me fall in love with Indian TV at a time when I didn’t watch any serials. Madhubala was just something else and the chemistry between the leads was mind-blowing.
@alku_par: Shows like Madhubala – Ek Ishq Ek Junoon are made once in a decade. Shows come and go, but none can replace the charm and uniqueness of Madhubala.
@ayshahabib11: Well, I only joined Twitter for this show. I remember my craze for this serial. Drashti Dhami and Vivian Dsena delivered iconic performances in this one. The storyline, acting, one-liners, on-screen chemistry, music and everything was perfect.
@ArthiRavi11: The unique concept of exploring films on TV attracted me to this show. Madhu’s determination, perseverance and undying faith in her partner moved me a lot. I still miss the show.
@ChahatAv: The uniqueness of this story and Vivian Dsena makes it an iconic show of Indian TV. No one can replace his character RK from our hearts. His charm, acting, dialogues, style, looks, performance and screen presence are the life of this show.
@CobanNecla: The most beautiful series that I have seen, the most beautiful couple and the best chemistry. I love them very much. The series is very different in terms of quality.
@DrashtiDhami_AF: Drashti Dhami was the perfect choice to be Madhubala. Her acting was just super amazing. She is the heart of the show. No one can beat her acting level. Her chemistry with her co-actor was epic. Her high-level emotions and everything was wonderful.
@GauriiPawar: I loved the sizzling chemistry in this epic show! I think no one can beat them. I was mesmerised by Drashti’s acting in Madhubala. The way Drashti put emotions into Madhu’s character was just wonderful. She is the real Madhubala and queen of Indian TV.
@love_my_DD: It’s a real ‘hate’ turning into ‘love’ kind of story. The leads’ chemistry was unbeatable. This was my first fiction show in many years and Drashti amazed me in the lead role and displayed every shade of Madhubala.
@ manalvivo: Solid storyline with great tracks that built up brilliantly. It had outstanding dialogues, though most of the time not necessary, due to the hero and heroine’s legendary expressions. The iconic characters of RK and Madhubala showed beautiful immortal love that lasted till that last breath. The flawless harmony and sizzling chemistry between Vivian and Drashti have no parallel.
@mayra_thakur94: This show is something else. The lead couple had sizzling and passionate chemistry, which was really unbeatable. They had amazing performances and Drashti as Madhubala was exceptionally fantastic in the show.
@MemmedovaZara: The reason I watched my first Indian series is because of the wonderful chemistry between Vivian Dsena and Drashti Dhami. This duo reflected their feelings very well to the audience with super performances. Love them both.
@ NanRanee1: I watched Madhubala for the first time from Thailand. The role of Madhubala fascinated me and I felt every emotion. She did so well and so did Vivian in the role of RK. Drashti, especially, attracted me to watch without getting bored.
@nesbeth_rani:Madhubala was a masterpiece. Vivian Dsena and Drashti Dhami were excellent actors who made audiences feel their love, passion and chemistry. Their dances were enchanting. Madhubala was like a complete movie consisting of romance, drama, action and comedy. It lacked nothing. It was truly an outstanding love story that gained millions of fans around the world.
@Nisreen_N7: The perfect performance presented to audiences. The unique harmony and mesmerising on-screen chemistry of the leads made everyone fall in love with this couple.
@PatiPraja_:Madhubala was such a beautifully written character. Her unwavering love and solidarity for her close ones, sacrifice, maturity, fighting spirit and compassion, all made her a very special character for us.
@sarbari643: This unique show was different to the typical serials on Indian television. What I loved most was the unpredictability of Vivian Dsena’s character RK. Almost all heroes were ideal sons and husbands, but his rude ruthless egoistic role smashed that ideology. RK proved grey heroes can be irresistible.
@scor_vir_nacci: The vintage touch, larger-than-life characters, special nuances in episodes, bang on dialogues and intense chemistry between the lead characters RK and Madhubala. I loved the way Late AK Hangal sir’s cameo introduced Madhubala.
@Viviandsena125: This series is marvellous and engraved in my heart. The chemistry between Drashti Dhami and Vivian Dsena is wonderful. His style and manner of speech was charming. I thank everyone who contributed to the production of this terrific series.
@VivianDsena_Tm: The storyline was new and it was not the typical boring drama, which are repeated millions of times on Indian television. All the actors were the right choices and Vivian smashed the role.
@ VivianFanPage01: Vivian Dsena was a driving force of the show as RK. His grey shades and dialogues made us go crazy. He was the perfect anti-hero. His love, passion, madness and attitude had no bounds. Everything was epic. RK is a ‘once in a blue moon’ made character.
Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap criticised Vijay Subramaniam for backing the AI-made film Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal.
Kashyap said the project undermines creativity and betrays the artists represented by Subramaniam’s agency.
Vikramaditya Motwane also expressed disapproval, warning of AI sidelining writers and directors.
The AI film is produced by Abundantia Entertainment and Collective Media Network, with a 2026 release planned.
Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has sharply criticised the upcoming project Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal, promoted as India’s first fully AI-made film. The director targeted Vijay Subramaniam, head of Collective Artists Network, accusing him of betraying the very writers, actors and directors his agency represents. The backlash follows recent controversy over AI’s use in altering the Tamil release of Aanand L Rai’s Raanjhanaa.
Anurag Kashyap has condemned the AI film Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal for undermining artists Getty Images/ Instagram/abundantiaent
What is Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal ?
Earlier this week, production houses Abundantia Entertainment and Collective Media Network unveiled the poster of Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal. Marketed as the country’s first “Made-in-AI, Made-in-India” film, it is scheduled to release on Hanuman Jayanti 2026.
Producers claim the project will combine mythology with modern innovation, reimagining Lord Hanuman’s story for global audiences. They described the initiative as a tribute to India’s cultural legacy, brought alive through technology.
However, the announcement triggered heated debate within the industry. While backers framed the film as innovation, critics argue it risks erasing the role of human storytellers in cinema.
Anurag Kashyap, known for outspoken views, voiced his anger on Instagram after the poster launch. Addressing Subramaniam directly, he wrote:
“Here is the man heading an agency representing artists, writers and directors, now producing a film made by AI. End of the day, all these agencies are only interested in making money off you. Any actor or anyone who calls themselves artists and has a spine should be questioning him or leaving the agency.”
The filmmaker went further, describing the project as “the future for the spineless and cowardly so-called artists in the Hindi film industry.” His remarks reflect wider concerns that agencies profit from talent while backing projects that remove creative workers from the process.
Kashyap has previously worked on films tackling issues of power, exploitation and authenticity in cinema. His latest outburst adds to growing resistance against AI in filmmaking.
Kashyap was not alone in condemning the move. Director Vikramaditya Motwane, who recently explored AI themes in his project CTRL, reposted the announcement on Instagram with the blunt caption: “And so it begins. Who TF needs writers and directors when it’s ‘Made in AI’?”
Motwane’s reaction highlights a fear shared by many in the industry: that studios may prioritise cost-cutting AI tools over human creativity. His remarks echo discontent following Raanjhanaa’s AI-altered ending, which led to protests from Aanand L Rai’s team.
The Chiranjeevi Hanuman backlash has therefore become symbolic of a larger struggle, of filmmakers fighting to safeguard artistic integrity in an era of technological disruption.
Filmmaker Vikramaditya Motwane criticised the AI project and warned of the threat to writers and directors Instagram Screengrab/motwayne
What has the producer said in defence of AI films?
Vijay Subramaniam, head of Collective Artists Network and producer of Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal, defended the film at its launch. He argued that the project is not replacing tradition but enhancing it, describing it as “a unique opportunity to reimagine cultural storytelling for audiences who value both heritage and innovation.”
Supporters of the film insist that AI technology can make epic stories more accessible and visually ambitious without the usual budget constraints. Yet the criticism from Kashyap and Motwane shows strong resistance within Bollywood towards projects perceived as sidelining human talent.
The debate reflects a broader global conversation on AI’s role in creative industries, from Hollywood writers’ strikes to controversies in Indian cinema. With Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal set for release in 2026, the clash between technological innovation and artistic integrity is likely to intensify.
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Shah Rukh Khan supports son Aryan Khan during the Netflix launch of his debut series
Aryan Khan made his first public speech at the launch of his Netflix series The Ba**ds of Bollywood.
The debutant director admitted he was nervous and joked about keeping his father Shah Rukh Khan as backup.
The show stars Sahher Bambba, Lakshya, Bobby Deol, Mona Singh and Manoj Pahwa.
The Ba**ds of Bollywood will release on Netflix on 18 September.
Shah Rukh Khan’s son Aryan Khan stepped into the spotlight at the preview launch of his directorial debut The Ba**ds of Bollywood. Delivering his first-ever public speech, Aryan openly admitted he was “extremely nervous,” a moment that has quickly drawn attention. Speaking with a mix of honesty and humour, Aryan said he had been rehearsing for days and even carried backup notes in case the teleprompter failed. The much-anticipated Netflix series marks his debut as a director after four years of preparation.
Aryan Khan makes his first public speech at The Ba**ds of Bollywood* preview in Mumbai Getty Images
What did Aryan Khan say in his first speech?
Aryan Khan confessed that facing the media for the first time left him anxious. “I’ve been practising this speech for two days and three nights,” he said, before joking that he had even written it down on paper in case of a power cut. He added, “Aur agar iss sab ke baad bhi mujhse galti ho jaaye toh papa hain na (And even then if I make a mistake, my dad is here).”
In a lighthearted moment, Shah Rukh Khan joined in by showing a copy of Aryan’s speech taped to his back, drawing laughter from the audience. Aryan ended his address by requesting forgiveness if he stumbled, saying, “This is my first time.”
The Netflix series The Ba**ds of Bollywood is described as a high-energy, stylised drama set against the backdrop of the film industry. It features Lakshya and Sahher Bambba in lead roles, with Bobby Deol, Mona Singh, Manoj Pahwa, Raghav Juyal, and Anya Singh in pivotal parts.
The series, produced by Red Chillies Entertainment, also features cameos from Salman Khan, Ranveer Singh and Karan Johar. According to Aryan, the project took four years of development, with “hundreds of discussions and thousands of takes” before reaching its final form.
Netflix has confirmed that The Ba**ds of Bollywood will begin streaming worldwide on 18 September. The platform has promoted it as a fresh take on the glitz and chaos of the industry, promising stylised visuals, sharp humour, and a look at ambition and rivalry in the world of cinema.
For Aryan, the series represents not just a professional debut but also the culmination of years of behind-the-scenes work. He said at the launch: “We’ve tried to bring entertainment to people everywhere, and I want to thank everyone who made this possible.”
— (@)
How did fans react to Aryan Khan’s speech?
Clips of Aryan Khan’s speech quickly spread online, with many fans pointing out his striking resemblance to his father’s manner of speaking. Comments like “Sounds just like SRK” and “Aryan’s voice = SRK’s voice” dominated social media reactions.
The warm reception suggests that Aryan’s entry into filmmaking has sparked high curiosity, both because of his family legacy and the scale of the project. With his directorial debut soon arriving on Netflix, expectations are running high.
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Charli XCX confirms her next chapter with upcoming A24 film The Moment
Charli XCX ends her Brat era with a South Korean festival performance
Pop star leaves fans emotional with farewell message on stage screen
Teases upcoming A24 film The Moment based on her own concept
Singer shifts focus from music to film after blockbuster success
Charli XCX has officially closed the chapter on her acclaimed Brat era with an emotional final performance at South Korea’s One Universe Festival, where she also teased her next project. The British pop star, who dominated global charts with Brat, used her farewell show to surprise fans with a teaser for her upcoming A24 film The Moment.
Charli XCX confirms her next chapter with upcoming A24 film The Moment Getty Images
What happened at Charli XCX’s final Brat concert?
On 15 August, Charli XCX took the stage in Gwacheon-si for her last headlining performance linked to Brat, the album that turned her from cult favourite to mainstream force. As she wrapped her set, a huge screen behind her displayed the words: “Please don’t let it be over.”
The message struck a chord with fans, who had been following her whirlwind year of success. Shortly after, she posted a clip on Instagram showing a film slate marked The Moment, confirming her move towards cinema.
Why is the Brat era significant in Charli XCX’s career?
Released in June 2024, Brat became Charli’s most successful album to date, peaking at No. 3 on the Billboard 200. Its lime-green cover, hyperpop energy, and cultural reach made it more than just a record. From influencing U.S. political campaigns to dominating TikTok trends, Brat marked a turning point in the perception of experimental pop.
Charli herself admitted she never expected the record’s impact. Speaking earlier this year, she said: “I don’t really feel the pressure because you can never do the same thing twice. My next record will probably be a flop, which I’m down for to be honest.”
What do we know about Charli XCX’s new film The Moment ?
The most talked-about reveal from her farewell concert was her upcoming A24 project The Moment. The film, based on her own concept, signals a bold shift into storytelling on screen. While details remain under wraps, fans online are already speculating about its potential to capture the same disruptive energy that made Brat so influential.
This is not Charli’s first step into acting. She is also set to appear in several upcoming films including I Want Your Sex with Olivia Wilde and Cooper Hoffman, the satire Sacrifice with Chris Evans and Anya Taylor-Joy, and a fantasy adaptation of 100 Nights of Hero.
Charli XCX closes Brat era with final show and teases new film ‘The Moment’Getty Images
What’s next for Charli XCX after Brat ?
With music milestones behind her, Charli XCX is turning her attention to film while still maintaining her reputation as an artist. She recently collaborated with Japanese horror director Takashi Miike for a new project and continues to expand her acting portfolio.
On a personal note, the singer also married The 1975’s drummer George Daniel in London last month. The wedding was a private ceremony at Hackney Town Hall, attended by close friends and family.
Charli XCX and George Daniel’s wedding photos spark a new alt-pop moodboard Instagram/charli_xcx
As she steps into a new creative phase, fans may have to wait before hearing another record, but Charli’s latest pivot suggests she is just as committed to breaking boundaries in cinema as she has been in music.
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Quentin Tarantino confirms his first West End play debut in London
Quentin Tarantino says his first-ever play will premiere in London’s West End.
The director confirmed the script is complete and work begins in January 2026.
He plans to relocate with his family to the UK during the production.
Tarantino hinted the play could also become his final film if it succeeds.
Hollywood filmmaker Quentin Tarantino has confirmed he is bringing his West End play debut to London, marking his first step into theatre. Speaking on The Church of Tarantino podcast, the Oscar-winning director of Pulp Fiction and Kill Bill revealed that the script is finished and that he will begin work on the project in early 2026. The move signals a new chapter for the 62-year-old, who said he intends to spend two years on the production and even relocate to the UK with his wife, singer Daniella Pick, and their two children.
Quentin Tarantino confirms his first West End play debut in London Getty Images
What has Quentin Tarantino said about his West End play?
Tarantino told the podcast that the untitled play is “all written” and confirmed it will be his next project. He explained that rehearsals and production will begin in January 2026, with the expectation that the show could premiere by 2027.
“It’ll probably be a year before it’s in front of an audience,” he said, adding that he is preparing for the play to be a success. “If it’s a flop, then I will be done very quickly.”
The filmmaker also suggested that if the West End production is well received, it could later be adapted into a film, potentially serving as the tenth and final movie of his career.
Tarantino plans to relocate with his wife Daniella Pick and children to the UKGetty Images
Why is Tarantino moving to the UK?
The director revealed he is planning to move to England with his family for the duration of the play’s production. Tarantino, who currently lives in Tel Aviv, said the relocation would allow him to closely oversee the project.
He explained that he intends to spend the rest of 2025 with his family before shifting focus entirely to his West End debut. “We’ll start the ball rolling on it in January… it’s going to take a year and a half to two years of my life,” he told the podcast.
Reports have also pointed out that staging a production in London is more financially viable than Broadway, where higher costs often limit new works.
Rehearsals for Tarantino’s West End debut are set to begin in January 2026Getty Images
Has Quentin Tarantino worked in theatre before?
Although this will be Tarantino’s official West End play debut, it is not his first experience with theatre. In 2015, following a script leak, he staged The Hateful Eight as a live reading. He also adapted his 2019 film Once Upon a Time in Hollywood into a play, showing his interest in moving stories from screen to stage.
His new project is expected to be a comedy, although no storyline or cast details have been announced yet.
Quentin Tarantino says the play could also be adapted into his final filmGetty Images
What else is Tarantino working on?
Alongside the play, Tarantino has been busy with film projects. He wrote the script for The Adventures of Cliff Booth, a Netflix sequel to Once Upon a Time in Hollywood centred on Brad Pitt’s stuntman character. The film is being directed by David Fincher, whom Tarantino praised as “one of the two best directors working today.”
He also revealed why he abandoned his planned project The Movie Critic, saying: “Every Tarantino title promises so much, except The Movie Critic. Who wants to see a movie about a critic?”
Quentin Tarantino revealed his theatre script is already completeGetty Images
Tarantino has long maintained he intends to retire after making ten films, counting Kill Bill Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 as a single entry. With nine films already completed, the success of his West End debut could shape how he closes his directing career.
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Kareena Kapoor once shared she felt “normal” in her relationship with Shahid Kapoor
Kareena Kapoor once shared that she loved feeling “normal” in her Shahid Kapoor relationship.
The actress said ordinary moments with Shahid mattered more than grand gestures.
Kareena admitted she never rode his bike due to fear of heights and speed.
Their chemistry in Jab We Met remains one of Bollywood’s most iconic pairings.
Kareena Kapoor Khan has opened up in the past about her Shahid Kapoor relationship, and a resurfaced throwback interview is once again catching attention. The actress, who dated Shahid in the mid-2000s before marrying Saif Ali Khan, reflected on the simplicity she valued most in their bond. Speaking to Cosmopolitan, Kareena admitted that despite being one of Bollywood’s most high-profile couples, what she cherished most was the ability to live an ordinary life away from the spotlight.
Kareena Kapoor once shared she felt “normal” in her relationship with Shahid Kapoor Getty Images
What did Kareena Kapoor say about her Shahid Kapoor relationship?
In the candid conversation, Kareena revealed that the best part of her Shahid Kapoor relationship was the sense of normalcy it brought to her otherwise hectic life. She explained, “I get to be normal and do normal things,” highlighting how meaningful it was to experience everyday moments with the Kabir Singh star.
At the time of the interview, the couple were still in the early stages of dating. Kareena admitted they were protective of their romance and preferred to keep it private due to their demanding schedules. Despite the pressures of fame, the actress said the simplicity of being able to enjoy little things together stood out the most in her memory.
Kareena Kapoor admitted she never joined Shahid on his bike due to fear of speedGetty Images
Why did Kareena avoid Shahid Kapoor’s bike rides?
During the same interview, Kareena also confessed that she never rode with Shahid on his motorbike. She explained that she has always had a fear of heights and speed, which kept her away from the adventurous side of her then-boyfriend. While Shahid was often seen zipping around on two wheels, Kareena admitted that she preferred to keep both feet on the ground.
The revelation offered fans a glimpse into their real-life dynamic, showing that beyond the glamorous image, the couple had everyday quirks just like anyone else.
Kareena Kapoor reveals what she cherished most about Shahid Kapoor relationship in resurfaced interviewInstagram/shah.idkareena
When did Kareena and Shahid Kapoor break up?
Kareena Kapoor and Shahid Kapoor’s relationship came to an end in 2007, the same year they delivered their career-defining hit, Imtiaz Ali’s Jab We Met. Their on-screen chemistry as Geet and Aditya is still considered one of Bollywood’s most beloved romantic pairings.
After the split, the former couple reunited professionally in Milenge Milenge (2010), a remake of Hollywood’s Serendipity. However, unlike Jab We Met, the film failed to make an impact at the box office.
Both stars eventually moved on in their personal lives. Kareena married actor Saif Ali Khan in 2012, and the couple now have two sons. Shahid tied the knot with Mira Rajput in 2015, and they also have two children.
Kareena Kapoor says everyday moments with Shahid Kapoor mattered more than glamour in resurfaced interviewGetty Images
What are Kareena Kapoor and Shahid Kapoor working on now?
On the work front, Kareena Kapoor was recently seen in Rohit Shetty’s Singham Again. She is now set to collaborate with filmmaker Meghna Gulzar for her upcoming drama Daayra, which also stars Malayalam superstar Prithviraj Sukumaran. Shahid Kapoor, meanwhile, was last seen in Deva and has now reunited with his mentor Vishal Bhardwaj for an untitled action-thriller.
Even years after their breakup, Kareena’s throwback remarks on her Shahid Kapoor relationship continue to intrigue fans, showing the lasting impact of their romance.