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.
Jury in Sean "Diddy" Combs’ sex trafficking and racketeering trial sends fifth note to judge.
Concern raised about one juror’s ability to follow instructions; judge advises deliberations to continue.
Jurors request transcripts of Cassie Ventura and Daniel Phillip’s testimonies.
Combs faces five charges, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking, and could face life in prison.
Jurors in the high-profile criminal trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs have raised new concerns as deliberations continue, sending a fifth note to the judge questioning whether one juror can follow instructions. The jury also asked to review key testimonies from singer Cassie Ventura and witness Daniel Phillip, signalling the complexity and weight of the decision they face.
Diddy trial jury raises alarm over juror and demands key witness testimoniesGetty Images
Jury seeks witness transcripts in Diddy sex trafficking trial
On the second day of deliberations, the jury asked to review four specific pieces of testimony: three from Combs’ ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura and one from male stripper Daniel Phillip. The requests relate to critical events, including an incident at the InterContinental Hotel and a Cannes Film Festival encounter.
The defence and prosecution are currently negotiating which parts of these testimonies should be submitted to the jury. Combs, who has denied all charges, remained in court as the latest note was read and legal teams reconvened.
The jury’s focus on testimony details suggests they are carefully weighing evidence linked to the most serious allegations, including coerced sexual encounters allegedly orchestrated by Combs as part of a broader racketeering conspiracy.
Marc Agnifilo, attorney for Sean "Diddy" Combs, arrives at federal courtGetty Images
Concerns over juror raise questions during deliberations
Just hours into the first day of deliberations, the jury sent a note to Judge Arun Subramanian expressing concern that one juror “cannot follow” legal instructions. That juror, reportedly a scientist by profession, had earlier described the trial as a “good break” during voir dire.
Judge Subramanian instructed the jury to continue deliberating, reminding them of their duty to follow court instructions. Legal experts say such internal jury issues can complicate proceedings but are not uncommon in high-stakes trials.
Sean 'Puffy' Combs arrives at Manhattan Supreme Court in 2001Getty Images
If found guilty, Combs could face a minimum of 15 years and up to life in prison. The charges include racketeering, sex trafficking, and transporting women for prostitution. The trial, now in its final phase, has drawn intense public interest and influencer coverage outside the Manhattan courthouse.
By clicking the 'Subscribe’, you agree to receive our newsletter, marketing communications and industry
partners/sponsors sharing promotional product information via email and print communication from Garavi Gujarat
Publications Ltd and subsidiaries. You have the right to withdraw your consent at any time by clicking the
unsubscribe link in our emails. We will use your email address to personalize our communications and send you
relevant offers. Your data will be stored up to 30 days after unsubscribing.
Contact us at data@amg.biz to see how we manage and store your data.
Diljit Dosanjh in a still from Sardaar Ji 3 set for overseas release only
Sardaar Ji 3 rakes in £275,000 (₹3 crore) on opening day in Pakistan, surpassing Sultan.
Diljit Dosanjh responds to backlash: “When we shot the film, everything was fine.”
Film was not released in India due to controversy over Pakistani actress Hania Aamir’s casting.
Worldwide opening weekend collection touches £1.6 million (₹18.1 crore).
The Punjabi-language horror-comedy Sardaar Ji 3, starring Diljit Dosanjh and Pakistani actress Hania Aamir, has become the highest-grossing Indian film ever released in Pakistan. Despite being banned in India, the film grossed £275,000 (₹3 crore) on its opening day and £825,000 (₹9 crore) over the first weekend in Pakistan alone.
The movie was released internationally on 27 June but did not receive clearance in India due to political tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack. Its success across the border has reignited debates around cross-border cultural collaborations and censorship.
Sardaar Ji 3 Pakistan box office collection sets new benchmark
Despite ongoing tensions and a ban on Indian films in Pakistan since 2019, Sardaar Ji 3 was cleared by the Pakistani censor board and released nationwide. The opening day collections broke the previous record held by Salman Khan’s Sultan, which had earned £265,000 (₹2.9 crore) on day one in 2016.
Nadeem Mandviwalla, a leading cinema distributor in Karachi, called it “the best opening for any Indian or Pakistani film in recent years,” adding that school holidays and the lack of quality cinema had contributed to packed halls.
Diljit Dosanjh shared videos of audience reactions from Pakistan on his Instagram, celebrating the overwhelming support while refraining from commenting directly on the boycott in India.
Diljit Dosanjh defends overseas release, says “situation changed after shoot”
The controversy stems from the casting of Hania Aamir, which violated the Indian film workers’ ban on Pakistani artists. Actor Naseeruddin Shah publicly defended Dosanjh, criticising attempts to scapegoat him for political gain.
Speaking in an interview, Dosanjh clarified, “We shot the film in February when everything was fine. After the attack, the producers knew they couldn’t release it in India. They’ve spent a lot on this film, and releasing it overseas is the only way to recover costs.”
Ranbir Kapoor calls Lord Ram the most meaningful role of his career during his final-day speech.
Ramayana: Part 1 shoot wraps after an extensive schedule led by director Nitesh Tiwari.
Ravi Dubey, who plays Lakshman, is seen sharing an emotional hug with Ranbir on set.
The film is set to release in cinemas during Diwali 2026, followed by Part 2 in 2027.
The filming of Ramayana: Part 1, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, has officially come to an end. Ranbir Kapoor, who plays Lord Ram in the ambitious mythological film, delivered a heartfelt speech during the wrap ceremony, calling it the most significant role of his career. A now-viral behind-the-scenes video captures Ranbir hugging his co-star Ravi Dubey, who plays Lakshman, as the cast and crew celebrated the emotional milestone.
Producer Namit Malhotra reveals how AI will make Ramayana resonate globally with native-language realism IMDB/Reddit
'
Ranbir Kapoor calls Lord Ram his most meaningful role
In a clip circulating on social media, Ranbir Kapoor can be seen standing before the full cast and crew on the final day of the shoot. Addressing the team, he expressed deep gratitude for being part of what he called a “once-in-a-lifetime” project. “Portraying Lord Ram has been the most meaningful role of my life,” he said, standing beside Ravi Dubey, who portrays Lakshman. Ranbir also thanked co-stars Sai Pallavi, Yash, Sunny Deol, and others, acknowledging their contribution to the massive production.
— (@)
Director Nitesh Tiwari also addressed the gathering with an emotional speech, which was met with cheers and applause. Videos from the day show a close-knit crew cutting a cake and capturing candid moments, one of which was Ranbir embracing Ravi in a warm hug.
Ramayana Part 1 set for Diwali 2026 release
With filming now complete, Ramayana: Part 1 is set to enter post-production. The star-studded cast includes Ranbir Kapoor as Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, Kajal Aggarwal as Mandodari, and Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi. The film is being mounted on a grand scale, with Oscar-winning VFX studio DNEG handling visual effects.
— (@)
The first instalment is expected to hit theatres during Diwali 2026, with Part 2 planned for a Diwali 2027 release. An official poster reveal is expected on 3 July, as anticipation builds for what is shaping up to be one of Indian cinema’s most ambitious mythological sagas.
Keep ReadingShow less
Ensemble Festival 2025 returns to Royal Docks with bold new outdoor shows
Ensemble Festival 2025 to be held on 26–27 July at Royal Victoria Docks, London.
Free outdoor event featuring circus, dance, street art and physical theatre.
Highlights include new works by Sadiq Ali, Vidya Thirunarayan and Miss High Leg Kick.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of organisers Certain Blacks.
This summer, London’s historic Royal Victoria Docks will transform into a hub of vibrant outdoor performance as Ensemble Festival 2025 returns on 26 and 27 July. Presented by arts organisation Certain Blacks, the free weekend event features an interesting line-up of new circus, dance and street theatre works, while also celebrating a decade of championing diverse and underrepresented artists.
Set across two full days, the Ensemble Festival 2025 programme includes exciting new commissions such as Tell Me by Sadiq Ali Co., a Chinese pole circus piece tackling HIV stigma, and Holy Dirt, a visceral collaboration between director David Glass and Indian artist Vidya Thirunarayan.
Vidya Thirunarayan in Holy Dirt brings myth and ritual into raw physical form The Clay Connection
The festival also sees the return of audience favourite Miss High Leg Kick with Palais de Danse, a multi-sensory throwback to the 1950s dance hall era. Nandita Shankardass’s Roots to Rise brings together Indian classical movement with contemporary dance to explore memory, ancestry and women’s resilience. Other acts range from aerial theatre in Hug by Levantes Dance Theatre to climate-themed installations like Hydropunk by Artizani and Tenderfoot Theatre.
Sadiq Ali's pole performance explores HIV stigma with athletic graceLuke Whitcomb
Certain Blacks marks 10 years of championing diversity
2025 is a milestone year for Certain Blacks, the East London-based organisation behind Ensemble Festival. Known for spotlighting talent from across socio-economic, ethnic, gender and neurodiverse backgrounds, Certain Blacks has become a vital force in the UK arts scene.
Sadiq Ali delivers a daring upside-down act in his powerful show Luke Whitcomb
“Our aim has always been to bring diverse artists from the margins into the mainstream,” said artistic director Clive Lyttle. “This year’s Ensemble Festival reflects that, with a powerful mix of voices and perspectives, many being showcased on this scale for the first time.”
Ensemble Festival forms part of Without Walls, a major UK network that supports ground-breaking outdoor performance. As one of its partners, Certain Blacks plays a key role in shaping new work for public spaces across the country.
Dancers in Nandita Shankardass’s Roots to Rise connect movement with memoryJohn Evans
The festival remains accessible with step-free access and dedicated facilities, and also continues its commitment to sustainability with green practices across production.
TikTok is testing a new one-way messaging feature called bulletin boards.
Jonas Brothers, People magazine, and Paris Saint-Germain among early testers.
The feature mimics Instagram’s broadcast channels but may expand further.
Only creators can post; followers can react with emojis but not comment.
TikTok is trialling a new feature called bulletin boards, allowing select creators and brands to send direct broadcast-style messages to their followers, similar to Instagram’s broadcast channels. The Jonas Brothers, football club Paris Saint-Germain, and People magazine are among the first to test the tool, which shows TikTok’s growing focus on creator-fan intimacy beyond its traditional feed.
TikTok’s new tool mimics Instagram’s broadcast channels
Unlike regular TikTok posts that rely on algorithms or viral reach, bulletin boards aim to offer a more direct communication path. Only the creator can post updates, which may include text, videos, or images, while followers can respond with emoji reactions but cannot comment. The format is clearly inspired by Instagram’s broadcast channels, launched in 2023, where artists and influencers routinely share behind-the-scenes content and personal messages.
The new bulletin system was first spotted by marketing strategist Christina Garnett, who shared screenshots via Threads, showing how fans are invited to follow these boards. Once subscribed, users receive notifications whenever a creator sends out a new update.
— (@)
Big-name creators signal broader rollout plans
Early involvement from mainstream acts like the Jonas Brothers indicates TikTok is positioning bulletin boards as a premium tool for high-engagement fanbases. With creators constantly seeking ways to reach audiences without relying on the platform’s unpredictable feed algorithm, the feature could become a valuable line of direct communication.
It is also a clear move in the current trend of social platforms “borrowing” each other’s best features: Instagram mimicked TikTok’s short-form videos with Reels, while TikTok introduced Stories in 2022. Now, it is returning the favour with this broadcast-style tool.
People's Bulletin boardICYMI
The key question remains whether TikTok will differentiate its version with interactive additions like polls, which Instagram already offers. But for now, bulletin boards could offer artists and brands a streamlined way to share announcements, tour updates, and exclusive previews straight to their superfans’ inboxes.