SANJAY SERAN DISCUSSES HIS BAND, RADIO SHOW AND UNIQUE INSPIRATION
by ASJAD NAZIR
WHEN Sanjay Seran entered the Vancouver desi music as a teenager in the late 1990s, he probably didn’t imagine the amazing path and achievements that lay ahead.
The most notable of these would be forming the acclaimed band Delhi 2 Dublin, creating mesmerising music with them and touring globally, including performing at major festivals like Glastonbury and Burning Man.
Such was the band’s popularity that he was averaging over 150 shows a year at one point and creating songs that were influencing other artists. Today, he balances creating music and performing live, with hosting a global radio show.
Eastern Eye caught up with Sanjay to talk about his marvellous music journey, brilliant band, radio show and very unique inspiration.
What connected you to music?
I’ve been hooked since day one or at least very early in my life, through my dad’s record collection, including Bollywood classics to ABBA, and Diana Ross to contemporary pop that would be on the radio in the car growing up. This love affair with music is all I’ve known. Are there people out there that don’t have a connection to music, what?
How did Delhi 2 Dublin get formed and what inspired it?
It was supposed to be a one-off collaboration performance between some of us local Vancouver musicians for week-long music festival, Celtic Fest. We all brought in our own influences and sounds for the performance. Some of us came up through the Asian underground scene and combined it with the Irish fiddlers and dancers for the collaboration. The original performance was slotted for the Thursday club night called Delhi to Dublin. The collaboration went so well that we just started getting booked more and more, until we became a band. We ended up keeping the name of the night, thus Delhi 2 Dublin was born.
How do you look back on the Delhi 2 Dublin journey?
Like a proud dad! We have done some incredible things, played at some incredible places, broken down barriers and brought many walks of life together. All this, while being able to see and experience so many pockets of the globe.
Which of the group’s achievement are you most proud of?
I think that being able to last 14 years is a huge achievement. It is after all a marriage of sorts and a lot of those don’t make it this long, and that’s only involving two people.
Which of the group’s music isclosest to your heart?
The early stuff like Dil Nachde and Apples have a special place in my heart because those songs allowed me to get really creative and break away from what the traditional Punjabi vocalist trajectory looked like at the time.
What about your albums?
I had the most fun creating the We’re All Desi album, especially the writing process with our guitarist James Hussain. Our last album We Got This is by far the closet to my heart because it allowed me to see what it looked and sounded like to create a pop album with a big well-known producer. And from that album, My People is the magic song. Hearing that played on mainstream commercial radio was a childhood dream come true. It was also the song that led to us being signed to a major label, which is not always what it’s cracked out to be, but was a dream I’d been holding on to as a kid – and we did it!
What has kept the group together for so long?
Who knows, the flow of energy I guess. I think that sort of thing is out of my hands, but will say that we were willing to put in the work and our live show is kickass, no joke, but again, I’m not taking the credit for that either – I’m just the vehicle for that energy.
How much does live performance mean to you and what has been the most memorable?
The live show, especially for a band like D2D, is everything. That energy has never been able to be captured on recording – the true essence is in the live show. We’ve played well over a 1,000 so it’s hard to narrow down the most memorable because they all have their own special moments, but let’s say playing six shows in 52 hours at Burning Man was very memorable. Being invited to play in front of 150,000 people for our Canada celebrations was pretty rad too. And I’ll never forget being in Iowa City and playing for exactly one person in some club, so ya, we’ve done that too.
What is your own master plan?
Currently, my focus is on my solo project, SNJÜ, which is kind of r’n’b, soul, chill and sexy vibes. I am just addicted to creating and writing for this project. I do not know if I have a master plan, but rather than that I am just trying to have as much fun as I possibly can, and thus far, the results have been just pure joy.
Tell us about your radio show?
I basically play whatever I think is dope; it’s a mix of urban desi to electronic vibes to harder Punjabi stuff. I keep it music heavy and less talk, and try to showcase Canadian talent, and at the moment, there is an abundance of it.
What music dominates your own playlist?
Right now, I’m obsessed with Saint JHN. I can’t get enough of what he is putting out. I feel he is connecting with me on a molecular level. It’s so fun to be obsessed with music like a suburban teenager locked in a room pissed off with my parents or something. Otherwise, I’m feeling A.Chal. Khanvict, SkinnyLocal, Gashi, Jasmine Sandlas, Sidhu Moosewala and Happy Singh. There is so much good music out there. It’s exciting.
Who is your hero?
I don’t have one; I don’t think there is only one person I have put into that category. I really draw and learn from multiple artists. I feel if I had one idol or hero it would keep me in the past and subscribing to an old model from a time that no longer exists, and thus isn’t really valid. I listen to new and relevant music, and feel that I vary as the paradigm continues to shift.
What inspires you?
Sexual energy is amazing. It’s so powerful it can move mountains and destroy families. It will motivate people to do almost anything. I think that is what SNJÜ is all about, capturing that vibe, that little slice of energy in song form. I also think that’s why the word jawani is so important because it means more than just youth, but the connotation of youthful sexual energy. It works in reverse too; the energy makes one feel youthful. (Laughs) Keep the drive alive!
If you could ask any artist, alive or dead, a question, what would you ask them?
I would like to ask John Lennon if he would join me on an LSD experience, because that would be so rad and why not? I think it would be a session full of love.
What is the best advice you got?
Don’t tell someone you love them, just to get them into bed. I never have and I’m sure that has saved my ass a lot of drama. Don’t need that at all.
Why do you love music so much?
I don’t know any other way. It’s just who I am and all I’ve ever known. I guess a song can take you places, some can instil the feelings of nostalgia while others are a form of escapism. It’s like three minutes of pure power to transform you to any space or time. It’s magical.
Madhya Pradesh High Court rejects Saif Ali Khan’s plea in the long-running Bhopal royal property dispute.
The estate, worth £1.4 billion (₹15,000 crore), has been declared “enemy property” due to links with Pakistan.
Trial court verdict naming Saif and family as heirs overturned; retrial ordered.
Government may soon initiate takeover of key Pataudi family properties in Bhopal.
The Madhya Pradesh High Court has dealt a severe legal setback to actor Saif Ali Khan and his family by striking down a previous court ruling that recognised them as legal heirs to a sprawling £1.4 billion (₹15,000 crore) royal estate in Bhopal. The court declared the property as “enemy property,” a classification that allows the government to take control of assets once owned by individuals who migrated to Pakistan.
Saif Ali Khan’s royal inheritance in Bhopal declared enemy property after court verdictGetty Images
High court overturns 2000 verdict favouring Saif’s family
In its latest order, the High Court dismissed a trial court ruling from 2000 that had recognised Saif Ali Khan, his mother Sharmila Tagore, and his sisters Soha and Saba as rightful inheritors of the estate of Sajida Sultan, daughter of Nawab Hamidullah Khan. The challenge came from other descendants of the Nawab, who argued that the property distribution should have followed Muslim Personal Law, not state-backed recognition. The court has now ordered a retrial, directing the lower court to conclude proceedings within one year.
Saif Ali Khan with family Getty Images
Declared ‘enemy property’ over Pakistan connection
The dispute took a sharp turn in 2014 when the Custodian of Enemy Property notified that several Pataudi properties in Bhopal, including the Noor-Us-Sabah Palace and Flag Staff House, would be classified under the Enemy Property Act. This decision stemmed from the fact that Saif’s great-grandmother, Abida Sultan, sister of Sajida Sultan, migrated to Pakistan post-Partition, renouncing her Indian citizenship. Under the Act, properties linked to such individuals can be acquired by the Indian government.
An exterior view of the Noor Us Sabah Palace now listed under enemy property Getty Images
Saif’s challenge fails as deadline passes
Saif Ali Khan had managed to secure a temporary stay on the government’s move in 2015. However, the court lifted the stay on 13 December 2024 and gave the family 30 days to appeal to the appellate tribunal. As no claim was filed within the stipulated time, the properties are now eligible for acquisition by the government. The Bhopal district administration may soon begin the takeover process.
Saif Ali Khan loses claim to Pataudi family properties as court cites Pakistan connectionGetty Images
Legacy of the Pataudi family under scrutiny
The estate at the heart of the dispute includes some of Bhopal’s most valuable landmarks, not just in monetary terms but also in heritage. This legal turn of events has reignited debate around the Enemy Property Act and how it continues to affect Indian families with cross-border ties. For Saif Ali Khan, whose royal lineage has long been part of his public identity, this verdict could be a deeply personal and legal setback.
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Abhishek Bachchan says Aishwarya Rai is fully responsible for Aaradhya’s upbringing
Abhishek Bachchan credits Aishwarya Rai for taking the lead in daughter Aaradhya’s upbringing.
Says Aaradhya, now 13, has no phone and stays away from social media.
Calls Aishwarya “selfless” for prioritising parenting over everything else.
Slams online gossip surrounding their marriage as baseless and insensitive.
Actor Abhishek Bachchan has dismissed recent speculation around his marriage with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, instead shining a light on her unwavering dedication as a mother. In a recent chat, he spoke warmly about their 13-year-old daughter Aaradhya, revealing that she neither owns a mobile phone nor uses social media, something he attributes to Aishwarya’s hands-on parenting.
Aaradhya Bachchan has no access to social media or a personal phoneGetty Images
Aishwarya Rai's parenting praised as ‘selfless and devoted’
Speaking in an interview, Abhishek was full of admiration for how Aishwarya has raised their daughter. "I have to give credit entirely to Aishwarya. I go out and work, but she does all the heavy lifting when it comes to Aaradhya. She’s incredibly selfless,” he said. According to him, Aishwarya’s decision to put her daughter's well-being above everything else has shaped Aaradhya into a grounded young person.
Abhishek Bachchan calls Aishwarya a devoted mother and partnerGetty Images
Aaradhya has no phone, no social media — by choice and design
In an era when most teenagers are glued to their screens, Aaradhya stands out. “She doesn’t have a phone. She’s not on any social media. She’s being raised to be thoughtful and aware,” Abhishek said. He also acknowledged that while Aishwarya plays the larger parenting role, Aaradhya herself deserves credit for the person she’s becoming, calling her a “wonderful little lady” who brings joy and pride to the family.
Aaradhya is now taller than Aishwarya says Abhishek in candid interviewGetty Images
Responds to rumours, says online chatter can be hurtful
For months, the internet has been buzzing with speculation about a rift between Abhishek and Aishwarya. Without naming any specific rumours, Abhishek expressed frustration with how quickly false stories gain traction. “People sit behind their screens and type things without realising they’re talking about real lives. It’s very easy to be nasty online,” he shared during a media interaction.
Aishwarya Rai often seen with daughter Aaradhya at public eventsGetty Images
‘She’s taller than Aishwarya now’: a proud dad reflects
Recalling the night Aaradhya was born, Abhishek fondly mentioned how she once fit in the crook of his arm. “She’s taller than Aishwarya now,” he said with a smile, adding that the happiness of coming home to a healthy family is what matters most to him today.
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Ranveer Singh in a still from Lootera that captured his most restrained performance
Ranveer’s subtle performance in Lootera marked a major shift from his usual high-energy roles.
The 1950s-set romantic drama became a career milestone for the actor.
His restrained, emotionally complex portrayal earned long-term critical acclaim.
The film showcased a successful collaboration with director Vikramaditya Motwane.
As Dhurandhar builds buzz, Lootera reminds us of Ranveer’s range.
Twelve years ago, Ranveer Singh surprised audiences with Lootera, a period romance that asked him to do something unfamiliar: stay still. Set in 1950s Bengal and directed by Vikramaditya Motwane, the film gave Ranveer the space to deliver one of his most subdued and mature performances. No outbursts. No spectacle. Just quiet heartbreak.
Lootera released in 2013 and marked a stylistic shift for Ranveer Singh Prime Video
Here’s why his role as Varun still holds up more than a decade later:
1. A rare lesson in stillness
Known for loud roles and louder screen presence, Ranveer turned things down, way down in Lootera. His portrayal of a soft-spoken, guilt-ridden thief proved that less can sometimes be more. His silences did the heavy lifting, letting emotion simmer just beneath the surface.
Ranveer Singh’s role as Varun showed he could command the screen without saying much
2. He took a risk and it worked
At a time when most rising stars would double down on mass-appealing hits, Ranveer picked a slower, more poetic film. It was a gamble, especially for someone fresh off commercial successes. But Lootera earned him serious critical respect and broadened perceptions of what he could do as an actor.
The period romance Lootera became a turning point in Ranveer Singh’s career
3. An emotionally layered performance
Varun isn’t a typical romantic lead. He’s torn, flawed, and emotionally guarded. Ranveer managed to convey all that complexity with minimal dialogue, relying instead on body language and micro-expressions that hinted at heartbreak and inner conflict.
Ranveer Singh’s performance in Lootera was praised for its emotional restraint
4. A director who brought out his quieter side
Vikramaditya Motwane’s direction played a big role in shaping the performance. There’s a quiet rhythm to the film, and Ranveer adapted beautifully to it. The collaboration allowed him to step into a world that demanded introspection over intensity, and he delivered.
Ranveer Singh and Sonakshi Sinha starred in the romantic drama set in 1950s BengalYoutube/Altt Balaji Motion Pictures
5. A role that aged well
Not all performances hold up years later, but Lootera does. While it wasn’t a box office juggernaut, the film has since found cult love. Ranveer’s turn as Varun remains one of his most respected, proof that charisma doesn’t always need volume.
Lootera’s legacy has grown over the years despite its modest box office runYoutube/Altt Balaji Motion Pictures
What’s next?
Twelve years on, Lootera continues to be a defining moment in Ranveer Singh’s career. And with his next film, Dhurandhar, already drawing attention for a darker transformation, it’s clear the actor is still full of surprises.
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AR Rahman and Hans Zimmer smile together in viral selfie
AR Rahman and Hans Zimmer will collaborate on the soundtrack for Ramayana: Part One, directed by Nitesh Tiwari.
Rahman shared a selfie with Zimmer on Instagram, captioned “With @hanszimmer #ramayanamovie”.
The photo sparked a wave of excitement online, with fans and celebrities calling it a “historic moment”.
Ramayana: Part One stars Ranbir Kapoor, Yash, and Sai Pallavi, and is set for a Diwali 2026 release.
AR Rahman’s latest Instagram post has set the tone for what might be one of the most ambitious film music projects in recent Indian cinema. The Oscar-winning composer shared a selfie with legendary Hollywood music producer Hans Zimmer, confirming their collaboration on Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana: Part One. The picture quickly went viral, as fans celebrated the rare coming together of two globally acclaimed composers for a single Indian film.
AR Rahman confirms collaboration with Hans Zimmer on InstagramInstagram/arrahman
Music fans celebrate Rahman–Zimmer team-up
The image, shared on 4 July, featured Rahman smiling beside Zimmer, with the simple caption: “With @hanszimmer #ramayanamovie.” But the response was anything but simple. Social media platforms lit up with comments from fans, celebrities, and fellow musicians. Singer Armaan Malik commented “Legends”, while actor Lauren Gottlieb called it “iconic”. One fan summed up the mood online, calling it “the frame of the decade.” Others hailed it as a historic cultural crossover. “ARR x HZ. The frame everyone will remember,” read one comment, while another declared, “Two titans cooking up something colossal.”
Helmed by Dangal director Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana: Part One is shaping up to be a high-budget adaptation of the Indian epic. The first look, released on 3 July, featured Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram and KGF star Yash as Ravana, earning praise for its grandeur and top-notch VFX by Oscar-winning studio DNEG. The film also stars Sai Pallavi as Sita, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Ravie Dubey as Lakshman. The sneak peek hinted at an intense visual and narrative experience, portraying the Ram-Ravana war as a battle of cosmic proportions.
Ramayana: Part One is produced by Prime Focus Studios’ Namit Malhotra and co-produced by Yash. The film is scheduled for a global release in Diwali 2026, with Part Two expected to follow in Diwali 2027. With the Zimmer–Rahman musical partnership added to the mix, expectations are now sky-high. As one user wrote: “Close your eyes and you're in another world. This soundtrack is going to be unreal.”
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Birmingham celebrates its heavy metal roots with Back to the Beginning show
Ozzy Osbourne to perform one final time in Birmingham on 5 July, reuniting with Black Sabbath’s original line-up.
Villa Park will host a 10-hour metal concert titled Back to the Beginning, curated by Tom Morello.
The line-up includes Metallica, Slayer, Pantera, and others; proceeds go to three Birmingham-based charities.
The reunion marks the first time Ozzy, Iommi, Butler, and Ward will play together in 20 years.
After a lifetime of chaotic stage antics, searing vocals, and defining an entire music genre, Ozzy Osbourne is officially calling time on his career. On Saturday, the 76-year-old rock legend will headline his final concert in Birmingham, his birthplace, alongside the original members of Black Sabbath, the band that started it all.
Billed as Back to the Beginning, the sold-out event will not only mark Osbourne’s last performance but also a rare reunion with Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward. Their last appearance as a full group was two decades ago.
Ozzy Osbourne to perform one final time in BirminghamGetty Images
Final Black Sabbath reunion draws massive crowd to Villa Park
Villa Park, home to Aston Villa Football Club, will be transformed into heavy metal ground zero on 5 July. The 42,000-seat venue is just minutes from the terraced home in Aston where Osbourne’s journey began. It’s a poetic return for the man dubbed the "Prince of Darkness."
Demand for the show was overwhelming. Tickets vanished in 16 minutes, hotel prices in the city have surged and Black Sabbath murals now blanket Birmingham’s streets.
'Greatest day in metal history' brings top acts to honour Black Sabbath
Curated by Rage Against the Machine’s Tom Morello, the lineup includes Metallica, Pantera, Gojira, Halestorm, Slayer, and members of Guns N' Roses and Tool. All are performing in tribute to Black Sabbath, the band that turned bluesy rock into a darker, thunderous force back in the late 1960s.
The concert is expected to last over 10 hours. Osbourne will perform a solo set before reuniting with Black Sabbath for hits like Paranoid, War Pigs, and Black Sabbath.
Ozzy Osbourne reflects on legacy, health, and retirement
Though known for his wild, unpredictable persona, from biting a bat onstage to being the first reality TV rock dad, Ozzy’s recent years have been marked by health issues. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2020 and recovering from spinal surgeries, Osbourne says he’s finally ready to slow down.
“I’ve announced retirements before,” he admitted in an interview. “But this time, I know it’s right. I want to be with my family and enjoy what time I’ve got left.”
Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath reunite in Birmingham for farewell concert after two decades Getty Images
Profits from the concert will go to Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorns Hospice, causes close to Osbourne’s heart.