Born into a musical household, it was perhaps inevitable that Hurricane Hemlatha Dindial would pursue a career in singing.
The daughter of late music legend Basdeo Lappo Dindial and sister of acclaimed singer Rasika Dindial, she has carved out her own place as a versatile chutney soca artist – known for catchy songs and a commanding stage presence. Her electrifying live sets include a standout performance at this year’s Chutney Soca Monarch competition.
Eastern Eye caught up with the Trinidad & Tobago-based powerhouse to discuss her musical journey, strong Indian roots, on-stage energy, vibrant costumes and hopes.
What first connected you to music? I was born into a house filled with music and incredible artistes. The greatest of these was my late father, Basdeo Lappo Dindial – a highly admired, revered and respected singer. He taught me everything I know and made me who I am today.
How do you reflect on your musical journey so far? It has been a wonderful journey that began in childhood, surrounded by great music. It later became my professional path. I am grateful for everything this journey has brought into my life.
Which of your songs is closest to your heart? All my songs mean a great deal to me because I always sing from the heart. I could not choose just one – they are all special.
How much does live performance mean to you – and what has been your most memorable? Live performances mean a lot because the fans always make me feel appreciated. Their love and energy push me to give my best every time. Every show I have delivered around the world is memorable in its own way – they have each helped shape me as an artiste.
How do you generate so much power in your voice on stage? My voice is something I was simply born with. I would say it is normal for me – I have just been blessed with that natural power.
Tell us about your fabulous stage costumes. My costumes are a big part of my shows and always come from my imagination. I design them based on the occasion – but they must always be memorable. I follow my instincts when choosing what to wear.
How connected are you to your Indian cultural roots? Very connected. I was born into Indian culture, and that foundation has always stayed strong in me. I am Hindu, and my father performed a lot of religious music, so that cultural connection was always present in our family.
You have achieved a great deal, but do you have any unfulfilled ambitions? Yes – I have many dreams I still hope to fulfil, although I prefer not to reveal them yet. But I am truly grateful for everything I have achieved so far.
What type of music dominates your personal playlist? I love all types of music. Like most people, it depends on my mood.
What truly inspires you creatively? Creativity comes naturally to me. I just follow my heart and mind – it is within me.
Why do you love music? Music entertains, relaxes and heals. It gives us so much without asking for anything in return. That is why I love it.
Hugh Grant was spotted napping during the Djokovic vs Cobolli quarter-final at Wimbledon 2025.
The actor sat in the Royal Box just behind Queen Camilla and her sister.
Social media erupted with memes, jokes, and criticism, calling it the “£700 (₹74,200) nap.”
Novak Djokovic made history in the match, advancing to his record-breaking 14th Wimbledon semi-final.
British actor Hugh Grant unexpectedly stole attention from Wimbledon 2025’s quarter-finals, not for a performance, but for taking a mid-match nap. The 64-year-old was captured on camera dozing off in the Royal Box on Wednesday, 9 July, during Novak Djokovic’s high-stakes match against Flavio Cobolli.
Wearing dark sunglasses and seated next to his wife, Anna Elisabet Eberstein, Grant leaned into a deep slouch with his hands in his lap. What made the moment even more of a social media spectacle was his location, just behind Queen Camilla and her sister, Annabel Elliot.
Hugh Grant and wife Anna Eberstein seated in the Royal Box at Centre CourtGetty Images
Fans call it the ‘£700 nap’ as Hugh Grant goes viral
While Wimbledon is known for its A-list guest list, few moments have gone as viral as Grant’s sleepy slump. Social media platforms lit up with reactions, some amused, others annoyed.
“Not convinced Hugh Grant is awake,” quipped one user on X, alongside a screenshot from the live broadcast. Another joked, “It’s the most expensive nap in human history.” Yet another user chimed in, “There are fans who queue since 3 am to get into Wimbledon, and Hugh Grant slept through a tiebreak!”
One of the more popular memes labelled it the “£700 (₹74,200) nap,” referencing the estimated cost of premium Wimbledon access. The BBC Sport account cheekily joined in, tweeting: “It’s all got a bit too much for Hugh Grant.”
— (@)
Hugh Grant chats with Queen Camilla moments before dozing off
Before nodding off, Grant had been seen animatedly chatting with Queen Camilla and her sister. The trio shared smiles in the Royal Box, basking in the summer sun. The sudden shift from conversation to shut-eye added fuel to online jokes, with some playfully nicknaming the moment “Nodding Hill.”
— (@)
Despite the sleepy slip-up, other attendees, including Cate Blanchett, Joe Alwyn, and Glen Powell, managed to stay fully alert during the tense match.
Djokovic defeats Cobolli to set new Wimbledon semi-final record
The match Grant slept through was far from dull. Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic bounced back after losing the first set to beat Italy’s Flavio Cobolli in four sets: 6-7 (8), 6-2, 7-5, 6-4. With this victory, Djokovic reached his 14th Wimbledon semi-final, surpassing Roger Federer’s record.
“Obviously, my body is not the same today like it was before,” Djokovic said after the match. “The real impact or effect of what happened, I will feel tomorrow.”
The 38-year-old tennis legend now faces Jannik Sinner in the semi-finals, a rematch that tennis fans have been eagerly anticipating. Sinner has defeated Djokovic in their last four meetings, including the 2025 Roland Garros semi-final and the 2024 Australian Open.
— (@)
Reactions mixed: Some say it’s relatable, others find it disrespectful
Not everyone found Hugh Grant’s nap disrespectful. Some social media users found the moment charming, saying, “Finally, someone real,” and “When you’re old and rich, you can sleep wherever you want.” Others joked, “We usually sleep during his movies too.”
— (@)
Still, there was underlying criticism. “Why even bother showing up if you’re just going to sleep through it?” one fan asked. Wimbledon’s Royal Box access is limited and highly coveted, granted via invitation from the All England Club’s chair and affiliated bodies.
— (@)
Though brief, Grant’s nap became one of the day’s biggest talking points, overshadowing even a record-breaking Grand Slam performance.
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.
Kajol says star kids face harsher pressure as Ibrahim Ali Khan gears up for Sarzameen
Kajol says today’s star kids face intense pressure to succeed immediately.
She compares their experience to her own, where she had time and space to evolve.
The actor is starring as Ibrahim Ali Khan’s mother in the upcoming film Sarzameen.
Kajol stresses the importance of reinvention and praises new actors for adapting beyond films.
Kajol believes the new generation of star kids in Bollywood are under far more pressure than actors from her era. The actress, who will soon be seen in Sarzameen alongside debutant Ibrahim Ali Khan, said young actors today are expected to prove themselves instantly, and harsh judgement follows if they don’t.
Kajol discusses star kids and the changing rules of BollywoodGetty Images
Star kids today face harsher scrutiny online
According to Kajol, it’s no longer enough to simply enter the industry with a known surname. The expectations are sky-high, and the backlash is immediate. “Whether or not your parents are famous, trolls will criticise you. But people tend to pay more attention when a star kid is involved,” she said in an interview.
She acknowledged that while she had the privilege of time and multiple films to grow into her career, younger actors now operate in what she calls a “do-or-die” environment. “They’re well prepared for it, I’ll give them that. But we could be a little kinder,” she added.
Kajol will play the mother of Ibrahim Ali Khan, son of Saif Ali Khan and Amrita Singh, in the patriotic drama Sarzameen, which will release on JioCinema on 25 July. Ibrahim’s first appearance in Naadaniyan was widely panned, sparking brutal comments online. Kajol’s remarks come at a time when the debate around nepotism and online trolling of celebrity kids is louder than ever.
The Maa actor also spoke about the importance of reinvention in a fast-changing industry. “You have to unlearn what you’ve learned before. Try new things. Keep moving,” she said, emphasising that staying relevant today means doing more than just films.
She pointed out that unlike earlier times, actors now pursue diverse paths to build their brand, from digital content and entrepreneurship to fashion and endorsements. “My kind of longevity might not apply to this generation. But they’re finding their own ways to last,” she said.
Kajol opens up about the pressure today’s actors face in the industryGetty Images
The bigger picture: Criticism, reinvention, and resilience
Kajol’s comments reflect a growing awareness among senior actors about the evolving pressures in Bollywood. With online trolling, increased media scrutiny, and instant judgment shaping careers, young actors, especially those from film families, are constantly navigating a high-stakes space.
Still, Kajol remains optimistic. “They’ll keep doing different films and other things. It won’t just be about the movies anymore,” she said, noting how the meaning of longevity in Bollywood is being redefined.
Keep ReadingShow less
Cardi B continues her bold fashion streak with floral runway glamour
Cardi B wore a ruby-red custom Rahul Mishra gown with sculptural 3D flowers at Paris Couture Week.
The outfit followed her earlier dramatic appearance at Schiaparelli in a fringe dress with a live crow.
She’s currently working on her debut album Am I the Drama? and a beauty venture with Revolve.
The look featured diamond accessories, a sculpted bun, and smoky makeup to match the theatrical dress.
Cardi B took her fashion game to new heights in Paris, stepping out in a dramatic Rahul Mishra creation that fused red carpet glamour with runway sculpture. The rapper’s custom-made gown, featuring 3D blooming flowers and a shimmering ruby base, was a highlight at Paris Haute Couture Week, making it one of her most talked-about looks this season.
Cardi B's red gown features 3D sculpted flowers and intricate embroideryInstagram/rahulmishra_7
The Rahul Mishra dress with blooming details
Cardi’s gown, from Rahul Mishra’s autumn 2025 collection, brought together intricate hand-embroidery with sculptural design. The dress, in a deep red shade covered in tiny rhinestones, caught the light with every movement. Beaded detailing mimicked vines climbing up her silhouette, and from behind, eight large flowers unfolded in a wire structure, making her look like a walking floral sculpture.
This bold look came just hours after her appearance at Schiaparelli, where she wore a structured black dress complete with a live crow perched on her arm. But it was Mishra’s floral fantasy that stole attention, and not just for its complexity, but for how effortlessly Cardi carried it.
Rahul Mishra’s couture creation turns heads on the Paris streetsInstagram/rahulmishra_7
A beauty look to match the drama
To complement the outfit, Cardi B kept her beauty choices both elegant and powerful. Her hair was pulled back into a low bun with styled baby hairs, a signature she’s owned over the years. She wore a diamond choker, drop earrings, and a bracelet that added more sparkle without competing with the dress. Her makeup leaned into drama too: smoky eyes, winged liner, and sharp black nails.
Known for pushing boundaries on red carpets, Cardi often prioritises fashion over beauty. “Great outfit. Every time,” she once said, emphasising how first impressions are made by what you wear.
Cardi B steps out in a custom Rahul Mishra dress at Paris Couture WeekInstagram/rahulmishra_7
Album on the way, beauty line next
Beyond couture, Cardi B is focused on finishing her long-anticipated debut album Am I the Drama?, while also preparing to enter the beauty industry with Revolve. Speaking to WWD, she hinted that both ventures are deeply personal, aimed at building a brand that reflects both her roots and spirit.
Whether she’s teasing a new single or stepping out in sculptural fashion, Cardi B continues to command attention, not by playing it safe, but by transforming every appearance into a performance of its own.
Keep ReadingShow less
Rajkummar Rao and Patralekhaa expecting first child, share news with sweet Instagram post
Rajkummar Rao and Patralekhaa announced their pregnancy via a joint Instagram post on Wednesday.
The image showed a floral cradle with “Baby on the way” written on it, captioned simply: “Elated ❤️.”
Industry friends including Farah Khan, Sonam Kapoor, Bhumi Pednekar, and Esha Gupta congratulated them.
The couple, who were together for 11 years before marrying in 2021, recently launched their production house, KAMPA Film.
Rajkummar Rao and Patralekhaa shared that they are expecting their first child together in a joint Instagram post on Wednesday. The announcement came with a floral-themed image featuring a cradle illustration that read, “Baby on the way,” along with their names. The couple summed up their feelings in one word: “Elated.”
Rajkummar Rao and Patralekhaa smiling during a public appearance earlier this year Instagram/patralekhaa/rajkummar_rao
Couple’s first baby on the way
Rajkummar and Patralekhaa’s quiet reveal drew instant love from fans and colleagues alike. Filmmaker Farah Khan, who knew beforehand, joked in the comments, “Finally the news is out!! I was having a tough time keeping it to myself.” Others like Sonam Kapoor, Bhumi Pednekar, Neha Dhupia, and Esha Gupta also sent in their warm wishes.
The duo dated for over 11 years before tying the knot in November 2021. Their relationship began well before they co-starred in CityLights, a 2014 film directed by Hansal Mehta. They've since appeared together in Bose: Dead/Alive and remained one of the industry’s most low-key but admired couples.
Rajkummar Rao will next be seen in Maalik, set for release on 11 July. He plays a gangster in the crime drama, which also stars Manushi Chhillar and Prosenjit Chatterjee. Patralekhaa, last seen in Phule, continues to balance film and OTT roles.
The couple recently launched KAMPA Film, a production banner named using the initials of their mothers’ names. “We’ve always believed in the power of storytelling,” Patralekhaa shared. Rajkummar added, “KAMPA is an extension of our love for cinema and each other.”
Keep ReadingShow less
Dhurandhar teaser reveals glimpses of Sara and Ranveer’s on-screen pairing
Sara Arjun, once India’s highest-paid child actor, stars opposite Ranveer Singh in Dhurandhar.
Started her career at 18 months old and rose to fame with Deiva Thirumagal.
The teaser dropped on 6 July, coinciding with Ranveer’s 40th birthday.
The film has sparked online criticism over the 20-year age gap between the leads.
Once a toddler in detergent ads and later the daughter of Vikram in Deiva Thirumagal, Sara Arjun is now stepping into the spotlight as the female lead in Dhurandhar, Aditya Dhar’s espionage drama starring Ranveer Singh. The teaser, released on Singh’s 40th birthday, has made waves not just for its slick visuals but also for the casting of Sara opposite the veteran star.
Former child star Sara Arjun cast as Ranveer Singh’s romantic lead in 'Dhurandhar' at age 20 Facebook/Sara Arjun
A childhood spent on sets and screens
Sara Arjun’s introduction to the camera came before she could even speak fluently. Born in Mumbai in 2005 to actor Raj Arjun (Thalaivii, Secret Superstar) and dance teacher Sanya Arjun, she was just 18 months old when she appeared in her first television commercial. By the time she turned five, she had starred in over 100 ads, making her a familiar face in Indian households.
Her big break came in 2011 with Deiva Thirumagal, in which she played a six-year-old caught in a custody battle, alongside Tamil star Vikram. The film earned her both critical praise and public adoration. She went on to appear in Ek Thi Daayan, Saivam, and more recently as the younger version of Aishwarya Rai’s character in Ponniyin Selvan.
Sara Arjun began her screen career before she turned twoInstagram/saraarjun.fan.club
India's richest child star now fronting a major Bollywood film
Sara’s filmography spans Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Hindi cinema. By 2023, she was estimated to have earned £950,000 (₹10 crore approximately ), making her one of the highest-paid child actors in Indian film history. Despite her young age, Sara has built an impressive résumé, including roles in 404, Jazbaa, Saand Ki Aankh, and Magic.
Now, Dhurandhar marks a turning point, her first major adult role in a mainstream Bollywood production. While her exact role in the story remains under wraps, she appears throughout the teaser in glimpses: dancing at a nightclub, riding pillion with Ranveer’s character, and sharing an intimate moment with him on the dance floor.
Though Sara’s rise to leading-lady status is being celebrated by many, her pairing with Ranveer Singh has drawn criticism for its age gap. Singh, who made his debut in 2010’s Band Baaja Baaraat, was already a Bollywood name while Sara was still a schoolchild. The 20-year difference between the two actors has reignited Bollywood’s long-standing debate around male leads being cast opposite significantly younger women.
Online users have questioned why Bollywood continues to cast barely-adult actresses opposite middle-aged male stars. “This isn’t casting, it’s conditioning,” one post read. Another pointed out that Dhurandhar began filming two years ago, when Sara had just turned 18.
Written and directed by Aditya Dhar (Uri: The Surgical Strike), Dhurandhar is positioned as a gritty espionage thriller based on real-life incidents. Backed by Jio Studios and B62 Studios, the film also features R Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal, and Akshaye Khanna. It’s scheduled for a theatrical release on 5 December 2025.
While the teaser focuses heavily on Singh’s brooding, action-heavy persona, it’s Sara who has become the unexpected centre of attention. Whether the film will address their dynamic meaningfully or skirt the conversation remains to be seen.
For now, Dhurandhar marks a milestone in Sara Arjun’s long, unusual journey, from baby shampoo commercials to a Ranveer Singh-led action saga. Whether this debut will cement her status as Bollywood’s next big star or become a cautionary tale in its age-old casting debate, time and box office numbers will tell.