RISING STAR RADHIKA MADAN ON ANGREZI MEDIUM AND MAKING THE RIGHT MOVES
by ASJAD NAZIR
TALENTED actress Radhika Madan has
effortlessly made the move from television to films and in a short space of time delivered power-packed performances in dramatically different films.
She now follows up winning turns in acclaimed movies Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota and Pataakha with a starring role in Angrezi Medium opposite globally renowned actor Irrfan Khan. The heart-warming drama revolves around an Indian father who will do whatever it takes to raise money for his daughter to study in England and marks the return of Irrfan after his devastating cancer diagnosis.
Radhika plays the daughter in the entertaining comedy-drama, which also stars Kareena Kapoor Khan, Dimple Kapadia and Deepak Dobriyal.
With more interesting projects on the way, the rising star is one to watch and part of an exciting wave of young talent adding a new dimension to Hindi cinema. Eastern Eye caught up with award-winning star Radhika to talk about acting, Angrezi Medium, working with Irrfan and her hopes.
What first connected you to acting?
I think acting chose me. I was spotted on Facebook and called to Mumbai, where I auditioned, and within three days, I was shooting for my (TV) show. I always wanted to travel the world, but I think the universe had other plans and I believe acting chose me.
Is it a coincidence that your films have been so different to each other?
I think the first two films chose me, especially Mard Ko Dard Nahin Hota. I went to audition for Laila Majnu and was spotted there for that film. I auditioned for Vishal sir’s (Bhardwaj) Pataakha. These two films laid my foundations well. From being the unconventional heroine to playing this villager, four shades darker, 12 kilos heavier, teeth stained, hair bleached, it just broke all my inhibitions and made me kind of fearless. So after that, I wanted to do something different to what I had done before and wanted to challenge myself.
What led you towards Angrezi Medium?
I auditioned for Angrezi Medium, which was so different to what I had done before, and my next film Shiddat is also unlike my other three films. So what I aim to do is offer my audience different flavours of me. I want to entertain them as much as possible. I don’t want them to guess what I am doing next or put me in a bracket. So this is what I am looking for, and I just want to surprise myself everyday.
How much did it mean to you landing a key role in Angrezi Medium?
It feels like a dream. When I saw the trailer and in the last 10 seconds credits started rolling – Irrfan Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Radhika Madan, Dimple Kapadia, Deepak Dobriyal – I couldn’t stop my tears because I realised I am living my dream. Then the song released and I was seeing snippets of all these people, and I couldn’t believe I am in the same frame as them. Everyday, I am soaked in gratitude and so overwhelmed that I can’t tell you.
Tell us about your character?
So Tarika is this girl from Udaipur who is fascinated by foreign culture and just wants to go abroad to study. That has been her main ambition from the very beginning, and how she does it and how the father supports the daughter’s dream is the story.
How was your experience of working with Irrfan?
He is an institution in himself. Just by observing him, one can learn a lot of things. He is still a student of life, which is so beautiful. I used to observe him all the time. I don’t know which number he is on film wise, but it is like he approaches each film as if it’s his first, which is inspiring. This is the first film release since Irrfan’s cancer diagnosis.
Did the fact he was so unwell affect the dynamic on set?
No, not at all, because he didn’t show us that he was unwell. He was giving his 200 per cent. He was so involved in every scene. There was so much of positivity on set and the credit goes to the whole team, including the producers, director, cast and crew. The love and respect they have shown to Irrfan sir, is commendable. It was so beautiful being on the set where there was so much love and positivity.
Does being in front of the camera with a great actor like Irrfan intimidate or force you to raise your game?
It was the easiest thing for me to do because I just had to react to him. He is so good that I can’t even tell you. He was so effortless. So, I had the easiest job of reacting to him. The good or a bad thing with me is, it doesn’t hit me straight away when I have cracked or bagged something; it hits me after a while. So while I was shooting, it didn’t hit me that I have landed a role among such amazing senior actors, which helped me not get intimidated by them. Then after a while, I saw the trailer and was crying.
What is your favourite moment in Angrezi Medium?
My favourite moment is the climax and the scene in the trailer where I am crying. It is a really beautiful scene between a father and a daughter. These two scenes are my favourite from the film.
Who are you hoping most connects with this film?
Everybody. It’s a story that will connect with everyone because it shows all the dynamics. It doesn’t just show a father-daughter relationship, but also shows a brother relationship or a person who just wants to dream big. It covers everything, so you will feel all the emotions. It will make you think of every relationship that is there in your life. It will make you think about your family and career. It is a very wholesome film.
What can we expect next from you?
I just wound up Shiddat. I play the role of a swimmer in that and it is a love story. That is all I can tell you right now. I can promise you, it is really different from what I have done before.
You seem to me making the right moves, have you made a master plan?
No, not at all. I was this kind of person who had a master plan. I just wanted to go to Broadway and travel the world. And then life happened. They say that life happens to you while you are busy making other plans, and it is so true for me because acting happened to me and all my plans just went down the drain, so I never plan anything now. I just want to have a blast every single day of my life. I want to play characters that make me want to jump out of bed. I love my work and that is what I want to do till the last year of my life.
What would be your dream role?
I think if they adapt Joker here that would be my dream role. And why? It’s Joker, hello, come on!
What inspires you?
I think people around me inspire me like, everybody from my house help and driver to my manager, friends and work colleagues. I just want to learn something or the other from every person and that is what keeps me going.
Why should we watch Angrezi Medium?
Angrezi Medium is a wholesome film. It is gonna touch every emotion and make you think about every aspect of your life. And it is gonna be super duper entertaining. So, please do go and watch it with friends and family.
You think you're coming to Glastonbury for the music. That’s what you tell yourself. But then, by Day 4, it’s Saturday afternoon, the sun’s hammering down like it’s got a personal vendetta against pasty Brits, and the air’s thick with sunscreen, spilled cider, and pure anticipation.
Something big’s brewing. Something secret. Something that makes you feel like you're standing on the edge of history, or at least a really, really good party. There’s joy and rebellion here. Tears and beer. Political fire and surprise reunions.
Then somewhere between the late-night raves, the 2 AM ska-techno-klezmer, and the silent sobbing during Lewis Capaldi’s return, it hits you: Glastonbury isn’t just about who’s playing. It’s about who you become when you’re here.
Festival goers at Glastonbury festival 2025Getty Images
1. The Pyramid Stage Whisper: Is Jarvis REALLY Back?!
That prime-time slot at 6:15 PM listed as "Patchwork"? Nobody’sbuying it. Everyone thinks it’s a secret Pulp reunion. The rumour mill is wild,and SecretGlasto is dropping heavy hints.Ester from Norwich has been waiting at the front since earlymorning. She said, “If it’s not Pulp, I’m starting a riot. Or just crying intomy warm cider.”Could it really be Pulp, after 30 years? Backup guesses areHAIM or Chappell Roan, but the Pulp energy is strong. So, don’t miss it!
Pyramid Stage crowd swells ahead of the mystery Patchwork act rumoured to be Pulp Instagram/glastofest
2. Kneecap & the firestorm: Music, politics & “everyone is welcome”
Irish rap trio Kneecap hit the West Holts stage at 4 PM and stirred up big controversy. One of the members, Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, is out on bail for serious charges linked to Hezbollah.
PM Keir Starmer criticised their booking, and a leaked letter from music execs added pressure.
But Glastonbury stood firm. Emily Eavis said, “Everyone is welcome here.” Over 100 artists, including Massive Attack, Fontaines D.C., and even the rumoured Pulp, signed a counter-letter in support.
The BBC will still air the set live (though it might delay it on iPlayer). Expect pro-Palestine chants, strong emotions, and a packed crowd. Arrive early!
Kneecap welcome as political tension surrounds their setGetty Images
3. Survival mode: Glasto in the heat
It’s 26°C today, with 30°C expected tomorrow. The UK Health Security Agency has issued an amber heat alert. Stay safe:
• Drink water often. There are over 800 taps, so use them.
• Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen. Keep reapplying.
• Find shade, like on Dragon’s Tail hill or other quiet zones.
• Watch for signs of heat exhaustion: dizziness, nausea, fainting.
Saturday night is packed, and you’ll need to choose carefully:
• Neil Young & Chrome Hearts (Pyramid, 10 PM): Classic songs like “Heart of Gold” and “Old Man.” He’s unpredictable but a true Glastonbury icon.
• Charli XCX (Other Stage, 10:30 PM): Wild Brat energy, chaos, and late-night dancing. The Other Stage is bigger this year but getting there will be tough, so take a side route.
• Doechii (West Holts, 10:45 PM): Experimental and innovative. If you want something new and exciting, she’s the one to catch.
No easy choices here. Just decide what kind of night you want.
• Fat Dog (2 AM set): A wild mix of ska, techno, and klezmer. Already being called “show of the weekend.”
• Lorde : Did a surprise morning set at Woodsies, performing tracks from her upcoming album Virgin.
• The Binnies : 17,000 hand-painted bins around the site. Artist Sarah Lawrence painted one “for someone who never got to Glastonbury.” Powerful stuff, right?
• Lewis Capaldi : Came back to the Pyramid stage Friday. He pushed through and finished songs he’d struggled with before. Said, “I’m f---ing back, baby.” Huge moment.
• South East Corner (Afternoon): Busy with day raves. Expect big crowds.
•Kneecap (4 PM, West Holts): It’ll be packed. Have a backup plan: Bob Vylan is on at 2:30 PM.
• Kate Nash (9 PM, Left Field) and Scissor Sisters (10:30 PM, Woodsies): Very likely to be one-in, one-out entry. Get there early.
• Charli XCX : Main routes will be packed. Use alternate paths to avoid the jam.
Crowds of festival-goers fill the pathways during day three of Glastonbury festival 2025Getty Images
7. A look at what’s coming: Sunday & beyond
• Sunday Showdown: Olivia Rodrigo (Pyramid, 9:45 PM) vs. The Prodigy (Other Stage, 9:45 PM). Two different generations, one final choice.
• 2026 Fallow Year: No Glastonbury next year. The land and the cows are taking a break. Emily Eavis said they packed “two years into one” for 2025. So make this one count!
The heart of it all (a different kind of sign-off)
Glastonbury 2025 isn't just a festival. Right now, in the dusty, sun-baked field, it feels like the whole messy, beautiful, infuriating, glorious world squeezed into one place.
Jarvis Cocker might step into the light after decades. A band plays under a political storm cloud, testing what "welcome" really means. An old man sings about gold hearts while a pop futurist throws a Brat party across the way. Kids paint bins for loved ones gone.
We’re all sweating buckets, navigating human rivers, and maybe crying during Capaldi.
It’s contradictions crashing together. It’s the sheer, exhausting effort of being here, present, in the heat and the noise and the magic. It’s imperfect. It’s overwhelming. It’s political. It’s personal. It’s a hundred thousand stories colliding under a relentless sun.
That’s the Glastonbury paradox. It asks everything of you: your stamina, your choices, maybe even your convictions.
And in return? It gives you this: the pure, unfiltered, slightly chaotic pulse of right now. Hold onto it. Because in this field, today, everything feels possible.
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Tom Holland Jacob Elordi and Harris Dickinson top James Bond shortlist as Amazon eyes younger 007
Amazon’s reboot of the James Bond franchise is in early stages, with Dune director Denis Villeneuve attached.
Insiders claim Tom Holland, Jacob Elordi and Harris Dickinson are top contenders for the new 007.
The studio is reportedly seeking a British actor under 30; no official casting decisions made yet.
Next Bond film is unlikely to release before 2028 due to scheduling and production timelines.
The race for the next James Bond is heating up, and three familiar faces are at the top of the list.
As Amazon gears up to relaunch the James Bond franchise, Variety reports that actors Tom Holland, Jacob Elordi and Harris Dickinson are front-runners to play the iconic spy. The studio is reportedly focused on casting someone under 30, a significant shift from previous 007s, signalling a new direction for the long-running series.
Daniel Craig poses as James BondGetty Images
Denis Villeneuve to direct Bond reboot under Amazon MGM
With Dune and Arrival filmmaker Denis Villeneuve confirmed as director, the 26th James Bond film is set to begin a new chapter under the Amazon MGM banner. Villeneuve’s appointment is a major creative change, especially since producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson recently handed over creative control to Amazon following a £1 billion (₹10,400 crore) deal.
While no actor has signed on, Variety notes that the new Bond is unlikely to appear in cinemas before 2028. Villeneuve is still working on Dune: Messiah, which is expected in 2026, pushing the Bond production further down the line.
James Bond casting shortlist revealed with Tom Holland Jacob Elordi and Harris Dickinson in leadGetty Images
Tom Holland, Elordi and Dickinson emerge as possible 007s
Tom Holland, known for playing Spider-Man, had earlier pitched a “young Bond” origin story to Sony, though it never materialised. Harris Dickinson, praised for Triangle of Sadness and his Cannes-featured directorial debut Urchin, has expressed interest, calling it a role “you’d be a fool to not entertain.”
Meanwhile, Jacob Elordi, the only non-British contender, has seen a meteoric rise with Euphoria and Priscilla. Despite his Australian roots, producers are reportedly open to casting him, following precedent set by George Lazenby.
Is this the youngest James Bond yet as Tom Holland Harris Dickinson and Jacob Elordi lead casting rumoursGetty Images
All three actors have packed schedules, and no official talks have taken place. Still, the buzz suggests that Amazon is keen to reinvent 007 for a younger generation, with Villeneuve at the helm and a fresh face in the tux.
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Shefali Jariwala dies at 42 after cardiac arrest in Mumbai hospital
Actor and model Shefali Jariwala passed away late Friday night in Mumbai at the age of 42.
She was rushed to Bellevue Multispeciality Hospital after a cardiac arrest but was declared dead on arrival.
The Kaanta Laga star was married to actor Parag Tyagi, who was seen grieving outside the hospital.
Mumbai Police and forensic teams are investigating, with an official cause of death yet to be confirmed.
Actor and television personality Shefali Jariwala, who rose to fame with the early 2000s music video Kaanta Laga, has died following a sudden cardiac arrest. The 42-year-old was declared dead at Bellevue Hospital in Mumbai late on Friday night, 28 June. Her husband, actor Parag Tyagi, reportedly rushed her to the hospital around midnight with the help of close friends.
Despite immediate medical attention, doctors could not revive her. A hospital source confirmed she was “dead on arrival” at 11:27 pm. Her death has left friends, fans, and colleagues in shock, as many described her as healthy, cheerful, and actively working.
Shefali Jariwala dies at 42 after cardiac arrest, industry mourns Kaanta Laga starInstagram/shefalijariwala
Tributes pour in for Shefali Jariwala from friends and co-stars
Condolences have flooded social media since the news broke. Actors Dipshikkha Nagpal, Karishma Tanna, and Arjun Bijlani remembered Shefali as a “beautiful soul” and a “vibrant, kind person”. Television personalities including Aarti Singh, Munmun Dutta, and Kushal Tandon expressed disbelief, while fellow Bigg Boss contestants like Madhurima Tuli and Monalisa shared emotional messages.
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Comedian Sunil Pal and actor Ashish Vidyarthi also recalled fond memories of working with her. The Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA) issued a public tribute, acknowledging her impact on Indian entertainment. Her husband Parag Tyagi was seen outside the hospital and later at their residence, visibly heartbroken and carrying a framed photo of Shefali.
From IT graduate to household name: a brief look at her journey
Born in Mumbai in 1982, Shefali Jariwala held a degree in Information Technology before stepping into showbiz at 20. Her appearance in Kaanta Laga made her a pop culture phenomenon. She later appeared in films like Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, Kannada hit Hudugaru, and several music videos.
Shefali Jariwala was married to actor Parag Tyagi,Instagram/shefalijariwala
In 2019, she re-entered the limelight with Bigg Boss 13, earning praise for her calm yet assertive presence. Off-screen, she was candid about her health struggles, including epilepsy and anxiety, and had once spoken about her wish to adopt a daughter.
The police are awaiting autopsy results as investigations continue.
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Kamal Haasan Ayushmann Khurrana and Payal Kapadia invited to Oscars Academy in global list of 534 members
Kamal Haasan, Ayushmann Khurrana, and Payal Kapadia among Indian invitees to the Academy’s 2025 voting class
Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences extends membership to 534 new global members
Other Indian honourees include Maxima Basu, Ranabir Das, and Smriti Mundhra
Hollywood invitees include Ariana Grande, Conan O’Brien, Jason Momoa, and Jodie Comer
Veteran actor Kamal Haasan, critically acclaimed star Ayushmann Khurrana, and All We Imagine as Light director Payal Kapadia have been invited to join the Oscars Academy’s 2025 voting body. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has extended invitations to 534 new members from across the globe, recognising diverse contributions to cinema across disciplines.
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Indian artists gain spotlight in new Academy class
This year’s invite list is a significant moment for Indian cinema, with six industry professionals selected for their work across acting, direction, design, and technical fields. Kamal Haasan, known for groundbreaking films like Nayakan and Vikram, and Ayushmann Khurrana, celebrated for Article 15 and Andhadhun, were chosen in the acting category.
Ayushmann Khurrana attends an event at the FICCI Frames 2024 Getty Images
Payal Kapadia’s inclusion is especially noteworthy following her historic Cannes win for All We Imagine as Light, which made her the first Indian filmmaker to win the Grand Prix. Two of her key collaborators on the film were also invited: cinematographer Ranabir Das and costume designer Maxima Basu.
Kamal Haasan waves as he attends a press conference for 'Thug Life'Getty Images
Also joining the list are documentary filmmaker Smriti Mundhra, known for St. Louis Superman and Warden, and visual effects artist Abishek Nair, credited on Solo: A Star Wars Story and The Fate of the Furious.
Payal Kapadia smiles during the Jury photocall at the 78th annual Cannes Film FestivalGetty Images
Global mix includes Conan O’Brien and Ariana Grande
Alongside the Indian names, the Academy's 2025 class features a host of international stars and creators. Hollywood figures like Ariana Grande, Conan O’Brien, Jodie Comer, Jeremy Strong, and Jason Momoa were among those invited.
According to the Academy, this year’s class includes representatives from 60 countries, with 45% of the invitees belonging to underrepresented communities. Only those who accept the invitation will be added to the voting body, which currently includes over 10,000 eligible members.
The 2026 Oscars ceremony will take place on 15 March, with nominations set to be revealed on 22 January. Veteran host Conan O’Brien will host the event.
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Kalki 2898 AD showcased Prabhas in a genre-blending sci-fi mythological role
It’s been a year since Kalki 2898 AD hit theatres, and whether you loved it, questioned it, or are still figuring out what you watched, one thing’s clear: it cemented Prabhas’ place at the top. A unique experiment packed with mythology, sci-fi, and big-screen ambition, Kalki didn’t just push boundaries—it made sure everyone was paying attention.
Here’s how Kalki quietly reinforced what audiences across India (and beyond) already suspected: Prabhas isn’t going anywhere.
From Andhra to Ahmedabad — he still pulls crowds across the board
There are many stars who rule regions, but very few cut across states and languages the way Prabhas does. Whether it’s a traditional action flick or an experimental epic, people show up.
Prabhas in a still from Kalki 2898 AD which completed one yeargetty images
£94 million+ (₹1000 crore) globally — and not for the first time
With Kalki joining the £94 million+ (₹1000 crore) club, Prabhas added yet another big-budget success to his list. He’s one of the few actors in India whose films regularly cross that mark, without it feeling like a fluke or a one-off.
Kalki 2898 AD became one of the top three biggest openers in Indian cinemagetty images
A top three opener in Indian cinema — again
Kalki had one of the biggest opening days in Indian box office history. No gimmicks. Just the kind of theatre rush most films today struggle to pull off. Say what you want about the film, but its opening confirmed Prabhas’ continued draw for the big-screen crowd.
Kalki 2898 AD brought together sci-fi and mythology in a first-of-its-kind Indian filmgetty images
Fans flew in from Japan — yes, really
It’s not just India. International fans have long backed Prabhas, and Kalki saw that play out in real time, with Japanese fans travelling to Hyderabad just to catch it in cinemas. Not a premiere or event, just a regular screening. That kind of quiet loyalty is rare.
Prabhas plays the futuristic warrior Bhairava in Kalki 2898 AD getty images
He’s still choosing the harder road
A dystopian mytho-sci-fi mash-up isn’t exactly a guaranteed hit. Most stars would’ve played it safe, but Kalki was a risk, and Prabhas took it head-on. It’s part of what keeps his filmography interesting. He’s not here to repeat formulas, and that makes every new release worth watching, even if you don’t love every film.
Prabhas in action during a high-intensity sequence from Kalki 2898 ADgetty images
The calm at the centre of the chaos
One year later, Kalki 2898 AD may still be divisive as a film, but as a career move, it only strengthened what Prabhas has built over the years: a fanbase that shows up, a screen presence that works across regions, and a habit of picking stories that don’t play it safe.
Police may probe anti-Israel comments at Glastonbury