USTAD ASHRAF SHARIF KHAN, SHAHBAZ HUSSAIN, AND FRIENDS – IN CONCERT
When: Sunday September 11
Where: Rich Mix, 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, London E1 6LA
What: Master sitar player Ashraf Sharif Khan and tabla maestro Shahbaz Hussain, along with special guests, will perform live on stage.
www.richmix.org.uk
RUPI KAUR
When: Friday September 16, Sunday September 18, and Monday September 19
Where: Corn Exchange, 2 Wheeler Street, Cambridge CB2 3QB; and Theatre Royal, New Road, Brighton BN1 1SD; and Gillian Lynne Theatre, 166 Drury Lane, London WC2B 5PF
What: The acclaimed poet continues her UK tour with a performance of unpublished pieces and greatest hits from her iconic books. She leads audiences on a journey of personal loss, love, growth, mental health, community, friendship, and strength. See website for further tour dates.
www.Rupikaur.com
THE KIRTAN BAND
When: Saturday September 17
Where: Mahadevi Yoga Centre, 12 Eden Grove, Stapleton House, London N7 8EQ
What: A spiritual evening of devotional songs (kirtan) performed by a passionate and dedicated band, combining singing and live music.
www.eventbrite.com
SAUDHA BANGLA MUSIC FESTIVAL
When: Sunday September 18
Where: Rich Mix, 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, London E1 6LA
What: Free event that sees leading singers of Indian and Bangladeshi origin celebrate the glorious evolution of Bangla music through world-class presentation of different genres.
www.richmix.org.uk
KANTHA KATHA-K
When: Tuesday September 20 – Wednesday September 21
What: A unique performance/installation from the Amina Khayyam Dance Company, narrating local stories originated during Covid lockdown
www.birminghamhippodrome.com
BALUJI
When: Friday September 23
Where: The Cut Arts Centre, Halesworth IP19 8BY, Suffolk IP19 8BY
What: Acclaimed multi-instrument musical maestro Baluji Shrivastav OBE will play special ancient melodies that evoke the majesty of music. He will be accompanied on tabla drums by Ustad Yusuf Ali Khan.
www.ticketsource.co.uk
PASOORI IN LONDON – ALI SETHI X SHAE GILL
When: Friday September 30
Where: Indigo at The O2, 205 Peninsula Square, London SE10 0ES
What: Concert headlined by Pakistani singers Ali Sethi and Shae Gill, who are the voices behind blockbuster hit Pasoori. They are supported by popular Pakistani music act Leo Twins.
www.theo2.co.uk
THEATRE
LIFE OF PI
When: Until Sunday October 30
Where: Wyndham’s Theatre, 32-36 Charing Cross Road, London WC2H 0DA
What: Theatre play based on Yann Martel’s Man Booker Prize-winning novel of the same name, which revolves around the sole human survivor of a shipwreck stuck on a lifeboat with a Bengal tiger, as they battle to survive an epic voyage across the ocean.
www.lifeofpionstage.com
BEYOND BOLLYWOOD
When: Until Saturday September 3
Where: Peacock Theatre, Portugal Street, London WC2A 2HT
What: The popular show returns to the West End. It takes audiences on a journey through Indian culture, dance, and music, while presenting the vibrancy and beauty of Bollywood.
www.sadlerswells.com
SILENCE
When: Thursday September 1 – Saturday September 17
What: Theatre adaptation of Kavita Puri’s acclaimed book Partition Voices: Untold British Stories, which is inspired by remarkable personal testimonies of people who lived through the last days of the British Raj.
www.donmarwarehouse.com
ANTIGONE
When: Saturday September 3 – Saturday September 24
Where: Open Air Theatre, Inner Circle, Regent’s Park, London NW1 4NU
What: Zainab Hasan takes on the title role in this contemporary retelling of Sophocles’s epic story with British Asian protagonists, revolving around family, conflict, and a hostile state.
www.openairtheatre.com
THE P WORD
When: Friday September 9 – Saturday October 22
Where: Bush Theatre, 7 Uxbridge Road, Shepherd’s Bush, London W12 8LJ
What: Waleed Akhtar’s sharp-witted and devastating new play charts the parallel lives of two gay Pakistani men, as it moves through casual hook-ups to the UK’s hostile environment.
www.bushtheatre.co.uk
MRS KAPOOR’S DAUGHTER’S WEDDING 2 MAURITIUS
When: Saturday September 10 – Sunday September 11 and Saturday September 24 – Sunday September 25
What: Fun-filled follow-up to popular theatre play Mrs Kapoor’s Daughter’s Wedding, which sees the dysfunctional family planning a destination wedding.
www.becktheatre.org.uk
GLITTERBALL
When: Thursday September 15 – Saturday September 24
What: The new play from acclaimed British Asian theatre company Rifco is a musical comedy that revolves around a divorced middle-aged woman navigating rocky friendships, who is trying to make sense of a past where she was brought up as one half of a Shirley
What: Acclaimed Indian stand-up comedian Vir Das brings his brand-new laughter-filled show to UK audiences and confronts important social issues head on.
www.becktheatre.org.uk
DESI CENTRAL COMEDY SHOW
When: Saturday September 17
Where: Elliot Hall in Harrow Arts Centre, 171 Uxbridge Road, Middlesex HA5 4EA
What: Popular comedy show featuring stand-up talents Firuz Ozari, Kane Brown, Tez Ilyas, Farhan Solo and Tommy Sandhu.
What: Stand-up show performed by London-based Indian comedian Ankit Grover, tackling a wide array of relatable subjects and his life as an NRI.
www.backyardcomedyclub.co.uk
NIMESH PATEL
When: Monday September 19
Where: The Comedy Store, 1a Oxendon Street, London SW1Y 4EE
What: Rising American comedy star Nimesh Patel delivers a one-night only show in London and will deliver his unique brand of laughter-filled stand-up humour.
london.thecomedystore.co.uk
CLASSES
FREE BHARATNATYAM CLASSES
When: Wednesdays September 7, 14, 21, 28 and Thursdays September 8, 15, 22, 29
What: The Consulate General of India in Birmingham is organising free and weekly dance classes on its premises. Participants need to register beforehand and will be allocated places on a first come first serve basis.
www.eventbrite.com
FULL DAY SIMPLE INDIAN COOKERY COURSE
When: Saturday September 10
Where: Hounslow, London
What: A trip to the local Indian shop to learn about ingredients will be followed by a practical hands-on cooking course learning how to make a variety of Indian dishes, along with learning how to use spices to add a depth of flavour. Check website for further cooking courses.
Actor and singer Suchitra Krishnamoorthi has issued a public apology after facing strong criticism on social media for questioning the survival story of Vishwas Kumar Ramesh, the sole survivor of the recent Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad.
Deleted post sparks backlash
The controversy began when Krishnamoorthi, known for her role in Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa, shared a now-deleted post on X (formerly Twitter) alleging that Vishwas Kumar Ramesh had fabricated his account of surviving the 12 June crash. In her post, she wrote: “So this #vishwaskumarramesh lied about being a passenger on the plane & the only survivor? This is seriously weird. Didn't his family in the UK corroborate his story? What about his brother's funeral that he was seen giving kandha to? Deserve not only some serious punishment but some mental asylum time if this is true uff.”
Krishnamoorthi deleted the post and issued a statement of apologyX/ suchitrak
Her comments appeared to have been influenced by unverified social media speculation claiming that Ramesh’s survival narrative was false. The post drew significant backlash from users who criticised her for spreading misinformation and making insensitive remarks without confirmation.
Public apology issued
In response to the mounting criticism, Krishnamoorthi deleted the post and issued a statement of apology, also on X. She wrote: “Took out my last tweet on the Air India crash survivor. Seems to be false news circulated for God knows what reason. My apologies.”
The apology was shared on 19 June 2025, but reactions have remained mixed, with some social media users accepting the clarification while others questioned the haste in making the original accusation.
Who is Vishwas Kumar Ramesh?
Vishwas Kumar Ramesh, a 40-year-old British national, is the only known survivor of the Air India crash that occurred in Ahmedabad on 12 June. The crash claimed the lives of at least 260 people.
Ramesh was reportedly seated in seat 11A, close to an emergency exit on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, and managed to escape the burning aircraft. He was treated for injuries at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital and was later seen attending the funeral of his brother Ajay, who also boarded the same flight to London but did not survive.
Suchitra Krishnamoorthi’s comments on social media questioning the legitimacy of a plane crash survivor’s account have drawn widespread criticism. Following the backlash, she deleted the post and issued a public apology, admitting the claim was based on false information.
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Real life inspires me more than fiction: Jay Thakkar on acting, ambition and human truths
Starting his journey on stage at the tender age of four, Jay Thakkar has grown up in front of the camera, having transformed from a precocious child performer into a versatile actor known for compelling roles across television, web, and cinema.
Whether mimicking dance moves in competitions as a child or biting into dark, psychologically complex characters as an adult, Thakkar has always approached his craft with sincerity, resilience, and emotional depth. His latest project, Bhool Chuk Maaf, a time-loop Bollywood film, was recently released on Amazon Prime. It marks yet another bold turn in a career built on fearless choices. In this exclusive interview with Eastern Eye, he reflects on key roles, lessons learned, working with legends, what drives him as an artist, and his future. He also shares fond memories of working with the late actor Sushant Singh Rajput.
Jay Thakkar
How do you reflect on your journey as an actor?
As a child, I participated in various competitions and often found myself mimicking actors and dance performances. These early experiences instilled in me a love for performance and storytelling. Over the years, facing both opportunities and rejections, I’ve grown as an actor and individual. Each experience, whether triumphant or challenging, has shaped my perspective and deepened my commitment to the craft. Performing never felt like a task – it felt like expression. These collective experiences have given me an understanding of resilience, humility, and growth – lessons I still carry with me every day.
Which of the roles has been closest to your heart?
The role of Sethji in Colors TV’s Laagi Tujhse Lagan holds a special place in my heart. Produced by Paresh Rawal and Hemal Thakkar, this character took me on an emotional journey – from innocence to a young gangster, and finally to a heartbroken child dealing with his mother’s incarceration. Adopting the ‘tapori Bambaiyaa’ accent and portraying a lower-middle-class chawl boy added layers to the character. This role allowed me to explore a wide emotional spectrum, making it both challenging and rewarding. It taught me that even in a limited arc, if the emotions are real, they leave a lasting impact.
Which project challenged you the most as an actor?
Portraying psycho-terrorist Muzammil in Sony LIV’s Adrishyam was one of my most demanding roles. The character was sociopathic, merciless, and completely devoid of empathy. In one intense scene, he bites off his father’s ear and, during interrogation, chews on his own nails – highlighting how unhinged he is. Sharing the screen with Divyanka Tripathi, who played an Indian secret agent, added further intensity to the performance. It pushed me to dive deep into the psyche of someone emotionally detached from humanity. I had to access a kind of darkness I had never explored before – it changed me as an actor.
Does your approach change between film and television?
Yes and no. Technically, film allows more time for introspection and preparation, while television trains you to think on your feet. But emotionally, my commitment remains the same. Whether it is a 30-second scene or a three-minute monologue, I aim to serve the character with authenticity and heart. The medium may shift, but my mindset is always rooted in honesty and empathy. Television’s fast-paced nature demands quick adaptability, often with limited preparation time.
Jay Thakkar
And what about film?
In contrast, films allow for deeper exploration of character and more time to develop nuance. But regardless of the medium, my approach stays consistent: understand the character’s psyche fully and deliver a performance that resonates with the audience.
What was the experience of working on Bhool Chuk Maaf?
It was a transformative experience. I spent months preparing – working with a dialect coach and immersing myself in Banaras to learn the local slang and tone. That preparation was essential to bring authenticity to the role. Working alongside Rajkummar Rao, Wamiqa Gabbi, and legends like Sanjay Mishra ji and Seema Pahwa ji was enlightening.
Do any moments from the shoot stand out?
Yes, one in particular. During a dance sequence, Rajkummar and director Karan Sharma sir noticed my energy and insisted I join the song, even though I had not rehearsed. Their encouragement made me feel valued and reinforced the collaborative spirit on set. There was a deep respect for the craft throughout the team. When you are surrounded by such passion, it does not feel like work – it feels like purpose.
You also worked with Sushant Singh Rajput on Pavitra Rishta. What are your fondest memories of him?
Sushant bhaiya was pure magic on set. He stayed grounded, no matter how much fame came his way. He would joke with me, share his food, and talk to everyone like a playful, innocent child. He once told me, “Never stop being a student of life,” and that has stayed with me. He was not just an actor – he was a thinker, a dreamer, and a beacon of humility. I fondly remember him stealing theplas from my tiffin during shoots.
Jay Thakkar
Tell us more about your time working with him.
Even as his fame grew, he remained humble and generous with his time. He encouraged me and offered guidance. His dedication to acting and his authenticity left a lasting impression. One of my favourite memories is him telling me to stay curious and keep learning – advice I live by today.
What can audiences expect next from you?
I am looking forward to the release of my next film, Apna Amitabh. I am also part of a web series titled Pranksters. I have done several high-profile ads and am in talks for new film and series projects that will begin soon. Right now, I am focused on roles that challenge me and say something meaningful. I am not in a rush, but I am hungry for layered storytelling.
Do you have a dream role?
I am drawn to characters that challenge societal norms and explore deep emotional layers. I would love to play a morally grey protagonist – someone who is flawed, yet relatable. Such roles let you explore the full range of human behaviour and complexity. I would love to play a conflicted revolutionary – someone who walks the line between right and wrong and makes the audience think. Such characters allow you to show both strength and vulnerability.
Who is your acting hero?
Shah Rukh Khan has always inspired me. His journey from humble beginnings to global stardom shows what passion and dedication can achieve. His emotional range and authenticity on screen are remarkable. Internationally, I admire Denzel Washington – the intensity and depth he brings to every role is powerful. Both actors prove how cinema can transform and move people.
Jay Thakkar
If you could master something new, what would it be?
I would love to master calisthenics, martial arts, and classical Indian dance. These disciplines train not only the body but also the mind and spirit. As an actor, your body is your instrument. The more control and expression you develop, the more powerful your performance becomes – sometimes without saying a single word.
What inspires you as an actor?
Real life inspires me more than fiction ever could – the flaws, contradictions, and hopes people carry. I observe unspoken gestures – a tired smile, a long pause, a look of doubt. Every person is carrying a story, and as an actor, it is my job to honour that with honesty. The struggles and triumphs of everyday people drive my passion. Everyone has a unique narrative, and I want to bring those stories to life with empathy and truth. The human experience is endlessly rich – and it reminds me why cinema matters.
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Janhvi Kapoor and Shikhar Pahariya walk the streets of London together fans react to viral video
Actor Janhvi Kapoor was recently spotted in London, walking hand-in-hand with rumoured boyfriend Shikhar Pahariya in a video that has since gone viral. Captured by a passerby, the clip shows the duo casually strolling through the streets. Dressed in relaxed outfits, Janhvi in a black tube top and joggers, and Shikhar in a mint green tee with white trousers, the pair looked at ease in each other’s presence. Janhvi’s sister Khushi Kapoor was also seen walking nearby, playing third wheel.
While Janhvi and Shikhar have never publicly confirmed their relationship, moments like these continue to fuel speculation. From dinner outings to joint appearances at major events, the signs have long been there. Janhvi has also worn a necklace with Shikhar’s name in the past, and he frequently posts photos of her on social media.
This isn’t the first time the internet has buzzed with talk of the two. Their quiet presence together over the years, including a joint appearance at this year’s Cannes Film Festival for the premiere of Janhvi’s upcoming film Homebound, has kept fans guessing. The film, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, also stars Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa.
Janhvi had briefly opened up about her dynamic with Shikhar on Koffee With Karan Season 8. When Karan Johar cheekily asked if she had gone back to dating Shikhar after a break, Janhvi smiled and said, “Have you heard that song Nadaan Parindey Ghar Aaja? Shikhar used to sing that to me a lot.”
Shikhar Pahariya's Instagram post on Diwali Instagram/shikharpahariya
Shikhar Pahariya, the grandson of former Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde and son of producer-actor Smruti Shinde, has kept a relatively low profile despite the public curiosity. His brother, Veer Pahariya, recently debuted in Bollywood with Sky Force.
What’s next for Janhvi Kapoor
Janhvi, meanwhile, has a packed schedule. She stars in Param Sundari, a romantic comedy with Sidharth Malhotra set in Kerala, releasing on 25 July. She’s also reuniting with Varun Dhawan for Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari, a family entertainer slated for September. A sports-action film titled Peddi, co-starring Ram Charan and scored by AR Rahman, is also on the list for 2026.
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Kuberaa Twitter reviews call Dhanush’s performance his best and praise Sekhar Kammula’s storytelling
Sekhar Kammula’s Kuberaa, starring Dhanush, Nagarjuna, and Rashmika Mandanna, hit theatres on 20 June and has quickly made waves online. Reactions across social media, particularly Twitter, have described the film as a bold, emotionally rich crime drama with standout performances, especially from Dhanush. Audiences have called it a “rare gem” in today’s commercial landscape and one of the best Telugu-Tamil bilingual films of 2025 so far.
Dhanush’s career-best, Rashmika’s surprise, and Nagarjuna’s steady hand
The highlight of most audience reviews is Dhanush’s performance, hailed by many as his “career-best” and even “National Award-worthy.” His portrayal of Deva, a beggar caught in a complex web of crime and morality, has been described as transformative and deeply immersive. One viewer wrote that few actors could pull off such a layered character with the same mannerisms in multiple avatars. Fans have also praised Rashmika Mandanna, calling this her strongest performance yet. Her portrayal is described as subtle yet powerful, giving the character both vulnerability and resilience. Nagarjuna’s presence, though noted to be slightly underused, was still appreciated for its gravitas and emotional weight.
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Sekhar Kammula’s direction was lauded for steering clear of formulaic mass elements, there are no item numbers or excessive heroism and instead relying on a grounded narrative. Viewers appreciated the film’s quiet intensity, emotional pacing, and the director’s ability to build tension without gimmicks. Cinematographer Niketh Bommireddy received special praise for his frames and lighting, with many calling the visuals “painterly” and emotionally charged. Devi Sri Prasad’s background score was also credited for amplifying the film’s emotional beats.
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Long runtime, uneven pacing but still worth the ride
Despite widespread acclaim, some viewers felt Kuberaa’s three-hour-plus runtime could have been tighter. A few pointed out that the second half dragged slightly and the climax felt rushed compared to the strong build-up. Others mentioned that some of Kammula’s philosophical themes did not fully land in execution. Still, even the critics agreed the film is a worthwhile experience that deviates from standard commercial fare.
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In all, Kuberaa is being celebrated as a rare cinematic effort: emotionally grounded, superbly acted, and visually distinctive. Whether or not it’s a perfect film, audiences seem to agree that this is Dhanush’s show, and it’s one worth watching.
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Stephen Fry says JK Rowling's views on trans rights have crossed the line
Stephen Fry has spoken out against JK Rowling’s stance on trans issues, saying the author has become “radicalised” and calling her views “cruel” and “mocking”. This is, in fact, a significant shift from Fry, who had previously refused to take sides in the heated debate surrounding Rowling’s statements on gender identity.
In a recent interview, the 66-year-old British actor, author and longtime LGBTQ+ advocate said Rowling’s repeated comments had crossed a line. “She has been radicalised, I fear, perhaps by TERFs, but also by the sheer backlash she’s faced,” he said. “I’m afraid she seems to be a lost cause for us.”
— (@)
Fry says Rowling’s tone has changed for the worse
Fry, who famously narrated all seven Harry Potter audiobooks, said he once enjoyed Rowling’s company and admired her wit, but feels her recent behaviour is no longer something he can overlook. “She says things that are inflammatory, contemptuous, and mocking,” he said. “It’s a terribly distressing time for trans people, and her words only make it worse.”
He added that while public debate is important, Rowling’s rhetoric has contributed to a toxic atmosphere. “There’s bullying, violence, and suicide in the trans community,” he said. “It’s not the time for smugness or cigar selfies on yachts.” This was in reference to Rowling’s post celebrating a recent UK Supreme Court ruling that defined women by biological sex, something LGBTQ+ charity Stonewall called “deeply worrying” for trans people.
Fry joins Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson in supporting the trans communityGetty Images
Fry also reflected on the damage done by shouting on both sides of the issue: “Screaming ‘transphobe’ at anyone who doesn’t agree with every detail doesn’t help either. You have to let people love you.”
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Cast and colleagues have also distanced themselves from Rowling
Fry now joins Harry Potter stars Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint in publicly rejecting Rowling’s stance. All three actors have declared support for trans rights in recent years. By contrast, Tom Felton, who played Draco Malfoy, has remained neutral, choosing instead to focus on Rowling’s legacy as a writer.
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This growing divide among those closest to the Harry Potter universe shows how Rowling’s position has shifted the conversation from literary legacy to personal ethics and how even long-time allies like Fry are no longer staying silent.