Ajay backs younger talent

Superstar Ajay Devgn is reportedly set to produce an ambitious period action-creature film for an OTT giant, with Siddhant Chaturvedi in the lead. The buzz is that Ajay was initially approached to play the parallel lead but he apparently declined, preferring to focus on theatrical releases. However, we have learnt that the script and its innovative premise impressed him enough to join as producer under his banner, Devgn Films. Mohit Raina is said to have stepped in for the parallel lead. Set against the backdrop of real-life events in India, in the year 1945, the film marks Neha Sharma’s directorial debut. Presently in pre-production phase, the film is expected to go on floors in October.

Jokes in Hindi in New York City

Zakir Khan at Madison Square Garden, New York

Comedian Zakir Khan recently created history by becoming the first Indian to perform a Hindi-language stand-up show at New York’s iconic Madison Square Garden. The 6000-seat venue was packed, and Zakir called it a “big day” as he shared the emotional moment on Instagram. “I am still processing [this]. Thode din baad theek se bataunga kaisa laga,” he wrote, adding that the milestone was special not just for him but also for Indian comedy and desi culture. Among those cheering him on were celebrity chef Vikas Khanna and actor Kal Penn. Zakir noted that fans had travelled hours, even flown in, to watch the show. Ahead of the event, his poster lit up Times Square.