Renowned South Indian actor Kamal Haasan has extended his heartfelt best wishes to Punjabi cinema star Gippy Grewal for his ambitious upcoming film, Akaal. The gesture, shared earlier today, highlights the growing camaraderie between the South Indian and Punjabi film industries, further strengthened by the collaboration between Grewal and Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions.
The film, set to release on April 10, 2025, during the festive occasion of Baisakhi, is a bilingual project presented in both Punjabi and Hindi.
Gippy Grewal, who is not only starring in but also writing and directing Akaal, responded with gratitude, saying, “Thank you so much, Kamal Haasan Sir! Your kind words mean everything to our Akaal movie.” Grewal’s response, accompanied by a beaming emoji, was shared on X at 1:55 PM IST today, reflecting his appreciation for the veteran actor’s support.
Akaal, described as a tribute to the bravery and resilience of the Sikh Warriors —has already generated significant buzz. The film boasts a stellar cast, including Gurpreet Ghuggi, Nimrat Khaira, Shinda Grewal, Nikitin Dheer, and Mita Vasisht, and features music by the acclaimed trio Shankar Ehsaan Loy. Backed by an impressive lineup of producers, including Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, Bhumika Tewari, Gippy Grewal, and Ravneet Kaur Grewal, the movie marks Dharma Productions’ first foray into Punjabi cinema.
The trailer, released earlier this month on March 18, has been widely praised for its grand fight sequences.
Kamal Haasan’s endorsement adds a significant boost to the film’s anticipation. Known as ‘Ulaganayagan’ (Universal Hero) for his versatile contributions to Indian cinema, Haasan’s support underscores the pan-Indian appeal of Akaal. With Haasan’s blessings and Gippy Grewal’s multifaceted involvement, the film is set to make waves when it hits screens on April 10, 2025.
Author: Monita Sharma
Trailer Review: Akaal Promises a Gripping Historical Epic with Gippy Grewal at Its Helm
The much-anticipated trailer for Akaal, Gippy Grewal’s ambitious historical epic, dropped today, and it’s already setting the stage for a cinematic spectacle. Releasing worldwide on April 10, 2025, in both Punjabi and Hindi, this collaboration between Dharma Productions and Humble Motion Pictures Fzco marks a bold foray into Punjab’s rich history, with Grewal not only starring but also writing and directing. The trailer, unveiled on the heels of Grewal’s birthday teaser in January, offers a tantalizing glimpse into a tale of valor, sacrifice, and Sikh warrior spirit—and it doesn’t disappoint.
From the opening frame, the trailer plunges viewers into a world of high stakes and unrelenting courage. Grewal’s Akaal Singh emerges as a formidable force, his piercing gaze and commanding presence underscored by the stirring line: “Singh sir kattwauno nahin murhde, murh jande muh talwaran de” (Sikhs don’t bow their heads to be cut; they face the swords head-on). It’s a declaration of defiance that sets the tone for what promises to be an emotionally charged narrative rooted in real events about Sikh warriors. The visuals—sweeping battlefields, clashing swords, and moments of quiet resolve—evoke a visceral sense of pride and resilience.
The trailer’s strength lies in its balance of grandeur and grit. Backed by a powerhouse cast including Gurpreet Ghuggi, Nimrat Khaira, Nikitin Dheer, and Mita Vashisht, alongside Grewal’s sons Shinda and Ekom, Akaal hints at a multi-layered story. Ghuggi’s fleeting appearance suggests a blend of levity amidst the intensity, while Khaira’s poised elegance hints at a pivotal emotional anchor. The ominous presence of Dheer, likely a formidable antagonist, adds tension, teasing a clash that’s as personal as it is epic. The trailer’s editing is sharp, cutting between action-packed sequences and poignant moments—like a warrior’s blood-streaked face or a lingering shot of a tattered flag—leaving you hungry for the full story.
Musically, the trailer leans on the acclaimed trio Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, with vocals teased from heavyweights like Arijit Singh, Sonu Nigam, and Sukhwinder Singh. The background score pulses with urgency, amplifying the trailer’s intensity, though it holds back on revealing too much of the soundtrack—likely saving those gems for the theatrical experience. Happy Raikoti’s lyrics, glimpsed in the poetic dialogue, promise to weave Punjab’s cultural soul into the film’s fabric.
Visually, Akaal looks ambitious. The cinematography captures the raw beauty of Punjab’s landscapes juxtaposed against the chaos of war, with a color palette that shifts from earthy tones to fiery reds—mirroring the narrative’s emotional arc. Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions brings its signature polish, elevating this Punjabi venture into a pan-India contender, while Grewal’s directorial vision ensures it stays authentic to its roots.
If there’s a quibble, it’s that the trailer keeps its cards close to the chest—offering little about the plot beyond its historical premise and warrior ethos. But that mystery might just be its ace, building anticipation for a story Grewal has called a “passion project” about Sikh heritage. With Johar touting it as a film that “resonates beyond borders,” Akaal seems poised to bridge regional cinema with mainstream appeal.
The trailer leaves you with a rush of adrenaline and a taste of pride, signaling that Akaal could be more than just a film—it’s a tribute. Come April 10, expect theaters to echo with the roar of swords and the heartbeat of Punjab. For now, this trailer is a battle cry worth rallying behind.
Post-Holi Organic Skincare Tips by Beauty Expert Richa Agarwal (For All Skin Types)
Holi colours can leave your skin dry, irritated, and dull. To protect your skin and remove colours naturally, beauty expert Richa Agarwal recommends following these organic and herbal tips based on your skin type, without harsh scrubbing or exfoliation.
🌿 Step 1: Gentle Color Removal (For All Skin Types)
Avoid using harsh soaps or scrubs as they can damage your skin.
• Take cold-pressed coconut oil or olive oil and gently massage it onto your face and body. This will help dissolve the colours naturally.
• Use a soft cotton pad to wipe off the colours.
• Wash your face with a mild herbal face wash or raw milk mixed with rose water.
🌸 Step 2: Hydrating Toner (To Calm the Skin After Color Removal)
For Oily Skin:
• Use rose water or witch hazel toner to control excess oil and balance pH levels.
For Dry Skin:
• Apply aloe vera gel mixed with cucumber juice for deep hydration and soothing effect.
For Sensitive Skin:
• Dab chamomile or lavender water to reduce redness and inflammation.
🍃 Step 3: Herbal Face Pack to Restore Glow (Choose as per Your Skin Type)
For Oily Skin:
Neem and Multani Mitti Pack
• Mix neem powder, multani mitti, and rose water.
• Apply and let it dry for 10-15 minutes.
• Rinse with lukewarm water.
For Dry Skin:
Curd and Honey Pack
• Mix fresh curd, honey, and a pinch of turmeric.
• Apply for 15 minutes and wash off with plain water.
For Sensitive Skin:
Aloe Vera and Sandalwood Pack
• Mix fresh aloe vera gel with sandalwood powder and rose water.
• Keep for 10-15 minutes and rinse off.
✅ Pro Tip for All Skin Types:
• Apply aloe vera gel or light almond oil before sleeping to heal the skin overnight.
• Drink plenty of water and detox with herbal green tea to keep your skin glowing from within.
With these organic and natural post-Holi skincare tips, you can remove Holi colours without damaging your skin while keeping it healthy and radiant.
Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions Joins Forces with Gippy Grewal’s Humble Motion Pictures For AKAAL
In a groundbreaking collaboration, Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions has teamed up with Gippy Grewal’s Humble Motion Pictures Fzco to bring audiences Akaal, a historical epic set to release on April 10, 2025. This ambitious project marks Dharma’s exciting venture into Punjabi cinema while also expanding its reach with a release in Hindi, promising a pan-India cinematic experience. The film, slated to hit theaters worldwide during the festive occasion of Baisakhi, is poised to celebrate the rich history and resilience of Sikh warriors in a grand narrative based on true events.
Akaal is written and directed by Gippy Grewal, who also stars in the lead role, bringing his signature flair as a multifaceted talent to the forefront.
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Nimrat Khaira, Gurpreet Ghuggi, Nikitin Dheer, Mita Vashisht, Shinda Grewal, Ekom Grewal, Jaggi Singh, Ashish Duggal, Bhana La, Harinder Bhullar, and Jarnail Singh, ensuring a blend of seasoned performers and fresh faces. The music, a key element in amplifying the film’s emotional depth, is composed by the acclaimed trio Shankar Ehsaan Loy, marking their collaboration with this historic saga.
On the production front, Akaal is helmed by a powerhouse team. Alongside Karan Johar, the film is produced by Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, and Bhumika Tewari from Dharma Productions, as well as Gippy Grewal and Ravneet Kaur Grewal from Humble Motion Pictures Fzco. This collaboration underscores Dharma’s continued evolution as a pan-India force, following its successful backing of blockbusters like Baahubali and Devara, while Humble Motion Pictures brings its deep-rooted expertise in Punjabi cinema to the table.
Chal Mera Putt 4 Begins Shooting: Amrinder Gill returns with Simi Chahal in this Rhythm Boyz’ Production
Fans of Amrinder Gill have a reason to rejoice as the production of Chal Mera Putt 4, the next installment in the hugely popular comedy-drama franchise, officially kicked off this week. The announcement has sparked excitement across the Punjabi film industry and among audiences worldwide, who have been eagerly awaiting the continuation of the beloved series.
Directed by Janjot Singh and produced by Rhythm Boyz Entertainment in collaboration with Gillz Network and Omjee Star Studios, the film promises to deliver the signature blend of humor, heart, and cultural resonance that made its predecessors box-office hits. The Chal Mera Putt series, known for its lighthearted take on the lives of Punjabi immigrants, has garnered a massive following since its debut in 2019, with each installment breaking records and winning over fans globally.
While plot details remain under wraps, sources close to the production hint that Chal Mera Putt 4 will continue to explore themes of friendship, identity, and the immigrant experience, all wrapped in the franchise’s trademark comedic charm.
Leading the cast once again is Amrinder Gill, whose endearing portrayal of Jinder has become a fan favorite. He will be joined by Simi Chahal, who returns as the spirited Savy, alongside a talented ensemble including Iftikhar Thakur, Nasir Chinyoti, and Akram Udas, who have become synonymous with the series’ laugh-out-loud moments. Rumors are also swirling about potential cameo appearances, though no official confirmation has been made. The last installment – Chal Mera Putt 3 was released in 2021.
Industry insiders predict that the film will hit theaters in late 2025 or early 2026, though an official release date is yet to be announced. As production progresses, fans can expect more updates, including a teaser or trailer, in the coming months.
For now, the start of shooting marks the beginning of another chapter in this cinematic journey, and if the buzz is anything to go by, Chal Mera Putt 4 is poised to be yet another feather in the cap of Punjabi cinema.
Stay tuned for more updates as the film takes shape!
International Women’s Day: W.E.E.D initiative launched to empower women entrepreneurs
Chandigarh, March 8, 2025: In a path-breaking development, the Women Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Development (W.E.E.D) initiative, a structured one-year program dedicated to fostering women-led start-ups, was officially unveiled at a press conference held at Press Club, Chandigarh.
W.E.E.D, a brain child of Navneet Kaur Dhillon, a former Femina Miss India World, actress, and entrepreneur, is a significant step towards empowering women entrepreneurs by providing them with mentorship, funding opportunities, and industry connections crucial for scaling their ventures.
“W.E.E.D initiative is designed to address key areas vital for business where we will provide women entrepreneurs access to a strong network of mentors, investors, and experts,” said Navneet Kaur Dhillon at the press meet.
Navneet, on being asked about the reason for crossing over from the entertainment industry and taking on a new role of ‘mentor to women entrepreneurs’ said: “I have always been passionate about women empowerment. I conceptualised W.E.E.D as I wanted to do something concrete to empower women. I feel that as a pageant winner, my exposure & experience will help me connect and reach out to women with start-up ideas and encourage them to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.”
Sharing his thoughts on the occasion, Sahil Makkar, Chairman and CEO of Punjab Angels Network (PAN) – which is committed to developing the start-up ecosystem in the region, and owns W.E.E.D as its subsidiary, said: “Through W.E.E.D, we will facilitate collaborations and partnerships for expanding reach. Through investor engagement, we will link high-potential women-led start-ups with investors for business scaling. We will help start-ups connect with financial resources to accelerate growth”
In reply to a question from the media, Makkar, an alumnus of the Indian School of Business (ISB) and executive education from IIM, Bangalore, who brings over 13 years of experience as a CA and finance educator, said: “PAN has played a pivotal role in creating a thriving start-up ecosystem in the region.”
“Similarly, WEED is an initiative that will provide the much-needed support and will facilitate women entrepreneurs to thrive. Through mentorship, funding, and networking, we aim to bridge the gap and create a strong foundation for women-led businesses,” added Makkar, who has written two books on start-ups — How to raise Start-up funding in India and How to Manage Finance @ Start-up’s.
Navneet Kaur Dhillon & Sahil Makkar revealed that the W.E.E.D Program will initially select 10 women entrepreneurs for an intensive three-month mentorship, followed by the inclusion of 10 more women, focusing on scaling their businesses over the next nine months.
With a strong vision to support women from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, WEED aims to create a lasting impact by addressing challenges faced by women entrepreneurs and providing them with the tools and networks necessary for success, they said.
Meanwhile, the launch of WEED coincided with Transform 13.0, an event featuring a line-up of esteemed speakers and experts in women entrepreneurship. Insightful thoughts were shared by Pooja Nayar, Founder of Pratham HR and Legal Solutions, Chair, PHDCCI SHE Forum; Dr Nancy Juneja, CEO and Founder of MENTORx, also a TEDx and Josh Speaker; Ms Mamta Bhardwaj, COO, STPI NEURON Centre of Excellence(CoE) Mohali; Ms Isha Taneja, Co-Founder and CEO of Complere Infosystem, also TiE Women Chair, TiE Chandigarh, and Anuradha Chawla, Founder and CEO of Bbetter Solutions, also a performance coach and corporate trainer.
Women entrepreneurs who wish to apply for mentorship support for their start-ups can get in touch on the following email id: weed@punjabangelsnetwork.com.
“Kan Kan” from Akaal: Shankar Mahadevan and Shreya Ghoshal lend their voices to this soul-stirring song on Sikh Warriors
After the title track, “Kan Kan” from Akaal has been released, and is nothing short of extraordinary! The release of this song isa historic moment for the Punjabi music industry, as it features the legendary voices of Shankar Mahadevan and Shreya Ghoshal, both making their debut in Punjabi music.
Written and directed by Gippy Grewal, Akaal is set to hit theaters on April 10, 2025. The film is based on the life, valor, and sacrifice of Sikh warriors, promising a grand cinematic tribute to their legacy. Gippy Grewal plays the lead role, with Nimrat Khaira as the female lead, portraying a warrior. The film also features powerhouse performers like Gurpreet Ghuggi, Prince Kanwaljit Singh, Jarnail Singh, and more.
Musically, “Kan Kan” is a blend of sweetness and strength. Shreya Ghoshal’s voice adds a soothing, divine touch, while Shankar Mahadevan’s deep and soulful vocals infuse the song with power and emotion. The composition done by the trio of Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, is uplifting.
The visuals of “Kan Kan” are equally impressive. The grand production value makes every frame cinematic and immersive. The video beautifully showcases the richness of Punjabi culture, particularly highlighting Sikh family traditions and rituals.
“Kan Kan” is a perfect 5/5, both musically and visually. It has already created a buzz among fans, raising excitement for the film’s trailer and eventual release on April 10, 2025.
OTT platform ‘Oceaniek Stream’ launched with premiere of its new show ‘Wedding India The Culture Love’
“We will present family oriented infotainment in an OTT landscape filled with ‘black humour’ & unwarranted content,” Jaspreet Preeti Shahid, Producer, Wedding India The Culture Love’ Show.
To make a wave in the digital entertainment world, a new OTT platform, Oceaniek Stream, was formally unveiled with its logo by Oceaniek International at a grand launch event held at Hyatt Regency, Chandigarh.
The evening was filled with glamour and excitement, as a galaxy of stars from the Pollywood and Bollywood industries graced the grand launch, adding their sparkle to the event. In addition to the launch, on this momentous occasion, an exciting and innovative new show, Wedding India The Culture Love, was introduced on Oceaniek Stream. The show will showcase the beautiful, rich tapestry of Indian weddings, rituals, customs, and traditions. It was also announced that Invest Oceaniek is another project that is in the pipeline.
Speaking at the launch, Jaspreet Preeti Shahid, Producer, Wedding India The Culture Love Show , said, “The OTT platform, Oceaniek Stream, is a revolutionary service set to transform the OTT landscape. It will feature content spanning Bollywood, Hollywood, Korean, Japanese, and more, streaming across 48 countries. What makes this platform unique is that we have curated it with a combination of content creation, strategic planning, advanced technological infrastructure, and user engagement to offer audiences a unique and seamless viewing experience.”
Preeti added, “The OTT space has been besieged by issues of offensive content as has been witnessed in the current times in relation to remarks made on OTT by renowned podcasters. We have carefully curated our content and will present family oriented infotainment, offering a whiff of fresh air in an OTT landscape filled with ‘black humour’ & unwarranted content.”
Meanwhile, sharing insights on the new show, Wedding India The Culture Love, Rohit Kumar, Show Director, Oceaniek Stream , said, “Wedding India The Culture Love is an immersive celebration of the vibrant and diverse traditions of Indian weddings. As India is known for its rich cultural diversity, traditions, and myriad languages, we aim to take our viewers on a captivating journey across different states of India, showcasing our intricate and beautiful wedding rituals, traditions, and customs.”
He added that the show will feature elaborate wedding ceremonies that vary from region to region, covering heartfelt moments shared by families. There will be 6 episodes for each state, totalling 150 episodes from 29 states.
Jimmy Sharma, Actor and Anchor of Wedding India The Culture Love on Oceaniek Stream, further explained, “Notably, what makes Oceaniek Stream unique from other OTT platforms is that it allows users to post reels or YouTube Shorts, which will be monetized directly in the users’ accounts.”
During the event, the premiere for Wedding India The Culture Love was also held, captivating the audience.
Rohit Kumar in conclusion said, “We are positioned quite differently and are adding value to the OTT Industry. If you want to start a business and share your idea, our team will review it. If the team likes the idea, they will invest in your business. Along with entertainment, this is a great opportunity for growth. Our niche is that we provide funding as well.”
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From Love-Infused Delicacies to Enchanting Ambience – Celebrate Valentine’s at The Tivoli
This Valentine’s Day, The Tivoli, Chattarpur sets the stage for an unforgettable celebration of love with a specially curated Valentine’s Menu, designed for couples looking to indulge in a romantic dining experience.
Tivoli has crafted a heartwarming selection of delicacies, featuring heart-shaped bakery delights, a healthy yet indulgent range of cheese platters, quinoa and avocado salads, artisanal bruschetta, and gourmet pizzas.
For the main course, couples can savor a thoughtfully curated selection of dishes that are both romantic and indulgent. The Indian spread includes classics like Dal Makhani, Butter Chicken, Paneer Lababdar, and Dum Biryani, perfectly paired with flaky butter naans. From the Chinese kitchen, guests can enjoy Exotic Stir-Fried Vegetables in Oyster Sauce, Kung Pao Chicken, and Aromatic Jasmine Fried Rice, each dish adding an element of elegance to the evening.
To end the night on a sweet note, the dessert selection includes heart-shaped chocolate truffle cakes, red velvet brownies, strawberry mousse, and classic tiramisu, making for a perfect indulgence for couples with a sweet tooth.
The experience is further elevated with a selection of signature drinks and refreshing mocktails, ensuring the perfect pairing for every bite.
Guests can choose between two mesmerizing settings—a dreamy experience by the poolside or an intimate candle lit dining experience inside Blue Grotto, the hotel’s elegant 24-hour coffee shop.
Event Details:
📅 Date: 11th February – 15th February 2025
⏰ Timings: 1:00 PM onwards
💑 Meal for Two: ₹2200 + taxes
Celebrate love in style this Valentine’s at Tivoli Hotel, Chattarpur—where every moment is crafted to perfection.
Cleopatra Salon & Makeovers Decoded Valentine’s Day Makeover Trends
This Valentine’s Day, Cleopatra Salon & Makeovers redefined beauty with a special makeover event, unveiling the latest romantic looks. Led by Makeover Expert & Founder Richa Agarwal and Beauty Expert Harveen Kathuriya, the session highlighted trending makeup styles, helping women achieve the perfect date-night glam.
The Valentine’s Lookbook
From soft, radiant skin to bold, statement lips, the session showcased a variety of on-trend looks inspired by global beauty forecasts. Subtle nude skin makeup emerged as the top pick for those who prefer effortless elegance, while bold red and berry lips took center stage for those wanting a dramatic edge. Floral accents, a fresh addition this year, completed the look, making beauty feel more expressive and romantic.
Richa Agarwal, Founder of Cleopatra Salon & Makeovers, emphasized the importance of embracing individual beauty: “Valentine’s makeup is all about confidence and expressing your personality. While dewy, hydrated skin remains a classic, this year we see a shift towards bolder lip shades, paired with minimal eye makeup. It’s all about balance and effortless glamour.”
Valentine’s Makeup Trends 2025
Global beauty trends also highlighted skinimalism—embracing natural, well-hydrated skin with lightweight foundation and soft blush. Glossy lips, monochrome makeup, and pastel eyeshadows are also making waves. Cleopatra’s event brought these trends to life, tailoring them to Indian skin tones and preferences.
Beauty Expert Harveen Kathuriya shared her insights: *“This Valentine’s, beauty is playful yet sophisticated. We’re seeing a mix of barely-there foundation with a focus on fresh, glowing skin. A single *bold element—be it lips, eyes, or even a floral hair accessory—adds that romantic touch.”
The Power of One Accessory
A standout moment at the preview was the “One Flower Accessory” trend, where Cleopatra’s experts demonstrated how a single flower—be it tucked in the hair, pinned to an outfit, or used as a statement piece—can elevate any look. Soft pinks, deep reds, and pastel hues dominated the Valentine’s palette, complementing the delicate floral additions.
The event wrapped up with live makeovers, offering a firsthand experience of Cleopatra’s signature transformations. With personalized beauty tips and expert-led styling, the salon ensured that every woman walked out feeling confident, radiant, and Valentine’s-ready.