Varun Mitra is an Indian actor, model, and anchor. He is known for his work in the Hindi films and web series.

Wiki/Biography

Varun Mitra was born on Saturday, 20 October 1990 (age 33 years; as of 2023) in Delhi. His zodiac sign is Libra.

A childhood image of Varun Mitra

He did his schooling at The Shri Ram School, Moulsari, Gurugram. He pursued B.Com (Hons) at Shaheed Bhagat Singh College, University of Delhi. ^[1]Facebook – Varun Mitra ^[2]Hindustan Times

Physical Appearance

Height (approx.): 5′ 9″

Weight (approx.): 70 kg

Hair Colour: Black

Eye Colour: Black

Body Measurements (approx.): Chest: 38″, Waist: 32″, Biceps: 14″

Family

Parents & Siblings

His father’s name is Pradip Mitra.

Varun Mitra with his father

Wife

He is unmarried.

Career

Host

Varun Mitra started his career in the entertainment industry as a host for the travel TV show ‘2 For The Road’ (2012), which was broadcast on NDTV GoodTimes. In 2013, he appeared as a host for NDTV GoodTimes’s another travel TV show named ‘Good Drives,’ sponsored by Tata Safari.

Varun Mitra in a still from the TV show ‘Good Drives’

In 2020, he was featured in the Discovery Channel TV show ‘Emission Impossible,’ sponsored by Hyundai Kona Electric. In the show, he travelled to Mt Everest base camp.

Varun Mitra (left) in a still from the TV show ‘Emission Impossible’

He has anchored a few more travel TV shows such as ‘Imagine Your Korea’ (2014) on NDTV GoodTimes, ‘Go North East’ (2017) on Discovery Channel, and ‘Go Odisha’ (2018) on Discovery Channel.

Model

Television Commercial

Varun Mitra gained immense popularity after he was featured in a television commercial for Amazon Kindle Paperwhite in 2014.

In 2015, he appeared in the short film ‘Rangeen’ for an advertisement for a clothing brand named ‘Free People.’ He appeared alongside Katrina Kaif in a television commercial for Titan Raga watches. He has also been featured in the television commercials for several brands including Pepsi, Bajaj Insurance, Hero Passion Bike, Nissan Sunny Car, and Amazon Prime Video.

Varun Mitra in a still from an advertisement for Pepsi

Fashion Shows

Varun Mitra has walked ramp for the first time at Wills India Men’s Fashion Week, where he presented the designs of Gaurav Gupta.

Varun Mitra at Wills India Men’s Fashion Week

Actor

Film

Varun Mitra made his acting debut with the Hindi film ‘Kaash’ (2015) in which he played the role of Adil. The film was premiered at the 2014 Tokyo film festival. He played the role of Dev Mathur in the film ‘Jalebi’ (2016), starring Rhea Chakraborty.

Varun Mitra in a still from the film ‘Jalebi’

In 2023, he was featured opposite Kangana Ranaut in the film ‘Tejas.’ He essayed the role of Ekveer in the film.

Web Series

In 2019, he played the role of Badol in the web series ‘Bombers,’ which premiered on the OTT platform ZEE5. He received immense appreciation for his performance as Deepak Rana in the web series ‘Guilty Minds’ (2022), which was streamed on Amazon Prime Video.

Varun Mitra in a still from the web series ‘Guilty Minds’

He appeared alongside Dimple Kapadia in the web series ‘Saas, Bahu Aur Flamingo’ (2023) in which he played the role of Kapil. The web series was streamed on Disney+ Hotstar. He played the role of Lt. Triveni Singh in Season 1 of the web series ‘Rakshak: India’s Braves’ (2023), which premiered on  Amazon miniTV.

Varun Mitra as Lt. Triveni Singh in a still from the web series ‘Rakshak: India’s Braves’

Favourites

• Place to hangout: The Qutab Institutional Area

• Street food: Keema Parantha

• Monument: Qutab Minar

Facts/Trivia

• He has learned Vipassana meditation.

• He quit his export house job to pursue a career in acting.

• In 2012, he went on a two week trip to Mumbai, and gave a few auditions there. Later, he was signed by a talent management agency named ‘Kwan.’

• In 2014, he travelled to Sri Lanka to shoot a TV commercial for Amazon Kindle Paperwhite for which he had to work with native children. During the shooting, the children formed a close relationship with him despite having the language barrier. They developed such a strong attachment to him that they created handcrafted greeting cards to give him on his birthday, which coincidentally fell on the last day of the shoot.
  

  Varun Mitra with Sri Lankan kids on his birthday

• His hobbies include travelling and swimming.

• He is dog lover.
  

  Varun Mitra playing with dogs

Poonam

Srishti Shrivastava is an Indian actress who predominantly works in Hindi films and web series. She is mainly known for playing the role of Anandi Joshi aka Jo in the web series ‘Girls Hostel’ (2018-2022), which premiered on SonyLIV.

Wiki/Biography

Srishti Shrivastava was born on Tuesday, 21 September 1993 (age 30 yeaars; as of 2023) in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Her zodiac sign is Virgo.

A childhood image of Srishti Shrivastava

She did her schooling at Gundecha Education Academy, and Lilavatibai Podar High School in Mumbai. ^[1]Facebook – Srishti Shrivastava She pursed Bachelor’s of Mass Media at Sophia College For Women. ^[2]LinkedIn – Srishti Shrivastava She later attended The Drama School in Mumbai.

Physical Appearance

Height (approx.): 5′ 3″

Hair Colour: Black

Eye Colour: Brown

Family

Parents & Siblings

Her mother’s name is Vinita Shrivastava.

Srishti Shrivastava’s parents

She has a brother named Vardaan Shrivastava, and a sister named Siddhi Shrivastava.

Srishti Shrivastava with her brother

Srishti Shrivastava with her sister

Husband

She is unmarried.

Career

Theatre

Srishti Shrivastava started her acting career as a theatre artist. Her performance in the theatre play ‘Shikhandi: The Story of the In-Betweens’ received huge praise from the audience. She has acted in several theatre plays such as ‘Chuhal,’ ‘Final Solutions,’ and ‘Adrak.’

Srishti Shrivastava in a still from the theatre play ‘Chuhal’

Film

Srishti Shrivastava made her Bollywood debut with the film ‘OK Jaanu’ (2017) in which she played the supporting role of Aisha. In 2019, she essayed the role of Albina Dadarkar in the film ‘Gully Boy.’ She received immense appreciation for her performace as Guddo in the Ayushmann Khurrana starrer film ‘Gulabo Sitabo’ (2020).

Srishti Shrivastava in a still from the film ‘Gulabo Sitabo’

She appeared alongside Madhuri Dixit in the 2022 film ‘Maja Ma’ in which she played the role of Tara Patel.

Short Film 

She appeared as Sudha Singh in the short film ‘Dhavak’ (2022), which premiered on Amazon miniTV.

Web Series

In 2016, Srishti Shrivastava appeared in an episode of the TVF series ‘Humorously Yours Season 1’ in which essayed the role of Dolly. She played the role of Anandi Joshi aka Jo in all three seasons of the web series ‘Girls Hostel’ (2018-2022), which premiered on the OTT platform SonyLIV.

Poster of the web series ‘Girls Hostel’

In 2023, she played the role of Anu in the web series ‘Arranged Couple,’ which streamed on the YouTube channel Girliyapa. She has acted in several web series such as ‘Girlsplaining’ (2016), ‘PA-Gals’ (2017-2018),‘Mr. & Mrs.’ (2020), and ‘Uncommon Sense with Saloni’ (2020).

Award

She won the Best actor in a supporting role and the Best Ensemble award at META Awards 2018 for her performance in the play ‘Shikhandi – The Story of the In-betweens.’

Facts/Trivia

• In 2022, she was featured on the list of ’30 Under 30′ by HT City.

• She had a passion for acting since childhood.

• Her hobbies include reading books and dancing.

• She follows a strict workout regimen to maintain her fitness.
  

  Srishti Shrivastava while working out in a gym

• She is a cat lover and also has a pet cat.
  

  Srishti Shrivastava playing with a cat

Poonam

Afsana Ara Bindu is a Bangladeshi actress. She predominantly works in the Bangladeshi films and television series.

Wiki/Biography

Afsana Ara Bindu was born on Thursday, 14 January 1988 (age 36 years; as of 2024) in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Her zodiac sign is Aries. She studied at Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka.

Physical Appearance

Height (approx.): 5′ 6″

Weight (approx.): 55 kg

Hair Colour: Dark Brown

Eye Colour: Black

Figure Measurements (approx.): 34-28-38

Family

Parents & Siblings

There is not much information about her parents and siblings.

Husband

She got married to Asif Salahuddin Malik, an entrepreneur on 24 October 2014.

A wedding image of Afsana Ara Bindu

Career

Model

In 2006, Afsana Ara Bindu appeared as a contestant in the reality TV show ‘Lux Channel I Superstar,’ which aired on Channel i. She emerged as first runner-up of the show.

Afsana Ara Bindu (left) in Lux Channel I Superstar 2006

Actor

Film

Afsana Ara Bindu made her acting debut with the 2007 Bangladeshi film ‘Daruchini Dwip’ in which she played the role of Anushka. In 2010, she essayed the role of Maya in the film ‘Jaago – Dare To Dream.’

Poster of the film ‘Jaago – Dare To Dream’

She appeared opposite Arifin Shuvoo in the film ‘Unish 20’ (2023) in which she played the role of Sheela.

Afsana Ara Bindu (right) in a still from the film ‘Unish 20’

The film was streamed on the OTT platform Chorki. She has acted in a few more films such as ‘Piriter Agun Jole Digun’ (2011) and ‘Eito Prem’ (2015).

Television

Apart from films, she has also acted in various television series including ‘Mugdho Nilimar Prantay,’ ‘Onakankhito,’ ‘Thogini,’ ‘Kudduser Murgi Prem,’ and ‘System Chor.’

Afsana Ara Bindu in a still from the television series ‘Thogini’

Facts/Trivia

• She had a passion for acting since she was a child.

• She decided to take retirement from the entertainment industry after her marriage. ^[1]The Daily Star However, she later rejoined the entertainment industry.

Poonam

Alok Rajwade is an Indian actor, director, and singer. He is mainly known for his work in Marathi films and experimental plays.

Wiki/Biography

Alok Rajwade was born on Tuesday, 7 February 1989 (age 35 years; as of 2024) in Pune, Maharashtra. His zodiac sign is Aquarius. He did his schooling at Aksharnandan School, Gokhalenagar, Pune. He pursued B.Com at Brihan Maharashtra College of Commerce (BMCC), Pune. ^[1]Facebook – Alok Rajwade

Physical Appearance

Height (approx.): 5′ 8″

Hair Colour: Black

Eye Colour: Light Brown

Family

Parents & Siblings

His mother’s name is Sunita Rajwade.

Alok Rajwade with his mother

Wife

He got married to the film and theatre actress Parna Pethe on 29 February 2016.  They had a court marriage at Mangal Karyalay, Pune.

Alok Rajwade with his wife

Relationships/Affairs

Alok Rajwade dated Parna Pethe for almost six years before getting married.

Career

Director

Theatre

Marathi

In 2010, he directed the Marathi play ‘Institute of Pavtalogy.’ He worked as a director for the Marathi play ‘Geli Ekvis Varsha’ (The Past 21 Years), which won the Best Play award at Mumbai’s Thespo theatre festival in 2016.

Poster of the theatre play ‘Geli Ekvis Varsha’

He has directed various Marathi plays including ‘Tichee Satra Prakarna’ (2010), ‘Natak Nako’ (2012), ‘Mi Ghalib’ (2013), ‘Binkamache Sanwad’ (2014), ‘Sindhu Sudhakar Rum Aani Ittar’ (2016), and ‘Prasthan urph exit’ (2022).

Hindi

Apart from Marathi plays, he has also directed a Hindi play titled ‘A Doubtful Gaze at Uber at Midnight,’ which was performed at Serendipity Arts Festival in Goa in 2018.

Poster of the theatre play ‘A Doubtful Gaze at Uber at Midnight’

Film

Alok Rajwade made his debut as a film director with the 2018 Marathi film ‘Ashleel Udyog Mitramandal.’

Actor

Theatre

Hindi

In 2007, he acted in the Hindi play ‘Jhoom Barabar Jhoom.’ His performance in the Hindi play ‘Bed ke Neeche Rehne Wali’ (The Girl Who Lives Under The Bed) in 2009, received immense appreciation from the audience.

Alok Rajwade (right) in a still from the theatre play ‘Bed ke Neeche Rehne Wali’

Marathi

In 2009, he performed in the Marathi play ‘Dalan.’ He acted alongside Jyoti Subhash and Parna Pethe in the play ‘Aashadatil Ek Divas’ in 2013.

Alok Rajwade and Parna Pethe in a still from the theatre play ‘Aashadatil Ek Divas’

He has also acted in theatre play ‘Abhraham Lincolnche Patra,’ a Marathi Adaptation of Abraham Lincoln’s Letter.

Film

Marathi

In 2009, he played the supporting role of Vijay Satbande in the film ‘Bokya Satbande.’ He appeared alongside Radhika Apte in the film ‘Ha Bharat Maza’ in 2012. He received immense appreciation for his performance as Anay in the film ‘Rajwade and Sons’ (2015).

Alok Rajwade in a still from the film ‘Rajwade and Sons’

In 2016, he essayed the role of Siddharth in the film ‘Family Katta.’ Some of his other films include ‘Vihir’ (2009), ‘Chintoo’ (2012), ‘Rama Madhav’ (2014), ‘Kaasav’ (2017), ‘Me Vasantrao’ (2022), and ‘Teen Adkun Sitaram’ (2023).

Hindi

Alok Rajwade made his Bollywood debut with the film ‘Dekh Tamasha Dekh’ (2014) in which he played the role of Prashant.

Others

In 2008, he played the lead role of Ashu in the Bhojpuri short film ‘Udedh Bun.’ He played the lead role of in the bilingual film ‘Dear Molly’ in 2022. The film was made in Hindi and Marathi languages.

Alok Rajwade in a still from the film ‘Dear Molly’

YouTube Series

He has also acted in the YouTube video series ‘Aai & Me,’ which was uploaded on the Marathi YouTube channel Bharatiya Digital Party. In 2019, he, along with Mrinmayee Godbole, anchored the Marathi video series ‘Safe Journeys,’ which was uploaded on the YouTube channel Prayas Health Group. The series was based on the issue related to sex and sexuality faced by adolescents and youth. Alok Rajwade also worked as director for two episodes of the series.

Alok Rajwade (right) in a still from the web series ‘Safe Journeys’

Web Series

In 2021, he appeared in season 1 of the Marathi web series ‘Shantit Kranti’ in which he essayed the role of Dinar. He also appeared in season 2 of the web series in 2023. The web series was streamed on the OTT platform SonyLIV.

Alok Rajwade in a still from the web series ‘Shantit Kranti Season 1’

He has acted in a few more Marathi web series such as ‘Hing Pustak Talwaar’ (2021) on Planet Marathi, and ‘9 to 5’ (2022) on the YouTube channel Bharatiya Digital Party.

Singer

In 2020, he lent his voice to the song “Savita Bhabhi” for the Marathi film ‘Ashleel Udyog Mitramandal.’ In the same year, he sang the title track of the Marathi play “Jamba Bamba Boo.” He, along with Sujay Jibberish, sang the Marathi song for the music video “Majhyashi Nit Bolaycha” in 2022. 

Alok Rajwade (left) in a still from the music video ‘Majhyashi Nit Bolaycha’

Award

In 2019, he was awarded the Balasaheb Sarpotdar Award by Brihan Maharashtra College of Commerce.

Facts/Trivia

• He had a passion for acting since childhood. He started performing in theatre plays while studying in school.

• He was associated with the theatre groups Aasakta Kalamanch and Samanvay, during his college days.

• In 2008, he founded a theatre group named ‘Natak Company.’

• In 2017, he was featured in the list of ’30 Under 30′ by Forbes India.

• He pursued painting and photography as a hobby. He often shares photographs clicked by him and his paintings on his Instagram handle.
  

  A painting by Alok Rajwade

Poonam

Pankaj Udhas (1951-2024) was an Indian ghazal and playback singer. He is mainly known for his work in the Hindi film industry and Indian pop. He died on 26 February 2024 after suffering from prolong illness.

Wiki/Biography

Pankaj Udhas was born on Thursday, 17 May 1951 (age 72 years; at the time of death) in Jetpur, Gujarat. His zodiac sign is Taurus. He studied at Sir Bhavsinhji Polytechnic Institute, Bhavnagar, Gujarat. Later, his parents relocated to Mumbai where he pursued Bachelor of Science degree at St Xavier’s college, Mumbai. He had also attended Wilson College, Mumbai.

Physical Appearance

Height (approx.): 5′ 8″

Hair Colour: Black

Eye Colour: Black

Family

He originally hails from a family of zamindars from a town named Charkhadi, Rajkot, Gujarat.

Parents & Siblings

His father, Keshubhai Udhas, was a government servant. His mother’s name is Jituben Udhas.

Pankaj Udhas’ father

He had two elder brothers named Manhar Udhas, and Nirmal Udhas. Both of his brothers are renowned singers.

Pankaj Udhas (right) with his brother Nirmal Udhas

Wife & Children

He got married to Farida Udhas on 11 February 1982. Together, they have two daughters. His daughter, Nayaab Udhas, is an event organiser, and Reva Udhas is an entrepreneur.

Pankaj Udhas with his family

Other Relatives

His grandfather was the revenue minister (also called Diwan) the Bhavnagar State, now in Gujarat. He was the first graduate from his village at that time.

Relationships/Affairs

Pankaj Udhas first met Farida Udhas at his neighbor’s home in 1979. At that time, Pankaj was pursuing his bachelor’s degree, and Farida was serving as an air hostess. Pankaj fell in love with Farida at the first sight and they soon started dating. Reportedly, Farida’s parents were initially unhappy with their relationship due to the communal differences between the two families. However, Pankaj later decided to meet Farida’s father and successfully convinced him to allow them to marry.

Religion

He followed Hinduism. He used to recite Hanuman Chalisa before his concerts. ^[1]Hindustan Times

Career

Film

He made his debut as a playback singer for the 1970 film ‘Kamna.’ In the 1970s, he didn’t get many opportunities due to the high competition and domination of the singers like Mohammad Rafi, Kishore Kumar, and Mukesh in the film industry. Later, he started singing ghazals and became popular. After establishing himself as a successful ghazal singer, he was offered to sing the song “Chitthi aayi hai” for the film ‘Naam’ (1986), directed by Mahesh Bhatt. The song was well received by the audience and made Pankaj Udhas a household name.

Poster of the film ‘Naam’

He, alongside Lata Mangeshkar, sang the song “Maahiya Teri Kasam” for the 1990 film ‘Ghayal.’ In 1994, he sang the song “Na Kajre Ki Dhar” for the film ‘Mohra.’ The song was well received by the audience and became one of his most notable songs.

Poster of the film ‘Mohra’

In his career span, he had lent his voice in the songs for numerous films. Some of his most notable songs include “Chandi Jaisa Rang Hai” for the film ‘Ek Hi Maqsad’ (1988), “Aaj Phir Tumpe” for the film ‘Dayavan’ (1988), “Jeeye To Jeeye Kaise’ for the film ‘Saajan’ (1991), “Zindagi Ko Guzarne Ke Liye” for the film ‘Jeevan Yudh’ (1997), “Teri Aashiqui” for the film ‘Ghaath’ (2000), and “Main Dil Ki Dil Mein” for the film ‘Sanam Teri Kasam’ (2009).

Album

Hindi

In 1980, Pankaj Udhas released his first ghazal album titled ‘Aahat.’ In December 1987, his album “Shagufta” was released by Music India, making it the first album to be launched on compact disc in India.

Cover of the album ‘Shagufta’

His album, ‘Nabeel,’ became one of the top-selling albums in 1989. The very first copy of the album was auctioned for Rs. 1 Lakh. The proceeds from the auction were donated to the Cancer Patients Aid Association. In 2018, he collaborated with the renowned poet and lyricist Gulzar for the album ‘Nayaab Lamhe with Gulzar.’

Pankaj Udhas (right) with Gulzar at the launch of their album ‘Nayaab Lamhe with Gulzar’

Some of his other most notable ghazal albums include ‘Mukarrar’ (1981), ‘Tarrannum’ (1982), ‘Pankaj Udhas Live at Albert Hall’ (1984), ‘Aafreen’ (1986), ‘In Search of Meer’ (2003), ‘Hasrat’ (2005), ‘Sentimental’ (2013), and ‘Khwabon Ki Khahani’ (2015).

Other Languages

Apart from Hindi, he had also sang songs and ghazals in several Indian regional languages. Some of his albums in regional languages are titled ‘Bhalobasha’ (Bengali), ‘Rajuat’ (Gujarati), and ‘Baisakhi’ (Punjabi).

Devotional Songs and Albums

Pankaj Udhas provided his vocals for ‘Shabad’ (sacred songs in Sikhism’s scripture ​Guru Granth Sahib) in 2010. A year later, he sang some songs along with Sanghamitra Bharali for the devotional album ‘Mata Ki Bhetein.’ In 2018, he released a devotional album ‘Jai Ganesh’ for the Siddhivinayak Temple. In the same year, he launched the album ‘Krishna Chants.’

Cover of the devotional album ‘Krishna Chants’

Television 

In 1998, he started a ghazal singing reality TV show ‘Aadab Aarz Hai,’ which aired on the channel Sony Entertainment Television.

Awards, Honours, Achievements

• K L Saigal Award for being the Best Ghazal Singer of the Year in 1985

• Outstanding Young Persons’ Award in 1990 from the Indian Junior Chambers for his positive leadership and his services to the nation

• Giants International Award in 1993 for his efforts to achieve the highest standards in the field of music

• Radio Lotus Award in 1994, presented by Radio Lotus, South Africa at the University of Durban

• Honorary Citizenship of Lubbock Texas, USA in 1994

• Indira Gandhi Priyadarshani Award for his outstanding services, achievement, and contribution to music in 1996

• Outstanding Artistic Achievement Award, presented by the American Academy of Artists at Atlantic City in 1998

• Indian Arts Awards Gala presented by the then Mayor Jersey City in 1998

• Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, USA Award in 1999 for extraordinary services to Indian music, especially promotion of ghazals in India and abroad

• Vocational Recognition Award in 2001 from Rotary Club of Mumbai Downtown for his outstanding performance as a Ghazal singer

• Honoured by the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce in 2002

• Award for Excellence in Music Field presented by Sahyog Foundation at Mumbai in 2002

• Dadabhai Naoroji Millennium Award in 2003 conferred by the Dadabhai Naoroji International Society for his contribution to ghazal and the music industry

• Special Achievement Award at the Bollywood Music Award, New York in 2003

• MTV Immies Award in 2003 for his album ‘In Search of Meer’

• Special Felicitation at the Wembley Conference Center, London in 2004 for completing 20 Years of Performance at the Prestigious Venue

• “Kalakar” Award in 2006 at Kolkata for his album “Hasrat” as “Best Ghazal album of 2005”

• Padmashree Award in 2006 for his contribution to the art of ghazal singing and his huge contribution to cancer patients and thalasemic children on the occasion of his completing 25 years of ghazal singing

• Padma Bhushan (Posthumous) in 2025
  

  Pankaj Udhas’ wife accepting the Padma Bhushan on his behalf

Car Collection

• Fiat 1100
  

  Pankaj Udhas with his Fiat 1100 car

• Mercedes Maybach S-Class

  

  Pankaj Udhas with his Mercedes Maybach S-Class car

• Range Rover SV
  

  Pankaj Udhas with his Range Rover SV car

• Audi A4 Car
  

  Pankaj Udhas with his Audi A4 Car

Death

Pankaj Udhas passed away at Breach Candy Hospital, Mumbai on 26 February 2024, around 11:00 a.m. According to some resources, he had been suffering from a prolong illness. ^[2]India Today His final rites were performed at Hindu Crematorium Worli, Mumbai on 27 February 2024 from 3 to 5 p.m. His death was mourned by many Bollywood celebs and other eminent persons from various fields, including Sunny Deol, John Abraham, and Narendra Modi.

We mourn the loss of Pankaj Udhas Ji, whose singing conveyed a range of emotions and whose Ghazals spoke directly to the soul. He was a beacon of Indian music, whose melodies transcended generations. I recall my various interactions with him over the years.

His departure leaves… pic.twitter.com/5xL6Y3Sv75

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 26, 2024

Facts/Trivia

• Pankaj Udhas developed an interest in music after observing his father, who used to play the dilruba as a hobby, and his elder brothers, who were pursuing a career in music.

• Initally, he received a formal training to learn the tabla at the Sangeet Academy in Rajkot. He learned Hindustani vocal classical music from Ghulam Qadir Khan Sahab, when he was 13 years old. Later, he learned music from Navrang Nagpurkar, a singer from the Gwalior Gharana.

• He gave his first stage performance at the age of 11, during the Sino-Indian War, where he sang the song “Aye Mere Watan Ke Logo.” He received a reward of Rs 51 by an audience for his performance.

• In an interview, he revealed that he had learn the Urdu language from a maulvi to  better understand the poetic verses of the Ghazals.

• When he didn’t get many opportunities to work as a playback singer in the Hindi film industry, he went to Canada and the US, where he hosted many ghazal concerts.

• He drew inspiration from Begum Akhtar and Mehdi Hasan to sing ghazals.

• He used to make huge donations to help needy people. He had hosted numerous concerts to raise funds for social causes. He was associated with several charity associations such as Cancer Patients Aid Association, Parents Thalassemia Unit, Spastic Society of India, and MIND.

• He enjoyed watching horse racing and also had a female horse (filly) named Alliana.

• In 2010, he started his YouTube channel named ‘Pankaj Udhas,’ where he had uploaded his songs and ghazals. In 2019, he received the Silver Creator Award for surpassing 1,00,000 subscribers on his channel. As of 2024, he had more than 664 K subscribers on his channel.
  

  Pankaj Udhas with his Silver Creator Award

Poonam

Farida Udhas is the wife of the late popular ghazal and playback singer Pankaj Udhas.

Wiki/Biography

Farida Udhas was born on 22 May. Her zodiac sign is Gemini.

Physical Appearance

Height (approx.): 5′ 5″

Hair Colour: Dark Ash Blonde

Eye Colour: Black

Family

She belongs to Parsi community.

Parents & Siblings

Her father was a retired police officer.

Husband & Children

She got married to the late popular singer Pankaj Udhas on 11 February 1982. He died on 26 February 2024 after suffering from a prolong illness. Together, they have two daughters. His daughter, Nayaab Udhas, is an event organiser, and Reva Udhas is an entrepreneur.

A family photograph of Farida Udhas

Relationships/Affairs

Pankaj Udhas first met Farida Udhas at his neighbor’s home in 1979. At that time, Pankaj was pursuing his bachelor’s degree, and Farida was serving as an air hostess. Pankaj fell in love with Farida at the first sight and they soon started dating. Reportedly, Farida’s parents were initially unhappy with their relationship due to the communal differences between the two families. However, Pankaj later decided to meet Farida’s father and successfully convinced him to allow them to marry.

A wedding photograph of Farida Udhas

Farida Udhas once borrowed money to help Pankaj Udhas in launching his first album. In an interview, Pankaj Udhas talked about it and said,

While I was launching my first album, I ran short of a few thousand rupees. Farida didn’t have money either. We weren’t married then. But the next day she handed over the sum to me. She had borrowed it.”

Career

Farida Udhas once served as an air hostess for Air India.

Poonam

Sohaila Kapur is an Indian actress, journalist, theatre director, and playwright. She predominantly works in the Hindi film and television industries. She has been a presenter for Lok Sabha TV.

Wiki/Biography

Sohaila Kapur was born in New Delhi. She did her schooling at Modern High School (now Modern School), New Delhi. She pursued BA in Political Science at Lady Shri Ram College, Delhi University. She also pursued a master’s degree at the same university. Later, she did a diploma course in journalism from Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Delhi.

Physical Appearance

Height (approx.): 5′ 5″

Hair Colour: Salt & Pepper

Eye Colour: Black

Family

She belongs to a Punjabi Hindu family.

Parents & Siblings

Her father, Kulbhushan Kapur, was a doctor. He served as the personal physician to Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed, the former President of India. Her mother, Sheel Kanta Kapur, was a journalist. Her elder brother, Shekhar Kapur, is a filmmaker. She has two elder sisters named Aruna Kapur and Neelu Kapur.

Sohaila Kapur (centre) with her siblings

Husband & Children

Sohaila’s first marriage to Anirudh Limaye was ended in divorce. She later married Anil Charnalia, a Chartered Accountant based in Ontario. Anil Charnalia, suffered a severe heart attack and passed away during a flight on 23 October 1999. He was in the washroom when he suffered the attack. After the incident, a big lawsuit was filed against the airlines, claiming negligence. She has a step-daughter and a step-son named Jayant Charnalia from her second husband.

Other Relatives

She is the niece of the popular actors and filmmakers Dev Anand, Chetan Anand, and Vijay Anand. Her mother, Sheel Kanta Kapur, was the sister of Chetan, Dev, and Vijay Anand. Popular actor, Parikshit Sahni, is her brother-in-law. He is married to her elder sister Aruna Kapur.

Dev Anand with his sister Sheel Kanta Kapur

Career

Playwright

Sohaila wrote the play ‘Yeh Hai Mumbai Meri Jaan’ in 2002. It was a musical play which was performed at the Traverse Theatre in Edinburgh, Scotland. She has written play ‘The Great Indian Wedding’ for her brother Shekhar Kapur, who is a filmmaker. Some of the plays written by Sohaila Kapur include ‘A Club of Her Own,’ ‘A Christmas Parable,’ ‘The Monkey Man,’ ‘Mahim Junction,’ and ‘Kuch Life Jaisa.’

Theatre Director

She gained recognition for directing the play ‘Rumi: Unveil the Sun,’ which received immense appreciation from critics as well as audience. The play received nominations for the ‘Best Plays Produced in the Country’ and ‘Best Play Director’ at the Mahindra Excellence in Theatre Awards in 2008 at New Delhi.

Poster of the play ‘Rumi: Unveil the Sun’

In 2018, she directed the play ‘Albeli Naar’ which is a Hindi adaptation of William Shakespeare’s play ‘The Taming of the Shrew.’ The play was performed by Three Arts Club at its Theatre Festival 2018 at Shri Ram Centre, New Delhi.

Actor

Film

Hindi

Sohaila Kapur made her Bollywood debut as an actor in 1991 with the film ‘Rukmavati Ki Haveli’ in which she played the role of Damayanti.

Sohaila Kapur (left) in a still from the film ‘Rukmavati Ki Haveli’

In 2015, she essayed the role of Ameena Bai in the Saif Ali Khan starrer film ‘Phantom.’ Her performance as Sushila Devi in the film ‘Daas Dev’ (2018) received immense appreciation from the audience.

Poster of the film ‘Daas Dev’

She appeared as House Owner in the short film ‘Circus’ in 2018. In 2021, she played the role of Mrs. Chaudhary in the film ‘Silence… Can You Hear It?’ which premiered on the OTT platform ZEE5. She has acted in various films including ‘Dev Bhoomi’ (2016), ‘Satellite Shankar’ (2019), ‘Dolly Kitty Aur Woh Chamakte Sitare’ (2020), ‘Bawri Chhori’ (2021), and ‘Tadap’ (2021).

English

She played the role of Aunty Kamla in the Canadian film ‘Cooking with Stella,’ which was released at the Toronto International Film Festival on 16 September 2009.

Sohaila Kapur in a still from the film ‘Cooking with Stella’

Television

Sohaila Kapur made her television debut in 1989 with the historical drama TV series ‘Bharat Ek Khoj,’ which was broadcast on the channel DD National. She played various role in the TV series.

Sohaila Kapur in a still from the TV series ‘Bharat Ek Khoj’

Theatre

In 2023, she acted in the teleplay ‘Where did I leave my Purdah?’ written by Mahesh Dattani, which was based on the life of the veteran theatre actress and founder of Modern Theatre Nazia. The play was presented by Zee Theatre.

Poster of the teleplay ‘Where did I leave my Purdah?’

Web Series

In 2019, she appeared as School Principal in the web series ‘The Family Man,’ starring Manoj Bajpayee. The web series was streamed on the OTT platform Amazon Prime Video.

Sohaila Kapur in a still from the web series ‘The Family Man’

She played the role of Rajeshwari Singh Rathore in all three seasons of the web series ‘Aarya’ (2020-2024), which premiered on Disney+ Hotstar. She has also appeared in the web series ‘Special OPS’ (2020) and ‘Bhaukaal’ (2020).

Journalist & Anchor

Sohaila Kapur worked as a journalist for ‘The Times of India’ for almost a decade. Later, she worked as a freelance writer and has wrote over hundred articles for several magazines and newspapers. She has worked as an anchor and journalist for Lok Sabha TV.

Sohaila Kapur as anchor on Lok Sabha TV

She has also worked as an anchor for National Geographic Channel (NGC) documentary titled ‘Indian Witch Hunt.’ She has been a script writer, anchor, and coordinator for several shows for Doordarshan in India and Canadian channel CFMT (now Omni) in Toronto.

Author

In 1983, she wrote a book about Indian esoteric rituals titled “Witchcraft in Western India.”

Cover of the book ‘Witchcraft in Western India’

Awards

In 2022, she was presented with Achala Samman by Kailash Kher.

Note: She has several awards and accolades to her name.

Facts/Trivia

• In an interview, she revealed that she had a crush on her maternal uncle Dev Anand when she was a teenager.

• She wanted to become an actress since she was a child. She started performing in stage plays while studying in high school.

• She is one of the founding members of ‘Ruchika Theatre Group’ which was started in 1972. Later, the theatre group was headed by Feisal Alkazi.

• She has taught journalism at Times Media School, New Delhi.

• In 2019, she walked the ramp for Prashant Verma at the Lotus Make Up India Fashion Week, held at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi.
  

  Sohaila Kapur at the Lotus Make Up India Fashion Week 2019

• Sohaila was part of the Expert Committee for the first Ibsen Theatre Festival in Delhi and was part of the Expert Committee for Production Grants under the sponsorship of the Ministry of Culture for two years.

• She has been a judge for National Television Awards for 3 years.

• She follows a non-vegetarian diet.
  

  Sohaila Kapur while eating non-veg

Poonam

Vishwajeet Pradhan is  an Indian actor. He is known his work in the Hindi films and television series.

Wiki/Biography

Vishwajeet Pradhan was born on Saturday, 11 September 1965 (age 58 years; as of 2023) in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. His zodiac sign is Virgo.

A childhood photograph of Vishwajeet Pradhan

He did his schooling at St. Mary’s Academy, Meerut. ^[1]Facebook – Vishwajeet Pradhan He received a degree in law from Allahabad University.

Physical Appearance

Height (approx.): 6′ 0″

Hair Colour: Black

Eye Colour: Black

Family

Parents & Siblings

There is not much information about his parents and siblings.

Wife & Children

He got married to Sonalika Pradhan in 2000. She is a fashion designer and an event director. Together, they have two children a daughter, Dhruvika Pradhan and a son, Ojasvi Pradhan.

Vishwajeet Pradhan with his wife and son

Vishwajeet Pradhan with his daughter

Career

Theatre

Vishwajeet Pradhan started participating in theatre plays during his college days. He performed alongside Naseeruddin Shah in the theatre play ‘Julius Caesar’ in 1991. He received huge appreciation for his performance in the theatre play ‘Kothri No.42.’

Vishwajeet Pradhan (right) in a still from the theatre play ‘Kothri No.42’

Television

Vishwajeet Pradhan made his television debut in 1988 with the television series ‘Fauji,’ which aired on DD National. He played the role of N/Sub. Yaseen Khan in the television series.

Poster of the TV series ‘Fauji’

In 1989, he essayed the role of Joseph in the television series ‘Indradhanush,’ aired on DD National. After appearing in the 1989 TV series ‘Indradhanush,’ he took a break from the television industry for almost two decades. However, he made his television comeback in 2010 with the TV series ‘Maryada: Lekin Kab Tak?’ on StarPlus. He played the role of S.S.P Brahmanand Jakhar in the StarPlus TV series.

Vishwajeet Pradhan in a still from the TV series ‘Maryada: Lekin Kab Tak?’

His performance as Kalavati/Thakur Rudra Pratap in the TV series ‘Ek Boond Ishq’ (2013) received immense appreciation from the audience. The TV series was broadcast on the channel Life OK.

Vishwajeet Pradhan as Kalavati in a still from the TV series ‘Ek Boond Ishq’

He essayed the role of Mahamatya Kaikala in the historical comedy drama television series ‘Tenali Rama’ (2017), which was broadcast on Sony SAB. In 2023, he appeared as Maharaj Daksha in the television series ‘Shiv Shakti – Tap Tyaag Tandav,’ which aired on Colors TV.

Vishwajeet Pradhan as Maharaj Daksha in a still from the TV series ‘Shiv Shakti – Tap Tyaag Tandav’

Film 

Hindi

Vishwajeet Pradhan made his Bollywood debut with the film ‘Prahaar’ (1991) in which he played the role of Commando. In 1998, he played the supporting role of Tony in Shah Rukh Khan starrer film ‘Duplicate.’

Poster of the film ‘Duplicate’

He appeared as Head Police inspector in the 2000 film ‘Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani.’ In 2006, he essayed the role of Dilawar Khan in the film ‘Umrao Jaan.’ He received huge praise for his performance as Pakistani Captain in the 2014 film ‘Kya Dilli Kya Lahore.’

Vishwajeet Pradhan in a still from the film ‘Kya Dilli Kya Lahore’

He has acted in several films including ‘Karz: The Burden of Truth’ (2002), ‘Andaaz’ (2003), ‘Zeher’ (2005), ‘No Problem’ (2010), ‘Bbuddah… Hoga Terra Baap’ (2011), ‘Class of 83’ (2020), and ‘Radhe’ (2021).

English

In 1989, he acted in the telefilm ‘In Which Annie Gives it Those Ones,’ written by Arundhati Roy and Arjun Raina. In 2014, Pradhan worked as an actor in the American film ‘Positive,’ directed by Shams Charania. He played the role of a fashion photographer in the film.

Web Series

The actor played the role of Sampat in all three seasons of the crime-thriller web series ‘Aarya’ (2020-2024), starring Sushmita Sen. The web series was premiered on the OTT platform Disney+ Hotstar.

Poster of the web series ‘Aarya’

Awards

Won

• Best Actor of the Decade – Film and TV at Top 25 India Fame Awards in 2021

• Most Versatile Actor Award in 2021
  

  Vishwajeet Pradhan after receiving the Most Versatile Actor Award

Facts/Trivia

• He wanted to become an actor since childhood.

• In an interview, he revealed that after completing his schooling in Meerut his parents sent him to Prayagraj to prepare for the IAS exam, but there he got engaged in theatre and eventually got the opportunity to work in the television series ‘Fauji.’ ^[2]Twitter – Vishwajeet Pradhan

• During the shooting of the film ‘No Problem’ (2010), the actor was caught by fire while filming an action scene in the middle of the sea. Initially, the crew members thought it was a part of the scene but later realised that it was an accident. The actor suffered several burns on his leg due to the fire.

• Pradhan met another accident in 2010, while filming the climax scene of the film ‘Rakta Charitra,’ where he was meant to be shot dead. The explosion during the shoot was so strong that he got a big cut on his jaw that required surgery to fix it. ^[3]The Times of India

• In November 2023, the actor was featured in the cover story of WKND Magazine.
  

  Vishwajeet Pradhan on the cover of WKND Magazine

• His favourite American TV series are ‘Big Bang Theory’ (2007) and ‘Game of Thrones’ (2011).

Poonam

Bharat Ghare is an Indian choreographer. He is known for his work in the Hindi and Marathi dance reality television shows.

Wiki/Biography

Bharat Ghare was born on 30 July in Pune, Maharashtra. His zodiac sign is Leo. He did his schooling at Dr. Vasantdada Patil Madhyamic Vidya Niketan, Pune. He received his bachelor’s degree from G H Raisoni College of Engineering and Management, Pune. ^[1]Facebook – Bharat Ghare

Physical Appearance

Height (approx.): 5′ 10″

Hair Colour: Black

Eye Colour: Black

Family

Parents & Siblings

There is not much information about his parents and siblings.

Bharat Ghare with his mother

Wife

He is unmarried.

Religion

He follows Hinduism.

Bharat Ghare worshipping at his home

Career

Television

Bharat Ghare was paired with the contestant Prerna Vijay Salvi in the Marathi dance reality TV show ‘Super Dancer Maharashtra’ (2018), which aired on Sony Marathi. The duo also participated in the Hindi dance reality TV show ‘Super Dancer Chapter 3’ (2019) which aired on Sony Entertainment Television.

Bharat Ghare with Prerna Vijay Salvi in a still from the TV show ‘Super Dancer Chapter 3’

In 2020, he served as a choreographer for Deepak Hulsure in the Marathi dance reality TV show ‘Maharashtra’s Best Dancer.’ The TV show was aired on the channel Sony Marathi. He was the choreographer of Uday Singh in the Hindi dance reality TV show ‘Dance Deewane (season 3)’ (2021), which was broadcast on Colors TV.

Bharat Ghare (right) with Uday Singh during a performance in ‘Dance Deewane Season 3’

Bharat served as a Super Guru for Sadhna Mishra in season 3 of the Hindi dance reality TV show ‘DID Super Moms’ (2022), which aired on Zee TV. The duo became the first runner up of the show.

Bharat Ghare with Sadhna Mishra after receiving the runner up trophy in ‘DID Super Moms Season 3’

In 2023, he appeared as a contestant in season 11 of the Hindi dance reality TV show ‘Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa,’ which was broadcast on the channel Sony Entertainment Television. He was paired with the wrestler Sangeeta Phogat in the TV show.

Bharat Ghare (right) with Sangeeta Phogat in Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa Season 11′

Facts/Trivia

• His family and friends fondly calls him Noddy. ^[2]Facebook – Bharat Ghare

• He had a passion for dance since he was a child. He has participated in several dance competitions during his school and college days.

Poonam

Kavita Chaudhary (1957-2024) was an Indian actress, television producer, and television director. She predominantly worked in the Hindi television industry. She is known for playing the role of IPS Officer Kalyani Singh in the television series ‘Udaan’ (1989-1991), which aired on DD National. She passed away due to cardiac arrest on 15 February 2024.

Wiki/Biography

Kavita Chaudhary was born on Thursday, 25 July 1957 (age 66 years; at the time of death) in India. Her zodiac sign is Leo. She attended National School of Drama, New Delhi. ^[1]The Indian Express

Physical Appearance

Height (approx.): 5′ 6″

Hair Colour: Light Ash Blonde

Eye Colour: Black

Family

Parents & Siblings

Her father’s name is Madan Mohan Chaudhary. Her mother’s name is Leela Devi. Her elder sister, Kanchan Chaudhary Bhattacharya, was the second woman to become an IPS officer in India and the first woman to become Director General of Police of a state. She died on 26 August 2019.

Kanchan Chaudhary Bhattacharya (left)

Husband 

There is not much information about her marital status.

Religion

She followed Hinduism.

Kavita Chaudhary while worshipping at her home

Career

Television

Kavita Chaudhary made her television debut in 1986 with the television series ‘Apradhi Kaun!,’ which was broadcast on the channel DD National. In the same year, she acted in the TV series ‘Raj Se Swaraj.’ She gained immense popularity after she played the role of IPS Officer Kalyani Singh in the TV series ‘Udaan’ (1989-1991), which aired on DD National. She also worked as a writer, producer, and director for the TV series. The TV series was based on the life story of her sister, Kanchan Chaudhary Bhattacharya. Kanchan was the second woman to become an IPS officer, after Kiran Bedi.

Kavita Chaudhary (left) in a still from the TV series ‘Udaan’

In 2000, she worked as an actress, director, and producer for the television series ‘Your Honour,’ which aired on DD National. She played the lead role of Kaushalya in the television series. She appeared as an anchor in the crime based TV show ‘IPS Diaries’ in 2015. The TV show was broadcast on DD National.

Kavita Chaudhary in a still from the TV show ‘IPS Diaries’

Web Series

In 2017, she played the role of Beeji in the web series ‘Karrle Tu Bhi Mohabbat,’ which was premiered on the OTT platforms ALT Balaji and ZEE5. In 2020, the series was aired on the TV channel Zee TV.

Poster of the TV series ‘Karrle Tu Bhi Mohabbat’

TV Commercial

In the late 1980s, she gained widespread recognition as Lalita ji, the iconic housewife character in Surf detergent ads by Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL). At that time, her character, Lalita ji became an aspirational figure for women in the country.

Kavita Chaudhary in a still from an advertisement for Surf detergent

Other Works

In 1990, Kavita Chaudhary appeared in the film ‘Ek Aur Suhagan.’ She once performed in the play ‘Pagal Khana,’ directed by Alyque Padamsee.

Death

She died due to cardiac arrest on 15 February 2024 at Parvati Devi Hospital in Amritsar, where she was undergoing treatment. ^[2]The Indian Express She had been suffering from cancer for a few years.

Facts/Trivia

• She was the batchmate of Satish Kaushik, Anupam Kher, Govind Namdev, and Anang Desai during their training at the National School of Drama, New Delhi.

• In an interview, she revealed that once her TV show ‘Udaan’ was planned to be stopped midway, but later a joint secretary in the Home Ministry informed her that following the telecast of her TV series ‘Udaan,’ there had been an increase in the recruitment of women in the Indian civil services. Later, the Minister of Information and Broadcasting at the time granted permission to continue the TV show.

• In 2014, she created her YouTube channel ‘Kaveta Chaudhry’ where she uploaded her vlogs in which she shared the stories related to her most popular TV show ‘Udaan.’ As of 2024, more than 2.17 K people follows her channel.

• She used to make huge donations to help the underprivileged people.
  

  Kavita Chaudhary while donating food

Poonam