A unanimous decision to issue a press release was taken jointly in a virtual zoom meeting held on 22nd June, 2020 at 12 noon by Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) & Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA)

Meeting was attended by:

 Shri B N Tiwari President - FWICE

Shri Gangeshwar Srivastav Treasurer – FWICE

 Shri Manoj Joshi Sr Vice President – CINTAA

 Shri Amit Behl Sr Joint Secretary – CINTAA

 Ms Rajeshwari Sachdev Joint Secretary - CINTAA

Shri Rashid Mehta EC Member – CINTAA

 Shri Sanjay Bhatia EC Member – CINTAA

 Shri Ayub Khan EC Member – CINTAA

The decision to come out with a press release had to be taken as many of the grievances on working conditions/ payment terms/ duty hours which were submitted to the Producers association through series of joint meetings and communications earlier did not result in any positive reverts from them. There is still uncertainty looming large.

Though we have always assured our best support to them they have not taken our concurrence on many issues resulting in lack of clarity and confusions. Many producers are taking unilateral steps of calling our members for shoot, this has only created a feeling of unrest and misguidance amongst the members, even before resumptions of shoot.

 FWICE and CINTAA which has scores of members enrolled in the cadres of Actors, Technicians & Workers need immediate changes implemented in the working system/payment terms before any resumption of shoots.

Post COVID-19 the working system would change for all with probable health challenges and drop in immunity levels hence it is all the more important that all our concerns are suitably addressed.

It is highly regretted to note that even after the strict directives issued by the I & B ministry to all the producers to clear the outstanding dues of the actors, workers and technicians pending prior to the announcement of the lockdown by the Government amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Producers have still not cleared the outstanding dues of our members. All the outstanding dues of our members should be cleared prior to the resumption of the shootings.

Shift hours. Strictly to be 8 hours per day.

#Payments to daily paid actors/ technicians/ workers has to be settledv end of the day.

#All contractual employees have to be paid in 30 days.

#Conveyance has to be settled end of the dayv 

₹Mandatory weekly holidayv

₹Adherence to stringent health and safety protocols as per directives ofv the Government.

#Insurance: Healthv & Life Insurance with Covid-19 specific coverage. We demand a 50-lac cover for actors / workers /technicians who succumb to death.

#No pay cuts/discounts will be agreed by Actors/ workers /techniciansv post resuming to work. 

#No actor/ technicians/ workers would be replaced for refusing givingv discounts on their emoluments. 

#Deployment of a well-equipped ambulance along with a Paramedicalv staff (Nurse) and a Doctor at the location

#All the above-mentioned issues have to be resolved first so that there is complete clarity to all, be it actors/ workers or technicians. No one can risk the lives of human resources and for us at FWICE AND CINTAA certainly not

Shri B N Tiwari-Presiden FWICE

Shri Vikram Gokhle-Honorary President CINTAA

Shri Ashok Dubey -Gen. Secretary FWICE

Shri Manoj Joshi  -Honorary Sr. Vice-President  CINTAA

Shri Gangeshwar Srivastav-Treasurer FWICE

Shri Darshan Jariwalla-Honorary Vice President CINTAA

Shri Amit Behl -Honorary Sr. Jt Secretary & Chairman -Outreach Committee CINTAA

Ms. Rajeshwari Sachdev - Honorary Joint Secretary CINTAA

Shri Abhay Bhargava - Honorary Treasurer- CINTAA

Siddhant Bhosle, May You Be In A League Of Your Own: Amitabh Bachchan

When Siddhant Bhosle, Sudesh Bhosale's son, launched his first original independent song 'Din Aur Raatein' and sent the song to Amitabh Bachchan for his blessings, Sr. Bachchan made a very sweet gesture! He immediately tweeted the song and launched it for the young man. It is also a known fact that Sudesh Bhosale has always been the voice of Amitabh Bachchan, and an unbeatable one at that!

The Superstar took to Twitter and wrote - “Sung, composed, written & arranged by Siddhant Bhosle, son of Sudesh Bhosale, who became my singing voice in my films .. My wishes and love .. may you be in a league of your own!” he blessed. Amitabh Bachchan, whose association has been with Sudesh Bhosale since Ajooba days has seen Siddhant grow up from a child to a fine young man.

“The tweet by Amitabh sir was a big surprise. Dad and I wanted him to be the first person to listen to the song. His feedback is a great learning. But I honestly did not expect him to share it with the world. This was the biggest release for my maiden original song I could ever ask for!”

The production of the song was an experience that the young talent was not accustomed to, due to the COVID-19 lockdown! “Usually, we have a huge team on set during the shoots, however, the lockdown forced us to creatively make things work with what we had. The video has been shot completely at home by my sister Shruti Bhosle. We had to come up with creative ways to coordinate on video call with our supervising DOP Tuhin Mukherjee and Director-Editor Amitesh Mukherjee,” reveals Siddhant Bhosle.

Like anyone else, Siddhant Bhosle was affected by the loneliness of lockdown. “I, too, yearned for comfort, for people, spaces and memories. As a creative person, I took these emotions and channelised them through my songwriting.”

In an attempt to capture these emotions to depict the present as a fleeting moment, something that will surely pass, Siddhant Bhosle tried and motivated the listeners to not lose the ability to fight during difficult times. At the same time, Din Aur Raatein is timeless as it draws a picture of reality with captivating vocals and melody.

Veteran playback singer Sudesh Bhosale is visibly touched by Amitabh Bachchan's familial gesture. “Amit Ji has watched Siddhant grow from a child to a young adult! When he shared the song with his blessings, it regenerated my faith that my son will go a  long way!”

Sung, composed, written and arranged by Siddhant Bhosle, 'Din Aur Raatein' is a blend of International Pop with Indian melodies.

Song Link:
https://youtu.be/2lezMg99v4w

King Dhananjay Datar of Dubai sends Indians home, a la Sonu Sood!

With the UAE being hit by the massive COVID-19 pandemic, Indian migrants in the UAE are queuing up outside the Indian consulate to try and get back to their motherland - India. Thousands of blue- and white-collar workers are unable to deal with the financial crisis and medical emergencies arising due to COVID-19. "I haven't been paid for the last two months," says one worker. "I need money to buy a ticket to get back home," says another. "My wife is thirty-two weeks pregnant and we cannot afford to get the child delivered in the UAE. I have no job and no money. It's a very difficult situation for me."

These Indian expatriates have found a helping hand in entrepreneur Dr. Dhananjay Datar from Maharashtra, India. The man behind the Al-Adil group of companies in the UAE has sponsored the travel of more than 3000 Indians to India thus far besides their COVID-19 tests, medical emergencies and food needs wherever necessary.  And as we speak, is working on sending the  next set of Indians home.

An award-winning entrepreneur, Datar is known for his brand association with actors like Vidya Balan, Karishma Kapoor, Sunny Leone, Juhi Chawla, Shilpa Shetty and Madhuri Dixit among many others. In fact, his autobiography was launched two years ago by Madhuri. This time around, Datar is being touted as his actions make him no less than a star himself. But the earthy entrepreneur dismisses the accolades with his statement. “It is one of the largest emergency evacuations and all hands need to be on deck. As a fellow Indian, I am simply doing what I can.”

“This effort of Datar comes as a breath of fresh air in these times of masked existence,” avers H.E. Vipul, Consulate General of India in Dubai, U.A.E. “We have already sent eleven flights to India. Five of them have repatriated over 3000 Indians. I am glad that Dhananjay Datar of Al-Adil group came forward to sponsor the air tickets and COVID-19 tests. Such support is always welcome.”

Adds Datar, “I understand that many individuals who have lost their jobs are unable to make use of this initiative to go to their hometown since they do not have the money required. I will be coordinating with the approved bodies to extend a helping hand to those in need. All necessary guidelines in connection with this will be strictly followed. I am thankful to those who are involved in the repatriation process."

Next on the cards are 13-14 flights that would bring more expats back home. While on Indian grounds, an actor like Sonu Sood has made migrants feel safe and respected, Datar seems to  be performing a similar laudable effort. He has not just helped medical and travel for the next 50 poor workers from Telangana, but got them.monthly ration down to the last bit of cooking oil. "They are our fellow Indians in a foreign country. They need our support," he says simply. "As flights will start to Goa, Lucknow, Jaipur and Chandigarh, we will send people home

 Maharashtra will take some time but before anyone leaves this soil, we ensure their COVID19 test is done so that the government has least stress back home abd they can be on home quarantine," he adds.

 Incidentally, Al-Adil Trading LLC is one of the leading manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers of premium Indian pulses, spices, foodstuffs, groceries, branded items and assorted non-food items, has 34 outlets in the GCC and India. His group employs 500 employees directly and 370 in the UAE and India, essentially gives job opportunities to Indians, aids farmers by eliminating the process of middlemen in terms of procurement.

Minister Aslam Sheikh distributes 2,500 Dry Ration kits to the Dabbawallahs of Mumbai City.

The Maha Vikas Aghadi Government backs and supports the Dabbawallahs plight wholeheartedly.

Hon. Guardian Minister Shri.Aslam Shaikh distributed 2,500 Dry Ration Kits to the Iconic Dabbawallahs on Monday. The event was organized at the P-North Divisional Office of Mumbai Municipal Corporation. Anusha Srinivasan Iyer of Make Earth Green Again Mega Foundation  brought the Dabbawallah's pleas to the notice of the Hon. Minister. Senior officials of the Municipal Corporation were present at the distribution.

Mr. Ramdas Karonde, President of Mumbai Dabbawallah Association, explained to Mr. Aslam Shaikh the financial crisis faced by them due to the lockdown. Vinod Shete, spokesperson of the association, requested an Aid of Rs. 2,000 per person per month. The Hon. Minister patiently listened to their grievances and asked for an immediate punchnama to help those whose houses were ravaged by the the recent Nisarg cyclone.

Mr. Shaikh said,  "The Dabbawallahs are the lifeline of working Mumbai. They have been  serving the metro for over 130 years and feed us with love and grace." He promised to  arrange rations for Dabbawallahs and their families till the end of the lockdown. He  promised to raise the issues of Dabbawallahs in the forthcoming Cabinet Meeting as well. "It took Hon.Minister Aslam Shaikhji a day to arrange for the ration. The city is privileged and grateful to have such a Guardian Minister who reached out immediately and ensured help, giving a patient ear to the dabbawallahs," reiterated Anusha Iyer.

My kids don't believe I'm On Screen In Ramayan: Swwapnil Joshi

Swwapnil Joshi is ecstatic over the Mythological Re-Run wave as Uttar Ramayan tops the TRP charts!

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has shaken the entire world, having a dastardly impact on everyone's lives. The Indian entertainment industry is no different! With mythological shows marking their comeback during the lockdown, as announced by the Government, the decision to re-run the shows that impacted everyone's childhoods, has been welcomed with open arms by viewers across the country. And, like so many others, actor Swwapnil Joshi has also taken to watching the re-runs of these shows. In fact, two of the actor's really popular shows, Uttar Ramayan and Shri Krishna are also making their way back into people's homes.
Defying all odds, Swwapnil Joshi has proved his mettle and made his mark across the cinematic universe! From a popular child in the Indian television scene to the chocolate boy of the Marathi film and TV industry, Swwapnil Joshi has also marked his foray into the recently trending web-series domain lately with Samantar.
Speaking on the re-runs of mythological shows, Swwapnil avers, “The lockdown takes a toll on the people and everyone needs their calm. Nothing calms you more than shows like Ramayan, Mahabharat and Shri Krishna.” Out of the three iconic shows, the actor par excellence has played pivotal lead roles in two of them; as Kush (of Luv and Kush) in Uttar Ramayan and Krishna of Shri Krishna. "There is nobody in the world who doesn't know about Lord Rama and Krishna,” the actor adds.
Citing that these aren't mere shows and are a part of so many people's childhoods and culture, Swwapnil believes that, irrespective of caste or religion, Ramayana and Mahabharat are shows that every Indian has watched and enjoyed! Swwapnil Joshi has the final word, “This is an amazing opportunity for everyone to relive their childhoods, including me! Personally, I am enjoying the re-runs with my children.” Interestingly enough, Swwapnil reveals that his kids do not recognize him on the show! “They refuse to believe that it's me on-screen. I was 9 or 10 at that time.”

I am all for new tunes, lyrics and songs on my YouTube channel: Asha Bhosle

She has been bestowed with contagious energy, an ever-youthful persona and voice that has mesmerised audiences transcending generations. Now, Asha Bhosle is on YouTube with her channel 'Asha Bhosle Official' youthful original content, albeit with a dash of spiritualism!

What prompted the legendary songstress to go the YouTube way? Necessity is the mother of invention is hardly the reply you think of, but Asha Tai answers with honesty. "Due to the present situation, like all of humanity, I’m cooped up at home. Sitting at home, with my grandkids and observing their net savvy communication skills, a new world opened up for me. Over the years, I’ve been asked by many people to pen down my thoughts, experiences and emotions but I just didn’t have the time. Now, that I am at home, I decided to record my experiences of 86 years and maybe some of them may entertain people, make them think or just have a good time and a laugh." Stating that there is so much negativity around us, Asha Bhosle wants her channel to be a medium where with her infectious energy, she can lighten moods. And of course, leave timeless works for the present and future generations that will have record of people she has worked with.  "I thought YouTube would be a wonderful medium to chat with all my friends out there sitting in far away places."

Zanai Bhosle, Asha Bhosle's 18 year old  grand daughter is her muse. "I am particularly fond of Zanai because she has got an artistic side. She is a song writer, singer, musician and classical Kathak dancer... she reminds me of myself and maybe that is why I feel close to her. Though she is much younger than me, she sometimes says things from which I can learn and educate myself further. I like that." So when Zanai started her YouTube channel, her youthful grandma watched her and got inspired. "Sensing my enthusiasm, Zanai egged me on to have my own channel to record my life’s experiences." Asha Bhosle is sure she is going to put down many stories of her life that can remain alive for posterity.

Talking of the maiden song ‘Main Hoon’ with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Asha Bhosle also reveals her spiritual side. "Sri Sri Ravishankarji is a wonderful person. I have known him for a while. It was a chance meeting in Cambodia when we both were enjoying the sites of Angkor Vat when I felt that he is different from other spiritual people or gurus that I have met. And when I heard the lyrics of the song and the wonderful composition, it brought a certain calm to my soul," she expresses.
The singer wanted to  release the tribute on Sri Srijis birthday. "Now that the day has dawned, I hope the listeners understand the spirituality behind the song," she avers.

Asha Bhosle's YouTube channel besides music will unravel interesting facets of her, replete with anecdotes. "There are so many memories that are lying dormant in my mind. I will bring them alive through YouTube and share it with my listeners."

One can not but think of Asha Bhosle being an amazing cook, the time she wanted to be a nurse or when she sang in Russian or when she danced on stage with a stick or got fired by Lata didi... the singer has always followed her heart...

But there is still more. Asha Bhosle promises to also introduce fresh new songs that viewers can enjoy. "There’s a short trailer on the YouTube channel that gives you a glimpse of what is in store. As we go along, it is going to be an interactive channel with a lot of content," she reveals.

What kind of songs can we expect? "The past is gone. It’s history. I don’t delve nor live in the past. I forge ahead. So, my music too will be modern, fresh and new. Of course my past work will be represented through anecdotes et al, but I am all for new tunes, lyrics and songs," Asha Bhosle enthuses.

What more to expect from the evergreen Asha Bhosle besides this reinvention? "This is just the beginning. You’ll be surprised with what I have in store," quips Asha Bhosle mysteriously.

Any words before we bid adieu? "Music is divine. Life is too serious to be taken seriously," she signs off. Touche!

Link to Song 'Main Hoon' on Asha Bhosle Official...
https://youtu.be/Z_F-KpzNiXw

Gaurav Chanana in 100 hours 100 Stars; A Fever FM initiative in aid of PM Cares

He has a dashing similarity with Lucifer. His handsome persona, carelessly tossed mane, his quirky sense of humour and of course the unmissable green eyes that look into your soul... Gaurav Chanana is also one person who wears many hats, each suiting him. "The pursuit is of sheer happiness," he reveals. This all-heart feel was evident in the candid interview with RJ Aakanksha on Fever Digital, where Gaurav spoke of his venture Lucifer Circus that has made some of the most memorable films recently. The model-actor, in a candid interview on '100 Hours 100 Stars', talks about everything from work, home, family,

life et al.

Gaurav took to social media to speak about his familial poetry-shayari recital that encourage a successful lockdown during these trying times! He speaks about the familiarity of his locales and how he is happy reminiscing about it. He explains that there is not much to go forward to but that life is flavourful. Compared to his escaping childhood that lies hidden in these familiar lanes, all of life's problems appear to be minuscule when the aged and wrinkled faces of parents smile at you! He adds that he misses his parents the most during the lockdown.

Gaurav also speaks about the adaptability of the human race! Speaking about the novelty found in new experiences, he reminisces the times when he had newly moved into a sea-facing apartment and he would relish the breeze every day! However, fast forward to today, he doesn't give much importance to it. “Humans survive. We get used to things. During lockdown, I sleep at 3 am and wake up at 12 in the afternoon. When lockdown is over, I will adapt.” He discloses that he is a mountain person as he lives near the beach! He also shares an instance of a man living in a palatial house and a man living in a 6x6 room!

Participating in a fun round of rapid fire, Gaurav discloses a fun fact that he doesn't really read! “People find it odd for a writer to not read,” he laughs it off. He also lauds Shikha Malhotra, an actor turned nurse, who has been helping out as a frontline Covid-19 warrior. He also adds that the frontline Covid-19 warriors deserve a non-stop tribute while the RJ concurs the actor-model's statement!

On the professional front, Gaurav Chanana, who is also an avid writer, is currently working on projects for Lucifer Circus, his production house. He avers, “If I don't feel happy doing something, I don't do it! Even if I lose money. Story-telling, if told from the heart, always works its charm!” Lucifer Circus also has path-breaking achievements to its credit, including a short film where a kid from the slums learns the language of a deaf and mute kid in order to communicate with him!

“The Prime Minister has done a great job so far! We need to do whatever we can and I urge everyone to donate,” signs off Gaurav. The funds raised will go to the Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations (PM-Cares) fund.

Here are some of his production house Lucifer Circus's recent memorable projects...

https://www.facebook.com/LuciferCircus/videos/2517247411875708/ (Dairy Day Campaign)

https://www.facebook.com/LuciferCircus/videos/203391634225447/ (Dairy Day Ice Cream)

https://www.facebook.com/LuciferCircus/videos/2165864823706506/ (Centre Fresh TVC)

https://www.facebook.com/LuciferCircus/videos/419309255389060/ (Manyavar Feat. Kartik Aaryan)

https://www.facebook.com/LuciferCircus/videos/480524575829001/ (Britannia NutriChoice)

https://www.facebook.com/LuciferCircus/videos/473262903465950/ (Manyavar Feat. Kartik Aaryan)

https://www.facebook.com/LuciferCircus/videos/606751096434107/ (Duke's Waffy Carnival)

https://www.facebook.com/LuciferCircus/videos/352938408630141/ (Duke's Waffy Carnival)