Engaging Performances and Direction
Karthi and Arvind Swamy deliver riveting performances, adding depth and intensity to their characters. Director C. Prem Kumar has skillfully woven a story that touches on themes of truth and integrity, aligning with the name Meiyazhagan, meaning “Man with truth as beauty.” The film’s authenticity is further enhanced by the grounded direction and emotional clarity, making it a compelling watch.

Why Meiyazhagan is Worth Watching
For a viewer like Sonu Tyagi, who appreciates well-crafted storytelling in Hindi classics, Hollywood films, and international cinema, Meiyazhagan offers an unexpected yet rewarding cinematic experience. It stands out for its brilliance in minimalism, showing that a film doesn’t need a large budget to resonate deeply with audiences. The direction and screenplay keep viewers engaged till the end, making it one of those rare gems that leave you satisfied and reflective.

Recommendation
If you’re in the mood for something unique that feels real and meaningful, Meiyazhagan is an excellent choice. It shows how regional cinema, especially Tamil, can deliver impactful narratives that cross language barriers, much like the international cinema you enjoy. So, Meiyazhagan is a must-watch, not only for its storytelling but for the sense of joy and fulfillment it leaves you with.

Sonu Tyagi is an accomplished writer, director, and producer with a dynamic career spanning advertising, media, and entertainment. As the founder of Approach Entertainment, he has built an award-winning company specializing in celebrity management, film production, and PR. With a background in psychology, advertising management, journalism, and filmmaking, Sonu Tyagi has brought a unique perspective to his projects, producing a range of films, advertising campaigns, music videos, and, recently, a spiritual web series titled Two Great Masters. His work reflects a passion for storytelling and an understanding of audience engagement across multiple platforms.

The post Film Review and Recommendation for Meiyazhagan first appeared on Approach Bollywood.

The twisted tale unfolds in the fictional hilly town of Devipur, where police inspector Vidya Jyothi (Kajol) finds herself drawn to a series of unsettling events involving Saumya (Kriti Sanon) and her husband, Dhruv Sood (Shaheer Sheikh). When Saumya’s twin sister, Shailee, suddenly arrives at the hill station, her intrigue deepens, leaving Vidya to question whether anything is truly as it seems within this web of half-truths and half-lies.  

Expressing her excitement, Kriti Sanon shares, “Do Patti is incredibly special to me, not just because it’s my first film as a producer, but also because it allowed me to explore my own duality on-screen. This film has been like my baby; Kanika and I have nurtured it from the start, especially in our capacity as producers and it’s truly fulfilling to see this journey through with Netflix. Do Patti also has a poignant message woven in which is the reason why I chose to produce this film as my first, and I can’t wait for audiences to experience it.” 

Reflecting on her role as Vidya Jyothi, Kajol shares, “As an actor, I have always looked forward to roles that allow me to connect with my audience. This being the first time I play a police officer, I can’t wait for my fans to see me in this new avatar. Bringing this powerful story to life has been rewarding.” 

The high-stakes drama reunites powerhouse talents Kriti Sanon and Kajol after Dilwale (2015) in an edge-of-the-seat story of betrayal, and the complexities of human nature in a dangerous game of one-upmanship.

Speaking about the film, Kanika Dhillon, writer and producer with her banner Kathha Pictures, says, “Do Patti is very close to my heart. Collaborating with two powerhouse performers, Kriti and Kajol was an absolute delight. I am glad that this powerful tale of sibling rivalry, and redemption with a gut-wrenching message can be enjoyed by audiences across the world thanks to Netflix and their global viewership.”    

Monika Shergill, Vice President of Content at Netflix India, says, “Do Patti brings together the powerhouse talents of the iconic Kajol, the charismatic Kriti Sanon, and the brilliant storyteller Kanika Dhillon, each known for their remarkable strength and range. This film takes audiences on an investigative journey that doubles as an emotional rollercoaster, filled with unexpected twists and culminating in a surprising end. Watch out for this complete entertainer.”

Releasing on October 25, Do Patti promises a cinematic experience that will linger long after the credits roll.

Director Shashanka Chaturvedi Writer Kanika Dhillon Producers Kanika Dhillon and Kriti Sanon Produced by Kathha Pictures and Blue Butterfly Films Cast Kajol, Kriti Sanon, Shaheer Sheikh, Tanvi Azmi and Brijendra Kala

The post Twisted Twins and a Fierce Cop — Netflix Drops ‘Do Patti’ Trailer first appeared on Approach Bollywood.

In his new role, Ishan will oversee the overall monetisation strategy for JioCinema, focusing on revenue generation from sports and driving growth in small and medium-sized business (SMB) revenues across both sports and entertainment sectors.

Ishan joins JioCinema from YouTube India, where he served as Managing Director and was instrumental in shaping the platform’s strategic direction and growth in the country. With over two decades of diverse experience, including 13 years at Google, he has also held significant roles at McKinsey and Hindustan Unilever. Ishan is an alumnus of The Wharton School and St. Stephen’s College, Delhi.

As a key member of JioCinema’s leadership team, Ishan will collaborate closely with Kiran Mani to further the platform’s ambitious goals in the dynamic digital entertainment landscape.

The post JioCinema names Ishan Chatterjee as Chief Business Officer first appeared on Approach Bollywood.

PILL introduces you to Prakash Chauhan, played by Riteish Deshmukh, who digs through the deep-set rot in the Indian pharmaceutical world. The series showcases the process through which a pill reaches an individual, through diverse characters – from powerful pharma industrialists, corrupt doctors, to medical representatives, compromised drug regulators, politicians, journalists, and whistleblowers. Through the course of the show, tension unfolds as Prakash faces-off the manipulative CEO of Pharma company, portrayed by Pavan Malhotra and takes on an honest fight to find out the truth behind the powerful nexus that puts profits before patients. In this compelling clash of good vs. evil, Prakash’s quest to truth raises hope for the common man to be more aware and vigilant in a world where everyone is at the mercy of medicines and vaccines.

Talking about his debut series, Riteish Deshmukh said, “It’s exciting to venture into the world of digital streaming. When you’re entrusted with a compelling story like Pill, there’s a huge responsibility to do justice to it. It’s intriguing to learn about the complexities behind something as seemingly simple as a pill that impacts our daily lives and well-being. Being a part of this journey has been incredibly enlightening. Working alongside visionaries like Raj Kumar Gupta and Ronnie Screwvala, who have poured their hearts into this project, is a true honour. Prakash Chauhan is a character of both simplicity and strength, and I am confident that his fight against the corrupt pharma players will resonate with the audience.”

Ronnie Screwvala, also shared, “We’ve worked hard to bring an original and thought-provoking concept and story like PILL that explores untold landscapes and asks crucial questions. With PILL, we aim to entertain as well as increase awareness amongst people. Riteish brings his unparalleled acting prowess to the series, making his digital debut even more exciting. And as always, it is a pleasure working with Raj who has helmed this one with his thrilling expertise. Lastly the show’s release on JioCinema allows us the widest audience reach and together we look forward to bringing this powerful series to screens far and wide.”

Raj Kumar Gupta commented, “Celluloid has always been my medium of expression as I’ve made films across genres to bring different stories to my audiences. And now, I am looking forward to experimenting with the long format on OTT. A story like ‘Pill’ needed to be told through a longer format and I am glad to be collaborating with JioCinema to tell this story. It has been a great experience working with Riteish, Ronnie, and the entire team on this one. We all are looking forward to bringing this story to audiences.”

The post JioCinema Premium unveils the trailer of ‘PILL’, showcases the dark underbelly of the Pharma Industry first appeared on Approach Bollywood.

Approach Bollywood : Can you tell us about the inspiration behind writing the book ‘Two Great Masters’ and the journey of bringing it to life as a web series?

Amrit Gupta: My inspiration to write ‘Two Great Masters’ stemmed from a deep love for humanity and a desire to share the profound teachings of Swami Vivekananda and Paramahansa Yogananda. After decades of study and practice of their teachings, I felt compelled to bring their wisdom to a wider audience. The transition to a web series was a natural progression, driven by the vision to reach a broader digital audience. Collaborating with Anurag Sharma and the team at Juni Films & Approach Entertainment was pivotal in bringing this vision to fruition.

Approach Bollywood : What aspects of the teachings of Swami Vivekananda and Paramahansa Yogananda do you believe are most relevant in today’s world?

Amrit Gupta: Their teachings transcend barriers of religion, caste, and creed, offering practical wisdom for leading purposeful and fulfilling lives. The science of yoga and spirituality they advocated provides timeless solutions to modern-day challenges, guiding individuals towards inner transformation and happiness.

Approach Bollywood : Could you share your experience with the research process for writing the book, and any challenges you faced along the way?

Approach Bollywood : Despite challenges in publishing and distribution, fueled by publishers’ reluctance and financial constraints, the journey of writing ‘Two Great Masters’ was immensely rewarding. My background in reading, writing, and drafting during my official career proved invaluable in navigating these challenges.

Approach Bollywood : ‘Two Great Masters’ has now been adapted into a web series. How do you feel about seeing your work come to life on screen?

Amrit Gupta: Witnessing ‘Two Great Masters’ transform from a book to a web series has brought immense pleasure, devoid of any desire for personal acclaim. My hope is that the series reaches a wide audience, enriching lives and inspiring positive change.

Approach Bollywood : How closely does the web series follow the narrative and themes of your book?

Amrit Gupta : The web series closely aligns with the narrative and themes of the book, maintaining fidelity to the teachings of Vivekananda and Yogananda. Any creative liberties taken during the adaptation process were minimal and aimed at enhancing the viewer’s experience.

Approach Bollywood : What message or insights do you hope viewers will take away from watching the ‘Two Great Masters’ web series?

Amrit Gupta: I hope viewers are introduced not only to the remarkable lives of Vivekananda and Yogananda but also to the profound science of spirituality. Through an engaging narrative and digital medium, the series offers lasting solutions to life’s questions and inspires contemplation on true and lasting happiness.

Approach Bollywood : Did you collaborate closely with the production team, and were there any specific challenges or highlights during production?

Amrit Gupta: Despite not being physically present, I collaborated closely with the production team. Challenges, such as completing shootouts within budget constraints, were overcome through teamwork and dedication to the project’s vision.

Approach Bollywood : How do you envision the impact of ‘Two Great Masters’ on viewers, particularly in terms of sparking interest in spirituality and the teachings of Vivekananda and Yogananda?

Amrit Gupta : I believe ‘Two Great Masters’ will serve as a gateway to spirituality for many viewers, igniting interest in the teachings of Vivekananda and Yogananda. By offering practical solutions and insights, the series has the potential to profoundly impact lives and foster spiritual growth.

Approach Bollywood : Do you have any upcoming projects or plans related to spiritual literature or media that you can share with us?

Amrit Gupta : Currently, I am considering delving into topics such as the “Chemistry of Life” or exploring the true structure of creation. These endeavors aim to further illuminate the interconnectedness of all existence and deepen our understanding of the universe.

The post Approach Bollywood Exclusive Interview with Amrit Gupta, Writer of ‘Two Great Masters,’ Produced by Juni Films & Approach Entertainment, Explores the Spiritual Journey Depicted in the Series first appeared on Approach Bollywood.

The report highlights the substantial growth in digital media revenue, totaling Rs. 63,200 crores in 2023. OTT video platforms contribute a hefty Rs. 31,800 crores to this figure, with advertising-based video on demand (AVoD) accounting for Rs. 21,900 crores and subscription-based video on demand (SVoD) making up the rest. Meta alone generates Rs. 16,500 crores in revenue.

In January 2024, AVoD attracted 133 million unique viewers, projected to grow to 205 million by January 2025. SVoD, with 88 million unique viewers, is expected to reach 110 million in the same period.

JioCinema leads the OTT revenue share with 29.6%, followed by Prime Video and Mini TV at 18.9%. Disney+ Hotstar holds a 12.8% share, while Netflix has 6.5%. In terms of unique viewers, Disney+ Hotstar tops the list with 135 million, followed by JioCinema with 125 million. Zee5, Prime Video, and Mini TV each have 52 million and 51 million unique viewers respectively. Notably, more than half of Netflix users access the platform through connected TVs (CTVs), a trend also significant for Prime Video and, to a lesser extent, Disney+ Hotstar.

The total number of yearly OTT viewers rose to 504 million in January 2024 from 496 million in January 2023 and 460 million in January 2022. In 2023, Disney+ Hotstar led in weekly watchtime with 171 minutes, followed by Netflix (149 minutes), JioCinema (142 minutes), SonyLIV (139 minutes), and Prime Video (125 minutes).

The report also reveals demographic insights: males dominated OTT consumption in 2023, and Prime Video’s viewership largely came from the 2-24 age group (31.9%). However, for Disney+ Hotstar and JioCinema, the 25-34 age group was most significant, contributing 40.1% and 39.8% of their viewership, respectively.

With the rapid growth of OTT platforms, the entertainment landscape in India is evolving, promising more diverse and accessible content for viewers nationwide.

The post OTT Viewers in India to Surpass 300 Million in Two Years: Chrome OTT Report first appeared on Approach Bollywood.

From the serene landscapes of Shoolini University in Solan, Himachal Pradesh, to the digital screens of viewers worldwide, ‘Two Great Masters’ promises an immersive and enlightening experience. The series weaves a captivating narrative inspired by the profound philosophies of Vivekananda and Yogananda, offering audiences a unique perspective on spirituality in the modern era.

Two Great Masters is directed by Anurag Sharma & Created by Sonu Tyagi. It features veteran actor Rakesh Bedi as narrator along with Anurag Sharma, Deep Sharma, Pavli Kashyap & Durga Kamboj in pivotal roles. Bedi’s portrayal adds depth and authenticity to the story, guiding viewers on a journey of self-discovery and inner transformation

The web series is supported by a leading Spiritual organization, Go Spiritual India. Go Spiritual India is a Charitable Spiritual Organization Working for Philanthropy, Spiritual Awareness, Spiritual Tourism, Spiritual Media, Spiritual Events, Organic, Mental Health, Wellness, and Holistic Health.

Sonu Tyagi, Co-Producer of ‘Two Great Masters’ and Director of Approach Entertainment, expressed his excitement about the series’ premiere, emphasizing its relevance in today’s fast-paced world. He stated, “We are thrilled to bring ‘Two Great Masters’ to audiences worldwide through the MX Player platform. This series not only entertains but also enlightens, bridging the gap between spirituality and contemporary life.”

Anurag Sharma, Director of Juni Films, shared insights into the creative vision behind ‘Two Great Masters,’ affirming that the series goes beyond mere biography to explore the timeless wisdom of Vivekananda and Yogananda. “Our aim with this series is to inspire and uplift audiences, fostering a deeper understanding of spirituality amidst the complexities of modern living,” remarked Sharma.

Amrit Gupta, author of the renowned book ‘Two Great Masters,’ on which the web series is based, expressed his delight at seeing his work adapted for the screen. “It is truly gratifying to witness ‘Two Great Masters’ come to life on screen, bringing the timeless teachings of Vivekananda and Yogananda to a new generation of viewers,” Gupta commented.

With its captivating storyline, stellar cast, and picturesque cinematography, ‘Two Great Masters’ promises to captivate audiences of all ages. Now available for streaming exclusively on MX Player, viewers can embark on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening from the comfort of their homes.

Juni Films is a Film Production company headed by Anurag Sharma. It has already produced a Bollywood Film Juni – The Last Prayer in 2022 and is working on a few projects soon.

Approach Entertainment stands as an acclaimed hub for Celebrity Management, Film Productions, Advertising & Corporate Film solutions, Films Marketing, Events & Entertainment Marketing Company.  Approach Communications operates as a prominent PR & Integrated Communications agency catering to diverse sectors like Corporate, Healthcare, Entertainment, Finance, Education, and Social domains.

With a rapidly expanding presence in Mumbai, New Delhi, Gurugram, Goa, Kolkata, Dehradun, Chandigarh, Hyderabad, and Jalandhar, Approach Entertainment Group operates at the forefront of entertainment, media, and communications. Additionally, the group boasts a specialized Bollywood Newswire & Content Dissemination unit known as Approach Bollywood.

Approach Entertainment Group is also having a Charitable Spiritual Organization, Go Spiritual India working for Philanthropy, Spiritual Awareness, Charity, Mental Health, Wellness, Organic, Spiritual Tourism, Events, Media, and Social Causes.

This unique web series is probably the first such venture that highlights the spiritual philosophy as experienced and described by Vivekananda and Paramhansa Yogananda. It remains a big question, how no one has thought of bringing the lives of these two masters on the celluloid or on the web before. In fact, the web series “Two Great Masters” is also not a straightforward biographical account of the lives of the two great masters. It rather showcases their philosophical and spiritual perspectives of life through present time characters.

For More Info: Visit us at www.approachentertainment.com & www.gospiritualindia.org

Approach Entertainment 9820965004 / 9716962242 

The post Juni Films & Approach Entertainment’s Spiritual Web Series ‘Two Great Masters,’ Directed by Anurag Sharma, Premieres on MX Player OTT first appeared on Approach Bollywood.

Hopkins underscored India’s dominance in Prime Video adoption, highlighting how Indian Prime members are not just subscribing but also engaging with Prime Video content at an unprecedented rate. With a significant portion of Prime Video’s viewership stemming from India, Hopkins stressed the country’s critical position in Amazon’s quest to acquire the next 250 million subscribers worldwide.

The showcase unveiled a grand total of nearly 70 films and shows, showcasing the diversity and richness of Indian storytelling across languages such as Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu. From gripping dramas to rib-tickling comedies, the slate boasted 40 original series and 29 films, promising something for every cinephile’s palate.

Among the highlights was the Hindi-language series ‘Citadel: Honey Bunny’, set in the expansive Citadel universe and starring industry luminaries Varun Dhawan, Samantha Ruth Prabhu, and Kay Kay Menon. Additionally, ‘Dupahiya’, a tale set in a crime-free village celebrating 25 years of tranquility, piqued audience interest with its intriguing premise.

The showcase also unveiled a myriad of captivating titles, including ‘Matka King’, a riveting narrative following a Mumbai cotton trader’s foray into the world of gambling, and ‘Ranjeen’, which delves into the complexities of middle-aged life with a stellar cast.

In a nod to India’s burgeoning young adult audience, Prime Video announced a slew of enticing titles tailored to their interests, including ‘Call Me Bae’, ‘Bandwaale’, ‘Ziddi Girls’, and ‘Dil Dosti Dilemma’, promising relatable and engaging narratives for the youth.

Sushant Sreeram, Country Director of Prime Video, India, expressed pride in the platform’s commitment to delivering top-notch entertainment to Indian audiences. With a diverse array of content spanning genres and languages, Prime Video aims to solidify its position as the ultimate destination for entertainment aficionados, not just in India but across the globe.

In an industry marked by its vibrant storytelling and larger-than-life narratives, Amazon Prime Video’s Bollywood blitz promises to captivate audiences worldwide with its unparalleled slate of Indian entertainment.

The post “Amazon Prime Video’s India Focus: Unveiling Largest Content Slate Yet, Targets Global Expansion” first appeared on Approach Bollywood.

Amidst the recent crackdown on 18 OTT platforms for disseminating obscene and vulgar content, Sonu Tyagi, acclaimed Writer, Director, Producer, and Founder of Approach Entertainment & Go Spiritual India, has come forth to commend the decisive action taken by Union Minister Anurag Singh Thakur. Recognizing the detrimental impact of such content on societal values and mental well-being, Tyagi voiced his support for the government’s initiative to curb the proliferation of objectionable material under the guise of creative expression.

In an exclusive statement to Bollywood & Entertainment Newswire, Approach Bollywood , Tyagi emphasized the importance of responsible content creation, underscoring the need for a delicate balance between artistic freedom and societal responsibility. “Creative freedom comes with a responsibility,” he asserted, echoing sentiments shared by many in the industry who advocate for ethical storytelling.

Approach Entertainment, a renowned film productions, celebrity management & entertainment marketing company founded by Sonu Tyagi, has been at the forefront of promoting meaningful content across various platforms. With a diverse portfolio spanning film production, celebrity & talent management, advertising films, events & entertainment marketing, Approach Entertainment has consistently championed narratives that resonate with audiences while upholding ethical standards.

Sonu Tyagi, in collaboration with Approach Entertainment and Go Spiritual India, has recently co-produced the web series “Two Great Masters.” Directed by Anurag Sharma, the series draws inspiration from the teachings of Swami Vivekananda and Paramhans Yogananda as depicted in Amrit Gupta’s book of the same name. The cast includes veteran actor Rakesh Bedi among others. Anticipated to premiere soon, the spiritual web series will be available on OTT platforms and television channels.

Additionally, Tyagi’s brainchild, Go Spiritual India, stands as a beacon for mental health awareness and holistic well-being. Through its multifaceted initiatives, Go Spiritual India aims to foster a positive cultural shift by promoting spiritual enlightenment, mental wellness, and compassion in society.

Highlighting the detrimental effects of obscene and vulgar content on mental health, particularly among the youth, Tyagi stressed the urgency of addressing this issue. He underscored the need for brands and content creators to exercise discernment in their associations, advocating for a shift towards narratives that inspire and uplift.

Furthermore, Go Spiritual India’s ongoing efforts in the realm of mental health advocacy serve as a testament to its commitment to fostering a society where individuals can thrive emotionally and spiritually.

Amidst ongoing debates surrounding government intervention in regulating OTT content, Tyagi’s endorsement of Anurag Thakur’s measures reflects a growing consensus within the industry regarding the need for responsible content governance.

As discussions surrounding the impact of media on societal values continue to evolve, voices like Sonu Tyagi’s serve as catalysts for meaningful change, heralding a new era of conscientious storytelling and cultural enrichment.

Go Spiritual India is a charitable spiritual organization dedicated to fostering spirituality, spiritual awareness, philanthropy, and social causes. Additionally, it is actively involved in promoting spiritual tourism, organizing media and events, advocating for mental health awareness, and promoting organic wellness initiatives.

Approach Entertainment stands as a comprehensive and acclaimed entity in the entertainment industry, offering a wide array of services. From award-winning celebrity management to film production, advertising, corporate film production, film marketing, events, and entertainment marketing, Approach Entertainment is a powerhouse of expertise. Additionally, the company boasts Approach Communications, a renowned PR and integrated marketing communications agency, along with Approach Bollywood, a prominent Bollywood newswire.

For More Info:  Approach Entertainment / Go Spiritual India

Sonu Tyagi   9820965004 / 9716962242

Visit us at www.approachentertainment.com & www.gospiritualindia.org

The post Sonu Tyagi, Founder of Approach Entertainment & Go Spiritual India, Welcomes Anurag Thakur’s Initiative to Ban Obscene and Vulgar OTTs first appeared on Approach Bollywood.

Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting Shri Anurag Singh Thakur has repeatedly emphasized the responsibility of the platforms to not propagate obscenity, vulgarity and abuse under the guise of ‘creative expression’. On 12th March, 2024, Shri Thakur announced that 18 OTT platforms publishing obscene and vulgar content have been taken down.

The recent decision was taken under the provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000 in consultation with other Ministries/Departments of the Government of India, and domain experts specializing in media and entertainment, women’s rights, and child rights.

List of OTT Platforms

Nature of Content

A significant portion of the content hosted on these platforms was found to be obscene, vulgar, and portrayed women in a demeaning manner. It depicted nudity and sexual acts in various inappropriate contexts, such as relationships between teachers and students, incestuous family relationships, etc. The content included sexual innuendos and, in some instances, prolonged segments of pornographic and sexually explicit scenes devoid of any thematic or societal relevance.

The content was determined to be prima facie in violation of Section 67 and 67A of the IT Act, Section 292 of the IPC, and Section 4 of the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986.

Significant Viewership

One of the OTT apps amassed more than 1 crore downloads, while two others had over 50 lakh downloads on the Google Play Store. Additionally, these OTT platforms extensively utilized social media to disseminate trailers, specific scenes, and external links aimed at attracting audiences to their websites and apps. The social media accounts of the concerned OTT platforms had a cumulative followership of over 32 lakh users.

Constant Engagement with OTT Platforms

The Ministry of I&B consistently conducts sensitization efforts with OTT platforms and their self-regulatory bodies established under the IT Rules, 2021 through meetings, webinars, workshops, etc.

The Government of India remains committed to fostering the growth and development of the OTT industry. Several measures have been undertaken in this regard, including the introduction of the Inaugural OTT Award for Web Series at the 54th International Film Festival of India, collaboration with OTT platforms in the media and entertainment sector, and the establishment of a light touch regulatory framework with an emphasis on self-regulation under the IT Rules, 2021.

The post 18 OTT Platforms Blocked for Obscene and Vulgar Content After Multiple Warnings from Union Minister Anurag Thakur first appeared on Approach Bollywood.