Ronnie Screwvala

Panjab '95 , starring Diljit Dosanjh, has been in the news after the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) asked for several cuts. Its release has been in limbo and for the first time, its director, Honey Trehan, has come out to talk about the hassles he faced. At one point, Honey Trehan shockingly confessed, Some senior people from CBFC asked Ronnie (producer Ronnie Screwvala), Why dont you write off this film?! From 21 to 127 how CBFCs cut list for Panjab 95 increased over time; Honey Trehan makes EXPLOSIVE revelation: CBFC told us remove desh, Gurbani; asked me Itni zor se sach kaun bolta hai?I told Ronnie Screwvala that 127-cut version should neither have my name nor Diljit Dosanjhs In a conversation with Kunal Kamra, Honey Trehan said that the Examining Committee (EC) of the CBFC asked him to submit documents to prove that the incidents depicted in the film occurred in real life. Honey and his team gave a detailed document to the EC. Honey then said, The CBFC gave us 21 points and asked us to make modifications. I told them that the film would be harmed and that it was based on a true story. They told us to remove the reference to Jaswant Singh Khalra. But my film is about Jaswant Singh Khalra! My producer and I felt that it was not fair. Also, they didnt provide us with a valid reason for the cuts. Honey continued, I decided to go to the courts; at least, theyll at least give me a reason to make changes. One lawyer came from CBFC, followed by one more and then one more. They were in the category of Additional Solicitor and those kinds of learned advocates. But they didnt focus on the cuts. They only made assumptions (that the film will create law and order problems). Honey Trehan revealed, Comedy was going on. One day, one of the lawyers said, Lordship, we need another date. When the judge asked the reason, he replied, Our lawyer is retiring today. The lordship asked him, Did he get a call in the morning informing him of his retirement? He would have known about it a month ago. Then, why did he take up this case?. The judge also asked, Since when did the court start working on assumptions?. There was pin-drop silence. When the judge asked if he had seen the film, the learned lawyer replied in the negative. The judge (was shocked and) asked him to watch the film. The lordship also asked for a copy of the movie. Honey added, Meanwhile, our film got selected at the Toronto International Film Festival. In the next hearing, the lawyer informed the judge that after seeing the film, he was so disturbed that he couldnt sleep properly. The judge said, Even I saw it. I was also so disturbed that I couldnt sleep properly at night. The lawyer replied, Thats precisely my point. He argued that the law-and-order situation will deteriorate and that militancy could get aggravated. The lordship looked at him and asked, Can you please tell me which scene touches upon separatism and law and order?. Finally, the lawyer revealed, Not just CBFC, even the I&B ministry has a problem with the film. The same day, my producer got a call asking him to come to Delhi. A day or two later, Ronnie categorically told me, We are neither fighting anymore in the courts nor are we going to Toronto. With no other option, Honey Trehan agreed to the 21 cuts asked by the EC. He continued, After submitting it to the Revising Committee (RC), they told me, We have a few more observations. The number of cuts increased to 45. After doing the cuts, they had a few more observations. The film then got 65 cuts. 85 cuts were a big blow. We had a meeting and the CBFC officials told me, (Despite these 85 cuts), film ka asar kam nahin ho raha hai ! The head of RC remarked, Itni zor se sach kaun bolta hai ?. Later, we were told that the chairperson would watch the film and that we would get the certificate. Sadly, things didnt get better for the makers of the film. Honey Trehan admitted, More than a month later, we were asked to make 37 more cuts. In all, the film is standing at 127 cuts. It's like they want to delete a part of history. I told Ronnie, If your conscience allows, please go ahead and release the film (with 127 cuts). I understand, as his money was stuck. I requested him that this 127-cut version should neither have my name nor Diljits. Honey Trehan then revealed, I was called for another meeting (by CBFC). They told me about 4 key things that they dont want in the film. Firstly, they told me to remove references to Taran Tarn, Amritsar, the crematoriums where the unclaimed bodies were found etc. Words like desh, country, centre, system and extra-judicial killings shouldnt be mentioned. Theres a dialogue, 1995. Indira Gandhi ke assassination ko 11 saal ho chuke the.They asked me to remove mention of Indira Gandhi! I have no idea what is (objectionable) in this line. Moreover, we were told to mention Punjab Police simply as Police. They also asked us to axe the opening scene. All this comprises their first point out of the 4 points! He added, Secondly, they made it clear that there should be no mention of Jaswant Singh Khalra. Thirdly, I was told that I cant depict the flag of India or any other flag. We were told to remove the entire scene where he goes to Canada and delivers a speech. I was told to remove Gurbani! The new CEO asked me, Is your film sensitive?. I asked him, Have you watched the film. He answered, No, but I am going to watch it. He added that hell watch the version with 85 cuts. I suggested that he see the uncut version. He replied, I am afraid. What if I like it?! Honey Trehan ended his woes by remarking, If somebody wants to make The Kashmir Files or The Kerala Story, aap banao.I have no problem; it's your freedom of speech. These films are getting released; why is our film stuck? The Kashmir Files, The Kerala Story, The Sabarmati Report, Emergency, Article 370 etc. released. How come there was no law and order during the release of these films? Sirf iss film mein kaise ho jaayegi ? If you were able to handle law and order in the states where these films were set, toh iss case mein bhi (handle kar ) lo.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], December 3 : Actor Manoj Bajpayee is set to return with 'Despatch', a gripping investigative crime thriller that will premiere on ZEE5 on December 13. Directed by Kanu Behl and produced by Ronnie Screwvala's RSVP Movies, the film follows the journey of Joy Bag, a crime journalist who gets caught in a dangerous investigation while chasing a breaking story.The film debuted at the MAMI Film Festival 2024 and was later showcased at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI). The trailer, released recently, shows Bajpayee's character, Joy Bag, navigating the murky world of media corruption and criminal underworld. His pursuit of uncovering a massive scam turns into a perilous journey as unknown threats mount against him. The trailer hints at a thrilling tale of truth versus survival.The story not only follows Bajpayee's character, Joy Bag, as he navigates a dangerous investigation but also explores his troubled marriage.Actor Shahana Goswami, who plays Manoj Bajpayee's wife in the upcoming crime thriller Despatch, opened up about her role in the film in a conversation with ANI. While speaking about her character, the actress said, "Dekhie kya hota hain na aise situations me ek kisi ka dor kaatna zaruri hojata hain kyuki dono taraf se jo ek pull and push hota hain na usme bhi uski ek adath pad jaati hain. Toh kahin ek moment hota hain ek mauka hota hain.kabhi kabhi koi zid me karleta hain. Abhi wo us makaam pe hain ki wo karega bhi nahin Puri tarah se jabtak ki dusri taraf pura settle na hojae. Toh kahin ek pull and push rhta hain toh I think wo uske khudke zindagi, Shweta ke lie zaroori tha."Director Kanu Behl, speaking about the inspiration for Despatch, said, "In 2016, I started thinking about the world of crime journalism. Incidents like the ones involving Gauri Lankesh disturbed me deeply. As a father of a five-year-old, I wondered what kind of world we are leaving behind for the next generation. My son's name is Duniya (world), and somewhere, this thought triggered the story. I felt this was something that needed to be talked about."Arrchita Agarwaal, who is also a part of the cast, shared her excitement about working with Bajpayee and director Behl. She said, "I feel very lucky that Manoj sir is part of this film. He has so much experience, but he created a space for me where I felt comfortable. With Kanu sir's guidance, I only had to learn. I started from zero, and everything I gained from this film was an achievement."Apart from Manoj Bajpayee in the lead role, the movie also features Shahana Goswami, Arrchita Agarwaal, and others in crucial roles.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], December 3 : Actor Manoj Bajpayee is back with another gripping story in 'Despatch', an investigative crime thriller which is set to release on ZEE5 on December 13. Directed by Kanu Behl and produced by Ronnie Screwvala's RSVP Movies, the film follows the journey of Joy Bag(played by Bajpayee), a crime journalist entangled in a dangerous investigation.The trailer, released on Tuesday, shows Bajpayee's character, Joy Bag, navigating the murky world of media corruption and criminal underworld. His pursuit of uncovering a massive scam turns into a perilous journey as unknown threats mount against him. In one of the scenes, Bajpayee appears in a naked, raw moment. Speaking to ANI about the scene, Bajpayee explained its importance to the story. "If it wasn't necessary, we wouldn't have included it. When you watch the film closely, you'll understand how this man, at this stage of his life, is spiraling backward despite his success. These aspects are not included to provoke or titillate the audience. We create films to tell stories, and certain actions or scenes feel essential to convey the depth of the story," he said. Talking about the director, Bajpayee described him as a passionate and fearless storyteller and said, "I got the craziest director in Kanu Behl. Not only did he write an incredible script, but his method of bringing it to life was equally mad. He threw us into the fire, and at one point, I thought we'd burn out. But he guided us through it," the actor shared.Check out the trailerView this post on InstagramA post shared by ZEE5 (@zee5)The film had its debut at the MAMI Film Festival 2024 and was later screened at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI). Apart from Manoj Bajpayee in the lead role, the movie also features Shahana Goswami, Arrchita Agarwaal, and others in pivotal roles.

Tarla' based on the life of famous chef Tarla Dalal will be having a direct OTT release.'Tarla' is directed by Piyush Gupta and produced by Ronnie Screwvala, Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, and Nitesh Tiwari.The film will be streaming on the OTT platform Zee5. The official release date is still awaited.On Friday, the OTT platform Zee5 announced an expansive line-up of titles featuring originals in Hindi and regional languages, sequels of cult-favourite series, big-ticket direct-to-digital releases, blockbuster post-theatrical launches and intriguing docu-series, at a star-studded event in Mumbai titled, 'Hooked to 5.'Bringing a bouquet of genres, the much-awaited line-up features sequels of prominent original series like 'Sunflower' Season 2, 'Taj: Reign of Revenge,' 'TVF's Humorously Yours S3' and 'Aam Aadmi Family S4,' 'The Kashmir Files Unreported,' 'Duranga S2,' 'Mithya S2,' 'The Broken News S2,' Guneet Monga's 'Gyarah Gyarah' (11:11), Sudhir Mishra's 'Crime Beat.'Direct to digital movies like 'Manoj Bajpayee's Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai' and 'Silence 2,' Pankaj Tripathi's 'Kadak Singh,' 'Huma Qureshi's Tarla,' Sunny Deol's post-theatrical 'Gadar 2'; and power-packed regional titles like 'Vetrimaaran' and Vijay Sethupathi's 'Viduthalai - Part 1, ' Arya's Kathar Basha Endra Muthuramalingam, Nagraj Manjule's Ghar Banduk Biryani, and more.Talking about the slate, Manish Kalra, Chief Business Officer, ZEE5 India said, "2023 holds a significant meaning for us, as we mark the fifth anniversary by presenting a carefully curated line-up featuring the best of talents from the entertainment industry across languages. ZEE5 clocked 100 bn+ streaming minutes in FY'23. This is a testament to the fact that we have grown exponentially by investing in creativity and innovation, enhancing viewing experiences and offering increased value to the viewers. Following the consumer-first philosophy, we are broadening the spectrum of content offerings with a diverse array of genres, formats, languages, and stories. As the platform of choice catering to a wide audience base, we will continue to focus on quality storytelling, & making it accessible across multiple touchpoints. The year has started on an encouraging note, and we are looking forward to audience response to the exciting slate of 111 new titles."Punit Misra, President - Content and International Markets, ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. said, "As we celebrate ZEE5 @5 and reflect upon why and who we exist for, we realize that today's youth celebrates life for its variables as opposed to its constants. They seek not to be bracketed with singular identities set in stone, but to be multi-dimensional and ever evolving. At ZEE5, it is our unwavering mission to stand shoulder to shoulder with our viewers on this path, celebrating their multi-dimensionality through stories that ignite their imagination, stoke their dreams, shape their beliefs and inspire their very being."

Sharing the video, "Remembering Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw on his 109th Birth Anniversary. Thank you for being born. #Sambhaadur in cinemas 1.12.2023."Helmed by Meghna Gulzar and produced by Ronnie Screwvala, 'Sam Bahadur' is the story of India's war hero and first Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw which also stars Sanya Malhotra and Fatima Sana Sheikh in the lead roles.The film is all set to hit the theatres on December 1, 2023.Talking about the film, Vicky said, "I am fortunate to portray the role of a real-life hero and patriot who is still remembered and loved for his contributions to our country. There is a lot to learn and take back as an actor. With the amount of prep and hard work the whole team has put in, I am sure the audiences will be thrilled to watch Sam's mesmerising journey to making India what it is today."Meanwhile, Vicky will be next seen in director Laxman Utekar's next romantic comedy film with Sara Ali Khan and in a yet-to-be-titled film alongside Triptii Dimri.The Vicky-starrer is a co-production of Prime Video with Dharma Productions and Leo Media Collective. It is touted to be an eclectic mix of drama, emotions and a dash of comedy.

Actor Pavail Gulati teasingly wrote on her post, "Nope, not liking this post." "Waah, Kya Scene Hai..." wrote a fan.View this post on InstagramA post shared by Rakul Singh (@rakulpreet)Rakul earlier posted pictures from her trekking in the snow-capped terrains of the country.Meanwhile, on the work front, Rakul was recently seen in 'Chhatriwali'.Produced by Ronnie Screwvala and directed by Tejas Prabha Vijay Deoskar', 'Chhatriwali' aims to drive home a strong social message on the importance of male contraceptives and safe sex.In a slice-of-life film set in Haryana, in 'Chhatriwali' Rakul is initially seen as shy and embarrassed about her job. She soon realises the importance of safe sex and then takes it upon herself to destigmatise the conversation around sex education.Without being too preachy, the film sets the tone and delivers the message with humour and sensitivity while ensuring the narrative is entertaining and family-friendly.The film also stars Sumeet Vyas, Satish Kaushik and Rajesh Tailang in the lead roles and is streaming on the OTT platform Zee5 from January 20.

In the picture, Vicky could be seen dressed up as Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw and sitting on a car bonnet, with director Meghna Gulzar standing in front of him.Helmed by Meghna Gulzar and produced by Ronnie Screwvala (RSVP), 'Sam Bahadur' is the story of India's war hero and first Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw which also stars Sanya Malhotra and Fatima Sana Sheikh in the lead roles.The film is all set to hit the theatres on December 1, 2023.Talking about the film, Vicky said, "I am fortunate to portray the role of a real-life hero and patriot who is still remembered and loved for his contributions to our country. There is a lot to learn and take back as an actor. With the amount of prep and hard work the whole team has put in, I am sure the audiences will be thrilled to watch Sam's mesmerising journey to making India what it is today."Meanwhile, Vicky will be next seen in director Laxman Utekar's next romantic comedy film with Sara Ali Khan and in a yet-to-be-titled film alongside Triptii Dimri.The Vicky-starrer is a co-production of Prime Video with Dharma Productions and Leo Media Collective. It is touted to be an eclectic mix of drama, emotions and a dash of comedy.

In the picture, covered with snow and ducked up in winter clothes. Rakul Preet and her girl gang posed for a selfie.Sharing the picture, she wrote, "Holiday begins with my: lovely ones. Northern lights here we come #finlanddiariesMeanwhile, on the work front, Rakul was recently seen in 'Chhatriwali'.Produced by Ronnie Screwvala and directed by Tejas Prabha Vijay Deoskar', 'Chhatriwali' aim to drive home a strong social message on the importance of male contraceptives and safe sex.A slice-of-life film set in Haryana, in 'Chhatriwali' Rakul is seen shy and embarrassed about her job initially, she soon realises the importance of safe sex and then takes it upon herself to destigmatise the conversation around sex education.Though she is shy and embarrassed about her job initially, she soon realises the importance of safe sex and then takes it upon herself to destigmatise the conversation around sex education.Without being too preachy, the film sets the tone and delivers the message with humour and sensitivity while ensuring that the narrative is entertaining and family-friendly.The film also stars Sumeet Vyas, Satish Kaushil and Rajesh Tailang in the lead roles and is streaming on the OTT platform Zee5 from January 20, 2023.

View this post on InstagramShared post on Timeembed youtube generatorThe makers of 'Sam Bahadur' are currently shooting for the last schedule of the film in Punjab.Helmed by Meghna and produced by Ronnie Screwvala (RSVP), 'Sam Bahadur' is the story of India's war hero and first Field Marshal, Sam Manekshaw featuring Vicky in the titular role and is all set to hit the theatres on December 1, 2023.Recently the makers of the film dropped a teaser of the film in which he was seen wearing a uniform and walking through his troops as they make way for his exit.The film also stars Sanya Malhotra and Fatima Sana Shaikh in the lead roles.Talking about the film, Vicky had earlier said, "I am fortunate to portray the role of a real-life hero and patriot who is still remembered and loved for his contributions to our country. There is a lot to learn and take back as an actor. With the amount of prep and hard work, the whole team has put in. I am sure the audiences will be thrilled to watch Sam's mesmerising journey to making India what it is today."

In the picture, team 'Sam Bahadur' could be seen posing with the Indian brave hearts.Director Meghna Gulzar also shared the same picture and captioned it, "Warmest wishes on the 75th Army Day to All Ranks from Team #SamBahadur." Helmed by Meghna and produced by Ronnie Screwvala (RSVP), 'Sam Bahadur' is the story of India's war hero and first Field Marshal, Sam Manekshaw featuring Vicky in the titular role and is all set to hit the theatres on December 1, 2023.Recently the makers of the film dropped a teaser of the film in which he was seen wearing a uniform and walking through his troops as they make way for his exit.Army Day is celebrated every year on January 15 to honour the soldiers of the country, who have set the greatest example of selfless service and brotherhood and more than anything the love for the country.In celebration of Army Day, the parade is organised every year at the Cariappa Parade Ground of Delhi Cantonment.On January 15, 1949, Field Marshal Kodandera M Cariappa, who was then a Lieutenant General, took over as the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army from General Sir Francis Butcher, the last British person to hold that post.