Mumbai, July 3 (IANS) Actress Shivangi Verma has shared how social media has played a significant role in her life and career, calling it a game-changer and blessing for artistes like her.

Known for her work in the show ‘Choti Sarrdaarni’, Shivangi said: “Social media plays a very important role in my life. It’s a game-changer. If used right, it can take someone from zero to 100 in terms of fame and recognition. For artistes like me, who might not have received the respect they deserve solely based on their talent, social media has been a blessing.”

“Initially, I was hesitant about it, but my mother encouraged me to showcase my work and personality online. As a result, things started working in my favour. I’ve been cast in significant projects through social media, such as the biggest music album of my career with Himesh Reshammiya and other projects in 2021,” she said.

The actress also said that she stays in touch with many influential casting directors and industry people through her social media platforms.

“However, I also understand the importance of setting boundaries. Too much of anything can be harmful. Social media can expose us to all kinds of people, both good and bad, and sometimes inappropriate content. But despite its downsides, I find social media to be the best thing.”

“Social media has enhanced my career significantly, adding more stars to it. Through social media, people have come to know me better and more deeply. Many of my casting opportunities have come directly from social media, and I believe it will continue to play a crucial role in my career growth,” she added.

On the algorithm changes and fluctuations in views on reels, Shivangi said that she takes social media seriously but does not get frustrated when her reels do not receive views. Instead, she works harder to improve her content and increase their circulation.

–IANS

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Mumbai, July 3 (IANS) Actors Neha Joshi and Himani Shivpuri have opened up on their enduring love for sarees and traditional attire, revealing the most precious possessions in their collections.

Neha and Himani shine in sarees that enhance their grace and charm, both on and off-screen.

Their wardrobes featuring luxurious Kanjeevarams and intricate Chikankari sarees reflect a deep connection with India’s rich textile heritage.

Neha, who plays Krishna Bihari Vajpayee in the show ‘Atal’, said: “Sarees have always held a special place in my wardrobe and heart. Recently, while promoting my show ‘Atal’ in Lucknow, I got myself one of the finest pieces of Chikankari cotton saree.”

“This exquisite saree, one of the most expensive in my collection, is a true testament to the artistry and heritage of Lucknow. Its delicate hand-embroidered patterns and soft cotton fabric felt like wearing a garment steeped in rich tradition. The saree is so special to me that I decided to keep it at my mother’s place in Nashik. As we both love to share our sarees, seeing her wear it brings me immense joy,” she added.

Himani, who plays Katori Amma in the sitcom ‘Happu Ki Ultan Paltan’, said: “The most precious possession in my collection of sarees is my red Banarasi saree which I purchased during a memorable visit to Varanasi. The rich, radiant silk and intricate zari work make each Banarasi saree a masterpiece.”

“Owning one is like having a piece of art, a celebration of our culture and the incredible craftsmanship passed down through generations. This Banarasi saree symbolises my deep respect for our country’s cultural richness and my love for traditional Indian attire,” added the senior actress.

–IANS

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Mumbai, July 3 (IANS) Actor Sai Ketan Rao was seen expressing his frustration over his ‘Bigg Boss OTT 3’ housemate Sana Makbul’s reaction to the newly appointed kitchen duties in the show.

Sai indulged in a candid conversation with housemate Sana Sultan wherein he ranted about a recent interaction with Sana regarding their kitchen duties.

The 29-year-old actor recalled how he requested Sana to come for her chopping duties on time. However, Sana felt offended by Sai’s comments on arriving on time.

An upset Sai said: “I just wanted her to understand the importance of being punctual, especially since cooking is her assigned duty. But she completely misunderstood my intention and got offended.”

Sai, who quit his corporate job to pursue a career in acting, made his debut with ‘Agni Sakshi’ but gained recognition with his work in the show ‘Mehndi Hai Rachne Waali’.

He was then seen in ‘Chashni’, while his work in ‘Imlie’ helped him gain major stardom.

Apart from television, the actor has worked in Hindi and Telugu web series such as ‘Three Half Bottles’, ‘Beyond Breakup’, ‘Love Studio’, ‘Lovely’, ‘Aham Bhramhasmi’, ‘The Baker and The Beauty’.

‘Bigg Boss OTT 3’ airs on Jiocinema Premium.

–IANS

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Mumbai, July 3 (IANS) Actress Shweta Tripathi Sharma, who is gearing up for the third season of the popular crime thriller series ‘Mirzapur’, feels the show helped her become a better human being.

One could debate how such a violent and dark show can make someone a better person, but hear Shweta out.

The actress told IANS that the show taught her not to judge characters and broadly, people.

She said that people are fighting many untold battles so before judging someone, we should factor in the possibilities of the ongoing battles in their lives.

‘Mirzapur’, which debuted on Prime Video in 2018, is set to return with its third season on July 5.

“There has been a lot of growth for me as an actor in these six years. There are many things about ‘Golu’ that I, as Shweta, might not be okay or comfortable with, but the director has imagined the character in a certain way. As actors, it’s our duty to serve the story and do justice to the character,” she said.

“‘Mirzapur’ has taught me not to judge characters. So, in that sense, I have become a better person. We might dismiss someone for their actions, but we seldom try to understand the reasons behind their actions,” she said.

–IANS

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Mumbai, July 3 (IANS) Actress Sumbul Touqeer expressed gratitude as her show ‘Kavya – Ek Jazbaa, Ek Junoon’ has completed 200 episodes and said this means a lot, especially looking at how uncertain and unpredictable the television industry has become.

Sumbul said she is grateful for all the love the audience has given the show and her character, Kavya.

“It feels so good. Completing 200 episodes is a big achievement. This shows that all our hard work is paying off, and I am grateful to the audience for loving and supporting us on this journey. This means a lot, especially looking at how uncertain and unpredictable the television industry has become. So I am truly honoured, and it feels like a big celebratory moment,” she said.

Sumbul shared: “I am sure the audience will love the upcoming episodes too, and before we know it, we will be done with 2,000 episodes and more.”

Speaking about her fun chemistry with co-star Mishkat Varma, Sumbul shared, “He is very helpful and very supportive. The only thing that I find annoying about him is that he forgets things (laughs). But we have come a long way, and I am grateful for this opportunity and his friendship.”

“We often make dance reels, which makes our work more fun. He is a great guy, and it is so good to share the screen with him,” she added.

Regarding the challenges she faced in portraying her character, Sumbul said: “To be honest, in reality, I am a very chill, happy-go-lucky person, but if you see, Kavya is someone who is always very focused, very serious, and strict with her work and career. She is the opposite of me, so that poses a challenge sometimes, but it’s been 200 episodes now, and I have learned so much from her. I feel truly blessed to be able to play this role.”

The actress also believes that the character resonates well with the audience, as women today are very career-oriented and focused.

“I feel that women are more focused on their careers and education now. And when they see Kavya managing everything, including her career, professional life, and personal life, they relate to her and get inspired by her,” Sumbul concluded.

The show airs on Sony.

–IANS

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