'Concert For Hope – Sarod Concerto Samaagam' Digital Premiere on Sarod Records A Promenade Concert Featuring Sarod Maestros Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Sons Amaan Ali Bangash and Ayaan Ali Bangash to premiere on 30th April

In a bid to entertain the masses during an extended lockdown, courtesy to the COVID-19, Sarod Maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan and his sons Ustad Amaan Ali Bangash and Ustad Ayaan Ali Bangash are all set to premiere a live concert they've conducted earlier! Titled 'Concert For Hope – Sarod Concerto Samaagam', the stellar performance held at the prestigious Victoria Hall in Singapore was conducted by Tsung Yeh along with the Singapore Chinese Orchestra,

Delving into the proceedings of the concert in a tête-à-tête with the members of the illustrious Khan-Bangash family, Padma Vibhushan Ustad Amjad Ali Khan imparts that Samaagam, derived from sanskrit, actually means confluence or the act of flowing together. 'Concert For Hope' has been organized with an aim to preserve the essence of both Indian and Western traditions to flow into each other with no artistic compromises... “Every raga has a soul and every musical note is the sound of God. In Samaagam 12 different ragas are presented. Some will make only a fleeting appearance; others will be explored for longer.”

“The aim is through this process to joyfully explore the common musical 'DNA' of both traditions. In an interesting fusion, of course,” says Ayaan Ali Bangash.

“We have used the orchestration of Indian ensemble music in the pre-Bollywood era as inspiration and have also looked back to the ancient Western tradition incorporating elements which, because of their antiquity, do not violate the rules of Indian music,” says Amaan Ali Bangash.

The 'Concert For Hope – Sarod Concerto Samaagam' is all set for a worldwide premiere on the official YouTube channel of Sarod Records on 30th April, 2020. Don't forget to tune in for a truly musical promenade concert.

Shahroz Ali Khan brings back to life blockbuster Mareez-E-Ishq

After delivering critical hit's like Mushkil – Fear Behind You starring Rajniesh Duggall, Kunaal Roy Kapoor, Nazia Hussain, Pooja Bisht, Shafaq Naaz and Archana Shastry in pivotial roles, Producer Shahroz Ali Khan is back with his next avant garde project... a sensational music video and the reloaded version of Mareez-E-Ishq. The song was the Original Soundtrack for 2014's film Zid and it was sung by Arijit Singh.

Voiced by Shaarib Sabri of Maahi fame (Raaz: The Mystery Continues) and Shaarib-Toshi duo, Mareez-E-Ishq was shot in the scenic locales of Italy and Austria! The song features Neha Rana, a fresh face of the entertainment industry, and is directed by Aman Prajapat, a man who has already delivered hits like Yaad Kar Ke, Milo Na Tum among others.

Producer Shahroz Ali Khan was in awe with the ideation of the recreation! He made up his mind on the locations according to the two different stories the music video offers! Having made no compromises in the production quality, the talented team behind the recreated Mareez-E-Ishq present to you, a track worthy to be played on repeat, this quarantine!

YouTube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PFlkgTR1uwI

Despite lockdown shutdown, Patiala Babes' producers pay stipend to workers and creative team till lockdown ends

Patiala Babes, Katha Kottage's women empowerment show on Sony TV, which also spoke of feminist men, has emerged to be the most recent casualty of COVID-19. The show has been discontinued this week.

Writer-Producer Rajita Sharma, while expressing her sadness and trauma on the story "remaining unfinished and untold" adds that "it was encouraging that Sony gave us a platform to bring to life our very bold narrative. Since the whole world is under siege, these times call for some unfortunate but necessary measures. Patiala Babes will always remain close to our heart."

The makers, however, believe in  the concept of lighting lives despite darkness. "Sony was kind to entrust us at Katha Kottage with the show. The pandemic seems to be preparing for a long haul and as the show is shut, our workers are jobless." Vivek Budakoti and Rajita Sharma aver that sharing is caring. "We have decided to share whatever little profit we earned with our fellow workers who made us what we are as a production house." Hence, the daily wage workers including light men, spot boys, setting workers, sound assistants, assistant directors, production assistants and the creative team will be given a regular fixed stipend every month till such time the lockdown is in effect. "This is our commitment and support to our colleagues and will be on for as much time it takes for the industry to resume shoot."

Considering that Patiala Babes is the story of a daughter being the wind beneath her mother's wings, it sure looks like this production house is taking a leaf from its own creation and paying it forward.

Celebs Pledge Their Support To A Gesture Of Love Spreading the message of love during these troubled times – A Nisha Haraale Initiative

As the rampant COVID-19 spread across the world, India has had to brace itself for a severe impact on its public health in general as well as the economy. During these trying times, we have Nisha Haraale spreading the message of peace, love and harmony.

Roping in Ashmit Patel, Mugdha Godse, Terence Lewis, Shibani Kashyap, Suchitra Pillai, Manasi Scott, Sandhya Shetty, Deepti Gujral, Anusha Srinivasan Iyer, Vicky Idnani, Kishori Shahane, Aanchal Kumar, Candice Pinto, Tina Singh, Kunal Thakur, Diandra Soares, Shawar Ali, Shakir, Aziz, Zulfi Sayed, Sid Kher and Anaida among many other celebrities and dignitaries from her friend circle, Nisha Haraale aims to showcase hearts; the symbol of love, across social media. “Be it a painting of a heart, or your heart shaped pillow at home, or the heart print tshirt, or just the heart symbol with your own hands. Take a picture of yourself with the symbol and share it across social media at 5pm this Sunday!”

With the intent to spread the message of love, unity, oneness and peace, Nisha Haraale asks you to do this from home, keeping in mind the social distancing rules. “Love goes a long way. In the end, it doesn't matter who we are and where do we come from. What matters is that we stand together in love, peace, unity and oneness. That is exactly what we are showing on Sunday at 5pm and passing tons of love. The world heals with love,” signs off Nisha.

Rahul Kanal & Hindustani Bhau Help Feed Strays

In a first for Politician-Philanthropist Rahul Kanal, President of 'I Love Mumbai' Foundation, and social media sensation and Big Boss 13 contestant Hindustani Bhau, have come forward to help the stray canines, felines and birds across Mumbai.  

Rahul Kanal along with Hindustani Bhau, solved the food crisis for an NGO Vice President Sham Ghorpade stated within two hours of intimation. Expressing their gratitude, the NGO spokesperson said, “I am grateful to Bandra rock star Rahul Kanal ji and your team coming down and helping me out at this hour. In 2 hours notice you sorted the entire provision needful for 500+ furry babies in this lockdown. Thank you from the bottom of my heart and on behalf of furries every where from Mahim, Bandra till Meera road. With loads of cuddles and wags along with swishes of tails.”

Trustee Sham Ghorpade of Animal Rescue and Care Managing, that looks after feeding area of from Bandra till Kandivali said, “We are grateful to Rahul Kanal and Hindustani Bhau for their support in feeding the stray animals during the nationwide lockdown. Appreciate it,” while Utkarsha Naik of Animal Rescue and Care, with the help of Rahul and Bhau, will be taking care of over a hundred dogs and cats.

“Our NGO is feeding strays and people in need, while also providing medicines if and when required,” says Rahul Kanal. “Let us not forget the poor innocent people, migrant workers, stray animals and birds. They are left all by themselves on these empty streets,” he adds.

Amid Lockdown Blues, Baiju Mangeshkar Releases A 1967 English Classic Recreated At Home

Song Link: https://youtu.be/75f_xko1KbQ

From the critical acclaim for his debut Sufi album 'Ya Rabba' with Lata Mangeshkar as a singer/composer to the soulful singles ‘Kitida' & ‘Ya Nadichya Paar’ and a few more Baiju Mangeshkar has come a long way as a soulful singer. In a first-of-a-kind virtual music collaboration, he is back with the cover of Burt Bacharach & Hal David's 'A House Is Not A Home'.

As the government extends the nationwide lockdown till May 3 due to COVID-19, Baiju Mangeshkar conceptualised a virtual musical collaboration with musician Shivansh Kapil.

“This is a non profit initiative in support of the Covid-19 #stayhome #lockdown. This is not a mere experimental collaboration but a professionally crafted and executed musical work carried out despite the odds, with the marvels of modern technology in absolute isolation!” he avers.

Baiju has also lent his voice to a few Marathi films and television serial. He dedicates this music video as a small contribution to all those on the frontline risking their lives for others. “We hope this can also motivate everyone to continue with their respective work if possible and utilise this time on hand positively,” feels Baiju.

When quizzed on why an English song, Baiju says, "This is a world pandemic and English is more or less a universal
language today. The world needs to come together to conquer this battle thus an english song. Besides, I was raised with World Music, along with Hindustani Music shaping my sensibilities. I love this particular song and the poignant words resonate with me in this difficult period for us all!"

A talented young musician from the A R Rahman academy, Shivansh Kapil is trained in Hindustani classical as well Western music. He is a pianist and music arranger who has worked on several projects in the South and Marathi films and is currently occupied with Bollywood assignments.

For the uninitiated, Baiju Mangeshkar is the nephew of Lata Mangeshkar and the son of Hridaynath Mangeshkar. His last album had him compose and sing Sufiyana duets with the Nightingale titled 'Ya Rabba'.

Amid Lockdown Blues, Baiju Mangeshkar Releases A 1967 English Classic Recreated At Home

Song Link: https://youtu.be/75f_xko1KbQ

From the critical acclaim for his debut Sufi album 'Ya Rabba' with Lata Mangeshkar as a singer/composer to the soulful singles ‘Kitida' & ‘Ya Nadichya Paar’ and a few more Baiju Mangeshkar has come a long way as a soulful singer. In a first-of-a-kind virtual music collaboration, he is back with the cover of Burt Bacharach & Hal David's 'A House Is Not A Home'.

As the government extends the nationwide lockdown till May 3 due to COVID-19, Baiju Mangeshkar conceptualised a virtual musical collaboration with musician Shivansh Kapil.

“This is a non profit initiative in support of the Covid-19 #stayhome #lockdown. This is not a mere experimental collaboration but a professionally crafted and executed musical work carried out despite the odds, with the marvels of modern technology in absolute isolation!” he avers.

Baiju has also lent his voice to a few Marathi films and television serial. He dedicates this music video as a small contribution to all those on the frontline risking their lives for others. “We hope this can also motivate everyone to continue with their respective work if possible and utilise this time on hand positively,” feels Baiju.

When quizzed on why an English song, Baiju says, "This is a world pandemic and English is more or less a universal
language today. The world needs to come together to conquer this battle thus an english song. Besides, I was raised with World Music, along with Hindustani Music shaping my sensibilities. I love this particular song and the poignant words resonate with me in this difficult period for us all!"

A talented young musician from the A R Rahman academy, Shivansh Kapil is trained in Hindustani classical as well Western music. He is a pianist and music arranger who has worked on several projects in the South and Marathi films and is currently occupied with Bollywood assignments.

For the uninitiated, Baiju Mangeshkar is the nephew of Lata Mangeshkar and the son of Hridaynath Mangeshkar. His last album had him compose and sing Sufiyana duets with the Nightingale titled 'Ya Rabba'.

Mumbai teen Abishek Avarsekar raises funds to feed150 families in the Alibaug, Murud and Roha

They say the youth is the hope of our future, and the pandemic the world is currently weathering, has realised this by bringing out the best in many of our country’s youngsters.

One such 15-year-old that has lead by example, is Mumbai-based Abishek Avarsekar- a 10th grade student of Hill Spring International School. Realising the helplessness of daily wage workers in the 21-day lockdown imposed in India, Abishek set out to raise funds to equip them and their families with food and basic necessities needed to fight off the virus.

In order to achieve his goal, he tied up with the Centre For Transforming India (CFTI) to provide 150 families in the Alibaug, Murud and Roha region of Raigad, with 5 kgs of rice, 3 kgs of wheat, 1 kg of dal, 1 kg of oil, 1 kg of salt, 200g of spices, 4 face masks, and 1 hand wash and sanitizer each, to help them tide over till the end of the announced lockdown.

Abishek’s determination has lead him to raise Rs 1,53,000 for his cause so far, and the number keeps increasing. One can only hope that others are inspired by his empathy and willpower, to follow in his footsteps, and do their little bit to contribute to their community.

Will Sudesh Bhosale will be the voice of Akshay Kumar!

Veteran playback singer Sudesh Bhosale, who is not only an amazing singer, but also a very talented mimicry artist, has a special skillset with him. Apart from imitating the voices, this master mimic can also sing in their voices.

Best known as the voice of Amitabh Bachchan, Sudesh Bhosle had an unusual request recently, at an online concert to support the PMCares Funds. The request came from host Akshay Kumar, who after welcoming Sudesh Bhosale on the show, spoke of how Sudesh has been the voice of a number of superstars and requested him to speak in the voice of his father-in-law Rajesh Khanna.

Sudesh first belted out popular Shava Shava from the Bachchan starrer Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. Post that, the Czar of Impromptu Performance weaved the Rajesh Khanna voice to be part of concert warming people of Corona asking them to stay home! Going with the flow, Sudesh also mimicked the voices of Sanjeev Kumar, Anil Kapoor among other artists.  Incidentally, Sudesh is also known to have been the voice for over 14 popular actors including Ashok Kumar (Dadamuni), Amitabh Bachchan, Vinod Khanna, Sunil Dutt and Sanjeev Kumar among others! He is also the voice behind Rang Barse, Jumma Chumma, Shava Shava, Makhna and many other hit songs of the Amitabh Bachchan.

An overwhelmed Akshay Kumar averred, “Kya baat hai. Sudeshji you are incredible!

Will it be Sudesh Bhosle for Akshay Kumar next! Watch this space...

Video Link: https://we.tl/t-nf5Z11yPXw

Supported By Lata Mangeshkar, ISRA’s Sangeet Setu Virtual Concert With Asha Bhosle, Sudesh Bhosale, Sonu Nigam & Others Enjoys Viewership Of Over 12 Crores; Trends Across Social Media With Reach Of Over 45 Crore Users

Having won hearts the world over with Sangeet Setu, a series of virtual concerts by 18 Indian artists, fans and netizens were bedazzled in the middle of the 21-day lockdown! Aired across various portals, the concert witnessed an enthusiastic audience of over 5.6 crore viewers on the first day and over 6.5 crore viewers on the second day! The concert has been organized and conceptualized by the Indian Singers Rights Association (ISRA) to support PMCares Funds against COVID-19.

Hosted by superstar Akshay Kumar, Sangeet Setu saw an opening act by the legendary singer Asha Bhosle with her melodious voice winning hearts across the globe.

Veteran playback singer Sudesh Bhosale, who was also a part of the Sangeet Setu virtual concert along with Asha Bhosle, S.P. Balasubramanian, Udit Narayan, Kumar Sanu, Hariharan, K.J. Yesudas, Sonu Nigam, Suresh Wadkar, Kailash Kher, Salim Merchant, Shankar Mahadevan, Anup Jalota, Kavita Krishnamurthy, Alka Yagnik, Pankaj Udhas, Shaan and Talat Aziz was available for a comment. “It is always a pleasure to perform for everyone in India on a unified platform. Some of the biggest names of the Indian music industry were roped in,” said Sudesh Bhosale.

On behalf of ISRA, CEO Sanjay Tandon said "ISRA decided that leading Singers of the Country will entertain the masses and try to lighten their stress, strain and depression and I Thank all the Artists who have made themselves available for this National Service. I would also like to thank MPC and XP&D Be.live to have partnered with us in this effort."

Narendra Modi, Honourable Prime Minister of India, expressed his happiness at this initiative when he tweeted, “Excellent gesture! Kudos to the artists for coming together for this. It would be a treat to listen.” After the Day 1 of the enthralling virtual concert, he tweeted, “Seeing such wonderful performances will make you happy. Do watch it tomorrow and the day after if you can.”

More power to ISRA and the Indian music industry who stand united in these trying times!

Starting Tonight, With Lata Mangeshkar's Blessings, Asha Bhosle, Sudesh Bhosale, Sonu Nigam & Others To Perform Live In Sangeet Setu; ISRA’s Virtual Concert In Support of PMCares Fund for COVID-19 , Watch Out For Sangeet Setu on 10, 11 & 12 April, 8-9 pm everyday

Sangeet Setu, a series of virtual concerts by 18 Indian artists, is all set to bedazzle Indian citizens and fans under the necessary 21-day lockdown! To be aired across portals from April 10-12, 8-9 pm, Sangeet Setu has been organized and conceptualized by the Indian Singers Rights Association (ISRA), to support PMCares Funds against COVID-19.

Bharat Ratna Lata Mangeshkar took to Twitter in support of the PMCares Sangeet Setu online concert. She wrote, “Through our singers' association @ISRACopyright, we are presenting Sangeet Setu music program. I wish them all the best and I hope you enjoy this program” as Sangeet Setu’s official twitter handle (@SangeetSetu_IN) retweeted the Queen of Melody’s tweet with a comment, “We thank the legend of Indian music @mangeshkarlata for her blessings and her good wishes on the onset of the programme.”

Veteran playback singer Sudesh Bhosale, who is also a part of the Sangeet Setu virtual concert, averred, “It is indeed a pleasure to be a part of Sangeet Setu, ISRA’s virtual concert in support of PMCares Funds against the life-threatening Coronavirus. Hope people continue donating to our Hon’ble Prime Minister’s PMCares fund.” He is reportedly excited for this new format of performing. “Some of the biggest names of the Indian music industry including Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle, S.P. Balasubramanian, Udit Narayan, Kumar Sanu, Hariharan, K.J. Yesudas, Sonu Nigam, Suresh Wadkar, Kailash Kher, Salim Merchant, Shankar Mahadevan, Anup Jalota, Kavita Krishnamurthy, Alka Yagnik, Pankaj Udhas, Shaan and Talat Aziz among others, have been roped in,” he added.

Legendary singer Sonu Nigam showcased his support, taking to Instagram with the following statement, "Nothing is more prestigious than singing for a cause. I feel honoured to attend, shoulder to shoulder, with my fellow artists, in the contribution to @sangeetsetu.in and laud the efforts of ISRA. #IndiaFightsCorona #SangeetSetu #PMCARESFund"

Kailash Kher tweeted, “Join 18 artists as we come together to support #PMCaresFund. Watch #ISRA initiative #SangeetSetu live from 10th - 12th April on major OTT and D2H platforms, 8-9 PM. Join us, sing with us. #IndiaFightsCorona @PMOIndia @narendramodi”

Singer-Composer Shankar Mahadevan of the Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy composer trio tweeted, “It feels wonderful to stand as a 'sepoy' of music as #IndiaFightsCorona. History gives us an example of music uniting the souls in their times of darkest despair. I applaud the efforts of @isracopyright for organizing @SangeetSetu_IN."

Versatile playback singer Shaan tweeted, “Music transcends all barriers, even during the darkest times. I thank @isracopyright for letting me be a part of @SangeetSetu_IN, for letting my small contribution matter in #IndiaFightsCorona #SangeetSetu #PMCARESFund”

Acclaimed composer Salim Merchant of the famous Salim-Sulaiman duo, tweeted, “Music is universal & has no boundaries. It is indeed a rare honour to stand as a soldier of melody for my country as #IndiaFightsCorona. @isracopyright is sincerely to be thanked for organising @SangeetSetu_IN #sangeetsetu #PMCARESFund”

Popular Ghazal singer Talat Aziz took to Twitter, “It is an emotional moment for me to unite with my fellow artists as #IndiaFightsCorona. I, as a humble student of music, feel certainly privileged to be a part of @SangeetSetu_IN organised by @isracopyright #SangeetSetu #PMCaresFund”

Veteran playback singer Kavita Krishnamurthy tweeted, “Music is God, God is music. Nothing more pleasing than to be a part of #IndiaFightsCorona. We stand united and thank the efforts of @Iisracopyright for organising @SangeetSetu_IN #SangeetSetu #PMCARESFund”

On behalf of ISRA, CEO Sanjay Tandon said, “ISRA decided that leading singers of the country will entertain the masses and try to lighten their stress, strain and depression and I thank all the artists who have made themselves available for this national service. I would also like to thank MPC and XP&D Be.live to have partnered with us in this effort.”

Sangeet Setu will be available on 10, 11 and 12 April, daily 8-9 pm, across OTT platforms including JioTV, MX Player, Vodafone Play, Idea TV, Hotstar and Tata Sky, Digital portals including Hungama, PayTM, Flipkart, Hello and Daily Hunt. It will also be available Direct to Home (D2H) with Dish TV and Tata Sky. Doordarshan will also be airing Sangeet Setu to support PMCares Funds against COVID-19.

Narendra Modi, Honourable Prime Minister of India expressed his happiness at this initiative when he tweeted, “Excellent gesture! Kudos to the artists for coming together for this. It would be a treat to listen.”

Urvashi Sharma’s Tryst With Quarantine; Takes up Craft Making For Charity

Coronavirus has taken centre-stage in the lives of all humans around the world. And in the wake of the 21-day nationwide lockdown in India, most people are rediscovering themselves, doing things they otherwise would not have had the time for! Needless to say, our B-town celebrities are no exception to this rule! While some are using this break to spend quality time with family and are focusing on fitness, household chores, others are pursuing old hobbies or even taking up new ones!

Owing to the lockdown, the charismatic actor-model Urvashi Sharma, known for her stint in films like Naqaab, Baabarr, Khatta Meetha, Chakradhaar among others and for her elegant appearance in songs like Atif Aslam’s ‘Doorie’ and Mika's ‘Something Something’ has also taken up a new passion, of that of candle-making and embroidery. “Lately, I’ve taken up on candle and flower making, embroidery, knitting and beading work. I have also been painting besides spending quality time with my children. All in all, it’s been a very productive quarantine!” says Urvashi.

Married to acclaimed actor-entrepreneur Sachiin J. Joshi who is currently stuck in Dubai, the couple have two beautiful kids, a daughter named Samaira and a son named Shivansh. “Creativity is my passion. I don’t do anything ordinary… Every corner of our lovely home has a special touch by me,” enthuses Urvashi Sharma whose hands are currently full with a detailed embroidery work on Lord Shiva that she is focusing on. “I take about 2-3 weeks to make one,” she avers, having, earlier, created embroidered work on Sai Baba, Hanuman, Lord Ganesha, Jesus, Mother Mary and baby Jesus.

One can also see the Maa Kali, Shiva and Parvati painted on stones at Urvashi and Sachiin’s lavish home. “I love art and crafts and I find time to do it every day. I'll be selling these to raise funds for our Big Brother Foundation,” expresses Urvashi. Set up in 2012 as a not-for-profit initiative, Big Brother Foundation is the passionate endeavour of the visionary couple Urvashi Sharma-Sachiin J. Joshi, for empowering underprivileged children and women in rural India. Recently, the foundation has been in the news for conducting nationwide food distribution drives and helping the people in need during these tough times.

For a lot of people, quarantine is a forced break but to Urvashi Sharma, “It is the best time for me to do all of it. We always find time for the things that we are passionate about,” signs off Urvashi. 

Actor-entrepreneur Sachiin J. Joshi Offers his Hotel Beatle to BMC as Quarantine Facility For Travellers

Self-isolation and self-quarantine has become the need of the hour as the rampant and virulent Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) affects thousands of people in India and lakhs abroad. With India is going through a 21-day lockdown, its citizens have proved that humanity still exists! Like the Tatas, Viiking Group’s CMD, and acclaimed actor-entrepreneur Sachiin J. Joshi is also stepping up and doing his bit!

Sachiin J. Joshi, who is also the driving force behind the Big Brother Foundation, has offered Beatle Hotel in Powai to the BMC to quarantine COVID-19 patients coming from abroad! Beatle Hotel is a 36-room boutique hotel located in the heart of Powai.

When contacted Sachiin J. Joshi, who is stranded in Dubai, said, “Mumbai being a densely populated city, there are not enough hospitals and beds to take measures to save our city. When the BMC approached us for help, we voluntarily agreed to help.” The actor-entrepreneur, who was last seen in Amavas opposite Nargis Fakhri and Mona Singh, has also starred in numerous films including his Bollywood debut with Aazaan, Jackpot opposite Sunny Leone, Veerappan opposite Lisa Ray and Usha Jadhav among others films. “We’ve converted our hotel with the BMC’s help into a quarantine facility for travellers,” he added.

The BMC has taken precaution measures seriously, having issued guidelines for quarantine including special doctors and nurses assigned for regular check-up. “The entire building and rooms get sanitized regularly with staff equipped with the necessary gear.”

Considering it a citizen’s duty to help fight the virus, Sachiin believes that it is not just Mumbai or Maharashtra. It is not just India as well. It is the Coronavirus against the world. Keeping the government workers and the poor people in mind, his Big Brother Foundation has been distributing food boxes to the people in need. The foundation will do so till the end of the quarantine period!

“I'm glad that our hotel in Powai ‘The Beatle’ has been given to the BMC for quarantining people. It's my husband's decision and I respect and support it,” expressed actor Urvashi Sharma of Naqaab fame and Sachiin J Joshi's better half. “We have been distributing food from our hotel to all officials and people stuck on the road. Our team has been selflessly doing it for almost two weeks now and will continue to give our support till we can."  

Amid COVID-19 Lockdown, CINTAA strives For Donations For Members Under Financial Distress

With India is going through a 21-day lockdown, the film and TV artists have lost their livelihood. The Cine And TV Artistes' Association, an autonomous body registered under the Indian Trade Union Act, has appealed to the masses and to it’s A-lister members for help with donating rations and funds.
“Since CINTAA has a very limited corpus, we are not a cash-rich association. Our charitable sister trust, the Cine Artist Welfare Trust (CAWT) is also running out of funds,” said actor Amit Behl, Senior Joint Secretary & Chairperson Outreach Committee CINTAA, adding “We have appealed all our members and A-listers to start helping us by donating ration and some funds. We have also circulated the account number and IFSC of Cine Artist Welfare Trust giving them the benefit of 80G certificate.”

The responses have already started pouring in. We have learnt that many of CINTAA's senior & well-established actors are also sending their appeal videos. Apart from members, A-listers and the masses, CINTAA has also approached the I & B Ministry and the Government of Maharashtra, urging them to request the broadcasters to release payments in times of crisis. “Generally, there is a 90-120 day cycle where payments are cleared,” said Behl. 

From CINTAA’s own corpus, the association has pledged to help their members in need. They have been making and distributing ration packets. Also, Rs. 2000/- per member based on the actual needs is also being compensated. “The start has happened. We are also trying our best to help our members,” affirmed Behl.

Covid-19: Sachiin J. Joshi, stranded in Dubai, to spend over 3 crore on food boxes to needy Pan-India through Big Brother Foundation, service to continue through lockdown

In the wake of the 21-day lockdown, Actor-Entrepreneur Sachiin J. Joshi pledges his support to the Government’s employees and social workers who are at the forefront of action to serve humanity. With Big Brother Foundation as his passion project, Sachiin decided to provide warm, nutritious meals to active police men and municipal workers.

So who are the people the Big Brother Foundation is catering to? “The police patrolling the city, the doctors, nurses and paramedics at the hospitals, the municipal workers ensuring timely supply of essentials and 24*7 water supply, the traffic police force along with the other forces who ensure that the lockdown is strictly adhered to,” says Sachiin J.Joshi. "The Collector office or police inform us  about the area they need food at, on the same day an hour prior and as per requirements and we do the needful," elaborates a Big Brother team member.

Sachiin J. Joshi who is stuck in Dubai since the lockdown and is coordinating workings of the foundation from there, elaborates, "My team of managers in India are working as per my instructions. My hotel’s chefs are getting the much-needed help in preparing food from our factory’s labour force. They’re equipped with all the essential safety gear. We’re trying to do our best, especially for the people battling hunger since days and walking back home because there is no mode of transportation. The sad part is that the smaller towns and villages of Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Gujarat and NCR-Delhi are unable to get the necessary ration. We are helping them too."

Adds Urvashi Sharma, Sachiin J. Joshi's better half who is supervising the operations from home terrain, “I’m in India and in touch with everyone on a daily basis to help monitor the proceedings. My husband and our entire team is working selflessly to do our best! It is important to be humane and compassionate during such testing times. We need to set an example for our coming generations. 

Set up in 2012 as a not for profit initiative, Big Brother Foundation is the passionate endeavour of social visionary Sachiin J. Joshi, for empowering underprivileged children and women in rural India. The total cost estimated for the entire exercise during the lockdown could go up to Rs. 3 crores. "We are planning to do it for all the 21 days of lockdown. While people prefer donations, I would like to help hands-on," wraps up Sachiin J. Joshi.