Entertainment

A global sensation fuelled by diaspora’s enthusiasm

Published

3 years ago

October 14, 2023

Staff Reporter

Spread the love

[ad_1]

Punjab [India], October 14 (ANI): In the realm of cinema, where linguistic borders are increasingly fading into insignificance, the unexpected success of the Punjabi film ‘Mastaney’ in Seoul, South Korea, in September sent ripples across the industry. The burning question was whether the Korean audience had suddenly developed an affinity for Punjabi language movies. The answer, however, is a testament to the enduring influence of the Punjabi diaspora, Khalsa Vox reported.

Punjabi cinema has been steadily making inroads into international markets for a while now. It all commenced with cinematographer-turned-filmmaker Manmohan Singh’s groundbreaking film ‘Jee Aayan Nu.’ This cinematic masterpiece showcased a Punjab far removed from the stereotypical portrayal of rustic villages, horses, and bandits. Instead, it presented a Punjab with opulent farmhouses, complete with swimming pools and modern luxury, which resonated deeply with viewers, especially those residing abroad, according to Khalsa Vox.

Khalsa Vox is a new-age online digest that brings to you the latest in Punjab politics, history, culture, heritage and more.

The adept direction of Manmohan Singh and the novel approach in ‘Jee Aayan Nu’ significantly contributed to its worldwide triumph. Prolific actor Gurpreet Ghuggi, a notable figure in ‘Mastaney,’ recollects how this film shattered stereotypes and struck a chord with international audiences.

Munish Sahni, a distributor and producer of several successful Punjabi films, underscores the noteworthy surge in overseas demand for Punjabi cinema. ‘Mastaney,’ for instance, gained popularity in South Korea and Africa, thanks to the widespread presence of the Punjabi diaspora. This trend is also evident in established markets like Canada and Australia, as well as emerging markets.

Deepa Rai, a UK-based film director, highlights the increasing number of cities in the UK where Punjabi films are being screened, signifying a growing market. Sharan Art, the director of ‘Mastaney,’ reveals that the overseas market consistently accounts for 60 per cent of the industry’s success in contrast to the domestic market. The triumphant release of ‘Carry on Jatta 3’ in 30 countries, including Spain with Spanish subtitles, illustrates the global allure of Punjabi cinema.

Nonetheless, it’s crucial to acknowledge that the overseas success of Punjabi cinema is fundamentally propelled by Punjabi communities. Daljit Thind, a prominent Punjabi film producer, notes that except for occasional non-Indian, non-Punjabi viewers, the audience is predominantly Punjabi. Punjabi cinema holds particular significance in Canada, often surpassing Bollywood. Rai points out that only big-budget films featuring bankable actors like Diljit Dosanjh, Gippy Grewal, Amrinder Gill, and Ammy Virk secure theatrical releases abroad.

Munish Sahni contends that what works in India also resonates with international audiences because “audiences are universal.” While Deepa Rai suggests that ‘Mastaney’ struck a chord due to its Sikh culture-specific theme, Sahni counters that this year’s major Punjabi films are diverse, underscoring their universal appeal.

Religious subjects have also found resonance abroad. Harry Baweja’s ‘Chaar Sahibzaade,’ which portrayed the sacrifices of Guru Gobind Singh’s sons, garnered significant acclaim. Baweja believes that approaching religious themes objectively can yield remarkable results. Behind the triumph of ‘Mastaney’ lies not only its grand scale but also its portrayal of a lesser-known historical facet, a formula that continues to captivate audiences, as reported by Khalsa Vox.

The cornerstone of Punjabi cinema’s enduring global success is its commitment to quality. Producers are thinking innovatively and expanding into uncharted territories. Dubbing Punjabi films in foreign languages is one approach that broadens the potential viewership. However, maintaining a consistent stream of Punjabi content is equally pivotal in establishing Punjabi cinema as a regular choice for audiences.

In the grand scheme of things, while ‘Mastaney’ alone might not be the sole catalyst for global recognition, it undoubtedly paves the way. As envisioned by Sharan Art, when Punjabi cinema begins to reflect the diverse narratives of the Punjabi diaspora, it will forge deeper connections with international audiences. Until then, wherever Punjabis tread, Punjabi cinema will invariably follow, dismantling barriers and rendering boundaries irrelevant. The future holds the promise of a thriving Punjabi cinema on the global stage, Khalsa Vox reported. (ANI)

[ad_2]

Staff Reporter

Entertainment

Dubai Miracle Garden returns as UAE’s cooler season begins

Published

6 days ago

October 9, 2026

Staff Reporter

Spread the love

Dubai’s Miracle Garden has reopened for its 15th season as temperatures begin to fall across the UAE. The popular attraction in Al Barsha South welcomed visitors on Thursday, 8 October, with the new season being launched under the theme “Fifteen Years, Blooming Together”.

Sheikh Theyab bin Tahnoon bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, chairman of Miracle Group, inaugurated the new season. The garden will remain open until 31 May 2027, with a programme of weekly themes and events planned around the UAE’s cultural and national calendar.

Visitors will see activities linked to occasions including Pink October, United Nations Day, UAE Flag Day and Diwali. The programme will also include live music, family entertainment and fitness activities held as part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge.

Events are also planned for Commemoration Day and Eid Al Etihad.

“For fifteen seasons, Dubai Miracle Garden has grown alongside Dubai and its people,” Sheikh Theyab said. “This season is dedicated to the community that made it possible, particularly the families and residents who return year after year.”

Mohammed Zaher Hammadih, group chief executive of Miracle Group, said the weekly programme was intended to encourage visitors to return throughout the season.

“As we mark our 15th season, Dubai Miracle Garden continues to bring people together through shared experiences,” he said. “Our weekly programme gives families a new reason to return, with cultural celebrations, live entertainment and activities to enjoy throughout the season.”

The garden features more than 150 varieties of flowers and is known for its large-scale floral displays, some of which have previously set Guinness World Records.

Since opening in 2013, it has attracted millions of visitors and become one of Dubai’s established family attractions.The garden is open daily from 9am to 9pm on weekdays and from 9am to 11pm at weekends.

Tickets start at Dh105 for adults and Dh84 for children. Children under three can enter free of charge.

Entertainment

Emirates Dubai 7s 2026: Tickets on sale as festival returns with bigger family zone

Published

1 month ago

August 31, 2026

Michael Gomes

Spread the love

Emirates Dubai 7s is returning to The Sevens Stadium from November 27 to 29, with tickets now on sale for the three-day sports and entertainment festival.

The 2026 edition will bring together international rugby, amateur sports, live music and family entertainment, with organisers promising a bigger programme than previous years.

The festival attracted more than 88,000 visitors in 2025 and will again take place during the final weekend of the Dubai Fitness Challenge.

Ticket prices

Ticket prices for General Admission and Hospitality have stayed the same for a third consecutive year.

Three-day General Admission tickets cost Dh595 per person, while the three-day Family Pass is Dh1,136 for two adults and two children.

Other ticket options

Group pass: Dh446 per person for four or more adults
Saturday or Sunday: Dh455
Friday: Dh75
Under 15s: Free
People of Determination + carer: Dh375

Tickets can be purchased through the Emirates Dubai 7s website and app.

Bigger family attractions

Family entertainment will get a major boost this year as the UAE celebrates the Year of the Family.

The festival will feature its biggest-ever Kids’ Zone, including the UAE’s largest inflatable kids’ zone, along with a Ferris wheel and zipline. More attractions are expected to be announced ahead of the event.

Six sports and top rugby action

Alongside elite rugby, visitors can watch or take part in competitions across six sports — rugby, netball, cricket, WODON3 fitness, Rebound padel and Gaelic Football.

Gaelic Football will join the festival for the first time in 2026.

The Sevens Stadium will also host the opening round of the HSBC SVNS Series 2027, bringing the world’s leading rugby sevens players to Dubai.

The WODON3 Elite final will take place on Pitch 1 between HSBC SVNS matches, with competitors potentially performing in front of crowds of up to 20,000.

Music all weekend

Live entertainment will run throughout the festival, with local and international artists performing across three days.

Last year’s line-up included Tinie Tempah, Sean Paul and Fisher, while the 2026 headline acts will be announced later.

For a premium experience, The Sunroom returns with all-inclusive food and drinks, shaded seating, prime sporting views and dedicated access. Packages start from Dh1,925 per person.

With sport, music and family attractions packed into one weekend, Emirates Dubai 7s is gearing up for another big Dubai event.

Entertainment

Dubai launches ‘Dubai+’ family streaming platform to boost digital media and creative economy

Published

9 months ago

January 29, 2026

Michael Gomes

Spread the love

Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, has approved the launch of Dubai+, a new family-oriented digital media platform, reinforcing Dubai’s ambition to become a global hub for digital media and the creative economy.

The approval came as Sheikh Ahmed chaired the Dubai Media Council’s first meeting of 2026 at Dubai Media, where members reviewed sector strategies and plans to strengthen content creation, innovation and local production capabilities.

What is Dubai+?

Dubai+ will offer a wide range of family-friendly content, bringing together:

Local and Emirati productions
Arab series and films
International entertainment

The platform reflects Dubai Media’s integrated digital ecosystem strategy, responding to shifting viewer habits and the growing demand for high-quality, on-demand digital content.

“We believe media is a strategic force that shapes awareness, supports development and builds trust,” Sheikh Ahmed said.

Boosting Local Film and Content Production

The Council also reviewed plans to:

Enhance local production capabilities
Support cinema as a cultural and creative industry
Invest in programmes that drive creative and economic growth

Samr Al Marzooqi, Director of Films and Production at the Dubai Media Council, outlined upcoming initiatives aimed at showcasing Emirati and international talent while strengthening Dubai’s film sector.

Next Phase of Growth

Mona Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, said the next phase will focus on monitoring implementation and ensuring measurable outcomes across the sector.

Secretary General Nehal Badri added that priorities include encouraging private sector participation, accelerating content development, and investing in talent, advanced production technologies and future-ready capabilities.