Entertainment

A global sensation fuelled by diaspora’s enthusiasm

Published

2 years ago

October 14, 2023

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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)

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Staff Reporter

Announcements

Tickets now live for Dubai’s first homegrown musical spectacle

Published

1 week ago

June 14, 2025

Staff Reporter

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A cultural revolution is about to begin. Tickets are now available for Once Upon A Time in Dubai, the most ambitious, emotional, and spectacular musical ever produced in the region. Opening this December at The Agenda in Dubai Media City, the show is already being called a once-in-a-generation phenomenon — and for good reason.

More than just a stage production, Once Upon A Time in Dubai is the first original large-scale musical entirely created in the UAE, blending Broadway-worthy storytelling with the energy and dreams of one of the world’s most iconic cities. Behind this bold vision is Stéphane Boukris, entrepreneur and cultural trailblazer, who has brought together an international creative dream team — including Universal Music Group MENA as co-producer — to craft a deeply emotional journey of love, ambition, and transformation, set in today’s Dubai.

“This show is a tribute to everything Dubai represents: ambition, diversity, and the power to build your own destiny,” says Boukris. “We are creating something people will never forget.”

A World-Class Team Behind the Curtain

The production brings together talents who have previously worked on global shows such as Céline Dion, Disney shows, and Arabs Got Talent (MBC). From lighting to choreography and technical design, every detail is crafted by artists and technicians at the highest international standards.

A Story That Speaks to a Generation

At the heart of the show is Will, a young English dancer who arrives in Dubai to search for Sophia, the woman he loves. Along the way, he meets artists, entrepreneurs, and dreamers from all walks of life, culminating in a celebration of courage, community, and reinvention.

The cast features rising stars Amanda Maalouf (X Factor) and Joe Woolford (The Voice UK) — with many of the lead vocalists and performers previously featured on international talent platforms, bringing an exceptional level of stage presence and vocal power. The musical includes over 20 original songs composed by Nazim Khaled, including already-viral hits like “Habibi”, “Stranger in the World”, and “Think Big”.

A City-Wide Movement

With over 150,000 spectators expected across 55 performances, the show is much more than an event — it’s becoming a movement. Once Upon A Time in Dubai is already making waves across the city with:

● Strategic brand partnerships: McDonald’s, Carrefour MAF, Careem, Accor, Mall of the

Emirates, Tilal Al Ghaf, GEMS Education, and more

● Immersive activations: Soundtracks in Hala taxis, QR codes in malls, music in retail

stores, and dedicated social media campaigns

● Youth engagement: Auditions and showcases for students across GEMS schools,

opening the stage to the next generation of performers

The show will be performed in English, and supported by a multicultural creative team led by stage director Johan Nus.

Exclusive Ticket Sale

Tickets are available exclusively via Fever, the global ticketing platform. Pre-sale access has already launched with selected partners such as GEMS, Muse by Chalhoub, and Accor’s ALL loyalty members — with thousands of tickets snapped up in just days.

🎤 Behind the scenes videos, interviews with the cast, and a full media kit are available upon request. 📸 Press passes for opening week are now being issued — be among the first to witness the birth of a new cultural landmark.

Announcements

Dubai Musical Debuts with Amanda Maalouf’s Anthem

Published

2 months ago

April 23, 2025

Staff Reporter

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In a performance that blended emotion, elegance, and East-West harmony, Lebanese-French singer Amanda Maalouf on Wednesday gave a select UAE audience a stirring preview of the upcoming musical Once Upon A Time in Dubai, set to premiere in December 2025.

The exclusive showcase featured Maalouf performing “Habibi,” one of the show’s signature numbers, at an invite-only preview attended by media, partners, and cultural stakeholders. The song—a poignant blend of Arabic influences and Western theatrical arrangement—earned enthusiastic applause, offering a glimpse of what producers are calling “a new kind of musical for a new Dubai.”

“Dubai is more than a setting—it’s a character in this story,” said Stéphane Boukris, co-producer of the musical. “This project is about cultural unity, artistic innovation, and shining a spotlight on a new generation redefining identity in the Middle East. We’re proud to bring this bridge between France and the UAE to life.”

For Maalouf, whose performance marked the first public taste of the show, the moment was deeply personal. “Habibi is a song that speaks from the heart—it’s a journey through love, self-expression, and identity,” she told reporters after the performance. “Performing it here in Dubai, where East and West meet so beautifully, is a dream. This is just the beginning [of great things together].”

The team behind Once Upon A Time in Dubai says the musical is more than entertainment—it’s a cultural project designed to showcase Dubai as a city of stories, voices, and future-forward artistry.

The production is backed by Universal Music and features a cast and crew with international credentials, with more previews and announcements expected soon.

A collaboration between a visionary French team and Universal Music, the musical tells the story of a young generation rising in the heart of Dubai, navigating identity, ambition, and tradition in a rapidly changing world. With original compositions by renowned composer Nazim Khaled and set against the backdrop of the UAE’s global crossroads, the show promises to be a landmark moment for original musical theatre in the region. The story, told through original music and dance, will premiere later this year, with full production details expected to be announced over the coming months.

Entertainment

Philippine film legend Nora Aunor passes away at 71

Published

2 months ago

April 17, 2025

Michael Gomes

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Veteran actress, politician and beloved superstar Nora Aunor has passed away at the age of 71.

Her son, Ian De Leon, confirmed the sad news in a Facebook post on Tuesday, 16 April 2025. Sharing a photo of his late mother, he wrote:

“With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, we share the passing of our beloved mother, Nora C. Villamayor ‘Nora Aunor’ who left us today at the age of 71. She was the heart of our family, a source of unconditional love, strength, and warmth. Her kindness, wisdom, and beautiful spirit touched everyone who knew her. She will be missed beyond words and remembered forever.”

The late star’s wake will be held at The Chapels, Heritage Park in Taguig, according to her daughter and fellow actress Lotlot de Leon.

A National Treasure

In 2022, Nora Aunor was officially recognised as a National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts by the Philippine government, the highest honour given to individuals who have made a lasting impact on the country’s arts and culture. She was honoured alongside screenwriter Ricky Lee and the late director Marilou Diaz-Abaya.

Cause of Death

Neither the 71-year-old’s family nor authorities have confirmed a cause of death yet. However, according to the media outlet Inquirer.com, she was at a Pasig hospital for an undisclosed procedure.

Career Highlights

Nora Aunor rose to fame as a singer and actress, later becoming one of the most respected names in Philippine cinema. She is best known for her award-winning performance in the critically acclaimed film Himala.

Her most recent film appearance was in Mananambal, alongside actress Bianca Umali. On television, her final role was in the GMA Afternoon Prime series Lilet Matias: Attorney-at-Law.

A true icon, Nora Aunor leaves behind a rich legacy and a nation in mourning.

Tributes Pour In

“Every tear she shed onscreen felt like a collective heartbreak. Every line she delivered became etched in the memory of Philippine cinema… Nora, salamat sa sining. Salamat sa puso,” wrote Charo Santos-Concio said in her post.

“Despite her legendary status, she carried herself with such modesty — confident in her craft, yet never boastful,” Actress Lovi Poe said in her post.

“The FDCP mourns the passing of National Artist Nora Aunor — an icon, a legend, and a voice that captured the soul of a nation. Her performances were never just roles; they were reflections of truth, hope, and resilience,’ wrote The national film council of the Philippines.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, fans, and every Filipino soul mourning the loss of our beloved Superstar and National Artist,” said noted social activist Persida Rueda-Acosta.