In an era where relationship dramas often lean towards heightened conflict and spectacle, the Marathi series Hey Kay Navin? finds its strength in quiet realism. At the heart of this grounded storytelling is Priya Bapat, who brings emotional depth and lived-in authenticity to her character. Recently, the actor opened up about evolving relationships, the show’s relatability, and why audiences across age groups find themselves reflected in its world. On navigating growth within relationships For Priya, one of the most challenging aspects of long-term relationships is not change itself, but how partners respond to it. Reflecting on this, she says,“I think the hardest part is accepting each other’s growth and being supportive of it. Umesh and I have evolved over time, sometimes growing together and sometimes in different directions. What matters is respecting each other’s individuality and choices. As a relationship matures, expectations can change. But as long as there is no conflict in values and you can still align and meet halfway, things work beautifully.” What sets Hey Kay Navin? apart In a crowded landscape of love stories, Priya believes the show stands out because of its honesty and simplicity. She shares, “I think the biggest takeaway is that the show is completely relatable. It is something the entire family can sit and watch together. It feels like a mirror to your own life, but in a light, humorous, and emotional way, not preachy at all. It also makes you look at your life a little more objectively. While shooting, we genuinely felt like Varun had installed CCTV cameras in our homes. That is how real it felt.” It’s this balance of humour and emotional truth that allows the series to resonate without ever feeling overbearing. Why today’s audiences connect so deeply The relatability of Hey Kay Navin? extends across generations, something Priya finds both surprising and rewarding. She explains, “Even with Aani Kay Hava?, we did not expect kids to connect with it so much, but they really did, especially with Saket. I think they will now relate to the older versions of these characters because that is just how life progresses. There are small moments in the show, like dozing off at a party or men instantly falling asleep the moment they sit on a couch, that felt very real. I have seen that in my own life too. I always tell Umesh that he can fall asleep anywhere, anytime. That relatability is really the heart of the show.” With Hey Kay Navin?, Priya Bapat continues to champion stories that reflect real lives with honesty and warmth. The show will be released on ZEE5 from March 31.
27 March,2026 05:46 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentRajshri Deshpande recently opened up about one of the most difficult phases of her life her battle with breast cancer revealing the emotional toll it took on her even before she began treatment. In a candid conversation, the actor recalled the moment she learned about her diagnosis and how it left her shattered. She admitted that the mental impact was overwhelming, saying she broke down alone while trying to process the news. The emotional weight of the situation, she shared, was far more difficult to handle than she had expected. Rajshri Deshpande gets candid about her diagnosis Rajshri revealed that although she has often portrayed strong characters on screen, facing a real-life crisis of this magnitude was entirely different. “The mental pain was unbearable,” she confessed, highlighting how the diagnosis brought a wave of fear, uncertainty, and vulnerability. The actor was diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer, which was detected during a routine check-up something she now emphasises as crucial. She underwent surgery soon after and is currently on the road to recovery. Despite the medical procedures, she shared that it was the emotional struggle that affected her the most in the initial days. Opening up about the stigma surrounding cancer, Rajshri pointed out how people often react with fear or sympathy in ways that can feel isolating. She stressed the need to normalise conversations around the illness, saying that the “C-word” continues to carry an unnecessary taboo. On breaking down after the diagnosis She also spoke about how her perspective on life has shifted since the diagnosis. The experience, while painful, has made her more aware of her health and the importance of early detection. Rajshri now hopes to use her journey to encourage others, especially women, to prioritise regular check-ups and not ignore warning signs. The actor expressed gratitude for the support she received from her family, friends, and medical team, which helped her navigate the challenging period. She described her recovery as a gradual process, both physically and emotionally, and emphasised the importance of resilience during such times. Through her candid revelations, Rajshri Deshpande has not only shared her personal battle but also sparked an important conversation about awareness, early detection, and the emotional realities of dealing with cancer.
27 March,2026 04:11 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a sleepy village in Tamil Nadu, a police station runs the risk of shutting down due to the low number of cases. But when a severed human head is discovered on a nearby hill, things spiral out of control. With no body in sight, but a bundle of cash and a letter at the crime scene, this is no open-and-shut case, and it is up to three police officers to piece together what happened. When the first episode ends in such a manner, one can only assume that the investigation that follows will unravel several layers with multiple twists. Through some old-fashioned digging, the police discover that 1) the man is named Muthu and 2) he harbours sordid secrets. Every person interrogated presents a narrative of how they met him, and provide wildly different impressions of Muthu (Vijay Sethupathi) emerge. Over the years, Muthu has been a part of a troupe of dancers in Madurai, a mahout, a watch mechanic in Kerala, and a manager at an orphanage, switching professions at the drop of a hat. To a man whose restaurant stands because of Muthu’s benevolence, he is nothing short of divine. Muthu's former boss, however, suspects him of harbouring ties to a criminal (Milind Soman). At the centre of these conflicting recollections, Muthu stands as a mystical and elusive figure. Who is Muthu? And more importantly, who killed him? Kaattaan unfolds at a slow pace, ambling through the houses and fields in the village to establish its milieu. The sweeping vistas of rural Tamil Nadu are absolutely gorgeous, yet, for all its atmospheric intent, the opening stretch fails to create any real emotional resonance with its characters. Investigating officer Kaliyan Pandiyan's central conflict of being torn between continuing the family legacy of herding goats and being a police officer feels underdeveloped, making it difficult to be invested in his dilemma. The series does not fare better in lighter moments either. Whether it's Pandiyan’s mother teaching her helper, Kuttu Karippu, how to shave a goat's horn, or the age-old mother-in-law and daughter-in-law squabble, these moments are tedious instead of funny. They unnecessarily stall the pace, making one wish the series would move past domestic detours and return to the far more compelling murder investigation. Equally frustrating is the presence of a languid and inept officer Paluraj (Singamouli), whose sole function is to deliver comic one-liners, a trope that feels out of place in a serious and layered narrative, and one that quickly wears thin. The most glaring misstep, however, is Muthu's poorly rendered CGI head. It's so unconvincing that it undercuts the sense of curiosity and tension the series tries to build. However, despite the slow start, the series picks up momentum in later episodes, with the cops embarking on a hunt across Tamil Nadu and even a cross-border journey to Kerala. The suspense heightens as more layers are peeled from Muthu's character, and we navigate his many identities. Kaattaan, though not gripping enough to warrant a one-sitting binge, is certainly engaging and intriguing enough to make it a journey worth embarking on.
27 March,2026 01:50 PM IST | Mumbai | Nandini ShahPrime Video unveiled the delightful, heartwarming trailer of its upcoming series Maa Ka Sum. Directed by Nicholas Kharkongor and produced by Babita Ashiwal under Eunoia Films, the trailer offers a glimpse into a quirky, feel-good world where a math prodigy sets out to solve love in theory through equations—only to discover that emotions don’t always follow logic. Maa Ka Sum trailer The trailer introduces Agastya, a 19-year-old math prodigy, declaring, “Maths ho ya pyaar… ek hi equation hain,” as he sets “Project Mom” into motion — a mission to find the perfect partner for his single mother, Vinita. What follows is a quirky, fast-paced ride where logic meets emotion, and carefully planned equations begin to unravel. The arrival of enigmatic new math professor Ira further fuels Agastya’s mission, as the two join forces to build an algorithm for the perfect match. But as emotions begin to disrupt his perfectly calculated world, Agastya’s formula encounters variables no equation can solve. Will his carefully crafted equation lead him to the answer to love — or come undone? View this post on Instagram A post shared by prime video IN (@primevideoin) Written by Ravinder Randhawa and Sumrit Shahi, it stars Mona Singh, Mihir Ahuja, Angira Dhar, and Ranveer Brar in lead roles. Director Nicholas Kharkongor shared, “Maa Ka Sum does not really fit into a neat box. It is not a typical relationship drama, nor is it a purely coming-of-age story. It is about relationships—seen through the eyes of a 19-year-old who believes any problem in life can be solved with logic and data. Using mathematics in a slightly unusual manner allowed us to explore these emotions in a fresh way. None of it would have come alive without the intensity Mihir brings to his character, or Mona’s effortless grace and charm. Working with a team that truly believed in this story made the journey deeply fulfilling. I am excited for viewers to experience this heartwarming, fresh take on love and family.” Mona Singh talks about Maa Ka Sum Mona Singh, who plays Agastya’s mother Vinita in the series, said, “Vinita is unlike anyone I have played before, and that is largely because of how refreshingly different this story is. At its heart is a single mother-son relationship that is built on an easy friendship, deep trust, and a rather unusual lens on love, which is what drew me in instantly. I love that Vinita allows herself to be vulnerable, to rediscover love, and to trust her son’s unconventional way of looking at life. The series strikes a beautiful balance between humour and emotion, while telling a story that feels warm, honest, and deeply relatable in its own distinct way. I think a lot of people will see their own relationships in it.” Mihir Ahuja, who plays the lead character Agastya, said, “What I found most endearing about Agastya is that beneath all his confidence and brilliance, he is simply a son who deeply loves his mother and wants to see her happy. He shares a rare friendship with her — there is honesty, comfort, and a warmth in their bond that feels very special. In his own unusual way, he takes it upon himself to care for her and becomes determined to help her find love, convinced that math can solve even matters of the heart. I just hope audiences enjoy Agastya and his journey as much as I did portraying him.” The series is set to premiere on Prime Video in Hindi with subtitles in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam, worldwide on April 3.
27 March,2026 01:20 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentPrime Video today announced April 3 as the worldwide premiere date of its Prime Original lighthearted drama Maa Ka Sum. Directed by Nicholas Kharkongor and produced by Babita Ashiwal under the banner of Eunoia Films, this heartwarming series celebrates the refreshing bond between a single mother and her 19-year-old son, built on friendship, mutual trust, and the freedom to support each other as they grow together. View this post on Instagram A post shared by prime video IN (@primevideoin) About Maa Ki Sum Written by Ravinder Randhawa and Sumrit Shahi, Maa Ka Sum stars the versatile and talented Mona Singh, along with Mihir Ahuja, Angira Dhar, and Ranveer Brar in lead roles. The eight-episode series will premiere exclusively on Prime Video in Hindi with subtitles in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam, across India and over 240 countries and territories worldwide on April 3. Maa Ka Sum follows Agastya, a bright math prodigy in his late teens, played by Mihir Ahuja, who sees the world through graphs, numbers, and algorithms. For him, every problem has a logical solution, even finding the perfect partner for his single mother, Vinita, portrayed by Mona Singh. Enter Project Mom: Equation ya Emotion? But what begins as Agastya’s carefully crafted plan soon turns into a quirky and heartwarming ride, where logic collides with real emotions, unexpected encounters, and the unpredictability of life. With humour, warmth, and a touch of math, Maa Ka Sum offers a fresh and layered take on the mother-son dynamic. 'Tenderness, friction and quiet understanding' Producer Babita Ashiwal shared, “What drew me to this series was its warmth and the heartfelt way it looks at relationships. At its core, it’s the story of a boy in his late teens trying to make sense of love and adulting through math and data. It’s the kind of story that feels instantly relatable, full of humour, and the little lessons we all pick up while figuring life out. Maa Ka Sum is a wholesome family watch that promises to entertain everyone, from young adults to older audiences.” “Stories rooted in relationships have a timeless appeal because they reflect emotions and bonds that feel deeply universal,” said Nikhil Madhok, Director & Head of Originals, Prime Video India. “At the heart of Maa Ka Sum is a mother-son relationship portrayed with a rare freshness and emotional depth. This series captures the tenderness, friction, and quiet understanding of this bond in an honest and deeply relatable way. Mona and Mihir are terrific in their roles. We are delighted to bring this story to our customers across the world on April 3rd.”
27 March,2026 12:59 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a content landscape dominated by high-stakes thrillers and edge-of-your-seat action, Netflix’s Maamla Legal Hai Season 2 walks into the courtroom with a completely different brief — to make you laugh. With its signature blend of satire, warmth, and everyday absurdity, the series has carved a space for itself as a feel-good escape that doesn’t take itself too seriously, yet leaves a lasting impression. Ravi Kishan talks about the importance of comedy When asked about the importance of such comedies today, Ravi Kishan reflects on the role laughter plays in balancing the viewing experience, especially in a time when audiences are constantly consuming heavy and intense content. Ravi Kishan shares, “I’ve often heard he who laughs, lasts…. Humour and comedy are quintessential, and comedies have been at the forefront of entertainment. A horror or an action film in India feels incomplete without a comedic punchline. A show like ours ensures that everyone's mental 'mammle' is healthy and stable in a time where we have realised that mental wellbeing is of utmost importance. A comedy strengthens bonds as we present relatable situations and characters, which makes our audiences feel valued and understood. Shows like Maamla don't just entertain viewers, they remind us to find humour in life’s little moments and offer an escape from our own hardships.” Whether it’s the chaos of the courtroom or the camaraderie between its characters, Maamla Legal Hai proves that sometimes, the best stories are the ones that let you sit back, unwind, and simply enjoy the ride. About Maamla Legal Hai Produced by Posham Pa Pictures, the series is helmed by showrunner Sameer Saxena, with Rahul Pandey as the director. Based on the world and characters created by Saurabh Khanna and Kunal Anejal, this new season is written by Syed Shadan, Mohak Aneja and Tatsat Pandey, with Kunal leading the team. With its signature blend of satire, heart, and full-on courtroom comedy, Maamla Legal Hai Season 2 promises another paisa-vasool (bang for the buck) ride where every objection sparks laughter and every verdict comes with a twist. Adding fresh sparkle to this courtroom are Kusha Kapila and Dinesh Lal Yadav, who blend seamlessly with returning favourites Ravi Kishan, Nidhi Bisht, Naila Grewal, Anant Joshi and Anjum Batra, Naila Grewal, Anant Joshi and Anjum Batra. Step into the chaos and catch all the maamle in Maamla Legal Hai Season 2, streaming April 3, only on Netflix.
27 March,2026 12:05 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentShahneel Gill, sister of Shubman Gill, is set to step into the spotlight with her reported participation in The Traitors season 2, and her journey is already generating buzz. All about Shahneel Gill Born in Fazilka, Punjab, Shahneel has carved her own identity beyond being a cricketer’s sibling. She pursued her education in Chandigarh before moving to Canada, where she completed a diploma in business administration. Professionally, she has worked as a success consultant with a food delivery company, showcasing a corporate background before gaining attention in the public eye. In recent years, Shahneel has built a strong presence on social media, emerging as a lifestyle and fashion influencer. With a growing follower base, she regularly shares glimpses of her travels, fitness routines, and personal style. Her vibrant personality and relatable content have helped her gain popularity, especially among younger audiences. Despite her online visibility, Shahneel is known to keep her personal life relatively private. She is often seen supporting her brother during matches, and the siblings share a close bond that fans frequently admire. Her appearances at cricket events and candid moments with Shubman have further boosted her public recognition. All about Shahneel's entry in The Traitors 2 Now, with reports suggesting her entry into The Traitors 2, Shahneel is expected to explore a completely different space. The reality show, known for its mix of strategy, deception, and psychological gameplay, will test contestants on trust, alliances, and mind games. Her participation could bring a fresh dynamic, especially given her relatively low-key yet influential public persona. Unlike seasoned reality TV contestants, Shahneel comes in without prior experience in such competitive formats, which could work both as a challenge and an advantage. Her calm demeanour and observational approach may help her navigate the complex social dynamics of the show. Her inclusion also reflects a growing trend of digital personalities transitioning into mainstream entertainment. As audiences become more invested in influencers and their journeys, shows like The Traitors are tapping into this appeal to bring diverse personalities together. If confirmed, Shahneel Gill’s stint on the show could mark a significant turning point in her career, taking her from social media fame to national television. With curiosity already building around her participation, all eyes will be on how she performs in a game where perception, strategy, and trust are constantly tested.
26 March,2026 06:59 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Harry Potter TV series is currently under production, and the makers announced the cast last year. The show, being produced by HBO, will feature fresh faces bringing back the magic of Hogwarts School. Reactions to the new casting have been mixed, but actor Paapa Essiedu has reportedly received death threats after being cast as Professor Snape. He has been on the receiving end of severe online abuse, including racially motivated threats. Security enhanced on Harry Potter sets The makers have heightened security on set amid threats targeting Essiedu. Casey Bloys, CEO of HBO and HBO Max, confirmed the increased security and said the backlash was expected given the show’s massive global fan base. Speaking to Variety, he said, “With actors on major IP shows — especially one with such passionate fans — things can get scary. We anticipated this and provided training and best practices for social media, along with a strong security team. Unfortunately, it’s something we thought might happen, and we’re being as careful as possible.” When Paapa Essiedu addressed backlash Some Harry Potter fans have expressed disappointment and frustration over a Black actor being cast as Professor Snape. The role was previously portrayed by the late Alan Rickman in the films. Earlier, Paapa addressed the backlash in an interview with The Sunday Times, saying, “I’ve been told, ‘Quit or I’ll murder you.’ If I look at Instagram, I’ll see someone saying they’ll come to my house and kill me. While I hope I’ll be okay, nobody should face this for doing their job. Many people risk their lives at work — I’m playing a wizard in Harry Potter. I’d be lying if I said it doesn’t affect me emotionally.” The upcoming series, expected to premiere in 2027, features a largely new cast, including Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger, and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley. The young trio were selected from more than 30,000 actors who auditioned in a casting call last fall, reported Variety. Led by showrunner Francesca Gardiner and director Mark Mylod of 'Succession,' HBO's new take on the beloved book-turned-movie-franchise will follow the young Potter as he discovers he's a wizard, leaves his Muggle family behind and sets off to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, reported Variety.
25 March,2026 02:12 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe makers of Bridgerton have set Francesca (Hannah Dodd) and Michaela Stirling (Masali Baduza) as the leads for Season 5 of the Shonda Rhimes-created Netflix period romance, reported Variety. On Tuesday, Netflix unveiled a first-look teaser for the fifth season of the series, which is based on Julia Quinn's romance novels about the love lives of the eight siblings in the titular Bridgerton family, and announced production had begun in the UK on the eight-episode season. "The fifth season of Bridgerton spotlights introverted middle daughter Francesca (Hannah Dodd). Two years after losing her beloved husband John, Fran decides to reenter the marriage mart for practical reasons. But when John's cousin Michaela (Masali Baduza) returns to London to tend to the Kilmartin estate, Fran's complicated feelings will have her questioning whether to stick to her pragmatic intentions or pursue her inner passions," reported Variety, citing Netflix's description. Netflix shared the series announcement on their Instagram handle. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bridgerton (@bridgertonnetflix) Hannah Dodd as Francesca Stirling. Countess of Kilmartin: Reserved and contained, Francesca has long felt out of place in the world. As Michaela stirs up new feelings inside her, Fran will make discoveries about herself that could change everything. Masali Baduza as Michaela Stirling. Beneath Michaela's charming and vivacious exterior hides a vulnerable young woman who is quick to run the second she feels discomfort. But this season, Michaela must face her vulnerability head-on as she's forced to navigate her relationship to her late cousin's legacy and to Francesca. Bridgerton Season 4, which was released in two parts on Netflix between January and February, focused on the love story between Benedict Bridgerton (Luke Thompson) and Sophie Baek (Yerin Ha), reported Variety. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
25 March,2026 09:19 AM IST | Washington DC | ANIThe upcoming season of The Traitors is already generating buzz, and the excitement has only intensified with reports that several Bigg Boss winners will be part of its second edition. Bigg Boss winners under one roof According to reports, popular winners including Munawar Faruqui, Elvish Yadav, Shweta Tiwari, and Rubina Dilaik are set to compete in The Traitors 2. Their inclusion has raised anticipation levels, as all four are known for their strong personalities and impressive gameplay in their respective seasons. The show, which blends strategy, deception, and psychological gameplay, is expected to become even more intense this time. Contestants will not only have to complete tasks but also identify the “traitors” hidden among them, making trust and manipulation key elements of the game. Interestingly, the second season is reportedly being shot in Rajasthan, adding a grand and dramatic backdrop to the high-stakes competition. Along with the winners, familiar faces like Abhishek Malhan are also expected to join the lineup, further strengthening the reality TV-heavy cast. Each of these contestants brings a unique strength to the table. Munawar Faruqui, who won Bigg Boss 17, is known for his calm yet strategic approach. Elvish Yadav, the winner of Bigg Boss OTT 2, built a massive fan base with his bold personality and quick wit. Meanwhile, television stalwarts Shweta Tiwari and Rubina Dilaik are admired for their resilience and strong screen presence. Their participation sets the stage for an intense clash of minds, as seasoned reality show players go head-to-head in a format that tests not just physical endurance but also mental agility and emotional intelligence. All about Traitors The first season of The Traitors was widely appreciated for its unique concept and gripping gameplay, and the addition of such high-profile contestants is expected to take the second season a notch higher. Fans are already eager to see how alliances form, strategies unfold, and betrayals play out in this unpredictable game. With a mix of experience, popularity, and competitive spirit, The Traitors 2 promises to deliver high drama and edge-of-the-seat entertainment, making it one of the most anticipated reality shows of the year.
24 March,2026 01:36 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentCanadian actor Carrie Anne Fleming, best known for her appearances in popular horror television series Supernatural, has died at the age of 51. Fleming passed away on February 26 in Sidney, British Columbia, following complications from breast cancer. Her death was confirmed by her Supernatural co-star Jim Beaver to Variety. Born on August 16, 1974, in Digby, Nova Scotia, Fleming grew up in British Columbia, where she pursued her passion for the performing arts. She attended Mount Douglas Senior Secondary in Victoria and went on to study drama at Kaleidoscope Theatre and the Kidco Theatre Dance Company. Fleming began her career with a recurring role in the television series Viper and also appeared in the popular Adam Sandler film Happy Gilmore. Over the years, she built a steady body of work, often taking on smaller but memorable roles across film and television. Her breakthrough in the horror genre came when acclaimed Italian director Dario Argento cast her in the anthology series Masters of Horror in 2005. In the episode 'Jenifer,' Fleming portrayed a disfigured woman with cannibalistic tendencies, a performance that became one of her most recognised roles among genre audiences. Fleming went on to feature in several horror productions, including Supernatural, where she played Karen Singer, the wife of Bobby Singer. She also appeared in the television film The Unauthorized Full House Story, portraying the mother of actor Candace Cameron Bure, known for her role as DJ Tanner in the sitcom Full House. In recent years, Fleming gained renewed popularity for her recurring role as Candy Baker on the CW series iZombie, where she appeared over five seasons. Beyond screen work, she remained active in theatre, performing in British Columbia stage productions such as Noises Off, Romeo and Juliet, Steel Magnolias, and Fame. Fleming is survived by her daughter, Madalyn Rose (Max). As per Variety, a memorial service is expected to be announced at a later date. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
24 March,2026 10:29 AM IST | Washington | ANIADVERTISEMENT
