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‘Match Fixing – The Nation at Stake’: A Gripping Political Thriller That Unravels Dark Truths

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Director: Kedaar Gaekwad , Producer: Pallavi Gurjar, Cast: Vineet Kumar Singh, Anuja Sathe, Manoj Joshi, Raj Arjun, Shataf Figar, Lalit Parimoo and Kishore Kadam, Duration: 2h26m, Rating: 4 stars.

‘Match Fixing – The Nation at Stake’ is based on a book ‘The Game Behind Saffron Terror’ written by an ex-army officer, Col. Kanwar Khatana. This gripping yet controversial political thriller unfolds the intricate web of Indo-Pak politics. The film dramatizes a series of devastating terror attacks that shook India between 2004 and 2008, culminating in the catastrophic 26/11 Mumbai attacks.

The opening scenes of the film, pack a punch, drawing viewers into a complex web of conspiracies and parallel plots. As the story unfolds, closed-door meetings between Indian and Pakistani politicians and leaders reveal a shocking agenda – to malign the reputation of Hindus by concocting the term “Saffron Terror” for the sake of vote-bank politics.

The film’s first half masterfully sets the tone, weaving together multiple subplots in India and Pakistan, while introducing the protagonist who is an undercover army officer from intelligence. He has become a thorn in the flesh of those who are hell bent on spreading the false narrative of Saffron Terror. The ominous Samjhauta Express and Malegoan blasts serve as bookends to this half.

As the narrative unfolds, the second half becomes increasingly engrossing, with the antagonists meticulously planning their final, devastating attack. The culmination is expertly handled as the protagonist hands are tied. All of this leads to a thought-provoking and impactful conclusion that lingers long after the credits roll, leaving audiences to ponder and deliberate.

The producer Pallavi Gurjar has not only chosen an extremely powerful subject but also facilitated high production values to the film, bringing the necessary gravitas to this important subject.

The film’s creative brilliance is largely attributed to Director and DOP Kedaar Gaekwad, whose storytelling seamlessly brings together political intrigue, complex characters, and real-life events. His cinematography is a visual treat, making the film an unforgettable viewing experience.

Vineet Kumar Singh’s portrayal of Col. Avinash Patwardhan – the protagonist is pitch perfect. After Mukkabaaz and Gangs of Wasseypur, Vineet gives one of the finest performances of his career. Vineet shines with his remarkable portrayal, effortlessly transitioning between roles as an undercover agent, army officer, and devoted family man, showcasing his impressive range and versatility as an actor.

Vineet is ably supported by an ensemble cast of distinguished actors. Anuja Sathe, as his wife, plays the perfect counterbalance with her solid yet restrained performance.

Veteran actors Manoj Joshi and Kishore Kadam deliver standout performances, bringing to life complex and unconventional characters with convincing authenticity and depth.

Shataf Figar’s towering personality, Elena Tutteja’s uncanny resemblance, Ramanjit Kaur’s intensity and Lalit Parimoo’s effortlessness are noteworthy.

The surprise package of the film is Raj Arjun. His outstanding portrayal of a Pakistani Colonel is nuanced and multifaceted. He masterfully provides justification and motivation to his character’s actions, avoiding stereotypes with remarkable subtlety.

The film’s location and production design teams have meticulously recreated the era with remarkable accuracy. The makers have ensured authenticity, accurately replicating army protocols with attention to detail in every frame.

Anuj S. Mehta’s exceptional screenplay weaves a riveting narrative, expertly intertwining multiple plot threads, characters, and layers. Sameer Garud’s razor-sharp dialogue and incisive character interactions. The writing team pack a lasting punch, lingering in the viewer’s mind long after the credits roll.

Ashish Mhatre’s crafts a thrilling narrative with his sharp editing, skillfully balancing tension and comprehension of such a complex subject. Thankfully the film never digresses into unnecessary subplots and largely remains focused to the central plot.

Rimi Dhar has composed two songs for the film. While the first is an electrifying anthem sung by Daler Mehendi, the second is a melodious composition which takes the story forward in flashback. Hrishi Girdhar’s background score is a standout, enhancing each scene.

‘Match Fixing – The Nation’ at Stake is a must watch for those who love intense political thrillers which are entangled in terrorism and conspiracy theories.

Bollywood

Farah Khan says ‘enjoy this beautiful phase’ as Rajkummar Rao & Patralekhaa welcome their baby girl

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Mumbai, Nov 15: Filmmaker and choreographer Farah Khan congratulated the new parents on the block, Rajkummar Rao and Patralekhaa, as they welcomed their first child, a baby girl, on Saturday.

Dropping a couple of lovely photos from Patralekhaa’s baby shower on social media, Farah advised Rajkummar and Patralekhaa to enjoy this beautiful phase of their life.

Taking to her official Instagram handle, Farah wrote, “The Baby is here!! Congratulations @patralekhaa n @rajkummar_rao .. enjoy this beautiful phase of life (sparkling heart emojis) n remember for any baby advice.. main hoon na.. (winking face with tongue emoji) (sic).”

“p.s.- @iamhumaq luckily we just about did the baby shower in time (face with tears of joy emoji),” she added.

The images show the couple twinning in yellow as they posed in the middle of a cake, balloons, and a giant teddy bear.

Rajkummar and Patralekhaa made the happy announcement on social media with a sweet Insta post that read, “We are over the moon God has blessed us with a Baby girl…Blessed parents Patralekhaa and Rajkumaar(sic).”

“(red heart and folded hands emoji) The greatest blessing God has given us on our 4th wedding anniversary. (sic),” they captioned the joint post.

Several big names from Bollywood congratulated the new parents in the comment section.

Actor Varun Dhawan commented, “(red heart emoji) welcome to the club guys@(red heart emoji)”

Actress Neha Dhupia said, “Congratulations you guys (red heart emojis) welcome to the best hood … parenthood(red heart emoji).”

Actor Ali Fazal shared, “Oh my goddddd!!!! So so happy to hear this . Congratulations you two beautiful people. Mubaarak…(red heart emojis).”

Rajkummar and Patralekhaa announced their first pregnancy back in July this year.

The couple uploaded a joint post on their official Instagram accounts saying, “Baby on the way – Patralekhaa & Rajkummar (sic).”

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Tabu’s Bold Ramp Walk For Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla In Black Cape Steals The Show At Fashion Event In Mumbai

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Bollywood star Tabu once again showcased that style truly transcends age as she turned showstopper for the celebrated designer duo Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla. Her commanding runway presence-sharp posture, confident stride, and fierce gaze, left the audience spellbound.

The 54-year-old actor, who celebrated her birthday on November 4, made a powerful statement in a monochrome ensemble. She wore parallel black trousers, a cowl-neck tunic, and a long architectural jacket embellished with luxurious silver crystals and intricate hand embroidery. The outfit beautifully blended Indian craftsmanship with contemporary glamour.

Her styling elevated the drama- a sleek high bun, bold red lipstick, and intense kohl-lined eyes added to her striking aura. Tabu completed her look with classic shiny black loafers, perfectly balancing comfort and timeless elegance.

Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla shared stunning photos of Tabu from the event on Instagram, describing the show’s theme as “A Thousand and One Nights”, imagined through nocturnal celebration and opulence.

The designers highlighted that the coat was a reinvented edition of their maximal signature piece, featuring thousands of sequins hand-embroidered on a black base, crafted from pure chamois satin and crepe de chine.

The show was attended by prominent Bollywood names including Jaya Bachchan, Neetu Kapoor, and Soni Razdan, who cheered on as Tabu lit up the runway.

The comments section quickly filled with admiration, with fans calling her “regal,” “stunning,” “gorgeous” and “fantabulous.” Many applauded her effortless grace and ability to deliver unforgettable style moments every single time she steps into the spotlight.

From red carpets to high-fashion ramps, Tabu continues to prove why she remains one of Bollywood’s most respected and celebrated fashion icons. Her latest showstopper moment reinforces that confidence, craft, and elegance are her signature style, always age-defying and always iconic.

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Dharmendra’s Fan, An Auto-Rickshaw Driver, Breaks Down Outside Actor’s Mumbai Home After His Discharge, Says ‘Admired Him Since Childhood

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Mumbai: Veteran Bollywood legend Dharmendra, 89, was discharged from Breach Candy Hospital on Wednesday morning and will continue his treatment at home, bringing immense relief to fans who had been anxiously following his health updates. The actor, who was admitted over a week ago after complaining of breathlessness, had been under constant medical supervision for several days.

As news of his discharge spread, a large crowd of admirers gathered outside the actor’s Juhu residence today morning to catch a glimpse of their beloved ‘He-Man’ of Indian cinema. Among them stood an auto-rickshaw driver, clutching a handmade poster, wiping his teary eyes and offering prayers for the actor’s recovery, a moment that perfectly captured the emotional bond between Dharmendra and his fans.

The auto driver, speaking to reporters, said with deep affection, “As soon as I heard that Dharmendra had arrived home, I immediately came here with my rickshaw. I couldn’t resist, I have admired his pictures since childhood. Even at his age, his personality is remarkable; he still swims, which is not easy. I pray for his speedy recovery.”

A video shared by paparazzi accounts earlier today showed an ambulance arriving at Dharmendra’s residence, followed by his son Bobby Deol’s car. Moments later, fans were seen cheering as word spread that the actor had safely reached home.

Dr. Pratit Samdani from Breach Candy Hospital confirmed the development, saying, “He was discharged at 7:30 am. His recovery and treatment will continue at home.” Dr. Rajiv Sharma added that Dharmendra “left fully satisfied,” and that his family had made all necessary arrangements for his continued care. “He is in stable condition,” Sharma assured.

Though the Deol family has not yet issued an official statement, sources close to the family said that Dharmendra’s condition has stabilised and he will be closely monitored by doctors at home. Messages of love and prayers have poured in across social media, with fans sharing old movie clips, heartfelt notes and pictures of the actor.

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