Karina Pandya

There are films that simply entertain, and then there are films that stay with you long after. Main Vaapas Aaunga (I Will Return) belongs to the latter category. The film takes viewers on an emotional journey while exploring themes of true love, memory, longing, and deep human connection. Set against the backdrop of the 1947 Partition of India, the film examines one of the most significant events in South Asian history. The Partition, which divided British India into India and Pakistan, had profound consequences for regions such as Punjab, Bengal, Assam, and Jammu and Kashmir. Focusing primarily on Punjab, Main Vaapas Aaunga revolves around memories of an ancestral home and is deeply rooted in themes of displacement, migration, and longing in the aftermath of Partition. More than just a period romance, the film serves as a reflection on identity, belonging, and the universal desire to return home—whether physically or emotionally. Imtiaz Ali crafts a compelling narrative that ...

One of the most powerful bonds we share in life is the one we have with our fathers. Whether we are sons or daughters, a father is often seen as the provider of the family, a hero in our lives, and a role model who helps shape who we become. Before going on a hiatus from comedy that could potentially last until 2030, Indian comedian Zakir Khan performed in Mumbai as part of a limited residency at the NSCI Dome on June 13, 2026. The show, titled Papa Yaar, was on its final lap—a closing chapter that has resonated with audiences across the world, from Madison Square Garden in New York to the IG Stadium in Delhi. Unlike other stand-up shows, this one really tugged at the heartstrings, highlighting the importance of a father's role in our lives. Of course, there were jokes and punchlines scattered throughout the performance, but what really stood out was how it reminded us of the memories we share with our fathers. There was a great deal of nostalgia, remarkable storytelling, and, o...

Founded in 2000, Akvarious Productions is known for producing over 90 plays, including comedies, children's theatre, and intimate dramas. Yesterday, I had the opportunity to watch the much-talked-about play External Affairs at Rangshila Theatre in Andheri. What really caught my attention when I booked my ticket was that it revolved around common relationship problems. As someone who enjoys stories that reflect contemporary realities, I was eager to watch a play centred on modern relationships and the emotional complexities that come with them. The play revolves around Arjun (Chaitanya Sharma), a young man struggling to cope with a painful heartbreak. In the midst of his emotional turmoil, he crosses paths with Insia (Shweta Tripathi), who is also dealing with the aftermath of a failed relationship. Their unexpected meeting forms the heart of the story and takes the audience on a journey of emotions, self-discovery, and the challenges of navigating relationships in today's worl...