Akhtars
Lucknow pays tribute to Begum Akhtar’s immortal legacy; Ashwini Bhide Deshpande performs at Mallika-e-Ghazal’s mazar
The state capital hosted various events to commemorate the legacy of Mallika-e-Ghazal Begum Akhtar. Marking her death anniversary on October 30, 1974, Padma Shri awardee and Hindustani classical singer Ashwini Bhide Deshpande paid a musical tribute, presenting the legendary artist’s popular songs at her Mazar in Pasand Bagh, Old City.
The singer from Jaipur’s Atrauli Gharana expressed her reverence, stating, “Like everyone, I am a very big fan of Begum Akhtar’s ghazals, her dadras, and thumris. Each of her songs is a masterpiece, and it’s an honour and a special feeling to dedicate a musical evening Hazri, for her at the very place where she rests.”
Deshpande held the audience spellbound with her renditions of ghazals, dadra, and thumri. She opened the evening with a Hazri in Raag Kedar, followed by the ghazal Chha Rahi Kali Ghata, the thumri Ab Ke Sawan Ghar Aa Ja, and the dadra Ho Gayi Beriya Piya. She was accompanied by vocalist Megha Shyamlal Bhatt, Pandit Vinod Lele on the tabla, and Pandit Dharam Nath Mishra on the harmonium. A large gathering of music lovers was present at the Mazar to pay their respects to the legendary singer.
Organiser Madhvi Kuckreja shared, “The musical Hazri has become an annual feature at her Mazar. This year is special because, at our Lucknow Bioscope museum in Sanatkada Ka Adda, we have put up an exclusive exhibition, Life and Legacy of Begum Akhtar. It displays her music LP records, rare articles, some personal belongings, a harmonium gifted by her, and much more.”
A separate two-day musical evening was also organised by Bhatkhande Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya at the Kalamandapam auditorium. Pune-based singer Sangeeta Nerurkar performed on the opening day, while Rageshwari Das from Kolkata offered a musical tribute on the concluding day.
Her popular songs including Humri Atariay Pe, Kuch to Duniya Ki Inayat Hai and Aye Mohabaat… were presented on the occasion.
The university’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Mandvi Singh, remarked, “It is a matter of pride for us that Begum Akhtar was associated with the Bhatkhande Music Institute for some time. Revisiting this historic connection fills us with immense respect and honour. This event is a tribute to the immortal legacy of Begum Akhtar.”
Ankit Siwach Defines His Breakthrough In 2025 With Kull, NYIFF And Farhan Akhtar’s 120 Bahadur
2025 has undoubtedly been a defining year for Ankit Siwach, a year that marks his evolution from a talented performer to one of the most promising names in the industry. Known for his sincerity and constant desire to challenge himself, Ankit has seamlessly transitioned across platforms, genres, and audiences. From his gripping performance in Kull to his international recognition at NYIFF and now his striking transformation in 120 Bahadur, Ankit’s journey this year has been nothing short of unstoppable.
Ankit Siwach Defines His Breakthrough In 2025
The year began with Kull, a project that showcased Ankit in one of his most complex roles. The thriller gave him the space to dive deep into layered emotions, earning him praise for his controlled yet impactful performance. It was proof that Ankit could shoulder a narrative that relied heavily on emotional depth and nuance.
Then came the recognition that truly put him on a global map, the NYIFF (New York Indian Film Festival). His appearance with Madam Driver at one of the most prestigious international film festivals not only highlighted his versatility but also positioned him among artists who are redefining Indian storytelling beyond borders. It was a proud moment that reflected years of consistency and craft.
And now, with 120 Bahadur, Ankit takes yet another leap forward. The teaser alone has created a buzz, with fans and critics alike calling it his fiercest transformation yet. Playing a soldier demanded not just physical preparation but emotional depth, something Ankit embodies naturally.
Together, these three milestones, Kull, NYIFF, and 120 Bahadur, have become symbols of Ankit Siwach’s relentless growth. 2025 isn’t just another chapter in his career; it’s the year he proved that passion and persistence can truly make an artist unstoppable.
For more news and updates from the entertainment world, stay tuned to Bollywood Bubble.
Also Read: Tony Kakkar, Ankit Tiwari Hail Vipin Aneja For His Soulful Voice In Never Cried From Yo Yo Honey Singh’s 51 Glorious Days
Mumbai Police Arrest Farhan Akhtar’s Mother Honey Irani’s Driver In Rs 12 Lakh Fraud- Report
A shocking case of fraud has come to light involving Bollywood writer and filmmaker Honey Irani’s driver. Mumbai Police have registered a case against her driver, Naresh Singh, and a petrol pump employee, Arun Singh, for allegedly misusing fuel cards worth Rs 12 lakh.
Case Against Farhan Akhtar’s Family Driver
As per reports, the driver had been swiping the cards multiple times at a petrol pump in Bandra without actually filling fuel in the vehicles. The scam reportedly went on for several months before it was noticed.
Honey Irani, who is the mother of actor-filmmaker Farhan Akhtar and director Zoya Akhtar, had issued the fuel cards for her household vehicles. However, the misuse came to light when her staff noticed irregular transactions and unusually high fuel expenses.
According to the FIR (No. 1668/2025) filed at the Bandra Police Station, the complaint was lodged by Irani’s manager, Diya Bhatia, on October 1, 2025. The complaint stated that Naresh Singh, in collusion with petrol pump employee Arun Singh, made repeated transactions using the cards without dispensing fuel, thereby causing a financial loss of around Rs 12 lakh.
The police have booked both under sections of cheating and criminal breach of trust under the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Investigations are currently underway to determine how long the fraud continued and whether more people were involved.
Honey Irani, known for writing films like Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai and Kya Kehna, has not yet issued a public statement regarding the incident.
The case has drawn attention in Bollywood circles, highlighting how even trusted employees can be involved in financial wrongdoing.
For more news and updates from the entertainment world, stay tuned to Bollywood Bubble.
Also Read: Farhan Akhtar’s Manipuri Film Boong Gets Selected As Spotlight Feature At IFFM 2025

Manisha has established a reputation for insightful and engaging storytelling with over six years of expertise in the industry. With a deep passion for cinema, she brings a unique perspective to her coverage, making it a trusted voice in the entertainment world.