Beyond Cinema with Nihita Nihita Bajaj Kumar

Director: Shakun Batra

Screenplay: Shakun Batra & Ayesha Devitre Dhillon

Producer: Karan Johar for Dharma Productions

Cast: Rishi Kapoor, Fawad Khan, Sidharth Malhotra, Alia Bhatt, Rajat Kapoor & Ratna Pathak Shah

Cinematography: Jeffery F. Bierman

Songs: Amaal Mallik, Badshah, Arko, Tanishk Bagchi, Benny Dayal, Nucleya

Background Score: Sameer Uddin



"Kapoor & Sons" is a 2016 Indian Hindi-language drama film that stands out as a masterclass in contemporary cinema. Directed by Shakun Batra and produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions, the film features an ensemble cast including Rishi Kapoor, Sidharth Malhotra, Fawad Khan, Alia Bhatt, Ratna Pathak Shah, and Rajat Kapoor. With a delicate balance of humor, emotion, and realism, "Kapoor & Sons" delves into the intricacies of family dynamics, personal aspirations, and the underlying tensions that often remain unspoken.

Writer, Director & Producer: Shoaib Mansoor

Cast: Humaima Malik, Atif Aslam, Iman Ali, Mahira Khan, Shafqat Cheema, Manzar Sehbai, Zaib Rehman, Amr Kashmiri

Music: Atif Aslam, Shoaib Mansoor, Sajjad Ali, Jafiey, Ahmed Jahanzeb, Hadiqa Kiyani, Ali Javed



Bol, a Pakistani film directed by Shoaib Mansoor, was released in 2011 and quickly garnered attention for its bold and unflinching exploration of social issues in Pakistani society. This film is not just a narrative but a profound statement on the systemic problems that plague many families and communities. It dives into the depths of gender discrimination, economic hardship, and the struggle between tradition and modernity.

Director: Tanuja Chandra

Writer: Mahesh Bhatt, Girish Dhamija

Cast: Akshay Kumar, Preity Zinta & Ashutosh Rana 

Lyrics: Sameer

Music: Jatin- Lalit

"Sangharsh," directed by Tanuja Chandra and penned by Mahesh Bhatt, stands as a hallmark in the genre of psychological thrillers within Hindi cinema. Released in 1999, this film diverged sharply from the conventional narratives prevalent at the time, delivering a chilling exploration of crime, sacrifice, and redemption.

Lajja (2001)

Story, Direction & Dialogues: Rajkumar Santoshi

Cast: Manisha Koirala, Rekha, Madhuri Dixit, Mahima Chaudhary, Anil Kapoor, Jackie Shroff, Ajay Devgan, Danny Denzongpa, Suresh Oberoi, Gulshan Grover, Samir Soni, Rohini Hattangadi, Govind Namdeo, Sharman Joshi, Johnny Lever & Farida Jalal

Lyrics: Sameer & Prasoon Joshi

Music: Anu Malik

Background Score: Illaiyaraaja

Written Description:

Released in 2001, "Lajja," directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, is a film that delves into the societal injustices faced by women in India. The movie interweaves the stories of four women, each representing different facets of oppression and resistance within a patriarchal framework.

Director: Mahesh Bhatt
Writer: Mahesh Bhatt & Tanuja Chandra
Cast: Paresh Rawal, Pooja Bhatt, Manoj Bajpayee, Sharad Kapoor, Zohra Sehgal, Ashutosh Rana, Akshay Anand, Sulabha Deshpande & Kamal Chopra
Lyrics: Nida Fazli, Rahat Indori & Indeevar
Music: Anu Malik

In this episode, we're delving into the 1997 Hindi film "Tamanna," a touching and pioneering work directed by Mahesh Bhatt. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Bombay, this film unfolds the compelling themes of identity, acceptance, and the profound connections formed through unconventional love. It tells the story of Tikku, a Hijra who adopts and raises an abandoned infant, navigating the challenges and joys that follow. Today, we'll explore the film's impactful narrative, the standout performance by Paresh Rawal, and its lasting influence on cinema and culture.

Story, Screenplay & Direction: Anurag Basu

Producer: Ronnie Screwvala 

Cast: Dharmendra, Shilpa Shetty, Irrfan Khan, Kay Kay Menon, Konkona Sen Sharma, Kangana Ranaut, Sharman Joshi, Nafisa Ali, Shiney Ahuja

Music: Pritam

Lyrics: Sayeed Quadri

Background Score: Raju Singh



Anurag Basu, a director known for his eclectic filmography, ranging from bold thrillers to experimental narratives, brings to life the everyday struggles and dreams of metropolitan inhabitants. "Life In A Metro" is a testament to his ability to craft deep, meaningful stories without losing the commercial sheen that appeals to a broad audience.