These films are some of Hindi cinema’s best attempts to portray an LGBTQIA+ narrative. 


The critically acclaimed shorts from Netflix’s ‘Ajeeb Dastan’ features Konkana Sen Sharma and Aditi Rao Hydari, and explores the themes of caste, sexuality and patriarchy. 


1. Geeli Pucchi

Hansal Mehta’s 2015 autobiographical drama 'Aligarh' tells the story of a professor who gets suspended from his job because of his sexual orientation. It is a story of companionship and loneliness. 

2. Aligarh

Starring Juhi Chawla, Sanjay Suri, and Purab Kohli, the 2005 Hindi film explored the topics of homosexuality and AIDS in a sensitive and empathetic manner. 

3. My Brother… Nikhil

An unusual story in a mainstream setting, ‘Badhaai Do’ tells the story of a gay police inspector Shardul (Rajkummar Rao) and Sumi (Bhumi Pednekar), a lesbian and a physical education teacher, who settle for a marriage of compromise to appease their respective families. 

4. Badhaai Do

Starring Mona Ambegaonkar, Ananth Mahadevan and Devansh Doshi in pivotal roles, the film is about a son coming out to his mother in a small town, but more about the mother coming out as a woman within a patriarchal society. 

5. Evening Shadows

The Vaani Kapoor and Ayushmann Khurrana-starrer made a humble attempt to smash the transgender stereotype with a powerful narrative. It showcased the love story of a man and a transgender woman. 

6. Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui

The Bollywood family entertainer depicts the story of a same-sex couple Kartik and Aman, who are struggling to convince their families to accept their relationship. 

7.  Shubh Mangal Zyada Savdhaan

Arvind Swamy’s third Hindi film saw him in the role of a father who comes out to his teenage son during a road trip. 

8.  Dear Dad

This Kalki Koechlin-starrer tells the story of a queer disabled women and her journey of self-discovery.  


9. Margarita with a Straw

These Hindi films put the spotlight on LGBTQIA+ experiences. 



These Hindi films put the spotlight on LGBTQIA+ experiences from different angles. Read more on zeezest.com. 


Best Queer Films Hindi Cinema Has Given Us So Far

9 Best Queer Films Hindi Cinema Has Given Us So Far

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The final trailer of the much-anticipated film ‘Adipurush’ is out. The trailer was unveiled in Tirupati at a grand launch event organized by the makers.

Scheduled to release on June 16, 2023, ‘Adipurush’ is an upcoming mythological drama film based on the Hindu epic ‘Ramayana’.  

The film stars Prabhas as Rama, Kriti Sanon as Janaki (Sita), Sunny Singh as Shesh, and Saif Ali Khan as Raavana. 

‘Adipurush’ will be released in five languages including Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam. 

The film traces the life of Lord Rama (the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu), mainly the part where his wife Sita gets abducted by demon king Raavan aka Lankesh and he sets off to rescue her with an army of monkeys.

The epic ‘Ramayana’ is considered to be a symbol of the victory of good over evil and has been inspiring many since time immemorial. 

‘Adipurush’ has been directed by Om Raut and produced by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, Om Raut, Prasad Sutar, and Rajesh Nair. 

Are you ready to watch the epic Ramayana on the big screen again?

The trailer was unveiled in Tirupati at a grand launch event organized by the makers. Read more on zeezest.com.

 Adipurush Final Trailer Is Out | Prabhas | Kriti Sanon | Zee Zest

Adipurush Final Trailer Is Out

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Trailer

Rambagh Palace in Jaipur has been rated as the best hotel in the world as per the 2023 Travelers' Choice Best of the Best Hotel Awards. 

Rambagh Palace beat some of the biggest hotel brands in the world such as Marriott International and Shangri La Hotels and Resorts. 

The coveted awards list is issued by TripAdvisor, one of the world’s largest travel websites. They studied reviews of real travellers between January-December 2022 covering more than 1.5 million hotels, to determine travelers' highest-rated accommodations of the year.

Rambagh Palace, which is run by Indian Hotels, received over 5,000 five-bubble reviews on TripAdvisor that give it the edge over other hotels. 


Built in 1835, the palace is also called the ‘Jewel of Jaipur’. It started its journey as a home to queen’s favourite handmaiden and then became a royal guesthouse and hunting lodge. In 1925, Rambagh Palace became the permanent residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur.


Apart from the grandeur and expanse, Rambagh Palace is also popular world over for its polo bar, historic suites, and high tea.


IHCL and the Taj hotels has been managing the property since the 1970s. The hotel is known for its elegantly appointed rooms, marbled corridors, airy verandas, and majestic gardens set in 47 acres echo with history.


Travel website TripAdvisor has declared Rambagh Palace to be the best accommodation in the world.


Beating some of the biggest hotels in the world, Jaipur’s Rambagh Palace has become the best hotel in the world in 2023.

TripAdvisor Declares Rambagh Palace As The Best Hotel In the World

Jaipur’s Rambagh Palace Is World’s No. 1 Hotel

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Madhu Mantena And Ira Trivedi Tie The Knot | Zee Zest

Film Producer Madhu Mantena Marries Yoga Expert Ira Trivedi

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From travel anecdotes to iconic styles, Zeenat Aman’s Instagram posts are always a healthy dose of nostalgia. 


The yesteryear actress recently took to Instagram and shared a glimpse from her Goa trip. The caption of her post read, “An easy breezy afternoon in Goa with good food, a glass of wine and my family.”


Talking about how she used to be an explorer, she wrote, “I used to be the sort of traveller who packed their itinerary with “must sees”, “must visits” and “must dos”. It was a great strategy in my youth, and allowed me to explore the world with my sons!”


But now, she’s into slow travel, “Now I am much more relaxed in my approach to travel. Lazy breakfasts, catching up on my reading, playing board games, getting a massage, stepping out for a meal, watching a good show… these take priority over any chaotic bucket list.”


Further in her post, Zeenat also went on to share an anecdote from her Italy trip, “Italy, 2005. The boys and I were spending a few days in Rome before joining a cruise. Having seen the Colosseum, we were now seated in a lovely cafe in one of the city’s beautiful piazzas.”


Recalling how a busker emptied her wallet in Italy, she shared, “At the corner of the square, an Italian busker was playing the accordion. As I spooned gelato into my mouth, I heard the unmistakable notes of ‘Yaadon ki Baaraat’! I was so charmed by the moment that I emptied my wallet into his hat!”


She continued, “To this day, I’m not sure whether he recognised me or was just playing a Bollywood tune for the Indian family at the piazza!” She ends the post asking her fans to share memorable travel anecdotes in the comments.



On the work front, Zeenat is all set to make her OTT debut with a web series titled 'Showstopper' which also stars Shweta Tiwari and Rohit Roy in pivotal roles. 


From travel anecdotes to iconic styles, Zeenat Aman’s Instagram posts are a breath of fresh air. 


From travel anecdotes to iconic styles, Zeenat Aman’s Instagram posts are a breath of fresh air. Read more on zeezest.com 


Travel Tales & Anecdotes From Zeenat Aman | Zee Zest

Zeenat Aman’s Anecdote From Her Italy Trip Is Pure Nostalgia

Zeenat Aman

 Travel

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Director Wes Anderson has gained sudden traction on social media with everyone dabbling with reels and short format videos that follow his distinctive cinematographic aesthetics and quirky storytelling style.


Theses can be written on the Wes Anderson aesthetics. The hallmarks of his filmmaking are still camera positioning, a pastel colour palette, over-the-top use of symmetry, slow motion for emphasis and retro influence in background music and costumes.


If you want to better understand Wes Anderson’s work and enjoy some of Hollywood’s cult classics, here are our recommendations for seven films directed by Anderson.

With an esteemed ensemble star cast, 'Asteroid City' is set at Junior Stargazer convention drawing students and parents from across the US who are quarantined due to extenuating circumstances.

1. Asteroid City (2023)

An anthology featuring stories of three journalists who are foreign correspondents based in France. The film is about their final stories for the last issue of the newspaper they work for, Liberty Kansas Evening Sun.

2. The French Dispatch (2021)

The stop-motion animated film follows a boy who is in search of his lost dog. He is accompanied by a band of stray dogs on this mission.

3. Isle of Dogs (2018)

One of Wes Anderson’s most popular films, 'The Grand Budapest Hotel' follows the shenanigans of a hotel concierge, his protegee bellboy, and the curious residents of the hotel.


4. The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014)

Another stop-motion animation based on author Roald Dahl’s book, 'Fantastic Mr Fox' follows a fox family who is being hunted by three farmers.

5. Fantastic Mr Fox (2009)

Three estranged brothers try to reconcile with each other as well as their mother, a year after their father’s death, while on a luxury train journey across India.

6. The Darjeeling Limited (2007)

Three child prodigies grow up to be mediocre adults. Their eccentric father who abandoned them as children suddenly resurfaces to reconnect with the family in his old age.


7. The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)

The Wes Anderson reel is everywhere, but what makes this director’s filmmaking style so unique and worth copying?


The unique stories and filmmaking styles are just some of the elements that make Wes Anderson’s films cinematic masterpieces.


7 Must Watch Wes Anderson Movies | Zee Zest

7 Wes Anderson Films You Must Watch Before Attempting The Trending Reel

Wes Anderson

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While traditional yoga, in its essence, is a holistic practice that can benefit all ages, the new styles of yoga can bring a modern twist that can make it more appealing and accessible to people, Dr Jitendra Varshney, wellness director of Six Senses Vana tells us as he shares newer types and variations of yoga. 

Here, yoga is combined with other fitness modalities such as dance and functional training to incorporate the best of everything in the fitness practice. 

1. Yoga Fusion

In this type of yoga, poses (asanas) are performed in a hammock while you are suspended in the air. It improves flexibility, strength, and balance, and adds a sense of fun and enjoyment to the workout. 

2. Aerial Yoga

Acrobatic aka Acro Yoga combines elements of yoga, acrobatics, and Thai massage into a physical practice. It is practised in pairs or groups, and involves physical contact. 

3. Acrobatic Yoga

In Aqua Yoga, the yoga poses are performed in a shallow swimming pool. It may help improve your strength and reduce anxiety, among other health benefits. 

4. Aqua Yoga

Couple Yoga as its name suggests is performed in pairs. It is a form of yoga where two people perform poses that require the support of each other or mirror one another in poses in a cooperative manner.

5. Couple Yoga

This a combination of Yoga and Pilates and it emphasises on core strengthening exercises to create a well-rounded mind and body workout. 

6. Yogalates

There’s no harm in trying new styles of yoga if these promote physical and mental health benefits. Also, you must consult an expert before opting for a new form of workout to ensure safety and proper guidance. 

The ancient practice of yoga is evolving, and these are the newer variations and types you can try. 

The ancient practice of yoga is evolving, and these are the newer variations and types you can try. Read more on zeezest.com.

 6 Modern Yoga Styles You Must Know About

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Netflix held its annual programme showcase, Tudum: Global Fan Event in Brazil on June 17, 2023. Here the OTT platform shared information about new films and shows as well as new seasons and sequels of Netflix favourites. Here is a look at the top shows and films scheduled for this year.

The Shondaland period romance series is back with season three. This time it will look at the will they-won’t they romance between Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton. And what will happen to the infamous Lady Whistledown? The tentative release of Bridgerton Season 3 is scheduled for second half of 2023.

Bridgerton

In its final season, Indian American high school student, Devi Vishwakumar has to get admission in Princeton and ensure she does so without bringing on more chaos in her life and those around her. It aired on June 8, 2023.

Never Have I Ever

Season 4 of this popular series, which has beautiful locations in Paris and even more splendid fashion inspiration, is going to address a lot of unanswered questions from season three. But actor Lilly Collins, who plays the titular role of Emily, at Tudum 2023, revealed that lots of unexpected twists are to be expected. The tentative release date is set for December 2023.

Emily In Paris

The dashing Henry Cavill reprises his role as Geralt, The Witcher in season three. He bands up with Yennefer to protect Cirilla; with bard Jaskier in tow. Release is divided in two parts, Volume 1 releases June 29, 2023 while Volume 2 releases on July 27, 2023.

The Witcher

The dark but quirky Wednesday Addams returns for yet another year of adventure at Nevermore Academy. Actor Jenna Ortega along with Emma Myers, Catherina Zeta-Jones and Luiz Guzman are going to share the screen again. Unfortunately, it will be a long wait till January 2024 to see the death- and goth-obsessed teen on screens.

Wednesday

The Korean series that won global accolades and fans is going to be back with a whole new series of near-death games and new characters. A couple of season one alumnae will also make a comeback. The release date for the show has not been revealed yet.

Squid Game 

The hunky Chris Helmsworth is back as Tyler Rake to rescue a family out of a tricky situation. Only this time it is a scenario very close to home and forces Tyler to make peace with his past. A third film in the franchise has also been confirmed. The film premiered on June 16, 2023.

Extraction 2

In the final season of Penn Badgley as Joe Goldberg sees the anti-hero come back to New York with his current partner. Goldberg finally admits that his life is filled with immoral moments. This show is also slated for a 2024 release.

The dark and dystopian series continues to question and foresee human dependency on technology as well as depravity in season six. This time Black Mirror's stellar star cast includes Salma Hayek and Josh Hartnett. The season premiered on June 15, 2023.

Black Mirror 

One of the two new features in the Tudum 2023 lineup that has us excited is Zoya Akhtar’s The Archies. It is slated to be a re-imagination of the iconic comic book series, set in an Anglo-India hill station in India, and features a new breed of young actors. Yet again, no release date has been shared but it is expected to release this year.

The Archies

Alia Bhatt is making her Hollywood debut alongside Gal Gadot and Jamie Dornan in Heart of Stone. The action film will see Bhatt play the role of a hacker, Keya Dhawan. The spy thriller will premiere on Netflix on August 11, 2023.

Heart Of Stone

Netflix’s Tudum: Global Fan Event 2023 releases information on shows and films that you must put on your must-watch list for 2023.

Must Watch Netflix series in 2023 | Zee Zest

Netflix’s Tudum 2023 Announces New Seasons Of Your Favourite Shows

New Release

 Netflix

 Emily In Paris

Tv Shows Must Watch

Increasing humidity, soaring temperatures, and heavy rains can damage the skin and scalp, causing infections, acne, and clogged pores.


Alter your skin and hair care routine to adapt to the new weather conditions in time for monsoon with these expert tips. 

So what if the sun's not coming out? The UVA and UV exposure still remain and you must apply sunscreen from time to time to protect your skin. Pick a sunscreen that has lighter texture. 

1. Use sunscreen

Switch to lighter skincare products and keep your routine minimal during the monsoon because too much layering may lead to skin irritation.  

2. Lightweight products

A well-hydrated skin helps in this season because it does not produce excess oil on its own then to compensate. 


3. Serums are key

Your scalp may need extra TLC during monsoon. Wash your hair regularly and exfoliate one or twice a week to cleanse and smoothen your scalp.  


4. Scalp care

The rainy season may trigger frizz and hairfall, so it is not a good time to do hair treatments. Keep hair treatments to the minimum and opt for hydrating treatments and spas more to calm the cuticles. 


5. Salon hair treatments

Detoxification of the skin is essential during monsoon. Use a clarifying face mask or exfoliate with a clay mask to ensure a healthy, balanced skin. 

6. Exfoliators and masks

Tweak your skincare routine in time for monsoon so they are no regrets. 


Tweak your skincare routine in time for monsoon so they are no regrets. Read more on zeezest.com. 


5 Skincare And Haircare Tips For Monsoon | Zee Zest

6 Expert Tips For Healthy Skin And Hair This Monsoon

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Apart from being an astute businesswoman, executive director at Serum Institute of India and the chairperson of Villoo Poonawalla Foundation, Natasha Poonawalla is a veritable fashionista.

Poonawalla’s avant-garde style statement beats many international and Indian celebrities hollow. Here are some of her recent iconic fashion moments.


All eyes were on Natasha Poonawalla at the 2022 Met Gala in New York. In her interpretation of the theme, Gilded Glamour, Poonawalla donned a delicate tulle Sabyasachi saree in gold with custom embroidery and a trailing pallu. The look was tied together with an dramatic architectural Schiaparelli corset bustier in gold. The drama continued with Sabyasachi fine jewellery. 


At the annual music and arts festival, Coachella 2023, Natasha Poonawalla was seen in a futuristic latex dress by Noir Kei Ninomiya. The dress stands out due to its beaded-barbwire extension that cages Poonawalla. The total look is tied together with an edgy pair of sunglasses and boots. 


At a cocktail event prior to Met Gala 2023, Natasha Poonawalla went vintage in an all-Chanel ensemble. The black and gold strapless dress in from Chanel’s 1986 collection while the doll bag is from 2012.


Met Gala 2023 saw Natasha Poonawalla continue her futuristic approach to fashion in this silver Schiaparelli gown. The theme was ‘in honour of Karl Lagerfeld’ and this dress was Poonawalla’s homage to him. She has been an adoring fan of the late fashion designer.


For King Charles III’s coronation concert, Natasha Poonawalla went with a sheer pink saree on a bodysuit by Burberry and Riccardo Tisci. She described the look as ‘British Asian’.


Natasha was also in attendance at Cannes Film Festival 2023. She stepped out on the Cannes promenade in a Marc Jacobs neon green strapless number and outrageous white chunky heels.


Another Cannes look that Natasha Poonawalla nailed was the kitschy Versace jumpsuit for the Dua Lipa x Versace collection launch. She had a contrasting Versace bralette, sunglasses and bag to complete the look.


In a modern interpretation of all things orient, Natasha Poonawalla donned a metallic mini dress and paired it with a red and white kimono jacket. She wore a maang tika and long earrings along with white stiletto boots to complete the look.

Every time the entrepreneur and fashionista makes a public appearance, she leaves the world spellbound.


She manages the board rooms and red carpets with equal grace and poise. Every look of this real world fashionista is swoon-worthy.
