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Venugopal K. Thakker: Four Decades of Celebrating Innovation in Cinema and Special Effects

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Madhu Mangesh Karnik Venugopal Thakkar

 

In a career spanning over four decades, Venugopal K. Thakker has witnessed
and shaped the evolution of Indian cinema and television. From shooting films
on celluloid to exploring the possibilities of digital special effects, Thakker has
seamlessly navigated the changing tides of technology, always staying ahead of
the curve.

Thakker’s journey began at the prestigious Film and Television Institute of
India (FTII), Pune, where he honed his skills as a cinematographer under the
tutelage of industry legends. It was here that he learned the delicate interplay
between light, shadow, and storytelling—a foundation that would define his
career.

“My early years were spent understanding the language of cinema,” Thakker
shares. “Every frame was a canvas, and every project was an opportunity to
paint a story.”

He started his professional journey working on feature films like Rangula Kala,
which won a National Award, and collaborating with stalwarts such as Shyam
Benegal and Basu Chatterjee.

The advent of video and digital technology in India coincided with Thakker’s
ascent in the industry. Where others saw disruption, he saw opportunity.
Thakker quickly adapted to the changing medium, setting up state-of-the-art
production and post-production facilities under PROVIDEO Mumbai.
“Technology is the great equalizer in filmmaking,” Thakker explains. “It allows
us to bring imagination to life, unburdened by traditional constraints.”

This adaptability enabled him to produce content across formats—short films,
documentaries, television serials, and commercials—each reflecting his mastery
of both the art and the tools of filmmaking.

Thakker’s foray into special effects and digital techniques marked a turning
point in his career. From creating compelling TV commercials like those for
TVS Suzuki and Hawkins Futura to directing visually enriched television
dramas, Thakker’s projects showcased how technology could be wielded
creatively.

“Special effects are not about dazzling the audience—they’re about enhancing
the story,” he emphasizes.

This philosophy is evident in his work on series like Soniyacha Umbara and
Manthan, where visual techniques served the narrative, not the other way
around.

Thakker’s work has taken him around the world, exposing him to the best
studios and practices in countries like the United States, the United Kingdom,
and Japan. This global exposure has enriched his perspective, allowing him to
incorporate international standards into Indian storytelling.

“My travels taught me that while the tools might change, the core of storytelling
remains universal,” Thakker reflects.

With an impressive collection of accolades, Thakker’s career is a testament to
his dedication. From National Awards to international recognition at film
festivals, his achievements span genres and mediums.

“Tobacco Habits & Oral Cancer,” a hard-hitting educational film, earned him a National Award in 1977, while his sports documentary Advantage Amritraj was
lauded at an international film festival in Panama. “Every recognition is a milestone, but it’s the audience’s reaction that truly validates the work,” he says.
Versatility Across Genres Thakker’s creative versatility has seen him traverse a wide array of genres, from historical series like Itihas Ke Gawah to food and travel shows such as Khadya

Bhramanti. Each project brought its own challenges, yet he embraced them with
enthusiasm. “Switching genres keeps you sharp,” Thakker says. “It forces you to rethink your approach with every new story.” Pioneering Web and Digital Narratives

Looking to the future, Thakker is exploring new frontiers in storytelling,
including web series and virtual production. His vision is to harness the
potential of emerging platforms while staying true to his narrative roots.
“The digital age has democratized content creation,” Thakker observes. “It’s
an exciting time to experiment and reach audiences globally.”

Throughout his career, Thakker has emphasized the importance of teamwork.
His collaborations with renowned directors and talented crews have resulted in
some of Indian television’s most memorable content. “Filmmaking is not a solitary pursuit. It’s the collective passion of many that brings a vision to life,” he asserts.

As Venugopal K. Thakker reflects on his remarkable journey, his story stands
as a source of inspiration for aspiring filmmakers. His ability to balance
tradition with innovation has set a benchmark in Indian cinema and television.
“For me, the greatest achievement is not just the awards or the accolades,”
Thakker says. “It’s knowing that my work has touched lives and created lasting
memories.”

In an industry defined by constant evolution, Thakker remains a stalwart,
proving that with vision and adaptability, the art of storytelling can thrive
across generations.

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Entertainment

Emergence Returns with the Third Edition of ‘Those Who Know, They Know’ – A New-Age Music Experience Driven by Innovation

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PNN 2025 06 23T174030.450

Emergence returns on June 28, 2025, in Mumbai with its third immersive music edition, redefining India’s event experience.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India] : After two groundbreaking editions, Emergence is back with the third edition of its flagship music property, ‘Those Who Know, They Know’, scheduled for 28th June, 2025, in Mumbai. What began as a bold experiment in immersive event production has now become one of the most anticipated music experiences in the country.

Founded by Akash Kothari, along with co-founders Rachit Desai and Vidhanth Jain, Emergence has steadily built its reputation as one of India’s most forward-thinking event companies, blending technology, sound, and storytelling into experiences that go far beyond conventional nightlife. With Neel Mistry playing a pivotal role in leading production, the event’s technical finesse and flawless execution have only become sharper with each edition.

Each year, Those Who Know, They Know evolves in scale and vision. The inaugural edition in 2023 featured a 200-foot LED wall, setting new standards for live production aesthetics. In 2024, the second edition stunned the audience with India’s first-ever 3D hologram Visual Experience — a feat that captured attention worldwide. Now, in its third year, the show promises to deliver even more: This year, the experience ascends further with cutting-edge 3D holograms, 3D Moonroof projections with show-day surprises still under wraps.

Despite its enigmatic name, this is not a niche or invite-only event. Those Who Know, They Know has seen exponential growth in attendance — 3,000+ attendees in its first yearover 5,000 in the second, and now aims to welcome 7,000+ music lovers in 2025. Tickets are available through official platforms BookMyShow and are open to all — it’s the experience that filters the crowd, not the guest list.

“Our goal is not just to throw an event; it’s to craft an experience that resonates long after it’s over,” says founder Akash Kothari. “We’ve always approached this with a creative mindset — keeping the core of the music culture intact while introducing world-class experience every year.”

Unlike typical commercial events that rely heavily on mainstream names or trends, Those Who Know, They Know focuses on conceptual deliverynarrative-driven design, and a community-first spirit.

The production is layered with custom visuals, high-concept stagecraft, lighting design, and a soundscape engineered to create a fully immersive environment — something Emergence has become known for across its properties.

With other iconic events like Rang Utsaav under its belt, Emergence has carved out a niche where culture, creativity, and community intersect. The company’s deep understanding of experience design, combined with its commitment to pushing boundaries, makes each of its properties stand apart in a saturated space.

Those Who Know, They Know — Edition 3 promises to be not just a show, but a defining moment in India’s experiential event calendar.

Tickets are available on the official platform, BookMyShow. More than a Festival, this is a movement — and it’s growing.

HURRY!!! Book your Tickets Now on the given link: https://in.bookmyshow.com/events/those-who-know-they-know-mumbai-2025/ET00433932

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Abhishek Malhan Takes a Stand Against Trolling Culture, Calls Out Influencer Sufi for Mocking Creators

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Abhishek-Malhan

Influencer and YouTuber Abhishek Malhan responds with dignity after facing misrepresented backlash over comments addressing online bullying.

In a rare but necessary moment of assertiveness, popular content creator Abhishek Malhan has taken a bold stand against toxic online behavior by calling out fellow influencer Sufi for repeatedly mocking and belittling creators. What began as a calm and respectful critique quickly escalated into a distorted controversy, fueled by misleading headlines and a fabricated narrative.

 

A viral article recently accused Abhishek of using a derogatory term in a now-circulating video snippet—an accusation that has been thoroughly debunked by viewers and fact-checkers alike. No such slur was used in the video, nor was any comment made that targeted gender identity or personal background. Instead, Abhishek addressed the consistent trolling behavior displayed by Sufi, who has been called out previously for his sarcastic takes on influencers’ appearances and content choices.

 

Twisted Headlines, Misrepresented Intent

The controversy stems from a video clip in which Abhishek candidly expresses frustration over Sufi’s constant judgment of other creators, particularly over outfits and personal moments. However, the backlash did not center around the actual content of the video—but on a false narrative suggesting that Abhishek had crossed a line.

 

“This is not about hate. It’s about putting an end to unnecessary negativity,” a source close to Abhishek stated. “He’s always been respectful. This was about drawing the line on behavior that has gone unchecked for far too long.”

 

What followed was a wave of support from fans and fellow creators who agreed with Abhishek’s point of view—many of whom have themselves been at the receiving end of Sufi’s content, including jokes around Triggered Insaan’s wedding and others’ personal fashion choices.

 

Breaking Down the Manufactured Narrative

The article in question not only used a misleading headline but failed to include Abhishek’s perspective or a response from his team—an oversight that undermines journalistic integrity. Here’s a breakdown of the key issues:

  • Fabricated Language Use: The article falsely claimed Abhishek used the slur ‘chakka’, which he never did. This claim has been proven false by the video itself.
  • Distorted Intent: Abhishek criticized judgmental behavior—not any individual’s identity or background.
  • Lack of Context: The article omitted the months of prior trolling behavior that Sufi engaged in, isolating a snippet to mislead readers.
  • No Balanced Reporting: The piece did not include Abhishek’s statement or comments from his side, reflecting biased reporting.
  • Ignored Audience Sentiment: Public frustration with Sufi’s style of content was left unaddressed, despite being a key part of the conversation.

 

When Standing Up Is Mistaken for Aggression

Abhishek’s statement was neither aggressive nor disrespectful. It was a mature response to a trend that many believe is polluting the content ecosystem—mockery in the name of “roasting.”

 

“Standing up for yourself and others doesn’t make you aggressive. It means you respect your space and the community you’re part of,” said a fellow influencer who publicly supported Abhishek.

 

The situation brings into focus a larger conversation around influencer culture, online etiquette, and the responsibility of creators to maintain a respectful discourse.

 

The Bigger Picture

While the controversy around a single statement may fade, the issue at its core remains significant: when is criticism constructive, and when does it become cruelty?

 

Abhishek Malhan’s stance may have sparked debate, but it also served as a much-needed reminder that calling out negative behavior isn’t wrong—and silence isn’t always golden. In a digital space where creators are expected to accept judgment without protest, his voice stood out for being calm, firm, and necessary.

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Sunil Kothari Unveils Title of His Most Awaited Film – AVYAAN

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Sunil Kothari Unveils Title of His Most Awaited Film AVYAAN

Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) [India] : Acclaimed businessman and philanthropist Sunil Kothari has officially revealed the title of his most anticipated cinematic venture — AVYAAN — a deeply emotional and culturally rooted film that pays tribute to the timeless soul of Bharat’s traditions.

The title was unveiled on his official Instagram Account (https://www.instagram.com/sunilkothari1962/), where the announcement quickly captured attention and admiration from fans, industry peers, and the global Indian community.

Produced by Sunil Kothari, AVYAAN is a heartfelt narrative that explores the beauty of simplicity, tradition, and inner reflection — offering a mirror to India’s cultural values and emotional depth.

Directed by Gaurav Khati, the film’s poetic visual tone is brought to life by celebrated cinematographer Chandan Kowli, whose lens captures every frame with grace and authenticity.

A collaboration with Urban Boat Films, AVYAAN is more than a film — it is a soulful journey shaped by storytelling that resonates with meaning, emotion, and purpose.

“AVYAAN is about returning to simplicity. It reflects who we are — through emotion, tradition, and the lens of culture,” shares Sunil Kothari.

The first-look poster, depicting a golden-hued riverside at dusk, beautifully sets the tone for a film that invites audiences into a world of spiritual and emotional discovery.

Stay tuned for more updates as AVYAAN unfolds — a cinematic experience anchored in the essence of Indian heritage, brought to life by Sunil Kothari and his creative team.

 

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