Kathal – A Jackfruit Mystery

Kathal - A Jackfruit Mystery is a delightful Indian Hindi satirical comedy-drama. Directed by Yashowardhan Mishra and written by Ashok Mishra, this Netflix film takes us on a whimsical journey filled with laughter and intrigue. The plot revolves around the disappearance of prized jackfruit trees from a local politician's garden. Sanya Malhotra shines as a determined young policewoman, eager to prove herself in a male-dominated profession. Her relentless pursuit to crack this peculiar case forms the crux of the film, captivating the audience. The ensemble cast, including Anant V Joshi, Vijay Raaz, Rajpal Yadav, Brijendra Kala, Neha Saraf, and Raghubir Yadav, delivers exceptional performances that add depth and charm to the narrative. What sets Kathal apart is its seamless blend of satire, comedy, and drama. The film cleverly uses humour to highlight social and political issues, offering sharp commentary. With its stellar performances, captivating storyline, and brilliant direction, Kathal - A Jackfruit Mystery is a must-watch for lovers of intelligent comedy and satirical storytelling. It is a true gem that will leave audiences smiling long after the credits roll.

IB71 is a riveting Indian Hindi spy thriller that will keep you glued to your seat. Directed by Sankalp Reddy and based on an engaging story by Aditya Shastri, the film features an outstanding ensemble cast, including Vidyut Jammwal, Vishal Jethwa, Faizan Khan, Anupam Kher, Ashwath Bhatt, Danny Sura, Dalip Tahil, and Suvrat Joshi. Set in 1971, the story revolves around Dev Jammwal, a charismatic IB agent tasked with protecting India from potential attacks by Pakistan and China through strategic airspace control. Vidyut Jammwal delivers a stellar performance, capturing the essence of his character and displaying the required physical prowess. The supporting cast, featuring Vishal Jethwa, Faizan Khan, and Anupam Kher, brings depth and nuance to the narrative, enhancing the overall impact. Director Sankalp Reddy skilfully captures the tension and atmosphere of the era. IB71 is a must-watch for fans of spy thrillers and action-packed cinema. With its gripping story, solid performances, and thrilling action, the film delivers an engrossing ride that will leave you eagerly anticipating more from this talented team.

Jogira Sara Ra Ra is a delightful Indian romantic comedy directed by Kushan Nandy and featuring the brilliant Nawazuddin Siddiqui and charming Neha Sharma. The film tells a tale of love, mischief, and unexpected connections, offering a treat for audiences seeking light-hearted entertainment. Siddiqui shines as Jogi, a gruff wedding planner who has sworn off marriage due to the chaos caused by the women in his household. But when he encounters the free-spirited Dimple (Neha Sharma), his resolve is tested. Their palpable chemistry and captivating journey form the heart of the story. It is a light-hearted and entertaining experience, delivering laughter and warmth throughout. The ensemble cast, along with Siddiqui and Sharma's excellent performances, adds to the film's charm. Jogira Sara Ra Ra is a must-watch for fans of romantic comedies. With its engaging storyline, comedic chaos, and delightful performances, it offers a joyful ride that leaves you with a smile. It reminds us of the beauty and unpredictability of love, making it a delightful choice for those in search of a feel-good cinematic experience.

Aazam, directed by Shravan Tiwari, is an Indian Hindi crime thriller that delves into the dark and gripping world of the underworld. The film boasts a talented ensemble cast including Jimmy Sheirgill, Abhimanyu Singh, Indraneil Sengupta, and Raza Murad, who bring their characters to life with impressive performances. The story of Aazam revolves around the intense succession battle of the notorious mafia don, Nawab Khan. Filled with conspiracy, betrayal, and deceit, the film takes audiences on a thrilling rollercoaster ride as the underworld gang fights for control of the city's syndicate. Tiwari's direction keeps the viewers on the edge of their seats, as he skilfully builds tension and suspense throughout the narrative. The screenplay is tightly woven, offering unexpected twists and turns that keep the audience guessing until the very end. It’s a gripping crime thriller that successfully captures the essence of the underworld, providing an engaging and thrilling cinematic experience. With its intriguing plot, solid performances, and skillful direction, Aazam is a must-watch for fans of the genre.

Author : R. F. Kuang

Price : `1,613 (Hardcover)

R.F. Kuang's "Yellowface" is a timely and thought-provoking novel that tackles the weighty themes of identity, cultural appropriation, and the erasure of Asian-American voices in the publishing world. The story revolves around June Hayward, overshadowed by her fellow author Athena Liu, and her audacious decision to seize an opportunity when she witnesses Athena's untimely demise. Adopting Athena's just-completed masterpiece—a work shedding light on the forgotten contributions of Chinese laborers in World War I—June assumes a new identity as Juniper Song, complete with an enigmatic ethnic author photo. Kuang's immersive storytelling and sharp prose effortlessly draw readers into the captivating narrative, accompanying June Hayward as she navigates the aftermath of stealing her fellow author's magnum opus. "Yellowface" serves as a wake-up call, forcing us to confront uncomfortable truths about cultural appropriation and the dire need for genuine diversity in literature. The book fearlessly examines industry biases and power dynamics, posing critical questions about representation and inclusivity. By delving into the untold stories of Asian-Americans, Kuang challenges us to reimagine the literary landscape and embrace a future where all voices are celebrated and respected. "Yellowface" is an impactful and important read that encourages deep reflection on the cultural appropriation prevalent in our society and the urgent need for change.

Author : Carley Fortune

Price : `2,308 (Hardcover)

Carley Fortune's "Meet Me at the Lake" is a heartfelt and captivating novel that beautifully explores the themes of second chances and the intricacies of relationships. Against the idyllic backdrop of a Muskoka lakeside resort, readers embark on an emotional journey with Fern Brookbanks, a woman wrestling with dashed dreams and unforeseen possibilities. As Fern, now in her thirties, reluctantly manages her mother's resort, she carries the weight of a missed connection with Will Baxter, an enigmatic artist who left an indelible mark on her during their transformative encounter years ago. When Will reappears in Fern's life, a decade later, with a suitcase and a desire to help, she must confront her doubts about this changed man and the secrets he guards. Fortune's storytelling prowess shines through every page, masterfully crafting a tender and enchanting second-chance romance. "Meet Me at the Lake" delves into forgiveness, trust, and the transformative power of love, leaving readers captivated by Fern and Will's heartfelt journey as they navigate their past and forge a new future together. This novel is a delightful and satisfying read that will resonate with fans of contemporary romance.