Music streaming service Saavn has unveiled a new slate of original programming, which includes a fresh collection of shows from actor Neha Dhupia and film critic Anupama Chopra, along with the addition of Indian singer-songwriter Raghu Dixit to its Artist-in-Residence (AiR) program.
Starting August 11, Saavn Originals will premiere "Film Companion with Anupama Chopra". Apart from movie reviews, the show will feature interviews with A-list film stars, as well an in-depth look at what's worth watching in India's movie scene.
"One of the big things that work in India is films and Bollywood and that's something that we have been working on since day one. We are very excited about Anupama's show. She is a renowned film critic and journalist, and she is rooted in the film industry," Gaurav Wadhwa, Vice President of Entertainment and Originals at Saavn, told IANS.
Neha, who is known for roles in films like "Julie", "Kyaa Kool Hai Hum", "Delhii Heights" and "Phas Gaye Re Obama", will host her talk show "#NoFilter Neha" where she will be in conversation with celebrities from Bollywood, and the worlds of fashion, sports and music in her notoriously wicked style.
Talking about the show, Wadhwa said: "It is a no-holds-barred, no-filter show. Neha's personality is like that. There is a very funny side to her and she is very witty."
"The first season will go on air in mid-September and will feature 12 episodes," he added.
According to Wadhwa, Dixit -- who is known for songs like "Mysore se aayi", "Hey bhagwan" and "Gudugudiya" -- was brought on board on Saavn's AiR, a programme for independent and breakthrough artistes, in an attempt to expand their repertoire.
"Raghu caters to a very different audience because of his sound, which is so different and if you follow him you will realise he does packed shows no matter where he goes. He does everything from slow-romantic to heavy energy, but it is still very folk-influenced," Wadhwa said.
On Friday, Dixit embarks on a "Masterplan for Happiness" tour taking place in the US, Canada and Britain.
Some other Saavn Originals, debuting this month and September, include "Ek Kahaani Aisi Bhi" and "Passport Approved with Sat Bisla".
--IANS
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