Music

A special broadcast highlights the box office run of the devotional film Hanuman Ansh, made on a budget of about two crore rupees, which crossed 231 crore rupees in India net collection and over 272.9 crore rupees in India gross by day 40. The film's director, Dr Vishal Chaturvedi, discussed how word-of-mouth publicity, spiritual devotion, and audience support across generations propelled the film after opening to just 10 lakh rupees. Chaturvedi detailed his spiritual inspiration drawn from Neem Karoli Baba at Kainchi Dham, which shaped the movie's narrative and music, including Bundelkhand folk traditions. Addressing the refusal by major streaming services, he expressed disappointment over the initial rejection of Neem Karoli Baba's story, noting the saint's global influence on figures like Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg. Chaturvedi also emphasised the immense potential of clean, family-oriented cinema rooted in Indian civilization and culture, and shared plans for his upcoming project focusing on Goswami Tulsidas.

In an interview with Karan Thapar, Pune resident and anti-noise campaigner Vidyanand Bapat defended his opposition to loud celebrations, including DJs, loudspeakers, and Dhol Tasha during Ganesh Utsav and other public festivals. Addressing the pushback and a recent physical assault against him, Bapat stated, "We are opposing all noise pollution, not all festivals." He emphasized that modern work patterns, particularly in the IT and ITES sectors operating around the clock from home, leave residents vulnerable to excessive sound on public streets. Bapat proposed an objective criterion to distinguish peaceful celebrations from noisy ones based on the use of artificial sound amplifying equipment, suggesting loud events move to soundproof auditoriums or open grounds.

In an interview with India Today in Cupertino, musician AP Dhillon shared his views on technology and artificial intelligence in music production. Dhillon remarked, "We can't fight technology, man," while calling for regulation, stating, "There need to be AI policing." He explained that tools like MacBooks and virtual instruments are already central to music creation, emphasizing that artists secure in their craft should not fear AI as long as authenticity is preserved. Dhillon also confirmed an upcoming album and an India visit scheduled for October.

Speaking to India Today after the mob attack on 54-year-old Vikram Singh in Delhi, social activist and neighbor Sangeeta Keshom recounted how a group of eight people assaulted him outside his residence. Describing the victim as a calm artist and music lover whose family has resided in the locality since his son was in primary school, Keshom addressed the recurring racial harassment faced by people from Manipur and the Northeast in the national capital. Calling out discrimination and derogatory slurs, she stressed, "We are also Indian, so the protection the other Indians are getting, we also should get that protection." With the accused persons arrested, she demanded strict punishment to deter hate-driven attacks, urging communities and neighbors to stand united against violence.

A Manipuri musician, C. Vikram Singh, was beaten to death in Delhi, triggering massive political reactions and concerns over safety. The Manipur Chief Minister has written to the Delhi Chief Minister seeking personal intervention and demanding an expedited high-level investigation into the incident. Rahul Gandhi raised questions over law and order in the national capital, asking what the Ministry of Home Affairs and Delhi Police are doing to stop lawlessness against people from the Northeast. Responding to the matter, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju stated that all eight accused involved in the fight over music and noise have been arrested and police will file a chargesheet within two weeks.

A 54-year-old Meitei musician and music teacher from Manipur, Songtham Vikram Singh, died after being brutally assaulted outside his house in Delhi. The incident occurred when Singh objected to shouting and nuisance created by delivery workers and dhaba staff. After confronting them, he was assaulted with fists and blows and later succumbed to his injuries in the hospital. Police have arrested eight accused, including a juvenile, with CCTV footage capturing them leaving the scene. Manipur Chief Minister Khemchand Yumnam expressed condolences over Singh's demise, highlighting his contribution to music and culture. Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi criticised the central government over the safety of Northeast families living in the national capital and demanded stringent action against the culprits.

A 54-year-old retired music teacher from Manipur, Vikram Singh, was beaten to death in Delhi's Kilokari village after objecting to noise and commotion outside his home. The altercation involved people associated with a local dhaba and delivery personnel. The victim was rushed to Holy Family Hospital by his family, where he succumbed to his injuries. The Sunlight Colony police have registered a murder case and taken seven accused individuals into custody, including minors. Following the incident, people from the northeast community gathered outside the police station demanding strict action, while former Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh condemned the attack and urged police to ensure justice.

A controversy over food and faith has erupted in West Bengal ahead of the Durga Puja festive season following remarks by Bageshwar Dham chief Dhirendra Shastri during his Hanuman Katha in Howrah's Liluah. The preacher questioned the practice of eating non-vegetarian food near Durga idols and pandals during Navratri, calling on devotees to boycott such practices. West Bengal BJP leaders pushed back against the remarks, asserting that the state's traditional food habits cannot be dictated and noting that non-vegetarian offerings and mutton consumption remain part of traditional rituals like Navami and Ma Kali worship. Meanwhile, fresh directives for this year's Durga Puja celebrations have been announced in the state, which include a ban on liquor sales on Maha Ashtami, prohibiting DJ music during idol immersion processions, and scrapping the Durga Puja carnival on Kolkata's Red Road. Eligible Durga Puja committees are also set to receive a financial grant of one lakh rupees alongside free electricity.

Ladakh is hosting the Sakasa Festival, a first-of-its-kind wellness event organised at a high altitude along the banks of the Indus River. Combining electronic music, yoga, wellness expert sessions, and local art and culture, the alcohol-free festival caters to people seeking relief and rejuvenation from stressful daily routines. Attendees and performers, including DJ Sheryl, noted a growing trend among the younger generation prioritising health and holistic wellness over conventional alcohol-focused gatherings, paving the way for more detox-focused festivals across the country.

Two shooters, identified as 24-year-old Sumit and 22-year-old Mohit, involved in the murder of Haryanvi singer Ankit Balayan, were killed in an encounter with the Shamli police and SWAT team in Uttar Pradesh. Both suspects carried a reward of fifty thousand rupees each. Balayan was shot dead outside a gym in Shamli after assailants fired eighteen rounds at him on August 25, 2026. Investigators are examining whether Balayan's popular courtroom-themed song, released in February 2023, linked him to the ongoing gang war between the Jitendra Gogi and Tillu Tajpuria gangs. The feud, which originated during the 2010 Delhi University Students' Union elections, has resulted in over fifty deaths, including the killings of Gogi inside Delhi's Rohini Court in 2021 and Tajpuria inside Tihar Jail in 2023. Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack and the remaining suspects involved.

The latest episode of the monthly radio address highlights innovative public initiatives and social causes across the nation. A digital history platform designed to make Indian historical empires accessible through technology is showcased, emphasizing lesser-known dynasties alongside historical figures. The address calls for a national campaign against drug addiction, encouraging youth, content creators, and student groups to actively spread awareness through slogans, music, and short plays. Reflections on national celebrations include wide participation in handloom initiatives, space achievements, and patriotic observances. The role of the central street vendor scheme in empowering women entrepreneurs is outlined, featuring examples of small vendors expanding their businesses and improving family livelihoods. Sanitation initiatives in pilgrimage routes and local villages demonstrate community engagement in waste management and renewable energy generation. Agricultural diversification is discussed through successful flower cultivation, eco-tourism projects, and avocado farming practices that boost rural incomes. The address concludes with a tribute to legendary cinema personalities and a call to support local products.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's fourth visit to Uzbekistan highlights the deepening civilisational, cultural, and strategic ties between India and Central Asia. Beyond growing yoga diplomacy and popular Bollywood music, the bilateral relationship spans historical connections, educational exchanges, trade in pharmaceuticals, IT, and agriculture. Defense cooperation remains a key pillar, exemplified by the annual joint military exercise DUSTLIK and training for Uzbek military personnel in Indian institutes. During the visit, the Indian diaspora and local artists extended a warm welcome to PM Modi, demonstrating the strong people-to-people connections between both nations.

An RSS event is underway at the Madison Square Garden arena in New York, where RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat is set to address the gathering. The event features cultural displays from India, including music and dance performances, with around 5,000 attendees present in traditional Indian attire. Live reporting from outside the venue indicates a split reaction to the gathering. While supporters from across the country have gathered to attend the event, protesters, including separatists and pro-Palestine members, have assembled outside the arena to oppose the RSS and criticize the event.

Popular Haryanvi singer and YouTuber Ankit Balan was shot dead by four assailants outside a gym in Shamli, Uttar Pradesh. The attackers arrived on two motorcycles and fired between 12 to 18 rounds at Balan as he was heading towards his car. He sustained multiple bullet injuries, including a gunshot wound to the head, and died on the spot. CCTV footage captured the crime sequence and the attackers fleeing the scene. Police officers recovered around 18 empty shell casings from the spot, indicating the use of sophisticated weapons. A manhunt has been launched by police with multiple teams investigating potential angles, including old rivalry and connections to upcoming Panchayat elections. Social media claims attributed responsibility to Bholu Shahpuria, who identified himself as a member of the Gogi gang. Police continue probing the motive while tracing the suspects' escape route.

A Haryanvi singer was killed in broad daylight outside a gym in the Aryapuri-Nalpatri area of Shamli district, Uttar Pradesh. Four assailants arriving on motorcycles fired over 18 rounds at the victim while he was inside his vehicle, before fleeing the scene. Newly emerged CCTV footage has captured the sequence of events, showing the assailants firing a barrage of bullets and running away from the spot, providing key evidence to help track down the accused. Uttar Pradesh Police have launched a massive search operation across multiple departments to apprehend the identified suspects. Responsible parties in Sonipat have claimed the attack stemmed from personal rivalry. Authorities are also investigating potential links to gang rivalry and entertainment industry connections, as source reports indicate police are close to capturing the suspects involved in the incident.

In an interview, playback singer and composer Madhubanti Bagchi discussed her career journey, musical versatility, and initial hesitation regarding song remakes. She shared her reservations about recreating Usha Uthup’s song 'Ramba Ho' for the film soundtrack of 'Dhurandhar'. Reflecting on her professional challenges, Bagchi noted the uncertainties of pursuing a career in the arts, stating, "It's not for the faint-hearted. You can do everything right and still not make it." She recounted a crucial turning point in 2017 when she considered quitting music to pursue a regular job after completing her M.Tech degree. An unexpected recording call from Oscar-winning composer M.M. Keeravani prompted her to relocate from Kolkata and continue her musical career. Bagchi also explained how classical Hindustani vocal training underpins her ability to sing diverse genres ranging from semi-classical thumris like 'Nazarya Ki Maari' in 'Heeramandi' to upbeat dance tracks.

In this episode of Health360, the report examines the rising crackdown on surrogate advertising by tobacco and alcohol brands exploiting legal loopholes through proxy products like cardamom, soda, and music CDs. The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration issued warnings to actors Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn, and Tiger Shroff over endorsement deals promoting Vimal Elaichi, which links back to pan masala. The report highlights the health risks associated with restaurant food, including high sodium levels, hidden sugars, unhygienic kitchens, and reused cooking oil that undergoes dangerous chemical changes upon repeated heating. Additionally, experts address the monsoon health season, focusing on a six-fold rise in H1N1 seasonal influenza cases in Delhi and flu-like symptoms among students in Bengaluru. Medical specialists discuss distinguishing H1N1 from regular viral fevers, the importance of flu vaccination, and precautions against contagious eye flu or conjunctivitis. Gut health experts further recommend consuming freshly cooked food, probiotics, and citrus fruits to boost immunity during the rainy season.

A bank employee in Lucknow killed his estranged wife outside an ICICI Bank branch in Gomti Nagar during ongoing divorce proceedings. CCTV footage captured the assault and shooting outside the bank premises. Following the incident, the accused posted a WhatsApp status confessing to the crime and alleging infidelity. He subsequently returned to his residence, killed his sister, and died by suicide. Police recovered the bodies from the house, where music was found playing in the background. Authorities have launched an investigation into the sequence of events and all potential motives behind the double murder and suicide.

The Banjaare brothers went from learning music on YouTube and making songs during COVID to having their Haryanvi track featured in a Spider-Man campaign.

Actor Matt Damon expressed his appreciation for music and dance in Indian cinema. In an exclusive interview with Indian Today, Matt also opened up on why he thinks actor Tom Holland is the perfect fit for Bollywood.