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News18 India hosts star cast of ‘Vaccine War’
Mumbai: News18 India has aired an exclusive interview with the star cast of the highly anticipated movie ‘Vaccine War’. The panel hosted by the one of channel’s top anchors Amish Devgan included the film’s director Vivek Agnihotri, producer and actress Pallavi Joshi, and actor Nana Patekar, and was featured on Aar Paar, one of News18 India’s most popular shows.
In a discussion about his films, Vivek Agnihotri underscored the significance of Indian cinema as a medium to convey India’s stories to its people. He stressed that movies like ‘Kashmir Files and ‘Vaccine War’ play a pivotal role in building the Indian narrative. Agnihotri acknowledged the challenging times faced by India’s healthcare system during the COVID-19 pandemic but praised the steadfast dedication of Indian doctors and scientists who, through relentless hard work, developed vaccines, ensuring the safety of the nation.
He delved into the concept of ‘Sanatan’, emphasizing India’s uniqueness as a democracy where anyone can rise to top leadership positions, a phenomenon rarely seen elsewhere. Agnihotri also raised intriguing questions about whether a country like America would allow individuals with names like Hitler or Osama bin Laden to hold ministerial positions. He criticized Bollywood for sidelining common people in films, attributing the lack of success that some films face to this, and commended South Indian cinema for keeping the essence of the common man alive.
The legendary actor Nana Patekar expressed his willingness to explore various film genres but stressed that quality takes precedence over quantity, especially at the age of 73. He candidly admitted that he might not have the capacity to take on numerous projects anymore, which is why he is dedicated to projects like ‘Vaccine War’. Patekar warmly recalled his collaboration with Irrfan Khan during the filming of ‘Salaam Bombay’, praising his extraordinary talent and humanity. He humorously recounted an incident when Irrfan suggested to him that he plant a Night-Blooming Jasmine, a task he couldn’t fulfil at that time but now intends to accomplish. Patekar concluded by emphasizing that an artist transcends any caste or creed; an artist is simply an artist.
Pallavi Joshi, a seasoned actress, vehemently denied claims that her films are driven by a particular agenda. She emphasized that her films have no political agenda.
The interview on News18 India’s ‘Aar Paar’ provided an insightful platform for these eminent personalities to share their perspectives on the film industry and their experiences with ‘Vaccine War’. The film has already garnered substantial attention, making this interview highly relevant for the viewers.
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Kamlesh Singh receives Haldi Ghati Award from MMCF
India Today Group editor honoured for three decades of journalism at Udaipur ceremony.
MUMBAI- Kamlesh Singh just turned a lifetime of sharp words into a shiny shield because when journalism wakes up a society, even the Maharana of Mewar wants to pin a medal on it.
The Maharana of Mewar Charitable Foundation (MMCF) conferred its prestigious Haldi Ghati Award on Kamlesh Singh, a senior editor at the India Today Group, during a ceremony in Udaipur on 15 March 2026. The national award, instituted in 1981-82, recognises “work of permanent value that initiates an awakening in society through the medium of journalism.”
Singh, who leads several editorial initiatives including Aaj Tak Radio, the Teen Taal community and The Lallantop, was presented the honour by Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar, Managing Trustee of MMCF. The citation highlighted his three decades of contributions to Indian media, innovations in digital journalism, mentoring young reporters, and his popular podcast persona “Tau” on Teen Taal, which fosters thoughtful public discourse.
The Haldi Ghati Award, named after the historic Battle of Haldighati symbolising valour and resilience, is one of four national awards given annually by MMCF. Past recipients include Tavleen Singh, Piyush Pandey and Raj Chengappa.
Other honourees this year included Padma Vibhushan Pt Hari Prasad Chaurasia, Vedamurti Devvrat Rekhe, Treeman of India Marimuthu Yoganathan, Vir Chakra Capt Rizwan Malik, and US-based researcher Molly Emma Aitken, who received the Colonel James Tod Award for contributions to understanding Mewar’s spirit and values.
In an era where headlines often shout louder than substance, the MMCF quietly reminded everyone that real journalism isn’t about noise, it’s about the quiet, persistent work that stirs society awake, one thoughtful story at a time.
