International
Scorsese to receive BAFTA honour
MUMBAI: The British Academy of Film and Television Arts will decide filmmaker Martin Scorsese with the BAFTA Fellowship for his contribution to cinema.
Said British Academy of Film and Television Arts chairman Tim Corrie, “Martin Scorsese is a legend in his lifetime; a true inspiration to all young directors the world over.
We are delighted to honour his contribution to cinema history and look forward to paying tribute to him in London on February 12.”
The 69-year-old director, who last year released his first family film Hugo, will join the likes of Stanley Kubrick, Steven Spielberg and Judi Dench next month by receiving the accolade given to those who provide an exceptional contribution to film, it is understood.
“It is a great honour to be recognized by the British Academy and to join the ranks of such an esteemed group of industry colleagues and friends,” commented Scorsese after hearing the news of the BAFTA honour.
The BAFTA Awards ceremony will be held on February 12.
International
Russia-India cinematic spectacle Persimmon of My Love set for grand Moscow debut
Hindi cinema style musical revives Indo-Soviet cinema ties for today
MUMBAI: A new chapter in cross-border storytelling is set to unfold as Persimmon of My Love gears up for its premiere in Moscow on 1 April 2026, marking the first large-scale cinematic collaboration between Russia and India in decades.
Positioned as a modern nod to the cultural exchange that once brought Indian classics to Soviet audiences, the film blends Hindi cinema flair with Russian storytelling, aiming to rekindle a long-standing cinematic friendship.
Directed by Marius Weisberg, the musical comedy follows two brothers navigating a lively world of music, family and romance. The lead roles are played by Demis Karibidis and Mikhail Galustyan, with Karibidis also contributing as a screenwriter.
Shot entirely in India, the production leans heavily into Hindi cinema style spectacle. Filming took place across Mumbai studios and the cities of Udaipur and Jodhpur, whose architecture was used to create the fictional setting of Khurmada. A crew of over 350 worked on the project, with large-scale sequences featuring up to 1,000 extras.
The film also brings Indian creative talent into the mix. Dance sequences are choreographed by Jay Kumar, while music by Zurab Matua features songs in both Hindi and Russian, adding to its cross-cultural appeal.
Backed by TNT channel, MyWayStudio and the Russian Cinema Fund, the project reflects a broader push to strengthen cultural ties between the two countries.
With its mix of colour, comedy and cross-border collaboration, Persimmon of My Love is not just a film release but a reminder that cinema, much like music, travels well across borders.
