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Veteran actor Asrani passes away after prolonged illness at 84

Senior and versatile Hindi film actor Govardhan Asrani, popularly known as Asrani, passed away this evening at around 4 PM after battling a prolonged illness at Arogya Nidhi Hospital, Juhu, Mumbai. He was 84. He was cremated at Shastri Nagar, Santacruz, in the presence of his close friends and family, informed his manager Babubhai Thiba. Originally hailing from Jaipur, Rajasthan, Asrani’s demise marks the end of an era in Indian cinema, especially in the realm of comic acting. Asrani, widely celebrated for his impeccable timing and memorable expressions, was a household name across generations. Over several decades, he carved a niche for himself in Bollywood with performances that effortlessly blended humour with relatability. His ability to bring laughter to audiences made him one of the most cherished comic actors in the industry. Born in Jaipur, Asrani ventured into Hindi cinema at a time when comic actors were often confined to stereotypical roles. However, he broke these conventions with his versatility, delivering performances that ranged from subtle wit to over-the-top hilarity. Many of his roles, particularly in films from the 1970s and 1980s, continue to be celebrated by cinephiles and casual viewers alike. Beyond his comic genius, Asrani’s dedication to his craft and humble persona off-screen earned him the respect of peers and co-stars. Over the years, he collaborated with some of the biggest names in Hindi cinema, leaving an indelible mark in both lead and supporting roles. His performances were not just about laughter; they often carried an underlying humanity that resonated deeply with audiences. The film fraternity and fans across India are mourning the loss of this iconic actor. Tributes are pouring in from fellow actors, directors, and admirers who remember Asrani not just for his comic brilliance but also for his contribution to the evolution of Hindi cinema. His legacy as a master of comic timing and memorable performances will continue to entertain and inspire generations to come. Asrani was last seen in Kajol starrer show The Trial Season 2, where he played the role of an advocate, once again proving his versatility and commitment to bringing depth to every character he portrayed.

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Sonu Sood’s next as director and actor is an action film based in Bihar

Actor-filmmaker-activist Sonu Sood, who made a huge impact as a philanthropist during the COVID endemic, is ready to direct a new film, this time based on Bihar’s socio-political scenario.Speaking exclusively on this, Sonu Sood said, “I have just finished writing the film. Besides playing the lead, I will be directing the film also. So, it’s an action film. I will for sure announce it in a big way since Bihar is a state very close to my heart. I have grown up in Bihar and I have studied the state’s dynamics from close quarters.”But Sonu Sood is not keen to do documentary-like political drama. “I’ve chosen the world of Bihar this time for its dramatic potential, and it’s going to be definitely an action film. Something that we all will be proud of. We have been already working for past 7-8 months on the detailing of the film. Now, I will come up with a big announcement very very soon and obviously I am going to call you first.”Sonu’s last directorial was the gritty action film Fateh. He has his own take on a film’s viability and the audience. “Sir, I don’t look at cinema as only a money-making machine. Of course, I want my films to do well. Who doesn’t want success? But for me, the public is not just an audience for my film. They are my extended family. Bahot gehra rishta hai hamara unke saath. I don’t look at them as a profit making machine.”During the COVID pandemic, Sonu Sood helped thousands of people with transportation to their homes, medicines, oxygen emergency surgery, financial assistance, education etc.Also Read: Sonu Sood buys land worth Rs 1.05 crore in Panvel with son Eshaan: Report

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Tomonobu Itagaki, Creator of Dead or Alive and Ninja Gaiden Reboot, Has Died Aged 58

Tomonobu Itagaki, best known as the creator of the Dead or Alive series and the Ninja Gaiden reboot series, has died at the age of 58. Itagaki joined Tecmo in 1992 and would head Team Ninja. He was producer and director on the first four Dead or Alive games, the first two Ninja Gaiden reboot series that started in 2004, and more. He would leave Team Ninja in June 2008 and would form a new studio, Valhalla Game Studios, alongside several other Team Ninja employees. The developer would release Devil’s Third for the Wii U in 2015. It would eventually be dissolved in December 2021. However, Itagaki Games would be formed shortly after. Read a message posted on Itagaki’s personal Facebook page (translated by Gematsu) below: My Last Words The light of my life is finally about to fade. The fact that this message has been posted means that the time has come at last. I am no longer in this world. (This final message was entrusted to someone dear to me.) My life was a series of battles. I kept on winning. I also caused a lot of trouble. I take pride in having fought through to the end according to my own convictions. I have no regrets. However, I am filled with sorrow that I was unable to deliver a new work to my fans. I’m sorry. That’s how it is. So it goes. -Tomonobu Itagaki A life-long and avid gamer, William D’Angelo was first introduced to VGChartz in 2007. After years of supporting the site, he was brought on in 2010 as a junior analyst, working his way up to lead analyst in 2012 and taking over the hardware estimates in 2017. He has expanded his involvement in the gaming community by producing content on his own YouTube channel and Twitch channel. You can follow the author on Bluesky. Full Article.

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Take it from the legend: June Fajardo’s 9th MVP may not be his last

After June Mar Fajardo wrapped up a six-minute scrum with journalists, the 6-foot-10 San Miguel Beer center was approached by a familiar figure who played a key part in enriching the Beermen’s PBA history. The man was the legendary Ramon Fernandez, the multifaceted center whose deep bag of skills, hard-to-break statistical achievements and championships collected