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NIKITA ROY is a lacklustre investigative thriller. It will go unnoticed Movie Review: NIKITA ROY is a lacklustre investigative thriller

Star Cast: Sonakshi Sinha, Paresh Rawal

Director: Kussh S Sinha

Nikita Roy Movie Review Synopsis:
NIKITA ROY is the story of a girl fighting blind faith. Nikita (Sonakshi Sinha) is an author and a part of the International Rationalist Community (IRC), London. Her brother Sanal Roy (Arjun Rampal) is also a part of IRC and a staunch rationalist. He is also her mentor and he dotes on her. One day, Nikita’s life comes crashing down when she is informed that Sanal has passed away. As per the cops, he died by suicide. But Nikita is confident that it’s a murder. She finds out that Sanal was working on the case of Godman Amar Dev (Paresh Rawal) of Tru Faith Foundation. IRC members are reluctant to help Nikita as Amar is very powerful and also dangerous. Hence, she decides to fight Amar alone. Help comes from her ex-boyfriend, Jolly (Suhail Nayyar). What happens next forms the rest of the film.

Nikita Roy Movie Story Review:
Pavan Kirpalani’s original story and Kussh S Sinha’s adapted story hold a lot of promise. Pavan Kirpalani’s screenplay (additional screenplay by Neel Mohanty, Kussh S Sinha, Ankur Vijay Takrani) is lacklustre. Belal Khalique’s dialogues are just okay.

Kussh S Sinha’s direction is not up to the mark. He is equipped with a great story about godmen. On top of it, there’s also bit of a supernatural element. Hence, if dealt well, this film could have made for a thrilling watch. Moreover, it starts on a chilling note. The first half is engaging and one expects fireworks in the second half.

Sadly, the post-interval portions are boring. The entire investigate bit falls flat. Nikita presents herself as someone who will expose Amar Dev but in reality, she doesn’t have any plan. She shoots arrows in the dark. Hence, one doesn’t see her in awe. Moreover, a few questions remain unanswered till the very end. The finale raises interest but at the same time, it is convenient and predictable.

Nikita Roy – Official Trailer | Sonakshi Sinha, Paresh Rawal

Nikita Roy Movie Review Performances:
Sonakshi Sinha yet again proves that she’s a fine performer and can nicely shoulder a film if given a chance. Paresh Rawal is top-notch as the villain. Suhail Nayyar gives a wonderful performance and has a great screen presence. Arjun Rampal is lovely in a cameo. Kallirroi Tziafeta (Freya) leaves a huge mark. Supreet Bedi (Tina), Kumall Grewal (Krishnan), Paul Coster (Inspector Brian), Beau Baptist (Inspector James), Adi Chugh (Sameer; IRC member), Calin Bleau (Luca; Amar Dev’s assistant) and Zara Zaidi (Rosemary; Amar Dev’s assistant) are fair.

Nikita Roy movie music and other technical aspects:
Abhinav Shekhar’s music is forgettable. ‘Kaali Raatein’ works due to the placement and graphics. Amar Mohile’s background score adds to the eeriness.

Anshul Chobey’s cinematography is normal. Ian Van Temperley’s action is cinematic. Sunil Nigvekar’s production design is convincing while Ankit Patel and Nuri Chimnani’s costumes are straight out of life. Ritesh Soni’s editing could have been better.

Nikita Roy Movie Review Conclusion:
On the whole, NIKITA ROY is a lacklustre investigative thriller. At the box office, it has released with negligible buzz and will go unnoticed.

SAIYAARA strikes a perfect chord between emotion and spectacle, ensuring a captivating cinematic experience Movie Review: SAIYAARA is a captivating cinematic experience.

Star Cast: Ahaan Panday, Aneet Padda

Director: Mohit Suri

Saiyaara Movie Review Synopsis:
SAIYAARA is the story of two lovers. Vaani Batra (Aneet Padda) is a closet poet and is all set to get married. After her partner doesn’t arrive for court marriage and dumps her at the last minute, Vaani is devastated. She stops writing poems. Six months later, she gets a job as a journalist. This is when she bumps into Krish Kapoor (Ahaan Panday). He’s an aspiring singer but has lot of aggression in him. Krish reads Vaani’s poem and gets enchanted by it. He asks her to join him to write lyrics for his songs. Both come closer while working and fall for each other. Sadly, their love story has several obstacles. What happens next forms the rest of the film.

Saiyaara Movie Story Review:
Sankalp Sadanah’s story is excellent. Sankalp Sadanah screenplay is dramatic and gripping. But it also gives a dejavu of some past films of Mohit Suri. Rohan Shankar’s dialogues are touching and contribute beautifully to the film.

Mohit Suri’s direction is splendid. He has always been a fine storyteller but watch out for him here as he has evolved and how! His films usually deal with loneliness, alcoholism and a lot more and all these aspects are there. But at the same time, there’s a lot more to the story. Thankfully, the makers didn’t give out the plot in the trailer. Viewers will be astonished with the interval block and kudos to the makers for keeping it hidden. Some scenes that stand out are Krish’s dramatic entry, Vaani admonishing Krish for not being able to pen the lyrics, Vaani confessing about her past while Krish plays cricket. Post-interval, the madness that occurs backstage is very dramatic. The pre climax is gripping while the finale is moving.

On the flipside, though Mohit Suri tries his best to ensure SAIYAARA stands out, one can’t help but remember AASHIQUI 2 and his other films as a few plot points are similar. Some scenes come out as a bit silly and might lead to unintentional laughter in cinemas.

Saiyaara | Official Trailer | Ahaan Panday | Aneet Padda | Mohit Suri | Releasing 18 July 2025

Saiyaara Movie Review Performances:
Ahaan Panday makes a terrific debut. His screen presence is electrifying and he shines the most in emotional scenes. Aneet Padda will surprise as her character is very challenging and she pulls it off like a pro. The chemistry of both is very enticing as well. Alam Khan (KV) leaves a huge mark. Geeta Agarwal (Vaani’s mother), Rajesh Kumar (Vaani’s father), Varun Badola (Krish’s father), Shaad Randhawa (Prince), Sid Makkar (Vinit Rawal; manager), Shaan R Grover (Mahesh Iyer) and Neil Dutta (Cleo) lend able support.

Saiyaara movie music and other technical aspects:
The songs are a USP. The title track is the best track of the lot and is very well shot. The same goes for ‘Dhun’. ‘Barbaad’, ‘Tum Ho Toh’ and ‘Humsafar’ are very soulful. John Stewart Eduri’s background score is in sync with the film’s mood.

Vikas Sivaraman’s cinematography gives the film rich, vibrant look. Laxmi Keluskar, Rajat Poddar’s production design is rich. Sheetal Sharma’s costumes are glamorous. Aejaz Gulab’s action is minimal but entertaining. yFX’s VFX is classy. Devendra Murdeshwar, Rohit Makwana’s editing is satisfactory.

Saiyaara Movie Review Conclusion:
On the whole, SAIYAARA is a stirring musical saga elevated by Mohit Suri’s deft direction, heartfelt romance, chart-topping music, and stellar lead performances. It strikes a perfect chord between emotion and spectacle, ensuring a captivating cinematic experience.  At the box office, it’s poised for an unexpectedly massive opening, with every chance to rank among the year’s biggest blockbusters.

TANVI THE GREAT suffers due to the writing and a weak second half Movie Review: TANVI THE GREAT is a heartfelt and well-intentioned film

Star Cast: Shubhangi Dutt, Anupam Kher, Pallavi Joshi

Director: Anupam Kher

Tanvi The Great Movie Review Synopsis:
TANVI THE GREAT is the story of an extraordinary person. Tanvi Raina (Shubhangi Dutt) is a 21-year-old autistic girl who lives in Delhi with her mother, Vidya Raina (Pallavi Joshi), a globally renowned autism expert. Tanvi’s father, Captain Samar Raina (Karan Tacker), was a soldier who died 14 years ago while he was on his way to Siachen. Vidya has to go to New York, USA, for 9 months for a special project related to her field. She asks her father-in-law, Retd Colonel Pratap Raina (Anupam Kher), to take care of Tanvi in his absence. Pratap agrees. Tanvi is dropped off at his residence in Lansdowne, Uttarakhand. Pratap is used to staying alone and hence, his peace is shattered by Tanvi’s presence. He also struggles to handle her behaviour. Tanvi is happy to be in Lansdowne and enjoys learning music under the guidance of Raza Saab (Boman Irani). At Pratap’s house, she learns more about her father and how it was his dream to salute the Indian flag at Siachen. This motivates Tanvi to fulfill her father’s dream. She decides to join the army. Pratap stops her from doing so, knowing fully that the army doesn’t employ autistic people. What happens next forms the rest of the film.

Tanvi The Great Movie Story Review:
Anupam Kher and Abhishek Dixit’s story is novel. Anupam Kher, Ankur Suman and Abhishek Dixit’s screenplay doesn’t leave the desired impact as it’s impractical and difficult to digest. Anupam Kher, Ankur Suman and Abhishek Dixit’s dialogues are fine but a few one-liners are tacky.

Anupam Kher’s direction is okay. He has mounted the film very well and also makes an important comment about autistic people. The intention is pure and it shows. It is also clear that a lot of research has gone into writing the film. Some scenes are lovely, like Samar’s accident sequence, Tanvi meeting Pratap for the first time, Tanvi’s meeting with Major Srinivas (Arvind Swami), etc.

On the flipside, the direction leaves a lot to be desired. The cinematic liberties go to another level once Tanvi joins the army training. The songs add to the length needlessly and a few characters, played by prominent actors, don’t get the desired due. The climax was supposed to induce goosebumps, but that doesn’t happen as it’s far-fetched. The tacky VFX further ruins the experience. Tanvi’s intention to join the army might also not be accepted by the viewers. In fact, the SSB selection scene and Siachen sequence give a feeling of MY NAME IS KHAN meeting 12TH FAIL.

Tanvi The Great | Official Trailer | Anupam Kher | Shubhangi | MM Keeravaani

Tanvi The Great Movie Review Performances:
Shubhangi Dutt gives a wonderful performance and shows a lot of promise. However, the condition of Tanvi is inconsistent. In some scenes, she appears normal. But it’s the fault of the makers here, as she has delivered according to what was instructed to her. Anupam Kher the actor shines as always. Pallavi Joshi is lovely and deserves to be seen more. Karan Tacker is adorable in a cameo. Boman Irani is let down by the writing. Jackie Shroff (Brigadier Joshi), Arvind Swami (Major Srinivas), Nasser (Brigadier K N Rao) and Ashish Kaushik (Dogra; Srinivas’s associate) leave a mark. Iain Glen (Michael Simmons) is just okay. Gautam Ahuja (Mukund) hams.

Tanvi The Great movie music and other technical aspects:
M M Keeravani’s music doesn’t follow the present-day trend and that way, it stands out. But the songs won’t have a long shelf life. The theme music is soothing. ‘Mann Chala Manwa’ is soulful. ‘Oh Mere Mann Mohana’ is a fine song but it is forced. Same goes for ‘Sena Ki Jai’. M M Keeravani’s background score is exhilarating.

Keiko Nakahara’s cinematography is superior. Urvi Ashar Kakkar’s production design is classy. Rohit Chaturvedi’s costumes are realistic. VFX is poor. Tushar Parekh’s editing could have been crisper.

Tanvi The Great Movie Review Conclusion:
On the whole, TANVI THE GREAT is a heartfelt and well-intentioned film with moments that shine. While the writing and length pose challenges, and the second half loses some momentum, its sincerity is evident. At the box office, it enters a competitive space, but with the right word of mouth, it still has the potential to find its own audience.

I KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST SUMMER fails to impress due to a weak script and climax Movie Review: I KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST SUMMER fails to impress

Star Cast: Madelyn Cline, Chase Sui Wonders, Tyriq Withers, Jonah Hauer-King, Sarah Pidgeon, Billy Campbell, Joshua Orpin

Director: Jennifer Kaytin Robinson

I Know What You Did Last Summer Movie Review Synopsis:
I KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST SUMMER is the story of a group of friends and a murder. On the 4th of July, Danica Richards (Madelyn Cline) gets engaged to Teddy Spencer (Tyriq Withers). Their old friends, Ava (Chase Sui Wonders) and Milo (Jonah Hauer-King) arrive in their hometown, Southport, on this happy occasion. They decide to go to a secluded beach to watch the fireworks. They bump into another old friend, Stevie (Sarah Pidgeon), and she also joins them. On the way, they unintentionally cause an accident, leading to the death of a car driver. The friends are divided over the next course of action. Ava and Stevie want to call the cops, but the rest of them realize that if they do so, they can get arrested, affecting their careers. Teddy’s father Giant Spencer (Billy Campbell) is a big shot in Southport and he ensures the case is dismissed as that of a road accident. One year has passed. Ava and Milo return to Southport for Danica’s wedding to Wyatt (Joshua Orpin) after she breaks up with Teddy. During the wedding celebrations, Danica gets a letter simply stating ‘I Know What You Did Last Summer’. It scares her, Ava, Milo and Teddy. Soon, dead bodies start piling up and moreover, they also learn that a similar spate of killings took place in the town before. What happens next forms the rest of the film.

I Know What You Did Last Summer Movie Story Review:
Leah McKendrick and Jennifer Kaytin Robinson’s story is intended to take the franchise forward with a dash of nostalgia. Sam Lansky and Jennifer Kaytin Robinson’s screenplay is weak and full of loose ends. The dialogues are okay.

Jennifer Kaytin Robinson’s direction is not good. To give credit where it’s due, the way Southport is depicted is impressive. A lot of changes have occurred here after the town suffered negativity due to the 1997 killings. This bit is intriguing and also realistic. Some jump scares are also frightening while the suspense is unexpected.

On the flipside, the terror level this time is very low, compared to the first two films. The character of Danica is shown to be dumb and instead of amusing viewers, it’ll irritate them. The goings-on are not convincing at all. Agreed that Grant downplays the deaths since he doesn’t want the town to get a bad reputation. But at the same time, his son’s life is also in danger. Yet, he doesn’t take precautions. The 1997 version was believable as CCTV cameras were barely present on the streets. Now, the situation has changed and it shouldn’t have been difficult for cops to track the killer. Also, it is laughable that Julie James (Jennifer Love Hewitt) had CCTV cameras and even motion sensor detectors around her house. But no such security systems were present in Teddy’s palatial residence. The climax is another downer. Ideally, the film should have ended with the boat scene. The extended finale spoils not just the film but also the series.

I Know What You Did Last Summer Movie Review Performances:
Madelyn Cline is quite over the top. Chase Sui Wonders has the maximum screen time and she performs ably. Tyriq Withers and Jonah Hauer-King deliver fine performances. Sarah Pidgeon leaves a mark. Billy Campbell and Joshua Orpin are okay. Jennifer Love Hewitt is superb while Freddie Prinze Jr (Ray) is decent but is let down by the writing.

I Know What You Did Last Summer movie music and other technical aspects:
Chanda Dancy’s music is in sync with the feel of the film. Elisha Christian’s cinematography is neat. Action is gory. Courtney Andujar and Hillary Andujar’s production design is authentic. Mari-An Ceo’s costumes are glamorous. Saira Haider’s editing is passable.

I Know What You Did Last Summer Movie Review Conclusion:
On the whole, I KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST SUMMER fails to impress due to a weak script and disappointing climax. At the box office, it will prove to be a damp squib, despite the popularity of the series.

SMURFS is a poorly made animated film. It has limited appeal in India Movie Review: SMURFS is a poorly made animated film

Star Cast: Rihanna, J P Karliak, Natasha Lyonne, Nick Offerman, James Corden

Director: Chris Miller 

Smurfs Movie Review Synopsis:
SMURFS is the story of a group of mysterious creatures on a mission. Everyone is happy in the Smurf Village and making merry, except No Name Smurf (James Corden). Everyone has been named according to their skills and profession. But No Name doesn’t have either of the two and has been left without a name. This distresses him. One day, he discovers magical powers. He announces it to the villagers, who are delighted with the development. Suddenly, Papa Smurf (John Goodman) is kidnapped by the evil Razamel (J P Karliak). Razamel is looking for a magical book and he’s sure that Papa Smurf has it or knows its whereabouts. Papa, however, refuses to disclose the information. Meanwhile, No Name along with Smurfette (Rihanna) and other Smurfs, travel to the real world. They reach Paris, where they meet Papa’s brother Ken (Nick Offerman). He also joins them to find Papa. The Smurfs don’t just get help from Ken but also valuable information about their lineage and the magic book. What happens next forms the rest of the film. 

Smurfs Movie Story Review:
Pam Brady’s story is promising. Pam Brady’s screenplay falters after a point. The dialogues try to add to the humour.

Chris Miller’s direction is okay. On the positive side, the film starts on an entertaining note. The intro of the characters, especially the quirky ones, raise laughs. The conflict is also intriguing and the madness continues once the Smurfs reach Paris.

In the second half, the film drops. The Disney-style songs seem forced. The character arc of No Name should have been exhilarating but the desired impact is just not made. In fact, the humour also gets limited after a point. There have been many films in this space and have been far better; this aspect will also affect the response of the public. 

Smurfs Movie Review Performances:
Speaking of the voiceovers, Rihanna is the biggest draw of the film and she does an impressive job. J P Karliak comes next and he’s praiseworthy since he has voiced not just Razamel but also Gargamel. Natasha Lyonne (Mama Poot) gets the quirk right. Nick Offerman and James Corden come next, followed by Dan Levy (Joel; Razamel’s henchmen) and Sandra Oh (Moxie Smurf). 

Smurfs movie music and other technical aspects:
Henry Jackman’s music is enticing. ‘Everything Goes With Blue’ is foot-tapping. It appears at the very start and enhances interest. ‘Desi Trill’ has Punjabi lyrics and will surprise moviegoers. This song ideally should have been promoted big time. The background score is just okay.

The cinematography is appropriate. The animation is not the usual Disney/Pixar type. It is vibrant in some scenes, but it is also not as enticing. Max Boas’s production design is fine. Matt Landon’s editing is pacy but stagnates in the middle of the second half. 

Smurfs Movie Review Conclusion:
On the whole, SMURFS is a poorly made animated film. It has limited appeal in India, and hence, its box office prospects look bleak.

TANVI THE GREAT suffers due to the writing and a weak second half Movie Review: TANVI THE GREAT suffers due to the writing

Star Cast: Shubhangi Dutt, Anupam Kher, Pallavi Joshi

Director: Anupam Kher

Tanvi The Great Movie Review Synopsis:
TANVI THE GREAT is the story of an extraordinary person. Tanvi Raina (Shubhangi Dutt) is a 21-year-old autistic girl who lives in Delhi with her mother, Vidya Raina (Pallavi Joshi), a globally renowned autism expert. Tanvi’s father, Captain Samar Raina (Karan Tacker), was a soldier who died 14 years ago while he was on his way to Siachen. Vidya has to go to New York, USA, for 9 months for a special project related to her field. She asks her father-in-law, Retd Colonel Pratap Raina (Anupam Kher), to take care of Tanvi in his absence. Pratap agrees. Tanvi is dropped off at his residence in Lansdowne, Uttarakhand. Pratap is used to staying alone and hence, his peace is shattered by Tanvi’s presence. He also struggles to handle her behaviour. Tanvi is happy to be in Lansdowne and enjoys learning music under the guidance of Raza Saab (Boman Irani). At Pratap’s house, she learns more about her father and how it was his dream to salute the Indian flag at Siachen. This motivates Tanvi to fulfill her father’s dream. She decides to join the army. Pratap stops her from doing so, knowing fully that the army doesn’t employ autistic people. What happens next forms the rest of the film.

Tanvi The Great Movie Story Review:
Anupam Kher and Abhishek Dixit’s story is novel. Anupam Kher, Ankur Suman and Abhishek Dixit’s screenplay doesn’t leave the desired impact as it’s impractical and difficult to digest. Anupam Kher, Ankur Suman and Abhishek Dixit’s dialogues are fine but a few one-liners are tacky.

Anupam Kher’s direction is okay. He has mounted the film very well and also makes an important comment about autistic people. The intention is pure and it shows. It is also clear that a lot of research has gone into writing the film. Some scenes are lovely, like Samar’s accident sequence, Tanvi meeting Pratap for the first time, Tanvi’s meeting with Major Srinivas (Arvind Swami), etc.

On the flipside, the direction leaves a lot to be desired. The cinematic liberties go to another level once Tanvi joins the army training. The songs add to the length needlessly and a few characters, played by prominent actors, don’t get the desired due. The climax was supposed to induce goosebumps, but that doesn’t happen as it’s far-fetched. The tacky VFX further ruins the experience. Tanvi’s intention to join the army might also not be accepted by the viewers. In fact, the SSB selection scene and Siachen sequence give a feeling of MY NAME IS KHAN meeting 12TH FAIL.

Tanvi The Great | Official Trailer | Anupam Kher | Shubhangi | MM Keeravaani

Tanvi The Great Movie Review Performances:
Shubhangi Dutt gives a wonderful performance and shows a lot of promise. However, the condition of Tanvi is inconsistent. In some scenes, she appears normal. But it’s the fault of the makers here, as she has delivered according to what was instructed to her. Anupam Kher the actor shines as always. Pallavi Joshi is lovely and deserves to be seen more. Karan Tacker is adorable in a cameo. Boman Irani is let down by the writing. Jackie Shroff (Brigadier Joshi), Arvind Swami (Major Srinivas), Nasser (Brigadier K N Rao) and Ashish Kaushik (Dogra; Srinivas’s associate) leave a mark. Iain Glen (Michael Simmons) is just okay. Gautam Ahuja (Mukund) hams.

Tanvi The Great movie music and other technical aspects:
M M Keeravani’s music doesn’t follow the present-day trend and that way, it stands out. But the songs won’t have a long shelf life. The theme music is soothing. ‘Mann Chala Manwa’ is soulful. ‘Oh Mere Mann Mohana’ is a fine song but it is forced. Same goes for ‘Sena Ki Jai’. M M Keeravani’s background score is exhilarating.

Keiko Nakahara’s cinematography is superior. Urvi Ashar Kakkar’s production design is classy. Rohit Chaturvedi’s costumes are realistic. VFX is poor. Tushar Parekh’s editing could have been crisper.

Tanvi The Great Movie Review Conclusion:
On the whole, TANVI THE GREAT is a well-intentioned flick but suffers due to writing, a weak second half and excessive length. At the box office, it will face tough competition and hence will largely go unnoticed.

07/18-07/27 – Celebrate 20 Years of KC India Mart

https://kcindiamart.com/weekly-ad

KC India Mart, a proud KCdesi Prime Partner, is celebrating its 20th Anniversary with a special sale from July 18th to 27th, 2025!

Enjoy great discounts on groceries including rice, atta, dal, tea, ghee, snacks, and more.

https://kcindiamart.com/weekly-ad

First 20 customers each day receive 2 lbs of Toor Dal FREE with a minimum $25 purchase (T&C apply).

Don’t miss this chance to save big and celebrate 20 years of trusted service in Overland Park!

https://kcindiamart.com/weekly-ad

Desi Bites – Khate Jao…

This fast-casual Indian restaurant, located inside the new KC India Mart complex in Overland Park, offers a vibrant and flavorful dining experience with a focus on freshness and authenticity. From Indo-Chinese favorites and rich curries to dosas, bhel, chaats, and a wide range of vegetarian dishes, Desi Bites brings together the best of Indian street food and homestyle cooking.

KC India Mart

For the past two decades, this beloved community staple has specialized in providing an exceptional range of over 6,000 authentic Indian products—ranging from fresh produce, rice, flours, and lentils to a wide variety of gourmet snacks, sweets, pooja essentials, and frozen convenience foods. Known for their weekly ad specials and friendly in-store atmosphere, KC India Mart also features a cozy café serving popular Indian dishes like Chicken Tikka Masala, samosas, and chaat-style snacks. With a recent expansion into a larger space near 135th and Hemlock, the store continues to grow while maintaining its commitment to quality, tradition, and customer satisfaction.

Welcoming KC India Mart and DesiBites to KCdesi

Welcoming KC India Mart – Greater KC’s Premier Indian Grocery Destination
We are honored to welcome KC India Mart, conveniently located in Overland Park, as a proud KCdesi Prime Partner! For the past two decades, this beloved community staple has specialized in providing an exceptional range of over 6,000 authentic Indian products—ranging from fresh produce, rice, flours, and lentils to a wide variety of gourmet snacks, sweets, pooja essentials, and frozen convenience foods. Known for their weekly ad specials and friendly in-store atmosphere, KC India Mart also features a cozy café serving popular Indian dishes like Chicken Tikka Masala, samosas, and chaat-style snacks. With a recent expansion into a larger space near 135th and Hemlock, the store continues to grow while maintaining its commitment to quality, tradition, and customer satisfaction. We are proud to support and collaborate with a business that plays such a vital role in helping the Indian community stay connected to its cultural roots.


Introducing Desi Bites – Fresh, Flavorful Indian Fast-Casual Dining in KC
KCdesi is excited to welcome Desi Bites to our Prime Partner family! This fast-casual Indian restaurant, located inside the new KC India Mart complex in Overland Park, offers a vibrant and flavorful dining experience with a focus on freshness and authenticity. From Indo-Chinese favorites and rich curries to dosas, bhel, chaats, and a wide range of vegetarian dishes, Desi Bites brings together the best of Indian street food and homestyle cooking. Their menu is thoughtfully crafted to suit dine-in, takeout, and catering needs, making it a go-to spot for busy families and professionals alike. With a modern setup, easy online ordering, and quick service kiosks, Desi Bites has quickly become a favorite among food lovers in the KC area. We are delighted to partner with a business that shares our passion for community and cultural celebration through food.


08/23 – The Jamie Lever Show – A Double Dhamaka Night of Comedy in Kansas City!

The Jamie Lever Show – A Double Dhamaka Night of Comedy in Kansas City!

RK Entertainment Inc. is thrilled to bring you an evening of side-splitting comedy, energy, and entertainment with The Jamie Lever Show, happening live in Kansas City on Saturday, August 23rd, 2025. Known for her impeccable comic timing, stage presence, and versatility, Jamie Lever, one of India’s leading female comedians and performers, is set to captivate the audience with her one-of-a-kind humor and charm.

This much-anticipated show will be held at the Kansas City Scottish Rite Temple, located at 1330 Linwood Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64109. Doors open at 6:30 PM and the performance begins at 7:00 PM sharp, so be sure to arrive early to grab your seats and soak in the electric atmosphere.

Double Dhamaka Special – This is not just a show, it’s a full-fledged experience you won’t want to miss. Perfect for fans of comedy, Bollywood-style entertainment, and live performances that leave a lasting impression.

Ticket prices are affordable and tiered to fit every budget:

  • General Admission: $19, $29, $39

  • Premium Experience: $49

  • Exclusive VVIP Seating also available for those looking to enjoy the best view in the house.

Tickets are in high demand and selling fast, so act quickly to reserve yours and be part of a night filled with laughter and joy.

For ticket bookings or more details, contact Jigar Barot at (631) 507-1542.

Brought to you by RK Entertainment Inc., with support from Suvysoft and B-Live Events, this is Kansas City’s must-attend desi entertainment event of the summer.

Sandy Herrick Listing – 5301 Sycamore Dr, Roeland Park

🏡 Spotlight: 5301 Sycamore Dr, Roeland Park, KS 66205

Offered at $380,000 • 3 Beds • 2.5 Baths • 2,371 sq ft

Discover this charming Cape Cod–style home nestled on a corner lot in Roeland Park. Its character-rich interior features arched doorways, original hardwood floors, and dual fireplaces—one in the living room and another in the family room—offering a cozy ambiance throughout.

✨ Home Highlights:

  • Built in 1940, this home maintains its vintage charm while offering modern possibilities.

  • First-floor layout includes 2 bedrooms and 2 full baths; the upper level adds a spacious bedroom, bonus room, and a half bath .

  • Finished basement, single-car garage, and a large fenced backyard with a covered patio and a huge shed—perfect for hobbies and outdoor gatherings .

  • 1.5-acre lot with mature trees and a corner location enhances curb appeal and privacy .

  • Award-winning Shawnee Mission School District, with Roesland Elementary, Hocker Grove Middle, and SM North High nearby.

  • Excellent commute options, close to parks, coffee shops, restaurants, and interstates.

🤝 Meet Sandy Herrick — KCdesi Prime Partner & Trusted Realtor

This property is listed by Sandy Herrick, a respected agent with ReeceNichols – Overland Park, and a proud KCdesi Prime Partner. Sandy brings local expertise and deep community connections to every transaction:

  • 📞 Phone: (913) 205‑4333

  • Recognized for her professionalism and dedication in serving Kansas City area clients .

Why This Listing Matters to KCdesi Readers

5301 Sycamore Dr stands out as both a thoughtful renovation opportunity and a delightful family home. Its blend of classic charm, functional living space, and community advantages—including excellent schools and quick access to city amenities—make it an excellent match for KC’s dynamic Indian community.

Plus, with Sandy Herrick as your agent, you receive personalized attention from a trusted KCdesi partner deeply invested in supporting local Indian families through their home-buying journey.

👉 Explore more details and photos on the original listing here.

Ready to take the next step?

Connect with Sandy Herrick to schedule a showing, learn about financing, or explore how this home aligns with your family’s needs.

07/26 – Laughter For A Cause by Akshaya Patra KC

Akshaya Patra USA Kansas Chapter Presents

Laughter For A Cause Featuring Omi Vaidya

Saturday July 26th 2025 • 7:30 pm
Eagles Landing at Lake Olathe 475 S. Ward Cliff Dr. Olathe, KS 66061

Comedy night in Kansas featuring Omi Vaidya, American & bollywood Actor, American English Comedian and Entertainer. He is best known for his performance as Chatur Ramalingam or “Silencer” in the 2009 buddy-drama film, 3 Idiots. In addition, Vaidya has played roles on The Office and Arrested Development.

For assistance, please contact kansas@apusa.org.

OR

Shanthy Vinjmoor: (913)-402-4396

Deepali Mahabaleshwarkar: (913)-963-4302

Buy Tickets now!

https://give.apusa.org/event/akshaya-patra-kansas-laughter-for-a-cause/e694672

AAP JAISA KOI is a simple love story told stylishly. It also raises an important comment Movie Review: AAP JAISA KOI is a simple love story told stylishly

Star Cast: R Madhavan, Fatima Sana Shaikh

Director: Vivek Soni

Aap Jaisa Koi Movie Review Synopsis:
AAP JAISA KOI is the story of two opposite people in love. Shrirenu Tripathi (R Madhavan) is a 42-year-old Sanskrit teacher in Jamshedpur. He lives with his brother Bhanu Tripathi (Manish Chaudhari), sister-in-law Kusum (Ayesha Raza), sister Nisha (Shriyam Bhagnani), uncle Pramod (Sanjeev Wilson) and his wife Pramila (Ritu Chaudhry Seth). He is struggling to find a match for marriage. As luck would have it, a 32-year-old Kolkata-based girl, Madhu Bose (Fatima Sana Shaikh), expresses interest. Both meet and sparks fly. Shrirenu, at first, doesn’t believe his luck and soon comes to term that Madhu indeed accepts him wholeheartedly. All is going well until one day, all hell breaks loose. What happens next forms the rest of the film.

Aap Jaisa Koi Movie Story Review:
Radhika Anand’s story is progressive. Radhika Anand and Jehan Handa’s screenplay is imaginative and simple. Radhika Anand and Jehan Handa’s dialogues are one of the USPs of the film.

Vivek Soni’s direction is excellent. He tells a simple story but in a very stylish way. This is evident from the very first scene. He infuses humour in abundance to get the message across. On top of it, he gives a very dreamy look to the film. The manner in which Shrirenu is unable to believe that Madhu has shown interest in him is amusing as well as heartbreaking. Their courtship is cute while the midpoint of the film is dramatic. It’s the second half where the film gets serious and makes a hard-hitting impact. Also, many films of this genre tend to get dragging but this one moves at a fine pace with a crisp run time of just 115 minutes.

On the flipside, tracks of two characters culminate abruptly. The ‘mummy-daddy’ joke might have sounded funny on paper but doesn’t land properly. Lastly, the entire track Shrirenu asking a student to interview Madhu’s family is very difficult to digest. Wouldn’t have they told Madhu at some point about it? Moreover, no explanation is given who is Chaitali (Dipika Singh), who gives away crucial information about Madhu’s past.

Aap Jaisa Koi | Official Trailer | R Madhavan, Fatima Sana Shaikh | Netflix India

Aap Jaisa Koi Movie Review Performances:
R Madhavan slips into the part of a 42-year-old virgin effortlessly. His expressions and his awkward behaviour are just right for his character. Fatima Sana Shaikh’s look and also some of the aspects of the film might remind viewers of ROCKY AUR RANI KII PREM KAHAANI [2023] but soon, the comparisons are forgotten. Fatima brings her own touch to the character and is quite impressive. First METRO…IN DINO and now AAP JAISA KOI, the actress is on a roll. Namit Das (Deepak) is apt for the role of the sidekick. Manish Chaudhari delivers an authentic performance while Ayesha Raza makes her presence felt. Shriyam Bhagnani is memorable in the railway station scene. Sanjeev Wilson has limited screen time but leaves a mark. Shubhronil Chatterjee (Joy Mamaji) looks dashing and delivers a fine performance. Beena Banerjee (Didi Ma) is lovely. Ritu Chaudhry Seth, Anubha Fatehpuria (Anupama; Madhu’s mother), Kumar Kanchan Ghosh (Pritam Mausaji), Pubali Sanyal (Bidhisha Mausi), Ananya Chatterjee (Shona Masi) and Shashie Vermaa (Parikshit Mausaji) don’t get much scope. Karan Wahi (Namit Agarwal) is decent. Sachin Choudhary (Rakesh; student) plays an interesting character and does well.

Aap Jaisa Koi movie music and other technical aspects:
Music should pick up after the film’s release. ‘Jab Tu Sajan’ is visually stunning and kudos to the makers for thinking out of the box. ‘Mila Tujhe’ works as the theme song. ‘Dhuan Dhuan’ is okay while ‘Saare Jag Mein’ is catchy. ‘Jaadu Wali Chimki’ is also well picturized. Justin Prabhakaran’s background score is in sync with the mood of the film.

Debojeet Ray’s cinematography is lovely and the use of lights complements the visuals. Veera Kapur Ee’s costumes are simple in the case of R Madhavan and stunning in the case of Fatima Sana Shaikh. Aparna Sud’s production design has a fairy tale feel. Special mention should also go to Run Frenzy Films for the unique title design. Prashanth Ramachandran’s editing is slick.

Aap Jaisa Koi Movie Review Conclusion:
On the whole, AAP JAISA KOI is a simple love story told stylishly. At the same time, it also raises an important comment and hence, is bound to find takers.

MAALIK is a routine gangster drama that has stiff competition at the box office Movie Review: MAALIK is a routine gangster drama that treads familiar ground

Star Cast: Rajkummar Rao, Manushi Chhillar

Director: Pulkit

Maalik Movie Review Synopsis:
MAALIK is the story of a gangster. The year is 1988. Deepak aka Maalik (Rajkummar Rao) is a gangster based in Allahabad. He has the support of the local political leader Shankar Singh aka Dadda (Saurabh Shukla). Dadda also mentors MLA Balhar Singh (Swanand Kirkire) and he’s fed up with the rising power of Maalik. Things get heated when Maalik kills a cop for stopping his trucks at a checkpost. With no other option, MLA assigns Prabhu Das (Prosenjit Chatterjee) as the new SP of Allahabad. Prabhu has 98 encounters with his kitty and was suspended for his activities. As he commences his duty in Allahabad, he decides to eliminate Maalik once and for all, more so after the latter threatens his grandchild. What happens next forms the rest of the film.

Maalik Movie Story Review:
Jyotsana Nath and Pulkit’s story is clichéd. Jyotsana Nath and Pulkit’s screenplay is okay in some parts but overall, it offers very little novelty value. Jyotsana Nath and Pulkit’s dialogues are hard-hitting.

Pulkit’s direction is decent. He treats the film in a massy manner and has peppered the narrative with commercial and action-packed scenes. He has also fleshed out great performances from his lead actors. The intermission point is arresting. The track of Shalini (Manushi Chhillar) in the second half looks forced at first but is the best part of the film.

On the flipside, it tells a story that we have seen in many gangster films in the past from VAASTAV to the SHOOTOUT series. Even the web is full of such shows. In fact, Maalik gives a strong déjà vu of KHAKEE: THE BIHAR CHAPTER. While the first half is shorter, the second half is nearly 90 minutes long; in some scenes, it tests the patience of the viewers. Also, ideally, the film should have ended with the madness at the abandoned house. The Calcutta scene is unwanted and also plain silly.

Maalik – Trailer | Rajkummar Rao, Manushi Chhillar

Maalik Movie Review Performances:
Rajkummar Rao always gives his best and MAALIK is no exception. He looks completely convincing as a dreaded gangster. The scene where he hangs four people at once is memorable and proves yet again that he’s one of the best actors at present. Manushi Chhillar doesn’t have much to do initially but later she is a surprise. She neatly pulls off the role of a village girl. Anshumaan Pushkar (Badaun) has a crucial part and leaves a huge mark. After 12TH FAIL [2023], this is yet another praiseworthy performance from the talented actor. Prosenjit Chatterjee is decent and one wishes he had more to do in the film. Saurabh Shukla, Swanand Kirkire and Saurabh Sachdeva (Chandrashekhar) are dependable. Rajendra Gupta (Bindeshwar; Maalik’s father) and Baljinder Kaur (Parvati; Maalik’s mother) do well but are completely forgotten after a point. Yogi Raj (Langda) makes his presence felt. The actor playing the checkpoint cop is fair. Huma Qureshi looks stunning in the dance number.

Maalik movie music and other technical aspects:
Songs fail to entice. ‘Namumkin’ works due to the picturization. ‘Dil Thaam Ke’ is forgettable. ‘Raaj Karega Maalik’ doesn’t suit the film’s mood and setting. Ketan Sodha’s background score has a cinematic feel.

Anuj Rakesh Dhawan’s cinematography is satisfactory. Niharika Bhasin’s costumes are simple while Rita Ghosh’s production design is authentic. Vikram Dahiya’s action is gory. Zubin Sheikh’s editing could have been slicker.

Maalik Movie Review Conclusion:
On the whole, MAALIK presents Rajkummar Rao in a never-before-seen avatar, but beneath his striking transformation lies a routine gangster drama that treads familiar ground. With stiff competition at the box office, its prospects seem limited, though it might find some takers in the single screens of B and C centres.

SUPERMAN marks an impressive start to the new DC Universe delivering solid entertainment Movie Review: SUPERMAN delivers solid entertainment

Star Cast: David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, Nicholas Hoult

Director: James Gunn

Superman Movie Review Synopsis:
SUPERMAN is the story of a superhero fighting a tough battle. Superman (David Corenswet) has been battling evil on Earth for three years and has become a favourite of the local population in Metropolis, USA. He stops the country of Boravia from invading the neighbouring country of Jarhanpur. As a result, he gets into the bad books of billionaire Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult), who has a secret deal with Boravian president Vasil Glarkos (Zlatko Burić). As revenge, Superman is attacked badly by Ultraman aka ‘Hammer Of Boravia’. Lex goes all out and starts a campaign to defame and ultimately destroy Superman. He hits a jackpot when he retrieves a message sent by Superman’s parents. Meanwhile, Superman is living a double life, that of nerdy journalist Clark Kent. As Clark, he works for The Daily Planet and is in a relationship with Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan). She is aware of his superhero identity and has reservations about certain actions of Superman, causing friction in their relationship. Meanwhile, the allegations against Superman become quite serious, leading to his arrest. What happens next forms the rest of the film.

Superman Movie Story Review:
James Gunn’s story is fresh and yet has the trademark stamp of Superman. James Gunn’s screenplay is gripping and fast-paced. The dialogues are well-worded and sharp.

James Gunn’s direction is exemplary. He doesn’t waste time at all in introducing Superman and in a rare instance, even the base of the conflict is not explained. A unique write-up in the beginning sums it up and once that fades away, the narrative progresses ahead. What also strikes is that this is a very today’s film. Hence, it is in sync with the geopolitical tensions of the present age and also touches upon the role of social media. The beginning is fine but what ups the film is the interview between Lois and Superman. The film gets even better once Superman is imprisoned. The tension levels in the pocket universe track are raised significantly. The climax is nail-biting and applause-worthy.

On the flipside, not having a conventional intro is a well-intentioned idea. Yet, it takes a while to settle into the experience since the audience is not used to it. Secondly, this is not exactly a family-friendly fare as the violence is a bit more disturbing than the other superhero flicks. The much-hyped mid-credit and post-credit scenes are random and will disappoint viewers. Lastly, the buzz in India is limited.

Superman Movie Review Performances:
David Corenswet makes a risky move by essaying a character which has been played by Henry Cavill beautifully. However, David brings his own touch and does full justice. Rachel Brosnahan has a crucial part and she is exceptional. Nicholas Hoult is too good as the villain. The antagonist here is quite powerful and that adds to the entertainment quotient. Edi Gathegi (Mister Terrific) is the surprise of the film. He is like the other main hero of the film. Skyler Gisondo (Jimmy Oslen) leaves a tremendous mark while Sara Sampaio (Eve) and María Gabriela de Faría (The Engineer) make their presence felt. Anthony Carrigan (Rex/Metamorpho). Nathan Fillion (Green Lantern) and Isabela Merced (Hawkgirl) do well but get limited scope. Pruitt Taylor Vince (Jonathan Kent), Neva Howell (Martha Kent) and Wendell Pierce (Perry; editor of The Daily Planet) are fair. Zlatko Burić is over the top but it works for his character.

Superman movie music and other technical aspects:
John Murphy and David Fleming’s music has a cinematic feel. Henry Braham’s cinematography is breathtaking. The VFX matches global standards and even the 3D is impressive. The action is gory in many places. Judianna Makovsky’s costumes are rich while Beth Mickle’s production design is classy. William Hoy and Craig Alpert’s editing is slick.

Superman Movie Review Conclusion:
On the whole, SUPERMAN marks an impressive start to the new DC Universe. With its fast-paced narrative, standout performances and edge-of-the-seat moments, it delivers solid entertainment and ensures audiences get their money’s worth. At the box office, it has the potential to surprise and emerge as the third consecutive Hollywood hit, following F1: THE MOVIE and JURASSIC WORLD: REBIRTH.

LabelAarinya’s Aashaadam/Shravanam Saree Pop-Up Show – July 12 in Overland Park

LabelAarinya’s Aashaadam/Shravanam Saree Pop-Up Show – July 12 in Overland Park

Celebrate the season in style. LabelAarinya invites you to its exclusive Aashaadam/Shravanam Saree Pop-Up Show — a one-day event featuring a luxurious selection of elegant sarees and designer blouses.

Featured Collection Includes:

  • Kanchipuram Silks

  • Gadwal Sarees

  • Raw Mango Sarees

  • Silk Jamdani and Zari Kota

  • Mysore Silks

  • Variety of Fancy Sarees

  • Designer Ready-Made Blouses

Perfect for festive occasions, cultural events, or refreshing your wardrobe with timeless pieces.

Date: Saturday, July 12
Time: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Venue: Wilshire Farms Clubhouse
15600 Eby Street
Overland Park, KS 66221

Connect with LabelAarinya:

  • Join the WhatsApp group

  • Message on WhatsApp

  • Follow on Instagram @LabelAarinya

Use the QR codes in the flyer to stay connected and receive event updates.

Ram Lakkireddy – Proud Realtor in KC

I AM PROUD TO BE A PART OF MY GROWING KANSAS CITY.
Professional Background – Engineering, Construction, Technology, and Analytics…….,!
An Engineering professional, Describing himself as a positive and progressive individual with impressive career track from Civil Engineering graduation to the varied transits of aligned engineering, construction, management, technology and analytics experience.

Latha Collections Sravana Masam Collection Is Here!

Latha Collections USA – Overland Park, Kansas
Latha Collections USA is your go-to destination for elegant Indian ethnic wear, jewelry, and festive gifts. Based in Overland Park, we specialize in handpicked sarees, lehangas, blouse pieces, and traditional accessories perfect for all celebrations. We offer easy local pickup and fast shipping across the USA.

This Sravanamasam, explore our specially curated festive collection featuring:
✨ Gifting Sarees – Affordable and elegant
🧵 Banaras Blouse Pieces – Perfect for return gifts and thambulam
💍 Jewelry – Long harams, necklaces, earrings, bangles & more
👗 3 PC Sets & Lehangas – Traditional, vibrant, and festive ready!

Available in mixed colors and limited stock – ideal for poojas, gifting, and celebrations during the holy month of Sravanamasam.

📦 DM to order | 📍 Overland Park Pickup | 📲 716-398-9316

Ainapurapu Photography

Part Art, part Technology, part timing, part perspective – but the whole philosophy of Photography is to capture a moment in time and tell a lasting story. Inspired by this philosophy, I have been trying to capture the most interesting moments in Lives, Landscapes, Architecture and more.

07/07-10 ABKC Clothing Drive for BBBSKC

The Association of Bengalis Kansas City Sangam is organizing a “Clothing Drive” for Big Brothers Big Sisters Kansas City (www.bbbskc.org). My name is Sumouli Bhattacharyya, and I am proud to serve as the Event Coordinator for this year’s Big Brothers Big Sisters Kansas City Clothing Drive, taking place on July 10th at Overland Park, Kansas.

This event is a meaningful effort to collect gently used clothing and essential items that will either be donated directly to children and families in need or will be used to help fund BBBS’s youth mentorship programs. We are accepting donations of clean, gently used clothes of all sizes, shoes, jackets, and basic household items. All items should be placed in a trash bag and dropped off at our designated donation site as below. Your support will help provide much-needed resources to local families while directly contributing to the mission of empowering youth through mentorship. Let’s make a difference—one donation at a time.

Clothes Drop Off Dates: July 7 – July 9
Dropp Off Time: 5 PM – 9 PM
Drop Off Address: 8821 West 132nd Place, Overland Park, KS 66213
BBBS Clothes Pick Up Date: July 10

We invite the Kansas City Community to come together and make a meaningful difference, clean out your closets and donate gently used clothing to help change a child’s life. Every shirt, jacket, or pair of shoes brings us one step closer to building a brighter future for our youth. Give generously—because little things can lead to big changes.
For any question, please call Amit Choudhury: 816-739-8679

Sincerely
Sumouli Bhattacharyya
Event Coordinator BBBSKC Clothing Drive
Association of Bengalis Kansas City Sangam
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION 501 C (3) (Federal ID Number: 80-0016559)
www.abkcs.org
https://www.facebook.com/abkcs
https://www.charitynavigator.org/ein/800016559