1. In Majid Majidi’s Beyond The Clouds, Ishaan plays the lead role. It is not a supporting or a parallel part. It is the central author-backed role.

2. Majid Majidi had decided to cast Ishaan last year on the basis of auditions. Says a source, “At least 70-80 newcomers were auditioned for the part. Ishaan emerged the unanimous choice.”

3. The entire film will be shot in India. Although Majid Majidi’s Children Of Heaven was remade into Hindi by Priyadarshan as Bumm Bumm Bhole with Darsheel Safary in the lead, this is the Iranian genius’ first Indian film.

4. Majid came THIS close to directing an Indian film in 2012 when he was offered the opportunity to direct the sequel to the 2011 film Chillar Party co-directed by Vikas Bahl and Nitesh Tiwary (of Dangal fame). The sequel by Majid Majidi would’ve featured Tabu in the cast. Majid Majidi was in India for the proposed Chillar Party sequel as Vikas Bahl’s guest.

5. Though Ishaan makes his official debut as a leading man in Majid Majidi’s film, he was actually seen for the first time in Mahesh Manjrekar’s Vaah… Life Ho To Aisi where he had played his real-life brother Shahid Kapoor’s kid brother.

6. Very close to his brother Shahid, Ishaan takes career advice from his bade bhaiyya. In fact, Shahid urged Ishaan very strongly to take up Majid Majidi’s offer.

7. There were rumours of Ishaan doing Karan Johar’s remake of the Marathi blockbuster Sairat and the Hollywood tearjerker The Fault In Our Stars. Both false rumours.

8. Ishaan is fully into shooting Majid Majidi’s movie. No distractions of any kind are allowed. He is so into it, he puts step-papa Pankaj Kapur’s dedication to shame.

9. Though acting is his primary passion, Ishaan also loves dancing. Between the two brothers, Shahid and Ishaan, it’s hard to say who’s the better dancer. Widespread opinion among friends is that Ishaan does the moonwalk better than Shahid.

10. Mama’s Boy. Ishaan is not only very close to his mother actress Neelima Azim, he even resembles her.

The city that never sleeps is about to dream in desi. Dhols, saris, and the scent of roses will take over Lincoln Center this September.

NMACC Goes Global!

Let’s rewind for a second. If you’ve been following the who’s-who of Indian culture, you already know about the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) in Mumbai. Since its star-studded launch in 2023, it’s been the place where Bollywood royalty, fashionistas, and art lovers collide. But what happens when Nita Ambani decides to take this celebration global?

This September, NMACC is packing its bags (and a whole lot of sparkle) for its first-ever international showcase… India Weekend at Lincoln Center, New York. Think of it as the Met Gala meets Diwali, with a dash of Broadway and a whole lot of Bollywood.

Championing India’s Heritage

As the founder and chairperson of the Reliance Foundation, Nita Ambani has dedicated her life to uplifting communities, supporting women and children, and promoting education, healthcare, and sports across India. But it is her work in the arts that has truly set her apart. She envisioned the NMACC as a space to “preserve and promote Indian arts,” making the arts accessible and inclusive for all, and creating a platform where Indian tradition meets global innovation.

Why Everyone’s Talking About This Weekend

A Red-Carpet Gala Like No Other
The festivities kick off with ‘Grand Swagat’… an invite-only gala that promises more drama than a Karan Johar film. Expect couture by Manish Malhotra (yes, THE Manish!), a runway of India’s most exquisite weaves, and a menu curated by Michelin-starred chef Vikas Khanna. Basically, it’s the kind of party where you’ll want to Insta every moment.

A Theatrical Spectacle

“The Great Indian Musical: Civilization to Nation.” We’re talking 7,000 years of Indian history, told through song, dance, and jaw-dropping visuals. Over 100 performers, sets that’ll make your jaw drop, and costumes that would make even Ranveer Singh do a double-take.

A Bazaar in the Big Apple

Damrosch Park will transform into a desi mela… think yoga at sunrise, Bollywood dance-offs, cricket panels, and an artisan bazaar straight from the heart of India. It’s your one-way ticket to experience the colors, crafts, and chaos we all love.

Star Power, Baby

Expect performances by legends like Shankar Mahadevan and Shreya Ghoshal, plus a Garba and Dandiya Raas that’ll get even New Yorkers doing the two-step. And did we mention the grand finale? Phoolon Ki Holi (yes, with real flowers!) followed by a retro DJ night. We’re already practicing our thumkas.

Final Word

So, whether you’re a die-hard Bollywood buff, a foodie, a fashionista, or just someone who loves a good party… This is your invitation to join the celebration. Mark your calendars for September 12-14, 2025. The countdown to the biggest Indian cultural takeover NYC has ever seen has officially begun.

Stay tuned to MissMalini for all the behind-the-scenes gossip, exclusive interviews, and, of course, the most Insta-worthy moments from NMACC India Weekend at Lincoln Center. See you on the (red) carpet!