One Glorious Year Of 2 States

Dharma has had a long history of making movies that have a lasting impact on the minds of the people.

One such modern day classic is the movie 2 States - the love story of a North Indian boy and a South Indian girl – that enthralled the audiences and took them on an emotional ride that till date brings a smile on everyone’s face.

But all this started with a vision, a vision to give the audience an out of the box story to rejoice in. Karan Johar, the man at the helm of it all, thought of adapting the famous novel of the same name. From there on, the wheels were set in motion, the casting of the vivacious Alia Bhatt as Ananya and the dashing Arjun Kapoor for Krish Malhotra’s role added the much needed spice.

A full-fledged campaign was set in motion to reach out to people. The Facebook page and Twitter handle received instant engagement the moment they were started. Innovation was at the heart of this campaign. The curiosity generated by the release of the first trailer was taken to newer heights by the introduction of songs, songs which went on to become youth anthems. A whopping 4 million people liked the trailer in a matter of a week.

Hashtags like #ReasonsToDateANerd and #InCaseOfPrettyGirls also added a new dimension to proceedings with fans from all quarters giving in their own versions. A live chat session with the team of 2 States before the film’s release ensured that the fans got to speak with their favourite stars and ask them the nitty-gritty of the movie.

The entire buzz that was created pre-release got its due reward as the movie went on to become a massive success. It also crossed the coveted Rs. 100 crore mark and was loved by critics and audiences alike.

The awards and nominations followed suit with Abhishek Varman winning the Filmfare award for Best Debut Director, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy got the Filmfare award for the Best Music Director for their fantastic music. The lead duo of Ananya and Krish bagged the BIG Star Most Entertaining On-Screen Couple award. The film added another feather in its cap when it won the award for Best Film Marketing at the 21st Life OK Screen Awards.

The glorious journey has just completed its first year and we wish that you continue to love this epic tale of romance for many more years to come.

A Song For Every Mood

Human emotions are cherished at Dharma. The movies are known to highlight human emotions in ways that connect with people at a deeper level. One aspect that helps make this deep connect is the songs. And Dharma movies have one for every emotion. We pick out five such songs whose lyrics and music made you go on that emotional rollercoaster ride.

Chaandaniya 

The love story of Krish and Ananya is perhaps aptly described in this song. The pain of separation is hard to bear and any couple who has been a part of such a situation could relate to the lyrics of the song. The tears in Krish’s and Ananya’s eyes are sure to make you sad. But, that’s the impact that the song has on you.

Suraj Hua Maddham                                                              

There is hardly a love story that is as intense as the one between Rahul and Anjali in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. The young and vibrant Rahul romancing the vivacious Anjali is a sight most moviegoers still behold. And when ‘Suraj Hua Maddham’ was played, that fact was imprinted on people’s mind. Sonu Nigam and Alka Yagnik’s mesmerizing voice captivated the young and old.

Where’s The Party Tonight! 

Every generation in Bollywood has had a party song of their own. KANK gave the current generation one when ‘Where’s The Party Tonight?’ came out. The DJs had it on their system and so did the general public. The duo of Rhea and Rishi showed how to part hard and have a ball as they grooved to the song’s tune.

Maahi Ve                                      

In India, music and weddings go hand in hand. Over the years, many songs have been danced to during various wedding ceremonies. But, ‘Maahi Ve’ made sure that not just individuals but the entire family shook a leg or two and joined in the fun. The catchy lyrics and the peppy music provided a lethal combination to set people free of their inhibitions.

Deva Shree Ganesha                                                        

Lord Ganesha is one of the most loved Gods in the country. And Ajay-Atul’s composition ‘Deva Shree Ganesha’ captured the fervor of a religious activity to perfection. The song was played over and over again during the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi and brought about a religious inclination in the minds of the people.

Thus, Dharma serves you a song for every mood. What’s your mood today?

Happy Birthday Alia Bhatt

It is time to blow the birthday candles as the darling Alia Bhatt celebrates her birthday today. The bubbly, cute and versatile actress has become a fan favorite with her spirited performances.

In her very first film, SOTY, which turned out to be a blockbuster, she showed promise of becoming a star. In her next Dharma film, “2 States” she established herself as an actor of great dramatic caliber. In her third film, “Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhaniya” she showed a comic side which wowed audiences everywhere.

But, before all the stardom came the hard work and perseverance. It is this “zest” as Karan Johar likes to put it, that saw her bagging the lead role for SOTY. Manish Malhotra who was the costume designer for the movie also hails Alia for being stylish and found it great to dress her up. So much so, that in his own words they “just went on and on with the clothes…”.

With the hits piling up one by one, we can only hope that she keeps entertaining us for a long time. But, till we see her again on the silver screen, here’s a collection of songs from Alia’s movies -  and a video of the adorable fashionista for the fans to enjoy.

bit.ly/BestOfAliaBhatt

bit.ly/ShanayaInTheMaking

Once again, Dharma Productions wishes her a very happy birthday and much happiness in life.

Happy Birthday Sajid Nadiadwala

It’s birthday time for one of Bollywood’s most successful producers, the owner of Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment Pvt. Ltd. – Sajid Nadiadwala.

A man of his words, Sajid has had a most productive and enormously successful 2014.

With another year and several movies to look forward to, the Producer-Director is absolutely positive about life. He believes, ‘Everything in the world is about intention’ and it’s your intentions that take you to places.

Dharma Productions wishes Sajid a very ‘Happy Birthday’ and a most eventful year ahead.

And yet more awards for Dharma!

The last week of January came as a bag full of happiness for Dharma Productions. In the face of Stardust and Bollywood’s coveted Filmfare Awards 2015, was yet another reason to celebrate.

With nominations in several categories like music, playback and lead roles, the team of 2 States were in a celebratory mood already. Their hard-work was duly acknowledged, as they bagged yet more awards. The treasured Black Lady of Filmfare came home to Dharma with awards in 2 categories - Best Director Debut (Male) - Abhishek Varman & Best Music Director - Shankar Ehsaan Loy.

While there were some amazing movies in the year gone by, this movie hit a rather sweet chord with the audience. Adapted from Chetan Bhagat's novel by the same name, 2 States tackled a subject of much curiosity - a love story between a North Indian boy and a South Indian girl.

With Arjun Kapoor and Alia Bhatt playing the lead roles, the movie grossed over 100 crores at the box office. And we are pleased that all this toil hasn't gone unnoticed with the jury at several award functions.

We congratulate the winners and wish them many more awards in the future.

#Resolutions2015

The New Year is here and everyone’s busy making resolutions they can’t keep. Lucky for us, the lovely characters of Dharma films have also taken up New Year Resolutions and we look up to them when it comes to keeping their promises.

Here’s a list of some of our famous Dharma characters and their New Year’s resolutions for the year 2015:

The very quirky Meeta from Hasee Toh Phasee says that this year she’s going on a diet. Toothpaste is no longer a part of her diet anymore.

                                                  

Dostana’s Kunal and Sam have decided that running after the same girl can be injurious to friendship. After a lot of thought, the two friends came to a conclusion that their resolution for 2015 is to not compete with each other for the same girl!
                                        

                                          

Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’s Anjali Sharma sent Rahul Khanna on a guilt trip and he resolves not to cheat at basketball. The same may not apply to other sports he says, but he assures us that he won’t cheat at basketball. Ever.

                                         

Pooh from Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham says her New Year’s resolution is to make it a point to attend Aarti every morning, Rohan or no Rohan.

                                        

After marriage, 2 states’ Ananya has been spending lots of quality time with her mother-in-law, Kavita. After receiving tons of criticism from Kavita, Ananya has decided her New Year’s resolution is to learn how to cook some delectable North Indian food.
                                           

                                         

Gippi has taken a firm oath to go on a yo-yo diet in 2015. She plans to drop a yoyo into her food and eat only whatever sticks to it!
                                         

                                        

Now that you’ve seen a few New Year’s resolutions of some of our most memorable characters, Dharma productions would love to know what New Year’s resolutions you’ve taken up? Will it be to cut back on a few calories? Spend less on junk food and parties and focus more on savings? Or simply complete all those resolutions of 2014 that never made it to your checklist. Tell us your New Year’s resolutions in the comments below.

#DialogueFlashback

Since we are doing a flashback, how about looking at some of the memorable dialogues of 2014 that stayed with us long after the films we saw. Classic lines from Dharma films which we will never forget and which will go down in our memory as some of the best scenes.

                                                   

Here’s a recap: Remember that scene in Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania where Kavya tells Humpty “Main Paida hi hot hui thi” when he looks at her. That’s a classic Alia Bhatt moment. Kavya steals the scene from Humpty with her class act response and sparkles the scene with her quick wit.

And if that was not enough, here’s what Kavya says later, “Shaadi karungi to Kareena wale designer lehenge mein hi, warna dulhe ko tata bye bye kardo” – which is a direct reference to Kareena’s sassy style and how Kavya’s character is influenced by her role model. This laugh out loud moment in the film highlights Kavya’s attitude and spunk.
                                           

Another of our favourite dialogues this year was in 2 States. "Punjabi mother-in-law se khatarnak kuch bhi nahi hota iss duniya mein!" Krish warns Ananya about his fiery mother who Ananya has no clue about, and is about to meet. This funny moment totally makes it to one of the best scenes of the year.
In 2 States, the lovers Krish and Ananya discuss the ‘pyar ka bomb’ that needs to be exploded in their respective families before the match is made. This becomes the highpoint of their discussion in a dialogue that stays with us. The ‘pyar ka bomb’ is a killer phrase to use. Like drop the love on any unsuspecting person you like!

The too funny scenes between Humpty and Kavya in Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania are worth watching again. Their little quibbles/tiffs about dating rules and social media etiquette will make you want to rewind all those scenes. Why not start now! Happy Flashbacking!

#SongFlashback

The year is coming to an end. But that’s when the party begins, isn't it? Time to put on your dancing shoes and hit the dance floor! This year was a bumper year for Dharma songs as many dance numbers from Dharma films were chartbusters and kept the party going all year round. There were other memorable songs too. So let’s #SongFlashback Dharma style!

Who can forget the biggest party anthem of the year? Saturday from Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania. The song that caught on like a rage with party-holics and was a big hit at all the discotheques. Not only that, its catchy beat, and the repeat ‘Saturday’ hook has become a mantra for most young people. Saturday, sung by Indeep Bakshi, Badshah, Akriti Kakkar, music composed by Sharib-Toshi and pictured on the gorgeous Alia Bhatt and the super-cool Humpty – Varun Dhawan.
                                                     
The other immensely popular song from HSKD is Samjhawan. The song sung by Alia Bhatt evoked the journey of love, pain, and longing and beautifully summed up all the emotions in a soulful rendition. Samjhawan is the perfect antidote for love and yet, it tells us that the remedy to love, is to love more!
                                                 

                                                       

Earlier in the year, 2 States had some soulful songs too. The melodious Chaandaniya shows how lovers can be separated by distance and are still inseparable in love. The feeling is best summed in these lines, ‘Tere bina.. O mahiya…Din dariya, rain jazeere lagde ne’. Written by lyricist Amitabh Bhattacharya and sung by Mohan Kanan, Yashita Sharma, music by Shankar Ehsaan Loy, Chaandaniya is one of the most loved tracks of the year. 

                                       
Speaking of soulful tracks, Zehnaseeb from Hasee Toh Phasee is also a great song. It is a  emotional love track composed by the talented duo- Vishal-Shekhar, and evocatively written by Amitabh Bhattacharya. Shekhar Ravjiani and Chinmayi Sripaada sung the song with a lilt that stays with you forever. The opening lines of the song are enough to make anyway forget their woes and fall in love. ‘Zehnaseeb, Zehanaseeb…Tujhe chaahun betahasha zehnaseeb…Mere kareeb, mere habeeb…Tujhe chaahun betahasha zehnaseeb…”
                                         

The year ends with a catchy number from Ungli. ‘Unchi wali heel pehen ke…’ dancing comes ‘Basanti’ Shraddha Kapoor in the Emran Hashmi starrer. The Dance Basanti song is sung by Vishal Dadlani & Anushka Manchanda and composed by Sachin-Jigar and you can see from the video that the mood of the song is party-manic and when the lyrics goes ‘Basanti visphotak bas ek smile hai…Tu sar se paaon tak poori missile hai…’ who can stop?

So then what are you waiting for? Start the party with #SongFlashback! Tell the DJ to play your fave number!

#Flashback2014 - 2 States

North Indians and South Indians have always been poles apart. Especially since the two communities are geographically located far apart from each other. In Abhishek Verma’s ‘2 States’, we see one such instance of North meets South when the Malhotras meet the Swaminathans.

The film portrays a young couple from two completely different cultural backgrounds falling in love and all the quirky situations that take place between the two families. ‘2 States’ has a very strong on-screen presence owing to the simple narrative style coupled with the fact that the film was an adaptation of well renowned author Chetan Bhagat's best-selling work. The film is a magical north indian-south indian love story you wish would never end. It creates a world where characters don’t shout to be heard. They just belong to a world where being proper, politically or otherwise, is not always a pre-condition.

In India, one doesn't simply marry the boy/girl; you marry their entire family. 2 States documents Ananya Swaminathan and Krish Malhotra's trials as they try their best to convince their families of their love towards each other. Unfortunately their effort of bringing their families together threatens to tear them apart.

‘2 States’ has more than its fair share of Madrasi-Punjabi jokes. Throughout the beginning of the film, Krish uses his Punjabi-ness as an excuse for everything. Sample this, "Punjabi hoon. Khoon garam hota hai humara." The song-and-dance sequence at Krish's cousin's wedding undermines the seriousness of the culture clash but provides a good enough opportunity for 2 States to take a strong, unapologetic and rather hilarious stand on dowry -- something that North Indians have normalised a little too much.

Alia Bhatt comes off as a complete surprise. She leaves behind her earlier films, and gets into a whole different character; she is easy, fresh and natural. Alia really grows into her character and makes you believe that she's a career-oriented IIM-A grad. She has simply done a phenomenal job of acting in this film.

All in all, there's nothing in this world that should hold you back from watching 2 States. If you're as desi as the next person, you’ll definitely want to run home after watching this film and give your parents a big hug.

#Flashback 2014

2014 has been quite a big year for Dharma Productions as it has seen the premiere of four amazing films i.e. Hasee to Phasee, 2 states, Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania and Ungli. These films were big hits at the box-office. People who watched Hasee to Phasee had fallen head over heels in love with the protagonists; Sidharth Malhotra and Parineeti Chopra. The film touched the hearts of many people as they could easily relate to the whole opposites attract scenario. This romantic comedy mirrors the quirks in human nature subtly, and provides humor in everyday situations; in the family and amongst friends. If you're looking to rediscover the magic of goofy love, give this movie a shot.

The second epic Dharma film of 2014, 2 States, was another great hit amongst the audience. The film portrays two people from two completely different cultural backgrounds falling in love and all the quirks in between. What makes 2 states work was the simple narrative coupled with the fact that the film was an adaptation of well renowned author Chetan Bhagat's best-selling work. The film is a magical north Indian-south Indian love story you wish would never end. It creates a world where characters don’t shout to be heard. They just belong to a world where being proper, politically or otherwise, is not always a pre-condition.

Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania, which released in July 2014, was the third dhamakedar Dharma film of this year. This film was a great success as Varun Dhawan and Alia Bhatt played the lead roles and did a sensational job at that. They win you over with their honest, unbridled performances. It was an excellent spin off on Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, and the youngsters of this generation could totally relate to this film.

Finally, the fourth and final release of the year, Ungli was an important film as it took on the social evils in society. The ungli team, with their dialoguebaazi, went out of their way to put an end to corruption. All in all, 2014 was an amazing year for Karan Johar and the whole of Dharma productions. Karan Johar is most excited as he is already working on ‘Ae Dil Hai Mushkil’ and a bevy of interesting forthcoming projects that Dharma has recently announced for a 2015 release. Here’s wishing that 2015 will bring all the love and success that 2014 has brought us.

Chat with the Cast of 2 States - Arjun Kapoor, Alia Bhatt & Chetan Bhagat [Rapid Fire Round]

Revealed - the secret joke between Arjun Kapoor & Abhishek Varman!

Chetan Bhagat is very impressed with Alia & cannot stop praising the beautiful actress! He calls Alia a 'super shanni' and thinks she is 'clever', but just pretends the other way round.

Your favourite stars speak their mind in an unplugged version especially for you. Here’s your chance to grab a first-hand experience as they share their views over the movie, love and friendship :)

Watch the video to know how rapid the stalwarts of 2 States were in the rapid fire round!

2 States hits the Glorious 100cr mark!

The love story continues to spread love across the country as it hits the glorious 100cr mark!

Krish and Ananya’s love for each other, their struggle to fight all odds, their courage to stand with each other when their families collided at their union has moved the audiences. They have successfully redefined the meaning of love. Krish and Ananya’s fans have started believing that when you truly love someone, you just need to strongly stand by them and believe in them!

Even after a month, fans are still flocking theatres to catch a glimpse of the handsome Krish and the beautiful Ananya on the big screen. ‘2 States’ has successfully managed to create a unique place in the hearts of audiences all over.