Jugni Ji is a remake of Alam Lohar’s orignal Jugni, with the usual hard hitting hip hop style Dr. Zeus is known for. Check out the Official music video below and let us know what you think! Jugni Ji is also available on iTunes worldwide so grab it today!

Check out www.envyentertainment.com for more updates and keep it locked on Urban Asian for the latest news in music!

Photographer and YouTube sensation, Irene Mahmud!

A determined fashionista, Mahmud has already made a name for herself in such a short time and with the opening of her own studio last year, it won’t be long until the biggest names in the world are calling on this little lady for a photo shoot! We had a chance to sit down with Mahmud to find out more about her, her work and her future plans, so get all the scoop right here!

 
UA: Why photography? What was the inspiration behind choosing photography as a career instead of just a hobby?

Irene Mahmud: Ever since I was young I was always into art, I started out drawing and as I grew older I began dabbling in different mediums. Creation became an addiction for me which eventually led to becoming a professional retoucher. It was during this time that my interest in photography really *sparked*, I would find myself looking at the photos I had to work with, frustrated, thinking “I could do this better!” I splurged on some equipment soon after and literally just.. started!
 
UA: Coming from a South Asian family we’ve got to ask didn’t your parents pressure you to become a doctor, engineer or lawyer? How did you family react to such an unusual career choice?
 
Irene Mahmud: They sure did! I was pre-med for four years and an accounting major for two years. They were definitely confused when I began taking photography seriously as a career simply because they didn’t “get it”. They still don’t fully understand, but they’ve become much more supportive and are always excited for me every step of the way.
 
UA: On your website it says that you are a self-taught photographer, have you ever considered, or have you taken classes since then to improve your skills?
Irene Mahmud: I have never taken a photography course and never really had plans to even though I still have SO much to learn. There are so many photographers that inspire me beyond belief and it would be an absolute dream to shadow or assist any one of them. I’m a very hands-on, visual person and learn best by experiencing and “doing”. There are just some things you can’t learn out of a book.

 
UA: How did you feel when you first opened up your own studio in 2011? After only 2 years of working as a photographer that is a great accomplishment!
 
Irene Mahmud: It felt absolutely amazing and I finally felt… validated. It was two years before that when I first picked up a camera but I would say I was shooting seriously for only a year. Throughout my journey I was always very hesitant to actually call myself a “photographer” — I felt embarrassed. We live in a time where electronics are relatively cheap and everything is done digitally and it has gotten to the point where everyone and their mother is a “photographer.” Everyone has these these egos and self-proclaimed titles regardless of the quality of their work, my biggest fear is/was to be grouped with them. Personally, I think its very important as an artist to constantly be looking forward with a hunger to climb – we should never feel satisfied with where we are. Its a disease of ambition — which left me feeling not ready to be a “professional.” After establishing a network of clientele and opening the doors to my studio and seeing my name on the door, I finally feel like this is real. I still have such a long way to go, studio or no studio — and I promise I will never take myself too seriously.
 
UA: What about the first time you saw your work published in a magazine! How did you feel? Was your family proud of your accomplishment?
 
Irene Mahmud: Oh my goodness, I squealed when i first saw it. I actually have it caught on tape: me tearing open a package of magazines, gasping in delight. My family was so excited, they scanned the pages and emailed them to all of our relatives.
 

From Irene Mahmud's spread featured in the Middle East's top Women's mag, Sayidaty Magazine.

UA: To date what would you consider your biggest achievement? What is a dream that you still wish to accomplish?

Irene Mahmud: hmm.. that’s a toughie. My biggest achievement was probably just getting over the hurdle with my parents, I felt like the biggest weight was taken off of my shoulders when I finally got their support. My dream is to shoot high end beauty campaigns for cosmetic companies. I’ve never had an interest in shooting fashion. Beauty is my passion and my niche, I have an unhealthy obsession for perfection — different, unique faces really intrigue me. Fun fact about me: my dream was to become a plastic surgeon during my pre-med days, I’ve always had that obsession for perfection.
 
UA: What led to the creation of your YouTube channel? You have quite the following and fans love your “outfit of the day” and tutorial videos!
Irene Mahmud: My YouTube began as a photoshoot-behind-the-scenes channel, my first video was my shoot with Rima Fakih. I eventually went off on a few vlog and beauty tangents but lately I’ve been trying to bring my channel back to what it was originally supposed to be, a fun little peek at my job.

 
UA: You’ve had the honor of shooting some beautiful faces like actors, reality stars and numerous beauty queens from around the world including our very own Miss USA Universe 2010, Rima Fakih! How was it shooting with Rima Fakih? What is something about Rima that you don’t think the world doesn’t see?

Irene Mahmud: Working with Rima was a blast! When she left for Miss USA I knew in the bottom of my heart that she had it in the bag even though she’s not the typical primped pageant girl. She is just too charming, all we did was goof around and laugh when we’d see each other — I don’t know if the world has gotten to see that carefree side of her yet.
 
UA: Which star is someone you’d do anything to hold a photo shoot with?
 
Irene Mahmud: Nicki Minaj! I’d make her look like the most glamorous, perfect little barbie (shh! you know it’s true!), and seriously though… we could totally be besties.
 

From Irene Mahmud's photo shoot with Aferdita Dreshaj, Miss Kosovo Universe 2011!

UA: I know I’ve got to ask this on behalf of all the drooling boys waiting to pounce on the sidelines but…. Are you single??
Irene Mahmud: ok ok ok.. I guess UA can have the exclusive: I’m married to my work.
 
UA: Let’s get a little wild now, what is a deep dark secret that no one else knows?
Irene Mahmud: -_-
 
 
UA: Okay, okay, next question? If you were trapped on a secluded island what are 4 things you absolutely must have to survive?
 
Irene Mahmud: Four very close friends :) You can’t go wrong with endless love and laughter.
 
UA: What’s your favorite flavor of ice cream?
 
Irene Mahmud: I don’t know if this counts but I make the best fried ice cream! If you’re asking for a flavor out of a tub I would have to go with strawberry cheesecake.

UA: Michigan gets pretty cold does it not? What’s one pass time you love to do to keep warm in the winter time?

Irene Mahmud: Going to the movies is one of my favorite things to do, ever. I love getting completely immersed in a film and just losing track of time. It might sound a little sad, but I go to the movies alone all the time — it’s super relaxing.

UA: What is your favorite brand of pink lipstick/lipgloss?
 
Irene Mahmud: It’s impossible for me to choose just one, I am *obsessed* with pink lipstick/gloss. Here we go: my favorite pink MAC lipsticks: Please Me, Show Orchid, Impassioned, Snob, Pink Plaid. Some others: NARS – Turkish Delight, Makeup Forever – Rouge Artist Intense #4, Heidi D – Tipsy.
 
 

 UA: What is a fast food franchise that you absolutely hate! Someplace where you can’t stand the food at all!
 
Irene Mahmud: McDonald’s, blegh!!
 
UA: As a fashion lover what are 3 stores that you would recommend to readers to grab the best fashion for less?
 
Irene Mahmud: Although I LOVE fashion.. I absolutely HATE shopping. It’s just so time consuming and exhausting, I hate going to the mall. If I ever need something quickly and can’t have my friends/personal-shoppers hunt things down for me I usually run over to TJ Maxx, Nordstrom Rack, or my friend’s boutique, Kiss & Tell.
 
 

Well there you have it! Our exclusive with the lovely Miss Irene Mahmud! We’d like to extend a special thanks to Irene Mahmud for taking the time to hang out with us it’s been a pleasure.

Keep up with this rising rock star on Twitter, Tumblr, YouTube and her Facebook page!

RDB, who have previously composed tracks for hit Bollywood films such as Namastey London, Singh is Kinng, Kambakkhtq Ishq, Yamla Pagla Deewana and Speedy Singhs, have produced the track ‘Chandni Oh Meri Chandni’ for the new upcoming film. The two hit makers performed exclusively for the legendary Sri Devi and veteran Rishi Kapoor at the film’s music launch event in Mumbai.

Check out the song below:

The song and video “Pardon My Swag”, is performed and produced by the The Glowsticks (TGS). Performed and produced by Ricky Basel and Verse-Atile. It’s a fun Electro-House-Pop-Rock-Hiphop track about folks who just love to have a good time with their swagger on and are kind enough to share this swagger to the world….. The video was shot in Prague, Czech.

This video and track is first of several releases The Glowsticks are planning to have this year so check out the video and grab a free download of the track right here on Urban Asian!

Please tell us something about your character Yash in Punar Vivaah!

GC: To begin with, my fans will get to see a totally different side to Gurmeet in the show. The role is extremely different from anything I have done before. I am essaying Yash who is a wedding planner by profession.  Yash was once a happily married man with two daughters but, unfortunately his wife passes away. The story then follows Yash once he decides to re-marry mostly for the sake of his two young daughters and also in a bid to find happiness and love once again. The show delves into the dynamics of re-marriage, showcasing the trials and tribulations that are a part of re-adjusting to a second life partner.

What was your preparation for this role?

GC: As an actor, one’s preparation comes through sheer observation of human behavior as we go through life. Both Yash and Aarti are real people faced with real scenarios in life. Playing them effortlessly can come only from putting yourself in the shoes of the character. You need to ask yourself, “How would I react if this were to happen to me?” Another important aspect of the role is that I am a parent. So, the role needs to be essayed with a different level of sensitivity, balance and maturity.

How many episodes have been shot and what is the background of this show?

 GC: The show is based in Bhopal.  We will be shooting there soon.

What is the USP of the show?

 GC: Punar vivaah is a mature, progressive show that sensitively captures the journey of a man and a woman, who having faced a debacle in their first attempts at marriage, are brave enough to give life a second chance. It’s a  story told with many relatable moments. The story doesn’t get preachy about the issue of remarriage nor does it try to deliver a social message. It is a sensitive look at what two people go through when they attempt to re-discover marital bliss a second time, the adjustments involved, the impact on the psyche of their children and how they hold it all together.

What were your reasons for taking up this role?

 GC: The fact that it was about two people willing to give life a second chance … after having faced a debacle in their first attempts at finding happiness. The role is challenging as it calls for a certain maturity and sensitivity in me as an actor and I will work towards making Yash extremely relateble through my performance.

What would you like to say about your new look?

 GC: My look in Punar vivaah is that of a family man. Suave and sophisticated on the whole but definitely not flamboyant like a swashbuckling casanova! Yash is a father of two daughters and should not come across as too obsessed with appearances. I have worked on the look and yes, I must say Debina (Bonnerjee) has contributed a great deal to the process. I used to try different looks in front of her and she used to click pictures of me, giving me suggestions about my new look. No clue what I would have done without her (laughs).

What is the biggest challenge in playing the character of Yash in Punarvivah?

 GC: Well, the challenge I would say lies in playing a father when I am not one. As I don’t have my own kids yet, I need to work extra hard at ensuring that the manner in which I handle my daughters comes across as very natural. I love children and it’s really fun working with such young kids as they portray such innocence to every scene that it’s very endearing. But I must add, they are quite a handful on the sets.

Do you visit your wife Debina on set or does she ever visit you?

 GC: In that case, I am very unlucky. Initially, I used to visit her sets but now when I’m home, she is working and vice versa… So I don’t get time to visit her, though she has often visited mine. But I like her show. In fact, Chidiya Ghar is my favourite show because when I see Debina dancing, acting and doing all those gestures… it feels great. I’m happy for her and with her!

What is your take on television actors leaving TV for films?

GC: Well, I am doing a few films which I wouldn’t judge anyone else. But as far as the daily soaps are concerned, Punar vivaah will be my last daily soap on television. That does not mean that I will totally quit TV. I would be open to reality shows and anchoring etc.

Be sure to catch this hottie on Punar Vivah, premiering February 20th only on Zee TV! Keep it locked on Urban Asian for more news on all the drama!

Q: How did LPNY come about and what attracted you to the story?

I and my manager met with the director Anu Menon and executives from Rose Movies to discuss the project. I loved the script and the story and so was sold on doing the film. The fact that its set in three parts, filmed in three wonderful cities and covers three chapters in the lead characters’ lives, makes it a unique and special film.

Q: What is special about your new film: London, Paris, New York

There are a lot of unique things about the film; it is a Hatke love story with a lot of romance and great music. Our experience from the film, I believe, is different from those who have done similar films in the past. The characters are different, the story is different. This is our way of telling a love story of today’s time and age. We have made a nice, cute film. We know our targets and hopefully the audience will appreciate the film.

Q: What was your thinking behind the musical soundtrack for London Paris New York?

I wanted to create sounds that are fresh and since the film touches on different emotions I could experiment with genres. I used Pop Romance in London, Electronic Sufi in Paris and Blues Rap in New York, all blended in with a true Bollywood style. What is even more unique is that it also features its multi-talented stars Zafar and Hydari singing their own songs on the OST. That is pretty cool we think and can’t wait to hear the OST.

Q: Would you describe London Paris New York as sensational?

Since it is about two people falling in love and the natural progression that follows anywhere in the world, it will be a little more daring than my first two films. However, it won’t have anything that’s offensive, obscene or attention-seeking. My personal conscience sets the limits, beyond which I would never venture.

Q: Were you clicking pictures most of the time on the sets of “London, Paris, New York” or romancing Aditi?

Both. She has a very interesting and photogenic face. She was also getting herself photographed.

Ali Zafar as 'Nikhil Chopra' and Aditi Rao Hydari as 'Lalitha Krishnan'

Q: What was it like filming in London, Paris and New York three cities?

Well, the three cities have a story written on all their walls. At some places, I would just wish I could put my easel down and start painting those streets. They are an artist’s paradise.

Q: What was it like working with co-star Aditi Rao Hydari?

Aditi has given me a new tag and I will have to live with it forever.

Q: How do you think your music and acting will be received?

I hope people like my acting and music. Right now, I only want to sing for my own films where I play the lead. At a later stage I may consider composing and singing for films where I’m not on screen.

Q: Will you be working with Katrina Kaif on your next music album?

I won’t start recording for my album for at least two years. As for Katrina’s involvement on my album, I don’t know where that news came from. We jammed together during our last film. We love music and discussed a possibility of recording together but there is nothing planned. Both Aditi and Katrina are really dear to me. They’re musically inclined and talented girls. If they are willing to be part of my album a few years later, it will be my pleasure to have them onboard.

Q: Who are your musical idols?

It is a big compliment for me when people compare me to Kishore Kumar because he is one man who I always look up to. He was so talented that I cannot dare to stand any closer to him. He was somebody who used to sing and act. Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra, these are the people whom I idolise a lot. They have done movies and they used to sing songs. I just hope, in my small way, I can be somewhere close to these big names.

Q: Do you have a message for your UK fans?

I had a great time shooting some of London Paris New York in London. I would love the British fans to see the film, as they will really relate to it and love it!

Keep it locked to UrbanAsian for all the latest Bollywood news!

After producing a movie for her daughter (Tell Me Oh Khuda!)  and the popular show Colors’ Maati Ki Baano, Hema Malini is talking to several channels about producing this fiction comedy! The show will likely air on SAB TV.  She is aiming for a comedy family drama with senior citizens.

Good luck Hema Malini!  Keep up with UrbanAsian to follow the show!

Manit Joura, last seen as Goldie on Zee TV’s Preet Se Bandhi Ye Dori Ram Milaayi Jodi, will be playing the character of Sujit, a suspect in the murder case of his friend.  Mayank Gandhi, from Zee TV’s Kasam Se and Sahara One’s Doli Saja Ke, is coming back to television after a hiatus for one and a half years.  He will be playing the fun loving and relaxed Ranveer, the character who is killed.  The episode starring the two will be aired on February 25th.  Don’t miss it!

DJ Unkz, known as Unkar Singh was a significant member of the Kudos Music Roadshow.  DJ Aman, the brother he left behind produced the track in his memory. He has coupled delicate music and a strong sense of feeling to work alongside vocalist Dev Dhillon who emotionally showcases his immaculate vocals sure to bring tears to anyone who has lost a friend, relative or colleague.

The track was released via iTunes on the 1st anniversary of DJ Unkz’s passing on the 15th of February 2012, in conjunction with a music video with special appearances from his musical contemporaries and friends.

“DJ Unkz – Always in our Hearts”  is available on iTunes

Show your support!

While performing in England, MC Special met with A-SLAM to record a new song, along with Vancouver artist Desi Method.  Their new track titled Hulara Tere Lak Dha can be found below. Like MC Special’s Facebook page to learn more about him and his album!

Tell us what you think about the video! Does it make you want to get up and dance? Check out Still Special!

Hulara Tere Lak Dha: