Gajraj Rao | Business Upturn

‘Dupahiya’: All you need to know about the new rural comedy

Jennifer Philip — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 14:50:23 +0000

Prime Video’s latest Indian comedy series, Dupahiya, brings a fresh yet familiar flavor to the OTT rural-comedy genre. Set in the fictional village of Dhadakpur, Bihar, the show revolves around a stolen motorcycle—fondly referred to as Dupahiya—which sets off a chain of events filled with humor, chaos, and heartwarming moments. With a stellar cast, engaging plot, and a mix of quirky Bihari accents and social satire, Dupahiya promises to be an entertaining watch.

Plot Overview

Dhadakpur, often dubbed the “Belgium of Bihar,” is gearing up to celebrate 25 years of being crime-free. However, the peaceful village is thrown into turmoil when a rare motorcycle, purchased as a wedding gift, is stolen just seven days before the ceremony. The disappearance of the bike sets off a frantic search involving the bride’s family and her ex-lover, leading to a series of hilarious and unpredictable events. As the villagers scramble to recover the Dupahiya, the stakes rise with not just a wedding, but also a jubilee trophy and the town’s reputation on the line.

Cast and Crew

The series boasts a strong ensemble cast, with veteran actors and rising stars bringing the story to life.

Gajraj Rao, known for his impeccable comic timing, plays a central role, likely adding layers of humor and warmth to the narrative.
Renuka Shahane, another seasoned performer, is expected to deliver a nuanced performance, contributing to the show’s charm.
Sparsh Shrivastava, recognized for his work in Jamtara, brings youthful energy to the story.

The series is helmed by creators Avinash Dwivedi, Chirag Garg, and Salona Bains Joshi, who aim to craft a comedy that balances lighthearted moments with deeper social themes. The script, written by Dwivedi and Garg, leans on situational humor, quirky characters, and local flavors, reminiscent of Panchayat‘s appeal.

What to Expect

A ‘Panchayat’-like feel: Fans of rural comedies will find Dupahiya in a similar vein, with a humorous yet insightful take on small-town life.
Bihar-centric storytelling: Unlike Panchayat, which was set in Uttar Pradesh, this series brings out the distinct cultural and linguistic essence of Bihar.
Quirky humor and broad life lessons: The show mixes situational comedy with deeper reflections on community values and aspirations.
A mystery twist: While primarily a comedy, the stolen bike adds an investigative angle, keeping audiences engaged.

Where to Watch

Dupahiya is available to stream on Prime Video, making it an easy pick for fans of Indian comedy-dramas looking for a fun and engaging watch.

With its engaging plot, stellar cast, and lighthearted yet thoughtful storytelling, Dupahiya is shaping up to be a must-watch for lovers of the rural-comedy genre.

Dupahiya premieres March 7: Plot, cast, release time, and where to watch

Matrika Shukla — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 07:00:54 +0000

Get ready for a delightful journey into the heart of India’s countryside with “Dupahiya,” a new comedy-drama series premiering on March 7, 2025, exclusively on Amazon Prime Video.

Plot

Set in the idyllic village of Dhadakpur, often referred to as the “Belgium of Bihar” for its cleanliness and beauty, the series celebrates the community’s pride in maintaining a crime-free environment for 25 years. As the village gears up for its Silver Jubilee celebration, complete with trophies and promises of clean water, personal aspirations intertwine with communal festivities. Central to the narrative is Roshni, the village’s most beautiful girl, who is set to marry Kuber. Initially arranged to wed Kuber’s elder brother Durlabh, Roshni’s decision shifts upon learning of Kuber’s connection to Mumbai, reflecting her dreams of a modern city life. Simultaneously, her brother Bhugol harbors ambitions of becoming a Bollywood superstar, adding layers of humor and relatability to the storyline.

Cast and Crew

The series boasts a stellar ensemble cast, including:

Gajraj Rao
Renuka Shahane
Bhuvan Arora
Sparsh Shrivastava
Shivani Raghuvanshi
Yashpal Sharma

Directed by Sonam Nair, known for her work on “Masaba Masaba,” and produced by Salona Bains Joshi and Shubh Shivdasani under the banner of Bombay Film Cartel, “Dupahiya” promises a blend of humor and heartfelt storytelling.

Release Details

Date: March 7, 2025
Time: Typically, new content on Amazon Prime Video becomes available at midnight GMT. For viewers in India, this translates to 5:30 AM IST on the release date.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video

“Dupahiya” offers a refreshing portrayal of rural India, highlighting the aspirations and dreams of its characters against the backdrop of a close-knit community. With its engaging plot and talented cast, the series is poised to resonate with audiences seeking both humor and depth in storytelling.

Don’t miss out on this heartwarming series that beautifully captures the essence of small-town life and the universal pursuit of dreams.

For a sneak peek, check out the official trailer below:

WATCH: Diljit Dosanjh’s London concert witnesses heartwarming moment with Gajraj Rao

Aditya Bhagchandani — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 06:59:08 +0000

During his recent Dil-Luminati Tour concert in London, singer Diljit Dosanjh shared a special moment with actor Gajraj Rao, who attended the show at The O2 Arena. This was the second of Diljit’s shows in the venue, where he brought the house down with his popular tracks, including “Ikk Kudi.”

Gajraj Rao Shares Magic of the Concert

Gajraj Rao expressed his joy on Instagram Stories, sharing a selfie from the concert and describing the experience as “unforgettable” and “touched by magic.” He also posted glimpses of the venue and a video capturing the electric atmosphere as Diljit took to the stage.

#WATCH – Diljit Dosanjh bows before Gajraj Rao; actor kisses the singer's hand at his London concert.#DiljitDosanjh #GajrajRao #ViralVideo #Concert #Singer pic.twitter.com/DZ0khfPWMN

— TIMES NOW (@TimesNow) October 6, 2024

Diljit’s Heartfelt Gesture Towards Gajraj Rao

In a touching moment shared by Diljit on his Instagram Stories, the singer, noticing Gajraj near the stage, held his hand, bowed down, and sat on the floor as a mark of respect. Gajraj responded by kissing Diljit’s hand, shaking it, and folding his hands in acknowledgment. The heartwarming exchange between the two stars was met with cheers from the audience.

Diljit Sings ‘Ikk Kudi’ and Shares Tour Highlights

Diljit also shared videos from the concert, highlighting performances from his London shows and his upcoming show on October 18th. He performed “Ikk Kudi,” a song from the 2016 film Udta Punjab, which became a fan favorite. The singer’s rendition of “Ikk Kudi – Club Mix” featuring Alia Bhatt has maintained its popularity over the years.

Diljit continues his Dil-Luminati Tour, with the next stop being Germany, thrilling fans across the globe.

‘Maidaan’: Ajay Devgn reveals poster; Here’s when the movie is set to release – Find out

Shukrta Vaigankar — Sat, 30 Mar 2024 06:16:58 +0000

Ajay Devgn is now making waves with his film ‘Shaitaan’, which was released lately. Meanwhile, the actor’s much anticipated sports drama film ‘Maidaan’ has been allocated a release date. Following the release of the film’s trailer and songs, a new poster and important announcement were made today. The film will premiere in theatres on April 10. Priyamani, along with Ajay, will play a key role in the film.

Maidaan will be released in IMAX.

Ajay Devgn unveiled a new poster for ‘Maidaan’, which will be released in an IMAX version.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C5F9QsGs3dK/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading

Ajay Devgn will play Syed Abdul Rahim in the film, which depicts the story of an unsung hero who helped take Indian football to new heights and earned national recognition.

The censor accepted Ajay Devgn’s film ‘Maidaan’ with no cuts and a ‘U’ rating. The picture runs for 3 hours and 2 minutes, which may limit the number of multiplex screenings. The advance booking for the film will begin on April 2, one week before its premiere.

Amit Sharma directed Maidaan, which was produced by Boney Kapoor, Akash Chawla, Arunav Joy Sengupta, and Zed Studios. Ajay Devgn stars as Syed Abdul Rahim, a football coach. Maidaan focuses on India’s golden football era, which ran from 1952 until 1962. Maidaan also stars Priyamani, Gajraj Rao, and Rudranil Ghosh in supporting roles. Maidan will compete with Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff’s latest film, ‘Bade Miyan Chhote Miyan’. Both films will premiere in theatres on April 10.

Maidaan trailer out: Ajay Devgn aces his role as the unsung hero who refined Indian football and its core- Watch

Sheetal Choudhary — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 14:43:33 +0000

Ajay Devgn is currently gearing up for the release of his much-anticipated film Maidaan. Ahead of the film’s release, the makers have released a new poster, spiking up the audience’s curiosity. Based on a biographical drama, the film revolves around coach Sayed Abdul Rahim and his contribution to football in India.

The trailer was released by the makers on the 7th of March. It shares intriguing insights from the gripping storyline of Maidaan and the role of the lesser-known hero. The trailer showcases how Rahim envisioned a dream for India to become a strong competitor for the popular game football. The story of a man who dreamt of putting India at the forefront with its prominence in football.

Ajay Devgn, who is playing the role of Rahim in the film took to his Instagram account and shared the trailer. He captioned the post by writing, “A team that carved its legacy with every step! A man who devoted his life to football And one #Midaan where the whole world witnessed it all… Bringing the Golden Era of Indian Football to life!”

Have a look at the post

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ajay Devgn (@ajaydevgn)

As soon as the trailer went viral, fans started pouring in their exciting messages. A user wrote, “Respect to Ajay Devgan.” While another stated, “Finally this movie is coming Eagerly waiting since 4 years.” A user stated, “Mind blowing ji excellent movie.”

Maidaan is directed by Amit Ravindernath Sharma. It features Ajay Devgn, Priyamani, Gajraj Rao and Bengali star Rudranil Ghosh in the lead. the film is presented by Zee Studios, Bayview Projects in association with Lime Films.

The film is produced by Boney Kapoor, Zee Studious, Akash Chawla, and Arunava Joy Sengupta. The film is all set to hit the theatres around Eid this year. It is going to have a major box-office clash with Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff starrer Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, which is also slated to release around the same time.

Gajraj Rao reveals how his wife’s reacted to his apprehensions on doing ‘Badhaai Ho’ film

Aman Shukla — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 14:41:24 +0000

Actor Gajraj Rao has uncovered his wife, Sanjana Rao’s response after he shared his apprehensions about his role in the 2018 film Badhaai Ho with her. In a recent interview, he reviewed that she called neither ‘Ranbir Kapoor nor Ranveer Singh’ and that he should take on the role.

Directed by Amit Sharma, Badhaai Ho spins around a lady in her 50s who gets pregnant and needs to confront the wrath of society. The film includes the late Surekha Sikri, Ayushmann Khurrana, Neena Gupta, and Sanya Malhotra. It crossed three years on Monday. The film has bagged several National Awards

In an interview with Mumbai Mirror, he said, “Badhaai Ho changed my life! Amit Sharma (director) and I have known each other for more than two decades. When he narrated the script to me, I found it amazing. My first thought was, ‘Is this for real? Am I getting this offer?’, before realizing that it indeed was real… But then, my apprehensions kicked in and I was conscious if I could do justice with the character of Jitendra Kaushik because never before was I offered such a big role. But Amit was hellbent on casting me.”

Talking on his wife’s response Gajraj Rao said, “When I told my wife that it was a story about a couple expecting a child in their 50s and that people might make fun of me, she blatantly stated that I was no Ranbir Kapoor or Ranveer Singh, and even if the film does not work, it won’t affect my career or image. So I decided to go ahead with it.”

Gajraj Rao pens an emotional note for late-actress Surekha Sikri

Mansi More — Fri, 16 Jul 2021 08:37:30 +0000

Veteran Hindi theatre artist, Surekha Sikri took her last breath at the age of 75 in Mumbai. The actress was known for her vital role in the TV serial, Balika Vadhu. She was also seen in the 2018 movie, Badhai Ho. Co-star Gajraj Rao mourned her demise and penned an emotional note for the late actress.

Gajraj shared a post on his social media account and wrote, “Making a film is like traveling in a train, where the journey is a destination in itself. You meet all kinds of co-passengers here. Some open up their tiffins and hearts to you, while some guard their luggage and eye you with suspicion. Badhaai Ho will always be that special train journey that brought me to a new station in life, and I’m truly thankful that we had someone like Surekha Ji as the emotional anchor of this ship.”

Further, he recalled memories with Surekha Sikri and wrote, “She was definitely the youngest at heart on the sets and had no airs about her stature or endless experience as an actress. Her craft was defined by her years of homework and ‘riyaaz’ as an actress, combined with a child-like enthusiasm. As all journeys must end eventually, we bid goodbye to Surekha Ji today. Thank you, Surekha Ji, for all the wisdom and memories you have left us with. #rip #surekhasikri #badhaaiho @iamitrsharma.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Gajraj Rao (@gajrajrao)

In the movie, Gajraj Rao played the role of Surekha Sikri’s son. He shared some pictures clicked on the sets in his post. We can see other actors like Neena Gupta, Sanya Malhotra, and Ayushmann Khurrana with Surekha Sikri in the pictures.

‘Badhai Ho’ was a special film for the late actress, as she won the National Award for Best Supporting Actress. Surekha was last seen in the Netflix anthology, Ghost stories, directed by Zoya Akhtar.

Rajkummar Rao and Bhumi Pednekar’s Badhaai Do will address Lavender marriage

Shreya Varanasi — Mon, 07 Dec 2020 06:59:23 +0000

Badhaai Ho was a major success when it was released in 2018. Ayushmann Khurrana, Sanya Malhotra, Gajraj Rao and Neena Gupta won people’s hearts with the film revolving around accidental parental pregnancy. The film took the viewers on a comedic journey from resistance to acceptance. Now the makers of the film are keen on continuing the franchise with Badhaai Do. Set for a 2021 release, Badhaai Do will be starring Rajkummar Rao and Bhumi Pednekar in lead roles.

While the production is yet to begin, very little is known about the plot. Hunterr fame director Harshvardhan Kulkarni promised that the sequel will be as entertaining as the 2018 hit. Now in an exclusive report by PeepingMoon, it is revealed that Badhaai Do will revolve around Lavender marriage. “Lavender marriage is described as a marriage between a man and a woman in which one or both parties are homosexual. Also called a marriage of convenience, it’s done to hide one or both partners’ sexuality to protect public reputation. Badhaai Do taps this same relevant social issue but in the most hilarious manner just like the first part. The film is about the goof-ups that follow when a gay and a lesbian (played by Rajkummar and Bhumi respectively) get married to each other due to their family pressure,” revealed a source.

In the film, Rajkummar Rao will be playing the role of the only male cop in a Mahila Thana while Bhumi will take on the role of a PT teacher who aspires to play handball for India’s national team. While the concept is new to most of the people, the film is expected to be a progressive step towards addressing homophobia and creating awareness of Lavender marriage.

The source adds, “A Lavender marriage looks like a typical marriage but in reality, the couple lives apart and lead entirely separate lives. They are pressured to live a double life in the fear of being disowned by society. Badhaai Do fights this taboo sensitively and with gentle humour.”

Neena Gupta celebrates 2nd anniversary of ‘Badhaai Ho’, shares picture from set

News Desk — Sun, 18 Oct 2020 11:24:26 +0000

Badhaai Ho completes its second anniversary this year. The movie was one of the biggest hits of 2018. The script, cast and performance was a huge hit as it was a family entertainment film. Director Amit Sharma casted Ayushmann Khurrana, Gajraj Rao, Sanya Malhotra and Neena Gupta as lead roles in the movie.

Neena Gupta is a popular Indian veteran actress and a director of TV serials. She made her comeback on the big screen with this film after her Instagram post asking for work was viral. She also won the Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actress in the year 2019, for the role she played in Badhaai Ho. As a memory from the ‘Badhaai Ho’ set, Neena Gupta has uploaded a picture of the final dance song ‘Morni Banke’ to her Instagram.

The caption for the adorable photo read, “Doe saal ho gaye thank you all missing every one.” Ayushmann and Sanya were quick to comment as they replied with multiple heart emojis in the comments section.

Have a look at the post:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Neena Gupta (@neena_gupta)

Bhumi Pednekar and Rajkummar Rao’s Badhaai Do is all set to go in January 2021

News Desk — Sun, 18 Oct 2020 08:58:42 +0000

Rajkummar Rao and Bhumi Pednekar are all set to share screen space for a sequel titled Badhaai Do. The announcement was made on the second anniversary of Badhaai Ho.

The film titled Badhaai Do will be directed by Harshavardhan Kulkarni and it will be produced by Junglee Pictures. The second part of the franchise will have a different storyline. In Badhaai Do, Rajkummar Rao will play the role of a cop, while Bhumi Pednekar, will be seen playing the role of a PT teacher. The film was previously scheduled to kickstart in June this year, but like other upcoming projects, it faced a delay due to the coronavirus pandemic. Akshat Ghildial and Suman Adhikary are the script writers for the sequal.

Harshavardhan Kulkarni says, “Family comedies are evergreen and the idea is to create wholesome entertainment that can be enjoyed with the entire family”. Bhumi Pednekar and Rajkummar Rao shared fun photos on their social media. In the picture, the duo can be seen wishing each other as they extend greetings.

Have a look at Bhumi Pednekar’s Instagram post:

https://www.instagram.com/p/CGeSO9eJuDw/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Have a look at Rajkummar Rao’s Instagram post:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by RajKummar Rao (@rajkummar_rao)

Vicky Donor actor Bhupesh Kumar Pandya diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung Cancer, Gajraj Rao, Manoj Bajpayee extend help

Amber Khan — Sun, 20 Sep 2020 06:47:18 +0000

Actor Bhupesh Kumar Pandya has been diagnosed with stage 4 Lung Cancer. He is known for his stunning role in Vicky Donor, and Hazaron Khwahishein Aisi. The actor needs Rs 25 Lakhs in the fight against Lung Cancer and for further treatment. Amidst the wave of drugs and sexual abuse allegations on Bollywood, actors like Manoj Bajpayee, Gajraj Rao and many other actors have come forward to help and support the actor and his family.

In a recent interview with TOI, Chhaya Pandya, wife of Bhupesh Pandya, said, “Unfortunately, this is true, and my husband is suffering from Stage 4 cancer. He has undergone supportive care, Palliative Chemotherapy and Palliative RT at Apollo Hospital, Ahmedabad.”

Manoj Bajpayee has shared a link to a fundraiser started by one of Bhupesh Pandya’s classmate, Kashish Agnihotri, from National School of Drama. The link has been started to help the family financially for the actor’s betterment. While sharing the link, Manoj Bajpayee’s tweet read, “Request all of you to step forward help out colleague Actor Bhupesh A Nsd graduate !!”

Take a look –

Request all of you to step forward help out colleague Actor Bhupesh A Nsd graduate !! https://t.co/oRVJQvPL5C

— manoj bajpayee (@BajpayeeManoj) September 19, 2020

According to Ketto.org, the family is in need of Rs 25 Lakhs. The website read, “The family has done all it can to collect the total amount required for the treatment but Rs.2,500,000 or $33,964.84 and more is required to pay for all the medical expenses. Bhupesh is a doting husband and a loving father of two young kids. Bhupesh is a talented actor and teacher, a national scholar from the prestigious National School of Drama, New Delhi and has worked in many movies, plays, and TV serials.”

Team BusinessUpTurn wishes for his speedy and steady recovery.

Actor Sonu Sood, Gajraj Rao and Badhaai Ho director Amit Sharma steps forward to help Surekha Sikri with financial aid

Suchismita Maity — Wed, 09 Sep 2020 09:04:01 +0000

Veteran actor Surekha Sikri who was currently addmited to hospital as she suffered second brain stroke on Tuesday. The nurse who was looking after her stated that they had to admit her in a low cost hospital due to financial crisis and urged Bollywood to help her with financial aid. Now actor Sonu Sood, Badhaai Ho actor Gajraj Rao and Director Amit Sharma came forward to provide her with financial aid.

On Wednesday, Sonu Sood replied to a tweet who had tagged him regarding Surekha Ji’s health information. The actor replied, “She’s doing fine now and in able hands. Thanks for the concern and wishes”

Have a look at his tweet:

She’s doing fine now and in able hands. Thanks for the concern and wishes 🙏 https://t.co/FwH9hUuP3P

— sonu sood (@SonuSood) September 9, 2020

Talking about the situation, Gajraj Rao told TOI, “Each Amit Sharma, the Badhai Ho director and I are in contact with Surekha Ji’s secretary Vivek and sure, we are all together with her and we will prolong all assist to her”. Amit Sharma too mentioned, “I am in Goa, however I have been in contact together with her household. I will likely to offer any form of assist that will be wanted I don’t suppose there could be any monetary obstacles in her therepy”.

The veteran actress has suffered brain stroke earlier in 2018. She was last seen in Zoya Akhtar’s Netflix movie Ghost Stories opposite Jhanvi Kapoor.

Lootcase trailer: Kunal Kemmu, Vijay Raaz and Gajraj will have you laughing over a suitcase

Ruchi Chandrawanshi — Thu, 16 Jul 2020 08:53:30 +0000

A new trailer of the upcoming movie, Lootcase released earlier today. The 3 minute trailer takes you to the world of a middle class man who accidentally stumbles across a suitcase full of money. Vijay Raaz and Gajraj Rao adds to the funny element of the story.

The trailer starts with a middle class man played by Kunal Keemu, struggling to live a stable life. His wife, played by Rasika Dugal ends up taunting him for having no money for the household. One day, he stumbles across a suitcase filled with 2000 rupees note. This feels like a dream come true. On the other hand, two rivals are looking for the missing suitcase. Gajraj Rao plays a role of a sly MLA who orders an innocent cop (Ranvir Shorey) to find the suitcase. Vijay Raaz, who plays the character of a mafia wants the bag at any cost. The trailer is filled with humorous dialogue that will make you laugh. Who gets the suitcase remains unknown.

Watch the trailer here :

The movie is set to release on OTT platform, Disney+Hotstar on July 30. Due to the pandemic situation, the film which was supposed to release in April, shifted the date as well as the platform. The movie is directed by Rajesh Krishnan and co-produced by Soda Films.

Kunal Khemu also took to twitter to announce the release of the trailer.

Sab keh rahe hai Iss bag me kuch kaala hai aap khud hi dekh lijiye! #LootcaseTrailer out now, movie out on 31st July! #lootcase https://t.co/FBFHa5A01T @raogajraj @RasikaDugal @RanvirShorey #VijayRaaz @rajoosworld @foxstarhindi @DisneyplusHSVIP #SodaFilmsIndia @saregamaglobal pic.twitter.com/4Ewc1OkC9X

— kunal kemmu (@kunalkemmu) July 16, 2020

The film was announced to release on the digital platform via virtual conference. Kunal Kemmu and Vidyut Jammwal, whose movie Khuda Hafiz is also releasing on the same platform were not invite. To express his feelings, Kunal tweeted.

Have a look :

Izzat aur pyaar maanga nahi kamaya jaata hai. Koi na de toh usse hum chhote nahi hote. Bas maidaan khelne ke liye barabar de do chhalaang hum bhi oonchi laga sakte hai 🙏

— kunal kemmu (@kunalkemmu) June 29, 2020

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