How does it feel to be the showstopper for Whistling Woods International’s student showcase at Fashion Week 2025?

It’s extremely exciting to be chosen as the showstopper for these brilliant young minds feels like being part of something much bigger than myself. There’s such raw energy and individuality in their work that walking for them feels like celebrating the future of Indian fashion. As someone who has always believed in supporting emerging talent, this opportunity allows me to be a bridge between the creative industries I’m passionate about. The students’ enthusiasm is infectious, and their dedication reminds me of my own journey in cinema. To be wearing their creations and representing their vision on such a prestigious platform is truly an honor. This opportunity is about amplifying their voices and giving them the recognition, they deserve.

What was your first reaction when you were approached to represent the next generation of designers through this special showcase?

My immediate reaction was absolute excitement! I’ve always been drawn to authentic, meaningful collaborations, and this felt perfect. When I learned about WWI’s approach to fashion education and how they integrate real industry experience into academics, I knew this was exactly the kind of initiative I wanted to support. I’ve seen firsthand how difficult it can be for young creative minds to get their work noticed, so being able to lend my platform to these students felt like the right thing to do. I was also curious about their creative process and themes—I wanted to understand what this generation of designers is thinking about, what inspires them, and how they’re interpreting contemporary fashion. It felt like an opportunity to learn as much as to contribute.

What truly captivated me was when I learned about the themes these students are exploring. The students from Semester 3 and Semester 5 have showcased their talent—each working on deeply meaningful concepts. Semester 3 students are focusing on “Conceptual Fashion Design Rooted in Storytelling and Symbolism,” which resonates so deeply with my work as an actor where every character is a story waiting to be told through visual elements. Then Semester 5 is exploring “Identity, Transformation, and Cultural Expression Through Experimental Fashion,” which is incredibly powerful and relevant in today’s world. These aren’t just fashion themes—they’re philosophical explorations of who we are and how we express ourselves. The fact that students are being encouraged to think this deeply about fashion, to see it as a medium for cultural dialogue and personal transformation rather than just aesthetic appeal, is extraordinary. I knew immediately that this wasn’t going to be a typical fashion show—this was going to be an artistic statement, and I felt privileged to be the one representing their vision on that runway.

You’ve seen the collections created by the students, what impressed you most about their creativity and the themes they have worked on?

They fearless approach to storytelling through fashion. These students aren’t just designing clothes—they’re creating narratives, much like how we create characters in cinema but what impressed me the most is definitely my outfit. I have been told that the idea for my dress stemmed from the script of the fashion film that was executed by the students of semester 5 as part of the media fashion media 2. The very contemporary art form of ariels, ballet, fitness, core strength and artistry is depicted in the multiple layers of tulle that hangs from an architectural crumb catcher corset, and this ethereal dress is embellished by handmade flowers with each layer epitomizing the art that sperd the concept for the film- Room of remembering.

Other than that, all their collections reflect such cutting-edge designs. The technical execution combined with conceptual depth reminds me of independent cinema, there’s substance behind the style. They’re not trying to copy trends; they’re creating something uniquely Indian yet universally appealing. Their use of unconventional materials and innovative silhouettes shows they’re thinking like true artists, not just designers

WWI gives its students an opportunity to present their work alongside established names. How important do you think such real-world exposure is for young designers while they are still studying?

This exposure is absolutely crucial- it’s the difference between theoretical knowledge and practical wisdom. In my acting career, I learned more from being on actual sets than I ever did in workshops. Similarly, these students are experiencing the real pressures, timelines, and standards of the fashion industry while still having the safety net of academic support. They’re building professional relationships, understanding market dynamics, and getting feedback from industry veterans all while developing their own creative voice. This early exposure builds confidence that would otherwise take years to develop. More importantly, it demystifies the industry for them—they’re not dreaming about fashion careers anymore, they’re actively building them. It also helps them understand that creativity and commercial viability aren’t mutually exclusive, which is a lesson every artist needs to learn.

Fashion and cinema often go hand in hand. How do you think collaborations like these helps bring both industries closer?

The synergy is beautiful and natural. Both fashion and cinema are about storytelling, character development, and visual communication. Through these student designers, I see how fashion can enhance narrative, just as costume design does in films. These collaborations create a shared vocabulary between both industries. These partnerships also open up career pathways for students who might want to work in costume design for films or for actors who might want to explore fashion entrepreneurship. Such collaborations also help both industries stay relevant and innovative by constantly cross-pollinating ideas and aesthetics.

What message would you like to share with these aspiring designers and creators as they take their first steps into the professional world?

Stay authentic to your voice while remaining open to growth and change. The fashion industry, like cinema, can be challenging, but your unique perspective is your greatest strength. Don’t let commercial pressures dilute your creativity but also don’t ignore market realities. Learn to tell your story through your designs, because fashion that has a narrative always resonates more deeply with people. Collaborate generously- some of my best work has come from partnerships where creative minds came together. Be patient with your journey; overnight success is rarely sustainable. Build relationships, mentor others when you can, and never stop learning from every experience, whether it’s a success or a setback. Most importantly, remember that fashion is ultimately about making people feel something- confidence, joy, empowerment. If your designs can do that, you’re not just creating clothes you’re creating moments of transformation, and that’s incredibly powerful.

By Keerti Kadam

The post Rajshri Deshpande reflected on her experience of representing the next generation of designers! first appeared on Latest News, Breaking News, National News, World News, India News, Bollywood News, Business News, Politics News, Sports News, Entertainment News - CineBuster.

The trailer of Rangeen offers a hilarious glimpse into the chaos that unfolds in Adarsh’s seemingly simple life. What begins as the shocking discovery of his wife Naina’s betrayal quickly spirals into a wildly unpredictable journey. In a bold exploration of morality, identity, and tangled emotions, Rangeen follows Adarsh – a mild-mannered, middle-aged man – as he embarks on a hilarious yet heart-wrenching quest for revenge. Stylish yet chaotic, funny yet deeply human, the series promises a delicious blend of humour and relationship drama, with punchy dialogues, quirky characters, and a storyline that’s anything but ordinary.

Amardeep Galsin, co-creator and co-writer, added, “Rangeen is a sensitive yet humorous story that explores what intimacy, power, and emotional need look like when you’re not in a rom-com. We wanted to build a world that worked as a satire – one that walks the tightrope between wit, irony and emotional honesty. This wasn’t an easy story to tell, but working with producers Kabir Khan and Rajan Kapoor, who showed unwavering faith in our vision, directors Kopal Naithani and Pranjal Dua, and phenomenal artists including Vineet, Rajshri, Taaruk and Sheeba ji, helped bring Rangeen alive with all its awkwardness, depth and rawness intact.”

Amir Rizvi, co-creator and co-writer of the series, talking about inspiration behind Rangeen, shared, “Rangeen came from a news article that just stuck with us, not so much for what it said, but for what it stirred. It opened a door into a world few talk about, and that became the starting point. What began as something quirky quickly unfolded into a story that’s layered, emotional, and surprisingly relatable. Rangeen is about the lives we lead beneath the surface – identities we guard and the choices we justify. Collaborating with Prime Video to bring this to audiences across India and 240 countries has been an incredible experience. We’ve tried to tell a bold story with humour, care, and empathy.”

Talking about what made him say yes to playing Adarsh, the lead character in Rangeen, Viineet Kumar Siingh shared, “Adarsh is a character that felt instantly human to me—flawed, conflicted, yet deeply sincere. What excited me most about Rangeen was the chance to portray someone navigating a storm of betrayal and self-doubt, not with melodrama, but with restraint, humour, and quiet intensity. There’s a raw honesty in the way the story unfolds, and that’s what makes it both entertaining and emotionally resonant. Collaborating with Prime Video and Kabir Khan has been an immensely fulfilling experience—they’ve created a space where unique, grounded stories like Rangeen can flourish. Also, the writers Amir Rizvi and Amardeep Galsin wrote it very well and they are the show runners too. I can’t wait for audiences across India and the world to meet Adarsh and take this journey with him, when the series premieres on July 25.”

Rajshri Deshpande, who plays the character of Naina, the female lead in the series, shared, “Rangeen isn’t just a twisted relationship drama, it’s a mirror to the complexities we carry in our hearts and minds. What drew me to Naina was her unapologetic hunger – for desire, for meaning, for something beyond the boxes she’s been put into. What I love is that Rangeen doesn’t hand out easy answers. It doesn’t reduce women to labels – it lets them be messy, searching, and painfully human. Amir and Amardeep brought a fearless and deeply sensitive lens to this world. Our conversations gave me the space to be Naina, not just play her. Working with Prime Video, and having Kabir Khan backing this, made the ride even more meaningful. When Rangeen drops this July, I hope people don’t just watch it – I hope they feel seen.”

Link – prime video IN on Instagram: “Aaj ki taaza khabar- betrayal, revenge and a rangeen twist  #RangeenOnPrime, New Series, July 25 @Pranjal.Dua @Kopious1 @kabirkhankk #AmirRizvi @bluemagic.films”

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By Keerti Kadam

The post Prime Video Drops the Trailer for it’s Comedy-Drama Series ‘Rangeen’! first appeared on Latest News, Breaking News, National News, World News, India News, Bollywood News, Business News, Politics News, Sports News, Entertainment News - CineBuster.

Speaking more about her aim towards a sustained change Rajshri says, ”NGOs are not my favorite. They frequently carry out tasks that the government should perform. NGOs ought to be restricted to serving as salt on a plate, informing people about the condition on the ground. Nonetheless, individuals frequently have to perform government jobs against their will. It is not enough to raise money and stop there, I’ve learned from my mother if I desire sustained change.”

Starting by clearing a dried canal in 2016 with the help of 50 farmers for 15 days which resulted the dried Bemble river overflow in monsoons, to helping Yeomans in Aurangabad to fight drought, Rajshri has actively participated in making a change. She was also successful in building 200 toilets, building water supplies for villagers, and opening schools for women that enabled them to become teachers Rajshri covers every empty space to make a change. The Nabhangan foundation founded by Rajshri is constantly working towards a better tomorrow for every individual in Maharashtra.

Every initiative is motivated by Deshpande’s personal experience and challenges she has faced and overcome. The actress also aims to work with Shah Rukh Khan’s Meer foundation in the future who lent a hand to her organisation.

The post Rajshri Deshpande is beyond an actress in front of the camera who’s all about glamour and attention! first appeared on Latest News, Breaking News, National News, World News, India News, Bollywood News, Business News, Politics News, Sports News, Entertainment News - CineBuster.

Rajshri has prepped a day in & day out for her character. This was one of the most challenging characters as an artist but she performed it effortlessly on-screen. Viewers across the globe have showered her with immense love & appreciation for her role. She’s truly a bankable actor in today’s times.

The series is based on a true story of how parents who lose their children & fight for their justice for over two decades. This story hits all the right notes.

The actress also has multiple projects lined up for 2023.

The post Global pat on the back for Rajshri Deshpande for her moving performance and physical transformation in ‘Trial By Fire’! first appeared on Latest News, Breaking News, National News, World News, India News, Bollywood News, Business News, Politics News, Sports News, Entertainment News - CineBuster.