EXCLUSIVE: “Agra Affair is about fragility and strength of relationships,” says actor Aakash Dahiya; recalls auditioning for his debut film Dev D with fever, reveals plans for exploring writing

Arts & Culture, Film & TV

In the web show Agra Affair, Aakash Dahiya plays a pivotal role in a story set against the backdrop of Agra. Speaking about the series in an exclusive chat with Bollywood Hungama, Aakash shared, “Agra Affair is a story of a small town. When we think of Agra, the Taj Mahal and love come to mind. This show tells the story of relationships. It’s about how relationships in our lives are built, broken, and rebuilt. Love is not limited to romantic partners but extends to parents, siblings, and others.”EXCLUSIVE: “Agra Affair is about fragility and strength of relationships,” says actor Aakash Dahiya; recalls auditioning for his debut film Dev D with fever, reveals plans for exploring writing“I’m Pursuing Writing with Satirical Stories”: Aakash Dahiya on His New Creative PathApart from acting, Aakash is passionate about writing and is currently working on several projects. “There are some subjects I’m working on, rooted in everyday life stories that have been on my mind for a long time. I want to bring them to life. Yes, I’m pursuing writing and am working on satire-based content,” he explained.“Casting Was My Schooling as an Actor”: Aakash Dahiya on His Early Bollywood DaysAakash began his casting journey in 2008, working with Mukesh Chhabra on films like Gangs of Wasseypur, Highway, Rockstar, and PK. Reflecting on those days, he said, “It was a wonderful learning experience. These films were like a school for me, both as an actor and creatively. The journey has been truly enriching and enjoyable.”Feedback From Industry PeersHaving collaborated with several renowned industry figures, Aakash feels fortunate to receive their feedback and encouragement. “I have received a lot of love from my co-actors and colleagues. They often call or message me whenever I’m involved in a new project, and we have conversations that reignite our connection. I feel truly blessed for this support,” he shared.Aakash Dahiya Recalls Auditioning For Dev DAs Dev D recently completed its 15th anniversary, Aakash reminisced about his debut project. “Dev D marked my entry into the industry. I still remember going for the audition with a fever. I was a big fan of Anurag Kashyap after watching Black Friday. Meeting Vasan Bala during the casting process was memorable. Two days later, I got a call saying I’d been selected. Initially, I thought it might be a prank, but it turned out to be real. Dev D will always hold a special place in my heart,” he said.Aakash Dahiya Talks About Portraying Martyr Bhagat Singh and Future ProjectsAakash has an array of projects lined up. “One of my upcoming web series is titled Chhote Yadav, which will be released next month. I also played martyr Bhagat Singh in a short film currently making rounds at festivals, which we plan to release in March. Additionally, I’m part of a significant project that starts shooting next month, though I can’t reveal the details yet. Another web series, Dhanbad, is expected to release by March or April,” he revealed.Also Read: Anurag Kashyap speaks on rift with Dev D star Abhay Deol: “If I speak the truth, he won’t be able to show his face”.also-read{border-radius:10px;background:#f2f2f2;padding:10px 15px 0}.also-read .bx-wrapper{max-width:100% !important}.also-read h2{font-size:20px;margin-bottom:5px}.also-read ul{display:flex;-ms-flex-wrap:wrap;flex-wrap:wrap;position:relative;box-sizing:border-box}.also-read li{position:relative;flex:0 0 33.333333%;max-width:33.333333%;padding:0 5px}.also-read .imgsnb .imaginary img{border-radius:8px}.also-read h5{margin-top:10px}.also-read h5 a{color:#000 !important;font-weight:400;line-height:15px}#also-read .bx-controls-direction{display:none}@media only screen and (max-width:400px){.also-read li{width:31.10% !important}}.addformobile{display:none}@media only screen and (max-width:767px){.addformobile{display:block}}BOLLYWOOD NEWS – LIVE UPDATESCatch us for latest Bollywood News, New Bollywood Movies update, Box office collection, New Movies Release , Bollywood News Hindi, Entertainment News, Bollywood Live News Today & Upcoming Movies 2025 and stay updated with latest hindi movies only on Bollywood Hungama.

Model Caprice Bourret films Christmas movie in Perthshire

Arts & Culture, Film & TV

American model and actress Caprice Bourret has been filming a new Christmas movie in Perthshire.
The former supermodel, who has appeared on the covers of Vogue, GQ and Cosmopolitan magazines, was in Aberfeldy to shoot The Scottish Christmas Secret.
Film crews took over The Watermill bookshop and cafe on Tuesday. It was transformed into a festive movie set.
Co-owners John Argo and Keith Moncrieff were on hand throughout the day to show the filmmakers around.
Aberfeldy bookshop owner thought filming idea was ‘a wind-up’ after supermodel call
John says he thought it was “a wind-up” when Caprice called the bookshop to ask if they were interested in becoming a movie location.
He told The Courier: “Between Christmas and new year we were having a catch-up and one of the staff came through with the phone saying someone was asking about using the shop as a filming location.
“I initially thought, ‘yeah, yeah, whatever’ but took the call.
“This American girl was on the phone and it was Caprice – she said she used to be a model and now makes Christmas movies and she was looking for a bookshop.
“I wasn’t sure if it was a wind-up or not.
“She explained she has morphed from a model to a reality star to an entrepreneur.
“She has done a few movies and she’s doing this one in Scotland which is cool.

Caprice Bourret will star in the film. Image: John Argo/The Watermill

Filming for The Scottish Christmas Secret took place in Aberfeldy. Image: John Argo/The Watermill

“She sent over the synopsis and that’s when I knew it wasn’t a wind-up.
“They were doing a short shoot in Scotland and the bookshop is quite an interesting building.
“We weren’t sworn to secrecy or anything but closed the shop to keep people away for them.
“We were there all day helping and showed them around the whole building.
“We thought about opening the cafe but had to keep it quiet enough for filming.
“The cafe became their staff room and then they went to do various shots.”
Caprice Bourret to star in Christmas film shot in Perthshire
John says filming crews were based in Aviemore throughout the shoot and had been looking for a bookshop nearby.
Bourret will star in the film alongside actor Alex Trumble who has previously appeared in a number of Christmas films.

She posted on her Instagram as filming got underway this week: “And so it begins up in Scotland shooting another Christmas movie having a blast.
“Can’t wait for everyone to see it and am so grateful for my incredible cast and crew.”
John said the cast and crew were “really lovely” throughout the shoot, which was completed on Tuesday.

Flm crews at The Watermill bookshop. Image: John Argo/The Watermill

Christmas decorations were set up at the bookshop. Image: John Argo/The Watermill

He said: “We had to keep our Christmas decorations up and they brought a bunch more.
“They were all really lovely – there were no movie egos or anything like that.
“The lead actor – Alex Trumble – was over from LA and stars in a lot of these things.
“Caprice is the female lead.
“I knew who she was when she called but she was quite cool, she wasn’t like: ‘Do you know who I am?’
“She was talking and I said: ‘You’re that famous Caprice aren’t you?’

Caprice during filming. Image: John Argo/The Watermill

Caprice chose the Aberfeldy bookshop as a filming location. Image: John Argo/The Watermill

Film crews descended on the shop. Image: John Argo/The Watermill

“She was really nice and really accommodating.
“They just moved bits and pieces around but didn’t change much.
“We are used to seeing the building every day but when you take a step back there is a bit of an eclectic Harry Potter-esque feel about it.”
Bourret, 53, was once one of the most photographed women in the world, appearing on more than 300 magazine covers across the world.
She is originally from southern California but moved to London in 1996.
In 2024 she starred in A European Christmas as a movie director who finds love in Serbia.

Bourret also appeared in 2019’s Christmas in the Highlands, which was largely filmed at Glamis Castle.
She was previously a judge on Britain’s Next Top Model and took part in the third season of Celebrity Big Brother.
John and Keith took over The Watermill in May 2024 when it changed hands after 19 years under its former owners.

Crete Invites Travelers to Discover ‘Top Things to Do’ Across All Seasons

Travel

.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_link_svg_icon svg{height:18px;width:auto}.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_icon{width:36px !important;height:36px !important}.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_icon:before{font-size:18px !important;top:9px !important;left:9px !important}.essb_links.essb_size_m li a .essb_network_name{font-size:13px !important;font-weight:400 !important;line-height:12px !important}Photo source: Crete RegionWith a new promotional video, the Region of Crete aspires to highlight Crete’s year-round appeal, inviting travelers to discover the island’s unique experiences.
Entitled “Crete, Sense The Authentic- Top Things Τo Do”, the video is part of the region’s ongoing tourism campaign “Crete, Sense the Authentic”, which was launched in 2020 to highlight the unique elements that make the island a one-of-a-kind destination.
The video beautifully captures Crete’s identity, offering a glimpse into Cretan wedding traditions, Orthodox monasteries, outdoor adventures, picturesque landscapes, and its rich gastronomy.
Photo source: Crete Region
The “Top Things to Do” in Crete span all seasons: experiencing the harvest and the traditional “Kazanemata”, where locals craft raki, a famous Cretan alcoholic drink, in large cauldrons, in autumn; enjoying outdoor activities like skiing and the vibrant Cretan carnival in winter; exploring the island’s rich Eastern traditions in spring; and swimming in crystal-clear waters while soaking up the renowned warmth and hospitality of the Cretan people in summer.
Crete Governor Stavros Arnaoutakis highlighted that millions of visitors choose Crete for their holidays each year, reaffirming its appeal as a year-round destination.
“Whatever their plans and whichever season they visit, our island is full of surprises for everyone,” Arnaoutakis said.
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Greece’s Candidate for UN Tourism Chief Aligns with EU on Sustainability Goals

Travel

.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_link_svg_icon svg{height:18px;width:auto}.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_icon{width:36px !important;height:36px !important}.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_icon:before{font-size:18px !important;top:9px !important;left:9px !important}.essb_links.essb_size_m li a .essb_network_name{font-size:13px !important;font-weight:400 !important;line-height:12px !important}Harry Theoharis, Greece’s candidate for the position of Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), has joined forces with European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, to promote European best practices in sustainable tourism on a global scale.
Theoharis, a former Greek Minister of Tourism (from June 2019 until September 2021), has pledged to strengthen UN Tourism’s impact by fostering collaboration and advancing sustainable growth worldwide.
During a pivotal meeting in Brussels, he and Commissioner Tzitzikostas discussed strategies for positioning tourism as a catalyst for economic growth, environmental responsibility, and social inclusion.
Enhancing global collaboration
European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, with Greece’s candidate for the position of Secretary-General of UN Tourism, Harry Theoharis.
The meeting highlighted the critical role of Europe’s leadership in shaping global tourism policies, particularly in sustainability and innovation.
Both leaders highlighted the potential for collaboration between the European Commission and UN Tourism to address pressing challenges, including climate change and equitable development.
Commissioner Tzitzikostas expressed support for Theoharis’ candidacy, praising his commitment to advancing shared goals of sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation.
Theoharis’ vision for UN Tourism
Theoharis outlined his vision to unify the global tourism sector by leveraging Europe’s expertise and investments, ensuring that smaller, less developed destinations can benefit from innovative practices.
“As Secretary-General, I will work to amplify Europe’s contributions to sustainable tourism, enabling a global industry that empowers professionals and leaves a meaningful impact on travelers worldwide,” Theoharis said.
He expressed gratitude for Commissioner Tzitzikostas’ support, emphasizing their shared vision of a more inclusive and sustainable future for global tourism.
A path toward sustainable progress
This meeting underscores UN Tourism’s potential as a unifying platform for addressing global tourism challenges. By fostering partnerships and promoting innovation, the organization can drive progress and deliver tangible benefits for member states and travelers alike.
As the Secretary-General election approaches, Theoharis’ focus on collaboration and sustainability positions him as a candidate committed to harnessing tourism’s transformative power for the benefit of all.
The appointment of the new Secretary-General of UN Tourism will take place during the 26th session of the organization’s General Assembly, scheduled for November 7-11, 2025, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The newly elected Secretary-General will begin their term on January 1, 2026.

Greece’s Candidate for UN Tourism Chief Aligns with EU on Sustainability Goals

Travel

.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_link_svg_icon svg{height:18px;width:auto}.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_icon{width:36px !important;height:36px !important}.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_icon:before{font-size:18px !important;top:9px !important;left:9px !important}.essb_links.essb_size_m li a .essb_network_name{font-size:13px !important;font-weight:400 !important;line-height:12px !important}Harry Theoharis, Greece’s candidate for the position of Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), has joined forces with European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, to promote European best practices in sustainable tourism on a global scale.
Theoharis, a former Greek Minister of Tourism (from June 2019 until September 2021), has pledged to strengthen UN Tourism’s impact by fostering collaboration and advancing sustainable growth worldwide.
During a pivotal meeting in Brussels, he and Commissioner Tzitzikostas discussed strategies for positioning tourism as a catalyst for economic growth, environmental responsibility, and social inclusion.
Enhancing global collaboration
European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, with Greece’s candidate for the position of Secretary-General of UN Tourism, Harry Theoharis.
The meeting highlighted the critical role of Europe’s leadership in shaping global tourism policies, particularly in sustainability and innovation.
Both leaders highlighted the potential for collaboration between the European Commission and UN Tourism to address pressing challenges, including climate change and equitable development.
Commissioner Tzitzikostas expressed support for Theoharis’ candidacy, praising his commitment to advancing shared goals of sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation.
Theoharis’ vision for UN Tourism
Theoharis outlined his vision to unify the global tourism sector by leveraging Europe’s expertise and investments, ensuring that smaller, less developed destinations can benefit from innovative practices.
“As Secretary-General, I will work to amplify Europe’s contributions to sustainable tourism, enabling a global industry that empowers professionals and leaves a meaningful impact on travelers worldwide,” Theoharis said.
He expressed gratitude for Commissioner Tzitzikostas’ support, emphasizing their shared vision of a more inclusive and sustainable future for global tourism.
A path toward sustainable progress
This meeting underscores UN Tourism’s potential as a unifying platform for addressing global tourism challenges. By fostering partnerships and promoting innovation, the organization can drive progress and deliver tangible benefits for member states and travelers alike.
As the Secretary-General election approaches, Theoharis’ focus on collaboration and sustainability positions him as a candidate committed to harnessing tourism’s transformative power for the benefit of all.
The appointment of the new Secretary-General of UN Tourism will take place during the 26th session of the organization’s General Assembly, scheduled for November 7-11, 2025, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The newly elected Secretary-General will begin their term on January 1, 2026.

Reactions to Draft Greek Tourism Bill Regulating Short-term Rentals

Travel

.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_link_svg_icon svg{height:18px;width:auto}.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_icon{width:36px !important;height:36px !important}.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_icon:before{font-size:18px !important;top:9px !important;left:9px !important}.essb_links.essb_size_m li a .essb_network_name{font-size:13px !important;font-weight:400 !important;line-height:12px !important}A new Greek tourism bill regulating short-term rentals and other key tourism measures has received positive feedback from most sector representatives.
The bill, titled “Establishment of Specifications for Short-Term Rental Properties, Environmental Classification of Accommodations, Simplification of Tourism Business Establishment Procedures, and Additional Provisions for Strengthening Tourism Infrastructure”, was open for public comment from December 6 to December 19.
The Greek Parliament is set to vote on the bill on Thursday, January 16, after it was initially approved by the parliamentary committee for Production and Commerce.
According to a report by the Athens News Agency, members of the governing New Democracy party supported the draft, while opposition parties such as PASOK, SYRIZA, Elliniki Lysi, Niki, Plefsi Eleftherias, and Spartiates said they would share their opinions during the plenary session. The Communist Party and New Left party members have rejected the draft.
Industry reactions to the bill
Photo source: Airbnb
Alexandros Vasilikos, president of the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels (HCH), praised the initiative, calling it “historical” for setting new short-term rental standards. While he noted that the HCH has never opposed short-term rentals, he emphasized the importance of regulation, as seen in other Western countries.
Alexandros Thanos, executive director of the Greek Tourism Confederation (SETE), expressed support for the bill, noting that it moved in the “right direction”. However, he proposed that short-term rental properties be clearly distinguished from legally licensed tourist accommodations. He also suggested that local authorities should regulate the number of short-term rental properties per municipality.
Yannis Hatzis, president of the Hellenic Hoteliers Federation (HHF), supported the bill’s direction, stating that if short-term rentals are considered part of the official tourism sector, they should be subject to stricter regulations. If they remain part of the sharing economy, limitations on time and quantity are necessary.
Panagiotis Tokouzis, president of the Greek Confederation of Tourist Accommodation Enterprises (SETKE), said he welcomed any regulation on short-term rentals.
Opposition to the bill
Photo source: Airbnb
Stratos Paradias, president of the Hellenic Property Federation (POMIDA), criticized the regulation, calling it “scandalous”. He argued that it would force short-term rental properties within city planning frameworks to be downgraded or demolished.
Konstantinos Kiamos, vice president of the Short Term Accommodation Managers Association (STAMA Greece), agreed with eliminating storage areas and basements used as short-term rentals but noted that these issues are limited in scope. He also warned that the bill could disrupt existing investments in renovated buildings that have been converted into rental properties.

Reactions to Draft Greek Tourism Bill Regulating Short-term Rentals

Travel

.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_link_svg_icon svg{height:18px;width:auto}.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_icon{width:36px !important;height:36px !important}.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_icon:before{font-size:18px !important;top:9px !important;left:9px !important}.essb_links.essb_size_m li a .essb_network_name{font-size:13px !important;font-weight:400 !important;line-height:12px !important}A new Greek tourism bill regulating short-term rentals and other key tourism measures has received positive feedback from most sector representatives.
The bill, titled “Establishment of Specifications for Short-Term Rental Properties, Environmental Classification of Accommodations, Simplification of Tourism Business Establishment Procedures, and Additional Provisions for Strengthening Tourism Infrastructure”, was open for public comment from December 6 to December 19.
The Greek Parliament is set to vote on the bill on Thursday, January 16, after it was initially approved by the parliamentary committee for Production and Commerce.
According to a report by the Athens News Agency, members of the governing New Democracy party supported the draft, while opposition parties such as PASOK, SYRIZA, Elliniki Lysi, Niki, Plefsi Eleftherias, and Spartiates said they would share their opinions during the plenary session. The Communist Party and New Left party members have rejected the draft.
Industry reactions to the bill
Photo source: Airbnb
Alexandros Vasilikos, president of the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels (HCH), praised the initiative, calling it “historical” for setting new short-term rental standards. While he noted that the HCH has never opposed short-term rentals, he emphasized the importance of regulation, as seen in other Western countries.
Alexandros Thanos, executive director of the Greek Tourism Confederation (SETE), expressed support for the bill, noting that it moved in the “right direction”. However, he proposed that short-term rental properties be clearly distinguished from legally licensed tourist accommodations. He also suggested that local authorities should regulate the number of short-term rental properties per municipality.
Yannis Hatzis, president of the Hellenic Hoteliers Federation (HHF), supported the bill’s direction, stating that if short-term rentals are considered part of the official tourism sector, they should be subject to stricter regulations. If they remain part of the sharing economy, limitations on time and quantity are necessary.
Panagiotis Tokouzis, president of the Greek Confederation of Tourist Accommodation Enterprises (SETKE), said he welcomed any regulation on short-term rentals.
Opposition to the bill
Photo source: Airbnb
Stratos Paradias, president of the Hellenic Property Federation (POMIDA), criticized the regulation, calling it “scandalous”. He argued that it would force short-term rental properties within city planning frameworks to be downgraded or demolished.
Konstantinos Kiamos, vice president of the Short Term Accommodation Managers Association (STAMA Greece), agreed with eliminating storage areas and basements used as short-term rentals but noted that these issues are limited in scope. He also warned that the bill could disrupt existing investments in renovated buildings that have been converted into rental properties.

France’s book sales fall in 2024 as year ends on ‘bleak’ note

Arts & Culture, Books

French publishers’ book sales fell an estimated 3% after inflation in 2024, accelerating a trend that began in 2023, according to Vincent Montagne, president of the French Publishers Association (Syndicat National de l’Edition, SNE) and chair and CEO of Media Participations.
Speaking at the SNE’s traditional New Year reception on 9th January, he said 2024 had been “a difficult year”, even though foreign rights sales grew and there were exceptions to the gloom, notably in literature.
Figures released last Friday by market research firm NielsenIQ x GfK showed that 23 million French people, out of a population of more than 68 million, bought at least one book last year. Secondhand copies accounted for a stable 18% of the total and e-books under 5%. The data comes from a panel of more than 8,500 points of sale, including 1,100 independent booksellers.
Montagne regretted that neither a law to enshrine a two-year-old agreement with authors societies, nor a project to remunerate secondhand books have “progressed as expected”. This is despite culture minister Rachida Dati keeping her job in the third consecutive government since January 2024. Erratic education policy in the past few years has been bad for “textbook publishing and learning to read”, he added.
On the positive side, the new booktracker Filéas involving all players in the book industry has been launched, and measures to reduce the sector’s carbon footprint are underway, he added. Montagne dismissed the notion that artificial intelligence pits culture against innovation.
Ahead in the first half of 2025 is the creation of a mediation commission to resolve disputes between publishers and authors, and the return of the annual Festival du Livre to the Grand Palais near the Champs Elysées on 11th to 13th April. Morocco will be the guest of honour, and 450 publishers will exhibit, 100 more than in the 2024 event, he said.
Continues…