Need to sharpen your culinary skills? Tune into our special series!

The allure of a well-cooked meal can incite a series of emotions in a person. For instance, your favorite comfort can lift your mood on a bad day. While a lot of people live to eat, there are some who love to cook up a storm. If you’ve seen Hindi TV shows that showcase master chefs displaying their expertise, you may think how you too can attain such talent in the kitchen. However, mastery over multiple cuisines is barely a game of slight- it takes practice and perseverance! One of the best ways to stay motivated and get a better idea about dishes you can cook is by watching famous chefs on series. The tips provided are invaluable and can help you get ahead in day-to-day as well as gourmet cooking.

If you live in the US and miss desi food and its colorful burst of flavors, watching shows that remind you of the experience is a good place to start. In fact, watching your favorite stars compete in the kitchen while making the best dishes you’ve seen is a visual treat. The feeling of homesickness will be a little less prominent with these shows, as they bring you closer to culture and meals. One such show that left deep imprints on everybody’s hearts is Kitchen Champion, where celebrities like Karanvir Bohra, Rashmi Desai, and more compete for the ultimate crown.

Watch tensions run high as multiple celebrities that are top dogs in their respective genres aim for the cooking champion’s title. What you can expect is understanding the lives behind the screen of these stars, especially how well they cook and what they’re passionate about! If you haven’t heard before, how people perform in a stressful kitchen competition reflects the best and worst of their skills. Which one is going to be your favorite celebrity cook?

Your favorite TV Shows of the past are all available and ready to binge on Desi Play TV, the new streaming platform of Hindi TV serials in the US. When the silver screen oldies turn gold, we’ve got them all stacked for you. Tune in to Desi Play TV for free episodes of Kitchen Champion today!

Here is a glimpse into the life of Mahakaali star, Sourabh Raj Jain

One of the greatest hallmarks of an actor is not measured by the money they have earned or the number of shows they have appeared in, but the number of hearts they have touched. Art is one of the best ways that can capture and depict complex emotions to a mass, giving them a collective and individual experience. In Indian culture, there is a huge role that the film industry plays in the entertainment of households. Watching movies and serials on TV is one of the bonding events that families religiously follow, especially over meals.

One such show that captivated the hearts of millions was Mahakaali, a star-studded mythological depiction of the journey of Maa Parvati into the Goddess Kali. One of the main attractions of the show was watching the talented actor Sourabh Raj Jain play Mahadev. Seeing him play another mythological character after playing Krishna in Mahabharata was received with warmth, accredited to his skillful portrayal. Today, even in 2023, people are avid fans of the series and wish to know more about Sourabh behind the scenes. This blog will share three pieces of information that make him even more interesting as a person!

Raised by a single mom.
Did you know that he has been backed by an iron lady from his formative years? Sourabh’s mom raised him all by herself majorly, which was a challenge because she was studying, working, and building a home alone. The values of such sacrifice and dedication to parenting was never lost on Sourabh, who prioritized his education first, and lives by the motto of adoring the women in his life, namely his mom and lovely wife.

He loves not attaching genres to his work.
There was a lot of speculation regarding Sourabh sticking to the mythological genre, but he has other plans at present. Sticking to a genre and not exploring other types of roles are not his cup of tea. In fact, Sourabh is of the belief that performing as many roles as possible with different complexities and nuances is one of the best parts of his job.

He strives to evade stagnancy.
Speaking about his greatest fears in his career, it is stagnancy he shies away from. Sourabh consistently strives to break his own records by surpassing the work done previously. Approaching art and life with a growth mindset is one of his main priorities.

So, these are the three things that make Sourabh Raj Jain a strong personality apart from being a thorough professional with a grounded background. He sets a great example for Bollywood and artists, that one can be famous and still in touch with their roots while striking the perfect balance! If you love watching Sourabj Raj Jain on TV, tune in to the full episodes of Mahakaali on Desi Play TV today!

How to stream your favorite discontinued Hindi series in 2023?

Television shows have come a long way today, with the latest VFX and editing trends in tow. However, there is a certain charm to the old series we used to watch while growing up. Most of us watch them repeatedly for the nostalgia they offer and the way they make us feel. Such series are also a reminder of simpler times when all we had to do was study- before adulting came in and changed our worldview. This nostalgia hits hard especially when you’re living abroad and miss the little things about your homeland. For instance, desi culture is so deeply ingrained in our bloodline that missing the little inside jokes, attire and of course, food is a small part of the homesickness felt by NRIs.

However, one of the easiest ways to reach out for comfort is by watching the old-time popular shows we used to love- or better yet, our moms loved watching. These can bridge the gap of feeling far away from home by reminding us of the family time entertainment that the silver screen offered to us, whether it was a glamorous cooking show, a dance competition, or a dramatic series with a powerful message. However, several of these shows have been discontinued and can’t be found online except for in YouTube shorts.

While there also exist OTT platforms to stream such shows, they are either expensive to subscribe or have restricted collections. With everyone trying to save as much money as possible today, looking for free Hindi series streaming platforms is a common google search. Luckily for you, the search ends with this blog because we’re sharing how you can go about it in one click. Desi Play TV is a newly launched platform by Viacom18 where you can watch some amazing shows that still chart in the top lists after over a decade of success!

Catch up on the complete episodes of Hindi serials like Uttaran, Dev, Na aana iss des Laado, and more, all for free! What’s better than not having to watch pirated or clipped versions of amazing shows like these? The feeling of premium quality streaming across the US and internationally is unbeatable- especially when the site is completely secure unlike other third-party streaming sites. Head over to Desi Play TV today to start your trip down memory lane and invite some friends while you’re at it!

3 reasons why you can binge on a murder mystery series without guilt!

There is a huge fan base of the crime and thriller genre around the globe. In Indian cinema and the silver screen, we have seen series like Crime Patrol, CID, and Dev smash records due to the public’s love for such themes. The element of unknown and a murder mystery being solved right in front of our eyes has a cathartic effect on us all, but so does the rollercoaster that leads up to it. Here are three reasons why you can binge on murder mysteries without any guilt!

They are incredibly satisfying:
If you’ve been a long-time lover of murder mysteries, you know the joy that comes with solving a good case. While reading a novel helps you unfold the mysteries using your mind’s eye, watching it is even more rewarding. The way the characters portray their roles and depict a series of events can make viewers emotionally invested and unbelievably engrossed. Talk about nail-biting hooks and climaxes- watching the bad guy get caught is incredibly satisfying!

Keep your brain on its toes:
A habit of crime and mystery series aficionados is how we all try to guess who the criminal is until it’s time to find out. The visuals also keep our brains engaged as there are several obvious and hidden clues. These are especially better when we rewatch a favorite old series like Detective Dev where you may find clues that were previously missed out on.

Sharpen your intelligence with complex problem-solving:
The mind needs to be exercised frequently to stay active, just like our body. When you mix entertainment with a good mystery, you’re helping your mind stay sharp. With complex cases that have major twists and turns, you may learn something cool to adapt into your critical thinking skills. Crime series are effective because humans learn better with visuals.

For those living abroad, the entertainment sought from an old Hindi crime series is unparalleled. Switch up the nostalgia and tune into Dev, your favorite crime detective on Desi Play TV for the US audience!

Need a good laugh in stressful times? Here’s what comedy can help you with!

In the last couple of years, the baby boomer, millennial, and gen-Z generations have seen a lot of stress, given the circumstances we’ve been in. From a pandemic and global lockdown to socio-political tensions and impending recession, there have been endless opportunities for us all to spiral, but we’ve prevailed. However, it does not mean that life continues to be stressful for you, especially if you’re an Indian studying or working abroad. A light bite of comedy can do wonders to your mental health, which is why we at Desi Play TV have brought you nostalgic comedic series to help you feel stress-free. Here are five reasons you should watch your favorite Indian comedy series today!

Instant serotonin boost:
Living away from home in the last three years has felt intense and challenging for most students and working professionals. At such times, some familiarity can make all the difference. Give your body a break from all the stress hormones and enjoy a feel-good burst of serotonin!  A Bollywood movie or comedy series can bring you some desi humor that you miss in the US!

De-stresses in 30 minutes:
Comedy is an easy way to shake off the stress of the day, especially when it comes to Hindi humor. Moreover, episodes of Bhaag Bakool Bhaag are short and sweet, all but under 30 minutes! Make them your go-to de-stressor for a lighthearted evening.

Short escape from reality:
Sometimes it’s good to take a breather and take a break from reality for a while. Laughing your heart out while watching comedy can help your mind relax!

Improves your productivity:
One of the best aspects of having a hearty laugh with your favorite Hindi comedy series is feeling mentally brighter. Your mind, now refreshed, will be able to be more productive and upbeat.

Trip down nostalgic lanes:
For those living abroad, missing Indian culture and the nuanced languages is one of the biggest reasons for feeling homesick. Watching comedy Hindi TV shows from the good-old days can help you reminisce fondly and laugh while you’re at it!

Now that you know why laughter is the best medicine, catch free reruns of your favorite comedy show Bhaag Bakool Bhaag on Desi Play TV for the US audience!

Feeling nostalgic for old Hindi TV Shows? Here’s how you can watch them in the US for free!

The Indian diaspora is widespread globally in vast numbers, thanks to work opportunities and academic programs. Did you know that almost five lakh Indians live in the US? As incredible as the number is, living overseas and adapting to new cultures can make one homesick. For those who love all things desi, this can mean missing the drama that comes with the culture. One of the best places where one can get a splash of the Indian tadka and color is by watching your favorite Bollywood movies and Hindi TV shows.

Some of us are fond of rewatching old shows that bring us comfort and familiarity in a new and foreign environment. If you’re like us and wish to catch an old television show you were invested in from the US, there may be a roadblock to your nostalgic trip. Subscriptions to Indian shows and movies in the US are expensive, and sometimes, unavailable. Don’t let this debbie downer ruin your mood because we have a solution that will give you access to these Hindi TV shows for free.

All you need is Desi Play TV for your daily dose of Indian series nostalgia! With a collection of your favorite Hindi series spanning across multiple genres, you’re sure to be entertained no matter if you like mystery or cooking! The best part about streaming shows on Desi Play TV? These are absolutely free, which means saving hundreds of dollars annually. As a Viacom18 venture, Desi Play TV is a newly launched platform meant to share the love of the silver screen with everyone in the USA for free! You can scratch out downloading pirated content when you have a resourceful platform to watch old-gold shows like Uttaran, Na Aana Is Des Laado, Dev, and Mahakaali.

Nostalgia can be soothing when treated to hot desi food and an old series that you used to watch back home. Whether you’ll be watching alone or hosting a watch party with friends, we’ve got your weekend binge plan sorted!

5 reasons why the show Mahakaali won the hearts of millions.

It has been almost six years since the release of the show Mahakaali, and it still has a huge fan following even in 2023. Many people rave about the series’ plot and special effects, which were brilliantly done for that day and age. Considered a novelty for the silver screen, a religious story depicted from a fictional perspective ended up being the year’s favorite series for families to watch. So, what is it about the series Mahakaali that won over millions of viewers? Here are five reasons!

1. Captivating storyline: Everyone loves strong characters, but what happens when these characters happen to be the favorite deities of our culture? The journey of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva through various trials and tribulations, especially by the hands of two demons. The triumph of good over evil is highly appealing, especially when divinity is the reflection of humanity.

2. Uniqueness: This series is an intricately directed piece which maintains a crisp plot that lasts throughout the entire show. The story sticks to the narrative of Goddess Parvati’s metamorphosis and the events leading up to it with great accuracy and devotion, making it a unique series- a quality hard to find even in 2023.

3. The depiction of female strength: In the changing societal dynamics, the story is a reminder of sacred feminism and naari shakti. It also shows the depth and nuance of feminine rage, a concept that is shied away from on most televised screens. Goddess Kali’s rise and her path in Mahakaali shows us how feminine rage is just as sacred and must be embraced.

4. An amazing star cast: Let’s not forget to give credit to the amazing star-studded cast of Mahakaali. The lead and supporting actors put in an extraordinary effort to channel the characters in a way that makes the series a binge favorite in 2023.

5. Interesting costumes and designing: Apart from the production value and skills, the aesthetic of the show is highly appealing to the Indian audience, especially to those living overseas. Mahakaali offers a bridge of nostalgia about the stories we’ve heard from childhood.

Not only did Mahakaali beautifully depict the transformation of a goddess through various experiences, but also showed us that such a series can be a fan favorite close to a decade. If you want to watch all the episodes of Mahakaali for free in the USA, Desi Play TV is your prime entertainer. Head over to our site to start binging today!

Meet the stars: 5 facts you didn’t know about Meghna Malik

Nowadays, celebrities also make it a point to interact with their audience using Instagram and other apps, which gives us a personal perspective into their lives. Some stars are more private than others, though!

Meghna Malik, who shot to fame with her stint in Na Aana Is Des Laado as Ammaji, is a silver-screen superstar that fans wish to know more about. If you loved her playing a role with such complexity and still love to watch her shine, we’ve got an exclusive scoop for you! Here are five interesting facts our star expert has discovered about Meghna Malik, that make her an amazing person and artist!

Meghna’s take on her roles
Meghna seeks challenging roles and loves to portray strong, non-linear roles. In addition to a challenging role, a powerful script with a message completes the project she is looking for.

On her professional skills
Did you know Meghna is a professionally trained actress? She graduated from the National School of Drama in 1997.

Awards and accolades

  1. Indian Telly Award for Best Actress in a Negative Role 2009 · Na Aana Is Des Laado
  2. Indian Telly Jury Award for Best Actress in a Negative Role 2010 · Na Aana Is Des Laado
  3. ITA Award for Best Actress in a Negative Role 2010 · Na Aana Is Des Laado
  4. ITA Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role 2016 · Dahleez

Her favorite places to chill 
Meghna loves a laidback meal at the rooftop restaurants at Hauz Khas Village. The interesting character and designer stores appeal to her aesthetic, but what she values the most is the open space that comes with these opulent spaces.

Is Meghna Malik single?
Meghna is happily married to her long-term beau, Riju Bajaj. They tied the knot in 2000 and have been together ever since.

Celebrities always tend to have an aura of mystery shrouding them, leaving us to wonder what they are like away from the cameras. However, social media has made them more accessible to us than ever before! We hope you enjoyed knowing the brilliant Meghna Malik a little more. Desi Play TV is your entertainment central for mint series and your favorite Hindi television stars; stay tuned for more such interesting editorials and more!

Throughout Dev, I wasn’t running behind TRP but punctuality: Ashish Chaudhary

Ashish Chaudhary, a well-known Indian television actor who plays ‘Dev’ in the popular Hindi TV shows Dev on Desi Play TV,  shared his experiences of working in the entertainment industry. He stated that throughout his career as a television actor, he never focused on TRP (television rating point) numbers but instead prioritized punctuality.

Ashish Chaudhary believes that TRP numbers are not the only measure of success for a television show. He stated that as an actor, it is important to focus on delivering a good performance and being punctual on set. “Punctuality is essential for the smooth functioning of television production, and it shows a level of respect and professionalism towards the other members of the crew.” He added.

Chaudhary also spoke about the importance of having a positive attitude on set. He stated that a positive attitude can help to create a good working environment and can lead to better performances by the actors. He believes that having a positive attitude is essential for the overall success of a television show.

The actor also highlighted the importance of hard work and dedication in the entertainment industry. “Success in the industry does not come easy and requires a lot of hard work and dedication. One needs to be passionate about their work and be willing to put in the effort to achieve success.” shared Ashish.

Ashish Chaudhary’s words of wisdom serve as a reminder that success in the entertainment industry is not just about TRP numbers, but also about other important factors such as punctuality, a positive attitude, and hard work.

I’m an average cook so it was difficult to impress the judges of Kitchen Champion: Deepika Singh

Deepika Singh who’s one of the participants in the show Kitchen Champion doesn’t consider herself to be an amazing cook. She believes that she can cook survival food and therefore it was extremely challenging for her to impress the judges of Kitchen Champion. “It’s not easy to impress kids. Especially when kids are the ones who are judging a show. They are also fussy eaters so for me who is an average cook, it was extremely difficult to prepare interesting dishes and impress them.”

Deepika will participate in the show along with her sister and feels that her sister cooks way better than her. “Honestly, because of my hectic shoot schedules, I don’t get a chance to spend time in the kitchen. My sister is a better cook than me and that’s why she keeps teasing me most of the time. Now that both of us will enter the show Kitchen Champion, I will try my best to impress the judges with her support!”

Sharing her experiences of working with kids, Deepika said, “Those kids are extremely naughty. They don’t sit in one place and the entire cast and crew keep running behind them! However, the show will give me an opportunity to learn new, healthy recipes. I will try my best to impress these judges with at least one good dish!”

On asking, how often she steps into the Kitchen to cook, Singh shared,” Once in blue moon only! I also remember one incident. When I was in class 10th, I prepared Sooji ka Halwa (pudding) because mom wasn’t keeping well, and we had guests at our place. But it didn’t turn out as I was expecting it to be, and the entire dessert was a mess. Since then, I decided not to increase the workload of others by stepping into the kitchen!”

Watch all episodes of Kitchen Champion absolutely free only on Desi Play TV, now available on Sling & Plex. 

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