JioHotstar enters Middle East and North Africa through exclusive partnership with STARZPLAY

/ October 07, 2026

JioHotstar has expanded its international presence with its entry into the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The move follows its launch in the UK, Canada and Singapore, adding another key market with a large South Asian audience to the platform’s growing global footprint. Through an exclusive partnership with STARZPLAY, JioHotstar will be available as a dedicated streaming destination on the STARZPLAY app and website.

The partnership combines JioHotstar’s content library with STARZPLAY’s regional reach and understanding of audiences in the MENA market. Viewers will have access to new JioHotstar Originals alongside their India releases, with content available with audio tracks in up to 10 languages. The offering will also include television content from JioStar TV channels, films and reality franchises.

Among the content available to audiences will be the upcoming season of Koffee with Karan and the ongoing season of Bigg Boss across six languages. The library will feature content in Hindi, Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Bangla and other languages, along with a substantial Malayalam catalogue aimed at serving the region’s Malayali audience.

The JioHotstar offering will be available through STARZPLAY’s PLUS plan at AED 34.99 per month. The MAX plan, priced at AED 49.99 per month, will combine the complete JioHotstar entertainment offering with STARZPLAY’s sports portfolio, including major sporting events and cricket.

Commenting on JioHotstar’s expansion into the Middle East, Amit Malhotra, Head – International Business, JioStar, said, “The strong early response to JioHotstar across the UK, Canada and Singapore has reinforced our belief in the global opportunity for Indian entertainment. As we build JioHotstar into a truly global streaming platform, MENA is a crucial next market, with one of the world’s largest South Asian diaspora communities and a deep appetite for entertainment across languages. Our partnership with STARZPLAY allows us to enter the region with scale and bring audiences the breadth of JioHotstar, from new originals and daily television to blockbuster films and iconic reality franchises. This is an important step in taking Indian stories, talent and cultural moments to audiences around the world.”

Speaking about the partnership, Maaz Sheikh, CEO of STARZPLAY, said, “The next phase of streaming growth in MENA will be shaped by platforms that bring the right brands together and make the viewing experience more valuable. Audiences should not have to navigate an increasingly fragmented market to find the entertainment that matters to them. Bringing JioHotstar to STARZPLAY is a strategic investment in that future, combining the strength of India’s storytelling with our understanding of this region and the audiences we serve.”

“Cricket has given STARZPLAY a strong and lasting relationship with South Asian audiences across the region. JioHotstar allows us to extend that relationship beyond the match and into the entertainment households return to every day. Our ambition is to make STARZPLAY the destination where every member of the family finds something they value,” Maaz added.

To mark the MENA launch, the Burj Khalifa was illuminated as part of a launch celebration. JioHotstar’s Big Bang was projected onto the world’s tallest building in a display of colour and light, bringing together JioHotstar and STARZPLAY to mark the platform’s arrival in the region.

JioHotstar continues to explore features such as AI-powered personalisation, conversational discovery, interactive entertainment and in-app commerce. With its expansion into MENA, the platform now has an international presence spanning Europe, North America, Asia and the Middle East, with its approach tailored to the audiences in each market.

Also Read : Bigg Boss 20 teaser out: Salman Khan drops cryptic Karan Arjun hint ahead of September 6 premiere



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JioHotstar has expanded its international presence with its entry into the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The move follows its launch in the UK, Canada and Singapore, adding another key market with a large South Asian audience to the platform’s growing global footprint. Through an exclusive partnership with STARZPLAY, JioHotstar will be available as a dedicated streaming destination on the STARZPLAY app and website.

The partnership combines JioHotstar’s content library with STARZPLAY’s regional reach and understanding of audiences in the MENA market. Viewers will have access to new JioHotstar Originals alongside their India releases, with content available with audio tracks in up to 10 languages. The offering will also include television content from JioStar TV channels, films and reality franchises.

Among the content available to audiences will be the upcoming season of Koffee with Karan and the ongoing season of Bigg Boss across six languages. The library will feature content in Hindi, Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Bangla and other languages, along with a substantial Malayalam catalogue aimed at serving the region’s Malayali audience.

The JioHotstar offering will be available through STARZPLAY’s PLUS plan at AED 34.99 per month. The MAX plan, priced at AED 49.99 per month, will combine the complete JioHotstar entertainment offering with STARZPLAY’s sports portfolio, including major sporting events and cricket.

Commenting on JioHotstar’s expansion into the Middle East, Amit Malhotra, Head – International Business, JioStar, said, “The strong early response to JioHotstar across the UK, Canada and Singapore has reinforced our belief in the global opportunity for Indian entertainment. As we build JioHotstar into a truly global streaming platform, MENA is a crucial next market, with one of the world’s largest South Asian diaspora communities and a deep appetite for entertainment across languages. Our partnership with STARZPLAY allows us to enter the region with scale and bring audiences the breadth of JioHotstar, from new originals and daily television to blockbuster films and iconic reality franchises. This is an important step in taking Indian stories, talent and cultural moments to audiences around the world.”

Speaking about the partnership, Maaz Sheikh, CEO of STARZPLAY, said, “The next phase of streaming growth in MENA will be shaped by platforms that bring the right brands together and make the viewing experience more valuable. Audiences should not have to navigate an increasingly fragmented market to find the entertainment that matters to them. Bringing JioHotstar to STARZPLAY is a strategic investment in that future, combining the strength of India’s storytelling with our understanding of this region and the audiences we serve.”

“Cricket has given STARZPLAY a strong and lasting relationship with South Asian audiences across the region. JioHotstar allows us to extend that relationship beyond the match and into the entertainment households return to every day. Our ambition is to make STARZPLAY the destination where every member of the family finds something they value,” Maaz added.

To mark the MENA launch, the Burj Khalifa was illuminated as part of a launch celebration. JioHotstar’s Big Bang was projected onto the world’s tallest building in a display of colour and light, bringing together JioHotstar and STARZPLAY to mark the platform’s arrival in the region.

JioHotstar continues to explore features such as AI-powered personalisation, conversational discovery, interactive entertainment and in-app commerce. With its expansion into MENA, the platform now has an international presence spanning Europe, North America, Asia and the Middle East, with its approach tailored to the audiences in each market.

Also Read : Bigg Boss 20 teaser out: Salman Khan drops cryptic Karan Arjun hint ahead of September 6 premiere



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Producer Prakash Mahobiya has opened up about the theatrical performance of Mahakavya Shri Ramayan Katha, alleging that the mythological drama faced negative marketing and online campaigns that affected its reach. In an interview with India Today, Mahobiya claimed that the film did not get an adequate opportunity to reach audiences and suggested that an upcoming big-budget film based on the same epic may have influenced the online narrative. However, he stopped short of naming any project or filmmaker and said he could not confirm the information.

Speaking about the film’s reception, Mahobiya said, “It was negative marketing throughout. We never got a chance to reach our audience. The ones who watched our film really enjoyed it. But if they never got to see it, how will they even have an opinion?”

The producer further claimed that he had been told about efforts involving digital creators to discourage audiences from watching the film. He said, “From what we have been told, there are other movies on the same subject coming in, the big-budget film. As far as we know, a lot of negative marketing opportunities have been given to YouTubers, influencers and other people. They are spreading wrong information and asking people not to watch our film,” before adding, “I don’t know for sure, but that’s what we are being told.”

His comments come amid considerable attention around Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana, the upcoming two-part adaptation produced by Namit Malhotra. The film stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Raavan and is among the most closely watched upcoming Indian film projects. Mahobiya’s remarks, however, do not establish any connection between Ramayana and the alleged online campaigns against his film.

Mahobiya also admitted that marketing a film was a learning experience for him as a first-time producer. He said, “I have made a film for the first time, and I am new to this industry. I have no idea how to market a film after making it. We are not afraid of the loss, but we are disappointed that not many people managed to watch it. And hence, we want to release the film again.”

Maintaining that Mahakavya Shri Ramayan Katha offers a distinct interpretation, he added, “There is a lot of difference between your film and the other film that will arrive soon. But we are confident that, given a chance, people would have liked our film too.”

Directed by Abhishek Singh, Mahakavya Shri Ramayan Katha released in cinemas on September 25, 2026. The film stars Dev Sharma as Lord Ram, Anjali Arora as Goddess Sita, Sheel Verma as Laxman and Rajniesh Duggall in a pivotal role.

Following its theatrical run, the makers are now exploring the possibility of re-releasing the film in cinemas to give it another opportunity to reach audiences.

Also Read: Anjali Arora gives her take on the ongoing Ranbir Kapoor – prasad controversy; says, “Prasad is God’s blessing, it doesn’t increase weight”



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By the end of July, international films had amassed Rs. 1,424 crores at the Indian box office, putting 2026 within striking distance of the all-time annual record of Rs. 1,595 crores set in 2019. Leading the charge was Spider-Man: Brand New Day, which emerged as the highest-grossing international film ever in India. The strong momentum continued through August, with international cinema commanding a 15% share of the Indian box office, up from 10% in 2025. The overall Indian box office, too, has been witnessing consistent growth. The cumulative gross box office of all films released in India stood at Rs. 11,833 crores in 2024 and rose to Rs. 13,395 crores in 2025. With 2026 delivering strong results across languages, genres and budgets, Ashish Misra, Head of Commercialisation, Cinepolis India, believes it would not be a surprise if the cumulative box office crosses the Rs. 15,000 crore mark for the first time.

In an exclusive conversation with Bollywood Hungama, Ashish Misra spoke about Hollywood’s impressive resurgence, expectations from Ramayana, the packed final quarter of 2026 and why the year could turn out to be a historic one for the Indian film industry.

How do you view Hollywood's performance so far this year? Not just biggies but even smaller films like Obsession worked big time… Hollywood has bounced back after facing a few barriers. The strikes in 2023 delayed the production and release of several films, and that had a trickle-down effect on box office performance as well. But this year, we have witnessed renewed interest, with films across multiple genres performing well.

Historically, horror has been a promising genre for Hollywood films in India. We have seen that with The Conjuring universe, the Evil Dead series, etc. Hence, Obsession performing well was not a surprise, especially because the film had incredibly positive word of mouth not just in India but globally. Today, in a connected world, when people start praising a movie, we see that sentiment translating into the Indian box office as well. That’s what happened with Obsession.

Meanwhile, Michael also did well. Project Hail Mary caught the imagination of Indian audiences because of its visuals and subject. And now, Spider-Man: Brand New Day has become the biggest Hollywood film ever in India. It is part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, which tends to perform very well in the country. Its performance has further increased our expectations from Avengers: Doomsday.

Hence, December looks very promising from an exhibitor’s point of view. Besides Avengers: Doomsday, we also have Dune: Part Three and Jumanji: Open World. Overall, 2026 is shaping up to be a very strong year for the industry.

Besides Avengers: Doomsday, Dune: Part Three and Jumanji: Open World, Shah Rukh Khan’s King also releases around the same time. Will it be a challenge to divide shows among these four anticipated films? When it comes to programming, it’s ultimately about demand. The idea is to allot more shows to the films that audiences want to watch. To give you an example, Toxic and Hanuman Ansh were playing in cinemas at the same time. Toxic was expected to be a huge grosser, while Hanuman Ansh, despite having released three weeks earlier, was gradually gaining momentum around the same time. Our programming accordingly evolved based on what the audiences were demanding.

What are your hopes from Ramayana? All of us Indians have grown up being mesmerized by the story of the Ramayana. Its theme of good versus evil resonates with audiences across the country. Hence, our expectations from Ramayana are very high.

It is mounted on such a massive scale that we believe it has the potential to become the biggest film the Indian film industry has ever seen. And it’s not just about India. The film also has the ability to take Indian culture and heritage to audiences across the world.

Any final thoughts? 2026 looks set to be the best-ever year for the Indian film industry. It will probably be the first time that the box office in India crosses the Rs. 15,000 crores mark. What is particularly encouraging is that the contribution is not coming from just a handful of blockbusters; a lot of small and medium-budget films are also doing very well. That’s one trend that has given us a lot of confidence.

Also Read: Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama: Ramayana makers unveil BTS glimpse on actor’s birthday



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Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma has weighed in on the deepfake controversy involving Janhvi Kapoor and the song ‘Chuttamalle’, and the celebrity reaction that followed. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he shared his views on how the matter has been handled.

Varma wrote, "The only thing all the celebrities succeeded in, is to publicise and thereby make crores and crores of people see the objectionable link.. The smart thing would have been to concentrate on catching the perpetrator and publicise that.. Instead what they did is to tweet and bring enormous attention to the victim's identity and the offensive content which is also a crime."

The only thing all the celebrities succeeded in , is to publicise and thereby make crores and crores of people see the objectionable link ..The smart thing would have been to concentrate on catching the perpetrator and publicise that ..Instead what they did is to tweet and bring enormous attention to the victim’s identity and the offensive content which is also a crime — Ram Gopal Varma (@RGVzoomin) October 4, 2026

In another tweet, he added, "When you can't WIN , you should JOIN …. . If you fight A I , it will ERASE you out of EXISTENCE." In essence, Varma's view is that a call for action against those spreading the AI-generated version would have been a better approach than a wave of public condemnation.

When you can’t WIN , you should JOIN …. . If you fight A I , it will ERASE you out of EXISTENCE 😔 — Ram Gopal Varma (@RGVzoomin) October 5, 2026

For the past few days, Janhvi has been at the centre of a social media storm after a deepfake AI video depicting the actress in an inappropriate manner, made from the ‘Chuttamalle’ song, began circulating on the platform. The actress penned a long note on Monday, 5 October, condemning the act and expressing her disappointment over such cybercrimes.

Janhvi has received strong support from her fans and followers. Her Devara co-star Jr NTR, with whom she featured in the ‘Chuttamalle’ song, also took to the platform to post a scathing message. He was followed by several big names from the South industry, including megastar Chiranjeevi.

The episode has brought two approaches into focus. One, reflected in the reaction of Janhvi and her supporters, is to publicly condemn deepfake abuse and stand with the victim. The other, voiced by Varma, is to prioritise tracking down and acting against the perpetrator while avoiding further spread of the content. Both positions come from the shared concern that AI misuse is a serious problem, though they differ on how best to respond.

Also Read: Janhvi Kapoor condemns morphed AI video from Devara Part 1 song ‘Chuttamalle’: “Consent, choice and respect for a woman’s body should be basic”



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The leading heroine in Ayushmann Khurrana’s Mupapa has been revealed. Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learned that Shreyaa Chaudhry, who has steadily established herself as one of the most promising actors of her generation through acclaimed performances in Prime Video’s Bandish Bandits and The Mehta Boys, is paired opposite Khurrana in Yash Raj Films and Posham Pa Pictures’ upcoming genre-bending thriller.

Known for her natural performances and ability to bring depth and emotion to her characters, Shreyaa has built a strong connection with audiences through a diverse body of work. Her performances across both seasons of Bandish Bandits were appreciated for their natural and relatable portrayal, while The Mehta Boys further showcased her versatility and ability to take on layered characters. With Mupapa, Shreyaa takes another significant step forward in her career.

Directed by Kaala Paani fame Sameer Saxena, Mupapa is produced by Akshaye Widhani (CEO, Yash Raj Films) and Posham Pa Pictures, the banner Sameer co-founded with Biswapati Sarkar, Saurabh Khanna and Amit Golani. The film marks the first theatrical collaboration between the studio and the production house. Although the plot details of the project are strictly kept under wraps, it's expected to deliver an incredibly new visual experience for people in theaters, while promising to keep the audience at the edge of their seats from the word go. The film is presently in the post-production stage and is slated for a release in cinemas on February 19, 2027.

In another significant career development, Shreyaa Chaudhry has also been signed for exclusive management by YRF Talent, marking a new chapter in her professional journey. She now joins the talent management arm of Yash Raj Films, which represents an impressive roster of established stars and some of the most promising names from the new generation, including Rani Mukerji, Ayushmann Khurrana, Sonam Kapoor, Vaani Kapoor, Sharvari, Ahaan Panday, Aneet Padda, among others.

Also Read: Yash Raj Films and Posham Pa Pictures’ first theatrical collaboration starring Ayushmann Khurrana is titled Mupapa, set to release on Feb 19, 2027



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Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna recently opened up about love, marriage and relationships during a candid conversation with Prakhar Gupta on his podcast. While discussing how relationships evolve over time, the couple shared their thoughts on making conscious efforts for loved ones and the importance of expressing affection, even when partners may feel they already understand each other.

Rashmika explained that while a relationship should not feel like something one person has to constantly “drive”, partners must continue making small efforts for each other. She said, “But also, you know, can I just give you two bits into it? I completely agree with you that you can't be the driver. It has to just be an automobile where it's just, like, going by itself. But also, we human beings always need to keep making efforts for those people who we love, because very often, we make a lot of effort for everyone else other than the people at our own house.”

She further pointed out how some of the simplest expressions of affection can gradually disappear in a long-term relationship. Rashmika said, “I keep thinking that, you know, very soon after you get married, some very basic things you stop telling each other, like 'good morning', or 'are you doing well?' or 'how is your day?' It goes into, 'Huh, my partner already knows now, what's the point of saying it?' And then it could go into, like, 'Why haven't I heard this in such a long time?' And then things in life would be, you know, driving us into different aspects in life generally.”

Rashmika added that these small gestures remain important regardless of how long two people have been together. “So, I feel like efforts, no matter how into the relationship you are, or into the marriage you are, or even if you have kids together, I still feel like those little efforts should be made for each other. And that is love. It's not like... it should be effortless, but also you need to do these things because you want to do these things. And that's something that I believe in love.”

Vijay then revealed how Rashmika herself makes it a point to express her feelings frequently. He said, “No, no, no. She is very clear about it. Yeh toh humare... hum sabse mature hai relationships ke bare mein (She is the most mature one about a relationship compared to all of us). Look at how she is talking. She makes sure she tells me 'I love you' at least 10-15 times a day. And she tells me that it's important that I express. I constantly feel it, but I shouldn't feel like, 'Okay, he knows, and I don't need to say it.'”

Rashmika's point actually made a lot of sense to me. A relationship doesn't stay strong just because two people love each other. It survives because both people keep putting in the small efforts every single day.

And the way Vijay said Rashmika reminds him to say "I love you" and never stop doing the little things... that's probably why their bond feels so genuine. Sometimes it's really the small things that keep a relationship alive.

— Himanshu Yadav (@HimashuYadav07) October 4, 2026

The actor also credited Rashmika for reminding him to communicate those seemingly small but meaningful feelings. “And she tells me, which makes me aware that because we are so caught up in life, sometimes you can forget these smaller, simpler but important things. So, she is the one who actually made me... mujhe toh 4-5 saal kya hai gaadi auto mein ja sakte hai, pata chala main chala gaya (I could have gone on autopilot for four-five years, and before I knew it, I would have gone too far).”

Meanwhile, Ranabaali also stars Arnold Vosloo and several Indian and international actors. The period drama marks Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna’s third film together after Geetha Govindam and Dear Comrade. It also marks their first onscreen appearance following their marriage in February 2026.

Also Read: Vijay Deverakonda praises Rashmika Mandanna’s Mysaa teaser: “Just no more injuries please”



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Janhvi Kapoor has spoken out against the circulation of a morphed AI-generated video featuring her from the Devara Part 1 song ‘Chuttumalle’. The incident has sparked widespread concern on social media, with the actress once again becoming a victim of digital manipulation. Janhvi, who has previously spoken about being targeted by deepfake technology, took to Instagram to condemn the misuse of technology and the violation of women’s consent.

In a detailed note, Janhvi highlighted how the objectification of women through manipulated digital content has become an increasingly serious concern. She wrote, “The criminal misuse of technology to objectify women and circulate fictionalised content without consent is deeply violating, bordering on sexual assault. Almost every woman in my industry has faced some version of this, and women everywhere are increasingly being subjected to it,” her note read and continued, “Consent, choice and respect for a woman's body should be among the most basic notions of humanity. Yet somehow, they continue to be treated as complicated. They are not.”

Janhvi further explained that consent cannot be assumed or taken for granted under any circumstances. Drawing an analogy, she wrote, “It is surprising that it still seems too nuanced for some people to understand that even if a woman says yes five days in a row and no on the sixth, that no must be respected. If she happens to wear a miniskirt, it does not give anyone permission to put a camera up her skirt, capture violating angles or visually exploit her body. What a woman is comfortable with, where she draws the line and what she chooses to do with her body are decisions that belong exclusively to her. This is basic.”

The actress also placed the incident within the larger conversation around women’s safety, saying that the threat of violation has now extended into the digital space. “This goes far beyond the ai videos I have dealt with over the last few days, or anything I have personally experienced throughout my career. It is about the larger reality of being a woman, the gaze, the judgement, the constant negotiation for safety, and the feeling that our boundaries somehow remain open to interpretation. That threat has now expanded into the digital sphere, when we have not even adequately addressed the very real, physical fear that continues to disrupt the lives of women every day,” she said.

Janhvi also stressed that the responsibility cannot solely be placed on women to protect themselves - “The answer cannot simply be to "protect your daughter." we also need to undo the conditioning that makes people believe they are entitled to violate somebody else's boundaries in the first place. And part of that change will come from exemplary men with the moral compass and the spine to say clearly what is right and what is wrong.”

The actress thanked her Devara co-star NTR Jr., along with Chiranjeevi, Vijay Deverakonda and Khushbu Sundar, for speaking up against the incident and supporting her. She expressed, “I am deeply touched by NTR sir for taking such a strong stand and condemning this violation. Thank you, sir. When someone whom millions look up to speaks up about something that may not directly concern him, it makes a difference to every woman who has experienced some degree of this behaviour.” “Thank you also to Chiranjeevi sir, Vijay and Khushbu ma'am for amplifying that sentiment and calling for action against this mentality and these immoral practices,” she added.

She concluded by urging people to reconsider the attitude towards women’s boundaries and choice, “I hope everything unfolding around us right now forces those who participate in any form of harassment to introspect. Is it really too much for a woman to ask to simply be treated and seen as a human being? Her body. Her image. Her boundaries. Her choice.”

Also Read: All about this effortless beauty avatar of Janhvi Kapoor: Actress keeps it understated with concealer, pink blush and nude lips



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On September 23, the nominations for the 54th International Emmy Awards were announced and, in a significant achievement for India, the SonyLIV series Real Kashmir Football Club bagged a nomination in the Best Drama Series category. The recognition came as a pleasant surprise for the team, who are understandably on cloud nine. In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, Simaab Hashmi, the lead writer and an executive producer of Real Kashmir Football Club, spoke about the making of the show, its portrayal of Kashmir, the unexpected Emmy honour, the possibility of Season 2 and a lot more.

Congratulations on the Emmy nomination. This is huge… Thank you so much. We are still in disbelief. Everytime someone calls me and congratulates me, it takes me a second to process that yes, our show has indeed made it to the Emmys! It’s not something you imagine will happen. Someone said that it is TV ka Oscars (laughs).

How did you get associated with the show as a writer and executive producer? I came across a newspaper article about the football club. I was amazed to learn there’s a football team in Kashmir. What further added to my surprise was that a Kashmiri Pandit and a Kashmiri Muslim came together to start this team. It sounded too good to be true. I asked myself, ‘How did this happen and how come nobody knows about it?’. I met a writer friend and told him that we should do something about this story. Meanwhile, I also met a common friend, who eventually become a producer on the show – Vishakha Singh. She also essayed the role of Manav Kaul’s wife. She was completely sold by the idea. We didn’t know whether it would be made into a film or a series, but we definitely wanted to work on it. She asked me to call the owners and get the rights.

I called them, but by then, bahut logon ka call chala gaya tha unko. As you know, Bollywood is always looking for the next great story, right? So, they told me, ‘This person called me, that person called me’. They also said, ‘We are busy. Come and talk to us’. I told Vishakha that we should head to Srinagar. The next day, we were there. We told the owners that we had landed and they couldn’t believe it. I told them, ‘Aapne hi bola tha ki aa jaao’! This was the person whose character was eventually played by Mohd Zeeshan Ayyub bhai. We met him and got a first-hand experience of Kashmiri hospitality. He also introduced me to the Pandit owner, the late Sandeep Chattoo, who is no longer with us.

Then, we kept going back and spent months there. We have heard so many stories about Kashmir that are told from an outsider’s perspective. We were clear that until we understood what the people were really like, we shouldn’t make this series. We would stay in people’s homes because they were so warm and inviting.

Later, we met Kilian Kerwin, the seasoned producer of Delhi Crime. He loved the subject and immediately said, ‘We are making the show’. We met a lot of platforms, but since this was a very different story, we would often be told, ‘Kashmir ki story toh yeh nahin lag rahi hai’. My response was, ‘Exactly! That’s why it should be made. It’s not a regular tale of Kashmir’. It’s a story of hope, contrary to the dark tales that we have usually seen set in the Valley. Thankfully, Kilian believed in the idea and decided to put money into it. So, we made the show without having a platform on board.

Kilian brought in Mahesh Mathai, the legendary ad filmmaker, as the director. He became the captain of the ship and guided us throughout. Once the show was completed, SonyLIV came on board. They were great partners; Danish Khan, Saugata Mukherjee and the whole team were very excited about the show. The rest is history, especially after what has happened with the Emmy nomination.

Were Mohd Zeeshan Ayyub and Manav Kaul the original choices for the roles of Sohail Meer and Shirish Kemmu? They were the only two choices. Nowadays, we hear that ‘Yeh banda famous hai. Iske kaafi Instagram followers hain. Isko cast kar lo’. But that’s not how we functioned. Manav Kaul is a Kashmiri himself. When we met him, we instantly realized that he would be apt. The same applied to Zeeshan. Both actors are great; it was surprising that they had never worked together.

They were very collaborative. We would make up scenes on the set. Mahesh sir was so nice and liberal that he would tell us, ‘You boys just figure it out’! Me, Manav bhai and Zeeshan would then sit in the van and be like ‘Iss scene ko aise karte hai’. So, we did tweak some of the scenes.

Can you give us an example of a scene which was improvised on the set? After the wedding takes place on the football ground, there’s a confrontation scene between Manav bhai and Zeeshan about the future of the club. That scene was very different initially. We had doubts about whether it was working or not. While the production team was setting up the scene, Zeeshan, Manav bhai, Kilian and I sat together and created a new version of it. Then, Mahesh sir came in and added his magic sprinkle on top of it.

How did the people of Kashmir react to the show? I can’t tell you the number of people who have reached out. Even while we were making the show and doing our research, everyone was so happy that we were telling a story about the football club. After the show was released, several local personalities, including RJs, reached out to me on Instagram or somehow got my number and messaged me, ‘Thank you, Simaab, for showing us how we actually are’! Some even remarked, ‘The normal day-to-day life that we have has never been represented on celluloid’.

From the start, my idea was that mujhe Kashmiri ke kitchen ki kahaani jaanni hai. Their lives are just like ours, and the same goes for their joys and troubles. Of course, they have larger problems as well, but I wanted to depict the human experience of a Kashmiri. The best way I can put it is that Kashmiris felt represented.

I met so many women there who are working, running businesses and leading their families. We have rarely seen that represented in popular culture. Even though our show is about a men’s football team, each and every female character was very important. Some of them were even leading certain tracks in the show.

For the first time in my life, I heard Kashmiri abuses, thanks to your show… (Laughs) We used to hang out with a lot of Kashmiri boys. We noticed that while talking among themselves, they would use choicy words! I would ask them what they meant. They would say, ‘Yeh so-and-so Hindi gaali ka Kashmiri equivalent hain’! I would note everything down. Adhir Bhat, who is also a Kashmiri, wrote the dialogues and helped us figure out the correct words to use.

How many days did it take to shoot Real Kashmir Football Club? I know it feels like a very long show, but we finished the shoot in record time – just 55 days! And this was despite all the football sequences, which involved so many different angles, setups and cameras. One thing I learnt was that shooting football is like shooting action!

Will there be a Season 2? After all, the show ends by informing viewers that Real Kashmir Football Club had another round of success two years after the events shown in the first season, in 2018… There are a lot of stories about the club that remain untold. Our show came out last December and suddenly, people are now texting and calling me to say, ‘This is such a good show’. So, I am hoping that the Emmy honour may lead us to a second season. We have plenty of stories left to tell.

I remember once I randomly told Sandeep Chattoo, ‘Sir, this is such a fairy tale story’. He replied, ‘Let me correct you that this is not a fairy tale story. Fairy tales come to an end, while Real Kashmir is forever’. So, we hope to tell more stories from Kashmir.



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Mona Singh has begun shooting for her next film in the UK, continuing a busy year that has seen the actor take on multiple roles across different projects. After appearing in six distinct roles in 2026, Singh has now started work on another feature film.

The actor took to social media to share a glimpse from the film’s picturesque shooting location in the Cotswolds. Along with the post, Mona expressed her excitement about being part of the project and hinted at its unconventional approach to filmmaking. She captioned the post: "This project/movie feels special and unprecedented , its because we have thrown out the old rule book. #actorslife #cotswold #makingmovies #instamood #oct2026".

Her note suggests that the upcoming film will take a different approach to storytelling, moving away from conventional narrative formats. While details about the project are currently under wraps, her post offers a glimpse into the creative process behind the film.

 

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As per reports, the film is directed by Vikas Bahl and features an ensemble cast of Indian and international actors, musicians and performers. The story is reportedly set in Britain in the early 1990s and explores the period when the UK Punjabi music movement was beginning to take shape.

The film is set against a time when a generation growing up between cultures was finding its voice through music and performance. The narrative reportedly traces this period through garages, backrooms, pirate radio stations and underground gigs, reflecting the emergence of a cultural movement that would go on to shape the experiences of a generation.

With production now underway in the Cotswolds, further details about the cast, storyline and release plans are awaited.

Also Read : EXCLUSIVE: Vikas Bahl’s next stars Jimmy Shergill, Siddhant Chaturvedi, Mona Singh, Alizeh Agnihotri; based on the explosive rise of Punjabi music in 90s UK



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Ramesh Taurani and Kumar Taurani spoke to Komal Nahta about their journey and experience of working on the music of some important films in their career. Ramesh Taurani also spoke of an embarrassing experience involving Suniel Shetty ad the beginning their journey.

Ramesh Taurani revealed, “I bought music rights of two films from Firoz Nadiadwala – Ram Shastra (1995) and one more film starring Anil Kapoor. Anil’s film was never made and we adjusted the money in Ram Shastra. After I paid him for the music rights of his two films, he announced three more films the next day. One film starred Suniel Shetty and he had just arrived in the industry. Firoz Nadiadwala asked me to acquire the music rights of those three films as well. I told him, ‘I don’t want’. When he asked the reason, I replied, ‘Kyunki aapki picture mein hero toh Suniel Shetty hai’. This happened in 1990 or 1991. We were new; we didn’t know that we couldn’t talk in this way.”

Ramesh raised laughs as he said, “One hour later, I got a call from Jatin Rajguru, the secretary of Suniel Shetty. He said, ‘Suniel wants to meet you’. I asked them to come to our office. He came in an hour and told me, ‘Sir, aap aisa mat bolo ki Suniel Shetty ki picture nahin lenge’. I confessed that I did say that but also assured him that I would buy the rights of his next two films. Those two films were Raghuveer (1995) and Takkar (1995). We were also involved in the music sittings. Takkar’s song ‘Aankhon Mein Base Ho Tum’ is popular even today.”

Ramesh Taurani remarked, “It was a lesson that taught us ki industry mein kya nahin bolna chahiye!”

Also Read: Ramesh Taurani reveals how his Rs. 5 lakh cheque helped Salman Khan get paid and kickstarted Patthar Ke Phool – a film that was NEVER supposed to be made



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Ramesh Taurani and Kumar Taurani spoke to Komal Nahta about their journey and experience of working on the music of some important films in their career. At the beginning, Ramesh Taurani said, “The first film whose music rights we acquired was Gunahon Ka Devta (1990). We paid Rs. 2.25 lakhs for it. We both didn’t sleep for 2 nights as we had paid Rs. 25,000 to the makers. Then we wondered, ‘Inko Rs. 2 lakhs chukayenge kaise?’ (laughs)! We also bought the music rights of Elaan-E-Jung (1989), which, again was an action film. We wanted to prove ourselves. So, we installed 6 hoardings for this film in Mumbai, in places like Bandra, Juhu, etc. Imagine a music company putting up posters, that too of an action film. But it worked as it sparked a discussion among filmmakers. They felt ki ‘Yeh toh acchi music company hai’!”

Ramesh continued, “Then, we bagged the rights of Patthar Ke Phool (1991). Bhagyashree took the full credit for Maine Pyar Kiya (1989). 3 months after its release, Salman Khan didn’t have any film in its pipeline. That’s when Salim saab asked G P Sippy saab to announce that he was producing Salman’s next film. He told Sippy saab, ‘Bhale aap picture mat banao lekin aapke announcement se ek boost milega’.”

Ramesh Taurani revealed, “It was in Film Information magazine where I read that G P Sippy has signed Salman Khan. The news got published on Saturday and on Monday, I was in G P Sippy saab’s office. I expressed the desire to acquire the music rights. I asked him, ‘Have you signed any music director?’. He replied, ‘No’. I then asked if he had got a lyricist on board. He told me, ‘We haven’t done that either’. I requested him to get the Maine Pyar Kiya team again – music director Raamlaxman, lyricist Dev Kohli, and singers S P Balasubrahmanyam and Lata Mangeshkar! I told him, ‘Yeh combination hi aap lena. Aap bataiye aapka price kya hai?’.”

Ramesh added, “G P Sippy saab confessed that he hadn’t given much thought to the music and asked me to meet him after 2 days. Meanwhile, he was in touch with Viveck Vaswani, who wished to make an Rs. 80 lakh project called Patthar Ke Phool. Viveck wanted to sign Salman Khan and Ravi Tandon’s daughter, Raveena Tandon. Sippy saab initially declined, saying that it was a small project while they were used to making big-budget films. But after he met me, he felt, ‘Music ka aadmi aa gaya kheeli ek announcement pe. Toh iss project ko active karte hain’ (smiles).”

Ramesh Taurani stated, “Hence, he called Viveck Vaswani and the next day, he met Raamlaxman and discussed his fees. He asked for Rs. 12 lakhs. A day later, G P Sippy saab met me and told me, ‘Woh bahut mehenga hai. Rs. 12 lakh maanga’. Those days, Anand-Milind’s music rights used to be sold for Rs. 2-3 lakhs, while Laxmikant-Pyarelal’s music rights were sold in the range of Rs. 3-5 lakhs. I was in a spot as I was the one who had suggested Raamlaxman’s name! Finally, we negotiated and bought the rights for Rs. 10 lakhs.”

Ramesh then said, “We gave G P Sippy saab the first cheque amounting to Rs. 5 lakhs. From that amount, payments were made to Salman, Raveena and Salim saab, who was also the film’s writer. That’s how the film went on floors!”

Also Read: Lyricist Mehboob reacts to ‘Humma Humma’ remake in OK Jaanu: “NOT very happy with the idea of remixes…we have great creative minds, so why not make something new?”



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Ramesh Taurani and Kumar Taurani spoke to Komal Nahta about their journey and experience of working on the music of some important films in their career. Ramesh Taurani also spoke of an embarrassing experience involving Suniel Shetty ad the beginning their journey.

Ramesh Taurani revealed, “I bought music rights of two films from Firoz Nadiadwala – Ram Shastra (1995) and one more film starring Anil Kapoor. Anil’s film was never made and we adjusted the money in Ram Shastra. After I paid him for the music rights of his two films, he announced three more films the next day. One film starred Suniel Shetty and he had just arrived in the industry. Firoz Nadiadwala asked me to acquire the music rights of those three films as well. I told him, ‘I don’t want’. When he asked the reason, I replied, ‘Kyunki aapki picture mein hero toh Suniel Shetty hai’. This happened in 1990 or 1991. We were new; we didn’t know that we couldn’t talk in this way.”

Ramesh raised laughs as he said, “One hour later, I got a call from Jatin Rajguru, the secretary of Suniel Shetty. He said, ‘Suniel wants to meet you’. I asked them to come to our office. He came in an hour and told me, ‘Sir, aap aisa mat bolo ki Suniel Shetty ki picture nahin lenge’. I confessed that I did say that but also assured him that I would buy the rights of his next two films. Those two films were Raghuveer (1995) and Takkar (1995). We were also involved in the music sittings. Takkar’s song ‘Aankhon Mein Base Ho Tum’ is popular even today.”

Ramesh Taurani remarked, “It was a lesson that taught us ki industry mein kya nahin bolna chahiye!”

Also Read: Ramesh Taurani reveals how his Rs. 5 lakh cheque helped Salman Khan get paid and kickstarted Patthar Ke Phool – a film that was NEVER supposed to be made



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Actor Ranveer Singh has praised Captain Smit Machchhar for his actions during a mid-air emergency involving Flydubai flight FZ1073.

The flight was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30 when it was diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, following a violent confrontation in the cockpit. Captain Smit Machchhar sustained injuries during the incident but managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to intervene and help bring the situation under control.

The aircraft, which was carrying over 170 people, was subsequently brought under control and landed safely. The incident drew attention to the captain’s actions during the emergency.

Ranveer Singh took to his Instagram Stories to share a picture of Captain Machchhar and acknowledge his bravery. The actor wrote, “CAPTAIN COURAGEOUS”, accompanied by a salute emoji and the Indian flag emoji.

Through his social media post, Ranveer expressed his appreciation for the captain’s actions during the incident.

The Flydubai incident has since drawn attention to the events aboard the flight and the actions taken by the cockpit crew and passengers before the aircraft landed safely in Saudi Arabia.

Also Read : EXCLUSIVE: CBFC orders 45-50 cuts for Dhurandhar The Revenge’s TV Premiere; U/A 16+ version is 10 minutes shorter



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Emraan Hashmi has added another luxury SUV to his enviable car collection. The actor recently took delivery of a brand-new Mercedes-Benz AMG G63, reportedly worth Rs. 4.3 crore, and pictures of him posing with his new set of wheels outside his residence have been doing the rounds on social media.

The purchase comes at an interesting time for the actor, who has had a significant box office outing with Awarapan 2. The film's entry into the Rs. 100 crore club marks an important milestone in Emraan's career, which spans over two decades. With his upcoming film Gunmaaster G9 also generating interest, the new SUV is being seen as a celebratory addition to his garage.

The Mercedes-Benz AMG G63 is among the most sought-after luxury SUVs in India. Mercedes-Benz India introduced the imported AMG version in 2024 at an ex-showroom price of Rs. 3.60 crore, with reports suggesting that its first batch was sold out even before the vehicles arrived in the country. Under the hood, the SUV packs a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in just 4.3 seconds and has a claimed top speed of 240 kmph.

Emraan's latest acquisition further expands a garage that already boasts some impressive names. Earlier this year, the actor added a Range Rover Autobiography to his collection. His previous automobiles have also included a Rolls-Royce Ghost Black Badge, a Lamborghini Huracan and a Maybach S560.

Known for his fondness for automobiles, Emraan's latest purchase is yet another glimpse into his passion for luxury cars, with the Mercedes-AMG G63 now joining his impressive collection.

Also Read: SCOOP: Jannat 2 duo Emraan Hashmi and Randeep Hooda likely to reunite for an action thriller by Sajid Nadiadwala



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In November 2022, Drishyam 2 was among the first major films of the post-pandemic era to witness post-midnight and early morning shows, as theatres responded to the tremendous demand for the Ajay Devgn-led thriller. Four years later, history is repeating itself with Drishyam The Conclusion. The much-awaited third instalment of the franchise is all set for a historic opening today, October 2, and the unprecedented demand is already visible in the way exhibitors have opened up post-midnight shows even before release day.

Unlike Drishyam 2, where several post-midnight shows were added only in the second half of the opening day, exhibitors have acted much earlier this time. Realizing that the advances for Day 1 are exceptionally strong and anticipating historic collections, several theatres began opening bookings for post-midnight shows as early as October 1, a day before the film's release.

In Mumbai and the surrounding areas, post-midnight shows have been opened at PVR Lower Parel, Cinepolis Seawoods, Metro Inox, Inox R City Ghatkopar, Maxus Borivali, Inox Malad, PVR Oberoi Mall Goregaon, PVR Phoenix Market City Kurla, PVR Juhu, PVR Citi Mall Andheri, Inox Sky City Mall Borivali, PVR Chakala, PVR Orion Panvel, PVR Palava, Cinepolis Bhandup, Funcity Big Cinema Ulhasnagar, Inox Raghuleela Kandivali, Cinepolis Andheri, PVR Infiniti Andheri, PVR Infiniti Malad and Miraj Dombivali.

Interestingly, Maxus Bhayander has gone a step further and is showing Drishyam The Conclusion practically round the clock. The cinema has scheduled shows at 12:35 am, 1:05 am, 2:05 am, 3:05 am, 4:05 am and 5:05 am, making it a 24/7 affair for the film.

The trend isn't restricted to Mumbai. In Pune, post-midnight shows have been opened at Inox Megaplex Wakad, PVR Phoenix Market City, Cinepolis Seasons Mall, Inox Chinchwad, PVR Icon The Pavilion, PVR Hinjawadi, PVR Kumar Pacific, Inox Jai Ganesh Akurdi, Inox Royal Heritage Mall, Inox Royal Heritage Mall and Inox Bund Garden Road. In Ahmedabad, the film has also begun getting post-midnight shows at Connplex Prahladnagar, Classic Cinema Gandhinagar, PVR Motera, Connplex SBR, The Cinestar Miniplex SP Ring Road and CLEXA.

More cinemas across different cities are also expected to add post-midnight shows as the day progresses, especially given the strong advance booking response. The unprecedented demand for Drishyam The Conclusion has clearly prompted exhibitors to start adding shows much earlier than they did for Drishyam 2, setting the stage for a potentially historic opening for the franchise.

The other interesting aspect is the high-ticket pricing. Despite the steep rates, there is tremendous demand among audiences to watch Drishyam The Conclusion as soon as possible. As per exhibition sources, theatres have been asked to price tickets for the film on par with Spider-Man: Brand New Day and Dhurandhar The Revenge.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: CBFC clears Drishyam The Conclusion WITHOUT a single cut; is 8 minutes longer than Drishyam 2



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Indian cinema’s premier leading ladies are continually redefining international style standards, bringing high-octane glamour, sharp tailoring, and rich sartorial heritage to prestigious global stages. From the historic fashion capitals of Paris and London to star-studded international red carpets in Cannes, Milan, and Riyadh, these powerhouse actors have established themselves as undeniable global fashion icons. This list highlights five leading Indian actresses who truly aced international fashion events, perfectly combining high-fashion couture with confident individuality.

Deepika Padukone: ⁠Making a striking impression at Paris Fashion Week for the Louis Vuitton Fall/Winter 2025 presentation (#LVFW25), global House Ambassador Deepika Padukone exuded timeless, old-world Parisian sophistication in a sharply tailored light-grey trench coat featuring an oversized white lapel collar, styled effortlessly with dark leather gloves, sheer black tights, classic pumps, and a statement wide-brimmed white hat.

 

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Priyanka Chopra Jonas: Stepping out for an exclusive, star-studded evening with Bvlgari in Milan, Italy, Priyanka Chopra Jonas commanded the room in a dramatic, body-sculpting black mermaid gown designed with a plunging sweetheart neckline and an avant-garde folded shoulder accent, beautifully offset by a sparkling high-jewelry diamond necklace and a sleek pulled-back updo.

 

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Kriti Sanon: Taking front-row center stage at London Fashion Week for the Burberry show, Kriti Sanon defined autumn-winter chic in a structured dark mocha-brown textured trench coat thoughtfully styled with an eye-catching geometric teal scarf tucked along the neckline, an updoupdoop-knotd a sleek luxury shoulder bag.

 

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Alia Bhatt: Gracing the opening night of the prestigious Cannes Film Festival on behalf of global beauty giant L'Oréal Paris, Alia Bhatt delivered pure fairytale romance on the French Riviera in a soft blush-pink strapless gown with a deep plunge neckline, seamlessly anchored by a light, flowing sheer train draped elegantly around her arm.

 

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Shraddha Kapoor: Representing Indian cinema at the prestigious Joy Awards during Riyadh Season in Saudi Arabia, Shraddha Kapoor fused regal Indian tradition with modern Middle Eastern couture in a mesmerizing black saree-style gown lavishly detailed with intricate gold metallic hand-embroidery across the bodice, sheer sleeves, and trailing pallu.

 

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With these standout international appearances, these actors continue to elevate Indian talent on the global fashion stage, proving that whether on the red carpet or front row at fashion week, their sartorial choices remain undeniably world-class.

Also Read: From Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Deepika Padukone to Bhumi Pednekar: Bollywood actresses who turned heads at global fashion events



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Bigg Boss 20 Week 4 has had its share of fights, nominations, task drama and shifting equations, but the overall energy inside the house has remained relatively subdued. With Friday set for the Weekend Ka Vaar shoot, there are several issues from the week that deserve to be put under the spotlight. From Love Gill’s increasingly complicated group dynamics to Gullu’s captaincy and Qazi Touqeer’s growing disconnect with his own allies, here are four things Salman Khan should address.

1. Love Gill needs to STOP playing peacemaker at her own expense Love Gill’s biggest problem right now may not be her game, but her tendency to constantly keep the peace within her group.

Across the past few weeks, Love has repeatedly found herself apologising to her friends and group members after confrontations. One of the earliest examples came after Yung DSA lost his life, with the group suspecting that Gullu had played a role in the decision. At the same time, Gullu’s equation with Love, including their flirting, appeared to create discomfort among some members of the group.

Aamrapali Dubey subsequently confronted Love over the situation. While Love initially stood her ground, she eventually apologised to Aamrapali.

 

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A similar pattern emerged when Aasif Khan expressed his frustration over Love seemingly prioritising Scout OP and Yung DSA and relying more heavily on their opinions.

The latest incident involving Yung was even more telling. After Love danced on Gullu’s bed, Yung made a comment that she found inappropriate. Love confronted him, but the situation escalated, with Aamrapali also getting involved. Love eventually apologised to Yung.

The most interesting part is that Love herself has admitted to Aasif that she does not feel she can completely be herself within the group.

That is precisely where Salman could ask her to take a step back and assess her game. Being diplomatic is one thing, but constantly trying to keep everyone happy can prevent a contestant from establishing an individual identity. Love has shown that she can stand her ground. The question is whether she will continue doing so when it comes at the cost of keeping her group happy. 2. Gullu needs to move beyond the safety net of captaincy Kushal Tanwar, aka Gullu, entered the Bigg Boss house with expectations attached to him. As a winner of MTV Roadies XX: Double Cross, he already had a reality-show history built around tasks, strategy and confrontations.

Yet, three weeks into Bigg Boss 20, his contribution to the central drama has often felt quieter than expected.

His biggest advantage has been his position as captain. Gullu has managed to keep himself safe for two consecutive weeks, but that also means his game has not been tested in the same way as several other contestants.

Salman had already questioned Gullu during the previous Weekend Ka Vaar after he failed to take a strong stand while serving as sanchalak during the diss battle. Bigg Boss also took a dig at him over his relatively passive approach.

This week, Gullu became captaincy contender again, but even his leadership came under scrutiny. During the housemates' rose-based assessment of his captaincy, several contestants criticised him for being careless, people-pleasing and insufficiently strict. The messy-house footage shown by Bigg Boss further added to the criticism.

 

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Salman does not necessarily need to question Gullu simply because he has not been involved in every fight. Instead, the bigger question is whether he is using his position to actively shape the game.

If Gullu wants to establish himself beyond the captain's badge, this could be the week to ask him to take more decisions, drive tasks and take clear positions instead of relying on safety. 3. The entire house needs a wake-up call If there is one larger issue Salman should address, it is the overall energy of the house.

Week 4 has had individual incidents, but very few moments have managed to sustain momentum. The ration and captaincy task created some conflict, the Love-Yung argument added another layer to the group dynamics and Qazi's remarks sparked a confrontation with Kanika. Beyond these moments, however, the house has often felt quieter than it should at this stage of the season.

That is where a larger Weekend Ka Vaar intervention could help.

Kanika Mann, in particular, is an interesting case. She has had strong opinions on several issues and has not shied away from calling out behaviour she disagrees with. Her objection to Qazi's use of the word “lollipop” during their interaction was one example. However, she has also frequently chosen to discuss her frustrations with the cameras rather than directly with the person involved.

 

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The latest confrontation with Qazi showed that Kanika is capable of taking the issue directly to the person concerned. That side of her game could potentially be more impactful than repeatedly discussing the same concerns privately.

The same applies to the rest of the house. At this point, the contestants need to realise that simply reacting to one another is not enough. They need to actively play the game. 4. Qazi Touqeer needs to realise what is happening within his own group Qazi Touqeer has been involved in several conversations and confrontations this week, but there is another aspect of his game that could make for an interesting Weekend Ka Vaar discussion.

While Qazi appears to be comfortable with his group, some of the people around him have also been critical of him behind his back.

His recent clash with Kanika over the “lollipop” remark is already one issue Salman could revisit. Kanika had objected to the word earlier, and the matter eventually became a direct confrontation. But beyond that incident, Qazi could benefit from being made aware of how some of his own group members perceive him when he is not around.

The purpose would not simply be to create another fight. Instead, it could force Qazi to reassess his equations and understand whether the people he considers allies view the relationship in the same way.

That could also test how Qazi handles uncomfortable information when it comes directly from Salman rather than through another contestant. This Weekend Ka Vaar needs to shake things up Week 4 has not been completely devoid of drama. There have been nominations, ration cuts, captaincy politics, personal clashes and questions around individual gameplay. However, the bigger issue is that very few contestants have managed to consistently drive the narrative.

That makes this Weekend Ka Vaar particularly important. Love needs to examine whether keeping her group happy is coming at the cost of her individual game. Gullu needs to prove that his captaincy is more than a route to safety. Kanika needs to take her opinions directly to the people involved, while Qazi may need to look more closely at the equations within his own group.

If Salman addresses these issues, the focus can move beyond simply revisiting isolated fights and towards the larger question of how each contestant intends to play Bigg Boss 20 from here.

Also Read: Bigg Boss 20: Rhiti Tiwari evicted in surprise mid-week exit after captaincy task? Here’s what we know!



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After impressing audience with Queen (2014), Goodbye (2022) and Shaitaan (2024), Vikas Bahl is all set with his next directorial. The untitled film stars Jimmy Shergill, Siddhant Chaturvedi, Mona Singh and Alizeh Agnihotri in lead roles. The coming-of-age drama is set against a defining cultural moment, where a generation of immigrants found belonging, rebellion and a voice through music.

Set in Britain in the early 1990s, the film unfolds against the rise of the UK Punjabi music movement, a turbulent and exhilarating time when a generation growing up between cultures began turning up the volume from garages, backrooms, pirate radio stations and underground gigs.

It was a time when Punjabi dhol collided with basslines and when young Brown artists, with their unique sound, fought their way to music charts, making their whole community visible. Set against this cultural explosion, the film is a coming-of-age story about music, identity, family, friendship and belonging.

The film brings together an ensemble of Indian and international actors, musicians and performers to recreate a moment when an entire generation began to discover that perhaps belonging wasn't something they needed to ask permission for.

Also Read: Ayushmann Khurrana says influencers and YouTubers have changed the definition of stardom: “It used to be exclusive club earlier but not anymore”



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Mumbai is gearing up for a glittering global night, and Alia Bhatt will be right at the heart of it. The actor, producer and entrepreneur will be among the leading names from the worlds of film, music, sport and entertainment at The Earthshot Prize 2026 Awards Night, where she will present one of the five Earthshot Prize awards.

The ceremony will bring together 5,000 guests to celebrate people and organisations working on solutions to some of the world's most pressing environmental challenges. Alia will share the stage with Oscar-winning actor Rami Malek, cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar and British actress and musician Simone Ashley, among other presenters and special guests. The evening will be hosted by Karan Johar, with more names expected to join the celebrations.

For Alia, the night is a chance to applaud the people behind the ideas and solutions driving environmental action around the world. Speaking about the occasion, she said: "The Earthshot Prize is really about hope… but hope that comes with ideas, action and people who are finding new ways forward. That's what makes it so inspiring to be a part of. There are people across the world doing incredible work to protect and repair our planet, often in ways we may never have imagined. And to have Mumbai bring all these people together feels very special. I'm proud that India gets to be part of this moment, and I'm really looking forward to celebrating the people behind these solutions and the work they're doing for all of us."

The 2026 Awards Night will also mark the first time the event is streamed globally on Prime Video, with audiences in more than 240 countries and territories able to watch the celebration in more than 40 languages.

On the work front, Alia is preparing for the release of the highly anticipated Love & War, in which she stars alongside real-life husband Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal. Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the film will hit cinemas in January 2027. The actress also has Tumbbad 2 in the pipeline, where she will play a key role.

Speaking about The Earthshot Prize, founded by Prince William, it is the world's most prestigious environmental award, created to identify, back and celebrate groundbreaking environmental leadership. Built around five challenges, it aims to discover 50 winners over 10 years with the power to repair the planet.

Also Read: Daughter’s Day 2026: Alia Bhatt quips daughter Raha “bosses everybody around,” as she talks about women’s empowerment at the Mijwan fundraiser



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Yami Gautam, Adinath Kothare, Sushmita Mukherjee, Mita Vashisht, producers Nikhil Madhok, Aanand L Rai and Himanshu Sharma, director Balaji Mohan and others attended the trailer launch of Nayyi Navelli at a multiplex in Mumbai. The event marked Yami’s first major public appearance after receiving the National Award and, naturally, the actress was asked about how the recognition has impacted her.

When asked whether she now feels a greater sense of responsibility, Yami replied, “Yes, I do feel the sense of responsibility even more. I have always, as an actor, looked out for roles which interest me as an actor. But the audience in me is always looking out for something original. We don’t know what’s good or bad, but does it excite me to come on the set every day and spend every second and every cell of my mind in that moment or not? And not just within the periphery of being an artist, but also as a team member – just someone who’s in service of making films. That’s it.”

She added, “And I think the National Film Award is a really, really big honour. It’s also a true validation for any artist, across all languages and all formats, that you can receive in our country. And I take it with all humility.”

Yami further admitted, “I’ll be lying if I say that nothing has changed. You do feel that there’s an added responsibility in me as an artist or actor who’ll try to push even more, be even more diverse, work even harder and try to win and earn this love and respect that you all have literally bestowed upon me — someone who has come from a small town and reached till here. I still feel there’s a long, long way to go. There’s so much for me to learn.”

Another journalist asked Yami whether she was aiming for an Oscar next. She responded, “Aapke sapne sirf aapko aur aapke mann ko pata hona chahiye. Otherwise, I don’t like to share much. I believe in my work. When work is your expression, then you don’t need to say much.”

He also asked if she continues to be grounded even after winning a National Award. Yami said, “Pair zameen pe hi hai aur pair jitne zameen se jude rahenge, utna achha rahega. One thing I’ve learned in my life, and whenever I see great personalities around me, is that success will come and go. Today, you are doing so many films; who knows whether you’ll be doing so many films tomorrow? But one thing that is in your hands is your humility. That makes one more memorable than anything else, in my opinion.”

Nayyi Navelli releases in cinemas on October 16.

Also Read: Yami Gautam brings warmth, mystery and mischief as Mohini in Nayyi Navelli trailer, out now



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Veteran film producer Vashu Bhagnani has reportedly been hospitalised in London, according to news agency ANI. The reason for his hospitalisation has not been disclosed so far.

When contacted by ANI, Bhagnani asked to be left “alone”. No further details about his health condition or the duration of his hospital stay are currently available.

The development comes shortly after reports of Income Tax Department searches at multiple locations linked to Bhagnani, his daughter-in-law and actor Rakul Preet Singh, and Panorama Studios. Income Tax Department searches 12 locations The Income Tax Department reportedly carried out searches at 12 locations in Mumbai on September 28. The premises were linked to Vashu Bhagnani, Rakul Preet Singh and Kumar Mangat-led Panorama Studios.

According to reports, the searches were part of an inquiry into suspected financial irregularities involving film-related transactions. Investigators are reportedly examining allegations that funds may have been routed overseas under the guise of financing film projects.

Multiple teams were said to be examining documents, financial records and details of alleged overseas transactions. However, the Income Tax Department has not publicly disclosed its findings or confirmed that any tax violation has been established.

The searches also reportedly covered premises associated with Panorama Studios, which is led by producer Kumar Mangat Pathak. The nature and extent of the transactions under scrutiny have not been disclosed publicly. Vashu Bhagnani and Rakul Preet Singh yet to respond Reports of the Income Tax searches emerged on September 28, with multiple publications reporting that the department was examining financial records connected to the film industry.

Neither Vashu Bhagnani nor Rakul Preet Singh has publicly responded to the reports about the searches so far. The investigation is understood to be ongoing, and further details are awaited.

Importantly, the Income Tax searches and Bhagnani’s hospitalisation have been reported as developments occurring around the same time. There is currently no official information establishing a connection between the two.

For now, further information regarding Bhagnani’s health is awaited.

Also Read: Will the Vashu Bhagnani controversy benefit Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai? Trade experts comment; also open up on 50% offer on release day: “You are UNDERMINING a star’s potential”



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The controversy surrounding Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff’s Vimal Elaichi advertisement has moved to the next stage. Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe has confirmed that responses from all three actors have been received following the show-cause notices issued over the campaign.

Mundhe said that two of the actors had requested a hearing and that those hearings have now been completed. The FDA is subsequently proceeding with the matter. “Regarding those notices, responses from all three have come. Two of them had asked for a hearing. Their hearing was finished yesterday, and we are proceeding further,” Mundhe said.

#WATCH | Mumbai: On notices to Bollywood actors Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff over Vimal advertisement, Maharashtra FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe says, "Regarding those notices, responses from all three have come. Two of them had asked for a hearing. Their hearing… pic.twitter.com/0MV5yNtNua — ANI (@ANI) September 29, 2026

Why did the Maharashtra FDA issue notices? The Maharashtra FDA issued show-cause notices to Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff in August 2026 over their appearance in a Vimal Elaichi advertisement released in 2024.

The regulator alleged that the campaign could amount to surrogate advertising for Vimal Pan Masala. According to the FDA, the Vimal brand is primarily associated with pan masala, while Vimal Elaichi is presented as a cardamom mouth freshener.

The notices stated that the advertisement appeared to create an association between Vimal Elaichi and Vimal Pan Masala. The FDA cited the prohibition on the manufacture, storage, transportation, distribution and sale of the relevant prohibited pan masala products in Maharashtra.

The notices were issued on August 11 and gave the actors 15 days to respond. They were also asked to discontinue their participation in the campaign and remove related promotional material from their social media accounts and other platforms. What did the FDA seek from the actors? Apart from asking the actors to explain their involvement in the advertisement, the notices sought details related to their endorsement contracts and the due diligence carried out before associating with the campaign.

The regulator also sought clarification on whether Vimal Elaichi was an independent product or whether its branding and presentation created a link with Vimal Pan Masala.

The FDA's position is that the use of the Vimal branding and the manner in which the product is presented raise questions about indirect or surrogate promotion of a prohibited product. The agency has said the action is based on the applicable food safety and advertising regulations.

Also Read: Maharashtra FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe says, “Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn and Tiger Shroff not shielded by celebrity status in Vimal ad case”



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The jail doors are set to open once again, allowing new inmates to assemble. Following a landmark season that became a cultural phenomenon and a constant source of conversation both on and off screen, Netflix announces the return of Lock Upp: Sach Ya Sazaa for a second season. Produced by Ekta Kapoor, Shobha Kapoor and Manisha Sharma, and showrun by Malaya Pradhan, the new season promises to blur the lines between spectacle and vulnerability.

Centered on its distinctly Indian format, Lock Upp: Sach Ya Sazaa resonated with audiences worldwide, with its most shareable moments driving 5 billion+ views across social and word of mouth. The series demonstrated how a homegrown reality format can become a shared cultural experience: one that audiences don't simply watch, but participate in and carry with them.

Inside the jail in Season 1, contestants were pushed to own their truth, confronting the perceptions and narratives that had long surrounded them. Confessions became talking points, confrontations became debates, unexpected relationships became turning points, and raw moments became what audiences remembered most. What viewers witnessed was more than captivity and competition; it was celebrities taking ownership of their personal stories.

The upcoming season builds on that world, bringing audiences back inside the jail for another chapter where personalities collide, dynamics shift, and every secret has the potential to change the game.

Monika Shergill, VP- Content, Netflix India said: "Lock Upp: Sach Yaa Sazaa became appointment viewing overnight. Viewers invested, debated, and kept coming back. It captured the zeitgeist - not just as entertainment, but also as a space where celebrities talked about topics they rarely do, owned their choices and confronted past trauma. Ekta’s bold homegrown idea and the scaled adaptation on Netflix led to entertainment maxxing. Season 2 will be about recreating the same Netflix effect with many new surprises for our audiences."

Ekta Kapoor, Joint Managing Director, Balaji Telefilms & Creator of Lock Upp said: “Lock Upp: Sach Ya Sazaa on Netflix went far beyond what we imagined. The conversations, the inmates, and their most memorable moments continued to live with audiences even after the finale. That’s what makes the return of Lock Upp so exciting. The next season will take audiences back into a world they know, but with an entirely new set of stories, personalities, and surprises. And Farah and Riteish will continue to helm Lock Upp as the formidable jailer duo, bringing their own energy, unpredictability, and dynamic to the next chapter.”

As audiences wait to discover who will enter the jail this time, one thing is certain: the game, the inmates, and the tasks may change, but the conversations are about to begin all over again!

Also Read: Did Harshad Chopda accidentally reveal Lock Upp Season 2 winner? His comment on Shreya Kalra has fans convinced



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Ravi Kishan is currently enjoying a terrific phase. The actor, who also emerged as an Internet sensation, is riding high on the huge success of Mirzapur The Movie (2026) as well as his award-winning performance in Laapataa Ladies (2024), Maamla Legal Hai, etc. And now, the veteran actor has added yet another exciting project to his slate. Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learned that Ravi Kishan is all set to headline a high-concept spiritual film presented by Mahaveer Jain Films. Interestingly, this marks Ravi Kishan and Mahaveer Jain’s second collaboration after Naagzilla.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “This will be one of those rare Hindi films in which Ravi Kishan will be the sole leading man and will carry the film on his shoulders. The makers strongly felt that Ravi has the talent, popularity and personality needed for the part. More importantly, he fits the character perfectly. When the film was offered to him, Ravi was deeply impressed by the script and immediately agreed to come on board.”

The project also comes at an interesting time for Mahaveer Jain Films. The banner recently delivered the chartbuster title song of Yeh Prem Mol Liya and also announced RamBola, which will be directed by Vishal Chaturvedi of Hanuman Ansh fame. The production house is now joining forces with Ravi Kishan for what is being described as a soulful and highly conceptual spiritual film.

Revealing more about the premise, the source added, “It is a contemporary story and revolves around a man and his deep devotion to God. For the protagonist, God is not just the Supreme Being but also his closest friend. The film explores this beautiful relationship in a touching and entertaining manner.”

The source further said, “It is being designed as a clean, wholesome entertainer that families can watch together. While spirituality and devotion form the core of the film, it will also have humour, strong emotions and plenty of drama.”

Bollywood Hungama has also learned that the soulful devotional film is being written and directed by Amit Aarryan. It will be presented by Mahaveer Jain Films and produced by Mahaveer Jain Films – Mrighdeep Singh Lamba, Vinayak Kumar, Kavin Shah and Shikha K Ahluwalia – along with RatPack Stories’ Vijay Subramanium and Kshitij Mehta.

The source further revealed, “The film will go on floors in January. The title is yet to be locked and the makers are expected to finalize it soon, following which an official announcement will be made.”

Also Read: Sonal Chauhan talks about her age-gap romance with Ravi Kishan in Mirzapur: The Movie: “We did not try to show anywhere that there is no age gap”



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Tara Sutaria has often spoken about different aspects of her life in the public eye, but during a recent appearance on Fashionably Pernia, the actor opened up about something more personal: the way she and her sister were raised by their parents. Speaking about her childhood, Tara said her parents made a conscious effort to treat both daughters as equals and gave their opinions importance from an early age. According to the actor, being treated with that level of respect helped her develop confidence and a stronger sense of self.

“My mom and dad kind of always treated my sister and me like we were equals. We were kind of treated like adults when we were kids, and our opinions always mattered,” Tara said.

The actor believes that allowing children to feel heard can have a lasting impact on their confidence. For Tara, this was also reflected in the way disagreements were handled at home. “I think that gives a child so much confidence. We also enjoy arguing, which I think sometimes families feel… out of respect, kids might not feel comfortable having a healthy argument. Like our family loves to agree to disagree. And I love that about our family,” she shared.

For Tara, the ability to disagree openly became another part of growing up in an environment where her voice was valued. She suggested, “So I think that brings maturity, confidence and a certain... again, adds to your sense of self.” Tara Sutaria’s Work Front On the work front, Tara Sutaria was most recently seen in Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups, which released theatrically on August 26, 2026. Directed by Geetu Mohandas and led by Yash, the pan-India action film features Tara as Rebecca Almeida, a character with a vintage-inspired look and a romantic arc opposite Yash in the first half of the film.

The Kannada-English bilingual also stars Nayanthara, Kiara Advani, Huma Qureshi and Rukmini Vasanth. The film was released in multiple languages, including dubbed versions.

As of now, no new feature film has been officially announced as Tara’s next project.

Also Read: Tara Sutaria has always loved old Hollywood glamour: 7 looks to prove it!



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Veteran actor Anupam Kher has received a Certificate of Recognition in Toronto for his contribution to cinema, storytelling, education and mentorship. The actor shared the news on social media on September 29, expressing his gratitude for the honour and reflecting on how his work has reached audiences beyond India.

Kher shared a picture from the ceremony and revealed that he received the certificate from Ruby Sahota, Member of Parliament for Brampton North, Caledon. Sharing his reaction, the actor wrote, “CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION!❤️🇨🇦What a wonderful feeling to receive this Certificate of Recognition in Toronto from the Hon. Ruby Sahota, Member of Parliament for Brampton North—Caledon. I am touched by her words about my work in cinema, storytelling, education and mentorship.🙏😳😍”

He further spoke about what the recognition means to him as an actor who has spent decades working across films, television and theatre. Kher wrote, “An actor begins by hoping to connect with the person sitting in front of the stage or screen. To learn that the work has travelled across borders and touched people here in Canada means a great deal to me.”

The actor also thanked Sahota and the residents of Brampton North, Caledon, while acknowledging the people who have been part of his journey. He added, “Thank you, Ruby Sahota ji, and the residents of Brampton North, Caledon, for this generous honour. I accept it with gratitude and share it with everyone who has been part of my journey. Lots of love. Jai Ho!”

 

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Anupam Kher’s North American theatre tour The Toronto honour comes at a significant point in Kher’s ongoing North American theatre tour. The actor is currently travelling across the US and Canada with the Hindi musical play Jaane Pehchaane Anjaane, in which he stars opposite Swaroop Sampat.

The play recently marked its 25th show in Toronto on September 27. Kher described the milestone as an important moment for the production and said that Toronto had continued to give him “amazing love.” The play, written and directed by Gajendra Iyer, has been touring several North American cities.

On the film front, Kher has several projects lined up. He will next be seen in Sooraj Barjatya’s Yeh Prem Mol Liya, which stars Ayushmann Khurrana and Sharvari. The film is scheduled to release theatrically on November 27, 2026.

He is also part of Fauzi, starring Prabhas and directed by Hanu Raghavapudi. The film is currently listed for release on December 3, 2026.

Kher is set to reprise his popular character Kamal Khosla in Khosla Ka Ghosla 2. The sequel had been announced for release in August 2026, but its release was subsequently postponed and a new date has not been locked yet.

The actor has also announced his 555th film, although details about the project and its title have not yet been revealed.

Also Read: Anupam Kher advises Govinda amid rumoured affair: “Don’t allow your personal life or habits to overshadow your entire life”



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Namit Malhotra’s Ramayana, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, is among the most highly anticipated films of the year. With anticipation around the epic continuing to soar with every new reveal, the makers recently released the trailer and posters of the film, leaving everyone even more excited for its arrival. Now, as the cast and crew of the film gathered to meet American YouTuber MrBeast during his visit to India, the popular YouTuber had a great time interacting with them.

Taking to his social media, MrBeast shared a glimpse from the red carpet, where he is seen posing with the film’s cast and crew, including Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, Ravie Dubey, producer Namit Malhotra, and director Nitesh Tiwari. While tagging the cast and crew, he captioned the post: "Had a great time at the Ramayana red carpet :D"

Bringing to life one of the greatest tales ever told, Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana seeks to translate the epic’s scale, emotion and timeless characters into a cinematic spectacle. Ranbir Kapoor essays Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi plays Sita, Yash takes on the role of Ravana, Sunny Deol portrays Hanuman, while Ravi Dubey plays Lakshman. The film will be released in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam in India.

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios in association with 8-time Oscar-winning DNEG and Yash’s Monster Mind Creations, the two-part epic will release worldwide in IMAX, with Part 1 arriving in Diwali 2026 and Part 2 in Diwali 2027.

Also Read: SHOCKING: MrBeast’s Ramayana event leaves media FURIOUS; several journalists WALK OUT after 3½-hour delay



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Filmmaker Sanjay Gupta has questioned the continued use of smoking imagery in Bollywood film promotions, pointing to what he sees as a contrast between smoking visuals in posters and the anti-smoking messages audiences are shown in cinemas. On Sunday, September 27, Gupta shared a collage on X featuring Ranbir Kapoor in Animal, Ranveer Singh in Dhurandhar and Vicky Kaushal in Love & War. The three posters showed the actors with cigarettes as part of their respective character looks.

Sharing the images, Gupta questioned the purpose of the anti-smoking messages that audiences encounter while watching films in theatres. He wrote, "What is the point of those unpleasant anti-smoking reels we have to endure before and during films when these are the posters of the films (sic)?"

The filmmaker's post quickly prompted a discussion on X, with users debating whether smoking continues to be presented as a part of a leading man's screen image despite the presence of tobacco-related health warnings.

What is the point of those unpleasant anti smoking reels we have to endure before and during films when these are the posters of the films? pic.twitter.com/oQSkEWkTZl — Sanjay Gupta (@_SanjayGupta) September 27, 2026

Sanjay Gupta responds to criticism over Kaante One user brought up Gupta's 2002 film Kaante while responding to his post. The user pointed to the film's song ‘Rama Re,’ which contains a reference to cigarette smoke, and questioned the filmmaker's stance on smoking imagery. Gupta responded by highlighting the difference between the regulatory environment then and now. "There were no non smoking ads then you genius (sic)," he wrote.

There were no non smoking ads then you genius. — Sanjay Gupta (@_SanjayGupta) September 27, 2026

Debate comes amid updated film certification guidelines Gupta's comments also come at a time when India's rules around the depiction of substance use in films are undergoing renewed attention. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting published revised guidelines for the certification of films for public exhibition on September 18, 2026.

The updated certification framework includes provisions concerning the depiction of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, alongside existing areas such as violence, sensitive subjects and content that could affect India's international relations. Recent reports on the revised guidelines state that films depicting the consumption, use or trafficking of illicit narcotics are required to carry an anti-drug warning on screen.

Also Read: Sanjay Gupta slams IMDb after Satluj’s 9.5 rating disappears: “This proves how bogus they are”



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After months of spectacular performances, and unforgettable dance moments to the theme of India Wala Dance on Sony Entertainment Television’s India’s Best Dancer Season 5, Raipur’s Ritesh Pal, together with choreographer Pratik Utekar, crowned the winners of the season. From the very beginning, Ritesh’s journey stood out for his passion, versatility and determination. He consistently pushed his boundaries, won the coveted Battle trophy thrice this season, and earned appreciation for his powerful and well curated dance performances. The journey also challenged him to step beyond his comfort zone, explore different dance forms and showcase his versatility as a performer. The duo together with their exceptional talent, consistency and dedication, emerged victorious, lifting the coveted trophy after a thrilling Grand Finale.

Ritesh Pal’s journey culminated in a spectacular finale, where he and his choreographer Pratik, competed against fellow finalists Dipali Borkar, Prathamesh Mane, Anshika Dhara and Geetanjali Marwaha. Showcasing their versatility across dance forms, Ritesh and Pratik continued to impress the judges and audiences through the season, ultimately earning the title of India’s Best Dancer Season 5.

The Grand Finale was truly a star-studded affair with the presence of the judges Karisma Kapoor, Jaaved Jaaferi, Geeta Kapur and Terence Lewis, who have mentored and guided the contestants throughout their journey this season. Adding to the glitz and glamour were actors Jackie Shroff, along with special guests Tamannaah Bhatia and Sidharth Malhotra, who joined the judges and finalists in marking the grand culmination of an unforgettable season.

Ritesh Pal, Winner of India’s Best Dancer Season 5, said, “Dance has always been my passion, and winning India’s Best Dancer Season 5 is a dream come true. I feel truly fortunate to be a part of this journey with Sony Entertainment Television. India Wala Dance pushed me beyond my comfort zone and helped me grow as a performer. I am grateful to Karisma Ma’am, Jaaved Sir, Geeta Maa and Terence Sir for their guidance, with Geeta Maa holding a special place in my heart. A special thank you to my choreographer Pratik Utekar Sir for believing in me and transforming my journey. I have learnt so much from my fellow contestants. This trophy makes every challenge worthwhile.”

Choreographer Pratik Utekar said, “Winning India’s Best Dancer Season 5 with my shishya Ritesh Pal is an incredibly proud and emotional moment. I am so happy to see his growth, and Ritesh has always trusted my vision and wholeheartedly accepted my guidance. Since we both come from a contemporary dance background, India Wala Dance challenged us to step out of our comfort zone and explore new dance forms. We overcame every challenge together, and lifting this trophy with him makes this victory truly special.”

With Raipur’s Ritesh Pal taking home the coveted trophy, India’s Best Dancer Season 5 concludes another memorable chapter, celebrating India's finest dancing talent and bringing together powerful performances, diverse dance forms, and inspiring journeys on one stage.

Also Read: India’s Best Dancer Season 5: Karisma Kapoor reveals her “unusual” connection to the Fiza song ‘Mehboob Mere’



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Actor Kubbra Sait has spoken about women’s safety in India in a video shared on social media, questioning why conversations about safety often place responsibility on women rather than addressing the behaviour that makes them unsafe. In the video, Kubbra begins by saying, “Safety is a place called Narnia. Yes, it’s fictional,” before referring to incidents involving girls and women in everyday situations. She points out that age, location, time or circumstance does not necessarily guarantee safety.

The actor then lists some of the precautions women are routinely advised to take. “Cover up. Don’t go out at night. Don’t hang out with boys. Share your location. Carry pepper spray. Be careful. How much more careful are we supposed to be?” she asks. Kubbra then shifts the focus towards what boys and men are taught about consent and boundaries. “When are these instructions reaching the boys?” she asks, before listing the behaviours that need to be addressed. “Don’t stalk her. Don’t follow her. Don’t threaten her. Don’t punish her for rejecting you. Take no for an answer,” she says.

Kubbra Sait questions "Boys-Will-Be-Boys" approach

Using satire, Kubbra also suggests measures such as a “reformation camp, consent camp, ego detox, patriarchy de-addiction centre” for boys, adding, “Because ‘boys will be boys’ — this strategy of parenting is not working.” She further addresses the meaning of feminism, saying, “Feminism is nothing but the simple idea that women are people.”

Kubbra connects the argument to everyday activities that women should be able to undertake without fear, including studying, travelling, meeting friends, buying stationery or simply being in a public space.

 

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  A post shared by Kubbra Sait (@kubbrasait)

The actor’s video ultimately questions the expectation that women should continually alter their behaviour and routines to avoid becoming victims of harassment or violence. Her message instead calls for greater focus on the people responsible for such behaviour and on how boys are taught to understand consent, boundaries and respect.

Kubbra concludes by questioning how much women are expected to change their lives before society also begins asking those who make them unsafe to change their behaviour.

Also Read: Kubbra Sait visits Chennai Snake Park, discusses cruelty towards snakes during Nag Panchami in new vlog



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Ramayana, produced by Namit Malhotra and directed by Nitesh Tiwari, is one of the most anticipated films of 2026. With every asset, from its teaser to its trailer, the excitement surrounding the film has been continuously soaring. Now, amidst the rising exhilaration, the makers have dropped an endearing poster featuring Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi and Ravie Dubey as Lord Ram, Mata Sita and Lakshman, respectively.

In the poster of Ramayana, Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram looks composed, calm and courageous, carrying an aura of nobility with effortless grace. On the other hand, Sai Pallavi radiates grace, innocence, devotion, patience and fearlessness as Mata Sita, while Ravie Dubey as Lakshman stands as a true embodiment of loyalty, love and protectiveness. The poster holds immense significance as it brings Lord Ram, Mata Sita and Lakshman together in a single frame, making it a truly special moment in this epic.

The poster further fuels the excitement to witness Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi and Ravie Dubey bring these iconic characters to life on the big screen. In many ways, the casting has been one of the most crucial aspects of the project, and this poster says it all.

 

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  A post shared by The World Of Ramayana (@worldoframayana)

Bringing to life one of the greatest tales ever told, Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana seeks to translate the epic’s scale, emotion and timeless characters into a cinematic spectacle. Ranbir Kapoor essays Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi plays Sita, Yash takes on the role of Ravana, Sunny Deol portrays Hanuman, while Ravie Dubey plays Lakshman. The film will be released in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam in India.

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios in association with 8-time Oscar-winning DNEG and Yash’s Monster Mind Creations, the two-part epic will release worldwide in IMAX, with Part 1 arriving in Diwali 2026 and Part 2 in Diwali 2027.

Also Read: VIRAL moment: Ranbir Kapoor teaches MrBeast to say “Jai Shri Ram”; Namit Malhotra explains Ramayana’s bow challenge to MrBeast with The Odyssey reference



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