Bollywood’s stylish Nawab, Saif Ali Khan, is bringing his royal charm to your kitchen! The actor has just been announced as the brand ambassador of JK Spices & Food Products, popularly known as JK Masale — a household name trusted by Indians for over 67 years.

The collaboration feels like a match made in heaven. On one side, Saif Ali Khan with his royal Pataudi lineage, effortless sophistication, and star power spanning decades. On the other, JK Masale, a brand that has seasoned Indian kitchens with authenticity, purity, and legacy since 1958. Together, they promise to spice things up in more ways than one, revealed the brand.

Talking about why Saif was the perfect fit, the brand shared a statement saying, “In Saif Ali Khan, we see a reflection of our own journey. His royal lineage, refined persona, and the trust he commands make him a natural fit for a brand like ours. This partnership goes beyond endorsement – it is a union of legacies, where tradition and modern taste come together.”

The timing of this announcement couldn’t be better. JK Masale is entering a big growth phase, with a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility coming up in Jaipur. From advanced grinding units to cold storage and precision packaging, the brand is blending technology with tradition to ensure the purity and consistency it has always stood for.

The upcoming campaign starring Saif Ali Khan will showcase the perfect mix of heritage, authenticity, and modern sophistication. While highlighting the brand’s six-decade legacy and Saif’s cultural stature, it will also tap into his contemporary, stylish appeal that resonates strongly with today’s generation.

With a strong presence in India and a global footprint that stretches across the UK, South Korea, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Thailand, Bhutan, and more, JK Masale is clearly looking at the bigger picture. And Saif’s involvement only amplifies that ambition.

For fans, the association feels seamless. Over his three-decade career with unforgettable performances in films like Dil Chahta Hai, Omkara, and the game-changing Sacred Games, Saif has always managed to balance royalty with relatability, elegance with edge. JK Masale, much like Saif, stands at that sweet spot between tradition and modernity.

With the new campaign rolling out soon, expect nothing less than a sizzling celebration of flavor, legacy, and star power.

Also Read: Shriya Pilgaonkar joins Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan in Priyadarshan’s thriller Haiwaan

Renowned fashion designer Manish Malhotra is all set to make his debut as a film producer with Gustaakh Ishq, a theatrical production scheduled for release in November 2025. Produced under his banner, Stage5 Production, the film promises a daring and emotionally layered love story, featuring an ensemble cast including Naseeruddin Shah, Vijay Varma, Fatima Sana Shaikh, and Sharib Hashmi.

Set against the atmospheric by lanes of Purani Dilli and the fading kothis of Punjab, Gustaakh Ishq explores passion, longing, and unspoken desire, weaving together the textures of architecture and music to tell a story that resonates with both nostalgia and contemporary sensibilities.

Directed by Vibhu Puri, the film brings together some of Bollywood’s most creative talents. Music is composed by Vishal Bhardwaj, with lyrics by Gulzar, sound design by Resul Pookutty, and cinematography by Manush Nandan. The combination of these visionary artists, along with Malhotra’s cinematic sensibilities, promises a visually stunning and emotionally evocative experience.

Speaking about his entry into film production, Manish Malhotra said, “My love for cinema began in childhood. The silver screen was my doorway to the world… watching colours, clothes, music, and lifestyles unfold in cinema halls shaped my imagination and inspired me to become a designer. Today, stepping into film production feels like my way of giving back to the medium that has given me everything. With Stage5 Production, the journey ahead is about embracing the unexpected; through stories, genres, and films that continue to surprise and inspire.”

Produced alongside his brother Dinesh Malhotra, Gustaakh Ishq marks a new chapter in Malhotra’s creative journey. While the designer has long been celebrated for bringing cinematic grandeur to fashion, this venture allows him to directly contribute to storytelling on the big screen.

With its evocative setting, star-studded cast, and a team of acclaimed filmmakers and technicians, Gustaakh Ishq is already generating excitement among audiences eager for a love story that blends passion, elegance, and cinematic artistry. The film will hit theatres in November 2025, offering a cinematic experience that celebrates the magic of classic storytelling while exploring modern emotional landscapes.

Also Read: Vicky Kaushal to Ranbir Kapoor to Vijay Varma: B-Town men setting ethnic fashion goals this Ganesh Chaturthi

The Madras High Court has stepped into a fresh legal battle involving late Bollywood icon Sridevi’s property on Chennai’s East Coast Road (ECR), directing the Tambaram tahsildar to make a clear decision within four weeks. The case was brought forward by film producer Boney Kapoor, who has accused three individuals of fraudulently staking ownership over land his wife had purchased back in 1988.

Justice N. Anand Venkatesh, who presided over the matter, issued the directive after hearing Kapoor’s plea to cancel a legal heirship certificate obtained by the claimants in 2005. According to Kapoor, the document was wrongly issued in their favour and is now being used to assert rights over Sridevi’s farmhouse property.

The contested land has deep roots, tracing back to its original owner, M.C. Sambanda Mudaliar. His family had divided the property among three sons and two daughters through a mutual arrangement in 1960. Relying on this arrangement, Sridevi lawfully purchased the land on April 19, 1988, through a registered deed. Since then, the actor and her family had full possession and use of the property, which functioned as a farmhouse retreat.

Trouble surfaced years later when three individuals—claiming to be the second wife and children of one of Mudaliar’s sons—suddenly began asserting inheritance rights. To support their claims, they secured a legal heirship certificate from the Tambaram tahsildar in 2005.

Kapoor, however, has strongly contested the validity of their claims on multiple grounds. His petition argued that the tahsildar had no jurisdiction to issue such a certificate, since the original landowner was a resident of Mylapore. More importantly, he asserted that the so-called second marriage was not legally valid, making the trio ineligible as legal heirs under the Hindu Succession Act.

Presenting all necessary evidence to demonstrate that the purchase was genuine and duly registered, Kapoor urged the court to recognize the certificate as fraudulent. Justice Venkatesh, after considering both sides, instructed the Tambaram tahsildar to examine the matter thoroughly and deliver a conclusive decision within the stipulated four-week period.

As the battle unfolds, the dispute has drawn attention not only because of the legal complexities but also due to the emotional weight it carries—touching upon the legacy of one of Indian cinema’s most beloved stars, whose untimely passing in 2018 still resonates with millions of fans.

Also Read: Boney Kapoor shares heartfelt birthday tributes to late Sridevi; spark emotional wave among fans

In June 2025, talented director Siddharth P Malhotra spoke exclusively with Bollywood Hungama on the first anniversary of the controversial and highly acclaimed 2024 film Maharaj. The film marked the debut of Junaid Khan. During the same interaction, the filmmaker spoke about his bond with the young actor and a lot more.

When asked if he’s in touch with Junaid Khan and if he got a chance to watch his second film, Loveyapa (2025), co-starring Khushi Kapoor, Siddharth P Malhotra said, “I saw Loveyapa and I didn’t like the film. I had issues with it.”

He continued, “And yes, I am in touch with Junaid. We speak every 4-5 days. I launched him. He’s like my own kid and I am protective about him. And I told him that I didn’t like Loveyapa for various reasons, which I don’t want to speak about. But the film didn’t work for me.”

Siddharth P Malhotra further said, “I am sure that people will appreciate his next film. I have seen it and I am confident about it.” Junaid Khan’s next is titled Ek Din and co-stars popular South actress Sai Pallavi. It is scheduled to release on November 7, 2025.

Siddharth P Malhotra then shared a hilarious episode that took place during the industry screening of Maharaj at Yash Raj Films (YRF) Studios, “The security guard didn’t recognize Junaid as he had come in an auto rickshaw. He called me and said, ‘They are not taking me inside’. I said, ‘Bolunko ki tu hero hai’! He explained that since he was in the auto, they were not convinced. We had to come down to take him inside (laughs)!”

Siddharth shared more on this screening, “It was attended by a lot of people of the industry like Javed Akhtar, Shabana Azmi etc. We were excited. At 11 pm, we were informed that the film was not coming the next day (due to legal issues). Hence, after the screening, we had to tell everyone, ‘Even if you guys have liked the film, you cannot write anything about it’. You make films for appreciation and validation. At that screening, I got the validation, that too from the greats, but you have to tell them, ‘Please don’t tell the world about it’! The trial then ran for 5 more days. It was heartbreaking.”

Also Read: 1 Year of Maharaj EXCLUSIVE: Siddharth P Malhotra shares NEVER-BEFORE-SEEN BTS images; reveals, “We had so many plans for Aamir Khan’s son’s debut and NOTHING happened…We PANICKED and self-censored 15 minutes…magnanimous of Jaideep Ahlawat who understood reason behind it”

Bollywood actor Tina Ahuja has finally responded to the persistent rumours surrounding her parents, Govinda and Sunita Ahuja, and their alleged divorce. In an interview with Hindustan Times, Tina dismissed the reports outright, calling them baseless and untrue.

“It’s all rumours. I don’t pay attention to these rumours,” Tina said firmly. She further added, “I feel blessed to have a beautiful family, and I’m truly grateful for all the love, concern and support we’ve been receiving from the media, fans, and loved ones.”

The clarification comes after weeks of speculation that began when Sunita Ahuja shared an emotional vlog online. The video sparked chatter about potential trouble in the couple’s marriage. This was followed by claims that Govinda and Sunita were living separately, and further fuel was added when some reports suggested that Tina herself had filed for divorce at the Family Court in Mumbai.

Adding to the confusion, Govinda’s manager had earlier told media outlets that a divorce petition was indeed filed by Sunita months ago. However, he also clarified that the two have since decided to give their marriage another chance. In fact, the manager confirmed that the family is planning to come together for the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, hosting their traditional Ganpati pooja at home as always.

For fans of Govinda, the veteran actor known for his evergreen comedy and dance moves, the rumours had come as a shock. His decades-long marriage with Sunita has often been cited as one of the stronger partnerships in Bollywood. While disagreements between the couple have made headlines in the past, both have largely maintained a united front in public.

Tina’s strong dismissal of the rumours signals that the family is working towards moving past the speculation. With the festive season around the corner and the Ganpati celebrations being a major family tradition, the Ahujas seem determined to show that they are very much together.

As of now, neither Govinda nor Sunita have issued a direct statement. But with Tina’s comments and the upcoming family celebration, it seems the divorce chatter has been firmly put to rest—at least for now.

Also Read: Sunita Ahuja criticises Govinda for staying at home, blames his company, Uski zindagi barbaad kyun kar rahe ho

The much-awaited Bigg Boss 19 premiered on Monday evening, August 24, with 16 diverse contestants stepping into the iconic house. Staying true to its tradition of mixing glamour, controversy, and talent, this year’s lineup features television heartthrobs, social media stars, models, actors, and even a celebrated musician.

Leading the list is Ashnoor Kaur, who recently made headlines with a nostalgic reel from Saath Nibhana Saathiya. Joining her is Gaurav Khanna, the much-loved Anuj from Anupamaa, bringing his massive TV fan base into the show. Popular faces like Basheer Ali (Kundali Bhagya) and Abhishek Bajaj (Student of The Year 2, Babli Bouncer) add more television and film charisma to the house.

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The glamour quotient soars higher with models and pageant winners like Nehal Chudasama (Miss Diva Universe 2018), Tanya Mittal (pageant queen turned entrepreneur), and international model-actress Natalia Janoszek. Farhana Bhatt and Neelam Giri, a known Bhojpuri dancer-actress, also promise to keep audiences hooked with their screen presence.

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From the world of digital entertainment, the lineup features dance influencer Awez Darbar and beauty influencer Nagma Mirajkar, who entered together—fanning long-standing relationship rumors. YouTube personality Mridul Tiwari, selected by audiences, also made his entry, already setting the stage for fiery exchanges. Pranit More, a well-known stand-up comedian, adds comic relief to the otherwise tense environment.

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Veteran actress Kunickaa Sadanand, known for her work alongside Bollywood superstars including Salman Khan, brings experience and strong opinions to the show. Bollywood’s music circuit is represented by Amaal Malik, the popular singer-composer and nephew of Anu Malik, while writer-actor Zeishan Quadri (Gangs of Wasseypur) adds a cinematic edge to the lineup.

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True to the Bigg Boss brand, drama erupted almost immediately. Reports suggest that Kunickaa and Mridul have already exchanged sharp words, with tensions simmering among the housemates. If insider buzz is to be believed, the makers are already planning the season’s first twist—an elimination based on the “least interesting personality,” marking a high-stakes beginning for the contestants.

With such a mix of talent, glamour, and controversy, Bigg Boss 19 promises to be a season full of fireworks, alliances, and unexpected drama.

Also Read: Bigg Boss 19 Teaser: Salman Khan promises a house ruled by contestants and “too much fun”

Actor Sonnalli Seygall, who welcomed her first child, a baby girl, in November last year. She shared a heartfelt video on Instagram, reflecting on her pregnancy journey and the profound changes that motherhood has brought into her life.

Posting the candid clip, the Pyaar Ka Punchnama actor wrote, “So I’ve been wanting to talk about this since a while. It’s important that we do, because far too much emphasis is being put on new mothers ‘Bouncing Back’”

Seygall spoke about her deep connection with fitness before pregnancy, describing it as an integral part of her identity. “Before pregnancy, I was so connected to my body, fit, active, and proud of the way I looked and felt. Fitness was not just something I did, it was part of who I was,” she shared.

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However, she admitted that postpartum life brought significant changes. “The toned thighs I once had now carry cellulite, my abs softened into a little mommy pooch, and my hips feel different, almost as if they’ve permanently widened to carry the weight of motherhood,” she revealed in the post.

Instead of resisting these changes, Seygall expressed gratitude and acceptance. “And yet, instead of resisting these changes, I’ve learned to embrace and love my body even more, with deep gratitude for everything it has carried me through, especially giving birth. Maybe I don’t know if I’ll ever go back to my old body, and that’s okay, because this one tells a far more powerful story,” she wrote.

Concluding with a message of solidarity, she encouraged other mothers: “To every new mom reading this, you’re not alone.”

Also Read : Sonnalli Seygall just revealed her Postpartum diet, and it is wholesome for the soul – from jeera water to rasgullas and cake

Regena Cassandrra, the leading lady of Madhur Bhandarkar’s upcoming mystery thriller The Wives, has successfully wrapped the first schedule of the film’s shoot in Mumbai. The actress recently hinted at the schedule wrap on social media, sharing a candid behind-the-scenes picture from the set, dressed in a sleek black outfit while holding a clapperboard that read ‘The Wives'.

The Wives aims to dive deep into the glamorous yet turbulent world of Bollywood star wives, peeling back the curtain on their hidden realities, high-profile scandals, and the extravagant lifestyles they lead. Joining Regena in this intriguing ensemble cast are Mouni Roy, Sonali Kulkarni, and other notable names, making the project one of the most anticipated in Bhandarkar’s filmography.

Known for his sharp and concept-driven storytelling, Madhur Bhandarkar once again is expected to bring his signature touch to The Wives, blending drama, suspense, and realism into a compelling narrative. With the first schedule now completed, excitement builds around how the story will unfold on screen. The film’s next schedule is expected to begin soon, keeping the audience eager for its grand reveal.

Regena was last seen earlier this year in the Sunny Deol starrer action thriller Jaat. The film saw her play the wife of the antagonist Randeep Hooda.

Also Read: Rahul Bhat hosts lavish Kashmiri dinner for The Wives team; director Madhur Bhandarkar attends

Filmmaker Shoojit Sircar’s Madras Café completed 12 years yesterday. Starring John Abraham and Nargis Fakhri, the movie was inspired from the assassination of former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. On the film’s anniversary, Sircar looked back at it in an interview with us.

Madras Café is your most political film?

Madras Cafe was a very personal film, as it was very shocking for me when that incident happened where Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated. I was in Delhi and it shook me. Before Rajiv Gandhi, even Indira Gandhi was also assassinated. So, you know, I was in Delhi during both the tragic events. This happened and, you know, it completely shook me, especially Rajiv Gandhi's assassination. Since then, I was always reading newspapers and articles about and following what was happening in this South Asian part of the world between Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu and the central government here in India and who all were interested in this particular politics, geopolitics, you can say.

Madras Café still feels urgent and unrehearsed?

It's a film where I didn't know where I was heading. One, because it was a very, very difficult subject and it involved real people, real names, which was difficult at that time because I didn't have a backing of any book or something because it was purely based on newspaper articles that I have read. And basically political essays from that time.

So, how did you solve this crisis of substantiation?

So, me and Somnath Dey and Shubhendu Bhattacharya and two of my dear friends again from Chennai, Sadapathy and Mahesh, we all sat together and started working on this script for a long time. Because it was in my head and I could just pour to them whatever I had in my head. And then the script actually, the politics of it actually came from Somnath Dey and Shubhendu. Of course, then came Juhi also to write the dialogues of the film because we had to crack the dialogues in Hindi and somewhere felt not to feel like, you know, feel very natural how R & AW operated at that time and on field.

R & AW was not part of our cinematic universe back then

Madras Cafe is one of those first films which involved RAW, you know, and also the special forces and how they played the world politics. I mean, it was a path-breaking film 12 years back, but when I still watch it, it still feels quite pioneering. The reason being, when the assassination happened and then we started researching about it, we found there were many, many loopholes. Who all were involved? There were loopholes in that. Was there a foreign hand? Was there, you know, the Tamil, the revolutionary force, the LTTE? So, there were many articles written, many kinds of things happened, many which were unexplained. So, being a filmmaker, taking a very central line and not get opinionated about it and present it with as much authenticity as possible, that's what I tried. That was a huge challenge.

At one point, you decided to shelve Madras Café?

Yes, at some point, I thought of not making it, you know. While we were almost halfway through the film, I said, no, it's a very difficult film. I won't be able to pull it through. But then, it was an everyday affair. We had to recreate the entire Sri Lankan Jaffna in Kerala, in Tamil Nadu and the RAW part of it we shot it in Delhi.

This remains one of John Abraham’s most understated performances

I still think that it was John's best. John Abraham was all there; he was also aware of this scenario because he was also growing up at that time when he heard this.

A tough film to make?

The most important also fact was Ronnie coming in and backing me, Ronnie Lahiri, my producer friend. It really takes guts to produce this kind of film at that time. But we both wish we could have named real people but we had to take a lot of clearances and, you know, what you call the rights and all that was too much of a headache. So, we had to, use fake names. So, yeah, I just regret that sometimes. I wish I had used real names.

Also Read: Shoojit Sircar on Abhishek Bachchan’s Melbourne win: “He melted into the character completely”

Kalyanji and Anandji are considered a legendary duo when it comes to Hindi film music. On the 25th death anniversary of Kalyanji, whose full name was Kalyanji Virji Shah, Lalit Pandit got talking about him and Anandji’s remarkable work.

Where would you place Kalyanji-Anandji in Hindi film music? Kalyanji and Anandji were extremely talented brothers, who worked together successfully for more than three decades in the Indian film industry. They had multiple qualities along with being brilliant composers and that is the reason they worked and survived so long in the industry.

What made the duo so durable? Their greatest achievement I feel is how they did their transition in music from one generation to the other. Not many composers from their generation did that successfully, except R D burman. Right from the music of Saraswatichandra to Don and Muqaddar Ka Sikandar and many more, they were able to adapt and change their music to the next decade and that was indeed amazing.

How did they create their never-ending repertoire of hit songs? Both Kalyanji and Anand ji had an everyday jamming music room where recordings would be planned and their favourite lyricists like Indivar, Anjaan and Gulshan Bawra would be there every day from morning to night. They were together a very formidable team which was indeed one of the reasons why they worked successfully for so long. But there was someone else.

The two brothers had a third lesser known younger brother Babla. An extremely talented rhythm composer and a rhythm player himself. He assisted his elder brothers Kalyanji and Anandji and did some brilliant arrangements in their songs. It is a known fact that Babla composed the super hit song of Don, ‘Khaike paan Banaraswala’, which was written by Anjaan Sahab and so brilliantly sung by Kishore Kumar.

The most remarkable aspect of K-A’s career was it longevity I agree. Kalyanji-Anandji started their musical journey from the onset of the 1960s and went on to work till the 90s. One of the most amazing part and a quality they possessed was they were always signed repeatedly by their producers and directors to do music. Producers like Manoj Kumar, Feroz Khan, Prakash Mehra and many more loved working with Kalyanji-Anandji.

Why? This was perhaps not only because of their beautiful music but also because of the wonderful nature of K-A. Both were extremely humorous and people enjoyed their music sessions which would generally go on all day. They were a full package. Masti and music and extreme knowledge of music, of course. These combinations of qualities made them survive successfully in the music industry for so long.

They were also very adaptive That’s right. Their style also changed with times. What with the most modern songs of its time – ‘Aap jaisa koi’ and ‘Laila main Laila’ for Qurbani … Would you believe that these were the same composers who composed ‘Chandan sa badan’ and ‘Main to ek khwaab hoon’! It’s hard to believe this but this is what KA were.

Which are your favourite K-A soundtracks? Personally, I have loved their entire sureela music of many films. Their combination with Anand Bakshi and Mukeshji was unbelievable. Songs of Himalay Ki God Mein, Saraswatichandra, Blackmail, Don, and hundreds more. It was Kalyanji-Anandji who gave Anand Bakshi the very first chance to write for their film Jab Jab Phool Khile. The songs were extremely memorable and so well-written by Bakshi Saab – ‘Ek tha gul aur ek thi bul bul’, ‘Yahan main ajnabi hoon’ are so beautifully written.

They indeed have given a treasure of music to their audience and this treasure will be cherished for ever. There was a particular song in which Shashi Kapoor was challenged by KA to shoot the entire song with his hand behind his back. Shashi Kapoor had done this song accepting the challenge.

Tell me about your personal connection with the duo? My sister Sulakshana and my father used to regularly visit Kalyanji and Anandji in their music room in the late 60s and 70s. Sulakshana Didi was a trained singer and both Kalyanji and Anandji loved her singing. In later years when Sulakshana Didi became a very successful heroine, she would sing many songs of Kalyanji and Anand ji. I remember their recordings of her song from a film called Sankoch with Jeetendraji and Sulakshanaji sang a beautiful song composed by Anandji Bandhi – ‘Re kahe preet’. The song was a huge hit at the time.

Then in her very first film Uljhan with Sanjeev Kumar, she sang her songs in the film for Kalyanji Anandji. The film had amazing music by the brothers. She went on to sing many songs and I had the wonderful opportunity as a child to witness these wonderful recordings and see they great composers at their work. Later in their career, Kalyanji’s son Viju Shah joined the team and he added a lot in changing the sound of the composers. Viju later went on to become an independent composer, but always even back then he was the backbone of the aging duo. In films like Himalay Ki God Mein we notice in the credits the names of Laxmikant Pyarelal ji as assistants in arranging the music for K-A.

They promoted a lot of new talent They had the knack of looking for young talent and recognising genuine talent. It was K-A, who gave the first chance to Alka Yagnik and Sadhana Sargam and many others. Their home and music room always welcomed struggling singers and writers. A quality not many composers had. Their music will live on and so will their name. They worked successfully at a time when there were many brilliant composers existing and who were doing amazing work, like Shankar-Jaikishan, Laxmikant Pyarelal, SD and RD Burman. All were at their best! And so were Kalyanji Anandji.

Bollywood actress Mouni Roy recently confronted a troll who targeted her with a harsh comment, “Truth is bitter! You gotta gulp that down your throat, no matter who you are! Your surgeries have put you in a very poor spot. Since you are a public figure, you gotta accept what comes with it! The good and mostly the bad! You should have chosen a better surgeon!” This jab referenced persistent rumours that Mouni had undergone corrective cosmetic surgery—a claim she has repeatedly denied in interviews.

Instead of letting the comment slide, Mouni responded firmly, writing back: “Do something worthwhile with your life. Be on socials to give away love and speak about your work. Not worth it otherwise. If you know, you know.” Her measured yet powerful reply resonated with many on social media.

The troll’s remark was swiftly removed by the user, but not before screenshots circulated across various platforms. Mouni’s followers rallied behind her, offering support in droves.

This isn’t the first time Mouni has addressed body-shaming and plastic surgery speculations. In an earlier exchange, when confronted with questions about cosmetic procedures, she dismissed the negativity, “Kuch nahin. Dekhti hee nahi. Let everyone do their job… I do not pay attention to such remarks. If you hide behind a screen to troll others and if you find happiness in that so be it.”

Her recent response follows a pattern of rejecting baseless scrutiny and focusing instead on her work—from her impactful presence in television to her recent appearances in films and web shows.

In a broader conversation about celebrity bashing, Mouni, alongside Palak Tiwari, acknowledged the toxic dynamics of social media culture, remarking that “celebrity bashing sells” and lamenting the intense, often relentless negativity public figures endure online.

Also Read : Mouni Roy opens up about being typecast throughout her career; says, “I’ve always dealt with, and it doesn’t really bother me”

Reality TV star and actress Nikki Tamboli turned a year older and chose to ring in her special day in one of the most glamorous ways possible — in Dubai with model-actor Arbaz Patel by her side. The actress, who has always been a favorite on social media, treated fans to glimpses of her birthday celebrations, and it’s safe to say she made it nothing short of picture-perfect.

Nikki dropped a series of moments from her day that captured the luxury and romance of her getaway. One of the highlights was her time with Arbaz at an infinity pool overlooking the breathtaking Palm Jumeirah, where she looked radiant in a chic printed bikini. Adding to the special touch was a beautifully arranged platter of exotic fruits with the message ‘Happy Birthday Nikki’ — a sweet surprise that she and Arbaz enjoyed together.

Fans were quick to shower love in the comments section, wishing Nikki on her big day while also gushing over the couple’s adorable chemistry. With Nikki flashing her signature smile and Arbaz making sure the day was memorable, the duo once again gave their followers major couple goals.

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For those who don’t know, Nikki and Arbaz first met and fell in love during the reality show Bigg Boss Marathi 5. Their bond grew stronger after the show, and while they are often spotted together, the couple has clarified that they are not planning to tie the knot anytime soon. Instead, they’re enjoying their relationship at their own pace, sharing snippets of their journey with fans online.

On the professional front, Nikki Tamboli was last seen in Celebrity MasterChef India, where she impressed audiences and emerged as the first runner-up. Meanwhile, Arbaz Patel rose to fame with his stint in Splitsvilla X5 and has since carved a space for himself as both a model and an actor.

With such dreamy celebrations and their undeniable chemistry, Nikki and Arbaz continue to keep their fans hooked — whether on screen or in their real-life love story.

Also Read: Tulsi Kumar teams up with Manan Bhardwaj for new single ‘Bheegne De’ featuring Nikki Tamboli and Arbaz Patel

Bollywood actress Sonnalli Seygall is giving fans a refreshingly real glimpse into her postpartum journey. In a new video she shared online, the Pyaar Ka Punchnama star showcased what she eats in a day — and it’s not just about strict nutrition. From jeera water to cake to even rasgullas, the actress is embracing a balanced approach that focuses as much on feeling good as on staying healthy.

In the clip, Sonnalli can be seen starting her day with a glass of jeera water, known for its digestion-boosting properties, before moving on to wholesome meals and occasional sweet treats. But what caught everyone’s attention was her unapologetic inclusion of indulgences like cake and rasgullas. “From jeera water to rasgullas… it’s all part of the balance,” she captioned the post, adding, “Postpartum meals aren’t just about nutrition, they’re also about feeling good (and yes, cake is included)!”

The actress’s honesty struck a chord with new mothers everywhere who often feel pressured to “bounce back” with rigid diets. Sonnalli’s perspective highlights a more mindful and compassionate approach — one that values both physical and emotional well-being.

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Sonnalli Seygall, who shot to fame with the popular Pyaar Ka Punchnama franchise, tied the knot with restaurateur Ashesh L Sajnani in a dreamy wedding in June 2023. The couple welcomed their first child, a daughter, on November 27, 2024, and named her Shukar, which means “thankful.”

Since embracing motherhood, Sonnalli has been vocal about the changes, challenges, and joys that come with it. Her latest post is another step in normalizing the idea that women don’t have to give up on food pleasures in order to stay healthy.

By mixing traditional wellness practices like jeera water, dry fruits, smoothie bowls with everyday indulgences, Sonnalli is setting an example of balance and self-kindness. For new moms navigating similar journeys, her message is clear: it’s not just about how you look, but how you feel — and sometimes, that means saying yes to cake.

Also Read: Photos: Sonnalli Seygall, Amyra Dastur and others snapped in Santacruz

A big fear that plagues scriptwriters in our industry is that someone might plagiarize their script. Believe it or not, Imran Khan also went through a similar turmoil way back in 2005. The actor spoke about it in detail in an interview with Planet Bollywood.

Imran Khan began by saying, “The incident about me taking a script to a channel and it getting stolen happened in early 2005. In the aftermath of that, I found I was completely powerless and could not catch hold of the guys who did this to me. I had gone into this meeting. It had been set up through contacts. These people had no context of my family relationships or background. To them, I was just a kid off the street. That is why they felt comfortable enough to lift my script. I was helpless and could not hold them accountable. I was very upset about it. If I had some name or recognition of my own, they might not have done this. To what extent that is true is a debatable point. I was 22 at that point.”

Imran Khan further said, “I had spent a few months roaming the city and trying to find a position as an AD (assistant director). I had met a few people. One guy was working in the production department. He reached out to me and said that Abbas Tyrewala is making a film, and they are looking for new faces. They want you to come and audition for a part. I was aware of Abbas as I had seen his name on the credits of a few films I had liked. I had particularly appreciated his work as a lyricist. He had written lyrics for some songs I thought were very good. He had done some amount of screenwriting by then also. Since I recognized his name, I decided to meet him. We hit it off well in the very first meeting. I screen-tested for the part. Nandini Shrikent was the casting director of the film.”

The film in question was Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na (2008), which became his debut film.

Also Read: Imran Khan shares how living with girlfriend Lekha Washington changed his lifestyle; says, “Lekha and I had to share one plate and fork”

Bollywood powerhouse Kriti Sanon, who recently made her foray into production with Do Patti in 2024, delivered a candid and deeply motivational address at CNN-News18’s SheShakti 2025, emphasizing the importance of perseverance in a notoriously exclusive industry.

“You need to really be passionate about it and there is no shortcut. Nothing comes easy, there are no free lunches,” Sanon asserted, striking a chord with countless aspiring actors who face the uphill climb without legacy backing or industry connections. She elaborated bluntly: “You have to work hard towards it, and what is also very, very important is not to give up.” Her words resonated with a universal truth about showbiz: unless driven and resolute, success remains elusive.

For those who don’t come from a filmi background, the road can be especially steep. Kriti Sanon urged, “There will be times… when no one’s giving you anything on a platter. There will be so many people telling you why it’s too big a dream, why it can’t happen… or what is wrong with you… you’re too short, you’re too tall, you’re too thin…” She described the barrage of external negativity that many newcomers endure—questioning their looks, their talent, and their industry sense.

But Sanon’s message was clear: don’t let that derail you. “I feel people are going to tell you what’s wrong with you; no one’s really going to tell you that you can do it other than you.” She urged individuals to cultivate self-belief and resilience, especially when support is sparse.

Taking the long view, Kriti highlighted the value of patience in an industry obsessed with overnight success. “You really need to be very driven, passionate, and patient, because it will come when the time is right, but you have to keep working on yourself.” She reframed delays as opportunities for growth, encouraging hopefuls not to despair but to double down on self-improvement. “Maybe it’s taking so long because you need that time to work on yourself, to get better.”

Her optimism radiated as she added, “So it’ll happen when the time is right, I promise you that, but you have to be at it.”

Kriti Sanon’s journey has mirrored her message. The actress-turned-producer debuted behind the camera with Do Patti and has remained unstoppable. She’s currently shooting for Tere Ishk Mein, where she stars opposite Dhanush under the direction of acclaimed filmmaker Aanand L. Rai. Adding to the excitement, Sanon recently opened up kicking off work for Cocktail 2, directed by Homi Adajania—project details, however, remain tightly under wraps.

As Sanon continues to break moulds in front of and behind the camera, her speech at SheShakti 2025 stands as a stirring reminder that while Bollywood seldom serves success on a silver platter, it rewards those who refuse to give up.

Also Read: Kriti Sanon says ‘One step at a time’ as Homi Adajania shares Cocktail 2 prep glimpse

Jackie Shroff has always been more than a movie star. With his trademark scarf, streetwise charm, and decades of screen presence, he embodies a blend of old-school cool and earthy authenticity. Yet beyond the lights of Bollywood, another signature has defined him just as deeply: his unwavering bond with plants. For years, he has walked into events cradling a sapling instead of luxury gifts, turning a simple gesture into a quiet philosophy of life.

Now, his philosophy is crystal clear: nature belongs in every corner of our urban lives. “Har gali, har chhat, har balcony mein bas ek chhota jungle ugana hai,” Shroff says passionately. To him, plants aren’t decoration — they’re companions, therapists, and teachers. “They keep you patient, grounded, and connected to your roots,” he insists.

Unlike most celebrity endorsements, Shroff’s green message feels personal. He isn’t “acting” when he’s around plants. “No acting stress, just me doing what I love — being around plants and sharing that joy,” he recalls of a recent campaign shoot.

With climate change looming large, Shroff believes behavioural change starts small. “One little plant can bring you peace, health, and a home that looks and feels alive,” he says. For Jackie Shroff, planting a tree isn’t a favour to the world — it’s a favour to yourself, your family, and your planet.

Also Read: Jackie Shroff shares his parenting hack; says, “Gift your kids a seed, not a screen”

By going on record about Salman Khan’s unruly conduct on the sets of Sikandar — including turning up hours late and keeping child actors awake till 2 am — director A.R. Murugadoss has once again shed light on a long-standing malaise in Bollywood: the lack of discipline and dedication among some of its biggest superstars.

A director who has previously worked with Salman corroborates Murugadoss’s claims. “Murugadoss is absolutely right. Salman Khan never arrives on set before 2–3 pm for the morning shift. He then has his lunch, takes a nap, and shooting doesn’t begin before 5 pm. Most filmmakers find it impossible to work with him. But producers like Sajid Nadiadwala allow Salman to do what he likes. He has never been given a reason to change his ways.”

This isn’t the first time Salman’s indiscipline has cost a project. In 2019, Sanjay Leela Bhansali shelved the Salman-starrer Inshallah after repeated interference and delays from the actor. Bhansali, who had earlier collaborated with Salman on two of his finest works — Khamoshi and Hum… Dil De Chuke Sanam — took the instant decision to call off the film and vowed never to work with him again.

Although Salman and Bhansali remain close friends, the filmmaker has drawn a professional line. In 2022, when Salman pitched a film that would unite him and Shah Rukh Khan under Bhansali’s direction, the director refused outright. His stance was blunt: “Shah Rukh, yes. Salman, never!”

But Salman is hardly the first superstar to gain notoriety for tardiness and indiscipline. Before him, Rajesh Khanna, Sanjeev Kumar, and Shatrughan Sinha were repeat offenders.

Sharmila Tagore, who worked extensively with all three, recalls, “If I was shooting with Kaka (Rajesh Khanna), Haribhai (Sanjeev Kumar), or Shatru (Shatrughan Sinha), I made sure I reached for the morning shift only after lunch, or sometimes much later. It was annoying at first to wait for hours, but after working with them repeatedly, I got used to their eccentric timings.”

Shatrughan Sinha, however, defends himself, “I had an acute low blood pressure problem for which I had to do yoga every morning. Combined with late nights, that made me arrive late. But once I came on set, I never left until my work was done. Haven’t my heroines confirmed this? The great Dilip Kumar saab once gave me the lesson of a lifetime during the shooting of Kranti. I came at my usual SST (Shatru Standard Time), and as I entered, I saw him waving from his car as he left.”

In contrast, Amitabh Bachchan, Akshay Kumar, and Aamir Khan are famously punctual. But for many others, late arrivals have been normalized.

Hema Malini, the only female star of her era who commanded as much clout as her male co-stars, refused to tolerate such behaviour, “With me, the notorious latecomers came on time. When one actor arrived three hours late on the first day of shooting, I told him I was going home. I warned that if he wasn’t punctual the next day, I would walk out of the film. He was on time the very next day,” she recalls.

Hema believes co-actors are partly to blame for superstar tantrums. “If the director and co-stars make it clear that such delays are unacceptable, stars would stop. It’s the industry’s silence that enables them.”

Murugadoss’s candid remarks may have stirred controversy, but they also highlight a long-suppressed truth about Bollywood’s star culture: punctuality and professionalism are optional for some, and non-negotiable for others.

Also Read: AR Murugadoss slams Salman Khan for arriving late on the sets of Sikandar; says, “We had to shoot entirely with green screen and VFX”

Ravi Chhabriya, who debuted as a director with the Diljit Dosanjh-starrer Detective Sherdil, had extensively worked as an assistant director in several films. Three of these films starred Salman Khan – Sultan (2016), Tiger Zinda Hai (2017) and Bharat (2019). In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, Ravi Chhabriya talked in detail about his association with Salman Khan and a lot more.

Before the release of Bharat, there were reports that Varun Dhawan had a cameo in the Salman Khan-Katrina Kaif starrer. Later, it came to light that the scene had been edited out. Often, filmmakers put out deleted scenes on YouTube. Hence, can we expect the said scene to be out in public?

Ravi Chhabriya replied, “I guess it’s upto producer Atul Agnihotri sir. I have no idea if they are planning to put it out on YouTube. We shot the scene and during the final cut, it was decided to get it out.”

When asked what the scene was all about, Ravi Chhabriya answered, “It appears when Bharat is working in the oil field in the Middle East. There was a scene where Salman sir’s character and Varun’s character came together. It was a fun scene. Dono panja ladate hai.”

Besides the three films of Salman Khan, Ravi Chhabriya earlier assisted in two ventures of Yash Raj Films (YRF). He also had the opportunity to be around when Yash Chopra was still alive. On this, he revealed, “I worked on two films before I worked with Ali Abbas Zafar sir – Aurangzeb (2013) and Kill Dil (2014). I was there and we (he and Yash Chopra) exchanged pleasantries, like ‘Hi, hello’. I still remember that in the evenings, he used to take a walk around the entire YRF property. It was a dream to be around such people and their energies. Like other ADs, I used to also dream that someday I would be able to assist him (smiles). I even tried.”

Is he still in touch with Aditya Chopra and others at YRF? Ravi Chhabriya answered, “Yes. I am always in touch. I have grown up there. It was like a university for me. I used to stay close by and have worked for almost 8-9 years. So, they were like family.”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Detective Sherdil director Ravi Chhabriya talks about working in three Salman Khan films as an AD; opens up on Sultan’s unforgettable mirror scene: “The way he performed that scene gave us GOOSEBUMPS…camera GENUINELY loves him”

Veteran actor Neena Gupta, celebrated for her candid demeanour and bold fashion choices, recently responded with grace and wit to a troll’s body-shaming comment after she posted a video from the airport. In the clip, Gupta shared how she carries homemade snacks during long airport waits—specifically, roti rolls packed in a tiffin filled with potatoes, chillies, paneer, onions, and other ingredients—with the caption: “Shorts wali desi girl.”

The video, featuring the actor dressed in a casual black outfit and shorts and speaking directly to the camera in the airport lounge, earned a mixed reaction from viewers. One commenter wrote, “Very good ...only request dont show your legs ,they are not well toned ...we have never seen dadi mummy showing their legs this way ...ageing gracefully is excellent.”

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Unfazed by the criticism, Gupta fired back with characteristic confidence and candor, “Don’t worry. These people who talk like this are basically jealous that they don’t have such good body, so ignore.”

Notably, many fans came to Gupta’s defence in the comments, with one pointing out, “What a demeaning comment from another WOMAN. Congratulations for being such a body shamer and being part of the problem.”

On the work front, she was last seen in Anurag Basu’s romantic drama Metro… In Dino, which featured a star-studded cast including Aditya Roy Kapur, Sara Ali Khan, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Ali Fazal, Konkona Sen Sharma, Pankaj Tripathi, and Anupam Kher, and performed well at the box office.

Also Read : Neena Gupta reflects on her first husband: “The love that I see in movies and read in books, I’ve never experienced that in real life”

The month of August started on a rocking note for superstar Shah Rukh Khan. On August 1, the winners of the 71st National Film Awards were announced and SRK won the award for Best Actor for his stupendous performance in Atlee’s Jawan (2023). Many celebrated his victory, but some had reservations. A few of them claimed that performances in a masala film shouldn’t be honoured, while some felt that it was not a National Award-worthy performance. Bollywood Hungama recently spoke with Nikhil Dwivedi and we asked him to comment on this matter. Interestingly, Shah Rukh Khan was the chief guest at a promotional event of Nikhil’s first film as an actor, My Name Is Anthony Gonsalves (2008).

Nikhil Dwivedi said, “The National Awards have a jury which always consists of eminent people. The problem is that a section of people questions everything. Either we should reject each and every award that they have chosen. We can’t say that the jury is right about the 5 awards but wrong about the rest of the 5 awards. That makes no sense to me. Either reject the jury’s outcome completely.”

Nikhil Dwivedi continued, “It’s not fair to say ‘I like this artist and hence, you have chosen correctly’ or ‘This artist should not have won’. Then, you become the jury! This commentary is absurd. I am sure the jury has taken its decision in full wisdom. These are the people who have been in the world of cinema for years. They must have thought it well and we must respect it.”

In Jawan, Shah Rukh Khan played the double role of Vikram Rathore and his son, Azad. Vikram is attacked by the goons of the antagonist, Kalee Gaikwad (Vijay Sethupathi) and loses his memory. His son, Azad, is born in prison. 30 years later, he is a police officer and is also a vigilante who goes out of his way to deliver justice. Both Azad and Vikram are unaware of each other and fireworks happen when they both meet, amid a lot of madness.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Nikhil Dwivedi explains why entourage expenses aren’t the real villain: “If an artist is charging Rs. 50 crores as his fees and Rs. 20 crores for his entourage, but his recovery is just Rs. 50 crores, that’s not feasible”

On Tuesday, Abundantia Entertainment and Collective Media Network announced a new film on Lord Hanuman that is reportedly being made entirely with Artificial Intelligence (AI). The announcement quickly stirred up heated debates within the Indian film fraternity, with many filmmakers and artists voicing concerns over the lack of a humane touch in creativity.

Among those who expressed strong displeasure was filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, known for his unfiltered opinions and acclaimed works like Gangs of Wasseypur. Taking to Instagram, Kashyap shared a long note sharply criticizing the production houses for this move and questioned the role of artist representation agencies in enabling such projects.

Kashyap’s post read, “Congratulations @vijaysubramaniam84 . Here is the man heading the @lifeatcollectiveartistsnetwork that represents artists, writer, directors , now producing a film made by AI . So much for looking after and representing the interests of creators. End of the day , all these agencies are only interested in making money off you and since they choose turkeys after turkeys for you and you’re not making enough for them , they are going all AI.”

He further continued, “Any actor or anyone who calls themselves artists and has a spine will be and should be either questioning him or leaving the agency since he has proved that he thinks you’re no match for his AI performance . This right here is the future for the spineless and cowardly so called artists in the Hindi Film industry. Well done Vijay Subramaniam . Shame is not enough on you. You should be in the gutter.”

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Kashyap’s explosive remarks immediately gained traction, with many in the industry resonating with his sentiment. His long-time friend and collaborator, Vikramaditya Motwane, also weighed in on the matter. The filmmaker, who earlier directed a project exploring the impact of Artificial Intelligence and its control over the public, voiced his criticism through his Instagram story. Motwane wrote, “And so it begins… Who TF needs writers and directors when it’s ‘Made in AI’.”

The joint backlash from Kashyap and Motwane reflects a larger concern brewing in the creative industry, where AI-generated art and content are increasingly being positioned as replacements for human creativity. While production houses hail technology as the future of filmmaking, many directors, writers, and actors fear that this shift undermines the very essence of storytelling rooted in human experiences.

With this controversy making headlines, the debate around the role of AI in cinema is expected to intensify, leaving the industry divided between innovation and authenticity.

Also Read: ‘Dear Country’, first song from Anurag Kashyap and Amazon MGM Studios’ Nishaanchi, out; watch

Mahesh Manjrekar and Sanjay Dutt once made for an envious director-actor jodi. Both collaborated for the first time on Vaastav (1999). The film turned out to be a cult and is considered to be one of the most accomplished performances of the actor. Later, Mahesh Manjrekar directed Sanjay Dutt in Kurukshetra (2000), Hathyar (2002), Pitaah (2002), Rakht (2004), Viruddh (2005) and Vaah Life Ho Toh Aisi (2005). If all goes well, both might join hands once again, after nearly two decades, for the remake of the acclaimed 2024 Marathi film, Juna Furniture.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Mahesh Manjrekar directed Juna Furniture and he played the main lead. The film got a lot of critical acclaim for its message, subject and performances. Mahesh realized that it has the potential to touch the Hindi-speaking audiences as well. Hence, he has begun work on the scripting of the Hindi remake.”

The source further said, “He has approached Sanjay Dutt as he feels that the veteran actor will do complete justice to the role. Both Mahesh Manjrekar and Sanjay Dutt are fond of each other. They have had a great time working with each other and it’s been a while since they collaborated on a project. This was also a reason why the filmmaker was keen on getting the actor on board. However, Sanjay Dutt is yet to reply to Mr Manjrekar on whether he'll be able to act in the remake.”

Juna Furniture is the story of a senior citizen and his son, an IAS officer. The senior citizen often finds himself in need of money and has to ask his son for it. Once, when the father has a similar need, the son is unavailable. The father is so distraught with this experience that he files a case against his son. The film also starred Bhushan Pradhan, Anusha Dandekar, Sameer Dharmadhikari, Sachin Khedekar, Shivaji Satam, Upendra Limaye and Mahesh's wife Medha Manjrekar.

Meanwhile, there were reports earlier this year that Mahesh Manjrekar and Sanjay Dutt might also collaborate on Vaastav 2.

Also Read: The Raja Saab: Sanjay Dutt fans get excited as makers of Prabhas starrer unveil new poster

2026 is going to be exciting as some of the biggest films, featuring popular names, are scheduled for release. One of the highly awaited ones is Love & War. It is directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and features an envious star cast comprising Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal. Another factor that is enticing about this film is that its Bhansali’s first film in 26 years, which will be shot abroad.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Sanjay Leela Bhansali is known for making grand and visually spectacular films. Yet, he hasn’t gone abroad for the same for his films like Devdas (2002), Black (2005), Saawariya (2007), Guzaarish (2010), Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-leela (2013), Bajirao Mastani (2015), Padmaavat (2018) and Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022). Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1998) was the last film for which he travelled abroad, to Hungary (depicted in the film as Italy), to shoot a crucial sequence of the second half.”

The source continued, “But for Love & War, there’s a requirement of a foreign location. Hence, the filmmaker travelled to Rome, Italy, for a recce earlier this month. The film is expected to be shot in the Italian capital and maybe, a few more places in Europe, later this year.”

As per reports, Sanjay Leela Bhansali will be shooting big face-off sequences between Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal this month. The report further stated that around 100 days of shooting were completed until July and 90 more days of filming are left.

Love & War is scheduled to be released on March 20, 2026, on Ramzan Eid. It reunites Sanjay Leela Bhansali with Ranbir Kapoor after nearly 18 years. Ranbir debuted in SLB’s Saawariya. Meanwhile, Alia had worked with the blockbuster director in his last film, Gangubai Kathiawadi. As for Vicky Kaushal, this is his first outing with Sanjay Leela Bhansali.

Also Read: Love & War starring Vicky Kaushal, Ranbir Kapoor heads to Madhya Pradesh for 15-day shoot at British-era army base: Report

In a startling revelation that underscores the systemic undervaluing of playback singers in India, renowned singer Kanika Kapoor—known for chart-topping hits like ‘Baby Doll’ and ‘Chittiyaan Kalaiyaan’—has shed light on the meagre compensation artists often receive for their work. Speaking on Uorfi Javed’s YouTube show Bunkk with Uorfi, she confessed to receiving just Rs. 101 for a song.

She stated, “Singers don’t really get paid. Main saare contracts dikhaati hu, 101 rupees milte hain. They say that they are doing you a favour. I can talk to you about the greatest singer of India. I am not going to give names, but very obvious. I don't think that even he is being paid for most of his greatest songs ever. Or has any publishing, or has any royalty structure. There is nothing like that in India today.”

Her comments paint a bleak picture of an industry where fame and chartbusters don’t necessarily translate into fair financial remuneration.

Kapoor further highlighted the precarious nature of singers' livelihoods, stating, “Only if you are alive and you are able to sing, agar aapki awaaz chal rahi hai, aur aap shows kar paa rahe hain. Jab tak aap shows kar paa rahe hain, tab tak aapko paise milenge. Kal ko kuchh ho jaaye to koi pension plan nahi hai singers ke liye.” (As long as your voice is working and you're able to perform shows, you'll keep earning. But if something happens tomorrow, there's no pension plan for singers)

These remarks expose a stark reality: the recorded music ecosystem often offers negligible direct compensation or any royalty infrastructure. Instead, artists are forced to depend heavily on live performances to make a living.

The revelations have sparked fresh discussions on the need for structural reforms in India’s music industry. With playback singing forming the backbone of Bollywood’s musical identity, her candid account is a call to action for fair contracts, royalty systems, and long-term safety nets to safeguard artists’ well-being.

Kanika Kapoor’s straightforward admission is more than a personal grievance—it’s a clarion call. Her words highlight that even with fame and hit songs, the financial fate of playback singers in India remains precarious, governed more by live-stage survival than fair recognition of their recorded contributions.

At least 120 crew members working on Ranveer Singh’s forthcoming film Dhurandhar have fallen ill due to suspected food poisoning during the shoot in Leh district of Ladakh, forcing the production to pause. The incident occurred on August 17 while filming at Pathar Sahib. “Over 100 workers of a Bollywood film crew were hospitalised in Leh after a suspected case of food poisoning late Sunday evening,” officials told Mid-Day.

The affected individuals experienced severe symptoms such as intense abdominal pain, vomiting, and headaches soon after eating, prompting immediate medical attention at the Sajal Narbbu Memorial Hospital. Around 600 people were served the food that day, out of whom 120 fell ill and required hospitalization. There are rumours suggesting that a few individuals also suffered cardiac-related complications.”

Food samples have been collected and sent for further analysis to pinpoint the root cause of the contamination. Meanwhile, the team has suspended shooting temporarily.

Dhurandhar marks Ranveer Singh’s first collaboration with director Aditya Dhar. While the storyline remains largely under wraps, the teaser hints at an origin story steeped in betrayal, courage, and a hidden war fought by unnamed figures in the shadows. The film also features an impressive ensemble, including Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna, R Madhavan, and Arjun Rampal.

Reports suggest Ranveer and Aditya are already planning another project, slated to begin once Don 3 wraps. Dhurandhar is currently scheduled to worldwide theatrical release on December 5, 2025.

Also Read : Ranveer Singh unveils Sansaar by D’Decor’s musical ode to sustainable living

Filmmaker Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri has warned that he will pursue legal recourse if the release of his film The Bengal Files is prohibited in West Bengal. This statement came during a press conference following the disruption of the film’s trailer launch in Kolkata.

Scheduled to hit theatres on September 5, The Bengal Files delves into the Calcutta riots of August 16, 1946, triggered by the All-India Muslim League’s call for “Direct Action Day” .

Vivek Agnihotri recounted the series of setbacks faced during the trailer launch: it was initially cancelled by a multiplex, then shifted to a hotel where the power suddenly went out, and police eventually intervened to inquire whether proper permissions had been obtained .

“We will go by the Constitution. We will go legally. If they stop us, we will take the legal course. What can we do? We are common citizens like you… We will pray that sanity prevails and the state government does not do it,” said the director, directly challenging the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC government over alleged suppression of the film .

Addressing controversy involving Gopal Chandra Mukherjee—whose grandson Santanu Mukherjee has registered an FIR claiming the film portrays his grandfather as a “butcher”—Agnihotri clarified that the character is “an inspired character and not central to the plot.” He added, “I will not go into his history. Watch Santanu's interview. I can give you all the links. There is an interview of Gopal Mukherjee on BBC. In that interview, what he has said, we have only shown that much. I have nothing to do with Gopal Mukherjee's life, politics. He was a hero, and I have shown him as a hero.”

He said, “I respect Gopal Mukherjee a lot. His grandsons work with TMC. There is a compulsion there… They have done it legally. We are giving a legal answer to that.”

Agnihotri framed his work as an effort to bring forward “untold stories of India,” explaining: “Our purpose is very clear. I make films on Hindu civilization. That is why I make films on Hindu history. I do not consider myself capable of making films on Islamic history or Christian history.”

Also Read : Vivek Agnihotri faces FIR over alleged misrepresentation of Freedom Fighter Gopal Mukherjee in new film trailer

Bollywood actress Anita Advani recently spoke exclusively to the Indian Express, revealing intimate details about her private marriage with Rajesh Khanna and the challenges she faced within the film industry. Her revelations shed light on a side of Bollywood relationships rarely discussed publicly.

Advani began by explaining why she chose to remain silent about her wedding with Bollywood’s first superstar Rajesh Khanna. “We got married privately, but in the film industry, no one talks about such things openly. Everyone says ‘we’re friends’ or ‘we’re in a relationship’ or something else. But it was already reported in the media that I was with him, so neither of us felt the need to go and publicly announce that we were married. We never felt that need.”

She recounted the intimate ceremony, which took place at a small temple within their home. “I had a mangal sutra made, gold with black beads. He made me wear it. Then he applied sindoor and said, ‘From today, you are my responsibility.’ That’s how our wedding happened one night, just like that.”

Addressing her early involvement in her Khanna’s life, Advani said, “Yes, I came into his life before Dimple Kapadia. But we didn’t get married at the time because I was so young. Eventually, I went back to Jaipur.”

The actress also revealed the shocking treatment she faced during Kakaji’s chautha ceremony. “They had bouncers stationed there to stop me from coming in, I learned this from friends. When I told them I planned to go, they warned me that I would not be allowed inside. Still, they said, ‘If anything happens, we’re here for you.’ But I was stunned and asked, ‘Why all this?’ Some of my staff and close friends encouraged me to go, even suggested I carry a camera and record what they do. But I thought, how can I do such a thing on such a solemn day? So I didn’t go. I held my own chautha for him alone at a temple.”

Reflecting on the situation, Advani stated, “It would have been beneath my dignity to go there after everything. And frankly, it was beneath theirs to treat me that way, to call bouncers for me. One of my friends who did attend told me that they were blocking seats to ensure I wouldn’t have a place to sit. They even told one of our family lawyers to ‘handle me’ if I showed up. What does that even mean? I was shocked. I would never go to Kakaji’s chautha to create a scene. I would never even think of it. That’s why I didn’t go. And what happened there? It was all just a show. No one had any real feelings for him.”

Her candid interview provides a rare glimpse into the personal struggles and emotional dynamics of Bollywood, where public appearances often mask private realities.

Also Read: Sharmila Tagore on the re-release of Aradhana, “I was taken as a serious actor in Hindi cinema after this film”

Actor Nakuul Mehta and his wife Jankee Parekh Mehta have announced the arrival of their second child, a daughter, on August 17, 2025, delighting fans and well-wishers across the country. The couple also revealed her birth date as August 15 along with her name in a heartfelt social media post on Instagram which received ample love from the actor’s fans and well-wishers.

Sharing the joyous news on social media, Nakuul wrote, “She’s here. Sufi finally has his Rumi. Our hearts are complete. 15th August 2025. Your task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all the barriers within yourself that you have built against it.”

The announcement immediately garnered a wave of congratulatory messages from the entertainment industry. Celebrities took to social media to shower blessings and love. Gauahar Khan commented, “Awwwww god bless… so happy for your family. Many many congratulations,” while Bharti Singh added, “congratulations yahooooo rumiiiiiii welcome.” Dia Mirza extended her wishes saying, “So much love to all 4 of you,” and Karan V Grover wrote, “Stay blessed Mehta Parivaar.” Sanaya Irani shared her excitement, exclaiming, “Congratulations. It’s a giiiiirrrrrllllll. Lots of love.” Manjari Fadnis, Neeti Mohan, Leenesh Mattoo, Mansi Srivastava, Harshdeep Kaur, Meiyang Chang, Gautam Rode, Karan Mehra, among others also joined in with heartfelt messages, celebrating the family’s happiness.

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This marks the second addition to the Mehta family. The couple had shared the news of Jankee’s second pregnancy in June 2025 with a playful post that read, “The boy is ready for additional responsibility. So are we. We are accepting blessings, ????????????????????.” Their first child, a son named Sufi, was born on 3 February 2021. Nakuul’s social media posts highlight not just the joy of parenthood, but also the poetic and reflective nature that fans have come to admire.

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Nakuul and Jankee’s love story spans over a decade. The couple first met during their teenage years and eventually tied the knot on 28 January 2012 in a traditional Hindu wedding ceremony. Their long-standing relationship has been marked by mutual respect, creativity, and shared passions, making their journey to parenthood a celebrated chapter among fans and industry peers alike.

Also Read: Nakuul Mehta opens up about his new collaboration with Star Plus show Udne Ki Aasha; says, “It was a homecoming of sorts to Star Plus where I started my television career”

Vivek Agnihotri directorial The Bengal Files witnessed a fresh controversy as Shantanu Mukherjee, grandson of celebrated Bengali freedom fighter Gopal Mukherjee, filed a police complaint against the filmmaker. The grievance comes in response to the trailer of Agnihotri's upcoming political drama, unveiled on August 16, which coincides with the 80th anniversary of the "Great Calcutta Killings," also known as 'Direct Action Day.'

According to Shantanu Mukherjee, the film inaccurately portrays his grandfather, calling him “Kashai” (meaning butcher) and “Patha” (meaning goat), terms he describes as deeply disrespectful. "My grandfather was an important figure in the freedom movement, working alongside prominent leaders, with his ideology aligned with Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. To label him in such derogatory terms is not only historically inaccurate but also offensive to our family and the community," Shantanu stated in a statement reported by India Today.

In protest, Shantanu has sent a legal notice to Vivek Agnihotri and lodged a formal FIR demanding a public apology. He expressed frustration that the filmmakers failed to consult the family or verify historical facts before the release of the trailer. "I think Vivek Agnihotri should research more on this. From where did they get this wrong information? He has not contacted us either. That's why we are protesting and will continue to do so," he said.

The film, which is the third installment in Agnihotri’s "Files Trilogy" following The Tashkent Files (2019) and The Kashmir Files (2022), revolves around the 1946 Great Calcutta Killings and the Noakhali riots. It seeks to depict the events as genocide and highlights how these historical atrocities were allegedly silenced or ignored in mainstream narratives. The trailer's release on the anniversary of the tragedy has added emotional weight and intensified public scrutiny.

Film analysts note that Agnihotri’s projects often stir debate for their portrayal of historical events, and this latest controversy underscores the sensitivity surrounding depictions of real-life freedom fighters. Historians and community leaders have echoed Shantanu’s concerns, emphasizing the importance of responsible storytelling when representing figures who played pivotal roles in India’s independence movement.

The dispute raises critical questions about the responsibility of filmmakers to consult families and historians before dramatizing historical events. Whether the controversy will lead to edits in the film or a formal apology remains to be seen, but the FIR and legal notice signal that the debate is only just beginning.

Also Read: Vivek Agnihotri’s The Bengal Files trailer stopped in West Bengal; says, “Democracy is dead in Tagore and Vivekananda’s land”

Bollywood’s beloved superstar Shah Rukh Khan delighted his fans on Saturday evening by hosting an impromptu #AskSRK session on X (formerly Twitter). Known for his witty banter and straightforward charm, SRK answered questions ranging from his upcoming film King to fans’ curiosity about his future projects.

When a fan asked for an update on King, the actor shared a playful yet reassuring progress report. “Did some good shoot… starting soon again. Only leg shots then move to upper body… Insha Allah will be done fast. @justSidAnand is working hard to finish,” SRK revealed. His tongue-in-cheek description of shooting “leg shots” first had fans amused, while also signalling that the project is steadily moving ahead under director Siddharth Anand’s watch.

Did some good shoot….starting soon again. Only leg shots then move to upper body….Insha Allah will be done fast. @justSidAnand is working hard to finish. https://t.co/d88P2te8ll — Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) August 16, 2025

Another fan probed whether audiences could expect Shah Rukh Khan in any other movie besides King. In his signature style, SRK quipped: “Just KING… naam toh suna hoga (have you heard the name)?” The sharp reply instantly trended across social media, reinforcing the anticipation surrounding his first major theatrical release since Dunki.

Just KING….naam toh suna hoga? https://t.co/8zLVmkwmUR — Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) August 16, 2025

King is shaping up to be one of 2025’s most talked-about films. Written by Sujoy Ghosh and directed by Siddharth Anand, the film is expected to be a slick gangster action drama. Adding to the excitement, it marks the theatrical debut of Suhana Khan, Shah Rukh’s daughter, who was last seen in Zoya Akhtar’s Netflix film The Archies as she will be seen sharing screen space with her father for the first time. The cast also includes Abhishek Bachchan, reportedly playing the antagonist, along with Munjya fame Abhay Verma in a pivotal role.

The timing of SRK’s interactive session is noteworthy, coming just a day before Netflix dropped the teaser of Aryan Khan’s directorial debut series The Ba**ds of Bollywood*. As always, Shah Rukh Khan’s session was a mix of humor, honesty, and his signature warmth that keeps his fanbase loyal. With King progressing swiftly and Aryan stepping into direction, audiences can expect a Khan double celebration in the months ahead.

Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan marks Independence Day with AbRam in a heartwarming post

On Saturday, the trailer launch of Vivek Agnihotri’s upcoming and much-debated film The Bengal Files, which depicts the 1946 Calcutta communal riots, was halted at a luxury hotel in Kolkata. The move was met with little surprise, given the sensitive subject matter and the expected backlash. The ruling All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal is known for its strong stance on protecting the state’s minority community.

A senior Trinamool leader, who is also a veteran actor, told this writer on condition of anonymity, “It is unlikely Agnihotri’s film will be released in West Bengal. He has a reputation for being a troublemaker. The Kashmir Files stirred up disturbing anti-Muslim sentiments. That won’t be allowed to happen here.”

Responding to the incident, Vivek Agnihotri took to social media, tweeting, “With anguish I inform you: Today West Bengal police, on orders of ‘top authorities’, illegally stopped the trailer of #TheBengalFiles. First theatres, now even a private hotel.”

Later, speaking further on the controversy, Agnihotri remarked, “Who fears the truth of Hindu genocide? And why? Democracy is dead in Tagore and Vivekananda’s land. The trailer is now being seen all over the country, but since it is based in Bengal, we wanted its launch here. They don’t want the atrocities on Bengali Hindus in 1946 and the fightback of people like Gopal Mukherjee to be shown in cinema. If it is a part of history, do you want to change history? There can be only one reason behind such a move — to ignore the conspiracy to divide Bengal again.”

Veteran actor Anupam Kher, who essays the role of Mahatma Gandhi in The Bengal Files, also came forward in support of the film. Speaking exclusively to this writer, Kher said, “The Bengal Files tells only the truth. Why fear the truth?”

Also Read: Vivek Agnihotri launches The Bengal Files trailer on Direct Action Day in Kolkata – Here’s why the date matters

Netflix, in collaboration with Red Chillies Entertainment Pvt. Ltd., has unveiled the much-anticipated first look of The Ba***ds of Bollywood, marking Aryan Khan’s official directorial debut. The streaming giant shared a teaser across its social media platforms, giving audiences a first taste of what promises to be an unconventional, high-energy series.

The teaser opens with a voiceover reminiscent of the romantic tone from his father Shah Rukh Khan starrer classic Mohabbatein, evoking nostalgia for Bollywood’s golden era. However, the atmosphere quickly shifts, landing a biting punchline that signals a departure from convention. While the voice might faintly remind audiences of Shah Rukh Khan, the delivery, intent, and freshness is introduced by none other than Aryan showcasing his uniqueness.

With this teaser, Aryan Khan steps into the limelight as a storyteller in his own right. His opening words in the video encapsulate the essence of the show: “Bollywood – jisse aapne saalon se pyaar bhi kiya aur vaar bhi kiya, main bhi wohi karunga, bohot saara pyaar… aur thoda sa vaar.” The line suggests that the series will celebrate Bollywood’s charm while also critiquing its clichés, blending reverence with rebellion.

Described as “fun, filmy, aur thoda zyaada,” the show aims to straddle the line between homage and satire. It promises to be provocative yet rooted, stylised yet chaotic, bringing forward a voice that represents a generational shift in how Bollywood stories are told and consumed.

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The series features an ensemble cast including Bobby Deol, Lakshya, Sahher Bambba, Manoj Pahwa, Mona Singh, Manish Chaudhari, Raghav Juyal, Anya Singh, Vijayant Kohli, and Gautami Kapoor. With such a diverse lineup, expectations are high for a multi-layered narrative packed with drama, humour, and self-awareness.

Behind the scenes, The Ba***ds of Bollywood has heavyweight backing. Gauri Khan serves as the producer, while Bonnie Jain and Akshat Verma take on the role of executive producers. Aryan Khan co-created the series along with Bilal Siddiqi and Manav Chauhan, with the trio also credited as writers.

The teaser concludes with Netflix’s announcement that a detailed preview of the series will be released on August 20, setting the stage for one of the most talked-about debuts in recent memory.

As anticipation builds, Aryan Khan’s first project signals not only a personal milestone but also the arrival of a new narrative voice - one that dares to playfully dissect the very industry it was born into.

Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan treats fans to a surprise; announces the teaser drop of the directorial debut of his son Aryan Khan on August 17

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2025 turned into a star-studded celebration as Indian cinema’s finest talents were honoured at the prestigious Awards Night. Applause, emotion, and pride filled the air as filmmaker Neeraj Ghaywan’s poignant drama Homebound emerged as the evening’s biggest winner, bagging both Best Film and Best Director.

Bollywood icon Aamir Khan was conferred with the coveted Excellence in Cinema Award, recognising his unparalleled legacy and contribution to Indian cinema. Speaking about his win, Aamir Khan said, “I have been attracted to telling stories from a very young age. Filmmaking is a collaborative art and this award and recognition wouldn’t have been possible without my writers, directors, co-stars, and the audiences who have given me the opportunity to tell the stories and be part of the many stories I have been part of.”

Meanwhile, Abhishek Bachchan delivered an emotional moment on stage as he won Best Actor (Male) – Film for I Want to Talk. Abhishek Bachchan, visibly moved after his Best Actor win, added, “Life has come a full circle for me. I came here in 2022 where I was feted with the excellence in cinema award for my body of work. But this is an emotional moment for me to get the best actor on this very stage and be recognised for my role in a film that’s extremely special to me. It was 3 years back in Melbourne at this same festival where Shoojit Da offered me this role in I Want To Talk. It was Shoojit Da who believed in me that I could pull off this role and this role is an ode to my father and my daughter because it’s about caring and raising a parent.”

The festival’s winners reflected the incredible diversity and depth of Indian storytelling across formats. Homebound was declared Best Film, while Neeraj Ghaywan won Best Director for the same. Angammal earned the title of Best Indie Film with Gugun Kigpen receiving a Special Mention for Boong. Geetha Kailasam won Best Actor (Female) – Film for her performance in Angammal.

The television segment saw Black Warrant win Best Series, with Jaideep Ahlawat taking home Best Actor (Male) – Series for Paatal Lok Season 2, and Nimisha Sajayan winning Best Actor (Female) – Series for Dabba Cartel. Reflecting on the journey, Jaideep said "This award is truly overwhelming. To be recognized on an international platform like the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne is an honor I will cherish forever. Hathiram Chaudhary's journey has been an extraordinary one, and this award belongs to the entire team who poured their heart and soul into making Paatal Lok what it is today. I’m deeply grateful to the jury and, most importantly, to the audience for their love and support. This is for all of you."

Among the honorary recognitions, Arvind Swamy was celebrated with the Leadership in Cinema Award, Vir Das was honoured with the Disruptor Award, Aditi Rao Hydari was recognised for Diversity in Cinema, and Baksho Bondi won the Equality in Cinema Award. Arvind Swamy shared his happiness over the award and stated, “I’m still a student of cinema even though I have been given leadership in cinema for my work. If anyone offers me role even today that’s in my comfort zone, I wouldn’t do it, I always want roles that challenge me. I’m grateful for the recognition to be given the Leadership in Cinema award at IFFM 2025.”

Other categories included the short film  where Kalar Pencils by Dhananjay Santosh Goregaonkar won Best Short Film (India), while Drifters by David Liu was awarded Best Short Film (Australia).

Now in its 16th edition, IFFM has once again reaffirmed its status as the largest Indian film festival outside of India, bringing together filmmakers, stars, and audiences in a grand celebration of cinema. The festival continues until August 24, with Homebound serving as the closing film.

Also Read: Aamir Khan inaugurates Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2025 with Gauri Spratt; unveils opening night film Baksho Bondi

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2025 turned into a star-studded celebration as Indian cinema’s finest talents were honoured at the prestigious Awards Night. Applause, emotion, and pride filled the air as filmmaker Neeraj Ghaywan’s poignant drama Homebound emerged as the evening’s biggest winner, bagging both Best Film and Best Director.

Bollywood icon Aamir Khan was conferred with the coveted Excellence in Cinema Award, recognising his unparalleled legacy and contribution to Indian cinema. Speaking about his win, Aamir Khan said, “I have been attracted to telling stories from a very young age. Filmmaking is a collaborative art and this award and recognition wouldn’t have been possible without my writers, directors, co-stars, and the audiences who have given me the opportunity to tell the stories and be part of the many stories I have been part of.”

Meanwhile, Abhishek Bachchan delivered an emotional moment on stage as he won Best Actor (Male) – Film for I Want to Talk. Abhishek Bachchan, visibly moved after his Best Actor win, added, “Life has come a full circle for me. I came here in 2022 where I was feted with the excellence in cinema award for my body of work. But this is an emotional moment for me to get the best actor on this very stage and be recognised for my role in a film that’s extremely special to me. It was 3 years back in Melbourne at this same festival where Shoojit Da offered me this role in I Want To Talk. It was Shoojit Da who believed in me that I could pull off this role and this role is an ode to my father and my daughter because it’s about caring and raising a parent.”

The festival’s winners reflected the incredible diversity and depth of Indian storytelling across formats. Homebound was declared Best Film, while Neeraj Ghaywan won Best Director for the same. Angammal earned the title of Best Indie Film with Gugun Kigpen receiving a Special Mention for Boong. Geetha Kailasam won Best Actor (Female) – Film for her performance in Angammal.

The television segment saw Black Warrant win Best Series, with Jaideep Ahlawat taking home Best Actor (Male) – Series for Paatal Lok Season 2, and Nimisha Sajayan winning Best Actor (Female) – Series for Dabba Cartel. Reflecting on the journey, Jaideep said "This award is truly overwhelming. To be recognized on an international platform like the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne is an honor I will cherish forever. Hathiram Chaudhary's journey has been an extraordinary one, and this award belongs to the entire team who poured their heart and soul into making Paatal Lok what it is today. I’m deeply grateful to the jury and, most importantly, to the audience for their love and support. This is for all of you."

Among the honorary recognitions, Arvind Swamy was celebrated with the Leadership in Cinema Award, Vir Das was honoured with the Disruptor Award, Aditi Rao Hydari was recognised for Diversity in Cinema, and Baksho Bondi won the Equality in Cinema Award. Arvind Swamy shared his happiness over the award and stated, “I’m still a student of cinema even though I have been given leadership in cinema for my work. If anyone offers me role even today that’s in my comfort zone, I wouldn’t do it, I always want roles that challenge me. I’m grateful for the recognition to be given the Leadership in Cinema award at IFFM 2025.”

Other categories included the short film  where Kalar Pencils by Dhananjay Santosh Goregaonkar won Best Short Film (India), while Drifters by David Liu was awarded Best Short Film (Australia).

Now in its 16th edition, IFFM has once again reaffirmed its status as the largest Indian film festival outside of India, bringing together filmmakers, stars, and audiences in a grand celebration of cinema. The festival continues until August 24, with Homebound serving as the closing film.

Also Read: Aamir Khan inaugurates Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2025 with Gauri Spratt; unveils opening night film Baksho Bondi

The wait for one of Bollywood’s most anticipated sequels is finally over. On the occasion of India’s 79th Independence Day, the makers of Border 2 unveiled the film’s first poster along with its official release date. The war drama, inspired by true stories, is set to hit theatres on January 22, 2026, giving audiences the perfect build-up to the extended Republic Day weekend.

The timing of the announcement serves as a tribute to India’s Bravehearts, echoing the patriotic sentiment that made the original Border a landmark film in Indian cinema. The newly released poster showcases Sunny Deol back in his most memorable role — a battle-hardened soldier — dressed in military gear and gripping a bazooka with fierce determination. With an intense gaze and the weight of duty etched on his face, Deol embodies the courage and sacrifice of the Indian armed forces, ready to once again lead audiences into an emotionally charged cinematic battlefield.

Speaking about the announcement, producer Bhushan Kumar said, “Border is more than a film — it’s an emotion for every Indian. With Border 2, we aim to carry forward that legacy and bring it to a new generation. The new release date gives audiences more time to come together and experience the film in theatres during an extended Republic Day weekend.”

Producer Nidhi Dutta added, “The first Border was a heartfelt salute to our armed forces. This time, we return with the same passion, a fresh story, and a promise to evoke the same pride and tears in every theatre. With the new release date, we are happy to bring the film to cinemas sooner, allowing audiences to enjoy a longer Republic Day weekend.”

Director Anurag Singh highlighted the significance of the Independence Day reveal, stating, “Announcing the date on Independence Day is symbolic. This day reminds us of the sacrifices made by our soldiers for India’s freedom and so does our film. It’s an honour and a privilege to honour their undying spirit through this story.”

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Directed by Anurag Singh, Border 2 features an ensemble cast including Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh, Ahan Shetty, Medha Rana, Mona Singh, and Sonam Bajwa. The film is produced by Bhushan Kumar and J.P. Dutta, with production support from Krishan Kumar and Nidhi Dutta, under the banners of T-Series and J.P. Films.

Backed by a powerful production team including Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, J.P. Dutta, and Nidhi Dutta, Border 2 promises to uphold the emotional intensity and patriotic fervour of its predecessor while introducing a new generation of viewers to its legacy. With its release timed to coincide with a long Republic Day weekend, the film is poised to deliver a stirring tribute to the heroism and indomitable spirit of the Indian soldier.

Audiences can gear up for what promises to be a monumental saga of patriotism, courage, and sacrifice as Border 2 storms into cinemas nationwide on January 22, 2026.

Also Read: BREAKING: CBFC passes date announcement teaser of Border 2 with a U/A 16+ certificate