2 days are left for the release of Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari and the advance booking has commenced in full swing. As expected, the censor process was completed by the makers in time, six days before the release, to be precise. In this exclusive story, Bollywood Hungama will focus on the cut list of the romcom.

Fans will be happy to know that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) passed the film with just two cuts. Firstly, the word ‘guard’ has been muted, wherever it occurs. It probably seems to be a part of the scene where Varun Dhawan’s character Sunny utters a derogatory word and then claims that he actually mentioned ‘guard’.

The other cut is that the Examining Committee of the CBFC has reduced lip-lock visuals by 60%. Lastly, the makers were asked to add the anti-alcohol static.

Once these changes were made, Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari was passed with a U/A 13+ certificate. The length of the film, as mentioned on the censor certificate, is 135.45 minutes. In other words, Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari is 2 hours, 15 minutes and 45 seconds long.

Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari is all set to release worldwide on October 2 and stars Varun Dhawan, Janhvi Kapoor, Sanya Malhotra, Rohit Saraf, Maniesh Paul, Akshay Oberoi and Abhinav Sharma. It is directed by Shashank Khaitan and produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions and Shashank's Mentor Disciple Entertainment.

The trailer launch of Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari was held on September 15 in Mumbai. The whole team of the film was present, except Sanya Malhotra. When the host asked about Sanya’s whereabouts, Varun Dhawan said, “Sanya is a very important part of the team. Sabse best baal unke hi hai! We have got a cut-out of Sanya so that we don't miss her!”

The host asked the attendees for “a big round of applause” as Sanya Malhotra’s cutout arrived on the stage. Maniesh Paul, in his trademark style, raised laughs, “Pehli baar, Sanya sabse jaldi tayyar bhi hai kyunki baal, make up kuch nahin karna pada! As it is, woh aa gayi hai!”

Also Read: Varun Dhawan REACTS to clash between Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari and Kantara Chapter 1

Rishab Shetty, Rukmini Vasanth, producer Chaluve Gowda of Hombale Films and distributor Anil Thadani and costume designer Pragathi Shetty attended the press meet of their film Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1 at a five-star hotel in Mumbai. Many attendees were upset as, despite the event being called a ‘press meet’, there was no Q-and-A session with the media. Instead, it was more of a moderated conversation between the host and the team of the film. However, in this conversation, Rishab Shetty opened up like never before about his journey.

Rishab Shetty revealed, “For me, Mumbai is very special. In 2008, I used to work as an office boy in a production house in Andheri. I was a driver for a producer (smiles). I am an example that cinema ek insaan ke saath kya kar sakta hai and it’s proven by the fact that I have reached here. I have got so much recognition, love, respect and blessings.”

Talking more about his Andheri days, Rishabh said, “On the road where the film production houses were located, we used to have wada pav. I never imagined then that I’d reach this stage!”

Costume designer Pragathi Shetty talked highly of her hubby, “For Rishab, cinema is everything. Life and cinema are not different from him. He’s thinking about only cinema, cinema and cinema 24x7 (smiles). This project was not at all easy. He was the writer, actor and director and hence, he had to put in a lot of effort. He was very dedicated and he was quite drained physically, mentally and emotionally. But due to the blessings of our daivas and audience, we managed to pull off the film.”

Pragathi continued, “Last time, when we made a small Kannada movie (Kantara; 2002), you all gave us so much love and support. As a result, he had to do something to return the favour to the audience.”

Rishab Shetty also spoke highly of his wife and her talent, “Often people say that just because she’s my wife, she is the designer in the film. Aisa nahin hai.”

Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1 releases in cinemas on October 2.

Also Read: Rishab Shetty reveals how Hombale Films shaped Kantara: Chapter 1: “They were involved in every step”

The ongoing debate over the ideal gap between theatrical releases and OTT premieres has found two of Bollywood’s biggest stars on opposite ends. After Aamir Khan recently advocated for a six-month window to protect the theatrical business, Akshay Kumar has voiced his disagreement, suggesting that a shorter gap is more practical for all stakeholders.

In a conversation with ABP Live, Akshay stressed that OTT platforms, which invest heavily in digital rights, also deserve fair treatment. “According to me, a three-month gap is okay. Six months is too long because at the end of the day, the OTT platform is paying you for the digital rights. They also need to benefit from the deal,” he said.

The actor-producer added that the industry should return to the pre-pandemic model, where theatres and streaming platforms co-existed without friction. “When it comes to digital rights sale, producers happily take money from the OTT platform. But when we want to, we also conveniently say our films aren’t working because of OTT. We don’t consider that maybe we’re not making the right films,” he remarked.

Akshay admitted he consumes a significant amount of OTT content himself, not just for entertainment but also to scout talent for his own projects. “I don’t have any other work than making movies. Since I’m not educated, I do only movies. So, I get a lot of time to watch OTT,” he shared. Acknowledging his journey, he added, “Thirty percent is hard work, which should feel like you’ve done 100% hard work, but you also need that 70% luck to make it. When I enter a studio, I often see a struggler better looking, a better dancer, and who does better action than me, but he hasn’t gotten a chance yet.”

His comments come in the backdrop of Aamir Khan’s evolving perspective on the theatrical-to-OTT window. The Laal Singh Chaddha star has long criticized the shrinking gap, blaming it for dwindling footfalls in cinemas. After Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies underperformed theatrically but found immense popularity upon its Netflix release, Aamir doubled down on his call for a minimum six-month gap.

At present, most films follow an eight-week theatrical-to-digital model.

Also Read: Akshay Kumar and other celebs shower love on Aryan Khan’s directorial debut The Ba***ds of Bollywood

Raashii Khanna takes on a significant role in 120 Bahadur, a war drama produced by Excel Entertainment. The recently released teaser gives a glimpse of the film, which highlights the bravery of the Ahir soldiers of Charlie Company, 13 Kumaon regiment, during the Battle of Rezang La.

Alongside Farhan Akhtar, Raashii Khanna adds an emotional touch to this story of sacrifice and bravery. Having worked across languages and genres, she now collaborates with one of Bollywood’s most versatile actors to bring a narrative that is both heartfelt and impactful.

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120 Bahadur is presented as a tribute to the courage of soldiers who showed remarkable bravery. The teaser has drawn attention from audiences, hinting at a film that combines emotion with heroism. Backed by Excel Entertainment, the project aims to deliver on scale and authenticity, with Raashii Khanna’s role adding to its emotional appeal.

Scheduled to release in cinemas on 21st November, 120 Bahadur brings forward a story of bravery meant to leave a lasting impact. Apart from this film, Raashii Khanna will also be seen in a suspense thriller with R. Madhavan and will return in Farzi Season 2. She is currently working on Ustaad Bhagat Singh opposite Telugu star Pawan Kalyan and will team up again with Vikrant Massey in Talakhon Mein Ek. Her Telugu project Telusu Kada has also received positive response, strengthening her presence across multiple film industries.

With this range of upcoming projects, Raashii Khanna continues to showcase her versatility and strengthen her position as one of the notable actors of her generation.

Also Read : Raashii Khanna shares candid BTS with Vikrant Massey from Talakhon Mein Ek sets; watch

Bollywood star Ranbir Kapoor turned 43, and his birthday was made all the more special by a deeply personal gesture from his young daughter, Raha Kapoor. His wife, Alia Bhatt, took to Instagram to post a series of pictures capturing intimate family moments, with the highlight being a sweet handwritten note from Raha.

In the handwritten letter, young Raha addressed her father with tender affection, writing, “Happy Birthday best papa in the world.” Among the pictures were images of Raha and Ranbir’s hands together as they cut a slice of his birthday cake, and a shot of Alia and Ranbir embracing against a serene sunset backdrop. Alia’s Instagram caption read, “happy birthday our whole and soul.”

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Later in the day, Ranbir appeared on Instagram Live via his lifestyle brand Arks, responding to fan questions and sharing the heartfelt gift from his daughter. He revealed, “Raha made me a promise that she will give me 43 kisses, so I got that!”

Raha, born on November 8, 2022, is the daughter of Ranbir and Alia, who had kept her face largely private until it was revealed during the Kapoor family’s Christmas luncheon in 2023.

On the work front, Ranbir is slated to appear in Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana, which features an ensemble cast including Sai Pallavi, Yash, Ravi Dubey, Sunny Deol, and Lara Dutta. The first part is scheduled to release on Diwali 2026. He will also share the screen with Alia and Vicky Kaushal in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s upcoming film Love & War.

Also Read : From Mouni Roy to Alia Bhatt: Bollywood celebs show how faux fur and knee high boots make every outfit pop

The rom-com De De Pyaar De (2019) was a decent box office success, thanks to its unusual storyline, hilarious moments, strong performances, and songs. Hence, there was a lot of excitement when it was reported that a sequel to De De Pyaar De is in the works. The film is now almost ready and less than two months away from release. And if sources are to be believed, then the first asset is all set to drop in the first half of October.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “The makers plan to launch the teaser of De De Pyaar De 2 on October 12. A clearer picture will emerge in a few days, but as of now, this date has been seriously considered by the team.”

The source further said, “The makers are excited about the film and the teaser will give a small hint about the film’s theme, madness and its principal characters. It's sure to enhance the buzz for the romantic comedy.”

De De Pyaar De starred Ajay Devgn, Rakul Preet Singh and Tabu. It told the story of a 50-year-old divorcee who gets into a relationship with a 26-year-old girl. The first part was directed by Akiv Ali and focused on the chaos that ensues when the man tries to win the approval of his family for his newfound love. De De Pyaar De 2 is directed by Anshul Sharma and it marks the entry of R Madhavan as Rakul’s father. As per reports, it is the story of a hilarious one-upmanship that will ensue between Ajay and Madhavan, over Rakul’s character dating a man older than her father. Both films are backed by Luv Films and T-Series. It’ll be released in cinemas on November 14.

A few days ago, it came to light that a promotional song of De De Pyaar De 2 was shot at a restobar in Mumbai. Pictures from the sets were widely shared by fans of Ajay Devgn.

Also Read: REVEALED: Ajay Devgn’s NY Cinemas merges with Vishwa Samudra Group; to be renamed Devgn CineX

Deepa Mehta, the first wife of filmmaker-actor Mahesh Manjrekar, has passed away. Their son, Satya Manjrekar, confirmed the news and shared a heartfelt tribute via Instagram.

Satya posted a photograph of his mother, captioning it: “I miss you Mumma.” In the aftermath of her demise, numerous friends and acquaintances offered condolences, many of which Satya reshared in his Instagram Stories. One well-wisher expressed, “Lost a guiding light today. She was more than a mother, she was an inspiration. Her strength, courage and passion in building her saree business empowered so many girls to dream big. She will always live on through the lives she touched and the paths she paved. Prayers and strengths to you Satya. May her inspiring soul give you courage.”

Deepa Mehta was a noted costume designer and also ran a saree label called Queen of Hearts, which found considerable appreciation in the Marathi film industry.

Mahesh Manjrekar and Deepa had been married in 1987, having known each other since their college days. During their marriage, they welcomed two children daughter Ashwami and son Satya. Their union ended in 1995, after which their children stayed with Mahesh. Later, Mahesh married actress Medha Manjrekar, and they have a daughter, Saiee, who ventured into acting with roles in Dabangg 3, Major, and Kuch Khattaa Ho Jaay.

As the film fraternity and fans mourn, Satya’s tribute captures both personal grief and the broader recognition of Deepa’s legacy.

The Ba***ds Of Bollywood has brought back Rajat Bedi into limelight. The fans are aware of his filmography as an actor, but not many know about his journey before he got his acting break. In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, Rajat Bedi went down memory lane starting from the time he assisted in a film starring Shah Rukh Khan.

Rajat Bedi began by saying, “I assisted in Zamaana Deewana (1995) and also in one TV show of Ramesh Sippy ji, Kismat. Then, I wanted to get into modelling, but I was not aware as to how to go about it like kaunse office jaau aur kya karu. Fortunately, a big show was announced at that time called Gladrags Manhunt. It was headed by Maureen Wadia of Bombay Dyeing. A family member told me, ‘Rajat, you are tall, good-looking; why don’t you give it a shot?’. I decided to give it a try, hoping that I would get some modelling assignments.”

He added, “I met Maureen ji. He saw that ladka theek thaak lag raha hai. She asked for my photographs. When I told her that I didn’t have them, she told me to do the needful. I replied, ‘Mere paas paise nahin hai’! I was genuinely broke. She immediately called up Ashok Salian, a very big photographer at that time. She told him, ‘This boy is coming to meet you. Click his pictures’. She saw my snaps and enrolled me into the pageant. There were 30 contestants from all over India and I was one of them.”

Surprisingly, Rajat Bedi felt that he had no chance of winning the pageant, “I was quite excited and started to exercise. It was a big thing as Gladrags was a huge magazine. The first prize was a beautiful car and an all-expenses-paid trip to Singapore. When I heard about it, I told myself, ‘Apne ko toh milna nahin hai’. I was hoping that I would be noticed if I were on stage. After all, the who’s who of the ad world were going to be present.”

He continued, “The show was held at Oberoi Hotel, Mumbai. The Jeep, which was the winning prize, was parked and it was outstandingly beautiful. I had a look at the Jeep and I left. The other contestants were clicking pictures with the vehicle. They were hopeful that they might get to own the car while I was sure that I was not going to be the winner! Wahaan dekhna hi kyun jahaan jaana hi nahin hai (laughs)?”

Rajat Bedi then revealed, “I went inside and met Raveena Tandon, who was the judge. I had worked with her in Zamaana Deewana and so, she was very happy to see me. Just before I went on stage, I got nervous. I went to the bar to drink water. By mistake, I ended up breaking 8 glasses! I wondered, ‘Kaanch tootna hamare mein good luck hai’ (smiles).”

He stated, “My wife, who was then my girlfriend of 7 years, and my friend Monty Sabharwal, were present in the audience. From 30, the judges shortlisted 15 contestants and then further shortened the list to 10 followed by 5 and then 3. I managed to be in the top 3. Finally, I won the show. I couldn’t believe how it happened. Kuch toh magic hua tha.”

Throwback to the pictures of #RajatBedi aka #JarajSaxena of The Ba***ds Of Bollywood during his modelling days. He was also the first winner of the Gladrags Manhunt Contest India in 1994 pic.twitter.com/Zaz8Hlm7lF — Fenil Seta (@fenil_seta) September 27, 2025

Rajat Bedi said that thanks to The Ba***ds Of Bollywood, he feels the same at present, the way he felt then, in 1994, “That time of my life and the present-day have been magic periods of my life. I was 22 years old. Today, I am 53. 31 years later, life has come a full circle.”

Rajat then talked about his journey after the victory, “Suddenly, I blew up all over India. I became the manhunt international top male model in the country. Later on, Dino Morea, John Abraham etc. also won the Gladrags contest. The same year, I was sent to Australia in November for the world final. I came in the top 3 over there. When I returned, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Sushmita Sen won Miss World and Miss Universe, respectively. Aaj kal bahut photos chal rahi hai meri aur Aishwarya ki. We were being celebrated. I won the male beauty pageant while they won the female beauty pageants. We globally made a name for ourselves the same year.”

As expected, a shift to cinema was inevitable, “That’s how I started getting attention and it was followed by film offers. I was going to be launched by Pankaj Parashar and Tutu Sharma in a film called Rajkumar (1996). It also starred Anil Kapoor and Madhuri Dixit. It was going to be a huge film. Sadly, that film didn’t work at all and Pankaj Parashar and Tutu Sharma had a fight. That’s how my career came to a standstill. Then Pravin Shah of Time Audio Video and Keshu Ramsay, who were big producers then, saw me and Raj Sippy directed me with 2001: Do Hazaar Ek (1988). It also starred Tabu. That song ‘Tu Qatil Tera Dil Qatil’ has once again become so popular. It’s my favourite song. Poori janta paagal ho rahi hai yeh gaane ke saath. It is being loved and how (laughs).”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Rajat Bedi on cloud nine with The Ba***ds Of Bollywood response; reveals his condition to Aryan: “I told him, ‘I started my career with your father; my son will start his career with you’”; opens up on his scene with Shah Rukh Khan: “I felt COMPLETE”

Bollywood Hungama was the first one to break the viral news that AA Films, the distributors of Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1, have asked for 100% showcasing in single-screen, two-screen and even three-screen multiplexes. The news shocked the trade and industry as it was an attempt to ensure that the Varun Dhawan-starrer Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari, which also releases on the same day as the Rishab Shetty-starrer, doesn’t get sufficient shows. Meanwhile, the exhibition community was waiting to see what Dharma Productions, the producers as well as distributors of Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari, had to say about showcasing. Bollywood Hungama has learned that in the evening of September 27, they sent their list of requirements to exhibitors across the country.

An exhibition source told Bollywood Hungama, “The distribution team of Dharma Productions has asked cinemas that they want their film to be played in minimum 1 audi in 2-screen cinemas, that too in all shows. This means that they are asking for 50% showcasing in two-screen theatres. However, they have the same demand of 1 audi in three-screen theatres as well. And that’s not all. Even in multiplexes with four screens, their demand is the same – all shows in one of the 4 screens. Finally, for theatres with 5 screens or more, their request is for showcasing in minimum 2 audis.”

In short, Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari’s distributors have asked for 50% showcasing in 2-screen cinemas, 33% showcasing in 3-screen multiplexes and 25% showcasing in 4-screen theatres. Industry sources have called it a fair demand. An insider commented, “Dharma is being realistic as they are aware that Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1 is a bigger and more expensive film than theirs. But they are also making it clear that their product is also worth it and asking for reasonable showcasing.”

A trade expert revealed, “It now remains to be seen if AA Films softens its stand and allows Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari to go ahead with their demand. Interestingly, the mail sent by Dharma has no mention of their requirement in the single-screen cinemas.”

What Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1’s distributors have demanded

Besides asking for 100% showcasing in single-screen, two-screen and three-screen multiplexes, AA Films has demanded 21 shows of Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1 in four-screen theatres, 27 shows in five-screen cinemas, 30 shows in six-screen multiplexes, 36 shows in seven-screen multiplexes, 42 shows in eight-screen multiplexes, 48 shows in nine-screen plexes and a whopping 54 shows in 10-screen theatres.

The trade expert remarked, “Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1 is 2 hours and 48 minutes long. So, including interval and other aspects, cinemas will play each show in a slot of 3 hours and 10 minutes. It could be even more in certain multiplexes that start shows 10-15 minutes late. Hence, each screen can’t have more than 5 shows of Kantara. Some screens can accommodate 6 shows if the first show begins very early or if the last show is played around midnight. By this arrangement, most cinemas will have no choice but to only play Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1 in all screens! Very few screens will be able to allot only a couple of shows to Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari. Going by past experiences, it is clear that this won’t happen and the Dharma film will eventually get sufficient showcasing. However, the negotiations and talks might go up to October 1, that is, a day before the release, leading to headaches for the distributors as well as the exhibition community.”

Also Read: Janhvi Kapoor turns rickshaw driver for Maniesh Paul in Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari BTS fun video; watch

Filmmaker Sriram Raghavan’s crime saga Johnny Gaddaar completes 18 years today. This also marks Neil Nitin Mukesh’s 18 years in cinema as the movie was his big launch. Also starring Dharmendra, Vinay Pathak, Zakir Hussain, Ashwini Kalsekar, Rimi Sen and Dayanand Shetty, the film is considered a landmark crime thriller in Hindi cinema.

In an exclusive chat with Bollywood Hungama earlier this year, Neil Nitin Mukesh looked back at the film and the roadblocks it faced. “It is 18 years since the release,” he said. “The shoot has completed 20 years. The film was stuck for around a year and a half because of financial issues. We started making it in 2005 and it got completed and released in 2007. Johnny Gaddaar is one of those iconic films that will always remain one of the top-billing thrillers to come out of Indian cinema.”

Neil had revealed earlier this year that he was offered two films to choose from for his debut – Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na and Johnny Gaddaar. Sharing why the choice was important for him, he said, “I knew that I was getting just one chance. I was told that I will get just one film. People had thrown a lot of questions at me, like, ‘Tum toh ek singer ke bete ho, tum acting kar paoge?’ So, it was very important for me to choose that film. It was important for me to choose a film through which maybe such questions are not raised on me again. And Johnny Gaddaar was that film.”

Neil was amazed by the final product. “Johnny Gaddaar was a brilliant film, not just because of the story or the way it was made and how people love it, but the journey was amazing,” he said. “I learnt a lot from Sriram sir, Pooja Ladha Surti (editor), Sanjay Routray (producer) and others. Technically also I got to learn a lot.”

He also added that it wasn’t a normal debut because of the unusual subject, the way it was told and the actors he was rubbing shoulders with. “We were making a story that was very different from the point of view of a debut,” he said. “I was put in the centre of all the action with such stalwart actors – Zakir Hussain, Vinay Pathak, Dayashankar Shetty, Govind Namdev, Dharam ji and Rimi Sen. It was such a great bouquet of stars. And all fantastic actors. So, you had to one-up them or, at least, match them.”

Johnny Gaddaar is also special for Neil because of a reason related to his grandfather and legendary singer Mukesh. “For me it was a dream come true that my debut was with Dharam ji because his first ever song was sung by my grandfather (Mukesh). So, it came a full circle there. He bridged the gap between me not being able to meet my grandfather ever. That was the kind of love he gave me,” he said.

Also Read: Neil Nitin Mukesh celebrates daughter Nurvi’s 7th birthday with adorable photos

You recently shot with Khushi Kapoor for a clothing brand (Arrow). Was this your first major ad campaign? Not really my first campaign—I’ve done a few before. What makes this one special is that the campaign is addressing something very relatable to our generation, and it’s also something I personally connect with. I’m glad to be part of a brand that’s sparking this conversation.

What was it like shooting with Khushi Kapoor? It’s always a good experience shooting with her. We’ve done quite a few campaigns together, and of course, we spent a lot of time on the series The Archies. So, there’s a natural comfort when we work together.

How different is it shooting for an ad as compared to a feature film? An ad is way quicker—it usually takes a day or two at most. Things move really fast, so you have to conserve your energy and keep up with the pace. But, of course, it’s not as creatively satisfying as playing a character in a film.

Would you endorse a product that you wouldn’t use? No, not at all. I’ve been fortunate that the brands approaching me are ones I genuinely believe in. These are products I would use myself or even recommend to my family.

When do you start shooting for Imtiaz Ali’s film? The shoot has already begun. I’ll soon be traveling to Punjab for my major schedule, and I’m really excited about that.

What did you think of your friend Aryan Khan’s series The Bads of Bollywood? I think the show is a really enjoyable watch. I haven’t laughed like this in a while! I loved the performances—it’s the perfect masala entertainer. I’ve been recommending it to everyone.

Also Read: Vedang Raina and Khushi Kapoor join hands as new brand ambassadors of Arrow; bring fresh energy to campaigns

Actor Rajat Bedi, currently in the spotlight for his role as Jaraj Saxena in the Netflix show The Ba***ds of Bollywood, has responded to the growing social media comparisons between his daughter Vera Bedi and Bollywood star Kareena Kapoor Khan.

The comparisons surged after Vera walked the red carpet alongside her father at the premiere of The Ba***ds of Bollywood in Mumbai. Several users posted comments such as “Better than Kareena with blue eyes,” “More beautiful than Kareena,” and “Kareena’s aura is her aura, but she also looks alike, which we can’t deny.”

Reflecting on the media attention, Rajat told Hindustan Times, “My whole family has got into the spotlight. It's not just me alone. My children are exposed right now because of me and the show. They have gone viral, and it’s crazy.” He added of Vera, “She is just overwhelmed... because that attention is not just from India, but global… People are calling from America, Canada, London, Dubai, everywhere. She is so simple, and she has never been exposed to anything like this. This is the first time in her life that she has gone to a red carpet event with her father. She is so simple.”

When asked whether he had guided his children on managing such public attention, Rajat admitted, “No, I have not yet spoken to them about how to deal with it. But they know they have to be humble, respectful with any and everyone. You'll never see my children have any attitude or anything with anyone… That being said, this is all so new to them and they are also overwhelmed.”

Moreover, Rajat confirmed that both Vera and their son Vivaan Bedi are now contemplating dipping their toes into the entertainment industry. He revealed, “When we talk about my son, planning is going on to launch him right now. So, God willing, you'll see something on that soon.” He also said about Vera, “She is thinking about it. She never did, but now she is.”

As the public continues drawing parallels between Vera and a seasoned star like Kareena, Rajat Bedi and his children adjust to newfound attention and the possibility of stepping into the limelight themselves.

Also Read : Rajat Bedi opens up on Shah Rukh Khan’s support and his big comeback in Aryan Khan’s show

According to a new report, Bollywood action star John Abraham is set to team up with Lucky Bhaskar actress Meenakshi Chaudhary in the highly anticipated Force 3. The development comes after industry speculation about the direction and casting for the next instalment in the Force franchise.

A source close to Pinkvilla revealed, “After auditioning several actresses, John Abraham and Bhav Dhulia have locked Meenakshi Chaudhary as the female lead. Like John, she too will have an action-oriented role and is expected to undergo intensive training over the next few months to prepare for the part.”

The report further stated, “Pre-production is progressing rapidly. John will shift his focus to Force 3 as soon as he wraps up shooting for the Rakesh Maria biopic directed by Rohit Shetty. That project is expected to conclude by the end of October, setting Force 3 up for a release in the first half of 2026.”

As of now, no public confirmation has come from John Abraham, Meenakshi Chaudhary, or the film’s producers. But if the report holds true, it promises a fresh pairing and a new energy to a franchise known for its high-octane action.

In 2016, the sequel Force 2, directed by Abhinay Deo, created quite a buzz and introduced audiences to Sonakshi Sinha and Tahir Raj Bhasin in completely new avatars. By 2023, the film completed seven years since its release, continuing to be cherished by fans. As the second installment of the Force franchise, it carried the story forward while cementing its place as one of the first series to pay tribute to the concept of a strong, macho hero. Abhinay successfully built on the legacy of Force, earning widespread appreciation from followers of the franchise.

Also Read : 15 Years of We Are Family EXCLUSIVE: “John Abraham was in consideration” – Siddharth P Malhotra explains how Arjun Rampal landed the role of father-of-two-children

Akansha Ranjan Kapoor knows how to make a statement both on and off screen. And when it comes to her travel diaries, it’s safe to say that she is a certified beach bae. The actress often shares glimpses from her tropical getaways, and her Instagram is filled with swoon-worthy pictures that blend her chic fashion sense with dreamy coastal vibes.

On this World Tourism Day, here are 5 pictures that prove Akansha is living her best life by the beach.

Golden Hour Glow

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Akansha’s sunset pictures by the beach are straight out of a postcard. With the orange sky behind her and waves crashing at her feet, she radiates pure vacay energy.

Sunkissed Chic

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In breezy resort wear, Akansha shows us how to nail the perfect sunkissed look. Minimal makeup, natural waves, and a relaxed pose by the shore—her beach style is effortless yet striking.

Poolside Goddess

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Whether it’s lounging by an infinity pool or sipping on a tropical drink, Akansha’s poolside shots prove she knows how to unwind in style. Her swimwear choices always strike the right balance between trendy and classy.

Island Explorer

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From white sandy beaches to turquoise waters, Akansha’s island pictures highlight her love for exploring new coastal escapes. With her radiant smile and vacation-ready vibe, she makes us want to plan our own beach holiday.

Vacation Mood On

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Be it a candid laugh with friends or a solo shot against the waves, Akansha’s pictures embody the carefree spirit of vacations. She’s not just serving looks but also giving us major travel goals.

Also Read: Alia Bhatt joins bestie Akansha Ranjan Kapoor’s birthday bash in Alibaug; Inside photos from poolside fun go viral

Netflix India has made history at the 53rd International Emmy Awards 2025, securing two prestigious nominations that spotlight its storytelling on the global stage. The streaming giant’s acclaimed film Amar Singh Chamkila has been nominated in the TV Movie/Mini-Series category, while its lead star, Diljit Dosanjh, has been recognised in the Best Performance by an Actor category. Notably, Amar Singh Chamkila stands tall as the only Indian title competing at this year’s International Emmys.

Directed by Imtiaz Ali and produced by Mohit Choudhary, Select Media Holdings LLP, Saregama, and Window Seat Films, the film has been celebrated for its powerful storytelling, stellar performances, and music by Academy Award winner A.R. Rahman with lyrics by Irshad Kaamil.

Reflecting on the global recognition, director Imtiaz Ali said, “Amar Singh Chamkila is a rare film because it has to do with the scent of the land of Panjab- its music, its socio-politics, its conflict, its aspirations, and its many problems. The fact that conflict creates art creates conflict was represented through the life of Amar Singh Chamkila in this film. We are all very happy that we could bring the story of Chamkila, such a unique individual, to the fore… Congratulations Team! Also, thank you Netflix, for believing blindly in this film from the beginning to the end.”

Lead actor Diljit Dosanjh, who brought to life the legendary Punjabi singer Chamkila on screen, also expressed his gratitude: “I feel truly honored Amar Singh Chamkila, an artist from Punjab, is being recognized and talked about at a global level on such a prestigious stage like the International Emmys. This nomination is not just for me, but for the entire legacy of Chamkila. I am grateful to Imtiaz Ali Sir for choosing me for the role.”

Monika Shergill, Vice President, Content, Netflix India, shared her excitement over the double nomination: “We’re thrilled that Amar Singh Chamkila has received two prestigious nominations at the International Emmys. This story is a celebration of an iconic Indian artist whose music and journey transcended boundaries… These nominations are not only a recognition of their remarkable work but also a tribute to Chamkila’s enduring legacy that continues to inspire.”

This recognition adds to Netflix India’s growing legacy at the International Emmys, where Delhi Crime won Best Drama Series in 2020 and Vir Das: Landing bagged Best Comedy in 2023. With Amar Singh Chamkila now in contention, Netflix continues to champion bold, rooted Indian stories and bring them to audiences worldwide.

Amar Singh Chamkila starring Diljit Dosanjh and Parineeti Chopra is streaming exclusively on Netflix.

Also Read: Imtiaz Ali on allegations of vulgarity against Amar Singh Chamkila’s songs, “Other Punjabi singers also sang vulgar lyrics, but why were the not equally popular?”

Vikrant Massey, one of the most celebrated actors of his generation, continues to bask in the glory of his recent achievement. Just two days after winning Best Actor at the 71st National Film Awards for his exceptional performance in 12th Fail, the actor was honoured at the prestigious Green Talks Event, hosted by industrialist Gautam Adani.

The special felicitation came as recognition of Vikrant’s inspiring portrayal of Manoj Kumar Sharma, a young man who defies extraordinary odds to become an IPS officer, a role that has struck a chord with audiences nationwide.

Speaking at the event, Gautam Adani lauded the actor’s journey and his impact beyond cinema. He said, "To the brilliant Vikrant Massey, whose 12th Fail is more than a film. Not surprisingly, just two days back he won the best actor award at the 71st National Film Awards. Vikrant represents the seed of hope planted in the hearts of millions of young Indians. His story reminds us that resilience and perseverance can break through to every failure."

At the Green Talks Event, the felicitation reinforced Vikrant’s growing influence as an artist whose work transcends cinema to inspire real change. Known for his humility and dedication, he continues to redefine excellence in Indian cinema.

The moment turned heartfelt when Vikrant took to social media to express his gratitude. Sharing a note, he wrote, “Absolutely stoked to have been appreciated & honoured by the visionary, the man himself Shri. Gautam Adani Ji… Especially on a platform like the Adani Green Talk. A podium that recognises change-makers, social entrepreneurs & purpose-driven initiatives for society at large. Thank you Sudipta Bhattacharya Ji & Mahaveer Jain Ji for an evening that shall be cherished forever.”

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Meanwhile, talking about his film, 12th Fail has been a landmark in Vikrant’s career, winning him not only accolades but also a permanent place in the hearts of audiences for its message of perseverance, hope, and resilience. From his early television days to now being a National Award-winning actor, Vikrant’s journey has been inspirational. And now, with exciting projects like White, a historical drama biopic, Vikrant Massey’s journey is only set to soar higher.

Also Read: Vikrant Massey confirms Dostana 2 with Lakshya, marks his first film with Dharma Productions: “I’m doing my first Dharma movie”

Less than a week is left for the release of Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1 and Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari. And this one is no unusual clash. As expected, fights over show sharing have begun in full force. But this time, exhibitors are left shocked with the demands put forward by the team of Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1.

A trade source said, “AA Films, the distributors of Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1 have sent a mail to exhibitors, regarding their requirement of the shows. They have demanded that all shows in single-screens and 12 shows in two screen cinemas. The latter also amounts to all shows; they mention the same clearly in the mail to avoid any confusion. Shockingly, they have also asked for 18 shows in three-screen multiplexes, which, in other words, also amounts to each and every show. They are well aware that a film like Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari is releasing alongside their flick. Yet, they have asked for such a showcasing.”

The source continued, “It’s common for distributors to demand 100% showcasing in single-screen and two-screens. But as far as we remember, this is a rare instance where a distributor has asked for all shows in a three-screen cinema.”

Many exhibitors have expressed reservations about this arrangement. An exhibitor, on condition of anonymity, told Bollywood Hungama, “I don’t agree with this unreasonable demand. We understand that Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1 is a highly anticipated film. But then, even Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari also looks like a fun entertainer, which will attract family audiences and youth. Hence, I’d like to play that film as well. We hope the makers of Kantara understand our dilemma and find a solution.”

The mail from AA Films further states that they demand 21 shows of Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1 in four-screen theatres, 27 shows in five-screen cinemas, 30 shows in six-screen multiplexes, 36 shows in seven-screen multiplexes, 42 shows in eight-screen multiplexes, 48 shows in nine-screen plexes and a whopping 54 shows in 10-screen theatres.

Further, they have also asked for 100% shows in IMAX properties. This means that Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Infinity Castle will end its glorious run in IMAX on October 1.

Also Read: Rishab Shetty and wife Pragathi seek blessings at Kollur Mookambika Temple ahead of Kantara: Chapter 1 release

Bhumi Pednekar has completed a decade in the Hindi film industry, and at the India Today Conclave, she reflected on her remarkable journey with rare candour. The actress, who made her debut with the unconventional yet powerful Dum Laga Ke Haisha in 2015, credited the film for shaping not only her career but also her perspective as an artist.

“I can’t shake off the presence that Dum Laga Ke Haisha still holds to this day. And I think that’s the power of a movie that can create impact in its truest form,” she shared, emphasizing how her debut project continues to resonate with audiences years later.

Looking back at her initial days, Bhumi recalled her beginnings as a dreamer with aspirations of becoming a heroine. “The last 10 years… you know, I started as a gawky teenager at Yash Raj Films. I had huge dreams, aspirations. I wanted to be a heroine in the Hindi film industry and I have done that. When I started off, I was somebody seeking recognition, opportunities, acceptance. But today, what I’m seeking is purpose and impact. That’s how I’ve evolved as an actor, and that’s how I’ve evolved as an individual.”

For Bhumi, her choice of films has always been about more than just performance—it has been about advocacy and representation. She highlighted how her debut film gave a voice to many who felt seen for the first time on screen. “That’s when I realized cinema is such a powerful tool that I have. And I began asking myself: how do I bring advocacy into my art?” she explained.

Citing her filmography as proof of this vision, Bhumi pointed to Toilet: Ek Prem Katha (about women’s dignity), Sonchiriya (on gender oppression), Badhaai Do (focused on LGBTQIA+ rights), and Bhakshak (on ethical journalism and child rights) as milestones in her journey. “Each film has been a step in that journey,” she said.

Despite her achievements, Bhumi remains grounded and grateful. “For me, the last 10 years have been full of gratitude. I’m living my dream every single moment. I wake up and think, kaha jaa rahi hoon? Film set pe jaa rahi hoon. Bahut kam logon ke saath hota hai yeh (where am I going? I am going to a film set, this happens only with a few people),” she said, adding that she plans to continue creating and performing “until the day I die.”

Looking ahead, Bhumi is gearing up for exciting projects including The Royals Season 2 and Amazon Prime Video’s upcoming series Daldal, among others. With a decade behind her and a purposeful vision guiding her, Bhumi Pednekar is clearly only getting started.

Also Read: Bhumi Pednekar channels “chaos” in a Maison Amali look worth Rs 1.07 lakh, see pics!

The Salman Khan-hosted reality show Bigg Boss is known for fuelling controversies inside the house. This time, however, the storm has hit its makers. Phonographic Performance Limited (PPL), India’s oldest copyright licensing organisation, has issued a legal notice to the producers of the show, alleging unauthorised use of copyrighted music.

According to the notice, which is in Mid-Day’s possession, the ongoing 19th season of Bigg Boss featured the songs ‘Chikni Chameli’ from Agneepath (2012) and ‘Dhat Teri Ki’ from Gori Tere Pyaar Mein (2013) in episode 11 that streamed on September 3, 2025. PPL India claims the producers used the tracks without securing a mandatory public performance licence.

The notice, dated September 19, was served by advocate Hiten Ajay Wasan on behalf of PPL. It names Endemol Shine India, the production house behind Bigg Boss, along with its directors Thomas Gousset, Nicolas Chazarain, and Deepak Dhar, as responsible parties.

A source from the legal team told Mid-Day that both songs are licensed to Sony Music Entertainment India, one of over 450 music labels whose public performance rights are exclusively managed by PPL. The organisation argues that because Endemol Shine India did not obtain the necessary licence under Section 30 of the Copyright Act, 1957, the act constitutes “wilful infringement.”

In the notice, PPL has demanded damages worth ₹2 crore, along with the requisite licence fees. The organisation has also issued a cease-and-desist order, barring the producers from using its sound recordings without proper authorisation.

The development adds another layer of drama to the long-running reality series, which is currently in its 19th season. The show or its makers are yet to respond publicly to the legal claims.

Also Read: Tanya Mittal’s lavish claims on Bigg Boss 19 spark internet reactions: “From Gwalior to Delhi for dal

Fresh off his historic National Award win for Best Actor for 12th Fail, the best actor of this generation, Vikrant Massey took to social media to pen a deeply emotional note of gratitude. The actor, known for his humility and sincerity both on and off screen, opened up about the overwhelming feelings that followed his big moment at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Sharing his post, Vikrant wrote, “I’ve been thinking since yesterday की मैं क्या लिखूँ? कैसे आप सबका शुक्रिया अदा करूँ? And I’m still unable to. So hopefully a simple thank you from the bottom heart would suffice  I’m grateful beyond words for your continued support in my journey. Thank you, thank you, thank you each one of you This dreamlike life is only because of you.”

The message resonated with fans, many of whom have followed Vikrant’s inspiring journey from television to films, and now to one of the highest honours in Indian cinema. His portrayal of IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma in 12th Fail has been hailed as career-defining, bringing him recognition as the Best Actor at the National Awards.

On the other hand, his wife Sheetal Thakur also shared a heartfelt post for Vikrant's first National Award win. She wrote, "Just when I feel I couldn’t be more proud, you give me another reason to be Congratulations on your first National Award  It has been my honour to be your loudest cheerleader in every room you walk in," in her Instagram post.

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Meanwhile, on the work front, Vikrant is gearing up for White. In this historical drama biopic, he portrays spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, further showcasing his versatility and dedication to meaningful cinema.

Also Read: Vikrant Massey opens up on winning National Award for 12th Fail: “Nothing short of surreal”

Ed Westwick, best known as the iconic Chuck Bass from Gossip Girl and acclaimed for roles in White Gold and Son of Rambow, recently set social media ablaze by vibing to the series’ viral track 'Ghafoor.' The actor was seen grooving in a video posted by MVM Entertainment North America, captioned “Chuck Bass X Bads of Hollywood”. The clip has since gone viral across Instagram and TikTok, quickly becoming a fan favourite. With celebrities and influencers now jumping on the trend, 'Ghafoor' is quickly becoming a global anthem.

Meanwhile, Aryan Khan’s bold Netflix debut continues to make waves. After climbing to the No.1 spot on Netflix India, The Ba****ds of Bollywood is capturing global attention, with fans praising its mix of biting satire, drama, and the jaw-dropping cameos by Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, and more.

Adding to the buzz, the show also lit up New York’s iconic Times Square billboard, marking a milestone moment for Bollywood’s global presence.

With Ed Westwick aka Chuck Bass dancing to 'Ghafoor' and fans worldwide joining in, Aryan Khan’s The Ba****ds of Bollywood has officially crossed borders — proving that this debut is more than a series, it’s a cultural movement.

The Ba***ds of Bollywood is written and directed by Aryan Khan, with Gauri Khan producing under the banner of Red Chillies Entertainment. The series features a stellar ensemble cast including Lakshya Lalwani, Bobby Deol, Mona Singh, Raghav Juyal, Anya Singh, Manoj Pahwa, Manish Chaudhari, Sahher Bambba, Gautami Kapoor, Rajat Bedi, and more. The much-awaited show premiered on Netflix on September 18, 2025.

Also Read: The Ba***ds of Bollywood: Netflix show by Aryan Khan joins hands with Boat to introduce the loudest party speaker

Ed Westwick, best known as the iconic Chuck Bass from Gossip Girl and acclaimed for roles in White Gold and Son of Rambow, recently set social media ablaze by vibing to the series’ viral track 'Ghafoor.' The actor was seen grooving in a video posted by MVM Entertainment North America, captioned “Chuck Bass X Bads of Hollywood”. The clip has since gone viral across Instagram and TikTok, quickly becoming a fan favourite. With celebrities and influencers now jumping on the trend, 'Ghafoor' is quickly becoming a global anthem.

Meanwhile, Aryan Khan’s bold Netflix debut continues to make waves. After climbing to the No.1 spot on Netflix India, The Ba****ds of Bollywood is capturing global attention, with fans praising its mix of biting satire, drama, and the jaw-dropping cameos by Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, and more.

Adding to the buzz, the show also lit up New York’s iconic Times Square billboard, marking a milestone moment for Bollywood’s global presence.

With Ed Westwick aka Chuck Bass dancing to 'Ghafoor' and fans worldwide joining in, Aryan Khan’s The Ba****ds of Bollywood has officially crossed borders — proving that this debut is more than a series, it’s a cultural movement.

The Ba***ds of Bollywood is written and directed by Aryan Khan, with Gauri Khan producing under the banner of Red Chillies Entertainment. The series features a stellar ensemble cast including Lakshya Lalwani, Bobby Deol, Mona Singh, Raghav Juyal, Anya Singh, Manoj Pahwa, Manish Chaudhari, Sahher Bambba, Gautami Kapoor, Rajat Bedi, and more. The much-awaited show premiered on Netflix on September 18, 2025.

Also Read: The Ba***ds of Bollywood: Netflix show by Aryan Khan joins hands with Boat to introduce the loudest party speaker

Actor Alia Bhatt is stepping into the YRF Spy Universe as a super agent in the female-led film Alpha, which she recently described as her “first action film.” The remark has quickly stirred chatter online, with many fans pointing out her earlier action-packed role in Jigra.

On Tuesday, Alia turned heads at the Gucci Spring/Summer 2026 Fashion Show during Milan Fashion Week 2025, where she attended as the luxury brand’s global ambassador. Dressed in a striking chevron-patterned shearling long coat layered over a lace and satin slip dress, she made a bold fashion statement. It was here that Alia, speaking on the sidelines of the show, called Alpha her “first venture into action,” a comment that has since triggered debate and confusion across social media.

The actor expressed her excitement about the project, hinting at the thrill that the audiences can expect from her role. She said, “Wow, it’s pretty close. That’s a big one for me because it’s my first venture into action and I’m really curious to see how the audience connects with that.”

Her remark immediately caught fire on social media, with many users pointing out that Alia has already performed action sequences in films like Jigra and Heart of Stone. On Reddit, one user stated:

“So, Alia Bhatt doesn’t consider Jigra and Heart of Stone as action films. Alpha is releasing this December.”  Other comments were sharper: “It was an Action film, alia. And both tanked bad,” read one post, while another said, “Alia has deleted Shaandar, Sadak, Kalank, Jigra and Heart of Stone from her filmography.”

Fans and critics engaged in spirited debate. Some argued that Jigra had minimal action elements, writing, “Jigra was not an action film though. It hardly had one action block. Alpha would probably be the first full action film.” Others countered that if just one or two action sequences qualify a film in that genre, many older Indian romantic films would also fit the label.

Alpha marks Alia’s entry into YRF’s Spy Universe and is directed by Shiv Rawail, co-starring Sharvari and Bobby Deol. In addition to Alpha, Alia is also working on Love & War, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, with Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal set to star.

Also Read : Alia Bhatt serves gothic glamour in black Gucci look at Milan Fashion Week; watch

Actor Amrita Rao, who rose to prominence with Vivah (2006), has opened up candidly about the emotional and professional challenges she faced in the years following the film’s success. In a conversation with Ranveer Allahbadia, she revealed how fame came with a strange mix of unsolicited attention, creative frustration, and, ultimately, loneliness.

Amrita recalled, “After Vivah, I used to get NRI proposals with family photos, people standing next to their car and dog, saying ‘mujhse shaadi karlo’. And not just one or two… I got many! I used to laugh and wonder, ‘Kya log hain yeh!’. Some even wrote letters. Once, I received a letter written in blood, and that was very scary. There was this guy who would stand at the telephone booth outside my house, and my mom or dad would have to pick up the phone. It got a little much.”

Beyond the odd proposals, Amrita described an internal struggle in juggling public expectations with her artistic aspirations. She said, “I met my husband (RJ Anmol) when I was at a very critical point in my life. Even with all the superhit films and love from the audience, I felt stuck. The kind of films I wanted to do weren’t coming to me. The offers were big but came with conditions like, ‘There’s a kissing scene,’ and I would think, ‘Why do I only get offers with a glitch?’ People would say all kinds of things to demotivate me. I didn’t want to attend parties, award shows or be seen. I just wanted to do my work and come home. I was in a lonely space.”

It was during this low phase that Amrita met RJ Anmol, with whom she later tied the knot in 2016 after seven years of dating. The couple welcomed their son, Veer, in November 2020.

After stepping away from the spotlight for some years, Amrita is making a return with Jolly LLB 3, where she reprises her role as Sandhya, originally played in Jolly LLB (2013). This marks her re-entry into mainstream cinema following her appearance in Thackeray (2019).

Also Read : Arya Babbar on 23 years of his debut Ab Ke Baras, “I consider it a privilege to still be standing here as an actor”

Alia Bhatt continues to make her mark on the global fashion stage, this time at Milan Fashion Week, where she turned heads with a striking black look for Demna’s Gucci debut. The Bollywood star, who has become a consistent name at international fashion events, embraced gothic glamour with an ensemble that perfectly blended elegance and boldness.

The actress stepped out in a luxurious black fur coat, a piece that instantly commanded attention. Paired with Gucci’s iconic monogrammed tights and sleek pointed heels, her look exuded a dark, dramatic aesthetic that drew comparisons to Morticia Addams’ timeless allure. Completing her outfit was a black Gucci handbag with gold detailing, further accentuating the refined yet edgy vibe she carried.

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What made Alia’s appearance truly stand out was her beauty look straight, center-parted hair cascading down in a glossy finish, paired with smokey, bronzed makeup that highlighted her sharp features. The combination enhanced her presence, giving her a fierce yet sophisticated edge that fashion watchers couldn’t stop talking about.

With this appearance, Alia Bhatt not only cemented her position as a style icon but also underscored her growing influence on the international fashion circuit. From Cannes to Gucci’s Milan showcase, Alia is proving that her red-carpet choices resonate far beyond Bollywood, setting her up as one of the most closely watched celebrities in global fashion today.

Also Read : Mahesh Bhatt REACTS to viral video of Alia Bhatt-Ranbir Kapoor’s under-construction house: “Invasive journalism is now legitimised”

In five years, Manan Bhardwaj has carved a niche for himself as a music composer, singer and lyricist. He has been a part of the songs of significant films like Shiddat (2021), Radhe Shyam (2022), Satyaprem Ki Katha (2023), Animal (2023), etc. The last-named film stands out with the song 'Arjan Vailly' being a milestone in his career. In an exclusive interaction with Bollywood Hungama, Manan Bhardwaj spoke about working in this Randeep Kapoor-starrer.

Manan Bhardwaj agreed, “‘Arjan Vailly' is one of the most important songs in my career. Honestly, I work hard on every song of mine. I go very deep into the process, be it while composing or writing the lyrics or singing. But there are songs that help you win awards or popularity. 'Arjan Vailly' is that song and it’ll always remain special.”

When asked whether he met director Sandeep Reddy Vanga or did the maverick filmmaker approach him, Manan Bhardwaj revealed, “Bhushan Kumar sir called me one day and said, ‘Jahan bhi hai, fatafat aa jaao’! Thankfully, I was close by and I rushed to the T-Series office. He introduced me to Vanga sir. The first song of Animal, which was locked, was ‘Kashmir’; it was also my composition. I had sung the song for Vanga sir; he recorded it as a voice note and even used it to shoot the song.”

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How did Ranbir Kapoor react to the songs of Animal? Manan Bhardwaj said, “I met Ranbir sir on a flight. I told him, ‘Hello Ranbir sir, this is Manan Bhardwaj’. He said, ‘Hi, Manan’. He mistook me for a fan; actually, I am a fan! What I mean is that he thought I was a layman. So, I added, ‘Sir, Manan Bhardwaj, Arjan Vailly’! He got up and hugged me and said, ‘Kya gaana banaya hai yaar tune’. He also asked, ‘Kashmir bhi tera gaana hai na?’. We shared many things on the flight; mazaa aaya! That was my first interaction. Bobby Deol sir was also present; it was a lovely experience.” 

Animal ends with the promise of a sequel, named Animal Park. Is Manan Bhardwaj a part of it? He replied, “As of now, the process of composing songs for that film hasn’t begun. Probably, (Sandeep Reddy Vanga is) working on the pre-production. I hope that I get a chance to work with him again.”

Also Read:EXCLUSIVE: Manan Bhardwaj talks about Nishaanchi and how Sapna Chaudhary inspired a peppy track; opens up on Harshvardhan Rane-starrer Tara vs Bilal’s token theatrical release: “Had it been released after Sanam Teri Kasam’s re-release success, it would have been a BLOCKBUSTER!”

Produced by Junglee Pictures, in association with Insomnia Films and Baweja Studios, HAQ is a searing and intense drama inspired by the landmark judgement of the Supreme Court on Mohd. Ahmed Khan v. Shah Bano Begum case. Sparking a debate between Personal Law v/s Secular Law, HAQ is directed by Suparn S Varma and will see Yami Gautam Dhar and Emraan Hashmi in their most powerful and layered roles yet.

HAQ is a fictionalized and dramatized version of events stated in the book titled ‘Bano: Bharat ki Beti’ written by Jigna Vora, and revisits one of the most controversial cases in the India of the 80s — the conversation that started more than 4 decades back remains urgent and relevant in our society even today - shouldn't the opportunity of justice be equal for all? Is it time for one nation, one law? Where do we draw the line between personal belief and secular law? Should there be a Uniform Civil Code (UCC)?

Junglee Pictures has built its legacy on stories that defy convention and dare to challenge societal norms. Each of its films embodies fearlessness. The studio behind acclaimed films like Raazi, Talvar and Badhaai Do is back with yet another endearing and high-concept drama that promises to captivate theatre-going audiences. Meanwhile, for Yami Gautam, HAQ marks her next in theatres, after she lit up the screen with her electrifying performance in Article 370. In HAQ, she portrays an inspiring Muslim woman who refuses to be silenced.

Wronged and abandoned, she fights a system stacked up against her. She is unafraid to go to court demanding her HAQ for herself and her children under section 125. Coming together for the first time, Yami Gautam Dhar and Emraan Hashmi deliver a compelling story, with Hashmi playing the role of a razor-sharp and celebrated lawyer and Yami leading a battle that dares society to pick a side.

Haq begins as a love story, and seemingly a private dispute between a husband and wife shifts to a rousing debate on a provocative topic that begs a solution even today - a courtroom battle spotlighting greater questions of faith, identity, liberalism, personal belief and eventually policy and law - the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) under article 44.

A mother’s raw, uncompromising courage is the soul of HAQ. Gripping and unpredictable, Haq is loaded with relentless twists, emotions, and drama.

Haq is set to release in theatres on 7th November 2025, directed by one of the most dynamic directors today in the industry Suparn S Varma ( creator of Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai, The Family Man, Rana Naidu), and written by Reshu Nath. Strengthening the talent roster of HAQ are actors par excellence Sheeba Chaddha, Danish Hussain, and Aseem Hattangady.

The teaser of the film is out now!

Also Read: Yami Gautam Dhar walks into the Supreme Court in first poster of HAQ; teaser to release on September 23, 2025

Anupam Kher opened up about his early struggles in cinema, his views on nationalism, and his outspoken nature at the ninth edition of Expresso held at The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai. In a free-flowing conversation, the veteran star spoke about being nearly replaced in his debut film, the misconceptions about his political stance, and why he has never shied away from expressing himself.

Anupam Kher, known for openly sharing his political opinions, discussed how audiences view his political persona during a conversation with Anant Goenka, Executive Director of the Indian Express Group. He said, “People confuse anybody who is talking about India that he wants to join politics. I was born in 1955 and India was born on 1947. I always say that I am 8 years younger to India. We both grew up together. I had post-independence blues in school and college. So, I was a born nationalist, now they say nationalist is different from being patriotic but I don’t understand that. I speak in favour of India without worrying about consequences and people confuse that with me being in politics. This happened only after 2014 when we became very open about our likings and dislikes.”

Addressing the allegation that he is associated with the BJP, Kher responded, “It doesn’t bother me now. People say, ‘BJP ka aadmi hai’ but I have no shame in being a loyal Indian. I feel proud when somebody praises India and I have been like this since forever. I am passionate about my country because we have grown up together.”

He also spoke respectfully about Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying, “I think he’s a great leader. We have disagreements even with our fathers and friends, but it doesn’t mean disrespecting that person. I go by the intention of the person. I feel protective towards him, he has so many enemy, yet he continues to work for the country.”

Kher, who made his debut in Mahesh Bhatt’s Saaransh, revealed that he was nearly replaced by Sanjeev Kumar on that very project. The actor recalled packing his bags and being ready to leave Mumbai, only to confront Bhatt. “I told Mahesh Bhatt, ‘Can you see that cab, it has my luggage. I’m leaving the city but before I leave it, I want to tell you, you are the biggest fraud on this earth. You are the biggest cheat on this earth. You are making a film about truth, and you don’t have the truth in you.’” After the confrontation, Bhatt convinced the producer to retain Kher.

Anupam Kher’s body of work spans over 540 films and 100 plays over 35 years. Recently, in 2025, he acted in Emergency, Tumko Meri Kasam, Metro In Dino, and Tanvi the Great.

Also Read : EXCLUSIVE: The Bengal Files is 1 minute longer than Animal; CBFC censors ‘contemptuous’ words against transgenders; makers voluntarily remove Gopal Mukhopadhyay’s mention in several scenes

Former couple Arjun Kapoor and Malaika Arora surprised fans and paparazzi alike by sharing a warm hug and exchanging smiles at the premiere of Homebound in Mumbai, marking a rare public reunion since their breakup.

The film’s premiere, held Monday, was attended by its leads Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa, among others. Arjun showed up in support of his sister. Malaika also made an appearance. Videos from the event quickly made the rounds on social media, but one particular clip caught widespread attention: after posing for cameras, Malaika approached Arjun, and they shared a warm hug and pleasantries.

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Following this greeting, director Neeraj Ghaywan joined them and the three were later seen in casual conversation another rare joint appearance given how much they have kept separate since their split. One social media user commented: “It is always uncomfortable to meet exes. But they looked alright,” while another observed, “A hug that speaks louder than words - Malaika Arora & Arjun Kapoor.”

Arjun and Malaika began dating in 2018 and have occasionally shared glimpses of their life together in public, but their breakup confirmed by Arjun last year led both to largely retreat from jointly appearing at events. Arjun had said, “Nahi abhi single hoon. Relax karo.” Malaika, meanwhile, has emphasized her preference for privacy, telling Etimes, “I am a very private person, and there are certain aspects of my life that I don’t want to elaborate on. I will never choose a public platform to talk about my personal life. So, whatever Arjun has said is entirely his prerogative. I just want to say that, yes, it has been a very trying year for various reasons.”

Also Read : Arjun Kapoor drops his famous poker face for ice-cream – Call Me Chunky is to blame!

Aryan Khan’s directorial debut, The Ba***ds of Bollywood, has been making waves ever since its release on Netflix, quickly climbing to the top spot on the platform. While audiences and industry insiders continue to shower praise on the series and its cast, Aryan also received a special note of pride and love from his sister, Suhana Khan.

Taking to Instagram, Suhana shared a carousel dedicated to her brother. Alongside a picture of the siblings from the show’s premiere, she posted an old childhood photo of a young Aryan with Shah Rukh Khan, a certificate of his early achievement in a school competition, one of the official posters of The Ba***ds of Bollywood, and a short clip from the series. In her caption, she wrote, “Always been number 1.”

The clip she included has caught the attention of many, as it features a producer character, played by Manish Chaudhari, delivering the line, “Say no to drugs.” Fans were quick to point out the subtle reference to Aryan Khan’s 2021 arrest in the Mumbai cruise drug case, where he was taken into custody by NCB officer Sameer Wankhede and later released after weeks of legal proceedings. The inclusion of this particular moment in Suhana’s post was seen by many as a quiet yet powerful dig at the controversy that once overshadowed Aryan’s name.

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Besides Suhana, the cast of the show also reacted to the show’s success. Bobby Deol, in a statement, asserted, “It’s wonderful to watch the industry I’ve been a part of for 30 years and my loving fans embrace the show as well as my character, Ajay Talvar. Aryan has captured the true spirit of cinema in a fun, quirky, and emotional way. The whole cast and team are on the receiving end of an outpouring of love from all corners of the world, and I’m truly feeling blessed.”

Meanwhile, Lakshya said, “Since the release, it’s been an avalanche of love from calls to messages, with people reaching out from everywhere. It feels unreal. To have people connect with Aasmaan’s journey- whether it’s the action, the chaos, or the vulnerability- makes every bit of hard work and the journey to get here worth it.”

Also Read: Inside The Ba***ds of Bollywood premiere: Ranbir Kapoor-Alia Bhatt, Ajay Devgn-Kajol, Ambanis and more; biggest stars step out for Aryan Khan’s directorial debut

Director Priyadarshan is presently helming his next film, Haiwaan, featuring Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan in the lead roles. In an exclusive chat with Pinkvilla, he revealed that Mohanlal will also be making a special cameo in the movie.

In an interview with Pinkvilla, director Priyadarshan was asked if he had plans to make a film starring both Mohanlal and Akshay Kumar. He clarified that he doesn’t make movies just to cast specific actors, but did confirm that Lalettan will have a cameo in Haiwaan.

He stated, “If you’re asking about Haiwaan, Mohanlal is there in that film. However, what character he plays, I don’t want to say right now. See, every time I make a movie, it is the story that excites me. I never think about actors.”

Priyadarshan further explained, “First is always the script, then the actors follow. I can’t say, ‘I’ll make a film with Mohanlal and Akshay Kumar together.’ You will never get a script then. Whenever you get a script, then go behind the right cast, that’s the right way of making films. I have never chased a star to make a film,”

Haiwaan is an upcoming Hindi-language film featuring Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan in the lead roles. Directed by Priyadarshan, the movie is reportedly inspired by Mohanlal’s 2016 thriller Oppam.

Produced by Thespian Films and KVN Productions, Haiwaan is slated for a 2026 theatrical release. The film also stars Samuthirakani, Sayami Kher, Shreya Pilgaonkar, Asrani, and Einar Haraldsson in key roles.

The announcement has sparked excitement among fans, who are eager to see the trio of Priyadarshan, Akshay Kumar, and Saif Ali Khan work together on screen. With Mohanlal making a cameo, anticipation for Haiwaan continues to build, making it one of the most-awaited releases in the coming months.

Also Read : Umesh Shukla joins the league of Priyadarshan, David Dhawan as Ek Chatur Naar, Heer Express to release on the SAME day

Nearly two decades after its release, Rang De Basanti continues to be celebrated as one of Bollywood’s most iconic films. Starring Aamir Khan, Soha Ali Khan, Kunal Kapoor, and others, the 2006 drama became a cultural landmark that still resonates with audiences today.

In a recent interview with Zoom, Soha Ali Khan revealed that the film’s success was far certain at the time. She shared that the producers were so doubtful about its prospects that they even asked the cast to return a portion of their fees.

Soha said, “Nobody anticipated it making the kind of money it did or touching people the way that it did. In fact, when we were promoting the film, the producers called and said, ‘Can you return some of the money we’ve given you? Because we’re not sure this film is going to do well.’ All of us gave money back. We were like, ‘Okay, maybe, sure.’ But that film became a movement. And for me, it was a turning point in my career, something that will always stand out in my journey.”

Soha also spoke about her experience on set, describing long shoots and an intimate, committed cast and crew. She stated, “We shot for about a year, travelling across India-- Punjab, Rajasthan, Delhi, Mumbai. It was a very close-knit crew and cast. We would often wait for hours on set as Binod Pradhan, our cinematographer, took his time, rightly so, to light each shot. Sometimes it took half a day. So we spent a lot of time together. Friendships were formed, and at the time we thought, ‘We’ll be friends forever.’ But now it feels like we haven’t spoken in a lifetime, something I’ve realised just happens over time.”

The film starred Soha Ali Khan alongside Aamir Khan, Kunal Kapoor, and others. Released in 2006, Rang De Basanti went on to be more than just a box-office hit; it became a cultural phenomenon.

Soha Ali Khan’s recent work includes Chhorii 2, a horror thriller streaming on Amazon Prime Video, directed by Vishal Furia. It follows her return to acting after a seven-year break since Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster 3 in 2018.

Also Read : Soha Ali Khan and Kusha Kapila recall their first periods on All About Her: “I thought I was dying”

Akshay Kumar has given a straightforward response to those calling him “money-minded,” making it clear that he is unbothered by the label as long as his income is honestly earned through hard work. Known not only as an actor but also as a producer, Kumar is among the highest tax-paying celebrities in India. While promoting his latest release, Jolly LLB 3, on the popular talk show Aap Ki Adalat, he addressed the criticism head-on, reinforcing his reputation for discipline, integrity, and an unapologetic work ethic.

During the conversation, Akshay said, “Agar paisa kamaya hai toh loot ke nahi kamaya. Maine kaam karke kamaya hai. 8 saal se I have been the highest taxpayer. Toh, it cannot be that I am money-minded or anything. Money is an important aspect in life, you have to be practical.”

He continued, “Paisa kamata hu, tax deta hu, aur un paiso se kaafi seva karta hoo. Ye mera dharam he. Baki chahe kuch bhi kahe main kuch vishwas nahi karta… agar ap ko pheete katne se paisa milta hai toh kya problem hain? Woh paisa dene ko taiyaar he? Jab tak aap kisi se chori nahi kar rahe, jab tak aap kisi ko loot nahi rahe ho, jab tak ap mehnat kar rahe hain tab tak koi problem nahi he. I don't care if they have to say money-minded…”

Akshay Kumar’s Jolly LLB 3, co-starring Arshad Warsi and Saurabh Shukla, has hit theatres with much anticipation. The courtroom drama brings together powerhouse performances and sharp storytelling, with audiences taking note of the actor’s impactful presence on screen once again.

Also Read : Jolly LLB 3 Box Office: Grows quite well on Saturday, all set for Rs. 55 crores weekend

Veteran Bengali actor Victor Bannerjee, who has worked as a lead actor with directors like David Lean and Satyajit Ray, will now be seen in a Hindi film, which singer Zubeen Garg has directed.

The film entitled Chakra is a political thriller. Besides directing, Zubeen, who passed away last week suddenly leaving his fans shell-shocked, also plays one of the leads in the film.

Victor Bannerjee, who has lost a dear friend, said, “I just completed a film with Zubeen where he is also my co-star. It will be released next month. I enjoyed watching him act as much as the world enjoys him singing. Zubeen was a great son of our soil.”

Victor revealed that Zubeen and he were friends. “I shall miss him. What a waste of greatness! The heavens are intoxicated with his charm now. May he stay singing in peace.”

Also Read: Zubeen Garg Death: Composer Jeet Ganguly on his dear friend, “I will always think that he is with me”

As Aryan Khan’s directorial debut, The Ba***ds of Bollywood, launched on Netflix to unprecedented buzz, all eyes were on the audacious world he created and the characters within it. Beyond the cameos and the meta humour, Ajay Talvar, played by Bobby Deol, and the four young actors, Lakshya, Sahher Bambba, Raghav Juyal, and Anya Singh, have quickly become the names everyone is talking about. Trending at #1 on Netflix within hours of the series drop, their phones haven’t stopped buzzing, with social media being flooded with fan edits and hype.

Bobby Deol shares, “It’s wonderful to watch the industry I’ve been a part of for 30 years and my loving fans embrace the show as well as my character, Ajay Talvar. Aryan has captured the true spirit of cinema in a fun, quirky, and emotional way. The whole cast and team are on the receiving end of an outpouring of love from all corners of the world, and I’m truly feeling blessed.”

For Lakshya, who shoulders the show as Aasmaan Singh, it’s been nothing short of surreal. “Since the release, it’s been an avalanche of love from calls to messages, with people reaching out from everywhere. It feels unreal. To have people connect with Aasmaan’s journey- whether it’s the action, the chaos, or the vulnerability- makes every bit of hard work and the journey to get here worth it,” he added, still processing the whirlwind.

Sahher Bambba, playing Karishma Talvar, has been winning hearts. “Karishma is a mix of sparkle and pizzazz, and for me, this role has truly been a dream opportunity. The response has been overwhelming — people have written to me saying they love my performance, and as a newcomer, to receive so much warmth and appreciation for the grace I’ve brought to the character feels incredible. I’m honestly just deeply grateful.” Sahher shares.

And then there’s Raghav Juyal, who has taken the internet by storm, quickly emerging as the ultimate showstopper, with fans declaring ‘Puri show ek taraf aur Raghav bhai ek taraf,’ signalling Parvaiz’s on-screen moment with Emraan Hashmi. "Every other message I get says, ‘Parvaiz is the best friend we all wish we had.’ People are calling him the funniest part of the show, and the memes just keep coming. To also have my on-screen moment with Mr Hashmi be celebrated like it's being, has been especially joyous,” he laughs.

Anya Singh as Sanya, the sharp, ambitious manager, has been praised for grounding the show. “I have enjoyed playing Sanya, crafted so effectively by Aryan. The fact that the fans are seeing the inner workings of an industry they love through my character and enjoying her hustler and go-getter energy is quite sensational. Honestly, the love and messages feel too surreal,” Anya reflects.

If Aryan Khan’s debut has been about shaking up Bollywood with a bold new voice, this cast has been the force bringing his vision alive. They have turned the show into more than just a cheeky take on Bollywood- they’ve made it personal, lovable, and unforgettable. With fan edits trending, phones blowing up, and newfound stardom settling in, the cast, through their characters, have cemented what we’ve known all along - they are the Ba***ds of Bollywood, truly.

Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan responds to fan-led screenings of son Aryan’s directorial debut The Ba***ds of Bollywood

On September 21, 2025, Kareena Kapoor Khan celebrates her 45th birthday, and what a journey it’s been! From her dazzling debut to her reign as Bollywood’s eternal Bebo, Kareena has redefined what it means to be a leading lady. Here’s how she’s rewritten the script for the modern Bollywood heroine, balancing stardom, motherhood, and unapologetic ambition with grace and grit.

The Unapologetic Choice: Embracing Motherhood and Work Simultaneously Kareena shattered the outdated notion that a heroine’s career slows down after motherhood. After welcoming her sons, Taimur and Jeh, she returned to the spotlight with powerhouse performances and a packed schedule. From shooting films to becoming a producer, Kareena proves you don’t have to choose between family and ambition—she’s acing both.

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The Second Act: Post-40 Roles That Defy the ‘Invisible’ Trope At an age when many actresses face fading opportunities, Kareena is rewriting the narrative. Her roles in Jaane Jaan (2023), a gritty Netflix thriller, and Crew (2024), a heist comedy, showcase her versatility and refusal to be sidelined. These projects highlight her ability to lead films with depth and charisma, proving that 40-plus is a new prime for Bollywood’s leading ladies.

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The Star-Turned-Author/Entrepreneur: Expanding Her Brand Kareena is not just a star—she’s a brand. Beyond acting, she co-authored ‘Kareena Kapoor Khan’s Pregnancy Bible’, a candid guide for expecting mothers, and has been a savvy entrepreneur with her production house and brand collaborations. Her ventures reflect a modern heroine who builds her empire off-screen with as much flair as she commands on it.

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The Price of Stardom: Speaking Openly About Life, Weight, and Choices Kareena’s candor about her personal journey—be it body positivity, mental health, or the pressures of fame—sets her apart. She’s been vocal about her struggles with weight, societal expectations, and balancing her career, inspiring fans with her honesty. By owning her narrative, she’s made vulnerability a strength for the modern heroine.

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The Anti-Stereotype: Breaking the Mold with Bold Role Choices From playing a sex worker in Chameli (2003) to a free-spirited bride in Veere Di Wedding (2018), Kareena has consistently chosen roles that challenge Bollywood’s cookie-cutter heroine. These characters—complex, flawed, and fearless—have paved the way for mainstream actresses to embrace unconventional stories, redefining what a “commercial” star can do.

Happy 45th, Bebo! Kareena Kapoor Khan’s legacy isn’t just her iconic films or glamorous personae—it’s her fearless evolution. She’s shown that a Bollywood heroine can age boldly, live authentically, and keep rewriting the rules. Here’s to a star who continues to inspire millions!

Also Read: Robert Redford passes away at 89: Bollywood celebs Priyanka Chopra, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Anil Kapoor and others pay emotional tributes

After touring festivals, collecting acclaim and awards, Bad Girl is coming home again. The pathbreaking Tamil feature—presented by Vetrimaaran and Anurag Kashyap—is now all set for its Hindi theatrical release on September 26. Bollywood Hungama was the first one to break the news exclusively about the Hindi release of this much-loved film.

Helmed by Varsha Bharath in her glorious feature directorial debut, the coming-of-age film is headlined by actor Anjali Sivaraman, playing a teenage girl navigating love and lust in Chennai. After opening in Tamil Nadu earlier this month, the makers of Bad Girl will now release the film in Hindi due to growing audience demands.

Anurag Kashyap, who has come on board as a presenter, says Bad Girl is "one of the most original stories" he has encountered. "When I first read it, it reminded me of how, as a young filmmaker, I wanted to tell bold stories, and Varsha has gone beyond all my expectations and made an excellent film out of it. She’s a voice to watch out for, and we’re happy to release the film in Hindi, as we know that it’s a story that will relate to every girl growing up in the country."

Backed by Vetrimaaran's Grass Root Film Company, with Ranjan Singh as the Executive Producer, Bad Girl also stars Shanthipriya. The movie will be distributed by Flip Films.

Varsha says the film was born out of a need to tell a story that felt honest to the world she sees around her— "one where women are constantly defined, confined, and judged."

"Through the film, I wanted to question the very idea of labels and how easily they are used to diminish women. For me, directing this as my debut has been both liberating and daunting, but the journey has been worth every step. I’m thrilled that the film will now speak to Hindi audiences, and I hope it connects with them in unexpected ways. Having Anurag Kashyap and Vetri Maaran back the film is a rare privilege, their faith reminds me why it is important to take risks and stay true to one’s vision."

For Anjali Sivaraman, previously seen on Netflix's Class, being a part of Bad Girl was one of the most "challenging and rewarding experiences" of her career.

"The role pushed me to confront a lot of questions about identity, freedom, and the judgments women face every day. It’s not often that you get to inhabit a character who is unapologetically herself, even when the world refuses to accept her. I’m truly excited that the film will now reach Hindi audiences - I believe its themes are universal, and I hope viewers see a bit of themselves in her journey."

With music composed by Amit Trivedi, Bad Girl debuted with unprecedented acclaim at the 54th International Film Festival Rotterdam, winning the prestigious NETPAC award.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Anurag Kashyap and Vetri Maaran’s acclaimed Tamil film Bad Girl to release in Hindi; Venice Film Festival winner Anuparna Roy extends support; to attend launch in Mumbai

Janhvi Kapoor is on cloud nine as her upcoming film Homebound, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, has been announced as India’s official entry for the 2026 Academy Awards in the Best International Feature category. The film, produced by Dharma Productions, also stars Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa.

Expressing her emotions on Instagram, Janhvi shared a heartfelt note: “Every part of this film has been nothing short of a dream. The journey, the people, what this story means, and how personal it’s been for everyone in our team. At every step I have been thankful I could witness this journey, which in my mind was truly the reward in itself. Everything since has been a celebration of all these people that I love and respect so much, for their talent, their goodness and their courage.”

The announcement sparked a wave of congratulations from across the industry. Celebrities, including Harshvarrdhan Kapoor, Nitanshi Goel, Zoya Akhtar, Shanaya Kapoor, and designer Manish Malhotra, were among the first to cheer for Janhvi and the team in the comments section.

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Producer Karan Johar also issued a statement, celebrating the milestone: “We are deeply honoured and humbled that Homebound has been selected as India’s official entry to the Academy Awards… Neeraj Ghaywan’s labour of love is sure to find a home in a million hearts across the world.”

Director Neeraj Ghaywan, whose previous works have garnered international acclaim, described the selection as both humbling and a matter of pride: “I’m deeply honoured that Homebound has been chosen as India’s official entry to the Oscars. Rooted in the love for our land and our people, it carries the essence of the home we all share. To take our stories to the world and represent India at one of the biggest global stages for cinema is both humbling and a matter of pride, and for this I’m deeply grateful.”

Homebound is set to release in cinemas on September 26, 2025.

Also Read: Vishal Jethwa talks about Homebound winning second runner-up at TIFF : “The film is not just acknowledged, but rewarded”

Deepika Padukone is making headlines once again, this time for a heartfelt social media post as she begins filming her new project, King, in Poland. The actress shared a cryptic yet poignant note just days after the production house, Vyjayanthi Movies, officially confirmed her departure from the much-anticipated Kalki 2898 AD sequel.

In a photo posted on her social media, Deepika is seen holding hands with Shah Rukh Khan, her co-star in the film. The caption accompanying the photo reads, “The very first lesson he taught me almost 18 years ago while filming Om Shanti Om was that the experience of making a movie, and the people you make it with, matter far more than its success. I couldn’t agree more and have applied that learning to every decision I’ve made since. And that’s probably why we’re back making our 6th movie together? #king #day1”

The post quickly garnered attention, with her husband and fellow actor Ranveer Singh reacting to it with the affectionate comment, "Bestest Besties."

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Deepika's post comes on the heels of Vyjayanthi Movies’ official announcement regarding her exit from the Kalki 2898 AD sequel. After months of speculation, the production house took to X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, September 18, to confirm the news. Their official note stated, "This is to officially announce that @deepikapadukone will not be a part of the upcoming sequel of #Kalki2898AD. After careful consideration, we have decided to part ways."

The post further elaborated on the decision, adding, "Despite the long journey of making the first film, we were unable to find a partnership. And a film like @Kalki2898AD deserves that commitment and much more. We wish her the best with her future projects."

This isn't the first time the actress's professional choices have made news. The incident has drawn comparisons to her exit from Sandeep Reddy Vanga's film Spirit back in May. Reports at the time suggested that her withdrawal was due to her demand for an 8-hour workday after embracing motherhood last year, as well as profit-sharing clauses and her unwillingness to deliver dialogues in Telugu.

Also Read: From Deepika Padukone to Katrina Kaif to Alia Bhatt: Bollywood leading ladies making waves as entrepreneurs

Filmmaker Anuparna Roy, who scripted history at the Venice Film Festival by winning the Orizzonti Award (Best Director) for Songs Of Forgotten Trees, is turning her milestone into motion. Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learnt that the filmmaker will be lending support to the Hindi version of the acclaimed Tamil feature Bad Girl, presented by Vetri Maaran and Anurag Kashyap.

Backed by Vetri Maaran's Grass Root Film Company, the coming-of-age drama is directed by Varsha Bharath and features a career-defining performance by actor Anjali Sivaraman as Ramya, a teenage girl navigating love and lust in Chennai.

After opening in Tamil Nadu earlier this month, the makers of Bad Girl are locking a Hindi release date and have roped in Anuparna Roy for a grand launch event in Mumbai where Anurag Kashyap will also be in attendance.

A source told us, “Anuparna saw the film and was bowled over by what Varsha and the team pulled off. The film tells a story of a female coming of age with a distinct visual grammar and uniquely fierce Indian storytelling. The makers plan to host an event where the powerhouse female talent of the film, along with Anuparna, will be under one roof. It's a glorious union of some of the sharpest, bravest female voices of the industry.”

Also starring Shanthipriya and with music composed by Amit Trivedi, Bad Girl debuted with unprecedented acclaim at the 54th International Film Festival Rotterdam, winning the prestigious NETPAC award.

The Hindi version is expected to broaden the film’s reach, bringing Ramya’s story to a new audience. With Anuparna Roy’s endorsement and Anurag Kashyap’s support, the Mumbai launch is shaping up to be a significant cultural moment. The team is hopeful that the film’s themes of identity and desire will resonate strongly and meaningfully with viewers across India and beyond.

Also Read: Anurag Kashyap on relocating to Bengaluru, “There are more film discussions here, than box office discussions”; also OPENS UP on casting Aaishvary Thackeray in Nishaanchi, “I needed a lot of dedication”