Bhatt Saab, it’s been seventeen years since Jannat released? Seventeen years. It feels like yesterday—and yet, a lifetime has passed. On May 16, 2008, Jannat walked into our lives—not with fanfare, but with that quiet confidence some stories carry when they know they’ve touched something true. Now, as I look back, what comes to me is not the success, not the applause—but a moment. A face.

Whose face? I was in Gurgaon, at a friend’s home, when his wife—a middle-class woman draped in ordinariness but lit from within—was serving me hot chapatis. With a quiet intensity in her eyes, she said, “Jannat is about the war inside every man. Between the hunger to grab everything in the shop window—and the strength to walk away.” She didn’t speak of Arjun and Zoya as characters, but as mirrors. She had seen the film not just with her eyes, but with her life.

That just about sums up Jannat? Zoya, she said, was the true hero. Because when the man she loved broke under the weight of his own desire, she chose to endure. She chose dignity. And that one moment—her son returning a toy because his mother couldn’t afford it—cut deeper than any scene I’ve ever staged. In that simple act, a generation turned. The father who once smashed windows to steal what he craved was gone. The child had chosen another way. That, to me, was Jannat’s true victory.

Kunal Deshmukh was pretty impressive in his directorial debut? Kunal Deshmukh—young, unscarred, unafraid—took a gamble with this film. His first. He wove a tale of cricket betting and love, yes. But beneath it all was the seduction of sin and the price of surrender. He didn’t just direct a film. He lit a fire.

And your favourite, Emraan Hashmi? Emraan Hashmi… What can I say that hasn’t already been felt in a million hearts? His character Arjun was flawed, but Emraan gave him a soul. We rooted for him even as we knew he would fall. Because inside all of us, there’s an Arjun—burning, wanting, losing. And Sonal Chauhan, as Zoya, brought a rare grace—a quiet rebellion, a refusal to let life harden her.

The music of Jannat is remembered to this day? And then there was the music. Pritam gave us not just a soundtrack, but an ache. Zara Sa, Haan Tu Hain, Jannat Jahan—songs that felt like diary entries from a time when love hurt in the best possible way. KK, who is no longer with us, lives on in those notes. His voice was the shadow under our dreams.

Your closing thoughts? Jannat was never just a movie. It was a parable. A whisper in a noisy world. A reminder that every choice leaves a mark—and that sometimes, the strength to hold back makes the loudest noise of all. To Kunal, to Emraan, to Pritam, to Sonal, to that woman in Gurgaon who saw more clearly than most critics ever could—and to you, the audience, who’ve kept this story alive in your hearts—thank you. Jannat lives not on screens, but in memories. And memories… don’t age.

Also Read: Emraan Hashmi starrer Ground Zero offers Rs 99 tickets for one day ONLY! Check deets here

Ananya Panday is no stranger to scrutiny, but the actress is now speaking out with honesty and introspection about the toll of unrealistic beauty standards and how they impact young women — including herself.

In a heartfelt conversation with popular YouTuber Lilly Singh, Ananya recalled the early days of her career when she was just 18 or 19 and how the criticism she faced was deeply personal. “I was really skinny, you know, and everyone used to kind of make fun about that. They were like, oh, you have chicken legs, and you look like a matchstick, and you don’t have t**s, and you don’t have an a**,” she said. “So that was what it was first.”

Even as her body changed and she grew in the public eye, the commentary didn’t stop. “They were like, oh, there’s no way she’s got her b*** done, or she’s got this done. So you can never win. People will constantly have something to say and criticize that,” she added, noting how such commentary disproportionately targets women. “That’s something that I’ve seen, especially with women. I don’t feel like they do that to men at all.”

The 25-year-old actress also took a moment to reflect on the role that the film industry plays in shaping public perception, admitting, “I feel like it’s our fault also, because we have set unrealistic beauty standards in the films that we’ve… You know, I, as an actress, feel like sometimes I do put that messaging out there in the films that I’ve done or the songs that I’ve done — that, oh, you’re all beautiful, you wake up in the morning, and your hair’s done, and it’s not true.”

Trying to counter the filtered perfection seen on screen, Ananya emphasized the importance of authenticity. “You kind of have to balance that out somewhere. You have to talk about it, and you have to tell people that that’s not the reality. We also don’t look like that. And I try to balance that out, maybe, by not being like that when I’m, you know, off-camera.”

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On the work front, Ananya is gearing up for Chand Mera Dil, a romantic drama under Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions. The film pairs her with Lakshya and is already generating buzz. Along with that, the actress is also expected to return as Bella aka Bae in her popular web series- Call Me Bae for Season 2 on Prime Video.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Lisa Mishra CONFIRMS Ananya Panday-starrer Call Me Bae Season 2 to start shoot this year: “Everyone is SUPER EXCITED to be back on sets”; BREAKS silence on possibility of The Royals Season 2

Raj how did your first project materialize? It took us almost four or five years to get that film going because we were new to Mumbai. It was the first time we had landed in the city, and we didn’t know anyone. All we knew was that we could write a script. So, we wrote 99, Shor in the City, and Go Goa Gone, I think. As engineers aspiring to be filmmakers, we thought that if we wrote three scripts, at least one of them might get made. More scripts meant better odds. 99 was our first one. But again, we didn’t know anyone.

How did you convince a producer to back 99? Just making contacts, approaching any actor or producer—it was all taking forever. And we had zero clue how to go about it. Plus, we looked like we were from another world. We didn’t look like we belonged in Mumbai. People didn’t know who we were. But they did say the script was fun, fresh, and something they hadn’t read before.

So, 99 had no reference point? Right. That kind of proved to be tough and good at the same time because there was no precedent. We couldn’t say, “It’s like that film.” That made it harder. The only person we knew was Anupam Mittal, the CEO of Shaadi.com. He was a friend before we made the film. One day he said, “I’ll produce a film,” and that’s how it started.

Was it tough getting that impressive cast without any experience in feature filmmaking? Absolutely. We had no connections and no way to prove we were filmmakers. So we decided to make a short film based on Shor in the City. We had a full script, but we picked one part of it and shot it over a weekend. That short film came out really well. It became our calling card. It went to a bunch of festivals, and we started showing it around in Bombay to see who would bite. Based on that, we began casting. And before we knew it, we had a really cool ensemble: Kunal Khemu, Vinod Khanna, Boman Irani, and Cyrus Broacha—who was doing a feature film for the first time, I think. It was really fun.

Was it tough putting 99 out there? The release was another big pain point. We had no money for marketing. I don’t think we even had newspaper ads. Just ten hoardings in the city—that was it. No TV spots, no radio promotions. It just opened... and sat there.

The opening must have crushed you and DK. We thought it had sunk on Day 1 because nobody knew about it. It opened just about okay. We felt low on Friday and gave up. But by Sunday, things turned around. We visited packed theatres, and it was a relief. Word of mouth was strong, and the film ended up running for several weeks. We experienced all kinds of emotions in that one release.

So, a happy ending? Yeah, in the end, it was a happy one in terms of how the film ran. It had a great afterlife too. People still fondly remember it. Every time the anniversary of 99 comes around, we get sweet messages. The trailer had a great line: “The difference between 99 and 100 is one. Just one—but it’s a big one.” That really sums it up. So much happened on that set, and we learned a lot. We grew as a team.

You had quite a team. Yes, DK, Sita Menon, and I came together. And we’ve remained a team since. Filming was great fun. 99 is the only film we shot on Super 35 film stock. Even though digital was already mainstream, we wanted to shoot on film—because we felt it might be our last chance. It was so cool. We didn’t know the “rules” of filmmaking. We just made what we wanted to make.

You really carved your own space with that film. We realized there wasn’t really a crime comedy in Hindi cinema back then. So we said, let’s do something that’s not out there. Hence, 99. It was kind of a historical fiction in a weird way. We created a backstory that linked it to the real-life betting and match-fixing scandal. It was an original idea. A lot of fun to make.

It couldn’t have been easy cracking such a sensitive idea. Like walking on grass? Yes, it took a long time to crack the script. We were basically writing our first real Hindi feature film, and we had to figure out structure, climax, all of it. It was very satisfying. Interestingly, while we were working on 99, we started jumping between scripts—we don’t know why, but it turned out well for us. So, 99, Shor in the City, and Go Goa Gone were all being developed at the same time, in various stages.

Also Read: Raj Nidimoru of Raj-DK fame on Citadel: Honey Bunny, “We didn’t shoot it like a Hollywood production, we shot it like how we shot The Family Man”

Darsheel, May 14 marks 15 years since your first post-Taare Zameen Par release. Wow—15 years of Bumm Bumm Bole! Time really does fly. Shooting for it right after Taare Zameen Par was such a memorable experience. I was still quite young, and everything felt new and exciting. I wouldn’t say I got “star treatment” in the typical sense—but yes, there definitely was a sense of familiarity and warmth from the crew after TZP. I felt looked after, and that made a huge difference. 

What was it like being directed by Priyadarshan? Working with Priyadarshan sir was a complete learning curve. His energy and pace on set were infectious, and he had such a clear vision of what he wanted. I remember how precise he was—even with emotions. We hardly wasted any time. He made sure we stayed natural while still hitting the right emotional notes. It’s always amazing to work with and be in the same room as someone as experienced as Priyan sir. 

Do you remember the spunky girl Ziyah Vastani, who played your baby sister? Of course, I remember Ziyah! She brought so much spunk and energy to the set. She really felt like a little sister to me during the shoot—I enjoyed annoying her! Spending so much time with her made me more caring and loving toward my own sister, whom I was always teasing. We had a blast working together. 

Did you get a chance to watch the original film by Majid Majidi? Yes, I watched Children of Heaven before and during the shoot. It’s such a beautiful, heartfelt film. Knowing that Bumm Bumm Bole was inspired by it was humbling. I felt proud to be part of something that echoed such a touching story. Some conversations I had with the writer and director during that time sparked my curiosity—and eventual love—for filmmaking. 

What are you working on now? Right now, I’m working on a few exciting projects—two films and a web series that I recently wrapped. It’s a fun mix of genres, and I’m super excited to share them with you soon!

Also Read: Subhash K. Jha speaks on Bumm Bumm Bole

Actress Mrunal Thakur recently opened up about her personal and professional aspirations in a candid chat with Cosmo India. While reflecting on a goal she recently checked off — sending her brother to study filmmaking in the U.S. — Mrunal gave a peek into what’s next on her evolving bucket list.

“Currently, I am focusing on my bucket list, which includes sending my brother to America to study filmmaking at a place I would have liked to go,” she said, noting how fulfilling it was to live that dream vicariously through him.

Looking ahead, Mrunal's ambitions reflect both a desire for personal growth and a deep commitment to her craft. “I want to travel with my family to America, London, and Europe — basically, take them everywhere,” she shared, adding that one of her broader goals is “to change the definition of how Indian women are perceived” and to embrace motherhood along the way. “I think I’ll be a good mom. I just don’t know with whom, so that is something that I’m working on,” she said, candidly.

On the professional front, Mrunal isn’t limiting herself to the industries she’s already conquered. “I want to explore acting — not just stay limited to Telugu, Hindi, and Marathi films, but also debut in Tamil, Malayalam, English, and Spanish films,” she said, emphasizing her intent to expand her horizons, one step at a time.

The actress also shared her dream list of filmmakers she hopes to collaborate with. “I want to work with filmmakers that I have grown up watching — those who have inspired me to be in this industry. I loved the adaptation of The Namesake by Meera Nair,” she said. “Then, of course, I want to work with Sanjay Leela Bhansali, because who doesn’t love him? Imtiaz Ali, Anurag Kashyap — the list goes on.”

Coming to the work front, the 32-year-old actress is currently busy shooting Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, co-starring Varun Dhawan and Pooja Hegde. Interestingly, it is reported that Mrunal will be sharing the screen space with Siddhant Chaturvedi in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s next project.

Also Read: Mrunal Thakur says she’s the “first girl in the family to own a Mercedes” as she recalls promising her mother a “crazy car” at age 12

Bollywood actor Ayushmann Khurrana has shared a heartfelt message for Indian cricket stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who have both announced their retirement from Test cricket. As cricket fans across the country grapple with the news, Ayushmann added an emotional voice from the film industry, calling the duo “our forever GOATs in whites.”

Taking to Instagram, the Dream Girl star posted a picture of Kohli and Sharma in their Test jerseys and wrote, “Our forever GOATs in whites!” — a line that sums up the sentiment of an entire generation that watched the two dominate red-ball cricket for over a decade.

Kohli, in his retirement announcement, reflected on his 14-year journey in Test cricket with a message that struck a chord with fans worldwide. “It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket. Honestly, I never imagined the journey this format would take me on. It’s tested me, shaped me, and taught me lessons I’ll carry for life,” his post began.

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He continued, “There’s something deeply personal about playing in whites. The quiet grind, the long days, the small moments that no one sees but that stay with you forever. As I step away from this format, it’s not easy — but it feels right. I’ve given it everything I had, and it’s given me back so much more than I could’ve hoped for. I’m walking away with a heart full of gratitude — for the game, for the people I shared the field with, and for every single person who made me feel seen along the way. I’ll always look back at my Test career with a smile.”

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Rohit Sharma had earlier made a similar announcement, prompting many fans to call it “the end of an era.” Sharma, known for his elegance at the crease and steady leadership, leaves behind an equally cherished legacy.

Anushka Sharma, Kohli’s wife and actor-producer, also took to Instagram to post a supportive message, celebrating her husband’s journey and reiterating her pride in his accomplishments on the field.

On the work front, Ayushmann Khurrana is gearing up for his next film Thama opposite Rashmika Mandanna, but it’s his off-screen moment of tribute that’s currently winning hearts online.

Also Read: 13 Years of Vicky Donor: Yami Gautam and Ayushmann Khurrana celebrate its anniversary with heartfelt throwbacks as film returns to cinemas

As tensions between India and Pakistan continue to make headlines following the Pahalgam attack and India’s swift retaliation through Operation Sindoor, voices of solidarity have emerged from different corners of the nation—including from within the entertainment industry. Actress Rhea Chakraborty, who hails from a military background, took to social media to pen a poignant note as a ‘Fauji daughter’, drawing attention to the emotional sacrifices made by armed forces families.

In her post, Rhea wrote, “I grew up watching my dad wear his uniform like second skin - calm, proud, ready. And I grew up watching my mom hold back tears like a soldier too. Being an Army officer's daughter means you learn early... That love often looks like distance. That pride quietly holds hands with fear. Today, I sleep safely in my home because someone else's father, mother, brother, or sister is out there- standing at the border, standing tall.” “To every Army, navy and airforce family waiting, hoping, praying - I see you. I feel you. I stand with you. From one fauji home to another... sending love, strength, and a salute. Jai hind,” she concluded. Rhea’s words struck a chord with netizens, especially those from armed forces backgrounds, who resonated with her message of resilience, pride, and unspoken grief.

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The note comes at a time when emotions are running high across the country where celebs not only condemned the attack in Pahalgam region claiming the lives of innocent Indian civilians but also showcased their support towards Indian Armed Forces for protecting the nation. In this charged climate, Rhea's message was not political but deeply personal. Her post served as a reminder of the quiet strength of armed forces families, many of whom continue to pray for the safe return of their loved ones, even as they battle their own fears in silence. From one "fauji home to another", her message was not just a tribute—it was a call for empathy, unity, and strength.

Also Read: Rhea Chakraborty launches Freedom campaign for her brand Chapter 2: “Wearing our scars proudly we walk into the sunset”

Veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan has finally broken his silence on the tragic Pahalgam attack with a powerful and emotionally charged message on X (formerly Twitter), saluting the Indian Armed Forces and expressing his support for Operation Sindoor — India’s retaliatory action following the brutal attack in Jammu and Kashmir. This marks the first time the legendary actor has spoken directly about the incident, following days of cryptic silence that saw him posting numbered tweets with no content since April 23.

Sharing a vivid and heart-wrenching description of the violence faced by a couple during the attack, Bachchan's post highlighted the inhumanity of the perpetrators while echoing a poetic reference from “Pujya Babuji” - his father and famous poet, Harivanshrai Bachchan. The tweet read, “While celebrating the holidays, that monster dragged the innocent couple outside, stripped the husband naked, and after fulfilling his duty, started shooting him. Even after the wife fell on her knees and cried and requested not to kill her husband, that cowardly monster shot her husband very ruthlessly, making the wife a widow. When the wife said "Kill me too"!! So the demon said, “No! You go and tell “….”! On my daughter's mental state, I remembered a line from a poem by Pujya Babuji: Suppose, that daughter went to "…. " and said: " There are ashes of the funeral pyre, the world is asking for vermilion " .. ( Babuji's line) So “….” I gave you the vermillion!!! OPERATION SINDOOR!!!”

The actor followed up with a stirring tribute to the Indian Army, quoting lines from one of his most impactful and iconic films, Agneepath, - “Jai Hind Jai Hind's Army You will never stop; you will never turn back; you will never bow down Take an oath, take an oath, take an oath! Agni Path! Agni Path! Agni Path!!!”

T 5375 - छुट्टियाँ मानते हुए, उस राक्षस ने, निर्दोष पति पत्नी को बाहर खींच कर, पति को नग्न कर, उसके धर्म की पूर्ति करने के बाद , उसे जब गोली मारने लगा, तो पत्नी ने, घुटने पे गिर कर, रो रो अनुरोध करने के बाद भी, की उसके पति को न मारो ; उसके पति को उस बुज़दिल राक्षस ने, बेहद… — Amitabh Bachchan (@SrBachchan) May 10, 2025

Bachchan’s post instantly struck a chord with fans and netizens alike, many lauding his dignified silence in the immediate aftermath and now his heartfelt expression of solidarity and pride in the Armed Forces. For days, the actor had maintained a curious pattern of posting tweet numbers without any accompanying content, which many believe reflected his silent mourning and disappointment over the tragic events of April 22.

The emotional post arrives at a crucial juncture when tensions between India and Pakistan remain high. Although a ceasefire was announced by former US President Donald Trump on Saturday, reports have already surfaced suggesting that Pakistan violated the terms within hours, reigniting anger and distrust among Indian citizens. Amitabh Bachchan’s words — poetic yet piercing — have once again reminded the country of the deep emotional undercurrents this conflict stirs, not only among citizens but also in the hearts of icons who carry the voice of the nation forward.

Also Read: Amitabh Bachchan ventures into gaming as co-founder of Tara Gaming Ltd

Actress Mawra Hocane has found herself at the centre of a cross-border controversy after she shared a patriotic and emotionally charged post on X (formerly Twitter), praising Pakistan’s armed forces and vowing resilience amid escalating India-Pakistan tensions. Her statement came hours after former US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between the two nations on Saturday evening - an agreement that reportedly broke down within hours due to fresh attacks allegedly initiated by Pakistan.

In her post, Mawra wrote, “Finally the world can see that Pakistan has & will always stand for Peace. However if we are pushed into a war, our bravery & determination is unmatched. Our soldiers protected us with integrity, valour & grace and our nation's resolve was unified & exemplary... Nothing & no one that attempts to challenge Pakistan's sovereignty will be spared, make no mistake!” She ended the post with, “Pakistan Zindabad, Pakistan Forces Paindabad.”

PAKISTAN ZINDABAD ???????? pic.twitter.com/YWgpPyJ6jl — MAWRA (@MawraHocane) May 10, 2025

While her message received support from a segment of her followers in Pakistan, it has also sparked outrage among Indian audiences and industry insiders, especially after reports of a breach of the ceasefire agreement began to surface. The post was seen by many as glorifying aggression at a time when peace was being negotiated.

The controversy took a sharper turn when her Sanam Teri Kasam co-star Harshvardhan Rane, who had previously shared a cordial off-screen rapport with Mawra, took a firm stand. On May 10, the actor posted a note on Instagram Stories that read, "In light of the recent events and the unfortunate statements made by someone I once worked with, I want to make it clear — I will never associate myself with such sentiments. I stand by my country and its people. I will not be a part of Sanam Teri Kasam 2 if she is involved in any capacity. My integrity is not for sale.” Although he did not name Mawra, he did share her tweet on the story indicating how it prompted him to arrive at this decision.

Meanwhile, Mawra has joined a list of Pakistani actors who have come under fire for taking anti-India stances despite benefitting from opportunities in the Indian film industry. Names like Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, and Hania Aamir were some who were criticized for expressing political views or making remarks perceived as disrespectful toward India, despite having enjoyed considerable success and fan followings in the country.

The Indo-Pak peace dialogue continues to hang in the balance, and the film industry - often a site of cross-border collaboration - is once again caught in the storm.

Also Read: Harshvardhan Rane refuses to work with Mawra Hocane in a powerful note condemning her anti-India comments

Patralekhaa, who recently portrayed Savitribai Phule in Pratik Gandhi's Phule, has starred in several critically acclaimed films. However, despite her successful career, she is often referred to merely as actor Rajkummar Rao’s wife, a label that she finds disappointing.

In a conversation with Galatta India, Patralekhaa expressed her frustration and said, “I really hate it, just to be called Rajkummar Rao’s wife. I detest it, and I feel very small. Kyunki mera ek naam hai… mera ek astitva hai.” While she is proud of Rajkummar’s achievements, the actress believes that her own identity often gets overshadowed by her marital status, leading others to overlook her individuality.

Patralekhaa mentioned that many people assume her association with Rajkummar Rao made her journey easier. However, she pointed out that it is challenging for her to be seen as an individual. The actress also expressed her desire for the media to stop referring to her as Rajkummar’s wife, emphasizing the importance of recognizing her as her own person.

Patralekhaa revealed that people often approached Rajkummar Rao for projects by first reaching out to her. She shared, “People often approach me only to reach Raj. They bring me scripts not because they want me, but because they want to cast him. And then it becomes clear what the bait is: they want me to take it to Raj, and the film is mine.”

Directed by Ananth Narayan Mahadevan, Phule also starred Pratik Gandhi alongside Patralekhaa. The film highlights the remarkable contributions of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule and Savitribai Phule, two visionaries who fought for the rights of women and marginalized communities in nineteenth-century India. Jyotirao’s efforts to provide education to all, particularly women and the impoverished, have made him a key figure in India's social reform history. Pratik Gandhi portrayed Jyotirao Phule, while Patralekhaa played Savitribai Phule. The production team behind Phule included Pranay Chokshi, Jagdish Patel, Ritesh Kudecha, Anuya Chauhan Kudecha, Suunil Jaiin, and Dr. Raj Khaware.

Before this film, Patralekhaa was seen in the Netflix series IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack, which also featured Vijay Varma, Pankaj Tripathi, Naseeruddin Shah, Dia Mirza, and Arvind Swamy.

Also Read : Pratik Gandhi on the controversies surrounding Phule, “In today’s times, we can’t even talk about what happened in history”

Diljit Dosanjh made history by attending this year's MET Gala, where he graced the iconic stairs of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. The singer-actor caught everyone's attention with his Maharaja-inspired outfit, created by Prabal Gurung. Following this, Diljit was named the Best Dressed Celebrity at the world’s most prestigious fashion event in a poll by Vogue, surpassing style icons like Zendaya and Rihanna.

The fashion magazine released its Best Dressed list, determined by fan votes. A poll was held in which readers chose their favourite look from 307 different red carpet outfits. The Punjabi singer-actor, who showcased Punjabi culture in a Prabal Gurung Sherwani, outshone all others to claim the title of Best Dressed.

At the MET Gala, Diljit paid tribute to Maharaja Bhupinder Singh by wearing a custom ivory sherwani, complete with a turban and stunning jewelry, including an intricate necklace. The ensemble also featured a ceremonial sword and a cape adorned with a map of Punjab and Gurmukhi script.

Diljit shared his look on Instagram, captioning it, “MAIN HOON ਪੰਜਾਬ #metgala. Inspired by the theme of Black Dandyism, I bring my turban, my culture, and my mother tongue “ਪੰਜਾਬੀ” to the MET GALA. Thank you so much, dear @prabalgurung @theannawintour @cartier @golecha_jewels @abhilashatd.”

The second spot on the list went to South Korean rapper-singer S Coups, who donned a gray Boss suit inspired by the traditional Korean hanbok jacket. Diljit and S Coups were followed by Hollywood star Zendaya in a Louis Vuitton suit, singer Teyana Taylor in a Ruth E. Carter outfit, and popstar Rihanna in a Marc Jacobs design.

Also Read : Diljit Dosanjh wanted Maharaja of Patiala’s $2.5 billion necklace for MET Gala but here’s why he couldn’t

In a rare and emotional revelation, actor Prateik Smita Patil has opened up about his relationship with actress Priya Banerjee and how their love story began during one of the most turbulent phases in both their lives. The couple, who recently tied the knot on February 14 this year, met during a challenging time in both their lives - a time that proved to be unexpectedly transformative for them.

“I wasn’t looking for it, neither was Priya. We weren’t looking for it, but we were meant to meet at this particular time in our lives. I don’t think it would have worked out if we had met earlier. It had to be at this divine timing. She had broken her previous engagement and I was going through a divorce,” Prateik shared in a heartfelt interview.

He continued, “That’s when we happened to meet in the lockdown. Kafi logon ke liye lockdown negative raha… kafi logon ki shaadiyaan toot gayi… par humne pyaar dhoond liya aur humari shaadi pakki ho gayi (For many, the lockdown was a negative phase… many marriages ended… but we found love and got engaged).”

Prateik also opened up about the emotional turmoil he was experiencing after his divorce and shared, “I was very angry at my situation and vengeful. So out of vengeance, I ended up following thousands of pretty women on Instagram. Because, I was like, ‘I was so good in my marriage… why did this happen to me?’ And it was ladies, be aware. It was literally ladies vs. Prateik… the beast in me unleashed. That was my mindset. Priya was one of them, we followed each other back.”

Coming to Priya, he insisted that their connection wasn’t instant. “For the first three months, we didn’t strike a conversation. But finally, I had the courage to reply to her story and next thing I know, we were going on a drive, next thing I know we were meeting regularly… and the rest is history,” he said.

For the unversed, Prateik Smita Patil (Babbar) was previously married to writer-director Sanya Sagar. The two parted ways within a year of their marriage in 2023. His union with Priya Banerjee, however, marks a new beginning—one shaped by timing, growth, and a connection that emerged in the unlikeliest of times.

Also Read: Priya Banerjee celebrates first birthday after wedding with Prateik Smita Patil

Sanam Johar, who won hearts as the anti-heroic rockstar Ruturaj in Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Meiin, recently took to Instagram to share an emotional note as his co-star Vaibhavi Hankare bids farewell to the show. The actor posted a series of pictures from a bash at Warehouse Sky Mumbai, tagging co-star Sameeksha Sud and expressing gratitude for the moments shared during their time on the Star Plus drama.

Reflecting on his experience, Sanam wrote, “About 2 nights ago. What a lovely place @sameeksha.sud_ @warehouseskymumbai. Because my memories are black and white, for me this era / 4 months have been the golden teaching period. Most of my scenes have been with #tejasvini @vaibhavihankare , teja you’ve been amazing and how. You’ll be missed. Even if you got a ‘patt se headshot’ , you’ll always be remembered in my memories because the growth that I have shown in my performances , it’s also because of you. Thank you for bearing with my re-takes. Much love. #ruturaj”.

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Vaibhavi played the role of Tejaswini, a woman with a complicated past with Ruturaj who ultimately marries his cousin, Dr. Neil Pradhan (played by Param Singh). Her character struck a chord with the audience, particularly for her on-screen chemistry with Neil, often celebrated under the fan-created ship name “TejNeil”.

However, Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Meiin recently underwent yet another major narrative shift. After attempting a new track with fresh characters, the makers struggled to retain audience interest and TRP ratings. This led to the return of the original leading lady, Bhavika Sharma, reprising her role as Savi who is now IPS officer Savi Thakkar.

Vaibhavi’s exit comes as part of the storyline pivot, which also includes the tragic death of her character Tejaswini in a shocking accident - an event that also claims the life of Rajat Thakkar, Savi’s husband and love interest. The current plot teases a fresh romantic angle between Savi and Neil, whose bond is expected to evolve in the coming episodes.

While fans are excited to see Bhavika back on screen, many have expressed disappointment over Vaibhavi’s sudden departure. Nonetheless, Sanam’s touching tribute serves as a reminder of the strong bond shared by the cast off-screen, even as the story takes new turns on-screen.

Also Read: Bhavika Sharma returns as Savi in Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Meiin; promises an emotional new chapter

Following the escalating tension between India and Pakistan in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, the security situation along the border regions has grown increasingly precarious. With several areas in Jammu and Punjab witnessing fresh missile attacks and drone threats, the Indian government has stepped up border surveillance and tightened security measures. The volatile developments have not only rattled citizens but also drawn sharp attention from Bollywood personalities who have voiced solidarity with the people of Jammu and lauded the Indian Army for its swift and brave response.

On Instagram, actress Kangana Ranaut reacted to recent drone neutralization efforts in Jammu, writing, “Jammu on Target! Indian Air Defence Neutralises Pakistan Drone in Jammu. Stay Strong Jammu.” Her words echo the urgency and concern shared by many as tensions continue to rise.

Richa Chadha offered a somber reminder, urging sensitivity from the public amid the chaos and shared, “It is not a match. It is not a game. War is sombre.. Not everything needs comical commentary or a meme. Please be thoughtful. Some of us feel this anxiety in our bones. Pause for a second and think of the ppl residing in our borders.”

Shraddha Kapoor kept it brief but impactful, stating, “Proud of our Protectors… Jai Hind”.

Veteran actor Anil Kapoor posted, “All my gratitude and prayers for the brave women and men defending us. You are our heroes”. Tanishaa Mukerji raised her voice against the violence, writing, “Stop this war… stop destroying our beautiful land and it’s people! #jammukashmir #missileattacks”, and Angad Bedi shared his heartfelt message, “Waheguru Sukh Rakhe. Shakti de sab nu.. to endure these tough times”. Mini Mathur, echoing the fears of many across the country, added, “This is going to be sleepless night for me. Praying for everyone’s safety”.

On Twitter, Vir Das posted a poignant message for those living in affected regions, “To family, friends and more who sit in blackouts, thinking of you, praying for you. To those protecting us, we thank you. Gratitude, prayers and respect. Be safe, be strong”.

To family, friends and more who sit in blackouts, thinking of you, praying for you. To those protecting us, we thank you. Gratitude, prayers and respect. Be safe, be strong ???????????? — Vir Das (@thevirdas) May 8, 2025

Veteran actor Anupam Kher shared a deeply personal note referencing a video sent by his cousin from Jammu: “My cousin brother #SunilKher sent this video from his home in Jammu. I called immediately and asked him if he and his family are ok? He laughed a little proudly and said, “Brother, we are in India! We are Indians. Our safety lies with the Indian Army and Mata Vaishno Devi. Do not worry. No missile is going to touch the ground here.” He signed off with, “Jai Mata Di, Bharat Mata Ki Jai”.

My cousin brother #SunilKher sent this video from his home in Jammu. I called immediately and asked him if he and his family are ok? He laughed a little proudly and said, भैया! हम भारत में है! हम हिंदुस्तानी है।हमारी सुरक्षा भारतीय सेना और माता वैष्णो देवी कर रही है।आप टेंशन मत… pic.twitter.com/fv8UmCILC0 — Anupam Kher (@AnupamPKher) May 8, 2025

As the crisis unfolds, the Bollywood fraternity’s heartfelt tributes and calls for peace are resonating across social platforms, reflecting the nation’s concern, unity, and unwavering faith in its defenders.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Bollywood filmmakers rush to register ‘Operation Sindoor’ title; several big banners in the race

Vijay Deverakonda is indeed one of the most talented and handsome actors of Indian cinema. The way he takes on different characters with his mesmerizing screen presence is truly incredible. But while he garners a lot of love for his acting, he has a massive fan following for his impeccable style. Being the owner of a clothing brand himself, he knows exactly how to dress in a way that inspires wardrobes and sets trends. As the ultimate heartthrob of Indian cinema celebrates his birthday today, it's the perfect time to take inspiration from Vijay’s stylish attire. Think quick, breezy posts featuring linen shirts, light cotton fits, and effortless looks that he has rocked before, Vijay completely owns the style every time.

Magic of Linen Vijay Deverakonda rocked a matching brown linen co-ord set, pairing it with black chappals and black sunglasses, creating a cool, comfy look that's enough to steal the hearts in one go.

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  A post shared by Vijay Deverakonda (@thedeverakonda)

Cool-Ready Linen Look Vijay aced the breezy beach look in a cream oversized linen co-ord set — perfect for a sun-soaked day by the sea, blending comfort, style, and effortless charm. He has really got a fashion for everything and anywhere.

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  A post shared by Vijay Deverakonda (@thedeverakonda)

Relaxed Yet Refined Vijay looked effortlessly suave in a blue checked full-sleeve cotton shirt, worn semi-open over a white T-shirt. He paired it with grey linen pants and his signature black beanie, perfectly blending comfort with casual, stylish charm.

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  A post shared by Vijay Deverakonda (@thedeverakonda)

Power Dressing Vijay Deverakonda served absolute travel style goals in a brown-grey checked shirt over a rusty grey tank, paired with brown pants, a brown beanie, and black sunglasses, a power-packed travel look.

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  A post shared by Vijay Deverakonda (@thedeverakonda)

Breezy Whites Done Right Vijay Deverakonda looked relaxed in a white T-shirt and black jeans, amplified by a silver chain. He carried a peach and grey checked shirt, adding an extra layer of style to his perfect fit.

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  A post shared by Vijay Deverakonda (@thedeverakonda)

White on White Vijay rocked a crisp white T-shirt layered with a white linen shirt, nailing the all-white look. He paired it with black sunglasses, looking absolutely handsome, fresh, and effortlessly comfy.

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  A post shared by Vijay Deverakonda (@thedeverakonda)

Beachy Shirts, Vijay Style Vijay wore a camel-colored linen shirt paired with white linen pants, creating a perfect color combination that's indeed effortlessly stylish.

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  A post shared by Vijay Deverakonda (@thedeverakonda)

Also Read: Vijay Deverakonda wants Tilak Varma to create a dance reel to ‘Kingdom Hridayam Lopala’ after Pickleball win 

Dairy brand Amul has once again struck the right chord with its latest topical poster - this time celebrating the much-talked-about debut of Shah Rukh Khan at the MET Gala 2025. Known for its witty and timely ads on pop culture and current affairs, Amul paid tribute to the Bollywood megastar with a poster that captures the grandeur of his appearance at the prestigious fashion event held on Monday.

The artwork features a caricatured version of Shah Rukh Khan in his regal avatar designed by renowned couturier Sabyasachi. Staying true to the MET Gala’s 2025 theme, ‘Superfine: Tailoring Black Style’ with the dress code ‘Tailored for You’, the poster calls SRK “India’s Biggest Galakaar”, playing cleverly on the word ‘Gala’ and the Hindi word for ‘artist’. The slogan “Amul – Always In Fashion” adds the brand’s signature flair to the creative.

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  A post shared by Amul - The Taste of India (@amul_india)

This marked the superstar’s grand debut at the MET Gala, a global fashion spectacle that draws the biggest names from entertainment, art, and design. And Shah Rukh Khan did not disappoint. Dressed in a stunning bespoke ensemble by Sabyasachi Mukherjee, he brought an air of classic Indian elegance fused with global tailoring finesse.

According to the designer, Shah Rukh donned a floor-length, elongated coat crafted in Tasmanian superfine wool. The sophisticated coat featured monogrammed Japanese horn buttons, hand canvassing, and a single-breasted cut with a peak collar and wide lapels—details that highlight precision craftsmanship. The look was completed with a crepe de chine silk shirt and sharply tailored superfine wool trousers, paired with a pleated satin kamarbandh, adding a subtle nod to traditional Indian styling.

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  A post shared by Sabyasachi (@sabyasachiofficial)

What truly elevated the look, however, was the striking accessory: The Bengal Tiger Head Cane. This statement piece was crafted in 18k gold and embellished with tourmalines, sapphires, old mine cut, and brilliant cut diamonds—blending opulence with symbolism. The cane served as both a visual anchor and a nod to Sabyasachi’s Bengal heritage.

Shah Rukh Khan’s presence on the MET carpet sent waves across social media, with fans and fashion critics alike praising the actor’s dignified yet daring sartorial statement. Amul’s latest tribute only reinforces the star’s enduring cultural relevance, celebrating a moment where Indian fashion, cinema, and global glamour effortlessly came together.

Also Read: Jaideep Ahlawat reacts to Amul’s Buttery tribute to Paatal Lok Season 2: “I melted like makhan looking at this”

In a heartfelt interview with Marie Claire, Bollywood superstar Deepika Padukone opened up about the emotional and physical challenges she experienced during her pregnancy, revealing that the journey to motherhood was anything but easy.

“I went through a lot in the eight, nine months of being pregnant,” Deepika shared candidly, giving fans a rare and personal glimpse into her experience. Though she did not delve into medical specifics, her tone reflected resilience and emotional depth—marking one of the first times the actress has publicly spoken about the more difficult aspects of her pregnancy.

Deepika and her husband, actor Ranveer Singh, welcomed their daughter earlier in 2024. The couple kept much of the journey private, including the baby's name, until they revealed it on the auspicious occasion of Diwali, November 1, 2024. Sharing a heartwarming photo of tiny feet wrapped in a traditional salwar pyjama, they announced, “Dua Padukone Singh | ??? ??????? ???? ?? ‘Dua’: meaning a Prayer. Because She is the Answer to our Prayers. Our hearts are filled with Love & Gratitude. Deepika & Ranveer.”

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The name ‘Dua’ sparked a variety of reactions on social media, with many admiring its poetic sentiment while others noted its departure from conventional Hindu naming traditions. Addressing the thought process behind the name, Deepika explained, “It felt like a beautiful summary of what she means to us and why she means what she means to us.”

The couple also took their time finalizing the name, choosing to wait until after their daughter was born. “I think what was more important for us was to first hold the baby in our arms, allow her to sort of see this new world she's come into, allow her personality to start developing a little bit…” she said, highlighting their desire to make the choice with emotional clarity and connection.

As the industry and fans continue to pour love on the newest member of the Padukone-Singh family, Deepika’s honest reflections mark a significant shift from the glamour usually associated with celebrity motherhood. Meanwhile, on the work front, Padukone is yet to make a comeback to the industry as she continues to enjoy this journey with their little angel.

Also Read: Deepika Padukone applauds WAVES 2025 for positioning India at the global centre of entertainment: “This is the right time in the way that India is positioned today”

Hungama OTT, one of India’s most popular digital entertainment platforms, formerly known as Hungama, hosted an exclusive success party on 05th May 2025 at Luuma House, Juhu, to mark a bold new chapter in its journey. The event celebrated the brand’s dynamic rebranding to 'Hungama OTT', the expansion of the Hungama OTT app—now available on smart TVs and connected devices, and the unveiling of a bold new content slate featuring 24 original shows across diverse genres, reaffirming its commitment to compelling storytelling. The celebration brought together key figures from the entertainment industry, including Monalisa, Amruta Khanvilkar, Divya Agarwal, Tina Dutta, Gulki Joshi, Yukti Kapoor, Akanksha Puri, among others, marking a significant milestone in the platform’s growth journey.

The celebration highlighted Hungama OTT’s impressive run since its September 2024 content showcase. Many of the shows announced then, such as Flight Attendant, Checkmate, Personal Trainer, Red Room, Pyramid, Pati Patni aur Padosan, Hasratein 2, and Khadaan, have emerged as fan favourites, trending across platforms and garnering critical acclaim. Continuing that momentum, the 2025 slate introduces fresh originals such as Mona ki Monohar Kahaniyaan, Judwa Jaal, Rose Garden, Chakravyuh, Badass begum, Blind Game, Balance show, Hungama Hone Do, Shaadi Ki Uss Raat, Takshika, Girl Scams, Room Service, Bollywood Murder, Hasratein season 3, and Ratri Ke Yatri season 3, promising an eclectic mix of thrillers, dramas, romances, and experimental formats. With the introduction of the Hungama OTT TV app, viewers can now experience this content on a more personalized, intuitive platform, bridging tech and storytelling.

Neeraj Roy, Founder & Managing Director, Hungama Digital Media, said, "Hungama OTT is focussed on delivering compelling and engaging shows with a strong commitment to storytelling. We’re launching an ambitious slate of 24 original shows in a year spanning drama, thrillers and more. while we’ve always been on your phones, we’re now coming into your living rooms. With a new Hungama OTT TV App, we’re bringing our content to the big screen offering a deeper, more immersive viewing experience. This is not just growth; it’s a bold leap into the future shaped entirely around our core audience."

Stay tuned as Hungama OTT continues to redefine India’s digital entertainment narrative—now rebranded, reimagined, and accessible on smart TV screens.

Also Read: World Environment Day 2025: Asif Bhamla, Ajay Devgn, Imtiaz Ali and Hungama’s Neeraj Roy unite for Tik Tik Plastic 3.0

Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi (2005) completed 20 years on April 15 and its surely a film that has stood the test of time. It was one of the first films of Shiney Ahuja and launched the ravishing and talented Chitrangda Singh. Both these powerful actors were joined by the equally powerful Kay Kay Menon. As Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi celebrated its 20th anniversary, Bollywood Hungama exclusively spoke to its acclaimed director Sudhir Mishra about the film, its butchered OTT version and a lot more.

I could see many French names in the cast and crew of Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi. Please tell us about this French connection to the film… Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi began in the mid-90s. The script was written by me and Shiv Kumar Subramaniam. We jammed for a year and I told him many stories of my childhood. Only I could have made the film and nobody else because it comes from a personal space. It’s about things that have happened to me or those around me while I was growing up.

In the mid-90s, I went around hawking the script to many places. Through Shabana Azmi, I took it to Ismail Merchant, Channel 4 and later to the French. I met a producer, Joël Farges, and his company is called Artcam; they agreed to step in. Through Joël, we applied for funds in France. It was approved but we only got a part of the budget. We still needed money from an Indian counterpart. For a year, I tried to raise money. Then, one day, I met Pritish Nandy on a flight. He noticed that I looked worried. I explained to him my situation. He asked me, ‘How much money do you want?’. I replied, ‘A little less than Rs. 2 crores’. I also narrated him the story of the film and he asked me to meet him the next day in his office. That’s how Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi happened.

That’s the French connection. When they give you money, they have a condition – either you have to use French technicians or you have to complete the post-production in France. If you see All We Imagine As Light (2024), its post-production happened in France for the same reason. In my case, I decided to use a French DOP (Jacques Bouquin), editor (Catherine D'Hoir) and sound recordist (Jean-Claude Brisson). All of them were brilliant.

Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi is also memorable as it launched many people… I was very angry while making it and I was clear that I didn’t want actors who were known. Therefore, we went looking for new faces. Also, people forget that Swananand Kirkire was my associate director on Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi; he was not just the singer-songwriter. He wanted to be a director then. He was a part of the film till the end. He had written ‘Bawra Mann’ and I assured him that I’d use it in the film. And I did use, during the end titles. As Shiney puts his head on Chitrangda’s shoulders, ‘Bawra Mann’ plays. The placement of the song is such that it makes you sit down and process. The audience doesn’t immediately get up from their seats.

What was the total cost of the film? It was roughly less than Rs. 3 crores.

As per the censor certificate, Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi was certified on October 24, 2003, and it was released only 1 ½ years later… Yes, it took a while as it was a difficult film to be released. It was a bad time in Indian cinema. There were very few multiplexes in the country. There was no social media either. Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi is a film which was publicized by those who saw it then, through text messages or by calling their friends and loved ones. Also, it did reasonably well. It ran for 8 weeks in 3 theatres in Mumbai and also for 10 weeks in Delhi. Sadly, many also consumed the film on pirated prints. Now, everywhere I go, many know me by Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi. It is unfortunate for my other films though!

Did the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) ask for any cuts? During the first stage, they did. I had to go to the Revising Committee. Then, it was passed. When it was released in 2005, there was the UPA government. Therefore, they didn’t consider the film for the National Awards.

I happened to catch the film again on Amazon Prime Video and I was shocked to see many scenes are cut. The film begins with the iconic speech of Mr Jawaharlal Nehru followed by your observation about the ex-Prime Minister’s ‘horological mistake’. The Amazon version begins straight with the text, thus cutting out the speech. The riot scenes that follow this text have also been deleted. Vikram’s (Shiney Ahuja) intro voiceover is cut halfway. Vikram looking at Siddharth’s (Kay Kay Menon) mansion and remarking ‘And these guys are supposed to be Marxists’ is also chopped off. There are many other shots that have been butchered… I don’t know why those parts have been cut. I really find it odd. I don’t own the film. I have been saying this for the long time that the beginning of the film – Nehru’s speech – is not there. I have no idea why they have done that. Earlier, it was on Netflix; even there, it was cut. I don’t know who edited it. Maybe, you should ask PNC (Pritish Nandy Communcations)

Do you think it is possible to make a film like Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi in today’s times? If I wanted to make a film, I would have tried. I am not that kind of sensationalist that I’ll make a statement that I couldn’t have made this film in the present day. I made Afwaah (2023), which is far more aggressive than Hazaaron. I also made Serious Men (2020), which is about a Dalit man. I am now making a film about the JP Movement. Hence, I’ll make the film I want to make. If I can’t tell, then I’ll tell you. If I start saying that it is difficult for me to make films, what will happen to the young and aspiring filmmakers?

Also, every society has some weak points and default lines. We need to learn to circumvent them. Look like how Iranians make films in a certain way. Even the Americans are required to make films in a certain way. There’s no such thing as absolute freedom! Go to Europe now and you’ll realize this aspect even more. Therefore, one should not get bogged down by imaginary fears.

It’s the era of re-releases. Would you like to re-release Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi? I want it to be re-released. When Pritish Nandy was alive, I had asked him. But now he is no more. Nevertheless, I’ll ask Rangita Pritish Nandy. I didn’t ask earlier as Pritish had just passed away. But now, I will bring this topic up.

Also Read: Geeta Kapur reflects on working with Farah Khan, “Strict on set, loving off camera”

Producer Prerna Arora got talking about the debate over star kids, her upcoming venture and the accusations of financial irregularity levied against her in an interview with us.

The never-ending debate on star kids continues. Your take on this?

There are good and bad in every walk of life. There are the talented star children and the not-so-talented ones. Sir, are you trying to say all outsiders deserve success? The ones who are talented get their due. Akshay sir and now Kartik Aaryan are outsiders who became superstars. And what about the two biggest superstars of Hindi cinema Amitabh sir and Rajesh Khanna ji… Did they have relatives in the film industry?

So, would you like to work with the star kids?

I would definitely like to work with some of them like Kareena Kapoor Khan, Ranbir Kapoor and Hrithik Roshan and among the newcomers Babil Khan who seems to have inherited his father’s intensity. Some of the others I would pass.

Whom would you pass?

Sir, am I stupid to tell you that? It is never nice to speak ill of anyone, especially those who are just starting out. They are all children, precious to their parents. Would I like it if someone spoke ill of my child when I have one? We must give them space to grow.

You shot recently in the South with Sudheer Babu for Jatadhara. Was that good?

It was not just good, sir. It was a revealing experience. The discipline, the work ethics, the value of time… all of these and many other factors made my shooting in the South a memorable experience. And why are we talking South-North? Didn’t we cross that line long back?

You have recently been accused of financial irregularity?

We all value our reputation. I am not going to allow anyone to slander me.

Also Read: Prerna Arora on Manoj Kumar: “Listening to him was like reliving the Golden Era”