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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alisha Chinai had a conversation with Komal Nahta in which she shared fascinating and not-so-known trivia about singing the iconic song ‘Kajra Re’ from Bunty Aur Babli (2005). She began by saying, “The makers told me that it was an item song and that maybe Aishwarya Rai Bachchan would be doing it. Moreover, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy were the composers, while Gulzar saab had written the lyrics. I was completely spellbound by the whole experience, especially how Gulzar saab wrote the song. The alaap in the song was created on the spot. He wrote it in 10-15 minutes. I sang the song and completed the recording. Then he said, ‘Something is missing’. That’s how he came up with the alaap. I was wowed!”

Alisha then revealed how she was approached to sing ‘Kajra Re’, “I was chilling in my house in Alibaug. I am a loner. Main duniyadaari mein bahut zyada vishwas nahin rakhti. I have no social skills, though I am learning. So, Ehsaan called me and asked, ‘Can you get here in 2 hours?’. I replied, ‘No. I am chilling in Alibaug’. He replied, ‘Alisha, it’s a very important song. Please get here’. I asked him, ‘Can’t we do it another day?’. His answer was, ‘No. We have to do it now’.”

Alisha continued, “So, I quickly left and reached Purple Haze Studio. I was pleasantly surprised as everybody was waiting for me – Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, Gulzar saab, Rani Mukerji and Abhishek Bachchan. Shankar started playing it and I asked him, ‘Mera gaana kahaan hai?’. He said, ‘This is the song you have to sing’. I replied, ‘Yeh toh qawwali type gaana hai’! He said, ‘Yes. Sing it your way’. I liked that because they made a modern pop qawwali out of it. The way I sang it, it just sounds different. That worked wonders. It was like magic. On top of it, there was Aishwarya Rai; oh my God! And it doesn’t end there. Mr Bachchan and his son, too, featured in the song.”

Alisha Chinai then added, “I finished recording the song in just 2 hours. They called me back a week later. I was told that Mr Aditya Chopra wanted more of Alisha’s voice in it. I was like, ‘Wow. Ok. Thank you’! So, I came back and sang another verse. I can’t remember now what exactly it was.”

Alisha Chinai also stated that she was amazed with the response to ‘Kajra Re’ in cinemas, “Sab paise fek rahe the in theatres. As for Aishwarya, she looked like a Goddess. Also, my voice (matched her); it seemed like she herself was singing the song.”

Also Read: Alisha Chinai on turning 60, “I feel like a cat who has survived nine lives”

Planning your next getaway but not sure where to go? Sometimes, the best travel inspiration comes from the places our favourite celebrities choose to escape to. From picturesque European cities and tropical island getaways to breathtaking African landscapes, Bollywood stars have given us plenty of destination envy over the years.

Whether you are looking for a romantic escape, a relaxing beach holiday or an adventure-filled trip, these celebrity-approved destinations deserve a spot on your travel bucket list. This World Tourism Day, take some inspiration from Bollywood’s favourite travel spots and start planning your next holiday. Kareena Kapoor Khan – Greece If crystal-clear waters, sun-soaked islands and laid-back luxury are what you are looking for, Greece should be high on the list. Kareena Kapoor Khan’s holiday moments from Greece have offered plenty of inspiration for anyone dreaming of an idyllic Mediterranean escape.

From the iconic blue-and-white views of Santorini to the beaches and vibrant atmosphere of Mykonos, Greece offers the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration. It is a destination that works just as well for a romantic getaway as it does for a fun-filled holiday with family or friends.

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Aamna Sharif – France For those who dream of a holiday filled with timeless architecture, charming streets, beautiful cafés and effortless fashion, France makes for the perfect escape. Aamna Sharif has often embraced the beauty of the country during her travels, making it easy to see why France continues to be a favourite among travellers.

From exploring the streets of Paris and taking in its iconic landmarks to enjoying the slower pace of the French countryside, there is plenty to discover. Add in the food, art and unmistakable European charm, and France has everything you need for a memorable holiday.

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Parineeti Chopra – Maldives For travellers who would happily spend their holiday surrounded by turquoise waters and pristine beaches, the Maldives is hard to beat. Parineeti Chopra’s tropical getaways have showcased exactly why the island destination remains one of the most popular choices for a relaxing holiday.

With private villas, beautiful lagoons, water activities and sunsets that look straight out of a postcard, the Maldives is ideal for anyone looking to disconnect from the everyday routine. Whether it is a quiet island retreat or an adventure on the water, the destination offers plenty of ways to unwind.

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Alia Bhatt – Africa For those who want their holiday to go beyond sightseeing, Africa offers an experience unlike any other. Alia Bhatt’s travels have brought attention to the continent’s stunning landscapes and immersive experiences, making it an exciting addition to any travel bucket list.

From unforgettable wildlife encounters and expansive safaris to dramatic landscapes and unique local experiences, Africa is a destination for travellers looking for adventure and something truly different. A safari across the continent can offer a chance to experience nature up close while creating memories that stay with you long after the holiday is over.

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Sara Ali Khan – Switzerland Few destinations capture the magic of a classic holiday quite like Switzerland. Sara Ali Khan’s travels have given fans a glimpse of its snow-covered mountains, scenic landscapes and picture-perfect surroundings.

Whether it is exploring charming Swiss towns, taking a scenic train journey through the Alps or simply soaking in the views, Switzerland offers something for every kind of traveller. It is particularly perfect for those who want a holiday that feels straight out of a postcard, with breathtaking scenery at almost every turn.

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Also Read: World Tourism Day Special: Let Ananya Panday, Mrunal Thakur and more celebs inspire your next dream vacation

A day after Ranbir Kapoor’s first look from Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s much-awaited Love & War was unveiled, Alia Bhatt’s first look from the film has now caught attention online. The actor’s dramatic cabaret-inspired appearance also received a special shoutout from veteran actor Zeenat Aman, who expressed her appreciation for the look.

On Friday, Alia shared two posters featuring her character from Love & War. The posters show the actor performing on stage in a striking cabaret-themed outfit. She can be seen wearing a dramatic feathered headpiece, a crop top and a skirt with a thigh-high slit, which she paired with boots.

The look quickly drew reactions on social media, including one from Zeenat Aman, who is known for her iconic screen appearances in several films featuring cabaret performances during the 1970s. Zeenat Aman calls Alia a “showgirl” Reacting to Alia’s posters, Zeenat wrote in the comments, “Well, well…SLB has unleashed a showgirl! (sparkle and purple heart emojis)”

Alia responded to the veteran actor’s comment and revealed that Zeenat had frequently been discussed on the sets of Love & War. She wrote, “@thezeenataman Thank you so much, Zeenat Ma’am (yellow heart emoji) We’ve spoken about you countless times on set, so this feels extra special (sparkle emojis)”

Zeenat also shared one of Alia’s Love & War posters on her Instagram Stories. Alongside the picture, she wrote, “The 70’s are back and cabaret never looked this good!” She tagged Alia in the post and added a purple heart emoji.

Love & War is written, directed and produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. The filmmaker is also involved in editing and composing the film. The project stars Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal in the lead roles.

While details about the plot are being kept under wraps, Love & War is reportedly set against the backdrop of war and revolves around a love story. Earlier leaked looks had reportedly suggested that Ranbir and Vicky could be seen portraying military officers, although the makers have not revealed the complete details of their characters.

The film is scheduled to arrive in theatres on January 21, 2027. Further details about the characters and storyline are awaited.

Also Read: Kareena Kapoor Khan REACTS to Alia Bhatt’s Love & War poster: “Killingggg it Alooooooo”

Producer Anupriya Nagar, who is just 21 years old, has opened up about the initial struggles faced by Hanuman Ansh after its release. In an interview with Siddharth Kanan, Anupriya recalled how the film’s declining screen count and lack of support left her questioning whether she wanted to continue in the film industry.

Speaking about the film’s early box office performance, Anupriya said, “It was disheartening to see that the film was not doing well at the box office. I wasn’t disheartened because we weren’t making money. I was disheartened because people weren’t watching the film. I couldn’t understand whether devotees were not going to watch it or whether they were going and not enjoying it. We simply didn’t understand what was happening. That was one of the most difficult times,”

She revealed that she decided to personally step in and create awareness around the film. “I thought, I am one of the producers of this film, and I have invested my hard-earned money in this project so that people watch it and know about Maharaj Ji. I couldn’t just sit with my hands folded,”

Anupriya travelled to Delhi, met leaders and devotees and also turned to podcasts and interviews to generate word of mouth. “I went to Delhi and thought I would meet whoever I could. I met top leaders, I met a lot of his devotees and tried to get them to post something from their handles, so that there could be some word of mouth. I wanted some kind of movement to happen. I thought, let me do podcasts. Honestly, at that time nobody knew me. Nobody knew that Hanuman Ansh was coming or that it was about Maharaj Ji. I also want to thank those podcasters and interviewers who gave me the opportunity to speak through their channels at that time,”

The situation became even more difficult when the makers were informed that the film’s screen count had fallen sharply. “We got a call on the eighth day saying, ‘Your film has gone from 300 screens to 30 screens. Maybe tomorrow your film will be out because two more films are coming.’ We were told that perhaps only a miracle could save the film and that it might be out of theatres the next day,”

Recalling the uncertainty within the team, she added, “There were people in the team who were thinking that everything was over and that perhaps we should get a good OTT deal so that we could recover the money. That was the most difficult time we saw,”

Anupriya admitted that the experience even made her consider leaving the industry. “When the film was declared a flop, I thought maybe I would pack my bags and go back to Zurich. I thought this industry was not meant for me. I had reached that stage where I was thinking I would leave the industry and go back,”

She also recalled how difficult it had been to find investment for the film during its initial stages. “Since the beginning, even before I came on board, the Hanuman Ansh team had gone to many people for investment for post-production, but nobody agreed to invest, even though it wasn’t a very big investment.”

According to Anupriya, the film was initially viewed as a small-budget project without established names. “Before the release, there were a handful of people who supported us, but many people didn’t believe in the project. They thought it was a small-budget film, the director was making his first film, and the actors were also new. They thought the film would come and go. People didn’t have that belief.”

However, she says the perception around the film has since changed. “I am so glad the industry’s thought process has now changed. Everyone in the industry is supporting us,” she said.

She further revealed that several producers have since reached out to congratulate the team and acknowledge their initial doubts. “Lots of producers have reached out and it is very sweet. They have congratulated us. Some of them have actually come to me and said, ‘First of all, I apologise because this film had come to us. We are sorry we couldn’t join you. That was the biggest mistake I made.’”

“They said, ‘You have made us realise that a small film can do so much. You have given a lesson to the industry.’ They told us, ‘Whatever you want, we are with you.’ It is very sweet. I don’t blame them because it was a very small film,” she added.

Hanuman Ansh is a biographical drama directed by Vishal Chaturvedi and based on the life and teachings of Neem Karoli Baba. The film stars Shobhinaw Satyaa, Vihaan Shedge, Chandan Anand, Purnima Tiwari, Anil Rastogi and Gulshan Pandey in key roles. Hanuman Ansh released in cinemas on August 7, 2026

Also Read: Hanuman Ansh Box Office: Film collects Rs. 3.43 cr on Day 48, takes total closer to Rs. 280 cr

This year, December is going to be a treat for moviegoers. Shraddha Kapoor’s much-awaited period drama, Eetha, will release on December 4. Two weeks later, December 18 will witness the epic clash between Avengers: Doomsday and Dune: Part Three. A week later, on December 24, Jumanji: Open World will clash with Shah Rukh Khan’s highly anticipated flick, King. While there’s tremendous excitement among audiences to watch these four diverse films during the holiday season, there’s also concern over how screen-sharing will play out. Many expect an intense tussle for screens, especially at single-screen cinemas.

Bollywood Hungama exclusively spoke with Kamal Gianchandani, Chief Business Planning & Strategy at PVR INOX Limited and CEO of PVR INOX Pictures Limited, about this aspect. When asked whether he expects screen-sharing problems to arise, he replied, “It’s a good problem to have! We have a very experienced team who have been doing it for ages. We’ll handle it. There’s no problem with respect to capacities. In India, we have enough and more capacity to now handle 2 or 3 big releases in the same week. We’ll handle it easily.”

Two days from now, on Friday, September 25, Avengers Endgame: Encore will release and is expected to open with a bang. Kamal Gianchandani predicted, “The advances are fantastic. It’ll smash all re-release records without a doubt.”

Interestingly, the hype surrounding the re-release of Avengers Endgame: Encore also indicates the enormous anticipation for the next film in the franchise, Avengers: Doomsday, which is expected to put up a huge number on its opening day.

Kamal Gianchandani agreed, “It’s a foregone conclusion. If Endgame is having this sort of a response, you can imagine the response that Doomsday will have. It’ll be a monstrous December with Doomsday, Dune: Part Three, Jumanji: Open World and King. December is shaping up to be absolutely massive this year.”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: PVR INOX’s Kamal Gianchandani on Hollywood’s record-breaking India run: “People are tired of consuming films at home”; predicts Avengers Endgame: Encore will “SMASH all re-release records”; CONFIRMS India releases of Godzilla Minus Zero, Artificial

Filmmaker Aditya Dhar attended the 72nd National Film Awards with wife and actor Yami Gautam, as their 2024 film Article 370 emerged as one of the major winners at the ceremony. The film won Best Feature Film, while Yami was honoured with Best Actress for her performance. Article 370 also won Best Music Direction for Shashwat Sachdev.

However, when Aditya Dhar was asked about his much-anticipated film Dhurandhar during a red carpet interaction, the filmmaker kept the focus firmly on the film being celebrated that evening. Aditya Dhar says, “Today, it is all about Article 370” During the interaction, Aditya Dhar was asked about making what was described as one of the biggest films in the Indian film industry. While the question referred to Dhurandhar, Dhar pointed out that the occasion was about Article 370 and its National Award recognition. “We are here for Article 370, we will discuss Dhurandhar hopefully if we come next year also. But, today, it is all about Article 370,” he said.

The comment comes as Dhurandhar continues to remain a major talking point around Dhar’s upcoming work. Since the current National Film Awards recognise films from the 2024 eligibility cycle, Dhurandhar is not part of this year’s awards. The film could be considered for a future edition, subject to the applicable eligibility rules.

Watch | We will discuss Dhurandhar if we come next year also, but today it's about Article 370: Dhurandhar Maker Aditya Dhar at Ektanagar in Gujarat for National Film Awards with his Actress Wife Yami Gautam pic.twitter.com/AxsgUcaMBV — DeshGujarat (@DeshGujarat) September 22, 2026

Yami Gautam Dhar calls National Award the “biggest validation” For Yami Gautam, the evening marked a major milestone as she received her first National Film Award for her performance in Article 370. Speaking about the honour, the actor said, “It feels great. We were just discussing, this is the biggest validation for any artist. I think it is the highest honour presented to you by your country. I don't think I will be able to express right now. I am smiling, but from inside I am feeling like an energy of a newcomer for whom everything is so big, everything is so new and special,” Yami said.

The actor's win came alongside Article 370 being named Best Feature Film and Shashwat Sachdev receiving the award for Best Music Direction. Article 370’s National Film Awards recognition Directed by Aditya Suhas Jambhale, Article 370 was among the films recognised at the 72nd National Film Awards. The ceremony was held on September 22, 2026, in Ekta Nagar, Kevadia, Gujarat. It marked the first time the National Film Awards ceremony was held outside Delhi.

Also Read: Aditya Dhar teases wife Yami Gautam over Nayyi Navelli poster; says, “So this is what i married into”

Filmmaker Meghna Gulzar has opened up about how films portray patriotism differently, comparing her 2018 directorial Raazi with the more action-driven Dhurandhar. According to Meghna, the difference lies in the stories being told rather than the level of patriotism displayed by their characters.

The filmmaker discussed the subject during her appearance on the podcast Learn By KK Create. Asked about Dhurandhar and whether her approach to patriotism differs from that seen in other films, Meghna said that the characters in Raazi are not less patriotic simply because their patriotism is expressed differently on screen.

“The difference is in the story. I don't think Raazi's characters aren't any less patriotic than Dhurandhar's characters. It is their actions because of the way the story is. That is how they are depicted. One does not have to be right, and the other has to be wrong. Patriotism and prayers don't need volume. And they aren't expressed in one particular way. Every individual has their own way of expression,” she said. Meghna Gulzar on patriotism and moral choices in Raazi Released in 2018, Raazi starred Alia Bhatt as Sehmat, a young Indian woman who is recruited as an undercover operative and sent to Pakistan during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. The film explores her mission through personal relationships, sacrifice and the moral consequences of her actions.

For Meghna, the character's patriotism does not necessarily translate into an absence of moral conflict. When asked whether there was a limit to the kind of patriotism she would portray on screen, she said the character's own boundaries were what mattered. “There is no limit. If the character does not have a limit, how will I have a limit? And there was no limit of Raazi's character's patriotism. She had a limit when it came to her moral compass,” Meghna said.

On the professional front, Meghna Gulzar is currently gearing up for her latest directorial, Daayra, which stars Kareena Kapoor Khan and Malayalam actor Prithviraj Sukumaran.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: “Meghna Gulzar gave me a character that had real weight; sharing screen space with Kareena Kapoor was an experience,” says Upendra Chauhan on Daayra

Bigg Boss 20 contestant Kanika Mann received a special shoutout from Sidharth Malhotra during the latest Weekend Ka Vaar episode. The actor, who appeared on the show with Tamannaah Bhatia to promote their upcoming film The Vvaan: Force of the Forrest, spoke to the contestants and had a few words of appreciation for Kanika.

During his interaction with the housemates, Sidharth praised Kanika's personality and the way she has been conducting herself inside the Bigg Boss house. He referred to her as a “true alpha” and also revealed that his mother has been following her journey on the reality show.

The shoutout came as Kanika continues to navigate the various equations and disagreements inside the Bigg Boss house. The actress has frequently expressed her opinions during conversations with fellow contestants and has been involved in several discussions as the season progresses.

Sidharth's mention of his mother watching Kanika's journey added a personal touch to the interaction. His appreciation also gave Kanika a moment of recognition during the Weekend Ka Vaar episode.

Meanwhile, Sidharth and Tamannaah appeared on the show as part of the promotions for The Vvaan: Force of the Forrest. Their appearance included interactions with Salman Khan and the contestants, with Kanika's shoutout emerging as one of the highlights for the actress.

For Kanika, the moment marked a notable interaction with Sidharth, particularly after the actor acknowledged her presence and personality on the show.

Nikkhil Advani began his career as an assistant director before making a smashing directorial debut with Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003). After helming several significant films, he switched gears and carved a niche for himself in the OTT space with shows like Mumbai Diaries, Freedom at Midnight and the recently released The Revolutionaries. He has also produced acclaimed shows such as The Empire, Rocket Boys and Adhura, along with films like Airlift (2016) and Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway (2023), further adding to his impressive body of work. In a recent interview, Nikkhil opened up like never before about his family migrating from Sindh during the Partition and also spoke about how younger generations are reacting to his films.

After Kal Ho Naa Ho, Nikkhil Advani’s next directorial was Salaam-E-Ishq (2007), followed by Chandni Chowk To China (2009). The latter, starring Akshay Kumar and Deepika Padukone, didn’t receive a favourable response from the audience at the time. However, Nikkhil revealed that Gen Z viewers have since appreciated the film, with many even asking him to make a sequel to Chandni Chowk To China.

Nikkhil Advani told Mumbai Mirror, “The people asking me for a Chandni Chowk sequel today were four years old when it was released (laughs). They didn’t care about narrative structure; they just saw Akshay Kumar [who plays a chef in the film] fighting a giant potato and somehow it worked for them.”

In the same interview, the acclaimed filmmaker revealed that in the summer of 1947, just before the Partition, his great-grandfather flew with his whole family from Sindh to Mumbai, before the former became a part of Pakistan.

Nikkhil Advani also revealed that during the journey, his grandfather carried a heavy money belt strapped around his waist. The money was not his savings. According to the article, “He worked for Habib Bank, which was shifting its headquarters to Karachi at Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s behest”. Hence, he was entrusted to deliver the cash to its Bombay branch. And his grandfather "handed over every rupee".

Also Read: Akshay Kumar and Vipul Shah’s Samuk takes authenticity to another level in London; makers use REAL helicopter for dramatic sequence instead of VFX

Lyricist Sameer had a conversation with Komal Nahta and spoke about the banners and filmmakers he particularly enjoyed working with over the years. Sameer said, “I had a wonderful time working with Yash Chopra and his production house. I haven’t done a lot of work with them; I wrote songs for Aaina (1993), Yeh Dillagi (1994), Dhoom (2004), Dhoom 2 (2006) and Dhoom 3 (2013). Unke yahaan kaam karne ka mazaa hai kyunki bahut sensibility ke saath kaam hota hai. While working with them, you’d feel like you are a part of their family. They understand cinema, the craft, lyrics, poetry, etc.”

Sameer continued, “I wrote 3 films for B R Chopra – Kal Ki Awaz (1992), Baghban (2003) and Baabul (2006). I can’t tell you the contribution of Chopra saab during Baghban. I had a good time working with Karan Johar. I only did two films with him – Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998) and Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001). Lekin jo kaam karne ki samajh uss aadmi mein hai, khaas kar music ko leke, it's praiseworthy.”

Sameer revealed, “At one point, Jatin-Lalit almost quit Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. They were pressurized by the presence so many stars of different generations. I told them, ‘Yeh film aap log mat chodo. Bas Karan ko follow karo’. That’s what I did. The song ‘Say Shava Shava’ was difficult as it had so many actors – Amit ji bhi hai, Jaya ji bhi hai, Shah Rukh bhi hai, Rani bhi hai, Kajol bhi hai. But that man (Karan Johar) narrates so minutely that it became very easy. Mujhe pata bhi nahin chala maine Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham ke gaane kab likh diye!”

Sameer then started, “The first song of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, which was released, was, ‘Tum Paas Aaye, Yun Muskuraaye’. David Dhawan heard the song. He called and told me, ‘Bada ganda gaana likha hai tune, yaar. Meri picture mein aisa gaana likhna mat’ (laughs)! I asked him, ‘Teri picture ka gaana hai? Tu kyun pareshan ho raha hai? Jaane de na’. He said, ‘Meri film ke gaane bhi release hue hain. Uss film ke music ko khatam nahin kar diya toh tu mujhe bata’!”

The film David Dhawan mentioned was Bade Miyan Chote Miyan (1998) and Sameer wrote the songs for it as well. Sameer added, “Both films (Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and Bade Miyan Chote Miyan) were released on the same day and the songs of both the movies were blockbusters.”

Also Read: Subhash Ghai celebrates Ishita Deshmukh as Gondhal becomes India’s official Oscar entry

Lyricist Sameer had a conversation with Komal Nahta, during which he went down memory lane and shared several anecdotes related to prominent films and stars. He also spoke about the importance of music in cinema.

Sameer said, “A film can become a hit even without a song. For example, a film like Kanoon (1960) did work. But viewers will go to watch such films once. Film ki repeat value gaana hota tha. Once you see the film and know it story, toh aap baar baar kya wohi dekhne jaoge? During Aashiqui (1990), I witnessed viewers entering the theatre to see the song. Once the song would end, they would go out, have tea and then come back again to catch the next song. They had calculated the gap between the two songs and would enter the theatre accordingly! Imagine the importance of music. Also, in the 90s, we gave maximum hits with newcomers. Phool Aur Kaante (1991) was Ajay Devgn’s first film. Kya music tha uss film ka.”

He then spoke about music director Nadeem Saifi of Nadeem-Shravan fame, “Nadeem saw Ajay Devgn and told director Kuku Kohli, ‘Isko mat leke aana. Mujhe depression ho jaayega. How will we be inspired to write songs? Tumko yehi ek actor mila tha.’ But when he saw him in the film, he congratulated him. He accepted that (he made a mistake). I don’t know if Kuku ever told Ajay about this episode!”

Sameer continued, “That’s how Nadeem is. He would not mince words. Ramesh Sippy offered a film to us, Zamaana Deewana (1995; starring Shah Rukh Khan and Raveena Tandon). We did the film eventually. Ramesh ji narrated the film to us for 2 ½ hours and then asked him, ‘Nadeem bhai, kaisa laga?’. Any other person would hesitate, especially when sitting in front of such a big director. But Nadeem told him, ‘Aisi wahiyaad kahani maine nahin suni’ (laughs)!”

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Katrina Kaif has opened up about her evolving skincare journey, revealing how post-pregnancy changes made her routine more careful and intentional. Her comments to The Hollywood Reporter arrive at a time when the actress has faced extensive trolling over her recent post-pregnancy appearance, making her beauty insights particularly resonant for fans navigating similar concerns.

Katrina explained that her skin’s needs changed significantly after becoming a mother. “Post-pregnancy, my skin became even more sensitive, so it was a really tricky time because I had to understand what products were working for me. I found myself looking for products that felt soothing, calming and restorative,” she said.

This phase led her to prioritize barrier health in her regimen. Speaking about her own range of products, Kaif added, “It reinforced my belief that focusing on your barrier support and repair is so important, as it’s our skin’s first line of defence to environmental stressors.”

Reflecting on how her approach to beauty has evolved over the years, Katrina noted a shift from external stereotypes to internal well-being. “It’s changed a lot. When I started out early through my modelling and acting career, there were a lot of stereotypes about what the beauty standards were. Now for me, looking my best is really about feeling my best, and that comes from taking care of myself as a whole,” she stated.

She listed several non-negotiables that influence how her skin behaves: “A healthy diet, keeping the inflammation in your body under control, staying active, meditation, a phone-free daily hour of your morning and getting natural light first thing in the morning. It all makes a huge difference to how I feel, and ultimately how my skin behaves. I think when you feel healthy, that confidence naturally reflects on the outside.”

Katrina also emphasized the importance of being responsive to her skin’s changing needs. “I’ve learnt to be adaptable and responsive to what my skin needs at a particular phase or time. Stress, inflammation and environment all play a big factor. Sensitive skin can behave very differently from one day to the next,” she said.

At present, her focus is on hydration and resilience. “Right now, in this phase, I’m focusing on deep cellular hydration, supporting and strengthening my skin barrier and keeping it calm and resilient. Even makeup application is hugely improved when the skin is cared for,” Katrina added.

With her candid breakdown, the actress offers a blueprint that goes beyond products—centring on barrier care, lifestyle balance and self-trust in a phase of life that many women find confusing and highly scrutinized.

Also Read: Katrina Kaif expands Kay Beauty into skincare with Hydra Glaze Essence and Hydra Base Water Crème

Lyricist Sameer Anjaan recently revisited a difficult chapter from the early stages of his career during an appearance on Komal Nahta’s Game Changers: The Music Series. The lyricist recalled an incident involving a music director, who he chose not to name, and revealed how the encounter became a moment of self-doubt before eventually motivating him to continue pursuing songwriting.

Sameer, son of veteran songwriter Anjaan, recalled that the incident took place before he met music director Usha Khanna. He said the unnamed music director was a good acquaintance of his father. After listening to several of Sameer’s songs, the music director reportedly questioned his decision to pursue songwriting.

Sharing details of the interaction, Sameer said, "There was an incident before I visited Usha Khanna. I will not disclose the name of the music director, but he was a good acquaintance of my father.” He further recalled, “I showed him a few of my songs. After listening to 15–20 songs attentively, he said, 'You have a good education, you had a job, and you are the son of such a good ‘Shayar’; why would you ruin his reputation? I can give you in writing that you will never become a songwriter. Don’t waste your time here. If you need money, I will give it to you; go back to Banaras.' In anger, he threw my music diary from the third floor,” he shared.

The incident left Sameer questioning his abilities as a songwriter, particularly because the criticism had come from someone who knew his father. However, he said he remembered a line from his father’s work, which gave him the motivation to continue.

He went on to add, “While I was going down to retrieve it, I had so many questions in my mind. This music director was a friend of my father. He had listened to my songs for 45 minutes to an hour, and if his reaction was like this, was there a problem with my skills? Then I remembered a line from my father’s work: 'Jag abhi jeeta nahi hai, tu abhi haara nahi hai. Faisla hone se pehle haar mat swikaar karna.' I found new motivation in those words. I picked up my diary and went straight to Santa Cruz, to Usha Khanna’s house in Khar Road."

Sameer Anjaan is among the prolific lyricists in Indian cinema and holds a Guinness World Record for writing the highest number of film songs. His appearance on Game Changers: The Music Series offered a glimpse into the struggles that preceded his established career.

This version keeps the focus on the incident and Sameer’s recollection, while avoiding unverified conclusions about the unnamed music director or adding details beyond the supplied material.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: “Don’t know if Hera Pheri 3 will be made, there is no clear picture,” says Sameer Anjaan

Sara Ali Khan is in New York for Fashion Week, where she is set to attend the Tommy Hilfiger Spring 2027 runway show. Ahead of the showcase, the actor spoke to Lifestyle Asia India about her approach to fashion, the pieces currently inspiring her, and how she likes to spend her time in the Big Apple.

For Sara, personal style is less about following a fixed set of fashion rules and more about letting individuality take the lead. When asked about a fashion rule she has stopped following, she shared a simple philosophy: “Impress other people, express yourself is my new one.”

She also believes that an outfit should complement the person wearing it rather than become the focus of attention. “Just don't let the outfit wear you, be yourself in whatever you wear and then your personality will come through is what I think,” Sara said. Sara Ali Khan’s current fashion moodboard While Sara has experimented with vibrant and colourful looks over the years, her current fashion moodboard is taking a more understated direction. The actor said she has been enjoying minimal silhouettes and a more restrained colour palette. “Minimalistic, monotones, I'm enjoying that. I've done so much like colourful shock and awe in my life that it's kind of nice to do some basics,” she said.

Her current preference also reflects her broader approach to fashion. Rather than building her wardrobe around every new trend, Sara said she prefers dressing in a way that feels comfortable and authentic. “I don't never really follow trends, I think just be yourself and be comfortable in your own skin has been what I do,” she said. From fashion staples to everyday favourites When it comes to the pieces she is most drawn to, Sara has a soft spot for practical wardrobe staples. Asked about her biggest fashion weakness between shoes, bags, jewellery and jackets, she picked two. “Well, I love winter jackets and I like tote bags, so it's between the two depending on where I'm going,” she said.

For the one fashion piece she believes everyone should own, Sara chose a classic from the brand she is set to watch on the runway. “I think a Tommy Hilfiger cable net,” she said, referring to the label's cable-knit style. What would be on Sara’s fashion soundtrack? Fashion and music often go hand in hand, and Sara took a personal route when asked what song would accompany her outfit for the evening. “My outfit tonight, I don't know something like reminds me, maybe my Columbia school anthem,” she said.

The answer is also a nod to her connection with New York. Sara studied at Columbia University and has previously spoken about her time in the city. Sara Ali Khan’s Perfect New York Day For Sara, a day off in New York is not necessarily about ticking off tourist attractions. Her ideal day involves a mix of exercise, food and plenty of walking. “Barry's Boot Camp, Whole Foods, Mamo, walking, more walking, some desserts, some more Mamo, then you're too tired for Barry's Boot Camp,” she said.

Having lived in the city, Sara also finds that some of the most quintessentially New York experiences are the everyday ones. Asked about the most New York thing she has done on this trip, she said, “I've lived here, so I don't know like what the most New York thing is, like take a subway, talk to a stranger, eat a pizza on the road, just these things.”

From keeping her fashion moodboard minimal to choosing comfort and individuality over trends, Sara’s approach to style appears to be rooted in making fashion work for her rather than the other way around. And as she heads to the Tommy Hilfiger Spring 2027 showcase, her current fashion philosophy seems to be less about making a statement for others and more about expressing herself.

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Director Meghna Gulzar recently opened up about her experiences of working with several prominent actors, including Irrfan Khan, Vicky Kaushal, Deepika Padukone, Alia Bhatt, Tabu, Sushmita Sen, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Prithviraj Sukumaran. During a conversation for The Indian Express’ Expresso series, Meghna reflected on the different working styles of the actors she has collaborated with over the years. The filmmaker, known for films such as Raazi, Talvar and Sam Bahadur, is currently preparing for the release of Daayra, which stars Kareena and Prithviraj.

Irrfan Khan

Talking about her experience with Irrfan Khan in Talvar, Meghna said she had very little to do when it came to directing him. “I really had nothing to do. Everything he did, he made me look good,” she said. However, she revealed that there was one aspect of their collaboration that she still does not have an answer to. “I still don’t know which side of Talvar’s perspective he believes or agrees with,” she said.

Vicky Kaushal

Meghna also discussed her working relationship with Vicky Kaushal, whom she directed in Raazi and Sam Bahadur. Describing their understanding, she said, “I don’t need to complete a sentence. He knows what I am going to say if I want him to do something differently. That connection is just superb.” She added that finding another role bigger than Sam Bahadur could be difficult. “After Sam Bahadur, it is going to be very difficult to find a role that is larger than that. And the desire to work with him is very much there,” she said.

Deepika Padukone

On Deepika Padukone, who worked with her in Chhapaak, Meghna said, “She is a deep actor. She’ll never stay on the surface. She will go beneath the surface of the character, of the scene, of the story.” She also joked about their similarities, saying, “She’s a bigger OCD than I am.”

Alia Bhatt

Discussing Alia Bhatt, Meghna described her as spontaneous and instinctive. “She is spontaneous and instinctive to a point where she can hurt herself,” she said, recalling the running sequence in Raazi. “The running scene in Raazi is where she would get hurt every day. That is the difficult part. She tends to hurt herself,” she added.

Tabu and Sushmita Sen

Meghna also recalled working with Tabu and Sushmita Sen in Filhaal. While she found Tabu’s performance easy to work with, she admitted that directing an already established actor was not simple. “She is already an accomplished, senior actor. To be telling her what to do and how to do it was not easy,” she said.

Speaking about Sushmita, Meghna said, “What you see is what you get. Very, very not layered at all. The relationship was very easy.” Asked about the difficult part, she simply said, “There was nothing difficult with her.”

Kareena Kapoor Khan and Prithviraj

On her current collaborators Kareena and Prithviraj in Daayra, Meghna said both actors required very little instruction. “The easy part has been their proficiency as actors. I don’t have to talk about that. There was very little instruction required,” she said. She further noted that their interpretations had gone beyond what she had originally envisioned. “The interpretation they have given for their characters has elevated them more than I had imagined on paper, or between the lines. That’s the very gratifying part,” she said.

However, Meghna admitted that the trust placed in her by the two actors also comes with responsibility. “The immense trust they put in me is very scary. That makes it difficult,” she said.

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The casting of Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama in Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana has been a topic of discussion since the release of the film’s first teaser. While some viewers have questioned whether the actor fits the role, others have responded positively to his appearance as the revered mythological character. Amid the ongoing debate, Ravie Dubey, who plays Lakshman in the film, has spoken in support of his co-star and shared his experience of working with him.\

In an interview with Variety India, Ravie Dubey praised Ranbir Kapoor’s approach to his work and described him as “simply the best”. Addressing the criticism around Ranbir’s casting as Lord Rama, Ravie said, “I think Ranbir is simply the best we have. He is a superstar of epic proportions, but what has stayed with me even more is the human being and the artiste I have witnessed at close range. The sincerity with which he comes onto a set is unparalleled. His work ethic, etiquette, intensity and preparation; I had heard so much about these things, but I had the privilege of witnessing them firsthand.”

Ravie further spoke about Ranbir’s personality away from his stardom and added, “And alongside all of that is this incredibly grounded, warm and inclusive nature. There is no weight of his stardom in the way he interacts with people. I find that enormously inspiring. It is my great good fortune to be a part of this journey alongside Ranbir, Namit (Malhotra), Nitesh (Tiwari), Yash, Sai Pallavi and every single person associated with Ramayana.”

Ranbir had earlier confirmed that he will be seen in the dual roles of Lord Rama and Lord Parshurama in Ramayana. Speaking about playing both characters in an interview with Collider, he said, “Lord Vishnu had different avatars. Lord Rama was an avatar, and Lord Parshurama was an avatar before Lord Rama. Just to get the opportunity, you know, how I got to play Lord Rama, to also play Lord Parshurama was fantastic.”

About Ramayana

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana is based on Valmiki’s ancient Sanskrit epic and follows the life and trials of Lord Rama, the Prince of Ayodhya. The film features Ranbir Kapoor, Ravie Dubey in his film debut as Lakshman, Sai Pallavi, Sunny Deol, Yash in his Hindi film debut, Anupam Kher, Kajal Aggarwal, Rakul Preet Singh, Vivek Oberoi, Kunal Kapoor, Adinath Kothare, Arun Govil, Indira Krishnan and Lara Dutta.

The two-part film is backed by Namit Malhotra and Yash under Prime Focus Studios, Monster Mind Creations and DNEG. Mounted on a reported budget of Rs 4,000 crores, Ramayana is slated to release in two parts, with the first instalment scheduled for Diwali 2026 and the second part arriving on Diwali 2027.

Also Read : BREAKING: 4-minute-15-second-long trailer of Ramayana passed by CBFC with a ‘U’ certificate

Rabya Khan, the mother of the late actress Jiah Khan, has issued her first public response after actor Sooraj Pancholi’s name appeared in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) First Information Report (FIR) regarding celebrity manager Disha Salian’s death. Expressing deep concern over the handling of the investigation, Rabya drew sharp parallels between the ongoing developments and her late daughter’s legal journey, questioning the potential loss or destruction of critical forensic material.

Taking to social media without naming specific individuals, Rabya voiced her apprehension regarding the resurgence of familiar names after several years. “When I hear that the same name has surfaced in another young Disha Salian murder six years ago, it deeply saddens me and this must alarm everyone,” she wrote. Concerns over evidence destruction and investigation handicaps Highlighting the pivotal role of forensic integrity, Rabya stressed that once vital evidence is compromised, establishing the facts becomes extremely difficult for both investigative agencies and affected families. She claimed personal insight into how evidence can be manipulated, stating she knows what happens when crucial material is “destroyed” or replaced in a way that can “fool victims”.

She also cited what she called “serious discrepancies” previously noted by the High Court regarding the initial probe into Disha Salian's death. Rabya argued that conducting a fresh inquiry years after an event poses severe challenges if foundational proof is no longer intact.

“No wonder they have specifically said no one is accused without evidence. But when crucial evidence has already been destroyed or lost, a fresh investigation will face an enormous handicap,” she noted.

Rabya further compared the framing of the investigation to her daughter's case. She observed that while Jiah's death was ruled as an "abetment to suicide", there were serious questions over whether the alleged act of "abetting" was thoroughly examined. She claimed a similar pattern is currently unfolding in Disha’s case.

Jiah Khan’s mother says, "System repeatedly fails to protect evidence" In her statement, Rabya expressed worry that a lack of concrete forensic proof could ultimately result in an incomplete judicial process or lead to acquittals. “High Court order will give these accused acquittal due to no evidence,” she warned, questioning why evidence capable of uncovering the truth is allegedly not preserved, leaving grieving families “searching for answers”.

She went on to question institutional protocols surrounding high-profile cases, writing, “Think why the system repeatedly fails to protect the evidence that could establish the truth.” Reiterating her demand for transparency and justice, she concluded, “The people are not foolish, it’s different perception created to hide truth when the system tries to protect them,” adding firmly that “Disha deserves the truth, just as Jiah did.” Background on Jiah Khan’s Case Jiah Khan, who made her Bollywood debut in Nishabd (2007) alongside Amitabh Bachchan and later featured in hit films like Ghajini and Housefull, was found dead at her Mumbai residence on June 3, 2013, at the age of 25. Her death was initially investigated as a suicide, and her then-boyfriend Sooraj Pancholi was charged with abetment to suicide. Following a long trial, a Special CBI Court acquitted Pancholi in April 2023, citing a lack of concrete evidence. Rabya Khan has consistently rejected the suicide ruling, maintaining that her daughter was murdered.

Also Read: Sooraj Pancholi DENIES link to Disha Salian death case after CBI FIR names him alongside Aaditya Thackeray, Rhea Chakraborty: “Very unfair and extremely upsetting”