Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney recently visited the Mumbai office of Dharma Productions, where he met filmmaker-producer Karan Johar and the banner’s CEO, Apoorva Mehta, to discuss potential collaborations between Scotland and the Indian film industry. The meeting focused on exploring long-term opportunities for Indian productions to shoot in Scotland and strengthening the cinematic ties between the two regions.

Accompanied by delegates from Screen Scotland, Swinney highlighted Scotland’s filming infrastructure, skilled technical crews and financial incentives aimed at attracting international productions. The discussions also explored the country’s potential as a filming destination for upcoming Indian films and streaming projects.

The meeting held particular significance for Karan Johar, given his long-standing association with Scotland through his directorial debut, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998). The film’s iconic title track featured picturesque Scottish locations, including Eilean Donan Castle, Blackrock Cottage and Tantallon Castle, which became part of the film’s visual identity.

Sharing photographs from the meeting on social media, Karan expressed his happiness at hosting the Scottish First Minister at Dharma Productions and recalled his experience of shooting in the country. He wrote, “It was such an honour to have the First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney (@john_swinney_snp) visit our home, our office and our world at @dharmamovies! It took me back to shooting my first film Kuch Kuch Hota Hai where we shot some iconic sequences and scenes in the beautiful backdrop of Scotland. We spoke avidly about my memories and experience and conversed about how we could deepen the friendship between the two countries in the cinematic field. It was a pleasure and more, thank you for gracing us with your presence.”

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Beyond the Dharma Productions visit, the diplomatic tour included an industry roundtable organised in partnership with the Producers Guild of India. The meeting brought together senior Indian film producers, studio representatives and members of Scotland’s screen sector to discuss co-production opportunities, creative exchange programmes and logistical support for Indian productions filming overseas.

The initiative reflects efforts to strengthen international collaboration as Indian filmmakers increasingly explore overseas locations for theatrical releases and streaming projects. With Scotland looking to attract more international productions, the discussions could open up further opportunities for Indian filmmakers to explore its landscapes and production facilities for future projects.

Also Read: Koffee With Karan 9: Janhvi Kapoor says she lost 6 kg after fallout with Karan Johar, Varun Dhawan recalls calling him a ‘child’; says, “You became Amitabh Bachchan from Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham”

Ranbir Kapoor recently revisited one of the most memorable moments of his personal life, recalling how he proposed to Alia Bhatt during their trip to Kenya in 2022. Appearing on Sony Entertainment Television’s Kaun Banega Crorepati as a part of the promotions of his upcoming film Ramayana Part 1, the actor shared a humorous account of how his carefully planned romantic gesture in the wilderness of Maasai Mara turned into an extraordinary experience, with three lions just about 100 feet away.

Recounting how he had arranged the proposal, Ranbir revealed that he had already spoken to his guide and driver to ensure that everything went according to plan. He had also brought a ring along and wanted photographs of the special moment.

Ranbir shared, “Maine pehle se hi apna jo guide hai, jo driver hai, maine unko ek tip de di thi ki aap kahin jaake rok dena beech jungle mein... main main ek angoothi laya tha ki main apne ghutno mein jaunga aur aap door se photograph khichna kyunki ladkiyon ko photographs ka bahut shauk hai.. Instagram pe dalne ka, toh maine socha ki yeh bahut zaroori tha Alia ke liye..” (I had already tipped my guide and driver and asked them to stop somewhere in the middle of the jungle. I had brought a ring and planned to get down on one knee, while asking them to take a photograph from a distance, because girls love posting photographs on Instagram. I thought it was very important for Alia)

His account prompted an amusing response from Amitabh Bachchan, who pointed out the importance of documenting such a special occasion. The megastar quipped, “Par sir ek... proof hona chahiye..” (There had to be proof, sir)

Agreeing with the observation, Ranbir went on to describe the rather intimidating surroundings in which he popped the question. While he had imagined a romantic moment on one knee, the presence of the big cats added an unexpected dimension to the experience.

He recalled, “Proof hona chahiye... Nahi angooti toh thi, main ghar se laya tha, par sir mahaul aisa tha ki... teen babbar sher is taraf the, kuch 100 feet ki doori par, meri sherni mere aage khadi thi, aur main chuha bankar apne ghutno mein khada tha ki baby will you marry me? So I think that was a very, very... ek jaise ek adbhut experience raha tha meri zindagi ka, I'll always remember..” (I had brought the ring from home, but the atmosphere was such that there were three lions about 100 feet away on one side, and my lioness was standing in front of me. I was like a mouse, down on my knees, asking, ‘Baby, will you marry me?’ It was an extraordinary experience of my life, and I will always remember it)."

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Ranbir’s candid storytelling had the audience laughing, with his comparison of Alia to a lioness and himself to a mouse adding a humorous twist to the romantic anecdote.

The couple’s engagement moment in Maasai Mara was followed by their wedding in April 2022. The actors, who have since welcomed their daughter, Raha, continue to be among Bollywood’s most closely followed celebrity couples.

The special appearance will be part of Kaun Banega Crorepati Diwali Special, which is scheduled to air on October 29 and 30 at 9 PM on Sony Entertainment Television.

Also Read: Ranbir Kapoor reveals the secret to a lasting relationship as he opens up about his marriage with Alia Bhatt

As anticipation builds for Ramayana: Part 1, director Nitesh Tiwari has clarified how artificial intelligence (AI) is being used in the ambitious mythological epic. While interacting with international media in Los Angeles, the filmmaker explained that the technology is being employed specifically to synchronise characters’ lip movements with dubbed dialogue, allowing audiences across the world to experience the film in their native languages.

Addressing the use of AI in the film, Nitesh Tiwari said, “As far as AI is being concerned, it is only being used to get the lip sync. So that we can present the film to the world in their language. So all the voices are dubbed by the artists. There is no AI out there. AI is only being used to get the lip movement right so that audience can enjoy it in their native language.”

A video of the filmmaker explaining the process has generated considerable buzz on social media, bringing attention to the role of technology in the film’s international presentation. His clarification distinguishes the use of AI for lip synchronisation from voice generation, with the dubbed performances being provided by artists.

The comments came during the film’s high-profile promotional event and international premiere in Los Angeles on October 27, 2026. Ahead of its worldwide release, the makers brought together key members of the team that is Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi along with producers Namit Malhotra and Yash, alongside cast members, to present exclusive footage and discuss the film’s scale and visual ambition with international media. The event, designed around a traditional Indian aesthetic, marked an important step in the project’s global promotional campaign.

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana: Part 1 adapts the ancient epic attributed to Sage Valmiki. The film stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana, with Sunny Deol playing Hanuman and Ravi Dubey portraying Laxman. The ensemble also includes Arun Govil, Lara Dutta and Rakul Preet Singh.

Produced by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios in collaboration with Monster Mind Creations, the film features visual effects spearheaded by DNEG, music by A. R. Rahman and an original background score by Hans Zimmer. Ramayana: Part 1 is scheduled to release worldwide in cinemas on November 5, 2026, in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam.

Also Read: AR Rahman calls Ramayana his biggest film yet, says soundtrack took 3.5 years to develop; speaks on collaborating with Hans Zimmer

Janhvi Kapoor has opened up about the support she received from Shikhar Pahariya following the death of her mother, legendary actor Sridevi, in 2018. In the upcoming episode of Koffee with Karan 9, the actress reportedly recalled how Shikhar put his studies on hold to be available for her during a difficult period in her life. The episode, featuring Janhvi alongside her Bawaal and Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari co-star Varun Dhawan, is expected to offer a more personal glimpse into her life beyond the screen.

According to a report by The Times of India, Janhvi revealed that Shikhar was studying in London when Sridevi passed away. He reportedly took half a semester off and travelled to Mumbai, quietly ensuring that he was nearby in case she needed him. “I think he was studying in London and he took like half a semester off. He came to Mumbai, and he used to stay in town with his dad then, and I only found out much later that he moved to his friend's house in Juhu for a month. Not that I was seeing him every day, but later on I just found out that he was like, ‘No, in case she needs me, I just want to be around'," she said.

The revelation highlights the understated support Shikhar offered during a period of grief for Janhvi and her family. While the two have largely kept their relationship private, their public appearances together over the years have fuelled interest in their bond. Their association dates back to their school days, before Janhvi made her acting debut with Dhadak in 2018. Reports of their reconciliation surfaced several years later, and Shikhar has since been seen accompanying her at family occasions and public events.

Janhvi also spoke about the moment she learnt of her mother’s death and the way her younger sister, Khushi Kapoor, responded to her grief. Recalling the deeply personal memory, she shared, “When I got the call, I was in my room, and I could hear wailing from Khushi's room, and I think I barged into her room howling and crying. But what I do remember is, the minute she looked at me, she stopped crying. She just stopped crying. She sat next to me and started comforting me. And I have never seen her cry about it since."

Her recollection offers a glimpse into how the sisters leaned on each other following the loss of their mother. Janhvi’s account also underlines the importance of the people who stood by her during one of the most challenging chapters of her life.

The upcoming Koffee with Karan 9 episode will premiere on JioHotstar on Wednesday, October 28 at 7 PM.

Also Read: Koffee With Karan 9: Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor spill secrets as Arjun Kapoor adds a twist in new promo

Diwali celebrations appear to have begun early for Ayushmann Khurrana and Tahira Kashyap. The couple, known for hosting festive gatherings attended by members of the film industry, recently took to Instagram to share a portrait welcoming the season of lights. Their post also offered a glimpse of their festive style, with both opting for traditional ensembles featuring detailed embellishments.

Sharing the picture, Ayushmann and Tahira captioned it, “Diwali season is the best season for a reason. And the reason is love. End October and early November is full of butterflies.” The message reflected the celebratory mood as the couple posed together against a floral wallpaper backdrop, dressed in coordinated yet distinct festive looks. Not too long ago, the couple had hosted a Diwali bash at their residence which was attended by Sara Ali Khan, Karan Johar, Rakul Preet Singh and Jackky Bhagnani, among others.

For the occasion, Ayushmann opted for an all-black ethnic ensemble that combined traditional tailoring with subtle embellishment. The actor wore a bandhgala kurta featuring intricate dark sequin embroidery along the placket. Keeping the silhouette understated, he paired the outfit with relaxed, straight-leg black trousers and formal dress shoes. A sheer organza wrap added another layer to the look, with gold-toned tassel accents along the hem providing a contrast against the predominantly black palette.

Tahira, meanwhile, chose a champagne-gold lehenga set that leaned into the festive mood. Her sleeveless choli featured heavy embellishment, while the A-line skirt was detailed with mirror-work borders and delicate sequins across the fabric. She completed the ensemble with a matching sheer dupatta draped over her arm. Statement drop earrings and a cocktail ring served as accessories, while her softly styled, brushed-out waves complemented the outfit.

Together, their ensembles offered two different approaches to festive dressing. Ayushmann kept his look centred on dark tones, clean tailoring and restrained detailing, while Tahira embraced metallic hues, surface embellishment and traditional occasion wear elements. The portrait also fits into the couple’s familiar Diwali celebrations, with their social media post marking the arrival of the festive season.

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Ayushmann Khurrana’s Upcoming Projects

On the professional front, Ayushmann was recently seen in Udta Teer, directed by Aakash Kaushik. The comedy caper also stars Sara Ali Khan, Rahul Bose, Ram Kapoor and the late Mukul Dev. The film follows a Pakistani spy who loses his memory after a blast and mistakenly believes himself to be an officer in India’s Counter Terrorism Squad.

The actor is also preparing for Yeh Prem Mol Liya, directed by Sooraj Barjatya and produced by Rajshri Productions. The family drama features Sharvari alongside Ayushmann, with Anupam Kher, Seema Pahwa and Supriya Pathak in the ensemble cast. With music composed by Himesh Reshammiya, the film is scheduled for a theatrical release on November 27, 2026.

Also Read: Ayushmann Khurrana, Sara Ali Khan visit Attari-Wagah border to promote Udta Teer