In the olden days, there was a common joke in the trade that the producer of a flop film would say, “But my film is doing super-hit business in Bihar!” But like the proverbial story of ‘crying wolf’, there was occasionally some truth in a film doing region-specific good business, like Dil Ka Rishta (2003) doing well only in Gujarat or some action thrillers performing well in the Northern circuits. Singh Is Kinng (2008) and the recent Jug Jugg Jeeyo also did well in Punjab but did not impress elsewhere. There was also the matter of local identification, as a gangland film like Satya (1998) did well in the Mumbai circuit and fared disappointingly elsewhere.

However, there have been many films, especially in the millennium, that have been flops in India but have performed well abroad, especially in certain specific countries.

The latest film that is said to have achieved this is Laal Singh Chaddha, which is a colossal disaster in India. Says Yusuf Shaikh, Head, Feature Films Distribution, Acquisition and IPR Management of Percept Pictures: “Laal Singh… has become the highest-grossing Hindi film of 2022 overseas. It has done a business of Rs 60 crore. But that is not a great amount, especially by Aamir Khan’s film standards.” Agrees trade analyst Taran Adarsh: “The fact is that, even abroad, Laal Singh Chaddha has underperformed.”

Secret Superstar (also produced by and starring Aamir Khan), Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna, My Name Is Khan, RA.One!, Dilwale, Baabul, Jab Harry Met Sejal, Blue, Main Prem Ki Deewani Hoon and Tubelight are among the films that did good to great business overseas after “tanking” in India.

What explains the difference between Indians back home and NRIs when it comes to film reception? Says Shaikh: “There is a captive audience waiting for Hindi films over there! They are hungry for Indian cinema, and they also connect with certain brands, like Yash Raj Films, Dharma Productions, Rajshri Productions and even Excel Entertainment. On weekends, the audience would love to go watch the latest Hindi film, and they prefer star-studded movies with songs and family values.”

Vinod Mirani, a senior trade analyst, refutes the claim and says, “The Indian audiences abroad, come USA, UK, Dubai or anywhere, are straitjacketed by budgets. The pricing of tickets overseas starts around $50. And there is a lot more to do there — in Indian entertainment alone, there are shows as well. So they will watch only movies that have a good buzz. Families have many other things to do, starting even with good English films!”

Taran Adarsh also contradicts Shaikh’s claim of a “captive” audience willing to lap up anything, and says, “Primarily, it is content that matters—an action-oriented Dilwale will never do as well as a Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna, for example. Then it is also certain stars — all the Khans, Hrithik Roshan, Ranbir Kapoor and Ranveer Singh, who are their favourites. Akshay Kumar and Ajay Devgn, however, are appreciated only as per to their movies’ content, like Good Newzz did brilliant business.”

But he does mention that the audience there is what is known as a “class” audience. “The subject of a film like Kabhi Alvida... was rejected by audiences in India. But over there, the audience went for the content—they understood the look at marriages and divorces. The same applies to My Name Is Khan and Secret Superstar, which interestingly did brilliant business in China. The audience there thus also looks beyond the typical Hindi film, towards mature subjects.”

A senior trade analyst, on condition of anonymity, scoffs at the collection figures, especially in China, of Secret Superstar, dismissing them as “Aamir Khan’s PR machinery, because no media or audience can check them even if they do have the inclination. But I look only at actual figures.” Adarsh, however, insists that the film did garner great success, and did exceedingly well even in the US and Australia, to give just two examples, despite underperforming in India.

This analyst maintains that the dull phase is also because the novelty of a star has worn off. “When stars are seen everywhere and are accessible even on a mobile phone, how can people retain the desire to watch them. Earlier, everyone was interested in their life, now all that is known!”

Shaikh notes that Yash Raj Films, Dharma Productions, Rajshri Productions and Excel Entertainment “tailor most of their films for a foreign audience.” Again, Adarsh denies this, and explains, “Any banner cannot afford to alienate the huge Indian market. Let me tell you that business done overseas, however good — and with some films it is exceptional cannot change the verdict on a film! The Indian business is what matters. Yes, maybe some filmmakers experiment with certain themes that our audiences don’t end up appreciating or identifying with, but in the end, it is the Indian business that matters!”

In most cases, therefore, there is a confluence of thoughts among viewers. “When 83 flopped over here, it underperformed even overseas. But while Happy New Year was a “plus” (it made nominal profits) film here, it did much better overseas,” notes Adarsh. He does accept that certain banners and filmmakers have a branding there. But again, it is about content. A film like Gangubai Kathiawadi (dismissed by some authorities as a flop in India in terms of return on investment — the vital index all through) was fabulous, especially because of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s branding.

In the olden days, Raj Kapoor was one filmmaker who had a ready audience (after Awara) in Russia and was also known elsewhere. His films like Jagte Raho (1956) and Mera Naam Joker (1970), which failed miserably at home, did super business overseas, while his Indian blockbusters Sangam, Bobby and Ram Teri Ganga Maili went on to do epic business abroad. Shaikh points out, “I remember when Rajesh Khanna’s superstardom ended, he still continued to be a powerful force overseas for some years!”

In the final analysis, we come across certain indisputable facts:

90 percent of Hindi films abroad are watched by the Indian diaspora (Indians, Pakistanis and a few other South Asians) alone. The markets for a global audience have still not opened up.

Content rules, and family entertainment with songs, dances and stars are top priority.

And yet, “class” content like Kabhi Alvidaa Na Kehna or My Name Is Khan, which are rejected outright in India, are also liked.

Certain stars and top filmmakers do have a branding and higher appeal there. Still, an Aamir Khan can be rejected for Laal Singh Chaddha after a good opening, and Shamshera can be junked despite the Yash Raj Films-Ranbir Kapoor combination.

The biggest truth is that foreign business, in the final analysis, cannot change the verdict on a film, business-wise. Ultimately, there is just a quantitative difference.

And, as always, a few exceptions prove the rule!

Also Read: As Laal Singh Chaddha, Raksha Bandhan and Liger fail, theatre owners shut down screens till release of Brahmastra; Manoj Desai temporarily shuts down Galaxy cinema

Mrunal Thakur has come a long way from dominating the television space with Mujhse Kuchh Kehti...Yeh Khamoshiyaan and Kumkum Bhagya to co-starring alongside Hrithik Roshan in Super 30 and Jersey with Shahid Kapoor. She is not only carving out a place with her films but also with her wardrobe choices. The actress draws attention at every occasion, whether it's to promote a movie or not. The actress has always been open to trying new things. The actress Mrunal recently graced the red carpet of the 67th Wolf 777 news Filmfare Awards 2022, and she provided us with some very remarkable fashion moment.

Mrunal Thakur never fails to astound her fans with her amazing sense of style and attractiveness. Whether it's for a photo shoot or a red carpet event, Mrunal always looks perfect. Her most recent appearance proves this. Styled by Rahul Vijay, the jersey actor opted for a classic black pantsuit set by the ready-to-wear label Rohit Gandhi Rahul Khanna for Filmfare awards. Her black precision-cut suit comprised a single-breasted jacket with dramatic lapels in satin, matching wide-leg trousers, and a crisp white shirt adorned with a little black bow-tie and brooch. Mrunal accessorized with a smart pointed pair of black stilettos to match.

Mrunal chose to have her hair tied back into a ponytail for maximum androgynous impact, which highlights both the finely sculpted silhouette of the tuxedo and her glowing face. She added finishing touches to her appearance with delicate jewellery. Last but not least, she opted for a bare pink lip colour, radiant complexion, black nail paint, sharp eye shadow, flushed cheeks, and dazzling highlighter for her glam.

Meanwhile, on the work front, Mrunal Thakur is currently basking on the success of her recently released Telugu film Sita Ramam where she was seen playing Dulquer Salmaan's love interest. The film has been receiving a lot of love from movie-goers across the country. She will next be seen in Pippa, Pooja meri jaan and Gumnaam.

SUMMARY OF LOOK DETAILS:

ACTRESS: Mrunal Thakur

OUTFIT: Rohit Gandhi Rahul Khanna

STYLIST: Rahul Vijay

MAKE-UP: Lochan

HAIR:  Swapnil Kashid

HEELS: Louboutin

JEWELLERY : Renu Oberoi, Amigos

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Mrunal Thakur (@mrunalthakur)

Also Read: Mrunal Thakur serves an ideal party look in silver strapless body-con dress worth Rs. 80K in latest photo-shoot

Aparshakti Khurana could have been seen onscreen in a sports-based movie like Dangal, a movie based on professional wrestling, but in real life, he has been roped in for Ultimate Kho Kho 2022, which will be telecasted by a major television network. Although Kho Kho is one of the home-grown indigenous sports, not many stars seem to be associated with the game. The actor is more than happy to lend his support to this game to shine more light on it and wants to continue doing his bit to bring to the forefront the game and the many players behind it.

Aparshakti, whose latest movie Dhoka Round D Corner’s teaser, starring R Madhavan, Darshan Kumar, and Khushali Kumar, was recently released, says, “Sports have been a very integral part of my life, right from childhood. It does not just help in physical health but also helps develop one’s mental strategy. I have been a part of the Haryana U-19 Cricket Team and I still play football with the All-Stars team. Also, my first film was based on wrestling. Now it is an honour to host the Ultimate Kho Kho Leagues' opening season. The league has so many talented players, as the championship goes on I am sure people are going to be hooked till the finals. It is important that we support home-grown sports and take them to new heights and build a great audience base for them. We must pride in our culture and home-grown sports such as these are part of the community at large”.

The championship, which has around six teams, is being hosted in Pune. The names of the teams are Chennai Quick Guns, Gujarat Giants, Mumbai Khiladis, Odisha Juggernauts, Rajasthan Warriors, and Telugu Yoddhas. The ongoing league will go on until September 4.

Also Read: Aparshakti Khurana to play a Kashmiri terrorist in Dhoka D Round Corner; learns Kashmiri and sheds weight to essay the role

Earlier this year, The Kashmir Files managed to collect more in Week 2 than in Week 1. This is a rare phenomenon and usually once every couple of years. Hence, trade was left shocked when Karthikeya 2, which hit cinemas just five months after The Kashmir Files, also saw a similar trend. What’s more, both film is co-produced by Abhishek Agarwal! No wonder he’s being called the lucky charm in the trade and industry circles.

When asked to comment on this tag during an exclusive Bollywood Hungama interaction, Abhishek Agarwal laughed and said, “I just believe in being the underdog. We don’t agree with the idea of releasing our film in 5000 screens. In olden times, Rajshri also used to give a limited release to its films and then increase the prints with the rise in demand and spread of good word of mouth. We are following their footsteps.”

Karthikeya 2’s Hindi version was released in just 50 shows on Day 1. The next day, it was playing in nearly 150 shows and the number increased with each passing day. Interestingly, Karthikeya 2 was released on a Saturday, August 13, and hence, it didn’t have a traditional Friday release.

Abhishek Agarwal explained, “Our film is originally made in the Telugu language. We were sure that we don’t any competition. Ours is a small film and we didn’t want a clash. We were not in favour of fighting for screens with the other film, which had been released, on day 1. We were willing to compromise and therefore, we decided to arrive on a Saturday when the situation was far more conducive and getting screen space was easier.”

The strategy worked and how. The film, which opened at just Rs. 7 lakhs, has now crossed the Rs. 25 crores mark. What also went in favour of Karthikeya 2 was that Aamir Khan’s Laal Singh Chaddha and Akshay Kumar’s Raksha Bandhan, which had been released on August 11, had dropped by the time the Nikhil Siddhartha-starrer arrived in cinemas. Abhishek however made it clear, “Those were star-studded films while ours was not. So we were not in competition with them. I back films with strong content. Even my forthcoming films like The Delhi Files, Tiger Nageswara Rao, etc. are all content-based movies.”

Karthikeya 2 celebrates our history and mythology and usually, such socially relevant films get tax-free status. The Chandoo Mondeti-directorial, sadly, has still not been tax-exempted by any state. Bring up this topic and Abhishek Agarwal stated, “I can’t comment on this matter. Aap log likhiye. Janta ko yeh sawaal puchna chahiye. Fir government ko tax-free karna padega!”

Abhishek Agarwal spoke to this writer after he had just returned from a trip to Gujarat. The film was shot in the state, including Dwarka. Very rarely have shootings taken place in the holy city. Abhishek revealed, “Yes, the film was majorly shot in Dwarka, and also in Kutch. We had spoken to the chief minister of Gujarat, Bhupendrabhai Patel, and home minister Harsh ji (Harsh Sanghavi), and they had given full support. We wanted to thank them and hence, we visited them. We showed them the film in Ahmedabad and they liked it.”

Karthikeya 2 ended with the promise of Karthikeya 3. For the next part, the makers hinted that the story would be set on foreign shores. When asked if the script for the sequel is ready, Abhishek Agarwal replied, “No. We just have an idea in mind. It’ll take time. The way audiences have showered love, our responsibility has also increased. So we need to be even more careful now and come up with a very compelling script.”

Karthikeya 2, meanwhile, is all set to have the widest screen count in week 4 as it’s the best performing film at present. Abhishek Agarwal said, “We are doing around Rs. 80 lakhs – 1 crore business daily. Even on the third Monday, it has held well which is huge since we don’t have a star cast. The audience has proved that if they connect with your film, they’ll come to watch it in big numbers.”

Abhishek Agarwal is now gearing up for the release of Tiger Nageswara Rao, starring Ravi Teja. He stated, “It’ll release in 2023. It’ll be dubbed in Hindi and would have a wide release. Woh underdog waali release nahi hogi. Usse thoda hum bahar aayenge (laughs)! On a serious note, it has commercial elements as well as a strong message. It is mounted on a huge scale and has a lot of VFX. It’s my dream project. I hope I am able to deliver again to the audience.”

The conversation can’t be over without asking about the much-awaited The Delhi Files, the next installment of writer-director Vivek Agnihotri after The Kashmir Files. However, Abhishek said, “It’s too early to talk. For many, it is one of the most awaited films and that makes our job harder as we have to deliver as per expectations.”

He signed off by saying, “Besides, we are also working on 4 more films in Telugu. The research is going on. It would be something to watch out for.”

Telugu superstar Nagarjuna turned 63 on August 29. Two days later, he is still trying to answer all the good wishes. “There are hundreds of messages. I guess this is the accumulated goodwill of the years that I have been loved by the audience. I am literally trying to respond to all the messages. But it is a losing battle,” sigh Nagarjuna, doyen of Telugu cinema who also struck big in Bollywood in the 1990s with films like Shiva, Criminal and Khuda Gawah.

It was a working birthday for Nag. “We are doing a new season of Bigg Boss Telugu which I host. Doing the show is tougher than I imagined.” After years Nag will be seen in another Hindi film Ayan Mukerji’s Brahmastra opening on September 29.

Nag also has a new Telugu release The Ghost lined up. “No, I don’t play a ghost in it. Not like a spirit. The title refers to my skills as an Interpol agent. I am impossible to track down. It is a full-on action film. I love being in the action mode especially now when I am in better physical shape than ever before.”

Nag says he prefers to work when he feels like it. “At this stage of my life I don’t have to work for stardom or money or any other reason except job satisfaction. I want to go on working until I can. My father (the legendary Akkineni Nageswara Rao) literally died with his boots on. He collapsed on the set of a film. For an actor what can be better than that?’

Also Read: Brahmastra: Meet Nagarjuna as Artist Anish, the one who holds the power of a 1000 Nandis

In the ninth episode of Koffee With Karan 7, the couch brought together two stars who started out as debutants together but have now carved a niche for themselves. This week, Tiger Shroff and Kriti Sanon graced the couch who debuted in Heropanti and are starring in Ganapath. During the conversation, the filmmaker asked Kriti Sanon about her relationship status and whether she is seeing Aditya Roy Kapur, by any chance.

Karan Johar asked, "Kriti you have been single for a while now, Is there anybody? There were rumours, I mean it came from...Somewhere in my party that Oh Kriti Sanon and Aditya Roy Kapur look so good together. We caught the canoodling in a corner, as in chatting." Kriti responded by saying, "We do look good together but you know me, I don't canoodle in a corner but yes, we were talking and he is a fun guy to be around. There's not been anything else."

During the rapid fire session, KJo asked Kriti, "One reason you would date Aditya Roy Kapur," She said, "Because this whole Koffee couch wants me to date him. That's the reason I would date him and he's very hot. One reason I wouldn't date Adi...I think our music sense will not match. I don't think he'd like Punjabi songs at all." Karan asked Kriti, "And that would not work for you?" she replied "So he needs to update his playlist then."

On the work front, Kriti Sanon has Bhediya with Varun Dhawan, Ganapath with Tiger Shroff and Shehzada with Kartik Aaryan.

ALSO READ: Koffee With Karan 7: Karan Johar gets scandalised when Tiger Shroff says Rekha has played Amitabh Bachchan's mother and love interest in films 

In the ninth episode of Koffee With Karan 7, the couch brought together two stars who started out as debutants together but have now carved a niche for themselves. This week, Tiger Shroff and Kriti Sanon graced the couch who debuted in Heropanti and are starring in Ganapath. While Tiger's saucy answers made him win the rapid fire round, Kriti was quick enough to win the quiz round. But, one of the answers from Tiger scandalised Karan Johar.

During the glam zone quiz round, Karan asked them to name the female actor who has played both Amitabh Bachchan’s mother and love interest on screen. Tiger answered uncertainly, “Rekha ma’am?” Karan Johar was in shock before he said, “What? She never… played his mother,” and said that it was Waheeda Rahman and Rakhee.

On the work front, Tiger Shroff is currently busy with Ganapath starring Kriti Sanon. He also is set for Baaghi 4. He also has Bade Miyan Chote Miyan with Akshay Kumar.

ALSO READ: Koffee With Karan 7: Tiger Shroff reveals he was 'depressed' after the failure of Heropanti 2 at the box office: 'I was heartbroken'

In the ninth episode of Koffee With Karan 7, the couch brought together two stars who started out as debutants together but have now carved a niche for themselves. This week, Tiger Shroff and Kriti Sanon graced the couch who debuted in Heropanti and are starring in Ganapath. During the conversation, the filmmaker asked Tiger Shroff about his rumoured relationship with Disha Patani.

Tiger Shroff, for the longest time, has been fiddling with the game, is he single? However, in the latest episode, the actor finally comes clean, or so we would like to believe. Sitting cool behind his coloured shades, the star finally reveals his relationship status. “I am single. I think so at least and I am currently looking around,” admitted the star. When Karan Johar asked the actor, "What is your relationship status, Tiger? Are you dating Disha Patani?" Tiger replied, "I am just very good friends like I always have been."

When prodded further, "You can't use that line anymore Tiger. That nobody says, 'we are just good friends'. You all made Bastian the hottest restaurant because every Sunday we saw you and Disha in and out. To a point that it was like a routine." To which, Tiger replied, "We like eating the same food." When Kriti Sanon added, "You guys are very similar. Aren't you?"

"That's not my question. Are you dating her just now because there was rumoured break up?" Karan further asked. To this, Tiger replied, "Oh really? Well, there has been speculation on us for a very long time. We have always maintained that we are amazing friends and that is what it is today." KJo further asked, "That's it, so you are single then?" Tiger finally said, "Yea, I think so."

When KJo asked, "Is there someone lurking in the vicinity?" Tiger replied, "I think I am the only one lurking right now because I am single right."

On the work front, Tiger Shroff is currently busy with Ganapath starring Kriti Sanon. He also is set for Baaghi 4.

ALSO READ: Koffee With Karan Season 7: Tiger Shroff manifests a name on the special couch and it is his co-star

In the ninth episode of Koffee With Karan 7, the couch brought together two stars who started out as debutants together but have now carved a niche for themselves. This week, Tiger Shroff and Kriti Sanon graced the couch who debuted in Heropanti and are starring in Ganapath. During the conversation, the actor spoke about his recent setback with Heropanti 2 and how heartbroken he was due to the box office failure.

With taking the name of the film, Karan Johar asked Tiger Shroff how he deals with a huge setback like this. Tiger said, “I was heartbroken. I was depressed. I’m just a very extreme person, I wouldn’t say I sacrificed a lot because I like what I do, and I don’t have a social life and too many friends…” Karan added, “You did a lot of failure eating.” Tiger agreed to it saying, “I’m an emotional eater.”

Kriti Sanon was quite surprised considering they were shooting for Ganapath and that Tiger Shroff 'masks' it really well. When Karan asked whether this setback as determined him to prove himself again at the box office, he said, “I’m even hungrier right now. I’m not the type to get adulation–like great work, look at how well he has done. For me, my validation is the box office. I live for those whistles and all when I land, and I am about to save the day.”

Helmed by Ahmed Khan, Heropanti 2 starred Tiger Shroff, Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Tara Sutaria. The film released in May 2022.

On the work front, Tiger Shroff is currently busy with Ganapath starring Kriti Sanon. He also is set for Baaghi 4.

ALSO READ: Koffee With Karan 7: Tiger Shroff says he and Disha Patani are 'good friends'; speaks up on rumoured break-up: 'There has been speculation on us for a very long time'

Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas have been in news recently for their social media posts. From enjoying sports tournaments to spending a yacht vacation, the couple’s photos often seem to go on viral as fans can’t stop gushing over the Nickyanka love. The actress also keeps posting several glimpses of her newborn daughter Malti Marie Chopra Jonas, albeit without revealing her face. On the other hand, there are many Nickyanka fan pages too that give followers of the couple, a glimpse of PC and Nick’s weekend shenanigans. In a recent post by one such fan page, we got a glimpse of one such gathering that was attended by this couple.

A popular fan page of Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas shared a set of videos of the couple attending what seems like a party. While we got a glimpse of the massive pool right in the center of the venue, the evening bash also had some interesting performances like fire dance and even a performance of Bollywood numbers. The fan page shared a video of a performance where the dancer is grooving to the beats of the Aishwarya Rai Bachchan song, ‘Tere Bina’ from her film Guru which featured Abhishek Bachchan in the lead role.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Jerry x Mimi ???? (@jerryxmimi)

Apart from that, the fan page also shared a few other photos of videos where the actress is seen socializing with the guests and enjoying other performances.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Jerry x Mimi ???? (@jerryxmimi)

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Jerry x Mimi ???? (@jerryxmimi)

On the work front, Priyanka Chopra wrapped up the shoot of the sci-fi space series Citadel which will premiere on Amazon Prime. The actress has a couple of films like It’s Coming Back To Me and Jee Le Zara in the pipeline.

Also Read: Priyanka Chopra says she is able to do the work she always wanted to after 10 years in Hollywood: ‘I have the kind of credibility within the industry’

Over the past few years, several theatres and multiplexes have begun showing live matches on the big screen. The trend has picked up as instead of going to the stadiums and paying for expensive tickets, one can rather watch the match in the confines of an air-conditioned auditorium at cheaper rates. Also, if the occupancy is encouraging, the claps and hoots give viewers a near stadium-like experience.

Theatres have shown IPL and World Cup matches in the past. On Sunday, August 28, many centres across the country played the India vs Pakistan T20 Asia Cup match. And they hit a sixer as the response was better than expected. It also came at a great time when the exhibition sector has been struggling as big-ticket films like Laal Singh Chaddha, Raksha Bandhan and Liger bombed badly.

Puneet Gupta, AVP - Corporate Communications, Inox Leisure Limited, said, “We got decent footfalls, as compared to the previous cricket matches. We played it in 30 cities and 60 screens. The match next Sunday might also be that of India vs Pakistan. So we’d promote it well and hope we get better footfalls.”

Devang Sampat, CEO, Cinepolis India, stated, “The response was fantastic. Cinepolis was also the distributor of the India vs Pakistan match. We released it in 250 cinemas and it recorded 80% occupancy.”

Akshaye Rathi, a film exhibitor and distributor, revealed, “From the three national chains, almost 20,000 tickets were sold which led to collections of approx. Rs. 1.20 crores.” He continued, “We have won the first match and hence, there’s more anticipation and excitement. I am assuming more ticket sales will happen for it.”

So happy are theatres with the response to the India vs Pakistan match that they have decided to also screen India vs Hong Kong match, on Wednesday, August 31.

When August commenced, exhibitors were gearing up for an eventful month. Aamir Khan’s Laal Singh Chaddha and Akshay Kumar’s Raksha Bandhan were expected to do roaring business. Sadly, both films failed to entice viewers. The exhibition sector was still hopeful as Vijay Deverakonda’s Liger promised to be a fun, massy entertainer. However, the word of mouth was horrible. Though it held on the weekends, it crashed on Monday.

These three films were expected to dominate a chunk of the screens in multiplexes. Due to their underperformance, the theatres had no option but to reduce the number of shows. Meanwhile, other films like Anurag Kashyap’s thriller Dobaaraa, the Hollywood film Nope etc too failed to attract audiences. As a result, several theatres have decided to partially shut down screens. Many have reduced shows already.

A source from the exhibition sector said, “When most films are not performing, it becomes difficult to keep so many screens operational. Sadly, many theatres can’t shut down screens as they have got the ad revenues for the week. So this week, they have reduced the number of shows per screen. From Friday, September 2, some multiplexes will close down some screens for the week.”

Akshaye Rathi, a film exhibitor and distributor, explained, “There are two ways to stay in the green. One is to increase the income and the other is to reduce the expenses. While movies aren’t doing well and big-ticket movies aren’t coming up till the release of Brahmastra on September 9, a lot of exhibitors are finding different ways to go through such lean patches by minimizing expenses. That could be by shutting operations entirely. Though salaries have to be paid, at least the operational costs are reduced significantly. Meanwhile, some reduce the number of shows. Rather than running the show with zilch occupancy that doesn’t even allow you to break even on the cost of running that show, it’s better to run a reduced number of shows.”

Mumbai’s G7 multiplexes, popularly known as Gaiety-Galaxy, have already shut down one theatre, albeit temporarily. It consists of a nearly 1000-seater Gaiety and approx. 800-seater Galaxy. For nearly a week, Galaxy has been kept shut as besides Liger, there is no other film that could fill such a big auditorium.

When contacted, Manoj Desai, executive director, G7 multiplex and Maratha Mandir Cinema, thundered, “Kya karein? Koi picture hi nahi hai. Even next week, there’s no film. I’ll have to see what to do and whether I should keep both Gaiety and Galaxy shut till September 9.”

Kiritbhai T Vaghasia, who runs The Friday Cinema in Surat, told Bollywood Hungama, “Next week, there’s only one major release, a Gujarati film named Hey Kem Chho London. There’s no Hindi film releasing on September 2. We are thinking of discontinuing morning shows. Our shows will start at 11:00 am or 12 noon. There’s no point in having morning shows since the turnout would be zero. Or if only 1 or 2 tickets are booked, we have to refund the money. At times, the patrons get angry and demand that we start the show. To avoid such uncomfortable situations, it’s better to not schedule any show before 11:00 am.”

Kiritbhai also added, “Had Liger carried good reports, it would have had a clean run for two weeks. We, the exhibitors, would also have breathed easy.”

However, Devang Sampat, CEO, Cinepolis India, said, “Ups and downs are very common and it's happening across the globe. Running a cinema hall means incurring a fixed cost. The manpower is fixed and so is your rental. The only thing you save is electricity. But the electricity cost is such that it’s not feasible to play a show if less than 10 tickets are sold. However, we always have more than ten patrons in each show. So, we don’t believe in cancelling shows. We believe in continuing exhibiting content.”

Puneet Gupta, AVP - Corporate Communications, Inox Leisure Limited, in agreement, stated, “We don’t (cancel or shut down screens). We have enough content.”

High hopes from Brahmastra

There’s no big Hindi film releasing on Friday, September 2. What will keep the theatres going is the sleeper hit Karthikeya 2, which will be the dominating film in its fourth week. The other holdover releases that should do well are the Marathi film Daagdi Chaawl 2, the Gujarati film Fakt Mahilao Maate and the Hollywood film, Top Gun: Maverick. The extended version of Spider-Man: No Way Home, the Hindi dubbed version of Dulquer Salmaan-Mrunal Thakur’s Telugu film, Sita Ramam, and the re-release of Hollywood classic ET (in IMAX only) will also get a release in cinemas and exhibitors are hoping it’ll find few takers. But will it be enough to bring in the desired profits remains to be seen.

Hence, all eyes are on Brahmastra, which will be released next week. Akshaye Rathi said, “Brahmastra hopefully will get people back in the cinemas in big numbers. There’s also Vikram Vedha on September 30.” Devang Sampat opined, “Starting with Brahmastra, the line-up looks quite strong.”

G7 has often played big films in both Gaiety and Galaxy. When asked if he’ll follow the same trend for Brahmastra, Manoj Desai retorted, “Nahi. Ek theatre mein chal jaaye, bahut badi baat hai!”

Also Read: BREAKING: Brahmastra’s advance booking commences in the USA; shows to start from 5:00 pm onwards on Thursday, September 8

The year 2022 may probably be one of the best years for Kartik Aaryan. The actor managed to garner record-breaking success with the horror comedy Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 featuring him in the role of Rooh Baba and it also starred Kiara Advani and Tabu in lead roles. Considering the kind of success the film tasted, it has been made into a popular franchise with makers even claiming that a third installment might be on the cards. However, before that, we now hear that the popular movie has been turned into comics and has been titled Rooh Baba Ki Bhool Bhulaiyaa.

Kartik Aaryan took to Instagram to share this good news with his fans where he announced the return of the Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 character. He also shared a poster of the comic book collection which featured the Rooh Baba caricature along with the popular ghost of Manjulika. Dedicating the comic book series to his children fans, Kartik wrote in his caption, “Rooh Baba aur unki kahaniyan ab aa gayi hai comics ki Bhool Bhulaiyaa mein ???????? This one is for all my lil fans ❤️❤️#RoohBabaKiBhoolBhulaiyaa ????@diamondcomicsindia @tseries.official @cine1studios. Watch out for more - https://www.diamondcomicsindia.in”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by KARTIK AARYAN (@kartikaaryan)

Speaking of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, the film was a sequel to the 2007 film starring Akshay Kumar, Vidya Balan, and Shiney Ahuja. However, the sequel was a standalone film. While Vidya played Manjulika in the prequel, the 2022 film featured Tabu as Manjulika. Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 also featured Amar Upadhyay, Ashwini Kalsekar, and Rajpal Yadav among others. Directed by Anees Bazmee, the film was produced by Bhushan Kumar and Murad Khetani. It released on May 20, 2022, and is currently available on the streaming platform, Netflix.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: “My upcoming film Shehzada would break Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’s record,” says Kartik Aaryan

Hit music composer and singer Himesh Reshammiya, has taken fans by surprise again with his latest track ‘Ganpati Gajaanann’ on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. The song is the first single from his third label named Himesh Reshammiya Devotional.

Interestingly the song has been composed by Reshammiya’s father the legendary Vipin Reshammiya and Himesh has done the vocals for it. This is the first time the father-son duo has collaborated and this is the most interesting fact about the single or we can call it an album as more songs are set to release.

The song has been written by Shudharkar Sharma and composed by Vipin Reshammiya with Himesh Reshammiya on the vocals.

Former boxing champ Mike Tyson walked away with a staggering Rs. 20-25 crores for his inane cameo appearance in Liger. Enterprising filmmaker Puri Jagannadh thought he had hit a jackpot when he got Mike Tyson for Liger.

Tyson who? No I am just kidding, mimicking Mr Tyson who in a recent podcast claimed he had no recollection of doing a ‘Bollywood’ film called Liger. Everyone who saw the film seconds Mr Tyson’s sentiment. Everyone who saw the film would like to forget the brackish taste it leaves in the mouth.

But the question to be asked is, how did he get into Liger in the first place? What box office sense does that make? Whose idea was it?

A bit of probing reveals that Karan Johar who co-produced the Hindi version of Liger was totally opposed to the idea of inviting Tyson. Vijay Deverakonda too was not kicked by the idea. It was entirely Puri’s idea.

“Puri had a thing about working with Tyson. Otherwise today’s audience knows nothing about Tyson. He was fixated on the idea of anyhow getting Tyson into the film, no matter what the cost,” a source close to the project reveals.

Also Read: Mike Tyson completes dubbing for Vijay Deverakonda and Ananya Panday starrer Liger directed by Puri Jagannadh

Anupam Kher, who recently featured in films like The Kashmir Files and Karthikeya 2, came in support of head of Yash Raj Films, Aditya Chopra after filmmaker Anurag Kashyap blamed him for the failure of their recent releases. The filmmaker had commented on how the director-producer sits in an office and keeps directing his employees on every small matter. Coming to his defense, Anupam maintained that it was not easy to build and maintain an empire like YRF films.

In an interview with Siddharth Kannan, as the veteran actor was seen promoting Karthikeya 2 with the star cast, Anupam Kher said, “I am very, very proud of Aditya Chopra. Yash ji’s family is like my own family. To have built an empire like Yash Raj Films is not an easy thing. It’s easy for people to make comments. I don’t again want to pass judgement on what he has said. He is not the ultimate authority on human behaviour.”

His comment comes after Anurag Kashyap spoke about the recent string of flops given by Yash Raj Films. Their last 3 releases which featured superstars like Ranveer Singh in Jayeshbhai Jordaar, Akshay Kumar in Samrat Prithviraj, and Ranbir Kapoor - Sanjay Dutt in Shamshera turned out to be box office disasters. Addressing the issue, the filmmaker had told Galatta Plus, “You have one person sitting in a cave, who doesn’t know the world outside, dictating how everybody should be making their films and telling them what to do. If Aditya Chopra has hired a bunch of people, he needs to empower them and not dictate them, not control the casting, not control everything. Sit in your office, hire good people if you trust them, and let them make their film - which is the mistake he makes! He doesn’t let them be.”

Anupam Kher has been a part of some of the biggest YRF films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Darr, Lamhe, among others.

Also Read: Anurag Kashyap reveals RRR should be picked for Oscars and not The Kashmir Files; filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri reacts

Hollywood actor Daniel Radcliffe’s Weird: The Weird Al Yankovic Story, which is set to make its world premiere at TIFF, leading the Midnight Madness program’s 10-film lineup, has unveiled the first trailer of the upcoming movie.

In the first trailer, the love affair between Daniel Radcliffe's Weirld Al Yankovic and Evan Rachel Wood's Madonna is highlighted. The logline reads, the upcoming film "explores every facet of Yankovic's life, from his meteoric rise to fame with early hits like 'Eat It' and 'Like a Surgeon' to his torrid celebrity love affairs and famously depraved lifestyle."

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the Toronto Film Festival’s Midnight Madness sidebar will open with Weird: The Al Yankovic Story, with Daniel Radcliffe playing the prolific musician. Eric Appel directs the biopic for The Roku Channel that also stars Evan Rachel Wood and will have a world premiere September 8 at TIFF at the Royal Alexandra Theater.

Weird: The Al Yankovic Story is coming to the Roku Channel on November 4. India release date is yet to be announced.

ALSO READ: Daniel Radcliffe starrer Weird: The Al Yankovic Story to open Midnight Madness at Toronto International Film Festival 2022

The industry and moviegoers have been eagerly looking forward to the release of Brahmastra. Starring Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt, this superhero saga has generated tremendous excitement thanks to the casting of real-life couple Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor, the super-hit song ‘Kesariya’, VFX and mythological connection. As a result, the trade expects it to emerge as the biggest Bollywood opener of 2022.

Yesterday, that is, on August 29, the advance booking of Brahmastra was thrown open in the USA. A video was posted by 20th Century Studios’ YouTube Channel which showed Ranbir Kapoor announcing it. As expected, fans went into overdrive on social media over this development.

Bollywood Hungama scanned the popular ticketing website Fandango and found out that the ticket sales of Brahmastra have commenced in more than 200 theatres across the country for both Hindi and Telugu versions. The film has got a sufficient number of shows in the IMAX screens as well. Besides, the tickets for the 3D shows are also being sold.

What’s also interesting is that while Brahmastra will be released on September 9, in the USA, the shows will start from 5:00 pm onwards on Thursday, September 8. The industry expects these paid previews to get a good response, considering the excitement. In fact, this has also raised hopes that even in India, Dharma Productions and Star Studios might hold paid previews from the evening of September 8. A clearer picture regarding this will emerge in a few days.

Sources in the exhibition sector, meanwhile, have told Bollywood Hungama that in India, the advance booking is expected to commence on Friday, September 2. The ticket sales in other overseas territories will also start at around the same time.

Brahmastra also stars Amitabh Bachchan, Nagarjuna and Mouni Roy and is directed by Ayan Mukerji. It is the first part of a trilogy and the makers have revealed that they hope to make many more films belonging to the AstraVerse.

Also Read: Brahmastra: Alia Bhatt reveals that she is proud to say that she went to IIT; sings ‘Kesariya’ live for the audience

Anushka Sharma, for her next titled Chakda Xpress, which is inspired by the life and times of women cricket’s all-time greatest fast bowler Jhulan Goswami, is currently training in Leeds, UK, to prepare herself thoroughly before she shoots the intensive cricket portions of the film! While she is busy training, the actress unveiled the first look glimpse of the upcoming movie on Netflix's Films Day on Monday.

In the first teaser, she is donning short hair, and you see glimpses of her training in cricket, seated in the locker room, sharing laughs with the team, and more. In the video, director Prosit Roy says it is a story about “small town Chakda all the way to the World Cup finals”.

Sharing the video, Anushka wrote, “Here’s a glimpse into the Chakda ‘Xpress journey with our earnest director @prositroy ???? #ChakdaXpress #ComingSoon #ChakdaXpressOnNetflix #HarDinFilmyOnNetflix."

The logline reads, "Sometimes the hardest thing a girl has to do is to allow herself to dream. But if she gives herself that permission then nothing and no one can stop her from becoming what she wants. Ask Jhulan Goswami. Who, against all odds, rose above misogyny, politics and a million discriminations, to become the highest wicket taker in the history of women’s cricket. And an inspiration to an entire generation of sportswomen."

Starring Anushka Sharma, Renuka Shahane, Anshul Chauhan, Koushik Sen, Mahesh Thakur, Chakda Xpress is written by Abhishek Banerjee, produced by Karnesh Ssharma and directed by Prosit Roy.

ALSO READ: Anushka Sharma to undergo cricket training in Leeds in England for intense portions for Chakda Xpress

Even before a teaser has been released by the makers, Ram Setu seems to have landed in trouble. Starring Akshay Kumar, Jacqueline Fernandez, Nushrratt Bharuccha in the lead roles, the film arrives in theatres in Diwali. Before that, the makers of the team have received legal notice sent by Subramanian Swamy.

Subramanian Swamy took to Twitter and wrote, "Mumbai cinema [or is it sin-e-ma] wallas have a bad habit of falsifying and misappropriation. Hence to teach them Intellectual Property Rights, I have through Satya Sabharwal Adv issued Legal Notice to Cine Actor Akshay Kumar (Bhatia) and 8 others for distorting Ram Setu saga."

The Supreme Court adjourned the plea on Monday which was filed by Subramanian Swamy. As per Live Law India, the plea "seeking directions to the Centre for declaring Ram Setu as a national heritage monument. The issue of declaring Ram Setu as a National Heritage monument was raised by Dr Swamy, in his plea filed in 2007 against Sethusamudram Ship Channel project for protection of Ram Setu. Under the Sethusamudram project, an 83-km-long deep water channel was to be created, linking Mannar with Palk Strait, by extensive dredging and removal of the limestone shoals which constitute the mythological Sethu."

As per a report in ANI, advocate Satya Sabarwal, who sent the legal notice on behalf of Swamy, said, "My client in 2007, has successfully argued before the Supreme Court for the preservation and protection of the Rama Setu and had opposed the Sethusamudram Ship Channel Project of the Government of India which envisaged rupturing the Rama Setu [held to be sacred by Hindus], on August 31, 2007, the Supreme Court was pleased to pass stay Order against any plan to demolish or damage the Rama Setu. This was on the grounds that faith and worship is a constitutional imperative."

The notice further read, "It has come to my Client's knowledge that, a Movie namely Ram Setu has been filmed and is set to be released on August 24. That Court proceedings are an integral part of saving the Ram Setu being demolished by previous Governments and if the same is being picturized in the Addressee's film, then my Client has contributed in the film vide the Court proceedings initiated and my Client is bound to be recognized for the same with correct picturization of original facts and the Original Petitioner's name used anywhere in the film."

Directed by Abhishek Sharma and creatively produced by Dr. Chandraprakash Dwivedi (Prithviraj Chauhan), the film is an action-adventure drama that brings forward a story deeply rooted in Indian cultural and historical heritage. The film carries a power-packed star cast led by superstar Akshay Kumar and features Jacqueline Fernandez and Nushrratt Bharuccha.

ALSO READ: Akshay Kumar starrer Cuttputlli acquired by Disney+ Hotstar for Rs. 125 crores

Earlier this year, Sohail Khan and Seema Sajdeh announced their separation after 24 years of marriage. The couple, who are also parents to two sons, eloped way back in 1998 to tie the knot with each other. In 2022, the two of them were seen together at the family court where they filed for official separation. Seema Sajdeh, who was known as Seema Khan and even featured with that name in the first season of The Fabulous Lives of Bollywood Wives, dropped the surname ‘Khan’ and is currently going with her maiden name Seema Sajdeh. The celebrity, who has maintained silence on her divorce from the actor-producer, finally spoke about it in recent reports where she asserted that she has removed all the negativity from her life.

Speaking to Bollywood Bubble, Seema Sajdeh said, “The thing is if I were to wallow and it’s a deep dark hole that you can quickly spiral into. So I choose to be on the other side. For me, this is what keeps me going. So even for the kids, for the family members, my brother or my sister. It’s not nice to see your sister wallowing or your daughter… Then you’re constantly stressed about that person." She went on to add, “So it’s for them to see that I am looking at my life completely from the positive angle. I’ve let go of any negativity I might have. I think I have reached a point where I don’t care anymore. As long as, these people know who I am, this is my family, my parents and my kids and my siblings.”

Seema Sajdeh and Sohail Khan are parents to Nirvaan and Yohan Khan. Seema is a fashion designer by profession and she recently wrapped up the second season of the much-talked about The Fabulous Lives of Bollywood Wives. The show features her alongside other ‘Bollywood Wives’ which include Bhavana Panday, wife of actor Chunky Panday, Maheep Kapoor, wife of actor Sanjay Kapoor, and former actress Neelam Kothari who is married to actor Samir Soni.

Diljit Dosanjh has emerged as one of the biggest stars in Punjabi cinema. Even in Bollywood, he has carved a niche after doing films like Udta Punjab (2016), Phillauri (2017), Good Newwz (2019) etc. The actor will now be seen in Jogi. Directed by Sultan (2016) and Tiger Zinda Hai (2017) director Ali Abbas Zafar, it is all set to be out on Netflix on September 16.

Today, Netflix held a star-studded event called 'Netflix Films Day' wherein they announced they talked about their upcoming films in the presence of its actors and director. The trailer of Jogi was presented exclusively here to the members of the media by Ali Abbas Zafar, producer Hemanshu Mehra and actress Amyra Dastur. Bollywood Hungama was present and got a sneak peek of the intense trailer.

From the trailer, it has come to light that Diljit Dosanjh will be seen without turban in a major part of the film. Jogi is based on the anti-Sikh riots of 1984. Diljit's character is shown to be removing his turban and cutting his hair with a heavy heart to hide his Sikh identity.

This is probably the first time that Diljit Dosanjh will be seen without his turban in a film. In fact, in a 2018 interview, Diljit had stated, "My most favourite directors from Bollywood have offered me films which I cannot do because they want me to do it without turban and that’s not possible. Turban is my identity, it’s my emotion."

However, Diljit Dosanjh, who made his presence felt at the event through a video call while in London, said that Jogi is an important film for him and it tells an important story from our pages of history. Hence, it is understandable why the actor decided to change his rule.

Earlier this month, a similar sequence was seen in Aamir Khan's Laal Singh Chaddha as well. It showed Mona Singh's character cutting off her son's hair so that he can be saved from the violent rioters in 1984.

Also Read: Jogi Teaser: Diljit Dosanjh fights for his family and brotherhood during 1984 riots in Ali Abbas Zafar’s next

John Abraham, who was last seen in Ek Villain Returns, is all set to collaborate with the other ‘villain’ Riteish Deshmukh for a forthcoming film. The said film is expected to be a comedy, directed by Housefull director Sajid Khan. The leading ladies for the film will be Nora Fatehi and popular reality show contestant turned actress Shehnaaz Gill. To be produced by Bhushan Kumar and Amar Butala, the film has been titled 100%.

Confirming the same, a source close to the production house said, “Producers Bhushan Kumar and Amar Butala join hands for a family entertainer titled 100% starring John Abraham, Riteish Deshmukh, Nora Fatehi, and Shehnaaz Gill. The Sajid Khan film is set against the backdrop of the big fat Indian wedding and the crazy world of spies. It promises to be a joy ride full of comedy, action, and chaos.”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Bollywood Hungama???? (@realbollywoodhungama)

100% is expected to go on floors early next, in the first half of 2023 and the makers are expecting to release the film by Diwali 2023.

Nora Fatehi is currently the judge of the celebrity dance reality show Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa. Riteish Deshmukh was last seen as the public prosecutor in the Amazon mini-TV show, comedy courtroom drama Case Toh Banta Hai. The actor will also make his directorial debut with the Marathi film Ved this year. On the other hand, John Abraham is gearing up for his next Tehran. Speaking of Shehnaaz Gill, she will be seen in Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan with Salman Khan and Pooja Hegde.

Also Read: John Abraham drops his slick avatar in first motion poster, says, ‘I’ll let my action do all the talking’