Actress Mouni Roy, who is gearing up for the release of her upcoming film Brahmastra, spoke about her experience of working with co-stars Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt in the film that has been in the making for seven years. Now after several years of wait, the film is all set to hit the big screen on September 9.

In an exclusive conversation with Bollywood Hungama, Mouni shared how “great” Ranbir and Alia are to work with. She said, “Oh my God, they are such amazing human beings. They are so disciplined. They're so passionate about what they do. I have seen them come on set on time, every single day. Be there, just be there on set, being a part of every single thing that's happening, they're so aware.”

"I remember I think Alia not only remembers her own lines, but the whole scene or what everybody else is saying or doing. There’s so much to learn from the two of them. One thing I tell everybody, whenever I get asked about Ranbir-Alia, is that they are fire. They are just fire on screen. They light up on screen.”

Talking about the qualities she noticed in both the fellow actors, who are now married, she said, “They’re very natural and they’re very spontaneous. I feel like they don't even need to prepare. I'm sure there's some amount of work or preparation going on in it. But they're so spontaneous when they're acting in front of you. It feels like it's happening to them for the first time. They’re saying the lines for the first time, no matter how many times they are saying or doing the scene.”

Speaking of Brahmāstra, the film is a fantasy adventure drama based on Indian mythological concepts. Created and directed by Ayan Mukerji, it is produced by Dharma Productions. It is also being said that the film will feature an extensive cameo by Deepika Padukone. It is the first film to feature real-life couple Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt together. The film will release on September 9 in Hindi, Telugu, and Tamil.

Also Read: Mouni Roy confirms Shah Rukh Khan features in Brahmastra; says, “I feel like it’s such a privilege”

Veteran Hollywood actress Jane Fonda on Friday announced she had been diagnosed with cancer, a "very treatable" form of lymphoma and started a six-month regimen of chemotherapy. The Oscar winning actress took to Instagram on Friday to reveal that she has non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, noting that she's begun chemotherapy.

“This is a very treatable cancer. 80% of people survive, so I feel very lucky," Fonda wrote. “I feel very lucky. I’m also lucky because I have health insurance and access to the best doctors and treatments. I realize, and it’s painful, that I am privileged in this.”

“Almost every family in America has had to deal with cancer at one time or another, and far too many don’t have access to the quality health care I am receiving, and this is not right.” Fonda continued by using her diagnosis to draw attention to links between fossil fuels and cancer, saying that her disease is “fossil fuel-based.” According to the nonpartisan Environmental and Energy Study Institute, “the use of fossil fuels — coal, oil and natural gas — results in significant climate, environmental and health costs.”

“I’m doing chemo for six months and am handling the treatments quite well and, believe me, I will not let any of this interfere with my climate activism,” added the environmentalist. “Cancer is a teacher and I’m paying attention to the lessons it holds for me. One thing it’s shown me already is the importance of community. Of growing and deepening one’s community so that we are not alone. And the cancer, along with my age — almost 85 — definitely teaches the importance of adapting to new realities.”

 

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As The Hollywood Reporter notes, Jane Fonda has faced a variety of health issues over her life. In an interview, the Grace and Frankie star said she has “had a lot of cancer,” adding that she often sees skin doctors for removal procedures. In 2018, she said she had one removed from her lip. In 2010, she also revealed that she had removed a non-invasive breast tumor and was said to be “cancer-free” shortly thereafter.

Also Read: Joaquin Phoenix, Martin Sheen arrested at Jane Fonda’s climate change protest

Karan Johar gave a rather electrifying speech at the Brahmastra Hyderabad event, held on September 2. He started by praising S S Rajamouli, who is presenting the superhero film in Hyderabad.

Karan Johar said, "We are eternally grateful to Rajamouli sir for just being who you are. You are a filmmaker with the largest heart. He has gone on a limb for us. He and his son Karth (S S Karthikeya) worked tirelessly for us. When you work so hard for somebody else's endeavour, it truly emphasizes Rajamouli's passion to further Indian cinema."

He then praised Jr NTR. The RRR actor has confessed that he is a fan of Ranbir Kapoor starrer Rockstar (2011). To which Karan Johar remarked, "You love Rockstar. And you are the eternal Rockstar."

Karan Johar then amazed everyone as he touched the feet of Nagarjuna Akkineni. He stated, "It takes a large heart to give so much time and passion to a film. He became the favourite person on the sets of Brahmastra. My father was a close friend of Nag sir and the legacy of love continues."

Nagarjuna Akkineni, in a lighter vein, "I am usually the favourite (on all the movie sets)"!

He spoke highly of Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt, the lead actors of Brahmastra, "I have seen them from the childhood. Their childhood, not mine!"

On a serious note, he said, "They are two of the most incredible talents in the country. And its incredible that both got attracted to each other! We wish that you have a beautiful child who'll be bigger than both of you put together!"

Also Read: SCOOP: Brahmastra official budget is over Rs. 400 crores – Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt film creates history

Veteran actor Brendan Gleeson has joined the ensemble of Joker sequel starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga in the much-awaited film Joker: Folie a Deux for Warner Bros. and DC Films.

As reported by Deadline, Zazie Beetz would also be returning to reprise her role as Sophie Dumond who was the neighbor of Arthur Fleck. Phillips is returning to direct and also co-wrote the script with Scott Silver, who penned the original film which was nominated for 11 Oscars including Best Picture and Phillips for Best Director.

The film, which is set to start shooting in December, is set for release on October 4, 2024. Joaquin Phoenix is already set to return as the profoundly troubled Arthur Fleck, aka the eponymous Joker. He'll be joined by his partner in crime to be essayed by Lady Gaga, reportedly as a version of Harley Quinn in the film which is rumored to be a musical.

On the work front, Brendon Gleeson currently features in Banshees of Inisherin from director Martin McDonagh. The film reunites Gleeson with Colin Farrell and Martin McDonagh, who worked together on the dark comedy, In Bruges.

Also Read: Lady Gaga to play Harley Quinn in Todd Phillips’ Joker 2 starring Joaquin Phoenix; film titled Joker: Folie à deux

Apart from keeping the audience on the edge of the seat on his quiz show, mega star Amitabh Bachchan often shares some lesser-known incidents of his life on the set of Kaun Banega Crorepati. Going down the memory lane with a KBC contestant, Amitabh recalled how his mother, Teji Bachchan, caught him listening to cricket commentary.

It all started when the contestant, Saurabh Shekhar, narrated that he would get beaten up by his father after trying to step out to watch a match. Upon this, Bachchan quickly shared that he is sailing on the same boat. The veteran actor said, “Once I was trying to hear a match on radio by going under a blanket and my mother caught me and I got beaten up.”

On the other, in another segment of the upcoming episode, the 79-year-old actor also talked about cropping his pictures “carefully” before posting them on his social media platforms. He asserted, “people will ask what is the glass doing behind? Where are you sitting? So I carefully crop my face and only post it so that people don’t comment.”

Meanwhile, the Kaun Banega Crorepati host also asked the contestant to share his experience of the “Play Along” section of the show. In response, Saurabh revealed he had earned some lakhs while playing KBC online during the pandemic.

Currently, Sony Entertainment is premiering the 14th season of the show with Big B. Along with contestants, actor Amir Khan, sports icons Mary Kom and Sunil Chhetri, and India's first Blade Runner, Major DP Singh, among others, have also graced the show.

Also Read: Amitabh Bachchan returns to Kaun Banega Crorepati set after testing negative for COVID-19 

Bhavana Pandey, Maheep Kapoor, Neelam Kothari Soni and Seema Kiran Sajdeh are back with the second season of Fabulous Lives of Bollywood Wives. The new season dropped on Friday on Netflix. The season has 8 episodes and Ranveer Singh makes an appearance in the season finale. It is known that the ladies of the show love Ranveer Singh, so it was on fitting for the Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani actor to make an appearance.

The actor said that he is truly flattered by all the praises they shower on them. He said, "I love being objectified. I am just a piece of meat. Just a battery-operated device." The actor and the Bollywood Wives danced together to an old song as well.

On the work front, Ranveer Singh has Rohit Shetty's Cirkus, Karan Johar's Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani, and Shankar's Anniyan.

ALSO READ: Fabulous Lives On Bollywood Wives: Maheep Kapoor makes shocking revelation about Sanjay Kapoor cheating on her during their 25 years of marriage

Debutant director Shubham Yogi's heart-warming coming-of-age sibling drama Kacchey Limbu starring Radhika Madan, Rajat Barmecha and introducing Ayush Mehra will have a world premiere at Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF2022).

Kacchey Limbu is a heartwarming sibling drama that tells the story of Aditi, a wilful young girl who is in the race of fulfilling dreams imposed on her by everyone and being at the receiving end each time. A story of courage, determination and discovering herself, Kacchey Limbu is an emotional rollercoaster in which she decides to take matters into her own hands to prove to her family, friends and especially her elder brother that being confused is not necessarily a bad thing. With time, the right decision will find its way to you.

Shubham Yogi, Director, Kacchey Limbu, "I am very excited to embark on my journey as a filmmaker with Kacchey Limbu, a coming-of-age sibling drama. The film is primarily a story of two young, middle-class siblings who have to navigate their family’s conditioning to find their own unique voice. Kacchey Limbu is everyone's story, and I believe that a story worth telling will always find a way to be told. I was fortunate to find producers - my prime collaborators, Neha Anand and Pranjal Khandhdiya (Mango People Media) and Jio Studios who believed in the story from the get-go and batted for the film on the front foot. With their faith in me and my story, I feel fortunate that I was able to tell the story in the way that I wanted to.

He adds, "Along with my own debut as a director, Kacchey Limbu cast is led by Radhika Madan, Rajat Barmecha and Ayush Mehra. It is a story that will connect with all families, as it touches upon the crossroads of dreams and realities in life. We have aspired to capture sibling love in a way that would strike a chord with everybody. I couldn’t have asked for more than a World Premiere for Kacchey Limbu at the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF2022)."

ALSO READ: Akshay Kumar and Radhika Madan begin shoot for Soorarai Pottru remake, watch video

Pop titans BTS recently announced the venue and date for the Global Busan Concert, WORLD EXPO 2030 BUSAN KOREA CONCERT BTS in BUSAN. BTS in Busan is being hosted to support the bid to host the World Expo 2030 in Busan Metropolitan City. Previously, the concert was supposed to take place at Busan Ilgwang special stage in Gijang-gun, Busan on October 15. Now, the venue has been changed following a thorough check on the safety concerns. It will be now held at Asiad Main Stadium.

As per the official statement released by BIGHIT Music, "We are informing you that the venue for the WORLD EXPO 2030 BUSAN KOREA CONCERT BTS <Yet To Come> in BUSAN has been changed.
The venue for the main concert has been changed from Ilgwang Special Stage as previously announced and the concert will now be held at the Busan Asiad Main Stadium. In July, BTS was appointed as the honorary ambassadors for the 2030 Busan World Expo because they understand the importance of the World Expo and share the same values."

The statement continued, "As a first step to aid BTS's support of the bid for Busan in 2030, we planned a massive, festival-like global concert for audiences across the world. We made the global concert free for all so that not only fans of BTS but everyone around the world could enjoy the festival-like experience together. Our goal was to contribute to Busan's bid for the World Expo by promoting the culture of both the global city of Busan and Korea as a whole through a large-scale concert with next-level production. After careful review of many places in Busan and how suitable they were for that plan, we originally elected to hold the concert in Ilgwang. Based on cooperation with organizations including Busan City, police, the fire department, and the Korea Railroad Corporation (Korail), we carefully moved ahead with organizing the event so that the audience would be able to have the most convenient experience possible."

It further read, "Our decision to change the location of the concert was made in an effort to ensure that the focus remains on the performance's main purpose, which is to promote the bid for the 2030 Busan World Expo. Our top priority is to preserve the main purpose of the concert and for the audience to have a smooth, enjoyable and accessible viewing experience. While the venue has changed, we remain dedicated to the vision and we will still be holding the other events related to the concert as planned. We will be holding LIVE PLAY at Busan Port International Passenger Terminal Outdoor Parking Lot so that the audience gathered there can watch the concert live on a large screen and experience the performance up-close. The concert will also be streamed online for everyone around the world to get in on the excitement of the performance, and we have even more events coming around Busan to keep the spirit of the concert alive. We thank you for your continued interest and support in WORLD EXPO 2030 BUSAN KOREA CONCERT BTS <Yet To Come> in BUSAN. We will provide details of the new venue and seating for the concert in an upcoming announcement."

[공지] 2030 부산세계박람회 유치 기원 콘서트 BTS <Yet To Come> in BUSAN 공연 장소 변경 안내 (+ENG/JPN/CHN) pic.twitter.com/9WzJIFPVSA

— BTS_official (@bts_bighit) September 2, 2022

Starting with the concert, BTS will kick off their activities as ambassadors for World Expo 2030 Busan, Korea. During the ambassador appointment ceremony last month, BTS said, “We will make extra efforts to not only support the bid, but also promote the beautiful nature and culture of the Republic of Korea worldwide.”

Back in June, it was announced that BTS, the newly appointed ambassadors for Busan’s World Expo 2030 bid, would hold the Global Busan Concert to support the nation’s bid to host the 2030 World Expo in Busan Metropolitan City. HYBE’s Chairman Bang Si-Hyuk and CEO Park Jiwon, and Mayor of Busan Metropolitan City Park Heong-joon signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the Busan Metropolitan City Hall to promote Busan’s bid for the World Expo 2030. As part of the agreement, BTS as ambassadors will hold the Global Busan Concert in efforts to bring the World Expo 2030 to Busan.

The memorandum covers joint initiatives for Busan to succeed in its bid as the host. It includes BTS to: Act as the ambassadors;Hold Global Concert in Busan, activities to appeal to the members of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE); Personally introduce the proposed site for the BIE Enquiry Missions; Serve as the ambassadors at South Korea’s presentation session; Be present on the election day to support the bid; Provide photos and videos for the city's digital campaigns, and; Spread promotional videos via official social media channels, and more.

ALSO READ: BTS to hold global concert to bring the World Expo 2030 to Busan on October 15; 100,000 people are expected to attend

Balenciaga has been a favourite of Kim Kardashian's. She has appeared on several notable events wearing legendary dresses from the design company, and the partnership is still going strong. On August 31, Balenciaga unveiled its winter 2022 campaign, featuring Kardashian prominently. The beauty mogul has been a representative of the brand for a while, launching some of its greatest trends, including the hybrid bodysuit dress, the Le Cagole purse, the Pantaleggings, and the cat-suit. Alexa Demie, a fellow Balenciaga muse from the popular show Euphoria, also appears in the campaign.

The climate change is the focus of the winter 2022 campaign pictures, which were taken by Berlin-based photographer Daniel Roché. Kim Kardashian shared images from the campaign on Wednesday with her 329 million Instagram followers, in which "Balenciaga" is written over her well-known bottom. Kardashian poses in a somewhat apocalyptic setting while wearing an electric blue skin-tight dress with back cut-outs for the ad. The outfit is comparable to the one she wore in March to Vanity Fair's Oscars after party. She is also seen in one of the ad photographs wearing a yellow flower pattern dress. She gets captured in a picture in a snowy setting while carrying a Balenciaga purse.

Alongside Kim, Alexa Demie, Big Matthew, Khadim Sock, and Kim Yeon-koung, each wore the new and finest creations from Balenciaga, made appearances carrying the Crush Bag, HD Sneaker, Swing Bag, Knife Wader, Trash Pouch, and Glove Boot.

 

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Also Read: Kim Kardashian breaks the internet posting video of her Metallic cut-out monokini and futuristic sunglasses

Earlier this year in February, we saw the Madhuri Dixit starrer The Fame Game hit the popular streaming platform Netflix. Consisting of eight episodes, the show followed the story of a popular actress Anamika, played by Madhuri, India's most famous actress who goes missing. Following this a search for her is launched which gradually chips away at the flawless facade of her life and family, revealing painful truths. Though the first season of the show received rather good feedback from the audience, Bollywood Hungama has learnt that the OTT streaming giant has decided on dropping the second season from its catalogue.

Informs a well-placed industry source, “The Fame Game season 2 was set to commence towards the end of this year. However, now Netflix India has dropped the show from its catalogue essentially cancelling season 2 of the show.” Prod the source about the reason behind this cancellation and he continues, “Given the way things have been progressing and more filmmakers and content creators approaching OTT platforms, Netflix and the likes have a vast array to choose from. As for cancelling The Fame Game season 2, the reasons could be anything from lack of good content to production budgets. In fact, since season 1 did so well, ideally Netflix would be looking to up the game with The Fame Game season 2. But with the show being dropped it looks like the content wasn’t up to the mark.”

While it still remains unclear whether The Fame Game season 2 was dropped due to a lack of good content, the source claims that the makers of the show still have a chance of reviving the project. “Though Netflix India has dropped the show for now, if in case it was the content, the same can be reworked and adjusted. Once done, the second season can be reviewed by the OTT platform and even re-added to their catalogue. Right now, Netflix is concentrating on expanding a catalogue that features good content that will appeal and connect with the mass audience in India.”

As for the show, The Fame Game season 1 featured Madhuri Dixit in the lead role as Anamika Anand, alongside Sanjay Kapoor, Manav Kaul and Muskkaan Jaferi.

Also Read: Jogi Trailer - Diljit Dosanjh fights for family, brotherhood during 1984 anti-Sikh riots in Ali Abbas Zafar directorial, watch video

Netflix on Friday confirmed that director Roh Deok and actors Jeon Yeo Been and Nana starrer Glitch is finally set to premiere in October. The series tells the story of Hong Jihyo, who attempts to track down her missing boyfriend with the help of members from a UFO club. In the process, she comes face to face with a mysterious secret.

The first poster along with the release announcement was made on September 2, 2022.

 

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Jeon Yeo Been plays the lead role of Hong Jihyo. In her quest to find her boyfriend, she and the UFO club come face to face with unknown beings and the mysterious secret they harbor.

The series is directed by Roh Deok, known for her genre-crossing agility. With her hit film Very Ordinary Couple, her keen insight and refined aesthetic approach earned the film the Best Feature Award in the Asian New Talent category at the 16th Shanghai International Film Festival. 

Glitch will be released exclusively on Netflix on October 7, 2022.

ALSO READ: Jeon Yeo Been and Park Jung Min in talks to join Hyun Bin in new spy action film Harbin set in the early 1900s

Amitabh Bachchan has returned to work after spending nine days in quarantine. The 79-year-old actor tested negative for the COVID-19 and returned to work on Thursday morning. It was the second time Amitabh Bachchan had tested positive. He has been shooting for the show Kaun Banega Crorepati 14.

“Back at work .. your prayers (folded hands emojis) gratitude .. negative last night .. and 9 days isolation over .. mandatory is 7 days .. My love as ever to all .. you are kind and concerned throughout .. the family Ef so full of care .. .. have only my folded hands for you,” he wrote on his blog.

On the work front, Amitabh Bachchan will be seen in Ayan Mukerji's Brahmastra, Nag Ashwin's next with Prabhas and Deepika Padukone, Sooraj Barjatya's Unchhaai, The Intern remake and more.

ALSO READ: NRI family unveils statue of Amitabh Bachchan worth Rs. 60 lakhs to install in their residence

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

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.