Sajid Nadiadwala is on a roll. Last week, he made the big announcement that he’s collaborating one more time with superstar Salman Khan for an exciting action entertainer. The film will be directed by A R Murugadoss of Ghajini (2008) fame and will arrive in cinemas on Eid 2025. On Tuesday, March 19, he announced his association with Amazon Prime Video for his four upcoming films – Kartik Aaryan-starrer Chandu Champion, Ahan Shetty-Pooja Hegde starrer Sanki, the multi-starrer comic caper Housefull 5 and Tiger Shroff’s action entertainer, Baaghi 4. The association between Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment and the streaming giant was announced at a grand event held by Amazon Prime Video in Mumbai. And now, we have learnt that the reputed producer has one more exciting project up his sleeve.

For many days, an under-construction project opposite Fun Republic in Andheri, Mumbai has caught the attention of several people passing by. This is because the gate proudly mentions NGI - Nadiadwala Grandson Infrastructure. It made people curious whether Sajid Nadiadwala is shifting his office or residence to this plot. Some even speculated that the producer has entered the real estate business.

Bollywood Hungama has learned that Sajid Nadiadwala is putting his ambitious plans in place at this venue. A reliable source told us, “Mr Nadiadwala is constructing a state-of-the-art VFX studio at this plot. It has been his dream project for several years and it’s finally coming to fruition.”

When asked for more details, the source replied, “Not much is known as the project has been kept a secret. But we have learnt that he will be collaborating with an international VFX studio for his dream venture.”

We reached out to the spokesperson of Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, who confirmed this development.

An industry insider commented, “This is a huge step for Sajid Nadiadwala. VFX is indispensable in today’s times and with this vertical, he can get the VFX-related work done in-house for his movies. And like Red Chillies.VFX and NY VFXWaala, he can also encourage other producers to use this facility. Knowing him, I am sure the services offered will be top-class.”

Also Read: Amazon Prime Video event: Sajid Nadiadwala says “With Kick, we gave Salman Khan his first Rs. 200 cr hit and also biggest hits of Varun Dhawan, Arjun Kapoor”; Tiger Shroff reveals, “Thanks to Sajid sir, I got my first girlfriend”

The 17th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is poised to commence with a spectacular celebration on Friday, March 22. The tournament will kick off in grand style at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Under the captaincy of MS Dhoni, the CSK squad is set to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in what promises to be an electrifying opener to the season. Adding to the fervour, the IPL 2024 will begin with a glittering opening ceremony at Chepauk, continuing the tradition of merging cricket with high-octane entertainment. The organizers have revealed a star-studded lineup that is sure to keep the audience on the edge of their seats.

Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar is set to perform ahead of Bade Miyan Chote Miyan release. Joining him is Tiger Shroff, fresh from his performance at the Women’s Premier League (WPL) opening ceremony in Bengaluru. Together, they are expected to set the stage on fire, especially as they gear up for their appearance in the much-anticipated Ali Abbas Zafar directorial.

The opening ceremony of the TATA IPL 2024, revealed on X (formerly Twitter), is expected to be nothing short of a fun experience. A caption on the official account read, “The stage is set, the lights are bright, and the stars are ready to shine at the #TATAIPL 2024 Opening Ceremony! Get ready for an unforgettable fusion of cricket and entertainment ft. a stellar lineup!”

Fans can look forward to a fusion of cricket and entertainment, with the opening ceremony setting the stage for what is anticipated to be one of the most exciting seasons of the IPL. Adding a melodious layer to the evening will be none other than AR Rahman. He will share the stage with Sonu Nigam. ALSO READ: Ali Abbas Zafar teases glimpses from trailer of Akshay Kumar – Tiger Shroff starrer Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, see photos and videos

Just a day ago, reports of a major change in cast on the sets of Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai left fans shocked. It seems that producer Rajan Shahi was left disappointed with Shehzada Dhami and Pratiksha Honmukhe for their misbehaviour towards the crew. Despite several warnings when they refused to change it, they were fired from the show despite playing lead characters. Now the latest update on that front is that Samriddhii Shukla, who plays the protagonist Abhira, will now be joined by Rohit Purohit and Garvita Sadhwani.

In fact, the makers have also unveiled a short promo of the two actors dressed in ethnic Rajasthani attires. For the unversed, Shehzada Dhami and Pratiksha Honmukhe essayed the role of estranged lovers Armaan Poddar and Roohi Poddar, whose relationship turns even more complicated with Armaan marrying Abhira after the demise of her mother Akshara and Roohi marrying Rohit over extreme family pressure. The latest promo features Rohit Purohit and Garvita Sadhwani playing holi with flowers considering that the festival is round the corner where they showcase the intense love between the two, leaving audiences surprised about their chemistry.

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by ???????????????????? ???????????????????????????? (@rohitpurohit08)

Meanwhile the two actors have also expressed their excitement on the platform by sharing photos and videos of them prepping to get into their new avatars. Rohit shared a photo from the sets as Armaan and addressed it as ‘new beginnings’, whereas Garvita penned a note of gratitude and added, “Shukraan, here’s to a new beginning ?????? Meet me as #RoohiPoddar in #yehrishtakyakehlatahai everyday 9:30PM only on @starplus Thank you so much @rajan.shahi.543 sir @directorskutproduction team, for welcoming me to the family with an open heart and for the faith you have shown! Onwards and upwards ???? God Willing!”

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by ???????????????????? ???????????????????????????? (@rohitpurohit08)

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Garvita Sadhwani (@garvita.ig)

While Rohit was last seen in Udaariyaan post the first leap as Nehmat’s first husband, Advait Kapoor and later in the show, Gauna in 2023. Whereas, Garvita is best known for her role as Mrunal Deshmukh in Baatein Kuch Ankahee Se which ended last week.

Also Read: Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai producer Rajan Shahi FIRES Shehzada Dhami and Pratiksha Honmukhe after four months: Report

Vidya Balan shared an exciting facet of her involvement in the upcoming romantic comedy Do Aur Do Pyaar. The film will see her in yet another unconventional but commercial role alongside Vidya Balan, Pratik Gandhi, Ileana D’Cruz, and Sendhil Ramamurthy. In an exclusive revelation by the producers, it has been disclosed that Vidya played a pivotal role in conceptualizing the film's captivating title.

Vidya Balan is known for her quick wittedness and the actress has often showcased it during chat shows and candid conversations. In a recent interaction, she revealed how she played an important role in forming the title. She shared insights into the inspiration behind the film's title  as she opened up about how she came up with the title and added, "I happened to suggest the title to the producers during a brainstorming session, and it resonated with them instantly." She continued, “I adore it because it captures the essence of the film perfectly. If you see the poster closely, keen observers may catch some intriguing hints. As they say, ‘If you know, you know’." While the role the actress will be playing is yet to be revealed, she is expected to be paired alongside Indian-American actor Sendhil Ramamurthy, who is best known for the Netflix show Never Have I Ever.

Do Aur Do Pyaar encapsulates the essence of the rom-com genre, transcending boundaries and captivating audiences with its universal appeal. Presented by Applause Entertainment and produced by Ellipsis Entertainment, the romantic comedy marks the directorial debut of award-winning ad filmmaker Shirsha Guha Thakurta.

Scheduled to grace the silver screen on April 19, 2024, Do Aur Do Pyaar promises to be a refreshing take on modern-day relationships, blending romance, humor, as it takes audiences on a ride filled with love, romance, laughter, and surprises galore.

Also Read: Photos: Vidya Balan snapped outside a clinic in Bandra

The highly-awaited film Maidaan is finally releasing next month in cinemas after a long wait. The Ajay Devgn-starrer faced numerous delays as the team faced various challenges. With the release nearly three weeks away, the makers of the film have now faced one more hurdle. A vendor has filed a case against Maidaan’s producer Boney Kapoor over non-payment of dues of nearly Rs. 1 crore.

As per a report in Mid-Day, the suit has been filed by Ninad Nayampally of Meherafrin Investments Private Limited at a civil court in Dindoshi, Mumbai against Boney Kapoor and also the other producers. Moreover, Ninad has even sought an injunction to prevent the release of Maidaan on Eid.

Ninad Nayampally told Mid-Day that they provided camera-related equipment to the unit of Maidaan. He revealed that initially, their invoices were cleared but the situation changed from December 2020. Once the payments stopped coming, Ninad raised the issue with Boney Kapoor. Ninad stated that Boney, at that time, assured them that their dues would be cleared. But when that didn’t happen, they decided to issue a legal notice to Boney Kapoor’s production house, Bayview Projects LLP.

Ninad Nayampally then said, “Having no route left, we took the legal recourse and issued a legal notice to Bayview and its directors with the intention that we would get some clarification on our dues. To our surprise, there was no response to our legal notice. Left with no other option, approaching the court of law was the only solution for our recovery.”

Easiah Dhanpal Xavier, who is also the complainant in the suit, added, “The producer had assured us that the outstanding dues would be settled before the release of the film. However, the producer and his partners have ceased all communications with us. Their conduct indicates a clear lack of intention to settle the outstanding dues owed to us.”

The article also carries screenshots of WhatsApp chats between Boney Kapoor and the vendor. It dates back to July 2023 and depicts the vendor asking for payment and when their dues would be cleared. Boney doesn’t reply to these pleas. Another screenshot shows the vendor once again approaching the producer in August. This time, Boney Kapoor asks him to meet him after August 14 or 15. This is followed by the vendor messaging on August 21 and 22 to ask about the meeting, which proves that both never met after August 15. These messages also didn't elicit a response from the veteran producer.

Boney Kapoor, however, spoke to Mid-Day and he claimed that he owes Rs. 63 lakhs and not Rs. 1 crore to Meherafrin Investments Private Limited. He stated, “I have spoken to my team and he (Ninad) has been told that he would be paid before the release of the picture, which is only a month away. Not only he, other vendors also have been promised the same. Everybody knows that the (movie) was stuck because of COVID.”

He continued, “I have made 45 films and nobody has been deprived in my company. There is no way that I will avoid any kind of payment. This is nothing but an arm-twisting tactic. I will clear whatever the bill is, excluding interest on the pending amount. We will reply to whatever is mentioned in the suit in court but he can’t seek an injunction before Rs 63 lakh is paid.”

Also Read: Maidaan song ‘Mirza’ out: Ajay Devgn and Priyamani’s blissful chemistry takes center stage, watch

Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh fans are super excited to see the couple become parents and cannot wait for September 2024 when the actress is due. On the other hand, the social media posts of the duo, ever since they made their announcement about their pregnancy, has been receiving ample love from users on the platform. In fact, a recent cute selfie shared by the mother-to-be has won hearts as fans couldn’t stop gushing over her pregnancy glow and it also includes her beloved hubby.

Deepika Padukone took to Instagram to share a photo of her getting her hair styled and it seems that the actress opted for a hair cut and has been missing her long hair. She expressed about the same in the caption wherein she wrote, “#MissedMyLongHair”. The actress was dressed in a casual attire and in a make-up look but according to netizens, she ‘glowed’ due to the pregnancy. Her husband Ranveer Singh was one of the first to comment on the post and called her “Cute” and also shared an emoji of a female getting a haircut along with twin hearts, totally digging her new look.

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by दीपिका पादुकोण (@deepikapadukone)

Meanwhile, many of the actress’ fans also posted their comments about her new look. While many expressed their delight of Deepy sharing a selfie, some couldn’t stop gushing about her beauty as they shared, “Momma being a hottie as well”, “Pregnancy has really made you more beautiful”, “Look at the glowwwww”. One of them even went on to address her as “GORGEOUS MAMA”. Along with these sweet messages which started pouring in, there were also many who dropped heart and other emojis to showcase their love.

On the work front, Deepika Padukone is expected to be seen in an extended cameo in the film Singham Again, which will be introducing new characters from the Rohit Shetty copverse. Apart from Ajay Devgn and Kareena Kapoor Khan in leads, the film will feature Ranveer Singh, Akshay Kumar, Tiger Shroff, including Deepika in key roles with Arjun Kapoor as the antagonist. It is slated for release on August 15 this year.

Also Read: Anisha Padukone shares her excitement about sister Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh becoming parents; says, “I want to say Ranveer will spoil the baby”

Siddhant Chaturvedi has been making his mark through a varied and impressive filmography. The young actor has worked alongside some of the industry's heavyweights, reflecting genuine talent, a strong work ethic, and the crucial backing he's garnered from fellow actors throughout his journey.

In a recent interview on Kiska Brand Bajega hosted by Aditya Bhat, Siddhant Chaturvedi compared his career journey to a game of cricket. “I'd say if I am a cricketer, I want to play a test match, I want to play one day. I want to also play IPL.” He is a well-rounded actor who has tackled all formats of entertainment- movies, theatre, and everything in between, commenting that- “I want to do everything like a 360-degree approach to it.”

Siddhant is also refreshingly genuine with his audience. He emphasises the importance of authenticity and staying true to oneself, even in the face of criticism. He spoke about how his focus is on delivering high-quality content that resonates with viewers, “So for me, it's all exciting as long as the audience showers me with all the love. As long as the film is good, the content is good, and the audience is excited about whatever's coming out.”

Siddhant's empathetic approach extends to his interactions with online negativity. He recognized that many times they want attention and don't actually mean anything badly. He shared an experience with a follower saying- “I replied- What happened, is everything fine? So they are like- Bhai sorry aapka attention chahiye tha, aur kaise ho bhai?” ALSO READ: Siddhant Chaturvedi reveals how his father motivated him to pursue acting before his breakout role, “He said, ‘Yaha nai hoga toh Hollywood mai try karenge’”

This year, Aamir Khan embarks on a dual journey of acting and production. Set to star in Sitaare Zameen Par, the Hindi adaptation of the Spanish film Campeones, directed by RS Prasanna, Khan commenced the shoot in February 2024. The film is slated for a Christmas release and will focus on the story of people with Down Syndrome. Joining him on this journey is Genelia D'Souza and a new photo from the set has gone viral.

A behind-the-scenes photo sees Genelia D'Souza sharing a laugh with Aamir Khan. Dressed in a white top and distressed denims, she was sharing a conversation with Aamir, who was donning a plain black tshirt and denims.

Speaking with TV9 during their summit recently, Aamir Khan said, “My next film as a lead actor, which has just begun filming, is Sitaare Zameen Par. We are trying to release it by the end of this year, on the occasion of Christmas. It is an entertaining film, I like the story. The shooting of the film has begun.”

“But besides that, you will be able to see me not as a lead actor in the film but I am doing a few things. Let’s see how the audience reacts,” Aamir said, as he added, “I am doing a few small roles.”

In the upcoming Hindi remake set in Punjab, Aamir Khan takes on the role of a headstrong minor league basketball coach sentenced to community service. Tasked with coaching a Special Olympics team comprising individuals with diverse learning disabilities, Khan's character undergoes a transformative journey. ALSO READ: Aamir Khan confirms Christmas 2024 release for Sitare Zameen Par: “It is an entertaining film”

The upcoming Anupam Kher directorial movie Tanvi The Great on-boards Oscar-winning music director MM Keeravani. This collaboration promises to be an exciting one. With Anupam leading the show and Keeravani crafting the music, 'Tanvi The Great' is expected to create some beautiful melodies.

Talking about the same, MM Keeravani shares, "I am thrilled to be a part of Tanvi The Great. Collaborating with Anupam Kher is like being yourself all the time. Work was never this much fun before."

Anupam Kher added, "ALL DREAMS COME TRUE: Proud to announce that one of the finest music composers of our times #Oscar and #GoldenGlobe winner @mmkeeravaani sir is the music director of my directorial film #TanviTheGreat! I have been a fan of #Keeravani sir since I heard the song #TumMileDilKhile. Spending almost a year to create the music and songs for #TanviTheGreat has been a total BLISS and BLESSING! Thank you Sir for your brilliance and generosity! Jai Ho! @anupamkherstudio."

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Anupam Kher (@anupampkher)

M.M Keeravani is a recipient of the Oscar Award and Golden Globe award for 'Naatu Naatu' song and many more acclaimed awards under his name.

Tanvi The Great is produced under Anupam Kher Studio. ALSO READ: Anupam Kher announces his next directorial Tanvi The Great on his birthday, shoot starts on Maha Shivratri, see announcement

Filmmaker Karan Johar has a reason to celebrate as his beloved mother, Hiroo Johar, marked her birthday today. Taking to his social media platform, Karan shared heartwarming birthday wishes accompanied by touching snapshots, encapsulating the profound bond between a son and his mother.

In a poignant note, Karan Johar expressed profound admiration and gratitude towards his mother, recognizing her as a force of nature. He highlighted the invaluable lessons she imparted, shaping his perspective on life and success. "Mothers are a force of nature…. They take unconditional love to a level that is almost unreal…. I am blessed to have a mother who grounded me and made me believe that professional achievements don’t define us … our behaviour does… she made me believe that goodness is more important than ambition and that if I am in the right or am correct in a circumstance or situation then there doesn’t need to be a battle…. Patience will give me the eventual validation….," Johar's heartfelt words began.

Expressing his love and gratitude, Karan Johar concluded his message with a heartfelt declaration, "Love you Mom and happy birthday … thank you for bringing me into this world and also becoming my world…"

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Karan Johar (@karanjohar)

As fans and well-wishers flooded social media with messages of love and admiration, Karan Johar shared the note along with photos of himself and his kids Roohi and Yash.

On the work front, Karan Johar last directed Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. He has an array of production line-up though he is yet to announce his next directorial. ALSO READ: Karan Johar DEFENDS appreciating Animal: “I didnt go deep into the moral communication”

In their much-anticipated film Crew, set to release in theatres on March 29, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Tabu, and Kriti Sanon grace the screen together for the first time. Following the release of teasers and two songs, the unveiling of the trailer on March 16 heightened excitement. Kareena, in a candid moment, shared insights into her experience working alongside Tabu, reflecting the mutual respect and admiration between the two accomplished actresses.

At the trailer launch event on Saturday, March 16, Kareena Kapoor said, “I am super excited because I got to work with Tabu for the first time. Lolo (her sister Karisma Kapoor) has worked with her so many times. I had the opportunity and the honour of finally sharing screen space with her.”

Kareena was talking about Tabu and Karisma’s bond as they had worked together on Hum Saath Saath Hain, Biwi No. 1, Saajan Chale Sasural, and Jeet among others.

Directed by Rajesh A Krishnan, this film from Balaji Telefilms and Anil Kapoor Film & Communications Network is set to hit theatres on March 29th, 2024. ALSO READ: Crew Trailer Review: Industry celebs rave about Kareena Kapoor Khan, Tabu, Kriti Sanon starrer

Shah Rukh Khan is a proud father of three kids. While the youngest one AbRam Khan is still studying in school, his older kids Aryan Khan and Suhana Khan have taken the first steps towards their careers in the entertainment industry. Aryan has his luxury streetwear brand D'yavol, for which, he recently recruited not just his father but also his sister. And SRK is proudly flaunting his son's work.

In his recent airport appearance, Shah Rukh Khan was donning a sleek black ensemble, featuring two ponytails, igniting a frenzy among onlookers. Pausing at Duty-Free, he seized the moment to spotlight his son Aryan Khan's exclusive streetwear label and shared the video on his Instagram account.

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk)

He also shared an array of photos of himself, Suhana Khan, and Aryan Khan as the new collection was launched recently.

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by D'YAVOL X (@dyavol.x)

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by D'YAVOL X (@dyavol.x)

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by D'YAVOL X (@dyavol.x)

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by D'YAVOL X (@dyavol.x)

Meanwhile, Shah Rukh Khan is yet to announce his next project, though he has Pathaan 2, Sujoy Ghosh's King with Suhana Khan and Pathaan vs Tiger. Speaking to Raya Abirached, Shah Rukh spoke about his next project last year and said, “I think I’ll start one in March-April now. Like I’ve been attempting now to do a film which is more age-real to me and play it still as the protagonist and the star of the film.” ALSO READ: Ed Sheeran does a private performance of 'Perfect' for Shah Rukh Khan in this adorable video

Pankaj Tripathi is currently seen in Homi Adajania’s Murder Mubarak. The film stars Sara Ali Khan, Karisma Kapoor, Vijay Varma, Dimple Kapadia, Sanjay Kapoor, Tisca Chopra, Suhail Nayyar and Aashim Gulati. Premiered on Netflix on March 15, the film has opened to mixed reviews. However, Tripathi’s performance is being praised as always. Amid much buzz around the film, let’s look at his Mumbai residence. The actor, a seasoned stalwart of the entertainment realm with over two decades of experience, realized his long-cherished aspiration of purchasing a home in 2019.

As per GQ India, nestled in the serene locale of Madh Island, his abode offers an idyllic panorama of the Arabian Sea, embodying tranquillity amidst the bustling industry. Eschewing the ostentatious trends, Tripathi opted for a modest yet elegant design scheme for his dwelling, christened Roop Katha.

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Pankaj Tripathi (@pankajtripathi)

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Pankaj Tripathi (@pankajtripathi)

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Pankaj Tripathi (@pankajtripathi)

Its all-white exterior exudes simplicity, while inside, the ambience evokes a rustic charm, accentuated by bespoke wooden furnishings crafted by Mysore artisans. Adorned with curated artefacts and verdant foliage, the interior spaces are bathed in natural light filtering through expansive windows. The heart of the home lies in its capacious kitchen, meticulously equipped to cater to culinary endeavours. Take a look:

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Jaya Ahsan (@jaya.ahsan)

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Pankaj Tripathi (@pankajtripathi)

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Pankaj Tripathi (@pankajtripathi)

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Pankaj Tripathi (@pankajtripathi)

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Pankaj Tripathi (@pankajtripathi)

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Pankaj Tripathi (@pankajtripathi)

On the work front, Pankaj Tripathi has an array of line-up including Metro In Dino, Stree 2 and Mirzapur season 3. ALSO READ: Homi Adajania grateful to have worked with Pankaj Tripathi in Murder Mubarak: Directing such an intuitive actor was a joy

For their latest collection the brand presented as Lenora, Varun Chakkilam explored the opulent splendour of luminosity – the light. With every ensemble, the label brings a sense of its Hyderabadi cultural origin with a graceful yet playful range of garments for contemporary men and women. As Lakme Fashion Week is back for its 49th edition in partnership with the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), the five-day extravaganza that took place from 13 to 17 March 2024 at Mumbai’s Jio World Convention Centre, Varun Chakkilam opened the 4th day of LFW with his stunning show. Sara Ali Khan was the showstopper for Chakkilam's collection as she flaunted her burn marks while walking the ramp on Saturday.

Sara was recently injured and had burn marks on her stomach. However, the actress has been busy promoting her movies Murder Mubarak and Ae Watan Mere Watan. After walking the ramp at Lakme Fashion Week 2024, Sara Ali Khan shared, “I’m in awe how the designer has used luminous glass beadwork with contemporary forms and the intricate embroideries with aari work. The showstopper outfit is absolutely stunning. It’s covered in handcrafted beadwork and embroidery, making it a stunning lehenga style that is contemporary.”

Sara Ali Khan wore a pearl grey embroidered lehenga with dori embroidery fused with silver zari strings highlighted with glass beads and Swarovski studded crystals. To give a modern and chic look, the brand paired the lehenga with Swarovski embellished bralette and floral components. As we all know she is the princess of Pataudi, to keep her royalty alive, the brand has paired the look with a veil.

The eponymous label’s upcoming range took its audience on a journey of sartorial splendour. The dazzling spectacle left an indelible mark on the viewers, and the vision for this collection transcended boundaries. Embracing an aura of effortless refinement, it exuded a palette of pure white to the celestial depths of infinite greys, with touches of burnt copper and earthy russet browns. Hinting at the colour trends from the runway, the designer Varun Chakkilam shares, “I’m excited to share my vision. Lenora is all about light and we’ve taken inspiration from even the reflection of light. It’s translated to garments in the form of plush textures, handcrafted with skilled handwork. Lenora weaves a narrative of timeless enchantment.” ALSO READ: Sara Ali Khan reminisces debut feels as Murder Mubarak and Ae Watan Mere Watan release back to back

Veteran screenwriter and lyricist Javed Akhtar has addressed the recent uproar sparked by filmmaker Sandeep Reddy Vanga's reaction to his veiled critique of Animal, featuring Ranbir Kapoor. In an interview with Mojo Story, Javed emphasized that while Sandeep has the creative liberty to produce films like Animal, he pointed out that the director has not identified any shortcomings in his extensive 53-year film career.

“I was not criticising the filmmaker at all. I think in a democratic society, he has the right to make one Animal, and many Animals. I was concerned about the audience, not about the filmmaker. He has the right to make any film,” said Javed Akhtar. In the same interview, the lyricist and writer, despite not having seen the film, acknowledged Sandeep's right to valorize characters, as protected by the Constitution. However, his concern was directed towards the millions who celebrated it.

For unversed, Vanga has also called out the misogyny in Akhtar’s son Farhan Akhtar’s show Mirzapur. To this, Javed Akhtar said, “When he responded to me, I was honoured. In 53 years of my career, he could not find one film, one script, one scene, one dialogue, one song. So he had to go to my son's office and find a TV serial, which is neither acted, directed nor written by Farhan. His company has produced it. Nowadays, these big companies like Excel are producing a lot of things. So one of them is this. He mentioned that. It flattered me to no end. 53 years ke career mein tum kuch bhi nahi nikaal paye (You couldn't find anything sexist in 53 years of my career)? What a shame.”

The controversy erupted when Javed Akhtar criticized the much-talked-about shoe-licking scene in Animal featuring Ranbir Kapoor and Triptii Dimri. At an event, he said, “I believe it’s a testing time for the young filmmakers today as to what kind of characters they want to create that the society will applaud. For instance, if there’s a film in which a man asks a woman to lick his shoe or if a man says it’s okay to slap a woman, and if the film is a super duper hit, then that’s very dangerous.”

Responding to Akhtar’s criticism, Vanga told Siddharth Kannan, “Why didn’t he tell the same thing to Farhan Akhtar when he was producing Mirzapur. Duniya bhar ke gaali Mirzapur ek show mai hai (the series is full of abuses) and I haven’t watched the whole show. When the show was translated to Telugu, if you watch that, then you will feel like puking. Why is he not checking his son’s work?”

On the work front, Javed Akhtar will work on Farhan Akhtar’s Don 3 and Rajkumar Santoshi’s Lahore 1947. Meanwhile, Sandeep Reddy Vanga has Prabhas’ Spirit and Ranbir Kapoor starrer Animal Park. ALSO READ: REVEALED: Javed Akhtar was paid a whopping Rs. 25 lakhs to write Dunkis song ‘Nikle The Kabhi Hum Ghar Se’; is the HIGHEST fee charged by any lyricist ever

The teaser of Crew was launched last month and it instantly made the film one of the most awaited of the season. Starring Tabu, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Kriti Sanon, it is based on three air hostesses and how their life changes all of a sudden. The teaser indicates that the film will have lots of humour and also a dash of crime. Meanwhile, Bollywood Hungama learned of an interesting aspect of the film that is doing the rounds.

It is being speculated that Crew is inspired by the Kingfisher Airlines bankruptcy episode, which rocked the country more than a decade ago. The speculations arose thanks to some of the moments and dialogues in the teaser. At one point, Kareena Kapoor Khan in the promo complains that she has been serving the passengers veg and non-veg food for free. Also, the motivation of the characters to take the route of crime has further given rise to this speculation. Moreover, the name of the company where the characters work in the film is Kohinoor Airlines. It sounds very similar to Kingfisher Airlines.

Kingfisher Airlines was owned by Vijay Mallya and it began operations in 2005. The airline was loved at one point for its stellar service, reasonable costs and for being the first airline to provide in-flight entertainment even on domestic routes. Soon, the airline ran into losses and ceased operations in October 2012. Thousands of employees weren’t paid their salaries and it became a national issue. The matter became so big that Vijay Mallya fled the country and hasn’t been to India ever since.

Coming back to Crew, it also stars Diljit Dosanjh and Kapil Sharma. It is directed by Rajesh Krishnan of Lootcase (2020) fame and is produced by Ektaa R Kapoor, Shobha Kapoor, Anil Kapoor and Rhea Kapoor. It releases in cinemas on March 29.

Also Read: Kareena Kapoor Khan calls Crew ‘light-hearted’ film; assures fans that “the Bebo they love…”

Aryan Khan, son of Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan, orchestrated a captivating advertisement for his luxury streetwear brand, D’yavol X. The latest campaign showcased Suhana Khan, Shah Rukh's daughter, adding a fresh allure. In a new photo shared by the Jawan actor, the trio are seen posing in the collection.

Shah Rukh Khan took to his Instagram handle on Friday to share a photo of himself with Suhana and Aryan. He captioned the post, “Triple Threat…”

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by D'YAVOL X (@dyavol.x)

Suhana Khan, marked her debut in Zoya Akhtar’s The Archies last year, now gearing up for Sujoy Ghosh’s King where Shah Rukh Khan will make an extended appearance.

On the other hand, Aryan Khan ventures into directing with Stardom, a six-episode series under Red Chillies Entertainment. The series boasts a constellation of stars, including cameos from Shah Rukh Khan, Ranbir Kapoor, Ranveer Singh, Karan Johar, and Bobby Deol. Leading the narrative is Lakshya Lalwani, offering a fictionalized peek into Bollywood's inner workings. ALSO READ: Suhana Khan stuns in new campaign photos of Aryan Khan’s streetwear brand, see pics

Actors Saif Ali Khan, Jaideep Ahlawat and Nikita Dutta have begun shooting for an upcoming action-packed heist thriller titled Jewel Thief, as per reports. The film, helmed by director Robbie Grewal of Romeo Akbar Walter fame, is being produced by Siddharth Anand under his banner Marflix. This marks Anand's second production venture following Fighter.

The yet-untitled film, which is set to premiere exclusively on Netflix, promises to deliver a gripping narrative filled with adrenaline-pumping action sequences and intense showdowns. Contrary to its title, Jewel Thief is not a remake or a sequel of the classic Dev Anand film; rather, it's a distinct story carefully crafted by Robbie Grewal, with Anand himself selecting the title for its resonance with the film's plot.

According to report by PinkVilla, the central conflict of Jewel Thief revolves around a captivating battle royale between Saif Ali Khan and Jaideep Ahlawat, two powerhouse performers known for their versatility and prowess on screen. An insider revealed, “While the film is titled Jewel Thief, it has got nothing to do with the original film starring the legendary Dev Anand. Siddharth Anand had this title registered under his banner and believes that the title is apt for the subject of this Robbie Grewal directorial.” Industry insiders estimate that Netflix acquired the film for a staggering Rs. 60 crore.

Siddharth Anand is currently in the process of developing projects with directors Rohit Dhawan and Sujoy Ghosh, featuring stars like Tiger Shroff and Shah Rukh Khan with his daughter Suhana Khan making her debut. While his directorial schedule remains flexible, Anand has already committed to Tiger vs Pathaan for YRF in 2025. ALSO READ: Saif Ali Khan-Jaideep Ahlawat’s next with Siddharth Anand titled Jewel Thief: Report 

Amidst the glitz and glamour of Bollywood, one name shines brightly, captivating audiences with every performance – Kareena Kapoor Khan. As she revels in the success of her recent thriller, Jaane Jaan, the anticipation mounts for her next venture, Crew.

In a recent interaction with her fans, Kareena Kapoor Khan shared insights into her upcoming project. She described Crew as a delightful, light-hearted journey. “It’s a very fun light hearted film to watch. I think after Laal Singh Chaddha and Jaane Jaan, this is the film that all my fans will really enjoy. The Bebo that they want to see; the Bebo they love.” As the anticipation builds and the countdown to Crew begins, fans eagerly await the chance to witness Kareena's charm grace the screen once more.

Scheduled to release in cinemas on March 29, 2024, Crew also stars Tabu, Kriti Sanon and Diljit Dosanjh. Balaji Telefilms and Anil Kapoor Film & Communications Network join forces to bring this much-awaited project to the big screen, helmed by the talented director Rajesh A Krishnan. ALSO READ: Crew trailer starring Tabu, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Kriti Sanon to arrive on March 16

Kartik Aaryan is no stranger to making a statement. The actor recently took to social media to share a glimpse of his latest purchase – a stunning Range Rover SV. In a picture-perfect moment captured alongside his beloved furry companion, Katori, Kartik showcased his brand new wheels, reportedly valued at a staggering Rs. 6 crore.

Captioning the post with characteristic wit, Kartik humorously remarked, "Humaari Range thodi si badh gayi (Our range just got bigger)," subtly hinting at the upgrade in his collection. Kabir Khan, the filmmaker collaborating with Kartik on the upcoming project Chandu Champion, couldn't resist commenting as he wrote, “Great choice Chandu”.

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by KARTIK AARYAN (@kartikaaryan)

View this post on Instagram

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

In a gesture of appreciation for his performance in the 2022 hit movie Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, Kartik Aaryan found himself the recipient of an extravagant present from T-Series chairperson and producer Bhushan Kumar. The generous gift? None other than a sleek McLaren GT. Taking to social media to share his excitement, Kartik posted pictures of his new wheels. “Chinese khaane ke liye nayi table gift mil gayi,” he wrote, translating to “Got a new table gift for Chinese food.” The actor then humorously added, “Mehnat ka phal meetha hota hai suna tha... Itna bada hoga nahi pata tha,” loosely translating to “I had heard that the fruit of hard work is sweet. I didn't know he will be this big.”

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by KARTIK AARYAN (@kartikaaryan)

Looking ahead, anticipation mounts for Kartik Aaryan's next endeavour in Kabir Khan's much-awaited sports saga, Chandu Champion. He also has Aashiqui 3, a Dharma Productions project and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 in the pipeline. ALSO READ: OG Manjulika Vidya Balan begins shooting for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 with Kartik Aaryan, Triptii Dimri and Anees Bazmee

Priyanka Chopra on Thursday night returned to Mumbai. She was accompanied by her adorable daughter, Malti Marie Chopra Jonas. The much-anticipated homecoming was teased by the Citadel star who took to her Instagram stories to share the news.

Draped in an effortlessly chic black ensemble complemented by a stylish beach hat, Priyanka radiated elegance and grace as she strode through the Mumbai airport. The paparazzi captured Priyanka's infectious smile and palpable excitement at returning to her homeland. By her side, Malti Marie looked adorable in a green top and pants ensemble. Malti waved gleefully to the paparazzi.

View this post on Instagram

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

Reportedly, Priyanka Chopra is slated to grace a Bulgari event in Mumbai. As a global brand ambassador for the luxury jewellery brand, Priyanka joins the ranks of esteemed personalities such as Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, and Lisa from BLACKPINK.

Meanwhile, on the work front, Priyanka Chopra has an array of projects in the pipeline – Ending Things with Anthony Mackie, Heads of State with John Cena and Idris Elba and The Bluff with The Boys actor Karl Urban. ALSO READ: Priyanka Chopra’s cousin Meera Chopra and businessman Rakshit Kejriwal tie the knot in Jaipur; see first photos

Aamir Khan stirred up a whirlwind of excitement among fans as he dropped a hint about the much-anticipated sequel to the beloved comedy classic, Andaz Apna Apna. In a recent conversation, Khan provided a hint into the potential revival of the cult favourite, revealing that filmmaker Rajkumar Santoshi is actively immersed in crafting the sequel.

During an engaging live interaction session, the superstar coyly hinted at the possibility of the iconic duo's return, stating, “Filmmaker Rajkumar Santoshi is working on the script of Andaz Apna Apna 2.”

Interestingly, Aamir Khan is producing Lahore 1947 which is being helmed by Rajkumar Santoshi, starring Sunny Deol in the lead.

Meanwhile, Aamir Khan will next star in Sitaare Zameen Par, the Hindi remake of the Spanish film Campeones. ALSO READ: Aamir Khan celebrates 59th birthday with Laapataa Ladies team; says “Agar mujhe gift dena hai, toh iss film ki ek ticket le lijiye”

Producer-director Balwant Singh Janjua made a lovely original, engaging and genuinely funny rom-com about a girl, who cannot find a groom on account of her dark complexion.

The lovely Tera Kya Hoga Lovely went unnoticed with most moviegoers unaware of its existence.

Why wasn’t the film marketed properly? Said Janjua sadly, “This is the question I want to ask Sony Pictures. Such a big studio and when they heard the narration, they were so happy and I finished the film in just 41 days and that too during COVID.”

But then COVID went on and Janjua’s film was lost in the crisis. “Sony Pictures were just sitting on it. They tried to sell the film. But could not as the team was incompetent. They did Ormax also and there was an outstanding response. Our film got selected in Goa film Festival also where two hundred people watched and it was great response. Even then, they (Sony Pictures) didn’t have the confidence in my film,” he said.

On top of it all, there were administrative changes at Sony Pictures. Janjua said, “In the interim, the CEO left, so they didn’t know what to do. Everything was stopped and all the decisions were taken by the LA team, which doesn’t have any clue about the Indian market and the Indian audience so it got delayed and delayed and delayed….”

As an independent producer-director it is very difficult for Janjua to make the films he believes in. “As a filmmaker, it’s very frustrating that you write and you pitch your idea to a big studio, make the film with the best of intentions. But see what happened! If you can’t expect support from such a big studio like Sony Columbia Pictures, then as a maker you are helpless. But I’m very hopeful, sir. We made Tera Kya Hoga Lovely with the best of intentions,” he added.

Also Read: Tera Kya Hoga Lovely Trailer: This Ileana D’Cruz, Randeep Hooda starrer is a quirky take on color discrimination and dowry system

Mrunal Thakur is set to participate in an upcoming panel discussion titled Human Cost of Conflict Related Sexual Violence, scheduled to take place on March 14, 2024 at the UN Headquarters, New York. Mrunal, known for her impactful roles in films such as Love Sonia, which sheds light on the grim reality of human trafficking, will be attending the panel virtually.

Mrunal Thakur is currently busy with promotional commitment for her upcoming film The Family Star across the country. Despite a busy schedule, Mrunal is keen on addressing these pressing global issues, particularly those related to the intersection of sexual violence and conflict. Expressing her anticipation for the event, Mrunal Thakur said, "Being a part of this panel discussion is a profound honor for me. Love Sonia was not just a film; it was a journey into the darkest corners of humanity, shedding light on the unimaginable suffering endured by victims of human trafficking. Through my role, I had the opportunity to delve deep into the complexities of this issue, and it has since become a cause that is incredibly close to my heart. Participating in this panel allows me to lend my voice to the collective effort of raising awareness and advocating for change.” She added, “It's an opportunity to amplify the voices of those who have been silenced and to stand in solidarity with survivors of conflict-related sexual violence. I am deeply grateful for this platform and eager to contribute to the important conversations that lie ahead."

Joining her on the panel will be distinguished speakers including Masha Efrosinina, Fawzia Koofi, Cohav Elkayam Levy, Meaza Gebremedhin, and Areig Elhagwill. The event promises to be a platform for robust dialogue and advocacy on a global scale. Speaking of the panel, it aims to explore the global context and impact of sexual violence in conflict zones, including its interlinkage with human trafficking. Thakur's involvement is key to the panel, considering the research she underwent to portray the harrowing experiences faced by victims of trafficking in Love Sonia.

Also Read: Mrunal Thakur and Vijay Deverakonda to commence final schedule of Family Star in Chennai

Ed Sheeran, who is currently in India, has been meeting several celebrities from the industry and he recently met the superstar Shah Rukh Khan as they spent some fun moments. The megastar too decided to take some time out and meet the singer-musician. This time around, they were also accompanied by none other than SRK’s close friend choreographer-filmmaker Farah Khan.

In a recent post shared by the man of the hour, Ed Sheeran, the musician is seen learning the signature pose of Shah Rukh Khan in a video. For the unversed, the romantic pose of SRK is the one where he is seen spreading his arms wide and the superstar is seen teaching the techniques to Sheeran to get the pose right. He posted it on his Instagram handle along with a caption that read, “This is the Shape of Us. Spreading love together….” Farah Khan also dropped a comment indicating that she directed the clip as she added, “If this was the last thing I directed i ll die happy”

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Ed Sheeran (@teddysphotos)

She also posted the same clip on her social media handle and said, “When u get to direct Ed sheeran & Shahrukh khan u get? …. #SherKhan of course”. Apart from this, Farah also posted another photo where she is seen spending time with the pop-music artist and she wrote, “Relax mode with the loveliest guy ever..”

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Farah Khan Kunder (@farahkhankunder)

Earlier this week, Ed Sheeran also met popular actor Ayushmann Khurrana and the renowned singer Armaan Malik. While Ayushmann hosted an evening of traditional Indian cuisines to give a taste of Indian culture to the pop music artist, Armaan and Sheeran had a musical collaboration that definitely got their fans excited.

Ed Sheeran is currently in India for the last leg of his musical tour in Europe and Asia, and is expected to perform at the Mahalaxmi Race Course in South Mumbai on March 16.

Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan dedicates Best Actor for Jawan to his kids Aryan, Suhana and AbRam in roaring speech: “Jab tak tumhara baap zinda hai…”

Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Shri Anurag Singh Thakur launched the first season of Swaraj on OTT platform Amazon Prime, in Mumbai today. Speaking on the occasion, Shri Thakur said, “Today is a moment of pride for us and a true tribute to all those unsung great heroes of our independence who sacrificed everything for the country."

He informed that this serial was commissioned by taking inspiration from the “Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav” national campaign of the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi. He said that this serial, launched in August 2022, is a story of bravery in India's freedom struggle about which very few people know. "These are the wars which got lost somewhere in the pages of history", said the Union I & B Minister. Swaraj is the story of these countless unsung heroes and their indomitable courage, he added.

Elaborating on the series, Shri Thakur said that this series of 75 episodes covers unsung heroes of freedom struggle from all corners of our country. It helps us understand the meaning, origins and consequences of colonialism, said the Minister. He further said, In the past, the history of India was written by foreign invaders and rulers according to their political, ideological and economic interests. In this landmark serial, historical events are presented in a broader context to illustrate the concept of Swaraj, he stated. He added that this will help the national and international audience to understand the spirit of the country and our 500-year-long relentless struggle to gain independence from colonial rulers.

Speaking further on the importance of being proud of one’s own rich history, Shri Thakur said, those who do not take pride in their rich historical legacy can never create a great future. If we want to create a great future for the country, then we will have to instil pride in the young generation about our great history, he added. The Union I & B Minister reiterated that over the next 25 years of Amrit Kaal, under the able leadership of PM Narendra Modi, we will move forward at a greater pace in the direction of 'Viksit Bharat'.

Reflecting on the role of Prasar Bharati in making this series, the Minister appreciated the role being played by Doordarshan and Akashvani in mobilizing and channelizing the emotions and spirit of the citizens in the right direction from time to time through various memorable programs.

The Minister informed the gathering about a new 52-episode serial Sardar: The Game Changer which was launched by Doordarshan on March 10, 2024, to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

Union I & B Minister stated that the Government is focused on being an enabler to help the Media & Entertainment sector thrive and achieve greater heights on an international scale. He highlighted initiatives like Ease of Doing Business for the film industry, schemes like "Single window clearance" for film shooting In India and various other incentives. He urged all to create good content in Indian languages and stated that language is not a barrier for a global audience in today's hyperconnected world. He added that regional Indian cinema has transcended geographies and reached out to a global audience based on good content. He urged the M&E sector stakeholders to make India the 'Content Hub of the World'.

Also addressing the audience on the occasion, Shri Sushant Sreeram, Country Director, Prime Video, India stated, "This endeavour echoes the essence of our commitment to showcasing and celebrating India’s unique culture and history, and strengthening India's creative ecosystem, as envisioned in the Letter of Engagement signed between Amazon India and Ministry of Information and Broadcasting last year".

The Producer of Swaraj, Abhimanyu Singh stated that the serial shows the journey of India from the arrival of Vasco Da Gama in 1498 to the attainment of independence in 1947. "When Vasco Da Gama entered India, our country was the richest country at that time. India's contribution to world GDP was around 24%. But, after the beginning of the rule of the East India Company, India's struggle started. However, the sacrifice of our freedom fighters brought us independence”, he said.

A colourful programme organized on the occasion showcased India's rich art and culture and varied dance forms. A scintillating performance on a musical narrative depicted the indomitable spirit of millions of ordinary Indians who fought for the freedom of the motherland over the last five centuries.

The telecast of the serial Swaraj began on August 14, 2022, in Hindi on DD National and subsequently in nine regional languages (Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Gujarati, Bengali, Odia, and Assamese) on the regional networks of Doordarshan. Swaraj program was entrusted to Contiloe Pictures production house, famous for professionally researched and high-quality content, which is also suitable for OTT platforms. The program Swaraj is now available on Amazon Prime Video. The first season will consist of 10 episodes and will also be available in 7 regional languages – Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Bengali and Gujarati. Subtitles have also been made available in Hindi and English language for the convenience of the viewers.

Also Read: Bhumi Pednekar on Women’s Reservation Bill: “The representation will happen now, there is hope”

Film producer Boney Kapoor recently held discussions with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Lucknow, marking a significant step forward in the establishment of a new film city in Noida. The proposed venture, a collaboration between Boney’s Bayview Projects and real estate firm Bhutani Group, aims to capitalise on the burgeoning opportunities in the entertainment industry.

During the meeting, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath presented Boney Kapoor with the 'Letter of Award', granting him the necessary approvals to proceed with the development of the film city near the upcoming Noida International Airport. Kapoor expressed gratitude for the opportunity and reiterated his commitment to fulfilling the Chief Minister's vision for the project.

In a statement before the meeting, Boney Kapoor expressed his pride in securing the tender to develop the international film studio in Noida, Uttar Pradesh. He pledged to uphold the highest standards and ensure the success of the venture. He also discussed the importance of meeting the expectations of all stakeholders involved.

The proposed film city aims to provide a comprehensive suite of services to filmmakers, including state-of-the-art production facilities and post-production resources. The filmmaker envisions the studio as a one-stop destination for filmmakers worldwide, where they can bring their scripts to life with ease and efficiency.

Highlighting the significance of Uttar Pradesh as a filmmaking hub, Boney Kapoor expressed his commitment to making the state a premier destination for international-level film production. He praised the transparent bidding process initiated by the UP government while speaking about its role in fostering a conducive environment for investment and growth in the entertainment sector.

Also Read: Boney Kapoor on Ajay Devgn-starrer Maidaan being delayed for five years due to Mumbai Cyclone, COVID-19: “We had our sets standing in Madh for around three and a half years”

Actress Meera Chopra, who is also cousin of global icon Priyanka Chopra, exchanged vows with businessman Rakshit Kejriwal in a picturesque ceremony held in Jaipur on Tuesday. The newlyweds radiated sheer happiness as they embarked on their marital journey, with Meera delighting fans by sharing glimpses of their special day on Instagram.

The enchanting photographs capture the essence of their union, as Meera and Rakshit embraced the joy of their wedding amidst a shower of petals. In particular, the images from the varmala ceremony showcase Meera resplendent in a vibrant red Sabyasachi bridal attire, while Rakshit complemented her in a sophisticated white sherwani.

Accompanying the captivating visuals was a heartfelt note from Meera, expressing her profound happiness and anticipation for a lifetime of shared moments. She wrote, “Forever now in happiness, fights, laughter, tears and lifetime of memories ♥️Har Janam Tere Sath #MeRa.”

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Meera Chopra (@meerachopra)

Celebratory messages poured in from well-wishers, with actor Barkha Sengupta extending her congratulations to the newlyweds, wishing them love and happiness in their journey ahead.

Meera Chopra shares familial ties with renowned stars Priyanka Chopra and Parineeti Chopra. However, despite their shared lineage, neither Priyanka nor Parineeti were present at Meera's wedding.

Also Read: Priyanka Chopra’s cousin Meera Chopra set to get married on March 11-12 in Jaipur

Director Pa. Ranjith, known for his films like Kaala and Sarpatta Parambarai, has set his sights on Bollywood. In a recent interview with Hindustan Times, Ranjith confirmed his upcoming directorial venture in Hindi cinema.

While details regarding the project remain under wraps, Ranjith did clarify rumours surrounding the film's lead actor. "I am doing a film in Hindi, but the casting process for the protagonist is still underway. An official announcement will be made at the opportune moment," he stated.

This news comes after much anticipation following the nationwide success of Kaala. The film sparked important conversations and established Ranjith's strong voice in Indian cinema. Previously, a biopic on tribal independence activist Birsa Munda was slated to be Ranjith's next project. However, the film's development seems to be on hold as he focuses on other endeavours.

Meanwhile, Ranjith's production house, Neelam Studios, is all set to support director Mari Selvaraj's (known for Pariyerum Perumal) upcoming film. This project stars Dhruv Vikram and Anupama Parameswaran in the lead roles.

Ranjith's directorial prowess has garnered him national recognition, especially after the premiere of Sarpatta Parambarai on Amazon Prime Video. Currently, he is completing his historical drama titled Thangalaan, featuring Vikram, Malavika Mohanan, Parvathy, and Pasupathi. Set in the pre-independence era, the film delves into the struggles of tribal communities against colonial oppression in the gold mines. 

Also Read: Anisha Padukone shares her excitement about sister Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh becoming parents; says, “I want to say Ranveer will spoil the baby”

It’s that time of the year again! On May 2, 2024, Bollywood's most prestigious style extravaganza, the ‘Bollywood Hungama Style Icons’ Awards returns with even more grandeur and sophistication, building upon the tremendous success of our inaugural event in 2023.

This year's ceremony promises to be an all-day affair, unlike anything seen before! Kicking off with insightful panel discussions in the first half, industry experts and fashion aficionados shall delve into latest trends that shapes Indians’ style across the globe, thanks to inspirations from the showbiz world, especially Bollywood.

After back-to-back engaging discussions, Bollywood Hungama and its partners shall put up a dazzling award show at a glittering awards night.

Honouring the trailblazers, trendsetters, and style mavens who have redefined fashion in Bollywood, the awards night will be a spectacle to behold.

Watch this space for updates on celebrity attendees, red carpet moments, and the winners of the most coveted style awards in the industry.

Last year, the inaugural event of the Bollywood Hungama Style Icons Awards witnessed luminaries like Ajay Devgn, Rohit Shetty, Kartik Aaryan, Anushka Sharma, Kriti Sanon, Bobby Deol, Rajkummar Rao, Arjun Kapoor, Malaika Arora, and many more in attendance. Following a similar trend, this year's awards function will continue to celebrate achievers from diverse walks of life, including Television, Sports, Business, Fashion, OTT, Culinary World, Regional Cinema, and beyond.

Join us as we celebrate the trendsetters, visionaries, and true icons of style in Bollywood and beyond, setting new standards and inspiring generations to come.

Save the date, as May 2, 2024 is going to be filled with top glamour, elegance, and several unforgettable moments!

‘Bollywood Hungama Style Icons’ season 2 shall be curated, scripted and directed by Cinema Waale Film & Television Productions LLP, and produced by Across Media Solutions.

Also Read: Bollywood Hungama launches the official website of the Bollywood Hungama Style Icons Awards 2023

Salman Khan kicked off the new season of Celebrity Cricket League in Dubai last month to support his brother Sohail Khan’s Mumbai Heroes. In a recent interaction, the actor said that his cricketing days are long over when asked if he will play these events.

Salman Khan said, “Woh mera cricket khelne ka time chala gaya hai. Agar main cricket khel raha hota toh main aaj commentary bhi nahi de raha hota. Woh bhi umar chali gayi. Achha kar raha hoon aap logo ki dua se industry mein. Industry mein bahut achha kar raha hoon and it’s all because of you (My time for playing cricket has passed. If I were still playing cricket, I wouldn’t even be doing commentary today. That time has also passed. I am doing well in the industry, thanks to your blessings. I am doing very well in the industry, and it’s all because of you). Thank you to my audience and my fans.”

In a conversation with the match host, Salman said, “I am glad that CCL continued for so many years. We had no idea that it would turn out like that when we did the first season. Back then the Mumbai team used to take it more as a fun activity but since the beginning south industry has always been more competitive. I think that also motivated the other teams to raise their level and perform better. I see all these boys working so hard, not just Mumbai Heroes but also other teams, and that makes me so proud of the film fraternity.” ALSO READ: Sajid Nadiadwala’s Masterstroke: Salman Khan & AR Murugadoss team up for Kick 2 spectacle; to hit theatres Eid 2025

YRF has clearly cracked the new format of shooting for feature films and is the only production house that's making optimum utilization of technology. The latest example is War 2, which features Hrithik Roshan and Jr. NTR in lead roles. The film went on floors in November last year and the director, Ayan Mukerji has already shot for two overseas schedules without the presence of leads. "It's the most modern technology where outdoor shoots in action space are done with body doubles and the makers then swap the faces using VFX," a source told Bollywood Hungama.

Hrithik started shooting for the film at YRF in Mumbai on March 7. "He is shooting for his entry sequence and it's an action-packed stint. Hrithik has allotted merely 55 to 60 days for War 2 and most of the film will be shot at studios in Mumbai. Interestingly, it will be a wrap for Hrithik on War 2 by June 2024, and it's among those films which he will conclude in record time," the source told us further.

Jr. NTR on the other hand starts his journey on War 2 from April and it will be a wrap for him by the end of July. "Much like Hrithik, Jr. NTR too has allotted 60 days to shoot for War, which includes 25 to 30 days of combination shoot. YRF has mastered the art of mounting big films efficiently - as this template neither requires more days of shoot from actors nor does it add on to the budget," the source shared.

With the availability of technology, the makers can shoot most films in the studio set up and avoid leaks from on-ground locations. In recent times, only Bade Miyan Chote Miyan has not used the technology as the makers went real with real action sequences on the ground performed by the leading pair.

Also Read: Hrithik Roshan to kickstart War 2 filming on March 7 with Ben Jasper: Report

Shah Rukh Khan stole the limelight at the Zee Cine Awards 2024 with his films Jawan and Pathaan clinching major awards. The event, held on Sunday evening, saw a star-studded gathering from the Bollywood fraternity, with luminaries like Kriti Sanon, Sunny Deol, Kartik Aryan, Shahid Kapoor, Ayushmann Khurrana, Aparshakti Khurana, Pooja Chopra, Shalini Pandey, Atlee Kumar, Ankita Lokhande, Randeep Hooda, and Medha Shankr among others gracing the occasion.

The Zee Cine Awards serves as a platform to honor excellence in Indian cinema, celebrating the contributions of actors, filmmakers, and technicians who have made remarkable strides in the industry. Check out the winners list.

Best Actor Shah Rukh Khan - Jawan

Performer of the Year (Male) Kartik Aaryan

Best Story Atlee – Jawan

Best VFX Red Chillies Entertainment – Jawan

Best Action Spiro Razatos, Anal Arasu, Craig Macrae and team – Jawan

Best Choreography Bosco Martis for ‘Jhoome Jo Pathaan’ – Pathaan

Best Playback Singer (Male) Arijit Singh for ‘Jhoome Jo Pathaan’ – Pathaan

Best Playback Singer (Female) Shilpa Rao for ‘Besharam Rang’ – Pathaan

Best Lyrics Kumaar for ‘Chaleya’ – Pathaan

Best Background Music and Best Music Director Anirudh Ravichander – Jawan

Best Dialogue Sumit Arora – Jawan

Best Costume Design Manish Malhotra – Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahaani

Shah Rukh Khan once again proved why he is hailed as the ultimate showman of Indian cinema. With his electrifying performances and charming persona, he captivated audiences at two high-profile events recently. At the Zee Cine Awards 2024 on Sunday, Shah Rukh Khan set the stage on fire with his dynamic presence. His performance was nothing short of mesmerizing, as he enthralled the audience with a captivating mash up of songs from his iconic movies, including ‘Mohabbatein’, ‘Chaiyya Chaiyya’, ‘Chaleya’, ‘Jhoome Jo Pathaan’, and ‘Not Ramaiya Vastavaiya’.

Notably, Shah Rukh Khan also showcased his comedic prowess by reenacting memorable dialogues with Sunil Grover, reminiscent of his famous moments from Om Shanti Om and Mohabbatein.

"King Khan captivates with his enchanting performance on 'Chaleya' - spreading love through his mesmerizing moves." ❤️????@iamsrk @ZeeCineAwards #ShahRukhKhan #ZeeCineAwards2024 #Chaleya #SRK pic.twitter.com/1AR984urGE — Shah Rukh Khan Universe Fan Club (@SRKUniverse) March 10, 2024

SRK commands the stage with his magnetic energy & fierce moves on 'Zinda Banda' leaving the audience spellbound at ZEE Cine Awards 2024! ????@iamsrk @ZeeCineAwards #ShahRukhKhan #ZeeCineAwards2024 #Jawan #ZindaBanda #SRK pic.twitter.com/M9S9aswJ1l — Shah Rukh Khan Universe Fan Club (@SRKUniverse) March 10, 2024

Pathaan's lively performance elevates the party at ZEE Cine Awards 2024 to the next level! ????????@iamsrk @ZeeCineAwards#ShahRukhKhan #SRK #ZeeCineAwards2024 #Pathaan #JhoomeJoPathaan pic.twitter.com/VMOsfinleq — Shah Rukh Khan Universe Fan Club (@SRKUniverse) March 10, 2024

And that's how KING KHAN Chaleya into our hearts with his charismatic performance at ZEE Cine Awards 2024! ❤️????@iamsrk @ZeeCineAwards#ShahRukhKhan #SRK #ZeeCineAwards2024 #Jawan #Chaleya pic.twitter.com/kXfbOgYugm — Shah Rukh Khan Universe Fan Club (@SRKUniverse) March 10, 2024

Stepping onto the red carpet, Shah Rukh Khan exuded sophistication in a tailored black suit, opting for a daring no-shirt look that added an element of intrigue. With a diamond brooch adorning his lapel and stylish tinted blue sunglasses, he commanded attention as he graciously posed for the paparazzi.

View this post on Instagram

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

View this post on Instagram

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

During the awards ceremony, Shah Rukh Khan's film Jawan received accolades, including the Best Actor award. In his acceptance speech, he graciously acknowledged the talent and success of his fellow colleagues in the Bollywood industry, reflecting his humility and respect for his peers.

Congratulations @iamsrk the King of acting for winning best actor award 2023 for Jawan! ❤️????@iamsrk @ZeeCineAwards#ShahRukhKhan #SRK #ZeeCineAwards2024#Jawan #BestActorAward #ShahRukhKhanAtZCA pic.twitter.com/95BItOrgJe — Shah Rukh Khan Universe Fan Club (@SRKUniverse) March 10, 2024

On the professional front, Shah Rukh Khan's latest film venture, Dunki, directed by Rajkumar Hirani and featuring Taapsee Pannu and Vicky Kaushal, enjoyed success at the box office. He will next star in Sujoy Ghosh’s King starring Suhana Khan. ALSO READ: Aamir Khan asked to make films like Shah Rukh Khan starrer Pathaan by a fan, here’s how he responds

The Oscars' In Memoriam segment on Sunday night on March 10 (Monday morning for India), paid tribute to a talent that left an indelible mark on the world of cinema at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. Among the luminaries remembered, Indian art director and producer Nitin Desai was honoured alongside icons like Tina Turner and Matthew Perry. Desai's passing, at the age of 57, was a tragic loss for the film industry, as he had contributed significantly to some of Bollywood's most memorable works.

Nitin Desai had won four National Awards for Best Art Direction. He was best known for his fruitful collaboration with director Sanjay Leela Bhansali, during which he crafted stunning sets that became integral to the visual storytelling of films such as Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Bajirao Mastani. Beyond his partnership with Bhansali, Desai lent his creative vision to a diverse array of filmmakers, including Rajkumar Hirani, Vidhu Vinod Chopra, and Ashutosh Gowariker.

"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good people to do nothing." The #Oscars In Memoriam segment opens with a tribute to Alexei Navalny. https://t.co/UNgGySGz3r pic.twitter.com/38EFyQqttJ

— Variety (@Variety) March 11, 2024

His extensive filmography boasts credits in beloved movies like Once Upon a Time in Mumbai, Dostana, Lage Raho Munna Bhai, Munna Bhai MBBS, Mission Kashmir, Josh, and Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha. Desai's final cinematic endeavour was the 2019 war epic drama Panipat, directed by Ashutosh Gowariker.

In August 2023, art director Nitin Desai allegedly died by suicide at ND Studio in Karjat. The 57-year-old artist had been facing financial woes, struggling to repay a staggering Rs 252-crore loan, leading to a bankruptcy court admitting an insolvency petition against his company, ND's Art World Pvt Ltd, according to a report by PTI. ALSO READ: Nitin Desai’s last rites to be held at ND Studios after his family arrives from the US

The 13 winners of the fast-track talent round at Miss World 2024 walked the ramp along with the cast of Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar - Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Sanjeeda Shaikh and Sharmin Segal. The 20 beautiful women walked in the costumes from the first song titled ‘Sakal Ban’ from Heeramandi. The contestants of Miss World got to experience the world of Sanjay Leela Bhansali through art, music and costumes. They experienced Indian culture and heritage and transported themselves to the world of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s storytelling.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali launched the first song from his music label Bhansali Music, 'Sakal Ban' for his maiden Netflix series Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar. Creating a phenomenon that had never been witnessed before, the song saw its grand launch on the global stage of Miss World 24’.

The leading ladies walked alongside the world’s most beautiful women on the first track of the show, from Bhansali Music. The cast walked the ramp live with the fast-track top 13 contestants of the pageant from across the globe. Aired in over 140 countries, the walk, and the song play out was truly a magnificent launch of the song. Seeing everyone dressed in the colour of Basant was a visual delight. With this Sanjay Leela Bhansali gave the Miss World an experience of India’s rich culture.

Springtime brings with it a sense of rejuvenation and celebration, and Bhansali chose to welcome this vibrant season with 'Sakal Ban’. This mesmerizing composition, sung by the talented Raja Hasan and adorned with the timeless lyrics of Amir Khusro, embodies the essence of traditional folk music while resonating with Bhansali's signature grandeur.

ALSO READ: Bhansali Music’s first song ‘Sakal Ban’ from Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Netflix show Heeramandi to have global launch at Miss World 2024 stage today

Filmmaker Vikas Bahl’s supernatural thriller Shaitaan exceeded expectations and proved all calculations wrong by amassing Rs. 15.21 crores at the India box office yesterday. The film, starring Ajay Devgn, R Madhavan, Jyothika and Janki Bodiwala, is all set to go past that number today (Saturday). Today’s number might just add more pleasant surprises for the makers as a lot of cinema halls and multiplexes in Mumbai have added midnight shows from today.

Late shows starting at 11:55 pm are seen aplenty all across Mumbai right now. There are also multiplexes like Cinepolis Andheri, Maison Inox BKC and MovieMax Mira Road that have included shows as late as 11:59 pm. On top of that, a cursory glance at the online ticket booking website shows that these shows are filling fast. In fact, at Cinepolis Viviana Mall, Thane there are two shows starting at 11:59 pm and, interestingly, both are seeing rapid bookings.

These scenes clearly show that Shaitaan, which is the official Hindi remake of the Gujarati movie Vash, has been accepted by the audience at large. Needless to say, one can expect similar scenes tomorrow as well.

Shaitaan is produced by Ajay Devgn Ffilms, Jio Studios and Panorama Studios.

Also Read: Shaitaan Box Office Estimate Day 2: Spellbinds the box office with a 20% growth; Ajay Devgn film collects Rs. 18.25 crores on Saturday

Actress Ananya Panday celebrated International Women's Day in a meaningful way by visiting the Committed Communities Development Trust (CCDT) NGO in Bandra, Mumbai. At CCDT, Panday reiterated her commitment to equal opportunities for all children, particularly girls, emphasizing the importance of realizing and working towards their dreams.

Expressing her thoughts on the visit, Panday shared, "The kids from CCDT are very close to my heart! I had visited CCDT before and thought why not do something special for the girls on women's day. Making these young girls realize and work towards their dreams, and watch their faces light up with excitement was so gratifying! It was an amazing experience! Thank you CCDT!"

CCDT, known for its dedication to advancing the national and state agenda of equal opportunities for all children and their families, focuses on safeguarding their rights to live with dignity. During the visit, a special activity titled #DreamsTakeFlight was organized, wherein 10 girls were supported. As part of this initiative, the girls were provided with "Dream Sheets" to fill out, allowing them to articulate their dreams and goals for the future.

The activity also included discussions on how these dreams could be transformed into reality. Ananya Panday, along with the girls' teachers, engaged with the participants, offering insights and encouragement. Notably, one girl expressed her aspiration to learn different languages to aid her pursuit of a career in business management, while another girl expressed her desire to acquire computer skills and explore various applications.

In a generous gesture towards realizing these dreams, a substantial donation of Rs. 16 lakhs was made, serving as a one-time investment in the girls' futures. This support reflects a tangible step towards empowering young girls to pursue their ambitions and overcome barriers. ALSO READ: Ananya Panday announces Prime Videos young-adult series Big Girls Don’t Cry

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's debut in the world of web series with Heeramandi is all set to launch on a global podium. The first song from the web show, titled 'Sakal Ban', will be launched on the global stage of Miss World 2024 today on March 9.

This song will also be the first track from Bhansali's new music label, Bhansali Music. 'Sakal Ban' will be a traditional song that will feature all the leading ladies of Heeramandi, Manisha Koirala, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sonakshi Sinha, Sharmin Segal, Richa Chadha, and Sanjeeda Shaikh.

Sharing details about the song, a source said, “The first song of Bhansali Music, 'Sakal Ban' which also marks the first song of Bhansali's Heeramandi will be launched on a global platform of Miss World. For the first time (we) will see a song having a world stage launch on the prestigious podium of Miss World.”

Moreover, Sanjay Leela Bhansali is set to enthrall audiences once again with his eagerly awaited web series debut, Heeramandi. The filmmaker recently launched first solo posters of the leading ladies Manisha Koirala, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sonakshi Sinha, Sharmin Segal, Richa Chadha and Sanjeeda Shaikh.

As Bollywood Hungama recently reported, there are chances that Heeramandi might start streaming on Netflix from next month. There has been a high amount of anticipation for Bhansali’s entry into the web world.

Also Read: Heeramandi actress Sanjeeda Shaikh reveals ‘being one of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s leading ladies is a big deal’ for her

In 2022, Aryan Khan, the son of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, launched his luxury streetwear brand D’yavol X whose advertisement featured his superstar father Shah Rukh Khan. Now, in the latest campaign, he brings together his father and his sister Suhana Khan for a new advertisement.

A new promo was launched on Friday with Shah Rukh Khan and his daughter Suhana Khan showcasing the upcoming clothing line in collaboration with Disney, launching on March 17. “The collab you didn’t know you needed… BUT every good story deserves a sequel,” SRK captioned the post.

“On the day dedicated to women… its the most awesome to share screen with my daughter! And of course the elder son did his job too… love you both,” SRK wrote in the comments section.

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk)

In a recent interview with GQ India, Aryan Khan talked about experiencing his father's work ethic first-hand during the first ad shoot for the clothing line. “It’s always a pleasure and a learning experience. People talk about his work ethic, but experiencing it first-hand was really exciting. He has a wealth of knowledge, which makes my job easier,” he said.

Talking about his brand, Aryan said that Shah Rukh Khan brings sanity and maturity to his edgy brand. He said, “Some things that would take me some time to wrap my head around were seamless for him. Our brand is edgy, so he’s around to keep some semblance of sanity and respectability, otherwise, there could be too much madness. Because we are an age-agnostic brand, I think we have an interesting balance: I have a more contemporary way of thinking; my father brings a dose of maturity into it. Having perspectives from both ends allows the brand to align with our collective vision as well, which is to appeal and cater to everyone, from a 10-year-old to a 70-year-old.”

Meanwhile, Aryan Khan is all set to debut as a director in Stardom, produced by Red Chillies Entertainment. He is poised to step into the director's chair with his debut project, a six-episode series. It promises to be a star-studded affair with cameo appearances from some of Bollywood's biggest names, including Shah Rukh Khan himself, along with Ranbir Kapoor, Ranveer Singh, Karan Johar, and Bobby Deol. Headlining the series is Lakshya Lalwani, who is set to portray a central role in this fictionalized narrative offering viewers a glimpse into the inner workings of the Hindi film industry. ALSO READ: Aryan Khan on his directorial debut with Stardom: “I have to look into every detail, every shot and every angle”

The highly anticipated film Singham Again, starring Ajay Devgn and directed by Rohit Shetty, is nearing completion as the team wrapped up filming some crucial action scenes. Recently, Shetty filmed an intense fight sequence on the streets of Byculla in Mumbai, turning the bustling area into a makeshift battlefield. With Devgn taking on a gang of villains, the scene required a significant crowd presence. To minimize disruptions, the unit opted to shoot at night, ensuring smooth filming without inconveniencing the residents.

According to a report in Mid-day, a source revealed, “Ajay, who reprises his role of Bajirao Singham, shot through the night. He was joined by Shweta Tiwari and Dayanand Shetty, both of whom play cops in the entertainer. After a part of the sequence was filmed, the shoot moved to Richardson & Cruddas Mill in the vicinity.”

Singham Again also stars Kareena Kapoor Khan, Tiger Shroff and Arjun Kapoor. It also has special appearances of Akshay Kumar, Deepika Padukone, and Ranveer Singh. The makers plan to release the movie during the Independence Day 2024 weekend. ALSO READ: Boney Kapoor on Ajay Devgn-starrer Maidaan being delayed for five years due to Mumbai Cyclone, COVID-19: “We had our sets standing in Madh for around three and a half years”

The first four episodes of the web series Showtime dropped today on Disney+ Hotstar. The Karan Johar-produced show has caught attention since it attempts to show the dark secrets of the Bollywood film industry. While the show delivers on this front, it also has several other surprises. Bollywood Hungama has learned that the show boasts of several cameos by prominent members of the film industry. In fact, it could be the highest ever for a Hindi web series.

Some of the prominent actors who have a special appearance in Showtime are Janhvi Kapoor, Mrunal Thakur, Neha Dhupia and Angad Bedi. Then, veteran actor Dharmendra makes his web debut-of-sorts with a special appearance in this show. And that’s not all. Reputed filmmakers like Hansal Mehta, Gurmmeet Singh of Mirzapur fame, Dangal (2016) and Chhichhore (2019) director Nitesh Tiwari and Monica O My Darling (2022) director Vasan Bala also appear in crucial scenes. Interestingly, Vasan is directing Karan’s upcoming film, Jigra, starring Alia Bhatt. Reputed costume designer Manish Malhotra is also seen in a scene.

The makers also go one step ahead. For a funeral scene, footage of Neetu Kapoor, Rakesh Roshan, Jeetendra and Prem Chopra from an actual final journey of a real-life celebrity has been neatly woven into the narrative. Another unique initiative is that a film depicted during the course of the story is Screw Dheela, starring John Abraham and Tamannaah Bhatia. In 2022, Karan Johar launched a film of this name, starring Tiger Shroff. It was put on the backburner due to pandemic-related factors.

Showtime stars Emraan Hashmi, Mahima Makwana, Rajeev Khandelwal, Mouni Roy and Shriya Saran in lead roles with Naseeruddin Shah in a supporting role. It is the story of the son of a famous producer, who tries to run the family-owned studio on his own terms, causing friction between the two. However, what adds to the son’s dilemma is when an outsider springs out of nowhere and takes on him.

Also Read: Showtime actor Rajeev Khandelwal recalls meeting Shah Rukh Khan 20 years ago: “He walked up to me, introduced himself and spoke about girls liking me. He and Karan Johar then blessed me”

The trailer of Maidaan starring Ajay Devgn was unveiled on Thursday, March 7 in Mumbai. The launch saw the presence of the entire cast and crew, who were delighted over the release of the film after five years delay. Maidaan tells the true story of an unknown hero, Syed Abdul Rahim, who brought pride to India through football. The film takes you on a journey of how the coach played by Ajay Devgn created history and records for India. His achievements are unmatched even 60 years later in the world's most-played sport, football.

Expressing happiness over Shaitaan releasing in theatres after five years’ delay, Boney said, “We were in the midst of a crisis which the entire world was facing. During the lockdown, we had our sets standing in Madh (an area in Mumbai) for around three and a half years. When we would get a window to shoot, we had all the players and technicians coming from all over the world. They would land here, shoot a match for maybe eight-ten days and there would be a lockdown again. This happened to us thrice.”

Maidaan makers also suffered losses due to the Mumbai Cyclone in 2019 which led to the destruction of their sets. Boney Kapoor is grateful that the team and crew members did not lose patience at all and were eager to complete the film. “In all this, it was not only about hard work, but also about having patience. As a team we didn’t lose patience and I am glad we didn’t,” he said.

Talking about the delay, director Amit Ravindernath Sharma said, “It was frustrating. You prepare and shooting does not happen, it was natural to be frustrated. When the shooting happened, we used to enjoy it and that’s how we completed the whole thing.”

Based on a true story, Maidaan is directed by Amit Ravindernath Sharma of Badhaai Ho fame, and also features Priyamani, Gajraj Rao, and the well-known Bengali actor Rudranil Ghosh.

Produced by Zee Studios, Boney Kapoor, Arunava Joy Sengupta and Akash Chawla, the screenplay and dialogues are written by Saiwyn Quadras and Ritesh Shah respectively, music is by AR Rahman and lyrics by Manoj Muntashir Shukla. The film is all set to release worldwide in theatres on Eid, 2024 also in IMAX. ALSO READ: Maidaan Trailer: Ajay Devgn plays unsung hero Syed Abdul Rahim who revolutionized Indian football as he coaches young team for Asian Games, watch

Actress Sara Ali Khan, who is gearing up for the releases of her two upcoming films Ae Watan Mere Watan and Murder Mubarak, encountered a minor setback amidst her busy promotional schedule. The incident occurred on Wednesday in Mumbai, where the actress suffered a minor burn injury.

Taking to her Instagram account on the same day, Sara shared a video addressing the injury while maintaining her upbeat spirit. In the video, Sara can be seen dressed in athleisure attire, as she was getting ready in her vanity van. She is seen applying ointment to her belly to alleviate the discomfort from the burn. Before delving into her signature shayari mode to discuss her injury, Sara's staff member Dharna cautions that the matter is no laughing issue but later joins in the poetic banter. In the video, Sara humorously remarks, "Namaste Darshakon, Jab aap kar rahe ho 2 filmon ka promotion (When you are doing promotion of two films), there is bound to be some commotion."

Sara further said, “Ab kya karein jal gaya mera pet, ho gayi main late (what to do now, my belly is burnt, and I’ve got late), everybody has to wait.” In the caption, she wrote, “Welcome to Sara ka Sara Radio. Aaj ki taaza khabbar I got burnt. Kya Kare lesson is learned. What can we say - bad bad luck. But kam se kam it’s not Murder Mubarak.”

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Sara Ali Khan (@saraalikhan95)

Meanwhile, directed by Kannan Iyer, Ae Watan Mere Watan is written by  Darab Farooqui and Iyer and stars Sara Ali Khan alongside Sachin Khedekar, Abhay Verma, Sparsh Shrivastav, Alexx O' Nell, and Anand Tiwari in pivotal roles and a special guest appearance by Emraan Hashmi. The movie releasing on March 21 on Prime Video, is a Dharmatic Entertainment production and is produced by Karan Johar, Apoorva Mehta, and Somen Mishra.

On the other hand, produced by Dinesh Vijan of Maddock Films, and directed by Homi Adajania, Murder Mubarak boasts an exceptional ensemble cast including Sara Ali Khan, Pankaj Tripathi, Vijay Varma, Dimple Kapadia, Karisma Kapoor, Sanjay Kapoor, Tisca Chopra, Suhail Nayyar and Aashim Gulati. The film will arrive on Netflix on March 15, 2024. ALSO READ: “Sara Ali Khan has a lot of Saif Ali Khan’s wittiness,” says Murder Mubarak director Homi Adajania

Sriram Raghavan, the man behind acclaimed films like Andhadhun and Badlapur, directed Merry Christmas. Starring Katrina Kaif and Vijay Sethupathi, this thriller-drama hit theatres on January 12, 2024, enthralling audiences with its gripping narrative and stellar performances. Now, fans worldwide eagerly anticipate its arrival on the streaming platform Netflix on March 8, 2024.

What sets Merry Christmas apart is its bilingual presentation. Shot in both Hindi and Tamil languages, the film caters to a diverse audience, offering an immersive experience in two languages. In the Hindi version, alongside Katrina Kaif and Vijay Sethupathi, viewers saw a stellar supporting cast including Sanjay Kapoor, Vinay Pathak, Pratima Kannan, and Tinnu Anand. On the other hand, the Tamil version features talents like Radhika Sarathkumar, Shanmugaraja, Kevin Jay Babu, and Rajesh Williams, each contributing their unique flair to the narrative. Adding to that are special cameo appearances by actors Ashwini Kalsekar and Radhika Apte.

Merry Christmas boasts a lineup of producers, including Ramesh Taurani, Jaya Taurani, Sanjay Routray, and Kewal Garg. As Merry Christmas gears up for its Netflix debut, anticipation runs high among movie enthusiasts. ALSO READ: CONFIRMED! Katrina Kaif and Vijay Sethupathi starrer Merry Christmas to release on December 15, 2023

A fire incident occurred at Nawroj Hill Society in the upscale Pali Hill area of Bandra West in Mumbai, where Bollywood actress Jacqueline Fernandez resides. As per reports, no reported injuries. The fire reportedly originated in a kitchen on the 13th floor of the 17-story high-rise building. Upon receiving the distress call, four fire engines, three jumbo tankers, and one breathing apparatus van were swiftly dispatched to the scene. According to locals, the fire was confined to a room on the 14th floor of the Nawroj Hill Society.

Jacqueline Fernandez's residence is a lavish 5 BHK apartment within the building. The incident occurred around 8 PM on Nargis Dutt Road on Wednesday, March 6, a civic official, quoted by PTI, confirmed the details.

In 2023, Jacqueline Fernandez purchased a lavish residence nestled in the prestigious Pali Hill neighborhood of Bandra West, Mumbai. Last July, a video showcasing the exterior of her new abode captured widespread attention on social media.

On the work front, Jacqueline Fernandez is set to star in Welcome to the Jungle alongside Akshay Kumar, Sanjay Dutt, Suniel Shetty, Arshad Warsi, Paresh Rawal, Johnny Lever, Rajpal Yadav, Tusshar Kapoor, Shreyas Talpade, Krushna Abhishek, Kiku Sharda, Daler Mehndi, Mika Singh, Sayaji Shinde, Mukesh Tiwari, Zakir Hussain, Yashpal Sharma. Additionally, Raveena Tandon, Lara Dutta, Disha Patani, and Vrihi Kodvara are also a part of the film. ALSO READ: Jacqueline Fernandez teams up with French-Cameroonian singer TayC for ‘Yimmy Yimmy’ music video, teaser out tomorrow