Filmmaker Karan Johar recently discussed the success factor behind blockbuster films in Indian Cinema and insisted that conviction played a bigger role than logic. The producer-director pointed out how superhits and mega blockbusters that have achieved immense success in the past few years rely more on the filmmaker’s conviction in his work rather than logic by making references to films like Animal, RRR, Gadar.

In an interaction with Komal Nahta, Karan Johar revealed how S.S. Rajamouli showcases his immense faith in his work over anything else and also held it true for Sandeep Reddy Vanga and Anil Sharma, who too have experienced massive response at the box office. Revealing how logic doesn’t play a role in these films, Karan said, “Take Rajamouli sir’s movies, for instance. Where can you spot logic? You can only see conviction in his films. When that conviction comes to the forefront, even the audience will believe you. This holds true for all major blockbusters, including Animal, RRR and Gadar. They were all driven by conviction. If a person is shown beating up 1,000 people with just a handpump, it’s because of conviction. Anil Sharma believes Sunny Deol can do that, and as a result, the audience believes it too. And in Gadar 2, the moment he touches someone, they run away. That’s pure faith”.

“More often than not, you end up doubting yourself, second-guessing the audience and thinking too much about logic. That won’t help you in any way,” the filmmaker added insisting that conviction is the key element common between all these films.

On the work front, Karan Johar has multiple productions in the pipeline under his banner Dharma Productions and Dharmatic Entertainment. The filmmaker is also expected to return to direction with an intense action drama, which he announced on his 50th birthday, a few years ago.

Also Read: Karan Johar praises Shah Rukh Khan for making his films global hits; says, “He is not just a star; he is an emotion”

Kaveri Kapur's new single ‘Ek Dhaaga Toda Maine’ from her debut movie is making all the music for all the right reasons. Kaveri lent her voice to a rather melodious track that talks about the chaos that life sometimes becomes and how to deal with complexities that it throws our way. The single has been composed and rendered by Kaveri herself, with the Hindi lyrics penned by Prasoon Joshi and produced by maestro A R Rahman.

Kaveri had earlier talked about how she considers A R Rahman her mentor and opened up about him guiding her on her music journey. And now, the music maestro too has showered praises on Kaveri. He said, "Song writing, especially personalised thoughts in poetry is a gift, a blessing that not everyone gets. I think Kaveri has it naturally, through her genes and her point of view of the world. I loved working on this track with her, co-producing with her and I wish her the very best."

Kaveri recalled that she had first written ‘Ek Dhaaga Toda Maine’ when she was 15 years old, in English as ‘Reminisce’ and when she'd presented it to A R Rahman, he had expressed interest in producing it. And when her Bobby Aur Rishi Ki Love Story director Kunal Kohli heard the song, he asked for it to be added to the film's music album. That is how Prasoon Joshi was brought on to pen Hindi lyrics and the song came into being.

Speaking of the film, the romantic drama marks Kaveri’s foray into Hindi films and it co-starred Vardhaan Puri. Set against the urban contemporary romance, the film revolves around Bobby and Rishi whose chance meeting at the Heathrow airport takes them to a whirlwind trip to Cambridge where sparks fly but life forces them apart. Years after, the star-crossed lovers reunite but are left wondering if they will ever get a second chance at love. The film premiered last week on JioHotstar.

Also Read: Priyanka Chopra drops appreciation post for Shekhar Kapur and Suchitra Krishnamoorthy’s daughter Kaveri Kapur and her music in Bobby Aur Rishi Ki Love Story

While controversies continue for Elvish Yadav, it seems that his recent comments on Bigg Boss contestant Chum Darang have landed him in further trouble. FWICE (Federation of Western India Cine Employees) has decided to take a stand against the YouTube influencer and reality show star by penning a letter requesting the channel and producers to remove Yadav from the reality show Laughter Chef Season 2 by expressing concern that he may have a negative influence on the youth.

“We strongly condemn the promotion of Mr. Elvish Yadav. As you are well aware, he has made racial comments against Bigg Boss 18 contestant Chum Darang and has faced significant backlash on social media," the FWICE letter from President BN Tiwari read, as per ETimes Report. Further addressing the snake venom rave party controversy, the letter added, “Furthermore, several cases have been registered against him, including his arrest in the snake venom rave party case. He also faces legal charges under the Wildlife Act in Noida for allegedly arranging snake venom at rave parties."

The letter opened up about the impact Yadav has on the current generation youth and expressed concerns over the negative influence he may have on them. "He is widely followed by the youth of our nation, and his actions highly influence them to engage in illegal activities. We strongly condemn all his acts that go against the welfare of society and the values of our country. We strongly object to Colors Channel promoting Elvish Yadav and request you to discontinue your association with him for the betterment of society and the nation. We hope you understand the severity of the matter and our concerns. We look forward to your immediate and necessary action," the letter insisted.

Also Read: Manisha Rani BREAKS silence on unfollowing Elvish Yadav: “If he has ego, I have self-respect”

Sheeba Akashdeep, who has been a part of films, television, and web-series, recently recalled her time with Akshay Kumar on the sets of Mr. Bond (1992). The actress revealed how while working in close proximity, often actors end up being together but the love soon fizzles out, albeit it does leave an impact on young minds. In a candid conversation, Sheeba opened up about developing a ‘friendship’ with the Khiladi star and also revealed how she took her own time to cool down from the impact of a breakup.

In a Pinkvilla report, Sheeba Akashdeep was quoted saying, “When you are young and working in close proximity, ho jata hai ishq (love happens)." Further talking about how their families too shared a bond, the actress continued, “Both fitness-crazy people… And family friends. My nani and his mom would play cards together.” However, she continued to insist that she doesn’t remember much about the breakup. “We were both kids. I don’t even talk about it. I find it so funny. What’s there to talk about it? I don’t even remember much stuff from that time. It’s been over three decades,” she maintained.

But Sheeba did open up about the impact the relationship had and how it is difficult to switch back to friends and asserted on the need to take time to heal. “Not when you are very young, very emotional. You are so emotional that you are unable to be normal after that for the longest time. Young love is very passionate and powerful and it’s like an explosion. So, when that explosion happens, it has to come down… Friendship doesn’t survive. There’s just too much invested in a relationship to be friends later. It just doesn’t happen, unless you are really mature,” she added.

Also Read: Akshay Kumar pays tribute to Pulwama attack martyrs on 6th anniversary

Mumbai is witnessing a rare cinematic phenomenon as filmmaker Laxman Utekar’s Chhaava, starring Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, and Akshaye Khanna, has been granted midnight and post-midnight shows owing to a crazy public demand. The period action drama, produced by Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock Films, is running to packed houses, with show timings extending as late as 12:45 am, 1:00 am, 1:15 am, and even 1:30 am in various locations across Mumbai.

It is very rare for a film to get shows as late as 1:30 am. Some of the films that have been granted shows past midnight include the likes of Drishyam 2, Jawan, Pathaan, Animal, Stree 2, Shaitaan, Sooryavanshi, etc. Gangubai Kathiawadi is the only female led film to have got post-midnight shows. As far as Hollywood is concerned, films like Oppenheimer, Avatar: The Way Of Water, etc, have achieved this.

However, all the Hindi movies that have so far received post-midnight shows feature a superstar in the lead. Chhaava is the first film where an emerging superstar like Vicky Kaushal has received this honour. Along with his popularity, the admiration of the people of Maharashtra for Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, on whose life the film is based, is a major reason for the film’s craze.

Chhaava opened in India with Rs. 33.10 crores on Friday February 14. The film is now expected to easily cross Rs. 100 crores in its first weekend itself.

Also Read: Chhaava Box Office: Vicky Kaushal starrer roars with an opening of Rs. 33.10 crores

Akshay Kumar is set to return with another historical drama as his upcoming film, previously titled Shankara, has been renamed Kesari Chapter 2. Bollywood Hungama was the first one to report this earlier this month. The makers have now shared that the much-anticipated sequel to Kesari has officially been titled Kesari Chapter 2 – The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh.

The makers—Dharma Productions, Leo Media Collective, and Cape of Good Films—have also revealed that the film is set to release on April 18, 2025. Co-starring R. Madhavan and Ananya Panday, the film is produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions, Cape of Good Films, and Leo Media Collective.

Directed by Karan Singh Tyagi, the historical drama stars Akshay Kumar, R. Madhavan, and Ananya Panday in pivotal roles. The film will delve into the tragic events surrounding the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919, promising an intense and emotional cinematic experience.

With Akshay Kumar reprising his role in another patriotic drama, R. Madhavan bringing his acting prowess, and Ananya Panday stepping into an unexplored genre, expectations are sky-high.

Earlier, a source told Bollywood Hungama, “Kesari, an emotional action film, was about the sacrifice of Sikhs during the pre-Independence era. The C Sankaran Nair film is a courtroom drama and, in that regard, it is very different from the 2019 film. However, since it also deals with the brave Sikh community’s contribution and sacrifice against the British and stars Akshay Kumar, the makers felt that Kesari Chapter 2 is an apt title.”

Also Read : EXCLUSIVE: Akshay Kumar-R Madhavan-Ananya Panday’s next gets a title – Kesari Chapter 2

Choreographer Farah Khan recently reflected on her past decision to reject Shilpa Shirodkar for Dil Se’s iconic song ‘Chhaiya Chhaiya.’ In a vlog, she jokingly admitted that she thought Shilpa was “100 kilos” and wondered how she would fit on the train. However, in a new vlog featuring Shilpa, Farah lightheartedly made amends, promising her a spot in ‘Chhaiya Chhaiya 2’ if the song ever gets remade.

In her latest vlog, Farah Khan, joined by her cook Dilip, visited Shilpa Shirodkar’s home, where the topic of her past rejection resurfaced. Shilpa playfully recalled Farah’s remarks, saying, “You said, ‘Shilpa was at least 100 kilos. How will she get on the train? And if she does, where will Shah Rukh stand?’” Both burst into laughter as Farah reassured her that she would definitely cast her in a sequel, to which Shilpa quipped, “I will be on the train with dancers and Shah Rukh!”

Farah also recalled how Shilpa was famous for her rain songs in the 1990s, joking that she always arrived on set with her own rain machine and water tanker.

However, Farah admitted feeling guilty about rejecting Shilpa, remembering that she had initially given her 15 days to work on her physique but ultimately felt there wasn’t enough visible change.

Shilpa had earlier revealed on Siddharth Kannan’s YouTube channel that she was rejected for ‘Chhaiya Chhaiya’ due to her weight and said, “I didn’t get it because I was fat. They just said I am fat.” While she acknowledged that missing out on ‘Chhaiya Chhaiya’ was disappointing, she maintained a positive outlook, added, “I will always feel bad that I didn’t get the song, but God gave me much more, and He is still giving me.”

Also Read : Main Hoon Na 2 on the cards? Farah Khan to reunite with Shah Rukh Khan, reveal reports

Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor marked a significant milestone with the launch of his lifestyle brand Arks and the grand opening of its first retail store in Bandra, Mumbai. He arrived at the store in the morning, warmly greeting and posing for the paparazzi. As he stepped into the fashion and lifestyle industry, his wife, actress Alia Bhatt, showed her support by sharing a special Instagram post, celebrating his achievement and congratulating him on realizing his dream.

On Friday, Alia Bhatt shared a series of pictures on Instagram, sporting a cap and sneakers from Ranbir Kapoor’s brand, Arks. In her caption, she playfully congratulated him and wrote, “Can literally now walk a mile in YOUR shoes—@arks is here! Congratulations, baby. Your dream is live! Shop elevated essentials now – link in bio!”

The first photo captures Alia flashing a bright smile while wearing a white Arks cap, followed by an image of her showcasing white sneakers. The last two pictures also feature her pet cat, Edward.

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Bipasha Basu also expressed her support for her Bachna Ae Haseeno co-star Ranbir Kapoor by reacting to Alia Bhatt’s post with several clapping emojis. Ahead of the brand’s launch, Alia had shared her excitement through an Instagram story, writing, “One dream 10 years in the making!! A self-funded homegrown brand comes to life! @arks launching on the 14th of February!!! Break a leg, baby.”

On the work front, Alia Bhatt will next appear in Alpha alongside Sharvari. Directed by Shiv Rawail, the film is the first female-led installment in the YRF Spy Universe. She is also set to star in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love and War, where she will share the screen with Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal.

Ranbir Kapoor is also set to star in Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana, alongside Sai Pallavi and Yash. The mythological drama will be released in two parts, scheduled for Diwali 2026 and 2027.

Also Read : Alia Bhatt drops intense workout video; says, “The struggle is important”

Pushpa 2: The Rule (Reloaded Version) has set the global streaming charts ablaze, marking its second consecutive week on Netflix’s list of Global Top Ten Films (Non-English). Currently ranking #3 worldwide, the film is trending in 14 countries, with a cumulative of 9.4 million views across two weeks, a testament to its massive reach and blockbuster star Allu Arjun’s electrifying screen presence. Available in Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, Bengali and English, the action-packed blockbuster is captivating audiences across cultures and languages.

Directed by Sukumar and produced by Mythri Movie Makers in collaboration with Sukumar Writings, the film boasts a stellar ensemble, including Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, Fahadh Faasil, Jagapathi Babu, Sunil, Anasuya Bharadwaj, Rao Ramesh and Ajay.

Allu Arjun, whose stellar performance has won hearts worldwide, shared, “The love and adulation for Pushpa 2: The Rule (Reloaded Version) from across the world is truly overwhelming. This film was made with blood, sweat and heart — and to see it connect with audiences at such a massive scale is beyond gratifying. I am incredibly proud of the film’s success on Netflix — through the platform, our story is reaching millions across different countries, breaking language and cultural barriers. And I’m deeply grateful to the fans whose unwavering support and excitement continue to fuel this journey.”

Director Sukumar added, “Pushpa: The Rise set the stage for a world and a character that audiences embraced wholeheartedly, and with Pushpa 2-The Rule, we wanted to take that legacy forward in an even bigger, more immersive way. The film’s success on Netflix is a testament to the universal appeal of Indian cinema, and I’m grateful for the love it continues to receive.”

Monika Shergill, Vice President, Content- Netflix India, shared, “Pushpa 2: The Rule Continues, India’s biggest blockbuster, is now one of the most-watched films on Netflix. The raw intensity of its characters, combined with the fearless vision of director Sukumar and teams at Mythri Movie Makers has set new benchmarks for Indian cinema. We are proud to bring this reloaded edition featuring new scenes that deliver an even more thrilling experience for our audiences. As its influence continues to break boundaries, this reloaded edition stands as a must-watch for our audiences all over the world.”

With its high-octane action sequences and the now-iconic ‘Jathara’ scene (where Arjun dons a saree), the film has received widespread acclaim from both fans and critics. From India to international markets, Pushpa 2: The Rule continues to redefine mass entertainment, proving that the fire of Pushpa’s legacy burns brighter than ever.

Pushpa 2: The Rule (Reloaded Version) is currently streaming on Netflix in Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, Bengali and English.

Also Read: Allu Arjun reveals Pushpa 2 climax fight shoot took over 18 days, praises Navakanth’s choreography

The beautiful and talented Anjana Sukhani is on cloud nine as her web series Bada Naam Karenge has received a lot of appreciation. Bollywood Hungama exclusively spoke to her about the show and a lot more.

How has been the feedback for Bada Naam Karenge? It has been very positive. I do understand that it’s not a lengthy character. But it’s important to the story. Hence, the reviews and also the love from the public have been very heartwarming. When we were making the show, director Palash Vaswani knew that this character would hold onto her own. I went with full belief that Palash would handle it very well and he did it.

It was a surprise to see you in such a role as you have never done something like that before. Were you surprised to be offered the character of Neeta? Not at all. Palash and I have been wanting to work together for a while. After Gullak, I knew that I wanted to work with this director. We were in touch constantly and when the first draft of the show was ready, he told me that he had a role for me. I manifested working with him and it happened to me. Thanks to him, the journey was very easy. When a director is sure of what he/she wants and how he/she wants it, it puts the actor at ease. All the actor then needs is to execute it emotionally right. The writing has been beautiful; Palash made it clear that I don’t have much dialogues but assured me that he’ll play with the silences. And he did it well as it's his forte. In the climax, there are no talkie scenes. The eyes do the talking for the characters.

I am sure many viewers in the end would have wanted Neeta to leave her husband Rajesh (played by Rajesh Tailang)… Maybe they are keeping it for Season 2! I don’t think it will happen. Rajshri ke shows mein divorces nahin hote (laughs). On a serious note, I understand that as there’s nothing that can’t be spoken about and solved. In the show, my character gets married even without knowing the man. They just got her married off in a week’s time; she didn’t even have a choice. Her brother has not accepted her even after 20 years. Also, she hasn’t been depicted as a working woman. Hence, where can she go? So, she had no choice but to stay put. I am sure there are a lot of women who probably want to get out (of such marriages) but are not able to as they are maybe not financially independent or emotionally stable enough to handle the situation. Though she is suppressed, she still has that opinion. In 20 years, she has reached the position that she can have a say but only to an extent.

The show talks about real India, where kids still hide from their parents that they drink. Were you worried how the hard-nosed critics would react as they might not know that such a side of India also exists? 65% of our population is under 35. We are only seeing from an urban point of view that aisa hota nahin hai. But in 2 and 3-tier cities, people are still not comfortable drinking with their parents or even having an opinion about it with them. Like I would never drink in front of my parents. We have never reached that stage and as Indians, I don’t think we ever will. We even shouldn’t do it as we are doing it out of respect and not fear.

Most of the web shows nowadays have too much sex and violence. Bada Naam Karenge is a rare show which is a clean family entertainer… It’s the only such show across all platforms (laughs). I would like to mention that my previous show Saas Bahu Achaar Pvt Ltd was also pretty much on the same lines. So, I guess I am choosing my directors wisely (laughs). Bada Naam Karenge depicts value systems, celebration, pain, etc. It's like a complete package. My mother was seeing the sixth episode and during the song ‘Naino Se Cheater’, she started dancing (smiles). It was a joyous moment and I recorded it (laughs). Hence, even the elders are enjoying it. Otherwise, mothers usually opt for TV as they don’t get clean content on the web.

Bada Naam Karenge is backed by Sooraj Barjatya. It is said that on his sets, no one shouts or gets angry. Is that true? Aapne bilkul sahi suna hai! We didn’t hear anyone raising their voice, be it the director, producer or spot boy. Sometimes, to give instructors, people tend to talk loudly. That also didn’t happen here. Hence, you get to work in a satvik atmosphere on Rajshri sets!

How was your experience of interacting with Sooraj Barjatya? I kept missing him by a whisker. When the actors were shooting in Mumbai, I was not a part of the schedule. When he was leaving Indore is when I had just arrived in the city. When he returned to Indore, I had just left! I was the only actor who missed meeting him while everybody else had a conversation with him. Eventually, I got my chance while the interviews were happening. We had a very nice chat. He’s very humble. He makes you feel that he’s the fan while you are the star but it's vice versa (smiles).

How was it working with Rajesh Tailang? You have the maximum scenes with him… His performance is very nuanced. Yet, you don’t feel that he has made any effort for it. He just flows into a character. It was also perfect casting. The requirement was for an actor who was charming but also wicked.

It was great to see you and him being paired together… When I was told I’d be cast opposite him, I was like ‘This is no match’! But we needed that ‘no match’ pairing. Hence, we also have a scene where Jyoti aunty says, ‘Aapko yeh kahan se mil gayi?’!

Will there be a Season 2? There’s not much of a cliff-hanger though… Thoda cliff-hanger toh hai. Rajesh ji ka character ab tak sudhra nahin hai. Rajshri ke show mein sab sudhre hue hote hai (laughs). Hence, there’s still that hope that he’ll turn a new leaf.

Was there ever a scene between you and Mohit (Sameer Dharmadhikari)? There was never supposed to be a scene between us. It was only verbally spoken that this was her past and it has hampered the last 20 years of her life.

It was heartbreaking to see what she went through… Yes, but this also happens in real. People hold grudges and they do that till the very end, without realizing that it’s a small life. Forgive and move on.

Were there any bloopers or funny moments on the sets? A lot of them. We have fallen and stumbled. Galti se gaali de di. On Rajshri sets, even saying ‘pagal hai kya’ is considered an abuse!

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Anjana Sukhani recalls being “completely ignored” in Good Newwz promotions; reveals Akshay Kumar arranged press meet for her at Dharma Productions office; says, “If I do five extra interviews, it won’t affect anyone’s stardom”

After rumours of Diljit Dosanjh and Vedang Raina being roped in for an Imtiaz Ali directorial started doing the rounds, now the latest update on that front is that the filmmaker is keen on casting Sharvari as the leading lady. After the stupendous success of Munjya and much love she received for her action-packed role in Vedaa, Sharvari is busy with another highly-anticipated project Alpha. Meanwhile, if this buzz is true, the actress is expected to have another intriguing role in her kitty. 

Speaking of the Imtiaz Ali film, it is expected to be an intense romantic drama. Although details of the same are kept under wraps, a source confirmed Imtiaz’s interest in casting Sharvari in a Pinkvilla report. “Imtiaz wanted to cast someone who is a talented actor and felt Sharvari is best for the part. The industry feels Sharvari has the potential to make it big from her generation and she tick-marked the bucket list of Imtiaz Ali to be a part of his next directorial”, the source said. 

Talking further about the film and also touching upon the character that Sharvari will be seen playing, the source added, “The tale has multiple character arcs, and Sharvari will be seen sharing the screen space with Vedang in this soul-touching romantic film. It’s a different take on romance from everything done by Imtiaz to date, and the pre-production work has already begun”. It is being said that the yet-to-be-titled film is a period love story that is set to go on floors in April. 

Meanwhile, Imtiaz has always showcased his love for Diljit Dosanjh with whom he collaborated for Amar Singh Chamkila and received rave reviews. On the other hand, Vedang, who made his film debut with The Archies and later a theatrical debut with Jigra, will be working with the Rockstar filmmaker for the first time. 

Also Read: Sharvari turns brand ambassador for Wellbeing Nutrition; shares glimpse of their first campaign on social media

Deepika Padukone turned heads at Cartier’s high jewellery showcase in Dubai, celebrating the brand’s 25th anniversary in the Middle East. As Cartier’s High Jewellery Global Ambassador since 2022, the global icon once again proved why she is the perfect muse for the luxury brand, donning a breathtaking ensemble that effortlessly complements the opulence of her jewellery.

The Showstopping Necklace At the heart of Deepika’s look was a statement Cartier High Jewellery necklace, a masterpiece of intricate craftsmanship. The design featured black-and-white patterns inspired by butterfly wings, a recurring motif in Cartier’s creations. This contrast was enhanced by the delicate chalcedony beads, exuding a sense of freshness and elegance. The pièce de résistance was a striking 63.76-carat rubellite pendant, which added a pop of deep red, balancing the ethereal tones of the necklace with a bold, luxurious touch. The Custom Gown: A Perfect Canvas Deepika’s attire was nothing short of a red-carpet spectacle. Styled by celebrity stylist Shaleena Nathani, she opted for a voluminous black gown, custom-designed by Jade by Monica and Karishma. The silhouette featured a sweetheart neckline, off-the-shoulder puff sleeves, and dramatic ruffle detailing. The timeless elegance of the gown provided the perfect backdrop for the exquisite jewellery, allowing the necklace to take center stage while maintaining an aura of regal sophistication. Hair & Makeup: A Subtle Yet Striking Finish Deepika’s beauty look, crafted by celebrity makeup artist Anil C and hair stylist Gabriel Georgiou, perfectly complemented her ensemble. She sported a sleek, center-parted low bun, secured with a black ribbon, adding a touch of vintage glamour. Her makeup featured softly sculpted cheeks, a flawless matte base, and intense smokey eyes that enhanced her signature kohl-rimmed gaze. Nude lips balanced the look, keeping the focus on her eyes and the grandeur of the jewellery. Capturing the Moment Photographer Vaishnav Praveen masterfully captured Deepika against the dramatic Dubai skyline, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle. The golden hues of the sunset lent an ethereal glow to the setting, elevating the allure of the ensemble. Each frame exuded an air of timeless elegance, perfectly in sync with Cartier’s legacy of luxury.

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Cartier’s Exhibition: A Journey of Wonders Deepika’s appearance at the event was in celebration of Cartier’s ‘A Journey of Wonders’ exhibition, set to open at the Al Shindagha Museum in Dubai on February 16 and 17, 2025. The event promises a showcase of Cartier’s most exquisite pieces, with Deepika’s look serving as a fitting prelude to the artistry and craftsmanship on display.

Also Read: Deepika Padukone expresses gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi; appreciates his commitment towards mental health

The much-anticipated trailer of The Diplomat, starring John Abraham, is set to release on February 14, 2025. Touted as a gripping tale of survival and international rescue, the film promises to showcase the power of diplomacy in high-stakes situations.

A recently shared teaser hints at the film’s intense narrative. It opens with the words "Based on a true story," before introducing actress Sadia Khateeb as Uzma Ahmed. The sequence shows her desperately trying to escape while being pursued by a police jeep. The clip then unveils John Abraham as The Diplomat JP Singh, hinting at the role he plays in this international crisis.

Directed by Shivam Nair and penned by Ritesh Shah, The Diplomat is set for a theatrical release on March 7, 2025. The film is produced by a powerhouse team, including T-Series’ Bhushan Kumar and Krishan Kumar, John Abraham’s JA Entertainment, Wakaoo Films' Vipul D. Shah, Ashwin Varde, and Rajesh Bahl, Fortune Pictures’ Sameer Dixit and Jatish Varma, and Seeta Films' Rakesh Dang.

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With a premise rooted in real-life events, The Diplomat is expected to deliver an engaging mix of action, drama, and diplomacy. Fans can catch the official trailer on February 14.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Moviegoers to be treated to teasers of Thama, Bhool Chuk Maaf, The Diplomat, Andaz Apna Apna with Chhaava

Ajay Devgn has been roped in to provide a voiceover for Chhaava, the upcoming historical drama led by Vicky Kaushal. Directed by Laxman Utekar and produced by Dinesh Vijan, the film is based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and is set for a Valentine’s Day 2025 release. According to a report by Pinkvilla, Devgn has already completed dubbing for his portions.

Why Ajay Devgn Was Chosen for the Role The report stated that Ajay Devgn's powerful voice and impactful dialogue delivery made him the ideal choice for the narration. “Ajay Devgn is among the very few actors in Indian cinema who can captivate audiences with just his voice. His intensity enhances the emotional weight of the scenes,” the report quoted a source. Given his previous role in Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior, which depicted the story of another Maratha warrior, Devgn was more than willing to lend his voice to Chhaava. Ajay Devgn Has Completed Dubbing for Chhaava The source further confirmed that Ajay Devgn completed his voiceover work for the film in the last week. “The voiceover has brought a new dimension to Chhaava, elevating the storytelling experience. His narration is expected to add gravitas to the film’s historical narrative,” they added. What to Expect from Chhaava Starring Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, Chhaava also features Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna in pivotal roles. The film has been generating buzz since the teaser release, and with advance bookings now open, expectations are high for a strong box-office performance. As the first major release of 2025, Chhaava is poised to impact audiences.

Chhaava is scheduled for release on February 14, 2025.

Also Read: Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, Dinesh Vijan and Laxman Utekar seek blessings in Shirdi ahead of Chhaava release

On Tuesday, Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi showcased his support towards the next generation of India by announcing Pariksha Pe Charcha that deals with exam-related stress, anxiety and mental health issues that have become quite rampant among young students. While Deepika Padukone was invited as the guest of honor for one of the episodes, PM Modi not only welcomed her but also appreciated her for her extensive work towards mental health. Responding to his post, the Pathaan star too has expressed her gratitude.

PM Narendra Modi took to his official Instagram page to share a video of the kids discussing exam stress and other factors of Pariksha Pe Charcha as he shared, “Among the most common topics #ExamWarriors want to discuss is mental health and wellbeing. Therefore, this year's Pariksha Pe Charcha has an episode specially dedicated to this which will play tomorrow, 12th February. And we have @deepikapadukone, who is very passionate about this subject, talking about it.” Responding to the same, Deepika Padukone added, “Thank you honorable Prime Minister @narendramodi for your commitment towards the cause of Mental Health. I look forward to launching our episode tomorrow!”

Speaking of Pariksha Pe Charcha, Deepika marked the second episode that went on air on February 12, 2025, at 10 AM. This year, Pariksha Pe Charcha (PPC) has introduced a new format, bringing together notable personalities from various fields to guide students preparing for their board exams and will be broadcast live across multiple platforms, ensuring wide accessibility for students and parents.

Meanwhile, coming to film commitments of the actress, Deepika Padukone continues her maternity break after the birth of her and Ranveer Singh’s daughter Dua in September. She is yet to announce the upcoming slate of her projects.

Also Read: Prime Minister Narendra Modi applauds Deepika Padukone for promoting mental health in Pariksha Pe Charcha

Nora Fatehi’s fans marked her birthday by engaging in charitable activities. In a heartfelt gesture, her admirers celebrated her special day by giving back to those in need, engaging in various charitable activities.

Every year the fan clubs conduct this incredible gesture by collecting funds to donate food to underprivileged children in India. Touched by their generosity, the trending queen took to Instagram today to acknowledge and appreciate their efforts with the caption, “That’s such a beautiful, generous and selfless gesture! Shoutout to my Fans!”

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Nora Fatehi global impact couldn't get any special with this charity work and the dominance on the international stage. The collaboration with Jason Derulo and Tommy Brown for ‘Snake’ has become the most viewed video within 24 hours and securing the #2 spot globally, but it has also entered the Spotify global charts at #3. Snake has crossed 90M views and Nora is hinting on even collaborating with international artists again for major record breaking hits.

Nora Fatehi is speculated to collaborate again with Snake producer Tommy Brown and songwriter Theron Billie, known for his work with Bruno Mars and ROSÉ on APT.

Also Read : Nora Fatehi and Tommy Brown tease new collab with Grammy Winner Theron Billie

In an earlier interview, Rozlyn Khan accused Hina Khan of using her cancer treatment as a publicity stunt which did not go down well with co-actress and colleague Ankita Lokhande. The Pavitra Rishta actress took to social media to share her disappointment and anger towards the allegations against the YRKHH actress, insisting that her husband Vicky Jain too met her in the midst of her treatment. However, unhappy with the support Lokhande showcased for Hina, Rozlyn decided to slam her and accused her of using her ex-boyfriend Sushant Singh Rajput’s death to gain sympathy on Bigg Boss.

On Tuesday, Ankita Lokhande shared a glimpse of the interview with Rozlyn Khan is throwing allegations at Hina Khan and calling out the latter for her so-called ‘publicity stunt’ and in the post shared on Instagram story, the Manikarnika actress wrote, “"How could someone think so low, my goodness? That’s so cheap! For your kind information, madam, this girl Hina is fighting cancer with such bravery, and I’m saying this because I know it. Vikki met her a few days back in the hospital while she was undergoing chemotherapy, and Rocky was by her side. Vikki told me he was in tears seeing her in that condition. Hina, you are strong, our Sher Khan! This isn’t easy for you or for anyone going through this. God bless you, girl. This too shall pass. @realhinakhan."

However, Khan decided to react to this note by further bringing in Ankita Lokhande’s past and also calling out the fraternity as she insisted that more members from ‘the girl gang’ of the industry will be coming out in support of Hina. “A woman who could use the death of his ex for a big boss is preaching to me about cheapness!! Not a big surprise... Guys, I posted a video a few days ago mentioning how these TV actresses are using their fan pages to reshare my videos, harassing and trolling me, and @lokhandeankita has come forward publicly, assaulting my character. Hina’s cancer is cancer... my cancer just for time pass?? I was exposing one woman, and another one came in for free, but let's ignore her... simply ignore. Now, she’s going to give me lectures on cancer, when she herself needs advice to sustain her own marriage,” her note read.

“I have been repeatedly saying that since I asked a simple question on 15 hours of surgery and discrepancies in the treatment by Hina khan, she chooses to remain silent on this and even hospital has followed the privacy concerns of a patient but they took another route may be to hit me in the back .. there were unidentified people bullying me , multiple bots were set for bad comments on my page ..fan pages of tv actress were Sharing my videos to troll me further, so I had no option but to inform the local police station,” she went on to add.

For the unversed, Rozlyn Khan too is a cancer survivor and has often discussed her journey with her social media fam. Meanwhile, Hina Khan has been receiving much support not only from her fans but also from the film industry with members like Mahima Chaudhary and Sonali Bendre who have been through this painful experience before.

Also Read: Rozlyn Khan calls out Hina Khan using Cancer treatment as ‘publicity stunt’; says, “Patients can get into trouble if they follow her”

Junaid Khan and Khushi Kapoor, who recently made their theatrical debut with the romantic comedy Loveyapa, opened up about belonging to a film family as they opened up about their early brush with acting. It is a known fact that Khan is a trained theatre artist and has been a part of the industry for many years. The actor, however, confessed that he underwent extensive acting and theatre courses, for which his parents spent an exorbitant amount and appreciated his luck for having parents with such strong financial backing.

Comparing how his father decided to learn more on the job rather than investing in acting classes and appreciating his parents’ efforts for sending him to these classes, Junaid Khan told The Indian Express, “I had the privilege of being able to go to theatre school, and spend a 'ridonculous' amount of my parents' money on a theatre education. That's a huge privilege, especially for a career that has no financial upside on the horizon”. Khan went on to continue about how his father learnt these skills and added, “Dad did spend a lot of time at FTII doing diploma films. So, he didn't go to acting school per se. But yeah, he learnt largely on the job.”

Junaid opened up about actors taking different approaches and shared, “I think different actors also approach things differently. As we work, as we learn, we develop tools that come to our aid when we need them. But I think a lot of it is again, just language. If you talk to dad about it, he will have done something but we just call it different things."

On the film front, Junaid Khan made his debut with the YRF film Maharaj co-starring Jaideep Ahlawat, Shalini Pandey, and Sharvari in key roles. The film, based on true events, released on Netflix last year.

Also Read: Loveyapa director Advait Chandan Praises Junaid Khan and Khushi Kapoor; says, “Their dedication is next level”

Sony LIV’s The Waking of a Nation, created and directed by National Award-winning and International Emmy-nominated filmmaker Ram Madhvani, will stream from March 7. The fictional series explores a lesser-known chapter of history.

Set against the backdrop of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, The Waking of a Nation follows lawyer Kantilal Sahni (Taaruk Raina) as he navigates colonial deceit. With the Hunter Commission distorting history, Kantilal confronts racism, erasure, and the struggle for truth. Bound by childhood friendships, he and his companions—Ali Allahbaksh (Sahil Mehta), Hari Singh Aulakh (Bhawsheel Singh), and Poonam (Nikita Dutta)—unravel a conspiracy that challenges their beliefs and alters their fate.

Speaking about the show, creator-director Ram Madhvani shared, “I have always been deeply interested in colonialism and, by extension, the issues of racism and prejudice. Questions surrounding cultural, linguistic, social, and artistic colonization have long troubled me. As I was contemplating my next project, I knew it had to be rooted in our past, in the British Raj, and in our freedom struggle. That’s when the idea for The Waking of a Nation came to life. Thanks to Sony LIV, we now have an exciting show that combines a courtroom drama with the powerful story of three friends and how India became India.”

Produced by Ram Madhvani and Amita Madhvani under the Ram Madhvani Films banner , the series features a stellar ensemble cast, including Taaruk Raina, Nikita Dutta, Sahil Mehta, Bhawsheel Singh, Alex Reece, and Paul McEwan amongst others. Written by Shantanu Srivastava and Shatrujeet Nath and Ram Madhvani , the show promises a compelling blend of historical intrigue, friendship, and the power struggles that shaped the massive investigation.

Also Read : From Anil Kapoor to Abhishek Bachchan, industry showers love on Boman Irani’s directorial debut The Mehta Boys

Anubhav Sinha, who recently made his web-series debut with the power-packed IC814: Kandahar Hijack, recalled his memories about Cash which featured an ensemble cast including Ajay Devgn. The filmmaker revealed that ever since the release of the year, almost two decades ago, the Bollywood superstar has never spoken to Sinha. However, he also insisted that they have never had a fight or showdown.

In an interview with Lallantop, Anubhav Sinha insisted that he has not been in touch with Ajay Devgn and said, “We have never fought. He just doesn’t speak to me and I have no idea why. Since the making of Cash, we haven’t even met for me to tell you he ignored me or something. So, maybe, it’s just me overthinking. However, I did text him a couple of times, and never received a response, so I told to myself that maybe it slipped his mind or he must have missed my message. But, it’s been about 18 years since we have spoken.”

The Ra.One filmmaker went on to share that he assumes that some of his thoughts and opinions that he may have put across in public may have resulted in this distance between them. “In between, I did comment on people’s political views, so I must have told him something too. But he was not the only person I commented about. I have said things to various people, but I still maintain good relations with them all. I am his admirer and I really respect him as an actor and individual,” he added.

However, all of this did not stop Sinha from showering praises on Devgn, whom he considers as one of our best actors and stars. “Ajay was among my favourite actors. I loved him both as an actor and an individual. He is fun to be with. He is like ‘yaaro ka yaar’. Ajay is always the first one to be there for a friend in need.”

Also Read: Ajay Devgn opens up on Singham Again debacle; says, “We’ll keep in mind that going ahead Singham is definitely going to beat up more villains”

Unlike the showsha of Bollywood, the simple yet heartfelt wedding of Siddharth Chopra and model-actress Neelam Upadhyaya has definitely won the heart of netizens who couldn’t stop appreciating the ‘wholesome’ vibe. Attended by global star Priyanka Chopra Jonas and her husband, American pop singer Nick Jonas, the wedding festivities kicked off last week with Haldi, Mehendi, Cocktail, Sangeet and other festivities, a glimpse of each function being shared by PC on her social media page. As the shaadi ceremony, followed by the reception concluded these celebrations, Priyanka posted pictures of the same as well.

Priyanka Chopra drops pics and videos from ‘SidNee Ki Shaadi’

Taking to her official Instagram page, Priyanka Chopra shared moments from the wedding ceremony which included the varmala ceremony (exchanging of garlands), the gatbandhan ritual (tying the knot of bride and groom’s dupattas) ahead of the pheras, groom’s entry, baaratis having a gala time dancing for the special day, and also photo with her in-laws – Denis and Kevin Jonas Sr., among others. “To a lifetime of love, laughter, sunshine and happiness <3 #SidNee ki shaadi! @siddharthchopra89 @neelamupadhyaya”.

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Earlier, the actress also posted glimpses of the glamorous Sangeet wherein the entire Chopra family was seen coming together and sharing an fun-filled evening of dance, music, and heartfelt performances from the family members.

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Netizens cannot stop showering love            

After having a full dose of glitz and glamour in B-town weddings in the past, internet seems to have fallen in love with the wedding ceremonies of Siddharth Chopra and Neelam Upadhyaya. Many of them showered the comment section, appreciating Priyanka Chopra, Nick Jonas, and their families for hosting simple ceremonies devoid of the starry affairs which is what Bollywood is famous for. “Felt like our natural weddings...like we all do... So nice and authentic..no drama baazi..”, read one of the comments from the post. In fact, many of them shared similar views which they shared on the post and they read, “She is just a perfect example of a real woman, this is how grounded a star must be to really be a star. I really don’t remember when I saw such unscripted Indian wedding scenes from stars”, “Finally a celebrity wedding looking like a fun real wedding and not a Bollywood circus… congratulations to the couple”, “This is first celeb wedding which seems like ghar ki shaadi.. And Priyanka is just simple girl enjoying her veer di wedding.. Loved watching this..”  were some of the many comments dropped on the post.

Speaking further about Siddharth Chopra and Neelam Upadhyaya, the couple got engaged in a roka ceremony in August last year and have now tied the knot on February 7.

Also Read: Priyanka Chopra dancing on ‘Darling’ to Nick Jonas singing ‘Tu Maan Meri Jaan’: Sangeet videos from Siddharth Chopra’s wedding go viral

The first epic film of the year, Chhaava, is all set to release this Friday, February 14. It stars Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna in the leading roles and tells the story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. The censor process was completed by the makers way in advance and Bollywood Hungama, in this article, will throw light on its Censor cuts.

Chhaava was passed with a U/A 16+ certificate by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). However, the film had to go through certain modifications. The dialogue 'Mughal sultanat ka zehar' was replaced with 'Uss samay, kayi shaasak aur sultanat khud ko zinda rakhne ki koshish kar rahe the'. Another dialogue 'Khoon toh aakhir Mughalon ka hi hai' was changed to 'Khoon toh hai Aurang ka hi'.

The words 'haramzaadon' and 'haramzaada' were muted while 'Aameen' was replaced with 'Jai Bhavani'. A certain dialogue in the first half was replaced while the CBFC asked the makers to remove the scene showing Maratha warriors clad in a saree.

That's not all. '16 saal' was replaced with '14 saal', '22 saal ka ladka' was replaced with '24 saal ka ladka' while '9 saal' was modified to 'kayi saal'.

Lastly, the CBFC members asked the makers to insert an audio-text disclaimer stating the name of the book from which the film is adapted and that it doesn't intend to defame anybody or distort historical facts.

Once these changes were made, the censor certificate was handed over to the makers of Chhaava on February 1. The length of the film, as mentioned on the certificate, is 161.50 minutes. In other words, Chhaava is 2 hours 41 minutes and 50 seconds long. Directed by Laxman Utekar of Luka Chuppi (2019) and Zara Hatke Zara Bachke (2023) fame, it is all set to release in cinemas on February 14.

Also Read: Vicky Kaushal seeks blessings at Shri Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga as Chhaava kicks off Pan-India promotions

Sanya Malhotra, who has portrayed the role of Richa in the recently released OTT film Mrs, has garnered widespread acclaim. Being a remake of the Malayalam film The Great Indian Kitchen, the movie captures the transformative journey of a simple housewife after marriage. Overwhelmed with gratitude, Sanya took to social media to express her thanks for the love and praise she's received for her outstanding acting in the film.

Sharing a series of photos from the film, Sanya Malhotra captioned it saying, “Grateful beyond words for all the love for Mrs”. In the photos features Sanya standing on a picturesque terrace and in one of them, she is accompanied co-star Nishant Dahiya, who plays the role of her husband Diwakar, exuding a sense of nostalgia and elegance.

Although the film recently was dropped on OTT, Mrs. has already earned prestigious accolades after being screened several film festivals along with standing ovations at the Melbourne Indian Film Festival and IFFI, Goa and Sanya also receiving the Best Actress award at the New York Indian Film Festival.

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Coming to the film, it portrays the life of an ambitious who has to navigate the challenges of marriage after entering a quintessential orthodox Indian family set up. The film revolves around her journey of self-discovery as she tries to follow her own path, find her voice, and express herself freely even as society imposed expectations with regard to her marital life. The film released on ZEE5 on February 7.

Meanwhile, Sanya Malhotra has a busy 2025 ahead with her gearing up for the release of the much-anticipated Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari starring Varun Dhawan, Janhvi Kapoor, Maniesh Paul, and others. Along with that, there is also speculation about an upcoming collaboration with Anurag Kashyap and Bobby Deol.

Also Read: Sanya Malhotra reflects on Mrs. role: “I tried to build Richa’s character”

On Friday (February 7), Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted virtually with prominent figures from the entertainment and business sectors as part of the WAVE Summit. The meeting included Bollywood icons like Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Diljit Dosanjh, as well as global business leaders such as Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani. The discussion focused on India’s potential to become a global hub for creativity and content creation.

The WAVES Summit, short for World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit, aims to bring together professionals from the media, entertainment, and creative industries. During the 117th episode of Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi stated, “This summit is an important step towards making India a hub of global content creation.” The event, scheduled for December 2024, will showcase India’s creative talent on a global stage. WAVES’ Advisory Board The Advisory Board of the WAVES Summit comprises some of the biggest names in entertainment and business. Alongside Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Diljit Dosanjh, the meeting featured Rajinikanth, Ranbir Kapoor, Chiranjeevi, Anil Kapoor, Akshay Kumar, Anupam Kher, and AR Rahman. Business leaders like Anand Mahindra and Satya Nadella also participated, offering insights on how to elevate India’s creative economy.

PM Modi shared a glimpse of the interaction on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “Just concluded an extensive meeting of the Advisory Board of WAVES, the global summit that brings together the world of entertainment, creativity, and culture.” He highlighted the board’s valuable inputs on making India a global entertainment hub.

Just concluded an extensive meeting of the Advisory Board of WAVES, the global summit that brings together the world of entertainment, creativity and culture. The members of the Advisory Board are eminent individuals from different walks of life, who not only reiterated their… pic.twitter.com/FoXeFSzCFY — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 7, 2025

WAVES Summit: A Platform for Creative Growth Launched on September 8, 2024, the WAVES Summit has already garnered significant attention for its focus on storytelling and technological innovation. The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting has partnered with Dancing Atoms for the Animation Filmmakers Competition, a flagship event under the summit. This collaboration marks a historic step in fostering creativity and innovation in India’s entertainment industry.

Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan REACTS to PM Narendra Modi’s announcement of WAVES 2025, calls it “occasion that champions and fosters creativity”: “It is with great anticipation that I look forward to”

Kareena Kapoor Khan recently shared a cryptic note following the stabbing incident involving her husband, actor Saif Ali Khan. The incident occurred on January 16, 2025, at their Bandra residence in Mumbai, where Saif was attacked by an intruder. A 2.5-inch blade fragment was surgically removed from his spine after a five-hour procedure at Lilavati Hospital. Kareena’s post, shared on Instagram, reflected on the complexities of life and the challenges of understanding personal struggles.

The note read, “You'll never truly understand Marriages, Divorces, Anxieties, Childbirth, Death of a loved one, Parenting... Until it actually happens to you. Theories and assumptions of situations in life are not realities. You think you are smarter than most until life humbles you when it's your turn.” The message, though not directly referencing the incident, resonated with her followers, who interpreted it as a reflection on the couple’s recent ordeal.

The Incident and Aftermath

The attack on Saif Ali Khan shocked the film industry and fans alike. Mumbai Police arrested the assailant, identified as Bangladeshi national Shareeful Islam Shehzad Mohammad Rohilla Amin Fakir, on January 19. The investigation revealed that the attacker had entered the couple’s residence with malicious intent. Following the incident, Saif and Kareena requested the paparazzi to respect their family’s privacy, especially concerning their sons, Taimur Ali Khan and Jehangir Ali Khan.

Speaking of the professional front, Saif recently made his first public appearance at the Next On Netflix event for the teaser launch of his new film, Jewel Thief - The Heist Begins. Saif’s co-star Jaideep Ahlawat, in a chat with HT, said, “I have seen those marks and everything. That is the point that he took it in the right way and came back to work. He gave that priority to his work.”

Also Read: Akashdeep Sabir says, “despite Rs 21 crores fee, Kareena Kapoor can’t afford security” as he shares thoughts on pay parity

On Friday (February 7), Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted virtually with prominent figures from the entertainment and business sectors as part of the WAVE Summit. The meeting included Bollywood icons like Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Diljit Dosanjh, as well as global business leaders such as Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani. The discussion focused on India’s potential to become a global hub for creativity and content creation.

The WAVES Summit, short for World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit, aims to bring together professionals from the media, entertainment, and creative industries. During the 117th episode of Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi stated, “This summit is an important step towards making India a hub of global content creation.” The event, scheduled for December 2024, will showcase India’s creative talent on a global stage. WAVES’ Advisory Board The Advisory Board of the WAVES Summit comprises some of the biggest names in entertainment and business. Alongside Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Diljit Dosanjh, the meeting featured Rajinikanth, Ranbir Kapoor, Chiranjeevi, Anil Kapoor, Akshay Kumar, Anupam Kher, and AR Rahman. Business leaders like Anand Mahindra and Satya Nadella also participated, offering insights on how to elevate India’s creative economy.

PM Modi shared a glimpse of the interaction on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “Just concluded an extensive meeting of the Advisory Board of WAVES, the global summit that brings together the world of entertainment, creativity, and culture.” He highlighted the board’s valuable inputs on making India a global entertainment hub.

Just concluded an extensive meeting of the Advisory Board of WAVES, the global summit that brings together the world of entertainment, creativity and culture. The members of the Advisory Board are eminent individuals from different walks of life, who not only reiterated their… pic.twitter.com/FoXeFSzCFY — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 7, 2025

WAVES Summit: A Platform for Creative Growth Launched on September 8, 2024, the WAVES Summit has already garnered significant attention for its focus on storytelling and technological innovation. The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting has partnered with Dancing Atoms for the Animation Filmmakers Competition, a flagship event under the summit. This collaboration marks a historic step in fostering creativity and innovation in India’s entertainment industry.

Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan REACTS to PM Narendra Modi’s announcement of WAVES 2025, calls it “occasion that champions and fosters creativity”: “It is with great anticipation that I look forward to”

In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, actress Anjana Sukhani candidly discussed her experience of being left out of the promotional activities for the 2019 hit film Good Newwz. Despite playing an integral role in the movie, Anjana revealed that she felt sidelined during the film’s marketing campaign, which primarily focused on the lead stars—Akshay Kumar, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Kiara Advani, and Diljit Dosanjh.

Anjana, who portrayed the character of Akshay’s on-screen sister in the film, expressed her disappointment, stating, “I understand that the people who are helming the film are the biggest superstars of our country. We have Kareena Kapoor Khan, Akshay Kumar, Kiara Advani, and Diljit Dosanjh. They are iconic superstars today, and I was not in the lead, but I think I was a very integral part of the film because she is the one who literally pushes her brother to say, ‘Please do it this way.’”

The actress acknowledged the highs and lows of her career, admitting that she had faced a lean phase before Good Newwz came her way. However, she emphasized that being completely excluded from the promotions was disheartening. “Maybe there was a time when I was a little out of work for a year or two, and then Good Newwz happened. I wasn’t expecting them to rally me with them everywhere because it’s the story about two couples—fair enough—but to completely ignore one out of promotions? I don’t understand the marketing strategy of people,” she said.

Anjana further elaborated on the importance of leveraging every actor’s credibility, regardless of their star power. “I don’t get it. If you have chosen an actor, every actor comes with a certain amount of credibility. Your credibility could be a hundred on hundred; mine would be 20 on 100. No problem with that, but use it. Akshay Kumar doesn’t need publicity; he is Akshay Kumar. But I need it. I am not Kareena Kapoor, so I need it. I need a little more push than somebody else,” she explained.

The actress revealed that she reached out to Akshay Kumar, who was also a co-producer of the film, to express her concerns. “I told Akshay about it because I was really hurt not being included at all anywhere. So, I told him, ‘Please do help me out with this. Your little push can help me so far, and nobody loses here. If I do five extra interviews, it won’t affect somebody’s stardom. It might just only help with selling extra tickets,’” she shared.

Anjana appreciated Akshay’s gesture of arranging a press meet for her at Dharma Productions’ office, where she conducted a few interviews. “He was honestly very kind enough to arrange a press meet for me at the Dharma office, and there I did some interviews,” she said.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Anjana Sukhani recalls Nikkhil Advani being “mean and harsh sometimes” during Salaam-E-Ishq shoot; reveals she wasn’t informed about kissing scene with Anil Kapoor, saying, “This wouldn’t happen to a star kid”

Rajesh Khanna and Amitabh Bachchan, one of Bollywood’s most iconic duos, shared screen space in classics like Anand and Namak Halaal. Now, their grandchildren are set to team up on the big screen. As per the latest buzz, Naomika Saran, granddaughter of Rajesh Khanna and Dimple Kapadia, will make her Bollywood debut in a romantic comedy alongside Agastya Nanda, grandson of Amitabh and Jaya Bachchan. The film is backed by producer Dinesh Vijan, who continues the trend of introducing fresh on-screen pairings.

Rajesh Khanna's granddaughter Naomika Saran and Amitabh Bachchan's grandson Agastya Nanda will star in a rom-com produced by Maddock Films, according to PeepingMoon. The film will be directed by Jagdeep Sidhu, known for Punjabi hits like Qismat, Qismat 2, and Shadaa. This marks Sidhu’s Bollywood directorial debut, though he has previously contributed as a dialogue writer for Saand Ki Aankh and Srikanth.

Ahead of her debut, Naomika Saran has drawn attention for her striking resemblance to her grandmother, Dimple Kapadia. She is the daughter of Rinke Khanna and businessman Sameer Saran.

Agastya Nanda made his debut with Netflix’s The Archies, directed by Zoya Akhtar, alongside Suhana Khan, Khushi Kapoor, Dot, Mihir Ahuja, Vedang Raina, and Yuvraj Menda. After earning praise for his performance, he will next be seen in Ikkis, where he stars alongside Dharmendra and Jaideep Ahlawat.

Directed by Sriram Raghavan, the film chronicles the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal. Produced by Maddock Films, further details about the project remain under wraps.

Also Read : Ikkis: Sikandar Kher joins Dharmendra, Agastya Nanda; to take on the role of an army officer

What made Ananya Panday & Sharvari to be the only two faces from their generation to be at Sabyasachi’s 25th year celebrations!

Are Ananya Panday and Sharvari the next big stars from Bollywood? Their presence at Sabyasachi’s 25-year celebrations suggests so.

Ananya Panday has been making waves in fashion and films, with hits like Dream Girl 2 in theaters and Call Me Bae, Kho Gaye Hum Kahaan, and CLTR on streaming. She is set to be part of major upcoming projects.

Sharvari is being seen as a rising star in the industry. Just three films old, she is reportedly in talks for major projects with top directors. She made a mark with last year’s blockbuster Munjya, where her song Taras topped charts for over a month. She followed it up with the streaming hit Maharaj and a powerful performance in Vedaa.

Ananya and Sharvari were the only two actors from their generation at Sabyasachi’s 25th year celebrations. Is this a new dawn of guard in Bollywood? We certainly think so and hope so.. Bollywood has thrown several interesting competitions since the time star culture came into existence and our eyes are peeled on this race between the two.

Also Read : Ananya Panday was ‘uncomfortable’ about doing Vijay Deverakonda starrer Liger, reveals father Chunky Panday

This is the first real-life character of your career. How was the experience? The experience was very different from any of the previous characters I've played. This film is inspired from some true events and these true events consist of about 22 fishermen that usually travel from this village called Srikakulam. They go all the way to Gujarat, take boats on rent from there and go out fishing and unfortunately on one trip they get caught in Pakistan waters. They drift off into Pakistan waters, get caught there and put in jail. They're in jail there for about a year and a half and then eventually released.

Did you undertake any research before plunging into your character? I had gone down to Srikakulam, the village where these fishermen are from. It's in fact a small town called D Matchilesam. I had gone down there, spent some time with them after the director had told me of the idea of the film. The film was not fully scripted then, but he just told me an idea in in a very documentary kind of form. I went down there, met these families, heard out their experiences, their challenges, what they went through in Pakistan and how their life is at sea.So a lot of these moments, these interactions with them gave me a lot of detailing and design for my character and they're very inspiring people in real. So, this inspired me a lot and motivated me a lot and they are real heroes for me in a way. If you go down to listening about all their challenges and the way they navigate through all this, it's very, very inspiring.

Tell me about it? They're out in for almost 25 to 30 days in a month and once they're out there, there's no connect to the world. Even if there is some kind of emergency at home, they don't know about it.If something happens on the boat, they have to take care of themselves out there in the ocean. No kind of network connection whatsoever. So various challenges.

How did these experiences effect you personally? So many moments like this sort of really inspired me and more than anything, this film, the soul of the film is a love story and we have drawn a few inspirations from what they have said. but obviously put it into a completely different cinematic language. But a lot of the basic emotions are inspired from the experiences that they have shared.

Thandel sounds very different from what you have done so far? So yeah, overall, the experience was very different. It's the first time I'm attempting something that's sort of based out of some true events. Usually, characters have been fictional so far. Over here it's playing something that's drawn out of a real character. So yeah, it's been a very different experience, very very new, very challenging and it's inspired me and motivated me in many ways. So it's been a very humbling experience.

It was very gracious of your Thandel team to approach Mrs Sushma Swaraj’s daughter to get clearance for using her name and presence in the film? Yes, the team has approached Sushma Swaraj's daughter, Bansuri Swaraj and we have gotten an NOC from her for whatever we are using in the film. I knew all the experiences that the fishermen went through in Pakistan. We've sat down and had this conversation with them, and they've been very transparent, and they've opened up to us on whatever they have been through or rather whatever they've said they've been through. So yeah, I know a lot about it but we are not going exactly as per what happened because of various other reasons. But the fact that these people got caught in Pakistan, were put in a jail over there for a year and a half, their release was delayed due to various political factors that were happening during that year of 2017, 2018, 2019. I believe usually they come out in a few months but their release was delayed for several months because of these political conflicts between both the countries and how various episodes during that time had delayed their release even more. So this is something we are broadly covering in the film but we are not getting down into the exact details as to what happened there and all that. That has been obviously put into a cinematic screenplay and is going to be presented to the audience.

This is also the first time you are playing a rustic character I would say this is the first time I'm playing a rooted character such as a fisherman. Yes, very close to the land, very close to the soil. It's been a great experience. It was quite a challenging transformation to be honest because I'm very different in the way I look and the way I behave from their actual real texture and lives but of course at the end of the day it is the actor's job to sort of mould into character. So the transformation for this one took me time. Like I said, a lot of clarity had come into me when I made that trip to Srikakulam and interacted with them. A lot of notes happened there. I could come back and really work with the director and detail this character out and the biggest challenge about the transformation was the slang. I speak in a Srikakulam slang which is very unique, very very different from the Telugu you usually hear and not much used in the movies. So learning the slang and adapting to this was a task and apart from that also their fishing activities like throwing the net and various other activities on the boat when they're out in the sea. There was a lot of workshop and rehearsals that happened on this front.

This is your second film with Sai Pallavi? Working with Sai Pallavi is always an amazing experience. She's an artist who sort of complements your performance with the energy she brings on screen and also she's such a transparent actor. She's always on point with her beats and she's so clear about the character. Very very involved and immersed in the script at all times. She's such a pleasure to work with.

Why do you think audiences would want to watch Thandel? This love story over here what we are showing will be very different from what we've done before. The first film Sai and I did together was the film Love Story where it was more of a boy meets girl and the treatment from there and how they sort of journey from there from that point and the conflicts that come in between. But with the film Thadel, the film opens with us in love and we're going through some conflicts from that point of time. So I would say it's a more mature kind of a treatment, mature kind of a role in terms of the love story from what you've seen us in before.

How important is Thandel to your career? Thandel is extremely important for me. As an actor I'm really looking forward to this one. Just like any other film but more than anything I've journeyed with this film for almost two years. A lot of effort has gone into the characterization, a lot of effort has been put in by me to mould into character and try to make it as true and convincing as possible for the audience. I'm really looking forward to this film sort of shaping my career in a completely new and positive direction and also this is the biggest production I've been a part of. So there is a lot of opportunity with Thandel that I'm hoping will resonate with the audience.

Also Read: Naga Chaitanya starrer Thandel to celebrate the work of late Sushma Swaraj; Producer expresses gratitude towards minister’s family

Priyanka Chopra, who seems to be enjoying the time with her family as she celebrates the marriage of her brother Siddharth Chopra and actor-model Neelam Upadhyaya in full-fledged big-fat Indian wedding style, has been dropping glimpses of the celebration on social media. After kicking off the festivities on an auspicious note with Mata Ki Chowki, the Chopra family hosted a fun-filled Haldi celebration and later, a glamorous Mehendi + Cocktail event which saw celebrities arriving in their stylish avatars. Post that, PC’s husband Nick Jonas arrived in Mumbai to add to the other festivities.

In a recent set of videos that have found its way on social media, we got a glimpse of the crazy, fun Sangeet ceremony of Siddharth Chopra and Neelam Upadhyaya. These short clips showcase a sneak-peek into the multiple dance performances for the evening. While it was not a starry affair, the very intimate ceremony saw PC and her husband Nick Jonas taking the stage by storm with multiple dance and musical performances. While Priyanka danced to tracks like ‘Darling’, ‘Dhan Ta Na’, ‘Balle Balle’, ‘Yeh Dil’ among others, Nick Jonas too performed several of his numbers and later left the audience enthralled with his performance on the Hindi track ‘Tu Maan Meri Jaan’.

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On the other hand, Priyanka Chopra Jonas also shared photos from the Mehendi ceremony on her Instagram page. She captioned it saying, “About last night… #Sidnee ki Mehndi”. In the series of photos and videos, her social media fam got a glimpse of the happenings of the ceremony where everyone including Nick’s mother Denise-Miller Jonas and PC’s cousin Mannara Chopra were seen applying Heena on their hands.

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For the unversed, Priyanka Chopra arrived in Mumbai earlier this week for the wedding festivities and is later expected to join the team of SSMB29 to complete a schedule of the highly-awaited action adventure that brings together Mahesh Babu and SS Rajamouli.

Also Read: Priyanka Chopra drops glimpses of Siddharth Chopra’s Haldi: From dancing on Punjabi beats to ‘Say Na Say Na’, the bride and groom rejoice these festivities

Triptii Dimri, although gained immense fame for her role in Animal, has featured in powerful roles in films like Laila Majnu, Bulbbul, and Qala. We hear that the actress now plans to explore the intense female-centric genre more as reports suggest that she is keen to take on the role of 70s and 80s star Parveen Babi in the latter’s biopic. According to current reports, we hear that Dimri has already started her research, even before she has signed on the dotted line.

While the biopic is expected to be a Netflix series, directed by Shonali Bose, we hear that Triptii Dimri has even started with the basic preps of understanding the life story of the late yesteryear star. “She is deeply invested in understanding Parveen Babi’s journey, from her rise to superstardom to the personal struggles she faced. Even though she hasn’t signed the dotted line yet, her commitment to preparation speaks volumes,” revealed a source to India Today. It is being said that if all goes well, this will not only mark the actress’ return to intense women-oriented lead roles but it will also be her web-series debut.

Meanwhile, talking about Parveen Babi, she was one of the highest-paid actresses of the 1970s–80s and has appeared in 70 films. Known for her glamorous roles and sexy avatars, the actress became the first Bollywood star to appear on the cover of Time magazine. Best known for films like Kaala Sona, Amar Akbar Anthony, Suhaag, Kaala Patthar, Shaan, Kranti, Kaalia and Namak Halaal, the actress retired in 1991.

On the other hand, Triptii Dimri is one of the busiest actors in B-town currently. The actress has Dhadak 2 which was announced by Dharma Productions and it will explore her chemistry with Siddhant Chaturvedi for the first time. Meanwhile, several media reports have also created buzz about the actress sharing screen space with Shahid Kapoor in Vishal Bhardwaj’s next. Apart from that, Dimri was also expected to reunite with Kartik Aaryan for an untitled love story but certain reports have suggested that the makers are not keen on casting. However, director of  the film Anurag Basu insisted that the actress continues to be a part of the film.

Also Read: Parambrata Chatterjee speaks about Bulbbul co-star Triptii Dimri: “National crushes are temporary, but class is permanent”

You have been closely associated with Junaid through his father Aamir Khan whom you have directed in Secret Superstar and Lal Singh Chaddha? I've known Junaid for almost 20 years now. He's always been a very grounded person. In fact, when I bought my first car after Secret Superstar, he said what a waste of money autos are so convenient.

What was it like directing him after knowing him from his childhood? On set, he's a complete team player. He is concerned about taking lunch break on time so that the shooting unit doesn't get hungry, he's constantly briefing the security team to maintain silence, so I get clear dialogue recorded. He's not just an actor; he's a solid partner. But I wasn't surprised.

Why? I know him and his mom and sister and father for so long and this is how they've brought him up.

And Khushi Kapoor? I was really surprised by Khushi. I didn't know her at all, so I wondered what she'd be like. But she is the most professional person I've ever met. She's ten minutes early for every meeting. She came to rehearsals and didn't even need to look at the script.

I believe she is really good with her lines. She knew every line by heart and had come with various options of delivery. When she came on board, she made a playlist of songs for me which she felt would have been Baani's playlist. I heard those songs and instantly knew that she's understood the part.

Doesn’t the current generation’s discipline surprise you? Yes! Khushi sat in on my meetings with the costume stylist and the production designer. She was really helpful in locking the colour palette for this character which really helps not just the costumes but also the visual of the whole film.

By the way, I loved your Lal Singh Chaddha? That makes two of you: my mother and you.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Advait Chandan reveals, “I enjoy trolling Aamir Khan; I am his biggest TROLL”; also adds “Just like Munna Bhai hallucinates about Gandhiji, I hallucinate about Aamir sir”

Bollywood’s biggest stars, Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, and Salman Khan, came together at the star-studded screening of Loveyapa. The event, held to celebrate the debut of Aamir’s son Junaid Khan and Sridevi’s daughter Khushi Kapoor, turned into a visual spectacle as the three Khans shared the stage. Shah Rukh Khan’s affectionate hug and playful peck on Aamir’s cheek became the highlight of the evening, while Salman Khan’s presence added to the glamour.

The screening, hosted by Phantom Studios and AGS Entertainment, was a celebration of love, humor, and fresh talent. Shah Rukh Khan, known for his warmth and charm, arrived in style and was greeted by Aamir Khan. The two superstars embraced, with SRK planting a sweet peck on Aamir’s cheek, a moment that quickly went viral. The paparazzi captured the duo posing together, creating a frame that fans will cherish.

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A Star-Studded Affair After greeting Aamir, Shah Rukh Khan turned his attention to Junaid Khan, who is making his acting debut with Loveyapa. SRK hugged Junaid warmly, showcasing his support for the young actor. The trio—Aamir, Shah Rukh, and Junaid—posed together for the cameras, marking a special moment for the Khan family. Salman Khan, who also attended the event, added to the star power, making it a rare reunion of the three Khans.

Earlier, filmmaker Karan Johar had written a review for Junaid Khan and Khushi Kapoor’s first big-screen release. “Drum roll for 2025s first love story success story… #loveyapa talks to the Tech and App obsessed Gen Z with a love story that is hugely entertaining and makes solid points with brevity and precision … its what you genuinely call a great time at the movies!!!! You will fall in love with all the characters ( terrific ensemble ) and root for the magical and endearing leads #junaidkhan and @khushikapoor … I can happily watch the film again,” read an excerpt of his post.

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It is worth mentioning here that Loveyapa is scheduled to release tomorrow, which is February 7. The film will be clashing with Himesh Reshammiya’s Badass Ravi Kumar. Considering the same, Bollywood Hungama conducted a poll on X (formerly known as Twitter) and more than 60 percent of votes are in favor of Badass Ravi Kumar.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Advait Chandan reveals that Aamir Khan has a cameo in son Junaid’s Loveyapa; will the father and son share screen space? Director also reveals, “Initially, I was not sure of Junaid and Khushi Kapoor’s casting”

Farah Khan marked her foray into direction with the star-studded Main Hoon Na that featured an ensemble cast from Shah Rukh Khan, Sushmita Sen, Zayed Khan, Amrita Rao, Kirron Kher, Boman Irani, Naseeruddin Shah, Suniel Shetty, among others. The film, which went on to become one of the biggest blockbusters, is all set to get a sequel, according to current reports. While fans of the film will definitely be excited to watch this reunion on screen, we hear that it is already on the cards.

As per a Pinkvilla report, a source was quoted telling how the film is special for Farah Khan and Shah Rukh Khan, who was also the co-producer of the film with wife Gauri Khan under the banner Red Chillies Entertainment. The source said, “Main Hoon Na is the first film produced by Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan under their banner, Red Chillies Entertainment, and the film is very close to their heart. Farah has cracked an idea for Main Hoon Na 2, and Shah Rukh has loved the route she plans to take for the sequel. Farah is presently working to crack the screenplay with her team of writers, as also the ones working with Red Chillies”.

The source also insisted that the superstar has insisted that the sequel should have a larger impact than the first instalment and has asked the choreographer-filmmaker to leave no stone unturned. “SRK is clear to not make a sequel just for the sake of it and is well aware of the fan following that Main Hoon Na has among the cinema-going audience. He has asked Farah and his in-house team of writers to honestly work on the screenplay and come up with something that surpasses the impact of first part. He is expected to hear the first draft by mid-2025 and then take a call on the same. The script is presently in the development stage,” added the source.

Speaking of the past collaborations between Shah Rukh Khan and Farah Khan as the filmmaker, the duo have joined hands for films like Main Hoon Na, Om Shanti Om, and Happy New Year. Meanwhile, on the work front, the superstar is expected to return to the silver screen with King which will also star Suhana Khan, Abhay Verma, and Abhishek Bachchan. Written by Sujoy Ghosh and directed by Siddharth Anand, the film is expected to be a gangster drama.

Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan makes SURPRISE appearance at ‘Next On Netflix 2025’; raises laughs: “People get offended by my jokes. Hence, I have stopped joking. Virarsat mein maine apne bete ko joke karna de diya hai”

Earlier this week, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, who was in Hyderabad, landed in Mumbai, leaving her fans surprised. Soon, it was revealed that the actress is in the city to attend the wedding festivities of her brother Siddharth Chopra and actress-model Neelam Upadhyaya, who got engaged in August last year amid all the hoopla. The wedding preps have already kicked off at the Chopra residence about two days – and after their mother Dr. Madhu Chopra shared a sneak-peek into the multiple functions like Mata Ki Chowki, Mehendi, and Haldi, PC too have dropped pictures from their fun Haldi ceremony.

Priyanka Chopra took to her Instagram page to share photos with the bride and groom who looked absolutely excited to take the plunge.  The actress was also seen spending time ample time with her family, dancing, having conversations, and just being in her elements with them. PC was seen shaking a leg to some traditional Punjabi beats during the ceremony along with her also grooving to Bollywood tunes and her own tracks like ‘Say Na Say Na’ from Bluffmaster. That’s not all!

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Priyanka Chopra also shared glimpses of her daughter Malti Marie Chopra Jonas where the latter was seen bonding and enjoying these functions along with her mother’s side of the family.

Meanwhile, Nick Jonas has not yet arrived for the function. On the work front, Priyanka Chopra is expected to make a comeback to Indian Cinema with SS Rajamouli and Mahesh Babu’s untitled action adventure, which is being referred to as SSMB29. The film is also expected to feature an ensemble cast of actors from different film industries. The actress also has American projects like Citadel S2, Heads of State and The Bluff in the pipeline for release.

Also Read: Priyanka Chopra, Madhu Chopra, and others start Siddharth Chopra’s wedding festivities with a pooja ceremony; watch video

On World Cancer Day 2025, Hina Khan stood out as a powerful voice in the fight against cancer, paying tribute to the courage and resilience of survivors and warriors. The celebrated actress used her platform to shine a spotlight on the importance of early detection, access to healthcare, and the government’s pivotal role in transforming lives through initiatives like Ayushman Bharat and PM-JAY.

Being a cancer survivor herself, Hina showcased her strong commitment towards spreading awareness, providing hope and inspiration for countless individuals battling cancer. In the past, through her heartfelt tributes and thoughtful messaging, she has drawn attention to the challenges faced by cancer patients and survivors, urging the importance of timely intervention and support systems. Her recognition of government programs, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, underscores her belief in the need for collective action to make healthcare accessible to millions.

Hina’s focus on health and well-being goes beyond a single day of acknowledgment. Her message this World Cancer Day was not just a tribute but a call to action for people to prioritize their health and support those in need. In a video shared by the actress, as she was reflecting on her journey, she got quite emotional while talking about her battle with cancer.

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In June 2024, the Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai actress shocked her social media fam by sharing a note on her breast cancer diagnosis. While the actress assured that she has been taking treatment and chemotherapy, she also shared glimpses of her battle. Users on the platform showcased their immense support towards the actress, hailing her as the ‘Sherni (lioness)’ for her bravery.

For the unversed, Hina is a popular television personality who has also ventured into web-shows and series.

Also Read: Photos: Hina Khan, Sonali Bendre and Priya Dutt grace World Cancer Day event by Nargis Dutt Foundation at Carter Road Amphitheatre, Bandra

Actor Sikandar Kher is all set to step into the shoes of playing an army man in the upcoming Sriram Raghavan directorial, Ikkis. For the first time Sikandar is set to be seen in an army based film. With Sriram Raghavan helming the film that is based on true events, it has already been garnering ample excitement among the industry insiders.

In Ikkis, Sikandar will portray the life of a dedicated army man and his character is expected to bring resilience, discipline, and heroism synonymous to the screen, with the Indian armed forces. The actor has already begun preparation for the role. Talking about the opportunity and his preparation, Sikandar said, "I have always looked forward to a Sriram Raghavan film... he has his own language of film making. It’s a unique perspective on a story, the way it unfolds is so gripping, and for me as an actor I’ve always wanted to be a part of his cinematic universe.”

Going further, he also opened up about his collaboration with Maddock Films and said, “And then we have a visionary producer like Dinesh Vijan, the kind of films he’s backed and how he’s stood behind them with complete faith is just amazing.  Both of them along with Poonam Vijan make a terrific team. The cool thing about being an actor is getting a chance to do things you normally would’nt get to do. You see and learn so many things that you wouldn’t otherwise experience. That’s exactly what’s happening on Ikkis - the background of the armed forces, the war and especially the heroes we are playing is not just an honour but a privilege. I’m lucky to be a part of this film, and I hope I do well.”

Coming to the film, Ikkis marks the theatrical debut of Agastya Nanda, grandson of Amitabh Bachchan, who made his film debut alongside Suhana Khan and Khushi Kapoor in The Archies. Set against the backdrop of the 1971 war, the film follows the life of second Lieutenant Arun Khetrapal essayed by Nanda. The film also features Dharmendra, Jaideep Ahlawat, among others in key roles.

Also Read: Ikkis: Agastya Nanda teases about Sriram Raghavan’s Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal biopic with a new photo