Actor-singer Nick Jonas recently melted hearts by sharing a playful glimpse into his life as a devoted ‘girl dad.’ On Tuesday, March 18, 2025, the 32-year-old star took to Instagram to post a charming picture of himself decked out in colorful hair accessories, courtesy of his adorable daughter, Malti Marie. The heartwarming moment showcased Nick’s playful side and resonated with fans who adore his journey into fatherhood alongside his wife, actress Priyanka Chopra.

A Playful Transformation by Malti Marie The image Nick shared features him sporting an array of vibrant hairpins meticulously placed in his hair, a clear testament to Malti Marie’s creativity. The background of the photo adds to the whimsical vibe, adorned with pink and white balloons that perfectly complement the lighthearted scene. Captioning the post with the simple yet endearing phrase, “Girl dad life,” Nick embraced the joys and quirks of raising a daughter with open arms. Fans flooded the comments section with praise, with remarks like “This is the cutest thing ever!” and “Malti’s got her dad wrapped around her little finger!”

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Speaking of the professional front, Nick Jonas and Adrienne Warren are starring in the first-ever Broadway production of Jason Robert Brown's The Last Five Years. It follows two New Yorkers, rising author Jamie (Jonas) and aspiring actress Cathy (Warren), as they fall in and out of love over the course of five years. Their timelines only intersect once throughout the show.  It is directed by Whitney White, with previews beginning on March 18. The official opening is on April 6 at the Hudson Theatre.

Also Read: Priyanka Chopra’s mom recalls Nick Jonas’ heartfelt proposal request before their wedding: “I was so amazed”

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to kick off with a star-studded bang, as Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra, and Salman Khan are expected to attend the opening ceremony, as per a report by Hindustan Times. This grand event, marking the start of the 18th IPL season, promises a dazzling blend of cricket and entertainment, with Salman Khan also using the platform to promote his upcoming film Sikandar. Here’s everything you need to know about this much-anticipated spectacle.

IPL 2025 Opening Ceremony: Date, Time, and Venue The IPL 2025 opening ceremony is scheduled for March 22, 2025, at 6:00 PM IST, just before the toss for the season’s first match between defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Hosted at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata, the event will set the tone for a thrilling season that runs until May 25, 2025, featuring 74 matches across 13 venues in India. Fans worldwide can catch the live action on Jio Hotstar and Star Sports Network, ensuring no one misses out on the excitement. Bollywood Stars Take Center Stage The presence of Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra, and Salman Khan elevates the ceremony to a must-watch affair. Shah Rukh Khan, the charismatic co-owner of KKR, is expected to cheer on his team as they face RCB in the opener. SRK’s attendance is a major draw for fans and a boost for KKR’s morale.

Priyanka Chopra, a global superstar with a massive following, adds an international flair to the event. While her exact role—whether as a guest or performer—remains unconfirmed, her inclusion underscores the IPL’s growing appeal beyond Indian borders. Meanwhile, Salman Khan will seize the spotlight to promote his highly anticipated action film Sikandar, leveraging the IPL’s massive audience to create buzz ahead of its release.

Reportedly, The celebrity lineup doesn’t stop there. Reports suggest Vicky Kaushal and Sanjay Dutt will also attend, while Arijit Singh, Shraddha Kapoor, and Varun Dhawan are slated to deliver electrifying performances. An unexpected twist comes with the potential appearance of American band OneRepublic, promising a fusion of Western and Bollywood vibes that could redefine the IPL opening experience. The opening ceremony will be held on March 22, 2025, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.

Also Read: Priyanka Chopra’s mom recalls Nick Jonas’ heartfelt proposal request before their wedding: “I was so amazed”

Aamir Khan celebrated his 60th birthday and on this occasion, the Aamir Khan film festival was held in cinemas across the country. As part of the celebrations, his 22 memorable films were re-released - Dangal, 3 Idiots, Lagaan, Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke, Raja Hindustani, Ghajini, Akele Hum Akele Tum, Andaz Apna Apna, Taare Zameen Par, Sarfarosh, Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar, Talaash, Fanaa, Dil Chahta Hai, Dil, PK, Dhoom 3, Rang De Basanti, Ghulam, Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak, Secret Superstar and Laal Singh Chaddha. Dil Chahta Hai was one of the films which was expected to get the maximum footfall due to its comic moments, cult following, music etc. Sadly, very few shows of the film took place across the country, disappointing fans.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Dil Chahta Hai’s shows were available for booking on the ticket booking apps. But its show wasn’t played on the first two days. It is said that the KDM wasn’t issued. A few shows of the film finally played on Sunday post-noon and that’s about it. There was a heavy demand for the film. The theatres had to issue refund to those who booked their tickets. In some cinemas, Taare Zameen Par and other Aamir Khan classics were shown in its place and patrons were given the option to watch those films instead of Dil Chahta Hai. Some agreed but most of them opted for a refund.”

The source continued, “This is the reason why there are no videos on social media of people dancing to ‘Koi Kahe Kehta Rahe’ or ‘Woh Ladki Hai Kahaan’ in the cinema halls, the way it happened with ‘Balam Pichkari’ (Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani) or ‘Mahi Ve’ (Kal Ho Naa Ho) because barely any shows were played in the country.”

On the weekdays, no show of Dil Chahta Hai has been scheduled anywhere. Patrons are hoping that it’ll be back in cinemas in the coming weekend. The Aamir Khan festival will go on until March 27.

An industry insider commented, “Not just Dil Chahta Hai but even the other cult film, 3 Idiots, is no longer playing anywhere. On the other hand, films that are not as exciting as these two are playing with multiple shows like Dil, Talaash etc. The organizers should have planned this in a better manner and ensured that films with high demand have daily shows.”

Even Andaz Apna Apna didn’t get many shows but patrons are not complaining as its full-fledged release will be happening in April, as confirmed by Priti Sinha, the daughter of its producer Vinay Sinha.

Also Read: 23 years of Dil Chahta Hai EXCLUSIVE: Sonali Kulkarni recalls, “We rehearsed for ‘Woh Ladki Hai Kahan’ in 15-20 minutes”

When Priyanka Chopra Jonas announced her roka with American singer Nick Jonas in 2018, fans were pleasantly surprised. One of India's most beloved stars was set to marry a Hollywood pop sensation. After just a few months of dating, Nick realized Priyanka was the one and proposed in Greece. But before the wedding, he won hearts by asking Priyanka’s mother, Dr. Madhu Chopra, for her hand in marriage in the most respectful and heartfelt way.

In a chat with Filmygyan, Priyanka Chopra’s mother, Madhu Chopra, recalled, “Ek din Nick mujhe bola ki main aapko lunch pe leke jaana chahta hun. Leke gaye lunch pe. Wahan poochne lage ki kaisa ladka aapne socha hai Priyanka ke liye. Maine bataya falana, falana boxes hone chahiye tick. Toh mera haath pakad ke kehta ‘Main woh aadmi hun. Can I be that person? Aur main aapko promise karta hun ek bhi aapka box untick nahi hoga’. I was so like, amazed and unprepared. But I was very happy because itna suthhar ladka (handsome or nice boy) hai. Very like a... describe karna bohot difficult hai, I barely knew him that time but toh bhi ek impression aata hai ki solid hai.”

How adorable is that? Priyanka and Nick’s proposal story is even tied to their matching tattoos. In an interview, Priyanka said, “When he proposed, he asked me, that I checked all his boxes, and would I check another one.”

To mark this milestone, the couple got matching tattoos—Priyanka has a check and a box behind each ear, while Nick has the same design on his arms. Not only did they check each other’s boxes, but Nick also passed the checklist Priyanka’s mother had in mind for her future husband.

Also Read : Madhu Chopra recalls heated exchange with Dostana director over Priyanka Chopra’s health: “If you want her to die on your set, I’ll send her. But..”

Harman Baweja is happy with the super-success of his film Mrs. The Sanya Malhotra starrer has amassed considerable viewership and has also become a huge talking point on the internet. Bollywood Hungama exclusively spoke to the producer about this film and then also about his father, the reputed producer-director Harry Baweja.

Harry Baweja did several memorable films with Ajay Devgn. Since the current trend is to re-release older classics, we asked him if he also plan to bring back his father’s films in cinemas again? Harman Baweja replied, “I have thought about it for sure, of getting Dilwale (1994), Diljale (1996) and Qayamat (2003), the three films of Ajay Devgn back on the big screen. But as of now, there are no concrete plans as such.”

Harman Baweja has spoken about working on Qayamat but his name doesn’t appear in the beginning and end credits. When asked about it, he said, “I used to sit beside my dad’s desk. I was his EA, his PA, his assistant director, assistant producer, production controller and assistant editor. I was the jack of all (laughs). I had just come back from film school and it was my training ground. That was when he was finishing a film named Deewane (2000) after which we got into Qayamat. In between, I produced Yeh Kya Ho Raha Hai (2002).”

He continued, “I was in office and I was doing everything that you are supposed to do for those 7 years. Also, when you are working under your dad, no one cares about all these things (being credited). You are training more than anyone. Yeh Kya Ho Raha Hai (2002) was one film where I had worked hands-on. I also produced as well as wrote a film called Speed (2007).”

When asked about the bond that Harry Baweja and Ajay Devgn shared, Harry Baweja replied, “They had a great bond and a great understanding. It used to be great seeing them interact. The conversation would be minimal and yet, they would get each other since they had done so many films together. Ajay sir anyway is known to be minimal in his conversation. My dad is also a very to-the-point guy. That’s what they loved about each other – they discussed what they needed to discuss and that was the end of it. Both made some blockbuster films. I hope and pray that one day, I can make such blockbuster films too. If I could pull off half of what my dad did, I’d be a very content man!”

Ajay Devgn is known to be a prankster. Did he play pranks on him too? Harman Baweja laughed and stated, “I was the kid on the set. Also, I was more protected than anyone else. Moreover, my dad was a tough taskmaster. I don’t think anyone had the heart to pull a prank on me. They must be thinking, ‘He’s anyway suffering a lot. His father is making him work like a maniac. Let’s leave him alone and catch someone else’ (laughs).”

When asked about how his father Harry Baweja was doing, Harman Baweja revealed, “He’s good. He’s chilling. I have a son and a daughter. Both are under 2 ½ years of age. He’s enjoying being a grandfather a lot and that makes me happy. He started from scratch, worked all his life and built the banner. At least, now he’s spending time with his grandkids and other extended family members. If I come home late, he now asks me, ‘Have you eaten your dinner? I am like, ‘When was the last time you ever asked me if I ate?’ (laughs)! It was always ‘Kaam khatam kiya ki nahin?’! Now, I see a different side of my father and it's sweet (smiles). It’s also a wholesome experience to watch mom and dad evolve into overtly loving grandparents.”

The fact that Mrs and his other projects have got acclaim must have also made Harry Baweja proud. Harman nodded, “I update my father on everything I am doing. Once or twice, I run him through everything – every song I record and every script we are working on.”

Forthcoming projects

Harman Baweja then shared details about his upcoming The Boy From Andamans. Not much is known about it. Harman said, “That is with Imagine Entertainment; they have made some phenomenal films in the West. Richie Mehta has also come on board. I am very excited about this collaboration. We are trying to break boundaries. It’s a story from India but with Richie’s vision, it just helps as we take this Indian story to the world.”

Will The Boy From Andamans be released on the big screen? He answered, “Yes. I’ll reveal more about it later.”

He’s also excited about Dil Ka Darwaaza Khol Na Darling, starring Siddhant Chaturvedi, Wamiqa Gabbi and Jaya Bachchan. He exulted, “It’s a fun film and has a great star cast. Vikas Bahl is one of the few directors at present who can cut across so many genres. From Shaitaan to Super 30 to Queen, the guy has managed to switch genres successfully. It also has romance apart from comedy and it’s a feel-good film.”

Harman continued, “We also have Maharagni with Kajol. Both these films have been targeted for the big screen. I am also working on a couple more projects which will be announced soon.”

Finally, would he like to act again after his bravura performance in Scoop? Harman Baweja said, “Honestly, I am kind of loving this space I am in right now. In the near future, I want to keep my blinders on and focus on creating beautiful films (smiles).”

Also Read: Harman Baweja humbled by love as Sanya Malhotra starrer Mrs. wins Best OTT Film and Best Actress awards

Sourav Ganguly is officially making his acting debut in the television series Khakee: The Bengal Chapter. Netflix confirmed the news with a promotional video released on Monday, March 17. The highly anticipated series is co-directed by Debatma Mandal and Tushar Kanti Ray.

The crime thriller series will premiere on Netflix starting March 20. Announcing the release, Netflix wrote on Instagram, “The Bengal Tiger meets the Bengal Chapter. Watch Khakee: The Bengal Chapter out March 20, only on Netflix.”

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The video begins with the director requesting the Prince of Calcutta, Sourav Ganguly, to portray a fearless and honest police officer.

The action-packed video, released on March 17, unveils Sourav Ganguly’s look as a police officer, showcasing his intense rage as he draws inspiration from a former coach he had past controversies with. In a humorous twist, he is asked to beat up a criminal, and while holding a wooden stick, he playfully references different cricket strokes.

Sharing his thoughts on Khakee: The Bengal Chapter, Sourav Ganguly stated that the Khakee franchise is one of his favorites, as reported by OTTplay. The series features a star-studded cast, including Saswata Chatterjee, Ritwik Bhowmik, Aadil Zafar Khan, Pooja Chopra, Aakanksha Singh, Mimoh Chakraborty, and Shraddha Das.

Interestingly, Khakee: The Bengal Chapter will be the first Hindi show on Netflix to stream simultaneously in both Hindi and Bengali. Starring Jeet Madnani, Prosenjit Chatterjee, Parambrata Chatterjee, and Chitrangada Singh in lead roles, the series serves as a standalone sequel to Neeraj Pandey’s Khakee: The Bihar Chapter. Set in Kolkata, the gripping story has been created by Pandey.

Set in 2002, the story centers on the death of a police officer in Bengal. The series follows IPS Arjun Maitra as he takes on ruthless gangsters and corrupt politicians, fighting to restore law and order in a crime-ridden region.

Also Read : Khakee: The Bengal Chapter – Netflix’s thrilling new chapter unveils Jeet and Prosenjit Chatterjee’s epic collaboration

Bollywood diva Malaika Arora found herself at the center of an unexpected controversy during the filming of Hip Hop India Season 2. The popular dance reality show, judged by Arora alongside choreographer-director Remo D’Souza, took an awkward turn when a 16-year-old contestant made suggestive gestures toward her during his performance. The incident, which left Malaika visibly uncomfortable, was captured on video and has since gone viral.

What Happened on Hip Hop India Season 2? The incident unfolded during a recent episode of Hip Hop India Season 2, which streams on Amazon MX Player and showcases India’s top hip-hop talent. While judging a contestant’s performance, Malaika noticed the young dancer directing inappropriate gestures her way, including winking and blowing flying kisses. Clearly taken aback, the actress and fitness icon didn’t hold back her disapproval. In the now-viral footage, she can be heard reprimanding the teenager, sternly demanding, “Mummy ka phone number do!” (Give me your mother’s phone number!).

Malaika’s reaction was laced with disbelief as she questioned the audacity of the 16-year-old contestant. “He is winking. He is giving flying kisses,” she exclaimed, highlighting her discomfort with his behavior. The moment quickly escalated into a teaching opportunity, with Malaika addressing the inappropriateness of his actions, especially given his young age.

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The teen’s actions didn’t sit well with his peers either. Other contestants on the show echoed Malaika’s sentiments, with one dancer commenting, “It was right to scold him. He did it in front of her?” The consensus among the participants underscored that the boy’s behavior crossed a line, adding weight to Malaika’s on-the-spot reprimand.

Also Read: Hip Hop India returns for Season 2 on Amazon MX Player with Remo D’Souza and Malaika Arora, watch trailer

Renowned filmmaker Imtiaz Ali recently opened up on the underwhelming performance of Love Aaj Kal (2020), starring Kartik Aaryan and Sara Ali Khan, during an insightful conversation on the YouTube channel Game Changer. The director candidly admitted to missteps in the film’s execution, offering a glimpse into his creative process and the lessons he’s taken from the experience.

Love Aaj Kal Lost Its Ease In the interview, Imtiaz acknowledged that he tried to pack too much into Love Aaj Kal, a successor to his 2009 hit of the same name starring Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone. “I could have done 2-3 things differently,” he confessed, noting that the film’s ambitious scope compromised its simplicity. “The ease of the film was compromised. It became thick, people didn’t understand what happened. It seemed like this didn’t come from the heart,” he explained. This lack of clarity, he believes, left audiences disconnected from the narrative—a stark contrast to the effortless charm of his earlier works.

The director also pointed out a critical flaw: the film lacked freshness. Despite featuring a new story and a younger cast in Kartik Aaryan and Sara Ali Khan—two actors riding high on popularity at the time—Love Aaj Kal failed to capture the magic of its predecessor or resonate with viewers. Released on Valentine’s Day 2020, the film received mixed reviews and underperformed at the box office, marking a rare stumble in Imtiaz’s otherwise celebrated career. No Blame on Kartik and Sara Notably, Imtiaz refrained from attributing the film’s failure to its lead actors. Kartik Aaryan, fresh off successes like Pyaar Ka Punchnama 2 and Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety, and Sara Ali Khan, who had debuted with Kedarnath, were seen as a promising pair, especially amid rumors of their off-screen romance during filming. However, Imtiaz’s critique focused solely on his directorial choices rather than the performances of his cast.

Delving deeper, Imtiaz shared his thoughts on the challenges of making sequels. “Whenever a sequel is made, there must be a strong reason behind it,” he remarked. While he believed he had a compelling new story for Love Aaj Kal, he admitted that he failed to communicate its essence effectively—particularly during the film’s promotional phase. “In a way, yes. Though I had a new story in Love Aaj Kal 2, still, the film didn’t work,” he said. This realization has made him wary of revisiting his past successes unless the justification is undeniable. “Unless it is really necessary, I am not interested in making sequels,” he added.

That said, Imtiaz left the door ajar for future possibilities, hinting at a potential exception. “But never say never—Rockstar 2 may be nice,” he concluded with a glimmer of optimism, sparking curiosity among fans of his 2011 cult classic starring Ranbir Kapoor.

Also Read: Sharvari to join hands with Diljit Dosanjh, Vedang Raina for an Imtiaz Ali directorial: Report

The blockbuster trio of producer Sajid Nadiadwala, superstar Salman Khan, and choreographer Ahmed Khan is all set to come together for yet another song from the much-awaited Sikandar. With the momentum perfectly built up after the release of the film's action-packed teaser and two blockbuster songs—a romantic track, 'Zohra Jabeen,' and the fun Holi festive treat, 'Bam Bam Bhole'—the audience will now be treated to yet another song.

According to an independent industry source, "The next song of Sikandar will see producer Sajid Nadiadwala, superstar Salman Khan, and choreographer Ahmed Khan coming together after 'Jumme Ki Raat' from Kick after almost 10 years. While the song will be grand, its teaser will be released today, giving the audience a slight glimpse."

Ahmed Khan is a renowned choreographer in the film industry. He has previously worked with producer Sajid Nadiadwala on films like Kick, Heropanti, Baaghi 2, Baaghi 3, and Heropanti 2. Having witnessed the trio of Sajid Nadiadwala, Salman Khan, and Ahmed Khan create magic with 'Jumme Ki Raat,' which became a blockbuster upon its release, their collaboration in Sikandar is bound to deliver yet another masterpiece.

As Sikandar builds momentum, the curiosity and anticipation continue to skyrocket. Salman Khan will be returning to the big screen during Eid 2025 with Sikandar, alongside Rashmika Mandanna. Produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and directed by A.R. Murugadoss, the film promises to be an explosive cinematic experience with plenty more surprises.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Salman Khan-starrer Sikandar release date to be announced in a couple of days; song teaser drops tomorrow; trailer to be out a week before release

Renowned composer A.R. Rahman was admitted to a private hospital in Chennai on Sunday morning after experiencing chest pain. He arrived at the hospital around 7:30 am, where medical professionals conducted tests, including an electrocardiogram (ECG) and an echocardiogram, to assess his condition. ​

Sources indicate that Rahman may undergo an angiogram, a procedure that provides detailed images of the heart's blood vessels, to further evaluate his cardiac health. A team of specialists is currently monitoring his condition closely.

A.R. Rahman, an Oscar-winning composer, has a distinguished career spanning over three decades, with contributions to both Indian and international cinema. His sudden hospitalization has raised concerns among fans and the music community alike.​

As this is a developing story, further updates on Rahman's health are awaited. We will continue to provide information as it becomes available.

Also Read: AR Rahman unveils the first track from My Melbourne, sung by Afghani singer Aryana Sayeed

The re-release era is going on in full force and films of various genres are coming back on the big screen. Most of the re-releases are not getting the desired response. Yet, the trend continues, more so after the surprise success of films like Rockstar, Laila Majnu, Tumbbad, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani and above all, Sanam Teri Kasam, which is the highest re-release grosser. Now, it has come to light that one more film is getting ready to be back in cinemas – Hunterrr (2015).

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Hunterrr will complete 10 years on March 20. The film has a recall value due to its subject, sex scenes, performances and ensemble cast. Hence, the makers are planning to re-release the film on this joyous occasion.”

The source continued, “Once the plan is confirmed, the makers will look for an apt release date. It now remains to be seen if it arrives this Friday – March 20 – or on a later date.”

An industry insider commented, “Until now, family-friendly films have mainly got a re-release. Very few ‘A’ rated films have had a re-run like Sarfarosh, Satya, Gangs Of Wasseypur, Ghulam, etc. Moreover, Hunterrr stands out from these adult films as it’s a sex comedy. In fact, this genre hasn’t produced any significant film in a long time and there’s an audience for it. Hence, it won’t be a surprise if Hunterrr also becomes a sleeper re-release success.”

Hunterrr starred Gulshan Devaiah, Radhika Apte, Sai Tamhankar and Veera Saxena and was about a sex addict man and his various adventures. It was directed by Harshvardhan Kulkarni, who later made Badhaai Do (2022).

Meanwhile, this Friday saw the re-release of memorable Aamir Khan films like 3 Idiots, Akele Hum Akele Tum, Dangal, Dhoom 3, Dil, Dil Chahta Hai, Fanaa, Ghajini, Ghulam, Hum Hain Rahi Pyaar Ke, Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar, Laal Singh Chaddha, Lagaan, PK, Raja Hindustani, Rang De Basanti, Sarfarosh, Taare Zameen Par, Talaash etc. The Aamir Khan film festival has been held to celebrate the superstar’s 60th birthday. Next week will see the re-release of Yaariyan (2014). Half Girlfriend (2017) is expected to be released in April. Awarapan (2007) and Aashiqui 2 (2013) are also in the queue to arrive in cinemas again. Bollywood Hungama broke the news a few days back that Sanjay Dutt-starrer Jung (2000) will re-release on May 9 to coincide with its 25th anniversary.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Saie Tamhankar says she “faced more criticism for Hunterrr than No Entry Pudhe Dhoka Aahey”

Sonam Nair’s Amazon Prime Video show Dupahiya has been getting a positive response from the audiences and critics alike. Starring Gajraj Rao, Renuka Shahane, Sparsh Shrivastava, Bhuvan Arora and Shivani Raghuvanshi, it is a humorous show set in a village. Nair talks about the show and more in an interview with us.

From Gippi (2013) to Dupahiya, you have come a very long way. Has it been an arduous journey? 

It has had its ups and downs, but I can safely say I always stuck to my guns, and worked on projects that I felt passionate about instead of chasing stars or budgets. A slow and steady approach pays off better in the end, I feel. And the ride has been rewarding.

How did Dupahiya come your way?

Shubh and Salona, our producers and co-creators, reached out to me for the project. The script was almost all done, and had been developed at Amazon Prime already. It was a gift that was handed to me, and I’ll always be grateful. Especially because no one was thinking of me for such projects before, figuring I could only do urban setups and women-led projects. Shubh and Salona knew that I could balance quirky humour with emotions and thankfully reached out.

Were you at all familiar with the Bihari milieu? 

The exact milieu wasn’t familiar to me, but I have grown up in a very small town in Bengal called Rishra. So, the first eighteen years of my life were very simple and peaceful, away from any hustle-bustle. Somewhere, I was craving that again when this project came to me, and took me back to the simple joys of life. We did grow up with quite a few Bihari neighbours around us, as Bengal is close to Bihar. But for this particular dialect we hired a coach who not only trained all the actors, but trained me too.

The humour and the plot is so fertile and original, how closely did you work with the writers in getting there? 

That is all credit to the writers Avinash Dwivedi and Chirag Garg, and the guiding hands of Shubh and Salona. When the script came to me, it was 90 percent done. I just came my small inputs as a director, just asked them to edit or shuffle around a few things. When you’re already handed gold, you don’t want to mess with it. I was blown away by how fresh the script was.

The actors are mostly bang on. How on earth did you zero in on these irreplaceables? 

We got very lucky with our cast, I have to agree. I have never worked with such a talented ensemble before where we just can’t choose who has done the best job. They’re all so good! Our casting director Romil was a huge boon as he had access to some of the most terrific actors from the heartland. For the primary casting, besides the obvious parameters of everyone fitting their roles and having some good work behind them, I had two parameters. One was that whoever we cast must be as excited about this script and project as I am. I didn’t want anyone who is doing this as just another job. And the second was that they have to be good human beings. Once these two things are sorted, I knew the audience would he happy because we were all happy making it. Rest was just on instinct, really.

Was it tough acclimatizing yourself to the characters’ milieu and language?

All the actors did about two months of dialect coaching, and I sat for almost all those sessions with the actors. So, that I could just inhale the dialect and even start thinking in it. By the time we got to shoot, I knew the dialect and then the challenge was to make it authentic but also accessible to the rest of the audience, who are Hindi speaking. As far as village life goes, we really took notes in prep during our visits to the different villages in MP and UP, where we shot the series, pertaining to production design, costumes, props, etc. However, because this village was supposed to be the ‘Belgium of Bihar’, we definitely chose to make the village look aspirational and vibrant.

How do you respond to the comparisons with Panchayat?

We are all very flattered by the comparison, as to be compared to one of the most successful and loved shows on OTT is a big compliment. We’ll be more than happy to have the Panchayat fans come and watch our show. Amazon Prime will have to decide about a second season, but I know I would love to return to Dhadakpur. In the meantime, I’m developing a few ideas. Though I want to take in all the learnings from Dupahiya post release, and only then decide which way to go next.

Also Read: Sparsh Srivastava on the challenges of doing comedy in Dupahiya, “Initially, there was a sense of fear because…”

On March 15, 2025, Bollywood’s beloved actress Alia Bhatt celebrated her 32nd birthday, and the occasion was made even more special by a touching gesture from her half-sister, Pooja Bhatt. Pooja took to social media to extend her birthday wishes, sharing a nostalgic black-and-white throwback picture that captured a tender moment between the siblings, melting the hearts of fans across the internet.

Pooja Bhatt’s Sweet Birthday Wish for Alia Pooja Bhatt’s birthday post for Alia was a trip down memory lane, featuring a rare black-and-white photograph of a toddler Alia spending quality time with her elder sister. In the image, a young Pooja is seen holding little Alia in her arms, both gazing at the camera with gentle smiles. Alia looks adorable as she leans into Pooja, who exudes warmth and affection.

Accompanying the picture, Pooja wrote a heartfelt caption: “Happy Birthday @aliaabhatt May you always be childlike & true.” The message reflects Pooja’s wish for Alia to retain her innocent, joyful spirit—a quality that has endeared the actress to millions of fans over the years.

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Alia’s Pre-Birthday Celebrations and a Sudden Return Alia Bhatt kicked off her birthday celebrations a little early this year. On March 13, she and her husband, Ranbir Kapoor, hosted a pre-birthday celebration with the media, giving fans a glimpse into their festive mood. The couple then headed to Alibaug, planning to ring in Holi and Alia’s birthday in a more intimate setting. However, their plans were cut short due to an unfortunate event.

Alia and Ranbir rushed back to Mumbai after learning about the demise of their close friend and filmmaker Ayan Mukerji’s father, Deb Mukerji. The couple returned to the city to support Ayan during this difficult time, showcasing their deep bond with the director, who has collaborated with them on projects like Brahmastra.

Also Read: Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor rush back to Mumbai to support Ayan Mukerji after father Deb Mukerji’s demise

Actor Amitabh Bachchan is gearing up for an action-packed return to the dystopian sci-fi universe of Kalki 2898 AD. According to a recent report by Mid-Day, the veteran actor will commence shooting for the highly anticipated sequel, Kalki 2, in May 2025. With an expanded role as Ashwatthama, Bachchan’s fans are in for a treat as the sequel promises a grander narrative, intense action sequences, and a clash of titans featuring co-stars Prabhas, Kamal Haasan, and Deepika Padukone.

After wrapping up the emotionally charged 16th season of Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC), Bachchan is shifting his focus to this cinematic spectacle, directed by Nag Ashwin. Here’s everything we know about his upcoming venture.

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Expanded Screen Time and Action as Ashwatthama A source close to the production revealed, “He begins shooting in May, and his screen time has been increased. Filming is expected to continue till June 15.” Bachchan, who portrayed the immortal Ashwatthama from the Indian epic Mahabharata in the first film, will dive deeper into the character in Kalki 2. The insider added, “As Bachchan plays an immortal being, he will also be seen doing more action with weapons.”

The sequel will pick up from the events of Kalki 2898 AD (2024), focusing on Ashwatthama’s journey alongside Bhairava/Karna (Prabhas) as they work to rescue Sumathi’s (Deepika Padukone) unborn child. The stakes are higher this time, with the duo facing off against the sinister Supreme Commander Yaskin, played by Kamal Haasan. “It will be grander than the last one as Prabhas and Bachchan also confront the evil Yaskin. So, three titans will clash,” the source teased. New Worlds and Tribes in Kalki 2 Kalki 2 is set to expand the universe introduced in the first film with the addition of a fourth world, Flux Lands, and a new tribe called the Nomens. While a 30-day filming schedule was completed last year, the team still has significant action portions left to shoot. A massive set has been constructed on the outskirts of Hyderabad, where the crew will film key sequences. Notably, the first film was shot in Shankarpally, and this time, the production is scaling up for an even more ambitious vision. Bachchan is expected to begin prepping for his role by the end of March 2025, ensuring he’s ready to bring Ashwatthama’s heroic yet complex persona to life once filming kicks off.

Amitabh Bachchan’s Packed Schedule Post-Kalki 2, Bachchan shows no signs of slowing down. After wrapping up the sequel by mid-June, he is slated to start shooting for the next season of Kaun Banega Crorepati in July 2025, with the quiz show set to air in August. The 82-year-old legend continues to juggle his commitments seamlessly, balancing high-octane films with his beloved television presence.

As Amitabh Bachchan prepares to wield weapons and dive into action once again, Kalki 2 is shaping up to be one of 2025’s most anticipated releases. Stay tuned for more updates on this epic sci-fi saga!

Also Read: Amitabh Bachchan on the popularity of ‘Rang Barse’: “We had no idea that the song would go so far”

Bollywood power couple Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor cut short their Alibaug getaway to return to Mumbai upon hearing the news of filmmaker Ayan Mukerji’s father, Deb Mukerji’s passing. The duo had traveled to Alibaug from the Gateway of India on Thursday to celebrate Holi and Alia’s birthday on March 15, 2025. However, they immediately returned to stand by their close friend Ayan during this difficult time.

Deb Mukerji: A Legacy in Indian Cinema Deb Mukerji, a prominent figure in the Samarth-Mukherjee family, passed away on the morning of March 14, 2025, due to age-related health issues, as confirmed by his spokesperson. His funeral took place later that day at the Pawan Hans Crematorium in Juhu, Mumbai. Born in 1941 in Kanpur, Deb was a veteran actor with a career spanning decades in the Indian film industry.

Deb Mukerji hailed from one of Bollywood’s most illustrious families. His mother, Satidevi, was the only sister of iconic actors Ashok Kumar, Anup Kumar, and the legendary singer-actor Kishore Kumar. His siblings included actor Joy Mukherjee and filmmaker Shomu Mukherjee, the latter being the husband of actress Tanuja and father to actresses Kajol and Rani Mukerji, making Deb their uncle.

Deb Mukerji’s cinematic journey began in the 1960s with small roles in films like Tu Hi Meri Zindagi and Abhinetri. Over the years, he transitioned into supporting roles, appearing in popular movies such as Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikander (1992) and King Uncle (1993). His last on-screen appearance was a cameo in Vishal Bhardwaj’s 2009 film Kaminey. Though he stepped away from the limelight in his later years, his contributions to Indian cinema and his family’s enduring legacy remain noteworthy. Ayan Mukerji’s Bond with Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor Ayan Mukerji shares a deep bond with Alia and Ranbir, often described as more than just professional collaborators—they are family. The trio worked together on the ambitious fantasy film Brahmastra, which marked a significant milestone in their careers. Beyond Brahmastra, Ranbir and Ayan have a history of successful collaborations, including the beloved films Wake Up Sid and Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani.

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Ranbir had recently spoken about reuniting with Ayan for the sequel of Brahmastra. During Alia’s pre-birthday celebration with media, Ranbir had said, “Brahmastra 2 is something that Ayan has been nurturing as a dream for a very long time. He is currently working on War 2. Once this is released, he will start the pre-production of Brahmastra 2. It is happening. We haven’t announced much of it, but then there will be some really interesting announcements (which will be made soon) regarding Brahmastra 2.

For the unversed, Ayan is currently helming Hrithik Roshan, Jr NTR and Kiara Adavni starrer War 2.

Also Read: Ayan Mukerji’s father, veteran actor Deb Mukherjee passes away at 83

The Diplomat has released today in cinemas and is the grand Holi release of the year. It stars John Abraham and Sadia Khateeb in leading roles and is inspired by true events. When moviegoers venture out to see this acclaimed film, they’ll be surprised to see blockbuster producer Dinesh Vijan being mentioned in the opening slate under ‘Special Thanks’. Bollywood Hungama decided to find out the reason behind it. Turns out that there’s a Chhaava connection to it.

Bollywood Hungama exclusively spoke to The Diplomat’s director Shivam Nair and asked him the reason behind Dinesh Vijan’s mention. He replied, “He is mentioned because he agreed to attach the teaser as well as the trailer of The Diplomat with Chhaava. He agreed to do so at John’s request. John then asked me to thank Dinesh Vijan in the film in the opening disclaimer.”

Shivam Nair added, “We were very excited about Chhaava. We knew that it was a film which was surely going to work. Hence, it was the perfect film to showcase our assets.”

Chhaava was released on February 14, that is, exactly a month before The Diplomat. It stars Vicky Kaushal, Akshaye Khanna, Rashmika Mandanna and Divya Dutta and is the story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s bravery. Produced by Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock Films, the historical drama is directed by Laxman Utekar. Chhaava is still running successfully in cinemas and is one of the biggest blockbusters of Hindi cinema. It has already crossed the Rs. 500 crores mark.

Interestingly, one of the upcoming films of Maddock Films, Tehran, stars John Abraham. This gritty thriller, which also stars Manushi Chhillar and is directed by Arun Gopalan, is expected to be released this year.

Coming back to The Diplomat, it is based on the life of Uzma Ahmed and how she got trapped in Pakistan. How India’s High Commission helps her forms the crux of the film.

Also Read: Anurag Kashyap praises The Diplomat, says John Abraham delivered a “Very good performance”

Bollywood actor John Abraham met India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, in New Delhi on Thursday, March 13, 2025, just a day before the theatrical release of his much-anticipated film, The Diplomat. The meeting, which sparked buzz across social media, highlighted a meaningful exchange between the actor and the diplomat.

A Meeting of Minds: Diplomacy, Football, and the Northeast Dr. S. Jaishankar took to X to share his thoughts on the interaction, posting, “An interesting conversation with @TheJohnAbraham on his new movie The Diplomat. As also on football, the North East and our respective worlds.” Accompanying the post were photos of the duo, including one where they appeared to be holding a football jersey with the number 9 and Jaishankar’s name emblazoned on it.

John Abraham reciprocated the sentiment, expressing his admiration for the minister. “Was a pleasure and honour to meet a man who I so intently follow,” he wrote on X. “We discussed diplomacy, the North East and football amongst many other things. Truly an honour Sir! @DrSJaishankar @NEUtdFC #TheDiplomat.”

Was a pleasure and honour to meet a man who I so intently follow, we discussed diplomacy, the North East and football amongst many other things. Truly an honour Sir! @DrSJaishankar @NEUtdFC #TheDiplomat https://t.co/RJGczbWuFY — John Abraham (@TheJohnAbraham) March 13, 2025

The Diplomat: A Film Rooted in Real Events The timing of the meeting is no coincidence, as Abraham’s latest cinematic venture, The Diplomat, hits theatres today, March 14, 2025. Directed by Shivam Nair, the political thriller is inspired by real-life events and centres on the story of an Indian diplomat, JP Singh, portrayed by Abraham. The character is modelled after a real diplomat who played a pivotal role in rescuing an Indian woman, Uzma Ahmed, from Pakistan in 2017 after she was deceived into a forced marriage.

The film’s narrative delves into the complexities of international relations. Alongside Abraham, The Diplomat features an ensemble cast, including Sadia Khateeb as Uzma, with Sharib Hashmi, Kumud Mishra, and Revathy in key roles. Produced by T-Series, JA Entertainment, Wakaoo Films, and Fortune Pictures/Seeta Films, the movie promises a gripping tale of resilience and sacrifice.

Also Read: Anurag Kashyap praises The Diplomat, says John Abraham delivered a “Very good performance”

Sonam Kapoor, who was announced as the ambassador for French luxury house – Dior late last year has now joined global icons - Oscar nominated actress Rosamund Pike, Olympic gold medallist Zheng Qinwen along with house ambassadors Camille Cottin and Deva Cassel for a unique film parody launching the new D-Journey bag by Dior. Subverting the tone of infomercials, British actress Rosamund Pike is the spokesperson for Dior in this parody film, presenting all the assets of this new must-have bag, the ideal companion combining glamour and freedom of movement.

“Finding the perfect bag can be a real challenge.” This is the slogan delivered at the beginning of this parody which has been produced by the House for the launch of the D-Journey created by Maria Grazia Chiuri for the Dior spring-summer 2025 ready-to-wear collection. In the parody film, Bollywood star and global fashion icon Sonam Kapoor plays the role of an overwhelmed editor-in-chief, along with Olympic tennis champion Zheng Qinwen fresh off the court, Camille Cottin and Deva Cassel, in the middle of rehearsals or meditation, and the model Anyier Anei during a fitting, wittily praising the many talents and facets of their D-Journey: from its infinite versatility to its incomparable practicality.

Also Read: Sonam Kapoor, Anand Ahuja announce collaboration with Topaz Detailing as it debuts in India 

Reema Kagti’s Superboys Of Malegaon has been receiving high praise from the critics and audiences alike. The film tells the real story about a group of friends from Malegaon who make their own films for the people of their town. Apart from Adarsh Gourav and Shashank Arora, it also stars Saqib Ayub in the pivotal role of Irfan.

Interestingly, when Saqib bagged the role in Superboys Of Malegaon, he was simultaneously also cast in another prized project, Sam Bahadur. Hence, there came a time where he had to choose any one of them. He was shooting for a show for Applause Entertainment along with Ileana D’Cruz, Vihaan Samat, Divya Dutta in Goa when he got a call for Sam Bahadur.

“Later, the same casting directors called me for Superboys Of Malegaon too,” he said in an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama. “I was asked to test for Akram’s character. Then they asked me to test for Farogh. Then finally, I tested for Irfan and I got locked for it.”

But at the same time, he was also locked for Sam Bahadur. “The shoot of that film was clashing with Superboys of Malegaon,” said Saqib. “Luckily, it was the same casting directors. I asked them what should I do. They said at the end of the day it’s my call and I will have to say no to one project. Dil pe patthar rakh ke mujhe Meghna Gulzar ji ko na bolna pada Reema Kagti ke liye.” But the actor has no regrets. “All’s well that ends well,” he said.

Saqib was not aware about this fascinating film industry in Malegaon before coming on board Superboys Of Malegaon, although he was aware about the celebrated documentary Superman Of Malegaon. “I hadn’t seen it then. I saw it after I tested for Akram,” he said. “But I was aware about this town called Malegaon as I am a Muslim and I live in Andheri in a very Muslim populated locality. Over there, someone or the other had relatives coming over from Malegaon. But I didn’t know what all happens there. However, I knew that people from there are quite characters. I have interacted with them. But I didn’t know that there is a full-fledged film industry.”

Superboys Of Malegaon is also receiving high praise for its production designing, right from the Prince Video Parlour to the ordinary tea shops. “The credit goes to Sally (White), who was our production designer. Our art team, art director and production designer were superb. They have done a fabulous job. I remember watching the Prince Video Parlour and my character’s tea shop for the first time. It’s a real location in Deolali, which is an army area. They created the sets inside a locality over there,” said Saqib.

He added, “Prince Video Parlour was created. But the tea shop was already there; they just embellished it with painting and furniture. And Shafique’s house is an actual house of someone inside the lane nearby. We were all mesmerized and actually in awe of what she created because she is a South African. So, it is astonishing for her to create something like this by understanding our scenario with such fine details.”

From the whole set of actors, only one got to actually shoot in Malegaon. “The only lucky person to have got a chance to shoot in actual Malegaon was Shashank,” said Saqib. “His scenes in the power loom factory are shot there. These looms are still functioning in Malegaon and they can’t be recreated. Shooting (the whole film) in Malegaon was next to impossible because they knew that a film is being made on their people. So, you can just imagine the craze if we had shot there.”

Saqib was impressed with the clarity of thought of Reema Kagti. He said that even the final edit is ready in her mind while shooting. “She shoots as per her edit,” he said. “There are some directors who let us play and improvise and then they decide on the edit. But Reema isn’t like that. She knows what she wants. She didn’t rely on improvisations. Apart from a line here and there, she asked us to stick to the lines. Varun Grover’s writing was so on point that we weren’t required to do anything else. That was also a learning experience because my previous big project Farzi with Raj and DK gave me a lot of space to play around.”

Apart from an ode to cinema, Superboys Of Malegaon is also about friendship. Saqib said that his off screen bonding with Adarsh Gourav, Viineet Kumar Siingh, Shashank Arora and Ali Abbas helped portray their bond on screen. “We became very close friends,” he said. “We had a 5-6 days’ workshop with Atul Mongia sir. We used to be together all day. Sometimes, we used to visit Adarsh’s place for tea or coffee. Sometimes, Viineet bhai would call us to his place. So, we had started spending time with each other before the shoot started. And as the film was progressing, our bonding was becoming stronger.”

Superboys Of Malegaon didn’t set the box office on fire. But Saqib doesn’t think about it that way. “Honestly, I don’t think the film hasn’t done well because every day some friend of mine has been watching it in Mumbai and they have been saying that theatres are almost full with 80-85% capacity. And people have been applauding in the end and the same thing I have heard from other cast members as well. People have also been sitting till the end credits.”

He added, “I remember on the day of the release, Cinepolis (Mumbai) had two shows, but yesterday I could see four shows. So, it has been spreading through word-of-mouth like Laapataa Ladies and 12th Fail. We are still getting messages from the audience on Instagram on a daily basis even in the third week.”

Superboys Of Malegaon is produced by Excel Entertainment and Tiger Baby Films.

Also Read: Adarsh Gourav on Superboys Of Malegaon, “When I first heard about Malegaon, I was completely blown away”

Star couple Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani are preparing for the next chapter in their lives as they await the arrival of their first child. The actors, who married in 2023, were in a relationship for over two years before tying the knot. While they never publicly confirmed their romance, it's widely believed they fell in love while filming Shershaah (2021). However, their first meeting actually happened earlier—on the sets of Kiara’s 2018 anthology film Lust Stories, which featured her much-discussed scene with a vibrator.

Sidharth Malhotra recently had a fun chat with YouTuber Lilly Singh, where he reflected on his first meeting with Kiara Advani. During the conversation, Lilly praised Kiara’s performance in Lust Stories, directed by Karan Johar, and assumed Sidharth was supportive of it. He responded, “Oh absolutely! So actually we, now that we’re married, that’s the reason I met her. I’m very grateful that short film to be made, because I met her when they stopped... I was on set, I did go to meet Karan (Johar) at that set and we met and we met right after that.” Lilly called this a great meeting story and agreeing with her, Sidharth shared, “I know! I didn't want to be for that, but I knew what she was up to because I’d heard the story from Karan before.”

Sidharth Malhotra praised Lust Stories, saying its presentation was humorous and well-intentioned while applauding Kiara Advani for making bold choices. Reflecting on their marriage over the past year, he shared that having Kiara by his side has been a positive influence. He described her as family-oriented, emphasizing how her strong ethics and values are qualities he deeply respects and admires. To the delight of their fans, Sidharth also spoke about their plans for raising children.

Recalling Sidharth Malhotra’s past statement on the importance of raising sons and a father’s role in shaping them, Lilly Singh asked for his thoughts on fatherhood. Sidharth responded, “The best way in my book, thought its a very difficult way and we've all spoken about it, is to definitely get your boys in check, you know, growing up. And that would be my intent whenever in life that a point would come. Be it a girl or a boy, I think values, ethics and just being a kinder human being and a more sensitive human being. I was reading recently and it says, you know, being a male is by birth but being a man is by choice.”

Sidharth elaborated on the meaning of being a man, explaining that it’s about taking responsibility for one’s actions, being accountable, and being sensitive in interactions with loved ones. As he prepares for this new chapter, fans are eager to see him step into his “dad era.”

Also Read : Sidharth Malhotra talks about his regret over neglecting his mother’s care: “I felt slightly ashamed of the fact”

Anurag Kashyap was recently impressed by John Abraham’s performance in his upcoming political thriller The Diplomat, set to release in theaters on March 14. Having previously worked with John in No Smoking (2007), Anurag praised his acting, saying he delivered a strong performance without any “unnecessary action or herogiri.” He also lauded director Shivam Nair for crafting an engaging film.

In an interview with The Hindu, Anurag Kashyap praised The Diplomat, saying, “I really liked The Diplomat. I told John, ‘after a long time I am seeing you being a very good actor’. He is not doing unnecessary action or herogiri in the film. He is solely playing a character. And Shivam Nair has made a really engaging film.”

He then recalled John’s response, saying, “I was congratulating John, and he again said, ‘Yaar, let’s do No Smoking 2.’”

He added, “John really means it but I want a subject. Over a period of time, a film achieves a cult following. So it becomes even more scary to meet people’s expectations. I want to go into that zone only if the subject matter is unique.”

The Diplomat also features Sadia Khateeb, Prapti Shukla, Jagjeet Sandhu, Ashwath Bhatt, Sharib Hashmi, Kumud Mishra, Ram Gopal Bajaj, and Benjamin Gilani in key roles. Directed by Shivam Nair, the film is produced by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, John Abraham, Vipul D. Shah, Ashwin Varde, Rajesh Bahl, Samir Dixit, Jatish Varma, and Rakesh Dang.

While sharing the trailers of The Diplomat, the makers wrote on Instagram, “Jab har raasta tha band, humaarey Bharat ne ummeed ko zinda rakha. A true story of courage. Watch it unfold on the big screen. #TheDiplomatTrailer out now! Releasing worldwide on 14th March.”

Also Read : Anurag Kashyap calls Hindi film industry ‘toxic’ and moves away from Mumbai; says, “I want to stay away from film people”

Salman Khan recently sustained a rib injury but continued shooting for the high-energy song ‘Bam Bam Bhole’ from his upcoming film Sikandar. The song, which was released recently ahead of the Holi festival, features Rashmika Mandanna and Kajal Aggarwal, marking the first time the two actresses have shared screen space.

Set against a vibrant Holi backdrop, the song is a visually grand sequence with elaborate choreography and a large ensemble of dancers. Despite his injury, Salman pushed through the physically demanding shoot to avoid delays, ensuring the production continued as planned. His decision allowed the team’s extensive preparations to remain on schedule.

Directed by A.R. Murugadoss, Sikandar is set for a Eid 2025 release and is produced by Sajid Nadiadwala. The film stars Rashmika Mandanna as the female lead, with Kajal Aggarwal in a pivotal role. While plot details remain under wraps, the film is expected to be a high-octane action entertainer with a strong emotional storyline.

Murugadoss, known for Ghajini and Holiday, is collaborating with Salman for the first time. With Sikandar, the director aims to deliver a mass entertainer that blends action, drama, and powerful storytelling.

With the release of ‘Bam Bam Bhole’, excitement around the film has intensified. Salman’s commitment to his work, even in challenging circumstances, has further fuelled anticipation for his return to the big screen in Sikandar. Fans are eager to see what the film has in store as its release date approaches.

Salman Khan will be returning to the big screen during Eid 2025 with this Sajid Nadiadwala production as it promises to be an explosive cinematic experience with plenty more surprises still to come. The trailer release date and the date in which the film will hit cinemas is yet to be announced.

Also Read: “Sikandar is an entertainer with a meaningful social issue,” says cinematographer S. Thirunavukkarasu

On March 9, movie buffs were in for a treat as superstar Aamir Khan had a conversation with Javed Akhtar and shared fascinating trivia. A memorable moment of the afternoon was when he confessed that Rajkumar Hirani had expressed the desire to cast him for a film before 3 Idiots (2009) and after Munna Bhai MBBS (2003). However, Rajkumar later tweaked the script and turned it into Lage Raho Munna Bhai (2006).

Aamir Khan didn’t stop here and told viewers what the original script was. He said, “It was set before independence, and the protagonist is a freedom fighter and a Gandhian. During lathi charge, he gets severely hurt and slips into a coma. He wakes up 40-45 years later. The world has progressed, but he doesn’t know that Gandhi has been killed. He’s still in the mid-40s. That’s why he talks to Gandhi.”

The idea was fascinating, and many felt a film on this idea should be made. Bollywood Hungama, however, has learned that a Gujarati movie has already been made on this subject. It is titled 'Bapu Kyan Chhe?'. It stars Dharmendra Gohil (of 102 Not Out and Vijay 69 fame), Avani Modi (of Calendar Girls fame), Mihir Bhuta and others. It is the story of a man who works with Mahatma Gandhi and slips into a coma during the stampede that ensues when Bapu is assassinated. He wakes up in the present day and wishes to meet Bapu. This is when his family and loved ones get people to dress up not just as Mahatma Gandhi but also as Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Patel and others and appear in front of him.

Sadly, 'Bapu Kyan Chhe?' never got a release. The cast and crew interacted with the press way back in 2016 and in 2017, there were reports that it would arrive in cinemas that year. Sadly, that never happened. The film is written and directed by Pankaj Trivedi, who has written films like Apna Sapna Money Money, the TV show ‘Wagle Ki Duniya’ etc.

Also Read: Alia Bhatt drops major hint about the ultimate collaboration between Aamir Khan and Ranbir Kapoor

Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan has made another significant real estate investment in Ayodhya, securing a 54,454-square-foot land parcel. The property, located 10 kilometers from the recently inaugurated Ram Mandir, was purchased under the Harivansh Rai Bachchan Memorial Trust. This marks his second land acquisition in the region, following an earlier purchase in Haveli Avadh on January 16, 2024.

Details of the Land Acquisition According to reports, Amitabh Bachchan’s latest land deal was facilitated by Rajesh Rishikesh Yadav on behalf of the Harivansh Rai Bachchan Memorial Trust. As per a report by Times Of India, Pratap Singh, Assistant Inspector General of the Stamp and Registration Department in Ayodhya, confirmed the transaction, stating, “We can only confirm that sale deeds have taken place. Once the local development authority approves the building plan, one would know what is going to be the purpose of the two investments.”

Bachchan’s first purchase in Haveli Avadh, close to the Ram Mandir, was valued at Rs 4.54 crore. Sources indicate that while this earlier acquisition may serve residential purposes, the newly acquired land is expected to be utilized for social or charitable causes. A Tribute to Harivansh Rai Bachchan Amitabh Bachchan had established the Harivansh Rai Bachchan Memorial Trust in 2013 in honor of his father, the renowned poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan. He had announced on his blog, “I am happy to announce the formation of a Trust in the memory of my Father – HRB Memorial Trust – which shall work to collect funds for charity. My own efforts at creating events or acts to contribute to it shall be prime, and the list of the charitable work done shall be soon visible to all.”

On the professional front, Amitabh Bachchan last appeared in 2024’s Kalki 2898 AD and Vettaiyan. Both films received immense love from audiences and critics. The veteran actor recently wrapped up his popular show, Kaun Banega Crorepati.

Also Read: Amitabh Bachchan agrees Abhishek Bachchan is “victim of nepotism negativity”

Bollywood actress Kajol has made a notable real estate investment, purchasing a prime commercial property in Goregaon West for Rs 28.78 crore. The deal was finalized on March 6, 2025, as per property transaction records from IndexTap.com. The property, located at Bharat Arize on Linking Road, Bangur Nagar, was sold by Bharat Realty Ventures Pvt Ltd.

According to the documents, the acquired space is Shop No. 2 on the ground floor, spanning 4,365 sq. ft. The transaction includes five dedicated car parking spots. The per square foot rate for the deal stands at Rs 65,940, with Kajol paying a stamp duty of Rs 1.72 crore. A Lucrative Investment in Mumbai’s Growing Commercial Hub Goregaon West has emerged as a prime commercial hub in Mumbai, attracting interest from high-net-worth individuals and businesses. Kajol’s acquisition adds to the growing trend of Bollywood celebrities investing in Mumbai’s real estate market. The locality’s strategic location, robust infrastructure, and proximity to major business districts make it an attractive investment destination.

Coming back to Kajol, speaking of her professional front, she was last seen in Do Patti. The Netflix original film also stars Kriti Sanon in a double role along with Shaheer Shaikh and Tanvi Azmi. The actress has recently shared the first look of her upcoming film, Maa.

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“Hell is here… so is the Goddess! Battle begins on 27th June 2025, in cinemas near you. #Maa #Maa27June. #jyotideshpande @kumarmangatpathak @furia_vishal @danishdevgn,” she wrote in the caption. The film is touted to a mythological horror film that ‘explores the timeless battle between good and evil’ according to the filmmakers. The ensemble star cast also includes Ronit Roy, Indraneil Sengupta, and Kherin Sharma in key roles.

Also Read: Maa: First Look of Kajol from the mythological horror drama unveiled by Jio Studios

Filmmaker Hansal Mehta recently took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to voice his concerns about the state of Hindi cinema, calling for a much-needed industry reset. In a detailed post, he argued that Bollywood is not dying but rather stuck in a cycle of safe, formulaic choices. He emphasized the need to invest in fresh talent, bold storytelling, and directors who bring authenticity to their craft. Highlighting actors he believes could shape the industry's future, Mehta urged producers and platforms to rethink their approach. His statement quickly sparked discussions within the industry, with many supporting his views—albeit privately.

Bollywood’s Over-Reliance on Formulas According to Mehta, the primary issue is not audience disinterest but a lack of risk-taking in Hindi cinema. “The problem isn’t the audience losing interest. It’s that investment is being funneled into the safe, the recycled, the formulaic,” he wrote. He stressed that audiences today are drawn to conviction in storytelling rather than star power, something recent box office performances have proven time and again. Mehta believes that the future of Hindi cinema lies in fostering talent rather than relying on outdated formulas. Actors Who Could Shape Bollywood’s Future Mehta named several actors who, in his view, represent the future of Bollywood. These include Adarsh Gourav, whom he called a “shape-shifter” for his ability to disappear into roles, and Vedang Raina, who he believes has the potential to break out as a leading man. Ishaan Khatter, Zahan Kapoor, Aditya Rawal, Sparsh Shrivastava, Abhay Verma, Lakshya, and Raghav Juyal also featured on his list—each lauded for their distinctive abilities and untapped potential. He described them as actors who need faith, not second-guessing, to thrive.

The Industry’s Fear of Change Following the strong response to his post, Mehta tweeted again, noting that while many within the industry agreed with him, most expressed their support privately. He attributed this silence to Bollywood’s unwillingness to engage in public discourse about investing in talent. “The moment you speak publicly about investing in talent, the usual noise begins—box-office jargon, nepotism debates, and the illusion of ‘mass content’,” he stated. He criticized the industry’s fixation on box office numbers and spectacle-driven content, arguing that these factors have led to creative stagnation.

A Call to Action for Producers, Platforms, and Directors Mehta concluded his post with a call to action. He urged producers to think long-term, advocating for patience and strategic investment in talent. He also called on streaming platforms to back actors instead of relying solely on data-driven decisions. For directors, he highlighted the need to cast actors based on skill rather than familiarity. His message was clear: Hindi cinema does not need saving—it needs a shift in priorities.

Also Read: Hansal Mehta’s Rajkummar Rao starrer Shahid to have special screening on February 26, ahead of 12th anniversary re-release in May 2025

Nora Fatehi recently spoke about how certain actors tried to sideline her using paid PR strategies. Speaking to BBC Asian Network, she revealed that some actors paid their agencies to compare their performances with hers, claiming they had replaced her. Nora recalled confronting one such actor, warning them to stay in their lane. She also shared how she overcame an ankle injury and made a strong comeback with her dance performance in Honey Singh’s music video, ‘Payal.’

Nora Fatehi on Actors Using Her Name for Publicity During the interview, Nora stated that several actors have attempted to build their careers by using her name. She claimed that some even paid PR agencies to circulate narratives about her being replaced. “They would go and pay their PR agencies and ask them to put their and my picture together with the caption, ‘Nora is done. I am the new Nora.’ Don’t do that. That’s ridiculous. Just because I don’t have anyone to call you and ask you not to do that, doesn’t mean that you can ride over me. Stay in your lane and be respectful,” she said. Confronting an Actor Over Industry Rivalry Nora also spoke about confronting an actor who had been spreading false narratives behind her back. “I do confront them sometimes. I confronted a girl who was talking about me. I will not be a pushover or a doormat,” she stated. The ‘Dilbar’ star acknowledged the competitive nature of the industry, saying, “Everyone is trying to take everyone down.” She pointed out that while people appear friendly on the surface, they often work secretly to replace others. Making a Strong Comeback After an Injury Continuing further, Nora shared how she fought back after an ankle injury. At a time when rumors about her decline were circulating, she was determined to prove them wrong. “When I was sitting with the ankle injury and reading that Nora is done, I was like okay, wait till my ankle is healed. Let me show you,” she said. Despite not being fully recovered, she performed in ‘Payal’ to send a message that she was far from being replaced. Betrayal by an Audition Agency Nora also recalled an incident where she was misled by an agency during an audition process. She revealed that the agency strung her along for months, making her believe she was being considered for a role, while secretly locking another actress for the same part. “They told me they hadn’t heard back, but then they got another girl locked for that part,” she said. Frustrated by the experience, she ultimately decided to leave the agency.

Speaking of the professional front, lately, Nora has been seen in a bunch of music video, while her last theatrical release was Madgaon Express.

Also Read: Nora Fatehi express gratitude as ‘Snake’ crosses 100M+ views worldwide: “I’m forever grateful”

Actress Deepika Padukone made a stunning appearance at the Louis Vuitton show during Paris Fashion Week. As the global brand ambassador for Louis Vuitton, Deepika exuded elegance and sophistication in a bespoke outfit from the luxury fashion house with the backdrop of Eiffel Tower, as she dons a hat, scarf to tie up her hair and a dash of classic red lipstick with a white oversized coat and all back heels and gloves.

The actress is attending the Louis Vuitton show at The Cour Carrée du Louvre, a main courtyard of the Louvre Palace in Paris. By being the first Indian to be signed by global luxury fashion houses for Louis Vuitton and Cartier, she set the stage for the country’s growing influence globally and has further paved the way for other Indian celebrity faces to join the wave in subsequent years. Stunning in a timeless classic ensemble reminiscent of vintage charm, Deepika slays as she marks her appearance overseas yet again.

As a global ambassador for Louis Vuitton, Deepika has been making waves in the fashion world. She was recently seen in a black beauty for Cartier’s 25th Anniversary celebration in Dubai, followed by Forbes Summit in Abu Dhabi where she dazzled as a golden girl. Her association with the houses has been a significant milestone in her career, marking her as the first Indian to be signed as a House Ambassador by Louis Vuitton. More so, netizens can’t stop praising the look and hailing Deepika’s yet another look as “iconic” and call her, “holy iconic queen!!”, “Can't take my eyes off deepika she is serving”, “This woman is a vision” & “Now Eiffel Tower has a tough competition who is more beautiful?”. Deepika's husband and actor Ranveer Singh also dropped a cheeky comment, which read, "Lord have mercy on me."

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While she enjoys motherhood and makes her remarkable presence felt representing India at important global platforms, one can definitely say that the Queen was missed and continues to surprise us with her back to back stunning and powerful outings. Deepika's appearance at Paris Fashion Week for Louis Vuitton has once again solidified her position as a fashion icon and a global ambassador for Indian cinema.

Also Read: Women’s Day Special: Deepika Padukone says, “I’d look at these amazing women and be inspired by them”

The three-day 25th IIFA Awards was held in Jaipur and ended with a bang with the main award ceremony. The star-studded event had lots of memorable moments but the best of them was the act of Shah Rukh Khan.

From the very beginning, there was a tremendous demand from the audience to see King Khan live on stage. SRK took his own time to come. He first appeared at the Green Carpet and eventually on stage very late, post midnight. Yet the Jaipur crowd patiently waited to catch his act.

As expected, Shah Rukh Khan’s entry was not a usual one. A drone light show was held in the sky to announce his entry. ‘SRK The King’ was mentioned along with his signature pose.

Jaipur was shining ✨ with King ???? Khan’s magic on celebrating 25 years of #IIFA with the one and only Shah Rukh Khan.???? The Silver Jubilee celebrations of @IIFA was top notch ???? #ShahRukhKhan @iamsrk #SRKatIIFA

pic.twitter.com/Myn6mwBAtc

— ♡♔SRKCFC♔♡™ (@SRKCHENNAIFC) March 9, 2025

Finally, Shah Rukh Khan arrived, and he set the stage on fire. He performed on songs like ‘Zinda Banda’, ‘Chaiyya Chaiyya’, ‘Lungi Dance’ etc. During ‘Chak Dhoom Dhoom’, he was joined by Madhuri Dixit, further leading to a frenzy.

Also Read: Aamir Khan opens up about turning down Darr, which eventually went to Shah Rukh Khan: “Agar woh main karta toh kuch aur hi ho jata”

Bollywood is set to witness a fresh on-screen pairing as Ananya Panday and Lakshya are confirmed to play engineering students in the upcoming film, Chand Mera Dil. Produced by Karan Johar's Dharma Productions and directed by Vivek Soni, the film generates buzz for its contemporary take on a college romance. It will delve into the lives of young engineering students, exploring their relationships and experiences within the academic setting. Reports indicate that the film will be primarily shot in Pune, with key sequences taking place in a prominent local college.

A report by Mid-Day quoted a source saying, “For the past three months, the film, which sees Ananya and Lakshya play engineering students, was in pre-production. Vivek will take it on the floors on March 15. The first schedule will take place in Pune, where the team has zeroed in on a leading college where most of the campus portions will be shot.”

Speaking of the film, it was announced last year in November. The official social media handle of Karan Johar and Dharma Productions shared multiple posters from the film. While most of the details of the film are kept under wraps, the film features a tagline “Pyaar Mein thoda paagal hona padta hai (One should be a little mad in love)”. Directed by Vivek Soni, the makers have revealed that they are aiming for release in 2025.

Also Read: After Kill and Chand Mera Dil, Lakshya strikes a hat-trick with Dharma Productions, to headline another action thriller

Actor Shah Rukh Khan has emerged victorious in a long-standing tax dispute, with the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) ruling in his favor. The tribunal recently quashed reassessment proceedings initiated by the Income Tax authorities for the financial year 2011-12.

Background of the Shah Rukh Khan Tax Case The case revolves around Shah Rukh Khan’s income from his 2011 film RA.One, produced under his banner, Red Chillies Entertainment. As per the agreement between Khan and the production house, 70% of the film’s shooting took place in the UK, meaning a substantial portion of his remuneration—estimated at Rs 83.42 crores—was subject to UK taxes, including withholding tax. Khan declared this income in his original tax return for the Assessment Year 2012-13, claiming a Foreign Tax Credit (FTC) to offset taxes paid abroad against his Indian tax liability.

However, the Income Tax officer rejected Khan’s FTC claim, reassessing his income at Rs 84.17 crore and alleging underpayment of tax. The reassessment, initiated beyond the four-year statutory limit under Section 147 of the Income Tax Act, sparked a legal battle that has now concluded with the ITAT’s ruling. ITAT’s Ruling: A Triumph for Shah Rukh Khan The ITAT bench, comprising Sandeep Singh Karhail and Girish Agrawal, ruled that the reassessment proceedings were invalid. The tribunal explained that the assessing officer failed to provide “fresh tangible material” to justify reopening the case after the statutory deadline. Furthermore, the bench noted that Khan had fully disclosed his foreign income and tax credits in his original filing, which had already been scrutinized under Section 143(3). This made the reassessment a case of “mere change of opinion,” rendering it legally unjustified.

On the other hand, SRK has not publicly commented on the ruling as of March 10, 2025. Speaking of the professional front, he was last seen in Dunki, a 2023 release directed by Rajkumar Hirani. The film also features Taapsee Pannu. The actor will be next seen in Siddharth Anand’s King.

Also Read: IIFA Awards Jaipur: Drone light show celebrates Shah Rukh Khan; superstar sets the stage on fire; dance with Madhuri Dixit proves to be icing on the cake

Best Directorial Debut Kunal Kemmu - Madgaon Express

Best Debut (Male) Lakshya Lalwani - Kill

Best Debut (Male) Pratibha Ranta - Laapataa Ladies

Best Lyrics  Prashant Pandey (Sajni) - Laapataa Ladies

Best Music Director  Ram Sampath - Laapataa Ladies

Best Singer (Male) Jubin Nautiyal  (Dua) Article 370

Best Singer (Female) Shreya Ghoshal (Ami Je Tomar 3.0) Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3

Best Sound Design Subash Sahoo, Boloy Kumar Doloi, Rahul Karpe -  Kill

Best Screenplay Sneha Desai - Laapataa Ladies

Best Dialogue Arjun Dhawan, Aditya Dhar, Aditya Suhas Jambhale, Monal Thaakar - Article 370

Best Cinematography Rafey Mahmood - Kill

Best Choreography Bosco-Caesar (Tauba Tauba) - Bad Newz

Best VFX  Red Chillies VFX - Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3

While Ranbir Kapoor has taken the ‘Kapoor’ surname to greater heights, another scion from the Kapoor family has entered the film industry. Zahan Kapoor, grandson of legendary actor Shashi Kapoor and son of actor Kunal Kapoor, entered the industry in 2022 and is recently receiving much love for his performance in Black Warrant – his web series debut that is currently streaming on Netflix. As he opened up about his love for industry, he also noted how the Kapoor surname comes with certain responsibility, but also, with some privileges.

During the India Today Conclave, Zahan Kapoor opened up about the pros and cons of having this surname in the film industry and said, "Being the new Kapoor on the block is a common source of intrigue for many people. It’s interesting, both an advantage and a disadvantage. It is a do dhaari talvaar (double-edged sword)."

Speaking of the importance of having this surname and how he deals with the responsibility that comes with it, Kapoor shared, "There is pressure and expectation, yet there is also forgiveness and accessibility in certain ways. Thankfully, I’m happy to say that my parents ensured I wasn’t carrying that weight on my shoulders and taught me to be diligent with my own work. Things are in my hands and in how I show up."

"It was difficult for me to navigate these expectations. It was difficult to figure out what I should do. All I knew was that I wanted to be a part of this magical world of telling stories, to serve it in the best way I can. And I like learning; I really do. I’m very nerdy like that. So I’m reading, learning, talking to people, watching rehearsals and films. I am fascinated and trying to reflect on life around us, so society questions that,” he added.

Furthermore, Zahan also shared his experience of being a part of theatre experiences and insisted that he is quite fond of the medium.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Zahan Kapoor reveals he “didn’t know” about cousin brother Ranbir Kapoor until his Bollywood debut; says, “Our one-on-one relationship wasn’t that close”

In a legal blow to Tanushree Dutta, a Mumbai court has rejected her plea against the relief granted to veteran actor Nana Patekar in the #MeToo case she had filed. Despite the setback, Tanushree remains undeterred and has vowed to continue her fight with even greater determination.

Taking to social media, Tanushree Dutta insisted that she has some ‘good news’ to share with her fans, wherein she said, “The court has cancelled the B-summary report filed by the Mumbai Police on the Horn Ok Pleassss sexual harassment complaint against Nana Patekar and others. The police had tried to close the case in 2019 by citing a false and malicious B-summary report without even talking to any of my witnesses, meanwhile my witnesses all were getting threats by Nana's goons and underworld liasons. Recently one of our prime witness directly deposited her testimony against Patekar in court and corroborated my whole complaint and also the fact that she was pressured into silence by unknown men threatening her over fone. The court took cognizance of this witness testimony via a filed affidavit and came to the conclusion that the B summary report by the police cannot be accepted by court. So we have won this case and now the Mumbai Police will have to file a chargesheet on the matter”.

“Me and my legal team have won the case, and any media house that is printing a false totally opposite story will have to answer the court and will by default become a party to the harassment case. The court has dismissed/ cancelled/refused to take cognizance of the B-summary report filed by police on the 2008 harassment incident on the Horn ok please movie set. Nana Patekar tried to close the case on himself by filing a B summary but court has rejected it. So the case is still open and the police will have to file a chargesheet on the case against Nana. Stop spreading fake news because this is my season of victory. Chargesheet will be filed soon on Nana Patekar and others as police have no other option now”, she wrote in yet another post among the many she shared on the platform.

Speaking about the case, on Friday, the Metropolitan Magistrate’s Court in Andheri officially disposed of two sexual harassment cases filed by Tanushree against Nana Patekar, choreographer Ganesh Acharya, director Rakesh Sarang, and producer Abdul Sami Abdul Gani Siddiqui. The complaints, registered at the Oshiwara police station in October 2018, were related to alleged incidents that took place in March 2008 and October 2010 on the sets of the film Horn Ok Pleassss. Metropolitan Magistrate NV Bansal ruled that the first case would be closed, as the police had submitted the closure reports beyond the permissible time frame.

This legal decision follows a previous ruling where another Mumbai court had dismissed the case against Nana Patekar and the three co-accused. While the verdict marks a significant legal hurdle for Tanushree Dutta, she has reiterated her commitment to seeking justice, emphasizing that this outcome has only strengthened her resolve.

Also Read: Tanushree Dutta SLAMS Hema Committee Report, calls it “Useless”: “People like Nana and Dileep are narcissistic psychopaths”

Bollywood actress and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut has officially wrapped up the shooting of her much-anticipated psychological thriller with R Madhavan. The film, directed by AL Vijay, marks a thrilling reunion between Kangana and Madhavan, nearly a decade after their last collaboration in Tanu Weds Manu Returns (2015). Announced by Kangana in 2023, the pan-India project is set to release in both Hindi and Tamil, with music composed by GV Prakash Kumar.

Kangana took to social media to share the exciting news, posting a celebratory picture from the set. In the image, while she looks thrilled to be posing alongside director AL Vijay and other crew members in a pink saree, her drenched avatar has definitely taken us by surprise. The actress, who has been busy juggling between her acting and political career, expressed her gratitude to the team for an incredible filming experience and shared on her Instagram story, “Today wrapping filming of my upcoming thriller with some of my fabs” as she also went on to tag the filmmaker as well as her co-actor and added, "See you in the cinemas”.

Meanwhile, R Madhavan, who has also been a part of several high-profile projects recently, re-shared Kangana’s post, expressing his happiness over completing the shoot. Although he seems to be missing from the pic, he reposed the photo on his story and said, “Congratulations.... so much fun shooting this one once too... lovely unit and adorable team... rock it as usual @kanganaranaut” and concluded it with hugs and thumbs-up emojis. The actor and Kangana have shared an incredible on-screen chemistry in the past, making this reunion even more special for fans.

For Kangana, this film also marks her second collaboration with AL Vijay after Thalaivii (2021), where she portrayed former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa. With Vijay’s directorial expertise and the powerful combination of Kangana and Madhavan, expectations are sky-high for this psychological thriller.

While details of the film’s plot and title remain under wraps, the makers have promised a gripping and intense cinematic experience. With shooting now complete, fans are eagerly awaiting further updates, including the film’s official title, teaser, and release date.

Also Read: Kangana Ranaut defends Rashmika Mandanna amid controversy, criticizes Karnataka Dy CM DK Shivakumar: “God is always standing with all the artists”

In a remarkable turn of events in Burhanpur, Madhya Pradesh, villagers embarked on a treasure hunt after watching the Bollywood film Chhaava, starring Vicky Kaushal. The film, which portrays historical events, led to widespread rumours that Mughal-era gold coins were buried near Asirgarh Fort. Motivated by these tales, locals began excavating fields with flashlights and metal detectors, hoping to unearth hidden treasures.

The digging commenced around 7 PM and continued until 3 AM, with villagers working tirelessly through the night. This fervour was fueled by longstanding legends associating Asirgarh Fort with hidden riches. However, despite extensive efforts, no substantial evidence or treasures were discovered.

Authorities intervened after videos of the excavation activities went viral on social media. The police issued warnings against unauthorized digging, emphasizing the potential dangers and legal implications of such actions. They urged the public not to be swayed by unfounded rumours and to refrain from engaging in illegal activities.

This incident underscores the profound impact of media on public perception and behaviour. While Chhaava is a work of fiction, its portrayal of Burhanpur’s historical significance seems to have blurred the lines between reality and imagination for some viewers. Experts caution against taking cinematic depictions as historical facts, especially when they lead to actions that defy legal and safety norms.

Asirgarh Fort holds historical importance and is frequently associated with Mughal Emperor Akbar, as well as tales of hidden treasures from the Mughal plunder during their campaigns against the Marathas.

The recent film Chhaava seems to have revived these ancient stories, leading locals to attempt finding the hidden treasure.

Chhaava is an Indian historical action film directed by Laxman Utekar, depicting the life of Sambhaji Maharaj, the second ruler of the Maratha Empire, with Vicky Kaushal playing the lead role.

The movie features scenes implying that Mughal forces plundered treasures from the Marathas and hid them in Asirgarh Fort.

Also Read : Chhaava Box Office: Vicky Kaushal starrer enters Rs. 500 crore club; collects Rs. 502.70 cr

Filmmaker Ram Madhvani’s web show The Waking of a Nation started streaming on Sony LIV from today onwards. Starring Taaruk Raina in the lead, the show is about the court case that looks into the conspiracy behind the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919. Interestingly, the upcoming Akshay Kumar, R Madhavan and Ananya Panday starrer Kesari 2: The Untold Story Of Jallianwala Bagh is also based on the same premise.

This was pointed out to Madhvani in an exclusive chat with Bollywood Hungama. He said, “We have known about it. We knew four years ago that Akshay and Dharma are doing this film with Ananya Panday and Madhavan. We knew that it is about a court case that happens in London. In a way, it’s not similar but it is about Jallianwala Bagh. I am told it’s a good movie. I am told by people who have seen it.”

Madhvani added that he wants to see Kesari 2 being successful. “I genuinely wish them every success,” he said. “We are all here trying to put out our work. We know how much of a miracle it is to do work itself and put it out. Genuinely, I wish their film does well. We all over here are rooting for them.”

Directed by Karan Singh Tyagi, Kesari Chapter 2 is produced by Dharma Productions, Cape Of Good Films and Leo Media Collective.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: The Waking of a Nation writer Shantanu Srivastava on the aftermath of Jallianwala Bagh massacre not being taught in schools, “What to say about the curriculum of NCERT, CBSE and ICSE?”

Actress Neetu Chandra recently submitted a petition regarding the use of vulgar and explicit songs in Bollywood. The case is now set to be heard on March 28, 2025. On Friday, a hearing took place before a bench led by Acting Chief Justice of the Patna High Court, Ashutosh Kumar. The court requested the central government to clarify its position on the issue. It was noted that the case seemed to be a public interest litigation, which also highlighted concerns about the use of derogatory language and abusive remarks towards women in Bhojpuri songs.

In the Public Interest Litigation (PIL), the petitioner claims that the song "Maniac" by Yo Yo Honey Singh, is filled with vulgar content. The song is said to depict women in an inappropriate manner, commercializing them by presenting them as objects for consumption. It further argues that women are portrayed as mere sex symbols in the song.

The use of double entendre in the lyrics of the songs amplifies their vulgarity. This negatively impacts children, women, and society as a whole. Additionally, the inclusion of Bhojpuri language terms paints women in a very poor and degrading light.

At present, there are no regulations restricting vulgar songs. The actress filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Patna High Court, alleging that Honey Singh's song "Maniac" promotes vulgarity and sexualizes women. The PIL also names other collaborators involved in the song, including lyricist Leo Grewal and Bhojpuri singers Ragini Vishwakarma and Arjun Ajanabi.

The plea stated that the fundamental right to freedom of speech and expression is guaranteed by the Constitution of India, but it also has its limitations. It calls for legal action against those who violate these limits and suggests that they should face appropriate consequences, with strict enforcement of rules.

Also Read : Yo Yo Honey Singh calls out YouTube trolls at Lucknow concert; says, “Hum yahan tabse hain jab YouTube bhi nahin tha”