On July 6, 2025, Ranveer Singh turned 40, and leading the birthday wishes was none other than filmmaker and close friend Karan Johar. Karan took to social media to share a heartfelt and poetic tribute to the actor who has often been described as one of Bollywood’s most energetic and versatile performers. Karan posted a carousel of three photos of Ranveer, accompanied by a long, rhyming caption that celebrated not just the star’s talent but also his individuality and spirit.

The poem began on a high note, with Karan describing Ranveer as a “comet streaking through the night” — capturing the actor’s dynamic presence and electric charisma: "Buoyant spirit, blazing bright, A comet streaking through the night, In every step, a thunderous cheer, Ranveer walks, the world draws near."

From praising Ranveer’s fearless fashion choices to admiring the emotional depth beneath his flamboyant exterior, Karan highlighted the many shades of the actor’s personality. He referred to Ranveer as a “madcap prince,” an “artist,” and a “rainbow burst in Bollywood’s blue,” offering fans a glimpse into the deep bond they share.

Johar also touched on Ranveer’s relationships — calling him a loyal son, devoted husband, and dependable friend — noting how his love for wife Deepika Padukone and his family remains unwavering. “For Deepika’s smile, for parents’ pride, For friends who know he’ll never hide, He gives his all, his soul, his grin, Such love and light he carries in.”

Ending his message on a celebratory note, Karan wrote: “May his spirit ever leap and sing, Long live the lord of BLING Ranveer Singh!!”

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The poetic tribute quickly went viral, with fans flooding the comments section to echo Karan’s sentiments and wish the actor on his milestone birthday.

Also Read: SCOOP: Ranveer Singh-starrer Dhurandhar to release on December 5; to CLASH with Prabhas’ horror comedy The Raja Saab

Why Is Gupt one of the most beloved murder mysteries? Absolutely, Gupt is one of the most beloved murder mysteries in Indian cinema. And there isn’t just one reason for that — it’s a combination of elements. It’s the story, the tight screenplay, the suspense, and more importantly, the way it's treated. It constantly keeps you guessing and ultimately shocks you with its reveal. Generally, a murder mystery earns respect when it outsmarts its audience. If viewers can guess the killer, then the film has failed. When making a murder mystery, the goal is to ensure that no one can figure it out. That’s why Gupt remains so iconic — most people did not guess the identity of the killer. That lasting surprise is what helps the film stay relevant even today.

But why do audiences keep revisiting Gupt, even after knowing the killer? They return because Gupt offers more than just its twist. The screenplay is fast-paced, and the songs are engaging. There’s so much going on that you often forget how the narrative unfolds. So even when you know the climax, you're drawn back into trying to figure out what you missed — how did you not guess the killer? It becomes a sort of internal challenge for the viewer. The film also boasts strong repeat value — thanks to its music, performances, and visuals. When a film bowls you over the first time, and you realize it outsmarted you, you respect it. That respect often translates into repeated viewings. Personally, if I can guess the killer early on, I lose interest. That shock factor is crucial. Very few filmmakers attempt murder mysteries anymore because there’s a belief that once the suspense is known, the audience won’t return. I never believed that. I took a risk — and I think I was right. 

Did you consider multiple potential killers during the writing? Yes, I tried to cast suspicion on everyone. That’s an art in itself — you need to create confusion and misdirection in minimal time and without dragging the narrative. If you overdo it, you risk boring the audience. The trick is to maintain pace while subtly planting doubt on every character, and that comes from sharp writing and smart editing. 

Was the stellar cast your first choice? Yes, every actor you see in the film was my first choice. I’ve had very few refusals in my career. Most actors were eager to work with me and with a reputed banner like my father Gulshan Rai’s. Why would they say no unless they didn’t like the script or the role? Back then, we didn't narrate the entire script to everyone — just the top actors. Most of them were fine with just knowing the gist: “What’s my role?” “What’s the film about?” That was enough. They knew they were being paid well, the film would be a prestigious addition to their careers, and that was good enough for them. I didn’t face much casting trouble for Gupt. The only time I struggled was during Tridev, when I had difficulty locking the third hero — eventually, I cast Naseeruddin Shah. 

How did you manage the egos of such big stars? Honestly, when you’re dealing with A-listers, they’re often on their guard. They don’t want to be shouted at or disrespected. So, I always make sure I’m respectful — whether it’s with a star or someone serving tea. That’s my nature. As long as you treat stars with dignity and give them their due respect, they return the gesture. I’ve never had any major issues or fights with actors. Everyone came, did their work, and left. When they're made comfortable on set — especially during long waits — they remain calm. Actors don’t mind waiting if they’re being taken care of, and more importantly, if you explain delays to them. Problems arise only when there's poor communication.

Were there any clashes between Kajol and Manisha Koirala during filming? None at all. Zero issues. No ego clashes, no creative differences, no competition over scenes — nothing. I was lucky, yes, but that’s not to say it doesn’t happen in other films. I’ve just been fortunate that I’ve never faced it. 

The music and locations played a big role in Gupt's success. Would you agree? Absolutely. Music and visuals are vital to a murder mystery. A film is a visual medium, and every location, every frame must support the drama. And yes, music — especially background music — is extremely important. Nowadays, audiences are noticing background scores more than ever, especially since songs aren't always chartbusters. But I’ve always placed a strong emphasis on background scores. I worked closely with Viju Shah, and we made sure it elevated every scene. That extra effort makes a difference. Whether you’re writing an article or making a film — the more meticulously you work, the better your results. I believe in giving 24/7 to the job, staying honest, avoiding complacency, and double-checking everything so the audience doesn’t feel cheated. They give us their time and money — we owe them quality. 

Why didn’t you make a sequel to Gupt? I didn’t want to repeat myself. Unlike Hitchcock, who spent a lifetime making suspense films, I’ve always wanted to explore different things. But yes, thrillers, mysteries, and action are what I love most as a filmmaker. I enjoy stories with twists, where you can’t guess what happens next. That said, my next film Zora, which releases on August 8, is a hardcore murder mystery. In terms of story, it might even be a step ahead of Gupt. It doesn’t have songs or the kind of lavish production value Gupt had, but it’s sharp, thrilling, and very close to my heart.

Also Read: Gupt director Rajiv Rai returns with a suspense thriller ZORA

The excitement around Nitesh Tiwari’s upcoming Ramayana just reached a whole new level! Legendary Indian music composer A R Rahman has sparked fresh anticipation after sharing a selfie with Oscar-winning German composer Hans Zimmer, hinting at a once-in-a-lifetime musical collaboration for the much-awaited film.

Taking to social media, Rahman posted a picture with Zimmer and simply captioned it, “With @hanszimmer #ramayanamovie.” Though short, the post was enough to send fans into a frenzy as two of the world’s biggest music maestros seem to be working together to bring the epic saga to life.

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For the unversed, Ramayana is expected to be one of the most ambitious Indian films ever made, with a massive budget and a grand vision to retell the legendary story of Lord Ram, Goddess Sita, and Ravana on the big screen. The star cast announcement video was unveiled earlier this week and has already generated major buzz across social media.

The official cast includes Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Goddess Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman, and Ravie Dubey as Lakshman. The film also features Rakul Preet Singh as Surpanakha, Ravana’s sister, and Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi, Ram’s stepmother, along with other prominent roles yet to be revealed.

The announcement video, praised for its intense visuals and powerful background score, has only added to the intrigue. With A R Rahman and Hans Zimmer now linked to the project, fans are calling this a “frame of the decade” and a “colossal celebration.” Social media exploded with comments like “Two Titans cooking up something colossal,” “Waiting for the blast now,” and “Excited max, Sir!” Celebrities including Ishaan Khatter and Lauren Gottlieb also dropped comments expressing their excitement over this international-level collaboration.

The idea of these two legendary composers working together has set the expectations sky-high. While the film is still in its early stages, fans are already calling it one of the most anticipated movies of the decade, not just for its scale and cast but now for what promises to be a historically memorable soundtrack.

For the unversed, Ramayana, produced by Namit Malhotra and superstar Yash, is expected to release in two parts – one in Diwali 2026 and the other a year later in Diwali 2027.

Also Read: Who is Surpanakha and why does her role in Ramayana matter? Rakul Preet Singh to play the character in Namit Malhotra and Nitesh Tiwari’s epic

Popular television actress Aishwarya Khare, who won hearts as Lakshmi in Zee TV’s long-running show Bhagya Lakshmi, has announced that she is quitting social media. Her decision comes shortly after the show wrapped up earlier this week, successfully completing over 1300 episodes.

In an exclusive statement to Pinkvilla, Aishwarya shared her reasons for stepping away from the digital world. “Taking a step back to breathe, reconnect with my loved ones, and prioritise my well-being. The constant hustle has been beautiful, but a short break from the digital world feels much needed. See you soon, with more energy and gratitude!” she said, hinting at a much-needed personal reset after years of being in the spotlight.

The actress also took to her official Instagram handle on Thursday to bid a heartfelt goodbye before starting her social media detox. Dropping a simple yet emotional note, she wrote: “Ab sab bhagya bharose #SigningOff bye!”

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The announcement has stirred mixed emotions among fans. While many flooded her social media posts with heartfelt wishes and messages of support for her next chapter, others expressed sadness over saying goodbye to both Aishwarya and her beloved character Lakshmi.

Fans of the show also took to social media to reminisce about the beautiful journey of Bhagya Lakshmi and the much-loved on-screen chemistry between Aishwarya Khare and Rohit Suchanti, who played Rishi Oberoi. The duo, affectionately referred to as #RishMi by their loyal fanbase, had become one of the most popular television couples in recent years.

The prime-time Zee TV family drama enjoyed a strong following, and the ending of the show has clearly left a void for its audience. Fans now hope that both Aishwarya and Rohit will soon return to the small screen with new and exciting projects.

While Aishwarya Khare has signed off from social media for now, her fans eagerly await her comeback, whether online or on television, hoping to see her in fresh roles with the same energy and charm.

Also Read: It’s a wrap for Zee TV’s Bhagya Lakshmi: Aishwarya Khare and Rohit Suchanti talk about bidding an emotional goodbye as show nears finale

Two days ago, the poster of Aamir Khan from the Rajinikanth-starrer Coolie was unveiled, and it received a rocking response. The poster also mentioned important information that the film will be available in the IMAX format. As expected, it led to jubilation among the fans of Coolie. But it left the trade and industry in disbelief. The reason? IMAX hasn’t approved the release of Coolie yet, as confirmed by inside sources to Bollywood Hungama.

A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “It is common knowledge that War 2 and Coolie are releasing on the same day, August 14, and the former has inked an exclusive deal with IMAX. As per this deal, no other Indian film will be played in the IMAX version in India and key properties across the world during that period. Hence, the IMAX mention is shocking because Coolie’s IMAX release hasn’t been approved by the IMAX Corporation. And yet, they have gone ahead and prominently displayed the IMAX logo on the posters.”

A producer, on condition of anonymity, also remarked, “Those who have worked with IMAX are aware that they are extremely particular about how the word ‘IMAX’ should be mentioned. They also instruct the makers that if IMAX is mentioned on the posters, then other formats can’t be mentioned. The makers of Coolie, however, have added D-Box and 4DX mention as well. That’s not all. IMAX is extremely persistent that one can either state ‘Experience it in IMAX’ or ‘Filmed for IMAX’. The makers of Coolie, meanwhile, have printed ‘Watch it in IMAX’, which also probably goes against the IMAX mandate. It remains to be seen how the IMAX head honchos react to this development.”

Why you might still get to watch Coolie in IMAX

A South-based trade source, however, said, “Now that Coolie makers have mentioned it, it makes it clear that their film will be released in IMAX. Or else, why would they mention it? Maybe, they are in talks already for it. But yes, before everything is locked, they shouldn’t have jumped the gun.”

He added, “Either the makers will convince IMAX to let Coolie release in the IMAX theatres. Or else, they’ll play the non-IMAX version of Coolie in the IMAX cinemas, especially in the Southern markets.”

The producer source, meanwhile, said, “But will Yash Raj Films allow that, especially when the deal for exclusive IMAX release of War 2 is in place? Hence, expect a lot of fireworks in the days to come.”

Besides Rajinikanth and Aamir Khan, Coolie also stars Shruti Haasan, Upendra, Sathyaraj and others. It is directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj. As for War 2, it features Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR and is helmed by Ayan Mukerji.

Also Read: Coolie surprise: Aamir Khan gets introduced as ‘Dahaa’ in Rajinikanth starrer action thriller

Aparshakti Khurana is set to make his debut in Tamil cinema with the sci-fi crime thriller ROOT – Running Out of Time. Known for his work as an actor, singer, and host, Aparshakti recently received appreciation for his role in Stree 2. His upcoming venture marks his entry into South Indian films, drawing attention from both audiences and the industry.

In 'ROOT – Running Out of Time', Aparshakti Khurana will be seen sharing the screen with Gautham Karthik, an actor renowned for his choice of unique, performance-driven roles in films like Devarattam and Vai Raja Vai. The film is being shot in Chennai.

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Speaking about his Tamil debut, Aparshakti Khurana expressed his excitement, “I am absolutely thrilled to be making my debut in Tamil cinema with 'ROOT – Running Out of Time'. It's a challenging and unique script, and I'm excited to explore this new territory. The opportunity to work with such a talented team and to connect with a new audience is something I'm truly looking forward to.”

The film is backed by Verus Productions and directed by Sooriyaprathap S, who earlier worked on Naalaiya Iyakkunar – Season 1 and served as Associate Director on the Rajinikanth-starrer Kochadaiiyaan. ROOT aims to combine elements of science fiction, crime, and emotional storytelling in a new cinematic format.

Also Read : Aparshakti Khurana drops soulful new single ‘Lafzaan’, a year after ‘Zaroor’

Anshula Kapoor is now officially engaged, and her family is overjoyed! The daughter of the late producer Boney Kapoor shared the news on Instagram, announcing her engagement to longtime boyfriend Rohan Thakkar following a romantic proposal in New York City’s Central Park.

Anshula shared touching moments from the proposal, capturing the exact instant when Rohan knelt down with a ring box, completely surprising her. Dressed in a bright floral outfit, her happiness shone through in every photo. In one image, she proudly displayed her pear-shaped diamond ring against the backdrop of the lush greenery near the historic Central Park castle.

What really resonated with fans was the heartfelt reaction from her siblings. Arjun Kapoor, clearly emotional, shared on Instagram stories, “My life found her forever… Here’s to a happily ever after both of u @anshulakapoor @rohanthakkar1511 (Missed Mom a little extra today) Love u guys.”

Janhvi Kapoor, sharing the joy, posted, “My sister is engaged. The best for the best." Khushi Kapoor added a similarly warm message: “I love u both. My sister’s getting married!!!!"

In her Instagram caption, Anshula revealed the special story behind their relationship: “We met on an app. Started talking on a random Tuesday at 1.15AM… even back then, it felt like the beginning of something that mattered." Rohan’s proposal was carefully timed—he asked her at exactly 1.15AM India time, mirroring the moment they first began their conversation.

Anshula described the moment as magical, saying it was better than a fairytale. “What Rohan gave me that day was intentional. Thoughtful. Real. Us." Her emotional “yes" was met with joyful tears, nervous laughter, and a celebration at Shake Shack—a heartfelt tribute to their very first conversation about their mutual love for the Shroom Burger.

As congratulations keep pouring in, fans are thrilled to witness the Kapoor family celebrating this beautiful new chapter. Here’s wishing the newly engaged couple a lifetime filled with love and happiness!

Also Read : From Bhumi Pednekar, Keerthy Suresh to Riteish Deshmukh, B-Town applauds the power-packed trailer of Maalik

On July 3, Mumbai-based listed real estate firm Arkade Developers Limited announced that it has signed a binding agreement to acquire 100% stake in Filmistan Pvt Ltd for Rs. 183 crore. The developer intends to launch a luxury apartment project on the site, with a projected gross development value of Rs. 3,000 crores.

The company stated that this acquisition will allow Arkade Developers to develop the iconic 4-acre land parcel located on SV Road in Goregaon West, widely recognized as ‘Filmistan Studios.’

The company mentioned that the project is tentatively planned to launch in 2026 and will be an ultra-luxury residential development. It will offer spacious 3, 4, and 5 BHK apartments, along with exclusive penthouses, spread across two impressive high-rise towers of 50 storeys each. With an estimated Gross Development Value (GDV) of Rs. 3,000 crores, the project is set to become a landmark in premium housing in Western Mumbai.

Mumbai-based listed developer Arkade Developers Ltd announced on July 3 that it has signed a binding agreement to acquire 100% stake in Filmistan Pvt Ltd for Rs. 183 crores. This acquisition will allow Arkade to develop the iconic 4-acre land on SV Road, Goregaon West, commonly known as Filmistan Studios.

The developer intends to launch an ultra-luxury residential project on the site in 2026, offering spacious 3, 4, and 5 BHK apartments along with exclusive penthouses spread across two 50-storey towers. With an expected Gross Development Value (GDV) of Rs. 3,000 crores, the project is poised to become a premium housing landmark in Western Mumbai.

According to the company, Goregaon has quickly evolved into one of Mumbai’s most promising and strategically located residential areas. Thanks to its excellent connectivity—with close access to the Western Express Highway, metro lines, and major arterial roads—the suburb provides easy access to key commercial centres like Mindspace, BKC, Goregaon, Andheri, and more.

Beyond its connectivity, Goregaon offers a strong social infrastructure that includes well-known schools, hospitals, shopping centres, malls, entertainment venues, and large green spaces such as Aarey Forest.

Local brokers noted that the average price per square foot for an apartment in Goregaon West ranges from Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 40,000, varying based on several factors.

Ranveer Singh is glowing with pride as his wife, Deepika Padukone, is honoured with a star on the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame. She will be inducted into the Class of 2026 under the Motion Pictures category, alongside international celebrities such as Emily Blunt, Timothée Chalamet, Rami Malek, Rachel McAdams, Stanley Tucci, and Demi Moore. This milestone marks Deepika as the first Indian actor to receive this esteemed recognition.

Ranveer, known for always cheering on his wife, shared his excitement on Instagram Stories to mark her special achievement. He reposted a news article about the honour and added a sticker of himself with the caption, “Damn, so proud of you.” Along with that, he wrote “Queen” and tagged Deepika, clearly expressing how overjoyed he is.

Earlier, Deepika expressed her heartfelt thanks to her fans and followers on social media. As the announcement of her recognition gained attention, admirers overwhelmed social platforms with messages of love and support. One fan commented, “It’s amazing and I am happy for her and so proud of her, very deserving," while another stated, “It’s an honour to be a fan of this QUEEN." Several others described it as a moment of pride for the whole nation.

Deepika Padukone has long established herself as a global icon. In 2018, she earned a spot on TIME magazine’s list of the 100 most influential people. She was also honored with the TIME100 Impact Award and later made history by presenting the FIFA World Cup trophy at the final match in Qatar—becoming the first Indian actor to do so.

Her global recognition is the outcome of years of dedication and her talent for crossing cultural boundaries. Even as she earns international praise, she stays deeply connected to Indian cinema, consistently delivering back-to-back successes.

On the work front, Deepika will appear in a film directed by Atlee, continuing her run of high-profile and widely anticipated projects.

Also Read : Ranveer Singh to join Maddock Films’ expanding horror-comedy universe?

It was not Shefali Jariwala who first immortalized the song, ‘Kaanta Laga’. Long before the 2002 remix became a pop culture sensation, it was veteran actress Asha Parekh who originally stirred up a storm with the track in 1972, as part of the film Samadhi. The song’s popularity was such that it was even remade in Telugu as Nindu Manishi in 1978.

Shedding light on the origins of the now-iconic number, Asha Parekh shares, “It was part of the film Samadhi, in which Dharmendra and I co-starred. He had a double role — of both father and son. I was paired with the father, and Jaya Bachchan was with the son. It was my good fortune that this big hit song came to me.”

Recalling the energy of the original version, Asha Parekh describes Kaanta Laga as an upbeat folk-dance number composed by the legendary Rahul Dev Burman. “It was peppy and catchy. We were all humming the song while shooting it. But did I ever think it would become such a rage in hindsight? No! Success at that level cannot be predicted by anyone. I remember the song ‘Maar Diya Jaye Ke Chhod Diya Jaye’ in my film Mera Gaon Mera Desh — that too became such a craze, although Lataji’s other songs in the film were also outstanding.”

The veteran actress, often praised for her graceful dancing, added, “I loved dancing in my movies. And the audiences expected me to. I think Kaanta Laga was one of my most popular dance numbers.”

While Shefali Jariwala’s remix brought the song to a new generation, it was Asha Parekh’s original performance that laid the foundation for its enduring legacy.

Also Read: Asha Parekh sets new BFF goals as she takes off on a Kashmir trip with Helen and Waheeda Rehman; shares pics

In a recent heartwarming interview with The Lallantop, Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan opened up about a memorable and unexpected twist on his wedding day. It wasn’t family drama or logistical chaos—but a cricket ball—that cast a shadow over what was supposed to be one of the happiest days of his life.

On April 18, 1986, 21-year-old Aamir and his neighbour-turned-love-interest Reena Dutta secretly married in a court ceremony, defying familial opposition. Their strategy? Keep it under wraps—and it worked. “Mujhe laga sab puchenge kaha the itni der,” Aamir confessed, admitting he and Reena feared their families would question their late return home.

To their surprise, no one noticed—they were too glued to a high-stakes India‑Pakistan cricket match being broadcast that day. Aamir said, “It was India-Pakistan match day. The same match where Javed Miandad hit a six on the last ball. We were winning that match so nobody cared to ask us about our absence for so long. I too joined them and was watching cricket, however, Javed’s six ruined it all.”

Aamir candidly recounted how even he, swept up in the excitement, found his joy shattered. “Once I happened to meet him on the flight when I told him, ‘Javed bhai aapne theek nahi kiya. Aapne meri shadi barbaad kardi .He was like, ‘Kaise?’ I said, Usi din aapne chakka mara tha. Depression mein chala gaya tha mai.”

That day marked not only a historic sporting moment, but also a poignant personal one. It remains a beloved anecdote in Aamir’s life—a reminder of how sport and emotion intertwine in the subcontinent. Today, Aamir and Reena maintain mutual respect as co-parents to their children, Junaid and Ira, even though they parted ways in 2002 after 16 years of marriage.

Also Read : EXCLUSIVE: RS Prasanna on getting Aamir Khan on board for Sitaare Zameen Par: “I had only one person in mind for this story, Aamir Khan”

Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas turned heads at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships, stealing the spotlight with their effortless charm and style. Spotted in the coveted Royal Box at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, the duo radiated joy and affection throughout the afternoon.

Nick shared a glimpse of their VIP experience on Instagram Stories, posting an image of the official Royal Box invitation—two elegant cards bearing their names, alongside another labeled "Afternoon Tea." Adding a personal touch, he posted a candid shot of Priyanka smiling as she held her phone, a teacup resting on the table before her. The scene captured their relaxed and intimate moment amid the tournament buzz.

Priyanka reciprocated with a snapshot of Nick taken from her end of the table, also shared via Instagram Stories. Their exchanges offered fans a rare, behind-the-scenes look into their shared experience—far removed from red carpets and public appearances.

Their presence joined a star-studded guest list in the Royal Box, which included Olivia Rodrigo, John Cena, Dave Grohl, and Dominic Cooper. The powerhouse couple, known for juggling their high-profile careers while raising their daughter Malti in New York, chose Wimbledon as a serene yet glamorous escape. The outing came just after a special screening of Priyanka’s upcoming thriller, Heads of State, held in London the night before—demonstrating their unique blend of work and whimsy.

Off-court, Nick has previously showcased his sweet side through lighthearted moments, including his playful efforts to undo Priyanka’s intricate ponytail after a past Wimbledon match.

This Wimbledon date underscores not only their global celebrity status but also their enduring affection. With quiet smiles, shared tea, and candid photos, Chopra and Jonas brought warmth and authenticity to one of tennis’s most prestigious stages.

Also Read : Varun Dhawan wants to voice Hindi dubs for Priyanka Chopra Jonas starrer Heads of State; reveals THIS in hilarious video

18 years after Life In A Metro, its spiritual successor Metro… In Dino is set to release. Reports suggest that this film marks the final chapter of Anurag Basu’s journey with hyperlinked storytelling. Similar to its predecessor, it explores the complexities of modern relationships through four interconnected stories set across four metro cities—Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. Recently, Anurag Basu shared that the film is a tribute to Irrfan and KK, both of whom played significant roles in Life In A Metro.

In an exclusive conversation with News18 Showsha, Anurag Basu revealed that the idea of a sequel to the 2007 film Life In A Metro actually came from Irrfan himself. Speaking about it, he shared, “Post Jagga Jasoos, Irrfan and I were talking about a sequel to Life In A Metro. He, in fact, had given me the idea to start working on it. He told me, ‘Metro 2 banate hai.’ He told me about it much later, not immediately after the first film.” Interestingly, back in 2017, there were already reports suggesting that Irrfan had signed on and would be part of the second installment.

Anurag Basu, however, admitted that he never initially intended to create a trilogy of hyperlinked films. “I didn’t have any plans of making a trilogy. I was scared if Life In A Metro would even work. It was something very different. But after that, I got a hang of it. I started enjoying writing hyperlinked films. Then Ludo happened," shared the Gangster and Kites director. Despite earlier reports suggesting otherwise, it now appears that Metro… In Dino might not be the final chapter in his series of hyperlinked narratives.

Dating apps, now a key element of modern romance, may have surged in popularity in India after 2007, but Anurag believes that the storyline featuring Konkona Sensharma and Irrfan in Life In A Metro was actually ahead of its time. “Their characters had met online – on a matrimonial site. A lot has changed in these 18 years and we should come to terms with it. People are less expressive in person now. They speak their hearts out, virtually. They can convey all their emotions in a true form online. Aaj kal one-to-one mein nahi hota hai," he observes.

When asked about his personal takeaway from past relationships, Anurag shared, “What love has taught me is that I’ve started seeing the world and stories of people from a woman’s point of view. I’ve learnt to see things from their perspective after falling in love and that has really helped me as a creative person."

Also Read : “Anurag Basu and Pritam are a lethal combination,” says Metro In Dino producer Bhushan Kumar

Bollywood Hungama has been at the forefront in giving news about Andaaz 2 ever since its launch. In November 2023, we announced that it went on the floors. A month later, we informed readers that it’ll launch Aayush Kumar and Akaisha and also star Natasha Fernandez. Earlier this year, producer-director Suneel Darshan unveiled the teaser and exciting posters of the film along with some of the songs. And now, the makers have locked the release date of the film.

Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learned that Andaaz 2 will arrive in cinemas on August 1, 2025. A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “The makers realized that it’s an ideal date for the film considering that there won’t be a significant release on August 8 since it's the pre-Independence week. Hence, Andaaz 2 will get a nice two-week window to prove its worth at the ticket window.”

On this significant occasion of the release date announcement, Andaaz 2 makers also launched four cool posters, again exclusively with Bollywood Hungama. Three posters belong to the leading actors while one poster features all three of them together.

In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama in March 2024, director Suneel Darshan said, “Honestly, there was no calculation behind making Andaaz 2. When I wrote the script, I realized that Andaaz 2 is a befitting title. It's not the same story but somewhere, the storytelling was in the same zone and also, it was a musical and a love triangle just like Andaaz (2003) and much more. That’s how we ended up calling it Andaaz 2.”

In the same interview, Suneel Darshan revealed that he had initially planned to consider Aayush for the role of the lead hero’s friend but later changed his mind. On this, Aayush stated, “I came to meet him, hoping that I would be given some important role in the film. When Suneel sir told me (about the change in plan), I felt very fortunate.”

The music is composed by Nadeem and it is expected to be one of the USPs of the film. Suneel Darshan revealed, “We took our time constructing the music. It was very important to the structure of the film. Also, that era was of Kumar Sanu, Udit Narayan and Alka Yagnik. They worked in all of our films. Sonu Nigam had just come in at that time. But as two decades have passed since then, we have signed new and formidable singers. I retained Shaan as he was appropriate for one of the songs. Neeraj Shridhar has sung one song. From the younger lot, we have Javed Ali, Palak Mucchal, Asees Kaur, Amit Mishra, Mohd Irfan and Shadab Faridi. In short, there are 9 singers.”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Meet Andaaz 2 actor Aayush Kumar, the Gurgaon boy who WALKED OUT of his MBA exam to chase his Bollywood dream: “I knew all the answers. Yet, I didn’t write them. I just walked off”

The trailer of Akshardham: Operation Vajra Shakti, produced by Zee Studios in association with Contiloe Pictures, has gripped audiences with its raw intensity and emotional depth. Inspired by true events, the film brings to the screen. The searing 2002 terrorist attack on the Akshardham Temple in Gujarat and the heroic counter-terror operation that followed. The film is slated for a nationwide theatrical release on July 4, 2025.

Headlined by Akshaye Khanna, with Gautam Rode and Vivek Dahiya in pivotal roles, the film is directed by Ken Ghosh and produced by Abhimanyu Singh. The trailer has already sparked widespread attention for its grounded tone, realistic action, and moving portrayal of sacrifice.

Director Ken Ghosh, reflecting on the making of the film, shared some of the emotionally charged experiences behind the scenes, "Portraying the bravery of commandos, their selfless grit, knowing their lives were at stake yet ready to sacrifice for their country, was just so moving."

“The bridge scene, which is at the end of the film, was actually the first shot. We landed in Manali, and it had just started snowing. That was shot literally in the snow," Ken further added about the logistical challenges faced during filming. While the film promises gripping action and a tense narrative, it’s the emotional honesty, the moments of sacrifice, family, and courage, that sets Akshardham: Operation Vajra Shakti apart.

As the release date approaches, Akshardham: Operation Vajra Shakti is not just being seen as a patriotic thriller, but as a tribute to the bravery, discipline and strength of India’s unsung heroes. Readers may know that the film was earlier released on Zee 5 with the title State of Siege: Temple Attack and it is now released in theatres with this new title.

Also Read: Akshaye Khanna starrer Akshardham: Operation Vajra Shakti gets big-screen release on July 4

The industry trends change every few years. But post-pandemic, the changes have been sudden and also unexpected. Girish Johar, producer and eminent film business analyst, in an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, opened up on aspects like reduced ticket prices, dearth of cinemas, BOGO, losing credibility of reviews, etc, in simple layman terms.

From a trade perspective, can reduced ticket pricing serve as a viable strategy to drive footfall in theatres, or does it risk devaluing the big-screen experience? I am of the firm belief that if theatrical business flourishes, then everything in the ecosystem will benefit. The theatrical economics has to be right. Theatres have tied up with malls and are paying higher rentals. As a result, they need to earn by hiking up the rates of snacks and tickets. Meanwhile, the audience always has the option to catch the film on OTT. They are not ready to watch below-average content on higher ticket prices. Sadly, 90% of the content in today’s times is below average. They argue that why should they pay a bomb to watch such films? This further draws them away from the big screen. This probably can be resolved with reasonable ticket pricing and a regular flow of content. In 2018-19, it was the small and mid-sized films that flourished like Badhaai Ho, Andhandhun, Article 15, etc. These films were expected to collect in the range of Rs. 30-40 crores. But they ended up collecting Rs. 70 crores and in some cases, even more than Rs. 100 crores. Such movies need to be priced averagely. You can’t sell its tickets for Rs. 500. That can be charged for tent-pole films but then there are not more than 10 such films.

I always give the example of cricket. The slog overs do matter and in the case of cinema, these are the tentpole films. But it is the middle overs (that is, mid-sized films) which are crucial. This is when the players need to score 4s and 6s.

Will we ever see a day of Rs. 100 ticket pricing so that the moviegoing experience becomes affordable for the common man? It is possible. It has been implemented during Cinema Days though its effect has now diminished. Also, it should not be held blindly. It should be backed by content which will cater to the audience paying for discounted tickets. In my understanding, it is the regional economics which should derive such pricing. What is stopping such offers in specific regions for a specific day, like say Indore Cinema Day or Bhopal Cinema Day?

In the pre-pandemic era, the attitude of the moviegoer was different. They would turn up to watch any film every week as they were habituated. Now, moviegoers scan the film minutely before watching it. They ask, ‘Is it worth it? Aren’t the ticket rates too high? Will the film be out on OTT soon?’ We need to re-cultivate the habit of the audience of coming to the theatres.

As I said earlier, the more theatres benefit, the more the industry will flourish. More productions will be greenlit, more content will be made. Even allied industries like printing, F&B etc, will benefit. Direct commissioning of films on OTT will also increase.

Meanwhile, the cinemas need to understand that it's not a good idea to promote OTT platforms in cinemas. They might get 2x or 3x the rates for these ads. But when a patron buys a ticket for Rs. 500 or Rs. 1000 and sees an ad stating the OTT subscription is available for Rs. 99 or Rs. 199 per month, the theatres are simply hurting themselves.

From an industry-builder’s point of view: Do you believe stars and studios need to actively invest in cinema infrastructure in underserved regions to expand theatrical reach? There are certain places where there’s no theatre for miles. Whenever I visit Mahabaleshwar-Panchgani, I always wonder where its residents watch films on the big screen? The nearest cinema hall is in Wai, which is 30 kms away… We have seen Aamir Khan, Shah Rukh Khan and John Abraham talking about it. If they or other prominent celebrities come on board with a particular chain and become its brand ambassadors, then nothing like it. It’ll be much better as they’ll understand the ecosystem of cinemas minutely and the taste of the audience. This will help them select and make films accordingly.

Bhai ko, behen ko… Dushman ko, Yaar ko… And of course, apne Pyaar ko… Kal Jawan dikhaaiyega! Chacha-Chachi, Phoopha-Phoophi, Maama-Maami… Yaani Poore Parivaar ko. Sab ke liye ek ke saath ek free ticket!!!

Toh kal se… Parivaar, yaar aur pyaar… Just Buy 1 ticket and get the… pic.twitter.com/Qr9gI4ihcO

— Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) September 27, 2023

With the rise of social media chatter and peer-led opinions, has the traditional influence of film critics and reviews on box office performance diminished? Also, there has been a growing chatter around box office credibility. Is the industry, in trying to create perception, risking long-term damage to its own credibility and sustainability? Yes. I believe that the audience is no longer taking reviews and box office numbers seriously. It has become a marketing tool. The more the industry uses these tactics, the more ineffective it becomes. A critic giving a dishonest review may take money and give a mild or positive review to a poorly made film. The audience will trust his review, go for the movie, get disappointed and wonder, ‘Isne toh bola acchi film hai?’. This way, you can fool the audience once or twice but after that, they’ll lose the trust. They now trust the reviews of a friend or a family member more than the actual critics. I saw that happening with Sitaare Zameen Par as well.

Meanwhile, the audience is bombarded with advance ticket numbers and news of the film collecting Rs. 100 crores. It might tempt the audience to watch the film. But when they go to the theatre and see that the audi is empty, and on top of that when the content is poor, they feel cheated. This promotional tool has gone on for years and now the audience laughs at it. It's also common to see fans of a particular actor posting how the show of a rival actor’s film was full or almost full on BookMyShow. But when they went to watch it, there were a handful of patrons inside.

What are your views on the Buy One Get One Ticket free offer, popularly called BOGO? Does it result in success at the box office for a film? It was a tool used to pull a section of the audience to cinemas, the one which was in two minds. The idea was that the greater number of people watch a film, the more they’ll talk about it and it’ll further attract an additional higher number of moviegoers to cinemas for that particular film. Again, this tool has also backfired. Now the perception is that ‘Film bakwaas hogi; isliye ek pe ek ticket de rahe hai’. Excessive use of anything, that is not in the right spirit, nullifies its USP.

To give you an example, there was a producer who asked the ticketing app to issue BOGO coupons worth Rs. 10 lakhs. Despite getting a free ticket for every ticket, the film failed to get enough audience and the coupons worth Rs. 10 lakhs didn’t even get fully consumed!

A film like Jawan implemented BOGO in its sixth week. Do you think that it makes sense to have the offer just weeks before its OTT premiere? It can tempt that section of the audience, which is waiting for its digital release, to catch the film in cinemas instead. Yes. By the fifth or sixth week, the film has already proved its mettle. It is at the end of its run. If that is when BOGO is implemented, it would be a fair strategy. Again, it depends on the content.

Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan visits sets of Aamir Khan starrer Sitaare Zameen Par, shares iconic moments with cast

Riteish Deshmukh’s portrayal of Sania in Apna Sapna Money Money, where he cross-dressed and adopted the persona of a woman, remains one of his most iconic comic roles. And now, it seems the actor is all set to revisit this memorable character in an upcoming film backed by veteran filmmaker Subhash Ghai.

On June 30, Ghai took to his social media handle to share a still of Riteish in his female avatar from the 2006 comedy. Alongside the image, he wrote, “She is our next heroine in our forthcoming film under Mukta Arts.” He further described him as “a classic beauty.” While the filmmaker has not disclosed additional details about the project, the post has already generated excitement among fans.

It’s worth noting that Apna Sapna Money Money isn’t the only film in which Riteish has played a female character. He also took on similar disguises in Humshakals, a Sajid Khan directorial co-starring Saif Ali Khan and Ram Kapoor.

SHE IS OUR NEXT HEROINE IN OUR FORTHCOMING FILM UNDER MUKTA ARTS ???? A Classic beauty ???? Can u guess the name of this BEAUTIFUL GIRL ? Please do write ????@muktaartsltd @muktaa2cinemas @whistling_woods pic.twitter.com/atNHlJSxJD — Subhash Ghai (@SubhashGhai1) June 30, 2025

For now, fans will have to wait for more updates, but the prospect of seeing Riteish return to his beloved comic timing and cross-dressing antics has certainly created a buzz.

On the professional front, Riteish was last seen in Raid 2, where he played the antagonist opposite Ajay Devgn. He also appeared in the fifth installment of the Housefull franchise. His upcoming slate includes several exciting projects, including Masti 4.

Additionally, Riteish is gearing up to direct his second film, Raja Shivaji, produced by Jio Studios and Mumbai Film Company. The historical action drama is slated for release on May 1, 2026, and will be released in six languages: Marathi, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam.

Also Read: Ajay Devgn and Riteish Deshmukh starrer Raid 2 to premiere on Netflix on June 26

Paresh Rawal was back in the news yesterday, May 29, when he said in a podcast that his issues with Hera Pheri 3 team have been resolved. In the same podcast, hosted by Himanshu Mehta, he also talked about what has gone wrong with Hindi cinema.

Paresh Rawal began by saying, “The choice of subject (is to blame). Also, OTT ne do saal logon ko maze karwaaye lockdown mein. It led to a change in the taste of the audience and the makers haven’t been able to understand the same. Janta bahut aage nikal gayi hai. Some commercial film might work in between but if you keep churning same kind of films, you are bound to fail miserably. I am not saying commercial films shouldn’t be made. But a lot of effort should go into making it. Yeh nahin ki thokampatti karo.”

He further said, “Also, the stardom now will be limited. It won’t go for a long time. Now, every Friday, the star changes.”

Paresh Rawal also slammed inflated ticket rates, “Down South, there’s a slab. The prices can’t be more than Rs. 160 or Rs. 200. If the rate goes beyond that slab, then the films won’t work. If the aam junta shuns your film and only the rich class endorses your films, then it’s wrong.”

He also criticized the recliner seats section in multiplexes, “You are supposed to watch a film while sitting. Let ke nahin dekhi jaati. You haven’t come to a spa, you have come to see a film! Also, waiters keep roaming around. We have to tell them ‘Hatt, hatt’. Arre it’s a film, not a wedding event. Because of all this gandagi – gold class et al – you don’t feel like going to cinemas.”

He further explained, “It’s okay to sit comfortably on a seat. But why sit (lying down) with a pillow? Aise hi baithna hai toh spa mein jao ya fir mujra dekhne jao (laughs)!”

Paresh Rawal continued while also touching upon the high prices of food and beverages, “If a middle-class family, comprising 5-6 members, go to watch a film, unke Rs. 5000-6000 toh yuh nikal jaate hai. Also, there’s no guarantee that the film will satisfy you. On top of that, the kids will of course ask for popcorn, soda and ice cream (which also adds to the expenditure).”

Also Read: BREAKING: Baburao returns; Paresh Rawal reveals that Hera Pheri 3 issue has been resolved

Despite their debut projects receiving lukewarm responses, star kids Rasha Thadani and Ibrahim Ali Khan continue to enjoy significant popularity on social media. Now, there’s an exciting update for their fans—if reports are to be believed, the two are all set to share screen space for the first time in an upcoming film.

According to a report by Mid-Day, a source close to the production revealed, “Ibrahim and Rasha have been doing reading sessions and workshops. The makers were clear that they didn’t want just a glamorous pair, but two actors who could tap into the awkward, exhilarating energy of first love. Rasha and Ibrahim clicked from their very first meeting.” The source further added, “While he debuted with a rom-com, Ibrahim will be seen in intense roles in Sarzameen and Diler, the latter featuring him as a marathoner. After those two outings, this film—with its coming-of-age arc—will showcase a softer and more relatable side of him.”

If confirmed, this project would mark Ibrahim’s second foray into the romantic genre. His debut film Naadanaiyaan, which was released directly on Netflix, was a romantic comedy. However, his performance received mixed to negative feedback, with critics pointing out issues with his expressions, dialogue delivery, and dubbing.

On the other hand, Rasha made her debut in the theatrical release Azaad, which also introduced Ajay Devgn’s nephew, Aaman Devgn. While the film didn’t fare well at the box office, Rasha’s performance was appreciated by audiences.

It will certainly be interesting to see Rasha and Ibrahim come together for a romantic drama. As of now, there has been no official confirmation or denial from the actors or the makers. Fans will have to wait for an official announcement.

Also Read: Ibrahim Ali Khan misses Sara Ali Khan in London, pens adorable poem in response to her post; watch

Over the weekend, the sudden death of actress and television personality Shefali Jariwala received widespread media attention. While the exact cause of her death remains unclear, condolences from her peers and fans continue to pour in online. Among those who expressed their grief was Priyanka Chopra Jonas, who shared her shock over the untimely passing of the Kaanta Laga star. For those unaware, Shefali made a cameo appearance in Priyanka’s film Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, which also starred Salman Khan and Akshay Kumar.

On June 29, Priyanka took to her Instagram Stories to share a portrait photo of Shefali, accompanied by a heartfelt caption: “So shook. She was too young. Sending condolences to Parag and the family.”

Shefali was rushed to the hospital from her residence in Andheri on June 27 after her health suddenly deteriorated. However, she was declared dead on arrival. As per reports, her post-mortem findings have ruled out any foul play, and an Accidental Death Report (ADR) has been filed. The investigation is ongoing to determine the precise cause of her death.

Shefali is survived by her husband, actor Parag Tyagi. A new statement from an Amboli police officer revealed, “The doctor informed us that they suspect the cause of death could be a dip in her blood pressure.”

Also Read: Varun Dhawan SLAMS insensitive media coverage following Shefali Jariwala’s death: “Why do you have to cover someone’s grief?”

Filmmaker Anil Sharma took a break from his patriotic action films and came up with an emotional family drama in the form of Apne. The film brought together Dharmendra with his two sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol for the first time while it also starred Katrina Kaif and Shilpa Shetty in pivotal roles.

Veteran legend Dharmendra went down memory lane on Apne as the film completed 18 years today.

He said, “Apne is a film I am extremely proud of. It brought me and my two sons together. (Director) Anil Sharma wrote a script that did justice to all three of our characters. I remember we felt like a family on and off screen while shooting Apne.”

Speaking about the film’s sequel, Dharmendra added, “We have asked Anil to write a sequel. And he is in the process of writing Apne 2.” The sequel will also star Sunny Deol’s elder son Karan Deol. He was launched in 2019 with the romantic drama Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas.

Also Read: Dharmendra opens up on his youthful spirit; says, “Many people call me old, but I am still young”

Vidya Balan is one Bollywood actress known for expressing her opinions openly. In a recent conversation, she discussed her views on current trends in filmmaking. Speaking honestly, Vidya reflected on how contemporary filmmakers are moving away from the elements that gave Indian cinema its timeless charm. She pointed out that numerous young directors, inspired by global content, seem to have lost touch with the core of 'our' unique storytelling tradition.

At the third edition of Bollywood Hungama Style Icons Summit and Awards 2025 (BH Style Icons S3) Vidya confessed, "I may sound like too much of a senior when I say this, but they don't know what our kind of storytelling is! It is alienating, it is not engrossing me."

Vidya feels that the emotional bond between a film and its audience often fades when close-up shots are missing. "A lot of these directors don't even use close-ups. I find that shocking," she said with conviction. To her, close-ups are essential because they allow characters to communicate silently, giving viewers a glimpse into their soul through their eyes. She believes this straightforward approach is what makes 'masala' films so entertaining—they are boldly emotional, sincere, and without preteens, enabling audiences to genuinely 'feel' the experience instead of overanalysing it.

Continuing the discussion, Vidya brought up Shah Rukh Khan as an ideal example. Famous for his signature arms-stretched-wide pose, SRK has charmed fans and captured hearts with this iconic move for years. However, Vidya emphasized that it wasn’t merely the gesture that earned him the title of King of Hearts. "Imagine if he was only doing this (imitates the pose), he won't be as loved," she added, “Shah Rukh’s expressive eyes and the raw vulnerability shown in his close-up shots that truly made the nation fall for him.”

The Style Icons Summit and Awards 2025 presented by Virgio, driven by TVS Raider, powered by Nesterra, along with premium lingerie partner Amante, jewellery partner Caratlane, smile partner toothsi, style partner Biba, watches partner Helios, kitchen partner Prestige, beauty partner Mars, skincare partner Fixderma, snacking partner Happilo, footwear partner Red Chief, radio partner Radio City, glam partner Looks Salon, and gifting partner FnP.

Also Read : Vidya Balan named brand ambassador for Welspun’s new 360° campaign

Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan has paid a heartfelt tribute to his son Abhishek Bachchan on the milestone of completing 25 years in the film industry, publicly bowing to him and showering praise.

A video montage recently surfaced featuring Abhishek in various iconic roles over the years. The caption accompanying it read, “Celebrating 25 years of @juniorbachchan, the man who mastered wit, timing, and that unbeatable comic swag. Here’s to the laughs that never missed!”

Reacting to the tribute, Amitabh wrote in a social media post, “Is Variety ko maine pranaam karta hoon, aur apne putra ki sarahna karta hoon. Jee haan, pita hoon main uska, aur mere liye mera putra Abhishek sarahna karne yogya hai …(I bow to this variety and I praise my son. Yes, I’m his father, and for me, my son Abhishek is worthy of praise).”

T 5425 - ek chap ke kuch hi dinon mein , release hone waali hai .. aur ek aur nayi film ki shuruaat ho gayi hai .. pehla din film 'KING' ki shooting ... My blessings Bhaiyu .. love and more ❤️ And one more film shooting is complete and ready and coming soon .. my prayers ever… — Amitabh Bachchan (@SrBachchan) June 28, 2025

The proud father went on to extend his blessings for Abhishek’s future projects, referencing multiple films in progress. In another post, Amitabh wrote, “Ek chap ke kuch hi dinon mein, release hone waali hai .. aur ek aur nayi film ki shuruaat ho gayi hai .. pehla din film KING ki shooting … My blessings Bhaiyu .. love and more. And one more film shooting is complete and ready and coming soon .. my prayers ever .”

On the work front, Abhishek made his cinematic debut in Refugee (2000). He gained critical acclaim and Filmfare Awards for early roles in Dhoom (2004), Yuva (2004), Sarkar (2005), and Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna (2006).

His 2024 film I Want to Talk, directed by Shoojit Sircar, won praise for his portrayal of cancer survivor Arjun Sen.

Abhishek is set to star in  Kaalidhar Laapata, slated for ZEE5 release. Additionally, the shooting of King is underway, and another film is in post-production, both strongly endorsed by Amitabh’s blessings.

Also Read : 1 year of Kalki 2898 AD: Inside the world of the Prabhas starrer – The making of India’s most ambitious sci-fi film

Ever since the trailer of Sardaar Ji 3 was released, Diljit Dosanjh has remained in the headlines. While some are calling for a ban on the actor-singer, others are empathizing with the producers, citing their lack of control over the recent conflict. Now, renowned writer and lyricist Javed Akhtar has weighed in on the controversy surrounding the release of Sardaar Ji 3.

Speaking at NDTV’s Creators Manch, Akhtar said, “Ab kya karein bechara. The movie was shot earlier. Usko pata toh nahin tha ki aisa hoga. Ismein Pakistani aadmi ka paisa toh nahin doobega, Hindustani ka paisa doobega. Toh phir kya faayda? (Translation: “What can he do now? The film was shot earlier. He didn’t know this would happen. No Pakistani money is at stake, only Indian money is. So what’s the point of halting it?)”

For the uninitiated, both the film and Diljit are facing backlash over the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in an Indian production. The criticism intensified after the Pahalgam terror attack, which was followed by India’s counter-operation, Operation Sindoor. Hania Aamir was among several Pakistani artists who publicly criticized the operation, further fuelling outrage.

He further added, “Usko pehle pata hota yeh hone wala hai, toh woh thodi na leta Pakistani actress. I think the government and the censor board should look at the situation with a little sympathy. And say that don’t do this again, but since you made this film before, release it. But it should not happen again.”

Akhtar’s remarks come at a time when Diljit Dosanjh is under increasing scrutiny. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) recently sent a letter to filmmaker Imtiaz Ali, urging him to cut ties with the singer-actor. Imtiaz is working with Diljit on an upcoming untitled film, which is set for a Baisakhi 2026 release.

Amid the ongoing controversy, there were also reports suggesting that Diljit had been dropped from Border 2. However, these reports were later denied. As of now, Diljit Dosanjh has not publicly addressed the situation.

It’s worth noting that, due to rising Indo-Pak tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack, the makers of Sardaar Ji 3 opted for an overseas-only release. The film was released internationally on June 27, 2025, skipping its domestic release entirely.

Also Read: Mika Singh urges Diljit Dosanjh to apologise over Hania Aamir’s casting in Sardaar Ji 3: “He must apologise and remove all the objectionable scenes from the movie”

Actress Ileana D’Cruz may appear less frequently on the big screen these days and rarely gives interviews. Still, she continues to keep her fans updated about her personal life, be it her pregnancy journey or the challenges of motherhood. On June 28, the actress shared yet another heartwarming update: the birth of her second child, a baby boy, with husband Michael Dolan.

For those unaware, Ileana and Michael tied the knot in an intimate ceremony in 2023 and welcomed their first child, Koa Phoenix Dolan, in August of the same year.

Taking to Instagram, Ileana shared an adorable monochrome photograph showing the newborn sleeping peacefully. Along with the picture, she wrote, “Our hearts are so full.” The image also revealed the name and birthdate of their second child, Keanu Rafe Dolan, born on June 19, 2025.

Thousands of her fans took to the comments section to congratulate the actress. Among them was her Barfi! co-star Priyanka Chopra, who commented, “Congratulations beautiful.”

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Ileana D'Cruz (@ileana_official)

Ileana had confirmed her second pregnancy in October 2024. A few months later, she hosted an Ask Me Anything session on Instagram, during which she opened up about her parenting values. “People, and especially kids, should be taught that being cruel, wicked, unkind or selfish are not lovable traits… Love has to be earned, just like respect and happiness,” she said. She added, “I want to raise happy, healthy, kind children (I’m sure all parents do), and I will do my best to ensure that they know how loved they are.”

On the professional front, Ileana was last seen in Do Aur Do Pyaar (2024), co-starring Pratik Gandhi, Vidya Balan, and Sendhil Ramamurthy. Before that, she featured in Tera Kya Hoga Lovely (2022). When Raid 2 was announced, fans were eager to see her reprise her role in the Ajay Devgn-led sequel. However, due to the responsibilities of early motherhood, Ileana opted out of the film and was eventually replaced by Vaani Kapoor.

Also Read: Ileana D’Cruz announces second pregnancy with baby bump photo: “I want to raise happy, healthy, kind children”

Shefali Jariwala, best known for her appearance in the iconic music video ‘Kaanta Laga’, passed away on June 27, 2025, at the age of 42.

According to news agency ANI, "Mumbai Police received information about this at 1 a.m. Her body has been sent to Cooper Hospital for postmortem. The cause of death is not yet clear." However, the All Indian Cine Workers Association has claimed that Shefali Jariwala died due to a heart attack. Fans will have to wait for an official confirmation from the authorities or her husband, actor Parag Tyagi.

Shefali Jariwala is no longer with us. Gone too soon at just 42 due to a sudden heart attack. It’s hard to believe she’s gone. May her soul rest in peace, and may God give strength to her family during this heartbreaking time.#RIPShefaliJariwala #GoneTooSoon #RestInPeace… pic.twitter.com/ZUnI3WlETr

— All Indian Cine Workers Association (@AICWAOfficial) June 28, 2025

For those unfamiliar, Shefali rose to fame with her dance performance in 'Kaanta Laga.' Following the song’s success, she went on to participate in several reality shows, including Nach Baliye 5, Nach Baliye 7 (alongside Parag Tyagi), and Bigg Boss 13. Shefali had a strong social media presence, with 3.3 million followers on Instagram and 135k on X (formerly Twitter).

Notably, her last tweet was a heartfelt tribute to the late actor and her ex-boyfriend, Sidharth Shukla. The post, shared on September 2, 2024, featured a photo of the two hugging inside the Bigg Boss 13 house, accompanied by the caption: “Thinking of you today mere dost.”

Thinking of you today mere dost @sidharth_shukla ❤️ pic.twitter.com/sZNv6Ft1hG — Shefali Jariwala (@shefalijariwala) September 2, 2024

The news of Shefali’s sudden passing has shocked the film and television industry. Colleagues, co-stars, and friends took to social media to express their grief. Bigg Boss fame Aly Goni wrote on X, “Shocked and saddened to hear about Shefali Jariwala’s sudden demise. Life is so unpredictable. Rest in peace.”

Yeh Hai Mohabbatein actress Divyanka Tripathi shared, “It’s unbelievable. We are shocked and sad for the family.”

Singer Mika Singh also mourned her loss, writing, “I’m deeply shocked, saddened, and feeling a heavy heart… Our beloved star and my dearest friend @shefalijariwala has left us. Still can’t believe it. You will always be remembered for your grace, smile, and spirit. Om Shanti.”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Kaanta Laga girl Shefali Jariwala REACTS to paparazzi shooting her backside; says, “I have never felt disrespected by them”

Bollywood superstar Kareena Kapoor Khan recently offered an intimate glimpse into her life as a working mother—and the small tensions brewing at home. In a candid chat with Vicky Kaushal, she revealed how her career commitments have begun to test her sons’ patience, especially after her husband’s sudden absence due to filming.

In a conversation hosted by The Hollywood Reporter India, Vicky asked Kareena how her children handle her being away for shoots.

“It gets tough. This year, Saif went out and shot for two films, so they were used to Mumma being home. Now, if I go to shoot—like for a couple of days, when I’m shooting for ads, 10–15 days a month—they’re constantly irritated. They’re always like, ‘Where is Amma?’,” Kareena said.

Clearly, the kids had grown accustomed to Mumma’s presence. When Kareena had a similar workload—advertising commitments that pulled her away for extended stretches—Taimur and Jeh struggled to understand her absence. It’s a relatable scenario for many working families, albeit with a Bollywood twist.

Kareena then shed light on how her husband, actor Saif Ali Khan, has become the fun parent in her stead, “They love it when Saif is there, because Saif is such a lovely father, and he is a hands-on father. Also, they get extra TV time when he is around. My elder one loves to play guitar and drums with Saif. When I am not around, they always get extra TV time. The father always spoils them; otherwise, I am always like ‘Go to bed’,” she added.

Kareena doesn’t sugarcoat it—she’s the bedtime enforcer, while Saif plays dad the kids adore. More screen time, more play, fewer sleep reminders—a contrast that Taimur and Jeh clearly prefer on days when Mumma is absent.

Despite occasional toddler tantrums, Kareena’s commitment to both career and family remains unwavering. Her transparency reinforces that even Bollywood’s brightest faces pause when family calls—and sometimes miss their mum.

Kareena Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan got married in 2012. Fondly known as ‘Saifeena’ by their fans, the couple first crossed paths while working on the film Tashan in 2008, and their bond quickly turned romantic. They became parents to their first son, Taimur Ali Khan, in 2016, followed by the birth of their second son, Jehangir Ali Khan (Jeh), in 2021.

On the work front, Kareena Kapoor is set to team up with Malayalam star Prithviraj Sukumaran for the first time in Daayra. The film, directed by Meghna Gulzar, will tackle intense themes of crime and justice while shedding light on pressing and disturbing social issues. Currently in pre-production, the project is co-written by Meghna Gulzar, Yash Keswani, and Sima Agarwal.

Also Read : Kareena Kapoor Khan calls Vicky Kaushal ‘The best actor of this generation’; praises his bold film choices

The mythological-horror film Maa was released today, June 27, and it has caught attention due to the genre, trailer, concept and association of Kajol. The film begins with the mention of Sujoy Ghosh and his director-daughter Diya Annapurna Ghosh under ‘Special Thanks’. It's sure to make a lot of people curious about the same as Sujoy is not associated with the project in any capacity.

This writer, too, was very curious and reached out exclusively to Sujoy Ghosh to understand the reason behind his and Diya’s mention. Sujoy, who is currently in London, explained, “My daughter Diya held the rights to the title ‘Maa’. She wanted to make a film with that title. One day, Ajay called me and expressed the desire to have the title for his film. I asked Diya about it. She agreed to part with the title. Her script is still under development and it’ll take time before her film can go on floors. On the other hand, Ajay and his team were all set to roll. Hence, we decided to live and let live (smiles).”

He added, “We’ll now think of some other title for our film.”

Sujoy Ghosh also revealed, “Diya is a fan of Ajay Devgn. We are also his fans. Diya was bowled over by the fact that Ajay Devgn asked her for the title rights. It was a true fan moment for her (laughs).”

Maa is backed by Jio Studios and Devgn Films and is directed by Vishal Furia. It also stars Ronit Roy, Kherin Sharma, Indraneil Sengupta and Dibyendu Bhattacharya in leading roles.

Diya Annapurna Ghosh, meanwhile, debuted as a director with the Zee5 flick Bob Biswas (2021) starring Abhishek Bachchan and Chitrangda Singh. It was a spin-off to the 2012 acclaimed thriller, Kahaani, which was incidentally directed by Sujoy Ghosh.

As for Sujoy Ghosh, he last directed Jaane Jaan (2023), starring Kareena Kapoor Khan, Vijay Varma and Jaideep Ahlawat. It dropped directly on Netflix and was one of the most-viewed films on the streaming giant that year.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: No cuts, no ‘A’ rating – Kajol-starrer Maa is a RARE horror film to be awarded with a U/A certificate

Actor Ajay Devgn paid tribute to his late father Veeru Devgn on his birth anniversary. On Wednesday, he shared a black-and-white photo on Instagram, writing, “You recognised the hero in me long before the world did. Happy Birthday, dad. I miss you always.”

Kajol also paid a heartfelt tribute to Veeru Devgn. She posted a black-and-white photo of the late action director with the caption, “Thinking of you on this special day.”

Netizens flooded the comments section with love and admiration. One user wrote, “Amazing pic… Ajay sir.” Another fan commented, “Legend Action Guru Ji.”

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Veeru Devgn was a renowned action director in the film industry, having worked on over 200 films, including Lal Baadshah, Mr Natwarlal, Phool Aur Kaante, and many others. In 1999, he made his directorial debut with Hindustan Ki Kasam, which featured Ajay Devgn, Amitabh Bachchan, and Manisha Koirala in lead roles.

After struggling with breathing issues and multiple health complications for an extended period, the veteran action director passed away on the morning of May 27, 2019, at his Mumbai residence.

On the work front, Ajay Devgn recently announced the release date of Son of Sardar 2, describing it as “a return of Sardaar.”

The first instalment of Son of Sardaar, directed by Ashwani Dhir, starred Ajay Devgn alongside Sonakshi Sinha. The story followed Jassi, a man who returns to his ancestral village in Punjab and finds himself caught in the middle of a long-standing family feud.

Ajay Devgn was last seen in Raid 2, which hit theatres on May 1. In the film, he shared screen space with Riteish Deshmukh.

Produced by Bhushan Kumar, Kumar Mangat Pathak, Abhishek Pathak, and Krishan Kumar, the sequel was directed by Raj Kumar Gupta. The film continues the narrative of the 2018 crime thriller, known for its intense portrayal of tax raids and corruption. Vaani Kapoor and Rajat Kapoor are also part of the film.

Ajay Devgn’s 2018 film Raid featured Saurabh Shukla and Ileana D'Cruz alongside him. Inspired by a real-life income tax raid from the 1980s, the film saw Ileana portraying Ajay's wife.

Also Read : Kajol shares the secret to her married life with Ajay Devgn: “It is partial deafness and selective amnesia”

Kajol, celebrated for her sharp wit and enduring charm, recently shared a playful yet meaningful perspective on maintaining a strong marriage. In a new interview, the Kuch Kuch Hota Hai actress revealed her personal secret to a lasting and happy relationship with her husband, actor Ajay Devgn.

In an interview with Mashable India, Kajol opened up about the amusing contrast in her relationship with husband Ajay Devgn—while he prefers to stay quiet, she enjoys talking. When asked how they manage their differences, she humorously replied, “Oh, I say that quite often—the secret to a happy marriage is partial deafness and selective amnesia.”

Kajol went on to explain with a laugh, “Kuch cheezein bhoolni bohot zaruri hai, aur kuch cheezein na sunni bohot zaruri hai.”

In the same interview, Kajol also revealed Ajay Devgn’s hidden culinary talent. She shared that Ajay is one of the best cooks she’s come across. “Unki khaasiyat hai, vo kisi bhi cheez ko ek baar taste karte hai, he would know how to make it exactly the same,” she said, adding, “He would never tell you his secret ingredients for his recipes.”

Kajol and Ajay Devgn have been married for over two decades. Their first meeting took place on the sets of Hulchul in 1995. After dating for nearly four years, the couple tied the knot in 1999. Over the years, they’ve managed to juggle thriving film careers while raising their two children—Nysa, born in 2003, and Yug, born in 2010. The duo has also shared the screen in nine films, including hits like Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha, Ishq, Dil Kya Kare, Raju Chacha, and U, Me Aur Hum.

Also Read : Kajol recalls feeling isolated on Ishq sets: “Aamir was very friendly with the director and so was Juhi”

Paresh Rawal played a key role in the Hera Pheri series, and his departure from the upcoming third installment surprised many fans. Actress Sonakshi Sinha shared a similar sentiment, expressing that she couldn't picture Hera Pheri without the veteran actor.

In an interview with IANS, Sonakshi Sinha shared, “I can't imagine Hera Pheri 3 without Paresh Rawal.” She also emphasized that his presence was essential to maintaining the essence and appeal of the beloved comedy series.

Sonakshi, who is set to appear next in the supernatural thriller Nikita Roy, spoke about her “fantastic” experience working with Paresh Rawal on the film. She said, “I think it was such an honour for me to share screen space with an actor of his calibre. And, you know, in terms of his body of work and how amazing he is, it was an amazing experience for me.”

Kussh S Sinha, the director of Nikita Roy and Sonakshi Sinha's brother, also spoke highly of Paresh Rawal, offering nothing but praise for the veteran actor.

In an interview with ETimes, Kussh S Sinha expressed his gratitude for having Paresh Rawal join Nikita Roy, saying, “I feel extremely fortunate that we just had to have two meetings with him and he was on board. That gave me confidence when he came on board.”

He further praised the veteran actor, adding, “He is spoilt for choice. Because Paresh ji is such a capable actor, any director would want to work with him. 99 percent of the industry would want to work with Paresh Rawal ji.”

As per reports, Paresh Rawal exited Hera Pheri 3 due to creative differences and financial issues. However, in May, he dismissed these claims through a post on X.

In his statement, Paresh Rawal clarified, “I wish to put it on record that my decision to step away from Hera Pheri 3 was not due to creative differences. I reiterate that there are no creative disagreements with the filmmaker. I hold immense love, respect, and faith in Mr Priyadarshan, the film director.”

Meanwhile, Nikita Roy, starring Sonakshi Sinha, also features Arjun Rampal in a significant role. The film is scheduled for a theatrical release on June 27.

Also Read : Sonakshi Sinha reflects on Salman Khan’s unexpected role in her love story with Zaheer Iqbal: “It was because of him that we met”

Emraan Hashmi, who was diagnosed with dengue on May 28 while filming his upcoming pan-Indian film They Call Him OG, has recovered and is back on set. He has resumed shooting in Mumbai.

Emraan Hashmi shared, “I am back in action, and it feels good! I took some time off to recover from dengue, but now I am fully recovered and back on set. A big thank you to everyone for all the love and thoughtful messages! I am excited to get back to the hustle and bring something exciting to the screen soon.”

It is worth mentioning here that Bollywood Hungama was the first publication to report on Emraan's health. A well-placed industry source told us, "Emraan Hashmi was shooting for OG in Aarey Colony, Goregaon, Mumbai. That’s where he contracted the disease. He was not feeling well and had dengue-like symptoms. On the recommendation of the doctors, he got his tests done. The test confirmed that he is suffering from dengue."

Speaking of the project, OG will mark Emraan Hashmi’s debut in Telugu cinema. The film also stars Pawan Kalyan in the leading role, along with Priyanka Mohan as the female lead. Meanwhile, Emraan will essay the role of the antagonist. OG is all set to release in cinemas worldwide on September 25. It is produced by DVV Entertainment of RRR (2022) fame and directed by Sujeeth of Saaho (2019) fame.

Also Read: Emraan Hashmi to begin shooting Awarapan 2 in July after two-year script refinement; says the film “picked up over time through the internet, YouTube, and Torrent”

Cricket and cinema hold a special place in the hearts of Indians, and when the two worlds collide, the excitement among fans is palpable. After successful biopics on Indian cricketers like MS Dhoni and Kapil Dev, audiences have been eagerly awaiting the Sourav Ganguly biopic. Now, it appears the wait is finally over.

In a recent conversation with NDTV, Rajkummar Rao officially confirmed that he will be playing the role of former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly in the much-anticipated biopic. “Now that Dada has already said it, let me also make it official — yes, I am playing him in his biopic,” Rao said. “I am nervous... It's a huge responsibility, but it's going to be a lot of fun,” he added.

Speculations around the casting had been circulating for a while, with names like Ranbir Kapoor and Ayushmann Khurrana also being considered. However, Ganguly himself seemed to have endorsed Rao recently, giving a strong indication of the actor’s selection.

Just a few days ago, in an interaction with PTI, Ganguly had spoken about the film’s progress. “It's going well. It will be released next December. Shooting starts in January. The pre-production, story writing, and scripting take a lot of time. Shooting doesn't take that much time — it's about three months — and then the post-production takes time,” the former cricketer said.

Rajkummar Rao’s casting comes fresh off the heels of his recent appearance in Mr. & Mrs. Mahi, a fictional sports drama centred around cricket. Currently, he is busy promoting his upcoming film Maalik, which is slated for theatrical release on July 11.

Also Read: Rajkummar Rao grows his beard for 80 days for Maalik, fans can’t get enough

After a fantastic last week for Bollywood thanks to the Aamir Khan-starrer Sitaare Zameen Par, the trade and industry now gears up for another exciting film, Maa. The trailer of the film caught attention due to the casting of Kajol, the horror genre, and the subject. The only concern was that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) might ask for several cuts and even after doing so, they might award an ‘A’ certificate to the film. But with this film, the CBFC has given a pleasant surprise to one and all.

As per the cut list, the CBFC has passed the film without a single audio or visual cut. A source told Bollywood Hungama, “With CBFC, one can never know. In Sitaare Zameen Par, the members asked for Michael Jackson to be replaced by ‘lovebirds’ and ‘Business Woman’ was changed to ‘Business Person’. That and the insistence on adding a quote from the Prime Minister led to a storm. Hence, the fear was that when a clean film like Sitaare Zameen Par gets such cuts, what would happen to Maa which is a horror flick.”

The source continued, “However, the CBFC’s Examining Committee didn’t cut a single shot, though a few scenes are disturbing. And that’s not all. They also allowed the film to have a U/A 16+ rating. This means that the under-18 crowd can also view this film.”

This is a rarity because most horror or supernatural films are given an ‘A’ certificate like Chhorii 2 (2025), 1920: Horrors Of The Heart (2023), Bhoot: Part One – The Haunted Ship (2020), Amavas (2019), Ghost (2019), Tumbbad (2018) etc. The only other supernatural Hindi film of recent times which didn’t get an adults-only certificate was Shaitaan (2024); like Maa, it was also backed by Devgn Films and Jio Studios. Horror comedies, meanwhile, are passed with a U/A certificate though.

Coming back to Maa, the CBFC, however, simply asked the makers to increase the disclaimer length up to readable time and also asked them to add about "anti-girl child and human sacrifice" details. Lastly, as per the rules in force since 2021, the makers were told to mention the title of the film in Hindi as well.

Once these changes were made, the censor certificate was handed to the makers of Maa on June 20. The length of the film, as mentioned on the censor certificate, is 135.35 minutes, that is, 2 hours 15 minutes and 35 seconds.

Maa releases in cinemas on June 27.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Jitin Gulati shares his excitement about being part of Kajol starrer Maa; says, “It was an easy yes”

Punjabi singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh, who made a notable debut at the Met Gala 2025, has opened up about his experience at the global fashion spectacle and shared a heartwarming anecdote involving Bollywood icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas. Dosanjh, who is among the few Indian entertainers to have walked the prestigious Met Gala red carpet, took to social media shortly after the event to share behind-the-scenes glimpses. But in a recent interview with BBC Asian Network, the Chamkila actor reflected on his emotional moment with Priyanka Chopra at the venue.

“Thanks to Priyanka Chopra,” Diljit recalled. “Main jab gaya toh voh vahan thi already and Priyanka also came to me and said, ‘Diljit main idhar hi bethi hun, tereko kisi bhi cheez ki zarurat ho just say PC and main jaldi se aajaungi.’ Aur mera tabhi mann bhar aaya tha.” (Translation: “When I arrived, she was already there. She came to me and said, ‘Diljit, I’m sitting right here. If you need anything, just say PC and I’ll be there immediately.’ That filled my heart.”)

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Dosanjh, who admitted to feeling slightly out of place at such a high-profile global event, also shared another meaningful encounter. “When I went to my table, there was another Sardar boy who helped me a lot. I didn’t know anyone there. I hadn’t been to any parties before. But he came to my table and served me everything. He was actually serving food there,” the actor said, visibly moved.

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Sardaar Ji 3 Release Update Amid Backlash On the professional front, Diljit is awaiting the release of Sardaar Ji 3, a Punjabi horror-comedy slated to premiere on June 27. However, the film has been surrounded by controversy due to the casting of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. In light of recent geopolitical tensions, including the Pahalgam terror attack, the filmmakers have decided not to release the film in India. Instead, it will be released exclusively in overseas markets.

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Despite this decision, the makers and Dosanjh himself have come under fire from a section of netizens and film industry representatives, with calls to boycott the film due to its collaboration with a Pakistani artist.

Also Read: Ashoke Pandit calls for boycott of Diljit Dosanjh over Sardaar Ji 3 collaboration with Pakistani actress Hania Aamir

After her viral appearance in October, Nora Fatehi returns to Paris Fashion Week. She is set to attend the Louis Vuitton Men’s Spring-Summer 2026 collection by Pharrell Williams, marking her presence at one of fashion’s major global events.

She posted a video on her Instagram story, whispering, “We are on our way for fittings and LV and we are going to kill it this time just like last year, we are going to do an ASMR of our fittings. Are you ready?” setting the tone for another fashion moment.

Her last appearance at Paris Fashion Week drew attention for her white body-con dress paired with a statement trench coat, a look that sparked conversation and gained widespread visibility online.

Now, as she returns to the fashion capital, Nora is set to make another appearance that reflects her evolving style. Her presence at Paris Fashion Week highlights her continued efforts to represent India on the global stage.

Fashion isn’t the only space Nora Fatehi is active in. Her international music collaboration Snake with Jason Derulo has crossed 130 million views. She also appeared at the American Music Awards in a custom Tom Ford look and wore Oscar de la Renta at the Vanity Fair Oscar After Party. From Billboard features to a presence in Allure, Nora Fatehi’s return to Paris Fashion Week reflects her ongoing engagement with both fashion and global entertainment.

Also Read: Sonakshi Sinha highlights why middle-class families are avoiding cinemas: “The theatre-going experience has become very expensive for a regular family”

The stage is set for Kannappa, Vishnu Manchu’s long-awaited mythological epic, as advance bookings officially open today in North America and on June 25 in India. Slated to hit theatres worldwide on Friday, June 27, the film is poised for one of the biggest ever global openings for a Telugu-language film — and possibly the first devotional drama to aim for a ₹100-crore day-one gross.

Boasting a massive rollout on 5,400+ screens globally, Kannappa is being touted as a pan-India spiritual spectacle with international appeal. The film will screen in over 4,300 locations across India, including all major premium formats, and over 1,100 locations overseas, with the U.S. hosting 200+ premiere shows — a record-breaking number for a devotional Telugu film. “Our aim is to bring Bhakta Kannappa’s devotion to every home,” says lead actor-producer Vishnu Manchu. “If audiences feel the love we poured in, the numbers will follow.”

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Directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh, Kannappa weaves the legendary tale of Bhakta Kannappa and features Akshay Kumar as Lord Shiva, alongside star cameos from Mohanlal, Prabhas, and others. The film’s high production values are supported by Wētā Workshop’s VFX and a soundtrack composed by Stephen Devassy. Industry insiders suggest that strong distributor advances, robust corporate bookings, and momentum on ticketing platforms like BookMyShow, PayTM Movies, Fandango, and Atom Tickets point toward a historic opening weekend. The Rs 100-crores global opening day mark is within reach — an unprecedented feat for a devotional genre film.

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Key Dates:

Advance Bookings in North America: Open from Monday, June 23

Advance Bookings in India: Open from Wednesday, June 25

Worldwide Release: Friday, June 27

Also Read: Akshay Kumar praises Vishnu Manchu’s devotion to Kannappa: “He’s truly lived and breathed this film”

Finally, you’re moving ahead after Karan Johar’s Jigra? Yes, finally! It’s been a long wait, but it’s all been worth it. It’s a dream to be working with Imtiaz sir.

How did Imtiaz Ali come into the picture? I had a meeting with him a long time ago, after my debut series The Archies released. It was just a casual, friendly conversation. Then, almost a year or year-and-a-half later, we met again, and he discussed the idea for this story. I was very excited.

Have you seen Imtiaz Ali’s films? I’ve seen all of them, except his first — Socha Na Tha. Rockstar and Chamkila are probably my favourites. But Jab We Met, Tamasha — they’re all classics. He understands human emotions and dilemmas like no one else, and he presents them so poetically on screen.

Your debut was directed by Zoya Akhtar, your second is a Karan Johar production, and now Imtiaz Ali... Are you pleased with your progress so far? Yes. I’m keeping my head down and working hard. I understand the responsibility that comes with being part of an Imtiaz Ali film — especially in an ensemble of this calibre. I take it upon myself to do justice to the role and deliver, no excuses. I have a fire in me, and I’m motivated like never before.

Your co-star in Imtiaz Ali’s film is Naseeruddin Shah. Isn’t that daunting? Daunting and exciting. I’ve watched hours of Naseer Saab’s lectures on the craft of acting. I took notes as a young actor trying to understand the process — I still have those notes! I told him that the first time I met him. It’s truly an honour.

Are you prepping for the film already? Prep has begun to some degree. We’ve had some look tests. Shooting should start in August.

Also Read: Vedang Raina on turning 25, “I share my birthday with my mom, she says my birth was her best birthday gift”

The fan screening of Raanjhanaa (2013) was held at a multiplex in Mumbai on the occasion of its 12th anniversary by DIY Solutions and was attended by the film’s team – actors Dhanush and Mohd Zeeshan Ayyub, then-child-actor Naman Jain, director Aanand L Rai, writer Himanshu Sharma and lyricist Irshad Kamil. Sonam Kapoor couldn’t make it and the team kept a picture of her on the seat. The event began with the screening of the film after which stand-up comic Devansh Singh entertained the crowd. Laksh Maheshwari, then, in his trademark style narrated the film’s story and also hosted the talk. Dhanush opened up on several fascinating aspects of the film, which were not known to the world.

Towards the last leg of the event, Dhanush said, “Raanjhanaa is the story of two mad men (Aanand L Rai and Himanshu Sharma). They had made a film before – Tanu Weds Manu (2011). They believed in something that was close to impossible. At that time, they didn’t have the right kind of budget for hiring me as the lead actor. But this man’s (Aanand L Rai) passion was so strong that he just wanted me to play Kundan. He could have offered any actor this part and they would have happily come on board. After all, it’s such a great part. But he went against all odds. I don’t know I am supposed to say this and I don’t care! He invested his own money as well. He went all out (to cast me). He saw Kundan in me and he stayed true to his vision. Himanshu and Aanand somehow convinced me to play the role. The only reason I wasn’t convinced was due to the language barrier. Otherwise, I loved the part.”

He remarked, “They made a cult classic. It is not the story of Kundan and Zoya. It is the story of two mad men who believed in this.”

Dhanush continued, “By the grace of Mahadev, this film worked, and they survived (laughs). I was so scared. I was not scared during my first film. When I was written off, I was not scared. That’s how I am. But for the first time, I was scared. I felt responsible. So, I was praying so hard to God that ‘Somehow save this man’. June 21, the day Raanjhanaa was released, was my son’s birthday. He’s here among you, by the way!”

The crowd got excited and tried to locate him. Dhanush added, “I was not even there in the city (Chennai) with (my family when the film was released). I was in Mumbai, in the pooja room and was praying for this man. 12 years later, we are here with all of you. I thank you and all the Raanjhanaa fans all over the world. Har Har Mahadev!”

Also Read: Raanjhanaa fan screening: Dhanush jokes “Be it in North or South, all boys are the same”: reveals why he and writer Himanshu Sharma wanted to “KILL each other”: “I was ANGRY with him as I used to dub Tamil films in a day while dubbing for Raanjhanaa took 8-9 days”