RAID 2 makes a strong and enduring impact, driven by its gripping drama, culminating in a climactic sequence. Movie Review: RAID 2 makes a strong and enduring impact.

Star Cast: Ajay Devgn, Riteish Deshmukh

Director: Raj Kumar Gupta

Raid 2 Movie Review Synopsis: RAID 2 is the story of an honest officer and a corrupt-cum-shrewd politician. The year is 1989. Income Tax Officer Amay Patnaik (Ajay Devgn) raids the palace of Raja Kunwar (Govind Namdeo) in Jaipur and confiscates truckloads of black money. Raja’s manager offers a bribe and surprisingly, Amay accepts the offer. He gets caught and is transferred to Bhoj. The town is ruled by Manohar Dhankar aka Dada Bhai (Riteish Deshmukh). He’s also a cabinet minister and is seen as a philanthropist. Hence, the residents of Bhoj worship him and are ready to go to any lengths for him. Amay is surprised to see that he’s unable to find a single clue of money hoarding or corruption against Dada Bhai or any other resident. Realizing that something is fishy, Amay starts looking around and interacts with the local residents to find out more information. Soon, he comes across evidence that makes it clear that Dada Bhai is corrupt. Amay’s senior Anjani Kaul (Rajat Kapoor) approves the raid. Amay and his team of officers at the Income Tax Department, Bhoj commence the raid at Dada Bhai’s residence, office, and a five-star property. Amay is confident that he’ll find a lot of black money hidden in his properties. Sadly, he’s unable to find a single instance of unaccounted money. Amay soon realizes that Dada Bhai is possibly the shrewdest corrupt suspect that he has come across. Amay is compelled to change his strategies so that he can expose Dada Bhai. What happens next forms the rest of the film.

Raid 2 Movie Story Review: Ritesh Shah, Raj Kumar Gupta, Jaideep Yadav and Karan Vyas's story is one level up compared to the first part, RAID [2018]. Ritesh Shah, Raj Kumar Gupta, Jaideep Yadav and Karan Vyas's screenplay is captivating and is peppered with some entertaining and dramatic moments. In a few places, however, the writing could have been tighter. Ritesh Shah, Raj Kumar Gupta, Jaideep Yadav, and Karan Vyas's dialogues are witty and add to the humour quotient.

Raj Kumar Gupta's direction is simple. He also makes sure that the film has enough commercial value so that it can reach out to a large section of the audience. He also has a certain sensibility, which he doesn’t compromise on. The balance achieved is praiseworthy. He has chosen an intriguing plot. The challenges Amay faces this time are a lot more, as the antagonist is way more sharp-minded and a genius compared to the villain in the first part. The character of the mother (Supriya Pathak Kapur) and the depiction of Sushma Jankalyan Foundation stand out. The first half is decent and Raj Kumar Gupta reserves the best for the second half. This is where the film shows his true brilliance.

On the flipside, Dada Bhai’s rise in politics seems unconvincing and sudden. One can understand him winning the local election and maybe becoming a minister in the state government. Instead, he is catapulted as a central cabinet minister! The interest levels dip in the first half. Even the investigation of Amay Patnaik in the post-interval portions, though important to the film, doesn’t excite the audience much. The character of Punit Sahni (the Sardar batchmate of Amay; played by Sandeep Kapoor) fails to make a mark. The character of Raja Kunwar is introduced in a dramatic fashion, but hardly has anything to do.

RAID 2 begins on a fine note. Amay’s entry is predictable, but nevertheless, it works well. Dada Bhai’s entry is even more dramatic, and it’s a very unusual intro scene for a villain. The scene where Amay meets the Bhoj office colleagues is interesting. The interest then rises once Amay conducts the raid. The intermission point promises a smashing second half. The second half commences well with an item number. The film then falls and thankfully, gets better with the entry of Lallan Sudheer (Amit Sial). From here, the film remains steady. The climax is the best part of the enterprise and would be greeted with applause.

Raid 2 (Trailer): Ajay Devgn | Riteish Deshmukh | Vaani Kapoor

Raid 2 Movie Review Performances: Ajay Devgn is in his element yet again. He keeps his act restrained and that works for his character. However, in a few scenes, his dialogues are not audible. Riteish Deshmukh is terrific and does complete justice to the part of the antagonist. In several scenes, his eyes do all the talking, which is also quite commendable. After EK VILLAIN [2014], the actor proves yet again that he’s versatile and that filmmakers should see him in roles beyond comedy as well. Vaani Kapoor (Malini) hardly has anything to do. Amit Sial is the surprise package and contributes immensely to the laughter quotient. Performance-wise, he’s first-rate. Another scene stealer in the film is Shruti Pandey (Geeta ji). Supriya Pathak Kapur plays a crucial character and is lovely. Rajat Kapoor lends able support. Saurabh Shukla (Rameshwar Singh aka Tauji) is great. However, his character barely has much to do. The same goes for Govind Namdeo. Yashpal Sharma (Devinder Gehlot) does well, as always. However, one expects more from him because of the way his character was introduced. Pritisha Srivastava (Mini) is cute. Sanjeev Jhori (Ashok), Brijendra Kala (Vinay Bakaya) and Ayushi Neema (Anita) lend able support. Samayar Singh (Vikram Ghadiyal) and Ikram Khan (Kamal Chauhan; IAS officer) are okay. Tamannaah Bhatia is sizzling.

Raid 2 movie music and other technical aspects: 'Kamle' and 'Tumhe Dillagi' fail to impress and act as speed breakers. 'Nasha' is catchy and will be loved by the front benchers. 'Money Money', played during the end credits, is also enticing. Amit Trivedi's background score (additional background score by Amar Mohile) is one of the strong points of the film.

Sudhir Kumar Chaudhary's cinematography is satisfactory. Rita Ghosh's production design is in sync with the bygone era. Naveen Shetty, Mehak Shetty and Priyanka Castelino's costumes are realistic. The same goes for R P Yadav's action. Sandeep Francis's editing could have been sharper in the first half.

Raid 2 Movie Review Conclusion: On the whole, RAID 2 makes a strong and enduring impact, driven by its gripping drama, a formidable antagonist, and a second half that strikes an engaging balance between entertainment and intensity - culminating in a climactic sequence that stands out as the film’s crowning achievement. At the box office, the film is well-positioned to capitalize on a four-day weekend and the advantage of minimal competition in the immediate release calendar.

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Bollywood

Bollywood actress and Mandi MP Kangana Ranaut has moved into her official residence in New Delhi. The actress celebrated the occasion with a housewarming ceremony on Akshaya Tritiya in 2025. The century-old house has been restored, blending its historical charm with modern touches.

The residence features elegant decor, including wooden furniture, antique chandeliers, and Indian-inspired portraits. Kangana shared glimpses of the house and a video of the housewarming puja, where she was joined by her family. The house features a blend of vintage and modern decor, including wooden furniture, antique chandeliers, Indian-inspired portraits, and white marble flooring.

It is worth mentioning that she moved to the new residence a couple of weeks after she accused the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board of an inflated electricity bill of Rs 1 lakh. However, the electricity board denied the claim and stated, “Ms Kangana Ranaut has been consistently paying her monthly bills late. The electricity bills for January and February were paid on March 28, 2025, with a total consumption of 14,000 units. This clearly indicates that her average monthly consumption is very high, ranging from 5,000 to 9,000 units.”

The statement further read, “The electricity bill of Rs 90,384 issued on March 22, 2025, is for two months of electricity consumption and includes a previous payment of Rs 32,287. Therefore, the claim that the bill is for a single month is entirely misleading.”

Now, speaking of the work front, the 39-year-old actress was last seen in Emergency, which was released on January 17 this year. She keeps giving updates on her upcoming venture on her social media, including her next project with R Madhavan. Touted to be a psychological thriller, it will mark their reunion after a decade.

Also Read:Emergency in legal trouble! Kangana Ranaut accused of distorting and misusing facts by author Coomi Kapoor 

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Bollywood

Crocs has officially announced the onboarding of popular Indian actress Rashmika Mandanna as its brand ambassador for India. This collaboration marks a significant step for Crocs in strengthening its connection with the Indian market. The ambassadorship kicks off with the launch of the "Your Crocs. Your Story. Your World." campaign. Rashmika Mandanna will be the face of the Indian edition of this global campaign, embodying the essence of expressing personal stories through unique style.

“Crocs has always been a brand I’ve felt connected to — I love the fun colors, quirky silhouettes, and the unapologetic individuality they stand for.” said Rashmika Mandanna. “If you know me, you know I never shy away from expressing myself. Whether it’s my love for K-pop, Korean snacks, or sunflowers — I wear my heart on my sleeve. With Crocs and Jibbitz™, I get to bring that side of me to life and create something that’s completely my own. I’m so excited for my fans across India to experience the ‘Your Crocs. Your Story. Your World.’ campaign and discover how they can express their own unique style with Crocs.”

Yann Le Bozec, head of Crocs international marketing, shared, “Rashmika embodies everything Crocs stands for—authenticity, confidence, and personal expression. Her incredible reach across India, especially among young audiences, makes her the perfect ambassador to amplify our connection with the local consumer. With Rashmika leading our campaign, we’re excited to inspire a new generation to celebrate their individuality with Crocs.”

 

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Sharing his thoughts, Akshat Gupt, CCO and co-founder, Kulfi Collective, said: “Crocs has always been about self-expression. Through this campaign, we wanted to elevate Jibbitz as a storytelling device—one that visually captures how our experiences shape us. It’s about owning your world, your way, and Rashmika brings this to life beautifully.”

The campaign is set to be comprehensive, with a 360-degree approach. This strategic move by Crocs aims to leverage Rashmika Mandanna's widespread popularity and influence further to enhance the brand's presence and appeal in India.

Also Read: Rashmika Mandanna kicks off shooting for Maddock Films Thama in scenic Ooty

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A court in Mumbai has granted actor Malaika Arora a last chance to appear as a witness in the 2012 hotel brawl case involving actor Saif Ali Khan. The court warned that a non-bailable warrant will be issued against her if she fails to appear on the next hearing date, July 9.

The warning comes after Arora failed to comply with summons and skipped the hearing on April 29, despite a bailable warrant already being issued against her. Chief Judicial Magistrate K S Zanwar observed that Arora was “intentionally” avoiding legal proceedings, noting that while her lawyer was present in court, she chose not to appear.

The incident in question took place on February 22, 2012, at a five-star hotel in South Mumbai. Saif Ali Khan and two others—Shakeel Ladak and Bilal Amrohi—were arrested following a complaint by NRI businessman Iqbal Mir Sharma. The complainant alleged that Khan punched him, causing a nasal fracture, after he objected to the loud behavior of Khan and his companions.

According to the police, Khan was accompanied by his wife Kareena Kapoor, her sister Karisma Kapoor, Malaika Arora, Amrita Arora, and some friends when the altercation occurred. Sharma also claimed that Khan and his friends assaulted his father-in-law, Raman Patel.

Khan has denied the allegations, asserting that Sharma made provocative remarks and used abusive language towards the women in the group, which escalated the situation. Khan, Ladak, and Amrohi have been charge-sheeted under Section 325 of the Indian Penal Code, which pertains to causing grievous hurt.

The court initially issued a bailable warrant against Malaika Arora on February 15, which was re-issued on April 8 after she failed to appear. Her continued absence prompted the magistrate's latest warning.

The matter is now scheduled for further hearing on July 9.

Also Read: Realme Hip Hop India S2: Tension escalates as Remo D’Souza defends Rule Breakerz in a face-off with Malaika Arora

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ANOTHER SIMPLE FAVOR benefits from an intriguing script but it gets affected by the second half Movie Review: ANOTHER SIMPLE FAVOR benefits from an intriguing script

Star Cast: Blake Lively, Anna Kendrick

Director: Paul Feig

Another Simple Favor Movie Review Synopsis: ANOTHER SIMPLE FAVOR is the story of a famous author and influencer who gets into trouble yet again. A few years after the events of the first part, Stephanie Smothers (Anna Kendrick) is now an author and also dabbles in solving criminal cases. She has even written a book about her experience of getting involved in the disappearance and fake death of Emily Nelson (Blake Lively). Sadly, her book is not doing well, as intended. At a book-reading session, Emily arrives. She was in prison and was released all of a sudden. She also informs Stephanie that she's getting married to Dante Versano (Michele Morrone), an Italian bigwig. Dante asks for another favour - she asks Emily to be her maid of honour at her wedding in Capri. Stephanie is in two minds. This is when Emily threatens to sue her for writing about her in her novel without her consent. Hence, Stephanie reluctantly agrees to join her. At the wedding venue, Stephanie learns that Sean (Henry Golding), Emily's ex-husband, is also invited along with Emily's mother Margaret McLinden (Elizabeth Perkins) and her aunt Linda McLinden (Allison Janney). Dante's mother Portia (Elena Sofia Ricci) hates Emily. The situation is volatile and on top of it, a murder takes place on the island. What happens next forms the rest of the film.

Another Simple Favor Movie Story Review: Jessica Sharzer and Laeta Kalogridis's story is full of twists and turns. Jessica Sharzer and Laeta Kalogridis's screenplay is fast-paced and unpredictable. However, it gives the feeling of been-there-done-that. The dialogues, like the first part, are hilarious and savage.

Paul Feig's direction is effective. He tries his best to make sure that the USPs of the first part are repeated in the sequel. Hence, the electrifying chemistry between the two female leads and the sassy exchange of words between them are present in abundance. The tension that arises at the wedding also keeps the interest going. There's a major twist in the second half which will be unexpected.

However, the way the suspense unfolds could have been better. Moreover, the second half is when the film turns into the story of the character being wrongly framed for murder in a foreign country. This whole plot point and the way it happens are cliched and this takes away the charm of the film to a great extent. The first part worked big time as nothing was commonplace; that same factor, sadly, is not present here.

Another Simple Favor Movie Review Performances: Anna Kendrick yet again delivers an entertaining performance. This time, her character has evolved as life happened to her. Yet, she's still naive and this balance has been nicely achieved by Anna in her act. Blake Lively, as expected, is fiery yet again. She keeps her act mysterious and she does full justice to her part. Henry Golding dominates the show, despite limited screen time. Elizabeth Perkins, Allison Janney and Elena Sofia Ricci lend able support. Michele Morrone doesn’t get much scope. Alex Newell (Vicky) leaves a mark. Ian Ho (Nicky) is okay. It's shocking that the makers ignore him in the middle of the film, especially when he goes through a devastating life episode. Andrew Rannells (Darren), Bashir Salahuddin (Detective Summerville), Lorenzo de Moor (Matteo), Max Malatesta (Detective Antonio Lucchese) and Taylor Ortega (Agent Irene Walker) are fair.

Another Simple Favor movie music and other technical aspects: Theodore Shapiro's music is in sync with the film's theme. Indian moviegoers will be surprised as the Italian song 'L'Italiano' is played; a popular Bollywood song was lifted from this Toto Cutugno composition. John Schwartzman's cinematography is charming but the lensman makes sure not to focus too much on the beautiful locales. Renee Ehrlich Kalfus's costumes are striking and will be talked about. Martin Whist's production design is rich. Brent White's editing is slick.

Another Simple Favor Movie Review Conclusion: On the whole, ANOTHER SIMPLE FAVOR benefits from an intriguing script and a series of unexpected twists. However, the cliched developments in the second half hold it back. Nevertheless, its whodunit appeal and strong casting are likely to drive promising viewership.

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THUNDERBOLTS is powered by strong performances, sharp humour, tense moments which will create a craze Movie Review: THUNDERBOLTS revives the MCU glory and will create a craze among Marvel fans

Star Cast: Florence Pugh, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Wyatt Russell, Lewis Pullman

Director: Jake Schreier

Thunderbolts Movie Review Synopsis: THUNDERBOLTS is the story of a team of antiheroes. Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh) works for Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) and does her dirty work. She is depressed over the tragic death of her sister and feels quite lonely. Valentina is the director of the CIA and was formerly the head of the OXE Group. She is accused of several human rights violations while working on human trials. Valentina refutes all the allegations. Knowing that she can be in trouble, she asks Yelena to go to a secret vault in a hilly region of the USA and destroy the OXE servers so that she can't be convicted. Yelena reaches the vault and realizes that it’s a trap as she is confronted by John Walker (Wyatt Russell) and Ava (Hannah John-Kamen). They were also sent to the vault for the same reason. Soon, they learn that Valentina wants to finish them all as their existence can also put Valentina in trouble. While trying to find ways to escape, they are also bewildered as they meet Bob (Lewis Pullman). He's no mercenary and is wearing hospital clothes. Moreover, he has no memory of how he landed in the vault. However, he seems to have some extraordinary abilities. All four escape, with the intention of disappearing so that all-powerful Valentina can't trace them. As luck would have it, they are compelled to be a team thanks to Bucky (Sebastian Stan). The team expands as Yelena's father Alexei aka Red Guardian (David Harbour) also gets enlisted. What happens next forms the rest of the film.

Thunderbolts Movie Story Review: Eric Pearson's story is exhilarating and different from the recent films of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Eric Pearson and Joanna Calo's screenplay is captivating although the writing slips in some places. The dialogues add to the fun and madness.

Jake Schreier's direction is impressive. He executes the film in Marvel style but also gives the narrative a nice touch. The characters are well fleshed out and he also makes a comment on mental health. While doing so, he maintains a balance and ensures that the film doesn't get too depressing. Meanwhile, the humour is present in abundance. The intro scene is decent and the real fun begins once the antiheroes realize they are sent to the vault to get killed. The manner in which they escape will raise a lot of laughs. The chase sequence at the highway is also hilarious and it ends on a clapworthy note. Post-interval, the madness goes high by many notches. The pre-climax is nail biting. The final scene, however, will lead to hoots and claps as it sets the base for the future films of the MCU. In fact, the ending is very exciting and the craze that it'll generate will remind one of the good old days of MCU. And that's not all. The lengthy post-credit scene further contributes to the film's plusses.

On the flipside, the climax is not a typical one. It works but at the same time, it gets a bit lengthy and even dragging. There might be moments where you'll think where the film is heading. The sudden tonal shift also makes the experience slightly underwhelming.

Thunderbolts Movie Review Performances: Florence Pugh plays the part of the lead actress with panache. The way she got her accent right is admirable. Her struggle with loneliness seems authentic; the scene where she breaks down in the second half is memorable. Julia Louis-Dreyfus delivers a fine performance without going over the top. Wyatt Russell is entertaining but Hannah John-Kamen doesn't have much scope. Lewis Pullman has a crucial part and the way he gets into the skin of his character is seen to be believed. David Harbour is adorable while Sebastian Stan, as expected, is dependable. Wendell Pierce (Congressman Gary) and Geraldine Viswanathan (Mel) lend able support.

Thunderbolts movie music and other technical aspects: Son Lux's background score has the trademark Marvel stamp all over. Andrew Droz Palermo's cinematography does justice to the scale of the film. The action is not disturbing, except for a couple of shots, while the VFX is top-notch, especially in the scenes of The Void. Sanja Milkovic Hays's costumes are stylish yet realistic. Grace Yun's production design is grand. Angela Catanzaro and Harry Yoon's editing is satisfactory in most parts of the film. A few scenes could have been slicker.

Thunderbolts Movie Review Conclusion: On the whole, THUNDERBOLTS successfully revives the former glory of the MCU, powered by strong performances, sharp humour, tense moments and a commendable focus on mental health. The film concludes on an exhilarating note, which will create a craze in cinemas, especially among die-hard Marvel fans. As a result, it has the potential to surprise at the box office.

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Bollywood

Aamir Khan has decided to postpone the trailer launch of his upcoming film Sitaare Zameen Par following the recent tragic terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. The attack, which claimed the lives of several Indian tourists, has deeply affected the nation. On April 22, a brutal terror attack left 26 people dead and many others injured when gunmen opened fire on tourists in Pahalgam. This incident stands as one of the most heartbreaking attacks in Jammu and Kashmir.

The trailer, which was originally set to be released this week as part of the film's promotional campaign, has been postponed. In light of the tragic attack, Aamir Khan and his team made the decision to delay the launch as a gesture of respect for the victims and their families.

A source close to the film's development told Hindustan Times, “Aamir Khan and his team felt it would be inappropriate to proceed with the launch at this time. A new release date for the trailer will be announced later.”

The terror attack in Pahalgam occurred around 2:30 pm on Tuesday, leaving a devastating aftermath of grief and terror. Among the 26 victims were a young Navy officer, who had just been married days earlier, and an Intelligence Bureau official, who was tragically shot in front of his wife. Officials confirmed that the casualties also included two foreign nationals, one from the UAE and the other from Nepal, as well as two local residents.

Returning to the big screen, Aamir Khan is set to make his comeback with Sitaare Zameen Par. His last film, Laal Singh Chaddha, was released in 2022. Reports suggest that the trailer for Sitaare Zameen Par will be launched by Darsheel Safary. Announced in 2023, the film stars Aamir Khan and Genelia Deshmukh in prominent roles.

According to independent industry sources, “Darsheel Safary will be launching the trailer for Aamir Khan’s highly anticipated upcoming film Sitaare Zameen Par. After he delivered a flawless performance in Taare Zameen Par and became a star, it will be exciting to see Darsheel unveiling the trailer and being a part of the sequel to the 2007-released film. More details about the trailer launch are awaited.”

Also Read : EXCLUSIVE: PVR Inox Pictures to distribute Sitaare Zameen Par; Aamir Khan-starrer’s trailer expected to play in their cinemas from May 1

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Bollywood

Tamil actor Ajith Kumar was presented with the Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian award, by President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Monday, April 28. As revealed in January, the actor is one of the 19 recipients of the Padma Bhushan honoured by the Union government.

Earlier today, photos and videos of the actor and his family at the Chennai airport went viral on social media.

Ajith, one of the most prominent figures in Indian cinema, has acted in over 60 films during his career that spans more than 30 years. After making a brief appearance in the 1990 film En Veedu En Kanavar, he made his lead debut in 1993 with Amaravathi. Initially known for his roles in romance-driven films, Ajith later shifted to action-packed roles at the turn of the century, with movies like Amarkalam, Dheena, and Citizen.

Movies like Varalaaru, Billa, and Mankatha solidified Ajith's status as one of the top superstars in Tamil cinema. A recipient of the Kalaimamani award, he has also won three Tamil Nadu State Film Awards. Recently, the actor was seen in Vidaamuyarchi, directed by Magizh Thirumeni, and Good Bad Ugly, directed by Adhik Ravichandran.

In January, Ajith expressed his gratitude to the Indian government for the honour. In a statement, he said, “I am deeply humbled and honoured to receive the esteemed Padma Award from the President of India. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu and the Honourable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, for this prestigious honour. It is a privilege to be recognised at such a level, and I am truly grateful for this generous acknowledgement of my contributions to our nation. At the same time, I am mindful that this recognition is not just a personal accolade but a testament to the collective efforts and support of many.”

The star, who balances a successful career as a motorsport racer and team owner, is also a State-level shooting champion. Just last week, on April 20, his racing team, Ajith Kumar Racing, claimed second place at the renowned Spa Francorchamps circuit in Belgium.

At the same ceremony, actor-politician Nandamuri Balakrishna and veteran director Shekhar Kapur were also honoured with the Padma Bhushan. Other notable recipients from the cinema industry included Anant Nag and Shobana Chandrakumar, both awarded the Padma Bhushan, and Ricky Kej, who received the Padma Shri.

Renowned Malayalam author and screenwriter M. T. Vasudevan Nair, who passed away last year at the age of 91, has been posthumously awarded the Padma Vibhushan, along with late singer Pankaj Udhas.

The Padma awards, one of the country's highest civilian honours, are presented in three categories—Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri. These prestigious awards recognize achievements across a wide range of fields, including art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, and more.

Also Read : Ajith Kumar Racing Team clinches second place at Spa Francorchamps in Belgium

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Bollywood

Eminent Malayalam filmmaker and cinematographer Shaji N Karun passed away on Monday, April 28, 2025, at his residence in Thiruvananthapuram.  He was 73 and had been battling cancer for some time.

Born on January 1, 1952, in Kollam, Kerala, Shaji N Karun emerged as a pioneering figure in Indian cinema, known for his profound visual storytelling and commitment to cinematic realism.  After graduating from the Film and Television Institute of India in 1974, he began his career as a cinematographer, collaborating extensively with renowned director G. Aravindan.  His exceptional work behind the camera earned him the National Award for Best Cinematography for the film Thampu in 1979.

Karun's directorial debut, Piravi (1988), garnered international acclaim, winning the Caméra d'Or Special Mention at the Cannes Film Festival and multiple national awards.  His subsequent films, Swaham (1994) and Vanaprastham (1999), were also screened at Cannes, with Swaham competing for the Palme d'Or.   His 2009 film Kutty Srank won the National Award for Best Feature Film.

Beyond filmmaking, Karun played a pivotal role in shaping Kerala's film institutions.  He served as the inaugural chairman of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy and later chaired the Kerala State Film Development Corporation.   His contributions to cinema were recognized with several honours, including the Padma Shri in 2011 and France's Order of Arts and Letters.

Karun is survived by his wife, Anasuya Devaki Warrier, and sons, Appu and Anil.  His funeral will be held with official honours at Santhikavadom, Thycaud, on Tuesday, April 29.

The passing of Shaji N Karun marks the end of an era in Malayalam cinema, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike.

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Bollywood

In October 2023, fans were ecstatic when Pakistani actress Hania Aamir made a surprise appearance alongside Punjabi singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh at his London concert. Diljit dedicated his popular song Lover to Hania, making it a memorable experience for both the audience and the actress. Earlier this month, buzz grew around the possibility of a collaboration between the two, with many speculating it was for Sardaar Ji 3. However, new reports suggest that Hania may no longer be part of the film due to recent developments.

On April 22, a devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, South Kashmir, claimed the lives of 26 tourists, further straining the already tense relations between India and Pakistan. In the aftermath, Fawad Khan’s anticipated Bollywood return with Abir Gulaal reportedly saw its India release plans put on hold. Meanwhile, speculation is growing that Hania Aamir, who was set to debut in Indian cinema alongside Diljit Dosanjh and Neeru Bajwa in Sardaar Ji 3, might be dropped from the project. Although filming in the UK concluded last month, sources now suggest that the production team is considering reshooting Hania’s scenes with a different actress.

The speculation has triggered a flood of reactions across social media. Some users believe the decision is justified. One commented, “She got too much fame in India,” while another said, “This is what you call tit for tat ????????.” Many pointed out that a significant number of Pakistani artists—including actors, musicians, and writers—owe much of their fame to Indian audiences.

On the other hand, some expressed disappointment over the rumoured move. One user questioned the fairness of punishing innocent individuals, saying, “Those responsible have no religion, so why are innocent people being made to suffer?” Another urged for the film’s release to proceed as planned, stating, “It’s just a movie, and she’s an artist—they should go ahead with it.”

As of now, there has been no official statement from the film's producers or Hania Aamir regarding her exit from Sardaar Ji 3. Both fans and industry insiders are eagerly watching to see how the situation develops.

Also Read : Hania Aamir gives shoutout to Badshah amid boycott calls for Pakistani actors in India

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After more than 2 ½ years, Aamir Khan will be finally seen in cinemas this year with Sitaare Zameen Par. The film has been in the news constantly over its various speculations about its release date, trailer launch etc. Bollywood Hungama has now learned that Aamir already has a distributor on board - PVR Inox Pictures.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Aamir has a very long association with PVR Inox team. On the occasion of his 60th birthday on March 14, the exhibition arm of PVR Inox held a film festival across their properties in the country and showcased some of his finest films. A week before this celebration, Aamir Khan had an interesting conversation with Javed Akhtar. This event was held in PVR Juhu, Mumbai. And that’s not all. Sitaare Zameen Par is a spiritual sequel to Taare Zameen Par (2007), which also had a PVR connection. It was backed by the then PVR Pictures and co-produced by Sanjeev Kumar Bijli and Ajay Bijli along with Aamir Khan Productions. Hence, it’s a case of life coming full circle.”

The source continued, “If all goes well, Aamir Khan will launch the trailer of Sitaare Zameen Par digitally on Wednesday, April 30. One can expect to experience it on the big screen from May 1. PVR Inox plans to show the promo in all their cinemas across the country with new releases like Raid 2, Thunderbolts, The Bhootnii etc.”

As per recent reports, the trailer of Sitaare Zameen Par is 3 minutes and 29 seconds long and has been passed with a U/A certificate by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Reports also suggest that the film is expected to release in cinemas on June 20.

Sitaare Zameen Par is directed by R S Prasanna of Shubh Mangal Saavdhan (2017) fame and also stars Genelia Deshmukh. Speaking of PVR Inox Pictures, they have distributed several significant films in recent times like Bholaa (2023), Mission Raniganj (2023), Article 370 (2024), Bade Miyan Chote Miyan (2024), Stree 2 (2024), Singham Again (2024), Baby John (2024), Sky Force (2025) etc.

Also Read: Aamir Khan-starrer Sitaare Zameen Par trailer set to release next week, attached to Raid 2 screenings

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Actor Atul Kulkarni visited Pahalgam shortly after a terrorist attack took place there. In an interview with BBC News Hindi during his journey, he mentioned that the attack was intended as a warning from terrorists to discourage people from visiting Kashmir. However, he emphasized that Indians will continue to travel there, asserting “Kashmir is ours.” He also urged the public not to cancel their trips to the region.

Atul expressed his sorrow over the tragic incident on April 22 and reflected on how he could respond through meaningful action. He said, “What happened on the 22nd was a very tragic incident; this should not have happened. When I read about it, I thought that every time something like this happened, what would we do? We post on social media, we talk to friends, we write something, but then I thought, what can I actually do in real action? I read that 90% of the bookings here had been cancelled, even though it’s peak season. We need to support Kashmiriyat and the Kashmiri people.”

Speaking about Kashmir’s tourism, Atul stressed that it's our duty not to abandon the Valley now. He stated, “Itni badi tadaat mein log arahe the yaha 1-2 saalon mein. Achanak se agar rukh gaye hum log toh ek jo sambandh ban rahe hai mainland aur Kashmir ka woh rukna nahi chahiye...Jo atanwadiyon ne humein message diye ki, ‘Yaha mat aiyye.’ Toh nahi, hum toh ayenge, humara Kashmir hai, hum yaha ayenge, badi tadaat mein ayenge. I request people not to cancel their bookings. Come here, it's very safe here. If you have decided to travel somewhere, cancel that and come to Kashmir.”

 

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Earlier, Atul shared a series of photos on Instagram capturing his journey from Mumbai to Srinagar. He posted images showing empty seats on his flight, his boarding pass, and a heartfelt note from the flight crew. Alongside the pictures, he wrote, “Yeh flights bhar bhar ke jaa rahi thi..Hume inhe phirse bharna hai! Atankh ko Harana hai…Chaliye ji, Kashmir chalein.”

Atul also shared a photo from Pahalgam, along with more glimpses of Kashmir’s serene beauty—clear skies, flowing streams, and peaceful landscapes. He posted pictures of local Kashmiris as well, some holding placards that read “We condemn this attack,” and others waving the Indian national flag.

Atul Kulkarni later shared another post on Instagram featuring a Hindi poem, accompanied by powerful hashtags such as #ChaloKashmir, #Feet_in_Kashmir, #Kashmiriyat, #Love_Compassion, and #DefeatTerror, reinforcing his message of unity and resilience.

On April 22, a tragic terrorist attack took place at Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam, where 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen lost their lives, and several others were injured.

Also Read : EXCLUSIVE: Republic Day is to Atul Kulkarni what Eid is to Salman Khan! Actor reflects on having 4 consecutive January 26 releases, including Rang De Basanti and Page 3

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Mouni Roy is preparing for the release of her upcoming horror-comedy The Bhootnii, which also stars Sanjay Dutt, Sunny Singh, and others. As the release date approaches, the cast has been actively promoting the film. Mouni recently posted behind-the-scenes photos and videos on Instagram, sharing that she spent 45 nights performing “gravity-defying” dances while suspended in a harness for 10 to 11 hours each night. Although she initially found it challenging, she said things eventually became more manageable and fell into place.

Mouni Roy, who portrays a ghost named ‘Mohabbat’ in The Bhootnii, recently shared behind-the-scenes photos and videos from the set, showing her suspended mid-air. One clip captures her floating gracefully, while another image reveals an intense aerial stunt where she’s mid-fight with Sanjay Dutt’s character. In a playful caption she wrote, “For 45 nights, I danced with gravity, 10/11 hours at a time- me and my harness, reluctant partners at first. But somewhere between the bruises and the balance, we fell into rhythm. Now it holds me tighter than fate and lifts me better than caffeine ever could!!!!!"

 

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She also added with a wink, “P.S. we literally hung out by ourselves on tree tops all night, every night x. P.P.S. You must go to the cinemas to watch #TheBhootni on the 1st of May — or else I’ll haunt you forever.”

Mouni Roy’s post drew plenty of love and excitement from friends and fans alike. Her best friend, actress Disha Patani, hyped her up in the comments, writing “Can’t waitttt.” Tiger Shroff’s sister, Krishna Shroff, also chimed in with an enthusiastic “Woohoo!” Meanwhile, fans flooded the post with praise, with one calling her “the queen of darkness” and another eagerly commenting, “Can’t wait to see Mohabbat.”

Mouni Roy’s post quickly caught the attention of her close friends and fans. Her best friend and fellow actress Disha Patani dropped a comment saying, “Can’t waitttt,” with a trail of fire emojis, while Krishna Shroff, Tiger Shroff’s sister, cheered her on with a spirited “Woohoo!” Fans were just as thrilled—one declared, “The queen of darkness is back,” and another excitedly wrote, “Can’t wait to see Mohabbat.”

The Bhootnii, a horror-comedy written and directed by Sidhaant Sachdev, is all set to hit theatres on 1st May, 2025. Backed by producers Deepak Mukut and Sanjay Dutt, the film boasts a star-studded cast including Sanjay Dutt, Mouni Roy, Palak Tiwari, Sunny Singh, Aasif Khan, and popular YouTuber Beyounick.

Also Read : Mouni Roy responds to trolling over plastic surgery; says, “I do not pay attention to such remarks”

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John Abraham’s much-discussed film The Diplomat is finally headed for its digital premiere. According to recent reports, the film is slated to release on Netflix on May 9, 2025. Although an official announcement from the streaming giant or the production house is still awaited, the buzz around the film’s OTT debut has already caught the attention of fans.

The journey to digital release, however, was not without its hurdles. In a recent interview with Pinkvilla, John Abraham candidly spoke about the early challenges The Diplomat faced in securing an OTT platform. Sharing his experience, John revealed that several platforms initially rejected the film. “The loss of faith happens from the studio...when some OTT channels have refused The Diplomat because they didn’t find it great. They rejected the film; they threw it out," he said.

Despite the initial setbacks, the film eventually proved its critics wrong. John expressed his satisfaction, saying, “In the case of The Diplomat, we have proved the studio wrong, the OTTs wrong, and everyone wrong. The best thing about The Diplomat...is expectations of everyone were zero. So, from zero, when you don't go to a two-three, but you go straight to a 10, people are like, ‘Oh, wow, this is crazy’.”

This upcoming Netflix release adds to John Abraham’s impressive repertoire of films based on true stories, after titles like Madras Cafe and Batla House. The Diplomat is expected to offer a fresh, gripping narrative centred on the unsung heroes of Indian diplomacy, further diversifying the action star’s filmography. It features John Abraham in the role of Indian diplomat J.P. Singh and is inspired by true events. The story reportedly delves into critical diplomatic missions that shaped India's international relations during tense global moments. Also starring Sadia Khateeb in a pivotal role, the film promises an intense blend of politics, strategy, and emotion, rooted in real incidents.

As audiences eagerly await official confirmation, The Diplomat is shaping up to be a compelling watch for those who enjoy political dramas with real-world relevance.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Taran Adarsh on The Diplomat, “Why are you keeping an English title? Is there a shortage of Hindi titles?”

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Bollywood Hungama was the first to inform our esteemed readers that Sanjay Leela Bhansali has delayed Love & War from the March 2026 slot due to a delay in shooting. 2 days ago, we revealed that Sanjay Leela Bhansali is looking at releasing the Ranbir Kapoor-Alia Bhatt-Vicky Kaushal starrer on August 14, 2026. Incidentally, a week ago, Kartik Aaryan’s newly launched project Naagzilla was announced for a release on the same day. And that’s not all. At the beginning of the year, Maddock Films had made an announcement that Bhediya 2, starring Varun Dhawan, would arrive in the same week.

However, it seems like Bhediya 2 won’t be able to make it in the said week as scheduled. A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Bhediya 2 is getting delayed. The makers, that is, the team of Dinesh Vijan at Maddock Films, are already looking at other dates.”

The source continued, “Three big films coming on the same day would have caused a lot of issues in screen sharing. But with Bhediya 2 getting pushed, Love & War and Naagzilla can arrive on the same day. Both belong to diverse genres and are star-studded biggies. Hence, it will surely excite the audience and pull them to cinemas.”

The source also said, “Love & War’s release date is not yet locked. A final call will be taken soon. August 14 is definitely at the top of their wish list. As for Naagzilla, the makers feel the date is apt as their film deals with snakes. With Nag Panchami falling on August 17, they want to arrive on August 14.”

Bhediya 2 is not the only horror comedy that has been postponed. As per recent reports, the other film of Maddock Horror Comedy Cinematic Universe, Shakti Shalini, starring Kiara Advani, has also been pushed. It won’t be arriving on December 31, 2025.

Speaking of Naagzilla, it is directed by Mrighdeep Singh Lamba and produced by Mahaveer Jain Films and Dharma Productions.

Also Read: Varun Dhawan announces Bhediya 2 in a DRAMATIC fashion at Jio Studios event; horror comedy to release in cinemas in 2025

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Akshay Kumar, who is currently promoting his latest film Kesari: Chapter 2, addressed the heartbreaking Pahalgam terror attack during a recent event. His words reflected the anger and sorrow that many Indians are feeling after the tragedy that struck on April 22, 2025.

“Unfortunately aaj bhi humare sab ke dil mein woh gussa phir se jaga hain. Aap sab log achchi tarah se jaante he main kis cheez ki baat kar raha hoon. Aaj bhi hum un terrorists o ko ek hi baat kehna chahenge. Jo maine iss film mein kahi he, ‘Kya tum samjhte ho ke ek Hindustani ki himmat ko kuch goliyan daba degi? Galat fehmi mein ho tum (Do you think a few bullets can crush the courage of an Indian? You are mistaken)’,” Akshay said, seamlessly blending his emotions with a line from Kesari: Chapter 2.

The Pahalgam terror attack targeted a group of civilians, most of them non-Islamic tourists, who were traveling in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. The assailants ambushed a bus, opening fire on unarmed travellers. At least eight people lost their lives while over twenty were injured. Security forces have intensified combing operations in the area since the attack. Officials have termed it a deliberate attempt to instil fear ahead of the peak tourist season in Kashmir.

Akshay Kumar had earlier taken to social media to express his grief and anger. “Horrified to know of the terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam. Sheer evil to kill innocent people like this. Prayers for their families," he wrote on X, capturing the sentiments of a grieving nation.

Released on April 18, Kesari: Chapter 2 is inspired by true events and follows the story of Indian statesman C Sankaran Nair as he takes a historic stand against the British Crown after the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Directed by Anurag Singh, the film features Akshay Kumar, Ananya Panday, and R Madhavan in pivotal roles. Critics have praised the film for its stirring portrayal of courage and justice, with Akshay’s powerful performance standing out.

The timing of Kesari: Chapter 2 feels even more poignant now, as the nation once again grapples with the harsh reality of terrorism and the need to stand united in the face of adversity.

Also Read: Tahira Kashyap says, “Kesari Chapter 2 is a must watch” in heartfelt appreciation post, Akshay Kumar, Karan Johar, and team REACT!

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The month of May will begin with a bang with exciting releases in different languages. In this article, Bollywood Hungama will focus on the cut list of two of the releases – the Hollywood superhero entertainer Thunderbolts and the Telugu action entertainer, HIT: The Third Case.

The Central Board of Film Certificate (CBFC) thankfully hasn't asked for any visual cuts in Thunderbolts. Hence, all the action scenes remain unscathed. However, they asked the studio to mute five abusive words. These five words are ‘a**’, ‘a**hole’, ‘d**ks’, ‘b***h’ and ‘prick’. The last word is not considered as an objectionable cuss term and hence, the muting of ‘prick’ is sure to raise eyebrows.

After these cuts were made, the studio was handed over the censor certificate on April 23. The length of Thunderbolts as mentioned on the censor certificate is 127 minutes, that is, 2 hours and 7 minutes. The film was passed with a U/A 13+ rating.

HIT: The Third Case, like Thunderbolts, also releases on May 1. With this film, the Examining Committee asked for both audio and visual cuts. The makers were asked to limit the use of 'f**k' and mute 'c*****a'.

The rest of the cuts were related to the violent scenes. The makers were asked to suitably modify the visuals of butchering of the neck; the visuals were reduced to a flash. The scenes of girl torture were also reduced to a flash. The pool of blood was covered with CG.

A gruesome scene in the film involves the neck being cut and close-up shots of amputated hands, legs and fingers. In this case, the CBFC reduced the gory visuals to flash, blood spilling effect was reduced by 50% and cut body parts were darkened. Moreover, in two scenes, the CBFC told the makers to modify the red colour of the blood to a dark shade to reduce impact; a first for any film probably. Lastly, the visuals of a child were modified and reduced. A disclaimer was added that the makers have used a CGI baby.

Once these changes were made, HIT: The Third Case was passed with an ‘A’ certificate on April 21. The length of the film, as mentioned on the censor certificate, is 157.06 minutes. In other words, the Nani-Srinidhi Shetty starrer is 2 hours 37 minutes and 6 minutes long.

Also Read: Thunderbolts advance booking now live in India!

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In September 2024, Bollywood Hungama was the first one to break the news that Sidharth Malhotra had bagged an out-and-out commercial entertainer. Some 10 days ago, we informed readers that it'll be directed by Raaj Shaandilyaa of Dream Girl (2019) fame. Now, we are back with another interesting update.

A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “With the lead actor and director locked, the makers of the film are now looking to sign the female lead. They are in discussion with Sreeleela and Ananya Panday.”

The film is backed by Mahaveer Jain’s Mahaveer Jain Films (MJF). Mrighdeep Singh Lamba, who is a partner in MJF, will also be producing the film. The trade source continued, “The makers are in advanced talks with both of them. They hope to reach a conclusion soon after which they’ll take a call. It is expected to happen soon.”

An industry insider commented, “Both actresses are stunning and also are fine performers. Ananya has proven her worth time and again; she was recently seen in Kesari Chapter 2 wherein she left a huge mark. Sreeleela, meanwhile, too has been doing great work and she got a Pan-India boost with the super-success of the song ‘Kissik’ in Pushpa 2 – The Rule (2024). She has also bagged a plum role in Kartik Aaryan’s Diwali release, which’ll add to her fan following in the Hindi-speaking markets. Hence, it’ll be interesting to see which actress bags the part.”

Meanwhile, Sidharth Malhotra is also gearing up for Vvan. Yesterday, there were reports that he’ll be seen opposite Tamannaah Bhatia in this mythological thriller. It’ll be directed by Deepak Mishra and produced by Ekta Kapoor. Reportedly, the actor is completing the last leg of Dinesh Vijan-produced Param Sundari at present. It also stars Janhvi Kapoor and will be released in cinemas on July 25. Finally, it was announced some time back that Sidharth has also signed Race 4.

Also Read: Sreeleela receives a special gesture from Chiranjeevi; read to know more

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In a notable collaboration, legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese has come on board as executive producer for Homebound, the upcoming feature from National Award-winning director Neeraj Ghaywan. The film, starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, is set to have its world premiere in the Un Certain Regard section at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, which runs from May 14 to 25.

Homebound marks Ghaywan’s return to the big screen and to Cannes, nearly a decade after his acclaimed debut Masaan premiered at the festival and received two awards. Over the years, Masaan has continued to find resonance with audiences worldwide, heightening expectations for Ghaywan’s latest.

Speaking about his involvement, Martin Scorsese said, “I have seen Neeraj’s first film Masaan in 2015 and I loved it, so when Mélita Toscan du Plantier sent me the project of his second film, I was curious. I loved the story, the culture and was willing to help. Neeraj has made a beautifully crafted film that’s a significant contribution to Indian cinema. I am glad the movie is an official selection at Un Certain Regard in Cannes this year.”

Producer Karan Johar also shared his thoughts on the collaboration, stating, "Homebound is an extraordinary confluence of talent, vision, and storytelling at its finest. Having Martin Scorsese, a true legend of cinema, lend his wisdom and support to Neeraj's remarkable vision elevates our film to a rare artistic height. Neeraj Ghaywan continues to be one of the most authentic and insightful voices in Indian cinema today, and we are immensely proud to support him on this journey. With an incredibly gifted cast and the prestigious stage of Cannes, we eagerly look forward to sharing Homebound's powerful story with audiences around the world."

 

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Reflecting on the experience, Neeraj Ghaywan added, "To have an icon like Mr. Scorsese lend his name to Homebound is an honour beyond words. I’m deeply grateful to our co-producer Melita Toscan, who introduced us to him. Mr. Scorsese mentored us through the screenplay and multiple rounds of editing. He listened with care, understood the cultural context, and offered thoughtful, incisive notes each time. His kindness and commitment are extraordinary, and to have him nurture our film has been both a rare privilege and a profoundly humbling experience."

Homebound has also secured French distribution through Ad Vitam, the company behind acclaimed international titles such as A Fantastic Woman and Son of Saul, which previously won the Grand Prix at Cannes. The film is produced by Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, and Somen Mishra, with Marijke deSouza and Melita Toscan du Plantier serving as co-producers. Continuing Ghaywan’s exploration of contemporary human relationships and social themes, Homebound stands poised to be one of the notable Indian entries on the global stage this year.

Also Read: Cannes 2025: Homebound by Neeraj Ghaywan makes it to ‘Un Certain Regard’ section

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One of the most awaited films of Indian Cinema, Ramayana, will be released next year, on Diwali 2026. The excitement for it has been sky high due to its solid casting and association of Nitesh Tiwari, of Dangal (2016) and Chhichhore (2019) fame, as director. Last year, the makers released a teaser poster in November and made it clear that while the first part will be out next year, the second part will be released on Diwali 2027. And if sources are to be believed, a new announcement about the film will be out as early as next week.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “The first World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (aka WAVES Summit) will be held from May 1-4, 2025 and the organizers are clear that they want it to be one of the biggest talking points of the year. Accordingly, they have invited some of the biggest names from different film industries in India. To add to the excitement, the team of Ramayana is looking to share an update during this star-studded event. It will be a win-win situation for both. The team of the film will get a grand platform to showcase their product and grab a lot of eyeballs. WAVES, too, would benefit with the extensive coverage.”

The source, however, added, “The makers are looking at a poster or video of Ramayana. However, things are still being planned and a decision will be taken in a few days, provided things fall in place. Last year, the makers were planning to announce the film on Ram Navami 2024 but the plan was later deferred. Hence, things are still not confirmed yet. However, the WAVES Summit can prove to be a great opportunity.”

Ramayana stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman and KGF star Yash as Ravana.

Also Read: Sai Pallavi SLAMS report on turning “vegetarian” for Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana, warns of legal action: “Cooked-up crappy story in the name of news”

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The Delhi High Court has directed renowned music composer AR Rahman and production company Madras Talkies to deposit Rs 2 crores with the court registry in a copyright infringement case. The ruling, delivered on 25 April, also directed them to pay Rs. 2 lakh costs to Dagar. The case centres on the song ‘Veera Raja Veera’ from the 2023 film Ponniyin Selvan 2, which has been accused of copying an earlier composition.

The lawsuit was filed by Indian classical vocalist and Padma Shri awardee Faiyaz Wasifuddin Dagar in 2023. Dagar alleged that ‘Veera Raja Veera’ infringed on Shiva Stuti, a composition by his father, Nasir Faiyazuddin Dagar, and uncle, Zahiruddin Dagar, known collectively as the Junior Dagar Brothers. He sought a permanent injunction to prevent the song’s use, along with damages and recognition of moral rights.

Justice Prathiba M Singh, presiding over the case, observed that Shiva Stuti did not merely inspire ‘Veera Raja Veera’ but was “identical” to it, despite minor changes. Dagar argued that the song’s taal, beat, and musical structure mirrored Shiva Stuti, even though the lyrics differed. In contrast, AR Rahman contended that Shiva Stuti is a traditional composition in the public domain within the Dhrupad genre of Hindustani classical music. He further claimed that ‘Veera Raja Veera’ was an original work, incorporating Western musical elements with 227 distinct layers.

The court’s interim order requires Rahman and Madras Talkies to deposit Rs 2 crores while the case is ongoing. Additionally, after initially failing to do so, the defendants were instructed to update the song credits on online platforms to acknowledge the Junior Dagar Brothers.

Also Read: Imtiaz Ali reveals how Kashmiri girls mistook AR Rahman for an electrician: “These girls came to sing chorus and asked who the music director was” 

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In October 2024, Bollywood Hungama had releveled that acclaimed filmmaker Siddharth Anand — known for Pathaan, War, and Fighter — under his banner Marflix Pictures, had joined forces with producer Mahaveer Jain — of Uunchai and NaagZilla fame — through Mahaveer Jain Films, to announce their next ambitious collaboration that would feature Vikrant Massey as Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. Well, the said international production has now been titled White.

[caption id="attachment_1973584" align="aligncenter" width="620"] EXCLUSIVE: Siddharth Anand - Mahaveer Jain production starring Vikrant Massey as Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar titled White[/caption]

An edge-of-the-seat global thriller, White will feature the versatile Vikrant Massey in the role of renowned spiritual leader and humanitarian, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. Production preparations are currently underway in Colombia, with filming scheduled to begin this July. The film brings together a distinguished international crew to depict the powerful and inspiring story of how Colombia’s brutal 52-year-long civil war was resolved — a largely untold chapter of modern peace-building.

Speculation around Massey’s involvement began when the actor was seen sporting significantly longer hair and undergoing a physical transformation, hinting at his preparation for a character of deep spiritual presence.

With critically acclaimed performances in films like 12th Fail and The Sabarmati Report, Vikrant Massey continues to impress with his ability to undergo remarkable transformations. White will be directed by noted ad filmmaker Montoo Bassi and co-produced by Peacecraft Pictures, alongside the powerhouse duo of Siddharth Anand and Mahaveer Jain.

Siddharth Anand’s White seeks to spotlight how ancient Indian wisdom played a pivotal role in resolving one of history’s longest-running conflicts. With a stellar team of creators known for their impactful storytelling, White is poised to become a landmark international production from India — bringing an important, little-known story of peace and humanity to global audiences.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Vikrant Massey in advanced talks to play Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in an international thriller; to be produced by Siddharth Anand, Mahaveer Jain

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Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan has long captivated audiences not only with his films but also with the personal stories that offer glimpses into his life beyond the screen. One such emotional moment unfolded during his appearance on Amitabh Bachchan’s widely watched quiz show, Kaun Banega Crorepati. There, Shah Rukh shared a heartfelt reason for never having visited Kashmir — a childhood promise he made to his late father.

Shah Rukh revealed that his paternal grandmother was from Kashmir, which gave his bond with the region a deeper, personal significance. Reflecting on an emotional conversation with his father, he recalled, “My father’s mother was Kashmiri. To unhone mujhe zindagi mein bola tha teen jagah zaroor dekhna life mein, ‘main rahun ya naa rahun. Ek Istanbul zaroor dekhna, ek Italy main Rome zaroor dekhna aur ek Kashmir hai zaroor dekhna. Lekin baaki do mere bina bhi dekh lena par Kashmir mere bina mat dekhna.’”

This touching memory remained with Shah Rukh long after his father’s death. He shared, “My father passed away very early. I’ve been all over the world lekin mai Kashmir kabhi nahi gaya. Bohot saare mauke bhi mile, doston ne bohot bulaya, ghar wale chutti pe bhi gaye, par main Kashmir kabhi nahi gaya. Kyunki mere father ne kaha tha ki Kashmir mere bina mat dekhna, Kashmir main dikhaaunga.” (“He passed away very early. I’ve been all over the world, but I never went to Kashmir. I had many opportunities — friends invited me; family went on vacations — but I never went. Because my father had told me not to see Kashmir without him, that he would show it to me himself.”)

This heartfelt revelation resonated deeply with audiences, as many connected with the profound respect and love Shah Rukh has for his father’s words. His lifelong commitment to a childhood promise highlighted a more personal and grounded side of the actor.

However, attentive fans were quick to recall that Shah Rukh had visited Kashmir during the filming of Yash Chopra’s romantic drama Jab Tak Hai Jaan (2012). Picturesque locations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Ladakh, and Pangong Lake were showcased in the movie. One fan pointed out online, “Dunno what was the date of this KBC episode but he did visit Kashmir with Yash Chopra when he was doing JTHJ shooting there back in 2011-12.”

Still, many defended Shah Rukh, clarifying that although he didn’t visit Kashmir with his own father, he did go there with his mentor and “father figure” Yash Chopra. The emotional tone of his statement seemed to reflect a more personal and meaningful visit, rather than a professional or work-related one.

Also Read : Pavail Gulatie calls himself a “graduate from the Shah Rukh Khan School of chivalry”

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The recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, has once again stirred tensions and renewed demands to boycott Pakistani artists and films. At the center of the controversy is Abir Gulaal, the highly anticipated film marking Pakistani actor Fawad Khan’s return to Indian cinema, now facing growing backlash amid the charged political climate.

Abir Gulaal, co-starring Vaani Kapoor, was originally slated for release on May 9. However, industry insiders now indicate that the release may be postponed, as theatre owners and distributors express growing concerns over the film’s reception in light of the current tensions. What was intended to be a celebratory comeback for Fawad Khan in the Hindi film industry is now overshadowed by the unrest and political sensitivity following the recent terror attack, potentially causing unforeseen delays for the project.

Following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, public sentiment against Pakistan has intensified, casting a shadow over the release of Abir Gulaal, which stars Pakistani actor Fawad Khan. According to a report by Hindustan Times, many theatre owners are currently reluctant to screen the film due to fears of backlash. Although the production team is in discussions with distributors and exhibitors, a May 9 release appears increasingly unlikely.

The publication quoted a source saying, “The production house is trying to negotiate with them, but it looks unlikely that Abir Gulaal will release on May 9 for now. The film’s release may be pushed back till things are sorted. But when that will happen is uncertain, as theatres do not want to take a film with a Pakistani actor now.”

Meanwhile, Ashoke Pandit, President of the Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association, has voiced strong opposition to the release of Abir Gulaal. Speaking to Hindustan Times, he condemned the timing of the film’s release in light of the recent terror attack, stating, “This incident is an act of war against the nation… We, as a federation, have requested with folded hands to not work with Pakistanis. They come up with bulls***t reasons like artist, community, but ultimately, the nation must come first.” His remarks reflect the heightened emotions and deepening divide within the industry over cross-border collaborations.

Echoing similar sentiments, BN Tiwari, President of the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), also took a firm stand against the release of Abir Gulaal. He stated, “We will not let Abir Gulaal release in India. Action will be taken against the makers (if they release the film).” His statement further underscores the growing resistance within the Indian film industry toward projects involving Pakistani artists in the wake of heightened tensions.

Abir Gulaal, directed by Aarti S Bagdi, was originally scheduled for release on May 9. However, with major industry federations like FWICE and the Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association voicing strong opposition—and rising outrage across social media—the film’s theatrical release in India now hangs in uncertainty. What was meant to be a significant cinematic moment may be indefinitely delayed amid the escalating political and public backlash.

Also Read : Dia Mirza welcomes Fawad Khan’s return to Bollywood; says, “Art should never be mixed with hate”

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Over three decades have passed since filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt and his daughter, actor Pooja Bhatt, appeared on a now-infamous magazine cover where they were photographed sharing a kiss. The image caused a huge controversy and still lingers in discussions surrounding the Bhatt family. Recently, Mahesh’s son, Rahul Bhatt, was asked to share his thoughts on the matter, and his response was as unruffled as it was straightforward.

In an interview with Hindi Rush, Rahul Bhatt recalled being only 14 years old when the controversial photograph was released. He brushed off the backlash, saying, “Kuch farq nahi padta. It’s like water off a duck’s back. Hum jaante hain sach kya hai, aur humne bachpan se sab dekha hai.” For him, the criticism is simply noise that doesn’t warrant any attention or energy.

Rahul reflected on how growing up in a film family helps build resilience. He shared, “Film parivaar ke bachche ya toh bohot messed up hote hain, ya bohot mazboot. Log sochte hain humein chinta hoti hai, lekin aisa nahi hai.” He implied that the Bhatt children, at least, had learned to handle public scrutiny without allowing it to shape their identities.

Despite the ongoing controversy, Pooja and Mahesh Bhatt enjoyed a successful streak of collaborations in the '90s, with films like Daddy, Dil Hai Ki Manta Nahin, Sadak, Sir, and Zakhm making a significant impact on Indian cinema. While the criticism has lingered, it remains nothing more than a footnote in the broader narrative of a father-daughter duo whose artistic chemistry far outweighed the noise surrounding them.

Also Read : Alia Bhatt having a baby girl is a proud moment for Mahesh Bhatt, reveals Rahul Bhatt

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Last week, Bollywood Hungama reported that some of the biggest celebrities will be attending the first ever World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (aka WAVES Summit) which will be held in Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai between May 1-4, 2025. The organizers of the much-awaited summit have put up the schedule and it makes it clear the first edition of WAVES will be one of the biggest events of the year. In this article, Bollywood Hungama will inform readers on some of the most exciting panels of the summit.

May 1

The summit will begin with a bang with the panel 'Legends & Legacies: The Stories That Shaped India’s Soul'. It'll be moderated by Akshay Kumar and will feature Amitabh Bachchan, Hema Malini, Mithun Chakraborty, Rajinikanth, Mohanlal and Chiranjeevi! This will arguably be the most star-studded panel discussion ever.

Karan Johar will then moderate the 'The New Mainstream: Breaking Borders, Building Legends' session. It will be attended by S S Rajamouli, A R Rahman, Anil Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal.

This will be followed by the 'Multiple Industries: Best Practices' session. Moderated by Anupama Chopra, it will be graced by the Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya (2024) actors, Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon.

Superstar Shah Rukh Khan will then come in front of the WAVES attendees. The fireside chat is named 'The Journey: From Outsider to Ruler' and will be moderated by Karan Johar.

Pushpa 2-star Allu Arjun will make his presence felt with the 'India's Creative Ascent: M&E Leaders on Becoming a Global Powerhouse' panel. He'll be joined by German footballer Ariane Hingst, Italian model Binaca Balti, Israeli actress Rona Lee Shimon and US singer Mary Jorie Millben. Barun Das will be the moderator of this session.

Lastly, Mayank Shekhar will moderate the 'Remembering Manoj Kumar: Ace Filmmaker, True Nationalist'. It'll be graced by Manoj Kumar's son Kunal Goswami, Madhur Bhandarkar, ace journalist Bharti S Pradhan and author-lyricist Raajiv Shrivaastav.

May 2

The second day will begin with Aamir Khan's starry presence. He'll attend the 'Studios of the Future: Putting India on World Studio Map' session. It'll be moderated by Ritesh Sidhwani. Aamir will be joined by producer Dinesh Vijan, Namit Malhotra of Prime Focus, PVR's Ajay Bijli and American film producer Charles Roven.

In the afternoon, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Kareena Kapoor will come together along with Nana Patekar and Vijay Devarakonda for 'Cinema: The Soft Power' session, moderated by Karan Johar.

Aamir Khan will be back in the evening for 'Indian Cinema, Oriental Look' session. It'll be moderated by NDTV director Sanjay Pugalia and will also be attended by directors Peter Ho Sun Chun, Stanley Tong and Prasad Shetty.

In between, Aamir will also hold a masterclass called 'Redefining Indian Cinema'.

Another Bachchan family member - Abhishek Bachchan - will also grace the summit. He'll attend the 'Pan-Indian Cinema: Myth or Momentum?' session along with Nagarjuna, Amitabh Bachchan, Karthi and Khushbu. Naman Ramachandran will be the moderator.

Shraddha Kapoor, who has one of the highest followers for an Indian on Instagram, will speak in the 'Trends and Virality: How Gen Z Consumes Content'. She'll be joined by Adam Mosseri, Head, Instagram, Meta.

For 'The Changing Face of Indian Cinema', Baradwaj Rangan will be the moderator while Riteish Deshmukh, Ravi Mohan and Sonali Kulkarni will be the panellists.

Lastly, Bhushan Kumar of T-Series will talk along with Lyor Cohen, CEO, YouTube Music during the 'How Indian Music is Exporting Culture' session.

May 3

Ted Sarandos, CEO, Netflix, will have a fireside chat during 'Streaming the New India: Culture, Connectivity & Creative Capital' session.

During the 'OTT Revolution: How AI, Personalization & Interactive Content Are Changing Streaming Landscape' session, Neeraj Roy, Managing Director, Hungama Digital Media Entertainment Pvt Ltd, will speak along with Vishal Dhupar, MD, South Asia, NVIDIA, Bivek Sharma, Chief AI Officer, PwC and Rohit Jain, President, Lionsgate Play. Gaurav Gandhi of Amazon Prime Video will be the moderator.

Farhan Akhtar will hold a masterclass on 'The Craft of Direction'.

May 4

Richie Mehta of Delhi Crime and Poacher fame will conduct a masterclass on films.

Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan condemns Pahalgam terror attack: “Words fail to express the sadness and anger”

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Following the critical and commercial success of OMG 2, acclaimed actor Pankaj Tripathi and writer-director Amit Rai are reuniting to create a deeply emotional and socially relevant human drama. The upcoming untitled film has just begun shooting, with a 35-day schedule aimed at capturing the essence, culture, and untold stories of the state like never before.

Joining Pankaj Tripathi in the lead are esteemed actors Pawan Malhotra, Geeta Agarwal, Rajesh Kumar, along with several talented artists from the local Bhojpuri film industry. This blend of national and regional talent promises to bring a unique and authentic flavor to the film.

Speaking about his return to work with director Amit Rai, Pankaj Tripathi shared, “OMG 2 was a very special film for me—not just because it marked my first solo more than 180-crore box office success, but because it connected with people on a human and emotional level. Working with Amit again feels like a natural progression. His storytelling has depth, honesty, and a sense of purpose that I deeply relate to. This story is rooted in the soil of Bihar—my home, my identity. As an actor, there’s nothing more fulfilling than being part of a story that is both entertaining and socially meaningful.”

Director Amit Rai, known for his sensitive and thought-provoking storytelling, also expressed his excitement about the project, “Collaborating with Pankaj Tripathi again is like returning to a creative space where truth and performance meet seamlessly. This film is a heartfelt exploration of human relationships, resilience, and the social fabric that binds us. The support from Bihar Film Nigam has been invaluable, and we are committed to not only telling a powerful story but also celebrating local talent, landscapes, and life. This is more than just a film—it’s a reflection of lives lived and lessons learned.”

With its compelling narrative, rooted setting, and powerhouse cast, this collaboration between Pankaj Tripathi and Amit Rai is poised to touch hearts and spark conversations once again.

Also Read : World Theatre Day: Richa Chadha, Ali Fazal, Pankaj Tripathi, and other Bollywood actors recall their first stage performance

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On the 40th Anniversary of the landmark Shah Bano vs Ahmed Khan case (Supreme Court 1985), Yami Gautam stars in a compelling drama inspired by the life of Shah Bano. This case remains a significant moment in the struggle for Muslim women’s rights in India and their challenge to established personal laws.

Starring Yami Gautam Dhar and Emraan Hashmi, the film is a gripping drama set against the backdrop of a case that reshaped India's constitutional history and deeply impacted the dynamics of a democratic society—highlighting the role of the state in issues of religion, individual rights, and women's rights. Emraan Hashmi plays Yami's husband, a character inspired by Shah Bano's husband, Ahmed Khan. Audiences can look forward to powerful performances from the talented cast of this project.

A classic David Vs Goliath story, it saw a resilient Shah Bano with no financial resources and support from society take on the establishment of organised religion and fight the misogynistic practices carried out under the garb of organised religion.

The genesis of a subsequent legal framework that back in the 1970s, did not even merit a conversation, this story is a gripping tale of how a woman with nothing except courage and truth took on her husband who was himself a well to do lawyer, the mighty Waqf board, and went all the way to the Supreme Court and defeated all of them single handedly. The case laid the ground for innumerous women to make legitimate claims which they were not allowed before.

The case made global headlines and has also been listed as one of the Top 10 events that shaped Indian democracy and judiciary. It is still taught in law schools across the country and the citation has helped women of all faiths, religions or caste and different socio-economic strata to get their rightful due when a marriage goes bust owing to misogynistic laws.

This story also led to the genesis of what is now heading to a One Nation One Law under the proposed Uniform Civil Code.

The film is expected to have a massive theatrical release in cinemas across India and globally and is expected to release sometime in October/November 2025. The film has been shot in multiple locations across Lucknow and Uttar Pradesh and its first schedule recently got wrapped.

Yami Gautam Dhar is riding high on the success of Article 370 and this is her next theatrical release. Emraan Hashmi next release is the war film Ground Zero and was seen recently in Tiger Zinda Hai amongst others.

This is the next in the courtroom trilogy announced by director Suparn S Verma who is the creator of the multi-award winning critical and commercial success Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hain starring Manoj Bajpayee.

Also Read : Emraan Hashmi, Yami Gautam headline film on Shah Bano verdict 40 years later

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Aamir Khan has frequently shared his ambition to bring the Indian epic, Mahabharat, to the big screen. In a recent interview, it appears that the actor-producer is getting closer to making this dream a reality. He revealed that he plans to begin working on the project this year.

In a recent conversation with The Hollywood Reporter India, Aamir shared his intention to begin working on the Mahabharat this year. The actor also mentioned that he would be producing the film under his own production banner. When asked about the project, Aamir expressed, “I’m hoping to start work on it this year.”

Aamir also mentioned that the film will be divided into multiple parts, similar to the Lord of the Rings franchise. However, he emphasized that the writing process alone would take several years. “It will take a while because the writing process will take a few years,” he clarified.

Aamir also revealed that he hasn't yet decided whether he will star in the film. The casting decisions will be made based on who is best suited for each role. “We’ll see who we should cast based on who’s appropriate for which part,” he stated.

Aamir expressed, “I don’t think you can tell Mahabharat in one film, so it will be multiple films. I am looking at a large scale. It’s too early to say, but we may need multiple directors,” acknowledging the immense scale of the Mahabharat project.

Aamir Khan was last seen in Laal Singh Chaddha, a remake of the Hollywood classic Forrest Gump, which hit theatres in 2022. After the film didn't perform well at the box office, Aamir took a short break before starting work on his upcoming project, Sitaare Zameen Par.

Sitaare Zameen Par is a thematic sequel to Aamir Khan's 2007 hit film Taare Zameen Par. Directed by RS Prasanna, the film features Genelia Deshmukh alongside Aamir Khan. Produced by Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao, it is set to release in theatres on June 20.

Also Read : Ranveer Singh, Shahid Kapoor, Aamir Khan, John Abraham, Saif Ali Khan, and now Vijay Deverakonda: Actors who set the trend with buzz cut looks

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In a startling incident, Mumbai police received a phone call on Tuesday alleging a plot to assassinate actor Tiger Shroff. According to reports, the caller informed the authorities that a security agency owner had hired him to kill the actor. He further claimed he had been provided with a revolver and Rs.2 lakh in cash to execute the plan.

Following the phone call, Mumbai police intensified their investigation. Authorities promptly registered an FIR, and the accused was subsequently arrested in Kapurthala, Punjab.

As more information is awaited, Lokmat Times has revealed that the accused is a 35-year-old man named Manish Kumar Sujinder Singh. According to the police, Singh was driven by anger and a desire for revenge after facing salary deductions due to frequent absences from work. In an effort to frame his superiors and tarnish the company's reputation, he allegedly fabricated the entire story.

Meanwhile, Khar Police have booked Manish Kumar Singh under IPC Sections 353(2), 212, and 217 for disseminating false information and attempting to provoke public unrest.

On the professional front, Tiger Shroff is busy filming his much-anticipated movie, Baaghi 4. Earlier this month, to mark his 35th birthday, the actor unveiled a new poster of the film, featuring his character Ronnie in a more intense and rugged look.

Tiger Shroff wrote, “The franchise that gave me an identity and allowed me to express my eagerness to prove myself as an action hero… is now the franchise that is redefining who I am. He’s definitely not the same this time, but I hope you all accept him the way you did eight years ago. #gratitude, #SajidNadiadwala’s, and #Baaghi4.”

Baaghi 4, directed by A. Harsha, features a star-studded cast including Sanjay Dutt, Harnaaz Sandhu, and Sonam Bajwa alongside Tiger Shroff in lead roles. The film is slated for release on September 5, 2025.

Also Read : Director Ahmed Khan’s son Azaan speaks on MMA prep and training with Tiger Shroff: “He helped me build the foundation”

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Kartik Aaryan surprised fans by unveiling a never-before-seen look as an Ichadhaari Naag from his upcoming film Naagzilla. The makers revealed a motion poster titled of the film creating quite a buzz. They also announced that the film is set to hit theatres on August 14, 2026. Kartik will be portraying the character Preyamvadeshwar Pyare Chand, a mystical shape-shifting serpent.

The official account of Dharma Productions took to twitter to unveil the motion poster and wrote, “Insanon wali picharein toh bahut dekh leen, ab dekho naagon wali pichchar! #Naagzilla - Naag lok ka pehla kaand… Funnn phailaane aa raha hai - Preyamvadeshwar Pyare Chand. Naag Panchami par…aapke nazdeeki Sssssinemas mein - 14 August 2026 ko.”

Insanon wali picharein toh bahut dekh leen, ab dekho naagon wali pichchar!#Naagzilla - Naag lok ka pehla kaand… Funnn phailaane aa raha hai - Preyamvadeshwar Pyare Chand Naag Panchami par ???? aapke nazdeeki Sssssinemas mein - 14 August 2026 ko pic.twitter.com/zn0VH3PH5b

— Dharma Productions (@DharmaMovies) April 22, 2025

Backed by Karan Johar, Mahaveer Jain, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, Mrighdeep Singh Lamba, and Sujit Jain, the film promises a unique cinematic experience, combining elements of fantasy, folklore, and pure entertainment.

According to an earlier report by Bollywood Hungama, Akshay Kumar was initially approached for the lead role, but he turned it down due to discomfort with the film’s snake-related theme. A source revealed, “Akshay was the first choice for director Mrighdeep Singh Lamba’s project and had been in talks for a while. However, he eventually opted out as he wasn’t convinced by the snake-vs-human storyline and didn’t want to revisit the genre after Jaani Dushman.”

Producers Mahaveer Jain and Karan Johar reportedly held several meetings with Akshay, but after he exited, the team decided to reboot the project with Kartik Aaryan. “Kartik was instantly drawn to the man-versus-snake concept and quickly came on board. He sees it as a potential hit, especially after the success of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and 3, given the current audience interest in supernatural themes,” the source added.

Kartik Aaryan is preparing for his next major venture with renowned director Anurag Basu, where he’ll be starring opposite South sensation Sreeleela, who’s set to make her Bollywood debut. Although the film’s title hasn’t been revealed yet, it’s rumoured to be a romantic musical. Fans got a sneak peek on February 15, when the first look was unveiled—showing Kartik as a heartbroken singer and Sreeleela as his enchanting love interest.

Also Read : Kartik Aaryan recalls filming the podium scene in Chandu Champion; says, “Those were genuine tears of victory”

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Saif Ali Khan recently shared that he has purchased a luxurious residence at The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, located at The Pearl in Doha, Qatar. Speaking at a press event organized by Alfardan Group, Saif expressed what attracted him to the property, highlighting Qatar's safety, scenic beauty, and its convenient proximity to India. He described his experience there as feeling “safe” and like “a home away from home,” making it an ideal retreat for his family.

Saif Ali Khan spoke about his positive experience living in the property, explaining what makes it feel special. He shared, “Think of a holiday home or a second home. There are a few things I think of. One is that it’s not very far away and it’s easily accessible. And then the other thing is, the most important thing is that it’s very safe and it feels very good to be there. And the concept of an island within an island is also very luxurious and beautiful, and it’s just a really lovely place to live. And the feeling you get when you’re there is the important thing, and the views, and the food, and the kind of lifestyle, and the pace of living, and these are a few of the things that led to my decision.”

The actor referred to the property as his “home away from home.” He explained, “I had gone there to do some work, and I was shooting for something, and I stayed at the property, and I thought it was amazing, and there was something about the mixture of privacy and luxury that I really liked. And again, it was things like food and the way the menu was curated and various things like this. I mean, literally in a nutshell, it felt like home away from home, so that made it very easy. The main thing really is that it's peaceful and secluded if that's the kind of thing you are looking for.” He also mentioned that he’s looking forward to bringing his family, especially his children, Taimur Ali Khan and Jehangir Ali Khan, to the new property.

In addition to his new property in Doha, Saif Ali Khan owns several other residences. He currently lives with his family, including wife-actor Kareena Kapoor and sons Taimur and Jeh, in their Bandra apartment. Saif also has his ancestral Pataudi Palace. Furthermore, he owns properties in London and Gstaad.

Saif Ali Khan purchased this property just months after a frightening incident in which he was attacked. On January 16, an accused named Shehzad allegedly attempted a robbery by breaking into Saif’s Bandra residence. During the break-in, Saif was stabbed and suffered severe injuries, including damage to his thoracic spine and other parts of his body. He was immediately rushed to Lilavati Hospital, where he received treatment for five days before being discharged on January 21.

On the work front, Saif Ali Khan will next be seen in Netflix’s highly anticipated film Jewel Thief: The Heist Begins. The film also stars Jaideep Ahlawat, Kunal Kapoor, and Nikita Dutta in key roles. Directed by Kookie Gulati and Robbie Grewal, Jewel Thief follows the story of a charismatic thief (Saif) and his partner (Jaideep) as they scheme to steal the ultra-rare African Red Sun diamond, all while being pursued by a determined detective (Kunal). Jewel Thief: The Heist Begins will start streaming on Netflix from April 25.

Also Read : Alaya F gets nostalgic as old promo video from Jawaani Jaaneman surfaces, remembers her debut with Saif Ali Khan

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Yash Raj Films (YRF) is creatively collaborating with a master of the romance genre, Mohit Suri, for a love story that has been titled Saiyaara. This is the first film produced by the company’s CEO Akshaye Widhani.

The much-awaited romantic film, Saiyaara, which introduces two new faces in the Hindi film industry - Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda - is set to release on July 18, 2025, in theatres worldwide.

Presented by Aditya Chopra, directed by Mohit Suri and produced by Akshaye Widhani, Saiyaara is being billed as an intense love story that brings YRF and Mohit Suri, both known for their huge generation-defining successes in the romantic genre, together for the first time!

As per reports, much of the film was shot in 2024 and in February this year, Mohit Suri shot a music festival sequence with 1,000 background artists at Vrundavan Studios in Malad, Mumbai. Reportedly, Ahaan Panday was seen performing on stage and the crowd got mesmerized by his performance. In the middle of his performance, Ahaan also jumps from the stage to further woo the audience. Aneet Padda, who was seen in the OTT show Big Girls Don’t Cry (2024), was also a part of this sequence.

The announcement of Saiyaara is sure to enhance the excitement of this film for various reasons. The title pays homage to a memorable song from YRF’s 2012 blockbuster film Ek Tha Tiger. Also, with action films reaching a saturation point, there’s a demand to see love stories and Saiyaara comes at the right time. Moreover, July 18 is also an empty slot which hasn’t been taken over by any Hindi film or major Hollywood biggie. All eyes are now on Saiyaara’s trailers and songs and if they click with the audience, this film has the potential to emerge as a profitable venture and also carve a special place in the hearts of young romantics.

Also Read: Mohit Suri shoots music festival sequence with 1,000 artistes for Ahaan Panday’s debut film: Report

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It was a notable weekend for India at WrestleMania 41, WWE’s biggest annual event, now streaming on Netflix. Rana Daggubati, known for the Netflix series Rana Naidu and a longtime WWE fan, became the first Indian celebrity to be invited to WrestleMania and attend from the front row. He also received a special mention during the live stream watched by WWE fans worldwide. Season 2 of Netflix India’s action drama Rana Naidu is coming soon.

The WWE fandom was front and center on the global stage as well, with the Netflix India and WWE watch party for fans in Mumbai featuring live during the Wrestlemania broadcast on Netflix, this weekend.

 

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Held in the high rollers city of Las Vegas, WrestleMania 41 wasn’t just about the in-ring action, it was a celebration of fandom, community, and global connection. Rana’s presence at the event marked a proud moment for Indian representation at one of the most-watched and beloved sports entertainment events worldwide.

With WWE now streaming on Netflix, and Rana Naidu already a fan-favorite Netflix series with its highly anticipated Season 2 on the horizon, this crossover moment highlights Netflix’s commitment to bringing powerhouse entertainment to fans in India.

Speaking from Las Vegas, Rana Daggubati said, “Being at WrestleMania 41 is a surreal experience—WWE has been a part of all our childhoods. Now, to witness it live and to be able to represent India on a global stage, especially with both WWE and Rana Naidu streaming on Netflix, feels like a full-circle moment.”

Also Read : Siddhant Chaturvedi, Rana Daggubati attend Netflix dinner with WWE Champions Dominik Mysterio and Liv Morgan

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Aamir Khan, who has a strong fan base in China, recently visited the country to attend the Macau Comedy Festival. During an interaction with one of his Chinese fan clubs, he shared key details about his upcoming film Sitaare Zameen Par. Aamir revealed that the film is a remake of the Spanish movie Champions, and in it, he portrays a “very rude” basketball coach.

During the interaction, Aamir Khan shared, “Sitaare Zameen Par is almost ready. It’s the sequel to Taare Zameen Par. Thematically, it is going ten steps ahead. It is about people who are differently abled. It is about love, friendship and life. Taare Zameen Par made you cry but this film will make you laugh. It’s a comedy but the theme is the same.”

Revealing more about his role in Sitaare Zameen Par, Aamir Khan said, “My character Nikumbh in Taare Zameen Par was a very sensitive person. In this film my character’s name is Gulshan but his personality is exactly opposite to Nikumbh. He is very rude, politically incorrect and he insults everybody. He fights with his wife, mother. He is a basketball coach and he beats up his senior coach. He is a person with a lot of internal problems.”

Aamir Khan further explained, “The story is about how he transforms. The ten individuals—some of whom have Down syndrome, autism, and other different abilities—teach him what it truly means to be a good human being. The original is a Spanish film, and we’ve created an Indian adaptation of it.”

Aamir Khan’s Sitaare Zameen Par is directed by RS Prasanna and features Genelia Deshmukh in a leading role alongside him.

Also Read : Rajkummar Rao in talks to play Ujjwal Nikam in upcoming biopic after Aamir Khan’s exit

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Yash Raj Films’ Mardaani is the biggest solo female-led franchise in Hindi cinema that has garnered love and acclaim for over 10 years now. The blockbuster franchise has received unanimous love from people and has attained a cult status amongst cine-lovers. Also, the biggest and only female cop franchise of India, Mardaani is now in its third instalment and Mardaani 3 will see Rani Mukerji reprise the role of a daredevil cop, Shivani Shivaji Roy, who selflessly fights for justice.

Today, YRF (Yash Raj Films) announced the release date of Mardaani 3 to be Friday, February 27, 2026, marking the auspicious Holi festival as its release window. Holi, which falls on March 4, symbolises the triumph of good over bad. The makers are pegging this film to be a bloody, violent clash between Shivani’s goodness vs sinister evil forces with its choice of release date.

Moreover, the esteemed studio also released the explosive first look of the highly talented actress from this much-awaited film. Rani Mukerji had revealed that the edge-of-the-seat thriller is ‘dark, deadly and brutal’ and it immediately piqued curiosity amongst netizens, the fans of the star and the franchise.

Mardaani 3 is directed by Abhiraj Minawala and as per reports, the shooting of the film began sometime back. A few days back, it was reported that after shooting at the Golden Tobacco factory in Vile Parle, Mumbai, the makers are now filming portions in Yash Raj Studios, Andheri. The current leg is critical as Rani Mukerji will be shooting action scenes crucial to the narrative.

Mardaani tackled the grim realities of human trafficking, while Mardaani 2 explored the chilling mind of a psychotic serial rapist who dared to challenge the system. Mardaani 3 is expected to delve into another dark, socially relevant theme, continuing the franchise’s legacy of gripping, issue-based storytelling. With the film hitting cinemas in less than a year, anticipation is running high. Interestingly, February 27 has been a lucky date for YRF before—Dum Laga Ke Haisha, the beloved sleeper hit, was released on the same day in 2015. Given the franchise’s popularity, Rani Mukerji’s powerful presence, and the thematic intensity promised, Mardaani 3 is expected to deliver both critical acclaim and box-office success.

Also Read: Mardaani 3 shooting to start in 2025: Rani Mukerji describes film as “Dark, deadly, and brutal”

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