Bollywood
Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Love & War gears up for 15 to 20-day song schedule in May
Sanjay Leela Bhansali, one of Indian cinema’s most visionary directors, is gearing up for his biggest and most-awaited project yet. Titled Love & War, the film brings together, for the first time, three of Bollywood’s biggest stars, Ranbir Kapoor, Vicky Kaushal, and Alia Bhatt, in lead roles. Positioned as a grand historical drama, the film is already generating massive excitement among audiences.
The shoot is currently in full swing, with Bhansali reportedly leaving no stone unturned to craft a visually stunning cinematic spectacle. Amid this, sources reveal that Love & War is now gearing up for a major song shoot, expected to begin in the coming days. The source revealed, "Love & War is about to start a song shoot schedule in early May. As the grandeur of SLB's is always magnificent, it will be a 15 to 20-day schedule."
This update has further heightened anticipation around the film. Known for Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s grand vision, especially in songs, expectations are soaring for another visual spectacle, with his signature larger-than-life cinematic storytelling.
With Sanjay Leela Bhansali at the helm, a director known for his meticulous storytelling, opulent frames, and emotionally charged narratives, expectations are monumental. The three most bankable and versatile performers in the industry, paired with Bhansali’s directorial brilliance, further fuel speculation about the scale and theme of the film.
With Sanjay Leela Bhansali leading the project, expectations are sky-high, given his signature style of detailed storytelling, grand visuals, and intense emotions. Bringing together stars like Ranbir Kapoor, Vicky Kaushal, and Alia Bhatt only amplifies the excitement, making Love & War one of the most anticipated films in Indian cinema.
Also Read: Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love & War set for January 21, 2027 release worldwide
read moreDhurandhar set to release in Japan on July 10, 2026
Following its remarkable and record-shattering global box office journey, Jio Studios and B62 Studios’, Aditya Dhar directorial Dhurandhar (Part One) is set to make its theatrical debut in Japan on 10th July 2026, marking yet another milestone in the film’s expanding international footprint.
The Japan release builds on an extraordinary run across key global markets, with the film delivering record-breaking performances and unlocking newer territories for Indian cinema. The first instalment of the spy action entertainer garnered Rs. 1328+ crores worldwide when it released globally on 5th December 2005.
Dhurandhar (Part 1) recorded a landmark performance internationally, emerging as the No. 1 Hindi film of all time in North America, while also becoming the highest-grossing Indian film ever in Canada and Australia, and ranking among the top-performing Indian films in the UK.
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With its unique blend of scale, storytelling, and genre appeal, Dhurandhar is well-positioned to connect with Japanese audiences. The film combines high-octane action, drama, and layered storytelling, delivering a cinematic experience that is both immersive and universally engaging.
One of the most celebrated films in recent Hindi cinema, Dhurandhar has been widely appreciated by audiences and has broken multiple box office records worldwide. The film features a stellar ensemble cast led by Ranveer Singh, alongside Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna, R. Madhavan, Arjun Rampal and Sara Arjun.
This high-octane action thriller is written, directed, and produced by Aditya Dhar, and produced by Jyoti Deshpande and Lokesh Dhar. Presented by Jio Studios and produced by B62 Studios, Dhurandhar is now set to create a powerful cinematic impact as it releases in theatres across Japan on 10th July 2026.
Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: PVR INOX’s Sanjeev Kumar Bijli opens up on Project Hail Mary’s IMAX tussle with Dhurandhar The Revenge: “These are the challenges that we face in our business”; shares his views on Disney’s Infinity Vision: “We would love to partner…”
read moreYash starrer Toxic release postponed again, new date to be announced soon
KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations today announced that the release of Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups has been rescheduled. The film, which was earlier set to release on June 4, 2026, will now arrive in theatres worldwide on a new date to be announced soon.
The decision follows the film’s presentation at CinemaCon, where it received a strong and encouraging response from global distributors and industry stakeholders. The reception opened up opportunities for a significantly wider international release, prompting the team to revisit and realign their release strategy.
With the film now complete, the makers are currently focused on locking global distribution and forging key international partnerships to ensure Toxic reaches audiences across markets at the scale it demands. The film is written by Yash and Geetu Mohandas, and directed by Geetu Mohandas.
Yash, in a statement, said, “There are films we make, and then there are films that remind us why we fell in love with cinema. Toxic has been one such journey. Presenting our film at CinemaCon and witnessing the overwhelming global response reaffirmed what we have always believed—that this film deserves to reach its fullest potential worldwide. Toxic is complete, and we are currently aligning global distribution and partnerships. In light of this, we have decided to recalibrate our release timeline. While we will not be releasing on June 4 as announced earlier, we will be releasing at a later, globally aligned date. Toxic will come to theatres across the world soon."
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He further added, "At a time when Indian cinema is finding its voice and stepping onto the global stage with such promise, each of us has a responsibility to raise the bar. As an actor and producer, I see this moment as an opportunity to do my part—for the Indian film industry and for all of us—by taking the time to ensure our film reaches the world with the impact it is meant to have. Through every step and every change, your support has stayed with me, and I carry it with deep gratitude. Some stories ask for patience. Some journeys demand it. We promise to give you a film to enjoy and celebrate—a film that will stand as a proud moment for Indian cinema.”
Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups stars Yash alongside Nayanthara, Kiara Advani, Huma Qureshi, Rukmini Vasanth, and Tara Sutaria.
Shot in Kannada and English, the film will also release in dubbed versions in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam.
Produced by KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations, the film will release in theatres worldwide on a new date to be announced soon.
Also Read: Yash breaks silence on “obscene” scenes criticism, backs Geetu Mohandas’ vision for Toxic: “A gangster film with a female gaze is refreshing”
read moreVarun Dhawan’s Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai will now release on June 5, 2026
Fans of the classic David Dhawan brand of cinema will have to wait just a little longer. The much-anticipated romantic comedy, Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, has officially shifted its theatrical release. Originally slated for May 22, 2026, the film is now set to premiere on June 5, 2026.
A Strategic Shift The rescheduling comes amidst a significant shake-up in the Indian film calendar. The move follows the recent announcement from the makers of the Yash-starrer Toxic, who confirmed that their high-octane actioner would no longer be releasing on its June 4 slot. This vacancy in the first week of June provided a prime window for Tips Films to position their family entertainer for a solo-led weekend.
Produced by Ramesh Taurani under the Tips Films banner (in association with Maximilian Films UK), the movie marks another collaboration between the father-son duo of director David Dhawan and star Varun Dhawan.
The newly released poster showcases a vibrant, chaotic energy synonymous with David Dhawan’s style. It features Varun Dhawan in a quirky pose atop twin baby strollers, flanked by leading ladies Pooja Hegde and Mrunal Thakur. The poster also gives a glimpse of a stellar supporting cast, including Maniesh Paul, Mouni Roy, and veteran actors like Jimmy Sheirgill and Rakesh Bedi, hinting at a comedy of errors. What to Expect Positioned as a "vibrant rom-com," Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai is expected to be a high-energy entertainer featuring remixed 90s hits and the signature slapstick humor that defined the David Dhawan era.
With the massive success of their previous collaborations like Main Tera Hero and Coolie No. 1, trade analysts expect this June release to be a major draw for family audiences looking for light-hearted summer entertainment.
Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai arrives in cinemas worldwide on June 5, 2026.
Also Read: Pati Patni Aur Woh Do, Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, Cocktail 2: Bollywood brings back the ‘one hero, many heroines’ formula
read moreShah Rukh Khan-Saif Ali Khan’s Kartavya locks May 15 Netflix premiere: Report
Saif Ali Khan is set to return to Netflix with the upcoming crime drama Kartavya. According to a report by Variety India, the film is expected to premiere on May 15, 2026. However, the makers have not officially confirmed or denied the reported release date so far.
Kartavya was officially announced as part of Netflix India’s 2026 content slate and has already generated attention for its cast and creative team. The project stars Saif Ali Khan in the lead, supported by a notable ensemble featuring Rasika Dugal, Sanjay Mishra and Zakir Hussain. One of the interesting additions to the film is veteran journalist Saurabh Dwivedi, who is set to make his acting debut with the project. His inclusion has added curiosity around the film since the slate announcement.
The movie is produced by Red Chillies Entertainment, owned by Shah Rukh Khan, and directed by Pulkit. Pulkit had earlier received praise for directing Bhakshak. The project also marks a significant professional reunion between Shah Rukh Khan and Saif Ali Khan after 23 years.
For Saif Ali Khan, Kartavya also marks a return to the cop genre on Netflix nearly seven years after the strong success of Sacred Games, where he played Inspector Sartaj Singh.
Apart from Kartavya, Saif has another Netflix project lined up this year in Hum Hindustani. Directed by Rahul Dholakia, the film is based on India’s first general election and features Saif as Sukumar Sen.
On the theatrical front, the actor is also expected to be seen in Haiwaan, directed by Priyadarshan and co-starring Akshay Kumar. The film is expected to be released in the second half of the year.
With Kartavya reportedly nearing its premiere, audiences will be watching closely for an official confirmation from Netflix and the makers.
Also Read: Saif Ali Khan on Netflix’s Kartavya, “It’s a lovely piece by director Pulkit”; actor reunites with Shah Rukh Khan after 23 years in a different way
read moreEXCLUSIVE: Raja Shivaji to release with different runtimes in Hindi and Marathi; Hindi version shorter by 8 minutes
Raja Shivaji, which is set to release on May 1, will be available in two versions – Marathi and Hindi. Usually, films released in more than one version have the same runtime, with language being the only difference. But Raja Shivaji will be an exception. Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learned that the Hindi version will be shorter than the Marathi version.
The Hindi version of Raja Shivaji was passed by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) with a U/A 16+ certificate on April 28. The length of the film, as mentioned on the certificate, is 187.05 minutes. In other words, Raja Shivaji is 3 hours, 7 minutes and 5 seconds long. No changes were asked by the CBFC as all modifications were already done for the Marathi version. The only suggestion was that the names of chapters, dates, events and locations be mentioned in Hindi.
On April 25, Bollywood Hungama was the first to inform readers that Raja Shivaji's Marathi version received the censor certificate on April 24. As per the certificate, its runtime is 195.05 minutes, which is 3 hours 15 minutes and 5 seconds. In other words, the Hindi version is shorter by exactly 8 minutes.
An industry insider commented, “Usually, two versions of a film have the exact same duration. However, Riteish Deshmukh has tried a novel experiment and kept the narrative crisp for the Hindi audience. Meanwhile, for the Marathi audience, which would probably be more attracted to the film due to the local flavour, the actor-director has gone for a longer version.”
Interestingly, this was also noticed in the Marathi and Hindi trailers of Raja Shivaji. While the former is 3 minutes and 5 seconds long, the latter has a duration of 2 minutes and 59 seconds.
Raja Shivaji stars Riteish Deshmukh in the role of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and he's joined by Genelia Deshmukh, Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Vidya Balan, Fardeen Khan, Bhagyashree, Sachin Khedekar, Amole Gupte, Jitendra Joshi and others. It is produced by Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia Deshmukh’s Mumbai Film Company and Jyoti Deshpande’s Jio Studios.
Also Read: Raja Shivaji sells 40,000 tickets in advance booking; Pune goes on overdrive as 7:00 am shows open due to huge demand
read moreRaja Shivaji sells 40,000 tickets in advance booking; Pune goes on overdrive as 7:00 am shows open due to huge demand
Two days ago, Bollywood Hungama reported that the ticket sales of The Devil Wears Prada 2 were very encouraging. Raja Shivaji releases on the same day as the Hollywood comedy drama and this film, too, seems all set for a flying start, especially in its Marathi version.
According to data accessed by Bollywood Hungama, Raja Shivaji had sold more than 40,000 tickets as of 8:00 am on April 29. By 4:30 pm on April 28, PVR Inox sold 9,800 tickets for the historical entertainer’s Marathi version. Cinepolis sold 3,000 tickets, MovieMax saw sales of 2,400, while Miraj Cinemas sold more than 4,100 tickets.
The Marathi version has far more appeal due to its local flavour, ensemble cast, and the correct release period. Raja Shivaji releases on May 1, which is Maharashtra Day. Hence, the film will enjoy a three-day weekend in the state. Several films have been made on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Marathi, but Raja Shivaji seems like the grandest of them all. This has further encouraged audiences to buy tickets.
A look at the ticketing websites indicates that several shows in Maharashtra are fast-filling. Mumbai is performing very well, but the surprise is Pune, where Raja Shivaji is on an overdrive. Several theatres in this city will play the film from 7:00 am, looking at the demand. Some Mumbai cinemas have also followed suit, although they are yet to catch up like their Pune counterparts.
In short, at present, Pune is the highest performing centre in India and is even giving a tough competition to Mumbai, which is a rare phenomenon. City Pride, which has 7 cinemas in Pune and E-Square, which has 3 properties in Pune and 1 in Solapur, will emerge among the top chains in terms of ticket sales for Raja Shivaji. Both chains are expected to sell more than 20,000 tickets by April 30. The advance booking in Maharashtra towns like Nashik, Latur, Solapur, Kolhapur, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar etc. is also encouraging.
With such ticket sales, a healthy first-day collection is guaranteed. However, as aforementioned, a bulk of the advance sales have come for the Marathi version. Bookings for the Hindi version have yet to begin in a full-fledged manner across the country and it remains to be seen if it receives the same response as the Marathi version.
Raja Shivaji stars Riteish Deshmukh in the role of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and he's joined by Genelia Deshmukh, Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Vidya Balan, Fardeen Khan, Bhagyashree, Sachin Khedekar, Amole Gupte, Jitendra Joshi and others. It is produced by Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia Deshmukh’s Mumbai Film Company and Jyoti Deshpande’s Jio Studios.
Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Raja Shivaji is 3 hours 15 minutes long; joins elite club of Animal, Pushpa 2, Dhurandhar, Border 2; CBFC replaces child violence visual in Riteish Deshmukh-starrer
read moreSCOOP: YRF to invest Rs 150 crores in micro-dramas; Akshaye Widhani to lead new vertical for Aditya Chopra
Yash Raj Films (YRF) plans to enter the fast-growing micro-drama space, alongside the development of a proprietary direct-to-consumer app aimed at bringing its content directly to audiences. This seems to be a revolutionary move by the production house, which has willingly contributed to strengthen the theatrical medium of Indian Cinema over the last 50 years.
Reliable sources confirm that Yash Raj Films is investing Rs 150 crores in creation of micro-dramas over the next few years. The amount will be put into creation of content, as also building a direct to consumer application to host the content.
The new vertical will be led by YRF CEO Akshaye Widhani, who produced Saiyaara, which emerged as the most profitable film in the studio’s history. Widhani has also brought on board Saugata Mukherjee, formerly of SonyLIV, to lead creative development across streaming shows, films and microdramas, and develop the new slate.
Micro-drama storytelling has seen significant success in markets such as China, where the segment is estimated to be valued at RMB 35–40 billion ($5–6 billion USD), with projections of RMB 50–70 billion ($7–10 billion USD) over the next two years. The format is driven by mobile-first consumption, short-duration episodes, and scalable micropayment models, with a user base of 400–600 million viewers.
YRF’s planned entry into this space reflects its continued focus on innovation and building a direct, long-term relationship with audiences through a future-ready, consumer-first entertainment ecosystem. With Aditya Chopra venturing into the micro-drama space, we await other industry giants too to explore what is touted to be the most profitable content model in the world at this point of time.
This move comes right after the Bollywood Hungama newsbreak, where the industry was shocked with the studio’s decision to venture into the horror space, as every stalwart knows that this is a genre that Aditya Chopra has never been keen on. But this is the birth of a vision for the studio with a brand new set of people heading departments, and micro-drama just adds another feature to their cap.
Also Read: SCOOP: Abhay Pannu signed to direct the FIRST HORROR film in the history of Yash Raj Films
read moreEXCLUSIVE: Rajpal Yadav begins shoot for Salman Khan starrer by Dil Raju-Vamshi Paidipally
Salman Khan is fondly called the superstar with the largest heart in the Indian film industry. Over the years, he has always stood by everyone in need, and the industry often reaches out to him in times of grief. A while back, Salman took social media by storm by lending his support to Rajpal Yadav, who is presently fighting a financial crisis in life. He shared, "Rajpal bhai aap 30 yrs se kaam kar rahe ho aur hum sabne aapko repeat kiya hai baar baar kyunki aap apna kaam jante ho aur ek value laate ho, kaam toh aapko bohot milega aur issi dollar rate pe milega aur milte rahega. Hakikat yeh hai. Aur yeh yaad rakhna ke kabhi kabhi flow mai kuch nikal aata hai, dena hi hai toh dimag mai rakho dil se kaam karo, dollar upar ho ya neeche kya farak padta hai dena toh India mai hi hai @rajpalofficial."
Just days after the post went viral, we have exclusively learnt that Salman Khan has signed Rajpal Yadav to play a key role in his next feature film to be produced by Dil Raju with director Vamshi Paidipally. "Salman Khan has cast Rajpal Yadav to play a key role in this action-packed entertainer. Rajpal will be playing Salman Khan's right hand in the film and will share a strong dynamic bond throughout the story. It's one of the most important characters, and the casting has happened on merit. Salman is very fond of Rajpal and feels that he fits the bill to the T for his particular part," shared a source with Bollywood Hungama.
Rajpal was initially expected to start shooting for the film in the month of May, however, sources state that the actor commenced shooting yesterday. "Rajpal is excited to reunite with Salman Khan. The duo has worked together on several cult films, including the likes of Partner (Chotta Don) and Mujhse Shaadi Karogi (Chotta Pandit). This one, too, has a unique character trait for Rajpal, and the comic angle will bring the house down with laughter."
Salman Khan and Dil Raju's next will hit the big screen in the first half of 2027. The shoot begins next week in Mumbai.
Also Read: Salman Khan to shoot separate promo for title announcement of his next with Vamshi Paidipally: Report
read moreMadhu Mantena and Ira Trivedi name their first child 'Neel Chaitanya Mantena'; share glimpses of Namkaran ceremony
Madhu Mantena and his wife Ira Trivedi have welcomed their first child, a baby boy named Neel Chaitanya Mantena. The couple shared the announcement through social media, posting pictures from a traditional welcoming ceremony held with family members. The couple also revealed that the child’s name is Neel Chaitanya Mantena. In their post, they described the meaning behind the name, saying it carries references to Lord Krishna’s blue colour and Lord Shiva’s stillness.
Along with the announcement, Madhu and Ira shared images from the baby’s Naamkaran Sanskar, a naming ceremony traditionally performed in many Indian households. They mentioned that the ritual took place on the 11th day after the child’s birth. While the couple chose not to reveal their baby’s face in the pictures, the family moments drew warm wishes from followers and friends.
In their caption, they wrote that they had followed several sanskars prescribed in the Vedas, beginning with Garbhasanskar during pregnancy and continuing with the Naamkaran ceremony after birth. They also sought blessings and good wishes for their growing family. Madhu Mantena and Ira Trivedi got married in 2023 in a ceremony attended by several members of the film industry. Since then, the couple has occasionally shared glimpses of their personal milestones on social media.
Madhu Mantena is known for backing several notable Hindi films over the years, including Ghajini, Rakta Charitra, Lootera, Queen, Masaan and Loveyapa. Ira Trivedi is widely known for her work as an author and yoga teacher.
The announcement has been met with congratulatory messages, as the couple begin a new chapter with the arrival of their son.
Also Read: Madhu Mantena’s Mad Man Films joins hands with Collective Studios’ Ratpack Stories for two feature films
read moreEXCLUSIVE: Much awaited trailer of Aakhri Sawal to release on April 30
Starring Sanjay Dutt, Aakhri Sawal has quickly become one of the most anticipated upcoming films, with audiences eagerly looking forward to its release. Following the strong buzz around its announcement, the makers unveiled the teaser on Hanuman Jayanti, presenting a never-before-seen glimpse into the history of the world’s largest voluntary organization, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
Now, the makers are gearing up for the much-awaited trailer, set to release on April 30, 2026. It will be unveiled at a grand launch event in the presence of the entire cast and crew.
Aakhri Sawal also marks the return of actresses Neetu Chandra and Sameera Reddy. Sharing her thoughts on bagging the film, Neetu said recently, “Over the years, my perspective has evolved. I don’t chase roles anymore; I chase stories that stay with you. Aakhri Sawal is one such film. It’s not just cinema, it’s a question that lingers long after the lights go out. Being part of something so intense and thought-provoking feels far more meaningful than simply being in the spotlight.”
Reddy said a few days ago, “I didn’t step back into films to play it safe and Aakhri Sawal is far from comfortable. My understanding of RSS was limited and largely shaped by half-knowledge, but after reading the script, I realised how much of it didn’t add up. That realisation stayed with me. This isn’t a film that reassures you -it unsettles you, challenges your beliefs, and pushes you to question what you’ve always accepted. I wanted my return to stand for something fearless, something that sparks debate and this does exactly that.”
Aakhri Sawal is directed by National Award–winning filmmaker Abhijeet Mohan Warang. Presented by Nikhil Nanda, the film is produced by Nikhil Nanda and Sanjay Dutt, and co-produced by Puneet Nanda, Dr. Deepak Singh, Gaurav Dubey, and Ujjwal Anand. The story, screenplay, and dialogues are written by Utkarsh Naithani. The film is set to release in cinemas on May 8, 2026.
Also Read: Sameera Reddy opens up on film comeback with Sanjay Dutt starrer Aakhri Sawal; says, “I wanted my return to stand for something fearless”
read moreSafal signs Tara Sutaria for new packaged coconut water campaign
Safal, the horticulture division of Mother Dairy, has launched a new campaign for its packaged coconut water featuring Tara Sutaria. The initiative aims to position coconut water as an everyday beverage choice rather than one associated only with specific occasions such as summer refreshment or post-workout hydration.
Conceptualised by Ogilvy, the campaign is built around the theme #TheSafalWayToRecharge. It focuses on convenience, accessibility and easy consumption during daily routines. The campaign is being rolled out primarily through digital platforms, led by a digital video commercial (DVC).
The campaign film features Tara Sutaria during a shopping outing, where she pauses for a short break and chooses packaged coconut water as a quick refreshment option. Through this setting, the brand highlights the idea of on-the-go consumption and positions the drink as a practical choice during everyday moments.
Speaking about the campaign, Jayatheertha Chary said that changing consumer lifestyles have created a growing demand for convenient ways to recharge during the day. He added that the campaign seeks to shift packaged coconut water from being seen as a situational beverage to one that can fit naturally into multiple moments across the day.
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According to the company, the campaign presents coconut water as a quick, natural and guilt-free option that can be consumed anytime and anywhere.
Safal entered the packaged coconut water segment in 2025. The product has been positioned around convenience and consistency, with coconuts sourced from Tamil Nadu. The company has also stated that the beverage contains no added sugar.
With this latest campaign, Safal appears to be strengthening its presence in the growing ready-to-drink natural beverage market while encouraging wider consumption beyond traditional seasonal demand.
Also Read: “New beginnings”: Tara Sutaria moves into her first house, shares glimpse of elegant Mumbai abode
read moreRashmika Mandanna to return as presenter at 10th Global Anime Awards in Tokyo
Rashmika Mandanna is set to return to the 10th Global Anime Awards as a presenter. The event is scheduled to take place in Tokyo on May 23, 2026. Rashmika previously attended the ceremony in 2024, where she became one of the first Indian film personalities to present an award at the event. The Anime Awards recognise achievements in anime across multiple categories and attract talent from different parts of the entertainment industry.
This year, Rashmika will be part of an international presenters’ line-up that also includes The Weeknd. Their presence reflects the growing global reach of the ceremony and the increasing crossover between film, music, and animation audiences.
Rashmika has built a strong presence across Telugu, Kannada, Tamil, and Hindi cinema, with several successful projects in recent years. Her continued appearances on international platforms also highlight the wider recognition of Indian talent globally. The actress has also spoken in the past about her appreciation for anime and its storytelling. Her association with the event aligns with her personal interest in the genre and the expanding global popularity of anime culture.
The 10th Global Anime Awards will be held in Tokyo on May 23, 2026.
Also Read: Rashmika Mandanna says “Things are getting super bloody” on Mysaa sets; actress teases intense new avatar
read moreAfter Q1 success, Abundantia Entertainment announces 2026 slate led by Madhuri Dixit, Anil Kapoor and Triptii Dimri
As the Indian entertainment industry contends with increased volatility and a demanding, screen-agnostic audience, Abundantia Entertainment has broken through and opened 2026 with a decisive statement of intent for the future. The studio, founded and led by Vikram Malhotra, has registered two consecutive successes on Amazon Prime Video within the first quarter itself – Daldal, the chilling thriller series led by Bhumi Pednekar, and Subedaar, the visceral action drama headlined by Anil Kapoor and directed by Suresh Triveni and now, the company has underlined a slate of exciting releases for the balance year, placing itself firmly among the most ambitious and diversified content pipelines in the country.
Abundantia’s slate spans both long-form series and feature films, with titles earmarked for Amazon Prime Video, Netflix and theatres – a distribution footprint that underscores Abundantia's platform-agnostic philosophy and its conviction in meeting audiences wherever they choose to engage with Abundantia’s brand of engaging and entertaining storytelling.
Beyond the immediate calendar, Abundantia is investing consistently in the architecture of what comes next. Under ‘aiON’, Abundantia's dedicated Artificial Intelligence-driven content division, the company recently announced a strategic partnership with AI video technology firm invideo, to establish India's first AI-driven film studio, anchored by a $10 million commitment between the two companies. The alliance will develop and produce a slate of five AI-led films over the next three years. The division has also collaborated with Collective Media Network's Historyverse, to co-produce Chiranjeevi Hanuman — The Eternal, which is slated for a worldwide release later in 2026.
Commenting on the momentum, Vikram Malhotra, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Abundantia Entertainment, said: “Great stories do more than just find audiences; they build enduring businesses, and that has been our thesis from the outset. Our investment in artificial intelligence through aiON and the partnership with invideo, coupled with a diversified slate across Netflix, Prime Video and theatres, is a direct expression of that belief.
The reception to Daldal and Subedaar establishes the tone for everything that follows this year. Our incredible collaboration with the amazingly versatile Suresh Triveni has already witnessed two fantastic outings in these titles and is set to hit its peak with the forthcoming release of Maa Behen. I am equally excited about new collaborations with terrific creators like Hansal Mehta, Pulkit and Rajesh Mapuskar, who are underway with some stellar work as Abundantia continues to strive to tell differentiated and disruptive stories. I am super excited about every chapter of the journey that 2026 holds”.
Translating that ambition into a concrete slate, Abundantia will mark its Netflix debut with two marquee projects - Maa Behen, a distinctive comedy directed by Suresh Triveni, starring Madhuri Dixit, Triptii Dimri, Dharna Durga and Ravi Kishan; and Family Business, a powerful drama series helmed by Hansal Mehta, featuring Anil Kapoor and Vijay Varma in lead roles. Additionally, on Prime Video, the studio will follow with Sundar Poonam, a romantic thriller directed by Pulkit and starring Sanya Malhotra, currently in production.
The intrinsic force of a content engine operating at high capacity and a substantive, strategic commitment to AI as the next frontier of filmmaking point to Abundantia Entertainment authoring a distinctly powerful narrative for 2026 and beyond, one in which industry disruption is approached not as a headwind to be managed, but as the company's natural operating environment.
Also Read: Lord Hanuman gets AI-powered cinematic makeover: Abundantia Entertainment and Collective Media Network announce Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal
read moreSalman Khan to shoot separate promo for title announcement of his next with Vamshi Paidipally: Report
Salman Khan’s upcoming pan-India film with Nayanthara, currently referred to as SVC63, is reportedly preparing for a major title reveal event. The project, which recently began production, is expected to unveil its official title through a specially designed promotional video featuring Salman Khan.
Directed by Vamshi Paidipally and produced by Dil Raju, the film has already generated strong interest as it marks a significant collaboration between Bollywood and South Indian cinema. The yet-untitled venture is officially scheduled for an Eid 2027 release.
According to a report by Mid-Day, the makers are planning a separate visual asset dedicated solely to announcing the film’s title. A source told the publication, “As is the case with many South films, titles of big releases are launched in style with visual assets. While the movie’s shoot has begun, the team has decided to film a separate video asset with Salman to unveil the title.”
This suggests that the production team is aiming for a large-scale introduction rather than a standard announcement. Over the past few years, title reveal videos have become a popular strategy for major South-led releases, often combining motion posters, dramatic visuals, and character glimpses.
Another insider added that the promo is being designed to match Salman Khan’s star image and action appeal. “Salman is one of the biggest action stars in the country. The team wants the video to do justice to his stardom and screen presence. It will also showcase his look in the film.”
While the exact shooting date for the promotional asset is yet to be finalised, anticipation is already building around the project. The film officially went on floors in Mumbai in late April 2026, with a mahurat ceremony attended by Salman Khan and Nayanthara. A launch video from the set had earlier confirmed that production had commenced.
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The project is particularly notable as it brings together Salman Khan and Nayanthara for the first time. It also marks Salman’s association with acclaimed filmmaker Vamshi Paidipally, known for commercially successful films such as Varisu and Maharshi.
With production now underway and a title reveal in the pipeline, SVC63 is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched big-ticket releases lined up for 2027.
Also Read: Salman Khan confirms Eid 2027 release for next action entertainer with Vamshi Paidipally; shares update
read moreEXCLUSIVE: Akshay Kumar-starrer Vedat Marathe Veer Daudle Saat shoot complete, post-production underway; makers eyeing January 1, 2027 release
As the industry, trade and fans gear up for Raja Shivaji this Friday, reports started coming in about another ambitious film on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj that was launched with much fanfare some years ago – Vedat Marathe Veer Daudle Saat. Directed by Mahesh Manjrekar, it stars Akshay Kumar in the role of the great emperor. The reports stated that the film hadn’t been completed and raised questions about whether it would ever see the light of day. Bollywood Hungama has learned that contrary to these reports, the film is very much on track.
A source told Bollywood Hungama, “The shoot of the film has been successfully completed and right now, post-production is going on. There has indeed been a delay, but a team has been dedicatedly working on the film regularly.”
The source continued, “Akshay Kumar has shot for the film for 25 days and has poured life into the role of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Moreover, Mahesh Manjrekar has mounted the film on a grand scale. It has shaped up to be one of the grandest films in Indian cinema.”
When asked about the release date, the source added, “The makers are yet to lock the release, but at present, they are eyeing the January 1, 2027 slot. An official announcement will be made once the makers finalize the release.”
Besides Akshay Kumar, Vedat Marathe Veer Daudle Saat also stars Mahesh Manjrekar’s son Satya along with Pravin Tarde, Jay Dudhane, Hardik Joshi, Vishal Nikam, Utkarsh Shinde and Virat Madke. The period action film will release in Hindi, Marathi, Tamil and Telugu.
Vedat Marathe Veer Daudle Saat will touch upon the historic Battle of Nesari on February 24, 1674, where seven brave men, led by Senapati Prataprao Gujar, fought against the massive army of Adilshahi general, Bahlol Khan.
Also Read: SCOOP: Shoot of Akshay Kumar’s Marathi film Vedat Marathe Veer Daudle Saat halted due to budget problems
read moreTabu reunites with Nagarjuna after 28 years for his landmark film King 100
Actor Tabu has officially begun shooting for King 100, the upcoming milestone project headlined by superstar Nagarjuna. The film holds special significance as it marks the 100th feature of Nagarjuna’s celebrated career and is being produced under his home banner, Annapurna Studios. The project also brings an exciting reunion, with Tabu and Nagarjuna set to share screen space once again after 28 years. King 100 will be their fourth collaboration, making it a nostalgic and highly anticipated moment for fans who have admired their pairing over the years.
Tabu shared the update on social media by posting a clapboard image, confirming that she has joined the film’s shoot. She also tagged the makers and expressed her enthusiasm for the project. Soon after her arrival, Annapurna Studios gave the actor a warm and grand welcome, celebrating her return to what many fans consider familiar creative ground.
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Tabu and Nagarjuna have shared a memorable cinematic journey in the past. Their most notable collaboration remains the 1996 Telugu blockbuster Ninne Pelladata, a film that became both a commercial and critical success. It went on to win the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Telugu and remains one of the most loved romantic dramas of its era.
Before that, Tabu made a brief cameo appearance in Sisindri (1995), a film produced by Nagarjuna that famously starred his son Akhil Akkineni as a toddler. The duo later worked together again in the 1998 romantic comedy Aavida Maa Aavide.
Now, after nearly three decades, the two stars are reuniting for a fresh chapter. While details about their roles are being kept under wraps, sources suggest that both actors will be seen in powerful and distinctly different characters.
Also Read: Tabu drops hearts on alleged ex-beau Nagarjuna’s photo with Naga Chaitanya
read moreAamir Khan CONFIRMS 3 Idiots sequel is in the works, reveals Rajkumar Hirani directorial is set 10 years later: “It’s a beautiful story”
Actor Aamir Khan has shared a major update that is likely to excite fans of one of Hindi cinema’s most loved films. During a recent conversation with Amar Ujala, the actor confirmed that a sequel to 3 Idiots is currently in development, with filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani and writer Abhijat Joshi working on the project. Aamir, who is presently occupied with promotions for Ek Din, the upcoming film produced under his banner and starring his son Junaid Khan alongside Sai Pallavi in her Hindi film debut, spoke about the long-awaited sequel while discussing future projects.
He first addressed another script based on the life of Dadasaheb Phalke and explained that the project has been paused for now. “The story of Dadasaheb Phalke is a very inspirational one, and Raju was working on it. He made three drafts, but he is still not happy with the script. So, it has been put on the back burner for now. Maybe they will revisit it later.”
Aamir then revealed that Rajkumar Hirani is currently focusing on 3 Idiots 2. “At this moment, I think he is working on 3 Idiots 2. Yes. I have heard the story, and it has turned out very well.”
The actor praised the writing and said the sequel retains the charm of the original while offering something fresh. “The script is still being worked on, but it is a very good story. It has the same kind of humour and is also a very unusual story.”
He further shared that the sequel will revisit the beloved characters from the 2009 blockbuster, but in a new phase of life. “It is the story of the same characters you saw in 3 Idiots, but 10 years later. This is also a film that I will do in the coming days.”
Aamir also expressed excitement about returning to his memorable role of Phunsukh Wangdu. “It’s a beautiful story, and I think Abhijat and Raju have written and conceived it very well. I am also waiting to do that. Once again, I will have to step into the character of Phunsukh Wangdu.”
Released in 2009, 3 Idiots became a landmark success and remains one of the most iconic films in Indian cinema. News of a sequel is expected to generate massive anticipation among audiences.
Also Read: Aamir Khan and R Madhavan deny being approached for 3 Idiots sequel: “It also sounds far-fetched”
read moreFarhan Akhtar shares lesson from Don 3 fiasco: “Just take it in your stride”
Actor-filmmaker Farhan Akhtar has opened up about the challenges surrounding Don 3, offering a measured response amid continuing speculation over the film’s status. In a recent interaction with The Hollywood Reporter India, Farhan reflected on setbacks and uncertainty, saying the experience has taught him one important lesson: to always expect surprises.
Speaking candidly, Farhan said, “What I've learned is to expect the unexpected. Nothing can be taken for granted until you actually have it on film. That’s really what it is.”
He looked back at the start of his career and the people who believed in him early on. “I also feel that from the time that I began, from that moment when Aamir Khan, Akshaye Khanna, Preity Zinta, Dimple Kapadia, Saif Ali Khan, and Ritesh Sidhwani, as my partner, till they came on and said yes, ‘let’s make this film’ – from that moment on I've had the most incredible ride,” he shared.
Farhan added that his career has largely been shaped by meaningful collaborations, whether as a director or actor. “It has just been about working with the people I want to work with, whether directing them or acting in films that I want to act in with directors. And it has been amazing.”
He further acknowledged that difficult phases are part of any long career and should be handled with maturity. “You realise that at some point, there will be a period that’s going to be a little bit more challenging. You have had it good, so it’s okay… Just take it in your stride.”
His remarks come at a time when Don 3 has remained in headlines due to reports of delays and changes involving the cast. Ranveer Singh had been officially announced as the new face of the franchise in 2023, stepping into one of Hindi cinema’s most iconic roles. However, later reports suggested that the actor had exited the project amid scheduling and creative issues. While multiple claims have surfaced regarding negotiations and financial settlements, no final clarity has yet emerged.
Also Read: Inside the Explosive Don 3 meet: What really went down behind closed doors as Ritesh Sidhwani-Farhan Akhtar locked horns with Ranveer over Rs. 40 crores
read moreEXCLUSIVE: After OMG Oh My God and 102 Not Out, Umesh Shukla's acclaimed play Madhuri vs Dixit to be made into a film
Umesh Shukla has been a popular name among Gujarati audiences for several years and since 2012, he has also enjoyed nationwide popularity. That was the year when OMG Oh My God, an adaptation of his cult Gujarati play Kanji Viruddh Kanji, was made as a Bollywood film. Starring Paresh Rawal and Akshay Kumar, the devotional courtroom drama emerged as a sleeper super-hit. Six years later, he made 102 Not Out (2018), an adaptation of the Gujarati play of the same name. The film adaptation, starring Amitabh Bachchan and Rishi Kapoor, was also a success. And now, Umesh Shukla is all set to adapt yet another of his acclaimed plays for the big screen – Madhuri vs Dixit.
Madhuri vs Dixit is a Hindi play and its premiere took place on April 26 in Mumbai. Interestingly, it was earlier staged in Gujarati, with the title Madhuri Dixit. It stars Riddhi Shukla and Vyas Hemang in leading roles. Interestingly, the former is also the wife of Umesh Shukla. Unnati Gala and Harshad Patel feature in supporting parts. Umesh Shukla has penned the adapted screenplay and is also one of the producers of the play, along with Chetan Gandhi and Saumya Joshi. Madhuri vs Dixit as well as Madhuri Dixit is directed by Swapnil Baraskar.
Umesh Shukla spoke exclusively with Bollywood Hungama and began by revealing the premiere experience. He said, “Paresh Rawal, Dilip Joshi and many others gave very positive video bytes. The premiere yesterday was zabardast. Kya show tha; it was electrifying!”
Umesh then confirmed that the script is in its final stages. When asked if the film will feature the same cast or different actors, he replied, “I plan to have the same cast, mostly. I first plan to make it as a Gujarati film and then I’ll see whether I want to make it in Hindi. The other alternative is to make it bilingual in Hindi and Gujarati.” He also revealed, “This would be my first Gujarati film.”
Umesh Shukla continued, “We did 149 shows of Madhuri Dixit in Gujarati. For the landmark 150th show, we launched the Hindi version as Madhuri vs Dixit. Now, I’ll stage both the Hindi and Gujarati versions of the play parallelly. The Hindi version is far sharper.”
This reminds one of Kanji Viruddh Kanji, which also had versions in multiple languages. Umesh Shukla confirmed, “Yes. In fact, it used to run in three languages – Kanji Viruddh Kanji in Gujarati, Keshava Madhava in Marathi and Kishan vs Kanhaiya in Hindi.”
Will the film also be titled Madhuri vs Dixit? Umesh Shukla replied, “Indeed. That is what the title of the film would be.”
Lastly, when asked if noted actress Madhuri Dixit has seen the play, Umesh Shukla said, “She was busy shooting yesterday and couldn’t attend the premiere. Our next show is at ISKCON Auditorium, Mumbai on May 9. I’ll be inviting her again and I hope she can make it this time. I am in touch with her team and she’s aware of the play.”
read moreVeteran actor Bharat Kapoor dies at 80 in Mumbai; family performs last rites
Bharat Kapoor, known for his extensive work in Hindi cinema across several decades, passed away in Mumbai on Monday at the age of 80. The veteran actor reportedly breathed his last at Sion Hospital in the afternoon after facing health complications in recent days.
Reportedly, Bharat Kapoor had been unwell for the last few days and was undergoing treatment. His condition worsened due to multiple organ-related complications. His last rites were held later in the evening in the presence of family members, friends, and members of the film fraternity.
Actor Avtar Gill confirmed the news and shared details about Kapoor’s final hours. Speaking about the loss, he told India Today, “I just came from the cremation, it was done at 6:30 pm. He died at 3pm today in Sion Hospital, Mumbai. He was not feeling well from last three days. From last three days his multiple organs started failing.”
Bharat Kapoor was a recognizable presence in Hindi films, particularly through the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. While he may not always have played central roles, he built a respected career with memorable supporting performances. He was often cast in authoritative characters such as police officers, lawyers, businessmen, and antagonists, bringing a distinct screen presence to each role.
Over the years, he appeared in several notable films that remain popular with audiences. His filmography includes Noorie, Ram Balram, Love Story, Bazaar, Ghulami, Aakhree Raasta, Satyamev Jayate, Swarg, Khuda Gawah and Rang.
Also Read: Asha Bhosle dies at 92; last rites to be held tomorrow
read moreMEGA EXCLUSIVE: Firoz A. Nadiadwallah registers FIR over Hera Pheri franchise rights dispute
In February 2026, G P Vijayakumar, the Managing Director of Seven Arts International, moved the Madras High Court over noted film producer Firoz A. Nadiadwallah's decision to make Hera Pheri 3. Vijayakumar claimed that the filmmaker doesn’t own the rights to the franchise and that he is the rightful owner. He also questioned whether the sequel can actually be made without his permission. The matter has taken a dramatic turn today. Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learned from a source that a cheating and copyright infringement FIR has been registered at Amboli Police Station, Mumbai, on April 27, 2026, following a complaint by Firoz A. Nadiadwallah.
Our source says that the FIR invokes offences under sections 318(4), 356 and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. The police have named Gopala Pillai Vijayakumar and M Paul Michael, also known as Lal, as accused in the matter.
Our source further stated adds that Firoz A. Nadiadwallah mentioned in his complaint that his claims are backed by a strong documentary trail, including assignment agreements, financial records, and documents relating to the copyright and other rights of the Hera Pheri franchise. Our source also revealed that documents in Mr Firoz A. Nadiadwallah’s possession establish his position as the rightful exclusive owner, in perpetuity, of the entire copyright and all related rights of the Hera Pheri franchise.
As per legal insiders, with the registration of the FIR, the investigation is expected to examine the chain of title, contractual obligations, prior settlements, and financial dealings to determine the extent of the alleged wrongdoing.
About Hera Pheri series The first part was released in 2000 and became a cult classic thanks to its subject, fresh treatment, hilarious scenes and performances. The sequel, Phir Hera Pheri (2006), was a bigger hit and is a legendary film in the world of memes. While Hera Pheri was directed by Priyadarshan, the late Neeraj Vora helmed Phir Hera Pheri. Neeraj Vora also worked in the first part, as a writer.
Also Read: Priyadarshan REACTS to Paresh Rawal’s “Gale Ka Phanda” comment on Baburao: “He jumped at the role then”
read moreSCOOP: Atlee to use body double of Deepika Padukone for key action sequences of Allu Arjun's Raka
Deepika Padukone recently took to social media to announce that she is expecting her second child with husband Ranveer Singh, sparking a wave of joy and excitement across the industry. However, the development also led to murmurs in trade circles, as Deepika reportedly still has around 50 days of shoot left for Atlee’s much-awaited Raka, headlined by Allu Arjun. Many assumed that the filmmaker would be concerned by the unexpected turn of events, given the scale and schedule of the project.
But we have exclusively learnt that Atlee has been more than just supportive towards Deepika Padukone. "Atlee was overjoyed when he heard the news of Deepika's pregnancy. Instead of panicking on his shoot schedule, he sat down with his team and came up with a plan B. Most of the key action sequences featuring Deepika Padukone will now be done using her body double. The actress has already given some close up sequences and the same will be merged using VFX for the final print," a source close to the production shared with Bollywood Hungama.
The film features an action packed role for Deepika, and the makers don't want to risk by pushing her to perform all those stunts. "Deepika has a stellar entry, as also a big action moment with Allu Arjun. All of those will now be done by a double, whereas Deepika will continue to shoot the dramatic moments. Her role stays intact, with no deletion what so ever. She is a key protagonist of Raka, and nothing changes due to pregnancy."
The team of King too has fast tracked the shoots with Deepika Padukone to ensure that all the action and song moments are done in the early stages, without wanting her to push too much. All in all, the actress is on a roll, unstoppable and slaying like a boss.
Also Read: “She’s my lucky charm”: Atlee on Deepika Padukone, says she will be seen in a “very different” avatar in AA22XA6
read moreBobby Deol’s Bandar, directed by Anurag Kashyap, to release on June 5, 2026
The makers of Bandar have now officially announced its release date. The film is set to hit cinemas worldwide on June 5, 2026.
The film stars Bobby Deol in the lead role and it brings together a strong creative team led by director Anurag Kashyap, along with writers Sudip Sharma and Abhishek Banerjee. Known for his bold storytelling, Anurag Kashyap has previously delivered cult classics like Gangs of Wasseypur and Black Friday.
Coming off a series of impactful performances, Bobby Deol takes on the lead role in this intense drama. The film is produced by Nikhil Dwivedi and backed by Zee Studios. The film is written by Sudip Sharma and Abhishek Banerjee, known for acclaimed projects like Paatal Lok, Kohrra, and Udta Punjab. Sudip Sharma also recently directed Kohrra 2, which has been widely appreciated by critics.
The ensemble cast of the film also includes Sanya Malhotra, Raj B Shetty, Jitendra Joshi, Sapna Pabbi, Indrajith Sukumaran, Riddhi Sen, Saba Azad and Nagesh Bhosle in pivotal roles. With a talented team behind it and a strong cast, Bandar is shaping up to be one of the keenly awaited theatrical releases to watch out for in 2026.
Also Read: “I don’t miss it at all”: Bobby Deol on sobriety after seeing Dharmendra’s battle
read moreKajal Aggarwal, Shreyas Talpade starrer The India Story to release on July 24; film tackles chemical misuse crisis
Kajal Aggarwal and Shreyas Talpade are set to headline The India Story, an upcoming socio-national drama slated for a theatrical release on July 24. Presented by Zee Studios in association with MIG Production & Studios, the film is directed by Chettan DK and produced and written by Sagar B Shinde.
The film, also referred to as The India Story: Slow Poison in Progress, is centred on the consequences of chemical misuse, particularly in pesticide farming and related controversies. According to the makers, the narrative moves beyond the struggles of one family to address a wider public health and safety issue.
Sharing the motivation behind the project, producer Sagar B Shinde said, “We chose to tell this story because it reflects a reality that often goes unnoticed but impacts countless lives across the country. The misuse of chemicals, especially in pesticide farming, is not just an environmental concern, it’s a human crisis. Through this film, we hope to raise awareness and initiate meaningful conversations around accountability and change.”
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The makers state that the film aims to combine a socially relevant subject with a dramatic narrative, while highlighting concerns around industrial negligence and regulatory accountability.
Director Chettan DK also spoke about the making of the film and the performances of the lead cast. He said, “Every member of the team, from the crew to the cast, has put in immense dedication to bring authenticity to this story. Kajal and Shreyas have delivered incredibly nuanced performances, and their commitment has truly elevated the film. We’ve worked hard to ensure that the narrative remains both engaging and impactful.”
The India Story also marks the first on-screen collaboration between Kajal Aggarwal and Shreyas Talpade. The pairing is expected to bring a fresh dynamic to the film’s intense and issue-based storyline.
The project is backed by co-producers Sumit Bagade, Anita Jadhav, Vinayak Saidani, Kalpesh Shah, Devyani Khorate and Prem Joshi. The technical team includes cinematographer Nishant Bhagwat, music composer Mangesh Dhakde, editor Ashish Mhatre, lyricist Shakeel Azami and sound designer Anmol Bhave.
The film is scheduled to release in Hindi, Telugu and Tamil as a Zee Studios worldwide release on July 24.
Also Read: Kajal Aggarwal and Shreyas Talpade wrap The India Storry, based on pesticide-related scandals
read moreRhea Chakraborty wins legal relief after court defreezes bank accounts frozen in 2020
Actor Rhea Chakraborty has received significant legal relief after a Mumbai special court ordered the defreezing of bank accounts belonging to her, her brother Showik Chakraborty, and their mother Sandhya Chakraborty. These accounts had been frozen in 2020 by the Narcotics Control Bureau during its investigation linked to the death of Sushant Singh Rajput.
According to reports, the special NDPS court found that the Narcotics Control Bureau had not followed the mandatory procedure under Section 68F of the NDPS Act within the stipulated time frame. As a result, the court held that the continuation of the freezing orders could not be sustained and allowed the release of the remaining accounts. It also noted that there was no compliance with Sub-section (2) of Section 68F and that no order had been passed as required under the provision, leading to the application being allowed.
The accounts were originally frozen when the Narcotics Control Bureau initiated a drugs-related probe in 2020 following the death of Sushant Singh Rajput, a case that drew massive public attention and saw multiple agencies carrying out parallel investigations.
With this ruling, a long-standing financial restriction on the family has been lifted, marking another important development in the prolonged legal aftermath of the case. As she continues to rebuild both personally and professionally, actor Rhea Chakraborty will next be seen in Hansal Mehta’s Netflix show Family Business.
Also Read: Rhea Chakraborty on making a comeback with Family Business after going through nightmare, “I wasn’t okay with my fate being decided by trolls, social media and media”
read moreEXCLUSIVE: The Devil Wears Prada 2 craze grips urban India; sells 11,000 tickets in less than 24 hours, eyes Michael’s 1 lakh advance-ticket benchmark
The first two months of 2026 weren’t great for Hollywood films in India, but the tide now seems to have turned. Project Hail Mary emerged as a surprise super-hit and is expected to cross the Rs. 80 crore mark in its lifetime. Lee Cronin's The Mummy has performed better than expectations. Last week, Bollywood Hungama was the first one to report that Michael was all set for a huge opening, as proven by its advance ticket sales. The biopic managed to sell more than 1 lakh tickets, stunning the trade. The film has collected nearly Rs. 15-16 crores in three days, including previews. And now, this week, The Devil Wears Prada 2 is set to spring a surprise at the box office.
The Devil Wears Prada 2 is all set to release on Friday, May 1, with previews from 7:00 pm on Thursday, April 30. As per the data accessed by Bollywood Hungama, the comedy drama has sold nearly 11,000 tickets for the weekend and paid previews, as of the morning of Monday, April 27. What’s interesting to note is that tickets started getting sold as soon as bookings went live on Sunday, April 26.
The first part of The Devil Wears Prada 2 was released 20 years ago, in 2006, but continues to enjoy cult status for its dramatic scenes, ode to fashion and, of course, Meryl Streep’s legendary performance. Anne Hathaway, Stanley Tucci, and Emily Blunt’s performances were also quite loved and boosted their respective careers. A sequel to a two-decade-old film is always tricky, as one never knows whether the present generation of young audiences will turn up excitedly for a film whose original instalment was released either before they were born or when they were too young. In a market like India, it becomes all the more complicated, especially when films without mainstream mass appeal tend to do business in limited centres only.
However, the advance booking of The Devil Wears Prada 2 proves that both young audiences and older fans seem equally kicked about it. The film will release only in English and it’s pretty clear that urban premium audiences are expected to drive the sales. However, if this segment accepts the film, a healthy lifetime can be assured, as evident from the box office performance of films like Barbie (2023), F1: The Movie (2025), and the recently released Project Hail Mary and Michael.
The target for The Devil Wears Prada 2 will now be to beat the 1 lakh mark achieved by Michael in advance ticket sales. Despite the hype and encouraging bookings, it faces a major challenge as it releases on a very crowded weekend, with almost every industry coming up with a significant film on May 1. These include Raja Shivaji in Hindi and Marathi, Ek Din in Hindi, Patriot in Malayalam, Dhabkaaro in Gujarati, Pitt Siyapa in Punjabi and more. Hence, screen-sharing issues might crop up. Nevertheless, the strong start to advance booking and the urgency among audiences to book tickets are encouraging indicators and should infuse confidence in the studio.
Also Read: A hush-hush screening for The Devil Wears Prada 2 is being planned; will Karan Johar be among the first to watch it?
read moreEXCLUSIVE: Ginny Wedss Sunny 2 screened at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, producer Vinod Bachchan expresses gratitude
The makers of Ginny Wedss Sunny 2 hosted a special screening of the film at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, marking a significant and proud moment for the entire team. The screening at such a venue underscores a major achievement for the film.
Producer Vinod Bachchan expressed his gratitude on the occasion and said, “We are truly honoured to have Ginny Wedss Sunny 2 screened at Rashtrapati Bhavan. It’s a proud moment for the entire team to see the film appreciated on such a prestigious venue. The love the film has received so far has been very encouraging, and this recognition makes the journey even more special for all of us.”
Since its release, Ginny Wedss Sunny 2 has been receiving a warm response from audiences, with its storyline, performances, and entertainment quotient striking a chord across demographics. The Rashtrapati Bhavan screening adds another milestone to the film’s journey.
Adding to the evening’s charm, Sudhir Pandey, Lillete Dubey, Nushratt Bharuccha, Adarsh Gourav, Taha Shah Badussha, Abhimanyu Dasani, and others attended the special screening.
Ginny Wedss Sunny 2, presented by Zee Studios and Soundrya Production, is produced by Vinod Bachchan and Umesh Kumar Bansal. Written and directed by Prasshant Jha, and starring Avinash Tiwary and Medha Shankr, the film is currently running in cinemas near you.
Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Vinod Bachchan promises Ginny Wedss Sunny 2 is a clean entertainer that can be watched with family: “It’s like a Rajshri film”; reveals why romcom was postponed from April 2 to April 24: “Poori industry Dhurandhar se dari hui thi”
read moreDivyenndu CONFIRMS Kunal Kemmu is working on Madgaon Express 2 script: “We are all very, very excited”
Fans of Madgaon Express have reason to celebrate. Actor Divyenndu has confirmed that a sequel to the 2024 comedy hit is officially in the works, with director Kunal Kemmu currently developing the script for Madgaon Express 2. The original film, which marked Kunal Kemmu’s directorial debut, starred Divyenndu, Pratik Gandhi, and Avinash Tiwary in lead roles. It was praised for its quirky humour, energetic performances, and refreshing storytelling, quickly earning a loyal fan base after release.
In an exclusive conversation with Variety India, Divyenndu offered an encouraging update when asked about the sequel. “Yes, it's on. It's definitely on. Kunal is working on the script. We are all very, very excited,” he said.
The actor also acknowledged the strong audience response to the first film, saying, “The kind of response we got for Madgaon was so… I mean, it's got a cultish sort of a following. I'm not gonna use the word ‘cult’, because it's (the film) too new. It still has to grow and age well. But yeah, people are really excited about that film.”
Interestingly, speculation around a sequel had already started in March 2025, when Kunal Kemmu posted on Instagram that he had “finished writing the next” while celebrating the first anniversary of the film. Though the filmmaker did not reveal details at the time, Divyenndu’s latest statement now makes it clear that the project is moving ahead.
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While plot details remain under wraps, the ending of the first film had already teased a possible continuation. In the final moments, Divyenndu’s character Dodo wins a lottery and suggests that the group head to Las Vegas, opening the door for a bigger and wilder sequel.
Released in 2024, Madgaon Express followed three childhood friends whose dream Goa trip spirals into complete chaos. The film was appreciated for its comic timing and the chemistry between its lead trio.
Meanwhile, Divyenndu has a busy slate ahead. He will next be seen in Mirzapur: The Movie, which is set for a theatrical release on September 6, 2026. He also stars in Netflix’s upcoming series Glory, premiering on May 1, 2026.
Also Read: Kunal Kemmu turns producer; launches DRONGO Films with Chirag Nihalani after Madgaon Express success
read moreGolmaal 5 shooting update: Ajay Devgn posts Ooty schedule video with ‘The Boys’ and iconic bike
The excitement around Golmaal 5 continues to build after Ajay Devgn gave fans a fresh glimpse from the film’s shoot. On April 27, 2026, the actor took to Instagram to share a lively behind-the-scenes video featuring the core cast of the franchise along with one of its most memorable symbols, the famous five-seater bike.
The video quickly caught the attention of fans, as it reunited the familiar gang in a fun setting during the Ooty schedule of the film. Adding to the nostalgia, the post used the classic Golmaal theme music, instantly reminding audiences of the franchise’s comic legacy.
Ajay captioned the post, “Iss baar sawaari badi hai, aur entertainment usse bhi zyada bada hoga 🥳 #Golmaal5 Ooty schedule with the boys 😎 @itsrohitshetty @rohitshettypicturez.”
The phrase hinted that the new installment may go bigger in scale while retaining the humour and madness the series is known for. Fans were especially thrilled to see the return of the signature bike, which has become closely associated with the franchise over the years.
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The latest update comes weeks after Rohit Shetty officially announced the fifth chapter of the comedy series on March 14, 2026. The filmmaker had marked his birthday with a teaser video confirming the project and revealing that filming had begun. The announcement generated major buzz online, particularly because it brought together the original team while also teasing new surprises.
The teaser confirmed the presence of franchise regulars including Arshad Warsi, Tusshar Kapoor, Shreyas Talpade and Kunal Kemmu. It also welcomed back Sharman Joshi, who was part of the first film. Another surprise was the addition of Akshay Kumar, who appeared in a bald look in the announcement video.
First launched in 2006, the Golmaal franchise has remained one of Hindi cinema’s most successful comedy brands. Known for slapstick humour, ensemble chemistry, and family-friendly entertainment, each installment has enjoyed strong audience support.
With the Ooty schedule now underway and the cast back together, anticipation for Golmaal 5 is only growing stronger.
Also Read: Rohit Shetty drops Golmaal 5 making video; Akshay Kumar appears bald, ‘OG Laxman’ Sharman Joshi returns to franchise after 20 years!
read moreRicha Chadha to head crime thriller series, set to play detective
After leaving a lasting impression with her powerful portrayal of Lajjo, the courtesan in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s grand period drama series Heeramandi, Richa Chadha is all set to surprise audiences once again with a completely different avatar.
According to reliable industry sources, Richa will soon be seen heading a gripping crime thriller series for a leading OTT platform. In a sharp departure from her recent period role, the actress is reportedly stepping into the shoes of a detective for the upcoming project.
While details about the series are being kept tightly under wraps, it has been learnt that Richa has already begun shooting. The show is expected to explore a layered narrative set against the backdrop of crime and investigation, with Richa’s character said to be central to the unfolding mystery.
A source close to the development shared, “After Heeramandi and post pregnancy, Richa was keen to explore something radically different. The role of a detective allows her to tap into a sharp, restrained, and cerebral space. It’s a character that demands both emotional intelligence and quiet intensity qualities she naturally brings to the screen. She has already started filming, and the look and tonality are very distinct from anything she has done before.”
Known for choosing unconventional and performance-driven roles, Richa Chadha’s foray into the crime thriller space as a detective is expected to further showcase her versatility.
Also Read: Richa Chadha slams indie casting trends; says quality stories need credible actors, not expensive star faces
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read moreKarnataka HC accepts Ranveer Singh’s unconditional apology in Kantara mimicry case
The Karnataka High Court has accepted Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh's unconditional apology in the controversy linked to his alleged mimicry of a character from Kantara: Chapter 1 during a public event last year. The court orally indicated that it is likely to dispose of the matter after taking note of the revised affidavit filed by the actor.
The case was heard before Justice M. Nagaprasanna, where senior advocate Sajan Poovayya, appearing for Ranveer Singh, informed the court that a fresh affidavit had been submitted without any conditions attached. According to the counsel, the actor had also undertaken to visit the concerned temple as a mark of respect.
The controversy began after an FIR was registered against Singh over remarks made during the 56th International Film Festival of India held in Goa. During the event, the actor was accused of mimicking a character associated with Kantara: Chapter 1 and allegedly referring to the Chamundeshwari temple deity in an objectionable manner. The complaint claimed that the remarks hurt religious sentiments and offended a deeply held belief system.
During the hearing, complainant Prashant Methel reportedly told the court that the issue was not just a legal dispute but one involving faith and community sentiment. Responding to this, the court observed that this was one reason it had not stayed the FIR earlier.
The bench also indicated that while closing the case, it may record Singh’s commitment to visit the temple within the next four weeks. The complainant further argued that public figures should treat such matters seriously and that celebrities should not take faith-related sensitivities lightly.
The court noted that it would issue an order while recording the contents of the affidavit. It also remarked that a cautionary observation may be made in the matter.
Earlier this month, Ranveer Singh had informed the court that he was willing to coordinate with the complainant regarding the language of his apology after concerns were raised that his previous affidavit did not reflect genuine remorse. The actor had approached the High Court seeking quashing of the FIR filed under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to promoting disharmony and hurting religious feelings.
With the court now taking note of the unconditional apology, the matter appears to be heading toward closure.
Also Read: Ranveer Singh teams up with adidas Originals to launch India-inspired Superstar sneaker
read morePriyanka Chopra shoots cameo in Mira Nair’s Amrita Sher-Gil biopic Amri: Report
Actor Priyanka Chopra has reportedly filmed a cameo in acclaimed filmmaker Mira Nair’s upcoming biopic Amri, based on the life of celebrated painter Amrita Sher-Gil. While the project has largely been kept under wraps, fresh industry buzz suggests Chopra’s role may be brief but significant.
According to a source quoted by mid-day, Priyanka was recently in India and shot for the film after completing another commitment. “The film aims to present the painter’s life across Hungary, India, and France. There was a specific part for which Mira had approached Priyanka last year, and she shot for it last week. The actor was in Hyderabad to finish some work on Varanasi. After that, she flew down to Amritsar and filmed for two days,” the source said.
Neither Priyanka Chopra’s team nor Mira Nair’s production team had responded to the publication till press time.
The report has sparked curiosity among fans, especially since this marks the first collaboration between Priyanka Chopra and Mira Nair. Both are globally recognised names who have built successful careers across Indian and international entertainment spaces.
The lead role of Amrita Sher-Gil has reportedly gone to actor Tanya Maniktala. Mira Nair had previously worked with Tanya on the 2020 BBC drama series A Suitable Boy, where the young actor received praise for her performance.
Amri is expected to chronicle the extraordinary life of Amrita Sher-Gil, who is considered one of the most influential modern artists of the early 20th century. Born to a Hungarian mother and Sikh father, Sher-Gil’s life moved across Europe and India, shaping a unique artistic voice that blended Western techniques with Indian subjects.
Though her life was tragically cut short in 1941 at the age of 28, her work continues to inspire generations of artists. She became known for portraying everyday life, women, rural communities, and social realities with emotional depth and visual boldness.
Also Read: Priyanka Chopra Jonas to receive Global Vanguard Honor at Gold Gala 2026 in Los Angeles
read moreRiteish Deshmukh SLAMS Bageshwar Baba over Shivaji Maharaj comment: “Unacceptable and infuriating”
Actor Riteish Deshmukh has strongly reacted to controversial remarks made by spiritual leader Bageshwar Baba about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The statement triggered backlash online, with many expressing anger over the portrayal of the revered Maratha warrior king. Riteish, who is set to portray Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in his upcoming historical film Raja Shivaji, also joined the criticism and shared a powerful response on social media.
The controversy began after Bageshwar Baba claimed in a speech that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj had grown tired of fighting wars and once placed his crown before Ramdas Swami, asking him to take charge of the kingdom while he rested. The remarks were widely criticised by many who felt they misrepresented history and undermined Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy.
Responding to the issue, Riteish took to X, formerly Twitter, and posted a message in Marathi. Expressing his views as a devotee and admirer of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the actor strongly objected to what he described as distorted statements.
Translated into English, Riteish Deshmukh wrote that when someone spreads false and twisted claims about a beloved figure like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, it is unacceptable and deeply angering for every Shiv-bhakt and Shiv-premi. He added that attempts to diminish such a towering legacy would never succeed.
He further stated that just as the Sahyadri mountain ranges have stood strong for millions of years, the name of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj would continue to inspire generations for crores of years to come. He described the Maratha ruler as the pride of the Kshatriya lineage, the Lord of the Throne, and the Emperor of Emperors.
कोणीतरी येतो आणि आपल्या आराध्य दैवताबद्दल काहीतरी विकृत बरळतो, एक शिवप्रेमी-शिवभक्त म्हणून हे अमान्य आणि संतापजनक आहे. असले चौकटीत अडकवण्याचे फोल प्रयत्न काळाच्या उदरात गडप होतील. पण सह्याद्रीच्या पर्वतरांगा जशा लाखो वर्ष आधी होत्या तसंच ‘ते’ एकच नाव करोडो वर्ष भविष्यातही राहील.… — Riteish Deshmukh (@Riteishd) April 26, 2026
Meanwhile, the actor is preparing for the release of Raja Shivaji, one of the most anticipated historical dramas of the year. In the film, Riteish essays the role of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The project is backed by Jyoti Deshpande and Genelia Deshmukh under the Mumbai Film Company banner and presented by Jio Studios.
Scheduled to release in theatres on May 1, Raja Shivaji will focus on the early life of the legendary ruler, tracing his dream of Swarajya and his resistance against powerful empires. The film also features an ensemble cast including Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Vidya Balan, Bhagyashree, Mahesh Manjrekar, and Boman Irani.
Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Riteish Deshmukh explains cinema cannot be limited to one format after Dhurandhar success; says, “You cannot blind yourself to the changes”
read moreDug Dug trailer out: Ritwik Pareek’s debut explores faith, mystery and a "wish-granting" bike
A lost bike, a found belief system. The trailer of debutant filmmaker Ritwik Pareek’s Dug Dug offers a first glimpse into the film’s whimsical world— a comedy-mystery satire that playfully navigates faith, magic and logic. The trailer was unveiled by its four executive producers, Anurag Kashyap, Nikkhil Advani, Vikramaditya Motwane and Vasan Bala, who have come together to present the film.
“God only knows what games he plays,” opens Dug Dug, as a character recounts the death of a villager—setting the tone for what follows. The mystery deepens when the bike the man was riding goes missing from a police station, only to reappear at the exact spot where he died.
Inspired by true events, Dug Dug traces a bizarre phenomenon in a village where a deceased man’s motorbike is believed to grant wishes—provided devotees pray to it and offer alcohol. As word spreads and prayers begin to be “answered,” belief spirals into a full-blown, commercialised religion.
The trailer establishes the film’s whimsical, magical tone, unfolding through trippy, fantastical visuals shot by DOP Aditya S. Kumar, which complement Ritwik Pareek’s script. The film is slated to hit Indian screens on May 8.
Dug Dug is produced by Bottle Rocket Pictures, led by Prerna Pareek and Ritwik Pareek, and will be released in Indian theatres in association with Ranjan Singh’s Flip Films.
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Following its premiere at TIFF, Dug Dug screened at several international festivals, including the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles, MAMI Mumbai Film Festival, and the International Film Festival of Kerala.
The film stars Altaf Khan, Gaurav Soni, Yogendra Singh and Durga Lal Saini.
Also Read: Anurag Kashyap, Nikkhil Advani, Vikramaditya Motwane, Vasan Bala-backed Dug Dug locks May 8 India release
read moreShanaya Kapoor-Adarsh Gourav starrer Tu Yaa Main trends in 12 countries on Netflix Top 10
Actor Shanaya Kapoor, who made an impressive debut with Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan, followed it up with yet another standout performance this year—this time in a role vastly different from her first. Teaming up with director Bejoy Nambiar for Tu Yaa Main opposite Adarsh Gourav, Shanaya earned widespread appreciation for her portrayal of influencer Avnee, with audiences particularly praising her screen presence, performance range, and crackling chemistry with Adarsh.
One of her dialogues from the film—“Tu yedi ho gayi kya, bachi?”—has especially struck a chord online, quickly turning into a fan-favourite pop culture moment and finding its way into memes, reels, and internet conversations.
Following its theatrical run, Tu Yaa Main premiered on Netflix a few days ago and has continued to build momentum ever since. The film has been trending strongly on the platform, even reaching the No. 1 spot in India, while also charting in several international markets. Clips featuring Shanaya’s scenes have been widely shared across social media, resonating with both pop culture audiences and cinema enthusiasts alike, and drawing consistently positive reactions.
Even two weeks after its streaming debut, Tu Yaa Main remains in the Top 10 films across 12 countries, with love for the film—and especially for its lead performances—only continuing to grow.
What stands out most, however, is Shanaya Kapoor’s unconventional script journey. From the romantic intensity of Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan to the edgy, contemporary world of Tu Yaa Main, her choices reflect a willingness to experiment rather than follow a predictable launch blueprint. In an industry often driven by safe debut vehicles and formulaic career moves, Shanaya appears to be carving her own lane—breaking the launch playbook and choosing the road less travelled.
Also Read: Shanaya Kapoor shuts down age, height difference talk: “It’s not about proving anyone wrong”
read moreShraddha Kapoor, Nora Fatehi cleared in 2022 drugs case as police find no evidence: Report
Actors Shraddha Kapoor and Nora Fatehi are set to receive relief in a high-profile 2022 drugs case, with the Mumbai Police reportedly finding no evidence linking them to the alleged network. Social media personality Orhan Awatramani, popularly known as Orry, along with actor Siddhanth Kapoor and politician Zeeshan Siddique, are also expected to be cleared in the supplementary chargesheet.
The case dates back to August 2022, when alleged drug trafficker Mohammad Salim Mohammad Suhail Shaikh was arrested by Mumbai Police’s Crime Branch and Anti-Narcotics Cell. Mephedrone worth Rs 1.19 lakh was recovered during the operation. During interrogation, Shaikh claimed that he had supplied drugs at parties attended by several public figures, leading to multiple names being mentioned in the investigation.
In 2025, some of those named, including Shraddha Kapoor and Nora Fatehi, were questioned by the Anti-Narcotics Cell as part of the probe. However, according to an Indian Express report, investigators have not found any material evidence to establish a connection between these individuals and the alleged drug supply network.
A source quoted in the report stated that the police have completed their investigation and are preparing to file a supplementary chargesheet. “An initial chargesheet was filed against three persons, and a supplementary chargesheet will now be filed against two arrested accused and the other wanted accused. We do not have enough evidence to link the celebrities to the case so far,” the source said.
The development has effectively brought clarity to a case that had generated significant attention due to the involvement of well-known names from the film industry and public life. While the investigation continues against the accused individuals directly linked to the drug supply chain, the absence of evidence against the celebrities has led to their names being dropped from further proceedings.
Reacting to the update, Orhan Awatramani addressed the issue on social media. Sharing a screenshot of the news report, he wrote, “Where are all the clickbaiting jealous virgins who oversensationalised this and dragged my good name for weeks?” His response reflects the frustration expressed by those who were publicly linked to the case during its early stages.
Also Read: Siddhanth Kapoor questioned for five hours in Rs 252-crores drug case; likely to be summoned again
read moreEXCLUSIVE: After Bhooth Bangla and Haiwaan, Akshay Kumar-Priyadarshan to unite one more time for Tips Films’ next
Priyadarshan is on a roll and refuses to slow down. The veteran filmmaker has been working for more than 40 years and has been churning out films at regular intervals. Last week saw the release of Bhooth Bangla, which is doing decent business at the box office. He has also completed the shoot of Haiwaan, starring Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan. Priyadarshan has revealed that he’ll be directing two more films – one with Pankaj Tripathi and the other with Mohanlal. And now, it has come to light that the master filmmaker has secretly begun working on one more film.
A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Priyadarshan is putting together an exciting film and has signed Akshay Kumar for it. It’ll be a typical Priyan entertainer that’ll appeal to the youth and families alike.”
The source continued, “It’ll be produced by Tips Films and this will be the first time that the reputed banner will be working with Priyadarshan.” The untitled comic entertainer marks the second film of Akshay and Tips after Entertainment (2014).
As for Akshay Kumar and Priyadarshan, both have worked together in 7 films until now – Hera Pheri (2000), Garam Masala (2005), Bhagam Bhag (2006), Bhool Bhulaiyaa (2007), De Dana Dan (2009), Khatta Meetha (2010) and Bhooth Bangla. Haiwaan will be their eighth film together, while the movie with Tips will be their ninth outing. They are also committed to Hera Pheri 3 once the legal issues are resolved.
In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama during the promotions of Bhooth Bangla, Akshay Kumar praised Priyadarshan and highlighted how punctuality has always been central to their collaborations. He said, “This man is full of discipline. Full of discipline. And that is why we both get along very well. Our 7 o'clock shift starts at 7 o'clock. (By) 3 o'clock, pack-up happens. And life passes comfortably. No tension. He just needs a good producer who brings everything at the right time, and he needs an actor who comes at the right time.”
Also Read: Akshay Kumar and Vidya Balan head to Kerala for Anees Bazmee film schedule: “Hope the good luck charm of our jodi continues”
read moreAccused arrested months after Akshay Kumar spoke out on daughter’s online harassment
A case that first came to light through actor Akshay Kumar’s public disclosure last year has now seen a key breakthrough, with authorities confirming the first arrest in connection with an attempted sextortion involving his daughter.
The incident, which the actor had shared in October 2025 during a cyber-awareness event in Mumbai, involved his daughter Nitara, who was 13 at the time. Akshay Kumar had used the experience to highlight the risks children face on online gaming platforms and the importance of digital awareness.
Months later, in April 2026, police confirmed that an accused has been apprehended. The update was shared by Yashasvi Yadav, Additional Director General of Police, during a cyber-awareness session at R.D. National College.
Speaking about the case, Yadav said, “He (Akshay Kumar) had a very shocking story to share with us. He said that his own daughter was being sextorted. The girl was very brave and informed her parents. Through her parents, we received this information, and that is how we handled the case.”
Akshay Kumar had earlier detailed how the situation unfolded while his daughter was playing an online video game. Initially, the interaction appeared harmless, with polite exchanges from an unknown player. However, the conversation soon escalated when the individual began asking personal questions.
Recalling the moment, the actor had said, “My daughter was playing a video game... you are playing with an unknown stranger. When you are playing, you get a message saying, ‘Thank you, that was great’ or ‘You are doing so good’, very courteous messages... Suddenly, the person said, ‘Where are you from?’ She wrote, ‘Mumbai’. And then everything was normal again.”
The situation took a serious turn when the stranger asked about her gender and later made an inappropriate request. “Then a message came, ‘Are you male or female?’ She replied, ‘Female’. It went on. And then, he sent a message, ‘Can you send me a nude picture of yours?’ My daughter, she switched off the whole thing. She went and told my wife,” he had shared.
The actor had stressed the importance of awareness among children and parents, pointing out how such incidents often begin subtly before escalating. He said, “This is how things begin. This is also a part of cybercrime. People and children get carried away. Extortion money has to be given. There are many cases of suicides. In the digital world, it is very important that our children learn about this.”
Authorities have not yet disclosed further details about the accused or the ongoing investigation.
Also Read: Akshay Kumar and Vidya Balan head to Kerala for Anees Bazmee film schedule: “Hope the good luck charm of our jodi continues”
read moreKriti Sanon no longer CCO of Hyphen, skincare brand confirms decision
Actor-entrepreneur Kriti Sanon is no longer serving as the Chief Customer Officer of her skincare brand Hyphen, the company confirmed in a recent statement. The development comes nearly three years after the brand’s launch in 2023, during which Kriti had been closely associated with its positioning and outreach.
The announcement was made through Hyphen’s official social media handle on April 24. In its statement, the brand acknowledged the significance of the decision and described it as part of a broader transition. “This is not a statement we make lightly. After careful study, we believe that this should be addressed honestly. The road ahead represents a tremendous transition. Certain painful but important decisions were taken. With that, we publicly announce that Kriti Sanon is no longer functioning as our Chief Customer Officer,” the statement read.
The update quickly gained traction online, with users expressing a mix of surprise and curiosity about the move. Given Kriti Sanon’s visible involvement in the brand since its inception, the change has raised questions about what it could mean for the company’s future direction.
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Among those reacting to the news was entrepreneur Parul Gulati, who shared her perspective in support of the actor. “She was never a customer officer.... She is the brand herself…. 😍 we love @kritisanon way too much,” she commented, echoing sentiments expressed by several fans across social media platforms.
While the company has confirmed the leadership change, it has not provided additional details about the reasons behind the decision or what Kriti Sanon’s role, if any, will be going forward. The term “transition” mentioned in the statement suggests internal restructuring, though specifics remain undisclosed at this stage.
Also Read: Kriti Sanon opens up on success formula: “It’s always a combination of hard work, talent and destiny”
read moreEXCLUSIVE: Raja Shivaji is 3 hours 15 minutes long; joins elite club of Animal, Pushpa 2, Dhurandhar, Border 2; CBFC replaces child violence visual in Riteish Deshmukh-starrer
Until around two-and-a-half years ago, making a film with a runtime of over three hours was largely frowned upon. But that perception changed with Animal (2023). The Ranbir Kapoor-starrer was 203 minutes long and yet was accepted with open arms by the audience. Then came Pushpa 2 – The Rule (2024), which had a runtime of 200 minutes. Dhurandhar (2025) went one step ahead at 214 minutes, while Dhurandhar The Revenge (2026) clocked an even longer runtime of 229 minutes. In between, Border 2 (2026) also joined the league with a runtime of 199 minutes. Interestingly, all these films emerged as huge grossers. And now, Raja Shivaji is all set to join this coveted club.
Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learned that the historical drama completed its censor process yesterday, on April 24. As per the censor certificate, Raja Shivaji’s Marathi version is 195.05 minutes long. In other words, it has a duration of 3 hours, 15 minutes and 5 seconds. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) passed the film with a U/A 16+ certificate.
However, the film had to undergo a few modifications as per the advice of the Examining Committee (EC) of the CBFC. The makers had to modify the disclaimer with more clarity and stronger words along with a voiceover. They also had to add a clarification for selecting the title ‘Raja Shivaji’ for the film. The makers were also asked to submit proper documents for all the historical references used in the film and also submit a proper script as per the film's dialogues and songs.
Moreover, the CBFC instructed the producers to add specific dates for all key events in the film and also insert text slates for historical events.
Thankfully, there are just two minor cuts in Raja Shivaji. The visuals of a small boy's throat being slit were asked to be replaced with an appropriate shot. Secondly, the makers were asked to add audio for muted visuals.
Raja Shivaji stars Riteish Deshmukh in the role of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and he's joined by Genelia Deshmukh, Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Vidya Balan, Fardeen Khan, Bhagyashree, Sachin Khedekar, Amole Gupte, Jitendra Joshi and others. It is produced by Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia Deshmukh’s Mumbai Film Company and Jyoti Deshpande’s Jio Studios. It is all set to release in cinemas on May 1.
Also Read: Riteish Deshmukh starrer Raja Shivaji trailer gets shoutout from Akshay Kumar, Karan Johar, Nagraj Manjule and others
read moreSunny Deol's next with Excel Entertainment is a "high-concept project"
Sunny Deol is set to collaborate with Excel Entertainment for a new film that is currently in development. While the makers have not officially shared details about the project, early information suggests that it is being planned on a notable scale.
According to a source close to the development, “Sunny Deol is gearing up for a massive with Excel Entertainment, high-concept project that could redefine his big-screen presence. While the makers are keeping details tightly under wraps, insiders hint at an ambitious scale and powerful backing already in motion. The film has the potential to become one of his most impactful and talked-about ventures yet."
At present, the nature of the film, including its genre, storyline, and supporting cast, remains undisclosed. The production house is known for backing a range of projects across genres, and this collaboration adds another title to its upcoming slate.
Sunny Deol, who has continued to maintain a strong presence in Hindi cinema, is expected to bring his established screen persona to the project. Meanwhile, Excel Entertainment has built a reputation for producing films and series that balance commercial appeal with distinct storytelling.
Also Read: SCOOP: Sunny Deol-Aamir Khan-Rajkumar Santoshi’s Lahore 1947 likely to be renamed Batwara 1947
read moreKhalnayak Returns launch event: Sanjay Dutt CONFIRMS, "We are working on Vaastav 2"; makes an appeal to Rajkumar Hirani, "Raju, please make Munna Bhai 3!"
Actor-producer Sanjay Dutt, Aksha Kamboj, Executive Chairperson of Aspect Global (Aspect Entertainment), Subhash Ghai and Jyoti Deshpande of Jio Studios announced Khalnayak Returns at an event in Mumbai. Sanjay Dutt revealed that he’ll be producing the second part of the cult 1993 film under his banner, Three Dimension Motion Pictures.
A journalist asked that besides Khalnayak, the other characters of the actor who have achieved legendary status are Raghu from Vaastav (1999) and Murli Prasad Sharma from Munna Bhai. Hence, the journalist enquired if sequels to these films could be made.
Sanjay Dutt replied, “We are working on Vaastav 2. As for Munna Bhai, you’ll have to ask Raju Hirani. Raju, please make Munna Bhai again!”
At one point during the event, Subhash Ghai narrated, “With Sanju, I first worked in Vidhaata (1982), in which he played the grandson of Dilip Kumar. He was forced into acting by his father (Sunil Dutt). He was like ‘Main kyun actor banu? Mujhe motorcycle chalani hai’! He was enjoying life. He didn’t know he would have to work so much as an actor. He was hardly 20 at that time. I observed him and felt ‘Yeh bechara phas gaya’! But somehow, he managed to work with Dilip saab. Slowly, he realized that he needed to take this career very seriously. That’s how he started getting better at this craft. I could see his progress with each passing film like Sadak (1991), Saajan (1993), etc. I was like ‘Yeh ab serious actor ban gaya hai’.”
Subhash Ghai continued, “When I started working on Khalnayak, the news spread in the industry. Many stars met with me and expressed interest in doing the film. But I told them, ‘I have an actor in mind already’. I invited Sanju and narrated the story. He told me, ‘Sir, I trust you. We are doing this film’.”
Sanjay Dutt raised laughs as he corrected, “Subhas ji, you never narrated the story. You just told me, ‘Yeh film tujhe karni hai’!”
Also Read: Ballu is back! Sanjay Dutt announces Khalnayak Returns; teaser gets massive response at launch event
read moreBREAKING: Ballu is back! Sanjay Dutt announces Khalnayak Returns; teaser gets massive response at launch event
Actor-producer Sanjay Dutt’s Three Dimension Motion Pictures and Aksha Kamboj, Executive Chairperson of Aspect Global (Aspect Entertainment), invited the media to announce their first-ever joint venture. The project was kept under wraps until the event, where it was finally revealed to be the sequel to one of Dutt’s most loved films, Khalnayak (1993), titled KhalNayak Returns.
The event began with Aksha Kamboj talking about her production house and its association with Sanjay Dutt, before inviting attendees to turn their attention to the screen.
Moments later, the intro teaser of KhalNayak Returns was unveiled, receiving a thunderous response from journalists. Sanjay Dutt looked dashing, and the use of the iconic Khalnayak theme added to the excitement.
Also present at the event were Maanayata Dutt and Jyoti Deshpande of Jio Studios, which is also backing KhalNayak Returns.
Also Read: New promo of Sanjay Dutt starrer Aakhri Sawal explores what happened on December 6, 1992, watch
read moreAamir Khan and Junaid Khan support Deven Bhojani ahead of Ek Din and Dhabkaaro clash
Aamir Khan Productions’ upcoming film Ek Din is steadily building strong anticipation among audiences. Positioned as a tender and heartfelt love story, the film has already struck a chord with viewers through its captivating trailer and soulful music. As the film nears its release, Aamir Khan and Junaid Khan stepped out to support Deven Bhojani for his upcoming Gujarati film Dhabkaaro, which is releasing on the same day.
With Deven Bhojani’s Gujarati film Dhabkaaro set to release alongside Ek Din on May 1, Aamir Khan and Junaid Khan extended their support by meeting the actor. It is indeed a humble and kind gesture from Aamir and Junaid to support another film releasing on the same day.
Aamir Khan and Deven Bhojani began their careers together, having performed in their first play side by side. They also appeared together in the film Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikander.
Produced under the banner of Aamir Khan Productions, Ek Din stars Sai Pallavi and Junaid Khan. The film is directed by Sunil Pandey and produced by Aamir Khan, Mansoor Khan, and Aparna Purohit. The film is set to release in theaters on May 1, 2026.
Also Read: Aamir Khan launches Ek Din Ki Mehfil: Singers across India get chance to perform live before him, Sai Pallavi and Junaid Khan
read moreMichael becomes FIRST non-dubbed Hollywood film to screen at Raj Mandir, Jaipur
Universal Pictures India (distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures) announces a landmark moment for cinema in India as Michael, the spectacular tribute to the life and legacy of Michael Jackson, arrives at the iconic Raj Mandir Cinema in Jaipur for a special limited run, marking the first time a Hollywood film has screened at the celebrated venue.
Known as Cinema Ka Mandir, the Temple of Cinema, Raj Mandir has stood since 1976 as one of India's most beloved and storied theatres. Home to some of the grandest moments in Hindi cinema, it now welcomes the King of Pop to its 73 by 35 foot screen, equipped with Dolby Atmos sound, for two nights only.
Starring Jaafar Jackson in a powerful debut performance, Michael captures the artistry, ambition, and extraordinary journey of one of the greatest entertainers the world has ever known. Across India, audiences have turned every screening into a celebration, with fans responding to the film's music, nostalgia, and emotional depth with remarkable warmth. The arrival of Michael at Raj Mandir is a meeting of two icons. One is the greatest entertainer the world has ever seen. The other is the greatest screen India has ever built.
Speaking about this collaboration, Pankaj Surana, Director, Raj Mandir Cinema, said, “It is a pleasure for us at Raj Mandir Cinema to collaborate with Universal Pictures India. in presenting Michael, a celebration of the musical genius of Michael Jackson. His music has touched millions of lives, including mine, and we are happy that our screen can play a small role in bringing this story to audiences in a truly immersive, larger-than-life manner it deserves.”
Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Michael crosses 1 lakh ticket sales mark for opening weekend; paid previews set to open at Rs. 1 cr plus; Hyderabad’s Prasads and ALLU Cinemas in overdrive
read moreKING and Ruaa Kayy team up for Lukkhe song 'Jee Lenge,' watch
KING and Ruaa Kayy have come together for the romantic track 'Jee Lenge', the latest release from the soundtrack of the upcoming Prime Original series Lukkhe. Unveiled by Prime Video India and Warner Music India on April 24, the song introduces a softer and more intimate mood to the album following the earlier high-energy track 'Bulletproof.'
Composed by KING and Bharg Kale, with music production by Bharg and lyrics penned by KING, 'Jee Lenge' reflects a restrained and emotionally layered soundscape. The track has been developed under the guidance of Music Supervisor Mohan Nerkar, who helms the overall soundscape of the series and co-supervised the song alongside Bhavya Anand and Rajrishi Murthi. Together, the collaborators shape a listening experience that highlights vulnerability and emotional connection.
Within the narrative of the series, 'Jee Lenge' captures the evolving relationship between Palak Tiwari’s character Sanober and Lakshvir Singh Saran’s character Lucky. The song reflects the comfort two people find in each other during uncertain phases of life. Positioned as a quieter emotional moment within the larger story, the track adds depth to the series’ musical landscape while strengthening its romantic thread.
Directed by Himank Gaur, the series is produced by Vipul D Shah and Rajesh Bahl under the banners of Optimystix Entertainment and White Guerrilla LLP. The show is created and executive produced by Agrim Joshi and Debojit Das Purkayastha.
Lukkhe features Raashii Khanna in a lead role alongside KING, who makes his acting debut with the series. The cast also includes Palak Tiwari in her streaming debut and Lakshvir Singh Saran, along with Nakul Roshan Sahdev, Kritika Bharadwaj, Shivankit Parihar, Yograj Singh and Ayesha Raza in supporting roles.
With 'Jee Lenge' now available across music streaming platforms, the track adds another emotional layer to the build-up ahead of the series’ premiere. Lukkhe is scheduled to stream exclusively in Hindi on Prime Video across India and more than 240 countries and territories worldwide starting May 8, marking the platform’s latest youth-focused original release.
Also Read: King calls ‘Bulletproof’ track a personal milestone ahead of Lukkhe
read moreSCOOP: Pati Patni Aur Woh Do worldwide distribution rights sold to Zee Studios for Rs. 35 crores
Ayushmann Khurrana is teaming up with Sara Ali Khan, Rakul Preet Singh and Wamiqa Gabbi in the Mudassar Aziz directed comic caper, Pati Patni Aur Woh Do. The teaser of the film dropped earlier in the week, followed by the song, which has opened the world of chaos to the cinema going audiences. As the comic caper arrives on May 15, 2026, Bollywood Hungama has some exclusive exciting details on the distribution deal of the film.
According to reliable sources, the T Series Production is being released globally by Zee Studios. "Zee Studios has acquired the worldwide distribution rights of Pati Patni Aur Woh Do for a sum of Rs. 35 crores. While the all India rights have been valued at Rs. 27 crores, the overseas rights have gone for a sum of Rs. 8 crores," a trade source shared with Bollywood Hungama.
We hear that Zee Studios is all set to give the film a wide global release, and the conversations for showcasing has already begun. "It's a solo release, and a family entertainer. The exhibitors too are excited to exhibit the film at their centers. The deal is reasonable, and the distributors will break even on a business of Rs. 65 crores in India," the source shared.
Also Read: When Ayushmann does comedy, audiences always show up! – Ayushmann Khurrana looks to continue his successful run with family entertainer Pati Patni Aur Woh Do
read moreDinesh Hingoo is financially fine, family clarifies; Amitabh Bachchan’s office, Boney Kapoor and Rakesh Roshan offer assistance
Yesterday, a two-month-old video of Dinesh Hingoo went viral. In the video, a fan is seen approaching the veteran actor. The actor tells the fan, “I am 86 years old. I go out sometimes to work. I fell down recently and got injured. It is fine now but I need money to go to the doctor. Doctor kabhi 5000 Rs mangte hai toh kabhi Rs 6000.” The video circulated widely in the industry and sparked concern about Dinesh Hingoo’s financial condition. Immediately, several prominent film personalities came forward and offered help.
However, today, it has come to light that the actor is doing fine financially. This was revealed by senior industry member, Rajesh Vasani of Paras Publicity. He wrote on his Facebook post, “Following last night’s posts circulating on Inshorts and Moneycontrol, which I had also shared within the industry, I felt it was important to verify the facts. I managed to get in touch with Mrs Jamuna Dinesh Hingoo through Aruna Irani. She clarified that the family is well-settled, with two sons and grandchildren, and he’s doing absolutely fine. It appears there may have been a misunderstanding in the reports. She expressed her gratitude to everyone for their concern and for remembering Dinesh bhai and his contributions.”
Rajesh Vasani then opened up about Dinesh Hingoo’s wife, “It’s also worth noting that Jamunaben herself is a respected Gujarati stage artiste, known for her work in several plays, especially Prit Piyu Ne Panetar, where she famously portrayed the Japanese character, Miss Mikotaka.”
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Finally, Rajesh Vasani praised the senior industry members for immediately coming forward to help Dinesh Hingoo, “I also thank and acknowledge everyone who instantly came forward to support the cause, such as Rakesh Roshan ji, Boney Kapoor ji and many others, including our association. There was even a call from Amitabh Bachchan’s office offering support. However, after verifying the facts with his wife, I conveyed my thanks and informed them that the family is well-settled and no assistance is required.”
read moreIs Cyrus Sahukar's flamboyant film star character Maqsood in Matka King inspired by Mehmood?
The period drama, Matka King, dropped on Amazon Prime Video on April 17, and has been loved for its subject, dramatic scenes, ensemble cast and some clapworthy scenes. Since its release, viewers have been drawing parallels with certain characters shown in the film to real-life people. A lot has been spoken about the lead protagonist, Brij Bhatti, and whether he’s inspired by Ratan Khatri, the gambling kingpin who was known as ‘Matka King’ in real life. 5 days ago, Bollywood Hungama wrote that Viineet Kumar Siingh's cameo as gangster Darab Ahmed Wadkar appears to be inspired by fugitive gangster Dawood Ibrahim.
Matka King also features a vivacious film actor named Maqsood, played by Cyrus Sahukar. Interestingly, this character seems heavily inspired by the versatile actor Mehmood. His look, especially the neatly trimmed pencil moustache, immediately made viewers draw parallels with the Padosan (1968) and Bombay To Goa (1972) actor.
Matka King is the story of Brij Bhatti, a poor man who invents the gambling game of ‘Matka’. In no time, ‘Matka’ becomes popular among the poor as it offers them a chance to win big money and, more importantly, Brij promises honesty in the system. Meanwhile, Brij falls in love with a rich Parsi widow, Gulrukh (Kritika Kamra). She popularizes ‘Matka’ among the rich and elite. While partying with her, Brij meets Maqsood and the two become close friends. On Maqsood’s advice, Brij even invests money in the latter’s upcoming film, Bharat Ka Beta. By the time the film’s premiere takes place, Brij has gotten entangled in a legal mess.
A memorable scene in the web series unfolds during the premiere of Bharat Ka Beta. Brij waits backstage with the cast and crew, expecting to be acknowledged. However, Maqsood calls the actress, the villain and the producers on stage, but leaves Brij out. A visibly disheartened Brij chooses not to watch the film and instead quietly smokes a cigarette in the theatre lobby, nursing the humiliation.
Also Read: Matka King emerges as Prime Video’s most-watched new series in two years; ranks #1 in 17 countries in its opening week
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