Bollywood
Zareen Khan’s mother Parveen Khan passes away at 65 in Mumbai
Zareen Khan’s mother, Parveen Khan, passed away on Wednesday morning, April 8, at the age of 65 in Mumbai after battling illness for some time. The news of her demise was confirmed by the actress’s team.
According to an official statement issued by her team, Parveen Khan “departed peacefully to her heavenly abode on the 8th of April.” She is survived by her daughters Zareen Khan and Sana Khan.
Parveen Khan’s funeral took place later the same day at the Versova Muslim Kabrastan in Andheri, Mumbai.
In recent months, Zareen Khan had been sharing updates about her mother’s health on social media and had requested fans to keep her in their prayers during her hospitalisation. Earlier this year, the actress had revealed that she would not be celebrating her Islamic birthday as her mother was admitted to hospital at the time.
Sharing an emotional note on February 23, she wrote, “It's the 5th of Ramadan today which is my Islamic Birthday. Those who know me closely know how much I love my Birthdays. This year too I had plans of celebrating this one in a certain way but unfortunately that's not going to happen as my Mom is hospitalised.”
As of now, Zareen Khan has not issued a separate public statement following her mother’s passing.
Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Zareen Khan speaks on her independent travel philosophy; says, “If no one comes along, it’s still great”
read moreAllu Arjun and Atlee's next titled Raaka; makers hold back character reveal in new poster tease
In a landmark moment for one of the most anticipated cinematic collaborations, the makers of AA22 x A6 have officially unveiled the title of the film, Raaka, today at 11 AM, marking Allu Arjun’s 44th birthday with a powerful announcement.
Accompanying the title reveal is a striking title poster that offers a glimpse into the film’s world — dark, intense, and creature-like in its visual tonality. The imagery sets the stage for a larger-than-life narrative, hinting at a universe that is both formidable and deeply intriguing.
Positioned as a grand fantasy-action entertainer, Raaka is envisioned as a global cinematic spectacle, designed to resonate with audiences across markets. Backed by Sun Pictures and mounted on a massive scale, the film aims to blend scale, storytelling, and cutting-edge cinematic craft for an international audience.
Allu Arjun is set to be seen in a never-seen-before avatar, marking a significant departure from his previous roles and showcasing him in a powerful, transformative light. Known for presenting his actors in a completely new dimension, filmmaker Atlee once again raises the bar — crafting what promises to be a defining role in the actor’s career.
Atlee, celebrated for creating expansive, larger-than-life cinematic worlds, brings his distinct vision to Raaka, building a universe that seamlessly blends fantasy, action, and emotion. The scale and ambition of the film reflect a storytelling approach that is rooted in Indian cinema while aiming to connect with a global audience.
Director Atlee says, “Raaka isn’t just a film… it’s a part of me I’ve carried for years. For 18 years, I held on to one idea, never letting it fade. It tested me, shaped me, and stayed with me through everything. And honestly… this is just the beginning.”
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Sun Pictures (@sunpictures)
Sun Pictures says, "Raaka is a collaboration born of the highest ambitions in Indian cinema. Sun Pictures is privileged to bring together the singular storytelling of Atlee and the iconic stature of Allu Arjun in a project built for the world. We believe this will not only redefine the scale of what we create, but also affirm Indian cinema's rightful place in global entertainment."
This film marks a landmark collaboration between Sun Pictures, Icon Star Allu Arjun, and blockbuster filmmaker Atlee — bringing together three of Indian cinema’s most influential creative forces for a project designed for the international stage.
With the title now revealed, Raaka sets the tone for a cinematic spectacle that promises to be bold, immersive, and truly path-breaking on a global scale.
Also Read: Allu Arjun to unveil AA22xA6 title poster on birthday; Atlee directorial sparks massive buzz
read moreShah Rukh Khan declines cameo in Rajinikanth’s Jailer 2 to focus on King? Here’s what we know!
Shah Rukh Khan has politely declined a cameo appearance in Jailer 2, starring Rajinikanth, as he is currently focusing entirely on his upcoming film King. For the unversed, the makers of Jailer 2 had approached Shah Rukh Khan for a cameo. While the actor was open to the idea initially, he eventually stepped away from the appearance due to scheduling priorities and his commitment to maintaining exclusivity around his look and presence in King.
A source quoted in a Pinkvilla report said, “The makers were keen to have Shah Rukh Khan onboard for a 5-day cameo, and he was absolutely open to the idea. However, his current focus remains firmly on King, which holds immense importance for him, especially as it marks his daughter Suhana Khan’s big-screen launch.”
The source further added that Shah Rukh Khan requested whether the release timeline of Jailer 2 could be aligned after King, as he wanted his on-screen appearance in the latter to remain exclusive. “He has a certain look in King, and he doesn’t want to have the same in any other film before,” the source said.
The report also mentioned that Jailer 2 is currently being planned for an August release window, whereas King is scheduled to arrive in theatres in December 2026. Due to the difference in timelines, both sides reportedly decided to move ahead amicably without the cameo.
Despite stepping away from the appearance, Shah Rukh Khan is said to continue sharing a warm equation with Rajinikanth. According to the report, he personally spoke to the veteran actor and conveyed his admiration, while expressing interest in collaborating in the future under the right circumstances.
“The makers were looking at an August release, ahead of King in December, and given the differing timelines, both parties mutually and amicably decided to part ways on this cameo. Shah Rukh Khan has also personally spoken to Rajinikanth and conveyed his admiration, assuring him that he would be happy to collaborate, be it a cameo or a full-fledged role at a more suitable time in the future,” the source added.
Directed by Siddharth Anand, King features Shah Rukh Khan alongside Suhana Khan and also stars Deepika Padukone, Abhishek Bachchan, Anil Kapoor, Jackie Shroff and Arshad Warsi in key roles. The film is expected to release in theatres in December 2026.
Meanwhile, Jailer 2, written and directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, is reportedly nearing completion. Rajinikanth had earlier confirmed in April 2026 that the film is close to wrapping shoot and has entered its final phase of post-production. The makers are now said to be considering another major star for the cameo role originally offered to Shah Rukh Khan.
Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan treated daughter Suhana like a co-actor on King sets, reveals Saurabh Shukla
read moreAmeesha Patel slams Zakir Khan's 'Jealous Bollywood' claim: 'SRK, Salman, Sunny have given 25+ hits'
Actor Ameesha Patel has responded strongly to comedian Zakir Khan’s remarks suggesting that Bollywood was “jealous” of the success of Dhurandhar: The Revenge, asserting that the industry has always celebrated major achievements rather than envied them.
The controversy began after Zakir Khan, while hosting an awards event, joked that the film’s massive box office performance had unsettled sections of the industry. His comments quickly drew reactions online and within film circles. Reacting to the statement, Ameesha dismissed the notion of jealousy and called out what she described as unnecessary negativity. “Dude, stop spreading negativity! Film industry has valued and respected Dhurandhar,” she said, emphasising that the film has received widespread appreciation from peers.
DUDE-Stop spreading NEGATIVITY!film industry has valued n respected DHURANDHAR!Superstars like SRK,SALMAN,SUNNY , HRITHIK,AJAY et have given not just 1 but 25 plus mega hits n will continue to do so👍CHILL-GADAR bahut saalon se sabne already machai hain aur aage bhi machaayenge👍 pic.twitter.com/MqOD74LH83 — ameesha patel (@ameesha_patel) April 7, 2026
She further highlighted the long-standing legacy of Bollywood’s biggest stars to counter the claim. “Superstars like SRK, Salman, Sunny, Hrithik, Ajay have given not just one but 25-plus mega hits and will continue to do so,” Ameesha added, underscoring that success is not new to the industry. Referencing the sustained impact of past blockbusters, she remarked, “Gadar bahut saalon se sabne already machai hain aur aage bhi machaayenge,” reinforcing her point that multiple generations of actors have consistently delivered major hits.
Ameesha’s response comes amid ongoing discussions around Dhurandhar: The Revenge, which has emerged as a significant box office success and sparked conversations about competition and recognition within Bollywood. While Zakir’s comments were intended as humour, they appear to have struck a chord, prompting industry figures to clarify their stance.
Also Read: Ameesha Patel faces non-bailable warrant over alleged breach of contract case; Gadar 2 actress REACTS!
read moreKartik Aaryan takes legal route to protect his identity, flags online misuse
Actor Kartik Aaryan has approached the Bombay High Court, alleging unauthorised commercial use of his personality across multiple online platforms, in a move that underscores growing concerns over digital misuse of celebrity identities.
According to reports, the actor has filed an intellectual property (IP) suit seeking protection of his name, image, likeness, and other identifiable attributes, which he claims are being used without consent. The plea targets several online platforms as well as unidentified individuals, often referred to as “John Doe” parties, accused of exploiting his persona for commercial gain.
In his petition, Kartik has sought a permanent injunction to restrain entities from using his identity in advertisements, merchandise, or digital content. He has also urged the court to direct platforms to take down such material and disclose details of those responsible. The actor’s legal team has argued that the misuse extends to emerging digital formats, including manipulated content and AI-generated material, raising concerns around privacy and publicity rights in an increasingly tech-driven ecosystem. The plea stresses that such unauthorised usage not only violates his rights but also risks misleading the public.
The case is expected to be heard shortly, with Kartik seeking urgent relief to prevent further exploitation of his personality. This development comes amid a broader trend of celebrities moving court to safeguard their personality rights against misuse on social media and e-commerce platforms. Courts in India have, in recent months, taken note of such concerns, particularly in cases involving deepfakes, fake endorsements, and unauthorised digital reproductions.
Also Read: Kartik Aaryan brings home Mercedes-Benz V-Class worth up to Rs 1.7 crore
read moreEXCLUSIVE: Sooraj Barjatya's next with Ayushmann Khurrana and Sharvari expected to wrap shoot within a month
Bollywood Hungama has been at the forefront in bringing news about the much-awaited film of Sooraj Barjatya’s next, Yeh Prem Mol Liya. The latest update is that the shoot is nearing completion, and Sooraj will proclaim ‘It’s a wrap’ on the film within a month’s time.
A source told Bollywood Hungama, “The shoot of Yeh Prem Mol Liya is progressing very smoothly. A major chunk of filming is over, and now only one week of shooting remains.”
The source further said, “The final schedule will take place either in the last week of April or in the first week of May after which it’ll be a wrap for Yeh Prem Mol Liya. Both leading actors of the film – Ayushmann Khurrana and Sharvari – will be part of this schedule.”
The family entertainer is produced by Rajshri Productions and Mahaveer Jain Films. A source had told Bollywood Hungama in October 2025, “After Uunchai (2022), Sooraj Barjatya’s last film, Rajshri Productions decided to join hands once again with Mahaveer Jain Films. Both Sooraj Barjatya and Mahaveer Jain had a wonderful time working together on Uunchai and hence, they decided to collaborate once more for the upcoming film.”
Besides Ayushmann Khurrana and Sharvari, Sooraj Barjatya’s film also stars Shaad Randhawa, Anupam Kher, Seema Pahwa, and Supriya Pathak in pivotal roles. In February, we were the first to report that Ayushmann Khurrana and Sharvari shot for the film at Goregaon railway station in Mumbai.
In December 2025, Shaad Randhawa, who left a mark with his performances in the 2025 sleeper successes, Saiyaara and Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat, revealed that he had bagged the film. In January this year, he exclusively told Bollywood Hungama, “It is a film that only Sooraj can make. It’s about family, values and romance. There’s dada ji, dadi ji, nani, bua – it’s that kind of a film (smiles). It touches upon relationships; I don’t think anybody knows relationships better than Sooraj ji. The film also tells a beautiful love story. I am sure everybody would be looking forward to the film because we have been missing that kind of film. We haven’t seen a family entertainer in the longest time.”
Also Read: No immediate reunion for Salman Khan and Sooraj Barjatya, says Director
read moreSalman Khan moves NCDRC after Jaipur consumer court issues bailable warrants in Rajshree Elaichi ad case
Actor Salman Khan has approached the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC), alleging that the Jaipur District Consumer Commission acted unfairly in proceedings related to a complaint over his endorsement of “Rajshree Elaichi.”
The development comes after the district commission issued bailable warrants against Khan for allegedly failing to comply with its earlier direction to stop misleading advertisements connected to the product. Salman Khan claims orders were not served to him Appearing for the actor, Senior Advocate Ravi Prakash argued before the NCDRC that certified copies of the district commission’s orders were not provided to Khan, even though those same orders were already circulating in media reports. According to the plea, coercive steps were taken against the actor despite him not receiving official copies of the orders.
The petition also stated that the interim order passed earlier in the case “was not in the knowledge of the petitioner and never served,” adding that penal proceedings under Section 72 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 should not have been initiated without proper service. Case relates to complaint over Rajshree Elaichi advertisement The matter stems from a complaint filed in December 2025 by advocate Yogendra Singh Badiyal before the Jaipur District Consumer Commission against Rajshree Pan Masala and Salman Khan, who was named as Opposite Party No. 2 in his role as brand ambassador. The complaint alleged that advertisements for “Rajshree Elaichi” were effectively surrogate promotions for pan masala and amounted to misleading advertising under the Consumer Protection Act.
On January 6, 2026, the district commission passed an interim order directing the respondents to refrain from misleading advertisements until they filed their reply. According to Khan’s plea, this order was passed ex parte and without prior notice to him. Bailable warrants issued in contempt proceedings The complainant later alleged that the interim order had been violated after a hoarding featuring Salman Khan appeared in public, following which a contempt application was filed under Section 72 of the Act. On January 15, 2026, the district commission issued bailable warrants against Khan in connection with the contempt proceedings. The actor challenged this decision before the Rajasthan State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, but the State Commission dismissed his appeal on March 16, 2026 and upheld the district commission’s order. Actor raises concern over direction to form Special Task Force During the hearing before the NCDRC, Khan’s counsel also argued that after issuing bailable warrants, the district commission directed the formation of a Special Task Force to secure the actor’s presence. According to the plea, such directions were unusual in consumer proceedings and reflected a disproportionate approach.
The NCDRC took note of concerns raised about certified copies of orders not being provided to the parties while appearing in media reports. At the same time, the Commission observed that its jurisdiction remains defined by statute and cannot extend beyond the framework of the law.
Also Read: SCOOP: Salman Khan’s Maatrubhumi misses May window; June release on the cards
read moreRaj Kundra breaks silence with explosive post: “Enough!! I will not be judged by noise, only by justice”
After maintaining a largely low profile in the face of prolonged scrutiny, Raj Kundra has publicly addressed the controversies surrounding him, issuing a strong statement on social media. The businessman, who has often been in the spotlight due to both his personal life and legal challenges, took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his stance, signalling a shift from silence to direct engagement.
In his post, Kundra wrote, “Justice delayed is justice denied. I’ve stayed silent, I’ve respected the system, and endured media trials, speculation & trolling. Enough!! I want the truth through a fair and final verdict. If found guilty by a court of law, I will face every consequence. Until then, I will not be judged by noise, only by justice. Raj Kundra.”
Justice delayed is justice denied. I’ve stayed silent, respected the system, and endured media trials, speculation & trolling.
Enough!!
I want the truth through a fair & final verdict.
If found guilty by a court of law, I will face every consequence. Until then, I will not…
— Raj Kundra (@onlyrajkundra) April 6, 2026
The statement marks one of his most direct responses to the public discourse surrounding his cases. For years, Kundra had refrained from addressing criticism in detail, opting instead to let legal proceedings take their course. However, his latest message suggests growing frustration with what he describes as “media trials” and online speculation.
Kundra has been dealing with multiple legal matters over the past few years. Most recently, in February 2026, he was granted bail by a special PMLA court in connection with a money laundering case linked to an alleged Bitcoin Ponzi scheme. Investigating authorities have claimed that he received a significant amount of cryptocurrency from the alleged mastermind for a failed mining project, while Kundra has maintained that his role was limited.
In addition to this, Kundra and his wife, Shilpa Shetty, are also facing a cheating case filed by the Economic Offences Wing (EOW), involving allegations tied to a financial transaction linked to their former business venture. The matter remains under legal consideration.
These developments come in the backdrop of the 2021 case that had drawn widespread attention, following which Kundra had spent time in judicial custody before being granted bail. Since then, the businessman has largely avoided detailed public commentary on the issues.
With his latest statement, Kundra appears to be seeking closure through the judicial process rather than ongoing public debate. By calling for a “fair and final verdict,” he has made it clear that he intends to rely on the courts to determine the outcome, even as discussions around the cases continue in the public domain.
Also Read: Raj Kundra gets relief from Bombay High Court in dispute over Rajasthan Royals stake
read moreHai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai: Tips Films re-enters distribution with Varun Dhawan starrer
In a significant industry move, Tips Films has announced its strategic re-entry into the film distribution business. The banner will kickstart its new phase with the release of its in-house production, Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, a commercial entertainer headlined by Varun Dhawan.
The film also stars Mrunal Thakur and Pooja Hegde in leading roles, with a supporting ensemble that includes Maniesh Paul, Mouni Roy, and Kubbra Sait. Directed by veteran filmmaker David Dhawan, the project is positioned as a quintessential Bollywood family entertainer, blending comedy, romance, and mass appeal.
With this move, Tips Films is not only backing its own content but also strengthening its foothold across the value chain of filmmaking and exhibition. The makers have confirmed a robust and comprehensive distribution strategy, aimed at ensuring the film reaches audiences across the country. Leveraging its established network across domestic circuits, the company is planning a wide theatrical rollout that targets both urban multiplexes and mass-market single screens.
Speaking on the announcement, Kumar Taurani, Tips Films, said, "At Tips Films, we are happy to bring this family entertainer to audiences across every corner of India. Our nationwide distribution strategy ensures that no theatre-goer misses the opportunity to experience this film. We are confident that the film will resonate strongly with audiences and deliver a solid box office performance"
Known for his flair for high-energy comedy and crowd-pleasing narratives, David Dhawan returns to familiar territory with this venture. The film is expected to carry his signature style, marked by vibrant storytelling, situational humor, and engaging performances. Coupled with a strong music album—often a hallmark of Tips Films productions—the project is designed to appeal to a wide demographic, including family audiences.
Industry observers note that the film’s release timing could further boost its prospects. Slated for the prime pre-summer window, a period traditionally favourable for romantic entertainers, Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai is well positioned to capitalize on audience footfall and deliver commercially.
With a popular star cast, experienced direction, and now a self-driven distribution strategy, the film represents a key step in Tips Films’ expansion plans, as it aims to make a strong impact both on-screen and at the box office.
Also Read: Mrunal Thakur wraps dubbing for ‘Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai’, film set for June 12 release
read moreKailash Kher explains ‘Lakeer Ka Fakeer’ remark amid meme frenzy, says he’s learnt to laugh along
Singer Kailash Kher has responded to a viral meme based on one of his past interviews, where his remarks and expressions have been widely circulated online. The clip, particularly his use of the phrase “lakeer ka fakeer,” has gained traction across social media, often in a humorous context.
Addressing the chatter, Kher clarified that his comments stem from a deeper cultural perspective. “My point was asking people ‘How are you’ is such a waste of time. Kitna bekar lagta hai. The other person, too, like a parrot, is forced to say ‘I’m fine.’ According to our culture, we greet people, saying pranam or namaskar and end it there. It’s all frivolous conversation and has to be called out,” he said. He further explained that his statements were intended to encourage more mindful and meaningful communication, rather than routine exchanges. The singer suggested that everyday interactions often become mechanical, losing their authenticity over time.
Reacting to the meme culture around the clip, Kher acknowledged that his serious demeanor sometimes makes him an easy target for internet humour. “Being a spiritual person, at times my expressions come across more serious than intended, and memers pick those bits,” he shared, adding that he has learned to take it in stride. Kher also reiterated the thought behind his now-viral phrase. “Half the world has turned into lakeer ka fakeer, leading mundane lives. There are very few who are self-aware. But I’ve learnt to laugh along and enjoy with people on the internet,” he said.
The phrase, commonly used to describe someone who follows set patterns without questioning them, has since become a popular reference point online.
Known for his distinct blend of Sufi and folk music, Kher remains a prominent figure in the industry. His response highlights how public figures today navigate viral trends, where serious reflections can often take on a life of their own in the digital space.
Also Read: Sonu Nigam, Sukhwinder Singh, Kailash Kher and Salim-Sulaiman to perform at Subhash Ghai’s Cadence Music Festival 2026
read moreMatka King trailer launch: Gulshan Grover reveals Akshay Kumar, Shah Rukh Khan, Varun Dhawan were intrigued by the show’s title; opens up on his failed ‘Al Pacino’ moment: “Maine poori unit ke saamne kapde change kiye”
Vijay Varma, Kritika Kamra, Sai Tamhankar, Gulshan Grover, Siddharth Jadhav, Bhupendra Jadawat, Jamie Lever, Girish Kulkarni, Simran Ashwini, director Nagraj Manjule, producer Siddharth Roy Kapur, writer Abhay Pannu and Nikhil Madhok, Head of Indian Originals at Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios, attended the trailer launch of their web series, Matka King, in Mumbai. Gulshan Grover stole the show with his arresting presence and mass-appealing quotes.
He said, “I have always maintained that ‘Sunta main kisi ki nahin, manta main kisi ki nahin’. But for the first time, I met a fascinating director. Throughout the shoot of the show, I just listened to him. When you watch Matka King, you’ll realize how this director has created a beautiful web series with the amazing participation of Amazon Prime Video, the writers and the producers.”
He continued, “I don’t know if I can share this. One day, I felt ‘Yeh director mujhe same kapde kyun pehna raha hai?’. That day, we were shooting a scene of me in a government office. I had this logic that I should get dressed in the best way. I convinced the costume person to give me a different set of clothes. I wore those clothes. I looked like Al Pacino!”
He further said, “Nagraj ji looked at me and asked, ‘Yeh kapde pehnna chahte ho aap?’. I reasoned, ‘Yes, I am visiting a government office. I am a big man. I am the asli Matka King’. I could sense that something didn’t go right with him. He categorically told me, ‘Mera mann tha ki aap wohi kapde pehene’ (the one he wore before). I swear to God, I didn’t leave the set. Maine poori unit ke saamne kapde change kiye. I wore the old clothes. This is the respect I have for his creativity.”
At a later stage in the event, Gulshan Grover revealed, “There are various elements that would entertain you, get you thinking and it's set in a very interesting world. Day before yesterday, I had dinner with Shatrughan Sinha ji, Rakesh Roshan ji, Shashi Ranjan, Anu Ranjan etc. Often, when you meet an actor, he’s asked, ‘What are you working on nowadays?’. I told him, ‘On April 17, Matka King will release on Amazon Prime’. Everyone got intrigued by the show’s title. The next question was, ‘Who is the director?’. I replied, ‘Nagraj Manjule’. I mistakenly mentioned his film’s name as Shararat. Anu Ranjan immediately corrected me and said that it’s called Sairat (2016). This shows how everyone knows about him so well.”
He also stated, “Then, when I told them that Siddharth is the producer, they remarked, ‘He always makes interesting content’. This is the conversation we had based on the title of the show. In this very hall, Akshay Kumar and I were seated a few days before for an award show. He’s my bhai and my friend. He asked me, ‘Kya naya?’. I told him, ‘Amazon ki series aa rahi hai, Matka King’. He was immediately curious and it led to a conversation about the show. I had a similar conversation with Shah Rukh, Varun Dhawan and various others. The title immediately takes you to a very fascinating world.”
Matka King releases on Amazon Prime Video on April 17.
Also Read: Matka King trailer launch: Vijay Varma says, “When life throws a Hamza at you, make it Dhurandhar’s Hamza, not Darlings’ Hamza!”
read moreSCOOP: Salman Khan’s Maatrubhumi misses May window; June release on the cards
Salman Khan and Apoorva Lakhia collaborated for the first time on a war drama titled Battle of Galwan, based on the Galwan valley clash between India and China. However, through the shoot, a lot changed between the two countries, following which the Ministry of Defence requested Salman Khan and team to go fictional with the film. "The present officials didn't want to tamper with the equations between India and China. They requested Salman Khan to reshoot the film and add a fictional spin to the story. Salman respected their decision and instantly reshot around 40 per cent of the film, adding more romance and a backstory to his character. The film was submitted to the board for approval post the reshoot with a new title, Maatrubhumi," a source shared with Bollywood Hungama.
However, the latest we hear is that the newer cut too is facing issues, and the film won't release as rumoured before in May. "As reported by Bollywood Hungama before, Salman Khan was keen to bring Maatrubhumi on May 15. But the troubles with Censor and approval make it an impossible task now. The war drama could now be released in June, subject to the required approvals."
Meanwhile, Salman Khan starts shooting producer Dil Raju's untitled film by mid-April, with the aim to release the film in the first quarter of 2027. He is losing weight for the film and is excited to sport a completely new look for the Vamshi directorial. He also has the Raj DK retired superhero film, which is scheduled to begin in August.
Salman Khan is among the most influential superstars of Indian Cinema, and the insiders are confident that he will find a way out for the release of Matrubhoomi in due course of time.
Also Read: Maatrubhumi: Salman Khan, Chitrangda Singh song ‘Chand Dekh Lena’ BTS video reveals hidden magic fans didn’t see on screen
read moreRanveer Singh becomes first-ever brand ambassador of Jindal Stainless amid blockbuster success streak
Riding high on a massive box office streak, Ranveer Singh has added another milestone to his career by becoming the first-ever brand ambassador of Jindal Stainless. The collaboration marks a significant moment not just for the company, but also for the actor, who continues to expand his presence beyond films into impactful brand associations.
This is the first time Jindal Stainless has onboarded a celebrity ambassador, with Ranveer Singh set to headline campaigns across television, digital, and social media platforms. The move is aimed at strengthening the brand’s outreach and bringing it closer to consumers across the country.
The announcement comes at a time when Ranveer Singh is enjoying a strong phase in his film career. The actor delivered back-to-back successes with Dhurandhar (December 2025) and its sequel Dhurandhar The Revenge (March 2026), both of which performed impressively at the box office and reinforced his position as one of the industry’s most bankable stars.
Commenting on the announcement, Managing Director, Jindal Stainless, Mr Abhyuday Jindal, said, "Ranveer Singh represents not only the present but also the future of Indian cinema, deeply committed to the work behind performance. As Jindal Stainless embarks on its next phase of growth, his dynamic personality and strong connect with audiences make him a fitting partner, to help bring the versatility of stainless steel closer to people across the country."
Speaking about the association, Actor, Ranveer Singh, shared, "For many of us growing up in India, stainless steel has always been a familiar part of everyday life. It carries a sense of reliability and a distinctly Indian spirit. What makes this association special for me is that it represents values of trust, and authenticity I truly relate to. I'm excited to be associated with Jindal Stainless and look forward to taking the brand's story to audiences across the country."
Adding further perspective on the collaboration, Director - Corporate Affairs, Jindal Stainless, Mr Vijay Sharma, stated, "Through our association with Ranveer Singh, our first-ever brand ambassador, we aim to strengthen the awareness around stainless steel and its role in nation building. His wide appeal and strong connect with audiences will help us engage with a broader set of consumers and bring the story of stainless steel closer to everyday conversations."
While the company highlighted stainless steel’s role in sectors ranging from infrastructure to defence and aerospace, the spotlight firmly remains on Ranveer Singh, whose dynamic persona and wide-reaching popularity make him a natural fit for a nationwide campaign of this scale.
With this association, Ranveer Singh continues to solidify his position not just as a box office powerhouse, but also as one of the most sought-after faces for major brand endorsements in India.
Also Read: Ranveer Singh shot Dhurandhar The Revenge climax in 48°C heat, reveals makeup artist: “Containers were literally burning”
read moreEXCLUSIVE: Ginny Wedss Sunny 2 trailer to be launched on April 9 at a grand event ahead of its theatrical release on April 24
Ginny Wedss Sunny 2 has all eyes on it as the buzz around the film continues to grow, with lead actors Avinash Tiwary and Medha Shankr actively promoting it across platforms. Their fresh on-screen pairing has already created significant excitement among audiences, who love their chemistry and can’t wait to see them light up the big screen. The recently released songs ‘Chhap Tilak’ and ‘Aye Khudaa’ have further heightened anticipation, striking a chord with listeners for their soulful and romantic appeal, while offering a glimpse into the film’s emotional narrative.
Bollywood Hungama has now exclusively learned that the trailer of Ginny Wedss Sunny 2 is all set to drop this week. A source told Bollywood Hungama, “The trailer launch will be held on a grand scale in Mumbai and will be attended by the film’s lead actors – Avinash Tiwary and Medha Shankr – and others. The songs have helped build awareness about the film and now the 2 minute and 36-minute-long trailer will give viewers an idea about the world shown in the film and the plot. The makers are confident that the buzz for the film will significantly go up once the promo is out.”
The source further said, “The casting is also exciting. This is Avinash’s first theatrical release as a positive main lead after the re-release success of Laila Majnu (2018). This is also Medha’s immediate next after the sleeper super-hit, 12th Fail (2023).”
Besides Avinash Tiwary and Medha Shankr, Ginny Wedss Sunny 2 also boasts a strong supporting cast, including Lillete Dubey, Sudhir Pandey, Govind Namdev, Gopi Bhalla, Nayani Dixit, Vishwanath Chatterjee and Rohit Chaudhary.
Ginny Wedss Sunny 2, presented by Zee Studios and Soundrya Production, is produced by Vinod Bachchan and Umesh Kumar Bansal. The film being written and directed by Prasshant Jha, featuring Avinash Tiwary and Medha Shankr. It is all set to hit theatres on April 24, 2026.
Also Read: Ginny Wedss Sunny 2 makers drop ‘Aye Khudaa’ teaser in theatres with Dhurandhar 2; fans get exclusive first look
read moreEXCLUSIVE: Mukesh Chhabra ADMITS he and Aditya Dhar were initially unsure about casting Sara Arjun opposite Ranveer Singh; says, “She matched the brief exactly”
The casting of Sara Arjun opposite Ranveer Singh in Dhurandhar sparked widespread conversation after the trailer release, especially around the noticeable age gap between the two actors. Now, casting director Mukesh Chhabra has revealed that he and director Aditya Dhar were initially unsure about finalising her for the role.
Speaking exclusively with Bollywood Hungama, Chhabra explained that the team had always planned to cast a completely fresh face for the character rather than a familiar actress. He said, “From the beginning, Aditya and I were very clear that we needed a face that looked like she belonged to that world. There should be no baggage. A new face works better. If we had cast someone who had already done two films, the connection would not feel right because the boy is meeting her there for the first time.”
He added, “Sara had done a few films as a child actor but as a full-fledged heroine in a Bollywood film she had never done that before. The idea was to cast the character, not think of it as casting a typical lead.” Over 1,000 auditions were conducted before shortlisting Sara Arjun Chhabra revealed that the team conducted an extensive audition process that lasted nearly a year before narrowing down the options. “We were very clear that if we are entering that world, the audience should feel surprised about who the girl is. We did more than 1,200 to 1,300 auditions. It was clear that we wanted a new face and we were craving a new face.”
He also shared that the brief required someone who looked authentic to the setting of the film and could handle both Hindi and Urdu fluently while carrying innocence and simplicity on screen. “My brief was very clear. She should look like she belongs there. The language had to be correct. Her Hindi had to be very clear and her Urdu also had to be very clear. There had to be innocence and simplicity on her face because Ranveer’s character is drawn to that girl.”
According to Chhabra, the shortlist gradually narrowed from hundreds to just a handful of candidates before Sara stood out with a key audition scene. “We came down to 100, then 50, then 30, then 20 and finally 10. After auditioning the final 10, there were three or four very good actors but Sara was closest to what the brief needed. There were two or three others who were also close, but she matched it exactly.” Makers initially felt she looked too young Chhabra admitted that both he and Aditya Dhar initially wondered whether Sara Arjun looked too young for the role. They decided to conduct another look test before taking the final call. “Initially we felt she looked a little young. We thought let us do one more look test and change the makeup slightly so she does not appear too young. That doubt was there in the beginning.”
After the additional look test, the team became confident about the casting decision and finalised her for the role. “We did another look test here with a different makeup approach and then it worked. It is a very tough job.”
Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: “2-3 actors rejected Jameel Jamali role in Dhurandhar before Rakesh Bedi came on board,” reveals Mukesh Chhabra
read moreRamsons Perfumes ropes in Mrunal Thakur as brand ambassador
Fragrance has always been more than a finishing touch; it's an expression of personality, mood, and identity. Embracing this philosophy, Ramsons Perfumes has announced actor Mrunal Thakur as the face of the brand and its latest brand campaign, signalling a bold new phase. Known for delivering quality fragrances that combine craftsmanship with accessibility, Ramsons is now strengthening its emotional connection with consumers through elevated storytelling and contemporary brand expression. The collaboration with Mrunal Thakur reflects this strategic shift, positioning fragrance not just as a product but as a form of personal expression.
Mrunal Thakur represents the modern Indian woman: confident, expressive, relatable, and aspirational. Her strong resonance with audiences across metro cities as well as emerging markets mirrors Ramsons’ growing consumer base of young, digitally engaged people seeking products that reflect both individuality and aspiration.
Speaking about the collaboration, Mrunal Thakur shares: “What I love most about Ramsons is how they make world-class, premium fragrances accessible to everyone and I’m excited to bring these beautiful scents to my fans across the country. It feels authentic to partner with a brand that believes confidence and self-expression should never feel out of reach. My personal favourite is Exotica.”
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Mrunal Thakur (@mrunalthakur)
As part of the partnership, Mrunal will lead communication for Ramsons’ fragrance portfolio, with a special focus on the Exotica range. The campaign frames fragrance as the ultimate tool for self-expression, honoring the unique spirit and quiet strength of modern India.
The launch introduces a refined visual narrative, featuring Mrunal in minimal, sophisticated settings that allow the fragrance experience to take centre stage. Through hero films, digital content, and integrated storytelling formats, the campaign aims to create deeper emotional resonance while strengthening brand recall.
This partnership represents a pivotal shift for Ramsons, signalling its transformation from a utility-focused fragrance label into an evocative lifestyle brand. By striking a balance between aspirational appeal and affordability, the company is set to solidify its mass-premium status, specifically targeting the 22–40 demographic within both major metros and rising urban hubs.
Commenting on the announcement, Vrijesh Pandey, Group Chairman, Ramsons Perfumes, said: “Mrunal embodies the confidence and authenticity of today’s Indian woman. As Ramsons evolves into a more aspirational and digitally driven brand, this collaboration helps us connect with consumers in a more meaningful and contemporary way.”
Aligned with Ramsons’ broader business strategy, the campaign reinforces the brand’s shift toward brand-led growth and digital-first expansion across e-commerce and quick commerce platforms. Designed as an integrated campaign, the association focuses on sustained storytelling, stronger brand recall, and long-term consumer connection.
Through this collaboration, Ramsons aims to further establish itself as a modern, stylish, and trustworthy fragrance brand, one that understands today’s Indian consumers while making premium fragrance experiences accessible without compromise.
Also Read: Mrunal Thakur drops BTS photos from Dacoit with gratitude note after trailer launch: “Countdown to the film release officially starts now”
read moreTumbbad 2 goes on floors; Sohum Shah, Dr Jayantilal Gada, Boney Kapoor and Tutu Sharma attend mahurat puja
With Tumbbad, Sohum Shah created an iconic film. While the film gained a cult following and is considered one of the best Hindi fantasy folklore films, it was re-released in 2024 and went on to become the second highest-grossing re-released Indian film. Ever since then, audiences have been eagerly waiting for Tumbbad 2, and its announcement by Sohum Shah has only added to the intrigue. Now, finally, the big moment has arrived, as the film has gone on floors with a mahurat shot.
While this in itself has elevated the excitement, the mahurat shot was attended by producer Dr. Jayantilal Gada and his son Dhaval Gada, along with industry stalwarts Boney Kapoor and Tutu Sharma. This has further heightened anticipation for glimpses from the film. Now that the shoot has officially begun, more exciting updates are eagerly awaited.
A massive set of 7-8 acres is built in Mumbai, resembling a city, for the initial shoot of the movie. This indicates that Sohum Shah Films is creating a far more immersive experience for the audience, increasing the excitement for the much-awaited sequel.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Sohum Shah Films (@sohumshahfilms)
Tumbbad 2 is being directed by Adesh Prasad and spearheaded by actor-producer Sohum Shah under his banner Sohum Shah Films, with Pen Studios, headed by veteran producer Dr. Jayantilal Gada, the powerhouse behind blockbusters such as RRR and Gangubai Kathiawadi. The distribution will be done by Pen Marudhar.
Also Read: 1 Year of Crazxy: Did you know Sohum Shah brought back the same musicians who worked with Kishore Kumar on ‘Abhimanyu Chakravyuh Mein Fas Gaya Hai Tu’?
read moreREVEALED: Nearly 2 years after Heeramandi, Manisha Koirala signs Arbaaz Khan’s Raazdar
2 years ago, Manisha Koirala made her grand debut in the OTT space with Heeramandi. She was seen as Mallikajaan in the Sanjay Leela Bhansali-directed Netflix original, and it earned her numerous accolades. The period grand show will complete 2 years on May 1 this year. A few months before the anniversary, the veteran, talented actress began working on her next film, titled Raazdar.
A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Manisha Koirala’s stint in Heeramandi was quite loved and she was flooded with offers. However, the actress was clear that she wanted to only take up author-backed roles and work with like-minded people. She was in advanced talks for a film featuring a young actor, but it didn’t materialize; the film was also shelved later. Meanwhile, Raazdar came her way and it ticked all the boxes for her. That’s how she signed the film.”
According to Box Office Worldwide, Raazdar went on the floors earlier this year. The film's team completed a 25-day shooting schedule in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh and then shot in Mumbai for 10 days. The article further mentioned that the film stars Arbaaz Khan and Bhuvan Arora of Farzi fame. Arbaaz is also producing the film under his banner, Arbaaz Khan Production.
In an interview with Hindustan Times, Bhuvan Arora confirmed that he shot for Raazdar. The actor is soon going to be a father and while speaking about it, he revealed, “I was working with Arbaaz Khan (in Raazdar), and he also guided me on how to make it easier for the mother, which is the top priority.”
Interestingly, this is not the first time that Manisha Koirala and Arbaaz Khan will share screen space. They were earlier seen in the historical epic Taj Mahal: An Eternal Love Story (2005). In this film, while Arbaaz essayed the role of Aurangzeb, Manisha was seen as Aurangzeb’s sister Jahan Ara.
Raazdar is the seventh film to be produced under Arbaaz Khan Production. The other films made by this banner are Dabangg (2010), Dabangg 2 (2012), Dolly Ki Doli (2015), Dabangg 3 (2019), Patna Shuklla (2024) and Bandaa Singh Chaudhary (2024). Arbaaz also served as the executive producer on the Prime Video documentary, Angry Young Men (2025).
Also Read: “You sculpt feelings”: Manisha Koirala pens heartfelt tribute to Sanjay Leela Bhansali on his birthday
read moreKartik Aaryan brings home Mercedes-Benz V-Class worth up to Rs 1.7 crore
Actor Kartik Aaryan has added the Mercedes-Benz V-Class to his growing collection of premium vehicles, bringing a new level of comfort-focused practicality to a garage that already includes several performance-oriented and luxury models.
Interestingly, film producer Boney Kapoor also recently brought home the same luxury MPV, highlighting its rising popularity among film industry personalities who prefer spacious, chauffeur-driven vehicles for daily travel.
Kartik Aaryan’s existing car collection already reflects a strong preference for high-performance and premium vehicles. Among these is the McLaren GT, known for its speed and touring capability, the Lamborghini Urus, along with the Range Rover, BMW 5 Series and Mini Cooper.
With the addition of the Mercedes-Benz V-Class, the actor’s garage now includes a vehicle designed primarily for comfort, space and convenience. The move brings balance to his collection by complementing performance-focused machines with a practical luxury people mover suited for everyday city movement and professional commitments. Why the Mercedes-Benz V-Class is a celebrity favourite The Mercedes-Benz V-Class is widely known for its spacious cabin layout and executive-style seating configuration, especially suited for those who prefer chauffeur-driven travel. The six-seater arrangement with captain seats, ambient lighting and advanced suspension enhances long-distance comfort and privacy.
In India, the luxury MPV is typically priced between Rs 1.4 crore and Rs 1.7 crore, depending on the variant and features.
Speaking of the professional front, Kartik has an exciting line-up with multiple films in his pipeline, including NaagZilla and an untitled Anurag Basu directorial musical.
Also Read: Boney Kapoor adds Mercedes-Benz V-Class worth up to Rs 1.7 crore to his garage
read moreBoney Kapoor adds Mercedes-Benz V-Class worth up to Rs 1.7 crore to his garage
Film producer Boney Kapoor has expanded his garage with the addition of a premium new vehicle, the Mercedes-Benz V-Class, a model widely known for its emphasis on comfort, space and chauffeur-driven luxury. The acquisition reflects a growing preference among film personalities for high-end multi-purpose vehicles designed to double as mobile work and relaxation spaces.
A luxury MPV designed for comfort and privacy The Mercedes-Benz V-Class is often described as a private lounge on wheels because of its spacious cabin layout and executive-focused interiors. It is especially popular among celebrities and business leaders who rely on chauffeur-driven travel and require both comfort and discretion during commutes.
In India, the vehicle is available in multiple variants, with prices typically ranging between Rs 1.4 crore and Rs 1.7 crore depending on specifications and customization options. Premium interiors with executive seating One of the defining highlights of the V-Class is its six-seater configuration featuring captain seats in the rear. These seats are designed for long-distance comfort and provide a business-class style travel experience.
The vehicle also includes ambient lighting, advanced suspension tuned for smoother rides and a high-end infotainment system that enhances in-car convenience. Together, these features position the V-Class as a preferred choice for buyers seeking a balance between practicality and luxury. A growing celebrity favourite in Bollywood The Mercedes-Benz V-Class has steadily become a common presence in celebrity garages due to its generous cabin space and privacy-focused layout. For film industry professionals who often travel between studios, meetings and events across the city, the vehicle offers both functionality and prestige.
With this addition, Boney Kapoor joins a long list of prominent personalities who have opted for luxury MPVs as part of their everyday travel setup.
Also Read: Jisshu Sengupta, Karishma Tanna starrer Mom 2 goes on floors at Yamuna Expressway Film City; Boney Kapoor shares details
read moreSanjay Dutt starrer Aakhri Sawal gets new release date — film preponed to May 8
The makers of Aakhri Sawal, starring Sanjay Dutt, have officially announced a revised release date for the film. Originally scheduled to arrive in cinemas on May 16, 2026, the film has now been preponed and will hit theatres on May 8, 2026, bringing its release forward by over a week.
The decision to advance the release comes amid growing buzz around the project, particularly following the unveiling of its teaser. Released on the occasion of Hanuman Jayanti, the teaser offered a glimpse into the film’s narrative, which delves into the history of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), founded in 1925. While brief, the teaser has already generated considerable discussion for its subject matter and tone.
Positioned as an intense and thought-provoking drama, Aakhri Sawal aims to explore lesser-known aspects of the organisation’s journey while raising broader questions that are expected to unfold over the course of the film. The early promotional material has been described as direct and provocative, setting the stage for a narrative that could spark conversations upon release.
The film is directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Abhijeet Mohan Warang, who previously earned a Special Mention at the 67th National Film Awards for his Marathi-language film Picasso. Warang has built a body of work spanning Marathi and Hindi cinema, with projects such as Deja Vu, Prem Pratha Dhumshan, Piccolo, and the short film Virtual Reality.
Aakhri Sawal is presented by Nikhil Nanda and produced by Nikhil Nanda along with Sanjay Dutt. The film is co-produced by Puneet Nanda, Dr. Deepak Singh, Gaurav Dubey, and Ujjwal Anand. The story, screenplay, and dialogues have been written by Utkarsh Naithani.
Backed by Nikhil Nanda Motion Pictures, which has delivered multiple projects for digital platforms including JioHotstar, the film has steadily built anticipation since its announcement. With its release now advanced, Aakhri Sawal is set to arrive in cinemas sooner than expected, positioning itself as one of the notable theatrical releases in early May 2026.
Also Read: Aakhri Sawal Teaser | Yeh Sirf Shuruaat Hai | Sanjay Dutt | Namashi | Amit Sadh | Sameera Reddy
read moreAdarsh Gourav plans to write and release new music in 2026 :"Music has always been a very personal space for me"
After impressing audiences with both his acting and musical talent in Tu Yaa Main, Adarsh Gourav is now ready to take a deeper plunge into the world of music. The actor, who surprised many with his rap and playback singing in the film, is set to make music a more prominent part of his creative journey in 2026.
While Adarsh has long nurtured a strong passion for music alongside his acting career, the overwhelming response to his work in Tu Yaa Main has inspired him to step forward with greater confidence. What once remained a personal pursuit is now evolving into a focused artistic direction.
Looking ahead, Adarsh is actively working on writing and releasing new music over the coming months. He is also exploring collaborations with a diverse range of singers and producers, allowing him to experiment with different sounds and styles. Through these creative partnerships, he aims to push his artistic boundaries and discover a musical identity that is uniquely his own.
In addition to collaborations, the actor is planning to spend time in quieter, more isolated environments to nurture his songwriting process. Stepping away from the chaos of everyday life, Adarsh hopes to find clarity and creative freedom as he develops his music.
Speaking about this evolving phase, Adarsh shares, “Music has always been a very personal space for me. I think for the longest time, I kept it close, but the kind of love I received for my work in Tu Yaa Main really encouraged me to open up more. This year, I definitely intend on writing and releasing more music, and also collaborating with some really interesting singers and producers. That process itself is adding so many new layers and dynamics to the sound I want to discover.”
He further adds, “I also feel the need to step away from the noise every now and then, just to be able to listen to myself better. I’m planning to spend time in a more isolated space where I can write freely and explore ideas without distractions. Being a trained singer, I’ve always had that foundation, but now I feel more confident to really lean into it. I’m trying to blend everything I love, rap, melody, storytelling and create something that feels honest. This phase is not just about making music, it’s about rediscovering that part of me.”
With this renewed focus, Adarsh Gourav is not just expanding his creative repertoire but also redefining his artistic identity—one that seamlessly blends performance, music, and storytelling into a singular voice.
Also Read: Adarsh Gourav begins filming docu-series The Tribal Voice across Northeast India
read moreCrocs India taps Rakesh Bedi for new digital campaign built on everyday moments
Crocs India has rolled out a new digital campaign featuring veteran actor Rakesh Bedi, focusing on humor-led storytelling rooted in everyday interactions. The campaign film builds around a simple social gesture that gradually escalates into a sequence of exaggerated and unexpected situations.
The narrative follows a chain reaction triggered by a handshake, which ultimately leads to a quirky twist referred to as the “Crocshake.” The idea aligns with the brand’s broader messaging around self-expression and comfort, while using a light, character-driven approach.
Commenting on the campaign, Manoj Juneja, Country Manager at Crocs India, said, “At Crocs, we’ve always believed in staying culturally relevant and connecting with our audiences through moments that feel real and relatable. This campaign with Rakesh Bedi is a perfect example of how we blend humor, nostalgia, and contemporary trends to create content that not only entertains but also sparks conversations.”
Bedi, who has seen renewed visibility in recent projects, spoke about his experience working on the film. “What I loved about this campaign was how naturally the humor came through. It takes a simple, everyday situation and turns it into something completely unexpected. The idea is fun, the energy on set was great,” he said. He added that the campaign’s tone makes it accessible. “It’s always exciting to be part of something that audiences can instantly connect with and enjoy.”
The campaign continues Crocs India’s focus on digital-first content, aiming to engage audiences through familiar scenarios rather than high-concept storytelling.
Also Read: Sachin Tendulkar praises Rakesh Bedi in viral anecdote; actor’s witty comeback steals the show
read moreAre Jackie Shroff, Suniel Shetty teaming up? Cryptic reel fuels curiosity
A cryptic teaser reel featuring Jackie Shroff and Suniel Shetty has caught the internet’s attention after being posted on their official Instagram handles today.
The reel, styled like a WhatsApp chat, shows a brief and intriguing exchange between the two, leaving fans guessing about what’s coming next. With no clear context, social media is already buzzing with theories.
Are they teaming up for a new film, an OTT project, or something entirely different? Some even speculate that the duo could be coming together to host a show, something that would make for a strong and exciting collaboration.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Suniel Shetty (@suniel.shetty)
While there’s no official confirmation yet, the teaser has successfully sparked curiosity, and audiences are now eagerly waiting to see what unfolds.
Also Read: SGM Animation Studios launch: Subhash Ghai says, “In Ram Lakhan, Anil Kapoor can’t be Ram, Jackie Shroff can’t be Lakhan”; says Mickey Mouse is bigger than Bollywood and Hollywood stars: “Name one actor who has ruled for 80 years!”
read moreTina Thadani teams up with Shivam Dube for upcoming ad, calls it a "Cool Experience"
Actor Tina Thadani is set to return to the screen with an upcoming advertisement project featuring Indian cricketer Shivam Dube. The campaign, directed by Rohit Roy, is expected to release in the coming weeks.
Speaking about the shoot, Thadani described the experience of being back on set after a gap. “I did an ad for a brand where Shivam Dube was the brand ambassador and Rohit Roy was directing this ad. It was a great time working with them, especially in front of the camera and being back on set again,” she said.
The actor also spoke about the working environment on set, highlighting the professionalism of her co-collaborators. “Shivam Dube, the cricketer, is really very professional and so is Rohit. It was such an amazing experience to be back on set and doing what I love,” she added. According to Thadani, the project is associated with a fitness brand, and she confirmed that the advertisement will be released shortly. “Shivam is a world champion for India and it was a pleasure working with him. The ad will be out in a couple of weeks. This ad is for a fitness brand,” she said.
Beyond the professional aspect, the actor shared a personal highlight from the shoot. “The sweetest and nicest part was that my dad was visiting from Canada, so I got to bring him on set and I made him meet Shivam because he is a huge Indian cricket fan,” she revealed.
The project marks Thadani’s return to on-screen work, with the actor indicating that the experience combined both professional engagement and a meaningful personal moment.
Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Rohit Roy’s daughter Kiara Bose Roy to be launched opposite Sajid Nadiadwala’s son Subhan in Aisi Deewangi
read moreKarishma Tanna announces pregnancy with heartwarming post: ‘A little miracle, our greatest gift- August 2026’
Actor Karishma Tanna is all set to embrace a beautiful new chapter in her life—motherhood. The actor took to Instagram on Monday morning to share the joyous news that she is expecting her first child with husband Varun Bangera.
Karishma delighted fans with a carousel of adorable pictures featuring the couple. In the images, the two can be seen posing with tiny baby shoes while donning caps labeled ‘Mom’ and ‘Dad’, making the announcement all the more special.
“A little Miracle, Our greatest gift- August 2026” she captioned the picture post, also revealing the expected arrival of their baby.
Karishma and Varun began dating in 2021 and tied the knot on February 5 the following year. Since then, the couple has often shared glimpses of their life together, much to the delight of their fans.
Soon after the announcement, congratulatory messages poured in from friends and colleagues in the industry. Actor Khushi Kapoor commented, “Ahhh” followed by multiple hearts. Notably, Karishma and Khushi are set to share screen space in the sequel to Mom, which originally starred Khushi’s mother, the late legendary Sridevi.
Actor Bhumi Pednekar wrote, “Awwwwww”, while Dia Mirza commented, “Oh yay! Congratulations”. Other celebrities like Jasmin Bhasin, Tahira Kashyap, and Sonal Chauhan also joined in to shower love and best wishes on the couple.
With this heartwarming announcement, Karishma Tanna has given fans a reason to celebrate, as she prepares to welcome her “little miracle” in August 2026.
Also Read: Jisshu Sengupta, Karishma Tanna starrer Mom 2 goes on floors at Yamuna Expressway Film City; Boney Kapoor shares details
read more"Audience judges your character by your clothes": Janhvi Kapoor on sexualisation and career Impact
Janhvi Kapoor opened up about the persistent sexualisation of her image and how it has influenced both her public presence and professional decisions.
In a podcast with Raj Shamani, the actor explained that despite making a conscious effort to limit her visibility, she has little control over how she is perceived. “I have gone to extreme lengths to be seen as little as possible,” she said, pointing out that an overload of existing visuals online continues to define her image. “There are so many visuals of me already populated out there that you don’t feel like I’ve really gone anywhere.”
She highlighted how this constant circulation of images often reduces her identity to appearance, feeding into a cycle of sexualisation that is difficult to escape. “I didn’t like how I was being consumed by people because of these visuals, because of these AI things,” she said, referring to edited and manipulated content that further distorts perception.
This has had a direct impact on her behaviour and career strategy. Janhvi revealed that she now second-guesses even the most basic decisions, including social media posts. “I wouldn’t think, ‘Oh my God I look hot, let’s post it.’ I think ten times because something can be taken out of it,” she admitted.
At the core of her concern is how quickly audiences attach moral judgement to appearance. “Audience judges your character by your clothes,” she noted, underlining how sexualisation doesn’t remain superficial. It shapes credibility and opportunities.
As a result, Janhvi said she often chooses to “play it safe,” especially at this stage of her career. “I wish I could say I don’t care, but it does matter,” she added. “I’ll do what I have to, till I get that credibility,” indicating that navigating perception is still crucial to sustaining and growing her career.
Also Read: Janhvi Kapoor calls out oversexualisation: “Zooming into body parts without consent is invasive”
read moreYRF Entertainment Taps Streaming Veteran Saugata Mukherjee to Spearhead Content Strategy
YRF Entertainment has appointed seasoned content strategist Saugata Mukherjee as its new Head of Content, marking a significant move as the studio strengthens its presence in the global streaming landscape.
The platform, known for delivering acclaimed titles like The Romantics, The Railway Men, and Mandala Murders, has brought Saugata on board to lead its content vision across films and series. In his new role, he will report directly to YRF’s CEO Akshaye Widhani.
Expressing his enthusiasm about the appointment, Akshaye Widhani says, “I’m delighted to welcome a creative thought leader who has consistently pushed boundaries of how the audience engages with content and has been at the forefront of transformative shifts for over two decades. At a moment when streaming is reshaping local and global entertainment landscape, Saugata’s creative instincts and strategic clarity makes him uniquely suited for our next chapter at YRF Entertainment. As a company, we believe in championing India to the world and that great stories transcend geographies. With Saugata’s insight, we’re hopeful to deepen our connection with audiences worldwide while continuing to invest in bold & unique local content and talent.”
Alongside this leadership development, Yogendra Mogre will continue as Executive Producer on shows and head production at YRF Entertainment. He will work in close collaboration with Saugata and Akshaye to shape the company’s upcoming slate.
Saugata Mukherjee joins YRF Entertainment after a successful tenure as Head of Content and Executive Vice President at SonyLIV, where he played a pivotal role in transforming the platform into a premium destination for original storytelling. Under his leadership, SonyLIV delivered critically acclaimed and widely loved titles such as Scam 1992, Maharani, Rocket Boys, Gullak, and Freedom at Midnight. Collectively, these projects garnered over 100 major industry awards, underlining his impact on the Indian OTT space.
His productions, including Aarya (for Hotstar) and Rocket Boys (for SonyLIV), also earned nominations at the prestigious International Emmy Awards, further cementing his reputation as a content visionary.
Before his stint at SonyLIV, Saugata was instrumental in leading the India market entry for HBO Max and was a founding member of the leadership team that built Hotstar (now JioHotstar) into one of the largest streaming platforms globally by subscriber scale.
With extensive experience spanning platform launches, digital transformation, content monetisation strategies, and building high-performance creative teams, Saugata Mukherjee’s appointment signals YRF Entertainment’s intent to scale new heights in storytelling. As the streaming space continues to evolve rapidly, this strategic move positions the studio to deliver compelling, globally resonant content while staying rooted in powerful local narratives.
read moreSCOOP: Remo Dsouza begins work on his next dance film; likely to be titled ABCD 3
In 2013, Remo Dsouza inaugurated the dance film genre with ABCD – Any Body Can Dance (2013). It was a film with no popular star cast and yet opened at Rs. 5.50 crores, despite competition from the Akshay Kumar-starrer Special 26 (2013). Thanks to its theme, smart promotions, youth appeal, chartbuster music and of course, the dance moves, it went on to collect Rs. 45.50 crores in its lifetime. The second part, ABCD – Any Body Can Dance – 2 (2015), starred Varun Dhawan and Shraddha Kapoor, and was a bigger hit, crossing the Rs. 100 crore mark. Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learned that now Remo Dsouza has begun working on another dance film and it may be titled ABCD 3.
The source continued, “It’ll be produced by Amit Chandrra of Trigger Happy Studios. Remo Dsouza and his team have cracked a great idea for the film. They are now working on the screenplay. Remo is fully aware that a lot has changed since the last time he attempted a dance film in terms of audience consumption, exposure to various dance forms etc. He has kept those changes and Gen Z and Gen Alpha audiences in mind while envisioning his upcoming venture.”
Meanwhile, another source told us that it might be a continuation of the first part of ABCD. Hence, as per this source, the characters from ABCD – Any Body Can Dance are expected to return in Remo’s next. However, Bollywood Hungama couldn’t verify this claim at the time of publishing this article.
Remo Dsouza entered the industry as a choreographer and turned director with the Bengali film Lal Pahare'r Katha (2007). His Hindi directorial debut happened with F.A.L.T.U. (2011) followed by ABCD – Any Body Can Dance and ABCD – Any Body Can Dance – 2. He then directed A Flying Jatt (2016), Race 3 (2018) and Street Dancer 3D (2020). Last year, his dance film, Be Happy (2025), had a release on Amazon Prime Video.
Also Read: Is Raghav Juyal reuniting with Remo D’Souza for ABCD 3? Here’s what we know!
read moreDiljit Dosanjh, A. R. Rahman and Imtiaz Ali unite for soul-stirring anthem ‘Kya Kamaal Hai’ from Main Vaapas Aaunga
In a collaboration that brings together some of the most influential voices in Indian music and cinema, Imtiaz Ali’s upcoming film Main Vaapas Aaunga is already shaping up to be one of the most anticipated releases of the year. The project sees global icon Diljit Dosanjh join forces with legendary composer A. R. Rahman and acclaimed lyricist Irshad Kamil—a creative trio known for crafting timeless musical experiences.
Adding to the excitement is the newly unveiled track ‘Kya Kamaal Hai’, described as a “song of hope” that resonates deeply with the times we live in. In a world often overshadowed by chaos, conflict, and uncertainty, the song offers a refreshing perspective—highlighting the beauty of life, the strength of love, and the enduring power of human connection. It aims to remind listeners that even in the darkest moments, hope and togetherness can prevail.
True to Imtiaz Ali’s signature storytelling style, the song is expected to seamlessly blend into the film’s emotional narrative, enhancing its depth and relatability. Known for his ability to weave music into the very fabric of his stories, Imtiaz once again appears to be using melody as a powerful storytelling tool.
The film boasts a stellar ensemble cast featuring Naseeruddin Shah, Sharvari, and Vedang Raina alongside Diljit Dosanjh, promising a compelling cinematic experience.
Backed by producers Sameer Nair and Deepak Segal under Applause Entertainment, along with Mohit Choudhary and Shibasish Sarkar of Window Seat Films, Main Vaapas Aaunga is slated for a theatrical release on June 12, 2026.
With a powerful creative team at its helm and music that speaks to the soul, the film is poised to strike a chord with audiences, making Kya Kamaal Hai not just a song, but an emotion that lingers long after the music fades.
Also Read: Main Vaapas Aaunga: Imtiaz Ali reveals poster of Diljit Dosanjh-Starrer ahead of teaser launch
read moreEXCLUSIVE: Not just the mirror mistake, Dhurandhar The Revenge's new print also censors some abuses; Sanjay Dutt's abusive dialogue and few other abuses muted
A few days ago, Bollywood Hungama exclusively informed readers that a revised print of Dhurandhar The Revenge has been sent to cinemas since last weekend. The earlier print of the Ranveer Singh-Sanjay Dutt-R Madhavan-Arjun Rampal starrer had a minor blunder – the cameraman’s reflection was visible in the mirror in a crucial scene in the second half featuring Hamza aka Jaskirat Singh Rangi (Ranveer Singh) amd Gurbaaz Singh aka Pinda (Udaybir Sandhu). This blunder was rectified in the revised print. Bollywood Hungama has now learned that the makers have made one more change as well.
A source told Bollywood Hungama, “In the earlier version, some abuses were muted but many of them were left untouched. In the new print, more cuss words have been censored. The dialogue where (Sanjay Dutt) says ‘L***d c******a kya’ in the Operation Lyari sequence has been muted, though the gesture made by the actor while mouthing the dialogue remains. The abuse, ‘B******a’, said by Rakesh Bedi while getting his pedicure done, and by a character in the ‘Aari Aari’ song sequence was also silenced. A few more abuses have been similarly muted in other parts of the film. Words like ‘B****a’ and ‘G***u’ were kept untouched.”
Before the release of Dhurandhar The Revenge, Bollywood Hungama had exclusively reported that among the 21 modifications listed by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), abusive words were asked to be muted and some abuses were asked to be replaced. No details were provided in the cut list about these cuss words. At another point, a non-abusive word was replaced. In two places, a word was muted while a name was replaced, possibly with a fictional name.
Dhurandhar The Revenge is written and directed by Aditya Dhar and produced by Jyoti Deshpande of Jio Studios and Aditya Dhar and Lokesh Dhar of B62 Studios.
Also Read: Ranveer Singh shot Dhurandhar The Revenge climax in 48°C heat, reveals makeup artist: “Containers were literally burning”
read moreChetak Screen Awards 2026 full winners list: Dhurandhar dominates with 14 wins; Homebound takes Best Film
The Chetak Screen Awards 2026 honoured some of the most notable achievements in Indian cinema this year, with Dhurandhar emerging as the biggest winner of the night by taking home 14 trophies across major categories. While Dhurandhar dominated the technical and performance honours, Homebound secured the top prize for Best Film, marking a balanced spread of recognition across the industry’s biggest titles.
Here is the complete winners' list from the ceremony. Major award winners Best Film Homebound
Best Actor (Female) Yami Gautam Dhar – Haq
Best Actor (Male) Ranveer Singh – Dhurandhar
Best Director Aditya Dhar – Dhurandhar
Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Female) Shalini Vatsa – Homebound
Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Male) Akshaye Khanna – Dhurandhar Technical category winners Best Action Aejaz Gulab, Sea Young Oh, Yannick Ben, Ramazan Bulut – Dhurandhar
Best Background Score Shashwat Sachdev – Dhurandhar
Best Choreography Vijay Ganguly – ‘Shararat’ (Dhurandhar)
Best Cinematography Vikash Nowlakha – Dhurandhar
Best Costume Sheetal Iqbal Sharma – Chhaava Smriti Chauhan – Dhurandhar
Best Dialogue Aditya Dhar – Dhurandhar
Best Editing Shivkumar V. Panicker – Dhurandhar
Best Hairstyling and Make-Up Preetisheel Singh D'Souza – Dhurandhar
Best Production Design Saini S. Johray – Dhurandhar
Best Sound Design Bishwadeep Chatterjee – Dhurandhar
Best Special Effects Envision VFX, Philm CGI, Resonance Digital, Dhruti Ranjan Sahoo, Vishal Tyagi, Raza Mohammed Shaikh – Dhurandhar Writing and special recognition Best Film for Gender Sensitivity Haq – Vineet Jain, Vishal Gurnani, Harman Baweja, Juhi Parekh Mehta, Amrita Pandey, Suparn S Varma, Rowena Baweja, Sandeep Singh
Best Film Writing (Story and Screenplay) Basharat Peer, Neeraj Ghaywan, Sumit Roy – Homebound Music category winners Best Song “Title Track” – ‘Saiyaara’ (Tanishk Bagchi, Faheem Abdullah, Arslan Nizami)
Best Lyrics Ul Julool Ishq – Gulzar
Best Playback Singer (Male) Faheem Abdullah – ‘Saiyaara Title Track’
Best Playback Singer (Female) Shreya Ghoshal – ‘Saiyaara Title Track’ Breakthrough winners Breakthrough Debut Director Shazia Iqbal – Dhadak 2
Breakthrough New Actor (Female) Aneet Padda – Saiyaara
Breakthrough New Actor (Male) Ahaan Panday – Saiyaara OTT category winners 📺 Best OTT Film Stolen – Gaurav Dhingra
Best Actor (Female) – OTT Film Sanya Malhotra – Mrs.
Best Actor (Male) – OTT Film Abhishek Banerjee – Stolen
Best Director – OTT Film Karan Tejpal – Stolen
Best Script – OTT Film Karan Tejpal, Gaurav Dhingra, Swapnil Salkar – Stolen
With 14 awards across acting, direction, and multiple technical categories, Dhurandhar emerged as the night’s biggest winner, while Homebound, Saiyaara, and Stolen also secured major honours across theatrical and streaming segments
Also Read: Chetak Screen Awards nominations announced: Dhurandhar leads with 24 nods; Saiyaara, Homebound follow
read moreBhooth Bangla trailer sneak peek: The return of Akshay Kumar, Priyadarshan and the comedy OGs promises loads of entertainment; Tabu emerges as the surprise package
Last night, Bollywood Hungama got a sneak peek of the trailer of the much-awaited film of the month, Bhooth Bangla, more than 12 hours before its launch today (April 6). The film has already created a buzz due to its horror-comedy genre, casting and more, and the trailer is expected to further enhance the hype around it.
The trailer is around 2 minutes and 58 seconds long and offers a better idea of the premise. The focus, of course, is on the humour quotient. As expected, Akshay Kumar steals the show. There’s no one like him when it comes to comedy, and he proves it yet again. He is ably supported by a stellar cast comprising Rajpal Yadav, Paresh Rawal and the late Asrani. Just seeing all of them together, that too in a Priyadarshan film, is sure to make fans nostalgic and excited. To add to the nostalgia, the makers have used two famous dialogues from Priyadarshan’s memorable comedies of the past, which are sure to be lapped up.
Wamiqa Gabbi and Mithila Palkar get limited screen time, but it’s clear that they, too, have a significant part to play in the narrative. However, the surprise element of the trailer is Tabu. She seems to be the surprise package, and the makers have smartly kept her character under wraps. In fact, it’s evident that a major chunk of the plot, especially the horror element, has not been revealed. Hence, expect horror, comedy and a blend of suspense when the film releases at 9:00 pm on April 16.
The postponement of the film by a week led to disappointment among fans. However, the delay could work in the film’s favour, as Dhurandhar The Revenge would have almost exhausted its run by then. A healthy opening seems to be on the cards. Moreover, with no major competition until May 1, Bhooth Bangla will enjoy a clean two-week window to leave a mark at the box office, provided the audience response is favourable.
Also Read: Wamiqa Gabbi to play female lead in Akshay Kumar starrer Bhoot Bangla: Sources
read moreJanhvi Kapoor calls out oversexualisation: “Zooming into body parts without consent is invasive”
Actor Janhvi Kapoor has spoken candidly about being oversexualised in the public eye, addressing concerns around consent, paparazzi culture, and the growing misuse of digital content. During a conversation on the Raj Shamani Podcast, the actress shared how such experiences have shaped her personal and professional decisions.
Recalling a recent interaction with paparazzi, Kapoor said, “I actually had a conversation with paparazzi recently. I told them—this is bad for us, it feels invasive and non-consensual. Even if we dress a certain way, we’re not expecting someone to zoom in on specific body parts. And more than us, it reflects badly on them—that they’re commodifying a woman’s body for money and views.”
While she noted that the photographers appeared receptive, Kapoor acknowledged the issue runs deeper. “They seemed receptive, but the issue is larger—it’s about consumption. Globally, content that objectifies women is the most consumed. That’s why it keeps getting circulated. Since you’re a public figure in glamour, it happens more to you,” she explained.
Highlighting the importance of consent, she drew a distinction between performance and exploitation. “At every stage, you have to ask—what did I consent to? For example, I did a song called ‘Bheegi Saadi’, where I’m dancing sensually in a wet saree. That was meant to be sensual. If someone finds it attractive, that’s fine. But sexualising someone without consent is completely different—and I’m not okay with that.”
Kapoor further pointed out how visuals are often altered without her knowledge. “There are angles and ways things are shot or edited—zoomed, slowed down—without my knowledge. That’s not my consent. Even on film sets, if a camera is placed somewhere I’m not comfortable with, I should be able to say no without being seen as unprofessional,” she said, adding, “Earlier, I was more polite and picked my battles. Now I make my point more clearly—though still politely.”
The actress also addressed how such portrayals affect her career trajectory. “I can’t afford to stop caring, because these perceptions affect audiences, filmmakers, and the opportunities I get. If people keep seeing you in compromising visuals, they form a perception about your character. It’s wrong, but it happens,” she noted.
She added that these perceptions influence casting decisions as well. “Filmmakers also think this way. If they feel you’re already overly visible in a certain way, they might hesitate to cast you. Audience perception directly impacts casting decisions. It’s sad that people judge your values based on your clothes—but that’s the reality.”
Kapoor revealed that she has recently taken steps to limit her public visibility. “In the past couple of months, I’ve gone to great lengths to avoid being photographed. I had three releases back-to-back last year—I felt like people had seen too much of me.”
Despite not actively seeking media attention, she said the volume of content around her remains high. “People say actors call the media—I don’t, except for promotions. But there’s already so much content of me out there that it doesn’t feel like I’ve disappeared at all.”
Concluding her thoughts, Kapoor admitted that the fear of misuse continues to affect her. “I didn’t like how I was being consumed—because of AI, edits, and everything. Even when I post something now, I overthink—will this be misused or edited? I wish I could say I don’t care—but I do.”
For now, she believes caution is necessary. “Right now, I’m not in a position of power where I can completely ignore it. So, I’ll play it safe for now, until I build enough credibility to fully be myself without consequences,” she said.
Also Read: Janhvi Kapoor recalls disturbing early deepfake experience: “I saw a picture of myself on a porn site”
read moreJanhvi Kapoor recalls disturbing early deepfake experience: “I saw a picture of myself on a porn site”
Actor Janhvi Kapoor has candidly spoken about her first encounter with manipulated imagery resembling deepfakes, recalling a deeply unsettling experience from her school days. Appearing on the Raj Shamani Podcast, the actress shared how the incident left a lasting impression on her and shaped her views on digital ethics and consent.
Reflecting on the episode, Kapoor said, “I don’t know if it was technically a deepfake, but it was something like that. I saw a picture of myself on a porn site. We had IT class in school, and the boys used to go on those sites for fun—and my pictures were there. This was while I was still in school. That was a weird experience.”
The actor admitted that the incident forced her to confront the darker realities of being in the public eye at a young age. “At some point, I thought, ‘Why? Is this just the price you have to pay?’ Like there’s no morality in these things. With social media, everyone is just putting things out there. If anything, this new ‘woke’ sensitivity has slightly corrected behaviour in terms of ethics and morality—but largely, it’s still a problem. A lot of people think it’s normal—‘This happens, you’re a public figure, so it will happen’,” she said.
Kapoor also expressed concern over the growing circulation of AI-generated visuals that misrepresent her. “I’m not at peace with it. There are visuals of me out there—circulated even by official news pages—that are completely AI-generated. I’ve never worn those things, I’ve never been photographed like that. But it’s circulated as if it’s real, creating a certain impression,” she revealed.
Highlighting the professional implications, she added, “Tomorrow, if I’m doing a film and I tell a director I’m not comfortable wearing something, they could say, ‘But you’ve already done this—people have seen it.’”
Despite her discomfort, Kapoor acknowledged the limitations she feels in speaking out. “It makes you question what the moral guidelines even are. It upsets me, of course. But I feel like I don’t have enough voice or credibility to complain about it. People might say, ‘You’ve got so much in life, just tolerate this. Don’t complain.’ So I don’t think my voice carries enough weight yet to address it without backlash. But it’s not just me—others have spoken about it too,” she concluded.
Her remarks add to the ongoing conversation around AI misuse, digital consent, and the urgent need for stronger ethical boundaries in the age of rapidly evolving technology.
Also Read: Janhvi Kapoor partners with Amaha to reframe alcohol addiction as a mental health condition, not a moral failing: “The conversation around alcohol is either absent or deeply judgmental”
read moreRanveer Singh starrer Pralay is not an adaptation, reveals Hansal Mehta
Filmmaker Hansal Mehta has opened up about his upcoming project Pralay, starring Ranveer Singh. The film, which has been generating considerable curiosity, is set to explore a large-scale post-apocalyptic world—an idea that, according to Mehta, has been in development for quite some time.
Speaking about the origins of the project to The Hollywood Reporter, Mehta revealed that the concept was initially developed by filmmaker Jai Mehta, who had been working on it independently before Ranveer Singh came on board. "Jai had been working on this idea for a long time." He further explained how the collaboration took shape once Ranveer expressed interest in the concept, "When Ranveer saw his work, he reached out to him and then Jai pitched it to him. Once Ranveer said he liked the idea, we invested in developing it-helping Jai create the world he wants to present in the film."
Detailing the scale and ambition of Pralay, Mehta described it as a genre-defining project for Indian cinema. “Its a post-apocalyptic world that hasnt been attempted before at this scale in India. Development is not just about writing. It also includes ideas-how you shape them, how you visualise them, and how you eventually sell them to a third party, to a star or a studio. We've invested in building those ideas,” he further told the portal.
Addressing speculation about the film being inspired by existing literary works, Mehta firmly dismissed such claims, clarifying that the story is entirely original. "It's not an adaptation”, he added and continued, "Jay and Vishal Kapoor have written the original story. Further, I think a book like Blindness is not easily adapted to film. I had seen the 2008 film adaptation (starring Julianne Moore and Mark Ruffalo) and it wasn't great. Writers like Saramago or Salman Rushdie... I feel they are best experienced on paper. Their books lose all their magic when interpreted for cinema."
He also emphasised that the success of the film will largely depend on how convincingly its world is brought to life on screen. He shared, "The victory of Jai's film will depend on its immersive nature”. "How do you make a post-apocalyptic, dystopian world believable? To that end, we are working with some of the best talent from around the world. And we are trying to achieve it at a fraction of the cost in which Hollywood would have done it."
With its ambitious premise and focus on immersive storytelling, Pralay is shaping up to be a significant addition to the evolving landscape of high-concept cinema in India.
Also Read: Ranveer Singh to lead zombie thriller ‘Pralay’ as Hansal Mehta expands True Story Films slate
read moreEXCLUSIVE: Sonu Nigam remembers his iconic song ‘Kal Ho Naa Ho’ as ISAMRA distributes WHOPPING Rs. 100 cr in royalties to 26,000 singers; Anup Jalota gets emotional; Sanjay Tandon recalls journey from Rs. 51,000 to 100 cr
It was a joyous occasion for ISAMRA (Indian Singers And Musicians Rights Association) recently as they announced that they have distributed Rs. 100 crore in royalties to 26,000 singers and musicians. Bollywood Hungama spoke exclusively to the ones who fought bravely for the rights of the singers – the legendary Sonu Nigam and Anup Jalota and ISAMRA founder and MD, Sanjay Tandon.
Sonu Nigam said, “It feels like a quiet victory, not loud, not dramatic, but deeply meaningful. For years, the voice created value but did not always receive its share of that value. Today feels like a moment of correction. Not just for me, but for every singer who has given their soul to a song. It is a sense of dignity returning. The system has finally begun to listen.”
In June 2024, Sanjay Tandon revealed that ISAMRA had distributed its first royalty, Rs. 51,000, for the song ‘Lag Jaa Gale’ (Woh Kaun Thi; 1964). Explaining the journey from Rs. 51,000 to Rs. 100 crores, he replied, “That first royalty of Rs. 51,000 was a beginning, not just financially, but emotionally. It proved that performers’ rights could move from theory to reality. From there to Rs. 100 crore has been a journey of building from scratch. There was no ready data, no structured system, and no precedent. Just belief. Today, when we look back, it is not about the numbers alone. It is about restoring faith among singers and musicians that their contribution has value beyond applause (smiles).”
Anup Jalota, meanwhile, stated, “This is a very emotional moment. For years, singers have been the soul of music in this country, but their contribution was not always recognised in the way it should have been. Today feels like a long-awaited acknowledgement. It is not just financial, it is about respect, about dignity. It feels like a blessing.”
The AI factor One of the immediate issues to be addressed is AI and how it can produce the voice of any singer. Sonu Nigam admitted, “AI is both exciting and concerning. It can enhance music, but it can also blur the identity of the artist. A voice is deeply personal; it carries emotion, years of training, and lived experience. If that can be replicated without consent, it becomes a serious issue. The way forward is awareness, strong legal frameworks, and organisations like ISAMRA stepping in to protect performers. Consent and compensation must become non-negotiable. Technology should support creativity, not exploit it.”
Sanjay Tandon agreed, “AI introduces both efficiency and risk. The biggest challenge is ownership. If a voice can be cloned or replicated, the question is who owns that usage. ISAMRA is actively working towards frameworks where any such use is governed by clear consent and fair compensation. The principle remains simple. If a voice generates value, the artist must receive that value. Technology cannot override rights.”
The way forward Some more challenges also remain. Anup Jalota said, “Traditionally, singers have been paid for recording a song, but not for the life of that song. A song continues to live, to be heard, to generate value across platforms and generations. That value must come back to the singer. The way forward is awareness and stronger systems. Singers must understand their rights, and the industry must evolve to make royalties a standard practice. This change has begun, and it must now become the norm.”
Sanjay Tandon observed, “The focus now is on scale and inclusivity. We want every performer, whether a leading voice or a session musician, to be part of this ecosystem. Strengthening international partnerships, building a seamless one-window licensing system, and continuing to educate artists about their rights are key priorities. The journey ahead is about making this system stronger, wider, and more accessible.”
Musical end to the conversation On a lighter note, we asked Sonu Nigam which song he was reminded of on this momentous occasion of ISAMRA. The singer flashed his wonderful smile and said, “’Kal Ho Naa Ho’. There is a feeling in that song about valuing the present, about acknowledging what truly matters. This moment feels like that. Something that always belonged to singers is finally coming back to them. It’s emotional, but also very grounding.”
Also Read: Sonu Nigam, Sukhwinder Singh, Kailash Kher and Salim-Sulaiman to perform at Subhash Ghai’s Cadence Music Festival 2026
read moreAdivi Sesh credits Akshay Kumar’s Pad Man for Dacoit’s Hindi-Telugu strategy: "It was a Tamil story and yet it was set in Madhya Pradesh"
Mrunal Thakur, Adivi Sesh, Anurag Kashyap and Zayn Marie Khan attended the trailer launch of the Hindi version of their film Dacoit: Ek Prem Katha in Mumbai. The film is not dubbed in Hindi and has been simultaneously filmed in Telugu as well as Hindi. Adivi Sesh explained the reason behind it and he remembered the Akshay Kumar-starrer Pad Man (2018), based on the incredible life of Arunachalam Muruganantham.
Adivi Sesh began by saying, “In the US, people wear black dresses to a funeral. Log chashme laga ke silently rote hai. But in India, we wear white and we cry loudly while mourning. So, it’s a cultural thing and there are also cultural nuances. That’s how we tweaked the song ‘Chichubuddi’ to ‘Touch Buddy’ for the Hindi audience. The Hindi song blended the Bhojpuri flavour of Pawan Singh and the urban flavour of Jonita Gandhi. That’s an example of things we did on a very fun, practical way.”
He added, “As for the story, there was a lovely film I saw, Pad Man. I was intrigued by the plot and I researched it. That’s when I learned that it’s a Tamil story. It made me wonder ‘Hum Tamil story Hindi audience ko kyun nahin dikha sakte? Usko Madhya Pradesh mein set karne ki kya zaroorat hai?’. After all, it’s based on true events.”
Adivi Sesh continued, “So, I thought of setting a story on the Badlands of Andhra Pradesh-Karnataka border and making the film in an authentic Hindi cinema style. I believe that if done correctly, it’ll reach people in the North and unko film dekh ke apnapan lagega. I had a first experience of it when we launched ‘Touch Buddy’ in Gorakhpur. They were mouthing dubbed Hindi dialogues of my film. Mujhe pata bhi nahin tha ki woh mere film ke dubbed dialogues hai (smiles). Some of them confessed, ‘Aap hamari bhasha mein baat kar rahe hai. Yeh humein bahut accha laga’. Suddenly, I became their hero (and not a hero from another industry). This is why we want to authentically do justice to our vision in Telugu and in Hindi as well.”
Dacoit: Ek Prem Katha releases in cinemas on April 10.
Also Read: Dacoit trailer launch: Adivi Sesh speaks about averting clash with Akshay Kumar’s Bhooth Bangla; confesses why he pushed release from March 19: “We didn’t get desired showcasing because of my FRIEND Aditya Dhar’s phenomenal film, Dhurandhar…woh film 3-4 mahine tak chalti rahegi!”
read moreRajkummar Rao turns ‘Kanjoos’ in Netflix’s Toaster trailer: One toaster sparks absolute chaos in this Sanya Malhotra starrer
Streaming giant Netflix has unveiled the trailer of its upcoming dark comedy Toaster, offering a glimpse into a hilariously chaotic world where one man’s obsession with saving money leads to unforeseen consequences. Headlined by Rajkummar Rao and Sanya Malhotra, the film is set to premiere on April 15.
Directed by Vivek Das Chaudhary and produced by Patralekhaa under Kampa Film, Toaster revolves around Ramakant, a man who takes frugality to extreme levels. The trailer introduces Rajkummar Rao’s character as an unapologetic miser who believes that every rupee saved is a triumph. However, his rigid mindset leads him into a bizarre situation when a toaster he had gifted at a wedding ends up being wasted.
What begins as a simple attempt to retrieve the appliance soon escalates into a chain of increasingly messy and chaotic events. Ramakant’s determination not to let go of something he has spent money on drags not only himself but also those around him into a whirlwind of confusion and unintended consequences.
The film also boasts a strong ensemble cast, featuring Archana Puran Singh, Abhishek Banerjee, Farah Khan, Upendra Limaye, Vinod Rawat, Jitendra Joshi and Seema Pahwa. Each character brings their own quirks and motivations, contributing to the film’s layered narrative and steadily escalating momentum.
Sharing his thoughts on the project, Rajkummar Rao said, “This is a special one for me as it marks our first film under our production house, Kampa Film and produced by Patralekhaa. I’m truly excited to bring this story to audiences. What really drew me to Toaster was how something so small can completely take over a person’s mind. Ramakant is someone who genuinely believes he’s doing the right thing. He doesn’t see his actions as extreme, he sees them as practical. But that’s exactly what makes the journey so unpredictable. It’s a story that comes from a very real place, and watching that sincerity spiral into chaos is what makes the film both engaging and entertaining. It was also a joy working with such a brilliant cast, which really brought this world to life. It feels great to be working with Netflix again. They’ve always championed new stories and storytellers, and it’s exciting to be working both behind and in front of the camera this time.”
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Netflix India (@netflix_in)
Backed by a screenplay by Parveez Shaikh, along with Akshat Ghildial and Anagh Mukerjee, and dialogues by Akshat Ghildial, Toaster blends dark humour with relatable human behaviour. With Tarun Bali serving as executive producer, the film positions itself as a fast-paced entertainer driven by character dynamics and situational comedy.
With its quirky premise and a strong ensemble of Archana Puran Singh, Abhishek Banerjee, Farah Khan, Upendra Limaye, Vinod Rawat, Jitendra Joshi and Seema Pahwa, Toaster promises a sharp, engaging ride that explores how even the smallest fixation can spiral into absolute chaos. The film premieres exclusively on Netflix on April 15.
Also Read: Rajkummar Rao, Sanya Malhotra starrer Toaster gets release date; Netflix to drop quirky dark comedy on April 15
read moreRanbir Kapoor opens up on playing both Lord Rama and Parashurama in Ramayana: “It was fantastic”
The anticipation surrounding Ramayana continues to grow, especially after the teaser featuring Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram was unveiled in the United States earlier this week. During the event, the actor interacted with the media and offered insights into one of the most intriguing aspects of the film—his dual role as both Lord Rama and Lord Parashurama in Nitesh Tiwari’s ambitious magnum opus.
While Ranbir Kapoor is primarily expected to portray Lord Rama, reports suggest that he will also be seen as Lord Parashurama in a brief yet significant appearance. The actor spoke about the mythological connection between the two characters, both of whom are considered incarnations of Lord Vishnu.
“Lord Vishnu had different avatars. Lord Rama was an avatar, and Lord Parshurama was an avatar before Lord Rama." Sharing his excitement about getting the opportunity to portray both roles, Ranbir highlighted how rare and creatively fulfilling the experience has been for him as an actor. “Just to get the opportunity, you know, how I got to play Lord Rama, to also play Lord Parshurama was fantastic. I think as an actor, apart from body language, I think if you deeply understand the spirituality and the emotionality of the characters, I think everything starts from there. I think that’s what I did the year leading up to the shoot of Ramayana, to understand who these people and characters are, what they stand for and what their motives are."
Ranbir Officially Confirms He is Playing Bhagwan Parshuram!#Ramayana pic.twitter.com/n2WxVroeP0 — RK🐰 (@rksbunny) April 3, 2026
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana is being mounted on a grand scale and is widely regarded as one of the most ambitious adaptations of the ancient Indian epic. The film aims to bring the timeless story of Lord Rama—his journey, ideals, and battle against evil—to a global audience with cutting-edge visuals and a large ensemble cast.
The inclusion of Parashurama, an earlier avatar of Vishnu known for his fierce temperament and warrior spirit, adds an additional mythological layer to the narrative. Though expected to appear briefly, the character holds symbolic importance within the larger context of the epic.
Ranbir Kapoor’s preparation for the role has reportedly involved extensive physical training as well as a deep dive into the philosophical and emotional underpinnings of the characters. His emphasis on understanding spirituality reflects the film’s attempt to go beyond spectacle and present a more nuanced portrayal of these revered figures.
As excitement builds around the project, Ramayana continues to remain one of the most closely watched films in development, with audiences eager to see how this iconic tale is reimagined for the big screen.
Also Read: Ramayana: Dipika Chikhlia reacts to Lord Rama’s teaser; says, “It’s very grand, very beautiful,” says OG Sita
read moreAditya Dhar vs Santosh Kumar Row: Legal action looms over Dhurandhar 2 script theft allegations
A fresh controversy has erupted in the film industry, with filmmaker Aditya Dhar and writer Santosh Kumar at the centre of a growing legal dispute over alleged script theft related to Dhurandhar 2 aka Dhurandhar The Revenge. The matter has now taken a serious turn, with both sides preparing for legal action while publicly presenting contrasting claims.
According to a source quoted by Hindustan Times, Aditya Dhar has already responded through his legal team and is considering further steps. “Aditya Dhar has already issued a notice to Santosh Kumar through his legal team, refuting the allegations and requesting him to refrain from making false claims. Despite the aforesaid, since Santosh continues to make baseless allegations, Aditya is in the process of initiating appropriate legal proceedings against him."
However, Santosh Kumar has strongly refuted the claim that a formal legal notice was issued. He maintained that the communication received was merely a response to his email and alleged that he was being pressured to stay silent. “It is not a notice, it is just a reply on my mail. They were harassing me, that I should not complain and that I am defaming them for my publicity. I told them I am going legal, so don’t send me messages, come to court," Santosh Kumar reportedly told the media.
The writer further claimed that he attempted to reach out to the filmmaker and associated production houses but did not receive direct engagement. “I could not reach director Aditya Dhar. I contacted the production house, Jio Studios. They said we are just producers, you have to discuss this with B62 Studios. I am filing a case against them. The producers are harassing me for making the story public… I told them, ‘Come and legally answer me’," he added.
In a video shared on social media, Santosh elaborated on his allegations, stating that he believes Dhurandhar 2 is based on his original script. He also claimed to have substantial proof to support his case. He was seen saying, “You must have seen the movie Dhurandhar 2. It's a very good movie. After watching this movie, I came to know that this is my script, my story. I worked very hard in 2023. And in 2023, I came here and narrated a lot of companies. Because they were saying that if you want a big actor, bring a corporate actor. So to get a corporate actor, I went to Sony, Zee, T-Series, Dharma Productions."
He further detailed his efforts to develop and circulate the script within the industry, while also mentioning his registration with the Screenwriter Association. He went on to continue, “I wanted Aditya Roy Kapoor for the script of this movie. So I tried a lot. I sent stories to a lot of people. And I am a member of Screenwriter Association. I registered my story there in November 2023. I have all the proofs. I have all the mail communications. I have all the photos. I have all the sketches. I have all the scripts. You can see everything. I will be disclosing this. And also I am putting a case on this movie. Because they have made a good movie. I don't have a case for that."
Santosh also alleged that the film altered the essence of his story, claiming it was turned into something he did not intend. “Because they have exploited my story. I made this movie for cinema entertainment. But they made this movie politically propaganda. It is hurting me. I want to share a lot of my feelings today. So this is what I wanted to say this with the media people. To reach the public. Because there are a lot of innocent writers like me. A lot of people are from the south.", he shared.
He concluded by highlighting what he described as a broader issue affecting aspiring writers in the industry. “A lot of people come from the states and try a lot. A lot of people think that the production team will support them. But this is not happening. They are copying the story and exploiting it. What happened to me cannot happen to anyone else. That is why I will put maximum effort. That a lot of people should know what happened to us. So thank you friends.”, he concluded.
धुरंधर की कामयाबी के बीच यह नई कहानी लाए है, गजब ही है।
"धुरंधर 2 देखने के बाद पता चला कि यह मेरी स्क्रिप्ट है। मेरी कहानी है। जिसे चोरी किया गया। कहानी मैंने मनोरंजन के लिए बनाई थी, लेकिन इन लोगों ने फिल्म राजनीतिक प्रोपेगेंडा बना दिया।" pic.twitter.com/OKvAxQUtM4 — Arvind Sharma (@sarviind) March 31, 2026
As the dispute intensifies, the controversy has put a spotlight on intellectual property concerns within the film industry. With both sides standing firm, the matter now appears headed for a legal showdown, which could determine the validity of the claims and set a precedent for similar disputes in the future.
Also Read: Tanuja picks ‘director’ Aditya Dhar over Ranveer Singh as the hero of ‘Dhurandhar’; calls it a ‘landmark’ film in fun review with Tanishaa Mukerji
read moreSCOOP: Sequel of Kangana Ranaut-starrer Queen likely to be titled Queen Forever
A few days ago, reports came in that the sequel to Kangana Ranaut’s iconic film, Queen (2014), is in the works. According to the article in Mid-Day, the film will be directed by Vikas Bahl, who also helmed the first part, and is set to go on floors in April. Bollywood Hungama has learned that the film won't be called Queen 2 and that the makers have a title in mind.
A source told Bollywood Hungama, “The makers had several options for the film’s title and the one that has really caught their eye is Queen Forever. If all goes well, this will be what the film will be called.”
The source continued, “The makers feel Queen Forever is the apt title and that it suits the film’s subject. They are expected to finalize it very soon and make an official announcement, hopefully before the film’s shoot begins.”
Bollywood Hungama has also learned that Amit Chandrra of Trigger Happy Entertainment will be producing Queen Forever. His banner, Trigger Happy Studios, earlier produced the Farhan Akhtar-starrer 120 Bahadur along with Excel Entertainment.
As per the Mid-Day story, in Queen’s sequel, Kangana Ranaut’s character, Rani, will not go to foreign shores. Instead, she’ll travel to different cities across India while also embarking on a journey of self-discovery.
About Queen Besides Kangana Ranaut, Queen also starred Rajkummar Rao, Lisa Haydon, Nayani Dixit and others. It was produced by Vikramaditya Motwane and Anurag Kashyap of Phantom Films, along with Viacom18 Motion Pictures, and told the story of a girl left devastated after her fiancé calls off their wedding at the last minute. Nevertheless, she decides to go on her honeymoon alone. How this trip transforms her life completely formed the rest of the film.
Queen emerged as a pathbreaking film and was loved for its subject, progressive theme, treatment, award-winning performance by Kangana Ranaut and music by Amit Trivedi. The film opened at just Rs. 1.75 crores and then went on to earn Rs. 61 crores in its lifetime through sheer word of mouth. It was also a rare film in the 2010s to collect more in Week 2 than in Week 1.
Also Read: Vicky Kaushal, Kangana Ranaut and others shower love on Dhurandhar franchise; applaud Aditya Dhar and his work
read moreBREAKING: Anurag Kashyap’s Dev D to re-release on April 24
In the pre-Gangs Of Wasseypur (2012) era, it was Dev D (2009) that made Anurag Kashyap a force to reckon with. It attained a cult following and 17 years after its release, it's all set to re-release in cinemas on April 24.
As per an article in Bombay Times, the Abhay Deol-Kalki Koechlin-Mahie Gill starrer will be back on the big screen, but only in select theatres. It also carried quotes of Anurag Kashyap, Abhay Deol, Kalki Koechlin and music director Amit Trivedi. Anurag said, “To see Dev D return to the big screen feels special. It’s a film meant to be experienced collectively with Amit Trivedi’s music and Rajeev Ravi’s cinematography powering the narrative. I am curious to see how the new generation responds to it.”
Kalki Koechlin revealed, “I remember being so nervous about my Hindi lines that every morning on set, I would practise all my vowels and consonants in Devanagari to get the pronunciation right. The best part about shooting the film was not knowing anything about filmmaking, because it meant I didn’t care about the camera angle or how I looked on camera.”
Interestingly, it was lead actor Abhay Deol who suggested the idea of the film to Anurag. He explained, “I remember when I would narrate the idea of Dev D, the most common reaction I got was that it was ‘too arty’ to be made. When I narrated it to Anurag, I didn’t tell him it was a contemporary treatment. I just narrated a love story. He did not guess what I was actually narrating, and when I revealed that it was a contemporary Devdas, he went quiet for 20 minutes, imagining it in his head. He loved the idea of treating it with a musical score that would take the story forward, one song at a time. Although he went with a different ending (my idea remains Dev dying in the end), my thought was to call out Devdas’ misogyny and highlight the women’s resilience. It’s my only idea that got made into a movie.”
Amit Trivedi’s career also got a boost with Dev D. He stated, “Each song was deeply rooted in the narrative, whether it was the wild energy of ‘Emosanal Attyachaar’ or the quiet ache of ‘Nayan Tarse’. When the film was released, something shifted for me and helped me find my voice as a composer.”
About Dev D Dev D was a contemporary reimagining of the classic Bengali novel Devdas by Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay and was produced by Ronnie Screwvala. While Abhay Deol played Dev, Mahie Gill essayed the role of Paro. Kalki Koechlin was launched with this film and she played Chanda. Nawazuddin Siddiqui featured in an entertaining cameo as a band singer in the song ‘Emosanal Attyachar’.
Also Read: Tanuja picks ‘director’ Aditya Dhar over Ranveer Singh as the hero of ‘Dhurandhar’; calls it a ‘landmark’ film in fun review with Tanishaa Mukerji
read moreHera Pheri 3 Row: Writer Rohan Shankar breaks silence, calls exit reports ‘fake news’
The buzz surrounding Hera Pheri 3 refuses to die down, and the latest controversy involves writer Rohan Shankar, who has now addressed rumours about his alleged exit from the much-anticipated comedy sequel. After several reports claimed that the writer had stepped away from the project, Shankar has firmly denied the speculation, calling it misleading.
Taking to social media, the writer clarified that the claims were baseless and stemmed from a misinterpretation of his earlier comments. He stated, “Some fake news is being spread in my name about a big film. It’s completely false and has almost no truth in it. A simple interview about my work and cinema has been taken out of context and made into a clickbait headline. Please ignore it.”
The confusion appears to have originated from a recent interview where Shankar spoke about the challenges surrounding the film’s development. While he acknowledged being in discussions for the screenplay, he also pointed out that the project is currently facing delays due to ongoing legal complications. His remarks about scheduling issues, including director Priyadarshan being occupied with other projects, were reportedly misconstrued as confirmation of his exit.
Some fake news is being spread in my name about a big film. It’s completely false and has almost no truth in it. A simple interview about my work and cinema has been taken out of context and turned into a clickbait headline. Please ignore it🙏 — Rohan Shankar (@RohanShankar06) April 2, 2026
The third installment of the beloved franchise, featuring the iconic trio of Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal, has been facing multiple hurdles since its announcement. One of the major issues revolves around a legal dispute over the rights to the franchise, which is currently being contested in court.
Additionally, the film has also seen internal challenges, including reported creative differences that briefly led to Paresh Rawal stepping away from the project earlier this year. However, the situation was later resolved, with Suniel Shetty reportedly playing a key role in bringing the team back together.
Despite these setbacks, Hera Pheri 3 continues to generate strong interest among fans eager to see the return of the beloved characters. However, with legal matters still unresolved and the creative team juggling other commitments, the timeline for the film remains uncertain.
For now, Rohan Shankar’s clarification puts an end to speculation about his involvement, even as the larger questions surrounding the future of Hera Pheri 3 continue to linger.
Also Read: Hera Pheri 3 Row: Vijay Kumar claims ‘100 percent’ IP ownership amid legal battle with Firoz Nadiadwala
read moreSunny Leone bags Hollywood series The Giant; set to play Sheriff in major international project
Sunny Leone is continuing her global journey with an exciting new project, as she joins the cast of the upcoming US-based series The Giant. Following the positive response to her performance in Kennedy, the actor is now gearing up to explore a completely different space with this international venture.
Created and written by Kevin B Ploth, the series is backed by ARTIMIS Theatrical Productions LLC, a veteran-run production company known for supporting distinctive storytelling. Sunny Leone will be seen playing the role of Reservation Sheriff Quanah Deerleaf, a character that adds a new dimension to her evolving filmography.
Sharing her excitement about the project, Sunny said, “This is something very different from what I’ve done before, and that’s what really excited me about it. Exploring a new character and stepping into a completely new space is always a thrilling experience for me. I’m looking forward to this journey and giving it my all. I hope my fans enjoy watching it as much as I am enjoying being a part of it, and I truly hope they’re as excited as I am for what’s coming next.”
Over the years, Sunny Leone has consistently experimented with her roles, moving across genres, industries, and formats. From Bollywood films to digital platforms and now international productions, she has steadily built a diverse body of work that reflects her willingness to take on new challenges.
Her role in The Giant is expected to further expand her presence in the global entertainment space. Playing a sheriff in an American series marks a significant shift from her previous roles and signals her intent to explore more character-driven narratives on an international scale.
The series is also supported by notable sponsors including 51Fifty Rifles, Marathon Watch, and PROPPER Uniforms, with the latter providing uniforms and everyday armor for the production. While further details about the storyline and release timeline remain under wraps, the announcement has already sparked curiosity among fans.
With filming set to begin soon, The Giant adds another noteworthy project to Sunny Leone’s growing international portfolio, reinforcing her position as an actor willing to push boundaries and embrace new creative opportunities.
Also Read: Sunny Leone on working with Anurag Kashyap in Kennedy, “I didn’t get to read the whole script but he gave me a basic story of what it is”
read moreRashmika Mandanna returns to Crunchyroll Anime Awards 2026; is all set to shine again on global stage in Tokyo
Rashmika Mandanna is set to make another global appearance as she returns as a presenter at the 10th edition of the Crunchyroll Anime Awards. The ceremony is scheduled to be held on May 23, 2026, at the Grand Prince Hotel Shin Takanawa, marking her second stint at the prestigious event.
The actress had previously created history in 2024 by becoming the first Indian celebrity to present an award at the ceremony. Her return this year further highlights her growing global presence and the increasing connection between Indian audiences and international entertainment platforms. Rashmika took to her Instagram stories, where she shared this announcement along with the caption, "Back to Japan. To celebrate the incredible people behind anime".
The Anime Awards are among the most prominent celebrations of Japanese animation, recognising excellence across a wide range of categories. Winners are decided through a combination of jury evaluation and fan votes from across the world. This year, Rashmika Mandanna will share the stage with a diverse group of international presenters, including Asuka Saito, Danna Paola, and Winston Duke.
Rashmika has often expressed her admiration for anime as a storytelling medium, naming popular titles like Jujutsu Kaisen and Demon Slayer among her personal favourites. Her association with the platform extends beyond appearances, as she currently serves as a brand ambassador for Crunchyroll in India, further strengthening her connection with the anime community.
The announcement comes during a significant phase in her life. The actress recently tied the knot with actor Vijay Deverakonda in a private ceremony held in Udaipur, followed by a grand celebration in Hyderabad. The couple, known for their on-screen chemistry in films like Geetha Govindam, continues to remain in the spotlight.
On the professional front, Rashmika has an impressive lineup of projects. She will next be seen in Cocktail 2 alongside Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon as the Homi Adajania directorial is all set to hit screens on June 19, 2026. She is set to reunite with Vijay Deverakonda in the period action film Ranabaali, directed by Rahul Sankrityan. In addition, she will be seen in Mysa, a tribal action drama that has already piqued audience interest.
With major projects like Pushpa 3: The Rampage also in the pipeline, Rashmika Mandanna continues to balance a thriving film career with international recognition. Her return to the Anime Awards underscores her expanding global footprint, making her one of the few Indian actors to seamlessly bridge regional cinema and global pop culture.
Also Read: Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna resume work together for Ranabaali: “They are just co-stars on the set”
read moreArjun Rampal starrer Billionaire sparks speculation: Is he playing Vijay Mallya or Lalit Modi in Hansal Mehta’s next?
Following the success of Dhurandhar and Dhurandhar The Revenge, Arjun Rampal is gearing up for his next major project, an upcoming OTT series titled Billionaire. Helmed by acclaimed filmmaker Hansal Mehta, the show has already generated significant curiosity, particularly around the character Rampal is set to portray.
Positioned as an intense and layered story about a powerful business tycoon, Billionaire is expected to explore themes of ambition, influence, and the price of success. While the makers have remained tight-lipped about specific plot details, the premise alone has sparked widespread speculation about whether the narrative draws inspiration from real-life figures.
Among the names frequently being discussed is that of Vijay Mallya. Known for his flamboyant lifestyle and once being dubbed the “King of Good Times,” Mallya’s rise in the business world and subsequent controversies make his story a compelling reference point for a screen adaptation. His journey—from building a vast empire to facing legal and financial troubles—offers the kind of dramatic arc often seen in high-stakes storytelling.
Another personality that has entered the conversation is Lalit Modi, the former IPL chairman credited with transforming cricket into a global entertainment spectacle. His role in shaping the league and the controversies that followed have made him a subject of public intrigue, leading to speculation that Billionaire could incorporate elements reminiscent of his life, particularly the world of power dynamics and boardroom conflicts.
At the same time, industry chatter suggests that the series may not directly depict any one individual. Instead, it could blend characteristics from multiple real-life figures to create a fictional yet recognisable tycoon. This approach would allow the makers to explore complex themes while maintaining creative flexibility.
For Hansal Mehta, Billionaire appears to be a natural progression, given his track record of delivering critically acclaimed, reality-inspired dramas, including his widely appreciated Scam series. His storytelling style, often rooted in real events and layered characters, has set expectations high for this new venture.
The series is co-directed by Robbie Grewal and written by Anubhav Chopra and Shantanu Sagara. It is being produced by Prabhleen Sandhu under the banner Almighty Motion Picture and will be released on Amazon MX Player as part of its expanding slate of original content.
While official details about the storyline remain under wraps, the ongoing speculation has only added to the anticipation. Whether Arjun Rampal’s character is inspired by Vijay Mallya, Lalit Modi, or a composite of multiple personalities, Billionaire has already positioned itself as one of the most talked-about upcoming series in the OTT space.
Also Read: Arjun Rampal gets emotional after Dhurandhar success; says “I am over the moon” as fans and industry shower praise
read moreEXCLUSIVE: From 6 IMAX shows on Day 1 to 108 a day in Week 2, Project Hail Mary proves unstoppable as audience demand explodes; The Super Mario Galaxy Movie secures 66 shows; Dhurandhar The Revenge down to 21 shows
Last week, Bollywood Hungama did a viral story that on the day of its release, March 26, Project Hail Mary was able to secure shows in only 6 out of 34 IMAX screens in India. Thanks to the impact of the Bollywood Hungama article, relentless efforts by the Sony Pictures team and sustained pressure from the fans, the exhibitors finally relented. From March 27, all the theatres of IMAX started playing Project Hail Mary. The demand was such that Eros Cinema even played a show at 3:45 am on Saturday, March 28 and Sunday, March 29. Yesterday, it came to light that the Hollywood studio again had to put up a tough fight to get shows for their film in its second week. What complicated the matter is not just Jio Studios’ insistence for IMAX shows in Dhurandhar The Revenge but also persuasion by Universal Pictures to play The Super Mario Galaxy Movie.
Bollywood Hungama has now learned that the issue has been resolved and Project Hail Mary has emerged victorious. A source told us, “Project Hail Mary now has 108 shows across 34 IMAX screens in India. As for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, it will play 66 shows. Meanwhile, Dhurandhar The Revenge will have 21 shows a day. In short, Sony has secured nearly 2x the IMAX shows compared to Mario and 5x compared to Dhurandhar 2 this week. It now has more showcasing than Week 1.”
The source continued, “The demand for Project Hail Mary in IMAX refuses to die down. It’s a film shot in IMAX and hence, it ideally deserves more shows in IMAX. It took a while, but finally, Project Hail Mary managed to get what it deserved from the first day.”
From April 3, Dhurandhar The Revenge will only play post 11:30 pm in Mumbai's Inox R City Ghatkopar, Miraj Wadala, Cinepolis Seawoods and Inox Sky City Mall Borivali and at 6:55 pm at Eros. A similar arrangement can also be seen in the IMAX cinemas in Delhi, Bengaluru, Pune, Chennai, Kolkata and Coimbatore.
Meanwhile, many IMAX cinemas like Mumbai's PVR IMAX Lower Parel, Cinepolis Thane, Inox Maison BKC, PVR Superplex Logix Noida, PVR Ambience Gurugram, PVR Superplex Noida, PVR Select City Walk Delhi, Cinepolis Centre Square Kochi, PVR Lulu Trivandrum etc. have discontinued Dhurandhar The Revenge from April 3. On the other hand, the 3:00 am show will continue for Project Hail Mary in Eros this week as well. Many theatres will also have shows at 6:00 am and 7:00 am.
As per reports, the first week collections of Project Hail Mary are around Rs. 25-26 crores. It is all set for a lifetime north of Rs. 50 crores, looking at the extraordinary trend.
Also Read: Project Hail Mary vs Dhurandhar The Revenge Round 2: Tussle begins over IMAX show sharing for next week; The Super Mario Galaxy Movie also joins the fray
read moreEXCLUSIVE: Namit Malhotra rejects historic Rs. 700 crore OTT bid for Ranbir Kapoor-Yash’s Ramayana; eyes a staggering Rs. 1000 crore deal
Namit Malhotra is turning out to be a brave producer, as he has gone all out to bring the epic tale of history Ramayana, to the big screen. The teaser dropped a day back, and it reflects the grandeur of the film with Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram. With a production budget of Rs. 4000 crores for the two films combined, the stakes are at an all-time high, and yet Namit is backing his vision with the utmost conviction.
Instead of derisking the film by selling digital, satellite and music rights, Namit is holding it all close to his chest. "Namit received an offer of Rs. 700 crores for both the films put together, which is the highest ever by a margin for an Indian Film. But he took no time to reject the offer. Given the mammoth cost of Rs. 4000 crore, Namit and his team feel that Ramayana deserves more as it's a legacy film that will speak to generations ahead. He is expecting Rs. 1000 crore deal from OTT players, leaving Rs. 3000 crores to be recovered from other sources, including global theatrical," a source informed Bollywood Hungama
The source also informs that Namit is confident that the players will escalate their offers once they see more from the world of Ramayana. "It's a film that gives all platforms a global reach. And Rs. 1000 crores for two films put together is a rather good price given the potential. He is holding the rights close to his chest and will partner with the right player at the right price. There's a possibility for him to sell just part one now, and hold back on part two till the release of part one, a strategy that team Dhurandhar opted for."
Ramayana stars Ranbir Kapoor, Yash, Sai Pallavi and Sunny Deol in the lead. The film is confirmed for a Diwali 2026 release.
Also Read: Ramayana: Ranbir Kapoor is not the first one to play Lord Ram from the Kapoors! Want to know more? Read Inside
read moreHoney Singh, Badshah face legal trouble over controversial track ‘Volume 1’: Delhi High Court orders immediate removal
In a major development that has caught the music industry’s attention, the Delhi High Court has ordered the immediate removal of the controversial track ‘Volume 1’, associated with rappers Honey Singh and Badshah from their early days as part of the Mafia Mundeer group.
The court took a strong stand against the song, stating that its lyrics are highly inappropriate, offensive, and disrespectful towards women. It made it clear that such content has no place in a society that upholds basic standards of decency, especially when it is widely accessible on digital platforms. Going a step further, the judge remarked that even the title of the song was too objectionable to be officially recorded in the court’s order, underlining the seriousness of the issue.
As part of its directive, the court instructed both singers, along with anyone holding rights to the track or its variations, to ensure that all links featuring the song — whether original, remixed, or altered — are taken down immediately. This includes removal from social media platforms, streaming services, and any other online spaces where the track might be available.
The case came up after a petition was filed by an organisation, which demanded that the song be removed from major platforms like YouTube, Google, and Spotify. The plea also highlighted that Honey Singh had recently performed parts of the song at a concert, reinforcing his connection to it.
After reviewing the content privately, the court expressed deep concern, stating that the lyrics were not only vulgar but also stripped of any meaningful artistic or social value. It observed that the song portrays women in a degrading manner and turns them into objects of mockery.
The court also stressed that allowing such material to remain online — where it can be accessed by people of all ages, including minors — cannot be justified in the name of creative freedom. According to the judge, the song crosses all acceptable limits and reflects a complete disregard for societal norms.
In addition to the immediate takedown order, notices have been issued to the artists involved. The petitioner has been given permission to identify more links or versions of the song and share them with the government, which will then ensure their removal from various platforms.
Authorities have assured the court that any complaints regarding remaining content will be acted upon swiftly. The petitioner can also directly report newly found links through official grievance systems of online platforms.
The matter is scheduled to be heard again on May 7, as the court continues to monitor compliance with its strict directions.
Also Read: Yo Yo Honey Singh and AP Dhillon drop ‘Aadat’ music video featuring Vaani Kapoor; fans call it a power-packed visual treat
read more