Bollywood
Ikkis release postponed: Agastya Nanda starrer will now become the first release of January 2026
Ikkis, the highly anticipated war drama marking the theatrical debut of Amitabh Bachchan’s grandson Agastya Nanda, has officially postponed its release date. Originally slated for December 25, the film will now hit theatres on January 1, 2026, positioning itself as the very first Bollywood release of the new year.
The announcement came via Maddock Films’ social media, where the makers teased fans with a powerful message: “This new year, gift yourself courage. Final #Ikkis trailer drops this weekend in theatres. A new chapter unfolds in legendary director Sriram Raghavan’s first war film. The true story of India’s youngest Paramveer Chakra Awarded, Second Lt. Arun Khetarpal. Some heroes die young. Experience courage in cinemas. #Ikkis releasing on 1st January 2026.”
Sources close to the production revealed that producer Dinesh Vijan opted for a strategic shift to avoid box-office clashes, a formula that previously worked wonders for films like Hindi Medium and Chhaava. This move ensures a clear theatrical run for Ikkis, giving it the spotlight it deserves.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sriram Raghavan, known for his mastery in thrillers, Ikkis marks his first foray into the war genre. The film is based on true events from the 1971 Indo-Pak War, chronicling the heroic story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra for his unparalleled bravery.
Apart from Agastya Nanda, the film boasts a stellar cast including Jaideep Ahlawat, Simar Bhatia, Sikander Kher, and others. Adding an emotional layer, Ikkis will also serve as a posthumous release for the legendary Dharmendra, making it a cinematic milestone.
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With its gripping narrative, patriotic fervor, and star-studded ensemble, Ikkis promises to be more than just a film—it’s a tribute to courage and sacrifice. As the countdown to January 1 begins, fans can expect the final trailer to drop this weekend, setting the tone for an unforgettable start to 2026.
Also Read: Yash Raj Films to release Ikkis overseas; industry heavyweights Aditya Chopra and Dinesh Vijan collaborate for the FOURTH time in 2025
read moreShilpa Shetty breaks silence on Rs. 60 crore fraud allegations – here’s what she said
Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty has issued a strong clarification on social media amid mounting allegations in a Rs. 60.48 crore fraud case linked to her defunct venture, Best Deal TV. Her statement comes as legal proceedings intensify and questions about her foreign travel permissions dominate headlines.
The actress issued an official statement on her Instagram story, addressing the matter, “We categorically deny the baseless and motivated allegations being circulated. The issues sought to be raised are being given a criminal colour without any lawful basis. A Quashing Petition has already been filed before the Hon'ble High Court and is pending adjudication. Having fully cooperated with the investigation, we are sanguine that justice will prevail and have complete faith in the law enforcement authorities and the judicial system of our country. We respectfully urge the media to exercise restraint as the matter is sub judice.”
The Bombay High Court has directed Shetty and her husband, businessman Raj Kundra, to deposit Rs. 60 crore or furnish a continuous bank guarantee from a nationalised bank before considering lifting the Lookout Circular that currently restricts their overseas travel. The order came during a hearing on their urgent plea to visit London for Kundra’s ailing father. The LOC was issued by Mumbai Police’s Economic Offences Wing following a complaint by UY Industries Pvt Ltd director Deepak Kothari, alleging misappropriation of funds invested in Best Deal TV between 2015 and 2023. The couple has denied any wrongdoing, calling the allegations malicious and aimed at extortion.
Meanwhile, the actress’ upscale restaurant chain Bastian too has been facing multiple issues. A Bengaluru police station has filed a complaint against the outlet under Section 103 of the Karnataka Police Act for hosting a lavish private bash, allegedly flouting local regulations by remaining open well past the stipulated closing time. Along with that, another set of reports have suggested that Bastian’s Mumbai outlet in Dadar faced an income tax raid on Wednesday, while details of the search operation remain undisclosed.
Also Read: Bengaluru Police book Shilpa Shetty-owned Bastian for late-night operations
read moreShaad Randhawa joins Sooraj Barjatya’s next after Saiyaara and Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat success
Actor Shaad Randhawa has had a busy 2025 with three releases during the year. Two of these, Saiyaara and Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat, performed strongly at the box office. Building on that momentum, the actor has now signed a new project with a legacy production house.
Shaad Randhawa will next appear in filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya’s upcoming directorial, which features Ayushmann Khurrana in the lead. The project marks his first collaboration with the Barjatya banner, and the actor has already begun shooting for the film.
Shaad informed, “All I can say is that this is a completely different role from anything I’ve portrayed before. This film is extremely special to me, as it has always been a dream to work with Sooraj ji. I am deeply grateful to Sooraj ji and Mukesh Chhabra bhai for giving me this opportunity.”
While details of the film are being kept under wraps, Ayushmann Khurrana has shared that he plays a character named Prem, a role that differs slightly from the traditional family entertainers associated with Sooraj Barjatya. He has described the film as carrying a strong message without being preachy, with its tone and genre sitting somewhere between Barjatya’s filmmaking sensibilities and the kind of films Ayushmann is known for.
Also Read : BH OTT India Fest 2025: Shaad Randhawa on how Harshvardhan Rane won his heart on Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat sets: “He told me, ‘You speak my first 5 lines…RARELY seen an actor do that”
read moreTaskaree teaser drops on Netflix; Emraan Hashmi turns customs officer in this high-stakes world of airport smuggling
Netflix is set to kick off 2026 with a bang as Neeraj Pandey and Emraan Hashmi join forces for Taskaree: The Smuggler’s Web, a crime thriller that promises edge-of-your-seat excitement. The show takes viewers behind the scenes of airport customs—a world rarely explored on screen—where every suitcase could hide a secret and every passenger might be a suspect. At the center of this high-pressure environment is Superintendent Arjun Meena, played by Emraan Hashmi, a calm and calculating officer determined to dismantle smuggling networks ranging from luxury goods to international syndicates.
This marks Neeraj Pandey’s fourth collaboration with Netflix and his first with Hashmi, a pairing that promises precision, pace, and globe-trotting thrills. Pandey brings his signature storytelling style—sharp, grounded, and layered with tension—while Hashmi steps into a refreshing new avatar as a leader whose instincts are as lethal as his strategies. Elaborating on this collab, Neeraj Pandey said, “Airports are familiar to all of us, yet what unfolds behind the scenes is rarely seen. The world of customs is not something that has been explored on screen, and that was part of the appeal in our endeavour to introduce our audiences to a new unexplored world which is quiet, disciplined, and high-pressure. With Taskaree, we bring together an ensemble that could reflect the complexity with depth and conviction. And as always Netflix continues to be a strong partner in supporting stories that are rooted, authentic, and built for scale.”
Emraan Hashmi reflected on his role and added, “Taskaree was exciting for me on many levels. It’s my first time working with Neeraj Pandey and stepping into his world. Playing a customs officer is new territory for me, and Arjun Meena isn’t loud or flashy, he’s calm, observant, and always thinking two steps ahead. I enjoyed stepping into that space. I’m really looking forward to audiences seeing me in this new role. Partnering with Netflix and Neeraj sir makes it even more special, it’s makers that encourage stories like this to be told at scale.”
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Adding to the anticipation, Tanya Bami, Series Head at Netflix India, shared, “We are excited to kick off 2026 with a show that introduces audiences to the high-stakes, unseen world of airport customs. With sharp and quirky tones and unpredictable twists Taskaree has everything that makes for a compelling thriller. Filmed across four countries and multiple international airports, the show unpacks an intricate smuggler’s network in classic Neeraj Pandey style. It offers a fresh, immersive perspective that will be relatable for anyone who has ever taken a flight. We’re delighted to have Emraan headline the show, especially after the overwhelming love and fandom he received for his cameo in The Ba***ds of Bollywood.”
Apart from Hashmi, the ensemble cast also includes Sharad Kelkar, Amruta Khanvilkar, Nandish Singh Sandhu, Anurag Sinha, and Zoya Afroz, adding grit and intensity to a narrative where tension never clocks out. Produced by Friday Storytellers and directed by Raghav Jairath, the series premieres globally on January 14, 2026.
Also Read: Emraan Hashmi and Raghav Juyal’s hilarious Spotify wrapped reunion takes internet by storm; watch
read moreDhurandhar becomes first Bollywood film with all songs charting on Spotify Global Top 200
Dhurandhar has marked a notable moment for Indian film music, becoming the first Bollywood film to see all tracks from its soundtrack chart simultaneously on the Spotify Global Top 200, along with a full presence on India’s national charts. Composed and produced by Shashwat Sachdev, the album has delivered a rare and wide-ranging chart performance for a Hindi film soundtrack.
On Spotify India, all 11 tracks from the album are currently charting inside the Top 200, making Dhurandhar the first Indian film album to place 11 out of 11 songs on the chart at the same time. The title track stands at #3, with ‘Ishq Jalakar’, ‘Karvaan’ at #5 and ‘Gehra Hua’ at #7, while the remaining tracks continue to hold strong positions across the chart reflecting sustained listener engagement across the full album rather than isolated singles.
The album’s impact extends well beyond India. Dhurandhar debuted at #2 on Spotify’s Global Top Albums chart and at #5 on Spotify’s US Top Albums chart, underscoring the soundtrack’s international reach and its crossover appeal among global listeners. These rankings place Dhurandhar among the highest-debuting Indian film albums on Spotify worldwide.
On Apple Music India, Dhurandhar has secured the #1 album position, with tracks from the soundtrack simultaneously dominating individual song charts. The performance highlights a rare convergence of album listening and song-level discovery across platforms.
With Dhurandhar, Shashwat Sachdev presents a soundtrack that spans multiple styles, from score-driven compositions to contemporary, hip-hop-influenced tracks and emotion-led songs, while remaining cohesive as an album. The breadth of its chart presence reflects both its sonic range and its appeal across a wide audience base.
Reacting to the achievement, the composer, super producer Shashwat Sachdev stated, “I never imagined this album as a chase for numbers. Dhurandhar was made slowly, with trust, friendship, and a lot of love for the music itself. To see all eleven tracks finding a place on the charts and a few of them living at the very top is deeply humbling. This belongs to every artist, musician, engineer, and collaborator who gave a piece of their soul to these songs. I’m grateful beyond words, and I’m just happy the music found its people.”
The achievement follows Sachdev’s recent work on The Ba***ds of Bollywood and further reinforces his standing as one of the few Indian composers whose film music regularly finds global streaming traction. In that context, Dhurandhar stands out as a significant milestone for Bollywood music on the international stage.
Also Read : Akshaye Khanna keeps it low-key after ‘Dhurandhar’ success, performs Vastu Shanti hawan at Alibaug home
read moreHomebound makes Oscars 2026 shortlist in Best International Feature Film category
Homebound, the critically acclaimed Hindi drama directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, has been officially selected as India’s entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards and has now been shortlisted by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences as one of the contenders moving forward in the awards process.
The film starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor was chosen by the Film Federation of India from a competitive list of 24 films submitted this year, cementing its place as the nation’s representative on cinema’s biggest global stage.
In the shortlist announced this week, Homebound is among only 15 international films advancing toward final nominations for the Best International Feature Film Award, marking a significant achievement for Indian cinema ahead of the Oscars scheduled in March 2026.
Homebound tells the poignant journey of two childhood friends striving to become police officers to earn dignity and respect in a system shaped by caste and socioeconomic divides.
Producer Karan Johar reacted emotionally to the film’s Oscars shortlist announcement, taking to social media to share his pride. He wrote, “I am not sure I can articulate how proud, elated and over the moon I am with the journey of #HOMEBOUND… all of us @dharmamovies are privileged to have this proud and important film in our filmography … thank you @neeraj.ghaywan for making so many dreams of ours come true… from Cannes to being on the Oscar shortlist this has been such an overwhelming journey! Love to the entire cast and crew and teams of this special special film!!!!!!!!! Upwards and onwards…….. #HOMEBOUND streaming now on @netflix_in.”
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The film has already earned international recognition after its premiere in the Un Certain Regard section at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, where it received a nine‑minute standing ovation from audiences. It also screened at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where it won the International People’s Choice Award as second runner‑up.
Industry insiders and audiences have celebrated Homebound’s selection, seeing it as a testament to the depth of India’s cinematic storytelling. Key cast and crew members expressed excitement as the film’s Oscar campaign progresses, with many hoping it will secure a nomination when the final list is announced early next year.
Also Read : Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa react to Shah Rukh Khan showering love on Homebound
read moreEXCLUSIVE: Unlike Avatar: The Way Of Water, CBFC passes Avatar: Fire And Ash with ZERO cuts
The biggest Hollywood film of the year, Avatar: Fire And Ash, is all set to release two days from now and the excitement is tremendous. In this exclusive article, Bollywood Hungama will inform readers about the censor process of the James Cameraon directorial.
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) passed Avatar: Fire And Ash with a U/A 16+ certificate on December 11, 2025. The past films of this series have consisted of abusive language and disturbing violent scenes. Hence, there was an apprehension that the third part of the blockbuster franchise might also have to suffer cuts.
But thankfully, the Examining Committee of Avatar: Fire And Ash passed the film without a single visual cut. They didn’t even ask for any dialogue or words to be muted, deleted or replaced. It now remains to be seen whether Avatar: Fire And Ash doesn’t have profanities at all or did the studio self-censor the cuss words before applying for a certificate.
The length of the film, as mentioned on the censor certificate, is 197.21 minutes. In other words, Avatar: Fire And Ash is 3 hours, 17 minutes and 21 seconds long. This makes Avatar: Fire And Ash the lengthiest film of the franchise. The first part, Avatar (2009), was 162 minutes long while Avatar: The Way Of Water (2022) had a run time of 192.10 minutes.
In December 2022, Bollywood Hungama had exclusively reported that Avatar: The Way Of Water went through several cuts courtesy the CBFC. As many as 12 cuss words and terms were muted in 18 places in the film. These words and terms are ‘p***s face’, ‘b***h’, ‘a**’, ‘f*****g’, ‘s**t’, ‘b***holes, ‘dips**t’, ‘son of a b***h’, ‘a**-whipping’, ‘bats**t’, ‘a**hole’ and ‘f**k’.
Coming back to Avatar: Fire And Ash, it releases worldwide on December 19, 2025. The first part was the story of a group of humans trying to colonize Pandora, a habitable moon, in order to mine the valuable unobtanium. This activity threatens the existence of a local tribe of Na'vi, a humanoid species indigenous to Pandora. How a human joins the Na'vi tribe and defeats his species formed the crux of the film. In Avatar: The Way Of Water, the human has turned into Na'vi and has started a family. However, he’s compelled to seek refuge with an aquatic clan under renewed human threat.
Also Read: Experience Pandora like never before: Fire and Ash preview plays with Avatar: The way of water
read moreCornerstone announces CXA, a ‘new-age entertainment and talent agency’ led by Bunty Sajdeh and Prarthana Ajmani
Cornerstone, one of India’s leading brand and talent management companies, and Armour Entertainment, led by Prarthana Ajmani, have announced a strategic partnership, marking a new phase in the long-term plans of both agencies. As part of the alliance, Bollywood actor Tiger Shroff has been signed as the first talent.
The collaboration points to a renewed focus on the evolving entertainment and talent ecosystem at a time of industry change. It reflects a joint effort by Bunty Sajdeh and Prarthana Ajmani to create a streamlined and integrated setup, with an emphasis on structure, long-term growth and consistent talent development across platforms.
Together, Cornerstone and Armour combine their respective strengths. Cornerstone’s experience in developing and positioning talent across sports and entertainment complements Armour Entertainment’s management approach, supported by Prarthana Ajmani’s industry experience and professional network built over years of working with leading actors. The partnership brings together complementary capabilities aimed at creating a cohesive ecosystem focused on credibility, brand development and comprehensive talent management.
Bunty Sajdeh, CEO, Cornerstone, said, “Look at Hollywood and you’ll see how the talent management approach has always worked in the West. There are unique skill sets that are clearly defined strategic, long-term brand and wealth building, alongside specialised talent management that is an industry in itself when done correctly and holistically. Both are equally important and must work hand in hand to ensure maximum output. I’ve known Prarthana for many years and have always admired her professionalism and strategic mindset, so when the opportunity arose to join hands, it was an easy decision.”
Prarthana Ajmani, CEO, Armour, added, “With CXA, we’re building a system that is structured, future-ready and truly talent-first. Partnering with Cornerstone brings together the strengths of two teams driven by excellence. On a personal level, Bunty’s strategic clarity and faith in my abilities have been key driving forces in this collaboration. I’m thrilled to embark on this journey with him."
Also Read : Dharma Productions relaunches talent arm as Dharma Collab Artists Agency after acquiring Cornerstone’s stake
read moreSaregama joins forces with Sanjay Leela Bhansali! Major equity deal to reshape Bollywood music and films
In a landmark move set to redefine Bollywood’s music and film landscape, Saregama India Ltd has announced a strategic partnership with Bhansali Productions Pvt Ltd, helmed by celebrated filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali. The alliance is anchored by an equity investment from Saregama, signalling a long-term collaboration between two creative powerhouses.
Under the agreement, Bhansali Productions will exclusively sell the music rights of all its future films to Saregama based on a pre-agreed pricing formula. This structure ensures a steady pipeline of premium film music for Saregama while eliminating competitive bidding and controlling acquisition costs.
Bhansali Productions will retain full ownership of its intellectual property and creative control over its films. Meanwhile, Saregama will provide governance oversight and financial discipline within the partnership framework. The deal also aligns with Saregama’s strategy to streamline in-house film production over the next one to two years, focusing instead on strategic collaborations.
The investment is expected to be earnings-per-share accretive by FY27, boosting margins across Saregama’s music and video segments.
Founded in 1996, Bhansali Productions has delivered cinematic gems like Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Devdas, Bajirao Mastani, Padmaavat, and Gangubai Kathiawadi, along with Netflix’s acclaimed series Heeramandi. The studio plans to produce over 10 feature films in the next three years, including the highly anticipated Love and War starring Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal, and Do Deewane Seher Mein featuring Siddhant Chaturvedi and Mrunal Thakur.
For FY25, Bhansali Productions reported Rs. 304 crores in revenue, Rs. 60 crores EBITDA, and Rs. 45 crores profit after tax. Commenting on the partnership, Avarna Jain, Vice Chairperson at Saregama India, said that the collaboration reflects the company’s vision to work with established creative studios and generate long-term shareholder value. Bhansali added that the partnership is rooted in shared values of artistic integrity, music, and storytelling.
Kotak Investment Banking acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Bhansali Productions for this transaction. Saregama, part of the RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group, operates across music, digital content, television, artiste management, and film production.
Also Read: Alia Bhatt opens up on emotional impact of Gangubai Kathiawadi: “I completely surrendered to Sanjay Leela Bhansali”
read morePriya Kapur’s battle over Sunjay Kapur’s Rs. 30,000 crores fortune takes dramatic turn amid Will dispute
The inheritance battle over late industrialist Sunjay Kapur’s colossal Rs. 30,000 crores estate has taken a sensational twist. On Tuesday, Priya Sachdev Kapur, Sunjay’s third wife, fiercely opposed any forensic examination of the Will that forms the bedrock of her claim to his personal assets and control over the Sona Comstar Group. The plea for scientific scrutiny—covering handwriting, ink, and paper analysis—was pressed by Sunjay’s children from his previous marriage, Samaira and Kiaan Raj Kapur, who argue that such checks are vital to confirm authenticity.
Legal experts say Priya’s resistance is highly unusual in a probate dispute of this magnitude, as courts routinely rely on forensic tests to settle doubts over testamentary documents. Blocking this process, they warn, could amplify suspicions surrounding a Will that completely excludes Sunjay’s biological children.
Adding fuel to the fire, Shradha Suri Marwah—the Will’s purported executor—has dramatically altered her stance on how she first received the document. Initially claiming Priya handed it over on June 24, Suri later said it came from Dinesh Agarwal on June 14, only to revert to her original version after reviewing Priya’s submissions. These oscillations, coupled with her admission that she was unaware of being named executor and lacked independent legal advice, have raised eyebrows. Her request for indemnity from Priya and reluctance to probate the Will further deepen scepticism.
Senior counsel Mahesh Jethmalani, representing Samaira and Kiaan, argued that under Indian law, an executor cannot be appointed without prior consent. If the Will fails judicial scrutiny, Sunjay’s estate would devolve equally among all Class I heirs—a point even Suri’s counsel conceded.
The Delhi High Court will hear both the forensic inspection plea and Suri’s amendment application on January 20, 2026, a date that could decide whether the Will reflects Sunjay Kapur’s true intentions or collapses under scrutiny.
For the unversed, Sunjay Kapur, Chairman of Sona Comstar, died suddenly on June 12, 2025, during a polo match in Windsor, England. The contested Will, dated March 21, 2025, allegedly leaves his entire personal estate to Priya and their minor son Azarias, excluding his children from his previous marriage to Karisma Kapoor. The dispute has spiralled into one of India’s most high-stakes inheritance battles, with allegations of forgery, concealment, and even conspiracy swirling around the case.
Also Read: Explosion in Rs. 30,000-Crore Sunjay Kapur estate battle: Missing email attachment triggers Will scam suspicion
read moreBREAKING: Border 2 team to launch recreated 'Sandese Aate Hai' on January 2 at Longewala, Rajasthan; the SAME 1971 battle site shown in first part
Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, Ahan Shetty, producer Bhushan Kumar and Nidhi Dutta and director Anurag Singh attended the teaser launch of one of the biggest films of 2026, Border 2. The team of the film talked about several aspects of the film. A conversation about Border is incomplete without the mention of the songs. The first part’s songs are memorable even today. The teaser features a recreated version of ‘Hindustan Hindustan’. At the event, Bhushan Kumar confirmed that a remixed version of ‘Sandese Aate Hai’ is also a part of the Border 2 album. He further revealed that it would be launched in a grand event that too at a town located at the India-Pakistan border in Rajasthan.
Bhushan Kumar said, “This time, for ‘Sandese Aate Hai’, we have added other singers also. We are going to launch that song on January 2 at Longewala with the armed forces as it's a very, very special song. We have tried our best to make sure that it has the same feel as the original song and yet, it has the sound of today.” Interestingly, Border (1997) was based on the Battle of Longewala in 1971.
At the start of the event, Bhushan Kumar stated, “The credit for the film goes to J P Dutta sir. Nidhi approached me and expressed the desire to make Border 2. Obviously, the emotion of the whole world is connected with Border. Hence, we collectively decided at our studio that we should make this film.”
He then praised Sunny Deol, “Without Sunny sir, it is impossible to make Border 2. A big thank you to him for working so hard and devoting so much time. I have no words.”
Bhushan continued, “I am getting very nervous right now as the film is very emotional for us. Anurag, Varun, Ahan and everyone else have done a very good job. Whenever I talk to Varun’s father (David Dhawan), I tell him, ‘Varun has done a great job’. He hasn’t given a performance like this ever.”
Lastly, Bhushan Kumar thanked the director of Border 2, “Thank you, Anurag. You have worked extensively. We, at T-Series, are thrilled that we got such a great film.”
Border 2 releases in cinemas on January 23, 2026.
Also Read: Sunny Deol gets emotional at Border 2 teaser launch, marks first public appearance since Dharmendra’s demise
read moreBREAKING: Sajid Nadiadwala’s Shahid Kapoor-starrer O Romeo expands ensemble with Vikrant Massey, Tamannaah Bhatia, Disha Patani
The buzz around O Romeo may be understated at present, but the creative forces behind the film have ensured that it turns out to be a project of considerable interest. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj, the film marks his much-anticipated reunion with Shahid Kapoor, an actor who has delivered some of his most acclaimed performances under Bhardwaj’s distinctive and layered direction. They have earlier worked in Kaminey (2009), Haider (2014) and Rangoon (2017). Their collaboration once again sets high expectations for a performance-driven narrative.
The ensemble of O Romeo is further strengthened by the inclusion of Triptii Dimri and the legendary Nana Patekar, whose presence brings both freshness and gravitas to the film. Bollywood Hungama has now learned that O Romeo will also feature an impressive supporting cast, including Vikrant Massey, Tamannaah Bhatia and Disha Patani, among others, positioning it as a true ensemble-led project.
Produced by Sajid Nadiadwala under the banner of Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, O Romeo is slated for a Valentine’s Day release on February 13, 2026.
In December 2024, Bollywood Hungama had reported that O Romeo went on floors on January 6, 2025. At that time, a source told us, “Mustafa Stationwala, who created the sets of Laal Singh Chaddha (2022), Hindi Medium (2017), Airlift (2016), etc. is the production designer on this film. Sajid Nadiadwala has gone all out, like always, in ensuring that the set is grand but at the same time, authentic to the storyline. He and director Vishal Bhardwaj have also meticulously worked on the scheduling of the film.”
With less than two months left for release, expectations are mounting for O Romeo to blend Vishal Bhardwaj’s signature intrigue with Shahid Kapoor’s intensity, now further elevated by a strong ensemble cast that adds scale, variety, and serious screen presence to the narrative. With Sajid Nadiadwala mounting it on a lavish yet story-rooted canvas, the film is quietly shaping up to be one of the key entertainers of 2026 and among the year’s most interesting big-screen bets.
Also Read: What to watch after Dhurandhar? 6 Indian espionage thrillers worth your time
read moreSonu Sood’s Sood Charity Foundation funds over 500 free breast cancer surgeries across India
Actor and real life hero Sonu Sood continues to prove that real change begins with intent, and grows through action. Through the Sood Charity Foundation, he has taken on a mission that goes beyond awareness, focusing on something far more urgent making breast cancer treatment accessible, free, and stigma-free for women across India.
Sharing his vision, Sonu Sood said, “Jab maine Sood Charity Foundation ki shuruaat ki, toh mera mission tha ki is desh ki mahilaon ko breast cancer se mukt karna hai. Bahut sari mahilaen jo is takleef se guzarti hain, kai baar hospital ja hi nahi paati ya bata hi nahi pati.” Recognising the silent suffering of countless women, especially in underserved regions, the foundation launched a nationwide initiative promising free breast cancer surgeries for women, no matter where they live.
That promise has already translated into impact on the ground. He claims, "Aaj, 500 se upar surgeries ho chuki hain, 500 se upar jaane bach chuki hain, aur 500 se zyada parivaaron ko ek naya jeevan mil chuka hai. Mujhe badi khushi hoti hai ki hamari team aur hamare saath jude logon ke karan hum naya jeevan de paaye". For Sonu, these numbers represent stories of courage, resilience, and hope, made possible through collective effort.
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Acknowledging the medical professionals who stood firmly behind the mission, Sonu expressed heartfelt gratitude to the doctors involved in this initiative, whose expertise in surgeries and radiation treatment played a critical role in delivering care. He also thanked the countless individuals who identified cases, reached out for help, and ensured that women in need reached the foundation in time.
While the milestone is significant, Sonu remains clear-eyed about the road ahead. “Yeh sirf shuruaat hai,” he said, extending an open appeal to the nation. Anyone, anywhere in India, who knows a woman battling breast cancer is urged to bring her forward. The foundation, he assures, will take full responsibility for her treatment, completely free of cost. In a country where healthcare often feels out of reach, Sonu Sood’s mission stands as a powerful reminder of what becomes possible when empathy meets action.
Also Read: Sonu Sood pledges to fund education of 10-month-old Bihar boy after his mother is killed in poll-related violence in Bihar: “From KG to PG, we’ve got you covered”
read moreBengaluru Police book Shilpa Shetty-owned Bastian for late-night operations
Bengaluru police have registered a case against Bastian Garden City, the upscale restaurant co-owned by Bollywood actor Shilpa Shetty, for operating beyond permitted hours following a viral video of a late-night altercation.
CCTV footage from December 11 around 1:30 am captured a verbal dispute among patrons at Bastian on St. Mark's Road, escalating into heckling before staff intervened. Businessman and former Bigg Boss contestant Satya Naidu was identified in the clip, denying any physical confrontation and claiming he visited only for dinner with friends, with confusion arising during billing.
Cubbon Park police filed the case suo motu under Section 103 of the Karnataka Police Act after reviewing the video, which showed operations past the 1 am closing time for pubs without special permission. Managers and staff have been booked, with investigations ongoing into whether this reflects a pattern of violations amid a pre-New Year crackdown on nightlife spots.
Bastian, partnered by Shilpa Shetty with founder Ranjit Bindra, is a premium brand known for high prices like Rs 920 jasmine tea and Rs 1.59 lakh champagne, reportedly generating Rs 2-3 crores nightly in Mumbai before its Bandra branch closed in October. This comes weeks after Shilpa Shetty and husband Raj Kundra faced a separate Rs 60 crores fraud probe. A similar case was filed against Sourberry Pub on Residency Road.
Also Read: Democratic Sangha Forum 2025: Regena Cassandrra, Shilpa Shetty, Mamta Mohandas and notable politicians discuss key themes
read moreShashi Tharoor SLAMS I&B Ministry over withholding clearance for 19 films at IFFK
A major controversy has disrupted the 12th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) in Thiruvananthapuram, as the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) has withheld screening permissions for several films, leading to cancellations.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has sharply criticized the decision, calling it “deeply unfortunate” and highlighting the denial of clearance to 19 scheduled films. On December 16, 2025, he noted on social media that the original list was longer, but some approvals followed his intervention with I&B Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, requested by festival chairman Riyas LP, while others await Ministry of External Affairs clearance.
Tharoor described the bureaucracy's stance as a “staggering lack of cinematic understanding,” questioning blocks on classics like Battleship Potemkin, a 1928 Russian Revolution film seen by millions worldwide, including in India. "The list of 19 films suggests an extraordinary degree of cinematic illiteracy on the part of the bureaucracy. To deny clearance to a classic like Battleship Potemkin, a 1928 film on the Russian Revolution which has been viewed by literally hundreds of millions around the world (and in India) over the last century, is laughable. Denying permission to some Palestinian films reflects bureaucratic over-cautiousness rather than the cultural breadth of vision that should be involved when it comes to world cinema," he wrote.
It is most unfortunate that an unseemly controversy has arisen over the central government's denial of clearance to 19 films which were scheduled to be screened at the International Film Festival of Kerala in Thiruvananthapuram. The original list was much longer, but several…
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) December 16, 2025
He urged Ministers Ashwini Vaishnaw and S Jaishankar to expedite approvals, warning of damage to India’s cultural image, especially in cinema-loving Kerala.
Films lacking Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) approval require special I&B Ministry exemption for festival screenings, and the absence of these has stalled the IFFK schedule.
Veteran filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan decried restrictions on landmarks like Battleship Potemkin, The Hour of the Furnaces, and the Spanish film Beef, calling it a “clear misunderstanding of cinema” that judges by titles or politics, undermining artistic freedom. Organizers are negotiating resolutions before the festival ends on December 19, amid delegate inconvenience.
Also Read: Karan Johar, Malaika Arora compare Pitch To Get Rich contestant to Shashi Tharoor; Congress MP gives cheeky reply!
read moreAnees Bazmee CONFIRMS reunion with Akshay Kumar after 15 years; details inside!
Filmmaker Anees Bazmee has officially confirmed that he is reuniting with Akshay Kumar after a gap of 15 years. While speculation around their collaboration had been circulating for some time, Bazmee put an end to the rumours by revealing that the duo is working on a new comedy project.
Speaking to Mid-Day, Bazmee shared that the script for the film is nearing completion. “It is a comedy. I am writing the script right now, it’s almost complete. If everything goes as planned, we will start shooting soon,” he said. The film is currently untitled, and while reports had suggested that it could be a remake of the Telugu action-comedy Sankranthiki Vasthunam, Bazmee chose not to comment on those claims.
The director, however, spoke warmly about his long-standing relationship with Akshay Kumar. Reflecting on their bond, Bazmee said there has always been mutual respect between them. “There is mutual love and respect between us. When I told him about this film, he was more than happy,” he added, noting that they remained in touch over the years despite not collaborating since Thank You (2011).
Having said that, it is worth mentioning that Bollywood Hungama was among the first ones to report about Akshay Kumar and Anees Bazmee's reunion. Readers may recall that a source told Bollywood Hungama, "Anees and Akshay loved the plot of the lead character stuck between his wife and ex-girlfriend that Sankranthiki Vasthunam rides on. However, the original had a lot of Telugu flavour. To make the film palatable for the Hindi audience, Anees Bazmee is reimagining the film, keeping the core plot intact."
On the work front, Akshay Kumar has a busy slate ahead. The actor will be seen in Haiwaan and Bhoot Bangla, both directed by Priyadarshan, and is also set to return to the Hera Pheri franchise with Hera Pheri 3, once again under Priyadarshan’s direction.
Also Read: Anees Bazmee CONFIRMS Bhool Bhulaiyaa 4, says, “It is work in progress”
read moreSitaaron Ke Sitaare trailer out: Documentary shines light on parents behind Sitaare Zameen Par cast; to release on December 19, 2025
After touching hearts with Sitaare Zameen Par, Aamir Khan Productions is now turning the spotlight towards the people who quietly shaped the journey behind the scenes. The makers have unveiled the trailer of Sitaaron Ke Sitaare, a documentary that introduces audiences to the real stars behind the film — the parents of the young actors who featured in the sports comedy-drama.
Sitaaron Ke Sitaare traces the lives, emotions, and everyday realities of the parents whose children became the ‘Sitaare’ of Sitaare Zameen Par. While the film itself emerged as a heartwarming family entertainer and resonated deeply with audiences, the documentary expands that emotional universe by focusing on the journeys that unfolded off-screen. The trailer offers glimpses of intimate moments, shared struggles, pride, and the process of growing up alongside their children’s dreams.
Directed by Shaanib Bakshi, the documentary continues Aamir Khan Productions’ pattern of taking unconventional routes to storytelling. It follows the studio’s earlier decision to make Sitaare Zameen Par available on YouTube through the “Janta Ka Theater” initiative at a nominal price, a move that challenged traditional distribution models and widened access for audiences across the country.
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Sitaaron Ke Sitaare is set to premiere on 19th December, exclusively on Aamir Khan Talkies’ YouTube channel.
The documentary builds upon the legacy of Sitaare Zameen Par, which starred Aamir Khan and Genelia Deshmukh in lead roles and introduced ten rising talents — Aroush Datta, Gopi Krishna Varma, Samvit Desai, Vedant Sharma, Ayush Bhansali, Ashish Pendse, Rishi Shahani, Rishabh Jain, Naman Mishra, and Simran Mangeshkar. The film was directed by R. S. Prasanna, known for Shubh Mangal Saavdhan, and released in theatres on June 20, 2025.
Also Read: PVR INOX hosts special screening of Sitaare Zameen Par for Indian Air Force personnel
read moreDharma Productions relaunches talent arm as Dharma Collab Artists Agency after acquiring Cornerstone’s stake
Dharma Productions has acquired Cornerstone’s stake in its talent management venture, Dharma Cornerstone Agency, and relaunched it under a new name — Dharma Collab Artists Agency (DCAA). The move marks a strategic expansion of Dharma’s presence beyond filmmaking into a wider cultural and talent ecosystem.
With the rebranding, DCAA will function as Dharma Productions’ exclusive platform for artist representation, spanning film, music, sports, digital media, live experiences, and cultural collaborations. The agency will continue to be led by Uday Singh Gauri as CEO and Rajeev Masand as COO, ensuring continuity as the company enters its next phase of growth.
Uday Singh Gauri, who brings over two decades of experience across talent management, music, live entertainment, and strategic partnerships, is expected to focus on expanding the agency’s reach and building new verticals. The aim, according to the leadership, is to help artists navigate careers that increasingly move across formats and platforms rather than remain limited to a single medium.
Apoorva Mehta, CEO of Dharma Productions, said, "Talent has always shaped Dharma’s identity, influencing both our creative choices and how we build for the future. With DCAA, we are creating a structured platform that supports artists across disciplines. This is a deliberate and long-term step toward deepening our role in the creative economy."
Speaking about the relaunch, Uday Singh Gauri said, "With DCAA, we’re building a platform that reflects the way artists work, express, and grow today. Representation now goes far beyond negotiation and visibility. It requires cultural understanding, business instinct, and the ability to move with — and ahead of — the industry. Our focus is on developing long-term careers across multiple formats, while creating meaningful pathways between talent and opportunity. This is about scale, yes, but it’s also about care, clarity, and collaboration."
DCAA’s current roster includes a mix of film actors, musicians, digital creators, and cultural voices such as Janhvi Kapoor, Ananya Panday, Sara Ali Khan, Disha Patani, Rasha Thadani, Aditya Roy Kapur, Harshvardhan Rane, Lakshya, Rohit Saraf, Neeti Mohan, Jonita Gandhi, Orry, Sumukhi Suresh, among others.
Dharma Productions, founded in 1976 by the late Yash Johar and now jointly owned by Karan Johar and Adar Poonawalla, has built a reputation for launching new talent while delivering commercially successful and critically acclaimed films. With DCAA, the studio appears to be extending that legacy into artist management, positioning itself as a long-term partner in shaping careers across entertainment and culture.
Also Read: Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions takes 100% control of talent venture after amicable split with Cornerstone
read moreBREAKING: Dhurandhar becomes the FIRST film to not implement Tuesday discount offer for SECOND time in a row
Dhurandhar had a fair opening, but on the weekdays, it went on another level. It became clear to the trade and industry that the second weekend would be higher. Yet, no one was prepared for the fact that the film would earn a huge Rs. 146.60 crores from Day 8 to Day 10. And as expected, the Tuesday offer of Rs. 99 will not be implemented this week as well.
A source told Bollywood Hungama, “The weekend trend gave a strong indication that the demand to watch Dhurandhar is incredible. Hence, a decision was taken by the distributors that cinemas shouldn’t reduce the ticket prices on Tuesday, as they usually do for other movies. Accordingly, the cinemas have been asked to follow blockbuster pricing for all days of the week, including Tuesday. The excellent hold on the second Monday has given an indication that their decision will prove right and lead to steady collections despite no discount.”
Last week, Bollywood Hungama had reported that ever since the Tuesday offer began on April 22, 2025, only two other films didn’t opt for a discount offer in Week 1 – Raid 2 and Sitaare Zameen Par. However, both films took advantage of the scheme from Week 2. Dhurandhar is thus the first ever film to not opt for the Tuesday offer twice.
In fact, an industry insider revealed, “If the momentum continues, there will be no offer on subsequent Tuesdays as well, on December 23 and December 30. It’s holiday time when business is on the upswing. Therefore, don’t be surprised if the Tuesday offer for Dhurandhar is implemented directly on January 6, 2026.”
Dhurandhar stars Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, R Madhavan, Arjun Rampal and Sara Arjun. Backed by Jio Studios and B62 Studios, it is directed by Aditya Dhar. The sequel is scheduled to be released on March 19, 2026.
Also Read: Samantha applauds Ranveer Singh’s transformation in Dhurandhar, calls him “unreal”
read moreMichael Bay makes Indian debut as he joins hands with Bhanushali Studios for Anthony D’Souza directorial featuring music by A R Rahman
Bhanushali Studios Limited announced a creative collaboration with acclaimed Hollywood filmmaker Michael Bay. Known globally for shaping modern blockbuster cinema, Bay marked his first-ever creative association with an Indian studio and an Indian film through this partnership, a milestone he also shared on social media.
Michael Bay, whose body of work as a director and producer includes franchises and films such as Bad Boys, Armageddon, Pearl Harbor, Transformers, and A Quiet Place, has been responsible for over USD 10 billion in global box office collections. His collaboration with Bhanushali Studios signals a notable cross-cultural exchange between Hollywood-scale action filmmaking and Indian storytelling.
The upcoming project is set to be directed by Anthony D’Souza, known for large-scale entertainers such as Boss, Blue, and Azhar. Elevating the film further is the involvement of Oscar-winning composer A R Rahman, whose music has consistently carried Indian narratives to a global audience.
Speaking about his first Indian collaboration, Michael Bay said, “It was an exciting opportunity to blend Hollywood’s action-driven approach with the heart and emotion of Indian storytelling. Working with Rahman, Vinod, and Tony offered the chance to create a new cinematic experience filled with energy, rhythm, and striking visuals. Anthony’s vision, particularly, his handling of scale and emotion made this collaboration especially fulfilling.”
A R Rahman reflected on the creative union, saying, “When different cinematic worlds come together, they open up a unique space for music. For me, composing has always been about discovering the soul of a film and giving the score its own identity — a voice for what remains unspoken. I let the music carry the emotion.”
Bhanushali Studios Limited has steadily built a strong slate of films through collaborations with prominent banners such as Warner Bros. Pictures, Aanand L Rai’s Colour Yellow Productions, Hansal Mehta’s True Story Films, and Ali Abbas Zafar’s AAZ Films. The alliance with Michael Bay marks a further step toward international collaboration and global storytelling.
Vinod Bhanushali, Chairman and Managing Director of Bhanushali Studios Limited, shared, “Cinema is global and stories are universal. Collaborations like this remind us that creative scale has no boundaries. Bringing together Michael Bay’s dynamic filmmaking with A R Rahman’s musical universe was an ambitious and inspiring vision. We believed an Indian story could find a strong voice on the global stage through such partnerships.”
Director Anthony D’Souza also spoke about the project, saying, “Collaborating with Michael Bay’s creative intensity, Rahman sir’s musical brilliance, and the support of Bhanushali Studios was both an honour and a responsibility. This film aspired to balance scale, speed, and emotion while delivering a cinematic experience that remained soulful at its core.”
The film is in the early stages of development at the time of the announcement, with further details expected to be revealed as the project progresses.
Also Read: Narcos cinematographer Juan Carlos Gil praises Vikrant Massey’s unmatched commitment for White: “He was generous about the job”
read moreAmid Dhurandhar success, Pakistan’s Sindh government flags “negative portrayal” of Lyari; announces the film Mera Lyari
Ranveer Singh-starrer Dhurandhar continues to make waves at the box office, with the film racing towards the Rs 300 crore club and drawing praise from audiences and celebrities alike. Directed by Aditya Dhar, the film is inspired by real-life events and crime syndicates operating in Karachi’s Lyari area, and presents a fictionalised account of India’s fight against terror in Pakistan. However, the film’s depiction has now triggered a response across the border.
Amid the growing buzz around Dhurandhar, Pakistan’s Sindh government announced a new film titled Mera Lyari, which it claims will counter what it has termed as “negative propaganda” against the region. The announcement was made on Saturday, December 13, by Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, who shared posters of the upcoming film on X.
In his post, Memon criticised Dhurandhar, alleging that it portrays Lyari in a negative light. “Indian movie Dhurandhar is yet another example of negative propaganda by the Indian film industry against Pakistan, especially targeting Lyari. Lyari is not violence—it is culture, peace, talent, and resilience,” he wrote. Announcing the film’s release next month, he added that Mera Lyari will aim to show “the true face of Lyari: peace, prosperity, and pride.”
The response has added a new dimension to the conversation surrounding Dhurandhar, which draws from true incidents linked to criminal networks in Lyari while framing its narrative around cross-border terror operations. While the film has been lauded in India for its scale, performances and storytelling, its subject matter has also sparked debate given the sensitive geopolitical context it touches upon.
Dhurandhar boasts an ensemble cast led by Ranveer Singh, alongside Akshaye Khanna, R. Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, Sara Arjun, Rakesh Bedi, Manav Gohil, Danish Pandor, Saumya Tandon and Gaurav Gera.
Also Read: Dhurandhar Box Office Tsunami: Ranveer Singh starrer clocks Rs. 545.6 cr at Worldwide box office, dominates India & Overseas
read moreSohail Khan apologises for riding without helmet in Mumbai, cites claustrophobia: “I mostly ride late nights when…”
Actor Sohail Khan found himself at the centre of online criticism over the weekend after a video of him riding his Rs 17 lakh motorcycle on Mumbai’s Bandra roads without a helmet went viral. The clip quickly drew backlash from netizens, many of whom pointed out the importance of road safety and the responsibility public figures carry when it comes to following traffic rules.
Responding to the criticism, Sohail took to social media to issue a detailed apology and acknowledge his mistake. In his note, the actor admitted that not wearing a helmet was wrong, regardless of personal discomfort. “I would like to request all the bike riders please wear helmets. I avoid wearing them at times as I feel claustrophobic but that’s no excuse to not wear one,” he wrote.
Sohail went on to explain his long-standing passion for riding, sharing that it dates back to his childhood days of riding BMX cycles. He added that he usually rides late at night, when traffic is minimal, and maintains a slow pace with his car following him to reduce risk. However, he made it clear that these precautions do not justify breaking traffic rules. “I assure fellow riders that I will make a genuine effort to overcome my claustrophobia and wear a helmet so please bear with me,” he added.
The actor also apologised directly to the traffic authorities, stating that he would follow all rules going forward. He further saluted riders who wear helmets consistently despite discomfort, calling it necessary for safety and reiterating that “it is better to be safe than sorry.”
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Interestingly, this incident has brought Sohail Khan back into the public spotlight after a long gap. The actor has largely stayed away from films in recent years. He returned to acting in 2017 after a seven-year hiatus with Tubelight, where he appeared alongside his brother Salman Khan. Since then, Sohail has remained off the big screen, making this controversy one of the few times he has made headlines in recent years.
Also Read: Sohail Khan on Salman Khan’s O O jaane jaana impact: “Salman Khan ke jaise body chaiye toh doodh pi”
read morePriyadarshan CONFIRMS reunion with Pankaj Tripathi after 15 years for a full-fledged comedy
When Paresh Rawal had briefly stepped away from Hera Pheri 3, social media was quick to suggest Pankaj Tripathi as a worthy alternative. While Rawal’s return to the franchise has since put those conversations to rest, it turns out the internet’s instinct wasn’t entirely misplaced. Filmmaker Priyadarshan is now set to reunite with Tripathi for a new project, marking their first collaboration in over 15 years.
The director confirmed the development during a conversation with Mid-Day, expressing his excitement about working with the actor again. “It’s been over 15 years,” Priyadarshan said, referring to their last collaboration in Aakrosh (2010), where Tripathi played a hitman. In the yet-untitled film, however, the actor will be seen in a completely different space — as a lovable, comic character.
Describing the tone of the project, Priyadarshan revealed that the film will be a broad, situational comedy in the vein of his earlier hits. “It will be an all-out comedy like Hungama (2003) or Hera Pheri (2000), with Pankaj as the pivotal character. He is one of the finest actors we have today and it will be a pleasure working with him again,” he said. The film will also feature two other actors, whose casting will be finalised once the script is locked. “I am currently writing the story and once that is finalised, I will approach the other two actors,” he added.
The filmmaker, who recently wrapped up the shoot of the action thriller Haiwaan starring Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan, has a packed slate ahead. Priyadarshan is set to have two releases in 2026 — Bhooth Bangla, a supernatural thriller featuring Akshay Kumar, Tabu, and Wamiqa Gabbi, and Haiwaan. If schedules fall into place, he plans to take the Tripathi-starrer comedy on floors by the summer.
“I will begin shooting for Pankaj’s movie from May, after these two movies release. It’s refreshing to write a comedy after so many years as I recently helmed an action movie and a psychological thriller,” Priyadarshan shared. Addressing whether he was considering a break after completing Haiwaan, the director laughed it off. “You know I cannot stay idle for long. I had this story in mind, and narrated it to Pankaj, who liked it. So, I started writing it.”
Meanwhile, speculation around Bhagam Bhag 2 continues to do the rounds. While Akshay Kumar and Akshaye Khanna are rumoured to return for the sequel, Priyadarshan clarified that he is not associated with the project. “I am not a part of it. My next movie [to be shot in 2026] is the Pankaj Tripathi-starrer,” he stated. Reports suggest that Raaj Shaandilyaa, known for Dream Girl 2 (2023), will helm Bhagam Bhag 2.
Also Read: Priyadarshan wraps Haiwaan on a nostalgic note as Saiyami Kher gets emotional shooting the final schedule at her alma mater, St. Xavier’s college
read moreRanveer Singh’s Pralay to roll after Don 3; filming likely to begin by mid-2026: Report
Ranveer Singh is closing 2025 on a strong note with the success of Dhurandhar, and his 2026 slate is shaping up to be just as ambitious. The actor’s much-talked-about post-apocalyptic film, tentatively titled Pralay, is now gearing up to go on floors, with filming expected to begin by mid-2026.
According to a report by Mid-Day, Pralay will roll after Ranveer wraps up his commitments for Don 3. A source told the publication, “Don 3, helmed by Farhan Akhtar, will roll first in 2026. After that, Ranveer will focus on Pralay. The final timeline will be locked in January after he gets his Don 3 schedule.”
The delayed start gives director Jai Mehta ample time to build the world of the film, which is described as a post-apocalyptic zombie thriller with a strong thematic core. Pralay reportedly follows a protagonist’s fight for survival, using the zombie genre as a lens to explore social, emotional, and moral collapse. The narrative is said to reimagine Mumbai in a dystopian, The Hunger Games-style set-up.
Insiders further revealed that the makers are planning an extensive visual overhaul of the city. Large portions of Mumbai will be recreated as a devastated landscape, blending physical sets with artificial intelligence-driven extensions. “Large sections of the city will be digitally aged to give it an abandoned look. Parts of the film will be shot in Mumbai, before moving to other locations,” the source added.
Pralay marks an important milestone for Jai Mehta, who previously co-directed the critically acclaimed Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story with his father, filmmaker Hansal Mehta, and later directed the web series Lootere. The Ranveer Singh-starrer will be his feature film debut, and is being positioned as a large-scale, concept-driven project.
Meanwhile, Dhurandhar continues to perform well at the box office, reinforcing Ranveer Singh’s strong run. The film is backed by Aditya Dhar and Lokesh Dhar’s B62 Studios, and Jio Studios. It also stars Akshaye Khanna, Arjun Rampal, R Madhavan, and Sanjay Dutt.
Also Read: Dhurandhar Box Office: Film emerges as Ranveer Singh’s second Rs. 300 cr grosser
read moreVidya Balan joins Rajinikanth starrer Jailer 2, makers eye Independence Day 2026 release: Report
Vidya Balan has joined the cast of Jailer 2, adding a significant new dimension to the much-anticipated sequel to Rajinikanth’s 2023 blockbuster. Directed once again by Nelson Dilipkumar and produced by Sun Pictures, the film is shaping up to be a larger and more narratively driven follow-up to one of Kollywood’s biggest recent successes.
According to a source close to the production quoted by Pinkvilla, Vidya Balan was approached with the script and was immediately drawn to both the story and the depth of her character. The source revealed that the actor was impressed by the complexity of the role, which is said to be central to the plot and responsible for a major turning point in the film. Described as a strong, layered character, her part is expected to bring emotional weight and narrative depth to the sequel, marking her return to a high-profile commercial entertainer.
Vidya Balan’s inclusion is being seen as a move that pushes Jailer 2 beyond scale and spectacle, strengthening its storytelling ambitions. While the first film leaned heavily on Rajinikanth’s screen presence and mass moments, the sequel appears to be expanding its emotional and dramatic scope with carefully written supporting characters.
Rajinikanth will reprise his role as Tiger Muthuvel Pandian, a character that struck a chord across age groups in the original film. This time, the sequel promises higher stakes, with Muthuvel facing more dangerous adversaries and navigating bloodier, more intense conflicts. Nelson Dilipkumar returns to the director’s chair, aiming to raise the bar further while retaining the core elements that made Jailer a phenomenon.
On the release front, reports suggest that the makers are eyeing August 14, 2026, for the theatrical release of Jailer 2. The date would align the film with a long Independence Day weekend, a strategy similar to the August release window of the first part. Interestingly, it also mirrors the timing of Rajinikanth’s Coolie, which was released over the same holiday weekend earlier this year. While discussions around the final release date are still ongoing, the intention is clearly to position the sequel as a major festival release with Pan-India appeal.
Also Read: Rajinikanth’s 75th birthday becomes a star-studded celebration as Dhanush and Kamal Haasan honour him on his journey
read moreKaran Johar’s Dharma Productions takes 100% control of talent venture after amicable split with Cornerstone
Dharma Productions has taken full ownership of Dharma Cornerstone Agency (DCA) following an amicable restructuring with Cornerstone Sport and Entertainment, as reported by The Economic Times. As per insiders, the two partners have decided to pursue independent strategies going forward.
As part of the restructuring, Dharma is buying out Cornerstone’s 45% partnership interest in the talent management LLP, thereby acquiring Cornerstone’s entire economic rights and contribution in the venture, according to The Economic Times. Financial terms were not disclosed in the report.
The talent roster currently housed under the venture is expected to remain with Dharma, which will continue to manage ongoing and upcoming engagements, as per The Economic Times. The agency is known to represent film talent such as Janhvi Kapoor, Sara Ali Khan, Tiger Shroff, Harshvardhan Rane, Lakshya, Ananya Panday, Siddhant Chaturvedi, etc.
On the financial front, the joint venture’s turnover reportedly rose to Rs 110 crores in FY25 from Rs 77 crores in FY24, while net profit stood at Rs 12 crores versus Rs 14 crores in the previous year, as per The Economic Times. Industry executives cited in the report indicated that full control could allow Dharma to build a more integrated talent strategy, linking management, training and development more tightly with its film and digital content pipeline.
Dharma Productions CEO Apoorva Mehta and Cornerstone’s Bunty Sajdeh declined to comment to The Economic Times. Executives tracking the sector also suggested that consolidation in talent management can improve alignment across casting decisions, long-term career planning and brand strategy, especially as the creator economy and influencer-led IP continue to expand.
Cornerstone, meanwhile, will continue to operate independently through Cornerstone Sport and Entertainment and plans to scale its presence across sports, entertainment and digital talent, the report said. Its client list includes names such as K L Rahul, Sidhant Chaturvedi, Sania Mirza, Manu Bhaker, etc.
The move also aligns with a wider consolidation at Dharma. As reported by The Economic Times, Dharmatic Entertainment has been merged into Dharma Productions effective April 1, 2025, following Adar Poonawalla’s acquisition of a 50% stake in Dharma for Rs 1,000 crores, thus positioning the studio for its next phase of growth.
In October this year, Bollywood Hungama had reported that Dharmatic Entertainment, the digital arm of Dharma Productions, had officially merged with its parent company as part of Dharma’s plan “to consolidate operations amid the changing entertainment landscape”.
Also Read: Karan Johar calls Manish Malhotra’s new film Saali Mohabbat “juicy and riveting” in shoutout post; says, “Can’t wait for everyone to watch it”
read moreEXCLUSIVE: As a tribute to Dharmendra, Yamla Pagla Deewana expected to re-release in cinemas on January 1, 2026
Last month, the industry and moviegoers were in mourning as Dharmendra passed away on November 24 at the age of 89. More than a month after he left for the heavenly abode, his much-loved film Yamla Pagla Deewana (2011) is expected to be re-released in cinemas.
A source told Bollywood Hungama, “The re-release of Yamla Pagla Deewana will serve as a tribute to the man who was unanimously loved and who left an indelible mark in the world of cinema. The film seems apt for a re-run as it’s not very old, still looks fresh and entertaining and also stars Dharmendra along with his two sons, Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol.”
The source continued, “Earlier, the plan was to re-release Yamla Pagla Deewana this Friday, December 19. But due to the Dhurandhar wave, NH Studioz, which holds the rights to the film, has decided to change the plan. Yamla Pagla Deewana is now expected to arrive in cinemas on January 1, 2026. A final decision will be taken in a few days from now.”
Yamla Pagla Deewana was directed by Samir Karnik and its title was inspired by the song ‘Main Jat Yamla Pagla Deewana’ from the 1975 film, Pratigya, also starring Dharmendra. A remixed version of the title track was a part of the film and added to its popularity. Yamla Pagla Deewana told the story of an Indian based in Canada who travels to Banaras to locate his estranged brother and father. Trouble arises when the trio travel to Punjab to help the younger brother win the love of his life while dealing with her crazy family.
Yamla Pagla Deewana opened at Rs. 7.95 crores, which was a healthy number then, and collected Rs. 55.28 crores in its lifetime. The film was loved for its comedy and mass appeal, and also because Dharmendra, Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol all had strong roles with ample screen time. Its success led the makers to come up with Yamla Pagla Deewana 2 (2013) and Yamla Pagla Deewana Phir Se (2018). However, both these films failed to work at the box office.
Also Read: Esha Deol pays moving tribute to Dharmendra, sharing touching montage of personal and film memories
read moreEXCLUSIVE: Salman Khan, Tiger Shroff and others attend wedding reception of the son of popular ex-cop, Daya Nayak
Prominent Bollywood celebrities made their way to a five-star hotel in Mumbai on the evening of Saturday, December 13, to attend the wedding reception of the son of a popular ex-police officer. Since no paparazzi were informed, no usual celeb sightings happened for this high-profile wedding.
The wedding in question was that of Chaitanya Nayak, son of Dayanand Nayak aka Daya Nayak. The biggest celebrity that graced the happy occasion was none other than superstar Salman Khan. A few fan clubs of the actor have uploaded videos of Salman entering the venue.
Megastar #SalmanKhan Seen At Daya Nayak Sons Wedding Reception 🔥 pic.twitter.com/W3Pk3rP9OS — Filmy_Duniya (@FMovie82325) December 13, 2025
However, Bollywood Hungama has learned that besides Salman Khan, many more prominent celebrities attended the reception of Chaitanya Nayak like young actor Tiger Shroff, veteran performer Ashutosh Rana, this year's biggest comeback actor Rajat Bedi, unanimously loved celeb Manoj Bajpayee, Jayantilal Gada of PEN India Limited, Pravin Shah of Time Media And Entertainment, etc.
Daya Nayak joined the Mumbai Police department in 1985, and rose to fame as an encounter specialist in the late 1990s, as a member of the Detection Unit. In May 2025, he was promoted to Assistant Commissioner of the Police. He retired on July 31, 2025.
The 2004 Nana Patekar film, Ab Tak Chhappan, directed by Shimit Amin and produced by Ram Gopal Varma, is said to be inspired by the life of Daya Nayak.
Also Read: SCOOP: Salman Khan considering reclaiming his traditional Eid slot with Battle Of Galwan; might clash with Toxic and Dhamaal 4
read moreBorder 2 teaser launch on Vijay Diwas to turn into a grand tribute to Indian soldiers, deets inside
The makers of Border 2 are planning an unprecedented teaser launch event on Vijay Diwas on December 16, turning the occasion into a powerful blend of cinema, patriotism, and fan celebration. Timed with the historic day that commemorates India’s victory in the 1971 war, the teaser launch is being positioned as more than just a promotional activity it is envisioned as a nationwide tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of Indian soldiers. With large-scale planning underway, the event promises to be one of the most ambitious teaser unveilings in recent times.
At the heart of the celebration will be Mumbai, where fans will be the first to witness the Border 2 teaser on the big screen. The city will host a grand event featuring meticulously recreated battlefield sets inspired by war-zone conditions seen in the film. From trenches and bunkers to military-style layouts, the venue will offer an immersive experience, allowing attendees to step into the world of Border 2 even before the teaser rolls.
Adding to the spectacle, the makers are creating a live museum-style installation showcasing actual props used in the film. Costumes, military gear, and other authentic elements from the shoot will be displayed, offering fans a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the scale, realism, and craftsmanship involved in bringing the war drama to life.
The event will also mark a significant milestone as the Border 2 cast will be seen together publicly for the first time. Their joint appearance is expected to generate massive excitement, making the teaser launch a landmark moment in the film’s promotional journey.
Extending the celebration beyond Mumbai, the teaser will be screened simultaneously across multiple cities, ensuring fans nationwide experience the reveal at the same time. Adding an emotional layer to the evening, school children will present a special patriotic performance at the Mumbai event, reinforcing the spirit of Vijay Diwas and underlining the film’s tribute to the nation’s heroes.
Also Read : Border 2 teaser to be attached with Avatar: Fire and Ash in cinemas
read moreBREAKING! Post-midnight shows of Dhurandhar added in Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad due to unprecedented demand
The buzz around Dhurandhar has been translating into packed theatres, with post-midnight shows being introduced across Maharashtra due to overwhelming public demand. In Mumbai, cinemas have begun screening the film from as late as 12:45 am onwards, marking a rare but telling response to the unstoppable excitement surrounding the release.
The decision to add post-midnight shows was taken after advance bookings surged across multiplexes and single screens alike. The move underlines the strong word-of-mouth and pre-release anticipation that Dhurandhar has managed to generate. The trend is not limited to Mumbai alone. Pune has also joined the celebration, with post-midnight shows commencing from 12:20 am onwards starting today due to similar reasons—heavy booking and consistent inquiries from moviegoers keen to catch the film at the earliest possible hour. Similarly, the trend of post-midnight shows is also seen in Ahmedabad. But this is not the first time that Dhurandhar’s post-midnight shows have been added. The same happened last weekend as well (which was the film’s first weekend) and Bollywood Hungama was the first one to report on the same. Midnight and post-midnight shows are usually reserved for films that demonstrate exceptional demand, often driven by mass appeal and fan-driven momentum. The fact that Dhurandhar has achieved this across multiple cities reflects its strong pull among audiences and its ability to cut across age groups and demographics. Directed and written by Aditya Dhar, Dhurandhar has an ensemble cast of Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna, R Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, Sara Arjun and Rakesh Bedi. The film is produced under the banners of Jio Studios and B62 Studios.
Also Read: Rajkummar Rao and Zoya Akhtar praise Ranveer Singh’s performance in Dhurandhar
read moreBREAKING: Manager CONFIRMS that Allu Arjun to fly to Japan for Pushpa 2 Japanese release in January 2026; Pushpa Kunrin to release with 222-minute EXTENDED cut
2024’s biggest blockbuster, Pushpa 2 – The Rule, opened with superstar Allu Arjun’s character making a dramatic entry at a port in Japan, hidden inside a container. More than a year later, Allu is finally set to head to the Far East country, this time legally, as he will take part in promotions ahead of the film’s Japan release.
Earlier this month, it was reported that Pushpa 2 - The Rule will have a release in Japan on January 16, 2026, under the title of Pushpa Kunrin. Geek Pictures announced that it’ll release the film in the Asian country along with Shochiku. A special, vibrant poster of Pushpa Kunrin was also unveiled, featuring Allu Arjun in his trademark flamboyant avatar, sunglasses on, floral shirts out, and swagger dialled all the way up. The Japanese-version trailer was also dropped on YouTube the same day.
As expected, the fans of Allu Arjun are excited to learn about this special release of Pushpa 2 - The Rule in Japan. A fan happened to wonder on Twitter if the superstar will be heading to Japan for the promotional event before release and also if he can ask Allu’s manager, Sarath Chandra Naidu, about it. Interestingly, Sarath replied, “Yes, he is”. What was significant was that Sarath Chandra Naidu was not even tagged, but somehow stumbled upon this tweet and even answered the fan query.
Yes, he is. — Sarath Chandra Naidu (@imsarathchandra) December 12, 2025
Needless to say, Sarath’s reply was widely shared and retweeted and it added to the excitement. This would probably be the first ever visit for Allu Arjun in Japan.
Another interesting bit is that a 200-minute version of Pushpa 2 - The Rule was released in India and worldwide. A month later, after the film became a certified record grosser, the makers released a 20-minute-extended version. As per the details released by Geek Pictures, it is this extended version, of 222 minutes, which will be released in Japan.
Also Read: Allu Arjun stuns in new BTS of Thums Up commercial: here’s why fans are obsessed
read moreR. Madhavan breaks silence on Dhurandhar backlash: “Don’t take a jibe at the industry like an outsider”
Madhavan has spoken candidly about the reactions surrounding his recently released film Dhurandhar, co-starring Ranveer Singh, directed by Aditya Dhar. In an interaction with Esquire India, Madhavan shared his thoughts on the film’s journey, the criticism it faced, and the resilience of the industry.
“When I heard Dhurandhar and saw the immaculate research that had been done by Aditya Dhar, the fearlessness of the man, the uniqueness of his storytelling—these were the signs I got before the release of my film. I knew that this was going to impact society. There will be people who will first give it very bad ratings, and then there will be people who will suddenly go and wonder, ‘Wow, this happened’,” Madhavan said.
The actor didn’t shy away from addressing the negativity that surfaced even before the film hit theatres. “You are free to express your opinion, but even before the film was released, obituaries had been written, and on its release, you posted a review calling it a disaster. One wonders if there is an agenda,” he remarked.
Madhavan further emphasized the emotional toll such criticism can take on those within the industry. “But as actors, we thrive on this situation. Please don’t forget, irrespective of whatever your opinions and agendas are, we are a very lonely family, and it is our job, no matter how much you like or hate a product or a person. Don’t take a jibe at the industry like an outsider. We have enough of them already,” he added.
Dhurandhar, released on December 5, 2025, is the first installment of a two-part series. Written, directed, and co-produced by Aditya Dhar under the banners of Jio Studios and B62 Studios, the film boasts an ensemble cast featuring Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna, R. Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, Sara Arjun, and Rakesh Bedi, among others. Drawing inspiration from real-life geopolitical tensions and covert R&AW operations, the film has been performing well at the box office and is being hailed for its gripping narrative and high-octane action sequences.
With Madhavan’s powerful words echoing the challenges and camaraderie of Bollywood, the film continues to spark conversations—both for its cinematic ambition and the discourse it has ignited.
Also Read: Trade experts comment on Dhurandhar’s 3 hours 34-minute run time: “If the film is engaging, then length is not a problem. Animal and Pushpa 2 proved it and now, Dhurandhar joins the league”
read moreLauren Gottlieb performs Grah Pooja as she moves into her new Mumbai home, calls it an invitation for “peace and gratitude”
Actress and global dance sensation Lauren Gottlieb has stepped into a new phase of her life, and she’s done it in the most heartfelt way. Moving into her new home in Mumbai, Lauren chose to mark this joyous milestone by performing a traditional Grah Pooja, grounding the moment in positivity, blessings, and spiritual grace.
Lauren’s relationship with India has always been special, a bond that goes far beyond her successful career in the entertainment industry. Over the years, she has embraced Indian values, traditions, and spirituality as her own. She was once given the loving nickname Foreign Ki Lauren, but India has claimed her and she has happily claimed India right back. Her commitment to honoring Indian culture isn’t symbolic, it’s deeply personal, lived, and celebrated through moments like these over a span of 13 beautiful years.
“I’ve built a life here in India, made memories, and now I’m building a home here once again. Performing a Grah Pooja was my way of inviting peace, gratitude, abundance, and good energy into my new home in Mumbai from day one. India has given me so much love, purpose, and belonging over the years, and incorporating these traditions into my life feels incredibly natural now. In this moment, I just feel incredibly grateful for my journey, for the beautiful people in India who have embraced me like family, and for building a home rooted in positivity and culture. I’m excited for everything this new beginning brings," shares Lauren.
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From her unforgettable performances in ABCD and ABCD 2, to going from contestant to judge on Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, and countless hit music videos to proudly representing Indian cinema at global events, Lauren has consistently been a cultural bridge between India and the world at large. Her electrifying performance of 'Naatu Naatu' on the prestigious Oscars stage, merging both her roots in Bollywood and Hollywood, remains a moment of national pride, showcasing her love and dedication to India on one of the biggest stages ever.
This marks one of the most anticipated comebacks in recent memory. Our beloved dancing diva stepping back into her power, ready to take the world stage by storm once again.
Also Read: ‘Sajri’ girl Lauren Gottlieb feels India is home: “When I stepped foot in India, I went, ‘I’m home!’, I just connect with the people in India”
read moreFrom Saiyaara, War 2 to Mrs: Bollywood dominates India’s trending movies of 2025; but none reach the global top 10
Google Trends’ 2025 ranking of the most-searched movies in India reveals a strong sweep by Hindi cinema. Titles like Saiyaara, War 2, Sanam Teri Kasam, Housefull 5, Mrs, and the animated epic Mahavatar Narsimha led the country’s search charts, signalling the continued influence of Bollywood across digital spaces. Yet despite this dominance at home, not a single Hindi film — or any Indian film — managed to enter Google’s global Top 10 searched movies list for the year.
In India, Hindi films clearly steered search curiosity. Saiyaara stood out as a top romantic musical and one of Mohit Suri’s most-talked-about releases. War 2, powered by Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR, held its position as one of the year’s most anticipated action spectacles. Sanam Teri Kasam resurfaced strongly thanks to the nostalgia around the 2016 original and renewed discussion ahead of its 2026 sequel.
Comedy franchise Housefull 5 maintained high online attention because of its ensemble cast and franchise legacy, while Mrs, headlined by Sanya Malhotra, sparked conversations for its layered storytelling and digital premiere. Meanwhile, Mahavatar Narsimha made a major impact as the biggest Indian animated success of the year, further fuelling the Hindi-dominant search landscape.
Even with South Indian juggernauts like Kantara Chapter 1, Coolie, Marco, and Game Changer also appearing in the India region list, Hindi titles emerged as the strongest cluster — but the absence of any Indian movie from the global Top 10 points to a demographic difference in what drives worldwide search trends.
As Indian cinema continues to expand its footprint through star-driven blockbusters and high-engagement OTT titles, the 2025 search data highlights a key contrast: strong national popularity doesn’t always translate into global trending status. With several major Hindi films slated for 2026, the coming year will determine whether any homegrown title can finally break into the worldwide search charts.
Also Read: Sony MAX announces World TV Premiere of Saiyaara on December 20
read moreDiljit Dosanjh confirms second collaboration with Imtiaz Ali after Amar Singh Chamkila
Diljit Dosanjh has officially confirmed his second collaboration with filmmaker Imtiaz Ali through a behind-the-scenes vlog shared from his ongoing shoot in Punjab. Posted on Instagram on Thursday, the video gives fans a rare peek into his daily routine and subtly reveals that he and Imtiaz are reuniting after the massive success of Amar Singh Chamkila.
In the vlog, Diljit is seen beginning his day at 4:30 am, followed by a workout session. He then has breakfast consisting of fruits and protein before heading to the shoot with his team. The video captures him filming in front of a green screen and sharing warm interactions with Imtiaz Ali, confirming that the director is once again helming Diljit’s next, currently untitled, project. After wrapping up the shoot, Diljit returns to a scenic haveli where he is staying during the film’s production. This upcoming film marks the duo’s second association after the critically acclaimed Amar Singh Chamkila, based on the life of the iconic Punjabi musician. Parineeti Chopra starred as Amarjot, Chamkila’s wife. Known as the “Elvis of Punjab,” Chamkila was celebrated for his electrifying performances, bold lyrical style, and cultural impact. His tragic assassination alongside Amarjot in 1988 remains one of Punjabi music’s greatest losses.
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Amar Singh Chamkila earned two nominations at the International Emmy Awards Best Actor for Diljit Dosanjh and Best TV Movie/Mini-Series. Despite not winning, the recognition spotlighted Punjabi and Indian storytelling globally and reinforced the enduring influence of Chamkila’s music. Diljit will next be seen in Border 2, the highly awaited sequel to J.P. Dutta’s 1997 classic. Directed by Anurag Singh, the film features Varun Dhawan, Ahan Shetty, and Diljit in key roles, portraying brave soldiers safeguarding the nation. Produced by T-Series and J.P. Films, Border 2 is slated to release on January 23, 2026, promising large-scale action, emotional intensity, and a patriotic storyline for today’s audiences. Also Read : Team Dhurandhar pulls off a masterstroke: Diljit Dosanjh’s ‘Ez Ez’ launched with live performance at music launch
read moreSholay 4K re-release restores original vision and James Bond line
Ramesh Sippy’s Sholay returns in an enhanced 4K version titled Sholay – The Final Cut, releasing on December 12 across more than a thousand theatres in its fully restored form, literally. The controversial replacement in the trailer of “James Bond” with “Tatya Tope” has also been reversed.
Clarifying the issue, Neeraj Joshi, in charge of Marketing & Strategy, says, “It was ‘Tatya Tope’ in the original version, and then ‘James Bond’ came in to give the dialogue a more viewer-friendly thrust. Now in the version being released, it’s ‘James Bond’ again.”
The new edition of this timeless classic, piloted by director Ramesh Sippy’s nephew Shehzad Sippy, retains its legendary stature, with exquisite production values, dialogues that have become an intrinsic part of India’s pop culture, and performances that remain endlessly resplendent.
Three vital sequences have been added in this restored version, viz. a scene where a brave Sachin Pilgaonkar confronts the dreaded Gabbar. (In the original cut, Sachin’s character Ahmed was shown riding through the ravines and later discovered as a corpse on a horse.) A moment featuring Thakur’s faithful aide Ramlal (Satyen Kappu) hammering nails into the sole of Thakur’s shoe. And, of course, the spectacular finale where Thakur (Sanjeev Kumar) stomps Gabbar with his spiked shoes.
This gruesome yet glorious climax now ends with a deeply emotional moment of shared grief between Thakur and Veeru never seen before.
The restoration took three years to complete, says Shehzad Sippy, “All credit goes to the original cast and crew for the masterpiece they created, as well as the Film Heritage Foundation for the amazing restoration job they’ve done. I am just happy we have been able to put out the makers’ original vision fifty years later and preserve this classic for future generations. I hope everyone gets to see this on the big screen for the first and hopefully not the last time.”
Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Team of Sholay – The Final Cut lands in soup over 1,500-screen release claim; STRUGGLES to get 1,000 screens due to long length, HIGH rates & Dhurandhar wave
read moreExplosion in Rs. 30,000-Crore Sunjay Kapur estate battle: Missing email attachment triggers Will scam suspicion
The Kapur family inheritance case—already brimming with allegations, rival claims and power shifts—has now taken an astonishing turn with the mysterious disappearance of a crucial email attachment linked to the late industrialist Sunjay Kapur’s disputed Will. Appearing for Sunjay’s children with Karisma Kapoor, senior advocate Mahesh Jethmalani told the Bombay High Court that the Will’s digital trail simply hasn’t been held up. And the biggest red flag? A missing attachment that may determine the fate of the Rs. 30,000-crore estate.
According to court submissions, Priya Kapur’s key witness Dinesh Agarwal sent two emails to executor Shradha Suri Marwah—the first with a Kapur Trust Deed (admittedly deleted), and the second with the scanned Will. And now it has been learnt that while the email exists in full, the Will attachment has inexplicably vanished.
Jethmalani’s assertion shook the courtroom: “You cannot delete the attachment without deleting the email.” This revelation landed a serious blow to the credibility of the Will—especially since Priya’s own filings mysteriously reference the missing document, raising a deeply uncomfortable question for the court: How can a document be cited if it allegedly disappeared?
Suspicion only intensified when viewed against the broader timeline. Agarwal and fellow attesting witness Nitin Sharma both witnessed professional leaps shortly after Sunjay Kapur death, while Priya reinstated herself as AIPL’s Managing Director within days.
Legal observers see a pattern. Jethmalani argued that “a Will that cannot withstand scrutiny at the most basic level cannot be trusted,” insinuating that rapid promotions, sudden power shifts, and the conveniently missing attachment may not be coincidental.
Legal expert Pratik Thadani noted that the High Court is expected to closely evaluate the entire chain of custody: the emails, Priya’s swift reinstatement, the witnesses’ rise, and the inconsistencies that cloud the Will’s authenticity.
With vanishing files, questionable timelines and a multi-crore empire at stake, the Kapur case now resembles a high-stakes thriller—one where a single missing attachment could decide everything.
Also Read: Priya Kapur’s ‘position swap’ defence faces major setback in Sunjay Kapur Will case: Court flags power grab, missing attachment and “suspicious suppression”
read moreEXCLUSIVE: Team of Sholay - The Final Cut lands in soup over 1,500-screen release claim; STRUGGLES to get 1,000 screens due to long length, HIGH rates & Dhurandhar wave
One of the greatest films of Indian cinema, Sholay (1975), is all set to re-release in cinemas on Friday, December 12. Titled Sholay - The Final Cut, it promises to showcase the original ending for the first time ever in India. It also includes two deleted scenes and moreover, the film will be released in 4K and Dolby 5.1 with the original 70 mm aspect ratio of 2.2:1. Sadly, the re-release hasn’t been handled well, leading to fears that the cult classic might suffer.
The first sign of trouble arose when the screening of Sholay - The Final Cut’s was cancelled at the at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), Goa. Though it was believed that the plan was dropped due to the death of Dharmendra, who stars in the film, a report by Hindustan Times carried a source of an anonymous IFFI official who confirmed that the screening was scrapped due to “technical glitches from the makers’ side”.
A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “On November 15, the team of Sholay - The Final Cut, that is, restoration partner Film Heritage Foundation (FHF) and producers Sippy Films, announced that the 1975 classic will be re-released on December 12. Interestingly, the FHF’s social media post made a claim that the film would release in 1500 screens in India. But this piece of information was missing in the posts of Sippy Films and Pen.”
A post, uploaded by Film Heritage Foundation last week, said, ‘This is the biggest ever release of a restored film befitting the return of India’s most iconic film to the big screen 50 years since it was first released’. It also hammered once again that it will have a release in 1500 screens. Finally, on December 2, a post by Sippy Films, also confirmed that the 1500 release plan was on.
Only 10 days left to go! 'Sholay: The Final Cut’ - In cinemas 12th Dec 2025
Experience the original uncut version for the first time ever, restored in 4k and Dolby 5.1 by Film Heritage Foundation.
Releasing across 1,500 screens in India. Also releasing worldwide in the… pic.twitter.com/tfV7E51V0J
— Sippy Films (@sippyfilms) December 2, 2025
The trade source continued, “The industry was shocked by this claim. After all, it is unheard of a film having such a wide release in its repeat run. Earlier, Rakesh Roshan attempted the widest re-release with Karan Arjun (1995). It had released in 1110 screens and that was possible as there was no competition. As for Sholay - The Final Cut, it was scheduled to release a week after Dhurandhar and clash with Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2, backed by Disney-Star Studio18. Hence, we wonder what made them make such a claim?”
The source then said, “As expected, it is struggling to get even 1000 screens. The team of Sholay - The Final Cut is lucky that they have a distributor in the form of Pen Marudhar Entertainment. They have used their goodwill and extensive distribution network to get as many theatres as possible. But its next to impossible for the film to release in 1500 screens.”
An industry insider commented, “Dhurandhar has picked up big time and it’ll roar in the second week. That film is more than 3.30 hours long and so is Sholay - The Final Cut. As a result, cinemas will face capacity issues. Usually, tickets of re-release films are capped at Rs. 150. But Sholay - The Final Cut’s tickets will be available at normal rates, which again, is not a good idea.”
He also said, “The timing is just wrong. There’s Avatar: Fire And Ash next Friday followed by multiple films on Christmas. Was there really a need to bring Sholay - The Final Cut in this crowded month? Couldn’t they have come in November? Or rather in the first or second week of January 2026, when the competition is much lesser?”
The insider signed off by exulting, “Sholay is a cult classic, loved by one and all. Does a legendary film require such ‘widest release ever’ marketing tactics? Nevertheless, we still hope Sholay - The Final Cut manages to find huge number of audiences. Many have never seen it on the big screen and also, with Dharam ji passing away less than a month ago, the film is back in the news. We hope all these factors contribute to its good run at the box office.”
#Sholay #SholayReRelease #SholayTheFinalCut Video #1 From The New Trailer Video #2 From The Film
James Bond Gets Replaced by Tatya Tope. Tatya Tope must have been dubbed with James Bond during the original film. In Cinemas December 12
Trailer Link: https://t.co/dFMNQUIopD pic.twitter.com/5vXx2CAhYg
— amit dadhich (@amit12354) December 5, 2025
Dialogue change leads to unrest Last week, the fans of Sholay were left angry when Sholay - The Final Cut’s trailer revealed that ‘James Bond’ was replaced by ‘Tatya Tope’ in a crucial dialogue. Bollywood Hungama was the first one to write about it.
Bollywood Hungama then spoke to Javed Akhtar and he, too, was stunned. He said, “What does this mean? And this is just one dialogue. They might have similarly changed other famous lines. The audience won’t accept this...Have they spoken to the director (Ramesh Sippy)? They have certainly not spoken to me or to Salim saab (Khan). We are the writers of those lines that are recited even today by fans of Sholay.”
To conclude Sholay – The Final Cut should have been in the news solely for restoring the original ending and bringing back the classic in 4K and 70 mm, but instead, it finds itself battling negative chatter – from the IFFI “technical” cancellation to the unrealistic 1500-screen claim and the controversial dialogue tweak. These self-inflicted blows were hardly needed for a film that has commanded love for 50 years. Hopefully, the audience will look beyond the mismanagement, turn up in good numbers and ensure that this landmark re-release is remembered for packed houses and nostalgia, not just for mistakes.
Also Read: Javed Akhtar fumes at the changed dialogue in Sholay – The Final Cut trailer, “No, you can’t tamper with this”
read moreSony MAX announces World TV Premiere of Saiyaara on December 20
When the year was all about loud blockbusters, along came Saiyaara, which became the biggest love story of the decade. After creating a storm at the box office and emerging as a massive blockbuster, the film is now all set to reach an even wider audience, ready to touch hearts across metros and the hinterlands alike, as it makes its world television premiere. Sony MAX revealed the premiere on its Instagram handle, announcing that the film will air exclusively on Sony MAX on 20th December at 8:00 PM.
Directed by Mohit Suri and produced by Yash Raj Films, Saiyaara is a musical romantic drama led by Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda, whose performances struck a chord with audiences and quickly turned them into popular heartthrobs right after the film’s release.
Indian audiences have always gravitated towards great love stories, returning to them time and again for the emotions they bring alive on screen. Saiyaara taps straight into that longing with a romance that believes in staying. It follows Krissh Kapoor (Ahaan Panday), a passionate musician, and Vaani Batra (Aneet Padda), a gentle, soft-spoken poet, whose paths cross through a shared love for music and art. When Krissh discovers that Vaani is battling Alzheimer’s, his love for her doesn’t waver… instead, he chooses to stand by her, underlining the film’s central idea that true love goes beyond all hardships.
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The film’s music stays with you long after it’s over, with the title track becoming an viral hit! With Christmas around the corner, Saiyaara makes for the perfect watch… warm, emotional and romantic. Whether you’re revisiting the film or watching it for the first time, this world television premiere on Sony MAX is one you definitely wouldn’t want to miss!
Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: How CLEAN content creator turned director – Khushaal Pawaar opens up on Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety-style Bollywood-ish title, Saiyaara connection and DARING railway climax of Khushiyan Swati Ki Koshish Raju Ki
read moreNimrit Kaur Ahluwalia begins shoot with Mouni Roy, Shaheer Sheikh for upcoming thriller series
Actress Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia, known for her impactful performances on television and Punjabi films, is all set to take an exciting leap in her career as she collaborates with Shaheer Sheikh and Mouni Roy in a highly anticipated OTT thriller project. The actress recently set social media abuzz after sharing a series of behind-the-scenes pictures featuring the star-studded cast. The photos, which include senior actor Sanjay Kapoor, Shaheer Sheikh, Mouni Roy, Avinash Mishra, Harman Singha, and Asheema Vardaan, have sparked widespread curiosity and celebration among fans.
Netizens are thrilled to see Nimrit & Shaheer together in this fresh & young pairing working alongside such a powerful ensemble, praising the on-screen dynamics the cast is expected to bring.
A source close to the project shared insight into the scale and excitement surrounding the collaboration, saying, “This is one of the most promising projects Nimrit has been a part of. Her onscreen character has the potential to hit the audience with her emotional depth and versatility. Bringing her together with talents like Shaheer Sheikh, Mouni Roy, and Sanjay Kapoor has created a lot of buzz internally as well.”
Fans are excited to see Nimrit in a completely new light, and the timing of this project aligns perfectly with her creative evolution.
While more details about the storyline and release are under wraps, the combination of a noteworthy cast and a fresh platform for Nimrit has already positioned the project as one to watch out for. Fans eagerly await further announcements as anticipation continues to build across social media.
Also Read: Teachers’ Day 2025: Bigg Boss 17 fame Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia praises her “extraordinary teacher” Seema Pahwa; says, “She is an inspiration and a guiding light”
read moreREVEALED: Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar banned in all Gulf countries
The Ranveer Singh-starrer Dhurandhar is having a great run at the box office, not just in India but also abroad. In 4 days, it has managed to collect a huge Rs. 44.08 crores overseas. This figure could have been more if the action entertainer had found a release in the Gulf countries or the UAE /GCC belt.
A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE have not released Dhurandhar. There were apprehensions that this would happen as the film is perceived as an ‘anti-Pakistan film’. Also, in the past, such films have failed to procure a release in this region. Yet, the team of Dhurandhar made an attempt, but sadly, all the countries did not approve of the theme of the film. This is why Dhurandhar hasn't been released in any of the Gulf countries.”
Besides Ranveer Singh, Dhurandhar also stars Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, R Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, Sara Arjun and Rakesh Bedi. Directed by Aditya Datt, it tells the story of an Indian officer who infiltrates Pakistan and wreaks havoc in the country’s underworld and political establishment.
Past examples
The 2024 Hrithik Roshan-Deepika Padukone starrer Fighter was initially banned in all the Gulf countries initially, except the UAE (United Arab Emirates). The film's depiction of the Pulwama attack sparked criticism from some sections in Pakistan, with accusations of the film promoting an "anti-Pakistan" agenda and "exploiting a sensitive issue".
Shockingly, a day later, even the UAE suspended its release in its territory. Following this, the makers of Fighter submitted the re-edited version of the film to the UAE ministry after removing some ‘problematic’ scenes and dialogues. However, the UAE ministry rejected the re-edited version of Fighter too.
Earlier this year, the Akshay Kumar-starrer Sky Force and the John Abraham-starrer The Diplomat were banned in several countries of the Middle East due to concerns over their content. Both these films also dealt with Pakistan.
Article 370 (2024), which was based on the revocation of a controversial article in Kashmir, was also refused certification in GCC. Tiger 3 (2023), starring Salman Khan, was banned in Oman, Kuwait and Qatar.
The Kashmir Files (2022) was banned in several Gulf states. UAE initially banned it but later cleared it with an adults-only certificate.
Also Read: “I’m blown away”: Akshay Kumar reviews Dhurandhar, calls it a “gripping tale”
read moreEXCLUSIVE: Sholay goes through the censor process once again due to re-release amid ‘James Bond-Tatya Tope’ dialogue change controversy; THREE 3-hour plus films in 3 weeks might add to exhibitors’ woes
One of the greatest films of Indian cinema, Sholay (1975), is all set to re-release. However, this re-release stands out. Titled Sholay - The Final Cut, it features the original climax of the film along with two deleted scenes, which the viewers will get to see in all its glory on the big screen for the first time ever. Moreover, the film has been restored in 4K with the original 70 mm aspect ratio of 2.2:1. The sound has been restored using the original sound negative, and the magnetic soundtrack preserved by Film Heritage Foundation. Hence, it promises a fine cinematic experience.
Since the film has added three new scenes, the makers had to go through the censor process. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) saw Sholay - The Final Cut on November 24, 2025 and passed it with a ‘U’ certificate. Thankfully, no cuts were enforced. The length of the film, as mentioned on the censor certificate, is 209.05 minutes. In other words, Sholay - The Final Cut is 3 hours 29 minutes and 5 seconds long. The original 1975 version is said to be around 190 minutes, or 3 hours and 10 minutes long.
Interestingly, it was the then CBFC, and also the government of the day, that compelled director Ramesh Sippy to change the ending of the film. The original ending featured Thakur (Sanjeev Kumar) killing the villain, Gabbar Singh (Amjad Khan).
Bollywood Hungama exclusively spoke to director Ramesh Sippy in October about the changed ending. He said, “In 1975, it was the time of the Emergency. So, we couldn’t argue too much. But the end that I put in had to be shot (at the last minute). This changed climax was the same ending that took place in every film at that time. The police comes and says, ‘Ruk jaao’! So, it was a typical ending. That’s what I didn’t like; there was no other reason. However, the Censor officials stressed that ‘He’s an officer. He should not be taking the law into his own hands'. Actually, I can’t say hands as he didn’t have any (laughs)!”
Sadly, the re-censor process has led to fears among fans that the team behind Sholay - The Final Cut have tampered with the film’s dialogues. Last week, the fans of Sholay were left angry when Sholay - The Final Cut’s trailer revealed that ‘James Bond’ was replaced by ‘Tatya Tope’ in a crucial dialogue. Bollywood Hungama was the first one to write about it. Even Javed Akhtar, who wrote the dialogues along with Salim Khan, protested this shocking change.
Exhibitors’ woes
Meanwhile, exhibitors are gearing up not just for a crowded December but also for unusually long films in a short span. The first three weeks of December will see three films with more than 3 hours run time arriving one after another. It started with last week’s Dhurandhar; the Ranveer Singh-starrer has a run time of 3 hours and 34 minutes. Sholay - The Final Cut, as aforementioned, is 3 hours and 29 minutes long. Next week’s highly-awaited Avatar: Fire And Ash, meanwhile, has a length of 3 hours and 17 minutes.
An exhibition source told Bollywood Hungama, “We have had 3 hours plus long films releasing once in a blue moon. But this is the first time it has happened to have 3 films back-to-back with such lengthy run times. We’ll manage this week and next as Sholay - The Final Cut is not taking a lot of screen space. But next week will be a challenge when we’ll have to accommodate Avatar: Fire And Ash and Dhurandhar. The latter has picked up and how, and it's clear that it's not going to stop for a few weeks.”
Also Read: Javed Akhtar fumes at the changed dialogue in Sholay – The Final Cut trailer, “No, you can’t tamper with this”
read moreOscar-winning filmmaker Darren Aronofsky teases collab with Kartik Aaryan after chai meet-up
Kartik Aaryan sparked widespread speculation online after sharing a brief video featuring acclaimed Hollywood filmmaker Darren Aronofsky. Known for films such as Black Swan, Requiem for a Dream, The Wrestler, and the Academy Award–winning The Whale, Aronofsky’s appearance alongside the Bollywood actor immediately drew attention.
The buzz intensified when Aronofsky commented on Kartik’s post with, “Should we announce our collab here?” The light-hearted remark prompted curiosity about a potential project involving the two. While no official confirmation has been made, the exchange fuelled discussions about the possibility of a cross-industry collaboration.
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Kartik later posted an Instagram story describing the meeting and expressing his admiration, writing, “Black Swan, The Whale are some of my fav films and you are a legend my friend, it was lovely to have chai with you!! Can't wait for you know what.”
The interaction adds to Kartik Aaryan’s growing visibility outside India. In recent years, the actor has appeared at major international events and expanded his global outreach through endorsements and festival appearances. His meeting with Aronofsky has further contributed to the conversation around Indian performers taking on an increasingly prominent role in global entertainment.
Also Read: SCOOP: Trailer of Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri expected to be launched on December 15 in a GRAND event in the presence of Kartik Aaryan, Ananya Panday
read moreAlia Bhatt honoured with Golden Globe Horizon Award at Red Sea International Film Festival
At the 5th Red Sea International Film Festival, Alia Bhatt was honoured with the prestigious Golden Globe Horizon Award, accompanied by a special retrospective celebrating her remarkable journey in cinema.
Emerging as one of the festival’s most celebrated personalities, Alia’s recognition marks a major milestone in her global trajectory. The announcement, made by the festival on Instagram, further cements her growing influence on the international stage.
Helen Hoehne, President of the Golden Globes, shared, “We are equally thrilled to recognize and celebrate Alia Bhatt with the Golden Globes Horizon Award, celebrating her exceptional contributions to international cinema and the continued rise of the Middle East as a dynamic and influential hub for film and television on a global stage.”
The Horizon Award honours emerging creative forces whose rapid ascent is shaping regional and global culture across the Middle East, Asia, and North Africa.
“This is an honor to be recognized by the Golden Globes and I am grateful for the opportunity to speak for a new generation of aspiring performers and women who are making a difference in film and television around the world,” Bhatt said. “At a time when global voices are coming together to tell more inclusive and impactful stories, this recognition feels especially meaningful. The Golden Globes are an iconic part of the global awards universe and I am delighted to be part of it and look forward to continuing my career in telling more stories of powerful and deserving women.”
Also Read: Alia Bhatt drops unseen pics from Raha’s birthday and new home puja with Ranbir Kapoor; watch
read moreSCOOP: Trailer of Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri expected to be launched on December 15 in a GRAND event in the presence of Kartik Aaryan, Ananya Panday
2025 will end on a romantic and fun note thanks to Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri. Starring Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday, the romcom has caught attention thanks to its fresh pairing, vibrant and youthful feel, breathtaking locations and peppy songs. Bollywood Hungama has learned that if all goes well, the trailer of the film will be unveiled early next week.
A source told Bollywood Hungama, “The team of the film plans to launch the trailer on Monday, December 15. Mostly, the date is locked, but a final call will be taken today, that is, Thursday, December 11.”
The source further said, “A grand event is being planned in Mumbai. It’ll be attended by lead actors Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday, director Sameer Vidwans and producers Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta and Bhumika Tewari of Dharma Productions and Shareen Mantri Kedia and Kishor Arora of Namah Pictures. One can expect a fun event as the makers are pumped about their product and since it’s a light-hearted entertainer, the team is expected to crack jokes and make merry.”
The source also added, “Until now, the teaser and songs of Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri have been out. The trailer is keenly awaited as it’ll help viewers understand the story of the film. Even the trade and industry are keeping an eye on the same, as it is one of the most significant releases of 2025.”
Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri is all set to arrive in cinemas on Christmas, that is, December 25. Earlier, the romcom was scheduled to be released on Valentine’s Day 2026. It was preponed to December 31, 2025. After the Alia Bhatt-Sharvari starrer Alpha moved to April 17, 2026, Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri makers took the vacant Christmas slot.
Also Read: Kartik Aaryan praises Ananya Panday in Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri: “She’s talented, she keeps working hard on herself”
read moreBombay HC asks Shilpa Shetty, Raj Kundra to deposit Rs 60 crores for travel, and LOC relief
The Bombay High Court has directed actor Shilpa Shetty and her husband, businessman Raj Kundra, to deposit Rs 60 crore or provide a continuous bank guarantee from a nationalised bank before it will consider lifting a Lookout Circular (LOC) restricting their foreign travel. This order came during a hearing on their urgent plea to visit London for Kundra's ailing father, who is undergoing serious medical treatment. The bench of Justices AS Gadkari and RR Bhonsale emphasised the need to demonstrate bona fides amid doubts about their return to India.
The LOC stems from a Rs 60.48 crore fraud complaint filed by Deepak Kothari, Director of UY Industries Pvt Ltd, alleging the couple induced him to invest in their now-defunct Best Deal TV Pvt Ltd between 2015 and 2023. Kothari claims the funds, provided as a loan with Shetty's personal guarantee, were misused amid heavy business losses, with no recovery despite repeated demands. The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of Mumbai Police is investigating, having issued the LOC to ensure the couple's availability.
Senior Advocate Abad Ponda, representing the couple, argued against depositing the full amount, suggesting surety or a reasonable alternative, and stressed the trip's medical urgency with a firm return commitment. The bench rejected partial measures, insisting on the entire sum via deposit or bank guarantee, and scheduled further instructions for next week. The couple denies criminality, calling the case malicious and aimed at extortion by tarnishing their reputation.
Best Deal TV, launched in 2015 with endorsements from Shetty and ex-partner Akshay Kumar, collapsed after burning Rs 100 crore in 18 months, fuelling allegations of fund diversion to personal expenses or linked entities. No arrests have occurred, but prior pleas for quashing the FIR or LOC relief were denied without repayment. The case highlights rising scrutiny on celebrity-backed ventures post-demonetisation business failures.
Also Read: Shilpa Shetty, Raj Kundra move Bombay HC seeking travel permission amid father’s health crisis in London
read moreDelhi HC examines validity of Sunjay Kapur will over absence of probate and executor action; details inside
A fresh layer of legal complexity has emerged in the ongoing inheritance dispute over the estimated Rs 30,000 crores estate of late industrialist Sunjay Kapur, with senior advocates questioning the validity of the Will produced by his third wife, Priya Kapur, on grounds of non-compliance with probate requirements and absence of executor consent.
During proceedings on December 10, 2025, counsel representing Sunjay Kapur’s children, Samaira and Kiaan Kapur, argued before the Delhi High Court that the alleged Will suffers from structural and legal infirmities that go beyond procedural lapses. At the centre of the challenge is the conduct of the named executor, Shradha Suri Marwah, who, according to the Will’s own clauses, was required to immediately assume custody of the estate’s assets and initiate probate proceedings following Kapur’s death.
Senior advocate Mahesh Jethmalani contended that neither step was taken. “Defendant no. 4 has acted in complete dereliction of the alleged Will,” he submitted, pointing out that no probate has been sought and no assets were taken under the executor’s control, despite the document making probate a mandatory requirement. Clause 3 of the Will, he argued, leaves no discretion on the matter.
The issue was further complicated by a June 24, 2025 communication in which Suri reportedly wrote to Priya Kapur, asking her to initiate probate proceedings. According to the children’s counsel, this correspondence implicitly acknowledges that the legal obligation to seek probate lay with the executor herself. They maintain that this contradiction undermines the document’s credibility and raises questions about whether the Will was ever intended to be acted upon as claimed.
Adding to the challenge is Suri’s earlier statement that she had no prior knowledge of being appointed executor until she allegedly received an email from Dinesh Agarwal, a witness to the purported Will. Jethmalani argued that under settled law, an executor cannot be appointed without consent or at least prior consultation, calling the lack of such consent a “serious red flag” in the Will’s execution and presentation.
Legal experts echoed these concerns. Bombay High Court lawyer Rahul R. Shelke said the inconsistencies strike at the root of enforceability. “If a Will mandates probate and custodial transfer and the executor ignores both, the court is entitled to question whether the Will existed in the manner claimed. You cannot selectively rely on a Will—either it is followed in full or its credibility collapses,” he noted.
Alongside questions over probate, the children’s counsel also pressed the court to appoint an independent administrator to safeguard Sunjay Kapur’s overseas assets until the Will’s validity is conclusively determined. Jethmalani warned that without court oversight, foreign assets could be sold, refinanced or otherwise dealt with, potentially dragging the parties into multiple overseas legal battles.
“There should be a receiver or an administrator appointed for Sunjay’s assets. If this Will is used overseas, we could be forced to litigate in several jurisdictions,” he told the court, stressing that unlike domestic assets, foreign holdings can be moved or encumbered with little real-time supervision.
Sunjay Kapur’s international portfolio reportedly includes residential properties in New York and the United Kingdom, as well as overseas-linked investments connected to Aureus Investments Pvt Ltd. According to the children’s side, ownership claims to these assets currently rest on the disputed Will.
Senior advocate Pratik Thadani observed that ambiguity becomes particularly risky when foreign assets are involved. “It is neither wise nor equitable to leave control with a single beneficiary when a Will is under challenge and executor obligations remain unfulfilled. Appointing an independent administrator is not about choosing sides but about protecting the estate until the court reaches a final view,” he said.
The concern, as outlined before the court, is that once transactions based on an unverified Will take place abroad, they may be difficult or impossible to reverse, even if an Indian court later rejects the document. For Samaira and Kiaan Kapur, the demand for an administrator is positioned as a protective measure to preserve the estate and ensure that the final adjudication is not rendered meaningless by irreversible cross-border actions.
As the Delhi High Court continues to scrutinise the alleged Will, the dispute now hinges not just on signatures and witnesses, but on whether the document was ever acted upon in the manner the law requires.
Also Read: Priya Kapur’s ‘position swap’ defence faces major setback in Sunjay Kapur Will case: Court flags power grab, missing attachment and “suspicious suppression”
read moreEXCLUSIVE: ‘Inappropriate’ use of real name chopped in Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2; CBFC leaves all religion-based humour UNTOUCHED
The comic caper Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2 is all set to release on Friday, December 12, and the audience is looking forward to it due to its comic quotient, Kapil Sharma’s casting and the popularity of the first part, Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon (2015), which had a successful run at the box office. This time, the protagonist is seen marrying girls from different religious communities. Times are sensitive and hence, there were apprehensions that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) will ask for changes or deletions in the dialogues. However, none of that has happened.
As per the cut list accessed exclusively by Bollywood Hungama, the Examining Committee of the CBFC has asked for just one cut, that is, they asked makers to remove ‘inappropriate’ use of a real name in a scene at the beginning of the film and replace it with an appropriate word. A source told us, “All the dialogues related to religion and communities have been left untouched because the makers have been careful not to hurt any sentiments. The CBFC members appreciated this move and saw no reason to ask for any cuts. Even visually, there was nothing to cut or tone down.”
The source added, “Nevertheless, the film was passed with a U/A 16+ rating and not U/A 13+ or U/A 7+ presumably as the film deals with a man having multiple wives.”
Once the aforementioned cut was enforced, the makers of Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2 were given the censor certificate on November 25. The length of the film, as mentioned on the certificate, is 142.25 minutes. In other words, Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2 is 2 hours, 22 minutes and 25 seconds long.
Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2 is directed by Anukalp Goswami and besides Kapil Sharma, it also stars Hira Warina, Tridha Choudhary, Parul Gulati, Ayesha Khan, Manjot Singh, Akhilendra Mishra, Vipin Sharma, Sushant Singh, Jamie Lever and the late Asrani.
Also Read: Director Anukalp Goswami reveals that Censors passed Kapil Sharma’s Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2 with ZERO cuts; assures that it won’t hurt religious sentiments: “People from different communities would enjoy it… a film like this is possible ONLY in India”
read moreThe Great Indian Kapil Show returns with season 4 on Netflix from December 20
The Great Indian Kapil Show is set to return to Netflix with its fourth season, promising a fresh dose of humour, new characters, and an expanded comic universe. Season 4 will premiere on December 20, marking Kapil Sharma’s comeback with what the makers describe as a brand-new “mastiverse” of laughter, chaos, and family-friendly entertainment.
This season sees Kapil stepping into multiple new avatars, including GenZ Baba, Tau ji, Raja, and Mantri Ji, alongside characters that audiences have grown fond of over the years. Designed to appeal across generations, the new lineup aims to widen the show’s comic palette while retaining its familiar warmth. With every season, the show has evolved into a shared viewing experience, drawing families together through humour that cuts across age groups.
Adding to the excitement is an eclectic guest lineup planned for the season. From World Cup champions and global personalities to Gen Z icons and Bhojpuri stars, the upcoming episodes promise a mix of surprise appearances and lively conversations, keeping the format dynamic and unpredictable.
Kapil is joined once again by his trusted on-screen parivaar. Sunil continues to bring his knack for turning the simplest moments into laugh-out-loud sketches, while Kiku and Krushna return in unexpected avatars that push the boundaries of comic transformation. Archana Puran Singh’s unmistakable laughter remains a fixture on the show, with Navjot Singh Sidhu also returning with his trademark one-liners and high-energy presence.
Speaking about the new season and his many avatars, Kapil Sharma said, “Har baar lagta hai ki ab toh sab kar liya, naye season me kya karunga, lekin phir aapka pyaar aur aapki umeed mujhe kuch naya karne ka rasta dikha deti hai, iss baar bhi aap hi ki ummeedo ne mujhe bahut se naye kirdar aur sath hi wo kirdaar jo aapko humesha se pasand aaye hain, unhe nibhaane ka rasta dikhaya hai … toh aapke liye comedy ke wo saare avtaar lekar aa raha hoon Netflix par, season 4 me … jo hoga comedy ke universe ka multiverse yani mastiverse.”
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Sharing her thoughts on the return of the show, Tanya Bami, Series Head, Netflix India, said, “The Great Indian Kapil Show is not just a show for us. It’s something that has begun to define family time and Netflix time for India and many Indians outside of our country as well! We are so happy to announce season four! This is a very special season because Kapil is going to be enthralling the audience through many characters that he is going to be playing. So along with Sunil, Krushna, Kiku, Archana and Sidhu, this season will see the Best of Kapil as well - something that the audience has been waiting for. The mastiverse is here on the 20th of December.”
With Season 4, the show positions itself as a comfort watch rooted in familiar humour, while expanding its scope through new characters and larger-than-life comic setups. Blending chaos with warmth, The Great Indian Kapil Show aims to continue its run as a staple of weekend family entertainment.
The Great Indian Kapil Show Season 4 will stream from December 20, every Saturday at 8:00 pm, exclusively on Netflix.
Also Read: Anukalp Goswami calls Kapil Sharma the ‘Shah Rukh Khan of comedy’ ahead of Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2
read moreAnurag Kashyap’s Kennedy becomes ONLY Indian film selected for Letterboxd Video Store: "Finally the film will be available for the general audience"
Anurag Kashyap’s globally acclaimed neo-noir thriller Kennedy has achieved another significant milestone, becoming the only Indian film selected for the inaugural lineup of Letterboxd’s first-ever Video Store. The development marks a major moment for Indian cinema, as the film joins a carefully curated list of international titles on the global film discovery platform.
Letterboxd will officially launch its online rental platform, Video Store, on December 10. The service will offer a selection of acclaimed films, including festival favourites and Academy Award submissions that have largely remained inaccessible to wider audiences. Available across 23 countries at launch, the platform follows a transactional video-on-demand (TVOD) model, allowing viewers to rent films without a subscription. Among the nine hand-picked titles featured in the debut lineup is Kennedy, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2023 and quickly became one of the most talked-about Indian films on the international circuit.
Reacting to the news, Anurag Kashyap said, "I am happy that finally the film will be available for the general audience to watch in some parts of the world. It’s one of my most personal films and would love to get the audience feedback and reaction, and I am thankful to Letterboxd for putting it on their new platform. And I am, hopeful that we’ll soon be able to release it in India too as the producers are working on it."
Starring Rahul Bhatt and Sunny Leone, Kennedy is produced by Ranjan Singh, Good Bad Films, and Zee Studios. Shot predominantly at night across Mumbai over an intense 30-day schedule, the film follows an insomniac former cop, presumed dead, who continues to operate within a corrupt system while searching for personal redemption. Its moody visual palette and uncompromising narrative have earned it widespread critical attention.
Producer Ranjan Singh described the inclusion in Letterboxd’s Video Store as a momentous milestone for the team. He noted, "Yes, it’s a great moment that after traveling to almost 30 festivals across the world, the film will be available to cinephiles in these countries and we are extremely proud as the only Indian film in this line-up. We want to thank Letterboxd for choosing Kennedy and our studio partners Zee Studios for the support that they’ve given to make this possible. We are working together on the India release of the film soon."
Umesh Bansal, Chief Business Officer at Zee Studios, echoed the sentiment, stating, "Extremely elated to see Kennedy being talked about very highly in the Overseas market. This is a film, which we are truly proud of. We thank Letterboxd for this opportunity & are awaiting to see the audiences' response."
Sophie Shi, Head of Studios at EST N8, which facilitated the release, said, "We’re proud to help bring Kennedy to audiences through Letterboxd’s first-ever Video Store. EST N8 is committed to elevating bold Asian storytelling globally, and Kennedy embodies that mission. We’re thrilled to see Anurag Kashyap’s powerful film reach even more cinephiles."
Following its Cannes premiere, Kennedy went on to screen at several major festivals, including the Sydney International Film Festival, Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival, Neuchâtel International Fantastic Film Festival, MOTELX in Lisbon, Indie Meme Film Festival in Austin, the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, London Indian Film Festival, Fantastic Fest in the US, Jio MAMI Mumbai Film Festival, and the Kolkata International Film Festival, among others.
The film will be available on Letterboxd Video Store in countries including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Australia, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, and Switzerland.
Also Read: Anurag Kashyap’s Kennedy continues global run, screens at 10th Indie Meme Film Festival; filmmaker says India release “should happen soon”
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