Ajaz Khan garners just 131 votes in Maharashtra polls; despite 5.6M Instagram followers

Former Bigg Boss contestant and actor Ajaz Khan ventured into politics by contesting the Maharashtra assembly elections from the Versova constituency under the Aazad Samaj Party (Kanshi Ram) banner. According to the Election Commission's latest tally, he garnered only 131 votes.

Despite having over 5.6 million Instagram followers, Ajaz Khan's social media popularity did not convert into votes.

In the Versova constituency, Haroon Khan leads with 58,047 votes, while the NOTA (None of the Above) option has received 1,022 votes—nearly six times Ajaz Khan's total of 131 votes.

The voter turnout in Versova stood at 42.2%.

Traditionally a Congress stronghold, the Versova constituency had 16 candidates contesting in this election. Maharashtra witnessed its highest voter turnout in over three decades, reflecting the intense competition between the Mahayuti alliance (BJP-Shiv Sena-NCP) and the Maha Vikas Aghadi (NCP(SP)-Shiv Sena (UBT)-Congress).

Early trends on Saturday indicated a strong lead for the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance, putting it on track for a decisive majority in the Maharashtra Assembly elections.

In the 288-member Maharashtra Assembly, the Mahayuti alliance led in 231 seats, leaving the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) with just 51. The BJP, contesting 149 seats, had either won or was leading in 130, while the Shiv Sena and NCP were ahead in 56 and 39 constituencies, respectively.

Also Read : Bigg Boss fame Ajaz Khan to be summoned in Rs 30 lakh MDMA case involving staff: Reports

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Shah Rukh Khan-Salman Khan’s Karan Arjun amongst the top 3 openers of all time in the HISTORY of re-releases; opens bigger than Rockstar, Kal Ho Naa Ho, Veer-Zaara, Pushpa

One of the most loved films of Indian cinema, Karan Arjun (1995), had a grand re-release yesterday, November 22. Starring Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan, it managed to open at Rs. 26 lakhs, and is thus, now the third biggest opening day grosser for a re-release.

The re-release trend picked up big time this year and the biggest grosser in this regard was Tumbbad at Rs. 1.50 crores. This was followed by Laila Majnu, which opened at Rs. 30 lakhs. Karan Arjun, meanwhile, earned Rs. 26 lakhs and that’s more than the re-release first-day collections of Veer-Zaara (Rs. 20 lakhs), Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein (Rs. 20 lakhs), Kal Ho Naa Ho (Rs. 12 lakhs) and Rockstar (Rs. 7 lakhs).

Interestingly, Karan Arjun also collected more than Ajay Devgn’s Naam, a two-decade-old film, which finally had a release yesterday. It collected Rs. 20 lakhs. Pushpa also arrived yet again in cinemas as its sequel will be out in less than 2 weeks. But it managed to earn Rs. 15 lakhs, that is, Rs. 11 lakhs less than Karan Arjun.

Bollywood re-releases typically fall into two categories: films that underperformed initially but gained a cult following and opened big during re-release like Tumbbad, Laila Majnu and to some extent Rockstar. Then there were blockbuster hits from their original run that might not create the same urgency to revisit but will find its audience slowly and steadily. Karan Arjun belongs to the latter category and in that regard, its opening is praiseworthy.

Karan Arjun is expected to have a healthy weekend and with no competition for the next few weeks, it’ll have an open run until the release of Pushpa 2 on December 5.

Karan Arjun’s re-release also had more than three weeks of promotional campaign, spearheaded by producer-director Rakesh Roshan. It was released in 1114 theatres and 2208 shows in India and 250 theatres overseas. This simultaneous re-release in India and overseas was a first for any Bollywood film. Rakesh Roshan's innovative re-release strategy aimed to reintroduce the classic to modern audiences, blending new-age and traditional tools. The blockbuster filmmaker worked tirelessly to enhance the audio-visual experience, ensuring it resonated with new and old fans alike.

Also Read: Why you couldn’t rent Karan Arjun in 1995 – How Rakesh Roshan’s masterstroke to delay video cassettes proved to be a game changer at the box office

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AR Rahman’s bassist Mohini Dey pens note on social media addressing her linkup rumours with his divorce; says, “I know exactly what it’s about”

On Tuesday, AR Rahman took the nation by shock as he announced separation from his wife after 29 years of marriage. While his kids have requested privacy and addressed the media showcasing their support towards their family and parents, another divorce note which was from the musical maestro’s bassist Mohini Dey has further added to the speculations. Considering that the musician announced soon after the maestro shared this life update has got netizens talking.

Mohini Dey, who has performed for AR Rahman for many years, incidentally announced her divorce on the same day as the latter which has fueled up rumours. After the musician’s lawyers addressed the same earlier this week, now Dey too has decided to speak up on it. While she maintained silence all this while, on Friday, she took to her Instagram handle to share a note on her story which asserted her stance on the ongoing rumours as she wrote about the innumerable interview calls coming her way. “I've been getting a humongous amount of requests for interviews and I know exactly what it’s about so, I have to respectfully turn each one down because I am not interested in fueling into ABSOLUTE BS! I believe my energy is not worth spending on RUMOURS. Kindly, respect my privacy. <3 Mo”.

While AR Rahman has not reacted to these reports, his son A R Ameen too took to his Instagram story to react to these rumours, denying them and requested everyone to maintain dignity. His note said, “My father is a legend, not just for his incredible contributions but for the values, respect, and love he has earned over the years. It's disheartening to see false and baseless rumours being spread. Let us all remember the importance of truth and respect when speaking about someone's life and legacy. Please refrain from engaging in or spreading such misinformation. Let's honor and preserve the dignity and the incredible impact he has had on all of us.”

Meanwhile, the legal team of AR Rahman also addressed these rumours. “There is no connection at all. Saira and Mr Rahman made this decision on their own”, they were quoted telling Republic TV recently.

Also Read: AR Rahman marks first social media post after divorce, celebrates HMMA win for The Goat Life

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Alia Bhatt returns as ALT EFF goodwill ambassador; for sustainability and environmental awareness

ALT EFF has announced the return of Alia Bhatt as its goodwill ambassador. Through her production banner, Eternal Sunshine Productions, Bhatt continues to support sustainability and environmental awareness. Joining her is Richie Mehta, acclaimed filmmaker and brand ambassador, known for directing Poachers under Bhatt’s banner. The series explores the relationship between humans and the environment.

ALT EFF, known for curating impactful films that shed light on critical environmental issues, has found a steadfast ally in Alia Bhatt. Her production house Eternal Sunshine has previously produced Poachers, a gripping series that explores the intricate relationship between humanity and nature, reflecting her deep commitment to fostering conversations around ecological harmony.

Alia Bhatt expressed, “I am so thrilled to announce that once again Eternal Sunshine Productions partnering with All Living Things Environmental Film Festival for its 2024 edition. So this festival is truly special, it's a celebration of films that uplifts and showcase nature's resilience and reminds us how beautiful it is to protect our planet. It is an opportunity for all of us to see and feel the real impact of environmental change through powerful story telling. With over 100 screenings across India Alt Eff brings together the most compelling stories about our climate, our planet and the future shaping together.”

Festival Director Kunal Khanna expressed his excitement about Alia’s continued association and stated, “Alia Bhatt is not just a remarkable artist but also a passionate advocate for the environment. Her creative endeavors through Eternal Sunshine exemplify the transformative power of storytelling in addressing pressing global challenges. With Alia and Richie Mehta as our ambassadors, ALT EFF is uniquely positioned to amplify the voices of filmmakers who seek to use impact film and storytelling to drive environmental action. Together, we are building a platform that goes beyond films, inspiring tangible change and hope.”

ALT EFF 2024 will feature a lineup of films, workshops, and panel discussions focused on pressing environmental issues. With Alia Bhatt and Richie Mehta leading the initiative, the festival aims to inspire communities worldwide to reconsider their relationship with the planet.

Also Read : Alia Bhatt to collaborate with Nag Ashwin for emotional, empowering female-led drama; Report

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AR Rahman, Saira Banu’s lawyer on speculations about reasons behind their separation: “It is a painful decision, but it is a joint decision”

Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman and his wife, Saira, have chosen to part ways after almost 30 years of marriage. Their lawyer, Vandana Shah, confirmed the mutual decision and requested privacy for the family during this challenging period.

Rahman and Saira's lawyer spoke out

Vandana Shah told ANI, “The divorce hasn't happened yet. I am representing both of them. I can't reveal the reason, but it is a marriage of 29 years. In every marriage, ups and downs are common. It is a painful decision, but it is a joint decision. Family's privacy must be respected at this point of time.”

The news was first announced through a joint statement issued by Saira's lawyer, Vandana Shah. The couple cited "significant emotional strain" as the reason for their decision to part ways.

“On behalf and instruction of Mrs. Saira and her husband renowned musician Allahrakka Rahman (A.R. Rahman), Vandana Shah and Associates issue the following statement regarding the couple's decision to part ways,” the statement read in part.

The statement further read, “After many years of marriage, Mrs. Saira and her husband, Mr. A R. Rahman, have made the difficult decision to separate from each other. This decision comes after significant emotional strain in their relationship. Despite their deep love for each other, the couple has found that the tensions and difficulties have created an insurmountable gap between them, one that neither party feels able to bridge at this time. Mrs. Saira and her husband Mr. A R. Rahman emphasize that they have taken this decision out of pain and agony.”

AR Rahman and Saira Banu’s marriage

The composer also shared the news on his X account on Wednesday, expressing that while they had hoped to celebrate their "grand thirty," life had different plans.

“We had hoped to reach the grand thirty, but all things, it seems, carry an unseen end. Even the throne of God might tremble at the weight of broken hearts. Yet, in this shattering, we seek meaning, though the pieces may not find their place again. To our friends, thank you for your kindness and for respecting our privacy as we walk through this fragile chapter,” his post on X read.

AR Rahman and Saira married in 1995 and have three children: Khatija, Raheema, and Ameen.

AR Rahman’s work

On the work front, Rahman was recently honoured with the 'XTIC Award 2024 for Innovation' by IIT Madras for his virtual reality film Le Musk. The renowned composer also launched the film's soundtrack worldwide through Believe Music. Rahman has composed iconic soundtracks for films such as Roja, Bombay, Dil Se, Lagaan, and Rockstar. He gained international recognition for his work on Slumdog Millionaire, which earned him two Academy Awards.

In addition to his work in Bollywood, Rahman has contributed to Hollywood films such as 127 Hours and Million Dollar Arm. He has also collaborated with international artists including Mick Jagger, Andrew Lloyd Webber, and will.i.am.

Also Read : AR Rahman and wife Saira announce separation after 29 years of marriage: “Pieces may not find their place again”

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Shah Rukh Khan Death Threat Case: Accused lawyer Faizan Khan tracked Shah Rukh Khan’s family, searched security details

A new report suggests that the individual arrested for issuing death threats to actor Shah Rukh Khan was monitoring his activities and attempting to gather private details about his family. The accused, identified as Raipur-based lawyer Faizan Khan, is in custody for allegedly threatening the actor and demanding extortion.

According to a report by The Times of India, investigations revealed that Faizan Khan conducted extensive online searches to gather information about Shah Rukh Khan's family's security arrangements and movements. He also tracked the movements of the actor and his son, Aryan Khan. This discovery was made through a forensic analysis of Faizan's second mobile phone, recovered by the Bandra Police investigation team.

Reports indicate that Faizan, currently in judicial custody for ten days, has been providing investigators with evasive and contradictory explanations for his searches related to Shah Rukh Khan and his family's movements. Both Shah Rukh and Aryan Khan are under Y-plus security cover provided by the Maharashtra government.

On November 7, the Mumbai Police received an anonymous call threatening Shah Rukh Khan's life and demanding a ₹50 lakh extortion. The call was traced to Raipur, linking the phone to Faizan Khan. Initially, Faizan claimed his phone had been stolen and that he was being framed.

Following preliminary investigations, the police arrested Faizan on November 12 and brought him in for questioning. He was placed in police custody until November 18 and later remanded to judicial custody for two weeks. Notably, Faizan had previously filed a complaint against Shah Rukh Khan regarding a dialogue in his 1994 film Anjaam about deer hunting.

Also Read : Shah Rukh Khan, Mahesh Babu, and Arjun Das lead star-studded voice cast for Mufasa: The Lion King in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu; deets inside

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SCOOP: Raveena Tandon in talks for a sizzling role in Kartik Aaryan's Pati Patni Aur Woh 2

In 2022, Raveena Tandon won over the audience with her strong performance in K.G.F: Chapter 2, and ever since then, there has been her resurgence in the Hindi film industry. While she is all set to reunite with Akshay Kumar in Welcome To The Jungle, Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learnt that Raveena Tandon is in talks to play a key role in Pati Patni Aur Woh 2.

A source told Bollywood Hungama on anonymity, "Raveena Tandon is in advanced talks with Mudassar Aziz for Pati Patni Aur Woh 2. She has been offered a sexy role in the sequel to this comic caper, and is very excited to sign on for the film." The source tells us further, "It's Raveena's character that leads to the confusion in the life of the leading hero - Kartik Aaryan. We shall get a clear picture on her doing the film by January 2025."

Pati Patni Aur Woh 2 is presently in the scripting stage and is expected to go on floors in the Summer 2025. "After Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, this is the next big franchise that Kartik is looking to own in his name. He has realised the power of franchises in modern era and is focusing on them to get the box office numbers."

Apart from Raveena Tandon, Pati Patni Aur Woh 2 will also star Bhumi Pednekar in the lead role, who plays the part of Patni, much like part one.

Also Read: Raveena Tandon and Manoj Bajpayee celebrate 25 years of Shool with nostalgic post

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