Dhurandhar first look out: Ranveer Singh-starrer CONFIRMED to arrive in theatres on December 5; take a look inside Aditya Dhar’s world

On the occasion of his 40th birthday, actor Ranveer Singh received a special cinematic tribute as the makers of Dhurandhar unveiled the first official asset from the highly anticipated film. Directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Aditya Dhar, Dhurandhar brings together a powerful ensemble cast and marks Singh’s next big theatrical release after a brief hiatus from the big screen.

The first look video opens with R. Madhavan’s intense voiceover: “Bahut saal pehle kisi ne mujse kaha tha, ‘Pados mein rehte hain, godde bhar ka zor laga lo, bigaad lo jo bigaad sakte ho.’ Bigaadne ka waqt aa gaya hai.” His words set the tone for the gripping, politically charged world of Dhurandhar — a world on the brink of chaos.

What follows is a blood-soaked, fierce visual of Ranveer Singh — his face scarred and smeared in red — exuding a dangerous calm. The mood is reminiscent of his menacing turn as Alauddin Khilji in Padmaavat, with the same haunting eyes and restrained fury. Singh delivers just one line in the teaser, but it lands with weight: “Ghayal hoon, isliye ghatak hoon.”

 

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Produced by Jio Studios and B62 Studios, Dhurandhar also stars Sanjay Dutt, R. Madhavan, Akshaye Khanna, and Arjun Rampal, a line-up that has already generated considerable buzz. This is director Aditya Dhar’s second major film after the 2019 blockbuster URI: The Surgical Strike, which earned him acclaim for both scale and storytelling.

Interestingly, the first look video also confirmed that the film will be released on December 5, 2025. It is worth noting that Bollywood Hungama was the first one to report on the Ranveer Singh starrer's release date. It will clash with Prabhas' The Raja Saab.

Also Read: Ranveer Singh turns 40: Karan Johar calls Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani star “lord of bling” in heartfelt poetic birthday note

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Farhan Akhtar’s Don 3 finally gets rolling: Ranveer Singh - Kiara Advani to shoot from January 2026, Priyanka Chopra may return

The long-awaited Don 3, directed by Farhan Akhtar, which had been delayed for various reasons, is finally set to begin shooting in January 2026. Confirming this development, a source told Subhash K Jha, “Yes, there’s been a delay—but it couldn’t be helped. Ranveer Singh, who replaced Shah Rukh Khan in the franchise, had to deal with a wave of online trolling for ‘daring’ to step into SRK’s shoes. Farhan and Ranveer mutually decided to lie low and let the heat die down. Ranveer also needed time to physically and mentally prepare for the role, which requires rigorous martial arts training.”

The source further added, “After that, Kiara Advani—who was signed on to replace Priyanka Chopra as the female lead—got pregnant. Farhan had to halt the film’s progress due to her changed circumstances. To add to that, Farhan got deeply immersed in his own acting schedule for the intense war film 120 Bahadur, where he plays Major Shaitan Singh. That film is scheduled to release on November 21, 2025.”

Now, with all hurdles cleared, Don 3 is finally ready to roll. Shooting begins in January 2026, with a targeted December 2026 theatrical release.

And here’s the most exciting part—the source hints at a major surprise, “There is a possibility that Priyanka Chopra may return to the Don franchise.”

Also Read: Farhan Akhtar confirms Ranveer Singh’s Don 3: “Don 3 will begin filming this year”

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Due to TREMENDOUS public demand, 2:00 am show of F1: The Movie in Eros IMAX Mumbai; 100+ shows of Jurassic World: Rebirth added on Saturday

The first quarter of the year hasn’t been great for Hollywood but since May, its films have been excelling at the ticket window. Last week’s F1: The Movie is rock-steady at the box office despite screen-sharing issues and competition from new releases. There’s an insane demand to watch the film in IMAX due to which its shows ran with excellent occupancy even on the weekdays in the 33 IMAX centres of India. Looking at this response, the management of Eros IMAX in Mumbai have decided to play a post-midnight show.

On Saturday and Sunday this week, a 2:05 am show of F1: The Movie was played in the South Mumbai standalone IMAX theatre. As per sources, the show was also played at the same time in the previous weekend. Despite the unearthly hour, the bookings have been great. When Bollywood Hungama had a look at the occupancy of the 2:05 am show of July 5 at 11:00 pm on July 5, more than 50% of the show was full and seats were filling fast.

On the other hand, Jurassic World: Rebirth, which released this week, had a great opening of Rs. 9.25 crores. Many in the trade were shocked to see that it didn’t get the desired number of shows despite decent advance sales and huge popularity of the franchise among both masses and classes.

Thankfully, the situation got corrected on Saturday. As per trade sources, more than a hundred shows of the dinosaur saga were added across the country. A trade expert told Bollywood Hungama, “The collections on Friday and word of mouth made it clear that Jurassic World: Rebirth will jump on Saturday. Accordingly, cinemas had no choice but to allot more showcasing to the film.” The film earned nearly Rs. 12.50-13 crores on its second day.

Jurassic World: Rebirth is distributed by Warner Bros, which also released F1: The Movie. Bollywood Hungama had reported last week how even for the Brad Pitt-starrer, the Hollywood studio had to fight with the multiplexes for fair showcasing.

Tuesday offer to continue

The high-ticket rates for F1: The Movie have come under the scanner. Many want to watch the film but at a reasonable price. This is also a reason why the 2:05 am show at Eros has attracted people. It is the cheapest IMAX show in the country with the Prime seats available for Rs. 299 while Classic seats are sold for just Rs. 199.

Usually, high-performing films don’t opt for Tuesday offers, a popular scheme under which tickets are sold for Rs. 99/149/199 for normal seats and Rs. 299 for special formats. But Warner opted for it for F1: The Movie. The trade source commented, “Warner could have avoided the offer but it seems like they wanted the audience to enjoy the film at affordable rates. As a result, its Tuesday footfalls were high, at par with the footfalls on the weekend.”

The trade source also said, “Normally, after the Tuesday offer, Wednesday collections see a major drop. But F1: The Movie collected the same amount, that is, around Rs. 3.50 crores, on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, a never-before-seen occurrence since the offer began earlier this year.”

The source also revealed, “This Tuesday, the offer will once again be available for F1: The Movie and also Jurassic World: Rebirth.”

All eyes are now on Superman, the third consecutive Hollywood biggie. And this one too is backed by Warner Bros. An industry insider commented, “Two Hindi films are also up for release on July 11. Once again, expect fights over shows, a fractured release on a Friday and a correction the next day. Ab toh aadat si hai humko aise jeene ki!”

Also Read: Brad Pitt on learning to drive Formula 1 cars for F1 The Movie, “When you first start, you’re making big jumps—gaining seconds. And as the months go by, you’re fighting for quarters of seconds”

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Madhya Pradesh HC orders fresh trial in Saif Ali Khan’s Rs 15,000 crores inheritance dispute

Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan and his family have suffered a significant legal setback after the Madhya Pradesh High Court set aside a 25-year-old order that upheld their claim to ancestral property worth an estimated Rs 15,000 crores. The court has now ordered a fresh trial in the decades-old inheritance dispute involving the former royal family of Bhopal.

The property in question traces back to the princely state of Bhopal and was inherited by Saif Ali Khan, his mother Sharmila Tagore, and his sisters Soha and Saba Ali Khan, following the death of Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, former Indian cricket captain and Nawab of Pataudi. Court Sets Aside 2000 Decree A Bhopal district court had ruled in 2000 that the Pataudi family was the rightful heirs to the estate, based on the succession of Saif’s grandmother, Sajida Sultan, the daughter of the last ruling Nawab of Bhopal, Hamidullah Khan. However, in a new development, Justice Sanjay Dwivedi of the Madhya Pradesh High Court overturned the trial court’s decision, citing reliance on a precedent that the Supreme Court has since overruled.

“I am of the opinion that the trial court, without considering other aspects of the matter, had dismissed the suits, that too relying upon the judgment which has already been overruled by the Supreme Court,” Justice Dwivedi stated in the order. “Thus, in my opinion, the impugned judgment and decree deserve to be and are hereby set aside.”

The High Court directed the trial court to re-examine the matter from scratch and permitted all parties to present fresh evidence in light of recent legal developments. The fresh trial is to be conducted expeditiously, ideally within one year. Background of the Dispute The legal battle stems from the inheritance of the personal property of Nawab Hamidullah Khan, the last ruling Nawab of Bhopal, who had three daughters: Abida, Sajida, and Rabia. Sajida Sultan, who married Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi, was declared the heir to the estate after her sister Abida migrated to Pakistan. The succession was formalised in 1962 when the Government of India issued a certificate naming Sajida as the sole inheritor.

Sajida’s son, Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, inherited the property, which was eventually passed down to Saif, Soha, and Saba. However, other heirs of the Nawab — including Begum Suraiya Rashid and Nawab Mehr Taj Sajida Sultan — challenged the inheritance, arguing that the partition of Nawab Hamidullah’s property was unfair and did not comply with Muslim Personal Law.

Their suit, initially dismissed in 2000, has now been revived by the High Court.

The order also referred to the 1949 Instrument of Accession through which the princely state of Bhopal merged with the Union of India. As per the agreement, the Nawab retained rights to personal properties, and succession was to follow the Bhopal Succession to the Throne Act, 1947.

Also Read: Saif Ali Khan and Akshay Kumar starrer upcoming thriller with Priyadarshan titled ‘Haiwaan’

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Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia D’Souza become brand ambassadors for Casagrand

Following their successful association with Pokémon GO, Bollywood’s beloved couple Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia D’Souza have now signed on as brand ambassadors for Casagrand, a leading real estate developer. The announcement marks another high-profile collaboration for the duo, known for their relatable charm and strong on-screen chemistry.

Commenting on the development, Diptakirti Chaudhuri, Chief Marketing Officer at Casagrand, said, “At Casagrand, every brand ambassador we associate with is an extension of our promise to deliver thoughtfully crafted homes that elevate lifestyles. For our Pune market debut, we have designed homes that offer 'much more' — more space, more connectivity, and more amenities — to the modern homebuyer.”

She further added, “Genelia and Riteish Deshmukh perfectly embody this narrative, as they bring a wonderful balance of aspiration and relatability to our target audience. Their chemistry is in full bloom in our new TVC, which beautifully captures the happy vibes of our homes that we aim to highlight.”

 

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As mentioned, this isn’t the first time the couple has signed on together for a brand. In October 2024, they were announced as brand ambassadors for Pokémon GO.

Genelia shared her excitement at the time, saying, “As a mom and a proud Indian, the 'Festival of Light' event is a beautiful blend of tradition and technology. It's incredible to see Pokémon GO celebrate Indian culture in such a fun and engaging way — especially with characters like Pikachu wearing a saree! Pokémon has always been special to me, and Pikachu is both my kids' favourite. Seeing it in a saree was a delightful experience. Being able to share that joy with my family and the world through such an innovative platform is truly exciting.”

Riteish echoed her sentiments, adding, “As someone who loves technology and gaming, being part of the Pokémon GO family feels like a natural fit. I’ve been playing the game since it launched in India in 2016, and now promoting it is truly thrilling. It encourages fun while keeping our cultural heritage alive in such an interactive way.”

Genelia is currently seen in Aamir Khan’s Sitaare Zameen Par, while Riteish was last seen in Housefull 5. He will next be seen in Dhamaal 4.

Also Read: Aamir Khan, Genelia Deshmukh, and Sitaare Zameen Par cast make special appearance as Special Olympics Bharat hosts screening of the film

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Aditya Dhar has an epic ‘Dhurandar’ birthday surprise for Ranveer Singh; actor remains in the dark about film’s first look

Filmmaker Aditya Dhar had something extraordinary planned for Ranveer Singh ahead of his birthday this year — and it’s not your typical cake-and-candles celebration. Aditya’s grand idea is to surprise his leading man with the first look of their highly anticipated film, Dhurandhar.

What was to make this surprise thrilling was that Ranveer Singh was not supposed to know about it. Aditya had been secretly preparing a special unit from the film to unveil as a birthday gift for the superstar. However, despite Dhar’s best efforts to keep it under wraps, word eventually reached Ranveer. When Ranveer confronted Aditya about the buzz, Aditya initially tried to dodge the question. But Ranveer’s curiosity didn’t allow the matter to rest. After relentless questioning, Aditya finally admitted the truth — but asked Ranveer to trust him and wait for the official first look reveal.

Sources close to the production reveal that Aditya Dhar has gone to great lengths to ensure that the surprise remains intact. Even though Ranveer has been part of the film’s journey and has seen the early rushes of Dhurandhar, the final electrifying first look unit has been kept strictly confidential. “Ranveer knows something special is coming, a true cinematic treat, but he hasn't seen thefinal cut,” an insider shared, teasing the magnitude of the surprise. “It's entirely Aditya's ingenious way of making this birthday not just memorable, but truly iconic for his superstar.”

The buzz around Dhurandhar has been building ever since the film was announced. Apart from Ranveer Singh in the lead, the film features a power-packed ensemble including Arjun Rampal, R Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt, and Akshaye Khanna. However, the names of the leading ladies have been kept tightly under wraps, adding another layer of intrigue.

In fact, several photos from the sets of Dhurandhar have gone viral over the past few months, further increasing fan anticipation. With its star-studded cast and a director known for delivering cinematic spectacles, this film is shaping up to be one of the most awaited releases.

All eyes are now on Ranveer’s birthday on July 6, when Aditya Dhar is expected to finally unveil the much-guarded first look. Fans are waiting to see whether the surprise will truly live up to the hype.

Also Read: Ranveer Singh and Sanjay Dutt set internet abuzz with leaked video from Aditya Dhar’s espionage drama

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Anurag Basu drops exciting update on Kartik Aaryan and Sreeleela starrer untitled romantic musical

Director Anurag Basu has finally shared a much-awaited update on his upcoming untitled film starring Kartik Aaryan and Sreeleela. While promoting his recently released film Metro In Dino, Basu spoke about the progress of his next project, which has already sparked curiosity among fans.

Speaking to News18 Showsha, Basu said, “Half of it is done, half is remaining. The shooting will begin very soon, and the film will be completed within a month. We’ll announce the title and release date soon. I’m just focused on wrapping it up well."

The film, which is reportedly a romantic musical in the style of the iconic Aashiqui films, marks the first collaboration between Kartik Aaryan and Sreeleela, with the latter making her much-anticipated Hindi film debut. The pairing of these two young stars has already generated excitement among fans, especially after the film’s announcement video dropped earlier this year. The video was backed by the hauntingly beautiful melody of the 90s chartbuster ‘Tu Hi Aashiqui Hai’, adding to the nostalgic appeal of the project.

While much about the storyline and other details are still under wraps, fans can expect an official title and release date announcement soon. With the project expected to wrap up quickly, all eyes are now on how Anurag Basu will craft this musical love story.

Meanwhile, Basu is busy promoting his latest film Metro In Dino, a spiritual sequel to his cult classic Life In A Metro. The film, which hit theatres on July 4, boasts a stellar ensemble cast including Sara Ali Khan, Aditya Roy Kapur, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Ali Fazal, Neena Gupta, Anupam Kher, Pankaj Tripathi, and Konkona Sen Sharma.

Metro In Dino explores new-age relationships in a fast-paced urban landscape, much like its predecessor, and fans are eager to see how Basu brings his signature storytelling style back to the big screen.

As the director balances two highly anticipated projects, his collaboration with Kartik and Sreeleela is shaping up to be one of the most exciting romantic musicals to watch out for.

Also Read: “Will always remember you”: Kartik Aaryan’s love letter to Gangtok

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SHOCKING: Did Coolie makers violate IMAX guidelines by using its logo in Aamir Khan’s poster?

Two days ago, the poster of Aamir Khan from the Rajinikanth-starrer Coolie was unveiled, and it received a rocking response. The poster also mentioned important information that the film will be available in the IMAX format. As expected, it led to jubilation among the fans of Coolie. But it left the trade and industry in disbelief. The reason? IMAX hasn’t approved the release of Coolie yet, as confirmed by inside sources to Bollywood Hungama.

A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “It is common knowledge that War 2 and Coolie are releasing on the same day, August 14, and the former has inked an exclusive deal with IMAX. As per this deal, no other Indian film will be played in the IMAX version in India and key properties across the world during that period. Hence, the IMAX mention is shocking because Coolie’s IMAX release hasn’t been approved by the IMAX Corporation. And yet, they have gone ahead and prominently displayed the IMAX logo on the posters.”

A producer, on condition of anonymity, also remarked, “Those who have worked with IMAX are aware that they are extremely particular about how the word ‘IMAX’ should be mentioned. They also instruct the makers that if IMAX is mentioned on the posters, then other formats can’t be mentioned. The makers of Coolie, however, have added D-Box and 4DX mention as well. That’s not all. IMAX is extremely persistent that one can either state ‘Experience it in IMAX’ or ‘Filmed for IMAX’. The makers of Coolie, meanwhile, have printed ‘Watch it in IMAX’, which also probably goes against the IMAX mandate. It remains to be seen how the IMAX head honchos react to this development.”

Why you might still get to watch Coolie in IMAX

A South-based trade source, however, said, “Now that Coolie makers have mentioned it, it makes it clear that their film will be released in IMAX. Or else, why would they mention it? Maybe, they are in talks already for it. But yes, before everything is locked, they shouldn’t have jumped the gun.”

He added, “Either the makers will convince IMAX to let Coolie release in the IMAX theatres. Or else, they’ll play the non-IMAX version of Coolie in the IMAX cinemas, especially in the Southern markets.”

The producer source, meanwhile, said, “But will Yash Raj Films allow that, especially when the deal for exclusive IMAX release of War 2 is in place? Hence, expect a lot of fireworks in the days to come.”

Besides Rajinikanth and Aamir Khan, Coolie also stars Shruti Haasan, Upendra, Sathyaraj and others. It is directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj. As for War 2, it features Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR and is helmed by Ayan Mukerji.

Also Read: Coolie surprise: Aamir Khan gets introduced as ‘Dahaa’ in Rajinikanth starrer action thriller

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The REAL Budget is Rs. 1600 CRORES! Ranbir Kapoor-Yash’s Ramayana becomes India’s MOST EXPENSIVE film

Ranbir Kapoor and Yash's epic face off in Ramayana is all set to take the centre stage all across the world from Diwali 2026. While the makers have showcased the announcement video, which has won appreciation and spiking even more excitement for the project, we have exclusively learnt that the Nitesh Tiwari directorial is the most expensive film of Indian Cinema

Reliable sources close to the producer, Namit Malhotra, have confirmed that Ramayana Franchise is being designed on a budget of Rs. 1600 crores, excluding print and publicity. "While Ramayana 1 is being made on a budget of Rs. 900 crore, the second part of Ramayana has a cost of Rs. 700 crore. The reason for the reduction is budget for part two is a result of a large investment in asset and world creation for part one, leaving just the action sequences for the second installment. The characters built and designed alongside the set pieces will continue to be a part of the second installment," a source shared with Bollywood Hungama.

The source further informed that Namit is not splitting the cost on parts one and two, but is treating it as an investment of Rs. 1600 crore on the Ramayana franchise. "Ramayana is the most ambitious film for the Malhotra Family, and they are treating it as a project of pride. The entire team is confident of recovering the investment and even making profits as the idea is to tap into the world audience, and to do so, it's important to deliver a global project, with spectacular visuals," the source told us further.

Ramayana features Ranbir Kapoor and Yash with Sai Pallavi and Sunny Deol. It is slated to release on Diwali 2026 and Diwali 2027. Also Read: Alia Bhatt reacts to Ranbir Kapoor’s Lord Ram look in Ramayana: “This feels like the start of something unforgettable”

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EXCLUSIVE: Adivi Sesh on Dacoit’s box office clash with YRF’s Alpha, “I’ve never been too shy when it comes to a box office clash”

Adivi Sesh’s Telugu and Hindi bilingual romantic action drama Dacoit: A Love Story is all set to release on Christmas this year. The makers announced the film’s release date through an interesting first glimpse video at the end of May. The response to it turned out to be positive as it made Adivi’s fans more curious about the film.

But the makers of Dacoit choosing December 25 as the release date also means that the film will be clashing at the box office with Yash Raj Films’ Alpha, which is a part of the YRF Spy Universe. The action drama stars Alia Bhatt, Sharvari and Bobby Deol.

In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, Adivi Sesh was asked about his thoughts on the clash. He said, “I’ve never been one to be too shy when it comes to a clash. My debut Hindi film, Major was released against Akshay Kumar’s Samrat Prithviraj and Kamal (Haasan) sir’s Vikram.” Interestingly, Samrat Prithviraj was also produced by YRF.

Pointing out how clashes are inevitable, Adivi added, “I don’t think anyone intends to clash against a film on purpose. So many permutations and combinations come into play when deciding on a release date. I’ve got to keep my South Indian base in mind for Dacoit as well because it’s being shot both in Hindi and Telugu. At the end of the day, a good film will hopefully find its audience if you make it well and promote it right.”

Theatrical business hasn’t been great since last year. It is believed that too much penetration of OTT platforms is one of the reasons behind this. Sharing his thoughts on the same, Adivi said, “My greatest theatrical successes have come in the midst of the OTT boom. So what does that tell you? It is ultimately what you believe in. Do you have a story worth telling for the big screen? Then tell it.”

Directed by Shaneil Deo, Dacoit also stars Mrunal Thakur, Anurag Kashyap, Prakash Raj and Atul Kulkarni.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Adivi Sesh on 3-year gap before the release of Dacoit, “I’d rather be seen in something good than something that just fills the time”

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Aparshakti Khurana makes his Tamil debut with sci-fi crime thriller ROOT, starring alongside Gautham Karthik

Aparshakti Khurana is set to make his debut in Tamil cinema with the sci-fi crime thriller ROOT – Running Out of Time. Known for his work as an actor, singer, and host, Aparshakti recently received appreciation for his role in Stree 2. His upcoming venture marks his entry into South Indian films, drawing attention from both audiences and the industry.

In 'ROOT – Running Out of Time', Aparshakti Khurana will be seen sharing the screen with Gautham Karthik, an actor renowned for his choice of unique, performance-driven roles in films like Devarattam and Vai Raja Vai. The film is being shot in Chennai.

 

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Speaking about his Tamil debut, Aparshakti Khurana expressed his excitement, “I am absolutely thrilled to be making my debut in Tamil cinema with 'ROOT – Running Out of Time'. It's a challenging and unique script, and I'm excited to explore this new territory. The opportunity to work with such a talented team and to connect with a new audience is something I'm truly looking forward to.”

The film is backed by Verus Productions and directed by Sooriyaprathap S, who earlier worked on Naalaiya Iyakkunar – Season 1 and served as Associate Director on the Rajinikanth-starrer Kochadaiiyaan. ROOT aims to combine elements of science fiction, crime, and emotional storytelling in a new cinematic format.

Also Read : Aparshakti Khurana drops soulful new single ‘Lafzaan’, a year after ‘Zaroor’

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Arkade developers acquires Filmistan studios for Rs. 183 crores, plans Rs.3,000 crores luxury project in Goregaon

On July 3, Mumbai-based listed real estate firm Arkade Developers Limited announced that it has signed a binding agreement to acquire 100% stake in Filmistan Pvt Ltd for Rs. 183 crore. The developer intends to launch a luxury apartment project on the site, with a projected gross development value of Rs. 3,000 crores.

The company stated that this acquisition will allow Arkade Developers to develop the iconic 4-acre land parcel located on SV Road in Goregaon West, widely recognized as ‘Filmistan Studios.’

The company mentioned that the project is tentatively planned to launch in 2026 and will be an ultra-luxury residential development. It will offer spacious 3, 4, and 5 BHK apartments, along with exclusive penthouses, spread across two impressive high-rise towers of 50 storeys each. With an estimated Gross Development Value (GDV) of Rs. 3,000 crores, the project is set to become a landmark in premium housing in Western Mumbai.

Mumbai-based listed developer Arkade Developers Ltd announced on July 3 that it has signed a binding agreement to acquire 100% stake in Filmistan Pvt Ltd for Rs. 183 crores. This acquisition will allow Arkade to develop the iconic 4-acre land on SV Road, Goregaon West, commonly known as Filmistan Studios.

The developer intends to launch an ultra-luxury residential project on the site in 2026, offering spacious 3, 4, and 5 BHK apartments along with exclusive penthouses spread across two 50-storey towers. With an expected Gross Development Value (GDV) of Rs. 3,000 crores, the project is poised to become a premium housing landmark in Western Mumbai.

According to the company, Goregaon has quickly evolved into one of Mumbai’s most promising and strategically located residential areas. Thanks to its excellent connectivity—with close access to the Western Express Highway, metro lines, and major arterial roads—the suburb provides easy access to key commercial centres like Mindspace, BKC, Goregaon, Andheri, and more.

Beyond its connectivity, Goregaon offers a strong social infrastructure that includes well-known schools, hospitals, shopping centres, malls, entertainment venues, and large green spaces such as Aarey Forest.

Local brokers noted that the average price per square foot for an apartment in Goregaon West ranges from Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 40,000, varying based on several factors.

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After Naagzilla with Kartik Aaryan, Karan Johar sets up another creature universe with Rajkummar Rao

Rajkummar Rao is on a roll, signing films left right and centre after the success of Stree 2. While Maalik is all set to release on July 12, we have exclusively learnt that Rajkummar Rao has signed a one of its kind creature film for Karan Johar to be directed by Sandeep Modi.

Reliable sources confirm that the film will go on floors towards the end of 2025, with a start-to-finish schedule. "Rajkummar Rao has signed on for Karan Johar's next with director Sandeep Modi. It's a creature-based thriller, to be mounted on a big scale and the makers are looking to create a franchise out of the same," a source shared with Bollywood Hungama.

The source further informed us that the film will go on floors around November 2025, and the director, Sandeep Modi, has already begun pre-production. “Rajkummar Rao has signed the film for an agreed sum of Rs. 12 crores, which is his biggest pay cheque to date. He is excited to partner with Karan Johar on the project,” the source added.

Interestingly, this is the second creature film in the making at Dharma after Kartik Aaryan led Nagzilla. Both the films are scheduled to go on floors in the second half of 2025 for a 2026 release.

Also Read: Anil Kapoor or Bobby Deol to play villain in Naagzilla with Kartik Aaryan

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Deepika Padukone becomes first Indian to join Hollywood Walk of Fame 2026 list

Deepika Padukone continues to represent India on the global stage with another significant recognition. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce has announced that Padukone will be honoured with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame as part of the Class of 2026 in the Motion Pictures category. The announcement, made via a live-stream, marks a proud moment as she becomes the only Indian selected for this honour in the upcoming class. She joins a distinguished list that includes Emily Blunt, Timothée Chalamet, Rami Malek, Rachel McAdams, Stanley Tucci, Demi Moore, and others. Known for her impactful performances and growing international presence, this recognition adds to Padukone’s expanding global profile.

Among several internationally acclaimed names, Deepika Padukone has established a unique presence across both the Indian film industry and Hollywood. While many global personalities have been inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Padukone stands out as the only Indian to receive this honour in the upcoming class. This recognition not only highlights her individual achievements but also underscores India's growing footprint in the global entertainment landscape.

Deepika has consistently brought glory to the nation on many fronts. Previously, she was named one of the 100 most influential people in the world by TIME in 2018 and was also a recipient of the TIME100 Impact Award. The global figure further made history by unveiling the FIFA World Cup trophy at the final match in Qatar.

Among other notable achievements, as written in the golden pages of history, she became the first ever Indian to be signed by global luxury fashion houses for Louis Vuitton and Cartier, she set the stage for the country’s growing influence globally and has further paved the way for other Indian celebrity faces to join the wave in subsequent years.

Beyond international accolades, Deepika continues to dominate the entertainment world with major projects in her lineup. With her continued hold over box office with massive successes, she remains an unstoppable force in Indian cinema and will be seen on the bog screen next in Atlee’s directorial.

Also Read : Aamir Khan reveals Deepika Padukone, Alia Bhatt, and Shraddha Kapoor turned down the role later played by Fatima Sana Shaikh in Thugs of Hindostan

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Aamir Khan says cricketer Javed Miandad ruined his wedding day with iconic last-ball six: “I said Javed bhai aapne theek nahi kiya”

In a recent heartwarming interview with The Lallantop, Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan opened up about a memorable and unexpected twist on his wedding day. It wasn’t family drama or logistical chaos—but a cricket ball—that cast a shadow over what was supposed to be one of the happiest days of his life.

On April 18, 1986, 21-year-old Aamir and his neighbour-turned-love-interest Reena Dutta secretly married in a court ceremony, defying familial opposition. Their strategy? Keep it under wraps—and it worked. “Mujhe laga sab puchenge kaha the itni der,” Aamir confessed, admitting he and Reena feared their families would question their late return home.

To their surprise, no one noticed—they were too glued to a high-stakes India‑Pakistan cricket match being broadcast that day. Aamir said, “It was India-Pakistan match day. The same match where Javed Miandad hit a six on the last ball. We were winning that match so nobody cared to ask us about our absence for so long. I too joined them and was watching cricket, however, Javed’s six ruined it all.”

Aamir candidly recounted how even he, swept up in the excitement, found his joy shattered. “Once I happened to meet him on the flight when I told him, ‘Javed bhai aapne theek nahi kiya. Aapne meri shadi barbaad kardi .He was like, ‘Kaise?’ I said, Usi din aapne chakka mara tha. Depression mein chala gaya tha mai.”

That day marked not only a historic sporting moment, but also a poignant personal one. It remains a beloved anecdote in Aamir’s life—a reminder of how sport and emotion intertwine in the subcontinent. Today, Aamir and Reena maintain mutual respect as co-parents to their children, Junaid and Ira, even though they parted ways in 2002 after 16 years of marriage.

Also Read : EXCLUSIVE: RS Prasanna on getting Aamir Khan on board for Sitaare Zameen Par: “I had only one person in mind for this story, Aamir Khan”

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YRF to keep Hrithik Roshan & Jr NTR away from each other for War 2 promotions!

Yash Raj Films have always deployed unique strategies to spike audience interest while promoting the YRF Spy Universe movies. We have learnt that since War 2 will see the first ever on-screen moment of Hrithik Roshan & Jr NTR coming together, YRF will keep them away from each other during promotions so that the experience of them ruthlessly fighting each other is served to the maximum to audience.

“Hrithik & Jr NTR will be promoting War 2 separately and all plans have been made keeping in mind that they would never share the stage together, never be in any promotional video together pre-release and never seen with each other. Hrithik and Jr NTR coming together is a once in a lifetime cinematic moment in Indian cinema and there will be a bloody carnage on the big screen. YRF is clear that the audience should first experience this rivalry before they see the two promote with camaraderie. They want to deliver the best movie-watching experience to people by preserving the conflict which is the unique selling point of the film,” informed a senior trade source.

“The YRF Spy Universe has always deployed very interesting strategies to build its film and the promise of entertainment. They were the first to resort to a no interview before release policy during promotions of spyverse films so that the actors don’t divulge details from the script during such interactions. In the first War, Hrithik & Tiger first came face to face with each other during the success bash of the film, in Pathaan they recorded capsules with Shah Rukh Khan to deploy on social media to reveal nuggets of Pathaan and kept hyping the buzz on the film without SRK doing any events. Pathaan went on to became an all-time blockbuster. For Tiger Zinda Hai, the film’s campaign celebrated how the Tiger franchise set up the YRF Spy Universe and fellow agents came into the promotional campaign much to people’s surprise and awe!” the source added.

War 2 is buzzing as the most-awaited film of 2025. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Ayan Mukerji, War 2 will also see the big IMAX release when it arrives at the big screen on August 14, 2025 worldwide. War 2 has been produced by Aditya Chopra and Kiara Advani joins the YRF Spy Universe in her most lethal avatar to date.

Also Read: Ayan Mukerji calls directing War 2 “relishing opportunity”; speaks on working with “huge” actors Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR

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Amber Cinema Jamnagar shuts down; was the ONLY theatre in Gujarat to screen Aamir Khan’s Fanaa and a RARE cinema hall to screen Salman Khan’s Radhe

The single screen cinema halls have a charm but are also facing a tough time surviving in the times we are living in. Hence, it's not uncommon to hear about such theatres shutting every now and then. The latest theatre to down its shutters is Amber Cinema of Jamanagar. It was also one of the oldest running theatres in Gujarat.

As per reports, Amber Cinema was inaugurated in 1972 and the first film to play there was the Dharmendra and Hema Malini-starrer Raja Jani. The theatre soon became popular and an indispensable part of the lives of the movie buffs of the town. The reports stated that it became difficult for the management to run a single screen in today’s times. Hence, with a heavy heart, it ceased operations on Friday, June 27. A notice board has been put up inside the premises that states ‘The theatre will remain closed from today’.

Fanaa connection In 2006, Amber Cinema made news nationwide as it screened the Aamir Khan-Kajol starrer Fanaa, the only film in Gujarat to do so. The romantic thriller was banned in the state after Aamir Khan participated in a protest led by environmentalist Medha Patkar against the Narmada Dam. Aamir’s effigies were burned across the state and realizing that there can be law and order problems and even vandalism, theatres across Gujarat decided not to play Fanaa.

The matter reached the Supreme Court which made it clear that the Gujarat government was duty-bound to provide security for multiplex owners if they sought police protection. Accordingly, on June 6, that is on the 12th day of Fanaa’s release, Amber Cinema decided to release the Yash Raj Films saga. From the archives, we have learned that on the first day, the film recorded only 30% occupancy, possibly due to fear of protests and violence. But once the public realized that there was no danger, the shows ran with full occupancy. It was said that people flocked from outside Jamnagar as well to catch the film.

On June 11, however, a man set himself on fire in the washroom of Amber Cinema to protest the screening of Fanaa. It re-ignited the protests. On June 12, the Amber Cinema decided to discontinue the film. By then, nearly 13,000 people had watched Fanaa.

Meanwhile, Pravin Joshi, the man who attempted self-immolation in Amber, passed away after battling for life in a hospital for 9 days.

Radhe connection Amber Cinema was one of the three theatres in Gujarat to play Radhe – Your Most Wanted Bhai (2021). It was released in May that year, during the height of the second wave of COVID-19, when cinemas were shut. On June 27, when the Gujarat government allowed theatres to resume operations, the management of the film released the Salman Khan-starrer. The film was available on OTT and moreover, the word of mouth was poor to average. Yet, the film managed to get around 20-90 admissions a day, which was a feat. The film ran there for nearly 20 days.

RIP single screen culture in Jamnagar With Amber shutting down, no single-screen cinema is now in operation in Jamnagar. At one point, the Gujarat town had nearly 7 theatres like Deepak, Anupam, Jayshree, Galaxy, etc. At present, three theatres, all multiplexes, are running operations - Inox Crystal Mall, Mehul Cinemas and PVR Utsav JCR Entertainment. The first two are in the city while the last one is located on the outskirts and also consists of a Drive-In theatre.

Also Read: Aamir Khan hosts first success party for Sitaare Zameen Par cast, watch

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EXCLUSIVE: Suneel Darshan’s Andaaz 2 to release in cinemas on August 1; makers drop four youthful posters of the musical entertainer

Bollywood Hungama has been at the forefront in giving news about Andaaz 2 ever since its launch. In November 2023, we announced that it went on the floors. A month later, we informed readers that it’ll launch Aayush Kumar and Akaisha and also star Natasha Fernandez. Earlier this year, producer-director Suneel Darshan unveiled the teaser and exciting posters of the film along with some of the songs. And now, the makers have locked the release date of the film.

Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learned that Andaaz 2 will arrive in cinemas on August 1, 2025. A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “The makers realized that it’s an ideal date for the film considering that there won’t be a significant release on August 8 since it's the pre-Independence week. Hence, Andaaz 2 will get a nice two-week window to prove its worth at the ticket window.”

On this significant occasion of the release date announcement, Andaaz 2 makers also launched four cool posters, again exclusively with Bollywood Hungama. Three posters belong to the leading actors while one poster features all three of them together.

In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama in March 2024, director Suneel Darshan said, “Honestly, there was no calculation behind making Andaaz 2. When I wrote the script, I realized that Andaaz 2 is a befitting title. It's not the same story but somewhere, the storytelling was in the same zone and also, it was a musical and a love triangle just like Andaaz (2003) and much more. That’s how we ended up calling it Andaaz 2.”

In the same interview, Suneel Darshan revealed that he had initially planned to consider Aayush for the role of the lead hero’s friend but later changed his mind. On this, Aayush stated, “I came to meet him, hoping that I would be given some important role in the film. When Suneel sir told me (about the change in plan), I felt very fortunate.”

The music is composed by Nadeem and it is expected to be one of the USPs of the film. Suneel Darshan revealed, “We took our time constructing the music. It was very important to the structure of the film. Also, that era was of Kumar Sanu, Udit Narayan and Alka Yagnik. They worked in all of our films. Sonu Nigam had just come in at that time. But as two decades have passed since then, we have signed new and formidable singers. I retained Shaan as he was appropriate for one of the songs. Neeraj Shridhar has sung one song. From the younger lot, we have Javed Ali, Palak Mucchal, Asees Kaur, Amit Mishra, Mohd Irfan and Shadab Faridi. In short, there are 9 singers.”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Meet Andaaz 2 actor Aayush Kumar, the Gurgaon boy who WALKED OUT of his MBA exam to chase his Bollywood dream: “I knew all the answers. Yet, I didn’t write them. I just walked off”

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Dhanush wraps up Aanand L Rai’s Tere Ishk Mein with Kriti Sanon

Actor Dhanush has officially wrapped up the shoot for Aanand L Rai's Tere Ishk Mein, co-starring Kriti Sanon. He shared the update on social media with a striking image of two bloodied hands clasped together, captioned, “And it’s a wrap,” followed by a red heart emoji.

A spiritual successor to the world of Raanjhanaa, the sequel Tere Ishk Mein explores deeper layers of unrequited love, longing, and emotional turmoil.

Tere Ishk Mein also brings back the acclaimed Raanjhanaa team—director Aanand L Rai, actor Dhanush, and Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman. The trio last worked together on the 2021 romantic fantasy Atrangi Re.

 

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The drama has been generating significant buzz since the release of its teaser, which featured a striking scene of Dhanush setting a wall ablaze, accompanied by the words, “From the world of Raanjhanaa.” In the background, a powerful voiceover could be heard saying, “Pichli baar to Kundan tha, maan gaya, par iss bar Shankar ko kaise rokoge?” (Last time it was Kundan, he accepted it, but how will you stop Shankar this time?).

Both characters hint at a turbulent love saga between two individuals bound by destiny. Presented by Gulshan Kumar, T-Series, and Colour Yellow, Tere Ishk Mein is jointly produced by Aanand L Rai, Himanshu Sharma, Bhushan Kumar, and Krishan Kumar.

The screenplay for the highly anticipated drama has been crafted by Himanshu Sharma in collaboration with Neeraj Yadav. Written by Himanshu Sharma, the film will feature a musical score by the legendary A.R. Rahman, with lyrics penned by Irshad Kamil. Tere Ishk Mein is set to release worldwide in both Hindi and Tamil on November 28 this year.

Also Read : Raanjhanaa fan screening: An emotional Dhanush reveals, “Aanand L Rai didn’t have the budget for hiring me; he invested his own money…I was not scared during my first film. When I was written off, I was not scared but was scared for this film”

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Firoz Nadiadwala opens up about the return of Paresh Rawal to Hera Pheri 3, credits Sajid Nadiadwala; says, “The family is now together”

The Hera Pheri franchise is back on track with its much-awaited third installment, and fans can finally rejoice as Paresh Rawal, who famously plays Babu Bhaiyya, has officially returned to Hera Pheri 3 after a long period of uncertainty and legal complexities. Producer Firoz Nadiadwala confirmed that the Hera Pheri family is back together, crediting his brother Sajid Nadiadwala and filmmaker Ahmed Khan for playing instrumental roles in resolving the issues.

In an exclusive conversation with Pinkvilla, Firoz said, “With love, respect, and kind guidance of my brother Sajid Nadiadwala, and also Mr. Ahmed Khan, Hera Pheri family is back together. My brother, Sajid put in a lot of personal time and efforts, over several days to resolve the matter. We have a bond of over 50 years".

He further added, “Ahmed too put in a lot of personal efforts. So it is with the love and guidance of Sajid and Ahmed, that everything is now productive and positive.” Firoz also acknowledged Akshay Kumar’s role in ensuring the film’s progress, stating, “We also have Akshay ji’s support. We both have shared a very good bond since 1996. He was very kind, loving, and affectionate in the entire process of sorting the issues.”

Firoz Nadiadwala emphasized the collective effort behind reuniting the original team, adding, “Priyan ji, Paresh ji and Suniel ji too were very supportive. We are looking for a good happy movie now. This will be one more entertainer in the family franchise of Hera Pheri. We are all going to work very hard. The family is now together.”

For those unaware, Paresh Rawal had earlier revealed to Bollywood Hungama that he had decided to quit Hera Pheri 3, though he did not publicly specify the reason. Reports of legal notices surrounding his exit soon surfaced. However, the recent confirmation of his return has sparked excitement among fans eager to see the iconic trio—Paresh Rawal, Akshay Kumar, and Suniel Shetty—reprise their beloved roles as Babu Bhaiyya, Raju, and Shyam.

With the Hera Pheri family now reunited, the film promises to deliver another memorable addition to the popular comedy franchise.

Also Read: Paresh Rawal explains why watching films on OTT can be TIRESOME: “You wonder, ‘Har picture mein gun hai? Har picture mein drug hai'”; praises Laapataa Ladies: “It was similar to Ghunghat Ke Pat Khol but at least it was different”

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CONFIRMED: First glimpse of Ranbir Kapoor-Sai Pallavi-Yash starrer Ramayana to be FINALLY unveiled on July 3

One of the most or arguably the most awaited films of Indian cinema, Ramayana, is more than a year away from release. However, the excitement is tremendous for it as it will tell a story that resonates deeply with Indians. Moreover, its casting has also grabbed eyeballs and further enhanced curiosity. Since a long time, there have been reports that the teaser will be released. Bollywood Hungama has learned that the unveiling of the promo is finally happening in just a few days.

The announcement promo will be launched with great fanfare on Thursday, July 3, at a multiplex in central Mumbai. As per the message sent by the publicity team to the media, the makers plan to exclusively unveil ‘Ramayana: The Introduction, the first official glimpse into the world of Namit Malhotra’s Ramayana, a landmark cinematic event that sets the stage for one of the biggest films ever made’. However, there has been no information on whether the team and cast of the film will be present at this significant event.

There were speculations that the first glimpse of Ramayana will be unveiled at WAVES 2025, which was held between May 1-4, 2025. On May 5, a 2-minute 36-minute second-long title announcement video of the film was passed by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) with a ‘U’ certificate. Then, on June 23, a 3-minute video was certified by the CBFC and it was also awarded a ‘U’ certificate.

Ramayana stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman and KGF star Yash as Ravana. It is directed by Nitesh Tiwari of Dangal and Chhichhore fame.

At WAVES, Namit Malhotra of Prime Focus revealed that they attempt to take Ramayana to the farthest corners of the world using AI. He said, “We want to make it feel local to the world. With the use of some technology, we are attempting to localize the film in languages with performances. It means it should play in English with lip-sync; without subtitles or dubbed versions. In Spain, it should be in Spanish and in Japan, it should be in Japanese. This is possible because of technology.”

The first part of Ramayana releases in cinemas on Diwali 2026 while the second part will be out on Diwali 2027.

Also Read: Ranbir Kapoor and Yash won’t share much screen time together in Ramayana, here’s why

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Sarzameen first look out: Kajol, Prithviraj Sukumaran, and Ibrahim Ali Khan starrer to stream on JioHotstar from July 25, watch

In a time of rising threats, a soldier must choose between the country he swore to protect… and the family he loves. Sarzameen, premiering July 25 exclusively on JioHotstar, is a powerful and emotionally charged thriller that delves into the quiet conflicts that rage behind the frontlines where the cost of duty is not just sacrifice, but sometimes, suspicion. Set against the backdrop of an increasingly volatile Kashmir, the film follows Vijay Menon (Prithviraj Sukumaran), a decorated army officer known for his unshakeable sense of duty and personal sacrifice.

As Meera (Kajol), a strong mother and wife, fights to hold the family together, Harman (Ibrahim Ali Khan) brings a raw, simmering intensity to the role of a young man caught between shadowed memories and unsettling truths. Take your seat for a gripping journey of loyalty, truth, and sacrifice — Sarzameen streams on JioHotstar from July 25, 2025.

Alok Jain, JioStar, said, “Sarzameen is deeply relevant to the times we live in. It captures the emotional complexity of today’s world with honesty and heart. As part of our ongoing commitment to bringing storytelling that is rooted and meaningfully crafted, we’re proud to present Sarzameen, created in collaboration with Dharma. It’s a film that truly reflects that vision.”

Karan Johar, Producer, said, “Sarzameen is a deeply emotional story about duty, family, and the choices that define us. It’s not just a thriller, it’s a personal and powerful journey that speaks to the times we live in. With honesty and heart, it explores what it means to stay true to your values when everything around you is tested. We’re delighted to once again collaborate with JioHotstar to bring this story to audiences across the country, it’s a partnership that continues to support and celebrate meaningful storytelling.”

Apoorva Mehta, Producer, added, “At Dharma, we believe in telling stories that connect emotionally and leave a lasting impact. Sarzameen is one such film; it has both scale and heart. Kayoze has handled the story with great sensitivity, and the performances by Prithviraj, Kajol, and Ibrahim are powerful and moving. We’re proud to partner with JioHotstar to bring this film to audiences across India who enjoy meaningful and engaging cinema”.

Kayoze Irani, making his feature directorial debut with Sarzameen said, “Sarzameen will always hold a special place in my heart, not just because it marks my first feature film as a director, but because it gave me the chance to tell a story that is both deeply intimate and profoundly intense. I’m incredibly thankful to Karan, Apoorva, and the entire Dharma family for placing their trust in me. Working with phenomenal artists like Prithviraj Sir, Kajol Ma’am, and Ibrahim, each of whom brought such emotional depth and honesty to their performances, has been nothing short of a privilege. And I couldn’t have asked for a more committed partner than JioHotstar to take this story to audiences across the country. The emotional battlefield in Sarzameen is just as powerful and consuming as the one unfolding on the frontlines.”

Also Read: Ibrahim Ali Khan on his first day on Sarzameen set, “It was nerve-wracking”

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Unapologetic and Unstoppable: Hungama OTT unleashes its latest crime drama Badass Begum

Hungama OTT, one of India’s leading digital entertainment platforms, launched its riveting new original series, Badass Begum, on 26th June 2025. Anchored in a world of power, deception, and dangerous ambition, this crime drama offers an unflinching look at a woman who defied her origins to become a force within Mumbai’s underworld. The series boasts a compelling cast featuring Divyaa Agarwal, Ankit Gera, and Akkshay Dogra in pivotal roles.

Set in the backdrop of Mumbai’s criminal underbelly, Badass Begum unravels the layered and often conflicting legacy of Urvashi Raje—a woman whose name still stirs admiration, fear, and curiosity. Was she pushed into a life of crime by circumstances and the lure of comfort? Or did she rise through the ranks with calculated intent, turning every challenge into a stepping stone? More than just a gangster, she ruled her world like a queen amidst chaos, leaving behind a story that’s as haunting as it is unforgettable.

Speaking about the launch, Siddhartha Roy, CEO of Hungama Digital Media, said, “We’re committed to bringing stories that feel real, rooted and relevant. Badass Begum is a bold crime drama set in the 1980s — driven by strong characters and an authentic narrative. It’s part of a larger effort to offer diverse storytelling that connects with viewers across generations.”

Divyaa Agarwal, who takes on the role of Urvashi Raje, shared, “Urvashi Raje is unlike any character I’ve played before. She’s unapologetic, vulnerable, and relentlessly driven. She is not your typical gangster, and that’s what makes her incredibly fascinating. Badass Begum challenged me emotionally and creatively, and I can’t wait for audiences to experience her journey.”

Reflecting on his role, Akkshay Dogra added, “What drew me to the project was its refusal to stick to one side of the story. It’s not just about crime, it’s about the people behind those choices. Portraying this character has been a creatively fulfilling experience. He reminded me of the iconic anti-heroes we grew up watching — unapologetically stylish, intense, and magnetic. I’m excited for the audience to step into this world and experience the story in all its layers and complexity.”

Speaking about the series and his role, Ankit Gera said, “The world of Badass Begum is gritty, raw, and incredibly real. Every character has a backstory, and every decision has weight. My character operates in that grey space, caught between loyalty, ambition, and personal survival. The writing pulls you in, and being a part of this project gave me the chance to explore complex dynamics and intense emotions.”

With its powerful performances, layered storytelling, and a fearless female lead at its core, the show promises to be a gripping addition to Hungama OTT’s growing slate of original content. Witness the making of a legend who challenged every rule—on her own terms as Badass Begum is available exclusively on Hungama OTT and across partner platforms including Tata Play Binge, Watcho, BSNL, PlayboxTV, RailWire Broadband, Airtel Xstream Play, and Dor TV.

Also Read: Hungama OTT marks new chapter with rebranding and unveiling of 24-show slate at exclusive success party

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Subhash Ghai teases Riteish Deshmukh’s return in female avatar: “She is our next heroine”

Riteish Deshmukh’s portrayal of Sania in Apna Sapna Money Money, where he cross-dressed and adopted the persona of a woman, remains one of his most iconic comic roles. And now, it seems the actor is all set to revisit this memorable character in an upcoming film backed by veteran filmmaker Subhash Ghai.

On June 30, Ghai took to his social media handle to share a still of Riteish in his female avatar from the 2006 comedy. Alongside the image, he wrote, “She is our next heroine in our forthcoming film under Mukta Arts.” He further described him as “a classic beauty.” While the filmmaker has not disclosed additional details about the project, the post has already generated excitement among fans.

It’s worth noting that Apna Sapna Money Money isn’t the only film in which Riteish has played a female character. He also took on similar disguises in Humshakals, a Sajid Khan directorial co-starring Saif Ali Khan and Ram Kapoor.

SHE IS OUR NEXT HEROINE IN OUR FORTHCOMING FILM UNDER MUKTA ARTS ???? A Classic beauty ???? Can u guess the name of this BEAUTIFUL GIRL ? Please do write ????@muktaartsltd @muktaa2cinemas @whistling_woods pic.twitter.com/atNHlJSxJD — Subhash Ghai (@SubhashGhai1) June 30, 2025

For now, fans will have to wait for more updates, but the prospect of seeing Riteish return to his beloved comic timing and cross-dressing antics has certainly created a buzz.

On the professional front, Riteish was last seen in Raid 2, where he played the antagonist opposite Ajay Devgn. He also appeared in the fifth installment of the Housefull franchise. His upcoming slate includes several exciting projects, including Masti 4.

Additionally, Riteish is gearing up to direct his second film, Raja Shivaji, produced by Jio Studios and Mumbai Film Company. The historical action drama is slated for release on May 1, 2026, and will be released in six languages: Marathi, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam.

Also Read: Ajay Devgn and Riteish Deshmukh starrer Raid 2 to premiere on Netflix on June 26

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Ibrahim Ali Khan and Rasha Thadani to headline coming-of-age romantic film: Report

Despite their debut projects receiving lukewarm responses, star kids Rasha Thadani and Ibrahim Ali Khan continue to enjoy significant popularity on social media. Now, there’s an exciting update for their fans—if reports are to be believed, the two are all set to share screen space for the first time in an upcoming film.

According to a report by Mid-Day, a source close to the production revealed, “Ibrahim and Rasha have been doing reading sessions and workshops. The makers were clear that they didn’t want just a glamorous pair, but two actors who could tap into the awkward, exhilarating energy of first love. Rasha and Ibrahim clicked from their very first meeting.” The source further added, “While he debuted with a rom-com, Ibrahim will be seen in intense roles in Sarzameen and Diler, the latter featuring him as a marathoner. After those two outings, this film—with its coming-of-age arc—will showcase a softer and more relatable side of him.”

If confirmed, this project would mark Ibrahim’s second foray into the romantic genre. His debut film Naadanaiyaan, which was released directly on Netflix, was a romantic comedy. However, his performance received mixed to negative feedback, with critics pointing out issues with his expressions, dialogue delivery, and dubbing.

On the other hand, Rasha made her debut in the theatrical release Azaad, which also introduced Ajay Devgn’s nephew, Aaman Devgn. While the film didn’t fare well at the box office, Rasha’s performance was appreciated by audiences.

It will certainly be interesting to see Rasha and Ibrahim come together for a romantic drama. As of now, there has been no official confirmation or denial from the actors or the makers. Fans will have to wait for an official announcement.

Also Read: Ibrahim Ali Khan misses Sara Ali Khan in London, pens adorable poem in response to her post; watch

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Deepak Kumar Mishra DENIES exit from Vvan over creative difference with Sidharth Malhotra: “We are jamming well and working hard on the film”

On June 28, reports surfaced claiming that director Deepak Kumar Mishra had been ousted from Vvan due to creative differences with Sidharth Malhotra. However, those reports turned out to be unfounded. In a conversation with Mumbai Mirror, the director set the record straight, confirming that he remains very much a part of the project.

For those unfamiliar, Vvan marks The Viral Fever’s (TVF) first big-screen venture and is being jointly produced by Balaji Telefilms. The film also stars Tamannaah Bhatia in a leading role.

 

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Addressing the rumours, Deepak told the publication, “I don’t have any such information. Nothing has happened. This is out of the blue. I just want to state that nothing has happened. Sidharth and I are very strong. We are jamming so well and working hard on the film. It is 100% false.”

The speculation originated from a report by PeepingMoon, which claimed that Deepak and Sidharth were at odds over the film’s creative direction, leading to mounting tensions during pre-production. The report went on to suggest that the production house had brought in a new director. However, after Deepak publicly denied the claims, the publication deleted the article.

With the first schedule completed in June and the second slated to begin in August, preparations for Vvan are progressing smoothly. This update has only added to the growing excitement around the film’s release.

 

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While Deepak recently earned acclaim for the fourth season of Amazon Prime Video’s popular series Panchayat, Sidharth has just wrapped filming for Param Sundari, a Maddock Films-backed romantic comedy co-starring Janhvi Kapoor.

Also Read: Kriti Sanon cheers on the teaser of Param Sundari starring Sidharth Malhotra and Janhvi Kapoor

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EXCLUSIVE: Makers of Maa upset with distributor due to release strategy and distribution of shows of the Kajol-starrer

The latest release, Maa, has managed to put up impressive numbers in its first two days, thanks to the casting of Kajol, the horror genre, and positive word of mouth. However, the makers are unhappy with the release strategy and distribution of the film.

A source close to the film told Bollywood Hungama, “Maa has released in around 1500 screens and ideally, a film like this should have got a screen count of around 2000. After all, it has the association of Ajay Devgn and Kajol and moreover, it is a horror film, which is the flavour of the season. Sadly, that didn’t happen and also it was noticed by the makers that the shows weren’t properly allotted across cinemas. Though it’s a horror film, it also appeals to the family as evident by its title and the U/A rating. Hence, it should have got prominent showcasing in the afternoon and evening and also overall more shows but in many places, that hasn’t happened.”

The source continued, “As a result, the makers are displeased with the arrangement. They believe that if the showcasing was fair, the collections of Maa could have been higher.”

Bollywood Hungama learned that the 4:15 pm show at PVR Sangam, Andheri, Mumbai, which recorded huge occupancy on Saturday, was discontinued on Sunday in favour of Sitaare Zameen Par. Incidentally, like Maa, Sitaare Zamaeen Par is also distributed by PVR.

An exhibition source explained, “In the Dadar-Matunga-Mahim belt, which has no multiplex and consists of single screens, all cinemas either have an afternoon show of 1:00 pm and an evening show of 7:00 pm. Ideally, the showcasing should be such that a couple of cinemas should have a show at around 4:00 pm as well because a section of the moviegoing audience might prefer to watch Maa at that time. But with the strategy in place, they don’t have that choice.”

A trade expert commented on condition of anonymity, “This week is crowded as Sitaare Zameen Par has held up well. Maa has managed to perform while F1: The Movie is also recording terrific occupancy. In such instances, show-sharing issues are bound to happen. The problem becomes manifold when the distributor overcommits and then falls short of expectations and doesn’t plan the showcasing well. In this case, PVR Inox also had to accommodate their other film, Sitaare Zameen Par. Nevertheless, the makers are bound to feel shortchanged when they don’t get the desired number of shows.”

Past instances

This isn’t the first time that PVR Inox’s distribution has come under the scanner. A few days back, Bollywood Hungama reported on how Warner Bros was also upset with the multiplex chain for not giving a reasonable number of shows to F1: The Movie. A week before, we revealed that PVR Inox backed off after assuring B and C centre theatres that they would be given Sitaare Zamaeen Par. The theatres even got the publicity material from the distribution team and at the last minute, the film wasn’t given to them, leaving them in a tough spot.

In December 2024, Baby John’s advance booking was also affected as PVR Inox Pictures had asked for 60% of showcasing for the Varun Dhawan-starrer while they asked exhibitors to allot the balance 40% of the shows to Pushpa 2 – The Rule. To the single screens, they insisted that there should be 3 shows of their film and 1 show of Pushpa 2 – The Rule. The theatres didn’t agree to this demand as the Allu Arjun-starrer was doing historic business.

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Ritesh Batra returns with a love story 6 years after Photograph, shoot begins this September: Report

The acclaimed filmmaker Ritesh Batra’s is set to return to the director’s chair, six years after his last release, Photograph (2019), which starred Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Sanya Malhotra. As per a report in Mid-Day, Batra is gearing up to begin production on a new romantic drama—staying true to the gentle, emotional storytelling that has become his hallmark over the past 12 years. The project is expected to go on floors in September.

“Ritesh spent a considerable time writing this big romance. The film is in final prep mode,” an insider revealed to the publication. Known for delivering heartfelt Indian romantic dramas like The Lunchbox (2013) and Photograph (2019), as well as international narratives such as Our Souls at Night (2017) and The Sense of an Ending (2017), Batra is now set to bring a cross-cultural love story to life.

“It’s a mature romance between an Indian man and a foreigner. It’s the kind of sensitive drama about love and loss that Ritesh has come to be known for,” a source shared with Mid-Day. The cast for the project has already been finalized.

The project will mark Ritesh Batra’s reunion with Guneet Monga Kapoor, who was one of the producers of The Lunchbox. She returns as one of the producers on this international co-production.

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Ranveer Singh to join Maddock Films’ expanding horror-comedy universe?

The unprecedented success of Stree, starring Shraddha Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao, laid the foundation for Maddock Films to build its own horror-comedy universe. This cinematic world already features popular names like Pankaj Tripathi, Akshay Kumar, Rashmika Mandanna, and Ayushmann Khurrana. Now, the latest buzz suggests that Ranveer Singh may also be joining this growing universe.

According to a report by Mid-Day, a source close to the production revealed, “Ranveer has been in conversations with Dinesh for a while. He was at the Maddock office last week. The makers wanted a fresh energy to drive the next chapter, and Ranveer is keen to explore the genre. The paperwork is likely to be completed soon.” The source further added, “The idea is to create an Avengers-style culmination down the road. They are discussing dates, as Ranveer will soon wrap up Aditya Dhar’s Dhurandhar. He has also allotted dates for Don 3. This project is expected to go on floors in early 2026.”

As of now, neither Ranveer Singh nor Maddock Films has officially confirmed or denied the report. However, the possibility of seeing Ranveer enter the horror-comedy space is exciting, especially since this would mark his first project in the genre. Additionally, it has been a while since fans have seen him in a full-fledged role, with his last release being Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani in 2023.

Speaking of his current projects, Ranveer is presently shooting for Dhurandhar, directed by Aditya Dhar. The film boasts a strong ensemble cast including Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, R. Madhavan, and Akshaye Khanna. Beyond that, he also has Don 3 lined up in his upcoming slate.

Also Read: Basil Joseph shuts down casting rumours: “Shaktimaan is ONLY Ranveer Singh!”

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Ileana D’Cruz welcomes second child, shares name and photo

Actress Ileana D’Cruz may appear less frequently on the big screen these days and rarely gives interviews. Still, she continues to keep her fans updated about her personal life, be it her pregnancy journey or the challenges of motherhood. On June 28, the actress shared yet another heartwarming update: the birth of her second child, a baby boy, with husband Michael Dolan.

For those unaware, Ileana and Michael tied the knot in an intimate ceremony in 2023 and welcomed their first child, Koa Phoenix Dolan, in August of the same year.

Taking to Instagram, Ileana shared an adorable monochrome photograph showing the newborn sleeping peacefully. Along with the picture, she wrote, “Our hearts are so full.” The image also revealed the name and birthdate of their second child, Keanu Rafe Dolan, born on June 19, 2025.

Thousands of her fans took to the comments section to congratulate the actress. Among them was her Barfi! co-star Priyanka Chopra, who commented, “Congratulations beautiful.”

 

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Ileana had confirmed her second pregnancy in October 2024. A few months later, she hosted an Ask Me Anything session on Instagram, during which she opened up about her parenting values. “People, and especially kids, should be taught that being cruel, wicked, unkind or selfish are not lovable traits… Love has to be earned, just like respect and happiness,” she said. She added, “I want to raise happy, healthy, kind children (I’m sure all parents do), and I will do my best to ensure that they know how loved they are.”

On the professional front, Ileana was last seen in Do Aur Do Pyaar (2024), co-starring Pratik Gandhi, Vidya Balan, and Sendhil Ramamurthy. Before that, she featured in Tera Kya Hoga Lovely (2022). When Raid 2 was announced, fans were eager to see her reprise her role in the Ajay Devgn-led sequel. However, due to the responsibilities of early motherhood, Ileana opted out of the film and was eventually replaced by Vaani Kapoor.

Also Read: Ileana D’Cruz announces second pregnancy with baby bump photo: “I want to raise happy, healthy, kind children”

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‘Kaanta Laga’ fame Shefali Jariwala passes away at 42

Shefali Jariwala, best known for her appearance in the iconic music video ‘Kaanta Laga’, passed away on June 27, 2025, at the age of 42.

According to news agency ANI, "Mumbai Police received information about this at 1 a.m. Her body has been sent to Cooper Hospital for postmortem. The cause of death is not yet clear." However, the All Indian Cine Workers Association has claimed that Shefali Jariwala died due to a heart attack. Fans will have to wait for an official confirmation from the authorities or her husband, actor Parag Tyagi.

Shefali Jariwala is no longer with us. Gone too soon at just 42 due to a sudden heart attack. It’s hard to believe she’s gone. May her soul rest in peace, and may God give strength to her family during this heartbreaking time.#RIPShefaliJariwala #GoneTooSoon #RestInPeace… pic.twitter.com/ZUnI3WlETr

— All Indian Cine Workers Association (@AICWAOfficial) June 28, 2025

For those unfamiliar, Shefali rose to fame with her dance performance in 'Kaanta Laga.' Following the song’s success, she went on to participate in several reality shows, including Nach Baliye 5, Nach Baliye 7 (alongside Parag Tyagi), and Bigg Boss 13. Shefali had a strong social media presence, with 3.3 million followers on Instagram and 135k on X (formerly Twitter).

Notably, her last tweet was a heartfelt tribute to the late actor and her ex-boyfriend, Sidharth Shukla. The post, shared on September 2, 2024, featured a photo of the two hugging inside the Bigg Boss 13 house, accompanied by the caption: “Thinking of you today mere dost.”

Thinking of you today mere dost @sidharth_shukla ❤️ pic.twitter.com/sZNv6Ft1hG — Shefali Jariwala (@shefalijariwala) September 2, 2024

The news of Shefali’s sudden passing has shocked the film and television industry. Colleagues, co-stars, and friends took to social media to express their grief. Bigg Boss fame Aly Goni wrote on X, “Shocked and saddened to hear about Shefali Jariwala’s sudden demise. Life is so unpredictable. Rest in peace.”

Yeh Hai Mohabbatein actress Divyanka Tripathi shared, “It’s unbelievable. We are shocked and sad for the family.”

Singer Mika Singh also mourned her loss, writing, “I’m deeply shocked, saddened, and feeling a heavy heart… Our beloved star and my dearest friend @shefalijariwala has left us. Still can’t believe it. You will always be remembered for your grace, smile, and spirit. Om Shanti.”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Kaanta Laga girl Shefali Jariwala REACTS to paparazzi shooting her backside; says, “I have never felt disrespected by them”

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Kajol reflects on her parents separation; says, “They were adults who behaved like mature people”

Bollywood star Kajol opened up about her parents' separation and how it shaped her childhood in a stable and emotionally secure environment. The actress, known for her authenticity both on and off screen, praised her parents—veteran actress Tanuja and late filmmaker Shomu Mukherjee—for maintaining a united front as co-parents despite their personal differences.

In a candid and heartfelt conversation with Nayandeep Rakshit, Kajol said, “I have to give kudos to them. My parents were very clear on one point that it does not matter if we are separated or not, but we will always be there together for you. The decisions we take for you will always be made together. We could not play them against one another. They were adults who behaved like mature people who would do the right things for their children.”

The actress highlighted how this level of emotional maturity helped her and her sister, Tanisha Mukerji, grow up in a home that prioritized consistency and emotional wellbeing. Rather than allowing conflict to disrupt the family dynamic, Kajol’s parents focused on co-parenting with purpose—something that left a lasting impression on her.

When asked if she understood the separation while it was happening, Kajol responded, “I did. I questioned it at that time, but I understood it. As an adult today, I can take that call and understand how brave it was as well to take that decision on both their parts.”

Kajol’s reflection offers a rare and mature insight into the lives of children of separated parents, especially in a society where such topics are often kept behind closed doors. Her admiration for how her parents handled the situation speaks volumes—not only about their parenting, but also about the emotional intelligence and resilience Kajol carries with her today.

Kajol is currently busy with the promotions of Maa, a mythological horror film directed by Vishal Furia, set to hit theatres on 27 June.

She will also be seen in the upcoming action-thriller Maharagni—Queen of Queens, helmed by Charan Tej Uppalapati. The film features a stellar ensemble including Naseeruddin Shah, Prabhu Deva, Jisshu Sengupta, Aditya Seal, and Pramod Pathak.

Also Read : EXCLUSIVE: Here’s why Sujoy Ghosh and his daughter Diya Annapurna Ghosh have been thanked in Kajol-starrer Maa: “Diya was bowled over by the fact that Ajay Devgn…”

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Anshuman Jha steps in as director of Lakadbaggha 2, replacing Sanjay Shetty

Actor-filmmaker Anshuman Jha is confirmed to be directing the upcoming sequel to his 2023 cult vigilante action film Lakadbaggha. Titled Lakadbaggha 2 – The Monkey Business, the much-anticipated follow-up takes the animal-lover vigilante universe global, and is firmly under the creative leadership of Jha himself.

It was initially rumoured that the film would be helmed by adman and filmmaker Sanjay Shetty. However, after three days of principal photography, Jha stepped in to direct the film himself — a move reminiscent of Aamir Khan’s directorial takeover of Taare Zameen Par in 2007. But unlike the well-documented tension that followed that change between Khan & Gupte, this transition has reportedly been collaborative, mutual, and grounded in mutual respect.

A source close to the production revealed, “Anshuman told the team, ‘We will only make this film once — let’s make it the best it can be, regardless of who directs.’ It was never about ego, but about clarity and vision on the animal lover vigilante universe.”

The film’s 2nd AD, Aura Chandel, shared further insight: "Anshuman has been deeply involved from day one — from casting international martial arts legends like Sunny Pang and Dan Chupong to the Indian cast members, to shaping the VFX, score, and narrative tone. Sanjay Sir and Anshuman share a mentor-mentee bond. He assisted Sanjay on ad shoots when he was just 16. There’s no bad blood — only a shared love for the project. The initial bits have been reshot, and the energy on set was incredibly focused.”

Industry insiders say that the decision stemmed from creative alignment, with Jha being most connected to the world and ethos of the Lakadbaggha franchise, which uniquely combines action with a strong message on animal welfare. Shetty has remained on the project as a creative consultant.

With this move, Jha joins the ranks of actor-directors like Clint Eastwood, Bradley Cooper, and most recently Dev Patel (Monkey Man) — artists who bring a deeply personal vision to their storytelling. As one crew member put it, “He’s not just making a film — he’s building a legacy for the voiceless.”

Also Read: From Havoc to Bollywood: Sunny Pang to feature in action-packed Lakadbaggha 2 with Anshuman Jha

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Vidya Balan named brand ambassador for Welspun’s new 360° campaign

Vidya Balan has been announced as the new brand ambassador for Welspun, a leading name in home textiles. The collaboration marks a significant moment for the brand as it sets out to expand its presence across Indian households with a fresh and relatable face at the forefront.

As part of this high-impact partnership, Vidya will feature in Welspun’s upcoming 360-degree marketing campaign, aimed at highlighting the brand’s core promises—durability, comfort, innovation, and daily relevance across its extensive home textile range. The campaign will include brand films and promotional content designed to connect with consumers across both urban and rural India.

Speaking about the association, Saumil Mehta, president & business head of domestic home textile at Welspun Global Brands, said, “Welspun’s vision of ‘Har Ghar Welspun’ is about making trusted quality accessible to every Indian home. As millions of consumers move from unbranded to branded choices, we see a powerful opportunity to lead with authenticity and value. Vidya Balan embodies that spirit—grounded, relatable, and inspiring—which makes her the perfect partner as we expand our reach and deepen our relevance across Bharat.”

Known for her versatility and substance-driven roles, Vidya brings more than just star power—she brings trust and relatability, which aligns seamlessly with Welspun’s brand ethos. The choice of Vidya as the face of the brand also reflects Welspun’s focus on authenticity and emotional connect.

Pradnya Popade, head of marketing – domestic home textile, Welspun Global Brands, added, “Vidya Balan’s authenticity, grounded choices, and pan India connect make her a natural fit. Her effortless storytelling and the way she connects with audiences at large meaningfully, reflect the kind of relationship we aim to build with our consumers. She resonates with the same values that define our brand—trust, relevance, and purpose. At a time when Indian consumers are moving toward smarter, value-driven purchases, Welspun offers products that combine durability, functionality, innovation, making it worth their budget.”

Expressing her enthusiasm, Vidya Balan shared, “I have always believed in associating with brands that stand for something meaningful. Welspun’s focus on durability, comfort, and varied design really resonates with me. It’s a brand that understands people’s daily needs and delivers with sincerity—and I’m proud to be part of this journey.”

With this collaboration, Welspun is set to strengthen its connect with the evolving Indian consumer, and Vidya Balan’s presence promises to lend warmth, trust, and nationwide appeal to the brand’s evolving identity.

Also Read : Mahesh Bhatt on 10 years of Hamari Adhuri Kahani, “Incomplete stories are the only ones worth telling”

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EXCLUSIVE: Here's why Sujoy Ghosh and his daughter Diya Annapurna Ghosh have been thanked in Kajol-starrer Maa: "Diya was bowled over by the fact that Ajay Devgn…"

The mythological-horror film Maa was released today, June 27, and it has caught attention due to the genre, trailer, concept and association of Kajol. The film begins with the mention of Sujoy Ghosh and his director-daughter Diya Annapurna Ghosh under ‘Special Thanks’. It's sure to make a lot of people curious about the same as Sujoy is not associated with the project in any capacity.

This writer, too, was very curious and reached out exclusively to Sujoy Ghosh to understand the reason behind his and Diya’s mention. Sujoy, who is currently in London, explained, “My daughter Diya held the rights to the title ‘Maa’. She wanted to make a film with that title. One day, Ajay called me and expressed the desire to have the title for his film. I asked Diya about it. She agreed to part with the title. Her script is still under development and it’ll take time before her film can go on floors. On the other hand, Ajay and his team were all set to roll. Hence, we decided to live and let live (smiles).”

He added, “We’ll now think of some other title for our film.”

Sujoy Ghosh also revealed, “Diya is a fan of Ajay Devgn. We are also his fans. Diya was bowled over by the fact that Ajay Devgn asked her for the title rights. It was a true fan moment for her (laughs).”

Maa is backed by Jio Studios and Devgn Films and is directed by Vishal Furia. It also stars Ronit Roy, Kherin Sharma, Indraneil Sengupta and Dibyendu Bhattacharya in leading roles.

Diya Annapurna Ghosh, meanwhile, debuted as a director with the Zee5 flick Bob Biswas (2021) starring Abhishek Bachchan and Chitrangda Singh. It was a spin-off to the 2012 acclaimed thriller, Kahaani, which was incidentally directed by Sujoy Ghosh.

As for Sujoy Ghosh, he last directed Jaane Jaan (2023), starring Kareena Kapoor Khan, Vijay Varma and Jaideep Ahlawat. It dropped directly on Netflix and was one of the most-viewed films on the streaming giant that year.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: No cuts, no ‘A’ rating – Kajol-starrer Maa is a RARE horror film to be awarded with a U/A certificate

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Salman Khan adds bulletproof Mercedes Maybach GLS 600 worth Rs. 3.40 crores to his luxury collection of cars

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has recently upgraded his collection of high-end vehicles with a bulletproof Mercedes‑Maybach GLS 600 SUV, reportedly costing a staggering Rs. 3.40 crores.

The latest edition to the star’s garage is not just visually imposing but also packing serious performance under the hood. At its heart lies a 4.0‑litre twin‑turbocharged V8 petrol engine, augmented by a 48V mild‑hybrid system. This potent drivetrain, linked to a 9‑speed automatic gearbox with 4MATIC all‑wheel drive, enables a sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in a swift 4.9 seconds, and a top speed nearing 250 km/h. The reported Rs. 3.40 crores price tag includes the luxurious Maybach shell and bulletproof enhancements—armored panels and reinforced glazing. Inside, the GLS 600 exudes Maybach-level luxury: panoramic sunroof, plush leather interiors, rear executive seating, a high-end Burmester audio system, and four‑zone climate control. In blending performance, protection, and prestige, Salman’s new GLS 600 stands as a clear statement—an unmissable, safe, and powerful presence on Mumbai’s roads. With his next major film imminent, the superstar appears determined that both his cinematic and real‑life journeys remain equally secure and spectacular. Rumours about Salman’s decision cite heightened security concerns, especially after recent threats allegedly linked to criminal outfits, prompting both his residence and ride to receive bulletproof upgrades.

On the work front, Salman was last seen earlier this year in AR Murugadoss’ Sikandar. The action drama also starred Rashmika Mandanna, Sathyaraj, Sharman Joshi, Kajal Aggarwal among others.

Also Read: Audit reveals Rs. 91 cr. damage from Sikandar piracy leak – NGEPL to file Bollywood’s BIGGEST piracy insurance claim

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Yash Raj Films’ War 2 set for global IMAX release on August 14; new posters unveiled featuring Hrithik Roshan, Ntr & Kiara Advani

Yash Raj Films (YRF), the powerhouse behind India’s most successful film franchises, has officially announced the global IMAX release of its highly anticipated action blockbuster War 2. Directed by Ayan Mukerji, the film will hit IMAX theatres across North America, the Middle East, the UK & Europe, Australasia, Africa, and Southeast Asia, simultaneously with its domestic release in India on August 14, 2025.

Marking the 50-day countdown to release, YRF also dropped visually striking new posters featuring Hrithik Roshan, NTR Jr., and Kiara Advani, turning up the excitement for what promises to be the most thrilling chapter yet in the YRF Spy Universe.

War 2: Taking the YRF Spy Universe Global

Building on the massive success of films like Pathaan, Tiger 3, and the original War, War 2 is poised to become a global action spectacle. The franchise’s last major hit, Pathaan, ranked among the top-grossing IMAX releases in Indian cinema history—raising expectations sky-high for its next instalment.

The upcoming film not only pits two megastars—Hrithik Roshan and NTR Jr.—in a high-octane showdown but also features cutting-edge visuals and next-level stunts that have been shot with IMAX presentation in mind, ensuring a larger-than-life cinematic experience.

YRF and IMAX Partner to Deliver a Global Action Extravaganza

Nelson D’Souza, Vice President of International Distribution at YRF, emphasized the studio’s vision to push Indian cinema onto the world stage, “War 2 is a landmark moment in the YRF Spy Universe and we’re thrilled to partner with IMAX to deliver it in the most immersive format possible. The film pits two of the biggest superstars in Indian cinema in a face-off that’s truly epic in every sense. IMAX will deliver this thrill in spades to audiences globally.”

Christopher Tillman, VP of International Development and Distribution at IMAX, echoed the excitement, “We’re thrilled to be collaborating with Aditya Chopra and YRF to bring ‘War 2’ to IMAX locations across the world. Ayan Mukerji is crafting an adrenaline-fueled spectacle, and with Hrithik Roshan and Jr. NTR’s electrifying performances, this film is designed to explode on the IMAX screen.”

Exclusive Teaser Now Playing in Theatres

A special IMAX teaser for War 2 is already playing in theatres across the globe, offering fans a taste of what’s to come. The full spectacle, however, lands on August 14, 2025, and will be available exclusively in IMAX, delivering an unparalleled action experience.

With director Ayan Mukerji at the helm and a power-packed cast, War 2 promises to raise the bar for Indian action cinema on a global scale.

Also Read: Ayan Mukerji calls directing War 2 “relishing opportunity”; speaks on working with “huge” actors Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR

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Aayush Sharma undergoes two back-to-back surgeries, shares update: “Good health isn’t just about a six-pack. It’s about what’s happening inside”

Actor Aayush Sharma, who is currently recovering from two back surgeries, shared a heartfelt note on June 24 detailing his health journey and recovery process. The Ruslaan actor took to social media to open up about ignoring a persistent back injury for years and how it ultimately caught up with him while shooting for his next film.

In a candid post accompanied by photos and videos from the hospital and gym, Sharma reflected on the importance of listening to one’s body. “Life has its way of slowing you down to make sure you listen,” he wrote, adding that the pain began during a stunt for Ruslaan. Like many, he initially brushed it off. “Nothing too dramatic, so I did what most of us tend to do… ignored it, masked it, and kept going.”

However, the condition worsened during the shoot of his upcoming project. What initially seemed minor eventually impacted his ability to perform basic movements, including dancing, stunts, and stretching. “What I thought was temporary turned out to be far more serious,” he admitted.

The actor revealed he underwent two surgeries and is now officially on the road to recovery. “This phase has taught me that good health isn’t just about a six-pack — it’s about what’s happening inside. Don’t ignore the whispers your body sends you. Act early. Heal properly,” Sharma urged his followers.

He extended gratitude to his medical team, producer Sajid Qureshi, and director Kiran Korrapati for their support during the uncertain weeks of recovery. Sharma also thanked his wife Arpita Khan Sharma and their children, Ahil and Ayat, for transforming his recovery into a period of warmth and comfort.

Touchingly, he shared a moment with his son, who called him “Wolverine” and said, “Papa, you heal fast… I need my Wolverine back.” Aayush ended his note with renewed determination: “I’m coming back stronger. For you. For me. For all of it.”

 

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Sharma’s update has drawn support from fans and well-wishers across the industry, with many commending his resilience and honesty in sharing the challenges behind the glamour of showbiz.

Also Read: Aayush Sharma turns reporter in fun video, shares playful weather update with wife Arpita Khan and daughter Ayat

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EXCLUSIVE: No cuts, no ‘A’ rating - Kajol-starrer Maa is a RARE horror film to be awarded with a U/A certificate

After a fantastic last week for Bollywood thanks to the Aamir Khan-starrer Sitaare Zameen Par, the trade and industry now gears up for another exciting film, Maa. The trailer of the film caught attention due to the casting of Kajol, the horror genre, and the subject. The only concern was that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) might ask for several cuts and even after doing so, they might award an ‘A’ certificate to the film. But with this film, the CBFC has given a pleasant surprise to one and all.

As per the cut list, the CBFC has passed the film without a single audio or visual cut. A source told Bollywood Hungama, “With CBFC, one can never know. In Sitaare Zameen Par, the members asked for Michael Jackson to be replaced by ‘lovebirds’ and ‘Business Woman’ was changed to ‘Business Person’. That and the insistence on adding a quote from the Prime Minister led to a storm. Hence, the fear was that when a clean film like Sitaare Zameen Par gets such cuts, what would happen to Maa which is a horror flick.”

The source continued, “However, the CBFC’s Examining Committee didn’t cut a single shot, though a few scenes are disturbing. And that’s not all. They also allowed the film to have a U/A 16+ rating. This means that the under-18 crowd can also view this film.”

This is a rarity because most horror or supernatural films are given an ‘A’ certificate like Chhorii 2 (2025), 1920: Horrors Of The Heart (2023), Bhoot: Part One – The Haunted Ship (2020), Amavas (2019), Ghost (2019), Tumbbad (2018) etc. The only other supernatural Hindi film of recent times which didn’t get an adults-only certificate was Shaitaan (2024); like Maa, it was also backed by Devgn Films and Jio Studios. Horror comedies, meanwhile, are passed with a U/A certificate though.

Coming back to Maa, the CBFC, however, simply asked the makers to increase the disclaimer length up to readable time and also asked them to add about "anti-girl child and human sacrifice" details. Lastly, as per the rules in force since 2021, the makers were told to mention the title of the film in Hindi as well.

Once these changes were made, the censor certificate was handed to the makers of Maa on June 20. The length of the film, as mentioned on the censor certificate, is 135.35 minutes, that is, 2 hours 15 minutes and 35 seconds.

Maa releases in cinemas on June 27.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Jitin Gulati shares his excitement about being part of Kajol starrer Maa; says, “It was an easy yes”

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FWICE calls for ban on Diljit Dosanjh’s projects after Pakistani actress Hania Aamir appears in Sardaar Ji 3 trailer

After the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, the Indian film industry is treading cautiously, distancing itself from collaborations with Pakistani artists. The first major casualty was Abir Gulaal, which was set to mark Fawad Khan’s much-awaited Bollywood comeback alongside Vaani Kapoor. The film was shelved just days before its release.

Another film under scrutiny is Sardaar Ji 3, starring Diljit Dosanjh. Speculation around Pakistani actress Hania Aamir’s casting in the project was confirmed when the trailer dropped on June 23. In the same announcement, the makers clarified that the film would release exclusively overseas.

However, the move sparked widespread backlash online. Several netizens criticised both Diljit and the producers for casting a Pakistani actress amid heightened tensions between the two nations, especially following Hania Aamir’s condemnation of India’s counter-operation, Operation Sindoor. Now, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has called for a complete ban on all of Diljit Dosanjh’s upcoming projects.

FWICE President B.N. Tiwari told Hindustan Times, "By working with a Pakistani actor, Diljit has hurt Indian sentiments. He has disrespected the nation’s emotions and insulted the sacrifices of our brave soldiers. His preference for Pakistani talent over Indian artists raises serious questions about his loyalty and priorities."

He added, "We are aware that the film is not being released in India. But if they plan to do so in the future, we will oppose it and call for a ban. For now, the overseas release stands. That being said, Diljit’s collaboration with a Pakistani actor is something we cannot overlook. We have demanded a strict ban on all of his upcoming films, songs, or any other projects. The producers of Sardaar Ji 3 are also included in this ban."

Sardaar Ji 3 features Neeru Bajwa, Jasmin Bajwa, Manav Vij, and others in key roles. The film is scheduled for an overseas release on June 27.

Also Read: Sardaar Ji 3 faces heat over Pakistani actress Hania Aamir’s casting: Producer of Diljit Dosanjh starrer BREAKS SILENCE; says, “Shot before the Indo-Pak conflict”

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