Heeramandi: Sanjay Leela Bhansali announces the release of First Look on February 1

Ever since Bollywood filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali announced his web show debut with Heeramandi, fans are eager to catch a glimpse of the magnum opus. The filmmaker, known for his lavish sets and larger-than-life cinema, will be showcasing another historical drama set against the backdrop of the pre-Independence era. The first glimpse of the upcoming show after unveiling the poster last year will now be released on February 1.

On Wednesday, Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s production house shared the news of the first look announcement on X, formerly known as Twitter, with a post saying, “Get ready for the first look at Sanjay Leela Bhansali's first series, the majestic world of Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, arrives tomorrow!”. The announcement video also featured the tidbits of the musil one can expect from the show. Earlier, the poster unveiled the looks of the lead characters essayed by an ensemble cast, which includes Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sanjeeda Sheikh, Richa Chadha, and Sanjay’s niece Sharmin Segal, as courtesans.

Get ready for the first look at Sanjay Leela Bhansali's first series, the majestic world of Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, arrives tomorrow!#Heeramandi #HeeramandiOnNetflix #SanjayLeelaBhansali @prerna982 @mkoirala #SonakshiSinha @aditiraohydari @sharminsegal @RichaChadha… pic.twitter.com/xZcqCSvs0f — BhansaliProductions (@bhansali_produc) January 31, 2024

The show is not only expected to be made on an extensive budget but it is also expected to feature a host of celebrities as it is said to be a social drama set in the 1940s and revolves around the courtesan culture. In an earlier interview with Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos, SLB had called the show as a tribute to films based on courtesans like Pakeezah, Mughal-e-Azam.

He also appreciated several filmmakers who managed to effortlessly work on such magnum opuses like Raj Kapoor, Bimal Roy, and Guru Dutt. “They told beautiful women stories. They understood that she is the creator of man, therefore she needs to be given a place in literature, cinema and art. They always told stories of women, they were not necessarily telling stories of men. So if there is a Bajirao, there is also Mastani for me. If there was no Padmavati, who would hold the fort, fight and go into fire, I wouldn’t have made that film,” he had said.

Heeramandi will be premiering on Netflix.

Also Read: Adhyayan Suman joins the cast of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Heeramandi; actor says, “For me Mr Bhansali is no less than god”

Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR starrer War 2 to commence shoot from February in Mumbai; report

While Tiger Shroff and Hrithik Roshan together won hearts as sleek spies in the YRF action entertainer War, fans are excited to see the franchise return with the superstar headlining the cast. However, some interesting names have been added to the star cast like RRR fame Jr NTR and Kiara Advani, who will be essaying key roles in War 2. Now, the latest update on that front is that the film is going on floors in Mumbai next month, as per ETimes report.

Not too long ago, Hrithik Roshan was seen travelling across the country to promote his latest release Fighter. And now we hear that he is expected to commence shooting on War 2. In fact, we hear that the preps have started on full swing and that Roshan, who decided to immerse himself into getting fit to play an Indian Air Force officer in his latest release, has kicked off work on this actioner. We hear that the shooting for the film will kick off from Mumbai and that the filmmaker has already jotted down foreign locales where the film will continue to be shot.

A source was quoted in these reports confirmed these details adding, "Ayan Mukerji has already captured overseas location plates approximately two months ago. Currently, a set is under construction in the city in preparation for Hrithik's first shooting schedule".

A lot of expectations are riding high on this film which will mark Hrithik Roshan’s return on the big screen as a spy and audiences can expect some new twists and turns. Being a part of the ambitious YRF spy universe which is being created by Aditya Chopra, there were references to War 2 in the last release Tiger 3, which is also a part of this spyverse along with Pathaan. With Jr NTR as the antagonist and Kiara Advani expected to play the female lead, War 2 is expected to be releasing by the end of this year.

Also Read: Hrithik Roshan promises War 2 will be fun: “My challenge is to show Kabir in a different light”

Ranbir Kapoor starrer Animal soars at No. 4 on Netflix with 6.2 million viewership

Netflix India recently elevated the long weekend with the global digital release of the much-anticipated blockbuster film Animal on January 26, 2024. Boasting a cast including Ranbir Kapoor, Anil Kapoor, Bobby Deol, Rashmika Mandanna, and Triptii Dimri, the movie is now accessible in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada, on Netflix. Released in theatres on December 2023, the film, helmed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, garnered polarizing reactions but collected more than Rs. 800 crore at the global box office.

Now, five days after the release of the film on the platform, the film has garnered 6.2 million viewers with 20 million watch time hours. Animal is soaring at No. 4 on Netflix’s Non-English Film list, in its first week of the release.

Recently, Ranbir Kapoor was felicitated with the Best Actor Award at Filmfare 2024 in Gujarat for his performance in Animal.

Directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, this action drama explores the intricacies of modern-day relationships, focusing on the dynamics between a father and son. The film is produced by Bhushan Kumar and Krishan Kumar, Murad Khetani, and Pranay Reddy Vanga. ALSO READ: Ranbir Kapoor signs Sanjay Leela Bhansalis Love & War on his own terms and conditions - fixed working hours and 270 days for shoot

Veteran actor Ashok Saraf conferred with Mahashtra Bhushan 2023 by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde

Renowned actor Ashok Saraf, celebrated for his prolific contributions to Marathi cinema and Hindi films, has been honoured with the prestigious Maharashtra Bhushan Award 2023. Acknowledging his stellar career, the announcement was made by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The award stands as a testament to Saraf's enduring legacy and his role in shaping the cinematic narrative, transcending boundaries.

“Chief Minister announced giving 2023 Varshacha Maharashtra Bhushan Award to senior Marathi film and theatre actor Ashok Saraf for his immense contribution in the field of art. Ashok Saraf is not only humorous but has shown various shades from serious nature to villainous tendencies through his acting and has congratulated such Chief Ministers as Ghadaville and Rasikanwar Adhirajya Gajwale," wrote the Maharashtra CM on FaceBook, now called Meta.

Ashok Saraf gained fame for his performances in Marathi plays and later transitioned to films. Some of his notable Marathi films include Chal Re Laxya Mumbaila, Ashi Hi Banwa Banwi, and Thartharat. In Hindi cinema, he appeared in films like Shaukeen, Pyaar Kiya Toh Darna Kya, Chhoti Si Baat, and Rang Birangi.

Shabana Azmi -Sunny Deol to share screen space for the first time

There seems no end to what the incomparable Shabana Azmi can do on screen. After sharing screen space with Dharmendra in Karan Johar’s Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani for the first time—an unconventional pairing that ignited the screen—Shabana will now be seen with Dharmendra’s son Sunny Deol in Raj Kumar Santoshi’s Lahore 1947, although they are not cast as romantic leads.

Shabana plays the pivotal part of a Hindu matriarch in Lahore who refuses to let go off her ancestral haveli after it is allotted to a Muslim migrant family from India.

Lahore 1947 also stars Preity Zinta as Sunny Deol’s Significant Other. The two were last seen together in the disastrous Bhaiaji Superhit in 2018. Whether Zinta is relocating to Mumbai to resume her career is not known.

Also Read: Shabana Azmi remembers her Khandhar co-star Sreela Majumdar; says, “Her performances had great emotional depth”

Amy Jackson engaged to Gossip Girl star Ed Westwick, see proposal photos from Switzerland

After years of courtship, British actress Amy Jackson and Gossip Girl star Ed Westwick have sealed their love with a picturesque engagement in Switzerland. The couple surprised fans with stunning proposal photos featuring the breathtaking snowy mountains as a backdrop.

Sharing the pictures along with the ring emoji on her Instagram, Amy Jackson wrote, “Hell yes.” On his Instagram stories, Ed Westwick wrote, “I hit the jackpot.”

The comments section was filled with congratulatory messages. Kiara Advani dropped heart emojis on Amy’s post whereas Kriti Sanon wrote, “Omg! Congratulations love.” Lisa Haydon left a comment which read, “Awww love congrats and glacier 3000.” Athiya Shetty also commented, “Congratulations.”

 

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  A post shared by Amy Jackson (@iamamyjackson)

Back in August 2023, Amy Jackson and Ed Westwick took the next step in their relationship and purchased a dream house in the countryside. Amy Jackson and Ed Westwick were dating privately for a while before making it official in February of 2022.

In their interview with Lifestyle Asia, Amy said, “He’s my partner in everything we do. He’s the voice of reason and calmness in chaotic times, he’s direct yet sensitive, an introverted extrovert, able to make me cry with laughter even through some of the toughest times. We share a passion for creating and growing as individuals and as a unit – I’ve never had someone who supports and encourages me to wholeheartedly explore my true self. He makes me feel like I can do anything. And as if that wasn’t enough, he’s the kindest, most caring human being to my little boy, Andreas – I love their relationship.”

Previously, Amy Jackson was engaged to George Panayiotou in January 2019 and gave birth to their son Andreas. In 2021, it was confirmed that the pair had parted ways after over two years of dating.

On the other hand, Ed Westwick was in a relationship with South African model and influencer Tamara Francesconi but called it quits after two years of dating. ALSO READ: Amy Jackson and Ed Westwick take next step in their relationship; buy their dream home in countryside

Tamannaah Bhatia to headline Dharmatic Entertainment produced start-up dramedy for Prime Video: Report

Tamannaah Bhatia is set to collaborate with Dharma Productions’ digital wing, Dharmatic Entertainment, for an upcoming start-up dramedy, set for Prime Video India. While the title of the project is kept under wraps, Archit Kumar of Dr. Arora fame will be directing this light-hearted series.

As per a report in Peeping Moon, this dramedy will feature two women and the casting for the second lead is underway. The report states, “Currently in pre-production, filming is slated for mid-March or early April, creating anticipation for a nuanced exploration of the highs and lows of the startup journey.”

This marks the second project Dharmatic Entertainment following Showtime, starring Emraan Hashmi and Naseeruddin Shah. It is set for a summer 2024 release.

For Tamanaah Bhatia, this marks her fourth digital project, following Prime Video’s Jee Karda, Netflix’s Plan A Plan B and Disney+Hotstar’s Aakhiri Sach.

On the work front, Tamannaah Bhatia will next star in John Abraham starrer Vedaa, Nawazuddin Siddiqui starrer Bole Chudiyan, and Tamil movie Arnamanai 4. ALSO READ: Tamannaah Bhatia embarks on a spiritual sojourn, visits Kamakhya temple with loved ones; see pics

Ashutosh Gowariker to receive prestigious Medal of St. Tropez for boosting France-India cultural ties

The second edition of NIRVANA Indian Culture & Cinema, to be held from 31 May – 2 June 2024, in the stunning seaside town of Saint Tropez, will once again host Indian filmmakers, movie stars, producers, writers, musicians, artists and dancers with screenings, producer’s round table, book launch, food festival, yoga session and much more. The city of St. Tropez will honour Academy Award-nominated Indian filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker with the ‘Medal of St. Tropez’ for his outstanding contribution to world cinema and screen the film Swades starring Shah Rukh Khan at the second edition of the festival.

Ashutosh Gowariker, an accomplished Indian film director, screenwriter, and producer, and actor has left an indelible mark on the Bollywood landscape with his impactful contributions. Gowariker gained widespread recognition for his directorial debut, Lagaan (2001), which not only garnered critical acclaim but also earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film. Later, he directed Jodhaa Akbar (2008) Mohenjo Daro (2016), and Panipat (2019), another set of movies that received accolades for its grandeur and storytelling. His achievements extend beyond directing, as he has also acted in some films in his career, including the recent series Kaala Paani, showcasing his multifaceted talents in the Indian film industry.

Full of gratitude and humility, Ashutosh said, "I want to thank Ms. Sylvie Siri, Mayor of Saint-Tropez, for this honour and I look forward to contributing towards strengthening the bond between the cultural and cinema industries of France and India. Screening Swades at NIRVANA will be an absolute pleasure and I am looking forward to interacting with all the cinema enthusiasts in the beautiful city of Saint-Tropez. "

Parched, directed by Leena Yadav, and 2018 (India’s entry at the Oscars 2023) directed by Jude Anthany Joseph, are part of the festival's official program.

In its first edition, held from 27-29 May 2024, NIRVANA screened, the international version of Indian filmmakers Ketan Mehta’s The Rising (Director’s Cut), Pan Nalin’s Chhello Show (India’s entry at the Oscars 2022), Rima Das’s Village Rockstars, Shubhashish Bhutiani’s Hotel Salvation, Rajat Kapoor’s RK/ RKAY  and Nathalia Syam’s Footprints On Water. Dhoad – the Gypsies of Rajasthan and Folkloric festival of the Bravades by Lou Rampèu de Sant Troupès did a special performance in Saint Tropez. There was also an introduction to Yoga by Praveen Bisht and a Culinary exhibition of Indian Cuisine. Author Dr. Bhuvan Lall’s book India on the World Stage was launched during the festival. Indian filmmakers Deepa Sahi, Surina Narula, and Sanjay Bhutiani were the speakers at the Roundtable on Indo-French Cinema – the Future is Now. His Excellency Mr. Javed Ashraf, Indian Ambassador to France was the chief guest at the First Edition of the Festival.

Ms. Sylvie Siri, Mayor of Saint-Tropez, Regional Councilor said, “With our second edition of NIRVANA we wish to further strengthen the bond between the cultural and cinema industries of France and India. In this partnership with India, we have put all our energies into promoting our city of Saint-Tropez as the foremost choice for Indians for filmmaking, travel, family holidays, and as a marriage destination.”

Mark your calendar for the second edition of NIRVANA Festival de la Culture et du Cinema Indiens 31 May – 2 June 2024.

Also Read: Ashutosh Gowariker reveals that originally, Aamir Khan-starrer Lagaan was set in 1885: “I felt it would be nice to have the birth of Indian National Congress and rise of Bhuvan as a hero”

Actor and singer Adarsh Gourav releases cover ‘Ishq Nachaawe Reprise’ with Rashmeet Kaur

Actor and singer Adarsh Gourav, known for his talent in both acting and music, is set to enchant his audience with the release of his latest cover, ‘Ishq Nachaawe Reprise’. Collaborating with the talented singer Rashmeet Kaur, this musical endeavour follows the success of Adarsh’s debut album ‘Kho Gaye’, a heartfelt tribute to the triumph of his film ‘Kho Gaye Hum Kahan’.

‘Ishq Nachaawe Reprise’, composed and written by Adarsh Gourav and Rashmeet Kaur, takes a unique approach by delving into the theme of the dark side of love, showcasing clean vocals in lieu of rap. Adding to the magic, Pranay skilfully played the keys on the song, creating a harmonious blend of voices and instruments.

Adarsh Gourav, a trained singer who received classical singing training from a young age, initially shared his musical talents on Instagram. However, it was the viral success of his video for ‘Mujhe Tum Nazar Se’ that inspired him to launch covers with fellow artists. Eager to connect with his fans on a deeper level, Adarsh has recently unveiled his dedicated YouTube channel, where he shares his musical creations.

Expressing his joy, Adarsh shared, “The love and acceptance from my fans as a singer are truly motivating. I'm grateful for the support and excited to explore diverse genres. This positive response encourages me to continue pushing boundaries in both acting and music.”

Looking ahead, Adarsh Gourav plans to launch more series of songs, confident that his audience will continue showering him with love and affection. His commitment to both acting and music showcases his multidimensional talent and dedication to his craft.

Also Read: Adarsh Gourav releases a new single titled ‘Kho Gaye’; a song inspired from Kho Gaye Hum Kahan

Karan Johar drops cryptic hints for upcoming film; fans guess Prithviraj Sukumaran, Kajol, and Ibrahim Ali Khan in Sarzameen

Prepare for a cinematic guessing game! Karan Johar, the Bollywood maestro, has dropped tantalising clues on social media, hinting at his next project and inviting fans to crack the code. While not an official announcement, the post has set the internet ablaze with speculation about the film's cast, crew, and even title.

The cryptic note throws out three key hints:

Southern Superstar: A "superstar from the south who has just delivered a pan India juggernaut" has fans buzzing. Names like Prithviraj Sukumaran, riding high on recent successes, are at the top of the list.

Emotional Powerhouse: The mention of a "massively loved actress who continues to awe us with her emotional energy on celluloid" immediately brings to mind Kajol, renowned for her impactful performances.

Legacy Debutant: The final clue hints at a "legacy debut actor" working diligently to carve their own path amidst nepotism. Many believe this could be Ibrahim Ali Khan, Saif Ali Khan's son, rumored to be making his debut in a Karan Johar production.

Adding to the intrigue, the film has apparently been shrouded in secrecy for a year, with even the crew kept in the dark about key details. This secrecy fuels speculation about the plot and genre, leaving fans eager for more.

 

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  A post shared by Karan Johar (@karanjohar)

The post throws a potential title into the mix – Sarzameen. While unconfirmed, it has ignited further theories. Johar has taken things a step further, offering a tantalising reward – a "glimpse of the film" for anyone who correctly guesses the title and other details. This interactive approach has turned fans into detectives, desperately trying to crack the case before the official reveal.

With the film reportedly nearing release, the anticipation is palpable. Whether it's Prithviraj, Kajol, and Ibrahim or another exciting combination, one thing is certain – Karan Johar's next project has created a buzz.

Also Read: Karan Johar introduces audiences to the ‘guest of honor’ of Koffee With Karan 8 – the Koffee Hamper

Bigg Boss 17 Finale: Ajay Devgn starrer Shaitaan takes over Salman Khan's Bigg Boss house

The gripping teaser of Ajay Devgn, Jyotika and R Madhavan starrer Shaitaan has introduced audiences to a sinister world where Shaitaan controls everything and everybody. The intrigue that the teaser has generated has added to the anticipation of what the film holds.

While everyone awaits to know about this edge-of-the-seat natural thriller, the makers have decided to share yet another glimpse into the wicked world of Shaitaan.

For the first time, Bigg Boss' house will be taken over by Shaitaan. Keeping it to the theme of the film, Shaitaan will command the contestants and put them to some mind-boggling tasks.

Ajay Devgn and R Madhavan will join Salman Khan for the finale to talk about how Shaitaan will soon take over the theatres on 8th March 2024. ALSO READ: Shaitaan: First look of R Madhavan, Jyothika, and Ajay Devgn gets unveiled; teaser to be unveiled on January 25

Rahat Fateh Ali Khan assaults his disciple with a bottle in viral video, issues clarification; watch

Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan was recently caught in a video, assaulting his disciple with a bottle. The video went viral on social media on Saturday, January 27. Following this, the singer released a clarification statement.

In a subsequent video, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan issued a clarification about the video, revealing that a mistake made by his student led to disciplinary action. Khan acknowledged the error and emphasized that the disciplinary measure was taken to uphold the standards of his teaching.

Famous singer Rahat Fateh Ali khan beating his servent for bottle of Alcohol pic.twitter.com/9DZwYxgPmV — Ghulam Abbas Shah (@ghulamabbasshah) January 27, 2024

In another video, the said man or disciple said that Rahat Fateh Ali Khan apologized to him later and he does not have any complaints against him. “Ustad ji came and apologized to me. He is my father, murshid, guru and there is nothing wrong with a father punishing his son. Creating a controversy over this video is a way of blackmailing my ustad,” he said.

بوتل میں پیر صاحب کا دم کیا ہوا پانی تھا pic.twitter.com/tTwQqkUS5n — Tariq Mateen (@tariqmateen) January 27, 2024

The said disciple’s father, was standing alongside Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and said that he sees no wrong in a master punishing his disciple.

Rahat Fateh Ali Khan hails from a family steeped in the music industry. His uncle, the venerable Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, remains etched in history as an illustrious member of a renowned qawwali ensemble. Over the years, he has become the head of the qawwali gharana and leads a pack of singers. ALSO READ: Rahat Fateh Ali Khan pays tribute to Sidhu Moosewala on his first death anniversary at a concert in California; dedicates ‘Akhiyan Udeek Diyan’

Ranveer Singh in talks with Atlee, Nelson, Murugadoss and other top filmmakers from South Indian film industry: Report

Ranveer Singh is setting his sights on the vibrant and commercially successful South Indian film industry. According to a recent report by PinkVilla, the actor has actively initiated conversations with several top South Indian directors, eager to collaborate on exciting projects. This move signifies a growing trend of cross-industry collaborations, fuelled by the success of films like Jawan and Animal.

At the forefront of Ranveer's wish list is Atlee, the director of the Shah Rukh Khan starrer Jawan. The two have reportedly spoken numerous times over the phone, with Atlee currently working on the script for his next film. While Allu Arjun remains the frontrunner for the lead role, the door remains open for Ranveer, with a meeting scheduled in the coming weeks.

In addition, Ranveer has held discussions with Nelson (Jailer) and expressed interest in an action film narrated by AR Murugadoss (Ghajini, Holiday). Singh's genre-bending ambitions are further highlighted by his upcoming meeting with Prasanth Varma, the director of HanuMan. It remains unclear whether Singh is being considered for the titular role or a separate project altogether. Additionally, Lokesh Kanagaraj (Vikram) has approached Ranveer for a potential cameo role in his next film starring Rajinikanth.

Basil Joseph's Shaktimaan, a collaboration with Sony Pictures India, is another project on Ranveer's radar, slated for a 2025 release. He understands the significance of this superhero film and wants to ensure all aspects are perfect. Discussions are also underway with Jayantilal Gada and Shankar for a new collaboration, following the legal hurdles faced by their previous projects Vellpari and Aparichit.

According to sources close to Ranveer as per the publication, he is currently prioritising commercially viable projects over strictly content-driven films. His focus is on finding subjects that offer grand cinematic experiences, potentially catering to a wider Pan-Indian audience. While Ranveer actively pursues his South Indian ambitions, his Bollywood commitments remain intact. Don 3 is currently in the writing stage and is expected to begin production by the end of 2024 or early 2025.

Also Read: 6 Years of Padmaavat: Director Sanjay Leela Bhansali lauds Ranveer Singh’s performance in ‘Binte Dil’; says, “I was so moved by what he did”

Mithun Chakraborty gets honoured with Padma Bhushan; son Namashi says, “India has finally given its OG hero his due”

In a recent announcement, the renowned veteran actor and politician, Mithun Chakraborty, has been conferred with the prestigious Padma Bhushan for his exceptional contribution to the world of art. Affectionately dubbed the 'Disco Dancer,' Mithun Chakraborty has not only left an indelible mark with chart-topping songs like ‘I Am A Disco Dancer,’ ‘Yaad Aa Raha Hai,’ and ‘Jimmy Jimmy Jimmy Aaja,’ but also showcased his versatility with nuanced performances in films like Kasturi, Agneepath, Tahader Katha, Titli, Guru, and Projapoti, among others.

Amidst the celebratory atmosphere surrounding his Padma Bhushan win, his youngest son, Namashi Chakraborty, shared his sentiments exclusively with News18 Showsha. Currently, away from the family on a film shoot in a remote area near Bangalore, Mithun's absence did not dampen the joyous occasion for his loved ones.

Namashi expressed, “Dad is shooting in a remote area near Bangalore right now. So, none of us are with him. In fact, we were not even aware that he has gotten the award because we had not spoken to dad. He wasn’t informed about being felicitated with the honour before. When we got the news at about eleven o’clock last night, we somehow managed to reach him. All of us are extremely proud and happy. It’s just an overwhelming feeling.”

Reflecting on his father's achievements, Namashi remarked, "When we got the news last night, we got very emotional. What my father has achieved is almost close to impossible. The way he has succeeded in life, the struggle he has seen is unimaginable and to achieve that level of success feels like something that’s beyond me."

When asked whether the award came a bit late in Mithun Chakraborty's career, Namashi responded, "I think India has finally given its OG hero his due. My father, in his entire life, has never asked for an award. He always won them because of his own merit. That’s what makes us prouder. So, it doesn’t matter when the award came to him."

Also Read: Mithun Chakraborty on playing Kabuliwala, “My performance is my homage to my Afghani friend”

Bhumi Pednekar to make web series debut with Ishaan Khatter in Netflix's Royals: Report

Bollywood actress Bhumi Pednekar is poised to conquer the digital space with her web series debut. Yes! You read it right. As per the latest buzz, Bhumi is all set to collaborate with Ishaan Khatter in a romantic drama series titled Royals for Netflix.

According to a report by PeepingMoon, the show is produced by Pritish Nandy Communications, the renowned production house behind the International Emmy-nominated Amazon Prime Video series Four More Shots Please! Royals promises a large-scale ensemble drama.

"Bhumi wanted to explore long-format storytelling with a project that is unique yet commercially appealing and makes for a compelling watch for a broad audience. Royals encompasses everything she was looking for in her debut OTT venture, and she cannot wait to delve into this world. Her fresh chemistry with Ishaan Khatter would also be something to watch out for," a source close to the project told to the portal.

The report further added that the show is currently in pre-production and is slated to begin filming within a couple of months. It marks the 24th production for Pritish Nandy Communications.

While fans have to wait for the official announcement of the above-mentioned project, Bhumi has a packed schedule. Her Netflix thriller Bhakshak from Red Chillies Entertainment premieres on February 9, followed by Mudassar Aziz's romantic comedy Mere Husband Ki Biwi with Arjun Kapoor and Rakul Preet. Ishaan Khatter, meanwhile, will soon be seen alongside Hollywood A-listers Nicole Kidman and Dakota Fanning in Netflix's The Perfect Couple.

Also Read: Bhumi Pednekar exudes traditional Maharashtrian charm as she gracefully adorns a black and gold silk saree, complemented by an elegant nath

Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal's debut production Girls Will Be Girls bags two major awards at Sundance Film Festival

Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal's maiden production, Girls Will Be Girls, has emerged as the breakout film at Sundance Film Festival 2024 and won two awards! After winning over critics who gave it glowing reviews, this small film with a big heart went on to win the feted Audience award in the World Dramatic Entry category, as well as the Special Jury Award for the Lead actress Preeti Panigrahi.

Written and directed by debutant Shuchi Talati, Girls Will Be Girls is a remarkable coming-of-age film that has garnered unanimous acclaim from the most influential international critics at one of the biggest film festivals in the world. The movie, produced through the collaborative efforts of Chadha and Fazal's joint venture Pushing Buttons Studios with Blink Digital and Dolce Vita Films has managed to win hearts and critics both. As the sole Indian narrative feature at the festival, Girls Will Be Girls stood out, while the Indian Documentary Film 'Nocturnes' also won a prize.

Speaking of this, director Shuchi said, “Directing 'Girls will be Girls' was a deeply personal and rewarding experience. The film's success at Sundance is a testament to the collaborative efforts of a dedicated team. Richa has protected this story and film like a Lioness. It's heartening to see our story resonate with audiences and critics alike, and I hope it sparks important conversations about coming-of-age experiences, that we don't often get to see on screen"

Adding to this, producers Richa and Ali said, “We embarked on this journey with Girls Will Be Girls with courage and the overwhelming response at Sundance has been the stuff of dreams! This experience reinforces our belief in the power of storytelling and the need to champion diverse narratives that resonate globally. As actors, we've always craved powerful stories but getting those opportunities wasn't always in our hands. That's why it's heartening to see our new actors receiving this global acclaim. This recognition motivates us to continue pushing boundaries and telling new stories" ALSO READ: Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal fly off to the US for world premiere of debut production Girls Will Be Girls at Sundance Film Festival

Khichdi 2 starring Supriya Pathak set for digital premiere on ZEE5 on February 9, 2024

ZEE5 announced the world digital premiere of the much-awaited comedy-drama, Khichdi 2: Mission Paanthukistan. Khichdi 2, the follow-up to Khichdi: The Movie (2010) stars Supriya Pathak Kapur, Rajeev Mehta, Anang Desai, Vandana Pathak, Jamnadas Majethia, Kirti Kulhari, Anant Vidhaat Sharma, Reyaansh Vir Chaddha, Flora Saini in prominent roles along with surprise cameos by Farah Khan and Pratik Gandhi. The movie is set to premiere on ZEE5 on 9th February 2024.

In the sequel, the Parekh family goes on an adventure to save the world with Praful playing a double role and also serving as an emperor of a fictional country Paanthukistan. The absurdity, the gags and the silliness return as the Parekh family’s adventure transcends various landscapes – cities, beaches, snow-clad mountains, deserts, and caves. The film promises an uproarious adventure as the Parekh family stumbles upon a royal revelation that catapults them into a whirlwind of comedic chaos.

Producer Jamnadas Majethia further said, “For more than two decades, the Khichdi franchise has been a source of laughter for audiences, creating a nostalgic connection with them. Even after more than a decade since our last film, the excitement has been still buzzing with constant inquiries about the return of Khichdi! It has a robust bond with its fans, and with the World Digital Premiere of Khichdi 2 on ZEE5, we are thrilled that this enduring comedy franchise will continue to not only expand its family but also cross international borders.”

Parekh parivaar ke bade log are back with 2x the madness! ????#Khichdi2 premieres on 9th February, only on #ZEE5#Khichdi2OnZEE5 pic.twitter.com/0ae7k6aXa2 — ZEE5 (@ZEE5India) January 25, 2024

Writer and director Aatish Kapadia said, “Fans eagerly awaited the return of Khichdi, and with this new offering, we're bringing back the unmatched craziness of the Khichdi family through their comedic escapades in Paanthukistan. The franchise holds a special place in our hearts, and through this sequel, we aim to amplify the laughter, craziness, and quintessential humour that fans love. Working with this exceptional cast has been an absolute joy and returning with them after so many years felt like home. I believe our collaborative efforts will bring forth a memorable chapter in the Khichdi legacy.”

Supriya Pathak, the vivacious Hansa, joyfully said, "Bringing Hansa back in Khichdi 2: Mission Paanthukistan has been an absolute delight. The laughter, camaraderie, and sheer absurdity of the character never fail to bring a smile to my face. Hansa as a character has resonated so well across all age groups and it has been the most gratifying role of my life. This new instalment guarantees another laughter-filled rollercoaster ride and what better platform than ZEE5 for a homegrown show like Khichdi”.

Created by Jamnadas Majethia and Aatish Kapadia's Hats Off Productions, Khichdi first premiered as a TV series in 2002 on Star Plus. The second season, titled Instant Khichdi, aired in 2004 on Star One. The show was made into a movie in 2010. ALSO READ: Khichdi 2 trailer launch: Kiku Sharda jokes about Dunki: “Bulane ke liye toh hum Shah Rukh Khan ji ko bhi bula le. Par woh yahaan pe aake ‘Dunki’ baatein karenge”

After Shah Rukh Khan, Ranveer Singh, and others, Kriti Sanon gets golden visa for UAE

Kriti Sanon has added another feature to her cap and has joined a host of Bollywood celebrities by receiving the Golden Visa for UAE. The special visa is generally provided to investors, entrepreneurs, individuals with exceptional talents, among others, and the actress has received the honor as a popular Bollywood star. In the past, many of her colleagues like Ranveer Singh, Sanjay Dutt, including co-actors like Shah Rukh Khan, Varun Dhawan, Arjun Kapoor, along with several South celebrities have received this special visa.

With this special visa, the owners of the Golden Visa can study, start businesses, and even reside there up to 10 years without any national sponsorship. Kriti Sanon received this from the hands of ECH Digital CEO Iqbal Marconi and she also expressed gratitude by issuing an official statement saying, “It’s an honour to receive the UAE Golden Visa. Dubai has a special place in my heart, and I look forward to being part of its vibrant cultural landscape.”

On the work front, Kriti Sanon, who was last seen in Ganapath, is currently gearing up for a romantic comedy titled Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya. The film will feature her alongside Shahid Kapoor for the first time and is directed by Amit Joshi - Aradhana Sah. It will feature her in the role of a robot named Sifra and is produced by Maddock Films. It is slated for release during the Valentine’s Week, on February 9. Apart from this, Kriti also has The Crew with Tabu and Kareena Kapoor Khan in the pipeline. The actress has now also ventured into production and will be producing her first film titled Do Patti which will also star Kajol.

Also Read: Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya Trailer Launch: “I was really looking forward to work with Kriti Sanon because I really have enjoyed her work” praises Shahid Kapoor

Hrithik Roshan, Deepika Padukone starrer Fighter falls prey to piracy; full movie gets leaked on torrents

According to recent reports, Fighter, which has been garnering rave reviews across, has become a victim of piracy. The film, which brings together Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone for the first time on the big screen, reportedly is based on the life of Indian Air Force officers. Inspired by real life events, the Siddharth Anand directorial is heavy on aerial action and VFX, as well as it is expected to be a one-of-a-kind film which has now been leaked online.

The full movie, reportedly, is available on torrents and other websites which is expected to have released on these platforms on Day 1 of its release, that is, on January 25. From what we hear, the movie, which has been leaked, is even in high-quality HD format and it is being said that this incident can have a heavy impact on its box office collections.

Earlier in an interview with Bollywood Hungama, Siddharth Anand had described the challenges he faced when he was thinking of making Fighter. He revealed that he had no background in armed forces and had sought the help of former Air Force officers to pen down this script. The director also faced many difficulties in creating aerial action sequences and he had said, “It was very challenging because it was like keeping a fish out of water. I had no idea how this is done. I just knew what I wanted to do. The how of it was a big journey. It was a journey of two years of prep, planning and extreme research, then getting the air force on board, getting them to allow us to use their airbases, choppers by giving them over 2000 storyboards, showing them how we were going to do our real and believable scenes and we can execute them. It’s been a very long process, which makes War and Pathaan look like very simple films.”

Apart from Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone playing Air Force officers, Fighter also stars Anil Kapoor, Karan Singh Grover, Akshay Oberoi, Sanjeeda Sheikh, among others in key roles.

Also Read: Siddharth Anand shares how he convinced Deepika Padukone and Hrithik Roshan to showcase their abs in Fighter; says, “It stems from the confidence that they have”

Vaani Kapoor leads 'Naari Ko Samarpit’ Campaign, ahead of 75th Republic Day Parade

India is all set to pay tribute to 'Nari Shakti' on Republic Day with the 'Naari Ko Samarpit 26th Jan' campaign builds upon the government initiatives dedicated to promoting women empowerment. Vaani Kapoor has featured in a campaign and will also be leading this campaign which celebrates initiatives like the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana for girl child to secure her future, the Ujjwala Yojana for women's safety and give smoke-free kitchen, and a healthy life to women and their families. It also gives free LPG Connection, and the Aayushman Card for universal healthcare access stands as a pillar of support for India's female citizens.

Showcasing her involvement on social media, Vaani Kapoor gave her fans a glimpse of the campaign by sharing the television commercial she shot for it. She captioned it saying, “For the first time, let us celebrate the Republic Day dedicated to women!”

 

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Vaani Kapoor (@_vaanikapoor_)

Commenting on the same, Vaani Kapoor said, “I am happy to be associated with this nationwide campaign 'Naari Ko Samarpit 26th Jan'. The Government of India has been focusing on promoting ‘Nari Shakti’ in the country. Women are the bedrock of our society and this campaign aims to recognize and celebrate the immense contribution of women. It highlights that empowering women takes the country closer to all-round progress. I believe women should be empowered so that they can realize their full potential and this initiative highlights the same.”

This 75th Republic Day will be a tribute to the achievements of women in India and the famous Republic parade will commence with a performance by 100 female musicians and two segments highlighting the contributions of women in the Army, Navy, and Air Force, as well as other military forces.

Also Read: Vaani Kapoor talks about her line-up in 2024; says, “Fortunate to be involved in 4 diverse projects in 2024!”

SCOOP: Varun Dhawan’s next with Atlee titled Baby John

Varun Dhawan had an eventful 2023 as his film Bawaal was adjudged as the most-watched OTT flick last year. Atlee, meanwhile, also rocked the show in 2023 with the Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Jawan. It was the biggest hit of the year across all languages. This year, both have joined hands for an interesting action entertainer, which also marks Atlee’s first film as a producer. All this while, the film was addressed as VD18, its working title, and as per reports, the film has got a title.

If reports are to be believed, the actioner will be called Baby John. Yesterday, the makers of the film got the Censor Certificate for its teaser from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). That’s when the word spread about its quirky and unique title. Reports also state that Baby John’s teaser will be unveiled in a few days, most probably on Saturday, January 27.

Apart from Varun Dhawan, Baby John also stars Keerthy Suresh, Wamiqa Gabbi and Jackie Shroff. It is directed by Kalees and is backed by Atlee and Priya Atlee’s A For Apple Studios, Murad Khetani’s Cine1 Studios and Jyoti Deshpande of Jio Studios. It is the remake of Atlee’s 2016 directorial Theri, starring Vijay, Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Amy Jackson.

The film went on floors in August last year in Mumbai, followed by an extensive schedule in Kochi. As per reports, Varun suffered an injury in the Mumbai schedule. The casting is significant as Varun will be seen in an out-and-out massy action role for the first time. Meanwhile, Keerthy Suresh is a popular name even for Hindi-speaking markets and this marks her debut Bollywood film. Wamiqa Gabbi, on the other hand, went on a high in 2023 with the success of her web show Jubilee and her web film, Khufiya.

It now remains to be seen when Baby John will be released in cinemas and whether the release date will be unveiled in the teaser.

Also Read: VD 18: Varun Dhawan, Keerthy Suresh, Wamiqa Gabbi attend mahurat puja of Atlee – Kalees film, watch

EXCLUSIVE: Nehha Pendse on May I Come In Madam? going off air, “Don’t know what went wrong”

Actress Nehha Pendse was recently seen in the second season of the sitcom May I Come In Madam? on Star Bharat. It also starred Sandeep Anand, Sapna Sikarwar and Anup Upadhyay in pivotal roles. The show recently went off air due to some reasons. In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, Nehha spoke about the show going off air, her stint in the highly acclaimed Marathi film June as an actress and producer and her career, which includes her work as a child artiste in shows like Hasratein.

You recently had the second season of May I Come In Madam

We recently went off air. And the response was good in all honesty. I don’t know exactly what went wrong because the channel was also happy with the second season. But I guess they just have certain policies and things and we had to go off air. But it happened in a very friendly and amicable manner. I, obviously, felt bad that we went off air but then, that’s life.

You have done movies as well as television. Which medium are you more comfortable with?

I am comfortable in both the mediums. But obviously, when you are doing television, you have to let go of a lot of nuances. It’s like a mill and you just have to keep on delivering. That’s not the case with films. Films are a short-term commitment. There is a lot more nuance; performances and everything is nuanced. So that all you miss out when you are doing television but that’s the nature of the medium and you have to respect it.

You started off as a child artiste. I remember seeing you in the popular TV serial Hasratein in the 1990s. What do you feel when you think of those days?

It was a different era altogether, if I have to be honest with you. I think that was an era where a lot of importance was given to the nuances of the medium because we were not telecasting daily. We were telecasting weekly. The makers had all the time in the world to give quality content. But ever since the trend changed and we came down to daily consumption, all that went out of the window.

Now the consumer pattern is such that they don’t mind a compromised content which they want to see every day. So ultimately, we deliver what the consumer wants. They don’t want to wait for an entire week to see what happens in their favourite show. I think the nature now is more addictive where every single day at a single point and time they want to sit in front of the television and watch the show. So, that has its own ups and downs. It gives you a great power. I think television actors are now more powerful in terms of their popularity, which was not the case before. But the content has really taken a hit.

Your Marathi film June has been appreciated a lot. It also won you a Filmfare Award and the Best Actress award at the Pune International Film Festival (PIFF)

I have done a lot of commercial work in my life. I have a lot of work in my life as an actor. But I have received very few projects where I can prove the power of my craft. So, commercial projects don’t give you the opportunity to showcase your craft. June gave me the opportunity to showcase my talent as an actor and for people to see me in a different light. And it was my first film that got me a Filmfare (Award). It’s not easy to win a Filmfare. In that sense, that film did put me on the mark.

You also turned producer with June. Producing can be different challenge altogether. How was your experience as a producer?

Producing is a different ball game altogether. I feel an actor’s job is the easiest job in the field of entertainment because you are absolutely at the fag end of responsibility. You are only responsible for your performance. Everything is very centralized. When you are producing, you are a part of the project from day 1 to taking care of 10 departments at one time. It’s a very taxing and difficult responsibility, but I had collaborated with very some really great people, who made my journey extremely simple as a producer.

What is your take on the current situation of the Marathi film industry?

We have had some really successful films in Marathi. Things are looking very good. We had Jhimma 1 and 2. We have few more films that did very well. Things are looking very bright. 2022 was a very dull year for Marathi industry while 2023 was very good for Marathi and Hindi cinema. We had some really good blockbusters. Of course, ups and downs happen in every industry.

Also Read: Bigg Boss 17: Vicky Jain gets eliminated; Ankita Lokhande breaks down over her husband’s exit

Bigg Boss 17: Vicky Jain gets eliminated; Ankita Lokhande breaks down over her husband’s exit

Bigg Boss 17, which made news this year for marital conflicts, love triangle, and fake relationships, is nearing its finale. Just a day ago, we had reported that after the six finalists were selected for the show, housemaster is all set to play his ace card by voting out another contestant, using his rule of favouritism which was an integral concept in this season. Using the same, it was Vicky Jain, whose conflicts with wife Ankita Lokhande dominated the news, who got eliminated from the house.

Abhishek Kumar, Mannara Chopra, and Munawar Faruqui became the first three contestants to reach the finale whereas Arun Mashetty, Ankita Lokhande, and Vicky Jain were asked to pick chits wherein one of them had ‘evicted’ written on it. Followed by the decision Ankita broke down. The actress was seen crying and expressing her angst as she refused to let her husband go. She said, “Mere liye tu hi winner hai. Tu bahot accha khela. Mujhe farak nahi parta tujhe votes kam aye. Meri nazar me tu winner hai mera kyuki tune sanch me bohot acha khela, bohot mehnat se khela. Tu yaha bina kisi platform ke aya. Tune jo bana hai yaha ake bana hai. (For me, you’re the winner. You played really well. I don’t care if you have got less votes. You came here without any support. Whatever you made, you made it here) I am proud to be your wife. Main Vicky Jain ki biwi hoon. Please mat jao mai nahi reh paungi. (Now I can say, I am Vicky Jain’s wife. Please don’t got, I won’t be able to live).”

#VickyJain Came to the show as Ankita's husband leaving the show as Vicky Bhaiya ????

You've been talked about by everyone from day one. You've earned respect n the title mastermind Ur #VickyKeWarriors are super proud of you #VickyBhaiya

WELL PLAYED VICKY BHAIYA pic.twitter.com/zuSkGZnqdU — ???????????????????????????????????? (@RaimaShah6) January 23, 2024

On the other hand, Vicky assured her that it is just a matter of few days and requested Munawar Faruqui to take care of Ankita. Responding to Vicky, he and Mannara Chopra revealed that they would play the game for another two months if Vicky had lasted in the show. On the other hand, they also congratulated Arun Mashetty as he joined the list of top five contestants of Bigg Boss 17.

Also Read: Bigg Boss 17: Abhishek Kumar reacts to a question asking him the reason he reacted to comments on his own health when he made fun of Khanzaadi for the same; says, “Usne mujhe jhoot bola tha”

Bade Miyan Chote Miyan teaser: Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff’s MASSIEST film to date; grand action and ‘Hindustan’ dialogue will generate mass HYSTERIA in cinemas

Both Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff had an underwhelming 2022 and 2023. But looks like they’ll have a rocking 2024 if the teaser of Bade Miyan Chote Miyan is anything to go by. The 1 minute 41-second-long promo packs in a lot and yet, keeps a lot of aspects of the film under wraps.

The first half of the teaser introduces the menacing villain, played by Prithviraj Sukumaran. Interestingly, his face isn’t shown and his voice and actions do the talking. The antagonist has an AI connection and that adds to the madness. And then our heroes are introduced and that takes the teaser to another level.

Both Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff are bona fide action stars. Hence, it looks quite convincing to see them doing death-defying stunts. Both also mouth a massy dialogue involving ‘Hindustan’. In cinemas, it’ll be greeted with claps and whistles for sure. In fact, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan seems to be their massiest film to date.

The credit for this slick Bade Miyan Chote Miyan teaser should also go to the makers. Director Ali Abbas Zafar deserves brownie points as he proves that he’s one of the best directors today when it comes to action films. There’s no doubt that he knows the genre well and his sharp talent is visible from start to finish. No wonder that until one point, he was the only filmmaker, besides Rajkumar Hirani, to have had two Rs. 300 crore grossers in his filmography. Bade Miyan Chote Miyan can be his third giant success, provided the content clicks.

Lastly, the producers Vashu Bhagnani and Jackky Bhagnani, too, deserve credit. They have mounted the film on a huge scale. They have gone all out to ensure the audience gets to see a grand action entertainer on the big screen. Technically, too, the film looks rich. Be it cinematography, VFX, production design or VFX, everything seems top-class.

Bade Miyan Chote Miyan releases on Eid 2024. Here’s hoping the songs and trailer also land well. Once that happens, nothing can stop this action entertainer from taking a huge start and emerging as Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff’s highest-ever opener.

Also Read: Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff confirm Bade Miyan Chote Miyan teaser release on January 24; see new poster

BREAKING! Animal to release on Netflix on January 26 with theatrical cut; no new scenes added

Amid the legal disputes between producers Bhushan Kumar of T-Series and Murad Khetani of Cine1 Studios over profit sharing for the Ranbir Kapoor-starrer action drama Animal, Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learned that the film's streaming premiere on Netflix India will proceed as planned on January 26, 2024.

This news comes as a relief to fans eagerly awaiting the digital release of the film, which hit theaters on December 1, 2023. Notably, the streaming version of Animal will remain identical to the theatrical release, with no additional scenes added.

The controversy stems from a disagreement between T-Series and Cine1 regarding their financial split for the film. Cine1 claims T-Series failed to uphold their prior agreement, while T-Series argues Cine1 relinquished their rights in 2022. This legal battle had fueled speculation that Animal's streaming debut might be delayed, causing concern among viewers.

As reported by Bar N Bench on Monday, January 22, the lawyers representing both studios informed the Delhi High Court that “they have reached an agreement to resolve their issues. This means a settlement has been officially signed and will be presented to the court for approval.” With the settlement in place, the hurdles for Animal arriving on OTT have been removed.

Coming back to the film, besides Ranbir, it also stars Rashmika Mandanna, Anil Kapoor and Bobby Deol. The film was released on December 1.

Also Read: Bhushan Kumar’s T-Series and Murad Khetani’s Cine1 Studios settle Animal profit sharing dispute out of court: Reports

EXCLUSIVE: Saif Ali Khan to be discharged today following triceps surgery

Actor Saif Ali Khan, who was recently hospitalized for triceps surgery, will be discharged today, January 22. The surgery went well on Monday and his wife, Kareena Kapoor Khan was beside him. The actor will be discharged on Tuesday from Kokilaben Hospital in Mumbai and will be taking a rest before he returns to the sets of his next project.

The initial reports suggested that there was a problem with Saif Ali Khan's knee and that he might need surgery. In an official statement, Khan mentioned, "This injury and the surgery are just a result of the wear and tear from our work. I'm grateful to have skilled doctors taking care of me, and I appreciate everyone's love and concern.”

On the work front, Saif Ali Khan has some exciting new projects coming up. One of them is a movie called Devara Part 1, where he'll be starring with Jr. NTR and Janhvi Kapoor. The film will be released in two parts, with the first one arriving in theatres on April 5 this year. ALSO READ: Saif Ali Khan undergoes a tricep surgery at Kokilaben Hospital

Bhushan Kumar’s T-Series and Murad Khetani’s Cine1 Studios settle Animal profit sharing dispute out of court: Reports

Amid the feud between Bhushan Kumar’s T-Series and Murad Khetani’s Cine1 Studios related to profit sharing of Ranbir Kapoor starrer Animal, now, it is reported that the studios have settled out of court. For unversed, Cine1 was upset with T-Series for not following their agreement regarding the movie Animal. T-Series argued that Cine1 had already given up their rights in a 2022 agreement. The case was taken to court which may have affected the film's release on a digital platform, Netflix India.

As reported by Bar N Bench on Monday, January 22, the lawyers representing both studios informed the Delhi High Court that “they have reached an agreement to resolve their issues. This means a settlement has been officially signed and will be presented to the court for approval.” With the settlement in place, the hurdles for Animal arriving on OTT have been removed.

On Monday, Justice Sanjeev Narula acknowledged the agreement between the studios and instructed both parties “to officially document the agreement. The court will review and address the matter on January 24, with the expectation of bringing it to a conclusion at that time.”

As per an earlier report in ANI, Cine1 accused T-Series of breaking their contract, claiming that the latter did not consult them for promotions like teasers, credits, marketing, and disclosing final costs. The studio also alleged that T-Series didn't share details about agreements with Netflix India and Sony Pictures Networks India.

T-Series, represented by Senior Advocate Amit Sibal, responded, claiming that in an August 2022 amendment agreement, Cine1 gave up all rights to the movie for Rs 2.6 crores.

The court, led by Justice Sanjeev Narula, accepted the case and summoned both parties. They were asked to submit written statements and affidavits, after which, the case was set to proceed with evidence marking on March 15 with additional arguments scheduled for January 22. ALSO READ: Delhi HC summons T-Series and Netflix India in Animal OTT release dispute: Report

Sara Ali Khan starrer Ae Watan Mere Watan to release on March 22: Report

The digital arm of Karan Johar's Dharma Productions, Dharmatic Entertainment, is all set to kick off the cinematic year with the release of Sara Ali Khan’s Ae Watan Mere Watan. As per the latest buzz, the much-anticipated period drama is scheduled to premiere in March this year during Holi weekend. 

If a report by PeepingMoon is something to go by then the Sara Ali Khan starrer will start streaming on Amazon Prime Video from March 22 onwards. For the unversed, Ae Watan Mere Watan is based on a true story. It unfolds the compelling tale of Usha Mehta, a young girl whose pivotal role in the freedom fight for Indian independence is vividly portrayed. 

The lead role is essayed by Sara Ali Khan, marking her debut in the biographical genre. Directed by Kannan Iyer from the script penned by Darab Farooqui, the film features a stellar cast including Sparsh Srivastava, Anand Tiwari, Benedict Garrett, Alexx O’Nell, and Abhay Verma.

The report also stated that the makers have strategically chosen International Women’s Day, March 8, to unveil the much-anticipated trailer. 

Having said that, it is worth mentioning here that Ae Watan Mere Watan is the first of five projects slated for release by Dharmatic Entertainment in 2024. Alongside the biographical drama, the studio has an impressive lineup including three new web series and the third season of the popular Netflix show, Fabulous Lives of Bollywood Wives.

However, the official announcement of the same is yet to be made. 

Also Read: Sara Ali Khan turns brand ambassador for the sanitary napkin brand Sofy

Aamir Khan starrer Sitare Zameen Par goes on floors on February 2; Lahore 1947 starring Sunny Deol on February 14: Report

In February 2024, Aamir Khan is poised to juggle acting and production endeavours. The actor is slated to headline Sitare Zameen Par, the Hindi remake of the Spanish film Campeones, directed by RS Prasanna. Simultaneously, Khan is steering the production of Lahore 1947, a historical venture featuring Sunny Deol and helmed by the esteemed Rajkumar Santoshi.

Sitare Zameen Par goes on floors on February 2. According to a report in Pinkvilla, a source revealed, “Aamir has been in the prep mode for Sitaare Zameen Par over the last few months and is all set to take the film on floors from February 2. He has finally zeroed down on his look for the film and has done several reading sessions with the ensemble cast. It’s going to be a marathon schedule for Sitaare Zameen Par and the actor has allotted 70 to 80 working days on the film. With a lot of time invested in pre-production, this would be among the fastest films that Aamir would deliver to the audience.”

In the upcoming Hindi remake set in Punjab, Aamir Khan takes on the role of a headstrong minor league basketball coach sentenced to community service. Tasked with coaching a Special Olympics team comprising individuals with diverse learning disabilities, Khan's character undergoes a transformative journey. The adaptation, crafted by RS Prasanna, intricately weaves the essence of Indian sensibilities into the narrative, drawing inspiration from real stories of developmentally challenged players. An adaptation of the Spanish film Campeones, this sports comedy-drama promises a nuanced portrayal of compassion, growth, and the unifying power of sports in a diverse and heartwarming cultural context.

Aamir Khan is also producing Lahore 1947 produced under his banner Aamir Khan Productions. The film is being headlined by Sunny Deol, and directed by Rajkumar Santoshi. Santoshi and Sunny have previously delivered three box office hits together in the form of Ghayal, Damini, and Ghatak. It also marks the reunion of Aamir Khan and Santoshi after their iconic cult classic, Andaz Apna Apna. The report states that the film will go on floors on February 12, 2024.

A source told the portal, “Lahore: 1947 is a partition drama by Rajkumar Santoshi with Sunny Deol in the lead. The film goes on floors on February 12, 2024. The set work has already begun in Mumbai to recreate the era gone by. Multiple big sets to recreate India around the partition era are being put up.” ALSO READ: Ira Khan playfully exposes Aamir’s fake tears during the wedding; see pic

Akshay Kumar – Tiger Shroff skip Ram Mandir consecration amid Jordan schedule of Bade Miyan Chote Miyan; send video message: “Ram Lalla will be in his beautiful home in Ayodhya”

Earlier in the morning on January 22, Bollywood celebrities began to leave for Ayodhya on January 22 to attend the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla. Several biggies were seen at Mumbai's private airport in the wee hours. While many have been invited to the ceremony, actors Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff won’t be able to the grand event in Ayodhya due to the Jordan schedule of Bade Miyan Chote Miyan.

On Monday morning, Akshay Kumar dropped a video along with Tiger Shroff from Jordan's schedule. He captioned the video, “Many best wishes to all of you on the auspicious day of Shri Ram's Pran Pratishtha. Jai Shri Ram.”

श्री राम की प्राण प्रतिष्ठा के पावन दिन पर आप सब को अनेक शुभकामनाएँ। ???? जय श्री राम pic.twitter.com/B0RKViuvEn — Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) January 22, 2024

In the video, he said, “Namaskar! Main hoon Akshay Kumar aur mere saath hai mere mitra Tiger Shroff. Aur hum dono ki taraf se aap sabko ‘Jai Shri Ram.’ Aaj ka din puri duniya mein base Ram bhakton ke liye bahut bahut bahut bada din hai. Kayi sau saalon ki pratiksha ke baad yeh din aaya hai ki Ram Lalla apne ghar Ayodhya mein apne bhavya mandir mein aa rahe hain (From me and my friend Tiger Shroff's side – Hail Shri Ram. Today is a big day for devotees of Lord Ram. After the wait of hundreds of years, the day has come, when Ram Lalla will be in his beautiful home in Ayodhya).”

Tiger Shroff said in Hindi, "Hum sabne bachpan se itna kuch suna hai par iss din ko hote huyi dekh pana aur jee pana, bahut badi baat hai. Hum wait kar rahe hai uss ghadi ki jab hum deep jala ke Shri Ram ka utsav manayenge (We have heard so much about this (Ayodhya Ram Mandir consecration) since our childhood. But to see this day come true is a very big deal. And we are waiting for the moment we can all light diyas (lamps) and celebrate the festival of Lord Ram).”

Akshay concluded, “From both our sides, we would like to wish you all on this auspicious day. Jai Shri Ram.”

The consecration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya will be happening today January 22 with Prime Minister Narendra Modi participating in the Pran Pratishtha ceremony. As per a report in The Hindu, an array of selected 506 influential figures, spanning politicians, industrialists, film stars, and more have received invitations. Following the ceremony, PM Modi will address the attendees.

Meanwhile, Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff are in Jordan for three song sequences shoot. The film Bade Miyan Chote Miyan also stars Prithviraj Sukumaran, adding another layer of intensity to this rollercoaster ride of emotions. Vashu Bhagnani and Pooja Entertainment present Bade Miyan Chote Miyan in association with AAZ films. The film is written and directed by Ali Abbas Zafar, and produced by Vashu Bhagnani, Deepshikha Deshmukh, Jackky Bhagnani, Himanshu Kishan Mehra, and Ali Abbas Zafar. The film is all set to release on Eid 2024 in April. ALSO READ: Hrithik Roshan-led Fighter to have teasers of Akshay Kumar’s Bade Miyan Chote Miyan and Ajay Devgn starrer Shaitaan attached on big screen

Ajay Devgn to have a RECORD 5 releases this year; his first 3 releases in 2024 to be released within 50 days

Ajay Devgn’s Maidaan has been ready for a while but there was no news of its release. Yesterday, fans, media and trade got a pleasant surprise as it came to light that the much-awaited sports drama will finally see the light of the day. It’ll arrive in cinemas worldwide on Eid, that is, in the second week of April this year. Interestingly, Ajay Devgn had just one release in 2023 – Bholaa – but this year he will be seen in as many as 5 films, that too as a leading actor.

Ajay Devgn will open his account this year with Shaitaan. The spooky teaser poster was launched recently and the teaser is expected to be out soon. Along with Ajay Devgn, it also stars Jyotikha and R Madhavan. Directed by Vikas Bahl, this supernatural flick will release in cinemas on March 8.

This will be followed by Maidaan, a period sports flick directed by Amit Ravindernath Sharma of Badhaai Ho (2018) fame and produced by Boney Kapoor, Akash Chawla, Arunava Joy Sengupta and Zee Studios. It also stars Priyamani and Gajraj Rao and is based on the golden era of Indian football, between 1952 and 1962. Ajay plays Syed Abdul Rahim, an accomplished Indian coach in this film, which has music by A R Rahman.

Two weeks after Maidaan’s release, Ajay Devgn will again be seen on the big screen in Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha, on April 26. It marks his first collaboration with Neeraj Pandey and according to producer Shreyans Hirawat of NH Studioz, it is a romantic thriller and though it has action, it won’t be a “typical Neeraj Pandey film”. Reportedly, it is a love story that spans 19-20 years, from 2002 to 2023. Jimmy Sheirgill and Saiee Manjrekar also star in this flick. The film’s music is composed by Oscar-winning music director M M Keeravani.

In short, between March 8 and April 26 or in 50 days, Ajay Devgn will have as many as 3 theatrical releases.

And that’s not all. On Independence Day, Ajay Devgn will be seen as the popular character of Singham in Singham Again. The Rohit Shetty action entertainer has an ensemble star cast, comprising Ajay, Akshay Kumar, Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Tiger Shroff and Arjun Kapoor.

Ajay Devgn’s final release in 2024 will be Raid 2. It went on floors earlier this month and will arrive in cinemas on November 15. Vaani Kapoor plays the female lead while Riteish Deshmukh essays the antagonist. It is directed by Raj Kumar Gupta.

For a mainstream actor, having as many as 5 releases in a year is rare, especially in today’s times. In the past, however, Ajay Devgn has had more than 5 releases in a year. In his third year as an actor, that is, 1993, he had a record of 8 releases – Divyashakti, Platform, Sangram, Shaktimaan, Dil Hai Betaan, Ek Hi Raasta, Bedardi and Dhanwaan. He again was seen 8 times in a year, in the year 2005. These 8 films were Insan, Blackmail, Zameer - The Fire Within, Tango Charlie, Kaal, Main Aisa Hi Hoon, Apaharan and Shikhar. In 2003, Ajay had 7 releases – Bhoot, Qayamat, Chori Chori, Gangaajal, Parwana, Zameen and LOC Kargil.

In 2010, the talented performer was seen 6 times – Atithi Tum Kab Jaoge, Raajneeti, Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai, Aakrosh, Golmaal 3 and Toonpur Ka Superhero. It was a significant year for him as Raajneeti and Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai were huge hits and created a rage among the audiences, especially the latter. On the other hand, Golmaal 3 was his first Rs. 100 crore grosser. It remains to be now seen if Ajay Devgn yet again scores a sixer in 2024 with the aforementioned 5 films.

Also Read: Ajay Devgn starrer Maidaan to release on Eid in April 2024; faces box office clash with Bade Miyan Chote Miyan

Hrithik Roshan-led Fighter to have teasers of Akshay Kumar’s Bade Miyan Chote Miyan and Ajay Devgn starrer Shaitaan attached on big screen

With only three days left before the release of the aerial actioner Fighter starring Hrithik Roshan, Deepika Padukone and Anil Kapoor, the excitement amongst fans for Siddharth Anand’s directorial is at an all-time high. The film is set to kick off Republic Day weekend on January 25. Amidst much anticipation, two big releases of the year, Akshay Kumar – Tiger Shroff’s Bade Miyan Chote Miyan and Ajay Devgn starrer Shaitaan will have their teasers attached to Fighter in theatres.

According to a report in Pinkvilla, a source close to the producers of Bade Miyan Chote Miyan revealed, “While the teaser is not hard attached to the prints of Fighter, the producers of BMCM – Vashu and Jackky Bhagnani - have struck a deal with the national chains as also some of the single screen associations to screen the teaser before the film or in the interval.” All the PVR-INOX screens will screen 1 minute 41-second teaser across India.

Talking about Ajay Devgn’s Shaitaan, the source further said that the upcoming film is “a supernatural thriller and the makers want to reach out to a wide section of the audience with their first teaser. It’s a tight spooky cut and has some shock element too. While digital launch will take place soon, the theatrical experience for Shaitaan teaser begins from January 25.”

Bade Miyan Chote Miyan also stars Prithviraj Sukumaran, adding another layer of intensity to this rollercoaster ride of emotions. Vashu Bhagnani and Pooja Entertainment present Bade Miyan Chote Miyan in association with AAZ films. The film is written and directed by Ali Abbas Zafar, and produced by Vashu Bhagnani, Deepshikha Deshmukh, Jackky Bhagnani, Himanshu Kishan Mehra, and Ali Abbas Zafar. The film is all set to release on Eid 2024 in April.

Meanwhile, presented by Jio Studios, Devgn Films and Panorama Studios, Shaitaan is produced by Ajay Devgn, Jyoti Deshpande, Kumar Mangat Pathak and Abhishek Pathak and directed by Vikas Bahl, it is set for theatrical release on March 8, 2024. ALSO READ: Ajay Devgn starrer supernatural thriller is titled Shaitaan; cryptic voodoo dolls haunt in FIRST poster

BREAKING: CBFC censors ‘sexually suggested visuals’ in Hrithik Roshan-Deepika Padukone starrer Fighter

The first big release of the year, Fighter, is all set to release this week and the excitement is tremendous. The advance booking opened on Friday night and the ticket sales till now have been encouraging. Meanwhile, the censor process of the Hrithik Roshan-Deepika Padukone starrer was completed on time before release. Bollywood Hungama, in this exclusive article, brings to you the list of cuts faced by this aerial action thriller.

As per the cut list, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) asked for four modifications in the film. Firstly, the anti-smoking static message was asked to be mentioned in Hindi. Secondly, an abusive word was muted or replaced in two dialogues, one at 53 minutes and the other at 1 hour and 18 minutes. Thirdly, ‘sexually suggested visuals’ were removed. These 8 seconds of visuals were probably replaced by ‘suitable shots’. Lastly, 25 seconds of the audio in a TV news visual scene was removed and replaced with 23 seconds of audio.

After these changes were carried out, a U/A certificate was granted to the makers of Fighter on Friday, January 19. The length of the film, as mentioned on the censor certificate, is 166 minutes. In other words, the run time of Fighter is 2 hours and 46 minutes. Fighter releases in cinemas worldwide on January 25.

Interestingly, this is the second consecutive film of actor Deepika Padukone and director Siddharth Anand which faced cuts from the CBFC over hot scenes. Their last film together, Pathaan, was passed by the CBFC only after the close-up shot of buttocks, 'side pose (partial nudity)' shots and visuals of sensuous dance movements during the lyrics 'Bahut tang kiya' in the song ‘Besharam Rang’ were removed or curtailed and replaced with 'suitable shots'. Even then, Bollywood Hungama was the first one to break the story and it was one of the biggest viral news of the year 2023.

Also Read: Fighter: Advance bookings of Hrithik Roshan, Deepika Padukone starrer kick starts on January 20

Rashmika Mandanna expresses gratitude towards Delhi Police after they arrest the deepfake case accused

In November 2023, Rashmika Mandanna, who was one of the first victims of deepfake video, had taken to social media to express her shock and requested the authorities to take proper action against such cyber-crimes. The police officials, who were investigating the matter, after an FIR was lodged against the perpetuator under multiple charges of forgery, identity theft, etc., they finally made an arrest on January 20.

Just a day ago, we had reported that the Delhi Police had arrested the accused man from Andhra Pradesh. Owing to the same, Rashmika Mandanna took to social media to express her gratitude towards the officials in a heartfelt note. She posted it on her Instagram story and it read, “Expressing my heartfelt gratitude to @delhi.police_official (folded hands emoji) Thank you for apprehending those responsible. Feeling truly grateful for the community that embraces me with love, support, and shields me (indian flag).”

Readers would be aware that the actress’ response on social media had sparked a debate about stringent actions being taken against cyber-crimes. In fact, many of her co-actors and industry friends had come in support of Mandanna and had asserted the need to impose better guidelines in such cases. In her post, the Animal actress also urged other people to take action if they are a victim of such cyber-crimes as she added, “Girls and boys - if your image is used or morphed anywhere without your consent. It is wrong! And I hope this is a reminder that you are surrounded by people who will support you and action will be taken! (white heart emoji)”.

For the unversed, about two months ago, a video featuring Rashmika Mandanna entering a lift in a black low-cut top was doing the rounds on social media wherein it was later revealed that the video belonged to an Indian-British influencer Zara Patel.

Also Read: Rashmika Mandanna deepfake video case: Delhi Police arrests the accused

Article 370 Teaser: Yami Gautam starrer gives us a glimpse into the violence and terrorism in Kashmir

Jio Studios and B62 Studios created a stir with the release of the pulse-pounding teaser of their upcoming action-packed political drama, Article 370. After the makers unveiled the gritty poster featuring Yami Gautam in the role of an agent, they have now dropped the teaser of this adrenaline pumping patriotic entertainer. Directed by National Award-winning Aditya Suhas Jambhale, Article 370 is poised to deliver an intense narrative, edge-of-the-seat experience with some powerhouse performances. The film, headlined by Yami will also feature Priyamani in a pivotal role.

Set against the intriguing backdrop of Article 370, the teaser offers a nerve-racking glimpse into the confidential chain of events and the incredible circumstances that led to an unprecedented and historic outcome of rendering the Article 370 ineffective. Talking about Article 370 Yami Gautam said, “Article 370 is a bold chapter of India’s history. A political-action-drama inspired by true events, which will show an in-depth portrayal of how intelligence and politics work hand in hand to take some of the most important decisions that change the course for a nation. I am hopeful that the audience will enjoy this genre-defining film. Personally, for me as an actor, this film gave me the opportunity to delve into newer depths of complexities and once again gave me a role that hasn’t been treaded before.”

Director Aditya Suhas Jambhale added, “Being the director of a film which covers such an important chapter of our Indian history is an experience in itself. This movie perfectly balances politics with action, in a never-before-seen way. Largely shot in Kashmir and Delhi, this film gives a glimpse into the incredible story of rendering Article 370 ineffective. I firmly believe that the audience will feel the story's impact on the same level as we did during its creation.”

 

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From Jio Studios and the maker of Uri: The Surgical Strike, Article 370 is produced by Jyoti Deshpande, Aditya Dhar and Lokesh Dhar, and it is slated to release in cinemas worldwide on February 23.

Also Read: FIRST LOOK: Yami Gautam features in an action-packed avatar in Article 370; teaser to unveil on January 20

Khushalii Kumar starrer Starfish drops on Netflix

After releasing in cinemas, Khushalii Kumar starrer Starfish has taken a shift from the big screen to the small screen, on OTT. The makers have locked a deal with the popular streaming giant Netflix for this recently released entertainer which premiered on the platform on January 19. So, in case you missed the film in the theatres, you can catch this romantic drama which promises to take on an emotional and thrilling ride.

Talking about her film premiering on Netflix, Khushalii Kumar shared her excitement stating, "I am genuinely thrilled about our association with Netflix for Starfish. The film deserves to be seen by a much larger audience. Starfish delves into nuanced storytelling that viewers shouldn't miss. I’m sure whoever hasn’t watched it yet would love to see it now that’s it available anytime anywhere."

The streaming platform took to social media to make this announcement and added a poster of the film along with a caption that read, “What you know is a drop! Tara's world hides an OCEAN of secrets beneath (wave emoji) Dive into the quest of finding the truth with Starfish, streaming only on Netflix!”

What you know is a drop! Tara's world hides an OCEAN of secrets beneath ???? Dive into the quest of finding the truth with Starfish, streaming only on Netflix! pic.twitter.com/yTZA4wRgy1 — Netflix India (@NetflixIndia) January 19, 2024

Starfish is a T-series production that unveils Khushalii Kumar in an unseen and nuanced avatar. Ahead of the release of the film, Khushalii had opened up about the extensive prep and intense training she had to undergo to play this role. The film also stars Milind Soman, Ehan Bhat, Tusharr Khanna in key roles. An underwater saga, Starfish promises to be an emotional rollercoaster, captivating audiences with its unique storyline. Directed by Akhilesh Jaiswal, the film released in theatres on November 24.

Also Read: Bollywood beauties Kriti Sanon, Khushali Kumar, and Tripti Dimri steal the spotlight, embracing the shimmer trend

FIRST LOOK: Yami Gautam features in an action-packed avatar in Article 370; teaser to unveil on January 20

Leading content studio Jio Studios and B62 Studios join forces to present Article 370, a gripping and intense political drama featuring Yami Gautam in an intense avatar. Directed by two-time National Award-winner Aditya Suhas Jambhale, Article 370 is a high-octane, action political drama, that revolves around the takedown of terrorism in Kashmir by rendering Article 370 ineffective.

Announcing the release of the film’s teaser on January 20, the makers dropped a thrilling poster that features Yami Gautam in an electrifying avatar of an intelligence agent. “Article 370 is a genre-defining film that marries action and politics in a never-before-seen manner. The stirring narrative is inspired by true events of the historic decision taken by the Indian Government, demonstrating their political deft,” reveals a source.

 

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Last year in November, without divulging much details about the film, Yami had posted about shooting for this action drama in Kashmir as she had expressed gratitude towards the security and authorities as well as her own team who were helpful to her during the shoot of the film. In the same post, she had also teased the audiences about announcing the film soon as she had written, “Wrapped up one of the most important films of my career! Thank you to the entire Direction, Production team and our wonderful crew at #B62Studios. Thank you to the local people, security forces and authorities in Kashmir who took such brilliant care of us throughout the schedule. Thank you to the entire staff of The Lalit Grand Palace Srinagar for making us feel like home. Also had the great fortune of taking blessings of the divine Mata Kheer Bhawani at Tulmulla. Hope we are able to entertain our audience to the fullest with this mammoth of a film. Announcement soon”.

 

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From Jio Studios and the maker of Uri: The Surgical Strike, comes Article 370, a pulsating action political drama which is by Jyoti Deshpande, Yami’s husband Aditya Dhar and Lokesh Dhar. The film is slated to release in cinemas worldwide on February 23, 2024.

Also Read: 5 Years of URI – The Surgical Strike: Yami Gautam calls Vicky Kaushal starrer modern-day cinematic version of Indian army; says she is “forever grateful” to Aditya Dhar

Dashmi release postponed due to certification issue, CONFIRMS Vardhan Puri

Vardhan Puri is eagerly anticipating the release of his highly-anticipated movie Dashmi, which not only draws strong references from the epic Ramayan but also delves into Indian culture and history. Interestingly, the ensemble cast movie, originally scheduled for release in cinemas this Friday (19th January), in the week of the inauguration of the grand Ram temple in Ayodhya, has now been postponed to a later date.

Shedding light on the matter, Vardhan Puri informs, “On behalf of the film’s director Shantanu Anant Tambe, all the actors, and the technical crew, I would like to confirm that the release date of Dashmi has been postponed due to a certification issue. At the moment, we are not allowed to comment on anything, but the new release date of the film will be officially announced once we all have more information.”

Expressing gratitude to the audience and especially to the Animal star Bobby Deol, who attended the special screening of the film recently, Vardhan adds, “The audience has been very kind and supportive, showering the film and all of us with so much love. We genuinely appreciate that and express our full gratitude. I am extremely grateful to my dear Bobby sir for honoring us with his gracious presence at the special screening of Dashmi and giving us his best wishes and love. Apart from being a phenomenal actor, he is one of the nicest human beings I have ever come across in my life. He always makes me very emotional with his warm hugs.”

Also Read: Unveiling ‘Dashmi’ Trailer: A cinematic confrontation against the menace of contemporary rapes in society!

BREAKING: PVR Inox cinemas to screen Ayodhya Ram Temple inauguration live on January 22

The inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22 is going to be one of the most significant events in India post-independence. As a result, it has grabbed the headlines for weeks for multiple reasons. Bollywood Hungama has been the first one to inform readers about the various celebrities who have been invited to grace the historic occasion. Earlier today, we also broke the news that many cinema halls will be screening Ramanand Sagar’s epic TV show 'Ramayan' on January 22. And now, we bring to you another breaking news in this regard.

Bollywood Hungama has learned that several theatres of PVR Inox will live-stream the inauguration of the Ram Temple on January 22. A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Over the last few years, multiplexes have aired exciting cricket and football matches. These screenings have got a good response. The Ram Temple inauguration will also be screened live to the audience. The moviegoers will get a chance to witness history, that too, on the big screen with a great sound system. Looking at the enthusiasm for this event and also that most offices will be shut until the afternoon, the PVR Inox team expects a huge turnout.”

An industry insider commented, “This works well for the theatres since this week is dry. In fact, PVR Inox properties are even showing old classics this week as they have space. But showing the Ram Mandir ceremony live is a smart idea. Anyway, the footfalls in cinemas on January 22 morning will be very low as the whole country will be glued to watching the ceremony live in their homes. The screening will give a chance to the aam junta to watch it on a grand scale. The multiplexes will also benefit as they’ll have healthy ticket sales.”

The advance booking for the Ram Temple inauguration event is expected to begin soon. Another source also informed us that every moviegoer would get popcorn free with every ticket.

Meanwhile PVR Inox theatres, at present, are showing timeless films in select theatres as part of the Nostalgia Film Festival like Agneepath (2012), Chak De India (2007), Dil To Pagal Hai (1997), Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995), Om Shanti Om (2007) and Saathiya (2002). Moreover, Mumbai-centric films like Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi (1958), Dhobi Ghat (2011), Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro (1983), Joram (2023), Life In A Metro (2007), Mumbai Meri Jaan (2008) and Wake Up Sid (2009), too, are being shown. Secondly, between January 19 and 21, as part of National Popcorn Day celebrations, moviegoers can refill their salted popcorn tubs unlimited times.

Also Read: MEGA EXCLUSIVE: Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Prabhas, Yash, Tiger Shroff, Ajay Devgn, Sunny Deol, Ayushmann Khurrana invited to Ayodhya Ram Temple inauguration ceremony

Siddharth Anand indirectly responds to Pakistani actress Hania Aamir after she criticizes Fighter trailer for spreading hate

Fighter, the upcoming aerial action film directed by Siddharth Anand, renowned for his work in Pathaan and War, recently unveiled the trailer of the movie. The film, featuring Hrithik Roshan, Deepika Padukone, and Anil Kapoor, promises a thrilling blend of heart-pounding action and a patriotic narrative. The film showcases the aftermath of the tragic 2019 Pulwama attack. While many praised the grandeur of the movie and the nationalism attached to it, many have criticized it for its jingoism. Amidst the mixed reactions from the audiences, Pakistani celebrities have also come out to criticize the trailer. Amongst them was Hania Aamir, who is known to be a big fan of Bollywood movies, and seemingly called out the movie for spreading hate. Following her message on Instagram, Siddharth Anand responded to it.

On January 16, Pakistani actress Hania Aamir took to her Instagram story to call out the film for 'feeding the riff between the two countries' through movies. She wrote, “So sad and unfortunate to know that there are artists out there in this day and age who are aware of the power that the cinema holds and still go ahead and feed the riff between the two countries. I feel sorry for the artists who try to bridge the gap by trusting their art as a medium.”

Siddharth Anand responded with an ‘Oh!’ when someone wrote, “Was 'art' breathing here @realhaniahehe??” The reaction was to certain comments which claimed that Parwaaz Hai Junoon was anti-India movie. However, others claimed that Hania’s 2018 movie never mentions India in the movie. Many criticized a particular moment where Hrithik’s Patty fights the terrorist as he says, “POK ka matlab hai Pakistan Occupied Kashmir. Tumne occupy kiya hai. Maalik hum hain. Tujh jaise terrorist ke wajah se hum badtameezi pe utar aaye, toh tumhara har mohallah IOP ban jayega,” as he adds, “India Occupied Pakistan” and he brutally punches the terrorist.

In another post, he left a ‘curious’ emoji as a reply to a netizen who claimed on X, formerly Twitter, that Hania’s Parwaaz Hai Junoon was anti-India. The netizen wrote, “Didn't she literally work in a movie which was anti india lol if indians celebs have no issue with the anti-india stuff pak celebs do in movies and in reality why do pak celebs care so much.”

Well, Hania Aamir isn’t the only one who slammed the Fighter trailer. Adnan Siddiqui, who had worked with Sridevi in 2017 Bollywood movie Mom, said, “Once celebrated for love, Bollywood now crafts hate-filled narratives, portraying us as villains. Despite our love for your films, it's disheartening. Art transcends boundaries; let's use it to promote love and peace. Two nations, victims of politics, deserve better.”

Once celebrated for love, Bollywood now crafts hate-filled narratives, portraying us as villains. Despite our love for your films, it's disheartening. Art transcends boundaries; let's use it to promote love and peace. Two nations, victims of politics, deserve better. — Adnan Siddiqui (@adnanactor) January 16, 2024

Fighter also stars Karan Singh Grover, Akshay Oberoi and Sanjeeda Sheikh, It will be available in theatres in 3D and 3D IMAX formats and is scheduled to hit theatres on the eve of India’s 75th Republic Day, January 25th, 2024. ALSO READ: Hrithik Roshan unveils the poster of Fighter’s antagonist Rishabh Sawhney: “Locking eyes with the villain”

Yash Raj Films announces the re-release of Shah Rukh Khan starrer Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Dil Toh Pagal Hai, and Chak De India

In what seems to be a unique trip down memory lane, Yash Raj Films is all set to take you on a filmy journey with the re-release of three of its biggest blockbusters starring Shah Rukh Khan. In a social media post, the production house announced the arrival of the iconic Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, mega hit Dil To Pagal Hai, and the blockbuster Chak De India at PVR and INOX Cinema chains in what is called as the Nostalgia Film Festival that kicks from January 19.

On Thursday, January 18, Yash Raj Films announced about the weekend film festival with a special post on Instagram along with a caption that read, “Relive the magic of your favourite movies on the big screen again… Nostalgia Film Festival @pvrcinemas_official @inoxmovies from 19th-22nd Jan!” Furthermore, the post also revealed that the ticket prices will be available for as low prices as Rs. 112. Although PVR and INOX chains have collaborated, the film will be releasing only in selected theatres belonging to these chains within selected cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Pune, Surat, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Kochi, among others. The list too has been shared by the production house for the ones who are reliving those memories.

 

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Speaking of the films, all the three movies have Shah Rukh Khan essaying the male lead. While Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge (1995) is an iconic romantic drama featuring the megastar with his favourite co-star Kajol. The film has managed to break all records and remains to be one of the most iconic films in the genre of romance. On the other hand, Dil To Pagal Hai (1997) which stars Madhuri Dixit and Karisma Kapoor in lead roles, is expected to be a beautifully penned romantic drama by Yash Chopra, that brings together a tale of friendship and love.  Whereas Chak De India (2007) is a sports drama that features 11 women players across the country fighting against gender biases, caste prejudices and other challenges, as they aim to make to win the World Cup in a Global Championship Match.

Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan starrer Jawan and Pathaan earn accolades in New York Magazine’s Vulture 2023 Annual Stunt Awards, along with John Wick 4 and Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning

Avika Gor starrer Bloody Ishq goes on floors

Best known for her role in the television show Balika Vadhu, Avika Gor is all set for her second Bollywood venture. The actress, who played the lead role in the fourth instalment of 1920, is all set to reunite with the Bhatt family for her second film too. Titled Bloody Ishq, it is expected to be directed by Vikram Bhatt and it is said to have gone on floors on January 17.

On Thursday, January 18, Avika Gor took to social media to share photos of the film’s clapperboard. Along with that, she also gave a glimpse of her look from the said romantic thriller wherein she is seen sporting casual attire and simple make-up but it seems that she is also sporting a jacket which gives us the impression that the film might have a winter backdrop. Apart from this, what also grabs attention is the small scar on the forehead. While she did not write much in the caption, she hashtagged Bloody Ishq and also added heart as well as fire emojis.

 

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Her post garnered much attention on social media wherein many of her fans dropped their congratulatory messages whereas others wished her good luck for the upcoming project. Earlier in a statement, Avika had expressed her happiness about her second Bollywood film as she had said, “I am thrilled about my second project with the Bhatts. Mahesh Ji is handling the writing, and Vikram Ji is directing this time. After our previous collaboration on 1920 with Krishna Bhatt directing it, working with Vikram Bhatt is even more exciting. I am eager to learn from his extensive experience in filmmaking.”

The film is also expected to star actor Vardhan Puri but further details are kept under raps.

Also Read: Avika Gor grooves to the beats of ‘Modern Jugni’; says, “I can’t wait to hear it at parties and clubs, especially during fun drives with friends”

Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya Trailer: Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon show off their crackling chemistry in this human-robot romance drama

Jio Studios and Dinesh Vijan promises audiences to present the perfect Valentine’s Day treat with Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya which is slated to release next month. The makers unveiled the trailer of the movie on January 18 and it promises to be the biggest family entertainer of the year with a sizzling romance in the centre of it. This film marks the first-time collaboration between Shahid and Kriti Sanon entwined in an ‘impossible love story’ with legendary actors, like Dharmendra and Dimple Kapadia also adding a twist to this entertaining tale.

Speaking of the trailer, it promises delightful on-screen chemistry between Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon along with offering a glimpse into the roller-coaster ride of emotions with an impossible love at the centre of it, blending it in essences of humor and relatable family moments, thus making it entertaining for all ages. Speaking of the film, Producer Dinesh Vijan’s banner Maddock Films, shared, “At Maddock Films we take pride in bringing forward unique stories with mass connect be it Hindi Medium, Stree or Luka Chuppi and this time we look forward to bringing out a family entertainer with a great combination of romance and humour perfect for the valentine week. An impossible love story that has never been told before with a never seen before exciting pairing of Shahid-Kriti adding an extra layer of charisma and freshness to the world of romance.”

 

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Directors Amit Joshi and Aradhana Sah added, “With Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, we hope to tap back into the love-genre, sprinkled with lots of comedy for a perfect family watch during the valentine week. Working with Maddock and bringing this film to life has been a fantastic experience, making this one a truly memorable project!”

Directed by Amit Joshi & Aradhana Sah, a Maddock Film’s production, Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya is produced by Dinesh Vijan, Jyoti Deshpande & Laxman Utekar. It is schedule for a release during the Valentine’s Week, that is, on February 9, 2024.

Also Read: Shahid Kapoor to woo audiences with his groovy moves in Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya

Shah Rukh Khan's power-packed Jawan dominates Filmfare nominations with 15 accolades

In Indian cinema, Shah Rukh Khan has once again proven his mettle as the ‘Badshaah of Bollywood’ with his venture, Jawan. The action-packed film directed by Atlee has not only resonated with audiences but has also garnered critical acclaim, earning an impressive 15 nominations at the upcoming Filmfare Awards. Let's delve into the diverse categories where Jawan has left an indelible mark.

Best Film (Popular) - Jawan: Jawan has been nominated for the coveted Best Film (Popular) category, a testament to its widespread appeal and success at the box office. The film's gripping narrative and Shah Rukh Khan's compelling performance have catapulted it into the limelight, making it a strong contender for this prestigious accolade.

Best Director - Atlee: Atlee's directorial finesse in Jawan has earned him a well-deserved nomination for Best Director. His ability to seamlessly blend action, drama, and emotion has played a pivotal role in the film's success, solidifying his position as a director to watch in the industry.

Best Actor in a Leading Role - Shah Rukh Khan: Shah Rukh Khan's portrayal of the lead character in Jawan has not only captured the hearts of fans but has also earned him a nomination for Best Actor in a Leading Role. Khan's charismatic screen presence and his ability to bring depth to his characters continue to set him apart in the industry.

Best Lyrics - Kumaar for 'Chaleya': The soulful and evocative lyrics of 'Chaleya' from Jawan by Kumaar have been recognized with a nomination in the Best Lyrics category. The song's emotional resonance adds a layer of depth to the film's narrative.

Best Music Album - Anirudh Ravichander: The musical brilliance of Jawan is encapsulated in its nomination for Best Music Album, with Anirudh Ravichander's soul-stirring compositions contributing significantly to the film's overall impact.

Best Playback Singer (Female) - Deepthi Suresh and Shilpa Rao: The enchanting voices of Deepthi Suresh and Shilpa Rao in 'Aararaari Raaro' and 'Chaleya’, respectively, have earned them nominations for Best Playback Singer (Female), highlighting the musical diversity and richness of the film's soundtrack.

Best Story and Best Dialogue - Atlee and Sumit Arora: The engaging narrative and impactful dialogues of Jawan have received nominations for Best Story and Best Dialogue, reflecting the collaborative efforts of director Atlee and dialogue writer Sumit Arora.

Best Cinematography - GK Vishnu: GK Vishnu's exceptional cinematography has not gone unnoticed, as Jawan secures a nomination in the Best Cinematography category. The film's visuals, capturing intense action sequences and emotional moments, stand as a testament to Vishnu's skill.

Best Production Design - T Muthuraj: T Muthuraj's contribution to the film's visual aesthetics has been acknowledged with a nomination for Best Production Design. The intricate sets and attention to detail have played a crucial role in enhancing the overall cinematic experience.

Best VFX - Red Chillies Vfx: The seamless integration of visual effects in Jawan has earned Red Chillies Vfx a nomination for Best VFX. The team's expertise in bringing the film's fantastical elements to life has been pivotal in creating a visually captivating experience.

Best Choreography - Shobi Paulraj for 'Zinda Banda': Shobi Paulraj's choreography for the energetic song 'Zinda Banda' has secured a nomination in the Best Choreography category, adding a dynamic and lively element to the film.

Best Costume Design - Shaleena Nathani, Kavitha J, Anirudh Singh, and Dipika Lal: The creative minds behind the captivating costumes in Jawan have earned a nomination for Best Costume Design, acknowledging their contribution to the film's visual appeal.

Best Editing - Ruben: The seamless and impactful editing of Jawan by Ruben has garnered a nomination in the Best Editing category. The film's pacing and rhythm owe much to the editor's skill in crafting a cohesive and engaging narrative.

Best Action - Spiro Razatos, Anl Arasu, Craig Macrae, Yannick Ben, Kecha Khamphakdee, and Sunil Rodrigues: The high-octane action sequences in Jawan have earned the film a nomination for Best Action. The coordinated efforts of the action team have contributed to the film's thrilling and adrenaline-pumping moments.

With 15 nominations at the Filmfare Awards, Jawan stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of a talented cast and crew, led by the charismatic Shah Rukh Khan and visionary director Atlee. As fans eagerly await the award ceremony, the film's nominations across diverse categories highlight its multifaceted excellence and reaffirm the enduring appeal of Shah Rukh Khan in the world of Indian cinema.

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Bhavana Pandey’s anniversary post for Chunky features young Ananya Panday; see pics

Bollywood actress Ananya Panday’s mother, Bhavana Pandey celebrated her 26th wedding anniversary with husband Chunky Panday on Wednesday, sharing heartwarming moments with her Instagram followers. She treated her Instafam to a delightful collection of old and new pictures featuring her husband and daughters Ananya and Rysa.

In the throwback pictures, Bhavana can be seen capturing sweet moments with her daughters and her husband. Accompanying the post, she wrote in caption, “It's been 26 Years! Happy Anniversary, Love you Chunky Panday.”

 

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  A post shared by Bhavana Pandey (@bhavanapandey)

As soon as she shared the post, Bhavana received warm wishes from friends in the film fraternity. Bhavana's close friend Seema Sajdeh sent her anniversary wishes, commenting, "Happy anniversary guys," while Neha Dhupia joined in, saying, "Wow! Happy happy happy anniversary you two."

Talking about Ananya Panday, she was recently seen in Siddhant Chaturvedi and Adarsh Gourav starrer Kho Gaye Hum Kahan. The actress has also been working on a cyber thriller directed by Vikramaditya Motwane. Apart from films, Ananya will be making her debut in web series with Call Me Bae that is slated to premiere on Amazon Prime Video. The show will feature her as a wealthy fashionista, who is disowned by her family after a major scandal.

Also Read: Ananya Panday opens up about the qualities she admires in rumoured boyfriend Aditya Roy Kapur; says, “He has been very patient”