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

Legendary composer and singer AR Rahman and his wife, Saira, have announced their separation after 29 years of marriage. The couple tied the knot in Chennai on March 12, 1995, and share three children—Khatija, Raheema, and Ameen.

Official Statement from Saira’s Lawyers In a statement issued on Tuesday, November 19, Saira's lawyers confirmed the decision, citing emotional strain as a key factor. "After many years of marriage, Mrs. Saira has made the difficult decision to separate from her husband, Mr. AR Rahman. This decision comes after significant emotional strain in their relationship. Despite their deep love for each other, the couple has found that the tensions and difficulties have created an insurmountable gap between them, one that neither party feels able to bridge at this time," the statement read.

The statement further added, "Mrs. Saira emphasised that she has taken this decision out of pain and agony. She requests privacy and understanding from the public during this challenging time as she navigates this difficult chapter in her life." AR Rahman’s Response AR Rahman, who has won global accolades, including an Academy Award, shared his thoughts on the separation. He expressed hope that the couple would have reached a milestone of 30 years together but acknowledged that their relationship “seems to carry an unseen end.” Rahman also thanked everyone for respecting their privacy during this sensitive time.

“We had hoped to reach the grand thirty, but all things, it seems, carry an unseen end. Even the throne of God might tremble at the weight of broken hearts. Yet, in this shattering, we seek meaning, though the pieces may not find their place again. To our friends, thank you for… — A.R.Rahman (@arrahman) November 19, 2024

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Bryan Adams discusses long-lasting career, AR Rahman, upcoming India tour: “Humbling knowing my songs have touched so many lives”

Housefull 5 team to shoot for a special song celebrating 14 years of the comedy franchise: Report

Housefull has been one of the most popular comedy franchises with the cast headlined by Akshay Kumar. Five years after the fourth instalment, the makers have announced the fifth instalment with Akshay and an ensemble cast. After the entire squad has completed a major schedule of the entertainer in Europe, the latest update on that front is that the film will feature a special track celebrating the franchise’s 14 years.

Sources have asserted that the song will be shot in an extensive manner and will be mounted on a large scale. According to these sources, considering the massive vision that Tarun Mansukhani and the production house have for the track, it will be taking as many as three days to shoot it and it is expected to happen in the vast Chitrakoot Grounds in Andheri, suburban Mumbai.

Elaborating on the same, a source revealed details to Mid-Day saying, “The track has been envisioned as a celebration of the franchise’s journey over the past 14 years. It will be larger-than-life, with expansive sets, elaborate costumes, and choreography that highlights the playful chemistry between the cast. It will be a night shoot going on from November 21 to 23.” The source also mentioned that the song will feature the entire cast including Akshay Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh, Fardeen Khan, Jacqueline Fernandez, Nargis Fakhri along with as many as 100 background dancers. Under the choreography by Remo D’Souza, the cast is said to have kicked off their rehearsals on November 19. “Tarun wanted the vibe to be classic Housefull—quirky and over-the-top, with moments in the song that will leave the audience in splits,” another source mentioned.

Apart from this, it is being said that the film will also feature another massive dance number. Coming to the film Housefull 5, directed by Tarun Mansukhani, the film will also star Dino Morea, Soundarya Sharma, Shreyas Talpade, Chitrangda Singh, Sonam Bajwa, among others.

Also Read: Fardeen Khan goes shirtless for Housefull 5; gives jaw-dropping fitness goals

Netflix announces debut of Aryan Khan as creator and director of untitled web-series; to be produced by Red Chillies Entertainment

Netflix and Red Chillies Entertainment are coming together for a special untitled Bollywood series in 2025. Produced by Gauri Khan, the series marks Aryan Khan’s debut as a creator and director. The news of this partnership and mega project was announced in Los Angeles this week at an event — hosted by Bela Bajaria, Chief Content Officer, Netflix — showcasing some of the most ambitious international titles coming to the service next year.

Set against the backdrop of the film industry, this multi-genre project promises an unabashed, entertaining ride through the adventures of a charming, ambitious outsider navigating the glitzy yet tricky world of Bollywood. The series is said to blend a high-stakes narrative with self-aware humor, featuring blockbuster cameos and larger-than-life characters for an unforgettable, tongue-in-cheek take on Indian cinema.

This upcoming Bollywood series will mark Netflix and Red Chillies Entertainment’s sixth outing together, following the hit dark comedy film Darlings, the critically acclaimed crime-drama Bhakshak, the cop-drama film Class of ’83, the zombie horror series Betaal, and the spy thriller series Bard of Blood.

Sharing his heartfelt thoughts on the announcement, Shah Rukh Khan said, “We are excited to present this new series with Netflix that offers a refreshing look into the glamorous cinematic world and what it takes to succeed as an outsider. It’s a unique narrative brought to life by Aryan, many passionate minds and the team at Red Chillies Entertainment. This one’s going to be all heart, all hustle, and a whole lot of entertainment.”

 

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Monika Shergill, VP - Content, Netflix India adds, “We’re thrilled to partner with Red Chillies Entertainment once again — this time, for a very special series, directed by Aryan Khan. Aryan brings a bold and dynamic directorial vision and has created something truly one-of-a-kind and thoroughly entertaining. It builds on our shared passion for fresh voices and quality storytelling, and we can’t wait for our members to watch it.”

Get ready for a fresh take on Bollywood, coming your way in 2025, only on Netflix.

Also Read: Riddhima Kapoor Sahni responds to trolling over calling Maheep Kapoor ‘aunty’:

Sikandar: Salman Khan and Rashmika Mandanna shoot for Eid and Holi special songs: Report

It is a known fact that Salman Khan fans are eagerly waiting to witness the grandeur of his next release, Sikandar. Packed with massy elements and featuring the quintessential ‘Bhai’ vibe, makers have asserted that the film will be a treat for Salman fans. Keeping up with the excitement surrounding the entertainer, sources close to the film have revealed a new update where they have asserted that Khan along with his leading lady Rashmika Mandanna will be shooting for two songs based on two festivals –Eid and Holi.

The fact that Sikandar features an ensemble cast and also that it marks the union of A R Murugadoss, Sajid Nadiadwala along with Salman Khan, have raised the bar of expectations among fans. Now, sources close to the film have insisted that the makers are leaving no stone unturned to keep up with these expectations and anticipation. A source told Pinkvilla said, “Sikandar is a celebration and the core idea of Salman, Sajid, and Murugadoss was to come up with an upbeat album for the Eid 2025 release. Earlier in the month, Salman Khan and Rashmika Mandanna have shot for two dance numbers set against the backdrop of Eid and Holi for Sikandar.”

The source also went on to reveal that the tracks will be of different genres wherein the Eid song will be qawwali whereas the Holi track will be a dance number but with elements of romance. “The two songs are expected to be instant chartbusters as everyone on the sets was grooving through the shoot. Salman also feels that the two compositions are among the best of Pritam. The entire Sikandar team is confident on delivering an album that’s remembered for a long time,” shared the source and went on to add, “Apart from these two dance numbers, two more songs – including a romantic number – is underworks. The remaining songs will be shot in January,”

Along with this, the source also shared brief updates about the action sequences viewers can expect in this entertainer. The source mentioned that the action in the film will have a new flavour and that Sajid Nadiadwala is pushing the envelope when it comes to the visuals of Sikandar.

Also starring Kajal Aggarwal, Prateik Babbar, and others in key roles, Sikandar marks the first onscreen venture of Salman Khan and Rashmika Mandanna together.

Also Read: Rashmika Mandanna juggles between Pushpa 2: The Rule and Sikandar shoots in double shifts in Hyderabad

EXCLUSIVE: Ranveer Brar shares recovery update after cervical spine injury: "Grateful for the love"

Renowned chef, television personality and actor Ranveer Brar has revealed details about a recent gym injury that resulted in a cervical spine fracture. Sharing an exclusive update with Bollywood Hungama, Brar expressed gratitude for the support and well-wishes he has received during his recovery period.

Speaking about the incident, Ranveer Brar shared, "It was a freak injury in the gym about three weeks ago, where I fractured my cervical spine. In these three weeks, I've made a fair amount of progress, and with another two weeks, I should be fairly recovered and nearly back to normal."

Brar, known for his culinary expertise and affable personality, emphasized how much the outpouring of love and concern has meant to him. "Much gratitude for the overwhelming love and concern that’s been pouring in. It’s very heartwarming and definitely motivates me to get up and running," he said, expressing optimism about resuming his professional commitments soon.

Fans of the celebrity chef have taken to social media to send their wishes for a speedy recovery. Brar assured his supporters that he is on the path to healing and is hopeful of being "back on track soonest."

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Ranveer Brar on release of his web show Ma Ka Sum with Mona Singh, “It’s already been shot, currently it is…”

Kangana Ranaut drops update on Emergency release date; deets inside

After much anticipation, the political drama Emergency starring Kangana Ranaut has received censor clearance and is now scheduled for a theatrical release on January 17, 2025. As readers would be aware, the film, inspired by true events, had to face a long battle of censorship considering that it revolved around a very controversial and turbulent period of emergency from the 1970s.

Taking to social media, Kangana Ranaut shared a poster from the film which also included Anupam Kher, Shreyas Talpade, Milind Soman, among others. Along with that, she shared the latest in the caption on Instagram wherein she wrote, "17th January 2025 – The epic saga of the nation’s most powerful woman and the moment that altered India’s destiny. #Emergency – Unveils Only in cinemas on 17.01.2025!"

 

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The film has Kangana Ranaut essaying the role of the former Prime Minister and the only female Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi along with Anupam Kher as politician and activist Jayaprakash Narayan, Shreyas Talpade as Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Mahima Chaudhary as Pupal Jayakar, Milind Soman as Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, among others. The film also features a powerful supporting cast, including the likes of Vishak Nair, Ashok Chabra, Richard Klein, the late Satish Kaushik, among others. Each actor plays a pivotal role in bringing the nuanced political and personal dynamics of the era to the screen.

Written, directed, and headlined by Kangana Ranaut, Emergency portrays the life and times of India’s first female Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi. Set during the Emergency period between 1975 to 1977, the film promises to offer a gripping exploration of one of the most pivotal and most spoken about chapters in Indian democracy. Produced by Zee Studios, Manikarnika Films and Renu Pitti, Emergency’s musical score is composed by Sanchit Balhara and G.V. Prakash Kumar, with dialogues and screenplay penned by Ritesh Shah.

Also Read: Kangana Ranaut congratulates Donald Trump; blames Hollywood celebrities for Kamala Harris’s 2024 election defeat

EXCLUSIVE: Rakesh Roshan reveals Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan stayed in 15x15 rooms during Karan Arjun shoot; recalls turning under-construction Aashram into hotel for cast

One of the most celebrated films in Indian cinema, Karan Arjun (1995), starring Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan, is gearing up for a grand re-release on November 22, 2024. Directed by Rakesh Roshan, this blockbuster will mark the biggest worldwide re-release ever for a Hindi film. In a conversation with Bollywood Hungama, Rakesh Roshan reminisced about working with the two superstars during the making of the film.

"A Simpler Time on Set": Roshan on Working with Shah Rukh and Salman When asked about the difference between working with stars then and now, Rakesh Roshan fondly recalled the simpler times of filmmaking in the 1990s.

"You won't believe it," he shared. "I made the entire film in 80-90 days. When we went for outdoor shoots, Shah Rukh’s room was 15 by 15 feet, and Salman’s was the same. Kajol and the others had similar rooms too. There was an ashram nearby, under construction. There were no hotels in that village. I gave them money and asked them to turn it into a hotel. I said, ‘Build a bathroom in every room.’ They said the rooms would become smaller, and I replied, ‘No problem. Just put an AC and a bathroom.’ Shah Rukh and Salman stayed there." “Like Waking Up Kids”: The Stars’ Morning Routine On being asked about the difference in acting styles between Shah Rukh and Salman, Roshan noted how their personalities blended seamlessly with their characters:

"When we were making the film, it never felt like acting. Shah Rukh behaved exactly like Arjun, and Salman was just like Karan. I would personally wake them up in the mornings. Many times, I would go to their rooms at 6 AM and say, ‘Shah Rukh, wake up.’ It was like waking up children. Salman, on seeing me, would pull a pillow over his face and say, ‘I’m getting ready.’ I would insist, ‘No, no, go to the bathroom and bathe.’ I wouldn’t leave their rooms until they were fully ready."

Speaking of Karan Arjun's re-releasing, Hrithik Roshan has given the voiceover for the re-release trailer. The way he passionately wrote a post on the release of Karan Arjun’s new trailer makes it clear that he’s very excited about it.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Rakesh Roshan talks about Karan Arjun; reveals that multiplexes take 65-70% share for re-releases instead of 52% share: “Hence, producers DON’T earn much. It’s done by the makers just for reputation and satisfaction…”