Lara Dutta reveals stressful days in Dubai amid Israel–Iran conflict; thanks UAE government for protection

Former beauty queen and actor Lara Dutta recently shared a long video on social media describing the tense situation in Dubai amid the ongoing escalation in the Israel–Iran conflict 2026 escalation. In the video, the actor spoke about witnessing explosions and missile interceptions while also expressing gratitude to the government of the United Arab Emirates for ensuring residents feel protected during the crisis.

Dutta revealed that she has been in Dubai since the beginning of the conflict and has spent considerable time in the city over the past few years. The actor is currently there with her daughter, while her husband, former tennis champion Mahesh Bhupathi, has been travelling for work. “We have been in Dubai since the start of this Israel-Iran war, what's being termed the Israel-Iran war. UAE, Dubai, has been my home now for the last three years. I have spent a considerable amount of time here. I was actually shooting on the 28th at a studio in Dubai,” Lara said in the video.

Recalling the moment she realised the situation had escalated, the actor described hearing explosions while she was working on set. “We started hearing the explosions overhead, ran out of the studio, and saw missiles being intercepted. It's been a few, I can't lie, stressful days. I have my daughter here with me, Mahesh was away for work, he wasn't in Dubai thankfully.” Dutta also admitted that the past few days have been unsettling, particularly with fighter jets flying overhead and loud blasts being heard across the city. Despite the tense environment, she said she has not felt unsafe.

“But I just want to say that we are nervous, and it's been scary. Lots of fighter jets flying overhead, lots of loud booms. Though we live in a villa in a very safe neighbourhood, the windows shake, the house and the doors rattle, and it's unnerving. But I haven't felt unsafe, not even once.” While speaking about the response from authorities, the actor praised the UAE government for its efforts to ensure the safety and reassurance of residents. “I just want to say that the UAE government has done an incredible job. I think, for every single person – I won't speak for anybody else – we felt really looked after. We felt wanted, we felt protected, regardless of our nationality or where we're from.”

“We feel like we count, we matter. The UAE government, as a resident, as somebody living in this city, is making sure they do everything in their power to protect us and keep us safe. I'm amazed. My gardener has been showing up every day mowing up my lawn, watering the plants,” she added. Dutta also spoke about her admiration for ordinary workers who continue their daily routines despite the tense circumstances.

 

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“I've so much respect and admiration for just ordinary, normal people who don't have a choice of looking at wanting to get out, who are keeping this country running.” At the same time, the actor revealed that she and her family are currently exploring flight options to return to Mumbai, primarily because the situation has been particularly stressful for children. “We are actually looking at flights; there aren't too many, but there are some, Etihad and Emirates. But we are looking at flights to try and get back to Mumbai. More so, because I think the kids are a lot more nervous about this. We are as well, as grown-ups. We keep it together for the kids. So we are looking at flights and trying to get out by some means.”

Reflecting on past experiences of conflict, the actor also drew parallels with her time in India during tensions between the neighbouring countries. “I was in India when India and Pakistan went to war. We saw how well our country protected us there. It's the same here.” Concluding her message, Dutta expressed hope that the conflict would de-escalate soon, emphasising that civilians should never have to live in fear because of war. “No civilian deserves to live in fear or to be caught up in a war that is destabilising the entire region. I hope common sense will prevail. Better judgment will prevail with everybody who's making these decisions. Until then. We continue.”

Also Read: Lara Dutta drops emotional tribute to Deanne Panday; praises her son Ahaan Panday in his debut film Saiyaara

BREAKING: Uday Bhai and Majnu Bhai reunite; Nana Patekar features in an exciting cameo in Anil Kapoor-starrer Subedaar

Subedaar has released today, March 5, and it has generated excitement due to lead actor Anil Kapoor’s massy performance and an exciting trailer. Viewers who would watch this film on Amazon Prime Video will be in for a surprise. This is because Nana Patekar also features in the film.

In a crucial scene in the film, Nana Patekar appears on screen all of a sudden. His presence adds to the fun and madness; in fact, if Subedaar was a theatrical film, Nana’s entry would have led to a frenzy in cinemas.

Anil Kapoor and Nana Patekar first shared screen space in Parinda (1989). Eighteen years later, they reunited in Welcome (2007) and struck gold. Nana played the unforgettable Uday Bhai, while Anil played his subordinate, Majnu Bhai. Together, their banter turned iconic and helped the film attain cult status. They came together once again in Welcome Back (2015), which remains their last on-screen collaboration to date. Ever since, fans have been demanding a full-fledged Uday Bhai-Majnu Bhai reunion, and Subedaar finally brings the duo back. It is sure to be lapped up by viewers.

Besides Anil Kapoor, Subedaar also stars Radhikka Madan, Mona Singh, Aditya Rawal, Saurabh Shukla, Faisal Malik and Kushboo Sundar in a cameo. It is directed by Suresh Trivedi of Tumhari Sulu (2017), Jalsa (2022) and Daldal (2026) fame.

Last week, a grand trailer launch was held at a restobar by the beach in Mumbai, where the whole team was present in full force. Anil said, “I shot the most difficult and crucial scene in the film amid thousands of bystanders. They were shouting 'Jhakaas' and 'Aye jee o jee'! However, I switched off the noise. I focused on my scene. If you want something from the bottom of your heart, you'll be able to achieve it.”

Also Read: Anil Kapoor brings back his swagger in ‘Balam Subedaar’ in Prime Video’s Subedaar, watch

EXCLUSIVE: Ekta Kapoor vs Raaj Shaandilyaa legal fight halts shoot of Akshay Kumar’s Bhagam Bhag 2; March schedule shelved

Akshay Kumar, Manoj Bajpayee and Paresh Rawal were all set to start shooting for the much-awaited Bhagam Bhag sequel from March 2, 2026 with a schedule in India and Lucknow. However, Bollywood Hungama has exclusively discovered that the Bhagam Bhag 2 shoot has been scrapped due to a legal tussle between Ekta Kapoor and Raaj Shaandilyaa.

A source informed Bollywood Hungama, "Ekta Kapoor has filed a legal case against Raaj Shaandilyaa for breach of contract. Raaj had signed a three-film deal with Ekta, and has now gone ahead to do not one but two films outside her banner. This has irked Ekta, as Raaj didn't take an NOC from her, nor did he refund the advance taken to direct the third project under her banner."

A legal notice was sent to Raaj, as well as producers Ashwin Varde and Cape of Good Films, to stall the shoot. "Seeing the complexities in the project, the producers decided to cancel the schedule until the legal issues are resolved. The film has, for now, gone on the back burner and could be revived with a new director in the months to come. At the moment, all the stakeholders are trying to resolve issues."

The dates of all three actors - Akshay, Manoj and Paresh have been released. "It was a 25-day schedule in March, and all the actor dates are now released. In-fact, there looms a real uncertainty on the future of Bhagam Bhag 2, as a long delay could also put the project on the backburner as all actors have already committed to multiple other films from June onwards. Akshay was caught unaware of the legal hassles just days before the film's shoot."

Remember, you read this first on Bollywood Hungama Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Paresh Rawal reveals, “We’ll miss Govinda in Bhagam Bhag 2”; opens up on Akshay Kumar-Manoj Bajpayee casting: “It’ll make for a different and unique combination”

PIL targets The Kerala Story 2, seeks removal of ‘Kerala’ from title amid communal concerns

A new Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed before the Kerala High Court challenging the title and release of the recently released film The Kerala Story 2. The petition, submitted on March 3 by a retired social science teacher and a practicing lawyer, calls for the removal of the word “Kerala” from the film’s title, arguing that it unfairly associates the State with sensitive and controversial themes.

According to the plea, the petitioners contend that the film’s title and subject matter risk portraying Kerala in a negative light. They have alleged that the narrative reportedly depicts the State as a centre for forced religious conversions, a portrayal they believe could damage its social and cultural image.

The petition also references an ongoing legal tussle involving the filmmakers. It notes that the producers have approached a Division Bench of the High Court challenging a recent interim order issued by a Single Bench, which had temporarily stayed the film’s release. The stay, the plea points out, was granted at a stage when the film was allegedly yet to be uploaded or publicly screened.

Beyond concerns over the State’s image, the petitioners have flagged the potential social repercussions of the film’s content. They argue that the narrative, as understood from available material, may foster hostility against members of the Muslim community in Kerala. The plea suggests that such a portrayal could disturb communal harmony and deepen existing sensitivities.

In addition to seeking changes to the title, the petitioners have requested judicial intervention to ensure that the film, if released, carries a clear disclaimer stating that the story is entirely fictional. They have urged the court to direct the Central Government and the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to mandate such a disclaimer to prevent audiences from interpreting the narrative as factual.

The PIL further calls for broader regulatory reforms. Specifically, it seeks directions to the Centre and the CBFC to frame comprehensive guidelines governing film titles and taglines. According to the plea, such norms should ensure that no cinematic work denigrates or maligns any State, region, caste, or religion through its branding or promotional material.

The matter is expected to come up for consideration before the High Court in the coming days, adding another chapter to the ongoing debate around creative freedom, censorship, and the responsibility of filmmakers in handling sensitive socio-political themes.

Also Read: Madras High Court restrains illegal broadcast of The Kerala Story 2 until March 23

BREAKING: Toxic: A Fairy Tale For Grown-Ups POSTPONED to June 4 due to rising tension in the Middle East; Dhurandhar: The Revenge to arrive SOLO on March 19

Sometime back, it came to light that the highly awaited film, Toxic: A Fairy Tale For Grown-Ups, has been pushed to June 4. This means that Dhurandhar: The Revenge will now arrive solo on March 19.

The official statement released by the makers stated, “KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations today announced a strategic rescheduling of the global theatrical release for the highly anticipated action-drama, Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups. Originally slated for a worldwide premiere on March 19, 2026, the film’s release is being moved to June 4, 2026, due to the ongoing volatile escalation and regional instability in the Middle East.”

The statement further added, “As advised by one of their major distribution partner Phars Films, the decision to reschedule the release was made in response to escalating tensions and the resulting disruptions to cinema operations across the Gulf region, a key market for the film’s multi-language global rollout. The producers have been closely monitoring the rapidly evolving regional developments with the utmost caution. This announcement comes at a time when the makers were gearing up for a grand trailer launch for 8th March in Bengaluru, with media from across the country. The makers had already mapped out the film’s final promotional schedule ahead of its earlier release date of 19th March 2026. Even though the film’s first single, ‘Tabaahi,’ was ready for its scheduled debut on 2nd March, the makers chose to hold the music video and momentarily pause the promotional rollout, which was locked and to be activated within a day or two.”

It also said, “Toxic: A Fairy Tale For Grown-Ups is a film we conceptualized with the vision to create cinema for a global audience. Filmed in Kannada and English, it is built with the conviction to connect with viewers both at home and across the world. After years of dedicated labour, we were excited to share our film with you all on March 19. However, the current uncertainty, especially in the Middle East, has created a situation that impacts our goal to reach and connect with the widest possible audience. Therefore, in the interest of our partners and our audience, we have made the difficult but carefully considered decision to reschedule our release. We thank you for your understanding and patience and look forward to your continued love and support.”

The Middle East Factor

A trade source commented, “No one knows when the tensions in the Middle East will end.  Moreover, Toxic: A Fairy Tale For Grown-Ups has the potential to earn Rs. 40-50 crore or even more from the UAE-GCC belt. Hence, it makes sense to push the film and release it later, when the situation hopefully would be normal.”

The source added, “The exhibitors were worried about the clash of Dhurandhar and Toxic. But now, they can breathe easy.”

Also Read: SCOOP: This Eid, get ready for a long ride; Toxic’s runtime likely to be approx. 3 hours and 20 minutes; Dhurandhar: The Revenge expected to be longer

Mandana Karimi slams ‘one-sided’ Iran coverage, urges Indian media to lend a platform to Reza Pahlavi - EXCLUSIVE

In an explosive, soul-bearing interview with Bollywood Hungama, actress and activist Mandana Karimi opened up about the personal and professional toll her advocacy for Iran has taken. The actress, who has been vocal against the Iranian regime amid the escalating Middle East conflict, revealed that her career in India has come to a standstill due to her outspoken political stance.

“Well since January, I've literally have left my work. I'm not working anymore. All my contract got cancelled. I've become too activist I've become too open about politics and I have messaged. I have emailed to platforms. I've said let's talk about it. I have videos I have images from Iran - Why are you not covering it?” Karimi shared, underscoring her frustration at what she describes as silence despite having access to ground-level material.

The actress, known for her appearance on Bigg Boss 9 and films like Kyaa Kool Hain Hum 3, also criticised sections of the Indian media for what she called skewed reporting. “No one has covered it and if they have covered it they were talking about how strong the regime is. They've kind of sold themselves into the whole propaganda of the government and Iranian government is very known for having these kind of Influencers or certain reporters to go to Iran and cover the situation. So I've been very disheartened from the media in India, and they haven't been covering well. Even now, when you look at India today, you know the way they're covering the news. It's so one-sided. It's not accurate - the answers and questions,” she stated.

 

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Karimi went on to urge Indian news platforms to provide space to opposition voices, specifically naming exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi.“I would request Indian media - to whoever is watching this video from media – ‘Indian media, if you have brought the regime murderous Cabinet to India and you've actually given your platform to interview them and ask their opinion about what's happening in Iran; why aren't you bringing Reza Shah Pahlavi? Why aren't you bringing people who are working with Reza Shah Pahlavi? We want to also tell our side of the story’,” she urged.

She concluded with a pointed reminder: “Every story has two sides. It's never one-sided, right? You're a reporter, right? You're supposed to report the news. So why aren't you inviting Reza Pahlavi to your channel and let's talk.”

Her remarks come amid heightened tensions in the region. As of March 2026, the conflict has intensified following joint US-Israeli strikes targeting senior Iranian officials and military sites, prompting retaliatory missile attacks from Tehran and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. With reports of internal unrest and uncertainty within Iran’s leadership, the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate, adding urgency to calls for broader global coverage of the crisis.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Mandana Karimi plans to return to Iran if regime changes amid conflict; says, “I feel like I don’t have a voice in India”

Jab Khuli Kitaab trailer out: Pankaj Kapur, Dimple Kapadia, and Aparshakti Khurana starrer to release on Zee5 on March 6, 2026

Hindi ZEE5 unveiled the trailer of its upcoming film Jab Khuli Kitaab today, offering audiences a heartfelt, humorous, and refreshingly honest glimpse into one of the most poignant portrayals of mature love on screen. Written and directed by Saurabh Shukla and led by the stellar pairing of Pankaj Kapur and Dimple Kapadia, the film delves into the emotional complexities of a five-decade-long marriage disrupted by a truth long buried in silence.

The trailer offers a window into the quiet, familiar world of Gopal [Pankaj Kapur] and Anusuya [Dimple Kapadia], a couple bound by 50 years of shared routines, memories, and silent understanding. Their seemingly peaceful life takes an unexpected turn when Anusuya reveals a long-buried secret, shaking the very core of their relationship. Struggling to come to terms with the revelation, Gopal finds himself torn between heartbreak and dignity, eventually choosing to pursue divorce.

Their story leads them to a young lawyer, played by Aparshakti Khurana, where difficult conversations begin to unravel years of unspoken emotions, lingering pain, and buried affection. As memories resurface and truth come to light, the trailer unfolds as a moving and nuanced portrayal of love tested by time. With its blend of sensitivity, warmth, and honesty, it promises a compelling story about relationships, forgiveness, and the strength required to confront the past and rediscover connection.

Blending gentle humor with effortlessly flowing moments, the film stays light on its feet and ultimately makes for a genuinely enjoyable watch.

 

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Talking about his character Gopal, Pankaj Kapur said, “What makes Jab Khuli Kitaab truly special is Saurabh Shukla’s vision. It’s rare to find a filmmaker who chooses to shine a spotlight on older, mature love — and to do it with such honesty, humour, and tenderness. Saurabh has crafted a narrative that is not only refreshing, but deeply real. He reminds us that love doesn’t fade with age; it evolves, it complicates, it bruises, and it heals. It was a rewarding challenge to portray a man rediscovering love in the most unexpected way; I’m grateful to be part of a story that treats this stage of life with such dignity, authenticity, and emotional depth.”

Dimple Kapadia on playing Anusuya said, “Jab Khuli Kitaab truly felt like a project where all my boxes were ticked — a beautiful story, the opportunity to work with Pankaj Kapur, and to be directed by Saurabh ji, all while basking in the beauty and divine energy of the mountains. Anusuya is written with such depth and honesty that it was a joy to explore her many shades. What drew me to her is the simplicity of intention — she isn’t trying to break her marriage; she’s trying to be honest within it. That kind of honesty, especially after decades together, requires immense emotional courage. It feels great to portray such a nuanced character and im grateful to Applause Entertainment and Hindi ZEE5 for backing stories that are bold, intimate, and deeply human.”

Aparshakti Khurana added, “My character becomes the unlikely mirror through which Gopal and Anusuya begin to confront their past. The generational gap creates moments that are both comic and emotionally revealing. What I love most is how the film handles forgiveness and connection with such lightness, yet such depth. It’s a rare story.”

Jab Khuli Kitaab blends humour and heartache to offer a rare, sensitive portrayal of late-life love and the courage it takes to start over. With its layered characters, sharp writing, and performances from some of India’s finest actors, the film promises to resonate across generations.

The film will premiere exclusively on ZEE5 on March 06, 2026.

Also Read: ZEE5 announces Punjab-set series Shabad – Reet Aur Riwaaz, story tackles Mihir Ahuja’s passion towards football