Chand Mera Dil postponed, now set for May 22 theatrical release

Chand Mera Dil, starring Ananya Panday and Lakshya, has received a revised theatrical release date. Backed by Dharma Productions, the romantic drama will now arrive in cinemas on May 22 instead of its earlier announced April 10 release. The makers confirmed the update through social media on Wednesday, announcing the shift in schedule while reiterating anticipation around the film’s fresh pairing and emotional storyline.

Fresh pairing under Vivek Soni’s direction The film is directed by Vivek Soni, known for projects such as Meenakshi Sundareshwar and Aap Jaisa Koi. Chand Mera Dil brings together Ananya Panday and Lakshya on screen for the first time, positioning the film as a youthful romantic story centred on an intense relationship.

Earlier, in 2024, Karan Johar had shared first-look posters from the film and wrote, “We have two chands ready to bring an intense & passionate love story like no other!!! Pyaar mein thoda paagal hona hi padta hai...Chand Mera Dil, starring Ananya Panday & Lakshya. Directed by Vivek Soni.” The posters featured the lead pair in romantic moments set against a moonlit backdrop.

The film marks Lakshya’s second theatrical release following Kill, in which he starred alongside Raghav Juyal. The actor also attracted attention last year for his performance in The Ba***ds of Bollywood, the debut directorial series of Aryan Khan.

For Ananya Panday, the project follows her appearance in Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri opposite Kartik Aaryan. With Chand Mera Dil now set for a late May release, the film becomes her next major romantic outing on the big screen.

Also Read: Chand Mera Dil set PHOTOS LEAKED: Lakshya rides into romance with Ananya Panday in traditional attire

Project Hail Mary struggles to get screens in India despite healthy advance sales; expected to share shows with Dhurandhar The Revenge in IMAX properties

Less than 24 hours remain until the release of Project Hail Mary in India, and fans are disappointed as the booking has yet to open in a full-fledged manner across the board. The biggest grouse among them is that ticket sales have yet to begin in IMAX theatres. The Ryan Gosling-starrer, which released on March 20 in most parts of the world, was pushed by a week in India, to March 26, to avoid a clash with Dhurandhar The Revenge.

A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “Project Hail Mary is filmed for IMAX and hence for many moviegoers, it is a must-watch in the IMAX theatres. But the bookings still haven't began though the film releases tomorrow (Thursday, March 26). In all probability, Project Hail Mary will share shows with Dhurandhar 2 in the IMAX screens.”

What alarmed netizens was that Cinepolis Kochi had initially allotted all shows for the day to Project Hail Mary, while the late-night show at Maison INOX, BKC, Mumbai, was also scheduled for the Hollywood film. However, on the night of March 24, bookings for Project Hail Mary were suspended at both cinemas. As of 8:00 am on March 25, the only IMAX property in India to have opened bookings for the film is Broadway Cinemas, Coimbatore. It is scheduled to screen the Ryan Gosling-starrer tomorrow at 2:00 pm, and the show is already almost full.

The trade source revealed, “Project Hail Mary has sold some 25,000 tickets for the release day. Once IMAX bookings start, the number will jump significantly as the majority of the moviegoers in the major cities are going to watch the film in all its glory on the giant IMAX screens.”

Another source told us, “Dhurandhar The Revenge is doing record business. We don’t remember the last time a film has done such business. The occupancy has barely fallen on weekdays. Hence, it's obvious that the studio and also the exhibitors are unwilling to reduce showcasing in order to accommodate another film. However, Project Hail Mary’s advance booking is strong. This and the glowing reviews from the West have given Sony Pictures the motivation to fight for as many screens as possible. The issue is expected to be resolved by Wednesday afternoon or at the latest by Wednesday evening.”

Meanwhile, a few days ago, Project Hail Mary’s director duo, Phil Lord and Christopher Miller opened up about Dhurandhar The Revenge’s blockbuster business in an interview with Variety India. When asked about their film releasing a week later in India, Christopher Miller said, “We’ve got a sequel to a very popular Bollywood film coming out on that date; I heard about it. And I am happy.”

Phil Lord added, “(That’s) good for the health of the global movie business and for Bollywood. There are great local productions, for sure.”

Also Read: Hrithik Roshan and Ryan Gosling come together to promote Project Hail Mary; their chat breaks the internet as fans demand a collaboration

R Madhavan clarifies Dhurandhar The Revenge controversy over Dasam Granth scene: “We stand with the entire Sikh community”

Dhurandhar The Revenge has once again landed in controversy after a Shiv Sena leader filed a complaint objecting to a scene featuring R. Madhavan. The objection concerns a sequence in which Madhavan’s character, Intelligence Bureau Director Ajay Sanyal, is seen around the time he recites lines from the sacred Dasam Granth. The complainant has alleged that the portrayal hurt Sikh religious sentiments and showed disrespect towards Guru Gobind Singh and Gurbani.

Responding to the concerns, Madhavan shared a clarification video on Instagram, stating that there was a misunderstanding regarding the scene and that no disrespect was intended. R Madhavan issues clarification In the video message, Madhavan thanked audiences for the support received by the film’s team and addressed the controversy directly. He said the team had recently learned that some viewers were hurt by the perception that he was smoking while reciting lines from the Dasam Granth.

He explained that filmmaker Aditya Dhar had instructed him to extinguish the cigarette well before delivering the lines in the scene. According to Madhavan, the intention was to ensure that neither smoke nor a cigarette appeared on screen while the sacred verse was being recited.

Madhavan added that viewers would notice there was no smoke visible in the frame during the moment in question and that the cigarette had already been put out earlier in the sequence. He emphasised that the makers were aware of the sensitivity of the material and had taken care not to hurt religious sentiments.

He also reiterated his respect for the Sikh community, stating that he has always held their traditions in high regard. The actor said he routinely visits the Golden Temple ahead of his film releases and stressed that there was never any intention to offend anyone.

 

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by R. Madhavan (@actormaddy)

Madhavan further clarified that while his character is shown as a smoker in the film, the cigarette appears only at the beginning of the scene and is not present during the recitation itself. Complaint filed over the sequence The controversy began after a Shiv Sena leader raised objections to the sequence and filed a complaint, alleging that the portrayal showed disrespect towards Guru Gobind Singh and the Dasam Granth. The complaint argued that the depiction was inappropriate and hurt religious sentiments.

Also Read: R Madhavan reacts to the praise showered by Allu Arjun on him and Dhurandhar: The Revenge; calls it ‘super super special’ at a pivotal moment

Ranveer Singh to submit unconditional apology affidavit in Kantara mimicry controversy; next hearing on April 10: Report

Actor Ranveer Singh is set to submit an affidavit offering an unconditional apology in connection with the controversy surrounding his mimicry of a scene from Kantara at the closing ceremony of the International Film Festival of India 2025. According to a report by NDTV, the affidavit will be filed before the court on April 10, 2026, when the matter is scheduled to be heard next.

As part of the apology process, the actor is also expected to personally visit the Chamundi Temple in Mysuru. The development follows objections raised by the complainant’s counsel, who argued that Ranveer had only issued a written apology on social media earlier and had not expressed regret verbally before the court.

During the recent proceedings, the complainant’s lawyer Prashant Methal stated that the earlier apology appeared to be formal rather than sincere. Responding to this, Ranveer Singh’s legal team informed the court that the actor was genuinely hurt by the situation and would soon submit a written apology in the form of an affidavit.

The controversy dates back to the closing ceremony of IFFI in Goa, where Ranveer spoke about watching Kantara: Chapter 1 and praised filmmaker-actor Rishab Shetty for his performance. During the interaction, Ranveer imitated the Daiva possession sequence from the film and referred to the figure as a “female ghost.” Although the imitation was intended as a tribute, it was perceived by some viewers as insensitive and disrespectful to the cultural context of the sequence. Reports also suggested that Rishab Shetty, who was present at the event, advised him not to continue the act.

Following the backlash in December 2025, Ranveer issued an apology on Instagram, clarifying that his intention was to acknowledge Rishab Shetty’s performance. He wrote that he admired the effort required to perform the scene and expressed regret if his remarks had hurt sentiments. He also stated that he has always respected cultural traditions and beliefs across the country.

Also Read: Madhur Bhandarkar shares his views on Ranveer Singh-Kantara controversy: “He crossed a line…he was praising the performance and got lost in the flow”

After Saif Ali Khan, Ranveer Singh turns brand ambassador for Ajmal Perfumes, fronts ‘Aristocrat’ campaign amid Dhurandhar success

In a significant brand move, Ranveer Singh has been announced as the new face of Ajmal Perfumes, taking over ambassadorial duties after Saif Ali Khan. The announcement was jointly made by the brand and the actor across social media platforms, marking the beginning of a fresh collaboration as Ranveer fronts the company’s latest fragrance campaign.

Currently enjoying the success of Dhurandhar The Revenge, which released on March 19 and continues to perform strongly in theatres, Ranveer has also featured in a newly unveiled commercial for Ajmal Perfumes. Promoting their premium fragrance Aristocrat, the actor is seen embodying sophistication and charm in a sharply tailored suited avatar, reinforcing the brand’s emphasis on elegance and understated power.

 

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Ajmal Perfumes India (@ajmalperfumesin)

The campaign, built around the theme ‘Your Unseen Power’, positions ‘Aristocrat’ as a refined oudh-based fragrance with woody undertones, designed for individuals who make a lasting impression without overt display. The brand’s messaging highlights subtlety and presence, aligning with Ranveer’s portrayal in the ad, where his poised screen presence anchors the narrative.

Beyond ‘Aristocrat’, the collaboration also extends to Ajmal’s wider fragrance portfolio. Ranveer will be associated with upcoming launches including ‘Aurum Summer’, a floral unisex scent aimed at capturing freshness and vibrancy, and ‘Wisal Layl’, described as a sensual, woody fragrance that leans into deeper, more intimate notes.

Speaking about the association, Ranveer Singh shared that Ajmal Dubai represents heritage, craftsmanship, and the belief that fragrance is an extension of one’s personality—an idea he personally resonates with. He noted that the ‘Your Unseen Power’ campaign reflects this philosophy through fragrances like Aristocrat, Aurum Summer, and Wisal Layl, each capturing different facets of confidence, energy, and intimacy. He further described these fragrances not merely as perfumes, but as immersive experiences that allow individuals to step into their own ‘unseen power’.

Ajmal Perfumes, known for its legacy in crafting Oud-based scents and its strong presence in the Middle East, continues to expand its global footprint with this collaboration. By bringing Ranveer Singh on board, the brand appears to be targeting a wider, younger audience while maintaining its core identity rooted in tradition and luxury.

With this new partnership, Ranveer Singh adds another high-profile endorsement to his portfolio, while Ajmal Perfumes strengthens its positioning in the competitive global fragrance market through a campaign that blends heritage with contemporary appeal.

Also Read: Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh step out for seafood date in Mumbai; viral pics leave fans gushing

Dhurandhar The Revenge faces legal heat; plea seeks ban on the film’s release ahead of Tamil Nadu elections

In a significant development ahead of the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, a plea has been raised before the Madras High Court seeking a ban on the recently released film Dhurandhar The Revenge in the state. The matter was mentioned urgently on Monday, March 23, with concerns that the film’s politically charged narrative could influence voters during the crucial election period.

Advocate Sheela brought the issue before a bench comprising Chief Justice SA Dharmadhikari and Justice G Arul Murugan. The counsel argued that the film contains strong political undertones and may impact voter sentiment, especially with elections scheduled to take place on April 23, 2026.

Highlighting the timing of the release, the advocate pointed out that the Model Code of Conduct is currently in force following the March 15 announcement by the Election Commission of India. She urged the court to restrain the screening of the film in Tamil Nadu until the completion of polling, suggesting that its exhibition could resume thereafter.

Dhurandhar The Revenge, which hit theatres on March 19, has been generating considerable buzz for its high-octane narrative and intense political backdrop. The film reportedly follows the journey of a covert operative returning to India after a long mission, only to find himself entangled in a web of power, corruption, and political intrigue. With its layered storytelling and dramatic conflicts, the film has sparked conversations among audiences and critics alike.

While the court did not pass an immediate order on the oral mention, it directed the complainant to file a formal petition to examine the matter in detail. An urgent hearing is expected to take place after the complainant completes the filing process, which could determine whether the film continues its theatrical run in the state during the election period.

The development adds a fresh layer of controversy to the Ranveer Singh starrer, which has already been in the spotlight for its bold themes and strong narrative tone. As the legal proceedings unfold, all eyes will be on the court’s decision and its potential impact on both the film’s box office performance and the broader conversation around cinema and political sensitivity during elections.

Also Read: Dhurandhar The Revenge creates HISTORY on Monday with Rs. 60 crores; smashes Rs. 500 crores in 5 days

Makers of Tumbbad 2 build 7–8 acre set for first schedule in Mumbai; deets inside!

With Tumbbad, Sohum Shah indeed created a cinematic masterpiece. While the film gained a cult following and is considered one of the finest Hindi horror films, it was re-released in 2024 and went on to become the second highest-grossing re-released Indian film. Ever since then, audiences have been eagerly waiting for Tumbbad 2, and its announcement by Sohum Shah has only added to the intrigue.

Now, as the production of the much-awaited sequel, Tumbbad 2, draws near, it is being heard that the makers are going bigger and grander in scale this time. As per sources, a massive, full-scale city is being built in Mumbai for the film’s first schedule.

According to an independent industry source, “A massive 7–8-acre set is being constructed in Mumbai for the film. It will be a full-scale city, being created for the film’s first schedule. Not much is known about the film’s plot or treatment, aside from the fact that Sohum will reprise his role.” The source further adds that the sequel is shaping up to be significantly bigger in ambition and scale than the first part.

Backed by Sohum Shah Films and Pen Studios, the film is slated to go on floors later this year. Tumbbad 2 is being spearheaded by actor-producer Sohum Shah under his banner, Sohum Shah Films, in collaboration with Pen Studios, headed by veteran producer Dr. Jayantilal Gada. Pen Studios is known for backing blockbuster films such as RRR and Gangubai Kathiawadi.

Also Read: Tumbbad 2 prosthetic designer Shaune Harrison teases transformation: “There is one main character that we’re doing, for which we go through three different looks”