Vishal Bhardwaj and Shaunak Sen join new film fund initiative supporting independent cinema

What are the vital ingredients an aspiring filmmaker needs when they have a story to tell but no outlet? Beyond a script, they need financial stability, production expertise, and industry access. Addressing this gap, Humans of Cinema and Safarnaama Pictures have launched a landmark feature film co-production fund of Rs 40,00,000 designed to back an emerging filmmaker with a distinct voice and a clear vision.

In a significant boost to the independent ecosystem, Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Shaunak Sen (All That Breathes) and globally acclaimed auteur Vishal Bhardwaj have joined the initiative as mentors. Sen is also attached to the selected project as an Executive Producer.

The high-profile jury for the fund includes actor Imran Khan, filmmaker Arati Kadav (Cargo, Mrs), producer Aman Mann (All That Breathes), and renowned author and festival director Aseem Chhabra.

Harshit Bansal, Founder of Humans of Cinema, shared that the idea took shape when Nazim Momin of Safarnaama Pictures—a US-based engineer and producer—reached out via Instagram with a shared vision to back independent Indian cinema. Together, they aim to support a film that is both festival-ready and engaging for local audiences.

Commenting on the initiative, mentor Vishal Bhardwaj said, “Independent cinema survives because some people choose to believe in voices before the world discovers them. Happy to support an initiative that hopes to find and nurture the next fearless generation of filmmakers from India.”

Shaunak Sen, who will Executive Produce the chosen script, added, “Avenues for independent cinema today are rapidly wilting, and I'm delighted that Humans of Cinema is instating a filmmaker-forward seed fund. I'm excited to work with the chosen scripts.”

The jury also expressed a collective urgency for such a platform. Imran Khan stated, "Initiatives to discover and nurture the next generation of filmmaking talent are sorely needed, and I am thrilled to support the HOC Film fund.”

Calling the co-production fund a “logical next step”, Arati Kadav said, “I am excited to see the young voices and stories I will meet through this venture and I hope this goes from strength to strength in the coming years, where we will see many brilliant and radical voices finding support in this ecosystem.”

Aseem Chhabra added, “This will be a great opportunity for a young filmmaker who is keen to make their first feature and take it to an international festival. Such endeavors are essential if we want to take Indian cinema to the next level in the global market.”

Harshit Bansal emphasized that the country does not lack talent, but rather the avenues to turn scripts into reality. “Our intention is to find the next distinct filmmaking voice from the country, & offer them the financial, production & industry support they need to not just make their films, but also to help them find the right festival & distribution support.

"We feel fortunate that Shaunak Sen & Vishal Bhardwaj have joined our initiative as mentors, with Shaunak also being attached to the selected project as an Executive Producer. Their support & insights will be invaluable for the selected filmmaker as well as us. We’re also grateful to Shaunak’s production company, Kiterabbit Films, for offering us crucial support for this initiative, and to our jury members who are lending their expertise out of their sheer goodwill and a passion to support good cinema,” he added.

The fund is open to all Indian citizens aged 18 and above who have directed at least two short films or one feature film. Interested applicants can submit their projects for a non-refundable fee of Rs 1499.

Also Read: SHOCKING: Irrfan Khan’s car was attacked during Haider shoot in Srinagar; Vishal Bhardwaj reveals, “Any other actor would have left but Irrfan made fun of it. He said, ‘Arre, aisa nishaana tha saale ka…kya throw thi uski’!”

Ranbir Kapoor buys land in Ayodhya’s The Sarayu project for Rs 3.31 crores

Ranbir Kapoor has invested in a premium land parcel in Ayodhya, adding a significant real estate acquisition to his portfolio at a time when the city is witnessing rapid cultural and infrastructural growth. The actor has purchased land at The Sarayu, a large-scale plotted development by House of Abhinandan Lodha, according to information reported by PTI.

The transaction is valued at approximately Rs 3.31 crores for a total area of 2,134 square feet. The property forms part of The Sarayu, a 75-acre development situated along the banks of the Sarayu river. The project is designed as a premium lifestyle destination and will include a clubhouse, hospitality facilities, lifestyle amenities, and a luxury hotel managed by The Leela.

Speaking about the investment, Ranbir Kapoor said, “I believe Ayodhya has chosen me, and I have just answered this calling. Ayodhya is deep rooted in our history and is a critical part of our cultural fabric. This land at The Sarayu became my gateway to ensuring this becomes a part of my legacy for my family. HoABL made this journey seamless, transparent and easy with their fully digital process.”

The investment comes at an interesting phase in the actor’s career, especially as Ranbir is preparing to portray Lord Ram in Ramayana, one of the most anticipated Indian film projects currently in development. His purchase in Ayodhya, a city deeply associated with the Ramayana, has naturally drawn attention online and among fans.

Commenting on the development, Abhinandan Lodha, chairman of House of Abhinandan Lodha, said, “Ayodhya stands at the centre of India's cultural and spiritual resurgence. With The Sarayu, we are creating a benchmark for spiritually rooted, world-class land developments. Ranbir Kapoor's investment reflects the growing conviction among discerning buyers who are looking at Ayodhya not just emotionally, but also as a strategic, future-forward destination.”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Sanjana Sanghi on how school life changed after Rockstar audition, “Within 3 days, I was with Ranbir Kapoor, Imtiaz Ali sir on Rockstar sets”

EXCLUSIVE: Jr NTR to visit Mumbai for NTRNeel teaser showcase ahead of birthday reveal

As excitement around Jr NTR and director Prashanth Neel’s upcoming film NTRNeel continues to grow, fresh industry buzz suggests that fans may be in for a much bigger surprise ahead of the actor’s birthday celebrations this year. The highly anticipated project, tentatively referred to as NTR31 and widely rumoured to be titled Dragon, is already among the most talked-about pan-India films currently in production.

The makers have officially confirmed that the film’s first glimpse will be unveiled at midnight on May 19, coinciding with Jr NTR’s birthday on May 20. However, according to an independent industry source, the celebrations may extend beyond just a digital reveal.

“As the first glimpse of NTRNeel is set to be released at midnight on 19th May, on the special occasion of NTR’s birthday on 20th May, it has been heard that NTR himself will be coming to Mumbai to showcase the teaser to the media. While the superstar enjoys a massive fan base across the nation, his visit to the City of Dreams will be a treat for his fans,” the source shared.

While there has been no official confirmation from the makers regarding a Mumbai event yet, the report has already sparked massive excitement online. Jr NTR enjoys a strong fan following not just in the South, but across Hindi-speaking markets as well, especially after the global success of RRR. A media interaction or teaser showcase in Mumbai would further underline the film’s ambitious pan-India positioning.

Industry chatter also suggests that the upcoming glimpse may not be a standard teaser. Reports indicate that the video could be a detailed world-building introduction running over three minutes, offering audiences a larger peek into the film’s scale, tone, and visual universe. There is also growing speculation that the makers may finally unveil the official title during the launch.

Also Read: NTRNeel first glimpse to drop on the birthday of Jr NTR at midnight; fans gear up for Prashanth Neel’s massive action spectacle

Mouni Roy and Suraj Nambiar CONFIRM separation after four years of marriage: “We will cherish our friendship”

Mouni Roy and her husband Suraj Nambiar have officially confirmed their separation after four years of marriage. The couple issued a joint statement on Thursday following days of intense speculation surrounding their relationship on social media.

Rumours about trouble in their marriage first began circulating earlier this week after fans noticed that Mouni and Suraj had unfollowed each other on Instagram. Social media users also pointed out that several recent photographs featuring Suraj had reportedly been removed or archived from Mouni’s profile, while some wedding pictures continued to remain visible. Soon after, Suraj’s Instagram account was deactivated, adding further fuel to the speculation.

The situation gained more attention when reports surfaced that actor Disha Patani, who is considered close to Mouni, had also unfollowed Suraj on the platform. Addressing the growing speculation, Mouni and Suraj released a joint note requesting privacy and urging media outlets to refrain from spreading false narratives about their relationship. “We note with dismay the unnecessary and intrusive attention into our personal lives by certain quarters of the media,” the statement read.

The couple further confirmed their decision to separate, while clarifying that the process is being handled privately and respectfully. “We would like to state that we have decided to part ways and are taking the necessary time to address matters privately and amicably,” they shared.

Referring to the rumours and discussions circulating online, the two stated that several assumptions made about their relationship were inaccurate. “Attempts have been made to sensationalize our private lives by circulation of fictitious narratives and blatant falsehoods, which do not reflect the reality of our relationship,” the note added.

Mouni and Suraj also emphasised that the decision was mutual and based on evolving personal priorities. “After thoughtful reflection on evolving personal priorities, we have mutually chosen to move forward on separate paths with respect and understanding,” they wrote.

 

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Bollywood Hungama🎥 (@realbollywoodhungama)

Despite ending their marriage, the two suggested they hope to maintain a cordial bond moving forward. “We will endeavour to cherish our friendship in times to come,” the statement concluded.

The couple got married in January 2022 in Goa in a ceremony that blended Bengali and Malayali traditions. Their wedding photographs had gone viral at the time, drawing widespread attention online.

On the professional front, Mouni Roy is currently preparing for the release of her upcoming film Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, which is slated to release in June 2026.

Also Read: Mouni Roy’s privacy note exposes Instagram’s new role as Bollywood’s relationship audit machine

Tips denies allegations made by Puja Entertainment in legal dispute, calls them ‘malicious’ and ‘misconceived’

Tips Music Limited has responded to the allegations made by Vashu Bhagnani’s Puja Entertainment in an ongoing legal dispute over music and intellectual property rights.

Recently, Puja Entertainment approached a Bihar court claiming that its films, songs, and other copyrighted content were allegedly being used and commercially exploited without proper permission by Tips. The court granted interim protection and directed the parties involved to maintain status quo in the matter.

Reacting to the allegations, Tips issued an official statement denying the claims and asserting that it is the lawful owner of the music rights involved in the dispute.

The statement said, “While formal copies of the order are awaited, Tips clarifies that it is the rightful owner of the music rights in question, supported by valid and binding agreements between the parties. Tips has openly and legitimately exploited these rights for nearly three decades in full compliance with the applicable laws.”

The statement continued, “The claims made by PEIL (Puja Entertainment India Limited) are strongly disputed and appear to be malicious, misconceived, and intended to tarnish the reputation and goodwill of Tips. Tips remains fully confident in defending its rights before the appropriate courts and shall take all necessary legal steps to protect its interest and ownership of rights.”

The matter is currently under legal consideration, and further proceedings are awaited.

Also Read: Puja Entertainment court order seen as landmark moment for producer rights; protection of film IP and legacy rights takes centre stage

Parineeti Chopra joins Johnson’s Baby as new brand ambassador; launches nourishment range in Mumbai

Parineeti Chopra has added yet another meaningful association to her journey as she has been announced as the new face of Johnson’s Baby. The actress attended a special event in Mumbai on May 12 to launch Johnson’s Baby’s new nourishment range, comprising milk and rice, and built around the concept of “Poshan Ka Pehla Sparsh” and the idea of “Food for Skin.”

Over the years, Parineeti has emerged as one of the most admired names among the youth. From her film choices to her candid personality and relatable public image, she has always struck a chord with young India. Now, as a new mother herself, her association with Johnson’s Baby feels both timely and organic. Her personal journey into motherhood gives the campaign a layer of authenticity, making her an ideal brand ambassador for a name that has been synonymous with baby care for generations.

Speaking about the association, Parineeti Chopra said, "Motherhood is truly a blessing, and I feel incredibly grateful to be experiencing something so magical. Becoming the brand ambassador for Johnson’s Baby felt very special to me because it allows me to be part of the care and comfort that every mother and baby deserves. I’m looking forward to this association.”

The collaboration also reflects the evolving face of celebrity endorsements, where brands are increasingly looking for personalities who bring not just popularity, but also lived experiences and emotional resonance. Parineeti’s new phase as a mother makes her connect naturally with parents who seek products built around gentleness, safety and trust.

With her warmth, relatability and strong connect with the youth as well as young parents, Parineeti Chopra’s association with Johnson’s Baby is expected to further strengthen the brand’s emotional bond with Indian families. For the actress, too, this marks a special milestone as she steps into a brand journey that mirrors one of the most beautiful chapters of her own life – motherhood.

Also Read: Parineeti Chopra to host Mom Talks on ZEE5; celeb parents open up on modern parenting

Is Prime Video planning bigger push for TVF content? Here’s what we know!

Prime Video and The Viral Fever continue to strengthen their collaboration as several TVF-backed shows have emerged among the platform’s most successful Indian originals in recent years. According to an industry insider, the growing popularity of TVF content has encouraged Prime Video to explore the possibility of bringing more of the production house’s digital content from YouTube onto its streaming platform.

Sharing insights into the development, the source stated, “TVF’s Panchayat, Sapne vs Everyone S2 and others emerged as one of Prime Video’s biggest successes in recent times, the OTT giant is now looking to bring more of TVF’s content from YouTube onto its platform. Since TVF’s shows already have a massive audience base on YouTube and across their own channel, this presents a perfect opportunity for Prime Video to tap into a new market and reach a much wider audience base.”

One of the biggest success stories in the collaboration between TVF and Prime Video has been Panchayat. The rural comedy-drama, starring Jitendra Kumar, has developed a strong fan following across India and remains one of the platform’s most talked-about web series. Following the positive response to Season 3, which released in May 2024, the show has already been renewed for a fourth season.

Another key title in the partnership has been Aspirants, which originally began as a YouTube release before moving to Prime Video for its second season. The series, centred around UPSC aspirants and friendship, became especially popular among younger viewers and competitive exam students. Its success has now led to the renewal of a third season.

Industry observers believe that moving more TVF content to OTT platforms could help streaming services tap into viewers who already actively engage with the company’s content online. At the same time, it may also help TVF expand the reach of its existing shows beyond YouTube audiences and strengthen its position in the premium streaming market.

Also Read: The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power Season 3 gets November 2026 release date; Prime Video renews fantasy epic for Season 4