SCOOP: Varun Dhawan in talks for Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri's Operation Sindoor

Varun Dhawan left a mark in nationalist cinema with his sincere act in Border 2. Ever since, he has been flooded with offers in the zone of war and army films, but he is being very careful with what he picks next. With offers coming from all across the quarters – Dharma Productions, Maddock, Sajid Nadiadwala and Tips - we have exclusively learnt that Varun Dhawan is in talks with Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri and Bhushan Kumar for Operation Sindoor.

A reliable source told Bollywood Hungama, "Varun has been offered Operation Sindoor, and the actor has shown his interest in playing the lead. Bhushan Kumar and Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri went to Varun with the lead protagonist role in the film, and the actor has shown early interest in the subject. He is expected to hear the full narration soon and then take a call on the same."

The source further informs that Varun had taken a short break from acting recently to spend time with his daughter, Lara, and is now back in form to sign films and come back in action. "He is gearing up for the release of Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai on May 22, and is looking to start a new film by July this year. He is meeting all writers and directors now, and is expected to lock his next very soon."

Varun has been talking to producer Bhushan Kumar for multiple projects after Border 2, and one of those is Operation Sindoor. Bhushan and Varun are looking to do a multi-film deal, and more updates on the same are awaited in the months to come.

Also Read: Bhushan Kumar, Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri announce Operation Sindoor, film based on India’s deep strikes inside Pakistan

Border 2 producer Nidhi Dutta wants to expand slate with fantasy adventure franchise and air force drama: Sources

Producer Nidhi Dutta is expanding her production slate with multiple projects across genres, including a planned fantasy adventure franchise. The move comes after the release of Border 2, which featured Sunny Deol and Varun Dhawan in leading roles earlier this year.

Shortly after Border 2 hit screens in January, Nidhi had confirmed that work on Border 3 is underway, continuing the legacy of the popular war drama franchise originally created by her father, filmmaker JP Dutta. However, sources indicate that the upcoming instalment is only one part of a broader expansion plan for the banner, JP Films.

In a notable shift, Nidhi is also developing a fantasy adventure franchise, marking a departure from the production house’s established focus on war and patriotic films. According to sources, “It's an ambitious franchise that will be shot across multiple locations throughout the country. Like in Border 2, Nidhi has been part of the writing process here. The casting process has begun, and the film is likely to go on floors later this year.”

At the same time, the producer continues to build on the banner’s association with armed forces narratives. Reports suggest that another project in development is a drama centred on the Indian Air Force. With the script reportedly finalised, casting for the film is currently in progress. An insider shared, “Nidhi wants to take this project on floors this year itself. This movie, along with Border 3, is aimed at expanding the producer's repertoire of films that focus on the Armed Forces.”

The diversification of projects indicates a conscious effort to balance newer genres with the studio’s established identity. While the fantasy venture introduces a different creative direction, the continuation of war-based stories ensures continuity with the legacy of Border and similar films.

On a personal note, sources also mention that this phase has been significant for Nidhi Dutta, following the arrival of her daughter, Sitara. The producer is said to view this period as an important milestone both professionally and personally, as she moves forward with multiple projects under development.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Nidhi Dutta on casting for Border 2,”You think you’re choosing, but the heroes sitting up in heaven choose who gets into their footsteps”

Sreeleela becomes the new face of Santoor as brand targets younger audiences

Santoor, a name long linked with a distinct identity, is signalling a fresh shift with actor Sreeleela stepping in as the new face of the brand. The move marks a noticeable change in how the legacy beauty brand is choosing to engage with today’s younger consumers.

Known for her youthful energy and strong connect with Gen Z and millennial audiences, Sreeleela brings a distinctly contemporary presence to the brand — one that reflects evolving ideas of beauty and self-care rooted in confidence.

While Santoor has traditionally been associated with a specific beauty narrative, this shift points to a broader, more inclusive conversation around everyday beauty and personal care for younger consumers. Details of the campaign featuring Sreeleela are expected to be revealed in the coming days.

Also Read: Sreeleela on staying rooted despite the fame, “It is a journey where you are constantly learning, unlearning, and relearning”

PM Narendra Modi wishes Asha Bhosle a speedy recovery after hospitalisation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended his wishes for the recovery of veteran playback singer Asha Bhosle following news of her recent hospitalisation. The 92-year-old singer is currently undergoing treatment for exhaustion and a chest infection, according to a statement shared earlier by her granddaughter Zanai Bhosle.

Taking to X, the Prime Minister expressed concern about her health and conveyed his support. He wrote: “Deeply concerned to hear that Asha Bhosle Ji has been admitted to hospital. Praying for her good health and a speedy recovery.”

Deeply concerned to hear that Asha Bhosle Ji has been admitted to hospital. Praying for her good health and a speedy recovery. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 12, 2026

His message comes amid widespread concern from across the film and music fraternity after initial reports about the singer’s hospitalisation surfaced earlier in the day. The clarification from her family later confirmed that she is receiving treatment for exhaustion and a chest infection, while requesting privacy as doctors continue to monitor her condition.

My grandmother, Asha Bhosle due to extreme exhaustion and suffering a chest infection has been admitted to hospital and we request you to value our privacy. Treatment is ongoing and hopefully everything will be well and we shall update you positively. — Zanai Bhosle (@ZanaiBhosle) April 11, 2026

Several members of the film industry have also shared messages wishing her a quick recovery, reflecting the deep respect she continues to command across generations of artists and audiences.

Widely regarded as one of India’s most influential playback singers, Asha Bhosle has had a career spanning decades and thousands of recordings across languages and genres. Messages of support continue to pour in as fans and well-wishers await further updates on her health.

Also Read: Asha Bhosle hospitalised due to exhaustion and chest infection, says granddaughter Zanai Bhosle

Asha Bhosle hospitalised due to exhaustion and chest infection, says granddaughter Zanai Bhosle

Hours after initial reports suggested that veteran singer Asha Bhosle had been hospitalised following a cardiac episode, her granddaughter Zanai Bhosle shared an update clarifying that the 92-year-old singer is currently receiving treatment for extreme exhaustion and a chest infection.

In a message posted on social media, Zanai requested privacy for the family while confirming that treatment is ongoing and that they remain hopeful about her recovery.

She wrote, “Extreme exhaustion and suffering a chest infection has been admitted to hospital and we request you to value our privacy. Treatment is ongoing and hopefully everything will be well and we shall update you positively.”

The clarification comes shortly after earlier reports had circulated about her hospitalisation, prompting concern among fans and members of the film and music industry. Zanai’s statement provided reassurance that the singer is under medical care and being closely monitored.

Several members of the film fraternity responded to the update with messages of support and prayers for her recovery. Anupam Kher commented, “Will pray for her good health,” while Shabana Azmi wrote, “Wishing her a quick recovery and sending you a big hug.” Sanjay Kapoor also shared his wishes, writing, “Wishing her a speedy recovery.”

Widely regarded as one of India’s most influential playback singers, Asha Bhosle has remained deeply respected across generations of listeners. News of her hospitalisation led to an outpouring of concern online, with fans continuing to share messages of support as they await further updates on her health.

Also Read: Asha Bhosle, 92, hospitalised after suffering cardiac arrest: Report

Asha Bhosle, 92, hospitalised after suffering cardiac arrest: Report

Veteran playback singer Asha Bhosle was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital on Saturday after reportedly suffering a cardiac arrest. The 92-year-old singer is currently undergoing treatment in the hospital’s Emergency Medical Services unit.

According to reports citing hospital sources and news agency IANS, the singer experienced the cardiac episode earlier in the day and was subsequently shifted to the south Mumbai hospital for immediate medical care. Doctor Pratit Samdani confirmed that she is receiving treatment in the emergency unit.

Further medical details about her condition have not been officially shared so far, and hospital authorities are yet to issue a detailed health bulletin.

Widely regarded as one of India’s most celebrated playback singers, Asha Bhosle has had a career spanning several decades and recorded thousands of songs across multiple languages and genres. Her contributions to Indian cinema and music have earned her enduring recognition both in India and internationally.

Updates on her condition are awaited as doctors continue to monitor her health.

Also Read: Tabu reveals Asha Bhosle gifted her a guitar on her birthday : “Some moments stay with you forever”

Ahaan Panday becomes first India brand ambassador for Davidoff Parfums

For the first time ever, Davidoff Parfums announces actor Ahaan Panday as its First Brand Ambassador for India, marking a historic milestone in the brand’s journey in one of its most dynamic markets. For decades, Davidoff has held a special place in India’s fragrance landscape. Recognized and widely admired, the brand has long held cult status across urban India, and is now embarking on a bold and exciting new chapter in its journey in the country.

Rooted in the pioneering spirit of founder Zino Davidoff, the brand has always stood for adventure, refinement, and living life with intensity. Through this partnership, Davidoff aims to strengthen its cultural presence in India and build ties with a new generation of fragrance enthusiasts.

Sharing his excitement, Ahaan Panday said, “Davidof parfums is one of those brands I’ve always associated with memories growing up. Cool water was probably the first perfume I ever tried, to now be named Davidoff’s first Brand Ambassador for India feels incredibly special, and a little surreal. I’ve always seen Davidoff as a symbol of confidence and staying true to who you are. That mindset really resonates with where I am in life right now, which makes this association even more meaningful and I’m proud to be a part of it.”

Ahaan Panday brings a fresh energy to the brand in India, embodying the contemporary Davidoff man: self-assured yet carefree, ambitious yet grounded, bold in spirit yet refined in style. With a strong connection to Gen Z and millennial audiences, combined with his natural charisma and global outlook, makes him a compelling local ambassador to translate Davidoff Parfum's “gentleman adventurer” philosophy into the Indian cultural landscape.

The appointment coincides with the introduction of Davidoff’s latest global fragrance launch, Cool Elixir: The New Oud Treasure, a bold, long-lasting composition that reinterprets freshness with depth and intensity. Featuring a noble oud accord layered with lavandin absolute and rose oxide, Cool Elixir reflects Davidoff’s evolution towards more sensorial, elevated expressions of modern masculinity, while staying true to the brand’s iconic freshness heritage.

With Ahaan Panday at the forefront, Davidoff parfums embarks a confident new era for the brand in India

Also Read: Mohit Suri reveals he rejected Ahaan Panday multiple times for Saiyaara: “I didn’t find him like Krish Kapoor at all”