Harrdy Sandhu to headline new Punjabi film; Gadar 2 actress Simrat Kaur likely to star opposite

If sources are to be believed, the Pop sensation and actor Harrdy Sandhu is back to his roots as a lead. After last successful stint in Bollywood, Sandhu is set to lead an upcoming Punjabi feature film. The female lead considered opposite Harrdy is Simrat Kaur. As per the sources, the film marks for a fresh pairing and story like never before making this one of the most anticipated film in the Punjabi industry this year.

While Harrdy has dominated the global music charts, his return to Punjabi cinema marks a significant milestone. His journey in film has been a blend of high-octane drama and sports biopics and now will be seen in her soft boy Era and the fans can’t be more excited

Harrdy’s return to the Punjabi screen marks his lead in the regional industry since his last stint Mahi NRI in 2017. In the intervening years, he made a significant impact in Bollywood, earning widespread acclaim for his portrayal of legendary cricketer Madan Lal in the Ranveer Singh starrer '83 (2021), and most recently delivering a raw, intense performance opposite Parineeti Chopra in Code Name: Tiranga (2022).

The untitled project, backed by producer Siddhant Pilania, promises to bring a fresh cinematic flavour to the audience and the pairing adds up to the excitement amongst fans

While plot details are currently under wraps, the film is set to leverage Harrdy’s massive superstar appeal while leaning into the high-production value. With the deal already finalized, expectations are sky-high for this significant project.

Also Read: Harrdy Sandhu drops his latest track ‘Ki Haal Aa’, watch

Kerala HC seeks CBFC, producers’ response on plea to stay The Kerala Story 2 release

The Kerala High Court on Thursday issued notice to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and the producers of The Kerala Story 2 – Goes Beyond on a petition seeking cancellation of the film’s certification and a stay on its release.

The plea, filed by Kannur resident Sreedev Namboodiri, alleges that the upcoming sequel portrays Kerala in an unfair light and has the potential to incite communal and regional disharmony. The matter was heard by Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas, who directed the CBFC and the film’s producer, Sunshine Pictures, to file their responses. The case is scheduled for further hearing on February 24.

The Kerala Story 2 – Goes Beyond is the sequel to the controversial Hindi film The Kerala Story, which depicted a group of women from Kerala who were allegedly recruited into the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).

In his petition, Namboodiri has challenged the certification granted to the sequel, arguing that the CBFC failed to properly evaluate the film’s impact on public order, decency and morality as mandated under Section 5B of the Cinematograph Act, 1952.

The plea raises concerns over the teaser and trailer of the film. It points to the closing line in the teaser — “ab sahenge nahin… ladenge” (we will not tolerate it anymore, but will fight) — claiming that it amounts to a call for action that could trigger violence. The petition also alleges that certain dialogues and themes in the promotional material may provoke communal tensions.

According to the petitioner, while the teaser and trailer depict women from multiple States, the narrative continues to be branded as The Kerala Story, which he argues unfairly associates terrorism and forced conversion specifically with Kerala. The plea contends that such portrayal undermines the dignity and reputation of the people of the State and may infringe constitutional protections under Articles 14 and 21. It also argues that the certification overlooks the reasonable restrictions on free speech under Article 19(2).

The petitioner has sought quashing of the film’s certification, suspension of its release pending consideration of his revision petition, or directions for modifications to the film. These include reconsidering the title and inserting adequate disclaimers to avoid what he describes as regional vilification.

Also Read: Vipul Amrutlal Shah says The Kerala Story 2 is inspired by real court cases; reveals 6–7 months of research

Navjot Gulati SLAMS Maddock Films over delay of Pooja Meri Jaan release: “They don't care about the small films”

Filmmaker Navjot Gulati has alleged that his long-delayed film Pooja Meri Jaan remains unreleased due to ongoing pricing disagreements, revealing that his father’s last wish was to see the film before he passed away in 2024.

In an interview with Variety India, Gulati said his father repeatedly asked about the film’s release during the final months of his life. “He kept asking me ‘Kab aayegi teri Pooja’ and I kept telling him soon. But it was not to be,” Gulati shared, adding that his father died waiting for the film to see the light of day.

The director further claimed that the film’s co-producer, Amar Kaushik, has not responded to his calls or messages since October 2025. “I'm tired of calling and texting and yet not hearing back. The only reason I'm telling this to the world is because they refuse to have any sort of accountability,” he said.

According to Gulati, Pooja Meri Jaan has faced multiple postponements — first slated for 2024, then pushed to 2025, and now still awaiting release in February 2026. He stated that while a streaming platform has shown interest in acquiring the film, negotiations over pricing have continued for nine months without resolution, calling it an “unending cycle.”

The film was originally commissioned as an OTT release and was set to stream on JioCinema. However, after the platform merged with Disney+ Hotstar, the producers were reportedly informed that they could explore selling the film to other platforms.

Gulati alleged that the production house, Maddock Films, is holding out for a higher price. While he said he understands the commercial considerations, he questioned why alternative release strategies are not being considered. Referring to Luv Films’ recent release Vadh 2, which was originally commissioned for OTT but later released theatrically, Gulati asked why a similar approach could not be adopted for his film.

“They will never sell it unless they don't get the price they're looking for. The reality is, they are so consumed by big movies now that they don't care about the small films they have made,” he said.

Expressing his fears, Gulati added that he does not want Pooja Meri Jaan to meet the fate of Shoebite, directed by Shoojit Sircar, which remains unreleased despite years of discussion.

In a social media note shared in January last year, Gulati wrote about losing his father in November and described the lingering regret that he could not show him what he called his “life’s best work.” The post, tagged with actors Mrunal Thakur and Vikram Singh Chauhan, expressed hope that the film would eventually release.

As of now, the makers of Pooja Meri Jaan have not publicly responded to Gulati’s latest remarks.

Also Read: Maddock Films-backed Pooja Meri Jaan, Rumi Ki Sharafat, and Sarvagunn Sampanna face delays due to OTT valuation issues: Report

EXCLUSIVE: Vishal Bhardwaj reveals why Aamir Khan has been thanked in O'Romeo: “His suggestion changed so many things for me; wanted to thank Aamir from the BOTTOM of my heart”

Shahid Kapoor’s O'Romeo is having a decent run at the box office and is enjoying a good word of mouth. Moviegoers, who ventured out to see the film on the big screen, were surprised to see the mention of Aamir Khan in the opening disclaimer. Many expected that the superstar might have a cameo in the crime drama. However, Aamir is not present in the film and this made many moviegoers curious about his connection to O'Romeo.

Bollywood Hungama has learned the reason behind the special thanks to Aamir. Director Vishal Bhardwaj exclusively told us, “Aamir wanted to hear the script of O'Romeo. And when he heard it, he gave me this idea, that someone should be killed at a crucial point in the film.”

Vishal Bhardwaj further revealed, “Killing the lawyer Anjum Ansari (Resh Lamba) in the restaurant was his idea. This is the reason why I thanked him. This suggestion changed so many things for me. Because from there, the protagonist, Ustara (Shahid Kapoor) gets attracted towards the girl (Afshan, played by Triptii Dimri). He realizes, ‘Oh my God, she can do anything to exact revenge’. So, he starts taking her seriously and even nurses her back to health after she gets injured.”

Vishal Bhardwaj continued, “So, the whole love story starts from there. That was a big plot point for me. And that's why I wanted to thank Aamir from the bottom of my heart.”

Besides Shahid Kapoor, O'Romeo also stars Triptii Dimri, Nana Patekar and Avinash Tiwary while Vikrant Massey, Tamannaah Bhatia and Disha Patani feature in special appearances. It is produced by Sajid Nadiadwala. Incidentally, the enterprising and dashing producer celebrated his 60th birthday yesterday, on February 18.

As for Aamir Khan, he delivered the successful film, Sitaare Zameen Par (2025) last year and was also seen in an interesting cameo in Rajinikanth-starrer Coolie (2025). At present, he’s gearing up for Lahore 1947. While it features Sunny Deol and Preity Zinta in prominent roles, Aamir reportedly has an extended cameo. Directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, it also stars Ali Fazal, Shabana Azmi and others. Recently, Aamir Khan Productions announced that Lahore 1947 will be released on August 13 this year. Before the partition saga, the banner will also release Ek Din on May 1. It stars Junaid Khan and marks the debut of South sensation Sai Pallavi in Hindi cinema.

Also Read: O’Romeo actor Kashyap Shangari writes an emotional letter to Vishal Bhardwaj: “To become a part of your cinema, I have gathered a lifetime’s worth of treasure”

Sidharth Malhotra remembers father Sunil Malhotra in emotional note after his demise in Delhi: “Your integrity is my inheritance”

Actor Sidharth Malhotra is mourning the loss of his father, Sunil Malhotra, who passed away in Delhi on February 14. The actor shared the news with his followers through a heartfelt message on social media, accompanied by a series of family photographs reflecting moments from the past.

In his note, Sidharth described his father as a man defined by principle and quiet resilience. “He was a man of rare honesty, integrity and culture. He lived by values that never bent. Discipline without harshness. Strength without ego. Positivity, even when life tested him beyond measure,” he wrote.

Sunil Malhotra had served as a Merchant Navy Captain and, according to reports, had been unwell for some time. Sidharth acknowledged his father’s determination through illness, recalling the strength he displayed even after a stroke left him wheelchair-bound. “From commanding the seas as a Merchant Navy Captain to facing illness with quiet courage, he never compromised, never lost his grace. Even when the stroke confined him to a wheelchair, his spirit stood tall,” the actor shared.

Concluding his tribute, Sidharth expressed gratitude for the values he inherited from his father. “Papa, your integrity is my inheritance. Your strength guides me every day. Your positivity still holds this family together. You left us peacefully in your sleep, but the space you leave behind is immeasurable. I am who I am because of you. And I will carry your name, your values and your light forward always. Love you Dad.”

 

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  A post shared by Sidharth Malhotra (@sidmalhotra)

Members of the film fraternity extended their condolences in the comments section. Actress Rakul Preet Singh wrote, “May he be in a better place .. sending lots of love and strength to you and your family.” Soni Razdan commented, “This is so sad - so sorry for your loss. Losing a father is really hard. Take care of your mom and yourself.” Filmmaker Karan Johar and actors including Arjun Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra Jonas were among others who offered their support.

Fans also flooded social media with messages of sympathy, standing by the actor during this difficult time.

On the professional front, Sidharth was last seen in Param Sundari alongside Janhvi Kapoor. He is set to appear next in Vvan – Force of the Forest opposite Tamannaah Bhatia.

Also Read: Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia likely to film a folklore dance sequence for Vvan in Mumbai

Rajpal Yadav reacts after bail in Rs. 9 crores cheque bounce case: “Your support has been great on social media”

Rajpal Yadav spoke to ANI after being granted bail in the Rs 9 crores cheque bounce case linked to his 2010 production venture. Addressing the media, the actor chose not to delve into legal specifics, directing such queries to his counsel while reflecting on his three-decade journey in the film industry.

“If you want to get any legal information, you can ask our lawyer, Bhaskar Upadhyay. In general, I would like to say that it has been 30 years that I have been in Mumbai, Bollywood. I have been with the children of the whole world, that is why I was able to make 250 films. This story started in 2012-13. In 2026, I have made 250 films. India's every citizen - from children to the youth to the senior citizens everyone has space in my heart, everyone has stood by me and also the whole country. The truth that I had, what was my intention, all those things, whatever the High Court has ordered in the last 10 years, I have been present. I will be present wherever it will be ordered in the future. And I will not be able to tell you the legal words. You can ask Bhaskar. Your support has been great on social media. No, everyone's support. The people who are not on social media, they are also my supporters. Because I know that all the people who are loving me through social media, from childhood to the age of 55. I think there are 150 million people. So, our behavior must have been (good) with 150 million people. And with everyone else, we have a relationship of entertainment, blood circulation. And the way the whole world loved me, my Bollywood gave me love. If there is any accusation on me, then I am 100% available everywhere, at every corner. Please, please reply. Thank you, High Court. You have given me a chance to listen. Thank you so much.”

VIDEO | Cheque bounce case: After being released from Tihar Jail in Delhi, actor Rajpal Yadav (@rajpalofficial) says, "If you want to get any legal information, you can ask my advocate, but I want to say that my 30 years in Bollywood is going to complete in 2027, everyone was… pic.twitter.com/YvCazAQ5nL — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 17, 2026

The case stems from a financial dispute connected to his directorial venture Ata Pata Laapata, for which funds were borrowed in 2010. Over the years, the matter escalated into cheque bounce proceedings, with the outstanding amount reportedly rising due to accumulated interest and penalties.

Earlier this month, the High Court had taken note of delays in settlement before Yadav surrendered and was briefly sent back to jail. Following subsequent hearings, he has now been granted bail.

With the legal proceedings still underway, Yadav has reiterated that he will remain present as directed by the court and comply with future orders.

Also Read: Rajpal Yadav secures bail; lawyer says legal battle over 2010 film deal was “layered and confusing”

Rajpal Yadav secures bail; lawyer says legal battle over 2010 film deal was “layered and confusing”

Actor Rajpal Yadav was granted bail on Monday in connection with an ongoing financial dispute linked to his 2010 production venture. Speaking to Mumbai Mirror shortly after the court’s decision, his lawyer Bhaskar Upadhyay said that obtaining relief was a challenging process.

According to Upadhyay, the case traces back more than a decade and revolves around contractual arrangements tied to a film project produced by Yadav. Over the years, he explained, several agreements were executed, followed by a consent decree and additional legal proceedings, ultimately resulting in what he described as a complicated and multi-layered matter.

Commenting on his client’s understanding of the situation, Upadhyay said, "He is not a lawyer; he doesn't understand technicalities. He is an actor, a family man. Whenever the court asked, he simply said, Whatever I owe, I will pay," he shared, adding, "He himself had a lot at stake in that project. It's not like he walked away unaffected," Upadhyay said.

The lawyer further alleged that the complainant was intent on seeking imprisonment rather than financial recovery. "If it was only about money, they could have taken the security. But there was a malicious intent. The complainant said that 'We don't want this and just kindly execute the decree by sending him in jail'. This was categorically said by the complainants. If it was the issue of a money only then they must have taken the surety. He had given his original property documents. He surrendered it before the court stating the value of my property is more than 40 crores," he said.

Upadhyay also confirmed that part of the outstanding amount has already been arranged. He stated that Rs 2.5 crore has been mobilised towards the total sum under consideration. "He is trying, within his capacity, to honour what he has committed," he said, adding, "For him he was in the impression that that money was 5 crores. He has to pay back 5 crores. He never disputed that amount. But he just wanted the code to clarify. What about that money? Because this 5 crores was invested by the complainant in that movie, not given a personal loan to him for his personal needs."

There has also been speculation within industry circles that members of the film fraternity have extended assistance. While refraining from naming individuals, Upadhyay acknowledged the support. "Many are helping in his odd hours. The specifics are for him to share when the time is right," he said.

Despite the legal challenges, the lawyer maintained that Yadav remains composed. "He is strong. He says he will comply with court directions. His only request is that his side be properly heard," Upadhyay said.

Also Read: Rajpal Yadav gets temporary relief: Delhi High Court grants bail in Rs. 9 crores cheque bounce case to attend family wedding