EXCLUSIVE: 3 Idiots returns to cinemas on September 4, 2026; NH Studioz seals landmark three-figure crore Vidhu Vinod Chopra Films catalogue acquisition

Last year, to celebrate Aamir Khan's 60th birthday, a special film festival was organized across cinemas, allowing moviegoers to revisit several of the superstar's iconic films, including Dangal, Lagaan, Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke, Raja Hindustani, Ghajini, Akele Hum Akele Tum, Andaz Apna Apna, Taare Zameen Par, Sarfarosh, Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar, Talaash, Fanaa, Dil Chahta Hai, Dil, PK, Dhoom 3, Rang De Basanti, Ghulam, Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak, Secret Superstar and Laal Singh Chaddha. However, one of his biggest and most celebrated films, 3 Idiots (2009), was notably absent from the line-up. Bollywood Hungama has now exclusively learned that the Rajkumar Hirani-directed blockbuster is finally set to return to cinemas, courtesy of NH Studioz.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, "N H Studioz, under the leadership of Shri Narendra Hirawat and Shreyans Hirawat, has pulled off one of the biggest catalogue acquisitions in recent times by securing the rights to a major slate of films from Vidhu Vinod Chopra Films. The deal is said to be worth a staggering three-figure crore amount."

The Vidhu Vinod Chopra Films catalogue acquired by NH Studioz includes Khamosh, Parinda, 1942: A Love Story, Kareeb, Mission Kashmir, Munna Bhai MBBS, Parineeta, Lage Raho Munna Bhai, Eklavya: The Royal Guard, 3 Idiots, Ferrari Ki Sawaari, PK, Broken Horses, Wazir, Sanju, Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga and Shikara.

The source further revealed, "As part of its strategic plans, N H Studioz is set to bring back the iconic blockbuster 3 Idiots to cinemas with a grand re-release on September 4, 2026, giving audiences an opportunity to experience one of Indian cinema's most beloved films on the big screen once again."

Interestingly, 3 Idiots will arrive in cinemas during the Teachers' Day week, making the timing particularly apt given the film's memorable portrayal of student life. The re-release also coincides with producer Vidhu Vinod Chopra's birthday, which falls on September 5, that is, the same day as Teachers' Day.

Today, N H Studioz boasts one of India's largest film libraries, with nearly 5,000 titles across multiple languages. The company continues to strengthen its presence in content ownership, distribution and production. It is also gearing up to produce an Akshay Kumar-starrer, besides another ambitious project with one of the industry's leading filmmakers.

Also Read: Aamir Khan’s 10-year-old video proves his stand on Sonam Wangchuk hasn’t changed; superstar had then said, “3 Idiots is based on Five Point Someone, not on any real-life person”

John Abraham buys bungalow for Rs. 84 crores in Mumbai’s Bandra West locality

Actor John Abraham has made a significant addition to his real estate portfolio by purchasing a premium bungalow in Mumbai's prestigious Bandra (West) neighbourhood. According to property registration documents reviewed by real estate consultancy firm Liases Foras, the transaction was officially registered on July 14, 2026.

Situated on St Martin Road in Bandra (West), one of Mumbai's most sought-after residential addresses, the freehold property has been acquired for a registered consideration of Rs. 84 crores            . The locality is known for its upscale residences and is home to several prominent personalities from the entertainment industry.

As per the registered documents, the property stands on a 1,017.60-square-metre plot and includes an existing bungalow with a built-up area of approximately 193.12 square metres. In addition, the premises also feature an outhouse measuring around 31.50 square metres.

The acquisition marks another notable high-value real estate transaction involving a Bollywood celebrity, with Bandra (West) continuing to remain one of the city's most preferred destinations for luxury residential investments.

While John Abraham largely keeps his personal life away from the spotlight, the actor has consistently made headlines for his work across diverse genres as well as his business ventures. Over the years, he has built a filmography that balances intense action entertainers, politically driven dramas, negative roles, and mainstream commercial cinema, earning appreciation for his versatility. The actor was recently seen in the political thriller The Diplomat, followed by the action-packed Tehran, further strengthening his reputation for choosing content-driven projects alongside commercial entertainers.

Looking ahead, John has an interesting lineup of films in the pipeline. He is set to portray Mumbai Police Commissioner Rakesh Maria in an upcoming untitled film based on the celebrated former police officer's life and career. The project has already generated considerable buzz among moviegoers eager to see the actor step into another real-life character.

Apart from that, fans can also look forward to seeing John reprise one of his most popular roles as ACP Yashvardhan Singh in Force 3, the third instalment of the successful action franchise. The film is expected to continue the high-octane action and intense storytelling that made the previous entries audience favourites.

With a major property acquisition and an exciting slate of films on the horizon, John Abraham continues to make headlines both on and off the screen.

Also Read: John Abraham accidentally says “I love you” after Orry’s word challenge; viral video leaves fans amused

Mrunal Thakur and Huma Qureshi starrer Pooja Meri Jaan set to stream on ZEE5 after four-year delay

After remaining unreleased for nearly four years, Pooja Meri Jaan, starring Mrunal Thakur and Huma Qureshi, is finally set to reach audiences through streaming. The thriller has officially found a platform on ZEE5, bringing an end to years of uncertainty surrounding its release. While the streaming service has announced the film as part of its upcoming content slate, the official premiere date is yet to be revealed.

Directed by Navjot Gulati and produced under Dinesh Vijan's Maddock Films banner, Pooja Meri Jaan was originally planned as a direct-to-digital release on JioCinema. However, following the merger of JioCinema with Disney+ Hotstar, the film's release plans were stalled, leaving its future uncertain for an extended period. The prolonged delay reportedly left both the cast and makers frustrated as the project remained in limbo.

Alongside Pooja Meri Jaan, ZEE5 also announced an extensive Hindi content slate featuring several new films and series. Upcoming shows include Kambli, inspired by the life of former cricketer Vinod Kambli, The Scam: Leaked, Coffee King, Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai 2.0 hosted by R. Madhavan, and the return of the classic Zee Horror Show. Popular franchises such as Rangbaaz, Janaawar, and Bakaiti are also returning with new seasons.

The platform's film lineup includes Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai starring Varun Dhawan, Pooja Hegde and Mouni Roy, Bandar featuring Bobby Deol and Sanya Malhotra, Kangana Ranaut's Bharat Bhagya Vidhata, Vaani Kapoor's Sarvgunn Sampann, as well as Ghamasaan, Ikroop, and Dalimb.

Earlier this year, director Navjot Gulati spoke about the emotional and professional impact of the prolonged delay. He revealed that his father, who passed away in 2024, spent the final months of his life asking when the film would be released. The filmmaker also alleged that co-producer Amar Kaushik stopped responding to his calls and messages after October 2025. Navjot claimed the film was held back due to a pricing dispute, alleging that Maddock Films was unwilling to sell it below its expected valuation. He further questioned why a theatrical release was never explored, citing Vadh 2 as an example of an OTT-backed film that eventually made it to cinemas.

According to Navjot, the delay has adversely affected his career, as producers have become hesitant to collaborate with him while his completed debut film remained unreleased. He even expressed willingness to buy back the film himself if the producers chose not to move forward. Pooja Meri Jaan explores the themes of stalking and cybercrime and also stars Vikram Singh Chauhan and Vijay Raaz in pivotal roles. The film completed shooting and post-production by the end of 2022.

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

BREAKING: Kunal Kohli follows Shekhar Kapur’s footsteps; makes international debut with haunting English film All About Her

Kunal Kohli, who made a mark with films like Hum Tum (2004) and Fanaa (2006), has now taken a leap, graduating to making international films. In June, he wrapped up the shoot of a British English feature film, All About Her. It stars Hollywood actor Nick Sagar, best known for his role in The Princess Switch film franchise. The female lead is played by British actress Amelia Gething, who caught attention with her performances in Emily and The Spanish Princess.

Kunal Kohli opened up about All About Her in an interview with Bombay Times last month. He said, “Directing an English film and working with a full British and international crew is a whole new chapter in my life. Shekhar Kapur has always been my inspiration, and I am hoping this starts a trend of more Indian filmmakers working globally. Though English is not my first language, the experience of directing a film in English has been incredibly rewarding.”

He also said, “Shooting a film in the UK with British actors and crew gave me a great deal of creative freedom. Direct interaction with the actors helped bring the characters to life on screen exactly as I had envisioned, in complete sync with Amelia and Nick. Although I was new to their industry, the actors placed their trust in me and together we created an incredible cinematic journey that we are excited to share with audiences across the world.”

All About Her is produced by Sheetal Parab. An intriguing first-look teaser poster was dropped on June 5 and the caption with the picture read, ‘A haunting psychological drama where love, guilt and identity blur into one dangerous truth’. According to a Bombay Times report, the makers plan to premiere the film at various film festivals before its release.

About Kunal Kohli

Kunal Kohli began as a film critic in the 90s and then hosted the TV show 'Chalo Cinema'. After making several music videos, he debuted as a feature film director with Mujhse Dosti Karoge (2002), starring Hrithik Roshan, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Rani Mukerji. However, it was his second film, Hum Tum (2004), which made him a director to watch out for. The Saif Ali Khan-Rani Mukerji starrer was loved for its performances, music and fresh treatment, which resonated big time with the emerging multiplex audience.

Kunal’s next directorial, Fanaa (2006), starring Aamir Khan and Kajol, emerged as a major box-office success. He later directed Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic (2008) and Teri Meri Kahaani (2012), while also producing Break Ke Baad (2010). In 2018, he ventured into Telugu cinema with Next Enti, starring Tamannaah Bhatia. The same year, 2018, he turned actor with his production, Phir Se, co-starring Jennifer Winget and Sumona Chakravarti. It was one of the first Indian films to release directly on Netflix.

In the post-pandemic era, Kunal Kohli directed Lahore Confidential (2021) and Bobby Aur Rishi Ki Love Story (2025), both of which had a direct release on OTT.

Also Read: Kunal Kohli says “biggest directors” expected Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar to slow down after Monday

72nd National Film Awards: Randeep Hooda wins Best Debut Director for Swatantrya Veer Savarkar, says “I’m still trying to process it”

Randeep Hooda has added another milestone to his career as he won the Best Debut Director award at the 72nd National Film Awards for Swatantrya Veer Savarkar. The actor, who directed, co-wrote, co-produced and headlined the 2024 biographical drama, reacted to the recognition with a heartfelt statement, describing the honour as a moment he is "still trying to process."

Sharing his thoughts after the announcement, Randeep said, “Being announced as the winner of the National Award for Best Debut Director for Swatantrya Veer Savarkar is a moment I’m still trying to process. This film asked more of me than anything I’ve ever done. The journey of this film was filled with challenges at every juncture, but I’m glad we saw it through and overcame each of those. And despite that, somehow we kept finding the strength to move forward.”

The actor went on to speak about the multiple responsibilities he undertook while making the film and the sense of responsibility he felt towards portraying Vinayak Damodar Savarkar's life on screen. “As an actor, co-writer and first-time director, I gave this film everything I had because I felt an immense responsibility towards telling Veer Savarkar’s story with sincerity and honesty. Whatever we endured while making this film is insignificant compared to the life he lived and the sacrifices he made,” he added.

Expressing gratitude to his collaborators, Hooda stated, “I’m deeply grateful to my entire team for believing in this dream and standing by it through every high and low. This recognition belongs to all of us, and I hope it inspires more people, especially the younger generation, to discover and reflect on Veer Savarkar’s legacy.”

Released in theatres on March 22, 2024, Swatantrya Veer Savarkar is a Hindi-language biographical drama based on the life of freedom fighter and political thinker Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. The film was directed, co-written and co-produced by Randeep Hooda, who also portrayed the titular role. Written by Utkarsh Naithani, the narrative traces Savarkar's journey from his early years to his role in India's freedom movement, highlighting key events from his life.

The film received praise for its performances, particularly Hooda's portrayal of Savarkar, with the actor undergoing a significant physical transformation for the role.

The Best Debut Director honour at the 72nd National Film Awards marks a significant achievement for Hooda, recognising his first outing behind the camera while adding another accolade to Swatantrya Veer Savarkar, a film that saw him take on multiple creative responsibilities.

Also Read: Randeep Hooda reveals Salman Khan advised him to avoid non-heroic roles: “Playing the same thing is boring”

The India Story trailer out! Kajal Aggarwal and Shreyas Talpade take on pesticide farming crisis in hard-hitting social drama

The makers of The India Story: Slow Poison in Progress have unveiled the official trailer of the upcoming social drama, offering a glimpse into a story centred around the issue of pesticide farming and its impact on society. Starring Kajal Aggarwal and Shreyas Talpade in the lead, the film aims to bring attention to a subject that affects millions while weaving it into a dramatic narrative of truth, justice and resilience.

The trailer hints at an emotionally charged story that follows characters caught in the middle of a larger crisis, while raising questions about the long-term effects of pesticide farming. With its blend of courtroom drama, social commentary and emotional conflict, the film seeks to spotlight an issue that often remains overlooked.

Speaking about the film, director Chettan DK said, "The India Story is more than just a film—it's a conversation we need to have. Through this story, we wanted to shine a light on an issue that silently impacts every household. The trailer offers a glimpse into a powerful journey of truth, courage, and resilience, and we hope it inspires audiences to question, reflect, and engage with the reality around them."

Sharing her experience of working on the project, Kajal Aggarwal said, "Being part of The India Story has been an incredibly meaningful experience. My character stands up for truth despite overwhelming odds, and that spirit is what makes this film so special. I hope the trailer connects with audiences and leaves them eager to witness this powerful story on the big screen."

 

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Shreyas Talpade also spoke about the film and its emotional core, adding, "The trailer captures the emotional core of The India Story. It's a story of an ordinary man's fight against an extraordinary challenge, driven by hope and determination. I believe audiences will relate to its emotions and message, and I'm excited for everyone to experience the film in theatres on July 24."

The project is backed by co-producers Swati Vinayak Saindane, Anita Jadhav, Vinayak Saindane, Kalpesh Shah, Devyani Khorate and Prem Joshi. The technical crew includes cinematographer Nishant Bhagwat, music composer Mangesh Dhakde, editor Ashish Mhatre, lyricist Shakeel Azami and sound designer Anmol Bhave.

Presented by Zee Studios in association with MIG Production & Studios, The India Story: Slow Poison in Progress is directed by Chettan DK and written and produced by Sagar B. Shinde. The film is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on July 24, 2026, and will release in Hindi, Telugu and Tamil.

With its socially relevant premise and multilingual release, the film aims to spark conversations around a pressing agricultural and public health issue when it arrives in cinemas on July 24.

Also Read: First song from The India Story featuring Kajal Aggarwal Kitchlu ‘Tu Chal’ out now

Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda celebrate Saiyaara first anniversary at Wembley Stadium; unveil exclusive Collectors Edition Vinyl LP

A year after Saiyaara emerged as one of the biggest box office successes, Yash Raj Films marked the film's first anniversary with a special celebration at London's Wembley Stadium. Lead actors Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda visited the iconic venue to unveil an exclusive Collector's Edition Vinyl LP, commemorating the film's music and its enduring popularity among audiences.

The venue holds special significance in Saiyaara, as it serves as the backdrop for one of the film's most memorable moments, where Ahaan Panday's character Krish Kapoor recognises Vaani Batra through her eyes on the stadium's giant screen. The film's climactic reunion between Krish and Vaani also takes place at Wembley, making it a fitting location for the anniversary celebration.

The newly launched Collector's Edition is a two-disc vinyl set featuring the complete musical experience of Saiyaara. The first LP includes all nine songs from the film's soundtrack, while the second disc comprises 25 tracks, including 16 original background score compositions and nine memorable dialogues from the film.

 

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Beyond the music, the Collector's Pack also includes a specially curated Saiyaara diary featuring notes from YRF CEO Akshaye Widhani, director Mohit Suri, actors Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda, along with contributions from composers, lyricists and members of the film's music team. The package also contains an exclusive ink pen inspired by Vaani's notebook from the film and two character-themed bookmarks featuring Krish and Vaani.

Speaking about the launch, director Mohit Suri said, "Music is the soul of any love story - be it in life or in films. With Saiyaara, I felt that even more. The depth in Krish and Vaani’s relationship, the everlasting feeling, the innocence, and the magic wouldn’t be the same without the songs. I am truly grateful and overwhelmed for the love people have shown the film because of its music. Vaani said (in the film), ‘The mind forgets but the heart doesn’t, and great music stays in the heart…. forever!’ And it’s amazing that the music has stayed with you long after the film. The feeling is surreal, because the core of Saiyaara was always the fact that a song has the power to take you back to a moment, bring back a memory… bring back love! That's why this LP isn't just a collection of tracks. It’s a chance for people to experience the film all over again—one emotion, one melody, and one memory at a time. We thought very carefully about every single aspect of this record to bring your Saiyaara experience back to life! I really hope you love it."

Further, YRF CEO Akshaye Widhani added, "Saiyaara was a deeply personal film for us because it marked our return to romance, a genre that has always defined YRF and inspired some of our most sweeping love stories. We wanted to deliver not just a film but also a music album that is timeless in this genre and I have to thank Mohit Suri for delivering this in spades. As we celebrate Saiyaara's first anniversary, we are delighted to mark the occasion with the launch of an exclusive Collector's Edition Vinyl LP, giving fans and music lovers the ultimate Saiyaara listening experience through its music, it’s sounds and its dialogues. We wanted to create something that they could own, revisit and treasure for years to come, a definitive keepsake that preserves the complete emotional journey of Saiyaara.”

Directed by Mohit Suri and produced by YRF CEO Akshaye Widhani, Saiyaara emerged as a major commercial success, grossing over Rs. 580 crores worldwide. The film also established Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda as one of the industry's most talked-about on-screen pairs. The Saiyaara Collector's Edition Vinyl LP will be made available to fans worldwide.

Also Read: 1 year of Saiyaara EXCLUSIVE: “That Friday changed everything for me, I took 2-3 months to digest the success,” says Shaan R Grover; also reveals how Ahaan Panday calmed his nerves before shoot: “He advised me to forget it’s a YRF film”