Singer-Composer Leslee Lewis makes Bollywood playback comeback after 26 years

Veteran singer-composer Leslee Lewis is set to make a comeback as a playback singer in Hindi cinema after a gap of 26 years, marking a significant moment in his long musical journey. Known for shaping India’s Indi-pop movement in the 1990s, Lewis is returning with the song Zorr Ka Dhakka, which will mark his re-entry into Bollywood playback singing.

Lewis rose to national fame as part of the iconic duo Colonial Cousins alongside Hariharan. Their fusion of Indian classical and Western pop in the mid-1990s helped redefine the independent music scene in India and earned them international recognition, including the MTV Asia Viewer’s Choice Award and the Billboard Viewer’s Choice Award.

Speaking about his return, Lewis shared his excitement about reconnecting with Bollywood after decades. “I was relevant then and I’m still relevant now,” he said while discussing his comeback and his continued passion for music. He added that singing for a composition by another musician after so many years feels refreshing and gives him the opportunity to explore a different creative process.

Over the years, Lewis has remained active in music through independent projects, composing advertising jingles and working on various albums and collaborations. His contribution to India’s pop and fusion music landscape extends beyond Bollywood, with several successful independent releases and musical experiments. Reflecting on the evolution of the music industry, Lewis noted that while trends may change, the essence of music remains the same. “What keeps you going is authenticity and passion,” he said, emphasising that originality continues to matter in an industry often driven by formulas. With his upcoming playback track, the veteran musician hopes to reconnect with audiences across generations.

Also Read: Leslee Lewis on returning to playback singing in Hindi films after 26 years with ‘Zorr Ka Dhakka’, “It’s exciting to be back, whole track is so cool”; also says he has been putting “zero efforts” to stay relevant for 30 years

Alia Bhatt, Sharvari starrer Alpha locks July 10, 2026 for its theatrical release

The upcoming YRF Spy Universe film Alpha, starring Alia Bhatt and Sharvari, has officially locked its theatrical release date. The much-anticipated spy thriller is scheduled to hit cinemas on July 10, 2026, marking a significant addition to the blockbuster franchise created by Yash Raj Films.

Directed by Shiv Rawail, Alpha is expected to be the first female-led installment in the YRF Spy Universe, which previously delivered major box-office successes with films such as Pathaan and War 2. The film places two women at the centre of a high-octane espionage narrative, expanding the scope of the franchise that has so far largely revolved around male protagonists.

While the makers have kept specific plot details under wraps, the film is described as a gritty, globe-trotting espionage thriller. The narrative reportedly follows Alia Bhatt and Sharvari as elite secret agents undertaking a high-stakes mission. Unlike some of the more stylised entries in the spy franchise, Alpha is said to adopt a rugged and raw aesthetic, focusing on a more grounded and intense depiction of field intelligence operations.

 

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The film also brings together a strong ensemble cast. With Alia, Sharvari leading the narrative, Bobby Deol is set to play the primary antagonist. The actor’s role was previously teased through a brief appearance in the post-credits sequence of War 2. Veteran actor Anil Kapoor will also be seen in the film, portraying Vikrant Kaul, a senior intelligence official within the story’s spy network. Additionally, Hrithik Roshan is expected to make a special appearance, reprising his role as Major Kabir Dhaliwal, further connecting the film with the broader timeline of the YRF Spy Universe.

Behind the scenes, the screenplay has been written by Shridhar Raghavan, who has been associated with several action-driven projects. The film is being mounted on a large scale, with extensive action set pieces and visual effects work forming a key part of its cinematic experience.

Alpha has seen multiple shifts in its release schedule. The film was initially slated for a Christmas 2025 release before being moved to April 17, 2026. The project has now settled on the July 10, 2026 date, allowing the makers additional time to complete its extensive visual effects work.

Addressing speculation surrounding the delay, a YRF spokesperson said the team wanted to ensure the film was presented at its best possible scale, adding that Alpha is being mounted as a major theatrical spectacle and that the studio aims to present it in its most cinematic form.

Also Read: Aditya Chopra makes way for Salman Khan, moves Alpha from April 17th for Battle of Galwan!

Darsheel Safary joins Mohit Raina and Priya Mani in upcoming international film based on a true story

Actor Darsheel Safary has officially joined the cast of an upcoming cross-border international feature film that also stars Mohit Raina and National Award-winning actor Priya Mani. The yet-untitled project is being mounted as a global co-production between Mumbai-based Azure Entertainment and US-based Red Bison Productions.

The film will mark the first on-screen collaboration between Mohit Raina and Priya Mani, bringing together two performers known for their work across both theatrical cinema and streaming platforms. With Darsheel Safary joining the ensemble, the project brings together actors from different cinematic spaces, spanning mainstream films, prestige streaming content, and internationally recognised storytelling formats.

According to the makers, the film is positioned as a premium international project and is expected to be released on a global streaming platform. The story will reportedly explore themes of identity, resilience, and human connection across borders while blending cinematic scale with intimate human drama.

Darsheel Safary, who gained worldwide recognition with his debut performance in Taare Zameen Par, is said to play a key role in the narrative. Sources close to the production indicate that his character will act as an emotional bridge between the Indian and international worlds portrayed in the film, forming a central part of the story’s emotional arc.

Speaking about joining the project, Darsheel Safary shared, “This story moved me deeply. It speaks about courage, vulnerability, and choices that define who we become. I’m grateful to be part of a film that transcends geography and speaks to universal emotions.”

The untitled feature is based on a true story and will follow the emotional journey of an immigrant family navigating questions of identity, belonging, and life beyond the traditional idea of the American Dream. The narrative is described by the makers as intimate yet cinematic, focusing on themes that resonate across cultures and geographies.

The project is written and directed by Harsh Mahadeshwar and is currently in advanced pre-production. Principal photography is scheduled to commence later this year, with the film expected to be shot across multiple international locations. The production will be backed by an international team spanning India and the United States, with the makers aiming to combine high production values with a global distribution strategy.

Azure Entertainment, known for producing films such as Badla, Kesari, and Rocky Handsome, is collaborating with Red Bison Productions to bring the story to the screen. With its cross-border narrative and internationally mounted production, the film aims to appeal to audiences both in India and overseas.

Also Read: Mohit Raina and Priya Mani to star in first Indo-Hollywood collaboration by Azure Entertainment and Red Bison

Priyanka Chopra recalls piercing her belly button in the back of a cab: “I was that quintessential 90s girl”

Priyanka Chopra recently reflected on her early journey from beauty pageants to global stardom. Speaking on the Going Rogue podcast, the actor looked back at her teenage years and how quickly life changed after entering the world of pageants.

Priyanka first stepped into the spotlight when she participated in the Femina Miss India competition as a teenager. She later went on to win the prestigious Miss World 2000 title at the age of 18, a victory that transformed her life and launched her career in the entertainment industry.

Recalling that phase, Priyanka said she had no modelling experience when she entered the pageant and the entire process felt overwhelming for someone so young. The sudden exposure and responsibilities forced her to mature quickly.

Talking about her personal style during those years, Priyanka admitted that she was not particularly fashion-focused growing up. She said, “I wasn’t a fashion girl growing up. I was that quintessential 90s girl.”

She also shared a humorous memory about her love for belly button piercings at the time. Priyanka revealed that she once ended up piercing it again while travelling in a cab. “I loved my belly button ring. I had to get it re-pierced once in the back of a cab,” she recalled.

Looking back, the actor described those years as a time of rapid change and learning. Winning Miss World at such a young age brought global attention and opportunities, but it also required her to grow up quickly and adapt to a new life in the spotlight.

Also Read: Priyanka Chopra calls Kenya shoot with Mahesh Babu for SS Rajamouli’s ‘Varanasi’ a “Crazy Experience”

Badshah apologises for ‘Tateeree’ row, says “The song is being taken down from all platforms”

Rapper Badshah has issued a public apology after facing backlash over the lyrics of his recently released track ‘Tateeree’. The controversy emerged after several women’s organisations objected to portions of the song, alleging that the lyrics were offensive and disrespectful to women.

On March 7, the rapper took to Instagram to share an apology video addressing the concerns. In the caption accompanying the video, he also stated that the track was being removed from digital platforms. He wrote, “The song is being taken off from everywhere.”

In the video, Badshah clarified his intentions behind the lyrics and expressed regret for the offence caused. He said, “My new song ‘Tateeree’ has been released, and I’ve noticed that a part of my lyrics and its visual representation have conveyed a message that has hurt the sentiments of many people, especially people from Haryana. First of all, I want to say that I myself am from Haryana. Those who know me are aware that my language, my food, my lifestyle, and my identity come from Haryana. I am a proud Haryanvi. I never had any intention or purpose of saying anything inappropriate about any child or woman from Haryana.”

Explaining the context of the lyrics, the rapper added that the lines were written in line with the competitive nature of hip-hop music. He said, “I come from the hip-hop genre, where lyrics are often aimed at putting down competitors. They are directed at rivals. It was never meant for any woman or child, and I would never do that. I have always tried to carry Haryana’s culture with me wherever I go. If anyone has been hurt, I sincerely apologise from the bottom of my heart. I hope you will forgive me, considering me as a son of Haryana—your own son.”

 

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The controversy intensified after several women’s organisations raised objections to the song’s lyrics and their visual representation. Some groups alleged that certain lines were indecent and amounted to disrespect towards women. Reports also suggested that references in the track were seen as misrepresenting educational institutions.

According to reports by ANI, an FIR dated March 6 was registered at the Cyber Police Station in Sector-20, Panchkula. The complaint was filed under Section 296 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) as well as Sections 3 and 4 of the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986.

Amid the ongoing controversy, Badshah’s apology and decision to remove the song from platforms appear to be an attempt to address the concerns raised by various groups and de-escalate the situation.

Also Read: Badshah faces summons from Haryana Women’s Commission over ‘Tateeree’ lyrics row: Report

Vivek Oberoi praises UAE leadership and Emirates crew amid Israel–Iran tensions: “Moved to tears”

Actor Vivek Oberoi has spoken about the situation in Dubai amid the ongoing tensions linked to the Israel–Iran conflict. After Lara Dutta shared her perspective earlier, Oberoi also took to social media to address his fans and followers, highlighting the efforts of the Government of the United Arab Emirates in supporting residents during the situation.

The actor shared a video on Instagram along with a note thanking the leadership and airline staff who helped maintain calm during the tense period. In the caption, he wrote, “My deepest gratitude to the UAE leadership, the frontline heroes, and the wings of @emirates for their incredible guardianship. It’s good to be back.”

In the video, Oberoi reflected on what the recent days felt like for residents of the country. He said, “For all of us from over 200 nationalities who live here, UAE is simply home. These past few days, as geopolitical tensions grew, the distance between where I was and where my family waited felt heavier than ever. Returning to Dubai, I felt every person on that Emirates plane had a silent story in their eyes.”

Speaking about the flight crew and the emotional atmosphere during the journey, he added, “Hats off to the Emirates crew for maintaining the calm and taking care of everyone with a smile despite their own fears. The moment we touched down, the atmosphere shifted from silent anxiety to a collective surge of relief. Walking through the terminal, I couldn't help but be moved to tears as I saw daughters throwing themselves into the parents' arms and fathers finally lifting their little ones into the air.”

 

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The actor also spoke about the anxiety he experienced while thinking about his children during the journey. “I had spent the entire journey with my own heart racing, my thoughts fixed entirely on my kids. A heartfelt thank you Emirates for being the bridge that brought us back together in a world that felt like it was shifting, you remained constant. Thank you for the safety you carry in your wings and for providing the quiet peace we all needed to find our way back.”

Expressing gratitude to the country’s leadership, Oberoi further said, “Today, I am more grateful than ever for the resilience of the UAE government in the face of global uncertainty. Your steady leadership and unwavering calm provided the safety we needed to come back. You have built a nation that doesn't just function, it protects.”

He concluded his message by acknowledging the country’s support for Indian residents. “As a proud Indian, on behalf of all the Indians settled in the UAE, thank you for keeping us safe and for standing with us as one of us rather than just meeting from a distance. Thank you.”

Oberoi’s post comes as several public figures continue to share their experiences and messages of reassurance for residents amid the evolving geopolitical situation in the region.

Also Read: Lara Dutta reveals stressful days in Dubai amid Israel–Iran conflict; thanks UAE government for protection

BREAKING: Dhurandhar: The Revenge to have paid previews on March 18 from 5:00 pm onwards

Dhurandhar (2025) is the biggest grosser of Hindi cinema and the excitement is historic for the sequel, Dhurandhar: The Revenge. The film releases in less than two weeks and if that looks like a long wait, here’s some good news for you.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Dhurandhar: The Revenge is scheduled for a release on Thursday, March 18. As per the latest development, the film will have paid previews on Wednesday, March 18. Shows will commence from 5:00 pm onwards. There’s tremendous urgency to see the film and hence, Jio Studios and B62 Studios are confident that the film can see a record for the highest collections through paid previews.”

The source also confirmed, “The advance booking of Dhurandhar: The Revenge will commence tomorrow, Saturday, March 7, at 11:00 am.”

Dhurandhar: The Revenge stars Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna, R Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal, Sara Arjun, Rakesh Bedi and others. It is written and directed by Aditya Dhar.

Also Read: Ranveer Singh announces Dhurandhar: The Revenge trailer launch for March 7; actor asks fans to ‘brace themselves’