Friday, June 5, 2026

EXCLUSIVE: As Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai hits theatres, Tips Films wraps its next starring Pulkit Samrat

As Tips Films celebrated the release of David Dhawan’s Varun Dhawan-Mrunal Thakur-Pooja Hegde starrer Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai yesterday, June 5, the production house has already completed filming an exciting upcoming project. The banner’s next film, starring Pulkit Samrat and directed by Sneha Taurani, has officially wrapped principal photography.

According to sources, the film has completed its shoot, with only a song sequence remaining to be filmed. The project has now entered its final phase of production, bringing it one step closer to audiences.

The development highlights Tips Films’ busy and ambitious slate. Even as Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai arrives in theatres, the banner has quietly wrapped another significant project, ensuring its momentum continues well beyond its latest release.

The film also marks an exciting collaboration between Pulkit Samrat, director Sneha Taurani and producer Ramesh Taurani. Though the makers have yet to officially unveil the project, industry circles have been closely tracking its progress ever since reports surfaced that Pulkit would be headlining the film.

For Pulkit, the wrap comes at a particularly exciting time. The actor recently earned appreciation for his performance in Netflix’s sports-cum-mystery web series, Glory, where he impressed audiences with a strikingly different avatar. The positive response has further strengthened anticipation around his upcoming projects, including this collaboration with Tips Films.

With Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai now playing in theatres and Pulkit Samrat’s film wrapped, Tips Films appears to be seamlessly transitioning from one major project to the next, reinforcing its position as one of the industry’s most active production houses.

Also Read: “Count the tyres”: Pulkit Samrat drops BTS glimpse from Netflix’s sports thriller Glory


Peddi filmmaker Buchi Babu Sana issues apology after viewers call out Janhvi Kapoor’s hypersexualisation; promises to make changes in “concerned portions”

Filmmaker Buchi Babu Sana has issued a public apology after sections of the audience criticised certain scenes in Peddi, the recently released Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor starrer. The director said the feedback had been taken seriously and confirmed that changes would be made to the portions that have drawn objections. The statement came on June 6, two days after the film's release. Taking to social media, Buchi Babu addressed the growing debate surrounding the portrayal of Janhvi Kapoor’s character and the treatment of women in the film.

"As a filmmaker, I believe cinema should entertain, inspire, and connect with audiences. It should never make anyone feel uncomfortable or disrespected. We have heard the feedback regarding certain scenes in Peddi and have taken it seriously," he wrote on X.

The film has faced criticism from viewers and commentators who argued that Janhvi Kapoor’s character lacked depth despite being one of the central figures in the story. Several social media users also questioned the way certain scenes were filmed, alleging that the camera repeatedly focused on parts of the actor's body rather than the emotional context of the scenes.

Another major point of criticism involved the romantic track between the lead characters. Some viewers objected to scenes that appeared to portray non-consensual behaviour as romance, sparking discussions online about representation and storytelling in mainstream cinema.

Addressing these concerns, Buchi Babu clarified that disrespecting women was never the intention behind the film. "I have always had immense respect for women, both on and off screen, and it was never our intention to objectify or disrespect any female character. If any part of the film has been perceived that way, we respect those sentiments, understand the concerns being raised, and sincerely apologize," he stated.

The director further revealed that the team had reviewed the feedback and decided to make changes. "After reviewing the feedback, we have decided to make changes to the concerned portions," he wrote.

Buchi Babu also reflected on the evolving relationship between filmmakers and audiences. He acknowledged that audience responses play an important role in shaping cinema and stressed the responsibility storytellers carry. "Cinema grows through its connection with audiences, and as storytellers, we have a responsibility to be mindful of evolving perspectives and sensitivities."

As a filmmaker, I believe cinema should entertain, inspire, and connect with audiences. It should never make anyone feel uncomfortable or disrespected. We have heard the feedback regarding certain scenes in Peddi and have taken it seriously. I have always had immense respect for…

— BuchiBabuSana (@BuchiBabuSana) June 6, 2026

He concluded his note by reiterating his commitment to respectful representation. "Every woman deserves to be respected, valued, and represented with dignity. We remain committed to telling stories that celebrate strong characters and uphold those values."

Peddi, which stars Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor in the lead roles, opened to strong curiosity among audiences. However, the debate surrounding its portrayal of women has now become one of the most discussed aspects of the film. With the makers confirming edits, attention will be on how the revised version addresses the concerns raised by viewers.

Also Read: Peddi (Hindi) Opening Day Box Office Estimate: Ram Charan starrer opens at Rs. 3 crores


Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey to open IMAX ticket sales in India from June 8

On June 8, Indian fans will be amongst the first in the world to secure their seats for The Odyssey. Shot across the world using brand new IMAX® film technology, The Odyssey is the first feature film shot entirely with IMAX® cameras, opening in cinemas worldwide and across India on July 17, 2026.

Written and directed by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Christopher Nolan, the film brings Homer's foundational epic to the screen in a way that has never been attempted before. The story of Odysseus, King of Ithaca, and his perilous journey home after the fall of Troy is brought to life by Matt Damon as Odysseus, Tom Holland as Telemachus, and Anne Hathaway as Penelope, alongside Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong'o, Charlize Theron, and Jon Bernthal. The Odyssey opens in cinemas across India in all formats on July 17, 2026.

Speaking about the opening of IMAX ticket bookings for The Odyssey in India, Denzil Dias, Vice President and Managing Director, Warner Bros. Discovery India, said, "The Odyssey is the first film in cinema history to be shot entirely on IMAX cameras, a milestone Warner Bros. Discovery Indiaspent nearly twenty years working toward. On June 8, for the first time in India, Nolan fans will be amongst the first in the world to be able to book their favorite seats alongside their fellow Christopher Nolan fans around the world. For Nolan fans in India, this is a moment worth marking. For the first time, they book their seats alongside the rest of the world, for the first film in history made entirely on IMAX cameras."

IMAX tickets for The Odyssey are on sale from June 8, 2026. The Odyssey opens in cinemas across India from July 17, 2026. Written and directed by Christopher Nolan. Produced by Emma Thomas and Christopher Nolan for Syncopy. Universal Pictures India, distributed by Warner Bros. Discovery. In cinemas worldwide July 17, 2026.

Also Read: IMAX returns to Hyderabad after a decade with three new AMB Cinemas locations


Thursday, June 4, 2026

Preity Zinta launches jewellery brand Jacarti; Celina Jaitly, Bobby Deol and Iulia Vantur join celebrations: “Mother of all selfies”

Actor and entrepreneur Preity Zinta has ventured into the luxury jewellery space with the launch of her fine jewellery brand, Jacarti Jewellery. The actress recently inaugurated the brand’s new store in Mumbai’s Bandra neighbourhood, with several friends from the entertainment industry attending the celebration.

Among those present at the event were actors Celina Jaitly, Bobby Deol and Iulia Vantur. The gathering marked an important milestone for Zinta as she expands her professional portfolio beyond cinema and sports into the luxury retail sector.

Sharing moments from the launch on social media, Celina Jaitly congratulated Preity and praised the new collection. Posting a selfie from the event, she wrote, “CONGRATULATIONS PREITY. What a wonderful evening celebrating my darling friend Preity Zinta and the launch of her luxury fine jewellery brand, Jacarti Jewellery, and its beautiful new store in Bandra, Mumbai.”

Speaking about the collection, Celina added, “Preity, congratulations on this incredible milestone. The jewellery is absolutely phenomenal elegant, distinctive, and truly out of this world. Wishing you and the entire Jacarti team every success as this exciting new chapter unfolds.”

She also encouraged jewellery enthusiasts to explore the collection, writing, “Guys, if you are jewellery buffs, do go check out this stunning, dreamy collection in Bandra.”

 

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  A post shared by Celina Jaitly (@celinajaitlyofficial)

The actress further revealed that the evening doubled as a reunion with friends from the industry. “The evening was made even more special being reunited with Lord Bobby, my co-star from Shakalaka Boom Boom, and catching up with Jiju Gene,” she wrote, referring to Bobby Deol and Preity’s husband Gene Goodenough.

Meanwhile, singer and television personality Iulia Vantur also shared glimpses from the launch event. Congratulating Preity on her latest venture, she wrote, “Friends, diamonds, memories and laughter. I was happy to celebrate my friend Preity's new venture. She brings her sparkle in whatever she does.”

 

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  A post shared by Iulia V Vantur (@vanturiulia)

Meanwhile, on the acting front, Preity is gearing up for a major theatrical comeback with two highly anticipated films releasing later this year: Vibe (September 18) and Lahore 1947 (August 13).

Also Read: Kunal Kemmu’s second directorial Vibe locks September 18 release; Preity Zinta, Sparsh Shrivastava join cast


Hina Khan shares cryptic note amid Shilpa Shinde controversy; says, “Kindly release all the criminals who have confessed their crimes”

The controversy surrounding Shilpa Shinde’s recent confession about making false sexual harassment allegations against the producer of Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain continues to gather momentum. Days after publicly criticizing Shinde’s remarks, Hina Khan has once again shared a cryptic message on social media that many netizens believe is aimed at the actress.

Taking to her X, formerly known as Twitter, Hina posted a strongly worded note addressed to the highest offices in the country. The post quickly caught the attention of social media users, with many interpreting it as a response to Shinde’s recent video in which she defended her actions and addressed the criticism coming her way. Hina’s post read, “Honourable Prime Minister of India, Honourable President of India and the Law Minister of India, Kindly release all the criminals who have confessed their crimes after committing them because they have courage, because they are fighters, because they stand with truth, also because nobody supported them when they committed the crime.”

For real 🤦‍♀️ pic.twitter.com/ysod1001up — Hina Khan (@eyehinakhan) June 4, 2026

Although Hina did not mention anyone by name, the timing of the post has led many to connect it with the ongoing dispute involving Shilpa Shinde. The latest development comes shortly after Shinde released a video responding to the backlash she received following her appearance on Bharti Singh and Harsh Limbachiyaa’s podcast.

During the podcast, Shilpa admitted that she had made false sexual harassment allegations in the past against the producer of Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain, a revelation that triggered widespread discussion across social media and the television industry. Several celebrities and fans reacted strongly to her comments, with Hina Khan also expressing her disapproval through a lengthy social media statement.

In response, Shinde later shared a video in which she addressed her critics and maintained that she was speaking her truth. The actress also claimed that she should not be judged without understanding the circumstances behind her actions and insisted that she was prepared to face criticism for admitting her mistake.

The video further sparked debate online, with many users speculating that some of Shinde’s remarks were directed at former Bigg Boss contestants, including Hina Khan and late actor Siddharth Shukla.

Now, with Hina’s latest Instagram Story making waves online, the exchange appears far from over. While neither actress has directly named the other in their recent posts, social media users continue to dissect every statement as the controversy unfolds.

As reactions continue to pour in, the public spat has become one of the most talked-about topics in television circles, drawing attention from fans and industry insiders alike.

Also Read: Shilpa Shinde hits back at critics after her false harassment claim confession: “I fought alone then, I’m ready to fight alone today”


Alpha stars Alia Bhatt and Sharvari champion women’s cricket in powerful YRF-JioHotstar campaign ahead of ICC Women’s T20 World Cup

Yash Raj Films (YRF) and JioHotstar have come together for a unique campaign that merges two of India’s biggest passions—cinema and cricket. Ahead of the highly anticipated ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, the entertainment giant and the streaming platform unveiled a special promotional video featuring Alpha stars Alia Bhatt and Sharvari, celebrating the achievements of India’s women cricketers while delivering a powerful message about representation.

Released on June 4, the campaign cleverly blends the world of YRF Spy Universe’s upcoming action entertainer Alpha with the growing prominence of women’s cricket in India. The video opens with Alia Bhatt and Sharvari preparing for what appears to be a promotional interview for their upcoming film. During the interaction, the interviewer asks the actresses about their biggest inspirations.

Much to his surprise, both Alia and Sharvari credit the Indian Cricket Team for inspiring them. Assuming they are referring to the men’s team and its accomplishments, the interviewer begins discussing their achievements. However, the conversation takes an unexpected turn when the actresses start naming their favourite female cricketers instead.

The moment leaves the interviewer briefly puzzled before he refers to them as the “Indian Women’s Cricket Team.” Alia then steps in to make a significant point, insisting that they are simply the “Indian Cricket Team,” thereby questioning the need to differentiate the women’s side through a separate label. The subtle yet impactful message highlights the growing stature of women’s cricket and advocates equal recognition for female athletes.

The campaign forms a key part of the promotional activities surrounding the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, which will stream live on JioHotstar and be broadcast on Star Sports. The initiative has already garnered attention for creatively using the popularity of Bollywood and cricket to spark conversations around gender equality in sports.

 

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  A post shared by Star Sports India (@starsportsindia)

Meanwhile, excitement continues to build around Alpha, which marks the first female-led commercial spy thriller from the YRF Spy Universe. The film will feature Alia Bhatt and Sharvari in action-packed avatars unlike anything audiences have seen from them before.

Directed as a high-octane entertainer, Alpha also boasts an impressive ensemble cast including Bobby Deol and Anil Kapoor. Additionally, Hrithik Roshan is expected to make a special appearance as fan-favourite spy Kabir, further connecting the film to the larger YRF Spy Universe.

With its blend of action, scale, and star power, Alpha is one of the most anticipated Bollywood releases of the year and is slated to hit theatres on July 3.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Alpha won’t have India-Pak spy friendship angle; Alia Bhatt’s assassin origin story to break the usual spy-film tropes of joint missions by two countries!


Shilpa Shinde hits back at critics after her false harassment claim confession: “I fought alone then, I’m ready to fight alone today”

Shilpa Shinde has once again found herself at the centre of a controversy after her recent confession about making false sexual harassment allegations against the producer of the popular sitcom Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain. While her revelation sparked widespread debate across social media, it also drew criticism from several celebrities, fan clubs, and netizens, prompting the actress to issue a fresh response.

Taking to Instagram, Shilpa shared a video in which she addressed the backlash she has been receiving ever since her comments resurfaced in public discourse. Although she refrained from naming any individual, the actress took aim at those who have been questioning her motives and targeting her online. She said, “I was questioned – ‘What's up, Shilpa Shinde? You weren't on social media then, but you are on social media today’. I don't know when people will stop gaining publicity in my name. But don't get on the moving train, you'll get hurt.”

Shilpa added, “To gain publicity, you have your own diseases, the people who have died at home. So why do you need Shilpa Shinde? You are already very publicised. Don’t dig up old graves”, she said. The actress further addressed those revisiting past controversies, insisting that she had spoken up now because she wanted to correct the record. She continued, “If you want to dig up the past, let me remind you that I am alive. Even then, I said with proof. I hope may Lord give peace to his soul – the one who is not in this world. I don’t want to do this but let me tell you I will give such proof that even if you don't want to, you will hate that person. So don't tease. Let us all give peace to his soul.”

Explaining why she decided to speak publicly about the matter after several years, Shilpa said, “The biggest thing is that you don't know things. Stop shouting about it. If you had supported me at that time, this situation wouldn't have come today. After 9 years, we did work. No one told me to speak. But I am standing for a girl's father and a woman's husband. Because I lied. I can't live with a lie on my heart”. “If I had arrested them at that time, I would have been arrested myself today. It's my fault. I accept. But you don’t know why I did what I did. If you haven't read it, then read it. See Mahabharata. If you haven't seen it, then see it.”

 

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  A post shared by Shilpa Shinde (@shilpa_shinde_official)

The actress also accused critics of misrepresenting her statements and singled out the manner in which her comments have been discussed online. “But don’t come barking like a dog behind Shilpa Shinde. Even then, whatever I said about certain people was manipulated and presented – including my statement on Shubhangi Atre. Why are you after me? What do you want from me? I am living in peace. Why can't you see? Today I have spoken the truth. And for the truth, I am not afraid of anyone. Whoever wants to shout, can shout. Or assume whatever you want to assume,” she stated.

Shilpa went on to say that she has no regrets about speaking up despite the criticism and went on, “God forbid, whatever happened to me, shouldn’t happen to you. Because you will be able to live after that. You will not be seen in the world.” Recalling the scrutiny she faced in the past, she added, “I fought alone at that time. I am ready to fight alone today. It was said about me in Big Boss that I had returned to Big Boss's house after taking bail. So have you ever thought about what was done to me? You should think about it. Everything is crystal clear. And that's why I am not afraid of anyone to tell the truth.”

The actress concluded by appreciating those who supported her perspective following her appearance on Bharti Singh and Harsh Limbachiyaa’s podcast. “And today I have spoken the truth. Even after Bharti and Harsh's podcast, people said very good things. I appreciate this. Tomorrow people will not be afraid to speak the truth. But if such disgusting people shout, then no one will be able to speak the truth. Because in the world, lies are spoken with confidence. But not everyone can speak the truth,” she concluded.

Shilpa’s latest video has once again intensified discussions around her recent confession, with reactions continuing to pour in across social media platforms.

Also Read: Shilpa Shinde makes shocking confession about Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain row: “The sexual harassment case was false”


EXCLUSIVE: As Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai hits theatres, Tips Films wraps its next starring Pulkit Samrat

As Tips Films celebrated the release of David Dhawan’s Varun Dhawan-Mrunal Thakur-Pooja Hegde starrer Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai yesterda...