Shilpa Shetty to host cooking reality show Maa Hai Na; Ssunita and Tina Ahuja to join as contestants

On the occasion of Mother’s Day, Shilpa Shetty announced her upcoming Zee5 reality show Maa Hai Na. The actress also revealed that the shoot for the show has already commenced, marking her latest venture into the non-fiction entertainment space.

Known for her association with wellness, fitness and food-related content, Shilpa appears set to headline a cooking-based reality format that aligns closely with her public image. Over the years, the actress has built a strong digital presence through her popular Sunday Binge videos and YouTube content centred around recipes and healthy eating.

According to reports surrounding the show, Maa Hai Na will feature a combination of celebrity contestants and social media personalities competing in various culinary challenges, games and entertainment segments. Shilpa Shetty will serve as the host of the series.

Among the names associated with the show are Ssunita Ahuja and Tina Ahuja, who are expected to participate as a mother-daughter duo. The pair will reportedly compete against other contestants in cooking tasks and interactive challenges designed around family dynamics and entertainment.

 

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There is also speculation that Tanya Mittal, who was last seen in Bigg Boss 19, may join the contestant lineup.

While Zee5 is yet to announce the premiere date of Maa Hai Na, the show is expected to blend cooking, celebrity interactions and family-oriented entertainment. For Shilpa Shetty, the project further expands her long-standing association with food and lifestyle content, now transitioning into a full-fledged reality show format on OTT.

Also Read: Ethnic Charm to Modern Sophistication: 6 times Shilpa Shetty won hearts with her fashion soirees

Babil Khan to make Malayalam debut in Babu Janardhanan’s Gandhi Bazar Sunday Market

Babil Khan is set to embark on an exciting new chapter in his acting journey as he will be making his Malayalam cinema debut with filmmaker Babu Janardhanan’s upcoming directorial titled Gandhi Bazar Sunday Market. The project will Babil step into the rich and nuanced world of Malayalam storytelling, an industry celebrated for its depth and authenticity.

Having steadily carved a space for himself through emotionally resonant performances and unconventional choices, Babil’s foray into Malayalam cinema underscores his commitment to pushing creative boundaries and embracing stories across languages. The film will feature Babil alongside an accomplished ensemble cast including Aparna Balamurali, Deepak Parambol, Nikhil Nair, Johny Antony, Jagadish, Sudheer Karamana, Unni Raja, Athmiya, and Jayashankar.

As per sources, “Babil has always been drawn to stories that challenge him and allow him to grow as an artist. Stepping into Malayalam cinema with a project of this scale and creative depth is an incredibly exciting moment. It reflects his desire to explore powerful narratives beyond boundaries and collaborate with storytellers who inspire him.”

Also Read: Babil Khan finds solace in music amidst busy shoot schedule: “Just my way of spending time with myself”

Will Chief Minister Vijay bring back Tamil Nadu's 4 AM FDFS culture? Exhibitors make an EMOTIONAL appeal: "Early morning shows are the lifeline of cinemas"

There was a time when cinemas would screen just four shows a day, usually beginning around 11:30 am or 12 noon. But with the advent of multiplexes, the system changed. Exhibitors began experimenting with 9:00 am and 10:00 am shows, and the strategy worked. For high-profile releases, cinemas even started organizing shows earlier than that, at 8:00 am, 7:00 am and, in some cases, even at 5:00 am or 6:00 am. However, Tamil Nadu stands out as the only state where early-morning shows are tightly regulated. Here, the first regular show generally begins around 10:30 am or 11:00 am. For big-ticket releases, producers and distributors seek special permission from the state government, after which theatres are usually allowed to start shows from 9:00 am.

However, shows at 4:00 am or even earlier have not been permitted in Tamil Nadu in recent times. The last major instance took place during the Pongal 2023 clash between Ajith Kumar’s Thunivu and Vijay’s Varisu. While Thunivu had shows beginning as early as 1:00 am in Tamil Nadu, Varisu was allowed to be screened from 4:00 am. The celebrations, however, took a tragic turn when an Ajith fan died while celebrating the release of Thunivu. This episode further prompted the state government to clamp down on early morning shows.

Since then, the first show for a biggie starts at 9:00 am. Meanwhile, in other states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and even in centres like Mumbai, viewers get to catch highly-awaited superstar-driven films at 6:00 am or even earlier, creating an awkward and bizarre scenario. As one movie buff from Tamil Nadu told us, “Rajinikanth, Vijay and Ajith are the heroes of our state. They became heroes here, but we don’t get to see their films first. Viewers in other places are done watching the film and have shared their reviews by the time our show begins here.” It's also common for fans living in border regions of Tamil Nadu to travel to neighbouring states to catch the first day, first show. For instance, Coimbatore movie buffs head to Palakkad in Kerala, located just 60 kms away, so that they can see the film of their favourite star before sunrise.

Yesterday, May 10, a historic development took place in Tamil Nadu as Thalapathy Vijay was sworn in as the Chief Minister. He has been a member of the entertainment fraternity and as a result, exhibitors are hopeful that he’ll resume the early morning shows for upcoming biggies.

Ruban Mathivanan of GK Cinemas, Chennai, said, “This is a welcoming change. We are hoping the new government does all the important stuff to save the cinema industry and theatres.”

When asked about the 4:00 am shows, he replied, “These early morning shows were the lifeline of cinemas. They kept us going amid the competition from OTT. In fact, they were a major factor that separated us from OTT. They displayed the charm of cinemas in all its glory.”

Film exhibitor and distributor Akshaye Rathi explained, “The early morning shows that used to take place in Tamil Nadu and continue to take place in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana for superstar films are not just about maximizing revenue. They are a part of the cultural ethos of the cinema-going tradition. By taking that away, we have chipped away at a cultural aspect of cinema that was present in these states for so many years. I am sure Thalapathy Vijay will carry out his responsibilities as Chief Minister and focus on governance. But being from the entertainment fraternity, I really hope he also lays special focus on the culture and cinema of the state, and helps take Tamil cinema not just to the grassroots of Tamil Nadu but to the entire country and the world in a manner that only political will and tailwinds can enable.”

He continued, “I really wish that his coming to power ushers the golden age of Tamil cinema where great cinema is made and backed well, filmmakers and producers are given the freedom and encouragement to do their best. But he also gives that added impetus that sometimes only political tailwinds can enable. As our Honourable Prime Minister says, the entertainment industry is the soft power of the nation. So, I hope that he can work in sync on one side with the Tamil fraternity and on the other hand, the I&B ministry of India to take Tamil cinema beyond its existing borders and markets.”

Jana Nayagan: Loading soon?

Vijay has quit cinema and his unreleased last film, Jana Nayagan, is expected to see the light of day soon. Ruban Mathivanan said, “We are expecting it to release on May 21 or May 28. It’ll be a celebration!”

Sadly, the film got leaked last month and on this Ruban said, “That won’t be an issue at all. The film will open with a bang.”

Akshaye Rathi confirmed, “Given the euphoria there is among his fans thanks to his political debut, I feel that at least in terms of opening, Jana Nayagan will be pretty historic. Social media is abuzz that the opening slate, which usually says ‘Thalapathy Vijay’ for his films, should be changed to ‘Chief Minister Vijay’ for Jana Nayagan. If that happens, it would be very interesting!”

Also Read: Jana Nayagan Leak Row: Madras High Court shields Thalapathy Vijay starrer; blocks illegal streaming before release

Haunted – Echoes Of The Past lands in legal storm ahead of June 12 release; public notice cautions industry against release, streaming and monetisation amid NCLT status quo order

A public notice issued by CA Bharati Manoj Daga, Resolution Professional of Hare Krishna Media Tech Pvt. Ltd., in the May 9, 2026 issue of Atul Mohan’s Complete Cinema magazine, cautioned the Indian film trade and industry against proceeding with the release, distribution, exhibition, streaming, promotion or commercial exploitation of the upcoming film Haunted – Echoes Of The Past, which is scheduled for a release on June 12, 2026. Directed by Vikram Bhatt, the horror film stars Mimoh Chakraborty in the lead.

The notice, issued regarding proceedings before the Hon’ble National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), Mumbai Bench, refers to the matter involving CA Bharati Daga, Resolution Professional of Hare Krishna Media Tech Pvt. Ltd., versus Vikram Bhatt and others. According to the notice, the Resolution Professional has filed the application before the NCLT in connection with certain alleged preferential transactions and connected reliefs under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016.

The public notice states that by an order dated April 15, 2026, the NCLT directed all parties, related parties and connected parties, including assignors and assignees, to maintain a status quo in respect of and in relation to the subject matter of the proceedings. The order, as per the notice, continues to remain valid, subsisting and binding on all parties.

The notice further claims that certain persons, entities, related parties, assigns, or assignees have purportedly announced the release of the subject film (Haunted – Echoes Of The Past) on or around June 12, 2026, despite the subsisting status quo order. As a result, the Resolution Professional has cautioned distributors, exhibitors, OTT platforms, broadcasters, streaming platforms, cinema chains, advertisers, licensors, aggregators and all other persons or entities associated with the film to refrain from commercially exploiting the horror flick, directly or indirectly, until further orders of the NCLT.

The notice adds that any violation, facilitation, participation or non-compliance with the order would be at the concerned party’s own risk and may invite appropriate legal proceedings, including contempt action.

Also Read: Swayambhu director Bharat Krishnamachari on shooting in the same forests as Pushpa, “We made a conscious effort to explore untouched locations”

Mother’s Day 2026: Isha Koppikar says she wants daughter Rianna to achieve her dreams independently

On the occasion of Mother’s Day 2026, Isha Koppikar shared a message about parenting, independence and responsibility through a video posted on social media. Speaking about her daughter Rianna, the actor reflected on the importance of raising children to become self-reliant individuals rather than depending on others for emotional or personal security.

In the video, Isha revealed that a conversation with her daughter prompted her to think more deeply about modern parenting. According to the actor, Rianna asked her what she wished for her, to which she responded that she wanted her daughter to achieve her dreams independently and become a strong individual.

Speaking further, Isha questioned whether parents sometimes send mixed messages to children by encouraging independence while also raising them with the idea that someone else will eventually “take care” of them. She added that this mindset applies equally to both boys and girls.

The actor also spoke about how she views independence beyond financial stability. According to Isha, true independence comes when individuals are emotionally mature, capable of making their own decisions and taking responsibility for their lives before entering a marriage or long-term partnership.

 

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She further said that marriage should happen out of companionship and mutual respect rather than dependency or security. Extending the conversation beyond daughters, Isha noted that sons too should be raised with a sense of responsibility and emotional awareness.

Over the years, Isha Koppikar has often spoken openly about social and personal subjects on public platforms. Her Mother’s Day message this year focused less on celebration and more on conversations around parenting values and emotional independence.

Also Read: Isha Koppikar recalls ‘real cop’ confusion as Kyaa Kool Hai Hum completes 21 years

Ameesha Patel takes cryptic dig at “fake PR machinery” in series of explosive tweets; claims actresses without solo blockbusters are calling themselves stars

Ameesha Patel has sparked a fresh debate on stardom, PR culture, and box office credibility in the film industry after posting a series of cryptic tweets on X. Though the actress did not mention anyone directly, her remarks came shortly after The Hollywood Reporter India, in partnership with Ormax Media, released a list of the “10 stars under 50 ruling Indian cinema in 2026.” Interestingly, the list featured only two actresses, Deepika Padukone and Shraddha Kapoor.

In one of her tweets, Ameesha wrote, “Never feel bad or upset at certain negative YouTubers who always wake up with negativity and criticism for all the stars. We as stars should feel happy for them rather than getting affected. After all, by speaking ill about us all, their kitchen running.”

The actress further spoke about the difference between actors and “superstars,” claiming that the title should only belong to those who have delivered historic box office successes. “Call ur self a super star only if u have achieved any sort of work that creates history and havoc at the box office. Until then stop playing PR games to call urself a super star,” she posted.

Without naming anyone, Ameesha also questioned actresses who, according to her, have not delivered solo blockbusters but are still projected as top stars through public relations campaigns. She wrote, “Loads of female actresses who haven’t even achieved 1 solo blockbuster in their careers till date are calling themselves stars.”

The actress also argued that box office benchmarks have changed over time. “Today 100 cr is nothing,” she wrote while criticising what she described as “PR machinery” promoting actresses as the industry’s number one or number two stars.

Amid the discussion, Ameesha also highlighted her own filmography, pointing to Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai, Gadar: Ek Prem Katha, and Gadar 2 as examples of major theatrical successes. She claimed that all three remain among the biggest hits of her co-stars’ careers as well.

Ending her tweet thread on a confident note, Ameesha teased the possibility of Gadar 3. “GADAR 3 will come for sure and jab aayegi, theatre mein hungama mach jayega,” she wrote, adding that a Rs 500 crore box office collection would be “just the minimum” for the franchise.

Ameesha Patel’s tweets remain open to interpretation for fans.

Also Read: Ameesha Patel stuck at Dubai airport amid flight cancellations: “Can’t wait to get home to Mumbai”

Rohit Sharma hints at TV debut with Sony Pictures Networks India teaser, watch

Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) is set to bring World Cup-winning captain Rohit Sharma to audiences across the country. Hinting at his much-anticipated entertainment debut, Sony Pictures Networks India has unveiled an exciting teaser that offers a glimpse into a fresh new collaboration, one that is already sparking buzz and curiosity among fans.

The teaser captures fans in a frenzy as they crowd around Rohit, eagerly urging him to deliver his now-iconic “Koi bhi garden mein nahi ghumega” line. In a playful nod to how a spontaneous on-field remark became a viral pop-culture moment, the teaser humorously showcases the frenzy surrounding this dialogue. Reacting to the overwhelming craze, Rohit quips, “Do line kya bol di, itna viral ho gaya… jab mera poora show aayega toh kya hoga?”

 

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  A post shared by Rohit Sharma (@rohitsharma45)

Packed with humour, charisma, and intrigue, this light-hearted teaser from Sony Pictures Networks India sets the stage for what promises to be the biggest entertainment debut of the year. With Rohit Sharma bringing his trademark wit and effortless charm to the screen, viewers can expect an entertainment spectacle unlike any other coming soon to Sony Entertainment Television and Sony LIV.

Also Read: Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan team up for Netflix campaign after viral contract tease on Instagram