Saturday, February 7, 2026

BREAKING: Salman Khan, Ranbir Kapoor and others attend the 100-year celebration event of RSS in Mumbai

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) completed 100 years in 2025. As part of its centenary celebrations, a grand two-day event is being held at a sprawling auditorium in Mumbai. The first day of the event took place on Saturday, February 7, with several prominent personalities from various fields in attendance.

The Bollywood film fraternity was not far behind and several celebs attended the first day of the event like superstars Salman Khan and Ranbir Kapoor and filmmakers like Mohit Suri, Subhash Ghai, Nitesh Tiwari, Om Raut, Vikram Malhotra and others. Lyricist Prasoon Joshi was also present and he was seated next to Salman Khan.

Salman Khan could be seen dedicatedly listening to the speakers on stage. Ranbir Kapoor was seated in the front row and he was sporting a moustache; it is said to be his look from his upcoming film, Love & War, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali.

A video outside the auditorium showed Ranbir Kapoor warmly greeting and hugging Nitesh Tiwari. Interestingly, Nitesh has directed Ranbir in the much-awaited two-part saga, Ramayana. It features the actor in the role of Lord Rama. It also stars Sai Pallavi as Sita, Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman and Yash of KGF and Toxic fame as Ravana. While the first part will release on Diwali 2026, the second part will arrive in cinemas on Diwali 2027.

As for Salman Khan, he’s gearing up for Battle Of Galwan, co-starring Chitrangda Singh. Salman plays the role of Colonel Bikkumalla Santosh Babu in this film, which is based on a chapter in the book ‘India’s Most Fearless 3’ (2022), authored by Shiv Aroor and Rahul Singh. The film is inspired by the events of June 15, 2020, when Indian and Chinese soldiers clashed in the Galwan Valley during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The second day of the event will take place on Sunday, February 8, and several more prominent personalities from across fields are expected to attend.

Also Read: Bigg Boss 19 becomes 2025’s most-watched OTT reality show with 20 million views, Salman Khan stays on top


Shaad Randhawa steps out for a cause, joins Mumbai Road Safety Awareness rally

Actor Shaad Randhawa was recently seen lending his support to a road safety awareness rally organised by the Mumbai/Maharashtra RTO, adding a recognisable face from the film industry to an initiative focused on civic responsibility. Known for his work across films and digital projects, Randhawa’s participation brought added visibility to the rally, which aimed to encourage mindful behaviour on the city’s busy roads.

The rally witnessed participation from officials, volunteers, and citizens, all united by the common goal of promoting safer road practices. Shaad Randhawa joined the participants on ground, interacting with organisers and acknowledging the effort that goes into planning such public initiatives. His presence underscored how public figures can contribute beyond their on-screen roles by engaging with causes that impact everyday life.

Speaking about his association with the rally, Shaad Randhawa said, “It’s a great privilege and honor to be a part of such a noble cause. Road safety awareness is absolutely vital and necessary. Measures like wearing a helmet or staying within speed limits are extremely important to follow. I thank the Mumbai/Maharashtra RTO and everyone responsible who organized this rally. Jai Hind! Jai Maharashtra.” The actor’s words reflected his appreciation for the organisers and his belief in supporting initiatives that benefit society at large.

While the rally’s core message centred on road safety, Randhawa’s involvement stood out as an example of celebrity participation in grassroots awareness efforts. In recent years, several actors have stepped forward to associate themselves with social campaigns, and Shaad’s participation adds to that growing list of industry members engaging with real-world issues.

For Randhawa, who continues to balance his acting commitments with public appearances, the rally marked a moment of engagement outside the entertainment space. His support also highlighted how visibility from the film industry can help draw attention to initiatives that might otherwise remain limited in reach.

As images and videos from the rally circulated online, fans appreciated seeing the actor in a socially conscious role, reinforcing his off-screen persona as someone willing to support meaningful causes. The event ultimately served as a reminder that when public figures step into community-driven initiatives, it helps bridge the gap between awareness campaigns and the wider audience they aim to reach.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Shaad Randhawa on why directors like Mohit Suri, Milap Zaveri repeat him: “It’s my job to make life easier for director”; BREAKS silence on ‘recycled’ Main Tera Hero joke in Mastiii 4: “I didn’t expect people would remember it…”


Mrs makers Harman Baweja and Arati Kadav reunite for a new film after one year

A year after Mrs sparked widespread conversation for its sharp social commentary, producer Harman Baweja and director Arati Kadav are set to reunite for a new project. The announcement comes as the film completes one year since its release, reaffirming the creative partnership that delivered one of the most discussed Hindi films of recent times.

Marking the milestone, both Harman Baweja and Arati Kadav took to Instagram to share the news of their next collaboration. The timing of the announcement, coinciding with the anniversary of Mrs, has added to the anticipation surrounding their reunion. While details of the new project remain under wraps, the development signals a continuation of the creative synergy that defined their previous collaboration.

Mrs, directed by Arati Kadav and headlined by Sanya Malhotra, was a Hindi adaptation of the Malayalam cult classic The Great Indian Kitchen, reimagined through a North Indian cultural lens. By weaving in familiar social rituals and domestic dynamics, the film examined gender roles and the gradual erosion of a woman’s individuality within marriage. Its restrained narrative approach and refusal to rely on sensationalism were widely appreciated by critics and audiences alike.

The film also marked a significant chapter for Baweja Studios. Beyond producing the project, Harman Baweja was closely involved in shaping its creative vision and co-writing the film. Mrs went on to earn critical acclaim, with Sanya Malhotra’s performance receiving multiple awards and recognition across platforms.

Speaking about the reunion, Harman Baweja said, “Mrs. was one of those rare films that stays with you long after it’s made not just because of the response it received, but because of the honesty with which it was created. Working with Arati reminded me how powerful cinema can be when everyone involved is aligned in intent and sensitivity. Over the last year, as the film found its audience and its recognition, it only strengthened my belief that this is the kind of storytelling I want to keep backing. Coming together again feels less like a reunion and more like a natural next step in a creative journey we deeply trust, This next project is born from that very faith, and I’m looking forward to once again push boundaries together.”

Echoing similar thoughts, Arati Kadav shared, “Making Mrs. was an emotionally demanding but deeply fulfilling experience, and a lot of that credit goes to the space Harman and Baweja Studios created for me as a filmmaker. There was complete faith, patience, and a willingness to listen qualities that are rare and invaluable. Over time, that trust has only grown stronger. Returning to collaborate again doesn’t feel like starting something new; it feels like continuing a conversation that began with honesty, care, and a shared belief in telling stories that matter.”

The reunion also comes at a strong phase for Baweja Studios. Harman Baweja’s recent project Haq has been gaining attention, while the studio has a packed slate ahead that includes Dil Ka Darwaza Kholo Na Darling, Captain India, Boy From Andaman, and several other upcoming titles.

As anticipation builds around their next collaboration, industry watchers will be keen to see how Harman Baweja and Arati Kadav build on the creative foundation established with Mrs.

Also Read: Photos: Anupam Kher, Raju Singh, Karan Razdan, Harman Baweja and others grace the Rajni 2.0 press conference


Friday, February 6, 2026

Priyanka Chopra, Varanasi and the question of a Telugu debut; was the Ram Charan starrer Thoofan forgotten?

The Varanasi team’s widely circulated interview with Screen Rant features a rather awkward moment. When the interviewer asks Priyanka Chopra about her Telugu debut in Varanasi, the actor says she cannot remember when she last did a Telugu film.

Mahesh Babu quickly steps in to add, “This is her first Telugu film.”

But that is not entirely accurate. Priyanka Chopra had, in fact, featured in the Telugu version of the Amitabh Bachchan classic Zanjeer in 2013. Titled Thoofan, the Ram Charan starrer had Priyanka playing his love interest in what was admittedly a small role.

At the time, Chopra had expressed considerable gratitude to the makers of Thoofan, as opportunities in Bollywood were scarce for her then.

A senior member of the Thoofan team views her current statement as a case of selective amnesia. “When we signed her for Thoofan, nobody in the Hindi film industry was willing to sign her. We ourselves felt the role was not substantial enough for a future global star like her. But she was eager and did the role happily. Now she seems to have forgotten her Telugu debut altogether,” the team member says.

Sources suggest that the Varanasi team is keen to position the film as Priyanka Chopra’s Telugu debut. But should that come at the cost of factual accuracy?

Also Read: Priyanka Chopra Jonas reveals her ONLY request for Varanasi was to dance: “Poor Mahesh Babu had to do it too”


Thursday, February 5, 2026

Ghooskhor Pandat director Neeraj Pandey BREAKS SILENCE after petition filed against Manoj Bajpayee starrer: “We have decided to take down all promotional materials…”

Filmmaker Neeraj Pandey has issued an official clarification following the filing of a writ petition in the Delhi High Court seeking a stay on the release and streaming of the upcoming Netflix film Ghooskhor Pandat. The petition alleges that the film’s title and promotional material are offensive and defamatory to the Brahmin community.

In a statement shared publicly, Pandey asserted that Ghooskhor Pandat is a fictional cop drama and that the term “Pandat” refers only to a colloquial nickname of a fictional character, not to any caste, religion or community.

“Our film is a fictional cop drama, and the term ‘Pandat’ is used simply as a colloquial name for a fictional character. The story focuses on an individual’s actions and choices and does not comment on or represent any caste, religion, or community,” Pandey said.

The director further emphasised his responsibility as a storyteller and stated that the film was created with sincere intent and purely for entertainment. “As a filmmaker, I approach my work with a deep sense of responsibility – to tell stories that are thoughtful and respectful. This film, like my earlier work, has been created with sincere intent and solely to entertain audiences,” he added.

Acknowledging the concerns raised by a section of viewers, Pandey said the team understands that the title has caused hurt and confirmed that all promotional material has been taken down temporarily.

“We understand that the title of the film has caused hurt to some viewers, and we genuinely acknowledge those feelings. In light of these concerns, we have decided to take down all promotional materials for the time being, as we believe the film should be experienced in its entirety and understood in the context of the story we intended to tell, rather than judged on partial glimpses,” the statement read.

The legal challenge, filed on February 5, 2026, by Mahender Chaturvedi, seeks a stay on the film’s release and streaming, arguing that the title Ghooskhor Pandat associates a term traditionally linked with scholarship and spirituality with corruption, thereby harming the dignity of the Brahmin community. The plea also raises concerns about collective defamation and communal harmony.

 

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Neeraj Pandey (@neerajpofficial)

Ghooskhor Pandat, which features Manoj Bajpayee in the lead role as a police officer nicknamed “Pandat,” was announced as part of Netflix’s 2026 content slate. Netflix India and the streaming platform have not issued a separate response to the petition so far. “I look forward to sharing the film with audiences soon,” Pandey concluded.

 Also Read: Petition filed in Delhi HC to stay Manoj Bajpayee starrer Ghooskhor Pandat over offensive title claim


Farah Khan develops double-role concept for Shah Rukh Khan in Main Hoon Na 2: Report

After the anticipation around Shah Rukh Khan’s upcoming film King reaches its peak, fresh reports suggest that the actor’s next project could be a sequel to one of his most beloved films, Main Hoon Na. According to an exclusive from Pinkvilla, discussions between Khan and filmmaker Farah Khan are progressing, pointing to Main Hoon Na 2 as a strong contender for his post-King slate.

Shah Rukh Khan and Farah Khan to reunite If realised, this sequel would mark a reunion between Shah Rukh Khan and Farah Khan after nearly 12 years. Their collaborations in the past — including Om Shanti Om (2007) and Happy New Year (2014) — delivered significant box office results and helped define the commercial cinema of their respective eras.

Sources quoted in the report say Farah Khan has devised an “exciting double-role concept” specifically for Khan. “Farah Khan has cracked an exciting double-role concept for Shah Rukh Khan, which has excited the superstar,” one insider told Pinkvilla. “The idea is said to elevate the emotion and entertainment quotient of the sequel, while SRK will explore two contrasting characters.” Main Hoon Na original cast to return for sequel According to the report, the sequel will retain the emotional core of the original while expanding its scope. The central narrative is expected to revolve around a new threat to India, blending elements of patriotism with action and comedy — a combination that helped make the 2004 original memorable. “The film will be a patriotism galore, with the original cast returning,” the source added.

The screenplay is being shaped under writer Aakash Kaushik, with the core story reportedly coming from Shah Rukh Khan himself. In addition to the return of some original cast members, the production team is also considering introducing new faces, preserving nostalgia while broadening the film’s appeal.

Production timelines are yet to be confirmed. Insiders indicate that Shah Rukh Khan is expected to hear the complete narration after he finishes shooting King, which is scheduled to wrap around May 2026. After the narration, Khan will make a final decision on whether to green-light Main Hoon Na 2.

This cautious approach reflects the gravity of attempting a sequel to a film that holds a special place for fans of Hindi cinema. The original Main Hoon Na blended action, drama, and light-hearted moments to become a cultural touchstone, and expectations around its follow-up are similarly high.

While Main Hoon Na 2 remains in an advanced development phase rather than actively in production, industry watchers see the reports as a strong indicator of where Shah Rukh Khan’s career may head after King.

Also Read: Next On Netflix 2026: 23 years after Kal Ho Naa Ho, Shah Rukh Khan, Saif Ali Khan reunite for Kartavya; Mismatched: Season 4 helmed by Jayeshbhai Jordaar director Divyang Thakkar


MAMI unveils new logo and brand identity; launches year-round MAMI Independent initiative

Mumbai Academy of the Moving Image (MAMI), a leading institution dedicated to celebrating Indian and world cinema since 1997, today unveiled a new logo and brand identity, marking the beginning of a renewed chapter for one of India’s most influential and celebrated film organisations.

Rooted in the belief that cinema is an art form that is of the people and for the people, that brings people together and sparks meaningful dialogue, the rebrand reflects MAMI’s evolution into a festival shaped by its community, powered by diverse voices and driven by the belief that stories connect the human race. While remaining deeply anchored in Mumbai, MAMI continues to engage with cinema from across India and the world.

Coinciding with this moment of renewal, MAMI also announced MAMI Independent, a new year-round initiative designed to provide a vital platform for bold, contemporary independent cinema from India and internationally. The programme will present weekly screenings on the big screen, offering sustained visibility to films that often struggle to find space within mainstream exhibition circuits.

 

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by MAMI Mumbai Film Festival (@mumbaifilmfestival)

MAMI Independent represents a significant step towards building a stronger ecosystem for independent cinema. The initiative will provide filmmakers with a platform to present their work to engaged audiences, while fostering meaningful dialogue between filmmakers, cinephiles, industry professionals and emerging talent. The screenings aim to expand audiences for independent films and create opportunities for discovery, conversation, and potential distribution. The programme will showcase films that break away from the mould, stories that rise from the margins, challenge conventions and invite audiences not just to watch, but to feel, question and reflect. Often created with limited resources but driven by immense passion, these films are frequently overshadowed by the volume of mainstream releases. MAMI Independent seeks to bring them out of the shadows and into the spotlight they deserve.

Beginning 25th February 2026, audiences in Mumbai can attend weekly screenings every Wednesday at 7 p.m. at PVR Lido, Santacruz, featuring a curated selection of independent feature films, documentaries, shorts, and experimental works from India.

Shivendra Singh Dungarpur, Festival Director, MAMI Mumbai Film Festival states “I am excited to launch the new face of MAMI with a new logo and brand identity for the Mumbai Film Festival that reflects our belief that cinema is about people, about ideas and sparking conversations, and that the festival is about the storytellers and the public, that come together as a community to make the Mumbai Film Festival a celebration of film.”

MAMI Independent will commence on 25 February 2026, with details of the screening slate and monthly calendar to be shared through MAMI’s official channels. The initiative reinforces MAMI’s commitment to nurturing cinematic excellence, supporting independent filmmakers, strengthening the connection between storytellers and audiences, and enabling new pathways for films to reach wider audiences.

Together, the new brand identity and the launch of MAMI Independent reaffirm MAMI’s dedication to creative freedom, the discovery of new voices, and the continued positioning of Mumbai as a vital meeting ground for Indian and global cinema.

Also Read: Manoj Bajpayee delighted as The Fable wins Special Jury Prize at MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2024: “It reflects the film’s power and the dedication of everyone who made it possible”


BREAKING: Salman Khan, Ranbir Kapoor and others attend the 100-year celebration event of RSS in Mumbai

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) completed 100 years in 2025. As part of its centenary celebrations, a grand two-day event is being hel...