Welcome To The Jungle fever grips exhibitors; Supergirl bookings delayed as theatres prioritize Akshay Kumar’s comic caper

This week will see the release of not just one of the most-awaited Hindi films of the year, Welcome To The Jungle, but also the Hollywood superhero entertainer, Supergirl. Both films will be released on Friday, June 26. However, as of 7:00 pm on June 24, the bookings for Supergirl have yet to begin.

A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “There’s tremendous excitement in the exhibition sector for Welcome To The Jungle. Moreover, the distributor of the comic caper has also requested extensive promotion. As a result, theatres have decided to adhere to it.”

The source continued, “Consequently, Supergirl is unable to get the desired number of shows. Warner Bros is clear that they are not asking for excessive showcasing. They have asked for 2 prime shows in 4-screen multiplexes and 3 prime shows in multiplexes with more than 4 screens. Yet, they are facing difficulty in securing showcasing. The negotiations are on and a solution is expected to be reached by Wednesday night or Thursday morning.”

As of 7:00 pm on June 24, Supergirl’s bookings had commenced only in Devgn CineX in The Walk in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The same multiplex chain has started bookings in Delhi and Ahmedabad as well. Smaller chains have taken the initiative in other cities. In Pune, not a single cinema hall has begun selling tickets. Similarly, the national chains, that is PVR Inox and Cinepolis, have not opened bookings in a single property in the entire North, Eastern and Western belt.

The source said, “Warner feels its demand is reasonable and that it is not asking for too many shows. They were among the few studios that released their films during the Covid period when Hindi filmmakers were shying away from theatrical releases. Hence, they feel they shouldn’t be given step-motherly treatment now that things have improved. The studio is hopeful that the issue will be resolved amicably and that Supergirl gets a fair showcasing.”

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EXCLUSIVE: Ali Fazal's fierce new poster from Mirzapur: The Movie raises anticipation ahead of teaser launch

Ahead of the teaser launch tomorrow, the makers have just dropped a striking new poster featuring Ali Fazal, from the much-awaited Mirzapur: The Movie, and it is everything fans have been waiting for. With the teaser set to drop tomorrow, the buzz around the film has officially hit fever pitch.

The poster showcases Ali Fazal in his iconic avatar, radiating intensity and power. With a fierce expression and commanding presence, the character's look hints at the high-stakes drama, revenge, and power battles that have become synonymous with the Mirzapur franchise. While the poster offers no clues about the storyline, it successfully reignites excitement among fans eager to witness the return of one of the most loved characters from the Mirzapur universe. The visual serves as a reminder that the battle for power is far from over and that the world of Mirzapur is gearing up for an even grander cinematic experience. As excitement builds, all eyes are now on the teaser, which promises to offer the first glimpse into the film's action-packed narrative and larger-than-life scale. Presented by Amazon MGM Studios and Excel Entertainment, Mirzapur: The Movie is directed by Gurmeet Singh, written by Puneet Krishna, and produced by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar under the banner of Excel Entertainment. The film is co-produced by Kassim Jagmagia and Vishal Ramchandani and will release in Hindi and Telugu and is set for a worldwide theatrical release on September 4, 2026.

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Eetha teaser out: Shraddha Kapoor brings Maharashtra’s folk legacy alive in her boldest screen transformation yet

The much-awaited teaser of Eetha has finally been released on digital platforms, giving audiences a glimpse of Shraddha Kapoor in what appears to be one of the most transformative roles of her career. Backed by Maddock Films and directed by Laxman Utekar, the film stars Kapoor as legendary Marathi Tamasha artist Vithabai Narayangaonkar and is slated to arrive in cinemas on August 28 during the Raksha Bandhan weekend.

The teaser had first been screened theatrically alongside Maddock Films' Cocktail 2, which released on June 19. Following strong audience curiosity and growing social media chatter, the makers have now officially unveiled it online. Shraddha Kapoor unveils a striking new avatar Running for 2 minutes and 18 seconds, the teaser opens with a charged atmosphere as an enthusiastic crowd calls for a performance from a dancer named Eetha. While the setup initially hints at a conventional star entry, the film quickly takes a different route.

Shraddha Kapoor makes an unexpected appearance, instantly establishing the tone of the character and the world she inhabits. Known for films across genres, the actress appears to have undergone a significant transformation to portray Vithabai Narayangaonkar, one of Maharashtra's most celebrated folk performers.

The teaser highlights her expressive performance, energetic dance sequences and commanding stage presence. Her portrayal appears deeply rooted in the traditions of Tamasha and Lavani, suggesting extensive preparation and research for the role.

Eetha posters build anticipation ahead of teaser launch Just two hours before the teaser dropped, the makers released a set of posters featuring Shraddha Kapoor in vibrant traditional attire. One of the visuals shows the actress dressed in a striking yellow saree adorned with ghungroos, walking through a sea of lanterns and cheering spectators.

The imagery captures the larger-than-life aura associated with Vithabai Narayangaonkar and offers a glimpse into the colourful world of Tamasha theatre that the film seeks to recreate on screen.

 

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A powerful team reunites after Chhaava Eetha reunites director Laxman Utekar and producer Dinesh Vijan following the success of Chhaava. The film also features Randeep Hooda and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub in pivotal roles, while the music has been composed by Ajay-Atul.

The teaser suggests that the film aims to blend spectacle with an emotionally driven narrative. While the story remains largely under wraps, glimpses of intense dramatic moments indicate that the film will explore both the personal and professional journey of the iconic performer.

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Emraan Hashmi returns to horror after 5 years with Rooh, set for 2027 release

After redefining horror for a generation and becoming one of the most recognisable faces of the genre in Indian cinema, Emraan Hashmi is set to headline Rooh, a high-concept musical-horror spectacle designed for a theatrical experience. The film is slated for a 2027 theatrical release in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.

Directed by Mayank Sharma, the creator-director of the highly acclaimed Prime Video’s Breathe Franchise, Rooh brings together a unique blend of new-age horror, music and emotion, envisioned as a spine-chilling cinematic experience. Known for his command over psychological depth, atmosphere and character-led storytelling, Mayank brings his immersive vision to a film built for the big screen.

Rooh brings Emraan Hashmi into a world that is close to his heart and deeply connected to the kind of cinema audiences have always loved him for. The film is written by Mayank Sharma and Vishal Kapoor, known for Lapachhapi and Chhorii, and produced by Vikram Khakhar and Sunny Khanna, a Vicked Films Productions.

 

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Speaking about the film, Emraan Hashmi shares, “Rooh is a film that immediately connected with me because it brings together new-age horror, emotion and music in a very powerful way. This is a space that audiences have always associated with me, and the world Mayank is creating feels intense, emotional and cinematic. That is what excited me the most about Rooh, and I am really looking forward to audiences experiencing it on the big screen.”

Speaking about the film, director Mayank Sharma adds, “As someone who has always loved the horror genre... Rooh is my attempt to create a film that goes beyond fear. It’s emotionally layered and immersed with unsettling atmosphere and presented with contemporary cinematic treatment… I’m thrilled to collaborate with Emraan for this deeply layered character. My entire team and I hope to bring audiences a truly unique and unforgettable horror experience.”

With Rooh, the intent is to create a haunting, immersive and emotionally charged cinematic journey that goes far beyond the conventions of a regular horror film.

Adding to the film’s commercial strength is its music. In true Emraan Hashmi style, Rooh will carry a powerful soundtrack, with the first glimpse of its tune already hinting at the kind of melody, longing and emotional recall that audiences have always associated with his films. The combination of horror and memorable music gives the film a strong edge across cinema, digital, music, youth and wider audiences.

Industry insiders suggest that the project is also being developed with global ambitions, backed by international creative and technical collaborations that elevate the film’s visual scale and overall cinematic experience.

More than a conventional horror film, Rooh blends fear, emotion, music and supernatural power into a theatrical world designed for audiences in India and beyond. With Emraan Hashmi, Mayank Sharma’s immersive vision and music as a major commercial driver, Rooh is shaping up to be one of the most exciting horror properties to watch out for.

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Welcome To The Jungle to have one of the WIDEST releases; distributor demands ALL shows in single screens, 3 shows per screen in 6+ screen multiplexes

The month of June is expected to end on a comic note thanks to the release of Welcome To The Jungle. It is arguably the biggest multi-starrer of Hindi cinema and hence, the excitement is expected to be tremendous. Accordingly, the distributing partner, Star Studio18, has gone all out with the release strategy.

As per the mail sent to the exhibitors, the distributor has asked for all shows in single-screen cinemas. In two-screen cinemas, they have asked for 7 or 8 shows, while they require 9 or 10 shows in three-screen cinemas. In 4-screen multiplexes, the requirement is 11 or 12 shows, while 13 or 14 shows are required in 5-screen plexes. For cinema halls with 6 screens, Welcome To The Jungle needs to be played in 15 or 16 shows. Finally, in multiplexes with more than 6 screens, the studio has asked them to play 3 shows of the comic caper per screen.

A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “Welcome To The Jungle is a grand film meant for the big screen. Due to the humour quotient and sprawling star cast, the film should open with a bang and hence, the studio is intending for a wide release.”

It now remains to be seen whether the demand for all shows in single-screens and 7-8 shows in two-screen cinemas causes any issue, especially regarding the holdover releases. The trade source explained, “Cocktail 2 has a decent hold while Main Vaapas Aaunga refuses to slow down. Some Gujarati and Marathi releases have also put up fair numbers. Also, Hollywood superhero flick Supergirl and the much-awaited Punjabi film, Carry On Jatta 4, are up for release this Friday as well. These films will also require sufficient shows and hence, let’s see how things unfold in the next 48 hours.”

Welcome To The Jungle stars Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Disha Patani, Jacqueline Fernandez, Arshad Warsi, Jackie Shroff, Paresh Rawal, Raveena Tandon, Lara Dutta, Farida Jalal, Johny Lever, Shreyas Talpade, Tusshar Kapoor, Rajpal Yadav, Krushna Abhishek, Kiku Sharda, Daler Mehndi, Aftab Shivdasani, Mukesh Tiwari, Yashpal Sharma, Kiran Kumar, Zakir Hussain, Vindu Dara Singh, Urvashi Rautela, Hemant Pandey, Brijendra Kala, Feroze Khan (Arjun), Late Pankaj Dheer Ji, Puneet Issar, Sudesh Berry, Jeetu Verma, Vrihi Kodvara, Adityaa Singgh and Bhagya Bhanushali.

Also Read: BREAKING: Welcome To The Jungle goes Dhurandhar and Bhooth Bangla way; to have paid previews from Thursday, June 25

BREAKING: Welcome To The Jungle goes Dhurandhar and Bhooth Bangla way; to have paid previews from Thursday, June 25

The paid preview culture has picked up big time this year. Dhurandhar The Revenge released a day before, at 5:00 pm, and it gave a boost to the collections. Then, Bhooth Bangla, too, had an advantage as it released at night before release. The horror comedy starred Akshay Kumar, whose next film, Welcome To The Jungle, will release this Friday, June 26. Fans of the film will be excited to know that the multi-starrer comic caper will have paid previews as well.

On Thursday, June 25, paid previews of Welcome To The Jungle will be organized across the country. The shows will begin from 7:30 pm onwards. The bookings of the paid previews have begun. From June 23, viewers will get a chance to book for tickets for Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Welcome To The Jungle stars Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Disha Patani, Jacqueline Fernandez, Arshad Warsi, Jackie Shroff, Paresh Rawal, Raveena Tandon, Lara Dutta, Farida Jalal, Johny Lever, Shreyas Talpade, Tusshar Kapoor, Rajpal Yadav, Krushna Abhishek, Kiku Sharda, Daler Mehndi, Aftab Shivdasani, Mukesh Tiwari, Yashpal Sharma, Kiran Kumar, Zakir Hussain, Vindu Dara Singh, Urvashi Rautela, Hemant Pandey, Brijendra Kala, Feroze Khan (Arjun), Late Pankaj Dheer Ji, Puneet Issar, Sudesh Berry, Jeetu Verma, Vrihi Kodvara, Adityaa Singgh and Bhagya Bhanushali.

An Ahmed Khan entertainer, Welcome To The Jungle is presented by A.A. Nadiadwala, Cape of Good Films and Star Studio18 in association with Seeta Films and Rakesh Dang. The film is a Base Industries Group Production, produced by Rakesh Dang and Vedant Vikaas Baali, and produced by Firoz A. Nadiadwallah.

Also Read: CBFC censors sensual visuals of Disha Patani, Jacqueline Fernandez in Welcome To The Jungle; replaces ‘andha’ with ‘dheela’; deletes ‘Paani of Kashmir’ dialogue

Nidhi Dutta unveils JP Films’ five-project slate: Border 3, General Harbaksh Singh biopic and more

Riding on the box office returns of Border 2, producer Nidhi Dutta has unveiled an ambitious five-title slate at JP Films, the banner founded by her father, filmmaker JP Dutta. The projects span military dramas, a war hero biopic, a digital series on her grandfather, and a treasure-hunt franchise rooted in Indian history and mythology. She revealed her plans during an interview with Variety India.

Border 3 and the military slate The most prominent title on the slate is Border 3, currently in early development in partnership with Bhushan Kumar. Dutta said the third instalment “represents our continued commitment to telling stories of bravery and national pride on the biggest possible canvas.”

Alongside the franchise, JP Films is also developing a biopic on war hero General Harbaksh Singh, who commanded the Indian Army during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965 and was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 1966. “The film aims to bring an important chapter of Indian military history to a new generation while telling the story of a man whose courage shaped history,” Dutta said.

The third military project is a contemporary Air Force drama set during and after Operation Sindoor, focused on the personal and emotional costs of service. “While it delivers scale and action, it is ultimately a deeply human story about duty, family, and sacrifice,” she said. A franchise and a family legacy Marking a different direction for the banner, Dutta is also developing a large-scale treasure-hunt action-adventure film conceived as the first entry in a three-part franchise. “We expect it to be among the first projects to move into production. It’s the first time I’ve written something like this and it’s a franchise film, so it will have two more parts,” she said.

Rounding out the slate is a long-form digital series on her grandfather, filmmaker OP Dutta, described by Nidhi as the studio’s most personal project. She said the series would tell a story about “perseverance, passion, family, and an unwavering belief in cinema despite immense challenges, and the journey of my family legacy.”

Dutta confirmed that production timelines are being finalised and that some titles from the slate are expected to begin shooting over the next couple of months, with individual announcements to follow.

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