EXCLUSIVE: Check out Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia’s intense chemistry in 'Samjho Na'; Tamannaah, Jubin Nautiyal to launch The Vvaan’s romantic track on September 2 in a mall

After keeping audiences hooked with its mystery, folklore and larger-than-life fantasy world, The Vvaan gears up to reveal the side of its story that fans have been waiting to see — romance. The excitement is rife for the film’s first upcoming song, ‘Samjho Na’, which is set to bring Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia’s fresh pairing into the spotlight, with a special launch that brings together Tamannaah Bhatia and Jubin Nautiyal ahead of the song’s release.

If the teaser had audiences wondering what lies inside The Vvaan, ‘Samjho Na’ promises to give them something emotional and romantic to latch on to. The first song will open the door to the film’s romantic world, giving audiences their first full glimpse of Sidharth and Tamannaah sharing screen space and bringing their never-seen-before chemistry to the centre of the story.

The lead pair are sharing screen space for the first time, making ‘Samjho Na’ the first showcase of a pairing audiences have never seen together before. Given the teaser's reveal of what happens to the couple in the film, the first upcoming song is the much-needed emotional grounding of the story.

The upcoming launch itself is being positioned as a lively event for fans, with Tamannaah and Jubin Nautiyal set to make an appearance at a mall on Wednesday, September 2, at 7:30 pm. With the singer performing and Tamannaah joining him, the evening is expected to bring the song's romantic energy straight to the audience.

Musically, ‘Samjho Na’ brings together a strong team, with Tanishk Bagchi as composer and music producer, Jubin Nautiyal and Suvarna Tiwari on vocals and Manoj Muntashir on lyrics. Krishna Kishor has handled additional live production, while Eric Pillai has mixed and mastered the track, with Michael Edwin Pillai as assistant mix engineer.

For The Vvaan, this is an important shift from “What is happening inside that forest?” to “What is happening between these two?” And with Sidharth and Tamannaah coming together on screen for the first time, ‘Samjho Na’ is set to bring all the ingredients of a launch that the audience will be watching with bated breath.

Backed by some of the country's most distinctive storytellers, The Vvaan brings together TVF’s Arunabh Kumar, director Deepak Mishra and Ektaa Kapoor for a commercial film that attempts to take Indian folklore into a new cinematic space. While its world is rooted in folklore and fantasy, the film brings together adventure, mystery and humour to shape itself as a complete family entertainer. The ambition extends beyond the film, with The Legend Of Vvaan comic book already introducing audiences to the larger folklore surrounding its universe.

Presented by Balaji Motion Pictures, a division of Balaji Telefilms Ltd, in association with TVF and 11.11 Production, The Vvaan stars Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia. Written by Arunabh Kumar and directed by Deepak Mishra, with Manu Anand as DOP and Visual Director, the film is produced by Shobha Kapoor, Ektaa R Kapoor, Arunabh Kumar and Niraj Kothari.

The Vvaan arrives in cinemas on September 25, 2026, promising a big-screen fantasy folklore experience where the visuals, music, mystery and scale come together to create a world audiences will want to step into.

Also Read: Sidharth Malhotra says physical preparation for The Vvaan went beyond fitness: “Training has to support all of that”

Badshah, Isha Rikhi confirm separation after months of speculation: “Mutually decided to part ways”

Rapper-singer Badshah and Punjabi actress Isha Rikhi have confirmed that they are parting ways. The couple made the announcement on Monday evening, August 31, months after their marriage became public and weeks after speculation about trouble in their relationship gained momentum. Badshah shared a joint statement on his Instagram Story, saying that the decision was mutual and made with respect. He also requested fans and the media to give them privacy as they move forward separately.

“I and Isha Rikhi have mutually decided to part ways and move forward on our separate paths. This decision has been made with mutual respect, and we request everyone to kindly respect our privacy during this time,” Badshah wrote.

The couple further made it clear that they do not wish to discuss the matter publicly. “This will be our only statement on the matter. We sincerely request that there be no further speculation or assumptions regarding our relationship,” the statement read.

 

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Isha Rikhi’s emotional post had sparked speculation The announcement comes weeks after Isha shared an emotional note on social media that led to questions about the status of her marriage. In the post shared in July, the actress spoke about staying silent because of fear and said she felt overwhelmed by what she described as her husband’s “influence, power, and resources.”

“There are battles that leave no visible scars. For a long time, I remained silent because I was afraid. I felt overwhelmed by the influence, power, and resources I believed my husband had, and I convinced myself that staying quiet was the safest thing to do,” she wrote.

Isha further said that her silence should not be seen as acceptance. “Silence was never acceptance. It was survival. Today, I'm choosing courage over fear. I may not be ready to tell the whole story, but I'm finally ready to stop pretending that everything was okay,” she added.

 

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Badshah’s second marriage The separation marks the end of Badshah’s second marriage. He was previously married to Jasmine Masih. The two reportedly met on Facebook and got married in 2012. Badshah and Jasmine welcomed their daughter, Jessemy Grace Masih Singh, in 2017. The couple later separated and finalised their divorce in 2020. Badshah has continued to co-parent their daughter following their separation.

Also Read: Isha Rikhi breaks silence on separation rumours with Badshah with cryptic post: “Silence was never acceptance”

Rohit Sharma set to make TV debut with Family Full House, premieres September 19

Indian cricketer Rohit Sharma is set to make his debut in the entertainment space with Family Full House with Rohit Sharma. Sony Pictures Networks India announced the title of the upcoming show on Monday, August 31, along with its premiere date. The show will debut on September 19, 2026, on Sony Entertainment Television and Sony LIV.

The upcoming programme marks a new on-screen venture for Rohit, who has largely been associated with cricket throughout his career. The show is positioned as a family-oriented entertainment format and will see the World Cup-winning captain take on a role beyond the cricket field.

Family Full House with Rohit Sharma is expected to bring Rohit into a different setting for audiences who have followed his journey as a cricketer. The announcement comes with a promotional video shared by the network, offering the first glimpse of the upcoming show.

The show will be available to viewers across both television and streaming, with its premiere scheduled for September 19.

 

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Rohit Sharma has been one of the most prominent names in Indian cricket over the past decade. As captain, he led India to the 2024 T20 World Cup title and was part of India's 2025 Champions Trophy-winning campaign.

With Family Full House with Rohit Sharma, the cricketer now takes on a new entertainment role as he makes his television debut. The show will premiere on September 19, 2026, on Sony Entertainment Television and Sony LIV.

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

BREAKING: Hanuman Ansh ends with the promise of a sequel; writer-director Vishal Chaturvedi begins work on the second part

The month of August turned out to be a miraculous one thanks to Hanuman Ansh. Released on August 7, the film collected just Rs. 1.07 crore in its first week. The collections slipped to just Rs. 50 lakhs in its second week. After collecting a mere Rs. 5 lakhs on Thursday, August 20, Hanuman Ansh surprisingly collected Rs. 15 lakhs the next day, on August 21. While it earned Rs. 95 lakhs on August 22, the earnings zoomed to Rs. 2.58 crores on Sunday, August 23.

Since then, there has been no looking back for the film. Its third-week collections were Rs. 11.09 crores, while in its fourth weekend it earned Rs. 30 crores, shocking the trade and industry. Hanuman Ansh has earned approx. Rs. 42 crores to date and it seems like it now has a shot at crossing the Rs. 100 crore mark if it holds in the weekdays and the coming week. For a film made in a few crores and made in just Rs. 10 lakhs, this is a historic feat and it has been possible due to positive word of mouth and marketing.

Interestingly, audiences who ventured out to watch Hanuman Ansh have realized that the film ends with the promise of a sequel. A slate at the end mentions that the story of Neeb Karori Baba is yet to be completed. Over the weekend, the team of the film visited a multiplex in Agra, where they interacted with the viewers. Later, speaking to the media, writer-director Vishal Chaturvedi revealed that work has begun on the sequel.

Vishal also revealed that the second part will focus on Neeb Karori Baba’s life in his birthplace, Firozabad, and will then explore his life in Agra, Mathura, etc. Interestingly, Neeb Karori Baba’s family was based in Agra. Lead actor Shobhinaw Satyaa was also present alongside Vishal Chaturvedi at the interaction in the Agra theatre.

Hanuman Ansh was officially announced on February 20 this year, and the makers had revealed at the time that it would be a trilogy. The spiritual trilogy is inspired by the book ‘Divine Detour’, which is incidentally written by Vishal Chaturvedi.

EXCLUSIVE: CBFC cuts 35 seconds of intimate scenes in Mirzapur The Movie; mutes cuss words in 4 places, replaces abuses in 6 places

On Saturday, August 29, Bollywood Hungama was among the first to inform readers that Mirzapur The Movie has been passed with an ‘A’ certificate by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). We further revealed that the run time of the film exceeds 3 hours. We now exclusively bring you the cuts given to the gangster-drama.

The CBFC asked for several cuts before handing over the censor certificate to the makers. To begin with, cuss words were muted at 4 places, while at 6 places, the abuses were replaced with ‘appropriate’ words. The dialogue ‘Galey se lag gar’ was also modified.

In the first half of the film, a word was replaced with 'kamar'. Meanwhile, in the post-interval part, the word 'lanth', which means idiot, was asked to be modified. A caste reference was also asked to be modified.

As for the visual cuts, the makers were asked to reduce intimate scenes by 50% through suitable modifications in visuals and sound. This was done in two scenes, one in first half and one in the second half. As a result, 35 seconds of intimate scenes were deleted.

Interestingly, not a single violent and gory scene was censored by the CBFC. Once these changes were made, the censor certificate was given to the makers of Mirzapur The Movie. The length of the film, as mentioned on the certificate, is 197.19 minutes. In other words, it is 3 hours, 17 minutes and 19 seconds long.

The censor certificate also mentions that Mirzapur The Movie was passed by the Revising Committee of the CBFC. Usually, the Examining Committee is the first to view the film, and when it asks for several modifications, the makers can approach the RC. The Revising Committee then reviews the film and makes the final call on the certification and suggested modifications.

Mirzapur The Movie releases on September 4 and stars Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal, Divyenndu, Jitendra Kumar, Abhishek Banerjee, Rasika Dugal, Mohitt Malik, Sheeba Chadha, Rajesh Tailang, Shriya Pilgaonkar, Harshita Shekhar Gaur, Shweta Tripathi, Sonal S Chauhan, Anangsha Biswas, Shaji Choudhary, Sushant Singh and above all, Ravi Kishan.

Also Read: Mirzapur: The Movie teaser out – Ali Fazal, Pankaj Tripathi return ahead of September 4 release

Chandrachur Singh files FIR over alleged forgery of grandfather’s will, accuses family members

Actor Chandrachur Singh has approached the police over a long-running family inheritance dispute, alleging that his grandfather’s will was forged to prevent his late father from receiving his rightful share of the family property. According to PTI, Singh has named his aunt Gaytri Devi, two cousins and four other family members in the FIR.

The complaint was registered at Rorawar police station in Aligarh on Friday. Singh has alleged that the signature of his grandfather, Thakur Harender Pal Singh, was forged on a will in 1997, at a time when his grandfather was seriously unwell and, according to the actor, was not in a condition to sign legal documents.

Singh has accused his uncle Ganga Singh and other relatives of being involved in the alleged forgery. He claimed that the disputed document resulted in his father, Captain Baldev Singh, being deprived of his share of the family inheritance.

The actor further alleged that his father was not present in Aligarh when the will was purportedly prepared. He also claimed that another uncle, Puniya Pratap Singh, had passed away before Harender Pal Singh.

According to the complaint, several valuable properties mentioned in the disputed will were subsequently sold over the years. Singh said on Friday evening that he had collected sufficient evidence to back his allegations. He also confirmed that he recorded his statement before the police following the registration of the FIR.

Gaytri Devi Had Earlier Rejected Allegations

The family dispute had come into the public domain last year when Gaytri Devi denied the allegations against her. She had accused Chandrachur Singh of attempting to falsely implicate her and maintained that the will was genuine.

Singh’s father, Captain Baldev Singh, was a former Congress MLA from Aligarh city and died a few years ago.

The police have now registered a case and begun investigating the allegations. The claims made by Chandrachur Singh in the FIR are allegations at this stage and have not yet been established.

Chandrachur Singh’s Film Career

Chandrachur Singh has worked in Hindi cinema for several years and is known for films such as Maachis, Kya Kehna and Josh. He starred alongside Shah Rukh Khan and Aishwarya Rai in Josh. His filmography also includes Cuttputlli and several other projects.

Also Read : Chandrachur Singh interacts with officials during Gurugram demolition drive outside his residence

Sonam Wangchuk REACTS to Aamir Khan’s 3 Idiots claim: “Maybe he was so deeply into his Ghajini character that he forgot meeting me”

Sonam Wangchuk has reacted to Aamir Khan’s statement that he had never met the innovator before making 3 Idiots and that his character Phunsuk Wangdu was not inspired by Wangchuk. Responding to Aamir’s claim during a podcast with Prakhar Gupta, Wangchuk recalled their meeting and funnily suggested that the actor may have forgotten the interaction.

“He said we had never met. Then some videos emerged in which he was watching my speech in his Ghajini outfit. As he was in the Ghajini look, maybe he would have suffered short-term memory loss. He must have forgotten after 15 minutes. I am not shocked. We had a detailed meet,” Wangchuk said.

Wangchuk also took a dig at Aamir’s reputation for immersing himself deeply into his characters. “We have heard that he enters deeply into his characters. Maybe he was so deeply into his Ghajini character that he forgot that he attended the award function where I was awarded. We had a detailed meet and we discussed a lot of ideas,” he added.

Wangchuk also explained why he believes their interaction could have influenced certain elements of Aamir’s character in 3 Idiots and it not necessarily would have been his direct biography or based completely on him. “This is what is called influence and inspiration. Maybe he would have taken some parts (of his life) and added in the script. Maybe he didn’t tell his team that he saw all this and spoke with me. He would have said he has added these things just like that. So, the writers and the director wouldn’t have known that Aamir added these details after meeting someone and discussing with him. That’s why he must have forgotten. It doesn’t matter to me,” he said.

Wangchuk’s latest remarks have once again brought the debate into focus, with the innovator maintaining that he had met Aamir before the film and that the two had discussed several ideas during their meeting.

For the unversed, Aamir’s comments came in July shortly after Omi Vaidya, who played Chatur in 3 Idiots, said that the superstar’s character was inspired from Sonam Wangchuk. It was a period when Sonam was on a hunger strike during the students’ protest in response to the leak of NEET question paper.

Also Read: Reema Kagti scolded Aamir Khan for “4-5 hours” for landing up late on Talaash sets; actor had gone to attend Sachin Tendulkar’s party: “She hasn’t let me forget about it till today”

Why Toxic is more than just another gangster drama: 5 reasons to watch Yash’s latest

Rocking Star Yash’s Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups is not your typical commercial entertainer. The gangster drama unfolds through a distinctive narrative style, combining action, romance, family dynamics, and layered character arcs to create a world that demands your attention.

From its powerhouse performances to its ambitious visual scale, here are five reasons why Toxic deserves to be experienced on the big screen.

1. A gutsy film that dares to tell its story differently Toxic doesn’t take the familiar route. It is bold in its storytelling and builds its narrative in a way that gradually reveals the many layers of its world and characters. The film moves beyond the conventional gangster drama, bringing together action, emotion, love, and family against a larger-than-life backdrop.

2. It’s a film you may want to watch twice There is plenty happening beneath the surface in Toxic. The storytelling is layered and deliberately complex, with details, character motivations and narrative threads that may reveal themselves differently on a second viewing. It is the kind of film that invites you to revisit its world and piece together the larger picture.

3. A performance-heavy film led by Yash and an impressive ensemble At its centre is Yash, and Toxic is very much a showcase of the actor. But the film also gives its ensemble plenty to work with. Nayanthara brings a fearless intensity to her part, Kiara Advani leaves a striking impression, and Huma Qureshi delivers a performance that is haunting and powerful. Meanwhile, Rukmini Vasanth emerges as one of the film’s biggest surprises.

4. A different and softer side of Yash While Toxic is packed with intensity and action, its romantic moments bring a different dimension to the film. Yash’s scenes with Kiara reveal a softer and more vulnerable side of his character, adding emotional depth to the larger narrative. The romance is handled with restraint, allowing the chemistry and emotion between the characters to speak for themselves.

5. International-scale action and striking cinematography The action in Toxic is mounted on an ambitious scale, complemented by cinematography that gives the film a distinct visual identity. From its expansive world-building to its action set pieces, the film aims for a cinematic experience that feels grand, immersive, and unlike the usual.

Also Read: Toxic – A Fairy Tale For Grown-Ups BTS: JJ Perry reveals how Yash pulled off the vicious fight action sequence

Reports of Kareena Kapoor Khan doing Arati Kadav’s film produced by Harman Baweja are untrue: Source

There have been reports suggesting that Kareena Kapoor Khan is set to be a part of filmmaker Arati Kadav’s upcoming film, which is being produced by Harman Baweja. However, the reports are not true.

Clarifying the speculation surrounding the project, a source stated, “The news of Kareena Kapoor being a part of Aarti Kadav’s film, produced by Harman Baweja, is untrue. Kareena is not associated with the project, and reports suggesting otherwise are incorrect. There is no confirmation of her involvement in the film.”

The clarification makes it clear that Kareena is not associated with Arati Kadav’s film at present. While reports had suggested that the actress would be part of the project, there is no confirmation of her involvement.

Arati Kadav, known for her last film Mrs., has several projects in her filmography as a filmmaker. Kareena Kapoor Khan, meanwhile, continues to have a busy professional schedule. She will next be seen in filmmaker Meghna Gulzar’s keenly-awaited Daayra, which also stars Prithviraj Sukumaran. The film is set to release in theatres on September 18.

Also Read: Daayra trailer to be released on August 31; makers drop new poster featuring Kareena Kapoor Khan, Prithviraj Sukumaran ahead of September release

Captain India: Bhushan Kumar film starring Kartik Aaryan to go on floors in London on September 1

Kartik Aaryan is set to begin work on one of his much-awaited projects, Captain India. The action drama, directed by Shimit Amin, is scheduled to go on floors in London on September 1, 2026. The shoot is expected to continue through October, with the makers planning to wrap the schedule by the end of the month.

Captain India is inspired by the true events surrounding India’s courageous evacuation mission from a war-torn country. The film is being envisioned as an ambitious action drama that combines large-scale sequences with an emotionally driven narrative centred around a remarkable chapter involving the country and its people.

The project brings together Kartik Aaryan and filmmaker Shimit Amin, who is known for helming acclaimed films including Chak De! India. The latter continues to remain relevant and resonate with audiences years after its release, making Amin’s involvement in a story rooted in courage and national spirit particularly noteworthy.

Produced by Bhushan Kumar of T-Series and Baweja Studio, in association with Dopamine Studios, with production by S B Films, Captain India brings together a team aiming to mount the story on a large canvas. While Kartik Aaryan leads the project, the film is also expected to feature an ensemble cast, details of which are awaited.

The screenplay and story have been developed by Nash Vazifdar, Sanchit Gupta and Priyadarshee Shrivastava. With the film drawing inspiration from real events, the makers are looking to balance the action and scale with the human emotions at the heart of the evacuation mission.

For Kartik Aaryan, Captain India adds another ambitious project to his upcoming slate and sees him collaborate with Shimit Amin for the first time. The actor will be stepping into a story that is expected to demand both physical intensity and emotional depth.

Meanwhile, Bhushan Kumar and T-Series continue to back projects that seek to combine commercial scale with strong, content-driven narratives. With its London shoot beginning on September 1, Captain India is now moving into the production phase.

The film is scheduled to arrive in cinemas on August 13, 2027, during the Independence Day weekend.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Kartik Aaryan joined by Qarib Qarib Single actress Parvathy Thiruvothu in Captain India; shooting begins next month

Aamir Khan, Sidharth Malhotra, and Tiger Shroff to come together for the first time for Race Reboot: Report

Aamir Khan is reportedly set to join hands with Sidharth Malhotra and Tiger Shroff for the much-awaited Race Reboot. The upcoming project is said to be a fresh take on the popular action thriller franchise, which originally featured Saif Ali Khan in the first two instalments before Salman Khan took the lead in the third film.

The Race franchise has developed a cult following over the years, with the first two films starring Saif Ali Khan becoming popular for their high-octane action, twists and turns, and ensemble cast. Race 3, which arrived later with Salman Khan in the lead, took the series in a different direction.

Now, the reboot is reportedly being planned with an entirely new star cast. While Sidharth Malhotra’s name has been associated with the project for some time, Tiger Shroff has also recently been linked to the film. According to current reports, Aamir Khan is the latest major name to be added to the much-anticipated project. A source was quoted telling Pinkvilla, “Aamir has liked the script and is very involved in the writing process. He is working closely with the writers to develop the material further. He feels that the reboot can bring a completely new flavour to the Race franchise”

The source further revealed that the upcoming film is being envisioned as a thriller unlike anything previously attempted in India, with the makers looking to introduce a fresh perspective to the franchise. “It’s a thriller unlike anything done before in India. The idea is to take the franchise into a new space and create something that feels fresh for the audience. A strong ensemble will come on board the film, and the casting will be announced at the right time,” the source added.

Aamir Khan is reportedly taking an active interest in the development of the project and is said to be ensuring that the script reaches the desired level before making a final commitment. In a concluding statement, the source reportedly stated, “Aamir is very excited to embark on this journey of Race. He is taking his time to make sure the script reaches the level he wants before he commits fully. The idea is to make Race Reboot a big-screen thriller with a strong ensemble and a completely fresh flavour.”

Race Reboot is said to be directed by Vijay Krishna Acharya, who has previously collaborated with Aamir Khan on two action thrillers — Dhoom 3 and Thugs of Hindostan. If Aamir comes on board, the project will mark their third collaboration in the action-thriller space.

Meanwhile, Ramesh Taurani of Tips Films has reportedly already begun pre-production on the film. With Sidharth Malhotra, Tiger Shroff and potentially Aamir Khan forming part of the ensemble, Race Reboot is shaping up to be one of the more anticipated projects in the action thriller space.

Also Read: Ramesh Taurani clarifies Akshaye Khanna won’t return for Race 4: “The work on the script is on”

Toxic debacle effect: The Odyssey storms back into IMAX screens across India just 2 days after being ousted

On August 26, Bollywood Hungama reported that The Odyssey’s shows were taken out of IMAX screens after a historic 40-day run in order to accommodate Yash-starrer Toxic. The Odyssey consistently drew audiences and managed to collect a record Rs. 90 crores, that too from just 34 IMAX screens. Remarkably, the film continued to register encouraging occupancy right until the end of its run. As a result, our report was widely shared and discussed, sending shockwaves among fans.

It has now come to light that due to the underperformance of Toxic, The Odyssey has been brought back to all IMAX screens in the country, except Bengaluru. A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Even on its last day, The Odyssey ran with 43% occupancy, which was unbelievable. It proved that there was a lot of gas left in the tank. Warner Bros, which distributed The Odyssey, asked for just one show in IMAX, considering the continued demand, from August 26. Sadly, the demand was not accepted as the distributors of Toxic were clear that they wanted all shows in IMAX.”

The source continued, “But since Toxic had not worked as expected, the IMAX theatres were allowed to bring back The Odyssey. It was expected that, if at all this happened, it would happen next week or after a fortnight. No one imagined that The Odyssey would be back in just two days.”

Earlier today, cinemas like Cinepolis Seawoods and Cinepolis Thane near Mumbai, Cinepolis Aundh in Pune, PVR Palazzo and Inox Luxe in Chennai, and Cinepolis Centre Square in Kochi programmed shows of The Odyssey from today, August 28. Within a few hours, several more theatres joined in, including Mumbai’s PVR Lower Parel, Inox R City, Maison Inox, Miraj Wadala and Eros. PVR Lower Parel and Cinepolis Seawoods will screen two shows of The Odyssey, while Delhi’s IMAX cinemas have also come on board with one show each of the Matt Damon-starrer. Cinepolis Aundh and Inox Megaplex in Pune, along with Inox Megaplex in Lucknow, will screen one show today before increasing it to two from tomorrow. Rajhans Surat and Inox South City Kolkata will also play two shows, while PVR Palladium will screen one show of the Hollywood hit.

Meanwhile, Broadway Cinemas in Coimbatore never discontinued The Odyssey. It was the only IMAX cinema in India to continue playing the film even after August 26, and it will continue to screen two shows. Bengaluru, meanwhile, remains the only centre in India where IMAX screens will continue to play Toxic without accommodating The Odyssey, at least until the weekend.

It is also important to note that on August 26, Toxic recorded 51.6% occupancy in IMAX, while The Odyssey registered 48.7%. On Thursday, August 27, Toxic’s occupancy dropped sharply to 17.4%, while The Odyssey remained steady at 37.6%.

It now remains to be seen whether The Odyssey can cross the Rs. 100 crore mark now that it is back in IMAX.

Also Read: From Thunderous Sound to Raw Aura: Why Toxic is one of the biggest theatrical events of 2026

Uorfi hospitalised, shares photos from hospital bed: “Anaesthesia ke alag maze hai bhai”

Uorfi  has sparked concern among her fans after sharing a series of pictures from a hospital bed on social media. The actor and social media personality referred to the hospital visit as her “yearly admission in the hospital”, although she did not clarify whether the remark was serious, sarcastic or related to a routine annual health check-up.

 

In one of the pictures, Uorfi could be seen posing from the hospital bed while the song ‘Itni Shakti Hame De Na Data’ played in the background. She subsequently shared a photograph showing an IV cannula attached to her hand and captioned it, “Worst part!”

Uorfi later posted another picture from the hospital and appeared to comment on the effects of anaesthesia. She wrote, “Anesthesia k alag maze hai bhai.” However, neither Uorfi nor her team has so far shared details about the reason for her hospitalisation or revealed what medical procedure, if any, she underwent.

The recent post has also brought attention to Uorfi’s previous health-related disclosures. In January 2026, she opened up about a difficult phase in her life when her weight had dropped to 38 kg. At the time, she said she was "so sick and depressed." Uorfi revealed that she had been eating only one meal a day and avoiding carbohydrates. According to her, the restrictive routine affected her mood, leaving her feeling extremely moody, angry and irritated. She also recalled experiencing facial swelling despite being significantly underweight and later said weight training helped her feel better.

In June 2026, Uorfi also spoke about severe facial swelling that she had experienced around a year and a half earlier. Addressing speculation that the swelling was caused by fillers, she clarified that it was instead linked to allergies, stress and increased cortisol levels. She further revealed that she is allergic to cats despite having three pet cats at home.

Uorfi’s previous publicly reported hospitalisation was in January 2024, when she shared a photograph of herself wearing an oxygen mask from a hospital bed. At the time, she captioned the post, “Starting 2024 with a bang.” She later deleted the post and did not reveal the reason behind that hospital visit.

As of now, further details about Uorfi’s latest hospitalisation remain awaited.

Also Read : Sonu Sood, Preity Zinta, Soha Ali Khan among celebs extending support to students after ‘Chalo Sansad’ clashes

Manoj Bajpayee buys 4.45-acre land parcel in Pune’s Mulshi for Rs 1.37 crore: Report

Actor Manoj Bajpayee has added a land parcel in Pune district to his real estate portfolio. According to property registration documents accessed by real estate data analytics firm CRE Matrix and reported by Business Standard, the actor purchased 4.45 acres of land in Tailbaila village, located in Mulshi taluka, for Rs 1.37 crore.

The transaction was registered on August 25, 2026. The property spans 1.80 hectares, which is approximately 4.45 acres. Bajpayee paid Rs 6.87 lakhs as stamp duty for the transaction. Based on the registered consideration, the purchase works out to around Rs 30.9 lakhs per acre. Details of Manoj Bajpayee’s Pune Land Deal According to the registration documents, Bajpayee acquired the property from Vimalchand Khimraj Jain. The transaction carries a consideration value of Rs 1.37 crore.

The acquisition marks a move beyond the actor’s existing real estate holdings in Mumbai. Bajpayee and his wife, Shabana Raza Bajpayee, have previously been involved in several property transactions in the city, including purchases, sales and leases of residential and commercial properties. Manoj Bajpayee’s Mumbai Property Investments In October 2023, Bajpayee and his wife purchased four commercial office units in Mumbai’s Oshiwara area for Rs 32.94 crores. The properties, located in the Signature Building off Veera Desai Road, had a combined carpet area of 7,620 square feet and included nine parking spaces. The transaction attracted a stamp duty of Rs 1.86 crore.

The couple later leased out two of those office units. In April 2025, they entered into a five-year lease agreement with Barcode Influencer Marketing Pvt Ltd. The lease started at a monthly rent of Rs 10.94 lakhs and includes a 5% annual escalation. The agreement also involved a security deposit of Rs 43.7 lakhs and six parking spaces.

Bajpayee and his wife had also sold a 1,247-square-foot apartment in Mumbai’s Mahalaxmi in August 2024 for Rs 9 crores. They had purchased the apartment in 2013 for Rs 6.40 crores, according to property records cited by Business Standard.

Also Read: Last Man In Tower to hit theatres on September 11 starring Manoj Bajpayee, Divya Dutta and Boman Irani

Don’t Be Shy teaser: Alia Bhatt and Shaheen Bhatt’s coming-of-age film promises love, friendship and chaos

Prime Video has unveiled the teaser of Don’t Be Shy, an upcoming coming-of-age romantic comedy produced by Alia Bhatt and Shaheen Bhatt under their banner, Eternal Sunshine Productions. The film introduces Aarushi Bajaj, Piyush Khati, Bianca Arora and Ansh Duggal in the lead roles.

Written and directed by Sreeti Mukerji, the film follows Shyamili ‘Shy’ Das, a 20-year-old who believes she has her life figured out until an unexpected turn of events disrupts her plans. The teaser offers a glimpse into her friendships, relationships and the uncertainties that come with growing up.

Aarushi Bajaj plays Shy, while Piyush Khati, Bianca Arora and Ansh Duggal play Mayank, Tara and Dhruv, respectively. The teaser introduces the young characters through a mix of friendship, romance and the ups and downs of college life.

The film explores first love, friendship, heartbreak and self-discovery as its characters navigate their early adult years. Alongside the young cast, Don’t Be Shy features Kunaal Roy Kapur, Anurag Basu, Neha Dhupia and Anju Alva Naik in pivotal roles.

 

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The project marks another production venture for Alia Bhatt and Shaheen Bhatt's Eternal Sunshine Productions. The sisters have previously backed projects including Darlings, Jigra and Poacher.

Don’t Be Shy is co-produced by Grishma Shah and Vikesh Bhutani under Chalkboard Entertainment. The film will stream exclusively on Prime Video in Hindi with English subtitles from September 25, 2026, and will be available across India and more than 240 countries and territories worldwide.

Also Read: Karan Johar jokes about Don’t Be Shy director Sreeti Mukerji: “She lost weight after working on Brahmastra…we promise that part 2 will NOT take 7 years!”

Waheeda Rehman to attend inaugural Indian Film Festival of New Zealand; Teesri Kasam to open, Pakeezah to close the fest

New Zealand, where almost 5 per cent of its population is of Indian origin, will finally get its own Indian film festival. Spread across 3 days and 3 cities, the Indian Film Festival of New Zealand promises 30 film screenings, industry panels, Q&A post-screenings, networking events, and an awards evening. The first edition will showcase 10 features, 16 shorts, and 4 special screenings. With 11 languages, including Gujarati, Bengali, Malayalam, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, French, Japanese, Hindi, English, Nepali, Kashmiri, Punjabi, and Kumaoni, and even a silent film, the festival is celebrating languages and storytelling from across India.

The highlight for the year is celebrating films that have been restored by Film Heritage Foundation and NFAI-NFDC. The opening film is Teesri Kasam, which was recently restored by NFAI-NFDC and has legendary actress Waheeda Rehman and Raj Kapoor in lead roles. The first edition will have legendary actress Waheeda Rehman attend the opening night screening on Oct 22, as the festival honors her contribution to Indian cinema.

Waheeda Rehman QUOTE, "Cinema has always had the power to bring people and cultures closer. I am delighted to see TIFFNZ celebrating the richness and diversity of Indian cinema in New Zealand. Teesri Kasam is a film very close to my heart, and I am especially pleased that it will open the festival, allowing a new generation of audiences to discover its timeless story and poetry."

Festival director Petrina D’Rozario said, "For the closing, Pakeezah, which was restored by the Film Heritage Foundation and founder director Shivendra Singh Dungarpur, has kindly given us the film for the NZ audience. Our festival would be the second festival in the world to have screened the film after it’s been restored. We are excited to be one of the first audiences to watch this iconic film from 1972. Many of whom may have never seen these films before."

Petrina D’Rozario further adds, "TIFFNZ is more than a celebration of Indian cinema; it’s a bridge between India and NZ! Through the festival we want the NZ audience to discover India, and our extraordinary stories to travel to the furthest part of the world. At its heart, TIFFNZ is about bringing people, stories, cultures, languages together through cinema."

The festival will be a one-of-a-kind annual event for discussions that bridge the screen industries and geographies, fostering collaboration and driving more screen opportunities and cultural exchange between New Zealand and India.

Over the coming weeks, stay tuned as we unveil the list of directors, actors, and movies that will be present at the festival.

Also Read: Sayani Gupta’s directorial debut Aasmani pulled from Indian Film Festival of New Zealand amid copyright dispute

Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia suffers deadlift injury; says, “I will bounce back, but I also want to bounce back the right way”

Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia has opened up about a recent injury she suffered during a workout session. The actor reportedly injured herself while performing a deadlift and was subsequently required to take complete bed rest. Sharing an update on social media, Nimrit spoke about the experience and emphasised the need to prioritise recovery while training.

For Nimrit, who maintains an active fitness routine, the injury has meant temporarily stepping away from her regular workouts. However, the actor said she is viewing the break as an opportunity to allow her body to recover rather than treating it as a setback. She said, “This has honestly been one of the most painful experiences for me, and it has made me realise once again that no matter how strong or experienced you think you are, you can never take your body or a workout movement lightly. I injured myself while doing a deadlift, and it was serious enough that I had to take complete bed rest. For someone who loves being active and enjoys training, being forced to pause is not easy, but I have realised that sometimes you have to stop, rest and allow your body to recover. I don’t mind pausing right now because I know I am preparing myself for the battle that comes ahead. I will bounce back, but I also want to bounce back the right way.”

Nimrit also used the experience to underline the importance of paying attention to physical fatigue, sleep and nutrition while exercising. She urged those who train regularly to give recovery the same importance as their workouts. “I would genuinely urge everyone to be mindful whilst training & listening to your body. If your body feels fatigued, if you are under slept, if your nutrition isn’t proper; take active measures to fix it. Recovery is as important as training. And we often miss out on balancing between the two. I have had to acknowledge & learn this the hard way, you shouldn’t have to,” Nimrit added.

The actor is currently focusing on rest and recuperation as she works towards returning to her fitness routine. Rather than rushing her comeback, Nimrit has indicated that she intends to give herself the time required to recover properly.

Her latest update also highlights a more measured approach to fitness, with the actor acknowledging that pushing physical limits needs to be balanced with adequate rest and recovery. For now, Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia is taking a pause before preparing to resume her training and other professional commitments.

Also Read: Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia recalls shooting Ab Hoga Hisaab in Punjab: “It truly felt like a homecoming”

Harshvardhan Rane reveals he is doing two films with Partner producer Parag Sanghvi

Actor Harshvardhan Rane has revealed that he is set to collaborate with producer Parag Sanghvi on two films. The actor, who is currently receiving attention for his performance in Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat, shared the update on social media.

Rane posted a picture with Sanghvi and announced their upcoming collaboration. “Finally doing two films together with my close friend Parag Sanghvi,” the actor wrote.

 

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Harshvardhan Rane and Parag Sanghvi to collaborate on two films While Rane has not revealed details about the titles, genres or characters he will play in the two projects, his announcement confirms that the actor and Sanghvi are working together on multiple films.

Sanghvi has previously backed several notable Hindi films, including Partner. The producer's association with Rane now marks a new collaboration as the actor continues to expand his upcoming slate.

The announcement comes at a significant point in Rane's career following Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat. The actor has also been linked to several projects in recent months, including Police Company, which is being directed by Ram Gopal Varma. Harshvardhan Rane To Play Daya Nayak In Police Company As previously reported by Bollywood Hungama, Rane is set to portray Mumbai Police encounter specialist Daya Nayak in Police Company. The period crime thriller is being produced by T-Series and also features Fardeen Khan, Saurabh Shukla, Paresh Rawal and Makarand Deshpande in pivotal roles.

The film is being made as a two-part feature, with both instalments scheduled to be shot back-to-back. The story is set against the backdrop of Mumbai in the late 1990s and early 2000s and revolves around the city's police force and its fight against organised crime.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Ram Gopal Varma to direct Harshvardhan Rane in Police Company, based on Daya Nayak’s life

The Vvaan teaser out: Sidharth Malhotra, Tamannaah Bhatia lead a visually stunning fantasy folklore spectacle

The teaser of the large-screen fantasy folklore spectacle The Vvaan lets you into the larger-than-life entertainer that takes Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia into a mystical folklore world.

Presented by Balaji Motion Pictures, the teaser of The Vvaan opens doors to a world rarely seen in the mainstream Hindi commercial space, a visually stunning fantasy folklore spectacle rooted in mystery, ancient beliefs and the supernatural. Starring Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia in their fresh on-screen pairing, the teaser offers an exciting peek into a world that immediately leaves you wanting to know more. A forbidden forest governed by a chilling rule: “Suryast ke baad, Vvaan mein pravesh karna varjit hai.”

What immediately stands out is the grand visual scale of The Vvaan. The upcoming film takes on fantasy folklore on a scale not often seen in Bollywood’s commercial space, creating a universe made for a big-screen watch! This combination of captivating imagery, immersive visuals and a compelling soundscape transports the audience out of the everyday and into another world. One of the most important elements in creating that experience is music. The outstanding music is a standout that creates a world of its own, transporting audiences into this unfamiliar world while retaining a rooted, almost devotional quality that gives the spectacle a distinctly Indian soul.

Sidharth and Tamannaah make a dreamy pair on screen, their fresh pairing adding an emotional layer to the larger-than-life spectacle at the heart of this world. Their chemistry and screen presence offer a striking contrast to the mysterious world around them, making audiences curious about the relationship between their characters and what awaits them inside the genre-breaker, The Vvaan.

Backed by some of the country's most distinctive storytellers, The Vvaan brings together TVF’s Arunabh Kumar, director Deepak Mishra and Ektaa Kapoor for a commercial film that attempts to take Indian folklore into a new cinematic space. While its world is rooted in folklore and fantasy, the film brings together adventure, mystery and humour to shape itself as a complete family entertainer. The ambition extends beyond the film, with The Legend of Vvaan comic book already introducing audiences to the larger folklore surrounding its universe.

Presented by Balaji Motion Pictures, a division of Balaji Telefilms Ltd, in association with TVF and 11.11 Production, The Vvaan stars Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia. Written by Arunabh Kumar and directed by Deepak Mishra, with Manu Anand as DOP and Visual Director, the film is produced by Shobha Kapoor, Ektaa R Kapoor, Arunabh Kumar and Niraj Kothari.

The Vvaan arrives in cinemas on September 25, 2026, promising a big-screen fantasy folklore experience where the visuals, music, mystery and scale come together to create a world audiences will want to step into.

Also Read: Three Big Hindi Films, One Big Day: Gunmaaster G9, The Vvaan and Haiwaan trailers/teasers arrive tomorrow

Sajid Khan set to reunite with Akshay Kumar for new film: REPORT

Filmmaker Sajid Khan is reportedly set to collaborate with Akshay Kumar once again, marking a reunion between the director and actor more than a decade after their last film together. According to Filmfare, the duo is preparing to work on a new project that has already received the green light from the production house.

A source close to the development revealed, “Sajid Khan will direct Akshay Kumar again. Their new film has been green lit by the production house. Sajid is currently working on Yashvardhan Ahuja's film with Nitanshi Goel. Once that's wrapped up, Sajid and Akshay will shoot their film in London.”

Sajid Khan and Akshay Kumar previously worked together on Heyy Babyy, Housefull and Housefull 2, establishing a successful director-actor combination. Their collaboration, however, came to a halt in 2018 when Sajid stepped down as director of Housefull 4 after facing multiple sexual harassment allegations during the #MeToo movement.

At the time, Akshay had indicated that he would be willing to work with Sajid again if the filmmaker was acquitted. The reported reunion comes as Sajid is gradually returning to direction with Hero Ki Horrorine, a horror-comedy that marks the Bollywood debut of Yashvardhan Ahuja, son of actor Govinda. Nitanshi Goel, who gained recognition with Laapataa Ladies, is paired opposite him in the film.

Hero Ki Horrorine is backed by Ekta Kapoor and Shobha Kapoor's Balaji Telefilms, along with producer Amar Butala. The same production house is reportedly associated with Sajid and Akshay's upcoming project.

After completing Hero Ki Horrorine, Sajid is expected to head to London with Akshay to begin shooting the new film. However, details regarding the project's title, genre and additional cast members have not been revealed yet. The reported collaboration could mark a new chapter for the filmmaker-actor duo, whose previous films together were among their notable commercial outings.

Also Read : Ektaa R Kapoor joins hands with Amar Butala for Sajid Khan’s horror-comedy Hero Ki Horrorine

Aneet Padda approached for crucial role opposite Ranbir Kapoor in Brahmastra 2

Fans have been eagerly awaiting updates on Brahmastra 2 ever since Brahmastra Part One: Shiva arrived in theatres in 2022. Directed by Ayan Mukerji, the first installment featured Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt in the lead, alongside Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Nagarjuna and Mouni Roy in pivotal roles. The film introduced audiences to the Astraverse and ended with several questions surrounding the characters and the larger story.

Speculation about the sequel has continued, particularly following the post-credit sequence of the first film. The scene appeared to tease Deepika Padukone’s character, although her face was blurred. She was shown holding a child, prompting several theories about how her character could fit into the next chapter. Deepika was subsequently expected to play a significant role in Brahmastra 2.

Amid the continued buzz around the much-awaited sequel, we hear that actress Aneet Padda has also been approached for a role in the film. The actress, who gained wider attention following Saiyaara last year, has emerged as one of the young actors attracting interest in the industry.

Aneet is currently working on Shakti Shalini. According to sources, she has been approached for a crucial role opposite Ranbir Kapoor in Brahmastra 2. However, discussions are still underway and her casting has not been officially confirmed.

A source tells us, “Aneet has been approached for an important role in Brahmastra 2. The conversations are currently underway, but nothing has been finalised yet. It is a very different space from what audiences have seen her do so far, which makes the possibility of her joining the franchise interesting.”

If Aneet eventually comes on board, her inclusion could bring another new dimension to the ensemble of Brahmastra 2. Her potential pairing with Ranbir would also mark an interesting addition to the franchise.

Meanwhile, there is also a development concerning Deepika Padukone. According to the latest information, Deepika’s team has denied reports of her involvement in the sequel and stated that the actress is not a part of Brahmastra 2. This adds another layer of uncertainty around the film’s casting as fans continue to wait for official announcements.

Also Read : Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda reflect on the first anniversary of Saiyaara: “We never knew Saiyaara would reach so many people”

EMOMEE launches first show on Netflix, marks global streaming debut 15 months after launch

EMOMEE, the fast-growing children's entertainment brand helping children build life skills through its beloved characters, E, Mo & Mee, has officially launched its first show on Netflix.

Just 15 months after launch, EMOMEE has grown into one of India's fastest-rising preschool IPs, reaching families in over 100 countries, crossing more than a billion views, building a community of over 2.5 million subscribers, and earning national recognition on Shark Tank India, where the founders received offers from all five Sharks.

The Netflix launch marks EMOMEE’s global streaming debut and an important milestone in its ambition to build a world-class children’s entertainment franchise from India.

The first series, EMOMEE: Big Skills for Little Ones, Minis, features 20 curated 11-minute episodes that bring together the brand's most-loved stories around core life skills such as confidence, kindness, curiosity, emotional intelligence and problem-solving. Designed for preschoolers and their families, the series transforms everyday moments into engaging adventures that make learning life skills genuinely fun.

"This launch represents much more than a new distribution platform. It is another milestone in building EMOMEE into a global entertainment company. Every step we've taken - from growing a loyal audience to expanding onto streaming platforms - is helping us build a long-term franchise that will extend beyond content into consumer products, licensing and live experiences," said Pooja Jauhari, Founder & CEO of EMOMEE.

Built on the belief that entertainment can prepare children for the future, EMOMEE creates stories that help young audiences develop the life skills they'll need in an increasingly complex world. Every episode is designed around meaningful themes including resilience, communication, empathy, confidence and curiosity, wrapped in playful adventures that children love.

The Netflix launch is the latest step in EMOMEE's broader growth strategy as the company continues expanding its global footprint across streaming, live experiences, consumer products and licensing. Later this year, EMOMEE will showcase its growing slate and franchise ambitions at MIPCOM as it builds new international distribution and licensing partnerships.

Also Read: Netflix announces biggest South Indian slate of 2026, plans new Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam films every week

Shantanu Maheshwari inspires young creators at Arena Animation’s Perspectives 2026 in Mumbai

Arena Animation, a pioneer in animation, gaming, visual effects, and digital media education and a training brand of Aptech Limited, successfully concluded the Mumbai edition of Perspectives 2026, its flagship annual industry engagement platform, bringing together over 1000 students, industry professionals, creative leaders and renowned personalities from the Media & Entertainment ecosystem.

Celebrating 30 years of creative excellence, this year's edition was built around the theme of inspiring the next generation of creative professionals by connecting them with real-world industry perspectives, emerging artificial intelligence (AI) powered creative workflows, emerging technologies and career opportunities within the rapidly evolving AVGC-XR (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics and Extended Reality) sector.

The event featured distinguished personalities including Dr. Amit Behl, acclaimed actor and television personality, Mr. Shantanu Maheshwari, a versatile actor, dancer and performer, Actor Aditya Deshmukh, a popular face across Marathi and Hindi entertainment, Mr. Vaibhav More, Director, Designer & Animator who delivered a special session on AI in Animation & VFX, Mr. Vineeth S, Country Manager – Media & Entertainment, Ark Infosolutions, along with Mr. Sandip Weling, Whole-time Director & Chief Business Officer, Global Retail Business, Aptech Limited and Mr. Shajan Samuel, Sr. Vice President & National Sales Head- (Arena Animation), Aptech Limited.

The day-long event blended industry learning with immersive student experiences through keynote sessions, AI demonstrations, celebrity interactions and talent showcases, reinforcing Arena Animation's commitment to nurturing industry-ready creative professionals.

Students gained first-hand insights into the evolving creative economy, the growing influence of AI in content creation, emerging industry skill requirements and career opportunities across animation, VFX, gaming, digital design and filmmaking. The celebrity interactions further inspired participants through personal stories of perseverance, career evolution and continuous learning.

Media & Entertainment Skills Council (MESC) collaborated as the Industry Partner and Huion as the Technology Partner for Perspectives 2026. These collaborations underscore Arena Animation's continued focus on building stronger industry-academia linkages, enhancing experiential learning and ensuring students gain exposure to evolving technologies, industry standards and career opportunities shaping India's rapidly growing AVGC-XR ecosystem.

Beyond industry interactions, Perspectives 2026 transformed into a vibrant student festival featuring Arena’s Got Talent, Cosplay Ramp Walk, interactive engagement activities, AI showcases and the popular Khau Gully Food Zone, providing students with multiple platforms to celebrate creativity, collaboration and self-expression.

The event also highlighted Arena Animation's strategic focus on strengthening industry-academia collaboration, integrating emerging technologies into learning and encouraging original intellectual property creation through initiatives such as Arena Animation Originals. These initiatives reflect the institute's vision of developing globally competitive creative professionals equipped with future-ready skills.

Mr. Sandip Weling, Whole-time Director & Chief Business Officer, Global Retail Business, Aptech Limited, said, "As Arena Animation celebrates three decades of shaping creative talent, Perspectives has evolved beyond an industry interaction into a platform where inspiration meets opportunity. The creative economy is witnessing rapid transformation with AI, immersive technologies and digital storytelling redefining how content is created. Through Perspectives 2026, we wanted our students to experience these changes first-hand by learning directly from industry leaders, technology experts and creative professionals who are shaping the future. Equally important was giving our students a stage to showcase their own creativity, confidence and passion. At Arena Animation, our endeavour is to create professionals who are not only technically proficient but also innovative, adaptable and globally employable."

Dr. Amit Behl, said, "The creative industry today offers immense opportunities for young people willing to learn, adapt and stay passionate about their craft. It was wonderful interacting with Arena Animation students who displayed remarkable enthusiasm and curiosity. Their creativity and energy reaffirm that India's next generation of storytellers, artists and creators is ready to make a global impact."

Mr. Shantanu Maheshwari added, "Every creative journey begins with a dream, but it is discipline, continuous learning and resilience that transform dreams into careers. Meeting these talented students and witnessing their passion through Arena’s Got Talent and other activities was truly inspiring. I hope they continue believing in themselves and embrace every opportunity that comes their way."

With India's AVGC-XR sector witnessing unprecedented growth and creative technology reshaping the future of entertainment, advertising, gaming and digital experiences, Arena Animation continues to strengthen its academic ecosystem by integrating AI-enabled workflows, industry collaborations and experiential learning into its curriculum.

As it marks 30 years of creative excellence, Arena Animation remains committed to empowering aspiring artists, designers, storytellers, animators and innovators with industry-relevant skills, global exposure and future-ready education, while contributing meaningfully to India's growing creative economy and AVGC-XR ecosystem.

Also Read: Shantanu Maheshwari continues Campus Beats: The Game of Love promotions despite ankle injury

Akshay Kumar begins shooting for alien action thriller Samuk

Akshay Kumar has officially gone into alien territory. The actor has begun shooting for his much-awaited survival-action thriller Samuk, marking the reunion of him and producer-filmmaker Vipul Amrutlal Shah for their seventh collaboration. Directed by Kanishk Varma, the film has gone on floors in London and is being mounted as a large-scale Pan-India theatrical release with global production ambitions.

According to industry sources, Akshay Kumar began filming for Samuk on August 23, 2026. As per an earlier report by Variety, the shooting was expected to commence in London as the makers are expected to shoot approximately 90 per cent of the film in the England capital, with the remaining portions planned in Mumbai. The production is being executed as one continuous schedule rather than being divided into multiple shooting legs.

The film, which has been in development for over two years, combines military realism, survival horror and alien mythology. The makers have brought together an international technical team to create the world of Samuk, including Academy Award-nominated creature effects designer Alec Gillis, who has worked on major creature-driven franchises including Alien and Predator. Gillis has designed the central alien creature for the film.

AKSHAY KUMAR - VIPUL AMRUTLAL SHAH REUNITE – ALIEN ACTION THRILLER 'SAMUK' SHOOTING BEGINS... #AkshayKumar is heading where he hasn't gone before – alien territory.

The actor has begun shooting for #Samuk, an ambitious survival-action thriller that brings together an… pic.twitter.com/dc4HMlStnn — taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) August 24, 2026

The action is being designed by British action director Luke Tumber, further adding to the international scale of the project. The makers have also opted for extensive practical filmmaking, with the creature and action elements being developed to work as much as possible in a live-action environment.

Vipul Amrutlal Shah had earlier told Bollywood Hungama, “We are going to shoot extensively abroad. We plan to release it in 2027.” Speaking about the scale of the project, he had explained that the film was being developed to meet the expectations of audiences who now have access to global cinema through streaming platforms.

For Vipul Shah and Akshay Kumar, Samuk marks their seventh film together and another departure into a new genre. The producer has previously spoken about Akshay’s deep involvement in the project, revealing that the actor has been actively participating in discussions around various aspects of the film.

With filming now underway in London, Samuk is gearing up as one of Akshay Kumar’s most ambitious upcoming theatrical projects, bringing together a homegrown action star, an international creature-design team and a survival thriller set against an alien backdrop.

Also Read: Akshay Kumar’s alien thriller Samuk to begin London shoot on August 23

Ajay Devgn returns with Drishyam The Conclusion, set to release on October 2, 2026, poster out

Ajay Devgn is set to return as Vijay Salgaonkar in Drishyam The Conclusion, the final chapter of the popular Drishyam franchise. The upcoming film is presented by Star Studio18 and produced by Panorama Studios.

Directed by Abhishek Pathak, the film has been written by Abhishek Pathak, Aamil Keeyan Khan and Parveez Shaikh. The story will once again follow Vijay Salgaonkar, the character played by Ajay Devgn, as the franchise moves towards its concluding chapter.

Drishyam The Conclusion is produced by Alok Jain, Ajit Andhare, Kumar Mangat Pathak and Abhishek Pathak. The makers have announced that the film will arrive in theatres on 2nd October 2026.

With Ajay Devgn reprising one of his most recognised roles as Vijay Salgaonkar, the film is positioned as the concluding chapter of the franchise. The announcement has also set the stage for the return of the character whose story has remained central to the Drishyam series.

Also Read: Ajay Devgn extends heartfelt birthday wishes to Drishyam director Abhishek Pathak; says, “Can’t wait for Drishyam 3!”

SCOOP: John Abraham undergoes his BIGGEST physical transformation yet for Maria IPS; ages from 20s to 60s for Rohit Shetty’s flick

After Singham Again (2024), blockbuster filmmaker Rohit Shetty began working on a gritty action entertainer based on the life of decorated police officer Rakesh Maria. In January this year, Bollywood Hungama was the first one to reveal that the film has been titled Maria IPS. Now we bring to you another interesting piece of information about this film.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “John Abraham will be seen in a never-before-seen avatar in the film. Maria IPS spans nearly 40 years in the life of Rakesh Maria, tracing his journey from his 20s to his 60s. For the portions featuring Maria in his 20s and 30s, John bulked up and put on muscle to look the part. For the scenes where the character is in his late 50s and 60s, the actor underwent another physical transformation, losing weight to sport a leaner and fitter look.”

The source further said, “John has never undergone this kind of physical transformation for a film before. Audiences will get to see him across different stages of Rakesh Maria’s life, and his transformation is sure to take them by surprise.”

The shoot of Maria IPS began in July 2025, with the first schedule taking place at Ellora Studios near Mumbai, where a police station set was erected. During the two-week schedule, John Abraham and Rohit Shetty filmed several dramatic police station scenes and high-intensity interrogation sequences.

In February, we reported that portions of Maria IPS were also shot at various Western Railway premises. Vineet Abhishek, Chief Public Relations Officer, Western Railway (WR), exclusively told Bollywood Hungama, “John Abraham shot at the WR Headquarters in Churchgate, Lower Parel railway station and Mumbai Central railway station for Maria IPS.”

Also Read: SCOOP: John Abraham reunites with The Diplomat director Shivam Nair for two-hero action thriller

Anushka Ranjan and Aditya Seal welcome twin baby girls, Vira and Mahi

Aditya Seal and his wife, actor Anushka Ranjan, have stepped into parenthood with double the joy. The couple has welcomed twin baby girls and shared the news with their fans on social media. Along with announcing the arrival of their daughters, Anushka and Aditya also revealed their names, making the occasion even more special for their followers.

The twins were born on August 23, 2026. The couple introduced their daughters as Vira Ranjan Seal and Mahi Ranjan Seal through an adorable announcement card featuring illustrations of two little girls. Aditya also shared a heartfelt note on Instagram, expressing his happiness and gratitude as the family begins this new chapter. "My sunshines are here to brighten our lives. Our hearts are full of love and gratitude. Vira ♾️ Mahi #TeamGirl."

 

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The couple had announced Anushka’s pregnancy earlier this year through a series of maternity photographs. In May 2026, Anushka spoke to HT City about sharing the news and explained why they had waited before making the announcement. She said, “We are a little late in sharing the news as the baby is set to arrive in September. We wanted to give ourselves some time, hence the delay. Also, it has been an overwhelming moment for us to share the news with all. I was more nervous than ever, even announcing my wedding was easier than this, but now I am at peace and relaxed, as people’s response and the way our friends reacted is so emotional for us.”

Anushka and Aditya first met on June 26, 2017, at an event organized by Anushka’s NGO, Beti. Their friendship eventually developed into a relationship, and after dating for a few years, the couple got married in Mumbai in November 2021. Nearly five years into their marriage, they have now welcomed their twin daughters, Vira and Mahi.

SCOOP: Emraan Hashmi starrer Gunmaster G9 teaser to play in theatres with Yash starrer Toxic

The teaser of Gunmaaster G9, starring Emraan Hashmi, Genelia Deshmukh and Aparshakti Khurana, is set to premiere theatrically ahead of the screening of Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-ups, offering audiences an early glimpse of the much-awaited action-romance.

While Gunmaaster G9 is slated for a worldwide theatrical release on November 27, 2026, the makers are kickstarting the film’s promotional campaign well in advance with a dedicated theatrical teaser premiere.

Rather than being attached to the print of Toxic, the teaser will be screened separately ahead of the film, giving Gunmaaster G9 a distinct theatrical showcase. With Toxic expected to draw substantial audiences, the move is poised to give the teaser an expansive reach while creating early curiosity around Emraan Hashmi’s next.

The film also marks a notable creative reunion. Soham Rockstar Entertainment and Deepak Mukut bring together Emraan Hashmi, Himesh Reshammiya and director Aditya Datt once again, following their collaboration on the 2005 musical blockbuster. Mukut is also reuniting with Himesh Reshammiya following the success of Sanam Teri Kasam.

Positioned as an action-romance, Gunmaaster G9 arrives at an interesting juncture in Emraan Hashmi’s career, following the strong response to Awarapan 2. The announcement of its release date had already generated considerable interest among the actor’s fans, and the theatrical unveiling of the teaser is expected to build further momentum around the film.

Starring Emraan Hashmi, Genelia Deshmukh, Aparshakti Khurana and introducing Abhishek Singh, Gunmaaster G9 is produced by Deepak Mukut, Hunar Mukut and Sangeeta Ahir and presented by Soham Rockstar Entertainment Pvt. Ltd. Directed by Aditya Datt, the film is slated for a worldwide theatrical release on November 27, 2026.

Gunmaaster G9 is a SRE Studio LLP production.

Also Read: Gunmaaster G9 director Aditya Datt reveals Aparshakti Khurana was his first choice to play the villain; says, “He has never played an out-and-out commercial and crazy-ass villain”

Kartik Aaryan undergoes successful knee surgery after on-set injury

Kartik Aaryan has undergone successful knee surgery after sustaining an injury while performing an action sequence on the set of his upcoming film. The actor has now returned home and is resting as he recovers from the injury.

According to a spokesperson, “Kartik Aaryan sustained a knee injury while performing an action sequence on the set of his film. His surgery was completed successfully, and he is now back home, resting and recovering. He will be back on set soon.”

The injury reportedly occurred while Kartik was shooting an action sequence for his upcoming project with filmmaker Kabir Khan. The film, which is yet to be titled, marks the actor’s second collaboration with the director after Chandu Champion. Kartik is said to be playing a kickboxing coach in the sports drama, which is inspired by the story of kickboxer Tajamul Islam.

The actor had been undergoing extensive physical preparation for the physically demanding role. However, he suffered the knee injury while filming one of the action sequences. Following the incident, Kartik underwent medical treatment and was advised to take rest after completing the surgery.

The latest update comes as Kartik continues to have several projects lined up. His collaboration with Kabir Khan has generated interest, particularly after the actor’s performance in Chandu Champion. The upcoming sports drama will also mark Kartik’s debut as a producer under his production banner, Dopamine Studios.

Despite the setback, the spokesperson has confirmed that the actor is recovering at home and is expected to return to the sets soon. The development is likely to temporarily affect his shooting schedule, with his return depending on his recovery.

Kartik was recently in the news after winning the Best Actor award at the 72nd National Film Awards for his performance as Paralympic gold medallist Murlikant Petkar in Chandu Champion. With his surgery successfully completed, the actor is now focusing on recovery before resuming his professional commitments.

Also Read: Kartik Aaryan to undergo knee surgery after injury on Kabir Khan’s film set

Alia Bhatt begins Tumbbad 2 shoot, joins Sohum Shah and Nawazuddin Siddiqui

Alia Bhatt has reportedly begun work on Tumbbad 2, adding further anticipation around the upcoming sequel to the 2018 folk horror film. Bhatt, who was officially announced as part of the franchise in July, was recently spotted on the sets alongside the film’s team.

Photos from the sets show Alia in a casual avatar. The actor was seen wearing an oversized striped shirt, with her hair tied back in a high ponytail, as she posed with members of the crew. According to reports, Bhatt visited the sets during the ongoing shooting schedule, which is said to include sequences set around a river and an old fort.

The development comes soon after the makers confirmed Alia’s addition to the cast. Actor-producer Sohum Shah welcomed her to the franchise through social media, announcing, “The world of Tumbbad expands, a new chapter takes shape, e are delighted to welcome @aliaabhatt to the cast of #Tumbbad2.”

Bhatt’s casting marks her first full-fledged project in the horror genre. She is set to share screen space with Sohum Shah and Nawazuddin Siddiqui, who has also been confirmed for an important role in the sequel. However, the filmmakers have maintained secrecy around the characters and major plot details. Siddiqui’s role is expected to have a significant place in the narrative, while Alia’s presence is likely to bring a new element to the folklore-driven story.

Directed by Adesh Prasad and led by Sohum Shah, Tumbbad 2 is expected to further explore the mythology established in the first film. The sequel will reportedly continue to examine themes of greed, fear and human nature while taking the story into a new chapter.

For the initial shoot, the production team has reportedly constructed a massive set spread across around 7-8 acres in Mumbai. The set has been designed to resemble an entire city, highlighting the scale of the upcoming production.

The makers have scheduled Tumbbad 2 for a theatrical release on December 3, 2027. Sohum Shah had earlier teased the sequel with the line, “A sinful past, an ominous future. The hunger rises, the legacy of greed continues... Mark your calendars #Tumbbad2 arrives on 3. 12. 2027.”

Also Read : Alia Bhatt reveals her go-to room dining orders: “I really like hotel sandwiches. They come with French fries…”

Arjun Rampal marries longtime girlfriend Gabriella Demetriades in Goa

Actor Arjun Rampal has officially married his longtime partner Gabriella Demetriades in Goa. The couple, who have been together since 2018, registered their marriage at the Sub-Registrar’s office in Mapusa, North Goa, in the presence of close friends.

According to PTI, Arjun and Gabriella completed the required marriage formalities at the office. The couple had earlier secured special permission from the Assistant Public Prosecutor of the local court to waive the mandatory 15-day waiting period between the first and second signatures required under Goa’s marriage laws.

Sub-Registrar Suraj Vernekar confirmed that the marriage was registered under Goa’s Uniform Civil Code. Arjun and Gabriella reportedly reached the office at around 4 pm and kept their appearance casual for the occasion.

The couple’s relationship began in 2018, following Arjun’s separation from his former wife, Mehr Jesia. They welcomed their first child, son Arik, in 2019, before making their relationship official through marriage. Four years later, they became parents to their second son, Ariv. In 2025, Arjun announced his engagement to Gabriella, six years after the two started dating.

Before their marriage, Arjun had spoken about his decision to stay unmarried despite sharing two children with Gabriella. During an appearance on Ranveer Allahbadia’s YouTube channel, the actor explained his perspective on marriage and the legal bond it creates.

Arjun said, “It’s not me, it’s not her. What is marriage? A piece of paper after all. I think we are already married and there is no doubt in my mind about that. But, sometimes what that piece of paper can also do is change you. Because it’s like you think it’s permanent, it’s a false notion in fact but you are just legally bound.”

He further explained, “It could change your attitude towards each other. I think that’s how we both feel. Whatever has happened between us was very organic. I don’t want to speak much about it because I don’t want to jinx it. I don’t think I need to justify this to anybody. For us, this is beautiful. You should keep experiencing it for as long as you can. In both our minds, we are married to each other. We are both pushing each other in the right direction and at the same time, we are boyfriend-girlfriend.”

Arjun had also clarified that his views did not mean he was against marriage. The couple has now formally registered their relationship, marking a new chapter in their journey together.

Also Read : Arjun Rampal marks silver jubilee of his Bollywood debut; expresses gratitude to Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan and more: “Lots of Pyar Ishq aur mohabbat to all”

Arjun Rampal marries longtime partner Gabriella Demetriades in Goa, couple registers marriage

Actor Arjun Rampal has reportedly married his longtime partner Gabriella Demetriades in Goa. The couple registered their marriage at the Bardez Sub-Registrar’s Office, according to India Today.

Arjun and Gabriella have been together since 2018 and have built a family together. The couple welcomed their first son, Arik, in 2019 and their second son, Arav, in 2023. The actor had earlier confirmed that he and Gabriella were engaged during an appearance on Rhea Chakraborty’s podcast.

The couple has not yet shared pictures from their wedding or marriage registration on social media.

How Arjun Rampal and Gabriella Demetriades met

Arjun and Gabriella first met in 2018 through mutual friends. Gabriella had previously spoken about their first meeting and revealed that they had often crossed paths at social gatherings before getting to know each other.

According to Gabriella, the two eventually “hit it off”, and their friendship gradually developed into a relationship.

Their engagement became public when Arjun appeared on Rhea Chakraborty’s podcast. During the conversation, Gabriella said, “We are not married now, but who knows?” Arjun then confirmed, “We are engaged.”

The marriage marks another chapter in the couple’s relationship after more than eight years together.

Arjun was previously married to former model Mehr Jesia. The two announced their separation in 2018 and their divorce was finalised in 2019. They share two daughters, Mahikaa and Myra.

Also Read: Arjun Rampal marks silver jubilee of his Bollywood debut; expresses gratitude to Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan and more: “Lots of Pyar Ishq aur mohabbat to all”

Ektaa R Kapoor joins hands with Amar Butala for Sajid Khan’s horror-comedy Hero Ki Horrorine

Ektaa R. Kapoor is all set to bring the next big-screen horror-comedy, Hero Ki Horrorine, to audiences on January 7, 2027. A Jai Ho Media Ventures production, the film is presented by Balaji Telefilms Ltd. and produced by Shobha Kapoor, Ektaa R. Kapoor and Amar Butala, with Sajid Khan at the helm.

Known for creating stories across genres, Ektaa R. Kapoor has also built a strong association with the horror-comedy space, bringing together the thrills of the supernatural with humour, romance and entertainment. The stable's Bhooth Bangla earlier this year was a hit. With Hero Ki Horrorine, the makers return to the genre with a fresh theatrical entertainer that aims to combine horror and comedy in equal measure.

Amar Butala, who has previously produced several box office hits including Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Kesari and the critically acclaimed Mission Majnu, joins hands with Ekta R Kapoor for this forthcoming entertainer.

Directed by Sajid Khan, Hero Ki Horrorine brings together an ensemble cast featuring Yashvrdhn Ahuja, Nitanshi Goel, Sunita Ahuja, Jamie Lever, Chunky Panday, Brijendra Kala and Simrat Kaur Randhawa. The film brings a comic spin to the supernatural, weaving together horror, romance and humour!

For Yashvrdhn Ahuja, the film also marks his debut as a leading actor in Hindi cinema alongside Nitanshi Goel who joins him as the leading lady in this feature. He joins an ensemble that brings together established performers and young talent, adding to the film's mix of comedy and horror.

Produced by Shobha Kapoor, Ektaa R. Kapoor and Amar Butala, Hero Ki Horrorine is a Jai Ho Media Ventures production, presented by Balaji Telefilms Ltd and directed by Sajid Khan.

Hero Ki Horrorine releases in cinemas on January 7, 2027.

Also Read: Ektaa Kapoor takes popular Naagin franchise from TV to Cinema

SCOOP: Alia Bhatt to make an extended appearance in Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone's Brahmastra 2

Earlier in the week, it was revealed that Ranbir Kapoor is all set to start shooting for the Ayan Mukerji-led Brahmastra 2 from April 2027. The news has created a stir, all the more because the reports also indicated that the makers are in talks with Deepika Padukone to play the part of Amrita in the epic, marking her reunion with Ranbir Kapoor.

And now, Bollywood Hungama has learnt that while conversations with Deepika Padukone are still underway, given her packed personal and professional commitments, the makers have locked Alia Bhatt for the sequel. “Alia will have an extended appearance in Brahmastra 2 and is expected to shoot for around 25 days. The film itself is planned as an approximately 125-day shoot. Brahmastra 2 will largely revolve around the characters of Dev and Amrita, which are expected to be played by Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone, respectively,” a source told Bollywood Hungama.

The source also adds that Ranbir Kapoor will play a double role in Brahmastra 2 as Shiva and Dev. "While Alia Bhatt is paired opposite Shiva, Deepika will be seen as Dev's wife. Alia will have a parallel lead along with Deepika Padukone in Brahmastra 3," the source tells us further.

Ayan is working day and night to make Brahmastra 2 a reality and has cracked a solid script for the sequel. He is committed to taking the film on floors in April 2027.

Also Read: Sandeep Reddy Vanga cheers for Ranbir Kapoor’s Ramayana; says, “Dharma will always triumph over Adharma’

Bhagyashri Borse NOT starring opposite Aditya Roy Kapur in Milap Zaveri film; T-Series confirms

The casting speculation surrounding T-Series’ upcoming film starring Aditya Roy Kapur and directed by Milap Zaveri has taken a new turn. The production house has clarified that actress Bhagyashri Borse is not associated with the yet-to-be-titled project, putting an end to reports that had recently claimed she was finalised as the female lead opposite Aditya Roy Kapur.

Borse’s name had surfaced in reports surrounding the project, leading to speculation about her possible collaboration with Aditya Roy Kapur. However, T-Series has now issued a clarification, stating that the reports are inaccurate and that the identity of the film’s leading lady has not yet been officially revealed.

A T-Series spokesperson said, “The reports of Bhagyashri Borse being a part of T-Series and Milap Zaveri’s upcoming project with Aditya Roy Kapur are untrue. The production house will officially announce the actress soon.”

With the clarification, Borse’s reported association with the project has been ruled out. The production house has indicated that it will make a formal announcement regarding the female lead at a later stage.

The yet-to-be-titled film has been generating interest due to the combination of Aditya Roy Kapur, filmmaker Milap Zaveri and T-Series. While Aditya has been confirmed to headline the project, the makers have so far kept details surrounding the story, characterisation and other members of the cast under wraps.

Milap Zaveri, known for films including Satyameva Jayate and Marjaavaan, is set to direct the upcoming project. The collaboration marks another association between the filmmaker and the production banner, with the makers currently maintaining secrecy around the film’s casting and narrative.

The latest clarification also comes at a time when casting speculation has become an integral part of the pre-release buzz surrounding several Hindi film projects. In this case, T-Series has specifically stated that no actress should be considered confirmed until the production house makes an official announcement.

For now, Aditya Roy Kapur remains the confirmed lead of the project, with Milap Zaveri directing. The identity of the female lead continues to remain under wraps.

T-Series is expected to announce the actress officially in the coming days. Until then, the production house’s clarification effectively puts to rest the reports linking Bhagyashri Borse to the film and leaves audiences waiting for the official casting reveal.

Also Read: Bhagyashri Borse to play bigger role in Kingdom 2, confirms producer Naga Vamsi

Sonu Nigam reacts to impersonator case settlement; says, “Saste mein chhoot gaya bahut”

Sonu Nigam has opened up about his legal battle with Bihar-based criminal lawyer Sonu Nigam Singh, whose social media account was allegedly mistaken for that of the singer. The dispute, which involved alleged misuse of the singer’s identity and personality rights, has now been settled following an amicable agreement between the two parties.

The Bombay High Court recently disposed of the commercial intellectual property suit after the singer and the lawyer reached a settlement. However, Sonu Nigam has said that he is not completely satisfied with the outcome and believes that cases involving digital impersonation and identity rights require stricter legal action.

Speaking about the issue, the singer said, “I quit X in 2017 but this person kept impersonating me. If I met President Droupadi Murmu, he would post a photo as if I am posting it. It is cruel to put someone’s name, reputation and life at risk.”

Nigam further claimed that the alleged impersonation had consequences for him and his family. “My family and I started receiving threats for posts this guy had made. He would post something and people would hurl abuses at me,” he said.

The singer said he was relieved that the court had issued a strict warning to the lawyer, but felt that the consequences should have been more severe. “Such people should be put in prison. He may have not murdered me physically but he harmed me and my reputation. Saste mein chhoot gaya bahut. Even the PM (@narendramodi) follows him thinking that is my account,” Nigam said.

Sonu Nigam had filed the suit before the Bombay High Court in July last year, alleging violations of his personality rights and digital impersonation. The account in question was allegedly used to share politically charged and communally sensitive posts. Since Nigam had left X in 2017, the account was allegedly mistaken by some users for the singer’s official account.

While the legal dispute has now been resolved, Nigam’s comments highlight his concerns over the impact of social media impersonation on a public figure’s reputation and personal life.

Also Read : Sonu Nigam reveals he uses auto-tune in certain songs; says, “It can’t replace singers”

Kala Hiran producer Amit Jani challenges Delhi HC order on Salman Khan’s personality rights in Supreme Court

Film producer Amit Jani has approached the Supreme Court challenging the Delhi High Court’s interim order directing the makers of Kala Hiran: The Battle for Legacy to remove its teaser and other promotional material. The case concerns allegations that the film’s promotions violated actor Salman Khan’s personality rights.

Jani, who is producing the film under Jani FireFox Films, has challenged the High Court’s July 27 order. The controversy began after the teaser of Kala Hiran was released on July 17 and drew attention for its apparent references to Salman’s ongoing blackbuck poaching case.

According to ANI, Jani’s appeal argues that the High Court restrained the teaser without identifying the specific actionable use through which Salman’s persona was allegedly appropriated or commercially exploited.

“The present proceedings raise a question of far-reaching constitutional significance, for acceptance of the actor's legally untenable proposition would effectively weaponise personality rights as a tool of private censorship, permitting every public personality to seek gag orders against legitimate artistic, journalistic or historical expression concerning events associated with them,” the appeal stated.

The plea further argued, “Permitting the actor to suppress the filmmaker's creative expression under the guise of personality rights would produce an unprecedented chilling effect upon independent filmmaking, journalism and artistic dramatisation of matters inherently falling within the public domain and public interest.” Why did Salman Khan object to the film’s teaser? Salman had approached the Delhi High Court alleging that the film’s promotional material commercially exploited his personality without his consent. His plea claimed that the two-minute teaser featured a fictional character named Ayan Khan who was portrayed in a manner that clearly alluded to him.

The actor also alleged that the teaser contained references to his films Dabangg and Sikandar, alongside elements related to his pending blackbuck poaching case.

The teaser reportedly depicts a courtroom trial involving a superstar accused of killing a blackbuck. It also includes dramatised sequences involving witness examination, forensic findings and alleged attempts to threaten or influence witnesses.

In its interim order, the Delhi High Court directed the makers to take down the teaser and related promotional material, observing that the content prima facie violated Salman’s personality rights and could cause irreparable harm to his reputation.

On the work front, Salman was last seen in Sikandar. He also features in the Saudi Arabian film 7 Dogs, which is scheduled to release in India on August 21. The actor is currently shooting for a film directed by Vamshi Paidipally and produced by Dil Raju.

Salman also has Apoorva Lakhia’s Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace in his lineup. He is also attached to the project as a producer.

Also Read: Delhi High Court orders removal of Kala Hiran teaser linked to Salman Khan; says reputation must be protected

Esha Deol turns Sunny Deol’s “Dhaai Kilo Ka Haath” into a Raksha Bandhan gag in Instamart campaign, watch

Esha Deol is revisiting a memorable piece of Bollywood nostalgia this Raksha Bandhan with Instamart’s latest festive campaign, titled ‘Dhaai Kilo Ki Rakhi’. The campaign takes inspiration from the iconic “dhaai kilo ka haath” dialogue and gives it a playful sibling-centric twist.

The campaign film begins with Esha referencing the famous dialogue before introducing a wild-haired professor who attempts to explain why her brother’s hand appears to carry so much weight. The humorous sequence turns the idea into a mock scientific experiment called “Thermo-Dhaai-Namics”.

The professor uses X-rays, a blackboard equation and a pulley experiment to demonstrate the unusual weight of the giant hand. The experiment pits it against several forces and objects, including the Earth, Shukra, Shani and even a tank of water. Each attempt ends with the hand tipping the scale.

The equation finally finds its solution when a rakhi matching the hand’s supposed weight arrives. Dubbed the “dhaai kilo ki rakhi”, it is delivered by an Instamart executive, bringing the professor’s elaborate experiment to an end.

The campaign also includes a festive return-gift offer. Customers who purchase an eligible rakhi through Instamart can receive a complimentary 10-gram silver voucher from Kalyan Jewellers. The offer is available across multiple cities, subject to availability and applicable terms and conditions.

 

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Speaking about the campaign, Mayur Hola, Head of Brand, Swiggy, said, “Over the last few years, we’ve enjoyed using pop culture to put a playful spin on Raksha Bandhan, from ‘Rakhi with Rakhi’ to ‘Shera Bhai’, and now ‘Dhaai Kilo Ki Rakhi’. Each year, we look for a cultural moment that people instantly recognise and reimagine it through the lens of the sibling relationship. This year, we have Esha Deol bringing one of Bollywood’s most legendary dialogues to life with an Instamart twist. And the silver voucher adds an extra sparkle to the tradition of the bhai’s return gift.”

Ramesh Kalyanaraman, Executive Director, Kalyan Jewellers, said, “Raksha Bandhan celebrates a bond built over years of shared memories, laughter, mischief and affection. The tradition has always been as much about giving as it is about tying the rakhi, which is why, for everyone buying rakhis on Instamart, we wanted to offer a meaningful return gift: a 10-gram silver voucher redeemable at select Kalyan Jewellers stores. Our association with Instamart combines the convenience of quick commerce with the enduring value of silver, adding a little more meaning to a much-loved festive tradition.”

The campaign combines a familiar Bollywood reference with the contemporary way of shopping for festivals. Through Instamart, customers can order rakhis, sweets, return gifts and puja essentials together, while the Kalyan Jewellers offer adds another element to the Raksha Bandhan celebration.

Also Read: Esha Deol gets candid about missing love after divorce; says, “I am currently missing, I love to be romantic”

Kangana Ranaut backs Isha Koppikar after the latter calls herself an ‘andhbhakt’: “I love my country I love my people”

Isha Koppikar recently addressed the label of ‘andhbhakt’ while speaking about her love for India and her belief in contributing towards the country’s progress. The actress made it clear that her devotion is not towards any political party but towards her nation. Her remarks have now received support from actress turned politician Kangana Ranaut, who responded to Isha’s video on social media.

Isha shared the video on her Instagram handle on Tuesday, explaining why she does not shy away from calling herself a ‘bhakt’ or an ‘andhbhakt’ when it comes to her country. Kangana reacted to the post and highlighted instances from her own life where she says she stood up against injustice and violence.

“Wow well explained for me as- in high school protested against a teacher who used to hit children in head with stick during assembly, protested against 26/11 violence. Protested against Nirbhaya brutality. Never blamed parents for any limitation that may have come my way. Instead uplifted whole family to the same standard of life that I earned for myself," Kangana wrote in response to Isha’s video. She further added, “Identifies being a bhakt of almost anyone who I meet, I love my country I love my people. I simply love my life," she added.

In her original video, Isha explained that her use of the term ‘andhbhakt’ is specifically linked to her love for the country rather than allegiance to a political party. She said, “Yes, I am an andhbhakt. If it is bhakti (devotion) to love your country and want to see it progress, then yes, I am proud to be a bhakti andhbhakt. But my blind devotion is not towards any political party; it’s towards my country. Nation first. I can question the government and disagree with its policies. And still love my country wholeheartedly.”

Isha also spoke about the importance of contributing to the nation instead of only questioning what one receives from it. “This country is my home, where I have earned and continue to earn a livelihood and where I continue to get opportunities. So, I am not ashamed to be proud of my country. Wherever you may live, learn to love that place, respect that place, and contribute to it. Be proud of the home you choose. Because patriotism is not just saying, I love my country. It is doing something that improves your country.”

She concluded by reiterating her belief in India and its future, saying, “Instead of asking what the country has given us all the time, why not start thinking about what we can contribute to the country? Because Bharat is changing. It’s time to change our thoughts to help in making a new Bharat. So, call me a bhakt, call me an andhbhakt, call me a nationalist. I am Indian, I love my India, I believe in my India. Not blindly, but proudly, passionately, and unapologetically.”

Kangana’s response comes as a public endorsement of Isha’s views, with the actress turned politician drawing parallels with moments when she says she chose to speak up against injustice and violence.

Also Read: Isha Koppikar REACTS to being called “andhbhakt”: “My devotion is not for any political party, but for my country”

Kartik Aaryan to undergo knee surgery after injury on Kabir Khan’s film set

Kartik Aaryan has suffered a serious knee injury while shooting an intense action sequence for his upcoming untitled film with filmmaker Kabir Khan. The actor reportedly sustained the injury during the final phase of the shoot, which was scheduled to wrap after two more days of filming.

According to India Today, Kartik had been undergoing rigorous training with action coaches ahead of the demanding sequences. During one of the action scenes, he injured his knee and was subsequently rushed to a hospital in the town for medical attention.

A source close to the production told India Today, “Kartik has now been admitted to Fortis Raheja Hospital and is under medical care. The doctors will perform his knee surgery in a day, after which he will have to rest for a few days. He should then be able to resume his work commitments.”

Following the surgery, Kartik is expected to take a short break to recover. He will reportedly resume work on Anurag Basu’s untitled project once he is fit to return to the sets.

The injury comes at a busy phase in Kartik’s professional career. The actor recently received the National Film Award for Best Actor for his performance in Chandu Champion. He has also ventured into film production with Dopamine Studios and is collaborating with Kabir Khan on the upcoming project. The film marks Kartik’s second association with Khan after Chandu Champion.

Apart from the Kabir Khan directorial, Kartik has several projects lined up. He will next be seen in Naagzilla, a fantasy-comedy-adventure film directed by Mrighdeep Singh Lamba. The actor is also part of Captain India, which remains among his upcoming projects.

For now, Kartik is expected to prioritise his recovery following the knee injury and surgery before returning to his packed work schedule.

Also Read : Kartik Aaryan launches Dopamine Studios, joins Kabir Khan’s sports drama as producer

SCOOP: Rajinikanth creates HISTORY! Jailer 2 bags record Rs. 160 cr. OTT deal; biggest ever for a Tamil film

Rajinikanth is undoubtedly the biggest superstar of Indian Cinema, who commands longevity like no one else has. With 50 years of reign as a leading man, he is all set for the release of his next, Jailer 2 directed by Nelson Dilipkumar. The film is a sequel to the 2023 cult Jailer, and is among the most awaited films of the year.

Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learnt that Jailer 2 has cracked the biggest non-theatrical deal of 2026, surpassing King. According to reliable sources, Rajinikanth starrer has fetched a humongous sum of Rs. 160 crore from a streaming partner. "It's the biggest non-theatrical deal of the year, as well as the biggest of all time for a Tamil Film, surpassing Leo. Rajinikanth is flexing his superstardom with the sequel to his most loved film of the last 15 years," a source told Bollywood Hungama.

The source also informs that the film is confirmed for a theatrical release in October, and the makers are gearing up to kick-start their theatrical campaign. It marks the return of Rajinikanth to play the character of Tiger Muthuvel.

More details on the structure of this historic deal is awaited, but the OTT platforms are clearly betting big on the Superstar Rajinikanth saga.

Also Read: Sun Pictures unveils electrifying announcement video for Rajinikanth starrer Jailer 2, set to release on October 15