Alia Bhatt joins Rami Malek, Sachin Tendulkar and Simone Ashley for a star-studded Earthshot Prize 2026 night in Mumbai

Mumbai is gearing up for a glittering global night, and Alia Bhatt will be right at the heart of it. The actor, producer and entrepreneur will be among the leading names from the worlds of film, music, sport and entertainment at The Earthshot Prize 2026 Awards Night, where she will present one of the five Earthshot Prize awards.

The ceremony will bring together 5,000 guests to celebrate people and organisations working on solutions to some of the world's most pressing environmental challenges. Alia will share the stage with Oscar-winning actor Rami Malek, cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar and British actress and musician Simone Ashley, among other presenters and special guests. The evening will be hosted by Karan Johar, with more names expected to join the celebrations.

For Alia, the night is a chance to applaud the people behind the ideas and solutions driving environmental action around the world. Speaking about the occasion, she said: "The Earthshot Prize is really about hope… but hope that comes with ideas, action and people who are finding new ways forward. That's what makes it so inspiring to be a part of. There are people across the world doing incredible work to protect and repair our planet, often in ways we may never have imagined. And to have Mumbai bring all these people together feels very special. I'm proud that India gets to be part of this moment, and I'm really looking forward to celebrating the people behind these solutions and the work they're doing for all of us."

The 2026 Awards Night will also mark the first time the event is streamed globally on Prime Video, with audiences in more than 240 countries and territories able to watch the celebration in more than 40 languages.

On the work front, Alia is preparing for the release of the highly anticipated Love & War, in which she stars alongside real-life husband Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal. Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the film will hit cinemas in January 2027. The actress also has Tumbbad 2 in the pipeline, where she will play a key role.

Speaking about The Earthshot Prize, founded by Prince William, it is the world's most prestigious environmental award, created to identify, back and celebrate groundbreaking environmental leadership. Built around five challenges, it aims to discover 50 winners over 10 years with the power to repair the planet.

Also Read: Daughter’s Day 2026: Alia Bhatt quips daughter Raha “bosses everybody around,” as she talks about women’s empowerment at the Mijwan fundraiser

SCOOP: Love & War theatrical rights sold for Rs. 300 crores; Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, & Vicky Kaushal starrer sets records

Sanjay Leela Bhansali directed Love And War, starring Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal is among the most awaited films of 2027. Scheduled to release on January 21, 2027, the film marks the reunion of Ranbir Kapoor with Sanjay Leela Bhansali after 20 years. There was a strong bidding war in the film fraternity to bag the distribution rights of Love And War, with players like Dharma Productions, Jio Studios, Anil Thadani, and Pen Marudhar in the race.

Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learnt that the theatrical rights of Love And War have been sold for a humongous sum of Rs. 300 crores. "It's a global deal, and Pen Marudhar is set to bring forward the biggest release of 2027 in January. There was a lot of bidding happening behind the scenes, and Sanjay Leela Bhansali has gotten the best value from Pen Marudhar," a source told Bollywood Hungama.

The source further informs that Pen Marudhar as well as the stakeholders of Love And War are confident of recovering the theatrical investment and make big profits from the film. "Ranbir Kapoor is among the biggest superstars of Indian Cinema, and with able support from Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal - Love And War is certainly the biggest ensemble ever pulled off by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. It deserves the Rs. 300 crore theatrical number," the source tells us further.

Love And War posters were out last week, and have taken the digital world by storm. SLB is now planning to launch a teaser next, but that shall happen around Diwali with Ramayana.

Also Read: Love & War: Sanjay Leela Bhansali and others celebrate the birthday of Ranbir Kapoor with grand dinner

BREAKING: Shoot of Vicky Kaushal's Mahavatar to commence in January 2027; Stree 3 goes on floors in 2027-end; horror comedy expected to release on Independence Day or Christmas 2028

Rajkummar Rao and producer Dinesh Vijan attended the Day 2 of FICCI Frames 2026 to promote their upcoming film, Prahaar. Towards the end, they spoke about Stree and the horror comedy universe, and shared some exciting news.

Rajkummar Rao said, "Stree (2018) started as an independent small budget film. But we all had great faith in the story and in Amar Kaushik. He's hilarious. He's like us. So, we all were like laundas on the set! We would crack jokes and try to have fun with each other while shooting the scenes. That camaraderie and energy is very much visible on screen."

He continued, "Stree was Amar's first theatrical release. I haven't shared this with anyone. When it started collecting very well and earned Rs. 70-75 crores, Amar was very nervous. He asked, 'Film kuch zyada nahin kama rahi hai?'! I said, 'Arre, acchhi baat hai na?'. He replied, 'Arre nahin. Pehli film itna business kar rahi hai?'."

Stree 2 (2024), meanwhile, was a Rs. 500 crore plus grosser. When the host asked how Amar Kaushik reacted to the sequel's blockbuster business, Rajkummar Rao replied, "At that time, he was prepared. Then, he was like 'Aur kamaye'! In between, he delivered Bala (2019) and Bhediya (2022). As a result, he became a producer's friend!"

Dinesh Vijan then revealed, "Amar Kaushik is the most integral part of Stree and the entire horror comedy franchise. He directs our most ambitious film in January end, Mahavatar, which is Bhagwan Parshuram's story. He'll finish that in June and end of next year, we go on floors with Stree 3. It'll arrive in cinemas in 2028."

He also told viewers to expect the unexpected with Stree 3, "Anything you have thought, remove that from your mind. If I say anything more, you'll be very upset with me because he has just finished writing it. And he feels I give out too many spoilers! But everything you have loved about it, you'll get. However, where it starts and where it ends will be a complete revelation. So, it might be a nice Independence Day or Christmas day release in 2028!"

 

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Mahavatar stars Vicky Kaushal in the lead. Besides Rajkummar Rao, Stree 3 will star Shraddha Kapoor, Pankaj Tripathi, Aparshakti Khurana and Abhishek Banerjee. Akshay Kumar is also expected to play a key role.

Also Read: Vimal Elaichi row: FDA commissioner says Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn, and Tiger Shroff have responded to notice; two hearings held

CONFIRMED! Lock Upp returns for season 2, Netflix announces new chapter

The jail doors are set to open once again, allowing new inmates to assemble. Following a landmark season that became a cultural phenomenon and a constant source of conversation both on and off screen, Netflix announces the return of Lock Upp: Sach Ya Sazaa for a second season. Produced by Ekta Kapoor, Shobha Kapoor and Manisha Sharma, and showrun by Malaya Pradhan, the new season promises to blur the lines between spectacle and vulnerability.

Centered on its distinctly Indian format, Lock Upp: Sach Ya Sazaa resonated with audiences worldwide, with its most shareable moments driving 5 billion+ views across social and word of mouth. The series demonstrated how a homegrown reality format can become a shared cultural experience: one that audiences don't simply watch, but participate in and carry with them.

Inside the jail in Season 1, contestants were pushed to own their truth, confronting the perceptions and narratives that had long surrounded them. Confessions became talking points, confrontations became debates, unexpected relationships became turning points, and raw moments became what audiences remembered most. What viewers witnessed was more than captivity and competition; it was celebrities taking ownership of their personal stories.

The upcoming season builds on that world, bringing audiences back inside the jail for another chapter where personalities collide, dynamics shift, and every secret has the potential to change the game.

Monika Shergill, VP- Content, Netflix India said: "Lock Upp: Sach Yaa Sazaa became appointment viewing overnight. Viewers invested, debated, and kept coming back. It captured the zeitgeist - not just as entertainment, but also as a space where celebrities talked about topics they rarely do, owned their choices and confronted past trauma. Ekta’s bold homegrown idea and the scaled adaptation on Netflix led to entertainment maxxing. Season 2 will be about recreating the same Netflix effect with many new surprises for our audiences."

Ekta Kapoor, Joint Managing Director, Balaji Telefilms & Creator of Lock Upp said: “Lock Upp: Sach Ya Sazaa on Netflix went far beyond what we imagined. The conversations, the inmates, and their most memorable moments continued to live with audiences even after the finale. That’s what makes the return of Lock Upp so exciting. The next season will take audiences back into a world they know, but with an entirely new set of stories, personalities, and surprises. And Farah and Riteish will continue to helm Lock Upp as the formidable jailer duo, bringing their own energy, unpredictability, and dynamic to the next chapter.”

As audiences wait to discover who will enter the jail this time, one thing is certain: the game, the inmates, and the tasks may change, but the conversations are about to begin all over again!

Also Read: Did Harshad Chopda accidentally reveal Lock Upp Season 2 winner? His comment on Shreya Kalra has fans convinced

Sparsh Shrivastava reveals how Govinda, Salman Khan and Madhuri Dixit inspired Bhugol in Dupahiya Season 2

Sparsh Shrivastava’s character Bhugol in Dupahiya Season 2 carries more than just the aspirations of a small-town dreamer. As the character steps into a new phase of his life and begins navigating newfound fame, Bollywood and its iconic stars become an important part of how he expresses himself. Sparsh has now revealed how actors including Govinda, Salman Khan and Madhuri Dixit influenced Bhugol’s personality in the upcoming season.

According to Sparsh, several familiar Bollywood references were consciously incorporated into Bhugol’s character, reflecting his fascination with films and stars. The actor particularly pointed to Govinda as an inspiration for a mandir sequence featured in the trailer of the second season.

Sharing the inspiration behind that scene, Sparsh said, “The inspiration for that was Govinda sir. There’s this moment in Raja Babu, I think, where he goes to his mother and says, ‘Itna pyaar diya tune mujhe, maa,’ so I was just trying to channel that feeling. There’s a little bit of Govinda in Bhugol, there’s a lot of Deewaar, and he’s also wearing Salman Khan’s jacket from Maine Pyar Kiya. So, in a way, everybody’s embodiment is in Bhugol. He’s everything. And then there’s Madhuri ma’am as well, of course, especially when it comes to the launda naach in his character. I loved bringing all these little references together because that’s how I see Bhugol. He’s this small-town guy who has absorbed so much from the films and stars he loves ”

The Bollywood connection also brought back a personal memory for Sparsh while filming the launda naach sequence. The actor recalled participating in a dance reality show in 2010, where veteran choreographer Saroj Khan was a judge. He remembered receiving ₹100 notes from her after good performances.

Reflecting on the experience, Sparsh said, “The choreographer was Kruti, and I remember this one specific moment from that launda naach. When I did a dance reality show back in 2010, Saroj Khan ma’am was the judge, and after every good dance, she would give you a ₹100 note. This time, when I did that shoot, Kruti came to me and gave me a ₹500 note, and I was so emotional.”

Directed by Sonam Nair, Dupahiya Season 2 is created and produced by Salona Bains Joshi and Shubh Shivdasani under Bombay Film Cartel LLP. The series is created and written by Avinash Dwivedi and Chirag Garg.

The second season continues the story established in the first instalment and brings back Gajraj Rao, Renuka Shahane, Sparsh Shrivastava, Bhuvan Arora, Shivani Raghuvanshi and Yashpal Sharma. Dinesh Lal Yadav (Nirahua) joins the ensemble for the new season.

Dupahiya Season 2 will premiere exclusively on Prime Video on October 1.

Also Read: Dupahiya Season 2 Trailer: Gajraj Rao, Renuka Shahane, Sparsh Shrivastava return as Dhadakpur faces new chaos

EXCLUSIVE: Karan Tacker to return as Gaurav Tiwari? Bhay Season 2 likely to go on floors in January 2027

Karan Tacker could be set to return to the world of the paranormal as Gaurav Tiwari. Bollywood Hungama has learnt that Almighty Motion Picture is gearing up for the second season of its supernatural thriller Bhay – A Gaurav Tiwari Mystery, with the new season expected to go on floors by mid-January 2027.

According to sources close to the development, the makers are currently working towards taking the franchise forward, with the second season expected to mount on a larger canvas. If the schedule stays on track, Bhay – A Gaurav Tiwari Mystery Season 2 could be ready for a late-2027 release. The first season, which premiered in 2025, was produced by Prabhleen Sandhu under Almighty Motion Picture and directed by Robbie Grewal. Written by Arshad Sayed, the series featured Karan Tacker as paranormal investigator Gaurav Tiwari, with the character's investigations and mysterious encounters forming the core of the narrative.

Unlike conventional horror outings that rely primarily on jump scares and supernatural spectacle, Bhay attempted to build its world around paranormal investigations, unexplained incidents and the psychological fear surrounding the unknown. At the centre of that world was Tiwari, a protagonist who actively pursued cases that others would rather stay away from.

Sources indicate that Season 2 is being planned to delve deeper into that universe, with the makers exploring new unexplained cases and paranormal investigations. Whether the new season will pick up directly from where the first chapter ended or introduce an entirely new case remains tightly under wraps.

The casting, too, is being kept under wraps for now. However, sources indicate that the makers intend to retain Karan Tacker as Gaurav Tiwari, allowing the actor to continue anchoring the franchise. An official announcement is awaited.

Interestingly, Bhay would also add to an increasingly notable pattern in Karan Tacker's OTT career. Several of the actor's streaming outings have returned for subsequent seasons, underlining the recall he has built with audiences on the digital platform. From stepping into varied characters to headlining returning franchises, Tacker has gradually established himself as an actor with a strong presence in the OTT space, where longevity often depends on a show's ability to bring audiences back for another season.

That trajectory makes a potential return to Bhay particularly significant, as the franchise itself appears to be moving into its next phase with Tacker once again at the headlining.

For now, the makers are keeping the door firmly shut on Season 2. But if the current plans stay on course, the world of Gaurav Tiwari could be back on screen sooner than expected with cameras potentially rolling from January 2027.

Also Read: Karan Tacker opens up on a ‘Bhay’ moment that forced him to confront mortality: “This scene changed me forever”

Shakira’s Madrid concert to stream globally on Amazon Music on October 3; celebration to spotlight women In Latin music

Amazon Music and Shakira have announced a global celebration of women shaping Latin music and culture, with the centrepiece being the first full-concert global livestream of Shakira’s Madrid performance. The concert, part of the final stop of her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour and her ES Latina European Residency, will stream worldwide on October 3.

For viewers in India, the livestream will begin at 12:15 AM IST on October 4. Fans can watch the performance on the Amazon Music India app, Prime Video, the Amazon Music app on Fire TV and the Amazon Music channel on Twitch. The livestream will be available without a subscription.

The Madrid concert is part of The Women Shaping Latin Music, Amazon Music’s 2026 celebration under its Music Connects Us programme. The initiative brings together tributes to women who have influenced Latin music and culture, while also highlighting women artists, entrepreneurs and those building careers in technology. Shakira brings Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran to Madrid Shakira’s Madrid performance comes as she reaches the final chapter of her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour. The tour has drawn inspiration from a deeply personal period in the singer’s life and has evolved into a wider message of resilience and reinvention.

Reflecting on the tour and the upcoming livestream, Shakira said, “The Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour has become more than I could ever have imagined, and I am so proud of it. I’m so excited to take it even further by sharing this special evening with fans around the world, together with Amazon Music.”

 

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According to Amazon Music’s internal worldwide consumption data for January 1 to September 19, 2026, “Dai Dai” is the platform’s most-streamed song globally so far this year, while Shakira is the most-listened-to Latina artist worldwide during the same period. New Shakira experiences and releases The global celebration extends beyond the Madrid livestream. Amazon Music is releasing a new remix of Shakira’s “Dai Dai Spanish Remix (Amazon Music Original),” produced by RVSSIAN.

Fans will also be able to purchase an Amazon Exclusive orange and yellow marble vinyl edition of Shakira’s Laundry Service, marking the album’s 25th anniversary. The celebration will also include merchandise, Amazon storefronts and immersive fan experiences.

Shakira has personally curated El Mixtape, featuring music by women artists who have influenced her. Fans can also revisit her career through [Re]Discover Shakira, while On Tour highlights music from the latest chapter of her global tour.

In Madrid, the ES Latina residency will feature El Museo Shakira by Amazon Music, an interactive experience guided by Alexa+, allowing fans to explore milestones from Shakira’s career across music, fashion, culture and social impact.

The residency will also feature an all-women Amazon Music stage celebrating women shaping Latin music today. Amazon Music launches initiatives for women The celebration also includes initiatives aimed at creating opportunities beyond music.

The Las Mujeres Facturan Con Amazon Music storefront will highlight products from women-owned businesses, with a particular focus on Latina-owned brands. The destination will also feature merchandise and physical music from female Latin artists, along with stories about the women behind the businesses.

Meanwhile, Las Mujeres Ayudan Con Amazon Music will bring together Amazon Music, Amazon Web Services, Shakira’s Fundación Pies Descalzos and Laboratoria for AWS Entrena Latinas. The programme aims to provide free cloud computing and artificial intelligence training in Spanish to women across Latin America.

The initiative aims to reach one million women by 2028. It will initially launch in Colombia, where students and mothers connected to Fundación Pies Descalzos will have access to foundational courses and opportunities to pursue AWS AI certifications.

Rocío Guerrero, Director of Music, Latin-Iberia, Amazon Music, said, “Shakira has spent more than three decades showing the world what is possible when a Latin woman refuses to accept boundaries around her music, her ambition or her influence.”

She added, “This celebration honors everything she has built while looking forward, using the reach and breadth of Amazon to connect music, culture and opportunity in a way that goes far beyond a single moment.”

Through the combination of the Madrid concert, new music, fan experiences and education and commerce initiatives, Amazon Music’s 2026 celebration aims to spotlight the role of women across Latin music and culture while creating opportunities beyond the entertainment space.

Also Read: Justin Bieber joins Madonna, Shakira and BTS for FIFA World Cup 2026 Final half-time show

Anupam Kher honoured in Toronto with Certificate of Recognition: “What a wonderful feeling”

Veteran actor Anupam Kher has received a Certificate of Recognition in Toronto for his contribution to cinema, storytelling, education and mentorship. The actor shared the news on social media on September 29, expressing his gratitude for the honour and reflecting on how his work has reached audiences beyond India.

Kher shared a picture from the ceremony and revealed that he received the certificate from Ruby Sahota, Member of Parliament for Brampton North, Caledon. Sharing his reaction, the actor wrote, “CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION!❤️🇨🇦What a wonderful feeling to receive this Certificate of Recognition in Toronto from the Hon. Ruby Sahota, Member of Parliament for Brampton North—Caledon. I am touched by her words about my work in cinema, storytelling, education and mentorship.🙏😳😍”

He further spoke about what the recognition means to him as an actor who has spent decades working across films, television and theatre. Kher wrote, “An actor begins by hoping to connect with the person sitting in front of the stage or screen. To learn that the work has travelled across borders and touched people here in Canada means a great deal to me.”

The actor also thanked Sahota and the residents of Brampton North, Caledon, while acknowledging the people who have been part of his journey. He added, “Thank you, Ruby Sahota ji, and the residents of Brampton North, Caledon, for this generous honour. I accept it with gratitude and share it with everyone who has been part of my journey. Lots of love. Jai Ho!”

 

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Anupam Kher’s North American theatre tour The Toronto honour comes at a significant point in Kher’s ongoing North American theatre tour. The actor is currently travelling across the US and Canada with the Hindi musical play Jaane Pehchaane Anjaane, in which he stars opposite Swaroop Sampat.

The play recently marked its 25th show in Toronto on September 27. Kher described the milestone as an important moment for the production and said that Toronto had continued to give him “amazing love.” The play, written and directed by Gajendra Iyer, has been touring several North American cities.

On the film front, Kher has several projects lined up. He will next be seen in Sooraj Barjatya’s Yeh Prem Mol Liya, which stars Ayushmann Khurrana and Sharvari. The film is scheduled to release theatrically on November 27, 2026.

He is also part of Fauzi, starring Prabhas and directed by Hanu Raghavapudi. The film is currently listed for release on December 3, 2026.

Kher is set to reprise his popular character Kamal Khosla in Khosla Ka Ghosla 2. The sequel had been announced for release in August 2026, but its release was subsequently postponed and a new date has not been locked yet.

The actor has also announced his 555th film, although details about the project and its title have not yet been revealed.

Also Read: Anupam Kher advises Govinda amid rumoured affair: “Don’t allow your personal life or habits to overshadow your entire life”

Sanjay Gupta calls out smoking imagery in Animal, Dhurandhar and Love & War posters; asks why anti-smoking reels are shown in theatres

Filmmaker Sanjay Gupta has questioned the continued use of smoking imagery in Bollywood film promotions, pointing to what he sees as a contrast between smoking visuals in posters and the anti-smoking messages audiences are shown in cinemas. On Sunday, September 27, Gupta shared a collage on X featuring Ranbir Kapoor in Animal, Ranveer Singh in Dhurandhar and Vicky Kaushal in Love & War. The three posters showed the actors with cigarettes as part of their respective character looks.

Sharing the images, Gupta questioned the purpose of the anti-smoking messages that audiences encounter while watching films in theatres. He wrote, "What is the point of those unpleasant anti-smoking reels we have to endure before and during films when these are the posters of the films (sic)?"

The filmmaker's post quickly prompted a discussion on X, with users debating whether smoking continues to be presented as a part of a leading man's screen image despite the presence of tobacco-related health warnings.

What is the point of those unpleasant anti smoking reels we have to endure before and during films when these are the posters of the films? pic.twitter.com/oQSkEWkTZl — Sanjay Gupta (@_SanjayGupta) September 27, 2026

Sanjay Gupta responds to criticism over Kaante One user brought up Gupta's 2002 film Kaante while responding to his post. The user pointed to the film's song ‘Rama Re,’ which contains a reference to cigarette smoke, and questioned the filmmaker's stance on smoking imagery. Gupta responded by highlighting the difference between the regulatory environment then and now. "There were no non smoking ads then you genius (sic)," he wrote.

There were no non smoking ads then you genius. — Sanjay Gupta (@_SanjayGupta) September 27, 2026

Debate comes amid updated film certification guidelines Gupta's comments also come at a time when India's rules around the depiction of substance use in films are undergoing renewed attention. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting published revised guidelines for the certification of films for public exhibition on September 18, 2026.

The updated certification framework includes provisions concerning the depiction of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, alongside existing areas such as violence, sensitive subjects and content that could affect India's international relations. Recent reports on the revised guidelines state that films depicting the consumption, use or trafficking of illicit narcotics are required to carry an anti-drug warning on screen.

Also Read: Sanjay Gupta slams IMDb after Satluj’s 9.5 rating disappears: “This proves how bogus they are”

India’s Best Dancer Season 5: Raipur’s Ritesh Pal wins the trophy with choreographer Pratik Utekar

After months of spectacular performances, and unforgettable dance moments to the theme of India Wala Dance on Sony Entertainment Television’s India’s Best Dancer Season 5, Raipur’s Ritesh Pal, together with choreographer Pratik Utekar, crowned the winners of the season. From the very beginning, Ritesh’s journey stood out for his passion, versatility and determination. He consistently pushed his boundaries, won the coveted Battle trophy thrice this season, and earned appreciation for his powerful and well curated dance performances. The journey also challenged him to step beyond his comfort zone, explore different dance forms and showcase his versatility as a performer. The duo together with their exceptional talent, consistency and dedication, emerged victorious, lifting the coveted trophy after a thrilling Grand Finale.

Ritesh Pal’s journey culminated in a spectacular finale, where he and his choreographer Pratik, competed against fellow finalists Dipali Borkar, Prathamesh Mane, Anshika Dhara and Geetanjali Marwaha. Showcasing their versatility across dance forms, Ritesh and Pratik continued to impress the judges and audiences through the season, ultimately earning the title of India’s Best Dancer Season 5.

The Grand Finale was truly a star-studded affair with the presence of the judges Karisma Kapoor, Jaaved Jaaferi, Geeta Kapur and Terence Lewis, who have mentored and guided the contestants throughout their journey this season. Adding to the glitz and glamour were actors Jackie Shroff, along with special guests Tamannaah Bhatia and Sidharth Malhotra, who joined the judges and finalists in marking the grand culmination of an unforgettable season.

Ritesh Pal, Winner of India’s Best Dancer Season 5, said, “Dance has always been my passion, and winning India’s Best Dancer Season 5 is a dream come true. I feel truly fortunate to be a part of this journey with Sony Entertainment Television. India Wala Dance pushed me beyond my comfort zone and helped me grow as a performer. I am grateful to Karisma Ma’am, Jaaved Sir, Geeta Maa and Terence Sir for their guidance, with Geeta Maa holding a special place in my heart. A special thank you to my choreographer Pratik Utekar Sir for believing in me and transforming my journey. I have learnt so much from my fellow contestants. This trophy makes every challenge worthwhile.”

Choreographer Pratik Utekar said, “Winning India’s Best Dancer Season 5 with my shishya Ritesh Pal is an incredibly proud and emotional moment. I am so happy to see his growth, and Ritesh has always trusted my vision and wholeheartedly accepted my guidance. Since we both come from a contemporary dance background, India Wala Dance challenged us to step out of our comfort zone and explore new dance forms. We overcame every challenge together, and lifting this trophy with him makes this victory truly special.”

With Raipur’s Ritesh Pal taking home the coveted trophy, India’s Best Dancer Season 5 concludes another memorable chapter, celebrating India's finest dancing talent and bringing together powerful performances, diverse dance forms, and inspiring journeys on one stage.

Also Read: India’s Best Dancer Season 5: Karisma Kapoor reveals her “unusual” connection to the Fiza song ‘Mehboob Mere’

BREAKING: PVR Inox announces a delicious offer - Buy 4 tickets of Drishyam The Conclusion and get Pav Bhaji free

The Drishyam franchise is synonymous not just with unexpected twists and turns, edge-of-the-seat moments and memorable performances, but also with Pav Bhaji. In Drishyam (2015), Vijay Salgaonkar (Ajay Devgn) and his family repeatedly claimed that they had eaten the popular delicacy. The reference caught on big time with the audience and eventually became an iconic part of the franchise, especially in the world of memes. Interestingly, Vijay Salgaonkar and his family claim to have had Pav Bhaji on October 2. This year, Drishyam The Conclusion, the third film in the franchise, is also arriving in cinemas on October 2. And now, PVR INOX Cinemas has added to the fun with an interesting offer.

On the evening of September 27, PVR INOX Cinemas announced on its social media handle that audiences who purchase four tickets for Drishyam The Conclusion will get one plate of Pav Bhaji free. Terms and conditions apply, and as per the post, the offer is valid only at select PVR INOX properties.

 

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Bollywood Hungama had exclusively spoken to director-writer-producer Abhishek Pathak ahead of the release. We asked him if he plans to collaborate with Sardar Pav Bhaji or another prominent Pav Bhaji restaurant as part of the film's promotional campaign.

Abhishek laughed and said, “I don’t know. That’s a call the marketing team will take. They’ll decide who to tie up with, whether it’s to sell Pav Bhaji or have it delivered to audiences in theatres. They may already be working on something along those lines.”

Abhishek further said, “Hopefully, people will come and enjoy the film on October 2. And once they love it, they can go and eat Pav Bhaji!”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Abhishek Pathak on Drishyam The Conclusion’s Rs. 50 CRORE opening predictions: “I don’t want to hope anything”; promises a MASSY ride: “Whole idea is that single screens mein taaliyan aur seetiyan baje”

Anubhav Sinha launches music label ‘Benaras Beat’ with exclusive songs to be unveiled

Anubhav Sinha is one of the most acclaimed directors and producer-writers in Indian cinema, having delivered a number of stories to audiences over the years. Known for his keen eye for storytelling, Sinha has consistently explored diverse narratives while also producing several notable films under his banner. Now, the filmmaker is all set to embark on a new journey as he launches his own music label, Benaras Beat, marking a new chapter in his creative journey.

Talking about this new venture, Anubhav revealed that the idea of the label had been in his head for several years. Sharing his deep-rooted love for music and how the idea eventually took shape, he said, “So, there is a very interesting saying that if you want to do something and you don't do anything about it, then it's a dream, and if you want to do something and you do a lot about it, then it's an ambition. Benaras Beat was formed in my head and in the office about 7-8 years back. I love music, so much so that 3 years back I started learning music. It's my passion for music since childhood. There is music playing in my room all the time.”

He added, “The idea germinated about 7-8 years back when I thought I'll make music outside of films as well, but I could not set up a team. This happened about a year back when I started working with a couple of composers, the whole team was set up, and now we have created some songs.”

With Benaras Beat, Anubhav Sinha is finally bringing an idea he has nurtured for years to life. The filmmaker is now looking to explore music beyond films and create new songs with the team he has put together. For Sinha, the label is not just another venture but an extension of a passion that has been part of his life since childhood, offering audiences a glimpse into a different side of his creativity.

Also Read: Anubhav Sinha reveals how he convinced Waheeda Rehman to join his upcoming film; says, “I promised to feed her the best food in Lucknow”

Ramayana makers unveil new poster featuring Yash as Ravana after special event with MrBeast

The makers of Ramayana have unveiled a new official poster featuring Yash as Ravana, following a special event attended by global internet personality MrBeast. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the two-part epic stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana.

Yash’s portrayal of Ravana was already glimpsed in the trailer released a couple of months ago. The newly released poster offers another look at his interpretation of the character, with the actor seen in an elaborate royal appearance.

In the poster, Yash is dressed in a heavily embellished golden crown featuring gemstones, along with layered pearl necklaces and gold bracelets. His intense expression and imposing appearance form the focus of the visual, offering another glimpse of how Ravana has been designed for the film.

The poster comes shortly after the makers hosted a special event where MrBeast was present. The latest reveal adds to the promotional campaign around the upcoming epic ahead of its theatrical release.

Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi and Yash Lead Ramayana

Ramayana features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Hanuman and Ravi Dubey as Lakshman.

The film is based on the Indian epic and is being mounted as a two-part project. It will be released in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam in India.

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana is produced by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios in association with DNEG and Yash’s Monster Mind Creations.

The film is scheduled for a worldwide IMAX release, with Ramayana: Part 1 arriving during Diwali 2026, followed by Ramayana: Part 2 in Diwali 2027.

Also Read: Ramayana makers drop new poster featuring Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi and Ravie Dubey after a special event with MrBeast

Ramayana makers drop new poster featuring Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi and Ravie Dubey after a special event with MrBeast

Ramayana, produced by Namit Malhotra and directed by Nitesh Tiwari, is one of the most anticipated films of 2026. With every asset, from its teaser to its trailer, the excitement surrounding the film has been continuously soaring. Now, amidst the rising exhilaration, the makers have dropped an endearing poster featuring Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi and Ravie Dubey as Lord Ram, Mata Sita and Lakshman, respectively.

In the poster of Ramayana, Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram looks composed, calm and courageous, carrying an aura of nobility with effortless grace. On the other hand, Sai Pallavi radiates grace, innocence, devotion, patience and fearlessness as Mata Sita, while Ravie Dubey as Lakshman stands as a true embodiment of loyalty, love and protectiveness. The poster holds immense significance as it brings Lord Ram, Mata Sita and Lakshman together in a single frame, making it a truly special moment in this epic.

The poster further fuels the excitement to witness Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi and Ravie Dubey bring these iconic characters to life on the big screen. In many ways, the casting has been one of the most crucial aspects of the project, and this poster says it all.

 

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Bringing to life one of the greatest tales ever told, Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana seeks to translate the epic’s scale, emotion and timeless characters into a cinematic spectacle. Ranbir Kapoor essays Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi plays Sita, Yash takes on the role of Ravana, Sunny Deol portrays Hanuman, while Ravie Dubey plays Lakshman. The film will be released in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam in India.

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios in association with 8-time Oscar-winning DNEG and Yash’s Monster Mind Creations, the two-part epic will release worldwide in IMAX, with Part 1 arriving in Diwali 2026 and Part 2 in Diwali 2027.

Also Read: VIRAL moment: Ranbir Kapoor teaches MrBeast to say “Jai Shri Ram”; Namit Malhotra explains Ramayana’s bow challenge to MrBeast with The Odyssey reference

Kartik Aaryan returns to Captain India sets after National Award win, receives warm welcome from crew

Kartik Aaryan has resumed shooting for Captain India in London following his National Award win for Best Actor at the 72nd National Film Awards, held in Gujarat on September 22. The actor was honoured for his performance in Chandu Champion, marking a major milestone in his career.

Back on the sets of Captain India, Kartik received a warm welcome from the team, who celebrated his National Award win with a cake-cutting celebration. Baweja Studios shared a glimpse of the celebrations on Instagram, with the team writing, “Welcome back Captain @kartikaaryan. Team #CaptainIndia is super proud to have you back on sets and we can’t stop celebrating!! 🥳 From having a National Award winning director to now a National Award winning actor on board 👏👏”

 

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Directed by Shimit Amin, Captain India stars Kartik Aaryan in the lead and is produced by T-Series, Baweja Studios and Dopamine Studios. The actor has now returned to the London schedule of the film, with the team celebrating his achievement before he gets back to work.

Also Read: Kartik Aaryan begins shooting for Shimit Amin’s Captain India in London after recovering from injury

India Ke Top 1%: Anil Kapoor reveals wife Sunita's Queen moment; says she went on honeymoon without him

Anil Kapoor recently opened up about his relationship with wife Sunita Kapoor while discussing travelling alone on the upcoming episode of India Ke Top 1%: The Anil Kapoor Show. A passing reference to Kangana Ranaut’s 2013 film Queen led the actor to share a personal anecdote about Sunita and their honeymoon.

During the conversation, Anil was reminded of Sunita when the topic of travelling alone came up. Recalling an incident from their early years together, he said, “Sunita akele gayi thi honeymoon par, main saath mein nahi gaya tha.” The actor then added an affectionate note while referring to his wife as his own Queen. Anil said, “Sunita hi meri Queen hai, aur hamesha rahegi.”

Anil and Sunita Kapoor have been married since 1984 and have three children, Sonam Kapoor, Rhea Kapoor and Harsh Varrdhan Kapoor. Over the years, the couple has often spoken about their long-standing relationship and family life.

The anecdote comes during an episode of India Ke Top 1%: The Anil Kapoor Show, where conversations around general topics often lead the actor to share personal stories. In this instance, a discussion about travelling solo brought up the story of Sunita travelling alone for their honeymoon, before Anil drew a connection to Queen and described his wife as the Queen in his life.

India Ke Top 1%: The Anil Kapoor Show airs this weekend at 8 PM on Star Plus and streams on JioHotstar.

Also Read: Anil Kapoor appeals to CEOs to consider Shiv Kumar after contestant shares job loss story on India Ke Top 1%: “Shiv Kumar se zaroor contact kijiye”

Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor headline Myntra’s Big Fashion Festival campaign, set to go live on October 8

Myntra, one of India's leading fashion, beauty and lifestyle platforms, today unveiled its campaign for the upcoming Big Fashion Festival (BFF), featuring brand ambassadors Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor. BFF will offer over 8 million styles when it goes live on 8th October. The campaign kicks off with a set of star-studded films, building excitement ahead of the shopping event.

Created around the idea that when a deal is too good to resist, even the most spontaneous, inconsequential thing can become a reason to shop, the campaign features a series of films that take everyday, familiar moments and spiral them into wildly exaggerated, laugh-out-loud logic. A stray scrunchie, an aunty's blessing, a Diwali cab ride, a lucky card game or simply a sneeze, each trigger sets off an escalating chain of thoughts that inevitably lands in one place: shopping from the Myntra BFF event.

Neha Gulati, Senior Director, Brand Marketing, Myntra, said, “BFF has always been about giving customers a reason to refresh their style at unmatched value. What we really wanted with this campaign was for the humour to do the heavy lifting. Through Alia and Ranbir, we've captured just how universally fun the logic behind shopping can be, a scrunchie, an OTP, even a sneeze can spiral into an entire imagined story that ends in a shopping cart. It's silly, it's relatable, and it's exactly the energy we want customers to associate with BFF this year. Each film is rooted in a moment everyone has lived through, which is what makes the hype so funny, and so easy to see yourself in. Ultimately, we want every customer, across every city, to feel that with deals this good, literally any reason is reason enough to shop.” Ranbir Kapoor Films The campaign comprises a set of films, each rooted in Myntra’s 3x proposition for unmatched value, built on the same spiraling, everyday logic.

Ranbir's films follow small, everyday triggers spinning into full-blown wardrobe overhauls. In the first, discovering an ex's scrunchie mid-Diwali-cleaning spirals into an elaborate imagined saga about her wedding invite and a Bollywood moment, sending him straight to Myntra for a fresh ethnic wardrobe. In the second, a simple act of offering his seat to an aunty at a wedding escalates into visions of blessings, a budding romance and dates that demand a style upgrade, from kurta to sharper shirts and trousers.

Alia's films bring the same spiraling logic to life from her point of view. In one, a cab driver's respectful “madam” over an OTP spins into fantasies of workplace respect, a big promotion and the hunt for the most glamorous outfit to celebrate in. In another, a lucky win at cards with a friend imagines its way into festive get-togethers, meeting a partner's family, and the need for the perfect kurta set.

Ranbir Kapoor, Actor, said, "These films are a lot of fun because the humour comes from something so real; we've all had a random thought spiral into a full-blown shopping decision. The logic makes zero sense and somehow makes complete sense at the same time. I think audiences are going to see a bit of themselves in every one of these moments, and that's what makes BFF's campaign and proposition land so well this year."

Alia Bhatt, Actor, said, “I love how these films take the smallest, most random things… an OTP, a card game, even a sneeze… and somehow your brain turns them into a perfectly good reason to shop! Which, honestly, is very relatable. We all have those moments where one thought leads to another and suddenly you’ve completely justified something you probably didn’t need five minutes ago. It made the films really fun to shoot because the situations are silly, but also weirdly real. And this time, with Myntra BFF, there’s actually a reward for letting your mind run away with you!”

Also Read: Alia Bhatt REACTS to Ranbir Kapoor’s first look from Love & War: “Hey Handsome”

Ajay Devgn-Kajol’s Juhu bungalow faces BMC stop-work notice over proposed salon and spa: Reports

Actor Ajay Devgn and Kajol’s Juhu bungalow has come under scrutiny after the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) issued a stop-work notice over work linked to a proposed salon and spa at the property. The development follows objections from the Kapol Co-operative Housing Society, which has questioned the proposed commercial use of the residential premises.

The Devgn camp, however, has maintained that the necessary permissions and approvals for the proposed use have already been obtained. The matter is now likely to hinge on the documents submitted by the property owners and the civic body’s assessment of those approvals. BMC seeks documents over proposed commercial use The property in question is a 7,802 sq ft bungalow located at Plot S-10 on N S Road No. 11 in Mumbai’s JVPD Scheme. According to reports, the housing society approached the BMC after noticing work related to the proposed salon and spa at the premises.

Following the complaint, officials from the BMC’s K-West ward sought documents relating to the proposed commercial activity. The civic body said the required permission for commercial use was not produced, following which the stop-work notice was issued.

Local corporator Sudha Singh said the matter was being handled by the Building and Factory Department of the K-West ward. “The issue is with the Building and Factory Department of K-West ward,” Singh said, adding that “prima facie, no permission was granted for commercial use” of the property.

The Devgn family has reportedly sought four weeks to respond to the notice. Society Raises Concerns Over Commercial Activity The dispute is understood to centre on the proposed use of the bungalow rather than the property being leased. Residents have raised concerns about the possible impact of a commercial establishment in the residential neighbourhood, including increased footfall, parking requirements, security and noise.

The issue has also drawn attention because of the narrow internal roads in the area.

According to reports, Florian Hurel Salons Pvt Ltd has taken the bungalow on a five-year registered leave-and-licence agreement dated August 10. The reported rent starts at Rs 16 lakh per month during the first year, with an annual escalation.

The housing society has also questioned whether the proposed salon and spa can operate from the property without the required civic and statutory clearances. Reports indicate that the society had sought documents concerning the proposed commercial activity and related approvals. Devgn camp says approvals have been obtained While the BMC has stated that the relevant permissions were not produced when requested, the Devgn camp has disputed any suggestion that the proposed venture is operating without approvals.

A source from the Devgn camp told Hindustan Times, “The requisite permissions and approvals from the concerned authorities in relation to the proposed use of the premises have been duly obtained.”

The two positions now put the focus on the paperwork and whether the approvals cited by the Devgn camp cover the proposed commercial activity at the bungalow.

Also Read: Ajay Devgn’s birthday wish for Kajol is peak married-best-friend energy! Check post here!

Madhuri Dixit becomes brand ambassador for Madhusudan Frozen; actress to front frozen foods brand for two years

Madhuri Dixit has added a new brand association to her portfolio. The actress has been appointed as the brand ambassador of Madhusudan Frozen, the frozen foods arm of the Madhusudan brand, for a two-year association. Through the partnership, the company plans to build awareness around its range of frozen vegetables and ready-to-cook food products.

The association sees Madhuri lend her name to a category that is increasingly becoming part of urban household cooking, with convenience emerging as one of the key factors driving demand for frozen and ready-to-cook foods. Madhusudan Frozen offers farm-picked, rapidly frozen vegetables as well as ready-to-cook options, with the company following a farmer-to-freezer approach that involves working with farmers and processing produce soon after harvest.

Speaking about the collaboration, Madhusudan Frozen managing director Amit Aggarwal said the company sees the frozen foods category as the next step in its expansion beyond its established dairy business. He highlighted quality and convenience as the key areas of focus and said Madhuri’s connect with Indian households and enduring popularity made her a suitable choice for the association. He added that the company hopes the two-year partnership will help introduce more consumers to its range and the convenience it offers for everyday meals.

Madhuri, meanwhile, highlighted the journey of the produce before it reaches consumers. According to the actress, what appealed to her about the association was the brand’s focus on working closely with farmers and processing vegetables soon after harvest. She noted that the combination of produce sourced at the farm level and the convenience of ready-to-cook formats is relevant to the way families cook today. Madhuri added that she was looking forward to helping consumers discover the ease, variety and flexibility that frozen foods can offer.

As part of its ready-to-cook range, Madhusudan Frozen also offers Chaaps, positioned as a protein-rich option that can be prepared quickly. The company has entered the category at a time when India’s frozen foods market is expanding. According to IMARC, the market was valued at Rs 21,659 crore in 2025 and is projected to reach Rs 64,364 crore by 2034, with changing lifestyles and demand for convenient meal solutions among the factors contributing to the growth.

For Madhuri, the new association comes amid her continued presence across films and streaming projects. On the work front, the actress was last seen in Maa Behen, which also starred Triptii Dimri, Dharna Durga and Ravi Kishan. The film premiered on Netflix on June 4.

Also Read: Madhuri Dixit turns host for Kon Honar Crorepati; actress unveils first promo in Maharashtrian avatar

EXCLUSIVE: CBFC censors 7 seconds of frontal nudity visuals in Robert Pattinson-starrer Primetime

This Friday will see the release of several Hollywood films, one of which is Primetime. The film has caught some attention due to its subject, treatment and casting of Robert Pattinson. 3 days before release, the India distributors completed the censor process. In this article, Bollywood Hungama will focus on the same.

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) passed the film with an 'A' certificate. However, they asked the makers to make some changes. Obscene words were muted in two places. Frontal nudity visuals, lasting 7 seconds, were asked to be deleted. Finally, a disclaimer-cum-warning was added at the beginning of the film, which read, "This film is strictly intended for adult audiences due to its sensitive theme and the disturbing nature of certain visuals and sequences. Viewer discretion is strongly advised".

Once these changes were made, the censor certificate was handed over to the studio, PVR Inox Pictures, on September 22. The length of the film, as mentioned on the certificate, is 110.15 minutes. In other words, Primetime is 1 hours, 50 minutes and 15 seconds.

Primetime is adapted from the 2007 Esquire article 'Tonight on Dateline This Man Will Die' by Luke Dittrich. It tells the story of Chris Hansen (Robert Pattinson), an NBC TV journalist and host of ‘To Catch A Predator’, in which he exposed suspected online child predators by luring them to suburban decoy homes rigged with hidden surveillance cameras. The film premiered in the competition section of the 83rd Venice International Film Festival. Besides Robert Pattinson, Primetime also stars Skyler Gisondo, Merritt Wever, Matthew Maher, Phoebe Bridgers, Anna Faris and others.

Sajid Nadiadwala’s Nadiadwala Grandson seals 11-month Andheri office space deal; pays Rs. 55 lakhs upfront

Sajid Nadiadwala’s Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment Private Limited has expanded its office footprint in Mumbai with a new lease at Lotus Grandeur in Andheri West. The production house has taken two office units on the eighth floor of the commercial complex, along with two reserved parking spaces.

According to property documents, the 11-month agreement with Rhea and Dia Enterprises carries a monthly licence fee of Rs. 5 lakhs. The total licence fee of Rs. 55 lakhs for the tenure was paid on September 16, 2026. The agreement was registered on September 21 and the licence period begins on November 1, 2026.

The premises are Office Nos. 801 and 802, adding two more units to Nadiadwala Grandson’s presence at the property. A fit-out period has also been provided from September 21 to October 31, ahead of the commencement of the licence period.

Interestingly, this is not the production house’s first transaction involving the same property. Earlier this year, two other office units on the eighth floor, Nos. 803 and 804 were leased for a 28-month period beginning August 1, 2026. That agreement carries a monthly licence fee of Rs. 8.27 lakhs, with a 5% escalation after every 12 months, along with a Rs. 30 lakhs security deposit.

The latest transaction therefore takes the number of office units occupied by Nadiadwala Grandson at Lotus Grandeur to four.

Founded by Sajid Nadiadwala, Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment has been behind several prominent Hindi film projects and continues to maintain a significant business presence in Mumbai, one of the country's key entertainment hubs.

With the latest deal, the production banner has added two more office spaces to its Andheri operations, taking its total presence at the commercial property to four units.

Also Read: SCOOP: Aamir Khan, Sajid Nadiadwala and R. Balki discussing an ambitious superhero film

Welcome actor Mushtaq Khan passes away at the age of 56

Veteran actor and comedian Mushtaq Khan passed away today at the age of 56 in Mumbai. The actor, who worked extensively across Hindi films and television over a career spanning several decades, was known for his supporting roles in films including Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke, Jodi No. 1 and Welcome.

At present, details surrounding Mushtaq Khan’s demise have not been revealed. Reports suggest that the 56 year old actor passed away after battling cancer. But there has been no official information available regarding the cause of death, while details about his health prior to his passing have also not been disclosed.

Mushtaq Khan was a familiar face in Hindi cinema and had worked across a wide range of films over the years. He gained recognition for his performances in character and comic roles, with his appearance in Anees Bazmee’s Welcome remaining among his better-known screen outings. In the 2007 comedy, he played the character of Ballu, a disabled hockey player, alongside an ensemble cast that included Akshay Kumar, Nana Patekar, Anil Kapoor, Katrina Kaif and Paresh Rawal.

 

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His filmography also includes Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke (1993) and Jodi No. 1 (2001), among several other Hindi film projects. He continued to remain active in the entertainment industry in recent years, with his credits including films such as Stree 2, Gadar 2, Jaat and other projects.

Mushtaq Khan was born in Baihar town of Madhya Pradesh’s Balaghat district. He went on to build a career as an actor and comedian, becoming a recognisable presence through his work in Hindi cinema and television.

As news of his passing emerges, further details about the circumstances of his demise and information from his family or representatives are awaited.

Amitabh Bachchan BEATS Shah Rukh Khan by just 1 lakh followers in Hurun Rich List 2025 Social Media Data

The M3M Hurun India Rich List 2025 not only puts the spotlight on India’s wealthiest names but also offers an interesting glimpse into the enormous digital influence commanded by some of its notable entrants. While the list spans entertainment, business and technology, Bollywood personalities occupy the top three spots when it comes to social media following, with Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan and Hrithik Roshan emerging as the biggest names.

According to the report, Amitabh Bachchan has a social media following of 487 lakh (4.87 crore) across X (formerly Twitter), Instagram and LinkedIn, based on the maximum follower count across these platforms. Shah Rukh Khan follows extremely closely with 486 lakh (4.86 crore), while Hrithik Roshan stands at 481 lakh (4.81 crore). The numbers underline just how formidable the digital reach of Bollywood’s biggest stars remains even alongside some of India’s most influential business and technology leaders.

The gap between the top three is remarkably narrow. Amitabh Bachchan leads Shah Rukh Khan by just 1 lakh followers, while Hrithik Roshan is only 6 lakh behind Bachchan. Together, the three Bollywood superstars account for an astounding 1,454 lakh, or 14.54 crore followers.

Karan Johar is the next Bollywood name featured in the table, with 182 lakh (1.82 crore) followers. His following is significantly ahead of several prominent business and technology figures included in the report.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella has 116 lakh followers, followed closely by Anand Mahindra at 115 lakh. Google CEO Sundar Pichai has a following of 56 lakh, while Bollywood actor and entrepreneur Juhi Chawla and family register 53 lakh followers. Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani has 24 lakh, while entrepreneur and producer Ronnie Screwvala has 19 lakh.

The figures present an intriguing picture of influence beyond balance sheets. The M3M Hurun India Rich List 2025 features 1,687 individuals with wealth of at least Rs. 1,000 crore across 91 cities, highlighting the scale of wealth creation being tracked by the annual list.

Yet, when it comes to connecting with millions of people directly through social platforms, Bollywood’s enduring icons remain a force of their own. With Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan and Hrithik Roshan collectively commanding more than 14.5 crore followers, the numbers show that their influence extends well beyond the big screen.

Also Read: Hurun Rich List 2025: From Bollywood star to billionaire mogul: How Juhi Chawla built her rs. 7,790 crore fortune

Hurun Rich List 2025: Shah Rukh Khan’s Rs. 12,490 crore wealth surpasses the combined wealth of Juhi Chawla, Hrithik Roshan & Karan Johar

Bollywood's biggest stars have long commanded massive fan followings and impressive box office numbers, but their fortunes increasingly extend far beyond films. The M3M Hurun India Rich List 2025 offers a glimpse into the business empires built by some of the industry's most prominent personalities, with Shah Rukh Khan and family emerging as the wealthiest Bollywood names on the list.

According to the report, Shah Rukh Khan and family have a reported wealth of Rs. 12,490 crore, placing them at the top of the list of Bollywood's wealthiest personalities. The actor's association with Red Chillies Entertainment has evolved into a diverse entertainment business, making his wealth significantly broader than his earnings as a performer.

Taking the second position is Juhi Chawla and family, with a reported wealth of Rs. 7,790 crore. A major factor behind the family's business interests is their association with Knight Riders Sports, giving the actress a significant presence beyond the film industry.

Hrithik Roshan occupies the third spot with wealth pegged at Rs. 2,160 crore. His business portfolio is represented by HRX, the brand that has expanded his presence into the lifestyle and fitness space. His ranking highlights how celebrity-led consumer brands have become an important part of the modern Bollywood business ecosystem.

At number four is filmmaker and producer Karan Yash Johar, who has a reported wealth of Rs. 1,880 crore. His association with Dharma Productions remains central to his business identity, with the production house continuing to be one of the prominent names in the Hindi entertainment industry.

Completing the top five is Amitabh Bachchan and family, with reported wealth of Rs. 1,630 crore. Unlike the other entries, the table lists investments as the associated business category, reflecting the wider financial interests built by the veteran actor and his family over the years.

Together, the five entries represent a reported Rs. 25,950 crore in wealth. More significantly, the ranking illustrates how Bollywood's biggest names have transformed their stardom into wider business portfolios, spanning entertainment, sports, brands and investments.

Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan leads India’s richest actors with Rs 10,000 crores net worth; despite Rs 2,490 crores drop in estimated wealth

Shah Rukh Khan leads India’s richest actors with Rs 10,000 crores net worth; despite Rs 2,490 crores drop in estimated wealth

Shah Rukh Khan has retained his position as the richest Indian actor in the Hurun India Rich List 2026. According to the latest ranking, the actor’s estimated net worth stands at Rs 10,000 crores. His wealth includes his business interests, including production company Red Chillies Entertainment and his involvement with Knight Riders Sports.

While Shah Rukh Khan continues to lead the list, his reported net worth has declined compared to the previous year. The Hurun India Rich List 2025 had estimated his net worth at Rs 12,490 crores. This marks a drop of Rs 2,490 crores, or around 20%, in the latest estimate. Earlier this year, the Hurun Global Rich List had placed his net worth at Rs 10,800 crores. A significant part of Shah Rukh Khan’s wealth is linked to his business ventures. Red Chillies Entertainment, which he runs with his wife Gauri Khan, is among his key business interests. The company has been involved in film production as well as visual effects through its associated ventures. The actor is also associated with Knight Riders Sports, the group behind cricket franchises including Kolkata Knight Riders. His involvement in the sports business forms another part of his overall financial portfolio. Shah Rukh Khan has been away from the big screen since 2023, when he starred in Pathaan, Jawan and Dunki. All three films were released in the same year and marked his return to leading roles following a period away from the big screen. The actor is now preparing for his next theatrical release, King. The film is directed by Siddharth Anand and stars Shah Rukh Khan alongside his daughter Suhana Khan. King is scheduled to release on December 24. With his latest reported net worth of Rs 10,000 crores, Shah Rukh Khan remains at the top among Indian actors featured in the Hurun India Rich List 2026. His reported wealth, however, is lower than the estimate recorded for him in the previous edition of the list.

Also Read : SHOCKING: Sameer reveals, “Nadeem Saifi heard Zamaana Deewana’s script and told Ramesh Sippy, ‘Aisi WAHIYAAD kahani maine nahin suni’!”

The Paradise Mumbai press meet: Nani BREAKS silence on receiving ‘A’ rating: “Our film doesn’t have violence for the sake of violence…you can watch this film with your families, parents”

Nani, Sonali Kulkarni, Raghav Juyal and Kayadu Lohar attended the press meet of The Paradise in Mumbai. On September 21, it came to light that the action entertainer was passed by an ‘A’ certificate by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Nani was asked about it and he explained the rationale behind the rating.

Nani said, “Of course, when your film has received an ‘A’ certificate, you’ll miss out on kids and a chunk of moviegoers. But I also understand where it's all coming from. There’s a lot of violence in The Paradise.”

He continued, “There are some films, which are fully focused on violence and have violence for the sake of violence. The Paradise is not like that. Our film is a solid drama. It’s an emotional, commercial film and everybody will relate to it very well, regardless of the age group. Even families can come and watch it. You can go with your parents and watch it. You’ll enjoy it completely. But children can’t view the film because there’s a lot of violence.”

Nani further stated, “Everything that happens in the film is what we see around and what we can relate to. There’s drama, emotions and a love story; that is, everything which films, in general, have. But the violence portions are a little higher than other films.”

Did the makers try to secure a U/A rating? Nani replied, “No. We were prepared while shooting itself that we would receive an adult rating.”

The Paradise releases in cinemas on September 24.

The censor cuts

The makers were asked to replace alternate visuals of crow on National Flag. The visuals of a pregnant woman in the beginning were asked to be modified. A foul word was allowed in one place and muted in the rest of the scenes. A scene of a character having a tattoo with a foul word was covered with CGI. The word 'denotified tribe' was asked to be deleted.

The duration of violent stabbing visuals was reduced. In fact, ten other violent scenes replete with torture and blood spills were removed. In three places, words on armed struggle against the country were modified or muted. A reference to a real-life assassination and historical event was muted. Similarly, a reference to a real-life cigarette brand was asked to be censored.

Also Read: High DRAMA before The Paradise Mumbai press meet; Raghav Juyal’s driver ‘STEALS’ fellow resident’s car by mistake; confusion causes delay

Srikanth honoured with National Film Award for Best Hindi Film; producer Bhushan Kumar receives prestigious honour from President Droupadi Murmu

From bringing the extraordinary journey of Srikanth Bolla to the screen to being honoured on one of the most prestigious stages of Indian cinema, Srikanth marked a moment of immense pride today as the film received the National Film Award for Best Hindi Film at the 72nd National Film Awards.

The prestigious honour was presented by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, at the official awards ceremony held at Ekta Nagar, Kevadia, Gujarat. Producer Bhushan Kumar and director Tushar Hiranandani took the stage to receive the National Film Award for Srikanth, marking a significant milestone in the journey of the film and its entire team.

Bhushan Kumar, Producer, said, “Receiving the National Award for Srikanth is an incredibly proud and humbling moment. When we chose to tell Srikanth Bolla’s story, we were deeply moved by his determination, resilience and refusal to let circumstances define his dreams. Tushar Hiranandani brought immense sensitivity and conviction to the telling of this story, while Rajkummar Rao, Jyotika, Alaya F and Sharad Kelkar brought their characters to life with remarkable sincerity. To see the film receive this honour makes this moment truly special. This recognition belongs to the entire team who believed in the story and gave their best to bring Srikanth Bolla’s extraordinary journey to audiences.”

Tushar Hiranandani, Director, said, “Srikanth Bolla’s life is not just a story of overcoming challenges, but of having the courage to dream beyond what the world believes is possible. As a filmmaker, I feel deeply grateful that we had the opportunity to bring his journey to the screen. Receiving the National Film Award from the Hon’ble President of India is a moment I will cherish for the rest of my life. This honour is a tribute to Srikanth Bolla and to the belief, perseverance and spirit that his story represents.”

Nidhi Parmar Hiranandani, Producer, said, “For me, the most rewarding part of making Srikanth has been seeing how deeply audiences connected with the film and with Srikanth Bolla’s journey. Stories like these remind us of the power of cinema to introduce us to extraordinary lives and leave us with something to carry forward. This National Film Award is a beautiful recognition of that journey, and I am deeply grateful to everyone who made this film possible.”

Inspired by the remarkable life and achievements of industrialist Srikanth Bolla, Srikanth celebrates determination, resilience and the power of believing beyond limitations. The film brought his inspiring journey to audiences across the country, highlighting how his vision and unwavering spirit enabled him to overcome challenges and build an extraordinary path for himself.

The National Award marks another significant milestone for the film, celebrating its impact as a story that continues to inspire audiences across the country.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: G V Prakash Kumar reflects on National Award win for Amaran: “It is a deeply emotional recognition”

EXCLUSIVE: Vivek Oberoi keeps his promise; donates his ENTIRE Ramayana remuneration towards treatment of 50 children battling cancer to mark his 50th birthday

Vivek Oberoi has marked his 50th year with a gesture aimed at making a difference in the lives of children battling cancer. On the occasion of Cancer Rose Day, the actor fulfilled a promise he had made last year by taking responsibility for the treatment of 50 children battling the disease.

The gesture is particularly significant as Vivek had revealed in October 2025 that he had decided not to take home his remuneration from Nitesh Tiwari’s ambitious Ramayana, co-starring Ranbir Kapoor, Yash and Sai Pallavi. Instead, the actor had pledged to use the entire amount towards supporting children undergoing cancer treatment.

Speaking to Hindustan Times at the time, Vivek had said, “I told Namit (Malhotra, producer) that I don’t want a penny for this. I want to donate it to a cause I believe in – kids with cancer.”

He had further explained why he wanted to be a part of Ramayana and support producer Namit Malhotra’s vision, saying, “I told him I want to support you because I just love what you’re doing, and I think this will take Indian cinema on the global stage with a bang.”

Nearly a year later, Vivek has now followed through on that commitment. Coinciding with Cancer Rose Day and his milestone 50th year, the actor has taken responsibility for the treatment of 50 children battling cancer, effectively turning the remuneration from one of his biggest upcoming films into assistance for young patients and their families.

Vivek Oberoi has been associated with initiatives supporting cancer patients for several years. Hence, his decision to dedicate his Ramayana earnings to the cause was an extension of his long-standing involvement with cancer-related charitable efforts.

With the latest initiative, the actor has ensured that the promise he publicly made in 2025 has translated into action – with his 50th year becoming an occasion to extend support to 50 children in their fight against cancer.

Also Read: Ravie Dubey defends Ranbir Kapoor’s Lord Rama casting amid Ramayana debate; says, “Ranbir is simply the best we have, he is a superstar of epic proportions”

Veteran actor Radha files complaint against sister Ambika and brother over alleged Rs 50 crores cheque fraud

Veteran actor Udayachandrika, popularly known as Radha, has filed a police complaint against her sister and actress Ambika Nair and their brother, Mallikarjuna Kunjan Nair, also known as Arjun Nair. In her complaint, Radha has alleged that the siblings conspired to take and misuse old cheques belonging to her and attempted to defraud her of nearly Rs 50 crores.

According to news agency PTI, Radha submitted a detailed petition to the Greater Chennai Police Commissioner on Monday. She stated that she received an email alert from the IDBI Bank branch in Porur on September 17 informing her that five high-value cheques had been presented for encashment in Ambika's name. The cheques were reportedly for Rs 11 lakh, Rs 13.17 crores, Rs 27.73 crores, Rs 7 crores and Rs 1.79 crores.

After receiving the alert, Radha immediately requested the bank to stop the payments. She maintained that there had been no financial transaction or legally enforceable debt between her and Ambika that would justify the cheque payments.

Radha has further alleged that the cheques were filled in the handwriting of their brother, Mallikarjuna. In her complaint, she also claimed that Mallikarjuna is facing financial liabilities related to proceedings under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), 1999, and alleged that he is under pressure to pay a penalty following a 2025 FEMA case before the Madras High Court.

The actor has accused her siblings of "trespassing" into her room and taking the cheques with the alleged intention of using them for their financial requirements. She stated that the cheques were part of a 50-leaf cheque book issued in 2022 for her business, which was then operating under the name ARS Garden Studio.

Radha said the business name was officially changed to RR Gardens under GST regulations in January 2025, after which she obtained a new cheque book. As a result, she considered the older cheques invalid and had kept them aside as scrap in her room.

Radha also stated that because of her frequent business travel, she kept five or six signed blank cheques in her room for routine maintenance expenses and salary payments during her absence.

According to the complaint, Radha lives on the ground floor of her Valasaravakkam residence, where Ambika also resides and had access to her portion of the house based on their relationship and trust.

Radha has further alleged that she is now being prevented from checking her valuables and important documents kept in the same room, including gold and diamond ornaments and property papers. She has requested the police to investigate the alleged conspiracy and take criminal action against her siblings under the applicable provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

The allegations are part of Radha's complaint and will be subject to police investigation.

Indian Festival of Perth to debut in November 2026, showcase 30+ films across Indian and South Asian languages; details inside!

Indian cinema is set to make its mark in Western Australia with the announcement of the inaugural Indian Festival of Perth, taking place across multiple locations in Perth from November 12 to November 15, 2026. The four-day festival is the latest expansion of the team behind the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) and the Indian Film Festival of Sydney (IFFS), two established celebrations of Indian cinema in Australia. The Perth edition marks the team’s expansion into a third major Australian city, bringing the diversity of Indian and South Asian cinema to audiences in Western Australia for the very first time.

The special announcement was made during Western Australian Premier Roger Cook’s visit to India, where he announced the inaugural festival during his keynote address, highlighting the growing cultural and creative ties between India and Western Australia.

The inaugural edition will showcase more than 30 films across Indian and South Asian languages, offering audiences an opportunity to discover stories and filmmakers from across the subcontinent.

Announcing the festival, Western Australian Premier Roger Cook said, “I am pleased to announce the inaugural Indian Festival of Perth, which will take place across multiple locations in Perth from November 12th to November 15th this year. The festival will showcase more than 30 films across Indian and South Asian languages. And the inaugural festival will welcome a select group of celebrated Indian Filmmakers who will get to witness Western Australian hospitality and visit Perth Film Studio".

Mitu Bhowmick Lange, who is behind both the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne and Indian Film Festival of Sydney, said, “We are incredibly excited to bring Indian cinema to Perth for the very first time. The launch of the Indian Festival of Perth is a natural extension of what we have been building across Melbourne and Sydney, and it is wonderful to now create a platform for audiences in Western Australia to experience the incredible diversity of Indian and South Asian cinema. Beyond the films, we hope the festival will create meaningful connections between filmmakers, audiences and the wider creative community, and open up new conversations and collaborations between India and Western Australia.”

The launch further strengthens the cultural bridge between India and Australia, with the festival creating a new platform for Indian storytelling in Western Australia and expanding the footprint of Indian cinema across the country.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Sai Tamhankar on Bol Bol Rani releasing in Melbourne and Perth on August 16, “It’s a wonderful feeling to see the film travel beyond borders”

The Vvaan makers acquire sync rights after Sargam Vaish’s copyright claim over ‘Aigiri Nandini’

The makers of The Vvaan: Force Of The Forrest have acquired the sync rights to a recording of ‘Aigiri Nandini’ after musician Sargam Vaish alleged that his master recording was used in the film’s trailer without his permission.

Vaish had raised the issue on September 20, when he took to Instagram and claimed that a recording of ‘Aigiri Nandini’ created by him had been used in the trailer of the Sidharth Malhotra-starrer without obtaining his consent. The recording, according to Vaish, was originally created for a Ram Gopal Varma film, and he holds the master rights to it. Balaji Motion Pictures legal team meets musician Within 24 hours of Vaish publicly raising the issue, Balaji Motion Pictures’ legal team met with the musician. Vaish told Mid-Day that executives and lawyers from Ektaa R Kapoor’s production house met him on the evening of September 21 and subsequently acquired the sync rights for the recording.

Speaking about the meeting, Vaish said, “Balaji’s executives and lawyers have been cooperative. We met them today; they were kind and apologetic, even though they didn’t cause [the leak]. They are taking the sync rights for the track. I am grateful for the fact that we were able to resolve it so smoothly.” Sargam Vaish says he was not approached for permission Vaish recalled being surprised when he heard his version of Aigiri Nandini in the trailer of the Deepak Kumar Mishra-directed feature. “This is the version I had created for Ram Gopal Varma’s film. I own the master rights. No one had approached me for an NOC or permission,” he said. Source of recording leak remains unknown While the sync rights have now been acquired, Vaish said that he and the concerned parties are still trying to determine how his recording reached the Vvaan team in the first place. “The source of the leak is not known to us yet. We are trying to trace how this happened,” he added.

The Vvaan: Force Of The Forrest stars Sidharth Malhotra in the lead and is directed by Deepak Kumar Mishra. The film is backed by Balaji Motion Pictures and is scheduled to release on September 25.

Also Read: Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia bring their dance moves to The Vvaan’s ‘Thummak Thummak’; song out now

Manoj Bajpayee moves Delhi High Court over alleged misuse of image, voice and AI-generated identity

Actor Manoj Bajpayee has approached the Delhi High Court seeking protection of his personality rights, raising concerns over the alleged unauthorised use of his image, voice and aspects of his identity. The 57-year-old actor filed the petition on Monday, with the matter coming up before Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav.

According to a report by Live Law, Senior Advocate Swathi Sukumar appeared for Bajpayee during the hearing. The petition reportedly raises concerns over the use of the actor’s photographs for commercial purposes, along with the use of artificial intelligence to recreate his voice and elements associated with his personality.

One of the entities named in the proceedings is H2PG Designs Private Limited. Bajpayee has alleged that the company used his photographs in a manner that suggested he was wearing suits manufactured by the brand. Another defendant has allegedly used AI technology to reproduce the actor’s voice. The actor has also sought protection against AI chatbots that may use identifiable aspects of his personality.

During Monday’s proceedings, the court also considered the issue of jurisdiction. Justice Kaurav questioned why the matter had been brought before the Delhi High Court when Bajpayee is primarily based in Mumbai. Sukumar submitted that certain defendants are located in Delhi, providing a basis for the court to exercise jurisdiction.

The judge also discussed how such personality rights matters could potentially be dealt with more efficiently, particularly in cases where defendants do not appear to contest the proceedings. Justice Kaurav observed that there would be “no point of burdening ourselves” if matters of this nature could routinely be handled by the Registrar rather than requiring a detailed court hearing.

The court has asked Bajpayee’s counsel to compile interim and final orders from earlier personality rights cases. She has also been directed to place on record how similar cases have been considered by other High Courts.

The Delhi High Court has previously dealt with personality rights petitions involving several public figures. Among those who have received protection in earlier proceedings are actors Tabu, Allu Arjun, Mohanlal, Kajol, R Madhavan and Jr NTR, along with cricketers Yuvraj Singh and Sunil Gavaskar, singer Jubin Nautiyal and others. Similar proceedings have also involved public figures including Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Nagarjuna, Karan Johar and Salman Khan.

Bajpayee’s latest petition comes amid growing legal questions surrounding the use of artificial intelligence to replicate recognisable aspects of public figures, including their voices, images and identities. The Delhi High Court’s consideration of the matter will determine the next steps in the actor’s plea.

Also Read: Manoj Bajpayee to play Mahatma Gandhi for the first time in Sudhir Mishra’s next

Karan Johar announces film on R&AW founder R.N. Kao, sets August 11, 2028 release!

Filmmaker Karan Johar has announced the release date of his long-gestating film on Rameshwar Nath Kao, the founder of India's external intelligence agency, Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW). The film is scheduled to arrive in cinemas on August 11, 2028. The announcement was made by Karan on social media, although details about the cast have not been revealed yet.

Sharing the announcement, Karan described Kao as “The Man, The Myth, The Legend” and wrote, “RN Kao - The Man, The Myth, The Legend. The founder of R&AW, who led India to an unprecedented win in the 1971 War against Pakistan. The story of R&AW, it's founder and the first ever mission in cinema hall / 11th August, 2028!”

In another caption, Karan elaborated on the project and revealed that it is based on Nitin Gokhale's book Gentleman Spymaster. He wrote, “He built the invisible…but history remembers his impact. Today marks 58 years of R&AW and we’re thrilled to announce our film on the story of RN Kao, the man who operated in the shadows & brought to light an institution we know today as R&AW - and its first mission. Based on the book Gentleman Spymaster by Nitin Gokhale, his story comes alive on big screens on 11 August, 2028.”

 

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Karan Johar first announced the project in 2020 Karan had first officially announced the project in January 2020. At the time, Dharma Productions and Still and Still Media Collective announced their collaboration on a film based on Nitin Gokhale's R.N. Kao: Gentleman Spymaster.

Karan's announcement described the project as “The Untold Story of the Real Life Indian Spymaster - Rameshwar Nath Kao.” He had also said that the film would explore Kao's role in founding R&AW and his journey in international espionage.

The project has now received an official theatrical release date, more than eight years after its initial announcement. The makers are yet to announce the cast or provide further details about the director and other members of the creative team. Who was R.N. Kao? Rameshwar Nath Kao (1918-2002) was an Indian intelligence officer and bureaucrat who played a key role in the country's intelligence establishment. In 1968, then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi appointed him as the founding Secretary of R&AW. Kao headed the agency until 1977.

The upcoming film is expected to focus on the formation of R&AW, Kao's role in building the organisation and its first mission. Karan's announcement also positions the project around the historical events associated with the agency and its founder. Another R.N. Kao project was announced for OTT Karan Johar's film is not the only project that has previously been announced around R.N. Kao's life. In 2022, filmmaker Hansal Mehta was announced as the creator and showrunner of an upcoming OTT series based on R K Yadav's book Mission R&AW.

The series was set to chronicle Kao's journey and work as the first chief of R&AW. However, there have been no significant updates on the project since its announcement.

Karan's newly announced film, meanwhile, now has a confirmed theatrical release date of August 11, 2028. Further details, including its cast and other production information, are awaited.

Also Read: SCOOP: Hrithik Roshan approached by Dharma Productions for film on Indian spymaster RN Kao

Samay Raina, Medha Shankr BREAK silence on December 2026 wedding reports; comedian quips, “Sorry, will have to postpone”

Comedian Samay Raina and actress Medha Shankr have reacted to reports claiming that they are planning to get married in December 2026. The speculation surfaced online after an anonymous Reddit post alleged that the two were planning to tie the knot later this year.

The post went viral on social media and claimed that Samay and Medha were currently vacationing together. It also alleged that Samay wanted to marry the 12th Fail actress “as soon as possible”. However, neither Samay nor Medha has publicly confirmed that they are in a relationship.

The two have now addressed the wedding speculation, with Samay responding to the reports in his trademark humorous style. Samay Raina jokes about “postponing” wedding Reacting to the reports, Samay shared an Instagram story and tagged Medha. He jokingly pointed out that his India tour is scheduled for December and wrote, “December mai toh mera India tour hai @medhashankr sorry will have to postpone."

Medha reshared Samay’s story and responded with laughing emojis, appearing to play along with the joke surrounding the viral reports. The actress later shared another meme on her Instagram story, adding the caption, “Me scrolling past all the baseless wedding rumours like."

Speculation around Samay and Medha’s equation has previously surfaced online. Medha recently appeared on Samay Raina’s India’s Got Latent Season 2, where she joined Varun Dhawan and Sharon Verma on the panel.

Also Read: Nawazuddin Siddiqui to feature on India’s Got Latent; actor shoots episode with Samay Raina and Bhuvan Bam

Sidharth Malhotra, Tamannaah Bhatia’s Vvaan trailer in controversy as composer alleges his song was used without permission

Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia's upcoming film The Vvaan - Force Of The Forrest has landed in controversy after vocalist and composer Sargam Vaish alleged that his original song was used in the film's trailer without his permission or consent.

Sargam raised the issue on Instagram on Sunday, claiming that his song Aigiri Nandini, which he said he had been working on for the past three years, features in the official trailer of The Vvaan - Force Of The Forrest. He has asked the concerned team to remove the song and provide details of any permission or licence that may have been obtained for its use. Sargam Vaish claims his song was used in Vvaan trailer In an Instagram reel, Sargam said he had come across the official trailer and discovered that his music had been used in it. He also pointed out the portion of the trailer where he believes his song appears and played the corresponding section to highlight the alleged use.

In the caption accompanying the post, Sargam wrote, "REMOVE MY SONG FROM THE VVAAN / I recently came across the “THE VVAAN – Official Trailer” and noticed that my original song has been used in it without my permission or consent. I have not given permission for my music to be used in the trailer or for its promotion. This is very important to me because I have already signed this work with a major music label, and this unauthorized use could affect my existing contract.”

He further added, “I believe every artist deserves to have their work respected. No artist’s work should be used without their permission. I kindly request the concerned team to please remove my music and contact me directly. If there is any valid permission or license for its use, I would appreciate being provided the details.”

Concluding his note, he wrote, “I’m sharing this here because I genuinely need your support. Please share this post and help me reach the right people. Thank you to everyone who stands with independent artists and respects their work."

 

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At present, Sargam's allegations are based on his Instagram statement. No response from the makers of The Vvaan - Force Of The Forrest has been provided in the information available.

The film stars Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia in the lead roles and is directed by Aditya Sarpotdar.

Also Read: The Vvaan team meets Bihar CM Samrat Choudhary; Sidharth Malhotra, Tamannaah Bhatia Film gets appreciation for showcasing their traditions

Bigg Boss 20: Rohed Khan exits as FIRST eviction, Salman Khan says, "Well played with dignity"

Rohed Khan’s stint in the Bigg Boss 20 house may have come to an end, but the contestant walked out with words of appreciation from none other than host Salman Khan. Rohed has become the first contestant to be eliminated from the season.

As Rohed prepared to bid farewell to the house, Salman Khan acknowledged his journey and appreciated the way he carried himself during his time on the show. Salman praised Rohed for maintaining his dignity through the highs and lows of the Bigg Boss experience.

Addressing him, Salman said, “Job well done. Well played with dignity. Your are a good man.”

The appreciation made Rohed’s final moments on the show particularly meaningful. During his stint, he found himself navigating changing equations, nominations and different dynamics inside the house, while getting the opportunity to showcase his personality to the audience.

The farewell also turned into a memorable exchange when Rohed opened up about his desire to work with Salman in the future. Expressing his admiration for the superstar, Rohed said, “I really want to work with you.”

Salman’s response left the door open for a possible collaboration someday. Salman Khan told Rohed, “One day we will work.”

The encouraging exchange added an emotional touch to Rohed’s exit and gave his Bigg Boss journey a positive closing moment.

Although his Bigg Boss 20 journey has concluded, Rohed’s exit was marked by Salman’s appreciation for the way he conducted himself with dignity. With Salman Khan's words of encouragement and the possibility of working together in the future, Rohed left the show on a memorable note.

Also Read: Bigg Boss 20: Mahhi Vij, Mary Kom lock horns after Love Gill provokes boxer over ration task, watch promo!

Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh welcome baby girl; couple shares sweet note

Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh have welcomed their second child, a baby girl. The couple took to social media on September 19 to share the news with their fans and followers through a simple announcement featuring a picture of a foot. The note read, “Welcome Home Baby Girl”, while also revealing September 19 as the birth date.

The announcement was followed by an outpouring of congratulatory messages from several members of the film industry. Kriti Sanon, Sonam Kapoor Ahuja, Sonu Sood, among others, extended their wishes to the couple as they welcomed another addition to their family.

 

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Deepika and Ranveer’s latest announcement marks another chapter in their relationship, which began after they worked together on Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela. The actors’ romance reportedly developed during the making of the 2013 film, eventually leading to their wedding in 2018.

After dating for several years, Deepika and Ranveer tied the knot on November 14 and 15, 2018, in an intimate destination wedding at Villa del Balbianello in Lake Como, Italy. The celebrations incorporated both Konkani and Sindhi traditions.

The couple welcomed their first child, daughter Dua Padukone Singh, on September 8, 2024. They had announced their first pregnancy earlier that year, and have since shared occasional glimpses of their journey as parents.

Deepika and Ranveer announced their second pregnancy on April 19, 2026, through a joint social media post featuring Dua. The announcement also revealed that the baby was due in September 2026.

In the months leading up to the birth, the couple also shared pictures from a maternity photoshoot. The images featured Deepika showcasing her baby bump alongside Ranveer, offering fans a glimpse into the couple’s preparations for the arrival of their second child.

With the September 19 announcement, Deepika and Ranveer have now welcomed their second daughter. The couple’s social media post, while keeping the announcement simple, quickly drew attention from fans and members of the entertainment industry, who joined in celebrating the latest addition to the family.

Also Read: Photos: Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh visit Siddhivinayak Temple

Isopure responds after Bipasha Basu alleges worms in protein powder: “Quality team evaluating pack”

Protein brand Isopure has issued a statement after actor Bipasha Basu alleged that she found worms in a newly opened container of its protein powder. In a video shared on social media, Bipasha claimed the product was contaminated, prompting an immediate response from the company.

“ISOPURE remains firmly committed to maintaining high standards of product quality and consumer safety. We connected promptly with the concerned Indian celebrity consumer, addressed her immediate concern, and appreciate her acknowledgement of our response. Our Quality team is currently evaluating the pack for authenticity and quality,” the company said in its statement.

In the clip circulated by the actress, Bipasha showed what appeared to be a small worm on her finger and stated that there were several others inside the container. “This Isopure is full of small worms. Tiny, tiny worms. The new dabba that we’ve opened,” she said while displaying the contents. Adding, “These are the worms inside it, full of it,” Bipasha alleged that the product was compromised.

The actor also sought regulatory intervention by tagging Tukaram Mundhe, Commissioner of Maharashtra's Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In her Instagram Story, she wrote, “@tukaram ias You are our only hope... So, we don't get spoilt or adulterated stuff in everything we purchase.”

Bipasha’s post arrives amid heightened attention on food safety and hygiene concerns involving products and establishments in Maharashtra. However, the specific allegation regarding the protein powder has not been independently verified at this stage.

The incident follows Bipasha’s recent digital cover appearance for Elle, where she discussed work, motherhood and making bold choices despite being advised against them. Her latest social media update, however, shifted focus from professional projects to a consumer safety concern that has quickly sparked widespread discussion online.

As Isopure’s quality team evaluates the pack, all eyes will be on the outcome of the investigation and whether further regulatory action follows.

Also Read: Bipasha Basu seeks Tukaram Mundhe’s help after she finds worms in protein powder: “You are our only hope”

CONFIRMED: Ajay Devgn-starrer Ranger pushed to 2027; WON’T clash with Akshay Kumar-Vidya Balan’s comic caper, Eetha

Ajay Devgn is currently gearing up for the much-awaited Drishyam The Conclusion. The thriller releases in cinemas on October 2 and marks the veteran actor’s second release of the year after the super-hit Dhamaal 4. His next film, tentatively-titled Ranger, co-starring Sanjay Dutt and Tamannaah Bhatia, was expected to arrive in cinemas on December 4. However, since last month, there have been reports that the film has been pushed to 2027.

Bollywood Hungama has now learned that the film has indeed been postponed and will release only next year. A source told us, “The film should release after Eid, which falls in March 2027. Hence, expect Ranger to be a summer release, which would be apt. It’s a jungle adventure and would be an ideal film to release during the school and college holidays.”

December 4, meanwhile, will now see the release of Akshay Kumar-Vidya Balan-Raashii Khanna’s untitled comic caper, directed by Anees Bazmee. It will clash with Shraddha Kapoor-starrer Eetha. There’s also a possibility of Prabhas’ period action drama, Fauzi, releasing on December 3. However, as per trade sources, it’s unlikely and like Ranger, it maybe pushed to 2027.

This means Ajay Devgn will have just two releases in 2026. According to an August report in Mid-Day, Ranger features Ajay as a forest officer determined to protect tigers. However, his mission is made increasingly difficult by an inefficient team, corrupt superiors and a ruthless gang of poachers led by Sanjay Dutt, who plays the antagonist.

The Mid-Day report also said that the climax was shot last month in Mumbai, after which the makers plan to film a special dance number with Tamannaah Bhatia and Ajay Devgn.

Ranger is produced by Luv Ranjan and directed by Jagan Shakti. In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama in January 2026, Luv said, “Ajay sir and Sanju sir have worked together so many times in these 25 years. Yet, they have never done an action film together. It is very shocking. It is extremely exciting that we’ll get to see them in an action film for the first time.”

Also Read: Alia Bhatt REACTS to Ajay Devgn’s Drishyam The Conclusion trailer: “Hat-trick incoming”

Karnataka High Court quashes 2% cess on movie tickets; big relief for multiplexes and moviegoers

In a significant relief for cinema exhibitors, the Karnataka High Court has quashed notices that had made the collection and remittance of a 2% cess on cinema tickets mandatory. The order, delivered on September 10, 2026, came in response to a writ petition filed by the Multiplex Association of India (MAI), PVR INOX, and other stakeholders in the exhibition sector.

The petitioners had challenged the notices on the grounds that they lacked legal backing. The Court agreed, noting that the Karnataka Cine and Cultural Workers (Welfare) Act, 2024, under which the cess was to be levied, had not yet been formally notified. In the absence of this notification, the Court held that the notices directing exhibitors to collect and remit the levy were issued without jurisdiction, and accordingly quashed them.

The ruling comes alongside a related development on the administrative front, with the State Government having already withdrawn its office order dated August 29, 2026, which had pertained to the same cess.

The case stemmed from concerns raised by MAI over the proposed additional levy on movie tickets. The association had argued that an added cess would push up the cost of cinema-going for audiences, potentially discouraging footfalls at a time when the exhibition sector is already navigating a challenging business environment. MAI further contended that such a levy would work against the broader push towards simplifying the indirect tax structure for the entertainment sector.

With the High Court's order now in place, questions remain around what lies ahead for welfare mechanisms intended to support cultural workers in the state, and whether alternative frameworks will be explored to address that objective without directly burdening ticket prices.

MAI has indicated that it is open to facilitating discussions with its representatives on the matter, including the broader implications of the ruling for exhibitors and consumers, industry concerns around taxation and affordability, potential alternative mechanisms for worker welfare initiatives, and the road ahead for Karnataka's cinema exhibition sector.

Also Read: Karnataka HC accepts Ranveer Singh’s unconditional apology in Kantara mimicry case