Shahid Kapoor-starrer Ashwatthama: The Saga Continues on hold as budget exceeds projections: Report

Shahid Kapoor’s anticipated mythological action film, Ashwatthama: The Saga Continues, has encountered unexpected delays. Announced with considerable enthusiasm in March at an Amazon Prime Video event, the film was set to be one of the streaming platform’s most ambitious projects from India. Directed by Kannada filmmaker Sachin B Ravi and produced by Vashu Bhagnani's Pooja Entertainment in collaboration with Amazon Studios, Ashwatthama was designed to rival international fantasy-action films. However, eight months later, production has been put on hold due to significant budget constraints and logistical challenges.

Budget Overrun Concerns According to a report by Mid-Day, the project was initially set with a substantial budget of over Rs 500 crore. Yet as pre-production advanced, costs began to escalate rapidly. The report quoted an insider saying, “The project’s scale was enormous. The idea was to create something that could rival international fantasy-action films. Ashwatthama was supposed to be shot across multiple countries. But as we began working out the logistics and coordinating shoots across international locations, it became clear that staying within budget would be a serious challenge.”

In addition to these challenges, Pooja Entertainment’s financial situation reportedly added pressure, further complicating the production process. This increase in budget and logistical complexity led to a decision to pause production until these issues could be resolved. Shahid Kapoor Shifts Focus Shahid Kapoor, who had already begun physical training for the role, is now said to have shifted his attention to an upcoming project with director Vishal Bhardwaj. Kapoor’s character in Ashwatthama was intended to bring a modern-day twist to the legendary warrior Ashwatthama from the Mahabharata, blending mythological elements with a contemporary narrative. Industry Caution Around High-Budget Films A trade insider highlighted that market conditions have made studios more cautious about approving high-budget projects. “Given the current state of the market, studios are being cautious about green-lighting mega-budget films. A project like Ashwatthama comes with a lot of risk,” the insider noted. 

With production on Ashwatthama: The Saga Continues now on hold, there remains uncertainty about when or if it will resume. Amazon Studios and Pooja Entertainment have yet to make official statements, and producer Vashu Bhagnani has not commented on the matter.

Also Read: Shahid Kapoor leases Rs. 58.6 cr worth Mumbai apartment for Rs. 20.5 lakh monthly rent

Eardrums Beware: Moviegoers suffer due to Kanguva's DEAFENING sound levels; theatres struggle with audience complaints

If you are planning to watch Kanguva in theatres this weekend, make sure you put cotton in your ears before entering the auditorium. Or carry over-the-counter medication for headache. This is because the film is too loud, with many calling it the loudest film that they have seen in their lives.

As per reports gathered by Bollywood Hungama, moviegoers across the country and also the world have complained of the high volume and it has affected the overall experience for the film. A manager at a multiplex spoke to us on condition of anonymity, “During the intermission of every show of Kanguva on its release day, irate moviegoers requested our staff to do something about the volume. Some of them even blasted our team, assuming that it’s us who have kept the volume high. But it’s not our fault. And I spoke to my counterparts and it's happening in other theatres as well.”

Many moviegoers have taken to social media to speak about their unpleasant experiences. An industry member, currently abroad, told us, “When I watched Kanguva, I felt like someone pierced my ears with a sharp knife. 70% of the film is ruined because of an irritating sound design that forces you to feel emotions for characters whereas you end up feeling forced to go and punch the soundbox in the auditorium.”

 

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Yesterday, Oscar-winning sound designer Resul Pookutty took to Instagram to talk about this aspect. He wrote, “High time our fraternity to put your foot down and say things loud and clear. No film will have a repeat value if the audience walk out with headache (sic).”

Bollywood Hungama was the first one to report of a similar instance which happened with KGF - Chapter 2 (2022). A few days after its release, makers rectified the issue and sent revised prints.

The exhibitors across the country are hoping that Kanguva makers also follow suit. An exhibitor from North India rued, “Some people suffer from high blood pressure or migraine. What if something happens to them when they are watching the film in my cinema hall? Hence, we hope the makers of the film listen to our plea.”

Kanguva stars Suriya and Bobby Deol and is directed by Siva.

Also Read: Suriya embraces “calm before the storm” approach ahead on Kanguva release; producer reveals director Siva “didn’t sleep for the last 90 days”

Junaid Khan to have two major releases around Valentine’s Day 2025: Report

After his Bollywood debut in Maharaj this June, Junaid Khan is gearing up for a potential double release around Valentine’s Day 2025. Trade insiders report that both of his upcoming films—one co-starring Sai Pallavi and produced by his father, Aamir Khan, and another romantic drama with Khushi Kapoor—are eyeing February release dates.

Aamir Khan's Production Targets Valentine's Day Junaid’s untitled film with Sai Pallavi, produced by Aamir Khan, is tentatively set for a February 14 release. “Aamir has been eyeing February 14 for months,” a source told Mid-Day. “They have planned promotions and distribution channels around this date. So, changing it now is difficult.”

Meanwhile, Junaid’s romantic drama with Khushi Kapoor, produced by Boney Kapoor and Phantom Studios, has already been slated for release a week earlier on February 7. Directed by Advait Chandan, the film is an official Hindi remake of the Tamil hit Love Today (2022). “In September, the makers had announced the release date,” says a source close to Boney Kapoor’s production team. “Keeping the film’s theme of young romance in mind, they want to stick to the February window.” Producers Consider Options to Avoid Box-Office Clash With both films catering to a young audience and capitalizing on Valentine’s Day, a back-to-back release could impact each film’s box-office performance. However, the release dates may still change as both production teams look to avoid direct competition. According to a source, “Aamir is currently promoting Laapataa Ladies in the U.S. for the Oscars but plans to meet with the producers of the Love Today remake later this month. An announcement of new dates is expected by December.”

If no adjustments are made, Junaid Khan could see two of his films releasing just a week apart. 

Also Read: Aamir Khan speaks on almost quitting acting after Laal Singh Chaddha debacle, reveals son Junaid Khan changed his mind: “I was going from one extreme to another”

Rohit Shetty reveals Salman Khan's Chulbul Pandey won't join Singham’s cop universe: “It will be two IPs and two universes meeting for one individual film”

Rohit Shetty discussed bringing together two iconic characters, Chulbul Pandey and Bajirao Singham, explaining that they come from different worlds. In an interview with India Today Digital, he noted that their collaboration would create a distinct film, separate from his existing cop universe.

Rohit Shetty said, “We were creating our own characters, and they were coming into each other’s stories. That’s how we created a universe. But these are two IPs (intellectual properties) that have never met. If all goes well, and the audience likes what we make...This has never been done before, and it’s something new for everyone. Also, Chulbul is not in the universe, nor is Singham going there. It will be two IPs and two universes meeting for one individual film.”

Rohit Shetty also mentioned that it would take time for the film to go on floors. He added, “This will be a standalone film, not where everyone comes together. It will definitely take a lot of time to make.”

Salman Khan made a brief appearance in the post-credits scene of Singham Again, delivering his iconic line, “Swagat nahi karoge humara?” The scene then teased the upcoming film Mission Chulbul Singham, leaving many fans disappointed by the blink-and-miss cameo.

Explaining the creative decision behind Salman Khan's cameo, Rohit Shetty said, “We followed the international format where, at the end, you see a photo or a phone call. The story had already concluded, and adding Salman just because we have him... We couldn't waste him like that. It's better to have him in a small appearance rather than a full-fledged sequence, where people think, ‘Why him, zarurat nahi thi (it wasn’t needed)?’ That would have gone majorly wrong.”

Shetty also revealed that he had been toying with the idea for many years and, when he reached out to Salman Khan, the actor immediately agreed to be a part of the film.

Also Read : EXCLUSIVE: Singham Again writer Kshitij Patwardhan on Singham being less angry this time, “His anger is subdued because…”

Kartik Aaryan praises Sonu Nigam’s voice as the magic behind Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 climax

Kartik Aaryan recently shared a heartfelt post dedicated to Sonu Nigam, crediting him for the powerful climax sequence of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. Kartik praised Sonu’s soulful singing in the film. In response, Sonu described Kartik as a "secured soul" and praised his versatility as an actor.

Kartik Aaryan shared a photo of himself embracing Sonu Nigam and expressed his admiration for the singer, who performed ‘Mere Dholna 3.0.’ In his caption, Kartik wrote, “The Entire Climax that everyone has been raving about was a combination of many forces coming together.. out of which a Big Big credit goes to @sonunigamofficial sir and his heart wrenching voice…I may have performed in front of the camera but it was his voice that CREATED THE HEART TOUCHING MAGIC…(heart emojis)…#BhoolBhulaiyaa3 In Theatres…(Call me and heart emojis).”

 

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Sonu Nigam responded to Kartik's post, commenting, “It takes a very very secured and loving soul to share credits.. Only goes on to show how gracious you are my dear Kartik.. Love you.. So happy to see so much love being showered upon you. What you have done in Bhool Bhullaiyya 3 is a mark of a very intelligent and deep actor. From comedy to tragedy in one film.... Marvellous. Thank you so much for your love..(smiling emojis).”

Reacting to Kartik’s post, singer Harshdeep Kaur commented, “Thank you for crediting the Artist! shows how much you respect their work!” One fan wrote, “This duo made me cry in the climax.” Another fan shared, “The climax was beautiful, but @sonunigamofficial sir’s voice took it to the next level!” A user also commented, “The climax was enough to make even grown-ups cry.”

Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, directed by Anees Bazmee, stars Triptii Dimri, Vidya Balan, Madhuri Dixit, Rajpal Yadav, Vijay Raaz, and others in key roles. The horror-comedy hit theaters on November 1.

Also Read : Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 Box Office: Kartik Aaryan starrer continues its good run on weekdays

Akshay Kumar starrer Sky Force set for Republic Day weekend release; trailer to drop on Christmas

Sky Force, starring Akshay Kumar and produced by Dinesh Vijan and Jio Studios, is gearing up for a big Republic Day weekend release in 2025. Directed by Sandeep Kelwani and Abhishek Kapur, the action-packed film will also feature Sara Ali Khan and Nimrat Kaur. A special treat awaits fans on Christmas 2024, as the trailer for Sky Force is scheduled to launch that day, promising an early glimpse into one of the most anticipated films of the year.

This high-octane release will introduce a newcomer, Veer, to the silver screen, marking his debut alongside Kumar. The collaboration between Jio Studios and Maddock Films highlights a shared focus on cinematic spectacles that appeal to audiences across generations. Dinesh Vijan and Amar Kaushik’s Mahavatar Featuring Vicky Kaushal to Arrive Christmas 2026 Hours before the Sky Force announcement, another major project from Maddock Films was revealed. Producer Dinesh Vijan and director Amar Kaushik, fresh off the success of Stree 2, will reunite to bring the epic tale of Chiranjeevi Parashurama to life in Mahavatar, starring Vicky Kaushal. Slated for a Christmas 2026 release, Mahavatar will explore the legendary figure of Parashurama, with Kaushal embodying the titular role.

This marks Vicky Kaushal’s third collaboration with Vijan, following Zara Hatke Zara Bachke and the upcoming Chhaava. With a screenplay by Niren Bhatt, Mahavatar aims to blend mythological grandeur with contemporary storytelling, a trend Kaushik has successfully established in his previous works.

Both Sky Force and Mahavatar signal Maddock Films’ ambitions to diversify its offerings, tapping into historical narratives and high-octane action while collaborating with leading talent. With these back-to-back announcements, Dinesh Vijan and Jio Studios are poised to dominate the release schedules of 2025 and 2026, giving audiences plenty to look forward to in the coming years.

Also Read: Akshay Kumar receives heartfelt birthday wish from Sky Force director Abhishek Anil Kapur: “Thank you for keeping that hand on my shoulder…”

Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao change title of Laapataa Ladies to Lost Ladies for Oscars 2025 campaign

Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao are going all out with their campaign for the Oscars 2025 for their film Laapataa Ladies, which was released earlier this year and is India’s official submission. Ahead of the campaign, they have decided to change the film's title, likely to enhance its recall value internationally.

Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao, through Aamir’s production house’s Instagram account, revealed that they have changed the title of Laapataa Ladies to Lost Ladies to boost the film’s global appeal. The announcement came with a new poster, accompanied by the caption, “The wait is over! Presenting the official poster for Lost Ladies—a glimpse into the wild, heartfelt journey of Phool and Jaya! Huge shoutout to @jahansinghbakshi and @apertureanecdotes for bringing our story to life with this stunning design. Get ready to be swept away!”

 

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A special screening of Lost Ladies (formerly Laapataa Ladies) was hosted by chef Vikas Khanna in New York. On Tuesday, he shared the news on social media, offering a glimpse of the event. He wrote, “Jab dil se Dua atti hai, ‘Jeet lo duniya’. This is exactly what I felt yesterday when we were hosting Oscar Campaigning event of Lost Ladies (Laapataa Ladies) at Bungalow. Kiran you are a true artist to create such an iconic film.”

He continued, “Aamir Sir, you are the KINDEST. The way you engaged & loved & respected Mysha was everything to me. Jyoti your genuineness & everygy to support South Asian Arts is inspiring. Your journey defines an Indian value system of ‘always there for you like a family’. Prabal you are an inspiration to millions. You lift so many of us as you rise. Shine forever.”

Also Read : Aamir Khan calls Sitaare Zameen Par a ‘spiritual successor’ to Taare Zameen Par; says, “It’s a humorous film”