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Showing posts from August, 2025

SCOOP: Janhvi Kapoor in talks to lead Sridevi's Chaalbaaz remake

Janhvi Kapoor is presently in the news for her performance in Param Sundari with Sidharth Malhotra. The actress has also created waves with the teaser of Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsikumari co-starring Varun Dhawan. And now, Bollywood Hungama has got another exciting update on Janhvi Kapoor. If our sources are to be believed, Janhvi Kapoor is all set to step into the shoes of her mother. A reliable insider informs us that a leading producer has offered the official remake of Chaalbaaz to Janhvi Kapoor. "For Janhvi, Chaalbaaz is a lot more than just a film. It's an emotion. She has jumped onto the chance of playing the lead role in Chaalbaaz, but is treading this with utmost caution," a source told Bollywood Hungama. The source also informed us that Janhvi doesn't want to just cash in on her mother's legacy. "She is taking opinions from people around for the Chaalbaaz remake. She is excited, but is also wary of all the comparisons. She is expected to take a call o...

Mumbai’s Famous Studios to be demolished for a 69-Storey luxury tower marking the end of an era

Another slice of Mumbai’s cinematic legacy is set to disappear. Famous Studios, the 79-year-old film hub in Mahalaxmi that once echoed with lights, cameras, and action, will soon be razed to make room for a glitzy residential skyscraper. The studio, founded in 1943 by J. B. Roongta, has been a part of Bollywood’s history for nearly eight decades, offering state-of-the-art facilities for shooting, sound recording, and post-production. From iconic films to ad shoots, countless projects passed through its gates, making it a landmark in the city’s creative ecosystem. But the curtains are finally coming down. Reports suggest that the landowners themselves will be sealing the deal and currently quite keen on partnering with K Raheja Corp Real Estate. It has been learnt that they have finalized plans to redevelop the 70,000 sq ft plot into a high-rise residential tower. According to layouts submitted to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, the new project will rise 69 floors above Mahala...

Sachet-Parampara win legal battle over ‘Raanjhan’; copyright allegations by KMKZ rejected

The music duo Sachet-Parampara have successfully defended their chart-topping song ‘Raanjhan’ against recent copyright allegations made by foreign musician KMKZ. The claims, which alleged that the track was copied, were reviewed by multiple major streaming platforms and found to be entirely baseless. Before the song’s public release, all project files for ‘Raanjhan’ had been submitted to streaming services for verification. After careful evaluation, platforms including YouTube and Spotify confirmed that Sachet-Parampara were the rightful creators, rejecting KMKZ’s copyright claims. In response to the incident, Sachet-Parampara have filed a defamation case against KMKZ, citing the allegations as false and damaging to their professional reputation. The duo emphasized that the musical composition of ‘Raanjhan’ is based on a standard F# major chord progression—including F#5, F#5 major 7, B sus 2, E flat minor, D flat, and E flat minor—which is commonly used in numerous original works acr...

EXCLUSIVE: The Bengal Files is 1 minute longer than Animal; CBFC censors 'contemptuous' words against transgenders; makers voluntarily remove Gopal Mukhopadhyay's mention in several scenes

After delivering films like The Tashkent Files (2019), The Kashmir Files (2022) and The Vaccine War (2023), director Vivek Agnihotri is back with another hard hitting film, The Bengal Files. The makers of the film secured the censor certificate in advance and Bollywood Hungama, in this article, would exclusively focus on the same. To begin with, the film wasn't passed by the Examining Committee of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The Bengal Files was referred to the Reviving Committee (RC) presumably due to its content. The RC passed the film but asked for some changes. The RC asked the makers to remove 'contemptuous' words against the transgender community and replace them with appropriate terms. Similarly, the pictures of prominent personalities were removed and replaced. As per the directive of the RC, the makers submitted supporting documents for the historical events depicted in the film. The makers also provided consent letters from the parents of the...

Pati Patni Aur Woh 2: AICWA condemns attack on the crew of Ayushmann Khurrana, Sara Ali Khan starrer in Prayagraj

Bollywood stars Ayushmann Khurrana and Sara Ali Khan faced a shocking ordeal along with the entire team of Pati Patni Aur Woh 2 during the shoot of this upcoming romantic comedy in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. According to recent reports, local miscreants attacked members of the film crew in broad daylight, exposing glaring lapses in security arrangements for film productions in the state. And now, All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has issued a press statement calling out this kind of behaviour. The incident, captured in videos that surfaced on social media over the past two days, shows the crew being assaulted while shooting on location. AICWA’s statement strongly condemned the attack, questioning how filmmakers, actors, and technicians can risk their lives in an environment where law and order are evidently compromised. The association said, “If the Uttar Pradesh Government cannot provide safety and security to those engaged in film production, then what is the purpose of pro...

Do You Wanna Partner Trailer: Tamannaah Bhatia, Diana Penty enter into a ‘tipsy’ partnership; Nakuul Mehta, Shweta Tiwari will leave you surprised

Prime Video has unveiled the trailer of its upcoming Hindi original comedy drama series Do You Wanna Partner, starring Tamannaah Bhatia and Diana Penty in lead roles. The show, produced by Dharmatic Entertainment, will premiere on September 12 in India and across 240 countries and territories worldwide. Backed by Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, and Apoorva Mehta as producers, with Somen Mishra and Archit Kumar as executive producers, the series is directed by Archit Kumar and Collin D'Cunha. The script comes from Nandini Gupta, Aarsh Vora, and Mithun Gangopadhyay, with Gangopadhyay and Nishant Nayak as creators. The ensemble cast also includes Jaaved Jaaferi, Nakuul Mehta, Shweta Tiwari, Neeraj Kabi, Sufi Motiwala, and Rannvijay Singha. The trailer sets the tone with a quirky, high-energy look into the lives of best friends Shikha (Tamannaah Bhatia) and Anahita (Diana Penty). Determined to break into the start-up space, the duo launch their own craft beer brand, only to find themse...

Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari Teaser: Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor promise a full-on Dharma blockbuster

The big-screen spectacle of Dharma Productions is back, and it arrives with a bang this Dussehra! The much-awaited teaser of Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari has finally dropped, setting the stage for what promises to be the grand festive entertainer of 2025. Slated for release on October 2, the film is already being hailed as the quintessential Dharma experience, filled with vibrant emotions, high-voltage drama, and all the elements that define Bollywood masala at its finest. The teaser opens with dazzling visuals and a colorful swirl of music, dance, and romance, capturing the unmistakable Dharma Productions vibe. Audiences are treated to glimpses of Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor’s playful chemistry, Sanya Malhotra and Rohit Saraf’s intriguing screen presence, and the comedic punches delivered by Varun himself. The promise is clear — this is not just a love story, but a rollercoaster ride of laughter, lies, and larger-than-life celebrations. Directed by Shashank Khaitan, Sunny Sansk...

Ayushmann Khurrana–Sara Ali Khan film set experiences chaos: Pati Patni Aur Woh 2 shoot turns ugly in Prayagraj

The much-awaited romantic comedy Pati Patni Aur Woh 2, starring Ayushmann Khurrana and Sara Ali Khan, has found itself in the middle of an unexpected storm. The film, which brings the two actors together for the first time on screen, is currently being shot in Prayagraj (formerly known as Allahabad). However, what was supposed to be a smooth schedule recently took a turbulent turn when the production team faced major resistance from the locals. According to eyewitness accounts, tensions between the crew and some locals escalated during filming, eventually spiralling into a physical confrontation. Reports suggest that certain members of the crew were allegedly beaten up by agitated locals, creating panic on the set. The exact cause of the rift remains unclear, but the situation has raised concerns about security arrangements during high-profile shoots in crowded public spaces. Fight During Shooting of Pati Patni aur Wo 2 byu/bollyfanboi inBollyBlindsNGossip Even as this controversy br...

First look of Dhurandhar to hit the big screen tomorrow

Jio Studios and B62 Studio’s highly anticipated film Dhurandhar is ready to roar onto the big screen with its first look. The 2-minute 42-second cut, certified U/A 16+ by the CBFC, was recently unveiled digitally and will also be attached to Param Sundari, hitting cinemas tomorrow. Directed by National Award-winner Aditya Dhar, the epic drama is slated for a grand theatrical release on 5 December 2025. First unveiled on Ranveer Singh’s birthday earlier this year, the digital debut of Dhurandhar’s first look created a storm online — crossing 53 million views on YouTube and 200 million+ views across platforms within just six days. Lauded for its raw, gritty tone and the striking presence of its ensemble cast, the teaser has already set the stage for a massive theatrical experience. With its big-screen rollout tomorrow, anticipation for the film is poised to soar even higher. Featuring a powerhouse ensemble Ranveer Singh, Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna, R. Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, and Sara ...

EXCLUSIVE: Poster of The Kerala Story actress Adah Sharma’s Haatak revealed: “I am so glad that filmmakers are seeing me in diverse characters”

The makers of Haatak have dropped the powerful first poster of the crime thriller, and it’s already grabbing attention. The poster features Adah Sharma in an intense avatar as Shivranjani Acharya. She is seen in a striking look — donning a trench coat, suit, and cap and armed with a gun — symbolizing the film’s raw and intense tone. With the tagline “One Heist, No Mercy”, the makers are clearly hinting at a gripping narrative filled with action and suspense. Adah Sharma said, “I’m very excited to be working on Haatak. Ajay sir is a renowned ad filmmaker and this film marks his debut. When I read the script and he explained his vision with such clarity, I was on! I'm also glad that after The Kerala Story, Sunflower 2 and Reeta Sanyal, filmmakers are seeing me in diverse characters.” Directed and written by debutant filmmaker Ajay K Sharmaa, who has earlier made his mark in the ad world, Haatak is produced by 8 Pictures. The film, inspired by true events, promises a raw and hard-hi...

Govinda’s wife Sunita Ahuja denies divorce rumours; says, “Rumours pe believe na karein”

Bollywood actor Govinda and his wife, Sunita Ahuja, have addressed recent speculation about their marriage, firmly denying any rift between them.  The couple appeared united during the Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations at their residence, putting to rest rumours suggesting a possible divorce. In a candid interaction with the Viral Bhayani, Sunita expressed her unwavering commitment to her husband, stating, “Aaj toh humko sath dekhne ke baad sharam karo bhaiii bolne ke liye yeh baat. Itna close jo hum khade the, ek dusre the sath aisa lagta bhi hai kya hum alag honge, kabhi nahi. Jab tak hum moonh na khole tab tak aap please rumours pe believe na karein, aap log koi bhi cheez mein na boliye.” The couple's son, Yashvardhan Ahuja, also joined them during the festivities, and the family was seen distributing sweets to the paparazzi gathered outside their home.  Govinda wore a red kurta, while Sunita donned a purple saree, radiating warmth and unity. Earlier, Govinda's manager, Shas...

EXCLUSIVE: Trailer of Aabeer Gulaal to release on August 28 at 1 PM; Fawad Khan-Vaani Kapoor starrer to release worldwide, excluding India, on September 12

Today, that is, Thursday, August 28, the much awaited trailer of Aabeer Gulaal, will be unveiled at 1:00 pm IST. Starring the irresistible Fawad Khan and the radiant Vaani Kapoor, the film releases worldwide (except India) on September 12, 2025. From the very first frame, the trailer brims with joy, energy, and serendipity. It teases the playful yet profound journey of Aabeer (Fawad Khan) and Gulaal (Vaani Kapoor) — a “situationship, friendship, relationship” that blossoms in the most unexpected of ways. Aabeer Gulaal is more than a romance — it’s a fiery celebration of second chances, unspoken connections, and the courage to make space for love. Messy, inconvenient, Magical — love arrives unannounced, and the trailer captures that truth with irresistible charm. We meet the irresistibly charming Aabeer at a food contest, only to be swept into Gulaal’s spirited world of culinary flair and dance-floor fire. Her knack for landing in sticky situations collides with Aabeer’s reluctant ye...

Papa Kehte Hain star Mayoori Kango is now leading Publicis Groupe in India

Remember Mayoori Kango, the girl-next-door who made her big Bollywood debut in Papa Kehte Hain (1996) opposite Jugal Hansraj? While her filmi career was short-lived, she’s now making waves in an entirely different world. The actress-turned-professional has rejoined Publicis Groupe in a high-profile role, proving that her journey took a very unexpected turn after Bollywood. According to her latest LinkedIn update, Mayoori is now part of the global executive leadership team for Publicis Global Delivery (PGD) and has also been named CEO of the company’s India Delivery Center. Quite the leap from silver screen ingénue to corporate head honcho. Announcing her big career move, she wrote, “I'm delighted to share that I've rejoined Publicis Groupe as part of the global executive leadership team for #Publicis Global Delivery (PGD). In this role, I'll be partnering with the PGD Global team to shape our global solutions and services across media, tech, and digital — while also stepp...

Saif Ali Khan becomes the royal face of JK Masale in new campaign celebrating legacy and taste

Bollywood’s stylish Nawab, Saif Ali Khan, is bringing his royal charm to your kitchen! The actor has just been announced as the brand ambassador of JK Spices & Food Products, popularly known as JK Masale — a household name trusted by Indians for over 67 years. The collaboration feels like a match made in heaven. On one side, Saif Ali Khan with his royal Pataudi lineage, effortless sophistication, and star power spanning decades. On the other, JK Masale, a brand that has seasoned Indian kitchens with authenticity, purity, and legacy since 1958. Together, they promise to spice things up in more ways than one, revealed the brand. Talking about why Saif was the perfect fit, the brand shared a statement saying, “In Saif Ali Khan, we see a reflection of our own journey. His royal lineage, refined persona, and the trust he commands make him a natural fit for a brand like ours. This partnership goes beyond endorsement – it is a union of legacies, where tradition and modern taste come tog...

Madras HC steps in as Boney Kapoor battles fresh ownership claims over Sridevi’s 1988 ECR property

The Madras High Court has stepped into a fresh legal battle involving late Bollywood icon Sridevi’s property on Chennai’s East Coast Road (ECR), directing the Tambaram tahsildar to make a clear decision within four weeks. The case was brought forward by film producer Boney Kapoor, who has accused three individuals of fraudulently staking ownership over land his wife had purchased back in 1988. Justice N. Anand Venkatesh, who presided over the matter, issued the directive after hearing Kapoor’s plea to cancel a legal heirship certificate obtained by the claimants in 2005. According to Kapoor, the document was wrongly issued in their favour and is now being used to assert rights over Sridevi’s farmhouse property. The contested land has deep roots, tracing back to its original owner, M.C. Sambanda Mudaliar. His family had divided the property among three sons and two daughters through a mutual arrangement in 1960. Relying on this arrangement, Sridevi lawfully purchased the land on April...

Inspector Zende Trailer: Netflix promises a showdown between Manoj Bajpayee and Jim Sarbh in a high-stakes cat-and-mouse chase

Netflix has unveiled the trailer of its upcoming film Inspector Zende, set to stream exclusively on the platform from September 5. Written and directed by Chinmay Mandlekar and produced by Jay Shewakramani and Om Raut, the film is loosely inspired by the real-life story of Inspector Madhukar Zende, a street-smart Mumbai cop who became a legend for capturing the notorious “Swimsuit Killer,” Carl Bhojraj — not once, but twice. Set in an era before CCTV surveillance and digital forensics, Inspector Zende traces the relentless pursuit of a cop who relied on instinct, resourcefulness, and teamwork to bring down one of the city’s most elusive criminals. The film stars Manoj Bajpayee in the titular role, with Jim Sarbh portraying Carl Bhojraj. The supporting cast includes Sachin Khedekar, Bhalchandra Kadam, Harish Dudhade, Onkar Raut, Bharat Savale, and Nitin Bhajan as part of Zende’s trusted team. Girija Oak and Vaibhav Mangale also appear in key roles. The trailer teases a mix of quirky c...

Tina Ahuja breaks silence on Govinda-Sunita divorce buzz: “It’s all rumours”

Bollywood actor Tina Ahuja has finally responded to the persistent rumours surrounding her parents, Govinda and Sunita Ahuja, and their alleged divorce. In an interview with Hindustan Times, Tina dismissed the reports outright, calling them baseless and untrue. “It’s all rumours. I don’t pay attention to these rumours,” Tina said firmly. She further added, “I feel blessed to have a beautiful family, and I’m truly grateful for all the love, concern and support we’ve been receiving from the media, fans, and loved ones.” The clarification comes after weeks of speculation that began when Sunita Ahuja shared an emotional vlog online. The video sparked chatter about potential trouble in the couple’s marriage. This was followed by claims that Govinda and Sunita were living separately, and further fuel was added when some reports suggested that Tina herself had filed for divorce at the Family Court in Mumbai. Adding to the confusion, Govinda’s manager had earlier told media outlets that a d...

Bigg Boss 19 Contestants Revealed: From Amaal Malik to Gaurav Khanna, here’s who entered the house this season

The much-awaited Bigg Boss 19 premiered on Monday evening, August 24, with 16 diverse contestants stepping into the iconic house. Staying true to its tradition of mixing glamour, controversy, and talent, this year’s lineup features television heartthrobs, social media stars, models, actors, and even a celebrated musician. Leading the list is Ashnoor Kaur, who recently made headlines with a nostalgic reel from Saath Nibhana Saathiya. Joining her is Gaurav Khanna, the much-loved Anuj from Anupamaa, bringing his massive TV fan base into the show. Popular faces like Basheer Ali (Kundali Bhagya) and Abhishek Bajaj (Student of The Year 2, Babli Bouncer) add more television and film charisma to the house.   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by ColorsTV (@colorstv)   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by ColorsTV (@colorstv)   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by ColorsTV (@colorstv)   View this post on Instagram ...

Manish Malhotra to reveal first glimpse of Gustaakh Ishq on Monday, film set for November release

Fashion designer Manish Malhotra will unveil the first glimpse of Gustaakh Ishq on Monday. Marking his debut as a film producer under Stage 5 Production, he announced the update on social media and also confirmed that the film will release in November. A part of his note read, “Since childhood, I’ve lived with a deep Ishq for cinema. The magic of the stories, the glow of the big screen and the emotions that stay long after the credits roll.” He added, “That love has shaped who I am, and today, it gives me the greatest joy to share a dream come true. This November, 2025, my first film as a producer, Gustaakh Ishq - Kuch Pehle Jaisa will release in theatres. A film born out of passion, poetry and a celebration of love in all it’s forms.”   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Manish Malhotra (@manishmalhotra05) Another part of it read, “This Monday, I will be sharing with you, the very first glimpse into the poetic world of Gustaakh Ishq. This journey is special,...

Regena Cassandrra wraps first schedule of Madhur Bhandarkar’s The Wives in Mumbai

Regena Cassandrra, the leading lady of Madhur Bhandarkar’s upcoming mystery thriller The Wives, has successfully wrapped the first schedule of the film’s shoot in Mumbai. The actress recently hinted at the schedule wrap on social media, sharing a candid behind-the-scenes picture from the set, dressed in a sleek black outfit while holding a clapperboard that read ‘The Wives'. The Wives aims to dive deep into the glamorous yet turbulent world of Bollywood star wives, peeling back the curtain on their hidden realities, high-profile scandals, and the extravagant lifestyles they lead. Joining Regena in this intriguing ensemble cast are Mouni Roy, Sonali Kulkarni, and other notable names, making the project one of the most anticipated in Bhandarkar’s filmography. Known for his sharp and concept-driven storytelling, Madhur Bhandarkar once again is expected to bring his signature touch to The Wives, blending drama, suspense, and realism into a compelling narrative. With the first schedul...

Akshay Kumar, Saif Ali Khan reunite after 18 years for Priyadarshan’s Haiwaan

Bollywood heavyweights Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan have officially begun filming for their much-anticipated collaboration with veteran director Priyadarshan, marking a reunion after nearly two decades. Production for the Hindi thriller Haiwaan officially kicked off today in Kochi, Kerala. Akshay Kumar shared a behind-the-scenes video from the set, teasing his co-star and director and capturing fans’ attention with a playful exchange. In the video, Akshay is seen holding a clapperboard while wearing a T-shirt inscribed “Saint.” Priyadarshan jokingly insists he should instead wear “Haiwaan.” Akshay responds, “For all you know, he (Saif) must be the devil. This devil you know about and this devil you don’t know about.”   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Jolly Mishra - Asli Jolly from Kanpur (@akshaykumar) Accompanying the clip, Akshay wrote, “Hum sab hi hain thode se shaitaan… Koi upar se Saint, koi andar se Haiwaan. Starting the shoot for #Haiwaan today wit...

Screen Awards 2025 goes digital: Iconic celebration premieres on YouTube

The Indian Express Group is proud to unveil a bold reimagining of Screen Awards 2025 on YouTube, one of India’s most iconic celebrations, of cinema and storytelling. The Screen Awards 2025 is more than just an awards show. Combining editorial credibility, cultural legacy, and digital reach, it reflects the Indian Express Group’s journalism-first ethos. Winners are selected by the Screen Academy, an independent, not-for-profit body of respected filmmakers, artists, and cultural voices dedicated to honouring true excellence. Anant Goenka, Executive Director of the Indian Express Group said, “Indian cinema deserves a stage that celebrates creativity beyond collections. Our storytellers carry 1.4 billion dreams — rooted in tradition and racing toward an exciting future. This award will honour that spirit and spotlight India’s boldest, most original voices. We’re thrilled YouTube shares our enthusiasm for this endeavour." Taking a digital-first approach to content and format, the Sc...

SCOOP: Star kid vs Star kid - Agastya Nanda-starrer Ikkis postponed; to clash with Junaid Khan's Ek Din on November 7

Sriram Raghavan is one of the most celebrated filmmakers of our industry. Hence, his next film Ikkis is much awaited. It stars Agastya Nanda and this will be his first theatrical film and second film as an actor after the 2023 Netflix original, The Archies. It is scheduled to be released on October 2 and Bollywood Hungama has learned that the film has been postponed. A source told Bollywood Hungama, "Ikkis will now release on November 7. The decision was taken by producer Dinesh Vijan of Maddock Films who felt that the first week of November and post-Diwali time will be ideal for their movie." An industry insider commented, "This is a good move as two major films are scheduled for a release on October 2 - Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari and Kantara: A Legend - Chapter 1. November 7 is a better date in that regard." Ikkis also stars Dharmendra and Jaideep Ahlawat. It is against the backdrop of the 1971 war and follows the life of second Lieutenant Arun Khetrapal. A...

Shahid Kapoor, Triptii Dimri to conclude shoot of Vishal Bhardwaj’s Romeo in Malaga by August 25: Report

The much-anticipated action thriller Romeo, directed by Vishal Bhardwaj and headlined by Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri, is nearing the end of its shoot, with principal photography set to conclude by August 25. According to Mid-Day, the final schedule is currently underway in Malaga, Spain. Over the next ten days, the team will complete both a high-octane action sequence and an exuberant dance number before wrapping up filming. Once filming wraps on August 25, Bhardwaj will move swiftly into post-production. Initial VFX and editing processes have already begun in Mumbai, keeping the film on track for its scheduled theatrical release on December 5, 2025. Adding to the excitement, this project marks the fourth time Shahid Kapoor has collaborated with Vishal Bhardwaj, following Kaminey (2009), Haider (2014), and Rangoon (2017). The combination of high-octane thrills, melodic storytelling, and creative synergy continues to raise fans’ expectations. The star-studded cast includes Tript...

Bengali superstar Victor Banerjee appeals to the President of India for a smooth release of The Bengal Files in West Bengal

Victor Banerjee has started a petition campaign for the smooth release of Vivek Agnihotri’s The Bengal Files in West Bengal. Said Vivek, “As you may already know, the film The Bengal Files is scheduled for screening on September 5, 2025. This film represents a courageous first attempt to bring to light a dark and painful chapter in the history of Bengal and India. However, in a deeply concerning development, the trailer of the film was illegally and forcibly stopped during its launch event in Kolkata.” Victor reiterated his misgivings regarding the controversial film’s release in his home territory. “We have every reason to believe that the upcoming screening of the film in West Bengal may also face deliberate obstruction or suppression. Such actions not only violate the freedom of artistic expression but also deny citizens their constitutional right to truth and free thought. We are therefore making an urgent appeal to the Honorable President of Bharat to ensure that the screening i...

SHOCKING: Imran Khan recalls the time when his script was PLAGIARIZED: "I was powerless; they didn't know about my family; to them, I was just a kid off the street"

A big fear that plagues scriptwriters in our industry is that someone might plagiarize their script. Believe it or not, Imran Khan also went through a similar turmoil way back in 2005. The actor spoke about it in detail in an interview with Planet Bollywood. Imran Khan began by saying, “The incident about me taking a script to a channel and it getting stolen happened in early 2005. In the aftermath of that, I found I was completely powerless and could not catch hold of the guys who did this to me. I had gone into this meeting. It had been set up through contacts. These people had no context of my family relationships or background. To them, I was just a kid off the street. That is why they felt comfortable enough to lift my script. I was helpless and could not hold them accountable. I was very upset about it. If I had some name or recognition of my own, they might not have done this. To what extent that is true is a debatable point. I was 22 at that point.” Imran Khan further said, “...

EXCLUSIVE: Rowdy Rathore 2 scrapped after 3 years; script now being reworked into a standalone original film

‘Rowdy Rathore 2’ seems not to be happening anymore. Industry sources have exclusively informed us that producers Shabinaa Khan and Sanjay Leela Bhansali have scrapped the much-awaited sequel after three years of persistent but fruitless efforts to develop it. And the script intended for the sequel will now be used to make a standalone original film. Disney India, which owns the intellectual property rights to the original Rowdy Rathore (2012) along with Sanjay Leela Bhansali after its acquisition of Ronnie Screwvala’s UTV Motion Pictures, has reportedly been hesitant to greenlight the sequel despite initial discussions. “With Disney unwilling to commit, Shabinaa Khan and Sanjay Leela Bhansali have decided to scrap the idea of Rowdy Rathore 2 altogether and repurpose the script into a standalone commercial entertainer, free from the Rowdy Rathore tag,” a source exclusively told Bollywood Hungama. The script, penned by veteran screenplay writer V. Vijayendra Prasad, is now undergoing ...

Alia Bhatt’s NCB campaign video faces online backlash

Alia Bhatt recently appeared in a campaign video released by the Chandigarh division of the Narcotics Control Bureau. What was meant to be a strong awareness message soon turned into controversy online, drawing sharp reactions from many users. The criticism eventually forced the agency to turn off comments on the post, but the video still remained the talk of social media, with many continuing to share and react to it in different ways. The clip was shared on NCB’s official X account, where Alia urged people to stand against drugs and support the bureau’s mission. Within hours of being posted, the video gained traction and went viral, crossing 1.1 million views and being shared more than 680 times. The caption on the post read, "Alia Bhatt joins hands with NCB to spread the message of a #DrugsFreeBharat #NashaMuktBharat #azadifromdrugs". In the video, Alia addressed the issue of drug addiction, calling it a growing threat to individuals, society, and the nation. She asked p...

Neena Gupta hits back at troll over wearing shorts at the airport: “Shorts wali desi girl”

Veteran actor Neena Gupta, celebrated for her candid demeanour and bold fashion choices, recently responded with grace and wit to a troll’s body-shaming comment after she posted a video from the airport. In the clip, Gupta shared how she carries homemade snacks during long airport waits—specifically, roti rolls packed in a tiffin filled with potatoes, chillies, paneer, onions, and other ingredients—with the caption: “Shorts wali desi girl.” The video, featuring the actor dressed in a casual black outfit and shorts and speaking directly to the camera in the airport lounge, earned a mixed reaction from viewers. One commenter wrote, “Very good ...only request dont show your legs ,they are not well toned ...we have never seen dadi mummy showing their legs this way ...ageing gracefully is excellent.”   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Neena Gupta (@neena_gupta) Unfazed by the criticism, Gupta fired back with characteristic confidence and candor, “Don’t worry. The...

Dhurandhar crew health update: Authorities confirm chicken contamination behind Leh incident

Several crew members on the sets of Dhurandhar, the highly anticipated Ranveer Singh-starrer, recently fell ill during filming in Leh, prompting immediate medical attention. Initial reports speculated that poor food quality or cost-cutting measures on set might have caused the incident, but local authorities have now clarified that the matter was part of a wider chicken contamination issue reported across Leh, unrelated to the facilities or food provided by the film’s production. A source associated with the project stressed, "This is one of the biggest films in production right now. Why would there be any need for cost cutting at all? Leh is an incredibly difficult terrain to shoot. This is a unit of over 300 people. There was a local contamination issue which led to this. It is horrible that such ridiculous rumours are floating." Insiders also highlighted that the safety and well-being of the crew have always been a top priority. “Health, hygiene, and crew safety have con...

Anurag Kashyap slams AI-made Lord Hanuman film, calls out producers: “You should be in the gutter”

On Tuesday, Abundantia Entertainment and Collective Media Network announced a new film on Lord Hanuman that is reportedly being made entirely with Artificial Intelligence (AI). The announcement quickly stirred up heated debates within the Indian film fraternity, with many filmmakers and artists voicing concerns over the lack of a humane touch in creativity. Among those who expressed strong displeasure was filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, known for his unfiltered opinions and acclaimed works like Gangs of Wasseypur. Taking to Instagram, Kashyap shared a long note sharply criticizing the production houses for this move and questioned the role of artist representation agencies in enabling such projects. Kashyap’s post read, “Congratulations @vijaysubramaniam84 . Here is the man heading the @lifeatcollectiveartistsnetwork that represents artists, writer, directors , now producing a film made by AI . So much for looking after and representing the interests of creators. End of the day , all these...

SCOOP: Mahesh Manjrekar approaches Sanjay Dutt to play the lead in Hindi remake of Juna Furniture

Mahesh Manjrekar and Sanjay Dutt once made for an envious director-actor jodi. Both collaborated for the first time on Vaastav (1999). The film turned out to be a cult and is considered to be one of the most accomplished performances of the actor. Later, Mahesh Manjrekar directed Sanjay Dutt in Kurukshetra (2000), Hathyar (2002), Pitaah (2002), Rakht (2004), Viruddh (2005) and Vaah Life Ho Toh Aisi (2005). If all goes well, both might join hands once again, after nearly two decades, for the remake of the acclaimed 2024 Marathi film, Juna Furniture. A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Mahesh Manjrekar directed Juna Furniture and he played the main lead. The film got a lot of critical acclaim for its message, subject and performances. Mahesh realized that it has the potential to touch the Hindi-speaking audiences as well. Hence, he has begun work on the scripting of the Hindi remake.” The source further said, “He has approached Sanjay Dutt as he feels that the veteran actor will do compl...

Veteran actor Achyut Potdar, known as the professor in 3 Idiots, passes away at 91

Veteran actor Achyut Potdar, best known for his memorable role as a college professor in the iconic film 3 Idiots, passed away on Monday in Thane, Maharashtra, at the age of 91. As per reports, the actor was admitted to Jupiter Hospital in Thane due to health complications. The exact cause of his death has not been revealed, but reports suggest he had been recently hospitalised due to age-related health issues. Before his acting career, Potdar had a distinguished journey in public service. He served as a captain in the Indian Army, later worked as a professor, and then took up a corporate role with Indian Oil Corporation, where he spent nearly 25 years before retiring in 1992. Remarkably, he entered Bollywood at the age of 44, where he went on to become one of the most recognizable character actors in Indian cinema. Over his career, Potdar appeared in more than 125 films and nearly 100 television serials. His dignified presence and versatile portrayals—often as professors, doctors, j...

REVEALED: Sanjay Leela Bhansali goes global; Love & War to be his first overseas shoot in 26 years after Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam

2026 is going to be exciting as some of the biggest films, featuring popular names, are scheduled for release. One of the highly awaited ones is Love & War. It is directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and features an envious star cast comprising Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal. Another factor that is enticing about this film is that its Bhansali’s first film in 26 years, which will be shot abroad. A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Sanjay Leela Bhansali is known for making grand and visually spectacular films. Yet, he hasn’t gone abroad for the same for his films like Devdas (2002), Black (2005), Saawariya (2007), Guzaarish (2010), Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-leela (2013), Bajirao Mastani (2015), Padmaavat (2018) and Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022). Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1998) was the last film for which he travelled abroad, to Hungary (depicted in the film as Italy), to shoot a crucial sequence of the second half.” The source continued, “But for Love & War, there’s a requir...

Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar shoot halted as over 100 crew members fall sick in Leh: Report

At least 120 crew members working on Ranveer Singh’s forthcoming film Dhurandhar have fallen ill due to suspected food poisoning during the shoot in Leh district of Ladakh, forcing the production to pause. The incident occurred on August 17 while filming at Pathar Sahib. “Over 100 workers of a Bollywood film crew were hospitalised in Leh after a suspected case of food poisoning late Sunday evening,” officials told Mid-Day. The affected individuals experienced severe symptoms such as intense abdominal pain, vomiting, and headaches soon after eating, prompting immediate medical attention at the Sajal Narbbu Memorial Hospital. Around 600 people were served the food that day, out of whom 120 fell ill and required hospitalization. There are rumours suggesting that a few individuals also suffered cardiac-related complications.” Food samples have been collected and sent for further analysis to pinpoint the root cause of the contamination. Meanwhile, the team has suspended shooting temporari...

Vivek Agnihotri warns of legal action if The Bengal Files release is blocked in West Bengal

Filmmaker Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri has warned that he will pursue legal recourse if the release of his film The Bengal Files is prohibited in West Bengal. This statement came during a press conference following the disruption of the film’s trailer launch in Kolkata. Scheduled to hit theatres on September 5, The Bengal Files delves into the Calcutta riots of August 16, 1946, triggered by the All-India Muslim League’s call for “Direct Action Day” . Vivek Agnihotri recounted the series of setbacks faced during the trailer launch: it was initially cancelled by a multiplex, then shifted to a hotel where the power suddenly went out, and police eventually intervened to inquire whether proper permissions had been obtained . “We will go by the Constitution. We will go legally. If they stop us, we will take the legal course. What can we do? We are common citizens like you… We will pray that sanity prevails and the state government does not do it,” said the director, directly challenging the Mam...

PVR Inox's popcorn power: Despite ticket sales dropping Rs. 316 cr, F&B spends rise 1.5%

Despite a sharper-than-expected decline in moviegoers during FY25, PVR Inox — India’s largest multiplex chain — managed to keep revenues afloat by leaning into its Food & Beverage (F&B) offerings, according to company filings and annual reports. The cinemas business faced headwinds from a fallout of the 2023 Hollywood strikes and a softer line-up of mainstream Indian films. Footfalls dropped significantly — ticket sales earnings plunged from Rs. 3,258 crore in FY24 to approximately Rs. 2,942 crore last year, accounting for a Rs. 316 crore fall. Admissions fell nearly 10%, shrinking from 15.14 crore to 13.69 crore overall. Yet the silver lining came from concessions. Not only did the average ticket price remain stable at Rs. 259, but the average spend per customer on F&B rose 1.5% — from Rs. 132 to Rs. 134. This helped F&B income decline at a lower rate of around Rs. 153 crore, compared to the sharper drop in ticketing revenue. Overall, cinema food revenues dropped from...

Karan Johar teases big comeback in 2026: “It almost feels like the onset of the 2.0 version of my life”

Filmmaker and producer Karan Johar recently shared an introspective note with fans, teasing his upcoming projects and giving a glimpse into his mindset ahead of 2026. The director, known for shaping some of Bollywood’s most iconic dramas, reflected on the past year, describing it as one of “internal revaluations, revelations and resolutions.” In his candid social media post, Johar wrote, “The Sun … the Sea…. The Clarity … The last year has been a year of internal revaluations, revelations and resolutions…. It almost feels like the onset of the 2.0 version of my life… where you value what you truly have and feel for and the rest you slowly dissolve into emotional oblivion… 2026 is the year I will be back on set.. a promise I have made to myself… because that is not only my happy space and place but also my only calling in life… to tell stories with all the prerequisites of good old fashioned Hindi cinema… it’s in my DNA so why run away from it …( or try to please a bunch of people I do...

Vivek Agnihotri faces FIR over alleged misrepresentation of Freedom Fighter Gopal Mukherjee in new film trailer

Vivek Agnihotri directorial The Bengal Files witnessed a fresh controversy as Shantanu Mukherjee, grandson of celebrated Bengali freedom fighter Gopal Mukherjee, filed a police complaint against the filmmaker. The grievance comes in response to the trailer of Agnihotri's upcoming political drama, unveiled on August 16, which coincides with the 80th anniversary of the "Great Calcutta Killings," also known as 'Direct Action Day.' According to Shantanu Mukherjee, the film inaccurately portrays his grandfather, calling him “Kashai” (meaning butcher) and “Patha” (meaning goat), terms he describes as deeply disrespectful. "My grandfather was an important figure in the freedom movement, working alongside prominent leaders, with his ideology aligned with Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. To label him in such derogatory terms is not only historically inaccurate but also offensive to our family and the community," Shantanu stated in a statement reported by India Today...

Vivek Agnihotri’s The Bengal Files trailer stopped in West Bengal; says, “Democracy is dead in Tagore and Vivekananda’s land”

On Saturday, the trailer launch of Vivek Agnihotri’s upcoming and much-debated film The Bengal Files, which depicts the 1946 Calcutta communal riots, was halted at a luxury hotel in Kolkata. The move was met with little surprise, given the sensitive subject matter and the expected backlash. The ruling All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal is known for its strong stance on protecting the state’s minority community. A senior Trinamool leader, who is also a veteran actor, told this writer on condition of anonymity, “It is unlikely Agnihotri’s film will be released in West Bengal. He has a reputation for being a troublemaker. The Kashmir Files stirred up disturbing anti-Muslim sentiments. That won’t be allowed to happen here.” Responding to the incident, Vivek Agnihotri took to social media, tweeting, “With anguish I inform you: Today West Bengal police, on orders of ‘top authorities’, illegally stopped the trailer of #TheBengalFiles. First theatres, now even a private hotel....