Indus Chronicles

Veteran artiste Raghubir Yadav’s Om Ka Hari recently released in theatres. While speaking about the film in an exclusive chat with Bollywood Hungama, he also touched upon the success of his long-running web show Panchayat, which has already had four seasons with the fifth one in the making.

Yadav said that he could instantly relate with Panchayat when he was offered the first season since he has lived in such a scenario closely. “I have stayed in a village where there was no school,” he said. “My nanaji (maternal uncle) then made a school over there. I studied there. I have seen sarpanch and everyone over there; it was a beautiful atmosphere. Over there, I didn’t feel anyone was like a villain. People used to go about their lives in their own ways. They picked others’ mistakes but never wished anything bad happens to anyone.”

It was also the language of the script that impressed Yadav. “It was beautifully written. The language of Panchayat is so real that it doesn’t appear caricature. If they had made it caricature-ish, it wouldn’t have been such fun. Because of this, families are watching this show together. Kids are amazed to see this era,” he said.

The team of Panchayat, as Yadav said, didn’t think much about the response before the release of the first season. When asked how sure they were about the show’s success, Yadav said, “It was around 55%. Definitely more than 50%. We hadn’t thought about it becoming a hit. We just felt that this is a very rare kind of a show. We realized that if we didn’t make it like a caricature comedy and be truthful to it without making it look like acting, then it can become impressive. We managed to do that. We kept that atmosphere alive and that’s why people started liking it.”

Yadav has played various characters in his decades long career. About his selection criteria over the years, he said, “It should be something I have never done before. It should challenge me. I don’t enjoy if I am able to do it easily. It should give me sleepless nights (laughs). Doobne mein maza aata hai mujhe.”

When asked how he looks back at his enormous journey, the veteran said, “I just kept on learning. I didn’t think about reaching any goal because once you achieve it, it’s the end for you. I just felt like learning and having fun with it.”

Created by The Viral Fever, Panchayat also stars Jitendra Kumar, Neena Gupta, Sanvikaa, Faisal Malik, Chandan Roy among others.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Raghubir Yadav on the personal reason for choosing Om Ka Hari, “I have stayed in UP, MP and Bihar villages and seen such conflicts”; also shares his simple yet effective role selection criteria

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!

Bigg Boss 20 contestant Kanika Mann received a special shoutout from Sidharth Malhotra during the latest Weekend Ka Vaar episode. The actor, who appeared on the show with Tamannaah Bhatia to promote their upcoming film The Vvaan: Force of the Forrest, spoke to the contestants and had a few words of appreciation for Kanika.

During his interaction with the housemates, Sidharth praised Kanika's personality and the way she has been conducting herself inside the Bigg Boss house. He referred to her as a “true alpha” and also revealed that his mother has been following her journey on the reality show.

The shoutout came as Kanika continues to navigate the various equations and disagreements inside the Bigg Boss house. The actress has frequently expressed her opinions during conversations with fellow contestants and has been involved in several discussions as the season progresses.

Sidharth's mention of his mother watching Kanika's journey added a personal touch to the interaction. His appreciation also gave Kanika a moment of recognition during the Weekend Ka Vaar episode.

Meanwhile, Sidharth and Tamannaah appeared on the show as part of the promotions for The Vvaan: Force of the Forrest. Their appearance included interactions with Salman Khan and the contestants, with Kanika's shoutout emerging as one of the highlights for the actress.

For Kanika, the moment marked a notable interaction with Sidharth, particularly after the actor acknowledged her presence and personality on the show.

Nikkhil Advani began his career as an assistant director before making a smashing directorial debut with Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003). After helming several significant films, he switched gears and carved a niche for himself in the OTT space with shows like Mumbai Diaries, Freedom at Midnight and the recently released The Revolutionaries. He has also produced acclaimed shows such as The Empire, Rocket Boys and Adhura, along with films like Airlift (2016) and Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway (2023), further adding to his impressive body of work. In a recent interview, Nikkhil opened up like never before about his family migrating from Sindh during the Partition and also spoke about how younger generations are reacting to his films.

After Kal Ho Naa Ho, Nikkhil Advani’s next directorial was Salaam-E-Ishq (2007), followed by Chandni Chowk To China (2009). The latter, starring Akshay Kumar and Deepika Padukone, didn’t receive a favourable response from the audience at the time. However, Nikkhil revealed that Gen Z viewers have since appreciated the film, with many even asking him to make a sequel to Chandni Chowk To China.

Nikkhil Advani told Mumbai Mirror, “The people asking me for a Chandni Chowk sequel today were four years old when it was released (laughs). They didn’t care about narrative structure; they just saw Akshay Kumar [who plays a chef in the film] fighting a giant potato and somehow it worked for them.”

In the same interview, the acclaimed filmmaker revealed that in the summer of 1947, just before the Partition, his great-grandfather flew with his whole family from Sindh to Mumbai, before the former became a part of Pakistan.

Nikkhil Advani also revealed that during the journey, his grandfather carried a heavy money belt strapped around his waist. The money was not his savings. According to the article, “He worked for Habib Bank, which was shifting its headquarters to Karachi at Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s behest”. Hence, he was entrusted to deliver the cash to its Bombay branch. And his grandfather "handed over every rupee".

Also Read: Akshay Kumar and Vipul Shah’s Samuk takes authenticity to another level in London; makers use REAL helicopter for dramatic sequence instead of VFX

Lyricist Sameer had a conversation with Komal Nahta and spoke about the banners and filmmakers he particularly enjoyed working with over the years. Sameer said, “I had a wonderful time working with Yash Chopra and his production house. I haven’t done a lot of work with them; I wrote songs for Aaina (1993), Yeh Dillagi (1994), Dhoom (2004), Dhoom 2 (2006) and Dhoom 3 (2013). Unke yahaan kaam karne ka mazaa hai kyunki bahut sensibility ke saath kaam hota hai. While working with them, you’d feel like you are a part of their family. They understand cinema, the craft, lyrics, poetry, etc.”

Sameer continued, “I wrote 3 films for B R Chopra – Kal Ki Awaz (1992), Baghban (2003) and Baabul (2006). I can’t tell you the contribution of Chopra saab during Baghban. I had a good time working with Karan Johar. I only did two films with him – Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998) and Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001). Lekin jo kaam karne ki samajh uss aadmi mein hai, khaas kar music ko leke, it's praiseworthy.”

Sameer revealed, “At one point, Jatin-Lalit almost quit Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. They were pressurized by the presence so many stars of different generations. I told them, ‘Yeh film aap log mat chodo. Bas Karan ko follow karo’. That’s what I did. The song ‘Say Shava Shava’ was difficult as it had so many actors – Amit ji bhi hai, Jaya ji bhi hai, Shah Rukh bhi hai, Rani bhi hai, Kajol bhi hai. But that man (Karan Johar) narrates so minutely that it became very easy. Mujhe pata bhi nahin chala maine Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham ke gaane kab likh diye!”

Sameer then started, “The first song of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, which was released, was, ‘Tum Paas Aaye, Yun Muskuraaye’. David Dhawan heard the song. He called and told me, ‘Bada ganda gaana likha hai tune, yaar. Meri picture mein aisa gaana likhna mat’ (laughs)! I asked him, ‘Teri picture ka gaana hai? Tu kyun pareshan ho raha hai? Jaane de na’. He said, ‘Meri film ke gaane bhi release hue hain. Uss film ke music ko khatam nahin kar diya toh tu mujhe bata’!”

The film David Dhawan mentioned was Bade Miyan Chote Miyan (1998) and Sameer wrote the songs for it as well. Sameer added, “Both films (Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and Bade Miyan Chote Miyan) were released on the same day and the songs of both the movies were blockbusters.”

Also Read: Subhash Ghai celebrates Ishita Deshmukh as Gondhal becomes India’s official Oscar entry

Lyricist Sameer had a conversation with Komal Nahta, during which he went down memory lane and shared several anecdotes related to prominent films and stars. He also spoke about the importance of music in cinema.

Sameer said, “A film can become a hit even without a song. For example, a film like Kanoon (1960) did work. But viewers will go to watch such films once. Film ki repeat value gaana hota tha. Once you see the film and know it story, toh aap baar baar kya wohi dekhne jaoge? During Aashiqui (1990), I witnessed viewers entering the theatre to see the song. Once the song would end, they would go out, have tea and then come back again to catch the next song. They had calculated the gap between the two songs and would enter the theatre accordingly! Imagine the importance of music. Also, in the 90s, we gave maximum hits with newcomers. Phool Aur Kaante (1991) was Ajay Devgn’s first film. Kya music tha uss film ka.”

He then spoke about music director Nadeem Saifi of Nadeem-Shravan fame, “Nadeem saw Ajay Devgn and told director Kuku Kohli, ‘Isko mat leke aana. Mujhe depression ho jaayega. How will we be inspired to write songs? Tumko yehi ek actor mila tha.’ But when he saw him in the film, he congratulated him. He accepted that (he made a mistake). I don’t know if Kuku ever told Ajay about this episode!”

Sameer continued, “That’s how Nadeem is. He would not mince words. Ramesh Sippy offered a film to us, Zamaana Deewana (1995; starring Shah Rukh Khan and Raveena Tandon). We did the film eventually. Ramesh ji narrated the film to us for 2 ½ hours and then asked him, ‘Nadeem bhai, kaisa laga?’. Any other person would hesitate, especially when sitting in front of such a big director. But Nadeem told him, ‘Aisi wahiyaad kahani maine nahin suni’ (laughs)!”

Also Read: Kajol talks about AI vs human creativity: “A machine has thoughts already in a library”

Hema Malini recently opened up about changing trends of stardom and also touched upon being dignified while ageing gracefully. In an interview with Mumbai Mirror, she said, “Today there is too much exposure. We were never exposed like this. Now, before stepping out of the house, an actor has to think about what to wear, what bag to carry, how to walk, because somebody is photographing you from every angle. You go to the airport and people immediately click photographs with their mobile phones. Even if you’re not dressed properly, nobody cares. The picture is everywhere.”

She also remarked, “Youngsters today want quick fame. For publicity, they are ready to do anything. We never had to do all that. We worked for 60 or 70 days on a film and then waited to see the result on screen. I always knew I had done my best. Whether the film became a hit or not was a different matter.”

We are living in times of cosmetic procedures are fairly common. Hema Malini endorsed the idea but with terms and conditions.

She remarked, “Ageing gracefully is very important because you have to maintain yourself. If there is something genuinely necessary for your appearance, one can definitely try it. As long as you are in the public eye, you have to be presentable. That’s all. But don’t overdo anything.”

She then added, “Even if you wear something simple, be dignified. Women should dress up nicely. They don’t have to expose too much. Nowadays, young girls expose so much. Being a woman and being a mother, I don’t like it. It really hurts.”

Two weeks before this interview, Hema Malini, in a rare instance, revealed why she had declined Satyam Shivam Sundaram (1978), admitting that she was uncomfortable with the bold portrayal of the female lead.

She revealed, “After Sapno Ka Saudagar (1968), I always wanted to work with Raj Kapoor saab again. After some years, he wanted me to do Satyam Shivam Sundaram. But he himself told me, ‘I know you won’t do it.’ I told him that I would love to work under his direction, but I wouldn’t be able to do this film.”

Also Read: Hema Malini opens up about life after Dharmendra’s passing; says, “I’m living with his memories”

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”

Katrina Kaif has opened up about her evolving skincare journey, revealing how post-pregnancy changes made her routine more careful and intentional. Her comments to The Hollywood Reporter arrive at a time when the actress has faced extensive trolling over her recent post-pregnancy appearance, making her beauty insights particularly resonant for fans navigating similar concerns.

Katrina explained that her skin’s needs changed significantly after becoming a mother. “Post-pregnancy, my skin became even more sensitive, so it was a really tricky time because I had to understand what products were working for me. I found myself looking for products that felt soothing, calming and restorative,” she said.

This phase led her to prioritize barrier health in her regimen. Speaking about her own range of products, Kaif added, “It reinforced my belief that focusing on your barrier support and repair is so important, as it’s our skin’s first line of defence to environmental stressors.”

Reflecting on how her approach to beauty has evolved over the years, Katrina noted a shift from external stereotypes to internal well-being. “It’s changed a lot. When I started out early through my modelling and acting career, there were a lot of stereotypes about what the beauty standards were. Now for me, looking my best is really about feeling my best, and that comes from taking care of myself as a whole,” she stated.

She listed several non-negotiables that influence how her skin behaves: “A healthy diet, keeping the inflammation in your body under control, staying active, meditation, a phone-free daily hour of your morning and getting natural light first thing in the morning. It all makes a huge difference to how I feel, and ultimately how my skin behaves. I think when you feel healthy, that confidence naturally reflects on the outside.”

Katrina also emphasized the importance of being responsive to her skin’s changing needs. “I’ve learnt to be adaptable and responsive to what my skin needs at a particular phase or time. Stress, inflammation and environment all play a big factor. Sensitive skin can behave very differently from one day to the next,” she said.

At present, her focus is on hydration and resilience. “Right now, in this phase, I’m focusing on deep cellular hydration, supporting and strengthening my skin barrier and keeping it calm and resilient. Even makeup application is hugely improved when the skin is cared for,” Katrina added.

With her candid breakdown, the actress offers a blueprint that goes beyond products—centring on barrier care, lifestyle balance and self-trust in a phase of life that many women find confusing and highly scrutinized.

Also Read: Katrina Kaif expands Kay Beauty into skincare with Hydra Glaze Essence and Hydra Base Water Crème

Lyricist Sameer Anjaan recently revisited a difficult chapter from the early stages of his career during an appearance on Komal Nahta’s Game Changers: The Music Series. The lyricist recalled an incident involving a music director, who he chose not to name, and revealed how the encounter became a moment of self-doubt before eventually motivating him to continue pursuing songwriting.

Sameer, son of veteran songwriter Anjaan, recalled that the incident took place before he met music director Usha Khanna. He said the unnamed music director was a good acquaintance of his father. After listening to several of Sameer’s songs, the music director reportedly questioned his decision to pursue songwriting.

Sharing details of the interaction, Sameer said, "There was an incident before I visited Usha Khanna. I will not disclose the name of the music director, but he was a good acquaintance of my father.” He further recalled, “I showed him a few of my songs. After listening to 15–20 songs attentively, he said, 'You have a good education, you had a job, and you are the son of such a good ‘Shayar’; why would you ruin his reputation? I can give you in writing that you will never become a songwriter. Don’t waste your time here. If you need money, I will give it to you; go back to Banaras.' In anger, he threw my music diary from the third floor,” he shared.

The incident left Sameer questioning his abilities as a songwriter, particularly because the criticism had come from someone who knew his father. However, he said he remembered a line from his father’s work, which gave him the motivation to continue.

He went on to add, “While I was going down to retrieve it, I had so many questions in my mind. This music director was a friend of my father. He had listened to my songs for 45 minutes to an hour, and if his reaction was like this, was there a problem with my skills? Then I remembered a line from my father’s work: 'Jag abhi jeeta nahi hai, tu abhi haara nahi hai. Faisla hone se pehle haar mat swikaar karna.' I found new motivation in those words. I picked up my diary and went straight to Santa Cruz, to Usha Khanna’s house in Khar Road."

Sameer Anjaan is among the prolific lyricists in Indian cinema and holds a Guinness World Record for writing the highest number of film songs. His appearance on Game Changers: The Music Series offered a glimpse into the struggles that preceded his established career.

This version keeps the focus on the incident and Sameer’s recollection, while avoiding unverified conclusions about the unnamed music director or adding details beyond the supplied material.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: “Don’t know if Hera Pheri 3 will be made, there is no clear picture,” says Sameer Anjaan

Akshay Kumar and Vipul Amrutlal Shah’s Samuk is continuing to build an eclectic ensemble, and we hear acclaimed actor-filmmaker Rajat Kapoor is the latest name to come on board the sci-fi action thriller.

According to sources, Kapoor is said to be playing a pivotal part in the Kanishk Varma directorial, which is being produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah under Sunshine Pictures and co-produced by Aashin A Shah. The film, currently being shot in the UK, is being mounted as a large-scale theatrical spectacle combining science fiction, action and survival elements.

Kapoor is known for bringing a certain assured nuance and intelligence to his performances. Over the years, he has moved fluidly between character-driven parts and mainstream Hindi cinema, with performances in films such as Monsoon Wedding (2001), Bheja Fry (2007), Kapoor & Sons (2016), Mulk (2018), Drishyam (2015), Drishyam 2 (2022), Gehraiyaan (2022), etc., thus forming part of an unusually varied body of work. Recently, Rajat Kapoor was part of the ensemble of Netflix’s Raat Akeli Hai: The Bansal Murders (2025) and was also seen in Imtiaz Ali’s Main Vaapas Aaunga (2026).

Rajat Kapoor brings a very different quality to the ensemble. He has the ability to deliver an assured performance which amps up the movie, and that is important for a film like Samuk. The role has weight within the story, and the makers felt he was the right fit.

Kapoor’s reported addition gives Samuk yet another interesting casting, bringing together performers with very different screen energies around Akshay Kumar.

Samuk marks the reunion of Akshay Kumar and producer Vipul Amrutlal Shah after a gap of 13 years. The project has been in development for over two years and is being mounted on a large scale for theatrical audiences.

Also Read: BREAKING: Akshay Kumar and Vipul Shah’s Samuk takes authenticity to another level in London; makers use REAL helicopter for dramatic sequence instead of VFX

Sara Ali Khan is in New York for Fashion Week, where she is set to attend the Tommy Hilfiger Spring 2027 runway show. Ahead of the showcase, the actor spoke to Lifestyle Asia India about her approach to fashion, the pieces currently inspiring her, and how she likes to spend her time in the Big Apple.

For Sara, personal style is less about following a fixed set of fashion rules and more about letting individuality take the lead. When asked about a fashion rule she has stopped following, she shared a simple philosophy: “Impress other people, express yourself is my new one.”

She also believes that an outfit should complement the person wearing it rather than become the focus of attention. “Just don't let the outfit wear you, be yourself in whatever you wear and then your personality will come through is what I think,” Sara said. Sara Ali Khan’s current fashion moodboard While Sara has experimented with vibrant and colourful looks over the years, her current fashion moodboard is taking a more understated direction. The actor said she has been enjoying minimal silhouettes and a more restrained colour palette. “Minimalistic, monotones, I'm enjoying that. I've done so much like colourful shock and awe in my life that it's kind of nice to do some basics,” she said.

Her current preference also reflects her broader approach to fashion. Rather than building her wardrobe around every new trend, Sara said she prefers dressing in a way that feels comfortable and authentic. “I don't never really follow trends, I think just be yourself and be comfortable in your own skin has been what I do,” she said. From fashion staples to everyday favourites When it comes to the pieces she is most drawn to, Sara has a soft spot for practical wardrobe staples. Asked about her biggest fashion weakness between shoes, bags, jewellery and jackets, she picked two. “Well, I love winter jackets and I like tote bags, so it's between the two depending on where I'm going,” she said.

For the one fashion piece she believes everyone should own, Sara chose a classic from the brand she is set to watch on the runway. “I think a Tommy Hilfiger cable net,” she said, referring to the label's cable-knit style. What would be on Sara’s fashion soundtrack? Fashion and music often go hand in hand, and Sara took a personal route when asked what song would accompany her outfit for the evening. “My outfit tonight, I don't know something like reminds me, maybe my Columbia school anthem,” she said.

The answer is also a nod to her connection with New York. Sara studied at Columbia University and has previously spoken about her time in the city. Sara Ali Khan’s Perfect New York Day For Sara, a day off in New York is not necessarily about ticking off tourist attractions. Her ideal day involves a mix of exercise, food and plenty of walking. “Barry's Boot Camp, Whole Foods, Mamo, walking, more walking, some desserts, some more Mamo, then you're too tired for Barry's Boot Camp,” she said.

Having lived in the city, Sara also finds that some of the most quintessentially New York experiences are the everyday ones. Asked about the most New York thing she has done on this trip, she said, “I've lived here, so I don't know like what the most New York thing is, like take a subway, talk to a stranger, eat a pizza on the road, just these things.”

From keeping her fashion moodboard minimal to choosing comfort and individuality over trends, Sara’s approach to style appears to be rooted in making fashion work for her rather than the other way around. And as she heads to the Tommy Hilfiger Spring 2027 showcase, her current fashion philosophy seems to be less about making a statement for others and more about expressing herself.

Also Read: Sara Ali Khan taking a Swiss Alps escape with mom is pure bliss; “Mommy & Mountain” poem goes viral

Amaal Mallik has responded strongly to social media users targeting his family amid the ongoing discussion surrounding his song ‘Main Hoon Hero Tera’. The composer took to social media to address the criticism and made it clear that while he may respond to comments directed at him, he would not accept remarks aimed at his family.

On Wednesday, Amaal shared a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, drawing a distinction between criticism of his work and comments about his family. He wrote, “A statutory warning to the entire audience on each & every social platform of the world… Not a word about my family will be tolerated.”

Amaal was referring to the controversy surrounding ‘Main Hoon Hero Tera’, the 2015 song sung by Salman Khan. Addressing the discussion around the song's credits, he explained the contributions of everyone involved in its making. Amaal wrote, “Firstly, know that Armaan Malik has sung the main version, because of which it could be presented to the actor-producer Mr Salman Khan and director Mr Nikhil Advani. I made it, @kumaarofficial sir wrote it, @ArmaanMalik22 sang it; hence it got approved and then @BeingSalmanKhan sir sang it. That’s how the cookie crumbles, and that’s exactly how it happened, okay? FYI, without Me & Kumaar sir, there would be no song to sing. Without Armaan, there would be nothing to play to Salman, sir. Without SK’s face & voice version, the song wouldn’t be where it is today; never denied that. But does anyone even pause to think how much goes into creating a song and then get left out of every celebration post every year.”

A statutory warning to the entire audience on each & every social platform of the world…

Not a word about my family will be tolerated.

Targeting me is part of your game plan, gives you some likes and eyeballs - GREAT!

You are welcome ;)

Last few days I have been seeing… pic.twitter.com/nEx3qvLr3e — Amaal Mallik (@AmaalMallik) September 16, 2026

The composer further warned that he would publicly address those who make comments about his family. He also spoke about standing by his father, Daboo Malik, and his family despite their estrangement.

“I will expose each one of you here if I find you saying anything against my family. Also, if anyone from the film industry, without probable cause or reason, stands up against me and mine, watch out, I’ll be coming for you… Music ka #Srk hoon main, Magar gussa mera #SalmanKhan Aur #SanjayDutt wala hai. Yeh sab doosro ko saath chalta hoga, Daboo Malik aur unki family ke saath Bilkul nahi… Amaal Mallik unke saath khada tha, hai aur rahega bhi. So, bhidna at your own risk. (This might happen with others, but definitely not with Daboo Malik and his family… Amaal Mallik stood with them, stands with them, and will continue to stand with them. So, clash at your own risk).”

The controversy began after Salman Khan Films shared a social media post marking 10 years of ‘Main Hoon Hero Tera’ without initially mentioning Amaal Mallik as the composer. Amaal subsequently called out the omission, following which the post was edited to include his credit.

The incident also led to criticism of Amaal on social media, with some users calling him ‘ungrateful’ towards Salman Khan. Amaal and his singer-brother Armaan Malik subsequently defended his position publicly, resulting in further discussion online.

Also Read : Sau Aasmaan Turns 10: Amaal Malik, Armaan Malik and Neeti Mohan reflect on ‘Baar Baar Dekho’ song˝

Director Meghna Gulzar recently opened up about her experiences of working with several prominent actors, including Irrfan Khan, Vicky Kaushal, Deepika Padukone, Alia Bhatt, Tabu, Sushmita Sen, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Prithviraj Sukumaran. During a conversation for The Indian Express’ Expresso series, Meghna reflected on the different working styles of the actors she has collaborated with over the years. The filmmaker, known for films such as Raazi, Talvar and Sam Bahadur, is currently preparing for the release of Daayra, which stars Kareena and Prithviraj.

Irrfan Khan

Talking about her experience with Irrfan Khan in Talvar, Meghna said she had very little to do when it came to directing him. “I really had nothing to do. Everything he did, he made me look good,” she said. However, she revealed that there was one aspect of their collaboration that she still does not have an answer to. “I still don’t know which side of Talvar’s perspective he believes or agrees with,” she said.

Vicky Kaushal

Meghna also discussed her working relationship with Vicky Kaushal, whom she directed in Raazi and Sam Bahadur. Describing their understanding, she said, “I don’t need to complete a sentence. He knows what I am going to say if I want him to do something differently. That connection is just superb.” She added that finding another role bigger than Sam Bahadur could be difficult. “After Sam Bahadur, it is going to be very difficult to find a role that is larger than that. And the desire to work with him is very much there,” she said.

Deepika Padukone

On Deepika Padukone, who worked with her in Chhapaak, Meghna said, “She is a deep actor. She’ll never stay on the surface. She will go beneath the surface of the character, of the scene, of the story.” She also joked about their similarities, saying, “She’s a bigger OCD than I am.”

Alia Bhatt

Discussing Alia Bhatt, Meghna described her as spontaneous and instinctive. “She is spontaneous and instinctive to a point where she can hurt herself,” she said, recalling the running sequence in Raazi. “The running scene in Raazi is where she would get hurt every day. That is the difficult part. She tends to hurt herself,” she added.

Tabu and Sushmita Sen

Meghna also recalled working with Tabu and Sushmita Sen in Filhaal. While she found Tabu’s performance easy to work with, she admitted that directing an already established actor was not simple. “She is already an accomplished, senior actor. To be telling her what to do and how to do it was not easy,” she said.

Speaking about Sushmita, Meghna said, “What you see is what you get. Very, very not layered at all. The relationship was very easy.” Asked about the difficult part, she simply said, “There was nothing difficult with her.”

Kareena Kapoor Khan and Prithviraj

On her current collaborators Kareena and Prithviraj in Daayra, Meghna said both actors required very little instruction. “The easy part has been their proficiency as actors. I don’t have to talk about that. There was very little instruction required,” she said. She further noted that their interpretations had gone beyond what she had originally envisioned. “The interpretation they have given for their characters has elevated them more than I had imagined on paper, or between the lines. That’s the very gratifying part,” she said.

However, Meghna admitted that the trust placed in her by the two actors also comes with responsibility. “The immense trust they put in me is very scary. That makes it difficult,” she said.

Also Read : Parvathy Thiruvothu lends her voice to Kareena Kapoor Khan’s Ajooni in Malayalam version of Daayra

The casting of Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama in Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana has been a topic of discussion since the release of the film’s first teaser. While some viewers have questioned whether the actor fits the role, others have responded positively to his appearance as the revered mythological character. Amid the ongoing debate, Ravie Dubey, who plays Lakshman in the film, has spoken in support of his co-star and shared his experience of working with him.\

In an interview with Variety India, Ravie Dubey praised Ranbir Kapoor’s approach to his work and described him as “simply the best”. Addressing the criticism around Ranbir’s casting as Lord Rama, Ravie said, “I think Ranbir is simply the best we have. He is a superstar of epic proportions, but what has stayed with me even more is the human being and the artiste I have witnessed at close range. The sincerity with which he comes onto a set is unparalleled. His work ethic, etiquette, intensity and preparation; I had heard so much about these things, but I had the privilege of witnessing them firsthand.”

Ravie further spoke about Ranbir’s personality away from his stardom and added, “And alongside all of that is this incredibly grounded, warm and inclusive nature. There is no weight of his stardom in the way he interacts with people. I find that enormously inspiring. It is my great good fortune to be a part of this journey alongside Ranbir, Namit (Malhotra), Nitesh (Tiwari), Yash, Sai Pallavi and every single person associated with Ramayana.”

Ranbir had earlier confirmed that he will be seen in the dual roles of Lord Rama and Lord Parshurama in Ramayana. Speaking about playing both characters in an interview with Collider, he said, “Lord Vishnu had different avatars. Lord Rama was an avatar, and Lord Parshurama was an avatar before Lord Rama. Just to get the opportunity, you know, how I got to play Lord Rama, to also play Lord Parshurama was fantastic.”

About Ramayana

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana is based on Valmiki’s ancient Sanskrit epic and follows the life and trials of Lord Rama, the Prince of Ayodhya. The film features Ranbir Kapoor, Ravie Dubey in his film debut as Lakshman, Sai Pallavi, Sunny Deol, Yash in his Hindi film debut, Anupam Kher, Kajal Aggarwal, Rakul Preet Singh, Vivek Oberoi, Kunal Kapoor, Adinath Kothare, Arun Govil, Indira Krishnan and Lara Dutta.

The two-part film is backed by Namit Malhotra and Yash under Prime Focus Studios, Monster Mind Creations and DNEG. Mounted on a reported budget of Rs 4,000 crores, Ramayana is slated to release in two parts, with the first instalment scheduled for Diwali 2026 and the second part arriving on Diwali 2027.

Also Read : BREAKING: 4-minute-15-second-long trailer of Ramayana passed by CBFC with a ‘U’ certificate

The Supreme Court on September 15, 2026, granted actor Rajpal Yadav a final two-week window to submit a concrete proposal for clearing his outstanding financial dues in multiple cheque-bounce cases. A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant and comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana extended the actor's exemption from surrendering until October 5, while directing him to deposit Rs 2 crore with the apex court registry.

The bench strongly criticized Yadav’s past non-compliance with judicial directions, observing that his conduct failed to inspire confidence. “He is perfect at doing drama but this court. Earlier orders of the court have not been complied with,” the bench remarked during proceedings, before deciding to grant him one last opportunity to prove his bona fides. Defense cites financial distress and industry support Appearing on behalf of the actor, senior advocate PS Patwalia urged the court to allow two weeks to present a detailed payment roadmap. He assured the bench that Yadav would deposit Rs 2 crore as a demonstration of good faith.

Patwalia informed the court that Yadav had already served four-and-a-half months in prison in connection with the matter, noting that the actor would need assistance from friends in the film industry to arrange the funds.

Representing the complainant, M/s Murali Projects Pvt Ltd, senior advocate Ajit Sinha emphasized that the firm was primarily focused on recovering the defaulted funds. He told the bench that Yadav had repeatedly failed to honor his financial commitments over the years.

The legal dispute traces back to financial assistance of Rs 5 crore allegedly extended to Yadav for a film project in 2010. According to the complainant, Yadav tendered seven cheques of Rs 1.05 crore each in 2013 as part of a settlement agreement, all of which subsequently bounced.

The complainant further stated that under a 2012 agreement, Yadav, his wife Radha Rajpal Yadav, and their company had agreed to repay approximately Rs 11 crore, inclusive of accumulated interest. The apex court is scheduled to hear the matter next on October 5.

Also Read: Rajpal Yadav gets interim relief from Supreme Court in cheque dishonour cases, asked to deposit Rs 5 crores

Rabya Khan, the mother of the late actress Jiah Khan, has issued her first public response after actor Sooraj Pancholi’s name appeared in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) First Information Report (FIR) regarding celebrity manager Disha Salian’s death. Expressing deep concern over the handling of the investigation, Rabya drew sharp parallels between the ongoing developments and her late daughter’s legal journey, questioning the potential loss or destruction of critical forensic material.

Taking to social media without naming specific individuals, Rabya voiced her apprehension regarding the resurgence of familiar names after several years. “When I hear that the same name has surfaced in another young Disha Salian murder six years ago, it deeply saddens me and this must alarm everyone,” she wrote. Concerns over evidence destruction and investigation handicaps Highlighting the pivotal role of forensic integrity, Rabya stressed that once vital evidence is compromised, establishing the facts becomes extremely difficult for both investigative agencies and affected families. She claimed personal insight into how evidence can be manipulated, stating she knows what happens when crucial material is “destroyed” or replaced in a way that can “fool victims”.

She also cited what she called “serious discrepancies” previously noted by the High Court regarding the initial probe into Disha Salian's death. Rabya argued that conducting a fresh inquiry years after an event poses severe challenges if foundational proof is no longer intact.

“No wonder they have specifically said no one is accused without evidence. But when crucial evidence has already been destroyed or lost, a fresh investigation will face an enormous handicap,” she noted.

Rabya further compared the framing of the investigation to her daughter's case. She observed that while Jiah's death was ruled as an "abetment to suicide", there were serious questions over whether the alleged act of "abetting" was thoroughly examined. She claimed a similar pattern is currently unfolding in Disha’s case.

Jiah Khan’s mother says, "System repeatedly fails to protect evidence" In her statement, Rabya expressed worry that a lack of concrete forensic proof could ultimately result in an incomplete judicial process or lead to acquittals. “High Court order will give these accused acquittal due to no evidence,” she warned, questioning why evidence capable of uncovering the truth is allegedly not preserved, leaving grieving families “searching for answers”.

She went on to question institutional protocols surrounding high-profile cases, writing, “Think why the system repeatedly fails to protect the evidence that could establish the truth.” Reiterating her demand for transparency and justice, she concluded, “The people are not foolish, it’s different perception created to hide truth when the system tries to protect them,” adding firmly that “Disha deserves the truth, just as Jiah did.” Background on Jiah Khan’s Case Jiah Khan, who made her Bollywood debut in Nishabd (2007) alongside Amitabh Bachchan and later featured in hit films like Ghajini and Housefull, was found dead at her Mumbai residence on June 3, 2013, at the age of 25. Her death was initially investigated as a suicide, and her then-boyfriend Sooraj Pancholi was charged with abetment to suicide. Following a long trial, a Special CBI Court acquitted Pancholi in April 2023, citing a lack of concrete evidence. Rabya Khan has consistently rejected the suicide ruling, maintaining that her daughter was murdered.

Also Read: Sooraj Pancholi DENIES link to Disha Salian death case after CBI FIR names him alongside Aaditya Thackeray, Rhea Chakraborty: “Very unfair and extremely upsetting”

Filmmaker Rakesh Roshan has leased two commercial units in Mumbai’s Andheri West to Beingu Studios Private Limited. According to property registration documents accessed by CRE Matrix, the two offices have a combined area of 5,574 sq ft and are being leased for a monthly fee of Rs 7.30 lakh.

The commercial units are situated at Commerce Centre, off New Link Road in Oshiwara, Andheri West. The deal also includes two car parking spaces.

The leave and license agreement was registered on September 9, 2026. The lease has been signed for a period of three years, with a 5% annual increase in the monthly rent. The security deposit for the transaction stands at Rs 10.95 lakh. Rent To Increase Over Three-Year Lease As per the registered agreement, Beingu Studios will pay Rs 7.30 lakh per month during the first year of the lease. The monthly license fee will rise to Rs 7.66 lakh in the second year and further increase to Rs 8.04 lakh during the third year.

The escalation clause is part of the three-year leave and license agreement registered with the authorities.

Beingu Studios describes itself on its website as a content enterprise with operations spanning cinema, television, live concerts and digital platforms. Rakesh Roshan’s Recent Property Transactions The latest commercial lease comes a few months after Rakesh Roshan and his wife, Pramila Roshan, leased their apartment in Mumbai’s Juhu-Vile Parle Development Scheme. The residential property was leased for three years. Property registration documents accessed by CRE Matrix indicated that the agreement could generate approximately Rs 1.89 crore in rental income over the complete lease period.

The Roshan family has also been involved in several property transactions in Mumbai and other parts of the country in recent months.

In January 2026, Rakesh Roshan sold a 1.09-hectare land parcel in Pune district for Rs 15 crore. The transaction was recorded in property registration documents accessed by CRE Matrix.

Also Read: BREAKING: EXCLUSIVE footage of Ramayana to be screened at Big Cine Expo 2026, Chennai; Rakesh Roshan to receive Special Achievement Award

Yesterday, we reported that Anya Singh of The Ba***ds Of Bollywood fame has joined the star cast of Vikram Bhatt’s 1920: Cold Winter. We now bring you another exciting update about the upcoming horror film.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Music composer Himesh Reshammiya has signed the film. Vikram Bhatt’s horror films are known not just for jump scares and scary visuals, but also for soulful music. 1920: Cold Winter is no exception. This time, he really wanted the music to stand out and hence, he approached Himesh. Himesh Reshammiya was too happy to join hands with Vikram after a long time and signed on the dotted line.”

1920: Cold Winter marks the fifth film of Vikram Bhatt and Himesh Reshammiya. They previously collaborated on Footpath (2003), Fear (2007), Red: The Dark Side (2007) and Dangerous Ishhq (2012).

Meanwhile, another source told us, “Vikram Bhatt has shot for many of his films in Ooty. But for 1920: Cold Winter, he’ll be filming in Mussoorie. Moreover, the shoot takes place in the winter season at the end of the year, which will be perfect as per the film’s requirement.”

Bollywood Hungama has also learned that the other film for which Himesh Reshammiya has composed is the Sunny Deol-starrer Soorya. As per sources, the film is now called Suryaa - One Man Against The System. It is produced by Kamal Mukut and co-stars Manish Wadhwa, Ravi Kishan and others. It is the remake of the Malayalam film Joseph (2018), and just like the original, the action entertainer is directed by M Padmakumar. In this film, Sunny Deol plays a retired cop who takes on the organ harvesting mafia.

This is the third time that Himesh Reshammiya has composed music for a Sunny Deol starrer. Their previous collaborations were Fool & Final (2007) and Apne (2007); both films released 19 years ago.

The source also revealed, “Himesh Reshammiya’s music label, Himesh Reshammiya Melodies, has bagged the music rights of both 1920: Cold Winter and Suryaa - One Man Against The System. The label will also release songs from other films for which Himesh is composing the music, including the Emraan Hashmi-starrer Gunmaaster G9, the Ayushmann Khurrana-starrer Yeh Prem Mol Liya and Anil Sharma’s Utkarsh Sharma-Arjun Rampal starrer Arjun Naga.”

About 1920: Cold Winter

1920: Cold Winter was announced a few weeks after the release and surprising box office performance of Haunted – Echoes Of The Past (2026). Like the Mimoh Chakraborty-starrer, 1920: Cold Winter is also produced by Anand Pandit. Ahan Shetty has been locked in as the male lead. Interestingly, both Ahan Shetty and Anya Singh also shared screen space in this year’s super-hit war film, Border 2. While Ahan played the role of Lt Cdr Mahendra Singh Rawat, Anya was seen as his wife, Sudha Rawat. Hence, 1920: Cold Winter marks the second film in which Ahan Shetty and Anya Singh will be paired opposite each other.

Also Read: SCOOP: Himesh Reshammiya Melodies on a roll! After Yeh Prem Mol Liya and Gunmaaster G9, label bags music rights of Anil Sharma’s Arjun Naga

The return of Practical Magic brings back some of the franchise's most beloved characters while introducing a new generation of Owens women. For director Susanne Bier, bringing together returning stars and new talent was one of the most rewarding aspects of making Practical Magic 2.

Speaking about Dianne Wiest and Stockard Channing, who return as the iconic Aunts, Bier described the experience as an enormous privilege. “Dianne and Stockard, it was the biggest honour ever. They are beautiful human beings and they are beautiful in the movie. I almost can't see them without those gorgeous costumes. And there is a kindness to both of them. A kindness and a sharpness. It's like they're incredibly kind, but they also have an edge, and that mixture is wonderful. There's something incredibly dignified, but also very poetic about both of them.”

The sequel also expands the Owens legacy through Kylie and Antonia, played by Maisie and Joey. Bier was looking for performers who could bring strength, confidence and individuality to the next generation. “When we were talking about Kylie and Antonia, it was like, who are two real badass young women that can fill those shoes? Maisie and Joey had that in different ways.”

She adds, “They both have a strong feminine side to them, but you also have a sense that you do not want to cross them. They will do what it takes, both of them. They have very fierce will and a confident sense of self. I think we were very much looking for that. They're very different and they are gorgeous and interesting and surprising. I don't really know where to stop with either of them! The two of them were great together.”

Bier also found a distinctive dynamic in the film's male characters. Lee Pace, who plays Professor Ian Wright, brings what she describes as a rare combination of confidence, humour and sex appeal. “Lee has that balance—which is quite rare in a way in a man—of being quite comfortable in his own skin and being very, very handsome… and maybe not really caring that much about it.”

She continues, “There's a kind of generosity in Lee Pace where you think he's quite comfortable being the love interest, being Professor Ian Wright. He does play what could be thought of as a traditionally female part in a way—he’s the lead’s love interest. And he does that with quite a lot of humor and quite a lot of sexiness. And he's enjoying it. And I think that that's why it works so wonderfully well—because he's actually having a lot of fun with it.”

Xolo Maridueña's Gideon, meanwhile, was cast for his ability to balance charm with emotional openness. “With Xolo, it was that balance again of having a guy who is sexy, cute, but also kind and also, in some way, more audacious than Kylie is.”

Bier explains, “He’s not scared of telling her he loves her, and he's not scared of any of that. But because of this ingrained thing that she can't even articulate—that I'm not really allowed to love anybody—she is so much more reserved. And he's quite free with that. We wanted somebody who could play that without losing his integrity. And Xolo did that beautifully.”

With its returning icons and younger generation, Bier sees the ensemble as an important part of carrying the Practical Magic legacy forward.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Susanne Bier on the theatrical experience of Practical Magic 2: “Watching a movie with other people is an entirely different experience”