Indus Chronicles

A major controversy has disrupted the 12th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) in Thiruvananthapuram, as the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) has withheld screening permissions for several films, leading to cancellations.​

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has sharply criticized the decision, calling it “deeply unfortunate” and highlighting the denial of clearance to 19 scheduled films. On December 16, 2025, he noted on social media that the original list was longer, but some approvals followed his intervention with I&B Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, requested by festival chairman Riyas LP, while others await Ministry of External Affairs clearance.

Tharoor described the bureaucracy's stance as a “staggering lack of cinematic understanding,” questioning blocks on classics like Battleship Potemkin, a 1928 Russian Revolution film seen by millions worldwide, including in India. "The list of 19 films suggests an extraordinary degree of cinematic illiteracy on the part of the bureaucracy. To deny clearance to a classic like Battleship Potemkin, a 1928 film on the Russian Revolution which has been viewed by literally hundreds of millions around the world (and in India) over the last century, is laughable. Denying permission to some Palestinian films reflects bureaucratic over-cautiousness rather than the cultural breadth of vision that should be involved when it comes to world cinema," he wrote.

It is most unfortunate that an unseemly controversy has arisen over the central government's denial of clearance to 19 films which were scheduled to be screened at the International Film Festival of Kerala in Thiruvananthapuram.

The original list was much longer, but several… — Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) December 16, 2025

He urged Ministers Ashwini Vaishnaw and S Jaishankar to expedite approvals, warning of damage to India’s cultural image, especially in cinema-loving Kerala.​

Films lacking Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) approval require special I&B Ministry exemption for festival screenings, and the absence of these has stalled the IFFK schedule.

Veteran filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan decried restrictions on landmarks like Battleship Potemkin, The Hour of the Furnaces, and the Spanish film Beef, calling it a “clear misunderstanding of cinema” that judges by titles or politics, undermining artistic freedom. Organizers are negotiating resolutions before the festival ends on December 19, amid delegate inconvenience.

Also Read: Karan Johar, Malaika Arora compare Pitch To Get Rich contestant to Shashi Tharoor; Congress MP gives cheeky reply!

Filmmaker Anees Bazmee has officially confirmed that he is reuniting with Akshay Kumar after a gap of 15 years. While speculation around their collaboration had been circulating for some time, Bazmee put an end to the rumours by revealing that the duo is working on a new comedy project.

Speaking to Mid-Day, Bazmee shared that the script for the film is nearing completion. “It is a comedy. I am writing the script right now, it’s almost complete. If everything goes as planned, we will start shooting soon,” he said. The film is currently untitled, and while reports had suggested that it could be a remake of the Telugu action-comedy Sankranthiki Vasthunam, Bazmee chose not to comment on those claims.

The director, however, spoke warmly about his long-standing relationship with Akshay Kumar. Reflecting on their bond, Bazmee said there has always been mutual respect between them. “There is mutual love and respect between us. When I told him about this film, he was more than happy,” he added, noting that they remained in touch over the years despite not collaborating since Thank You (2011).

Having said that, it is worth mentioning that Bollywood Hungama was among the first ones to report about Akshay Kumar and Anees Bazmee's reunion. Readers may recall that a source told Bollywood Hungama, "Anees and Akshay loved the plot of the lead character stuck between his wife and ex-girlfriend that Sankranthiki Vasthunam rides on. However, the original had a lot of Telugu flavour. To make the film palatable for the Hindi audience, Anees Bazmee is reimagining the film, keeping the core plot intact."

On the work front, Akshay Kumar has a busy slate ahead. The actor will be seen in Haiwaan and Bhoot Bangla, both directed by Priyadarshan, and is also set to return to the Hera Pheri franchise with Hera Pheri 3, once again under Priyadarshan’s direction.

Also Read: Anees Bazmee CONFIRMS Bhool Bhulaiyaa 4, says, “It is work in progress”

After touching hearts with Sitaare Zameen Par, Aamir Khan Productions is now turning the spotlight towards the people who quietly shaped the journey behind the scenes. The makers have unveiled the trailer of Sitaaron Ke Sitaare, a documentary that introduces audiences to the real stars behind the film — the parents of the young actors who featured in the sports comedy-drama.

Sitaaron Ke Sitaare traces the lives, emotions, and everyday realities of the parents whose children became the ‘Sitaare’ of Sitaare Zameen Par. While the film itself emerged as a heartwarming family entertainer and resonated deeply with audiences, the documentary expands that emotional universe by focusing on the journeys that unfolded off-screen. The trailer offers glimpses of intimate moments, shared struggles, pride, and the process of growing up alongside their children’s dreams.

Directed by Shaanib Bakshi, the documentary continues Aamir Khan Productions’ pattern of taking unconventional routes to storytelling. It follows the studio’s earlier decision to make Sitaare Zameen Par available on YouTube through the “Janta Ka Theater” initiative at a nominal price, a move that challenged traditional distribution models and widened access for audiences across the country.

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Sitaaron Ke Sitaare is set to premiere on 19th December, exclusively on Aamir Khan Talkies’ YouTube channel.

The documentary builds upon the legacy of Sitaare Zameen Par, which starred Aamir Khan and Genelia Deshmukh in lead roles and introduced ten rising talents — Aroush Datta, Gopi Krishna Varma, Samvit Desai, Vedant Sharma, Ayush Bhansali, Ashish Pendse, Rishi Shahani, Rishabh Jain, Naman Mishra, and Simran Mangeshkar. The film was directed by R. S. Prasanna, known for Shubh Mangal Saavdhan, and released in theatres on June 20, 2025.

Also Read: PVR INOX hosts special screening of Sitaare Zameen Par for Indian Air Force personnel

Dharma Productions has acquired Cornerstone’s stake in its talent management venture, Dharma Cornerstone Agency, and relaunched it under a new name — Dharma Collab Artists Agency (DCAA). The move marks a strategic expansion of Dharma’s presence beyond filmmaking into a wider cultural and talent ecosystem.

With the rebranding, DCAA will function as Dharma Productions’ exclusive platform for artist representation, spanning film, music, sports, digital media, live experiences, and cultural collaborations. The agency will continue to be led by Uday Singh Gauri as CEO and Rajeev Masand as COO, ensuring continuity as the company enters its next phase of growth.

Uday Singh Gauri, who brings over two decades of experience across talent management, music, live entertainment, and strategic partnerships, is expected to focus on expanding the agency’s reach and building new verticals. The aim, according to the leadership, is to help artists navigate careers that increasingly move across formats and platforms rather than remain limited to a single medium.

Apoorva Mehta, CEO of Dharma Productions, said, "Talent has always shaped Dharma’s identity, influencing both our creative choices and how we build for the future. With DCAA, we are creating a structured platform that supports artists across disciplines. This is a deliberate and long-term step toward deepening our role in the creative economy."

Speaking about the relaunch, Uday Singh Gauri said, "With DCAA, we’re building a platform that reflects the way artists work, express, and grow today. Representation now goes far beyond negotiation and visibility. It requires cultural understanding, business instinct, and the ability to move with — and ahead of — the industry. Our focus is on developing long-term careers across multiple formats, while creating meaningful pathways between talent and opportunity. This is about scale, yes, but it’s also about care, clarity, and collaboration."

DCAA’s current roster includes a mix of film actors, musicians, digital creators, and cultural voices such as Janhvi Kapoor, Ananya Panday, Sara Ali Khan, Disha Patani, Rasha Thadani, Aditya Roy Kapur, Harshvardhan Rane, Lakshya, Rohit Saraf, Neeti Mohan, Jonita Gandhi, Orry, Sumukhi Suresh, among others.

Dharma Productions, founded in 1976 by the late Yash Johar and now jointly owned by Karan Johar and Adar Poonawalla, has built a reputation for launching new talent while delivering commercially successful and critically acclaimed films. With DCAA, the studio appears to be extending that legacy into artist management, positioning itself as a long-term partner in shaping careers across entertainment and culture.

Also Read: Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions takes 100% control of talent venture after amicable split with Cornerstone

Vidya Balan has joined the cast of Jailer 2, adding a significant new dimension to the much-anticipated sequel to Rajinikanth’s 2023 blockbuster. Directed once again by Nelson Dilipkumar and produced by Sun Pictures, the film is shaping up to be a larger and more narratively driven follow-up to one of Kollywood’s biggest recent successes.

According to a source close to the production quoted by Pinkvilla, Vidya Balan was approached with the script and was immediately drawn to both the story and the depth of her character. The source revealed that the actor was impressed by the complexity of the role, which is said to be central to the plot and responsible for a major turning point in the film. Described as a strong, layered character, her part is expected to bring emotional weight and narrative depth to the sequel, marking her return to a high-profile commercial entertainer.

Vidya Balan’s inclusion is being seen as a move that pushes Jailer 2 beyond scale and spectacle, strengthening its storytelling ambitions. While the first film leaned heavily on Rajinikanth’s screen presence and mass moments, the sequel appears to be expanding its emotional and dramatic scope with carefully written supporting characters.

Rajinikanth will reprise his role as Tiger Muthuvel Pandian, a character that struck a chord across age groups in the original film. This time, the sequel promises higher stakes, with Muthuvel facing more dangerous adversaries and navigating bloodier, more intense conflicts. Nelson Dilipkumar returns to the director’s chair, aiming to raise the bar further while retaining the core elements that made Jailer a phenomenon.

On the release front, reports suggest that the makers are eyeing August 14, 2026, for the theatrical release of Jailer 2. The date would align the film with a long Independence Day weekend, a strategy similar to the August release window of the first part. Interestingly, it also mirrors the timing of Rajinikanth’s Coolie, which was released over the same holiday weekend earlier this year. While discussions around the final release date are still ongoing, the intention is clearly to position the sequel as a major festival release with Pan-India appeal.

Also Read: Rajinikanth’s 75th birthday becomes a star-studded celebration as Dhanush and Kamal Haasan honour him on his journey

Last month, the industry and moviegoers were in mourning as Dharmendra passed away on November 24 at the age of 89. More than a month after he left for the heavenly abode, his much-loved film Yamla Pagla Deewana (2011) is expected to be re-released in cinemas.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “The re-release of Yamla Pagla Deewana will serve as a tribute to the man who was unanimously loved and who left an indelible mark in the world of cinema. The film seems apt for a re-run as it’s not very old, still looks fresh and entertaining and also stars Dharmendra along with his two sons, Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol.”

The source continued, “Earlier, the plan was to re-release Yamla Pagla Deewana this Friday, December 19. But due to the Dhurandhar wave, NH Studioz, which holds the rights to the film, has decided to change the plan. Yamla Pagla Deewana is now expected to arrive in cinemas on January 1, 2026. A final decision will be taken in a few days from now.”

Yamla Pagla Deewana was directed by Samir Karnik and its title was inspired by the song ‘Main Jat Yamla Pagla Deewana’ from the 1975 film, Pratigya, also starring Dharmendra. A remixed version of the title track was a part of the film and added to its popularity. Yamla Pagla Deewana told the story of an Indian based in Canada who travels to Banaras to locate his estranged brother and father. Trouble arises when the trio travel to Punjab to help the younger brother win the love of his life while dealing with her crazy family.

Yamla Pagla Deewana opened at Rs. 7.95 crores, which was a healthy number then, and collected Rs. 55.28 crores in its lifetime. The film was loved for its comedy and mass appeal, and also because Dharmendra, Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol all had strong roles with ample screen time. Its success led the makers to come up with Yamla Pagla Deewana 2 (2013) and Yamla Pagla Deewana Phir Se (2018). However, both these films failed to work at the box office.

Also Read: Esha Deol pays moving tribute to Dharmendra, sharing touching montage of personal and film memories

Prominent Bollywood celebrities made their way to a five-star hotel in Mumbai on the evening of Saturday, December 13, to attend the wedding reception of the son of a popular ex-police officer. Since no paparazzi were informed, no usual celeb sightings happened for this high-profile wedding.

The wedding in question was that of Chaitanya Nayak, son of Dayanand Nayak aka Daya Nayak. The biggest celebrity that graced the happy occasion was none other than superstar Salman Khan. A few fan clubs of the actor have uploaded videos of Salman entering the venue.

Megastar #SalmanKhan Seen At Daya Nayak Sons Wedding Reception 🔥 pic.twitter.com/W3Pk3rP9OS — Filmy_Duniya (@FMovie82325) December 13, 2025

However, Bollywood Hungama has learned that besides Salman Khan, many more prominent celebrities attended the reception of Chaitanya Nayak like young actor Tiger Shroff, veteran performer Ashutosh Rana, this year's biggest comeback actor Rajat Bedi, unanimously loved celeb Manoj Bajpayee, Jayantilal Gada of PEN India Limited, Pravin Shah of Time Media And Entertainment, etc.

Daya Nayak joined the Mumbai Police department in 1985, and rose to fame as an encounter specialist in the late 1990s, as a member of the Detection Unit. In May 2025, he was promoted to Assistant Commissioner of the Police. He retired on July 31, 2025.

The 2004 Nana Patekar film, Ab Tak Chhappan, directed by Shimit Amin and produced by Ram Gopal Varma, is said to be inspired by the life of Daya Nayak.

Also Read: SCOOP: Salman Khan considering reclaiming his traditional Eid slot with Battle Of Galwan; might clash with Toxic and Dhamaal 4

The makers of Border 2 are planning an unprecedented teaser launch event on Vijay Diwas on December 16, turning the occasion into a powerful blend of cinema, patriotism, and fan celebration. Timed with the historic day that commemorates India’s victory in the 1971 war, the teaser launch is being positioned as more than just a promotional activity it is envisioned as a nationwide tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of Indian soldiers. With large-scale planning underway, the event promises to be one of the most ambitious teaser unveilings in recent times.

At the heart of the celebration will be Mumbai, where fans will be the first to witness the Border 2 teaser on the big screen. The city will host a grand event featuring meticulously recreated battlefield sets inspired by war-zone conditions seen in the film. From trenches and bunkers to military-style layouts, the venue will offer an immersive experience, allowing attendees to step into the world of Border 2 even before the teaser rolls.

Adding to the spectacle, the makers are creating a live museum-style installation showcasing actual props used in the film. Costumes, military gear, and other authentic elements from the shoot will be displayed, offering fans a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the scale, realism, and craftsmanship involved in bringing the war drama to life.

The event will also mark a significant milestone as the Border 2 cast will be seen together publicly for the first time. Their joint appearance is expected to generate massive excitement, making the teaser launch a landmark moment in the film’s promotional journey.

Extending the celebration beyond Mumbai, the teaser will be screened simultaneously across multiple cities, ensuring fans nationwide experience the reveal at the same time. Adding an emotional layer to the evening, school children will present a special patriotic performance at the Mumbai event, reinforcing the spirit of Vijay Diwas and underlining the film’s tribute to the nation’s heroes.

Also Read : Border 2 teaser to be attached with Avatar: Fire and Ash in cinemas

The buzz around Dhurandhar has been translating into packed theatres, with post-midnight shows being introduced across Maharashtra due to overwhelming public demand. In Mumbai, cinemas have begun screening the film from as late as 12:45 am onwards, marking a rare but telling response to the unstoppable excitement surrounding the release.

The decision to add post-midnight shows was taken after advance bookings surged across multiplexes and single screens alike. The move underlines the strong word-of-mouth and pre-release anticipation that Dhurandhar has managed to generate. The trend is not limited to Mumbai alone. Pune has also joined the celebration, with post-midnight shows commencing from 12:20 am onwards starting today due to similar reasons—heavy booking and consistent inquiries from moviegoers keen to catch the film at the earliest possible hour. Similarly, the trend of post-midnight shows is also seen in Ahmedabad. But this is not the first time that Dhurandhar’s post-midnight shows have been added. The same happened last weekend as well (which was the film’s first weekend) and Bollywood Hungama was the first one to report on the same. Midnight and post-midnight shows are usually reserved for films that demonstrate exceptional demand, often driven by mass appeal and fan-driven momentum. The fact that Dhurandhar has achieved this across multiple cities reflects its strong pull among audiences and its ability to cut across age groups and demographics. Directed and written by Aditya Dhar, Dhurandhar has an ensemble cast of Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna, R Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, Sara Arjun and Rakesh Bedi. The film is produced under the banners of Jio Studios and B62 Studios.

Also Read: Rajkummar Rao and Zoya Akhtar praise Ranveer Singh’s performance in Dhurandhar

2024’s biggest blockbuster, Pushpa 2 – The Rule, opened with superstar Allu Arjun’s character making a dramatic entry at a port in Japan, hidden inside a container. More than a year later, Allu is finally set to head to the Far East country, this time legally, as he will take part in promotions ahead of the film’s Japan release.

Earlier this month, it was reported that Pushpa 2 - The Rule will have a release in Japan on January 16, 2026, under the title of Pushpa Kunrin. Geek Pictures announced that it’ll release the film in the Asian country along with Shochiku. A special, vibrant poster of Pushpa Kunrin was also unveiled, featuring Allu Arjun in his trademark flamboyant avatar, sunglasses on, floral shirts out, and swagger dialled all the way up. The Japanese-version trailer was also dropped on YouTube the same day.

As expected, the fans of Allu Arjun are excited to learn about this special release of Pushpa 2 - The Rule in Japan. A fan happened to wonder on Twitter if the superstar will be heading to Japan for the promotional event before release and also if he can ask Allu’s manager, Sarath Chandra Naidu, about it. Interestingly, Sarath replied, “Yes, he is”. What was significant was that Sarath Chandra Naidu was not even tagged, but somehow stumbled upon this tweet and even answered the fan query.

Yes, he is. — Sarath Chandra Naidu (@imsarathchandra) December 12, 2025

Needless to say, Sarath’s reply was widely shared and retweeted and it added to the excitement. This would probably be the first ever visit for Allu Arjun in Japan.

Another interesting bit is that a 200-minute version of Pushpa 2 - The Rule was released in India and worldwide. A month later, after the film became a certified record grosser, the makers released a 20-minute-extended version. As per the details released by Geek Pictures, it is this extended version, of 222 minutes, which will be released in Japan.

Also Read: Allu Arjun stuns in new BTS of Thums Up commercial: here’s why fans are obsessed

Actress and global dance sensation Lauren Gottlieb has stepped into a new phase of her life, and she’s done it in the most heartfelt way. Moving into her new home in Mumbai, Lauren chose to mark this joyous milestone by performing a traditional Grah Pooja, grounding the moment in positivity, blessings, and spiritual grace.

Lauren’s relationship with India has always been special, a bond that goes far beyond her successful career in the entertainment industry. Over the years, she has embraced Indian values, traditions, and spirituality as her own. She was once given the loving nickname Foreign Ki Lauren, but India has claimed her and she has happily claimed India right back. Her commitment to honoring Indian culture isn’t symbolic, it’s deeply personal, lived, and celebrated through moments like these over a span of 13 beautiful years.

“I’ve built a life here in India, made memories, and now I’m building a home here once again. Performing a Grah Pooja was my way of inviting peace, gratitude, abundance, and good energy into my new home in Mumbai from day one. India has given me so much love, purpose, and belonging over the years, and incorporating these traditions into my life feels incredibly natural now. In this moment, I just feel incredibly grateful for my journey, for the beautiful people in India who have embraced me like family, and for building a home rooted in positivity and culture. I’m excited for everything this new beginning brings," shares Lauren.

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From her unforgettable performances in ABCD and ABCD 2, to going from contestant to judge on Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, and countless hit music videos to proudly representing Indian cinema at global events, Lauren has consistently been a cultural bridge between India and the world at large. Her electrifying performance of 'Naatu Naatu' on the prestigious Oscars stage, merging both her roots in Bollywood and Hollywood, remains a moment of national pride, showcasing her love and dedication to India on one of the biggest stages ever.

This marks one of the most anticipated comebacks in recent memory. Our beloved dancing diva stepping back into her power, ready to take the world stage by storm once again.

Also Read: ‘Sajri’ girl Lauren Gottlieb feels India is home: “When I stepped foot in India, I went, ‘I’m home!’, I just connect with the people in India”

Google Trends’ 2025 ranking of the most-searched movies in India reveals a strong sweep by Hindi cinema. Titles like Saiyaara, War 2, Sanam Teri Kasam, Housefull 5, Mrs, and the animated epic Mahavatar Narsimha led the country’s search charts, signalling the continued influence of Bollywood across digital spaces. Yet despite this dominance at home, not a single Hindi film — or any Indian film — managed to enter Google’s global Top 10 searched movies list for the year.

In India, Hindi films clearly steered search curiosity. Saiyaara stood out as a top romantic musical and one of Mohit Suri’s most-talked-about releases. War 2, powered by Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR, held its position as one of the year’s most anticipated action spectacles. Sanam Teri Kasam resurfaced strongly thanks to the nostalgia around the 2016 original and renewed discussion ahead of its 2026 sequel.

Comedy franchise Housefull 5 maintained high online attention because of its ensemble cast and franchise legacy, while Mrs, headlined by Sanya Malhotra, sparked conversations for its layered storytelling and digital premiere. Meanwhile, Mahavatar Narsimha made a major impact as the biggest Indian animated success of the year, further fuelling the Hindi-dominant search landscape.

Even with South Indian juggernauts like Kantara Chapter 1, Coolie, Marco, and Game Changer also appearing in the India region list, Hindi titles emerged as the strongest cluster — but the absence of any Indian movie from the global Top 10 points to a demographic difference in what drives worldwide search trends.

As Indian cinema continues to expand its footprint through star-driven blockbusters and high-engagement OTT titles, the 2025 search data highlights a key contrast: strong national popularity doesn’t always translate into global trending status. With several major Hindi films slated for 2026, the coming year will determine whether any homegrown title can finally break into the worldwide search charts.

Also Read: Sony MAX announces World TV Premiere of Saiyaara on December 20

Diljit Dosanjh has officially confirmed his second collaboration with filmmaker Imtiaz Ali through a behind-the-scenes vlog shared from his ongoing shoot in Punjab. Posted on Instagram on Thursday, the video gives fans a rare peek into his daily routine and subtly reveals that he and Imtiaz are reuniting after the massive success of Amar Singh Chamkila.

In the vlog, Diljit is seen beginning his day at 4:30 am, followed by a workout session. He then has breakfast consisting of fruits and protein before heading to the shoot with his team. The video captures him filming in front of a green screen and sharing warm interactions with Imtiaz Ali, confirming that the director is once again helming Diljit’s next, currently untitled, project. After wrapping up the shoot, Diljit returns to a scenic haveli where he is staying during the film’s production. This upcoming film marks the duo’s second association after the critically acclaimed Amar Singh Chamkila, based on the life of the iconic Punjabi musician. Parineeti Chopra starred as Amarjot, Chamkila’s wife. Known as the “Elvis of Punjab,” Chamkila was celebrated for his electrifying performances, bold lyrical style, and cultural impact. His tragic assassination alongside Amarjot in 1988 remains one of Punjabi music’s greatest losses.

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Amar Singh Chamkila earned two nominations at the International Emmy Awards Best Actor for Diljit Dosanjh and Best TV Movie/Mini-Series. Despite not winning, the recognition spotlighted Punjabi and Indian storytelling globally and reinforced the enduring influence of Chamkila’s music. Diljit will next be seen in Border 2, the highly awaited sequel to J.P. Dutta’s 1997 classic. Directed by Anurag Singh, the film features Varun Dhawan, Ahan Shetty, and Diljit in key roles, portraying brave soldiers safeguarding the nation. Produced by T-Series and J.P. Films, Border 2 is slated to release on January 23, 2026, promising large-scale action, emotional intensity, and a patriotic storyline for today’s audiences. Also Read : Team Dhurandhar pulls off a masterstroke: Diljit Dosanjh’s ‘Ez Ez’ launched with live performance at music launch

Ramesh Sippy’s Sholay returns in an enhanced 4K version titled Sholay – The Final Cut, releasing on December 12 across more than a thousand theatres in its fully restored form, literally. The controversial replacement in the trailer of “James Bond” with “Tatya Tope” has also been reversed.

Clarifying the issue, Neeraj Joshi, in charge of Marketing & Strategy, says, “It was ‘Tatya Tope’ in the original version, and then ‘James Bond’ came in to give the dialogue a more viewer-friendly thrust. Now in the version being released, it’s ‘James Bond’ again.”

The new edition of this timeless classic, piloted by director Ramesh Sippy’s nephew Shehzad Sippy, retains its legendary stature, with exquisite production values, dialogues that have become an intrinsic part of India’s pop culture, and performances that remain endlessly resplendent.

Three vital sequences have been added in this restored version, viz. a scene where a brave Sachin Pilgaonkar confronts the dreaded Gabbar. (In the original cut, Sachin’s character Ahmed was shown riding through the ravines and later discovered as a corpse on a horse.)  A moment featuring Thakur’s faithful aide Ramlal (Satyen Kappu) hammering nails into the sole of Thakur’s shoe. And, of course, the spectacular finale where Thakur (Sanjeev Kumar) stomps Gabbar with his spiked shoes.

This gruesome yet glorious climax now ends with a deeply emotional moment of shared grief between Thakur and Veeru never seen before.

The restoration took three years to complete, says Shehzad Sippy, “All credit goes to the original cast and crew for the masterpiece they created, as well as the Film Heritage Foundation for the amazing restoration job they’ve done. I am just happy we have been able to put out the makers’ original vision fifty years later and preserve this classic for future generations. I hope everyone gets to see this on the big screen for the first and hopefully not the last time.”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Team of Sholay – The Final Cut lands in soup over 1,500-screen release claim; STRUGGLES to get 1,000 screens due to long length, HIGH rates & Dhurandhar wave

Kartik Aaryan sparked widespread speculation online after sharing a brief video featuring acclaimed Hollywood filmmaker Darren Aronofsky. Known for films such as Black Swan, Requiem for a Dream, The Wrestler, and the Academy Award–winning The Whale, Aronofsky’s appearance alongside the Bollywood actor immediately drew attention.

The buzz intensified when Aronofsky commented on Kartik’s post with, “Should we announce our collab here?” The light-hearted remark prompted curiosity about a potential project involving the two. While no official confirmation has been made, the exchange fuelled discussions about the possibility of a cross-industry collaboration.

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Kartik later posted an Instagram story describing the meeting and expressing his admiration, writing, “Black Swan, The Whale are some of my fav films and you are a legend my friend, it was lovely to have chai with you!! Can't wait for you know what.”

The interaction adds to Kartik Aaryan’s growing visibility outside India. In recent years, the actor has appeared at major international events and expanded his global outreach through endorsements and festival appearances. His meeting with Aronofsky has further contributed to the conversation around Indian performers taking on an increasingly prominent role in global entertainment.

Also Read: SCOOP: Trailer of Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri expected to be launched on December 15 in a GRAND event in the presence of Kartik Aaryan, Ananya Panday

The Bombay High Court has directed actor Shilpa Shetty and her husband, businessman Raj Kundra, to deposit Rs 60 crore or provide a continuous bank guarantee from a nationalised bank before it will consider lifting a Lookout Circular (LOC) restricting their foreign travel. This order came during a hearing on their urgent plea to visit London for Kundra's ailing father, who is undergoing serious medical treatment. The bench of Justices AS Gadkari and RR Bhonsale emphasised the need to demonstrate bona fides amid doubts about their return to India.

The LOC stems from a Rs 60.48 crore fraud complaint filed by Deepak Kothari, Director of UY Industries Pvt Ltd, alleging the couple induced him to invest in their now-defunct Best Deal TV Pvt Ltd between 2015 and 2023. Kothari claims the funds, provided as a loan with Shetty's personal guarantee, were misused amid heavy business losses, with no recovery despite repeated demands. The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of Mumbai Police is investigating, having issued the LOC to ensure the couple's availability.​

Senior Advocate Abad Ponda, representing the couple, argued against depositing the full amount, suggesting surety or a reasonable alternative, and stressed the trip's medical urgency with a firm return commitment. The bench rejected partial measures, insisting on the entire sum via deposit or bank guarantee, and scheduled further instructions for next week. The couple denies criminality, calling the case malicious and aimed at extortion by tarnishing their reputation.

Best Deal TV, launched in 2015 with endorsements from Shetty and ex-partner Akshay Kumar, collapsed after burning Rs 100 crore in 18 months, fuelling allegations of fund diversion to personal expenses or linked entities. No arrests have occurred, but prior pleas for quashing the FIR or LOC relief were denied without repayment. The case highlights rising scrutiny on celebrity-backed ventures post-demonetisation business failures.

Also Read: Shilpa Shetty, Raj Kundra move Bombay HC seeking travel permission amid father’s health crisis in London

Actor Kritika Kamra has just made her relationship with one of India’s most loved cricket hosts and content producers, Gaurav Kapur, Instagram official. The actress shared a set of warm, candid pictures from a cosy breakfast date with Gaurav, subtly confirming their romance that fans had been speculating about for months on social media platforms.

Kritika kept the caption understated yet playful, writing only “breakfast with…”, a gentle nod to Gaurav Kapur’s massively popular show Breakfast with Champions. The long-format series, known for its intimate conversations with India’s biggest sporting icons, has made Gaurav one of the most recognisable names in cricket entertainment.

The couple, who have been going steady for the last few months, looked relaxed and happy in the photos, a rare glimpse into their otherwise private equation. With this post, Kritika has officially taken the relationship public.

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While neither of them has spoken openly about their relationship until now, the post marks a sweet new chapter for the two, confirming what many had sensed already.

Also Read: Kritika Kamra celebrates the power of female-crafted storytelling as she leads Anusha Rizvi’s The Great Shamsuddin Family: “A privilege to be centered in a woman’s story”

The battle over the late industrialist Sunjay Kapur’s Will, has already become one of the most closely watched legal disputes considering its connection to Sunjay’s children with actress Karisma Kapoor, Samaira and Kiaan. It has further intensified in the Delhi High Court as new arguments cast doubt on the credibility of Priya Kapur’s defence.

Senior advocate Mahesh Jethmalani, representing Samaira and Kiaan, dismantled Priya Kapur’s long-standing claim that her 2023 exit from Automotive India Pvt Ltd (AIPL) was a consensual “position swap” with Sunjay. Instead, he described her removal on 31 May 2023 as a direct fallout of marital discord—arguing that corporate filings reveal she neither became Managing Director of Raghuvanshi Investment Pvt Ltd (RIPL) nor held any role in the company.

According to Jethmalani, “Priya was never made the MD of RIPL… She was removed from AIPL,” countering her assertions of a smooth corporate restructuring. The absence of any parallel appointment, he said, undermines her narrative of a stable blended family and seamless transition—an especially relevant point given her repeated references to cordial ties with Karisma Kapoor’s children.

What followed Sunjay’s death in June 2023 is now under even sharper scrutiny. Records presented in court show Priya Kapur was appointed as a director of AIPL a day after his passing, and reinstated herself as Managing Director within a week. Jethmalani argued this reflected not continuity, but opportunism: “She was not in control when Sunjay was alive. She sought control only after his passing.”

The corporate timeline, the plaintiffs argue, aligns too conveniently with the sudden appearance of a contested Will—a document central to determining the legal rights of Sunjay’s heirs, including Karisma’s children.

Complicating matters further is the conduct of the named executor Shradha Suri Marwah, who, according to submissions, neither pursued probate nor took charge of Sunjay’s assets as required. Jethmalani contended that an executor cannot selectively enforce parts of a Will. The court was also told that Shradha claimed to have “deleted” a crucial email attachment containing the alleged Will—despite the email itself being produced in court.

“You cannot delete the attachment without deleting the email,” Jethmalani argued, highlighting what he described as an “impossible explanation” and pointing to the suspicious disappearance of a supporting document that appeared in an earlier email but not in the final version.

With the matter listed again for December 22, the court will continue to examine inconsistencies around Priya’s corporate role, post-death actions, and the missing attachment—issues that now lie at the heart of a dispute carrying significant implications for Sunjay Kapur’s children, his legacy, and the businesses he once helmed.

Also Read: Karisma Kapoor renews Rs 66 lakhs Bandra apartment lease amid battle over Sunjay Kapur’s Rs 30,000-crores estate: Report

Singer Sonu Nigam has reportedly leased out a premium commercial property near Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) for a total rental value of Rs 12.61 crores over a five-year period, as per property registration documents reviewed by Square Yards. The development has not been officially confirmed by the singer or his representatives.

According to the documents, the leased office space is located at Trade Centre BKC in Santacruz East and measures approximately 4,257 sq ft. The property has been taken on lease by Pattni Hospitality, the company behind the Downtown 29 café and bar brand, which has a presence in Mumbai’s hospitality circuit.

The lease agreement was registered on December 2, 2025. As per the registration details, stamp duty of Rs 3.27 lakhs and a registration fee of Rs 1,000 were paid for the transaction. The deal also includes a security deposit of Rs 90 lakhs.

The rental arrangement reportedly begins at Rs 19 lakhs per month for the first year. From the second year onwards, the agreement includes a 5.26 per cent escalation, taking the monthly rent to around Rs 20 lakh in Year 2, with proportionate increases continuing over the remaining lease term.

Trade Centre BKC is among the prominent commercial developments in the Santacruz East–BKC belt, an area that has seen sustained demand from corporate offices, financial institutions, and hospitality brands due to its proximity to Mumbai’s financial district.

Also Read: Sonu Nigam delivers 3-hour power-packed set at Satrangi Re Hyderabad; extends concert after fans demand more

Rajkumar Hirani’s blockbuster film 3 Idiots, starring Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor, R. Madhavan, and Sharman Joshi, first released in 2009. Even after 15 years, the film continues to be celebrated for its humor, memorable performances, and strong social message, making it relevant for audiences across generations. Now, fans of the iconic movie have a reason to rejoice as the story is set to return with a sequel.

According to a report by Pinkvilla, the script for 3 Idiots 2 has been finalized by Rajkumar Hirani, and the project is slated to go on floors in 2026. The sequel will bring back the original star cast, including Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, R. Madhavan, and Sharman Joshi, promising to recreate the magic that made the first film a cult classic.

While Hirani had been toying with the idea of a sequel for a long time, he decided to revisit it only recently after his Dadasaheb Phalke biopic went on hold. “He dedicated time to expand the 3 Idiots sequel into a full-fledged screenplay. Hirani always had a seed of an idea for 3 Idiots 2, but he wanted it to be perfect and something that would stand up to the legacy of the original," an insider revealed.

The report also mentions that Aamir Khan and Rajkumar Hirani have temporarily shelved the Dadasaheb Phalke biopic as they aren’t satisfied with the script.

While details of 3 Idiots 2’s storyline are still under wraps, it is expected to follow the original characters fifteen years later, exploring their journeys with a mix of humor, emotion, and life lessons. The announcement has already created massive excitement among fans, who are eager to witness the reunion of Rancho, Farhan, Raju, and Pia. With Hirani at the helm, the sequel is expected to honor the legacy of the original while adding fresh humor and emotional depth.

Also Read : Aamir Khan gets candid on finding love with Gauri Spratt at 60: “She brings a lot of calm, she brings a lot of steadiness”