Indus Chronicles

Actor, filmmaker, and humanitarian Randeep Hooda has once again stepped forward to support people affected by a natural calamity, this time by visiting flood-hit Assam to take part in relief operations. Teaming up with Global Sikhs, an NGO he has been associated with for several years, the actor spent two days in Sivasagar, one of the regions worst impacted by the floods, helping families who have been displaced by the disaster.

Over the past week, Global Sikhs has been carrying out extensive relief work across the flood-affected districts of Assam by providing food, shelter, and other essential supplies. Randeep joined the volunteers on the ground and actively participated in distributing ration kits, freshly cooked meals, mattresses, tarpaulins, bedding, toiletries, and other household essentials to families taking shelter at the Sivasagar Railway Station after their homes in nearby villages were submerged.

This is not the first time the actor has collaborated with Amarpreet Singh-led Global Sikhs during a humanitarian crisis. Randeep has worked closely with the organisation over the years and has previously participated in relief operations during the Punjab floods last year, the Kerala floods in 2018, and at border migrant camps in Nowshera, where he helped distribute relief material to people affected by border conflicts and natural disasters. His continued involvement reflects his long-standing commitment to humanitarian service.

Sharing his experience after interacting with the affected families, Randeep Hooda said, “Whenever you stand amidst people who have lost their homes, their belongings and, in many cases, their sense of security overnight, you realise how fragile life can be. These families aren't looking for sympathy; they're looking for support, dignity and hope. Spending these two days in Sivasagar with the Global Sikhs has been an incredibly humbling experience. I've been associated with the organisation for many years now, and what continues to inspire me is the spirit of selfless service with which every volunteer works. They don't ask where someone comes from, what language they speak or what faith they follow they simply see people in need and step forward to help. That, to me, is the true essence of humanity.”

He further added, “The scale of the devastation here is heartbreaking. Meeting children, elderly people and entire families who have been forced to leave everything behind reminds us that disasters don't discriminate. What they need immediately are essential food, clean water, shelter, medicines, bedding and above all, the reassurance that they haven't been forgotten. I sincerely urge everyone keep Humanity above everything else and contribute in whatever way they can, whether through donations, volunteering or simply supporting credible organisations working on the ground.”

Apart from participating in the relief work, Randeep also visited the Gurudwara Sahib in Sivasagar, where he offered prayers for the safety and well-being of those affected by the floods, as well as for the volunteers and rescue personnel engaged in ongoing relief efforts.

By personally travelling to the affected region and contributing his time alongside volunteers, Randeep Hooda has continued his association with Global Sikhs in supporting communities facing difficult circumstances. His participation highlights the importance of collective humanitarian efforts and encourages more people to come forward and assist those rebuilding their lives after the devastating floods.

Also Read : 12 years of Kick: RARE pictures, UNTOLD anecdotes from Sajid Nadiadwala’s blockbuster – Salman Khan’s childhood pictures were studied and animators COPIED his comic nuances, Randeep Hooda needed 27 takes for his first shot and ZERO retakes later…

After a three-year absence from the big screen, superstar Shah Rukh Khan will return this year with the highly anticipated action entertainer, King. A special announcement promo unveiled in January confirmed that the film would arrive in cinemas on December 24. In recent weeks, however, speculation has been rife that King might miss its scheduled release and be pushed to 2027. Bollywood Hungama has now learnt that there are no plans to postpone the film and that King remains firmly on track to release on December 24, 2026.

Significantly, King will arrive amid three major Hollywood releases. December 18 will witness the epic clash between Avengers: Doomsday and Dune: Part Three. Avengers: Doomsday is expected to take a thunderous start; in fact, the extraordinary box office performance of Spider-Man: Brand New Day has further underlined the massive demand for Marvel films among Indian moviegoers.

In comparison, Dune: Part Three is likely to appeal to a relatively niche audience. However, the Rs. 27.86 crore lifetime business of Dune: Part Two (2024) indicates that the franchise has a significant following in India. Moreover, its release in IMAX is expected to further boost its box office prospects.

Finally, Jumanji: Open World is part of a franchise with strong mass appeal. The previous two instalments collected more than Rs. 50 crores each at the Indian box office, and expectations are therefore high from the Dwayne Johnson, Jack Black, Kevin Hart and Karen Gillan-starrer.

A trade source commented, “In India, King will have an edge as it is a Hindi film starring Shah Rukh Khan and several other prominent actors. Among the Hollywood releases, Avengers: Doomsday will pose the strongest competition, as the franchise is now one of the biggest in India. Internationally, however, all three Hollywood films are major releases with blockbuster potential. This is where King could face some challenges in securing an adequate number of screens.”

The trade source continued, “However, only a film of King’s calibre can take on such Hollywood giants. Shah Rukh Khan is the biggest Indian star overseas. Moreover, Yash Raj Films is distributing King in international markets. They will surely leverage their years of experience and goodwill to secure the best possible screens and show timings.”

An industry insider remarked, “Many were hoping that King would release in 2027. However, that would probably have meant waiting until after April or May. Love & War is scheduled to release on January 21, while the holy month of Ramzan begins in the first week of February. This will be followed by major releases such as Spirit on March 5 and Varanasi on April 7. By arriving during Christmas, King may initially face some screen-sharing issues. On the positive side, however, it won’t face any fresh competition until Republic Day. If the word of mouth is as strong as expected, the sky is the limit for the film.”

One section of the exhibition ecosystem that remains concerned is the single-screen sector. A theatre owner, speaking on the condition of anonymity, sighed, “It will undoubtedly be a beneficial period for the box office. We only hope that distributors and studios do not arm-twist us or force us to screen just one film.”

Also Read: SCOOP: Shah Rukh Khan fetches Rs 50 crore for King music; One of the biggest deals of recent time

Friendship Day is often celebrated by expressing gratitude to close friends, but actor Kajol chose to mark the occasion with a different perspective. Instead of dedicating the day to someone else, the actress used the opportunity to reflect on the importance of self-love, reminding her followers that the most enduring friendship is the one people share with themselves.

Taking to Instagram on Friendship Day, celebrated on August 2, Kajol posted a nostalgic collection of throwback photographs along with an emotional note. In her message, she described her "best friend" as someone who has been with her since birth, revealing that it took her years to truly appreciate and understand that person. The actress shared that she now recognizes the value of this lifelong companion and has made a promise to always stand by and love her.

Sharing her thoughts, Kajol wrote, "Happy friendship day to the one who has stood by me since I was born and before .. it took so long for me to realise how precious she was and how much she fought for me even when I didn’t see it .. I see her now .. and I know her and love her so much more… and last of all I promise to love her and fight for her as well forever."

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Her post struck a chord with many social media users, who filled the comments section with heart emojis and messages of appreciation. Several fans agreed with her reminder that every meaningful friendship begins with learning to value oneself.

Kajol has often celebrated Friendship Day by acknowledging the people who have played important roles in her life. Over the years, she has shared warm moments with her close circle, including longtime friends from the film industry such as Shah Rukh Khan and Karan Johar, both of whom have shared memorable professional and personal bonds with the actress.

The actress has also taken a light-hearted approach to such occasions in the past. On National Best Friend Day last year, Kajol jokingly introduced her "best friends" to fans, revealing that they were her coffee, crochet, and books. Explaining why she had no pictures with them, she wrote, "I couldn't get any pictures coz I was spending time with my best friends, and they really don't get social media....my coffee, my crochet, and my books."

With this year's Friendship Day post, Kajol once again offered a thoughtful message, encouraging her followers to appreciate themselves just as much as they value the people around them.

Also Read : Kajol expresses gratitude to her parents in emotional National Parents’ Day post

On the occasion of Friendship Day, actor Varun Sharma has exclusively spoken about his upcoming film, Side Heroes, a promising story celebrating friendship and centred on three friends. He assured audiences that it is not merely a maddening comedy but also explores important aspects of life. He further drew parallels with the iconic friendship film Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011).

Varun Sharma said, “Side Heroes is not just a hilarious friendship film. It’s like Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara – it makes us realize what truly matters in life, success and views happiness with a fresh lens.”

Side Heroes is backed by Imtiaz Ali, Mahaveer Jain and Mrighdeep Singh Lamba. Besides Varun Sharma, the film also stars Abhishek Banerjee and Aparshakti Khurana. A few days ago, Bollywood Hungama exclusively revealed that a fresh face has been cast as the female lead in this coming-of-age friendship film.

Set in the heartland of India, Side Heroes tells the poignant yet comical story of three childhood friends who reconnect at a reunion after 15 years of distance and silence. It is an entertaining tale about friends rediscovering the true meaning of happiness while exploring themes of dreams, love, memories and life.

Meanwhile, another major update is that Side Heroes is being planned for release on Friendship Day 2027. Considering the film’s theme, the release date couldn’t have been more appropriate.

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After Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara gave audiences road trips and poetry in 2011, Side Heroes promises to offer the 2027 generation meme culture, small-town roots and a reminder that we often become the heroes of our own lives because of the “side heroes” who stand beside us.

Also Read: Aparshakti Khurana, Abhishek Banerjee and Varun Sharma unveil friendship anthem ‘Kahaan’

On the occasion of Friendship Day, actor Varun Sharma has exclusively spoken about his upcoming film, Side Heroes, a promising story celebrating friendship and centred on three friends. He assured audiences that it is not merely a maddening comedy but also explores important aspects of life. He further drew parallels with the iconic friendship film Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011).

Varun Sharma said, “Side Heroes is not just a hilarious friendship film. It’s like Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara – it makes us realize what truly matters in life, success and views happiness with a fresh lens.”

Side Heroes is produced by Imtiaz Ali, Mahaveer Jain and Mrighdeep Singh Lamba. Besides Varun Sharma, the film also stars Abhishek Banerjee and Aparshakti Khurana. A few days ago, Bollywood Hungama exclusively revealed that a fresh face has been cast as the female lead in this coming-of-age friendship film.

Set in the heartland of India, Side Heroes tells the poignant yet comical story of three childhood friends who reconnect at a reunion after 15 years of distance and silence. It is an entertaining tale about friends rediscovering the true meaning of happiness while exploring themes of dreams, love, memories and life.

Meanwhile, another major update is that Side Heroes is being planned for release on Friendship Day 2027. Considering the film’s theme, the release date couldn’t have been more appropriate.

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  A post shared by Mahaveer Jain Films (@mahaveerjainfilms)

After Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara gave audiences road trips and poetry in 2011, Side Heroes promises to offer the 2027 generation meme culture, small-town roots and a reminder that we often become the heroes of our own lives because of the “side heroes” who stand beside us.

Also Read: Aparshakti Khurana, Abhishek Banerjee and Varun Sharma unveil friendship anthem ‘Kahaan’

Sonu Nigam opened up about his career, the ups and downs, and much more in a conversation on the YouTube show 'Game Changers with Komal Nahta'. At one point during the conversation, he talked about the controversial time in his career when he was banned by music companies for raising the copyright battle.

Sonu said, “I used to release album after album. Log pagal hote the. Things were going great. Then, I raised the copyright issue due to which the music companies banned me. They stopped working with me. People used to say ‘Yeh toh activist ho gaya hai’ (smiles). The people of those same companies now pay royalty to us and come to my house for a meal.”

He analyzed the reason behind his step, “Somebody had to bell the cat. Bhagwan ne mujhe sirf gaane ke liye nahin banaya tha. God made me for the movement that Lata Mangeshkar ji had started, but it didn’t reach its logical conclusion. That’s why God told me, ‘Tu apne peak par apne career ko chod dega. Aur tu yeh panga lega. Tu nahin lega toh kisi mein guts nahin honge. Tu yeh panga le sakta hai’.”

Komal Nahta asked whether he was scared at that time. Sonu replied in the negative and explained, “I never imagined that I’ll be banned. Maine socha tha ki hum isme mein se nikal jaayenge. Lekin cheezein kharab hoti gayi (smiles). When I saw that all doors were shutting down, I knew that stage pe toh main tod raha hoon. Mat do gaana, stage pe toh tum mujhe rok hi nahin paaoge.”

When asked how things got better, Sonu Nigam said, “Laws changed. Music companies realized that ‘Sonu has never been wrong’. Then, times changed. My relation got better with the music companies. Ab toh ‘bhai’ ke ilawa baat hi nahin hoti. I guess we all had to go through the experience. The bitterness that they had for me has gone away.”

Also Read: Salman Khan shares heartfelt post for Sanjay Dutt; calls him ‘mera bada bhai’ in emotional note

Ramanand Sagar’s Ramayan is arguably the most popular show in the history of Indian television. He and his family subsequently created several more devotional series for the small screen. While some of these shows had a significant cultural impact, their influence remains largely unknown. One such series was Mahima Shani Dev Ki, produced by Ramanand Sagar’s grandson Shiv Sagar and written by his son Prem Sagar, who is also Shiv’s father. Titled Mahima Shani Dev Ki, it was an overnight success and topped the charts for a long time. As per the website of Sagar World, “the number of Saturn (Shani) temples went up by 400% in the entire country due to the impact of the show, which for the first time showed Shani in a positive light as a planet of justice and punishment, versus a harsh planet that everyone was afraid of!”

The show’s impact mirrored the cultural phenomenon witnessed after the release of Jai Santoshi Maa (1975), often described as one of the biggest return-on-investment successes in Indian cinema. In a May 2025 article published by The Times of India to mark the film’s 50th anniversary, it was noted that anthropologist Veena Das had written in 1981 about how Santoshi Ma temples proliferated following the movie’s success, “not only in metropolitan cities but also in pilgrim cities like Varanasi”. She explained, “After watching the film, many bhakts wanted to visit a Santoshi Mata mandir to express their devotion, to do fasting rituals or just sit there to pay obeisance. That’s why so many mandirs came up at that time.” Mahima Shani Dev Ki appears to have created a similarly extraordinary cultural impact.

In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, Shiv Sagar revealed, “My dad, Prem Sagar, conceived that show in 1992. He went to my grandfather and expressed the desire to make a show on Shani. My grandfather asked him, ‘Yeh kaun dekhega? Shani se toh sab log darte hai’.”

He added, “But in 2008, we got an opportunity. For the first time, we cast a positive face – Daya Shankar Pandey – for Shani. Until then, makers had usually portrayed Shani in an aggressive or negative avatar. Meanwhile, our take was very different on the show. If you’ve done something wrong and Shani is the God of Justice and Punishment, He’s just doing His job. So, don’t blame Him. Blame yourself for indulging in some wrongdoing (laughs)!”

Shiv continued, “This take was different and it worked. Then, so many other shows came on Shani Dev. There was a show on Colors TV as well. But we were the original creators in 2008 for NDTV Imagine.”

He also stated, “That show did very well. It ran for 4 years and always topped the charts. Then it was aired on Dangal TV because Manish R Goswami ji had acquired the rights. Even on Dangal, it was the number one show. Meanwhile, Dangal was the number one FTA channel in India, courtesy all the Sagar shows.”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Ramanand Sagar’s grandson Shiv Sagar shares FASCINATING trivia: “Vikram Aur Betaal cost Rs. 1 lakh per episode; it was shot and edited in our garage as we COULDN’T afford elaborate sets”

Mrunal Thakur is keeping herself far away from the basics of fashion, and it’s clearly working for the Dacoit star. One look at her western wardrobe, and you’d see how she’s adding flair to it with a plethora of colours, patterns, fabrics and aesthetics. As she celebrates her birthday today, here’s looking at the times she dramatised her western wardrobe.

Blacked Out: Mrunal dons a fitting, straight black outfit with strapless shoulders, offering a silhouette that accentuates her curves. The actress keeps it richly sophisticated by pairing her ensemble with contrasting drop earrings, styling her hair in a slick bun and glamming up with striking deep kohled eyes that add character.

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Denim-ed Up: Thakur offers a new twist to denims by donning a checkered midi dress featuring floral embroidery. Keeping it neat and simply letting the outfit take centre stage, the actress styles her look with minimal jewellery and completes it all with black stilettos.

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Pastel Aesthetics: Mrunal Thakur keeps it modernly urban and aesthetically pleasing by donning a striped wrap dress featuring balloon sleeves. The actress styles her hair in messy beach waves, accessorises her look with minimal jewellery and completes her look with brown pumps.

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Striped Affair: Mrunal Thakur chooses a pop of colour to brighten her fashion flair by donning a blue and white striped midi gown. Keeping the look clean and chic, the Sita Ramam actress styles her hair in a high ponytail, layers her look with contemporary jewellery and rounds up with golden heels.

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Golden Scaled: Mrunal Thakur redefines maximalist western fashion by donning a fitted black skirt with a modest thigh slit. But it is the exaggerated golden piece that defines the outfit’s no-nonsense mood, making it a standout as a whole. The actress styles her hair in a clean bun, accessorises her look with contemporary, golden earrings and brings her attire full circle with black heels.

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Chic in Black: Mrunal Thakur keeps it minimal yet stylish in a one-shouldered, crumpled bodice paired with a free-flowing skirt in the hues of red, black, cream and everything in between. The actress styles her hair straight and accessorises her attire with contemporary earpieces and stacked bracelets.

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Which of these western looks of the birthday girl are your favourites?

Also Read: Leica India hosts Steve McCurry for an exclusive conversation with Kabir Khan; Mrunal Thakur, Anurag Kashyap also graced the occasion

Shah Rukh Khan is among the biggest superstars of Indian Cinema, whose starpower travels across the globe. After a spectacular theatrical run in 2023 with two blockbusters - Pathaan and Jawan, he returns on the big screen this Christmas with the Siddharth Anand directed King.

While the hype is at an all time high, Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learnt that the superstar is negotiating a record deal for the music rights of King. "With Sachin - Jigar on board, King music is among the hottest properties of the year. Sony, Sare Gama and T Series are making big bids to fetch the music. Leading the race is one of the above with an offer of around Rs 50 crore," a source told Bollywood Hungama.

This would mark the third biggest music deal of modern times after Ramayana and Dhurandhar 2. "King is setting records in non-theatrical business. It is on the verge of sealing one of the biggest deals ever for an original music album in Hindi. One must note that Ramayana is Rs 75 crore for both parts together, and King is on the verge of closing with Rs 50 crore with a single film," the source told us further.

Directed by Siddharth Anand, King is all set to hit the big screen during the Christmas 2026 weekend. The shoot is almost wrapped up, with just 15 days pending. The post production and edit work is going on in full swing too.

Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan’s King enters final phase of shoot; last international schedule planned for August: Report

A celebratory party was organised by the team of Main Vaapas Aaunga to mark the film’s completion of 50 days in cinemas, a remarkable feat in today’s times. The event was attended by director Imtiaz Ali; actors Naseeruddin Shah, Vedang Raina, Sharvari, Sanjay Suri, Rajat Kapoor and Manish Chaudhari; casting director Mukesh Chhabra; lyricist Irshad Kamil; producer Shibasish Sarkar; and others. Naseeruddin Shah’s presence added considerably to the excitement as the veteran actor seldom attends such events. Sharvari, who had been out of the country for a shoot while the film achieved this milestone, was another welcome presence.

The event began with Imtiaz Ali, Vedang Raina, Sharvari, Sanjay Suri, Manish Chaudhari and others informally meeting journalists. Then, Naseeruddin Shah entered and the journalists hooted for him. A mic was arranged and Imtiaz began on a funny note, “I want to say thanks to the media. Most of you are much younger than me and I don’t take you guys seriously at all! Also, most of you are just cinema buffs camouflaging as journalists!”

He then said, “The greatest pleasure today is that Naseer is here,” and handed him the mic.

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Naseeruddin Shah made it clear that he has no plans to retire, “Ever since I crossed 70, I’ve been receiving offers to accept a lifetime achievement award! I’ve turned down all of them because getting a lifetime achievement award means yeh lo award aur jaao! So, I’ve no intention of yeh lekar jaana (laughs)! That is why I don’t accept these awards because I don’t think my job is done. I feel very fortunate to be a part of this film. I am extremely proud of it. Thank you all for the support.”

Irshad Kamil raised laughs as he admitted, “When Imtiaz told me the film’s story, I wrote a poem and told them, ‘Yeh mere dimaag mein aaya hai’. Aur woh (poem) hum film mein nahin rakh paaye!”

But at the event, he uttered those lovely lines: “Ab bhi teri kaali zulfein kaandhe pe lehraati hai, ab bhi teri kaali zulfein kaandhe pe lehraati hai, meri umar ke saal athatthar, chhup gaye mere saafe mein!”

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Vedang Raina said, “I am very happy that Sharvari is back in India. It's very difficult to get hold of Sharvari these days. She’s very busy, touchwood! Finally, she’s here, celebrating with us. We missed you on every other day.”

Vedang was asked to sing the male portion of ‘Maskara’. He also shared a funny anecdote, “It was our 180th interview! I was asked to sing the song. I was all set to sing ‘Kahan Se’ when I wondered if I could sing another song. Imtiaz sir asked me if I knew the songs of Rockstar (2011). I did, and I sang. Right after the interview, somebody told me, ‘Hamare paas iss gaane ke rights nahin hai’! And the next interview, I was back to ‘Kahan Se’ (laughs)!”

Vedang then again added to the fun by remarking, “I am next to Naseer sir right now, and I must acknowledge that. Watching the film, I felt like ‘we were one person’! But I had barely seen him or met him. It's really special that we are here celebrating the success of the film and also the fact that he’s here. He’s one of the most important reasons for the success. I am very grateful.”

Due to public demand, Vedang did sing ‘Maskara’. Finally, Sharvari also took the mic and thanked the media for the support, “This film has become what it has become because of your love that poured in. From the bottom of my heart, I am so, so grateful to be receiving this love.”

Also Read: The new box office playbook? Why Bollywood stars are taking their films to audiences even after release

90s star Mamta Kulkarni has shared her thoughts on the recently released track ‘Rana Ji 2.0’, featuring Mahira Sharma. The song is a modern recreation inspired by the iconic ‘Mujhko Rana Ji Maaf Karna’ from the 1995 blockbuster Karan Arjun, starring Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Kajol, and Rakhee. The original number, which also featured Amrish Puri and Ranjeet, remains one of the most memorable chartbusters of the 1990s.

Reacting to the recreated version, Mamta appreciated Mahira Sharma’s performance while acknowledging that the new rendition adopts a completely different visual treatment from the original. “She has done a good job. The point is that you're watching a song that was originally in ghagra choli and Indian dance moves, now made in a western format and in a western outfit. So, it stands out. But the earlier song is etched in people's minds, so it immediately comes to your mind,” she told Variety India.

The actress also looked back at filming the original song and recalled how the choreography underwent last-minute changes despite multiple days of rehearsals. She shared, “The rehearsals were scheduled for two to three days. But I got the steps right on the first day itself. When I arrived on the set, the steps were changed. I asked him why he had changed the steps. I wondered what the point of the rehearsals was, but Chinni Prakash masterji was very good, and we wrapped up the song on time,”

Speaking about the enduring success of Karan Arjun, Mamta credited filmmaker Rakesh Roshan for bringing together a massive ensemble cast and delivering one of Bollywood’s biggest blockbusters. “I give credit to Rakeshji for completing such a complicated film with so many artists. Karan Arjun became a superhit. Whether it was ‘Jai Maa Kaali’, ‘Bhangda Paa Le’ or ‘Ek Munda Meri Umr Da’, people loved all the songs,” she added.

Mamta also revealed that she is open to making a comeback to acting, provided she finds a project that genuinely excites her. She went on to say, “I've been receiving acting offers. If I get a script I'm truly excited about, I'm ready to take it on."

However, the actress admitted that her spiritual journey has significantly influenced the kind of work she wishes to do now. While she cherishes the memories associated with ‘Mujhko Rana Ji Maaf Karna’, she believes she would not perform a similar song today because of its lyrics. “Of course, I won't be able to do a song like ‘Mujhko Ranaji Maaf Karna’ today with these lyrics. I'm spiritually conscious and awakened now. So, some songs don't work for me. I have to be more conscious of the lyrics than the dancing. Back in the day, I never thought about lyrics, as I was more focused on perfecting dancing steps. I was young and immature at that time,” she admitted.

Mamta Kulkarni’s remarks not only celebrate the lasting popularity of one of Bollywood’s most iconic songs but also reflect how her perspective has evolved over the years. While she remains appreciative of her cinematic legacy, the actress says her future choices will be guided by stories and characters that align with her current outlook and values.

Also Read: Mamta Kulkarni backtracks after saying Dawood Ibrahim “not a terrorist”; says, “I was referring to Vicky Goswami, not Dawood Ibrahim”

Producer Shailendra Singh recently shared an interesting anecdote about Salman Khan during a candid conversation with Cyrus Broacha. Recalling one of his visits to the superstar’s residence at Galaxy Apartments, Singh revealed how he witnessed Salman casually undergoing a hair treatment while enjoying a plate of biryani, leaving him completely surprised by the unusual sight.

Speaking about their regular get-togethers, Shailendra reminisced about the Monday night gatherings they often had at Salman’s home. He also revealed the actor’s unique habit of eating while looking into a mirror, with conversations often taking place through their reflections. “I went to Salman for a meeting at his place in Galaxy Apartments. In those days, we used to have Monday night parties. He was sitting at the dining table, eating, and looking at himself in the mirror. He likes to eat while looking in the mirror. There’s a small table in the kitchen with a mirror in front, so you’re sitting next to him, but you’re actually talking through the mirror,” he said.

The producer then recalled an unexpected moment when a man entered the room carrying medical equipment. As Salman continued eating his meal unfazed, the visitor began administering injections to the actor’s scalp. He recalled, “He’s sitting there eating biryani—you know Salman, he enjoys his food, especially after a few drinks. Suddenly, this strange-looking guy walks in, puts on gloves, takes out a needle and starts injecting his scalp. I’m watching all of this in the mirror and thinking, ‘What the f* is going on here?'”

According to Shailendra, Salman responded to his stunned reaction with complete ease, explaining that maintaining one's appearance comes with the demands of stardom. He went on to continue, “He just said, ‘There’s a price to pay to be a star, bro.’ He kept eating while the treatment continued.”

Looking back, the producer admitted he had no idea what procedure Salman was undergoing at the time. However, he noted that such treatments have now become increasingly common among actors dealing with hair thinning. “At that time, I didn’t know what it was. I think everyone does it now—Hrithik does it, everybody does it. As you grow older and your hair starts thinning, you have to do these things,” he added.

Shailendra Singh’s anecdote offers a rare glimpse into Salman Khan’s off-screen personality, highlighting the actor’s ability to remain completely at ease even while undergoing a cosmetic procedure. The story also sheds light on the lengths many actors go to in order to maintain their on-screen image, while balancing it with everyday moments as simple as enjoying their favourite plate of biryani.

Also Read: Salman Khan spotted on Alliance sets; sparks rumours of a special episode with Sohail Khan

Karan Johar, Apoorva Mehta and Prime Video’s Nikhil Madhok attended the launch of The Traitors Season 2 at a studio in Mumbai. The lavish and intriguingly themed event also saw the contestants of the new season being introduced for the first time – Rhea Chakraborty, Krystle D’Souza, Ranveer Brar, Mallika Sherawat, Shahneel Gill, Abhishek Malhan, Munawar Faruqui, Rida Tharana, Tanya Puri, Shalini Passi, Soundous Moufakir, Harman Singha, Ansh Chopra, Aditya Kulshreshtha aka Gullu, Karan Singh, Ikka, Parul Gulati, Shweta Tiwari, Prish, Sahil Salathia and Dalip Tahil.

Karan Johar, who’s also the host of the show and the producer, was asked whether he would be more unforgiving and ruthless than last season. He said, “My reputation precedes me! I won’t be forgiving. I’ll definitely be more ruthless. But we will never forget to be entertaining. That is the modus operandi for any popular show. “I am so proud that our show, The Traitors, is in its second season. You know, when you get the green light from a streamer, and there’s a Season 2, it only shows how popular Season 1 must have been for us to be validated with a second season (smiles).”

He then revealed, “This season shocked, surprised, appalled and even terrified me. I saw the level of betrayal, I saw the level of attack, I saw the level of manipulation and I saw the level of strategy that I was not expecting. When we say the show is called The Traitors and that it’s a game, trust me, it stopped being a game at some point… it became a dhamaka of betrayal. Literally, every night, there was an attack and there was a stab in the back. Emotions you won’t lack. And unlike other shows, the winner won’t be a hack.”

The last sentence seemed to be a dig at rival reality shows on other platforms. The fun further continued as Karan Johar said, “Prime Video is someone we love and we adore. And all I can say is that when we get locked up with Prime Video, there will always be an Alliance!”

The Traitors Season 2 will start streaming from August 13.

Also Read: Karan Johar shares heartfelt Guru Purnima note for Shah Rukh Khan and Aditya Chopra: “You both are the only reason I can tell stories today”

Actor Karishma Tanna spoke about one of the most personal decisions of her life, embracing parenthood, during her appearance on Neha Dhupia and Angad Bedi’s chat show Double Date. Karishma revealed that she and her husband, Varun Bangera, were initially hesitant about having a baby because of the uncertain state of the world.

From the COVID-19 pandemic to ongoing global conflicts, the couple questioned whether it was the right time to bring a child into the world. Karishma Tanna and Varun are now blessed with a baby boy.

Reflecting on their thought process, Karishma shared that the decision was not an easy one. She said, “I didn’t want a baby because I felt the world wasn’t ready for another child. There was COVID, there are wars happening, and so much uncertainty around us. We were genuinely confused about whether we should bring our baby into this world.”

Karishma added that despite their fears, they eventually chose to move forward with hope, saying, “But then, finally, we decided, and we are here now. We just want the best for our baby.”

Karishma’s admission on Double Date offered a glimpse into the emotional conversations many couples have before starting a family, particularly amid global uncertainty. While events around the world initially made the couple question parenthood, they ultimately chose to embrace the journey, with their focus now on providing the best possible future for their child.

Also Read: Karishma Tanna, Varun Bangera blessed with baby boy on auspicious Guru Purnima

Actress Kirti Kulhari has reportedly become the latest celebrity to fall victim to cyber fraud after unauthorized transactions amounting to Rs 2,43,852 were allegedly made using her credit card. Following the incident, the actress approached Mumbai Police, leading to the registration of a case against unidentified persons. Authorities have now launched an investigation to trace those responsible.

According to reports, the incident came to light while Kirti was at a multiplex near Fun Republic Mall in Andheri West, Mumbai. During her visit, she reportedly received an alert on her mobile phone informing her of a foreign transaction worth $2,525 on Aeromexico Airlines through her credit card. The unexpected notification immediately raised concerns, as the actress had not authorized any such payment.

Realizing the transaction appeared suspicious, Kirti is said to have contacted her bank's customer care helpline without delay. During the verification process, bank officials reportedly discovered that multiple unauthorized transactions had been carried out using her credit card. In total, four separate transactions had been processed without her consent, resulting in a financial loss of Rs 2,43,852.

As a precautionary measure, the bank immediately blocked the credit card to prevent any further misuse. The actress later filed a complaint with the Amboli Police Station, following which an FIR was registered against unknown accused under relevant sections pertaining to cyber fraud.

In her statement to the police, Kirti reportedly maintained that she had never shared her credit card password or confidential banking information with anyone. Investigators suspect that the fraud may have been executed through sophisticated digital methods, including the possible use of malware or spyware that compromised her phone or banking credentials. However, the exact modus operandi is yet to be determined.

The investigation has now been taken up by the Cyber Cell, which is working alongside local police officials to identify the perpetrators. Authorities are reportedly examining bank reference numbers, transaction records, and other digital footprints in an effort to trace those involved in the fraudulent activity.

The incident serves as another reminder of the growing threat posed by cybercrime, with online financial frauds increasingly targeting individuals through advanced hacking techniques.

On the professional front, Kirti Kulhari was last seen in the web-series Shekhar Home. She recently also celebrated a major milestone in her career after completing the shoot of her first feature film as a producer. Sharing the update with fans on social media, the actress reflected on the emotional journey behind the project.

Also Read: Kirti Kulhari and Rajeev Siddhartha make relationship official with New Year post

Salman Khan has added to the buzz surrounding Amazon Prime Video's reality series Alliance after being spotted on the show's sets. While there has been no official confirmation about the purpose of his visit, videos of the superstar arriving at the location have surfaced on social media, prompting speculation that he may be making a special appearance on the reality show.

Alliance has emerged as one of the most talked-about reality series in recent weeks, thanks to its mix of celebrity contestants, unexpected twists, and emotional moments. Among its prominent participants is actor-filmmaker Sohail Khan, who had earlier admitted that stepping into the world of reality television was something he was initially hesitant about.

The show recently witnessed one of its most emotional phases after Sohail's former wife, Seema Sajdeh, entered Alliance as a wildcard contestant. Her entry attracted considerable attention, offering viewers a glimpse into the former couple's present-day equation. During her stint on the show, Seema spoke candidly about her experiences before eventually being eliminated in an earlier eviction round.

Before leaving the competition, Seema shared that she found the atmosphere inside the show to be emotionally taxing and expressed her desire to return home to be with her children. Her departure visibly affected Sohail, with the actor struggling to hold back his emotions as she exited the competition.

Now, it appears another member of the Khan family could be stepping into the Alliance house. Several videos circulating online show Salman Khan arriving on the sets of the reality series, although neither the actor nor the makers have officially commented on whether he will feature in an upcoming episode.

Apart from his presence, Salman's look also caught the attention of fans. The superstar was seen sporting a western cowboy-inspired outfit, featuring a tucked-in blue shirt paired with faded black denims, a light brown cowboy hat, and his signature turquoise bracelet. His appearance quickly became a talking point across social media, with many fans praising the stylish look.

If Salman does make an appearance on Alliance, it is expected to be one of the season's biggest moments. Having successfully hosted Bigg Boss for several years, the actor is synonymous with reality television, and viewers will be eager to see whether he shares advice with Sohail or interacts with the contestants about their gameplay.

Hosted by Kunal Kemmu, Alliance features several well-known personalities from the entertainment industry, including Daisy Shah, Kushal Tandon, Aly Goni, Zaid Darbar, Mini Mathur, and Sohail Khan. With Salman Khan now reportedly entering the picture, anticipation surrounding the upcoming episodes has only intensified, even as fans await an official confirmation from the makers.

Also Read: Gauahar Khan slams Nikhil Chinapa over perimenopause remark on Alliance: “Get your facts right and please be sensitive to women”

In recent times, very few films have managed to generate as much excitement as Ramayana. The promotional campaign began nearly a year and a half before its release, in July 2025. Since then, the makers have organised events across the world, with several more expected to follow. Finally, the keenly awaited trailer was unveiled online on the morning of July 30. Bollywood Hungama got a sneak peek at the promo 10 days earlier at a multiplex in Mumbai, and it was evident that the experience was on another level when viewed on the big screen in 3D.

The earlier promotional asset focused on Lord Rama, played by Ranbir Kapoor, while the trailer introduces several other characters. However, the character which dominates the proceedings is Ravana, played by Yash. The trailer opens with him, and the manner in which he has been presented is sure to amaze viewers. His ferocious avatar and action sequences particularly stand out. Several actors have portrayed Ravana in the past, but Yash’s interpretation is distinctive, without a shred of doubt.

Meanwhile, Lord Rama, the Maryada Purushottam, also gets due prominence. Ranbir Kapoor’s performance appears graceful and divine, serving as the perfect contrast to Ravana’s arrogant persona.

Apart from Yash, Sai Pallavi also makes a striking appearance. As Sita, she appears suitably poised and convincing. Lara Dutta, Rakul Preet Singh, Ravie Dubey, Arun Govil and Vivek Oberoi also make their presence felt. Sadly, Sunny Deol’s Lord Hanuman does not feature in the four-minute-plus trailer. Nevertheless, there are no complaints, as the trailer offers enough to heighten the audience’s excitement for Ramayana.

The scale is spectacular, while the 3D effects are impressive. A particular sequence featuring Airavata, the divine white elephant, is especially stunning. Yet, a few shortcomings remain. The grandeur is comparable to that of Baahubali and perhaps does not surpass it. This may not be a major concern, but with reports suggesting that more than Rs. 1,000 crores have been spent on the film, one would have expected the scale and visual quality to be a notch higher. Thankfully, this is only a minor hiccup and is unlikely to affect the hype in any way.

The trailer is certain to attract massive viewership, and moviegoers will also get an opportunity to experience it in all its glory on the big screen with Spider-Man: Brand New Day. The superhero saga is expected to record the biggest opening ever for a Hollywood film in India. As a result, the Ramayana trailer will receive widespread exposure in cinemas, which is exactly how a spectacle of this magnitude deserves to be experienced. The trailer serves its purpose, and it goes without saying that the film is set to take a thunderous start during the Festival of Lights.

Ramayana stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman and Ravie Dubey as Lakshman. It is directed by Nitesh Tiwari of Dangal (2016) fame and produced by Namit Malhotra. The music is composed by A R Rahman and Hans Zimmer. It's a two-part saga with the first part releasing on Diwali 2026. As for the second part, it'll arrive on the big screen on Diwali 2027.

Also Read: T-Series bags music rights to BOTH parts of Ramayana for Rs. 75 crores in an advance deal

Actress and artist Elli AvrRam has unveiled ‘Ellness Life’, a new platform that reflects her personal journey of growth, healing, curiosity and self-expression. Described as more than just a platform, Ellness Life is envisioned as a space that encourages authenticity over perfection while inspiring people to reconnect with themselves and the world around them.

According to its vision, Ellness Life represents living with heart, mind, body and purpose, celebrating the beauty of becoming rather than striving for perfection. Through honest reflections, movement, dance, creativity, nature, mindfulness, wellness and conscious living, the initiative aims to encourage people to slow down, breathe and embrace everyday moments as opportunities for self-discovery.

The platform also underlines that growth is not limited to major life milestones but can be found in everyday choices—choosing kindness, presence, movement, gratitude, authenticity, curiosity and care for oneself, others and the Earth. It emphasises that every individual moves at their own pace, making the journey about personal progress rather than comparison.

Ellness Life is envisioned as a home for those seeking to become more conscious human beings. Inspiration on the platform will come in many forms, including thoughts, conversations, dance, paintings, walks in nature, books, quotes and even quiet moments over a cup of tea. Elli also plans to share mindful living practices, wellness and self-care, movement and dance, creativity, artistic expression, nature, personal reflections and experiences that continue to shape her life.

Speaking about the initiative, Elli AvrRam shared, “Ellness Life isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about staying curious enough to keep asking the questions. It’s where I’ll share the things that continue to inspire me to grow, to become more conscious, and to live with more heart. If something I share resonates with even one person, then this little seed has already begun to bloom.”

She further explained the purpose behind the platform, saying, “Ellness Life is not about becoming someone else. It’s about gently returning to who you’ve always been. This is for those who are on a similar path and aligns with it. It’s another side of mine that I have been sharing bits of throughout my years on my personal page elliavrram. And now I want to share more of what my interests are. And it’s for those who feel like being part of it. There’s the actress/artist Elli AvrRam who gets into characters and perform different dance numbers and shares bits about her world. And then there is Elli who is just a normal girl on an inner journey to figure out herself and life, like most of us are. So it will be a parallel page I’ll be handling while I continue my work in the entertainment.”

With Ellness Life, Elli AvrRam is opening a new chapter that runs parallel to her work in the entertainment industry, offering followers a deeper glimpse into the interests, practices and perspectives that have shaped her personal journey beyond the screen.

Also Read: Elli AvrRam on mental and physical well-being, “I must allow myself to switch off sometimes too!”

Alia Bhatt has joined several members of the entertainment industry in raising awareness about the ongoing flood crisis in Assam. The actress took to Instagram Stories to express concern over the devastation caused by the floods and appealed to her followers to come forward and support those affected.

In her note, Alia highlighted the scale of the humanitarian crisis, pointing out the loss of lives, widespread displacement, and the destruction faced by thousands of families. She also stressed the need for both immediate relief and long-term rehabilitation efforts. She wrote, “Right now, floods are affecting so many parts of our country with Assam being among the hardest hit, facing an incredibly challenging time. More than 60 lives have been lost. Lakhs of people have been displaced. Entire families have lost their homes, their land, their livestock... and for some, even the people they love. It happens every year and it still catches us off guard.”

The actress further revealed that she would be using her platform to share information about organizations involved in relief work on the ground and encouraged people to contribute in whatever way they could. The note also added, “Assam needs immediate relief right now, and it'll need support for the long road to recovery. If you've been wondering how you can help, I'll be sharing a few ways we can support relief efforts over the next few days, through organisations working on the ground. #CircleOfHope.”

Alia is among several celebrities who have spoken about the situation in Assam, with many taking to social media to amplify relief efforts and encourage donations. As rescue and rehabilitation operations continue, public figures have been using their platforms to draw attention to the needs of those affected by the disaster.

Every year, seasonal flooding impacts large parts of Assam, leading to significant damage to homes, agricultural land, and public infrastructure. This year's floods have once again displaced lakhs of residents, prompting relief agencies and volunteers to intensify rescue and support operations across the state.

On the professional front, Alia Bhatt was last seen in YRF's spy thriller Alpha, alongside Sharvari, Bobby Deol, and Anil Kapoor. She will next be seen in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Love & War, co-starring Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal. The film is currently slated for a theatrical release in January 2027.

With her latest appeal, Alia Bhatt has urged her followers to look beyond social media and contribute towards relief efforts, while emphasizing that communities affected by the Assam floods will require sustained support even after the immediate crisis subsides.

Also Read: Alia Bhatt delivers emotional speech at Akansha Ranjan and Sharan Sharma’s wedding; watch

Former actor Raja Chaudhary, the ex-husband of television actress Shweta Tiwari, has made a series of allegations regarding her personal life during a recent conversation with Siddharth Kanan. Speaking about the period when Tiwari was working on the popular television show Kasautii Zindagii Kay, Raja claimed that she was involved in a relationship with her co-star Cezanne Khan.

During the interview, Raja alleged that his suspicions about the two actors' relationship were based on incidents he claims to have witnessed at the time. "Not just Cezanne Khan. There are so many people. She had an affair with each and every person, I feel," he said.  He went on to elaborate on his allegations, claiming that people close to them had also spoken to him about the matter. “What I saw at that time was totally proven... yaar (friend), she was working with him. She was staying in his house. Even a common friend of ours confessed that she used to come here with him. What else can a man believe, yaar? Even he himself said yes, that we're in a relationship. Teri himmat hai toh tu aaja mere ghar, Koliwada (If you have the courage, come to my house in Koliwada).”

Raja further claimed that although he confronted the situation, he did not pursue a confrontation. "Ab main ye ladai karne baithunga kya tere sath (Am I supposed to sit and fight with you over this now)... but she never accepted. She said, 'No, no, we're just good friends.'” Recalling a phone conversation that he alleged took place with Cezanne Khan, Raja said, "He said this on the phone. I said, 'Why are you doing this? Why are you spoiling this family?' Bola, 'what family? She's never with you. Since day 1, she's with me. You're just his unpaid boy.' He said that. Be happy the way you're."

Speaking further, Raja questioned what he described as inconsistencies in Tiwari's whereabouts during that period. "Bhai (brother), you say you're going for a shoot, and the next day newspapers say you're in Delhi opening some showroom. What all does this indicate? In a relationship, you're lying and relying on this person with whom you're working. Maybe she got unbalanced between reel and real life. She mixed her reel life into real and real into reel. Usne kya socha hoga usse better toh koi nahi janta (No one knows better than her what she must have been thinking)."

Claiming that he personally witnessed incidents that strengthened his suspicions, Raja added, "Ye aapne aankhon se dekha. Ye proven hai (I saw this with my own eyes. For me, it was proven)." He further recalled one such incident, "She claimed she's going to shoot. Uske gadi mein mera kuch saman rakha tha (Some of my belongings were in her car), I went to pick them up. I went to the set. She wasn't there. But after an hour, she is coming in his car, and her car is followed by his driver." Raja also described another instance, "Second, she said I'm in a dubbing. I went to the dubbing to surprise her or something. Dubbing people said she's not there. There is no dubbing today. Where's she then? She's with Cezanne." According to him, there were multiple such occasions. "Two-three incidents happened like this."

He concluded by reiterating his allegations and claiming that dishonesty had damaged their relationship, "‘Aur isse zyada kya (What more proof do you need)?’ and you're not saying I'm with him. I'm somewhere else. Pile of lying. She lied about everything." Looking back on that phase of his life, Raja added, "What all I can say... I don't even remember. It took me a lot of time to get rid of this thought."

As of now, neither Shweta Tiwari nor Cezanne Khan has responded publicly to Raja Chaudhary's latest allegations. Their response is awaited.

Also Read: Palak Tiwari quips Shweta Tiwari is in her “teenage era”: “She steals my face masks”