Indus Chronicles

In an interview with BrandEquity, Hrithik Roshan spoke in detail about what it takes for a story to earn a greenlight under HRX Films. He also explained why, for him, the final stamp always comes down to the director’s complete adoption of the script.

Talking about his banner, Hrithik Roshan said, “HRX Films is a division of FilmKraft because that is the main school that I learned from. So, HRX Films operates under FilmKraft and it is the sweet spot between the commercial thinking of that school or my dad's school and content that is high on emotions, high on the nuances and HRX Films is about creating that sweet spot that brings both of these together.”

He explained, “Some big commercial films I have done are a community experience where you have the entire theatre clapping. But then there are some films that you watch just by yourself, and you feel fulfilled, you cry, and it changes you from the inside. It's cathartic and that catharsis, shall I say, I never get in a highly commercial banger of a film. That cathartic journey is always missed. So, HRX Films is an attempt to bring these two together and try to see if we can hit that sweet spot.”

Hrithik credited his cousin brother Eshaan, who identifies “the names, the scripts, the directors” and puts them through an in-office filtration, before it reaches Hrithik Roshan. He revealed, “There are times when I don't like the script, but he likes it a lot. So, he waits 6-8 months and brings it back to me. By that time, I have changed a little bit in my life and I am in a better position to actually recognize the beauty of the script.”

Hrithik then opened up about producing Storm and praised director Ajitpal Singh of Tabbar fame, “When I met Ajit, I just fell in love with him and his creative mind. I, honestly, told him, 'Whatever you will make I am with you'”.

On the question of creative control, Hrithik’s stance is blunt: “You are a fool if you think that you can inject your genius ideas without the acceptance of the director into his film…If you try to push something, bypassing him or forcing him to accept something that he doesn't feel fits into his film, you are being a fool. You are being unintelligent and you are self-sabotaging yourself because only the director will know what the entire painting is going to look like and whether that colour or that stroke is correct or wrong.”

Finally, Hrithik argued that Indian content is increasingly global, from the reach of Raj Kapoor and Mithun Chakraborty in Russia to the performance of Aamir Khan’s films in China, and the worldwide ripple of RRR. He pointed out the common ingredient in all these films – “There is an ingredient of integrity, conviction and a vision that is unadulterated. They are very truthful to the vision of that one director.”

Also Read: Hrithik Roshan vs Jr NTR comes home this Republic Day; War 2 gets its world TV premiere on Star Gold

Bhagam Bhag 2, the sequel to one of Bollywood’s enduring comedies, has seen a notable change in its cast as production advances toward a scheduled start. Reports emerging from industry sources indicate that Manoj Bajpayee will join stars Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal for the follow-up, while original cast member Govinda is not expected to return.

The original Bhagam Bhag (2006) featured Akshay Kumar, Govinda and Paresh Rawal in memorable comic roles and became a cult favourite over the years. As the sequel moves closer to production, the casting list is shifting. According toa report by Variety India, acclaimed actor Manoj Bajpayee is set to take on a significant role alongside Kumar and Rawal.

Govinda, who played one of the lead comic roles in the first film, is reportedly not part of the new instalment. The report noted that discussions with him did not materialise into a confirmed role for Bhagam Bhag 2, and the casting change marks a departure from early expectations.

The sequel will be directed by Raaj Shaandilyaa, known for his work on commercially successful comedies. Filming is expected to begin soon in Mumbai, with the production following an accelerated schedule after months in development.

Meenakshi Chaudhary has been reported as the female lead opposite Akshay Kumar, adding fresh talent to the ensemble. In bringing Bajpayee into the fold, the makers appear to be balancing nostalgia with new creative energy.

Bhagam Bhag was directed by Priyadarshan and featured a story that mixed slapstick humour with situational comedy, rooted in a theatre troupe’s misadventures. Its success has made the sequel one of the more anticipated comedy projects in recent years.

While exact plot details for Bhagam Bhag 2 have not been officially disclosed, the casting developments suggest the film will aim for a blend of familiar dynamics and new character interactions. As preparations continue, more details on the storyline and supporting cast are expected to emerge, offering clearer insight into how the sequel will pay homage to its predecessor while charting a new course for contemporary audiences.

Also Read: Petition filed in Delhi HC to stay Manoj Bajpayee starrer Ghooskhor Pandat over offensive title claim

After the anticipation around Shah Rukh Khan’s upcoming film King reaches its peak, fresh reports suggest that the actor’s next project could be a sequel to one of his most beloved films, Main Hoon Na. According to an exclusive from Pinkvilla, discussions between Khan and filmmaker Farah Khan are progressing, pointing to Main Hoon Na 2 as a strong contender for his post-King slate.

Shah Rukh Khan and Farah Khan to reunite If realised, this sequel would mark a reunion between Shah Rukh Khan and Farah Khan after nearly 12 years. Their collaborations in the past — including Om Shanti Om (2007) and Happy New Year (2014) — delivered significant box office results and helped define the commercial cinema of their respective eras.

Sources quoted in the report say Farah Khan has devised an “exciting double-role concept” specifically for Khan. “Farah Khan has cracked an exciting double-role concept for Shah Rukh Khan, which has excited the superstar,” one insider told Pinkvilla. “The idea is said to elevate the emotion and entertainment quotient of the sequel, while SRK will explore two contrasting characters.” Main Hoon Na original cast to return for sequel According to the report, the sequel will retain the emotional core of the original while expanding its scope. The central narrative is expected to revolve around a new threat to India, blending elements of patriotism with action and comedy — a combination that helped make the 2004 original memorable. “The film will be a patriotism galore, with the original cast returning,” the source added.

The screenplay is being shaped under writer Aakash Kaushik, with the core story reportedly coming from Shah Rukh Khan himself. In addition to the return of some original cast members, the production team is also considering introducing new faces, preserving nostalgia while broadening the film’s appeal.

Production timelines are yet to be confirmed. Insiders indicate that Shah Rukh Khan is expected to hear the complete narration after he finishes shooting King, which is scheduled to wrap around May 2026. After the narration, Khan will make a final decision on whether to green-light Main Hoon Na 2.

This cautious approach reflects the gravity of attempting a sequel to a film that holds a special place for fans of Hindi cinema. The original Main Hoon Na blended action, drama, and light-hearted moments to become a cultural touchstone, and expectations around its follow-up are similarly high.

While Main Hoon Na 2 remains in an advanced development phase rather than actively in production, industry watchers see the reports as a strong indicator of where Shah Rukh Khan’s career may head after King.

Also Read: Next On Netflix 2026: 23 years after Kal Ho Naa Ho, Shah Rukh Khan, Saif Ali Khan reunite for Kartavya; Mismatched: Season 4 helmed by Jayeshbhai Jordaar director Divyang Thakkar

Ranveer Singh-starrer Dhurandhar continues to draw strong viewership on OTT, cutting across borders despite facing theatrical restrictions in key regions. The Aditya Dhar directorial is currently trending at No. 1 on Netflix across several territories, including India, Pakistan, Bahrain, Oman, and the UAE, highlighting the film’s sustained post-theatrical momentum.

As per Netflix’s latest weekly rankings, Dhurandhar debuted at the top position in Pakistan during the January 26–February 1 tracking period. The film has similarly secured the No. 1 spot in multiple other markets, reinforcing its wide appeal on streaming platforms.

In other Gulf regions, where the film did not receive theatrical clearance, Dhurandhar has also managed to chart prominently on Netflix. The film is currently ranked No. 7 in Saudi Arabia and No. 3 in Kuwait, indicating significant viewer interest even in territories where its cinema release was restricted. Meanwhile, Netflix viewing data for Qatar is currently unavailable on the platform’s official website, making it difficult to ascertain the film’s exact standing there.

The OTT success stands in contrast to the film’s earlier challenges in the Middle East. Dhurandhar was banned across all six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries—the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain—owing to objections raised over its geopolitical themes. The film, which centres on an undercover RAW agent, was denied theatrical certification after regional authorities reportedly flagged its portrayal of Pakistan as sensitive.

The ban significantly limited the film’s theatrical reach in Middle Eastern markets, traditionally considered crucial for Hindi cinema. However, Dhurandhar continued to perform steadily in India and select international territories and has now found a renewed audience through its digital release, where streaming norms differ from cinema regulations.

Dhurandhar released theatrically on December 5, 2025, and premiered on Netflix on January 30, 2026, even as it continues its theatrical run in select markets. The film’s strong streaming performance follows closely on the heels of the announcement of its sequel, Dhurandhar: The Revenge. The makers recently unveiled the teaser and a poster confirming a March 19, 2026 release.

Directed once again by Aditya Dhar, the sequel is slated to clash at the box office with Yash’s highly anticipated film Toxic: A Fairy Tale For Grown Ups.

Also Read: SCOOP: Dhurandhar 2 OTT rights EXPLODE to Rs. 150 cr; Ranveer Singh creates yet another RECORD as Jio Hotstar wins big!

One of India’s most iconic OTT franchises makes its long-awaited leap to cinemas. The makers announced September 4 as the theatrical release date of Mirzapur: The Movie, promising audiences a larger-than-life cinematic experience rooted in the gritty world they love. The film brings back iconic characters of Mirzapur — Kaleen Bhaiya (Pankaj Tripathi), Guddu Pandit (Ali Fazal), and marks the much-anticipated comeback of Munna Bhaiya (Divyenndu), one of the franchise’s most loved characters. Now, for the first time ever, the cult saga of Mirzapur steps into cinemas, transforming its beloved world into an epic big-screen experience.

The ensemble cast also includes Jitendra Kumar, Ravi Kishan, Abhishek Banerjee, Rasika Duggal, Shweta Tripathi, Shriya Pilgaonkar, Harshita Gaur, Sushant Singh, Mohit Malik, Sheeba Chadha, Rajesh Tailang, Kulbhushan Kharbanda, Sonal Chauhan, Pramod Pathak and Anangsha Biswas.

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Amazon MGM Studios, and Excel Entertainment present an Excel Entertainment Production, directed by Gurmmeet Singh and written by Puneet Krishna. The film releases in cinemas on September 4, 2026.

Also Read: Ali Fazal announces wrap of Mirzapur: The Film final schedule: “We brought our A game when the camera rolled up”

Actor and entrepreneur Vivek Oberoi has approached the Delhi High Court, filing a civil suit seeking protection of his personality and publicity rights amid alleged widespread misuse of his identity through fake social media accounts, unauthorised merchandise and AI-generated content.

In the petition filed through advocates Sana Raees Khan and Pranay Chitale, Oberoi asserts that his name, image, voice, likeness and other distinctive attributes associated with him are being exploited without his consent for commercial and other gains. The suit names entities such as Collector Bazar, ZoomMantra and Indiancontent among the defendants, alongside unidentified individuals labelled as John Doe.

Oberoi’s legal team has sought a permanent injunction to restrain infringement of his personality rights, alleging that the defendants are actively impersonating him on platforms such as Instagram by operating fake accounts using his identity. The plea also highlights the sale of unauthorised merchandise — including posters, T-shirts and postcards bearing his name and likeness — on various e-commerce sites.

A significant aspect of the suit focuses on the alleged misuse of artificial intelligence and deepfake technology. Oberoi contends that AI-generated content has been used to create misleading and derogatory depictions of him, including superimposing his face onto objectionable imagery and spreading facts that he says are false. The petition describes this as potentially harmful to his reputation, creating public confusion about fake endorsements and diluting his personal identity.

Oberoi has argued that unchecked use of generative AI poses a serious risk to personality and publicity rights, leading to “public confusion regarding false endorsements, dilution of personal identity, infringement of privacy and erosion of an individual’s exclusive right to commercially benefit from their persona.”

Because such activities are widely accessible online, the actor has described it as nearly impossible to identify every infringer individually. In light of this, he has sought an omnibus ‘John Doe’ injunction to cover unknown persons found violating his rights.

Claiming that he has already suffered and is likely to suffer irreparable harm to his goodwill, reputation and business interests, Oberoi has urged the High Court to order the removal of unauthorised posts, merchandise and content, and to restrain further misuse of his identity in any form.

Also Read: Vivek Oberoi, Mona Singh, Sunny Leone, Lauren Gottlieb and other celebs share intimate glimpses from their Christmas 2025 celebrations

Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Ranbir Kapoor-starrer blockbuster Animal may be getting even bigger than originally planned. While Animal Park, the second instalment of the franchise, is still in the scripting stage, strong industry buzz suggests that Vanga could be contemplating expanding the narrative into a three-part saga.

Though there has been no official announcement yet, sources familiar with the development indicate that the filmmaker’s creative ambitions for the sequel may have outgrown the idea of a simple two-part structure. “Vanga’s original plan was to tell the story in two films,” a source close to the project told this writer. “But while writing the second part, he realised the narrative had far more depth and material than could be contained in just one more instalment. That’s when the possibility of a third part entered the picture.”

If this plan moves forward, Ranbir Kapoor is expected to remain the common thread across all three films. Interestingly, insiders suggest that the antagonist may not be constant through the trilogy, with different villains potentially driving the conflict in Animal Park and a possible third film, allowing each chapter to explore new dimensions of the story.

At the moment, all decisions remain contingent on the final scripting of Animal Park. However, if the speculation proves true, Animal could well evolve into one of the most expansive character-driven franchises in recent Hindi cinema, redefining how dark, adult-themed narratives are mounted on a blockbuster scale.

Also Read: Ranbir Kapoor on Animal Park says: “It will be bigger, bolder, and more engaging”

The exciting teaser of Dacoit was launched with much fanfare in December in the presence of its lead actors, Adivi Sesh, Mrunal Thakur and Anurag Kashyap. The Pan-India action entertainer was scheduled to release on March 19, 2026 and Bollywood Hungama has now exclusively learned that Dacoit has been pushed.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “With March witnessing multiple releases and announcements, the makers of Dacoit have thoughtfully realigned the film’s release plans, shifting the date to April 10. It was earlier set to arrive alongside Dhurandhar: The Revenge and Toxic: A Fairytale For Grown-Ups, making it a time when multiple highly anticipated films were slated to release together. The team holds great respect for both Dhurandhar as well as Toxic and their creative teams, and firmly believes that every theatrical release deserves its own moment with audiences.”

Trade sources believe that postponing the release date of Dacoit, previously described by the makers as a ‘gold fish’ among larger releases, reflects the maker’s confidence in the film’s content and its ability to strike a chord with the audiences. The source added, “Staying true to that thought, the decision to move to April 10 comes from a place of fairness and clarity, ensuring that Dacoit gets its due spotlight while audiences can enjoy all films on their own terms. It also reflects strategic planning and thoughtful timing, focused on the film’s theatrical experience.”

Dacoit is directed by Abhinay Deo, produced by Supriya Yarlagadda and backed by S S Creations and Suniel Narang Production. As for Dhurandhar: The Revenge, it is the sequel to the much-loved blockbuster, Dhurandhar (2025) and stars Ranveer Singh and others. Meanwhile, Toxic: A Fairytale For Grown-Ups, directed by Geetu Mohandas, is a multi-starrer, starring Yash of KGF fame, Nayanthara, Kiara Advani, Huma Qureshi, Tara Sutaria, Rukmini Vasanth, Akshay Oberoi and others.

Also Read: Adivi Sesh wraps final schedule of Dacoit ahead of its anticipated festive release in March: “This film has been an intense journey”

A few days ago, leaked images from the sets of Dhurandhar The Revenge dropped online and quickly spread like wildfire. The images featured Sanjay Dutt and Arjun Rampal shooting in South Mumbai’s Ballard Estate. The locality can also be seen being transformed into Karachi’s Lyari locality. However, two days ago, the shoot was abruptly halted by the Mumbai Police for flying a drone without permission.

As per a report in Mumbai Mirror, a First Information Report (FIR) was filed against location manager Rinku Rajpal Valmiki under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for “knowingly disobeying lawful orders from officials”. The FIR mentioned that the crew used drones but did not have permission. What added to the seriousness, as per the report, was that Fort is considered a high-security area of the city.

The Mumbai Mirror article then revealed on February 1, Sanjay Dutt had arrived on the set and was shooting a crucial scene of Dhurandhar The Revenge. He was wearing a white pathani suit and had a gun in his hand. The drone was meant to capture his dramatic walk. However, all of a sudden, the cops arrived and the shoot was stopped.

As per the Mumbai Mirror report, Zonal DCP Pravin Mundhe confirmed that an FIR has indeed been filed and that Rinku Rajpal Valmiki was arrested. The police sources told the tabloid that, though the line producers secured permission from the Maharashtra Film, Stage and Cultural Development Corporation Limited for the shoot, they did not secure permission to fly drones.

The article also carried a quote of a local resident, Sanjay Gurav, who revealed that the team of Dhurandhar The Revenge had blocked two parallel roads in Fort – Perin Nariman Street and Modi Street – for the shoot for three days, that is, January 30, January 31 and February 1.

Meanwhile, just some time back, the makers of Dhurandhar The Revenge dropped the much-awaited poster of the film, featuring Ranveer Singh in a gory and massy avatar. It reconfirmed that the sequel will indeed release on March 19 this year, as planned.

Also Read: Makers of Dhurandhar: The Revenge CONFIRM March 19, 2026 release; first poster featuring Ranveer Singh out!

Bollywood’s long-running comedy series Golmaal is gearing up for its fifth instalment with a casting development that has drawn notable industry attention. According to an exclusive report by Variety India, actor Akshay Kumar has joined the ensemble of Golmaal 5, set to portray the main antagonist opposite Ajay Devgn’s character in the film.

The Golmaal franchise, directed by Rohit Shetty and first launched in 2006 with Golmaal: Fun Unlimited, has carved its reputation through high-energy humour and a strong ensemble cast. The new instalment is said to expand on that formula by incorporating fantasy elements and a more pronounced antagonist arc, while still preserving the playful tone that defines the series.

Akshay Kumar’s involvement marks a significant addition to the franchise. Known for his work across several successful comedy series, including Hera Pheri, Housefull, and Welcome, Akshay will reportedly take on a negative role that diverges from the usual comic conflicts in the Golmaal universe. This will also be his second consecutive turn as an antagonist, following his role in Priyadarshan’s Haiwaan, where he starred opposite Saif Ali Khan.

Ajay Devgn continues to anchor the Golmaal ensemble, leading a familiar group of actors. Regular cast members such as Arshad Warsi, Tusshar Kapoor, Shreyas Talpade and Kunal Kemmu are expected to return, along with veteran comedians Johnny Lever, Sanjay Mishra, Mukesh Tiwari and Ashwini Kalsekar. There is also speculation that Sharman Joshi may reprise his role, though Kareena Kapoor Khan’s participation has not yet been confirmed.

Production for Golmaal 5 is scheduled to begin by the end of February 2026 at Film City in Mumbai, with a target theatrical release in early 2027. The film arrives as the franchise celebrates two decades since its inception, and it will mark the sixth collaboration between Akshay Kumar and Ajay Devgn, following projects such as Suhaag (1994), Khakee (2004), Insan (2005), Sooryavanshi (2021) and Singham Again (2024).

At the time of the report, the makers had not officially confirmed Akshay Kumar’s casting, leaving some details subject to formal announcements.

Also Read: Akshay Kumar calls Rani Mukerji “Goddeess of acting” as he reviews Mardaani 3: “I saw it. I loved it”

Riding the momentum from his widely successful Border 2, actor Ahan Shetty is set to reunite with cinematic storytelling in a new intense romantic drama directed by Shaad Ali, with principal photography expected to begin by March–April this year. The project marks a creative collaboration between one of Bollywood’s emerging performers and a filmmaker known for his work in memorable love stories.

Following Border 2’s robust box office performance, Ahan has expanded his slate with three new film commitments, one of which is this yet-untitled romance that blends action with emotional depth. “It’s an intense action love story, something I’m returning to after Tadap [2021]. I like such intense characters and the depth they carry,” Shetty told Mid-Day, underlining his interest in roles that challenge him artistically.

The film has been in development, with the creative team currently finalising both the script and music ahead of the planned shoot. Shetty — who is the son of veteran actor Suniel Shetty — described his experience working with director Shaad Ali as collaborative and reassuring. “Shaad sir knows exactly what he wants. I’m excited to work with him because we understand each other. I think he’ll get a great performance out of me. I believe in completely surrendering to my director,” he said.

While further details about the supporting cast and production schedule have yet to be confirmed, the film’s early planning reflects a deliberate approach, with flexibility in its shoot dates as creative elements come together.

Also Read: Suniel Shetty pens emotional note for “Sun” Ahan Shetty as Border 2 releases: “Watching you wear the uniform brings it full circle”

Filmmaker Shazia Iqbal, known for her directorial debut Dhadak 2, has publicly criticised the spy thriller Dhurandhar, calling it “sinister” and asserting that “inciting hate and violence is in its DNA.” Her remarks, shared via Instagram Stories, have sparked debate within Bollywood and among audiences following the film’s successful run and recent Netflix release.

Released in December 2025, Dhurandhar, directed by Aditya Dhar and featuring Ranveer Singh in the lead role, has become one of the highest-grossing Hindi films at the domestic box office. The action-oriented espionage narrative centres on an Indian spy embedded deep within a terror network, and includes a supporting cast of well-known actors such as Akshaye Khanna, Arjun Rampal, R Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt and Sara Arjun.

Shazia Iqbal’s comments did not explicitly name the film in her initial post, but she paired her message with Dhurandhar’s title track, making clear the target of her critique. In her Instagram Story, she described the film as intentionally provocative. “What a sinister film! It’s not hidden, it’s not unintentional — inciting hate and violence is in the DNA of the film,” she wrote, later adding that many in the industry appear unconcerned about the implications of such content on minority communities.

Iqbals’s post continued with a note of sarcasm directed at industry peers: “But it’s a ‘well made’ film guys… With some cool BgM (smile emoji). Well done industry dud bros. Glad that most of y’all don’t care about minorities enough to even hide your blatant apathy.”

Her critique extended beyond Dhurandhar. Iqbal also referenced the teaser for The Kerala Story 2, the sequel to the 2023 film that was itself embroiled in controversy. However, hours after sharing her thoughts, the director made her Instagram account private.

Also Read: Dhurandhar tops Netflix India chart within 24 hours of streaming release; Aditya Dhar REACTS!

Four men arrested in connection with the firing outside filmmaker Rohit Shetty’s Juhu residence were presented before an Esplanade court late Sunday, where they were remanded to police custody until February 5. Police allege the men conspired with a wanted suspect, Shubham Lonkar, to carry out the attack with the intention of killing the prominent director-producer.

The case stems from a complaint filed by a security guard who reported indiscriminate firing outside Shetty’s residence in the early hours of Sunday, an incident that triggered a swift police investigation. No injuries were reported in the firing, but authorities treated it as a serious attempted murder case and registered an FIR accordingly.

According to police sources, Samarth Shivsharan Pomaji (19), one of the arrested men, allegedly conspired with the wanted accused Shubham Lonkar to carry out the plot. Investigators say the group procured a Honda Dio scooter (MH 12 FN 2205) — allegedly with assistance arranged through accomplices, including Aditya Gyaneshwar Gayaki — to facilitate the execution of the firing near Shetty’s home.

#WATCH | Mumbai, Maharashtra: Pune Police have detained five people (Aman Anand, Aditya Gyaneshwar, Siddharth Deepak, Samarth, and Swapnil) in connection with the firing incident at Bollywood director Rohit Shetty's residence. Three of them have been arrested and brought to the… pic.twitter.com/s8Nb2MVpkW — ANI (@ANI) February 1, 2026

Authorities have alleged that Lonkar provided financial and logistical support for the crime. Police have described the involvement of the arrested suspects as key to supporting the main shooter, with Lonkar directing parts of the conspiracy from outside the Mumbai area. The motive behind the alleged conspiracy has not been publicly clarified by investigators, and Lonkar remains at large. According to multiple reports, law enforcement is also examining potential links between the incident and the Lawrence Bishnoi gang — a criminal network connected with several high-profile cases in recent years — though officials have cautioned against speculation until claims can be verified.

In a related development, a social media post attributed to individuals claiming association with the Bishnoi gang purported to take responsibility for the attack. The post described the firing as a “small trailer” and included a threat of further violence if demands were not met. Authorities are investigating the authenticity of the post and examining whether it is connected to the arrests or if it is a separate attempt at intimidation.

Also Read: Firing reported outside Rohit Shetty’s Juhu residence; police investigate

Veteran Bollywood actors Govinda, Shakti Kapoor, Chunky Panday, and BJP MP Manoj Tiwari have been named in a First Information Report (FIR) in connection with an alleged investment fraud linked to Ghaziabad-based company Maxizone Touch Private Limited, according to a complaint filed in Jharkhand’s Jamshedpur court.

The FIR was registered on the orders of a local court in Jamshedpur, after investors approached the judiciary claiming they were cheated by the firm, which had promised high returns on investments. The case was filed under various sections of the Indian Penal Code related to cheating and criminal conspiracy.

According to the complaint by an investor who said he invested over Rs 30 lakhs in Maxizone Touch Pvt Ltd, the company had assured returns of up to 15 per cent monthly interest. When neither the interest nor the principal amount was returned as promised, the investor moved the court, prompting police action.

The FIR names the four actors along with others, alleging that they were involved in promoting the company’s investment scheme and played a role in attracting unsuspecting investors through endorsements. The complaint asserts that their influence helped the firm lure more people into the scheme.

Earlier, Maxizone Touch Pvt Ltd directors — Chander Bhushan Singh and his wife, Priyanka Singh — were arrested in September 2025 by Jamshedpur police as part of a broader investigation into the company’s operations. Investigators have said the firm allegedly ran a fraudulent multi-level marketing (MLM) scheme and collected substantial unauthorised deposits from investors.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) had also conducted searches linked to alleged investment and cryptocurrency fraud involving the company, reporting that the Singh couple remained absconding for nearly three years before their arrest.

Also Read: Neha Kakkar’s name misused in Rs 5 lakh investment scam; FIR filed at Worli police station

The makers of The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond have unveiled the character posters of its leading women — Ulka Gupta, Aishwarya Ojha and Aditi Bhatia — offering the first detailed visual insight into the film ahead of its release.

The newly released posters present intense close-ups of the actors, with half their faces covered by a burqa while the other half reveals visible bruises and tear-streaked expressions. The imagery suggests emotional and physical trauma, setting a sombre tone and indicating the difficult circumstances their characters navigate in the narrative.

Sharing the posters on social media, the makers wrote, “—”, keeping the focus on the visuals rather than revealing plot details at this stage.

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Directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Kamakhya Narayan Singh, The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond is positioned as a continuation of the first film, expanding its narrative scope. The sequel revolves around the story of three Hindu women whose lives take a troubling turn after they enter relationships that eventually expose a larger, calculated process of religious conversion.

Produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah and co-produced by Aashin A Shah under the banner of Sunshine Pictures, the film follows the 2023 release The Kerala Story, which sparked widespread discussion upon its release.

With the character posters now out, the makers have begun their promotional rollout while keeping the storytelling details largely under wraps. The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond is scheduled to release in cinemas on February 27, 2026.

Also Read: The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond to release on February 27, 2026; teaser out

Early Sunday morning, unidentified individuals fired several gunshots outside the home of Bollywood filmmaker Rohit Shetty in the Juhu area of western Mumbai, prompting an immediate police response and a detailed investigation.

According to police sources, the incident occurred at around 12:45 am, when multiple rounds were discharged near Shetty’s residential building. Initial reports indicate that four to five shots were fired, though the precise number of rounds remains under verification by authorities.

Mumbai Police, along with crime branch teams, responded swiftly to the scene. Security around the building was heightened, and investigators cordoned off the area as a precautionary measure. Forensic experts and ballistic teams were reportedly brought in to collect evidence, and CCTV footage from the surrounding area is being reviewed to trace the movements of the suspects.

#WATCH | Mumbai, Maharashtra | Police and forensic teams reach Director Rohit Shetty's residence, after an incident of firing was reported outside his residence. Further details awaited. pic.twitter.com/h1wVhtCtY7 — ANI (@ANI) January 31, 2026

Officials said no injuries were reported in the incident, and there were no immediate signs of damage to residents. It was also not immediately clear whether Shetty was present inside the residence when the shots were fired.

A senior police official was quoted saying, “Someone fired on the building. Zonal police and crime branch teams are investigating,” underscoring that the probe is at an early stage and that all possible leads are being examined.

So far, there has been no claim of responsibility for the firing, and authorities are yet to determine a clear motive. Local residents shared that the sudden sound of gunshots late at night startled several people in the vicinity, highlighting concerns about safety in high-profile neighbourhoods. Police have assured continued vigilance in the area as the investigation progresses.

Also Read: Big Boy Toyz lists Shilpa Shetty, Rohit Shetty’s luxury cars for auction; deets inside!

Bollywood Hungama has been at the forefront in delivering exclusive news about one of the most-awaited films of 2026, Naagzilla, starring Kartik Aaryan. We are now back with another interesting piece of information – the shoot is steadily progressing and is expected to be completed this month, that is, February 2026.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Director Mrighdeep Singh Lamba shot a month-long schedule in Mumbai with Kartik Aaryan. Yesterday, on January 31, the Mumbai schedule was wrapped up. 70% of the shoot is now complete.”

The source added, “The team of Naagzilla are heading to Delhi this month, that is, February 2026, where a three-week-long schedule will take place. The completion of the Delhi leg will mark the wrap of the film.”

Naagzilla is produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions and Mahaveer Jain’s Mahaveer Jain Films (with Mrighdeep Singh Lamba as a partner). The fantasy comedy features Kartik as a shape-shifting naag and, reportedly, Ravi Kishan essays the role of the antagonist. Also, as per reports, Sreeleela is the female lead. Interestingly, she is also paired opposite Kartik Aaryan in his other 2026 film, the untitled musical saga, directed by Anurag Basu.

The source further revealed, “Naagzilla went on floors on November 1, 2026, and within four months, the shoot will be wrapped up, thanks to advance planning and dedication of the cast and crew. This was a challenging and one-of-a-kind film and in between, Kartik went all out to promote his Christmas release, Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri (2025; also produced by Karan Johar). At the same time, he gave more than a hundred per cent to Naagzilla as well. Once the shoot is completed, Mrighdeep Singh Lamba’s complete focus would be on post-production and ensuring that their labour of love turns out to be an exciting and fascinating piece of cinema for the audiences.”

Also Read: Ravi Kishan to play antagonist in Kartik Aaryan-starrer Naagzilla

Over the years, Tere Naam (2003) has become a cult film for movie buffs due to its subject, evergreen songs and the performance and hairstyle of lead actor, Salman Khan. As a result, there has been a huge demand for its re-release for a long time. The success of films like Kabir Singh (2019), Animal (2023), Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat (2025), Tere Ishk Mein (2025), etc. have further fuelled this demand since these films are considered to be in the same zone as Tere Naam. Moreover, the generation that was either not born or missed watching the film in cinemas has also been consistently demanding a re-release of Tere Naam. It has now come to light that their wish will be fulfilled in less than a month.

Yesterday, January 30, PVR Cinemas revealed that they plan to bring Tere Naam back into cinemas on February 27. As expected, the announcement has led to a wave of jubilation among fans of the superstar and the film.

In 2024, Bollywood Hungama spoke to trade experts and exhibitors on this aspect. Trade veteran Taran Adarsh said, “If the film were released in the present day or had been released even a few years ago, people would have gone crazy.” He also jokingly remarked, “The film is alive even because of memes.”

Trade analyst Atul Mohan had explained, “The audience that liked Kabir Singh and Animal would love Tere Naam. Bhai yeh sab filmein pehle hi kar chuke hai!”

Film exhibitor and distributor Akshaye Rathi had opined, “Tere Naam is a cult film. I remember so many youngsters across the country sporting Salman Khan’s hairstyle! It is truly a hallmark of a movie and a star which has resonated in a huge way. If it does re-release with the correct campaign, there’s a lot that can happen.”

Distributor and exhibitor Raj Bansal had exulted, “If it re-releases, it can do wonders.” Girish Johar, producer and film business analyst, in agreement, had stated, “Tere Naam has fantastic music and it was a one-of-its-kind love story at that point in time. I think it has a good chance to do well on its re-release.”

This was also the time when Bollywood Hungama exclusively reached out to producer Sunil Manchanda and asked him if there was any chance that Tere Naam might be re-released. He had told us then, “We haven’t discussed it yet, but we could look at the possibilities. We’d have to study the market and see if it’s worth giving it another round in cinemas and then take it from there.”

More re-releases in February

Tere Naam is not the only film which will have a re-run in February. On February 6, PVR Inox will re-release Shah Rukh Khan’s 2002 film Devdas (2002). Interestingly, the period musical was also re-released in November 2025, as part of the celebrations of Shah Rukh Khan’s 60th birthday. On February 13, Mani Ratnam’s gritty thriller, Yuva (2004), will have a re-release. All three of these films are being released as part of the Valentine’s Day celebrations

Also Read: Salman Khan sports Rs. 3.91 crore Rolex Daytona ‘Rainbow’; luxury watch steals the spotlight at Stebin Ben and Nupur Sanon’s wedding bash

Veteran filmmaker Priyadarshan is reportedly set to direct the sequel to the 2021 horror-comedy Bhoot Police, with significant changes to its cast and production approach. According to industry reports, Priyadarshan has been brought on board with a substantial fee of Rs 21 crores to lead the project, underlining confidence in his creative vision for the franchise’s next chapter.

Sources familiar with the development told entertainment portal Pinkvilla that while Bhoot Police 2 will maintain the core blend of humour and supernatural elements that defined the first film, it will not feature the original leads — Saif Ali Khan and Arjun Kapoor. “While the sequel retains the core idea of a horror-comedy, the casting will see a complete refresh. Saif Ali Khan and Arjun Kapoor will not be returning for the second instalment,” the source said.

“The idea is to reinvent the franchise with a new duo. The makers are looking at two actors — one senior and one junior — to create an interesting combo. It’s a proper horror-comedy, staying true to the genre but with more of a theatrical treatment,” the insider added.

Bhoot Police, directed by Pavan Kirpalani, originally starred Saif Ali Khan, Arjun Kapoor, Jacqueline Fernandez and Yami Gautam. The film garnered attention for its light-hearted take on ghost-hunting and became popular among audiences on OTT platforms following its 2021 release.

Priyadarshan, known for his work on films such as Hera Pheri, Hungama and Hulchul, is also juggling multiple projects including Bhooth Bangla and Haiwaan, both slated for 2026 releases. Bhooth Bangla — featuring Akshay Kumar — has already locked its theatrical date and marks a reunion between Kumar and the director after more than a decade.

Also Read: Makers of Haiwaan wish Priyadarshan on birthday, share exciting BTS glimpses

If sources are to be believed, Arijit Singh has decided to take the precarious plunge into politics. There are conflicting rumours on his political plans, though.

According to a source very close to the singer, “He feels very close to West Bengal. He is going into politics for sure. But he hasn’t decided whether to start his own party, or join Mamata Banerjee, whom he is very close to. But yes, he is very keen to work for the betterment of the grassroots sections. For this, he thinks politics is the right platform.”

Arijit’s friend describes the singer as a “saint”. “He has earned millions and millions. But he doesn’t spend a penny on himself. He uses his wealth to quietly help the needy.”

Arijit Singh is one of the most admired singers to have emerged from the Indian entertainment industry after he entered the music scene in 2011. His popularity and liking goes beyond the borders of India.

The celebrated singer shocked his fans earlier this week both in India and outside when he announced that he would be taking retirement from singing. He, however, soon clarified that he will continue composing music for movies.

Also Read: Arijit Singh announces he’s stepping away from playback singing; says he is “calling it off”