Indus Chronicles

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”

The last 20 days were dominated by the Gen Z protest, which began in Delhi but soon spread to Mumbai and several other cities across India. What stood out was not just the entertainment quotient of Gen Z’s Instagram posts, but also the songs they used in their Stories and Reels.

One film that featured prominently was Rang De Basanti (2006). From the title track to ‘Roobaroo’ and ‘Khoon Chala’, its songs have enjoyed a stunning renaissance over the last 10 days. The film itself centred on youngsters revolting against a powerful system, while its tagline, ‘A Generation Awakens’, perfectly captured the spirit of the present movement.

Meanwhile, Satyagraha (2013), a largely forgotten film, began to be discussed again. It featured Amitabh Bachchan’s character going on a hunger strike, prompting people to draw immediate parallels with Sonam Wangchuk’s ordeal. The film’s song ‘Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram’ also returned to the trending charts. Yuva (2004), a fine film but which is not particularly popular among Gen Z, received a fresh lease of life as well, especially its song ‘Dhakka Laga Bukka’. Scroll through the comment sections of any of these songs, and all you will see are people discussing the protest.

However, the common factor among these films was that none was made recently. They belonged to a different era, politically and otherwise. Members of Gen Z were very young when these films were released, and yet these were the stories they related to, not anything made in the last 12 or 13 years. The fact that they had to rediscover a film like Satyagraha, which had barely been discussed since its theatrical run ended, shows just how disconnected many of our filmmakers have become from contemporary reality.

Cinema always reflected the mood of the nation and what’s happening right now is rare – our films are not touching on burning topics. Of course, censorship is a major reason, and the fear among filmmakers is both real and understandable. Hence, it's high time that our films reflect the mood of the nation while ensuring that they do not make those in power excessively uncomfortable.

This writer had exclusively spoken to Atul Kulkarni – currently a hero among youngsters because of his videos from the protest – in January 2021, on the 15th anniversary of Rang De Basanti. When asked whether a film like Rang De Basanti could be made today, he gave an interesting reply: “Films are made according to the times we live in and the current trends. So accordingly, you have to design your narrative. Filmmakers toh apni hi kahaniyaan kehte hain. Kis tareeke se kehte hain, shayad woh badalta hoga. Suppose Rang De Basanti had been made 30 years ago and not 15 years ago, toh obviously woh film alag banti. Par kahaniyaan toh hum wahi kahenge jo hum kehna chahte hain.”

Hence, filmmakers must tell the stories they believe in; how they adapt those stories to the prevailing circumstance is what matters. And one need not look very far for an example. Shah Rukh Khan did exactly that with Jawan (2023). His nearly three-minute-long monologue in the climax sparked a frenzy in cinemas. SRK’s character, Azad, urges citizens to vote responsibly and question candidates before casting their ballots. Many producers and actors might have trembled upon reading such a dialogue at the script stage. But one of the country’s biggest superstars took the risk and incorporated it into the most expensive film of his career. The rest, as they say, is history.

Most powerful monologue with a very high influence on first time voters 🔥🔥👏👏#Jawan #ShahRukhKhan #LokSabhaElections2024 pic.twitter.com/A9RTyCBChb — Shah Rukh Khan Fan Club Pune | SRK FC Pune (@SRKFC_PUNE) April 25, 2024

However, as Atul Kulkarni observed, Shah Rukh Khan adapted his narrative to the times. As a result, the dialogue became memorable without sparking any controversy or causing political fallout.

It is important that our filmmakers take a leaf out of Jawan’s book and collaborate with like-minded, socially conscious writers and artistes to create films that are hard-hitting and emotionally resonate with the masses, while also avoiding unnecessary political controversy, even if certain dialogues appear critical of those in power. Similarly, we need songs that young people can genuinely connect with, so that the next time the country unites behind a common cause, they do not have to look back one or two decades to find tracks that reflect their emotions.

Also Read: Rang De Basanti marks 20 years with special Mumbai reunion

World Nature Conservation Day 2026 serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the planet's natural resources and biodiversity for future generations. Marked every year on July 28, the day encourages individuals and communities to adopt sustainable practices while recognising that environmental conservation is a shared responsibility. Joining the conversation this year, filmmaker Tarun Mansukhani, actors Sadia Khateeb and Harshita Gaur, and actress-dancer Lauren Gottlieb shared their personal perspectives on why protecting nature matters and how conservation can become a part of everyday life.

Filmmaker Tarun Mansukhani highlighted the inseparable bond between nature and storytelling, saying, “As someone who's spent years working in cinema, I've come to realise that nature isn't just scenery we place a story in front of, it actually shapes the stories we end up telling and the memories we carry as an audience. Some of our most iconic landscapes have become inseparable from the films and folklore built around them. Take away the location, and often the story loses a part of its soul. Our festivals, our traditions, our folklore, all of it is deeply rooted in the natural world in ways we don't always stop to acknowledge. So when we talk about protecting nature, we're not just talking about the environment; we're talking about preserving cultural identity for the generations who come after us. That's what makes conservation feel personal to me, not abstract.”

Sadia Khateeb reflected on the importance of learning from traditional practices while embracing modern solutions. She shared, “Sometimes the most powerful thing we can do for conservation isn't inventing something new, it's preserving the wisdom we've already inherited. Traditional practices, the ones our grandparents followed without even calling them 'sustainable,' were built on a relationship with nature that was far more balanced than what we practise today. They didn't have the language of conservation, but they lived it in how they cooked, how they farmed, how they stored water and food for the seasons ahead. That restraint came from actually understanding scarcity, not from lack of access, but from respect for it. I don't believe progress and tradition need to compete with each other. We can move forward with new technology and still carry that older wisdom with us, using it as a foundation rather than something we've outgrown. For me, conservation starts with looking backward before we look forward.”

Harshita Gaur stressed that conservation begins in our immediate surroundings and that even small actions can make a meaningful difference. She said, “We tend to think conservation is something that happens far away, in national parks or wildlife sanctuaries, somewhere removed from our everyday lives. But honestly, it begins right where we live. It's the birds that visit our balconies, the butterflies in a nearby park, the trees and plants that somehow still manage to survive in the middle of our cities. We just don't notice them enough to protect them. Even our cities can support biodiversity if we make a little room for it, instead of paving over every inch of green space. Something as simple as planting a native species instead of an ornamental one, or protecting a small patch of green in your locality, has a ripple effect that goes further than we realise. I think that's the part people forget, that conservation is often small and local before it's ever big and global.”

Lauren Gottlieb, meanwhile, spoke about responsible travel and the importance of respecting the places we visit. She said, “I love how much travel teaches you, if you let it go beyond just seeing a place. For me, the best way to experience somewhere new is by respecting it, not consuming it. I try to actually learn about the culture, the food, the people, and the environment of wherever I go, instead of just passing through it. It deepens the whole experience in a way that a checklist never could. I always try to leave a destination the way I found it, or better, whether that's how I engage with the local community, how I treat the land, or the small choices I make along the way. Local ecosystems aren't just photo backdrops for me; they're living, breathing systems I feel lucky to be a temporary guest in. There's something so grounding about that mindset; it makes every trip feel more meaningful.”

Also Read: Lauren Gottlieb had auditioned for Michael Jackson’s final tour: “I got to perform in front of him”

Vishal Bhardwaj is known for his Shakespeare trilogy in the form of Maqbool (2004), Omkara (2006) and Haider (2014), adapted from Macbeth, Othello and Hamlet. Out of these, Omkara completes 20 years today. The film starred Ajay Devgn, Saif Ali Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Vivek Oberoi who reprised the characters of Othello, Iago, Desdemona and Michael Cassio respectively from the original Shakespearean play. It is still remembered for its bold storytelling and trying something hugely different at that time with mainstream Hindi film stars.

Omkara is also special for filmmaker Abhishek Chaubey as he was an associate director and co-writer on the project. In an exclusive and candid interview with Bollywood Hungama, he looked back at the enjoyable process of making Omkara.

Personal milestone

Chaubey calls Omkara a “milestone” for his career. “This was just the second film which I had written,” he said. “This was also the biggest film I had done in my life. It just fell into my lap because we were not expecting Vishal to make a thriller at that point of time. He was making something else. This happened all of a sudden. I had a fantastic time being a part of this film. It was Kumar ji’s (Kumar Mangat Pathak) first production and he didn’t leave any stone unturned. So, we were never in want of anything. There was very little stress on set. We enjoyed making the film.”

Script written in a jiffy

Chaubey had said in an interview that they had written the script of Omkara in 18 days. He elaborated on how it happened. “In 18 days we did the adaptation formally,” he said. “But when we were working on the post-production of Maqbool, Vishal and I were just generally talking that if he were to do another Shakespeare, what would it be. And he wanted to do Othello. There were no plans of making anything but just for fun we used to talk about adapting Othello. So, there were certain ideas about the film we had through our discussion about Othello early on; a year or two before we made the film,” he said.

Hence, when the opportunity came to adapt Othello, they were better prepared because they had a good vision about the film. “There was some amount of clarity with which we started,” said Chaubey. “It was not completely blind start in that sense. We had to write the film in a short period of time because Kumar Mangat had come as producer and got Ajay Devgn on board. Ajay was very keen to do a Shakespeare with Vishal but the condition was that his dates were open in January and we were already in September. So, we had to write the film in double quick time, otherwise we would lose out on his dates. Although there was pressure, it was a good pressure.”

Meeting real gangsters and politicians

Sharing the interesting research process, Chaubey revealed, “Robin (Bhatt) da joined us. Then Vishal, me and Robin da went on a general trip of western UP, particularly Meerut. We spent about a week there and met various kinds of people – gangsters, people behind bars, etc. Just a political and crime landscape of Meerut. Plus, Vishal is from Meerut, so he knew a lot of people we could meet and talk to. That energized us and also gave us a feel of the film, like how the characters are, how they talk, behave, etc. Directly from Meerut we went to Mussoorie to write the film.”

Due to their research and familiarity with Othello, which Chaubey had even studied in college, they were well-prepared when they sat down to write. “We would have discussions about the adaptation during the day – the story, characters and all of that. During lunch time, I would polish the notes Vishal ji and Robin da had discussed. Then post-lunch during tea time we would revise it and Vishal would that evening only try and do the dialogues of those scenes. It was almost like we were working double time. We wrote it very rapidly. It was a very long time ago. I was very young, so I had a lot of energy. I remember enjoying the process tremendously,” recalled Chaubey.

Only Vishal Bhardwaj was convinced about Saif Ali Khan’s casting as Langda Tyagi

Recalling the casting of Saif, Chaubey said, “I was of the view that for the role of Langda Tyagi we would be going for a different, more serious kind of an actor or an arthouse actor because we were coming from Maqbool and all of that. But Vishal said that he is going for Saif. And I was like, ‘Are you sure?’ Saif hadn’t done anything like this before, right? He played romantic characters in urban films. The only film where he had negative shades was Ek Hasina Thi. He was very good in it but he was playing a very urbane character. This was a very different and rugged sort of a character.”

Chaubey added, “I wasn’t sure if it would work but Vishal was supremely confident that he would make him do it. I have to give credit to him because not just me but everybody around him was not very sure about his choice. But Vishal being a director could see something which we, obviously, couldn’t. And when Saif got to know that he is getting to play Iago, he quickly jumped at it. I think his mother Sharmila ji had something to do with it. She, sort of, encouraged him to play this part because, knowing Shakespeare, she told him that Iago is the most memorable character of this play. But his dates were not clear. I think he was doing Race. But then Race got pushed and he came on board.”

Chaubey recalled that Kareena came on board fairly quickly because Desdemona was a great character for her. She also wanted to be in a Vishal Bhardwaj film specially with Ajay Devgn leading it. He said that the rest of the casting also happened very quickly.

Saif didn’t hesitate to use cuss words

Omkara was one of the earliest mainstream films to have a lot of cuss words, especially uttered by Langda Tyagi’s character. When asked whether Saif had any hesitation in uttering cuss words, Chaubey said, “Saif jumped at the opportunity (laughs). He said, ‘I am never going to get a chance to do something like this again’. There were some apprehensions how it will be acceptable to the Indian audience or how the censor board will pass it. But our intention behind it was very clear. Shakespeare has great poetry. So, there has to be something in the dialogue that gives it a rhythm and feel that sets it apart from what you normally see in a Hindi film. The way Vishal ji used the dialogue and even the abusive language worked – and I mean this seriously – in a very poetic way. It was not like how cuss words are used now without a thought carelessly.”

“20 years ago, the CBFC was more enlightened”

The reaction of how the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to the cuss words was an obvious question to Chaubey. “CBFC of that era was very different from CBFC of present,” he said. “My first film (Ishqiya) came in 2010. It had a bold theme and colourful language. But at that time, people would give you Adult certificate and as long as anything was not demeaning to a gender or a community, they would let it be. In Omkara, there were some dialogue cuts but very minimal, which the committee felt were abusive towards a gender or anything of that sort. But otherwise, they let it pass. I think we had a very enlightened Censor Board 20 years ago. I think we have gone 20 years behind today.”

The craze behind “Langda Tyagi Baahubali”

Post the film’s release, the dialogue uttered by Deepak Dobriyal’s character, “Langda Tyagi Baahubali, Baahubali Langda Tyagi” became a rage and it continues to be popular. “When I saw it on set while shooting, I knew this is going to be a hit,” said Chaubey. “We had written it and we wanted it to be iconic. But when Deepak and Saif played that scene and then Deepak started jumping and saying this dialogue, we knew instantly that this is going to catch.”

Chaubey was speaking from Jharkhand where he was for a recce to scout locations for his upcoming web series.

Also Read: Saif Ali Khan makes an attention grabbing appearance at Lord’s Stadium; heritage-inspired Winchester College tie becomes the highlight of his look

Pooja Bhatt had a fascinating conversation with film archivist and author S M M Ausaja on her podcast, The Pooja Bhatt Show. Ausaja spoke about building one of the largest private archives of film memorabilia and much more. He also lamented the lack of will within the Indian film industry to save and preserve artefacts from films of yesteryear.

S M M Ausaja revealed, “A lot of second-generation members of film families are not interested in what their forefathers accomplished. So, when a top producer passes away, the family throws everything away as raddi. That’s what happens. I won’t reveal the name, but there was a particular top star whose jubilee trophies, awards, citations and other memorabilia were given away to a raddiwallah after he passed away!”

Pooja Bhatt added, “Well, my father (Mahesh Bhatt) was giving away his Filmfare Awards to some student just like that! So, I said, ‘Nooo’ (laughs)! I grabbed them from him, and I have kept those awards in my home. He asked me, ‘What are you going to do with it?’. I replied, ‘I want to keep them. Thank you very much’!”

She further said, “I have rescued so many continuity albums which we used to have from the Vishesh Films’ petti’s because they were literally rotting there. They contain material from Sadak (1991), Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahin (1991), Sir (1993), etc. Maine aise hi utha ke le liya. I said ‘Mujhe chahiye’. So, I have saved them. A lot of pages are stuck together. I don’t know how to fix some of them. But I’ve rescued them.”

S M M Ausaja also spoke about the discouraging acquisition system at the National Film Archive. He stated, “If I am a collector and have acquired something extremely rare, I travel all the way to Pune to take it to the National Film Archive. For a poster or booklet that cannot be found anywhere else in the world, I’d be lucky if they offered me Rs. 100! That was my experience in the 1990s. I don’t know whether they have increased the rates since then, but such a paltry sum wouldn’t even cover my fuel costs. How do you expect the institution to function? It is entirely dependent on freebies donated by producers.”

Also Read: Pooja Bhatt SLAMS Delhi University’s advisory asking students to avoid Jantar Mantar protests: “Support their right to speak out”

National Award-winning actor and filmmaker Rishab Shetty has joined hands with Marvel's beloved superhero in a special collaboration ahead of the release of Spider-Man: Brand New Day. The unique association brings together one of Indian cinema's most celebrated storytellers with one of the world's most iconic superheroes, celebrating the enduring legacy of Spider-Man across generations.

In a special promotional video, the Kantara actor-director is seen unexpectedly crossing paths with Spider-Man before sharing his long-standing admiration for the friendly neighbourhood superhero. Reflecting on his first experience of watching Spider-Man on the big screen, Rishab recalled how deeply he connected with Peter Parker's journey.

“I still remember watching Spider-Man for the first time in a single-screen theatre many years ago and instantly connecting with Peter Parker. He has always reminded me that it’s okay to stumble, make mistakes, and even experience heartbreak, as long as we never lose the goodness within us,” he said.

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The actor also spoke about the values that Spider-Man continues to represent and why the character remains relevant even today. Sharing how the superhero has become a favourite within his own family, Rishab added, “Spider-Man also teaches us that with great power comes great responsibility, and that lesson stays relevant no matter how old you are. Over the years, my love for Spider-Man has only grown stronger, and today, he’s just as special to my children. In fact, they’ve already made me book tickets for Spider-Man: Brand New Day so we can all experience it together on the big screen.”

The collaboration comes ahead of the theatrical release of Spider-Man: Brand New Day, which is set to arrive in Indian cinemas on July 30 in English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam.

Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton and written by Chris McKenna and Erik Sommers, the latest chapter in the Spider-Man franchise sees Tom Holland reprise his role as Peter Parker. The film also stars Zendaya, Sadie Sink, Jacob Batalon, Jon Bernthal, Tramell Tillman, Michael Mando and Mark Ruffalo in pivotal roles. The story follows Peter Parker as he continues to protect New York City while confronting a powerful new threat and navigating an unexpected evolution of his superpowers.

Meanwhile, Rishab Shetty has an exciting slate of projects lined up. The actor-filmmaker is expected to headline films such as Jai Hanuman and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, while also taking forward the highly successful Kantara franchise.

With this special collaboration, Rishab Shetty and Spider-Man have come together to celebrate a character whose themes of courage, responsibility and resilience continue to inspire audiences across the world.

Also Read: Rishab Shetty receives South Indian Icon Award at Ananda Vikatan Cinema Awards

Pankaj Tripathi's upcoming family drama Ohh My Dog has reportedly suffered a last-minute release setback. The Amit Rai directorial, which was initially slated to arrive in theatres on July 31, has now been postponed by a week, with reports suggesting that the decision was taken to avoid a direct box office clash with Marvel Studios' highly anticipated Spider-Man: Brand New Day. The film will now arrive on August 7.

According to sources close to the development, the makers of Ohh My Dog have been facing a shortage of screens as exhibitors are expected to prioritize Spider-Man: Brand New Day, one of the most eagerly awaited films in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Headlined by Tom Holland and Zendaya, the superhero entertainer is expected to command a massive theatrical rollout, making it challenging for smaller films to secure adequate showcasing.

The postponement is believed to be a strategic move aimed at ensuring Ohh My Dog receives better screen availability and a stronger theatrical presence. While the makers are yet to make an official announcement regarding the revised release date, the film is expected to hit cinemas a week later than originally planned.

The delay comes just days after Ohh My Dog successfully completed its certification process with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The film has been awarded a U/A certificate, although the board directed a few modifications before granting clearance.

Among the changes mandated by the CBFC, references to brands including 'Truecaller' and 'Dettol' have been muted, along with a cuss word used in the film. A sequence involving a dog has also been shortened by two seconds, while a photo frame of Lord Hanuman appearing in one scene has been blurred. Additionally, the board instructed the makers to include two disclaimers—one addressing child labour, which forms part of the film's narrative, and another on human trafficking.

Directed by Amit Rai, Ohh My Dog marks the filmmaker's return to direction after a gap. The film stars Pankaj Tripathi alongside Pawan Malhotra, Maahi Rai, Rajesh Kumar and Geeta Agrawal Sharma in pivotal roles.

Adding to its unique appeal, the family entertainer features canine performers Oscar and Bruno, with more than 250 dogs appearing throughout the film. The story explores the emotional bond between a young child and his pet while blending humour, heartfelt moments and social commentary, a storytelling style that has become synonymous with Rai's work.

With its theatrical release now delayed, audiences will have to wait a little longer to witness the heartwarming tale. However, the postponement is expected to give the film a better opportunity to reach viewers without competing against one of the year's biggest Hollywood releases.

Also Read: Amit Rai directorial Ohh My Dog gets U/A certificate after CBFC orders 7 changes

Prosit Roy, who recently garnered widespread appreciation for his Amazon Prime Video series Raakh, is reportedly gearing up for an exciting new collaboration. According to a report by Pinkvilla, the filmmaker is expected to join hands with Dharma Productions for an untitled psychological romance, marking a rare and intriguing creative partnership.

While Dharma Productions has long been associated with grand romantic entertainers and commercial cinema, the production house is now said to be exploring a psychological love story with Roy at the helm. If the reports are to be believed, the project is currently in its initial stages of development, with the casting process yet to begin. As per the report, the makers are aiming to take the film on floors by the end of this year, provided everything progresses as planned.

A source quoted in the report shared insight into Roy’s vision for the project, saying, “Prosit has a very strong conviction for psychological stories, and that is clearly visible in the way he approaches his characters. After Raakh, he wanted to take up something that would allow him to explore love and relationships through a psychological lens. This is a very solid psychological love story, and Prosit is extremely passionate about it already.”

The source further added, “Everyone at Dharma is very excited about this film. They believe in Prosit’s vision and the world he has created for this story. It is a fresh take on the psychological love story genre, and the team is keen to bring it to the audience in the right way. The casting process will begin soon, and the makers are looking at taking the film on the floors towards the end of the year.”

Although the film remains untitled and no actors have been finalized so far, the reported collaboration has already generated considerable curiosity among cinephiles. Roy has earned acclaim for bringing layered narratives and emotionally complex characters to the screen, making him a fitting choice for a story that blends romance with psychological elements.

For Dharma Productions, the project could represent another step towards expanding its storytelling palette by backing unconventional narratives alongside its mainstream offerings. A psychological romance is relatively unexplored territory in Hindi cinema, and the reported collaboration has the potential to offer audiences a refreshing take on the genre.

An official announcement regarding the project, including its cast and production timeline, is still awaited. Until then, fans will have to wait for confirmation from the makers on what could be one of the most anticipated filmmaker-producer collaborations in the coming months.

Also Read: Ramayana: Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions comes on board to distribute Ranbir Kapoor starrer in India, says report

After making her mark as an actor, Sheetal Menon has now ventured into filmmaking. Following her directorial debut with the short film Siblings, she is all set to release her deeply intimate and ambitiously cinematic second short, Duet. Backed by acclaimed filmmaker and her husband Bejoy Nambiar, Duet stars Sidhant Gupta as a pianist going through a turbulent phase in his life. Duet also stands out for being the first film to release on Spotify. Meanwhile, earlier this year, Bejoy also had a release, Tu Yaa Main, starring Adarsh Gourav, Shanaya Kapoor and a terrifying crocodile. It was one of the most appreciated films of the year and yet, it didn’t get the box office success that it probably deserved. Moreover, it was a film meant for the big screen and to witness audiences freaking out and screaming in fear in some scenes added to the fun. Despite so many factors, the film missed the tag of a theatrical hit.

Sheetal Menon, who was credited under ‘Special Thanks’ in Tu Yaa Main, opened up about the creature thriller’s box office performance in an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama. She said, “You always hope that a film works. You try your best and hope that it has everything required to succeed in theatres.”

She added, “But what exactly does a film need to run successfully in cinemas? You put in your best effort, and the response to Tu Yaa Main was overwhelming. Yet, the film had mixed results at the box office. Of course, it is disappointing at some level. But you cannot sit with that disappointment. You have to get up, move on and try again.”

Sheetal admitted, “However, it wasn’t easy. You also feel helpless at times. How do you convince people to come to theatres and watch a film? We are living in a difficult period when audiences are no longer going to cinemas regularly. It is becoming increasingly difficult.”

Sheetal Menon added, “At the same time, there is still hope. I don’t think an experience like this would make anyone say, ‘I’m never going to do this again.’”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Sheetal Menon praises Sidhant Gupta’s EXTRAORDINARY dedication to her short film Duet: “I asked for 3 days; he gave me 9 months…even learned to play the piano”