Indus Chronicles

Bollywood legend Dharmendra, fondly known as the 'OG He-Man,' has been admitted to Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital after complaining of breathlessness. The news sparked immediate concern among his millions of fans and the wider film fraternity.

The 89-year-old veteran actor is currently under observation in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), but latest updates from the hospital indicate his condition is stable. Journalist Vickey Lalwani shared an update on social media after reportedly contacting the hospital, providing reassuring details directly from a staff member.

“Dharmendra came in complaining of breathlessness. He is in the ICU and he is sleeping now. Nothing to worry, I asked? No, right now nothing to worry. He is stable. His parameters are okay—the heart rate is 70, the blood pressure is 140 by 80. His urine output is also good,” he stated in a social media post.

While initial reports had suggested the visit was for a routine check-up, the hospital’s confirmation that the actor was admitted due to difficulty in breathing has clarified the severity of the episode. Doctors are closely monitoring the nonagenarian star, and his sons, actors Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, are said to be by his side.

Despite his age-related health concerns, Dharmendra has remained remarkably active. He last appeared in the film Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya and is slated to star in the war drama Ikkis, directed by Sriram Raghavan.

Also Read: Bobby Deol opens up on his father Dharmendra’s emotional praise for his acting evolution: “Now you understand yourself as an actor, now you know your capabilities”

Actor Ranbir Kapoor is embarking on a heartfelt mission to revive the iconic RK Studios, originally established by his legendary grandfather Raj Kapoor, according to a report by Mid-Day. The revival is not just a business move but a tribute to the Kapoor family legacy, with Ranbir focusing on producing films that carry the spirit of RK Studios while infusing a modern voice to resonate with today’s audience. The report mentions that plans are well underway, with several scripts shortlisted and production anticipated to begin soon.

As part of the revival, Ranbir aims to re-establish the studio as a prominent creative hub in Mumbai, possibly including an office space and screening theater to foster collaboration in the industry. The initiative also marks a continuation of his late father Rishi Kapoor’s dream to carry forward the family’s cinematic heritage. Alongside Ranbir’s directorial debut, the revived studio will back projects featuring some of Bollywood’s top talents, including collaborations with Deepika Padukone and director Ayan Mukerji.

The reopening of RK Studios is expected to be a grand affair, paying homage to its golden era under Raj Kapoor, and serves as a symbolic passing of the torch to the next generation of filmmakers. This significant move further cements Ranbir Kapoor’s role not only as a leading actor but also as a custodian of one of Indian cinema’s most treasured legacies.​

RK Studios, established by the legendary Raj Kapoor in 1948, produced some of the most iconic films in Indian cinema including Awaara (1951), Barsaat (1949), Mera Naam Joker (1970), Bobby (1973), Satyam Shivam Sundaram (1978), Prem Rog (1982), and Ram Teri Ganga Maili (1985), which was Kapoor's last film before his death.

The last film produced under the RK Films banner was Aa Ab Laut Chalen (1999), directed by Rishi Kapoor. Over time, RK Studios faced a decline as the film industry shifted locations to Mumbai’s northern suburbs. The 2017 fire that gutted the studio during a reality show shoot was the final blow, destroying invaluable memorabilia, costumes, and the physical studio space. Due to the increasing maintenance costs and the impracticality of rebuilding, the Kapoor family decided to sell RK Studios, marking the end of an era for the historic studio,

Also Read: BREAKING: Ranbir Kapoor’s Love And War bows out of Eid 2026 clash with Yash’s Toxic; to release post June 2026

Red Chillies Entertainment has filed its official reply to Sameer Wankhede’s defamation suit against The Ba***ds of Bollywood, the Netflix show he claims was designed to tarnish his reputation. Wankhede, the former NCB officer who led the 2021 drugs case involving Shah Rukh Khan’s son Aryan Khan, had approached the court alleging that the makers had portrayed a character resembling him in both appearance and mannerisms.

In its response, Red Chillies Entertainment maintained that the series is a Bollywood satire, and all characters in it are depicted with deliberately exaggerated traits to heighten the humour. The production house argued that the complaint was an attempt to curtail artistic and creative freedom and described Wankhede’s stance as an instance of “hypersensitivity.”

The reply further pointed out that Wankhede’s image had already been subject to widespread public scrutiny long before the show’s release. According to the filing, the former officer’s involvement in the Aryan Khan case had drawn considerable criticism and ridicule, as reflected in news coverage, social media discussions, and public commentary at the time. Red Chillies stated that these materials clearly demonstrated that his reputation had been affected earlier, and that the lawsuit was an attempt to silence satirical portrayals that fall under creative expression.

Represented by senior advocates Neeraj Kishan Kaul and Shyel Trehan, the production company also requested the court to allow the show to remain intact, asserting that removing the contested scene would disrupt the series’ narrative flow. The makers clarified that the show does not directly name or reference Wankhede, and that the police officer character is merely depicted as an “overzealous” cop — a common trope in dark comedies and satires.

The case, which came up before Justice Purushindra Kumar on Thursday, has now been adjourned to November 10 for further proceedings.

The Ba***ds of Bollywood, streaming on Netflix, has drawn attention for its unapologetically sharp commentary on celebrity culture, media frenzy, and the moral ambiguity within the film industry — themes that continue to spark debate about where the line between satire and defamation should be drawn.

Also Read: Sameer Wankhede denies having any grudges against Shah Rukh Khan and family: “I’m just a Government Servant, not living in a Banana Republic”

The Bachchan legacy continues as Agastya Nanda steps into the spotlight once again this time in Sriram Raghavan’s much-awaited war drama Ikkis. The film’s trailer introduces Agastya as Param Vir Chakra awardee Arun Khetarpal, one of India’s youngest and most celebrated war heroes.

Directed by Sriram Raghavan, known for acclaimed thrillers like Ek Haseena Thi, Badlapur and Andhadhun, Ikkis brings to screen the extraordinary courage and humanity of a soldier who laid down his life in the 1971 war. The trailer hints at a sensitive and restrained take on patriotism a hallmark of Raghavan’s storytelling. The film also stars Dharmendra and Jaideep Ahlawat, with Agastya Nanda leading the narrative as the brave, idealistic officer whose story continues to inspire generations.

A third-generation actor from the iconic Bachchan family, Agastya, son of Shweta Bachchan and grandson of Amitabh and Jaya Bachchan, who made his acting debut in Zoya Akhtar’s The Archies. With Ikkis, he takes a sharp turn into a more intense and realistic role.

Jaya Bachchan shared her thoughts on her grandson’s journey and preparation for the role. “Luckily, Agastya is a fast learner. Neither of his parents are actors, so he’s leaning on his grandparents and his Maamu (Uncle) Abhishek Bachchan for guidance,” she revealed. “You know me — I wouldn’t praise anyone, least of all my own children or grandchildren. But Agastya is special. That child is determined to forge his own path. Just like I once did. Like me, he won’t follow the herd.”

Set for a December 2025 release, Ikkis marks a powerful collaboration between a visionary filmmaker and a young actor with an iconic lineage — promising a blend of emotion, authenticity, and cinematic impact.

Also Read: Amitabh Bachchan pens emotional note for grandson Agastya Nanda as Ikkis trailer drops: “You are SPECIAL… all my prayers and blessings to you”

Actress Ananya Panday is just a day away from turning 27 on October 30, 2025. While social media hints that her birthday celebrations have already begun, fans might also have a surprise waiting for them. As per the latest buzz, the first look of her upcoming film Tu Meri Main Tera, Main Tera Tu Meri is set to be unveiled on her birthday, followed by the trailer launch on co-star Kartik Aaryan’s 35th birthday, November 22.

Yes, you read that right! A report by Mid-Day quoted a source saying, “The team wanted the first-look reveal to feel special, and Ananya’s birthday felt like the perfect occasion.” The insider further added, “Through their marketing strategy, the makers want to celebrate both leads—first Ananya with the poster, then Kartik with the trailer.”

Meanwhile, Kartik recently opened up about reuniting with Ananya after Pati Patni Aur Woh. In a conversation with Hindustan Times, he said, “The film has shaped up beautifully; it’s got that perfect mix of heart, fun, and festive energy. We had a blast shooting it, and that vibe translates on screen. Reuniting with Ananya was like picking up where we left off—she was a total live wire on set. She’s going to surprise everyone. I’m sure the audience will enjoy our chemistry as Ray and Rumi in this fun, refreshing rom-com.”

For the unversed, Tu Meri Main Tera, Main Tera Tu Meri marks Kartik’s first collaboration with Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions, while it will be Ananya’s sixth project under the banner after Student Of The Year 2, Gehraiyaan, Liger, Call Me Bae, and Kesari Chapter 2: The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh. Besides this, Ananya also has her seventh Dharma project, Chand Mera Dil, co-starring Lakshya Lalwani, in the pipeline. So far, only the announcement video of Tu Meri Main Tera… has been released. The film is directed by Sameer Vidwans.

Also Read: 5-Day Extended Weekend & Festive Fervour: Kartik Aaryan–Ananya Panday’s Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri hits the most LUCRATIVE box office window of the year

Actors Rahul Bhat and Dia Mirza are all set to share the screen for the first time in an untitled love story helmed by Indo-German filmmaker Kanwal Sethi. The upcoming film, produced by Kovid Gupta Films, is said to explore love and human emotions through a mature and soulful lens, blending poetic storytelling with contemporary realism.

Rahul Bhat, known for his sharp script choices and impactful performances, continues to strengthen his reputation as one of Indian cinema’s most versatile actors. Following his acclaimed role in Black Warrant and his festival-favourite turn in Kennedy, Bhat will soon be seen in The Wives directed by Madhur Bhandarkar, as well as his Hollywood debut Lost & Found In Kumbh, alongside other upcoming projects.

The film also marks a refreshing collaboration with Dia Mirza, whose grace and emotional authenticity have long resonated with audiences. Having consistently chosen meaningful and socially conscious projects, Dia brings her characteristic depth and poise to this story of nuanced relationships.

Director Kanwal Sethi, celebrated for his work in both Indian and international cinema, is known for crafting intimate human stories with universal resonance. His upcoming venture is expected to capture the lyrical essence of romance while delving into the emotional complexities of modern love.

The project is being produced by Kovid Gupta, a filmmaker, screenwriter, and author who founded Kovid Gupta Films in 2018 with a focus on creating meaningful and engaging cinema. A former Head of Business Development at Vinod Chopra Films, Gupta is also the author of two bestselling books — Kingdom of the Soap Queen: The Story of Balaji Telefilms and Redrawing India: The Teach For India Story.

While details about the title, supporting cast, and release timeline remain under wraps, industry insiders suggest the film will be a visually rich and emotionally charged story that traverses cultural and emotional landscapes.

With Kanwal Sethi’s cross-cultural sensibilities, the fresh pairing of Rahul Bhat and Dia Mirza, and Kovid Gupta’s vision as producer, this untitled love story is already shaping up to be one of the most anticipated cinematic collaborations of the year.

Also Read: Crafted for Rs 54.5k, Dia Mirza’s Zari-Linen ensemble is quiet luxury done right!

Fans of Partner have reason to rejoice — Salman Khan and Govinda might soon share screen space again. After weeks of speculation, a source close to the development has confirmed that the two stars are indeed coming together for a new project.

“Yes, Salman Khan and Govinda are coming together for a project. The film is currently in the early stages and yet to be titled. Details are being kept under wraps for now, but fans can definitely expect a grand reunion of this iconic duo,” the source revealed.

The duo last worked together in David Dhawan’s 2007 comedy Partner, which became a massive box office hit and remains one of Bollywood’s most loved comedies. Their effortless chemistry and comic timing were widely appreciated, making them one of the most memorable on-screen pairs of that era.

The news gained traction after Salman Khan recently hinted on an episode of Bigg Boss that a collaboration with Govinda might be on the cards. While no official announcement has been made yet, fans have already flooded social media with excitement, hoping this reunion leads to another laughter-filled entertainer.

Also Read: Salman Khan never made Govinda feel his career was struggling during Partner shoot, reveals Deepshikha Nagpal

Actor Salman Khan is at the center of a major international controversy after reportedly being declared a terrorist by the Balochistan government. The development follows his comments during an address at the Riyadh Forum, where he appeared to refer to Pakistan and Balochistan as separate countries—a statement that quickly went viral and sparked intense debate online.​

According to widely shared posts on social media platform X, it is alleged that the Balochistan government has added Salman Khan’s name to Pakistan’s ‘Fourth Schedule’ under the country’s Anti-Terrorism Act (1997). This schedule is used to monitor individuals suspected of connections to extremist or banned organizations. If Salman Khan’s name is indeed on the list, it would subject him to strict legal scrutiny, travel restrictions, and ongoing government vigilance.

A notification dated October 16, 2025, attributed to social media user Nasir Azeem, has been circulated as evidence of the declaration. The document names Salman as an “Azad Balochistan Facilitator”; however, as of now, no credible Pakistani media outlet or official government channel has confirmed the document’s authenticity, raising questions about the veracity of the claims.

The uproar began after a video clip from the Riyadh Forum showed Salman Khan, while discussing the influence of Indian films in the Middle East, remarking that there are people in Saudi Arabia from “Balochistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan,” appearing to mention Balochistan separately. Bollywood stars Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan were also present on stage at that moment.

Salman’s statement was, “Right now, if you make a Hindi film and release it in Saudi Arabia, it will be a superhit. If you make a Tamil, Telugu, or Malayali film, it will do hundreds of crores in business because so many people from other countries have come here. There are people from Balochistan, there are people from Afghanistan, there are people from Pakistan, everyone is working here”.

As it stands, Salman Khan has not commented publicly on the controversy, and the Balochistan government has not released any official statement confirming his inclusion on the Fourth Schedule of Pakistan’s Anti-Terrorism Act. The situation continues to develop, with observers awaiting authoritative clarification.

Also Read: Salman Khan separates ‘Balochistan’ from ‘Pakistan’ at Joy Forum 2025; sparks debate online

The grand Diwali release Thamma is a part of the much-loved Maddock Horror Comedy Universe and hence, it was expected that characters from the earlier films will make it in the Ayushmann Khurrana-starrer. Way back in July, Bollywood Hungama had revealed that Varun Dhawan appears in the film, reprising the role of Bhediya. We also stated that the actor shot for 6 days and the scene in question would be a visual spectacle. Bollywood Hungama has now stumbled upon some fascinating details.

A source told us, “The makers decided to go all out with the scene of Betaal vs Bhediya. Hence, a mind-boggling amount of Rs. 20 crores was spent just on that sequence. Producer Dinesh Vijan was clear – the fight scene should have top-class VFX that should stun the viewers. After all, the scene is very crucial for the future of the universe.”

The source further said, “Amar Kaushik, the founder and mentor of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe, serves as the producer of Thamma. But for the crucial scene of Bhediya, he was present on the set to supervise. A lot was at stake; so, Amar decided to be present when the scene was being filmed. Thamma’s director, Aditya Sarpotdar, was informed about it in advance and he understood Amar’s point of view. He was more than happy to have Amar on the set and was also more than happy to take his valuable inputs.”

Thamma starred Ayushmann Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna, Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Paresh Rawal.

The breathtaking Betaal vs Bhediya showdown left the audience in awe, blending cutting-edge VFX with Amar Kaushik’s trademark storytelling flair. With Thamma now cementing the foundation for the next chapter in the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe, fans can expect even grander crossovers and deeper connections in the films to come.

Also Read: Flam and Maddock Films bring India’s FIRST 3D mixed-reality experience to Thamma

Director Sandeep Reddy Vanga dropped a special birthday surprise for rebel star Prabhas, giving fans a glimpse into their much-awaited collaboration, Spirit, backed by producer Bhushan Kumar. The gesture has stirred excitement across the industry, with anticipation now running high for this powerful duo’s next venture.

On the occasion of Prabhas’s birthday, the Animal director unveiled what he called a “Sound Story” an audio teaser that introduces the tone and atmosphere of Spirit in an innovative way. Sharing the announcement on social media, Vanga wrote,

“Happy Birthday Prabhas anna. Presenting a ‘SOUND-STORY’ in five Indian languages straight from the heart, for every fan who’s felt his…”

The “Sound Story” opens with a prison sequence where a jailer instructs his team to treat a former police officer-turned-prisoner like any other inmate. The moment that captured everyone’s attention is when Prabhas’s voice calmly declares, “Sir, since childhood I have one bad habit.”

Backed by T-Series and Bhadrakali Pictures, Spirit is set to be a grand-scale pan-world entertainer. With Prabhas taking on the role of a fierce and intense cop, and Triptii Dimri bringing her distinctive screen presence to the narrative, Spirit is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated films on the horizon.

Released in five languages Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam the audio teaser has already generated massive buzz online. By releasing it on Prabhas’s birthday, Sandeep Reddy Vanga and Bhushan Kumar have not only given fans a powerful glimpse into their next collaboration but also reaffirmed Prabhas’s stature as, in Vanga’s words, “India’s biggest superstar.”

Also Read: Deepika Padukone BREAKS SILENCE on 8-hour workday demand after exit from Spirit and Kalki sequel: “If that comes across as pushy, so be it”

Sunny Deol has set social media alight with the announcement of his next venture titled Ikka, unveiling a gripping motion poster that promises a hard-hitting cinematic experience.

On his Instagram page, Sunny shared the motion poster along with the caption, “Naa koi ghulam, naa koi badshah sirf IKKA.” The phrase immediately set the tone suggesting a story of resistance, authority and personal power.

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  A post shared by Sunny Deol (@iamsunnydeol)

The first look arrives soon after Sunny also announced another film, Gabru, which is slated for release in theatres on 13 March 2026. While details such as cast and storyline for Ikka are still under wraps, the poster has already become a talking point among fans and media alike. Actress Ameesha Patel responded to the reveal by commenting simply, “Handsomee.”

Sunny, whose recent revival in the blockbuster Gadar 2 reaffirmed his action-hero credentials, appears to be returning to his forte with Ikka. Given his track-record of intense, themes-driven roles, the film is being watched closely for how it shapes up.

The motion poster marks a strategic teaser move keeping the audience intrigued. While the full narrative and ensemble remain unrevealed, the bold announcement underlines Sunny Deol’s intent to deliver another powerhouse outing.

As excitement builds, industry insiders and fans alike will be on the lookout for further updates cast announcements, director reveal, production house details, and other key information that will flesh out what Ikka truly stands for.

Also Read : Sunny Deol announces his next film Gabru, set to release in March 2026

Bollywood Hungama was among the first ones to confirm that Aneet Padda, who became a nationwide sensation with Saiyaara (2025), has replaced Kiara Advani in Shakti Shalini. On October 19, we also brought to you the news that Shakti Shalini’s announcement video is attached with Thamma, the grand Diwali release. And now, we bring to you another exciting update from the film. It has come to light that Shakti Shalini will release in cinemas on December 24, 2026.

Just like Thamma, Shakti Shalini also belongs to the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe. The blockbuster franchise began with Stree (2018) followed by Bhediya (2022). Munjya (2024) came next and it was a sleeper super-hit. Stree 2 (2024) emerged as the highest Bollywood grosser of all time. Thamma is the fifth film of the universe.

When Shakti Shalini starred Kiara Advani, the plan was to release it on December 31, 2025. With the Aneet Padda-starrer having moved to 2026, it means that three films of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe will arrive next year – Shakti Shalini, Chamunda and Bhediya 2. Stree 3 will arrive in 2027. In 2028, the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe will end with a bang with three exciting movies, namely Maha Munjya, Pehla Mahayudh and Doosara Mahayudh.

Until now, prominent names are a part of this world like Shraddha Kapoor, Rajkummar Rao, Sharvari, Ayushmann Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna, Varun Dhawan, Aneet Padda and above all, Akshay Kumar. Many more famous actors are expected to join the series in these upcoming films.

The Maddock Horror Comedy Universe has turned into India’s own Marvel-style saga — and Shakti Shalini could be the next major chapter tying all the worlds together. With each film introducing new characters and mythologies, the stage is now set for a multi-film crossover event that fans have long awaited.

Also Read: Shakti Shalini announcement video to debut with Thamma: First glimpse reveals Aneet Padda’s starring role

After the debacle of War 2, director Ayan Mukerji has decided to take a backseat as the director of Dhoom 4. Sources close to the development confirm that Ayan has backed off from Dhoom 4 and, in a closed-door conversation with Aditya Chopra, conveyed his reservation. "Ayan believes that films like War 2 and Dhoom 4 were never meant for him, and he wants to do something a lot wider with scope for romance, drama with spectacle vibes and storytelling," an insider told Bollywood Hungama.

The insider informed Bollywood Hungama, "Ayan was just executing what was written on paper by Shridhar Raghavan, and had little say on the script and screenplay. He does not want to be on another journey of just execution, as he is a passionate filmmaker who prefers to exclusively work on the written material and bring more to the screen than what's written."

The source also confirms that the decision to step back from Dhoom 4 has been taken after a series of conversations with Aditya Chopra and Ranbir Kapoor. "Both Chopra and Kapoor understood Ayan's point of view and have parted ways on the right note. Ayan is now working on Brahmastra 2 and will take the film on floors in 2026. The writing work is concluded, and some polishing is going on during his stay in the Himalayas."

Aditya Chopra is meanwhile exploring more direction options. "Insiders at YRF have also suggested that the boss direct the new Dhoom film himself, as Ranbir has already allotted his dates for the new Dhoom film." A lot more drama will unfold in the days to come. Also Read: Priyanka Chopra pays a surprise visit to Durga Puja pandal organized by Kajol and Rani Mukerji’s families, poses with Ayan Mukerji and Tanishaa Mukerji

The third generation of the illustrious Khanna family is all set to enter the movie industry. Yesteryears’ superstar Rajesh Khanna and Dimple Kapadia’s granddaughter Naomika Saran will make her screen debut in film being produced by Dinesh Vijan of Maddock Films.

Naomika is the daughter of Rajesh and Dimple’s younger daughter Rinke Khanna who was once an aspiring actress in Filmistan. Rinke did films like Pyar Mein Kabhi Kabhi and Jis Desh Ganga Mein Rehta Hai. When she was removed by Ram Gopal Varma from his film Company and replaced by Manisha Koirala, Rinke quite the film industry, got married and migrated to the West.

Now, her daughter is all set to rekindle the Khanna magic on screen. Naomika’s co-star in her debut film is the talented Vedang Raina, Alia Bhatt’s co-star in Jigra, currently shooting for a film with Imtiaz Ali in Punjab.

Also Read: Naomika Saran, Rajesh Khanna’s granddaughter, to debut in romantic comedy opposite Vedang Raina: Report

Actress Zaira Wasim has officially announced her marriage. She took to Instagram to share the joyous news with the caption, “Qubool hai x3.” The post featured two serene glimpses from her wedding ceremony, one showing her signing the nikah papers adorned in henna and jewelry, and another capturing her and her husband from behind, gazing at the full moon, symbolizing a sacred new beginning.

Zaira, who stepped away from the film industry in 2019 citing her spiritual journey, made a rare social media appearance to share the personal milestone. She did not reveal her husband’s identity or show his face, choosing to maintain the privacy she has long valued. Dressed in a red embroidered bridal ensemble with golden detailing, Zaira looked every bit the traditional bride in a ceremony that seemed intimate and elegant.

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  A post shared by Zaira Wasim (@zairawasim_)

Fans and well-wishers flooded the comments section with blessings and congratulatory messages. One user wrote, “Allahumma barik, sister. May Allah bless your marriage … till Jannah, Ameen,” while others expressed joy at her return to social media for such a heartfelt reason.

Zaira rose to fame as the young Geeta Phogat in Aamir Khan’s Dangal (2016), a performance that earned her widespread acclaim and a National Film Award. She went on to star in Secret Superstar (2017) and The Sky Is Pink (2019) before choosing to leave the film world, saying it conflicted with her faith.

With her simple caption, “Qubool hai x3,” Zaira Wasim announced her wedding with grace and humility, marking not just a union but a quiet reaffirmation of the life choices she stands by away from the limelight, on her own terms.

Three days are left for the release of the grand Diwali biggie, Thamma, and the excitement is gradually building up. The makers, Maddock Films, completed the censor process on time and in this article, Bollywood Hungama will exclusively focus on the cuts suffered by the horror comedy.

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) asked for audio cuts in three places and one visual modification as well. The word 'Alexander' was replaced with ‘Sikandar’. In another dialogue, the word ‘Ashwathama’ was muted.

In the second half of the film, the words 'Azaadi doonga' were replaced with 'Aiyaashi karata hoon'. The Examining Committee also asked the makers to ‘reduce the slurping sound of drinking blood to minimum’. Finally, a kissing scene in the second half was reduced by 30%, that is, by 5 seconds.

The last modification may dampen the excitement of the moviegoers but on the positive side, this is the shortest intimacy cut asked by the CBFC in recent times. In Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari, liplock visuals were reduced by 60%. In Saiyaara, the makers were instructed to delete and replace 10 seconds of ‘sensual, intimacy, body exposure visuals’. Lastly, in Superman, the CBFC axed 33 seconds of ‘sensual visual’ from Superman. It led to massive criticism as the studio had to make abrupt cuts to accommodate CBFC’s directive.

Coming back to Thamma, once the changes were made, the censor certificate was handed over to the makers on October 15. The film was passed with a U/A 16+ rating. The length of the movie, as mentioned on the censor certificate, is 149.59 minutes. In other words, Thamma is 2 hours 29 minutes and 59 seconds long.

Thamma releases on Tuesday, October 21 and stars Ayushmann Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna, Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Paresh Rawal. It is backed by blockbuster producer Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock Films and directed by Aditya Sarpotdar of Munjya (2024) fame. It is a part of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe and hence, belongs to the same world as Stree, Bhediya and Munjya.

Also Read: Thamma Creates Diwali Frenzy: Thamma advance tickets selling fast after historic fan screening in Delhi

The much-anticipated Diwali releases, Thamma and Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat, are just days away, and the excitement across the trade, industry, and audiences is palpable. As with every major festive clash, the battle for screens has intensified. Bollywood Hungama has learned that the first round of this tussle between the distributors of both films has already begun.

A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “Thamma, starring Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna, is being distributed by PVR Inox Pictures. Its distributor-partner in the Mumbai circuit, August Entertainment, has sent a mail to cinemas in the territory informing them about their screen-sharing requirements. They have asked for all shows in single-screen cinemas and two screen theatres. They have also asked for 12 shows in three-screen multiplexes; it means 100% showcasing in two of the three screens and a show or two in the third screen as well.”

The mail from August Entertainment further states that they want 15 shows of Thamma in four-screen theatres, 18 shows in five-screen cinemas, 21 shows in six-screen multiplexes, 24 shows in seven-screen multiplexes, 27 shows in eight-screen multiplexes, 30 shows in nine-screen plexes and 33 shows in 10-screen theatres.

It’s important to note that this move has come directly from August Entertainment, which is handling the release of Thamma in the Mumbai circuit. How distributors in other regions respond, and whether they follow suit with similar demands, remains to be seen.

Nevertheless, the exhibitors have expressed reservations. An exhibitor told us, “We would definitely want to show Thamma as it looks exciting. But single-screen cinemas should also be given a chance to play Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat. In fact, it’s the single-screen theatres where the Harshvardhan Rane-film can score big time. And let’s not forget that the Marathi film Premachi Goshta 2 and the Gujarati film Chaniya Toli are also up for release this Diwali. Some cinemas would want to accommodate it as well. Hence, we hope a solution can be found.”

Another exhibitor remarked, “The mail from August Entertainment mentions that the rule exists only for non-PVR, non-Inox and non-Cinepolis cinemas. We feel it’s not fair and it should be uniform for all cinemas.”

Meanwhile, a trade expert commented, “Just a few weeks ago, we saw what happened during the Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1 vs Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari clash. At that time, the makers of the former asked for 100% shows in single-screen, two-screen and three-screen cinemas. Even in theatres with four screens and more, they asked for nearly 80-90% of showcasing. At least, the distributors are reasonable in the case of Thamma.”

Also Read: Ayushmann Khurrana flashes fake vampire teeth as he and Rashmika Mandanna promote Thamma in Delhi

Deepika Padukone has created history by becoming the first Indian to lend her voice to Meta AI, the virtual assistant integrated into Meta’s ecosystem, including the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, joining the list of the global lineup of voices for the AI assistant, including Hollywood celebrities Awkwafina, Judi Dench, etc. The collaboration marks a powerful intersection of technology and culture, positioning Deepika as a bridge between global innovation and Indian identity.

Meta announced that users in India will now be able to interact with Meta AI through Deepika’s voice, available in Indian English. Alongside this, the company introduced full Hindi language support and UPI Lite payments, making the experience more localised and personal. Yet, the biggest talking point remains Deepika’s voice — warm, poised, and unmistakably familiar.

Known for her global influence and grounded presence, Deepika brings authenticity and emotion to a space often dominated by synthetic tones. Her voice adds a human touch to artificial intelligence — turning digital interactions into something relatable and distinctly Indian. For millions of users, hearing Deepika guide them through tasks or respond to questions adds a sense of comfort and connection rarely found in technology.

This partnership also represents India’s growing significance in the global tech landscape. By featuring Deepika, Meta acknowledges India’s cultural power and linguistic diversity. The move goes beyond convenience — it celebrates representation and the inclusion of an Indian identity within a global product.

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For Deepika, this step expands her influence beyond cinema into the realm of digital innovation. It’s another milestone in a career defined by versatility, intelligence, and impact. With this collaboration, she becomes not just the voice of Meta AI — but the voice of a new era where technology feels a little more human, and a lot more Indian.

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Hrithik Roshan has moved the Delhi High Court by filing a petition seeking safeguards for his name, image, likeness and other aspects of his persona against unauthorised commercial use and misuse. This comes days after veteran playback singer Kumar Sanu sought legal protection for his personality rights, and the matter is expected to be heard on Wednesday, according to a report by Bar and Bench.

With the increasing use of generative AI and deepfake technologies, several Indian celebrities have been turning to the courts to protect their digital and personal identities. Hrithik joins a growing list of public figures — including Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Jackie Shroff, Anil Kapoor, Abhishek Bachchan, Kumar Sanu, and even the late Ratan Tata — who have sought injunctions to prevent unauthorised exploitation of their name or likeness, often through AI-generated content.

Personality rights, also known as publicity rights, give individuals legal control over how their name, image, voice, and other identifiable traits are used commercially. While India does not yet have a dedicated law governing these rights, courts have upheld them under the right to privacy guaranteed by Article 21 of the Constitution and through existing principles of common law.

Hrithik Roshan, who was last seen in War 2 which released on August 14, has been in the spotlight not only for his films but also for his new venture as a producer. The actor recently kicked off his debut production Storm in collaboration with Amazon Prime Video under his banner HRX Films. Known for his carefully curated projects and strong public image, Hrithik’s move to secure his personality rights reflects a growing concern among stars about their identity being misused in the age of AI-generated videos, fake endorsements and manipulated content.

As courts continue to issue directions to online platforms for removing infringing material, legal experts believe more celebrities will take similar steps until India establishes a dedicated framework to regulate the commercial use of personal likenesses in the digital era.

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Actor Salman Khan, who’s currently hosting Bigg Boss 19, didn’t hold back as he addressed director AR Murugadoss’s recent comments accusing him of reporting late to the sets of their film Sikandar. The actor used the popular reality show’s Weekend Ka Vaar episode to respond with his trademark wit and characteristic candour.

The Background: Murugadoss's Allegation Earlier, Sikandar director AR Murugadoss had told Valaipechu Voice that working with a major Bollywood star posed challenges. He claimed Salman would “arrive only by 8 PM,” forcing the crew to shoot even day scenes at night. Murugadoss described the schedule as chaotic, saying it affected child actors who had to film late into the night. Despite acknowledging his own creative shortcomings, the director hinted that the erratic timing contributed to the film’s underperformance. Salman’s Retort on Bigg Boss 19 Addressing the issue head-on during Bigg Boss 19, Salman responded to a question from comedian Ravi Gupta about films he regrets doing. After naming some older projects like Suryavanshi and Nishchay, the Tiger 3 actor clarified he had no regrets about recent films — including Sikandar.

He then took a playful yet pointed jab at Murugadoss, saying, “Main set pe raat ke 9 baje pahuchta tha, meri pasaliyan tooti thi (I used to reach the set at 9 PM, but my ribs were fractured).” In a sarcastic tone, Salman added, “Hamare director sahab bolte the aisa, lekin unki picture jo abhi release hui hai, uske actor to 6 baje pahuchte the” — a clear dig at Murugadoss’s latest Tamil release Madharaasi, which also struggled to impress audiences.

Salman Khan Takes A Dig at Sikandar Producer and Box Office Jibe

Salman further remarked that both producer Sajid Nadiadwala and Murugadoss distanced themselves from Sikandar after its box-office failure. “Pehle Sajid kalti, phir Murugadoss South sidha,” he quipped, hinting that the team moved on quickly after the film’s underwhelming performance.

Continuing his banter, the actor cheekily praised Madharaasi as a “bigger blockbuster than Sikandar,” accompanied by a knowing smile — a statement that drew laughter from the Bigg Boss audience.

#Latest: On the #BiggBoss19 set, Megastar #SalmanKhan finally opened up about what went wrong with Sikandar and took a strong stand against director A.R. Murugadoss - the same man who gave interviews blaming Bhai for the film's failure. ???? Bhai giving a reality check was much… pic.twitter.com/mPtxQQ0zKm — Er.Sohail (@BeingSohail__) October 12, 2025

Released earlier this year, Sikandar told the emotional story of Rajkot’s king Sanjay Rajkot (played by Salman Khan) and his journey to protect three people who had received organ donations from his late wife, portrayed by Rashmika Mandanna.

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