Indus Chronicles

Bollywood Hungama has been at the forefront in giving news about Andaaz 2 ever since its launch. In November 2023, we announced that it went on the floors. A month later, we informed readers that it’ll launch Aayush Kumar and Akaisha and also star Natasha Fernandez. Earlier this year, producer-director Suneel Darshan unveiled the teaser and exciting posters of the film along with some of the songs. And now, the makers have locked the release date of the film.

Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learned that Andaaz 2 will arrive in cinemas on August 1, 2025. A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “The makers realized that it’s an ideal date for the film considering that there won’t be a significant release on August 8 since it's the pre-Independence week. Hence, Andaaz 2 will get a nice two-week window to prove its worth at the ticket window.”

On this significant occasion of the release date announcement, Andaaz 2 makers also launched four cool posters, again exclusively with Bollywood Hungama. Three posters belong to the leading actors while one poster features all three of them together.

In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama in March 2024, director Suneel Darshan said, “Honestly, there was no calculation behind making Andaaz 2. When I wrote the script, I realized that Andaaz 2 is a befitting title. It's not the same story but somewhere, the storytelling was in the same zone and also, it was a musical and a love triangle just like Andaaz (2003) and much more. That’s how we ended up calling it Andaaz 2.”

In the same interview, Suneel Darshan revealed that he had initially planned to consider Aayush for the role of the lead hero’s friend but later changed his mind. On this, Aayush stated, “I came to meet him, hoping that I would be given some important role in the film. When Suneel sir told me (about the change in plan), I felt very fortunate.”

The music is composed by Nadeem and it is expected to be one of the USPs of the film. Suneel Darshan revealed, “We took our time constructing the music. It was very important to the structure of the film. Also, that era was of Kumar Sanu, Udit Narayan and Alka Yagnik. They worked in all of our films. Sonu Nigam had just come in at that time. But as two decades have passed since then, we have signed new and formidable singers. I retained Shaan as he was appropriate for one of the songs. Neeraj Shridhar has sung one song. From the younger lot, we have Javed Ali, Palak Mucchal, Asees Kaur, Amit Mishra, Mohd Irfan and Shadab Faridi. In short, there are 9 singers.”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Meet Andaaz 2 actor Aayush Kumar, the Gurgaon boy who WALKED OUT of his MBA exam to chase his Bollywood dream: “I knew all the answers. Yet, I didn’t write them. I just walked off”

Riteish Deshmukh’s portrayal of Sania in Apna Sapna Money Money, where he cross-dressed and adopted the persona of a woman, remains one of his most iconic comic roles. And now, it seems the actor is all set to revisit this memorable character in an upcoming film backed by veteran filmmaker Subhash Ghai.

On June 30, Ghai took to his social media handle to share a still of Riteish in his female avatar from the 2006 comedy. Alongside the image, he wrote, “She is our next heroine in our forthcoming film under Mukta Arts.” He further described him as “a classic beauty.” While the filmmaker has not disclosed additional details about the project, the post has already generated excitement among fans.

It’s worth noting that Apna Sapna Money Money isn’t the only film in which Riteish has played a female character. He also took on similar disguises in Humshakals, a Sajid Khan directorial co-starring Saif Ali Khan and Ram Kapoor.

SHE IS OUR NEXT HEROINE IN OUR FORTHCOMING FILM UNDER MUKTA ARTS ???? A Classic beauty ???? Can u guess the name of this BEAUTIFUL GIRL ? Please do write ????@muktaartsltd @muktaa2cinemas @whistling_woods pic.twitter.com/atNHlJSxJD — Subhash Ghai (@SubhashGhai1) June 30, 2025

For now, fans will have to wait for more updates, but the prospect of seeing Riteish return to his beloved comic timing and cross-dressing antics has certainly created a buzz.

On the professional front, Riteish was last seen in Raid 2, where he played the antagonist opposite Ajay Devgn. He also appeared in the fifth installment of the Housefull franchise. His upcoming slate includes several exciting projects, including Masti 4.

Additionally, Riteish is gearing up to direct his second film, Raja Shivaji, produced by Jio Studios and Mumbai Film Company. The historical action drama is slated for release on May 1, 2026, and will be released in six languages: Marathi, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam.

Also Read: Ajay Devgn and Riteish Deshmukh starrer Raid 2 to premiere on Netflix on June 26

Despite their debut projects receiving lukewarm responses, star kids Rasha Thadani and Ibrahim Ali Khan continue to enjoy significant popularity on social media. Now, there’s an exciting update for their fans—if reports are to be believed, the two are all set to share screen space for the first time in an upcoming film.

According to a report by Mid-Day, a source close to the production revealed, “Ibrahim and Rasha have been doing reading sessions and workshops. The makers were clear that they didn’t want just a glamorous pair, but two actors who could tap into the awkward, exhilarating energy of first love. Rasha and Ibrahim clicked from their very first meeting.” The source further added, “While he debuted with a rom-com, Ibrahim will be seen in intense roles in Sarzameen and Diler, the latter featuring him as a marathoner. After those two outings, this film—with its coming-of-age arc—will showcase a softer and more relatable side of him.”

If confirmed, this project would mark Ibrahim’s second foray into the romantic genre. His debut film Naadanaiyaan, which was released directly on Netflix, was a romantic comedy. However, his performance received mixed to negative feedback, with critics pointing out issues with his expressions, dialogue delivery, and dubbing.

On the other hand, Rasha made her debut in the theatrical release Azaad, which also introduced Ajay Devgn’s nephew, Aaman Devgn. While the film didn’t fare well at the box office, Rasha’s performance was appreciated by audiences.

It will certainly be interesting to see Rasha and Ibrahim come together for a romantic drama. As of now, there has been no official confirmation or denial from the actors or the makers. Fans will have to wait for an official announcement.

Also Read: Ibrahim Ali Khan misses Sara Ali Khan in London, pens adorable poem in response to her post; watch

Shefali Jariwala, best known for her appearance in the iconic music video ‘Kaanta Laga’, passed away on June 27, 2025, at the age of 42.

According to news agency ANI, "Mumbai Police received information about this at 1 a.m. Her body has been sent to Cooper Hospital for postmortem. The cause of death is not yet clear." However, the All Indian Cine Workers Association has claimed that Shefali Jariwala died due to a heart attack. Fans will have to wait for an official confirmation from the authorities or her husband, actor Parag Tyagi.

Shefali Jariwala is no longer with us. Gone too soon at just 42 due to a sudden heart attack. It’s hard to believe she’s gone. May her soul rest in peace, and may God give strength to her family during this heartbreaking time.#RIPShefaliJariwala #GoneTooSoon #RestInPeace… pic.twitter.com/ZUnI3WlETr

— All Indian Cine Workers Association (@AICWAOfficial) June 28, 2025

For those unfamiliar, Shefali rose to fame with her dance performance in 'Kaanta Laga.' Following the song’s success, she went on to participate in several reality shows, including Nach Baliye 5, Nach Baliye 7 (alongside Parag Tyagi), and Bigg Boss 13. Shefali had a strong social media presence, with 3.3 million followers on Instagram and 135k on X (formerly Twitter).

Notably, her last tweet was a heartfelt tribute to the late actor and her ex-boyfriend, Sidharth Shukla. The post, shared on September 2, 2024, featured a photo of the two hugging inside the Bigg Boss 13 house, accompanied by the caption: “Thinking of you today mere dost.”

Thinking of you today mere dost @sidharth_shukla ❤️ pic.twitter.com/sZNv6Ft1hG — Shefali Jariwala (@shefalijariwala) September 2, 2024

The news of Shefali’s sudden passing has shocked the film and television industry. Colleagues, co-stars, and friends took to social media to express their grief. Bigg Boss fame Aly Goni wrote on X, “Shocked and saddened to hear about Shefali Jariwala’s sudden demise. Life is so unpredictable. Rest in peace.”

Yeh Hai Mohabbatein actress Divyanka Tripathi shared, “It’s unbelievable. We are shocked and sad for the family.”

Singer Mika Singh also mourned her loss, writing, “I’m deeply shocked, saddened, and feeling a heavy heart… Our beloved star and my dearest friend @shefalijariwala has left us. Still can’t believe it. You will always be remembered for your grace, smile, and spirit. Om Shanti.”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Kaanta Laga girl Shefali Jariwala REACTS to paparazzi shooting her backside; says, “I have never felt disrespected by them”

The mythological-horror film Maa was released today, June 27, and it has caught attention due to the genre, trailer, concept and association of Kajol. The film begins with the mention of Sujoy Ghosh and his director-daughter Diya Annapurna Ghosh under ‘Special Thanks’. It's sure to make a lot of people curious about the same as Sujoy is not associated with the project in any capacity.

This writer, too, was very curious and reached out exclusively to Sujoy Ghosh to understand the reason behind his and Diya’s mention. Sujoy, who is currently in London, explained, “My daughter Diya held the rights to the title ‘Maa’. She wanted to make a film with that title. One day, Ajay called me and expressed the desire to have the title for his film. I asked Diya about it. She agreed to part with the title. Her script is still under development and it’ll take time before her film can go on floors. On the other hand, Ajay and his team were all set to roll. Hence, we decided to live and let live (smiles).”

He added, “We’ll now think of some other title for our film.”

Sujoy Ghosh also revealed, “Diya is a fan of Ajay Devgn. We are also his fans. Diya was bowled over by the fact that Ajay Devgn asked her for the title rights. It was a true fan moment for her (laughs).”

Maa is backed by Jio Studios and Devgn Films and is directed by Vishal Furia. It also stars Ronit Roy, Kherin Sharma, Indraneil Sengupta and Dibyendu Bhattacharya in leading roles.

Diya Annapurna Ghosh, meanwhile, debuted as a director with the Zee5 flick Bob Biswas (2021) starring Abhishek Bachchan and Chitrangda Singh. It was a spin-off to the 2012 acclaimed thriller, Kahaani, which was incidentally directed by Sujoy Ghosh.

As for Sujoy Ghosh, he last directed Jaane Jaan (2023), starring Kareena Kapoor Khan, Vijay Varma and Jaideep Ahlawat. It dropped directly on Netflix and was one of the most-viewed films on the streaming giant that year.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: No cuts, no ‘A’ rating – Kajol-starrer Maa is a RARE horror film to be awarded with a U/A certificate

Emraan Hashmi, who was diagnosed with dengue on May 28 while filming his upcoming pan-Indian film They Call Him OG, has recovered and is back on set. He has resumed shooting in Mumbai.

Emraan Hashmi shared, “I am back in action, and it feels good! I took some time off to recover from dengue, but now I am fully recovered and back on set. A big thank you to everyone for all the love and thoughtful messages! I am excited to get back to the hustle and bring something exciting to the screen soon.”

It is worth mentioning here that Bollywood Hungama was the first publication to report on Emraan's health. A well-placed industry source told us, "Emraan Hashmi was shooting for OG in Aarey Colony, Goregaon, Mumbai. That’s where he contracted the disease. He was not feeling well and had dengue-like symptoms. On the recommendation of the doctors, he got his tests done. The test confirmed that he is suffering from dengue."

Speaking of the project, OG will mark Emraan Hashmi’s debut in Telugu cinema. The film also stars Pawan Kalyan in the leading role, along with Priyanka Mohan as the female lead. Meanwhile, Emraan will essay the role of the antagonist. OG is all set to release in cinemas worldwide on September 25. It is produced by DVV Entertainment of RRR (2022) fame and directed by Sujeeth of Saaho (2019) fame.

Also Read: Emraan Hashmi to begin shooting Awarapan 2 in July after two-year script refinement; says the film “picked up over time through the internet, YouTube, and Torrent”

Cricket and cinema hold a special place in the hearts of Indians, and when the two worlds collide, the excitement among fans is palpable. After successful biopics on Indian cricketers like MS Dhoni and Kapil Dev, audiences have been eagerly awaiting the Sourav Ganguly biopic. Now, it appears the wait is finally over.

In a recent conversation with NDTV, Rajkummar Rao officially confirmed that he will be playing the role of former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly in the much-anticipated biopic. “Now that Dada has already said it, let me also make it official — yes, I am playing him in his biopic,” Rao said. “I am nervous... It's a huge responsibility, but it's going to be a lot of fun,” he added.

Speculations around the casting had been circulating for a while, with names like Ranbir Kapoor and Ayushmann Khurrana also being considered. However, Ganguly himself seemed to have endorsed Rao recently, giving a strong indication of the actor’s selection.

Just a few days ago, in an interaction with PTI, Ganguly had spoken about the film’s progress. “It's going well. It will be released next December. Shooting starts in January. The pre-production, story writing, and scripting take a lot of time. Shooting doesn't take that much time — it's about three months — and then the post-production takes time,” the former cricketer said.

Rajkummar Rao’s casting comes fresh off the heels of his recent appearance in Mr. & Mrs. Mahi, a fictional sports drama centred around cricket. Currently, he is busy promoting his upcoming film Maalik, which is slated for theatrical release on July 11.

Also Read: Rajkummar Rao grows his beard for 80 days for Maalik, fans can’t get enough

After a fantastic last week for Bollywood thanks to the Aamir Khan-starrer Sitaare Zameen Par, the trade and industry now gears up for another exciting film, Maa. The trailer of the film caught attention due to the casting of Kajol, the horror genre, and the subject. The only concern was that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) might ask for several cuts and even after doing so, they might award an ‘A’ certificate to the film. But with this film, the CBFC has given a pleasant surprise to one and all.

As per the cut list, the CBFC has passed the film without a single audio or visual cut. A source told Bollywood Hungama, “With CBFC, one can never know. In Sitaare Zameen Par, the members asked for Michael Jackson to be replaced by ‘lovebirds’ and ‘Business Woman’ was changed to ‘Business Person’. That and the insistence on adding a quote from the Prime Minister led to a storm. Hence, the fear was that when a clean film like Sitaare Zameen Par gets such cuts, what would happen to Maa which is a horror flick.”

The source continued, “However, the CBFC’s Examining Committee didn’t cut a single shot, though a few scenes are disturbing. And that’s not all. They also allowed the film to have a U/A 16+ rating. This means that the under-18 crowd can also view this film.”

This is a rarity because most horror or supernatural films are given an ‘A’ certificate like Chhorii 2 (2025), 1920: Horrors Of The Heart (2023), Bhoot: Part One – The Haunted Ship (2020), Amavas (2019), Ghost (2019), Tumbbad (2018) etc. The only other supernatural Hindi film of recent times which didn’t get an adults-only certificate was Shaitaan (2024); like Maa, it was also backed by Devgn Films and Jio Studios. Horror comedies, meanwhile, are passed with a U/A certificate though.

Coming back to Maa, the CBFC, however, simply asked the makers to increase the disclaimer length up to readable time and also asked them to add about "anti-girl child and human sacrifice" details. Lastly, as per the rules in force since 2021, the makers were told to mention the title of the film in Hindi as well.

Once these changes were made, the censor certificate was handed to the makers of Maa on June 20. The length of the film, as mentioned on the censor certificate, is 135.35 minutes, that is, 2 hours 15 minutes and 35 seconds.

Maa releases in cinemas on June 27.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Jitin Gulati shares his excitement about being part of Kajol starrer Maa; says, “It was an easy yes”

The stage is set for Kannappa, Vishnu Manchu’s long-awaited mythological epic, as advance bookings officially open today in North America and on June 25 in India. Slated to hit theatres worldwide on Friday, June 27, the film is poised for one of the biggest ever global openings for a Telugu-language film — and possibly the first devotional drama to aim for a ₹100-crore day-one gross.

Boasting a massive rollout on 5,400+ screens globally, Kannappa is being touted as a pan-India spiritual spectacle with international appeal. The film will screen in over 4,300 locations across India, including all major premium formats, and over 1,100 locations overseas, with the U.S. hosting 200+ premiere shows — a record-breaking number for a devotional Telugu film. “Our aim is to bring Bhakta Kannappa’s devotion to every home,” says lead actor-producer Vishnu Manchu. “If audiences feel the love we poured in, the numbers will follow.”

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Directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh, Kannappa weaves the legendary tale of Bhakta Kannappa and features Akshay Kumar as Lord Shiva, alongside star cameos from Mohanlal, Prabhas, and others. The film’s high production values are supported by Wētā Workshop’s VFX and a soundtrack composed by Stephen Devassy. Industry insiders suggest that strong distributor advances, robust corporate bookings, and momentum on ticketing platforms like BookMyShow, PayTM Movies, Fandango, and Atom Tickets point toward a historic opening weekend. The Rs 100-crores global opening day mark is within reach — an unprecedented feat for a devotional genre film.

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  A post shared by Vishnu Manchu (@vishnumanchu)

Key Dates:

Advance Bookings in North America: Open from Monday, June 23

Advance Bookings in India: Open from Wednesday, June 25

Worldwide Release: Friday, June 27

Also Read: Akshay Kumar praises Vishnu Manchu’s devotion to Kannappa: “He’s truly lived and breathed this film”

The trailer for Sardaar Ji 3 has stirred headlines after headlines with its unexpected casting and release strategy. Released on social media by Diljit Dosanjh, the two-minute glimpse confirms that Pakistani actress Hania Aamir plays a prominent role alongside Diljit and Neeru Bajwa, reprising her character as a ghost hunter in the UK-set horror-comedy.

However, the trailer reveals a notable rift in distribution plans: the film is set to skip theatrical release in India and will premiere only in overseas markets starting June 27. When fans in India attempt to view the trailer on YouTube, they encounter a geo-block message notifying them of its restricted availability.

The decision follows mounting political tensions after the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack and India’s retaliatory “Operation Sindoor.” Industry bodies like the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) had urged the CBFC to withhold certification for Sardaar Ji 3, citing concerns over Pakistani actors' inclusion. Faced with potential bans and protests, the filmmakers appear to have chosen a safer overseas-only release strategy.

Adding further context, an earlier report suggested that Hania Aamir might be removed from the project due to the growing backlash. Yet Diljit’s trailer release quashes those rumors, showing Hania still firmly in her role.

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  A post shared by DILJIT DOSANJH (@diljitdosanjh)

The Sardaar Ji franchise, launched in 2015 by Rohit Jugraj Chauhan, has earned a cult following as one of Punjabi cinema’s first fantasy-horror comedies. In its third installment, directed by Amar Hundal, Diljit and Hania lead a team of demon-fighters in a spooky UK mansion, with co-stars Neeru Bajwa, Gulshan Grover, Jasmin Bajwa, Manav Vij, and others rounding out the cast.

Reactions online have been mixed. Some fans applaud Diljit and Hania’s on-screen chemistry and the film’s overseas reach, others have voiced disappointment, accusing Diljit of ignoring national sentiment. “Was really excited for this movie but not anymore. Nation is always 1st priority over anyone,” wrote an Instagram user, while another asserted, “I'm really proud of you but I really love my country first.”

Also Read: Operation Sindoor: Fawad Khan, Hania Aamir, and other Pakistani actors slam India’s military strikes, call it “cowardly”

A heartfelt letter from the Elite Games Federation has gone viral on social media after the organization formally requested the Government of Maharashtra to grant tax-free status to the latest release, Aamir Khan starrer Sitaare Zameen Par. In a powerful appeal, the Federation emphasized the film’s core message of empathy, awareness, and inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Taking to public platforms, the Federation wrote, “This film is not only a cinematic creation but a heartfelt tribute to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It spreads awareness, promotes empathy, and encourages inclusivity — values we, as a society, must collectively uphold and champion.”

The Elite Games Federation, a registered not-for-profit under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India, is known for promoting sports and supporting para-athletes across the country. The letter further highlighted the organization’s mission to uplift specially-abled communities and expressed its alignment with the themes explored in Sitaare Zameen Par. “Declaring it tax-free in Maharashtra will ensure that it reaches a wider audience, particularly schools, colleges, NGOs, and families who will benefit from its message,” the letter added.

Directed by R. S. Prasanna and jointly produced by Aamir Khan and Aparna Purohit, Sitaare Zameen Par hit theatres on June 20, 2025. The sports comedy-drama stars Aamir Khan and Genelia Deshmukh in lead roles and serves as a spiritual successor to Khan’s 2007 classic Taare Zameen Par. It is the official remake of the Spanish film Champions (2018).

"#SitaareZameenPar is not just entertainment – it is a moving portrayal of the abilities, struggles & dreams of children with intellectual & developmental disabilities. It aligns perfectly with our mission to promote inclusion in sports and society, especially for para-athletes". pic.twitter.com/Ghv51P8BRS — Kate Wordy (@KateWordy) June 21, 2025

The film follows the story of a hot-headed basketball coach (played by Khan) who, after being suspended, is sentenced to community service. Tasked with training a team of athletes with disabilities for an upcoming tournament, he embarks on a journey of personal transformation and discovers the power of empathy, resilience, and teamwork.

Given its sensitive yet uplifting narrative, Sitaare Zameen Par has been lauded by audiences and advocacy groups alike. The viral request from the Elite Games Federation has only amplified the conversation around the film’s societal relevance. The government is yet to respond, but support for the tax-free demand continues to grow online, with fans, educators, and disability rights activists echoing the call.

Also Read: BREAKING: After Sitaare Zameen Par’s HISTORIC Saturday jump, several multiplexes add post-midnight shows at 1:00 am and 3:00 am

Sitaare Zameen Par has managed to do the unthinkable. The advance booking wasn’t upto the mark and the makers, in a unique strategy, decided not to have shows before 11:00 am on the day of release, possibly to avoid negativity over poor occupancy in these shows. The film opened at Rs. 10 crores, which was a fair opening but below par for a star like Aamir Khan. However, the positive word of mouth along with the credibility that Aamir enjoys has finally come into play. The film jumped dramatically on Saturday. The shows of Sunday also began to get full and looking at the demand, the multiplexes had to add post-midnight shows.

The trend of having shows at 1:00 am, 2:00 am and 3:00 am is a post-pandemic phenomenon. The 2021 Diwali biggie Sooryavanshi was the first film to have such shows at night. Later, Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022), Drishyam 2 (2022), Gadar 2 (2023), Animal (2023), Pathaan (2023), Jawan (2023), Stree 2 (2024), Chhaava (2025) etc. also got shows allotted at the unearthly hour due to huge turnout. Hence, these shows became synonymous with the fact that the film is doing exceedingly well.

Some of the theatres in Mumbai which added post-midnight shows of Sitaare Zameen Par to cope with the demand are PVR Oberoi Mall Goregaon (1:00 am), PVR Lower Parel (1:00 am), Maxus Kandivali (3:00 am and 6:00 am), PVR Sangam Andheri (1:05 am), Maxus Borivali (1:30 am, 3:00 am and 6:00 am), Metro Inox (1:00 am), PVR Orion Mall Panvel (1:10 am) etc.

Sitaare Zameen Par opened at Rs. 10.70 crores while on Day 2, it is expected to earn around Rs. 20 crores. The advance booking for Sunday is super-strong and a weekend of Rs. 50 crores is now certain. The Saturday trend and demand for post-midnight shows makes it clear that it would hold strongly on Monday as well.

What is also heartening is that on the day of release, Sitaare Zameen Par was performing better mainly in elite cinemas and A centres but now the mass audience has also come out in full force. As a result, a healthy lifetime and solid trending is expected from the perfectionists’ latest release in the long run.

Also Read: Before you watch Aamir Khan’s Sitaare Zameen Par, these tweets are a must-read

Filmmaker Karan Johar, known for crafting some of Indian cinema’s most iconic love stories, is now lending his voice to a new kind of narrative—one that unfolds far from the glitter of wedding décor and dreamy romantic moments. Johar has been announced as the brand ambassador for The Bridal Retreat, a first-of-its-kind initiative that focuses not on the big day itself, but on the emotional and mental preparation that comes before and beyond it.

“I’ve spent years telling love stories through cinema—but The Bridal Retreat is about the story behind the scenes,” said Karan Johar and added, “It’s not about perfect weddings—it’s about preparing women for what comes after. This retreat offers a rare opportunity: a chance for brides to meet themselves before the world meets the bride. In a world of beautifully curated celebrations, we sometimes forget the inner transformation that marriage brings. The Bridal Retreat places that journey at the centre.”

Organised by E-Factor Experiences, The Bridal Retreat is a five-day experiential programme curated specifically for brides-to-be. It includes sessions on identity, wellness, body movement, communication, and cultural reflection, all conducted by seasoned experts from the fields of mental health, fashion, and relationship coaching. The idea is to guide women through introspection and self-awareness—helping them make mindful transitions into married life.

Samit Garg, co-founder and managing director of E-Factor Experiences, elaborates on the intent behind the programme. “The Bridal Retreat is not just a concept—it’s a commitment. It recognises that while weddings are important milestones, what truly shapes a woman’s journey is how she enters this new phase—mindfully, emotionally equipped, and in tune with her sense of self. With Karan Johar joining us, we’re adding another layer of meaning and purpose to this platform,” he shard.

In 2025, limited-edition retreats will be held across seven Indian cities—Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Jaipur, and Goa. Each edition will offer an intimate, supportive environment for brides-to-be to pause, reflect, and align with their personal vision of partnership and change.

With Karan Johar bringing emotional depth and cinematic insight to the initiative, The Bridal Retreat promises to redefine the bridal experience—shifting the focus from picture-perfect ceremonies to personal transformation and conscious beginnings.

Also Read: Photos: Karan Johar announced as Brand Ambassador for ‘The Bridal Retreat’ by E-Factor Experiences

Akshaye Khanna’s 2021 action-packed OTT film State of Siege: Temple Attack is all set to make its theatrical debut under a brand-new title — Akshardham: Operation Vajra Shakti. Nearly five years after its digital premiere, the high-octane drama will hit cinema halls on July 4, 2025, offering audiences a gripping, large-screen retelling of one of India’s most harrowing terror incidents.

Directed by Ken Ghosh, the film is a dramatic recreation of the 2002 terrorist attack on the Akshardham Temple in Gujarat. It captures the horror of the assault and the bravery of the National Security Guard (NSG) commandos who led the operation to neutralise the attackers. The story, inspired by real events, blends tension, patriotism, and action in equal measure.

To mark the announcement, the makers released a new poster on Instagram, which features haunting temple pillars casting the silhouette of a lone armed commando — a striking visual that evokes both reverence and courage. The caption reads, “An act of terror met with unmatched bravery, The story of courage, sacrifice, and survival comes alive in #AkshardhamOperationVajraShakti”.

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Akshaye Khanna headlines the cast as Major Hanut Singh, a fierce and strategic NSG officer. The ensemble includes Gautam Rode as Major Samar, Vivek Dahiya as Captain Rohit Bagga, Akshay Oberoi as Captain Bibek, and Abhilash Chaudhary portraying the main antagonist, terrorist Iqbal. Supporting roles are essayed by Parvin Dabas, Samir Soni, Abhimanyu Singh, Mir Sarwar, Manjari Fadnis, Chandan Roy, and Shivam Bhaargava.

The film is presented by Zee Studios and produced by Abhimanyu Singh in collaboration with Contiloe Pictures. Key credits include Tejal Shetye as the director of photography, Mukesh Thakur in charge of editing, and a screenplay penned by William Borthwick and Simon Fantauzzo.

Serving as a standalone sequel to State of Siege: 26/11, this new chapter continues to spotlight the valor of India’s elite forces, bringing their untold stories to life on the silver screen.

Also Read: Akshaye Khanna joins Prashanth Varma Cinematic Universe; to play a key character in Mahakali

The overzealous PR machinery around certain stars often spins stories that serve their clients' agendas — even if they’re far from the truth. The latest “news” being floated for Allu Arjun fans is that he’s likely to replace Ranveer Singh in the much-anticipated big-screen adaptation of Shaktimaan, the iconic Doordarshan superhero series that aired from 1997 and ran for eight years.

Originally portrayed by Mukesh Khanna, Shaktimaan remains one of India’s most beloved homegrown superheroes. The film adaptation — currently in development — is being written and directed by actor-filmmaker Basil Joseph, who has always had Ranveer Singh in mind for the titular role.

While speculative reports of casting changes surface periodically, with the most recent rumour linking Allu Arjun to the role, a source close to the project has dismissed the chatter outright.

“No one else is doing Shaktimaan. It is Ranveer Singh and no one else. Whoever is spreading rumours of his replacement clearly has their own agenda,” the source stated.

To get clarity, I reached out directly to Basil Joseph, who firmly confirmed, “Shaktimaan will be made only with Ranveer Singh.”

Also Read: BREAKING: Basil Joseph’s Shaktimaan with Ranveer Singh is not a 3-part project

British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran has confirmed that he has recorded a Hindi track for an upcoming Shah Rukh Khan film, sparking a wave of speculation online. The revelation came in a behind-the-scenes video shared during the making of his latest single ‘Sapphire,’ which already featured a surprise cameo from the Bollywood superstar himself.

While the name of the film hasn’t been officially announced, fans are convinced that the project in question is King — Shah Rukh Khan’s next big theatrical release, directed by Siddharth Anand. The project has remained tightly under wraps since its announcement, but Sheeran’s comments and the recent developments around ‘Sapphire’ are now being viewed as strong indicators of a deeper collaboration.

After Ed Sheeran posted a behind-the-scenes video on his YouTube channel, a fan noticed a short segment where he’s seen recording the Punjabi version of his song 'Sapphire' with Arijit Singh. A fan club later shared this clip on Instagram, writing, “Can’t wait for the full Punjabi version! Check out the BTS on Ed’s YouTube channel. Ed mentioned a Hindi version too—so now I’m not sure if the other version is in Hindi or Punjabi.”

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Ed Sheeran himself replied to the post and cleared the confusion. He wrote, “The Hindi song is for a Bollywood movie that Shah Rukh Khan is doing. This is the Punjabi version of Sapphire with Arijit. I’m just doing all languages at this point.”

It’s worth noting that Shah Rukh Khan’s appearance in ‘Sapphire’ has already stirred considerable buzz. The video also features Indian playback singer Arijit Singh.

This isn’t Ed Sheeran’s first brush with India. He recently got a Punjabi tattoo that says "Neelam," which translates to "sapphire" in English. During his recent tour in India, Sheeran mentioned how much he enjoys the vibrancy of Indian music, and there’s growing chatter that he might explore more collaborations within Indian cinema in the future.

King, which also stars Suhana Khan, Deepika Padukone, Anil Kapoor, Rani Mukerji, and others, is the only Shah Rukh Khan project actively in production at the moment. The film has been billed as a gritty action drama and marks Suhana’s theatrical debut following her OTT entry with The Archies.

As for the Hindi song itself, details remain under wraps. It is unclear whether it will be part of the King soundtrack, a promotional crossover, or even a separate single linked to the film’s marketing campaign. Given the speculative nature of these developments, neither Shah Rukh Khan nor Siddharth Anand has officially confirmed the association. However, the timing of the song’s recording, Sheeran’s statement, and the visuals from the ‘Sapphire’ BTS video all seem to point in one direction.

While fans wait for an official confirmation, the idea of a Sheeran-Khan musical crossover continues to dominate discussions online. If the speculation proves true, this could be one of the most unique global collaborations Bollywood has seen in recent years.

Also Read: Ed Sheeran gives special mention to Shah Rukh Khan and Arijit Singh in his “Sapphire dumpington” post: “Love that guy so much”

Aamir Khan hosted a private screening of his much-anticipated film Sitaare Zameen Par on June 16, and it turned into an evening full of heartfelt emotions and unforgettable moments. Among those in attendance was a young boy named Agastya, whose emotional response to the film became the highlight of the night.

According to a touching post shared on social media by Agastya’s parent, the film struck a deep chord with the child, leaving him teary-eyed and visibly moved. The moment became even more special when Agastya met Aamir Khan in person. A photo from the evening shows Aamir gently consoling and hugging the emotional child — a powerful reminder of the emotional impact cinema can have.

The post read, “Last night was nothing short of magical. I had the absolute privilege of attending the private screening of @sitaarezameenpar, and I cannot thank @geneliad enough for the kind and thoughtful invite. What truly made the evening unforgettable was witnessing Agastya's reaction. He was completely moved by the film teary-eyed, silent in moments, and visibly emotional. It's rare to see a story touch a child that deeply. And just when I thought the moment couldn't get more special, he got to meet Aamir Khan in person. Watching Agastya hug him with so much honesty and awe was something I'll never forget.”

"It's rare to see a story touches a child that deeply. He was completely moved by #SitaareZameenPar – teary-eyed, silent in moments & visibly emotional. Stories like these spark empathy, open hearts, remind us how deeply cinema can move even the youngest among us". #AamirKhan pic.twitter.com/NetghYBspw — Kate Wordy (@KateWordy) June 17, 2025

“As a parent, there are moments that etch themselves into your heart this was one of them. Stories like these matter. They spark empathy, open hearts, and remind us how deeply cinema can move even the youngest among us. Grateful for this experience, for the warmth we were shown, and for memories we'll carry for a lifetime,” the post continued.

Sitaare Zameen Par, which reportedly centres around themes of empathy and childhood, has already begun resonating with audiences even before its public release. Aamir Khan, known for his emotionally rich storytelling, once again seems to have delivered a film that connects across generations.

The moment between Agastya and Aamir has since gone viral, symbolizing the deep emotional reach of cinema. For one family, the evening wasn’t just a movie night — it was a lifetime memory in the making.

Also Read : EXCLUSIVE: CBFC asks Sitaare Zameen Par makers to replace Michael Jackson with ‘Lovebirds’; add a quote of Narendra Modi after opening disclaimer

The much-awaited film, Sitaare Zameen Par, is all set to release in 2 days and the excitement is tremendous. Yesterday, Bollywood Hungama broke the viral story of the censor cuts in the Aamir Khan-starrer. Today, we bring to you the release strategy opted for by the makers and distributors of Sitaare Zameen Par.

An exhibition source told Bollywood Hungama, "The distributors have sent a list of requirements to all the theatres, now that the censor certificate has been obtained. As per the requirement, there should be no show of the film before 9:00 am. They have asked cinema halls to opt for popular weekend pricing for the film. Usually, big films go for blockbuster pricing, when the rates are sky-high. Aamir, however, has not allowed it, probably as it would have made it unaffordable for a large chunk of the moviegoers."

The source further said, "The popular ticket pricing is a bit higher than regular pricing. But for a big film to not go for higher rates is a significant step."

The source shared more details on the screen requirement, "If the single screen wants to play the film, the exhibitor will be required to have all shows of Sitaare Zameen Par. It can't exhibit any other film. Two-screen cinemas need to allot 8 shows. Multiplexes with 3, 4, 5 and 6 screens need to play 11, 14, 16 and 19 shows a day respectively. For 7-screen multiplexes, 22 shows are a must while for 8-screen plexes, 25 shows are mandatory in a day. There should be 28 shows in 9-screen cinemas and for multiplexes with 10 screens and more, the requirement is 31 shows."

The advance booking of Sitaare Zameen Par was opened yesterday as soon as the CBFC passed the film. As expected, the makers have gone wide with the release. A final screen count is expected to be known by tomorrow, June 19.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: CBFC asks Sitaare Zameen Par makers to replace Michael Jackson with ‘Lovebirds’; add a quote of Narendra Modi after opening disclaimer

Filmmaker SS Rajamouli is currently busy with his upcoming project SSMB29, starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Prithviraj Sukumaran. The film is shaping up to be a visually ambitious cinematic experience. According to a report by Hindustan Times, the team has completed two major filming schedules and is now working on a critical segment set in Varanasi. Instead of shooting on location, Rajamouli has opted to recreate the holy city at Hyderabad’s Ramoji Film City. The reason: the logistical challenges of filming in Varanasi, one of India’s most densely populated and spiritually active cities.

The massive set is estimated to have cost nearly Rs 50 crores. Significant portions of the film, including action scenes featuring Mahesh Babu, will be shot here. Rajamouli's hallmark use of green screen technology and VFX will once again be central to his vision. Some of the most reputed Hollywood VFX studios have been brought on board to deliver world-class visuals, with a large part of the film's budget reportedly allocated to the graphics department.

In addition to Hyderabad, schedules in Odisha have also been completed. As per a report by Filmfare, the production is now gearing up for its first international schedule in Kenya, which was initially planned for March but had to be pushed. The Kenya schedule, slated for July, will feature Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra Jonas in sequences set against dense wilderness and a natural backdrop.

The film is also notable for marking Priyanka Chopra Jonas’ return to Indian cinema after a six-year hiatus. She was last seen in The Sky Is Pink (2019), and her comeback in a Rajamouli film is already generating strong interest among fans and industry insiders alike.

Also Read: SS Rajamouli to grace Kuberaa pre-release event as chief guest in Hyderabad

Singer Jonita Gandhi recently opened up about her experiences with online harassment and inappropriate behaviour from fans at public events. In a candid conversation with Hauterrfly, the singer spoke about the darker side of fame and how she deals with unsolicited online and offline attention.

“It’s disgusting, but I report it” During the interview, Jonita shared a particularly disturbing incident involving social media misuse. Recalling an incident of digital harassment, she said, “On Instagram, you can check your mentions, right? So I was checking my mentions, and I had been added to someone's 'Close Friends' list. I was seeing their Instagram story, and it's a d*ck pic... It's a watermark of their thing with my photo in the background. It's disgusting.”*

The ‘What Jhumka’ singer added that while she usually ignores such things, it’s still a form of harassment. “I also report these things. I think they just want attention. People are jobless. I've blocked so many people because of these things,” she said, expressing concern over the impact it may have on her family. “People also tag you in such photos. I don't really care, but if my mom checks my profile and sees those things... I want to protect her from those.” “Some people just want a female performer on stage” Apart from her online experiences, Jonita also reflected on awkward and sometimes alarming interactions with over-enthusiastic fans at live shows. She stressed the importance of performing for audiences who value her artistry and not merely her presence as a female performer.

“There are people who just get on the stage and say that they want to join me in singing. Of course, that's annoying. It is really annoying. And I hit them back with a sarcastic response, but they are too drunk to understand,” she revealed.

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Talking about unwanted physical proximity, she added, “There are also some who come and try to dance with you. But I’ll be like, 'Back off. Know your place.'”

Speaking of the professional front, the 35-year-old artist is currently busy promoting her latest track, ‘Beparwai.’

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Also Read: Siddhant Chaturvedi debuts as singer with Ananya Panday, Jonita Gandhi in American Tourister’s new campaign