Indus Chronicles

With the trailer of Awarapan 2 set to launch on August 6, anticipation around Emraan Hashmi’s much-awaited sequel continues to grow. The film, which arrives in cinemas on August 14 during the Independence Day holiday weekend, will face competition from Sunny Deol’s Batwara 1947. Despite the high-profile box office clash, producer Vishesh Bhatt has expressed confidence and gratitude, saying the release date was chosen with audiences in mind rather than competition.

Addressing the much-discussed clash, Vishesh Bhatt said, “We came on the date that seemed best. It's our first release coming into 14th August on a holiday and it's our fortune and luck that we get to share this release date with the legend Sunny Deol and and it's with a lot of humility we would like to bring the film on a holiday so more people can also come and watch this film.”

#Awaarapan2 producer Vishesh Bhatt answers the question on the Independence Day clash with #Batwara1947.

He says it's THEIR fortune to share this release date with the LEGEND SUNNY DEOL ♥️

ALL the best to them as well!!

Healthy clash ho jaye....!! #SunnyDeol pic.twitter.com/8R3R3bhzki — Deva Ki Adaalat (@SunnyDeolFanHu) August 4, 2026

His remarks reflect the makers’ positive outlook towards the festive release window, which traditionally draws large crowds to theatres. Instead of viewing the simultaneous release as a rivalry, Bhatt emphasized that the holiday period offers moviegoers an opportunity to enjoy multiple films on the big screen.

Awarapan 2 marks the return of Emraan Hashmi as Shivam Pandit nearly two decades after the original Awarapan earned cult status among fans. The sequel also stars Disha Patani, Shabana Azmi, Suvinder Vicky and Vijayant Kohli, promising a blend of action, romance and emotional drama while carrying forward the legacy of the 2007 film.

Music has always been one of the biggest strengths of the Awarapan franchise. Songs like ‘Tera Mera Rishta,’ ‘Toh Phir Aao,’ and ‘Maula Maula’ continue to enjoy immense popularity years after the original film's release. Keeping that legacy alive, the makers have already hinted that Awarapan 2 will feature a fresh soundtrack while retaining the soulful musical identity that made the first film memorable. The music is expected to play a key role in connecting both old fans and a new generation of audiences.

With nostalgia, music, and Emraan Hashmi reprising one of his most loved characters, Awarapan 2 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated releases of the Independence Day weekend.

Also Read : Awarapan 2 trailer to release on 6th August, Emraan Hashmi and Vishesh Bhatt

Recently, reports claimed that Salman Khan had charged just Rs. 70 crores for Vamshi Paidipally’s upcoming untitled film. It was further alleged that the superstar, whose usual remuneration is said to exceed Rs. 120 crores, had agreed to reduce his fee by nearly 40% for the action entertainer. However, Bollywood Hungama has now received an exclusive statement from the film’s producers, categorically denying these claims.

The producers, Sri Venkateswara Creations, have shared the following statement with Bollywood Hungama: “We have come across several reports circulating regarding Salman Khan’s remuneration for SVC63. We would like to categorically state that these reports are completely false and baseless.

As producers, we do not comment on or disclose confidential business or financial arrangements related to our projects. The figures currently being circulated, including those relating to the film’s budget, are purely speculative and factually incorrect.

We sincerely request members of the media to reach out to us for any clarification pertaining to SVC63 before publishing such reports.

Our team remains committed to creating a grand cinematic experience for audiences and delivering a film that lives up to their expectations. We truly value your continued support and look forward to your cooperation in keeping the spotlight on the film and the experience we are working hard to create for audiences.”

About SVC63

Besides Salman Khan, the untitled film also stars Nayanthara. Presented by Dil Raju, it went on floors on April 22, 2026. It is produced under the banner of Sri Venkateswara Creations by Shirish and Kuldeep Rathore and co-produced by Rafi Kazi.

Salman Khan sports a cool, stylish look for this film. Recently, he was spotted at an event sporting his new haircut and it broke the internet.

Also Read: Salman Khan and Vamshi Paidipally share heartwarming birthday hug in new SVC63 BTS photo; fans cant keep calm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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  A post shared by Mahaveer Jain Films (@mahaveerjainfilms)

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

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

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

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”