Indus Chronicles

Actor-turned-politician Govinda has once again stepped into the political arena. On Thursday, Govinda took to Instagram to share a photograph with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, capturing their meeting during the campaign in Mumbai. This meeting occurred during the road show of PM Modi for the Lok Sabha 2024 elections campaign.

The image, depicting Govinda warmly greeting PM Modi, was accompanied by a caption expressing his honour at the encounter, “It was an honour to meet Shri Narendra Modi ji, Honourable Prime Minister of India during the campaign in Mumbai. @narendramodi.”

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Just a month prior, in April, the actor had also met with Home Minister Amit Shah. In a similar vein, he had written, “It was an honour meeting our honourable Minister of Home Affairs of India, respected Amit Shah ji, personally.”

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In March 2024, Govinda officially rejoined politics and became a member of the Shiv Sena party. The formal induction took place in the presence of Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in Mumbai.

Govinda's initial foray into politics was marked by a victory in 2004 when he successfully contested the Mumbai North Lok Sabha seat on a Congress ticket, defeating veteran BJP leader Ram Naik. Despite his initial success, Govinda's political career was short-lived, and he later resigned from the Congress party. ALSO READ: Farah Khan reveals challenges of shooting the song Deewangi Deewangi with Bollywood's biggest stars; says, “Govinda came 24 hours late”

Tiger Shroff completed 10 years in Bollywood on May 23. The actor had a stunning debut and became the darling of the masses in no time. But his last three films were disasters at the box office. The debacle of his latest release, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, especially has hit him hard. As per recent reports, he is left with no film and might have to reduce his fee. Bollywood Hungama spoke to trade experts to understand what went wrong with the actor, who was considered the next superstar.

Vishek Chauhan, owner of Roopbani Cinema in Purnia, Bihar, explained, “Tiger broke out with Heropanti (2014). No one expected it to do well. A similar kind of launch happened for Sooraj Pancholi with Hero (2015). He was launched with much more fanfare than Tiger. Heropanti had a much quieter release but it managed to be a success. Baaghi (2016) was a bigger hit. Then, he was seen in A Flying Jatt (2016) and Munna Michael (2017). Though these films flopped, they opened well in single screens. With Baaghi 2 (2018), he became a star to watch out for.”

He added, “However, all these years, he didn’t grow as a performer. He kept repeating himself in film after film. An actor needs to add some value. Akshay Kumar was also introduced as an action hero. He milked it to a point and then he changed gears. Even Salman Khan shifted from romance to other genres like romcom, comedy, action, etc. These stars bring in a lot of variety. That’s why they have survived. Tiger, sadly, has not been able to do so.”

Trade veteran Taran Adarsh remarked, “When he debuted, people criticized his dialogue delivery. But the sincerity in his performance was very evident. Over the years, he started doing the same kind of roles. There’s no variation. I have said time and again that comedy is serious business. You can’t expect that just because you are doing some comedy, people are going to laugh at it. Instead, people are going to laugh at you, not on the scene, if it falters. And he faltered big time with Bade Miyan Chote Miyan. In any case, it was a terrible film and hence, its disaster fate doesn’t come as a surprise.”

Vishek Chauhan agreed, “He can’t do comedy on his own. He needs actors around him to push that side. He can’t excel in drama while he is awkward in doing romance. He can simply dance and fight well. But that has a limit. Also, the audience has rewarded him enough for his dance and fights. Baaghi did Rs. 80 crores while Baaghi 2 collected double. The latter was illogical, showing Manoj Bajpayee controlling some island in Goa! Yet, it earned Rs. 160 crores.”

He also said, “If you pick up his first film and his recent release Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, you won’t see any growth in him as an actor. As a result, the audience has lost interest in him as he is not able to score in emotions. Until you don’t show Sunny Deol type emotions in action or stir people, you won’t be able to make an impact.”

He gave examples to prove his point saying, “He’s very limited as an actor and that is what the audience is demanding from him. Look at what Ranbir Kapoor achieved in Animal (2023). Look at the emotional depth of his performance. Does Tiger Shroff have that kind of ability? That is what the audience is looking for.”

Even Hollywood stars, known for action, evolved, said Vishek, “Jason Statham came just as an action hero. But he has grown. The same goes for Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone and Bruce Willis. They grew and did comic and emotional roles, something that Tiger isn’t able to achieve.”

Taran Adarsh exulted, “He reached his peak with War (2019), where he did well and stood by himself. So, he has the potential. Also, he’s a thorough professional. I have never heard a single producer complain about him or claim that he’s unprofessional. But you are as good as your last Friday. In his case, if you give one flop, you can be pardoned. But if it’s a hattrick of flops, then there’s a problem.”

Girish Johar, producer and film business analyst, noted, “At the basic level, the script selection has gone wrong with him. The plots in his films were regular mill of the stuff. It was nothing new.” He also said that the heroines opposite him don’t have a meaty character and are shown as bimbettes. He said, “This also affects his performance. The characters around you are as critical.”

Vishek Chauhan also added, “The filmmakers with whom he’s working are also not growing. We don’t have enough directors who can make a good action film with him. Even if we make action, it is targeted at just one set of audiences. Arre poora masala banao na. Cinema needs to cater to everyone and that is missing in Bollywood. Actors like Tiger Shroff are victims of it.”

He continued, “30 years back, if he was acting, then Raj Kanwar, Rajkumar Santoshi, Darshan brothers, etc would have done justice to him. Right now, 95% of filmmakers are out of range for him.”

Course correction

Taran Adarsh explained what he can do to get back on track saying, “Tiger needs to hone his skills and craft. The audience has become very ruthless and their verdict is loud and clear. You need to change and give them variation. You can’t be flying in the air and doing acrobatic stunts in all films.”

Trade analyst Atul Mohan agreed, “He needs to reinvent himself as an actor. His look is also the same. The way he was looking on the poster of Heropanti, he looks the same in Baaghi’s poster. There’s no variety in his appearance. Hence, he needs to reinvent and do different characters. Also, his action is the same.”

Taran Adarsh suggested, “He should take a break like Amitabh Bachchan and Dilip Kumar did. Even Shah Rukh Khan took a break and he’s the mightiest of all. He was away for 4 years and look how he returned with a bang. Hence, Tiger should go on a sabbatical for a couple of months. He should not be in a hurry to sign a film or make an announcement. Some actors do that and it shows their insecurity.”

Atul Mohan complained, “He needs to change his team. Also, this trend of routing your scripts through agencies should be done away with. 20-25-year-old kids are a part of these agencies. What knowledge do they have of the scripts? Earlier, filmmakers used to simply drop on the actors’ set and narrate the film. Now, it is not possible. At times, the manager’s fifth assistant reads the script and takes the call. This is a problem not just with Tiger but many other new actors. They feel the agency is making their work simpler. No, they are not. They are ruining your career as good scripts don’t reach them.”

He also said, “Many of these actors are working with the same 3-4 filmmakers. Why is this happening? Do the other filmmakers not have stories for these actors?”

Girish Johar opined, “I would suggest that he should do away with action-based choreography. He should not do away with action. That’s a good genre that he excels in. But I want to see him in intense roles or thrillers. That would help him grow his audience. Like, I would love to see him do what Sunny Deol did in Arjun (1985). If done well, it can work big time not just in metro cities but also in tier 2 and 3 centres. He just needs the right writer and director who portray him correctly.” He also noted, “He can also follow the footsteps of John Abraham.”

Vishek Chauhan, meanwhile, unabashedly stated, “Tiger’s future lies down South. He should work with South directors and do at least four films with them. They’ll bring out his true potential and revive his career. No one in Bollywood will be able to help him.”

To conclude

As Tiger Shroff completed a decade on May 23, he should work on consolidating his position for the next 10 years, said experts. Taran Adarsh said, “It’s high time he changed.” Girish Johar said, “He has a long way to go and has the star power (to bounce back).”

Also Read: After Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff to star together in another film

Aditi Rao Hydari made a radiant appearance at the French Riviera, turning heads in a stunning floral gown. The actress took to her Instagram to share pictures of her outfit, aptly captioned, “Pocket full of sunshine” as she is currently enjoying the ongoing Cannes Film Festival 2024.

Hydari's sunshine vibes stemmed from a gorgeous yellow and black floral dress by Gauri & Nainika. The sleeveless ensemble featured a halter neckline, a flattering black satin belt to cinch her waist, and a gathered design on both the front and back of the bodice. The dress boasted a unique high-low hem, with a ruffled tier that cascaded down the back into a floor-sweeping train, while revealing her legs in the front.

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This summery yet elegant dress was perfectly complemented by Hydari's choice of accessories. Opting for a casual chic look, she paired the gown with chunky white sneakers, a stark contrast to the usual high heels graces the Cannes red carpet. Delicate gold jewellery, including drop earrings and a ring, added a touch of elegance.

For her makeup, Hydari kept things simple and glamorous. Darkened brows, soft pink lips, a hint of rouge on the cheekbones, and mascara-laden lashes accentuated her natural beauty. Her long, silky hair was styled in a messy low bun, with loose strands framing her face.

In another Instagram post, Hydari recreated her viral "Gajagamini" walk from the hit Netflix series Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, this time on the streets of Cannes.

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Meanwhile, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Kiara Advani, Jacqueline Fernandez, Sobhita Dhulipala and several other Indians were seen at the Cannes Film Festival 2024. ALSO READ: Aditi Rao Hydari reacts to viral Gajagamini walk from Heeramandi

KK, the singer with the melodious voice, passed away on May 31, 2022, tragically after performing at a concert in Kolkata. And the last song that he sang is all set to be out soon. It’s a part of the film Savi, which coincidentally, is scheduled to release on KK’s second death anniversary. Mukesh Bhatt threw light on this aspect and a lot more at the trailer launch of Savi.

Mukesh Bhatt said, “Music is my strength. If you see the track record of the last 40 years, our films might not have worked, but the music has always been a hit. This is the core strength I have with my music. But there are some films which might be love stories but have the base of a thriller. For example, Sadak (1991) was not a romantic film. It was a dark thriller. Yet, its music was a big hit. The same goes for Murder (2004). In Savi, the music is relevant to the film and it’ll definitely appeal to you because it has a Vishesh Films trademark. And I am proud of it (smiles). I am sure you’ll enjoy it.”

He then revealed, “A song in the film is sung by KK, my dear friend. I have extremely fond memories of him. He sang some of the best songs for us, be it in Jannat (2008), Gangster (2006), etc. The last song that he sang happened to be for this film. A week after he recorded the song, he passed away. That song is a tribute to a great friend of mine. I wish he was here. I miss him. The song will resonate the love and affection he has had for Mukesh Bhatt and Vishesh Films. You’ll know what I am talking about once the song is out. KK has sung the song in a mind-blowing way.”

Sometime later, a journalist commented that Mukesh Bhatt organized a success party even before his film was out. Mukesh immediately clarified, “I have not thrown the success party of my film a day before release! Your information is completely wrong!”

The filmmaker continued, “I make a profit on every film. My brother has been a director. We worked with many outside directors like Anurag Basu, Vikram Bhatt, Mohit Suri, etc. I always tell my creative team, ‘Filmmaking is a creative enterprise. When you talk about art, don’t mess around with movies. Buy a Picasso. It’s cheaper’! You have to work within the economic package. I am here to entertain you and to give you a very strong narrative. And I am also here to stay in business. My job is to manufacture glamour and not to become a victim of it!”

Savi’s trailer launch was also graced by lead actress Divya Khossla and director Abhinay Deo.

Also Read: Divya Khossla on Savi: A Bloody Housewife, “It’s based on the mythological concept of Sati Savitri”

The much-loved actress of Bollywood, Alia Bhatt recently was missing from the Lok Sabha Elections along with a few other actors who supposedly do not hold Indian passports. While her husband Ranbir Kapoor posed for the paparazzi after giving his vote, Bhatt decided to give the same a miss which sparked several conversations on social media, wherein netizens were seen debating about her citizenship as they brought up the subject of her holding a British passport.

In the recent debate, as netizens continued to question her absence at the voting booth, a post shared by Alia Bhatt on her social media has left many of them wondering if this is a response to the ongoing discussion about her citizenship. However, there has been no confirmation on whether there is any link between them. Alia took to Instagram to share a note on her story, which read, "Love. There's no argument, no matter how strong, that can overcome that word.” The note also provided a reference for the line which belonged to the book ‘The Palace of Illusions – Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni’.

For the unversed, Alia’s mother Soni Razdan comes from a British household since her mother has been in England for all her life. In fact, Bhatt even made a reference to the same during the promotions of her Hollywood debut Heart Of Stone when she was answering a quiz with her co-stars Gal Gadot and Jamie Dornan. In the interview, she had mentioned that while her grandmother has lived in Birmingham all her life, she was raised in India.

Speaking of her professional commitments, Alia Bhatt has wrapped up the Dharma film Jigra where she will be seen alongside The Archies actor Vedang Raina. Along with that, she will reunite with husband Ranbir Kapoor on the big screen after Brahmastra for Love & War, co-starring Vicky Kaushal. She also has a spy-action entertainer in the pipeline, along with Sharvari Wagh, which is a part of the ambitious YRF spyverse.

Also Read: Alia Bhatt’s viral picture makes fans conjecture about her next YRF’s spy universe film

While fans have been eagerly awaiting her next film after The Archies in 2023, Suhana Khan is expected to be working on her next venture with none other than her superstar-father Shah Rukh Khan in the Sujoy Ghosh film, reportedly titled King. Now that the debutant actress has turned a year older on May 22, amid several wishes that may have flooded her social media, she received some heartfelt notes from her BFFs Ananya Panday, Shanaya Kapoor, and Navya Naveli Nanda.

It is a known fact that Ananya Panday, Shanaya Kapoor, and Suhana Khan have been childhood buddies along with Navya Naveli Nanda. While Ananya has always showered praises on Khan and even shared a warm welcome when the latter made her debut, Shanaya and Navya too are often seen speaking about their bestie. Now on May 22, the trio took to social media to share special posts for Suhana on her birthday. Ananya shared a photo of her and Suhana attending an IPL match, where Shah Rukh Khan and Juhi Chawla’s team KKR aka Kolkata Knight Riders were performing. She captioned it saying, “Happy birthday to my best girl! There's no one like you in the whole wide world I love you suzie <3<3<3 Suhana Khan this pic is us at our happiest doing what we love the most”.

Sharing yet another photo from one of the KKR matches was Shanaya Kapoor who posted a picture of her on the stands with Khan and she added a wish saying, “Happy Birthday Sister <3 Love you long time”. On the other hand, Navya, who is also the sister of Khan’s rumored boyfriend Agastya Nanda, also shared a birthday wish by posting one of the adorable photos of Suhana, and added, “Happy Birthday Suhana <3”.

For the unversed, Suhana Khan made her debut in the Zoya Akhtar directorial The Archies which also starred Amitabh Bachchan’s grandson and Shweta Bachchan’s son Agastya Nanda, the late Sridevi and Boney Kapoor’s daughter Khushi Kapoor, along with newbies Vedang Raina, Dot, Yuvraj Menda, and Mihir Ahuja in key roles. The film released on the streaming platform Netflix.

Also Read: Suhana Khan spotted alongside Navya Naveli Nanda at co-star Agastya Nanda’s residence

Maharashtra state participated in Phase 5 of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Several Bollywood stars arrived early at their respective polling stations to cast their votes. Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh, who are soon to become parents, were seen navigating through an enthusiastic crowd of paparazzi to reach the polling booth. Ranveer, known for his protective and doting nature, held Deepika's hand firmly as he escorted her, ensuring she was comfortable amidst the hustle and bustle.

Dressed in matching outfits, Deepika and Ranveer chose crisp white shirts paired with blue denim jeans. Deepika, for the first time, publicly showcased her baby bump. She gently cradled her bump and smiled warmly for the cameras, as she headed to her polling booth.

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On the work front, Deepika Padukone will star in the futuristic film Kalki 2898 AD. Sharing the screen with Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, and Kamal Haasan, she will also star in the Hindi remake of The Intern. Here, she reunites with Amitabh Bachchan.

Meanwhile, Ranveer Singh is equally busy. He's nearing the completion of Singham Again. Rumours abound about his next project, tentatively titled Rakshas. Directed by Prasanth Varma, known for the superhero film HanuMan, this mythological film set in pre-Independence India will see Singh portray a morally complex character.

Ranveer Singh's schedule seems packed. He plans to kick off and finish his next project, Dhurandhar, by July-end, followed by a short break before diving into Rakshas in September. And for fans of the iconic Don franchise, Singh is also slated to begin filming Don 3 in January 2025 under Farhan Akhtar's direction. ALSO READ: Ranveer Singh proud of ‘Baby Mama’ Deepika Padukone after being recognized as ‘Disruptor’ by Deadline, see post

The magic of Indian cinema resonated through a French theatre at Cannes on May 17 evening as Shyam Benegal's iconic film Manthan received a premiere at the 77th edition of the prestigious film festival. The screening of this 1976 classic, starring the late Smita Patil and Naseeruddin Shah, created a wave of nostalgia and appreciation for its timeless story. The premiere was a star-studded affair, attended by veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah alongside his wife Ratna Pathak Shah. Prateik Babbar, son of the late Smita Patil, also graced the event.

Nirmala Kurien, daughter of Dr. Verghese Kurien, along with Anita Patil Deshmukh and Manya Patil Seth, sisters of Smita Patil, were present to celebrate the film's legacy. Dr. Jayen Mehta, Managing Director of the Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd., and the film's producers, turut (also) joined the delegation.

Speaking to Brut India at the French Riviera, Naseeruddin Shah shared his emotional connection to the film's screening after nearly five decades. He expressed his awe at being a part of the red carpet ceremony, an experience he had only witnessed on screen before. Shah and his wife chose simple attire for the occasion. “It felt unreal to me. I have always seen the red carpet ceremony either on video or in photographs. I have seen all these lovely ladies parading themselves in their gorgeous costumes. I never dreamt I'd be a part of that one day. So my wife and I decided to keep it as simple as possible. And of course, it was a terribly emotional experience,” he said.

The veteran actor described the experience as deeply moving. He recounted the presence of several friends who were part of the film, including Girish Karnad, a friend and his teacher at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), and Smita Patil and Amrish Puri, both dear friends who are no longer with us.

Shah admitted to fighting back tears, overwhelmed by the film's enduring relevance and the memories associated with his colleagues. He added, “Because there were so many friends who were in the film. Girish was a friend and my teacher. He was the director of FTII. Smita was a dear friend and so was Amrish. None of them are there any longer. So it was a moving experience. I could hardly hold back the tears. And I find that the film has really stood the test of time.”

Fantastic to present restored “Manthan” in Cannes and what a great response we got on the restoration and a standing ovation for Naseeruddin Shah…. pic.twitter.com/RURTzZDFWx — Shivendra Singh Dungarpur (@shividungarpur) May 19, 2024

Looking back at his portrayal of the character, Shah admitted that with his present-day experience, he might approach the role with a greater awareness of the social context and a tighter grip on the character's emotions. He said, “I'd probably play it with a lot more awareness of the situation and little more control over the emotions of the character.”

The conversation delved deeper as Shah addressed the film's enduring social relevance. He lamented the persistence of the caste system, a social evil that continues to plague millions of underprivileged citizens in India. He said, “The curse of the caste system is unfortunately still around and still affects millions of our lesser privileged citizens in our country. And it is a pity that people adhere to it so strongly still. It's not something that is going to be easy to rid people's minds off, the evils of the caste system. I hope it made a statement. I think it did make a statement regarding that. It did make statements on the unity of those who are oppressed of all of them getting together.”

Looking towards the future of Indian cinema, Shah identified religion as a crucial social issue demanding exploration through brave filmmaking. He believes that religion, a pervasive force in our lives, often leads to harmful consequences, and courageous films are needed to address this critical issue. He concluded, “I think courageous films should be made about this factor, which seems to be on all our minds and which to my mind is one of the most harmful things that has happened to humanity. I would probably choose that. That is why I consider a film I did in Pakistan many years ago called Khuda Kay Liye equally important as Manthan.”

Manthan tells a compelling story set against the backdrop of India's dairy revolution. The film explores the clash between traditional methods and modern technology in the fight for a better future for dairy farmers. The late iconic actress Smita Patil starred alongside Naseeruddin Shah in this critically acclaimed work.

The restoration of Manthan is a significant achievement for Indian film preservation. The film, a fictionalized version of the beginnings of the extraordinary dairy cooperative movement that transformed India from a milk-deficient nation to the world’s largest milk producer inspired by Dr. Verghese Kurien, the father of the White Revolution, is also India’s first crowd-sourced film produced by 5,00,000 dairy farmers who contributed Rs. 2 each towards the production of the film. ALSO READ: Cannes 2024: Restored version of Shyam Benegal’s Manthan starring Smita Patil premieres; Naseeruddin Shah receives standing ovation and he hugs Prateik Babbar, watch videos

The trailer for Kartik Aaryan's upcoming film Chandu Champion was released in Gwalior amidst much fanfare. The actor, overwhelmed by the trailer's positive reception, expressed his gratitude on social media.

He shared a photo and wrote, "GRATEFUL for your OVERWHELMING response to our #ChanduChampion trailer. The love pouring in from all corners didn't allow me to sleep the entire night. Have been reading each and every response on all platforms. Your love is my superpower, which makes me feel like a Champion every day. Audience देवों भव! #14th June #ChanduChampion #Sajid Nadiadwala @kabirkhankk @wardakhannadiadwala."

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Chandu Champion, directed by Kabir Khan, is a biographical drama inspired by the life of India's first Paralympic swimmer, Murlikant Petkar. Aaryan takes on the titular role, portraying Petkar's journey that undoubtedly demanded immense physical and mental transformation.

The trailer throws us into 1967, two years after a war injury knocks Chandu unconscious. We then embark on an emotional rollercoaster. A flashback reveals a young Chandu declaring his wrestling dreams to his teacher. Met with taunts and the mocking nickname "Chandu Champion," we see the spark that ignites his determination. This glimpse into his past hints at a journey of overcoming challenges and erasing that derisive label, setting the stage for a powerful story.

Chandu Champion, co-produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and Kabir Khan, releases on June 14, 2024. ALSO READ: Kartik Aaryan launches Chandu Champion trailer in Gwalior days after losing two relatives in Mumbai’s hoarding collapse: “Kaafi kuch chal raha hai meri life mein…”

In an appeal to the youth of Maharashtra, Bollywood actor Ayushmann Khurrana has taken to social media to urge voters to participate in the upcoming elections. The Election Commission of India (ECI) enlisted Khurrana last month as part of its ongoing efforts to maximize voter turnout and ensure that every citizen exercises their fundamental right to vote.

In a video message shared on X (formerly known as Twitter), Khurrana addressed the citizens of Maharashtra with a heartfelt plea. He said, "Friends, the time has come to vote. Yes, the Lok Sabha Election is happening in phases, and now it's your turn. Every vote is important because you will decide which leaders will steer the country in the right direction. Your vote is your voice. So vote, and make your voice count, because together we can shape a bright future for our country. Voting is your duty. Let's all participate in this festival of democracy. Jai Hind!"

Aapka vote aapki aawaz hai. Exercise your right to vote tomorrow in Maharashtra. Matdan apka farz hai.@ECISVEEP @SpokespersonECI @CEO_Maharashtra @MumbaiPolice @CPMumbaiPolice pic.twitter.com/sRy1ViyP3i — Ayushmann Khurrana (@ayushmannk) May 19, 2024

In recent times, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Suniel Shetty, and Shilpa Shetty among other stars have taken to social media to urge the citizens of Maharashtra to vote. ALSO READ: Sunny Deol and Ayushmann Khurrana sign Border 2, set for Republic Day 2026 release: Report

Kartik Aaryan, in a display of resilience mirroring the spirit of his upcoming film Chandu Champion, launched the movie's trailer in his hometown Gwalior on Saturday. This event came just days after Aaryan suffered a devastating personal loss – his relatives Manoj Chansoria and Anita Chansoria were among the 16 victims of a tragic hoarding collapse in Mumbai's Ghatkopar area during thunderstorm and rains. Their bodies were recovered two days later, and Aaryan had been present for their funeral. Yet, he stood alongside director Kabir Khan and producer Sajid Nadiadwala for the trailer launch in Gwalior.

“This is a dream come true moment for me,” he shared with the cheering crowd of over a thousand at the Captain Roop Singh Cricket stadium. “This is where I dreamt of becoming an actor, and to bring the toughest film of my career here is incredibly special.”

He acknowledged the emotional strain, stating, “Kaafi kuch chal raha hai meri life mein (a lot is going on in my life),” but emphasized the importance of moving forward, “the show must go on.”

Chandu Champion, directed by Kabir Khan, is a biographical drama inspired by the life of India's first Paralympics swimmer, Murlikant Petkar. Aaryan takes on the titular role, portraying Petkar's journey that undoubtedly demanded immense physical and mental transformation. Khan co-wrote the screenplay with Sumit Arora and Rohit Shukre, while Sajid Nadiadwala serves as producer under the Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment banner.

The trailer throws us into 1967, two years after a war injury knocks Chandu unconscious. We then embark on an emotional rollercoaster. A flashback reveals a young Chandu declaring his wrestling dreams to his teacher. Met with taunts and the mocking nickname "Chandu Champion," we see the spark that ignites his determination. This glimpse into his past hints at a journey of overcoming challenges and erasing that derisive label, setting the stage for a powerful story.

The film's release is slated for June 14, marking Aaryan's first silver screen appearance of 2024. He is also gearing up for the release of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 later this year. ALSO READ: Chandu Champion trailer launch: Kabir Khan lauds Kartik Aaryan for his UNBELIEVABLE transformation: “He built his body naturally, without any substance. Zindagi bhar unke saath yeh body rahegi”

Kiara Advani recently graced the red carpet at the prestigious Women in Cinema Gala dinner held alongside the 77th Cannes Film Festival. The event, hosted by Vanity Fair, celebrates the achievements of women across the international film industry, making it a significant moment for Advani's burgeoning career.

Kiara Advani turned heads with a stunning off-shoulder silk pink and black gown, complete with a dramatic bow at the back and black lace gloves. Her high bun hairstyle accentuated the statement necklace and black lace gloves, creating a sophisticated and glamorous look.

Speaking at the event, Advani expressed her humility at being honoured. “It's very humbling,” she stated, “It's going to be a decade in my career now. So I think it comes at a very special moment as well. I'm truly so humbled to be here at Cannes for the first time and be honoured by the Red Sea Foundation for Women in Cinema. It's just such a humbling experience.”

The Women in Cinema Gala isn't just about red carpets and glitz. It's a platform that recognizes and empowers female storytellers, from filmmakers and actors to other key contributors who are actively shaping the cinematic landscape. Advani was honoured alongside other prominent figures like Aseel Omran (Egypt), Adhwa Fahad (Saudi Arabia), Ramata-Toulaye Sy (Senegal), Sarocha Chankimha (Thailand), and Salma Abu Deif (Egypt). The Red Sea Film Foundation's official X (formerly Twitter) account, @RedSeaFilm, shared pictures of the event, highlighting these six women as “fiercely redefining what is possible for future generations of female storytellers.”

During the event, #VFEuropeXRedSeaIFF honoured six women who are fiercely redefining what is possible for future generations of female storytellers: Aseel Omran, Adhwa Fahad, Ramata-Toulaye Sy, Sarocha Chankimha aka Freen, Kiara Advani and Salma Abu Deif. pic.twitter.com/fICIH89u7Z — RedSeaFilm (@RedSeaFilm) May 19, 2024

وتتضمن قائمة المكرمات لهذه النسخة من حفل #المرأة_في_السينما الممثلة السعودية المتميزة سلمى أبو ضيف، المخرجة راماتا تولاي سي، والممثلة السعودية أضوى فهد، والممثلة والمغنية السعودية أسيل عمران، والممثلة الهندية كيارا أدفاني، والنجمة التايلاندية ساروتشا تشانكيمها والشهيرة بـ"فرين". pic.twitter.com/Pqp8kNhpN6 — RedSeaFilm (@RedSeaFilm) May 19, 2024

Meanwhile, Kiara Advani’s upcoming projects include the highly anticipated action film War 2 with Hrithik Roshan and Jr. NTR, and the drama Game Changer alongside Ram Charan. ALSO READ: Cannes 2024: Kiara Advani makes pristine entrance in V-neckline Prabal Gurung thigh-high slit dress with statement earrings

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan continues to solidify her status as a Cannes Film Festival icon. This year marks her 22nd appearance at the prestigious event, and she hasn't missed a beat when it comes to captivating audiences with her stunning red carpet-looks. On Friday, she graced the red carpet for the second time at the 77th edition, dazzling in a dramatic ensemble by Falguni Shane Peacock.

The silver outfit, accented with turquoise hues, cascaded around her in a display of both elegance and drama. Soft curls cascading down her shoulders completed the picture-perfect look. Though not many were happy with her outfit choice, it seems like the actress carried the look with grace.

But beyond the breathtaking outfits, Rai Bachchan's presence at Cannes extends to heartwarming reunions with fellow celebrities. This year, she was brought face-to-face with another L'Oreal ambassador and actress, Eva Longoria. The two veterans of the Cannes red carpet happily reunited at the screening of Kinds of Kindness, delighting photographers with their radiant smiles. This isn't their first encounter at Cannes; Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Longoria were also spotted together at the festival and a L'Oreal event in 2022.

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Meanwhile, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s most recent project was Mani Ratnam's historical epic, Ponniyin Selvan 2 which was released last year to critical acclaim and box office success. The film boasted an ensemble cast, including Trisha, Vikram, Karthi, Jayam Ravi, Sobhita Dhulipala, and Aishwarya Lekshmi. ALSO READ: Cannes 2024: Aishwarya Rai Bachchan dazzles in Falguni Shane Peacock floor-sweeping black and white gown with gold detailing at Megalopolis world premiere

Sobhita Dhulipala stole the show at a glamorous event held on the sidelines of the 77th Cannes Film Festival. The actress, who recently graced social media with stunning pictures from the soiree, represented the ice cream brand Magnum at the French Riviera gathering.

The theme of the event, aptly titled “Welcome To The Pleasure Express,” resonated perfectly with Dhulipala's caption, which described an evening filled with “Euphoria, wonder, chill.” Highlighting the electrifying atmosphere, she mentioned captivating music, dazzling drag queen performances, delectable food, and an overall vibe that hit all the right notes. Dhulipala's post concluded with a celebratory, “Life's giving, baby,” encapsulating the spirit of the evening.

Dhulipala truly embodied the theme of pleasure and extravagance in a dazzling jumpsuit designed by the renowned Indian fashion couturier Namrata Joshipura. The Cordelia Jumpsuit, a sleeveless masterpiece crafted in a deep purple shade, exuded glamour with its intricate sequin work. The official website of the designer lists the outfit at a cool Rs. 1,80,000, reflecting its luxurious quality.

The cropped bodice featured a plunging V-neckline, adding a touch of daring allure. Broad straps provided support and balanced the revealing neckline. Dhulipala's wavy locks cascaded down her shoulders, framing her face accentuated by subtle makeup. The overall look was a perfect blend of elegance, sophistication, and a hint of boldness.

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Beyond the fashion buzz, Dhulipala's presence at Cannes signifies her growing stature in the Indian film industry. Her debut film, Raman Raghav 2.0, premiered at the prestigious festival back in 2016, marking a significant early step in her career. This year's appearance highlights her continued journey as she recently made her Hollywood debut with Dev Patel’s Monkey Man. ALSO READ: Kiara Advani and Sobhita Dhulipala make their way to French Riviera ahead of Cannes Film Festival 2024 debut, see videos

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan finally graced the red carpet at the 77th Cannes Film Festival, much to the delight of fans and fashion aficionados worldwide.  For over a week, anticipation has been building as everyone awaited her arrival, knowing her history of show-stopping looks at the prestigious event.

Bachchan, a former Miss World and longtime L'Oréal Paris brand ambassador has consistently captivated audiences at Cannes over the past decade.

The 50-year-old actress made a dazzling entrance at the premiere of Francis Ford Coppola's highly anticipated film Megalopolis. She opted for a stunning black and white ensemble with intricate gold detailing, showcasing her signature style.

The custom-made Falguni Shane Peacock gown was further elevated by meticulous hand-beaten molten gold flowers and plates adorning the dress. The meticulous craftsmanship of the gold flowers and plates added a touch of opulence and regality to the overall look. The contrasting black and white served as a canvas for the exquisite goldwork.

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Despite sporting a white cast on her right hand, Bachchan's smile remained radiant as she waved to the cheering crowds and interacted with the paparazzi. Several clips circulating online also feature Aaradhya Bachchan, Bachchan's daughter, walking beside her mother as they exited their hotel.

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Over the years, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has established herself as a red-carpet icon at Cannes. Her past appearances have featured a variety of breathtaking outfits, from exquisite gowns to elegant sarees, all showcasing her impeccable fashion sense and ability to carry any look with confidence. ALSO READ: Aishwarya Rai heads to Cannes Film Festival with arm in sling, fans express concern

Jacqueline Fernandez, known for her elegance and style, is set to make another memorable appearance at the esteemed Cannes Film Festival 2024. Having graced the prestigious Cannes red carpet on numerous occasions, Jacqueline exudes an aura of sophistication and grace, making heads turn with her charm and poise. This year, her presence is set to take on a new dimension as she aligns with a big brand, showcasing the fusion of glamour and luxury.

Expressing her anticipation for the event, Jacqueline shared, “I am super excited to go to the Cannes Film Festival once again this year, this time in association with BMW and I cannot wait for it. It feels great to represent the South East Asian diaspora at a global level, and it’s an honour to walk the prestigious red carpet where many legends have already walked.”

Over the years, the Cannes Film Festival has been known to highlight cinematic excellence, attracting distinguished celebrities from around the world to celebrate the art of filmmaking. Jacqueline's participation not only adds a touch of Bollywood flair to the event but also underscores the growing global influence of Indian cinema. ALSO READ: Jacqueline Fernandez enjoys the floating boat market in Pattaya, plays with baby goats, see photos and videos

What is the similarity between Vicky Kaushal and Dharmesh Darshan? Both celebrate their birthdays today. The latter, who turns 55, began his career as a director at the young age of 24 with the action romantic entertainer Lootere (1993). His second film, Raja Hindustani (1996) emerged as one of the biggest hits of Indian cinema. Dhadkan (2000), meanwhile, is a cult classic and is remembered today for its music, plot and unconventional casting of Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and Shilpa Shetty. Last year, Bollywood Hungama broke the news that Dharmesh Darshan has been offered Dhadkan 2. The news spread like wildfire, which only proved how that film continues to be loved. It also proved that Dharmesh Darshan’s popularity is intact.

Bollywood Hungama exclusively spoke to Dharmesh Darshan about his birthday plans. He smiled and said, “There are no plans. Next year, I’ll surely party (laughs).”

At a time when the industry is going through a tough time and action films are facing fatigue, a romantic musical like Dhadkan 2 can prove to be a success, just like the first part. When asked if he’d like to get back into direction, he said, “If cinema needs me, I will always be there, that too with age being still on my side and with my positivity.”

He continued, "As for Dhadkan 2, it may or may not be a sequel to one of my timeless classics or it may be an absolutely fresh take on modern cinema by a newly reinvented Dĥarmesh Sĥeela Darsĥan.”

We then asked him about memorable birthdays of his life, especially the ones celebrated with the members of the film fraternity. Dharmesh Darshan revealed, “I was never a show-off. But I remember this one birthday of mine when the producer of my film threw a surprise party for me. My best friends at that point – Aditya Chopra, Karan Johar, Anil Thadani, and Manish Malhotra – surprised me by being there at that very select dinner gathering.”

He also revealed, “The other memorable party was the one that I threw at the insistence of this same producer friend. It was held close to my house in Pali Hill at Napoli By Shatranj restaurant. Aditya Chopra and Karan Johar were in attendance and Akshay Kumar made a surprise visit. So sweet of him!”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Sequel to Akshay Kumar-Suniel Shetty-Shilpa Shetty starrer Dhadkan in the works; director Dharmesh Darshan shares INTERESTING details

With a thriving career in the television industry, Rupali Ganguly, who traced a beautiful journey from being Monisha Sarabhai to now being Anupama Joshi, is someone who seems to have it all. Along with her show continuing to be topping TRP charts for the past couple of years to having a supportive husband and beautiful family, the actress seems to be balancing all of it equally well too. But, did you know that the actress had a tough time being pregnant?

Recalling her journey to India Forums, Rupali Ganguly revealed that the doctors had given up on her conceiving naturally and had suggested to opt for other procedures. She said, “For a lot of years, doctors told me that I cannot conceive and that I would have to undergo the IVF or other procedures. However, I conceived Rudransh naturally”. She also went on to add that she did not want to opt for C section either because she wanted to go through labour pain. “I always wanted a normal delivery. It was because I wanted to experience labour pain. Every minute of my labour pain was precious,” she stated.

She also went on to share, “You know how when you are told that you will never get something but then you finally get it, so you want to cherish it wholeheartedly. The same happened with me, I was cherishing every moment ever since the labour pain started at around 11 am in the morning. I reached breach candy hospital at around 8 in the evening. When I got my first labor pain there, I was so happy, I was ecstatic. Pehli bar kisi ne dekha hoga ke aurat ro bhi rahi hai aur hass bhi rahi hai. It was because maine kabhi socha nahi tha ke main labour pain experience karungi, so I was very very happy and very touched that god has given me this opportunity to experience this feeling.”

Rupali Ganguly tied the knot with businessman Ashwin K. Verma in 2013 and the couple has a son.

Also Read: TV star Rupali Ganguly joins BJP following Kangana Ranaut: ‘I should also take part in this’

In a heartwarming social media exchange, veteran actress Zeenat Aman took to Instagram on Monday to express her gratitude for Dimple Kapadia's unwavering support during a challenging time in her life. Since Dimple isn't on social media, Zeenat tagged Twinkle Khanna hoping the message would reach her. Zeenat's post featured a candid picture, possibly taken on the sets of the film Chhailla Babu, and recounted a memory of Dimple's kindness.

While acknowledging Dimple's undeniable talent, Zeenat's focus was on her character. She revealed that Dimple, despite facing potential criticism herself, was one of the few who publicly stood by Zeenat during a difficult phase. This act of loyalty left a lasting impression on Zeenat, who admires Dimple's strength to this day.

Twinkle Khanna, true to her social media-savvy nature, promptly responded to Zeenat's post on behalf of her mother. She expressed appreciation for the "lovely picture" and relayed Dimple's gratitude for Zeenat's "gracious words."

Interestingly, both Zeenat and Dimple received their big breaks in Bollywood thanks to the legendary director Raj Kapoor. Dimple, at a young age, was cast in the iconic film Bobby, while Zeenat's path to stardom came through Satyam Shivam Sundaram. She wrote, “I can't recollect where this picture was taken, but it quite certainly had something to do with the film Chhailla Babu. Perhaps it's a bts shot from set. I say this because while the chairs scream "production", I'm in my own clothes not a costume. With me are the director of the film Joy Mukherjee and the effervescent Dimple Kapadia, who must have been visiting set as she was married to the lead actor.”

More importantly, Zeenat revealed a deeply personal anecdote. She disclosed that Dimple stood by her during a challenging personal phase, even facing public criticism for her support. This act of loyalty left a lasting impression on Zeenat, who expressed her admiration for Dimple's strength of character. “Dimple and I both got big career breaks thanks to Raj Kapoor. She as a teenager, when she was cast in and as Bobby. Whereas I was able to deliver a blow to my "western image" thanks to SSS (Satyam Shivam Sundaram),” she added.

She wrote, “This isn't a post about Dimple's talent though she has that in spades, it's about the little I saw of her character. During a very difficult phase in my life she was one of a mere handful of people who publicly stood by me. This despite the criticism and scrutiny of her own life that the decision invited! In those trying times she revealed to me a strength of character that I admire to date. I don't believe she is on Instagram, but perhaps @twinklerkhanna will pass on my love to her. Truly, a wave of appreciation washed over me when I found this picture some days ago.”

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Speaking of the professional front, the veteran actress will be seen in Bun Tikki, a Manish Malhotra film, also starring Shabana Azmi and Abhay Deol. ALSO READ: Zeenat Aman recalls Dimple Kapadia supporting her during “Difficult phase”: “Despite the criticism and scrutiny of her own life…”

Music maestro A.R. Rahman, the celebrated composer behind recent hits like Amar Singh Chamkila starring Diljit Dosanjh and Parineeti Chopra, recently shared a glimpse into his inspiring past. In a conversation with Imtiaz Ali, Mohit Chauhan, and Irshad Kamil for Netflix, Rahman spoke about his unconventional path to musical mastery.

Despite not attending college, Rahman's passion for music blossomed at a young age. “I had a lot of questions,” he recalled. “When I was 12, I was vibing with people in their 40s and 50s.” This curiosity, fueled by a touch of youthful boredom, led him on a journey of exploration, immersing himself in a vast array of musical styles. “That side was spectacular for me,” he said. “There was so much out there.”

Rahman's dedication wasn't without its challenges. When he decided to establish his own studio, financial constraints loomed large. He shared a particular memory, “When I built my studio, I didn't have money to buy an amplifier or equalizer.” The room itself was a simple set-up, with just an air conditioner, a shelf, and carpeting. “I used to be sitting there not having money to buy anything,” he described.

The turning point came thanks to a selfless act. “My first recorder came after my mom gave her jewels to be pledged,” Rahman revealed. This sacrifice empowered him, as he explained, “That is when I felt empowered. I could see my future that one moment I changed.”

Amar Singh Chamkila was released on the streaming platform on April 12 and has become one of the beloved projects for all the people associated with it. Amar Singh Chamkila was a Punjabi singer who rose to fame in the 1970s and 80s. He was known for his energetic music and often controversial lyrics, which addressed social issues and sometimes used double entendres. His tragic death at the peak of his career left a lasting impact. The 2024 biographical drama explores Chamkila's rise to fame, his struggles with criticism, and his untimely demise. ALSO READ: Aamir Khan reunites with Ghajini co-star at Sarfarosh 25th anniversary celebration, watch