Indus Chronicles

Kareena Kapoor Khan's upcoming film, The Buckingham Murders, is set to be a gripping mystery thriller. As the film's release date draws near, anticipation has reached a fever pitch, fueled by the intriguing posters and teaser that have been released. One of the key factors contributing to the film's authenticity is the meticulous attention to detail that went into the casting process.

To ensure that the actors truly embodied their roles and brought a sense of realism to the story, the filmmakers conducted extensive auditions in the United Kingdom. By selecting talent who were native to the regions depicted in the film, they were able to create a more immersive and believable experience for viewers. As evident in the teaser, the film features glimpses of foreign locations. Since the script required talents to look like they belong to a certain region, the makers conducted multiple local auditions in the UK to select talents that truly resonated with the story.

In addition to the casting process, the filmmakers also spared no expense when it came to location scouting. The film features stunning visuals of foreign locales, adding to the sense of mystery and intrigue. By carefully selecting locations that aligned with the story's narrative, the filmmakers were able to create a visually stunning backdrop that enhanced the overall viewing experience.

The Buckingham Murders marks a significant milestone for Kareena Kapoor Khan, as it is her debut as a producer. The film also marks another collaboration between Kareena and Ektaa R Kapoor, following the success of Veere Di Wedding and Crew.

Helmed by Hansal Mehta, the film is scheduled to release in theatres on September 13, 2024. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: The Buckingham Murders goes the Delhi Belly and Dhobi Ghat way; Kareena Kapoor Khan-starrer to release in original Hinglish and dubbed Hindi version

The anticipation surrounding the upcoming reunion of the duo, Priyadarshan and Akshay Kumar, has been palpable among fans. Their previous collaborations such as the comedic gems Hera Pheri and Bhool Bhulaiyaa, have been blockbusters at the box office. A source close to the project has revealed that the film, a horror comedy, will soon be unveiled to the eager audience. The project will be backed by Ektaa R Kapoor.

As per a report in Mid-day, on September 9, Akshay Kumar's birthday, fans can expect a special treat in the form of a motion poster. This one-minute teaser will not only reveal the much-anticipated title but also offer a glimpse of Kumar's character. Priyadarshan has been working tirelessly to bring this project to life. According to the source, the director recently visited Mumbai to finalize the motion poster.

Bollywood Hungama had reported that Akshay Kumar and Priyadarshan are reuniting after 14 years in February of 2024. Back in April 2024, Priyadarshan told Hindustan Times, “Now that I am done with my docu-series on the Ram Mandir’s history, my most important film on which I am beginning work is the one with Akshay, produced by Ekta Kapoor. It is a horror fantasy with humour.”

When asked if it's like Bhool Bhulaiyaa, the filmmaker said, “That was a psychological thriller, but this one will be fantasy, in the backdrop of black magic, the oldest superstition of India. It is always a pleasure collaborating with Akshay. From our first film to this one, it has always turned out well with him, he handles the emotions so well. I was waiting for a good subject to get back with him, and this one I feel will be that.”

While plot details remain under wraps, it is known that Akshay Kumar will be playing a charming character who finds himself entangled in a love triangle with three women. The horror comedy genre, combined with Priyadarshan's signature comedic touch and Akshay Kumar's charismatic presence, promises a unique and entertaining cinematic experience. ALSO READ: Akshay Kumar and Priyadarshan confirmed to reunite after 14 years for a horror fantasy film

A highly anticipated action drama Mitti starring Sidharth Malhotra has been put on hold indefinitely. In June of this year, reports emerged that Malhotra was teaming up with producer Murad Khetani and director Balwinder Singh Janjua for a gritty action film. South Indian actress Sreeleela was also cast in the film. However, recent developments suggest that Malhotra abruptly exited the film just weeks before production was scheduled to begin.

As per a report in Peeping Moon, the reasons for his departure remain unclear, citing both creative differences with the director and concerns about the script itself. While some sources suggest Malhotra simply wasn't convinced by the project's direction, others claim his decision may have been influenced by a desire for more creative control on set. There's also speculation that the actor's recent box office struggles may have played a role, potentially making it difficult to secure funding for the film.

Earlier, director Balwinder Singh Janjua had earlier spoken to Bollywood Hungama to offer details about the project's themes. He described it as an "action drama set in Uttarakhand," a story that revolves around "guilt, living with the baggage of guilt." He further elaborated that the film would explore themes of "saving your home and your land, your heritage," emphasizing the importance of family and relationships. Rumors are rife that Malhotra might be attached to an upcoming romantic comedy produced by Dinesh Vijan and directed by Dasvi filmmaker Tushar Jalota. This project, initially slated to begin filming in late 2023, was reportedly delayed due to budgetary concerns. Now, with Malhotra potentially on board, the film appears to be back on track, with filming potentially commencing in the coming months. The yet-untitled film is expected to be a light-hearted and commercially viable project, a stark contrast to the action drama Malhotra recently departed. While the casting of the female lead hasn't been officially confirmed, reports suggest that Janhvi Kapoor is in talks for the role. Meanwhile, Sidharth Malhotra is also in talks with the makers of Race 4 to join Saif Ali Khan in the new installment. ALSO READ: Sreeleela to play lead opposite Sidharth Malhotra in Mitti, filming to begin in October: Report

Rhea Chakraborty has been making headlines recently with her comeback through her podcast, Chapter 2. In a candid interview with Humans of Bombay, the actress shared her harrowing experience of being incarcerated following the tragic death of her former boyfriend, Sushant Singh Rajput.

A Public Enemy Overnight Rhea candidly described how her life took a dramatic turn after Sushant's passing. She revealed the immense pressure she faced, being vilified by the media and subjected to relentless online harassment. The trauma of personal loss, coupled with the public scrutiny, pushed her to her limits.

Despite the overwhelming challenges, Rhea found the strength to persevere. She recalled, “Don't bend, don't cry, don't break. You have to take a bullet, you have to take it in the a**. I remember looking at myself in the mirror and saying, you're scared, right? It almost felt like the mirror said yes. Investigations every day, there was media and mobs under my building constantly, and it required a lot of strength to even make it to the investigation because I was worried that something would happen on the way.” The Truth as Her Shield Rhea revealed that her unwavering belief in the truth was a source of strength throughout her ordeal. She said, “When I walked out of prison, I knew I would never be the same person again. Jail is actually a very different world because there's no society in jail. It’s all about survival, you know? Every single day was about surviving. And each day felt like a year.”

Reflecting on her time in jail, Rhea admitted that she emerged as a different person. The experience taught her valuable lessons about survival, resilience, and the true nature of relationships. “I have not forgiven everybody. Some people are on my head now," she concluded.

For the unversed, a case of alleged abetment to suicide was registered against Rhea by Sushant's parents. Meanwhile, she was arrested by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in a drug-related case which surfaced during Sushant's death probe.

Also Read: Rhea Chakraborty breaks silence on depression after Sushant Singh Rajput’s death; says, “It took me years to heal, there was pain, anxiety, PTSD, and what not”

In a recent appearance on the podcast Jaane Mann, renowned filmmaker Karan Johar shared his thoughts on power and peace, attributing these qualities to iconic figures in his life. When asked to relate the words “peace” and “power” to individuals he admires, Johar highlighted megastar Amitabh Bachchan and the late spiritual leader Dada Vaswani.

Amitabh Bachchan: A Symbol of Power KJo described Amitabh Bachchan as the epitome of power, emphasizing the legendary actor's commanding presence. Johar elaborated, "Amitabh Bachchan, I think he has the power of his being when he enters a room. I feel he has that power that most people will stand up, and they don’t know why they are standing up. He exudes an aura that is beyond your understanding of what an energy or power is. That is true power. Magnetism." Dada Vaswani: The Embodiment of Peace When the conversation shifted to peace, Karan Johar spoke of the late Dada Vaswani, a revered spiritual leader. Johar recalled a profound encounter with Vaswani during an event attended by 50,000 people, where he felt an unparalleled sense of tranquility. “I’ve never felt more at peace than I was with him... I had never really been moved by people in the spiritual world. But I was very moved by his presence, and I felt at peace," Johar remarked.

In addition to discussing power and peace, Karan Johar reflected on his personal journey, both as a filmmaker and an individual. Speaking candidly about his experiences, he expressed pride in the path he has chosen, despite the challenges. "I was never like the other boys—their interests, their style, their sports—it just wasn’t me. It took me years to understand that I don’t owe anyone an apology for being different. I’ve embraced who I am, and that’s become my power,” Johar shared.

This self-acceptance has been a cornerstone of Johar's success, allowing him to live authentically and without regret. "To this day, I have never regretted the way I’ve lived or the work I’ve pursued. Everything I do is for me, unapologetically. I just want to live my truth," he concluded.

Speaking of the professional front, Karan’s last directorial release was Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. The Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt starrer was released in July 2023. Currently, Karan is busy promoting Call Me Bae, an Amazon Prime Video series produced by Dharmatic Entertainment. The web show stars Ananya Panday in the lead and will start streaming from September 6. 

Also Read: Kalki 2898 AD: Nag Ashwin breaks down Amitabh Bachchan-Prabhas’ face-off, Deepika Padukone’s climax scene, Kamal Haasan bringing Supreme Yaskin to life in new video, watch

Kangana Ranaut, actor and newly elected Member of Parliament, recently addressed the mounting concerns surrounding her latest film Emergency. Ranaut, who portrays former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in the film, revealed that the project faces significant obstacles with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).

In a video message shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, Ranaut clarified the situation, stating, “There are rumours that our film Emergency has got a censor certificate. It is not true. In fact, our film was cleared earlier but its certification has been stopped because of several threats.”

#Emergency pic.twitter.com/Klko20kkqY — Kangana Ranaut (@KanganaTeam) August 30, 2024

Ranaut further disclosed that both she and members of the CBFC have been receiving threats related to the film's content. According to the actor, pressure is being exerted on the board to censor specific parts of the film, particularly scenes depicting Indira Gandhi’s assassination, the involvement of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, and the Punjab riots. “People of the censor board are also getting a lot of threats. There is pressure on us not to show the assassination of Mrs. Gandhi, Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, and the Punjab riots. I don’t know what we will show then, that there is a blackout in the film. This is an unbelievable time for me and I am very sorry for this state of things in this country,” she lamented.

The film, which was initially scheduled for release on September 6, now faces an uncertain future. Earlier, the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) issued a legal notice to the CBFC, demanding a halt to the film’s release. The notice argues that the film could potentially incite communal tensions and spread misinformation, particularly concerning the portrayal of the Sikh community.

As reported by NDTV, the legal notice sent on August 27 argues that the film’s depictions are not only misleading but also harmful to the social cohesion of Punjab and the broader national community. “Such depictions are not only misleading but also deeply offensive and damaging to the social fabric of Punjab and the entire nation. It is apparent that Ranaut has chosen the subject of the Emergency not to make a genuine political or historical statement against Congress, but rather to target the Sikh community,” the notice stated. The SAD claims that the movie portrays the Sikh community in an unjust and negative light, which could have serious repercussions.

The controversy surrounding Emergency has escalated in recent days, with Ranaut also reaching out to the police for assistance. A recent development has brought Kangana Ranaut's upcoming film Emergency under scrutiny, as members of the Sikh community have expressed strong objections to its content. Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has reportedly assured community leaders that the state government will explore the possibility of prohibiting the film’s release, pending legal counsel.

Earlier this week, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the apex body responsible for the management of historical Gurdwaras, issued a legal notice to the producers of the film, including Kangana Ranaut, alleging that the movie misrepresents Sikh history and contains scenes that have deeply offended the Sikh community. The SGPC's legal notice demanded the immediate removal of objectionable scenes from Emergency and called for an apology from the filmmakers to the Sikh community. The SGPC also insisted that the film's trailer, which was released on August 14, be taken down from all public and social media platforms. ALSO READ: Kangana Ranaut claims Emergency DENIED certification by CBFC amid ban calls: “I am determined to even go to court to protect my film”

Delhi Crime and Poacher creator Richie Mehta, Imagine Entertainment and Baweja Studios partner on Boy from Andaman. The project is produced by Janice Chua, Rick Ambros, Bhhaskar De and Harman Baweja and directed by Parinaz Jal.

Richie Mehta will be the Executive Producer of the upcoming film Boy from Andaman. Making her directing debut is Parinaz Jal. The film's producers are Los Angeles-based Rick Ambros, Vancouver-based Bhhaskar De and Mumbai-based Sharmila Pinheiro and Harman Baweja. Janice Chua are spearheading the project on behalf of Imagine Entertainment. Harman Baweja, who runs Baweja Studios in Mumbai, has come on board as a producer.

Based on an original idea by Manu Chopra, the script is written by Jal and Chopra, Boy from Andaman tells the story of Mohan, a post office worker in Mumbai who comes across a letter addressed to "God" from a young boy who has survived the deadly tsunami of 2004 in the Andaman Islands. An unlikely friendship develops between the two through a series of letter exchanges before Mohan decides to travel to Andamans and save the boy.

Boy from Andaman delves into the profound themes of faith as experienced by two characters navigating vastly different realities. Says Chua who is producing for Imagine Entertainment, "I was deeply moved by Manu Chopra’s story when it was first introduced to me through Rick and Bhhaskar. I'm thrilled to collaborate with the talented Richie Mehta and first-time director Parinaz Jal, to bring this powerful script to life".

Ambros, a Hollywood veteran, and Bhhaskar, a producer and marketing and communication leader at the Vancouver-based law firm Remedios & Company and former Zee executive, said, "Boy is a story of hope and compassion that renews our faith in humanity, something often in short supply today. We are very excited about our collaboration with Janice, Richie, Pari and Harman in bringing this project to life."

Richie Mehta says, " When Janice Chua approached me about this story, I was instantly taken by the simplicity, potency, and beauty of it, and felt that as a collaboration between Imagine, Bhhaskar, Rick, Parinaz, Harman and myself, we could make something magical. I couldn’t be more excited to embark on this adventure and bring this powerful tale to life."

Producer, writer, and actor Harman Baweja adds, "I’m excited to be part of such an ambitious project, Boy from Andaman—a story that is both heartwarming and inspiring. Working alongside such a talented team, including Richie Mehta, Janice Chua, Rick Ambros, and Bhhaskar De, is a privilege. The story of Mohan resonated with me, and I knew it was something we had to bring to life. I can’t wait for audiences to experience this beautiful journey of faith and humanity." ALSO READ: Ikhwan: From Militant to Soldier: Baweja Studios set to produce biopic inspired by Kashmir’s first Ashok Chakra awardee Late Lance Naik Nazir Wani

Building on the success of Mirzapur’s first two seasons, the third season, which received mixed reviews, became one of the most-watched series on Prime Video. While Season 3 ended on a cliffhanger, Prime Video surprised Mirzapur fans with a special treat: a bonus episode featuring none other than their beloved Munna Tripathi (Divyenndu). One of the show's most iconic characters, Munna Bhaiya's absence in the latest season caused an uproar on social media, with ardent fans demanding his return to the fan-favourite show.

In the teaser, Divyenndu greets fans in his signature Munna Bhaiya style and shares, “Hum kya gaye pura bawaal mach gaya, suna hain hamare loyal fans bahut miss kiye humko. Sach kahen, miss toh hum bhi bahut kie aap log ko. Humare liye loyalty ki value sabse badhkar aur apki es loyalty ke lie royalty toh banti hai. Season 3 mein kuch cheeze miss kiye aap, woh hum khoj ke leke aaye, just for you Munna Tripathi ke saujanyay se.”

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The bonus episode, while promising a glimpse into the world of Mirzapur, failed to deliver the same level of excitement and satisfaction that the main seasons had consistently provided. The disappointment was particularly acute for fans who had been eagerly awaiting Munna Bhaiya's return. The character's charismatic presence and tragic demise in the second season had left a lasting impression on viewers, and many had hoped that the bonus episode would offer a satisfying conclusion to his story arc. However, the episode's portrayal of Munna Bhaiya was met with mixed reactions, with some fans feeling that his characterization was inconsistent with previous seasons.

Produced and created by Excel Media and Entertainment, Mirzapur Season 3 is directed by Gurmmeet Singh and Anand Iyer. The series boasts a stellar ensemble cast, including Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal, Shweta Tripathi Sharma, Rasika Dugal, Vijay Varma, Isha Talwar, Anjumm Shharma, Priyanshu Painyuli, Harshita Shekhar Gaur, Rajesh Tailang, Sheeba Chadha, Meghna Malik, and Manu Rishi Chadha. The gripping crime thriller is available to stream exclusively on Prime Video. ALSO READ: Ali Fazal announces Mirzapur season 3 bonus episode in Guddu Pandit style, watch

The release of highly anticipated films often sparks a frenzy of promotional activities. While studios and filmmakers play a pivotal role in generating buzz, the cinema chains themselves can also contribute significantly to the hype. Roongta Cinemas recently demonstrated this with a unique and unforgettable campaign to promote the horror-comedy sequel, Stree 2.

Rather than relying on traditional billboards or social media ads, Roongta Cinemas devised a more immersive and interactive strategy. They transformed their multiplex theaters into a chilling playground for the film's titular character. A woman, dressed in the iconic red saree and veil of Shraddha Kapoor's character from Stree, would make surprise appearances during screenings of the film. The unexpected encounter sent shivers down the spines of unsuspecting moviegoers.  Many patrons, initially startled, quickly embraced the playful surprise, posing for selfies and capturing the moment on their phones.

The campaign's success was evident in the enthusiastic response on social media. Moviegoers shared their experiences and reactions to the surprise appearances, creating a viral buzz that extended far beyond the walls of Roongta Cinemas. The campaign effectively tapped into the film's horror-comedy genre, offering a thrilling and memorable experience for audiences.

Stree 2, helmed by Amar Kaushik, stars Shraddha Kapoor, Rajkummar Rao, Aparshakti Khurana, Abhishek Banerjee and Pankaj Tripathi. Released on Independence Day 2024, the film has garnered Rs. 453.60 crores at the box office till now.

ALSO READ: Amar Kaushik on the success of Stree 2, “It’s neither my film, nor just the producers’ film, nor any one actors”

Netflix India’s Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, hailed as a groundbreaking masterpiece, has secured nominations in two categories at the prestigious 29th Busan International Film Festival (Asia Contents Awards & Global OTT Awards 2024) for Best OTT Original and Best Original Song for ‘Sakal Ban.’ This achievement marks a significant milestone for Indian storytelling on the global stage as it is the only Indian title to be nominated in the two categories. ACA & G.OTT Awards 2024 will be held on Sunday, October 6th, 2024, at the BIFF Theater of the Busan Cinema Center in South Korea.

Produced by Bhansali Productions and directed by filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar features a stellar cast including Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Sharmin Segal, and Sanjeeda Shaikh. This saga captivated audiences with a poignant tale of forbidden love and duty. The series' music, a masterful composition by Bhansali himself, enhances its emotional depth and grandeur, with each song adding a rich, evocative layer to the storytelling and elevating the overall cinematic experience.

Expressing his heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming appreciation of the series, filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali says, “It’s an honour to be nominated for the Asia Contents Awards. I’m grateful to the jury and the audiences for this incredible recognition.”

Adding another feather to its cap, Netflix has garnered a total of 23 nominations building on its momentum from last year’s win (Best Series & Best Actress) for the critically acclaimed series Scoop. ALSO READ: Kangana Ranaut REFUSED Ram Leela song offer: “Cant do item numbers, even for Sanjay Leela Bhansali”

The trailer of Yudhra was launched in a multiplex in Mumbai in the presence of actors Siddhant Chaturvedi, Malavika Mohanan, Raghav Juyal and Raj Arjun, director Ravi Udyawar and producer Ritesh Sidhwani. Raghav, who was recently loved in a negative role in Kill (2024), stole the show at the event with his quick-witted replies.

When asked about the bloodshed in the film, he said, “It is just beetroot juice for me!”

He further said, “Yudhra was shot way before Kill. It’s a film close to my heart as I put a lot of time and effort into preparing for this character. Sharirik taklif toh zaroor hui par maansik taklifein bhi hui mujhe!” But he also added it was worth it and stated, “I love doing action nowadays.”

Producer Ritesh Sidhwani, however, clarified, “There’s not a lot of bloodbath in the film. You might get a feeling that it’s too much but it’s not.” Raghav Juyal further explained, “The action is very stylized and poetic.”

Raghav talked about his excitement about doing a film with Excel Entertainment, “Yeh mujhe apni film mein khamba bhi banate, toh main ban jaata! I have got a chance to do a villainous role and hence, I have grabbed it. If I am given the role of a hero, I would do that as well. But playing a villain is fun. Feel hai isme. Shah Rukh Khan sir ne bhi (apna career) villain (role) se hi start kiya tha na? Toh aisa kuch mujhe lag raha hai ki ho jaaye!”

Director Ravi Udyawar explained why the film took a long time to be made, “It took time for us to design the action. It’s very bare and raw action. There’s no cheating. We kept it very real and raw. When you see the film, you’ll be able to feel the pain. It was important for me to achieve that. The anger in the characters also came after many takes. They were really angry! Action for me is part of emotion and performance. There’s no shortcut to it. That’s how it happened and hence, it took time.”

He continued, “Kuch films ko pyaar se banana padta hai, dheemi aanch mein. They (Excel) had a vision and they trusted my vision. I was really lucky to have producers watching my back and asking me, ‘Are you happy?’.”

Raghav Juyal remarked, “There’s a corporate system in Bollywood. The makers are told to get the film ready in two months or four months. Pehle toh Mughal-E-Azam (1960) banti thi na? Tab toh koi sawaal nahin karta tha. Kuch bemisaal cheezon ko waqt lagta hai. Yudhra is one of them.”

Yudhra releases in cinemas on September 20.

Also Read: Siddhant Chaturvedi and Malavika Mohanan star in high-octane Yudhra trailer, watch

Kangana Ranaut's upcoming film, Emergency, is poised to be a significant milestone in her career. Ranaut not only stars as the late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi but also takes on the role of director, following her previous experience co-directing Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi in 2019. With Emergency, Ranaut aims to present a nuanced portrayal of one of India's most complex political figures.

The Inspiration Behind Emergency As per a report by Mid-Day, when asked about her motivation to create a film on Indira Gandhi, Ranaut explains that her decision wasn’t driven by a simple fascination with the former Prime Minister’s persona. Instead, it was a result of her deep social and political awareness. Ranaut delved into extensive research, reading works like Coomi Kapoor’s The Emergency: A Personal History and Gandhi’s autobiography. One moment that struck her was Gandhi's conversation with her guru, Jiddu Krishnamurti, where she expressed her inner turmoil during the Emergency: “I feel I’m riding a beast, which I loved riding initially, but now I can’t get off it.”

Ranaut describes Gandhi's life as a Shakespearean tragedy, filled with internal and external conflicts, which further compelled her to explore these themes on screen. “Mrs. Gandhi’s life was such a beautiful Shakespearean tragedy. There is a throne, a person destined to be the queen, her opponents, and her internal battle with her conscience,” she says. Addressing the Controversy Given Ranaut’s association with the Bharatiya Janata Party, there has been speculation that her portrayal of Gandhi might be biassed. Many critics have questioned whether the film would depict Gandhi in a negative light. Ranaut responds firmly to these doubts, stating, “This film will be a tight slap on all those faces, who think I’ve projected her in a negative way! They didn’t even give my film a chance. It’s a week away, at least watch it before forming your judgement.”

Ranaut explained that the biopic aims to show Gandhi’s many facets, including her roles as a woman, a mother, and a politician. She touches on the deep pain Gandhi experienced, particularly the loss of her son, Sanjay Gandhi, which Ranaut found challenging to portray on screen. “Her life had so much pain, trauma, and drama. I was keen to make this film because people don’t know those aspects of her,” she adds. The Challenges of Directing Emergency Directing Emergency was not an easy task for Ranaut. She admits that taking on the dual role of actor and director came with significant sacrifices, both financially and creatively. “My revenue took a hit. As an actor, I can do three films in a year, but as a writer-director, I can only do one film in three years,” she explains. Ranaut also faced difficulties in selling the film due to its unconventional content and setting. “The protagonist is in her 60s, and everybody in the movie is wearing khadi kurta pyjamas, but luckily Zee Studios stepped in.”

The film is all set to release on September 6. 

Also Read: Kangana Ranaut shares she and Deepika Padukone went to the same driving achool: “Woh toh drive kar rahi hai, woh toh….”

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, known affectionately as the King of Bollywood, has made a significant stride in his financial journey by securing his place on the prestigious 2024 Hurun India Rich List. At the age of 58, Khan's estimated wealth stands at an impressive Rs 7,300 crore.

Shah Rukh Khan's Business Ventures Drive Wealth Khan's inclusion in the list is primarily attributed to his strategic investments in various ventures, including the Kolkata Knight Riders cricket team and the production company Red Chillies Entertainment. These ventures have played a pivotal role in boosting his overall wealth. Social Media Dominance Beyond his financial success, Khan also holds the distinction of being the most followed individual on the Rich List, with a massive following of 44.1 million on Twitter. This surpasses all other billionaires and celebrities on the list, solidifying his position as a social media powerhouse.

Khan's journey to this point has not been without its challenges. As Juhi Chawla, his frequent co-star and co-owner of the Kolkata Knight Riders, recalled, Khan once faced financial difficulties so severe that he had to part with his car due to unpaid EMIs.

Meanwhile, on the professional front, Khan is gearing up for the highly anticipated film Tiger vs Pathaan, where he will share screen space with Salman Khan. This marks their full-fledged collaboration since their blockbuster hit Karan Arjun. While an official announcement regarding the project is yet to be made, fans are eagerly awaiting the clash of these two iconic superstars. Besides this, SRK also has Sujoy Ghosh’s King in the pipeline. The upcoming film will reportedly star his daughter Suhana Khan and Abhishek Bachchan as the antagonist. 

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Ratan Jain CONFIRMS Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2; also says “The day we get right subject and director, we’ll make Baazigar 2. And of course, it will be made ONLY with Shah Rukh Khan”

Imtiaz Ali, celebrated for his distinctive storytelling in films like Jab We Met and Rockstar, recently opened about his experience of working with Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh. Ali, who directed Dosanjh in the biographical film Amar Singh Chamkila, shared an interesting anecdote during an interview with Mid-Day. The filmmaker revealed that before signing on for the role, Diljit narrated the story of his 2023 film Jodi to Imtiaz.

A surprise narration from Diljit

When Imtiaz approached Diljit to discuss the lead role in Amar Singh Chamkila, he was surprised by the actor's response. Diljit, who had already worked on Jodi, a film inspired by the life of Chamkila, wanted Imtiaz to understand his previous work before committing to the new project. "Strangely, when I went to tell him the story of Chamkila, he was like 'Dekhiye sir, aap chahoge toh main to kar raha hoon, but let me tell you the story of Jodi,'" Imtiaz shared, emphasizing the actor's deep connection with the character.

Understanding Chamkila through Jodi

Diljit's dedication to portraying Chamkila was evident in his desire to ensure that Imtiaz was fully aware of his prior work. The actor showed Imtiaz some portions of Jodi, a film where he played Amar Singh Sitaara, a character inspired by Chamkila's life. Imtiaz noted that Diljit had a profound understanding of Chamkila, which significantly influenced the direction of the biopic.

A deep-rooted connection

Imtiaz Ali praised Diljit's commitment to his craft, highlighting how the actor's prior experience with Jodi enriched his portrayal of Chamkila in the 2024 biopic. "Diljit knew more about Chamkila than I did," Imtiaz admitted, expressing his admiration for the actor's thorough preparation. This unique approach helped in creating an authentic and powerful representation of the legendary Punjabi folk musician.

Also Read: Imtiaz Ali hopes Amar Singh Chamkila wins National Award after IFFM win: “It is made out of metros and mini-metros, and it goes into the heartland of India”

Stree 2 was released almost two weeks back and yet, the excitement around the film refuses to die down. Yesterday, its lead actor Rajkummar Rao posted a picture from the sets of the film. It features him in a female avatar and clad in a purple sequin skirt, a red top and a golden shrug. The actor, in the caption, mentioned that it was one of his favourite scenes from the film but sadly, it didn’t make it to the final cut. However, he didn’t give any information about what the scene was all about.

Bollywood Hungama has found out exciting details about this scene. A source from the unit said, “It involved Rajkummar cross-dressing and turning into a woman to lure the villain, Sarkata. This is because Sarkata attacked only females and hence, Vicky (Rajkummar Rao) takes this unusual and risky step.”

The source added, “Jana (Abhishek Banerjee) is also a part of this scene. He fails to recognize Vicky and mistakes him for someone else, adding to the comic quotient of the scene.” Another source said that Vicky’s heels break and it also contributes to the madness. Some comedy also happens over his wig, as per the source.

In the Instagram post, Rajkummar Rao also asked his followers, ‘Kya aap log dekhna chahte hain ye scene film mein? Aap sab batao’. Stree 2’s lead actress Shraddha Kapoor excitedly commented that this scene should be added to the final cut. Writer Niren Bhatt also commented that he wanted the film’s extended cut to be out.

It now remains to be seen if the said scene is added to the prints of Stree 2. An exhibitor told us, “This is often done by makers once their film is a hit. They might remove some scenes or a song if they feel their film is getting lengthy. After the film is accepted, the deleted portion gets added. In recent times, a song featuring Akshay Kumar and Govinda in Holiday – A Soldier Is Never Off Duty (2014) was added after a week. A sensual song of Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif in De Dana Dan (2009) too made it days after its release.”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Rajkummar Rao says Stree 2 co-star Pankaj Tripathi can throw “really heavy lines in a very nonchalant way”; lauds his talent 

Bollywood actor Sidharth Malhotra is gearing up to rekindle his romance with the silver screen. After a series of action-packed films, including Mission Majnu, Yodha, and the web show Indian Police Force, Malhotra is eager to return to the genre that first brought him to fame.

A New Romantic Venture with Dinesh Vijan According to a report by Mid-Day, Sidharth Malhotra is set to headline a new love story produced by Dinesh Vijan. The actor has been in discussions with Vijan's production house for some time and was immediately drawn to the script. The yet-to-be-titled project will be directed by Tushar Jalota, known for his work on the film Dasvi.

The report quoted a source saying, “Sidharth has been in talks with Dinesh’s production house for some time. He loved the script and is excited to team up with a banner that is known for bringing modern romances to the screen.” Returning to His Romantic Roots With this new film, Malhotra will be revisiting the genre he embraced in his early career years. His debut film, Student of the Year, was a campus romance, and he has since starred in several other romantic comedies, including Hasee Toh Phasee and Baar Baar Dekho.

Malhotra believes that his fans enjoy seeing him in romantic roles. However, he was determined to avoid the cliché and sought out a love story with a unique and refreshing tone. This new project seems to have perfectly aligned with his vision. Production Plans If everything goes according to plan, the filming for this romantic project will begin later this year. Fans of Sidharth Malhotra can look forward to seeing him back in the romantic genre, bringing his charm and talent to a new love story.

Also Read: Sidharth Malhotra in advanced talks to join Saif Ali Khan in Race 4; filming to begin in first half of 2025: Report

Bollywood's power couple Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh are gearing up for a new chapter in their lives as they prepare to welcome their first child in September. The actress has been making headlines with her stylish maternity looks, and recent reports suggest that the couple is planning to move into a new home after the birth of their baby.

Couple to Move into New Apartment Near Shah Rukh Khan's Residence According to a social media post by popular photographer Pallav Paliwal on Instagram, Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh are set to move into a sprawling new apartment following the arrival of their baby. Earlier rumours had hinted that the couple might become neighbours to Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan.

NDTV reported that Ranveer Singh, in association with his father Jagjit Sunder Singh Bhavnani's company Oh Five Oh Media Works LLP, had purchased a luxurious sea-facing quadruplex for Rs 119 crore in a high-end Mumbai area near Shah Rukh Khan's residence, Mannat. The expansive residence occupies the 16th to 19th floors of the building, offering a generous 11,266 sq ft of interior space and an additional 1,300 sq ft of private terrace.

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  A post shared by Pallav Paliwal (@pallav_paliwal)

It's worth noting that in 2021, Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone also purchased a bungalow in Alibaug for Rs 22 crore. Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh's Journey Together Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh announced their pregnancy in March this year, and their baby is expected to arrive in September. The couple tied the knot in 2018 and have been a much-loved pair in the Bollywood industry. Upcoming Projects for Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh On the professional front, Deepika Padukone was last seen in Nag Ashwin's Kalki 2898 AD, which also featured Amitabh Bachchan, Prabhas, and Disha Patani. She will next be seen in Rohit Shetty's Singham Again, where she plays ACP Shakti Shetty Bhalerao. The film, led by Ajay Devgn, boasts a star-studded cast including Ranveer Singh, Akshay Kumar, Tiger Shroff, and Arjun Kapoor.

Ranveer Singh will also be featured in Singham Again. Additionally, he is currently working on an untitled action-thriller directed by Aditya Dhar, where he will be portraying a completely new character. Fans are also eagerly anticipating his appearance in the much-awaited film Don 3.

Also Read: Kangana Ranaut shares she and Deepika Padukone went to the same driving achool: “Woh toh drive kar rahi hai, woh toh….”

Bollywood actor and politician Kangana Ranaut has made a new real estate investment in Mumbai, purchasing an office space in Andheri (West) for Rs 1.56 crore.  According to registration documents accessed by Propstack, Kangana Ranaut's new office space spans 407 square feet in carpet area. 

Details of Kangana Ranaut’s new property The property, located within the Arc One office complex in Andheri (West), was officially registered on August 23. The transaction involved a stamp duty payment of Rs 9,37,500. The Arc One office complex, developed by Chandra Gupta Estates, is a project registered with the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) in October 2022. The development is slated for completion by the end of 2026, adding a modern and strategically located commercial space to one of Mumbai's busiest districts. Kangana Ranaut's Expanding Footprint in Mumbai Kangana Ranaut has long been associated with Mumbai, where she has built her career as a leading actress in the Indian film industry. Despite her busy schedule and significant involvement in her home state of Himachal Pradesh, Ranaut continues to maintain and expand her professional footprint in Mumbai.

In addition to her work in cinema, Ranaut is now a prominent political figure, having been elected as a Member of Parliament representing the Mandi Lok Sabha constituency in Himachal Pradesh. Running on a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ticket, she defeated Vikramaditya Singh, son of the late Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh, during the 2024 general elections.

Speaking of the professional front, Kangana is currently busy promoting her upcoming film, Emergency. A few days back, she, along with her co-star Shreyas Talpade, spoke about the film in an exclusive chat with Bollywood Hungama. The film is slated to release on September 6. 

Also Read: Kangana Ranaut REFUSED ‘Ram Leela’ song offer: “Can’t do item numbers, even for Sanjay Leela Bhansali”

Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma’s Sarkar remains one of the iconic films from mainstream Bollywood. It was inspired from the Hollywood classic Godfather and it starred Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Kay Kay Menon, Katrina Kaif, among others. The movie completed 19 years last month on July 1.

The film is also known for a group of baddies who gang up against Subhash Nagre aka Sarkar (Amitabh Bachchan). One of them was the character of Rashid played convincingly by Zakir Hussain, who was a newcomer back then. During an exclusive chat with Bollywood Hungama, the actor looked back at the shoot of the film.

“It was a struggle period for me,” said Hussain. “There was a strong desire to get a good opportunity. At that time, Ram Gopal Varma’s company was the only one that was giving opportunities to newcomers. I was hopeful that I would get in somehow. Before him, there were 1-2 banners that used to give a chance to new people.”

On how he got the role, the actor said, “I had done a film called Ek Hasina Thi (2004). I had one scene in that movie. He (RGV) saw that scene and called me and had a conversation. I was selected. He then trained me for 4-5 months in his own way. There was a lot of hard-work with regards to what level of performance he wanted for that character.”

Despite getting selected for the pivotal role, the road wasn’t smooth for Hussain. He said that the film’s producers didn’t want a newcomer to play an antagonist against someone like Amitabh Bachchan. “In a way, he (RGV) fought with the producers saying that he only wants me for the role. He said that if I won’t be in the film, someone else would be but it will always be a newcomer. Producers were like, Bachchan sahab hai toh ek naya ladka kaise hoga? In a way, it was like a blind gamble, which worked,” laughed Hussain.

Varma also became like a guide for Hussain after they shot Sarkar together. The actor recalled a funny incident with RGV before the release of the film. “I asked RGV what should I do next. He said, ‘Don’t do anything. Let this film release’. After the release, I asked him the same. He said, ‘Do some work, what else?’ (laughs) He said I should do films with good director, production and role,” he said.

Hussain revealed that he kept getting villainous roles after Sarkar. The shackles were finally broken for him by filmmaker Rajkumar Santoshi. “Rajkumar Santoshi sahab also gave me a villainous role but it was also comic in Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani. Then people came to know that I can do comedy as well, so I started getting comic roles,” he said.

Zakir Hussain will next be seen in the ZEE5 web series Murshid alongside Kay Kay Menon and Tanuj Virwani. The show will stream from August 30 onwards.

Also Read: Ram Gopal Varma reacts to the box office performance of Stree 2, calls it “more scary than the film”

Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor Khan has finally responded to the legal notice issued to her by the Madhya Pradesh High Court over her book, 'Kareena Kapoor Khan's Pregnancy Bible'.

In her reply to the notice, the actress objected to the petition that sought a ban on the sale of her book, claiming that the title "hurt the religious sentiments" of a community. Kareena's lawyers, Divya Krishna Billaiya and Nikhil Bhatt, stated that the actress had no intention of offending any religious beliefs.

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has scheduled the next hearing in the matter on September 10.

Kareena's lawyer, Divya Krishna Billaiya, categorically denied the allegations of hurting religious sentiments. She stated that the book was not intended to offend any community. 

Having said that it is worth mentioning here that in one of the posts to promote her book, Bebo wrote, “This has been quite the journey… both my pregnancies and writing my Pregnancy Bible. There were good days and bad days; some days I was raring to go to work and others where I struggled to get out of bed. This book is a very personal account of what I experienced both physically and emotionally through both my pregnancies.”

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  A post shared by Kareena Kapoor Khan (@kareenakapoorkhan)

Earlier, social activist Christopher Anthony from Jabalpur had filed a petition against the book's title, arguing that the word "Bible" was disrespectful to the Christian community. He claimed that the Bible is a sacred text and comparing it to a pregnancy memoir was inappropriate.

Kareena's book, 'Kareena Kapoor Khan's Pregnancy Bible', was published in August 2021 and had initially gained popularity, even making it to the bestsellers list. However, the controversy surrounding its title led to a legal notice from the Madhya Pradesh High Court.

Also Read: Kareena Kapoor Khan shares heartfelt message on embracing motherhood: “Let them feed what they love and…”