Indus Chronicles

A few days ago, reports came in that the sequel to Kangana Ranaut’s iconic film, Queen (2014), is in the works. According to the article in Mid-Day, the film will be directed by Vikas Bahl, who also helmed the first part, and is set to go on floors in April. Bollywood Hungama has learned that the film won't be called Queen 2 and that the makers have a title in mind.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “The makers had several options for the film’s title and the one that has really caught their eye is Queen Forever. If all goes well, this will be what the film will be called.”

The source continued, “The makers feel Queen Forever is the apt title and that it suits the film’s subject. They are expected to finalize it very soon and make an official announcement, hopefully before the film’s shoot begins.”

Bollywood Hungama has also learned that Amit Chandrra of Trigger Happy Entertainment will be producing Queen Forever. His banner, Trigger Happy Studios, earlier produced the Farhan Akhtar-starrer 120 Bahadur along with Excel Entertainment.

As per the Mid-Day story, in Queen’s sequel, Kangana Ranaut’s character, Rani, will not go to foreign shores. Instead, she’ll travel to different cities across India while also embarking on a journey of self-discovery.

About Queen Besides Kangana Ranaut, Queen also starred Rajkummar Rao, Lisa Haydon, Nayani Dixit and others. It was produced by Vikramaditya Motwane and Anurag Kashyap of Phantom Films, along with Viacom18 Motion Pictures, and told the story of a girl left devastated after her fiancé calls off their wedding at the last minute. Nevertheless, she decides to go on her honeymoon alone. How this trip transforms her life completely formed the rest of the film.

Queen emerged as a pathbreaking film and was loved for its subject, progressive theme, treatment, award-winning performance by Kangana Ranaut and music by Amit Trivedi. The film opened at just Rs. 1.75 crores and then went on to earn Rs. 61 crores in its lifetime through sheer word of mouth. It was also a rare film in the 2010s to collect more in Week 2 than in Week 1.

Also Read: Vicky Kaushal, Kangana Ranaut and others shower love on Dhurandhar franchise; applaud Aditya Dhar and his work

In the pre-Gangs Of Wasseypur (2012) era, it was Dev D (2009) that made Anurag Kashyap a force to reckon with. It attained a cult following and 17 years after its release, it's all set to re-release in cinemas on April 24.

As per an article in Bombay Times, the Abhay Deol-Kalki Koechlin-Mahie Gill starrer will be back on the big screen, but only in select theatres. It also carried quotes of Anurag Kashyap, Abhay Deol, Kalki Koechlin and music director Amit Trivedi. Anurag said, “To see Dev D return to the big screen feels special. It’s a film meant to be experienced collectively with Amit Trivedi’s music and Rajeev Ravi’s cinematography powering the narrative. I am curious to see how the new generation responds to it.”

Kalki Koechlin revealed, “I remember being so nervous about my Hindi lines that every morning on set, I would practise all my vowels and consonants in Devanagari to get the pronunciation right. The best part about shooting the film was not knowing anything about filmmaking, because it meant I didn’t care about the camera angle or how I looked on camera.”

Interestingly, it was lead actor Abhay Deol who suggested the idea of the film to Anurag. He explained, “I remember when I would narrate the idea of Dev D, the most common reaction I got was that it was ‘too arty’ to be made. When I narrated it to Anurag, I didn’t tell him it was a contemporary treatment. I just narrated a love story. He did not guess what I was actually narrating, and when I revealed that it was a contemporary Devdas, he went quiet for 20 minutes, imagining it in his head. He loved the idea of treating it with a musical score that would take the story forward, one song at a time. Although he went with a different ending (my idea remains Dev dying in the end), my thought was to call out Devdas’ misogyny and highlight the women’s resilience. It’s my only idea that got made into a movie.”

Amit Trivedi’s career also got a boost with Dev D. He stated, “Each song was deeply rooted in the narrative, whether it was the wild energy of ‘Emosanal Attyachaar’ or the quiet ache of ‘Nayan Tarse’. When the film was released, something shifted for me and helped me find my voice as a composer.”

About Dev D Dev D was a contemporary reimagining of the classic Bengali novel Devdas by Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay and was produced by Ronnie Screwvala. While Abhay Deol played Dev, Mahie Gill essayed the role of Paro. Kalki Koechlin was launched with this film and she played Chanda. Nawazuddin Siddiqui featured in an entertaining cameo as a band singer in the song ‘Emosanal Attyachar’.

Also Read: Tanuja picks ‘director’ Aditya Dhar over Ranveer Singh as the hero of ‘Dhurandhar’; calls it a ‘landmark’ film in fun review with Tanishaa Mukerji

The Emraan Hashmi and Disha Patani led Awarapan 2 is among the keenly awaited films of 2026. A sequel to Awarapan, the film has been trending on Book My Show and Instagram as the makers had earlier announced an April 3 release. Since the shoot is still pending, we have exclusively learnt that a new release date of Awarapan 2 is locked.

Reliable sources confirm that Awarapan 2 is all set to hit the big screen during the Independence Day 2026 weekend. "Awarapan 2 has shaped up well as a musical intense love story with Emraan Hashmi, and Disha Patani. The makers were considering several release dates, and have finally decided on Independence Day weekend," the source told Bollywood Hungama.

Awarapan 2 is presently on floors, and the shoot is expected to be wrapped up by the end of April. Following two months of post-production, the makers are all set to bring it during the festive period of Independence Day.

For those unaware, Awarapan has gained a cult status over the years, with songs becoming evergreen for the cinema-going audiences. For the sequel too, the makers have recreated two songs from the original album, and they are said to be among the major highlights. Awarapan 2 is directed by Nitin Kakkar.

Also Read: REVEALED: Not Emraan Hashmi or Akshay Kumar, this actor plays Bade Sahab in Dhurandhar The Revenge

For a celebrity, watching their own film in a theatre is always a risk, as there’s the fear of being recognized by the audience, which can lead to chaos. This is especially true in single-screen cinemas. But at the same time, that’s where one gets to witness the most electric audience response. Two days ago, on April 1, R Madhavan weighed the pros and cons and took the plunge. He watched his film, Dhurandhar The Revenge, with the audience at a single-screen theatre in Mumbai. Usually, actors prefer visiting G7, aka Gaiety-Galaxy. However, R Madhavan chose Chitra Cinema in Dadar instead.

Yesterday, on April 2, film exhibitor and distributor Akshaye Rathi posted a story where the actor can be seen enjoying the film. Sometime later, he also posted a picture where R Madhavan is seen posing with Akshaye Rathi and a few more friends in the lobby of Chitra.

After the story and post were uploaded, Bollywood Hungama spoke to Akshaye Rathi. He said, “R Madhavan was keen to get a first-hand experience of how the audience was reacting to Dhurandhar The Revenge. That’s why we chose Chitra Cinema. It attracts the masses and, at the same time, its sound, picture quality and seating are top-class.”

On April 1, @ActorMadhavan secretly watched #DhurandharTheRevenge at Mumbai's Chitra Cinema with @akshayerathi and a few friends. Video Courtesy: Story uploaded by Akshaye Rathi on April 2 pic.twitter.com/XdyiYfPugM

— Fenil Seta (@fenil_seta) April 3, 2026

Akshaye continued, “We knew that if people realized R Madhavan was seated among them, it would become an issue, especially since we weren’t accompanied by any security personnel or bouncers. Hence, we entered the theatre a few minutes after the film had begun. He also wore a cap and hoodie while entering the auditorium. As expected, the staff and the patrons didn’t realize that the actor had visited the cinema hall. However, the manager was informed about his presence.”

Akshaye Rathi then said, “In the intermission, R Madhavan stepped out in the F&B area. This is when some patrons recognized him. However, the actor was quickly ushered into the manager’s cabin. He left from there only when the second half began. The actor is always more than happy to meet the fans and aam junta. But he realized that if word would spread about his presence, it would have caused issues.”

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Before the credits rolled, R Madhavan exited the theatre. His mission was successful, much like that of his character, Ajay Sanyal, in the film.

The story uploaded by Akshaye Rathi also revealed that the actor was seated in the last row of the balcony, next to the exit. This, too, was meticulously planned so that he could enter and leave without drawing anyone’s attention.

Also Read: R Madhavan reacts to the praise showered by Allu Arjun on him and Dhurandhar: The Revenge; calls it ‘super super special’ at a pivotal moment

Move over, Shah Rukh Khan. Well, almost. The Mercedes-Benz V-Class has only been on Indian roads since late March 2026, and it has already become the must-have luxury MPV for India's biggest celebrities. First, it was cricketer Hardik Pandya who snapped one up for his girlfriend Mahieka Sharma. Then Shah Rukh Khan drove home an Obsidian Black example that was spotted outside his temporary residence Puja Casa. And now, completing a hat-trick of high-profile acquisitions, Ajay Devgn has become the latest and arguably most perfectly timed celebrity to add the Rs 1.40 crore Mercedes-Benz V-Class to his garage. The occasion? His own 57th birthday on April 2. Because some men send themselves flowers, and some men send themselves a rolling German palace.

The timing could not be more fitting. On the morning of April 2, thousands of fans had already assembled outside Devgn's Juhu residence, Shivshakti, holding banners and chanting his name in scenes that made the bungalow look more like a concert venue. When the actor stepped out hands folded, smile quiet and warm it was a reminder that after 35 years and over 100 films, few stars in Hindi cinema command this kind of unfiltered public love. Later that day, the news broke that Devgn had gifted himself the V-Class, and the internet, predictably, went into overdrive. Fans noted that only Ajay Devgn could make buying a car feel like a Singham entrance.

The V-Class story in India has moved fast. Mercedes-Benz launched the luxury MPV in early March 2026 at an introductory ex-showroom price of Rs 1.40 crore the first time the model has returned to the Indian market in four years and deliveries began almost immediately. Within weeks, it had already found its way into some of the most famous garages in the country. Pandya was first off, the blocks, followed swiftly by Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan who selected the stealth Obsidian Black shade. Devgn's acquisition now cements the V-Class's status as the unofficial celebrity MPV of 2026.

And what a vehicle it is. The Mercedes-Benz V-Class Extra Long Wheelbase is marketed as a "private suite on wheels" and once you look at the feature list, the description feels entirely earned. The cabin, available in four or six-seat configurations, is built around an extraordinary rear passenger experience. Lounge seats with electrically adjustable recline, ventilation, heating, and massage functions are standard. Three-zone climate control, dual 12.3-inch screens for infotainment and instrumentation, wireless charging pads, 64-colour ambient lighting, and a 640W Burmester 15-speaker system with Dolby Atmos round out an interior that puts many hotel suites to shame.

The V-Class sits atop a 2.0-litre engine available in both petrol mild-hybrid (231 bhp) and diesel (237 bhp) guises, both mated to a 9-speed automatic gearbox. The peak torque figure of 500 Nm ensures effortless highway cruising appropriate for a vehicle that has no intention of ever being in a hurry. Safety credentials are equally robust: seven airbags, a 360-degree camera, Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, and traffic sign recognition are all standard, contributing to its five-star Euro NCAP rating.

For Devgn, the V-Class slots naturally alongside a garage that already reflects his well-established taste for powerful, authoritative vehicles. His collection includes a Mercedes-Benz GLS, a Mercedes-Benz S-Class, a Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600, an Audi Q7, and a BMW X7 a fleet built on substance and quiet command rather than flashy horsepower figures. The V-Class is, if anything, the most refined expression of that philosophy: a vehicle that says everything without raising its voice. Very Ajay Devgn, in other words.

Also Read: Ajay Devgn’s Lens Vault Studios unveils AI short film ‘Happy Birthday Joshi’ on his birthday

The much-anticipated magnum opus Ramayana has finally revealed its most crucial element — the first glimpse of Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama. Backed by filmmaker and producer Namit Malhotra and directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the two-part cinematic franchise is being mounted on a global scale, with the teaser offering audiences their first look at the iconic character.

Positioned as a landmark cinematic moment, the ‘Rama’ teaser introduces one of mythology’s most enduring figures to a worldwide audience. The film aims to present the story with a fresh perspective while retaining the emotional depth that has made it timeless across generations.

Speaking about the essence of the story, Nitesh Tiwari said, “Ramayana’s greatness lies in its emotional richness. At its heart, it is not just about good and evil, but about choices, consequences, and the weight of doing what is right. Rama’s journey is deeply human and that is what we have tried to stay true to.”

Sharing his experience of stepping into the role, Ranbir Kapoor added, “I don’t think I’m here to represent Rama. I’m here to learn from him. There is a simplicity and purity to him that is very rare; and trying to understand and imbibe that has been a deeply humbling experience.”

Producer Namit Malhotra further elaborated on the significance of the character, stating, “The power of Rama’s story is not in what he conquers, but in what he lets go of. He represents a standard that is not easy, not convenient; but necessary. He chooses duty over desire, truth over comfort, and sacrifice over self. That is why his story has endured for thousands of years, and why it continues to matter today.”

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The film boasts of a massive ensemble cast, with Yash portraying Ravana, while Sai Pallavi plays Sita, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Ravie Dubey essaying Lakshman. Apart from them, Rakul Preet Singh, Lara Dutta, Bobby Deol, among others are also expected to be a part of this venture.

Adding to its global appeal, the project brings together international heavyweights, including Oscar-winning composers Hans Zimmer and A. R. Rahman for the music. The film is produced by Prime Focus Studios in association with the eight-time Academy Award-winning VFX studio DNEG and Yash’s Monster Mind Creations.

Mounted as one of the most ambitious films in Indian cinema, Ramayana will release in two parts. The first instalment is slated for a global theatrical release during Diwali 2026, with the second part expected to follow in Diwali 2027.

Also Read: Ranbir Kapoor cites “Dharmo Rakshati Rakshitah” as he shares his approach to playing Lord Ram in Ramayana: “My Dharma is to do my job”

A major collaboration is taking shape in Indian cinema as Salman Khan teams up with filmmaker Vamshi Paidipally for the first time in a film produced by noted South producer Dil Raju. The yet-untitled project has already generated significant buzz, especially after the recent announcement of Nayanthara as the female lead. The film marks her first collaboration with Salman Khan and her second Hindi outing after Jawan alongside Shah Rukh Khan.

The casting momentum continues, with reports suggesting that Arvind Swamy is likely to join the ensemble. Known for his iconic roles in films like Roja and Bombay, Swamy is expected to play a key role in the film. While initial speculation hinted at him taking on an antagonist’s part, reports clarify that his character will instead be portrayed in a positive light, steering clear of negative shades.

Interestingly, the makers are still on the lookout for a strong antagonist to face Salman Khan on screen, indicating that a major casting announcement could be on the horizon. Additionally, there are ongoing discussions with Anil Kapoor for an important role, although details regarding his character remain tightly under wraps.

Providing insight into the film’s timeline, a source told Bollywood Hungama, "Salman Khan is in talks with Dil Raju and Vamshi Padilpally to plan their schedules in a way that an Eid 2027 release becomes a reality. The producer - director duo is contemplating the option, and plan to get back to Salman with a plan soon."

The source further informs that the film in question is an action-packed entertainer with a strong emotional core.

"It's a pure commercial entertainer with Salman Khan playing to the gallery. Vamshi plans to present Salman in a way audiences like to see him. The pre-production is going on in full swing, and the makers aim to take the film on floors in April," the source added.

The film is expected to go on floors in April and will be shot extensively across multiple locations in India. With substantial VFX work also involved, the team is currently focusing on locking all aspects before making an official announcement. While several details are still under wraps, the makers are committed to bringing the film to theatres in the first half of 2027, with an Eid release firmly in consideration.

Also Read: It’s Official! Salman Khan joins hands with Nayanthara for the first time for Vamshi Paidipally’s next

One major disadvantage of social media is that it can become a tool for spreading fake news. This mostly happens through memes and image posts that go viral and are considered the Gospel Truth. There are times when a celebrity is attributed with a quote he or she never said in memes. The same is happening with John Abraham right now.

Since recent times, a meme where John has been quoted criticizing Dhurandhar has gone viral in no time. It quotes the actor saying, “Movies like Dhurandhar and The Kashmir Files can sometimes lead people in the wrong direction, and it’s scary to see them being welcomed by so many. I would never produce films like that.”

Once the post got viral, the supporters of Dhurandhar have been slamming John while those who are against the movie are hailing him for showing guts to speak his mind.

However, the truth is that John hasn’t made any such comment against Dhurandhar. In fact, he hasn’t said anything about Dhurandhar in the media or any public space. If you search for his statement on the internet, you won’t find a single news publication to have reported this. Apart from memes on various social media pages, you won’t find this comment anywhere. It is clear that this meme is created by someone who wanted to make a post viral or maybe malign Dhurandhar.

Just imagine – in case John had slammed Dhurandhar in real, almost every news publication would have carried the quote as breaking news. Which publication would not want to capitalize on such a comment?

One needs to note that last year in August in an interview with veteran journalist Rajdeep Sardesai on India Today, John did say that he would never produce films like The Kashmir Files and Chhaava and expressed his concern on these films finding mass acceptance. At that time, his comment had gone viral and was covered by a number of publications.

But there is no instance where he has spoken against Dhurandhar. In fact, these comments were made four months before the first Dhurandhar released.

Also Read: Rs. 1240 cr, Rs. 1310 cr or Rs. 1400 cr: where will Dhurandhar 2 finally land?

Following public outrage over images of a captive elephant painted bright pink for a photoshoot in Rajasthan, Anupamaa star and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India supporter Rupali Ganguly who officially joined the Bharatiya Janata Party in 2024 has written to Honourable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi ji, urging an end to elephant rides and encouraging the use of robot elephants and other non-animal means instead of animal performances. In her letter, Ganguly mourns Chanchal, the elephant featured in the photoshoot, who is reported to have died, and expresses her shared respect for wildlife with the Prime Minister.

Ganguly notes that the owner quoted in news reports — Saddik/Shadik Khan — is also associated with Malti, an elephant who was used for rides at Amer Fort, violently beaten and later transferred to a sanctuary after efforts by PETA India. She stresses that while the photoshoot shocked the public, elephants used for rides at sites such as Amer Fort are routinely kept chained when not in use and controlled using weapons, conditions that can cause severe physical and psychological distress.

“This incident has upset people across India and beyond, reflecting how strongly the public now feels against elephant exploitation,” Ganguly wrote. She appealed, “On World Wildlife Day, you shared the importance of wildlife protection. It is in this spirit, I respectfully urge that India end all elephant rides as Indonesia has now done, and that robotic elephants, decorated electric vehicles, and other non-animal alternatives be encouraged for use to protect our national heritage animal from use in cruel spectacles.”

PETA India notes that frustrated elephants forced into close contact with humans can become unpredictable, and attacks involving elephants used for rides and other performances are regular occurrences. For elephant and human welfare, the Kerala Tourism Department is promoting a mechanical elephant safari experience at Thamboormozhi Butterfly Garden near the iconic Athirapilly waterfalls, instead of a live elephant.

Also Read: Actress-turned-politician Rupali Ganguly writes letter to West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee to stop horse-drawn carriages: Reports 

Actor Akshay Kumar visited the Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain on April 1 along with his mother-in-law and veteran actor Dimple Kapadia. The visit comes days ahead of the release of his upcoming film Bhooth Bangla.

After offering prayers at the temple, Akshay spoke about the significance of the visit and shared that he prayed not only for his family but also for the country. He said, “It was really good...I prayed for the entire country and my family. I prayed that may our country always excel and progress.”

#WATCH | Madhya Pradesh: Actor Akshay Kumar, along with his mother-in-law and veteran actor Dimple Kapadia, visited Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain and offered prayers today. pic.twitter.com/Q21mMHWmZy — ANI (@ANI) April 1, 2026

#WATCH | Ujjain, MP: After the prayers, actor Akshay Kumar says, "It was really good...I prayed for the entire country and my family. I prayed that may our country always excel and progress." https://t.co/xUwoYsIfWl pic.twitter.com/rpZMgroK1E — ANI (@ANI) April 1, 2026

Visit comes ahead of Bhooth Bangla release Akshay’s visit to the Mahakaleshwar Temple takes place shortly before the theatrical release of Bhooth Bangla, which marks his reunion with director Priyadarshan after several successful collaborations in the past.

The film is scheduled to release on April 17 after its earlier release date of April 10 was revised. The change in schedule came amid strong theatrical buzz surrounding Dhurandhar The Revenge, prompting the makers to push the release slightly.

Apart from Akshay Kumar, the film also stars Wamiqa Gabbi, Tabu, Rajpal Yadav, Paresh Rawal and late actor Asrani in key roles. Akshay Kumar’s long-standing devotion to Lord Shiva Akshay Kumar has often spoken publicly about his devotion to Lord Shiva. In February last year, he released the devotional track ‘Mahakal Chalo,’ which reflected his spiritual connection with Mahakal. The actor has also portrayed Lord Shiva on screen in films such as Oh My God 2 and Kannappa, further highlighting his association with the deity in his cinematic work as well.

Also Read: Ahmed Khan reveals ambitious new plan for Akshay Kumar starrer Welcome To The Jungle; shift grand sets to Mumbai

Actor Mona Singh says the phrase “Mona Ka Magic,” often used by audiences to describe her screen presence, comes from years of building trust through honest performances and carefully chosen roles. Speaking at the India Today conclave, the actor reflected on what the label means to her after more than two decades in the industry. She said she believes her connection with viewers has grown from her willingness to prioritise authenticity over glamour on screen.

“I honestly feel that I’ve managed to build a two-decade-long bridge of trust with the viewers. So it’s also my approach of being the anti-diva on screen. I’m ready, I’m willing to look raw, I’m willing to look fatigued and tired, and whatever the character demands,” she said.

“I’m ready to look raw, fatigued or tired—whatever the character demands. That honesty gives a gut punch that feels stronger than something overly scripted,” she explained. Choosing stories that stay with audiences Singh also spoke about how her project choices have shaped her reputation. According to her, she has consistently tried to balance commercial storytelling with narratives that spark discussion.

“Most of the projects I’ve picked are not only commercially viable but also conversation starters,” she said, suggesting that this balance may be one reason audiences associate her work with the phrase “Mona Ka Magic.”

Her recent and upcoming slate reflects that direction. The actor is set to appear in projects including Happy Patel, Border 2, Kohrra Season 2, and Subedaar. Across genres and formats, Singh’s selections continue to emphasise character-driven storytelling rather than conventional screen positioning.

Also Read: Maa Ka Sum trailer introduces Mihir Ahuja as math prodigy on mission to find love for his mother, played by Mona Singh

Acclaimed Hollywood filmmaker Zack Snyder has praised Indian actor Huma Qureshi, describing her as “one of the most amazing actors” he has worked with. The filmmaker shared the appreciation on social media while revisiting their collaboration on Army of the Dead.

Taking to Instagram, Snyder posted a still of Qureshi from the film and wrote that she brought “talent, presence, and pure brilliance on screen,” recalling his experience working with her on the 2021 zombie heist drama. The actor, who played Geeta Ranjan in the film, responded warmly in the comments, writing, “You the best… boss man.”

Filmmaker-choreographer Farah Khan also reacted to the post with an enthusiastic response, while actor Saqib Saleem joined in congratulating Qureshi.

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Huma Qureshi’s Hollywood debut with Army of the Dead Directed by Snyder, Army of the Dead marked Qureshi’s Hollywood debut. The film featured an ensemble cast including Dave Bautista, Ella Purnell, Omari Hardwick, Ana de la Reguera, Theo Rossi, Matthias Schweighöfer, Nora Arnezeder, Hiroyuki Sanada, Tig Notaro, Raúl Castillo and Garret Dillahunt.

Set in a zombie-infested Las Vegas, the film follows a group of mercenaries attempting a high-risk casino heist during a post-apocalyptic outbreak. Snyder conceived the project as a spiritual successor to his 2004 directorial debut, Dawn of the Dead. Upcoming projects: Huma Qureshi set for Toxic On the work front, Qureshi will next be seen in Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups, headlined by Yash and directed by Geetu Mohandas. The film also features Kiara Advani, Nayanthara, Rukmini Vasanth and Tara Sutaria. Shot simultaneously in Kannada and English, the film is set in 1980s Goa and revolves around a powerful drug cartel operating beneath the region’s picturesque exterior.

Qureshi’s recent releases include Maharani Season 4 and Delhi Crime Season 3.

Also Read: Red Lorry Film Festival 2026: Huma Qureshi-starrer Bayaan director questions lack of support for female-led stories: “To all those women in positions of power, why don’t they support such a story? Ek certain female-led films se kya pareshaani hai?”

There may soon be a new creative force emerging from the illustrious Roshan family. Hrithik Roshan’s younger son, Hridaan Roshan, has taken his first step toward a career in cinema by enrolling in a filmmaking course in the United States.

The 17-year-old will be studying film and television production at the prestigious University of Southern California, a globally renowned institution known for shaping some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. The news was shared by his alma mater, the American School of Bombay, on Instagram.

Sharing a picture of Hridaan alongside the USC logo, the school wrote, “It’s no surprise to us that we’ll C Hridaan at USC studying film and TV production! Congratulations Hridaan, we are so proud.” The announcement was met with an outpouring of love from friends and family, including cousin Fizaa Ali, who cheered him on in the comments.

Hridaan is the younger son of Hrithik Roshan and his former wife Sussanne Khan. He comes from a lineage deeply rooted in the film industry—his grandfather Rakesh Roshan is a celebrated actor-filmmaker, while his maternal grandfather Sanjay Khan is also a prominent name in Indian cinema.

Interestingly, Hrithik himself is set to step behind the camera soon, with plans to direct the next installment of the popular Krrish franchise. With Hridaan now formally training in filmmaking, speculation is already rife about whether he will carry forward the family’s cinematic legacy.

While it remains to be seen what path Hridaan ultimately chooses, his decision to study filmmaking at such a reputed institution certainly signals a strong inclination toward storytelling and cinema—perhaps hinting that the Roshan legacy is set to continue into the next generation.

Also Read: Hrithik Roshan and Sussanne Khan come together for family picture to celebrate Hridaan’s 14th birthday

Bollywood Hungama was among the first to inform readers that the Akshay Kumar-starrer Bhooth Bangla, scheduled to release on April 10, might be delayed and arrive in cinemas on April 17. The suspense over its release date continues, as the makers have yet to make an official announcement. Moreover, the trailer, which was initially expected on March 27 and later rescheduled for March 30, has not been unveiled. This has only further fuelled speculation that the horror-comedy has indeed been pushed ahead. Meanwhile, Bollywood Hungama has now learned about the film’s run time.

A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “Bhooth Bangla is around 2 hours and 50 minutes long. After the censor process, the run time may reduce or increase by a few minutes. The exact duration will be known closer to the release date, but as of now, it is said to be around 170 minutes.”

If Bhooth Bangla indeed ends up with a run time of 2 hours and 50 minutes, it will be among Akshay Kumar’s longest films in the last 12 years. In this period, most of his films have had shorter durations, usually under 150 minutes. The last Akshay Kumar starrer with a similar run time was Holiday – A Soldier Is Never Off Duty (2014), which was also 2 hours and 50 minutes long.

After the A R Murugadoss-directed action entertainer, only 11 Akshay Kumar films have had run times of 2 hours and 30 minutes or more – Baby (2015; 2 hours and 39 minutes), Brothers (2015; 2 hours and 38 minutes), Rustom (2016; 2 hours and 30 minutes), Toilet - Ek Prem Katha (2017; 2 hours and 41 minutes), Gold (2018; 2 hours and 33 minutes), Kesari (2019; 2 hours and 30 minutes), OMG 2 (2023; 2 hours and 36 minutes), Bade Miyan Chote Miyan (2014; 2 hours and 38 minutes), Sarfira (2024; 2 hours and 35 minutes), Housefull 5 (2025; 2 hours and 45 minutes) and Jolly LLB 3 (2025; 2 hours and 37 minutes).

Last year, Akshay Kumar was also seen in Kannappa (2025), which was 3 hours and 3 minutes long. However, it hasn’t been added to the aforementioned list as it was a Telugu film and featured Akshay in a special appearance.

Also Read: Was Bhooth Bangla originally planned as Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2? Priyadarshan BREAKS SILENCE

Composer-singer Vishal Dadlani is being hounded for no reason except that he spoke to a Pakistani journalist. A recent controversial video shows Dadlani interacting with Pakistani journalist Safina Khan in London.

Safina Khan is notorious for openly expressing anti-India views.

Enraged netizens are demanding that Dadlani be removed from the panel of judges on the popular music content show Indian Idol. Dadlani has served as judge on Indian Idol for years now.

Whether the parent channel Sony TV will succumb to overzealous nationalistic pressures, or wait for the storm to pass, remains to be seen.

Also Read: Vishal Dadlani takes indirect dig at Dhurandhar The Revenge over demonetisation portrayal: “A film is just entertainment. Facts are facts”

With audiences at live concerts in Delhi for musicians like Badshah and Yo Yo Honey Singh turning increasingly unruly, the musical malaise has now moved South to Hyderabad.

At a concert in Hyderabad at Kingdome Klub & Kitchen on Saturday March 28, singer-performer Arpit Bala, who gained some popularity with his song ‘Bargad’ in 2025, was targeted during his performance with an empty bottle by an unruly member of the audience.

Bala hit right back.

He angrily asked who threw the bottle After identifying the culprit, Bala spat at the fan as the crowd cheered loudly. Arpit Bala spitting on crowd by u/Potential_Let226 in IndianHipHopHeads

Warning the audience not to repeat such acts, he added, “Mujhe farak nahi padega ki tumne kitne paise diye hain... (I don’t care how much you spent),” and continued his performance.

The incident highlights the growing uneasy equation between performers and the audience at live concerts in India. They are no longer safe or even enjoyable for family audiences as stampedes and spats break out routinely at these concerts.

In February 2024, it was announced that Drishyam is all set to have remakes in foreign languages. This huge development was confirmed by Kumar Mangat Pathak and Abhishek Pathak, who acquired the international remake rights to Drishyam 1 and 2 from the original producers, Aashirvad Cinemas. At the time, it was revealed that remakes in the USA and Korea were already in the works, while the deal for the Spanish version was being finalized. Almost two years later, it has now come to light that the Spanish remake of Drishyam is all set to go on floors in a few months from now.

As per a report in Bombay Times, Rodrigo Espinel, who will produce Drishyam’s Spanish remake, confirmed at the ongoing International Film Festival of Delhi that the shoot of the film will commence in June. He said, “It’s an interesting story because my partner is a Mexican producer who bought the IP rights, and he called us because Spain has wonderful tax incentives. The concept can be adapted perfectly to Spanish culture. So, we have now started working on it, and we are going to start shooting next June. It has a Spanish director and a top Spanish cast.”

Rodrigo Espinel was asked why he feels that Drishyam’s remake would work for the Spanish audience. He explained, “In the end, it is the story of a father who tries to protect his daughter, and a mother who tries to find where her son is, so it becomes easy to adapt. I think as a producer, if you try to adapt a very local movie, it’s difficult. Even if we adapt the story, the soul of the film is lost. In this case, even though it is a very Indian movie, it’s easy to adapt and connect with our audience.”

About Drishyam

Drishyam (2015) was the official remake of the 2013 Mohanlal-starrer of the same name and stars Ajay Devgn, Tabu, Shriya Saran, Ishita Dutta and others. Directed by Nishikant Kamat, it was the story of an illiterate father who goes to insane lengths to protect his wife and daughter after they mistakenly kill a sexual predator. The deceased was the son of a menacing police officer, which further complicated the matter.

Drishyam was a success and its sequel, Drishyam 2 (2022), was a surprise blockbuster. The original cast returned for the sequel and they were joined by Akshaye Khanna. The second part was directed by Abhishek Pathak, who has also directed Drishyam 3, which will release this year on October 2. While Akshaye Khanna won’t be seen in Drishyam 3, Jaideep Ahlawat and Prakash Raj have come on board this time.

Meanwhile, the original Malayalam version’s second part, Drishyam 2, was released in 2021. The third part will arrive in cinemas this year, on May 21.

Also Read: Drishyam 2 set for theatrical release on April 10 ahead of Drishyam 3 release in May

Actor Sonam Kapoor Ahuja and her husband Anand Ahuja have welcomed their second child, a baby boy, on March 29, 2026. The couple took to Instagram on Sunday to share the happy news with their followers and well-wishers.

The heartfelt message read, “With immense gratitude and hearts full of love, we are delighted to announce the arrival of our baby boy today, 29th of March 2026. Our family has grown, and with his arrival, our hearts have expanded in the most beautiful way. Vayu is overjoyed to welcome his little brother, and we feel deeply blessed by this precious new life who has filled our home with happiness and grace. We are grateful to begin this beautiful new chapter as a family of four”. They signed off by saying, “With love, Sonam, Anand & Vayu”.

Soon after the announcement, several members of the film industry flooded the comments section with congratulatory messages, including Kareena Kapoor Khan, Kajol, Bipasha Basu, Dia Mirza, Parineeti Chopra, Zoya Akhtar, Kajal Aggarwal, Huma Qureshi, Vaani Kapoor, and Richa Chadha, among others.

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For the unversed, Sonam and Anand’s relationship dates back to 2015, when they first connected through common friends. What began as a long-distance romance between Mumbai and London soon evolved into a strong partnership, culminating in their marriage on May 8, 2018, in a traditional Sikh ceremony in Mumbai, followed by a grand reception. The couple embraced parenthood for the first time in August 2022 with the birth of their son, Vayu Kapoor Ahuja.

On the work front, Sonam Kapoor Ahuja was last seen in Blind (2023), a remake of a 2011 Korean film of the same name. While she continues to make a strong presence on the fashion circuit, the actress is yet to announce her upcoming film projects.

Also Read: Sonam Kapoor drops posts about her baby shower: From her ethereal look to sacred and traditional ceremony, it was a celebration wrapped in love

Ever since the makers of Dacoit announced ‘Touch Buddy’, a song featuring Pawan Singh, Adivi Sesh and Jonita Gandhi, fans knew they were in for a power-packed musical treat. The recently released teaser only amplified the buzz, adding a whole new level of hype to the high-energy track. Finally, the makers have dropped this banger, with Pawan Singh and Jonita lending their vocals to the much-awaited song. The song was shot in Telugu as well as Hindi.

Sung by the powerful duo Pawan Singh and Jonita Gandhi, the fiery lyrics are penned by Vayu Shrivastava, with music composed by Bheems Ceciroleo. Adding a touch of his own signature swag. Adivi Sesh will be seen shaking a leg alongside Pawan Singh and Jonita Gandhi, with the trio lighting up the screen with their moves, making ‘Touch Buddy’ the dance number of the season.

Speaking about the song, Bhojpuri King Pawan Singh shared, “I love experimenting with my music, and when Adivi Sesh came to me with the idea, I instantly knew the kind of energy I wanted to bring to this intense and action-packed film. I’m really excited to collaborate with such incredible talents like Sesh and Jonita Gandhi. We thoroughly enjoyed shooting for the song, and I’m sure the audience will feel that same energy.”

Jonita shared, “Recording ‘Touch Buddy’ in both Telugu and Hindi was a really enjoyable experience. It was exciting to collaborate with someone as iconic as Pawan Singh, and working with Adivi Sesh and the team made the entire process super special. I’m grateful to the whole team for making me feel so comfortable throughout. Stepping in front of the camera and dancing for the song - that’s a first for me for any film so far. I hope the audience enjoys the song as much as we enjoyed creating it.”

Marking Shaneil Deo’s directorial debut, this ambitious project, which is shot in Hindi as well Telugu, is produced by Supriya Yarlagadda, co-produced by Suniel Narang, and presented by Annapurna Studios. Shot simultaneously in Hindi and Telugu, the film’s story and screenplay have been jointly crafted by Adivi Sesh and Shaneil Deo. Dacoit is gearing up for a grand Pan-India theatrical release for April 10, 2026.

Also Read: Adivi Sesh meets Japanese fan who flew to Hyderabad dressed like him to wish him for Dacoit

Prime Video, one of India’s most loved entertainment destination, today, celebrated Vijay Varma’s birthday by announcing April 17 as the worldwide premiere date of his upcoming Prime Original drama Matka King. Created and written by Abhay Koranne and created and directed by Nagraj Popatrao Manjule, the series is set in the fast-changing Bombay of the 1960s and traces the fictional journey of an enterprising cotton trader who creates a new gambling system, dubbed ‘Matka’, turning an elite pastime into a nationwide phenomenon.

The series is produced by Siddharth Roy Kapur, Nagraj Popatrao Manjule, Gargi Kulkarni, Ashwini Sidwani, and Ashish Aryan, under the banners of Roy Kapur Films, Aatpat, and SMR Productions. Matka King features Vijay Varma, Kritika Kamra, Sai Tamhankar, Siddharth Jadhav, Bhupendra Jadawat, and Gulshan Grover in lead roles along with Vineet Kumar Singh, Bharat Jadhav, Girish Kulkarni, Jamie Lever, Kishor Kadam, Cyrus Sahukar, Arpita Sethia, Sambhaji Tangade, Ishtiyak Khan, Sanjivv Jotangia, and Simran Ashwini in pivotal roles. The series is set to premiere exclusively on Prime Video, in India and across 240 countries and territories worldwide on April 17.

Matka King follows Brij Bhatti, a sharp-minded and enterprising cotton trader, played by Vijay Varma, who navigates the fast-changing landscape of 1960s Bombay in pursuit of legitimacy and respect. Set against a world of bustling markets, crowded chawls, and shifting power dynamics, what begins as an ambitious idea soon takes on a life of its own, drawing in people across social strata. As aspirations grow and stakes rise, the series unfolds into a gripping narrative shaped by ambition, power, and belonging.

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“Matka King is a gripping story of one man’s journey to succeed against all odds in a changing world, told in a way that will surprise audiences,” said Nikhil Madhok, director & head of Originals, Prime Video, India. “The tale of Brij Bhatti’s rise as the Mata King is equal parts fascinating and cautionary. We are thrilled to have partnered with Roy Kapur Films, Aatpat, and SMR Productions to bring this bold story to viewers worldwide on April 17.”

Siddharth Roy Kapur, co-producer for Matka King, shared, “What drew us to Matka King was the scale and uniqueness of the world it is set in, and the story of an individual navigating ambition, identity, and the pursuit of respect in a rapidly evolving society. It is a narrative rooted in a specific time and place, yet universally relatable in its exploration of human aspirations and choices. Combining forces with Nagraj Popatrao Manjule, whose extraordinary work I have always admired has been extremely rewarding. And the talented Abhay Koranne, who we have successfully collaborated with before, has brought a distinct creative vision and authenticity to the storytelling. With a stellar ensemble led by Vijay Varma, Kritika Kamra, and Gulshan Grover, the series is brought to life with remarkable depth and nuance. We are delighted to deepen our collaboration with Prime Video on this ambitious project and look forward to bringing Matka King to audiences starting April 17, only on Prime Video.”

Also Read: Sunny Deol and Vijay Varma likely to team up for high-intensity action drama