Indus Chronicles

Netflix has officially announced Ikka, an upcoming courtroom thriller headlined by Sunny Deol and Akshaye Khanna. Directed by Siddharth P. Malhotra, the film is set to premiere on the streaming platform on July 10 and marks Sunny Deol’s first-ever Netflix original film.

The legal drama brings together Sunny Deol and Akshaye Khanna for a gripping face-off, reuniting the two actors on screen after decades. Set against the backdrop of a high-stakes courtroom battle, Ikka explores themes of justice, morality, family, and the consequences of choices made in the past.

At the heart of the story is a celebrated lawyer, played by Sunny Deol, who is compelled to defend a man from his past, portrayed by Akshaye Khanna. The unexpected return of this individual forces him to confront unresolved wounds while taking on a case that challenges his deepest convictions. As personal loyalties and professional responsibilities collide, the lawyer finds himself navigating a battle where every decision comes at a price.

The film also features acclaimed actors Tillotama Shome and Dia Mirza in significant roles. While Tillotama essays a determined public prosecutor committed to securing justice, Dia portrays a wife and mother striving to keep her family together amid growing uncertainty and emotional turmoil.

Speaking about the project, Monika Shergill, Vice President, Content, Netflix India said, “IKKA brings together everything audiences love about a great courtroom drama: high stakes, moral complexity and emotional conflict. Directed by Siddharth P. Malhotra, the film explores justice, truth and accountability through a gripping narrative that keeps audiences guessing until the very end, with layered characters, unexpected turns and moral questions that linger long after the verdict. The film also marks a landmark moment for us as Sunny Deol makes his Netflix film debut, returning to the courtroom as a lawyer more than three decades after his iconic turn in the genre. Joining him for an on-screen reunion, the immensely talented Akshaye Khanna makes for the perfect counterpart in what promises to be a riveting battle of wits. With Tillotama Shome and Dia Mirza in key roles, the film brings together exceptional talent in service of a story that is both deeply rooted in its context and universally resonant — the kind of storytelling we are proud to bring to audiences on Netflix.”

Produced by Alchemy Films, IKKA marks another collaboration between director Siddharth P. Malhotra and Netflix following the success of Maharaj. The filmmaker revealed that the project has been close to his heart for several years.

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Speaking about the film, Siddharth P. Malhotra shared, “As a storyteller, I'm always looking for stories that challenge me emotionally and creatively, and IKKA has been one such journey. I've always been a huge fan of courtroom dramas, and this is a subject that has been incredibly close to my heart for many years. In fact, it was one of the first stories I ever wanted to bring to the screen. What drew me to IKKA was the opportunity to tell a courtroom story that focuses as much on personal relationships and emotional dilemmas as it does on the pursuit of justice. To finally tell this story with a cast of the calibre of Sunny Deol, Akshaye Khanna, Dia Mirza and Tillotama Shome feels truly special. Having Sunny Deol step into the role of a lawyer, a character space audience have so loved him in, alongside such phenomenal performers, felt like everything coming together at the right time. After the incredible journey of Maharaj, it has been wonderful to collaborate with Netflix once again on a film that is deeply emotional, character-driven and rooted in powerful storytelling.”

With impossible choices, shifting alliances, emotional conflicts, and a courtroom battle that extends far beyond legal arguments, Ikka promises an intense viewing experience. The film will begin streaming exclusively on Netflix from July 10.

Also Read: Akshaye Khanna to be seen back-to-back as villain as Ikka is scheduled to release before Mahakali

The Delhi High Court on Friday issued notices to the makers of Kala Hiran: The Battle for Legacy after superstar Salman Khan approached the court seeking to stop the film’s release. Justice Neena Bansal Krishna directed notices to be served to producer Amit Jani, Jani FireFox Films, director Bharat Shrinate, casting director Akshay Pandey, and other concerned parties. The matter has now been scheduled for further hearing on June 19.

Representing Salman Khan, advocate Nizam Pasha informed the court that a promotional poster released on May 29 featured a character bearing a strong resemblance to the actor. He pointed out that the individual in the poster was also shown wearing a bracelet similar to the one widely associated with Khan. According to the counsel, the film allegedly breaches a Delhi High Court order dated December 11, 2025, which safeguarded the actor’s personality rights.

During the proceedings, Pasha reiterated that the project was in violation of the earlier judicial order protecting Khan’s identity and associated attributes. The court was further informed that although the makers had not officially announced a release date for the film, its trailer was launched on Friday, despite earlier indications that it would be unveiled on June 20.

Referring to the legal issues connected to the blackbuck poaching case, Pasha stated before the court that the matters remain pending adjudication. He noted that four FIRs had been registered in connection with the case, adding that Khan had already been acquitted in three of them, while a Special Leave Petition (SLP) was pending in the remaining matter without any operative order being passed. The counsel argued that the filmmakers were attempting to commercially benefit from Khan’s identity and sought an injunction restraining the film’s release.

When the court sought clarification regarding the film’s release plans, Khan’s legal team submitted that no official release date had been declared by the producers.

In his plea, the actor asserted that the film’s promotional materials contained clear references to him. The application stated that the character showcased in the publicity content closely resembled Khan and was seen wearing a bracelet that is instantly recognizable as one of his most distinctive personal identifiers.

Khan has maintained that the unauthorized use of his likeness, image, and identifiable characteristics amounts to a violation of his personality rights and legal protections.

Also Read: Salman Khan moves Delhi High Court against Kala Hiran makers; seeks halt over alleged violation of personality rights

The controversy surrounding Ranveer Singh's exit from Don 3 continues to generate discussion within the film industry. Although the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) later withdrew its non-cooperation directive against the actor, the matter remains a talking point. Now, FWICE chief adviser Ashoke Pandit has shared details about the events that led to the federation's involvement. He also claimed that several prominent industry members, including Aamir Khan, attempted to resolve the issue before it reached FWICE.

Speaking to Hindi Rush, Ashoke stated that a producer and director approached the federation with a complaint regarding the project. According to him, the filmmakers informed FWICE that they had already invested approximately Rs 45 crores in pre-production and were preparing to begin filming.

Ashoke alleged that the lead actor exited the project just weeks before shooting was scheduled to commence. He further claimed that FWICE followed its standard procedure by contacting Ranveer Singh to hear his side of the matter. However, according to Ashoke, the federation did not receive a response from the actor. "We kept sending reminders for one-and-a-half months," Ashoke said, adding that no reply was received during that period.

He stated that FWICE subsequently reviewed documents and reports submitted by Ranveer's auditors. According to Ashoke, on the day the federation was preparing to announce the non-cooperation directive, it received an email informing them that two representatives from the actor's team would meet them.

Ashoke said the federation considered the matter serious and decided to proceed with the directive. However, he clarified that FWICE never imposed a ban on the actor.

He stressed that accountability should apply to everyone working in the film industry.

According to Ashoke, no individual, whether an actor, director, assistant director, cinematographer or spot boy, should be able to walk away from a committed project at the last moment without consequences.

He also revealed that efforts had been made within the industry to resolve the matter before it escalated. "Many people from the industry, including Aamir Khan, had been trying to resolve the issue before it came to us. That also didn’t work. Today it’s Ranveer Singh. Tomorrow it could be someone else. This is what Excel is going through. If it was someone else, they would have gone to hell. They would have sold their house. You may have ten valid reasons for not doing a film. But if money has been spent because you committed to the project, then those losses should be reimbursed," Ashoke said.

The remarks have once again brought attention to the circumstances surrounding Don 3 and the broader debate about commitments, accountability and financial losses associated with large-scale film productions.

Also Read: Ashoke Pandit reacts to the shocking confession of Shilpa Shinde; says “False allegations can destroy a person’s reputation”

Saiee M Manjrekar is stepping into a completely new and emotionally intense space with her upcoming film Ikaai opposite Raghav Juyal. The actress, who has steadily built a reputation for balancing mainstream entertainers with performance-driven roles, reveals that the film has been one of the most demanding experiences of her career so far.

Talking about the experience, Saiee M Manjrekar shared, “Ikaai has definitely been one of the most challenging films I’ve worked on till date because it demanded so much from me emotionally and psychologically. There were moments during the process where I genuinely had to push myself beyond my comfort zone because the emotions required for certain scenes were extremely raw and intense.”

She further added, “As an actor, you always want to challenge yourself and discover parts of your craft that you haven’t explored before, and this film allowed me to do exactly that. It was exhausting at times, but also incredibly fulfilling because those are the experiences that help you grow as a performer.”

Saiee also emphasized how the film changed her understanding of performance and emotional preparation. “I learned that sometimes silence, vulnerability, and emotional stillness can be far more powerful than dramatic expression. The film constantly keeps the characters emotionally exposed, and that honesty is what makes the horror feel real. I genuinely feel audiences will get to see a completely different side of me in Ikaai, and that’s what excites me the most.”

With Ikaai, Saiee M Manjrekar continues to push creative boundaries, embracing a genre and character space that promises to showcase her in a never-seen-before avatar. The movie is produced by Vikas Bahl, directed by Raj Singh Chaudhary is currently undergoing production and is expected to release early next year.

Also Read: Saiee Manjrekar on father Mahesh Manjrekar, “He has always been my biggest inspiration, but never my shortcut”

The Bombay High Court on Thursday observed that access to social media does not give individuals the right to publish content that may defame others, whether they are private citizens or public figures. The observation came during the hearing of a dispute involving actor Salman Khan and his neighbour, Ketan Kakkad, over a property matter in Panvel.

A single-judge bench of Justice Sharmila Deshmukh was hearing an appeal filed by Salman Khan. The actor has challenged a civil court order that refused to grant him interim relief in a defamation suit against Kakkad.

During the proceedings, the Court indicated that parties should avoid taking their disputes to social media platforms and instead seek remedies through appropriate legal forums. The Court also suggested that Kakkad consider removing tweets and YouTube videos related to the dispute. The Bench expressed concern over the continued circulation of such content online. It observed that valuable judicial time should not be spent examining whether such videos should remain available on the internet.

The Court further noted that even if the content had been uploaded by third parties, steps could be taken through intermediaries to have it removed. The matter has now been posted for further hearing on July 6.

The dispute relates to adjoining properties in Panvel, where Salman Khan owns a farmhouse. Kakkad has alleged that Khan violated environmental norms and blocked access to his property. He has also claimed that he approached authorities regarding the issue but no action was taken.

Following this, Kakkad posted tweets and participated in YouTube interviews discussing the dispute. Salman Khan subsequently filed a defamation suit against these statements. According to Khan, the posts and videos shared by Kakkad are defamatory and communally provocative.

It was submitted before the Court that the videos contained false, speculative and inflammatory material. The submissions also stated that the content included references allegedly intended to provoke communal sentiments against the actor.

The Court was informed that the content had received significant online engagement and viewership. The defamation suit also names several social media platforms as parties, including Facebook, X, Google and YouTube.

Khan has claimed that Kakkad's allegations emerged after authorities cancelled a proposed land transaction involving a plot adjacent to his farmhouse on the grounds of illegality. According to Khan, Kakkad then began making allegations that the cancellation had been orchestrated by Khan and his family.

Kakkad has opposed the defamation suit. He has argued that his statements are based on facts concerning Khan's property and do not amount to defamation. It has also been contended that Khan, being a public figure, has already placed details of his property in the public domain.

Also Read: Ormax data exposes Bollywood’s succession CRISIS: Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Akshay Kumar, Hrithik Roshan, Ranbir Kapoor dominate, but Hindi cinema hasn’t built its next superstar generation

Veteran television and film actor Dinyar Tirandaz has reportedly passed away in Mumbai on June 11, 2026. The news of his demise has left members of the entertainment industry and fans saddened, as they remember the actor for his remarkable body of work and memorable performances across television and cinema.

The news first surfaced on social media through a post shared by the Facebook group "Parsi Zoroastrians Worldwide - The Hyderabadi Page." The post stated, "Mr Dinyar Tirandaz brother of Late Rustom Tirandaz has left for his heavenly abode. Paidust today at Wadia Bungli, Bombay, at 3:45 pm. Sarosh Yazad Ni Panah. Ashem Vohu."

Soon after, the information was widely shared by several social media pages, prompting an outpouring of condolences from admirers, colleagues and members of the Parsi community. According to the Facebook post, Tirandaz passed away at 3:45 pm at Wadia Bungli in Mumbai. At the time of writing, the cause of his death has not been officially disclosed.

Dinyar Tirandaz was a familiar face to Indian audiences and enjoyed a career that spanned several decades. He made his acting debut in 1984 with the film Duniya and gradually built a reputation as a versatile performer. His ability to bring warmth, humour and authenticity to his roles made him a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

On television, Tirandaz became widely recognised through popular shows such as Nukkad and Byomkesh Bakshi. However, one of the most defining moments of his career came with his portrayal of Mr. Keki Daruwala in the hit sitcom Zabaan Sambhal Ke. The character remains one of the most memorable portrayals in Indian television history and continues to be fondly remembered by viewers even today.

Apart from television, Tirandaz also featured in several Hindi films over the years. His filmography included notable titles such as Hello Brother, Kya Kehna, Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahin, Albela, Chalte Chalte and Maine Pyaar Kyun Kiya?. Through both comic and supporting roles, he established himself as a dependable performer capable of leaving a lasting impact on audiences.

The team at Bollywood Hungama expresses its deepest condolences on the passing of Dinyar Tirandaz.

Also Read: The Trial S2, Scam 1992 actor Ramakant Daayama passes away

This is the week of grand trailer launches. Today, the trailer of Welcome To The Jungle will be unveiled amid a jungle set-up at Mumbai’s YRF Studios. Tomorrow, June 12, the makers of Dhamaal 4 will launch the trailer of their much-awaited film at Imagicaa, the popular amusement park located on the outskirts of Mumbai. In this article, Bollywood Hungama informs readers about the activities planned as part of the grand trailer launch.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Dhamaal 4 is a special film and hence, the makers were clear that the trailer launch experience also needed to be one-of-its-kind. Accordingly, they locked Imagicaa as the venue. And that’s not all. The mediapersons travelling to the amusement park will be treated to an immersive, adventure-led experience that goes far beyond a traditional trailer release.”

The source further said, “The biggest highlight of the event will be a spectacular 60-ft poster reveal, with the poster cascading down a grand waterfall in the presence of the entire star cast. It is expected to create a visually stunning and unforgettable moment for the attendees, as well as a huge talking point on social media.”

The source continued, “In other words, the trailer launch will transform into a live entertainment experience, blending thrills, visuals and audience engagement. It is designed to mirror the film's treasure-hunt narrative. Hence, the makers are confident that the entertaining event will successfully offer an interactive glimpse into the madness and adventure of Dhamaal 4.”

Directed by Indra Kumar, Dhamaal 4 brings back the franchise’s core cast, including Ajay Devgn, Riteish Deshmukh, Arshad Warsi, Sanjay Mishra, and Jaaved Jaaferi. The ensemble cast also features Esha Gupta, Sanjeeda Shaikh, Anjali Anand, Upendra Limaye, Vijay Patkar, and Ravi Kishan, adding new faces to the comedy series.

Dhamaal 4 is presented by Gulshan Kumar and T-Series, in association with Devgn Films and is a T-Series Films, Maruti International, Panorama Studios production. It is directed by Indra Kumar and produced by Ajay Devgn, Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, Ashok Thakeria, Indra Kumar, Anand Pandit, and Kumar Mangat Pathak.

Also Read: Dhamaal 4 release date gets confirmed! Ajay Devgn, Riteish Deshmukh and gang to bring laughter riot to cinemas on July 10, 2026

In the midst of all the controversy around her character and its portrayal in the Buchi Babu-directed Peddi, Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learnt that Janhvi Kapoor drew her biggest pay cheque for the film. According to reliable trade sources, the actress was paid a sum of Rs. 8 crores for the part of female lead alongside Ram Charan.

"This is the biggest pay cheque of her career, and she was a thorough professional on the sets of Peddi. She was paid Rs. 5 crores for Devara, and this is a jump of about 50 per cent from Devara. With back-to-back success in the Telugu film industry with Devara and Peddi, Janhvi is considered to be the woman with a golden leg in the fraternity, commanding a 100 per cent success ratio," a trade source informed Bollywood Hungama.

The source further added that Janhvi will next be seen in Atlee-directed Raka alongside Allu Arjun. In Hindi, she will next be seen in Lag Ja Gale with Tiger Shroff and Lakshya. "Janhvi is offered multiple projects in Telugu now, and the pay cheque for Peddi has set the benchmark high," the trade source added.

Peddi is a success story in Telugu, though the Hindi version failed to make any noise.

Also Read: When a waistline gets more attention than the performer: Janhvi Kapoor deserved a Srivalli moment in Peddi; instead, her South gamble backfired as objectification overshadowed her talent

Hrithik Roshan has added another significant milestone to his illustrious career by signing with Anonymous Content, the renowned global media company known for producing premium content and representing some of the world's most acclaimed directors, writers, and actors.

One of Indian cinema's most celebrated stars, Roshan has carved a remarkable legacy over the past two-and-a-half decades with a string of blockbuster films and critically acclaimed performances. The actor is widely recognized for headlining the successful Krrish superhero franchise, where he plays the titular superhero, as well as the action thriller War, in which he essayed the role of a rogue spy agent. His filmography also includes landmark films such as Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, directed by Zoya Akhtar, and Karan Johar’s family drama Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham.

Roshan's journey to superstardom began in 2000 with Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai, the blockbuster action-romance that instantly established him as a household name across India. Since then, he has remained one of the country's most bankable stars, consistently delivering memorable performances and commercially successful films.

Raised in a film family, Hrithik Roshan has emerged as one of the foremost leading men of Indian cinema. Over a career spanning more than two decades, his films have collectively grossed over $600 million worldwide. He has also received multiple Filmfare Award nominations, winning six awards for Best Actor. Notably, he remains the only Indian actor to win both the Best Debut and Best Actor Filmfare Awards for the same film, Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai. In 2006, he won both the Critics' Choice and Popular Choice Best Actor awards at the Filmfare Awards for Koi… Mil Gaya. Apart from his acting prowess, Roshan is also celebrated for his dance performances, many of which have enjoyed immense popularity among audiences.

On the work front, the actor will next be seen reprising his iconic role in Krrish 4, the latest instalment in the blockbuster superhero franchise.

Beyond acting, Roshan is also expanding his presence as a producer. He is currently producing Storm, a high-stakes thriller for Prime Video under his banner HRX Films, marking his debut as a producer. Prime Video India and HRX Films have also announced Mess, a comedy feature that marks the second collaboration between the streaming platform and Roshan's production house following Storm.

The actor is also the founder of HRX, one of India's leading fitness and athleisure brands and among the country's most successful actor-led ventures.

Despite his new international association, Roshan will continue to be represented in India by Collective Artists Network.

Also Read: Rakesh Roshan shuts down reports of Hrithik Roshan-YRF budget clash over Krrish 4: “There are no issues”

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has faced heavy scrutiny in the last two weeks. The cuts given to Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai and Bandar were criticized. Meanwhile, CBFC asked for cuts in two crucial scenes in Obsession and it led to a huge uproar on social media which continued for many days. Meanwhile, this week, the CBFC has sprung a pleasant surprise by passing three crucial films with zero cuts.

The Kangana Ranaut-starrer Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata, based on the 26/11 terror attacks, was passed with a U/A 16+ rating on May 29. Despite a thriller film with violent scenes, the CBFC’s Examining Committee (EC) found no reason to ask for any cuts.

The length of Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata, as mentioned on the censor certificate, is 127.13 minutes. In other words, the film is 2 hours, 7 minutes and 13 seconds long.

Vikram Bhatt returns with Haunted – Echoes Of The Past this week. Like Haunted (2011), this horror film will also be released in 3D. It has been rated ‘A’ and usually, such films are peppered with intimate and horrifying scenes that face scissor cuts.

However, Haunted – Echoes Of The Past is an exception and hasn’t faced any visual or audio cut. The length of the Mimoh Chakraborty-starrer, as mentioned on the censor certificate, is 138.54 minutes. In other words, the film is 2 hours, 18 minutes and 54 seconds long. It was passed by the CBFC yesterday, on June 9.

Finally, Backrooms was given an ‘A’ rating by the CBFC on June 8 with no cuts. The length of the film, as mentioned on the censor certificate, is 110.54 minutes. In other words, the sci-fi psychological horror Hollywood flick is 1 hour, 50 minutes and 54 seconds long.

There’s some curiosity to see Backrooms as, like Obsession, it has emerged as a sleeper blockbuster. However, viewers are expected to watch the film before being jubilant about no-cuts. This is because there’s a fear that the studio may have voluntarily blurred or removed certain disturbing shots before submitting the film to the CBFC.

Also Read: “People are going to LOVE Manoj Bajpayee in Governor like NEVER before,” says Vipul Shah; adds, “Kabhi film acchi hogi, kabhi film buri hogi. Lekin unka performance hamesha achha hi hota hai”

The wait for Dhamaal 4 just got shorter. The makers of the highly anticipated comedy franchise have officially announced that the film will now hit cinemas on July 10, 2026, a week earlier than its previously scheduled release date.

The announcement was made along with the unveiling of the film’s striking gold logo, further building excitement around what promises to be one of the biggest comedy entertainers of next year. Following the recent introduction of the franchise’s beloved gang, the latest update has given fans another reason to celebrate as the iconic treasure hunt adventure gears up for its return to the big screen.

Known for its trademark blend of slapstick humour, quirky characters and laugh-out-loud situations, Dhamaal 4 is expected to take the franchise’s madness quotient several notches higher. The upcoming instalment reunites fan-favourite stars Ajay Devgn, Arshad Warsi, Riteish Deshmukh, Jaaved Jaaferi and Sanjay Mishra, all of whom have been synonymous with the franchise’s comic legacy.

Joining them is an ensemble cast featuring Esha Gupta, Sanjeeda Shaikh, Anjali Anand, Upendra Limaye, Vijay Patkar and Ravi Kishan. With such a diverse lineup, audiences can expect plenty of comic chaos, unexpected twists and family-friendly entertainment.

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Interestingly, Bollywood Hungama had earlier reported about the possibility of the film shifting its release date. A source had revealed, “Dhamaal 4 was originally scheduled to arrive in cinemas on July 17. It'll now release a week earlier, on July 10. There has been buzz in the trade that Alpha is releasing on July 3. So, the July 10 slot is now vacant and hence, the makers of Dhamaal 4 decided to take up the date. They feel that July 10 is apt for their film and would be a treat for the fans as they'll get to see the comic caper a week earlier.”

With the official announcement now in place, the film is poised to capitalize on a favourable release window and attract audiences looking for wholesome entertainment.

Directed by Indra Kumar, Dhamaal 4 is backed by an impressive team of producers including Ajay Devgn, Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, Ashok Thakeria, Indra Kumar, Anand Pandit and Kumar Mangat Pathak. The film is presented by Gulshan Kumar and T-Series in association with Devgn Films and is a production of T-Series Films, Maruti International and Panorama Studios.

As anticipation continues to build, Dhamaal 4 is shaping up to be one of 2026’s most-awaited comedy releases, promising audiences bigger laughs, crazier adventures and the trademark madness that has made the franchise a fan favourite for years.

Also Read: Dhamaal 4 character posters out! Ajay Devgn, Riteish Deshmukh, Arshad Warsi, and gang embark on a wild treasure hunt adventure

Yash Raj Films has finally unveiled the much-anticipated teaser of Alpha, offering audiences their first look into the action-packed world of its female spy protagonist. Released on June 10, the sleek and stylish teaser introduces Alia Bhatt in a never-seen-before avatar, showcasing her transformation into a highly trained operative prepared for a dangerous mission.

The teaser opens with an intriguing father-daughter dynamic between Bobby Deol and Alia Bhatt. Bobby’s character, whom Alia affectionately addresses as “Baba,” appears to have adopted and raised her with a singular purpose. On her 18th birthday, he presents her with a gift that marks the beginning of a life-altering mission, one she has seemingly been preparing for since childhood.

As the teaser unfolds, Bobby’s character reveals his vision of creating the next generation of soldiers. Through intense training sessions, combat drills, and survival exercises, he molds Alia into a formidable fighter. Convinced that she is destined for greatness, he repeatedly reminds her that she is “Alpha” — a title that appears to carry significant importance within the film’s narrative.

Alpha | The First Kill ❗️#Sharvari | @AnilKapoor | @thedeol | @shivrawail | #AdityaChopra | @yrf | #AkshayeWidhani | #YRFSpyUniversehttps://t.co/WO2CoC0l15 — Alia Bhatt (@aliaa08) June 10, 2026

While the makers have chosen to keep the central mission under wraps, the teaser offers plenty of adrenaline-fueled moments. Alia is seen performing hand-to-hand combat, executing high-risk action sequences, and taking on enemies with remarkable precision. The visual treatment and action choreography evoke comparisons to global spy-action franchises, reminiscent of films such as Black Widow and Charlie’s Angels, while retaining the scale and flair associated with the YRF Spy Universe.

Interestingly, the teaser focuses almost entirely on Bobby Deol and Alia Bhatt, keeping the roles of other key cast members a mystery. Fans are still awaiting a glimpse of Sharvari and Anil Kapoor, both of whom are expected to play pivotal roles in the film.

For the unversed, Alpha, directed by Shiv Rawail, marks the first female-led chapter in Yash Raj Films’ ambitious Spy Universe, which already includes blockbuster franchises such as Tiger, Pathaan, and War. Reports have also suggested that Hrithik Roshan’s popular spy character Kabir Dhaliwal from the War franchise could make a special appearance in the film, although the makers have remained tight-lipped about the speculation.

With Alpha slated to release on July 3, the teaser has successfully heightened anticipation among fans. Packed with mystery, action, and emotional undertones, the first glimpse sets the stage for what could be one of the most exciting additions to the YRF Spy Universe. All eyes are now on the trailer, which is expected to arrive in the coming weeks.

Also Read: Imtiaz Ali defends Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt against nepotism; says, “Outsiders have it easier like me”

Actress Akansha Ranjan Kapoor is all set to embark on a new chapter in her life as she prepares to tie the knot with filmmaker Sharan Sharma. Known for her performance in Netflix's Guilty and Monica O My Darling, Akansha has reportedly been in a long-term relationship with the Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl director, although the couple has largely kept their romance away from the public eye.

While Akansha had earlier confirmed their relationship, the couple has hardly followed the trend of posting content with each other on social media. However, the duo has often been spotted attending private gatherings, close-knit celebrations, and social events together over the years.

Now, reports suggest that wedding bells are finally ringing for the couple. According to a source who spoke exclusively to Hindustan Times, Akansha and Sharan are set to get married next month. “Akansha and Sharan are getting married on July 11 followed with a wedding reception on July 12. The reception will take place in JW Marriott and hosted by the boy’s side,” the source was quoted saying.

While details about the wedding festivities remain under wraps, it is being reported that the couple is keen on keeping the celebrations intimate and personal. In an era where celebrity weddings often become grand public spectacles, Akansha and Sharan appear to be taking a more private route.

Sources indicate that the couple has chosen to send out e-invites instead of traditional printed invitations. The digital-first approach aligns with their preference for a low-key ceremony attended only by close family members and a select group of friends. Despite the wedding taking place in Mumbai, the guest list is expected to remain limited.

Akansha, who has steadily carved a niche for herself in the entertainment industry, and Sharan, who earned acclaim for directing Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl, Mr and Mrs Mahi among others, have maintained a relatively private personal life. As they get ready to exchange vows next month, fans and well-wishers are eagerly awaiting more details from what promises to be one of the most talked-about celebrity weddings of the season.

Also Read: Akansha Ranjan Kapoor promises to take you on a deeper, more personal journey as Dr. Gargi in Gram Chikitsalay 2

Producer Dinesh Vijan and actor Rajkummar Rao are set to collaborate once again for Prahaar – The Ujjwal Nikam Story, a new drama inspired by events that left a lasting impact on the nation. The film is scheduled to release in cinemas on August 7, 2026.

Directed by Avinash Arun, the project will see Rajkummar Rao in the lead role. The cast also includes Wamiqa Gabbi, Sikander Kher, and Jaideep Ahlawat in pivotal roles. The film is being produced under the banner of Maddock Films.

While the makers have kept plot details under wraps, the title indicates that the film will draw inspiration from the life and work of Ujjwal Nikam, one of India's most prominent public prosecutors. The announcement describes the film as a hard-hitting drama inspired by incidents that shaped public discourse and captured national attention.

The project marks another chapter in the long-standing creative partnership between Rajkummar Rao and Maddock Films. Over the years, the actor has become one of the studio's most frequent collaborators, working across genres ranging from horror-comedy to social dramas and family entertainers.

Their association gained widespread attention with the blockbuster hit Stree and continued with projects such as Made in China, Roohi, and Hum Do Hamare Do. The partnership reached new heights when Stree 2 emerged as one of the biggest box-office successes of 2024.

More recently, Rajkummar Rao teamed up with Wamiqa Gabbi in Bhool Chuk Maaf, a fantasy romantic comedy backed by Maddock Films. The upcoming Prahaar – The Ujjwal Nikam Story will mark another collaboration between the two actors.

Also Read: Taran Adarsh lauds Rajkummar Rao for building “creative synergy” with Maddock Films as Bhool Chuk Maaf releases: “Their collaborations seem to bring out the best in each other”

Actor Arshad Warsi will essay a double role for the first time in his career in Jeevan Bheema Yojana, a dark comedy crime thriller directed by Abhishek Dogra.

The film features an ensemble cast that includes Sanjeeda Shaikh, Vijay Raaz, Pooja Chopra, and Brijendra Kala.

Produced by Anshu Mishra under Star Beam Ventures Ltd (formerly BlueGod Entertainment Ltd), Jeevan Bheema Yojana has completed production and is scheduled for a theatrical release in monsoon 2026.

Warsi, known for his work in films such as Munna Bhai M.B.B.S., Ishqiya, and Jolly LLB, portrays two lookalike men whose lives become dangerously intertwined in a tale of crime, deception, and dark humour.

The film follows Jeevan and his wife Yojana, a couple burdened by mounting debt, who encounter Bheema, a stranger bearing an uncanny resemblance to Jeevan. What begins as a plan to fake Jeevan’s death and claim an insurance payout unravels when the man presumed dead turns out to be connected to a dangerous diamond-smuggling network.

Director Abhishek Dogra said, “Jeevan Bheema Yojana is a film about ordinary people making one extraordinary, catastrophic decision and then spending the rest of the film paying for it. The genre is dark comedy, but the heart of it is very human. Greed, desperation, love, and the terrible momentum of a lie you can’t stop telling. Arshad brings both men to life with a precision that constantly surprised us on set.”

Abhishek Dogra has previously directed Dolly Ki Doli and FryDay.

Jeevan Bheema Yojana is set to release in theatres during monsoon 2026.

Also Read: Arshad Warsi to portray double role for the first time in a quirky crime comedy titled Jeevan Bheema Yojana

Star Plus may be gearing up to make a grand return to the reality television space with what is being described as one of its most ambitious non-fiction projects in recent years. While the channel has delivered several successful reality properties in the past, including Dance Plus and Nach Baliye, industry sources indicate that a brand-new format could soon be heading to television screens.

According to sources close to the development, the broadcaster is planning a large-scale reality show that could rival the stature and scale of popular formats such as Bigg Boss. Interestingly, insiders claim that the concept may also draw comparisons with some of the newer reality formats that have recently gained attention on streaming platforms, including The 50. What makes the project particularly intriguing is its reported format. While official details remain tightly under wraps, sources suggest that the show may feature a fresh set of participants in every episode, offering viewers a constantly evolving narrative and a unique viewing experience unlike traditional reality competitions. Adding further weight to the speculation is the reported involvement of Endemol Shine India, the production house behind Bigg Boss and several other successful unscripted formats. Industry insiders believe that the collaboration signals the channel's intent to mount the project on a significant scale. The mystery surrounding the show has only intensified with reports that the first promotional shoot is currently underway in Mumbai. Sources reveal that the host has already begun filming the inaugural promo, although the identity of the face leading the show has not been officially confirmed. Meanwhile, industry chatter suggests that a major Bollywood name could be associated with the project. Among the names doing the rounds is Anil Kapoor, who has previously showcased his flair for hosting and television appearances. However, there has been no official confirmation regarding his involvement at the time of writing. With the channel maintaining complete secrecy around the project, fans and industry observers alike are eagerly awaiting an official announcement. If the reports hold true, Star Plus could be preparing to re-enter the reality entertainment arena in a big way, with a format that promises both scale and novelty. Also Read: Star Plus to launch its newest jodi from Sairaab at Fashion Ke Rang, Rishton Ke Sang

The advance booking of Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey was thrown open in India at 10:00 am on June 8, though the release is more than a month away. As of now, Universal Pictures has opened plans for only two shows, that too in IMAX screens, one early morning and one at night or evening. It was expected that the rates of all shows across the country would be sky-high or the highest ever, surpassing the insane ticket prices of Nolan’s last film, Oppenheimer (2023) or the recently released Dhurandhar The Revenge (2026). But it’s a pleasant surprise to see that in several cinemas of IMAX, the rates are reasonable.

Mumbai

The luxurious Inox Malad is the cheapest place to watch The Odyssey as the morning show tickets are available for just Rs. 450, Rs. 470 and Rs. 520. The price of the tickets for the evening show of 5:00 pm is Rs. 700, 750 and Rs. 800. Erox IMAX meanwhile, is charging Rs. 500, Rs. 520 and Rs. 550 for 9:45 am and Rs. 700, Rs. 720 and Rs. 750 for the 4:45 pm show.

At PVR Lower Parel, the rates are slightly higher, though not the highest. The 10:00 am show tickets are sold for Rs. 700, Rs. 800 and Rs. 1400, while one will have to shell out Rs. 900, Rs. 1200 and Rs. 1400 for the 8:30 pm show.

The Cinepolis cinemas are charging the highest. At their Thane property, the rates are Rs. 950, Rs. 1000 and Rs. 1050 for the 7:00 am show and Rs. 1400, Rs. 1500 and Rs. 1600 for the 5:30 pm show. In Cinepolis Seawoods, no tickets are sold under Rs. 1300. While the 7:00 am show tickets are for Rs. 1300, Rs. 1400 and Rs. 1500, the 5:30 pm show tickets are sold for Rs. 1800, Rs. 1900 and Rs. 2000.

Delhi-NCR

In the capital city and surrounding places, two cinemas are charging in four digits. In PVR Vegas Dwarka, the rates for both shows are Rs. 830, Rs. 850 and Rs. 1050. PVR Priya tickets are reasonably priced at Rs. 450, Rs. 470 and Rs. 490; however, the recliners are available for Rs. 1400. PVR Superplex Noida comes next, as it charges Rs. 640, Rs. 660 and Rs. 760 for the afternoon show and Rs. 700, Rs. 720 and Rs. 810 for the late-night show. In Inox Vishal Mall, the tickets of early morning show are sold for Rs. 550, Rs. 600 and Rs. 650 and that of the night show at Rs. 700, Rs. 750 and Rs. 800.

Lastly, Inox Paras is charging Rs. 370, Rs. 390, Rs. 410 and Rs. 490 for 9:15 am show and Rs. 520, Rs. 570, Rs. 620 and Rs. 650 for the 7:45 pm show. In other words, it is the theatres with the cheapest tickets for The Odyssey in India.

Down South and Kolkata

In Cinepolis Nexus Bengaluru, the rates are Rs. 900, Rs. 950 and Rs. 1000 for both shows, while in Cinepolis Kochi, tickets are available for Rs. 750, Rs. 800, Rs. 850, Rs. 900 and Rs. 950. The popular Broadway in Coimbatore is charging a flat rate of Rs. 508.34. Meanwhile, in Inox South City Kolkata, the tickets for the 10:00 am show are Rs. 470 and Rs. 500 and that of the 8:30 pm show are Rs. 680 and Rs. 710.

Pune

If you are a resident of Pune, be prepared to pay the highest in the country to watch The Odyssey. The tickets of the 7:00 am show at Cinepolis Aundh and the 9:00 am show at Inox Megaplex are sold for Rs. 1400, Rs. 1500 and Rs. 2600. As for the evening shows in these cinemas, the rates are Rs. 1600, Rs. 1700 and Rs. 3000.

To conclude

As of 10:45 am on June 8, several IMAX properties are yet to open bookings like Miraj IMAX Wadala Mumbai, PVR Palazzo and Inox Velachery in Chennai, PVR Palladium Mall Ahmedabad, Inox Megaplex Lucknow, etc. Moreover, theatres often practice dynamic pricing. This means that the rates might increase as ticket sales go higher.

Also Read: Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey to open IMAX ticket sales in India from June 8

Sriram Raghavan's Andhadhun continues to be regarded as one of the most acclaimed thrillers in modern Hindi cinema. Starring Ayushmann Khurrana, Tabu, and Radhika Apte, the 2018 film won both critical and commercial success. However, years after its release, actor Varun Dhawan has revealed that the film almost had a very different cast.

During a recent appearance on comedian and content creator Tanmay Bhat's YouTube channel, Varun opened up about one of the biggest films he passed on during his career. The conversation began when Tanmay asked if there was a major film that Varun had rejected and later regretted after seeing its success.

Responding to the question, Varun admitted that there was indeed a film he could not take up. "I think a good movie. I think I said no to a good film," he said.

When Tanmay asked him to name the project, Varun revealed, "Andhadhun. I was filming for something else. So I couldn't do it. And the original cast of the film was supposed to be me and Kangana."

The revelation has reignited discussions around the film's early development. For years, reports had suggested that director Sriram Raghavan had initially discussed the concept of Andhadhun with Varun Dhawan. The two had previously collaborated on the critically acclaimed thriller Badlapur in 2015.

According to reports at the time, Varun was impressed by the idea behind Andhadhun. However, he and Raghavan decided to prioritize Badlapur first. As the actor's schedule became increasingly packed with other commitments, Raghavan reportedly began searching for a new lead actor.

The role eventually went to Ayushmann Khurrana. The film also earned widespread praise for Tabu's layered performance and its unpredictable screenplay. Released in 2018, Andhadhun emerged as both a critical and box office success. The thriller won multiple awards and is still considered one of Raghavan's finest works.

Meanwhile, Varun Dhawan is currently seen in Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, directed by his father David Dhawan. The romantic comedy, which also stars Pooja Hegde and Mrunal Thakur, released in theatres on June 5. Despite generating pre-release buzz, the film recorded a modest opening at the box office.

Also Read: Here’s what happened when Sui Dhaaga actor Varun Dhawan meets Andhadhun star Ayushmann Khurrana

The development of Krrish 4 has been under intense scrutiny ever since reports surfaced claiming there were disagreements between Hrithik Roshan and Yash Raj Films over the film's budget. However, filmmaker Rakesh Roshan has now firmly dismissed such speculation, calling the reports baseless and reiterating that the ambitious superhero project is progressing smoothly.

Over the past few months, industry chatter suggested that Hrithik Roshan, who is set to make his directorial debut with Krrish 4, was keen on mounting the film on a massive scale with world-class visual effects and action sequences. Reports further claimed that while Hrithik envisioned a budget of around Rs 500 crores, Yash Raj Films preferred to keep production costs closer to Rs 350 crores to ensure commercial viability.

Addressing these rumours, Rakesh Roshan told Mid-Day, “It’s all nonsense that Hrithik has asked for a Rs 500 crore budget for top-tier VFX and world-class action for his directorial debut, while YRF wants to cap costs at Rs 350 crores. Making a good film catering to a [wide] audience takes time. Even I have taken time for each of my Krrish offerings.”

The filmmaker also shed light on why the much-awaited superhero sequel has yet to go on floors despite being announced some time ago. According to him, the delay has more to do with scheduling than any creative or financial differences. “Krrish is on another planet and we are all waiting for his dates,” Rakesh Roshan joked, referring to Hrithik's packed professional commitments.

He further clarified that there are no issues between the stakeholders involved in the project. “There are no issues; all is smooth. It’s teamwork between Adi, Hrithik, and me,” he said.

Krrish 4 has undergone several changes over the years. Earlier, director Karan Malhotra and filmmaker-producer Siddharth Anand were reportedly associated with the project. However, the film eventually took a new direction, with Hrithik Roshan stepping into the director's chair. The upcoming installment is being jointly backed by Rakesh Roshan's Filmkraft and Aditya Chopra's Yash Raj Films.

While Rakesh Roshan refrained from sharing a definitive timeline for production, he revealed that the script is nearly finalized and the makers are hoping to begin filming by the end of the year. “I will update you when everything is ready,” he concluded.

Also Read: Priyanka Chopra Jonas cast as female lead in Hrithik Roshan’s Krrish 4

About two months remain before the release of Batwara, and the film's team is gearing up in full force to unveil the much-anticipated teaser. Recently, it was reported that the asset will be launched on June 15. Bollywood Hungama has now learned that the makers are putting together another interesting promo, which will also be out this month itself.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Batwara stars Preity Zinta, Shabana Azmi and Ali Fazal, and it also features Sunny’s son, Karan Deol. This is the first time that the father and son will share screen space, and they have an interesting dynamic in the film. The makers wanted to present the same to the audience. Hence, a special promo is being designed to highlight their bond.”

The source continued, “Father’s Day will be celebrated on June 21. Hence, the team of Batwara 1947 felt that it would be an apt day to bring the father-son asset out. A final call will be taken in the coming week, but as of now, the Father’s Day asset plan is on.”

Karan Deol made his acting debut with Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas (2019), which was directed by Sunny Deol. He later appeared in Velle (2021), and Batwara marks his third film.

Batwara 1947 was earlier titled Lahore 1947. On April 18, Bollywood Hungama had reported that the name of the film is likely to undergo a change and be rechristened as Batwara 1947. In February 2026, Bollywood Hungama carried a quote from a source that stated, “Lahore 1947 is based on the famous play ‘Jis Lahore Nai Dekhya’. Since the film is set in the Pakistani city and during the Independence period, the title Lahore 1947 was initially deemed suitable. But now the makers feel that there can be a better title that is apt for the story of the film.”

We have now learned that the makers have decided to name the film simply as Batwara. The film will release in cinemas on August 13, that is, in the Independence Day week.

The play, ‘Jis Lahore Nai Dekhya’, was written by Syed Asghar Wajahat in 1980. The Partition-era story revolves around a Muslim family which migrates from Lucknow to Lahore and is allotted a haveli vacated by a Hindu family. The old Hindu matriarch refuses to leave her ancestral home and she also strikes a rare bond with the Muslim immigrants.

Batwara is highly awaited as it reunites Sunny Deol and Rajkumar Santoshi and moreover, it is produced by Aamir Khan. Aamir will also be seen in the film in a supporting role and it also stars Preity Zinta, Ali Fazal and Shabana Azmi. Due to the stellar team and Sunny’s booming track record (that got a boost with the success of Border 2), the period drama is expected to set the cash registers ringing.

Also Read: Sunny Deol cheers for brother Bobby Deol’s intense Bandar teaser, calls him “Lord Bobby”