Indus Chronicles

Actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu recently celebrated her traditional baby shower ceremony, known as Seemantham, with her husband and director Raj Nidimoru. The intimate ceremony comes as the couple prepare to welcome their first child in December 2026. The actor also opened up about her experience of participating in the ceremony and understanding the meaning behind the rituals.

For the occasion, Samantha opted for a dark yellow and gold ethnic ensemble, which she paired with traditional jewellery and fresh flowers in her hair. Raj was also present as the couple participated in the sacred rituals together.

The intimate gathering was held outdoors, with the space decorated with marigold flowers and traditional oil lamps. Among those present were close friends and members of Samantha’s creative circle, including designer Shilpa Reddy and stylist Neeraja Kona. Samantha Ruth Prabhu explains the significance of the ceremony Sharing pictures from the celebration, Samantha spoke at length about her relationship with Indian traditions and how the ceremony gave her a deeper understanding of their significance.

“I have always had a deep respect for our traditions. I may not understand the meaning behind every ritual, but I have always believed that there is something deeper at work… in the sound of a mantra, the energy created through chanting, and the careful way the ancient practices have been passed down through generations,” she wrote.

She further explained that the priest conducting the ceremony was a Srividya Upaasaka, who took her through the meaning behind each ritual. “As the priest, a Srividya Upaasaka, began explaining each step, I slowly understood how thoughtful and meaningful the ceremony was. Every mantra had a purpose. Every offering had a meaning. Every step had its place,” Samantha added.

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According to the actor, the ceremony included Kalaa Aavarana, also referred to as Sri Kalpam, a specialised ritual associated with the Srividya tradition. She explained that the ritual honours the 94 kalas of Devi through the seven chakras of the mother-to-be, with sacred water and mantras used as part of the ceremony.

Samantha also highlighted the way the ritual places the mother at the centre of the ceremony, describing her as Devi and as the creator through whom new life is taking form. Samantha describes the Sri Chakra Yantram ritual The actor went on to explain another important part of the ceremony involving the Sri Chakra Yantram. Following the abhishekam, the mother-to-be is seated at its sacred centre, known as the bindu. “At its centre is the bindu, a single point symbolising the source of creation and the blessings of Lalita Tripurasundari,” Samantha explained.

She also spoke about the recitation of the Devi Khadgamaala, during which the names of deities and divine energies associated with the nine enclosures of the Sri Chakra are chanted. “The recitation symbolically moves from the outer layers towards the centre, guiding the mind inward and invoking protection and blessings,” she wrote.

Samantha described the experience as deeply personal, adding that she initially knew little about the ceremony but left feeling a stronger connection to the traditions and rituals. “There was something incredibly powerful about sitting there, experiencing all of this while understanding what was being invoked for me and for the baby. I went in knowing almost nothing about the ceremony. I came away feeling deeply blessed and protected,” she said.

The actor concluded her post by expressing gratitude to Shilpa Reddy for giving her the opportunity to experience the ceremony, as well as to everyone involved in creating the sacred space. “Grateful for the wisdom in the ancient traditions that surround us. Grateful for the mother I am becoming, and for the little life entrusted to me.”

Also Read: Samantha Ruth Prabhu reacts to fan suggesting baby name Samraj with Raj Nidimoru: “A tad full of ourselves, don’t you think?”

Neena Gupta has spoken openly about raising her daughter Masaba Gupta as a single mother and the choices that shaped their lives. In a recent conversation with Zoom, Neena reflected on Masaba’s childhood and her experience of growing up without her father, former West Indies cricketer Vivian Richards, being present in her everyday life.

Neena revealed that she has apologised to Masaba over the years for the circumstances of her upbringing. She acknowledged that some decisions made when she was younger had consequences that became clearer with time.

“I am so honest with her that many times I have said sorry to her that you didn't have a father with you when you were young. It is my fault, but she understands. We all make mistakes. When we are young, our parents tell us certain things and we don't listen. That wisdom comes later,” she said.

Neena also explained that she made a conscious effort to ensure Masaba learned about her father and their relationship directly from her. Rather than allowing her daughter to hear about the circumstances from others, she chose to have honest conversations with her as she grew older.

“I made her like her father. I told her why and what had happened as she grew up. So, there was no malice or anger towards me because I told her the truth. It is very important because, rather than her hearing something from outside, I thought it was better that I told her myself. I think that was a very sensible thing that I di,” she added.

Neena and Vivian Richards welcomed Masaba in 1989. In her autobiography Sach Kahun Toh, the actor had previously spoken about their relationship and the circumstances surrounding her pregnancy. "Vivian and I had an affair and I got pregnant. He had already returned home when I found out," she recalled.

She also remembered telling Richards about her pregnancy and asking whether he would object to her having his child. “I'm pregnant,” she told him. “Would you have a problem if I were to have your baby?" According to Neena, Richards told her to go ahead with the pregnancy.

The two continued their relationship for a few years despite often living apart. Neena later married chartered accountant Vivek Mehra in 2008. Masaba went on to establish herself in fashion before also entering acting. She married Satyadeep Misra in 2023, with both her parents present at the wedding.

On the work front, Neena was most recently seen in Netflix’s Chumbak, alongside Deven Bhojani, Arjun Bijlani, Sumeet Raghavan and others. The sitcom revolves around five multigenerational families living in row houses in the fictional Chumbak Colony. The series was created by Aatish Kapadia and Jamnadas “JD” Majethia.

 Also Read : Chumbak Trailer: Neena Gupta, Deven Bhojani, Arjun Bijlani, and Sumeet Vyas lead Netflix’s new family comedy

Govinda’s wife Sunita Ahuja, has added a new Mercedes-Benz to her car collection. Sunita was spotted at a luxury car dealership in Mumbai with her daughter, Tina Ahuja, as they arrived to take delivery of the new vehicle.

The mother-daughter duo was seen at the dealership before leaving with the new car. Their appearance also caught the attention of the paparazzi, who gathered around to capture pictures of the vehicle. During the interaction, Sunita responded to the photographers with a light-hearted remark. She said, “Humari gaadi toh aane se pehle hi bahut famous ho gayi hai!”

Tina accompanied her mother during the delivery ceremony. The two also participated in a traditional puja at the dealership, with Tina seen breaking a coconut as part of the ritual before they drove away in the new Mercedes-Benz.

The latest purchase adds to the Ahuja family's collection of premium cars. Sunita has previously been seen travelling in luxury vehicles, including a BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine that Govinda had gifted her on an earlier occasion.

Sunita and Tina's appearance at the dealership comes as the family adds another luxury vehicle to its garage. The new Mercedes-Benz was subsequently driven out onto the streets of Mumbai following the traditional ceremony.

Also Read : Sunita Ahuja urges Bollywood to contribute to Nepal flood relief; says, “Nepal is my matrabhoomi”

A couple of weeks after the release and surprising box office performance of Haunted – Echoes Of The Past, director Vikram Bhatt and producer Anand Pandit announced that they would join hands for 1920: Cold Winter. A month later, in July 2026, it was reported that Ahan Shetty has signed the horror flick. And now, Bollywood Hungama has come across an interesting information about the film.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Anya Singh, who became widely known after The Ba***ds Of Bollywood, has come on board as the female lead of the film. The makers were impressed by Anya’s screen presence and talent, and felt that she would be apt for the part. Anya is also excited as she has never attempted horror before in Bollywood.”

Interestingly, both Ahan Shetty and Anya Singh also shared screen space in this year’s super-hit war film, Border 2. While Ahan played the role of Lt Cdr Mahendra Singh Rawat, Anya was seen as his wife, Sudha Rawat. Hence, 1920: Cold Winter marks the second film in which Ahan Shetty and Anya Singh will be paired opposite each other.

As per reports, 1920: Cold Winter will go on floors in November this year. It will be the sixth film in the 1920 franchise. The series began with 1920 in 2008. It was directed by Vikram Bhatt and launched Adah Sharma and Rajniesh Duggal. While 1920 was average, the next film, 1920: Evil Returns (2012), was a semi-hit. It starred Aftab Shivdasani and Tia Bajpai and was directed by Bhushan Patel. 1920 London (2016), meanwhile, was directed by Tinu Suresh Desai and featured Sharman Joshi and Meera Chopra. Vikram Bhatt was involved with the second and third parts as writer and producer.

1921 (2018) was produced, written and directed by Vikram and it featured Zareen Khan and Karan Kundrra. While 1920 London flopped at the box office, 1921 was an average grosser.

1920: Horrors Of The Heart (2023) was also directed by Vikram Bhatt and it was his first association with producer Anand Pandit. Starring Avika Gor and Danish Pandor, the horror flick performed decently at the box office.

Also Read: Anya Singh opens up about changing fashion views; says, “It’s such a generic thought to have, and women do that to other women as well”

Delivering a thriller that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats is a challenge; outsmarting a fanbase that has spent years studying every detail of a beloved franchise is almost impossible. Yet, as anticipation reaches its peak for Drishyam The Conclusion, director Abhishek Pathak believes he and his writing team have pulled off the ultimate cinematic sleight of hand.

The Drishyam series has built its reputation on the razor-sharp intellect of its central character, Vijay Salgaonkar - a simple family man whose ability to stay steps ahead of the law has captivated millions. For the third chapter, Pathak knew that standard suspense mechanics wouldn’t cut it. To truly shock the audience, the creative team had to immerse themselves completely inside the calculated mind of Vijay Salgaonkar himself.

Reflecting on the gruelling, mind-bending writing process, Pathak shared a pivotal moment from the film’s development. He said, “When we were writing, we were thinking like Salgaonkar. Even when I was narrating the script to Ajay Devgn, there came a point when we brought it to a halt… and I kept asking people, ‘Now, what do you think is going to happen?’ No one could really guess it, and that was a victory in itself.”

By turning the script room and even early narrations with leading man Ajay Devgn, into an interactive litmus test, Pathak ensured that every potential fan theory was systematically dismantled. With early listeners left stumped by the film's trajectory, Pathak enters the release confident that Drishyam The Conclusion will give thriller enthusiasts the ultimate test of wits. The film releases on October 2, 2026.

Also Read: Abhishek Pathak opens up on 12-year Drishyam journey: “Filmmaking is intense, and my wife kept me sane”

Lyricist Sameer had a conversation with Komal Nahta where he criticized the current state of music in Bollywood. He said, “Jo acchi cheez hoti hai, wahi lambi samay tak chalti hai. So even 100 years later, the old songs will continue to find an audience. A producer told me that he has only hired young kids in his office. I replied, ‘Acchi baat hai. Kab se rakha hai aapne?’. They replied, ‘Since 5-6 years’. I told them, ‘There was a time when your company used to come up with 10 super-hit albums every year. But that hasn’t happened in the last 5-6 years. Who have you hired then?’.”

Sameer clarified, “I am not saying that the young kids are not talented. But when the old and new can merge together, it can be beneficial. I worked with Sachin-Jigar in FALTU (2011) and wrote songs like ‘Aaltu Jalaltu’ and ‘Chaar Baje Gaye Lekin Party Abhi Baaki Hai’. I proved with these songs that I could collaborate with young kids and come up with such youthful numbers. If you won’t give an opportunity to Anand-Milind or Anu Malik, how will they prove that they still have it in them? But the makers want to instead work with just the new people. Has that helped?”

Sameer thundered, “No wonder Arijit Singh pagal ho gaya aur industry chod diya. Things became monotonous for him; the sound of most songs is the same. He wasn’t getting variety. Udit Narayan and other songs in those days were offered variety of songs.”

He added, “This is the reason why there has been a deterioration of music. Upar se Dhurandhar ne aur satyanaash kiya. Unhone music ko utha ke background mein daal diya. Look at the teaser of Chauhaan. ‘Jumma Chumma’ plays in the background while all the action happens on screen. They recreated my song ‘Hum Pyaar Karne Waale, Duniya Se Na Darr Ne Waale’ in Dhurandhar The Revenge. But on the screen, goliyan chal rahi hain. Gaana kahaan hai bhai? Now it’s not my father’s industry that I can stop such practices. Yeh tab tak galat hoga jab tak galat hoke sab kuch khatam nahin ho jaayega.”

He further said, “Nadeem (Music director Nadeem Saifi) told me, ‘Pandit ji, don’t worry. Aap chup chaap baitho. Yeh (practice) jab tak aakhri saans na le le, tab tak inko saans le lene do. Fir hum aayenge’.”

Sameer also remarked, “Top banners run by Aditya Chopra, Karan Johar, Sajid Nadiadwala etc. used to patronize good songs. Inko kya ho gaya?”

Ganesh Chaturthi is the perfect excuse to bring out your festive wardrobe and add a little glamour to your celebrations. From elegant sarees and traditional silhouettes to contemporary takes on ethnic wear, Bollywood celebrities have given us plenty of fashion inspiration to bookmark.

This festive season, take cues from these celebrities and put your own stylish spin on your Ganesh Chaturthi look.

Sonam Kapoor

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When it comes to fashion inspiration, Sonam Kapoor is always one to watch out for. Her approach to festive dressing proves that traditional wear does not have to be predictable. If you want to experiment with silhouettes, layering or accessories this Ganesh Chaturthi, Sonam's fashion choices are worth bookmarking.

Aamna Sharif

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If you love keeping your festive look elegant and feminine, Aamna Sharif is the perfect style inspiration. Her traditional yet effortlessly glamorous look makes a strong case for choosing a classic ethnic silhouette and letting the details do the talking. Think graceful drapes, delicate accessories, and a polished beauty look for your Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.

Janhvi Kapoor

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Janhvi Kapoor knows how to make traditional fashion look effortlessly glamorous. Her festive look is perfect inspiration for those who want to go all out this Ganesh Chaturthi without losing the elegance of Indian wear. Take cues from her styling and add statement jewellery, soft glam and a touch of contemporary flair to your festive ensemble.

Alia Bhatt

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For those who prefer understated elegance, Alia Bhatt's style is the perfect reference. Her fuss-free approach to ethnic fashion shows how you can keep your Ganesh Chaturthi outfit sophisticated without going over the top. A beautiful traditional ensemble paired with minimal jewellery and natural makeup can create that effortless festive look.

Sonakshi Sinha

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Sonakshi Sinha’s festive fashion is all about embracing the beauty of traditional Indian dressing. If sarees are your go-to for celebrations, take inspiration from her and make the classic drape your statement. Add some bold jewellery and a confident beauty look to complete the ensemble.

Mrunal Thakur

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Mrunal Thakur is another celebrity to look towards when planning your festive wardrobe. Her ethnic looks strike the right balance between traditional and contemporary, making them perfect for anyone who wants to experiment this Ganesh Chaturthi while still keeping the festive spirit intact.

Sanya Malhotra

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For a more relaxed and modern take on festive dressing, Sanya Malhotra is a great style inspiration. Her looks show that you can have fun with Indian fashion while keeping things youthful and effortless. Take cues from her styling if you want your Ganesh Chaturthi outfit to feel comfortable, chic and anything but boring.

Also Read: Don’t Be Shy trailer launch: Shaheen Bhatt used to ‘RAGEBAIT’ 4-year-old Alia Bhatt: “She said I wasn’t really my parents’ child; I came FREE with Parle-G!”

Veer Pahariya recently visited the Kamakhya Temple in Assam to seek blessings ahead of the release of his upcoming film Prem Keetanu. The actor shared a glimpse of his visit on social media, posting a picture from the temple premises with the caption, “Jai Jai Maa KAMAKHYA,” along with devotional emojis.

For the temple visit, Veer opted for a traditional blue kurta paired with a red and gold stole. He was seen offering prayers at the revered temple as he prepares for the release of his next film.

Directed by Apoorv Singh Karki, Prem Keetanu features Veer alongside Aparshakti Khurana, Aafiya Sayed, Rakesh Bedi and Nikhil Vijay. The film revolves around a group of young men and their experiences with college life, friendship, love, aspirations and heartbreak.

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Prem Keetanu is scheduled to release in theatres worldwide on October 2, 2026, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti. The film also marks the first production venture under producer Gaurav Verma’s banner, Avanika Films.

Veer made his acting debut with Sky Force and is now set to take on a different role with the upcoming romantic comedy. The promotional campaign for Prem Keetanu is currently underway, with songs including ‘Tu Mera Raiyyo’ already released for audiences.

His visit to the Kamakhya Temple comes as he prepares for the film’s theatrical release. By sharing a glimpse of the spiritual outing, Veer gave fans a look at a quieter moment during the ongoing promotions of Prem Keetanu.

Also Read : Prem Keetanu: Veer Pahariya and Aafiya Sayed rise in love with ‘Kaho Toh’ sung by Armaan Malik; watch song

With Ganesh Chaturthi around the corner, it’s time to bring out the ethnic wear. And when it comes to festive fashion inspiration, Deepika Padukone’s wardrobe offers everything from elegant sarees to regal lehengas and timeless Indian silhouettes. Here are 10 looks to bookmark for the festive season.

1. The Statement Patola Ensemble A beautiful handwoven Patola-inspired ensemble featuring intricate prints, vibrant detailing and a traditional border. It’s festive, elegant and perfect for making a statement at Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.

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2. The Classic Red Saree For a quintessential festive look, Deepika’s red saree is all the inspiration you need. Paired with traditional jewellery, a sleek bun and a statement drape, this is a timeless Ganesh Chaturthi look that never goes out of style.

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3. The Elegant Ivory Suit Keeping things understated, Deepika’s ivory traditional suit is ideal for those who prefer subtle festive dressing. The delicate embroidery and muted palette make it graceful without being OTT.

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4. The Regal Red-And-Gold Lehenga Deepika proves that red and gold are a match made for the festive season. Draped in a richly embellished outfit with traditional jewellery, this look brings all the royal festive energy.

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5. The Royal Purple Saree A deep purple saree with intricate borders is another gorgeous way to stand out this Ganesh Chaturthi. Deepika keeps the styling sophisticated, letting the rich colour and detailed embroidery do all the talking.

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6. The Shimmering Champagne Saree For an evening celebration, take cues from Deepika’s shimmering champagne saree. Elegant, glamorous and effortlessly sophisticated, it’s proof that festive wear doesn’t always have to come in bright colours.

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7. The White-And-Black Saree Deepika’s striking white saree with a black border offers a contemporary spin on traditional dressing. Minimal yet powerful, it’s perfect for those who like their festive fashion classic with a modern edge.

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8. The Traditional Lehenga Deepika’s gold-and-black lehenga is another look worth bookmarking. With its ornate embroidery, traditional detailing and sheer dupatta, the ensemble brings a regal touch to festive celebrations.

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9. The Gold Embroidered Ensemble For a more unconventional take on ethnic wear, Deepika’s heavily embroidered gold ensemble is a perfect pick. The long silhouette and dramatic trail make it elegant enough for a special festive evening.

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10. The Red Family Festive Look Nothing says celebration quite like a classic red Indian ensemble. Deepika’s festive family portrait in a traditional red saree shows how timeless the colour can be, especially when paired with traditional jewellery and a classic bun.

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From vibrant Patola prints to understated ivory, royal purple and timeless red, Deepika Padukone has a traditional look for every kind of festive mood. And as she gears up for two major releases, King and Raaka, her style continues to be just as much a talking point as her screen presence.

Also Read: Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh pregnancy photoshoot wins hearts; fans call couple with daughter Dua a “perfect family”

Triptii Dimri has joined D2C eye-focused beauty brand Peep Beauty as an investor and co-creator. The startup is looking to build a beauty category centred on coloured contact lenses and eye makeup.

According to a statement shared by the company, Dimri has been associated with Peep Beauty from its early stages. As part of her role, she has contributed to the brand’s creative direction, product discussions and storytelling. Her involvement extends beyond her investment, with the actor also participating in conversations around the brand’s overall vision and positioning.

Dimri’s investment comes as part of Peep Beauty’s pre-seed funding round of Rs. 12 crores ($1.2 million). The round was led by Sadev Ventures, with participation from iSeed, ISV and TDV.

The partnership is also built around the idea of creating a beauty brand that places greater focus on the Indian eye. Peep Beauty aims to position coloured contact lenses as part of the broader beauty and self-expression space rather than limiting them to a functional or medical category.

Talking about her association with the brand, Triptii Dimri, Investor & Co-Creator, Peep Beauty, said, “The first thing that struck me about Peep Beauty was that it wasn’t just creating a product; it was creating an entirely new way of thinking about beauty. The eye is one of the most expressive parts of who we are, yet coloured lenses have always been spoken about as a functional or medical category. Peep Beauty changes that conversation. Being part of building a brand from the ground up, contributing creatively, and helping shape its vision made this partnership incredibly exciting for me.”

With Dimri coming on board as an investor and co-creator, Peep Beauty is set to develop its presence in the eye-focused beauty segment while working on products and storytelling aimed at Indian consumers.

Also Read : Triptii Dimri plays ‘Sexy Or Skip It’ for Victoria’s Secret; actress reveals what she finds ‘definitely sexy’

Filmmaker Siddharth P. Malhotra’s upcoming Meena Kumari biopic Kamal Aur Meena has once again drawn attention amid reports about its casting. Saif Ali Khan and Triptii Dimri are reportedly in advanced discussions to play filmmaker Kamal Amrohi and legendary actress Meena Kumari, respectively. However, Malhotra has clarified that the casting details should not be considered official at this stage.

Reacting to the reports, the filmmaker acknowledged the interest surrounding the project but asked the media and audiences to wait for a formal announcement. He said the team is currently working on finalising the cast and other aspects of the film.

“Absolutely touched and delighted by the love and interest around Kamal Aur Meena. But a humble request to the media: please stop the speculation and unconfirmed reports,” Malhotra said.

The director further explained that the team will announce the cast, studio and other details once the necessary agreements have been completed. He also stressed that reports based on incomplete information could affect the film and those involved with it. “Unnecessary conjecture doesn't help the film, the actors or the studios involved,” he added.

Saif Ali Khan and Triptii Dimri reportedly in talks for Kamal Aur Meena? According to the latest reports, Saif Ali Khan and Triptii Dimri are being considered for the central roles of Kamal Amrohi and Meena Kumari. The reported pairing has generated considerable interest given the stature of the real-life personalities at the centre of the story.

Kamal Aur Meena is based on the relationship between Meena Kumari and Kamal Amrohi, who were married and worked together professionally. The project has been in development amid considerable curiosity over who will take on the roles of the celebrated actress and filmmaker.

Before the latest reports surrounding Triptii Dimri, Kiara Advani had also been linked to the project. Reports had suggested that she was being considered for the role of Meena Kumari.

Also Read: Meena Kumari and Kamal Amrohi’s love story to be adapted into film titled Kamal Aur Meena

Actor R Madhavan recently took time off his shooting schedule to attend the US Open quarter-finals at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York City. The actor shared glimpses of his courtside experience on social media, giving fans a look at his interest in sports beyond his film work.

Madhavan was among the celebrities present at the Grand Slam event, where he watched the quarter-final action live from the stadium. Sharing a video from the venue, the actor spoke about the opportunity to watch a top-ranked player compete at the US Open. “Not every day, that you get to see the world number one play at the US Open,” Madhavan said in the video.

The actor appeared to enjoy the atmosphere at Arthur Ashe Stadium as he watched the match from the stands. His social media post captured the excitement around the high-profile tennis fixture, with Madhavan seen taking in the action alongside the spectators.

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R Madhavan Shares His US Open Experience

Madhavan has previously spoken about his interest in sports and often shares glimpses of his personal interests on social media. His latest appearance at the US Open offered fans a different glimpse of the actor as he stepped away from his usual film-related appearances.

The US Open is one of tennis' four Grand Slam tournaments and attracts players and spectators from across the world. Arthur Ashe Stadium, the tournament's main venue, regularly hosts some of the biggest matches on the tennis calendar.

Madhavan's appearance at the quarter-finals also placed him among several international celebrities and public figures who attended the event. The outing comes as the actor continues to balance multiple projects in Indian cinema.

On the work front, Madhavan has been associated with films across Hindi, Tamil and other industries. He was most recently seen in projects including Rocketry: The Nambi Effect, which he also directed and produced, and has continued to take on varied roles across genres.

His latest US Open outing, however, saw the actor step away from the world of cinema for an evening and enjoy one of tennis' biggest events from the stands.

Also Read: R Madhavan reacts to GDN entering fourth week in theatres; says, “Four weeks in, and theatres are still full of people of every age”

Tusshar Kapoor has opened up about the advantages and challenges of being born into a film family, reflecting on the expectations that came with being the son of veteran actor Jeetendra. In an exclusive conversation with The Free Press Journal, the actor acknowledged that a film family can make getting a debut easier, but stressed that sustaining a career and making a film successful remain outside an actor’s control.

Speaking about the pressure associated with being the son of an established star, Tusshar said there is often a greater expectation from actors who come from prominent film families. He said the industry and trade can be particularly critical, with achievements sometimes being viewed through a more demanding lens.

“When you are from a film family, an accomplished star’s son, you know, son of an accomplished star, I mean, then there is an expectation, especially within the film industry or within the trade, where no matter how much you do, the glass is always considered half empty rather than half full. So you have to always surpass yourself. So initially, of course, I had a tough time, you know, trying to ignore the noise that comes with being a star’s son. It’s not a red carpet for sure. Of course, there’s a huge battalion of pull-downers who were waiting for you to fall.” Tusshar Kapoor on blocking out the noise The actor also credited his experience of living independently for helping him deal with the scrutiny surrounding his career. Tusshar said that living abroad and away from his family helped him develop an individual identity and gave him the ability to focus on his work rather than outside opinions.

“But the fact that I’ve lived abroad, lived on my own, and found myself as an individual, living away from family, gave me the strength to really be able to block that noise out, no matter how overwhelming it got at certain points. I used to just block it out and just show up for work, show up for my classes. Yeah. I was training at that point. I would show up for work and just try to do my thing in my own way, in my track, and not focus on whatever is being said or what is being written. And then the film spoke for itself.” "You get your first break" Tusshar acknowledged that having a family connection to the film industry can provide an entry point that may be harder for outsiders to access. However, he emphasised that getting a debut does not automatically translate into success.

“So yes, it’s an Agneepath in a sense but one has to be grateful that, you know, getting your first film is easier when you are from a family that belongs to the film fraternity. You get your first break. But us film ko complete karna, us film ko logon ke saamne tak lana, aur film ka chalna, woh aapke haath mein nahin hai. So that’s the only advantage we have with all these disadvantages; that’s the only advantage we have: that you get a break. You are more accessible to people who want to launch star sons.”

Tusshar made his acting debut with Jeena Sirf Merre Liye in 2002 and has since worked across comedy, drama and other genres in Hindi cinema. His latest comments reflect on the continuing conversation around privilege, expectations and the challenges of building an identity within the film industry.

Also Read: Tusshar Kapoor opens up on 50 vanity vans at Welcome To The Jungle set: “Is it really justified?”

The popularity of Guddu Pandit, played by Ali Fazal in the Mirzapur franchise, continues to grow as fans find new ways to show their connection with the character. With Mirzapur: The Movie currently running in theatres, the character’s fandom has extended beyond social media posts and fan edits, with some admirers now getting tattoos inspired by Guddu Bhaiya.

Over the years, Guddu Pandit has influenced fan-created content, hairstyles, fashion choices, videos and edits. The latest expression of fandom has seen fans getting tattoos inspired by Ali Fazal’s character, reflecting the impact Guddu has had on the audience.

Ali Fazal, who has played Guddu Pandit across the franchise, said he feels touched by the continued response to the character, particularly after Guddu made the transition from the streaming series to the big screen.

Talking about the response, Ali Fazal says, “Honestly, I am extremely touched and overwhelmed by the love Guddu Bhaiya continues to receive. To see how the fandom has grown over the years and now multiplied even more after Mirzapur The Movie came to theatres is incredibly humbling. People have connected with Guddu in ways I could never have imagined, and seeing fans take that love to the extent of getting tattoos inspired by him is truly surreal. Guddu belongs to the audience as much as he belongs to me now. I am deeply grateful for all the love, and the fact that the film is doing so well at the box office makes this journey even more special.”

Guddu Pandit’s growing popularity highlights the lasting impact of the Mirzapur franchise and its characters. What started as a character from a streaming series has now reached a wider theatrical audience, with Guddu continuing to remain a prominent part of the franchise’s identity.

As Mirzapur: The Movie continues its theatrical run and receives a positive response from audiences, Ali Fazal is also reflecting on the character’s journey. The film’s performance has expanded the Mirzapur universe to the big screen while further highlighting the connection audiences have developed with Guddu Pandit over the years.

Also Read : Trade predicts Mirzapur The Movie can EASILY enter Rs. 200 crore club: “Rs. 10 cr+ Monday after a HUGE holiday weekend is a remarkable achievement”

Orhan Awatramani, popularly known as Orry, has been eliminated from Khatron Ke Khiladi Season 15. Following his exit from the stunt-based reality show, Orry took to Instagram to reflect on his experience and open up about the struggles that often remain hidden behind his glamorous public image.

Known for his appearances at parties and his pictures with Bollywood celebrities, Orry said that social media often presents only the most polished version of a person’s life. Sharing several glimpses from his time on Khatron Ke Khiladi 15, he wrote, “We are educated to put only the shiniest, most pretty, perfectly curated moments on our feed. Everyone knows me as the boy who is always at a party, always with celebrities, always extremely opulently glamorous and ‘has everything easy', an image of the dream life drowning in immense happiness and privilege, never a worry in sight.” He went on to explain that there is more to his life than what people see online. “Nobody sees beyond that – the chaos, the struggle, the hustle, the hard work, the grit, and the days your head is literally locked in a box of rats. People think living a glamorous life means you've never faced hardship, but one cannot build resilience on fluff.” During his stint on the show, Orry participated in several challenging stunts and pushed himself through difficult tasks. Reflecting on his determination, he said, “You don't face your fears like this if your life was always easy and smooth sailing. I pushed to make it this far because I've fought through unpretty parts never meant for the feed, with nightmares fueling me to prove my grit beyond the grid,” he wrote. Orry also expressed gratitude for being part of Khatron Ke Khiladi 15, describing the experience as an opportunity to reveal different sides of his personality. “It has been an honour to participate in a 0 bias show that objectively brings out every single shade of who I actually am. The many many many shiny and sparkly parts as well as dead and damaged ones. Because that is also part of who I am.” Also Read : Orry keeps Salman Khan’s picture beside his bed; says the superstar gave his career a much-needed kick-sta

Rani Mukerji was honoured with the Raj Kapoor Special Contribution Award at the 62nd Maharashtra State Film Awards ceremony held in Mumbai on Wednesday. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis presented the award to the actor in the presence of Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar and members of the film fraternity.

The award recognises Rani’s contribution to Indian cinema and her long-standing association with Mumbai and Maharashtra. Born and brought up in Mumbai, the actor has built a career spanning several decades, with films including Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Hum Tum, Bunty Aur Babli, Black, Talaash, Hichki and Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway among her credits.

While accepting the honour, Rani spoke about her connection with Maharashtra and described the state as an important part of both her personal and professional journey. She said, "Majhyasathi Maharashtra fakt ek rajya nahi. "Maharashtra majhi janmabhoomi aahe. Majhi karmabhoomi aahe. Ani majhya ayushyacha ek avibhajya bhaag aahe (For me, Maharashtra is not just a state. Maharashtra is my birthplace. It is the land where I built my career. And it is an inseparable part of my life)."

Talking about Mumbai’s role in her life, Rani added, "Mumbai has given me my identity. It has given me an audience. It has given me a career. And it has been my home, my safe place, my everything. So this award will hold a very special place in my heart because whenever I look at it, I will not just see an award. I will see my Mumbai, my Maharashtra."

Rani also reflected on the kind of characters she has chosen throughout her career. "I have always silently worked to represent the powerful girls and women of India through cinema that has its heart in the right place."

She further said, "I chose characters that felt truthful, that I felt instinctively drawn towards for their story, their journey and their resilience. Characters who had courage. Characters who had flaws. Characters who refused to disappear into the background. Women who were never waiting for someone else to rescue them."

Concluding her remarks, Rani said, "I have never considered cinema merely a profession. For me, cinema is a deep emotion. And Maharashtra is the home of that emotion."

Also Read : Rani Mukerji becomes second Indian film personality after Shah Rukh Khan to receive La Trobe Honorary Doctorate

Veteran actor Sharat Saxena, known for his memorable villainous and supporting roles in Hindi cinema, has shared pictures from an MRI session ahead of his upcoming surgery. The actor, who was recently seen in Ajay Devgn-starrer Son of Sardaar 2, posted four pictures from the MRI room on social media, prompting fans and well-wishers to express concern and wish him a speedy recovery.

Saxena shared the pictures shortly before undergoing surgery. The photographs show the actor undergoing an MRI while standing, with visible discomfort on his face.

Sharat Saxena undergoes MRI while standing

Sharing the pictures, Sharat Saxena revealed that the MRI was conducted ahead of his lumbar spine surgery. He wrote in the caption, “Standing mri before lumbar spine surgery at Bombay Hospital.”

Following his post, several fans and well-wishers took to the comments section to wish the veteran actor well and pray for his recovery. Saxena also responded to the messages and thanked everyone for their support. He wrote, “Thank you all for the good wishes. I hope I will be able to walk properly and work again. Thank you all.”

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Sharat Saxena’s film career

Sharat Saxena has been part of the Hindi film industry for several decades. After completing an engineering degree, he reportedly chose acting instead of pursuing a conventional career. Convincing his father to support his decision was initially difficult, but his family eventually accepted his choice.

Over the course of his career, Saxena has reportedly worked in more than 250 films across Hindi, Telugu, Malayalam and Tamil cinema. He appeared as Daga, one of Mogambo’s associates, in the 1987 film Mr. India.

He has also taken on a variety of roles, including comic characters and father figures. In Salman Khan’s Bajrangi Bhaijaan, he played Kareena Kapoor Khan’s father. He was also seen as Tota Seth in the Hera Pheri franchise, adding a comic element to the film. His other notable films include Tridev, Ghayal, Khiladi, Soldier and Baghban.

The casting of Siddharth P Malhotra’s upcoming period biopic Kamal Aur Meena has been a subject of speculation for several months, with Kiara Advani’s name being linked to the role of legendary actor Meena Kumari. While the filmmaker has not yet revealed the identities of his actors, he has confirmed that the principal cast has been finalised.

Malhotra, who directed Maharaj (2024), is gearing up to tell the story of Meena Kumari and filmmaker Kamal Amrohi’s relationship in Kamal Aur Meena. Speaking to Mid-Day, the director confirmed that his leads have already agreed to be part of the project.

“I have put together my cast. They have said yes,” said Malhotra. He explained that finalising the actors was a lengthy process, largely because the scale and subject of the film required established names. “It’s Meena Kumari’s story officially. If you don’t get stars, you won’t be able to mount the film,” he added.

The filmmaker has not confirmed whether Kiara will portray Meena Kumari, despite the ongoing reports linking her to the role. The identity of the actor playing Kamal Amrohi has also been kept under wraps. Kamal Aur Meena demands a large-scale production With the casting reportedly locked, Malhotra’s immediate priority is securing the finances for the ambitious project. The filmmaker acknowledged that recreating the world associated with Meena Kumari will require considerable resources.

“The film requires us to put up the Pakeezah [1972] and Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam [1962] set. Plus, [we need] the songs’ rights. So, automatically the bar is high,” he said.

Kamal Aur Meena will be produced by Bilal Amrohi and will explore the relationship between Meena Kumari and Kamal Amrohi. The project is expected to revisit an important chapter in the life of one of Hindi cinema’s most celebrated performers.

Meanwhile, Malhotra is currently occupied with promoting Shaque: Trust No One. The Netflix series stars Parineeti Chopra in her OTT debut and is scheduled to begin streaming on September 24, 2026.

Also Read: Pakeezah 4K Restoration to premiere at Festival Lumière and BFI London Film Festival; Meena Kumari classic gets new lease of life

The team of Hanuman Ansh is on cloud nine and Namrata Singh of SacredIP Trans Media Tech is no exception. She is one of the investors, producers and IP owners of the devotional film, which has become a historic success. Earlier, she worked at Sony Pictures, Friday Filmworks, Yash Raj Films and on the cult TV show, Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah. She has also worked on digital voter enablement campaigns with the Government of India and on Kumbh mobilization as part of Ministry of Commerce last year. In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, Namrata Singh spoke about Hanuman Ansh's miraculous success and a lot more.

Hanuman Ansh released exactly a month ago, on August 7. Did you imagine last month that your life will change this way? Not at all (laughs)! On August 6, we did the premiere. On August 7, I went to Delhi to my home to be with my mother. On August 8, we were doing theatre visits. Nobody was coming to watch our film in the theatre! We had no audience. We then sent underprivileged kids and cancer kids. In fact, some 3000 kids saw the film in the first week, funded by Team Computers, who are the distributors of Apple. One such screening happened at PVR Promenade Vasant Kunj where I was present. The kids loved the film. That is my memory of August 8 (smiles).

How do you look at the way the film has achieved success? This is an unprecedented kind of a situation, right? You can't plan it. We made a film with all our heart and whatever we could gather. The craziness began from the third week. Now Hombale Films has come to do the international release. When you release overseas, there are multiple things to take care of. Moreover, I am a first time producer while Vishal Chaturvedi is a first time writer-director. Hence, we are all learning in the go how to release the film internationally. The amount of censor processes to be done and assets to be created were overwhelming. We are also devotees and it's very important for us to release overseas on September 11 because it is Mahasamadhi day for Maharaj ji. That's the day Maharaj ji left his body in 1973. Hence, the race against time to release on September 11 ne poori jaan le li! Thankfully, we managed and the release is happening this Friday.

I am an IP expert. I am ex-Sony ex-YRF. So, I understand IP really well. We have retained the IP. I, Vishal, Ragini S and Anupriya A Nagar have the rights.

We are also developing a game. It's made by the company which has developed FAU-G. We are also working on a comic book, for which we are talking to one of the biggest comic book publishers in the country.

I am not a traditional producer. So, I don't think that film bana di, ab part 2 aur part 3 banao. When we made this film, we were very clear that we'll take this film to 1% of the population. The main emotion in the movie is calmness. There's so much external chaos and ambiguity in the world as eras have changed. From industrial, we have entered the knowledge era. Hence, you need to find areas which are calm and where you'll feel courage and hope. That is what this film is about.

I keep saying this that Maharaj ji is the world's CTO! He gave us Facebook, he gave us Apple (Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook is a devotee of Neeb Karori Baba and so was late Steve Jobs of Apple)! He is also the world's doctor. He helped eradicate small pox through Larry Brilliant. So, healing can happen in multiple ways. Doctors can heal, so do human stories. Technology can be humanized.

To answer your question, what is happening is just Maharaj Ji's kripa and grace. The audience is completely on the film and hence, it's amazing. Hence, the 1% dream now looks possible. Agar aap picture na dekhe, toh game khel le. Game na khele toh gaane sun le, gaane na sune toh comic book padh le. We are even dubbing the film in South languages. Trivikram Srinivas (of Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo fame) is on board for the Telugu version. Times Spiritual is our music partner. They are supporting us fully on music. Cinepolis, our distributors, have also supported us.

I was talking to Devang Sampat and Mayank Shroff of Cinepolis and suggested that if we can convert cinemas into temples, distribute laddoos, play 'Hanuman Chalisa', place a picture of Baba ji, etc. At first, we couldn't do it but now, that's happening everywhere.

There's too much work. No one ever told me that it's so hard (laughs)! Of course, I am not complaining.

What will be the overseas screen count? We'll get an idea by Wednesday, September 9. But Hombale Films are extremely ambitious. Phars Film, who release YRF movies and many other biggies, are also on board. Every territory has a major sub distributor along with Hombale.

Has there been any update on the OTT release? I don't think like a producer. I think like an IP owner. Everything we do is for the devotee, ensuring we keep the emotion intact. We can't cheat with it. Like we are developing a game based on the film and it's about Hanuman kavach. It is in sync with the film's truth. I could have gone with anybody but I went with the partner that understands it.

Similarly, we went with Hombale Films as they understood the value of September 11 release for the devotee. They were ready to work day and night for it. Down South, we chose Trivikram Srinivas as they are devotees of Hanuman ji. So, such energetic alignment happening is like Maharaj ji's work. He's connecting us with the right people.

Of course, everybody is talking to us (for OTT rights). But I keep saying that my objective is to make the maximum amount of people see the film in their language. Language shouldn't be a barrier. The partners need to come with that intent. It's not about the best offer. It's about the person who gets your sensibility.

Also Read: Trade experts talk about Hanuman Ansh’s HISTORIC run: “Abhi toh bas shuruaat hai. Even Rs. 300 cr or Rs. 400 cr lifetime can’t be ruled out…it can collect more in Week 6 than Week 5”

After several years away from the silver screen, Preity Zinta returned to acting with Rajkumar Santoshi’s Batwara 1947. The period drama, which also stars Sunny Deol, was released theatrically on August 14, 2026, during the Independence Day weekend. However, despite its ensemble cast and the significance of its subject, the film received decent-to-mixed reviews and did not make a significant impact at the box office.

Speaking exclusively to Mid-Day, Preity opened up about the film’s performance and whether its box office underperformance affected her. The actor maintained that she remains proud of the project and believes an actor can only control the effort they put into a film, rather than its eventual reception.

She said, "First of all, I am very proud of the film, and it's a very overwhelming experience. And as an actor, I am always managing expectations. Once I am working, I put in my 100 per cent. As I said earlier, I believe in karam (deed). You do your karam and then leave the rest to god. You can't control what happens. So, you work as hard as you can on every film; I give my 1000 per cent and then leave the rest to God."

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What is Batwara 1947 about? Directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, Batwara 1947 is set in Lahore during the Partition of British India. The film is adapted from Asghar Wajahat’s acclaimed play Jis Lahore Nai Vekhya, O Jamya E Nai and centres on a Muslim refugee family that moves from India to Lahore after Partition.

Sunny Deol plays the head of the refugee family, who is allotted a haveli in Lahore. However, the family discovers that an elderly Hindu woman, played by Shabana Azmi, continues to live in the house. The story explores how the two communities navigate their circumstances, while focusing on humanity, empathy and resilience amid the upheaval caused by Partition.

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The film features Preity Zinta, Sunny Deol, Shabana Azmi, Ali Fazal, Karan Deol and Abhimanyu Singh, who plays the antagonist Yaqoob Pehalwan. The music has been composed by A. R. Rahman, with lyrics by Javed Akhtar, while Santosh Sivan serves as the cinematographer.

Also Read: Preity Zinta on working 16-18 hour shifts for Vibe amid 8-hour workday debate: “I wanted to finish my work and go back to America to be with my kids…didn’t go out even for one evening”