Indus Chronicles

After her viral appearance in October, Nora Fatehi returns to Paris Fashion Week. She is set to attend the Louis Vuitton Men’s Spring-Summer 2026 collection by Pharrell Williams, marking her presence at one of fashion’s major global events.

She posted a video on her Instagram story, whispering, “We are on our way for fittings and LV and we are going to kill it this time just like last year, we are going to do an ASMR of our fittings. Are you ready?” setting the tone for another fashion moment.

Her last appearance at Paris Fashion Week drew attention for her white body-con dress paired with a statement trench coat, a look that sparked conversation and gained widespread visibility online.

Now, as she returns to the fashion capital, Nora is set to make another appearance that reflects her evolving style. Her presence at Paris Fashion Week highlights her continued efforts to represent India on the global stage.

Fashion isn’t the only space Nora Fatehi is active in. Her international music collaboration Snake with Jason Derulo has crossed 130 million views. She also appeared at the American Music Awards in a custom Tom Ford look and wore Oscar de la Renta at the Vanity Fair Oscar After Party. From Billboard features to a presence in Allure, Nora Fatehi’s return to Paris Fashion Week reflects her ongoing engagement with both fashion and global entertainment.

Also Read: Sonakshi Sinha highlights why middle-class families are avoiding cinemas: “The theatre-going experience has become very expensive for a regular family”

The stage is set for Kannappa, Vishnu Manchu’s long-awaited mythological epic, as advance bookings officially open today in North America and on June 25 in India. Slated to hit theatres worldwide on Friday, June 27, the film is poised for one of the biggest ever global openings for a Telugu-language film — and possibly the first devotional drama to aim for a ₹100-crore day-one gross.

Boasting a massive rollout on 5,400+ screens globally, Kannappa is being touted as a pan-India spiritual spectacle with international appeal. The film will screen in over 4,300 locations across India, including all major premium formats, and over 1,100 locations overseas, with the U.S. hosting 200+ premiere shows — a record-breaking number for a devotional Telugu film. “Our aim is to bring Bhakta Kannappa’s devotion to every home,” says lead actor-producer Vishnu Manchu. “If audiences feel the love we poured in, the numbers will follow.”

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Directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh, Kannappa weaves the legendary tale of Bhakta Kannappa and features Akshay Kumar as Lord Shiva, alongside star cameos from Mohanlal, Prabhas, and others. The film’s high production values are supported by Wētā Workshop’s VFX and a soundtrack composed by Stephen Devassy. Industry insiders suggest that strong distributor advances, robust corporate bookings, and momentum on ticketing platforms like BookMyShow, PayTM Movies, Fandango, and Atom Tickets point toward a historic opening weekend. The Rs 100-crores global opening day mark is within reach — an unprecedented feat for a devotional genre film.

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Key Dates:

Advance Bookings in North America: Open from Monday, June 23

Advance Bookings in India: Open from Wednesday, June 25

Worldwide Release: Friday, June 27

Also Read: Akshay Kumar praises Vishnu Manchu’s devotion to Kannappa: “He’s truly lived and breathed this film”

Finally, you’re moving ahead after Karan Johar’s Jigra? Yes, finally! It’s been a long wait, but it’s all been worth it. It’s a dream to be working with Imtiaz sir.

How did Imtiaz Ali come into the picture? I had a meeting with him a long time ago, after my debut series The Archies released. It was just a casual, friendly conversation. Then, almost a year or year-and-a-half later, we met again, and he discussed the idea for this story. I was very excited.

Have you seen Imtiaz Ali’s films? I’ve seen all of them, except his first — Socha Na Tha. Rockstar and Chamkila are probably my favourites. But Jab We Met, Tamasha — they’re all classics. He understands human emotions and dilemmas like no one else, and he presents them so poetically on screen.

Your debut was directed by Zoya Akhtar, your second is a Karan Johar production, and now Imtiaz Ali... Are you pleased with your progress so far? Yes. I’m keeping my head down and working hard. I understand the responsibility that comes with being part of an Imtiaz Ali film — especially in an ensemble of this calibre. I take it upon myself to do justice to the role and deliver, no excuses. I have a fire in me, and I’m motivated like never before.

Your co-star in Imtiaz Ali’s film is Naseeruddin Shah. Isn’t that daunting? Daunting and exciting. I’ve watched hours of Naseer Saab’s lectures on the craft of acting. I took notes as a young actor trying to understand the process — I still have those notes! I told him that the first time I met him. It’s truly an honour.

Are you prepping for the film already? Prep has begun to some degree. We’ve had some look tests. Shooting should start in August.

Also Read: Vedang Raina on turning 25, “I share my birthday with my mom, she says my birth was her best birthday gift”

The fan screening of Raanjhanaa (2013) was held at a multiplex in Mumbai on the occasion of its 12th anniversary by DIY Solutions and was attended by the film’s team – actors Dhanush and Mohd Zeeshan Ayyub, then-child-actor Naman Jain, director Aanand L Rai, writer Himanshu Sharma and lyricist Irshad Kamil. Sonam Kapoor couldn’t make it and the team kept a picture of her on the seat. The event began with the screening of the film after which stand-up comic Devansh Singh entertained the crowd. Laksh Maheshwari, then, in his trademark style narrated the film’s story and also hosted the talk. Dhanush opened up on several fascinating aspects of the film, which were not known to the world.

Towards the last leg of the event, Dhanush said, “Raanjhanaa is the story of two mad men (Aanand L Rai and Himanshu Sharma). They had made a film before – Tanu Weds Manu (2011). They believed in something that was close to impossible. At that time, they didn’t have the right kind of budget for hiring me as the lead actor. But this man’s (Aanand L Rai) passion was so strong that he just wanted me to play Kundan. He could have offered any actor this part and they would have happily come on board. After all, it’s such a great part. But he went against all odds. I don’t know I am supposed to say this and I don’t care! He invested his own money as well. He went all out (to cast me). He saw Kundan in me and he stayed true to his vision. Himanshu and Aanand somehow convinced me to play the role. The only reason I wasn’t convinced was due to the language barrier. Otherwise, I loved the part.”

He remarked, “They made a cult classic. It is not the story of Kundan and Zoya. It is the story of two mad men who believed in this.”

Dhanush continued, “By the grace of Mahadev, this film worked, and they survived (laughs). I was so scared. I was not scared during my first film. When I was written off, I was not scared. That’s how I am. But for the first time, I was scared. I felt responsible. So, I was praying so hard to God that ‘Somehow save this man’. June 21, the day Raanjhanaa was released, was my son’s birthday. He’s here among you, by the way!”

The crowd got excited and tried to locate him. Dhanush added, “I was not even there in the city (Chennai) with (my family when the film was released). I was in Mumbai, in the pooja room and was praying for this man. 12 years later, we are here with all of you. I thank you and all the Raanjhanaa fans all over the world. Har Har Mahadev!”

Also Read: Raanjhanaa fan screening: Dhanush jokes “Be it in North or South, all boys are the same”: reveals why he and writer Himanshu Sharma wanted to “KILL each other”: “I was ANGRY with him as I used to dub Tamil films in a day while dubbing for Raanjhanaa took 8-9 days”

The trailer for Sardaar Ji 3 has stirred headlines after headlines with its unexpected casting and release strategy. Released on social media by Diljit Dosanjh, the two-minute glimpse confirms that Pakistani actress Hania Aamir plays a prominent role alongside Diljit and Neeru Bajwa, reprising her character as a ghost hunter in the UK-set horror-comedy.

However, the trailer reveals a notable rift in distribution plans: the film is set to skip theatrical release in India and will premiere only in overseas markets starting June 27. When fans in India attempt to view the trailer on YouTube, they encounter a geo-block message notifying them of its restricted availability.

The decision follows mounting political tensions after the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack and India’s retaliatory “Operation Sindoor.” Industry bodies like the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) had urged the CBFC to withhold certification for Sardaar Ji 3, citing concerns over Pakistani actors' inclusion. Faced with potential bans and protests, the filmmakers appear to have chosen a safer overseas-only release strategy.

Adding further context, an earlier report suggested that Hania Aamir might be removed from the project due to the growing backlash. Yet Diljit’s trailer release quashes those rumors, showing Hania still firmly in her role.

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The Sardaar Ji franchise, launched in 2015 by Rohit Jugraj Chauhan, has earned a cult following as one of Punjabi cinema’s first fantasy-horror comedies. In its third installment, directed by Amar Hundal, Diljit and Hania lead a team of demon-fighters in a spooky UK mansion, with co-stars Neeru Bajwa, Gulshan Grover, Jasmin Bajwa, Manav Vij, and others rounding out the cast.

Reactions online have been mixed. Some fans applaud Diljit and Hania’s on-screen chemistry and the film’s overseas reach, others have voiced disappointment, accusing Diljit of ignoring national sentiment. “Was really excited for this movie but not anymore. Nation is always 1st priority over anyone,” wrote an Instagram user, while another asserted, “I'm really proud of you but I really love my country first.”

Also Read: Operation Sindoor: Fawad Khan, Hania Aamir, and other Pakistani actors slam India’s military strikes, call it “cowardly”

The admiration for Aamir Khan’s latest release, Sitaare Zameen Par, continues to pour in from across the film industry. Actor Mahesh Babu is the latest to join the growing list of voices hailing the film, calling it a deeply moving experience.

Taking to social media, Mahesh wrote, “#SitaareZameenPar… Shines so bright and how… It’ll make you laugh, cry and clap!! Like all Aamir Khan’s classics, you’ll walk out with a big smile on your face…”

#SitaareZameenPar …Shines so bright and how…..It’ll make you laugh, cry and clap!! Like all Aamir Khan’s classics, you’ll walk out with a big smile on your face… Love and Respect..♥️♥️♥️#AamirKhan @geneliad @r_s_prasanna @AKPPL_Official @ShankarEhsanLoy #AmitabhBhattacharya… — Mahesh Babu (@urstrulyMahesh) June 22, 2025

Mahesh’s words resonate with the sentiment shared earlier by veteran screenwriter and lyricist Javed Akhtar, who had tweeted after the film’s strong box office showing on Day 2: “So happy to learn about the record leap that Sitaare Zameen Par has taken at the box office on the second day. Who says good films have no takers in the audience. Congratulations to Aamir Khan and his team.”

So happy to learn about the record leap that sitaaray Zameen per has taken at the box office on the second day . Who says good films have no takers in the audience. Congratulations to Aamir khan and his team . — Javed Akhtar (@Javedakhtarjadu) June 22, 2025

Speaking of the film, Sitaare Zameen Par, a film that serves as a spiritual successor to the critically acclaimed Taare Zameen Par (2007), is directed by R.S. Prasanna and produced by Aamir Khan Productions. The social-comedy film takes forward Aamir’s legacy of combining storytelling with social sensitivity.

Khan is paired opposite Genelia Deshmukh and is supported by a remarkable ensemble cast that includes Dolly Ahluwalia, Gurpal Singh, Brijendra Kala, and Ankita Sehgal. But the heart of the film lies in its introduction of ten debutant actors with intellectual disabilities: Aroush Datta, Gopi Krishnan Varma, Vedant Sharmaa, Naman Misra, Rishi Shahani, Rishabh Jain, Ashish Pendse, Samvit Desai, Simran Mangeshkar, and Aayush Bhansali.

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Also Read: Javed Akhtar congratulates Aamir Khan, applauds box office leap of Sitaare Zameen Par: “Who says good films have no takers in the audience”

There’s no denying the deep-rooted mutual respect between veteran lyricist-screenwriter Javed Akhtar and actor-filmmaker Aamir Khan. Their bond, built over decades of creative synergy and shared cinematic values, was once again on display when Akhtar took to social media to congratulate Khan on the strong box office performance of his latest film, Sitaare Zameen Par.

“So happy to learn about the record leap that Sitaare Zameen Par has taken at the box office on the second day. Who says good films have no takers in the audience? Congratulations to Aamir Khan and his team,” tweeted Akhtar, applauding the film’s growing momentum among audiences.

So happy to learn about the record leap that sitaaray Zameen per has taken at the box office on the second day . Who says good films have no takers in the audience. Congratulations to Aamir khan and his team . — Javed Akhtar (@Javedakhtarjadu) June 22, 2025

Earlier this year in March, PVR INOX announced a special film festival titled Aamir Khan: Cinema Ka Jadugar, celebrating the superstar’s illustrious contribution to Indian cinema ahead of his 60th birthday on March 14, 2025. The trailer launch event for the festival was graced by none other than Javed Akhtar, further underlining the warmth and admiration shared between the two.

Their long-standing association also features moments of creative disagreement, which both have acknowledged with grace and humour. In a recent episode of Aap Ki Adalat, Aamir recalled how Javed Akhtar had once advised him against making Lagaan. When asked if Javed Akhtar had discouraged the project, Aamir responded: "Haan, unhone aisa kaha tha. Lekin ye unka badappan hai ki unhone na sirf is baat ko maana, balki kain jagah is kisse ko sunaya bhi."

जावेद अख्तर ने आमिर खान को फिल्म 'लगान' करने से क्यों किया था मना ? @RajatSharmaLive @AKPPL_Official #AapKiAdalat #IndiaTV #AamirKhanInAapKiAdalat #AapKiAdalat #AamirKhan #SitaareZameenPar pic.twitter.com/pBbAlNB0Ed

— India TV (@indiatvnews) June 14, 2025

He added that Akhtar was skeptical about a film set in a village with a hero in a dhoti and songs with themes reminiscent of the Ramayana. According to Akhtar, back then, Lagaan had "all the qualities of a flop film." But history proved otherwise — Lagaan not only became a box office success but also a landmark in Indian cinema, both commercially and critically.

Coming back to Sitaare Zameen Par, directed by RS Prasanna under the banner of Aamir Khan Productions, it was released on June 20. The film also stars Genelia Deshmukh.

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Also Read: Cinemas praise Aamir Khan for releasing Sitaare Zameen Par only in cinemas but upset with release strategy; 700-800 single screens not provided the film despite commitment; no show in ICONIC Raj Mandir Jaipur raises eyebrows

A heartfelt letter from the Elite Games Federation has gone viral on social media after the organization formally requested the Government of Maharashtra to grant tax-free status to the latest release, Aamir Khan starrer Sitaare Zameen Par. In a powerful appeal, the Federation emphasized the film’s core message of empathy, awareness, and inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Taking to public platforms, the Federation wrote, “This film is not only a cinematic creation but a heartfelt tribute to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It spreads awareness, promotes empathy, and encourages inclusivity — values we, as a society, must collectively uphold and champion.”

The Elite Games Federation, a registered not-for-profit under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India, is known for promoting sports and supporting para-athletes across the country. The letter further highlighted the organization’s mission to uplift specially-abled communities and expressed its alignment with the themes explored in Sitaare Zameen Par. “Declaring it tax-free in Maharashtra will ensure that it reaches a wider audience, particularly schools, colleges, NGOs, and families who will benefit from its message,” the letter added.

Directed by R. S. Prasanna and jointly produced by Aamir Khan and Aparna Purohit, Sitaare Zameen Par hit theatres on June 20, 2025. The sports comedy-drama stars Aamir Khan and Genelia Deshmukh in lead roles and serves as a spiritual successor to Khan’s 2007 classic Taare Zameen Par. It is the official remake of the Spanish film Champions (2018).

"#SitaareZameenPar is not just entertainment – it is a moving portrayal of the abilities, struggles & dreams of children with intellectual & developmental disabilities. It aligns perfectly with our mission to promote inclusion in sports and society, especially for para-athletes". pic.twitter.com/Ghv51P8BRS — Kate Wordy (@KateWordy) June 21, 2025

The film follows the story of a hot-headed basketball coach (played by Khan) who, after being suspended, is sentenced to community service. Tasked with training a team of athletes with disabilities for an upcoming tournament, he embarks on a journey of personal transformation and discovers the power of empathy, resilience, and teamwork.

Given its sensitive yet uplifting narrative, Sitaare Zameen Par has been lauded by audiences and advocacy groups alike. The viral request from the Elite Games Federation has only amplified the conversation around the film’s societal relevance. The government is yet to respond, but support for the tax-free demand continues to grow online, with fans, educators, and disability rights activists echoing the call.

Also Read: BREAKING: After Sitaare Zameen Par’s HISTORIC Saturday jump, several multiplexes add post-midnight shows at 1:00 am and 3:00 am

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has once again sparked headlines — this time not for his trademark wit or upcoming releases, but for an honest revelation about his ongoing health battles. Appearing on The Great Indian Kapil Show, the actor candidly spoke about the physical toll years of action cinema have taken on him, revealing a series of serious medical conditions he continues to work through.

In a moment that took fans and even host Kapil Sharma by surprise, Salman Khan said, “So hum ye jitni bhi haddiyan tudva rahe hai, pasliyan toot gayi, trigeminal neuralgia tha uske bawajud kaam kare, aneurysm hai brain mein uske bawajud kaam kar rahe hai, AV malformations hai, uske bawajud chal rahe hai… Action, yaha se kudna, waha se girna, chalne ko nahi ho raha, dance kar rahe hai… ye sab chal raha hai… aur jaha unka mood satka, woh aadha humara le kar chala gaya. (We’ve been breaking bones, my ribs are fractured, I had trigeminal neuralgia but kept working, I have a brain aneurysm and yet continue, I have AV malformations and I’m still going… Action scenes, jumping from here, falling there — even when I can’t walk, I dance… All of this is happening — and the day my mood snapped, it took half of me with it)”

The revelation gave fans a glimpse into the immense physical hardship Salman has endured while continuing to work on high-octane films, often packed with action and dance sequences. Despite the gravity of his conditions — including trigeminal neuralgia (a chronic pain condition), brain aneurysm, and arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) — the actor emphasized his commitment to his craft.

This isn't the first time Salman’s candid moments on the show have gone viral. As reported earlier by Bollywood Hungama, the actor previously made headlines for his tongue-in-cheek comments on marriage and divorce, saying: “Shaadi aur divorce dono hi nahi hue... inke wajah se kaafi paise bach gaye (I am neither married nor divorced, so saved a lot of money there).”

With each appearance, Salman Khan continues to balance humour, vulnerability, and stardom — making his episodes on The Great Indian Kapil Show a trending staple for fans and viewers alike.

Also Read: Salman Khan shares unheard story behind his iconic Tere Naam look; says, “Tere Naam ka look hai, woh actually inspired tha Abdul Kalam saab se tha”

The fan screening of Raanjhanaa (2013) was held at a multiplex in Mumbai on the occasion of its 12th anniversary by DIY Solutions and was attended by the film’s team – actors Dhanush and Mohd Zeeshan Ayyub, then-child-actor Naman Jain, director Aanand L Rai, writer Himanshu Sharma and lyricist Irshad Kamil. Sonam Kapoor couldn’t make it and the team kept a picture of her on the seat. The event began with the screening of the film after which stand-up comic Devansh Singh entertained the crowd. Laksh Maheshwari, then, in his trademark style narrated the film’s story and also hosted the talk. Amid news of the amusing and unjustified cuts asked by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) for the latest release, the Aamir Khan-starrer Sitaare Zameen Par, the talk veered towards the situation 12 years ago. Was Raanjhanaa also censored? If yes, then how much? After all, we can see that certain abuses were retained but, in some scenes, the cuss words were beeped.

Aanand L Rai explained, “Now, the intention with which you make is of paramount importance. I can’t reveal the discussion I had with the Censor Board at that time. Hum phone pe gaaliyaan discuss kar rahe the! There was even a lady in their team. We were openly discussing, ‘Yeh gaali hum teen baar rakh dete hai. Itne c-word important nahin hai. Yeh do rakh lo’!”

He continued, “I realized that there was a reason behind those abuses. Hence, I was able to freely mention those words without hesitation in front of them. Even today, if I apply such a film to the Censor Board aur agar meri neeyat saaf hai, I am sure Raanjhanaa would have been cleared in the same way!”

Meanwhile, a female fan expressed regret over the fact that the character of Bindiya (Swara Bhasker) got a raw deal. She loved Kundan (Dhanush) with all her heart and ideally, they both should have ended up together. She asked Aanand L Rai, “Why did you do this to Bindiya?” The filmmaker patiently heard her and answered her question by saying, “Taaki aapko woh character yaad rahein!” The host also asked the audience, at this point, to cheer for Swara for her stupendous performance along with that of Abhay Deol.

Also Read: 12 Years of Raanjhanaa: Aanand L Rai recalls the scene that was never in the script; says, “The emotion was always a part of the script, but the visual was not”

Sitaare Zameen Par has managed to do the unthinkable. The advance booking wasn’t upto the mark and the makers, in a unique strategy, decided not to have shows before 11:00 am on the day of release, possibly to avoid negativity over poor occupancy in these shows. The film opened at Rs. 10 crores, which was a fair opening but below par for a star like Aamir Khan. However, the positive word of mouth along with the credibility that Aamir enjoys has finally come into play. The film jumped dramatically on Saturday. The shows of Sunday also began to get full and looking at the demand, the multiplexes had to add post-midnight shows.

The trend of having shows at 1:00 am, 2:00 am and 3:00 am is a post-pandemic phenomenon. The 2021 Diwali biggie Sooryavanshi was the first film to have such shows at night. Later, Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022), Drishyam 2 (2022), Gadar 2 (2023), Animal (2023), Pathaan (2023), Jawan (2023), Stree 2 (2024), Chhaava (2025) etc. also got shows allotted at the unearthly hour due to huge turnout. Hence, these shows became synonymous with the fact that the film is doing exceedingly well.

Some of the theatres in Mumbai which added post-midnight shows of Sitaare Zameen Par to cope with the demand are PVR Oberoi Mall Goregaon (1:00 am), PVR Lower Parel (1:00 am), Maxus Kandivali (3:00 am and 6:00 am), PVR Sangam Andheri (1:05 am), Maxus Borivali (1:30 am, 3:00 am and 6:00 am), Metro Inox (1:00 am), PVR Orion Mall Panvel (1:10 am) etc.

Sitaare Zameen Par opened at Rs. 10.70 crores while on Day 2, it is expected to earn around Rs. 20 crores. The advance booking for Sunday is super-strong and a weekend of Rs. 50 crores is now certain. The Saturday trend and demand for post-midnight shows makes it clear that it would hold strongly on Monday as well.

What is also heartening is that on the day of release, Sitaare Zameen Par was performing better mainly in elite cinemas and A centres but now the mass audience has also come out in full force. As a result, a healthy lifetime and solid trending is expected from the perfectionists’ latest release in the long run.

Also Read: Before you watch Aamir Khan’s Sitaare Zameen Par, these tweets are a must-read

Filmmaker Karan Johar, known for crafting some of Indian cinema’s most iconic love stories, is now lending his voice to a new kind of narrative—one that unfolds far from the glitter of wedding décor and dreamy romantic moments. Johar has been announced as the brand ambassador for The Bridal Retreat, a first-of-its-kind initiative that focuses not on the big day itself, but on the emotional and mental preparation that comes before and beyond it.

“I’ve spent years telling love stories through cinema—but The Bridal Retreat is about the story behind the scenes,” said Karan Johar and added, “It’s not about perfect weddings—it’s about preparing women for what comes after. This retreat offers a rare opportunity: a chance for brides to meet themselves before the world meets the bride. In a world of beautifully curated celebrations, we sometimes forget the inner transformation that marriage brings. The Bridal Retreat places that journey at the centre.”

Organised by E-Factor Experiences, The Bridal Retreat is a five-day experiential programme curated specifically for brides-to-be. It includes sessions on identity, wellness, body movement, communication, and cultural reflection, all conducted by seasoned experts from the fields of mental health, fashion, and relationship coaching. The idea is to guide women through introspection and self-awareness—helping them make mindful transitions into married life.

Samit Garg, co-founder and managing director of E-Factor Experiences, elaborates on the intent behind the programme. “The Bridal Retreat is not just a concept—it’s a commitment. It recognises that while weddings are important milestones, what truly shapes a woman’s journey is how she enters this new phase—mindfully, emotionally equipped, and in tune with her sense of self. With Karan Johar joining us, we’re adding another layer of meaning and purpose to this platform,” he shard.

In 2025, limited-edition retreats will be held across seven Indian cities—Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Jaipur, and Goa. Each edition will offer an intimate, supportive environment for brides-to-be to pause, reflect, and align with their personal vision of partnership and change.

With Karan Johar bringing emotional depth and cinematic insight to the initiative, The Bridal Retreat promises to redefine the bridal experience—shifting the focus from picture-perfect ceremonies to personal transformation and conscious beginnings.

Also Read: Photos: Karan Johar announced as Brand Ambassador for ‘The Bridal Retreat’ by E-Factor Experiences

Akshaye Khanna’s 2021 action-packed OTT film State of Siege: Temple Attack is all set to make its theatrical debut under a brand-new title — Akshardham: Operation Vajra Shakti. Nearly five years after its digital premiere, the high-octane drama will hit cinema halls on July 4, 2025, offering audiences a gripping, large-screen retelling of one of India’s most harrowing terror incidents.

Directed by Ken Ghosh, the film is a dramatic recreation of the 2002 terrorist attack on the Akshardham Temple in Gujarat. It captures the horror of the assault and the bravery of the National Security Guard (NSG) commandos who led the operation to neutralise the attackers. The story, inspired by real events, blends tension, patriotism, and action in equal measure.

To mark the announcement, the makers released a new poster on Instagram, which features haunting temple pillars casting the silhouette of a lone armed commando — a striking visual that evokes both reverence and courage. The caption reads, “An act of terror met with unmatched bravery, The story of courage, sacrifice, and survival comes alive in #AkshardhamOperationVajraShakti”.

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Akshaye Khanna headlines the cast as Major Hanut Singh, a fierce and strategic NSG officer. The ensemble includes Gautam Rode as Major Samar, Vivek Dahiya as Captain Rohit Bagga, Akshay Oberoi as Captain Bibek, and Abhilash Chaudhary portraying the main antagonist, terrorist Iqbal. Supporting roles are essayed by Parvin Dabas, Samir Soni, Abhimanyu Singh, Mir Sarwar, Manjari Fadnis, Chandan Roy, and Shivam Bhaargava.

The film is presented by Zee Studios and produced by Abhimanyu Singh in collaboration with Contiloe Pictures. Key credits include Tejal Shetye as the director of photography, Mukesh Thakur in charge of editing, and a screenplay penned by William Borthwick and Simon Fantauzzo.

Serving as a standalone sequel to State of Siege: 26/11, this new chapter continues to spotlight the valor of India’s elite forces, bringing their untold stories to life on the silver screen.

Also Read: Akshaye Khanna joins Prashanth Varma Cinematic Universe; to play a key character in Mahakali

The overzealous PR machinery around certain stars often spins stories that serve their clients' agendas — even if they’re far from the truth. The latest “news” being floated for Allu Arjun fans is that he’s likely to replace Ranveer Singh in the much-anticipated big-screen adaptation of Shaktimaan, the iconic Doordarshan superhero series that aired from 1997 and ran for eight years.

Originally portrayed by Mukesh Khanna, Shaktimaan remains one of India’s most beloved homegrown superheroes. The film adaptation — currently in development — is being written and directed by actor-filmmaker Basil Joseph, who has always had Ranveer Singh in mind for the titular role.

While speculative reports of casting changes surface periodically, with the most recent rumour linking Allu Arjun to the role, a source close to the project has dismissed the chatter outright.

“No one else is doing Shaktimaan. It is Ranveer Singh and no one else. Whoever is spreading rumours of his replacement clearly has their own agenda,” the source stated.

To get clarity, I reached out directly to Basil Joseph, who firmly confirmed, “Shaktimaan will be made only with Ranveer Singh.”

Also Read: BREAKING: Basil Joseph’s Shaktimaan with Ranveer Singh is not a 3-part project

On the occasion of World Yoga Day today, actress Sandeepa Dhar’s words strike a chord with many who turn to yoga not just for physical fitness, but for inner clarity. She said exclusively, “Yoga teaches us what we often forget in life. To be fully present. To feel every breath. To inhale with awareness. To exhale with intent.” These words highlight a core truth — that yoga, at its heart, is about mindful living.

In an age where hurried routines and constant notifications dominate daily life, yoga becomes a grounding force. More than a sequence of postures, it is a practice of presence. The emphasis on breath — the most basic yet often overlooked element of life — is central to this philosophy. Sandeepa added, “When I am immersed in my Yoga routine, every fibre of my being is at peace.” What the actress has said resonates with the experience of countless practitioners. It speaks to the sense of stillness and alignment that yoga can offer, even amidst life’s chaos. World Yoga Day, observed annually on June 21, serves as a global reminder of the power of this practice — not as a trend, but as a timeless tool for balance. Whether you're on a mat in a city studio or stretching in your living room, the invitation remains the same: to pause, breathe, and return to yourself. On the work front, Sandeepa will next be seen in the movie Firrkie. Along with her, it also stars Neil Nitin Mukesh, Jackie Shroff, Kay Kay Menon and Karan Singh Grover. Also Read: World Environment Day EXCLUSIVE: Sandeepa Dhar shares stark message; says, “We’re dismantling the machinery that keeps us breathing”

As the buzz around Hera Pheri 3 continues to stir public curiosity, Akshay Kumar has finally shared a cryptic update on the much-awaited third installment of the iconic comedy franchise. While promoting his upcoming film Kannappa in a conversation with Bollywood Hungama, Akshay was briefly asked about the status of Hera Pheri 3 following co-star Paresh Rawal’s recent exit. His response—"I am keeping my fingers and legs crossed"—might have been delivered with characteristic wit, but it also reflects the uncertainty looming over the project.

Timeline of Key Events of Paresh Rawal’s exit and Hera Pheri 3 shoot May 2025 – Paresh Rawal confirms exit

Rawal revealed he’d stepped away from Hera Pheri 3, citing personal discomfort rather than creative differences. His departure came as a surprise to fans and the film’s team, as he’d already participated in a promotional shoot with Akshay and Suniel Shetty.

I wish to put it on record that my decision to step away from Hera Pheri 3 was not due to creative differences. I REITERATE THAT THERE ARE NO CREATIVE DISAGREEMENT WITH THE FILM MAKER . I hold immense love, respect, and faith in Mr. Priyadarshan the film director. — Paresh Rawal (@SirPareshRawal) May 18, 2025

Late May – Legal action begins

Akshay’s production banner, Cape of Good Films, served Rawal with a Rs 25 crore lawsuit, alleging contract breach and losses due to cast and crew preparation costs.

Paresh returns advances

To mitigate the issue, Rawal reportedly returned a Rs 11 lakh advance plus 15% annual interest, asserting no formal binding contract existed. His lawyer contended the project lacked a finalized script and clear commitment.

Akshay defends Paresh

At the Housefull 5 trailer launch, Akshay expressed loyalty to Rawal and dismissed harsh words like “foolish” used against him, calling the matter serious and best suited for legal channels.

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June 2025 – Public reassurance

Following mounting speculation, Akshay said he’s optimistic the dispute will resolve: “I hope everything goes well,” adding later that he’s “keeping fingers and legs crossed.”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Akshay Kumar recalls girls hiding faces, tipsy fan encounter, and more during his impromptu visit to theatre screening Housefull 5; says, “Everyone has a backstory”

The weekend gone by was a treat for fans of Aamir Khan. He appeared on one of the oldest and most popular TV chat shows, Aap Ki Adalat. The manner in which he was grilled by host Rajat Sharma and the way he answered were seen to be believed.

For those who are unaware, the 71-minute-long episode began with the allegation that he is unpatriotic. He made a valid point about his tweet on Operation Sindoor and even clarified on meeting with the Turkey President. He cleverly drew parallels with the government helping the Asian country during the earthquake in good faith before the Pahalgam attack and hence, he should also be spared of criticism. He didn’t mince words over the ‘Boycott Turkey’ moment and agreed that Indians should not visit the country.

He further proved his patriotism by revealing that Sarfarosh (1999) was the first fictional movie to mention Pakistan and expose its role in cross-border terrorism. He added, “In Parliament, if Lal Krishna Advani can mention Pakistan and ISI, then why not us?”. He also confessed that he asked Disney not to release Dangal (2016) in Pakistan if the Censor Board there removed the scene of the Indian National Flag and Indian National Anthem.

He then revealed that he spent nearly 8 days in Kargil and met the jawans. He thundered, “I don’t consider the terrorists as Muslims”. He also gave a valid answer when asked about being a heretic and PK (2014) being an ‘anti-Hindu movie’. The topic naturally veered towards Aamir indulging in ‘Love Jihad’. Here, Aamir did a checkmate as he remarked that both his sisters and also daughter Ira have married Hindu men. But what about his children bearing Muslim names? He had an answer for it too, “My views named them. Ira is a short form of Irawati”. As for his youngest son Azad, he asked, “Haven’t you guys heard of Chandrashekhar Azad?”. He also added that Kiran Rao chose the name and it was a tribute to their granduncle, freedom fighter Maulana Abdul Kalam Azad.

Aamir Khan also brought to the notice of the audience that he made Secret Superstar (2017), which was about a dysfunctional Muslim family and hence him being anti-Hindu is a pointless argument. He continued that he lost money on the TV show Satyamev Jayate. He asked, “I did Satyamev Jayate, I work in social films and I started the Paani Foundation. Tell me, which other actor is doing something of this sort right now?”

What Aamir Khan managed to do with this interview is unthinkable. He was subjected to several uncomfortable questions and he boldly took on them. We are living in times when most of the popular actors are too scared to open their mouths on anything that might be perceived as controversial. The team of the star sometimes requests the journalists not to ask certain questions. Another new trend is that the team of the actor or the film/show shoot the interview themselves. They then edit out anything that they feel can cause trouble and share the footage with the interviewer!

In such times, Aamir Khan chose to have none of these do’s and don’ts. He allowed all kinds of questioning and he didn’t shy away from answering them. At one point, he even stated, “I don’t go around talking about (the good work he has done). I am opening up today as I was asked about it.” By doing so, he set a new example for other actors and most importantly, he busted many myths surrounding him. Many in the society have been subjected to hate messages about him for nearly a decade and naturally, they got brainwashed. But the Aap Ki Adalat interview has been an eye-opener for them.

Yet, there’s a section of trolls who refuse to see the reality. They have probably got so used to hating Aamir that they are still finding faults in his comments. They chose to completely ignore his good deeds and indulge in shameless criticism, to satisfy their subscribers or to earn money via engagement farming. It's difficult to ascertain what it will take for him to convince them that he’s indeed a true Indian. On the other hand, many of his fans were heartbroken to see that Aamir had to prove his patriotism, despite doing so much for the society and country at large. Here’s hoping better sense prevails and notwithstanding the brickbats from both sides, Aamir continues to make meaningful-yet-entertaining cinema and work for the betterment of the society.

Also Read:Aamir Khan takes a stand against OTT Trend; says, “This will destroy theatres”

British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran has confirmed that he has recorded a Hindi track for an upcoming Shah Rukh Khan film, sparking a wave of speculation online. The revelation came in a behind-the-scenes video shared during the making of his latest single ‘Sapphire,’ which already featured a surprise cameo from the Bollywood superstar himself.

While the name of the film hasn’t been officially announced, fans are convinced that the project in question is King — Shah Rukh Khan’s next big theatrical release, directed by Siddharth Anand. The project has remained tightly under wraps since its announcement, but Sheeran’s comments and the recent developments around ‘Sapphire’ are now being viewed as strong indicators of a deeper collaboration.

After Ed Sheeran posted a behind-the-scenes video on his YouTube channel, a fan noticed a short segment where he’s seen recording the Punjabi version of his song 'Sapphire' with Arijit Singh. A fan club later shared this clip on Instagram, writing, “Can’t wait for the full Punjabi version! Check out the BTS on Ed’s YouTube channel. Ed mentioned a Hindi version too—so now I’m not sure if the other version is in Hindi or Punjabi.”

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Ed Sheeran himself replied to the post and cleared the confusion. He wrote, “The Hindi song is for a Bollywood movie that Shah Rukh Khan is doing. This is the Punjabi version of Sapphire with Arijit. I’m just doing all languages at this point.”

It’s worth noting that Shah Rukh Khan’s appearance in ‘Sapphire’ has already stirred considerable buzz. The video also features Indian playback singer Arijit Singh.

This isn’t Ed Sheeran’s first brush with India. He recently got a Punjabi tattoo that says "Neelam," which translates to "sapphire" in English. During his recent tour in India, Sheeran mentioned how much he enjoys the vibrancy of Indian music, and there’s growing chatter that he might explore more collaborations within Indian cinema in the future.

King, which also stars Suhana Khan, Deepika Padukone, Anil Kapoor, Rani Mukerji, and others, is the only Shah Rukh Khan project actively in production at the moment. The film has been billed as a gritty action drama and marks Suhana’s theatrical debut following her OTT entry with The Archies.

As for the Hindi song itself, details remain under wraps. It is unclear whether it will be part of the King soundtrack, a promotional crossover, or even a separate single linked to the film’s marketing campaign. Given the speculative nature of these developments, neither Shah Rukh Khan nor Siddharth Anand has officially confirmed the association. However, the timing of the song’s recording, Sheeran’s statement, and the visuals from the ‘Sapphire’ BTS video all seem to point in one direction.

While fans wait for an official confirmation, the idea of a Sheeran-Khan musical crossover continues to dominate discussions online. If the speculation proves true, this could be one of the most unique global collaborations Bollywood has seen in recent years.

Also Read: Ed Sheeran gives special mention to Shah Rukh Khan and Arijit Singh in his “Sapphire dumpington” post: “Love that guy so much”

On June 18, actor Kartik Aaryan dropped a video lighting up social media — this time, celebrating co-star Ananya Panday’s schedule wrap for Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri with a fun, full-of-josh dance on 'Dheeme Dheeme'. The video captures the duo in high spirits as they groove to the chartbuster, bringing back the Pati Patni Aur Woh nostalgia but with a whole new film in play.

With his signature charm and spontaneity, Kartik captioned the video: "Apni Ananya ka schedule wrap ho Aur hum Dheeme Dheeme par dance na karein, aisa kaise ho sakta hai @ananyapanday#TuMeriMainTeraMainTeraTuMeri."

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For the unversed, earlier this month, Dharma Productions confirmed Ananya as the female lead of Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri. The official announcement was made days after Bollywood Hungama reported that the two actresses leading the race were Ananya Panday and Sharvari, and after fighting it till the end, it's Ananya Panday who has bagged the film. A well-placed industry source told us, "Kartik and Karan were looking for an actress with strong pull in the youth and after contemplating on the names, they have locked Ananya to play the female lead. Ananya and Kartik are a successful pair, and this would extend their partnership further."

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Directed by Sameer Vidwans, the film will be released on Valentine's Day 2026. Reportedly, Karan Johar is planning a Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani crossover for the Kartik Aaryan-starrer. In January this year, Mid-Day reported that KJo is contemplating introducing characters from his 2013 blockbuster YJHD into this film. The report suggested stars Ranbir Kapoor, Deepika Padukone, Aditya Roy Kapur, and Kalki Koechlin could reprise their iconic roles in special appearances. However, the production banner has neither confirmed nor denied the speculation, as of now.

Also Read: CONFIRMED! Ananya Panday to star opposite Kartik Aaryan in Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri

Ayushmann Khurrana and Tahira Kashyap got married at the age of 24, before Ayushmann had entered the film industry and while Tahira was just starting her professional journey. Although they had been in a relationship for several years, adjusting to life in Mumbai as newlyweds took some time. In a recent interview, Tahira revealed that after their move to the city, she ended up spending all her savings, as she was solely responsible for buying groceries for the entire first year. During this period, Ayushmann had begun working as a VJ, but he remained unaware that Tahira was covering all the household expenses and never offered to contribute financially.

In a conversation with Official People of India, reportedly recorded a few months ago, Tahira Kashyap opened up about moving to Mumbai with Ayushmann Khurrana after their 2008 marriage. She mentioned that she had been financially independent and had savings from years of working, even though a portion had gone toward their wedding expenses. “I had spent some money on my wedding but I had my own savings. But I didn’t have a job in Mumbai. We had just gotten married and I was still applying for jobs,” she said. Tahira also revealed that Ayushmann was unaware she was solely using her savings to buy groceries for the household.

Tahira recalled, “This boy did not understand how were we getting the food, like how were we buying all of these vegetables, fruits. My bank balance was depleting. I had never asked anyone for money, even my parents. I had always been financially independent but now everything went for a toss because it had been a year and my bank balance was zero.”

Tahira Kashyap remembered a moment when Ayushmann Khurrana asked her why she hadn’t brought any mangoes, which was the tipping point for her. “I was so upset because he hadn’t noticed that I hadn’t eaten mangoes for two days just so he could have them. When he asked, ‘What’s the problem?’ I broke down and started crying. I asked him, ‘How do you think we’ve been buying groceries?’ He responded, ‘Oh yeah.’ I told him, ‘My bank balance is zero. It’s been 7-8 months, I’m still looking for jobs, and we’ve been spending only my savings.’ That’s when he realized and asked, ‘Why didn’t you ask me for money?’ I replied, ‘Because I can’t. You’re supposed to be sharing the grocery expenses with me.’ By then, he had started his career as a VJ,” she shared.

In April, Tahira revealed that her cancer had returned seven years after she was first diagnosed. She has been regularly updating her followers about her health on social media.

Also Read : Tahira Kashyap reflects on motherhood, “Bliss but with a sweet pain”