Indus Chronicles

As Dhurandhar is continuing to rule the box office in India, the battle for the Christmas 2025 period is getting intense between the Kartik Aaryan led Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri and the James Cameron film, Avatar: Fire and Ash. And in a surprising turn of events, exhibitors have decided to reduce the show count of Avatar: Fire and Ash on Christmas Day to accommodate the Kartik Aaryan rom-com at their properties.

"Jio Star Studios (Distributor of Avatar: Fire and Ash in India for Disney India) has permitted exhibitors to move the Christmas Day programming for Avatar: Fire and Ash as the exhibitors had strong pressure from the stakeholders of Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri headlined by Kartik Aaryan with Ananya Panday. The show reduction process has already begun at independent chains, and approx. 30 per cent of the shows will be reduced for Avatar: Fire and Ash on Christmas Day, which will give a very good release to the Kartik Aaryan film," a trade source shared with Bollywood Hungama.

The exhibitors are bullish on Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri as it's a happy film featuring a young star like Kartik Aaryan, and it fits the bill for the family plans over the holiday period of Christmas and New Year. "There is strong demand for Tu Meri Main Tera among the youth, and they are expected to ensure a strong start for the film on the opening day despite competition. The audience demand is driving the showcasing and programming, as Avatar: Fire and Ash has clearly not fired the way it should have at the box office," the trade source told Bollywood Hungama.

In contrast, Jio Studios has not permitted any reduction in shows for Dhurandhar on Christmas Day. Exhibitors are adhering strictly to the original showcasing commitments for the film.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: CBFC censors 15 seconds of sexually suggestive scene in Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri

Emraan Hashmi has once again proved why he is considered one of the most committed and resilient actors in the industry. During a high-octane action sequence on the sets of Awarapan 2, Emraan reportedly suffered a serious abdominal tissue tear that required immediate medical attention and surgery. While most actors would have opted for an extended break, sources reveal that Emraan chose to return to the set much sooner than expected, driven by his dedication to the film, his role, and his audience.

According to sources, Emraan is currently back on location in Rajasthan, with the shoot proceeding under strict supervision. His action movements have been restricted and the schedule has been carefully revised to ensure his health is prioritised while the film continues to move forward smoothly.

His determination has reportedly deeply inspired the team, who are in complete awe of his passion and professionalism. Awarapan 2 is among the most awaited upcoming projects, and Emraan’s resolve to continue shooting despite the physical challenges has added even more emotional depth to the journey of the film. Fans, colleagues, and well-wishers are said to be rallying behind him as he delivers yet another powerful performance.

Also Read: Shabana Azmi on joining Emraan Hashmi starrer Awarapan 2, “My character comes in at a crucial juncture in the story”

Ahaan Panday used the stage at the NDTV Indian of the Year 2025 to confirm his next film, revealing that he will soon be collaborating with filmmaker Ali Abbas Zafar. Fresh off the success of his Bollywood debut Saiyaara, the actor spoke candidly about the project during a brief interaction with the host after accepting his award.

Confirming the development, Ahaan said, “It’s an Ali Abbas Zafar film. I don’t know if I should say too much. All I can say is it will start rolling very soon, in the next couple of months. It’s an action film. It’s being led by three people under the age of 30. It has been something that’s not been done for a very long time. For the rest, the audience will have to wait for it.” While he refrained from sharing further details, the confirmation put an end to months of speculation around his next project.

Buzz around Ahaan’s follow-up to Saiyaara first surfaced in October this year. Reports suggest that Sharvari will play the female lead, with Bobby Deol expected to be seen in an antagonist’s role. The film is also said to be backed by Yash Raj Films, marking another collaboration between the production house and a young lead actor. According to reports, the actioner is expected to go on floors in March 2026, with the United Kingdom being one of the primary shooting locations.

Earlier in the evening, while accepting the Debutant Actor of the Year award, Ahaan took a moment to acknowledge the people who shaped his debut journey. Speaking about his Saiyaara co-star, he said, “I learned so much from Aneet, and I owe a lot to her. My growth on Saiyaara, I owe to Mohit Suri, but also to Aneet Padda.” Reflecting on their shared approach to storytelling, he added, “I remember telling her that whatever happens, all that matters is that one person leaves the cinema hall feeling something. That they're moved. That's our job as artists.”

With his next film set to move into production soon, Ahaan Panday appears poised to transition quickly from a successful debut to a large-scale action project.

Also Read: Ahaan Panday shares nostalgic memories that inspired his film career: “My introduction to the world of cinema came from my grandmother”

A viral video purporting to show a leaked romantic song from Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone's upcoming actioner King has been debunked as an AI-generated fan edit, sparking frenzy before users spotted visual inconsistencies like unnatural transitions.

The clip, shared widely on social media, depicted the duo in an intense embrace with soulful music and romantic lyrics, mimicking SRK's reported film look and Deepika in glamorous outfits to create the illusion of an official sequence. No official footage, song, or teaser from King has been released, confirming the content as fabricated despite its polished appearance.

KING SONG LEAKED Who tf made this 😭 pic.twitter.com/6piFMvgSj7 — Sameer (@sameerahmadx) December 18, 2025

The edit highlights advancing AI tools blurring real and fake content lines, with some praising creativity while others raised misinformation concerns amid high anticipation for SRK-Deepika's reunion post-Om Shanti Om, Chennai Express, and Pathaan. Makers have stayed silent on the video.​

Shah Rukh Khan returns to filming King on December 20 after a six-week break, entering the most demanding action-heavy schedule with stylized sequences and dramatic confrontations planned by director Siddharth Anand and international stunt directors at Film City, Goregaon. Suhana Khan joins her father on screen for the first time, alongside Deepika Padukone, Rani Mukerji, and Abhishek Bachchan, as SRK prepares extensively for the technically challenging shoot. The first look, unveiled on SRK's 60th birthday in November, set expectations for ambitious grounded combat.

Also Read: BTS, Arijit Singh, Shah Rukh Khan: India’s most-asked entertainment names on Alexa in 2025

Aditya Dhar’s heartfelt encomium to Ram Gopal Varma calling him a major source of inspiration has left the filmmaker deeply emotional. Dhar had written, “I came to Mumbai years ago carrying one suitcase, one dream, and an unreasonable belief that I would one day work under Ram Gopal Varma. That never happened. But somewhere along the way, without knowing it, I worked inside your cinema. Your films didn’t teach me how to make movies they taught me how to think dangerously.”

Speaking to this writer, Ram Gopal Varma says, “I just spoke to Aditya. We had a long conversation. I feel like crying. When someone like Rajamouli or Aditya tells me that I have inspired them, I feel like that Liril soap ad from the 1970s which made the model Karen Lunel famous. But what about the soap itself?”

Varma believes that Dhurandhar has fundamentally altered the grammar of Indian filmmaking. “Like I said in my tweet, it is a quantum leap for Indian cinema, and we must celebrate its success rather than bitch about its politics. Who cares about its politics as long as it is a work that takes our cinema forward?”

Also Read: Ram Gopal Varma calls Ranveer Singh starrer Dhurandhar a turning point for Indian cinema and a wake-up call for the industry: “It is a warning to the film industry to grow up”

Dhurandhar, which is all set to become the biggest hit of the year, enters the third week of its release today. The film overperformed in its second week and is now all set for another huge week from today. The Ranveer Singh-starrer also had a release in the IMAX version. However, its IMAX run ended yesterday, on December 18.

This is because Avatar: Fire And Ash has now taken over all the IMAX screens across India and also the world. Directed by James Cameron, the fantasy drama is known for its spellbinding visuals. Hence, it makes for an ideal watch in IMAX theatres. It's no wonder that its shows in the IMAX cinemas got filled first.

Nevertheless, Dhurandhar had a glorious run in the IMAX version. The film also had a big screen appeal which enticed people to check it out in IMAX. Interestingly, the film didn’t get a release in IMAX on the day of its release due to late delivery of prints. But once the issue settled, the film managed to score big time in the wide-screen cinemas.

Avatar vs Dhurandhar update

Yesterday, Bollywood Hungama had reported that the advance booking in several one-screen and two-screen cinemas had not begun for shows from December 19 due to show-sharing issues between Avatar: Fire And Ash and Dhurandhar.

As per a trade source, “Disney, the studio releasing Avatar: Fire And Ash, has asked single-screen theatres that they want all shows for their film. In two-screen cinemas, they have asked for 5 or 6 shows. However, exhibitors are not comfortable with this directive as Dhurandhar is running very successfully. They are confident that even in its third week, the Ranveer Singh-starrer will find a huge audience, as evident by the steady footfalls the film has generated in the weekdays.”

The matter was expected to be resolved. Sadly, that hasn’t happened. The trade source informed Bollywood Hungama, “Disney was adamant about getting all shows for Avatar: Fire And Ash while the single screens requested for show sharing. With no other option, single-screen cinemas had to give up on the plan to play Avatar: Fire And Ash. Late Thursday night, they opened the advance booking and have decided to continue playing Dhurandhar with all shows until December 24.”

The only exception is PVR Le Reve, Bandra, formerly known as Globus Cinema. It’ll play Avatar: Fire And Ash with two shows a day, at 8:00 am and 7:20 pm, while Dhurandhar will be played by 11:40 am, 3:30 pm and 11:00 pm. In other words, PVR Le Reve is one of the few single screens in the whole of India that will play the James Cameron directorial.

On the other hand, all the two-screen cinemas of Mumbai have allotted 3 shows to Avatar: Fire And Ash and the remaining 6 shows to Dhurandhar.

Finally, those hoping to watch Avatar: Fire And Ash at Mumbai’s iconic G7 complex, popularly known as Gaiety-Galaxy, might be disappointed. Until December 18, bookings for Galaxy and Gemini were not opened, fuelling hope that the James Cameron directorial would find a slot in one of the two screens. However, late Thursday night, bookings for all screens were opened, and there was no listing for Avatar: Fire And Ash. Dhurandhar will continue to play in Gaiety and Galaxy, the complex’s biggest screens, while Gemini will play four shows of Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2.

Also Read: Adivi Sesh BREAKS silence on Dacoit’s CLASH with Dhurandhar 2 on March 19, 2026: “I wish the sequel is world’s BIGGEST hit; jin logon ko Dhurandhar 2 ka ticket na mile, woh Dacoit dekhne aa jaaye!”

Dhurandhar, which is all set to become the biggest hit of the year, enters the third week of its release today. The film overperformed in its second week and is now all set for another huge week from today. The Ranveer Singh-starrer also had a release in the IMAX version. However, its IMAX run ended yesterday, on December 18.

This is because Avatar: Fire And Ash has now taken over all the IMAX screens across India and also the world. Directed by James Cameron, the fantasy drama is known for its spellbinding visuals. Hence, it makes for an ideal watch in IMAX theatres. It's no wonder that its shows in the IMAX cinemas got filled first.

Nevertheless, Dhurandhar had a glorious run in the IMAX version. The film also had a big screen appeal which enticed people to check it out in IMAX. Interestingly, the film didn’t get a release in IMAX on the day of its release due to late delivery of prints. But once the issue settled, the film managed to score big time in the wide-screen cinemas.

Avatar vs Dhurandhar update

Yesterday, Bollywood Hungama had reported that the advance booking in several one-screen and two-screen cinemas had not begun for shows from December 19 due to show-sharing issues between Avatar: Fire And Ash and Dhurandhar.

As per a trade source, “Disney, the studio releasing Avatar: Fire And Ash, has asked single-screen theatres that they want all shows for their film. In two-screen cinemas, they have asked for 5 or 6 shows. However, exhibitors are not comfortable with this directive as Dhurandhar is running very successfully. They are confident that even in its third week, the Ranveer Singh-starrer will find a huge audience, as evident by the steady footfalls the film has generated in the weekdays.”

The matter was expected to be resolved. Sadly, that hasn’t happened. The trade source informed Bollywood Hungama, “Disney was adamant about getting all shows for Avatar: Fire And Ash while the single screens requested for show sharing. With no other option, single-screen cinemas had to give up on the plan to play Avatar: Fire And Ash. Late Thursday night, they opened the advance booking and have decided to continue playing Dhurandhar with all shows until December 24.”

The only exception is PVR Le Reve, Bandra, formerly known as Globus Cinema. It’ll play Avatar: Fire And Ash with two shows a day, at 8:00 am and 7:20 pm, while Dhurandhar will be played by 11:40 am, 3:30 pm and 11:00 pm. In other words, PVR Le Reve is one of the few single screens in the whole of India that will play the James Cameron directorial.

On the other hand, all the two-screen cinemas of Mumbai have allotted 3 shows to Avatar: Fire And Ash and the remaining 6 shows to Dhurandhar.

Finally, those hoping to watch Avatar: Fire And Ash at Mumbai’s iconic G7 complex, popularly known as Gaiety-Galaxy, might be disappointed. Until December 18, bookings for Galaxy and Gemini were not opened, fuelling hope that the James Cameron directorial would find a slot in one of the two screens. However, late Thursday night, bookings for all screens were opened, and there was no listing for Avatar: Fire And Ash. Dhurandhar will continue to play in Gaiety and Galaxy, the complex’s biggest screens, while Gemini will play four shows of Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2.

Also Read: Adivi Sesh BREAKS silence on Dacoit’s CLASH with Dhurandhar 2 on March 19, 2026: “I wish the sequel is world’s BIGGEST hit; jin logon ko Dhurandhar 2 ka ticket na mile, woh Dacoit dekhne aa jaaye!”

Filmmaker Sandeep Reddy Vanga has shelved his New Year’s break plans in order to push ahead with filming on his highly anticipated cop action drama Spirit, starring Prabhas, Triptii Dimri and Vivek Oberoi. The decision was taken to fast-track production so the project can meet its planned mid-2027 release timeframe, according to a report by Mid-Day.

Originally, Spirit was scheduled to shoot its first schedule through December and then pause for a New Year break. However, Vanga and his team decided to continue filming through the New Year’s week, with production now expected to run until at least the first week of January before a short pause. The report quoted a source close to the film revealing that the director called off holiday plans in a bid to wrap up the shoot ahead of schedule.

The movie marks Vanga’s first collaboration with both Prabhas and Vivek Oberoi. Insiders say the director is planning distinctive looks for the stars — a move reminiscent of how Vanga’s previous film Animal presented Bobby Deol in an unexpected avatar — indicating that Spirit will continue the filmmaker’s signature visual and narrative style.

Spirit began shooting on November 27 in Hyderabad, and the extended schedule means the cast and crew are now working through late December and into January to keep the production on track.

As it stands, Spirit is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched Indian films of 2027, powered by its high-profile star cast and the creative vision of one of Bollywood’s most discussed directors.

Also Read: 2 Years of Animal EXCLUSIVE: Khushaal Pawaar shares FASCINATING secret behind casting process: “Sandeep Reddy Vanga DIDN’T provide us with a script; a FIRST-ever such experience for me…you CANNOT manipulate him”

Indian film star Sara Ali Khan has been officially announced as the latest Friend of the Brand for iconic Swiss watchmaker Longines, marking a significant collaboration between one of Bollywood’s most admired young actresses and a heritage luxury timepiece house. The announcement was shared widely across media today following a press release and Sara’s own social media post, where she expressed her excitement over the partnership.

Sara took to Instagram to share the news with her followers, writing, “I’m delighted to share that I’ve joined the Swiss watch brand LONGINES as a Friend of the Brand. Its timeless elegance, rich heritage and authenticity have long inspired me and I cannot wait to show you what’s ahead! #Longines #ElegancelsAnAttitude #LonginesPrimaluna.” This message reflects her personal admiration for the brand’s legacy and values, setting the tone for what both parties hope will be a creative and inspiring collaboration.

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  A post shared by Sara Ali Khan (@saraalikhan95)

Longines, founded in Saint-Imier, Switzerland in 1832, is known for its graceful designs, precision engineering, and long history of sport timing and aviation partnerships. Its winged hourglass logo is recognised in more than 150 countries around the world. The brand’s association with India dates back to 1878, when it first sold watches in the country, a historical connection that the company says this new collaboration will further strengthen.

In the official statement, Longines praised Sara’s radiant personality, effortless charm and refined sense of style, noting that she perfectly embodies the spirit of timeless elegance which is a hallmark of the brand’s identity. Her versatility and strong public presence in cinema have made her an influential figure among modern audiences, aligning with Longines’ efforts to celebrate individuals who represent elegance not just through appearance, but through authenticity, confidence, and attitude.

Sara Ali Khan, who made her film debut in 2018 with the hit Kedarnath and has since starred in successful films like Simmba, Atrangi Re, and Zara Hatke Zara Bachke, brings both contemporary appeal and cultural relevance to the Longines family. A graduate of Columbia University with a degree in history and political science, she is widely respected for her intellect as well as her on-screen presence qualities that the brand sees as reflective of its values of precision and heritage.

The collaboration is expected to spotlight Longines’ PrimaLuna collection, known for its elegant design and feminine sophistication an aesthetic that resonates with Sara’s personal style and public image, making this partnership a blend of tradition and modernity that appeals to watch enthusiasts and fashion followers alike.

This announcement adds to Sara Ali Khan’s growing list of high-profile partnerships and reinforces Longines’ commitment to working with influential cultural figures who embody its core principles of grace, authenticity, and timeless elegance.

Also Read : Sara Ali Khan shares heartfelt note for Sushant Singh Rajput on 7 years of Kedarnath: “Thank you for reminding me to be curious”

Less than 24 hours are left for the release of Avatar: Fire And Ash and the excitement is building up for it thanks to its big-screen appeal, grandeur and popularity of the franchise. Interestingly, viewers will be treated with two tantalizing assets when they venture out to watch the James Cameron directorial in cinemas from December 19.

Bollywood Hungama has learned that the introduction teaser of Ramayana has been attached to Avatar: Fire And Ash. It was launched on July 3 and has been loved for its ensemble cast and stunning VFX.

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari of Dangal (2016) and Chhichhore (2019) fame, Ramayana stars Ranbir Kapoor as Rama, KGF star Yash as Ravana, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Ravie Dubey as Lakshman and Sunny Deol as Hanuman. It is produced by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios and 8-time Oscar-winning VFX studio DNEG in association with Yash’s Monster Mind Creations, written by Shridhar Raghavan and has music by the greats, A R Rahman and Hans Zimmer. The first part releases in cinemas on Diwali 2026, while part 2 will arrive on Diwali 2027.

The other teaser attached to the Hollywood flick is that of Hanuman – The Eternal. This video isn’t out yet on digital and hence, viewers will see a glimpse of the film for the first time on the big screen. It is one of India’s first theatrical films made using AI and arrests attention thanks to its visual appeal, scale and depiction of Lord Hanuman. It is directed by Rajesh Mapuskar of Ferrari Ki Sawaari (2012) and Rudra: The Edge Of Darkness (2022) fame, produced by Vikram Malhotra’s Abundantia Entertainment and Collective Media Network’s Historyverse. As per reports, it is slated for a theatrical release on Hanuman Jayanti, that is, April 2 next year.

However, Hanuman – The Eternal has been in the news after Anurag Kashyap slammed the announcement news and also one of the film's producers, Vijay Subramaniam, for backing an AI-generated film while heading an artists' agency. Shockingly, Anurag even mentioned in the post, “This right here is the future for the spineless and cowardly so-called artists in the Hindi Film industry. Well done Vijay Subramaniam. Shame is not enough on you. You should be in the gutter.”

Also Read: Ramayana: Ranbir Kapoor starrer to mark a historic collab with Avatar: Fire and Ash as it premieres in theatres

The biggest Hollywood film of the year, Avatar: Fire And Ash, is all set to release tomorrow, that is, Friday, December 19. While advance booking commenced on December 5, several cinemas, especially one-screen and two-screen cinemas, have yet to begin advance booking. Bollywood Hungama spoke to trade and exhibition sources to understand the reason behind it.

A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “Disney, the studio releasing Avatar: Fire And Ash, has asked single-screen theatres that they want all shows for their film. In two-screen cinemas, they have asked for 5 or 6 shows. However, exhibitors are not comfortable with this directive as Dhurandhar is running very successfully. They are confident that even in its third week, the Ranveer Singh-starrer will find a huge audience, as evident by the steady footfalls the film has generated in the weekdays.”

The source continued, “The exhibitors have requested that they’d like to divide shows equally between the two films. After all, they realize that Avatar: Fire And Ash will also be a crowd puller. However, so is Dhurandhar. But Disney hasn’t accepted this idea. Negotiations are going on and a middle ground is expected to be reached today.”

As for 8:30 am on December 18, single-screen theatres in Mumbai like Gold Cinema Santacruz, Chitra Dadar, Roxy Opera House, Maratha Mandir, Kasturba Malad, Citylight Mahim, Inox Nakshatra Dadar, MovieTime Star City, New Excelsion, MovieTime Dahisar, Gold Cinema Sona Borivali, MovieMax Andheri East, MovieTime Suburbia, PVR Le Reve etc. are yet to start bookings for tomorrow.

The same issue can be seen in two-screen plexes like Sun City Vile Parle, Mukta A2 Cinemas Lalbaug, Topiwala Goregaon, PVR Milap Kandivali, Movietime Malad etc.

Shockingly, ticket sales for Avatar: Fire And Ash as well as Dhurandhar, for December 19 onwards are yet to commence in a full-fledged manner in even certain three-screen properties like Sterling, MovieMax Mira Road, MovieMax Sion etc. as well as in four-screen properties like Miraj R Mall Mulund, Inox Raghuleela Kandivali, PVR Odeon Ghatkopar, Inox Korum Mall Thane, MovieMax SM5 Kalyan, MovieMax Wonder Mall Thane, etc.

At Mumbai’s iconic G7 complex, popularly known as Gaiety-Galaxy, advance bookings have opened in four cinemas, but Galaxy and Gemini are yet to begin. Dhurandhar will continue at Gaiety with three shows from December 19. Until December 18, it was being screened in both Gaiety and Galaxy. It now remains to be seen whether Avatar: Fire And Ash will be accommodated at Galaxy or Gemini, or both, and whether Dhurandhar also gets additional shows in the other two cinemas at G7.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Unlike Avatar: The Way Of Water, CBFC passes Avatar: Fire And Ash with ZERO cuts

Homebound, the critically acclaimed Hindi drama directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, has been officially selected as India’s entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards and has now been shortlisted by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences as one of the contenders moving forward in the awards process.

The film starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor was chosen by the Film Federation of India from a competitive list of 24 films submitted this year, cementing its place as the nation’s representative on cinema’s biggest global stage.

In the shortlist announced this week, Homebound is among only 15 international films advancing toward final nominations for the Best International Feature Film Award, marking a significant achievement for Indian cinema ahead of the Oscars scheduled in March 2026.

Homebound tells the poignant journey of two childhood friends striving to become police officers to earn dignity and respect in a system shaped by caste and socioeconomic divides.

Producer Karan Johar reacted emotionally to the film’s Oscars shortlist announcement, taking to social media to share his pride. He wrote, “I am not sure I can articulate how proud, elated and over the moon I am with the journey of #HOMEBOUND… all of us @dharmamovies are privileged to have this proud and important film in our filmography … thank you @neeraj.ghaywan for making so many dreams of ours come true… from Cannes to being on the Oscar shortlist this has been such an overwhelming journey! Love to the entire cast and crew and teams of this special special film!!!!!!!!! Upwards and onwards…….. #HOMEBOUND streaming now on @netflix_in.”

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  A post shared by Karan Johar (@karanjohar)

The film has already earned international recognition after its premiere in the Un Certain Regard section at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, where it received a nine‑minute standing ovation from audiences. It also screened at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where it won the International People’s Choice Award as second runner‑up.

Industry insiders and audiences have celebrated Homebound’s selection, seeing it as a testament to the depth of India’s cinematic storytelling. Key cast and crew members expressed excitement as the film’s Oscar campaign progresses, with many hoping it will secure a nomination when the final list is announced early next year.

Also Read : Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa react to Shah Rukh Khan showering love on Homebound

The inheritance battle over late industrialist Sunjay Kapur’s colossal Rs. 30,000 crores estate has taken a sensational twist. On Tuesday, Priya Sachdev Kapur, Sunjay’s third wife, fiercely opposed any forensic examination of the Will that forms the bedrock of her claim to his personal assets and control over the Sona Comstar Group. The plea for scientific scrutiny—covering handwriting, ink, and paper analysis—was pressed by Sunjay’s children from his previous marriage, Samaira and Kiaan Raj Kapur, who argue that such checks are vital to confirm authenticity.

Legal experts say Priya’s resistance is highly unusual in a probate dispute of this magnitude, as courts routinely rely on forensic tests to settle doubts over testamentary documents. Blocking this process, they warn, could amplify suspicions surrounding a Will that completely excludes Sunjay’s biological children.

Adding fuel to the fire, Shradha Suri Marwah—the Will’s purported executor—has dramatically altered her stance on how she first received the document. Initially claiming Priya handed it over on June 24, Suri later said it came from Dinesh Agarwal on June 14, only to revert to her original version after reviewing Priya’s submissions. These oscillations, coupled with her admission that she was unaware of being named executor and lacked independent legal advice, have raised eyebrows. Her request for indemnity from Priya and reluctance to probate the Will further deepen scepticism.

Senior counsel Mahesh Jethmalani, representing Samaira and Kiaan, argued that under Indian law, an executor cannot be appointed without prior consent. If the Will fails judicial scrutiny, Sunjay’s estate would devolve equally among all Class I heirs—a point even Suri’s counsel conceded.

The Delhi High Court will hear both the forensic inspection plea and Suri’s amendment application on January 20, 2026, a date that could decide whether the Will reflects Sunjay Kapur’s true intentions or collapses under scrutiny.

For the unversed, Sunjay Kapur, Chairman of Sona Comstar, died suddenly on June 12, 2025, during a polo match in Windsor, England. The contested Will, dated March 21, 2025, allegedly leaves his entire personal estate to Priya and their minor son Azarias, excluding his children from his previous marriage to Karisma Kapoor. The dispute has spiralled into one of India’s most high-stakes inheritance battles, with allegations of forgery, concealment, and even conspiracy swirling around the case.

Also Read: Explosion in Rs. 30,000-Crore Sunjay Kapur estate battle: Missing email attachment triggers Will scam suspicion

Cornerstone, one of India’s leading brand and talent management companies, and Armour Entertainment, led by Prarthana Ajmani, have announced a strategic partnership, marking a new phase in the long-term plans of both agencies. As part of the alliance, Bollywood actor Tiger Shroff has been signed as the first talent.

The collaboration points to a renewed focus on the evolving entertainment and talent ecosystem at a time of industry change. It reflects a joint effort by Bunty Sajdeh and Prarthana Ajmani to create a streamlined and integrated setup, with an emphasis on structure, long-term growth and consistent talent development across platforms.

Together, Cornerstone and Armour combine their respective strengths. Cornerstone’s experience in developing and positioning talent across sports and entertainment complements Armour Entertainment’s management approach, supported by Prarthana Ajmani’s industry experience and professional network built over years of working with leading actors. The partnership brings together complementary capabilities aimed at creating a cohesive ecosystem focused on credibility, brand development and comprehensive talent management.

Bunty Sajdeh, CEO, Cornerstone, said, “Look at Hollywood and you’ll see how the talent management approach has always worked in the West. There are unique skill sets that are clearly defined strategic, long-term brand and wealth building, alongside specialised talent management that is an industry in itself when done correctly and holistically. Both are equally important and must work hand in hand to ensure maximum output. I’ve known Prarthana for many years and have always admired her professionalism and strategic mindset, so when the opportunity arose to join hands, it was an easy decision.”

Prarthana Ajmani, CEO, Armour, added, “With CXA, we’re building a system that is structured, future-ready and truly talent-first. Partnering with Cornerstone brings together the strengths of two teams driven by excellence. On a personal level, Bunty’s strategic clarity and faith in my abilities have been key driving forces in this collaboration. I’m thrilled to embark on this journey with him."

Also Read : Dharma Productions relaunches talent arm as Dharma Collab Artists Agency after acquiring Cornerstone’s stake

A major controversy has disrupted the 12th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) in Thiruvananthapuram, as the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) has withheld screening permissions for several films, leading to cancellations.​

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has sharply criticized the decision, calling it “deeply unfortunate” and highlighting the denial of clearance to 19 scheduled films. On December 16, 2025, he noted on social media that the original list was longer, but some approvals followed his intervention with I&B Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, requested by festival chairman Riyas LP, while others await Ministry of External Affairs clearance.

Tharoor described the bureaucracy's stance as a “staggering lack of cinematic understanding,” questioning blocks on classics like Battleship Potemkin, a 1928 Russian Revolution film seen by millions worldwide, including in India. "The list of 19 films suggests an extraordinary degree of cinematic illiteracy on the part of the bureaucracy. To deny clearance to a classic like Battleship Potemkin, a 1928 film on the Russian Revolution which has been viewed by literally hundreds of millions around the world (and in India) over the last century, is laughable. Denying permission to some Palestinian films reflects bureaucratic over-cautiousness rather than the cultural breadth of vision that should be involved when it comes to world cinema," he wrote.

It is most unfortunate that an unseemly controversy has arisen over the central government's denial of clearance to 19 films which were scheduled to be screened at the International Film Festival of Kerala in Thiruvananthapuram.

The original list was much longer, but several… — Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) December 16, 2025

He urged Ministers Ashwini Vaishnaw and S Jaishankar to expedite approvals, warning of damage to India’s cultural image, especially in cinema-loving Kerala.​

Films lacking Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) approval require special I&B Ministry exemption for festival screenings, and the absence of these has stalled the IFFK schedule.

Veteran filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan decried restrictions on landmarks like Battleship Potemkin, The Hour of the Furnaces, and the Spanish film Beef, calling it a “clear misunderstanding of cinema” that judges by titles or politics, undermining artistic freedom. Organizers are negotiating resolutions before the festival ends on December 19, amid delegate inconvenience.

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Filmmaker Anees Bazmee has officially confirmed that he is reuniting with Akshay Kumar after a gap of 15 years. While speculation around their collaboration had been circulating for some time, Bazmee put an end to the rumours by revealing that the duo is working on a new comedy project.

Speaking to Mid-Day, Bazmee shared that the script for the film is nearing completion. “It is a comedy. I am writing the script right now, it’s almost complete. If everything goes as planned, we will start shooting soon,” he said. The film is currently untitled, and while reports had suggested that it could be a remake of the Telugu action-comedy Sankranthiki Vasthunam, Bazmee chose not to comment on those claims.

The director, however, spoke warmly about his long-standing relationship with Akshay Kumar. Reflecting on their bond, Bazmee said there has always been mutual respect between them. “There is mutual love and respect between us. When I told him about this film, he was more than happy,” he added, noting that they remained in touch over the years despite not collaborating since Thank You (2011).

Having said that, it is worth mentioning that Bollywood Hungama was among the first ones to report about Akshay Kumar and Anees Bazmee's reunion. Readers may recall that a source told Bollywood Hungama, "Anees and Akshay loved the plot of the lead character stuck between his wife and ex-girlfriend that Sankranthiki Vasthunam rides on. However, the original had a lot of Telugu flavour. To make the film palatable for the Hindi audience, Anees Bazmee is reimagining the film, keeping the core plot intact."

On the work front, Akshay Kumar has a busy slate ahead. The actor will be seen in Haiwaan and Bhoot Bangla, both directed by Priyadarshan, and is also set to return to the Hera Pheri franchise with Hera Pheri 3, once again under Priyadarshan’s direction.

Also Read: Anees Bazmee CONFIRMS Bhool Bhulaiyaa 4, says, “It is work in progress”

After touching hearts with Sitaare Zameen Par, Aamir Khan Productions is now turning the spotlight towards the people who quietly shaped the journey behind the scenes. The makers have unveiled the trailer of Sitaaron Ke Sitaare, a documentary that introduces audiences to the real stars behind the film — the parents of the young actors who featured in the sports comedy-drama.

Sitaaron Ke Sitaare traces the lives, emotions, and everyday realities of the parents whose children became the ‘Sitaare’ of Sitaare Zameen Par. While the film itself emerged as a heartwarming family entertainer and resonated deeply with audiences, the documentary expands that emotional universe by focusing on the journeys that unfolded off-screen. The trailer offers glimpses of intimate moments, shared struggles, pride, and the process of growing up alongside their children’s dreams.

Directed by Shaanib Bakshi, the documentary continues Aamir Khan Productions’ pattern of taking unconventional routes to storytelling. It follows the studio’s earlier decision to make Sitaare Zameen Par available on YouTube through the “Janta Ka Theater” initiative at a nominal price, a move that challenged traditional distribution models and widened access for audiences across the country.

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Sitaaron Ke Sitaare is set to premiere on 19th December, exclusively on Aamir Khan Talkies’ YouTube channel.

The documentary builds upon the legacy of Sitaare Zameen Par, which starred Aamir Khan and Genelia Deshmukh in lead roles and introduced ten rising talents — Aroush Datta, Gopi Krishna Varma, Samvit Desai, Vedant Sharma, Ayush Bhansali, Ashish Pendse, Rishi Shahani, Rishabh Jain, Naman Mishra, and Simran Mangeshkar. The film was directed by R. S. Prasanna, known for Shubh Mangal Saavdhan, and released in theatres on June 20, 2025.

Also Read: PVR INOX hosts special screening of Sitaare Zameen Par for Indian Air Force personnel

Dharma Productions has acquired Cornerstone’s stake in its talent management venture, Dharma Cornerstone Agency, and relaunched it under a new name — Dharma Collab Artists Agency (DCAA). The move marks a strategic expansion of Dharma’s presence beyond filmmaking into a wider cultural and talent ecosystem.

With the rebranding, DCAA will function as Dharma Productions’ exclusive platform for artist representation, spanning film, music, sports, digital media, live experiences, and cultural collaborations. The agency will continue to be led by Uday Singh Gauri as CEO and Rajeev Masand as COO, ensuring continuity as the company enters its next phase of growth.

Uday Singh Gauri, who brings over two decades of experience across talent management, music, live entertainment, and strategic partnerships, is expected to focus on expanding the agency’s reach and building new verticals. The aim, according to the leadership, is to help artists navigate careers that increasingly move across formats and platforms rather than remain limited to a single medium.

Apoorva Mehta, CEO of Dharma Productions, said, "Talent has always shaped Dharma’s identity, influencing both our creative choices and how we build for the future. With DCAA, we are creating a structured platform that supports artists across disciplines. This is a deliberate and long-term step toward deepening our role in the creative economy."

Speaking about the relaunch, Uday Singh Gauri said, "With DCAA, we’re building a platform that reflects the way artists work, express, and grow today. Representation now goes far beyond negotiation and visibility. It requires cultural understanding, business instinct, and the ability to move with — and ahead of — the industry. Our focus is on developing long-term careers across multiple formats, while creating meaningful pathways between talent and opportunity. This is about scale, yes, but it’s also about care, clarity, and collaboration."

DCAA’s current roster includes a mix of film actors, musicians, digital creators, and cultural voices such as Janhvi Kapoor, Ananya Panday, Sara Ali Khan, Disha Patani, Rasha Thadani, Aditya Roy Kapur, Harshvardhan Rane, Lakshya, Rohit Saraf, Neeti Mohan, Jonita Gandhi, Orry, Sumukhi Suresh, among others.

Dharma Productions, founded in 1976 by the late Yash Johar and now jointly owned by Karan Johar and Adar Poonawalla, has built a reputation for launching new talent while delivering commercially successful and critically acclaimed films. With DCAA, the studio appears to be extending that legacy into artist management, positioning itself as a long-term partner in shaping careers across entertainment and culture.

Also Read: Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions takes 100% control of talent venture after amicable split with Cornerstone

Vidya Balan has joined the cast of Jailer 2, adding a significant new dimension to the much-anticipated sequel to Rajinikanth’s 2023 blockbuster. Directed once again by Nelson Dilipkumar and produced by Sun Pictures, the film is shaping up to be a larger and more narratively driven follow-up to one of Kollywood’s biggest recent successes.

According to a source close to the production quoted by Pinkvilla, Vidya Balan was approached with the script and was immediately drawn to both the story and the depth of her character. The source revealed that the actor was impressed by the complexity of the role, which is said to be central to the plot and responsible for a major turning point in the film. Described as a strong, layered character, her part is expected to bring emotional weight and narrative depth to the sequel, marking her return to a high-profile commercial entertainer.

Vidya Balan’s inclusion is being seen as a move that pushes Jailer 2 beyond scale and spectacle, strengthening its storytelling ambitions. While the first film leaned heavily on Rajinikanth’s screen presence and mass moments, the sequel appears to be expanding its emotional and dramatic scope with carefully written supporting characters.

Rajinikanth will reprise his role as Tiger Muthuvel Pandian, a character that struck a chord across age groups in the original film. This time, the sequel promises higher stakes, with Muthuvel facing more dangerous adversaries and navigating bloodier, more intense conflicts. Nelson Dilipkumar returns to the director’s chair, aiming to raise the bar further while retaining the core elements that made Jailer a phenomenon.

On the release front, reports suggest that the makers are eyeing August 14, 2026, for the theatrical release of Jailer 2. The date would align the film with a long Independence Day weekend, a strategy similar to the August release window of the first part. Interestingly, it also mirrors the timing of Rajinikanth’s Coolie, which was released over the same holiday weekend earlier this year. While discussions around the final release date are still ongoing, the intention is clearly to position the sequel as a major festival release with Pan-India appeal.

Also Read: Rajinikanth’s 75th birthday becomes a star-studded celebration as Dhanush and Kamal Haasan honour him on his journey

Last month, the industry and moviegoers were in mourning as Dharmendra passed away on November 24 at the age of 89. More than a month after he left for the heavenly abode, his much-loved film Yamla Pagla Deewana (2011) is expected to be re-released in cinemas.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “The re-release of Yamla Pagla Deewana will serve as a tribute to the man who was unanimously loved and who left an indelible mark in the world of cinema. The film seems apt for a re-run as it’s not very old, still looks fresh and entertaining and also stars Dharmendra along with his two sons, Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol.”

The source continued, “Earlier, the plan was to re-release Yamla Pagla Deewana this Friday, December 19. But due to the Dhurandhar wave, NH Studioz, which holds the rights to the film, has decided to change the plan. Yamla Pagla Deewana is now expected to arrive in cinemas on January 1, 2026. A final decision will be taken in a few days from now.”

Yamla Pagla Deewana was directed by Samir Karnik and its title was inspired by the song ‘Main Jat Yamla Pagla Deewana’ from the 1975 film, Pratigya, also starring Dharmendra. A remixed version of the title track was a part of the film and added to its popularity. Yamla Pagla Deewana told the story of an Indian based in Canada who travels to Banaras to locate his estranged brother and father. Trouble arises when the trio travel to Punjab to help the younger brother win the love of his life while dealing with her crazy family.

Yamla Pagla Deewana opened at Rs. 7.95 crores, which was a healthy number then, and collected Rs. 55.28 crores in its lifetime. The film was loved for its comedy and mass appeal, and also because Dharmendra, Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol all had strong roles with ample screen time. Its success led the makers to come up with Yamla Pagla Deewana 2 (2013) and Yamla Pagla Deewana Phir Se (2018). However, both these films failed to work at the box office.

Also Read: Esha Deol pays moving tribute to Dharmendra, sharing touching montage of personal and film memories