Bollywood
Mani Ratnam expresses desire to work with Sai Pallavi; says, “I hope I get to work with you one day”
At the Amaran audio launch in Chennai last week, filmmaker Mani Ratnam expressed his interest in collaborating with Sai Pallavi. The actor, who made her debut in Alphonse Puthren's Premam, was initially considered by Ratnam for a role in Kaatru Veliyidai, marking her Tamil cinema debut. However, the project did not come to fruition, and Karthi and Aditi Rao Hydari took on the lead roles in the film.
The audio launch of Amaran was held at Sai Ram Engineering College in Chennai, with Mani Ratnam attending as one of the chief guests.
Speaking about Sai Pallavi, he stated, “I am a big fan. I hope I get to work with you one day.” The Shyam Singha Roy actress expressed her delight after hearing the director's words of praise.
She replied to him, “Before coming to cinema, I didn’t know many directors by their names, except Mani Ratnam. In fact, he is one of the reasons I am choosy about scripts and roles.”
Amaran is a biopic about the late Major Mukund Varadarajan, directed by Rajkumar Periyasamy. Sivakarthikeyan stars as Major Mukund Varadarajan, while Sai Pallavi portrays his love interest. The film is based on the book India's Most Fearless: True Stories of the Modern Military by Shiv Aroor and Rahul Singh.
Also Read : Shah Rukh Khan touches Mani Ratnam’s feet as he receives award for Best Actor for Jawan at IIFA 2024
read moreNeha Dhupia shares heartfelt note on launching GoFloRun; opens up about her deep connection with running
Neha Dhupia decided to take her long-standing love for running a step further by highlighting how it has been her way of finding freedom, no matter her mood or pace. Inspired by the incredible discipline and strength of the running community, Dhupia, alongside her running partner and a national level athlete, Anita Lobo, has launched GoFloRun.
Taking to her official handle on Instagram, Neha Dhupia shared a heartfelt post about her love for running and its deeper significance in her life, along with announcing this event. In the note, she wrote, “The one thing I have always loved to do is run … whether I am happy or sad or free or busy…. I would always crave a run and this never meant that I was good or fast or athletic it only meant I would listen to my mind and my body and decide my strength and pace on that day and set myself free … the more I stepped out , the more runners I would meet and realised it’s such a great community with so much physical and mental strength and discipline… and also one that has the ability to grow.”
She went on to add, “So as a baby step towards making women and little girls more a little more healthier … me and my running partner @anita_lobo13 have started @goflorun … a wonderful race that invites women n girls across the city and nation , 12 years and above … come run/ walk n step out with us on the 8th of December 2024 , in #Mumbai for a healthier today and tomorrow and also for raising awareness about a less talked about and heavily impactful subject of menstrual health.”
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Speaking about GoFloRun, this unique race encourages women and girls, 12 years and above, to participate and prioritize their health. It aims to foster a supportive space for women to take control of their fitness journey, making strides toward healthier lives.
Also Read: Neha Dhupia to host inaugural GoFlo Run in Mumbai, promoting Women’s Health and Community
read moreRahul Dholakia reveals Aishwarya Rai Bachchan was to make Bollywood debut in Hum Bacche Hai Ek Daal Ke: “The director’s arrogance was of another level only”
Filmmaker Rahul Dholakia recently shared a fascinating anecdote about Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's early days in the Indian film industry. In a candid conversation, Dholakia revealed that the former Miss World was originally slated to make her Bollywood debut in a different film than the one that eventually launched her career.
Dholakia recounted his involvement in a film titled Hum Bacche Hai Ek Daal Ke. This unreleased project, which also featured Suniel Shetty, was set to be Aishwarya Rai's inaugural foray into Hindi cinema. In a conversation with Mukesh Chhabra for Mashable, director Rahul Dholakia revealed, “I had handled the production for a film called Hum Bacche Hai Ek Daal Ke. It was Aishwarya Rai’s first film, which was never released, with Suniel Shetty. Suniel had asked me to handle the production. It was directed by Shashilal Nair and Rahul Gupta was the producer. I was handling the production for that and one thing I learned was what a director shouldn’t do. The incidents from there are so stupid… They wanted the best unit and crew, so I got them the action director of the film Independence Day.”
However, the film's production was plagued by challenges, primarily stemming from the director's unreasonable demands. He further added, “The director’s arrogance was of another level only, but that kind of attitude doesn’t work in America. He wanted to shoot an action sequence at the Grand Canyon where boulders fall and wanted the boulders to be the size of a room. He asked for 1000 boulders of that size, and when he was asked how many takes he would take for that scene, he got offended. Half of the time would go into these things, so I learned from that production that one should not be unreasonable, and think ahead.”
Despite the challenges, Dholakia's experience of working on Hum Bacche Hai Ek Daal Ke proved valuable. He learned important lessons about the filmmaking process, emphasizing the importance of practicality, compromise, and a collaborative approach.
While the film ultimately remained unreleased, Aishwarya Rai's journey in the Indian film industry continued. Her debut in Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya marked the beginning of a remarkable career that has spanned decades. ALSO READ: Director Rahul Dholakia reveals Shah Rukh Khan shot action scenes in Raees despite painful knee injury: “His knee would swell up”
read moreKartik Aaryan expresses his experience of working with Vidya Balan and Madhuri Dixit in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3; says, “I felt like I was in a dream”
Kartik Aaryan is preparing for the release of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, where he returns as Rooh Baba in the popular horror-comedy franchise. The trailer and title track hint at the addition of Vidya Balan as Manjulika, along with Madhuri Dixit joining the cast.
In a recent interview with ANI, Kartik was seen speaking about his experience of working with Vidya Balan and Madhuri Dixit in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. He said, “I felt like I was in a dream...could not be more grateful that I got the chance to share screen space with Vidya ji and Madhuri ji in the film and that too with them in one frame. I will always remember this. I have learnt so much from them. I have always been a big fan of Madhuri ji and Vidya ji. From having lunch together with them on sets to acting with them, I will remember the moments spent with them on Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 sets for a lifetime.”
With Kartik Aaryan reprising the role of Rooh Baba from superhit Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, he will be seen with Tripti Dimri, the OG Manjulika, Vidya Balan and her partner in crime, Madhuri Dixit.
Directed by Anees Bazmee and produced by Bhushan Kumar, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 is set for release on November 1, 2024, continuing the popular horror-comedy franchise. The film is scheduled to hit theaters this Diwali.
Also Read : Kartik Aaryan surprises fans as he attends Grammy award-winning Alan Walker’s show in Mumbai to promote Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3
read moreDo Patti: Kajol showers praises on Kriti Sanon; says, "It was amazing to witness her transform from one character to the other"
National Award winner Kriti Sanon is all set to prove her mettle as an actor once again. With this being a highly successful for her, with back-to-back blockbusters like Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya and Crew, the actress is set on taking a new role of a producer. After the trailer was unveiled recently, while many of her fans have showered praises on Sanon for experimenting yet again with another intriguing role, the actress also seems to have earned appreciation from her co-stars, especially from one of the most popular actresses, Kajol.
Adding to that, Sanon will be seen in a unique kind of twin role in the upcoming Do Patti that also marks her reunion with Dilwale co-star Kajol. Speaking about Kriti as an actress and excited about her second collab with the star, Kajol said, "Kriti has come far since Dilwale." She further added, "There has been a wonderful growth spurt in her filmography. It was amazing to witness her transform from one character to the other in this film.” Amid many glam roles, Kriti Sanon has also made a mark as a versatile star by portraying diverse and quirky characters on screen.
Interestingly, Do Patti is also a special film for Kajol since it will be the first time she will be playing the role of a cop in this thriller. Marking the film debut of television star Shaheer Sheikh, the film is produced by Kriti’s banner Blue Butterfly Films along with Kanika Dhillon’s Kathha Pictures. Along with Kriti, Kajol, and Shaheer, it will also feature Tanvi Azmi, Brijendra Kalra, Vivek Mushran, Prachee Shah Pandya, among others. It is slated for release on October 25 on Netflix.
Also Read: Do Patti Trailer Launch: Kriti Sanon auditioned with 10 actors before Shaheer Sheikh was cast as the male lead: “Aadhe toh ghabra gaye the”
read moreVarun Dhawan sparks excitement as he drops video of Priyanka Chopra referring to him as her ‘father’ in Citadel
The entire spy world Citadel will be coming together with multiple versions being unveiled across the world which are all expected to amalgamate into one universe. The third version, the Indian web-series Citadel: Honey Bunny is all set to be unveiled next month. Ahead of its premiere, as leading stars Varun Dhawan and Samantha Ruth Prabhu have dived completely into its promotions, the actor has dropped an intriguing video of Priyanka Chopra that has sparked a new level of excitement among fans.
It is a known fact that Varun Dhawan and Samantha Ruth Prabhu are playing spies from the 90s in this action thriller and they have a daughter named Nadia. This story line later connects to the Citadel, U.S. version with Priyanka Chopra taking on the role of Nadia Sinh. While this was also discussed in the trailer launch where Dhawan and Sam discussed about playing parents to the younger version of PC, Varun has shared another interesting video where there are multiple references made to him in the American web-series released in April 2023. Introducing himself as ‘Rahi Gambir’, the SOTY actor took to Instagram on Monday to share this interesting clip. The short video showcases how Priyanka describes Rahi Gambir as her ‘father’ and how she is proud of being his daughter.
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While many appreciated Varun Dhawan returning to his action mode in this action entertainer, a few others dropped ‘can’t wait’ comments on the platform. Marking the first onscreen collaboration of Varun Dhawan with Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Citadel: Honey Bunny features the two actors as targeted spies who are on the run. It is directed by Raj Nidimoru and Krishna DK. The show will premiere on Amazon Prime Video on November 7.
Also Read: Photos: Varun Dhawan, Samantha Ruth Prabhu, and others snapped promoting their spy thriller Citadel: Honey Bunny
read moreFrom reel to real: Vidya Balan's method dressing revolution
Vidya Balan is known for her method dressing during film promotions, curating her wardrobe to align with her characters. In her latest film Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, she sticks to black sarees and outfits. This approach has been consistent throughout her career, including iconic films like Ishqiya, where her saree choices reflected her character’s personality.
Ishqiya: In this film, Vidya wore sarees in the reverse pallu draping style in bhadkeela colours, which not only added a unique visual element but also reflected her character's bold and unconventional personality.
Kahaani: For this thriller, Vidya wore a fake baby bump during promotions, blurring the lines between her real and reel life and adding an extra layer of authenticity to her portrayal of a pregnant woman on a mission to find her missing husband.
The Dirty Picture: Vidya's retro-inspired outfits in this biographical drama were crucial in capturing the essence of the 1980s and the flamboyant personality of Silk Smitha, the character she portrayed.
No One Killed Jessica: Vidya opted for kurtis and spectacles, which helped in portraying the serious and determined nature of her character, a journalist seeking justice.
Tumhari Sulu: In this heartwarming film, Vidya's choice of simple & regular sarees and prints underscored her character's middle-class background and her simple, yet vibrant personality.
Vidya Balan’s approach to method dressing during film promotions has set a new standard in Indian cinema. Her ability to use her wardrobe as a tool to make her characters unforgettable is a testament to her dedication and understanding of her craft. By paying attention to the smallest details, she ensures that her characters are not only believable but also memorable.
Also Read : MAMI Masterclass: Shabana Azmi reveals mainstream cinema’s obsession with ‘gandi si kangi’; adds “If I asked Manmohan Desai, ‘Iska kya matlab hai?’, he would reply, ‘Iska kuch matlab nahin hai. Yeh Satyajit Ray ki picture nahin hai’”
read moreFrom Ramayana to Kantara 2: 2025’s most anticipated big-budget Pan-India films
With new movie releases slowing down and re-releases of old films filling theatres, the cinema-going experience seems to be in a transitional phase. As audiences wait for fresh content, the question of what the future holds for theatres becomes more pressing. Fortunately, 2025 promises to deliver several big-budget Pan-India films that could reinvigorate the industry and reignite excitement at the box office.
Movies like Ramayana, G2, Salaar 2, Kantara: Chapter 1, and Dacoit are being produced on massive budgets and are slated for theatrical releases next year. These films, featuring top-tier stars and high-concept storytelling, are expected to draw huge crowds and dominate box offices across the country.
Veteran film critic and trade analyst Taran Adarsh remarked, “I think it’s a great and healthy trend that older movies are being re-released in the theatres right now. It’s not new because you know the 70’s and the 80’s also saw phases of older films being re-released.” Looking forward to 2025, he commented, “Especially, at a time when there’s a vacuum of content being released in the theatres, these upcoming Pan-Indian releases are definitely something I’ll look out for. And the south Indian film industry has consistently pushed out good content so I’m looking forward to the coming year.”
With a lineup of highly anticipated films, 2025 might just be the year cinema bounces back in a big way.
Also Read: Vijay Kiragandur unveils exciting updates on Kantara 2 and KGF: “We’ve completed about 30 per cent of the filming”
read moreTake a look at Malavika Mohanan’s 5 festive style moments to try this Diwali!
With Diwali around the corner, Malavika Mohanan adds a touch of glamour to the festive season through her impeccable fashion choices. Known for her sartorial finesse, the actress masterfully blends opulence with understated sophistication, establishing herself as a fashion icon. With standout roles in Sardar 2 and Raja Sahab opposite Prabhas, Malavika’s style off-screen is as compelling as her on-screen presence. Here’s a look at her latest festive ensembles that define elegance, artistry, and timeless appeal.
A Riot of Color: The Rainbow Lehenga Malavika stuns in a vibrant multicolored lehenga, perfectly embodying the festive spirit. The kaleidoscopic hues of the lehenga are artfully paired with a glittering gold blouse, creating a visual spectacle. Each shade seamlessly flows into the next, resembling a beautiful rainbow. This striking ensemble celebrates traditional craftsmanship while embracing modern flair, proving that Malavika knows how to make a statement in color.
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Scarlet Sensation: Radiating in Red Red never fails to command attention, and Malavika turns heads in a stunning red Banarasi saree. The intricate gold zari work elevates the look, making it a perfect blend of heritage and contemporary style. The saree’s rich crimson hue complements her radiant skin tone, while the traditional Banarasi artwork adds a layer of depth to the ensemble. This look is the epitome of festive opulence, effortlessly balancing boldness with grace.
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Ivory Elegance: A Lesson in Subtle Glamour For those who favor subtlety, Malavika’s ivory lehenga is the perfect inspiration. Adorned with delicate floral embroidery, this ensemble is a testament to the beauty of intricate detailing. The flowing silhouette, paired with statement jewelry, adds a regal touch, while the soft palette creates an air of timeless elegance. This look showcases how simplicity can be strikingly sophisticated.
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Gold Glam: Glitter Meets Tradition Malavika brings the perfect mix of glamour and tradition in a dazzling lehenga ensemble. The short-sleeved blouse, adorned with multicolored floral embroidery and beaded tassels, adds a playful yet refined element to the outfit. Her shimmering gold skirt flows with grace, while statement accessories like gold jhumkas and a maangtika elevate the festive charm. This look encapsulates a regal aesthetic, perfect for those who want to shine during the celebrations.
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Green Goddess: A Festive Dream Malavika never fails to enchant with her sartorial choices, and her green lehenga choli is no exception. Featuring intricate tie-knot detailing, this ensemble creates a silhouette that flatters and flows beautifully. The vibrant red dupatta adds a pop of contrast, further enhancing the visual appeal of the outfit. Paired with her radiant smile and effortless charm, this look is a true testament to Malavika’s reign as a modern-day fashion queen.
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Malavika Mohanan continues to captivate with her bold, festive wardrobe, blending traditional artistry with contemporary fashion. Whether it’s through vivid colors or intricate embroidery, her style speaks to the beauty of craftsmanship and her innate ability to carry off any look with grace and poise.
Also Read: Malavika Mohanan shares a sneak peek from the intense action sequence from her upcoming film Sardar 2
read moreAjay Devgn reveals how Singham character became a favorite among women and kids
Bajirao Singham is back, and this time he’s bringing even more action-packed thrills in Singham Again. Promising to take audiences on a adrenaline-pumping ride with heart-pounding sequences and intense drama, the film’s trailer has already stirred up major buzz among fans. To raise the excitement, film's director Rohit Shetty and superstar Ajay Devgn graced a special fans screening of Singham (2011) where the duo interacted with fans and shared exciting updates about the upcoming third instalment.
At the event, Ajay Devgn was asked about the time he felt this character had the potential to tell more stories. Responding to it, Ajay Devgn said, “Not really, Its just that after the release of Singham and then the kind of response we got from the audiences. Especially it was very strange for the first time in my life also, like typical action masala film was liked and the character was loved by the kids and women.” He added, “I think this is the first time that the character like this where women started liking, I think it was a character that women thought that if you have a Man it should be like this. In men it would work because its an action film but when it started working in kids and women thats where you knew that there’s something right in the character”.
Coming to Singham Again, the film has sparked much excitement not only because it marks the third film in the franchise but also because it boasts of an extensive star cast. With Kareena Kapoor Khan as Avni Bajirao Singham, Ranveer Singh as police officer Simmba, Akshay Kumar as ATS officer Sooryavanshi, Deepika Padukone as IPS Shakti Shetty, Tiger Shroff as ACP Satya, and Arjun Kapoor as Danger Lanka, the film is expected to be inspired by the mythological tale of Ramayana and is a modern retelling of the epic battle that ensues between Lord Rama and Ravana after Goddess Sita becomes the latter’s hostage. The film will release in cinemas on November 1.
Also Read: Ajay Devgn and Rohit Shetty snapped at a multiplex screening Singham part 1 to interact with fans and promote Singham Again
read moreVasan Bala says he let Alia Bhatt down with Jigra’s failure; says, “She has trusted me with that choice”
Featuring Alia Bhatt and Vedang Raina, Vasan Bala's Jigra was one of the year's most anticipated films. However, it struggled at the box office and faced some controversies following its release. In a recent interview, the director expressed his desire to analyse what went wrong with Jigra.
In a discussion with Fever FM, Vasan Bala addressed the film's failure, noting that it has been labelled as Alia Bhatt's “lowest box office opener” to date. He admitted that he felt he had let Bhatt down with the film's disappointing outcome. He said, “She is the first choice for everyone. She could have been on any other film set, but Jigra, during that time. So, she has to make that choice. And she has trusted me with that choice. So, it is my responsibility to deliver box office because we are in the business of filmmaking also.”
Bala stated that he wanted to investigate what went wrong with Jigra. He said, “So, which is why I need to analyse. Kuch toh hua hai na (Something has happened, right)? Something has happened where people have stayed away, something that they have not bought, something that they didn’t feel the need to come to the theatre. If at all any other actor decides to give their time, his or her, then you know, make it worth it.”
Jigra earned Rs. 4.55 crores on its opening day in India. Following its release, the movie became embroiled in several controversies. Divya Khosla criticized the filmmakers for allegedly manipulating box office figures and for plagiarizing her film, Savi. Additionally, Manipur actor Bijou Thaangjam accused the creators of discrimination and “unprofessional behavior.”
The film was produced by Dharma Productions and presented by Viacom18 Studios and Eternal Sunshine Productions. The plot centres around a sister who goes to great lengths to rescue her brother from a prison overseas.
Also Read : Vasan Bala shares honest thoughts on Jigra’s box office performance: “It is never graceful to defend a film after a point”
read moreSingham Again: Rohit Shetty reveals the unique point in the Ajay Devgn starrer
Ever since the trailer of the highly-anticipated Singham Again has been unveiled, the excitement for its release is quite palpable. Bringing together a bevy of stars, the brief four-minute clip unveiled the close connection that the film shares with the mythological saga of Ramayana as it focuses a lot on the ‘Seeta Apaharan (Kidnapping of Goddess Sita)’ and the aftermath. Now, filmmaker Rohit Shetty shared a glimpse of the extensive research that he has done on the film and revealed a uniquely guarded secret about the action entertainer.
Readers would be aware that the mythological saga of Ramayana featured a massive battle that ensues between Lord Rama and Ravana after the kidnapping of Seeta, who is held captive in the Ashoka Vatika Forest in Sri Lanka. Referring to the same, Rohit Shetty revealed that they have shot portions of Singham Again in the actual spot where the Goddess was held captive. The filmmaker opened up about the same and said, “We travelled all the way from Maharashtra to Sri Lanka. The locations are all places where the incidents have happened. Many of us know the story but not the actual location where it happened. So that is the unique point in this film."
Speaking of Singham Again, the film marks the third instalment of the Singham franchise and the fifth in the Rohit Shetty copverse. Starring Ajay Devgn in the titular role of police officer Bajirao Singham, it stars Kareena Kapoor Khan as his wife Avni, Arjun Kapoor as the antagonist, along with Ranveer Singh as police officer Simmba, Akshay Kumar as Anti-terrorism squad officer Sooryavanshi, Deepika Padukone as IPS Shakti Shetty, Tiger Shroff as ACP Satya, and Jackie Shroff too features in a key role. The film will release during Diwali this year.
Also Read: SCOOP: Salman Khan’s Chulbul Pandey cameo dropped from Singham Again – Here’s why fans won’t see the epic crossover
read moreTiger Shroff’s films help young boy master gymnastics through his stunts; deets inside
Bollywood’s youngest action superstar Tiger Shroff has a remarkable ability to inspire his fans. It’s no secret that Tiger has an insane fan following specially boys and younger kids who also call themselves Tigerians. Recently, an X user shared a photo of a young boy named Shambay, who has been motivated by Tiger’s acrobatic stunts.
The user wrote, “Shambay, who comes from a poor family, has been learning gymnastics for the last two years by watching online videos of an Indian YouTuber, ‘Aman Gymnast’, and movies featuring Bollywood star, Tiger Shroff, who is widely known for his acrobatic stunts.” This shows how Tiger Shroff encourages young children to pursue their dreams and leaves a lasting impression through his films. Inspired by Tiger’s amazing stunts, Shambay started teaching himself gymnastics by practicing the moves he saw in movies.
In the past, Tiger made headlines for agreeing to make a cameo in an upcoming film focused on special kids. As per reports he has not charged a single penny for his role, reflecting his genuine desire to support meaningful stories. He will appear in Palash Muchhal's Hum Tum Maktoob, with the director expressing gratitude on Instagram. He wrote, “Man with a golden heart! Thank you, Tiger Shroff, for this beautiful gesture of doing a cameo in Hum Tum Maktoob,” alongside a picture from the
On the work front, Tiger is gearing up for several exciting projects. His devoted fans, fondly known as Tigerians, are eager for him to unleash #TheTigerEffect in full force with upcoming films. This includes his highly anticipated return to the fan-favourite Baaghi franchise with its fourth instalment, Baaghi 4. He is also gearing up for his debut as the youngest cop in Rohit Shetty's ‘Singham Again’, where he will portray ACP Satya, promising to bring #TheTigerEffect to the screen on November 1, 2024.
Also Read: Singham Again Trailer Launch: Tiger Shroff expresses gratitude as he gears up to play the perfect ‘Laxman’ to Singham in the Rohit Shetty copverse film
read more25 Years of Taal EXCLUSIVE: Subhash Ghai reveals that Govinda was the original choice for Anil Kapoor’s role: “He declined since the heroine was marrying Akshaye Khanna. He told me, ‘Yeh film ki toh main character actor ban jaunga’”
Subhash Ghai, Anil Kapoor, A R Rahman, Ramesh Taurani, Kumar Taurani, Udit Narayan, Shiamak Davar and others attended the 25th anniversary special screening of Taal (1999) in Mumbai. It was held in PVR Juhu, Mumbai by Radio Nasha and was well organized by RJ Rohini, RJ Divya Solgama and their team. Before the event, the Showman, Subhash Ghai, spoke exclusively to Bollywood Hungama about the film and a lot more.
As per the July 17, 1999 issue of Komal Nahta’s Film Information Magazine, the screen size of Metro Cinema, Mumbai was increased by 33%, especially for Taal. What made you ask the cinema hall to do so? We used modern technology to compose the soundtrack and shoot the visuals. Hence, it was important for us that we get the right effect on screen. And in the 90s, most theatres were not in good condition. I had to visit many main theatres in different cities in India. I requested their owners to check their sound quality and if their sound is inferior, it should be changed to the Dolby system. After all, I had worked very hard on the songs. It took as many as 32 days to mix the songs and 70 days to record the songs!
Hence, I told the exhibitors, ‘Humne itna badhiya kaam kiya hai. Aap co-operate karo’. As for Metro, I felt the screen was small. Hence, I made a request to them to increase the screen size. I told the owner, ‘Hamari saari filmein aapke theatre mein hit hui hai. Aapne paise kamaya hai. Ab hamare liye kuch kijiye’ (smiles). They understood why I was saying so and agreed to make the change.
I remember watching the film in Metro Cinema and there was a lightening effect done at the end of the song ‘Taal Se Taal Mila’… (Smiles) Yes, and we did it to enhance the cinematic experience of the viewers.
Through Film Information magazine, we also learned that Taal was the first Hindi film to get a release in IMAX at the IMAX 3D theatre in White River State Park, Indianapolis, USA… This is the first Hindi film that appeared in the Hollywood trade magazine Variety in their top 10 chart. Hence, it got recognition amid Hollywood and Korean films. There were theatres with 10-12 screens in the USA. Taal was playing all the 10 screens and all shows were sold out. There was a huge craze for the film.
As for the IMAX release, the film had effects which were apt for an IMAX viewing. Hence, when viewers saw Taal, they felt like they were watching an IMAX-worthy film.
In the film, we see Aishwarya Rai Bachchan doing difficult yoga poses. Did she have to undergo training for those scenes? She is a great dancer and I asked her if she can do the poses shown in the film. She agreed instantly. She even showed me that she can bend in different ways. Once I saw that, I wrote the scene accordingly. She proved to be the biggest asset for Taal. Her beauty, her grace and her talent played a huge part.
Is it true that Govinda was the first choice for the role played by Anil Kapoor? I wrote the first draft keeping Govinda in mind. But Govinda declined since the heroine was marrying Akshaye Khanna in the end. He told me, ‘Yeh film maine ki toh main kahin character actor toh nahin ban jaunga?’! I replied, ‘Then I advise you not to do this film’. That’s when I approached Anil Kapoor; he’s a permanent artist at Mukta Arts!
After the success of Gadar 2 and the hype surrounding Border 2, there’s a growing trend of sequels to films older than 2 decades. Keeping this in mind, have you thought of Taal 2? A lot of people have approached us for Taal 2, Khalnayak 2, Karma 2, etc. At Mukta, we have a great library. The trend of sequels is there and let’s see (if we make one).
What next? I have been writing a script for 3-4 years. I hope to announce it by the end of the year.
Also Read: Subhash Ghai recalls transforming his inner personality for Taal as Anil Kapoor-Aishwarya Rai starrer re-releases: “Not an easy film for me as it looks now”
read moreLalit Pandit rubbishes Kumar Sanu's claim of singing 'Tujhe Dekha Toh' in 30 minutes; says, "It's a pure lie"; also claims how he and Jatin Pandit made efforts to retain his voice in the song
Kumar Sanu’s claims that he recorded the Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge chartbuster ‘Tujhe dekha toh yeh jana sanam’ in 30 minutes has incensed Lalit Pandit, one-half of the Jatin-Lalit duo who composed the evergreen song. “To say that he sang the song in 30 minutes is a pure lie! No one has ever sung our song in that short a time. Sanu too had sung for hours and hours sometimes to complete a song as was required to be rendered by us Jatin-Lalit. And to say he sang along with Lataji on the same day is a complete lie. Lataji always preferred to sing separately during the time we worked with her. Her niece and our friend Rachana would coordinate and convey Lataji’s wishes that there be as less people during her recording as possible. Her wish was adhered to by us to keep her in comfort zone when she came to sing,” said Lalit.
He added, “On her particular dubbing day, we did nothing but dub her voice! She sang on another day and not with Sanu. Who would know this better than the people who did the dubbing? So, it’s not right to say something which has not happened the way it did. A singer’s participation in a song is as much as the day he or she sings a song. There is a lot that happens before and after the song based on the reactions from the team of how it has all gone. From the director, the producer and the entire team that has worked on the song. Out of a sense of decency, I will refrain from talking about the comments about Sanu’s singing from one of the most revered members of the team.”
Lalit added, “We support the singers who sing or sang for us and take things forward, but to hear someone say later that it’s his or her song makes, at least, me remind and remember what went through the song and what would have happened had me and Jatin not supported Sanu for the song under the circumstances that happened right after Sanu had finished his dubbing ‘Tujhe dekha’. This was his last song for Yashji. I don’t want to say why but I know exactly what had happened and how we supported to retain his voice for the song. He knows what happened and considering that, he should as courtesy, not forget to mention the people who made the song and who supported him having retained his voice for the song!”
Lalit Pandit was hurt by Sanu’s claim that ‘Tujhe dekha toh yeh jana sanam’ was Sanu’s song. He said, “BBC’s Asian network in a poll declared the song ‘Tujhe dekha’ the best song created in the 1990s and interviewed Kumar Sanu regarding the song and what he thought about it. I saw this interview sent to me by our fans and some of Kumar Sanu’s fans and they seemed very upset about Sanu throughout in the interview saying, ‘My song, my song’ repeatedly. Both of us, Jatin and me, found it surprising that he did not mention anybody’s name including Anand Bakshi Saab, Jatin-Lalit, or even the great Lata Mangeshkar! How was this song Kumar Sanu’s song? Did he create it or write it?”
He added, “Also this song had Lataji singing, and she certainly has more than a billion music lowers following her songs! One should not have underestimated the popularity of the song taking Lataji’s strength and contribution away. Every song that Lataji sang gained a huge popularity and as one knows, she sang the most for Jatin-Lalit in the last decade of her work, which were extremely successful including the entire music of DDLJ. To say that ‘Tujhe Dekha Toh’ was a Kumar Sanu song alone is incorrect. A song always belongs to the people who conceive and create the song. It is an Anand Bakshi, Jatin-Lalit creation. Sanu is a singer in the song, and which could have been anyone else had we not decided to make him sing ‘Tujhe dekha’. By the way, most of the songs of DDLJ are sung by Udit Narayan. And we haven’t heard him calling any of the songs ‘his’ song.”
Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Lalit Pandit of Jatin-Lalit duo disappointed by Kumar Sanu claiming sole ownership for ‘Tujhe Dekha Toh’; says, “Not good on his part”
read moreAditya Roy Kapur opens up on struggling with disappointing film offers and box office failures; says, “It was a tough period where I wasn’t liking anything”
After a successful career as a video jockey, Aditya Roy Kapur transitioned to Bollywood, achieving fame with Aashiqui 2. However, following the success of that movie and Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, his films began to perform poorly at the box office. In a recent interview, he reflected on this period of consecutive flops, describing it as a 'vulnerable' time in his life.
During a conversation with Kareena Kapoor Khan on her chat show What Women Want, Aditya opened up about coping with these failures. He explained that while his films weren't succeeding, he was also dissatisfied with the offers he received. The actor stated, “There have been vulnerable moments, like films not working or when one hasn’t had work. A few films didn’t do well, and I didn’t like anything (that was being offered), maybe because I was vulnerable at that point in time.”
Kapur claimed that during this terrible moment in his life, he did not work as much. He stated, “It was a tough period where I wasn’t liking anything and not working for a while.” He claimed that he received support from his friends and family throughout this time. He also discussed how the conclusion of a film affected an actor after they committed a large amount of time in it.
After his role in Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Kapur appeared in Dawat-e-Ishq and Fitoor, but neither film connected with audiences. He achieved success again with Ok Jaanu, but his most recent release, Gumraah, did not perform well. Additionally, he starred in Disney+ Hotstar's The Night Manager, which has recently been nominated for the International Emmys.
Also Read : Aditya Roy Kapur, Sara Ali Khan and Anurag Basu pull up goofy faces in Metro In Dino set pictures: “Madness mein hum teeno”
read more“Shanaya Kapoor was ‘traumatized’”, reveals mother Maheep Kapoor after the newbie’s debut film with Dharma was shelved
Maheep Kapoor couldn’t be more excited about returning to the reality show Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives which premiered last week. With all the gossips, drama, and fun as the Bollywood Wives meet the Delhi Divas, this season has been garnering ample excitement. The model turned entrepreneur Kapoor lady was seen having a heartfelt conversation with producer of the show and friend Karan Johar during the show wherein she opened up about the debut fauxpax of her daughter Shanaya Kapoor.
For the unversed, actor Sanjay Kapoor and Maheep Kapoor’s daughter Shanaya Kapoor has always been keen on taking up acting as a career and was expected to make her big Bollywood debut under the Dharma Productions’ banner with the film titled Bedhadak. The venture was announced with Lakshya of Kill fame and actor Gurfateh Pirzada as the leading men, with director Shashank Khaitan as the director. However, the film failed to take off. Addressing the same during a conversation in Fabulous Lives v/s Bollywood Wives, Maheep said, “Shanaya’s film didn’t start. She was traumatized. You had to intervene.”
In the same show, the Kapoor lady also opened up about her own bad phase which she underwent during the pandemic wherein she also lost her house help Rekha. “I was going through my own madness in my head. I had exposed myself to my old parents, and Shanaya after contracting COVID-19. We all fell like nine pins. Understand the trauma that I was going through after Rekha had passed away when doctors were saying that my old mother needs to go into hospital.”
Fabulous Lives v/s Bollywood Wives, produced under the banner Dharmatic Entertainment, revolves around the lives of Bollywood Queens Maheep Kapoor, Neelam Kothari Soni, Bhavana Pandey, Seema Sajdeh, and this time they are joined by the ‘Fabulous’ Delhi Divas Riddhima Kapoor Sahani, Shalini Passi, and Kalyani Saha Chawla. The show is currently streaming on Netflix.
Also Read: Shanaya Kapoor lands dream debut opposite Vikrant Massey in Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyaan: Report
read moreEXCLUSIVE: Tigmanshu Dhulia’s Ghamasaan to release in cinemas in the first quarter of 2025; Pratik Gandhi-Arshad Warsi starrer gets a ROARING response at MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2024
Arshad Warsi is known for his solid comic timing. But yesterday, October 20, he terrorized an audience of more than 200 at the screening of Ghamsaan held at MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2024 in a multiplex in Mumbai. The film received a great response and there were claps not just at the end but also during the film in key scenes. Arshad was joined by the other leading actor, Pratik Gandhi, at the gala premiere of the film. The others from the team of the film present at the screening were actor Ishita Dutta, director Tigmanshu Dhulia and producers Abhaynanad Singh and Ashwini Chaudhary. The film is also produced by Piiyush Singh along with Jyoti Deshpande of Jio Studios.
After the screening, a Q-and-A session was held with the team of Ghamasaan. Arshad Warsi revealed that he put on weight for the role and then had to struggle to shed the excess kilos. In his trademark style, he quipped, “Shuruaat mein hum Aamir Khan banne ki koshish karte hai, baad mein bhaari pad jaata hai.”
He added, “At this age, it becomes very difficult to lose that weight. Agli baar, acting se kaam chala lunga!”
Tigmanshu Dhulia made a valid point on why biopics are the flavour of the season, “Societymein hero milte nahin hai. Youngsters are spending time on useless stuff. It’s all about them – meri coffee, meri Barista etc. So, we don’t see heroes in society. That’s why biopics are made.”
Pratik Gandhi talked about his process of playing an honest cop after playing the corrupt cop in Tigmanshu Dhulia’s web show, The Great Indian Murder. Two members of the audience, who asked him a question, remarked that they are also Gujaratis like Pratik and hence, they have a bias for him. Arshad Warsi joked, “Koi iski acting talent ki baat bhi kar lo!”
At the end of the session, Abhaynanad Singh announced, “Ghamsaanwill be coming to theatres in the first quarter of 2025. It’s a theatrical release. Please spread the word.” He also thanked his fellow producers of the film, namely Jyoti Deshpande and Shobha Sant of Jio Studios.
Also Read: Scam 1992 star Pratik Gandhi to next be seen in Tigmanshu Dhulia’s web adaptation of the book Six Suspects
read moreSunny Deol celebrates 67th birthday on Jaat set, receives surprise visit from exhibitors benefiting from Gadar 2 success
Sunny Deol, a cherished Bollywood actor, revitalized the industry with the success of his last film, Gadar 2, in 2023. As he celebrated his 67th birthday on Saturday October 19, he posted photos from the set of his upcoming film, Jaat, on Instagram. He was joined by his co-star Randeep Hooda and the film's team, and he received a surprise visit from single-screen exhibitors who benefited from Gadar 2's success.
In his post, he shared images of himself cutting a large, personalized cake with the director, producer, crew, and co-actors of Jaat, including Randeep Hooda. He also expressed gratitude to Gadar 2 director Anil Sharma, Rajkumar Santoshi, and others who travelled from Hyderabad to personally wish him well.
A surprise visit from single-screen exhibitors was the highlight of the celebration. It's important to mention that these cinemas had been facing challenges due to the lacklustre performance of major Bollywood films. However, Gadar 2 attracted significant crowds to these theatres, with numerous videos of audiences dancing and cheering in single-screen venues going viral online.
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Sunny Deol captioned, “Pleasant surprise was the gesture by the single screen exhibitors (the backbone of the film industry) who came from their towns and cities and we spoke about our relationship that has lasted for so many decades between my films and single screens and the audiences. Really felt nostalgic at you all sharing stories from Ghayal, Ghatak, Border, Gadar, and Betaab days and craze Indian cinema has had specially in our towns and non metro cities.”
Following the viral post, fans flooded the comments section with well wishes for Deol. Additionally, Sunny's brother, Bobby Deol, expressed his affection by commenting with several heart emojis.
On the work front, Sunny Deol has a packed schedule ahead with upcoming projects Lahore 1947, Jaat, and Border 2.
Also Read : EXCLUSIVE: Vineet Kumar speaks on collaborating with Sunny Deol in Jaat, recalls buying latter’s movie tickets in black; says, “I feel very safe doing action scenes with him”
read moreHina Khan enjoys vacation in Maldives, shares inspirational selfie amid breast Cancer battle
Hina Khan's latest vacation update from the Maldives is full of inspiration. Amid her stage three breast cancer treatment, the actress has taken time off for a relaxing getaway. Enjoying delicious food and beachside moments, Hina is embracing a well-deserved break, sharing glimpses on social media.
Recently, she posted a sun-kissed selfie on Instagram, smiling peacefully as she enjoys the sunlight. Behind her, the vast blue ocean stretches out. In the photo, Hina is dressed in a pink outfit and wearing a woolen hat.
In her post, Hina captioned, “Jaise bhi hon din, Maine ab hai Jeena seekh liya..Live everyday like it’s your last. Dua #ScarredNotScared #UnshakableFaith.”
Hina Khan shared a series of photos on her Instagram story from her Maldives vacation. Despite her ongoing fight with stage three breast cancer, she remains dedicated to her work, continuing to walk for brands, participate in photoshoots, and endorse various labels.
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The Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai star has also been posting motivational content using the hashtag "Scarred not scared," inspiring and encouraging other women battling the disease.
For those unaware, Hina Khan was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer in June 2024. During her treatment, she has revealed suffering from mucositis, a common side effect of chemotherapy, and has experienced intense neuropathic pain that made it difficult for her to stand for extended periods.
In her professional journey, Hina gained fame playing Akshara in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai. She also participated in reality shows like Khatron Ke Khiladi 8 and Bigg Boss 11, where she finished as the first runner-up in both. Additionally, she portrayed the antagonist in Kasautii Zindagii Kay and appeared in Bigg Boss 14 and Khatron Ke Khiladi 13.
Also Read : Hina Khan showcases unbreakable spirit as she battles cancer; reveals how single eyelash becomes symbol of hope
read moreEXCLUSIVE: Himanshu Malik’s next directorial venture is called Parrot; reveals that his role in Ulajh was majorly chopped off: “My character facilitated Dawood Ibrahim’s escape from India but it was cut…”
Earlier this year, the espionage thriller Ulajh was released in cinemas. It grabbed eyeballs due to its star cast, comprising Janhvi Kapoor, Gulshan Devaiah, Roshan Adil Hussain, Meiyang Chang, Rajesh Tailang and others. A name that stood out was that of Himanshu Malik, of Tum Bin (2001) and Khwahish (2003) fame. He played terrorist Yaseen Mirza and one of the opening scenes involves this character and his dramatic arrest. He's then seen in one more scene after which his character never appears again. It gave many viewers a feeling that his part was cut from the film.
Last month, Bollywood Hungama exclusively spoke to Himanshu Malik about the re-release of Tum Bin. Towards the end, when we asked about Ulajh, he admitted, “There were lots I shot which were removed. In fact, one integral part of the plot was cut! My character was the one who facilitated the escape of Dawood Ibrahim after the blast with the help of a police person. Hence, the police chief in India did not want him to come back to India; or else, my character might have revealed that I worked in tandem with him. That was the main game. But they just turned the plot.”
When asked if he was informed about his role being cut, Himanshu replied, “No. I learned about it when I saw the final cut. It’s okay. These things happen.”
In 2022, Himanshu Malik turned director with the slice-of-life film, Chitrakut (2022). After premiering on Jio Cinema in May 2023, it got a new lease of life. Starring Vibhore Mayank, Aurtira Ghosh, Naina Trivedi, Kiran Srinivas and Shruti Bapna, the film is a refreshing take on love and relationships and makes for a breezy watch. There are times when one anticipates that the film will become dark but it doesn’t. And that adds to its appeal.
We asked Himanshu Malik about his next directorial venture. He replied, “I am directing a film called Parrot. It goes on floors in March 2025. I am finalizing the cast right now. Besides, I am also acting in Baby Do Die Do, produced by Huma Qureshi. It also stars Huma along with Sikandar Kher and Chunky Panday.
Himanshu Malik now looks quite different from his Tum Bin and Khwahish days, especially after shaving his head. The actor signed off by saying that his new avatar is proving to be of an advantage, “I am getting a lot of offers from down South thanks to my new look.”
Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Himanshu Malik ECSTATIC about Tum Bin’s re-release: “I hope it collects Rs. 10 crores; it can, considering how Tumbbad has performed”; raises laughs as he reveals how he gets free meals from fans across the world thanks to the musical
read moreWhen Farhan Akhtar had trouble getting remake rights of Don: “I want to remake Don as I’d like to see it. Mera apna Don”
Farhan Akhtar’s Don, which turned 18 on October 20, was not easy to do. Farhan had to struggle to get the rights of the original. A certain procedure had to be followed in getting the remake rights. Farhan had to put in a public notice in the trade papers announcing his intentions to remake the film. The late producer Nariman Irani’s wife, Salma Irani, had to give her consent.
Recalled Farhan in a throwback interview, “I wanted to make Don with the title and the characters being called as per the original. I want to remake Don as I’d like to see it. Mera apna Don. Comparisons are bound to happen. That won’t deter me from making Don the way I want to. I don’t want either my Don or the other Don to look foolish. I feel more people will come to watch my Don just to compare it with the old one. For me, it’s exciting because everyone involved with my project is equally excited. Everyone on board is here for the love of Don.”
The original Don directed by Chandra Barot is Farhan’s favourite Amitabh Bachchan film. “It’s the one Amitabh Bachchan flick that has stayed with me since my childhood,” he said. “I think of all the cool films he did in the 70s, Don was the coolest. Of course, Deewaar and Sholay are superior films. But Don is cooler and funkier. I’d put Mr Bachchan’s character up there with Dostana in terms his sharp-witted and wry dialogues and attitude. My Don will be a re-interpretation of one of my favourite films. It will be much lighter to do than Lakshya. Shah Rukh is playing the double role of Don and Vijay. He’s absolutely the correct age for the part. And he also loved the movie. He’s extremely excited about playing Don. We’re both fans of the film. So, it would be great fun to recreate the magic.”
Also Read: Farhan Akhtar showers praises on Manvat Murders; calls actor Ashutosh Gowariker ‘a pleasure’ to watch
read moreDirector Rahul Dholakia reveals Shah Rukh Khan shot action scenes in Raees despite painful knee injury: “His knee would swell up”
Although Raees, starring Shah Rukh Khan, didn't meet commercial expectations, Shah Rukh gave his all to the project. In a recent interview, director Rahul Dholakia revealed that Shah Rukh was dealing with a troublesome knee injury while filming the action scenes. Rahul expressed admiration for Shah Rukh's determination, noting how he persisted through multiple takes despite the injury.
Talking to Mashable India, Rahul said, “Shah Rukh had a knee problem. His knee would swell up. And we had to do action. Shah Rukh had a big knee problem and it was extremely painful. I was like, ‘How will you do this?’ He said ‘Chinta mat kar yaar, main kar lunga’ and the way he would land his foot. When we did retakes, I would tell the action director ‘let it be’, but Shah Rukh would say, ‘Don’t worry, I will do it yaar’.” Rahul stated that Shah Rukh could have easily postponed the shoot, but did not.
Rahul said Shah Rukh is a highly secure actor who supports people around him. He stated, “Shah Rukh makes you feel very comfortable. He is not an insecure actor. He is not an insecure human being also and he is encouraging. He is on your side.”
He shared that he originally didn’t want any songs in the film, but both Shah Rukh Khan and producer Ritesh Sidhwani disagreed. “I never liked songs in my film. Doesn’t make sense. In Raees also, I wrote in the screenplay that there should not be a song here. Ritesh and Shah Rukh looked at each other and said ‘Matlab?’ I said they should not be here. They said, ‘Your film won’t last a day’. I said, ‘Why? What do songs have to do with movies?’ They said, ‘You are new to this commercial film experience’,” he recounted.
Raees also featured Mahira Khan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui.
Also Read : Kajol celebrates 29 years of DDLJ and Karwa Chauth with hilarious post: “Go to Maratha mandir and see the film. It’s 0 calories”
read moreKabir Khan, Imtiaz Ali, Rima Das, Onir’s My Melbourne all set for its India premiere at MAMI 2024; deets inside
Following its triumphant world premiere at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2024, My Melbourne, a unique anthology helmed by four of India's most celebrated filmmakers – Imtiaz Ali, Kabir Khan, Rima Das, and Onir – is set for its India premiere at the prestigious Mumbai Film Festival (MAMI) 2024. The film will premiere in the coveted "Gala Section" on 22nd October, with all four directors in attendance. My Melbourne has been produced by Mitu Bhowmick Lange , in partnership with VicScreen and Screen Australia.
My Melbourne brings together four distinct voices, each interpreting personal and universal stories of identity, belonging, and through the lens of people from varied background living in Australia. This unique cinematic project is the result of a collaborative initiative by IFFM and Film Victoria to encourage cross-cultural storytelling, where aspiring filmmakers from Melbourne teamed up with these renowned directors to create a collection of thought-provoking narratives. The shorts include 'Emma' by Rima Das, 'Jules' which is helmed by Imtiaz Ali, 'Nandini' by Onir and 'Setara' by Kabir Khan. The films are a reflective of varied themes of diversity including gender, race, sexuality and disability. The intent of the project was to be truly inclusive and share stories that are truly accessible to all.
Reflecting on the upcoming MAMI premiere, Imtiaz Ali, of his segment Jules, said, "It's an honor to present My Melbourne to Indian audiences at MAMI. The stories we’ve told are not just about the diaspora but about anyone who has ever felt a sense of displacement or longed to belong. 'Jules' is a deeply personal film for me, and I can’t wait for the audience in Mumbai to experience it."
Kabir Khan, who helmed Setara, shared, "Melbourne provided us with the perfect backdrop to explore the emotional complexities of our characters. It was an incredible experience working with new talent, and the enthusiasm of our Melbourne crew translated beautifully on screen. I am thrilled that My Melbourne will now have its India premiere at such an esteemed platform like MAMI. And I am deeply honored to showcase my film 'Setara'.
Rima Das, the visionary behind the segment Emma, added, "What makes My Melbourne special is the sincerity of the stories. Each segment is a heartfelt exploration of human connections, set against the cultural diversity of Melbourne. I look forward to showcasing my film 'Emma' at MAMI, where such narratives are deeply appreciated."
Onir, who directed Nandini, expressed his excitement, saying, "Nadini' is about breaking boundaries—emotional and physical—and telling human stories that resonate across geographies. It has been a beautiful collaboration with emerging filmmakers from Melbourne, and I am eager to see how Indian audiences connect with it at MAMI."
Producer of the film and owner of Mind Blowing Films, Mitu Bhowmick Lange, said, "We are absolutely thrilled with the overwhelming response to My Melbourne at IFFM. The collaboration between the Indian filmmakers and Melbourne's rising talents has resulted in an anthology that speaks to global audiences. We are excited to bring this film to MAMI, a festival that is so committed to diverse stories and robust inclusive audience engagement”.
The India premiere promises to be a star-studded event, celebrating not only the film but the unique partnership between the Indian and Australian film industries. My Melbourne will premiere in the Gala Section of MAMI 2024 on October 22, marking a significant milestone in this cross-continental cinematic journey.
Also Read: Kabir Khan and Imtiaz Ali share experience of working on “brand new” format as My Melbourne opens IFFM 2024: “It was incredible honor”
read moreAli Fazal and Richa Chadha rope in Jiu-Jitsu world champions to empower young girls for self-defence
In a unique way to spread empowerment, Richa and Ali reached out to NGO Mukkamaar, which teaches girls self-defense, and organized a Jiu-Jitsu workshop conducted by the world champions in Jiu-Jitsu, Andressa Citra, and Lucas Valente. MukkaMaar Girls, started by actor Ishita Sharma, is a respected NGO that has been teaching girls to assert their agency - whether through martial arts training or athletics.
Richa Chadha says, “Self-defense isn’t just about fighting back; it’s about building confidence, resilience, and awareness. And when we learned that Andressa would be interested, we put together this unique one-day workshop. We’re proud to be partnering with MukkaMaar Girls, an organization that has been empowering young girls through self-defense for years."
Ali Fazal added, "I have been training in Jiu Jitsu, and having the Mukkamaar children meet with Andressa, meant that they’d have such a solid role model, in terms of what they can become. Especially for the young girls to meet a world champ and learn from her one-on-one, even if it was for a few hours, is so inspiring and fantastic for them."
Ishita Sharma, founder and CEO of MukkaMaar said, "Andressa is absolutely inspiring and you can tell that she is a world champion in the way she moves, speaks, and coaches! Our fellows learned some killer moves and we can’t work with her again. Thanks to Richa and Ali for doing this and always having MukkaMaar’s back."
Ali Fazal and Richa Chadha have long been advocates for gender equality and social justice. They recently celebrated the birth of their daughter by gifting the media sweets and also by planting trees in their individual names in drought-affected areas, via the Nabhangan Foundation.
Also Read: Richa Chadha shares touching video to celebrate Ali Fazal’s 38th birthday: “I know how lucky I am”
read moreAnnu Kapoor shares thoughts on being featured in condom ad: “Sex and violence always attract human beings”
Veteran actor Annu Kapoor is once again in the spotlight, thanks to his latest commercial for sexual wellness brand Durex. The ad, which initially seems like a monologue about friendship, surprises viewers by promoting safe sex. This unexpected twist had many social media users initially believing it was an ad for Rajshree Pan Masala, as Kapoor had previously gone viral for a similar commercial. The contrast between the ad’s serious tone and its playful message led to an outpouring of hilarious memes across the internet.
The Viral Durex Ad: A Surprising Twist In an exclusive chat with News18 Showsha, Annu Kapoor expressed his gratitude for being part of the campaign and shared his thoughts on the reaction to the ad. "I appreciate the brand for getting me onboard, as they needed to convey an important message with seriousness. I'm happy with how the young audience has responded. They’ve taken it with wit and humour but without mocking it, which is exactly what the brand wanted to achieve," Kapoor said. Annu Kapoor on Striking a Chord with Younger Audiences Despite being 70 years old, Kapoor continues to resonate with younger generations. He attributes this connection to his down-to-earth approach, stating that he doesn’t try to give lectures or motivational speeches, but instead shares life experiences in a rational and humble way. “I’m nobody to give them motivational speeches or life lessons. But I openly talk about my experiences with all humility. People may choose not to follow or believe me, but anything related to sex and violence always attracts human beings,” he remarked.
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For Kapoor, the Durex ad clicked because it presented the message in a way that felt like a grandparent advising younger generations. “This old man is telling youngsters to take precautions and be careful. Some of them may be of the age of my grandchildren. I’m giving them the right direction as a grandparent, in an entertaining way. I urge them to take protection during sex," he added. Kapoor's Thoughts on Sex and Non-Judgment Kapoor also drew parallels between his Durex ad and his role in Vicky Donor, where he played a fertility expert running a sperm bank. He spoke about the need to approach discussions about sex with respect and seriousness, without judgment. "Sex is one of the most sacred and important physical aspects of human life. And it cannot be treated as a topic of stand-up comedy. We’re all a product of our parents’ sexual encounters. Sex is a divine gift from God, and we cannot take it lightly or mockingly," Kapoor explained.
In conclusion, Kapoor reiterated the importance of safe sex and expressed his pride in being part of a campaign that addressed such an important topic. "Despite being laced with humour, these are subjects to be taken very seriously," he said.
Also Read: Annu Kapoor apologizes to Kangana Ranaut over his remark during Hamare Baarah press conference: “Not knowing a person is not a crime”
read moreNeetu Kapoor opens up on returning to work after Rishi Kapoor’s death: “I used to shake before going”
Neetu Kapoor and the late Rishi Kapoor’s daughter, Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, has joined the third season of Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives. In the show, she receives support from her brother Ranbir Kapoor and mother Neetu, with the two also discussing how they coped with Rishi's passing.
In one episode, Neetu shared that she was hesitant to return to work after Rishi's death in 2020 due to fear of online trolling. However, her children, Ranbir and Riddhima, encouraged her to take the step, and she now feels happier for it.
Talking to Riddhima, she said, “After Papa (Rishi) went...I was not ready. You know how the trolls are. But you (Riddhima and Ranbir) pushed me. I did a show, I did ads. I used to shake before going.” However, Neetu also revealed that she took a break to focus on her well-being. “That's why I have taken a backseat this year. If I stayed home and didn't do anything, I'd go crazy. Today, I feel much better. I wasn't good even until last year.”
In the same episode, Riddhima stated, “I don't think we've healed (from Rishi’s death). We don't show it, and we are not vocal about it. But from inside, we're still hurting.” Riddhima told her mother, Neetu, that she and Ranbir were both proud of her for returning to work after their father died.
After marrying Rishi Kapoor and having her children—Riddhima in 1980 and Ranbir in 1982—Neetu Kapoor took a break from films following the 1983 movie Jaane Jaan. Apart from a few cameos, she returned to the screen in 2022 with JugJugg Jeeyo and will next appear in Letters to Mr Khanna.
Originally titled Fabulous Lives of Bollywood Wives in its first two seasons (2020 and 2022), the show now features Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, Shalini Passi, and Kalyani Saha Chawla alongside Neelam Kothari, Maheep Kapoor, Bhavna Pandey, and Seema Sajdeh in its third season, streaming now on Netflix.
Also Read : BREAKING: Ranbir Kapoor has a SURPRISE cameo in Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives: “Riddhima is a muphat; going to mess it up’: Riddhima Kapoor Sahni playfully calls him “a dog” and Neetu says, “He needs a slap”
read moreKartik Aaryan surprises fans as he attends Grammy award-winning Alan Walker's show in Mumbai to promote Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3
After wrapping a 3-day city tour for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 title track, Kartik Aaryan took everyone by surprise last evening by taking center stage at Alan Walker's concert in Mumbai. The actor, who is currently garnering a lot of attention and praise for his energetic dance performance in the Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 title track used this opportunity to generate excitement for the upcoming horror-comedy, which is set to have a Diwali release.
Kartik took to Instagram to share a video from the concert, where he can be seen enjoying the electric atmosphere and dancing to the beats of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 title track. The crowd went frenzy as soon as Kartik stepped on the stage. Clad in a casual yet stylish outfit, the actor looked every bit the star as he danced to the Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 chartbuster. The video posted on Kartik’s Instagram handle quickly went viral, with the caption that read, “Rooh Baba x Alan Walker.”
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With Kartik Aaryan reprising the role of Rooh Baba from the 2022 blockbuster Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, he will be seen alongside Tripti Dimri, the OG Manjulika, Vidya Balan and Madhuri Dixit! Directed by Anees Bazmee and initiated by Bhushan Kumar, this much-anticipated release is set to carry forward the legacy of Bollywood’s favorite horror-comedy franchise. Get ready for a Diwali filled with spooky fun and laughter! Stay tuned for more thrilling updates! Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 gears up for a grand release this Diwali on November 1, 2024.
Also Read: Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3: Honey Singh grooves to Kartik Aaryan starrer title track, watch
read moreKarwa Chauth 2024: From Priyanka Chopra giving "filmy" vibes to Katrina Kaif seeking blessing from MIL, here's how actors celebrated the occasion!
Karwa Chauth, one of the most significant festivals for married women in India, was celebrated with great enthusiasm across Bollywood this year. Several Bollywood celebrities marked the occasion by sharing glimpses of their festivities, decked up in traditional outfits, and performing rituals with their partners. Here's a roundup of Bollywood stars who celebrated Karwa Chauth in 2024.
"Filmy" Priyanka Chopra celebrates festivities with Nick Jonas
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Katrina Kaif poses with Vicky Kaushal and family!
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Kriti Kharbanda looks regal on her first Karwa Chauth
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Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal's banter on fasting is pure couple goals!
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Raghav Chadha and Parineeti Chopra perform rituals
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Karwa Chauth 2024 featuring Bollywood wives and their fabulous lives!
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Raveena Tandon's Karwa Chauth pics are a sight to behold!
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Bipasha Basu pens heartwarming note for Karan Singh Grover
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Shilpa Shetty joins ladies to perform Karwa Chauth rituals
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This year’s Karwa Chauth was a beautiful blend of tradition and love in Bollywood. From first-time celebrants like Sonakshi Sinha and Rakul Preet Singh to seasoned couples like Shilpa Shetty and Raveena Tandon, the festival was marked with joy, love, and festive cheer across the industry.
Also Read: Rakul Preet Singh shares heartfelt Karwa Chauth moments with Jackky Bhagnani: “My sun, moon, universe, my everything”
read moreRakul Preet Singh shares heartfelt Karwa Chauth moments with Jackky Bhagnani: “My sun, moon, universe, my everything”
Rakul Preet Singh, who married Jackky Bhagnani earlier this year, marked her first Karwa Chauth on Sunday. Despite being on bed rest due to a recent injury, the actress took to Instagram to share glimpses of her celebration. Rakul looked radiant as she embraced the festive spirit from the comfort of her home.
Rakul Preet's First Karwa Chauth Look Rakul shared heartwarming photos on her Instagram stories, giving fans a peek into her intimate Karwa Chauth celebration. Dressed in a stunning red outfit, the actress completed her festive look with sindoor, leaving her hair open. In the pictures, Rakul can be seen sharing warm, cosy moments with her husband, Jackky Bhagnani, who twinned with her in a red kurta featuring floral prints. Despite being on bed rest, Rakul’s joy and festive spirit shone through.
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Earlier in the day, Rakul shared a light-hearted post, writing, “Bed rest wala first Karwa Chauth.” This was a reference to her ongoing recovery from a back injury, which she recently spoke about in a message to her fans. Rakul Preet's Health Update Rakul had shared an update on her health earlier this month, revealing that she had suffered a back spasm while performing an 80 kg deadlift during her workout routine. In a candid video message, she reassured her fans that she would “bounce back stronger.”
"Hi, my lovely people. Well, here is a little health update. I did something very stupid. I did not listen to my body. I had a spasm, kept pushing it, and it turned into a major injury. I have been on the bed for the last six days. I think it will take another week or so for me to fully recover. I really hope I recover faster than that because it is not easy for me to give in and rest," Rakul said in her video.
Despite the setback, Rakul's positive energy and determination have been evident throughout her recovery process. Her fans are eagerly awaiting her full recovery so she can get back to her routine.
Also Read: Rakul Preet Singh celebrates her first Karwa Chauth post-wedding while on bed rest!
read moreRakul Preet Singh celebrates her first Karwa Chauth post-wedding while on bed rest!
Rakul Preet Singh celebrates her first Karwa Chauth post-wedding with Jackky Bhagnani despite being on bed rest. Her distinct charm has consistently made her presence felt, and this is all due to her unwavering dedication to her work.
The vibrant festive season has arrived, and Bollywood celebrities are enthusiastically preparing to celebrate. Today marks the enchanting festival of Karwa Chauth, a time when devoted wives fast for the long and prosperous lives of their husbands, and the stars of Bollywood are no exception.
Rakul Preet Singh, who recently tied the knot with the charming actor-producer Jackky Bhagnani, is eagerly embracing the festivities of Karvachauth. Despite nursing an injury, the resilient actress is determined to partake in the celebrations along with her husband, as both Rakul and Jackky have committed to observing the fast together.
Rakul has shared glimpses of their joyful celebrations on social media, allowing her fans to partake in the festivities. This year, the celebrations are even more special, as today also marks the birthday of Rakul’s beloved mother-in-law, adding an extra layer of joy and excitement to the occasion. Let the festivities commence!
Given the success of De De Pyar De, the first installment of the franchise, De De Pyar De 2 is one of her significant commitments. Following De De Pyaar De 2, she will be seen in Mere Husband Ki Biwi. Additionally, Rakul is gearing up for Ameeri, which is expected to be a gripping drama, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Also Read: Rakul Preet Singh drops health update as she recovers from a major injury; says, “I did something stupid”
read moreSonakshi Sinha wears Rs 13.6 lakh mangalsutra as she marks first Karwa Chauth in style!
Sonakshi Sinha, who tied the knot with actor Zaheer Iqbal in June this year, celebrated her first Karwa Chauth on Sunday with style and elegance. The actress shared glimpses of the special occasion on Instagram, where she flaunted a luxurious mangalsutra worth Rs 13.6 lakh, along with a heartfelt message for her husband.
Sonakshi’s Stunning Karwa Chauth Look On the auspicious day of Karwa Chauth, Sonakshi Sinha donned a beautiful red saree paired with minimal makeup and traditional accessories. Her look was completed by a sleek rose gold BVLGARI Mangalsutra Sautoir Necklace, which featured diamond-encrusted inlays and beads.
Sharing the pictures of her outfit and the stunning piece of jewelry, Sonakshi wrote on Instagram, "Praying for your lambi umar, today and every day. Happy Karwa Chauth Mr Husband Zaheer Iqbal. Let this eternal symbol of love—my BVLGARI Mangalsutra Sautoir Necklace—be an enduring reminder of our commitment."
Sonakshi kept her makeup simple yet elegant, opting for black eyeliner, contoured cheeks, and a nude lipstick shade that complemented her red saree. She added a red bindi and sindoor, in keeping with the traditions of Karwa Chauth.
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The BVLGARI Mangalsutra that Sonakshi wore is valued at Rs 13.6 lakh and is crafted from 18 kt rose gold, with onyx inserts, beads, and pavé diamonds. According to the Bvlgari website, the exquisite piece is designed to represent both elegance and commitment, making it the perfect accessory for the actress's first Karwa Chauth. The mangalsutra served as a symbol of Sonakshi and Zaheer’s love and their new journey as a married couple. Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal’s Love Story Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal’s relationship dates back to seven years ago when they first met at a party hosted by Salman Khan. The couple kept their relationship private until they got married on June 23, 2024, at Sonakshi’s Mumbai residence. Their intimate wedding ceremony was followed by a grand reception in Bandra, Mumbai. Interestingly, both Sonakshi and Zaheer began their Bollywood careers with Salman Khan—Sonakshi made her debut in Dabangg in 2010, while Zaheer debuted in Notebook (2019).
On the work front, Sonakshi Sinha was last seen in the horror-comedy Kakuda, which also starred Riteish Deshmukh and Saqib Saleem. Directed by Aditya Sarpotdar, the film was produced by Ronnie Screwvala under RSVP Movies. Fans are now eagerly awaiting her next project, Nikita Roy and The Book of Darkness.
Also Read: Bollywood Hungama India Entertainment Awards 2024: Sonakshi Sinha calls OTT “game-changer” as she bags Best Actor Female award for her performance in Heeramandi; says, “Exciting to be part of this digital revolution”
read moreBhool Bhulaiyaa 3: Honey Singh grooves to Kartik Aaryan starrer title track, watch
The title track of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 has the nation grooving. Having emerged as the party anthem of the year, the title track marks the biggest music collaboration featuring global music icon Pitbull—known as Mr. Worldwide—along with global Punjabi sensation Diljit Dosanjh and heartthrob Kartik Aaryan. While the title track has been receiving tremendous love and is trending on Number 1 on YouTube Music is garnering love from all corners, Yo Yo Honey Singh was also recently seen caught up in its fever.
Yo Yo Honey Singh took to his social media and shared a video of himself grooving to the title track of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 with full swag. He also wrote the caption, “Hare Raam Hare Raam! bhool bhulaiya 3 coming guys @kartikaaryan @tseries.official @tseriesfilms @diljitdosanjh @pitbull.”
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With Kartik Aaryan reprising the role of Rooh Baba from superhit Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, he will be seen with Tripti Dimri, the OG Manjulika, Vidya Balan and her partner in crime, Madhuri Dixit! Directed by Anees Bazmee and initiated by Bhushan Kumar, this much-anticipated release is set to carry forward the legacy of Bollywood’s favorite horror-comedy franchise.
Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 gears up for a grand release this Diwali on November 1, 2024.
Also Read: Kartik Aaryan drops glimpse of his one-shot dance sequence on Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 title track
read moreSalman Khan ADMITS he didn't want to shoot for Bigg Boss 18 amid Lawrence Bishnoi threats: “I honestly don't feel like meeting anyone right now”
Bollywood actor Salman Khan, who is currently under heavy security due to threats from gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, made a candid revelation during the latest episode of Bigg Boss 18. The actor admitted that he did not want to shoot for the popular reality show but fulfilled his commitment to the makers despite the threats to his life.
Salman Khan Opens Up About Fulfilling Professional Commitment During the Weekend Ka Vaar episode of Bigg Boss 18 on Saturday, Salman Khan addressed the housemates for their petty fights and lack of enthusiasm. He emphasized the importance of not letting personal challenges interfere with professional commitments.
While offering his advice to the contestants, the actor shared his own struggles, stating: "Kasam khuda ki yaar, what all I am going through in my life... nahin aana tha mujhe yahan. But this is a commitment, hence I've come here. This is my work, and I have come here to do that work. I honestly don't feel like meeting anyone right now, but I have to do this because I have committed to someone." Heightened Security for Salman Khan Salman Khan has been operating under intense security measures following the murder of his close friend, NCP MLA Baba Siddique, by Lawrence Bishnoi's gang. Reports indicate that over 60 security personnel are present on the sets of Bigg Boss 18 during the weekend episodes to ensure Salman's safety. Additional precautions include mandatory Aadhaar identification for anyone entering the set, and no one is allowed to leave midway.
The Mumbai Police has also advised the actor to avoid outdoor shoots due to the heightened threat. Bishnoi's gang members have reportedly issued a final warning to Salman, demanding an apology for the blackbuck hunting incident or face severe consequences.
Also Read: Salman Khan bolsters security amid rising threats; buys bulletproof car worth Rs. 2 crores from Dubai: Report
read moreSamantha Ruth Prabhu supports Kangana Ranaut's cryptic message on women’s power: “Caged people believe that…”
Kangana Ranaut recently shared a cryptic note about witches, delving into deeper symbolism around women’s intuition, free spirit, and resilience. The note resonated with many, including actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu, who showed her support by sharing it on her Instagram stories.
Kangana Ranaut's Reflection on Witches and Women’s Power It all began when a social media user posted on X (formerly Twitter), “Don’t be afraid of witches; be afraid of the ones who burned them.” Kangana Ranaut, intrigued by the post, responded with a powerful reflection: “Witches are women who are connected to their higher self; their intuition, infectious free spirit, indomitable willpower, and uncontrollable urge to break all boundaries make them mysterious, frightening, and threatening to those who are caged and cursed.”
Kangana continued, touching on the theme of jealousy and self-liberation: “Caged people believe that gifted people have some evil powers and they must be burnt to ashes; misery exists in so many forms and jealousy is the most miserable of them all. You can choose to be jealous or be inspired, make a smart choice. Those who choose to be inspired are the chosen ones, break the cage and break free.” Samantha Ruth Prabhu Shows Her Support Soon after Kangana’s post gained attention, Samantha Ruth Prabhu, who has previously shared her admiration for Kangana’s strong opinions, reposted a screenshot of the tweet on her Instagram stories. Samantha simply captioned it “Word,” indicating her agreement with Kangana’s sentiments.
On the professional front, both actresses are gearing up for major releases. Kangana Ranaut is set to return as a director with her upcoming film Emergency. While the film’s release, initially scheduled for September 6, faced delays due to Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) issues, Kangana has confirmed that the film is now certified and will have a new release date announced soon. Emergency also stars Anupam Kher, Shreyas Talpade, Mahima Chaudhry, and Milind Soman.
Meanwhile, Samantha Ruth Prabhu is preparing for her next venture, the highly anticipated spy-action series Citadel: Honey Bunny, which is a spin-off of the American TV series Citadel on Amazon Prime Video. Directed by Raj & DK, the series is set to premiere on November 7, 2024.
Also Read: Samantha Ruth Prabhu calls Alia Bhatt a “tigress”, lauds Vedang Raina as she reviews Jigra: “You had me gasping”
read moreKajol celebrates 29 years of DDLJ and Karwa Chauth with hilarious post: “Go to Maratha mandir and see the film. It’s 0 calories”
As Bollywood gears up for the festive celebration of Karwa Chauth, Kajol took a moment to share a delightful throwback on Instagram. The actress posted a nostalgic still from her iconic 1995 film Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ) alongside Shah Rukh Khan, paying tribute to the movie’s famous Karwa Chauth scene that has remained etched in the hearts of fans for decades.
Kajol’s Karwa Chauth Tribute In her lighthearted Instagram post, Kajol reminded fans of the original cinematic portrayal of Karwa Chauth, saying, "29 years to the OG of Karva Chauth... wishing everyone a very hungry and successful Karva Chauth .. maybe go to Maratha Mandir and see the film." The reference to Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge was not lost on fans, as the film is still celebrated for its beautiful depiction of love and tradition.
For those unfamiliar, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, which was released on October 20, 1995, features an emotional Karwa Chauth scene. Kajol's character, Simran, is engaged to be married to Kuljeet, played by Parmeet Sethi. However, instead of breaking her fast with him, she cleverly finds a way to break it with Raj, played by Shah Rukh Khan, the true love of her life. This iconic scene is one of the most memorable in Bollywood's portrayal of Karwa Chauth.
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While fans continue to cherish her old films, Kajol remains busy with new projects. She will soon be seen in the murder mystery Do Patti, which is set to stream on Netflix from October 25. The film is produced by Kriti Sanon's Blue Butterfly Films in collaboration with Kanika Dhillon's Kathha Pictures.
Also Read: Kiara Advani shares sweet Karwa Chauth post featuring Sidharth Malhotra’s initials
read moreKiara Advani shares sweet Karwa Chauth post featuring Sidharth Malhotra’s initials
On the occasion of her second Karwa Chauth with husband Sidharth Malhotra, actress Kiara Advani was recently spotted at Mumbai airport, making her way to Delhi. The 33-year-old actress traveled to celebrate the festival with Sidharth and his family. This marks an important event for the couple, who tied the knot in February 2023.
Kiara Shares a Special Post for Karwa Chauth A day after her public appearance, Kiara took to her social media handle to share a personal moment with her followers. In a photo posted on her Instagram stories, Kiara's palm is seen adorned with the initials "SM" — a loving nod to her husband, Sidharth Malhotra.
Along with the initials, a heart symbol was drawn, showing the couple’s affection for each other. Kiara tagged Sidharth in the post, captioning it "Happy Karwa Chauth," followed by heart emojis.
On the work front, Kiara Advani is gearing up for several major projects. She has already begun shooting for War 2 in Italy, alongside co-stars Hrithik Roshan and Jr. NTR. The highly anticipated sequel will be directed by Ayan Mukerji. She will also headline the third instalment of popular franchise Don.
Additionally, Kiara has another big release lined up: Game Changer, where she stars opposite Ram Charan. The film has generated buzz and is expected to hit screens soon.
On the other hand, speaking of Sid, he recently celebrated 12th anniversary of his debut film, Student Of The Year.
Also Read: Accidental or slip-up? Kartik Aaryan mentioning Kiara Advani while discussing Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’s two endings sparks speculations
read moreWhen Nana Patekar had a ‘Jaa Simran jaa’ moment in a film also starring Shah Rukh Khan
Today marks the 29th release anniversary of filmmaker Aditya Chopra’s classic Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. Starring Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Amrish Puri and Farida Jalal in pivotal roles, the film is not only still remembered but it also continues to run in Mumbai’s iconic single screen theatre Maratha Mandir since almost three decades.
DDLJ, as the film is fondly referred to, is known for a number of heartwarming moments. Out of these, one that is the most famous is the line “Jaa Simran jaa” uttered by Amrish Puri. This paves way for one of the happiest endings one would find in a love story. Not surprisingly, the line has become synonymous with the movie.
Years later in 2002, Nana Patekar also had a similar “Jaa Simran jaa” moment in a film. It happened in director Krishna Vamsi’s Shakti: The Power, which mainly starred Karisma Kapoor, Sanjay Kapoor, Nana Patekar and Deepti Naval. The movie is about Shekhar (Sanjay Kapoor) and Nandini (Karisma Kapoor), who are based in Canada. They fall in love, get married and give birth to a son named Raja (Jai Gidwani). One day, Shekhar gets to know that his family is going through some trouble in Bihar, India. He visits his hometown with Nandini and Raja to solve the matter.
Once they reach there, Nandini is shocked to see the violence and lawlessness practiced in the land, especially by Shekhar’s father and her father-in-law Narasimha (Nana Patekar). She wants to leave the place soon but is persuaded by her mother-in-law (Deepti Naval) to stay for a few more days to celebrate Shekhar’s birthday. However, Shekhar is killed by Narasimha’s rival Maharaj (Anupam Shyam).
Shattered by the death of her husband, Nandini wants to leave the place soon with Raja but Narasimha stops her. He now wants his grandson Raja to be raised like one of them, so that he can avenge the death of his father. Nandini, somehow, still manages to run away from the place, gets into a train and somehow reaches the airport to leave India. However, Narasimha and his men reach the airport and trace Nandini, hell bent to stop her.
Narasimha tries snatching his grandson from Nandini. However, he suddenly gets moved by Nandini’s love for her child and determination and suddenly lets her go saying “Jaa, jana chahti ho na? jaa”, much to the relief as well as shock of Nandini. She goes away to catch the flight in an emotional state.
This moment instantly makes us recall the “Jaa Simran jaa” scene from Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. In the 1995 film, Kajol is set to take a train while here Karisma is set to catch a flight. Interestingly, Shakti also starred Shah Rukh Khan in an extended cameo. His character Jai Singh helps Karisma get into the train but gets killed in the process. Much before that, he gets to shake a leg with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in the hit song ‘Ishq Kameena’.
Also Read: 30 years of Krantiveer: “Nana Patekar performed the climatic speech when he was admitted with a heart condition,” reveals Mehul Kumar
read moreBollywood STUNNED as Bihar offers HIGHEST film subsidy of up to Rs. 4 cr; Manoj Bajpayee, Pankaj Tripathi, Sanjay Mishra applaud the GAME-CHANGING move
The Bihar Film Conclave 2024 was held on October 18 at Taj City Centre, Patna and has become a talking point in the industry. It was graced by several industry personalities, especially those who have their roots in Bihar. Bihar deputy chief minister Vijay Kumar Sinha, Development commissioner of Bihar, Chaitanya Prasad, secretary of art and culture department, Dayanidhan Pandey, and general manager of Bihar State Film Development & Finance Corporation, Rahul Kumar, also graced their presence.
Bollywood Hungama exclusively spoke with Rahul Kumar to understand the salient features of this policy. He told us, “It is called the Bihar Film Promotion Policy and it was introduced in July. In the first week of October, we approved the operational guidelines.”
He added that, “We have started the single window clearance system for shoot permissions, subsidy, NOCs, etc.” He further said, “We are giving the highest subsidy in the country. For feature films, we have three slabs for subsidy. If any producer is making his or her first film, depending on the number of shooting days, we’ll give a subsidy between Rs. 2 to 4 crores. Along with this subsidy amount, if a film is promoting Bihar in a positive way, we’ll provide an additional Rs. 50 lakhs.”
Rahul Kumar also stated, “If the top 3 artists of the film are from Bihar, then additional Rs. 25 lakhs will be given while an additional Rs. 10 lakhs will be given if 5 tier-2 artists are cast in the film. This is our way of incentivizing filmmakers to cast our talented local actors. There are also incentives if films are made in Bhojpuri, Maithili and Magahi, which are widely spoken in the state.”
The facilities are not just limited to the theatrical medium. Rahul Kumar said, “For web series, we are giving subsidy up to Rs. 3 crores. The only conditions are that Bihar should not be portrayed in a negative light and that the content should not be only for adults. It should have a universal appeal. As for TV shows, we are granting subsidy up to Rs. 1 crore and Rs. 25 lakhs additional if Bihar artists are cast. For documentaries, Rs. 30 lakhs will be provided and if it’s an international production, we are giving grants up to Rs. 40 lakhs.”
If you think that’s all, you are mistaken. Rahul Kumar continued, “If any studio wants to set up a lab or any post-production or animation facility in Bihar, we’ll reimburse up to Rs. 1.25 crore. If any student from Bihar is enrolled into the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), National School of Drama (NSD) or Satyajit Ray Film & Television Institute (SRFTI), we’ll cover their tuition fees completely. We have already started getting applications for it.”
The policy also takes into account the plight of the exhibition sector. Rahul Kumar explained, “For old, shut down single screens, we’ll help with its renovation. The guidelines for it will be introduced very soon.”
Talking about the Bihar Film Conclave 2024, he said, “We invited IMPPA (Indian Motion Picture Producers' Association) chairman Abhay Sinha. He is from Bihar. Manoj Tiwari, Ravi Kishan, Akhilendra Mishra, Pankaj Jha, Aseem Bajaj, Vineet Kumar, and others were also present. We told them about these incentives and assured them of full support if they came to Bihar to shoot. We told them that we’d also give them the list of beautiful shooting locations, accommodation options, transport, etc.”
The three stalwarts from Bihar – Manoj Bajpayee, Pankaj Tripathi and Sanjay Mishra – couldn’t make it but they sent their good wishes through a video message, which was played at the event. In the video, Manoj Bajpayee said, “I hope all filmmakers make good use of the facilities provided as it will play a huge role in boosting the film scene in Bihar.”
Pankaj Tripathi explained, “I am hopeful that thanks to this initiative, a lot of untold stories from Bihar and beautiful locations of the state will be depicted on screen. Ek film friendly mahaul bhi banega.” He added, “Bihar ki masaumiyat abhi cinema ne dekhi hi kahan hai!”
Lastly, Sanjay Mishra said, “Bihar ka cinema badhega toh Bihar badhega!”
Also Read: Manoj Bajpayee praises Suraj Pe Mangal Bhari co-star Diljit Dosanjh; says, “He is a gem of a person”
read moreMAMI Masterclass: Shabana Azmi reveals mainstream cinema’s obsession with ‘gandi si kangi’; adds “If I asked Manmohan Desai, 'Iska kya matlab hai?', he would reply, ‘Iska kuch matlab nahin hai. Yeh Satyajit Ray ki picture nahin hai’”
Shabana Azmi had an interesting conversation with Vidya Balan at a masterclass held at the MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2024 on October 19. Shabana Azmi, who completes 50 years as an actor this year, spoke about her fascinating journey. What is remarkable is that Shabana Azmi did work in art films but at the same time, she was a part of mainstream films like Manmohan Desai’s Parvarish (1977), Amar Akbar Anthony (1977), Prakash Mehra's Jwalamukhi (1980), etc.
Vidya Balan asked her about her experience of working in such films. Shabana Azmi replied, “I used to have a ball. I surrender to the director because there's no point. If I would ask Manmohan Desai, 'Iska kya matlab hai?', he would reply, 'Iska kuch matlab nahin hai. Main bol raha hoon yeh hai iska matlab. Yeh Satyajit Ray ki picture nahin hai'! When a director is so convinced about it, you are just happy to surrender.”
She added, “On the other hand, in arthouse cinema, everything is so realistic. Hindi cinema, meanwhile, used to operate in an alternate reality. It didn't matter that if you were a policeman, your house would look no different from that of a rich businessman. It didn't matter! Chahe aap businessman hai ya policeman, aapke dressing table pe ek Pond's ka powder hoga, ek cold cream hoga aur ek gandi si kangi hogi! I used to go crazy (on seeing these items). They used to use a white, maili si chaadar jo aapko odhni hoti thi.”
She continued, “It was left to art cinema to go into the details.”
While talking about Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023), Shabana Azmi revealed, “I really enjoyed working on Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. In the very first scene, I had an open hair. I was given this ridiculously long wig. My hair was on one side and I was wearing a silk saree while making machi kadhi. I asked Karan Johar, ‘Which Bengali woman wears a silk saree and opens her hair and all that?’! He replied, ‘In Karan Johar’s film, she does. Don’t ask any questions. Just go ahead’ (laughs)!”
Also Read: MAMI Masterclass: Shabana Azmi revealed that 21-year-old Farhan Akhtar helped change the ending of Fire: “The new end saved the film”
read moreAjay Devgn and Rohit Shetty attend special fan screening of Singham, reveal how cop universe idea came about during Simmba: “There was a risk”
Ajay Devgn and Rohit Shetty attended a special screening of Singham (2011) yesterday, where they interacted with fans and shared exciting updates about Singham Again. The blockbuster duo discussed how the Singham Again cast came together for this highly anticipated family entertainer.
During the interaction, Rohit was asked about the cop universe. He said, “When we were doing Simmba, I came to him (Ajay Devgn) and said let's merge into it and make a universe in our country also. Let's see. There was a risk. If Simmba would have not worked, Singham was coming in that film, plus Sooryavanshi as well. So again, it was like a risk we took. Then for the Hindi audience, they will understand this thing that Singham kaise aa gaya isme? Achha ab ye kaun hai? (How did he arrive here and who is he?). It worked for us and then after that, we all started making universe sort of thing in every genre.”
Talking about the entry scene in Simmba, Ajay said, “Ya, of course, I remember we started shooting it, when the Scorpio (car) turns in and I get off, that again becomes so significant that it had to be repeated and it became a part of Singham's character.”
The film features Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, Ranveer Singh, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Arjun Kapoor, Jackie Shroff, Deepika Padukone, and Tiger Shroff.
The film will release on November 1, 2024.
Also Read: Ajay Devgn and Rohit Shetty attend special fan sreening of Singham, reveal how ‘Ata Majhi Satakli’ dialogue came about: “It became an iconic line”
read moreAjay Devgn and Rohit Shetty attend special fan screening of Singham, reveal how ‘Ata Majhi Satakli’ dialogue came about: “It became an iconic line”
Ajay Devgn and Rohit Shetty attended a special screening of Singham (2011) yesterday, where they interacted with fans and shared exciting updates about Singham Again. The blockbuster duo revealed how the cult line ‘Ata Majhi Satakli’ became iconic and discussed how the Singham Again cast came together for this highly anticipated family entertainer.
During the interaction, Rohit was asked about the popular dialogue and how it became a sensation over the years. He said: “Genuinely, we had just written those characters - Singham and the villain Jaykant Shikre (played by Prakash Raj), in Maharashtrian. It became an iconic line! He just says that line once in the film, otherwise it is told by the villain. We never thought… for us it was just a line! Again a language which everybody says now! We never thought about it that way.”
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Ajay added, “In that moment it was just a line! There are many lines and nobody knows at that time what comes after. While doing it, that was just a line and then it became a cult line.”
The film features Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, Ranveer Singh, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Arjun Kapoor, Jackie Shroff, Deepika Padukone, and Tiger Shroff.
The film will release on November 1, 2024.
Also Read: Singham Again: Ajay Devgn and Ranveer Singh lead the ‘Jai Bajrangbali’ song from Rohit Shetty’s cop universe, watch
read moreMAMI Masterclass: Shabana Azmi revealed that 21-year-old Farhan Akhtar helped change the ending of Fire: “The new end saved the film”
Shabana Azmi had an interesting conversation with Vidya Balan at a masterclass held at the MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2024 on October 19. Shabana Azmi, who completes 50 years as an actor this year, spoke about her fascinating journey. As expected, she spoke about Fire (1996), in which she and Nandita Das played lesbians.
Shabana Azmi revealed, “I was working in the slums. I feared that my work in Fire will be used against me and would affect my work in the slums. I also felt that those women would find it difficult to work with me.”
She then said that Javed Akhtar motivated her to work in the film, despite the flak she was going to receive. She surprised the attendees by revealing that Zoya Akhtar and Farhan Akhtar were also supportive.
Shabana Azmi said, “Zoya was very young. She must have been 18 (she was 23). I happened to tell her that I have been offered Fire and that I have a problem. She asked, ‘Why?’. I told her the reason and she asked, ‘So?’. She also asked, ‘Do you like the script’? When I said ‘Yeah’, she replied, ‘Then what’s the big deal?’. It made me realize that there’s a generation of people who think completely differently.”
Shabana Azmi continued, “Farhan was even younger than Zoya (he was 21). I discussed the script with him and he liked it. But he also added that he didn’t like the ending. This is when I was supposed to die in the fire in the end. He remarked, ‘This would ruin the whole purpose of the film. It would mean that your character did something wrong. She must survive’. He was a chhota sa bachha at that time.”
Shabana Azmi added, “I told director Deepa Mehta about this feedback. She said, ‘Let me think about it’. I think (the new end) is what saved the film. That’s how my entire family came and supported me and the film!”
Also Read: MAMI Masterclass: Shabana Azmi feared people would walk out during ‘Abhi Na Jao’ scene in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani: “I told Karan Johar, ‘You are mad’…”
read moreMAMI Masterclass: Shabana Azmi feared people would walk out during ‘Abhi Na Jao’ scene in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani: “I told Karan Johar, ‘You are mad’…”
Shabana Azmi had an interesting conversation with Vidya Balan at a masterclass held at the MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2024 on October 19. Shabana Azmi, who completes 50 years as an actor this year, spoke about her fascinating journey. As expected, she spoke about her recent film, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023).
She said, “I really enjoyed working on Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. In the very first scene, I had an open hair. I was given this ridiculously long wig. My hair was on one side and I was wearing a silk saree while making machi kadhi. I asked Karan Johar, ‘Which Bengali woman wears a silk saree and opens her hair and all that?’! He replied, ‘In Karan Johar’s film, she does. Don’t ask any questions. Just go ahead’ (laughs)!”
Shabana Azmi continued, “I had a thought in my head that I’ll play her like Aparna Sen. Manish Malhotra, however, said, ‘No, no, you have to trust me’. I am really glad I did it because that’s what worked for the film. It was a completely different experience for me.”
Her most memorable scene in the film is when she kisses Dharmendra while they both also sing an old classic song. Shabana Azmi revealed, “When I was told about ‘Abhi Na Jao Chhod Kar’ scene, I told Karan, ‘You are mad. People are going to walk out and they are going to laugh’. But when I went to the theatres, I heard whistles and claps in that scene!”
Also Read: “When I heard Shabana Azmi is doing Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, I wondered what is she doing in it,” says Waheeda Rehman at MAMI opening ceremony
read moreEXCLUSIVE: Vineet Kumar speaks on collaborating with Sunny Deol in Jaat, recalls buying latter's movie tickets in black; says, "I feel very safe doing action scenes with him"
Vineet Kumar Singh, known for his performance in Mukkabaaz, is set to team up with actor Sunny Deol in an upcoming pan-India film. The film, which was tentatively titled SDGM, is now officially titled Jaat. The title was unveiled on the special occasion of Sunny Deol’s birthday.
Vineet Kumar Singh shared the poster on his social media, captioning it, “Introducing the man with a national permit for MASSIVE ACTION @iamsunnydeol in and as #JAAT #SDGM is #JAAT Happy Birthday Action Superstar MASS FEAST LOADING.” Sunny and Vineet's collaboration promises to be an exciting blend of talent and storytelling, catering to audiences across diverse regions.
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The film, produced by Mythri Movie Makers and People Media Factory, will mark Vineet's first project with Sunny Deol. The film is being touted as the "biggest action film of the country" and is directed by Gopichand Malineni. Previously, Singh expressed that he feels "truly blessed" and "excited" to be part of the action film.
Vineet also went on to share a personal story about Sunny Deol, saying, “Sunny sir is like an elder brother. My friend and I used to buy his movie tickets in black just to watch him on the big screen. I feel very safe doing action scenes with him—he makes us feel so comfortable on set. I’ve got a lot to learn in action from Sunny sir. We're also shooting on his birthday and will celebrate his birthday after pack up.” The film will also feature Randeep Hooda, Saiyami Kher, and Regina Cassandra in pivotal roles, and is set to release next year.
Currently, Singh is celebrating the success of Superboys of Malegaon, which received overwhelming praise at its TIFF 2024 premiere. He has also signed on for the political thriller Match Fixing, based on Kanwar Khatana's book The Game Behind Saffron Terror. The filmmakers unveiled a striking first look at Singh in the film, capturing the essence of the story. Match Fixing is set to hit theatres on November 15, featuring co-stars Anuja Sathe and Manoj Joshi. Additionally, he will appear in Rangeen.
Also Read: Vineet Kumar Singh, Anuja Sathe, and Manoj Joshi lead political thriller Match Fixing, set for November 15 release
read moreFabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives: Bhavana Pandey reveals that once on Karwa Chauth, she mistakenly saw Boney Kapoor instead of Chunky Panday through the ‘channi’
The fun show Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives dropped yesterday, October 18, on Netflix. This time, the OG Bollywood wives Maheep Kapoor, Neelam Kothari, Bhavana Pandey and Seema Sajdeh are joined by Delhi-based Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, Shalini Passi and Kalyani Saha Chawla. In the first episode, they bond in the lovely Fab Café located in Sunder Nursery, Delhi where they meet for breakfast and discuss their lives.
Riddhima Kapoor Sahni here invited the Mumbai ladies to celebrate Karwa Chauth. They accepted the invitation and Neelam Kothari told her, “It's lovely that you are inviting us but I am really going to miss being with Sunita this year. We have such an amazing time.” Sunita is Anil Kapoor’s wife and also the sister-in-law of Maheep Kapoor. A lovely picture of Maheep Kapoor, Neelam Kothari, Bhavana Pandey, Sunita Kapoor, Farah Khan, Shilpa Shetty and others celebrating the festival was flashed on the screen at this point.
The women also speak whether the men should also fast for their wives at Karwa Chauth. Seema Sajdeh commented, “Men are big babies actually. They love to be pampered.”
Seema then brought up a “hysterical” Karwa Chauth episode involving Bhavana Pandey. Bhavana said, “We were all women standing in a row, looking at the moon with our channis (strainer). All the men were in a row standing behind us. Chunky decides, at the last minute, to go and pee. He always does this!”
She continued, “I thought he was standing behind me. And I turned around and…” Maheep completed the sentence, “And he was Boney (Boney Kapoor)!”
Chunky Panday soon realized what happened. Bhavana Pandey revealed, “Chunky ran and he popped up. I was like, ‘Okay, back to the moon and back to Chunky!’”
Also Read: Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives: Saif Ali Khan reveals Taimur is not interested in being an actor: “He said, ‘Saying something in front of 50,000 people is a NIGHTMARE’”
read moreKartik Aaryan drops glimpse of his one-shot dance sequence on Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 title track
Kartik Aaryan continues to surprise audiences with his versatility, and this time, it's his dance move in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 that has everyone talking. The recently released Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 title track features Kartik executing a mesmerizing dance step that has since become a signature highlight. What makes it even more impressive is that this hook step of Kartik was shot in just one take!
The song, which can be aptly described as a “dancing monologue,” by Kartik has his electrifying energy with nuanced expressions, dancing to the iconic tune of Bhool Bhulaiyaa. Sharing the clip on his Instagram handle, Kartik wrote, “One Shot, Dancing Monologue.”
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Much like a spoken monologue, this unique performance sets the tone for the film, engaging the audience from the get-go. Kartik who has given one shot take is doing wonders on social media. The song has been drawing praise from fans and industry professionals alike.
With Kartik Aaryan reprising the role of Rooh Baba from the 2022 blockbuster Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, he will be seen alongside Tripti Dimri, the OG Manjulika, Vidya Balan and Madhuri Dixit! Directed by Anees Bazmee and initiated by Bhushan Kumar, this much-anticipated release is set to carry forward the legacy of Bollywood’s favorite horror-comedy franchise. Get ready for a Diwali filled with spooky fun and laughter! Stay tuned for more thrilling updates! Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 gears up for a grand release this Diwali on November 1, 2024.
Also Read: After Amitabh Bachchan, Kartik Aaryan’s Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 co-star Vidya Balan lauds his moves in title track: “I can’t dance like him”
read moreNeelam Kothari makes RARE comment on her divorce from Rishi Sethia, recalls losing her identity: “I was told to wear Indian clothes, give up non-veg”
The third season of Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives is back, and this time, the show dives deeper into the personal lives of its stars. One of the most emotional moments comes when actress and jewelry designer Neelam Kothari opened up about her divorce from Rishi Sethia, revealing the struggles she faced during that period. Neelam, who is now happily married to actor Samir Soni, broke down while recounting the challenges she faced in her first marriage.
Neelam Kothari on Her Daughter Discovering Her Divorce In a candid conversation with Ektaa R Kapoor, Neelam shared how her daughter, Ahana, discovered her mother’s past marriage by searching online. The moment left Neelam emotionally shattered. She recalled, “I came from work, and Ahana was with her friends. Normally, they’re jumping around, screaming, and shouting, but this time there was pin-drop silence. Ahana came to me and asked, ‘Mama, you never told me you were divorced.’ I just died. I was stumped; I had no words.”
Neelam further explained how her daughter found out: “Ahana said, ‘No, you're a celebrity, and my friends and I were Googling you. The first thing that came up was that you were divorced. You were married.’ The first thing that came to my mind was that this was not how I wanted my daughter to find out.” Neelam Kothari Reflects on the Struggles During Her First Marriage Opening up about the struggles she faced in her first marriage to Rishi Sethia, Neelam revealed the pressure to conform to certain cultural norms after moving to a new country. "I was told to wear Indian clothes, give up non-veg, and don’t drink. I was fine with everything, but changing my identity, that is something I was not okay with. I reached a point where I questioned myself, ‘How am I allowing this?’" Neelam also recalled how painful it was to deny her identity as an actress during that time. “I used to be in a supermarket or out for lunch, and someone would come up to me and ask, ‘Are you Neelam the actress?’ I had to say no.” The Decision to Leave Eventually, Neelam decided she could no longer sacrifice her identity for the sake of her marriage. Reflecting on that difficult decision, she said, “It was hard, but I wanted to make it work. Because for love, you do crazy things. I think it’s something no woman on this earth should ever have to deal with—losing your identity.”
The show is currently streaming on Netflix.
Also Read: Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives: Saif Ali Khan reveals Taimur is not interested in being an actor: “He said, ‘Saying something in front of 50,000 people is a NIGHTMARE’”
read moreSidhant Gupta's Wanderlust Diaries: 5 times the Jubilee actor inspired us to go backpacking
Actor Sidhant Gupta isn’t just a brilliant performer—he’s also a joyous globetrotter! Known for his standout roles in projects like Jubilee, Sidhant’s Instagram page is a total treat for wanderlust-filled souls. Whether he’s diving into exotic adventures or savoring peaceful getaways, his aesthetic travel posts take us straight to some of the most stunning corners of the globe.
From the serene to the scenic, Sidhant knows how to make travel look like pure magic. So, let’s hop on a virtual plane and explore his wanderlust diaries through 5 must-see Instagram posts that’ll have you dreaming of your next vacation.
Poland Diaries
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This one's a vibe! Sidhant shows off the picturesque streets of Poland with a sense of wander wrapped in charm.
Mountains & Everything
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Mountains, mist, and all things magical—Sidhant finds peace in the heights and leaves us wishing we could be there too.
Scenic Streets of Europe
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Roaming the charming European streets, Sidhant's snapshots make every corner look like a postcard.
Countryside of Norway
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The untouched countryside of Norway looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale—and Sidhant is living it.
Lush Greens of Bali
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Bali, but make it tranquil! Sidhant is all about soaking in the green vibes of this tropical paradise.
On the work front, Sidhant is gearing up to portray none other than Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru in Sony Liv’s upcoming web show Freedom at Midnight. Who knew wanderlust could look this good?
Also Read: 5 times Sidhant Gupta displayed perfect Instagram aesthetics
read moreFabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives: Saif Ali Khan reveals Taimur is not interested in being an actor: “He said, ‘Saying something in front of 50,000 people is a NIGHTMARE’”
The fun show Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives dropped yesterday, October 18, on Netflix. This time, the OG Bollywood wives Maheep Kapoor, Neelam Kothari, Bhavana Pandey and Seema Sajdeh are joined by Delhi-based Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, Shalini Passi and Kalyani Saha Chawla. The season began with a bang with the surprise cameo by Ranbir Kapoor. The last episode, meanwhile, saw Saif Ali Khan talking to the seven women about Mumbai vs Delhi, his family, his film career etc.
Maheep Kapoor quipped, “Saif, you should have had a girl (with Kareena Kapoor Khan). You make such beautiful babies. I told Bebo. She said, ‘It’s all packed up’!” Saif was surprised to hear that while all of them laughed.
Saif then talked about his daughter Sara Ali Khan, “Sara jokes that I’ve actually managed to produce one child every decade of my life, from 20 to 50!”
He also remarked, “With all our children, there’s a lot of interest in doing movies. It seems to be the only interest. None of them want to be character actors. They all want to be the number one movie star in India. That’s high pressure.”
Saif Ali Khan’s elder son with Kareena, Taimur, has a fan base thanks to his pap videos and cuteness. Saif surprised everyone by confessing that he doesn’t want to be an actor, “My son, Taimur, is 7. He said, ‘The idea of standing up in front of 50,000 people and saying something is just a nightmare’! He said that and he also said, ‘I absolutely don’t want to do it’.”
Maheep Kapoor added, “He’s a gorgeous child and has a very strong personality. He's very reactive to the paps. People are obsessed with him.”
Besides Sara Ali Khan and Taimur, Saif Ali Khan is also the father to two more sons – Ibrahim Ali Khan and Jehangir aka Jeh.
Also Read: Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives: Saif Ali Khan reveals how Aamir Khan DEMOTIVATED him during Parampara: “Aamir told me, ‘Yash Chopra has only worked with great actors. He’s not going to help you’”
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