‘Bring back crown’ India cheers as Nandini Gupta fast tracks to Top 40 of Miss World

If Gupta wins the pageant, she will be the seventh one from India to take the crown – Manushi Chillar was the last one to win in 2017.

Miss World contestant Nandini Gupta. Credit: Instagram/nandiniguptaa13

India is chanting ‘bring the crown back’, as Nandini Gupta is all set to take the stage as one of the 18 contestants who have ‘fast tracked’ their way into the Top 40 category at the 72nd Miss World contest on Saturday evening at Hitex Exhibition Centre in Hyderabad.

If Gupta wins the pageant, she will be the seventh one from India to take the crown – Manushi Chillar was the last one to win in 2017.

Gupta booked her spot at Top 40 by winning the sub event Miss World Top Model on May 24.

In an interview to PTI Videos, Gupta had said she came to know about the pageant after she watched ‘Devdas’ and started digging about Aishwaraya Rai.

“My mother was watching Devdas on DVD, I was mesmerised looking at Aishwarya’s beauty, and I asked my mother, ‘Who is she?’ She said, ‘She is Miss World’. I was like ‘How do you become that?’,” Gupta had told PTI, right after she won the Miss India crown.

But it is not going to be easy for this beauty queen from Rajasthan.

For instance, Thailand’s Suchata Chuangsri is a seasoned pageantry participant, too. She has already represented her country in Miss Universe 2024, finishing third runner-up.

With an ease, Chuangsri flipped her narrative a couple of days ago on her Instagram page, winning herself a spot at Top 40.

“This wasn’t just about representing Thailand. It’s about the many women who haven’t been heard — and using my voice to stand for something that really matters,” she wrote, making it clear that she might have an edge at the crucial question-answer round that often makes or breaks a candidate.

Other Multimedia Media Challenge winners, which ranks social media presence are Cameroon’s Issie Princesse, Dominican Republican’s Mayra Delgado and Montenegro’s Andrea Nikolic.

Namibia is rooting as hard as India for their representative, Selma Kamanya, too. On their official Instagram page of Miss World Namibia, Namibians are encouraged to log on and watch the event live, showing support to their beauty.

The only time anyone from their country came any close to a Miss World crown was when Michelle McLean was placed as the Top 5 finalist in 1991.

Incidentally, Kamanya, too, reached the grand finale by clinching the Miss World Top Model. Ireland’s Jasmine Gerhardt and Martinique’s Aurelie Joachim are others who were crowned Miss World Top Model.

Posting a picture of her dressed as a princess when she was a little girl on Instagram on Saturday morning, Valeria Peres from Puerto Rico, who made it to the Top 40 with her Beauty With A Purpose (BWAP) project, said she will walk the stage tonight for every girl who dares to dream.

Her ‘Communicating Without Limits’ is all about promoting inclusion for the deaf, those with Down syndrome, and families battling cancer.

“It’s already Saturday here in India. The big day has arrived, bringing with it a whirlwind of emotions. But today, I just want to share this image, an image that captures what my heart has felt since I was a little girl… The girl who believed, who imagined this day over and over again, and who is now living it. Today, more than ever, I walk with her, for her… and for every girl who still dares to dream.”

Uganda’s Natasha Nyonyozi “The Nyonyozi Initiative”, which raises autism awareness and fight for social inclusion, is yet another BWAP project that has made a splash and won her a spot in the Top 40.

“No matter the outcome, this journey has been life-changing,” posted Nyonyozi on Instagram on D-Day.

Mille Mae Adams from Wales and her BWAP project, “First Aid Against Knife Crime”, which turns tragedy into hope with life-saving education for youth, too, is part of Top 18 contesting for the crown.

Indonesia’s Monica Kezia not only shined bright with the BWAP project, “Pipeline for Lifeline”, which aims to bring clean water and dignity to vulnerable communities, she also won the Miss World Talent title.

Monica’s dazzling piano performance earned her a fast-track spot in Top 40.

One of the older contestants, Miss Trinidad & Tobago (T&T) Anna-Lise Nanton is a Geotechnical and Civil Engineer and is a football player, to boot.

T&T, which has been competing in Miss World since 1954, has seen only one winner so far – Giselle Laronde in 1986.

They too are rooting loud for their queen to perch atop the world.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/entertainment/bring-back-crown-india-cheers-as-nandini-gupta-fast-tracks-to-top-40-of-miss-world-3565715

As Punjabi hip-hoppers go global, bhangra outfits get a makeover

Diljit Dosanjh made his Met Gala debut dressed like an early 20th Century maharajah

Indian singer Diljit Dosanjh’s Met Gala debut last month left a lasting impression on global fashion.

The 41-year-old singer, who is the only Punjabi musician to perform at Coachella, walked the red carpet dressed like an early 20th Century maharajah.

His opulent ivory and gold ensemble – created by designer Prabal Gurung – complete with a feathered bejewelled turban, trended in India for weeks.

He also wore a gorgeous diamond necklace, its design inspired by a Cartier piece worn by an erstwhile king of the northern Indian state of Punjab.

A Panthère de Cartier watch, a lion-headed and a jewel-studded sword completed the ensemble, which had a map of Dosanjh’s home state embroidered on the back of the cape along with letters from Gurmukhi, the script for Punjabi language.

Of course, Dosanjh is no stranger to such style.

Just like his music, he’s carved out a niche in fashion too – a hip hop singer who is known for melding traditional Punjabi styles with Western influences.

Often seen in anti-fit trousers, chunky sneakers, and stacks of necklaces that he matches with his colourful turbans, his unique form of self-expression has captured the imagination of millions, leading to interesting reinventions in the traditional Punjabi attire.

The changes can be felt everywhere. A 16-minute high-intensity bhangra competition in California would be impossible without high performance sneakers. And basement bhangra nights in Berlin are enjoyed in crop tops and deconstructed pants.

Punjabi music itself, high on volume and energy – with lyrics packed with the names of cities and global luxury brands – has become a subculture.

It’s not just Dosanjh – several other Punjabi musicians have also influenced the region’s style game.

Not long ago, Punjabi-Canadian singer Jazzy B’s rings, often the size of a cookie, along with his plus-sized Kanda pendant and silver blonde hair tints, were trending.

More recently, the yellow tinted glasses worn by singer Badshah; the baggy hoodies sported by Yo Yo Honey Singh; and AP Dhillon’s Louis Vuitton bombers and Chanel watches have been hugely popular with Punjabi youth.

But even though their influence was significant, it was restricted to a region. Dosanjh and a few others like him, however, have managed to mount it to a global level, their style speaking to both the Sikh diaspora as well as a broader audience. For instance, the t-shirts, pearls and sneakers Dosanjh wore to his world tour last year were sold out in a matter of hours. Dhillon’s style statements at Paris Couture Week have created aspiration among Punjabi youth.

Cultural experts say that this reinvention, both in music and fashion, has its roots in Western pop-culture as most of the artistes live and perform in the West.

“Punjabi men are inventive. The region has been at the forefront of fusion, it believes in hybridity. This is especially the case with the Punjabi diaspora – even when they live in ghettos, they are the showmen [of their lives],” says art historian, author and museum curator Alka Pande.

Over the years, as the Punjabi diaspora community grew, a new generation of musicians began mixing modern hip-hop sounds with elements of traditional Punjabi aesthetics.

Their distinct style lexicon – of gold chains, faux fur jackets, plus-sized accessories, braids and beards – went on to spawn media articles, books and doctoral theses on South Asian culture.

The coin dropped instantly back home in Punjab, which absorbed logo fashion like a sponge when luxury brands arrived in the 2000s. For Punjabis – who are largely a farming community – it was an aspirational uprising, symbolic of how success and prosperity should look.

“It symbolised the movement of the Punjabi identity from a farmer to a global consumer,” says acclaimed singer Rabbi Shergill.

Arguing that performers, like everyone else, are a product of their times, Shergill says these impulses are “a response to the hyper capitalist world”.

Curiously, the style game of Punjabi musicians – from hip-hop, R&B, bhangra pop, fusion, Punjabi rap, reggae or filmy music – has also remained rooted and androgynous, instead of being hyper masculine.

A pop star may wear Balenciaga or Indian designer Manish Malhotra’s opulent creations; perform anywhere from Ludhiana city to London; dance with Beyonce around Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, atop a luxury car, or in a British mansion – but they always wear their Punjabi identity on their sleeves.

Dosanjh underlined this clearly with his maharajah look at the Met Gala. “It’s like the popularity of his androgynous style was waiting to happen,” Pande says.

The composite impact of this trend on emerging artists is unmissable today in Punjab.

Local Bhangra performances, for instance, are no longer limited to traditional “dhoti-kurta-koti” costume sets paired with juttis (ethnic footwear). Performance attire now includes sneakers, typographic T-shirts, deconstructed bottoms and even denims.

“Such items are highly sought after by customers,” says Harinder Singh, owner of the brand 1469.

The merchandise in Singh’s stores, includes accessories popularised by Punjab’s music stars, such as versions of Phulkari turbans worn by Dosanjh, Kanda pendants that were first popularised by veteran Bhangra artist Pammi Bai. Singh himself owns turbans in more than a 100 shades.

Source : https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd90z0kjvpzo

‘No Need To Bully And Harass Her’: Kangana Ranaut Demands Release Of Influencer Sharmistha Panoli

Kangana Ranaut on Saturday took to Instagram and demanded the release of influencer Sharmistha Panoli, who was arrested for allegedly making communal comments in one of her videos, which is now deleted. Kangana wrote, “No need to bully and harass her further, she should be released immediately.”

BJP MP and Kangana Ranaut on Saturday took to her Instagram story and demanded the release of influencer and law student Sharmistha Panoli. Panoli was arrested by Kolkata Police from Gurugram on Friday over a complaint against her for a now-deleted video in which she allegedly made communal comments and also spoke about the silence of Bollywood celebs on Operation Sindoor.

Kangana wrote, “I agree that Sharmistha used some unpleasant words for her expression, but such words most youngsters use these days, she apologised for her statements and that should be enough, no need to bully and harass her further, she should be released immediately (sic).”

Television actress Rupali Ganguly also tweeted in support of Sharmistha. She wrote, “The girl accidentally committed a mistake for which she later apologized. I think it would have been enough to give her a few warnings by police and let her go. Btw What about those who are openly threatening to kill this girl? #sharmistha (sic).”

‘This Is Not What Democracy Is’: Sharmistha Panoli

A video shared by IANS shows that as cops are taking Sharmistha with them, she is seen shouting and saying, “The harassment you have done being in a democracy, this is not what democracy is.”

#ReleaseSharmistha has been trending on X as many netizens feel that she should be released. Reportedly, Sharmishta has been sent to judicial custody for 14 days.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/no-need-to-bully-and-harass-her-kangana-ranaut-demands-release-of-influencer-sharmistha-panoli

 

 

‘MAA’ Trailer: Kajol shines in a gripping mythological horror with dark secrets

Audience’s anticipation is at its peak as Kajol dives into horror for the first time, leading a story soaked in ancient curses and divine rage.

Kajol in MAA Credit: Devgn Films

In her most powerful avatar yet, Kajol steps into new territory of terror with MAA, a mythological horror by Jio Studios and Devgn Films, a chilling new chapter from the World of Shaitaan.. The much-awaited trailer of MAA is finally here, and it’s nothing short of spine-tingling.

Audience’s anticipation is at its peak as Kajol dives into horror for the first time, leading a story soaked in ancient curses and divine rage. The intense posters of MAA has everyone talking and now the trailer promises to raise the bar.

Turning heads at the grand trailer launch event, Shaitaan aka R Madhavan made a jaw-dropping surprise, setting the stage for this dark new chapter with eerie charm and menace.

Directed by Vishal Furia and featuring Indraneil Sengupta, Kherin Sharma and Ronit Roy, MAA is the story of a mother who becomes Kali to end a demonic curse rooted in fear, blood, and betrayal.

Welcome to a world where mythology collides with madness. MAA is coming, and no force can prepare you for what awaits.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/entertainment/maa-trailer-kajol-shines-in-a-gripping-mythological-horror-with-dark-secrets-3564137

Tamil Actor Rajesh Dies Of Heart Attack At 75; Rajinikanth, Radikaa Sarathkumar Mourn His Demise

Veteran Tamil actor Rajesh passed away at the age of 75 on May 29, 2025, after experiencing low blood pressure and breathing difficulties. He was en route to a Chennai hospital when he succumbed to his health complications. His mortal remains are being taken to his residence in Ramapuram, Chennai. The funeral will be held after his daughter returns from the United States. Rajesh is survived by his son and daughter; his wife, Joan Sylvia Vanathirayar, passed away in 2012.

Superstar Rajinikanth expressed his grief on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “The sudden demise of my close friend, actor Rajesh, has come as a shock to me. It brings immense sorrow. He was a wonderful human being – may his soul rest in peace. My deepest condolences to his family and friends.”

Actress Radikaa Sarathkumar also mourned his death, writing, “Deeply shocked and sudden to hear of #rajesh’s unexpected demise. Shared so many movies together and had a deep respect to his wide knowledge of cinema and life, will be missed by family, friends and film fraternity. #RIP”

Rajesh’s illustrious career spanned several decades, during which he acted in over 100 Tamil films. He was introduced by the legendary filmmaker K. Balachander in the critically acclaimed film “Aval Oru Thodarkadhai.” Some of his notable works include “Thanneer Thanneer,” “Andha 7 Naatkal,” and “Payanangal Mudivadhillai.”

Source : https://www.spotboye.com/trending/trending-news/tamil-actor-rajesh-dies-of-heart-attack-at-75-rajinikanth-radikaa-sarathkumar-mourn-his-demise/6838257398e7b5da75cc8f8b

Pakistani Actress Hina Khawaja Bayat Claims There’s No Water In Washrooms Of Karachi International Airport: ‘No One’s Ready To Accept Mistake’

Pakistani actress Hina Khawaja Bayat claimed in a video on Thursday that there was a water cut in major public spots of Pakistan, including the Karachi International Airport. “People want to perform wuzu, pray namaz, take their kids to the washroom, but there is no water. No one is ready to accept the mistakes and fix them,” she said.

Pakistani actress Hina Khawaja Bayat claimed in a video on Thursday that there was a water cut in major public spots of Pakistan, including the Karachi International Airport. This comes a month after India suspended the Indus Water Treaty with the neighbouring country in the aftermath of the ghastly terrorist attack in Pahalgam.

Hina shared a video on her social media handle, recorded at the Karachi airport. In the video, she stated, “At a time when we should celebrate the achievements of Pakistan, I see that there is no water in the washrooms of the Karachi International Airport. People want to perform wuzu, pray namaz, take their kids to the washroom, but there is no water.”

She questioned, “Why are our airports, our institutions, our system in such a condition? No one is ready to accept the mistakes and fix them.”

“People are talking about massive new projects, new trains and such things, but who will look at the existing system? We have reached a point in time when there is no water in the washroom of an international airport. This is highly regretful,” she added.

Meanwhile, amid the raging tensions between India and Pakistan, the Prime Minister of the neighbouring country, Shehbaz Sharif, recently stated that he was “ready to talk” to India to resolve “longstanding issues”. This comes days after India attacked terrorist bases in Pakistan under Operation Sindoor.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/pakistani-actress-hina-khawaja-bayat-claims-theres-no-water-in-washrooms-of-karachi-international-airport-no-ones-ready-to-accept-mistake

 

FINE LINE Kris Jenner, 69, accused of photoshop fail by fans – despite incredible new facelift

KRIS Jenner has been accused of photoshopping her latest pics after her secret facelift.

Kris’ rep confirmed she had “work” done but stopped short of sharing the exact procedure.

“We can confirm that Dr. Steven Levine did Kris Jenner’s recent work,” they told Page Six last week after she appeared in Paris last week.

The 69-year-old showed off her amazing new look when she supported her daughter Kim Kardashian, 44, in the French capital during her court appearance following a traumatic burglary back in 2016.

She continued to wow the public as the Kardashians stars attended Lauren Sanchez’s bachelorette party in the city.

After landing back in the US, momager Kris then supported her youngest Kylie Jenner at the launch of Khy X Dilara, Kylie’s new collaboration.

She posed with daughter Khloe in snaps on Instagram, wearing a black denim zipper jacket and high rise denim pants from the collection.

Notably, however, Kris’ face was devoid of all blemishes with no wrinkles or marks in sight.

But while sharing a side profile snap, Kris, who’s boyfriend Corey Gamble is 25 years younger than her, appeared to reveal a tiny photoshop fail.

After spotting jagged silhouette lines under her chin, one fan said: “Kris you better werrrrrrrrk with your new neck/jaw!”

Others said she was morphing into Kim, writing: “Looks like kim omg”.

Fans have been left open-mouthed by her age-defying look, with many praising her for “turning back time”.

On Instagram, the mum-of-six has been bombarded with comments from fans discussing her youthful appearance, as one wrote: “This is insane babe it’s ok to age.”

A second chimed in: “Gorgeous! You look so young and amazing! You’re turning back time…”, while another penned: “Curious case of Benjamin Button.”

Kris has previously admitted to having Botox, fillers, a boob job, and a facelift, which she had back in 2011 before Kim’s wedding to Kanye West, 47.

Back in 2019, Kris told People: “It’s a one-stop show for me. And who doesn’t love Botox? For me, it’s been really great.

“My routine is pretty simple, but it always has been my entire life. A massage, a great facial, a manicure and a little Botox and I’m good to go.

“I’m pretty traditional. As long as I’m clean and scrubbed up, I’m a happy camper.”

Last year, Kris was praised for showing off her real face in photos with Corey.

Source : https://www.the-sun.com/entertainment/14349160/kris-jenner-photoshop-fail-new-facelift/

‘Maza nahi aayega na waisa unke bina’: Johnny Lever says Paresh Rawal should reconsider his exit from Hera Pheri 3

Johnny Lever has reacted to Paresh Rawal’s exit from Hera Pheri 3.

Actor Paresh Rawal shocked many when it was announced that he was no longer a part of Hera Pheri 3. It was then revealed that Akshay Kumar, the film’s other lead and producer, was set to sue the veteran actor for breach of trust. Now comedian and actor Johnny Lever has given his comments on this controversy and said that Paresh should rethink his decision and return back, in an interview with Times Now.

What Johnny Lever said

During the interaction, Johnny Lever said, “Mujhe lagta hai ki kar lena chahiye unko film, baithke baat karein, matter solve karein kyunki fans bohut miss karenge Paresh ji ko film mein, maza nahi aayega na waisa unke bina. To baat karke solve karlena chahiye, meri nazar mein to yahi sahi hai (I feel that he should do the film. He can sit and talk, and then solve the matter because fans will miss Paresh ji a lot in the film, and it will not be the same fun without him. So they should talk and solve the matter).”

About Paresh Rawal’s exit

There were rumours that Paresh left Hera Pheri 3 over creative differences. But Paresh squashed those reports. On May 25, Paresh Rawal himself tweeted an update about the case. “My lawyer, Ameet Naik, has sent an appropriate response regarding my rightful termination and exit. Once they read my response, all issues will be laid to rest,” the rather non-confrontational tweet read. The actor also returned his signing amount, with 15% interest.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/johnny-lever-says-paresh-rawal-should-reconsider-his-exit-from-hera-pheri-3-101748532482761.html

NOT FIT Shock twist as Jennifer Aniston’s shirtless ‘stalker’ WON’T stand trial for ‘harassing star & ramming into mansion gate’

JENNIFER Aniston’s accused stalker who crashed into the security gates at her Bel Air mansion has been declared unfit to stand trial by a psychiatrist, The U.S. Sun can reveal.

Jimmy Wayne Carwyle, 48, from Mississippi, appeared in mental health court in Hollywood on Thursday morning.

Jennifer Aniston’s accused stalker Jimmy Wayne Carwyle, seen in court on May 8, has been declared mentally unwellCredit: Reuters

Carwyle has pleaded not guilty to charges including felony stalking and felony vandalism after allegedly driving his Chrysler PT Cruiser through the gates of Aniston’s property on May 5, 2025.

He appeared in court on Thursday wearing a yellow t-shirt and sporting a new look after a shave and a haircut, a stark difference to his previously disheveled appearance.

In mental health court last week, public defender Robert Krauss revealed a psychiatrist’s review found him to be incompetent to stand trial.

But Carwyle demanded a second opinion and Judge Maria Cavalluzzi said it was his legal right to have another psychiatrist review his mental state.

On Thursday, Krauss revealed the new psychiatrist is also of the opinion he is “not presently competent to stand trial.”

He told the court, “It’s not the outcome my client would have preferred.”

RESTRAINING ORDER

Criminal proceedings are now suspended and Cawryle will be put on medication ahead of an interest of justice and placement hearing on June 26, 2025.

The judge said two new reports will be produced and it will be an “opportunity to hear from the victim,” although it will likely be a statement through Aniston’s lawyer.

Carwyle is accused of harassing Aniston, 56, including social media, email, and voicemail messages between March 1, 2023, and the day he was arrested.

He is charged with one count each of felony stalking and felony vandalism, along with aggravating circumstance of the threat of great bodily harm.

Aniston was at home during the incident but did not come face-to-face with her alleged stalker, as he was held at gunpoint by her security team until police arrived.

A judge previously granted a restraining order keeping him at least 100 yards away from the Friends star and banning any contact.

The U.S. Sun understands Carwyle had been speaking to someone online who was impersonating Aniston in the weeks leading up to the incident, who had also been in contact with his family.

The actress’s lawyer, Blair Berk, was present in court on Thursday but did not speak during the hearing and refused to comment on the ongoing case.

Carwyle’s estranged wife previously claimed he traveled to Los Angeles months ago on a mission to meet the actress.

Julia Carwyle told the Daily Mail he believes he’s Jesus and Aniston is supposed to be his “queen.”

“I guess he was speaking with her. He had the impression that Jennifer Aniston and he were going to talk and meet,” she said.

“He thought ‘Maybe she’s just going to meet a guy […] to take a chance.’ That’s the way he was thinking.”

After seeing shocking images of Carwyle shirtless and staring ahead in his first court hearing, Julia said she no longer recognizes her husband.

“It doesn’t even look like him. He’s no longer there,” she said.

According to the outlet, Aniston is now looking at relocating to her newly-renovated Montecito mansion following the incident.

She purchased the luxury home from Oprah Winfrey in 2022 through an off-market deal for around $15 million.

Source : https://www.the-sun.com/entertainment/14353540/jennifer-anistons-accused-stalker-jimmy-wayne-carwyle-unfit-trial/

Rapper Emiway Bantai Receives ₹1 Crore Extortion And Death Threat After Releasing New Track: ‘Tribute To Siddhu Moosewala!’

Rapper Emiway Bantai, whose real name is Mohammad Bilal Shaikh, received a death threat coupled with a ₹1 crore extortion demand following the release of his tribute track to the late Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala. The threatening message was sent on May 25 to the official mobile number of Bantai Records, a day after the song’s release. The message read: “I am gangster Goldy Brar. Tera singer pasa 24 hours hai. Ek karod rupya chahie. Nahin to khatm kar dunga. Gangster Lawrence Bishnoi group, gangster Lon group, gangster Rohit Godara.”

Goldy Brar, who claimed responsibility for the threat, is known as an associate of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and is allegedly linked to the 2022 murder of Sidhu Moosewala. The threatening message was promptly reported to the NRI Coastal Police Station in Navi Mumbai by the manager of Bantai Records. Emiway Bantai, a prominent figure in India’s hip-hop scene, operates his studio in Seawoods, Navi Mumbai.

Law enforcement agencies have initiated an investigation to trace the origin of the message. A police officer from the NRI Coastal Police Station stated, “We are investigating the case and are trying to trace the number from which the message was sent.” Additionally, the Crime Branch has commenced a parallel investigation into the matter.

Source : https://www.spotboye.com/trending/trending-news/rapper-emiway-bantai-receives-1-crore-extortion-and-death-threat-after-releasing-new-track-tribute-to-siddhu-moosewala/6836d5c298e7b5da75cc8ed2

Hrithik Roshan was first choice for Abhishek Bachchan’s role in Bunty Aur Babli; here’s why he rejected it

Abhishek Bachchan earned praise for his performance as Bunty in the movie Bunty Aur Babli. However, he was not the first choice.

Hrithik Roshan rejected Abhishek Bachchan’s role in Bunty Aur Babli.

It’s been 20 years since the crime-comedy Bunty Aur Babli first hit screens, yet the film remains a fan favourite. With Abhishek Bachchan and Rani Mukerji winning hearts through their charismatic performances, the film is fondly remembered for its humour, heart, and heists. In a recent interview with Bollywood Hungama, director Shaad Ali revealed a surprising behind-the-scenes detail: Hrithik Roshan was originally the first choice for the lead role. (Also Read: Abhishek Bachchan: ‘Every director I met said they didn’t want to take the responsibility of launching me’)

Rakesh Roshan wanted Hrithik Roshan to Bunty Aur Babli

Shaad shared that while Rani was always the top pick for Babli, the role of Bunty was initially offered to Hrithik. He recalled, “Yes, we did meet Hrithik as he was our first choice. We sat for a few months with him. Rakesh ji (Rakesh Roshan) liked the script a lot and he was keen that Hrithik should sign the film.”

Here’s why Hrithik Roshan rejected Bunty Aur Babli

Explaining why Hrithik eventually turned down the role, Shaad added, “Hrithik was not very comfortable entering the small-town space at that time. He did a very good job of it later in Super 30 (2019), though. Back then, he had his reservations. He did, however, have many creative ideas for the film. In fact, it was Hrithik’s idea that Bunty and Babli should return to conning in the final scene. He reasoned, ‘They’re like Superman! They can’t go back to normal life and never return to the con world.’ Originally, the story ended with Bunty and Babli being let off and becoming law-abiding citizens. I should have thanked Hrithik in the credits.”

About Bunty Aur Babli

Written by Jaideep Sahni from a story by Aditya Chopra and produced under the Yash Raj Films banner, Bunty Aur Babli stars Abhishek Bachchan and Rani Mukerji as the titular con artists, with Amitabh Bachchan in a supporting role as a police officer tracking their schemes across India. The film follows two small-town dreamers who team up to pull off a series of elaborate cons under the aliases Bunty and Babli, gaining nationwide notoriety.

The film was a major commercial success. However, its sequel—featuring Saif Ali Khan in place of Abhishek and introducing Siddhant Chaturvedi and Sharvari—failed to impress audiences and ended up as a box-office flop.

Upcoming films of Abhishek Bachchan and Hrithik Roshan

Hrithik Roshan is gearing up for the release of his upcoming spy thriller War 2. Directed by Ayan Mukerji, the film also stars Jr NTR and Kiara Advani in lead roles. It is scheduled to release in cinemas on August 14.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/hrithik-roshan-was-first-choice-for-abhishek-bachchans-role-in-bunty-aur-babli-heres-why-he-rejected-it-101748354654706.html

Geeta Basra Opens Up On Her Early Bollywood Exit, Says, ‘No Godfather, It Was Difficult To Convince Them’ – Read To Know

Geeta Basra, known for her roles in Dil Diya Hai and The Train, recently opened up about her early departure from Bollywood.
She revealed that after meeting cricketer Harbhajan Singh, industry perceptions shifted, leading directors to assume she was getting married and thus stepping away from her career. This assumption cost her four film opportunities. “With no godfather in the industry, it was difficult to convince them otherwise,” she stated, highlighting the challenges faced due to traditional mindsets prevalent at the time.

Reflecting on the industry’s evolution, Geeta noted, “Today, no one cares if you’re married or have kids. What matters is your work on screen.” She emphasized that the focus has shifted to talent and performance rather than personal life choices.

Harbhajan Singh, her husband, expressed unwavering support for her decisions. He mentioned, “Whenever she had a choice to make in life, I always stood by her and supported her. But ultimately, everything happens as per God’s plan… My job is to stand by her like a pillar and encourage her in whatever she chooses to do.”

Source : https://www.spotboye.com/bollywood/news/geeta-basra-opens-up-on-her-early-bollywood-exit-says-no-godfather-it-was-difficult-to-convince-them-read-to-know/6835a9d098e7b5da75cc8e0e

Dipika Kakar Ibrahim Reveals Her ‘Tennis Ball-Sized’ Tumour Is Stage 2 Cancerous: ‘Most Difficult Time We’ve Seen’

Days after revealing that she has been diagnosed with a “tennis ball-sized” tumour in her liver, television actress Dipika Kakar Ibrahim, on Tuesday, shared that the tumour has turned out to be cancerous. “The most difficult times we have seen, experienced,” she wrote in her statement. Her husband, Shoaib Ibrahim, clarified that the cancer was restricted to the tumour only.

Days after revealing that she has been diagnosed with a tumour in her liver, television actress Dipika Kakar Ibrahim, on Tuesday, shared that the tumour has turned out to be cancerous. The actress took to her social media to update her fans about her health scare, and urged them to pray for her.

Dipika’s statement read, “As you all are aware last few weeks have been quite difficult for us… walking into the hospital for a pain in the upper area of my stomach… and then finding out its a tennis ball size tumour in the liver and then Finding out that the tumour is Second stage Malignant (Cancerous)… it has been one of the most difficult time we have seen, experienced! (sic).”

She went on to say, “I am all positive and determined to face this and walk out stronger InshAllah! With my entire family being by my side and All the LOVE and PRAYERS pouring in from all of you I will sail through this too! Keep me in your prayers! (sic).”

Cancer has not spread in her body: Shoaib Ibrahim

As soon as she shared the news with her fans, prayers and concerns flooded her social media. To provide more relief to fans and friends, Dipika’s husband, Shoaib Ibrahim, uploaded a late night vlog on their YouTube channel, in which he explained that the cancer had not spread in Dipika’s body.

“The doctors have conducted all necessary tests, and by the grace of God, the cancer has not spread in her body and is just restricted to the tumour. She will be fine once the tumour is removed through surgery, Inshallah,” he stated.

Dipika and Shoaib had earlier revealed that she could not undergo the surgery that was scheduled for this week as the Sasural Simar Ka actress was down with flu. However, the couple reassured in the vlog that the surgery will be conducted as soon as the doctors declare Dipika fit for it.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/dipika-kakar-ibrahim-reveals-her-tennis-ball-sized-tumour-is-stage-2-cancerous-most-difficult-time-weve-seen

 

STAR GONE Taina Elg dead at 95: Double Golden Globe-winning actress who starred next to Gene Kelly in Hollywood’s golden age dies

DOUBLE Golden Globe-winning star Taina Elg has died aged 95.

The actress and dancer, who starred alongside Gene Kelly in the 1957 musical Les Girls, sadly passed away on May 15.

Taina Elg has sadly died aged 95Credit: Avalon.red

Her family confirmed she died in an assisted care facility in Helsinki, as reported by the Helsinki Times.

The iconic Finland-born star also appeared opposite Kenneth More in the 1959 remake of spy film The 39 Steps.

On Broadway, Taina earned a Tony nomination for best featured actress in a musical for her work alongside Raul Julia in the 1974 to 75 revival of Frank Loesser’s Where’s Charley?

She was nominated again for the same award after her role in the 1982 to 84 original production of Tommy Tune’s Nine.

Taina became a Hollywood star after portraying the part of cabaret dancer Angèle Ducros in MGM’s Les Girls.

The production also starred fellow legends Mitzi Gaynor and Kay Kendall.

She and Kendall would go on to share the Golden Globe for best actress in a musical or comedy for their performances.

Taina also won a Golden Globe or best female foreign newcomer for her performance in Gaby, starring Leslie Caron.

Taina was born in Helsinki on March 9, 1930, and took a shine to the industry from an early age.

She appeared in her first film at just 10-years-old, and danced with the Finnish National Ballet in Helsinki.

The star went on to study ballet in Sweden, Stockholm, Gothenburg and in London with the Royal Ballet.

American film producer Edwin H. Knopf scouted her in London and she signed a seven-year contract with MGM.

Her last film with the company was Watusi in 1959, which starred George Montgomery.

Other credits include The Prodigal, Diane, Imitation General, The Bacchantes, Hercules in New York, Liebestraum, Barbra Streisand’s The Mirror Has Two Faces and One Life to Live.

She also feature in several soap operas including The Doctors, Guiding Light, The Edge of Night and Loving.

Taina gradually moved away from film and back to the stage in the later years of her career.

In the 60s and 70s she appeared in touring shows such as Irma La Douce and Look to the Lillies.

Later, she toured with Gigi in the 1980s and with Titanic from 1999 to 2000.

Taina leaves behind her son, jazz guitarist Raoul Björkenheim.

The Golden Globe actress was married to her first husband Carl “Poku” Björkenheim from 1953 until their divorce in 1958.

Source :https://www.the-sun.com/entertainment/14337358/taina-elg-dead-golden-globe-actress-gene-kelly/

Rakesh Roshan Performs Intense Gym Workout At 75, Hrithik Roshan Says ‘Too Good Papa’

Veteran filmmaker Rakesh Roshan stunned netizens on Monday as he shared a video of his intense workout routine at the age of 75. The actor-director served some much-needed Monday motivation to netizens, who gushed over his well-built physique.

Veteran filmmaker Rakesh Roshan stunned netizens on Monday as he shared a video of his intense workout routine at the age of 75. The actor-director served some much-needed Monday motivation to netizens, who gushed over his well-built physique.

Roshan took to his Instagram to share a video in which he can be seen indulging in intense boxing drills, leg workouts, lifting weights and performing exercises using balls and battle ropes. He also engaged in stretching, squats, and shoulder workouts, along with his trainer.

Sharing the video, Roshan wrote, “It’s not about being healthy-it’s about feeling your best every day.”

Hrithik was among the first ones to comment under his father’s post. “Uff damn ! Too good papa (sic),” he wrote. Anupam Kher commented, “Har har Mahadev!” Suniel Shetty dropped a heart emoji, while Vicky Kaushal’s father Sham Kaushal wrote, “Kya baat. So inspiring. Rakeshji (sic).”

On the work front, Rakesh Roshan is all set to bankroll Krrish 4, which will mark Hrithik’s debut as a director and will also feature him in the titular role.

Sharing a picture with Hritik, whom he fondly calls ‘Duggu’, Roshan on Instagram wrote, “Duggu 25yrs back I launched you as an actor, and today again after 25 years you are being launched as a director by two filmmakers Aditya Chopra & myself to take forward our most ambitious film #Krrish4. Wish you all the success in this new avatar with good wishes and blessings.”

Yash Raj Films (YRF) will produce Krrish 4 in association with Rakesh Roshan.

Rakesh Roshan expressed his delight at having Aditya Chopra as the producer, saying, “It brings me so much joy to see someone like Adi as the producer of Krrish 4. It was he who convinced Hrithik to sit in the director’s chair,” in a press note.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/rakesh-roshan-performs-intense-gym-workout-at-75-hrithik-roshan-says-too-good-papa-video

 

HAIL STORM The truth behind Justin Bieber’s ‘explosive’ rows with wife Hailey as pals fear ‘unbearable’ tension after mag storm

HE famously sang the 2015 anthem Sorry, but Justin Bieber may have run out of apologies when it comes to his very patient wife Hailey.

Insiders say the former golden couple are more at odds than ever, with the troubled singer displaying more erratic behaviour in recent days.

As one source from Hailey’s inner circle told The Sun: “I don’t know how long they will be together or if they’ll wait until things explode, but the situation is getting more unbearable week after week.

“Even when they’re together at home, they avoid being in the same room. And then they also travel a lot separately. They mostly do their own thing when they have time off. The situation is explosive.”

Fans have been concerned by 31-year-old Justin’s increasingly unhinged appearances, which coincided with the build-up to his former mentor Sean “Diddy” Combs’ sex trafficking trial.

But in the past few days, he has dragged his loyal wife into the spotlight over her biggest career triumph to date, as Vogue magazine’s summer cover star.

Justin blundered in with what was presumably an attempt to congratulate her. In a later-deleted Instagram post, he wrote: “Yo this reminds me when Hailey and I got into a huge fight.

‘Full-on crisis mode’

“I told Hails she would never be on the cover of Vogue . . .Yikes I know, so mean . . . For some reason because I felt so disrespected . . . I thought I gotta get even.”

He added: “So baby u already know but forgive me for saying u wouldn’t get a Vogue cover cuz clearly I was sadly mistaken.”

Fans immediately slammed Justin over the admission he had taunted Hailey over her career dreams.

And his odd phrasing — saying he had been “sadly mistaken” about her career prospects — caused even more outrage and confusion.

Furthermore, on Friday he kissed musician SZA’s hand during a rambling stage cameo at her LA gig with Kendrick Lamar.

Adding insult to injury, he was then called out for commenting, “I love youuuuuuuuu” underneath the post of Barbie actress Ariana Greenblatt, 17, who bears a likeness to his ex, Selena Gomez.

Fans labelled his remarks “creepy” and “disturbing”, and one alleged he was “more supportive” of the teen than his wife, who “he seems to enjoy embarrassing at every opportunity”.

Hailey has raised eyebrows by attending high-profile events this month without Justin. She enjoyed the Miami F1 Grand Prix with A-list pal Kylie Jenner and was at the Met Gala solo days later.

Over the weekend, she let her hair down again with her Kardashians-star friend and her sister, Kendall, stunning in a minidress at an LA fashion party.

“I told Hails she would never be on the cover of Vogue . . .Yikes I know, so mean . . . For some reason because I felt so disrespected . . . I thought I gotta get even

Insiders hint that, behind the scenes, Hailey and her hubby are “at each other’s throats”.

A source revealed: “Justin and Hailey get into fights, and Justin goes for the low-hanging fruit to try to win arguments, to make Hailey feel bad, and it works.”

One of the couple’s biggest problems seems to be their shifting dynamic. When they first got together, Justin was one of the world’s biggest pop stars and Hailey his most devoted fan. But the balance of power switched when she landed that major mag cover deal.

To do so based on her own triumphs as a beauty entrepreneur at the helm of her Rhode Skin company made the success sweeter.

Now, on one side, stands a fallen pop star who seems to have peaked after finding fame at 13 and who is now publicly unravelling.

He has not released a chart hit since 2022 and there are fears he is on the verge of a breakdown as he posts incoherent messages online and poses with drug paraphernalia.

On the other side is a beauty guru at the top of her game who, at 28, finally seems to have taken full ownership of her identity.

“There’s an ease that comes with [being a mother], a confidence

As the founder of skincare brand Rhode, Hailey is reportedly on track to hit billionaire status. Her Midas touch is so strong that a £15 skin smoothie she created for high-end Los Angeles health food shop Erewhon is a daily sell-out.

Having had her son Jack Blues with Justin nine months ago, Hailey appears to have gained a new level of confidence and purpose. She said in her Vogue interview: “I like who I am so much more than I ever have.

“There’s an ease that comes with [being a mother], a confidence.”

Now, it seems the couple are in full-on crisis mode, as they struggle with Justin’s fall from grace while Hailey is climbing to the top.

Things have certainly changed since the couple shared the front cover of Vogue in 2019.

Back then, Hailey, who was facing claims of being a “nepo baby” as her dad is actor Stephen Baldwin, was doing her best to ignore critics calling her a “fan girl”.

Justin’s admirers, dubbed Beliebers, insisted she had dreamt about marrying him ever since they met backstage on the Today show when she was 12.

She has also been subjected to trolling by devotees of Selena Gomez, who claimed the singer was still in love with his ex.

Speaking in their joint interview at the time, Justin said: “I’m the emotionally unstable one. I struggle with finding peace.

“I just feel like I care so much and I want things to be so good and I want people to like me. Hailey’s very logical and structured, which I need. With the lifestyle I live, everything is so uncertain.

“I need one thing that’s certain. And that [taking her hand] is my baby boo.”

According to insiders, this is how things have often played out behind the scenes. Justin takes things to the edge and spirals, while Hailey reins him in.

‘Playing with fire’

Long before they coupled up, Justin had a chaotic time in the spotlight. At 15, he spent 48 hours hanging out with close pal Diddy, where they planned to go “full buck crazy”, the rapper said.

Four years later, Justin was nicked by cops, aged 19, and charged with driving under the influence and resisting arrest.

Since Diddy’s arrest last year, unfounded gossip online has linked the Canadian singer’s reported mental health problems with his former mentor’s alleged crimes.

It led to a rare statement from Justin’s spokesperson earlier this month, saying: “Although Justin is not among Sean Combs’ victims, there are individuals who were genuinely harmed by him.

“Shifting focus away from this reality detracts from the justice these victims rightfully deserve.” What is certain is that, when Justin and Hailey married, it seemed he had cleaned up his act.

Indeed, in that 2019 Vogue chat, he said that, while he still occasionally drank, he had quit drugs.

Hailey, who has never taken narcotics, praised her new husband, telling the magazine: “I’m really proud of him.

“To do it without a programme, and to stick with it without a sober coach or Alcoholics Anonymous or classes, I think it’s extraordinary. He is, in ways, a walking miracle.”

“I’m never trying [cocaine] because I’m just so scared that if I try it one time, it might lead into something else

However, in recent times, Justin appears to have abandoned his sobriety. He has been pictured seemingly smoking marijuana and with a bong.

In a post earlier this month, he joked about a phone case that can carry a spliff, in the way Hailey’s Rhode-branded mobile accessory has a lipgloss holder.

“He’s been playing with fire a lot lately,” our insider said. “Hailey feels like he is living like a teenager. He does his own thing — smokes, drinks and parties, and he doesn’t behave 24/7 like a father or a responsible man.”

Hailey has always understood the dark side of addiction. Her father Stephen has a history of drug abuse, but has been sober for more than 30 years.

She revealed in 2021: “I was never somebody who struggled with substances, but that’s because I was so aware of it because of my dad.

“I was like, ‘I’m never trying [cocaine] because I’m just so scared that if I try it one time, it might lead into something else.”

As it stands, Hailey and Justin have not responded to rumours their seven-year marriage is in crisis. Her Vogue feature certainly painted the picture they are happy and united.

But as Hailey continues to flourish, working hard, walking the red carpet and mixing with showbiz pals, Justin seems to be digging himself into a bigger hole.

With no recent new music, his life mainly revolves around spending time with pastor Judah Smith, who runs the controversial non- denominational church Churchome.

Another new addition to his friendship group is former Disney star Kyle Massey, 33, who, in 2021, was charged with immoral communication with a minor after allegedly sending pornographic material to a 13-year-old.

Source : https://www.the-sun.com/entertainment/14321773/justin-bieber-wife-hailey-rows-marriage-fears/

 

‘I Have More Money, Connections’: Suniel Shetty Recalls Abusing Gangster Hemant Pujari For Threatening To ‘Kill’ His Father

Actor Suniel Shetty revealed in a recent podcast how he once abused gangster Hemant Pujari for threatening to kill his father to scare him, and subsequently the entire Shetty community, to extort money from them. “I told him that I knew more about him than he knew about me…and that I had more money and connections,” he said.

Bollywood’s tryst with Mumbai’s underworld in the 90s in not a hidden fact anymore. Recalling his own experience from the time, actor Suniel Shetty revealed how he had once abused gangster Hemant Pujari for threatening him using his father’s name. The actor also stated that he threatened him back saying he had more money and connections than the gangster.

Recalling the turbulent times in the 90s, Suniel said on The Lallantop podcast, “Shettys were a bit aggressive in Mumbai at that time as they were a suppressed lot. So there were constant tensions between the Shettys and the underworld. Since I am a Shetty as well, gangsters would think that the Shetty community would give them money and bow down if they threaten or harm me.”

He went on to share, “Hemant Pujari would constantly call me. He and his men would call me on my personal number, my office, my manager, everywhere. He used to think that if he managed to scare me then the other Shettys would automatically be scared and pay them extortion money.”

Suniel revealed, “Once, he called me and said that he’ll shoot my father and kill him when he goes for his morning walk. I couldn’t tolerate it anymore and abused him, shutting him up. I told him that I knew more about him than he knew about me. And that I also had more money and connections than him, so he should not mess with me.”

“The whole thing was recorded and I approached the cops later. They then advised that I must not lose my cool at such gangsters and get all abusive, because they won’t think twice before pulling the trigger,” he added.

The actor added that such calls and threats from the underworld to celebs was quite common in those days, but he never feared them.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/i-have-more-money-connections-suniel-shetty-recalls-abusing-gangster-hemant-pujari-for-threatening-to-kill-his-father

 

Is Salman Khan ‘most misunderstood human being on planet?’ Suniel Shetty explains

PC: Suniel Shetty on Instagram, Viral Bhayani

Salman Khan is a superstar who shares a warm friendship with many Bollywood stars, including Suniel Shetty. In a recent interview, the Border actor spoke fondly about the Tiger 3 star and stated that he is the most misunderstood human being on the planet. Read on!

Suniel Shetty was in a conversation with The Lallantop wherein he spoke about his bond with Salman Khan. The Hera Pheri actor stated, “Salman is the most misunderstood human being on the planet.” Further on, he used two words, ‘human being’ and ‘being human,’ to describe his industry pal.

Shetty went on to state that the bhaijaan of Bollywood is a human of another level with every act of his. “I share a beautiful relationship with him. I don’t meet him regularly, but there is a lot of love and respect,” added the Dhadkan actor.

In the same chat, Suniel also defended Salman’s films not performing well at the box office. According to Athiya Shetty’s father, people call Khan’s Rs 200 crore movies a flop. But for half of the industry, it’s not just a hit but a superhit.

Suniel further stated that there are times when people are wrong in the selection of films. But despite that, the Dabangg actor works from the heart. Therefore, when Salman gets a good subject film, it will do magic, opined Shetty.

The Main Hoon Na actor was also quick to state that even the Sikandar actor’s underperforming films make Rs 200 crore. “Is saal ki saari films ka number dekh lena, you’ll know it will be lower than a Salman Khan film (Just look at the box office numbers of all the films this year; you’ll know it will be lower than a Salman Khan film.)”

Source : https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/news/is-salman-khan-most-misunderstood-human-being-on-the-planet-suniel-shetty-explains-1389405

Cannes Film Festival 2025: Alia Bhatt is retro chic in yellow Gucci skirt set and a floral-printed silk scarf

Alia Bhatt wore a striking yellow look by Gucci at Cannes Film Festival and exuded vintage charm like never before. The floral scarf wrapped around her head was the showstopper of entire look.

PC: Alia Bhatt Instagram

After stealing all the attention with her two looks in a Maison Schiaparelli gown and Gucci saree, Alia Bhatt turned heads again in a yellow outfit at Cannes 2025. The Gangubai actress posed wearing a yellow Gucci co-ord set – a sleek pencil skirt paired with a matching cropped bustier top and sharp cropped jacket. Hugging her figure perfectly and giving off powerful fashion-girl energy, Bhatt accessorised the look with a floral silk scarf.

Channeling those iconic 60s movie star feels, Alia Bhatt’s second accessory that highlighted the overall look was cat-eye black sunglasses. It added just the right amount of drama, while the mini handbag with gold accents looked every bit sophisticated.

For makeup, she chose to go minimal yet bold with a red lip and a subtle blush on her cheeks. It gave a minimal but impactful touch. The entire look screams luxe, polished, and ultra styles with that stunning blue ocean and yachts in the background just leveling up the whole aesthetic.

Source : https://www.pinkvilla.com/fashion/CelebFashion/cannes-film-festival-2025-alia-bhatt-is-retro-chic-in-yellow-gucci-skirt-set-and-a-floral-printed-silk-scarf-1389320

 

Mukul Dev Funeral: Brother Rahul Dev Performs Last Rites In Delhi; Heartbreaking Visuals Surface

Mukul Dev’s funeral was held on May 24 at Lodhi Crematorium in Delhi. Family, friends, and well-wishers gathered to pay their last respects. In emotional and heartbreaking visuals, Mukul’s brother, actor Rahul Dev, was seen performing the final rites, surrounded by grieving family members and friends offering condolences

Actor Mukul Dev, known for his work across Hindi, Punjabi, and Telugu cinema, passed away on May 23 in Delhi at the age of 54 following a brief illness. The actor was reportedly admitted to the ICU and had been hospitalised for over a week before his health took a turn for the worse on Friday night.

His funeral was held on Saturday (May 24) at Lodhi Crematorium in Nizamuddin, Delhi. Family, friends, and well-wishers gathered to pay their last respects.

In emotional and heartbreaking visuals that surfaced on social media platforms, Mukul’s brother, actor Rahul Dev, was seen performing the final rites, surrounded by grieving family members and friends offering condolences.

Earlier today, Rahul took to Instagram to confirm the news of Mukul’s shocking demise and share details of the cremation. Sharing a photo of his late brother on his Instagram story, he wrote, “Our brother Mukul Dev passed away peacefully at New Delhi last night… He’s survived by his daughter Sia Dev. Missed by siblings Rashmi Kaushal, Rahul Dev and nephew Sidhant Dev. Please join us for cremation at 5 PM.”

The sudden news of Mukul’s death has left many in the film and television fraternity shocked. Tributes poured in across social media, with co-stars and colleagues expressing their grief and remembering the actor’s contribution to the industry.

Mukul Dev, who started his career in the mid-90s, featured in several notable films and television shows, often praised for his versatility and screen presence. He is survived by his daughter, Sia Dev.

Mukul Dev featured in several TV shows like Gharwali Uparwali, Kasshish, Ssshhhh…Phir Koi Hai, Kumkum – Ek Pyara Sa Bandhan, and others. Over time, he became known for his roles in popular movies like Yamla Pagla Deewana, Son of Sardaar, R… Rajkumar, and Jai Ho.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/mukul-dev-funeral-brother-rahul-dev-performs-last-rites-in-delhi-heartbreaking-visuals-surface

 

Ajaz Khan Rape Case: Bombay HC Seeks State’s Reply On Pre-Arrest Bail Plea

Ajaz Khan | File Image

The Bombay high court has asked the State government to file its reply to the pres-arrest bail plea filed by actor Ajaz Khan in connection with the case registered with Charkop police station earlier this month for rape on promise of marriage and work in film industry, on a complaint of a struggling actress.

Vacation judge, Justice Shyam Chandak on May 22 asked the state to file its reply by June 2 while refusing to grant interim urgent relief to the actor.

Khan approached the HC seeking pre-arrest bail after the same was rejected by the sessions court at Dindoshi last week. The sessions court had refused to accept Khan’s contention that the relation between him and the actress was consensual and observed that, “The material on record shows that the applicant is married and an actress by profession. Though the victim is major, considering allegations it appears that consent is not free and unequivocally within the meaning of law.”

Moreover, the sessions judge opined that his custodial interrogation is required for medical examination to collect evidence, recovery of his mobile phone, verification of WhatsApp chats, call recordings and collection of other digital evidence including to obtain voice samples, etc.

The complainant, a struggling actress, had alleged that she was induced into a relationship by Khan, who allegedly misused his position as a celebrity and host of a reality show to gain the victim’s confidence. The FIR alleges that on the false pretext of marriage and promises of financial help and professional advancement, the applicant established physical relations with the victim on multiple occasions without her free and unequivocal consent. The woman alleged that Khan sexually exploited her on two occasions once on April 4 and again on April 24, on the assurance of marrying her.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/ajaz-khan-rape-case-bombay-hc-seeks-states-reply-on-pre-arrest-bail-plea

Alia Bhatt brings vintage drama to Cannes debut in peach outfit

Alia Bhatt makes stylish Cannes debut. (Credit: Getty)

After much anticipation, Alia Bhatt finally made her dazzling debut at the Cannes Film Festival, stealing the spotlight on the red carpet with a touch of vintage drama in a breathtaking peach ensemble.

Alia Bhatt exuded royalty in a serene off-shoulder bodycon dress by Schiaparelli, styled flawlessly by Rhea Kapoor. Her outfit featured ecru Chantilly lace adorned with organza and enamel flower embroidery. It was finished with layers of ivory mousseline, crepeline, organza, and tulle ruffles at the hem.

Keeping it elegant and understated, the actor completed her look with classic pearl studs and a neatly tied bun, letting her natural grace take center stage.

The ‘2 States’ actor, who is at the 78th Cannes Film Festival as Loreal Paris global ambassador, attended the screening of ‘The Mastermind’ on Friday.

Pictures of the Bollywood star with British actor Simone Ashley have also caught the attention of fans from the prestigious event.

Ahead of her red carpet appearance, Alia Bhatt shared a black and white photo on her Instagram Story, offering a glimpse of her Cannes look.

This year, the Cannes red carpet has seen a strong presence from Bollywood. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan made a striking appearance with her signature glamour. Joining her at the prestigious event were Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, Janhvi Kapoor, Karan Johar, Neeraj Ghaywan, Sharmila Tagore, Simi Garewal, and Urvashi Rautela, among others, each making their mark at the festival.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/celebrities/story/alia-bhatt-brings-vintage-drama-to-cannes-film-festival-debut-in-peach-outfit-2729678-2025-05-23

 

Paresh Rawal’s exit from ‘Hera Pheri 3’: Akshay Kumar’s legal representative warns of ‘severe legal consequences’

Rawal’s sudden departure from the project last week has sent shockwaves in the film industry and among the fans of the franchise who have been waiting for the third part for close to 20 years.

A still from the film ‘Hera Pheri’ Credit: Prime Video

Parash Rawal’s decision to leave “Hera Pheri 3” has taken everyone by surprise and will involve “severe legal consequences”, says the lawyer representing Akshay Kumar’s Cape of Good Films.

Rawal’s sudden departure from the project last week has sent shockwaves in the film industry and among the fans of the franchise who have been waiting for the third part for close to 20 years.

According to reports, Kumar — who also serves as a producer on “Hera Pheri 3” — has sued Rawal for his actions.

“I think there will be severe legal consequences. It’s of course hurt the franchise. We have written to him letting him know that there are a lot of legal consequences involved.

“There have been expenses incurred towards the cast, towards the crew, towards leading senior actors, logistics equipment, shooting of the trailer,” Pooja Tidke, Joint Managing Partner of Parinam Law Associate, which represents Kumar’s banner, told PTI.

She said Rawal had clearly indicated his involvement in the project through a social media post in January.

“Thereafter there were contracts entered into the shooting for the trailer. In fact, there was some portion of about three-and-a-half-minutes of the film itself that had been shot. Suddenly, a few days ago, we received a notice from Paresh ji saying that he is no longer associated with the film and doesn’t want to be associated with the film. So it’s taken everybody by shock and surprise of course,” she said.

Reneging from a contract has “severe consequences” for the film, she added.

“There’s reputational damage involved for the actors that are committed to the film, the franchise as a whole, and of course there’s a great deal of disappointment among the audience. So we’re optimistic that things work out, but as of now we’re facing legal issues,” Tidke said.

Though Rawal has not yet responded to the legal notice, she said they have given the actor seven days to respond.

Asked about the damages being sought from Rawal, she said his decision has caused “losses” to the producers.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/entertainment/paresh-rawals-exit-from-hera-pheri-3-akshay-kumars-legal-representative-warns-of-severe-legal-consequences-3553015

Ranveer Singh’s rugged look from ‘Dhurandhar’ sets the internet on fire

The ruffled look of the superstar makes the internet speculate about his character in his next project, making the undercurrent for his next project even stronger.

Ranveer Singh Credit: Special Arrangement

Bollywood livewire Ranveer Singh is one of the stars who is known for essaying characters with full finesse. Be it playing the menacing Alauddin Khilji or essaying the cricketing legend Kapil Dev on screen, Ranveer has effortlessly transformed himself into each role. His ability to embody diverse personas has been well-received by the audience and has garnered him a separate fan base and a true chameleon of Indian cinema.

While the audience has been eagerly waiting for him to come back on the screen, his looks from his upcoming film have kept the audience’s anticipation intact. Several clips of Ranveer Singh from his upcoming movie are doing the rounds on social media and have created a fan frenzy.

In one of the clips from the sets that has been leaked, Ranveer Singh is seen in a rugged look, walking in style and wearing full black attire and long hair. In the leaked video, the actor looks extremely hunched.

With his long hair and long beard, Ranveer has his fans on their toes. The ruffled look of the superstar makes the internet speculate about his character in his next project, making the undercurrent for his next project even stronger.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/entertainment/ranveer-singhs-rugged-look-from-dhurandhar-sets-the-internet-on-fire-3553183 

Woman arrested for trespassing at Salman Khan’s residence, even knocked on actor’s door

A woman was arrested after she trespassed on Salman Khan’s house claiming that she was invited to his house, in the second case this week.

Bollywood actor Salman Khan’s building faced two trespassers this week.(AFP)

A woman and a man were arrested by the Bandra Police for trespassing on Bollywood superstar Salman Khan’s building on two separate occasions. The woman even managed to knock on the actor’s door.

Two FIRs were lodged against the individuals who trespassed on Salman Khan’s building, Galaxy Apartments, in Mumbai’s Bandra West area on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Isha Chabria, a 36-year-old resident of Khar, entered the building in the early hours of Wednesday, claiming she had been invited by the actor.

“She managed to reach the actor’s flat and even knocked on his door. When Khan’s staff made an inquiry, they learnt that she had not been invited by anyone. They then handed her over to the police,” an official told PTI.

Man enters Salman Khan’s building

A police official told PTI that 23-year-old Jitendra Kumar Singh had allegedly entered Galaxy Apartments on Tuesday. He was seen roaming around Salman Khan’s house in the morning, when a police official deployed to ensure Khan’s security asked him to leave.

Singh, who hails from Chhattisgarh, smashed his mobile phone on the ground in response to the request.

“That evening, Singh walked into Galaxy Apartments, hiding behind a car entering the building. However, he was caught by the security. This time, they handed him over to the Bandra Police,” the official told PTI.

During police interrogation, Singh told the police that he entered the building to meet the Bollywood actor after the police did not allow him to enter the building.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/woman-knocks-on-salman-khans-door-in-second-case-of-trespassing-this-week-101747957562564.html

Cannes 2025: Did Aishwarya Rai Honour India’s Operation Sindoor With Her Iconic Look?

Aishwarya Rai’s sindoor at Cannes 2025 has fans linking her iconic look to Operation Sindoor. Many hail it as a powerful cultural statement.

Aishwarya Rai fans link her Cannes 2025 look to Operation Sindoor tribute.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s show-stopping appearance at Cannes 2025 continues to dominate social media, with her royal white saree and striking red sindoor sparking massive conversation online. While many praised her for embracing Indian tradition on the global stage, some fans believe there may have been deeper symbolism to her look than initially assumed.

Several users online speculated that Aishwarya’s sindoor may have been a subtle but powerful nod to Operation Sindoor, the Indian Armed Forces’ retaliatory strike on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The overnight operation, conducted between May 7 and 8, came in response to the gruesome Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen.

In the wake of the national operation, Aishwarya’s Cannes appearance in traditional attire along with red sindoor led many online to draw a connection. One user commented, “Representing Operation Sindoor.” Another wrote, “She dedicated this to Operation Sindoor. Such a beautiful lady.” A third added, “I’m so proud of Aishwarya Rai. Regardless of all the hate, she showed up as strong and as beautiful as ever. That too wearing sindoor in the midst of Operation Sindoor.” A fourth fan remarked, “Aishwarya Rai’s symbolical gesture of support and appreciation for Operation Sindoor.”

Others viewed her appearance as a subtle response to the ongoing rumours about her marriage with Abhishek Bachchan. The couple has been under intense public scrutiny since 2024, with speculation about their relationship status often making headlines. The gossip was largely driven by separate appearances and limited social media activity together. However, the couple has put up a united front in recent months through joint outings.

Source : https://www.news18.com/movies/cannes-2025-did-aishwarya-rai-honour-indias-operation-sindoor-with-her-iconic-look-9346942.html

 

Janhvi Kapoor Makes Stunning Cannes Debut With Homebound

Janhvi Kapoor just hit a major milestone—making her grand debut at the 78th Cannes Film Festival with her latest film Homebound. Directed by the critically acclaimed Neeraj Ghaywan, the film has been officially selected under the prestigious Un Certain Regard section, a spotlight reserved for films with unique storytelling and vision.

Homebound stars Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa, and its Cannes selection marks a significant moment in Indian cinema, placing Janhvi among a rare group of Indian actresses who’ve had a film in the Official Selection at Cannes.

For her first-ever Cannes red carpet, Janhvi Kapoor served ethereal glam in Tarun Tahiliani creation. The soft hues and intricate detailing of the dress perfectly mirrored Janhvi’s poised yet youthful energy, setting the tone for a dazzling international debut. With Homebound, Janhvi steps confidently onto the global stage—blending star power with meaningful cinema.

Source : https://www.spotboye.com/fashion/fashion-news/janhvi-kapoor-makes-stunning-cannes-debut-with-homebound/682d78cb98e7b5da75cc89b3

CAN YOU BEY-LIEVE? Beyonce splashes $300k on hair, makeup and fashion for daughters Blue Ivy and Rumi on Cowboy Carter tour

BEYONCE has transformed her current Cowboy Carter tour into a family affair – after spending an eye-watering $300,000 on hair and make-up for her kids.

The superstar’s epic tour launched on April 28 in Los Angeles, and while fans were treated to the usual dose of powerhouse vocals and jaw-dropping visuals, it was left to Blue Ivy Carter, 13, and seven-year-old little sister Rumi to steal the show.

Dressed in a matching gold, glittering outfit, Blue Ivy proved she’s inherited her mom’s fierce stage presence, dancing alongside her during America Has a Problem.

Rumi, meanwhile, made a heartwarming debut in the most heartwarming way, strutting her stuff for Protector.

Both girls stylishly looked the part, and The U.S Sun can reveal Beyonce went all out for her daughters with a full-on glam squad making them ready to party.

A tour logistics veteran close to Beyonce’s entourage with over 25 years experience says the superstar shelled out $18,000 in makeup alone, with two artists dedicated just to Blue.

They will cater for little Rumi when it’s her turn to appear, but that works out as a whopping $4,000 per day for the specialists.

With Blue set to appear on multiple dates during the 32 date tour, the bill for makeup alone is expected to exceed $120,000.

Hairstylists are also hired, and two stylists are on board for a cool $5,000 a day, and they can work with $65,000 invested by Beyonce on luxury hair products, custom styles and even gold accessories.

A stylist working exclusively with the girls is reportedly being paid $120,000 for the whole tour.

“The tour is a not that long, but there are many shows in same cities, which simplifies a lot of things and also makes it easier for the kids to be part of the show,” the source confirmed to The U.S. Sun.

“For them, the expenses are pretty important. A lot of money has been spent on make-up artists, on products and stylists who are paid very well during that tour to help the girls.”

Bey admitted in a documentary about her Renaissance tour in 2023 that she originally told Blue “no” when she asked to perform.

But after reading some brutal online comments, Blue decided to prove everyone wrong—and totally crushed it.

Even dad Jay-Z weighed in on CBS at the time, saying, “She was born into this life she didn’t ask for… everyone has an opinion. But for her to get on stage and take back her power- it’s iconic.”

Source : https://www.the-sun.com/entertainment/14281622/beyonce-cowboy-carter-tour-ivy-blue-rumi-fortune/

 

Cannes 2025: Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khatter, Karan Johar and Homebound team dazzle on the red carpet

Homable team at Cannes 2025

The cast and crew of Homebound walked the red carpet at the 78th Cannes Film Festival for the premiere of their film on a glittering evening on the French Riviera.

Homebound, which was directed by the celebrated Neeraj Ghaywan, has secured a distinguished place in the Un Certain Regard category, which honours distinctive voices and narrative styles.

The movie’s main actors, Janhvi Kapoor, Vishal Jethwa, and Ishaan Khatter, arrived in style and attracted attention as they posed for pictures against the famous Palais des Festivals in Cannes. Producer Karan Johar joined the trio, with director Neeraj Ghaywan.

At Cannes, Ishaan Khatter looked stunning in a deep wine-colored velvet suit that radiated both contemporary style and regal charm. A structured blazer with elaborate black embroidery or embellishments across the chest added a layer of texture and sophistication to the ensemble’s sharply tailored silhouette.

The outfit was stylish and eye-catching when paired with matching wide-leg velvet trousers. In order to let the rich fabric and delicate details pop on the red carpet, he kept the ensemble simple yet striking.

Janhvi Kapoor looks stunning in a delicate blush-pink outfit that combines contemporary style with Indian customs. Her ensemble consists of a structured blouse, a sheer dupatta draped elegantly over her head, and a finely pleated saree or saree-gown hybrid.

Layered pearls add to the regal appearance, and the fabric’s metallic sheen and intricate texturing give it an opulent feel. Her clean bun and sparse makeup finish off the elegant appearance.

With a striking white long coat with elaborate shoulder and button embellishments, Karan Johar embraces a baroque-inspired style. The coat adds theatrical flair with its wide black trousers and ruffled collar and sleeves. His spectacles, glossy black shoes, and slicked-back hair complete the quirky yet put-together ensemble, creating a real red carpet statement.

One of the most eagerly awaited Indian submissions to Cannes this year is Homebound. Its inclusion in Un Certain Regard demonstrates the increasing international acclaim of Indian narratives while also reaffirming the festival’s dedication to diversity in film.

Source : https://www.moneycontrol.com/entertainment/cannes-2025-janhvi-kapoor-ishaan-khatter-karan-johar-and-homebound-team-dazzle-on-the-red-carpet-watch-video-article-13036009.html#google_vignette

Neha Bhasin calls out Nancy Tyagi over false DIY claims for a Cannes dress: ‘This corset looks too familiar’

Singer and former Bigg Boss OTT contestant Neha Bhasin has sparked a fresh controversy by accusing influencer and designer Nancy Tyagi of falsely claiming that her Cannes 2025 outfit was self-made. On 18 May, Neha took to Instagram to point out that Nancy’s corset, worn on the red carpet, looked strikingly similar to one Neha had worn months earlier.

Neha wrote, ‘This corset looks too familiar hmmmm. Just wondering,’ and later posted another story saying, ‘Same same,’ along with a picture of herself in the same outfit.

Things escalated when it came to light that Nancy may not have stitched the outfit herself, as she had claimed in an emotional Instagram post. Surbhi Gupta, a boutique owner in Bandra, told The Free Press Journal that Nancy had bought the corset dress for Rs 25,000 before heading to Cannes.

‘She may have added a cape to make it look different, but the main dress is definitely ours. There was no barter or collaboration. She bought it, so she can wear it however she wants – but it’s our design,’ Surbhi clarified.

Nancy’s DIY image comes under fire

Nancy Tyagi is known for designing and stitching her own clothes, and she’s gained popularity for showing her transformation videos online. In her Instagram post about her Cannes outfit, Nancy shared that the colour was a tribute to her mother and that it took her nearly a month to finish the look.

Source : https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/music/news/neha-bhasin-calls-out-nancy-tyagi-over-false-diy-claims-for-a-cannes-dress-this-corset-looks-too-familiar/articleshow/121279844.cms

Cannes 2025 Day 7 Highlight: Highest 2 Lowest Gets Standing Ovation; Aditi Rao Hydari, Janhvi Kapoor, Karan Johar Arrive

The premiere of Spike Lee’s Highest 2 Lowest lit up Cannes with an unforgettable evening of cinema and celebration! Meanwhile, Bollywood dazzlers like Aditi Rao Hydari, Janhvi Kapoor, Karan Johar, and more made their arrival on the French Riviera for Cannes 2025.

Cannes 2025 Day 7 Highlight: Highest 2 Lowest Gets Standing Ovation; Aditi Rao Hydari, Janhvi Kapoor, Karan Johar Arrive

The biggest names in entertainment have taken over the French Riviera for the 78th Cannes Film Festival, turning it into a glittering galaxy of stars. From Hollywood royalty to Bollywood glam, it’s raining celebrities on the red carpet! With jaw-dropping fashion moments, thunderous applause at premieres, and back-to-back buzz, it’s been nothing short of spectacular. Missed the madness from Day 7? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with all the highlights. You’re welcome!

Denzel Washington Honoured With Honorary Palme d’Or
Two-time Oscar-winning actor and director Denzel Washington was honoured with Palme d’Or award at the 78th Cannes Film Festival.
In his emotional speech, he said, “This is a total surprise for me so I’m a little emotional, but from the bottom of my heart, I thank you all. It was a great opportunity to collaborate with my brother once again — brother from another mother, Spike.”
“To be here once again in Cannes, you know, we’re a very privileged group in this room that we get to make movies and wear tuxedos and nice clothes and dress up and get paid for it as well,” Washington added and continued, “You know, we’re just blessed beyond measure, I’m blessed beyond measure, and from the bottom of my heart, I thank you all. Thank you.”
Highest 2 Lowest Gets Standing Ovation
Spike Lee’s latest film Highest 2 Lowest, starring Denzel Washington, ASAP Rocky and others, received a standing ovation at the prestigious film festival.
Singer and businesswoman Rihanna also arrived at the Cannes 2025 to cheer for her beau. Dakota Johnson, Jason Momoa and other celebs were also spotted at the premiere.

From Being The First Actress To Have Her Wwn OTT Film Franchise To Her Unique Sarees Draping; Guess Who This Actress Is…?

In an industry often driven by formula, Taapsee Pannu has carved a space that is distinctly her own — bold, thoughtful, and unapologetically real. From championing women-led stories to making impactful sartorial statements, Taapsee stands out not just as an actor, but as a force for change.
Women-Led Films
While many still shy away from female-centric narratives, Taapsee has embraced them head-on — whether it’s Pink, Thappad, Saand Ki Aankh, or Badla. Her filmography is a testament to her belief that stories about women deserve equal space, depth, and dignity. She picks roles not for glamour, but for substance, challenging the norm with every project.
Unforgettable Characters
Each character she plays is layered and lived-in. Be it the restrained rage in Thappad or the resilience in Rashmi Rocket, she brings an intensity that’s as nuanced as it is powerful. Taapsee doesn’t play it safe — she plays it true, always pushing the envelope to show women as they are: complex, strong, flawed, and real.
The Saree as a Statement
Off screen, Taapsee’s style is equally iconic. Her love for sarees — worn with minimal fuss and maximum grace — is a quiet rebellion against fast fashion norms. She reclaims traditional attire as modern, fierce, and feminist, often using her fashion to mirror her personality: rooted, elegant, and effortlessly bold.
Philanthrophy
Beyond the acting, Taapsee is actively involved in philanthropic work, she sponsors the education of 100 underprivileged girls. Along with that she was also seen distributing essential summer supplies to people in Delhi.

Bigg Boss 18 Fame Shilpa Shirodkar Tests COVID Positive, Urges People To Wear Masks

Actress Shilpa Shirodkar, known for her recent appearance on Bigg Boss 18, has tested positive for COVID-19. The actress took to Instagram to share the news with her fans, expressing her concern and urging everyone to be cautious.

In her post, Shilpa shared a photo of herself wearing a mask and revealed that she contracted the virus despite being vaccinated. “COVID +ve. Mask up people,” she wrote, warning her followers to not let their guard down.

The actress also mentioned how the virus took a toll on her health. “I have tested positive even after being cautious. I’ve had terrible body ache, sore throat, and now breathlessness,” she stated. Shilpa urged everyone to take symptoms seriously and get tested immediately if they feel unwell.

The actress, who had taken a break from acting but made a strong comeback on the reality show, added, “This virus is not gone yet. Please wear your masks and take care of yourselves and your loved ones.” Her emotional message struck a chord with many fans and followers, who flooded the comments with get-well-soon wishes.

Shilpa Shirodkar was one of the top contestants in Bigg Boss 18 and has remained in the public eye for her candid and grounded persona. She has previously been part of several popular TV shows and Bollywood films.

Source : https://www.spotboye.com/trending/trending-news/bigg-boss-18-fame-shilpa-shirodkar-tests-covid-positive-urges-people-to-wear-masks/682aff7b98e7b5da75cc8795

Anu Aggarwal’s BIG REVELATION About Bollywood And Dawood Ibrahim’s Connection: All The Money…

Anu Aggarwal, famous for her role in the 1990 film Aashiqui, discussed Bollywood’s troubling past with the underworld during the 1990s in an interview. She revealed that many films were financed through illegal channels, involving notorious figures like Dawood Ibrahim. Read on…

Anu Aggarwal’s BIG REVELATION About Bollywood And Dawood Ibrahim’s Connection: All The Money…

Anu Aggarwal, best remembered for her iconic debut in the 1990 blockbuster Aashiqui, has made a startling revelation about Bollywood’s dark connection with the underworld during the ’90s. In a recent interview, the actress spoke about how several films back then were funded through illicit means.

Anu Aggarwal talks about Bollywood’s underworld ties

In a chat with Pinkvilla, Anu said, “It was a dirty business. I don’t know how dirty it is today,” Anu said, as she recalled the shadowy dealings behind the scenes of the industry in that era. “At that time, it was all under-the-table deals. It was ruled by people like Dawood Ibrahim. All the money that was coming into the film industry came from the underworld. It was a completely different scenario,” she added.
Anu, who walked away from stardom at the peak of her career, clarified that her exit from films wasn’t due to disillusionment. “I didn’t leave because of negativity or disappointment. I left because I had achieved everything already and wanted to focus more on personal growth,” she shared.

Anu compares herself to SRK

The former actress also opened up about the price of fame. She likened the fan frenzy around her to what superstar Shah Rukh Khan experiences today. “For me to walk around alone and live alone at that time… I had fans standing under my building. Luckily, it was an MLA-MP building, so we had police protection. It was madness,” she said.

Source : https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/bollywood/anu-aggarwal-big-revelation-about-bollywood-and-dawood-ibrahims-connection-all-the-money-article-151668484

Nancy Tyagi makes second Cannes red carpet appearance with self-designed outfit

After capturing global attention in 2024 with her debut at Cannes, Tyagi returned for the film gala’s 2025 edition in a custom couture ensemble she spent over 700 hours creating.

Nancy Tyagi Credit: Insta/nancytyagi___

New Delhi: Nancy Tyagi, the self-taught fashion designer from Uttar Pradesh’s Baghpat, walked the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival for the second consecutive year, wearing an outfit entirely designed and crafted by herself.

After capturing global attention in 2024 with her debut at Cannes, Tyagi returned for the film gala’s 2025 edition in a custom couture ensemble she spent over 700 hours creating.

The turquoise outfit, inspired by a garden in full bloom, featured delicately hand-painted flowers, a structured corset bodice and a flowing floral silhouette, according to a press release.

“I walked here last year, and since then my life has completely changed. My outfit is inspired by flowers because I really love them. It took 700 hours to create this.

“Heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been a part of this beautiful journey. This moment would be incomplete without them,” Tyagi said in a statement.

Source: https://www.deccanherald.com/entertainment/nancy-tyagi-makes-second-cannes-red-carpet-appearance-with-self-designed-outfit-3545179

Raj Nidimoru’s Ex-Wife Shares ‘Karma’ Post Amid Samantha Ruth Prabhu Relationship Buzz

As reports swirl around Samantha Ruth Prabhu and director Raj Nidimoru’s rumoured relationship, the latter’s estranged wife, Shhyamali De, shared a cryptic post about “karma”.

Raj Nidimoru’s wife, Shhyamali De, shares a cryptic “karma” post amid rumours of him moving in with actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu. Here’s what we know so far.

Samantha Ruth Prabhu seems to have found love again—this time with Citadel: Honey Bunny director Raj Nidimoru. While neither Samantha nor Raj have officially confirmed the relationship, the actress has been dropping subtle clues via Instagram. From cozy photos to joint temple visits, the rumour mill is buzzing louder than ever. Reports now suggest that the two are considering moving in together.

Amid the growing chatter, Raj’s former wife, Shhyamali De, has shared a cryptic message online that many believe could be a veiled response to the new relationship. Taking to her Instagram Stories over the weekend, Shhyamali posted a quote that read, “Create good karma. Help people and treat people fairly.” The timing, unsurprisingly, raised eyebrows.

This isn’t the first time she’s posted something that fans have interpreted as a subtle dig. Not long after Samantha shared snaps with Raj, Shhyamali posted another reflective note: “I send blessings and love to everyone who thinks of me, sees me, hears me, hears of me, speaks to me, speaks of me, reads of me, writes of me and meets me today.” The post quickly went viral, with fans drawing connections between her words and the rumoured romance.

Though Raj and Shhyamali have remained tight-lipped about their marital status, reports suggest they quietly parted ways in 2022. Adding fuel to the speculation, Shhyamali hasn’t posted any photos with Raj since their wedding anniversary that year, marking a noticeable absence from each other’s digital lives.

Source: https://www.news18.com/movies/raj-nidimorus-ex-wife-shares-karma-post-amid-samantha-ruth-prabhu-relationship-buzz-ws-kl-9341625.html

“If I Have To Choose Between Hell And Pakistan…”: Javed Akhtar

The lyricist said he gets abuse from “both sides” and doesn’t want either to stop.

Earlier, Mr Akhtar had also called out Pakistan for spreading propaganda on Kashmir.

In strong comments after the recent hostilities between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor, lyricist and scriptwriter Javed Akhtar has said that if his only two choices are between going to hell and the neighbouring country, he would choose hell.

Speaking at a book launch event in Mumbai on Saturday, Javed Akhtar said he gets a lot of praise, but abuses and brickbats as well from “extremists” on “both sides” – without elaborating on what the two sides are.

“What happens is that if you speak only on behalf of one side, you make only one side unhappy. But if you talk on behalf of everybody, you make a lot more people unhappy. I can show you my Twitter (now X) and WhatsApp in which abuses are showered on me from both sides. A lot of people appreciate me as well, praise me and help me keep my spirits up, but it is also true that extremists on both sides swear at me. This is how it should be, because if one side stops, I will start wondering what I am doing wrong,” the lyricist, who was speaking in Hindi, quipped.

“One side tells me you are a ‘kaafir’ and you will go to ‘jahannum’ (hell) and the other side says you are a jihadi and should go to Pakistan. Now, if these are my only two choices, I would prefer to go to hell… I was 19 years old when I came to Mumbai and I am what I am because of the city and Maharashtra,” he said

Source: https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-pakistan-operation-sindoor-if-i-have-to-choose-between-hell-and-pakistan-javed-akhtar-8440623

Vijay Deverakonda opens up on Liger’s failure, says he was ‘extremely sad’ for this reason

Vijay Deverakonda and Ananya Panday starred in Puri Jagannadh’s Liger. The action drama released in 2022 and tanked at the box office.

Vijay Deverakonda made his Bollywood debut with Liger.(PTI)

Vijay Deverakonda is gearing up for the release of his upcoming film Kingdom. The actor’s Hindi-language debut with Liger failed to impress the audience when it released in theatres in 2022. In an interview with Filmfare, the actor opened up about how he felt after the film did not turn out to be as expected. Vijay said that he always wanted to make a film with director Puri Jagannadh and ‘enjoyed’ the process very much.

What Vijay said about Liger
During the interaction, when Vijay was asked whether he anticipated that the film would not work after release, the actor said, “No, I was obsessed with my character, learning martial arts, building my physique to look like a fighter, figuring out the stammer. Everything about the role was so challenging that I completely enjoyed the process of making it. Growing up, I was a huge fan and admirer of director Puri Jagannadh, his film Pokiri with Mahesh Babu sir is one of my favourites and it was a dream of mine to make a film with him.”

‘I have zero regret about the film’
He went on to add, “I was extremely sad that we didn’t make a better film, it was a great idea on paper that we fudged…but I have zero regret about the film. It taught me so much and changed me so much. And a lot of what I do now and in the future has some learnings from the experience of making Liger and the aftermath of its release. I consider it a net win in life.”

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/vijay-deverakonda-opens-up-on-ligers-failure-says-he-was-extremely-sad-for-this-reason-101747490314716.html

Dipika Kakar Diagnosed With Liver Tumour, To Undergo Surgery; Husband Shoaib Ibrahim Shares Health Update, Seeks Fans’ Prayers!

Television actress Dipika Kakar, best known for her role in Sasural Simar Ka, is set to undergo surgery after being diagnosed with a liver tumour. Her husband, actor Shoaib Ibrahim, took to YouTube to share a health update about Dipika, requesting fans to keep her in their prayers during this challenging time.

In a video shared on his vlog, Shoaib revealed, “Dipika is not well. A lot of tests have been done, and a major health issue has been diagnosed. She has a liver tumour, and the doctor has advised surgery. It is a stressful time, but I have faith everything will be fine.”

Shoaib shared that they initially thought it was just a minor health issue, but after multiple medical check-ups, the seriousness of the condition was confirmed. “When things like this happen in the family, it affects everyone emotionally. I am just trying to stay strong for her,” he added.

He also mentioned that Dipika is keeping her spirits high despite the situation. “She’s strong, and we are trying our best to stay positive,” he said. Shoaib thanked fans for their constant support and asked them to pray for Dipika’s speedy recovery.

Dipika and Shoaib, who tied the knot in 2018, have always kept their fans updated about their personal lives through social media and YouTube. They welcomed their son Ruhaan in June 2023, and since then, their vlogs have become even more popular among viewers.

Source : https://www.spotboye.com/television/television-news/dipika-kakar-diagnosed-with-liver-tumour-to-undergo-surgery-husband-shoaib-ibrahim-shares-health-update-seeks-fans-prayers/6826d65998e7b5da75cc861e

Taylor Swift’s friendship with Blake Lively ‘halted’ as singer ‘wants no part’ of Justin Baldoni drama: report

Look what you made her do.

Taylor Swift and Blake Lively’s friendship has reportedly “halted” as the singer continues to get dragged further into the actress’ “It Ends With Us” legal mess with Justin Baldoni.

After being subpoenaed as a witness by Baldoni’s legal team last week, Swift has allegedly let her friendship with Lively take a backseat.

“Their friendship has halted,” a source told People on Thursday, May 15, adding, “Taylor wants no part in this drama.”

Taylor Swift before a Kansas City Chiefs game.
Getty Images

Another insider claimed that the Grammy winner and Lively are “taking some space,” but said the superstar pair are “not no longer friends.”

The Post reached out to Swift and Lively’s reps for comment.

The friends’ relationship, which dates back to 2014, was already rumored to be in a “fragile” place.

Swift, who is the godmother to Lively’s four children with Ryan Reynolds, was “really hurt” when she was implicated in the “It Ends With Us” legal dispute, a source told People in April.

They were allegedly working to “put it all behind them” until the subpoena “fractured” the progress they made, another insider shared.

In response to the subpoena, a Swift representative told The Post, “Taylor Swift never set foot on the set of this movie, she was not involved in any casting or creative decisions, she did not score the film, she never saw an edit or made any notes on the film, she did not even see ‘It Ends With Us’ until weeks after its public release, and was traveling around the globe during 2023 and 2024 headlining the biggest tour in history.”

On Thursday, Judge Lewis J. Liman granted Lively’s motion to strike the letter written by Baldoni’s attorney, Bryan Freedman, in the ongoing legal case.

In the letter, Freedman claimed he was told by an anonymous source that Lively’s lead lawyer, Michael Gottlieb, allegedly threatened to release Swift’s text messages if the “Bad Blood” singer didn’t publicly support Lively. He also accused the actress of asking Swift to delete their texts.

Gottlieb denied the allegations from the start — and the judge agreed, noting that Freedman’s filing was “improper” and “irrelevant” in the order obtained by The Post.

“It took the court less than 24 hours to see through Mr. Freedman’s irrelevant, improper and inflammatory accusations, strike them, remove them from the court and warn Mr. Freedman that further misconduct may be met with sanctions,” a spokesperson for Lively told The Post.

Swift was also mentioned in Baldoni’s $400 million countersuit against Lively and Reynolds, in which he accused Blake of calling Taylor one of her “dragons” and referring to herself as Khaleesi from “Game of Thrones” in an alleged text conversation.

Source : https://nypost.com/2025/05/15/entertainment/taylor-swift-and-blake-livelys-friendship-halted-amid-legal-battle/

Aamir Khan Productions’ ‘Sitaare Zameen Par’ To Launch Over 70 New Faces In Bollywood!

While the excitement surrounding Aamir Khan’s Sitaare Zameen Par had already been perfectly built up with its posters, the much-awaited trailer was released yesterday and has started receiving tremendous appreciation from all quarters. Bringing a wave of love, laughter, and happiness, the trailer of this spiritual sequel to the 2007 superhit Taare Zameen Par showcases Aamir Khan as a coach, along with 10 debutant actors delivering a dose of ultimate fun. Interestingly, apart from these 10 debutants, the film will also launch over 60 new faces.

Aamir Khan Productions’ upcoming film Sitaare Zameen Par is set to be a significant launchpad for fresh talent in the industry. The film will introduce 10 debutant actors in prominent roles, marking their first major appearance in a feature film. In addition to these debutants, the project also features around 60 new actors in various supporting and ensemble roles.

Source : https://www.spotboye.com/bollywood/news/aamir-khan-productions-sitaare-zameen-par-to-launch-over-70-new-faces-in-bollywood/6825c6c298e7b5da75cc85f6

Cannes 2025: Jacqueline Stuns In Silver Armour; Nitanshi Honours Rekha And More In Her Debut

The Bharat Pavilion was officially launched on Thursday in the presence of Indian film veterans Anupam Kher and Shekhar Kapur.

Nitanshi Goel and Jacqueline Fernandez steal the show at Cannes 2025.

The 78th Cannes Film Festival is underway, and Indian cinema is making a powerful impression at the global event. From the unveiling of the Bharat Pavilion to dazzling red carpet moments, the French Riviera is witnessing a vibrant celebration of Indian talent.

The Bharat Pavilion was officially launched on Thursday in the presence of Indian film veterans Anupam Kher and Shekhar Kapur. Indian films like Homebound and Tanvi: The Great set to premiere at the prestigious festival.

Jacqueline Fernandez added to the country’s proud presence at Cannes by being recognised under the “Women in Cinema” initiative by the Red Sea Film Festival. Representing India among six other global honorees, she was celebrated for her influence and contribution to cinema.

Jacqueline stunned on the red carpet in a contemporary white shirt dress adorned with metallic silver chains and detailed embellishments. The bold, sculptural ensemble fused structure and movement, giving her an edgy, futuristic look. With her sleek bun & radiant makeup, the Kick actress owned the moment.

Sharing glimpses of the event, Jacqueline wrote, “Cannes Day 1 with @RedSeaFilm. Delighted to be an honouree at the women in cinema initiative that champions female storytellers. #redseaiff #womenincinema #redseafilmfoundation”

Meanwhile, debutante Nitanshi Goel captivated the cameras with her edgy style. She first graced the red carpet in a structured black and gold gown with intricate embroidery and layered tulle. The off-shoulder design and minimal accessories oozed glamour.

Her second look, however, stole the show. Wearing a dusty pink and white lehenga-saree, Nitanshi paid tribute to Indian cinema’s golden age. Her hair was styled with pearl strings and framed portraits of legendary actresses Rekha, Madhubala, Meena Kumari, and Nargis.

Source : https://www.news18.com/movies/cannes-2025-jacqueline-stuns-in-silver-armour-nitanshi-honours-rekha-and-more-in-her-debut-9338979.html

 

 

Ranveer Singh’s Hilarious Response To ‘Who Are You?’ At F1 Race Goes Viral

Ranveer’s witty F1 moment with Martin Brundle resurfaces.

A throwback clip of Ranveer Singh’s lively appearance at the 2022 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has resurfaced online and is once again winning fans over. The video features a humorous interaction between Ranveer and former F1 driver-turned-commentator Martin Brundle during the pre-race grid walk.

As Brundle approached the flamboyantly dressed Bollywood star, he initially struggled to identify him and asked, “Who are you?” Without missing a beat, Ranveer responded, “I’m a Bollywood actor and I hail from Mumbai, India. I am an entertainer.”

Ranveer’s excitement was evident as he gushed about the adrenaline rush of being present at the race. “On top of the world! I can feel the exhilaration and adrenaline,” he said, leaving Brundle visibly charmed.

Brundle couldn’t help but compliment Ranveer’s bold outfit. “Respect for that suit, that’s punchy,” he remarked. To which Ranveer hilariously replied, “You know the best part, sir? I have to send it all back in the morning.” Dressed in a lime green shirt with pink and blue stripes, paired with chunky white Versace sunglasses, Ranveer stayed true to his signature flamboyant style.

As the video finds fresh love online, Ranveer is prepping for one of his biggest roles yet Don 3, directed by Farhan Akhtar. The film, which has seen several delays due to Farhan’s prior commitments, is now scheduled to begin filming in September this year.

Source : https://www.news18.com/movies/watch-ranveer-singhs-hilarious-response-to-who-are-you-at-f1-race-goes-viral-9338944.html

 

‘CAN’T CARRY THIS ANYMORE’ Cassie tells court ‘black eyed’ Diddy ‘raped her as she cried’ while dating her husband as jury shown ‘freak-off photos’

CASSIE Ventura accused Sean Combs of raping her after they broke up in graphic testimony as she finished her second day on the witness stand in the disgraced music mogul’s federal sex trafficking trial.

Cassie testified that Combs raped her in 2018, ending their decade-long relationship that was marked by extreme violence, abuses of power, and disturbing sex marathons.

Sean Combs watches as Cassie Ventura testifies during day three of Combs’ federal trial on WednesdayCredit: Reuters

Combs, 55, is on trial for five criminal counts, including racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking by force, and transportation to engage in prostitution.

Cassie, the government’s star witness and one of Combs’ alleged victims, testified that Combs raped her after she had begun dating her now-husband, Alex Fine.

The singer said she and Combs had a friendly “closure conversation” about their break-up at a restaurant in Malibu, California, before he took her to her apartment and allegedly attacked her in her home.

“I went inside, he came in and raped me on the living room floor,” Cassie, who is eight months pregnant with her third child with Fine, said on the stand on Wednesday.

“I remember crying and saying no. It was fast, his eyes were black.”

‘FREAK-OFF’ PHOTOS

Cassie began testifying on Tuesday about how Combs forced her to have sex with male escorts while he watched during drug-fueled sex parties he called “freak-offs.”

On Wednesday, jurors were shown graphic images from the freak-offs as Cassie described what was happening in each picture, which were shown on private screens to protect her privacy.

Jurors were seen taking deep breaths as they faced the pictures. Some darted their eyes away from the screens, while others shook their heads and looked down. One even put her hand over her heart.

The singer said she was terrified to refuse Combs’ orders out of fear he would share videos of the freak-offs, paired with his increasingly violent behavior and manipulative control.

She told the court Combs made incessant demands for the orgies, which took place weekly and would last for up to four days as she took drugs including cocaine, ecstasy, and mushrooms to stay awake.

The singer testified that Combs ordered escorts to urinate on her on multiple occasions.

Source : https://www.the-sun.com/entertainment/14219435/diddy-trial-live-updates-cassie-court-witness-video/

Urvashi Rautela’s Cannes Film Festival 2025 Look Is Worth $155.86 million, Becomes The Most Expensive Look In The History Of Met Gala And Cannes!

Urvashi Rautela, India’s youngest superstar and icon, is celebrated as the highest-paid actress and a global performer. With a staggering social media following of over 100 million across platforms, she is one of the most followed Indian celebrities internationally. Her immense popularity has earned her a spot on the Instagram Forbes Rich List, where she is the youngest Indian to feature. Urvashi’s remarkable influence, both in Bollywood and on the global stage, continues to inspire millions worldwide.

As far as fashion and vogue game is concerned, Urvashi Rautela’s magnetic presence and hypnotic aura is simply unmatchable. The diva has been winning hearts as the most prolific global superstar who’s been a complete outsider and no wonder, the entire entertainment industry, be it Bollywood, South or Hollywood respect her immensely for her accolades and achievements. Her own creative fusion and flair blended with her strong personality has always ensured that during grand and extravagant occasions, Urvashi’s look always becomes the talk of the town. Well, once again, her unmatchable swag and aura at Cannes 2025 has caught the attention of netizens and how. Media reports clearly suggest that Urvashi Rautela’s total look at Cannes is worth a whopping $155.86 million dollars. The look comprises her stunning Michael Cinco gown which is worth a stunning $ 4.84 million dollars. It’s made of an exquisite mosaic of Mexican art that commands high value because of its design, craftsmanship, cultural inspiration alongside the label’s reputation, especially for the fact that its price is more than Kim Kardashian’s 2022 met Gala outfit. It’s a brilliant output of thousands of hours of handwork. Not just that, her stunning jewellery is worth a massive $151 million dollars that includes items like Moussaieff Red Diamond, Oppenheimer Blue Diamond, Dresden Green Diamond & Tiffany yellow Diamond blended with the incredible Judith Lieber Scarlet parrot read diamond clutch as an accessory that costs 6 lakhs. The entire avatar has certainly become the talk of the town in no time and no wonder, only Urvashi could have pulled off this outstanding and ultra-luxurious most expensive look ever with precision and unlimited confidence. The pictures are going viral all over the internet and netizens as well as other artistes are certainly taking their dose of inspiration from the OG glam queen.

Source : https://www.spotboye.com/fashion/fashion-news/breaking-urvashi-rautela-s-cannes-film-festival-2025-look-is-worth-155-86-million-becomes-the-most-expensive-look-in-the-history-of-met-gala-and-cannes/68245aa198e7b5da75cc83ce

Sitaare Zameen Par trailer: Aamir Khan’s film is a slam dunk of emotions

Aamir Khan’s new film ‘Sitaare Zameen Par’ trailer has been released, showcasing a heartwarming story. The film promotes inclusivity and introduces fresh talent, creating high expectations among audiences.

Trailer of Aamir Khan’s Sitaare Zameen Par is out.

The much-awaited trailer of Aamir Khan’s ‘Sitaare Zameen Par’, a spiritual sequel to the 2007 film Taare Zameen Par, was released on May 13. 18 years after the original film, Sitaare Zameen Par promises another heartwarming and joyful story, with a few new twists.

In the three-minute trailer, Aamir Khan plays a basketball coach to a team of specially-abled children, setting the stage for an inspiring and entertaining narrative laced with emotion and humour. Genelia Deshmukh stars as his love interest in the drama.

Sharing the trailer on social media, the official Instagram handle of Aamir’s production channel captioned, “1 Tingu Basketball Coach, 10 Toofani SITAARE aur unki journey.Watch #SitaareZameenPar #SabkaApnaApnaNormal, 20th June Only In Theatres. Trailer Out Now (sic).”

The film that carries the tagline “Sabka Apna Apna Normal”, which champions inclusivity and aims to resonate deeply with audiences.

Besides Aamir and Genelia, Sitaare Zameen Par introduces a team of debutants: Aroush Datta, Gopi Krishna Varma, Samvit Desai, Vedant Sharma, Ayush Bhansali, Ashish Pendse, Rishi Shahani, Rishabh Jain, Naman Mishra, and Simran Mangeshkar.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/bollywood/story/aamir-khan-sitaare-zameen-par-trailer-new-talent-inspiring-story-2724354-2025-05-13

‘Gaali Nahi Khaani’: Apoorva Mukhija Aka The Rebel Kid REACTS To Being Asked About Cannes 2025 Debut Amid India’s Got Latent Controversy

Content creator Apoorva Mukhija, aka The Rebel Kid, reacted humorously to a netizen’s suggestion of attending Cannes 2025, saying, “Gaali nahi khaani,” hinting at potential online backlash. The suggestion followed an entertainment agency’s Instagram poll asking followers which creator they’d like to see at the event. Apoorva gained attention after a controversy on Samay Raina’s India’s Got Latent.

Content creator Apoorva Mukhija, best known as The Rebel Kid on social media, became a well-known figure after she recently found herself at the center of the controversy surrounding Samay Raina’s India’s Got Latent, where she was one of the panelists. Her comments made to a contestant made her the target of intense online hate, and after the episode aired, she received disturbing threats, including rape, death, and acid threats. In April, she made a strong comeback, revealing her side of the story.

On Monday, Apoorva reacted to a netizen’s suggestion of her attending Cannes 2025 by humorously saying, “Gaali nahi khaani” (I don’t want to get abused), hinting that she might face online hate if she made her debut at the prestigious event. This response came after entertainment agency Social Ketchup asked their followers in a fun Q&A session which creator they would like to see on the carpet at Cannes 2025, set to take place from Tuesday, 13 May 2025, to Saturday, 24 May 2025, in the glamorous South of France.

Apoorva recently revealed her mother got rape threats during Latent controversy. Appearing on BraveTalk with Nikhil on Yuvaa, she said, “People found my parents’ social media accounts. My mother’s account was public and when all of this was happening, for the first two days, I was only thinking about myself. I didn’t think about my parents. I didn’t know what was happening.”

The 24-year-old added, “My mom got a lot of R-words and rape threats… I didn’t know till three days. I called my brother and he told me that mom’s BP has shot up… it could have led to a heart attack. I asked him, ‘Fir mummy ne kya kiya?’ and he told me, ‘Mummy ne bas likha I am very proud of my daughter aur fir comments off kar diye.’ That really hurt me because as I said, I wanted to do a lot of things for my mom.”

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/gaali-nahi-khaani-apoorva-mukhija-aka-the-rebel-kid-reacts-to-being-asked-about-cannes-2025-debut-amid-indias-got-latent-controversy

Kangana Ranaut Praises PM Modi’s ‘Unmatched Courage, Wisdom’ After His Address To Nation Post Operation Sindoor

Bollywood actress and MP Kangana Ranaut has praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi after he conveyed a powerful message in his address to the nation on May 12. PM Modi clearly said Operation Sindoor was not over, saying India had only paused its operations and was keeping an eye on Pakistan’s behaviour.

Kangana Ranaut Praises PM Modi’s ‘Unmatched Courage, Wisdom’ After His Address To Nation Post Operation Sindoor

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke at 8 PM, marking his first official statement following the May 7 launch of Operation Sindoor — India’s military retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack. His address came just 48 hours after India and Pakistan agreed to an immediate halt to all military actions across land, air and sea. Now, Kangana Ranaut has praised PM Modi for ‘unmatched courage and wisdom’ minutes after the Prime Minister delivered a powerful speech.

Kangana Ranaut praises Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Taking to X, (formerly known as Twitter) and wrote, “Dear Prime Minister ji, you led us with unmatched courage, wisdom, and unwavering commitment and compassion for the nation. A great leader in every sense #Modi”

Kangana Ranaut wanted Pakistan to be ‘wiped off’ from world map

The Queen actress is known for not mincing her words while expressing her opinions about issues. Recently, the actress-turned-BJP leader took to Instagram Stories to slam Pakistan, labelling it a “creepy, nasty nation full of terrorists” and claiming it should be “wiped out from the world map.”
Her outburst followed Pakistan’s missile and drone strikes on May 8, which targeted multiple regions in India – including Jammu, Samba, Satwari, Udhampur, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Bikaner, and Jaisalmer.

 

ANXIOUS WATCH Celebrities who should be ‘worried they’ll be next’ as Diddy’s Freak Off guest list set to be exposed in bombshell trial

THE guest list of Sean “Diddy” Combs’ supposed freak-offs is set to be exposed in his upcoming federal trial, and any celebrity who engaged in the alleged drug-fueled sex marathons should be concerned, experts have warned.

Opening statements in the highly anticipated sex trafficking trial of Combs are expected to get underway on Monday morning as the once-prominent music mogul and executive faces a potential life sentence if convicted.

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs at the 6th Annual Diddy White Party in Bridgehampton, New York, in July 2004Credit: Getty Images

At the core of the federal government’s case against Combs is the disturbing 2016 hotel surveillance footage depicting him physically assaulting his then-girlfriend Cassandra “Cassie” Ventura and the suspected video recordings of the alleged freak-offs.

Prosecutors said Combs, with the help of his assistants, managers, and security team, organized and hosted freak-off events at hotel rooms and undisclosed locations.

Combs ensured female and male prostitutes were present and stocked the rooms with drugs, alcohol, as well as baby oil and lubricant, according to the five-count federal indictment.

The guests would be forced into drug-fueled, days-long sex marathons with commercial sex workers, which would often leave victims disoriented and requiring IV fluid to recover, prosecutors allege.

Federal prosecutors said Combs would participate in, masturbate, and secretly record the sex gatherings.

DAMNING EVIDENCE

Neama Rahmani, a former federal prosecutor not involved in Combs’ trial, told The U.S. Sun it would not be shocking if one of the government’s witnesses namedrops a celebrity during the trial.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if we start hearing the names of other people who participated in the freak-off,” said Rahmani, the president and co-founder of West Coast Trial Lawyers.

“Now, they haven’t been charged in this case, but some of them have been named in civil lawsuits brought by Diddy’s victims, many of whom are represented by attorney Tony Buzbee.

“So, I wouldn’t be surprised if one of the victim witnesses in this case mentions another celebrity.

“Now, that celebrity being mentioned may not result in criminal charges, but it will certainly tarnish their reputation.

“And the last thing any celebrity wants right now is to be associated with Sean Diddy Combs.”

Rahmani told The U.S. Sun that if the alleged freak-off recordings exist, two sets of people should be concerned.

“The most powerful evidence that was seized by the government has to be the videos,” he added.

“And we’ve only seen one video of Diddy seemingly beating Cassie Ventura at the Intercontinental Hotel in Los Angeles in about 2016.

“Criminal defendants can lie. Only when CNN got a copy of that video in May of last year did Diddy finally issue an apology.

“That’s how powerful video evidence is. And that’s why the government wanted to get the hard drives, the iPhones, the iPads, because Diddy reportedly videotaped these freak-offs.

“And if you believe Cassie Ventura, and I do, he did so for his own sexual gratification and pleasure, but also potentially to maintain control over the participants.”

Rahmani continued, “The video of the freak-offs, if they exist, may be the most damning evidence in this case.

“It may be the reason Combs gets convicted.

“There are two sets of people that should potentially be worried. Obviously, if anyone participated in these freak-offs and sexually assaulted victims, they can be charged or sued civilly.

“But there are also individuals in Diddy’s entourage that maybe helped set up the freak-offs.

“People buying the baby oil, people contacting prostitutes, people getting the hotel rooms, setting up the lights and cameras.

“Those individuals could potentially also be charged.”

BOMBSHELL LIST OF NAMES

On the first day of jury selection, potential jurors were given an expansive 17-page form containing a list of 31 personal and triggering questions regarding history of domestic violence, sexual assault, or harassment.

In addition to the questions, the pool of prospective jurors received a list of people and places connected to Combs in various ways and who could come up during the trial.

The list of people included well-known names like actors Michael B. Jordan and Mike Myers, as well as rappers Kid Cudi and Kanye West.

However, why the celebrities could be named in the trial remains unclear.

The celebrities have not been accused of any wrongdoing.

Rahmani warned that the celebrities named in civil lawsuits should be concerned if Combs is convicted.

“The other celebrities, they’ve been able to avoid potential criminal charges, but if Diddy is convicted and others are implicated, they should certainly be worried that they may be next,” the former federal prosecutor said.

Lisa Bloom, the attorney representing a John Doe and Dawn Richard – the former Danity Kane member previously signed to Bad Boy Records – in their civil lawsuits against Combs, said her clients are looking forward to justice being served.

“I can tell you that [Richards] wants justice to be done,” Bloom, the founder of the Bloom Firm, told The U.S. Sun.

“Of course, it’s a time of high anxiety, I think, for all of the accusers. And, you know, glad I think that the trial is finally getting underway.”

Source : https://www.the-sun.com/entertainment/14203787/diddy-sex-trafficking-trial-michael-b-jordan-kanye/

Bharti Singh Gets Emotional After Being Accused Of Enjoying In Thailand While Family In Punjab Faces Crisis Amid Indo-Pak Conflict (VIDEO)

Comedian Bharti Singh recently addressed backlash over being accused of vacationing in Thailand while her family in Amritsar faced a crisis amid rising India-Pakistan tensions. She clarified she’s in Bangkok for a work commitment, not a vacation. In her YouTube vlog, Bharti urged people to ignore fake news, stating, “India is a very strong country aur isse koi hilaa nahi sakta.”

Comedian Bharti Singh recently addressed the backlash she received after being accused of vacationing in Thailand while her family in Amritsar, Punjab, was caught in a crisis amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, following Indian forces downing multiple Pakistani drones near Amritsar. She revealed that she is not on vacation, but in Bangkok for a work commitment. In her recent YouTube vlog, Bharti urged people not to believe in fake news.

She acknowledged the problems in Punjab but emphasised that everyone is dealing with them silently. Bharti expressed her immense faith in both her country and the government. “India is a very strong country aur isse koi hilaa nahi sakta. You people are very innocent. When I read your comments I don’t get angry. I just feel aap log bahot bhole ho,” she added.

She further assured that her family is safe and doing well, sharing that they always respond with a smile whenever she calls them. Bharti added, “I want to clarify to everyone I’m here for work and not for any holiday. We had a shoot for 10 days and we had committed 3-4 months ago for this project. A lot of preparation has gone into it and it is not professional to ditch someone at the last moment. Maine humesha ek baat Punjabiyon se sikhi hai ek baar keh do toh phir keh do mana nahi karna.”

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/bharti-singh-gets-emotional-after-being-accused-of-enjoying-in-thailand-while-family-in-punjab-faces-crisis-amid-indo-pak-conflict-video 

‘Grasshopper Brain Cell Gen’: Kangana Ranaut REACTS As Young Kids Struggle To Name India’s President, Call Droupadi Murmu ‘Murunali’

Kangana Ranaut expressed her disappointment after young kids failed to name India’s President, Droupadi Murmu, and mistakenly called her ‘Murunali.’ On Saturday, she shared a video on her Instagram story, writing, “War won’t kill us but grasshopper brain cell generation surely will,” in reference to the India-Pakistan conflict.

Bollywood actress-turned-politician Kangana Ranaut, last seen in Emergency, recently announced her first leading role in the upcoming horror drama Blessed Be The Evil. However, the actress recently expressed her disappointment when a group of young kids failed to name India’s President, Droupadi Murmu, and mistakenly referred to her as ‘Murunali.’

On Saturday, sharing the video on her Instagram story, Kangana wrote, “War won’t kill us but grasshopper brain cell generation surely will,” in reference to the escalating conflicts between India and Pakistan. The actress’ reaction seemed to reflect her concern about the state of affairs and the lack of awareness among the younger generation.

The video begins with an anchor asking a group of girls, “Who is the President of India?” One girl responds, “I forgot his name.” Another adds, “Murunali, I don’t know. Murunu or something.”

A third girl says, “Ram Nath Kovind, right?” Meanwhile, a fourth girl confidently says, “Jawaharlal Nehru, he was the first president,” after cleverly pointing out that the host hadn’t specified the current President’s name.

About Kangana Ranaut’s Hollywood debut

Ranaut’s Blessed Be The Evil will be backed by the US-based production company Lions Movies. The film will star Kangana alongside Teen Wolf actor Tyler Posey and Scarlet Rose Stallone, daughter of Hollywood icon Sylvester Stallone, who was most recently seen in Tulsa King.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/grasshopper-brain-cell-gen-kangana-ranaut-reacts-as-young-kids-struggle-to-name-indias-president-call-droupadi-murmu-murunali 

 

UNDER FIRE Kanye West’s $1.5m burned-down church building is subject of arson probe as his real estate tax bill reaches $448k

KANYE West’s derelict church building – which was burnt to the ground – is now the subject of an arson investigation, The U.S. Sun can reveal.

The rapper’s rundown property in Northridge, north of Los Angeles, went up in flames in October 2024.

Kanye West fled America earlier this year and is currently in SpainCredit: Getty

It was brought down months after Kanye left it to rot, much to the annoyance of neighbors who called it an “eyesore” and expressed their concern about squatters on the land.

Now, The U.S. Sun can confirm the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety has inspected the place twice, once in January, and again in March.

But Kanye, 47, is nowhere to be seen and hasn’t paid for the inspections.

LADBS has placed two liens on the now-empty plot of land, which Kanye bought for $1.5 million in January 2023.

They’re not the only ones to be looking into the blaze, as the city’s fire department is also looking into possible arson, as it was lucky that neighboring properties did not burn down.

Kanye’s property, bought from the adjacent Cornerstone Christian Church, was either going to be a possible location for his controversial Donda Academy or a Yeezy Headquarters.

But eventually, it became neither and was abandoned.

The fire that overtook the building began on October 14 last year, just after 12.45 am, authorities claimed.

NEIGHBORS’ ANGER

No injuries were reported but one nearby residence did sustain superficial damage from the intense heat and flames as a crew battled the blaze for more than 30 minutes.

Neighbors had previously complained about the boarded-up windows, old shopping carts, and trash dumped on the land.

One said at the time, “I had no idea Kanye bought it but … it’s not a good look for the neighborhood.

“He needs to clean it up, you don’t want a bum breaking in and living there.”

Yellow caution tape now surrounds the land and a broken fence with a no trespassing sign is leaning against a nearby tree.

Aerial footage obtained by The U.S. Sun showed that all remains of the place are piles of debris.

It’s unknown whether Kanye is even aware the property burned down, and a rep for the rapper did not respond.

Kanye is currently in Spain after fleeing America following a backlash over his Hitler comments on X.

He stormed out of a Piers Morgan interview that aired this week after he was questioned about his vile posts.

This month, Kanye racked up yet more property tax arrears on five of his luxury homes and offices, bringing the total to an eye-watering $448,254.

In January, The U.S. Sun exclusively revealed he owed at least $365,592 in taxes including penalties for non-payment.

Now, a further $82,662 can be added to that tab, as he’s failed to pay the first half of 2025 on time.

Each month he defaults, another $3,272 in penalties is added to the bill.

His church has now strung up arrears of approximately $49,200 and $358 per month penalties – as he’s never paid taxes on the plot.

The biggest debt is at his derelict $6.7 million Yeezy Headquarters on Melrose Avenue in West Hollywood.

It’s accumulated arrears of $202,287 and is being stung with $1,435-a-month penalties.

Exclusive drone footage obtained by The U.S. Sun previously showed workers had ripped off the roof at the 7,400-square-foot space.

In one image, a mountain of trash can be seen at the entrance to the building, with discarded items piling up inside the property.

One worker could be seen digging in a mound of dirt, with vehicles situated throughout the space.

Piles of different materials were dotted around and work is now beginning on a huge structure in the center of the building.

Source : https://www.the-sun.com/entertainment/14185182/kanye-wests-burned-down-church-building-arson-investigation/

‘Hero bahut kam bache hai apne paas’ claims Housefull 2 director Sajid Khan; you’ll be stunned to know his reason

Sajid Khan reflects on the fading image of the quintessential Bollywood hero, contrasting it with the enduring grandeur of South Indian cinema.

Picture Credit: Sajid Khan Instagram

Sajid Khan recently shared his opinion on the fading concept of the “hero” in Bollywood, stating that the industry today is filled with lead actors rather than true heroes. Speaking on Bharti Singh and Haarsh Limbachiyaa’s YouTube channel, Bharti TV, Sajid offered an insightful reflection on how the definition of a hero has shifted over the decades.

According to Sajid, the idea of the quintessential Bollywood hero, once embodied by stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Vinod Khanna, and Mithun Chakraborty, has diminished significantly. “Hero bahut kam bache hain apne paas. There are no heroes in today’s time. There are leads,” he said. “The ones who used to be heroes are now just leads. Nowadays, anyone can do a film because the value of a hero has diminished.”

Khan emphasized that the true essence of a hero now primarily exists in South Indian cinema. He noted that the significance of a hero has endured in the South, which is evident in the grand entry scenes and larger-than-life portrayals seen in their films. According to him, heroes in South Indian films are held to a moral standard—they cannot take actions on screen that would be considered wrong for society. He pointed out that while the term “super-lead” doesn’t exist, the word “superhero” does, highlighting the kind of stature heroes once had in cinema.

Reflecting on the changing dynamics of the film industry, Sajid observed that actors from the earlier generations didn’t rely on well-sculpted physiques to make an impact. He mentioned that stars like Vinod Khanna and Amitabh Bachchan did not have particularly muscular bodies, yet managed to convey intensity through their expressions. He credited Salman Khan with popularizing the gym-toned look in Bollywood, particularly after the release of Maine Pyaar Kiya, which marked the beginning of the six-pack trend. However, he was quick to clarify that physical fitness alone does not make someone a hero, stressing that the real intensity should be reflected in an actor’s eyes.

Source : https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/news/hero-bahut-kam-bache-hai-apne-paas-claims-housefull-2-director-sajid-khan-youll-be-stunned-to-know-his-reason-1387066

Operation Sindoor Director Issues Apology Over Film Announcement: “Not For Fame Or Monetisation”

Operation Sindoor director Uttam wrote, “The intent was never to hurt or provoke anyone’s sentiments.”

The image was shared on Instagram.

Following the announcement of the film Operation Sindoor, director Uttam Maheshwari has issued a public apology after receiving backlash for the timing of the project’s reveal.

The film, inspired by India’s recent military operation in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, was unveiled shortly after the real-life events, drawing criticism for “being insensitive” to the ongoing situation.

In a statement shared on social media, Maheshwari clarified that the intention behind the film was never to hurt or provoke anyone’s sentiments.

“My sincere apologies for recently announcing a film based on Operation Sindoor, inspired by the recent heroic efforts of our Indian Armed Forces. The intent was never to hurt or provoke anyone’s sentiments,” he wrote.

Explaining his motivation as a filmmaker, he added, “I was moved by the courage, sacrifice, and strength of our soldiers and leadership, and simply wished to bring this powerful story to light.”

Maheshwari further stated that the project was created out of respect and love for the nation and not for fame or monetisation. “However, I understand the timing and sensitivity may have caused discomfort or pain to some. For that, I deeply regret,” he said.

Calling the film more than just a cinematic venture, he said, “This is not just a film, it’s an emotion of the entire nation and a social image of the country globally.”

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/operation-sindoor-director-issues-apology-over-film-announcement-not-for-fame-or-monetisation-8377393#pfrom=home-ndtv_lateststories

‘Sharam Karo, War Is On’: Movie Titled Operation Sindoor Announced; Netizens Slam The Makers

Amid the India-Pakistan war, a movie titled Operation Sindoor has been announced. It will be directed by Uttam Maheshwari and Nitin Kumar Gupta, and netizens are slamming the makers on Instagram. A netizen commented, “Sharam karo yaar war is on (sic).” Another Instagram user wrote, “They just want to mint money by making a movie (sic).”

Instagram

There were reports that many filmmakers have registered the title Operation Sindoor, but it is not yet known who will be getting it. Now, amid the situation of war between India and Pakistan, a movie titled Operation Sindoor has been announced. It will be directed by Uttam Maheshwari and Nitin Kumar Gupta, and produced by Nicky Vicky Bhagnani Films and The Content Engineer.

The announcement of the movie was shared on Instagram by paparazzi pages. Viral Bhayani’s page shared the poster and wrote, “Nicky Vicky Bhagnani Films & The Content Engineer collaborate together for India’s bravest strike based film ‘Operation Sindoor’.”

Netizens Slam Operation Sindoor Makers

Well, netizens are of course very upset with the announcement and they slamming the makers. A netizen commented, “Milking an ongoing war, with an AI generated poster. This is as dystopian as it gets.” Another Instagram user wrote, “Sharam karo yaar war is on.”

One more netizen commented on the post, “Actors and celebrities don’t have the guts to say anything publicly and they just want to mint money by making a movie on this . Wow brilliant.” Check out the comments below…

Operation Sindoor Movie Cast

It is not yet announced which actors will be seen in the movie. However, it looks like the makers are planning to make it a woman-centric film as the first look poster has a female army officer in it. Maybe the character might be based on Colonel Sofiya Qureshi of the Indian Army or Wing Commander Vyomika Singh.

Well, till now, no details about the movie have been shared apart from the first look poster. So, let’s wait and watch which actors will be roped in for the film.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/sharam-karo-war-is-on-movie-titled-operation-sindoor-announced-netizens-slam-the-makers

 

Until Shah Rukh Khan’s MET Gala debut, Raghav Juyal thought its ‘Halloween for the ultra-rich’; Kill actor makes hilarious revelation

After Shah Rukh Khan made a dashing debut at the MET Gala 2025, Kill actor Raghav Juyal revealed that billions finally discovered that something of this sort exists. Read on.

PC: Getty Images, Raghav Juyal on Instagram

The Indian contingent didn’t fail to impress the fashion police at the recently concluded MET Gala 2025. Among the many Bollywood stars who raised the temperature on the blue carpet with Shah Rukh Khan, who not just nailed the theme but also stole the show with his stylish ensemble. While the mega fashion event has been taking place for years, Kill actor Raghav Juyal stated that until SRK’s appearance, many thought the event was ‘Halloween for the ultra-rich.’ Read on!

Shah Rukh Khan turned up the heat and made an impressive appearance at the MET Gala 2025. The superstar channelized his inner King and arrived donning a bespoke attire by Indian celebrity designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee. It was only after SRK walked the blue carpet of the coveted fundraising event that actor Raghav Juyal finally realized the event existed.

Taking to his Instagram handle, Raghav reposted pictures of the Pathaan actor and thanked him for making billions of people realize that something like the MET Gala actually exists. He wrote on the picture, “Thank you, Shah Sir-because of you, billions (okay, more than half of the entire planet) finally discovered that something called the Met Gala exists.”

The Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan actor also funnily stated, “To be honest, until then, I thought it was just Halloween for the ultra-rich.”

Raghav Juyal reacts to Shah Rukh Khan’s MET Gala 2025 appearance:

Coming to SRK’s MET Gala 2025 look, the King of Romance wore a floor-length, elongated coat in Tasmanian superfine wool with monogrammed, Japanese horn buttons. According to the designer, “The coat is hand-canvassed, single-breasted with a peak collar and wide lapels. Paired with a crepe de chine silk shirt and tailored superfine wool trousers. A pleated satin kamarbandh completes this bespoke look.”

Khan amped up his look by carrying the Bengal Tiger head cane crafted in 18k gold with sapphires, tourmalines, old mine cut and brilliant cut diamonds. Shah Rukh also wore a layered custom stack with sapphires, tourmalines, old mine cut and brilliant-cut diamonds.

Source : https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/news/until-shah-rukh-khans-met-gala-debut-raghav-juyal-thought-its-halloween-for-the-ultra-rich-kill-actor-makes-hilarious-revelation-1386739

Amul India crowns Shah Rukh Khan “India’s Biggest GalaKaar” after historic Met Gala debut

SRK’s look was not only a head-turner but also caught the attention across the globe.

Amul India celebrates Shah Rukh Khan’s Met Gala debut. Credit: Amul India

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan created history by becoming the first Indian male actor to walk the blue carpet at the prestigious Met Gala, and as expected, the ‘King Khan’ made a royal entrance that left everyone in awe.

For his debut appearance at the Met Ball, SRK was seen in a custom look by Sabyasachi. He wore a floor-length, elongated coat in Tasmanian superfine wool with monogrammed, Japanese horn buttons.

He completed his regal avatar with crystal chains and the Bengal Tiger Head Cane, which was crafted in 18k gold with tourmalines, sapphires, old mine cut and brilliant cut diamonds. A signature ‘K’ necklace as a nod to his iconic ‘King’ legacy.

SRK’s look was not only a head-turner but also caught the attention across the globe. Amul India, which has a history of paying tribute to famous personalities through its signature Amul Topical ads, twisted SRK’s Met Gala appearance, calling him “India’s Biggest GalaKaar!” (sic)

The artwork features an animated version of SRK in his Met Gala avatar, paired with the line “Always In Fashion,” celebrating both his timeless charisma and Amul’s ever-relevant wit. Amul captioned the post:

“#Amul Topical: Shahrukh Khan attends the world’s most prestigious and glamorous fashion event!” (sic)

Shah Rukh Khan’s appearance generated a lot of buzz among his fans in India, with many amused by how he had to introduce himself to the Western media.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/entertainment/amul-india-crowns-shah-rukh-khan-indias-biggest-galakaar-after-historic-met-gala-debut-3529032 

Kantara 2: Junior Artist Dies By Drowning On The Sets Of Rishab Shetty Starrer

A very sad incident happened on the sets of Rishab Shetty starrer Kantara Chapter 1 on Tuesday afternoon. A junior artist died by drowning in Kollur Souparnika river. According to a report, MF Kapil, who hails from Kerala, reportedly went for a swim in the river after a lunch break and he was swept away by a strong current.

Instagram

A very sad incident happened on the sets of Rishab Shetty starrer Kantara Chapter 1 on Tuesday afternoon. A junior artist died by drowning in Kollur Souparnika River. According to a report in India Today, MF Kapil, who hails from Kerala, reportedly went for a swim in the river after lunch break and he was swept away by a strong current.

Local authorities and fire department immediately started search and rescue operation. However, Kapil’s body was recovered from the river later on Tuesday evening. A case has been registered at the Kollur police station, and an investigation is currently going on.

Kantara 2 Accident

This is not the first time that an accident has taken place on the sets of Kantara 2. Earlier, a bus with junior artistes had overturned in Kollur. However, reportedly no one was injured. Even a massive set of the film was destroyed due to unexpected wind and rain.

Kantara Chapter 1 Release Date Postponed?

There were reports that, maybe because of the delay in the production, Kantara 2 might get postponed. However, last month, the makers had clarified that the movie is not delayed and will release on October 2, 2025.

Kantara, a Kannada film, was released in 2022. While it received a fantastic response in its original language, the makers later dubbed and released it in multiple lanagues including Hindi.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/kantara-2-junior-artist-dies-by-drowning-on-the-sets-of-rishab-shetty-starrer

Diljit Dosanjh’s Fans Call Out Racism After Met Gala 2025 Appearance; Express Outrage As He’s Denied Iconic Patiala Necklace Steeped in Heritage- Read To Know

Diljit Dosanjh’s Fans Call Out Racism After Met Gala 2025 Appearance; Express Outrage As He’s Denied Iconic Patiala Necklace Steeped in Heritage- Read To Know

At the 2025 Met Gala, Diljit Dosanjh turned heads with his stunning appearance in a custom ivory sherwani, paired with a traditional turban and Punjabi accessories. His look was widely appreciated for its elegance and authentic cultural representation. However, controversy soon followed when it came to light that Diljit was reportedly denied permission to wear the iconic Patiala necklace, a historic jewel originally commissioned by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala and designed by Cartier.

Fans expressed anger and disappointment, accusing the decision-makers of racial bias. Their frustration was heightened by the fact that the same necklace had previously been worn by American YouTuber Emma Chamberlain at the 2022 Met Gala. The necklace, once considered among the most extravagant pieces in the world, mysteriously disappeared in the 1940s before being recovered in parts and restored by Cartier.

The fact that it was allowed to be worn by a Western celebrity but not by an Indian artist led many to question the inconsistency and fairness of such decisions. Supporters of Diljit took to social media to voice their displeasure, stating that an Indian artist should have had the right to showcase a piece that is so deeply connected to Indian heritage.

Despite the controversy, Diljit’s debut at the Met Gala was celebrated for proudly presenting Punjabi culture on a global platform. His choice to wear traditional attire was seen as a strong and dignified expression of identity, which resonated with fans and fashion critics alike.

Source : https://www.spotboye.com/fashion/fashion-news/diljit-dosanjh-s-fans-call-out-racism-after-met-gala-2025-appearance-express-outrage-as-he-s-denied-iconic-patiala-necklace-steeped-in-heritage-read-to-know/681b439b98e7b5da75cc7e67

‘We Know Her Heart’: Hania Aamir’s Team Defends Actress After Backlash Over Instagram Account For Indian Fans

‘We Know Her Heart’: Hania Aamir’s Team Defends Actress After Backlash Over Instagram Account For Indian Fans

Popular Pakistani actress Hania Aamir recently faced criticism online for launching a separate Instagram account dedicated to her Indian fans. While the move was initially seen as a kind gesture towards her growing fanbase across the border, some social media users accused her of creating a divide and questioned her intentions.

Following the backlash, Hania’s team has now issued an official statement to address the controversy. Sharing their response through her official channels, they wrote, “Our intention was to create a space where we could engage more closely with the fanbase that has grown tremendously across the border. With the number of fan pages and messages flooding in from India, we felt it was only fair to give them a dedicated platform.”

The team emphasized that this decision was never about division but about inclusion. “We want to clarify that this account was not meant to separate or divide, but to acknowledge and appreciate the growing love from Indian fans,” the statement continued.

They further defended Hania’s character by adding, “We know her heart, and her intentions have always been to spread love beyond boundaries. We hope people see it for what it was — a warm gesture.”

The actress, who enjoys immense popularity in both Pakistan and India, has often been vocal about unity and cultural exchange. Her interactions with Indian celebrities and fans on social media have played a part in building bridges between the two entertainment industries.

Source : https://www.spotboye.com/trending/trending-news/-we-know-her-heart-hania-aamir-s-team-defends-actress-after-backlash-over-instagram-account-for-indian-fans/6819f7f598e7b5da75cc7c4e

Diljit Dosanjh learns English from ChatGPT before Met Gala 2025, cracks up Shakira. Watch

Diljit Dosanjh chills with Nicole Scherzinger and Shakira before Met Gala 2025.

Singer, actor Diljit Dosanjh made history as the first turbaned person to walk the blue carpet of the Met Gala 2025. He made a stunning appearance in a maharaja avatar. A video featuring Diljit just moments before his arrival at the New York event has surfaced online.

Diljit Dosanjh and Shakira’s BTS video

It is a behind-the-scenes video by Nicole Scherzinger.

The clip begins with a glimpse of how an army of people helped to fix Shakira’s gigantic gown in a limo. In between, Diljit is seen busy with his phone. When she asks him what he is doing, the singer humbly replies that he is using Chatgpt.

“I am learning English,” he said with a straight face.

Diljit Dosanjh at Met Gala 2025

This year marks Diljit’s Met Gala debut.

He wore a regal ivory sherwani along with a tehmat by American-Nepalese designer Prabal Gurung, who also dressed Shakira and Nicole Scherzinger.

Diljit completed the look with a jewel-studded kirpan, turban and a layered necklace in a hat tip to the Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala.

He also wore a cape with the silhouetted map of Punjab and alphabets in the Punjabi script Gurmukhi embroidered on it.

His look was designed to emulate Sir Bhupinder Singh, the early 20th-century Maharaja of Patiala from the Punjab region of India, as per his stylist.

“Main Hoon Punjab #metgala,” Diljit wrote on Instagram, quoting the lines from a song in his film Chamkila. “Inspired by the Theme of Black Dandyism, I bring my turban, my culture and my mother tongue Punjabi to the Met Gala,” he added.

 

Diljit Dosanjh’s Met Gala Debut FIRST Look Revealed! Singer Turns Punjabi Royalty In Maharaja-Inspired Attire Designed By Prabal Gurung (See Video)

In true showman style, the singer-actor stepped out of New York’s Carlyle Hotel and left fans in awe as he embraced his roots, serving Maharaja royalty on the global stage.

Diljit Dosanjh’s 2025 Met Gala Debut | X

The Met Gala 2025 just witnessed a royal takeover, and it was led by none other than global Punjabi sensation Diljit Dosanjh. Making his much-awaited debut at fashion’s most prestigious night, Diljit redefined red carpet presence by fusing tradition with grandeur in a look that celebrated Indian royalty in all its glory.

In true showman style, the singer-actor stepped out of New York’s Carlyle Hotel and left fans in awe as he embraced his roots, serving Maharaja royalty on the global stage. Styled by one of the most renowned designers, Prabal Gurung, Diljit’s outfit was not just a fashion statement but a cultural moment for all Indians.

Diljit Donsajh’s Met Gala 2025

The first look of Diljit was revealed across social media platforms. The viral video showed Diljit in an impeccably tailored white ensemble that featured a structured suit layered with a traditional Indian drape, exuding royal finesse.

A matching white turban added authenticity and grace to the look, while layered jewellery elevated the outfit to a whole new level of sophistication. But what truly sealed the Maharaja energy was the sword case he carried, a nod to the ceremonial accessories of Indian kings, symbolising strength and legacy.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/lifestyle/diljit-dosanjhs-met-gala-debut-first-look-revealed-singer-turns-punjabi-royalty-in-maharaja-inspired-attire-designed-by-prabal-gurung-see-video

 

 

Babil Khan Clarifies Viral Breakdown Video, Says His Words Were ‘Extremely Misinterpreted’

Babil Khan Clarifies Viral Breakdown Video, Says His Words Were ‘Extremely Misinterpreted’

Babil Khan recently made headlines after a video surfaced showing him emotionally breaking down during a live session, where he mentioned the names of actors Ananya Panday, Raghav Juyal, and Siddhant Chaturvedi. The video quickly went viral, sparking a flurry of speculation and assumptions about his mental state and his relationships within the industry.

Following the buzz, Babil returned to Instagram to address the controversy. He explained that his statements were “extremely misinterpreted” and urged people not to jump to conclusions. According to him, he was experiencing a deeply emotional moment and had no intention of blaming or targeting anyone. He said, “I was having an emotional moment of vulnerability and I got carried away in my own feelings. Please stop this narrative of putting the blame on someone else.”

Raghav Juyal also stepped forward to clarify the situation. Expressing his concern and support for Babil, he said, “Babil is like family. He suffered an anxiety attack. We spoke for hours after that. People should not draw conclusions without context.” Raghav also criticized those who were quick to sensationalize the video and misunderstand the context of a private emotional breakdown.

Siddhant Chaturvedi echoed similar sentiments. He called out the culture of creating drama from someone’s vulnerable moment, writing, “Stop looking for drama in someone else’s pain.” His statement emphasized the importance of empathy and understanding, especially in an age where social media often lacks nuance.

Source : https://www.spotboye.com/bollywood/news/babil-khan-clarifies-viral-breakdown-video-says-his-words-were-extremely-misinterpreted/68182c1898e7b5da75cc7a24

Met Gala 2025: Indian stars Shah Rukh Khan, Kiara Advani, and more shine bright at fashion’s grandest fest

The event, an annual fundraising affair for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute, featured celebrities who were dressed as per the theme of this year’s edition: “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style”

Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Diljit Dosanjh, and Kiara Advani pose at the Met Gala in New York City, New York, U.S., May 5 | Photo Credit: @sabyasachiofficial/Instagram, Getty Images and REUTERS

Stars from film, music, and fashion converged at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, United States, on Tuesday (May 6), for the Met Gala, dubbed as ‘fashion’s biggest night out.’ The event, set to raise funds for the Costume Institute, grabbed the attention of viewers all around the world, but this year’s edition was particularly special to India as some of its biggest stars made stunning appearances at the blue carpet.

The event undoubtedly belonged to the ‘Baadshah of Bollywood,’ superstar Shah Rukh Khan, who made a grand debut to become the first-ever Indian male actor to attend the Met. One of the biggest living icons of Indian cinema, Khan dazzled on the Met carpet in a sublime black suit with gold accessories, a walking cane, a brooch and a long pendant bearing the letter K — for King Khan. Khan’s outfit was crafted by ace Indian designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee, who also joined Khan on the blue carpet.

Source : https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/met-gala-2025-indian-stars-shah-rukh-khan-kiara-advani-priyanka-chopra-diljit-dosanjh/article69543500.ece

Babil reactivates Instagram account, says video was ‘extremely misinterpreted’

In a series of purported video clips, Babil was seen crying inconsolably and calling Bollywood “the fakest place”. According to reports, the videos were originally posted on the “Qala” actor’s Instagram account which he had deactivated after they started doing rounds on social media.

Babil Khan. Credit: Instagram/BabilK

Actor Babil Khan, who set social media abuzz after a video in which he appeared to be emotionally distressed went viral on Sunday, said the clip was “extremely misinterpreted” and that he was only trying to show support for his peers.

In a series of purported video clips, Babil was seen crying inconsolably and calling Bollywood “the fakest place”. According to reports, the videos were originally posted on the Qala actor’s Instagram account which he had deactivated after they started doing rounds on social media.

The actor, who was most recently seen in ZEE5 cyber thriller Log Out, reactivated his Instagram page on Sunday evening after receiving messages of support from fellow actors Raghav Juyal, Siddhant Chaturvedi, and Kubbra Sait.

In an Instagram Story, Babil reshared Kubbra’s post in which she voiced her support for him.

“Thank you so much. The video was extremely misinterpreted, I was trying to show support to @ananyapanday @shanayakapoorO2 @gouravadarsh @arjunkapoor @raghavjuyal @arijitsingh. I genuinely don’t have the energy to indulge more but I do this as responsibility for my peers that I truly admire (sic)” he wrote.

His post was further shared by Ananya Panday and Adarsh Gourav.

“Only love and good energy for you Babil, always in ur corner (sic)” Ananya said.

“Only love and support for you brother,” said Adarsh.

After returning to Instagram, Babil re-shared his friends’ posts in his support on his Stories.

To Adarsh, he said: “Thank you bhai. Aadhi zindagi misunderstanding mein hi guzar jaati hai, lekin asli doston ka saath dil ko shuddh rakkhe, yeh hi iccha hai @gouravadarsh (Half of life passes by in misunderstandings, but the company of true friends keeps the heart pure — this is my wish)” Earlier in the day, the actor’s team issued a clarification, saying the video has been “widely misinterpreted and taken out of context”.

In the official statement, which was also posted on Instagram by his mother-producer Sutapa Sikdar, his team further said Babil — who has been vocal about his mental health struggles — was having a difficult day.

“Over the past few years, Babil Khan has earned immense love and appreciation for his work, as well as for his openness about his mental health journey. Like anyone else, Babil is allowed to have difficult days — and this was one of them. We want to reassure all his well-wishers that he is safe and will be feeling better soon.

“That said, a video of Babil has been widely misinterpreted and taken out of context. In the clip, Babil was sincerely acknowledging a few of his peers whom he believes are making meaningful contributions to the evolving landscape of Indian cinema,” Babil’s team said in the statement.

In the statement, his team also urged media publications and the public to consider “the full context of his words rather than drawing conclusions from fragmented video clips”.

Last week, Babil remembered his father, actor Irrfan Khan on his fifth death anniversary in an emotional social media post.

“With you, without you. Life goes on… With me, without me. Soon I’ll be there. With you, not without you. And we will run together, and fly, Drink from waterfalls, pink not blue. I will hug you so tight, and I will cry, Then we’ll laugh, just like we used to. I miss you,” he wrote on April 30.

Many film personalities, including Raghav and Siddhant, rallied behind Babil and re-shared the statement shared by the actor’s team on their respective Instagram pages.

“Kill” breakout star Raghav said: “Babil is my family and I am always with him no matter what.” “@raghavjuyal bhai you are my icon, my idol, and my elder brother that I never had,” Babil wrote back later.

Siddhant had shared an old clip of Babil in which the latter can be heard saying: “Mujhe itihaas likhna hai, kitaab nahin (I want to write history, not a book)” Babil re-shared this video, writing “@siddhantchaturvedi I love you brother.” Siddhant previously asked social media users and gossip columnists to “stop looking for drama here”.

“All of us are working hard to bring drama to you on your screens. Shayad wahan thodi kami reh gai hogi ki aap hamari neeji zindagi mein wo dhoondhne lage ho? (Maybe there was some shortcoming there that’s why you’re trying to find drama in our personal life)” the “Gully Boy” actor wrote on his Instagram Story, requesting people to steer clear of passing judgements. In her post, Kubbra had said Babil was already navigating stardom, the public gaze, and all its pressures, before he could even process the grief of losing his father. “No one teaches you how to navigate these big waters. But of course-we swim. We keep swimming. Just like Babil will. And when he comes up for air, I know-like many of us-I’ll be there. Here’s a reminder to all of us: Be kind,” she wrote.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/entertainment/babil-reactivates-instagram-account-says-video-was-extremely-misinterpreted-3524371

‘Can’t Ban Film Unless It’s Porn’: Prakash Raj Bats For Fawad Khan’s Abir Gulaal Release In India

Veteran actor Prakash Raj strongly reacted to the ban on the upcoming film Abir Gulaal in India, starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan alongside Bollywood actress Vaani Kapoor. “I am not for any banning of films…Let people decide. You can’t ban films unless it’s pornography or about child abuse,” he said.

 

Veteran actor Prakash Raj strongly reacted to the ban on the upcoming film Abir Gulaal in India, starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan alongside Bollywood actress Vaani Kapoor. Stating that nothing can be banned except for pornography, Prakash said that the decision must be left to people whether they want to watch the film or not.

During a conversation with The Lallantop, Prakash, who is known for voicing his unfiltered opinions, said, “I am not for any banning of films, whether it’s a right-wing or propaganda film. Let people decide. People have the right. You can’t ban films unless it’s pornography or about child abuse. But a thought process? So what? Let them come, no?”

The Singham actor also pointed out the rise in the outrage and boycott culture in India, especially with respect to films. Citing example of the Besharam Rang song controversy, he said, “Today, anybody can get hurt. ‘I’ll chop off the nose of Deepika Padukone! I’ll behead her!’ What sense does that make? Shah Rukh Khan… just because of a colour? They will create a hue and cry over anything.”

“Films like The Kashmir Files get a green signal, but others don’t. It’s selective,” he added.

Abir Gulaal, which was supposed to mark Fawad Khan’s return to Bollywood after nine years, had been facing boycott calls ever since its teaser was released online. The uproar intensified after the ghastly terrorist attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/cant-ban-film-unless-its-porn-prakash-raj-bats-for-fawad-khans-abir-gulaal-release-in-india

‘I Was Amazed To See The Quality Of Ramayana’: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis Praises Ranbir Kapoor-Sai Pallavi’s Film

Waves 2025 is currently taking place in Mumbai, and recently, a video of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has gone viral on social media in which he is praising Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi starrer Ramayana. The CM said that he was amazed to see the quality of Ramayana which was being created.

Instagram

Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, Yash, and Sunny Deol starrer Ramayana is one of the most awaited upcoming movies. Waves 2025 is currently taking place in Mumbai, and recently, a video of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has gone viral on social media in which he is praising Ramayana. The CM said that he was amazed to see the quality of Ramayana which was being created.

While talking to writer-producer, Namit Malhotra, Fadnavissaid, “I think as you rightly said we are world’s oldest storytellers. Our art, drama, music is very old, and we only wanted to couple it up with latest technology, and I think that’s what you are doing. So, yesterday, when I visited your pavilion with Honourable Prime Minister, I was amazed to see the quality of Ramayana which you are creating. I think that is the way we need to tell our stories to our new generation, and I think with what you are setting up will be the best in the globe.”

Ramayana Cast

Ramayana has an amazing star cast. Ranbir Kapoor will be seen as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi plays the role of Sita Mata, Ravi Dubey will portray the character of Laxman, Sunny Deol will be seen as Hanuman, and Yash plays the character of Raavan.

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana will be released in two parts. The first part will release on Diwali 2026, and second part will hit the big screens on Diwali 2027. Moviegoers are already excited about it.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/i-was-amazed-to-see-the-quality-of-ramayana-maharashtra-chief-minister-devendra-fadnavis-praises-ranbir-kapoor-sai-pallavis-film

 

From Kim Kardashian’s Thierry Mugler to Alia Bhatt’s princess moment; Top fashion moments from MET gala

Over the years, several celebrities have turned heads, made history, and sparked conversations with their daring, avant-garde, or simply unforgettable outfits.

The MET Gala, held annually at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, is the pinnacle of fashion-meets-art extravagance. Curated around an annual theme, the gala transforms the red carpet into a spectacle of innovation, personal expression, and high couture.

Over the years, several celebrities have turned heads, made history, and sparked conversations with their daring, avant-garde, or simply unforgettable outfits. Among the most iconic fashion moments are Kim Kardashian’s wet-look fantasy and Alia Bhatt’s elegant pearl-studded debut.

In 2019, Kim Kardashian left a lasting impression in a custom Thierry Mugler creation for the “Camp: Notes on Fashion” theme. Her nude-colored, latex corset dress was designed to look as though she had just stepped out of the ocean. Embellished with perfectly placed crystal droplets, the outfit clung to her body like a second skin, giving her the appearance of being perpetually drenched.

The look, which took months to construct, exemplified both high fashion and performance art, pushing boundaries in true MET Gala style. Kim’s dedication to the outfit, including wearing a custom corset so tight she could barely sit, spoke to the effort and theatricality the event demands.

In contrast to Kim’s dramatic flair, Alia Bhatt’s 2023 MET Gala debut was a vision of soft glamour and grace. Attending the event themed “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty,” Alia wore a stunning white Prabal Gurung gown adorned with over 100,000 hand-embroidered pearls. The design drew inspiration from Chanel’s bridal aesthetics, a tribute to Lagerfeld’s legacy. With flowing fabric, a corseted bodice, and pearl-studded gloves, Alia looked every bit the modern princess. Her minimalist makeup and accessories allowed the craftsmanship of the dress to shine, marking her as a promising global fashion icon.

Over the years, other unforgettable MET Gala fashion moments include Rihanna’s imperial yellow Guo Pei cape in 2015, which became a meme-worthy masterpiece and a benchmark for future attendees. Zendaya’s Cinderella transformation in 2019, complete with a light-up Tommy Hilfiger gown and a “fairy godmother” moment on the carpet, brought Disney fantasy to life. Meanwhile, Blake Lively consistently delivers jaw-dropping style, especially her 2022 Statue of Liberty-inspired Versace gown, which changed colors mid-carpet.

What makes the MET Gala unique is its ability to merge storytelling with fashion. It’s not just about looking good—it’s about embodying a concept, a mood, or a theme in the most dramatic and visually impactful way.

Priyanka Chopra stunned in a dramatic silver Dior gown with a feathered cape and bold crown at the 2019 MET Gala, embracing the “Camp” theme with fearless flair. Deepika Padukone channeled a Barbie fantasy in a metallic pink Zac Posen gown, exuding glamour with a voluminous silhouette and retro styling.

Source : https://www.moneycontrol.com/entertainment/from-kim-kardashian-s-thierry-mugler-to-alia-bhatt-s-princess-moment-top-fashion-moments-from-met-gala-article-13011936.html

Instagram accounts of Pakistani artists Fawad Khan, Atif Aslam and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan blocked in India

Fawad Khan, Atif Aslam and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan’s Instagram accounts blocked in India.

Fawad Khan, Atif Aslam and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan became the latest Pakistani celebrities whose Instagram accounts are no longer available in India.

Fawad Khan, Atif Aslam and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan’s Insta account blocked in India

Previously, the Instagram accounts of Hania Aamir, Mahira Khan and Ali Zafar were found unavailable in India as tensions continue to rise between India and Pakistan in the wake of the Pahalgam attack.

Imran Abbas, Imran Abbas’s IG accounts banned in India

The Instagram account of Imran Abbas who starred in Creature 3D with Bipasha Basu, also remains unavailable for Indian fans.

Similarly, the account of Pakistani actor Sajal Aly who starred in Sridevi’s film Mom, is no longer available on Instagram India.

Similar to their accounts, Fawad Khan, Atif Aslam and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan’s accounts now display the message: “Account not available in India.”

“This is because we complied with a legal request to restrict this content,” it further adds.

No information regarding the decision has been disclosed by the platform or the government yet, amid the rising tension between India and Pakistan.

Instagram accounts of Pakistani artists not banned in India

However, Pakistani actress Mawra Hocane’s Instagram account is still available for her fans in India.

Mawra is best known for her performance in the 2016 film, Sanam Teri Kasam alongside Harshvardhan Rane.

Instagram accounts of other Pakistani artists including Adnan Siddiqui (starred in Sridevi’s Mom), Humaima Malick (starred in Emran Hashmi’s Raja Natwarlal), Meesha Shafi (starred in Farhan Akhtar’s Bhaag Milkha Bhaag), Shafqat Amanat Ali ( best known for Bollywood songs like Mitwa from Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna, Bin Tere from I Hate Luv Storys) and Qurat-ul-Ain Balouch (known for Kaari Kaari from Pink) are still visible in India.

Source : https://www.livemint.com/entertainment/fawad-khan-atif-aslam-rahat-fateh-ali-khan-pakistani-artists-instagram-accounts-blocked-in-india-abir-gulaal-11746187294447.html

AR Rahman Mumbai Concert: ‘Wonderment’ Global Tour Kicks Off With Spectacular 30-Year Celebration

The show marks a monumental celebration of Rahman’s 30-year journey in the film and music industry and is being hailed as his most ambitious production to date.

AR Rahman Mumbai Concert: ‘Wonderment’ Global Tour Kicks Off With Spectacular 30-Year Celebration | ANI Image

Music maestro A.R. Rahman’s much-awaited musical extravaganza, Wonderment – The Tour, is all set to make its global debut on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. The show marks a monumental celebration of Rahman’s 30-year journey in the film and music industry and is being hailed as his most ambitious production to date.

Far more than a traditional concert, Wonderment promises an immersive experience that seamlessly weaves music, visual storytelling, and groundbreaking stage production. Audiences can expect live renditions of Rahman’s iconic soundtracks, a fusion of Indian classical, electronic, and world music, multilingual performances in Hindi, Tamil, and English, and collaborations with acclaimed vocalists and instrumentalists from around the globe.

Adding to the allure, the premiere is expected to feature surprise acts by some of India’s most celebrated talents along with special international performances—making it a must-watch spectacle.

Music maestro A.R. Rahman’s much-awaited musical extravaganza, Wonderment – The Tour, is all set to make its global debut on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. The show marks a monumental celebration of Rahman’s 30-year journey in the film and music industry and is being hailed as his most ambitious production to date.

Far more than a traditional concert, Wonderment promises an immersive experience that seamlessly weaves music, visual storytelling, and groundbreaking stage production. Audiences can expect live renditions of Rahman’s iconic soundtracks, a fusion of Indian classical, electronic, and world music, multilingual performances in Hindi, Tamil, and English, and collaborations with acclaimed vocalists and instrumentalists from around the globe.

Adding to the allure, the premiere is expected to feature surprise acts by some of India’s most celebrated talents along with special international performances—making it a must-watch spectacle.

The show’s ticket sales have seen an overwhelming response. With prices ranging from ₹3,000 for Bronze seats to ₹60,000 for premium VVIP sofa seating, organizers have now issued a last-minute alert, stating that tickets are almost sold out. Fans are urged to book immediately through the District ticketing platform to avoid missing this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/ar-rahman-mumbai-concert-wonderment-global-tour-kicks-off-with-spectacular-30-year-celebration

 

‘No Intent Behind It’: Virat Kohli Issues Clarification After ‘Liking’ Avneet Kaur’s Photos On Instagram

Former Team India skipper Virat Kohli took to his Instagram handle on Friday to issue an official clarification after he made headlines for ‘liking’ pictures of actress Avneet Kaur posted by her fanpage online. He blamed Instagram algorithm for the ‘like’, and stated, “There was absolutely no intent behind it. I request that no unnecessary assumptions be made.”

Former Team India skipper Virat Kohli took to his Instagram handle on Friday to issue an official clarification after he made headlines for ‘liking’ pictures of actress Avneet Kaur posted by her fanpage online. He blamed Instagram algorithm for the ‘like’, and stated that there was “no intent behind it”.

Kohli took to his Instagram stories and wrote, “I’d like clarify that while clearing my feed, it appears the algorithm may have mistakenly registered an interaction. There was absolutely no intent behind it. I request that no unnecessary assumptions be made. Thank you for your understanding (sic).”

Kohli’s social media activity grabbed eyeballs after netizens spotted the cricketer’s ‘like’ on a post comprising of a slew of photos of Avneet, shared by her fan page on Instagram. It snowballed into a memefest after users noticed that he seemingly liked the pictures on wife Anushka Sharma’s birthday (May 1), hours after wishing her with a heartfelt post online.

Fans pointed out that the cricketer did not even follow Avneet on Instagram, and yet liked her photos, that too the ones that were shared by a fan page.

However, Kohli has now put an end to the chatter with his official statement.

Meanwhile, on Thursday, Kohli shared an adorable photo with Anushka on his Instagram handle and penned a loved up note for her to wish her a happy birthday. “To my best friend, my life partner, my safe space, my best half, my everything. You’re the guiding light of all of our lives. We love you so much more everyday. Happy birthday my love (sic),” he wrote, and fans couldn’t help but gush over the rare PDA.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/no-intent-behind-it-virat-kohli-issues-clarification-after-liking-avneet-kaurs-photos-on-instagram 

Anil Kapoor’s mom Nirmal Kapoor passes away: Ananya Panday gets teary-eyed; Suhana Khan, Rani Mukerji and more celebs arrive at her residence

Picture Credit: Pinkvilla

Anil Kapoor’s mother, Nirmal Kapoor, passed away peacefully at the age of 90. She had been admitted to Mumbai’s Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital a few days ago due to age-related health issues. A beloved figure in the Kapoor household, her loss has left the family and many from the film industry heartbroken.

Prominent names from the industry came by to offer condolences and stand by the grieving family. Ananya Panday, Suhana Khan, Rani Mukerji, Javed Akhtar, Jackie Shroff, Veer Pahariya, Orry, Vedang Raina, Raveena Tandon with daughter Rasha Thadani, Farah Khan, Neelam Kothari, and Salman Khan’s sister Alvira were among those seen arriving.

Interestingly, before heading to the Kapoor residence, Ananya Panday was spotted on set, supposedly holding back tears. The actress, who shares a close bond with Shanaya Kapoor, looked to be deeply affected by the news of her best friend’s grandmother’s passing.

Nirmala Kapoor’s funeral is scheduled for May 3. Earlier today, Anil Kapoor was seen arriving at his home in an ambulance with his mother’s mortal remains, accompanied by his brother Sanjay Kapoor, sister Reena Kapoor, and nephew Arjun Kapoor. Soon after, several family members, including Janhvi Kapoor, Khushi Kapoor, Shikhar Pahariya, Shanaya Kapoor, and Boney Kapoor, were also spotted at the residence.

Nirmal Kapoor was married to the late veteran producer Surinder Kapoor. She was the proud mother of four children—Anil, Reena, Boney, and Sanjay Kapoor—and grandmother to a generation of well-known Bollywood stars: Sonam Kapoor, Rhea Kapoor, Harshvardhan Kapoor, Arjun Kapoor, Anshula Kapoor, Janhvi Kapoor, Khushi Kapoor, Shanaya Kapoor, Jahaan Kapoor, and Mohit Marwah.

Just a short while ago, the family had joyfully celebrated her 90th birthday. Anil Kapoor had shared touching throwback pictures with a heartfelt note that read, “90 years of love, strength, and endless sacrifices. Your presence fills our lives with joy and positivity every day. Blessed to be your child. Happy birthday, Mummy.”

Source : https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/news/anil-kapoors-mom-nirmal-kapoor-passes-away-ananya-panday-gets-teary-eyed-suhana-khan-rani-mukerji-and-more-celebs-arrive-at-her-residence-1385657

 

‘One Of My Actresses Motivated Me’: Allu Arjun On Being First South Actor To Have Six Pack Abs & Break Taboo

“Someone motivated me to do that by saying that I don’t think any South actors can come up with six packs,” Allu Arjun recalls being the first South Indian actor to have six-pack abs. The Pushpa 2 star also gave insights into his fitness journey.

Allu Arjun recalls being the first South Indian actor to have six pack abs | Image Courtesy: X (Fan pages)

With his sculpted physique and effortless swagger, Allu Arjun has long been admired not just for his acting and dance moves but also for setting new fitness standards in Indian cinema. At the WAVES Summit 2025 held on May 1 at Mumbai’s Jio World Centre, the Pushpa 2 fame offered a rare glimpse into the discipline, challenges, and motivation behind his iconic six-pack abs.

Speaking during the session ‘Talent Beyond Borders’, Arjun opened up about how he became one of the first actors in the South to break traditional body image norms, sharing an honest and humorous backstory behind his transformation.

‘Someone motivates me… I took the personal challenge’

Reflecting on his early years in the industry, Arjun discussed how having six-pack abs was once a rarity in South Indian cinema. He shared, “Back in the day, around maybe almost 20 years back, it was something that was never done before by any other South actor. And it said that, you know, culturally, it’s not accepted, and there were many taboos around that.”

He further shared the motivation behind having six-pack abs. He stated, “I knew that it’s a great sign; if you just do it for once, it just needs one person to break the jinx, you know.”

“Someone motivated me to do that by saying that I don’t think any South actors can come up with six packs. It’s one of my actresses who I worked with in that and then I took the personal challenge, and I just did it for my people,” he concluded.

Source:

https://www.freepressjournal.in/lifestyle/one-of-my-actresses-motivated-me-allu-arjun-on-being-first-south-actor-to-have-six-pack-abs-break-taboo

Reality Show’s ‘Sex Positions’ Clip Sparks Outrage, MPs Takes Note

On March 14 last year, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (I&B) had blocked 18 OTT platforms for their “obscene, vulgar, and, in some instances, pornographic content”.

The show House Arrest is hosted by Ajaz Khan.

A viral clip from a reality show hosted on an OTT (Over The Top) platform has triggered widespread outrage on social media for its explicit content, with Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi asking why the streaming app has not yet been banned by the Centre.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Nishikant Dubey assured that action would be taken against the show.

On March 14 last year, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (I&B) had blocked 18 OTT platforms for their “obscene, vulgar, and, in some instances, pornographic content”.

Sharing the nearly two-minute clip from OTT web series ‘House Arrest’ – hosted by former Bigg Boss contestant Ajaz Khan and available on ‘ULLU’ platform – on X on Thursday, Ms Chaturvedi claimed she has repeatedly flagged the vulgar content on such apps to the government but is yet to get a response.

“I have raised this in the standing committee that apps such as this, namely, Ullu App and Alt Balaji have managed to escape the ban by I&B ministry on apps for obscene content. I am still awaiting their reply,” the Rajya Sabha MP said.

In a separate post, Ms Chaturvedi listed the 18 apps that were banned by the Centre last year. “The apps blocked by the government were primarily platforms distributing explicit material. The following 18 apps were banned… Surprisingly 2 of the biggest apps were kept out- Ullu and Alt Balaji, will I&B tell the country why were they left out from this ban?” she said.

In the clip, Mr Khan is seen asking a contestant about various Kama Sutra sex positions during his reality show. He then asks another set of contestants to demonstrate the positions.

Ms Chaturvedi’s remarks came days after the Supreme Court, on April 28, issued notices to the Centre, OTT and social media platforms on a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking direction to take appropriate steps to prohibit the streaming of obscene content.

A bench of Justices BR Gavai and AG Masih said the issue was of “important concern” and sought a response from Netflix, Amazon Prime, Alt Balaji, ULLU, X, Meta Inc, Google, Mubi, Apple and others on the PIL seeking regulation of obscene content on OTT platforms and social media.

‘This will not work’: BJP MP

BJP MP Dubey also took note of the clip and assured that such content will not be allowed.

“This will not work @MIB_India, our committee will take action on this,” he said in a post on X in Hindi, as he tagged the I&B Ministry.

BJP Yuva Morcha Bihar chief Barun Raj Singh also demanded that such shows be taken off air. “They talk about on camera sex position (sic). All this is shown on TV and The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting sleeps with its eyes closed. Such shows should be stopped immediately,” he wrote on X.

He also asked I&B Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to “save our children”.

Criticism on social media

The video evoked sharp criticism from social media users.

“Damn, how low the TV shows have stopped (sic) to,” an X user said.

“What… is this? It’s neither funny, nor entertaining and not even porn. Something is weirdly wrong with producers and directors nowadays where crass is seen as desirable,” another said.

Source: https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/reality-show-house-arrest-sex-positions-clip-sparks-outrage-mp-takes-note-bigg-boss-contestant-ajaz-khan-ullu-app-8306561#pfrom=home-ndtv_topscroll

 

Sometimes people have to be told they can’t take liberty: Javed Akhtar on responding to social media trolls

Akhtar, who took over the IPRS in 2017, said the copyright body needs government support so that artists receive their fair share of public performance royalty.

Javed Akhtar. Credit: PTI Photo

As someone who often schools faceless people on social media for their communal and hateful remarks, veteran screenwriter-poet Javed Akhtar says trolls should know they can also be subjected to the same treatment when the need arises.

Whether it’s supporting Indian cricketer Mohd Shami during the recent ‘roza’ row, getting back at trolls who targeted him for praising Virat Kohli or condemning the Pahalgam terror attack in strong words, the lyricist is known for openly voicing his opinions on X.

Asked whether his family asks him to steer clear of social media trolls, Akhtar told PTI: “Yes, absolutely. Even my friends say ‘let it be. Why do you want to get into it? You are above all these things’. Forgive me for my immodesty, I mostly feel above these (trolls) but sometimes you have to come down and tell them that, ‘No, you can’t take this liberty, and if you will, I’ll pay you back in the same coins.” The 80-year-old writer, who also serves as the chairperson of the Indian Performing Right Society (IPRS), was speaking on the sidelines of the “IP and Music: Feel the beat of IP” conference organised by FICCI on Tuesday here.

Akhtar, who took over the IPRS in 2017, said the copyright body needs government support so that artists receive their fair share of public performance royalty.

“If there are few lakh people who are not paying us public performance royalty, we can’t have a few lakh cases in courts, it is not possible. It is only the government which can put pressure by making some kind of a rule or a sub-rule to make it mandatory to pay.

“Whenever I have contacted any political party or ministry, they have been extremely sympathetic about the cause. They have respect for Indian artists, they have often gone out of the way to help us. I have no such problems. What we have to do now is to go again (to the authorities) and tell them what is wrong. You have made a fantastic law, but it is not working on the ground,” he said.

“Sholay” and “Deewar”, which he co-wrote with Salim Khan, are celebrating their 50th release anniversary. Asked what was the reason behind the enduring relevance of these films, the writer said it’s impossible to predict how a movie is going to connect with people while writing it.

“Kuch achhe kaam hote hain jo reh jaate hain public memory mein (there are a few good works that remain etched in public memory). And the films you’re talking about they have somehow (have stayed in public memory)… Why, I don’t know. If I knew, I would’ve done it again and again. They have become a part of the Indian psyche, culture, and common language.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/entertainment/sometimes-people-have-to-be-told-they-cant-take-liberty-javed-akhtar-on-responding-to-social-media-trolls-3518387

‘Only 700 People? I Won’t Perform’: Australian Event Planners Claim Neha Kakkar LIED About Melbourne Concert Delay, Not Getting Paid

Singer Neha Kakkar was caught in the middle of a major controversy in March this year after she arrived three hours late at a concert in Melbourne and accused the organisers of conning her. Two Australian event planners have now stated that the singer was lying and that it was she who refused to perform, as there was an audience of only 700 at the venue.

Singer Neha Kakkar was caught in the middle of a major controversy in March this year after she arrived three hours late at a concert in Melbourne, broke down on stage, and later revealed that she was scammed and not paid for the event. However, two Australian event planners have now gone on record and have stated that the singer was lying and that it was she who refused to perform as there was an audience of only 700 at the venue.

Speaking to Siddharth Kannan, Australia rapper and event host Pace D said, “I spoke to the organiser. That’s when I found out that she didn’t arrive on time and there were multiple delays. He told me that she kept saying things like, ‘I won’t go now, I won’t do this’.”

Pace D added that looking at the crowd, Neha told the organisers, “Only 700 people? Until more people come in and this place fills up, I’m not going to perform,” causing further delay.

Pace D and Bikram Singh Randhawa also reacted to Neha’s allegations against the event organisers that they did not provide her with basic amenities like hotel, food and water, and that they “ran away” with her money. “Where was she staying if there was no hotel? She was traveling in a G Wagon. Even before the artiste flies to Australia, they are fully paid. 100 percent, she was paid in advance, this is something very basic in Australia,” they said.

On March 23, Neha was set to perform in Melbourne. However, she turned up almost three hours late, and later broke down in tears on stage, thanking the audience for waiting for her. As netizens slammed her and called her unprofessional, she issued a statement saying that she was conned by the event managers.

“Do you know that I performed for absolutely free for my Melbourne audience? The organisers ran away with my money and others too. My band was not even given food, hotel, and even water,” a part of her statement read.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/only-700-people-i-wont-perform-australian-event-planners-claim-neha-kakkar-lied-about-melbourne-concert-delay-not-getting-paid

 

Mouni Roy LASHES Out At British Airline For Being ‘Treated Horribly’, Actress Asks ‘Is This Racism?’ – READ TO KNOW

Actor Mouni Roy has strongly criticized British Airways for what she described as a distressing and humiliating experience at Heathrow Airport. Taking to Instagram, the actress shared her ordeal, alleging poor treatment by the airline’s ground staff that left her in tears and questioning whether she had been subjected to racial discrimination.

In her Instagram story, Mouni wrote, “@british_airways this is to let you know my experience with your ground staff at Heathrow was HORRIBLE.” She revealed that despite holding a business class ticket, she was mistreated and left helpless during the boarding process. “Had to beg & cry to board my flight,” she said, expressing her disbelief and emotional distress.

Mouni further elaborated that she was yelled at, made to wait without explanation, and denied basic assistance. She questioned the behavior of the airline staff and wondered aloud whether her experience was influenced by racial bias. “Is this racism?” she asked, highlighting how the incident made her feel powerless and targeted.

Known for her work in both television and film, Mouni mentioned that she has flown numerous times but never encountered such insensitivity. “You should be ashamed of the apathy your ground staff represents,” she added, calling out British Airways directly and tagging their official account.

Her account of the incident quickly gained traction, with fans and followers showing support and urging the airline to issue a statement. Several social media users echoed her concerns, while others demanded an explanation from British Airways.

Source : https://www.spotboye.com/trending/trending-news/mouni-roy-lashes-out-at-british-airline-for-being-treated-horribly-actress-asks-is-this-racism-read-to-know/6810ab9198e7b5da75cc7892

Kesari 2 Plagiarism Controversy: Poet Yahya Bootwala Announces Amicable Resolution With Producers; Shares Update

Kesari Chapter 2 faced a plagiarism controversy when poet Yahya Bootwala accused the makers of copying lines from his poem about Jallianwala Bagh. However, Bootwala later announced on Instagram that the issue was resolved amicably between both parties.

Kesari 2 Plagiarism Controversy: Poet Yahya Bootwala Announces Amicable Resolution With Producers; Shares Update (Credit: Instagram)

A few days after the release of Kesari Chapter 2, the film got embroiled in a plagiarism controversy. Starring Akshay Kumar, R Madhavan and Ananya Panday in lead roles, YouTuber and poet Yahya Bootwala has accused the film’s makers of copying lines from his original poem about Jallianwala Bagh without permission. Now, he has revealed that the problem is solved.

Taking to his Instagram handle, Yahya updated his fans that the controversy is resolved now. He wrote, “So dosto, the producers and I have managed to amicably solve the issue in the best interest of both parties. Thank you guys for your support in these 2 days, you guys have been very kind.”

Earlier, Bootwala posted a video comparing his poem performance with a scene from the film where Ananya Panday says very similar lines. In his Instagram post, he also called out the film’s dialogue writer, Sumit Saxena, accusing him of stealing his work.

He wrote, “So @nisoooooooooorg sent me a clip 4 days back from the movie Kesari 2 of dialogues he felt were copied from my poem, titled Jallianwala Bagh, published 5 years ago on @unerasepoetry YouTube channel. Here are the two clips and honestly, this is a clear copy-paste and it’s not like they’ve tried to hide it as well, matlab phusphusana jaisa shabd bhi uthaya hai (They have even lifted words like phusphasana). As writers, the worst thing you can do to a fellow writer is pick their material up, blatantly use it without giving credits, and this is what I feel dialogue writer @sumit.saxena.35912 has done here.”

Source : https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/bollywood/kesari-2-plagiarism-controversy-poet-yahya-bootwala-announces-amicable-resolution-with-producers-shares-update-article-151512023

Ajay Devgn’s father asked me to drink own urine to speed up recovery: Paresh Rawal

Actor Paresh Rawal shared a surprising remedy he followed for an injury recovery – consuming his own urine. This revelation was made during a conversation with Lallantop, a sister channel of India Today.

Paresh Rawal said how he healed by drinking his own urine. [Photo: Lallantop]
Actor Paresh Rawal recently shared an unusual remedy he followed to recover from an injury — drinking his own urine. He recounted the entire incident during a conversation with India Today’s sister channel, Lallantop.

Paresh Rawal recalled being admitted to Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital in Mumbai following an injury. During his hospital stay, Veeru Devgan, father of actor Ajay Devgn, visited him and offered some unconventional advice. The former suggested consuming the first urine of the day to aid in a speedy recovery. He also recommended avoiding alcohol, red meat, and smoking during the healing process.

“I had decided if I had to drink my own urine I’ll not have it at one go, I’ll sip it like beer. Because I want to do it properly,” Paresh Rawal said.

“I did this for 15 days. 15 days later when the doctor took my X-ray, he was shocked. The doctor asked me, ‘How did this cementing happen?’ He could see a white line forming. I was supposed to be discharged in 2-2.5 months, but I was discharged in 1.5 months. It was like magic,” the ‘Hera Pheri’ actor concluded.

Source : https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/celebrities/story/ajay-devgns-father-asked-me-to-drink-own-urine-to-speed-up-recovery-paresh-rawal-2715944-2025-04-27

Vikrant Massey to play Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in ‘White,’ a global thriller from Siddharth Anand & Mahaveer Jain

‘White’ will be directed by noted ad filmmaker Montoo Bassi and co-produced by Peacecraft Pictures, alongside the powerhouse duo of Siddharth Anand and Mahaveer Jain.

Vikrant Massey with Siddharth Anand and Mahaveer Jain. Credit: Special Arrangement

The acclaimed filmmaker behind PathaanWar, and Fighter, Siddharth Anand, has joined hands with producer Mahaveer Jain to bring one of their ambitious projects, White, to life as part of an international production under Marflix Pictures and Mahaveer Jain Films.

White, a high-octane global thriller, will feature 12th Fail star Vikrant Massey essaying the role of the spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.

The pre-production for the project is currently in full swing in Colombia, and the movie is scheduled to go on floors in July. The movie will feature a distinguished international team to showcase the powerful, untold story of Colombia’s 52-year civil war and its eventual resolution—an inspiring chapter in modern peace-building.

The buzz surrounding Vikrant Massey’s participation grew when the actor was seen with longer hair and was seen undergoing physical transformations, suggesting he was preparing for a role that required deep spiritual depth.

Massey, known for his critically praised performances in 12th Fail and The Sabarmati Report, continues to wow audiences with his remarkable ability to undergo dramatic transformations.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/entertainment/vikrant-massey-to-play-sri-sri-ravi-shankar-in-white-a-global-thriller-from-siddharth-anand-mahaveer-jain-3510255

Ground Zero Movie Review: Emraan Hashmi Leads A Gritty Military Drama Into Chilling Kashmir Valleys

Emraan Hashmi steps into the shoes of Narendra Nath Dhar Dubey, a BSF officer, who led a critical operation to capture Ghazi Baba, in Tejas Deoskar’s Ground Zero. The film arrives in theatres today. If military dramas are your favourites, do read our review of Ground Zero.

​Ground Zero Movie Review

About ​Ground Zero
Kashmir, the breathtaking valley that has cries of millions hidden beneath its blanket of pristine snow and Dal Lake water, has witnessed brutal terrorist activities. The silence, once a symbol of peace, has become synonymous with fear. Call it a coincidence or a fearful reminder that the tension still exists, Tejas Deoskar’s Ground Zero celebrates the bravery of Narendra Nath Dhar Dubey, a BSF officer, who led a critical operation to capture Ghazi Baba, the mastermind behind countless ruthless attacks, including Akshardham. Headlined by Emraan Hashmi, the biopic releases in theatres today.
Ground Zero Movie Review: Plot
Narendra Nath Dhar Dubey (Emraan Hashmi) is the ‘best officer’ of the Border Security Force (BSF). Along with his team, he has to track down terrorists and bust their gangs to keep the country safe. Tragedy hits home when the security guard responsible for protecting the army children and their bus is shot dead right outside the school. Naren has to step forward and identify the militants/terrorists. While he’s on the battlefield, his wife (Sai Tamhankar) holds the fort at home and stands strong like a pillar. More than duty, the mission to find Ghazi Baba, the mastermind behind the attacks, becomes a personal commitment.

Ground Zero Movie Review: What works
Ground Zero begins with a picturesque shot of the Kashmir we dream of: a steady flowing stream, boats cutting through silent waters and a slow, peaceful morning. We’re introduced to a group of young boys who are hired to shoot ‘faujis’. On the other hand, Narendra rescues a lad amid a tense firing between the army and an unidentified shooter. Ground Zero starts well. The direction is tight, engaging and prompt enough to hold attention. The constant activity on the screen translates urgency correctly. Director Tejas Deoskar knows the art of building tension. When the film is in action, it is at its peak. Bullets cut through eerie silences. It works brilliantly. The ‘naya Hindustan ghar mein ghuske maarega’ sentiment that Vicky Kaushal’s Uri – The Surgical Strike sparked is still ignited. The drama takes centre stage only when Narendra and the young Kashmiri boy, Hussain, bond over redemption, compassion and family. To see an officer share such a genuine, selfless bond with a potential threat is progressively thoughtful and flawlessly depicted. Ground Zero could have attained more had it been braver, sharper and edgier. The background score adds to the haunting scenarios in Kashmir.

Ground Zero Movie Review: What doesn’t work
Ground Zero falters on its ambitions. Films like Uri, Baby and recently, The Diplomat were wittier, sharper and crisper in terms of the communication. After a well-woven opening sequence, it falls flat until another chase wakes the senses up. The film is not concerned about giving the antagonist a strong core to match the protagonist’s level. The conflict is weak. Characters are ineffective, and some are even too insignificant to feel pain and grief. Ground Zero follows a straight tone, without exploring subplots. Intermittently engaging, it narrowly missed the mark that could have made it a spellbinding watch.

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/reviews/ground-zero-movie-review-review-151489288

Delhi High Court Orders AR Rahman To Pay Rs 2 Crore In Copyright Dispute Over Veera Raja Veera Song; Details Inside

The Delhi High Court ruled in favour of Ustad Faiyaz Wasifuddin Dagar, stating AR Rahman’s song Veera Raja Veera closely resembles Dagar’s Shiva Stuti. Rahman and Madras Talkies were ordered to pay Rs 2 crore and update the song credits. Read on!

Delhi High Court Orders AR Rahman To Pay Rs 2 Crore In Copyright Dispute Over Veera Raja Veera Song; Details Inside (Credit: IMDb)

On April 26, the Delhi High Court passed an interim order against Oscar-winning music director AR Rahman in a suit filed by renowned classical vocalist Ustad Faiyaz Wasifuddin Dagar. The case revolves around the popular track Veera Raja Veera from the Tamil film Ponniyin Selvan 2, which Dagar alleges was copied from Shiva Stuti, a composition by his late father and uncle.
Delhi HC gives verdict on AR Rahman-Dagar case
Justice Prathiba M Singh, presiding over the case, observed that the impugned song is “exactly identical” to Shiva Stuti, barring minor lyrical modifications. The court concluded that the song’s musical structure, rhythm, and beat bore a striking resemblance to the original, thus qualifying as copyright infringement.
The court has directed AR Rahman and the film’s production house, Madras Talkies, to deposit Rs 2 crore with the court registry. Additionally, they are required to pay Rs 2 lakh in costs to the Dagar family.

Furthermore, the court ordered that the song’s credits be corrected across all platforms, including OTT and digital media. The court also stated, “In place of the existing slide, a new slide will be made on all OTTs and online platforms in respect of the impugned song affecting the credits,” the high court said. The new one would say, “composition based on Shiva Stuti by late Ustad N Faiyazuddin Dagar and late Ustad Zahiruddin Dagar.”
Justice Singh also emphasised the importance of protecting Indian classical compositions under the Copyright Act. “So long as the composition in the Hindustani classical music is an original work of the composer, the same would be entitled to protection under the Copyright Act. The composer would also be entitled to exercise all rights under the rights,” she said.

Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/tamil/delhi-high-court-orders-ar-rahman-to-pay-rs-2-crore-in-copyright-dispute-over-veera-raja-veera-song-details-inside-article-151496718

Court reserves order on Jacqueline Fernandez’s plea challenging money laundering case

Jacqueline Fernandez’s advocate said that the ED’s case hinges on her awareness of Sukesh Chandrashekhar’s criminal background, as reported in an article.

Jacqueline Fernandez filed a petition seeking the quashing of the ECIR and the supplementary chargesheet filed by the ED in connection with the ₹200 crore money laundering case.(Instagram/@jacquelinef143)

The Delhi High Court on Thursday reserved the order on actor Jacqueline Fernandez’s petition challenging the Enforcement Directorate’s complaint under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The case revolves around allegations of her receiving lavish gifts from conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar.

The bench of Justice Anish Dayal reserved its decision after hearing extensively from both sides. Senior Advocate Sidharth Aggarwal represented Jacqueline, while Special Counsel Zoheb Hossain appeared on behalf of the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

During arguments, Aggarwal contended that if the ED claims that money was distributed among 15 individuals, then by that logic, everyone involved—whether a grocery vendor, court officials, or lawyers—could be deemed guilty of money laundering. He questioned the premise that any financial transaction involving a criminal automatically constitutes money laundering, suggesting that such an interpretation would create undue fear.

Aggarwal further argued that the ED’s case hinges on Jacqueline’s awareness of Sukesh Chandrashekhar’s criminal background, as reported in a 2021 newspaper article. He asserted that merely being a celebrity does not imply prior knowledge of tainted funds. “Businessmen often have multiple cases against them,” he stated, adding that Jacqueline was introduced to Sukesh as a business tycoon. “Today, I am paying the price of being a celebrity,” Aggarwal concluded.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) argued that its investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, is separate and distinct from police investigations into scheduled offences. It emphasised that individuals accused of money laundering may differ from those charged in the predicate offence, given the distinct nature of the crime.

Previously, ED had opposed Jacqueline’s plea, submitting that she continued to receive Sukesh’s gifts despite being aware of his criminal antecedents. Perjury to quash the case in an attempt to stall proceedings.

Senior Advocate Siddharth Aggarwal and Advocate Prashant Patil for Jacqueline had submitted that being in the public eye and being labelled as a money launderer is problematic. My prayer is not to quash the complaint completely, it’s only qua the present applicant (Jacqueline). Sukesh is sitting in jail and carrying out extortion and fraud from there. EOW comes to me, records my statement, and finds that what I have to say is relevant to their investigation. ED has filed four complaints, but the investigation is still going on, and the trial cannot start, said Sr Adv Siddharth Aggarwal.

Jacqueline has filed a petition seeking the quashing of the ECIR (equivalent to an FIR) and the supplementary chargesheet filed by the ED in connection with the ₹200 crore money laundering case.

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/court-reserves-order-on-jacqueline-fernandezs-plea-challenging-money-laundering-case-101745543600231.html

 

Pak Actor Fawad Khan’s Film ‘Abir Gulaal’ Won’t Release In India: Sources

Bollywood movie ‘Abir Gulaal’, starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan, won’t release in India, sources in the Centre’s Information and Broadcasting Ministry have said. The decision comes amid the nationwide outrage over the heinous terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, in which 25 tourists and a Kashmiri were shot dead in cold blood.

The film, which also stars Vaani Kapoor, was to hit the theatres on May 9. Produced by Vivek B Agrawal and directed by Aarti S Bagdi, ‘Abir Gulaal’ ran into trouble earlier this month when the Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena opposed its release in India, citing poor relations between New Delhi and Islamabad. This opposition against the Fawad Khan-starrer became louder in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack. Click here for Kashmir terror attack live updates.

According to sources in the Information and Broadcasting ministry, several cinema halls were not ready to screen the movie and several entertainment organisations had demanded its boycott. Now the ministry has also decided to deny permission to its release, the sources have said.

Earlier today, the popular actor said he was “deeply saddened” to hear the news of the “heinous attack”. The actor said in an Instagram story, “Deeply saddened to hear the news of the heinous attack in Pahalgam. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this horrifying incident, and we pray for strength and healing for their families in this difficult time.”

Earlier, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees, an organisation of movie artists, pushed for the movie’s boycott. The organisation had called for boycotting Pakistani artists, singers and technicians in the Indian film industry after the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, which claimed the lives of 35 paramilitary personnel.

Following the Pahalgam attack, this organisation renewed its directive. “Despite the ongoing directive, we’ve been made aware of the recent collaboration with Pakistani actor Fawad Khan for the Hindi film, ‘Abir Gulaal’. In light of the recent attack in Pahalgam, FWICE is once again compelled to issue a blanket boycott on all Pakistani artists, singers and technicians participating in any Indian film or entertainment projects. This includes performances or collaborations occurring anywhere in the world,” the organisation said in a statement.

The Federation of Western India Cine Employees is an umbrella organisation of 32 different bodies of workers and technicians in the Indian film industry, with more than five lakh members.

“We would like to emphasise that any member of our organisation or it’s affiliate associations, such as the actors, directors, other technicians and producers or the production houses found cooperating with Pakistani personnel will be subject to disciplinary action. Further, we will take all necessary steps to ensure that ‘Abir Gulaal’ is not released in India,” the note said.

As the bodies of those killed in the chilling terror attack on Tuesday reached their homes, a hashtag #boycottAbirGulaal started trending.

Earlier this month, the Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena said they won’t let the film release. Party leader Ameya Khopkar said, “We have been protesting against this film, against Pakistani artists and Pakistani films. And we will continue to do so. No film will be released here featuring Pakistani artists. And there is no need to release it. I just want to say, show the courage to release it. I challenge you to release it.”

Pakistani artists, once celebrated for their work in Hindi films, have faced resistance within India whenever relations between the neighbouring countries have nosedived due to acts of terror.

Source : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/pak-actor-fawad-khans-film-abir-gulaal-wont-release-in-india-sources-8243829

Saif Ali Khan says ‘It wasn’t my time to go’ as he talks about stabbing incident: ‘Maybe I’m meant to…’

Saif Ali Khan recently opened up about his stabbing incident. The actor stated that it wasn’t his time to go and maybe he was meant to do a few more good films. Read on.

PC: Kareena Kapoor Khan on Instagram

The year didn’t start on a very happy note for Saif Ali Khan and his family. In a robbery attempt at his Bandra home on January 16, 2025, the actor had a grave encounter with the intruder, which left him injured. In a recent interview, the actor stated that it wasn’t his time to go, and maybe he’s meant to do a few more good films. Read on!

After being attacked multiple times at his home, the bleeding actor was rushed to Mumbai’s Lilavati Hospital, where he underwent two surgeries. He then spent a couple of days recovering from the injuries and returned home on January 21, 2025. Now, in an interview with ETimes, the Omkara actor reacted to the tragic incident.

He told the publication, “It wasn’t my time to go. Maybe I’m meant to do a few more good films, have some more nice times with family and friends. Do some more charity!” The Hum Tum star also spoke about the heightened security post the traumatic incident. Sharing the takeaway, he expressed that one must lock doors and be careful.

Counting his blessings, Khan stated that while he is grateful, they must understand the importance of being safe and should be careful. The ideal thing would be to lock things, block access points, and smarten up security. Despite being one of the most loved actors with scores of fans, the Dil Chahta Hai star doesn’t roam around with security.

But after the incident, he is forced to do that. Speaking his mind, the superstar stated that it’s a sad situation for him because he never believed in security. Moreover, he hates to have people around him. But now it needs to be there, for a while at least. “Just make sure you’re damn good. Work hard and hopefully the world will appreciate it,” the Bunty Aur Babli 2 actor concluded.

Source : https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/news/saif-ali-khan-says-it-wasnt-my-time-to-go-as-he-talks-about-stabbing-incident-maybe-im-meant-to-1384102

Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah actor Lalit Manchanda dies by suicide in Meerut

TV actor Lalit Manchanda was reportedly found dead in his Meerut home on Monday. CINTAA confirmed the news of his death.

Lalit Manchanda has reportedly played supporting roles in several TV shows and films.

Actor Lalit Manchanda, who played key roles in TV shows like Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah and Crime Patrol, was found dead at his house in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, on Monday. A News18 report states that the police have confirmed his cause of death as suicide.

Lalit Manchanda found dead by suicide

The report states that Lalit was found dead at his home on April 21. Local law enforcement responded promptly after receiving a report about the incident. His body was reportedly found hanging. After being taken into custody, his body was transferred to a local facility for postmortem examination. No suicide note was found at the scene. And preliminary findings suggested there was no evidence of foul play or third-party involvement.

Police have reportedly begun speaking to Lalit’s family and close friends as part of the investigation. They are also examining the circumstances surrounding the death. With no suicide note found, the police are looking into mental health and recent events in Lalit’s life, the report states. Those close to him have reportedly claimed that Lalit was dealing with mental stress and personal challenges in the last few months. Further details are awaited.

On Tuesday, the official Instagram account of CINTAA shared a post confirming Lalit’s death: “CINTAA expresses its condolences on the demise of Lalit Manchanda (member since 2012).”

Source : https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/tv/taarak-mehta-ka-ooltah-chashmah-actor-lalit-manchanda-dies-by-suicide-in-meerut-101745327984752.html

CID 2: ACP Pradyuman Aka Shivaji Satam Is Back; Parth Samthaan Shares A BTS From The Shoot

Parth Samthaan on his Instagram story shared a BTS video from the sets of CID 2, and he is seen shooting with none other than ACP Pradyuman aka Shivaji Satam. This makes us wonder whether ACP Pradyuman is coming in the show. For the uninitiated, the character was shown dead in one of the previous episodes.

CID season 2 started airing on Sony TV from December 2024, and later, the show also premiered on Netflix. Well, in one of the episodes, it was shown that ACP Pradyuman’s character has passed away. Veteran actor Shivaji Satam has been playing the role since 1998, and recently, when his character died, his fans were quite upset. The makers roped in Parth Samthaan to play the new ACP, however, it looks like ACP Pradyuman is all set to make a comeback in the show. Parth on Saturday shared a BTS from the sets of CID and in the video, he is seen shooting with Shivaji.

The actor wrote, “Shooting with ACP Pradyuman Aka Shivaji Satam was a delight and full of entertainment. Gem of a guy.” Now, this BTS video has surely left the audience excited to know whether ACP Pradyuman is coming back or not.

Parth Samthaan as ACP Ayushman In CID 2

Initially, there were reports that Parth will be replacing Shivaji Satam as ACP Pradyuman. But, of course, that did happen and the actor was introduced as ACP Ayushman.

Parth had posted a promo of the show on his Instagram, and he had shared a long note. The actor wrote, “Introducing ACP Ayushman in the most Iconic, loved and longest running show – CID !!! This show has always been an integral part of our childhood and Indian Television ! The all time famous dialogues as well as the officers becoming veterans or rather Legends (ACP pradyuman , Daya & Abhijeet ) , this show has seen it all and to be a part is truly a blessing for me (sic).”

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/cid-2-acp-pradyuman-aka-shivaji-satam-is-back-parth-samthaan-shares-a-bts-from-the-shoot 

Asim Riaz Issues FIRST Statement After Being Thrown Out Of Battleground: I Move When I Decide

Asim Riaz has finally issued his first statement after allegedly being thrown out of a reality show, Battleground. He slammed media for negative articles against him. Read full story to know more

Asim Riaz Issues FIRST Statement After Being Thrown Out Of Battleground: I Move When I Decide. (Credit: Instagram)

Asim Riaz has been making headlines due to his anger issues on the reality shows. On April 17, 2025, the actor-model was thrown out of Battleground after his alleged arguments with Abhishek Malhan and Rubina Dilaik. Since then, the netizens have been getting curious to know what has happened on the set. Amidst all, Asim Riaz has finally broken his silence on the matter and issued his first statement on X.

Asim Riaz’s statement on Battleground controversy

Asim Riaz took to X and slammed the media portal for mentioning that he was kicked out of the show. In fact, Asim feels that he believes in living life on his own terms and flipped the game on Battleground with his actions.
In the note, Asim Riaz said, “Paid media ain’t got a spine, just a rate card. They print what they’re told, I move when I decide. Keep shouting ‘kicked out’ , i kicked the script and flipped the game. Next headline? Make it count.” (sic)
It looks like Asim Riaz is still living in the bubble of his anger. His fans have been supporting him on social media. However, a few netizens are stating that he has lost a lot of work due to his anger issues.
One user wrote, “Bro lost good work,lost her, got replaced by him, lost lots of good things in life but still never accepted his mistake. Guess what the show will still air tomorrow, people will watch it, get their bank accounts filled meanwhile you can pump yourself.”

Chef Vikas Khanna Defends Gauri Khan’s Mumbai Restaurant Torii After Influencer Claims They Serve ‘Fake’ Paneer

Chef and Masterchef India judge Vikas Khanna supported Shah Rukh Khan’s wife Gauri Khan restaurant Torii, Mumbai, days after an influencer claimed that they serve ‘fake’ paneer.

For those unversed, influencer Sarthak Sachdeva is seen performing an iodine tincture test, often used to detect starch adulteration, on a piece of paneer from Torii. When the iodine touched the paneer, it turned blue-black, prompting Sarthak to declare it ‘fake.’

He also tested paneer from other celebrity-owned restaurants, including those by Bobby Deol, Shilpa Shetty, and cricketer Virat Kohli. In those tests, the paneer did not change colour, suggesting no starch presence.

Vikas Khanna defends Gauri’s restaurant

On Friday (April 18), Vikas took to his Instagram story to criticise the influencer. He wrote, “I’ve been cooking & working with the science of food for the past several decades. I’ve never seen such terrible misinformation like YouTuber who claims to be a food scientist.”

The chef added, “IODINE changes color with reaction under presence of ingredients: Potatoes, Rice, Bread, Cornstarch, Flour, Unripe bananas. The use of these ingredients (thus reaction) could also happen in cross-contamination. It’s scary that unqualified people are taken seriously.”

Soon after the influencer’s video went viral a few days back, Torii’s official Instagram account clarified, “The iodine test reflects the presence of starch, not the authenticity of the paneer. As the dish contains soy-based ingredients, this reaction is expected. We stand by the purity of our paneer and the integrity of our ingredients at Torii.”

While Torii addressed the controversy with a technical explanation, Gauri Khan, the face behind the premium restaurant, has not yet publicly responded to the claims.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/chef-vikas-khanna-defends-gauri-khans-mumbai-restaurant-torii-after-influencer-claims-they-serve-fake-paneer

Symbolic moment: Actor Emraan Hashmi on Srinagar premiere of ‘Ground Zero’

Directed by Tejas Deoskar, ‘Ground Zero’ is produced by Excel Entertainment of Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani.

Bollywood actor Emraan Hashmi during special premiere of upcoming movie ‘Ground Zero’ at the roof of a houseboat, in Srinagar Credit: PTI Photo

Actor Emraan Hashmi, whose film Ground Zero became the first to have its red-carpet premiere in Srinagar in 38 years on Friday, described the moment as “important and symbolic”.

Hashmi arrived in the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday, ahead of the premiere.

“I feel happy to come back to Srinagar. It feels very nice. The weather is good here, it is better than Mumbai,” the actor told reporters.

“It is a very important and symbolic moment for the people here, for this region. The people here are very good and talented, but they need a medium, that avenue in films and television to explore their creativity in any stream,” he said.

Directed by Tejas Deoskar, Ground Zero is produced by Excel Entertainment of Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani.

The action thriller chronicles the story of Border Security Force (BSF) officer Narendra Nath Dhar Dubey, who led an operation to track the mastermind behind the terror attacks on Parliament in 2001 and the Akshardham temple in Gujarat’s Gandhinagar in September 2002.

“#Groundzero touchdown landmark day: first red carpet movie screening after 38 years in #Srinagar, this is a special movie screening to honour BSF soldiers and their officers,” Hashmi said in a post on X after arriving in Srinagar along with Deoskar.

Talking to reporters at the screening of the film, the actor said the plot of “Ground Zero” revolves around a very important mission to wipe out terror group Jaish-e-Mohammad and eliminate Ghazi Baba, the mastermind of the two attacks. The officer had started planning for the operation in 2001 and it was accomplished in 2003.

Hashmi said local talent was hired for the shooting of the film.

“There is a lot of talent here. A number of local actors were hired for the film. Their contribution to the film was important,” he said.

Asked how different was portraying the role of a BSF officer from his lover-boy image, the actor said his character in the film was very different from the roles he has played in other movies, including Tiger 3.

“It is based on a true life event and the story revolves around a BSF mission,” he added.

Source : https://www.deccanherald.com/india/symbolic-moment-actor-emraan-hashmi-on-srinagar-premiere-of-ground-zero-3500409

 

Khauf Review: Monika Panwar Anchors Khauf, A Haunting Tapestry Of Trauma, Terror And Ghosts That Never Leave

Pankaj Kumar’s Khauf features Monika Panwar, Rajat Kapoor, Abhishek Chauhan, Geetanjali Kulkarni, and Shilpa Shukla in a gripping eight-part horror series where haunted hostels, buried trauma and emotional scars collide—delivering a chilling exploration of fear, silence and survival through a richly atmospheric and psychologically intense narrative

Khauf Review: Monika Panwar Anchors Khauf, A Haunting Tapestry Of Trauma, Terror And Ghosts That Never Leave |

Title: Khauf

Director: Pankaj Kumar

Cast: Monika Panwar, Rajat Kapoor, Abhishek Chauhan, Geetanjali Kulkarni, Shilpa Shukla

Where: Streaming on Prime Video

Rating: 3.5 Stars

There’s something oddly comforting about horror when done right—it taps your shoulder, whispers in your ear, and reminds you that real monsters often wear familiar faces. Khauf, the eight-episode horror series that takes its name from the Hindi word for “fear,” delivers more than just the paranormal: it unearths trauma, loneliness, and the unrelenting grip of memory, all with a visual panache that’s both seductive and sinister.

Loneliness here is not worn like a costume; it’s stitched into the characters’ skin. It makes the horror stick—because long before the ghosts come knocking, the women are already haunted.

At the center of this spectral spiral is Madhuri Kiran, played with gut-wrenching restraint by Monika Panwar. A survivor of sexual abuse from Gwalior, Madhu seeks anonymity and healing in Delhi’s Pragati Working Women’s Hostel. But alas, respite proves elusive. Instead, she’s greeted with whispered warnings about Room No. 333—the numerical wink not lost on those of us attuned to genre codes. The room, predictably cursed, is also metaphorically loaded: a psychic echo chamber for every trauma that’s too polite to die.

Rajat Kapoor is deliciously unsettling as the Roohani Dawakhana–operating shaman, his Old Delhi clinic oozing with cultural texture and unease. Kapoor doesn’t just act; he glides like a man who’s seen things no sage should. Opposite him, Abhishek Chauhan as Arun, Madhu’s love interest, offers a steady, if somewhat underbaked, anchor to her unraveling world.

Chum Darang, Riya Shukla, Rashmi Zurail Mann, Asheema Vardaan, Gagan Arora, Geetanjali Kulkarni, and Shilpa Shukla infuse their roles with empathy and intrigue—especially Shukla’s Shohini, a psychiatrist who doles out cryptic wisdom like, “People have their ways to deal with trauma. It may not make sense to us, but to them, it makes perfect sense.” Indeed, the series is obsessed with the ways women carry the invisible weight of violation and loss.

What sets Khauf apart is not just its narrative, but its texture. The visual palette is moodily rich—blue-grey cityscapes, flickering lights, and shadows that stretch like secrets. The hostel is a character in its own right, suffering from what one might diagnose as “sick building syndrome” with a touch of poltergeist persuasion. The makers know their horror grammar: ouija boards, automatic mixers that thirst for blood and possessed inmates who won’t leave despite having every reason to run.

Yet for all its spine-chilling skill, the series doesn’t always stick to the landing. The initial episodes indulge in lingering shots and cinematic liberties that drain rather than build dread. Occasionally, it forgets that stillness is scarier than spectacle. But then comes the finale—a delicious gore-fest for the brave and the bloodthirsty—reminding you that this series was never meant to be subtle.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/khauf-review-monika-panwar-anchors-khauf-a-haunting-tapestry-of-trauma-terror-and-ghosts-that-never-leave

 

Gauri Khan’s Mumbai Restaurant Torii Responds After Influencer Claims They Serve ‘Fake’ Paneer (VIDEO)

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan’s wife Gauri Khan’s upscale Mumbai restaurant Torii came under scrutiny after social media influencer Sarthak Sachdeva alleged that the paneer served there is ‘fake.’ Yes, you read that right.

In a now-viral Instagram reel, the influencer is seen performing an iodine tincture test, often used to detect starch adulteration, on a piece of paneer from Torii. When the iodine touched the paneer, it turned blue-black, prompting Sarthak to declare it ‘adulterated.’

He also tested paneer from other celebrity-owned restaurants, including those by Bobby Deol, Shilpa Shetty, and cricketer Virat Kohli. In those tests, the paneer did not change colour, suggesting no starch presence.

Torii Mumbai, Gauri’s restaurant, responds

The video quickly gathered traction online, forcing a response from Torii’s official Instagram account. The restaurant clarified, “The iodine test reflects the presence of starch, not the authenticity of the paneer. As the dish contains soy-based ingredients, this reaction is expected. We stand by the purity of our paneer and the integrity of our ingredients at Torii.”

While Torii addressed the controversy with a technical explanation, Gauri Khan, the face behind the premium restaurant, has not yet publicly responded to the claims.

Source : https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/gauri-khans-mumbai-restaurant-torii-responds-after-influencer-claims-they-serve-fake-paneer-video

 

 

Vivek Agnihotri Avoids The Delhi Files’ Clash With Hrithik-Jr NTR’s War 2 On Independence Day: Film Important Hai

Vivek Agnihotri Avoids The Delhi Files’ Clash With Hrithik-Jr NTR’s War 2 On Independence Day: Film Important Hai. (Credit: Instagram)

Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri’s upcoming film, The Delhi Files, was supposed to be released on August 15, 2025 (Independence Day). However, the director has now postponed the film’s release. For the unversed, Ayan Mukerji’s War 2, starring Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR in the lead roles, is also releasing on August 15. After the film’s release date announcement, Vivek Agnihotri postponed his film, The Delhi Files and said that the film is important for him, not the date.

Vivek Agnihotri confirms change in release date of The Delhi Files

In an interview with DNA, Vivek Agnihotri confirmed that The Delhi Files won’t come out on August 15. While explaining the reason behind his decision, the filmmaker revealed that they are running behind schedule.
Vivek Agnihotri said, “Humne last year announce kar di thi 15 August ki release date, lekin jab humne film shuru ki toh humare jo production designer the, Rajat Podar, unki death ho gayi. Toh humare plan postpone ho gaya. We are running behind schedule. I’m trying… toh dekhte hai abhi kya hota hai. Lekin agar 15 August nahi bhi hui toh uske aas-pass hi hoga, bahut zyada delay nahi hoga (We had announced 15 August as the release date last year, but when we started the film, our production designer, Rajat Podar, died. So our plan got postponed. So we are running behind schedule. I’m trying… let’s see what happens now. But even if it doesn’t happen on 15 August, it will happen around that time; there won’t be much delay).”
Vivek Agnihotri further clarified that The Delhi Files will be released around August 15, 2025. The Kashmir Files fame confessed that the date is not important for him. He is ready to release the film any day.
While concluding the chat, Vivek Agnihotri said, “Humari film, film hai. Achi hai, toh kisi bhi date pe aaeyegi toh chalegi; use kuch farq nahi padta. Date is not important, film is (Our film is a film. If it is good, it will work on any date. Date is not important, film is).”

Arbaaz Khan, Sshura Khan Expecting 1st Baby 16 Months After Marriage? Couple Sparks Pregnancy Buzz After Maternity Clinic Visit In Mumbai

Sshura Khan, dressed in an oversized white shirt paired with black leggings, completed her look with sneakers and dark sunglasses. The loose-fitting attire instantly sparked curiosity, with many guessing that she might be concealing a baby bump

Bollywood actor-producer Arbaaz Khan and his wife, celebrity makeup artist Sshura Khan, have once again become the centre of speculation as fresh pregnancy rumours swirl around the couple. The buzz gained momentum after the duo was recently spotted exiting a women’s clinic in Mumbai, subtly trying to dodge the paparazzi’s lenses.

Wearing coordinated white and black outfits, Arbaaz and Sshura walked hand-in-hand, with Arbaaz gently leading the way. Despite their calm demeanour, it was clear they were hoping to keep the visit under wraps.

The paparazzi, however, had already taken position, capturing the couple discreetly from behind walls outside the clinic. A video of their outing has been shared by Pinkvilla on Instagram.

Sshura, dressed in an oversized white shirt paired with black leggings, completed her look with sneakers and dark sunglasses. The loose-fitting attire instantly sparked curiosity, with many guessing that she might be concealing a baby bump.

Interestingly, it was Sshura who first noticed the lurking cameras and quickly alerted Arbaaz. Their visible discomfort has only added fuel to the rumour mill, which has been spinning since the couple tied the knot in an intimate ceremony in December 2023.

It may be noted that whispers of a possible pregnancy began circulating in December 2024, however, they have remained tight-lipped.

Also, a report in Bollywood Shaadis stated that the couple is not expecting a baby and that they visited the clinic for some other reason.

Source: https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/arbaaz-khan-sshura-khan-expecting-1st-baby-16-months-after-marriage-couple-sparks-pregnancy-buzz-after-maternity-clinic-visit-in-mumbai 

Salman Khan Death Threat: Worli Police File FIR, Suspect Traced To Gujarat’s Vadodara

Salman Khan Death Threat: Worli Police File FIR, Suspect Traced To Gujarat’s Vadodara

A 26-year-old man from Vadodara, Gujarat, has been detained by the Worli Police in Mumbai for allegedly sending a death threat email to Bollywood superstar Salman Khan. The threatening message, sent on March 5 to Khan’s office, warned the actor to “settle matters” with gangster Lawrence Bishnoi or face serious consequences.

A senior police official stated, “The email had direct references to the Bishnoi gang and warned Salman Khan of a fate similar to the recent shooting incident outside his Bandra residence.” The message also revived fears linked to the April 2024 incident, when two men fired shots outside Khan’s Galaxy Apartment.

Mumbai Police’s cyber team immediately launched an investigation. “We traced the origin of the email through IP tracking and technical analysis, which led us to the accused in Vadodara,” said an officer from the cyber cell. The man, who was using a fake identity, was taken into custody and brought to Mumbai for further interrogation.

Police are now trying to ascertain whether the accused has any real connection with the Lawrence Bishnoi gang or if he acted alone. “As of now, it appears he may have used the gang’s name to gain notoriety or incite fear, but we are verifying every angle,” said a source close to the investigation.

Source: https://www.spotboye.com/bollywood/news/salman-khan-death-threat-worli-police-file-fir-suspect-traced-to-gujarat-s-vadodara-read-to-know/67fdd43898e7b5da75cc716c

Sharmila Tagore unimpressed by Ibrahim Ali Khan’s debut film Nadaaniyan: ‘He looks handsome, but the film is not good’

In a recent interview, Sharmila Tagore opened up about her grandchildren Sara Ali Khan and Ibrahim Ali Khan and their careers in Bollywood.

During an interaction with Anandabazar Patrika.com on YouTube, Sharmila spoke about her grandchildren Sara Ali Khan and Ibrahim Ali Khan.

Ibrahim Ali Khan’s debut project Naadaniyaan, co-starring Khushi Kapoor, received negative reviews from critics and audiences alike. The film was panned for its awkward dialogues and subpar performances. Now, Ibrahim’s grandmother and actor Sharmila Tagore has dished out honest feedback about the film, saying the project didn’t quite live up to expectations.

Sharmila Tagore on Ibrahim Ali Khan’s Bollywood debut
During an interaction with Anandabazar Patrika.com on YouTube, Sharmila spoke about her grandchildren Sara Ali Khan and Ibrahim Ali Khan, paving their way in the world of cinema.

She said, “Sara and Ibrahim are doing a wonderful job. Ibrahim’s film was not good, but he still looks very handsome. He has tried his best. These things shouldn’t really be said in front of everyone, but honestly, the picture isn’t great. Ultimately, the picture has to be good”.

Sharmila went on to praise Sara for her dedication and potential, saying, “Sara is a good actress. She works very hard and is capable of doing a lot more. She’ll also achieve that”.

In another interview, actor Soha Ali Khan, who is also Ibrahim’s aunt, was asked about what advice she would give him after being trolled. She said one needs to develop a thick skin if they want to be a part of the industry.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/sharmila-tagore-on-ibrahim-ali-khans-debut-film-nadaaniyan-he-looks-handsome-but-the-film-is-not-good-101744682380845.html

Bollywood’s Iconic Song ‘Dhoom Machale’ Goes Viral At Britain’s Westminster Abbey; Desi Fans React

Bollywood song at Britain’s Westminster Abbey garners mixed reaction from desi folks.

When the first clips of “Dhoom Machale” playing at Westminster Abbey surfaced online, many social media users dismissed them as fake. The sheer improbability of a Bollywood anthem reverberating through one of Britain’s most solemn royal venues seemed too surreal to be true. But when the Shree Muktajeevan Swamibapa Pipe Band posted the video on their official Instagram and the BBC subsequently covered it, disbelief turned into astonishment.

For some, it was an amusing moment of cultural fusion; for others, it was nothing short of history being made. Twitter exploded with reactions, with some users jokingly calling it “reverse colonisation,” while others found it simply “ICONIC.” The viral nature of the moment even sparked a wave of memes, with Queen Camilla’s pink outfit drawing uncanny comparisons to Hrithik Roshan’s look in Dhoom 2 (2006)—where, in a twist of cinematic irony, he disguises himself as the Queen while plotting a Kohinoor heist.

Heritage & modernity

Westminster Abbey, long a symbol of British heritage and royal tradition, took an unexpected step towards embracing multiculturalism with the inclusion of an Indian film song at a prestigious event. This moment underscores a shift in cultural dynamics, as Bollywood music, known for its universal appeal and vibrant energy, continues to permeate unexpected spaces. While Bollywood has previously found its way into global arenas, this performance at Westminster Abbey stands out, marking a noteworthy instance of cultural fusion that has captured the attention of audiences worldwide.

The Swaminarayan Gadi Pipe Band, which blends traditional Scottish piping with Indian musical elements, has long symbolised Indo-British harmony. Their performance of Dhoom Machale at Westminster Abbey “foregrounds popular cultural traditions” in an “understated and simple way,” ensuring greater impact than a forced display, argues Dr. Swapnil Rai from the University of Michigan and author of Networked Bollywood. However, she critiques that the Bollywood connection “should have been highlighted more, and not stayed as something for Indian netizens to determine after the fact.” Without broader recognition, she warns, such moments risk being “ineffective and border[ing] on cultural appropriation.”

Adding to the surprise, several other Bollywood songs, such as Teri Meri from the movie Bodyguard (2011), were included in the performance. The selection of Bollywood tracks created an unprecedented fusion of South Asian and British traditions, showcasing the universal resonance of Indian music.

The band itself has long incorporated Bollywood, Hollywood, and Scottish tunes into royal events. In a press release, the Shree Muktajeevan Swamibapa Pipe Band from Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Kingsbury stated that they welcomed King Charles III, Queen Camilla, the Prince and Princess of Wales, Princess Anne, and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester with a fusion of traditional Scottish and Indian melodies at the Commonwealth Day Celebrations held in March. Their performance, which captured the attention of the royal family, aimed to symbolise unity and cultural harmony, values at the heart of the Commonwealth.

Missed opportunity?

While many celebrated the moment as a win for Bollywood’s soft power, others saw it as a meme-worthy spectacle rather than a meaningful cultural exchange. Writer and pop culture expert Ria Chopra offers a contrarian view, arguing that “one of the main reasons this incident went viral is because Dhoom Machale is not an ‘inappropriate’ choice for a royal event. A more elegant tune would have been more effective and respectful.” If the idea was to wield in some way soft power, Ria opines that the song selection was not the right way to go about it.

She further highlights, “This feels more meme-worthy than meaningful because it was not properly executed, which is why it stands out to me.” While acknowledging London’s deep Indian diaspora and shared cultural history, particularly Punjabi music, Ria questions the need for such validation. “There are many ways to recognise the power of Indian culture—this particular incident isn’t doing much. It, in a way, shows our colonial hangover,” posits Ria.

‘Kangana Ranaut’s Electricity Bill Not ₹1 Lakh, It Includes Arrears And High Consumption’: Himachal Power Board Refuses Claim, Accuses Her Of Delayed Payments

Kangana Ranaut’s Electricity Bill Not ₹1 Lakh, It Includes Arrears And High Consumption Himachal Power Board Refuses Claim, Accuses Her Of Delayed Payments

Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut recently claimed on social media that she received an electricity bill of ₹1 lakh for her bungalow in Manali, calling it “unbelievable” and suggesting foul play. However, the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL) has now issued a clarification, denying any overbilling.

An HPSEBL official said, “The bill amount is not for one month, as being portrayed. The total includes unpaid dues for the past three months. There is no error in the billing.”

Ranaut had posted a screenshot of the bill on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “What is this new drama? One lakh electricity bill for a house that’s mostly shut? Ye satya nahi hai (this is not the truth).” Her post quickly gained traction, raising questions about the billing process.

Responding to her post, the electricity board clarified that the bill corresponds to actual consumption and the pending amount. “The actress has not cleared her dues for three months. This amount is as per her usage and applicable tariff,” said another official from the department.

Interestingly, the board also revealed that Kangana or her team have not filed any formal complaint with the department. “No one from her side has approached us regarding any discrepancy. Posting on social media without verification only creates confusion,” the spokesperson added.

Source: https://www.spotboye.com/trending/trending-news/kangana-ranaut-s-electricity-bill-not-1-lakh-it-includes-arrears-and-high-consumption-himachal-power-board-refuses-claim-accuses-her-of-delayed-payments/67f8895b98e7b5da75cc7024

Hina Khan wows fans as she quickly recovers with a smile after stumbling twice on the ramp: “Handled it gracefully”

Hina Khan turned her tripping moment on the ramp into a triumphant one with her resilient smile as she recovered from the stumbles with grace.

Hina Khan wore an elegant look and walked the ramp. (PC: IG/@laxmikantbabloo)

Hina Khan, who has been recently diagnosed with breast cancer, walked the Bombay Times Fashion Week for the brand Kiaayo. During her walk, she faced discomfort as she tripped twice in her walk, but with sheer grace and grit, she recovered every time with an unfazed smile. With a smile and confident poise, she carried on with the walk, showcasing her resilience and determination.

How did fans react?

Fans unanimously agreed on how gracefully she bounced back each time she stumbled. From regaining her balance to fixing her posture and continuing with the walk, the entire moment showcased her ability to turn a slip into strength. At that moment, she carried herself forward, not fretting over what happened, and instead focused on finishing the walk.

One user commented how she kept her composure and wrote, “She didn’t overreact ❤️,” while another agreed and noted, “She handled it gracefully 🔥👏.” Another called her, “Sherni & Sher Khan… 😍”

More about her look

Hina Khan wore an embroidered jacket with stunning artistic, floral beadwork and dense threadwork. The jacket radiated with peak maximalist energy, displaying a unique interplay of mute and bright colours that appeared cohesive.

The jacket was paired with a black floor-length skirt that featured a voluminous flare, subtle pleats with a thigh-high slit.

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/fashion/hina-khan-wows-fans-as-she-quickly-recovers-with-a-smile-after-stumbling-twice-on-the-ramp-handled-it-gracefully-101744553160922.html

Sonu Kakkar announces emotional split from siblings Neha Kakkar and Tony Kakkar: ‘I am no longer their sister’

In an unexpected and emotional social media post, singer Sonu Kakkar declared that she is no longer a sister to her younger siblings, singer Neha Kakkar and music composer Tony Kakkar. The announcement has left fans stunned and has triggered a wave of speculation, especially since it comes shortly after Sonu’s absence from Tony’s birthday celebrations on April 9 — a detail that many had already found curious.

Taking to Twitter and Instagram, Sonu wrote, “Deeply devastated to inform you all that I am no longer a SISTER to the two talented Superstars, Tony Kakkar and Neha Kakkar. This decision of mine comes from a place of deep emotional pain, and I am truly disheartened today.”

 

Source:https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/sonu-kakkar-announces-emotional-split-from-siblings-neha-kakkar-and-tony-kakkar-i-am-no-longer-their-sister/articleshow/120234800.cms

Exit mobile version