Jacqueline Fernandez reacts to ED charges: Claims she was unaware of illicit source of gifts from Sukesh Chandrasekhar

Bollywood actress Jacqueline Fernandez, through her counsel, has asserted before the Delhi High Court on Wednesday, November 13, that she was unaware of the illegal origins of the lavish gifts she received from alleged conman Sukesh Chandrasekhar. Fernandez has been implicated in a Rs 200 crores money laundering investigation involving Chandrasekhar, a case that has attracted substantial public and media attention.

Unaware of Illicit Origins, Says Jacqueline’s Counsel Representing Fernandez, senior advocates Siddharth Agrawal, Prashant Patil, and Shakti Pandey argued that the actress did not know the gifts she received were allegedly part of Chandrasekhar's criminal proceeds. "She was not involved in money laundering nor was she aware of the source of the gifts," argued Agrawal. The legal team stressed that the actress believed the gifts to be personal and was not informed that they were purchased through fraudulent means.

Justice Anish Dayal, who presided over the hearing, raised an inquiry into personal responsibility, asking, "Whether there is a duty upon an adult person to know the source of the gift one receives." The case is scheduled for further arguments on November 26. ED's Allegations Against Jacqueline Fernandez The Enforcement Directorate (ED) alleged that Fernandez received costly gifts from Chandrasekhar, funded through money extorted from Aditi Singh, the wife of a prominent businessman. The ED’s charge sheet states that Fernandez did not verify news reports connecting Chandrasekhar to illicit activities when she encountered them in 2019. Agrawal argued that while Fernandez became aware of these reports, there is no legal basis to assume she knowingly accepted “proceeds of crime.” Trust in Co-Accused Pinky Irani Misplaced, Claims Fernandez’s Counsel Further complicating the case, Fernandez’s counsel highlighted her interactions with co-accused Pinky Irani, who allegedly convinced Fernandez of Chandrasekhar’s credibility by portraying him as a well-connected “political fixer” with ties to government officials. According to the counsel, Irani assured Fernandez of Chandrasekhar’s legitimate status, convincing her that he had high-level connections within the Home Ministry.

The counsel further contended that after encountering the news article, Fernandez stopped all communication with Chandrasekhar, displaying her reluctance to associate further upon learning of his potential connections to crime. "She stopped communication once doubts arose but had no knowledge of the gifts being proceeds of crime," her counsel argued. Case to Continue in High Court As the case progresses, Fernandez’s legal team maintains that any failure on her part to scrutinise Chandrasekhar's wealth origins was a mere oversight, not an offence. They argue that her lack of intent exempts her from charges of money laundering. The court will resume discussions on November 26 to further examine the charges against Fernandez, her relationship with Chandrasekhar, and her responsibility under the law.

Also Read: Jacqueline Fernandez appears absolutely enchanting in a dazzling, sequined blue outfit, exuding a dreamlike aura

Junaid Khan to have two major releases around Valentine’s Day 2025: Report

After his Bollywood debut in Maharaj this June, Junaid Khan is gearing up for a potential double release around Valentine’s Day 2025. Trade insiders report that both of his upcoming films—one co-starring Sai Pallavi and produced by his father, Aamir Khan, and another romantic drama with Khushi Kapoor—are eyeing February release dates.

Aamir Khan's Production Targets Valentine's Day Junaid’s untitled film with Sai Pallavi, produced by Aamir Khan, is tentatively set for a February 14 release. “Aamir has been eyeing February 14 for months,” a source told Mid-Day. “They have planned promotions and distribution channels around this date. So, changing it now is difficult.”

Meanwhile, Junaid’s romantic drama with Khushi Kapoor, produced by Boney Kapoor and Phantom Studios, has already been slated for release a week earlier on February 7. Directed by Advait Chandan, the film is an official Hindi remake of the Tamil hit Love Today (2022). “In September, the makers had announced the release date,” says a source close to Boney Kapoor’s production team. “Keeping the film’s theme of young romance in mind, they want to stick to the February window.” Producers Consider Options to Avoid Box-Office Clash With both films catering to a young audience and capitalizing on Valentine’s Day, a back-to-back release could impact each film’s box-office performance. However, the release dates may still change as both production teams look to avoid direct competition. According to a source, “Aamir is currently promoting Laapataa Ladies in the U.S. for the Oscars but plans to meet with the producers of the Love Today remake later this month. An announcement of new dates is expected by December.”

If no adjustments are made, Junaid Khan could see two of his films releasing just a week apart. 

Also Read: Aamir Khan speaks on almost quitting acting after Laal Singh Chaddha debacle, reveals son Junaid Khan changed his mind: “I was going from one extreme to another”

Rohit Shetty reveals Salman Khan's Chulbul Pandey won't join Singham’s cop universe: “It will be two IPs and two universes meeting for one individual film”

Rohit Shetty discussed bringing together two iconic characters, Chulbul Pandey and Bajirao Singham, explaining that they come from different worlds. In an interview with India Today Digital, he noted that their collaboration would create a distinct film, separate from his existing cop universe.

Rohit Shetty said, “We were creating our own characters, and they were coming into each other’s stories. That’s how we created a universe. But these are two IPs (intellectual properties) that have never met. If all goes well, and the audience likes what we make...This has never been done before, and it’s something new for everyone. Also, Chulbul is not in the universe, nor is Singham going there. It will be two IPs and two universes meeting for one individual film.”

Rohit Shetty also mentioned that it would take time for the film to go on floors. He added, “This will be a standalone film, not where everyone comes together. It will definitely take a lot of time to make.”

Salman Khan made a brief appearance in the post-credits scene of Singham Again, delivering his iconic line, “Swagat nahi karoge humara?” The scene then teased the upcoming film Mission Chulbul Singham, leaving many fans disappointed by the blink-and-miss cameo.

Explaining the creative decision behind Salman Khan's cameo, Rohit Shetty said, “We followed the international format where, at the end, you see a photo or a phone call. The story had already concluded, and adding Salman just because we have him... We couldn't waste him like that. It's better to have him in a small appearance rather than a full-fledged sequence, where people think, ‘Why him, zarurat nahi thi (it wasn’t needed)?’ That would have gone majorly wrong.”

Shetty also revealed that he had been toying with the idea for many years and, when he reached out to Salman Khan, the actor immediately agreed to be a part of the film.

Also Read : EXCLUSIVE: Singham Again writer Kshitij Patwardhan on Singham being less angry this time, “His anger is subdued because…”

Kartik Aaryan praises Sonu Nigam’s voice as the magic behind Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 climax

Kartik Aaryan recently shared a heartfelt post dedicated to Sonu Nigam, crediting him for the powerful climax sequence of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. Kartik praised Sonu’s soulful singing in the film. In response, Sonu described Kartik as a "secured soul" and praised his versatility as an actor.

Kartik Aaryan shared a photo of himself embracing Sonu Nigam and expressed his admiration for the singer, who performed ‘Mere Dholna 3.0.’ In his caption, Kartik wrote, “The Entire Climax that everyone has been raving about was a combination of many forces coming together.. out of which a Big Big credit goes to @sonunigamofficial sir and his heart wrenching voice…I may have performed in front of the camera but it was his voice that CREATED THE HEART TOUCHING MAGIC…(heart emojis)…#BhoolBhulaiyaa3 In Theatres…(Call me and heart emojis).”

 

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by KARTIK AARYAN (@kartikaaryan)

Sonu Nigam responded to Kartik's post, commenting, “It takes a very very secured and loving soul to share credits.. Only goes on to show how gracious you are my dear Kartik.. Love you.. So happy to see so much love being showered upon you. What you have done in Bhool Bhullaiyya 3 is a mark of a very intelligent and deep actor. From comedy to tragedy in one film.... Marvellous. Thank you so much for your love..(smiling emojis).”

Reacting to Kartik’s post, singer Harshdeep Kaur commented, “Thank you for crediting the Artist! shows how much you respect their work!” One fan wrote, “This duo made me cry in the climax.” Another fan shared, “The climax was beautiful, but @sonunigamofficial sir’s voice took it to the next level!” A user also commented, “The climax was enough to make even grown-ups cry.”

Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, directed by Anees Bazmee, stars Triptii Dimri, Vidya Balan, Madhuri Dixit, Rajpal Yadav, Vijay Raaz, and others in key roles. The horror-comedy hit theaters on November 1.

Also Read : Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 Box Office: Kartik Aaryan starrer continues its good run on weekdays

BREAKING! Vicky Kaushal to play Chiranjeevi Parashurama in Amar Kaushik's Mahavatar, first look posters out; film to hit cinemas on Christmas 2026

In a powerful move toward historical and mythological cinema, Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock Films has announced an ambitious new project titled Mahavatar. The film will be a grand retelling of the ancient legend of Chiranjeevi Parashurama. It will be directed by Amar Kaushik, known for his distinctive narrative style in Stree and Bhediya, and stars Vicky Kaushal in the lead role. Positioned as a large-scale epic, Mahavatar promises to combine mythology with modern storytelling to captivate audiences worldwide.

Slated for a Christmas 2026 release, the film will be Maddock Films’ first venture into mythology, departing from their usual domain of contemporary stories. Vicky Kaushal will embody the powerful and complex role of Parashurama. The film is expected to be a visual and narrative spectacle, packed with drama, intense action, and a thematic depth that appeals to modern viewers while respecting the sanctity of the ancient text.

The first look posters were unveiled on November 13. The caption on Vicky Kaushal's post read, "Dinesh Vijan brings to life the story of the eternal warrior of dharma! Vicky Kaushal stars as Chiranjeevi Parashurama in #Mahavatar, directed by Amar Kaushik. Coming to cinemas - Christmas 2026!"

 

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Maddock Films (@maddockfilms)

The film’s story centers on Chiranjeevi Parashurama, one of the seven eternal immortals (or Chiranjeevis) in Hindu mythology, who is revered as a warrior sage and a symbol of resilience, penance, and retribution. The mythological character of Parashurama is often depicted as an avatar of Vishnu, the protector, but he is also known for his fiery temper and his role as a fierce warrior who wields an axe, which he received as a divine blessing.

Parashurama’s life and legend revolve around his quest to uphold dharma (justice) and his struggles against oppression, both internal and external. Parashurama is portrayed as a wise sage and a fearsome warrior in the Mahabharata, Ramayana, and various Puranas. His mission to rid the earth of corrupt rulers has inspired generations, and Mahavatar aims to capture this complexity, presenting Parashurama as a layered character navigating the duality of peace and war.

The film will go on floors in November 2025. Interestingly, this marks Vicky Kaushal's second project with Maddock Films following Chhaava. ALSO READ: Vicky Kaushal to play Lord Parshuram in Dinesh Vijans mega spectacle; filming begins in November 2025

Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao change title of Laapataa Ladies to Lost Ladies for Oscars 2025 campaign

Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao are going all out with their campaign for the Oscars 2025 for their film Laapataa Ladies, which was released earlier this year and is India’s official submission. Ahead of the campaign, they have decided to change the film's title, likely to enhance its recall value internationally.

Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao, through Aamir’s production house’s Instagram account, revealed that they have changed the title of Laapataa Ladies to Lost Ladies to boost the film’s global appeal. The announcement came with a new poster, accompanied by the caption, “The wait is over! Presenting the official poster for Lost Ladies—a glimpse into the wild, heartfelt journey of Phool and Jaya! Huge shoutout to @jahansinghbakshi and @apertureanecdotes for bringing our story to life with this stunning design. Get ready to be swept away!”

 

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Lost Ladies (@lostladiesfilm)

A special screening of Lost Ladies (formerly Laapataa Ladies) was hosted by chef Vikas Khanna in New York. On Tuesday, he shared the news on social media, offering a glimpse of the event. He wrote, “Jab dil se Dua atti hai, ‘Jeet lo duniya’. This is exactly what I felt yesterday when we were hosting Oscar Campaigning event of Lost Ladies (Laapataa Ladies) at Bungalow. Kiran you are a true artist to create such an iconic film.”

He continued, “Aamir Sir, you are the KINDEST. The way you engaged & loved & respected Mysha was everything to me. Jyoti your genuineness & everygy to support South Asian Arts is inspiring. Your journey defines an Indian value system of ‘always there for you like a family’. Prabal you are an inspiration to millions. You lift so many of us as you rise. Shine forever.”

Also Read : Aamir Khan calls Sitaare Zameen Par a ‘spiritual successor’ to Taare Zameen Par; says, “It’s a humorous film”

Salman Khan receives another death threat from aspiring songwriter Sohail Pasha for Rs 5 crores in Lawrence Bishnoi’s name; arrested by Mumbai Police

Mumbai Police on Tuesday arrested an aspiring songwriter for allegedly sending threatening messages to Bollywood actor Salman Khan and demanding Rs. 5 crores in the name of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, an official reported.

Police claimed that Sohail Pasha, arrested in Raichur, Karnataka, intended to make a song he wrote and resorted to this scheme for publicity. On November 7, the Mumbai traffic police’s WhatsApp helpline received several messages claiming that the sender was part of the Bishnoi gang, threatening to kill Salman Khan if he didn’t pay Rs. 5 crores. The sender also warned that the writer of the song ‘Main Sikandar Hoon’ would be killed.

The Mumbai Police crime branch traced the mobile number used to send the threatening messages to Raichur. A team was dispatched to Karnataka, where they interrogated Vyankatesh Narayan, the owner of the number. However, Narayan's phone did not have internet access. Police later discovered that his phone had received a WhatsApp installation OTP, leading to further investigation.

Narayan told the police that on November 3, a stranger approached him in a marketplace, asking to borrow his phone to make a call. Investigations revealed that the man had used Narayan's phone number to install WhatsApp on his own phone by obtaining an OTP. The crime branch then traced the suspect to Pasha in Manavi village near Raichur.

Pasha, the writer of the song ‘Main Sikandar Hoon’ mentioned in the threat, admitted to using the scheme to gain fame for his song by including it in a threat directed at Salman Khan. Pasha was brought to Mumbai and handed over to Worli police for further investigation. The traffic police helpline had previously received at least four threatening messages targeting Salman Khan in recent months.

Also Read : Salman Khan resumes Sikandar shoot in Hyderabad; Security beefed up to 4-layers including 70 personnel, NSG Commandos, and private guards on duty amid death threats: Report

Shah Rukh Khan death threat: Mumbai Police arrest Chhattisgarh lawyer Faizan Khan over Rs 50 lakhs extortion demand

Mumbai Police arrested Chhattisgarh lawyer Faizan Khan on Tuesday following a death threat and extortion message against Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan. Reportedly, the Bandra police station, after receiving the threat last week, traced the call to Faizan’s number. Upon questioning, Khan claimed his phone had been lost on November 2, suggesting a possible conspiracy to implicate him in the incident.

Faizan Khan Requests Virtual Testimony Citing Safety Concerns Khan expressed concerns for his safety, requesting that his statement be recorded virtually due to the alleged threats he received. Although he initially agreed to travel to Mumbai for questioning on November 14, he wrote to the Mumbai Police Commissioner highlighting his apprehensions.

Khan previously filed a complaint against Shah Rukh Khan, accusing the actor of promoting religious discord. He cited a scene from the 1993 film Anjaam, in which the actor’s character is portrayed in a manner that Khan claimed offends the religious beliefs of the Bishnoi community, who are known for their dedication to wildlife protection, particularly deer. Faizan suggested that his critical stance toward Shah Rukh Khan, including comments in a YouTube video linking the actor to alleged terror activities, may have led to his current situation. A Rising Trend of Threats Against Bollywood Stars This incident involving Faizan Khan adds to a series of threats against Bollywood stars. In recent months, Salman Khan also received death threats, allegedly from the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Last October, Shah Rukh Khan faced similar threats, which prompted the government to grant him Y+ security.

The police are continuing their investigation into Faizan Khan’s claims of innocence, his allegations against Shah Rukh Khan, and the origin of the threat call.

Also Read: Aamir Khan REACTS to Shah Rukh Khan-Salman Khan’s end-credit scene in Pathaan: “All the young actors must have got really upset”

Aamir Khan REACTS to Shah Rukh Khan-Salman Khan’s end-credit scene in Pathaan: “All the young actors must have got really upset”

One of the greatest moments of Hindi cinema was seen in Pathaan (2023) when Salman Khan aka Tiger comes to save the protagonist played by Shah Rukh Khan in the second half. That’s not all. In the end credit scene, Pathaan and Tiger appear together and they decide to let the young blood take over. However, they realize that there’s no one who could take their place. This is when Pathaan says, “Desh ka sawaal hai, baccho pe nahin chod sakte”. Both play spies and they are speaking about the younger secret agents but it was also a subtle way of the two Khans stating that they are irreplaceable. Now the third Khan, Aamir Khan, has reacted to this much-loved scene.

In an interview with Anupama Chopra on The Hollywood Reporter India, Aamir was asked about this sequence. He said, “I found the scene really funny. I have not seen the film but I have seen that scene because you get clips nowadays on Instagram. Hence, I ended up seeing that scene. It’s quite funny.”

When Anupama described the whole scene to him, he laughed and quipped, “I think all the young actors must have got really upset. And you can’t even get too upset with Shah Rukh and Salman. Kya kar sakte hai(laughs).”

Aamir Khan was asked about how he along with Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan have been the top actors and what is the way forward for them. Aamir clarified, “First of all, I have to say that it’s not just Salman, Shah Rukh and I who have lasted 35 years. There’s Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, Mr Amitabh Bachchan and many actors who have been with us.”

He then said, “If anyone has figured out what stardom is and how it's achieved, then you tell me because I don’t know. Why have I become a star and not somebody else, I have no idea. If you tell me to do it all over again, I won’t know how to do it again.”

He added, “With the internet coming in and with social media becoming a part of our lives, I think these factors will affect stardom. Earlier, stars were those whom you couldn’t reach. But now they are available quite easily. So the bunch of us who became stars before social media and the internet came in had a slight advantage I feel. For a new person coming in, he should stay away from the public.”

After giving some thought, Aamir Khan also noted, “The yardstick I have used for stardom is how many seats do you feel. If you are able to fill cinemas, then you are a star. Otherwise, I may love you but I may not come and see your film. People who cannot fill seats are perhaps also stars but as a producer, if I am signing a star, I expect him to fill seats. Otherwise, why am I taking him?”

Also Read: 28 Years of Raja Hindustani EXCLUSIVE: Dharmesh Darshan reveals there’s a TREMENDOUS demand for sequel to Aamir Khan-starrer: “People tell me, ‘I should turn the Thug Of Hindostan into Raja Hindustani again’”; also appeals to the producers, I wish they have grace and share some royalty”

Kartik Aaryan keen on reviving Aashiqui 3 after Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3; hopes for Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety sequel: Report

Kartik Aaryan, riding high on the success of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, is reportedly keen on reviving the Aashiqui franchise. The actor, initially set to star in Aashiqui 3 under Anurag Basu's direction, aims to bring the film back under the iconic franchise banner. Originally titled Aashiqui 3, the project underwent a name change to Tu Aashiqui Hai earlier this year due to a dispute between the film's producers, T-Series and Vishesh Films. However, the recent success of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 has prompted Aaryan to reconsider the strategic value of a franchise.

As per a report in Mid-day, a source revealed, “The success of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and 3 has confirmed Kartik’s belief in the power of franchises. He has suggested to Bhushan that he initiate talks with Mukesh Bhatt to acquire the title. Kartik is certain that building the love story under the Aashiqui franchise will give it a push.”

The Aashiqui franchise has a rich history. The original 1990 film launched the careers of Rahul Roy and Anu Aggarwal. The 2013 sequel, Aashiqui 2, starring Aditya Roy Kapur and Shraddha Kapoor, was also a massive commercial and critical success.

However, the road to Aashiqui 3 is not without its challenges. The ongoing dispute between T-Series and Vishesh Films over the franchise rights could complicate matters. Additionally, Anurag Basu's busy schedule, including the reshoots of Metro… In Dino, may delay the project's commencement. Despite these hurdles, Aaryan remains determined to bring the franchise back to life. He is committed to ensuring the film is made with utmost care and attention to detail. The actor is also keen on exploring other franchise opportunities, with a potential sequel to his 2018 hit Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety on the cards. “Anurag is anyway busy with the re-shoot of Metro… In Dino. With this new development, the project will only roll sometime next year. Kartik wants clarity on all aspects before he faces the camera,” the source added.

Meanwhile, Kartik Aaryan will soon start the shoot for Pati Patni Aur Woh 2 with Mudassar Aziz. ALSO READ: Bhushan Kumar reacts to Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 success; says, “It celebrates the journey of Kartik Aaryan from a star to now a superstar”

Kalki 2898 AD director Nag Ashwin rubbishes reports of working with Alia Bhatt in his next

Sorry, no Alia Bhatt in Ashwin Nag’s film. Yesterday morning we woke up to an avalanche of stories about Alia Bhatt and Kalki 2898 AD director Nag Ashwin collaborating for a film. This writer checked with Nag Ashwin himself whether he is really going to work with Alia, and he said, “No sir, this is just some random rumour.”

Ashwin also revealed to this writer that his next will be the sequel to Kalki 2898 AD and nothing else. The sequel will be made only when Deepika is ready to get back to work.

All of Deepika Padukone’s ‘Dua’ have come true. At the moment, she is completely in the maternal mode. One of her closest friends said that she is in no mood to return to work any time in the near future, even though the offers are pouring in.

“Impatient elements are knocking hard on her door. But Deepika won’t be returning to the camera anytime in the near future. Deepika is an unconditionally hands-on mother. She won’t leave her baby with a nanny for even a minute. All parenting will be shared by her and Ranveer,” said the friend.

In the meanwhile, the makers of her mega-hit sci-fi mythological Kalki 2898 AD have taken a decision to wait for her to return from her indefinite maternity leave.

Added the source, “She gave them the option of cutting her role to expedite the shooting in her absence. But the producers wouldn’t hear of it. They will wait for as long as it takes. They have already shot some portions of her role in the second part. For the rest, they will wait. The Kalki franchise is unimaginable without Deepika.”

For Deepika, motherhood is the most valuable role of her life. She always wanted to be a mother. Deepika loves children. She bonds with them instinctively.

The Kalki 2898 AD sequel will star Amitabh Bachchan, Prabhas and Kamal Haasan again. Kamal Haasan, who had only a cameo appearance in the first part, will be one of the pivotal characters in the sequel. With this film, Nag Ashwin has joined the ranks of the biggest Indian film directors alongside SS Rajamouli, Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Karan Johar.

Also Read: Alia Bhatt to collaborate with Nag Ashwin for emotional, empowering female-led drama; Report

EXCLUSIVE: Mona Singh gears up for an intense role in an upcoming web series; Deets inside!

Mona Singh has long been admired for her exceptional performances on screen. Known for her distinct charm, she consistently brings depth and authenticity to every role, captivating audiences with her flawless portrayals. Her on-screen presence is magnetic, exuding a unique appeal that resonates with her fans. Now, Mona is set to take on a new challenge, preparing for a powerful and intense performance in an upcoming series.

A source close to the actress shared that Mona is leaving no stone unturned in her preparation. “Mona is really preparing for an intense and power-packed performance,” the source revealed. “She’s changed her perfume to something strong and intense, and her music playlist has shifted from soft melodies to loud, bass-heavy tracks! She’s going to create magic!”

With this new approach, Mona is set to create magic on screen, and fans can expect yet another memorable performance from the talented actress.

As she is set to appear in an action-packed avatar. She is giving her heart and soul to deliver her best.

Also Read : Mona Singh on Munjya’s Rs.100 crore success: “Producers and directors should think about making a family entertainer, and not just looking at the hit formula”

Ajay Devgn REACTS to memes on “Zubaan Kesari” ad: “It doesn’t matter”

Bollywood actor Ajay Devgn recently spoke about the trolling and memes surrounding his viral Vimal Elaichi advertisement. Known for the tagline "Bolo Zubaan Kesari," Ajay’s ad has often been the subject of jokes and memes across social media. Devgn, who has endorsed the brand for years, spoke candidly about the humorous attention the ad receives, explaining that the online jokes don’t bother him.

Ajay Devgn Addresses Meme Culture Around His Vimal Elaichi Ad In a conversation with interviewer Ranveer Allahbadia, Ajay Devgn was asked about how he feels when people humorously mimic his iconic tagline from the Vimal Elaichi ad. Ajay responded with a calm attitude, admitting that the memes and online jabs don’t affect him personally. When Allahbadia asked, “If you don’t mind me asking, in this meme culture, if someone is saying, ‘Zubaan Kesari,’ how does your brain process it?” Ajay replied simply, “It’s okay. It doesn’t matter."

Rohit Shetty, who was present during the interview, added his own take on the meme culture surrounding Ajay’s ad campaigns, saying, “I think it is done being offensive. Everyone enjoys memes now. It’s now about ‘Arre, did you see this meme?’”

 

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Ranveer Allahbadia (@ranveerallahbadia)

Shah Rukh Khan, Akshay Kumar, and the Enduring Popularity of the Vimal Elaichi Ads Ajay Devgn’s association with Vimal Elaichi has placed him firmly in the spotlight of meme culture. Bollywood stars Shah Rukh Khan and, previously, Akshay Kumar, have also been brand ambassadors for Vimal Elaichi. However, Akshay Kumar opted to end his contract with the brand last year following online backlash for endorsing a product connected to the tobacco industry. Shah Rukh Khan joined the campaign shortly after, and more recently, Tiger Shroff has become part of the star-studded endorsement line-up. Ajay Devgn's Box Office Success with Singham Again Apart from the ongoing attention paid to his Vimal Elaichi ads, Ajay Devgn has been celebrating the success of Singham Again, directed by Rohit Shetty. The film, which was released around Diwali, features an ensemble cast, including Kareena Kapoor, Arjun Kapoor, Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, Tiger Shroff, and Shweta Tiwari. Singham Again has crossed the Rs 200 crore mark at the box office in less than two weeks. 

Also Read: Aamir Khan recalls getting attacked by a chimpanzee on Ishq set; Ajay Devgn says: “He was spraying water on it and then ran around, shouting ‘bachao bachao’ like a girl”

Ajay Devgn reveals his extreme pranks, inluding sending a woman and kids to a production member’s house, claiming she was his first wife: “Hamare wajah se ek-do divorce bhi ho chuke hai”

Ajay Devgn, known as one of Bollywood's biggest pranksters, recently shared details about some of his notorious practical jokes during a conversation with YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia. Ajay admitted to pulling off extreme pranks in the past, some of which were so intense they “caused divorces”

In a behind-the-scenes clip from the interview, Ajay was seen pranking a cameraman on a film set. Filmmaker Rohit Shetty, who joined the conversation, responded to the video with a laugh, stated, “This is a small prank. We once sent a woman and kids to the house of a production team member, claiming she was his first wife. We have gone to that level too.”

Ajay acknowledged the intensity of his pranks and admitted, “These days, pranksters worry about someone getting offended. We didn’t think about that back then. Hamare wajah se ek-do divorce bhi ho chuke hai.”

In a recent interview, actor-costume designer Dolly Ahluwalia recalled working on Omkara with Ajay Devgn and shared one of his pranks that left some people on set unconscious. She revealed, “Ajay Devgn was the biggest prankster on the sets of Omkara. Once a few guys fell unconscious on the set due to their prank. They had brought a ladoo made of bhaang and whoever ate it for the first time, just fell unconscious and they (Ajay and Vivek Oberoi) used to be like, ‘Don’t worry, they will be fine.’ Vishal Bharadwaj used to be a little upset, but he knew them so there was never a serious situation on set. We need such fun moments on set to work, to be honest.”

Ajay Devgn and Rohit Shetty are currently celebrating the success of Singham Again, with the film nearing Rs 200 crore at the Indian box office. In her review of the movie, SCREEN’s Shubhra Gupta wrote, “It’s all so same-old in Ajay Devgn-Rohit Shetty’s Singham Again that even the new locations don’t help. Neither does all the blatant-referencing-and-copy-pasting of Ramayan.”

Also Read : Ajay Devgn and Aamir Khan spark excitement by teasing a sequel to 1997 film Ishq; recall fun moments on the set: “Warmth and love”

Sanya Malhotra starrer Mrs to have its Asia premiere at International Film Festival of India 2024

Jio Studios and Baweja Studios’ powerful drama Mrs., will have its Asia premiere at the prestigious International Film Festival of India (IFFI) on 22nd November’24. Present for the screening will be Producers Jyoti Deshpande, Harman Baweja and Co-producer Smitha Baliga along with the lead cast Sanya Malhotra and Director Arati Kadav.

Mrs. has proven to be a festival favourite garnering widespread admiration and accolades at some of the leading international festivals, including IIFM, Tallinn Black Nights, the New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF), and the Palm Springs International Film Festival. It promises emotional depth and powerful performances, especially by Sanya Malhotra, that have earned heartfelt standing ovations at each of these festivals.

Mrs. follows the life of Richa, portrayed by the brilliant Sanya Malhotra, as she struggles to find her own identity while living within the constraints of her role as a wife and homemaker. The film explores themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the pursuit of one's voice, striking a chord with audiences around the world.

The film, also starring Nishant Dahiya and Kanwaljit Singh in pivotal roles, highlights not only Richa’s journey but also the importance of those who support and challenge her along the way. It has been lauded for its sensitive portrayal of complex relationships and the nuanced direction by Arati Kadav, who has brought a fresh perspective to storytelling in Indian cinema.

Talking about the film premiering at IFFI, Jyoti Deshpande, President of Media and Content Business at Reliance Industries, says “Mrs. is a story deeply rooted in the Indian ethos and with its India premiere at IFFI, this film makes a meaningful homecoming, one that we at Jio Studios are immensely proud of. It captures the evolving spirit of the Indian woman — her resilience, her journey of self-discovery, and her extraordinary strength in everyday life. We are committed to championing empowering stories like Mrs. that celebrate voices which inspire transformation and progress.”

“We’re thrilled to bring Mrs. to the audiences at IFFI, especially with Sanya Malhotra delivering such a powerful, nuanced performance,” says the film's producer Harman Baweja. “This film delves into themes of a woman’s identity and resilience in a way that’s both deeply personal and universally relatable, and we’re excited to see how viewers connect with its story.”

The lead actor of the film, Sanya Malhotra shares, “The premiere of Mrs. in India feels like it has completed a full circle. This film has been a journey of deep personal and emotional growth and having it embraced by audiences at international festivals has been incredibly humbling for me. But nothing compares to the joy of sharing it with my own people, in the land where it was born. I’m so grateful to be part of this film, and I can’t wait for audiences at IFFI to experience the magic, the love, and the heart of Mrs.”

Talking about its premiere in India, director Arati Kadav elaborates, “Bringing Mrs. to India feels incredibly close to my heart. From its inception to its journey through international festivals, this film has been an exploration of emotions, culture, and the power of storytelling. But now, as we finally premiere in India, it feels like we are coming home. I am deeply grateful to share it with the audiences here who will truly understand its soul."

Mrs. is a tale of Richa enacted by Sanya, which depicts the life of a married girl who finds her identity amidst navigating her life in the kitchen. Alongside Sanya Malhotra, the film also stars Nishant Dahiya and Kanwaljit Singh in pivotal roles. Directed by Arati Kadav, Mrs is Produced by Jyoti Deshpande, Pammi Baweja and Harman Baweja, and Co-produced by Smitha Baliga. ALSO READ: Sanya Malhotra starrer Mrs to close New York Indian Film Festival 2024

Alia Bhatt to collaborate with Nag Ashwin for emotional, empowering female-led drama; Report

Following the success of Kalki 2898 AD, director Nag Ashwin is reportedly working on a major female-led project. The filmmaker is said to be in talks with actress Alia Bhatt for the role. According to a report in Mid-Day, Alia is a perfect fit for the part and is preparing to take on another large-scale pan-India film after SS Rajamouli's RRR.

Although there has been no official confirmation, a report suggests that Nag Ashwin is in talks with Alia Bhatt for a major female-led project. A source close to the production shared that both Ashwin and Alia are excited about the collaboration. While the details of the story remain under wraps, the source mentioned that the role is tailor-made for Alia, known for portraying strong female characters. The script, focused on a powerful female lead, is said to require emotional depth and intensity, tackling themes of resilience and empowerment in a contemporary setting.

The source said, “Ashwin has crafted a script focused on a powerful female lead—a character that demands emotional intensity and depth which is tailor-made for Alia. While the storyline remains a closely guarded secret, the narrative would tackle themes of personal resilience and empowerment in a unique, contemporary setting.”

The untitled project is being produced by the Hyderabad-based production house, Vyjayanthi Films, and is expected to begin production in the second half of 2025.

Alia is currently filming Alpha with Sharvai Wagh, which marks YRF's first female-led film in its expansive spy universe, which includes titles like Pathaan, War, and Ek Tha Tiger. Her collaboration with Nag Ashwin, known for his meticulous attention to detail and creative vision, is a significant step forward in her career.

The film is expected to be another grand production, following Kalki 2898 AD, with Vyjayanthi Films reportedly sparing no expense to ensure top-notch production values.

Also Read : Alia Bhatt hosts Jungle-themed bash as Raha turns 2

67th Grammy Awards 2025: Ricky Kej, Anoushka Shankar, Varijashree Venugopal among the 5 Indian nominees

The 67th Grammy Awards nominations brought a wave of excitement to the Indian music scene, recognizing a diverse range of established and rising artists. This year's ceremony promises to be a landmark event for Indian music, with several prominent figures and fresh faces receiving nominations across various categories. Ricky Kej, Anoushka Shankar, Varijashree Venugopal and more Indian artists have been nominated.

Leading the pack is Ricky Kej, a two-time Grammy winner known for his innovative blend of world music and contemporary sounds. Kej's album Break of Dawn secured him a nomination in the prestigious Best New Age, Ambient, or Chant Album category. This marks his third consecutive nomination in this category, following his wins in 2022 for Divine Tides (with Stewart Copeland) and 2023 for the immersive audio version of the same album.

Sitar virtuoso and composer Anoushka Shankar also received a nod in the Best New Age, Ambient, or Chant Album category for her album Chapter II: How Dark It Is Before Dawn. She garnered a second nomination for her collaboration with British multi-instrumentalist Jacob Collier on the song ‘A Rock Somewhere.’ This soulful track, featuring the talents of Bengaluru-based vocalist, flautist, and composer Varijashree Venugopal, is competing in the Best Global Music Performance category. Notably, this is Venugopal's first Grammy nomination, marking a significant milestone in her musical journey.  It's worth noting that Venugopal's talents also graced Kej's nominated album Break of Dawn.

The Grammy Awards will take place on February 2, 2025, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: India’s Ricky Kej on his Grammy-winning album Divine Tides, inclusivity at the Grammys, and why he no longer composes for Indian films

Akshay Kumar plans to reunite with Govinda and Paresh Rawal for Bhagam Bhag 2: Report

In an exciting development for Bollywood comedy lovers, Akshay Kumar is set to bring back the magic of one of his most beloved comedy films, Bhagam Bhag. The 2006 Priyadarshan-directed film, which featured the comic trio of Akshay Kumar, Govinda, and Paresh Rawal, became an instant hit. Over the years, Bhagam Bhag has developed a cult status, with its memorable lines, iconic characters, and laugh-out-loud moments still circulating in the meme world. Now, two decades later, it seems that Akshay Kumar is planning to revive the franchise with Bhagam Bhag 2, once again bringing together the iconic trio of Kumar, Govinda, and Paresh Rawal for another dose of hilarity.

According to Pinkvilla report, Akshay Kumar is now gearing up to reprise his role for Bhagam Bhag 2—a sequel that aims to capture the same comedic energy and charm as its predecessor. The rights for the film have reportedly been acquired by Sarita Ashwin Varde of Roaring River Productions, who will be producing the sequel in association with Shemaroo Entertainment. The sequel is still in its early stages, with the script currently being developed by a fresh team of writers.

A source close to the development revealed, “Hera Pheri, Bhagam Bhag, and Garam Masala are three of the most special films for Akshay Kumar, and he has already sorted out the franchise rights for Hera Pheri and Bhagam Bhag. The sequel is currently in the writing stage with a fresh set of writers.”

The source continued, “Three comic legends in the same film will be a treat for cinema-going audiences, and the idea is to crack a script that does justice to the legacy of their work in the past. The scripting work has just started, as the germ of an idea for Bhagam Bhag 2 is already in place.”

Released in 2006, Bhagam Bhag had all the right ingredients for a successful comedy—silly situations, hilarious misunderstandings, and a stellar cast. The film told the story of two theatre artists, played by Akshay Kumar and Govinda, who, along with their fellow cast members (including Paresh Rawal), get embroiled in a hilarious mix-up involving a kidnapped woman, mistaken identities, and a series of ridiculous events. The movie's fast-paced humour, quirky characters, and memorable dialogue delivery made it an instant favourite, and its legacy has only grown in the years since.

According to the same source, Akshay Kumar’s involvement with Bhagam Bhag 2 is crucial. "Akshay will be collaborating with another producer on the film, and the details have been kept under wraps for now," the source added.

If all goes as planned, the film is expected to go on floors by the end of 2025, with a potential release in 2026. The film’s director will be finalized once the scripting process is complete, with the creative team working to ensure that the film remains true to its roots while bringing something new to the table.

While Bhagam Bhag 2 is still in the early stages, Akshay Kumar is keeping busy with a number of other high-profile projects. Currently, he is shooting for Housefull 5, the latest installment in the successful Housefull franchise. Akshay will also star in the upcoming Welcome To The Jungle, a new entry in the Welcome series, as well as the horror-comedy Bhooth Bangla. Additionally, Akshay is expected to appear in Jolly LLB 3, which is slated for release in April 2025. ALSO READ: Arshad Warsi teases “Insane” fight sequence with Akshay Kumar in Jolly LLB 3, reveals he wasn’t happy with sequel’s script: “I would have done it because…”

Kartik Aaryan to kick off Pati Patni Aur Woh 2 with Mudassar Aziz as Anurag Basu’s romantic musical gets delayed: Report

Filmmaker Anurag Basu has temporarily put his highly anticipated collaboration with Kartik Aaryan on hold. The decision comes as Basu prioritizes refining his upcoming ensemble drama, Metro... In Dino. This sequel to the 2007 hit Life in a Metro boasts an impressive ensemble cast including Aditya Roy Kapur, Sara Ali Khan, Konkona Sensharma, Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Anupam Kher, and Neena Gupta. Despite wrapping up the film in September, Basu has expressed a desire to revisit certain key scenes to elevate the emotional depth and narrative impact. This decision to re-shoot has inevitably impacted the timeline for Basu's project with Kartik Aaryan.

“Anurag wasn’t completely satisfied with how some scenes shaped up, especially given the emotional complexity that is crucial to each of the intertwined stories of the film. He felt that re-shooting some scenes would help the narrative and better capture the story’s essence,” a source close to the production told Mid-day.

Meanwhile, the Kartik Aaryan romantic musical, which was slated to kick off this month, will now be pushed back by a couple of months. In the interim, Aaryan plans to utilize this time to commence work on Pati Patni Aur Woh 2, directed by Mudassar Aziz. He will start Pati Patni Aur Woh 2 by early December,” added a source.

Bollywood Hungama, in July 2024, reported that Pati Patni Aur Woh 2’s script for the sequel has already been locked, and Kartik is very excited to reprise his role as the small-town simpleton. “Kartik loved the script of PPAW 2 and, as soon as he gave his nod, the makers decided to get this one rolling soon. Knowing the actor’s tight schedule and several films lined up, the makers have secured his dates as soon as possible. Once Kartik wraps up shooting for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, PPAW 2 will go on floors,” revealed the source.

Meanwhile, the Anurag Basu musical also stars Triptii Dimri, marking her second project with Kartik Aaryan after Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Kartik Aaryan returns to comedy, signs Pati Patni Aur Woh 2

Suniel Shetty ‘absolutely fine’ after sustaining minor injury on set of Hunter: Tootega Nahi Todega: “Grateful for all the love & care”

Bollywood Hungama, on November 8, broke the news that veteran Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty, renowned for his action-packed roles and robust physique, sustained a minor injury while filming a high-octane action sequence for his web series, Hunter: Tootega Nahi Todega. The incident occurred on a Mumbai film set, where Shetty reportedly suffered a rib injury.

According to sources from the set, the actor was in the midst of performing a challenging and physically demanding stunt when the mishap took place. Despite stringent safety measures, the intense nature of the action sequence led to an unfortunate accident, resulting in a painful blow to his ribs. The production team promptly responded to the situation by arranging for medical professionals and an X-ray machine to be brought directly to the set.

A thorough medical examination was conducted, and X-rays were taken to assess the extent of the injury. Fortunately, the initial diagnosis revealed that the injury was minor and manageable. Shetty was advised to rest and avoid any strenuous activities to ensure a speedy recovery.

The actor himself took to social media on Thursday to reassure fans about his health. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Shetty stated, “Minor injury, nothing serious! I'm absolutely fine and ready for the next shot. Grateful for all the love & care. #OnSet.”

Minor injury, nothing serious! I'm absolutely fine and ready for the next shot. Grateful for all the love & care ????❤️ #OnSet — Suniel Shetty (@SunielVShetty) November 7, 2024

Hunter: Tootega Nahi Todega is a Hindi-language web series created and directed by Prince Dhiman and Alok Batra, and produced by Saregama and Yoodlee Films. The series features Suniel Shetty, Esha Deol, Barkha Bisht, Karanvir Sharma, and Rahul Dev. ALSO READ: BREAKING: Suniel Shetty injured on set of Hunter: Tootega Nahi Todega, suffers rib injury during intense action sequence