Hansika Motwani files Rs 2 crores defamation suit against sister-in-law Muskan Nancy James amid legal battle

Hansika Motwani has initiated legal action against her estranged sister-in-law Muskan Nancy James by filing a defamation suit in a Mumbai sessions court, marking the latest development in an ongoing family dispute. The actor has sought damages amounting to Rs. 2 crores, along with a formal public apology and a court directive restraining James from making further statements against her.

The plea, filed through advocate Adnan Shaikh, alleges that Muskan Nancy James made defamatory accusations on social media, including claims of domestic violence involving Hansika and her brother Prashant Motwani. According to the petition, these allegations are baseless and have caused reputational harm.

Central to the dispute is an alleged financial transaction. Hansika Motwani has claimed that Muskan borrowed Rs. 27 lakhs during her marriage to Prashant Motwani and has failed to repay the amount despite repeated follow-ups. The suit contends that the allegations may have been made to avoid repayment of this loan.

The legal conflict follows an earlier FIR lodged by Muskan Nancy James against her husband and Hansika Motwani. In her complaint, James accused them of harassment, cruelty, and interference in her marriage, along with claims related to demands made during wedding functions. She also stated that the stress from the relationship contributed to her developing Bell’s Palsy.

Responding to these accusations, Hansika has denied any involvement, maintaining that she was not part of the couple’s household and had limited interaction with their personal matters. She has consistently asserted that she cannot be held accountable for the allegations made against her.

In addition to the civil suit, Hansika Motwani has also pursued criminal defamation proceedings against Muskan Nancy James before a magistrate’s court in Andheri under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. She had earlier approached the Bombay High Court seeking to quash the FIR filed against her, with the court issuing notice on her plea.

A statement issued on her behalf emphasised that she had been wrongly implicated in the dispute and subjected to sustained defamatory coverage. It reiterated that her involvement in her brother’s marriage was minimal and that the allegations lack judicial backing.

The matter, which stems from the strained marriage between Prashant Motwani and Muskan Nancy James, is now expected to come up for hearing before the Dindoshi sessions court in due course.

Also Read: Hansika Motwani and Sohael Khaturiya granted divorce; no alimony sought, says lawyer

BTS World Tour ‘Arirang’ to hit Indian theatres as PVR INOX announces exclusive screenings; deets inside

Continuing its commitment to bringing the world’s most iconic cultural moments to the big screen, PVR INOX Limited, India’s leading multiplex chain, announced the exclusive screening of the BTS World Tour ‘Arirang’. The cinematic event will feature live viewings and select re-broadcasts of the global icons' performances from Goyang on April 11 and Tokyo on April 18, 2026.

The release of ‘Arirang’ follows a series of highly successful and sold-out K-pop screenings at PVR INOX, including ‘Yet to Come in Cinemas,’ ‘Burn the Stage,’ and the 2025 HYBE Cine Fest. PVR INOX has consistently witnessed strong nationwide demand, often leading to additional shows and screens being added across cities. By securing the license for this tour, PVR INOX reinforces its position as the premier destination for experiential entertainment and youth culture in India.

The screenings will be hosted across an expansive network of 20+ cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Gurugram, Pune, Ahmedabad, and Guwahati, catering to the immense demand from the Indian BTS ARMY.

Commenting on the announcement, Mr. Aamer Bijli, Lead Specialist – Innovation, Film Marketing, and Digital Programming, PVR INOX Limited, said, “At PVR INOX, we are constantly pushing the boundaries of what the cinema experience can be. BTS is more than just a musical act; they are a global phenomenon that resonates deeply with Gen Z and millennial audiences. By bringing the ‘Arirang’ tour to our screens, we are providing a communal space for fans to celebrate their idols with the best-in-class sound and visual technology that only a theatre can provide. We are also seeing a strong shift towards experiential cinema, where audiences are seeking immersive, shared experiences beyond traditional film viewing.”

PVR INOX has observed a significant shift in consumer behavior regarding concert films. Previous BTS screenings have seen nationwide sell-outs, leading to the addition of extra screens to accommodate the passionate fandom. There is also a notable rise in group bookings and fandom-driven participation, with audiences particularly Gen Z, urban professionals, and K-pop enthusiasts actively seeking communal viewing experiences. Screening Schedule & Locations:

April 11, 2026: Live from Goyang April 18, 2026: Live from Tokyo

Participating Cities: Delhi, Gurgaon, Faridabad, Chandigarh, Mohali, Dehradun, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Lucknow, Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, Mumbai, Pune, Nasik (Nashik), Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Ranchi, Indore, Kolkata, Jaipur, Udaipur, Raipur, Patna, and Guwahati.

Also Read: BTS announces new album release on March 20, confirms world tour plans; details inside!

Dhurandhar The Revenge faces copyright suit over alleged unauthorised use of ‘Rang De Lal’

Production banner Trimurti Films has filed a lawsuit against filmmaker Aditya Dhar’s company B62 Studios, alleging unauthorised use of the song ‘Rang De Lal’ in the film Dhurandhar The Revenge. The dispute relates to the rights to the track, which originally appeared in the 1989 film Tridev. The song was co-composed by Anand–Milind, written by Sameer Anjaan, and sung by Amit Kumar and Sapna Mukherjee.

What the lawsuit alleges According to sources familiar with the matter, Trimurti Films has claimed ownership or control over the relevant rights connected to the musical work and sound recording of ‘Rang De Lal’. The company has alleged that the song, or a version substantially similar to it, was used in the film without obtaining the necessary permissions.

The suit states that such use amounts to copyright infringement, including unauthorised reproduction and communication of the work to the public.

Trimurti Films has sought an injunction to restrain further use of the song, along with damages and related reliefs. The production house has also raised concerns about the commercial exploitation of the track through theatrical screenings, streaming platforms and promotional material linked to the film.

Dhurandhar The Revenge is a 2026 Hindi-language spy action thriller directed by Aditya Dhar. The film is produced by Jio Studios and B62 Studios and serves as the sequel to Dhurandhar (2025).

The sequel was released on March 19, and has remained in the spotlight due to its strong box office performance as well as multiple legal developments related to the film.

Also Read: Dhurandhar Row: Bombay High Court restrains plagiarism accuser; relief for director Aditya Dhar

Kartik Aaryan takes legal route to protect his identity, flags online misuse

Actor Kartik Aaryan has approached the Bombay High Court, alleging unauthorised commercial use of his personality across multiple online platforms, in a move that underscores growing concerns over digital misuse of celebrity identities.

According to reports, the actor has filed an intellectual property (IP) suit seeking protection of his name, image, likeness, and other identifiable attributes, which he claims are being used without consent. The plea targets several online platforms as well as unidentified individuals, often referred to as “John Doe” parties, accused of exploiting his persona for commercial gain.

In his petition, Kartik has sought a permanent injunction to restrain entities from using his identity in advertisements, merchandise, or digital content. He has also urged the court to direct platforms to take down such material and disclose details of those responsible. The actor’s legal team has argued that the misuse extends to emerging digital formats, including manipulated content and AI-generated material, raising concerns around privacy and publicity rights in an increasingly tech-driven ecosystem. The plea stresses that such unauthorised usage not only violates his rights but also risks misleading the public.

The case is expected to be heard shortly, with Kartik seeking urgent relief to prevent further exploitation of his personality. This development comes amid a broader trend of celebrities moving court to safeguard their personality rights against misuse on social media and e-commerce platforms. Courts in India have, in recent months, taken note of such concerns, particularly in cases involving deepfakes, fake endorsements, and unauthorised digital reproductions.

Also Read: Kartik Aaryan brings home Mercedes-Benz V-Class worth up to Rs 1.7 crore

Salman Khan moves NCDRC after Jaipur consumer court issues bailable warrants in Rajshree Elaichi ad case

Actor Salman Khan has approached the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC), alleging that the Jaipur District Consumer Commission acted unfairly in proceedings related to a complaint over his endorsement of “Rajshree Elaichi.”

The development comes after the district commission issued bailable warrants against Khan for allegedly failing to comply with its earlier direction to stop misleading advertisements connected to the product. Salman Khan claims orders were not served to him Appearing for the actor, Senior Advocate Ravi Prakash argued before the NCDRC that certified copies of the district commission’s orders were not provided to Khan, even though those same orders were already circulating in media reports. According to the plea, coercive steps were taken against the actor despite him not receiving official copies of the orders.

The petition also stated that the interim order passed earlier in the case “was not in the knowledge of the petitioner and never served,” adding that penal proceedings under Section 72 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 should not have been initiated without proper service. Case relates to complaint over Rajshree Elaichi advertisement The matter stems from a complaint filed in December 2025 by advocate Yogendra Singh Badiyal before the Jaipur District Consumer Commission against Rajshree Pan Masala and Salman Khan, who was named as Opposite Party No. 2 in his role as brand ambassador. The complaint alleged that advertisements for “Rajshree Elaichi” were effectively surrogate promotions for pan masala and amounted to misleading advertising under the Consumer Protection Act.

On January 6, 2026, the district commission passed an interim order directing the respondents to refrain from misleading advertisements until they filed their reply. According to Khan’s plea, this order was passed ex parte and without prior notice to him. Bailable warrants issued in contempt proceedings The complainant later alleged that the interim order had been violated after a hoarding featuring Salman Khan appeared in public, following which a contempt application was filed under Section 72 of the Act. On January 15, 2026, the district commission issued bailable warrants against Khan in connection with the contempt proceedings. The actor challenged this decision before the Rajasthan State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, but the State Commission dismissed his appeal on March 16, 2026 and upheld the district commission’s order. Actor raises concern over direction to form Special Task Force During the hearing before the NCDRC, Khan’s counsel also argued that after issuing bailable warrants, the district commission directed the formation of a Special Task Force to secure the actor’s presence. According to the plea, such directions were unusual in consumer proceedings and reflected a disproportionate approach.

The NCDRC took note of concerns raised about certified copies of orders not being provided to the parties while appearing in media reports. At the same time, the Commission observed that its jurisdiction remains defined by statute and cannot extend beyond the framework of the law.

Also Read: SCOOP: Salman Khan’s Maatrubhumi misses May window; June release on the cards 

Kartik Aaryan brings home Mercedes-Benz V-Class worth up to Rs 1.7 crore

Actor Kartik Aaryan has added the Mercedes-Benz V-Class to his growing collection of premium vehicles, bringing a new level of comfort-focused practicality to a garage that already includes several performance-oriented and luxury models.

Interestingly, film producer Boney Kapoor also recently brought home the same luxury MPV, highlighting its rising popularity among film industry personalities who prefer spacious, chauffeur-driven vehicles for daily travel.

Kartik Aaryan’s existing car collection already reflects a strong preference for high-performance and premium vehicles. Among these is the McLaren GT, known for its speed and touring capability, the Lamborghini Urus, along with the Range Rover, BMW 5 Series and Mini Cooper.

With the addition of the Mercedes-Benz V-Class, the actor’s garage now includes a vehicle designed primarily for comfort, space and convenience. The move brings balance to his collection by complementing performance-focused machines with a practical luxury people mover suited for everyday city movement and professional commitments. Why the Mercedes-Benz V-Class is a celebrity favourite The Mercedes-Benz V-Class is widely known for its spacious cabin layout and executive-style seating configuration, especially suited for those who prefer chauffeur-driven travel. The six-seater arrangement with captain seats, ambient lighting and advanced suspension enhances long-distance comfort and privacy.

In India, the luxury MPV is typically priced between Rs 1.4 crore and Rs 1.7 crore, depending on the variant and features.

Speaking of the professional front, Kartik has an exciting line-up with multiple films in his pipeline, including NaagZilla and an untitled Anurag Basu directorial musical.

Also Read: Boney Kapoor adds Mercedes-Benz V-Class worth up to Rs 1.7 crore to his garage

REVEALED: Nearly 2 years after Heeramandi, Manisha Koirala signs Arbaaz Khan’s Raazdar

2 years ago, Manisha Koirala made her grand debut in the OTT space with Heeramandi. She was seen as Mallikajaan in the Sanjay Leela Bhansali-directed Netflix original, and it earned her numerous accolades. The period grand show will complete 2 years on May 1 this year. A few months before the anniversary, the veteran, talented actress began working on her next film, titled Raazdar.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Manisha Koirala’s stint in Heeramandi was quite loved and she was flooded with offers. However, the actress was clear that she wanted to only take up author-backed roles and work with like-minded people. She was in advanced talks for a film featuring a young actor, but it didn’t materialize; the film was also shelved later. Meanwhile, Raazdar came her way and it ticked all the boxes for her. That’s how she signed the film.”

According to Box Office Worldwide, Raazdar went on the floors earlier this year. The film's team completed a 25-day shooting schedule in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh and then shot in Mumbai for 10 days. The article further mentioned that the film stars Arbaaz Khan and Bhuvan Arora of Farzi fame. Arbaaz is also producing the film under his banner, Arbaaz Khan Production.

In an interview with Hindustan Times, Bhuvan Arora confirmed that he shot for Raazdar. The actor is soon going to be a father and while speaking about it, he revealed, “I was working with Arbaaz Khan (in Raazdar), and he also guided me on how to make it easier for the mother, which is the top priority.”

Interestingly, this is not the first time that Manisha Koirala and Arbaaz Khan will share screen space. They were earlier seen in the historical epic Taj Mahal: An Eternal Love Story (2005). In this film, while Arbaaz essayed the role of Aurangzeb, Manisha was seen as Aurangzeb’s sister Jahan Ara.

Raazdar is the seventh film to be produced under Arbaaz Khan Production. The other films made by this banner are Dabangg (2010), Dabangg 2 (2012), Dolly Ki Doli (2015), Dabangg 3 (2019), Patna Shuklla (2024) and Bandaa Singh Chaudhary (2024). Arbaaz also served as the executive producer on the Prime Video documentary, Angry Young Men (2025).

Also Read: “You sculpt feelings”: Manisha Koirala pens heartfelt tribute to Sanjay Leela Bhansali on his birthday

Kartik Aaryan brings home Mercedes-Benz V-Class worth up to Rs 1.7 crore

Actor Kartik Aaryan has added the Mercedes-Benz V-Class to his growing collection of premium vehicles, bringing a new level of comfort-focused practicality to a garage that already includes several performance-oriented and luxury models.

Interestingly, film producer Boney Kapoor also recently brought home the same luxury MPV, highlighting its rising popularity among film industry personalities who prefer spacious, chauffeur-driven vehicles for daily travel.

Kartik Aaryan’s existing car collection already reflects a strong preference for high-performance and premium vehicles. Among these is the McLaren GT, known for its speed and touring capability, the Lamborghini Urus, along with the Range Rover, BMW 5 Series and Mini Cooper.

With the addition of the Mercedes-Benz V-Class, the actor’s garage now includes a vehicle designed primarily for comfort, space and convenience. The move brings balance to his collection by complementing performance-focused machines with a practical luxury people mover suited for everyday city movement and professional commitments. Why the Mercedes-Benz V-Class is a celebrity favourite The Mercedes-Benz V-Class is widely known for its spacious cabin layout and executive-style seating configuration, especially suited for those who prefer chauffeur-driven travel. The six-seater arrangement with captain seats, ambient lighting and advanced suspension enhances long-distance comfort and privacy.

In India, the luxury MPV is typically priced between Rs 1.4 crore and Rs 1.7 crore, depending on the variant and features.

Speaking of the professional front, Kartik has an exciting line-up with multiple films in his pipeline, including NaagZilla and an untitled Anurag Basu directorial musical.

Also Read: Boney Kapoor adds Mercedes-Benz V-Class worth up to Rs 1.7 crore to his garage

Boney Kapoor adds Mercedes-Benz V-Class worth up to Rs 1.7 crore to his garage

Film producer Boney Kapoor has expanded his garage with the addition of a premium new vehicle, the Mercedes-Benz V-Class, a model widely known for its emphasis on comfort, space and chauffeur-driven luxury. The acquisition reflects a growing preference among film personalities for high-end multi-purpose vehicles designed to double as mobile work and relaxation spaces.

A luxury MPV designed for comfort and privacy The Mercedes-Benz V-Class is often described as a private lounge on wheels because of its spacious cabin layout and executive-focused interiors. It is especially popular among celebrities and business leaders who rely on chauffeur-driven travel and require both comfort and discretion during commutes.

In India, the vehicle is available in multiple variants, with prices typically ranging between Rs 1.4 crore and Rs 1.7 crore depending on specifications and customization options. Premium interiors with executive seating One of the defining highlights of the V-Class is its six-seater configuration featuring captain seats in the rear. These seats are designed for long-distance comfort and provide a business-class style travel experience.

The vehicle also includes ambient lighting, advanced suspension tuned for smoother rides and a high-end infotainment system that enhances in-car convenience. Together, these features position the V-Class as a preferred choice for buyers seeking a balance between practicality and luxury. A growing celebrity favourite in Bollywood The Mercedes-Benz V-Class has steadily become a common presence in celebrity garages due to its generous cabin space and privacy-focused layout. For film industry professionals who often travel between studios, meetings and events across the city, the vehicle offers both functionality and prestige.

With this addition, Boney Kapoor joins a long list of prominent personalities who have opted for luxury MPVs as part of their everyday travel setup.

Also Read: Jisshu Sengupta, Karishma Tanna starrer Mom 2 goes on floors at Yamuna Expressway Film City; Boney Kapoor shares details

Chetak Screen Awards 2026 full winners list: Dhurandhar dominates with 14 wins; Homebound takes Best Film

The Chetak Screen Awards 2026 honoured some of the most notable achievements in Indian cinema this year, with Dhurandhar emerging as the biggest winner of the night by taking home 14 trophies across major categories. While Dhurandhar dominated the technical and performance honours, Homebound secured the top prize for Best Film, marking a balanced spread of recognition across the industry’s biggest titles.

Here is the complete winners' list from the ceremony. Major award winners Best Film Homebound

Best Actor (Female) Yami Gautam Dhar – Haq

Best Actor (Male) Ranveer Singh – Dhurandhar

Best Director Aditya Dhar – Dhurandhar

Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Female) Shalini Vatsa – Homebound

Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Male) Akshaye Khanna – Dhurandhar Technical category winners Best Action Aejaz Gulab, Sea Young Oh, Yannick Ben, Ramazan Bulut – Dhurandhar

Best Background Score Shashwat Sachdev – Dhurandhar

Best Choreography Vijay Ganguly – ‘Shararat’ (Dhurandhar)

Best Cinematography Vikash Nowlakha – Dhurandhar

Best Costume Sheetal Iqbal Sharma – Chhaava Smriti Chauhan – Dhurandhar

Best Dialogue Aditya Dhar – Dhurandhar

Best Editing Shivkumar V. Panicker – Dhurandhar

Best Hairstyling and Make-Up Preetisheel Singh D'Souza – Dhurandhar

Best Production Design Saini S. Johray – Dhurandhar

Best Sound Design Bishwadeep Chatterjee – Dhurandhar

Best Special Effects Envision VFX, Philm CGI, Resonance Digital, Dhruti Ranjan Sahoo, Vishal Tyagi, Raza Mohammed Shaikh – Dhurandhar Writing and special recognition Best Film for Gender Sensitivity Haq – Vineet Jain, Vishal Gurnani, Harman Baweja, Juhi Parekh Mehta, Amrita Pandey, Suparn S Varma, Rowena Baweja, Sandeep Singh

Best Film Writing (Story and Screenplay) Basharat Peer, Neeraj Ghaywan, Sumit Roy – Homebound Music category winners Best Song “Title Track” – ‘Saiyaara’ (Tanishk Bagchi, Faheem Abdullah, Arslan Nizami)

Best Lyrics Ul Julool Ishq – Gulzar

Best Playback Singer (Male) Faheem Abdullah – ‘Saiyaara Title Track’

Best Playback Singer (Female) Shreya Ghoshal – ‘Saiyaara Title Track’ Breakthrough winners Breakthrough Debut Director Shazia Iqbal – Dhadak 2

Breakthrough New Actor (Female) Aneet Padda – Saiyaara

Breakthrough New Actor (Male) Ahaan Panday – Saiyaara OTT category winners 📺 Best OTT Film Stolen – Gaurav Dhingra

Best Actor (Female) – OTT Film Sanya Malhotra – Mrs.

Best Actor (Male) – OTT Film Abhishek Banerjee – Stolen

Best Director – OTT Film Karan Tejpal – Stolen

Best Script – OTT Film Karan Tejpal, Gaurav Dhingra, Swapnil Salkar – Stolen

With 14 awards across acting, direction, and multiple technical categories, Dhurandhar emerged as the night’s biggest winner, while Homebound, Saiyaara, and Stolen also secured major honours across theatrical and streaming segments

Also Read: Chetak Screen Awards nominations announced: Dhurandhar leads with 24 nods; Saiyaara, Homebound follow

Bhooth Bangla trailer sneak peek: The return of Akshay Kumar, Priyadarshan and the comedy OGs promises loads of entertainment; Tabu emerges as the surprise package

Last night, Bollywood Hungama got a sneak peek of the trailer of the much-awaited film of the month, Bhooth Bangla, more than 12 hours before its launch today (April 6). The film has already created a buzz due to its horror-comedy genre, casting and more, and the trailer is expected to further enhance the hype around it.

The trailer is around 2 minutes and 58 seconds long and offers a better idea of the premise. The focus, of course, is on the humour quotient. As expected, Akshay Kumar steals the show. There’s no one like him when it comes to comedy, and he proves it yet again. He is ably supported by a stellar cast comprising Rajpal Yadav, Paresh Rawal and the late Asrani. Just seeing all of them together, that too in a Priyadarshan film, is sure to make fans nostalgic and excited. To add to the nostalgia, the makers have used two famous dialogues from Priyadarshan’s memorable comedies of the past, which are sure to be lapped up.

Wamiqa Gabbi and Mithila Palkar get limited screen time, but it’s clear that they, too, have a significant part to play in the narrative. However, the surprise element of the trailer is Tabu. She seems to be the surprise package, and the makers have smartly kept her character under wraps. In fact, it’s evident that a major chunk of the plot, especially the horror element, has not been revealed. Hence, expect horror, comedy and a blend of suspense when the trailer drops at 9:00 pm on April 16.

The postponement of the film by a week led to disappointment among fans. However, the delay could work in the film’s favour, as Dhurandhar The Revenge would have almost exhausted its run by then. A healthy opening seems to be on the cards. Moreover, with no major competition until May 1, Bhooth Bangla will enjoy a clean two-week window to leave a mark at the box office, provided the audience response is favourable.

Also Read: Wamiqa Gabbi to play female lead in Akshay Kumar starrer Bhoot Bangla: Sources

Janhvi Kapoor calls out oversexualisation: “Zooming into body parts without consent is invasive”

Actor Janhvi Kapoor has spoken candidly about being oversexualised in the public eye, addressing concerns around consent, paparazzi culture, and the growing misuse of digital content. During a conversation on the Raj Shamani Podcast, the actress shared how such experiences have shaped her personal and professional decisions.

Recalling a recent interaction with paparazzi, Kapoor said, “I actually had a conversation with paparazzi recently. I told them—this is bad for us, it feels invasive and non-consensual. Even if we dress a certain way, we’re not expecting someone to zoom in on specific body parts. And more than us, it reflects badly on them—that they’re commodifying a woman’s body for money and views.”

While she noted that the photographers appeared receptive, Kapoor acknowledged the issue runs deeper. “They seemed receptive, but the issue is larger—it’s about consumption. Globally, content that objectifies women is the most consumed. That’s why it keeps getting circulated. Since you’re a public figure in glamour, it happens more to you,” she explained.

Highlighting the importance of consent, she drew a distinction between performance and exploitation. “At every stage, you have to ask—what did I consent to? For example, I did a song called ‘Bheegi Saadi’, where I’m dancing sensually in a wet saree. That was meant to be sensual. If someone finds it attractive, that’s fine. But sexualising someone without consent is completely different—and I’m not okay with that.”

Kapoor further pointed out how visuals are often altered without her knowledge. “There are angles and ways things are shot or edited—zoomed, slowed down—without my knowledge. That’s not my consent. Even on film sets, if a camera is placed somewhere I’m not comfortable with, I should be able to say no without being seen as unprofessional,” she said, adding, “Earlier, I was more polite and picked my battles. Now I make my point more clearly—though still politely.”

The actress also addressed how such portrayals affect her career trajectory. “I can’t afford to stop caring, because these perceptions affect audiences, filmmakers, and the opportunities I get. If people keep seeing you in compromising visuals, they form a perception about your character. It’s wrong, but it happens,” she noted.

She added that these perceptions influence casting decisions as well. “Filmmakers also think this way. If they feel you’re already overly visible in a certain way, they might hesitate to cast you. Audience perception directly impacts casting decisions. It’s sad that people judge your values based on your clothes—but that’s the reality.”

Kapoor revealed that she has recently taken steps to limit her public visibility. “In the past couple of months, I’ve gone to great lengths to avoid being photographed. I had three releases back-to-back last year—I felt like people had seen too much of me.”

Despite not actively seeking media attention, she said the volume of content around her remains high. “People say actors call the media—I don’t, except for promotions. But there’s already so much content of me out there that it doesn’t feel like I’ve disappeared at all.”

Concluding her thoughts, Kapoor admitted that the fear of misuse continues to affect her. “I didn’t like how I was being consumed—because of AI, edits, and everything. Even when I post something now, I overthink—will this be misused or edited? I wish I could say I don’t care—but I do.”

For now, she believes caution is necessary. “Right now, I’m not in a position of power where I can completely ignore it. So, I’ll play it safe for now, until I build enough credibility to fully be myself without consequences,” she said.

Also Read: Janhvi Kapoor recalls disturbing early deepfake experience: “I saw a picture of myself on a porn site”

Janhvi Kapoor recalls disturbing early deepfake experience: “I saw a picture of myself on a porn site”

Actor Janhvi Kapoor has candidly spoken about her first encounter with manipulated imagery resembling deepfakes, recalling a deeply unsettling experience from her school days. Appearing on the Raj Shamani Podcast, the actress shared how the incident left a lasting impression on her and shaped her views on digital ethics and consent.

Reflecting on the episode, Kapoor said, “I don’t know if it was technically a deepfake, but it was something like that. I saw a picture of myself on a porn site. We had IT class in school, and the boys used to go on those sites for fun—and my pictures were there. This was while I was still in school. That was a weird experience.”

The actor admitted that the incident forced her to confront the darker realities of being in the public eye at a young age. “At some point, I thought, ‘Why? Is this just the price you have to pay?’ Like there’s no morality in these things. With social media, everyone is just putting things out there. If anything, this new ‘woke’ sensitivity has slightly corrected behaviour in terms of ethics and morality—but largely, it’s still a problem. A lot of people think it’s normal—‘This happens, you’re a public figure, so it will happen’,” she said.

Kapoor also expressed concern over the growing circulation of AI-generated visuals that misrepresent her. “I’m not at peace with it. There are visuals of me out there—circulated even by official news pages—that are completely AI-generated. I’ve never worn those things, I’ve never been photographed like that. But it’s circulated as if it’s real, creating a certain impression,” she revealed.

Highlighting the professional implications, she added, “Tomorrow, if I’m doing a film and I tell a director I’m not comfortable wearing something, they could say, ‘But you’ve already done this—people have seen it.’”

Despite her discomfort, Kapoor acknowledged the limitations she feels in speaking out. “It makes you question what the moral guidelines even are. It upsets me, of course. But I feel like I don’t have enough voice or credibility to complain about it. People might say, ‘You’ve got so much in life, just tolerate this. Don’t complain.’ So I don’t think my voice carries enough weight yet to address it without backlash. But it’s not just me—others have spoken about it too,” she concluded.

Her remarks add to the ongoing conversation around AI misuse, digital consent, and the urgent need for stronger ethical boundaries in the age of rapidly evolving technology.

Also Read: Janhvi Kapoor partners with Amaha to reframe alcohol addiction as a mental health condition, not a moral failing: “The conversation around alcohol is either absent or deeply judgmental”

Ranbir Kapoor opens up on playing both Lord Rama and Parashurama in Ramayana: “It was fantastic”

The anticipation surrounding Ramayana continues to grow, especially after the teaser featuring Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram was unveiled in the United States earlier this week. During the event, the actor interacted with the media and offered insights into one of the most intriguing aspects of the film—his dual role as both Lord Rama and Lord Parashurama in Nitesh Tiwari’s ambitious magnum opus.

While Ranbir Kapoor is primarily expected to portray Lord Rama, reports suggest that he will also be seen as Lord Parashurama in a brief yet significant appearance. The actor spoke about the mythological connection between the two characters, both of whom are considered incarnations of Lord Vishnu.

“Lord Vishnu had different avatars. Lord Rama was an avatar, and Lord Parshurama was an avatar before Lord Rama." Sharing his excitement about getting the opportunity to portray both roles, Ranbir highlighted how rare and creatively fulfilling the experience has been for him as an actor. “Just to get the opportunity, you know, how I got to play Lord Rama, to also play Lord Parshurama was fantastic. I think as an actor, apart from body language, I think if you deeply understand the spirituality and the emotionality of the characters, I think everything starts from there. I think that’s what I did the year leading up to the shoot of Ramayana, to understand who these people and characters are, what they stand for and what their motives are."

Ranbir Officially Confirms He is Playing Bhagwan Parshuram!#Ramayana pic.twitter.com/n2WxVroeP0 — RK🐰 (@rksbunny) April 3, 2026

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana is being mounted on a grand scale and is widely regarded as one of the most ambitious adaptations of the ancient Indian epic. The film aims to bring the timeless story of Lord Rama—his journey, ideals, and battle against evil—to a global audience with cutting-edge visuals and a large ensemble cast.

The inclusion of Parashurama, an earlier avatar of Vishnu known for his fierce temperament and warrior spirit, adds an additional mythological layer to the narrative. Though expected to appear briefly, the character holds symbolic importance within the larger context of the epic.

Ranbir Kapoor’s preparation for the role has reportedly involved extensive physical training as well as a deep dive into the philosophical and emotional underpinnings of the characters. His emphasis on understanding spirituality reflects the film’s attempt to go beyond spectacle and present a more nuanced portrayal of these revered figures.

As excitement builds around the project, Ramayana continues to remain one of the most closely watched films in development, with audiences eager to see how this iconic tale is reimagined for the big screen.

Also Read: Ramayana: Dipika Chikhlia reacts to Lord Rama’s teaser; says, “It’s very grand, very beautiful,” says OG Sita

SCOOP: Sequel of Kangana Ranaut-starrer Queen likely to be titled Queen Forever

A few days ago, reports came in that the sequel to Kangana Ranaut’s iconic film, Queen (2014), is in the works. According to the article in Mid-Day, the film will be directed by Vikas Bahl, who also helmed the first part, and is set to go on floors in April. Bollywood Hungama has learned that the film won't be called Queen 2 and that the makers have a title in mind.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “The makers had several options for the film’s title and the one that has really caught their eye is Queen Forever. If all goes well, this will be what the film will be called.”

The source continued, “The makers feel Queen Forever is the apt title and that it suits the film’s subject. They are expected to finalize it very soon and make an official announcement, hopefully before the film’s shoot begins.”

Bollywood Hungama has also learned that Amit Chandrra of Trigger Happy Entertainment will be producing Queen Forever. His banner, Trigger Happy Studios, earlier produced the Farhan Akhtar-starrer 120 Bahadur along with Excel Entertainment.

As per the Mid-Day story, in Queen’s sequel, Kangana Ranaut’s character, Rani, will not go to foreign shores. Instead, she’ll travel to different cities across India while also embarking on a journey of self-discovery.

About Queen Besides Kangana Ranaut, Queen also starred Rajkummar Rao, Lisa Haydon, Nayani Dixit and others. It was produced by Vikramaditya Motwane and Anurag Kashyap of Phantom Films, along with Viacom18 Motion Pictures, and told the story of a girl left devastated after her fiancé calls off their wedding at the last minute. Nevertheless, she decides to go on her honeymoon alone. How this trip transforms her life completely formed the rest of the film.

Queen emerged as a pathbreaking film and was loved for its subject, progressive theme, treatment, award-winning performance by Kangana Ranaut and music by Amit Trivedi. The film opened at just Rs. 1.75 crores and then went on to earn Rs. 61 crores in its lifetime through sheer word of mouth. It was also a rare film in the 2010s to collect more in Week 2 than in Week 1.

Also Read: Vicky Kaushal, Kangana Ranaut and others shower love on Dhurandhar franchise; applaud Aditya Dhar and his work

BREAKING: Anurag Kashyap’s Dev D to re-release on April 24

In the pre-Gangs Of Wasseypur (2012) era, it was Dev D (2009) that made Anurag Kashyap a force to reckon with. It attained a cult following and 17 years after its release, it's all set to re-release in cinemas on April 24.

As per an article in Bombay Times, the Abhay Deol-Kalki Koechlin-Mahie Gill starrer will be back on the big screen, but only in select theatres. It also carried quotes of Anurag Kashyap, Abhay Deol, Kalki Koechlin and music director Amit Trivedi. Anurag said, “To see Dev D return to the big screen feels special. It’s a film meant to be experienced collectively with Amit Trivedi’s music and Rajeev Ravi’s cinematography powering the narrative. I am curious to see how the new generation responds to it.”

Kalki Koechlin revealed, “I remember being so nervous about my Hindi lines that every morning on set, I would practise all my vowels and consonants in Devanagari to get the pronunciation right. The best part about shooting the film was not knowing anything about filmmaking, because it meant I didn’t care about the camera angle or how I looked on camera.”

Interestingly, it was lead actor Abhay Deol who suggested the idea of the film to Anurag. He explained, “I remember when I would narrate the idea of Dev D, the most common reaction I got was that it was ‘too arty’ to be made. When I narrated it to Anurag, I didn’t tell him it was a contemporary treatment. I just narrated a love story. He did not guess what I was actually narrating, and when I revealed that it was a contemporary Devdas, he went quiet for 20 minutes, imagining it in his head. He loved the idea of treating it with a musical score that would take the story forward, one song at a time. Although he went with a different ending (my idea remains Dev dying in the end), my thought was to call out Devdas’ misogyny and highlight the women’s resilience. It’s my only idea that got made into a movie.”

Amit Trivedi’s career also got a boost with Dev D. He stated, “Each song was deeply rooted in the narrative, whether it was the wild energy of ‘Emosanal Attyachaar’ or the quiet ache of ‘Nayan Tarse’. When the film was released, something shifted for me and helped me find my voice as a composer.”

About Dev D Dev D was a contemporary reimagining of the classic Bengali novel Devdas by Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay and was produced by Ronnie Screwvala. While Abhay Deol played Dev, Mahie Gill essayed the role of Paro. Kalki Koechlin was launched with this film and she played Chanda. Nawazuddin Siddiqui featured in an entertaining cameo as a band singer in the song ‘Emosanal Attyachar’.

Also Read: Tanuja picks ‘director’ Aditya Dhar over Ranveer Singh as the hero of ‘Dhurandhar’; calls it a ‘landmark’ film in fun review with Tanishaa Mukerji

SCOOP: Awarapan 2 locks Independence Day 2026 release; Emraan Hashmi returns as Shivam

The Emraan Hashmi and Disha Patani led Awarapan 2 is among the keenly awaited films of 2026. A sequel to Awarapan, the film has been trending on Book My Show and Instagram as the makers had earlier announced an April 3 release. Since the shoot is still pending, we have exclusively learnt that a new release date of Awarapan 2 is locked.

Reliable sources confirm that Awarapan 2 is all set to hit the big screen during the Independence Day 2026 weekend. "Awarapan 2 has shaped up well as a musical intense love story with Emraan Hashmi, and Disha Patani. The makers were considering several release dates, and have finally decided on Independence Day weekend," the source told Bollywood Hungama.

Awarapan 2 is presently on floors, and the shoot is expected to be wrapped up by the end of April. Following two months of post-production, the makers are all set to bring it during the festive period of Independence Day.

For those unaware, Awarapan has gained a cult status over the years, with songs becoming evergreen for the cinema-going audiences. For the sequel too, the makers have recreated two songs from the original album, and they are said to be among the major highlights. Awarapan 2 is directed by Nitin Kakkar.

Also Read: REVEALED: Not Emraan Hashmi or Akshay Kumar, this actor plays Bade Sahab in Dhurandhar The Revenge

Rajpal Yadav faces fresh legal heat: Delhi High Court reserves verdict in Rs. 6 crores cheque bounce dispute

Bollywood actor Rajpal Yadav has once again found himself in legal trouble, with the Delhi High Court reserving its verdict in an ongoing cheque bounce case filed by a private company.

The matter was heard on Thursday, where the court appeared visibly dissatisfied with the actor’s changing stance on clearing his dues. The judge indicated that while Yadav claimed he was ready to pay, his legal team’s arguments suggested otherwise, creating confusion around his actual position.

During the proceedings, the court questioned why the case was still being argued if the actor was genuinely willing to settle the amount. The judge also refused to grant additional time when Yadav requested 30 days to arrange Rs. 6 crores, making it clear that no further delays would be entertained.

This case dates back to 2024, when a sessions court had found Yadav guilty in a cheque bounce matter and sentenced him to six months in jail. The High Court had later paused his sentence after he assured that he would resolve the dispute financially, even referring the matter to mediation for a possible settlement.

However, the situation escalated when the court observed that multiple assurances made by the actor were not fulfilled. Despite seeking time on several occasions, Yadav reportedly failed to deposit key amounts he had committed to, including a significant sum he had proposed to pay in instalments.

By early 2026, the court had taken a stricter stance, directing him to surrender due to non-compliance with its orders. His plea for more time was turned down, leading to his surrender in February. He remained in custody until he secured temporary relief after depositing ₹1.5 crore with the complainant.

During the latest hearing, the company’s legal representative argued that completing a jail sentence does not cancel the responsibility to repay the pending amount. It was also pointed out that a large portion of the agreed money still remains unpaid, with dues reportedly standing at around Rs. 7.75 crores, even after earlier payments.

The court explored the possibility of resolving the matter through a one-time settlement and suggested a reduced figure of Rs. 6 crores. The complainant showed openness to this proposal, indicating a willingness to close the case if the amount was paid promptly.

Yadav, who appeared via video conference, stated that he would follow any direction issued by the court regarding payment. At the same time, he claimed to have suffered heavy financial losses, mentioning that he had already paid a much larger amount and even sold multiple properties to manage his obligations.

Despite these claims, the court remained firm on its stance and declined to allow more time for payment. With both sides unable to reach a final agreement during the hearing, the court decided to reserve its judgment, bringing the high-profile case to a crucial turning point.

Also Read: Radha Yadav recalls meeting Rajpal Yadav in Canada: “We didn’t know at that time that we would get married”

EXCLUSIVE: R Madhavan sneaks into Mumbai’s Chitra Cinema to watch Dhurandhar The Revenge; here’s how he made sure moviegoers didn’t realize he was seated among them

For a celebrity, watching their own film in a theatre is always a risk, as there’s the fear of being recognized by the audience, which can lead to chaos. This is especially true in single-screen cinemas. But at the same time, that’s where one gets to witness the most electric audience response. Two days ago, on April 1, R Madhavan weighed the pros and cons and took the plunge. He watched his film, Dhurandhar The Revenge, with the audience at a single-screen theatre in Mumbai. Usually, actors prefer visiting G7, aka Gaiety-Galaxy. However, R Madhavan chose Chitra Cinema in Dadar instead.

Yesterday, on April 2, film exhibitor and distributor Akshaye Rathi posted a story where the actor can be seen enjoying the film. Sometime later, he also posted a picture where R Madhavan is seen posing with Akshaye Rathi and a few more friends in the lobby of Chitra.

After the story and post were uploaded, Bollywood Hungama spoke to Akshaye Rathi. He said, “R Madhavan was keen to get a first-hand experience of how the audience was reacting to Dhurandhar The Revenge. That’s why we chose Chitra Cinema. It attracts the masses and, at the same time, its sound, picture quality and seating are top-class.”

On April 1, @ActorMadhavan secretly watched #DhurandharTheRevenge at Mumbai's Chitra Cinema with @akshayerathi and a few friends. Video Courtesy: Story uploaded by Akshaye Rathi on April 2 pic.twitter.com/XdyiYfPugM

— Fenil Seta (@fenil_seta) April 3, 2026

Akshaye continued, “We knew that if people realized R Madhavan was seated among them, it would become an issue, especially since we weren’t accompanied by any security personnel or bouncers. Hence, we entered the theatre a few minutes after the film had begun. He also wore a cap and hoodie while entering the auditorium. As expected, the staff and the patrons didn’t realize that the actor had visited the cinema hall. However, the manager was informed about his presence.”

Akshaye Rathi then said, “In the intermission, R Madhavan stepped out in the F&B area. This is when some patrons recognized him. However, the actor was quickly ushered into the manager’s cabin. He left from there only when the second half began. The actor is always more than happy to meet the fans and aam junta. But he realized that if word would spread about his presence, it would have caused issues.”

 

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  A post shared by Akkshay Rathie / अक्षय राठी 🇮🇳 (@akshayerathi)

Before the credits rolled, R Madhavan exited the theatre. His mission was successful, much like that of his character, Ajay Sanyal, in the film.

The story uploaded by Akshaye Rathi also revealed that the actor was seated in the last row of the balcony, next to the exit. This, too, was meticulously planned so that he could enter and leave without drawing anyone’s attention.

Also Read: R Madhavan reacts to the praise showered by Allu Arjun on him and Dhurandhar: The Revenge; calls it ‘super super special’ at a pivotal moment

After Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn drives home the Rs 1.40 crore Mercedes-Benz V-Class on his 57th birthday

Move over, Shah Rukh Khan. Well, almost. The Mercedes-Benz V-Class has only been on Indian roads since late March 2026, and it has already become the must-have luxury MPV for India's biggest celebrities. First, it was cricketer Hardik Pandya who snapped one up for his girlfriend Mahieka Sharma. Then Shah Rukh Khan drove home an Obsidian Black example that was spotted outside his temporary residence Puja Casa. And now, completing a hat-trick of high-profile acquisitions, Ajay Devgn has become the latest and arguably most perfectly timed celebrity to add the Rs 1.40 crore Mercedes-Benz V-Class to his garage. The occasion? His own 57th birthday on April 2. Because some men send themselves flowers, and some men send themselves a rolling German palace.

The timing could not be more fitting. On the morning of April 2, thousands of fans had already assembled outside Devgn's Juhu residence, Shivshakti, holding banners and chanting his name in scenes that made the bungalow look more like a concert venue. When the actor stepped out hands folded, smile quiet and warm it was a reminder that after 35 years and over 100 films, few stars in Hindi cinema command this kind of unfiltered public love. Later that day, the news broke that Devgn had gifted himself the V-Class, and the internet, predictably, went into overdrive. Fans noted that only Ajay Devgn could make buying a car feel like a Singham entrance.

The V-Class story in India has moved fast. Mercedes-Benz launched the luxury MPV in early March 2026 at an introductory ex-showroom price of Rs 1.40 crore the first time the model has returned to the Indian market in four years and deliveries began almost immediately. Within weeks, it had already found its way into some of the most famous garages in the country. Pandya was first off, the blocks, followed swiftly by Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan who selected the stealth Obsidian Black shade. Devgn's acquisition now cements the V-Class's status as the unofficial celebrity MPV of 2026.

And what a vehicle it is. The Mercedes-Benz V-Class Extra Long Wheelbase is marketed as a "private suite on wheels" and once you look at the feature list, the description feels entirely earned. The cabin, available in four or six-seat configurations, is built around an extraordinary rear passenger experience. Lounge seats with electrically adjustable recline, ventilation, heating, and massage functions are standard. Three-zone climate control, dual 12.3-inch screens for infotainment and instrumentation, wireless charging pads, 64-colour ambient lighting, and a 640W Burmester 15-speaker system with Dolby Atmos round out an interior that puts many hotel suites to shame.

The V-Class sits atop a 2.0-litre engine available in both petrol mild-hybrid (231 bhp) and diesel (237 bhp) guises, both mated to a 9-speed automatic gearbox. The peak torque figure of 500 Nm ensures effortless highway cruising appropriate for a vehicle that has no intention of ever being in a hurry. Safety credentials are equally robust: seven airbags, a 360-degree camera, Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, and traffic sign recognition are all standard, contributing to its five-star Euro NCAP rating.

For Devgn, the V-Class slots naturally alongside a garage that already reflects his well-established taste for powerful, authoritative vehicles. His collection includes a Mercedes-Benz GLS, a Mercedes-Benz S-Class, a Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600, an Audi Q7, and a BMW X7 a fleet built on substance and quiet command rather than flashy horsepower figures. The V-Class is, if anything, the most refined expression of that philosophy: a vehicle that says everything without raising its voice. Very Ajay Devgn, in other words.

Also Read: Ajay Devgn’s Lens Vault Studios unveils AI short film ‘Happy Birthday Joshi’ on his birthday