Thamma set for World Television Premiere on Sony MAX on March 21, 2026

Thamma, a genre-bending supernatural romance, reimagines love through an unexpected lens, blending emotion, mystery and mythology into a deeply human story. Flipping the classic Beauty and the Beast trope, the film explores beauty, vulnerability and the idea of the ‘beast’ in a fresh, contemporary way. Don’t miss the world television premiere of Thamma only on Sony MAX on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 8 PM.

On the occasion of the world television premiere of Thamma on Sony MAX, Director Aditya Sarpotdar shares that he had always wanted to collaborate with Ayushmann Khurrana. “From the very beginning, he was my first and only choice. Ayushmann has an inherent emotional honesty that allows audiences to instantly connect with him, even in the most unconventional worlds. We needed an actor who could ground an out-of-the-world narrative with sincerity and depth, and he does that effortlessly. His ability to make the extraordinary feel relatable made it easy to convince him, and I truly believe he brings a rare warmth and believability to this supernatural romance,” he says.

Ayushmann Khurrana plays Alok Goyal, a city-based journalist whose routine life is upended when he falls in love with Tadaka/Tarika, played by Rashmika Mandanna. Thamma is the fifth installment in the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe, and comes after Stree, Roohi, Bhediya, Munjya and Stree 2. The film was helmed by Munjya director Aditya Sarpotdar and also stars Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Paresh Rawal and Sathyaraj in pivotal roles.

Don’t miss the world television premiere Thamma only on Sony MAX on Saturday, 21st March 2026 at 8 PM.

Also Read: Western Railway earns RECORD Rs. 1.72 cr through film and ad shoots in 2025-26; spokesperson reveals, “Shoojit Sircar FIRST filmmaker to shoot aboard Vande Bharat; John Abraham’s Maria IPS and Ayushmann Khurrana-Sharvari’s Yeh Prem Mol Liya shot on WR premises”

Singer-Composer Leslee Lewis makes Bollywood playback comeback after 26 years

Veteran singer-composer Leslee Lewis is set to make a comeback as a playback singer in Hindi cinema after a gap of 26 years, marking a significant moment in his long musical journey. Known for shaping India’s Indi-pop movement in the 1990s, Lewis is returning with the song Zorr Ka Dhakka, which will mark his re-entry into Bollywood playback singing.

Lewis rose to national fame as part of the iconic duo Colonial Cousins alongside Hariharan. Their fusion of Indian classical and Western pop in the mid-1990s helped redefine the independent music scene in India and earned them international recognition, including the MTV Asia Viewer’s Choice Award and the Billboard Viewer’s Choice Award.

Speaking about his return, Lewis shared his excitement about reconnecting with Bollywood after decades. “I was relevant then and I’m still relevant now,” he said while discussing his comeback and his continued passion for music. He added that singing for a composition by another musician after so many years feels refreshing and gives him the opportunity to explore a different creative process.

Over the years, Lewis has remained active in music through independent projects, composing advertising jingles and working on various albums and collaborations. His contribution to India’s pop and fusion music landscape extends beyond Bollywood, with several successful independent releases and musical experiments. Reflecting on the evolution of the music industry, Lewis noted that while trends may change, the essence of music remains the same. “What keeps you going is authenticity and passion,” he said, emphasising that originality continues to matter in an industry often driven by formulas. With his upcoming playback track, the veteran musician hopes to reconnect with audiences across generations.

Also Read: Leslee Lewis on returning to playback singing in Hindi films after 26 years with ‘Zorr Ka Dhakka’, “It’s exciting to be back, whole track is so cool”; also says he has been putting “zero efforts” to stay relevant for 30 years

Alia Bhatt, Sharvari starrer Alpha locks July 10, 2026 for its theatrical release

The upcoming YRF Spy Universe film Alpha, starring Alia Bhatt and Sharvari, has officially locked its theatrical release date. The much-anticipated spy thriller is scheduled to hit cinemas on July 10, 2026, marking a significant addition to the blockbuster franchise created by Yash Raj Films.

Directed by Shiv Rawail, Alpha is expected to be the first female-led installment in the YRF Spy Universe, which previously delivered major box-office successes with films such as Pathaan and War 2. The film places two women at the centre of a high-octane espionage narrative, expanding the scope of the franchise that has so far largely revolved around male protagonists.

While the makers have kept specific plot details under wraps, the film is described as a gritty, globe-trotting espionage thriller. The narrative reportedly follows Alia Bhatt and Sharvari as elite secret agents undertaking a high-stakes mission. Unlike some of the more stylised entries in the spy franchise, Alpha is said to adopt a rugged and raw aesthetic, focusing on a more grounded and intense depiction of field intelligence operations.

 

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The film also brings together a strong ensemble cast. With Alia, Sharvari leading the narrative, Bobby Deol is set to play the primary antagonist. The actor’s role was previously teased through a brief appearance in the post-credits sequence of War 2. Veteran actor Anil Kapoor will also be seen in the film, portraying Vikrant Kaul, a senior intelligence official within the story’s spy network. Additionally, Hrithik Roshan is expected to make a special appearance, reprising his role as Major Kabir Dhaliwal, further connecting the film with the broader timeline of the YRF Spy Universe.

Behind the scenes, the screenplay has been written by Shridhar Raghavan, who has been associated with several action-driven projects. The film is being mounted on a large scale, with extensive action set pieces and visual effects work forming a key part of its cinematic experience.

Alpha has seen multiple shifts in its release schedule. The film was initially slated for a Christmas 2025 release before being moved to April 17, 2026. The project has now settled on the July 10, 2026 date, allowing the makers additional time to complete its extensive visual effects work.

Addressing speculation surrounding the delay, a YRF spokesperson said the team wanted to ensure the film was presented at its best possible scale, adding that Alpha is being mounted as a major theatrical spectacle and that the studio aims to present it in its most cinematic form.

Also Read: Aditya Chopra makes way for Salman Khan, moves Alpha from April 17th for Battle of Galwan!

Darsheel Safary joins Mohit Raina and Priya Mani in upcoming international film based on a true story

Actor Darsheel Safary has officially joined the cast of an upcoming cross-border international feature film that also stars Mohit Raina and National Award-winning actor Priya Mani. The yet-untitled project is being mounted as a global co-production between Mumbai-based Azure Entertainment and US-based Red Bison Productions.

The film will mark the first on-screen collaboration between Mohit Raina and Priya Mani, bringing together two performers known for their work across both theatrical cinema and streaming platforms. With Darsheel Safary joining the ensemble, the project brings together actors from different cinematic spaces, spanning mainstream films, prestige streaming content, and internationally recognised storytelling formats.

According to the makers, the film is positioned as a premium international project and is expected to be released on a global streaming platform. The story will reportedly explore themes of identity, resilience, and human connection across borders while blending cinematic scale with intimate human drama.

Darsheel Safary, who gained worldwide recognition with his debut performance in Taare Zameen Par, is said to play a key role in the narrative. Sources close to the production indicate that his character will act as an emotional bridge between the Indian and international worlds portrayed in the film, forming a central part of the story’s emotional arc.

Speaking about joining the project, Darsheel Safary shared, “This story moved me deeply. It speaks about courage, vulnerability, and choices that define who we become. I’m grateful to be part of a film that transcends geography and speaks to universal emotions.”

The untitled feature is based on a true story and will follow the emotional journey of an immigrant family navigating questions of identity, belonging, and life beyond the traditional idea of the American Dream. The narrative is described by the makers as intimate yet cinematic, focusing on themes that resonate across cultures and geographies.

The project is written and directed by Harsh Mahadeshwar and is currently in advanced pre-production. Principal photography is scheduled to commence later this year, with the film expected to be shot across multiple international locations. The production will be backed by an international team spanning India and the United States, with the makers aiming to combine high production values with a global distribution strategy.

Azure Entertainment, known for producing films such as Badla, Kesari, and Rocky Handsome, is collaborating with Red Bison Productions to bring the story to the screen. With its cross-border narrative and internationally mounted production, the film aims to appeal to audiences both in India and overseas.

Also Read: Mohit Raina and Priya Mani to star in first Indo-Hollywood collaboration by Azure Entertainment and Red Bison

Neena Gupta reacts to pregnancy rumours after viral photos

Veteran actress Neena Gupta was seen looking radiant at the wedding reception of Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda. However, what truly caught the internet’s attention was a noticeable bump that quickly sparked pregnancy rumours on social media.

When this writer reached out to the outspoken actress, Neena Gupta burst into laughter. “This is all I need, a real-life Badhai Ho,” she joked. For those who may recall, Neena Gupta famously played a woman who becomes pregnant in her 60s in the hit film Badhaai Ho.

Turning serious after the joke, the actress clarified, “There is no Badhai Ho. I am not pregnant. The truth is, the saree material was thick, so it made me look bulky at the reception. But I must say, I love all this speculation about my pregnancy at my age. It shows we are evolving as a nation.”

Also Read: Neena Gupta and Sanjay Mishra overwhelmed as Vadh 2 enters 3rd week: “The love is pouring in the form of messages, reviews, recommendations”

Vivek Oberoi praises UAE leadership and Emirates crew amid Israel–Iran tensions: “Moved to tears”

Actor Vivek Oberoi has spoken about the situation in Dubai amid the ongoing tensions linked to the Israel–Iran conflict. After Lara Dutta shared her perspective earlier, Oberoi also took to social media to address his fans and followers, highlighting the efforts of the Government of the United Arab Emirates in supporting residents during the situation.

The actor shared a video on Instagram along with a note thanking the leadership and airline staff who helped maintain calm during the tense period. In the caption, he wrote, “My deepest gratitude to the UAE leadership, the frontline heroes, and the wings of @emirates for their incredible guardianship. It’s good to be back.”

In the video, Oberoi reflected on what the recent days felt like for residents of the country. He said, “For all of us from over 200 nationalities who live here, UAE is simply home. These past few days, as geopolitical tensions grew, the distance between where I was and where my family waited felt heavier than ever. Returning to Dubai, I felt every person on that Emirates plane had a silent story in their eyes.”

Speaking about the flight crew and the emotional atmosphere during the journey, he added, “Hats off to the Emirates crew for maintaining the calm and taking care of everyone with a smile despite their own fears. The moment we touched down, the atmosphere shifted from silent anxiety to a collective surge of relief. Walking through the terminal, I couldn't help but be moved to tears as I saw daughters throwing themselves into the parents' arms and fathers finally lifting their little ones into the air.”

 

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The actor also spoke about the anxiety he experienced while thinking about his children during the journey. “I had spent the entire journey with my own heart racing, my thoughts fixed entirely on my kids. A heartfelt thank you Emirates for being the bridge that brought us back together in a world that felt like it was shifting, you remained constant. Thank you for the safety you carry in your wings and for providing the quiet peace we all needed to find our way back.”

Expressing gratitude to the country’s leadership, Oberoi further said, “Today, I am more grateful than ever for the resilience of the UAE government in the face of global uncertainty. Your steady leadership and unwavering calm provided the safety we needed to come back. You have built a nation that doesn't just function, it protects.”

He concluded his message by acknowledging the country’s support for Indian residents. “As a proud Indian, on behalf of all the Indians settled in the UAE, thank you for keeping us safe and for standing with us as one of us rather than just meeting from a distance. Thank you.”

Oberoi’s post comes as several public figures continue to share their experiences and messages of reassurance for residents amid the evolving geopolitical situation in the region.

Also Read: Lara Dutta reveals stressful days in Dubai amid Israel–Iran conflict; thanks UAE government for protection

EXCLUSIVE: John Abraham’s ACP Yashvardhan returns! Harshvardhan Rane and Tanya Maniktala join the Force 3 huddle in viral LEAKED image

The wait is finally over for fans of raw, grounded action. A leaked image from the sets of the highly anticipated Force 3 has set social media ablaze, offering a first glimpse into the world of ACP Yashvardhan Singh’s return. The candid shot, captured during a creative discussion, features the franchise spearhead John Abraham alongside the new additions to the Force family: the current box-office favourite Harshvardhan Rane and the versatile Tanya Maniktala.

Standing at the centre of the frame is the man tasked with modernizing this iconic franchise—director Bhav Dhulia. Having earned massive acclaim for his gritty realism in Khakee: The Bihar Chapter, Dhulia’s presence suggests that Force 3 will pivot away from stylized stunts toward the hard-hitting, "desi" action that made the 2011 original a cult classic.

The biggest talking point of the leak is undoubtedly that Harshvardhan Rane looks ready for duty. Fresh off the massive success of Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat, Rane has been vocal about his admiration for John Abraham, often referring to him as a mentor.

Adding that bit of glamour to the action is Tanya Maniktala, known for her soulful and nuanced performances in A Suitable Boy and Kill, her inclusion marks a significant shift for the franchise. Dressed in an elegant yet practical ethnic outfit in the photo, industry insiders suggest her character is far from a traditional "flowerpot" role.

While plot details are being guarded with the utmost secrecy, a well-paced industry source shared an exciting update, "The film is officially going on floors this March, and the scale is massive. The audience can expect high-octane action that stays true to the franchise’s roots."

With John Abraham having reacquired the rights to the franchise to ensure it stays true to his vision, Force 3 is shaping up to be the definitive action event of late 2026.

Also Read: Harshvardhan Rane joins John Abraham starrer Force franchise; actor reveals he will take the legacy forward

Ranveer Singh announces Dhurandhar: The Revenge trailer launch for March 7; actor asks fans to ‘brace themselves’

Actor Ranveer Singh has officially announced the trailer launch of his upcoming action thriller Dhurandhar: The Revenge. Taking to Instagram, the actor shared a new poster from the film while revealing that the trailer will be unveiled on Saturday, March 7, at precisely 11:01 AM.

The poster shared by the actor includes the exact timing of the launch, hinting at a carefully planned promotional rollout for the film. Along with the visual, Ranveer kept his caption short but intriguing, writing, “Brace Yourself,” which has further heightened curiosity among fans awaiting the sequel.

The film serves as the continuation of Dhurandhar (2025), which emerged as a major box-office success and helped establish the franchise as a significant entry in the spy-action genre. With the first installment receiving a strong response, expectations around the second part have grown considerably over the past year.

Interestingly, the film’s theatrical prospects appear to have strengthened after the release date shift of Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups, starring Yash. The latter was initially expected to arrive around the same period but has since been postponed to June, giving Dhurandhar: The Revenge a clearer window at the box office.

Directed, written and co-produced by Aditya Dhar, the film is backed by producers Jyoti Deshpande, Aditya Dhar and Lokesh Dhar. The project is produced under the banners of Jio Studios and B62 Studios. The film is positioned as the second and concluding chapter of the Dhurandhar duology.

 

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Apart from Ranveer Singh, the film features a multi-starrer cast including Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, R. Madhavan, Sara Arjun, Rakesh Bedi, Danish Pandor and Gaurav Gera, along with several actors reprising their roles from the first installment.

Both parts of the franchise were reportedly shot simultaneously, allowing the makers to maintain narrative continuity between the two films. The sequel is expected to delve deeper into the character arc of Jaskirat Singh Rangi and explore his transformation into Hamza Ali Mazari, a development that forms a crucial part of the storyline.

With the trailer set to arrive this weekend, the promotional campaign for the film is now entering its next phase. Dhurandhar: The Revenge is scheduled to release in cinemas worldwide on March 19, 2026, in multiple languages including Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Malayalam.

Also Read: The Grahan effect: The real reason why Dhurandhar: The Revenge’s trailer won’t release on March 3

Preity Zinta sells Pali Hill apartment for Rs 18.5 crores months after previous property deal

Actor Preity Zinta has reportedly sold an apartment in Mumbai’s upscale Pali Hill neighbourhood in Bandra for Rs 18.50 crores. The transaction details emerged through property registration documents reviewed by real estate data analytics platform CRE Matrix.

The property is located in the Rustomjee Parishram building and measures approximately 1,770 square feet. Records indicate that the transaction was officially registered on March 2, 2026. The apartment was purchased by Priya Nagar and Rajeev Nagar, who are US citizens of Indian origin. As part of the transaction process, the buyers paid a stamp duty amount of Rs 1.11 crore, along with a registration fee of Rs 30,000, according to the documents.

This marks the second property sale by the actor within a span of four months. In November 2025, property registration records had shown that Zinta sold another apartment in the same building for more than Rs. 14 crore. That unit, measuring around 1,474 square feet, was also located on the 11th floor of the building. The apartment involved in the latest transaction was allotted to Zinta in April 2025 after the redevelopment of her earlier residential building. Following the redevelopment process, the actor received the apartment as part of a standard housing arrangement provided to existing residents.

According to CRE Matrix, the allotment of the apartment was formalised under a redevelopment agreement between the housing society and developer Keystone Realtors, which operates under the brand Rustomjee. The redevelopment project resulted in the construction of the current building where the actor had been allotted her residence. "Under a redevelopment agreement between the society and the developer (Keystone Realtors/Rustomjee), the flat was officially allotted to her as Permanent Alternate Accommodation. This arrangement was formalised in an agreement executed on October 23, 2023," CRE Matrix said.

Zinta has owned property in the building for several years and received the redeveloped apartment through the allotment process associated with the project. The actor, who divides her time between India and overseas commitments, has not publicly commented on the latest property transaction so far.

Zinta, known for her work in films such as Kal Ho Naa Ho and Veer-Zaara, continues to remain active across business and entertainment ventures while maintaining a relatively low profile in terms of real estate investments and property dealings. The actress is currently gearing for her big screen comeback alongside Sunny Deol in Lahore 1947 that is directed by Rajkumar Santoshi and produced by Aamir Khan.

Also Read: Preity Zinta shares relief while celebrating Holi: “So grateful to be back home in Mumbai after a very stressful trip”

Lara Dutta reveals stressful days in Dubai amid Israel–Iran conflict; thanks UAE government for protection

Former beauty queen and actor Lara Dutta recently shared a long video on social media describing the tense situation in Dubai amid the ongoing escalation in the Israel–Iran conflict 2026 escalation. In the video, the actor spoke about witnessing explosions and missile interceptions while also expressing gratitude to the government of the United Arab Emirates for ensuring residents feel protected during the crisis.

Dutta revealed that she has been in Dubai since the beginning of the conflict and has spent considerable time in the city over the past few years. The actor is currently there with her daughter, while her husband, former tennis champion Mahesh Bhupathi, has been travelling for work. “We have been in Dubai since the start of this Israel-Iran war, what's being termed the Israel-Iran war. UAE, Dubai, has been my home now for the last three years. I have spent a considerable amount of time here. I was actually shooting on the 28th at a studio in Dubai,” Lara said in the video.

Recalling the moment she realised the situation had escalated, the actor described hearing explosions while she was working on set. “We started hearing the explosions overhead, ran out of the studio, and saw missiles being intercepted. It's been a few, I can't lie, stressful days. I have my daughter here with me, Mahesh was away for work, he wasn't in Dubai thankfully.” Dutta also admitted that the past few days have been unsettling, particularly with fighter jets flying overhead and loud blasts being heard across the city. Despite the tense environment, she said she has not felt unsafe.

“But I just want to say that we are nervous, and it's been scary. Lots of fighter jets flying overhead, lots of loud booms. Though we live in a villa in a very safe neighbourhood, the windows shake, the house and the doors rattle, and it's unnerving. But I haven't felt unsafe, not even once.” While speaking about the response from authorities, the actor praised the UAE government for its efforts to ensure the safety and reassurance of residents. “I just want to say that the UAE government has done an incredible job. I think, for every single person – I won't speak for anybody else – we felt really looked after. We felt wanted, we felt protected, regardless of our nationality or where we're from.”

“We feel like we count, we matter. The UAE government, as a resident, as somebody living in this city, is making sure they do everything in their power to protect us and keep us safe. I'm amazed. My gardener has been showing up every day mowing up my lawn, watering the plants,” she added. Dutta also spoke about her admiration for ordinary workers who continue their daily routines despite the tense circumstances.

 

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“I've so much respect and admiration for just ordinary, normal people who don't have a choice of looking at wanting to get out, who are keeping this country running.” At the same time, the actor revealed that she and her family are currently exploring flight options to return to Mumbai, primarily because the situation has been particularly stressful for children. “We are actually looking at flights; there aren't too many, but there are some, Etihad and Emirates. But we are looking at flights to try and get back to Mumbai. More so, because I think the kids are a lot more nervous about this. We are as well, as grown-ups. We keep it together for the kids. So we are looking at flights and trying to get out by some means.”

Reflecting on past experiences of conflict, the actor also drew parallels with her time in India during tensions between the neighbouring countries. “I was in India when India and Pakistan went to war. We saw how well our country protected us there. It's the same here.” Concluding her message, Dutta expressed hope that the conflict would de-escalate soon, emphasising that civilians should never have to live in fear because of war. “No civilian deserves to live in fear or to be caught up in a war that is destabilising the entire region. I hope common sense will prevail. Better judgment will prevail with everybody who's making these decisions. Until then. We continue.”

Also Read: Lara Dutta drops emotional tribute to Deanne Panday; praises her son Ahaan Panday in his debut film Saiyaara

BREAKING: Uday Bhai and Majnu Bhai reunite; Nana Patekar features in an exciting cameo in Anil Kapoor-starrer Subedaar

Subedaar has released today, March 5, and it has generated excitement due to lead actor Anil Kapoor’s massy performance and an exciting trailer. Viewers who would watch this film on Amazon Prime Video will be in for a surprise. This is because Nana Patekar also features in the film.

In a crucial scene in the film, Nana Patekar appears on screen all of a sudden. His presence adds to the fun and madness; in fact, if Subedaar was a theatrical film, Nana’s entry would have led to a frenzy in cinemas.

Anil Kapoor and Nana Patekar first shared screen space in Parinda (1989). Eighteen years later, they reunited in Welcome (2007) and struck gold. Nana played the unforgettable Uday Bhai, while Anil played his subordinate, Majnu Bhai. Together, their banter turned iconic and helped the film attain cult status. They came together once again in Welcome Back (2015), which remains their last on-screen collaboration to date. Ever since, fans have been demanding a full-fledged Uday Bhai-Majnu Bhai reunion, and Subedaar finally brings the duo back. It is sure to be lapped up by viewers.

Besides Anil Kapoor, Subedaar also stars Radhikka Madan, Mona Singh, Aditya Rawal, Saurabh Shukla, Faisal Malik and Kushboo Sundar in a cameo. It is directed by Suresh Trivedi of Tumhari Sulu (2017), Jalsa (2022) and Daldal (2026) fame.

Last week, a grand trailer launch was held at a restobar by the beach in Mumbai, where the whole team was present in full force. Anil said, “I shot the most difficult and crucial scene in the film amid thousands of bystanders. They were shouting 'Jhakaas' and 'Aye jee o jee'! However, I switched off the noise. I focused on my scene. If you want something from the bottom of your heart, you'll be able to achieve it.”

Also Read: Anil Kapoor brings back his swagger in ‘Balam Subedaar’ in Prime Video’s Subedaar, watch

PIL targets The Kerala Story 2, seeks removal of ‘Kerala’ from title amid communal concerns

A new Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed before the Kerala High Court challenging the title and release of the recently released film The Kerala Story 2. The petition, submitted on March 3 by a retired social science teacher and a practicing lawyer, calls for the removal of the word “Kerala” from the film’s title, arguing that it unfairly associates the State with sensitive and controversial themes.

According to the plea, the petitioners contend that the film’s title and subject matter risk portraying Kerala in a negative light. They have alleged that the narrative reportedly depicts the State as a centre for forced religious conversions, a portrayal they believe could damage its social and cultural image.

The petition also references an ongoing legal tussle involving the filmmakers. It notes that the producers have approached a Division Bench of the High Court challenging a recent interim order issued by a Single Bench, which had temporarily stayed the film’s release. The stay, the plea points out, was granted at a stage when the film was allegedly yet to be uploaded or publicly screened.

Beyond concerns over the State’s image, the petitioners have flagged the potential social repercussions of the film’s content. They argue that the narrative, as understood from available material, may foster hostility against members of the Muslim community in Kerala. The plea suggests that such a portrayal could disturb communal harmony and deepen existing sensitivities.

In addition to seeking changes to the title, the petitioners have requested judicial intervention to ensure that the film, if released, carries a clear disclaimer stating that the story is entirely fictional. They have urged the court to direct the Central Government and the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to mandate such a disclaimer to prevent audiences from interpreting the narrative as factual.

The PIL further calls for broader regulatory reforms. Specifically, it seeks directions to the Centre and the CBFC to frame comprehensive guidelines governing film titles and taglines. According to the plea, such norms should ensure that no cinematic work denigrates or maligns any State, region, caste, or religion through its branding or promotional material.

The matter is expected to come up for consideration before the High Court in the coming days, adding another chapter to the ongoing debate around creative freedom, censorship, and the responsibility of filmmakers in handling sensitive socio-political themes.

Also Read: Madras High Court restrains illegal broadcast of The Kerala Story 2 until March 23

BREAKING: Toxic: A Fairy Tale For Grown-Ups POSTPONED to June 4 due to rising tension in the Middle East; Dhurandhar: The Revenge to arrive SOLO on March 19

Sometime back, it came to light that the highly awaited film, Toxic: A Fairy Tale For Grown-Ups, has been pushed to June 4. This means that Dhurandhar: The Revenge will now arrive solo on March 19.

The official statement released by the makers stated, “KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations today announced a strategic rescheduling of the global theatrical release for the highly anticipated action-drama, Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups. Originally slated for a worldwide premiere on March 19, 2026, the film’s release is being moved to June 4, 2026, due to the ongoing volatile escalation and regional instability in the Middle East.”

The statement further added, “As advised by one of their major distribution partner Phars Films, the decision to reschedule the release was made in response to escalating tensions and the resulting disruptions to cinema operations across the Gulf region, a key market for the film’s multi-language global rollout. The producers have been closely monitoring the rapidly evolving regional developments with the utmost caution. This announcement comes at a time when the makers were gearing up for a grand trailer launch for 8th March in Bengaluru, with media from across the country. The makers had already mapped out the film’s final promotional schedule ahead of its earlier release date of 19th March 2026. Even though the film’s first single, ‘Tabaahi,’ was ready for its scheduled debut on 2nd March, the makers chose to hold the music video and momentarily pause the promotional rollout, which was locked and to be activated within a day or two.”

It also said, “Toxic: A Fairy Tale For Grown-Ups is a film we conceptualized with the vision to create cinema for a global audience. Filmed in Kannada and English, it is built with the conviction to connect with viewers both at home and across the world. After years of dedicated labour, we were excited to share our film with you all on March 19. However, the current uncertainty, especially in the Middle East, has created a situation that impacts our goal to reach and connect with the widest possible audience. Therefore, in the interest of our partners and our audience, we have made the difficult but carefully considered decision to reschedule our release. We thank you for your understanding and patience and look forward to your continued love and support.”

The Middle East Factor

A trade source commented, “No one knows when the tensions in the Middle East will end.  Moreover, Toxic: A Fairy Tale For Grown-Ups has the potential to earn Rs. 40-50 crore or even more from the UAE-GCC belt. Hence, it makes sense to push the film and release it later, when the situation hopefully would be normal.”

The source added, “The exhibitors were worried about the clash of Dhurandhar and Toxic. But now, they can breathe easy.”

Also Read: SCOOP: This Eid, get ready for a long ride; Toxic’s runtime likely to be approx. 3 hours and 20 minutes; Dhurandhar: The Revenge expected to be longer

Mandana Karimi slams ‘one-sided’ Iran coverage, urges Indian media to lend a platform to Reza Pahlavi - EXCLUSIVE

In an explosive, soul-bearing interview with Bollywood Hungama, actress and activist Mandana Karimi opened up about the personal and professional toll her advocacy for Iran has taken. The actress, who has been vocal against the Iranian regime amid the escalating Middle East conflict, revealed that her career in India has come to a standstill due to her outspoken political stance.

“Well since January, I've literally have left my work. I'm not working anymore. All my contract got cancelled. I've become too activist I've become too open about politics and I have messaged. I have emailed to platforms. I've said let's talk about it. I have videos I have images from Iran - Why are you not covering it?” Karimi shared, underscoring her frustration at what she describes as silence despite having access to ground-level material.

The actress, known for her appearance on Bigg Boss 9 and films like Kyaa Kool Hain Hum 3, also criticised sections of the Indian media for what she called skewed reporting. “No one has covered it and if they have covered it they were talking about how strong the regime is. They've kind of sold themselves into the whole propaganda of the government and Iranian government is very known for having these kind of Influencers or certain reporters to go to Iran and cover the situation. So I've been very disheartened from the media in India, and they haven't been covering well. Even now, when you look at India today, you know the way they're covering the news. It's so one-sided. It's not accurate - the answers and questions,” she stated.

 

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Karimi went on to urge Indian news platforms to provide space to opposition voices, specifically naming exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi.“I would request Indian media - to whoever is watching this video from media – ‘Indian media, if you have brought the regime murderous Cabinet to India and you've actually given your platform to interview them and ask their opinion about what's happening in Iran; why aren't you bringing Reza Shah Pahlavi? Why aren't you bringing people who are working with Reza Shah Pahlavi? We want to also tell our side of the story’,” she urged.

She concluded with a pointed reminder: “Every story has two sides. It's never one-sided, right? You're a reporter, right? You're supposed to report the news. So why aren't you inviting Reza Pahlavi to your channel and let's talk.”

Her remarks come amid heightened tensions in the region. As of March 2026, the conflict has intensified following joint US-Israeli strikes targeting senior Iranian officials and military sites, prompting retaliatory missile attacks from Tehran and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. With reports of internal unrest and uncertainty within Iran’s leadership, the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate, adding urgency to calls for broader global coverage of the crisis.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Mandana Karimi plans to return to Iran if regime changes amid conflict; says, “I feel like I don’t have a voice in India”

LEAKED set pics reveal Ranbir Kapoor’s long-haired avatar for Ramayana

Photos of Ranbir Kapoor from the sets of Ramayana have surfaced online, drawing widespread attention and sparking discussion among fans. The images, which began circulating on Reddit on Tuesday morning, appear to show the actor in costume during a shoot, holding a bow and dressed in traditional attire while crew members stand nearby with umbrellas and production equipment.

In the pictures, Kapoor is seen wearing long hair styled in waves, a tilak on his forehead, and period-style clothing. The images quickly made their way across social media platforms, where reactions were divided. While some fans expressed excitement about seeing a glimpse of the much-anticipated project, others criticised elements of the styling.

One Reddit user wrote, “All that $400 million budget and they couldn't arrange for a decent-looking wig?” Another commented, “Bollywood really sucks in the fake hair & fake beard department. You can notice this in any movie or TV show.” He looks so bad honestly 😭 by u/AgreeableScarcity568 in bollynewsandgossips

Producer Namit Malhotra has previously stated in interviews that the two-part adaptation of Ramayana is mounted on a budget of approximately $400–500 million, positioning it among the most expensive Indian film projects to date. However, the makers have not issued any statement regarding the leaked photos.

Alongside the images, a purported global promotion schedule for Ramayana also began circulating online. According to the unverified plan, the film’s trailer is slated for launch at the San Diego Comic-Con on July 23, 2026, followed by appearances at the Toronto International Film Festival. It further mentions promotional events at the Pingyao International Film Festival, the Tokyo International Film Festival, and the BFI London Film Festival, among others.

The schedule also lists a musical performance at London’s Royal Albert Hall featuring Hans Zimmer and A. R. Rahman, in addition to promotional events across India before a reported Diwali release on November 8, 2026.

As of now, none of these promotional details have been officially confirmed or denied by the production team.

Also Read: Love & War update: Ranbir Kapoor debuts clean-shaven look; sparks buzz around Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s next

The Grahan effect: The real reason why Dhurandhar: The Revenge’s trailer won’t release on March 3

On Sunday, March 1, Bollywood Hungama announced that the trailer for Dhurandhar: The Revenge would be released digitally on Tuesday, March 3. However, by Monday, it emerged that Jio Studios was no longer planning to drop the highly anticipated promo on the stated date. Bollywood Hungama reached out to reliable sources to understand what triggered the last-minute change behind the scenes.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Reports of Dhurandhar: The Revenge’s trailer release on March 3 weren’t mere rumours. The makers genuinely planned to unveil it that day. But they were later informed that March 3 witnesses a Chandra Grahan (lunar eclipse), which is considered inauspicious for new beginnings. The inauspicious period is said to be from 9:39 am to 6:46 pm. Trailers are usually launched around noon, and this timing falls within the window. Hence, the team decided to postpone the trailer release.”

In February 2026, Bollywood Hungama had reported that the trailer of Dhurandhar: The Revenge would be launched on March 5 at Mumbai’s iconic Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC). That plan was eventually dropped, and a digital launch was scheduled for March 3. Now, however, it appears the makers might unveil the trailer on March 5 or March 6 on digital platforms, without an event. The suspense continues on the exact date.

The Dhurandhar series stars Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, R Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, Sara Arjun and Rakesh Bedi. The first part told the story of an Indian spy who infiltrates Pakistan’s criminal syndicate and political system and creates havoc.

Interestingly, Dhurandhar: The Revenge will have a gigantic clash at the box office with Toxic: A Fairy Tale For Grown-Ups. Directed by Geetu Mohandas, it marks the return of Yash of KGF fame and also stars Kiara Advani, Nayanthara, Huma Qureshi, Akshay Oberoi and others. The trailer of this mass-appealing flick will be unveiled on March 8 in Bengaluru at a grand event.

Also Read: No Dhurandhar: The Revenge trailer launch on Holi? Here’s what we know

Ahaan Panday reveals he underwent painful shoulder surgery after Saiyaara: “I don’t know how nobody realised”

Actor Ahaan Panday has revealed that he underwent a major shoulder surgery following the release of Saiyaara, a procedure he describes as one of the most painful with the longest recovery period. In an interview with Esquire India, the actor shared that the decision to go under the knife stemmed from an old injury. A few years ago, Panday was involved in a snowmobile accident that resulted in a shoulder subluxation. The lingering impact of the injury began affecting his fitness goals, particularly as he prepared for an action film.

“I actually got a whole surgery done after the release of Saiyaara last year,” Panday said. “And it’s one of the most painful surgeries you can do, with the longest recovery time.”

According to him, his doctor had cautioned that post-surgery, his body would “go back to zero”, making it “nearly impossible” to achieve the desired physique for his next project. The warning did not deter him. Instead, Panday now says he feels satisfied being able to speak about the process and “prove everyone wrong.”

He reflected on how gym transformations in the film industry often serve as motivation, but pointed out that his journey was different. “I used to feel motivated by actors who had dramatic gym transformations,” he said, adding that those usually involved moving from an unhealthy body type to a healthier one. “This was different; I went from being injured, to not being able to move, to not being able to lift, to being able to lift.”

For months, Panday remained in a cast during recovery, a phase that he says largely went unnoticed. “I don’t know how nobody realised!” he remarked, amused. However, a few observant fans sensed something was off. Since Panday is not very active on social media, some turned to his mother’s fitness-focused social media pages, questioning why he appeared to be losing weight. “They were like, why is he losing so much weight,” he said, smiling at the memory.

 

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Having completed his recovery and returned to training, Panday is now focused on his upcoming projects. He will next be seen in a yet-untitled directorial by Ali Abbas Zafar, backed by Yash Raj Films. The actioner marks his second collaboration with the banner after Saiyaara, and the team has already commenced shooting.

Also Read: Ali Abbas Zafar on casting Ahaan Panday for next YRF film; says, “Audiences have connected with Ahaan because he’s simply present”

EXCLUSIVE: Ameena all set to complete 100 weeks in a Mumbai multiplex; the curious case behind its 'run'

There was a time when it was not unusual for films to complete 50 or 100 weeks in cinemas. But as times passed and due to the shift in business models, increase in number of screens and rise of OTT platforms, it’s a feat even for a film to run for 50 days on the big screen. Hence, it’ll be a surprise for moviegoers to learn that a small-budget film, Ameena, is about to complete 100 weeks in theatres.

Ameena was released on April 12, 2024, that is, in the same week as Bade Miyan Chote Miyan and Maidaan. Since then, popular films and grossers like Stree 2, Pushpa 2, Chhaava, Saiyaara, Mahavatar Narsimha etc., have been released and none of them ran for more than 10 or 15 weeks (Bollywood’s biggest grosser, Dhurandhar, currently in its 13th week and will also complete 15 weeks). Meanwhile, Ameena is running non-stop at Mumbai’s extremely popular MovieTime Hub multiplex in the morning show. At present, it is running in its 99th week; on Friday, March 6, it’ll complete 100 weeks and thus create history.

An industry insider told Bollywood Hungama, “Ideally, if a film is pulling in so many viewers for nearly two long years, it would have become a talking point on social media, the way it happens with Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995) or the longest running Gujarati film of all time, Chaal Jeevi Laiye (2019). People would have excitedly discussed the film’s plot, themes, performances, songs etc. But how many people do you know who have seen the film? Have you ever seen any tweet or Instagram post/story about it?”

 

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Ground reality check

Last week, when Ameena was in its 98th week, Bollywood Hungama decided to watch the film to get a first-hand sense of the ground reality. As per a ticketing website, 20 tickets had been sold for our show. The pattern seemed unusual because all seats in the screen were available at a flat price of Rs. 100. In a normal scenario, patrons would book the back rows first. But in the case of Ameena, 18 tickets were booked in the first two rows, followed by two seats in the third row from the front.

This writer purchased a ticket at the booking counter and, as expected, was the only person inside the auditorium. None of the 20 people who had supposedly booked tickets turned up. The show, however, began as scheduled. It was stifling inside, as the air-conditioning didn’t seem to be switched on. During the intermission, when this writer requested a staffer to turn on the AC, he looked in disbelief and asked if the writer was watching Ameena. When the writer nodded, the kind staffer assured it would be done, and he kept his word. It left us wondering: Is Ameena being screened every day to an empty hall

 

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Bollywood Hungama kept track of Ameena’s bookings on the ticketing website over the next few days and noticed a pattern: every day, 20 tickets for the show ‘get sold’ in the exact same order –18 in the first two rows, followed by two seats in the third row from the front.

That’s not all. The Instagram handle of the film’s production house, Kumar Raj Productions, has shared a video of a man informing his followers about Ameena’s unbelievable run. Text displayed throughout the video lists three phone numbers that viewers can call to get free tickets for Ameena. When the film was in its 65th week, a post mentioned in bold letters that tickets to the film were available for free.

Producer speaks up

Bollywood Hungama exclusively spoke to producer-director Kumar Raj, who also features in the film in a supporting role. He was very jovial and spoke warmly to us. He began by saying about his plans for the 100th week celebration, “We are going to call the press, party with them and gift them a 5-inch gold coin. Everyone who worked on the film would also be getting some gifts.”

He claimed that there’s a lot of demand even from foreign shores to write about Ameena, “I got a call from Time magazine. I don’t know if it was genuine or not! They were excited about the fact that Ameena is the first movie in the world to complete 100 weeks in the last 30 years. For 5 weeks, they were after me. Finally, I gave them an interview yesterday. I don’t know if they are going to publish a negative or positive report! As long as they are writing about our film, I am happy (smiles). They claimed that they are going to publish a full-page story along with posters of Ameena.”

The posters of Ameena, splashed across newspapers, mention that they are inviting OTT platforms to buy their film. Names of prominent streaming giants like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Zee5, SonyLIV, JioHotstar etc. are mentioned. Even Voot gets a mention, though it merged with JioCinema (which later merged with Hotstar).

 

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  A post shared by Kumar Raj Productions (@kumarrajproductions)

However, Kumar Raj said, “I started getting a lot of offers from OTT in the very first week itself. But I was clear, ‘Picture jab tak chalti hai, chalne do’. My film was also released in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada.”

He continued, “A famous distributor from down South has arrived in Mumbai. Tomorrow, he’s going to see the movie. He wants to screen this film in several cinemas. In fact, he asked me to send him a flight ticket so that he could come down to Mumbai. But I categorically told him to fly down at his own cost.”

When asked about the average occupancy of Ameena’s shows, Kumar Raj replied, “On the weekends, it is 75% full. During the holidays, the show is 100% sold out. We are getting a lot of repeat audiences as well. During weekdays, shows are approx. 30% full. This is a huge feat, as even the biggest of films don’t get such an audience. At times, when I watch a biggie in the theatre, there are barely 4-5 people in the auditorium.”

He added, “You can ask the team of BookMyShow. They’ll officially provide you with actual collections of the film.”

Kumar Raj also opened up about his earlier film, Tara: The Journey Of Love And Passion (2013), “It has amassed 16 million views on one of the websites (YouTube). It has won 600 international awards and has a mention in 35 book of world records. However, I don’t like to blow my own trumpet.”

Finally, we asked him about the belief in the industry that he’s himself buying the tickets of Ameena. He smiled and simply replied, “Kuch toh log kahenge, logon ka kaam hai kehna.”

About Ameena and Tara

Ameena stars Rekha Rana in the lead role of Meena, a theatre actor. One day, she is brutally raped by three men. She fears that she may not get justice in the court of law and hence, decides to eliminate her rapists. Help comes in the form of a cartel of those directly or indirectly affected by rape. The other actors in the film are Ananth Narayan Mahadevan, Utkarsh Kohli, Manu Malkan etc. The film has been shot not just in Mumbai but also in Los Angeles, Senegal, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, as well as Cannes.

Meanwhile, Kumar Raj’s earlier film, Tara: The Journey Of Love And Passion also starred Rekha Rana. While Ameena aims to complete 100 weeks, Tara ‘ran’ for 50 weeks, in Mumbai’s now-defunct single-screen cinema, Imperial.

SCOOP: This Eid, get ready for a long ride; Toxic's runtime likely to be approx. 3 hours and 20 minutes; Dhurandhar: The Revenge expected to be longer

Yesterday, March 1, Bollywood Hungama reported that Dhurandhar: The Revenge is expected to run between 220 minutes (3 hours 40 minutes) and 235 minutes (3 hours 55 minutes). The much-awaited film clashes with Toxic on Eid (March 19), and the face-off has sparked major buzz across the trade, industry and fans. Bollywood Hungama has now learned that, like Dhurandhar, Toxic too is likely to be a lengthy affair.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Toxic’s final length is yet to be locked, but it comes to around 200 minutes, that is, 3 hours and 20 minutes. The makers feel that there’s enough entertainment and mass-appealing moments in the film and that the audience won’t get bored or restless. Also, earlier, having a long film would lead to a negative perception. But it all changed with Animal (2023). It was 3 hours and 21 minutes long and ran very successfully. In recent times, Border 2 (2026) was released with a runtime of 3 hours and 19 minutes. Not to forget, the duration of Dhurandhar’s (2026) first part was 3 hours and 34 minutes. All these films were huge hits and it remains to be seen if Toxic also follows suit.”

However, the exhibitors were already at their wits' end over the clash and the news of the runtimes of Dhurandhar: The Revenge and Toxic have added to their woes. A single-screen cinema hall owner, said on condition of anonymity, sighed, “The distributors anyway were not going to be ready for show-sharing. But we hoped that it might be possible, especially if both films had concise lengths. But now, there’s no chance. It’ll be a challenge even for theatres with multiple screens to accommodate sufficient shows of both films.”

Meanwhile, it’s a crucial week as the trailer of Dhurandhar: The Revenge will be launched digitally on March 3, as confirmed by Bollywood Hungama yesterday in an article. As for Toxic, the makers have planned a grand trailer launch on March 8 in Bengaluru. Directed by Geetu Mohandas, it marks the return of Yash of KGF fame and also stars Kiara Advani, Nayanthara, Huma Qureshi, Akshay Oberoi and others.

Also Read: IMAX bets big on India: Ramayana, Toxic gets special mention in IMAX quarterly report amid RECORD $1.28 billion global box office earnings in 2025 from 1796 properties

MEGA EXCLUSIVE: Tiger Shroff's grand-scale spiritual action film with Neerja director Ram Madhvani and Mahaveer Jain gets a title - Vajra

Tiger Shroff celebrates his birthday today, March 2, and on this special occasion, Bollywood Hungama brings exciting news which will be lapped up by his fans. We have learned from reliable sources that Tiger’s upcoming film by director Ram Madhvani and producer Mahaveer Jain has been given a title.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “The film is named Vajra. The makers, as well as Tiger, feel that the title is apt for the storyline and also because it's connected with our rich Indian culture.”

The source continued, “In Vajra, Tiger Shroff will be seen in a never-seen-before avatar, one that blends raw power with emotional depth. He is extremely excited about Vajra and its concept and is working very hard. He's determined to give the audience an experience that they'll cherish. Ram Madhvani and Mahaveer Jain are also going all out to mount their spiritual big-budget action film on a grand scale.”

In November 2025, Bollywood Hungama was the first to report that Tiger Shroff had signed on for Ram Madhvani and Mahaveer Jain's film. At that time, a source had told us, “It's a spiritual action thriller. This has never been attempted before in Indian cinema. It has an appeal and huge potential for a global audience and not just the moviegoers of the Indian diaspora.”

The source continued, “Tiger Shroff will be undergoing extensive preparation for this ambitious film. It will go on floors in the second quarter of 2026. A major portion of the film will be shot in Japan.”

Also Read: Tiger Shroff delivers energetic stage performance on Valentine’s Day eve in Delhi