BREAKING! Post-midnight shows of Dhurandhar added in Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad due to unprecedented demand

The buzz around Dhurandhar has been translating into packed theatres, with post-midnight shows being introduced across Maharashtra due to overwhelming public demand. In Mumbai, cinemas have begun screening the film from as late as 12:45 am onwards, marking a rare but telling response to the unstoppable excitement surrounding the release.

The decision to add post-midnight shows was taken after advance bookings surged across multiplexes and single screens alike. The move underlines the strong word-of-mouth and pre-release anticipation that Dhurandhar has managed to generate. The trend is not limited to Mumbai alone. Pune has also joined the celebration, with post-midnight shows commencing from 12:20 am onwards starting today due to similar reasons—heavy booking and consistent inquiries from moviegoers keen to catch the film at the earliest possible hour. Similarly, the trend of post-midnight shows is also seen in Ahmedabad. But this is not the first time that Dhurandhar’s post-midnight shows have been added. The same happened last weekend as well (which was the film’s first weekend) and Bollywood Hungama was the first one to report on the same. Midnight and post-midnight shows are usually reserved for films that demonstrate exceptional demand, often driven by mass appeal and fan-driven momentum. The fact that Dhurandhar has achieved this across multiple cities reflects its strong pull among audiences and its ability to cut across age groups and demographics. Directed and written by Aditya Dhar, Dhurandhar has an ensemble cast of Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna, R Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, Sara Arjun and Rakesh Bedi. The film is produced under the banners of Jio Studios and B62 Studios.

Also Read: Rajkummar Rao and Zoya Akhtar praise Ranveer Singh’s performance in Dhurandhar

BREAKING: Manager CONFIRMS that Allu Arjun to fly to Japan for Pushpa 2 Japanese release in January 2026; Pushpa Kunrin to release with 222-minute EXTENDED cut

2024’s biggest blockbuster, Pushpa 2 – The Rule, opened with superstar Allu Arjun’s character making a dramatic entry at a port in Japan, hidden inside a container. More than a year later, Allu is finally set to head to the Far East country, this time legally, as he will take part in promotions ahead of the film’s Japan release.

Earlier this month, it was reported that Pushpa 2 - The Rule will have a release in Japan on January 16, 2026, under the title of Pushpa Kunrin. Geek Pictures announced that it’ll release the film in the Asian country along with Shochiku. A special, vibrant poster of Pushpa Kunrin was also unveiled, featuring Allu Arjun in his trademark flamboyant avatar, sunglasses on, floral shirts out, and swagger dialled all the way up. The Japanese-version trailer was also dropped on YouTube the same day.

As expected, the fans of Allu Arjun are excited to learn about this special release of Pushpa 2 - The Rule in Japan. A fan happened to wonder on Twitter if the superstar will be heading to Japan for the promotional event before release and also if he can ask Allu’s manager, Sarath Chandra Naidu, about it. Interestingly, Sarath replied, “Yes, he is”. What was significant was that Sarath Chandra Naidu was not even tagged, but somehow stumbled upon this tweet and even answered the fan query.

Yes, he is. — Sarath Chandra Naidu (@imsarathchandra) December 12, 2025

Needless to say, Sarath’s reply was widely shared and retweeted and it added to the excitement. This would probably be the first ever visit for Allu Arjun in Japan.

Another interesting bit is that a 200-minute version of Pushpa 2 - The Rule was released in India and worldwide. A month later, after the film became a certified record grosser, the makers released a 20-minute-extended version. As per the details released by Geek Pictures, it is this extended version, of 222 minutes, which will be released in Japan.

Also Read: Allu Arjun stuns in new BTS of Thums Up commercial: here’s why fans are obsessed

Lauren Gottlieb performs Grah Pooja as she moves into her new Mumbai home, calls it an invitation for “peace and gratitude”

Actress and global dance sensation Lauren Gottlieb has stepped into a new phase of her life, and she’s done it in the most heartfelt way. Moving into her new home in Mumbai, Lauren chose to mark this joyous milestone by performing a traditional Grah Pooja, grounding the moment in positivity, blessings, and spiritual grace.

Lauren’s relationship with India has always been special, a bond that goes far beyond her successful career in the entertainment industry. Over the years, she has embraced Indian values, traditions, and spirituality as her own. She was once given the loving nickname Foreign Ki Lauren, but India has claimed her and she has happily claimed India right back. Her commitment to honoring Indian culture isn’t symbolic, it’s deeply personal, lived, and celebrated through moments like these over a span of 13 beautiful years.

“I’ve built a life here in India, made memories, and now I’m building a home here once again. Performing a Grah Pooja was my way of inviting peace, gratitude, abundance, and good energy into my new home in Mumbai from day one. India has given me so much love, purpose, and belonging over the years, and incorporating these traditions into my life feels incredibly natural now. In this moment, I just feel incredibly grateful for my journey, for the beautiful people in India who have embraced me like family, and for building a home rooted in positivity and culture. I’m excited for everything this new beginning brings," shares Lauren.

 

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Lauren Gottlieb (@laurengottlieb)

From her unforgettable performances in ABCD and ABCD 2, to going from contestant to judge on Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, and countless hit music videos to proudly representing Indian cinema at global events, Lauren has consistently been a cultural bridge between India and the world at large. Her electrifying performance of 'Naatu Naatu' on the prestigious Oscars stage, merging both her roots in Bollywood and Hollywood, remains a moment of national pride, showcasing her love and dedication to India on one of the biggest stages ever.

This marks one of the most anticipated comebacks in recent memory. Our beloved dancing diva stepping back into her power, ready to take the world stage by storm once again.

Also Read: ‘Sajri’ girl Lauren Gottlieb feels India is home: “When I stepped foot in India, I went, ‘I’m home!’, I just connect with the people in India”

From Saiyaara, War 2 to Mrs: Bollywood dominates India’s trending movies of 2025; but none reach the global top 10

Google Trends’ 2025 ranking of the most-searched movies in India reveals a strong sweep by Hindi cinema. Titles like Saiyaara, War 2, Sanam Teri Kasam, Housefull 5, Mrs, and the animated epic Mahavatar Narsimha led the country’s search charts, signalling the continued influence of Bollywood across digital spaces. Yet despite this dominance at home, not a single Hindi film — or any Indian film — managed to enter Google’s global Top 10 searched movies list for the year.

In India, Hindi films clearly steered search curiosity. Saiyaara stood out as a top romantic musical and one of Mohit Suri’s most-talked-about releases. War 2, powered by Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR, held its position as one of the year’s most anticipated action spectacles. Sanam Teri Kasam resurfaced strongly thanks to the nostalgia around the 2016 original and renewed discussion ahead of its 2026 sequel.

Comedy franchise Housefull 5 maintained high online attention because of its ensemble cast and franchise legacy, while Mrs, headlined by Sanya Malhotra, sparked conversations for its layered storytelling and digital premiere. Meanwhile, Mahavatar Narsimha made a major impact as the biggest Indian animated success of the year, further fuelling the Hindi-dominant search landscape.

Even with South Indian juggernauts like Kantara Chapter 1, Coolie, Marco, and Game Changer also appearing in the India region list, Hindi titles emerged as the strongest cluster — but the absence of any Indian movie from the global Top 10 points to a demographic difference in what drives worldwide search trends.

As Indian cinema continues to expand its footprint through star-driven blockbusters and high-engagement OTT titles, the 2025 search data highlights a key contrast: strong national popularity doesn’t always translate into global trending status. With several major Hindi films slated for 2026, the coming year will determine whether any homegrown title can finally break into the worldwide search charts.

Also Read: Sony MAX announces World TV Premiere of Saiyaara on December 20

Diljit Dosanjh confirms second collaboration with Imtiaz Ali after Amar Singh Chamkila

Diljit Dosanjh has officially confirmed his second collaboration with filmmaker Imtiaz Ali through a behind-the-scenes vlog shared from his ongoing shoot in Punjab. Posted on Instagram on Thursday, the video gives fans a rare peek into his daily routine and subtly reveals that he and Imtiaz are reuniting after the massive success of Amar Singh Chamkila.

In the vlog, Diljit is seen beginning his day at 4:30 am, followed by a workout session. He then has breakfast consisting of fruits and protein before heading to the shoot with his team. The video captures him filming in front of a green screen and sharing warm interactions with Imtiaz Ali, confirming that the director is once again helming Diljit’s next, currently untitled, project. After wrapping up the shoot, Diljit returns to a scenic haveli where he is staying during the film’s production. This upcoming film marks the duo’s second association after the critically acclaimed Amar Singh Chamkila, based on the life of the iconic Punjabi musician. Parineeti Chopra starred as Amarjot, Chamkila’s wife. Known as the “Elvis of Punjab,” Chamkila was celebrated for his electrifying performances, bold lyrical style, and cultural impact. His tragic assassination alongside Amarjot in 1988 remains one of Punjabi music’s greatest losses.

 

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by DILJIT DOSANJH (@diljitdosanjh)

Amar Singh Chamkila earned two nominations at the International Emmy Awards Best Actor for Diljit Dosanjh and Best TV Movie/Mini-Series. Despite not winning, the recognition spotlighted Punjabi and Indian storytelling globally and reinforced the enduring influence of Chamkila’s music. Diljit will next be seen in Border 2, the highly awaited sequel to J.P. Dutta’s 1997 classic. Directed by Anurag Singh, the film features Varun Dhawan, Ahan Shetty, and Diljit in key roles, portraying brave soldiers safeguarding the nation. Produced by T-Series and J.P. Films, Border 2 is slated to release on January 23, 2026, promising large-scale action, emotional intensity, and a patriotic storyline for today’s audiences. Also Read : Team Dhurandhar pulls off a masterstroke: Diljit Dosanjh’s ‘Ez Ez’ launched with live performance at music launch

Sholay 4K re-release restores original vision and James Bond line

Ramesh Sippy’s Sholay returns in an enhanced 4K version titled Sholay – The Final Cut, releasing on December 12 across more than a thousand theatres in its fully restored form, literally. The controversial replacement in the trailer of “James Bond” with “Tatya Tope” has also been reversed.

Clarifying the issue, Neeraj Joshi, in charge of Marketing & Strategy, says, “It was ‘Tatya Tope’ in the original version, and then ‘James Bond’ came in to give the dialogue a more viewer-friendly thrust. Now in the version being released, it’s ‘James Bond’ again.”

The new edition of this timeless classic, piloted by director Ramesh Sippy’s nephew Shehzad Sippy, retains its legendary stature, with exquisite production values, dialogues that have become an intrinsic part of India’s pop culture, and performances that remain endlessly resplendent.

Three vital sequences have been added in this restored version, viz. a scene where a brave Sachin Pilgaonkar confronts the dreaded Gabbar. (In the original cut, Sachin’s character Ahmed was shown riding through the ravines and later discovered as a corpse on a horse.)  A moment featuring Thakur’s faithful aide Ramlal (Satyen Kappu) hammering nails into the sole of Thakur’s shoe. And, of course, the spectacular finale where Thakur (Sanjeev Kumar) stomps Gabbar with his spiked shoes.

This gruesome yet glorious climax now ends with a deeply emotional moment of shared grief between Thakur and Veeru never seen before.

The restoration took three years to complete, says Shehzad Sippy, “All credit goes to the original cast and crew for the masterpiece they created, as well as the Film Heritage Foundation for the amazing restoration job they’ve done. I am just happy we have been able to put out the makers’ original vision fifty years later and preserve this classic for future generations. I hope everyone gets to see this on the big screen for the first and hopefully not the last time.”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Team of Sholay – The Final Cut lands in soup over 1,500-screen release claim; STRUGGLES to get 1,000 screens due to long length, HIGH rates & Dhurandhar wave

SCOOP: Trailer of Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri expected to be launched on December 15 in a GRAND event in the presence of Kartik Aaryan, Ananya Panday

2025 will end on a romantic and fun note thanks to Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri. Starring Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday, the romcom has caught attention thanks to its fresh pairing, vibrant and youthful feel, breathtaking locations and peppy songs. Bollywood Hungama has learned that if all goes well, the trailer of the film will be unveiled early next week.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “The team of the film plans to launch the trailer on Monday, December 15. Mostly, the date is locked, but a final call will be taken today, that is, Thursday, December 11.”

The source further said, “A grand event is being planned in Mumbai. It’ll be attended by lead actors Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday, director Sameer Vidwans and producers Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta and Bhumika Tewari of Dharma Productions and Shareen Mantri Kedia and Kishor Arora of Namah Pictures. One can expect a fun event as the makers are pumped about their product and since it’s a light-hearted entertainer, the team is expected to crack jokes and make merry.”

The source also added, “Until now, the teaser and songs of Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri have been out. The trailer is keenly awaited as it’ll help viewers understand the story of the film. Even the trade and industry are keeping an eye on the same, as it is one of the most significant releases of 2025.”

Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri is all set to arrive in cinemas on Christmas, that is, December 25. Earlier, the romcom was scheduled to be released on Valentine’s Day 2026. It was preponed to December 31, 2025. After the Alia Bhatt-Sharvari starrer Alpha moved to April 17, 2026, Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri makers took the vacant Christmas slot.

Also Read: Kartik Aaryan praises Ananya Panday in Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri: “She’s talented, she keeps working hard on herself”

Bombay HC asks Shilpa Shetty, Raj Kundra to deposit Rs 60 crores for travel, and LOC relief

The Bombay High Court has directed actor Shilpa Shetty and her husband, businessman Raj Kundra, to deposit Rs 60 crore or provide a continuous bank guarantee from a nationalised bank before it will consider lifting a Lookout Circular (LOC) restricting their foreign travel. This order came during a hearing on their urgent plea to visit London for Kundra's ailing father, who is undergoing serious medical treatment. The bench of Justices AS Gadkari and RR Bhonsale emphasised the need to demonstrate bona fides amid doubts about their return to India.

The LOC stems from a Rs 60.48 crore fraud complaint filed by Deepak Kothari, Director of UY Industries Pvt Ltd, alleging the couple induced him to invest in their now-defunct Best Deal TV Pvt Ltd between 2015 and 2023. Kothari claims the funds, provided as a loan with Shetty's personal guarantee, were misused amid heavy business losses, with no recovery despite repeated demands. The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of Mumbai Police is investigating, having issued the LOC to ensure the couple's availability.​

Senior Advocate Abad Ponda, representing the couple, argued against depositing the full amount, suggesting surety or a reasonable alternative, and stressed the trip's medical urgency with a firm return commitment. The bench rejected partial measures, insisting on the entire sum via deposit or bank guarantee, and scheduled further instructions for next week. The couple denies criminality, calling the case malicious and aimed at extortion by tarnishing their reputation.

Best Deal TV, launched in 2015 with endorsements from Shetty and ex-partner Akshay Kumar, collapsed after burning Rs 100 crore in 18 months, fuelling allegations of fund diversion to personal expenses or linked entities. No arrests have occurred, but prior pleas for quashing the FIR or LOC relief were denied without repayment. The case highlights rising scrutiny on celebrity-backed ventures post-demonetisation business failures.

Also Read: Shilpa Shetty, Raj Kundra move Bombay HC seeking travel permission amid father’s health crisis in London

Kritika Kamra makes her relationship with Gaurav Kapur Instagram official; shares breakfast date pics

Actor Kritika Kamra has just made her relationship with one of India’s most loved cricket hosts and content producers, Gaurav Kapur, Instagram official. The actress shared a set of warm, candid pictures from a cosy breakfast date with Gaurav, subtly confirming their romance that fans had been speculating about for months on social media platforms.

Kritika kept the caption understated yet playful, writing only “breakfast with…”, a gentle nod to Gaurav Kapur’s massively popular show Breakfast with Champions. The long-format series, known for its intimate conversations with India’s biggest sporting icons, has made Gaurav one of the most recognisable names in cricket entertainment.

The couple, who have been going steady for the last few months, looked relaxed and happy in the photos, a rare glimpse into their otherwise private equation. With this post, Kritika has officially taken the relationship public.

 

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Kritika Kamra (@kkamra)

While neither of them has spoken openly about their relationship until now, the post marks a sweet new chapter for the two, confirming what many had sensed already.

Also Read: Kritika Kamra celebrates the power of female-crafted storytelling as she leads Anusha Rizvi’s The Great Shamsuddin Family: “A privilege to be centered in a woman’s story”

Priya Kapur’s ‘position swap’ defence faces major setback in Sunjay Kapur Will case: Court flags power grab, missing attachment and “suspicious suppression”

The battle over the late industrialist Sunjay Kapur’s Will, has already become one of the most closely watched legal disputes considering its connection to Sunjay’s children with actress Karisma Kapoor, Samaira and Kiaan. It has further intensified in the Delhi High Court as new arguments cast doubt on the credibility of Priya Kapur’s defence.

Senior advocate Mahesh Jethmalani, representing Samaira and Kiaan, dismantled Priya Kapur’s long-standing claim that her 2023 exit from Automotive India Pvt Ltd (AIPL) was a consensual “position swap” with Sunjay. Instead, he described her removal on 31 May 2023 as a direct fallout of marital discord—arguing that corporate filings reveal she neither became Managing Director of Raghuvanshi Investment Pvt Ltd (RIPL) nor held any role in the company.

According to Jethmalani, “Priya was never made the MD of RIPL… She was removed from AIPL,” countering her assertions of a smooth corporate restructuring. The absence of any parallel appointment, he said, undermines her narrative of a stable blended family and seamless transition—an especially relevant point given her repeated references to cordial ties with Karisma Kapoor’s children.

What followed Sunjay’s death in June 2023 is now under even sharper scrutiny. Records presented in court show Priya Kapur was appointed as a director of AIPL a day after his passing, and reinstated herself as Managing Director within a week. Jethmalani argued this reflected not continuity, but opportunism: “She was not in control when Sunjay was alive. She sought control only after his passing.”

The corporate timeline, the plaintiffs argue, aligns too conveniently with the sudden appearance of a contested Will—a document central to determining the legal rights of Sunjay’s heirs, including Karisma’s children.

Complicating matters further is the conduct of the named executor Shradha Suri Marwah, who, according to submissions, neither pursued probate nor took charge of Sunjay’s assets as required. Jethmalani contended that an executor cannot selectively enforce parts of a Will. The court was also told that Shradha claimed to have “deleted” a crucial email attachment containing the alleged Will—despite the email itself being produced in court.

“You cannot delete the attachment without deleting the email,” Jethmalani argued, highlighting what he described as an “impossible explanation” and pointing to the suspicious disappearance of a supporting document that appeared in an earlier email but not in the final version.

With the matter listed again for December 22, the court will continue to examine inconsistencies around Priya’s corporate role, post-death actions, and the missing attachment—issues that now lie at the heart of a dispute carrying significant implications for Sunjay Kapur’s children, his legacy, and the businesses he once helmed.

Also Read: Karisma Kapoor renews Rs 66 lakhs Bandra apartment lease amid battle over Sunjay Kapur’s Rs 30,000-crores estate: Report

Sonu Nigam rents out BKC property in Rs 12.61 crores lease: Report

Singer Sonu Nigam has reportedly leased out a premium commercial property near Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) for a total rental value of Rs 12.61 crores over a five-year period, as per property registration documents reviewed by Square Yards. The development has not been officially confirmed by the singer or his representatives.

According to the documents, the leased office space is located at Trade Centre BKC in Santacruz East and measures approximately 4,257 sq ft. The property has been taken on lease by Pattni Hospitality, the company behind the Downtown 29 café and bar brand, which has a presence in Mumbai’s hospitality circuit.

The lease agreement was registered on December 2, 2025. As per the registration details, stamp duty of Rs 3.27 lakhs and a registration fee of Rs 1,000 were paid for the transaction. The deal also includes a security deposit of Rs 90 lakhs.

The rental arrangement reportedly begins at Rs 19 lakhs per month for the first year. From the second year onwards, the agreement includes a 5.26 per cent escalation, taking the monthly rent to around Rs 20 lakh in Year 2, with proportionate increases continuing over the remaining lease term.

Trade Centre BKC is among the prominent commercial developments in the Santacruz East–BKC belt, an area that has seen sustained demand from corporate offices, financial institutions, and hospitality brands due to its proximity to Mumbai’s financial district.

Also Read: Sonu Nigam delivers 3-hour power-packed set at Satrangi Re Hyderabad; extends concert after fans demand more

REVEALED: Akshaye Khanna's oxygen level dropped while performing the viral dance scene in Dhurandhar; Vijay Ganguly reveals, "He carried an oxygen cylinder; after every shot, he would put the oxygen mask on"

Dhurandhar is all over the internet and it has become a big talking point thanks to its real-life references, performances, certain moments and of course the music. A day after its release on December 5, the song ‘FA9LA’, featuring Akshaye Khanna’s character Rehman Dacait, making a dramatic entry at a celebration in Balochistan, has gone viral. The song is very catchy and there’s no way an active social media user hasn’t seen its videos and Reels. In an interview with Mid-Day, choreographer Vijay Ganguly shared some interesting trivia about working on the track.

Vijay Ganguly began by saying that the dance was done spontaneously by Akshaye Khanna. He said, “Originally, he was supposed to enter, walk through the dancers, and sit on the throne. Seeing the scene’s mood and the dancers’ performance, the fantastic actor that Akshaye is, he said he would dance a bit when he walks in. None of us knew what he was going to do. Akshaye entered the scene, took it from that point, and spontaneously performed.”

Director Aditya Dhar has recreated Balochistan, Pakistan, in the union territory of Ladakh. The breathtaking place is notorious for high-altitude sickness, and sadly, Akshaye Khanna fell victim to it. As a result, the dashing and talented actor had to carry an oxygen mask and an oxygen cylinder.

Vijay Ganguly stated, “Akshaye would carry a small oxygen cylinder with him. When we were shooting this song, his oxygen level had dropped. So, after every shot, he would put the oxygen mask on. He did the sequence unflinchingly, and then went home.”

Vijay Ganguly also told Mid-Day that he had worked in Chhaava (2025), which also starred Akshaye Khanna. He stated, “Akshaye didn’t have any dancing to do in Chhaava. When he is on set, there is not much interaction outside of work. He is completely immersed in his character, thinking and trying to see what more he can do to enhance his scene.”

Also Read: Dhurandhar Trailer Out: Akshaye Khanna’s savage new look dominates the buzz

Hema Malini to host Delhi prayer meet for Dharmendra on December 11 with daughters Esha Deol and Ahana Deol

Hema Malini is preparing to host a special prayer meeting in New Delhi in remembrance of her late husband, legendary actor Dharmendra. The gathering will be held with the support of her daughters Esha Deol and Ahana Deol, as well as sons-in-law Bharat Takhtani and Vaibhav Vohra. As per NDTV sources, the prayer meet is scheduled for December 11, 2025 (Thursday), between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM at the Dr Ambedkar International Centre, Janpath, New Delhi.

This Delhi gathering follows the first prayer meet organised by the Deol family on November 27 at Taj Lands End, Mumbai. The memorial event witnessed a significant turnout from the film fraternity. At the venue entrance, Dharmendra’s sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, along with other family members, greeted guests with folded hands as they arrived to honour the late veteran. The tribute ended with a heartfelt musical performance by Sonu Nigam, who sang some of Dharmendra’s most loved songs including ‘Aa Ja Jaane Wale,’ ‘Rahe Na Rahe Hum,’ ‘Aaj Mausam Bada Beimaan Hai,’ and ‘Apne Toh Apne Hote Hain.’

Several well-known Bollywood celebrities attended the Mumbai prayer meet, such as Salman Khan, Aishwarya Rai, Abhishek Bachchan, Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Jackie Shroff, Tiger Shroff, Vidya Balan, Aryan Khan, Vivek Oberoi, Suresh Oberoi, among many others.

In addition to the public tribute, a number of close acquaintances visited Hema Malini privately at her Mumbai residence to offer condolences. Those who met her personally included Mahima Chaudhry, Fardeen Khan, and Sunita Ahuja along with her son Yashvardhan.

Ahead of the upcoming Delhi service, Hema Malini also organised a Gita Paath at her home in Dharmendra’s memory. Meanwhile, Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol marked Dharmendra’s 90th birthday on December 8 by celebrating with fans at the family home.

Also Read : Hema Malini pens heartfelt note remembering Dharmendra on his birth anniversary: “The joyful memories of our life together can never be erased”

Javed Akhtar fumes at the changed dialogue in Sholay - The Final Cut trailer, "No, you can't tamper with this"

The new version of the all-time classic Sholay re-releases on December 12. Titled Sholay –  The Final Cut, it’ll resurrect the neo-classic’s original ending, which has never been shown in movie theatres in the 50 years of the film’s existence.

What has shocked and caused widespread outrage is that one of the many iconic dialogues in Sholay has been altered in the new version. By whose permission? Nobody knows.

Certainly not director Ramesh Sippy or the film’s co-writer Javed Akhtar, who was livid when informed about the altered catchline in Sholay – The Final Cut.

In the said dialogue Basanti (Hema Malini) says, “Bade nishaanchi lagte ho (you seem quite a sharpshooter)” to Veeru (Dharmendra). In reply, Jai (Amitabh Bachchan) jokes, “Haan, James Bond ke pote hain yeh”.

In the trailer of Sholay – The Final Cut, Jai’s dialogue is “Haan, Tatya Tope ke pote hain yeh”!

Fumed Javed saab, “I was not aware of this! You mean to say, they have replaced James Bond with Tatya Tope? What does this mean? And this is just one dialogue. They might have similarly changed other famous lines. The audience won’t accept this.”

Javed saab also wonders by whose consent this change has taken. “Have they spoken to the director (Ramesh Sippy)?”

I informed Javed Saab that no one has spoken to Ramesh Sippy.

“They have certainly not spoken to me or to Salim saab (Khan). We are the writers of those lines that are recited even today by fans of Sholay. In fact, the dialogues of Sholay were so popular that the music company Polydor (now Universal Music) had to release an album of dialogues which sold more than the songs album. No, you can’t tamper with this.”

Also Read: SHOCKING: ‘James Bond’ replaced with ‘Tatya Tope’ in a crucial dialogue; has the team behind Sholay – The Final Cut TAMPERED with the classic?

After Chanel, Ananya Panday lands global ambassadorship with American Eagle

Ananya Panday has officially been announced as the Global Ambassador for American Eagle marking yet another major milestone in her growing brand journey. After fronting campaigns for some of the world’s biggest names, from luxury houses like Chanel to now one of the most loved denim and lifestyle brands - American Eagle. Ananya continues to stay at the centre of global conversations. Her easy, relatable energy and Gen Z flair make her a natural fit for brands that want to speak directly to the new-age consumer.

Sharing her experience, Ananya Panday said, “Being part of this global campaign feels like a day pulled straight from my off-screen life – easy fits, nothing fussy, and jeans that actually move with me. American Eagle gets that balance of comfort and style so right, and that’s why these pieces feel like my everyday wardrobe.”

It’s exactly this effortless charm that makes brands gravitate toward her. Whether it’s luxury, beauty, lifestyle or now global denim brand, Ananya has quickly become one of the industry’s most dependable and widely loved brand faces.

With every new partnership, she’s proving that her appeal goes beyond stardom — it’s her honesty, her comfort-first approach and her youthful confidence that make her a favourite for both Indian and international brands. One global ambassadorship after another, Ananya Panday is clearly on a continuous rise and there seems to be no slowing down.

Also Read: Kartik Aaryan praises Ananya Panday in Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri: “She’s talented, she keeps working hard on herself”

The inside story of how Ahaan Panday became Harley-Davidson’s first-ever brand ambassador and how YRF engineered this historic deal

Ahaan Panday signed as the first ever Brand Ambassador of Harley-Davidson stamping the Gen Z star’s impact on pop culture globally with Saiyaara!

Harley-Davidson, the legendary name in motorcycling and synonymous to biking culture globally, has announced Ahaan Panday as the first ever Brand Ambassador that stamps the Saiyaara star’s impact on pop culture globally! It also marks the brand’s strategic focus towards engaging the next generation of riders across the world.

Recognized as India’s breakthrough Gen Z star as Saiyaara delivered 580 crores at the global box office, Ahaan Panday has rapidly become a cultural force whose influence crosses borders as he appeals to India and South Asian youth worldwide.

A source reveals more about how this landmark deal was struck by Ahaan’s management agency and why YRF Talent planned this to be the first massive endorsement announcement for Ahaan.

A top industry insider who structures deals in celebrity brand endorsement space informed Bollywood Hungama, “Ahaan represents a fearless, future-ready global youth culture of India. His energy and authenticity align seamlessly with Harley-Davidson’s ethos of freedom on one’s own terms. YRF is positioning Ahaan to be the heir apparent in Bollywood. So, the decision is to be selective but iconic for Ahaan with brand endorsements. They wanted everyone to notice Ahaan to be peerless after Saiyaara’s success, and Harley-Davidson is simply in an entirely different league of brands. They never had a brand ambassador, so we can see how the strategy is crystal clear - Ahaan won’t walk the road that others walk on and will not do the routine brands that others have signed. He will only do things that stand out and stand apart.”

The source says, “The germ of this collaboration came when the teams noted the spike in interest for Harley-Davidson as soon as the film released. Social media was filled with conversations about how Ahaan matched the aura and legacy of Harley-Davidson. Some informers tell us that there was a massive surge in interest at the showrooms of Harley-Davidson with people wanting to buy the bike or create content with it during Saiyaara campaign and film’s post release as it became a historic blockbuster.”

The source further says, “Harley-Davidson decided to do something they had never done for India - get a face for the brand! One should recognise

how huge this is and what it signals to the industry about Ahaan! Basically what Harley-Davidson is saying is that they have finally found a face that fits into the brand’s legacy and feel will have a lasting impact that transcends decades. In short, they are saying Ahaan will be the next superstar of this country. Everyone should take notice of this power move by Harley-Davidson. Ahaan’s exclusivity and soaring fandom has been given a hat-tip by this iconic brand and we expect many such global giants to sign him on soon.”

In a landscape where everyone is saying that Bollywood is undergoing a generational change, Ahaan stands out as someone ushering in a new era, a new dawn of stardom with Saiyaara.

Industry, media and audiences see him as a face of the future - not tied to legacy, but aligned with how Gen Z visualises its own icons who make it big themselves with their sheer talent. To millions of young Indians, Ahaan symbolises ambition with relatability, success built from authenticity.

“Ahaan’s next brand announcements are expected to happen in January and February after the Christmas holidays. There are more global campaigns that will be dropped and these brands want to announce him as the face after the clutter Christmas and New Year holidays,” the trade source informs.

Also Read: Ahaan Panday signs his first brand; becomes the brand ambassador for Harley-Davidson India

Aryan Khan reveals that he DUBBED for Salman Khan in The Ba***ds Of Bollywood; adds, “When Shah Rukh Khan’s on set, EVERYONE behaves exceptionally well

It’s been more than two months since the release of The Ba***ds Of Bollywood and it continues to be talked about. It was Aryan Khan’s debut vehicle, and he impressed one and all not just with its storytelling but also with its humour and subtle Bollywood references. He recently gave an interview to GQ India, where he shared a very fascinating trivia.

The GQ Interview India revealed that Aryan Khan can mimic really well. On this, Aryan said, “Fun fact, in the show, when Salman Khan says, ‘What party? Bullshit party,’ that’s actually me!”

Besides Shah Rukh Khan, The Ba***ds Of Bollywood had cameos by several other stars including his father, superstar Shah Rukh Khan. The others who make a special appearance are Karan Johar, Ranveer Singh, Siddhant Chaturvedi, Disha Patani, Orry, Shanaya Kapoor, Ibrahim Ali Khan, Rajkummar Rao, Sara Ali Khan, Aamir Khan, S S Rajamouli, Badshah and Ranbir Kapoor. Emraan Hashmi had an extended special appearance and that also became a rage. The actors with the prominent screen presence in The Ba***ds Of Bollywood were Lakshya, Bobby, Sahher Bambba, Anya Singh, Raghav Juyal, Mona Singh, Vijayant Kohli, Manish Chaudhari, Rajat Bedi, and Gautami Kapoor, among others.

On his father, SRK, Aryan Khan stated, “He’s the easiest person to work with. He knows exactly what to do, how to do it. And when he’s on set, everyone else behaves exceptionally well.”

At the recently concluded Bollywood Hungama OTT Fest and India Entertainment Awards, The Ba***ds Of Bollywood won 5 awards – Aryan Khan for Best Director [Original Series], Raghav Juyal for Breakthrough Performer of the Year, Anya Singh for Best Supporting Actor – Female [Original Series] and Rajat Bedi for Best Supporting Actor – Male [Original Series].

To celebrate his victory, Aryan took to his Instagram Stories and re-shared a post originally shared by Red Chillies Entertainment. The image featured his award-winning title card with his portrait, showcasing the golden laurel for “Best Director (Original Series).” Expressing gratitude, Aryan wrote, “Thank you! @realbollywoodhungama”, acknowledging the honour with humility and pride. His story—featuring the award poster—instantly began circulating among fans and entertainment pages, further amplifying the buzz around his big win.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: From Shah Rukh Khan’s guidance to Bobby Deol’s advice, Anya Singh reveals heartwarming side of shooting Aaryan Khan’s The Ba***ds of Bollywood

Ahaan Panday signs his first brand; becomes the brand ambassador for Harley-Davidson India

In a move that signals both star-making ambition and smart brand synergy, Harley-Davidson India has officially signed Saiyaara breakout Ahaan Panday as the new face of the iconic motorcycle brand. The announcement came with the launch of the Harley-Davidson X440 T, a refreshed, muscular variant of the already popular X440 and with it, the arrival of a new youth icon for the Harley tribe.

For Ahaan Panday, who has been riding a wave of attention since his debut in Mohit Suri’s Saiyaara, this marks a major milestone: his first-ever brand endorsement. And it’s a big one. Harley-Davidson, synonymous with freedom, rebellion and a cult-like following, doesn’t often place such early bets on emerging talent. But industry insiders say the pairing makes perfect sense.

The bike boasts upgraded suspension, an enhanced riding stance, new colour palettes, and subtle design tweaks aimed at younger urban riders. Harley-Davidson India executives described the model as a bridge between legacy and modernity a theme mirroring Ahaan’s own positioning in Bollywood.

 

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Harley-Davidson India (@harleydavidson_india)

The collaboration also hints at Ahaan’s emerging public persona: someone who’s unafraid to sit at the intersection of performance and style. For Harley-Davidson, signing a fresh face rather than an established superstar signals its continued push to stay culturally current and deepen its presence among India’s rapidly expanding young rider community. The brand has been recalibrating its India strategy over the past few years.

With Ahaan stepping in as ambassador, expect a new wave of campaigns across digital and experiential platforms, including content-driven storytelling, lifestyle-led imagery and possible riding collaborations tied to the Saiyaara actor’s personal journey.

For now, the message is clear: Ahaan Panday is shifting gears not just in cinema, but in India’s brand landscape. And Harley-Davidson has found a fresh, market-ready rider to take the X440 T into the next chapter of its India story.

Also Read: Ahaan Panday finally breaks silence on rumoured romance with Aneet Padda: “She’s not my girlfriend”

Multiplex Association of India sounds alarm over Netflix–Warner Bros. mega deal; calls it ‘a direct threat to theatrical ecosystem’

The Multiplex Association of India (MAI) has issued a strong statement expressing “deep concern” over Netflix’s proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, calling the development a potential setback for India’s theatrical landscape. The industry body, which represents multiplex chains across the country, cautioned that the merger could disrupt the supply of major studio films to cinemas — a key driver for footfalls, revenues and industry stability.

On December 5, Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery announced a landmark agreement valued at an enterprise price of $82.7 billion, marking one of the biggest entertainment mergers to date. The deal, expected to close after the separation of WBD’s Global Networks division in Q3 2026, would bring Warner Bros.’ storied film studios, HBO and HBO Max under Netflix’s umbrella. While Netflix has stated it will maintain Warner Bros.’ theatrical operations, MAI believes the streaming platform’s historical approach to cinema releases raises red flags.

Kamal Gianchandani, President of MAI, underscored the gravity of the situation in a detailed statement. “The Indian theatrical market thrives on choice, scale, and cultural diversity. Warner Bros. has historically been a key partner to Indian cinemas, contributing consistently to our release calendar with successful global and local titles,” he said.

Highlighting the extensive economic footprint of cinemas, Gianchandani added, “Cinemas in India are more than entertainment venues. They are cultural hubs and significant economic contributors. They support millions of livelihoods across production, distribution, exhibition, F&B, and ancillary services.”

MAI stressed that Netflix’s long-standing preference for limited theatrical releases could severely affect the flow of studio content to cinemas. “Netflix has consistently made it clear through its limited and highly restrictive approach to theatrical releases that it does not believe in the cinema-first model,” the statement read.

“If this acquisition proceeds, the risk is two-fold — a meaningful reduction in high-quality content for cinemas, and the potential for shortened or non-existent theatrical windows. This would inevitably impact revenues, limit consumer choice, and weaken the broader ecosystem of film production, distribution, and exhibition in India,” Gianchandani warned.

The association further stated that a consolidation of this scale “warrants careful scrutiny,” adding that it will continue to present its concerns to regulatory authorities in India and abroad.

As the Netflix–Warner Bros. deal continues to generate worldwide debate, MAI’s strong stance highlights the growing tension between streaming-first strategies and the traditional theatrical business — a conflict that could reshape how audiences in India experience global cinema in the years ahead.

Also Read: Netflix set to acquire Warner Bros. in groundbreaking $82.7 billion deal

NTR Jr ditches body double, gears up for dangerous December nights on Dragon

Next month, NTR Jr will be shooting rigorous action sequences almost through all of December at Ramoji Film City. These sequences are said to be far riskier and more heart-in-the-mouth than anything the superstar has attempted in any of his previous action films.

This time, NTR is using no body double. A source close to the development reveals, “Tarak is very clear that the days of body doubles are over. Even Salman Khan, who has relied on duplicates for most of his stunts so far, is doing his own stunts in his new film. Every superstar is Tom Cruising now—and so is NTR.”

The plan is to shoot these stunt blocks for Prashanth Neel’s film (rumoured to be titled Dragon) for three weeks of night schedules throughout December. However, the timeline may get extended by another week depending on progress.

Interestingly, NTR has reportedly not informed his wife and children about the hazardous stunt work he will be undertaking next month.

Also Read: NTRNeel: Prashanth Neel, Jr NTR film enters its most intense shooting phase yet as extensive night schedules begin this December

Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol unveil DDLJ bronze statue in London’s Leicester Square

Bollywood icons Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol marked a memorable moment on December 4, 2025, by unveiling a bronze statue of their legendary characters Raj and Simran from the 1995 classic Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ) at London’s famed Leicester Square.

Despite cold, rainy weather, the pair captivated the gathered audience and media, recreating the film’s iconic pose with radiant smiles. Shah Rukh Khan looked sharp in a black suit, while Kajol radiated grace in a mint-green saree. The new bronze statue is the first ever dedicated to an Indian film at Leicester Square, placing DDLJ alongside global cinematic icons like those from Harry Potter, Mary Poppins, Paddington, Singin’ in the Rain, and heroic figures like Batman and Wonder Woman. The statue captures the film’s signature pose — a moment the duo lovingly recreated during the ceremony. Reflecting on the anniversary, Shah Rukh Khan said, “DDLJ was made with a pure heart. We wanted to tell a story about love — how it can bridge barriers and how the world would be a better place if it had a lot more love in it — and I think this is why DDLJ has had a lasting impact for over 30 years now! Personally, DDLJ is part of my identity, and it is humbling to see the film, and Kajol and me, receiving so much love since it was released.” He added, “I am thankful to the people of the United Kingdom and the Heart of London Business Alliance for celebrating DDLJ and immortalising us with such a gesture. Seeing DDLJ become the first Indian film to be honoured in the iconic Scenes in the Square trail is an emotional moment and has brought back so many memories. I feel immense pride knowing the film has been embraced around the world, and I want to share this moment with the entire cast and crew of DDLJ, my friend and director Aditya Chopra, and the Yash Raj Films family. This is a moment I will never forget!”

Bade Bade Deshon Mein, Aisi Chhoti Chhoti Baatein Hoti Rehti Hain, Senorita!

Thrilled to unveil the bronze statue of Raj & Simran at London’s Leicester Square today, celebrating 30 years of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ)!

Incredibly delighted that DDLJ is the first Indian… pic.twitter.com/8wjLToBGYc — Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) December 4, 2025

He also shared a heartfelt post on X, writing, “Bade bade deshon mein, aisi chhoti chhoti baatein hoti rehti hain, Senorita!”

Kajol too expressed her gratitude: “It’s incredible to see Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge continue to receive so much love, even 30 years later. Watching the statue being unveiled in London felt like reliving a piece of our history - a story that has truly travelled across generations.”

She further added, “Seeing it find its rightful place in Leicester Square, a location of such enormous significance to DDLJ, makes this moment even more special. For the film to be honoured in this way in the UK - the first Indian film to receive such recognition - is something that will forever stay in the hearts and minds of all DDLJ fans across the world. I'm grateful to everyone who continues to keep our film in their hearts after all these years.” The statue now joins the “Scenes in the Square” trail  a tribute to global film heritage and stands as a tribute to DDLJ’s enduring legacy, resonating with fans around the world decades after its release. Also Read : Shah Rukh Khan pens heartfelt tribute to Andre Russell on his retirement from IPL

SHOCKING: Nandamuri Balakrishna’s Akhanda 2 Postponed INDEFINITELY

Nandamuri Balakrishna’s highly awaited Akhanda 2 has hit a massive hurdle just hours before its big release, leaving fans and trade in complete shock. The Boyapati Sreenu directorial, pitched as a grand, larger-scale sequel to the 2021 blockbuster Akhanda (2021), was slated to arrive in cinemas worldwide on December 5, 2025, with paid premieres on December 4. Instead, the film is now indefinitely postponed, with no new release date in sight.

It became clear on December 4 itself that things were not fine, as there was confusion over theatre bookings and showcasing. By evening, paid premieres were officially called off, and even overseas KDMs reportedly did not go through, forcing distributors to pull shows at the last minute. This led to frustration and disappointment for Balakrishna’s followers.

Soon after, the production house 14 Reels Plus broke its silence on social media, confirming that Akhanda 2 would not release as scheduled, citing “unavoidable circumstances” and calling it a “painful moment” for the team. The makers added that they have been working tirelessly to resolve the issue at the earliest and apologized to audiences eagerly awaiting the film. They also made it clear that the new release date will be finalised only after financial hurdles are cleared, effectively confirming that the delay is not a routine postponement but a serious setback.

With a heavy heart, we regret to inform you that #Akhanda2 will not be releasing as scheduled due to unavoidable circumstances.

This is a painful moment for us, and we truly understand the disappointment it brings to every fan and movie lover awaiting the film.

We are working… — 14 Reels Plus (@14ReelsPlus) December 4, 2025

Reportedly, the makers faced a legal battle. As per The Economic Times, the Madras High Court recently passed an order restraining the release of Akhanda 2 after Eros International Media Limited approached the court. Eros holds an arbitral award of around Rs 28 crore against 14 Reels Entertainment Pvt Ltd, a group entity linked to the producers. The company argued that releasing the film under the banner 14 Reels Plus LLP could be seen as an attempt to sidestep these financial obligations. A division bench therefore, issued an injunction barring any theatrical, streaming, or commercial release of the film until further orders.

With the court’s injunction in place and financial disputes unresolved, Akhanda 2 is effectively stuck in limbo. For the industry, the halt comes as a surprise given the strong buzz, Balakrishna’s massive fanbase, and the sequel’s positioning as a major tentpole title. For fans, the wait for the return of the powerful Akhanda avatar just got longer, with all eyes now on how quickly the producers and stakeholders can untangle the legal and monetary knots and bring the film back on track.

Also Read: Akhanda 2 Thandavam teaser out! Nandamuri Balakrishna returns in fierce avatar for Pan-India sequel

Vicky Kaushal buys Rs 3 crore Lexus LM350h Ultra Luxury MPV

Bollywood star Vicky Kaushal has expanded his enviable automobile collection with the addition of the ultra-luxurious Lexus LM350h 4-Seater Ultra Luxury, one of the most premium MPVs currently available in India. According to registration details accessed yesterday, the actor’s latest set of wheels carries an eye-watering price tag ranging between Rs.2.69 crore and Rs.3 crore, depending on the customisation and on-road additions.

The Lexus LM350h has quickly emerged as a favourite among India’s elite, thanks to its unparalleled comfort, hybrid efficiency, and limousine-like cabin experience. Vicky Kaushal’s newly acquired 4-seater model stands out for its lounge-style rear compartment, complete with plush recliner seats, a massive 48-inch HD display, premium sound insulation, and a host of comfort-focused amenities designed to create a “first-class in motion” experience.

The LM350h is powered by Lexus’ advanced 2.5-litre hybrid petrol engine, paired with an electric motor for smooth and silent cruising. The Ultra Luxury variant prioritises comfort, offering features such as a powered partition, climate-controlled seating, soft-close doors, and adaptive suspension, making it one of the most sophisticated MPVs on Indian roads.

Vicky Kaushal, known for his love for high-performance and premium cars, has added yet another standout vehicle to his growing garage. The actor, who has been busy with film commitments and new projects, was reportedly keen on upgrading to a vehicle that offers both luxury and practicality for long hours of travel between shoots, events, and family commitments.

With its registration completed yesterday, the Lexus LM350h 4S Ultra Luxury becomes one of the most expensive and exclusive vehicles owned by the star, further strengthening his status as one of Bollywood’s most stylish automobile enthusiasts.

Also Read: Vicky Kaushal on emotional moment after becoming a father: “It’s been the most grounding moment”

SCOOP: Delivery of Dhurandhar's IMAX prints delayed; IMAX properties might play non-IMAX version of Ranveer Singh-starrer on release day

One of the biggest films of the year, Dhurandhar, is all set to release in cinemas tomorrow, December 5, and the excitement is tremendous. The film will also be released in IMAX, a move appreciated by cinephiles, as the trailer makes clear it’s a film mounted on a large scale and fit for as big a screen as possible. However, if you are planning to watch the film at an IMAX cinema on Friday, you might have to make do with a non-IMAX version, according to exhibition sources.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “There has been a delay in the delivery of IMAX content of Dhurandhar. The makers of the team are trying their best, but it seems like on Friday, the content won’t reach the IMAX theatres.”

The source further said, “Hence, theatres have been informed to play the non-IMAX version of Dhurandhar in the IMAX properties on Friday. However, the team is racing against time to ensure this doesn’t happen. As a result, there is a chance that the IMAX presentation will begin playing in cinemas from Friday evening though there are high chances that the content will be made available only on Saturday. A clearer picture will emerge by Thursday night.”

Dhurandhar stars Ranveer Singh in the lead along with Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna, R Madhavan, Arjun Rampal and Sara Arjun. It is backed by Jio Studios and B62 Studios, produced by Jyoti Deshpande and Lokesh Dhar and written, produced and directed by Aditya Dhar of Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019) fame.

Bollywood Hungama earlier exclusively informed the readers that 2000 fans would assemble at the grand trailer launch of Dhurandhar at the iconic Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre in Mumbai. We were also the first ones to break the news that Dhurandhar is a two-part saga and that it has a run time of more than 3 hours and 30 minutes. The censor certificate has confirmed that the final duration of Dhurandhar is 214 minutes, that is, 3 hours and 34 minutes.

Also Read: REVEALED: Dhurandhar’s first half is 2 hours and 4 minutes long; overseas delivery delayed; first day early shows might be affected in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji

REVEALED: Dhurandhar's first half is 2 hours and 4 minutes long; overseas delivery delayed; first day early shows might be affected in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji

A day is left for the release of Dhurandhar and Bollywood Hungama has learned that the makers are in a race against time to deliver the content in cinemas.

 

A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, "This usually happens with South films and it's rare to see what's happening with Dhurandhar. The content delivery has got delayed and has not been delivered in overseas territories. This has caused distress among the distributors releasing the film in foreign shores."

The trade source continued, "All eyes are on Australia, New Zealand and Fiji. As per the time zone, these territories will play Dhurandhar first. But due to non delivery of content, it is expected that the few shows of the film in these countries will be cancelled. The team is making sure that at least the shows on Friday evening and night play as per the schedule. Also, the team is also trying its best to supply the content in other foreign territories like the United Kingdom, Middle East, North America etc."

2 hour long first half Meanwhile, exhibition insiders have shared an interesting information with Bollywood Hungama, "The first half of the film is more than 2 hours long, clocking a run time of 2 hours and 4 minutes. The second half is comparatively shorter, as it has a duration of 1 hours and 28 minutes."

No IMAX on Friday Earlier in the day, Bollywood Hungama reported that in India, the IMAX version of Dhurandhar will not be played on Friday. The IMAX properties will play the non-IMAX version, again, due to non delivery of content on time. However, a source said, "The makers of the team are trying their best, but it seems like on Friday, the content won’t reach the IMAX theatres.”

 

SCOOP: Did Sunny Kaushal replace Saif Ali Khan in Ramesh Taurani's daughter Sneha Taurani's film last minute?

In a surprising turn of events, Saif Ali Khan has reportedly walked out of filmmaker Sneha Taurani’s upcoming project, just days before the film’s shoot was scheduled to begin.

The actor, who had officially committed to the project and even attended its mahurat ceremony on October 27, 2025, has now opted out, leaving the makers and producers scrambling for a replacement.

A source close to the development revealed, “He didn’t feel it was the right film for him to do,” though the decision came much later than expected, creating last-minute challenges for the team.

The film was being produced by Ramesh Taurani, one of Bollywood’s most established producers, who has earlier collaborated with Saif on blockbusters like Race, Race 2, and BhootPolice (2021). He even did Kya Kehna produced by Ramesh Taurani in 2000, the two go back a long way. Reportedly, Ramesh Taurani wasted no time and has now cast Sunny Kaushal in the role originally meant for Saif. Kaushal reunites with director Sneha Taurani after their 2020 film Bhangra Paa Le.

Industry insiders say Taurani is “deeply upset” with Saif’s last-minute withdrawal and is unlikely to work with the actor again, casting doubt over Saif’s participation in Race 4 and Bhoot Police 2.

At a time when the industry is grappling with mounting losses, actors backing out of confirmed projects has become a worrying trend, putting additional strain on producers and release schedules.

Bollywood Hungama reached out to Saif Ali Khan and Ramesh Taurani at the time of publishing, but both did not comment.

EXCLUSIVE: Viineet Kumar Siingh, Saurabh Shukla join Manoj Bajpayee, Rajkummar Rao for Shoojit Sircar’s MYTHO-HUMOUR film

Shoojit Sircar has carved a niche for himself with his films like Vicky Donor (2012), Piku (2015), October (2024), Sardar Udham (2021) and the recently released flick, I Want To Talk (2024). Bollywood Hungama has now learned some exciting information about his next film, which is going to be the first-ever mytho-humour entertainer.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “It marks Shoojit Sircar’s much-awaited return to humour. The acclaimed filmmaker, known for bringing warmth, wit and sharp observation to films such as Vicky Donor and Piku, is now stepping into an entirely new space with his first-ever Mytho Humour entertainer.”

In industry circles, the project has begun to make noise, for all the right reasons. The source said, “A massive, elaborate set is being constructed by Sardar Udham’s National Award-winning production designer, Mansi Dhruv Mehta. Inspired by a key chapter from the Mahabharat, the world being built blends mythology with a contemporary and satirical lens.”

Adding to the excitement is the stellar ensemble. The source said, “It is known that Manoj Bajpayee and Rajkummar Rao are a part of the film. The team of the movie have now welcomed Saurabh Shukla and Viineet Kumar Siingh to the cast. Both actors, celebrated for their versatility and their command over humour and drama, are expected to bring a fresh dynamic to this inventive retelling.”

Produced by Rising Sun Films and Kino Works and backed by Ronnie Lahiri and Sheel Kumar, the film is in full scale pre-production with the set construction currently underway. The project is slated to go on floors in early 2026.

With its unique mytho-humour flavour, an ambitious Mahabharat-inspired set, and a cast led by Manoj Bajpayee, Rajkummar Rao, Saurabh Shukla and Viineet Kumar Singh, Shoojit Sircar’s next is already being keenly watched by trade and cinephiles alike. If all goes as planned, this inventive entertainer could well mark not just the filmmaker’s refreshing return to humour, but also open the doors for a new, sharply written genre that blends mythology, satire and emotion for today’s audiences.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Viineet Kumar Siingh on working with Anurag Kashyap again in Nishaanchi, “He doesn’t offer comfort; he strips it away so you can find truth”

BREAKING: "21 previews of Ikkis in 21 cities on 21 December" - Dinesh Vijan makes an EXCITING announcement at BH OTT India Fest 2025

Agastya Nanda, Jaideep Ahlawat, Simar Bhatia, director Sriram Raghavan and producer Dinesh Vijan promoted their much-awaited film Ikkis on the first day of the Bollywood Hungama OTT India Fest and India Entertainment Awards 2025. The team of the film appears very confident of the film. As a result, blockbuster producer Dinesh Vijan of Maddock Films made a very headline-grabbing announcement.

Dinesh Vijan said, “I want this film to mean as much to you guys as it means to us. From tomorrow (December 4), it will be 21 days until Ikkis releases. We are trying that Sriram delivers the copy to us at least 11 days before the release.”

He then announced, “Whenever and wherever we travel, we’ll first show the film and then talk about it. That’s how much we love this film.”

Dinesh Vijan also opened up about paid previews, which would be held as early as 4 days before the release. He explained, “On December 21, which is 4 days before the release, we are going to watch this film along with screenings in 21 other cities! People from all across would come together and see the film together. That’s what we have decided because it’s easier to say that ‘This is the best film we have made’. But when you put it out and get more people involved, there would be more conversation.”

Ikkis releases in cinemas on December 25.

The Bollywood Hungama OTT India Fest and India Entertainment Awards are presented by SleepZ by Raymond, co-powered by Fima, Carlo Frattini, and Amante in association with Helios, Style Partner: Rare Rabbit, Lovestory Partner: Truly Madly, Stylish Furniture Partner: Urban Ladder, with healthcare partner: HCG, skincare partner: Fixferma, Spirituality partner: Satvik, conversation partner: Bevzilla, gourmet dessert partner: Smoor, nutrition partner: The Naturik Co., radio partner: Radio City and celebration partner: Heineken Silver.

Also Read: Ikkis director Sriram Raghavan reveals, “Dharmendra had seen 70% of the film; regret he couldn’t watch final product”; recalls his first meeting during Johnny Gaddaar: “I wondered, ‘He was MP and I was offering him a gangster film. What would he think?’”

Neha Sharma questioned by ED in online betting money-laundering probe

Actor Neha Sharma was questioned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday as part of its ongoing investigation into suspected money laundering linked to an online betting application. The agency had issued a summons to Sharma, who is also the daughter of Congress leader Ajit Sharma, seeking details regarding her association with the platform.

According to officials cited by the PTI, Sharma’s statement is being recorded under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Investigators are reportedly examining her involvement through promotional activities connected to the app. The actor has not made any public comment regarding the development.

Sharma, known for her roles in Yamla Pagla Deewana 2 (2013), Solo (2017), and Tanhaji (2020), has also worked in the digital space with the series Illegal. She has appeared in short films, including Kriti and Vikalp, playing central characters in both.

Her appearance comes amid a wider scrutiny of celebrities linked to the betting platform. In recent months, the ED has questioned several public figures, including Sonu Sood, Vijay Deverakonda, Prakash Raj, Urvashi Rautela, Shikhar Dhawan, Yuvraj Singh, and Rana Daggubati.

Actor Prakash Raj, summoned in July, addressed the media about the inquiry: “As a citizen of this country, the officers had called on the money laundering of the betting apps, and I have come. It was something that I did in 2016, and later, on moral grounds, I did not pursue it. I gave them information that I have not received any money because I did not want to take money from that. They have taken all the details and we finished the enquiry, and that’s it."

Similarly, Vijay Deverakonda, questioned in August, clarified, “I was summoned because my name came up in connection with a betting app case. In India, there are two different categories – betting apps and gaming apps. I clearly explained that I promoted a gaming app called A23. There is no connection between betting apps and gaming apps. Gaming apps are legal in several states. They are registered, have GST, taxes, and necessary approvals.”

Also Read : Red Fort Blast: Celebrities flood social media with heartfelt condolences

Aamir Khan Productions announces Vir Das’ quirky spy film Happy Patel, set to release on January 16

Aamir Khan Productions has announced its quirky spy film Happy Patel. Marking Vir Das’ directorial debut, the film stars Vir Das alongside Mona Singh. True to its playful title, the makers released a humorous announcement video featuring both Aamir Khan and Vir Das, adding to the film’s fun vibe.

The announcement of Happy Patel comes in an unconventional and humorous style. In the video, Aamir Khan questions Vir Das’ approach to depicting action, romance, and even an item number in the film. While Aamir seems concerned about audience reactions, the video also shows others praising the film. This playful contrast makes the announcement highly entertaining and signals that a very different kind of cinema is on its way.

 

View this post on Instagram

  A post shared by Aamir Khan Productions (@aamirkhanproductions)

Aamir Khan Productions has consistently explored unconventional storytelling with finesse. With acclaimed films like Lagaan, Taare Zameen Par, Dangal, and Secret Superstar, the studio continues its tradition of unique cinema. For Happy Patel, they are teaming up with renowned stand-up comedian Vir Das, who has performed globally with his comedy specials and acted in films like Go Goa Gone, Badmaash Company, and Delhi Belly. This marks Vir’s second collaboration with Aamir Khan Productions, following Delhi Belly.

Also Read : Aamir Khan calls Rangeela his “most favourite” as it re-releases in theatres after 30 years

Kartik Aaryan’s parents buy Rs 10.83 crores office in Vile Parle, add to family’s expanding Mumbai holdings

Kartik Aaryan’s family has expanded its real-estate footprint in Mumbai with another major acquisition, as the actor’s parents purchased a premium commercial unit in Vile Parle. The deal marks yet another significant property investment linked to the actor in recent months, highlighting a clear trend of strategic expansion.

According to documents accessed by Zapkey and reported by NDTV Profit, Kartik’s parents, Mala Tiwari and Manish Tiwari, bought the office space for Rs 10.83 crores. In addition to the purchase price, the family paid Rs 65 lakh as stamp duty. The registration of the sale was completed on November 27, 2025. The commercial unit spans 1,228 sq ft of carpet area and comes with two dedicated parking slots, making it a substantial addition to their growing real-estate portfolio.

The property was acquired from Notan House Pvt. Ltd. As per the developer’s website, the building offers convenient accessibility to multiple transport hubs — located about 1.6 km from Vile Parle railway station, 3 km from Andheri station, and around 6.5 km from the Bandra–Worli Sea Link. This makes the location strategically advantageous for both business and connectivity.

This purchase follows earlier reports from September indicating that Kartik Aaryan himself had secured a commercial office space in Andheri valued at Rs 13 crores. Around the same period, the actor also purchased a 2,000 sq. ft. plot at Chateau de Alibaug for Rs 2 crores. Speaking about that investment, Kartik had said, “Alibaug has become one of the most exciting places to invest in today — close to Mumbai and I plan to build my own home there. This is the first time I have invested in land and with full trust in The House of Abhinandan Lodha. I’m glad to have made this investment.”

On the work front, Kartik is preparing for the release of his upcoming romantic comedy Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri, co-starring Ananya Panday, which is set to hit theatres on December 25, 2025. The film’s trailer has already sparked strong curiosity among audiences. The actor is also simultaneously working on Naagzilla, expected to release in August next year.

Also Read : SCOOP: Kartik Aaryan’s third film with Karan Johar is an action entertainer directed by Sandeep Modi

EXCLUSIVE: Dhurandhar is Ranveer Singh's FIRST-ever 'A' rated film; final length locked at 214 minutes; CBFC censors violent visuals in 2 scenes, mutes cuss word

Three days are left for the release of Dhurandhar and the excitement is slowly building by the day for the Ranveer Singh-starrer. After giving some of the biggest and viral news exclusively about the action entertainer, Bollywood Hungama now brings to you the cut list of Dhurandhar.

Bollywood Hungama was the first one to tell you that Dhurandhar’s runtime is expected to be 3 hours and 32 minutes. The censor certificate has now given the confirmed run time of the film – 214.01 minutes. In other words, the film is 3 hours, 34 minutes and 1 second long, making it the lengthiest film in 17 years for Bollywood. The last film with such a lengthy run time was Jodhaa Akbar (2008); the historical was also 214 minutes long.

Moreover, Dhurandhar has been awarded an ‘A’ certificate. In short, this is Ranveer Singh’s first film in 15 years, which is adult-rated.

Now, coming to the cuts. The makers were asked to add the voiceover for the Hindi disclaimer. Accordingly, the duration of the disclaimer was increased to accommodate the voiceover. The anti-drug static and anti-smoking static were added in scenes where characters are seen consuming the addictive substances.

At the beginning of the film, the visuals of violence were deleted and replaced with appropriate shots. In the second half, the CBFC (Central Board of Film Certification) members asked the makers to reduce the violent visuals. The character name of a minister was 'suitably changed'. Lastly, a cuss word was muted.

One more change that happened at the censor process was that the makers added music and additional scenes to the end credits.

Once these changes were made, the censor certificate was handed over to the makers of Dhurandhar on December 2. Backed by Jio Studios and B62 Studios, the film also stars Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna, R Madhavan, Arjun Rampal and Sara Arjun. Directed by Aditya Dhar, it releases in cinemas on December 2.

Also Read: Dhurandhar music launch: Ranveer Singh sets the stage on FIRE; sings ‘Ghafoor’, lifted in the air by Kings United dancers

Hrithik Roshan and Rakesh Roshan boost their off-screen empire with Rs. 10.9 crores property buy in Mumbai

Bollywood’s iconic father–son team, Rakesh Roshan and Hrithik Roshan, have made a noteworthy addition to their growing business footprint. Their company, HRX Digitech LLP, has acquired four commercial units worth Rs.10.90 crores in Andheri West, Mumbai. The deals were registered in November 2025, as per documents reviewed by Square Yards through the Inspector General of Registration (IGR).

The units are located in Yura Business Park Phase 2, a commercial hub in one of Mumbai’s busiest entertainment-linked neighbourhoods. Andheri West remains a magnet for production houses, media studios, and creative agencies — sectors that align closely with the Roshans’ long-established presence in the film industry. With excellent connectivity via the Western Express Highway, Link Road, and the metro and railway networks, the area continues to attract major celebrity and corporate investments.

According to the documents, the first of the newly purchased commercial spaces is valued at Rs. 3.42 crores and spans a RERA carpet area of 79.15 sq. m. (roughly 852 sq. ft.), along with two car parking slots. Another unit, bought for Rs. 2.19 crores, offers a carpet area of 50.63 sq. m. (around 545 sq. ft.) and comes with one parking space. The purchases also reflect the requisite stamp duty and registration payments made for each transaction, including Rs. 20.54 lakh and Rs.13.14 lakh respectively for these two units, with Rs. 30,000 paid as registration charges on each.

The third acquisition, worth Rs. 3.39 crores, includes a carpet area of 78.50 sq. m. (around 845 sq. ft.) and one parking spot, accompanied by a stamp duty of Rs. 20.37 lakh and registration fees of Rs. 30,000. Meanwhile, the fourth commercial space is priced at Rs.1.90 crore and spans 43.94 sq. m. (approximately 473 sq. ft.), with one allocated parking slot. For this transaction, HRX Digitech LLP paid Rs.11.40 lakh as stamp duty and Rs.30,000 towards registration.

Rakesh Roshan, celebrated for directing hits like Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai and the Krrish franchise has maintained a strong entrepreneurial streak throughout his career. Hrithik Roshan, one of Hindi cinema’s most acclaimed and versatile actors with films like Jodhaa Akbar, War, and Krrish to his credit, has similarly expanded his interests beyond the screen.

Together, they helm HRX Digitech LLP — a media-tech and investment-focused venture that represents their vision for modern, digital-led businesses. The latest round of acquisitions highlights the duo’s continued commitment to diversifying into high-value commercial assets, further strengthening the Roshan family’s presence both within and outside the world of entertainment.

Also Read: Hrithik Roshan invests Rs 28 crores in Pecan realty’s premium yura offices in Juhu

EXCLUSIVE: Shabana Azmi joins the cast of Awarapan 2; to be seen in a pivotal role in the Emraan Hashmi-starrer

Awarapan 2 is surely one of the highly awaited films of 2026, thanks to the craze and popularity of the first part. Moreover, lead actor Emraan Hashmi’s star power got a boost recently with a cameo in The Ba***ds Of Bollywood. And now, the excitement for Awarapan 2 has gone many notches higher as Bollywood Hungama has learned that none other than Shabana Azmi has joined the star cast.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Shabana Azmi has come on board for Awarapan 2. The role is apt for her and she was more than happy to bag the coveted part. It’s an interesting and powerful creative decision by producer Vishesh Bhatt that significantly intensifies the film’s emotional core and conflict. Interestingly, this marks Shabana Azmi’s first-ever collaboration with Vishesh Films.”

The source also said, “Also, Awarapan 2 marks her first on-screen pairing with Emraan Hashmi, creating a new and formidable dramatic tension audiences have never seen before. Moreover, the casting is in sync with the trademark Bhatt storytelling ethos — anchored in strong performances, morally complex characters, and emotionally charged drama.”

However, not much is known about Shabana Azmi’s character at this point. The source said, “All the details remain tightly under wraps. The makers are expected to officially reveal it in a few weeks. Nevertheless, with Shabana ji’s entry, Awarapan 2 now boasts of a unique star combination — Emraan Hashmi, Shabana Azmi and Disha Patani — with more cast additions also expected to surprise audiences.”

Awarapan 2 is directed by Nitin Kakkar of Filmistaan (2014) fame. The film had a long schedule in Bangkok, Thailand and as per reports, the makers plan to wrap up the shoot by January 2026. The film is on track for its release on April 3, 2026.

With Shabana Azmi coming on board, Awarapan 2 is no longer just a much-awaited sequel; it is now positioned as a prestige thriller that blends scale with soul and solid performances.

Also Read: Emraan Hashmi and Disha Patani to wrap action and song scenes in 40-day Bangkok schedule for Awarapan 2: Report

EXCLUSIVE: Siddhant Chaturvedi on leading the biopic of legendary filmmaker V Shantaram, “It’s a great responsibility and an honour”

Indian cinema witnesses a defining announcement today as Siddhant Chaturvedi reveals the first look poster of his most challenging and ambitious role yet — legendary filmmaker V. Shantaram — in the upcoming biographical drama titled V. Shantaram. Bollywood Hungama was the first one to share the news last month about Siddhant playing the character of the legendary filmmaker in the film.

The newly released poster presents Siddhant in a striking, era-specific look that mirrors the intensity, vision and creative rebellion associated with V. Shantaram. From the posture to the gaze to the fierce creative energy, Siddhant has absorbed Shantaram’s aura so completely that the line between actor and icon feels almost blurred.

The transformation marks a major milestone in Siddhant’s career as he steps into the life of a filmmaker, who shaped the language of Indian cinema across decades.

Speaking about taking on the role, Siddhant Chaturvedi said in an exclusive quote: “It’s a great responsibility and an honour to be stepping into the shoes of an iconic filmmaker who revolutionised Indian cinema for generations to come.”

V. Shantaram traces the extraordinary journey of the auteur — from the silent-film era to the evolution of sound and colour — highlighting his pioneering storytelling, fearless innovation and enduring cultural impact.

The film is written and directed by Abhijeet Shirish Deshpande, and presented by Rajkamal Enterttainment, Camera Take Films and Roaring Rivers Productions. It is produced by Rahul Kiran Shantaram, Subhash Kale and Sarita Ashwin Varde.

With this announcement and poster reveal, Siddhant Chaturvedi signals a powerful turn in his trajectory as he brings to life one of Indian cinema’s most influential visionaries.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Tamannaah Bhatia signs Siddhant Chaturvedi-starrer Chitrapati V Shantaram

EXCLUSIVE: Karan Johar recovers Rs. 90 cr. even before the release of Kartik Aaryan’s Rs. 170 cr. rom-com

The Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday starrer Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri is among the most-awaited films of 2025. The rom-com is set for a Christmas 2025 release, and has already sparked excitement among the cine-goers with the fresh teaser and a hit song. As reported by Bollywood Hungama a year back, Kartik Aaryan is drawing a mammoth pay cheque for the film, amounting to Rs. 40 crores.

And now, we have some exciting news for all the Kartik Aaryan fans. According to very reliable sources close to Bollywood Hungama, Karan Johar is placing all his bets on Kartik Aaryan, as Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri is among the most expensive rom-coms of Dharma Productions, and the confidence has come from the track record of Kartik Aaryan delivering big at the box office with the Bhool Bhulaiyaa franchise. "Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri is mounted on a huge budget of Rs. 150 crores, in addition to Rs. 20 crores allotted for print and publicity. The film is the second most expensive rom-com of the modern era after the Ranbir Kapoor led Tu Jhoothi Main Makkar."

The source also tells us that out of the Rs. 170 crore investment, Karan Johar has already recovered Rs. 90 crores from the sale of satellite, digital and music rights, leaving Rs. 80 crores to be recovered from theatrical. "He is placing big bets on the theatrical business. The entire team of the film, including Kartik Aaryan and Karan Johar, are confident that Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri will hit the Rs. 200 crore mark at the box office, and make profits for the producers. The film has shaped up very well, and after a blockbuster in the form of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, this is expected to be another entry of Kartik in the coveted club."

For Karan too, Kartik is confident up to give the biggest grosser to Dharma Productions by surpassing Akshay Kumar's Good Newwz, and all the math on the budget front is also done keeping his star-power and audience pull in mind.

Also Read: SCOOP: Kartik Aaryan and Karan Johar team up for third mega project; actor emerges as Dharma Productions’ Gen-Z poster boy