Tamannaah Bhatia raises voice against Kolkata Rape Case; calls India’s Independence ‘incomplete’ without the safety of women

Last week, India woke up another spine-chilling case of rape and murder of a young medical trainee in Kolkata that has sparked a nationwide outrage with doctors going on strike. Since the incident happened around August 15, many celebrities questioned the freedom and safety of women as the country celebrated another year of independence. Among them is Tamannaah Bhatia who has pointed out that such occasions are ‘incomplete’ without appropriate measures being taken to safeguard women.

Tamanaah Bhatia urges women to strive for ‘real Independence’

Joining the list of celebrities who have shared heart wrenching notes comparing the incident to several other heinous crimes against women that have been reported in the past is Tamannaah Bhatia. The actress shared a note on Friday wherein she said, “Yesterday, India completed 78 years of Independence. We commemorated bravery and sacrifice of our freedom fighters. However at the same time we were reminded yet again, that our independence is incomplete without the freedom and safety of our women. The heinous crime committed in Kolkata last week, and countless others that continue to happen every day, are constant reminders of how women continue to face violence, harassment & discrimination, our voices silenced and our rights denied.”

She continued, “We are past the time of realisations, we have to go beyond conversations, discussions and bring actionable change. Tomorrow is too late, JUSTICE needs to be served. It's high time that we look for the right solutions and ensure that we are teaching our children, especially the boys, the true value of a woman. Every woman's heart is bleeding, let's strive for real independence.”

 

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About Tamannaah Bhatia’s recent projects

Tamannaah Bhatia recently featured in a special cameo in two Independence Day releases – in Vedaa as the deceased wife of John Abraham and in Stree 2 as Shama for the special dance number ‘Aaj Ki Raat’. The actress is currently prepping for the supernatural film Odela 2 alongside a host of ensemble cast that is expected to release later this year. Meanwhile, she is also expected to be busy with the work on a web-series titled Daring Partners.

Also Read: Hrithik Roshan, Priyanka Chopra, Genelia Deshmukh and other Bollywood stars express outrage over Kolkata rape-murder case

Vijay Raaz fired from Son of Sardaar 2 after alleged unprofessional behaviour, says Kumar Mangat Pathak

Pinkvilla exclusively reported earlier this week that Ajay Devgn and his team had assembled a large star-studded cast for the comedy caper Son of Sardaar 2, which has begun production in London. We informed our readers that Ravi Kishan, Mrunal Thakur, Vijay Raaz, Chunkey Pandey, Vindu Dara Singh, Deepak Dobriyal, Mukul Dev, Ashwini Kalsekar, Kubbra Sait, and Sanjay Dutt will play key roles in the film. And now, in a startling turn of events, we have exclusively learned from the sets that the producers have decided to take a drastic step by pulling Vijay Raaz from the movie.

According to insiders close to the project, Vijay Raaz has allegedly been harsh with the producers and crew of Son of Sardaar 2 on the set. We asked Kumar Mangat Pathak, who co-produced Son of Sardaar 2 with Ajay Devgn, for a reaction. The filmmaker said, “Yes, it’s true that we have removed Vijay Raaz from the film because of his behaviour on the sets. He demanded for bigger rooms, vanity van and also overcharged us for the spot boys. In-fact, his spot boy was paid Rs.20,000 per night which is more than any big actor. UK is an expensive place, and everyone got standard rooms during the shoot, but he demanded premium suites. When we tried explaining the costing scenario to him, he refused to understand, and spoke rudely. His constant response was, ‘Aap Logo Ne Mujhe Approach Kiya, Main Kaunsa Saamne Se Aya Kaam Mangne’. While we tried to accommodate all his demands, the behaviour kept getting worse, as his demands never ended. He started to demand two cars for a 3 person staff to travel for as well. How can we do that? When the EP said no, he was rude with the EP (Executive Producer). After all the discussions, we decided to remove him from the film.”

Vijay Raaz had a different story to tell. He told Pinkvilla, “I reached the location before time for trial. I reached the van, and Ravi Kishan came to meet me. The EP, Ashish, and the producer Kumar Mangat came to meet me, followed by director Vijay Arora. I stepped out of the van, and spotted Ajay Devgn standing around 25 metres away. I didn’t go to greet him as he was busy, and I continued to speak to my friends around. 25 minutes later, Mr. Kumar Mangat came to me 0061nd said, ‘Aap Film Se Nikal Jaaye, Hum Aapko Nikal Rahe Hai’. The only misconduct from my end is, I didn’t greet Mr. Ajay Devgn. I didn’t even meet the crew, and these are the only people I interacted with. I was removed from the film 30 minutes of reaching the sets, as I didn’t greet Ajay Devgn. These are powerful people, and the chatter of misconduct doesn’t arise at all.”

According to Kumar Mangat Pathak, the problems began in Mumbai when Vijay Raaz signed on for the project. Mangat said, “Ajay Devgn isn’t someone who is waiting to be greeted by people. He always likes to be surrounded by creative people and treats everyone with respect. The story of him being removed for not greeting Ajay Devgn is false. We suffered a loss of at-least two crore for removing Vijay Raaz from the film and we would not take such a step for small matters. His behaviour was a major area of concern and there is no place for disrespect on the sets of our film, as we work like a family. He constantly told all our EP’s and even me that he isn’t in need of doing Son of Sardaar 2, and he is doing it only because we approached him.  He kept demanding bigger room, despite knowing that the rooms cost a bomb in UK. He refused to co-operate. The attitude is a problem and even we didn’t want to associate with a person having such mentality.”

Also Read : Kartam Bhugtam trailer out: Shreyas Talpade-Vijay Raaz starrer promises to be an edgy psychological thriller, watch

Prabhas starrer Kalki 2898 AD to stream on both Amazon Prime Video and Netflix from August 22

Produced by Priyanka Dutt, C. Aswani Dutt, and Swapna Dutt under the banner of Vyjayanthi Movies and directed by Nag Ashwin, Kalki 2989 AD features Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Deepika Padukone, and Disha Patani in leading roles.

The film will be available for Prime members in India and over 240 countries and territories in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam, with English subtitles, on August 22.

Prime Video has announced the Telugu action-adventure Kalki 2989 AD will premiere globally on August 22, 2024. After a successful theatrical run, it will be available for streaming in its original Telugu, with dubs in Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam, and English subtitles, for Prime members in India and over 240 countries and territories.

 

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Whereas, Kalki 2989 AD - Hindi will stream globally on Netflix on August 22, 2024. Directed by Nag Ashwin and produced by Priyanka Dutt, C. Aswani Dutt, and Swapna Dutt under Vyjayanthi Movies, the film features Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Deepika Padukone, and Disha Patani.

 

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Kalki 2989 AD has captivated audiences with its portrayal of a post-apocalyptic future. The film's and its depiction of a dystopian world have resonated with viewers, contributing to its success at the box office,” said Manish Menghani, Director – Content Licensing, Prime Video India.

Applauded for his powerful performance as Bhairava, a bounty hunter, Prabhas shared, "Working on Kalki 2989 AD with a visionary director like Naga and an exceptional cast has been truly exhilarating. The film not only pushes the boundaries of storytelling with its blend of mythology and futuristic elements but also delves deep into the complexities of human nature. Portraying Bhairava, a character driven by strength and conviction, has been incredibly rewarding. After all the love that Kalki 2989 AD has received from audiences in theaters, I cannot wait for its global premiere on Prime Video. I hope viewers will enjoy watching it as much as we enjoyed making it."

Sharing his thoughts on the global streaming premiere C. Ashwani Dutt, producer of Kalki 2989 AD said, “Following a triumphant box office run and an overwhelming response from audiences of all ages, Vyjayanthi Movies couldn't have asked for a more special way to celebrate its 50th year. Kalki 2989 AD will be streaming on Prime Video for a worldwide audience in its original language Telugu and with dubs in Tamil, Kannada and Malayalam. We are thrilled for viewers to experience the Kalki universe, with its impactful performances and a narrative that is both visually stunning and deeply gripping, leaving the audience eager for more.”

Director Nag Ashwin said, “With Kalki 2989 AD I was keen to create a cinematic experience that breaks new ground, transcends traditional boundaries, and shares our cultural mythology on a global scale. The overwhelming success of the film at box offices worldwide is truly humbling. It signifies the universal appeal of films that are deeply rooted in Indian mythology. While it has received immense love in theaters, I am thrilled for Kalki 2989 AD to now stream on Prime Video, reaching an even larger audience worldwide.”

Kamal Haasan, portraying Supreme Yaskin in Kalki 2989 AD, reflects, “Being part of this grand cinematic endeavor has been both memorable and humbling. The film represents a significant leap forward for Indian cinema. It's been a privilege to contribute to such an ambitious project, and I look forward to its streaming premiere on Prime Video, where it can captivate new audiences worldwide.”

Also Read : Kalki 2898 AD to premiere on Amazon Prime Video and Netflix on August 23: Reports

Devoleena Bhattacharjee announces first pregnancy, shares pictures from Panchamrit ceremony

Television actress Devoleena Bhattacharjee is embracing motherhood as she announced her pregnancy on Thursday, August 15. The Saath Nibhaana Saathiya fame shared the joyous news with her fans through a series of Instagram pictures from her Panchamrit ceremony.

A New Chapter Begins In the pictures, Devoleena looked radiant as she flaunted her baby bump in a green saree. The actress also shared a glimpse of the baby's onesie with the caption "You can stop asking now," confirming the pregnancy speculations.

The actress expressed her excitement and gratitude in the caption, stating, "Celebrating the divine journey to motherhood with the sacred Panchamrit ritual, where tradition and love blend to bless the mother and her unborn child with health, prosperity, and joy during this beautiful chapter of life.”

 

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Overcoming Speculations The pregnancy announcement comes after months of speculation and rumors about Devoleena's expected motherhood. The actress had previously addressed the curiosity surrounding her personal life via Instagram Stories. She wrote, “Many people have been messaging me for a long time regarding my pregnancy, creating news about it. I am sure that whenever I feel like sharing such news with you all, I will do it myself. For now, please do not bother me.”

Devoleena tied the knot with Shanawaz Shaikh, her gym trainer, in December 2022. The couple has been enjoying their marital bliss and is now eagerly awaiting the arrival of their first child.

Also Read: Devoleena Bhattacharjee slams Payal Malik over the latter comparing ‘polygamy with interfaith marriage’; actress says, “It’s every Indian’s right to stand against such an illegal act like polygamy”

Kriti Sanon questions a women’s freedom in the country on India’s Independence Day in this heartfelt note

This year, India woke up to a series of heart wrenching notes on August 15, as several people including many celebrities questioned the safety of women in the country. The Kolkata rape and murder case has sparked a nationwide revolution with people taking to the streets and demanding justice for the victim as well as for all the women in the country. While some celebs shared Independence Day wishes, many of them like Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Ayushmann Khurrana questioned the workplace safety of women and joining them is also Kriti Sanon.

Kriti Sanon pens a note questioning women’s safety and security in the country

The Crew actress took to social media to share a heartfelt note on Thursday evening wherein she expressed pride over the several developments in the country but also questioned why women don’t feel safe and secure in their own country. She captioned the post explaining why she did not feel like wishing her followers on this occasion as she said, “Heavy heart and angry soul ?? Aaj wish karne ka mann nahi kiya (I did not feel like wishing today)..”

The note, which featured the background of the Tiranga (Tricolor of the Indian National Flag) read, “While we celebrate our 78th year of Independence and feel proud on how far we've come as a country globally.. it breaks my heart to see the terrifying reality that women are still not Safe in their own country. There is absolutely no fear in the people who commit these inhumane acts. And even today, its the woman being blamed for being a victim!!!”

The note further stated, “Unless there is faster justice, severe punishments and more importantly better upbringing, nothing is gonna change. Are we really FREE when our basic safety is in question??”

 

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What is the Kolkata rape and murder case?

A medical trainee was allegedly raped and murdered in the seminar hall of the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9. While the Kolkata police took over the investigation after the body was found lying in the hall the next morning, their investigation has not progressed satisfactorily. It has now led to the CBI taking over the case. Meanwhile, doctors in Kolkata have questioned their safety and have taken to the streets to protest against the lackadaisical attitude of the college authorities. In the recent development, the doctors have announced a 24-hour strike as a part of this protest.

About Kriti Sanon

The actress has been on a career high this year with the successes of Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya and Crew. Now, she is looking forward to the release of the thriller drama Do Patti which also stars Kajol as the parallel lead. This Netflix film will also mark her debut as a producer.

Also Read: Kriti Sanon BREAKS SILENCE on Adipurush debacle for FIRST TIME: “You feel a deep sadness and might even…”

Sushant Singh Rajput case: Mumbai court acquits Australian national in drug probe

A Mumbai court has discharged Australian national Paul Bartels from a drug case linked to the death of actor Sushant Singh Rajput. The decision comes as a significant development in the ongoing investigations surrounding the high-profile case.

Insufficient Evidence Leads to Acquittal As per a report by PTI, Bartels, a friend of Agisilaos Demetriades, was arrested by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in November 2020 as part of its probe into alleged drug use within Bollywood. However, after a thorough examination of the case, Special Judge Mahesh Jadhav found insufficient evidence to link Bartels to the drug-related offenses.

The court's order, released recently, highlighted the fact that the primary basis for Bartels' arrest was the statements of co-accused individuals, which are not considered admissible evidence unless corroborated by independent material. Since no such evidence was presented, the court concluded that there were no grounds to proceed with the case against Bartels. Ongoing Investigations It is important to note that this development does not impact the overall investigation into the death of Sushant Singh Rajput. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) continues to probe the circumstances surrounding the actor's demise, which was initially reported as suicide.

The drug angle of the case, which gained significant media attention, has seen several arrests and developments. For the unversed, SSR was found hanging in his apartment in Bandra on June 14, 2020. The CBI is probing the case of his alleged suicide.

Also Read: Adah Sharma opens up on staying in Sushant Singh Rajput’s flat: “I took that flat on rent. Rs. 378 crores earned by The Kerala Story are not mine”

Stree 2’s mid-night shows added in Mumbai, Thane, Pune and Delhi

The horror-comedy sequel, Stree 2, has taken the box office by storm, with its release on Independence Day. The film, starring Shraddha Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao, has not only opened to a phenomenal response but has also shattered a long-standing box office record.

Midnight Madness Pays Off In an unprecedented move, additional midnight shows for Stree 2 were added in major cities like Mumbai, Thane, Pune, and Delhi just a day after its release. The response to these shows has been nothing short of electric, contributing significantly to the film's overall opening-day collection.

According to early estimates, Stree 2 has raked in a staggering Rs. 42 to 44 crores on its first day. When combined with the paid previews that garnered Rs. 8.50 crore, the film's total opening day collection stands at a monumental Rs. 52.50 crores. Breaking Records This achievement is particularly noteworthy as it surpasses the previous record held by Shah Rukh Khan's Chennai Express. The 2013 blockbuster had created waves by conducting paid preview shows a day before its official release, amassing Rs. 6.75 crores. Stree 2 has not only eclipsed this record but has done so by a considerable margin.

The film's success can be attributed to several factors, including strong word-of-mouth, a loyal fan base, and the effective marketing campaign. Additionally, the decision to introduce midnight shows has proven to be a masterstroke, as it capitalised on the audience's enthusiasm for the film.

With its impressive opening, Stree 2 has positioned itself as one of the biggest hits of the year. The film's box office journey is sure to be closely watched by industry insiders and fans alike.

Also Read: Stree 2 Box Office: Rajkummar Rao – Shraddha Kapoor starrer has record breaking paid previews night, goes past even Chennai Express to emerge as the biggest ever

Alia Bhatt shares powerful note on prioritizing women's safety in the workplace

The Kolkata rape case of a medical trainee has left the country question workspace safety measures for women, especially for the ones who are required to do late night shifts as a part of their jobs. As many celebrities have taken a stand for the victim and are batting for the improvement of safety measures for women, Alia Bhatt has shared a series of notes wherein she has not only taken a firm stand against rape but has shared data research on the increasing cases of sexual assault in the country.

In the first note she shared on social media, Alia Bhatt said, “Another brutal rape. Another day of realisation that women are not safe, anywhere. Another horrific atrocity to remind us that it's been over a decade since the Nirbhaya tragedy, but still nothing much has changed.” The second note spoke about the statistics and it read, “Let the statistics speak: 30% of India's doctors and 80% of our nursing staff are women. In an environment of growing violence against medical personnel, it's the women who are more vulnerable. Since 2022, there has been a 4% increase in crimes against women, over 20% of which involve rape and assault. Nearly 90 rapes a day were reported in India in 2022. Sources include the National Crime Records Bureau report 2022”.

She further went on to question the safety of women and asked, “How are all of us as women supposed to feel? How are we supposed to go to work or go about our daily lives with this playing on our minds. This horrific incident has once again reminded us that women disproportionately bear the weight of ensuring their own safety.”  “Despite the many crimes and all the women who have suffered, there is no real recourse or hope that things will change. We could not save this young woman, but we can try to prevent it from happening again. My request to the powers that be... - FOCUS on the safety of women. FOCUS on creating safe spaces and increase all avenues of protection. FOCUS on the why. The writing is on the wall, that there is something fundamentally wrong with the way our society currently functions. These repeated inhuman acts towards women prove that there is something wrong at a root level and unless we dig deep and uproot the cause, nothing is going to change!” she added.

She signed off with a concluding statement, “Don't tell women to change their path - change the terrain. Every woman deserves better.” Many of her fans and even industry insiders showcased support to the actress as well as expressed their concerns over the incident.

 

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For the unversed, a second-year medical trainee in Kolkata who decided to take a nap to rest before she gets on with her shift, was found raped and murdered in her workspace and the case continues to be under investigation. This incident sparked a nationwide outrage with many doctors coming on streets to protest this crime and demanding strict action against the criminals, whereas many across the country have raised questions regarding the safety measures given to women at their workspace.

Also Read: Vikram Bhatt on never working with Alia Bhatt: “Our relationship is exclusive and doesn’t involve….”

BREAKING: Akshay Kumar has a rocking cameo in Stree 2

The much awaited Stree 2 had paid previews from August 14 and has opened to a thunderous response. The word of mouth is unanimously positive and the combination of humour and horror has got thumbs up. At the same time, the film also has some surprises. One of the surprise is that Akshay Kumar has a rocking special appearance.

Without giving out any more details, we can say that Akshay Kumar’s scene is one of the highlights of the film and would be loved by the audience. It is written brilliantly by Niren Bhatt and executed deftly by director Amar Kaushik.

This also means that Akshay Kumar would have two releases this Independence Day. He also plays the lead role in Khel Khel Mein.

Interestingly, two more actors feature in more than one release this Independence Day. Tamannaah Bhatia has lovely special appearance in both Stree 2 as well as Vedaa. As for Abhishek Banerjee, he will be seen as the antagonist in Vedaa while in Stree 2, he plays the funny sidekick.

Stree 2 stars Rajkummar Rao, Shraddha Kapoor, Pankaj Tripathi, Aparshakti Khurana and Abhishek Banerjee in principal roles. It is a sequel to Stree (2018) and is also a part of Maffock Horror Comedy Universe. The other films of this cinematic universe are Bhediya (2022) and Munjya (2024). Varun Dhawan is the lead in Bhediya and its common knowledge by now that he also features in Stree 2.

Also Read: Akshay Kumar starrer Sky Force release postponed; promo not attached to Stree 2

YesMadam signs Shraddha Kapoor as brand ambassador after Shark Tank funding

The Bootstrapped startup, YesMadam has onboarded leading Bollywood actress Shraddha Kapoor as its brand ambassador, featuring her in the latest campaign ‘Har Expert Salon Expert Nahi Hota’. This partnership aims to redefine the at-home beauty and spa service experience while leaving a mark as the industry's revolutionary Beauty and Salon Experts.

As Shraddha Kapoor has become the face of its latest campaign, “Har Expert, Salon Expert Nhi Hota”, the brand showcases its commitment to delivering exceptional and super professional at-home beauty and spa experiences with 100% hygienic services, genuine and top-quality products, transparent and affordable prices, the option to use your own products and expert services.

Commenting on the association, Mayank Arya, the Co-founder and CEO of YesMadam, said,   “Partnering with Shraddha Kapoor is a game-changer for YesMadam. Her aura and the perfect blend of elegance and approachability perfectly and seamlessly align with our brand values. Through our ‘Har Expert, Salon Expert Nahi Hota’ campaign, we aim to showcase how YesMadam brings truly professional and reliable salon services to every home. This collaboration will significantly boost our mission to revolutionize the at-home beauty experience across India.”

Akanksha Vishnoi, Founder and Chief Marketing Officer, added, “Collaborating with Shraddha Kapoor is a strategic move for YesMadam. Her influence will help us connect with a broader audience and strengthen our commitment to accessible, high-quality beauty services. We are also dedicated to empowering our service partners across various locations, providing them with financial stability and growth opportunities, which in turn creates a positive impact on society, and this collaboration will surely support us in actualizing the dreams of our wonderful service partners.”

 

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The captivating campaign video features Shraddha in a humorous situation, highlighting the importance of choosing the right salon expert. This hyper-strategic partnership aims to boost YesMadam’s reach, and visibility while expanding its user base and tapping into a vast set of cohort demographics that enables exponential business growth, above and beyond. While the brand currently garners an Annual Recurring Revenue of 100 crores, this initiative will proactively enhance brand positioning while scaling organic reach and shareability, aligning perfectly with YesMadam’s mission to make premium beauty and spa services accessible nationwide.

A recent viral video on Twitter, showing two men arguing on the Delhi NCR metro with one shouting “Har Expert, Salon Expert Nahi Hota”, sparked widespread curiosity and conversation across the region while catching the eyeballs of the masses. But there is more to reveal, in a surprising twist, this viral sensation has been revealed as a part of a genius marketing campaign by YesMadam, India’s leading tech-enabled salon-at-home service provider.

Also Read: Stree 2 Box Office: The horror-comedy is set to be Shraddha Kapoor’s highest opening day grosser

Telugu star Sree Vishnu to be paired with Divya Khossla in Hero Heeroine

Versatile veteran director Suresh Krissna’s Hero Heeroine just got bigger. The project has got its leading man.

And it is none other than Sree Vishnu, the rising star of Telugu cinema who has been part of blockbusters like Prema Ishq Kaadhal, Second Hand, Brochevarevarura and Samajavaragamana. These established him as a sought-after name in Telugu cinema.

Om Bheem Bush, Sree Vishnu’s latest hit, prompted producer Prerna Arona to pin down this rising star to star opposite Divya Khossla in Hero Heeroine. Suresh Krissna, who has directed super-stalwarts like Kamal Haasan (in Aalavandhan) and Rajinikanth (in Baba), zeroed in on Sree Vishnu without a second thought.

Informed a source close to the development, “For both director Suresh Krissna and producer Prerna Arora, choosing Sree Vishnu was a no-brainer. He is the perfect fit for the male lead opposite Divya Khossla. Although Vishnu is a very busy actor in Telugu cinema, he said yes to Hero Heeroine without a second thought.”

Also Read: Hero Heeroine producer Prerna Arora to join forces with Oscar-winning composed MM Keeravani? Here’s what we know!

EXCLUSIVE: CBFC replaces Amitabh Bachchan-Rekha's poster with Amitabh Bachchan-Jaya Bachchan's poster in Ravi Teja's Mr Bachchan

This Independence Day is going to be like a bonanza for film lovers as films of different genres and languages will be released in cinemas. In Hindi, there will be a three-way clash between Stree 2, Vedaa and Khel Khel Mein. In Telugu, two big films are going to release on August 15 – Ravi Teja-starrer Mr Bachchan and Ram Pothineni-Sanjay Dutt starrer Double iSmart. In this article, Bollywood Hungama will focus on the cuts given to Mr Bachchan by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).

The CBFC passed the film with a U/A certificate. However, it asked for several modifications. To begin with, a disclaimer was added in the beginning that the film is fictional and doesn’t bear resemblance to any person or place. Then, a 2-minute-plus scene of a young child smoking a beedi was censored. The beedi was replaced with a pencil. A 1-second shot of blood on the floor was removed. Then, in four places, certain words and abuses were muted or replaced.

Lastly, the makers displayed a poster of Amitabh Bachchan and Rekha during the rolling titles for the entire duration. As per the CBFC’s directive, this poster was removed and replaced with a poster of Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan.

Once these changes were made, the CBFC passed the film on August 13, that is, two days before its release. The length of the film, as mentioned on the censor certificate, is 158 minutes. In other words, the run time of Mr Bachchan is 2 hours and 38 minutes.

Mr Bachchan is the official remake of the Ajay Devgn-starrer Raid (2018). While Ravi Teja plays the protagonist, Jagapathi Babu essays the role of the antagonist. Bhagyashri Borse, last seen in the Kartik Aaryan-starrer Chandu Champion as Nayantara, is the female lead. Mr Bachchan is directed by Harish Shankar.

Also Read: Mr. Bachchan takes on a massy route as Ravi Teja turns income tax officer and flaunts his quintessential hero style

Shabana Azmi felicitated with Honorary Doctorate: “Art can be used as an instrument for social change”

Actress Shabana Azmi has added another prestigious accolade to her illustrious career. The versatile performer was bestowed with an honorary doctorate by Techno India University in Kolkata. Sharing her joy on social media, Azmi expressed her gratitude for the recognition, particularly given the esteemed company of fellow honorees, including the President of India Droupadi Murmu, Jogen Choudhry, Leander Paes, and Shankar Mahadevan.

The ceremony, a celebration of excellence, witnessed four extraordinary individuals being honoured for their significant contributions to their respective fields. Shabana Azmi has been a trailblazer in the Indian film industry. Her portrayal of complex characters and her ability to evoke a wide range of emotions have earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan following.

Shabana Azmi stated, “I am very honoured to get the honourary D.Litt from Techno India University because the stature of the other recipients was so high, my attempts of being so modest that I don’t think I deserved this honour. But I do believe, now that I have got it, it also places a responsibility on me. I think art can be used as an instrument for social change and that is what I have tried to do in my own little way.”

 

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Shankar Mahadevan, the celebrated musician, shared his excitement about sharing the stage with Azmi and other distinguished recipients. He emphasized that the honour was made even more special by the company he kept.

Looking ahead, Shabana Azmi is gearing up for the release of Bun Tikki, a film directed by Faraz Arif Ansari and produced by Jio Studios and Manish Malhotra's Stage 5 Production. The film also stars Abhay Deol and Zeenat Aman. ALSO READ: Shabana Azmi, SS Rajamouli, Ritesh Sidhwani among others welcomed by The Academy Class of 2024

Rajkummar Rao to play a gangster in Bhakshak director Pulkit’s next; script workshops & readings begin in September 2024: Report

Bollywood actor Rajkummar Rao is all set to venture into uncharted territory with his upcoming film, directed by Pulkit, known for his critically acclaimed film Bhakshak. This project, produced by Jay Shewakramani, who has previously delivered Jawaani Jaaneman, Freddy, Malang, and Race 2, is generating buzz as it marks Rajkummar Rao’s foray into the action genre. This collaboration will also see Rao sharing the screen with Manushi Chhillar, for the first time.

As per a report in Pinkvilla, the film is set to go on floors in September 2024, with a theatrical release planned for mid-2025. This new venture promises to be a commercial entertainer, showcasing Rajkummar in a role that fans haven’t seen before—a larger-than-life gangster rooted in the heartland of India.

According to sources close to the production, Rajkummar Rao will be portraying a gangster in this film. “It’s an out-and-out commercial entertainer featuring Rajkummar Rao as a gangster. The makers plan to shoot the film extensively in Uttar Pradesh followed by some chunk in Mumbai, as the entire story and character is rooted in UP. Rajkummar is excited to explore this character and will be doing some readings and workshops with the team in the first week of September,” revealed a source close to the development.

Rajkummar’s preparation for this role will involve an intense period of readings and workshops to fully immerse himself in the character. The film’s narrative, set against the backdrop of Uttar Pradesh, promises to explore the gritty and intense world of a gangster, a role that Rajkummar has never explored before.

The film’s shoot is scheduled to kick off in September 2024, with a tight two-month shooting schedule. The makers are planning a theatrical release in mid-2025. “The storytelling has a very commercial palette and will feature Rajkummar in a rather larger-than-life avatar,” the source added.

Meanwhile, Rajkummar Rao has a busy schedule ahead. He is currently gearing up for the release of Stree 2, directed by Amar Kaushik, which is slated to hit the screens on Independence Day. Following that, he will be seen in the Raaj Shaandilyaa-directed Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video, which is set for a Dussehra release. ALSO READ: Rajkummar Rao to join hands with Manushi Chhillar for the first time: Report

Shah Rukh Khan announces he acquired Devdas’ rights at Locarno Film Festival 2024: “I’m very proud that it belongs to our company”

In a career spanning over three decades, Shah Rukh Khan has played numerous iconic roles. One of his roles is the portrayal of the tragic hero in Devdas. At the 77th Locarno Film Festival in Switzerland, where the Bollywood megastar was honoured with the Pardo alla Carriera award or Career Leopard, Khan took the opportunity to reflect on the film that not only tested his limits as an actor but also became a personal tribute to his late mother. The actor revealed that his production house, Red Chillies Entertainment, has acquired the rights to Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s epic 2002 film, Devdas.

Devdas, a film that has seen over 18 adaptations across various mediums, was brought to life once again in 2002 by director Sanjay Leela Bhansali, with Shah Rukh Khan stepping into the titular role. Speaking at a masterclass during the festival, Khan shared his pride in securing the rights to this landmark film. “We as a production company bought the rights of this film back, and I’m very, very proud that it belongs to our company now,” he announced.

Shah Rukh Khan delved into the challenges faced during the production, revealing the immense pressure of living up to the legacy of the earlier adaptations, especially the 1955 version starring Dilip Kumar—a film his parents, both avid fans of Kumar, adored.

Khan reminisced about the weight of expectations that accompanied his decision to take on the role. “By the time I got to see the film, I think they’d made 18 films based on the same novel, or 20, and lots of other plays and songs,” he noted. The actor was initially discouraged by peers who felt that the character of Devdas was too different from the roles that had brought him fame. “A lot of actors in Mumbai told me not to do the film. ‘This is not your zone. You are more pop culture,’” he recalled.

Khan candidly discussed the cultural context in which the film was made. “By the time Sanjay Leela Bhansali wanted to make this film, I think the general sentiment in India was that it felt outdated. The country was undergoing a cultural shift towards a more liberalized mindset, with audiences increasingly gravitating towards lighter, commercial fare like college musicals,” he shared.

The production of Devdas was an ambitious endeavor that faced significant financial and logistical challenges. “It was the most expensive film being made in India, so it went through its own share of troubles. Money issues, and producers vanishing, we had to complete the film in a few days. It went overtime, over budget,” Khan revealed.

Despite these hurdles, he found the experience fulfilling, particularly as a tribute to his mother. “I had a great time doing the film because I felt it kind of was a tribute… memory to my mother who loved the film.”

SRK recalled the immense scale of the set, saying, “We used to have 90 gen sets on the sets at one time to light up the area, and there were no generators left in the city of Mumbai because it had to be lit up so much. Very opulent, very lavish, very rich and very big and the costumes and the drama and everything of it.”

Working with co-stars like Aishwarya Rai, Madhuri Dixit, and Jackie Shroff, Khan found himself immersed in a world of complex characters and intricate emotions. Playing Devdas, a character consumed by love and loss, was a departure from Khan’s usual roles. “I was good in it. As you always wanted to play stark characters… an alcoholic and I fitted into the character,” he said. However, the role came with its own set of challenges, particularly when it came to the traditional Indian attire he had to wear. “I had never worn such an intricate Indian garb before,” Khan admitted, humorously recounting the difficulties of wearing a dhoti. “Very difficult to walk, to keep from falling many times. You had to tie it along, and you need a specialist to tie after some times when I couldn’t tie it because it kept falling off in between the shots,” he said. In a candid moment, he confessed to using a zipper as a practical solution, despite it being “blasphemous.”

“It does define a lot of Indian cinema (through) its opulence and its beauty, and it’s larger than life-ness, its theatrics. So, it is a very dialogue-oriented, very dramatic musical film that you will see. And there are some outstanding dance centerpieces, I think, some of the best that I’ve ever shot in the world,” Khan reflected.

On the work front, Shah Rukh Khan will next star in Sujoy Ghosh’s King alongside Abhishek Bachchan and Suhana Khan. ALSO READ: Shah Rukh Khan CONFIRMS his next film King with Sujoy Ghosh: “For 6-7 years I have been thinking about it”

Shah Rukh Khan, Aryan Khan reunite as Mufasa and Simba; AbRam Khan makes debut as young Mufasa in Mufasa: The Lion King Hindi trailer, watch

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan and his eldest son Aryan Khan are set to reprise their iconic roles as Mufasa and Simba, respectively, in the Hindi version of Disney's highly anticipated prequel, Mufasa: The Lion King. Adding a touch of familial magic to the project, the youngest Khan, AbRam, will make his voice-acting debut as young Mufasa. The news was officially confirmed with the release of the Hindi trailer, which sent fans into a frenzy of excitement and nostalgia. The trailer showcases the grandeur and emotional depth of the story, promising a cinematic experience that will resonate with audiences of all ages.

Shah Rukh Khan's powerful voice and commanding presence as Mufasa in the 2019 Hindi dubbed version of The Lion King captured the hearts of millions. His portrayal of the wise and benevolent king was widely acclaimed, making him an unforgettable part of the film's legacy. With Aryan Khan stepping into the role of the young Simba, the father-son duo created an on-screen chemistry that mirrored the heartwarming bond between the characters.

Now, as the prequel delves deeper into Mufasa's story, AbRam Khan's innocent voice brings a fresh and endearing dimension to the character. His portrayal of the young lion cub is sure to melt hearts and create a new generation of fans.

Talking about the association, Shah Rukh Khan shares, “Mufasa has an incredible legacy and stands as the ultimate king of the jungle, imparting his wisdom to his son, Simba. I deeply relate to him as a father and also resonate with Mufasa’s journey in the film. Mufasa: The Lion King, depicts Mufasa’s life from childhood to his rise as an incredible king, and revisiting this character has been exceptional. It’s a special collaboration for me with Disney, particularly because my sons, Aryan and AbRam, are part of this journey and sharing this experience with them is truly meaningful."

"The ferocious Mufasa is more than just a fictional character, he embodies a spirit that continues to inspire generations, a quality Disney strives to bring with every story. When Mufasa: The Lion King was announced, we could not envision anyone other than Shah Rukh Khan and Aryan Khan returning to our family entertainer as Mufasa and Simba. Now, with AbRam joining the cast, this movie has become even more special to us. Our endeavour here is for millions of Indian audiences to enjoy this incredible story with their families!” said Bikram Duggal, Head of Studios, Disney Star.

Disney Entertainment brought the house down at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event this past weekend with a dazzling showcase of upcoming films and series. The night ended on a particularly high note with the enthralling presentation of Mufasa: The Lion King, the highly anticipated prequel exploring the origins of the beloved king of the Pride Lands. Fans were treated to a special appearance by Oscar-winning filmmaker Barry Jenkins, the film's director.

Mufasa: The Lion King honours the legacy of the original 1994 animated masterpiece, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. It also follows the visual style established in the 2019 live-action remake, which captivated audiences worldwide by grossing a staggering $1.6 billion at the global box office.

The trailer delves into the formative years of Mufasa, exploring his unlikely rise to become one of the greatest kings. In a captivating narrative, Rafiki, the wise mandrill, recounts the legend of Mufasa to Kiara, Simba and Nala's daughter, with Timon and Pumbaa offering their signature comedic relief.

The story unfolds through captivating flashbacks, introducing a young cub named Mufasa, orphaned and alone. Fate intervenes when he encounters Taka, a sympathetic lion who also happens to be the heir to a royal bloodline. This chance encounter ignites an epic journey for Mufasa and his extraordinary companions, all misfits searching for a place in the world. Their bonds will be tested as they face formidable foes and strive for their destiny.

Beyond the star-studded D23 presentation, the film boasts an even more extensive cast. John Kani, Tiffany Boone, Kagiso Lediga, Preston Nyman, Mads Mikkelsen, Thandiwe Newton, Lennie James, Keith David, Donald Glover, Blue Ivy Carter, Folake Olowofoyeku, Joanna Jones, Thuso Mbedu, Sheila Atim, Abdul Salis, Dominique Jennings, and Beyoncé Knowles-Carter all lend their voices to bring this captivating tale to life.

The film's production team is equally impressive. Adele Romanski and Mark Ceryak serve as producers, while Peter Tobyansen takes on the role of executive producer. By combining live-action techniques with cutting-edge CGI, they've crafted a visually stunning experience unlike anything seen before.

Mufasa: The Lion King roars into theaters on December 20th, 2024. Indian audiences can celebrate the film's release on the same date, with the movie available in English, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu.

ALSO READ: Mufasa: The Lion King Trailer: Aaron Pierre’s Mufasa and Kelvin Harrison Jr’s Scar go from brothers to enemies in new glimpse, watch

Rani Mukerji and Karan Johar invited to address the Australian Parliament ahead of Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2024

In a landmark moment for the Indian film industry, actress Rani Mukerji and director Karan Johar address a profound keynote representing the Indian Film Industry Australian Parliament House. This prestigious event is to take place on August 13, ahead of the 15th annual Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) which is slated to commence from August 15. The invitation extended to Rani Mukerji and Karan Johar marks a significant milestone, acknowledging the growing cultural impact of Indian cinema and its expansion in Australia.

The keynote address is set to be attended by distinguished dignitaries, Members of Parliament, and various ministers, underscoring the global impact and cultural significance of Indian cinema. This comes at a time when the festival is celebrating its milestone 15th year and also in tandem when recently a co-production treaty was signed between India and Australia furthering as a gateway into the relationship. The duo are invited to speak about the power of cinema to bring people together regardless of geographical distances , and bring cultures together.

Actress Rani Mukerji expressed her excitement, saying, “I’m proud to represent the Indian film fraternity at the Australian Parliament House and speak about the rich history of cinema that we have offered to the world at large. This is a milestone moment for our fraternity and it would be an honour for me to speak about the growing cultural ties between Australia and India through cinema. Indian cinema comprising Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Marathi, Gujarati, Punjabi, Bengali, Assamese, Odia, Hindi, and others, is right now at the forefront of shaping pop culture worldwide with our talent, our films making a mark globally. Our films bring a lot of joy to the world, our films bring a lot of colour in people’s lives. As an entertainer, I have always loved to see people going on a journey with the emotions that our cinema has to offer. I’m humbled to represent my country which is so diverse and its cinema reflective of each different culture at the Australian Parliament House . I would like to congratulate the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne for their efforts in making this landmark moment possible. IFFM continues to be a beacon of cultural exchange, showcasing the rich diversity and creativity of Indian cinema to Australia and the world.”

Director Karan Johar added, "I am deeply honored to be invited to speak at the Australian Parliament House. I am thrilled to be a part of this historic event and to celebrate the incredible journey of Indian cinema. It’s incredible to see how far the stories we as an industry create travels, and this moment is a testament to the growing influence of the cultural impact of Indian cinema. I’m grateful to the house, the members of the parliament for extending this invite and to have me represent the rich legacy of cinema and storytelling”.

Festival Director Mitu Bhowmik Lange shared her thoughts, stating, "This is a landmark year for the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne as we celebrate our 15th year. Having Rani Mukherji and Karan Johar as keynote speakers at the Australian Parliament House is a testament to the festival’s growing influence and recognition"

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne continues to be a beacon of cultural exchange, showcasing the rich diversity and creativity of Indian cinema. This year’s festival promises to be a grand celebration, with the keynote speeches and the launch of the Yash Chopra stamp marking the commencement of an unforgettable event. The festival is the largest celebration of Indian films outside of India and will take place across Melbourne between 15-25 August 2024.

Also Read: Vikrant Massey, Rasika Dugal, and Adarsh Gourav to represent young voices of Indian cinema at Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2024

Shah Rukh Khan CONFIRMS his next film King with Sujoy Ghosh: “For 6-7 years I have been thinking about it”

Shah Rukh Khan has finally confirmed his next project, the much-anticipated action film titled King. The superstar made the announcement during a recent interaction at the 77th Locarno Film Festival. The film, directed by Sujoy Ghosh, will also mark the big-screen debut of Shah Rukh's daughter, Suhana Khan. For the unversed, Shah Rukh Khan was honoured with the Pardo alla Carriera award at the Locarno Film Festival.

Shah Rukh Khan Gears Up for His Next Action Film King In a video clip that has been widely circulated online, Khan revealed, "The next film that I am doing is King. I have to start working on it, lose some weight, stretch a little so my groins don’t get caught while I am doing action.” This announcement has created a buzz among fans eagerly awaiting the release of this film. SRK’s Long-Standing Desire to Work on King SRK also shared that he has been contemplating this project for several years. Reflecting on his film choices, Khan mentioned that after wrapping up Jawan and Dunki last year, he was keen on exploring a new genre. “There’s a certain kind of film I want to do, where, maybe it is more age-centric, and I want to try something. For 6-7 years I have been thinking about it. I mentioned it to Sujoy one day and he says, ‘Sir, I have a subject.’”  

Scheduled to go on floors in November this year, King has already generated significant buzz. Apart from Shah Rukh and Suhana Khan, the film also stars Abhishek Bachchan as the antagonist and Abhay Verma in a pivotal role. With such a talented cast and crew, expectations are high for this action-packed extravaganza.

Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan on being FIRST Indian to be honored at Locarno Film Festival: “I love the coziness of this place”

Conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar gifts lavish yacht, 100 iPhone 15 Pro’s to Jacqueline Fernandez on her birthday

Alleged conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar, currently incarcerated in a Delhi jail, has gifted actress Jacqueline Fernandez a luxury yacht named 'Lady Jacqueline' on her birthday. The revelation came to light through a letter penned by Chandrashekhar to the actress, who celebrated her birthday on Sunday.

The yacht, according to Chandrashekhar, is the same one that Fernandez had selected in 2021. He assured the actress in his letter that all taxes related to the yacht had been cleared, implying its legitimacy. This extravagant gesture, however, has raised serious questions given the circumstances under which Chandrashekhar acquired his wealth.

Beyond the opulent gift, Chandrashekhar also announced a donation of Rs. 15 crore and the construction of 300 homes for the families affected by the Wayanad landslide disaster. In addition, he pledged to gift 100 iPhone 15 Pro phones to commemorate the success of the song ‘Yimmy Yimmy’ featuring Fernandez.

Chandrashekhar's criminal history is extensive. Arrested in 2015 for charges including cheating, criminal conspiracy, and violations of financial regulations, he was granted bail last month. However, multiple cases against him have kept him behind bars.

The actress herself has been embroiled in controversy due to her alleged links with Chandrashekhar. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has questioned Fernandez in connection with a money laundering case involving the conman. The ED's charge sheet alleges that Chandrashekhar used illegally acquired funds to purchase lavish gifts for Fernandez. ALSO READ: Sukesh Chandrashekhar pens letter to Jacqueline Fernandez lauding her song ‘Yimmy Yimmy’; says, “Every word, every line in the song is clearly about me and our story”

Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions looking for investors? Major corporations eye Bollywood's crown jewel including a music company

Dharma Productions is one of the premier production houses in the country and its head honcho Karan Johar is looking at making a strategic shift in the company. As per a report by Exchange4Media, the veteran filmmaker wants to sell majority stake in Dharma Productions. In order to do so, he has reached out to some of India’s biggest corporations and enterprises for investment purposes.

The Exchange4Media report further said that the potential investors are said to be top business houses based out of Mumbai, Kolkata and Ahmedabad. The article, however, doesn’t name them. Further, it also hints that one of these enterprises is a music company and is a frontrunner in this race.

As per Dharma’s financial data, the profit generated by Dharma Productions, after tax deduction, in FY 2022-23 was Rs. 27.1 crores. In FY 2023-24, it was reduced to Rs. 10.70 crores. While its total revenue was Rs. 278 crores in FY22, it was Rs. 1,044 crores in FY23. Its borrowings amounted to Rs. 82 crores in FY23, though it totalled Rs. 92 crores in FY22.

Exchange4Media had contacted Dharma Productions CEO and producer Apoorva Mehta but he was unavailable for comment.

Dharma Productions have had 4 releases this year already. Their first film of 2024 was the hijack drama Yodha, starring Sidharth Malhotra. This was followed by the sports romantic drama Mr & Mrs Mahi, starring Rajkummar Rao and Janhvi Kapoor. In July they had two releases - the violent flick Kill and the comic caper Bad Newz.

Dharma's next production will be Jigra, starring Alia Bhatt and Siddhant Chaturvedi-Triptii Dimri's intense love story, Dhadak 2. While the former releases on October 11, the latter will arrive in cinemas on November 22.

Their other release this year is Devara, which is presented by Dharma Productions. It stars Jr NTR, Saif Ali Khan and Janhvi Kapoor.

Also Read: “My biggest regret is that my father wasn’t there”: Karan Johar on Yash Johar’s absence during Dharma Productions’ peak