Zeenat Aman calls herself a “comeback queen” as recalls returning to work after embracing motherhood: “It is madly nostalgia-provoking”

Veteran actress Zeenat Aman took a nostalgic trip down memory lane on May 20, 2026, as she shared an old interview clip from the sets of her 1989 courtroom drama Gawaahi. Along with the video, the actress penned a deeply personal note reflecting on motherhood, marriage, identity and her return to films during one of the most emotionally challenging phases of her life.

Calling herself a “comeback queen,” Zeenat opened up about how Gawaahi became more than just another film in her career. The actress revealed that the project arrived at a time when she was trying to reconnect with herself beyond her personal responsibilities as a wife and mother. “How many comebacks can a gal have? When it comes to me, apparently the answer is unlimited!” Zeenat wrote in her note shared on social media.

The actress recalled that Gawaahi was shot in 1988, shortly after the birth of her first son Azaan and before the conception of her younger son Zahaan. Speaking candidly about her personal life during that period, Zeenat shared, “At this point in my life, the rosy picture of domestic bliss that I had conjured up while at the peak of my career was beginning to fade.”

She further revealed that she had moved back to her mother’s home in South Bombay with her young son when producer Vivek Vaswani and debut director Anant Balani approached her with the script of Gawaahi, a courtroom drama inspired by Ayn Rand’s play The Night of January 16th. “Having once wanted to escape my professional life, I now wanted to escape my personal life and remember my identity as something outside of daughter, mother and wife!” she wrote.

Zeenat credited her mother for stepping in and helping care for Azaan, which allowed her to return to acting. The actress played the role of Janhvi Kaul, a murder accused and secretary to a business tycoon whose mysterious death drives the narrative of the film. Reflecting on revisiting the film years later, Zeenat wrote, “I rewatched the film last night, and was reminded that it’s quite a bold and unconventional whodunnit!”

The actress also mentioned how the film marked yet another comeback in her long and celebrated career. “The role marked my return to films after giving birth, and so of course it was also hailed as a comeback. One of many I’ve apparently had since! I guess you can call me a comeback queen,” she added.

 

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Filmmaker and actor Shekhar Kapur, who was part of Gawaahi, reacted to Zeenat’s post and wrote, “I remember Gawahi well .. and I still get a lot of messages on social media about the film .. was fun doing that film , Zeenat.”

On the professional front, Zeenat Aman recently made her OTT debut with Netflix’s The Royals, co-starring Bhumi Pednekar and Ishaan Khatter. The series has already been renewed for a second season. The actress is also gearing up for her return to the big screen with Bun Tikki, backed by Manish Malhotra and featuring Abhay Deol in a pivotal role.

Also Read: When Bollywood Meets The Devil Wears Prada: AI imagines Kriti Sanon, Ananya Panday, Zeenat Aman and Hrithik Roshan in iconic fashion roles

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Steven Spielberg reveals the 20-minute finale of Disclosure Day will “bring everyone to a united epiphany about what has been happening in the world”

Universal Pictures India (distributed by Warner Bros. Discovery) is set to bring one of the most anticipated cinematic events of the year to sci-fi lovers across the country with Disclosure Day, releasing in theatres on June 12, 2026. Created and directed by the legendary Steven Spielberg, the visionary filmmaker widely regarded as the father of the modern blockbuster and recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, multiple Academy Awards, Emmy, Grammy, and Tony honors.

The film marks Spielberg’s grand return to extra-terrestrial sci-fi storytelling nearly two decades after War of the Worlds. Following the critical and commercial success of The Fabelmans, which earned multiple Academy Award nominations and won Best Motion Picture – Drama at the Golden Globes, Spielberg now returns with what aims to be one of 2026’s biggest original sci-fi spectacles.

With the powerhouse stellar cast led by Emily Blunt, Josh O’Connor, Colin Firth, Eve Hewson, and Colman Domingo. The film is penned by David Koepp, Spielberg’s longtime collaborator for iconic films like Jurassic Park, War of the Worlds, and Jurassic World: Rebirth, and produced by five-time Academy Award nominee Kristie Macosko Krieger and Spielberg himself for Amblin Entertainment.

Disclosure Day follows the story of a Kansas City meteorologist and a young whistleblower who uncovers proof of extra-terrestrial contact, forcing them to choose between revealing the truth to the world or keeping it hidden forever. Blending Steven Spielberg’s signature wonder with gripping suspense, Disclosure Day explores humanity’s reaction to the unknown on an epic scale.

Talking about the scale and experience of the film, Steven Spielberg shared his vision for building an immersive cinematic journey that leads to a final revelation. “I certainly thought that this story needed to have a couple of jet engines strapped onto it and that it needed to take the audience on a ride that would blow their hair back,” Spielberg said. “I wanted that to begin from the very first frame and conclude in a 20-minute finale that would bring everyone to a united epiphany about what has been happening in the world, what has been kept from us and what we now know.”

Further talking about the film’s central conflict, Colman Domingo, who plays Hugo Wakefield, shared how the story revolves around a hidden truth and the consequences of revealing it to the world. “The movie hinges on the idea that a profound truth has been kept secret from the world, and the conflict of the movie is rooted in a disagreement over what we risk if this truth was made known,” Domingo said. “Complicating the debate is the fact that it has been kept secret for a very long time, and in that time, people have become even more invested in keeping that truth a secret because they are too invested in the lives and world they have built.”

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Gudgudi team announces two feature films ahead of Cannes 2026 screening

As their debut short film Gudgudi gears up for its screening at the Cannes Film Festival on May 20, filmmaker Manisha Makwana and producer Harshvardhan Patel of White Peacock Films have officially announced their next two feature film projects, marking a major milestone for the banner on the global stage.

The first project is a folklore thriller centered around the chilling reality of witch hunting, with Manisha Makwana set to direct the feature, written by Yuvraj Gadhvi. Rooted in Indian folklore and social realities, the film aims to blend atmospheric storytelling with a hard-hitting narrative.

The second announcement is a romantic drama to be directed by Amit Prem Mishra, with Manisha Makwana stepping in as producer alongside Harshvardhan Patel under the White Peacock Films banner.

The announcements come at a significant moment for the team as Gudgudi, starring Ahsaas Channa, continues to generate excitement ahead of its Cannes screening on May 20.

Speaking about unveiling their upcoming slate at Cannes, director Manisha Makwana shared, “To be able to announce our next stories at a platform as prestigious as Cannes feels incredibly special and emotional. The response and enthusiasm around Gudgudi has been deeply encouraging and reaffirming for us as storytellers. I’m especially grateful to Harsh for believing in my vision and constantly backing stories that are rooted, courageous and emotionally honest. Having a creative partner who trusts your voice makes all the difference.”

Producer Harshvardhan Patel added, “Cannes has already been an unforgettable experience for us. The conversations around Gudgudi and the curiosity towards the kind of stories we want to tell has been truly motivating. With these two feature films, we are looking forward to expanding the kind of cinema White Peacock Films wants to champion – stories that are impactful, distinctive and emotionally resonant.”

With Gudgudi marking their arrival on the international festival circuit, the newly announced slate signals White Peacock Films’ intent to build a diverse and compelling storytelling portfolio across genres.

Also Read: Manisha Makwana talks about her directorial debut Gudgudi heading to Cannes 2026: “The film comes from a very personal place”

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The wait ends! Trailer of Bobby Deol starrer Bandar to release on May 21

Bandar is one of the anticipated films of 2026, and every new reveal from the film continues to build excitement. Marking the first collaboration between Bobby Deol and Anurag Kashyap, the film has already generated buzz. Its explosive teaser and first song offered a glimpse into its gritty, chaotic and intense world, leaving audiences intrigued.

With anticipation growing rapidly and the release date inching closer, excitement around the film is only getting stronger. Now, the makers are gearing up for the next big reveal as they prepare to unveil the grand and explosive trailer of Bandar on May 21.

The film’s teaser had already sparked major conversations across social media with Bobby Deol’s wild retro-rockstar avatar, gritty visuals, emotional chaos, and the dark, unpredictable world crafted by the makers. The trailer is expected to offer another powerful glimpse into the intense world of Bandar. The film also features a strong ensemble cast, including Sanya Malhotra, Raj B Shetty, Sapna Pabbi, Saba Azad, Riddhi Sen, Jitendra Joshi, Indrajeet, and Nagesh Bhosle.

Directed by Anurag Kashyap, written by Sudip Sharma and Abhishek Banerjee – the team behind Paatal Lok, Kohrra and Udta Punjab – Bandar is the kind of film Anurag Kashyap built his name making. Dark, unflinching, morally slippery. Not interested in telling you what to think. Very interested in making sure you can’t look away.

Produced by Nikhil Dwivedi’s Saffron Magicworks, and backed by Zee Studios, Bandar releases in cinemas worldwide on June 5, 2026.

Also Read: The voice in ‘Come On Baby’ song in Bandar teaser is that of Salman Khan’s nephew and musician Ayaan Agnihotri! Deets Inside

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Mona Singh undergoes stunning physical transformation for her upcoming show Paan Parda Zarda

Mona Singh has long been regarded as one of the most versatile performers in the entertainment industry, moving with ease between emotional dramas, thrillers, slice-of-life stories, and commercial entertainers. In 2026 alone, she has earned praise for her performances in films like Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos and Border 2, along with OTT shows such as Kohrra 2 and Maa Ka Sum.

While audiences continue to appreciate her acting range, the actress is now making headlines for a different reason, a noticeable physical transformation she has undertaken for her upcoming show Paan Parda Zarda, in which she will be seen in a bold and commanding avatar, quite different from her previous roles.

Opening up about the journey, Mona revealed that fitness had long been one of her unfinished promises to herself. “I always wanted to look a certain way, but I have been so lazy. I kept making my Monday promises and New Year resolutions, but they never turned into reality. I would be like, ‘Okay, I’ll do it next month, or from the first of next month, or from next Monday’. It never happened. I think I got motivated and pushed myself for the role. I was told I needed to look a certain way for the character. It’s a bold and sassy character. So, I have done this for an upcoming show Paan Parda Zarda. And suddenly I felt why I did not do it earlier,” she said.

She added, “It is so important to look after yourself to look the way you can and, you know, to wear the kind of clothes that I always wanted to wear. I am experimenting with my fashion; I am experimenting with my characters. I was like, ‘Enough with being called cute, cute. It’s time to look hot and change your looks and shock yourself and then the people also’. So, I loved the whole transformation.”

Paan Parda Zarda is currently in post-production, and fans are eagerly waiting to see this exciting new side of Mona Singh.

Also Read: Mona Singh shares thoughts on streaming giants changing the industry: “There were very clear boxes”

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Veer Pahariya to lead action-thriller titled Benaam, Mahesh Bhatt to join as presenter

Actor Veer Pahariya is gearing up for a new cinematic outing as the lead in the upcoming action-thriller Benaam. Adding further intrigue to the project, veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt has come on board as the presenter, lending his name and creative association to the film.

Touted as a rooted action entertainer, Benaam is expected to blend intense emotions with high-energy action sequences, while also featuring a commercially appealing music album. The makers are reportedly aiming to strike a balance between mass appeal and emotional depth, aiming to make the film a potentially exciting addition to the action genre.

Sources close to the development reveal that Veer will be seen stepping into a rugged anti-hero role for the very first time. The character is said to showcase a darker, more intense side of the actor, marking a notable shift in his on-screen image and opening up a fresh space in his career.

While the makers are keeping details about the supporting cast and technical crew tightly under wraps, industry buzz around the film has already started building. An official announcement with more information is expected in the coming days.

With an action narrative, emotionally charged storyline, and Mahesh Bhatt’s involvement as presenter, Benaam has already piqued curiosity among film enthusiasts and industry insiders alike. The project could also mark an interesting change for Veer as he explores a more action-heavy and unconventional screen avatar.

Veer was last seen in his debut flick Sky Force, which had released last year.

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Khushi Kapoor’s sun-soaked vacation is all about beachcore fashion and coastal vibes

Actress Khushi Kapoor recently gave fans a glimpse into her relaxing beach vacation through a stunning social media photo dump that quickly caught everyone’s attention online. Filled with scenic coastal views, effortless beach fashion, and candid holiday moments, the post perfectly captured the mood of a dreamy summer getaway.

Sharing the pictures on her Instagram handle, Khushi kept the caption simple and elegant. She wrote, “Kalimera,” a Greek greeting commonly used to say “good morning.” The post soon received love from fans and friends from the industry alike. Among those reacting to the pictures was Aaliyah Kashyap, daughter of filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, who commented, “gorgina.”

One of the standout images from the carousel featured a breathtaking daytime coastal landscape under a bright blue sky. The serene beach was lined with rustic straw umbrellas spread across the sandy shoreline, creating a postcard-perfect Mediterranean-inspired setting. In the background, lush green hills met the crystal-clear turquoise waters, while a tiny tree-covered islet added to the picturesque beauty of the location.

 

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Another picture showcased Khushi embracing effortless beach glamour as she posed on dark volcanic rocks by the sea. The actress was seen flashing a bright smile while dipping her feet into the clear water. For the look, she opted for a metallic bronze-brown bikini featuring delicate straps and a statement gold ring detail at the center. Keeping the styling minimal yet chic, Khushi accessorized with angular sunglasses, a dainty pendant necklace, soft pink nail paint, and a sleek wrist accessory. Her windswept hair and relaxed expression added a natural and candid charm to the photograph.

The final highlighted image from the series reflected a completely different mood. Transitioning from beachwear to cozy casuals, Khushi leaned against a metal railing with the ocean stretching behind her. She wore an oversized olive-green Ralph Lauren sweater featuring the iconic teddy bear graphic, paired with relaxed dark denim jeans and black-and-white sneakers. With sunglasses casually resting on her head and a soft smile on her face, the actress effortlessly balanced comfort with understated fashion.

Also Read: Boney Kapoor, Janhvi Kapoor and Khushi Kapoor get major relief as Madras High Court dismisses Chennai property suit linked to Sridevi 

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Anurag Kashyap says, “In India, the problem and obsession with cannes is only to walk the red carpet”; calls focus on cinema ‘least important’

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has shared his candid views on India’s growing fascination with the Cannes Film Festival, stating that conversations around the prestigious event are often dominated by red carpet appearances rather than cinema itself.

Speaking to film critic and content creator Sucharita Tyagi at Cannes, Kashyap addressed what he believes is a larger misunderstanding around the purpose of the festival, especially in India. According to the filmmaker, public discourse around Cannes tends to focus excessively on fashion and celebrity visibility instead of filmmaking and global storytelling. “In India, the problem and obsession with Cannes is only to walk the red carpet. They don’t understand there’s a festival and the purpose of it is beyond the red carpet,” Kashyap said.

The filmmaker, who has been associated with international film festivals through several of his projects, further dismissed the idea that walking the red carpet is central to the Cannes experience. Talking about his own approach, he remarked, “No, we just move away from the side”.

Elaborating on what he considers more important at Cannes, Kashyap stressed that the festival should primarily be viewed as a platform for cinema, discovery, and international collaborations. “The thing is, that’s the least important part of it. What is more important is the cinema and I don’t think people even come here for cinema. Even all the Indian people who are coming to the market are not watching films. Very rarely I see someone,” he stated.

Kashyap also touched upon structural issues within the Indian film ecosystem, particularly the hesitation producers have towards film festivals and the lack of awareness around submission timelines and opportunities. According to him, misinformation and delays often result in Indian films missing valuable opportunities to showcase themselves on global platforms. “There’s a lot of misinformation in India and the producers fear festivals. So what happens is, they’re never in time, they’re delayed and even if the film had a chance to showcase itself at any of the categories, they lose that chance because they’re never in time”, he added.

The filmmaker’s comments have sparked discussion online, particularly amid the annual buzz surrounding Indian celebrity appearances at Cannes. While the red carpet continues to remain a major talking point each year, Kashyap’s remarks underline a broader conversation around cinema, festival participation, and India’s engagement with international film platforms beyond fashion and glamour.

Also Read: Adivi Sesh credits Akshay Kumar’s Pad Man for Dacoit’s Hindi-Telugu strategy: “It was a Tamil story and yet it was set in Madhya Pradesh”

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Photos: Vedang Raina, Sharvari and Imtiaz Ali snapped promoting Main Vaapas Aaunga

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Keerthy Suresh says, “When you are plumpy they want you to be fit”; actress opens up about body shaming and fitness journey

National Award-winning actor Keerthy Suresh has opened up about her long and personal fitness journey in a candid social media statement, where she addressed body shaming, rumours surrounding cosmetic surgery, and the pressures of constantly changing beauty standards.

Sharing a detailed note with fans, the actor revealed that she had never publicly spoken about her health and wellness journey before. Calling fitness her “biggest teacher,” Keerthy reflected on how her understanding of health evolved over the years. “High time I shared this.. I’ve never really spoken about my fitness journey. It’s been my biggest teacher. Every day I still learn something new about my body, and myself,” she wrote.

Looking back at the beginning of her acting career in 2013, the actor admitted that she initially had little understanding of fitness and ignored the basic needs of her body. According to Keerthy, things began to change after the release of Mahanati in 2018, when she decided to seriously focus on her health. “I jumped into HIIT and cardio with a high-protein, low-carb diet. Lost 10 kgs in 9 months. I felt proud until people called me ‘weak’ and said I’d had ‘surgeries.’ I’ve always kept things natural, even with my face, so hearing that stung a wee bit because all my hard work was put under a knife and ouch!” she shared.

The actor further explained that she eventually shifted towards yoga in 2020, which helped her find better balance physically and mentally. Over time, she also realised the importance of strength training and gradually built a more balanced routine incorporating yoga, cardio, animal flow, and calisthenics. “Now, strength training anchors my routine. I balance it with yoga, animal flow, cardio and calisthenics. This is honestly the best I’ve felt,” Keerthy stated.

 

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One of the most talked-about sections of her note was her observation on society’s constantly shifting expectations around women’s bodies. “When you are plumpy they want you to be fit and when you are thin they just want you plumpy. I wonder how the world works sometimes…” she wrote. Keerthy also revealed that she recently went through a “physical and mental setback,” which led to her being away from the public eye for the last few months. However, she maintained that despite setbacks, she remains committed to her wellness journey.

“I’ve had a physical and mental setback recently. I have been MIA for the last few months, but this journey reminds me: if at some point I have to break, pause, or stop, I will; but I’ll never give up! Bring it on…” the actor concluded.

Also Read: 8 years of Mahanati: Keerthy Suresh recalls, “I almost lost myself in the character”

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John Abraham reacts after Shekhar Kapur suggests him as next James Bond: “I’ll happily start practising my martini order immediately”

John Abraham has finally responded after filmmaker Shekhar Kapur suggested his name as a potential successor to James Bond in the globally popular spy-action franchise. The conversation began when Shekhar Kapur took to social media to share his thoughts on who could play the next Bond following Daniel Craig’s exit from the franchise. The filmmaker wrote that John Abraham possesses the “Bond charm” and the cool “shaken not stirred” persona associated with the iconic spy character.

Now, John Abraham has reacted to the filmmaker’s endorsement with a witty and grateful response that has quickly gone viral among fans. “Thank you so much Sir @shekharkapur… Truly humbled by your words and encouragement. Coming from someone who not only redefined storytelling but also had the instinct to spot Daniel Craig before the world saw Bond in him… this means a lot to me. As for Bond… I’ll happily start practising my martini order immediately. Shaken, not stirred”, John wrote on social media.

The actor’s response instantly grabbed attention online, with many fans praising his sense of humour and agreeing that he could convincingly fit into the suave and action-heavy world of Bond.

Thank you so much Sir @shekharkapur Truly humbled by your words and encouragement. Coming from someone who not only redefined storytelling but also had the instinct to spot Daniel Craig before the world saw Bond in him… this means a lot to me.
As for Bond… I’ll happily start… https://t.co/eQCOxnQmaE

— John Abraham (@TheJohnAbraham) May 16, 2026

In his original post, Shekhar Kapur had also recalled how Daniel Craig landed the role of Bond in Casino Royale after the producers noticed his performance in Kapur’s acclaimed historical drama Elizabeth. The filmmaker’s statement reignited discussions around the casting process for the next Bond, a topic that has remained under intense speculation ever since Craig’s final outing in No Time to Die.

Interestingly, John Abraham is no stranger to the action and spy genre. Over the years, the actor has played intelligence officers, cops and high-octane action heroes in several films, building a strong screen image associated with physically demanding roles and stylish action sequences.

Some of his notable performances in the genre include Force, Batla House and Attack. His commanding screen presence and action-oriented filmography have often made him a fan-favourite choice for larger-than-life action franchises.

While there has been no official word from the makers of the Bond franchise regarding the next actor to play 007, the exchange between Shekhar Kapur and John Abraham has certainly added an Indian angle to the global conversation.

Also Read: Shekhar Kapur roots for John Abraham as next James Bond after Daniel Craig: “He has the Bond charm”

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Ananya Panday celebrates the graduation of her sister Rysaa Panday in New York; shares heartfelt moments

Ananya Panday recently took to social media to celebrate a special milestone in her family as her younger sister Rysaa Panday graduated in New York. The actress shared a series of photographs capturing moments from the graduation ceremony along with several candid glimpses from the family’s time in the city.

The photo carousel featured a mix of heartwarming family pictures, solo shots of Rysaa, and scenic snapshots from around New York. While a few images highlighted Ananya’s touristy side as she explored the city, several others showcased her close bond with parents Chunky Pandey and Bhavana Pandey, who had accompanied the actress for the special occasion.

One of the standout aspects of the post was the warmth and affection shared among the Panday family members. Fans were quick to notice the candid chemistry between the sisters as well as the emotional family moments from the graduation celebrations. Ananya also included individual pictures of Rysaa, giving followers a glimpse into her younger sister’s big day.

Sharing the post, Ananya wrote, “My chuchu is a graduate + a few of my fave things and if you get till the end you areeeee ____”. The caption also referred to the final image in the carousel, which featured an animal-print couch decorated with alphabet pillows spelling out the word “SEXY.” The playful ending quickly caught the attention of social media users, many of whom reacted with laughter and appreciation in the comments section.

 

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The actress’ post soon began circulating widely online, with fans praising the family’s bond and congratulating Rysaa on her graduation milestone. Several users also appreciated the candid and relaxed nature of the pictures, calling them both stylish and relatable.

On the professional front, Ananya Panday has an exciting line-up of projects ahead. The actress is currently preparing for the release of Chand Mera Dil, produced by Dharma Productions, in which she stars opposite Lakshya for the first time.

Apart from that, Ananya is also looking forward to the second season of Call Me Bae, which will stream on Amazon Prime Video. The actress has been actively sharing updates from both her personal and professional life, keeping fans engaged across platforms.

Also Read: Ananya Panday becomes Chanel Fragrance & Beauty ambassador in India

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18 Years of Jannat EXCLUSIVE: When Emraan Hashmi had to hide in a BATHROOM in a Kolkata mall amid massive fan frenzy

May 16 marks 18 years of Jannat (2008), a film that redefined romance with Emraan Hashmi and Sonal Chauhan in the lead. The film,  directed by Kunal Deshmukh, went on to create a cult following for its gripping, emotionally charged storyline, written by Vishesh Bhatt and Kunal Deshmukh.

Produced by Mukesh Bhatt with Vishesh Bhatt as creative producer, the film struck gold at the box office while creating a massive buzz among audiences. Emraan Hashmi’s effortless charm worked like magic, with fans, especially young women, dreaming of a partner like him.

Speaking about Jannat, Emraan Hashmi shared, “I remember it was 16th May 2008, during the inaugural IPL season. We had gone to a mall in Kolkata for a meet-and-greet. What started as a simple interaction quickly turned into a near stampede. The situation got so intense that the mall owner had to step in and I was even moved into a bathroom to manage the crowd, with police called in to ensure everyone’s safety. I couldn’t believe people were just shouting my name, wanting to catch a glimpse. Jannat definitely became a huge turning point in my career.”

Jannat told the story of Arjun Dixit, a street-smart, ambitious young man whose talent for predicting cricket match outcomes pulls him into the risky world of betting, until love upends everything.

Not just the story, even the music album composed by Pritam was ranked among the year’s top soundtracks. Songs like ‘Zara Si’, ‘Judaai’, ‘Haan Tu Hai’, and ‘Jannat Jahan’ became instant chartbusters and continue to remain fan favourites even today.

With Awarapan 2 among the most anticipated films of 2026, Vishesh Bhatt and Emraan Hashmi are set to bring back intense love, raw emotion and soulful storytelling to the big screen on August 14, 2026.

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Alia Bhatt picks Love & War to premiere at Cannes Film Festival; describes her style as “dreamy, ethereal, princessy”

Actor Alia Bhatt continued to turn heads at the 79th edition of the Cannes Film Festival with her striking Day 3 appearance that blended Indian heritage with contemporary couture. After making waves with her earlier red carpet looks, Alia embraced a regal “Modern Maharani” aesthetic for her latest outing, wearing a custom ivory ensemble by designer Tarun Tahiliani.

During a brief interaction with Grazia at Cannes, the actor opened up about what excites her most about attending the prestigious global festival this year.

“What excites me the most about being at Cannes this year is that I am in Cannes this year,” Alia said with a smile, reflecting her excitement about representing India on one of cinema’s biggest international platforms.

The actor also revealed which Bollywood film she would love to see premiere at Cannes in the future. “I would say Love & War,” she shared, referring to her upcoming film directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. The much-awaited project also stars Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal.

Speaking about Indian fashion on the global stage, Alia praised homegrown designers for making a strong international impact. “All Indian designers are absolutely fabulous, and honestly, are killing at global stages,” she said. Referring to her look for the evening, she added, “Tonight I am wearing the absolutely fabulous Tarun Tahiliani. I am feeling very Bridgerton-coded.”

When asked to describe her Cannes style this year, Alia summed it up in a few words: “Colorful, dreamy, ethereal, princessy. I am hoping you’ll feel all this because I am definitely feeling it while I wear it.”

Beyond fashion, the actor briefly spoke about the kinds of stories she hopes to explore next in her career. “Always stories that stay with you,” she said.

Alia Bhatt attended Cannes as a global ambassador for L’Oréal Paris. Professionally, she has a packed slate ahead with Alpha scheduled for release later this year, followed by Love & War in January 2027.

Also Read: Sonu Sood defends Alia Bhatt amid Cannes 2026 trolling; says “People who are busy building dreams don’t have time to pull others down”

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Spider-Man: Brand New Day poster unveils darkest avatar of Tom Holland in his Peter Parker era

The makers of Spider-Man: Brand New Day have unveiled a brand-new poster for the highly anticipated superhero film, further building excitement among fans eagerly waiting for Tom Holland’s return as Peter Parker. Following the strong response to the film’s tra     iler, the latest poster offers a deeper glimpse into the emotional and darker tone of Spider-Man’s next chapter.

The newly released artwork features Tom Holland’s Peter Parker with the iconic Spider-Man suit concealed beneath his hoodie, symbolising that although the world may have forgotten Peter Parker, the hero still remains committed to protecting New York City. The visual hints at the emotional isolation Peter continues to live with after the events of Spider-Man: No Way Home, where he chose to erase himself from the memories of those closest to him.

Alongside the poster, the makers have also released a special behind-the-scenes featurette on YouTube, offering fans glimpses into the making of the film and teasing the scale of the new adventure awaiting Spider-Man.

 

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Set four years after the events of No Way Home, Spider-Man: Brand New Day explores Peter Parker’s life as an adult navigating complete solitude while dedicating himself entirely to crime-fighting. Living in a New York City that no longer remembers his identity, Peter has embraced his role as a full-time Spider-Man. However, as the pressures of protecting the city intensify, the superhero begins experiencing a mysterious physical evolution that threatens his very existence. At the same time, a strange new wave of crimes introduces one of the most dangerous threats Spider-Man has ever faced.

Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, the film sees Tom Holland reprise his role alongside returning cast members Zendaya and Jacob Batalon. The ensemble also includes Sadie Sink, Jon Bernthal, Mark Ruffalo, Michael Mando, and Tramell Tillman in pivotal roles.

Backed by Sony Pictures Entertainment, Spider-Man: Brand New Day is set to release in theatres across India on July 31, 2026, in English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam across premium formats.

Also Read: Tom Holland’s Spider-Man returns with intense new posters, promises most emotional chapter yet

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Rohit Saraf joins Mahakali from the world of Hanu-Man; completes Hyderabad schedule

RKD Studios and filmmaker Prasanth Varma continue to build momentum around Mahakali, the next chapter from the world of Hanu-Man, as Rohit Saraf comes on board for the film. The actor has recently completed shooting for the film in Hyderabad, marking a significant new arc in its expanding narrative.

With Rohit Saraf’s addition, the film strengthens its ensemble while widening its appeal across audiences. The actor enjoys a strong following in the North, particularly among the youth, further anchoring the film’s pan-India reach.

The film also stars Akshaye Khanna and Bhoomi Shetty in pivotal roles, with their first looks already generating intrigue for their striking and intense visual appeal.

Mounted on a grand cinematic scale, Mahakali is being produced by RK Duggal and Riwaz Ramesh Duggal under the banner of RKD Studios, as part of Prasanth Varma’s vision to expand a uniquely Indian cinematic universe following the success of Hanu-Man.

The film is progressing steadily and is positioned as one of the most anticipated upcoming pan-India projects.

Also Read: The Revolutionaries Teaser: Rohit Saraf, Pratibha Ranta, Gurfateh Pirzada, and Bhuvan Bam explore a fierce rebellion story set in pre-Independence era

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Harman Baweja on co-writing Sonakshi Sinha starrer System: “I’ve genuinely started enjoying writing more and more over time”

After backing across projects like Mrs., Haq, Kaptaan, Bhagwat: Chapter One – Raakshas, Harman Baweja returns with System, a courtroom drama where he serves as co-writer and producer. Over the last few years, Harman has steadily built a space for himself as a storyteller, focusing on stories that are rooted in strong emotions and social realities, and System continues that journey.

Directed by Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, the film stars Sonakshi Sinha, Jyotika, and Ashutosh Gowariker in lead roles and revolves around questions of justice, power, and morality within a flawed system.

Talking about the film, Harman Baweja said, “System is not just a courtroom drama. It’s a compelling story of justice and inequality wrapped inside a deeply gripping narrative. Co-writing this film has been a very exciting journey for me because writing is something I’ve genuinely started enjoying more and more over time. What made this experience even more special was collaborating with such amazing talent Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari ji, Sonakshi, Jyotika, Ashutosh sir, and the entire team at Prime Video. As a producer and writer, it feels great to be part of a film that is entertaining but also says something important. I’m really looking forward to audiences watching System and connecting with its world and characters.”

Produced by Pammi Baweja, Harman Baweja, and Smitha Baliga, System is written by Harman Baweja, Arun Sukumar, Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, Tasneem Lokhandwala, and Akshat Ghildial. The Prime Original movie is set to premiere exclusively on Prime Video on May 22 across India and more than 240 countries and territories worldwide.

Also Read: System Trailer: Sonakshi Sinha and Jyotika face off in Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari’s intense courtroom thriller

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Photos: Neha Bhasin snapped at the gym in Santacruz

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EXCLUSIVE: Karan Anshuman defends Glory’s SHOCKING climax: “I don’t see it as an unacceptable ending in any way…it is about patriarchy and blind obsession”

Karan Anshuman is one of the directors of Glory, the Netflix series that has been receiving widespread acclaim. Starring Pulkit Samrat, Divyenndu, Suvinder Vicky and others, the show stands out for blending the world of boxing with an intriguing whodunit. The show ends on a shocking and unexpected note, which has become a talking point on the internet. In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, Karan Anshuman spoke about this aspect and a lot more.

When asked if he had any criticism for the climax since it’s unexpected and disturbing, he replied, “No, I haven’t got any negative feedback. Some people claimed that they were able to guess it. I don’t believe it! But I guess, there are many smart people out there.”

Karan explained why he went for such an ending, “If you apply the cultural lens and realize where the story is set, it is not shocking because we have seen so many stories in real life. Another word for glory is honour. If you think about the word ‘honour’ and ‘killing’, you know what happens. So, there were many clues along the way that would have pointed it out. It is about patriarchy and having this blind obsession with chasing something. Considering all these factors, I don’t see it as an unacceptable ending in anyway.”

Karan Anshuman has also turned producer and started Atomic Films with Mohit Shah. Speaking about it, Karan explained, “Under Atomic Films, we have produced Glory, Rana Naidu and Andhera. Now, there are films happening for sure. I have a couple of things in place. What’s interesting is that it was set up to do my stuff. But I quickly realized that it has empowered both Mohit and me to look at other voices and enable them. We want to do a certain kind of storytelling which makes a brand out of it in a way. There are a lot of people with whom we have grown up in the last few years, be it writers or directors, and I would love to enable all these people and help them get a platform. I know my own journey and how difficult it was to get a break. It took me 10 years. I just want to make sure that things are fairer now.”

Karan is one of the creators of the iconic series, Mirzapur, which is being made into a film. How does he look at this development? He replied, “I am very happy for everyone. This is literally the first time that it’s happening that a show is going to theatres. I am sure it’ll work and once that happens, it’ll be great. I am sure it’ll work and once that happens, it’ll be great. All of us can then have new characters, who have been seen on smaller screens, go on to a much bigger platform. So, I am hoping that it does well.”

Future plans

When asked about what’s next in the pipeline, Karan Anshuman revealed, “I am writing five scripts right now and I hope I can get going with one of them as soon as I can.”

Interestingly, Karan Anshuman has made only one film, Bangistan (2015), after which he made several web series including Inside Edge, the first OTT show in India. Does he have any plans to get back to directing movies?

Karan Anshuman answered, “100%. I have some scripts. But it’s all about timing and opportunities. Whether it’s a film or a series is not important. I am more interested in telling a story and how excited I get about it. Then, I have to understand whether it’ll take me two hours to tell that story or six hours. That’s it. Glory could have been a film. But it had so much to say and keeping up the pace for seven episodes was more rewarding. Also, casting is perhaps trickier for films than it is for a show. If I have a single hero, other things in place and a solid two-hour one-line story that cannot possibly hold for six hours, then of course, it’ll be made as a film. So, I am open to everything.”

He added, “However, I enjoy streaming. There’s a uniqueness to it and it’s like my home ground in a way.”

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Ayushmann Khurrana starrer Pati Patni Aur Woh Do aims to keep comedy genre alive after Bhooth Bangla box office success

Trade was speculating that after the unimaginable success of Dhurandhar, what kind of content would work at the box office. Then came Akshay Kumar with Bhooth Bangla and showed everyone why he is the master of comedies. Most importantly, audiences rediscovered something they had quietly missed for years — unapologetic, loud, situational comedy.

Now, it seems like Ayushmann Khurrana’s Pati Patni Aur Woh Do might extend the hit run for comedy genre, an all audience favourite, started by Bhooth Bangla!

When the first poster of Pati Patni Aur Woh Do dropped online, the reaction was instant curiosity. The title alone sounded like classic Bollywood confusion comedy. But insiders claimed the film was far more ambitious than people expected.

Pati Patni Aur Woh Do follows Ayushmann whose life spirals into absurdity after three women enter his life leading to hilarious situational comedy that has been missing in theatres!

Where Bhooth Bangla succeeded by mixing supernatural madness with old-school comic timing, Pati Patni Aur Woh Do appeared ready to carry the momentum forward with urban relationship comedy rooted in everyday bizarreness. The common factor was simple: both films prioritized fun & entertainment over spectacle.

Cinema owners are also optimistic. One distributor described the film perfectly, “People are exhausted from being emotionally drained every Friday. They want to laugh together again.”

Even industry veterans began comparing the moment to the golden comedy eras of the 2000s — when theatrical comedies dominated conversations for months. The difference now was that the humor had evolved. Instead of slapstick alone, films like Pati Patni Aur Woh Do blended satire about digital life, marriage pressure, online culture and modern insecurities.

Ayushmann himself is the ideal face to shoulder such comedies having delivered super successes with this genre throughout his career starting from Vicky Donor. Audiences trusted him to turn panic into comedy without losing emotional warmth.

Nothing unites an audience faster than laughter and Ayushmann’s film is looking to do just that when it releases in theatres on May 15th worldwide.

Also Read: Ayushmann Khurrana reveals Aamir Khan connection in Pati Patni Aur Woh Do!

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Anupam Kher returns to DDLJ’s climax spot in Maharashtra, urges government to preserve cinematic heritage

Anupam Kher recently took a nostalgic trip down memory lane as he revisited the iconic railway station where the climax scene of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge was filmed more than three decades ago. On May 11, 2026, the veteran actor shared a video on social media from Apta Station in Raigad district, Maharashtra, the same location where one of Indian cinema’s most memorable scenes featuring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol was shot.

The station became immortalised in Bollywood history through the climax sequence in which Raj pulls Simran onto a moving train. The moment continues to be regarded as one of the defining romantic scenes in Indian cinema.

Sharing his emotions, Anupam Kher wrote that returning to the same location after 32 years felt deeply emotional and filled with memories. Translating his Hindi caption into English, the actor said it did not feel like so many years had passed since the filming of the famous Raj and Simran sequence. He admitted that while shooting the film, nobody could have imagined that the scene featuring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol would go on to become one of the most iconic moments in Indian cinematic history.

 

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He further reflected that the beauty of life lies in realising the greatness of certain moments much later. According to the actor, standing once again at Apta Station made it feel as though time had paused for a while.

Anupam Kher also urged the Maharashtra government to develop the location into a tourist destination. He pointed out that globally, film locations often become emotional landmarks for audiences and fans, and India too should preserve such cinematic heritage with the same respect.

In his post, the actor fondly remembered late filmmaker Yash Chopra and spoke about his warmth, simplicity and generosity. He also added a philosophical note, writing that magic does not only exist in films, but sometimes becomes a part of certain places as well.

Released in 1995 and directed by Aditya Chopra, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge remains one of the most celebrated Hindi films of all time. Even after more than three decades, the film continues to enjoy immense popularity among audiences across generations.

Also Read: Kajol reacts to The Academy’s nostalgic post on Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge

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