Allu Arjun drops adorable birthday wish for son that melts hearts: “Happy Birthday, My Chinni Babu” goes viral

Allu Arjun has once again delighted fans, this time with a touching glimpse into his personal life. The actor took to social media to celebrate his son’s birthday, sharing a heartfelt post for Ayaan that quickly went viral and won over fans across the country.

Known for keeping his family life relatively private, the Pushpa star surprised followers with an intimate and affectionate picture. In the candid moment, Allu Arjun is seen warmly embracing his son, capturing a genuine father-son bond that resonated deeply with his audience.

Accompanying the photo was a heartfelt caption that added to the emotional appeal of the post. He wrote, “Many happy returns of the day to the love of my life. Happy Birthday, my chinni babu.” The simple yet powerful message struck a chord with fans, who flooded the comments section with wishes and admiration for the star and his family.

 

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Over the years, Allu Arjun has built a massive fan base not just for his on-screen charisma but also for his grounded personality off-screen. Moments like these further strengthen his connection with fans, offering a rare peek into the man behind the superstar image.

While the actor is currently enjoying this personal milestone, his professional journey continues to generate significant excitement. Allu Arjun is gearing up for a highly anticipated collaboration with filmmaker Atlee Kumar for a project tentatively titled AA22. The film has already created considerable buzz, with fans eager to see what this powerful combination will bring to the big screen.

In addition, the actor is also set to join hands with acclaimed director Lokesh Kanagaraj for AA23. Known for his distinctive storytelling and gripping narratives, Lokesh’s collaboration with Allu Arjun is expected to be another major milestone in the actor’s career.

Balancing personal joy with professional ambition, Allu Arjun continues to stay at the forefront of Indian cinema. As fans celebrate this heartwarming family moment, they also eagerly await his upcoming projects, which promise to further elevate his already stellar filmography.

Also Read: Allu Arjun Fans Association launches HPV vaccine drive ahead of actor’s April 8 birthday

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Web Series Review: Maamla Legal Hai Season 2

Star Cast: Ravi Kishan, Naila Grrewal, Nidhi Bisht, Anjum Batra, Anant Vijay Joshi

Director: Rahul Pandey

Synopsis:

MAAMLA LEGAL HAI SEASON 2 is the story of everyday life in a court. After the events of the first season, Vishweshwar Dayal Tyagi aka V D Tyagi (Ravi Kishan) becomes the Principal District Judge at Patparganj Court, Delhi. Kailash Shubhkela (Dibyendu Bhattacharya) is also appointed as a District Judge at the same court. Tyagi becomes good friends with Kailash and starts enjoying his stint as a judge. However, he also feels stifled as there are too many restrictions on him now. Meanwhile, Jagdish Gupta aka Munshi ji (Vijay Rajoria) takes over Tyagi’s chamber and is assisted by Lakhmir Singh Balli aka Mintu (Anjum Batra) and Sujata Negi (Nidhi Bisht). However, they have a tiff over whether the chamber should be named Balli Negi And Associates or Negi Balli And Associates. To resolve this issue, Munshi ji devises a plan: whoever solves the maximum number of cases within a specific period will have their name mentioned first. On the other hand, Ananya Shroff (Naila Grrewal) struggles to register her first courtroom victory. She takes up the case of Banaspati (Dinesh Lal Yadav aka Nirahua), whose underarms are burnt after he is misled into using a deodorant because of its advertisement. Hence, he sues the deodorant company and seeks compensation of Rs. 5 lakhs. Ananya is shocked to learn that Nayana Arora (Kusha Kapila) will fight the case on behalf of the deodorant brand. Ananya and Nayana have been rivals since childhood and hence, the case becomes personal for them. What happens next forms the rest of the season.

Maamla Legal Hai Season 2 Story Review:

Kunal Aneja, Syed Shadan, Mohan Aneja and Tatsat Pandey’s story is inspired from real life episodes and is amusing. Kunal Aneja, Syed Shadan, Mohan Aneja and Tatsat Pandey’s screenplay is breezy and peppered with some fine moments. However, just like the first season, the same minuses also persist in the sequel. Kunal Aneja, Syed Shadan, Mohan Aneja and Tatsat Pandey’s dialogues are one of the USPs. Several dialogues would raise a lot of laughs.

Rahul Pandey’s direction is simple and effective. Just like the first season, Season 2 also commences with a hilarious voiceover by Vijay Raaz. Every episode ends with newspaper clippings that prove that the bizarre cases shown in the show are inspired by true events. The first season was lauded as it showed a side of the legal world that JOLLY LLB, THE TRIAL etc. didn’t touch upon. This aspect is further explored in Season 2. We see V D Tyagi facing unexpected challenges while functioning as a judge. For instance, he’s instructed not to smile anymore to the lawyers. This bit is never explored before in any film or show and it adds a nice touch. The oath ceremony and the chaos that ensues are superb and set the mood. The deodorant track is the best of the lot, followed by the bizarre happenings in Episode 6 (a strict mother-in-law provoking her daughter-in-law’s brother and the ‘Act Of God’ moment). A solid twist comes up in Episode 7, which will surprise viewers. The final scene of the final episode is also interesting and sets the tone for the forthcoming season.

On the flipside, V D Tyagi becomes a judge to experience the ‘kick’, but that very kick is missing for the viewers. This is because while the makers succeed in landing the jokes, they falter when it comes to the emotional moments. As a result, the show never quite rises to the desired high, something that had also affected Season 1. The track of Varsha (Pooja Shyam Prabhat) is highly amusing, but it is forgotten after a point. The final episode, too, turns serious, yet fails to leave the desired impact.

Maamla Legal Hai Season 2 Performances:

Ravi Kishan is exemplary. He totally gets into the skin of his character and puts up a very lovable and effective act. Naila Grrewal delivers yet another confident performance. Nidhi Bisht is the soul of the show. She gets to display her histrionics and nails the part. Anjum Batra and Anant Vijay Joshi (Vishwas Pandey) are too good and lend able support. Dibyendu Bhattacharya handles his part with panache. Vijay Rajoria is dependable, as expected. Dinesh Lal Yadav, aka Nirahua, is hilarious and it needs solid conviction to pull off such a character. Kusha Kapila leaves a huge mark. However, her screen time is limited. R Badree (Bipin Topo; reader) manages to register. Bishwanath Bhattacharya (Judge Ghosh) is fair and plays a relatable character. The others who do well are Amit Vikram Pandey (Law aka Nikunj), Vikram (Order), Vijaykant Kohli (Judge Sunil Pathak), Abhishek Sharma (Advocate Bagai), Imran Rasheed (Daleel), Kumar Saurabh (Shambhu), Sudhir Sangwan (Pepsu; cop), Garima Vikrant Singh (Sagarika), Brijendra Kala (P P Sahab), Poonam Mathur (Sharma Aunty; landlady), Prasanna Bisht (Sonam; daughter-in-law), Arnav Bhasin (Nihal; Sonam’s husband), Durga Sharma (Nihal’s mother), Pranay Singh (Pawan; juvenile delinquent), Gautam Rode (Danish; gay lover of a deceased person) and Sameer Saxena (Rajesh; Well Tricks Manufacturing And Packaging manager). Pooja Shyam Prabhat is wasted and the same applies to Tenzing Choden (Maya Tamang; stenographer). Rajendra Gupta (S D Tyagi) again makes a special appearance but this time, his character doesn’t pack a punch like last time. Tanvi Azmi (Judge Bainsla) is much better in a cameo. Lastly, special mention should go to the Ajay Devgn lookalike, Ajay Verma (e-rickshaw driver). He’s hilarious.

Maamla Legal Hai Season 2 music and other technical aspects:

Nilotpal Bora’s music is forgettable. Nilotpal Bora’s background score is well-woven into the narrative. Milind Jog’s cinematography is satisfactory. Shraddha V Vasugavade and Prashant Ray’s production design and Veera Kapur Ee’s costumes are realistic yet appealing. Chandrashekhar Prajapati’s editing is slick. The episodes this time are a bit longer, but none of them is dragging or slow.

Maamla Legal Hai Season 2 Review Conclusion:

On the whole, MAAMLA LEGAL HAI SEASON 2 rests on a quirky and novel premise, packs in several amusing and bizarre courtroom cases and is adorned with witty dialogues and entertaining performances. However, the lack of strong emotional highs and a finale that doesn’t hit as hard as expected prevents it from being a thoroughly impactful follow-up. Nevertheless, for viewers who enjoyed the humour and slice-of-court chaos of the first season, this one makes for a fun and worthwhile watch.

Rating – 3.5 stars

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

Over the years, actor Janhvi Kapoor has observed something that rarely gets spoken about openly. As alcohol has become more and more normalised in social life, very little awareness exists around the point at which social drinking becomes a clinical concern. Alcohol addiction, a diagnosable condition with neurological, psychological, and emotional dimensions, affects nearly one in five alcohol users in India, yet remains one of the most stigmatised and under-treated mental health conditions in the country. Most people navigating it do so without a name for what they’re experiencing, without access to professional support, and against a cultural backdrop that either ignores the issue or reduces it to a question of willpower.

Janhvi decided to use her platform to change that. The result is ‘Off the Rocks’, a structured, community-driven awareness initiative designed to shift the public conversation around alcohol addiction from silence and judgment to clinical understanding, self-awareness, and access to care.

“The conversation around alcohol is either completely absent or deeply judgmental — and neither serves the people who actually need support. Alcohol addiction is real, it’s clinical, and it affects people across every walk of life. ‘Off the Rocks’ is about making it easier to acknowledge that, and to know that help exists,” said Janhvi Kapoor.

As the initiative took shape, it became clear that personal conviction alone wasn’t enough, the conversation needed clinical credibility and professional infrastructure behind it. Janhvi sought a partner with the depth, rigour, and reach to ensure that ‘Off the Rocks’ didn’t just raise awareness, but meaningfully connected people to the right care. That partner is Amaha.

Amaha is India’s leading full-spectrum mental health organisation, built on the belief that mental health care must be evidence-based, person-centred and accessible. With a clinical team of over 200 mental health professionals and more than 6,000,000 individuals served globally, Amaha operates at a scale that few mental health organisations in the country can match. Within this ecosystem, Amaha runs dedicated, evidence-based programmes for individuals with moderate to severe mental illnesses including those navigating alcohol addiction, combining psychiatric assessment, psychological intervention, and long-term recovery support. It is this combination of clinical breadth and specific expertise that made Amaha the natural home for ‘Off the Rocks’

“Addiction sits at the intersection of neuroscience, psychology, and lived experience, and it remains one of the most stigmatised and under-treated conditions we see. At Amaha, we approach it with the same clinical depth and compassion as every other mental health condition. ‘Off the Rocks’ gives this condition the visibility it deserves, and we’re here to make sure that visibility connects to credible, evidence-backed clinical information and trust-worthy professional support,” said Dr. Amit Malik, Founder & CEO, Amaha.

‘Off the Rocks’ will unfold as an ongoing, multi-format initiative anchored in Janhvi Kapoor’s voice and backed by Amaha’s clinical expertise. It will bring together expert-led conversations, personal stories, accessible explainers, and professional resources, all designed to do three things: build public understanding of alcohol addiction as a clinical condition, reduce the shame that prevents people from seeking help, and create clear pathways to evidence-based care.

The initiative is designed to be ongoing: not a single campaign, but a sustained effort to shift how alcohol use disorder is understood and spoken about in India. Every piece of content will be reviewed by Amaha’s team, ensuring accuracy, responsibility, and a consistent standard of care in how the subject is handled.

Also Read: Karan Johar to focus on in-house talent after Janhvi Kapoor’s exit from his talent management agency

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Photos: Subhash Ghai, Sukhwinder Singh, Sivamani launched Flutist Naveen Kumar’s book Journey of Bansuri

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Shabana Azmi calls Next of Kin story “Close to home,” highlights real-world themes

Veteran actor Shabana Azmi has spoken about her role in the British thriller Next of Kin, which also features Archie Panjabi in a central role. The series, set to stream on Lionsgate Play, explores how a family copes with grief, suspicion and cultural tensions in the aftermath of a tragedy.

Explaining her decision to take up the project, Azmi said the narrative resonated on a personal level. “This story is so close to home,” she said, adding that it reflects situations that feel grounded in reality. Emphasising the importance of confronting such themes, she noted, “You can’t push conflicts of this kind under the carpet. This drama shows what happens to human beings in these kinds of situations.” Azmi also shared how she joined the series, recalling that she was in London at the time she was approached for the role and came on board soon after meeting the director.

The show is led by Archie Panjabi, known for her work in international series such as The Good Wife, where she gained recognition for her performance. In Next of Kin, she plays a key character navigating the emotional and social fallout of a crisis that affects her family. Panjabi has described the project as both timely and layered, pointing to its exploration of identity, relationships and moral dilemmas.

The ensemble cast also includes actors such as Jack Davenport, Viveik Kalra and Navin Chowdhry, contributing to the multi-layered narrative.

With its emphasis on family dynamics and unresolved tensions, Next of Kin presents a character-driven story that looks at how individuals respond to loss, uncertainty and the pressures of circumstances beyond their control.

Also Read: Rhea Kapoor introduces Sonam Kapoor’s newborn :“All you need is… super human mom strength”

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Dhurandhar The Revenge Box Office: Ranveer Singh starrer has an EXCELLENT second MONDAY

It was an excellent Monday for Dhurandhar The Revenge as the collections continued to rage on. Even though this was a regular working day, the drop from Friday (Rs. 38 crores) was less than 50%. The collections stayed huge at Rs. 23 crores and that’s just unbelievable for 12th day of a film.

The Ranveer Singh starrer is continuing to find new audience base also for itself as those who had watched Dhurandhar on OTT are now also lining up to catch the second part in theatres first. That’s a real testimony of the kind of popularity that the film has gained firing last few months as a good segment of audiences is now not just willing to wait for its digital premiere and is happy to spend good money to check out this cinematic experience.

The film has now zoomed to Rs. 836 crores. Plus, the film has so much ammunition still left in it to score heavily with open weeks ahead as well. This means that it is set to go past the score of Dhurandhar (Rs. 896 crores), which currently holds the record of being the all-time highest grossing Hindi film.

Produced by Jio Studios and B62 Studios, Dhurandhar The Revenge stars Ranveer Singh, R Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, Rakesh Bedi, Sara Arjun, among others.

ALL TIME MEGA BLOCKBUSTER.

Note: All collections as per various box office sources

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Dhurandhar The Revenge surpasses Saiyaara in the UK, emerges among the top Indian grossers of all time

Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar The Revenge has added yet another feather to its already remarkable international run, this time in the United Kingdom, where the film has firmly established itself among the highest-grossing Indian titles of all time. According to the latest box office data, the film has collected a total of GBP 3,413,001 in the UK, placing it among the top performers in one of the most competitive overseas markets for Indian cinema.

What makes this achievement particularly significant is that Dhurandhar The Revenge has surpassed Saiyaara, which stands at GBP 3,214,252, thereby cementing its position ahead of one of the more prominent recent releases in the territory. The margin of nearly GBP 200,000 underscores not just a narrow overtake, but a clear lead, highlighting the film’s sustained theatrical pull weeks into its run.

The UK market, known for its strong and diverse South Asian diaspora, has traditionally been a battleground for major Indian releases, and Dhurandhar The Revenge’s performance here reflects both the strength of its franchise and the star power of Ranveer Singh. The film also comfortably outpaces Jawan (GBP 3,103,277) and the first installment, Dhurandhar (GBP 3,047,407), reinforcing the upward trajectory of the franchise in this key international territory.

At the top of the contemporary chart sits Pathaan with GBP 4,380,848, a figure that remains the benchmark for recent Indian releases in the UK. While Dhurandhar The Revenge falls short of that peak, it has nonetheless carved out a strong position just behind it, outperforming a wide range of major titles. Films like Dhoom 3 (GBP 2,710,319), Bajrangi Bhaijaan (GBP 2,662,115), and My Name Is Khan (GBP 2,626,809) now trail behind, further contextualizing the scale of its success.

Even globally celebrated hits such as Dangal (GBP 2,562,527), Animal (GBP 2,406,217), and PK (GBP 2,386,569) have been outgrossed by Dhurandhar The Revenge in the UK, signaling a shift in audience preference toward large-scale, high-concept entertainers that combine spectacle with franchise familiarity.

For the UK market, this performance once again highlights its importance as a cornerstone of overseas revenue for Indian cinema. The consistent turnout for big-ticket releases, especially those backed by strong branding and star appeal, continues to drive impressive box office numbers.

For Dhurandhar The Revenge, surpassing Saiyaara is more than just a statistical milestone it is a reflection of the film’s wider cultural and commercial resonance. In a market where competition is intense and audience expectations are high, the film has not only held its ground but surged ahead, reinforcing its status as one of the defining box office successes of the year.

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Sonam Kapoor and Anand Ahuja welcome second baby boy; announce arrival with heartfelt note

Actor Sonam Kapoor Ahuja and her husband Anand Ahuja have welcomed their second child, a baby boy, on March 29, 2026. The couple took to Instagram on Sunday to share the happy news with their followers and well-wishers.

The heartfelt message read, “With immense gratitude and hearts full of love, we are delighted to announce the arrival of our baby boy today, 29th of March 2026. Our family has grown, and with his arrival, our hearts have expanded in the most beautiful way. Vayu is overjoyed to welcome his little brother, and we feel deeply blessed by this precious new life who has filled our home with happiness and grace. We are grateful to begin this beautiful new chapter as a family of four”. They signed off by saying, “With love, Sonam, Anand & Vayu”.

Soon after the announcement, several members of the film industry flooded the comments section with congratulatory messages, including Kareena Kapoor Khan, Kajol, Bipasha Basu, Dia Mirza, Parineeti Chopra, Zoya Akhtar, Kajal Aggarwal, Huma Qureshi, Vaani Kapoor, and Richa Chadha, among others.

 

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For the unversed, Sonam and Anand’s relationship dates back to 2015, when they first connected through common friends. What began as a long-distance romance between Mumbai and London soon evolved into a strong partnership, culminating in their marriage on May 8, 2018, in a traditional Sikh ceremony in Mumbai, followed by a grand reception. The couple embraced parenthood for the first time in August 2022 with the birth of their son, Vayu Kapoor Ahuja.

On the work front, Sonam Kapoor Ahuja was last seen in Blind (2023), a remake of a 2011 Korean film of the same name. While she continues to make a strong presence on the fashion circuit, the actress is yet to announce her upcoming film projects.

Also Read: Sonam Kapoor drops posts about her baby shower: From her ethereal look to sacred and traditional ceremony, it was a celebration wrapped in love

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Haq director Suparn Varma on Yami Gautam’s character in Dhurandhar The Revenge named ‘Shazia Bano’: “It was very sweet and admirable of Aditya Dhar”

For Suparn S Varma, Yami Gautam Dhar’s cameo in Dhurandhar The Revenge turned out to be more than just a surprise appearance. While the film has been getting attention for its twists, one moment that stood out for audiences was Yami’s brief role as a nurse. What really caught everyone’s eye was her character’s name—Shazia Bano.

Sharing the story behind it, Suparn said, “Aditya had seen the cut of Haq, and after watching it, he told me there was a surprise he had just shot. I asked him what it was, and he said it’s in the last scene of Dhurandhar (The Revenge). I asked again, ‘What is it?’ and he said, ‘Yami’s character’. I asked, ‘What is Yami’s character?’ and he said, ‘Guess what—it’s a nameplate’. I started laughing because I thought we were tipping our hats to it, and I even joked, ‘Is she playing back Mama dressed as a nurse?’ He was laughing his head off and said, ‘She’s called Shazia Bano’.”

He further added, “That’s when I felt we really have a mutual admiration society. We genuinely love each other’s work. And yes, it was something very sweet and admirable that he did, I guess, for Yami’s dedication and passion while playing Shazia Bano in Haq.”

Haq has been receiving a lot of appreciation since its release, with many from the industry reaching out to Suparn to praise the film. Filmmaker Karan Johar also shared his thoughts, appreciating the way the film was directed and how the emotions were handled with restraint and depth. Actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Aditi Rao Hydari, Alia Bhatt, Karan Johar, Kiara Advani and many more have taken to social media to talk about the film.

With Haq continuing to receive love and Dhurandhar The Revenge creating buzz, this small but meaningful detail stands out as a thoughtful nod between filmmakers, one that reflects both respect and admiration.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Taran Adarsh compares Dhurandhar’s craze to Sholay; calls it “pathbreaking film that opens new doors”

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Dhurandhar The Revenge Box Office: Scores a RECORD BREAKING second Saturday, is BIGGER THAN SECOND SUNDAY of Pushpa 2 (Hindi) and Jawan

On its second Saturday, Dhurandhar had scored a huge half century with Rs. 53.70 crores, which was an all-time record. This was over and above Pushpa 2 (Hindi) which had just marginally missed a half century as it had stopped short at Rs. 46.50 crores. Now, within a matter of months, Dhurandhar – The Revenge has set a new all-time record for second Saturday. It has netted as huge as Rs. 57 crores, a number that has never ever been breached before by any film.

Wait, there is more. The number is even higher than the second Sunday of Pushpa 2 (Hindi) (Rs. 54 crores). This is such an unbelievable record as the big Sunday still awaits Dhurandhar The Revenge and whatever comes in today would be a new all-time record for second Sunday for any film in any language.

In the process, the Aditya Dhar film has now also entered the Rs. 700 Crore Club in just 10 days. In fact, it is now in touching distance to the milestone of Rs. 750 crores as its current collections stand at Rs. 747.50 crores. Today, the film is expected to enter the Rs. 800 Crore Club and by some stretch, it could even enter the Rs. 900 Crore Club by the time the second week comes to a close.

ALL TIME MEGA BLOCKBUSTER.

Note: All collections as per various box office sources

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Adivi Sesh on launching ‘Touch Buddy’ from Dacoit with Bhojpuri icon Pawan Singh in Gorakhpur, “I’ve always believed that cinema and music go beyond language”

Actor Adivi Sesh created a wave of excitement in Gorakhpur as he joined hands with Bhojpuri superstar Pawan Singh to launch their much-awaited groovy track ‘Touch Buddy’ from his upcoming film Dacoit. Marking a historic first, a Telugu superstar and a Bhojpuri icon shared the stage together, delivering a high-energy musical collaboration that has already begun trending across platforms. The grand launch event witnessed an overwhelming turnout, with massive crowds gathering to catch a glimpse of the two stars, turning the occasion into a celebratory spectacle.

The electrifying atmosphere in Gorakhpur reflected the growing buzz around ‘Touch Buddy’, a song that blends regional influences with a contemporary, foot-tapping vibe. Adding to its wide appeal, the track has also been released in Telugu, ensuring it resonates with audiences across regions and languages. Fans were seen cheering, dancing, and celebrating the collaboration, underlining the song’s instant connect and viral potential.

For Adivi Sesh, the response was nothing short of emotional. With his upcoming film Dacoit gearing up for its release on April 10, the actor expressed how the love from North Indian audiences has further strengthened his confidence and excitement.

Sharing his thoughts, Adivi Sesh said, “Launching ‘Touch Buddy’ in Gorakhpur with Pawan Singh ji has been an incredibly special experience. The energy of the crowd was simply unforgettable. I’ve always believed that cinema and music go beyond language, and seeing a Telugu actor and a Bhojpuri superstar come together and receive so much love proves just that. The response from the audience here has truly overwhelmed me and boosted my confidence, especially with Dacoit releasing on April 10. I’m grateful that the North Indian audience has embraced this collaboration with so much warmth.”

The collaboration between Adivi Sesh and Pawan Singh stands as a testament to the growing Pan-India appeal of regional artists coming together to create something fresh and exciting. As ‘Touch Buddy’ continues to trend and win hearts, all eyes are now on Dacoit, with fans eagerly awaiting to see Sesh on the big screen once again.

Also Read: ‘Touch Buddy’ from Dacoit out now: Pawan Singh, Jonita Gandhi and Adivi Sesh bring high energy dance track to life

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Mercy first glimpse releases with Dhurandhar The Revenge ahead of April 24 theatrical debut

Mercy, starring Raj Vasudeva and Adil Hussain, is set to unveil its first glimpse in theatres on March 27 alongside Dhurandhar The Revenge. The film will release nationwide on April 24 after a widely noted run across international film festivals.

Directed by Mitul Patel, the drama explores the subject of passive euthanasia through the story of a family confronting emotional and legal questions around end-of-life decisions. The film arrives at a time when discussions around dignity in terminal care have drawn renewed public attention following the Supreme Court of India’s recent decision permitting passive euthanasia in the case of Harish Rana, who had remained in a vegetative state for more than 13 years.

Speaking about the film, Raj Vasudeva said, “Bringing Mercy to the big screen feels like the culmination of a deeply personal journey. This film is incredibly close to my heart because it explores the quiet, often ignored strength of a family in crisis. While I am profoundly moved by the immense appreciation we’ve received, the real reward is seeing how Shekhar’s story has touched hearts everywhere. I am filled with excitement to finally share this labor of love with the audience.”

Adil Hussain described the film as an emotionally layered experience that reflects larger questions about dignity and compassion.

“For me, Mercy is more than just a cinematic project; it is a significant reflection on the human condition and the dignity we all deserve. Watching the film gather such immense gratitude and appreciation has been heartening. It proves that stories told with such raw honesty have a universal language. As we approach our theatrical release, my sentiment is one of pure anticipation for the audience to experience this journey,” he said.

Director Mitul Patel also reflected on the responsibility of telling a story centred on a sensitive subject.

“As a filmmaker, telling a story like Mercy felt like a soul-deep responsibility. To have our vision embraced on so many prestigious global platforms is overwhelming, but the true importance of this film lies in its message of compassion and ‘letting go.’ The journey from the international circuit to a nationwide release on April 24 has been a whirlwind of emotions, and I am eager to see how it resonates at home,” he said.

The film has received recognition across several international festivals. It won Best International Feature Film at the London Independent International Film Festival and earned awards for Best Actor for Raj Vasudeva and Best Debutante Director for Mitul Patel at the Jaipur International Film Festival.

In addition, Mercy has been screened at the Chicago South Asian Film Festival, the UK Asian Film Festival and the Indian International Film Festival of Stuttgart, contributing to its growing international profile ahead of its India release.

Along with Raj Vasudeva and Adil Hussain, the film also features Niharica Raizada, Aparna Ghoshal and Kunal Bhan in key roles.

Also Read: Adil Hussain replaces Milind Soman in Anshuman Jha’s Lakadbaggha 2: The Monkey Business

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Dhurandhar The Revenge Box Office: Has a BUMPER START to second week, crosses Rs. 40 crores mark again

In the times when films have struggled to cross Rs. 40 crores mark on their very first day, Dhurandhar The Revenge has done the unthinkable. It has scored Rs. 41.5 crores on its second Friday. Yes, you read it right. This is the ninth full day for the film and still it has loaded so much ammunition that there is no stopping it. Well, at least as yet!

The film has continued with huge showcasing in the second week as well and with huge interest amongst the audiences to check it out only in theatres, the footfalls are just not subsiding. Partial holidays through the week have further helped the film sustain very good momentum, as a result of which the numbers are coming across as extraordinary. This is now also the best second Friday by a distance as Dhurandhar (Rs. 34.70 crores) and Pushpa 2 (Hindi) (Rs. 27.50 crores) have been left really far behind.

What would be really interesting to see from hereon is the kind of jump that the film sees today and tomorrow. While Rs. 50 crores would be comfortably crossed today, what would be of utmost interest is to see whether Rs. 75 crores milestone is breached tomorrow. No film has ever done that in history with the maximum being Rs. 58.20 crores score by Dhurandhar on its second Sunday. Chances are that the Aditya Dhar film will accomplish this on its second Saturday itself which means bigger records are up for grabs by Dhurandhar The Revenge as it adds on to Rs. 690.5 crores that it has collected in its Hindi version so far.

ALL TIME MEGA BLOCKBUSTER.

Note: All collections as per various box office sources

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Mahesh Bhatt pens heartfelt note for Mohit Suri, calls success “The journey”

Actor-filmmaker Pooja Bhatt has shared an emotional note written by her father, veteran director Mahesh Bhatt, praising the journey of filmmaker Mohit Suri.

The note reflects Mahesh Bhatt’s admiration for Suri’s growth in the industry, particularly highlighting his evolution as a storyteller. In the message, Bhatt wrote, “Success is not the destination, it is the journey,” underlining his belief that Suri’s achievements go beyond box office numbers. He further acknowledged the filmmaker’s persistence, stating, “You have walked a long road… and the road has shaped you,” pointing to the struggles and experiences that have defined Suri’s career.

Sharing the note publicly, Pooja Bhatt drew attention to the emotional weight of her father’s words, which also carried a tone of mentorship. Mahesh Bhatt added in his message, “Do not be afraid of failure,” encouraging Suri to continue taking creative risks despite the pressures of success. He also reflected on the nature of artistic growth, writing, “The hunger to express must never die,” suggesting that longevity in cinema depends on an artist’s ability to stay creatively driven.

The note is being seen as both a personal and professional endorsement, especially given the long-standing association between the Bhatt family and Mohit Suri. Over the years, Suri has directed several films backed by the Bhatt camp, carving a distinct space for himself within the industry. Pooja Bhatt’s decision to share the note has sparked conversation around mentorship and legacy in Bollywood, with Mahesh Bhatt’s words offering insight into how he views success, failure and artistic identity.

Also Read: Mahesh Bhatt defends Rahul Roy lip-syncing at a Bihar wedding: “If today’s stars dance at weddings for millions, why can’t Rahul stand for a moment the nation still remembers?”

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Aamir Khan reveals he always planned OTT release for Sitaare Zameen Par after theatrical run

Aamir Khan has said that he always intended for Sitaare Zameen Par to arrive on streaming platforms, even though he initially wanted a longer theatrical window before its digital premiere. The actor confirmed that the film will begin streaming on SonyLIV on April 3.

Speaking to Press Trust of India, Aamir said, “I was never in two minds. I always wanted an OTT release, but not so quickly after the theatre release. So it is now coming on SonyLIV on April 3, and I want audiences all across the country to enjoy the film. Those who have not got a chance to see it in theatres can now watch it on SonyLIV.”

Documentary on parents of neurodivergent actors to stream alongside the film

In addition to the feature film, SonyLIV will also premiere a documentary titled Sitaaron Ke Sitaare. The project focuses on the real-life parents of the neurodivergent actors who appear in Sitaare Zameen Par and explores their journeys and experiences.

Explaining the idea behind the documentary, Aamir said, “It’s a very special piece of content because it looks at the real superstars. The Sitaare are the superstars, but the real-life superstars are the parents of these 10 artists who have raised them and taken care of them. So that film really highlights the fact that the parents are the real superstars.”

The actor shared these updates while attending the red carpet at the inaugural International Film Festival Delhi held in Delhi.

Earlier decision to avoid a traditional OTT deal drew attention

The announcement of the SonyLIV release comes months after Aamir had publicly stated that he would not follow the usual OTT route immediately after the theatrical run of Sitaare Zameen Par. In July last year, he revealed plans to release the film on his YouTube channel, Aamir Khan Talkies, on a pay-per-view basis priced at Rs 100.

At the time, he also confirmed turning down an offer reportedly worth Rs 125 crore for the film’s OTT rights. Explaining his reasoning, Aamir had said he preferred connecting directly with audiences rather than opting for a large platform deal.

“I don’t want Rs. 125 crore from OTT platforms. I want Rs. 100 from the aam junta of our country,” he had said, expressing confidence in the pay-per-view model and in the audience’s support for the film.

Also Read: Aamir Khan, RS Prasanna to interact with children at IFFD 2026 after Sitaare Zameen Par screening

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Jio Studios scores a historic hat-trick with third consecutive Rs. 500 crore blockbuster year on year

In an industry where consistency at the top is rare, Jio Studios has delivered a phenomenal milestone of three Rs. 500 crore net grossers and the biggest films of past three consecutive years, cementing its position as the most eminent Indian film studio.

With Stree 2, the studio redefined the ceiling for Hindi cinema in 2024. The film mounted an extraordinary box office run, storming past the Rs. 500 crore India net mark in just 18 days, driven by exceptional word-of-mouth and strong repeat footfalls. The film continued its historic run and, within just over a month of release it also, crossed the Rs. 600 crore milestone becoming the first Hindi film to achieve this feat in a single language.

Building on this momentum, Jio Studios continued its dominant run in 2025 with Dhurandhar. The film took the box office by storm, racing past the Rs. 500 crore mark in just 15 days to emerge as the fastest film to do so. There-on the film kept growing, continuing to draw full houses across markets, with strong repeat viewership driving its numbers. It went on to enjoy a 100-day theatrical run, underlining its sustained popularity.

Now, carrying the baton forward in 2026, Dhurandhar The Revenge has opened to an extraordinary response. Taking the box office by storm, the film has already crossed the Rs. 500 crore net mark within just its first week and is in for the long haul, marking Jio Studios’ third consecutive entry into the Rs. 500 crore club. The film’s success is massive across India, with phenomenal footfalls and sustained momentum.

Globally too, it is registering exceptional numbers, and with its current trajectory, the film is set to deliver truly unprecedented box office milestones.

Under the leadership of Jyoti Deshpande, the studio has cemented its position as a formidable powerhouse backing stories that are bold in vision and massive in ambition. With a sharp instinct for identifying varied narratives, it continues to greenlight projects that don’t just push creative boundaries, but redefine them consistently, translating scale into success and setting new benchmarks for the industry.

Also Read: Aamir Khan BREAKS silence on Dhurandhar The Revenge; says, “I haven’t seen the film yet but…”

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Aamir Khan BREAKS silence on Dhurandhar The Revenge; says, “I haven’t seen the film yet but…”

Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan has shared his thoughts on the success of the Dhurandhar: The Revenge, expressing admiration for the film’s performance at the box office and the strong reception it has garnered from audiences.

In a recent interaction with news agency ANI, Aamir acknowledged the growing popularity of the Dhurandhar franchise, which has emerged as a major commercial force in recent times. While the actor admitted that he is yet to watch the latest installment, he emphasized the overwhelmingly positive feedback the film has been receiving across the industry.

“I believe it’s doing really well. I have not seen the film yet. But I hear only praises of the film. Dhurandhar 1 and now Dhurandhar 2. Both the films have done exceptionally well and my very best wishes to the team,” Aamir said.

The actor’s comments come at a time when Dhurandhar: The Revenge is enjoying a strong run in theatres, with trade analysts noting its impressive box-office performance despite its lengthy runtime. The film, a sequel to the successful Dhurandhar, has managed to sustain audience interest and build on the goodwill of its predecessor.

Aamir’s endorsement, even without having watched the film, reflects the strong industry buzz surrounding the project. Known for his keen eye for cinema and selective approach to films, his acknowledgment adds further credibility to the franchise’s growing stature.

On the work front, Aamir is looking forward to his next production Lahore 1947, which will release in theatres on August 13. Directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, the film stars Sunny Deol, Shabana Azmi, Preity Zinta, Ali Fazal among others.

Also Read: Dhurandhar: The Revenge Box Office: Jio Studios’ Ranveer Singh starrer crosses the Rs. 1000 crore mark worldwide, emerges as a global blockbuster

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Made In Korea, Border 2 and Dhurandhar claim top 3 spots in Netflix’s global Top 10 non-English titles

Indian films have registered a significant global milestone on Netflix, with titles across Hindi and Tamil languages securing the top three positions on the platform’s Global Top 10 Films (Non-English) chart in a standout week.

The Tamil film Made In Korea leads the rankings at No. 1, followed by Hindi titles Border 2 at No. 2 and Dhurandhar at No. 3. Another Tamil film, With Love, also features on the list at No. 7. The feat marks one of the strongest weekly performances for Indian cinema on the global streaming chart.

This upward trajectory has been building over time. Several Indian films, including Haq, Saiyaara, Jolly LLB and Baramulla, have recorded multi-week runs on the Global Top 10 chart. At the same time, titles like Inspector Zende and the Tamil film Idli Kadai have trended in more than 15 countries, reflecting consistent international traction. In another milestone, Accused, starring Konkona Sen Sharma and Pratibha Ranta, became the first Indian film to reach audiences in 72 countries during its launch week. Meanwhile, the Gujarati-language horror film Vash Level 2 emerged as a breakout success, trending in the Top 10 across eight countries.

The achievement reflects the growing international reach of Indian storytelling, with audiences across regions increasingly engaging with films beyond language barriers. Holding the top three spots signals a sustained and expanding global interest in Indian films across genres and industries. The broader data underlines a sustained shift in global viewing patterns. Since July 2021, the number of Indian titles, across films and series, featured in Netflix’s Global Top 10 has increased nearly six-fold. Notably, at least one Indian title has appeared in the chart every week since 2024.

Also Read: Netflix and Amazon taught India to binge and Dhurandhar 2 taught Bollywood how to cash in on it

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Is Dhurandhar now bigger than every franchise Bollywood has produced? The numbers scream yes

The Dhurandhar franchise has officially emerged as the biggest franchise in Bollywood at the India box office. Bollywood Hungama’s franchise rankings already place Dhurandhar at No. 1 with a combined India net total of Rs. 1338.96 crore, made up of Dhurandhar’s Rs. 895.96 crore and Dhurandhar The Revenge’s Rs. 503 crore haul.

In other words, the series has not just taken the top spot, but has strengthened its lead within 24 hours of the weekend ending. The significance of this number becomes clearer when one looks at the competition. The Pushpa franchise stands at Rs. 938.36 crore, while the Tiger franchise has collected Rs. 823.46 crore in India. That means Dhurandhar is now ahead of Pushpa by Rs. 460.60 crore and ahead of Tiger by a staggering Rs. 575.50 crore. These are not marginal leads; these are commanding gaps.

What makes the feat even more remarkable is the internal split of the franchise total. The first part, Dhurandhar, had already laid a historic foundation with Rs. 895.96 crore, a number that on its own is bigger than the entire lifetime collections of several major franchises. The sequel, meanwhile, has added Rs. 503 crore in just 5 days, which means it has already contributed more than 56% of the first film’s lifetime business in less than a week.

From a trade point of view, the story is simple: Dhurandhar is no longer merely a successful franchise; it is now the benchmark franchise in Hindi cinema. With Rs. 1398.96 crore India net and counting, and the sequel still in full flight, the franchise has set a new bar for Bollywood brands. And going by the current trend, this total is only going to move further north in the days to come.

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Nupur Sanon and Stebin Ben share dreamy honeymoon pics from Finland; couple seals romance under Northern Lights

Actor Nupur Sanon and singer Stebin Ben are serving major couple goals as they soak in the magic of their honeymoon in Lapland. The newlyweds recently took to Instagram to share a series of breathtaking pictures, capturing an intimate moment as they shared a romantic kiss under the stunning green hues of the Aurora Borealis.

Captioning their post with the line, “If there’s magic anywhere in the world, it’s here… with you,” the couple instantly sent fans into a frenzy. The dreamy visuals, combined with the heartfelt sentiment, quickly went viral, with several members of the film and music fraternity showering them with love. Among those reacting were Varun Sharma and Prakriti Kakar, who dropped affectionate messages and emojis celebrating the couple’s romantic getaway.

Nupur and Stebin’s journey from friendship to marriage has been one that quietly unfolded over the years. The two reportedly met in 2021 through shared musical interests and were often seen together at social gatherings, though they maintained a “best friends” stance in the public eye even as speculation about their relationship grew.

Their love story took a decisive turn on January 3, 2026, when Stebin Ben proposed to Nupur during a picturesque yacht setup, a moment the actor later described as the “easiest yes” of her life. Nupur had also credited her sister, Kriti Sanon, for playing a key role in bringing their families on board during the early stages of their relationship.

 

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The couple tied the knot on January 11, 2026, in an intimate yet grand celebration at Raffles Udaipur. Their wedding festivities spanned three days and beautifully blended traditions, featuring both a white Christian ceremony and a traditional Hindu wedding. The celebrations concluded with a star-studded reception in Mumbai, with the duo dressed in custom ensembles by renowned designer Manish Malhotra.

On the professional front, Nupur Sanon has been steadily carving her niche in the entertainment industry with projects like the web-series Pop Kaun? and Ravi Teja starrer Tiger Nageswara Rao. Meanwhile, Stebin Ben continues to dominate the music space with chart-topping singles and is gearing up for a multi-city concert tour later this year.

With their latest honeymoon pictures, the couple has once again captured the imagination of fans, turning a private moment into a viral celebration of love set against one of nature’s most magical backdrops.

Also Read: Kriti Sanon saying “My little one is married” in emotional post-wedding note for Nupur Sanon will melt your heart!

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Divyanka Tripathi flaunts baby bump on fun day out with Shraddha Arya; Vivek Dahiya joins them

Television favourites Divyanka Tripathi and Shraddha Arya recently treated fans to a series of heartwarming moments from their afternoon get-together, and the internet can’t get enough. The two actors, showcased their strong off-screen bond as they reunited for a relaxed girls’ day out that quickly turned into a viral moment on social media.

Adding to the charm of the outing was Vivek Dahiya, who accompanied his wife Divyanka. The soon-to-be parents, who recently announced that they are expecting their first child, seemed to be enjoying a quiet and joyful phase as they spent quality time with Shraddha.

The pictures shared online capture a perfect blend of friendship, laughter, and warmth. Divyanka looked radiant as she embraced her pregnancy glow in a breezy, sky-blue kaftan-style tunic featuring delicate silver embroidery along the neckline. Paired with silver loafers, her look struck the perfect balance between comfort and understated elegance, as she proudly flaunted her baby bump.

On the other hand, Shraddha Arya opted for a stylish yet practical ensemble, donning a mint-green maxi dress with spaghetti straps, complemented by a matching neck scarf. She accessorised her outfit with a black fanny pack and white pointed-toe flats with bow detailing, effortlessly blending chic aesthetics with everyday functionality.

Beyond the fashion, what truly stood out was the emotional connect between the two friends. Shraddha, who has been actively sharing glimpses of her own motherhood journey with her twins, appeared to be offering guidance and support to Divyanka during this special phase.

Sharing glimpses from their afternoon, Shraddha captioned her post, “Afternoons like these… old friends, little ones, and love growing in the most beautiful way. So special catching up with you both… can’t wait to meet your little miracle soon @divyankatripathidahiya @vivekdahiya…”

 

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Divyanka was quick to respond with equal warmth, commenting, “Third one is my favourite most picture! Was delightful catching up with you and truly value your words of wisdom that come from experience mommy senior!”

In another post, Divyanka too shared unseen moments from this outing and captioned it saying, “Not chasing moments anymore… Living them.” Responding to it, Shraddha shared, “Loved the time we spent together today with so many babies “IN” & around”.

 

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For the uninitiated, Divyanka and Vivek’s love story began on the sets of Yeh Hai Mohabbatein, after which they tied the knot on July 8, 2016. Earlier this month, the couple delighted fans by announcing that they are expecting their first child.

As these candid moments continue to circulate online, fans are celebrating not just the stylish outing, but also the beautiful friendship and the new beginnings it represents.

Also Read: Photos: Mouni Roy, Divyanka Tripathi and others turn showstoppers at Bombay Times Fashion Week 2025

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