Rajinikanth recalls Amitabh Bachchan working 18 hours a day to repay Rs 90 crores debt: “People in the Bombay industry again laughed seeing this”

Rajinikanth and Amitabh Bachchan have shared screen space in films such as Andhaa Kanoon (1983), Geraftaar (1985) and Hum (1991). After a gap of 33 years, the two actors reunited for TJ Gnanavel’s Vettaiyan, which was released in 2024. During the film’s audio launch event, Rajinikanth spoke about a difficult phase in Amitabh Bachchan’s life, recalling how the veteran actor worked long hours to overcome a financial crisis.

At the height of his career, Amitabh Bachchan ventured into the business world by establishing Amitabh Bachchan Corporation Limited (ABCL). However, the company reportedly faced significant financial difficulties, leaving the actor with debts of approximately Rs 90 crores. According to Rajinikanth’s account, the situation forced Amitabh to sell his home in Juhu and other properties in Mumbai as he worked towards clearing his outstanding dues.

Recalling how Amitabh Bachchan dealt with the crisis, Rajinikanth said that the actor continued working despite facing several health challenges. He also spoke about how people in the Bombay film industry reacted to the situation at the time.

Rajinikanth said, “People in the Bombay industry again laughed seeing this. For three years, despite having many health issues, he worked for 18 hours a day and cleared all his dues. Just 3 years, 64 years of age, 1000 problems in the body. Not just that he bought back the old house, he bought a total of three houses in that same lane. Paid back all debts. That’s Amitabh Bachchan!”

That Is #AmitabhBachchan
Haters in Mumbai Laughed at AB, Saying “He’s Doing Ads For Money”
Just 3 years… Age 64 1000 Problems in the body… He Worked 18 hours per day & Paid All Debt
Brought the same house & 3 more on the same road.
~ #Rajinikanth ji https://t.co/bHZf7HmqJk

— 𝐒ʜᴀɴɪ 𝐘ᴀᴅᴀᴠ (@JrYadav1409) October 13, 2026

The recollection highlighted Amitabh Bachchan’s efforts to rebuild his financial standing after the setback. Rajinikanth also referred to the actor as his mentor when the two reunited for Vettaiyan after more than three decades.

In 2024, Rajinikanth had shared a picture with Amitabh Bachchan and expressed his happiness about working with him again. He wrote, “After 33 years, I am working again with my mentor, the phenomenon, Shri Amitabh Bachchan in the upcoming Lyca’s Thalaivar 170 directed by T J Gnanavel. My heart is thumping with joy.”

The film, initially referred to as Thalaivar 170, was later titled Vettaiyan. Produced by Subaskaran’s Lyca Productions, the film featured Rajinikanth as the lead, with Amitabh Bachchan playing Sathyadev. The cast also included Ritika Singh, Dushara Vijayan, Manju Warrier, Rana Daggubati and Fahadh Faasil. The film was released in theatres on October 10, 2024.

Meanwhile, Amitabh Bachchan was last seen in Kalki 2898 AD, alongside Prabhas, Deepika Padukone and Kamal Haasan.

Also Read : Rajinikanth starrer Jailer 2 gets U/A 16+ certificate, runtime revealed ahead of October 15 release

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Ishqa Ishqa Part 2 Promo Out: Helly Shah, Satyajeet Dubey and Anushka Kaushik return for the next chapter

Prime Video has unveiled the promo of Ishqa Ishqa Part 2, the next instalment of its romantic thriller that explores the complex dynamics of love, obsession and control. Written by Rajesh Bachchani and directed by Amit Kumar Jha, the series features Helly Shah, Satyajeet Dubey and Anushka Kaushik in pivotal roles. The show is produced by Moving Images Studios Pvt. Ltd.

The newly released promo raises questions about Suhani’s (Anushka Kaushik) identity and the secrets she has been keeping. Arohi (Helly Shah) suspects that Suhani is hiding a truth from those around her, prompting Kabir (Satyajeet Dubey) to take up the challenge of uncovering it. However, while Suhani attempts to prevent Kabir from finding out her secret, she is also searching for answers of her own.

The situation takes a turn when Kabir does the unthinkable and breaks the terms of The Dare, crossing a boundary that has never been crossed before. His decision sets off a chain of events that threatens to change the course of the story. With questions surrounding Suhani’s past and identity still unanswered, the promo hints at a new development that could alter the dynamics between the characters.

 

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As Kabir remains unaware of Suhani’s true identity, Ishqa Ishqa Part 2 promises to take the story forward with a twist that could change how the relationships between its central characters are perceived.

Ishqa Ishqa Part 2 will soon be available to stream for free on Prime Video and the MX Player Android app, which has been refreshed with a new identity, MX Player by Prime Video. The free, ad-supported streaming service is available across mobile devices, Connected TVs, the Amazon shopping app, Prime Video and Fire TV.

Also Read : Prime Video’s MX Original Ishqa Ishqa explores a dark world of love, obsession and control; trailer out

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Street Fighter: Jason Momoa, Noah Centineo and Andrew Koji bring childhood gaming memories to the big screen

For the cast and director of Street Fighter, the upcoming big-screen adaptation of the iconic CAPCOM video game is a chance to bring a childhood favourite to life. Jason Momoa, Noah Centineo, Andrew Koji and director Kitao Sakurai have opened up about their personal connections to the franchise, sharing how their experiences as fans influenced their approach to the film.

Set to release in Indian cinemas on October 16, Street Fighter will arrive in English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu. The film brings the world of the long-running fighting game to the big screen, with its makers aiming to appeal to longtime fans as well as audiences discovering the franchise for the first time.

The game has held a special place in the lives of its cast and director. Koji, who plays Ryu, was born in 1987, the year the first Street Fighter game was released, and grew up playing its subsequent versions. Centineo, who portrays Ken Masters, recalled spending hours at his cousins’ basement arcade cabinet, where Blanka was his character of choice. For Sakurai, who grew up as a half-Japanese child in Ohio, Ryu was the first fictional character he encountered who reflected his identity.

Speaking about the personal significance of directing the adaptation, Sakurai said, “As a Japanese – American filmmaker, to have the honour to do Street Fighter makes me feel incredibly proud. To be able to incorporate the feelings I had as a child, to be able to bring to life the aspects of the game that as a fan, you felt in your heart, is exactly what I hope the movie captures. We’re excited that this is the most accurate Street Fighter adaptation ever made, in terms of the fighting styles, the moves, the costumes and the tone and spirit of the characters.”

Sakurai also highlighted the film’s visuals and soundtrack, describing the experience as immersive. Momoa, who plays Blanka and also serves as a producer, said the film aims to deliver an entertaining experience for audiences across generations. “Street Fighter will make you laugh, and cry, and have a really great time. This is my childhood. Street Fighter was everything growing up. For existing fans, and new fans, it’s such a diverse world and cast – there’s something for everyone in it.”

Koji acknowledged the responsibility of adapting a franchise with a dedicated fan base, saying, “We all wanted to make sure that not only can we get new fans to love it, but the hardcore fans too. There are so many nods we put in there and we’re bringing a Street Fighter film that has never been done before and hopefully will be remembered for a long time to come.”

Centineo, meanwhile, emphasised the scale of the action and the importance of experiencing the film on a large screen. “It’s a huge movie. It is so visually stimulating that seeing that on a huge screen is the way to see it. The fights are sweaty, and bloody, you want to see that huge, and the sound design – the seats are going to shake.”

Set in 1993, the film follows estranged Street Fighters Ryu and Ken Masters as they are drawn back into combat when the mysterious Chun-Li, played by Callina Liang, recruits them for the next World Warrior Tournament. What begins as a brutal contest of fists and fate soon becomes entangled in a deadly conspiracy, forcing the fighters to confront each other and the demons of their past.

A Legendary Pictures production in association with CAPCOM, Street Fighter is directed by Kitao Sakurai and produced by Mary Parent, Cale Boyter, Jason Momoa, Takayuki Nakayama and Stefan Makhoul. The film will release in Indian cinemas on Friday, October 16, 2026, in English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.

Also Read: Street Fighter event: Vidyut Jammwal praises Hollywood work culture: “Jason Momoa, 50 Cent, Cody Rhodes don’t know the meaning of being late…if you’re 1 minute late, they ask, ‘Are you in the hospital?’”

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Ramayana: Anupam Kher lends his voice to Jatayu as makers unveil new poster titled ‘The Wings of Dharma’

The makers of Ramayana have unveiled a new character poster featuring Jatayu, the revered bird known for his courage and sacrifice in the epic. Titled The Wings of Dharma, the latest reveal also confirms that veteran actor Anupam Kher lends his voice to the character in director Nitesh Tiwari’s upcoming two-part cinematic adaptation of the Indian epic.

The poster offers a close-up of Jatayu, with his intense gaze taking centre stage, alongside another visual of the majestic bird with his wings spread wide. The reveal highlights the character’s resolve and his willingness to stand up against evil, even when faced with a formidable opponent.

Sharing the poster on social media, the makers wrote, “When evil took flight, courage rose to meet it. He fought not for victory, but for what was right. Jatayu. The Wings of Dharma. Anupam Kher as Jatayu in Ramayana.”

In the Ramayana, Jatayu plays a pivotal role when he attempts to rescue Sita from Ravana after the latter abducts her. Despite knowing the risks, the bird confronts Ravana in an effort to stop him, making his actions a defining example of courage, duty and sacrifice. Anupam Kher’s voice brings the character to the screen as the film continues to introduce audiences to key figures from the epic.

The Jatayu poster is the latest in a series of character reveals through which the makers have been offering glimpses of the film’s principal characters. The ambitious adaptation stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Hanuman and Ravi Dubey as Lakshman.

Produced by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios in collaboration with DNEG and Yash’s Monster Mind Creations, Ramayana is envisioned as a two-part cinematic saga. The first instalment is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on November 5, 2026, while Part 2 is slated to arrive during Diwali 2027.

 

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The film will release in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam, with an IMAX release also planned. Sony Pictures will handle international distribution outside India, while Dharma Productions will distribute the film in the Hindi-speaking market.

With the latest reveal, the makers have brought another significant figure from the epic into focus, underscoring Jatayu’s place in the story as a symbol of courage and dharma.

Also Read: Ramayana: Lara Dutta as Queen Kaikeyi and Sheeba Chadha as Manthara unveiled in new character posters

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Tamannaah Bhatia attends Mata Ki Chowki on first day of Navratri; shares experience saying, “Five hours of music, prayer and surrender”

Tamannaah Bhatia marked the beginning of Navratri celebrations by attending a Mata Ki Chowki at an acquaintance’s residence. The actress took to Instagram to share glimpses of the devotional gathering, including moments from the aarti, guests dancing to bhajans and singers leading the prayers. Among the videos shared by Tamannaah was one featuring her joining the chorus alongside actress Mrunal Thakur.

The gathering saw Tamannaah participate in the celebrations, as she shared photographs and videos capturing the devotional atmosphere. Alongside the visuals, the actress penned a note expressing gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the ceremony. Her post also offered a glimpse into her evolving relationship with spirituality, a subject she has spoken about in recent months.

In her Instagram note, Tamannaah wrote, “Through soaring bhajans, stories of Maa and a vivid journey through the mountains to Vaishno Devi, @preetypathania15 makes you experience devotion, not just hear it. With every song, every story and every beat, you can almost feel the climb, the sacred paths unfolding and the pilgrimage carrying you deeper within.”

She further reflected on the experience of being immersed in music and prayer, describing how the energy of the gathering also created a sense of calm and introspection. “There’s something beautiful about this duality. The music rises, the energy moves through the room and the atmosphere pulses with devotion – yet, somewhere within, a deep stillness begins to unfold. All that sound and movement draw you inward, guiding you back to your centre, back to yourself. Five hours of music, prayer and surrender that felt like a single, timeless moment. Jai Mata Di,” she added.

 

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Tamannaah’s participation in the ceremony comes after she spoke about her spiritual journey in connection with The Vvaan, the Indian mythology-inspired fantasy drama. The actress had also opened up about the Chhath Puja ceremony following her shoot for the film, offering insights into how her professional experiences have brought her closer to exploring religious and spiritual traditions.

Her latest post captures another such experience, with the actress sharing moments of prayer, music and celebration as devotees came together for Mata Ki Chowki during the Navratri festivities.

Meanwhile, Tamannaah continues to balance her professional commitments with personal interests, with her latest social media update offering followers a glimpse of a devotional gathering that she described as a deeply meaningful experience.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Tamannaah Bhatia reveals she is ‘extremely spiritual’: “My personal journey has been from a believer to a spiritual person”

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Ranveer Singh dances Garba with Nita Ambani at Swadesh Eros party

Ranveer Singh attended the Swadesh Eros party hosted by Nita Ambani in Mumbai on October 10. Several pictures and videos from the star-studded gathering have surfaced on social media, offering a glimpse into the evening. One of the videos that caught attention featured Ranveer performing garba with Nita Ambani, with Isha Ambani and other guests also joining the traditional dance.

The actor, who is gearing up for his upcoming projects, appeared to enjoy the festivities. In the video, Ranveer was seen dancing alongside Nita Ambani, making the moment one of the highlights of the celebration. The gathering brought together several personalities from the film and fashion industries.

For the occasion, Ranveer opted for a pink traditional ensemble. He wore a pink jacket featuring floral embroidery over a matching kurta, paired with white trousers. Tinted sunglasses and diamond studs completed his look. The actor was also seen interacting with Kriti Sanon and Sara Ali Khan in other pictures from the event. Social media personality Orry also featured Ranveer in a reel shared online.

 

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Hosted by Nita Ambani, the celebration marked the first anniversary of Swadesh Eros, a Reliance Foundation initiative dedicated to promoting India’s traditional arts, crafts and handloom heritage. The event also celebrated the spirit of Devi Shakti ahead of Navratri, bringing together guests for an evening centred on Indian culture and traditions.

Apart from Ranveer, the guest list included Aamir Khan, Rashmika Mandanna, Gauri Khan, Kriti Sanon, Sara Ali Khan, Shanaya Kapoor, Maheep Kapoor, Manish Malhotra and Aditi Rao Hydari, among others. Pictures and videos from the gathering have since offered glimpses of the guests enjoying the celebration.

On the personal front, Ranveer and his wife, actor Deepika Padukone, recently welcomed their second child, a baby girl, on September 19, 2026. The couple are also parents to their daughter, Dua Padukone Singh, who was born on September 8, 2024. The arrival of their second child has expanded their family to four.

Also Read : Vijay Deverakonda reveals Dhurandhar songs are popular in South India; says that they are ‘played in gyms’

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Anand Kumar recalls former student Bidur Kant Jha’s journey from financial hardship to becoming the Director at the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways

Anand Kumar, founder of the Super 30 educational initiative, recently shared the story of his former student Bidur Kant Jha, who overcame financial difficulties to become the Director in the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India. The educator took to social media to reflect on Jha’s journey and the bond they have maintained over the past three decades.

Recalling their first meeting, Kumar spoke about how Jha had approached him years ago with dreams of pursuing an education but lacked the financial means to do so. The educator said he had encouraged the young student to focus on working hard rather than worrying about money.

Sharing the story on social media, Anand Kumar wrote, “Today, I received a call from my former student, Bidur Kant Jha, and it brought back memories from 30 years ago. Once, there was a boy standing at my door. He had dreams in his eyes, but no money to pursue his education. I told him, ‘Don’t worry about the money, just work hard.’ Bidur fought against adversity and changed his destiny. Today, he is a Director in the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India. What makes me happiest is that despite reaching such great heights, he has not forgotten his old teacher. This is a teacher’s true reward! Two photographs, one from 30 years ago and the other from today. Time has changed, but the bond remains the same.”

Kumar also shared two photographs capturing the passage of time, with one dating back to around 30 years ago and the other showing the two reunited in the present day. His post highlighted not only Jha’s professional achievement but also the fact that the former student remains in touch with the teacher who supported him during a difficult phase of his life.

 

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Through Super 30, based in Patna, Bihar, Kumar has worked to provide free coaching and support to students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds preparing for the IIT entrance examinations. His work and personal journey also inspired the Bollywood film Super 30, in which Hrithik Roshan portrayed the educator.

Jha’s journey adds to the stories of students who have pursued professional success despite financial obstacles. For Kumar, however, the reunion carried a significance beyond career achievements. The former student’s continued connection with his teacher served as a reminder of the lasting relationship that can develop through education, guidance and encouragement.

Also Read: Anand Kumar on Super 30’s Sequel: “Kahani aagey jani chahiye kyunki iss film ki kahani…”| Hrithik Roshan

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EXCLUSIVE: Drishyam actor Samvedna Suwalka recalls Hrithik Roshan’s dedication during ‘Sher Khul Gaye’ in Fighter: “Hrithik would not stop till he got the step right. He would take multiple takes”

Actor Samvedna Suwalka is known for her work in the Drishyam franchise where she plays Gayathri Mohan, the lawyer representing Vijay Salgaonkar (Ajay Devgn). Right now, she is enjoying the super success of Drishyam The Conclusion, in which she has a longer screen time.

In recent years, Samvedna was also a part in Siddharth Anand’s Fighter. She played the character of Bela, the wife of Squadron Leader Rajan Unnithan (Mahesh Shetty). Interestingly, she also got to shake a leg in the high-energy dance number ‘Sher Khul Gaye’ with Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone. In an exclusive chat with Bollywood Hungama, Samvedna looked back at her experience of doing the film.

Acting in a Hrithik Roshan starrer was like a full circle moment for Samvedna since she has been his fan from the time he first entered the scene. “Hrithik Roshan’s Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai (2000) had released when I was in school,” she recalled. “I, as a girl, remember that there was a craze for Hrithik then. There used to be postcards of him, which girls used to collect. It was insanity. Every girl in the school had a crush on him. Years later when I got this role, I was like, ‘Yes, I am getting a chance to dance with Hrithik Roshan and Deepika. I am doing this’.”

To be a part of ‘Sher Khul Gaye’ was a different experience for Samvedna. “I got to dance with Hrithik and Deepika,” she said. “I got to see how a set is like and what kind of energy there is when there are 200 dancers on the set and the professionalism and brilliance of Deepika and Hrithik. Hrithik would not stop till he got the step right. He would take multiple takes. I am looking at his steps and I am like, ‘This is brilliant. What is he trying to improve?’ But he would keep going to make it better. And then you realize why these people are stars. They work hard and that’s why they are where they are.”

Samvedna was also a part of Fighter’s Kashmir schedule, where there were scenes of them sitting around a campfire and playing in the snow. She said Hrithik was fully focussed during the shoot. “Deepika would still chat a little bit. But Hrithik was very focussed to get his lines right. I was afraid to go and disturb him because he was working and doing his job, so I thought let me not interfere,” she recollected. But during the success party of the film, she recalled, Hrithik was all friendly.

 

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Despite acting for years in independent and Gujarati films, Samvedna said that it is films like Drishyam 2 and Fighter made her known. She believes this is the power of mainstream commercial cinema. “The country knows about them. Everybody goes to watch. I understood the power of Bollywood commercial films. Before these films, I had done a show where I had 100 episodes. I was the female lead in that. Nobody has seen it. I worked so hard for it; my throat used to pain while saying all dialogues. Of course, I grew as an actor and everything is important. No complaints. But I saw the power of Bollywood commercial cinema where it reaches different nooks and corners,” she said.

Not many would know that Samvedna is a doctor by education. Her colleagues and former classmates noticed her for the first time after Drishyam 2 and Fighter. “My doctor colleagues from America would message me saying, ‘Tu actor ban gayi hai. Hum sabko pata nahin humari classmate actor hai’. I was like, ‘Bhai, main 10 saal se actor hoon’. But they live in US and they only watch films like Fighter. So, people start validating you when you become a part of something very big,” she said.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Drishyam actor Samvedna Suwalka recalls Ajay Devgn’s appreciation for her monologue in part 2: “He patted my back and said, ‘Well done’”; adds, “My 10-12 years of hard work is paying off after Drishyam The Conclusion”

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Pehla Pyaar Doosri Baar makers unveil the song ‘Jaane Kis Mod Pe’: Darshan Raval brings nostalgia and romance to Sparsh Walia, Kunal Vaid, Sargun Kaur Luthra starrer

The makers of Pehla Pyaar Doosri Baar have released a new song titled ‘Jaane Kis Mod Pe’, featuring vocals by Darshan Raval. The track captures the anticipation, nostalgia and excitement of young love, offering a glimpse into the film’s themes of friendship, romance and second chances. The film features Sparsh Walia, Alisha Chopra, Kunal Vaid, Sakshi Vaidya, Tushar Chhibber and Sargun Kaur Luthra, who are making their debuts with the project.

Composed by Rochak Kohli and penned by lyricist Gurpreet Saini, ‘Jaane Kis Mod Pe’ follows three friends as they embark on a road trip to attend their school reunion. Their journey is driven by the possibility of meeting their first crushes again, bringing a sense of anticipation about what awaits them along the way. The song reflects the uncertainty of revisiting the past and wondering whether old feelings could find a new beginning.

With its breezy sound and youthful mood, the track brings together the film’s focus on friendship and romance. Its narrative centres on the excitement of reconnecting with people from an earlier phase of life and the possibility of giving first love another chance.

Speaking about the song, Darshan Raval said, “‘Jaane Kis Mod Pe’ has a beautiful sense of anticipation to it. I loved the youthful, nostalgic emotion of the song and I hope it takes listeners back to a few of their own memories. It’s about going back to a place and a person who were once such an important part of your life, and wondering what it will feel like to see them again.”

 

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Composer Rochak Kohli added, “‘Jaane Kis Mod Pe’ has the feeling of a journey where you don’t really know what’s waiting at the other end. We wanted the music to capture that mix of excitement and nervousness of meeting your first crush after years. Darshan’s voice brings a lovely warmth and youthful energy to the song, while Gurpreet’s lyrics complete that emotion beautifully.”

Lyricist Gurpreet Saini said, “‘Jaane Kis Mod Pe’ is about being hopeful and finding love in unexpected ways and places. That’s why I have kept the lyrics easy and flowy, like how the characters in the film are, heading towards a school reunion each carrying a hope of romance. There is a lovely mix of youthful energy, friendship, and romance in the song, which Rochak‘s composition brings alive beautifully.”

The song is now available on T-Series Music. Presented by Luv Films, Pehla Pyaar Doosri Baar is directed by Anuj Saini and produced by Luv Ranjan and Ankur Garg. The film is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on October 23, 2026.

Also Read: Luv Ranjan defends casting newcomers in Pehla Pyaar Doosri Baar: “Hindi cinema needs a fresh wave of actors”

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Sayani Gupta wins IFFSA South Asian Screen Excellence Award on her birthday

Sayani Gupta is celebrating her birthday with another recognition, adding to a series of awards and festival appearances over the past month. The actor received the South Asian Screen Excellence Award at the International Film Festival of South Asia (IFFSA) in Toronto on her birthday.

Sayani is attending the festival as Guest of Honour, where her directorial debut, Aasmani, is being screened alongside her summit session, Becoming a Star, Remaining an Actor. She joins a list of previous award recipients that includes Shabana Azmi, Boman Irani, Imtiaz Ali, Tillotama Shome and Deepa Mehta.

The IFFSA honour marks Sayani’s second win in Canada in two weeks. At the International South Asian Film Festival (iSAFF) in Vancouver, she received the Leadership in Film Award 2026, while Aasmani earned an Honourable Mention for Excellence in Short Film Making. The festival also recognised her contribution to cinema through her role as a jury member for Excellence in Feature Filmmaking. The film held its Canadian premiere at the festival, drawing a full house.

The recognition for Aasmani has continued across other festivals. Last week, the film won Best Short Film at the Atlanta Indian Film Festival. In Boston, Sayani received the Best Director (Short Film) award for the project, while its young actor, Daria Bedi, won Best Child Actor.

Alongside her work as a filmmaker, Sayani has also received recognition for her acting. She was named Best Actress (Web Series) at the 14th Indian Cine Film Festival 2026 for her portrayal of Damini Rizvi Roy in Four More Shots Please! Season 4. She has played the character across all four seasons of the series.

The past month has seen Sayani travel across several cities and countries for screenings, festival appearances and award ceremonies. Her schedule has included Washington, DC, Toronto for TIFF, Boston, Chicago, Vancouver and Atlanta, with further stops in Tokyo and Kerala. Aasmani is also set to screen at several other festivals, including La Femme International Film Festival in Los Angeles.

From participating in jury panels to attending screenings and receiving awards, Sayani has spent the month balancing her work as an actor with the festival journey of her directorial debut. The film’s run has brought recognition to her work behind the camera, while her recent acting award highlights her continued presence on screen.

Now in Toronto for the IFFSA South Asian Screen Excellence Award, Sayani has another reason to mark her birthday. With the honour arriving on the same day, the occasion adds a personal milestone to a month of recognition for her work as an actor and filmmaker.

Also Read : Sayani Gupta receives iSAFF Leadership in Film Award Canada 2026; also wins Excellence in Short Filmmaking Honourable Mention for Aasmani

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Ritvik Sahore recalls full-circle moment of working with Rajkummar Rao in Prahaar; says, “He’s so warm and giving, and I learnt a lot just by watching him”

Ritvik Sahore recently opened up about his experience of working with Rajkummar Rao in the upcoming film Prahaar, describing it as a full-circle moment after years of admiring the actor’s work. From meeting Rajkummar at the success party of Stree to eventually sharing screen space with him, Ritvik said the journey has been particularly meaningful.

A few years ago, Ritvik attended the Stree success party with his close friend Aparshakti Khurana. It was there that he met Rajkummar and gathered the courage to approach him for a photograph. Recalling the encounter, Ritvik said, “It’s crazy how life comes full circle in the most unexpected ways. I remember going to the Stree success party with Aparshakti Khurana, who is a very dear friend of mine and had taken me along. I remember seeing Rajkummar there and thinking how much I admired his work. I’ve always been a huge fan of his, but I’m also quite shy, so I had to really gather the courage to go up and ask him for a picture. I remember thinking, ‘I hope I get to work with him someday.’”

That wish eventually came true when Ritvik was cast as Rajkummar’s son in Prahaar. Talking about their experience on the sets, he said, “A few years later, I got to play his son in Prahaar. Working with him was honestly such a special experience. He’s an incredible actor, but more than that, he’s a genuinely good human being. He’s so warm and giving, and I learnt a lot just by watching him. He’d be joking around and having fun on set, and the moment the camera came on, he’d just become Ujjwal Nikam. That was really inspiring to see.”

Ritvik also revealed that he had told Rajkummar about their old photograph, following which the actor suggested recreating it. The two eventually recreated the moment on the sets of Prahaar. “I had told him about that picture from the Stree party, and he suggested we recreate it. So, when we did that on the sets of Prahaar, it genuinely felt like a full-circle moment. And then getting to work with him again on Dada was just the cherry on top. I really couldn’t have asked for more,” he added.

Ritvik began his career as a child actor with films including Ferrari Ki Sawaari and Dangal and has since appeared in projects across theatrical and OTT platforms.

He will also feature in Dada, which stars Rajkummar as Saurav Ganguly. Ritvik is reportedly set to portray a noted cricketer, though the identity of his character has not been revealed yet.

Also Read : Ritvik Sahore on playing Ujjwal Nikam’s son in Prahaar, “It was fun exploring Aniket’s relationship with his father”

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Photos: Aditi Rao Hydari spotted outside a gym in Bandra

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EXCLUSIVE: After Pad Man, Swanand Kirkire to reunite with Akshay Kumar for Vipul Amrutlal Shah’s Samuk

Swanand Kirkire is reportedly the latest addition to the cast of Akshay Kumar and Vipul Amrutlal Shah’s Samuk. The actor-writer is said to have an important role in the sci-fi action-survival thriller, which is being directed by Kanishk Varma.

Produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah under Sunshine Pictures and co-produced by Aashin A. Shah, Samuk is currently being filmed in London. The project marks the reunion of Akshay Kumar and Vipul Amrutlal Shah after 13 years and is being made for a theatrical release.

Kirkire will be working with Akshay again after several years. He was associated with Pad Man as a writer, while he later acted in Chumbak, which was presented by Akshay. With Samuk, the two are now expected to share screen space, although details about Kirkire’s character have not been revealed.

Kirkire has worked across different areas of the Hindi film industry as a lyricist, writer and actor. His reported addition to Samuk further expands the film’s cast, which includes performers from different backgrounds.

According to sources, Kirkire’s role is important to the story, but the makers are keeping details about the characters under wraps. While several names from the cast have emerged, information about their respective roles has largely been kept confidential to protect details of the film’s world and storyline.

The reported ensemble includes Akshay Kumar, Rukmini Maitra, Vineet Kumar Singh and Rajat Kapoor, among others. Kirkire’s addition adds another familiar face to the cast, while details about how the different characters fit into the story remain undisclosed.

With filming currently underway in London, Samuk continues to keep much of its plot and character details under wraps. Kirkire’s reported casting also marks another collaboration between him and Akshay Kumar following their earlier associations in Pad Man and Chumbak.

Also Read : Swanand Kirkire and Shekhar Ravjiani announce first independent album collaboration titled ‘Maati’, to release the first song on 28th August

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Drishyam The Conclusion Box Office: Opening weekend jumps 7.5X from original film to finale

The Drishyam franchise has come a long way at the box office. What started with an opening weekend of Rs. 23.05 crore for the first film has now grown into a massive Rs. 174 crore opening weekend for Drishyam The Conclusion, underlining the phenomenal rise in the popularity of the franchise over the years. According to box office data, Drishyam opened to Rs. 23.05 crore in its first weekend. The film gradually built a strong audience base and became the foundation for what would go on to become one of Ajay Devgn’s most successful franchises.

When Drishyam 2 arrived, the response was significantly bigger. The sequel collected Rs. 64.14 crore in its opening weekend, nearly three times the opening weekend of the original. The film went on to enjoy a blockbuster theatrical run, finishing with a lifetime collection of Rs. 240.54 crore.

Now, Drishyam The Conclusion has taken the franchise’s opening weekend business to an entirely different level. The third instalment has collected Rs. 174 crore in its first three days, more than 2.7 times the opening weekend of Drishyam 2 and over seven times that of the original film.

The progression is particularly striking when the three opening weekends are placed together. Drishyam went from Rs. 23.05 crore to Rs. 64.14 crore with Drishyam 2, a jump of Rs. 41.09 crore. The third film has then added another Rs. 109.86 crore over its predecessor’s opening weekend.

The latest film opened with Rs. 62.03 crore on Friday, followed by Rs. 50.95 crore on Saturday and Rs. 60 crore on Sunday, taking the weekend to Rs. 174 crore. In percentage terms, Drishyam 2 grew the franchise’s opening weekend by nearly 178% over the original. Drishyam The Conclusion has gone even further, registering a jump of more than 171% over Drishyam 2.

Across three films, therefore, the franchise has gone from a Rs. 23.05 crore opening weekend to Rs. 174 crore, an increase of nearly Rs. 151 crore. It is a remarkable trajectory for a franchise that has consistently expanded its audience with each instalment. Drishyam The Conclusion has now taken that growth to blockbuster proportions, delivering by far the biggest opening weekend in the history of the franchise.

Drishyam Franchise Opening Weekend
Drishyam – Rs. 23.05 cr
Drishyam 2 – Rs. 64.14 cr
Drishyam The Conclusion – Rs. 174 cr

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Kumar Taurani reveals Tips LOST money on Ek Rishtaa after Suneel Darshan preponed release: “The music was just picking up”

Ramesh Taurani and Kumar Taurani spoke to Komal Nahta about their journey and experience of working on the music of some important films in their career. At one point, they revealed about their three bad experiences.

Ramsh Taurani said, “One was Yeh Raaste Hain Pyaar Ke (2001). Its director, Deepak Shivdasani, didn’t listen to us.” Kumar Taurani explained, “We gave suggestions to improve the film and the music, but he didn’t take our suggestions.”

Ramesh continued, “The second was Kyun Ho Gaya Na (2004). Its director, Samir Karnik, was very rigid.” Kumar clarified, “Later, all was well. We had great relations with them and we also decided to make more films with them.”

Kumar Taurani then stated, “There was one more. He was a very good maker and had a good ear for music. Unke saath hamari thodi khit-pit hui thi. I am talking about Suneel Darshan. We had bought the music rights of his film, Ek Rishtaa – The Bond Of Love (2001). He had committed to us that he would give us 8 to 10 weeks to promote the film, after which he would release the film. That film had great music.”

Kumar revealed, “Suddenly, he decided to prepone the release and bring the film to cinemas in 3 weeks. We explained to him that the music was picking up and needed some more time. Also, we had bought the music rights of Ek Rishtaa – The Bond Of Love at a very high price. However, he didn’t relent aur hamara kaafi nuksaan hua. Had we got more time, the music would have got established properly.” Ramesh added, “Even the film would have benefited.”

Kumar Taurani stated, “2 years later, he made Andaaz (2003) for which he launched his own music label. For that film, he promoted the songs for 8-10 weeks. It worked, as its songs became very popular. That’s when he realized that ‘Ek Rishtaa ke waqt maine mistake kiya tha’. Hence, that was not a very good experience.”

Also Read: Anubhav Sinha calls for more films on freedom fighters; says, “We need 1–2 films on Gandhi every year for the next 100 years”

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EXCLUSIVE: Tushar Hiranandani reveals Vicky Donor changed his career path: “I felt the kind of comedy I did was FINISHED”; credits Mohit Suri for giving him the courage to direct: “During Ek Villain, I was treated like a co-director”

Tushar Hiranandani’s directorial Srikanth (2024), starring Rajkummar Rao, was a sleeper hit and also won critical acclaim. And now, it is also a National Award-winning film. At the 72nd National Film Awards, Srikanth won the Best Hindi Feature Film award. Tushar’s earlier film, Saand Ki Aankh (2019), like Srikanth, was also inspired by real-life people and incidents. Interestingly, both these films were very different from the feel-good and comic capers that Tushar Hiranandani was earlier associated with, such as Masti (2004), Atithi Tum Kab Jaoge (2010), FALTU (2011), Double Dhamaal (2011), Housefull 2 (2012), Main Tera Hero (2014), etc. In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, Tushar Hiranandani spoke about this aspect and a lot more.

Tushar Hiranandani said, “Before turning director, I was a writer and have written several films. Some are good, some are bad, some are funny, while some are atrocious! A lot of people tell me, ‘How come you wrote these kinds of films and are now making films like Saand Ki Aankh and Srikanth?’ Well, firstly, age is a factor. I made my first film when I was 45. You mature and understand the mistakes that you have made. I believe we Indians realize what we really want to do only after we cross 40! Moreover, after I met my wife Nidhi (Nidhi Parmar Hiranandani), my thinking started changing.”

He revealed, “The film Vicky Donor (2012) also had an effect on me. I remember coming back home after watching that film. Nidhi and I were married by then. It was a time when I was writing for all the top directors who were making comedies. But when I came back home, I told her, ‘For some years, the kind of comedy I do – spoof, gags and films that are not too heavy on story – is finished. Vicky Donor will change a lot of things. People will gravitate towards such cinema.’ It was also a time when multiplexes were opening up. It was like the Dil Chahta Hai (2001) phenomenon. It may not have done huge business, but it is these cult films that change cinema in India. Vicky Donor was also a pathbreaker, at least in the comedy space.”

Tushar continued, “This was also the time when I looked up to Mohit Suri. I had just seen his film, Murder 2 (2011), and I felt it was crazy. It was not my kind of film, but I just loved it. I walked up to him and said, ‘Bro, I want to write your film.’ That’s how I bagged Ek Villain (2014). That was the turning point in my life.”

Tushar further said, “During the shoot of Ek Villain, Mohit made sure that I was on the set every day. I was treated like a co-director; that’s how he even credited me, besides crediting me as the film’s writer. That experience gave me the courage to direct.”

Tushar Hiranandani confessed, “I always wanted to become a director, but I had given up on that dream because I was doing quite well as a writer. I also worked at Balaji Motion Pictures (as head of content development). In fact, at the age of 45, I wanted to give up altogether. We didn’t have a child then and I wanted to retire! I had dreamt of going to Lonavala and indulging in gardening (smiles). But around this time, I saw the shooting dadi’s on Aamir Khan sir’s TV show, ‘Satyamev Jayate’. I started crying while hearing their story. I decided to make a film on them. I asked Nidhi, ‘Who’ll produce it?’ She replied, ‘I’ll produce it.’ That’s how both of us gave up our jobs and started making the film.”

The National Award winner signed off by saying, “I always liked these kinds of films, but iss industry mein chalti hui gaadi ka bonnet nahin kholte. Until I had no option, I kept writing. When I was making Saand Ki Aankh, a lot of people told me, ‘Are you mad? Why are you making a film on two old ladies? You know actors. You can get them and make a conventional film.’ But that didn’t matter. I feel the script is the star.”

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Tushar Hiranandani on Srikanth’s Covid challenges: “Shoot was cut from 65 to 55 days, but I finished it in 42”; reveals the CLEVER hack that made Cape Town look like America: “We shipped a yellow cab from NY to SA”

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Gandhi and My Mother: Makers of the Manoj Bajpayee starrer unveil new pictures on Gandhi Jayanti, watch

On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, the makers of Gandhi and My Mother have unveiled a series of pictures from the upcoming film. The images offer a glimpse into the period setting of the project and its visual treatment, while introducing audiences to the world created by filmmaker Sudhir Mishra.

Produced by Narendra Hirawat’s NH Studioz and Anubhav Sinha’s Benaras Mediaworks, Gandhi and My Mother is directed by Sudhir Mishra. The film features Manoj Bajpayee, Waheeda Rehman, Divya Dutta and Saurabh Shukla in pivotal roles, along with other members of the cast.

Set against the backdrop of Mahatma Gandhi’s life and legacy, the film explores a personal side of the historical figure. Rather than focusing only on the larger historical events associated with Gandhi, Gandhi and My Mother looks at the human dimension of the story and the relationships surrounding him.

The newly released pictures reflect the film’s period setting and give a look at the characters and environments recreated for the narrative. The visual glimpses also indicate the importance of the era in which the story is set.

The makers chose Gandhi Jayanti, observed every year on October 2, to share the first set of pictures from the film. The occasion marks the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and provides a context for the unveiling of the images from a film centred around his life and legacy.

Further details regarding the storyline, release date and other aspects of Gandhi and My Mother are expected to be announced by the makers in due course.

Also Read: “Manoj Bajpayee is funny, inspiring and there are no starry airs about him,” says Last Man In Tower co-star Swaroopa Ghosh

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