Star Plus may be gearing up to make a grand return to the reality television space with what is being described as one of its most ambitious non-fiction projects in recent years. While the channel has delivered several successful reality properties in the past, including Dance Plus and Nach Baliye, industry sources indicate that a brand-new format could soon be heading to television screens.
According to sources close to the development, the broadcaster is planning a large-scale reality show that could rival the stature and scale of popular formats such as Bigg Boss. Interestingly, insiders claim that the concept may also draw comparisons with some of the newer reality formats that have recently gained attention on streaming platforms, including The 50.
What makes the project particularly intriguing is its reported format. While official details remain tightly under wraps, sources suggest that the show may feature a fresh set of participants in every episode, offering viewers a constantly evolving narrative and a unique viewing experience unlike traditional reality competitions.
Adding further weight to the speculation is the reported involvement of Endemol Shine India, the production house behind Bigg Boss and several other successful unscripted formats. Industry insiders believe that the collaboration signals the channel’s intent to mount the project on a significant scale.
The mystery surrounding the show has only intensified with reports that the first promotional shoot is currently underway in Mumbai. Sources reveal that the host has already begun filming the inaugural promo, although the identity of the face leading the show has not been officially confirmed.
Meanwhile, industry chatter suggests that a major Bollywood name could be associated with the project. Among the names doing the rounds is Anil Kapoor, who has previously showcased his flair for hosting and television appearances. However, there has been no official confirmation regarding his involvement at the time of writing.
With the channel maintaining complete secrecy around the project, fans and industry observers alike are eagerly awaiting an official announcement. If the reports hold true, Star Plus could be preparing to re-enter the reality entertainment arena in a big way, with a format that promises both scale and novelty.
The development of Krrish 4 has been under intense scrutiny ever since reports surfaced claiming there were disagreements between Hrithik Roshan and Yash Raj Films over the film’s budget. However, filmmaker Rakesh Roshan has now firmly dismissed such speculation, calling the reports baseless and reiterating that the ambitious superhero project is progressing smoothly.
Over the past few months, industry chatter suggested that Hrithik Roshan, who is set to make his directorial debut with Krrish 4, was keen on mounting the film on a massive scale with world-class visual effects and action sequences. Reports further claimed that while Hrithik envisioned a budget of around Rs 500 crores, Yash Raj Films preferred to keep production costs closer to Rs 350 crores to ensure commercial viability.
Addressing these rumours, Rakesh Roshan told Mid-Day, “It’s all nonsense that Hrithik has asked for a Rs 500 crore budget for top-tier VFX and world-class action for his directorial debut, while YRF wants to cap costs at Rs 350 crores. Making a good film catering to a [wide] audience takes time. Even I have taken time for each of my Krrish offerings.”
The filmmaker also shed light on why the much-awaited superhero sequel has yet to go on floors despite being announced some time ago. According to him, the delay has more to do with scheduling than any creative or financial differences. “Krrish is on another planet and we are all waiting for his dates,” Rakesh Roshan joked, referring to Hrithik’s packed professional commitments.
He further clarified that there are no issues between the stakeholders involved in the project. “There are no issues; all is smooth. It’s teamwork between Adi, Hrithik, and me,” he said.
Krrish 4 has undergone several changes over the years. Earlier, director Karan Malhotra and filmmaker-producer Siddharth Anand were reportedly associated with the project. However, the film eventually took a new direction, with Hrithik Roshan stepping into the director’s chair. The upcoming installment is being jointly backed by Rakesh Roshan’s Filmkraft and Aditya Chopra’s Yash Raj Films.
While Rakesh Roshan refrained from sharing a definitive timeline for production, he revealed that the script is nearly finalized and the makers are hoping to begin filming by the end of the year. “I will update you when everything is ready,” he concluded.
The horror-comedy sensation Munjya hit the silver screen on June 7, 2024, altering the trajectory of young actor Abhay Verma’s career forever. Emerging as a massive sleeper hit at the box office and entering the coveted Rs 100-crores club, the film solidified Abhay’s position as a breakout talent and a household name.
Reflecting on this milestone as the film completes two years, Abhay has successfully wrapped up a diverse and highly anticipated lineup of projects since the film’s release, proving that the momentum generated by Munjya was just the beginning.
He posted on social media: “2 years to Munjya!! Today changed everything; forever! Aaj bhi jab aap Bittu bulaate hain to din ban jaata hai… aur is pyaar ke liye kuch bhi… You all gave me a life I could only dream of having! Jaldi milte hain.”
Following the monumental success of Munjya, Abhay Verma has actively expanded his horizons by wrapping up an incredibly diverse slate of high-profile projects over the last two years. Transitioning seamlessly across genres, the young actor is set to showcase his versatility in several major upcoming releases.
He will be seen sharing screen space with industry megastar Shah Rukh Khan and Suhana Khan in the high-octane action thriller King, directed by Siddharth Anand. He is also set to headline the raw and intense romantic musical drama Laikey Laikaa alongside Rasha Thadani under Phantom Studios, as well as the highly anticipated musical feature Dilkashi, directed by Lijo Jose Pellissery and backed musically by A.R. Rahman.
Adding to this impressive lineup is Project JC, a major feature co-starring Shanaya Kapoor and directed by Shujaat Saudagar. Furthermore, Abhay will also be seen in the highly anticipated web series Operation Safed Sagar, where he steps into a heroic role as an Air Force officer, further cementing his position as one of the most exciting and versatile talents to watch out for.
From being the nation’s endearing protagonist in Munjya to sharing screen space with some of Indian cinema’s biggest names and taking on diverse, challenging roles, Abhay Verma’s evolution marks him as one of the most promising and exciting young actors to watch out for.
Hungama in association with the Bhamla Foundation, hosted a special World Environment Day celebration on June 5, 2026, at the Amphi Theatre, Carter Road, Mumbai. The event brought together leaders from entertainment, business, public service, and social impact sectors to recognise individuals and organisations driving meaningful change and championing a more sustainable future.
Spearheaded by Asif Bhamla and Saher Bhamla, the Bhamla Foundation has been at the forefront of driving awareness around environmental issues through impactful campaigns and community-led initiatives focused on air quality, waste management, plastic reduction and sustainable living. Over the years, the Foundation has marked World Environment Day through large-scale public engagement efforts, bringing together citizens, policymakers, industry leaders and celebrities to inspire positive change.
The event was attended by government representatives and public officials. The green carpet and felicitation ceremony also witnessed the presence of prominent personalities, including Jackie Shroff, Gaur Gopal Das, Palak Muchhal, Vedang Raina, Anurag Thakur, Raj Shetty, Alka Kapoor, Malaika Arora, Niti Mohan, Shankar Mahadevan, Raghav Juyal, Sonu Sood, Seema Singh, Badshah, Rupali Ganguly, Debina Bonnerjee, Gurmeet Choudhary, Jannat Zubair, and several other distinguished guests.
The evening recognised changemakers for their contributions towards social and environmental causes, highlighting the power of collective action and inspiring greater awareness towards building a more sustainable future.
When Aamir Khan confirmed that he is set to marry Gauri Spratt on July 5, the news naturally travelled beyond the entertainment pages. Reports stated that the actor confirmed the wedding date himself, with the ceremony expected to be intimate and private.
On the surface, this is a celebrity-life story. A superstar is beginning a new personal chapter, and the public is curious. But Aamir Khan’s life has never been viewed by audiences only through the lens of gossip. For more than three decades, he has represented a certain seriousness in Hindi cinema: the thinking star, the perfectionist, the man who speaks less but makes every move count.
That is why his personal choices also invite a different kind of attention. They are not merely consumed; they are interpreted.
Aamir introduced Gauri Spratt to the media around his 60th birthday, and the relationship gradually entered public conversation without the usual circus of aggressive celebrity promotion. In an era where star relationships are often packaged through paparazzi appearances, airport sightings and Instagram choreography, Aamir’s approach has felt quieter, almost old-world. And perhaps that is why it has struck a chord.
The public fascination with superstar relationships comes from a contradiction. Stars live impossibly public lives, but love remains their most private space. Audiences feel they know them through films, interviews and public appearances, yet a relationship reminds everyone that there is an inner life beyond the image. Aamir Khan may be a national figure, but in this moment, the story is about something far more universal: it is companionship.
There is also a cultural shift at play. For earlier generations, public conversations around love after separation, remarriage or later-life companionship often came with judgement. Today, while scrutiny remains, there is also greater acceptance of the idea that personal happiness can have multiple chapters. A superstar finding love again is no longer only a scandalous headline; it can also be seen as a story of emotional renewal.
Aamir’s screen image adds another layer. He has played idealists, rebels, romantics, fathers, mentors and flawed men searching for meaning. Off screen too, his journey has seen reinvention. From romantic hero to social voice, from box office titan to selective performer, from private family man to public intellectual. This new chapter therefore fits into a larger Aamir narrative; the refusal to stay frozen in one definition.
At 60, the idea of love is different from what it is at 25. It is less about spectacle and more about peace. Less about proving something to the world and more about finding someone with whom silence feels comfortable. That is what makes this story emotionally resonant. The curiosity is not just about the wedding; it is about the man behind the mythology choosing companionship at a stage when most stars are expected to only protect their legacy.
Bollywood has always sold love as fantasy. But perhaps the more moving stories are the ones that arrive after the fantasy, after fame, after failure, after public judgement, after reinvention. Aamir Khan’s new beginning reminds us that even for superstars, life is not a single screenplay. It is a series of drafts.
And sometimes, the most important chapter begins when the applause has quietened.
On the occasion of World Environment Day, actor and UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) National Advocate Bhumi Pednekar spoke passionately about the urgent need for climate action and sustainability, emphasizing that environmental concerns can no longer remain a secondary conversation. The actor reflected on her long-standing commitment to environmental causes and urged both individuals and industries to take greater responsibility towards protecting the planet.
Bhumi revealed that her concern for climate change began long before she entered the entertainment industry. As a teenager, she often worried about the future of the environment and the consequences of unchecked human activity. Looking at the current state of the world, she believes many of those fears have unfortunately materialized.
According to the actor, the effects of climate change are now impossible to ignore. From rising temperatures and extreme weather events to growing environmental challenges across the globe, Bhumi feels the world is witnessing the consequences of years of unsustainable practices.
Speaking about the importance of individual responsibility, Bhumi stressed that every effort matters, no matter how small. She rejected the commonly held belief that one person’s actions cannot make a difference, saying that meaningful change begins with individual choices and collective participation. Having represented India at the World Economic Forum in Davos, she believes that governments, businesses, communities, and individuals must work together to create lasting impact.
The actor also opened up about her own sustainability journey and the lifestyle changes she has adopted over the years. Bhumi admitted that reducing plastic consumption was among the most challenging habits to break. She further shared that encouraging people around her to be more mindful about water conservation was not always easy, but persistence and awareness eventually helped bring about change.
Turning her attention to the entertainment industry, Bhumi candidly stated that cinema too has a significant environmental footprint and must do more to become sustainable. She pointed out that film productions often generate large amounts of waste and suggested that greater emphasis should be placed on recycling and upcycling sets, costumes, and props instead of discarding them after use.
Beyond sustainable production practices, Bhumi believes cinema can serve as a powerful catalyst for behavioural change. Since audiences often emulate what they see on screen, she feels filmmakers can subtly promote eco-friendly habits through storytelling. Whether it is showcasing electric vehicles, conscious consumption, or sustainable lifestyles, Bhumi believes cinema has the power to inspire millions and contribute meaningfully to a greener future.
Paramount Pictures has released a new featurette for PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie, introducing Rhubarb, a new dinosaur character joining the franchise, ahead of the film’s India theatrical release on August 28, 2026.
The featurette also features Timmy the T-Rex and a group of dinosaur characters referred to as the Dino Pack. The voice cast includes McKenna Grace, Jameela Jamil, Terry Crews, and Jennifer Hudson.
In the film, the PAW Patrol pups crash-land on an uncharted tropical island after their ship is caught in a mysterious storm. On the island, they encounter Rex, a pup who has been stranded there for years and has developed expertise in dinosaurs.
The pups’ recurring antagonist, Mayor Humdinger, arrives on the island and begins mining its natural resources, inadvertently triggering the eruption of a dormant volcano. The PAW Patrol must intervene before the island’s inhabitants face extinction.
Produced by Paramount Pictures, PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie will release in Indian theatres in English and Hindi on August 28, 2026.
Actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui has revealed that he did not charge a fee for his latest film Main Actor Nahin Hoon, a decision he said mirrors the approach he took with his earlier film Manto.
Explaining his decision, Siddiqui said, “Of course, money is important. I’m not denying that. But if money becomes the only thing guiding your decisions as an actor, then your passion begins to suffer somewhere.”
The actor added, “I never entered films thinking I would become rich through acting. If earning money was my only goal, I could have done something else entirely. In fact, I didn’t take any money for this film and even for Manto.”
Siddiqui said he strongly believed Main Actor Nahin Hoon deserved to be made and seen by audiences, regardless of its scale or commercial prospects.
Reflecting on the shoot, Siddiqui said, “It may release on only 50 or 60 screens, with limited shows, but while shooting it, I genuinely enjoyed myself as an actor. It reminded me of theatre days: Experimental, honest, and free.”
Siddiqui is also in development on Tumbbad 2, the sequel to the 2018 cult film, with production expected to begin soon.
ADR Media Production’s Jeena Dil Se is continuing its theatrical run with encouraging feedback from audiences, particularly among younger viewers who have connected with its themes of love, friendship, ambition and modern relationships.
Directed by Adhish Rana and produced by Amardeep Rana, the film is positioned as a youth-focused drama that explores the emotional experiences and personal challenges faced by today’s generation. Rather than relying on larger-than-life situations, the narrative attempts to present relatable characters and situations that reflect everyday aspirations, friendships and evolving relationships.
Since its release, Jeena Dil Se has gradually generated positive word of mouth, especially among college students and young couples. Audience reactions have highlighted the film’s focus on emotional authenticity and its effort to portray contemporary relationships in a grounded manner.
The film features a relatively fresh ensemble cast comprising Ruma Sharma, Lakhya Handa, Mehak Jain, Yash Purohit, Kunal Chhabra, Deeksha Suryawanshi, Teji Singh, Priyanka Modgill, Shivani Wazir, Kanchan Singh, Kiara Diwan, Abhishek Singh Rajput, Shradha Joshi, Muskan Varshney, Kriti Verma and Viraaj (Kushagra Singh). Their performances have been noted by viewers for bringing a sense of freshness to the screen while helping the story remain rooted in the experiences of young adults.
A significant aspect of the film’s appeal lies in its writing. The screenplay, penned by Anuj Kumar and Kiran Sharma from a story by Sanjay Prajapati, explores themes such as personal aspirations, emotional growth and interpersonal bonds. The narrative focuses on situations that many young viewers may find familiar, which has contributed to the film’s growing connect with its target audience.
Director Adhish Rana’s approach also avoids excessive melodrama, instead opting for a more restrained and realistic treatment of relationships and emotions. This storytelling style has helped the film establish its own identity within the youth-drama space.
The latest release Karuppu starring Suriya as the leading man, has emerged as one of the biggest Tamil blockbusters of the year, earning both critical acclaim and impressive box office numbers since its release in May. As the film continues its successful run in theatres, the superstar has now won hearts off-screen with a generous gesture towards the technicians who played a crucial role in bringing the film to life.
In a special token of appreciation, Suriya gifted brand-new Mahindra BE6 Batman edition cars to three key members of the Karuppu team. The luxury electric vehicles, estimated to cost around Rs. 30 lakh each, were presented to music composer Sai Abhyankkar, cinematographer GK Vishnu, and editor Selvamani.
The gesture was Suriya’s way of acknowledging the hard work and dedication of the technicians whose contributions helped shape the film’s success. The recipients later took to social media to share the news and express their gratitude to the actor. Music composer Sai Abhyankkar posted photographs of his new car and wrote, “Love you dear @actorsuriya sir @rajsekarpandian @prabhu_sr”, accompanied by pink heart emojis.
Cinematographer GK Vishnu also shared his excitement on social media, writing, “Just God things!! Thank you @Suriya_offl sir. You have a huge heart!!!!” Editor Selvamani, meanwhile, referenced one of Suriya’s most celebrated characters while expressing his gratitude. Sharing a picture of the gift, he wrote, “#karuppu Just God things ?? Thank you @Suriya_offl anna ?? Got life time settlement from Our #ROLEX.” The mention of “Rolex” was a nod to Suriya’s popular cameo character from Lokesh Kanagaraj’s blockbuster Vikram, a role that continues to enjoy a massive fan following.
The actor’s thoughtful gesture has received widespread appreciation from fans online, with many praising him for recognising the efforts of technicians who often work behind the scenes. The move has also reignited conversations about the importance of celebrating every department that contributes to a film’s success.
Directed by RJ Balaji, Karuppu is a fantasy action entertainer based on a screenplay co-written by Balaji along with Rathna Kumar, Ashwin Ravichandran, Rahul Raj, T. S. Gopi Krishnan and Karan Aravind Kumar. Produced by Dream Warrior Pictures, the film features Suriya in the lead role alongside Trisha Krishnan and RJ Balaji. The ensemble cast also includes Indrans, Natty Subramaniam, Swasika, Sshivada and Supreeth Reddy.
The film follows the story of Vettai Karuppu, a guardian deity who disguises himself as a lawyer to take on corruption within the judicial system while fighting for justice for a young girl awaiting a liver transplant. Blending fantasy, action and social commentary, the film struck a chord with audiences upon its release on May 15, 2026.
With Karuppu continuing to enjoy a successful theatrical run, Suriya’s latest gesture has further strengthened his reputation as a star who values and celebrates the people behind the camera just as much as those in front of it.
The legal war between Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie shows no signs of cooling, nearly a decade after their initial split. Even as their multi-year divorce proceedings drag on, the contested ownership of Château Miraval, their French winery, continues to generate fresh courtroom battles on multiple fronts.
Michigan ruling favours Pitt
The most recent development emerged from a Michigan court, where a judge ruled in Pitt’s favour in a dispute tied to Jolie’s 2021 sale of her stake in the winery.
According to The Daily Star, the judge ordered Todd Culyba, former general counsel of the Stoli Group, to submit to a further deposition after he had declined to respond to dozens of questions during an earlier session.
Pitt’s legal team had been seeking information about the sale of Jolie’s share of Château Miraval to Tenute del Mondo, a company linked to the Stoli Group. The judge determined that attorney-client privilege could not be applied as a shield against questions relating to the commercial dimensions of the transaction.
The roots of the dispute
The conflict traces back to 2022, when Pitt filed a lawsuit alleging that Jolie had sold her interest in the winery without his knowledge or consent, in breach of what he claims was a mutual agreement between them. Jolie has consistently denied that any such agreement ever existed. The Michigan ruling follows a separate verdict in California that went Jolie’s way. A Los Angeles Superior Court judge rejected Pitt’s request for access to a set of confidential emails connected to the winery sale, ruling that the documents were protected under attorney-client privilege.
Jolie’s attorney, Paul Murphy, welcomed the California decision, arguing that Pitt had failed to meet the legal threshold required to obtain the communications. The ruling was issued without prejudice, however, meaning Pitt retains the option to revisit the matter under a different legal framework.
More legal trouble and a fractured family name
Beyond the winery litigation, Pitt is also navigating a trademark dispute involving his skincare label Beau Domaine. Malibu-based skincare company Beau D has filed a lawsuit claiming the brand name bears too close a resemblance to its own, potentially misleading consumers.
The company is pursuing financial damages and an injunction to prevent Pitt from continuing to use the Beau Domaine name.
On a personal level, the ongoing legal friction mirrors deep rifts within the family. Several of the former couple’s children have actively moved to distance themselves from the Pitt surname. Maddox Chivan Jolie-Pitt has reportedly used only “Jolie” informally for years, while siblings Shiloh, Zahara, and Vivienne have taken steps to drop “Pitt” from their public and legal names.
With active litigation spanning multiple states and no resolution in sight over Château Miraval, the post-split legal entanglement between Pitt and Jolie appears set to endure for years to come.
On May 30, 2026, a Delhi court ordered the framing of criminal charges against Jacqueliene Fernandez, conman Sukesh Chandrashekar, and 15 others in a high-profile Rs 200-crores money laundering case. The ruling establishes that the trial against the actor and the co-accused will formally commence following their appearance in court this week.
Additional Sessions Judge (ASJ) Prashant Sharma observed that the investigative findings revealed a robust legal basis to proceed with the prosecution. “Prima facie, there is sufficient material on record based upon which a strong suspicion is raised against all the accused,” the ASJ stated, as per a report by PTI.
The court held that Fernandez and the others are liable to be prosecuted for the offence of money laundering under Section 3 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), which is punishable under Section 4 of the same Act. The judge has directed all the accused individuals to appear physically in court on June 3 for the formal signing and framing of the charges.
The court rejected Fernandez’s primary legal defense that she was an unwitting victim being made a scapegoat in the case. Her legal team had previously argued that she should not be prosecuted under the PMLA since she was not named as an accused in the scheduled extortion offense handled by the Delhi Police. However, the court dismissed this argument as meritless, reiterating that an individual can be prosecuted under anti-money laundering laws independently of the core scheduled offense.
The court noted that Fernandez’s own statements recorded under Section 50 of the PMLA clearly indicated her regular interaction with Chandrashekar, as well as the receipt of substantial funds and luxury articles. The ruling emphasized that the actor was aware of Chandrashekar’s extensive criminal background and yet chose to receive expensive gifts, financial payments for her brother, and a car for her parents, thereby attracting liability for utilizing the proceeds of crime.
The decision arrives shortly after the court permitted Fernandez to withdraw her application filed on April 16, which had sought to turn an approver in the ongoing probe. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) had vehemently opposed her petition, arguing that her active involvement and ongoing communication with the prime accused disqualified her from seeking such relief.
The broader case stems from an investigation into an organized criminal network operated by Chandrashekar, who was first arrested by the Delhi Police in 2017 and subsequently by the ED in 2021. Prosecution details reveal that Chandrashekar managed the extortion racket from inside his prison cell using spoofed calls, encrypted applications, and fabricated identities. By impersonating high-ranking government officials from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the Ministry of Home Affairs, and the Ministry of Law and Justice, he induced the complainant, Aditi Singh, to part with huge sums of money totaling over Rs 200 crore.
Veteran playback singer Suman Kalyanpur, whose melodious voice graced several memorable Hindi film songs from the 1960s and 1970s, passed away on Sunday evening at her Mumbai residence. She was 89. The singer, known for evergreen tracks such as ‘Na Na Karte Pyar Tumhin Se,’ ‘Tumne Pukara Aur Hum Chale Aaye,’ and ‘Aajkal Tere Mere Pyar Ke Charche,’ reportedly died due to age-related health issues.
Confirming the news, Mangala Khadilkar, author of the acclaimed Marathi biography Suman Sugandh, shared details about the singer’s final moments. “Suman ji passed away at around 8 pm at her residence in Lokhandwala due to old age. She passed away peacefully. For the last few days she was listening to her own songs,” Khadilkar told PTI.
With a career spanning several decades, Kalyanpur carved a distinct identity for herself in the Indian music industry during an era dominated by some of the country’s most celebrated playback singers. Her soft, expressive voice won the admiration of music lovers and earned her a special place in Hindi cinema’s golden age.
Apart from Hindi cinema, Kalyanpur showcased her versatility by recording songs in several Indian languages, including Marathi, Bengali, Kannada, Assamese and Odia. Her repertoire also extended beyond film music to devotional songs, ghazals and thumris, reflecting the depth and range of her musical abilities.
Suman Kalyanpur is survived by her daughter, Charu. According to family sources, her last rites will be performed at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Mumbai on Monday between 11:30 am and 12 noon.
Bollywood Hungama extends its heartfelt condolences to Suman Kalyanpur’s family, friends, and countless admirers. May her soul rest in peace, while her timeless melodies continue to live on in the hearts of music lovers.
Over the last few years, Jio Studios has emerged as one of the most dominant forces in the Indian entertainment industry, and at the heart of this transformation has been Jyoti Deshpande, who is heading the operations at the studio. Its unprecedented success has now received recognition from none other than Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani, who highlighted the achievements of Jio Studios and the blockbuster Dhurandhar franchise in his letter to his shareholders.
Praising the phenomenal performance of Dhurandhar, Ambani said in the letter, “It achieved an unprecedented 40%+ of India’s box office,” he said.
The success of the franchise has cemented Jio Studios’ position as a market leader. Ambani pointed out, “Jio Studios has achieved the unique distinction of having the highest-grossing film three years in a row with Stree 2 in 2024, Dhurandhar in 2025 and Dhurandhar The Revenge in 2026, demonstrating consistency and undisputed leadership,” said Ambani.
The Reliance chairman further underlined the scale of the achievement, stating, “FY 2025-26 saw Jio Studios release ‘the record-smashing spy action thrillers Dhurandhar and Dhurandhar The Revenge (together the Dhurandhar franchise), creating new benchmarks in box office, release strategy, monetisation models and customer engagement, globally,” he stated.
What made the franchise particularly historic was the ambitious release strategy adopted by the studio. The first installment arrived in cinemas in December 2025, while the sequel followed just three months later in March 2026. Reflecting on the unique approach, Ambani noted, “Never before in the world, let alone India, had a film franchise been conceived, financed and shot as two parts and released so close to each other,” he said in the letter.
According to Ambani, the gamble paid off spectacularly. “The first part on its own created a record to become the highest-grossing Indian film of all time. The film saw an unprecedented run of 15 straight weeks till the second part hit the cinema screens amid massive anticipation and smashed records set by the first part.”
The extraordinary performance of the Dhurandhar franchise is also a reflection of the vision Jyoti Deshpande has pursued since taking charge of building Jio Studios from scratch. In a recent exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, she revealed that the studio always believed in the film’s potential.
Speaking about expectations from Dhurandhar, Deshpande said, “When you greenlight a film, at the corner of your eye, you want to keep the economics. I don’t make films looking at the downside; like it should not be more than this downside. I always play for the upside and not really looking to break even in a film. So, we thought it’s clutter-breaking enough. Animal was an adult film. It showed that it can do a certain amount of business. So, we thought, even if this does Rs. 400-500 crores box office, we will be home. In our mind, that was the number.”
What followed exceeded even those expectations, with Dhurandhar and Dhurandhar The Revenge rewriting box-office records and becoming cultural phenomena.
Deshpande believes the studio’s success is not the result of a single lucky hit but of a consistent strategy. She explained, “The fact that three years in a row – Stree 2, Dhurandhar, Dhurandhar The Revenge – top three films of 2024, 2025 and 2026 has been ours, shows that it’s not an accident. It’s not a one-trick pony.”
Deshpande also shed light on the principles that guide her decision-making process. Referring to a dialogue from Dhurandhar, she said, “In Dhurandhar, there is a line, ‘Nazar aur sabr’. Along with that you need rigour. You can’t greenlight something just because an actor is available or someone has dates. The rigour that you need to spend in getting the story right; in trying to create that perfect storm across all departments. All departments need to fire to make that magic. For example, in Laapataa Ladies, all departments fired and there was a little piece of magic. Same with Dhurandhar.”
That emphasis on discipline often means turning down projects. Speaking about the toughest aspect of her job, she admitted, “Saying ‘no’ to a lot of films. The power of no is not easy. You are tempted to say ‘yes’ to a substandard stories and think that along the way you will somewhere repair it. So, that discipline of saying ‘no’ unless you have full conviction that has been tough.”
She further explained the criteria she considers before backing any project: “The uniqueness of the premise of a film. How different and clutter-breaking is the premise of a film. The conviction and intent of the captain of the ship in terms of the filmmaker and how much skin in the game do they have. I like to see most of my budget showing up on screen rather than on other below-the-line activities.”
The recognition from the Ambani family has been particularly meaningful for Deshpande, who has overseen the studio’s journey since its inception. She said, “They are incredibly proud. From 2018, I set up this studio from the ground up; it’s a baby. From zero we set it up and we have reached this far. It can’t happen without the support of the (Ambani) family. They have given us wings to fly. They are extremely proud for the success that we have been able to achieve. I think the testimony to that is that Jio Studios, this time, made to the RIL investor presentation. An example of Dhurandhar was given. Three-four pages were dedicated to our small business. I think our zeroes are very less as compared to the RIL balance sheet, although we may be the largest in our industry.”
With three consecutive years of industry-leading blockbusters and the historic success of the Dhurandhar franchise, Jyoti Deshpande’s leadership has transformed Jio Studios from a new entrant into a powerhouse of Indian cinema. The acknowledgment from Mukesh Ambani himself serves as perhaps the strongest endorsement yet of the studio’s remarkable journey and its growing influence on the global entertainment landscape.
Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur and composer A.R. Rahman have announced a new collaboration titled Masoom: The New Generation, a contemporary film inspired by Kapur’s 1983 classic Masoom. The project marks another creative partnership between Kapur and Rahman, who have previously worked together on projects such as Elizabeth: The Golden Age, Bombay Dreams, and Why? The Musical. For the new film, Rahman will not only compose the music but will also serve as a co-producer.
According to the makers, Masoom: The New Generation will examine themes of family, identity, love, and migration in a contemporary setting while retaining the emotional foundation associated with the original film.
Speaking about the project, Shekhar Kapur said, “For a long time, I’ve felt that the themes of Masoom deserved to be revisited through the lens of today’s world. Families, relationships, identity; these ideas have evolved so much, and cinema must evolve with them. Rahman has always had the rare ability to create music that speaks directly to the soul of a story and its audience. Having him as both composer and creative partner on this journey makes it even more meaningful.”
A.R. Rahman also shared his thoughts on joining the film in multiple capacities. “Working with Shekhar has always been a deeply enriching experience, he has been a mentor and a creative force in many ways. When he shared the vision for this film, I felt compelled to be involved beyond the music. There’s something timeless about Masoom, and reinterpreting that emotional world for a new generation feels both exciting and necessary,” Rahman said.
The film will feature an ensemble cast that includes Naseeruddin Shah, Shabana Azmi, Manoj Bajpayee, Nithya Menen, and Kaveri Kapur.
Released in 1983, the original Masoom remains one of the most acclaimed films in Hindi cinema and is remembered for its portrayal of family relationships and emotional conflicts. With Masoom: The New Generation, the makers aim to revisit some of those themes while placing them in a contemporary social context.
The film is currently in pre-production and is expected to begin filming later this year. A worldwide theatrical release is planned for 2026.
Actor Deepak Tijori has spoken out in support of his longtime friend and Aashiqui co-star Rahul Roy, dismissing recent speculation surrounding the actor’s health and well-being.
Rahul Roy has been in the spotlight in recent weeks after several social media videos featuring him went viral. The clips sparked mixed reactions online, with some fans expressing concern about his physical condition and speech, while others criticized the content. The discussions gained momentum due to Rahul’s history of a brain stroke in 2020, from which he has been recovering over the past few years.
Amid the ongoing conversation, Deepak Tijori has clarified that there is no cause for concern and that Rahul is doing well.
Speaking to IANS, Deepak said, “I am in regular touch with Roy. Roy is still my brother, my friend, and he is perfectly safe; he is perfectly fine. It’s just people making news for no reason. There is no such thing that has been written about him.”
The statement comes shortly after Rahul himself addressed several rumours circulating online. In a detailed clarification shared on social media, the actor rejected claims that he had been abandoned or was facing severe personal difficulties.
Rahul explained that he currently lives with his sister and brother-in-law in Madh Island and receives their full support and care. He also clarified that his decision to travel by auto-rickshaw or avoid private security arrangements is a matter of personal preference rather than financial necessity.
The actor further revealed that he continues to deal with legal expenses related to court cases that predate his 2020 stroke. At the same time, he stressed that he remains committed to working and staying professionally active.
According to Rahul, continuing to work helps him maintain a sense of purpose while also supporting his recovery journey. He also responded to online criticism by encouraging those concerned about him to help him find meaningful work opportunities instead of spreading speculation.
Tom Holland has spoken about his involvement in the development of Spider-Man: Brand New Day, sharing details of his participation in the film’s writing process in a recent interview with Empire. The film is set for worldwide theatrical release on July 31, 2026, with Sony Pictures Entertainment India releasing it in India in English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam across all premium formats.
Holland revealed that the writing team met once every two weeks to discuss ideas and ambitions, and that this was the first time he had the opportunity to participate in the writer’s room. His initial pitch centred on the idea of Peter Parker losing control as things around him begin to change, a concept he called “Spider-Puberty”. “My pitch when I came to the table with it was called ‘Spider-Puberty’. What happens if Peter Parker is losing control and things are changing?” he said. He added, “‘Spider-Puberty’ was my tagline pitch to the studio, which was immediately shot down. But they liked the kernel of the idea and it grew into what we have in the movie now.”
On the long-term future of the Spider-Man franchise, Holland said, “For whoever’s next, whether that is a Miles Morales or a Spider-Gwen or a Spider-Woman or something like that, I would love to be a part of setting up the next chapter. Whatever that looks like, I don’t know. But if I could do what Downey did for me, then I would be so content swinging off into the sunset.”
Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton and produced by Kevin Feige, Amy Pascal, Avi Arad and Rachel O’Connor, Spider-Man: Brand New Day is written by Chris McKenna and Erik Sommers. The film stars Tom Holland alongside Zendaya, Jacob Batalon, Sadie Sink, Jon Bernthal, Mark Ruffalo, Michael Mando and Tramell Tillman. Sony Pictures Entertainment India releases Spider-Man: Brand New Day in theatres across India on July 31, 2026.
Every once in a while, history pauses to remind us that when the country is pushed to the brink, it isn’t superheroes or larger-than-life figures who hold the fort, it is the common man who rises to the occasion. Celebrating these unsung heroes who keep the nation running, Kangana Ranaut-starrer Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata has dropped its powerful motion poster, saluting the ordinary people who became extraordinary when it mattered the most.
Titled The Unseen Heroes, the motion poster is a stirring ode to those who are always around us, yet rarely acknowledged. It shifts the definition of heroism away from grand gestures and dramatic victories, focusing instead on duty, resilience, and silent courage.
The motion poster captures the essence of everyday bravery. It honours nurses, ward boys, cleaners, lift operators, security staff, and administrators, faces we pass daily without a second glance. When terror engulfed the city, these were the people who chose responsibility over self-preservation, ensuring that life inside hospital walls continued despite the chaos outside.
Starring Kangana Ranaut, Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata places its emotional and moral centre within hospital corridors—spaces where fear was met not with panic, but with presence of mind and collective resolve.
Kangana Ranaut says, “Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata is a salutation to those invisible souls who, when pushed into crisis, rise to stand as the ultimate shield of humanity and harmony. When disaster strikes, our collective instinct is to look toward armed uniforms or state authorities for salvation. But this film tributes the uniforms nobody notices until the world is burning—the blood-stained aprons, the sterile hospital scrubs, the frayed civilian clothes. True courage does not wait for a badge, permission, or the promise of a medal. Every single frame of this motion poster compels us to look into the eyes of people who surrendered everything they had without ever demanding an audience. I feel a profound honour in being part of a film that carries their truth to the world.”
Dr. Jayantilal Gada (Pen Studios), Presenter and Producer, said, ” Our nation is held together by something far more human—empathy. In moments of crisis, an unspoken instinct takes over, where one Indian naturally steps in to protect another. That strength and shared resilience lie at the heart of Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata. For us at PEN Studios, supporting this film goes beyond commercial intent; it feels like preserving a truth we must not forget. We hope the film reminds audiences that the real architects of our destiny are not only those in power, but the ordinary people we encounter every day.”
Manoj Tapadia (Writer & Director) says, “In contemporary cinema, the easiest thing to capture on camera is the explosive loudness of the gunfire, the destruction, and the panic. From day one, I challenged our creative team to capture something infinitely more complex: the silence of bravery. We wanted to document that microscopic, split-second window where a common civilian looks at mortal danger, subdues their own survival instinct, and decides to become a human shield. Cinema has a unique, beautiful power to step inside a tragedy and capture its human soul. Our camera focuses on the intimate details, the racing heartbeat of a nurse holding a ward door shut, or a ward boy staying behind with patients when every instinct tells him to run. This motion poster serves as our living promise of that emotional honesty.”
Besides Kangana Ranaut, the ensemble cast features Girija Oak, Smita Tambe, Amrutha Namdev, Esha Dey, Priya Berde, Asha Shelar, Suhita Thatte, Rasika Aghase, Aditya Mishra, and Zahid Khan.
Presented by Dr. Jayantilal Gada (Pen Studios), Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata is produced by Pen Studios, Manikarnika Films, Paramhans Creations, In association with Eunoia Films LLP, and Floating Rocks Entertainment Pvt. Ltd. Written and directed by Manoj Tapadia, the film will be distributed by Pen Marudhar and is slated to release in theatres on June 12, 2026.
Director Prashanth Neel has shared details about his upcoming film Dragon, starring Jr NTR in the lead role. Set in 1967 and centred on the opium and heroin trade in Mumbai and Kolkata, the period action drama is scheduled for a worldwide release on 11 June 2027. The first glimpse was released on 20 May 2026, coinciding with Jr NTR’s birthday.
Speaking about the film, Prashanth Neel said, “My childhood basically becomes my biggest emotion in my movies and in Dragon also it is my biggest strength. This is more accurate than stories I’ve told before. This is set in Mumbai and Kolkata so cities are real, it’s a story I built around the opium trade, heroin trade and that did exist during britishers and after they left also so I’m just building an arena where real drama takes place, it’s a very realistic attempt at the 1967 period.”
The film’s ensemble cast includes Anil Kapoor, Rukmini Vasanth, Biju Menon, Khushbu Sundar, Guru Somasundaram, Ashutosh Rana and Rajeev Kanakala, among others. The first glimpse establishes Dragon as a period drama set against the backdrop of the international opium trade in the years following India’s independence.
This marks the first collaboration between Jr NTR and Prashanth Neel, who previously directed KGF: Chapter 1, KGF: Chapter 2 and Salaar. Jr NTR’s most recent theatrical release was Devara: Part 1 (2024).
Dragon is written and directed by Prashanth Neel and produced by Nandamuri Kalyan Ram under NTR Arts, Naveen Yerneni and Y. Ravi Shankar under Mythri Movie Makers, and Bhushan Kumar under T-Series. The film releases worldwide on 11 June 2027 in Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Kannada and Malayalam.
(@realbollywoodhungama)