Alia Bhatt shares Ranbir Kapoor’s Ramayana trailer with excited ‘Diwali 2026’ post

The much-awaited trailer of Ramayana, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, has finally been unveiled, adding to the growing excitement surrounding one of Indian cinema’s most ambitious projects. Released during the auspicious brahma muhurat at 4:15 a.m. on July 30, the trailer has generated widespread discussion across social media. While audience reactions have been mixed, several celebrities have praised the scale and visual grandeur of the film. Among them was actor Alia Bhatt, who expressed her excitement while extending support to her husband Ranbir Kapoor, who essays the role of Lord Rama.

Taking to her Instagram Stories, Alia shared the newly released Ramayana trailer with a short caption. Instead of a lengthy message, the actor simply added sparkle emojis along with the words, “DIWALI 2026,” hinting at her anticipation for the film’s theatrical release. Her post quickly caught the attention of fans, who viewed it as a heartfelt gesture of encouragement for Ranbir’s highly anticipated performance.

This is not the first time Alia has publicly backed the project. Earlier, in April 2026, ahead of the release of the first glimpse featuring Ranbir as Lord Rama, the actor had spoken about the film during a Zoom interaction with fans. She had urged audiences to support the project, saying, “Ramayana unit is going to be out tomorrow. It is the unit called the Rama unit. I’m going to be posting it on my social media, so again, please go out there and support it.”

Sharing her admiration for Ranbir’s work, Alia had further said, “It’s absolutely fabulous. I think Ranbir has just done such a beautiful job and I just can’t wait for you guys to see it. It’s just out of this world.”

The newly released trailer offers viewers a glimpse into the epic tale from the ancient Indian scripture. It opens with Yash’s imposing portrayal of Ravana, establishing the powerful ruler’s commanding presence before shifting focus to Lord Vishnu’s incarnation as Lord Rama, played by Ranbir Kapoor. Veteran actor Arun Govil appears as King Dashrath, introducing Rama as the prince who vows to safeguard humanity, even if it demands the ultimate sacrifice.

The trailer also recreates several iconic moments from the Ramayana, including the wedding of Rama and Sita, their 14-year exile, and the abduction of Sita. One of the key highlights is Lord Rama’s powerful declaration to Lakshman as he prepares to rescue Sita. He says, “If Ravana is the king of three worlds, then he will have to face his death in the three worlds.”

Ramayana: Part One boasts a star-studded cast featuring Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, Yash, Ravi Dubey, Vivek Oberoi, Saurabh Sachdeva, Lara Dutta, and Rakul Preet Singh, among others. The first installment is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release during Diwali on November 8, 2026, while the second part of the epic saga is expected to hit cinemas in 2027.

Also Read: Alia Bhatt urges fans to support Assam flood relief; says “It happens every year and it still catches us off guard”

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Adnan Sami records song for Akshay Kumar’s next with Anees Bazmee: “We had a blast”

Singer Adnan Sami has given fans an exciting update about Akshay Kumar’s upcoming untitled film. The musician recently revealed that he has recorded a song for the project and shared a glimpse from the recording studio on social media. Taking to Instagram, Adnan posted a picture featuring himself alongside director Anees Bazmee and music composer Anand Raaj Anand. The trio appeared to be in high spirits as they posed together after the recording session.

Adnan Sami Shares Recording Studio Update

Sharing the picture, Adnan wrote, “Just recorded a lovely song for an upcoming film of @akshaykumar, directed by the incredible @aneesbazmee with music composed by the fabulous @anandraajanandofficial. We had a blast during the recording session!”

While he did not reveal further details about the song, his post confirmed his association with the much-awaited project, adding to the anticipation surrounding the film.

About Akshay Kumar’s next with Anees Bazmee

The yet-untitled film is slated to hit theatres on December 4, 2026. Described as a big-screen family entertainer, the film is directed by Anees Bazmee and stars Akshay Kumar in the lead role.

The cast also includes Vidya Balan, Raashii Khanna, Vijay Raaz and Sudesh Lehri. Notably, the film marks the on-screen reunion of Akshay Kumar and Vidya Balan, a pairing that has delivered several successful films over the years and continues to enjoy strong audience appeal.

Kerala schedule wrapped

Earlier in May 2026, the makers completed a major shooting schedule in Kerala. At the time, reports suggested that a new still featuring Akshay Kumar would be unveiled soon as the film progressed through production.

The project is backed by producers Shirish Reddy and Kuldeep Rathore in collaboration with Cape of Good Films and Sri Venkateswara Creations. It also marks the landmark 60th production venture of Sri Venkateswara Creations, led by producer Dil Raju.

Also Read: SCOOP: After Akshay Kumar, Anees Bazmee in talks to direct Kartik Aaryan again in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 4

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BTS declines Grammy 2027 submission after Asian Pop category launch

BTS announced on Wednesday that it will not submit its music for consideration at the 69th Grammy Awards, scheduled for February 7, 2027. All seven members, RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook, posted the same statement on their individual Instagram accounts.

“We have decided not to submit for Grammy consideration this year. We hope our music can be heard and loved for what it is, rather than being divided by region or language. We thank Army and everyone who has always stood by us,” the group said.

The announcement comes just over a month after the Recording Academy introduced a new Best Asian Pop Music Performance category. The Academy described the category as recognising, “Artistic excellence in Asian pop music performances originating from or widely recognized within Asian markets, including but not limited to K-pop, J-pop and C-pop, with meaningful use of one or more Asian languages. Awards are presented to the performing artist(s).”

BTS has previously been nominated for Grammys, including in the Best Pop Duo/Group Performance and Best Music Video categories, but has never won. All seven members have been voting members of the Recording Academy since 2019.

Expectations for a first BTS win had been running high ahead of next year’s ceremony. The group released its fifth studio album, Arirang, in March following the completion of the members’ mandatory military service. The album topped Billboard’s main singles and albums charts, with lead single ‘SWIM’ debuting atop the Hot 100.

BTS is currently in the middle of the World Tour Arirang, which recently wrapped its European leg. The group’s Paris stop drew around 720,000 total attendees across the run.

Fresh off the final night of their Paris concerts, BTS headed straight to New Jersey, where they performed at the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Halftime Show on July 19, delivering their 2020 hit ‘Dynamite’ as part of an 11-minute set that shared the stage with Madonna, Shakira and Justin Bieber.

BTS is set to resume the tour’s U.S. leg starting August 1 in East Rutherford, the same stadium where the halftime show took place.

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Ali Fazal credits Shah Rukh Khan and Tom Cruise for reviving theatrical business after pandemic; says, “You felt like the gates opened back to the theatres”

When cinemas were struggling to recover after the pandemic, it took real star power to pull audiences back, and Ali Fazal believes he watched that moment unfold in both India and Hollywood. In conversation with Variety India, the actor spoke about how Shah Rukh Khan and Tom Cruise helped restore faith in the theatrical experience when the industry needed it most.

How Jawan changed the mood at the box office

Fazal pointed to Shah Rukh Khan’s Jawan as the film that reignited the Indian theatrical business, comparing it to Cruise’s impact through Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One.

He said, “Shah Rukh sir brought in Jawan and then suddenly you felt like the gates opened back to the theatres. It was so weird because around the same time, or maybe a little before that, Tom Cruise did that with Mission: Impossible.”

A luncheon that revealed Cruise’s pull

Fazal also recalled an encounter with Cruise at an Academy luncheon, where he said he saw up close how the Hollywood star commanded the room.

“I actually met him during the Academy. We were having a luncheon, and it was so nice to just see him bring the whole industry together in that room,” Fazal said, adding, “Even though he’s probably hardly been nominated for all these things, you could tell everybody got pulled in.”

Star power that benefits the industry

For Fazal, the influence of such stars extends beyond their individual films, creating a ripple effect across the industry.

“That’s what happened here,” he said, referring to Shah Rukh Khan’s impact on the Indian box office. “I’m really glad. I hope that keeps happening, so that the rest can happen, so that all of us can experiment a little more.”

According to Fazal, when event films succeed in drawing audiences back to theatres, they open the door for more diverse and ambitious storytelling.

Ali Fazal will next be seen in Mirzapur: The Movie, presented by Amazon MGM Studios and Excel Entertainment. Directed by Gurmeet Singh and written by Puneet Krishna, the film is produced by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar. It will release in theatres in Hindi and Telugu on September 4, 2026.

Also Read: Ali Fazal shares his experience of working with Sunny Deol in Batwara 1947; says, “Sunny sir is all heart”

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Prime Video India partners with CJ ENM to bring over 100 Korean titles; details inside!

Prime Video India has announced a multi-year distribution partnership with Korean entertainment company CJ ENM, expanding its Korean content catalogue for viewers in India. As part of the collaboration, more than 100 titles, including 26 new releases, will be made available on the platform over the next two years.

The agreement builds on the existing global partnership between Prime Video and CJ ENM, with a stronger focus on Indian audiences. The upcoming titles will be available with English subtitles as well as Hindi, Tamil and Telugu dubs.

Popular Korean titles to arrive over the next two years

The slate will begin with Yumi’s Cells Season Three and will also include upcoming series such as The Legend of Kitchen Soldier, My Bias, My Boss and Filing for Love. In addition, viewers will get access to several existing CJ ENM titles, including Dear X, Law in the City, Study Group, My Dearest Nemesis, Search: WWW, and the first two seasons of Yumi’s Cells.

The collection features a mix of romance, thriller, fantasy, drama and action, with actors including Kim You-jung, Lee Jong-suk, Park Ji-hoon and Cha Woo-min.

Prime Video on growing demand for Korean content

Speaking about the partnership, Shilangi Mukherji, Director and Head of SVOD Business at Prime Video India, said the collaboration reflects the increasing popularity of Korean stories among Indian audiences: “Building on our strong global relationship with CJ ENM and the deal announced last year, we’re excited to deepen this collaboration with a sharper focus on India. The popularity of Korean content has been remarkable across our Prime Video markets. Compelling narratives, diverse genres, and memorable characters that transcend borders have fueled a K-content wave that continues to gain momentum year on year. By bringing a curated slate of premium Korean titles to Prime Video, we’re doubling down on our commitment to making the most innovative and captivating stories from Korea accessible to audiences in India.”

Manish Menghani, Director and Head of Content Licensing at Prime Video India, said the partnership is driven by audience preferences: “At Prime Video India, we keep a keen eye on what our customers are watching and what stories resonate with them. The surge in popularity of K-content is undeniable. CJ ENM is one of the biggest entertainment studios in Korea, with an expansive library of much-loved titles. The continued success of our global content deal with CJ ENM is a testament to this growing demand. For us, this deal is not only the natural step forward, backed by customer preferences, but also a reflection of commitment to making Prime Video India the go-to destination for the best international content.”

CJ ENM looks to strengthen presence in India

Jangho Seo, Executive Vice President of Platform Division at CJ ENM, said the company sees India as an important market for expanding the reach of Korean storytelling: “We are pleased to collaborate with Prime Video India to bring CJ ENM’s acclaimed K-dramas to a wider audience in one of the world’s most dynamic entertainment markets. Prime Video’s unmatched reach in India, combined with its deep investment in local audiences, makes it the ideal partner to amplify our content to millions of new viewers. This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to expanding the global reach of Korean storytelling.”

The new titles will be available to Prime members in India at no additional cost as part of their subscription.

Also Read: San Diego Comic-Con: Prime Video announces Matthew Needham as the voice of The Joker in Batman: Caped Crusader Season Two

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Photos: Anya Singh spotted outside a Gigi restaurant in Bandra

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Photos: Mrunal Thakur spotted outside a cafe in Bandra

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Photos: Sandeepa Dhar snapped outside dance class in Khar

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Ruchir Arun says Vikrant Massey was always the first choice for Musafir Cafe

Director Ruchir Arun’s latest series Musafir Cafe premiered on Netflix on July 24. Starring Vikrant Massey, Vedika Pinto and Mahima Makwana, the series is based on Divya Prakash Dubey’s novel of the same name. Speaking about adapting the book for the screen, Ruchir clarified that the screenplay had largely been developed before he joined the project. However, he said the characters immediately drew him to the story.

“By the time I came on board, the first drafts of the screenplay had already been written by our showrunner and writer, Sharanya Rajgopal. What immediately struck me were the names of the characters, Chander, Sudha and Preeti. They felt familiar. As a director, my focus was on preserving the soul of these characters and making audiences believe they were real people,” he said.

Vikrant Massey was always the first choice for Musafir Cafe

Talking about casting Vikrant Massey as Chander, Ruchir said the actor was always at the top of the team’s wishlist. “It’s always a pleasure to direct an experienced actor like Vikrant. He was always our first choice for Chander, and after working with him, it’s difficult to imagine anyone else in the role. The honesty he brought every day made the character feel relatable and lived-in,” he shared.

The filmmaker also said audiences today connect with grounded romantic leads rather than larger-than-life heroes. “We need stories about decent people, people like us. Men who are the so-called green flags. Vikrant’s Chander reminds us that kindness, vulnerability and sincerity can be deeply attractive,” he added.

Musafir Cafe director says, “Love stories never go out of fashion”

Reflecting on romance as a genre, Ruchir said love stories continue to resonate because they explore universal emotions. “I think love stories never go out of fashion because the desire to love and be loved is universal. The challenge is simply to tell those stories honestly. While Musafir Cafe has the charm of a classic romance, its characters deal with very contemporary questions about relationships, timing and personal growth,” he said.

According to the director, authenticity comes from observing real life and translating those emotions to the screen. “If the emotion is honest, people will find themselves in it,” he added.

Apart from Musafir Cafe, Ruchir is currently directing Nazdeekiyan, starring Nikita Dutta, Taha Shah Badussha, Paresh Pahuja and Aakansha Singh.

Without revealing much about the project, he said it is a mature love story centred on two couples and will stream on Amazon Prime Video.

“It’s my first collaboration with Dharma Productions, and I’m excited to tell another heartfelt love story. While Musafir Cafe explores how love evolves over time, Nazdeekiyan looks at relationships through a different lens,” he said.

Also Read: Vedika Pinto opens up about filming intimate scenes with Vikrant Massey in Musafir Cafe; says, “Once you feel safe, you stop worrying”

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Web Series Review: MUSAFIR CAFE is a relatable romantic drama with Vikrant Massey and Vedika Pinto’s fine acts

Star Cast: Vikrant Massey, Vedika Pinto, Mahima Makwana

Director: Ruchir Arun

Synopsis:
MUSAFIR CAFE is the story of three characters at a crossroads, unfolding across two timelines. In 2018, Chander Mohan Sharma (Vikrant Massey) lives alone in Bhopal, away from his mother (Anubha Fatehpuria), and works at a company called DWD Logistics. At his mother’s insistence, he meets prospective brides for an arranged marriage. During one such meeting, he crosses paths with Sudha Tripathi (Vedika Pinto), a lawyer. Though they initially reject each other, they soon grow attracted to one another. Circumstances eventually lead them to start living together in Chander’s flat. A parallel track is set eight years later, in 2026. Chander has fulfilled his dream of opening Musafir Cafe in Mussoorie. He runs the cafe with his partner, Preeti Kaushik (Mahima Makwana). The two are deeply in love, but Chander is yet to completely move on from Sudha. What happens next forms the rest of the series.

Musafir Cafe Story Review:
MUSAFIR CAFE is based on a book by Divya Prakash Dubey. The story is relatable and deals with the complexities of modern-day dating. Sharanya Rajgopal’s screenplay is breezy and filled with moments from everyday life. At the same time, the writing leaves a lot to be desired, especially in the present-day portions. Sharanya Rajgopal’s dialogues are witty and add to the humour.

Ruchir Arun’s direction is simple and effective. The show goes against the prevailing trend, as it features no violence, bloodshed or abusive language. Even the intimate scenes are treated aesthetically, making the series comfortable to watch with the family. The track involving Chander and Sudha is highly memorable, and one is likely to have a smile throughout their scenes. Moreover, the supporting characters complement their love story well, while their introductory scenes are entertaining, be it Mala Didi or Chander’s mother. The latter’s entry sequence, in particular, is hilarious. The conflicts that arise in Chander and Sudha’s relationship add the required drama. Since both timelines run parallel, one remains intrigued to know what transpired between them. Lastly, the episodes are short, and the entire series has a runtime of just around four hours.

On the flipside, while the makers present the Chander-Sudha love story in all its glory, they fail to do equal justice to the track involving Chander and Preeti. Their first meeting and the development of their relationship are merely explained through dialogue. In the absence of visual representation, their love story fails to create the desired impact. Similarly, the track involving Mark (Adil Hussain) and Nilima (Sadiya Siddiqui) seems half-baked. Viewers learn how they entered the protagonists’ lives and what happened to them later, but the events in between remain largely unexplored. Rahil Qureshi’s (Rajeev Siddhartha) character also fails to leave the desired impact. The climax is abrupt and ends on a cliffhanger, which might not appeal to all viewers. Ironically, a show that extensively explores the idea of closure fails to provide closure to its audience. Another issue is that even the otherwise engaging Chander-Sudha romantic track might leave viewers puzzled, as Sudha’s behaviour at certain crucial moments comes across as unfair.

Musafir Cafe Performances:
Vikrant Massey, who has been seen in intense and even negative roles lately, brings back his OG romantic side. He slips into such roles effortlessly and moreover, his performance is now even more nuanced in such characters. He also convincingly passes off as a man in his mid-20s in the 2018 scenes. Vedika Pinto outshines everyone else in the show and delivers a power-packed performance, even though some of her character’s actions are bewildering. Mahima Makwana puts up a sincere performance and one wishes her character had more to do in the show. Anubha Fatehpuria is very memorable, especially in her entry scene. Adil Hussain delivers an adorable performance while Sadiya Siddiqui lends able support. Rajeev Siddhartha is fine but is let down by the writing. Ranjana Aanjjan Srivastav (Mala Didi) delivers an entertaining performance and same applies to Ismeet Kaur Kohli (Gargi). Loveleen Mishra (Sudha’s mother) and Karan Mally (Kushal Pandit; also the show’s casting director) are fair.

Musafir Cafe music and other technical aspects:
The songs are well-woven into the narrative. The male and female versions of ‘Tera Hua Sahiba’ are the best of the lot, followed by ‘Kaafi Hai Na’, ‘Kaisi Jadugari’ and ‘Rozaana’. Neel Adhikari’s background score is non-interfering and flows beautifully.

Aniruddha Patankar’s cinematography is spectacular. The locales of Mussoorie are captured beautifully, yet the cinematography never makes the show resemble a tourism advertisement. Naveen Lohara’s production design is classy. Rohini Bose’s costumes are realistic and stylish, especially the ones worn by Vikrant Massey and Vedika Pinto. Yasha Jaidev Ramchandani’s editing is slick and unhurried.

Musafir Cafe Review Conclusion:
On the whole, MUSAFIR CAFE is a warm, breezy and relatable romantic drama, elevated by Vikrant Massey and Vedika Pinto’s performances, witty dialogues, soothing music and picturesque visuals. However, the underdeveloped parallel tracks and abrupt climax dilute its overall impact.

Rating – 3 stars

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Vaani Kapoor voices support for students protests: “My heart has been with the young people”

Vaani Kapoor has added her voice to the growing number of celebrities expressing support for students amid the ongoing protests across the country. The actress took to Instagram to share a heartfelt message, praising the determination and unity displayed by young people while encouraging empathy and meaningful dialogue.

In her Instagram note, Vaani reflected on the courage shown by students and expressed her admiration for their efforts. She wrote, “My heart has been with the young people through all of this. Seeing them come together for the future they believe in with such hope, courage and conviction has been deeply moving.”

The actress also highlighted the importance of responding to students with compassion and understanding rather than indifference. Continuing her message, she added, “I hope they’re met with empathy, understanding and a genuine willingness to listen.” Vaani concluded her post with the Indian flag and a white heart emoji, symbolising solidarity, hope and peace.

 

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Her statement comes at a time when student demonstrations have sparked widespread discussions across the country, with several actors and public figures sharing their views on social media. Over the past few days, a number of celebrities have publicly voiced support for students, stressing the need to acknowledge their concerns and engage in constructive conversations.

Vaani’s message quickly drew attention online, with many fans praising her for speaking on the issue. Several social media users appreciated the actress for her thoughtful words, describing her post as compassionate and encouraging. Others reshared her message, helping it reach a wider audience as conversations surrounding the protests continued to gain momentum.

Rather than making an elaborate political statement, Vaani chose to focus on the resilience, hope and conviction demonstrated by the students. Her message centred on the importance of empathy, mutual respect and open communication, striking a chord with many followers who believe that listening to young voices is essential.

As the nationwide discussions around the student protests continue, Vaani Kapoor’s Instagram post has emerged as another notable celebrity response. By expressing solidarity with students and advocating for compassion and understanding, the actress has contributed to the broader public conversation while reinforcing the call for meaningful engagement with the concerns raised by young people.

Also Read : Bollywood Hungama Style Icon Awards Glamour: Ananya Panday, Sharvari, Pooja Hegde, Manushi Chhillar, and Vaani Kapoor serve standout fashion moments

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Vikrant Massey opens up about industry bias and the impact of his National Award win; says, “There’s a lot more trust now”

Vikrant Massey has reflected on the transformative impact of 12th Fail on his career, revealing how the film not only earned him the National Film Award for Best Actor last year but also changed the industry’s perception of him. In an exclusive conversation with News18, the actor admitted that the recognition has opened new opportunities and increased the confidence filmmakers have in him.

Speaking about the shift, Vikrant said, “The access to certain rooms has increased. I wouldn’t deny that. But that’s the nature of life.” Despite the newfound recognition, he clarified that he never felt resentful about receiving appreciation only after the success of 12th Fail. “Not just in the film industry but also in sports, politics and the corporate world, if you’ve achieved a benchmark, the world starts seeing you differently. It really doesn’t surprise me. I’m not bitter about the fact that log mujhe National Award ya 12th Fail ke baad alag nazar se dekh rahe hai,” he shared, adding, “I always aware of this facet of life. It was like this before me and it will remain that way even after I’m gone.”

The actor also recalled a candid conversation with filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra during the making of 12th Fail. Calling Chopra his mentor, Vikrant said, “He’s my mentor and someone who has handheld me throughout my journey and continues to do that. He told me, ‘Why would someone pay their hard earned money to watch you in a theatre when they can easily access you on Netflix? Woh apne ghar pe baithke tujhe dekh sakte hai.’ That has changed now.”

Vikrant believes audience trust has grown significantly since then. “There’s a lot more trust now. I realise there’s a lot more responsibility on me. I recognise that there’s a certain section of people who are shelling out their money to watch me. I want to be worth their time and money,” he said.

The Musafir Cafe actor also spoke about the prejudice he faced while transitioning from television to films. Having started his acting career with the TV show Dhoom Machaao Dhoom, Vikrant said the industry often looked down upon television actors. “I come from TV, a medium which is extremely powerful. But your professional circle tends to look down upon it. But the lines are blurring now and that has happened with the advent of OTT,” he remarked.

He further revealed that being labelled a “TV actor” used to offend him because it reflected a bias. “Today, you don’t refer to an actor who began their career with TV as a ‘TV actor’ like the way it used to be. I would really get offended when a supersedure would describe me as a TV actor. An actor is an actor. Usko badalne ke liye maine bahot koshish ki,” Vikrant concluded.

Also Read : Vikrant Massey credits son Vardaan for National Award win: “A lot of things have changed since he came”

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Kubbra Sait on the right to question systems; says,”Fixing the system does not mean hating it”

Actor and author Kubbra Sait shared her thoughts on the right to question systems and institutions in a recent video posted on social media, stating that raising concerns should not be mistaken for opposition.

In the video, Kubbra used an analogy to explain her perspective. She asked viewers to imagine living in a building where the lift had been dysfunctional for years, and when a resident approached the building secretary requesting that it be repaired, the response they received was, “So you hate this building?”

According to Kubbra, that reaction misses the point entirely. “I live in this building. I love this building. I just want the lift to be fixed,” she said, drawing a parallel to how criticism is often perceived in society.

The actor noted that when people point out problems, the focus frequently shifts from the issue itself to questioning the intentions of the person raising it. “The moment someone says something isn’t working, you stop listening to the problem. We start judging the person,” she said.

Referring to students who have taken to the streets to question the examination system, Kubbra said that before deciding whether protesters are right or wrong, it is important to understand why they are protesting. She said those raising their voices often do so because they feel unheard. Kubbra’s comments have resonated with many online. Her message reflects a broader principle that questioning systems and seeking accountability should not be viewed as acts of hostility, but as efforts to improve the institutions people care about.

She said that asking for the lift to be fixed does not mean hating the building, it means wanting it to work better for everyone.

Also Read: Kubbra Sait applauds Madhuri after watching Lock Upp episode: “She made me cry”

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Saif Ali Khan makes an attention grabbing appearance at Lord’s Stadium; heritage-inspired Winchester College tie becomes the highlight of his look

Saif Ali Khan made a stylish appearance at the recently concluded India vs England Test match at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground in London, but it wasn’t just his sharp tailoring that caught the internet’s attention. While the actor exuded effortless sophistication in a well-cut suit, it was a subtle accessory—his tie—that sparked curiosity among fashion enthusiasts and fans alike.

The actor was seen sporting an Old Wykehamist tie, the official alumni tie of Winchester College, one of England’s oldest and most prestigious educational institutions. More than just a fashion statement, the tie carries deep cultural significance in the United Kingdom, where wearing an old school tie is considered a proud symbol of one’s heritage, educational legacy, and lifelong connection to an institution.

Saif’s choice of accessory resonated with many who admire his understated yet thoughtful approach to style. Rather than opting for a bold designer logo or a trend-driven piece, the actor chose an item rooted in personal history and tradition. The Old Wykehamist tie is instantly recognizable among Winchester College alumni and reflects a long-standing British custom that continues to hold significance even decades after graduation.

Known for his refined sartorial choices, Saif Ali Khan has often embraced classic menswear with an appreciation for history and craftsmanship. Whether attending film events, public appearances, or international gatherings, the actor frequently incorporates timeless tailoring and heritage-inspired elements into his wardrobe, making his fashion choices stand out for their elegance rather than extravagance.

 

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His appearance at Lord’s also generated buzz among cricket lovers, as several celebrities were spotted enjoying the much-anticipated India vs England clash. Fans on social media praised Saif’s polished look, with many appreciating the story behind the tie after learning about its association with Winchester College.

The appearance once again reinforced Saif’s reputation as one of Bollywood’s most stylish actors, proving that meaningful details can often make the strongest fashion statement.

On the professional front, Saif Ali Khan is gearing up for the release of Haiwaan, directed by Priyadarshan. The film marks his reunion with Akshay Kumar, a pairing that has delivered several memorable films over the years. Scheduled to hit theatres on September 11, Haiwaan is among the most anticipated releases on Saif’s upcoming slate, with fans eager to see the duo reunite on the big screen once again.

Also Read: Saif Ali Khan steps into a visually challenged hero role in Haiwaan: “It is one of the most amazing roles”

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EXCLUSIVE: Onir “DISHEARTED” with 72nd National Awards winners, says All We Imagine As Light, Laapataa Ladies and others deserved recognition

The 72^nd National Film Awards were announced last evening for the films released in 2024. Following the announcement, there has been a wave of happiness amongst the winners as well as their fans and admirers. Hence, the social media is flooded with congratulatory messages being poured in on the winners. On the other hand, the winners have shared statements of gratitude for their win.

However, there is a section of the audience that is disappointed with the results of the awards and they have been vocal. But there are very few people from the film fraternity itself who have voiced their disappointment towards the same. One among them is filmmaker Onir.

The My Brother Nikhil director took to his X (formerly Twitter) and posted, “They Have TOTALLY LOST TEH PLOT. #72ndNationalFilmAwards.”

They Have TOTALLY LOST TEH PLOT.#72ndNationalFilmAwards

— iamOnir (@IamOnir) July 18, 2026

Bollywood Hungama contacted Onir to ask if he wishes to elaborate on why he is disappointed with the results of the National Award winners. The filmmaker politely refused for an interview but sent a text message saying why he is disappointed to see certain films being ignored by the National Awards jury.

Onir said, “Just disheartening not to see All We Imagine As Light, Laapataa Ladies or Girls Will Be Girls being recognised for film, director or actors (awards). And Diljit Dosanjh in Amar Singh Chamkila.”

Directed by Payal Kapadia, All We Imagine As Light made India proud at Cannes Film Festival by being the first film from the country in 30 years to win the prestigious Grand Prix. Hence, there were hopes from the film’s admirers for its triumph at this year’s National Awards.

Also Read: Ajay Devgn in Maidaan, Laapataa Ladies, Fahadh Faasil in Aavesham, Manjummel Boys: 7 acclaimed films and performances that were SHOCKINGLY ignored by 72nd National Film Awards

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72nd National Film Awards: Prabhas celebrates Kalki 2898 AD wins; says, “A proud honour for the entire Kalki family”

Kalki 2898 AD added another milestone to its journey after securing two honours at the 72nd National Film Awards. The Nag Ashwin directorial won the award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment, while Nitin Zihani Choudhary was recognised with the Best Production Design award for his work on the film.

Following the announcement, lead actor Prabhas celebrated the achievement on social media by sharing the official National Award announcement poster on his Instagram Stories. Expressing his happiness over the recognition, the actor wrote, “A proud honour for the entire #Kalki2898AD family….”

The production banner, Vyjayanthi Films, also marked the occasion by sharing a note thanking audiences and everyone associated with the project for contributing to its success. “This recognition is a celebration of every artist, technician, and every heart behind #Kalki2898AD. Thank you for believing in our vision and making this journey truly special. The next chapter carries not just our vision, but your belief. We promise to make the wait for #Kalki2 worth it,” the production house wrote on Instagram.

 

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Directed by Nag Ashwin, Kalki 2898 AD released in 2024 and blended mythology with science fiction in a futuristic narrative. The film was noted for its large-scale production, visual effects and expansive world-building, emerging as one of the biggest commercial successes of the year.

The film features an ensemble cast led by Prabhas, alongside Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Deepika Padukone, Disha Patani and several others in pivotal roles. Upon release, it received appreciation for its visual scale, production values and ambitious storytelling.

The National Film Awards recognition further adds to the film’s list of achievements, with the Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment honour acknowledging its widespread appeal, while the Best Production Design award recognises the extensive effort that went into creating its futuristic cinematic universe.

Meanwhile, anticipation continues to surround Kalki 2, the sequel to the blockbuster. While the makers have confirmed that the story will continue in a second instalment, work on the film is yet to begin as the principal cast is currently occupied with other commitments.

With two National Film Awards now to its credit, Kalki 2898 AD has further strengthened its position as one of the notable Indian films of 2024, while Prabhas and the team continue to celebrate the recognition received at one of the country’s most prestigious honours for cinema.

Also Read: 72nd National Film Awards: Amaran, Bramayugam, Kalki 2898 AD lead South Indian cinema winners

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Arshad Warsi starrer Jeevan Bheema Yojana to release on August 28

The makers of Jeevan Bheema Yojana have announced the release date of the upcoming dark comedy crime thriller. Headlined by Arshad Warsi, the film is slated to arrive in cinemas worldwide next month. Directed by Abhishek Dogra, the project marks the first time in Warsi’s career that he will be seen in a double role.

The film revolves around Arshad Warsi’s dual characters, Jeevan and Bheema—a debt-ridden common man and his dangerous lookalike—whose lives intersect in unexpected circumstances, leading to a series of chaotic events. Sanjeeda Shaikh plays Yojana, a resourceful wife who devises an ambitious fraud, while Vijay Raaz essays the role of Vinayak, a mysterious man with secrets that gradually unfold.

Sharing details about the film, director Abhishek Dogra said, “Jeevan Bheema Yojana is a film about ordinary people making one extraordinary, catastrophic decision — and then spending the rest of the film paying for it. The genre is dark comedy, but the heart of it is very human. Greed, desperation, love, and the terrible momentum of a lie you can’t stop telling. Arshad brings both men to life with a precision that constantly surprised us on set.”

Raman Raheja, Director of StarBeam Ventures Ltd and co-producer, also spoke about the project, saying, “This is the first of the multiple releases lined up by StarBeam Ventures Ltd in the next 6-12 months and what better way to start than having the ever-loved Arshad Warsi featuring in a double role for the first time in his career. Audiences will love it.”

The announcement adds another project to Arshad Warsi’s upcoming slate, with the actor exploring a dual-character narrative for the first time. Directed by Abhishek Dogra, Jeevan Bheema Yojana combines elements of crime, dark humour and family drama, with the story centring on how one decision triggers an increasingly complicated chain of events.

Presented and produced by StarBeam Ventures Ltd (formerly Blue God Entertainment Ltd), Jeevan Bheema Yojana also features Pooja Chopra, Bijendra Kala and the late Atul Parchure in pivotal roles.

With its ensemble cast and a premise built around mistaken identity and deception, Jeevan Bheema Yojana is set to release in cinemas worldwide on August 28, 2026.

Also Read: Vir Hirani thanks Arshad Warsi after Pritam and Pedro debut; says, “Having you by my side made all the difference”

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Photos: Ranbir Kapoor spotted outside a Kalina airport

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Sameera Reddy opens up about body shaming during her 2002 debut; says, “I was made two to three shades lighter”

Sameera Reddy has spoken candidly about the unrealistic beauty standards she encountered during the early years of her Bollywood career. Looking back at her acting debut in the 2002 film Maine Dil Tujhko Diya, the actress revealed that she was asked to alter her appearance to fit industry expectations, including lightening her skin tone with makeup and wearing padded bras.

Speaking in an interview with Hauterrfly, Sameera recalled, “In my first film, Maine Dil Tujhko Diya, I was made two to three shades lighter. I almost looked grey! I used to do full body makeup to match the colour of my face with my body.” She said these practices reflected the rigid beauty standards that were prevalent at the time.

Questioning society’s perception of beauty, the actress added, “Do you know how many women have it in their own families? Her own parents and in-laws say, ‘You’re dark or fat.’ What the hell! Who has given the definition of beauty?”

Sameera admitted that accepting herself was a long journey that took over two decades. Reflecting on her struggles with self-image, she said, “The confusion with what I had to represent, what I’m selling, and who I am — I have to say it was only in my 40s that I broke it! It took me 20 years because for all these years, I was wearing only padded bras, bum pads, and coloured lenses.”

The actress also shared that comments about her body began early in her career. “I was always ‘pleasantly plump’ since my childhood, as I’d like to put it. When I lost weight, I was told, ‘Your bum is flat.’ Today, I can laugh about it. I was struggling till my 30s with my identity that I’m not that fair, I don’t have light eyes, and I’m not too tall! I used to hunch and walk because my hero wasn’t tall. But now I’m like, ‘That’s not my problem, bro! You wear heels!’ At that time, it was such a problem. So, what do you do? You make the girl feel bad,” she said.

Sameera further revealed that the pressure to change her appearance also came from members of the film crew. “Even the dress designers told me right from the start that I had to do something about it. So, all my outfits had built-in bras with pads. And I’ve to tell you I’ve the best collection of pads! I was told so many times, ‘How much can we try with the pads, Sameera? Just do something about it. What is it going to take, anyway?’” she recalled.

Maine Dil Tujhko Diya marked the Bollywood debut of both Sameera Reddy and Sohail Khan, who also wrote, directed and produced the film. After a 14-year break from Hindi cinema, Sameera recently returned to the big screen with Abhijeet Mohan Warang’s political drama Aakhri Sawal, which released in theatres on May 15.

Also Read : Aakhri Sawal trailer: Sanjay Dutt vows to give the final answer to the final question

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Anupam Kher, Anubhav Sinha among top honourees as NIFFA 2026 concludes

The National Indian Film Festival of Australia (NIFFA) concluded its 2026 edition with grand closing ceremonies held across Brisbane and the Gold Coast, marking another successful chapter in its journey as one of the largest showcases of Indian cinema outside India. Bringing together filmmakers, industry professionals and cinema enthusiasts from both nations, the festival celebrated storytelling while strengthening cultural and creative ties between India and Australia.

Among the biggest winners, Jeejivisha Kale’s Marathi drama Tighee (Motherhood) secured the Best Indie Feature award, while Ankur Arun Kakatkar’s Mumbai-based romance Courage was named Best International Indie Feature. Chintan Kamlesh Parekh’s documentary Gottipua: Beyond Borders, which premiered globally at the festival, won Best Documentary. Meanwhile, Khwabeeda, directed by Beybaar and Vishal Tiwari, received the Best Short Film honour in association with Pocket Films.

Adding to the significance of the awards, the producers of both winning feature films are graduates of Australian film schools, reflecting the growing influence of Australia-trained filmmakers in India’s independent cinema landscape.

The festival also recognised several notable personalities from the Indian film industry. Veteran actor Anupam Kher was presented with the Indian International Cinema Icon Award, while filmmakers Anubhav Sinha and Leena Yadav received the prestigious Nishtha Awards. Trade analyst Komal Nahta was honoured with the Vimarsh Samman.

NIFFA 2026 expanded its reach more than ever before, covering over 13 Australian cities through more than 200 screenings, workshops, masterclasses, red-carpet events and special presentations. More than 32 films in 15 Indian languages were showcased across metropolitan centres, regional towns and outback locations.

Festival Director Anupam Sharma reflected on the event’s growing impact, saying, “In a short time NIFFA became something bigger – a national platform where cinema, culture, community and commerce between India and Australia meet in real time. This is very important in the current environment of anti-immigration and pro-monocultural narratives being attempted.”

Queensland politician Hon John-Paul Langbroek MP also praised the initiative, stating, “Festivals such as NIFFA play an important role in connecting communities, celebrating cultural exchange and showcasing the power of storytelling to bring people together… we are delighted to host a festival that strengthens the cultural and creative ties between Australia and India.”

The festival also announced a three-year partnership with Destination NSW and a two-year collaboration with the Northern Territory, paving the way for greater discussions around filming opportunities, co-productions and creative partnerships between India and Australia. With strong backing from government bodies and film organisations in both countries, NIFFA 2026 once again highlighted cinema’s ability to foster cultural understanding and deepen international collaboration.

Also Read : Anupam Kher breaks silence on Ram Mandir controversy; says, “I was never scared before, I’m not scared today”

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