Rani Mukerji extends heartfelt gratitude as West Bengal Governor honours her with Vande Mataram Puraskar for completing 30 years in Cinema

Actor Rani Mukerji has been conferred with the Vande Mataram Puraskar, the West Bengal Governor’s Award of Excellence, in recognition of her contribution to Indian cinema. The honour comes in a significant year for the actor, as she completes 30 years in the film industry.

In a statement issued on the occasion, Rani Mukerji expressed her gratitude and reflected on her personal and cultural ties to West Bengal. She also acknowledged her parents and the influence of Bengali culture on her life and career. Her full statement reads, “Today, my heart is filled with a kind of emotion that is difficult to put into words. Winning the Governor’s Award of Excellence – the Vande Mataram Puraskar – on my 30th year in cinema feels incredibly humbling. This honour is not just a recognition of my work—it feels like a homecoming, a warm hug from West Bengal, my roots. I only hope I have done you proud and will continue doing so.
Though my journey as an actor unfolded largely in Hindi cinema, my roots have always been deeply, unmistakably Bengali. They live in my values, in my discipline, in my love for art, literature, and above all, in the way I see life—with resilience, warmth, and quiet strength.
I was born into a family where celebrating culture was a way of living. Music, cinema, storytelling, and intellectual curiosity were part of everyday conversation. And at the centre of that world stood my mother.
My parents , proud Bengalis, taught me that strength does not need to be loud. They taught me grace, self-respect, and the importance of standing your ground with dignity. Whatever courage I have shown in my career, whatever choices I have dared to make, have come from watching them live their life with honesty. This honour belongs as much to them as it does to me and I wish my mother and me could have been here amongst all of you today. I sincerely regret not being able to make it but I thank you from the bottom of my heart for honouring me with one of the highest civilian awards of West Bengal!

“Bengal has always been the land of thinkers, poets, rebels, and artists. From Tagore to Ray, this soil has given India minds and voices that changed the way we think and feel. To be acknowledged by this land is a privilege I will carry with deep humility. I accept this honour with gratitude, with pride, and with a renewed sense of responsibility—to continue contributing to Indian cinema with sincerity, and to always remain worthy of the values Bengal has given me.
Thank you, West Bengal, for always claiming me as your own and always showering so much love on your child. It is truly precious.”, it read further.

The Vande Mataram Puraskar is among the highest civilian honours awarded by the state of West Bengal and is presented to individuals for excellence and distinguished service in their respective fields.

On the professional front, Rani Mukerji will next be seen in Mardaani 3, directed by Abhiraj Minawala and produced by Aditya Chopra. The film continues the Mardaani franchise, which has previously addressed issues such as human trafficking and violent crime. The third instalment is expected to explore another serious social issue, in line with the themes established by the earlier films.

Mardaani 3 is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on January 30, 2026. The film also coincides with Rani Mukerji’s 30-year milestone in cinema, making the year particularly notable in her career.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: CBFC replaces ‘bachhi’ with ‘ladki’ in Mardaani 3; modifies slapping visuals

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Parvathy Thiruvothu drops a special Republic Day message; sparks reflection on power, unity and responsibility

On the occasion of Republic Day, National Award-winning actor Parvathy Thiruvothu shared a powerful and introspective message that went beyond celebration, urging citizens to reflect on the deeper meaning of being a true republic. Marking the day with rare images from India’s first Republic Day celebrations, the actor revisited the values, responsibilities and collective power that form the foundation of the nation.

Accompanying the archival photographs was a strongly worded caption that called for awareness, unity and active citizenship. In her message, Parvathy wrote, “Now more than ever, we are called to remember what being a true republic nation means. To remember the power we hold as people of our nation. To stay aware, informed and fight propaganda and misinformation; let’s unite as one to ensure each and everyone deserves a dignified, respectful life in our country. On this Republic Day, I urge you to reflect and work on your core values — and be rid of anything that comes from a place of hatred and indoctrination. As a people, each and every individual holds immense power to turn things around. Wield that power for the good of your fellow citizens, to ensure your government delivers safety and security to all. Remember to lead from a place of love! ”.

 

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Through her post, Parvathy emphasised that the idea of a republic extends far beyond constitutional structures and national ceremonies. She highlighted the responsibility of individuals to remain informed, resist misinformation and actively participate in shaping a society rooted in dignity, respect and equality.

The actor’s message also underlined the importance of unity and compassion, suggesting that democratic values must be practised in everyday life to ensure safety and security for all citizens. By stressing that every individual holds the power to bring about change, Parvathy reinforced the idea that democracy thrives when people engage thoughtfully and ethically.

Her Republic Day reflection struck a chord with many, offering a reminder that the strength of a nation lies not only in its institutions, but in the values its people choose to uphold consistently.

On the work front, Parvathy Thiruvothu continues to maintain a strong presence across industries. She will next be seen in the Malayalam films Pradhama Dhrishtya Kuttakkar and I, Nobody, while her upcoming Hindi project Storm, produced by Hrithik Roshan, also remains highly anticipated.

With her Republic Day post, Parvathy once again used her voice to spark meaningful dialogue, encouraging citizens to reflect, engage and lead with empathy.

Also Read: “It still hasn’t settled”: Parvathy Reflects on losing Irrfan Khan and Puneeth Rajkumar

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Aparshakti Khurana unveils intense new look from Tamil debut ROOT – Running Out Of Time

Aparshakti Khurana is all set to make a striking entry into Tamil cinema, and the latest poster of his upcoming film ROOT – Running Out Of Time has only added to the growing anticipation. The actor, known for his versatility across genres, looks intense and enigmatic in the newly unveiled character poster from the sci-fi thriller, signalling a significant new phase in his career.

The poster was revealed on the occasion of Republic Day by acclaimed filmmaker A R Murugadoss, who took to social media to officially introduce Aparshakti Khurana’s character from the film. Sharing the poster, Murugadoss wrote, “Happy to reveal the second look from the world of #ROOT – This is where it begins.” The reveal immediately grabbed attention, with fans and industry insiders decoding the darker undertones of Aparshakti’s appearance.

 

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Going by the poster, Aparshakti appears to be playing a crucial role with a strong air of mystery surrounding it. His chilling stare, controlled stillness and restrained intensity hint at a character deeply intertwined with the film’s science-fiction narrative. The look suggests a darker, more layered avatar, marking a departure from some of the lighter roles he has been widely loved for in Hindi cinema.

Celebrated for his performances in films such as Dangal, Stree, Pati Patni Aur Woh and Stree 2, as well as the critically acclaimed series Jubilee, Aparshakti Khurana’s Tamil debut has naturally heightened expectations around ROOT – Running Out Of Time. His inclusion adds to the film’s pan-Indian appeal, especially among audiences familiar with his body of work.

The film also stars Gautham Ram Karthik in a pivotal role. His character poster was unveiled earlier this month by superstar Rajinikanth, further boosting the buzz surrounding the project and setting the tone for its ambitious scale.

Written and directed by Sooriyaprathap S, ROOT – Running Out Of Time is backed by producers Shaik Mujeeb, RajaRajan Gnanasambandam, Sanjai Shankar and Dhanishtan Fernando under the banner of Verus Productions. Alongside Aparshakti Khurana and Gautham Ram Karthik, the ensemble cast features Narain, Bhavya Trikha, Y Gee Mahendra, Pavni Reddy, Linga and RJ Anandhi in key roles.

Currently in its post-production stage, ROOT – Running Out Of Time is shaping up to be an intriguing sci-fi thriller, with Aparshakti Khurana’s intense new look adding another compelling layer to the film’s growing intrigue.

Also Read: Ayushmann Khurrana drops a fun birthday post for brother Aparshakti and it is winning the internet!

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Karan Johar cheers Gujarati Cinema’s big moment, applauds Laalo director Ankit Sakhiya after Rs.100-Crore success

Gujarati cinema continues to command national attention, and its latest landmark moment came as filmmaker Karan Johar met Laalo – Krishna Sada Sahaayate director Ankit Sakhiya in Mumbai. The interaction followed the remarkable success of Laalo, which recently made history by becoming the first Gujarati film to cross the Rs.100-crore mark at the box office.

For Ankit Sakhiya, the meeting was both emotional and validating. Sharing his gratitude on Instagram after the interaction, the debut director wrote, “Thank you, @karanjohar sir, for taking the time to meet me today. As a first-time director, this moment holds a very special place in my heart. Our conversation about Gujarati cinema, and the importance of having conviction as a filmmaker, truly meant a lot to me. Your kind appreciation for Gujarati films and our industry was deeply encouraging. Thank you once again — from the entire team of Laalo.”

Johar’s appreciation is being seen as a significant endorsement for Gujarati cinema at a time when regional industries are increasingly breaking linguistic and commercial barriers. His encouragement reinforced the idea that conviction-led storytelling, rooted in cultural authenticity, can resonate with audiences far beyond its original market.

 

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Presented by Manifest Films and produced by Ajay Padariya and Jay Vyas, Laalo – Krishna Sada Sahaayate is written and directed by Ankit Sakhiya and stars Reeva Rachh, Shruhad Goswami and Karan Joshi in pivotal roles. Released in October 2025, the film’s unprecedented box office performance marked a turning point for Gujarati cinema, positioning it firmly on the national map.

Following its overwhelming response, the film was released in theatres across India in a Hindi-dubbed version on January 9, 2026. The Hindi release has allowed Laalo to reach a wider audience, further extending its journey of faith-driven storytelling and emotional depth.

At its core, Laalo – Krishna Sada Sahaayate is a devotional drama that follows a rickshaw driver trapped in a farmhouse, forced to confront his past while experiencing divine visions of Lord Krishna. These visions guide him through a transformative path of healing and self-discovery, a narrative that struck a chord with viewers across regions.

As Laalo continues its successful theatrical run, the meeting between Karan Johar and Ankit Sakhiya stands as a symbolic moment — reflecting the growing respect for Gujarati cinema and its evolving place within the larger Indian film landscape.

Also Read: Shruhad Goswami on playing Lord Krishna in Laalo, “People are touching my feet, their gaze is such that they cry”

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Photos: Shanaya Kapoor and Adarsh Gourav snapped promoting Tu Yaa Main

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World Tourism Day Special: Let Ananya Panday, Mrunal Thakur and more celebs inspire your next dream vacation

If celebrity travel pictures have ever sent you straight into holiday-planning mode, you’re in good company. This World Tourism Day, stars from across the industry are serving major travel inspiration with their picturesque getaways, offering a peek into destinations that balance luxury, culture, and pure escapism. From tranquil beaches to high-energy cities, these celebrity-approved locations might just spark your next adventure.

Ananya Panday — Paris
Paris through Ananya Panday’s travel lens feels fresh, fashionable, and endlessly charming. From iconic landmarks to casual city moments, her diary brings alive the romance and style the French capital is famous for. It’s a gentle reminder that Paris, in all its timeless elegance, continues to be a favourite for good reason.

 

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Rasha Thadani — Los Angeles
Rasha Thadani’s Los Angeles trip is all about embracing the city’s effortless cool. Her snapshots reflect the dynamic energy of LA—from sunlit streets to iconic urban backdrops. The travel diary captures a glamorous yet laid-back mood, making the city a perfect pick for travellers who enjoy fast-paced city life with a touch of Hollywood flair.

 

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Mrunal Thakur — Thailand
Thailand remains a timeless favourite, and Mrunal Thakur’s holiday proves exactly why. Her travel moments highlight the country’s vibrant personality, blending scenic landscapes with relaxed, joyful experiences. From colourful surroundings to easygoing holiday vibes, her diary showcases Thailand as a destination that caters equally to explorers, culture lovers, and those simply looking to unwind.

 

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Soha Ali Khan — Japan
Soha Ali Khan’s Japan journey stands out for its reflective and immersive tone. Her travel experiences highlight the country’s unique ability to balance tradition with modern living. From historic landmarks to serene environments, her diary positions Japan as a destination for travellers who appreciate culture, detail, and meaningful exploration.

 

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Akansha Ranjan Kapoor — Maldives
Akansha Ranjan Kapoor’s Maldives vacation is a postcard-perfect reminder of why island holidays never lose their charm. Set against crystal-clear waters and expansive blue skies, her travel diary captures the slower rhythm of life that the Maldives is known for. Whether it’s soaking in ocean views or enjoying moments of calm, her getaway reflects the ultimate tropical retreat—ideal for travellers seeking peace, privacy, and indulgence.

 

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This World Tourism Day, these celebrity travel diaries serve as the perfect nudge to turn wanderlust into actual plans—because your next destination might just be waiting.

Also Read: Sayani Gupta welcomes 2026 with a mountain retreat, see pics!

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Lollapalooza India 2026 Day 1 turns Mumbai into a genre-defying music playground with Playboi Carti, YUNGBLUD & more

Lollapalooza India 2026 made a thunderous return to Mumbai on January 24, with Day 1 unfolding as a sweeping celebration of music, culture, and community at the iconic Mahalaxmi Racecourse. Thousands of fans packed the venue as the festival’s third Indian edition kicked off with genre-spanning performances, immersive experiences, and a buzzing atmosphere that set the tone for the weekend.

Spearheaded by BookMyShow Live—the live entertainment experiential arm of BookMyShow—in collaboration with global creators Perry Farrell and C3 Presents, the festival once again brought the globally celebrated Lollapalooza experience to Indian shores.

The main stage came alive with hip-hop heavyweight Playboi Carti, marking his first major appearance in India. Joined by Opium collective members Destroy Lonely and Homixide Gang, Carti powered through fan favourites like FE!N!, Pop Out, Timeless and If Looks Could Kill, sending waves of energy through the crowd. British artist YUNGBLUD followed with a charged set driven by Zombie and Hello Heaven, while Japanese sensation Fujii Kaze delivered one of the evening’s most emotional moments with a stripped-back, piano-led rendition of Shinunoga E-Wa.

Electronic and alternative music lovers were equally spoilt, with Knock2 igniting the dance floor with festival edits of Dashstar, The Midnight bathing the venue in synth-soaked nostalgia through Sunset and Los Angeles, and Mother Mother leading massive singalongs with Hayloft. UK acts Hamdi and Hot Milk further amped up the energy across stages.

Indian artists held their own with standout performances from Ankur Tewari & The Ghalat Family, MU540, and Gauley Bhai, while emerging acts including Zoya, Pho, Still in Therapy, Sijya and Sunflower Tape Machine reinforced the festival’s discovery-driven spirit.

Beyond music, the Lolla Food Park emerged as a major attraction, hosting over 70 food brands and exclusive Lollapalooza-themed dishes. The venue itself transformed into an art-forward space with striking installations, interactive zones, and a bustling merchandise area.

With sustainability initiatives, accessibility-focused infrastructure, and seamless transport connectivity in place, Day 1 concluded with palpable excitement—especially as anticipation builds for Day 2, headlined by Linkin Park’s much-awaited Mumbai debut.

Also Read: Lollapalooza India 2025 wraps up with global and Indian music acts

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Dhurandhar actor Nadeem Khan arrested for alleged 10-Year sexual exploitation of domestic worker on false marriage promise

Actor Nadeem Khan, who was recently seen in the film Dhurandhar, has been arrested by Mumbai Police following serious allegations made by his former domestic worker. The case pertains to claims that the actor repeatedly sexually assaulted the woman over nearly a decade, allegedly luring her with a false promise of marriage.

Khan, who portrayed the character Akhlak—cook to the dacoit Rahman—in Dhurandhar, was taken into custody by Malvani Police on Thursday. Officials confirmed that he is currently in police custody as the investigation progresses.

According to police sources, the complainant is a 41-year-old woman who has worked as a domestic help at the residences of several actors over the years. In her statement, she said she first came into contact with Khan in 2015. What began as a professional association allegedly developed into a personal relationship, during which the actor is said to have assured her that he would marry her.

Relying on this assurance, the woman claimed she consented to a physical relationship that continued for nearly ten years. She alleged that the encounters took place both at her residence and at Khan’s home in Versova, with the belief that the relationship would culminate in marriage. However, when the actor allegedly refused to marry her later, she decided to approach the police.

The complainant initially lodged her complaint with Versova Police earlier this month. However, due to jurisdictional reasons, the case was subsequently transferred to Malvani Police. Explaining the transfer, an officer told Mid-Day, “Since the alleged physical relationship took place for the first time at the complainant’s house within the jurisdiction of Malvani police, and the victim resides in that area, Versova Police transferred the case on zero FIR to Malvani police.”

Based on the complaint and preliminary inquiry, Malvani Police registered a case and proceeded with Khan’s arrest. Further investigation is ongoing, and officials are expected to record additional statements and examine evidence related to the allegations.

The development has sent ripples through the industry, particularly given Khan’s recent screen appearance, while authorities stress that the probe will continue in accordance with due process.

Also Read: Aditya Dhar breaks silence on Dhurandhar 2 teaser; confirms release ‘in a few days’

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Shah Rukh Khan starrer KING locks Christmas 2026 release; explosive new teaser take fan frenzy to the next level

Shah Rukh Khan has officially marked the end of 2026 with KING, announcing that the much-anticipated action thriller will storm cinemas on December 24, 2026. The release date reveal, unveiled by SRK and director Siddharth Anand, was accompanied by striking new visuals from the film’s announcement teaser, instantly sending fans into a frenzy and positioning KING as the biggest Christmas release of the year.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Shah Rukh Khan shared a teaser video that offers a deeper look into the film’s intense visual world. The clip showcases the superstar in a fierce, salt-and-pepper bloody avatar, set against breathtaking landscapes and sharp, stylised frames that underline the film’s high-octane tone. Along with the video, SRK wrote, “#KING is Ready to ROAR on 24.12.2026 in Cinemas #ItsKingTime #KingDateAnnouncement,” triggering massive excitement across social media.

The timing of the announcement has added another layer of buzz. The date reveal comes on the eve of the three-year anniversary of Pathaan, the blockbuster that marked SRK’s return to the big screen and began his record-breaking run with Jawan and Dunki. With KING, Siddharth Anand reunites with Shah Rukh Khan, reigniting expectations of another adrenaline-fuelled cinematic spectacle.

Earlier, on November 2, Shah Rukh Khan’s birthday, the makers had dropped the electrifying title reveal of KING. The announcement introduced SRK’s silver-haired, action-driven look, an SRK-special theme track, and the now-viral dialogue, “Darr nahi, Dehshat hoon,” setting off widespread chatter across media platforms. With the release date now locked, anticipation around the film has only intensified.

#KING is Ready to ROAR on 24.12.2026 in Cinemas#ItsKingTime#KingDateAnnouncement pic.twitter.com/a60zM0pc1s

— Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) January 24, 2026

Directed by Siddharth Anand, KING is produced by Gauri Khan, Siddharth Anand, and Mamta Anand under Red Chillies Entertainment and Marflix Pictures. The film features a massive ensemble cast led by Shah Rukh Khan, with Suhana Khan making her theatrical debut alongside her father. The cast also includes Deepika Padukone and Abhishek Bachchan in pivotal roles, supported by Abhay Verma, Raghav Juyal, Anil Kapoor, Jackie Shroff, Arshad Warsi, and Rani Mukerji.

With its Christmas release window, explosive visuals, and SRK’s return in a powerful new avatar, KING is shaping up to be the most awaited big-screen spectacle of 2026—one that promises to close the year on a thunderous high and set the tone for 2027.

Also Read: Siddharth Anand’s cryptic post fuels speculation on Shah Rukh Khan’s King release date announcement

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The Raja Saab producer SKN files Cyber Crime complaint amid online backlash

The Prabhas-led The Raja Saab, which features the actor in dual roles, has found itself at the centre of intense online scrutiny since its release. Despite being mounted on a lavish scale and carrying high expectations, the film has not received the response many anticipated, prompting a wave of criticism and trolling across social media platforms.

As the backlash intensified, the makers of The Raja Saab decided to take a firm stand. Creative producer Sreenivas Kumar Naidu (SKN) has filed an official complaint at the Cyber Crime Police Station in Hyderabad against certain social media handles. According to the complaint, these accounts were allegedly impersonating him and circulating derogatory and misleading content aimed at the film and its cast.

Addressing the issue in a statement, Sreenivas Kumar Naidu said, “Such malicious acts are intended to create confusion and spread negativity. Strict legal action will be taken against those involved, and the matter is currently under investigation.” The complaint marks a decisive move by the production team to counter what they believe is a deliberate attempt to damage the film’s reputation through false narratives.

This is not the first time SKN has spoken about the film being targeted. At an event held in June, he had openly addressed the negative chatter surrounding The Raja Saab. At the time, he remarked, “I am well aware of how a producer tried to negatively campaign on this film when they began shooting. Now see how the same producer will talk positively about the film tomorrow.” He had also expressed confidence that the film would eventually win audience appreciation.

Producer @SKNonline has lodged a formal complaint at the Cyber Crime Police Station against certain social media handles that were impersonating him and posting derogatory and misleading remarks targeting the film and its actors.

Such malicious acts are intended to create… pic.twitter.com/4pjlxhh9Ek

— Telugu Film Producers Council (@tfpcin) January 23, 2026

The Raja Saab is a fantasy horror comedy written and directed by Maruthi, and produced by People Media Factory and IVY Entertainment. Apart from Prabhas, the film stars Sanjay Dutt, Nidhhi Agerwal, Malavika Mohanan—making her Telugu film debut—Riddhi Kumar, and Zarina Wahab. The story follows a man searching for his missing grandfather, only to encounter a sinister presence inside an eerie mansion.

With music composed by Thaman S, cinematography by Karthik Palani, and editing by Kotagiri Venkateswara Rao, the film was released worldwide on January 9, 2026, coinciding with the Sankranti festival.

As investigations continue, The Raja Saab team appears determined to shift focus back to the film, even as it navigates the challenges of online criticism and controversy.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: The RajaSaab actress Riddhi Kumaar on collaboration in cinema, “A film set is like a machine”

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Photos: Kriti Sanon attends the launch the new edition of Motorola signature in Mumbai

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EXCLUSIVE: Afsana Khan on singing ‘Naal Nachna’ for Dhurandhar: “I knew it had something special”

Singer Afsana Khan’s latest track Naal Nachna from the upcoming film Dhurandhar has been steadily gaining attention online, with listeners responding positively to its upbeat and lively vibe. Speaking exclusively, the singer shares that the reception has been both overwhelming and encouraging.

“I am enjoying the appreciation and acknowledgement Naal Nachna has received,” Afsana says. “Seeing people connect with the song genuinely makes me happy.”

Recalling her first encounter with the track, Afsana admits it stood out immediately.
“When I first heard Naal Nachna, my reaction was a clear ‘wow’. It was love at first listen,” she shares. “At that time, I was mostly being offered songs across different genres, from sad to romantic. Naal Nachna felt completely different — it was energetic, fun, and full of life. I knew it had something special.”

The decision to come on board was quick.
“When Shashwat Sachdeva called and spoke to me about the song, I instantly said yes and asked him to send it to me,” she recalls. “Later, when I found out it was for Dhurandhar and featured Ranveer Singh, my interest grew even more.”

Talking about her emotional connection to the track, Afsana reveals that one particular line holds special meaning for her.
“There’s a line in the song that I’m deeply attached to. I sang it with all my heart,” she says. “I believe in looking at the brighter side of things. When you think positively, good things naturally follow.”

Reflecting on her journey as a female playback singer, Afsana speaks candidly about the realities of the industry.
“There are no shortcuts in this profession,” she says. “The longer the journey, the stronger you become. Rejections are part of growth, and they teach you a lot.”

Sharing her thoughts on Ranveer Singh, who features in the film, Afsana keeps it simple yet respectful.
“Ranveer has a strong screen presence,” she notes. “Artists who are confident naturally command attention. When you give your best, the performance speaks for itself.”

With Naal Nachna continuing to find its audience, Afsana Khan’s enthusiasm reflects a singer enjoying a moment that feels both rewarding and well-earned.

Also Read: Dhurandhar sequel titled Dhurandhar The Revenge; teaser passed by the CBFC with ‘A’ certificate

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Smriti Irani backs preventive healthcare framework for women at World Economic Forum

Smriti Irani has lent her voice to a science-led women’s wellness initiative unveiled by Laila Nutraceuticals at the World Economic Forum in Davos, highlighting the growing global conversation around preventive healthcare and women-centric health frameworks.

The former Union Minister and long-time advocate for women’s empowerment congratulated Yuthika Gokaraju on the launch, stressing the need to place women’s health at the centre of long-term social and economic planning. Speaking at the forum, Irani underscored that investments in women’s wellbeing must be viewed beyond the lens of individual care and seen as a national priority.

“Women must be at the centre of decision-making for a future-ready society — not only in education and opportunity, but in health and wellbeing,” said Smriti Irani. “An initiative of this scale, grounded in science and led by a young woman, reflects both India’s capability and its conscience. Prioritising women’s health is not just a social responsibility; it is an economic and national imperative.”

The initiative marks an effort to address long-standing gaps in women’s healthcare through a preventive, life-stage–aligned approach, drawing from scientific research and clinical validation. While led by Laila Nutraceuticals, the broader intent, as highlighted at Davos, is to encourage structured, evidence-based conversations around women’s health that move beyond fragmented solutions.

Yuthika Gokaraju, Vice President – Business Development at Laila Nutraceuticals, noted that women’s health has often been addressed in silos and that the aim is to create a more cohesive framework that supports women across different stages of life. The focus areas include reproductive and menstrual health, hormonal changes, metabolic balance, bone health, mental wellbeing, and healthy ageing.

The announcement also aligns with India’s wider emphasis on integrating traditional knowledge with scientific validation in preventive healthcare. Addressing the Second WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier spoken about the importance of balance as the essence of health, calling for responsible and future-ready healthcare systems rooted in evidence and regulation.

Also Read: Smriti Irani brings India’s Gender Equity agenda to Davos 2026, marks three years of global alliance

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Photos: Shahid Kapoor, Triptii Dimri and others grace the trailer launch of O’ Romeo

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Vicky Kaushal’s character from Uri will NOT appear in Dhurandhar 2

A wildly improbable story doing the rounds suggests that Vicky Kaushal will play his character from Aditya Dhar’s Uri: The Surgical Strike in the director’s sequel to Dhurandhar.

The writer checked with someone very close to the director who completely debunked the rumour. “Vicky Kaushal and Uri are no part of Dhurandhar. I don’t know where that comes from. We understand the curiosity and excitement for the second part. One can treat these as fan generated rumours and speculation. But we can’t have the media reporting such outrageous assumptions as news.”

Also Read: SCOOP: Dhurandhar 2 teaser attached to Border 2; Eid 2026 release confirmed

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Vijay Subramaniam unveils HistoryVerse content slate with eight new titles; details inside

Collective Artists Network today announced its first content slate, focused on bringing India’s vast and layered history to screen through deeply researched narratives and contemporary storytelling tools. The slate features eight history-inspired titles across theatrical films and web series, and marks the first major release under Collective Studios, the company’s newly launched unified content studio bringing together original storytelling across its platforms.

Positioned as India’s largest history-inspired slate, the lineup draws from figures, eras, and cultural traditions that have shaped the subcontinent over centuries. The slate spans stories inspired by Hanuman, Krishna, Shiva, Shivaji, Durga, Kali, and Swami Samarth. The already released Mahabharat series serves as the starting point for HistoryVerse’s larger vision, demonstrating how historically rooted narratives can be approached for modern screens.

Of the newly announced projects, three are being developed as theatrical films, while two will take shape as web series, with additional titles currently in various stages of development. From the earliest stages of writing to the final visual experience, every layer is carefully shaped to build scale, detail, and immersion, allowing these stories to unfold with a richness and scope rarely attempted before.

 

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Speaking about the slate, Founder and Group CEO of Collective Artists Network, Vijay Subramaniam, said, “I’ve always believed that our folklore is among the richest in the world, and that these stories, woven into the core of our cultural fabric, deserve a global stage. As HistoryVerse grows, our vision goes beyond films and series to include experiences, consumer brands, and gaming; building a larger ecosystem around these stories for audiences to engage with.”

With this announcement, Historyverse under Collective Studios reinforces Collective Artists Network’s commitment to building a long-term storytelling platform dedicated to Indian history-inspired narratives, designed to connect with audiences across generations and geographies.

Also Read: Lord Hanuman gets AI-powered cinematic makeover: Abundantia Entertainment and Collective Media Network announce Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal

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Karan Johar says Dhurandhar’s politics didn’t bother him; calls it “nuanced film,” praises Aditya Dhar for his unique voice

Filmmaker Karan Johar has weighed in on the ongoing conversations surrounding Dhurandhar, describing the film as nuanced and clarifying that its political undertones did not offend him.

In a recent interaction on the IIMUN YouTube channel, Johar discussed his perception of the film amid discussions that questioned its political messaging. Addressing the debate directly, he stated that he did not find the film offensive, adding that it was important to view it through the lens of storytelling rather than ideology.

KJo said, “I unabashedly, unapologetically, and absolutely, outstandingly loved Dhurandhar. I saw all of it with awe because I loved the craft of filmmaking. I loved the storytelling. I loved the way he divided it into chapters. I loved that the gaze was more internal, and it wasn’t against, it was for speaking about politics in its own way.”

He further added, “I actually wasn’t offended by the politics of the film. I know where it was heading. I know some people could agree or disagree, and that should be cinema. I was not offended by any ideological issue in the film. I watched it for the craft, for the cinema aspect of it, and I absolutely loved it, and I felt like Aditya Dhar has a unique voice, and I feel he has emerged as a strong, unique voice. I walked out feeling it was a nuanced film.”

Speaking of the film, readers may recall that earlier today, Bollywood Hungama exclusively reported that the Ranveer Singh-starrer sequel has been titled Dhurandhar The Revenge. In fact, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) passed the teaser of Dhurandhar’s sequel. The duration of the teaser is one minute plus, and it has been awarded an ‘A’ certificate.

Also Read: Karan Johar buys apartment in Mumbai’s Khar West for Rs 8.05 crores

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Kanye West to perform in India during April 2026 concert tour

American rapper and producer Kanye West is set to make a performance stop in India during his concert tour in April 2026, marking what would be his first live performances in the country, according to the latest buzz. West, one of the most influential figures in contemporary music, will bring his live show to Indian audiences as part of a broader tour next year. Details such as specific cities and venues have not been disclosed, but sources familiar with the plans say the visit is anticipated to be a major cultural event.

West, who has had a substantial impact across hip-hop, rap, gospel and experimental music, has won 24 Grammy Awards, making him one of the most decorated artists in the genre’s history. Some of his best-known tracks include ‘Gold Digger’, ‘Stronger’, ‘Good Life’ and ‘Ultralight Beam’, and his influence extends into fashion and broader popular culture.

While this would be West’s first official concert tour stop in India, he has visited the country on previous occasions. Reports suggest that he travelled to India for a spiritual retreat in 2009 and later visited Mumbai in 2012 to promote his women’s fashion label.

International live music events have become increasingly common in India in recent years, with acts such as Coldplay, Ed Sheeran, Dua Lipa, Maroon 5 and Justin Bieber drawing large crowds at standalone concerts or festivals. Global events like Lollapalooza India have also featured major international performers, highlighting growing demand for live international music experiences across the country.

At this stage, official confirmation from West’s team or promoters regarding the India leg of the tour has not been released. Fans and industry observers will be watching for further announcements on dates, venues and ticketing details as plans for the April 2026 concerts take shape.

Also Read: Kim Kardashian gets candid about brain aneurysm diagnosis amid divorce with Kanye West; says, “My ex will be in my life no matter what”

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