“Hit film isn’t all you need to build a franchise”: Pankaj Tripathi speaks about Bollywood’s obsession with sequels, highlights factors contributing to Stree 2’s success

Actor Pankaj Tripathi, who recently featured in the blockbuster Stree 2, shared his candid thoughts on Bollywood’s growing obsession with sequels. Despite the success of the film, he maintains a grounded perspective on its impact and highlights the essential ingredients needed to create a successful franchise.

The Secret to Stree 2‘s Success

Stree 2, a sequel to the 2018 hit Stree, became one of the biggest Hindi film releases of the year. While the film’s impressive box office performance was celebrated, Pankaj Tripathi emphasized the importance of maintaining a calm mindset amidst the success. A report by Hindustan Times, quoted the actor saying, “It is a thing of great joy that a film of such a nominal budget became such a big blockbuster. Par ye success se aapka dimaag kharab nahin hona chahiye. Ek thehraav rehna chahiye.”

The actor also acknowledged that the film’s success was, in part, due to its connection to the Stree franchise. “The happiness the audience got after watching the first part played a huge role in bringing the audience to theatres for the sequel in the first weekend itself. Otherwise, people wait for the weekend to get over to know the reviews and the performance, but for franchise films that isn’t the case,” Pankaj added.

Pankaj Tripathi’s Thoughts on Bollywood’s Obsession with Sequels

Having been a part of both successful and less successful franchises, Pankaj Tripathi shared his perspective on Bollywood’s growing reliance on sequels. “To make a franchise, a successful film isn’t all you need. You need a unique film for that. Sometimes a film is successful but not unique. Stree fit in both the requirements. So, that is also a factor,” he explained.

Sequels are Not Always the Answer

Pankaj’s comments come at a time when sequels like Stree 2, Singham Again, and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 have dominated the box office. However, the overall performance of Bollywood films has been underwhelming this year. Sharing thoughts on the same, Pankaj said, “I am an actor, and I don’t have expertise in the business side of films. But the audience is unpredictable, they change their taste at any time. Wo trailer dekh ke hi apna mann bana leti hai. Baaki publicity, gimmicks aur stunt se kuch nahin hota hai.”

A Surprising Anecdote from Stree 2

While talking about his involvement in Stree 2, Pankaj Tripathi also shared an interesting anecdote about his contract for the film. He revealed, “During Stree, the producers had told me that if Stree works really well, they will give me a bonus. That amount was crossed in four days for the first part. I didn’t even know when the makers had put that same clause in my contract for Stree 2 too, as for (producer) Dinesh Vijan’s films I never read the agreement. And the figure for the sequel was crossed in just two days.”

Also Read: Bollywood STUNNED as Bihar offers HIGHEST film subsidy of up to Rs. 4 cr; Manoj Bajpayee, Pankaj Tripathi, Sanjay Mishra applaud the GAME-CHANGING move

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Kamal Haasan calls R Ashwin as Tamil Nadu’s ‘greatest ever cricketer’ as latter announces retirement; cricketer reacts

Tamil superstar and cinematic legend Kamal Haasan, who is quite active on social media, decided to dedicate a special message to cricket superstar Ravichandran Ashwin on the occasion of his retirement. For the unversed, R Ashwin announced his retirement from cricket on December 19, after the Third Test between India and Australia in Brisbane. The actor poured his heart as he couldn’t stop gushing about Ashwin’s game. Appreciating Haasan’s gesture, Ashwin too shared his thoughts and showered love on his work.

After Kamal Haasan dedicated a special post to cricket superstar Ravichandran Ashwin

Taking to the social media platform X, Kamal Haasan penned a sweet message about the contributions of Ravichandran Ashwin in the world of Indian cricket and its impact as he said, “You leave behind a legacy as one of the finest spinners the world has ever seen and Tamil Nadu’s greatest ever cricketer, @ashwinravi99. Your fierce competitive spirit and pure cricketing intelligence, unmatched in the modern game, are etched forever in the hearts of cricket lovers. Well done and best wishes for your next chapter.” Responding to the same, Ashwin revealed how he misses the actor as the host of Bigg Boss and added, “Thank you sir! Miss you in Big Boss”. Apart from Kamal, Ashwin received many sweet messages from many of his colleagues and seniors including Ravi Shastri and Virat Kohli.

Thank you sir! Miss you in Big Boss???? https://t.co/SoNSIhBMzq

— Ashwin ???????? (@ashwinravi99) December 20, 2024

Kamal Haasan’s upcoming projects

The superstar is busy with his next film which will mark his reunion with Nayakan filmmaker Mani Ratnam after 36 years. The action-packed drama titled Thug Life will also star Silambarasan, Trisha Krishnan, Ali Fazal, along with a host of other actors from South Cinema and Bollywood. The film is expected to release on June 5, this year.

Also Read: S Shankar BREAKS SILENCE on Kamal Haasan starrer Indian 2 debacle: “I did not expect such reviews, but it came…”

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EXCLUSIVE: Aanchal Munjal reveals she shot three scenes for Pushpa 2: The Rule, but only one made it to the final cut; recalls receiving a call for the cameo a few days after the title track of the Allu Arjun-starrer released in May this year, says, “We thought it was a prank”

Aanchal Munjal, who recently made a special appearance in Pushpa 2: The Rule, has been basking in the love and admiration from fans and industry peers alike. In an exclusive chat with Bollywood Hungama, the actress opened up about her journey, the experience of landing the role, and what it was like sharing screen space with superstar Allu Arjun.

On Her Journey from TV to Pushpa 2

Describing her path to one of the biggest blockbusters of the year, Aanchal said, “I would just say it’s been magical. From childhood, I’ve done everything possible that came my way—TV, films, ad films. My only goal was to keep working, and the reward has always been people’s love.”

She revealed that although her role in Pushpa 2 had no dialogues and two of her scenes didn’t make the final cut, the audience’s response exceeded her expectations. “Looking at the response again, I would just say that the journey has been beautiful, and the only constant thing has been people’s love towards me.”

 

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How She Landed the Role

Aanchal shared the intriguing story of how a reel she made on Pushpa: The Rule’s title track caught the attention of director Sukumar’s team. “I posted the reel, and within a day, my team got a call from a casting director saying they wanted to cast me. At first, we thought it was a prank, but it turned out Sukumar sir himself liked my profile,” she recalled.

 

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The Unused Scenes

Aanchal candidly addressed the scenes that didn’t make it to the final cut. “As they say, special appearances often have scenes cut out. In my case, two scenes didn’t make it. But you never know with big filmmakers—those scenes might just show up in Pushpa 3,” she said, keeping the details under wraps.

She further added, “The day I got to see myself on the screen, I thought, okay, the scene is kept. There are four close ups. I am looking beautiful. And that’s when I put a post on my Instagram and people were shocked. They were taken aback. Despite those four close ups, you’re looking so beautiful. We want to see you in Pushpa 3. So, it’s, yeah, it’s been maddening since the release.”

Working with Allu Arjun

Reflecting on her time on set, Aanchal was full of praise for her co-star Allu Arjun. “The kind of discipline he has, even under scorching heat, is remarkable. He works with such humility despite his stardom. I’ve seen this kind of dedication only in Amitabh Bachchan before.”

When asked about her preferred medium, Aanchal expressed her love for the craft as a whole. “The camera loves me, and people love me through the camera. For me, it’s all about the love for cinema.”

 

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What’s Next?

While keeping her upcoming projects under wraps, Aanchal teased fans, saying, “Just like Pushpa 2, my next big project will also be a surprise. I can’t wait for everyone to see it!”

Aanchal concluded by expressing gratitude for the overwhelming love she has received, promising to continue entertaining her audience. Fans are now eagerly hoping for her character’s return in Pushpa 3: The Rule.

Also Read: Ram Gopal Varma calls Allu Arjun’s arrest “Publicity Boost” for Pushpa 2: The Rule; says, “STATE did such a deliberately weak PROSECUTION so that…”

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Black Warrant Trailer: Zahan Kapoor makes series debut as jailer Sunil Kumar Gupta grappling with moral dilemma and power struggles

After a power packed 2024 with films and series like Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, Amar Singh Chamkila, The Great Indian Kapil Show, IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack and CTRL, Netflix India is firing 2025 off with the announcement of India’s first-of-its-kind prison drama, Black Warrant. Launching on January 10, the series offers a thrilling exploration of the morally charged world of Asia’s largest prison, Tihar, through the eyes of rookie jailer Sunil Kumar Gupta as he takes on some of India’s most notorious offenders.

Created and show run by Vikramaditya Motwane and Satyanshu Singh, who also serve as co-directors alongside Ambiecka Pandit, Arkesh Ajay and Rohin Raveendran Nair, the series follows a newly appointed jailer, Sunil and his colleagues as they navigate a system that challenges everything they believe. As Sunil grapples with moral dilemmas and power struggles, the drama reveals the raw and unfiltered reality of prison life. Zahan Kapoor makes his series debut as Sunil Kumar Gupta, joined by an ensemble including Rahul Bhat, Paramvir Singh Cheema, Anurag Thakur and Sidhant Gupta, each playing pivotal roles in this gripping and gritty tale.

The series is a dramatized adaptation of the author and former superintendent at Tihar Jail, Sunil Gupta and journalist-author Sunetra Choudhury’s book, ‘Black Warrant: Confessions Of A Tihar Jailer’ and marks Vikramaditya Motwane’s return to long-form storytelling on Netflix, kicking off India’s 2025 slate. Speaking about adapting the book into the series, Vikramaditya Motwane had earlier said, “Black Warrant is a book that is raw, intense, and authentic and immediately demands to be brought to life. Collaborating with Netflix, Applause Entertainment, and Confluence has been incredible, and I’m grateful to have had partners who have supported me and the team in telling this story the way it deserves to be told.”

 

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Presented by Applause Entertainment, an Andolan Production in collaboration with Confluence Media, the series is inspired by true events and is set in the 1980s. Watch Black Warrant on January 10, only on Netflix.

Also Read: Netflix announces Black Warrant: Prison drama by Sacred Games’ creator Vikramaditya Motwane

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Photos: Jeetendra, Mithun Chakraborty, Johny Lever and others attend CINTAA’s fundraiser, paying tribute to Raj Kapoor

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“Baby John is one of Vaun Dhawan’s finest performances,” says director Kalees

The highly anticipated trailer of Baby John, starring Varun Dhawan, has garnered widespread admiration from audiences. The film aims to be a thrilling commercial family entertainer with music, a strong message, action, dance and a full packaged festive treat.

Director Kalees recently shared his thoughts on the film and Dhawan’s performance. He stated, “Working with Varun Dhawan on Baby John has been a memorable experience. He has brought a unique blend of energy, dedication, and versatility to the role. Whether it’s the high-octane action or the heartwarming moments, Varun embodied every aspect of the character effortlessly. His performance is one that will stay with audiences long after they leave the theatre. For me, this is one of his finest performances.”

Baby John stars Varun Dhawan, National Award-winning actress Keerthy Suresh, Wamiqa Gabbi, Jackie Shroff and Rajpal Yadav.

Produced by Murad Khetani, Priya Atlee, and Jyoti Deshpande, Baby John is an action masala saga. Presented by Jio Studios in association with Atlee and Cine1 Studios, Baby John is a production of A for Apple Studios and Cine1 Studios. Directed by Kalees, the film is set to hit theatres on December 25, 2024.

Also Read: Atlee CONFIRMS thriller film with Vijay Sethupathi and Murad Khetani, set for 2025: Report

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Rashmika Mandanna praises Sandeep Reddy Vanga and Sukumar for “Empowering women character in Animal and Pushpa”: “They don’t see women as helpless”

Rashmika Mandanna, who has delivered one of the biggest hits of Indian cinema with Pushpa 2: The Rule, recently opened up about her experience of working with directors Sandeep Reddy Vanga and Sukumar. The actress, celebrated for her portrayal of Srivalli in Pushpa, revealed how these filmmakers present women as strong, independent characters in their narratives.

Speaking to Siddharth Kannan, Rashmika expressed her admiration for the directors’ approach to portraying women in their films. She stated, “What I have seen in Sandeep Reddy Vanga and Sukumar sir is their utmost respect towards a woman. They don’t look at women as creatures who need help, they think that women are powerful. It comes through their craft.”

Empowering Female Characters in Pushpa and Geetanjali
Rashmika highlighted how characters like Srivalli in Pushpa and Geetanjali in Kabir Singh demonstrate inner strength and courage. “You see Geetanjali or Srivalli, both of these characters know that Ranvijay or Pushpa are killing 200 people out there, but still, they have the guts to stand up against them when they make a mistake. Voicing that up takes courage,” she elaborated.

She credited the directors for crafting such characters, stating, “If you go to the depth of it, you will see the love and respect they have for women. That’s how I was seeing it and portrayed it.”

On Friendship in the Industry
When asked about her bond with co-stars like Allu Arjun, Ranbir Kapoor, and Vijay Deverakonda, Rashmika shared her philosophy on maintaining healthy relationships in the industry. “One thing I have learned in life is, everyone has their battles to fight, so don’t be another battle for them to fight with. I don’t want to be a battle in their life, but rather a good experience,” she said.

Rashmika added that her co-stars have always been supportive, saying, “If I pick up the phone and say I need them, I know they got my back. That’s the kind of relationship I have with them.”

Upcoming Projects
On the professional front, Rashmika Mandanna is gearing up for her next project, Sikandar, alongside Salman Khan. Meanwhile, her previous films, Animal and Pushpa 2: The Rule, continue to make waves in the industry.

Also Read: Rashmika Mandanna recalls her reaction to Chhaava’s narration; says, “I didn’t take a second to say yes”

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9 years of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Bajirao Mastani: “A love that stood the test of time”

With Bajirao Mastani, Sanjay Leela Bhansali created an epic saga of love that told the story of the heroic Peshwa Bajirao, who, despite being married to Kashibai, falls in love with Mastani, a warrior princess in distress. The film is richly adorned with a masterfully crafted story, enthralling visuals, impactful dialogues, a grand canvas, fabulous performances by the actors, mesmerizing songs, and Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s fine storytelling.

On its 9th anniversary, Bhansali Productions took to their social media and shared a special video on the occasion. They captioned it, “A love that stood the test of time, a clash of hearts and destiny, and a devotion that goes beyond limits! The story of Bajirao, Mastani, and Kashibai is one of deep passion and sacrifice that continues to touch hearts. Celebrating #9YearsOfBajiraoMastani”

Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Bajirao Mastani stars Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, and Priyanka Chopra in pivotal roles. At the 63rd National Film Awards, the film won 7 awards, including Best Director, Best Supporting Actress, Best Cinematography, and Best Art Direction. The film received unanimous praise from both audiences and critics alike.

 

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The album of Bajirao Mastani featured songs in various styles. Tracks like ‘Deewani Mastani’, ‘Aayat’, ‘Malhari’, ‘Pinga’, and ‘Gajanana’ were loved by the masses.

Furthermore, anticipation builds for SLB’s next Love & War. It’s thrilling to look forward to the monumental collaboration of Sanjay Leela Bhansali and the talented trio of Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal on the big screen in the film. The film will be released on March 20, 2026.

Also Read: Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Heeramandi secures 4th spot in Google Trends’ Global top-searched shows of 2024

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Badshah REACTS to Rs 15,500 traffic fine reports, calls allegations “Completely false”

Rapper Badshah, who recently surprised fans with a performance at Karan Aujla’s concert in Gurugram, has found himself at the center of controversy over allegations of violating traffic rules. Reports claimed that Badshah’s convoy drove on the wrong side of the road, resulting in a fine of Rs 15,000. Addressing the matter, Badshah and his team have categorically denied any wrongdoing.

Badshah’s Response on Instagram

Taking to Instagram on Tuesday night, Badshah clarified the situation with a lighthearted tone. He wrote, “Bhai Thar toh hai bhi nahi mere paas, na main drive kar raha tha us din. I was being driven in a white Vellfire and we always drive responsibly, chahe gaadiyan chahe game.”

The incident allegedly occurred on December 15, following Badshah’s appearance at Karan Aujla’s concert at Aria Mall, Gurugram. Viral posts claimed that a vehicle in Badshah’s convoy was fined for the violation. However, further investigation revealed that the vehicle in question was registered in the name of a youth from Panipat and not the rapper.

Traffic Police and Official Statement

The Gurugram Traffic Police confirmed that a challan of Rs. 15,500 had been issued against one vehicle, while the remaining vehicles in the convoy were still being identified. A traffic police official, speaking anonymously, stated that fines under the Motor Vehicles Act 2019 would also be issued to other vehicles found in violation.

In response, Badshah’s team issued a detailed statement denying all allegations. The statement read, “We categorically deny any involvement of Badshah or his team in the reported traffic violation. None of the vehicles in our party, including those transporting Badshah, were involved in the incident of driving on the wrong side of the road.”

Denial of Fines and Cooperation with Authorities

Badshah’s team emphasized that no fines were levied on any vehicle associated with the rapper. They further clarified that the vehicles involved in transporting him were driven by professionally licensed drivers from a trusted transportation provider. The statement added, “We are cooperating fully with any official inquiries into this matter and will provide all necessary documentation to confirm Badshah’s whereabouts and travel arrangements that evening.” The team also highlighted attempts to contact the authorities for clarity, which they claimed went unanswered.

Also Read: Badshah’s club in Chandigarh hit by crude bombs, investigation on: Reports

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Kani Kusruti is surprised at the global acclaim of All We Imagine As Light; says, “I am also discovering it while it’s happening”

Kani has proved herself the real ‘Maharani’ of movie acting with All We Imagine As Light. Kani is now being feted across the world. But she is not getting carried away. The Malayali powerhouse started with a bit part in 2003 as a bus passenger speaks of her incredible journey so far.

In 2024, Kani had as many as three releases. She says it was a mere co-incidence. “I actually did Girls Will Be Girls first in 2022,” she said. “October, November is when we shot for it. And All We Imagine Has Light happened in 2023.But both films came out in 2024. That is just a coincidence that can happen anytime for actors. Sometimes some films just came out together. We shot the films in different years. Just because in a certain year, a bunch of films come out doesn’t mean that that was the prolific year for the actor. It depends on which year I probably worked more. I didn’t work last year. In fact, this year, I worked the least. I was mostly traveling in 2024. During 2022 , 2021 and 2022, I think as an actor, I worked in a lot of things. I was shooting for Killer Soup, I was shooting for Poacher, I was shooting for Maharani, then Girls Will Be Girls.”

She added, “Many, many things were happening in those years. So, those were the years I think I was more prolific. In Mura, I just have a few scenes. I like to play all kinds of characters. So, I was just happy to play with Hridhu Haroon again because he is also in All We Imagine As Light and then to play as his sister in another film was fun, even though it’s just two, three scenes. I don’t particularly believe that my career has changed in the year 2024 because I don’t believe that journey of a film is how one’s career changes; I don’t define my career that way anyway. When I go to act in a film or when I take up a project, I am never thinking of the journey. So, of course, I didn’t think about where All We Imagine As Light would take me.”

Kani is as surprised by the global success of All We Imagine As Light as the rest of the world. “I am also discovering it while it’s happening,” she said. “I think the story resonates universally and Payal Kapadia’s language resonates universally. It is poetic and subtle, and it probably resonates with people’s taste, I would say, and I think the subject and story can happen to anyone and anywhere. Though it is a regional film in a way, region-specific, but also, I generally believe that anything you speak so region-specific completely translates globally. So, it could be that.”

Interestingly, Payal Kapadia came to Kani with another character in All We Imagine As Light. “Payal did not come to me asking me to play Prabha,” she said. “In fact, she reached out to me eight or nine years ago to play Anu (played by Divya Prabha) because she watched a film of mine, a short film called Memories of a Machine and she wanted to cast me for the part of Anu. Even at that time Payal was only developing the script and she sent me those drafts and she said she’s keeping me in her mind to play Anu. So, she developed the character thinking of that, but it took many, many years for the film to finally happen. By that time, I crossed that age (to play Anu).”

Kani added, “So, then Payal came to me and said, we have talked about you playing Anu multiple times and working together. So, finally it’s going to happen now. So, I told her that I won’t be able to even imagine me playing that younger part anymore. So, she was like, would you like to audition for this other part? Then I was like, okay, then let me audition for this other part. That’s how I ended up playing Prabha. She is lonely. She has a partner, but it’s almost like she doesn’t have him, which is a case of a lot of Indian women and Indian men. So, I don’t know if she’s clinging to hope also. She’s quite probably hopeless, but I think she finally manages to move on and she finds her own closure to move on with life. That is how I see Prabha.”

And now at year end, Kani gives another outstanding performance in Shuchi Talati’s Girls Will Be Girls. The actress who makes the ordinary look extraordinary sees Talati as completely different entities. “Both the directors, Shuchi and Payal are very different directors, their process is very different. When I read All We Imagine As Light, I kind of immediately understood the character and the story and what Prabha is and all. But when I read Girls Will Be Girls, I didn’t understand my character Anila that quickly. I talked to Shuchi, my director, then when my co-actor Preeti Panigrahi came on board, when she played Mira is when I started understanding Anila. So, it took my time to slowly kind of understand Anila. So, for me, it was more interesting to play Anila because I haven’t been given a character like that,” said the actress.

Kani wants to take it easy in 2025. “Right now, I just want to be home, and I hope I can be home for some time and that’s what I would love, just some time for myself. There are one or two stories that I am fascinated about. Let’s see how it’s going. I don’t know how 2025 going to turn out. I only care about the story and whether I feel like I want to be part of the story. I’m not so much into my character and everything. I’m very much into what the story is. That’s what fascinates me and in an ideal place, but sometimes we don’t get the ideal place. So, sometimes it can be, oh, I like my character. Sometimes it can be like, oh, I think I would like to work with this director. So, it can be different, different reasons. But in an ideal, ideal, most ideal place for me as an artist would be, I want to be part of this particular story and this particular way of storytelling. That would be the best reason for choosing to work with someone,” she said.

Also Read: Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal celebrate Girls Will Be Girls success: “Kani Kusruti’s nomination is well-deserved”

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Pushpa 2 (Hindi) Box Office: Scores another HALF CENTURY as it crosses Rs. 50 crores mark on Sunday, set to enter 600 Crore Club in three weeks itself

It’s a 50, and a big one at that! Pushpa 2: The Rule (Hindi) is continuing to fire away and everyday it is collecting on such a humongous note that the actual numbers are not surprising anymore. You are pretty much prepared for one huge record after another and so far the film has been setting that practically every day.

This is something that happened on Sunday as well as Rs. 54 crores came in. Yes, this has actually happened in a year when to get this much over the first weekend has been a reason to celebrate for so many biggies out there and here comes Pushpa 2 (Hindi), which does that on its 11th day. It’s as if the laws of box office are just not applying for the film and it’s creating its own course, something that will set the path for many a biggie to follow and try to emulate.

With this, the Allu Arjun starrer has now reached Rs. 561.50 crores and in a matter of one huge weekend, it has now made its journey into the Rs. 600 Crore Club so smooth. To get those Rs. 40 crores odd in the next 4 days is going to be a cakewalk for the film which means that after Jawan and Stree 2, we will soon have another Rs. 600 crores film in a matter of just a year. Post that, there is Mufasa and Vanvaas next Friday, and it would be interesting to see how audiences prioritise their movie watching experience.

Note: All collections as per various box office sources

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REVEALED: Raj Kapoor’s Sangam was a PAN-GLOBAL blockbuster, collecting Rs. 12 cr; helped the Hindujas bag arms contracts from Iran’s royal family

Yesterday, December 14, was the 100th birth anniversary of the legendary Raj Kapoor. His contribution is immense and hence, the Kapoor family has gone all out to celebrate his centenary. An article in The Times of India focused on the global achievements of Raj Kapoor. The impact of his films in Russia and China is known but this article also reported about not-so-known instances of how his films travelled to many more territories.

The article revealed that in Iran, Raj Kapoor broke box office records with Sangam (1964). In the Asian country, the film ran for over a year. Even in South America, it had a long run. Radhu Karmakar, Raj Kapoor’s regular cinematographer, wrote in his autobiography ‘The Painter of Lights’ that Sangam was made approximately on a budget of Rs 1 crore and it ended up earning over Rs 12 crores, including Rs 5 crores in overseas territories.

The Hindujas also had a big reason to thank Raj Kapoor. They distributed Sangam and were trying to get huge business contracts, but in vain. But since they were the distributors, they were invited to a dinner reception hosted in Tehran by Iran’s ruling family, held to celebrate the film’s 50-week run. The meeting with the royal family helped them bag large arms contracts.

Meanwhile, Raj Kapoor’s films and performances also charmed China. As per an article in The Times of India of 1994, the Chinese Premier Li Peng spoke fondly about Awara (1951) and its title song when he met India’s human resources minister Arjun Singh in Beijing. The December 14 Times of India article further talked about the impact of his films in countries like Turkey, Iran, Greece and even Bulgaria.

Raj Kapoor was termed ‘The Tramp Of Bombay’ in Greece where his films drew house-full crowds, especially the ones starring him and Nargis. In Turkey, Awara was seen by 1,00,000 people in its release week. A newspaper article of 1956 said, “The film was attended by 100,000 spectators during its first week and another 100,000 were unable to watch the film since it had sold out.” Turkey-based academic and critic Ahmet Gurata revealed in the TOI article that Awara’s title song was a top-selling record and even featured in official functions. “Several Turkish singers circulated it as a Turkish record in music markets.”

Also Read: The INSIDE story of how ‘The Tramp Of Bombay’ Raj Kapoor brought the OG Tramp Charlie Chaplin to tears with a silent performance

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The INSIDE story of how ‘The Tramp Of Bombay’ Raj Kapoor brought the OG Tramp Charlie Chaplin to tears with a silent performance

Yesterday, December 14, was the 100th birth anniversary of the legendary Raj Kapoor. His contribution is immense and hence, the Kapoor family has gone all out to celebrate his centenary. He essayed various characters but he was immensely loved and is most remembered for his ‘Hindustani Chaplin’ avatar. Charlie Chaplin’s most famous character was the Tramp, a man with a heart of gold who has no home or job and who also has a fine sense of humour to tickle the funny bone of the audience and the characters around him. Raj Kapoor’s characters in films like Awara (1951) and Shree 420 (1955) were on the same lines. In fact, as per an article in The Times Of India dated December 14, Raj Kapoor was termed as ‘The Tramp Of Bombay’ in Greece where his films drew house full crowds.

Meanwhile, another article in The Times Of India on December 14 threw light on the unknown episode when Raj Kapoor met the OG Tramp Charlie Chaplin. This meeting happened in 1953 when the first Indian delegation, comprising Raj Kapoor, Dev Anand, Chetan Anand, Nargis, Balraj Sahni, K A Abbas and Bimal Roy visited Venice, Italy. This is when Charlie Chaplin invited the delegation members to his residence in Montreux, Switzerland, located nearly 650 kms away from Venice.

Nevertheless, the delegation undertook the journey to meet Chaplin. As per the Times of India story, Raj Kapoor spoke the most in this meeting. He asked Chaplin how ‘serio-comedy’, that is, comedy with serious elements, can be performed effortlessly. After going silent for a minute, Charlie Chaplin asked Raj Kapoor to emote silently. Raj Kapoor obliged and did as instructed for three minutes. The article said that Chaplin was moved to tears by Raj Kapoor’s act and advised him to follow his own instincts.

That’s not all. Raj Kapoor was overwhelmed by this meeting. He had tears of joy in his eyes when it was time to bid adieu. Nargis, who witnessed this scene, laughed her heart out and lovingly told Raj Kapoor to control his emotions.

Also Read: 100th birth anniversary special: When Raj Kapoor got a red carpet welcome in Moscow despite a MAJOR blunder: “Is there ANYBODY else in the world who could enter Soviet Russia WITHOUT a valid visa? It was a sight for the Gods”

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Photos: Dia Mirza snapped at an event at Angel Xpress, Bandstand

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Photos: Vijay Varma snapped outside a restaurant in Bandra

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Paatal Lok season 2 announced! First glimpse featuring Jaideep Ahlawat is out!

In a moment that has electrified the streaming world, Jaideep Ahlawat’s return as the formidable Hathi Ram Chaudhary has been confirmed with Amazon Prime Video’s release of the first poster for Paatal Lok Season 2. The acclaimed actor, whose portrayal of the complex police officer earned him a global acclaim, is set to delve back into the murky depths of India’s crime underbelly.

The newly released poster, featuring Jaideep Ahlawat’s distinctive profile in a striking black-and-white composition with bold red typography, speaks volumes about the show’s continued commitment to its noir roots. The haunting visual, marked by the show’s title पाताल लोक, masterfully captures the series’ trademark intensity and psychological depth.

Jaideep Ahlawat’s portrayal of Hathi Ram Chaudhary in the first season was widely celebrated as a masterclass in acting, earning him critical acclaim and a massive fan following. His nuanced performance brought to life the complex character of a Delhi cop navigating through the three metaphorical worlds of modern Indian society – Swarga Lok, Dharti Lok, and Paatal Lok.

 

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The first season of Paatal Lok with Jaideep Ahlawat at its center redefined Indian streaming content, setting new benchmarks for storytelling and production values. His return signals the show’s commitment to maintaining its high standards while pushing creative boundaries even further.

Also Read: Happy Birthday Abhishek Banerjee: 5 best performances of the Paatal Lok and Stree actor

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Grammy-nominated Loire Cotler joins Sonu Sood’s Fateh with composition ‘Call to Life’

When real-life hero Sonu Sood promised his directorial debut Fateh would hit all the notes of
cinematic brilliance, he wasn’t just speaking metaphorically. His upcoming cybercrime-based action saga, Fateh, ropes in Grammy-nominated Loire Cotler, the internationally acclaimed voice of Dune. Now, she lends her vocal alchemy to Fateh with a track she has composed, titled ‘Call to Life’—and it’s nothing short of a symphonic adrenaline rush.

Grammy-nominated composer and rhythm vocalist Loire Cotler, a member of Hans Zimmer’s band and famed for her unique vocal style that fuses an exotic blend of world rhythms with operatic grace, is all set to elevate the frequency of Fateh’s action-packed narrative. One pulse-pounding sequence in the film is backdropped to her composition and ethereal vocals, transforming a heart-thumping scene into an almost transcendental experience.

Speaking about the collaboration, Loire Cotler shared, “Music is a higher form of communication above everything we’ve invented, and so the language of Fateh was immaterial to composing a track for it. When Sonu walked me through the story of the film, his passion was electric. Through ‘Call to Life,’ I wanted to channel that energy and bring light, rhythm, and intensity to the film’s action sequence. It was an incredible experience to see my music and vocals breathe life into the scene.”

Marking a daring leap into direction, Sonu is pulling out all the stops for Fateh. His vision is to offer a film that doesn’t just sound powerful but feels powerful. And he’s not holding back.

He says, “It is my pride and joy to collaborate with the Grammy-nominated Loire Cotler, whose work has echoed on the global stage. What I find amazing is that it didn’t matter that Hindi was unfamiliar to her because music is the ultimate universal language. Her evocative composition in Fateh conveys everything we need and more, bringing a mystical energy to its action sequence. Having her on board was not just a choice, it was a necessity to hit the right note and offer the audience nothing but the best.”

The teaser of Fateh has already struck a chord with fans, teasing a thrilling ride of high-octane stunts, razor-sharp visuals, and a narrative that decodes the dark labyrinth of cybercrime. With Jacqueline Fernandez, Vijay Raaz, and the legendary Naseeruddin Shah joining Sonu on screen,
the film promises to be a symphony of action, intrigue, and suspense.

Produced by Sonali Sood and Umesh KR Bansal, Fateh, a gripping tale of courage, resilience, and the fight against cybercrime, is slated to be released on January 10, 2025.

Also Read: Arijit Singh croons the patriotic anthem of victory ‘Fateh Kar Fateh’ for Sonu Sood’s Fateh

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Asha Bhosle collaborates with granddaughter Zanai for ‘Saiyaan Bina’ at age 91

At 91, the legendary Asha Bhosle continues to captivate hearts, proving that age is no barrier to creativity and passion. Known as the Nightingale of India, Asha is now passing on her musical legacy to the next generation. Her latest collaboration with granddaughter Zanai Bhosle, titled ‘Saiyaan Bina,’ is a testament to this bond.

The recently released teaser of the song has already garnered admiration, offering a beautiful blend of Asha’s timeless voice and Zanai’s youthful energy. ‘Saiyaan Bina‘ promises to be a soulful melody, celebrating the family’s rich musical heritage while embracing modern elements.

Asha expressed her joy in working with Zanai, sharing that it’s heartening to see her granddaughter carry forward their family’s musical tradition with such dedication. For Zanai, performing alongside her grandmother is both an honor and a dream come true. She often credits Asha as her greatest inspiration, and this collaboration reflects their deep emotional and creative connection.

Fans and music lovers eagerly await the full release of ‘Saiyaan Bina,’ which is expected to showcase the perfect harmony between two generations of talent. Asha’s continued contribution to music at this stage of her life is a reminder of her unparalleled legacy.

This song stands as a beautiful bridge between tradition and modernity, ensuring that Asha Bhosle’s evergreen artistry continues to inspire for generations to come.

Also Read: Asha Bhosle raises concerns over rising divorce rates: “I hear about couples sending divorce papers every month”

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Tamannaah Bhatia shares behind-the-scenes moments from Da-Bangg Tour Reloaded 2024

Tamannaah Bhatia gave fans a sneak peek into the behind-the-scenes action of the Da-Bangg Tour Reloaded 2024. Sharing pictures on Instagram, she captioned them, “The Shebang Behind the Dabangg Tour.”

One of the highlights includes a moment with superstar Salman Khan, where the duo can be seen grooving together. The post has left fans excited, offering a glimpse of the camaraderie and energy behind the star-studded tour. She also shared pictures from the backstage and rehearsals.

Tamannaah Bhatia stuns in Gown

Tamannaah Bhatia wowed fans with stunning pictures from Da-Bangg Tour Reloaded 2024, donning a sultry animal-print gown featuring a sweetheart neckline. She paired the bold outfit with smoky, well-defined eyes, rouge lips, and drop earrings, finishing the look with brown pumps.

Fans flooded the comment section with heart and fire emojis, praising the star’s dazzling appearance and effortless glam.

 

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Salman Khan and Tamannaah Bhatia Shine in Dubai

Salman Khan and Tamannaah Bhatia delivered a high-energy dance performance at the Da-Bangg The Tour – Reloaded in Dubai on December 7, dazzling the audience. The event also featured stars like Sonakshi Sinha, Sunil Grover, and Maniesh Paul.

Tamannaah Bhatia’s work front

On the work front, Tamannaah was last seen in Sikandar Ka Muqaddar. Reflecting on the experience, she shared, “Neeraj sir’s films highlight how common people navigate extraordinary situations. This role brought something new to my career.”

Tamannaah Bhatia, known for her versatility, shared her excitement about her role in Sikandar Ka Muqaddar, now streaming on Netflix. “I’ve done roles that were simple and not so glamorous. But in this film, the look and feel are very real, and playing such characters is always exciting for me,” she said.

The film also features Avinash Tiwary and Jimmy Sheirgill. Sheirgill portrays Inspector Jasvinder Singh, a relentless cop pursuing a haunting case. Fans can catch the gripping drama exclusively on Netflix.

Also Read : Anup Jalota, Shankar Mahadevan, and Hariharan reject Nora Fatehi & Tamannaah Bhatia’s guest appearances for ‘Triveni’ concert

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Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Heeramandi secures 4th spot in Google Trends’ Global top-searched shows of 2024

Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Heeramandi – The Diamond Bazaar on Netflix has gained significant attention since its release. With its visuals, music, and narrative, the show has been well-received. Now, Heeramandi has made an impact globally, securing 4th position in Google Trends’ top-searched movies and shows of 2024.

Google Trends has unveiled the top-searched movies and shows of 2024 globally. While many international shows has made it’s place in the top positions, it’s remarkable to see that Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s lavish Netflix period drama Heeramandi comes in fourth. Remarkably, it is the only India series that has made it’s name in this global list. Moreover, while the international conversations like, US election’s, and climate events, Heeramandi has managed to make it’s place in this list.

Apart from this, Heeramandi proudly holds the title of IMDb’s #1 Most Popular Indian Web Series of 2024. Heeramandi stands as a true masterpiece, marking Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s remarkable debut in the digital realm and a significant milestone in his illustrious career.

Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar is an eight-part series streaming in 190 countries on Netflix since May 1st.

Also Read : Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love & War to feature 80s disco set starring Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal: Report 

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