EXCLUSIVE: Anurag Kashyap reveals many consider him “not commercial enough,” slams hero-centric casting culture; says, “We are living in a kind of La La Land”

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap is gearing up for the release of his much-awaited directorial Nishaanchi, but as he revealed in an exclusive conversation with Bollywood Hungama, the journey to bring the film to life wasn’t an easy one.

“I wrote it in 2016,” Kashyap shared, before explaining why the film took years to materialise. “To get the right people together, in the sense, it is the kind of film—we had the actors, we had one actor set up when we wanted to start it in 2017–18. Then there was sudden silence. I met a lot of actors, and everyone loved the script, but you know how everything has become hero-centric. Plus, not a lot of people think that I am commercial enough for them. Everyone wants to make sure on the table whether they are doing a blockbuster. It’s not about a good film or a bad film.”

When asked if actors don’t already know that his films are driven by his vision, Kashyap explained, “That happens in the beginning of the career. This is not Hollywood. We are living in a very kind of La La Land. Westerners would not survive in this country. I think it is not where the actors feel like wanting to act. Look at Marvel movies—the actors in those films still want to step out and act in different kinds of roles. Yahan par 24 ghanta sabko Marvel hi rehna hai. You have to keep reinventing, but what is working? Only those actors are working who decide to work for themselves. When the agencies start deciding for you…”

Speaking of Nishaanchi, it is releasing on September 19. Directed by Anurag Kashyap and produced by Ajay Rai and Ranjan Singh under Jar Pictures, in association with Flip Films, Nishaanchi is written by Prasoon Mishra, Ranjan Chandel, and Anurag Kashyap. The film is headlined by debutant Aaishvary Thackeray in a fiery double role, alongside a brilliant cast featuring Vedika Pinto, Monika Panwar, Mohd Zeeshan Ayyub, and Kumud Mishra in pivotal roles.

Nishaanchi hits theatres nationwide on September 19.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Anurag Kashyap REACTS to Anuparna Roy crediting him at historic Venice Film Festival win; says, “It is her own grit and passion”

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Anshuman Jha-owned First Ray Films completes 10 years, announces slate of six bold new projects

In a country where independent film companies rarely survive the first few years, First Ray Films has quietly done the unthinkable — thrived for a decade. And not by playing safe. This indie house has built its reputation on high-concept, first-of-their-kind stories – from India’s first Social Media Thriller Mona_Darling (2016 – AmazonPrime), to the country’s first mainstream LGBTQ+ road trip film Hum Bhi Akele, Tum Bhi Akele (2020 – JioHotStar), to the world’s first animal-lover vigilante actioner Lakadbaggha (2023 – BMSstream) . First Ray Films, is India’s only start-up independent film production company to have carved a niche in delivering high-concept cinema and making space for themselves.

Now, as it enters its second decade, First Ray Films isn’t slowing down — it’s doubling down. The company just dropped a dynamic slate of 6 films over the next 12 months. 3 to release theatrically over the next 6 months & 3 go into production.

The line-up kicks off with Anshuman Jha’s directorial debut – the bizarre black comedy thriller – Lord Curzon Ki Haveli followed by Harish Vyas’s heartwarming father-son coming-of-age tale Hari Ka Om and lastly – the much-awaited sequel Lakadbaggha 2, which wrapped shoot earlier this year. The above films will be seeing a theatrical release over the next 6 months.

Alongside these theatrical releases, the studio will roll out three new productions, which go on floors in 2026 with three debutant film-makers in Hindi, along with launching two fresh faces in a unique love story.

Coming up in 2026: three fresh productions — a new feature with award-winning firebrand film-maker, a project titled Bajrangi with auteur Parth Saurabh (Pokhar Ke Dunu Paar), and the debut feature Ovi & The Monk from Emerson Boston Graduate Jasraj Padhaye.

1. Ovi & The Monk – When the world shut down, his heart opened up. In the wake of his father’s loss during the pandemic, a brave young boy(Ovi) treks across the Himalayas to reunite a stranded dog(Monk) with its owner — discovering compassion, courage, and duty along the way.

2. ⁠Bajrangi – Set in the heartland of Bihar, this raw and earthy drama redefines the meaning of service in a changing India, offering a fresh lens on tradition and duty.

3. ⁠A new ‘untitled’ genre feature(Noir-thriller) set in Mumbai at the cusp of the millennium, with an award-winning firebrand Indian film maker about twins

“Independent film making is about faith and fire,” says Anshuman Jha — actor, producer, and founder of First Ray Films. Speaking on the milestone, Anshuman said: “I have always believed that films don’t fail, budgets fail. For us to have survived for over a decade is a testament to the audiences who are willing to embrace stories that are fresh, disruptive, and honest. I am deeply grateful to our investors whose faith has kept us going – their belief proves that films can not only make a cultural impact but also be a profitable game in the long run, much like what A24 has shown globally. My hope is to turn it into an ecosystem that survives beyond me. We aren’t creating projects, we are creating honest cinema – in collaboration with talent from all around the globe – which will stand the test of time – hopefully. Our slate is bold, disruptive & hopefully unforgettable.”

With this line-up, First Ray Films reaffirms its position as a rare, uncompromising voice in India’s film ecosystem — one that places storytelling, risk-taking, and originality above all else.

Also Read: Sarah Jane Dias joins the cast of Lakadbaggha 2 – The Monkey Business as Anshuman Jha welcomes her into the expanding animal-lover vigilante universe

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Soha Ali Khan reflects on relationship with Kareena Kapoor Khan; says, “I feel like we have an independent relationship and there are many things that we connect over”

Soha Ali Khan shared insights into her childhood with her brother, actor Saif Ali Khan, and her evolving relationship with his wife, Kareena Kapoor Khan.

In a recent interview with The Quint, Soha revealed that she and Saif spent little time together during their formative years. She explained, “We were hardly under the same roof growing up, because there’s a nine-year difference between us. And by the time I was born, he was pretty much on his way to boarding school in England.”

Despite this, Soha acknowledged the bond they share as adults. She mentioned, “Now, it’s completely different. Ever since moving to the city, and I had lived with him for some time when I first moved here, and then quickly moved out and got my own place. But we connect on many levels… He’s a very different person to I am. But we have lots in common, lots of things that perhaps you feel other people may not get.”

She added, “That’s what siblings do, right? We have shared trauma, shared experiences, shared parents… Now, when you’re like 46 and 55, then the age gap seems less and less.”

Regarding Kareena Kapoor Khan, Soha admitted that it took time for her to trust her sister-in-law. She shared, “I feel that Kareena is an incredibly genuine person. One of the things that matters most to her is family. She is a very hands-on parent, wife, daughter, sister, and so many other things.”

She further stated, “We have known each other for many years, but it has taken time, as I think any genuine relationship does… I feel like sometimes it takes time to build trust and to get to know someone and to have an independent relationship with them outside of, you know, your husband. So I feel like that has happened… such that I feel like we have an independent relationship and there are many things that we connect over. For example, you know, I think being really good daughters.”

Soha’s reflections highlight the complexities of sibling relationships and the evolving dynamics within families. Her candidness offers a glimpse into the personal connections that shape the lives of Bollywood’s prominent figures.

Also Read : EXCLUSIVE: Soha Ali Khan hints at including men in her podcast All About Her; says, “Men are allowed to come on as experts”

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Aamir Khan credits himself for introducing PATHBREAKING changes with Lagaan: “It was first film to have first AD, walkie-talkies, sync sound; Ronit Roy SECURED the sets with 150 guards, a FIRST in Bollywood”

In an interview with Komal Nahta, Aamir Khan shared a fascinating answer when asked about its weakness. He also revealed how he became a pioneer by introducing several ground-breaking practices during the making of his first production, Lagaan (2001).

When asked about his weakness, Aamir said, “I am not able to work according to a budget. We had hoped Lagaan would be made in Rs. 12 crores, but its budget ended up being Rs. 25 crores (laughs)!”

He continued, “During Lagaan, we had done extensive prep; ideally, there shouldn’t have been a problem. One day, I was doing my make-up. Suddenly, Reena (Reena Dutta) and Rao sahab (production manager Shamala S. Rao) told me that there was a problem. They said, ‘Ashu (director Ashutosh Gowariker) had asked us for 200 extras. We arranged for it. But now he is saying that 200 extras are not enough’. I left my make-up on and met him. He told me, ‘200 people look like just 20 people’ as the shooting site was wide. He asked for 800-1000 more people. I realized he was right. Reena aur Rao sahab were angry with me. They were like, ‘Whatever Ashu says, he agrees’! But Ashu was stating a fact. Reena asked me, ‘Toh fir aaj kya karein’. I replied, ‘Aaj cricket khelte hai’ (laughs)!”

 

Aamir added, “Then I suggested that we could film a small scene. Half a day had gone by, but let us utilize the other half. Or else, we could shoot. But galat shoot karna maza nahin aata hai.”

Aamir Khan revealed, “When I turned producer, I decided that I’ll work the way I always wanted to. I introduced the first AD system. Then, there were no walkie-talkies. We brought the communication system as well. For the first time, a film was shot in just one schedule. We even got sync sound, which was rarely done in mainstream cinema. I always wanted to shoot in sync sound and shoot in one schedule.  I wanted the real sound of the actor; there’s a certain quality to it. It can be tiring to recreate it (during the dubbing process); you need to relive those moments.”

Aamir Khan further stated, “Those days, there was no security on the set. The poor junior artist supplier used to provide security! For Lagaan, I called Ronit Roy and asked him to secure the set as it was in the middle of nowhere. It was built on a huge area. I wanted to secure the building where we were staying and also the equipment. There were 150 security guards. Again, this was done for the first time in Hindi cinema.”

Aamir summed up, “For the first time, a security system, communications system, first AD system, sync sound and one schedule happened with Lagaan. Definitely, all of these things worked and they are the norms today.”

Also Read: Aamir Khan reveals he wanted to release 3 Idiots through pay-per-view on DTH: “But payment facility then was not smooth”; opens up on Sitaare Zameen Par’s YouTube performance: “Has done 20x business than normal…happy to sell its OTT rights 4-5 months after theatrical release”

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Kriti Sanon spreads her wings with first tattoo, sends out an inspiring message; watch

Bollywood actress Kriti Sanon surprised her fans with a heartfelt revelation as she unveiled her very first tattoo on social media. Taking to Instagram, Kriti shared a series of pictures flaunting a delicate ankle tattoo of a bird in flight, symbolizing freedom, dreams, and new beginnings.

The actress captioned her post with an emotional note: “Never thought I would do this.. But never say never.. Just got INKED… A promise fulfilled. A reminder that I can fly higher.. to the sunrise! To anyone out there with dreams in their eyes… Take that leap you’re scared of.. It may not be easy, But you’ll find your wings, You’ll find your rhythm, You’ll learn to fly!  P.S. thank you @alienstattooindia for bringing this one so beautifully to life!”

 

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The tattoo, crafted by Alien’s Tattoo India, features a minimalist yet intricate design of a bird, with fine detailing that reflects both grace and strength. In the pictures, Kriti can be seen sitting comfortably at the tattoo studio while the artist worked on her design, followed by glimpses of her admiring the final result.

Fans flooded her post with love, praising not just the artwork but also her inspiring words. Many called it a “beautiful reminder of courage,” while others appreciated the actress for sharing such a personal milestone with her followers.

Known for her grounded charm and versatile performances, Kriti Sanon has always encouraged her fans to dream big and chase their passions. With this tattoo, she has now turned her philosophy into a permanent mark, a reminder of resilience and self-belief.

The actress, who is riding high on multiple film projects, continues to connect with her audience beyond the screen. Her new tattoo is not just body art it’s a story of empowerment, symbolizing the courage to take risks and embrace change.

With this bold step, Kriti has once again shown why she remains a favourite among fans not just as an actress, but as an inspiration.

Also Read : Kriti Sanon wishes to produces films that highlight social issues; says, “If a film can be both engaging and thought-provoking, it can leave a lasting impact”

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6 years of Section 375: Writer Manish Gupta on the film’s relevance today, “Laws in India continue to be heavily gender-biased”

Filmmaker Ajay Bahl’s Section 375 sparked a lot of conversations about the #MeToo movement and the cases where men were wrongly accused of sexual crimes. Starring Akshaye Khanna, Richa Chadha, Meera Chopra and Rahul Bhat, the movie completes six years today. On the film’s anniversary, Manish Gupta, one of its writers, spoke about it and its subject in an interview with us.

Do you feel the MenToo movement got side-lined?
Absolutely, the MenToo movement about men’s rights never got the momentum that it deserves. Laws in India continue to be heavily gender-biased. The new laws under BNS and BNSS have brought in many reforms, but a man still remains vulnerable to a mere verbal complaint filed by a woman.

So, what is the solution?
The problem actually lies in the socio-economic and cultural diversity of India. In rural India, such laws are needed because abuse of women is rampant in rural interiors. Rural women are still subordinate to a patriarchal system and hence very vulnerable and unprotected from exploitation. But in urban cities, women are very independent and as powerful as men are. That gives people an opportunity to misuse these laws to fulfil their ulterior motives like extortion, vengeance, settling disputes, etc

Manish, Section 375, which you wrote, resonates with a lot of men who have been accused wrongly of MeToo crimes
I’m thrilled that my film Section 375 has completed six years. The film has achieved cult status over the years. I still get messages from people who’ve just seen the film on OTT and are deeply influenced by the sensitive subject that it tackles, which is very relevant in our society today where gender-biased laws are destroying lives, careers and families.

The film had a resonant impact
My labour of love Section 375 is considered one of the best courtroom dramas ever made in India. Today, filmmakers wanting to make a courtroom drama film often refer to Section 375 as a benchmark and view the film to understand how an authentic and realistic courtroom drama should be made. What could be a better compliment than that?

How much research on men’s harassment actually went into the film?
I’d spent three years researching the subject; visiting courts, sitting in innumerable court hearings, meeting many lawyers, rape-accused men, rape survivor women. Looking back now, I feel satisfied that all the hard work has really paid off, and my vision about this sensitive issue has been immortalized in the public domain forever through the medium of cinema.

Also Read: Richa Chadha and Akshaye Khanna’s Section 375 to re-release in theatres

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Diana Penty recalls Deepika Padukone as calm force during Cocktail shoot: “That made it so much easier for me”

Diana Penty made her Bollywood debut with Cocktail (2012), a romantic drama that featured her alongside Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone. The film explored love, friendship, and complex emotions, and Diana’s pairing with Deepika as friends on screen was widely appreciated.

Looking back at her debut, Diana shared how Deepika played a vital role in making her first experience in front of the camera less daunting. “She was such a great support for me, as it was my first film and I didn’t know anybody. I didn’t know how things worked on a set. I remember my first day and my first scene. They were all there, cheering me on. It was so sweet,” she said in a recent interview.

Diana added that she never felt intimidated by working alongside Deepika. Instead, both Deepika and Saif made her feel at ease. “Deepika, throughout, became a calm and reassuring force for me. That made it so much easier for me as a first-time actor,” she said.

Cocktail, directed by Homi Adajania, also featured Dimple Kapadia and Boman Irani in pivotal roles.

Also Read: Tamannaah Bhatia, Diana Penty starrer Do You Wanna Partner gets its anthem with Jasleen Royal’s soulful track ‘Udd Jaavan’

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Karishma Sharma hospitalised for head injury after train mishap in Mumbai

Bollywood actor Karishma Sharma was hospitalised after a frightening incident involving a local train in Mumbai. On Thursday, Sharma took to Instagram Stories to inform her well-wishers that she sustained injuries after a train jumped as it was speeding.

The mishap occurred while she was en route to a shoot in Churchgate. “I was wearing a sari and decided to take the local train. As soon as I boarded, it began to speed up and I realised my friends couldn’t make it. Out of panic, I jumped but I lost balance, fell on my back and hit my head,” she wrote.

Following the fall, Karishma revealed that she was left with multiple bruises. “My head is swollen, I’ve injured my back and the doctors have advised an MRI. I’ve been kept under observation to make sure the head injury isn’t serious,” she added. Despite her injuries, she expressed gratitude for the support, writing, “Please keep me in your prayers for a speedy recovery. Your love means so much.”

Tiyasha Paul, a close friend who was with Sharma earlier that day, also posted updates via social media. She also shared old videos of Karishma preparing for the shoot before the mix-up, saying it broke her heart to see the sharp contrast.

Karishma Sharma is known for her work across films, television, and OTT platforms. Her film credits include Pyaar Ka Punchnama 2, Ujda Chaman, Ek Villain Returns, Hotel Milan, and Fastey Fasaatey. On OTT, she has appeared in shows like Ragini MMS: Returns, Hum – I’m Because of Us, Fixerr, and more, while her television appearances include Pavitra Rishta, Ye Hai Mohabbatein, and Silsila Pyaar Ka.

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Saachi Bindra gets emotional as Mannu Kya Karegga shines at BAFTA; says, “Ek choti si bacchi ka sapna tha yeh din”

Saachi Bindra starrer Mannu Kya Karegga recently had a special screening at BAFTA, London, where it received a positive response. The musical rom-com was appreciated for its heartfelt storytelling and representation of Indian cinema on an international stage. Saachi Bindra expressed her happiness, calling it a “dream come true” to see herself as a heroine on the big screen.

She shared, “Ek chhoti si bachchi ka sapna tha yeh din, jab woh apne aap ko bade parde par dekhegi as the heroine… and for me, for the very first time, seeing myself on the big screen was at BAFTA in London, with my family. Babaji has been so kind, and to sit there with the people I love most, watching this dream unfold is a feeling I will carry with me forever. Rab rakha.”

 

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Mannu Kya Karegga, featuring Saachi Bindra and Vyom in lead roles, presents a heartfelt romantic story that delves into themes of love, life, and self-discovery. The recently released trailer has already caught the audience’s attention, highlighting the fresh on-screen pairing and their undeniable chemistry. Fans have praised the actors for bringing authenticity and charm to their roles, making the story relatable and engaging.

Directed by Ssanjay Tripaathy, the film blends emotion, romance, and moments of introspection, exploring how personal choices shape relationships and self-growth. The film’s narrative promises to strike a chord with audiences looking for both entertainment and a meaningful cinematic experience.

Mannu Kya Karegga is scheduled to release in theatres across India on September 12, and anticipation is building as viewers look forward to witnessing the journey of its lead characters unfold on the big screen.

Also Read : Mannu Kya Karegga receives standing ovation at BAFTA screening; director Ssanjay Tripathy says, “To see audiences connect globally is humbling”

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Photos: Malaika Arora snapped outside a salon in Bandra

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Lisa Mishra returns to YouTube FanFest stage after 18 years of her first launch on the platform: “This is not just a performance for me; it’s a celebration of my journey”

YouTube India FanFest will feature a special moment as singer-songwriter Lisa Mishra takes the stage, reflecting on her full-circle journey with the platform. Lisa, who began sharing covers and original music on YouTube in 2007 at the age of 13, was among the early creators on the platform soon after its global launch.

Eighteen years later, Lisa returns to the platform that played a key role in her artistic journey, this time as a recognized name in the music industry. Celebrated for her versatile voice and her ease in blending cultures and genres, she has established herself as one of India’s notable crossover artists.

At FanFest, Lisa will present a specially curated setlist that includes some of her popular tracks along with trending numbers, giving fans a chance to relive her musical journey. The performance will also feature a collaboration with a leading YouTuber whose name is being kept under wraps making it one of the key highlights of the evening.

Speaking about her performance, Lisa Mishra said “YouTube has always been home for me, it’s where I started as a teenager with nothing but a laptop and a dream. To do Fan Fest after 18 years with my home platform feels surreal. This is not just a performance for me; it’s a celebration of my journey, of the fans who have stood by me, and of the entity that gave me my start. I can’t wait to sing, groove, and set the stage on fire with all of you.”

Also Read : Lisa Mishra shares excitement ahead of debut performance at IFFM 2025: “I’m truly honoured to be performing at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne this year”

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Homebound team Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa set off for TIFF with viral ‘Bijuria’ dance; watch

Janhvi Kapoor has once again shown her knack for clever marketing with a fun and lively moment that quickly caught fans’ attention. Ahead of their flight to the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), Janhvi brought her Homebound co-stars Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa on board for a spontaneous dance reel to her latest track, ‘Bijuria’. Even director Neeraj Ghaywan made a brief but fun cameo in the video.

The song, a 2025 reboot of the early 2000s Sonu Nigam original, is part of the album for Janhvi’s upcoming film Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari. While Janhvi plays the titular role of Tulsi Kumari, Varun Dhawan stars opposite her as Sunny Sanskari. The film also features Sanya Malhotra and Rohit Saraf in key roles and is slated for release on October 2.

Janhvi’s Instagram reel, captioned “Humein laage na nazariya  #Bijuria #homebound ”, quickly drew reactions online. Varun Dhawan commented, “Soo good ” while Rohit Saraf added, “Hahahaha too good.” In the video, Ishaan and Vishal matched Janhvi’s energy as they recreated moments from the music video in a lighthearted and humorous way.

At the time of filming the reel, the Homebound cast was enroute to TIFF, where the film is set to be showcased under the Gala Presentations category. Homebound previously premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, and excitement around its international screenings continues to build.

A release date for Indian theatres or OTT platforms has yet to be confirmed. Since landing in Toronto, Janhvi and Vishal have also been spotted in a viral clip enjoying local food together, further adding to the buzz around the film’s appearance at TIFF. Meanwhile, ‘Bijuria’ is already gaining traction as a dance hit and promotional anthem, giving an energetic boost to both Homebound and Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari.

Also Read: Vishal Jethwa excited as Homebound heads to Toronto International Film Festival; says, “It feels amazing to be in the spotlight”

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