Hit machine and rockstar Himesh Reshammiya is geared up to deliver an electrifying musical concert experience that’s possibly never happened before. As a musical treat to his fans, the rockstar announced the ‘Cap Mania Tour, ‘ presented by Saregama Live, promising to be the grandest musical concert ever held. The tour is scheduled to kickstart on May 31 from Mumbai, followed by the next show in Delhi on July 19.
The Cap Mania Tour is poised to create a never-seen-before grand visual spectacle, backed by music that will get the crowd grooving with Himesh Reshammiya’s spellbinding vocal prowess. The singer, also hailed as the Super Hit Machine, has created a cultural shift by delivering more than 1000 blockbuster hit songs with over 100 billion views across YouTube and audio streams.
His songs have not only united music lovers but also carry a very profound recall value. His music has been hailed as party starters, love anthems, heartbreak anthems, and a lot more. In fact, his classic album ‘Aap Ka Surroor‘ was the second-highest-selling album in the world after Micheal Jackson’s album ‘Thriller‘. After announcing the tour, his fans are expecting him to recreate the undefeated magic of ‘Aap Ka Surroor,’ ‘Jhalak Dikhla Jaa,’ ‘Namste London,’ ‘Aashiq Banaya Aapne,’ and ‘Dil Ke Taj Mahal’ among others.
Earlier, Himesh Reshammiya had taken to his social media handle to share a post of his signature cap, devoid of any announcement or details. His post sparked curiosity among his enthusiastic fans with the eagerness of what’s to come. His fans were anticipating a musical concert, and now that he has announced the same, netizens can’t keep calm about experiencing the musical magic of Himesh Reshammiya on the stage, bringing back the charm of his classic songs and the nostalgia.
R Madhavan came up with not-so-known trivia and stories from his life in the first episode of The Filmy Hustle, hosted by distributor-exhibitor Akshaye Rathi. A large chunk of the interview is about Rocketry: The Nambi Effect (2022), which featured Madhavan as actor, writer, director and producer. He opened up like never before on the love and respect he received, thanks to this film.
R Madhavan said, “France played an important role in Rocketry and helped Nambi Nararyan sir become what he is today. This is why I decided to shoot in France. I even got permission to shoot inside the rocket facility. The government went out of the way to help us shoot there. They even hoisted the Indian flag along with the French flag; they were so kind to us.”
After speaking about how the Indian government pushed the film and its Cannes premiere, R Madhavan revealed, “I had not realized the extent to which the film had percolated. When I was shooting for Shaitaan (2024) in the UK, I got a call from the French Embassy, inviting me for the Bastille Day Celebration. It was fairly last minute and I was all set to decline since I was shooting. But Shaitaan’s director Vikas Bahl told me, ‘You are not shooting that day and Paris is one hour away by flight. Jaa ke aao’.”
He added, “I packed my bags. They had paid for my ticket. There were people from all over the world sitting on those tables and then there was a head table as well. The last thing I expected was to sit on the head table. On top of that, I was right next to the honourable Prime Minister (Narendra Modi), Mr Ajit Doval and the French President Emmanuel Macron. I wondered, ‘What did I do to be sitting beside these highly successful people?’. Then I realized that they had seen Rocketry.”
He raised laughs as he said, “They took a while to recognize me as they had only seen me with a beard! Also, I was looking very different, thanks to Shaitaan. The moment they realized that I made Rocketry, the amount of respect I got from absolutely everybody, it was the biggest vindication for my beliefs. That has to be the single most unforgettable moment of my life when the President of France clicked the selfie.”
Legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar breathed his last on April 4. His co-star Moushumi Chatterjee looks back at her experience of working with the late veteran and specifically speaks about the song ‘Hai Hai Yeh Majboori’.
How would you like to recall your co-star and director of Roti Kapada Aur Makaan?
Look, everyone says good things about people who die. It is true that Manoj Kumar was an excellent director with an unbeatable music sense. But I had a bad experience regarding the song ‘Hai hai yeh majboori’.
You mean Lataji’s all-time hit filmed on Zeenat Aman? That was meant to be filmed on you?
Yes! See, you have to be convinced, you have to use your common sense. The gaana, which you are asking about, the language cannot go with Zeenat’s character. She was an urban sophisticated character. The language in the song ‘Teri do Takiya di naukri’… it was suited to my character Tulsi who was rustic and Punjabi. If you see my other song in the film ‘Mehngai maar gayi’ with me and Premnathji. It wouldn’t be suited to Zeenat, no?
So, are you saying ‘Hai hai yeh majboori’ was snatched away from you?
Yes. Now, what happened was, during that time I was pregnant with my first daughter. It was my first baby and it was not planned. I didn’t want to abort the baby. Chandra Barot ji (assistant to Manoj Kumar) thought I was not interested in the film. Since I was married to Hemant Kumar’s son, I was not ambitious, I was disinterested. So, he was a little bit upset with me.
You mean Manoj Kumarji?
Manoj Kumarji yes. But he is no more. I can’t talk only nicely about him because truth is truth, truth many people can’t take nicely. Shashi Kapoor himself, who is also no more, he told me at the jubilee function of Roti Kapada Aur Makaan that everyone was getting a trophy, except me.
You attended the function and you didn’t get a trophy?
Yes, I attended the function and as Shashi said, I was the only one not given a trophy. I was very nice and innocent. Shashi said that everybody thought you are not interested in your acting career.
Was that true?
Look, I was never very ambitious. But I worked hard, balancing my responsibilities as a daughter-in-law, wife, mother and actress. Family comes first, as it should for everyone. But I worked hard and by God’s grace, in spite of the rumours spread to sabotage my career, I gave hits all through my career.
I was told you didn’t do ‘Hai hai yeh majboori’ because you didn’t want to shoot in the rain in your pregnant state?
No no no, it was rubbish. They said this to cover up the truth. I never allowed my films to suffer for my pregnancy. The song with Premnathji ‘Mehngayi maar gayi’, at that time also I was 5-months pregnant. I sang in that too two-three such songs that people advised me not to. I did not compromise while I was working. When producers had to compromise or adjust a bit, and if that affected the films during my pregnancy, I would return the signing amount.
How was Manoj Kumar as a director?
Manoj Kumar was an excellent director, very skilled director and he did his homework very nicely and rest he had a very good assistant (Chandra Barot), his camera sense was excellent. I remember he shot a full scene in one take. There was one word in a scene that was coming out with a heavy Bengali accent. Chandraji said we will fix it in the dubbing. But Manojji was adamant that I get it right during the shooting, no matter how much time it took. That was the kind of director he was. A perfectionist.
R Madhavan came up with not-so-known trivia and stories from his life in the first episode of The Filmy Hustle podcast, hosted by distributor-exhibitor Akshaye Rathi. He also opened up about the cancel culture that exists today and how he was slammed for his otherwise much-loved film, Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein (2001).
R Madhavan noted, “Social media keeps us in line. The comments can be so brutal. You can’t afford to ignore it. At the same time, you can’t make their comments the yardstick on which you make your next project.”
He said, “Everyone criticized Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein. My question to them is – at a time when phones and social media didn’t exist, how did you contact a girl? What was considered decent? If (you arrive at a place) knowing that the girl (you like) is there and you approach her decently, (there’s nothing wrong in it). Going by their logic, my father would have been accused of stalking.”
He remarked, “Every month, there used to be festivals in my village as it was an opportunity for social interaction. How do you meet a girl in a city today? For a normal lower middle-class person, where is the opportunity to meet a woman in the most decent way? If I have to write a story, how do I write it that a guy meets a woman without social media and strikes up a conversation? My character in Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein did what he did. We can argue till the cows come home. All I want to say is – give the boys a chance.”
The actor continued, “We used to go to nightclubs where out of 100 guys, two would be haraamis. They’ll touch girls in the wrong manner and give the guys a bad name. But there would be 10 guys who’ll have the courage to decently approach a girl. 60% of the guys would be such that unko himmat nahin hoti thi ladki ke saath bolne ki. Now the number has jumped to 90%. 90% of the guys now are afraid to make the move.”
He added, “I remember shooting for Rocketry: The Nambi Effect (2022). One of the actresses was walking down the road with me while we were explaining the scenes. She was very pretty. A guy walked up to her and asked me if he could speak to her. I said, ‘I am okay’. He told her, ‘You are very beautiful. You have a very charming smile. I want to know if you are free to have coffee with me?’. He asked in the sweetest way.”
R Madhavan then revealed, “The girl held his hand and replied, ‘I am engaged to a handsome, lovely man. But if I was not, I would have loved to go out with you. Can you please not give up on this habit of telling a girl what you feel instead of texting her? We girls are dying for guys to approach us’. This happened in front of my eyes.”
He ended his answer by exulting, “I have to understand this culture. I need to find the thin line in a way that I won’t be criticized and yet tell a story.”
With every new asset, Excel Entertainment is steadily amping up anticipation for its upcoming action thriller, Ground Zero. Following a gripping teaser, the latest poster deepens the intrigue — just a day ahead of the trailer launch, the makers have dropped their most striking reveal yet: a glimpse at the face of the once-faceless enemy.
The poster showcases Emraan Hashmi as BSF Commandant Narendra Nath Dhar Dubey, positioned alongside his fellow soldiers, while a shadowy, veiled figure lurks just beyond a fractured wall — suggesting an imminent standoff. Visually intense and charged with suspense, the imagery has ignited fresh buzz around the film. Alongside the reveal, the makers shared the caption: “A faceless enemy in shadows, a BSF officer in pursuit. #GroundZero, trailer out tomorrow.”
Starring Emraan Hashmi as real-life BSF Commandant Narendra Nath Dhar Dubey, Ground Zero is inspired by true events and brings to screen one of the best BSF operations in last 50 years. Adding to the authenticity, the trailer will be launched in the presence of Deputy Commandant Dubey himself, along with Emraan Hashmi, Sai Tamhankar, and the makers.
Excel Entertainment presents an Excel Entertainment Production, produced by Ritesh Sidhwani & Farhan Akhtar. Directed by Tejas Deoskar, the film is co-produced by Kassim Jagmagia, Vishal Ramchandani, Sundeep C Sidhwani, Arhan Bagati, Talisman Films, Abhishek Kumar, and Nishikant Roy.
With the trailer dropping tomorrow, the countdown to Ground Zero has officially begun. The film storms into cinemas on April 25, 2025.
In heartbreaking news from the world of entertainment, actress Jacqueline Fernandez’s mother, Kim Fernandez, passed away on Sunday after a brief period of hospitalization. She had been undergoing treatment at Lilavati Hospital in Bandra following a severe stroke in March. While several media outlets have confirmed the sad demise, the Fernandez family is yet to issue an official statement.
Kim Fernandez had been battling serious health complications since the stroke that occurred during the last week of March. She was urgently admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Lilavati Hospital, where she had remained under close medical supervision. In light of her mother’s deteriorating condition, Jacqueline had opted out of a scheduled IPL performance in Guwahati, ahead of the match between Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders, to be by her side. At the time, a source close to the actress was quoted in a report by Hindustan Times, saying, “Jacqueline’s mother is still in the ICU and recovering, as the family waits for updates from the doctors. During this difficult time, Jacqueline has chosen to stay by her mother’s side and will unfortunately miss the IPL performance.”
Known to be extremely close to her mother, Jacqueline has often credited Kim Fernandez for being her emotional anchor and support system. The two shared a strong bond, and Jacqueline has previously spoken about the influence her mother has had on her life and career. The actress, who is usually active on social platforms, has understandably stayed away from public interactions in the past few weeks as she is believed to be spending time with her family during this challenging time.
Further details regarding the final rites and any public statement from Jacqueline or her representatives are still awaited.
We at Bollywood Hungama, offer our heartfelt condolences to Jacqueline Fernandez and her family.
Salman Khan is one of the most beloved superstars in the country, with a filmography that boasts some truly remarkable films. Among them, one of his most loved and appreciated films is Bajrangi Bhaijaan, which was released in 2015. Not only did he deliver one of the finest performances of his career, but the film also won the National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment at the 63rd National Film Awards.
Salman Khan’s fans have always eagerly awaited a sequel to the film, and speculation suggests that he is in discussions with screenwriter V. Vijayendra Prasad. According to an independent industry source, “Salman Khan has met V. Vijayendra Prasad a couple of days back. They have come up with an idea and discussions are on that could be for Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2. Moreover, there is a chance of possible collaboration between V. Vijayendra Prasad and director Kabir Khan, the trio is coming together. However, nothing has been finalized yet.”
While the original film touched hearts with its emotional narrative and won widespread acclaim, it will be exciting to see, what direction the sequel might take.
Moreover, V. Vijayendra Prasad is regarded as one of the most successful screenwriters in India and is the only writer to have contributed to several of the biggest films in Indian cinema. His notable works include Bobbili Simham (1994), Magadheera (2009), Eega (2012), the Baahubali duology (2015–2017), Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015), and RRR (2022).
Hrithik Roshan, who recently completed 25 years in the Indian entertainment industry, expressed his desire to collaborate with Christopher Nolan, the Academy Award-winning British-American filmmaker. The actor made the statement while on the Atlanta leg of his USA tour, which drew a crowd of nearly 5,000 attendees.
During an interactive session, Hrithik was asked about his dream director. He responded by acknowledging his father, Rakesh Roshan, as the first director to fulfill that dream. “Rakesh Roshan – that dream happened right in the beginning,” he said, referring to his 2000 debut Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai. “Now, I’d actually like to work with Christopher Nolan. He is one of my favourite directors,” he said. The statement was met with enthusiastic applause from the audience.
Christopher Nolan is widely recognised for his complex storytelling and visually striking films. His body of work includes Memento (2000), The Dark Knight Trilogy (2005–2012), Inception (2010), Interstellar (2014), and most recently, Oppenheimer (2023), which earned him the Academy Award for Best Director and also won Best Picture.
Hrithik’s interest in working with Nolan comes at a time when Indian actors and filmmakers are increasingly gaining visibility on global platforms. The actor is already known internationally for his roles in films such as Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, Dhoom 2, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, and War. His fan base extends across various countries, and his appearance in the United States marked a return to international live events after nearly two decades.
The ongoing USA tour celebrates Hrithik’s two-and-a-half-decade-long career and includes a series of fan interactions and stage appearances. The Atlanta event was the first stop, with more locations expected in the coming weeks.
On the work front, Hrithik will next be seen in War 2, a key instalment in the expanding YRF Spy Universe. The film co-stars NTR Jr and Kiara Advani and is slated for release on August 14, 2025. Directed by Ayan Mukerji, the action film is expected to bring together major characters from the franchise in a high-stakes narrative. As Hrithik continues to explore new creative avenues, his statement has sparked interest about a possible future collaboration with filmmakers beyond Indian cinema.
At a recent public appearance, Hrithik Roshan made headlines when he named Jr NTR as his favourite co-star while speaking about their collaboration in the upcoming action thriller War 2. The actor praised Jr NTR for his performance and presence on set, adding to the growing anticipation surrounding the film, which is scheduled to release on August 14.
When asked about his favourite co-star during an interaction, Hrithik responded, “My favourite co-star is actually Jr. NTR. I just did War 2 with him — he’s amazing, he’s brilliant, and he’s such a fine teammate. I think we’ve done something really good, and I can’t wait for you all to watch it, WAR 2, 14th August!”
This statement has sparked interest among fans, as War 2 brings together two of Indian cinema’s most prominent names. The film marks Jr NTR’s debut in Hindi cinema and is an important installment in the expanding YRF Spy Universe, following titles like Pathaan, Ek Tha Tiger, and Tiger 3. Hrithik reprises his role as Agent Kabir, and the film also stars Kiara Advani as the female lead.
Jr NTR, who recently visited Japan to promote his upcoming Telugu film Devara, was seen interacting with international fans, including one who addressed him in Telugu and called him an inspiration. The actor’s growing popularity outside India further underlines his rising Pan-India and global appeal.
Directed by Ayan Mukerji, War 2 is expected to be a high-octane action thriller that not only builds upon the original War (2019) but also serves as a major step forward for the spy franchise. With Hrithik and Jr NTR sharing screen space for the first time, expectations are high for both their on-screen chemistry and the action set pieces.
The collaboration between the two stars, especially given Hrithik’s public admiration, adds another layer of excitement for audiences awaiting the film’s release. As August 14 approaches, fans are eager to see what this dynamic pairing will bring to one of the most anticipated action films of the year.
Actress Ameesha Patel shared her thoughts on the significant age gap between Salman Khan and Rashmika Mandanna in their film Sikandar. Speaking at an event in Mumbai, she was asked about the ongoing debate that arose during a recent press conference regarding their age difference.
In a conversation with IANS, When asked about Salman Khan romancing Rashmika Mandanna, who is 31 years younger than him in Sikandar, Ameesha Patel stated, “Mere aur Sunny ji mein bhi to 20 saal ka gap tha, par jab jodi chalti hai to chalti hai.” To recall, Ameesha has worked with Sunny Deol in Gadar: Ek Prem Katha and Gadar 2, both of which were box office hits. Notably, there is an 18-year age difference between them.
A few days ago, at the trailer launch event of Sikandar, Salman Khan addressed the significant age gap between senior actors and younger actresses in films. Speaking in his signature style, he remarked, “I have a 31-year age difference between me and the heroine. The heroine doesn’t have this problem. The heroine’s father doesn’t have this problem.” Next, he turned toward Rashmika and asked her, “You don’t have this problem, right?”
In Indian cinema, it’s common for older male actors to be paired with much younger heroines. Sikandar, directed by AR Murugadoss, followed this trend. The action thriller hit theaters on March 30 but received a mixed response. Despite the buzz, it struggled to leave a mark at the box office.
In Sikandar, Sanjay Sikandar Rajkot (Salman Khan), the king of Rajkot, becomes the target of Minister Rakesh Pradhan (Sathyaraj) after killing his son. When his wife’s donated organs save three lives, Rakesh seeks revenge, forcing Sanjay to protect them. The film also stars Rashmika Mandanna, Sathyaraj, Kajal Aggarwal, Sharman Joshi, Prateik Babbar, Kishore, Jatin Sarna, and Sanjay Kapoor, among others.
The highly anticipated trailer of Kesari Chapter 2: The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh is finally out, promising an epic historical drama filled with intense thrill and gripping storytelling. Starring Akshay Kumar, Ananya Panday, and R. Madhavan, the film is set to take audiences back in time, continuing the saga of bravery and patriotism.
Directed by Karan Singh Tyagi, Kesari Chapter 2 serves as a sequel to the 2019 hit Kesari, which depicted the heroic Battle of Saragarhi.
In Kesari 2, Akshay Kumar portrays Sir C Sankaran Nair, the fearless lawyer who waged an unprecedented legal battle against the British empire in the 1920s following the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Opposing him is R Madhavan, playing a lawyer defending the British, while Ananya Panday takes on the role of a trailblazing female lawyer challenging stereotypes. The trailer highlights the relentless struggle of Indians fighting against injustice while facing humiliation and oppression under colonial rule.
With a mix of action, patriotism, and compelling drama, Kesari Chapter 2 promises to be a visual spectacle. The background score, combined with the striking visuals, enhances the film’s appeal.
Kesari Chapter 2 was initially set to release on March 14, 2025. Directed by Karan Singh Tyagi, the film is based on the book ‘The Case That Shook the Empire’ by Raghu Palat and Pushpa Palat.
Renowned filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma, known for his impactful and unconventional films, recently appeared on Komal Nahta’s Game Changers podcast. He discussed his journey from engineering to filmmaking, his passion for experimenting with genres, and his approach of not relying on a bound script.
In an insightful conversation with Komal Nahta, when Ram Gopal Varma was asked about his spontaneity on the idea of making a film without a script in place. Varma said, “See, if you take the example of Satya, there was no script at all. I have some kind of guts, like- let’s start shooting, and we kept changing the scenes in between shoots,” Varma revealed. Emphasizing on why he doesn’t believe in writing a script, and improvising fresh ideas, he said, “Honestly, I don’t believe in the importance of a script.”
Commenting on his style of filmmaking, Ram Gopal Varma spoke about the risks and challenges one faces when he follows this style of filmmaking. The filmmaker said, “I’ll tell you something that could have gone very wrong in Satya, but it went right, that’s a different story. Kallu Mama holds a gun to Satya when Satya comes running away. I suddenly thought, and was thinking of killing the Chandrakant Mule, that’s Makarand Deshpande’s character. I called Makarand, “Makarand, where are you?” He said, “Sir, I’m at home.” So, I said, “Why don’t you come to the set? I’m thinking of killing your character in this scene.” So, he came, and the camera rolled, and the scene was shot.”
The director spoke about the downsides of his style of filmmaking. Working without a bound script can go wrong. The director cited an example of how Satya may have been a very different film if luck was not in his side. Ram Gopal Varma said, “If Makarand was on another shoot that day, it’s possible that I wouldn’t have been able to do that scene.”
Ram Gopal Varma’s episode on Komal Nahta’s Game Changers podcast is a masterclass in filmmaking. From script selection and new-age marketing to the differences between OTT and cinema, the filmmaker shares deep insights into the evolving industry.
With Game Changers, Komal Nahta is redefining the landscape of Indian cinema conversations. Tune in to the YouTube channel for Game Changers.
Actor Akshay Oberoi, known for his versatile performances, is set to make his Kannada film debut in the highly anticipated action-thriller Toxic, where he will share screen space with superstar Yash. To ensure an authentic portrayal, Akshay is undergoing intensive language training to master Kannada for his role.
The actor is working closely with language coaches provided by the production team, ensuring he not only perfects Kannada pronunciation but also delivers the required depth and emotion for his character. His commitment to learning the language reflects both his dedication to the craft and his respect for Kannada cinema.
Speaking about the experience, Akshay shared, “Stepping into a new industry and language is both exciting and challenging. For me, it’s not just about memorizing lines in Kannada but truly understanding the essence of the language and culture to bring authenticity to my character. The production team has been incredibly supportive, providing expert coaches to help me refine my pronunciation, diction, and emotional expressions. Yash has also been an inspiring co-star, and I’m thrilled to be part of such a grand cinematic project. I want to give this my best and make a genuine connection with the Kannada audience.”
With Toxic, Akshay Oberoi embarks on a new chapter in his career, immersing himself in a fresh cinematic landscape with determination. Fans eagerly await his debut in the Kannada film industry, as he takes on this challenging role with meticulous preparation.
Also starring Nayanthara in a key role, Toxic features an ensemble cast, including Kiara Advani, Huma Qureshi, and Tara Sutaria. The film is a period gangster drama written and directed by Geetu Mohandas. It is jointly produced by Venkat K. Narayana and Yash under their KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations banners.
Rashmika Mandanna, one of the leading actresses in Indian cinema, has started April on a celebratory note as she prepares for her birthday on April 5. Taking to her Instagram stories, she shared her excitement about turning 29 and reflected on the past year.
Sharing a picture of herself, Rashmika wrote, “It’s my birthdaaaaay monthhhhh and I am so excitedddddd.. I’ve always heard that the older you get.. you start loosing interest in celebrating your birthday.. but clearly it’s not the same in my case.. the older I am getting the more excited I am to celebrating my birthdaaaaaay!! I can’t believe I am already turning 29.. I made it one more year healthier and happier and safely! Now that’s worth celebrating!”
Rashmika has had a strong start to 2025 with a string of successful films. She began the year with Pushpa 2: The Rule, which released in December last year, followed by Chhaava. Her latest film, Sikandar, co-starring Salman Khan, released on Eid and has garnered her love from her fans. Considering how the actress has consistently delivered hits, she has now made her way to one of the most sought-after talents in the industry.
Apart from her professional success, Rashmika remains highly engaged with her fans on social media. She frequently shares glimpses of her work, personal milestones, and fitness routines, keeping her followers updated. Her birthday announcement has already generated buzz among her fan base, with many expressing their excitement and sending early wishes.
Looking ahead, Rashmika has a packed schedule with several upcoming projects across different film industries. She will be seen in Maddock Films’ Thama alongside Ayushmann Khurrana and Kubera with Dhanush. Other projects in her lineup include The Girlfriend, Rainbow, and the much-anticipated Pushpa 3. With such a diverse slate, 2025 is shaping up to be another significant year for the actress.
Ed Sheeran’s India tour has been full of memorable moments, but none quite as spontaneous and fun as a recent rickshaw ride he took in Hyderabad. On Monday, the British singer shared a video on his social media, capturing a delightful moment during his journey through the city.
In the video, Sheeran can be seen riding in a rickshaw when he plays his recent track ‘Azizam’ on the stereo. What followed was an unexpected yet joyous exchange—Rakesh, the rickshaw driver, started grooving to the beats of the song, giving fans an impromptu dance performance. Ed, not one to shy away from joining in, hopped over to the front seat, sat beside Rakesh, and continued to vibe with him. “I think he likes it. Let’s go,” Ed can be heard saying, with a wide smile as he shares the moment with his fans. He then turns to Rakesh, playfully urging him, “Give me the moves, man.”
Captioning the video, Ed wrote, “When I was touring India, I played Azizam to my taxi driver who was taking me around the city. He was a whole vibe, big up, Rakesh.” The video quickly went viral, and fans couldn’t get enough of the fun and cheerful exchange between the two.
However, what really caught the attention of many viewers wasn’t just the dance moves, but Rakesh’s striking resemblance to the internationally acclaimed filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli. Fans took to the comments section in a frenzy, expressing their surprise and amusement at the similarities between the two. Comments like “Who thought Rajamouli??”, “I thought he was Rajamouli,” and “Ye Rajamouli gaadi kyu chala rahe hai” (Why is Rajamouli driving the rickshaw?) flooded the post. One user even joked, “I initially thought that it was a collab between Rajamouli sir and Ed!”
The light-hearted moment between Ed Sheeran and Rakesh highlights the joy of connecting through music, as well as the magic of unplanned moments that make touring special. The internet’s fascination with Rakesh’s resemblance to Rajamouli only added to the charm of the video, making it one of the most talked-about posts on Sheeran’s social media.
JioHotstar is set to bring the sacred celebrations of Ram Navami to millions across India through a special livestream on April 6th, from 8 AM to 1 PM. The event will feature Padma Vibhushan Shri. Amitabh Bachchan narrating the Ram Katha, along with a range of rituals, aartis, and musical tributes honoring Lord Ram’s legacy.
The livestream, which will be broadcast live from Ayodhya, marks another milestone in JioHotstar’s commitment to making cultural and religious events more accessible to a wider audience. Following successful livestreams such as Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres concert and Mahashivratri: The Divine Night, JioHotstar aims to bring the traditional celebration of Ram Navami into homes across India.
The event will feature Shri. Amitabh Bachchan sharing stories from the Ram Katha, reflecting on Lord Ram’s values, and offering his perspective on the teachings of the Ramayana. He will also engage with children in an interactive session, making select stories and verses of the Ram Katha relatable and engaging for younger audiences. The livestream will also include sacred rituals from various temples, a special pooja from Ayodhya, and live aartis from locations including Bhadrachalam, Panchvati, Chitrakoot, and Ayodhya. Devotional bhajans and cultural performances will be showcased by renowned artists such as Kailash Kher and Malini Awasthi.
A JioHotstar spokesperson said, “Our live streaming capabilities have enabled us to bring culturally significant experiences to viewers across India. The success of past events, such as Coldplay – Live from Ahmedabad and the 14-hour Mahashivratri: The Divine Night livestream, has motivated us to push boundaries. Ram Navami is a deeply revered occasion, and we’re honored to share its sacred celebrations with millions across the nation. With Shri. Amitabh Bachchan narrating Lord Ram’s journey, this experience will bring profound emotions to this auspicious occasion.”
Shri. Amitabh Bachchan commented, “To be part of such a sacred occasion is an honor of a lifetime. Ram Navami is more than a festival—it is a time to embrace the ideals of dharma, devotion, and righteousness that Lord Ram personified. Through JioHotstar, we have the power of technology to unite hearts across the nation in a celebration of faith, culture, and spirituality.”
The Ram Navami livestream will be available exclusively on JioHotstar on April 6th, from 8 AM to 1 PM.
Rising star Shreya Gupto is poised to captivate audiences with her Bollywood debut in the highly anticipated film Sikandar, where she shares the screen with superstar Salman Khan. Directed by A.R. Murugadoss and set for release on March 30, 2025, this action-packed drama marks a pivotal moment in Shreya’s inspiring journey from humble beginnings to the glitz of Mumbai’s film industry. With a story rooted in grit and determination, Shreya’s ascent is one of talent, perseverance, and a dream nurtured since childhood.
From Film Sets to Stardom: Shreya’s Early Years
Born in Kolkata and raised in Chennai by a resilient single mother, Shreya Gupto’s tryst with acting began early. Frequently accompanying her mother to film sets, where her mother took on small roles to make ends meet, Shreya found herself drawn to the spotlight. Her first big break came as a child artist in Gautham Vasudev Menon’s Varanam Aayiram, playing Suriya’s sister. This role ignited a passion that would define her life.
Throughout her formative years, Shreya honed her craft in films like Chanakya, JK Enum Nanbanin Vaazhkai, and Pallikoodam, where she even lent her voice as a singer. Despite these achievements, the unpredictability of an acting career loomed large—until she took a leap of faith. With just Rs 25,000 in her pocket, Shreya moved to Mumbai, determined to turn her dreams into reality.
A Key Role in Sikandar: Bringing Depth to the Screen
In Sikandar, Shreya plays a medical student intern, a character integral to the film’s narrative. “My character, along with fellow interns, assists Sikandar—played by Salman sir—on his mission in Dharavi,” she revealed in an exclusive interview. “It’s a journey that unfolds with such grandeur on screen.” The film, produced by Sajid Nadiadwala, promises a blend of high-octane action and emotional resonance, with Shreya’s role adding a fresh dimension to the story.
Her excitement about the project is palpable. “Being part of a Nadiadwala production with Salman sir and Murugadoss sir feels larger than life,” she said. This role not only showcases her acting prowess but also cements her place in Bollywood’s competitive landscape.
Working with Salman Khan: A Dream Come True
For Shreya, sharing the screen with Salman Khan was nothing short of surreal. “Growing up watching his films, I was starstruck,” she admitted. Yet, Salman’s approachable nature quickly put her at ease. “He’s so collaborative. I even got to translate some Tamil lines for our scenes, which made it an enriching experience.” Shreya also witnessed Salman’s legendary generosity firsthand. During a mall scene shoot, after a grueling month on set, the child actors erupted in excitement. “Salman sir told them to shop for whatever they wanted—bikes, skateboards, you name it,” she recalled. “The energy that day was beautiful. He’s genuinely kind.” His spontaneous improvisations further elevated their scenes, offering Shreya invaluable lessons in adaptability and presence.
Under A.R. Murugadoss’ Guidance: A Creative Collaboration
Shreya’s collaboration with director A.R. Murugadoss began with Rajinikanth’s Darbar, where she first caught his eye. Reuniting for Sikandar, she credits him for shaping her performance. “Murugadoss sir gave me a role that’s key to Sikandar’s journey,” she said. “He balances creative freedom with precise direction, whether it’s a musical number or an intense sequence.”
Working under Murugadoss’ visionary leadership, alongside Salman Khan, transformed the experience into a masterclass in filmmaking. “It’s been an unforgettable journey of learning and growth,” Shreya added, expressing gratitude for the opportunity.
A Packed Portfolio and Future Projects
Before Sikandar, Shreya built an impressive resume. Landing four ads in her first month in Mumbai, she went on to star in over 250 YouTube videos with platforms like TVF and FilterCopy, 150 television commercials, a Balaji Telefilms serial, and web shows like Hansal Mehta’s Scoop. Her next venture? A show directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sudhir Mishra, set to release later in 2025. As the sole breadwinner for her family, Shreya’s drive is fueled by both passion and responsibility. “Landing substantial roles has always been a challenge,” she reflected. “Sikandar is a milestone I’m deeply grateful for.”
At 51, superstar Hrithik Roshan turns director with Krrish 4, a film that was born out of the vision of his celebrated actor-turned-director dad, Rakesh Roshan—and him. The franchise began with Koi…Mil Gaya 22 years ago, and as the obvious (true) sequel was Krrish (2006), the next was named Krrish 3 as it was the third in the series.
As Rakesh Roshan put it, his son was involved creatively right from the beginning, and knows best how to take the series forward, keeping in mind the present and upcoming generations. Rakesh himself, interestingly, had found a sparkling new ‘direction’ in life after a not-very-fulfilling journey as actor with his maiden film, Khudgarz, which he directed at the comparatively young age of 38, following an acting career that was just 16 years old then. Hrithik, who began as a child artiste at the age of six, began his innings as hero at the age of 26 and has a total screen experience of 45 years!!
But has age got to do with it all? As trade analyst Taran Adarsh puts it, “Stars can turn directors anytime! They have all been actively involved with their directors and have observed everything while working. And we have seen how Raj Kapoor and Manoj Kumar, like Rakesh, have become even more successful as directors. Hrithik has been assisting Rakesh Roshan in several of his directorials. Even Ranbir Kapoor started out assisting dad Rishi Kapoor on Aa Ab Laut Chalen besides Sanjay Leela Bhansali on Black. They thus become technically sound, and want to be storytellers when they feel the urge.”
Concurs trade analyst Komal Nahta, “Actors get involved in their films. And when they feel they are capable of going in a new direction and feel that creative spark, they go ahead! I think that Hrithik too is going to make a solid blockbuster with everything right going for him!”
“It’s all about what excites you!” Taran goes on. “When you feel that you can do a great job, you move to a new direction!”
Sunny Deol (who, however, has not given a hit) and Ajay Devgn are other recent stars who have liked to take charge. Ajay began with the almost-niche U Me Aur Hum and even directed the stylized actioner, Shivaay, in which he even coordinated the action and VFX. His next of two more, Runway, was received very well when it was released on OTT after a disappointing theatrical run.
Diverse motivations
Shashi Kapoor took over the direction of his production, Ajooba, as Raj Kapoor could not accept the film for health reasons. His brother Shammi Kapoor, on the other hand, wanted to turn director after he had gained excessive weight and had related health issues and saw an ebb in his career as hero. However, his films Manoranjan and Bundelbaaz were non-successes.
The eldest brother Raj Kapoor became an institution with his second directorial, Barsaat (1949), though his debut directorial, Aag (1948) was also born out of a passion for narrating a story on his own steam. He first had the idea for the semi-autobiographical film in Nagpur where he was performing a play for his father’s company, Prithvi Threatres, and came back to Mumbai and hired a professional writer, Inder Raj Anand.
Each of his sons followed in this ‘direction’. The eldest, Randhir Kapoor, even made a unique double-debut with Kal Aaj Aur Kal in 1971. Rishi Kapoor went on to direct the last film from the banner, Aa Ab Laut Chalen in 1999, while in-between, the youngest son directed Prem Granth. Of the three, it was Randhir who had a modicum of success with Dharam Karam and a mega-hit with Henna, a film that his father was to originally direct.
Each case, as we see, is thus different, time and age-wise, and more. Aamir Khan directed Taare Zameen Par brilliantly after signing Amole Gupte to write and direct his film. The actor sensed that his director did not have the sensibility he had hoped, and took over the reins within a week. Hema Malini had major creative differences with Mayur Puri, who was assigned Tell Me O Kkhuda to relaunch Esha Deol. She took over the directorial mantle, but could not succeed. Hema, until then, had already directed Dil Aashna Hai and the telefilm Mohini.
Female of the species
A female star-director, however, has yet to succeed in our cinema. Simi Garewal directed Rukhsat, and Revathy did Mitr-My Friend and Phir Milenge. Asha Parekh, who was originally offered Bhairavi (1996), left the film and directed only a couple of TV serials. Kajol’s grandmother, Shobhana Samarth, had directed two Hindi films between 1950 and 1960 that were also flops.
The discrepancy in quantity, feels Nahta, is because the director’s gender ratio is anyway lopsided. But Adarsh feels that there is no explanation really for this as the number of female star directors are disproportionately low anyway.
It is also known that the modestly successful Geetaa Mera Naam (1974) was ghost-directed by R.K. Nayyar though actress Sadhana was credited with its direction.
When the spark flew
The directorial urge hit stars at varied points of age and commercial status. Dev Anand’s Prem Pujari released in 1970, 24 years after his acting debut, but his only success as a director remains Des Pardes (1978). Manoj Kumar, on the other hand, hit gold with Upkar (1967) and was soon called the director with the Midas touch through cult follow-ups like Purab Aur Pachhim, Shor, Roti Kapada Aur Makaan and Kranti before losing form.
Sunil Dutt, nine years after his acting debut, wielded the megaphone for his experimental one-actor film, Yaadein (1964). He next took on Reshma Aur Shera only after differences cropped up with the original director, S. Sukhdev, who had directed his hit production, Mujhe Jeene Do.
Kishore Kumar, who made his lead debut in 1948 with Sati Vijay, decided on turning director with Door Gagan Ki Chhaon Mein, a passion project 16 years later.
Feroz Khan, ever stylish in personal life, gave his movies a polished, Western sheen with his first four directorials—Apradh, Dharmatma, Qurbani and Janbaaz. His brother, Sanjay Khan, directed Chandi Sona, a flop, and Abdullah and Kala Dhanda Goray Log (both successes) before switching to TV and making popular serials, earning a reputation for making historical and (Hindu) mythological serials.
Joy Mukerji also directed three films, starting out (eight years after his first film as a hero) with his double-role in Humsaya, but ironically succeeded only with the Rajesh Khanna starrer, Chhaila Babu in 1977 when he had quit acting!
Premnath (Prisoner of Golconda, Samundar), Biswajeet (Kehtey Hain Mujhko Raja), Dara Singh (eight movies beginning with the cult Punjabi movie, Nanak Dukhiya Sab Sansar), Vinod Mehra (his maiden attempt, Guru-Dev was completed by Raj N. Sippy after his death), Amol Palekar (21 films and serials in Hindi and Marathi beginning 7 years after his screen debut), Nana Patekar (Prahaar), Naseeruddin Shah (Yun Hota To Kya Hota…What If?) are the others who captained films.
But our character actors were no less. Bhagwan has directed 35 films! And Asrani, Mehmood, I.S. Johar, Johnny Walker, Amjad Khan and Danny Denzongpa have all taken up the challenge at least once.
The last word
Dilip Kumar, the actor with a reputation to ghost-direct or interfere in many films, was unlucky in his official directorial debut, Kalinga, which remains, as per buzz, incomplete. And not many are aware that Amitabh Bachchan was supposed to direct a film called Kaayar in the late 1970s, with Prakash Mehra as one of the producers, and (in those solo composer times!!) Kalyanji-Anandji and Bappi Lahiri jointly scoring the music!
Salman Khan and Rashmika Mandanna’s Eid 2025 offing, Sikandar, is seeing a slower-than-expected response in advance bookings. As of data received at 3 PM, Sikandar has sold 1.07 lakh tickets across the Top 3 national chains – PVRInox and Cinepolis – and is looking towards a final advance booking in the range of 1.75 lakh tickets.
With this range of advance booking, Sikandar is looking at first-day business in the range of Rs. 30 crore to Rs. 32 crore, which is not up to the mark, given the high standards set by Salman Khan over the years. The film is riding on the shoulders of Salman Khan, as nothing barring his presence is creating conversations for Sikandar.
The pre-sales are better in single screens than the multiplexes, but that’s also due to the genre, which has a very non-multiplex film, appealing mainly to the mass audience. The first 3 days of the film have to be strong and hit the Rs. 100 crore mark, as it is a frontloaded film, warranting a frontloaded start.
Bollywood heartthrob Kartik Aaryan has set social media ablaze with his latest Instagram post, giving fans a glimpse into the sets of his upcoming film with director Anurag Basu. The romantic drama features Kartik alongside South Indian sensation Sreeleela, and their on-screen chemistry is already winning hearts. The post, captioned “Tu Meri Zindagi Hai,” shows the duo sharing a tender moment amidst the lush tea gardens of North Bengal, where the film is currently being shot.
A Romantic Moment in North Bengal’s Tea Garden
The viral Instagram image captures Kartik and Sreeleela in a picturesque setting, surrounded by the verdant tea gardens of North Bengal. Kartik, dressed in a cozy red and pink striped sweater, gazes affectionately at Sreeleela, who looks ethereal in a peach dress with her hair tied back in a ponytail. The serene backdrop of tea plantations and a lone tree under a clear sky adds a dreamy vibe to the scene. The duo is seen holding cups, enjoying a chai break, with their hands gently touching.
Since Wednesday, behind-the-scenes (BTS) pictures from the shoot have been circulating widely on social media, with fans gushing over the fresh pairing. The North Bengal location, particularly the tea gardens around Siliguri, has become a focal point of the shoot, offering a visually stunning canvas for Anurag Basu’s signature storytelling style.
Kartik Aaryan and Sreeleela’s Viral Bike Moment
Another image that has grabbed everyone’s attention is a BTS shot of Kartik riding a bike with Sreeleela seated behind him, her arms wrapped around his waist. The photo, which surfaced on social media, has sparked curiosity among fans, especially because Kartik’s left hand is wrapped in a bandage. This detail has led to speculation about the film’s plot—could Kartik’s character be involved in intense action sequences or a dramatic storyline? Given Anurag Basu’s penchant for layered narratives, the bandage might hint at a pivotal moment in the story, blending romance with high-stakes drama.
Bollywood fans are buzzing with excitement as fresh reports suggest a major casting shake-up for the much-anticipated sequel, Pati Patni Aur Woh 2. According to a recent Mid-Day report, newcomer Rasha Thadani is poised to replace Telugu star Sreeleela in the romantic comedy starring Kartik Aaryan and Bhumi Pednekar. This development promises a new on-screen pairing that could set the box office ablaze.
A Fresh Face for a Fresh Jodi
The makers of Pati Patni Aur Woh 2 are reportedly eager to introduce a novel pairing to captivate audiences. While Sreeleela was initially a top contender for the role, her ongoing collaboration with Kartik Aaryan in Anurag Basu’s yet-untitled love story has prompted a rethink. “Sreeleela and Kartik are already working together in Anurag’s film. The team of Pati Patni Aur Woh 2 feels a new jodi will attract attention,” a source revealed to Mid-Day. Enter Rasha Thadani, who debuted earlier this year in Azaad and is now in the spotlight for this high-profile project.
Rasha, daughter of Raveena Tandon, made her Bollywood entry in January 2025 with Azaad. Despite the film’s underwhelming performance, her song ‘Uyi Amma’ garnered significant attention, showcasing her potential as a fresh face in the industry. The Pati Patni Aur Woh 2 team sees her as a perfect fit to complete the love triangle alongside Kartik Aaryan and Bhumi Pednekar, with director Mudassar Aziz set to finalize the decision after conducting look tests.
From Sreeleela to Rasha: What Changed?
Since last year, rumors swirled that Sreeleela, a popular name in Telugu and Kannada cinema, would join Kartik and Bhumi in Pati Patni Aur Woh 2. The actress, who is making her Bollywood debut with Basu’s love story currently being filmed in Siliguri, seemed like a natural choice. Her potential casting in the sequel would have marked her second collaboration with Aaryan, fueling speculation about their on-screen chemistry. However, the latest reports speculate that the makers are shifting gears, opting for Rasha Thadani to bring a fresh dynamic to the comedy.
The original Pati Patni Aur Woh (2019), directed by Mudassar Aziz, was a hit, featuring Kartik Aaryan, Bhumi Pednekar, and Ananya Panday in a hilarious love triangle. The sequel aims to build on that success, and the decision to cast Rasha could be a strategic move to keep audiences intrigued.
What’s Next for Pati Patni Aur Woh 2?
Kartik Aaryan, riding high on the success of recent projects, is currently juggling multiple films. The shooting for Pati Patni Aur Woh 2 is expected to kick off once he wraps up Anurag Basu’s love story. Bhumi Pednekar, who impressed as the fiery wife in the 2019 film, will reprise her role, adding continuity to the franchise. With Rasha Thadani potentially stepping into the mix, fans are eager to see how this new trio will spice up the comedy.
Stay tuned for more updates on Pati Patni Aur Woh 2 as the team finalizes its cast and gears up for production.
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