On Sunday, April 20, girl group XG took the stage for Week 2 of Coachella 2025, one of the largest music festivals in the United States.
In Week 1, held on April 13, XG closed out Coachella’s largest indoor stage, the Sahara Stage, delivering a powerful performance. The hashtag #XGCHELLA – a mashup of ‘XG’ and ‘Coachella’—trended at #5 worldwide, and hit the top 5 trends in 11 countries and regions, including #2 in the United States.
For Week 2, the group returned with a different concept – trading their Week 1 white outfits for all-red ensembles, including COCONA’s bold buzz cut. Starting with ‘HESONOO + X-GENE’ and transitioning into their all-rap track ‘WOKE UP,’ the energy hit full throttle with ‘GRL GVNG,’ the single that made them the first Japanese artist to hit #1 on the U.S. Billboard ‘Hot Trending Songs Powered by Twitter’ chart.
CHISA hyped the crowd with, “What’s up Coachella!! You ready for Week 2?”, followed by MAYA, “Wow, being here right now feels so surreal. We love you Coachella! Let’s get crazy tonight!”
In their dance break ‘SHINOBI,’ 17 performers—including masked members and dancers—delivered a synchronized routine inspired by the Japanese concept of shinobi (stealth). For fan-favorite ‘LEFT RIGHT,’ the crowd joined in along to the beat.
The group continued with ‘TGIF’ and ‘PUPPET SHOW,’ followed by the Coachella debut of their second single ‘MASCARA.’ JURIN rallied the audience with, “All right Coachella! This is our part!!”
Their track ‘IS THIS LOVE,’ featured in Shiseido ANESSA’s global campaign, was performed in a special arrangement that transitioned from a soft piano version into the original. The set continued with ‘NEW DANCE’ and ‘SOMETHING AIN’T RIGHT,’ and closed with a band arrangement of ‘SHOOTING STAR’.
As the final act of Coachella 2025, which spanned six days over two weekends, XG delivered an unforgettable finale.
Following their performance, #XG_COACHELLA climbed to #2 on worldwide trends on X (formerly Twitter).
XG is currently on their first world tour, “XG 1st WORLD TOUR ‘The first HOWL’”, performing 47 shows across 35 cities in 18 countries and regions. This week, they’ll perform in São Paulo on April 24 and Mexico City on April 27, leading up to the tour’s grand finale at Tokyo Dome on May 14 – where they will also release their latest single, ‘MILLION PLACES.’
Rahul Bhatt, known more for his work in fitness, recently made headlines after his candid remarks about his famous siblings in an interview with Hindi Rush. In a no-holds-barred chat, the fitness enthusiast opened up about his admiration for sister Pooja Bhatt while drawing a sharp comparison with his half-sister, actor Alia Bhatt.
Speaking with visible affection and pride, Rahul described Pooja Bhatt as “the true inheritor to take the legacy of my father ahead,” referring to filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt. “I saw her in her stardom. She was the biggest sex symbol of the country at that time,” he said, reminiscing about her popularity in the 90s. While acknowledging Alia Bhatt’s fame and success, Rahul didn’t mince words and shared his thoughts with much candour as he stated, “In my opinion, she is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is—not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (not as good). This is my personal opinion,” he asserted.
The contrast he drew wasn’t just limited to fame. Rahul Bhatt emphasized Pooja’s depth and values, calling her “the most talented, the most moralistic” among all of Mahesh Bhatt’s children. “She has everything, and when you have everything, the universe conspires, and the rest is history,” he added poetically.
While his opinions on Alia might come across as controversial, Rahul maintained a tone of civility when talking about her personal life. “She is a good mother, and she is taking care of my other stepsister, Shaheen Bhatt, very well, which I respect more,” he noted. He also expressed appreciation for Alia’s husband, actor Ranbir Kapoor, saying he respects the way they’re handling their personal lives.
Touching on his distant equation with Alia, Rahul added, “She is a mother now. She is very successful, and one can’t just pick up the phone and say ‘I am coming to meet you’. I never shared that with anybody. I like to maintain a certain protocol.”
Rahul Bhatt, who has largely stayed away from the industry spotlight unlike his siblings, has once again proven that he isn’t afraid to speak his truth – even when it involves Bollywood’s biggest names in his own family.
Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has issued a fresh apology to the Brahmin community after facing backlash for his controversial remarks in a social media exchange. The Gangs of Wasseypur director, who earlier stirred controversy with his “will urinate on Brahmins” comment while reacting to a user’s post, has now shared a heartfelt apology in Hindi on the X platform, acknowledging his mistake and expressing regret for hurting sentiments.
In his latest post, Kashyap admits to losing his composure while responding to a provocative comment and acknowledges that in his anger, he made an inappropriate generalization about an entire community. He also noted the important role that members of the Brahmin community have played in his personal and professional life, adding that his own family has been hurt by his actions.
Here is the English translation of Kashyap’s new statement – “In anger, I lost my composure while responding to someone and ended up insulting the entire Brahmin community. This is the same community whose many members have been part of my life, and continue to be, and contribute significantly. Today, all of them are hurt by me. My family is hurt. Many intellectuals whom I respect deeply are hurt by my words and tone. I ended up derailing the entire conversation because of my own mistake. I sincerely apologize to the community—I never intended to say what I did, but while replying to a disgusting comment in a fit of rage, I ended up writing that. I apologize to all my friends, colleagues, my family, and the community, for my choice of words and the offensive language used. Going forward, I will work on this. I will work on controlling my anger. If I need to raise a point, I will do so using the right words. I hope you all will forgive me.”
This comes after an earlier note by Kashyap, where he had clarified that he stood by the essence of his statement but regretted how one line was taken out of context. That note had not calmed tempers, as several Brahmin organizations expressed outrage and demanded strict action. One such group even announced a reward of Rs. 1 lakh for anyone who would blacken the filmmaker’s face.
With the backlash intensifying over the past few days, Kashyap’s latest post appears to be an attempt to bring the conversation back to a more respectful tone and take responsibility for his words. The filmmaker also assured that he would make conscious efforts to manage his anger better and express his opinions in a more mindful way moving forward.
Huma Qureshi is currently filming the fourth season of Maharani, and her wardrobe is generating just as much buzz as the storyline. The actor wears nearly 150 sarees across the season, each selected to reflect the evolving journey of her character, Rani Bharti — a woman navigating the complex world of politics while redefining her identity.
The extensive costume design is not just for aesthetics, but it is also expected to be tied closely to the narrative. Rani’s wardrobe will be seen transitioning from modest handlooms to bold silks, symbolizing her growing command and confidence. The visual storytelling aims to capture her shift from a reluctant political figure to a woman who now understands and owns her power.
A source close to the production shared, “The costume team sourced sarees from different parts of India to reflect the texture of Rani’s journey. Huma was involved in fittings, fabrics, even blouse cuts, she wanted every look to feel rooted and real.” This season leans heavily into symbolic elements, with the costumes helping convey Rani’s psychological and political transformation. “It’s a show of range, a shift in power, in confidence and how Rani sees herself,” the source added.
In earlier seasons, Rani’s simplicity was central to her identity. But now, her appearance will reflect a deeper understanding of how appearances shape perceptions — especially in the world of politics. Qureshi’s portrayal brings quiet authority to the screen, and her wardrobe will underscore that progression.
Beyond Maharani, Huma Qureshi is balancing a busy filming calendar. She recently completed work on Delhi Crime Season 3 and is currently shooting Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups, directed by Geetu Mohandas and co-starring Yash. She will also be seen in Jolly LLB 3, where she reprises her role in the courtroom drama franchise. Her upcoming projects also include Bayaan and Gulabi.
With these projects already in the pipeline, Huma Qureshi aims to take on more projects that push boundaries.
Amit Sharma – Managing Director, Miraj Cinemas, Devang Sampat – Managing Director (India), Cinepolis and Vishek Chauhan – CEO, Roopbani Cinema came together and raised some valid points in the third episode of The Filmy Hustle, hosted by distributor-exhibitor Akshaye Rathi. As expected, the talk veered towards the F&B (food and beverages), particularly the high price of popcorn.
Devang Sampat said, “It (High F&B price point) pinches the customer more than the ticket price. It is a chosen strategy. We have not increased the ticket price; we want people to come in. To cover up the costs, we need to do that through F&B. One might argue, ‘Popcorn toh bahar Rs. 50 ka milta hai aur aapke yahaan Rs. 500 ka milta hai’. It is expensive not because we are making money. All of us exhibitors are generating only some margin, and that margin is invested back into the business for expansion. If we don’t expand at this stage, it won’t work for us well. Producers are appreciating this aspect. Even the public appreciates the fact that they can now watch films in places (where there was a dearth of options).”
Vishek Chauhan added, “When the audience says that the ticket price is too high, I don’t think so. None of the cinemas is killing it. We are not buying islands, are we? We are trying to balance the input costs and the audience expectations.”
He added, “Someone told me that airline prices have either been constant or gone down, leading to a massive increase in the air traffic. Mobile data cost is also among the cheapest in the world. I agree with both these aspects. But the input cost for theatres is what increases the price. The rent we are paying is more than what it is in New York City and London. The cost of operating a cinema in the interiors of the USA will be much less than what we are operating here. If we don’t make money, how do we ensure the upkeep of our cinemas?”
Pooja Hegde is all set to appear alongside Suriya in the upcoming film Retro, directed by Karthik Subbaraj and slated for release on May 1, 2025. Ahead of the premiere, she shared a video offering a sneak peek of her character, Rukmini. Fans are loving her look and have been showering her with compliments, calling her beautiful.
Pooja Hegde took to Instagram to share a video where she is seen dressed in a saree, portraying a married woman. She looked stunning in the traditional attire, and captioned the post, “Yours truly, Rukmini.”
Fans flooded the comments section with praise, calling her “gorgeous” and “beautiful as always.” Meanwhile, the trailer of Retro has created a buzz among fans. In the film, Suriya portrays a local gangster who, despite vowing to leave his violent past behind for his ladylove—played by Pooja Hegde—finds himself back in action, fighting off goons.
In a touching scene, Suriya’s character reflects, “Our separated lives over the past years almost changed her into a Buddha, and me into a demon.” As he struggles with the forces pulling him back into a life of violence, Suriya delivers a gripping performance that adds depth to his gangster persona, making Retro a captivating film. The movie is co-produced by Suriya and Jyotika under their banner, 2D Entertainment, marking another professional collaboration between the real-life couple.
Meanwhile, Pooja Hegde and Varun Dhawan are currently filming David Dhawan’s upcoming project Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, a comedy packed with music and chaos. The shoot is already more than halfway complete. According to sources, the team is now preparing for a major international schedule in Scotland starting April 22. The next phase will be a month-long stretch filled with comic scenes, action-packed chases, and two lively song sequences. A source told Pinkvilla that the schedule is crafted to bring out the signature style of a David Dhawan entertainer, combining humour, romance, and energetic dance numbers.
Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai features a star-studded ensemble alongside Pooja Hegde and Varun Dhawan, with Maniesh Paul, Jimmy Shergill, Mouni Roy, Chunkey Panday, Rakesh Bedi, and Ali Asgar joining the fun. According to a source, several combination scenes involving the full cast will be shot in Scotland, bringing in the trademark chaos and confusion of a classic David Dhawan comedy. The Scotland schedule will take the film close to completion, with just a couple of songs and some patchwork shoots remaining afterward.
Kapil Sharma has been building anticipation for his upcoming film Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2 by consistently teasing fans with wedding-themed posters. Today, he dropped yet another poster—this time featuring a white wedding—hinting at more mayhem ahead. The poster quickly went viral, sparking reactions from fans online. Directed by Anukalp Goswami, the film is produced by Ratan Jain, Ganesh Jain, and Abbas-Mustan under the banner of Venus Worldwide Entertainment, in collaboration with Abbas Mustan Film Production.
Kapil Sharma took to Instagram to share a new poster while wishing fans a Happy Easter. In this fourth reveal, he surprised everyone by appearing suited up for a traditional Christian wedding, accompanied by a mysterious bride. He captioned, “Wishing you a blessed and joyful Easter!!! #KKPK2.”
Sporting a sharp tuxedo, Kapil adds a fresh twist to the ongoing comedy of errors that has fans buzzing with excitement. From traditional pheras to wedding vows, it looks like no wedding style is spared in his chaotic romantic journey. Each poster introduces a new bride and a fresh dilemma, promising yet another laugh-out-loud ride this year.
The film is shaping up to be the ultimate wedding comedy, with Kapil Sharma’s character caught in a multicultural marriage muddle. Featuring Kapil Sharma and Manjot Singh, the sequel brings back the beloved mix of humor, confusion, and chaos that made the original a hit among fans. Excitement is high, with one fan commenting, “Waiting eagerly to see myself in this movie,” while another wrote, “Kapil Sharma Sir – Legend, Comedy King, and Bollywood Superstar back with a super movie Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2.”
In an earlier exclusive interview with News18, Kapil Sharma shared that following the release of Zwigato, he was flooded with film offers—most of which required him to take on serious roles. Reflecting on the experience, he said, “After the trailer of Zwigato came out, I was offered nine films. And all of them were in the serious genre. But it was clear that many of those writers weren’t serious about their own work (laughs).”
When asked why he hasn’t taken up more Hindi film roles, Kapil Sharma responded with honesty, saying, “I’m grateful to God for allowing me to do good work and earn well while staying in my comfort zone. But if I have to step out of that and work under the blazing sun, the script needs to be strong enough to make it worthwhile.” The 41-year-old comedian added, “I only want to do films that truly touch my heart. That has always been a priority for me, and it always will be. I don’t want to do films just for the sake of money. I’ve earned enough. I’m very rich.”
Emerging star Ibrahim Ali Khan, who has been steadily garnering attention for his natural charm and poised public appearances, recently offered a rare glimpse into his personal life. In a brief yet heartfelt statement, Ibrahim spoke about his bond with his mother, veteran actress Amrita Singh. Amrita, known for her powerful performances in films like Betaab, Aaina, and 2 States, has always been a strong presence both on screen and in her children’s lives. Despite maintaining a relatively private profile in recent years, Singh’s role in shaping Ibrahim’s upbringing is evident in his respectful demeanor and balanced approach to fame.
The newbie actor said, “She pampers me. She praises me. She humbles me. She does everything.” The candid words shed light on the grounded relationship the two share. Ibrahim, the son of Amrita Singh and actor Saif Ali Khan, has already become a media favourite for his striking features, refined sense of style, and effortless Nawabi grace—a trait he seems to have inherited from both sides of his illustrious family. While he tends to keep a low profile, his every public appearance quickly grabs attention, often sparking conversation about his potential in the industry.
He recently made his acting debut with Nadaaniyan, opposite Khushi Kapoor. The film, which premiered on Netflix on March 7, marked his official entry into the world of cinema. Up next, he will be seen in Sarzameen, co-starring Kajol, further establishing his presence in the industry.
While Ibrahim continues to build his career one step at a time, his recent comment about his mother reflects the values he carries forward from home. Balancing admiration with humility, his words capture not just a son’s affection but also a young actor’s awareness of the roots that keep him grounded. As he navigates the early stages of his career under the spotlight, it is evident that Ibrahim Ali Khan’s journey will be marked not just by lineage or looks, but by a genuine spirit shaped in no small part by his bond with a mother who “does everything.”
Filmmaker Vishal Furia’s recently released horror movie Chhorii 2 stars Nushrratt Bharuccha in the lead. But the movie also sees Soha Ali Khan play a prominent role. She speaks to us about her experience of doing the movie and more.
What brings you back to the screen?
What brings me back to the screen is just the idea of being presented in such a wonderful way as Daasi Ma in this character. To play an antagonist in horror is not something I’ve done before. And I thought, it would be a very nice challenge for me to step out of my comfort zone, to wear completely new costumes, lenses, VFX, prosthetics, a different style of walking, a different way of talking with some investment into diction classes and working on an accent, smoking a hookah, doing all kinds of things that are way outside of my comfort level. And I thought also to be a part of a horror movie because I have enjoyed watching horrors, but I’ve never actually been in one. I thought that was interesting and that’s why I wanted to play the role of Daasi Ma.
Now that your daughter is somewhat older, do you have the time and inclination to resume your acting career?
Yes, I definitely have the time. I think I always had the time. I just didn’t want to make the time because I found it very, very challenging to step away from her and I wanted to be there for so many important milestones that happen in the first few years of your child growing up. And I really wanted to be present for her and to watch her and to be involved in raising her. Now she’s seven and she is in school for most of the day. She has an active social life and I, it’s never as if she really needed me. I needed her and now I think that I’m comfortable stepping away from her a little bit and definitely taking on more work.
What attracted you to this project? Horror is a completely new genre for you. Was it tough to be scary? Do you enjoy watching horror films?
I do enjoy watching horror films, but I feel like the older I get and certainly after becoming a parent, my appetite to consume horror has gone down and I feel very sensitive, especially to the sound in a horror film. I feel like it makes me very uncomfortable, but I still do enjoy it. I guess it’s like any kind of adrenaline rush. I don’t really enjoy roller coasters, but I still sometimes make myself do it because there’s some kind of high you get out of it. So, I do enjoy the sensation of the anticipation of fear or something going, you know, that might happen.
I have seen lots of horrors, whether it’s in sort of Western cinema from, you know, Psycho, The Shining, classics, Stephen King novels that have been turned into films. Things like Insidious or Conjuring or The Exorcism of Emily Rose or The Exorcist, of course, which also was a book. And also within Hindi cinema, some of my favourites have been 100 Days, which is one of the first horror films I saw from Hindi cinema, and then Bhoot by Ram Gopal Verma, Darna Mana Hai, you know, these are some of my favourites. But I’m glad to see that horror is making a comeback now in terms of pure horror and not a mixed genre.
Was it tough to be scary?
I think, no, not really. I think all of us have a darker side to our personality and I enjoyed exploring that. I think that what happens with horror is that you get so much support from sound, costume, cinematography, lighting. It all comes together. Of course, the script. What was difficult for me, I think, were things like the diction and the body mannerisms because she’s sort of rougher than I am, Daasi Ma. Her moral fabric is completely alien to me, what drives her. So, to be convinced or to be empathetic towards this character was a challenge for me.
But being scary was not so much because, honestly, I think I just put myself in my director’s hands. He had a particular vision of what this character looked like and what he told me to do with my face in terms of even contorting my face or doing things, I did. And, you know, the rest was a lot of teamwork from makeup, costume, the effects.
Should we consider this as a new beginning for you with other projects coming up?
I don’t know if you should consider it a new beginning. I mean, I did two shows after becoming a parent. I don’t think it’s a new beginning. I really feel like my work has always been a part of my life. My career has been a part of my life, not my entire life. And just because I’m not so visible on screen, I don’t think it means you’ve gone away. You’re just doing something else. I know that it’s been seven years since I did a movie, like a film. So in that sense, I suppose I did go away and now I’m coming back. But I did do two shows in the interim, which were Hush Hush and Kaun Banegi Shikharwati. And I have done another film. The production shoot part of that is complete and it should release later this year. And I hope to do much more.
As a woman, is it tough for you to balance your responsibilities as a homemaker with your career, and do you feel you can pull it off?
I think women are good at multitasking. We have to play many roles and wear many hats, whether it’s daughters, mothers, siblings, daughters-in-law, professionals, homemakers, you know, there’s a lot going on all the time and I think that we are generally able to multitask and also what we do need to learn to do more is delegate. I certainly am one of those women who likes to be everywhere at one time and, you know, make everyone happy and I find that that is impossible to do.
So, it is important to have a supportive community around you, to delegate to family, friends, professionals like my nanny who is so intrinsic to me achieving my dreams because she looks after my child when I can’t be there. So I think there is a support system out there for you, ideally. We should lean on that when we can because it is impossible to be everywhere at once and do everything perfectly. So I think women generally need to be not so hard on themselves and we don’t always have to be perfectionists. I think the idea is, especially if we have to be in the workplace, the idea is to delegate and to rely on so many other people who can be there to help you in the home.
Recently there was an awful incident in your brother Saif’s life. What has that told you about the safety of the family, and how celebrities could avoid being easy targets?
Alert toh hum hai hi, kabhi kabhi aisi cheezain ho jaati hai which are very unfortunate and I think now the sense of feeling is very blessed, ki aur bura nahin hua, joh hua uss hadd tak hi hua, and then everyone is fine.
After collecting Rs. 6 crores on Tuesday, Jaat saw a drop in Wednesday as Rs. 4.05 crores came in. Of course, there were partial holidays before that and then reduced ticket prices also came into play. Still, had Wednesday collections been closer to Rs. 5 crores, then that would have been a very good hold. Hence, even though Rs. 4.05 crores is still fine and basically on expected lines, one feels that an added crore would have helped.
Nonetheless, that should be taken care of today since tomorrow is a partial holiday of Good Friday in some parts of the country and as a result the evening and night shows would be better today. This means that collections should be in the vicinity of Rs. 4 crores again today. As a matter of fact, even though Kesari – Chapter 2 is coming tomorrow, Jaat should score around Rs. 4 crores again since it’s for the single screens and interiors, which have a very different audience when compared to the Akshay Kumar starrer.
So far, the film has collected Rs. 57.97 crores and that’s more than a decent number for the first 7 days. Extended week of 8 days will help as the collections will now be closer to Rs. 62 crores. Post that, the second weekend will be the deciding factor for how much further to Rs. 90 crores will the Sunny Deol starrer go in its final run.
Note: All collections as per various box office sources
Director Tejas Deoskar opens up about the challenges and rewards of shooting Ground Zero, the upcoming Excel Entertainment film starring Emraan Hashmi as BSF Commandant Narendra Nath Dhar Dubey. Set against the early 2000s insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir, the film is inspired by what is said to be one of the Border Security Force’s most significant operations in the past five decades.
Deoskar, who is known for his grounded narratives, describes the Kashmir shoot as a unique filmmaking journey. “Shooting itself is a very demanding task, and shooting in Kashmir has its own unique charm. I say ‘charm’ because, despite the challenges, there’s an opportunity to go to places a common man cannot—thanks to the permissions we received and the incredible support from the LG’s administration,” he shared.
The director emphasized the importance of capturing both the natural beauty and the historical context of the region during that period. “Kashmir, as a location, is breathtaking—it’s beautiful, yet earthy and raw. The story demanded we capture both these sides. Since it’s set between 2001 and 2003, a period when Kashmir was in a very different state, with terrorism at its peak, the contrast was stark,” he added.
Tejas also credited the success of the shoot to on-ground support and collaboration with the local administration and production team. “A big thanks to the co-producer of the film, Arhan Bagati who was instrumental in making many things happen on ground—his support alongside the administration helped us immensely,” said Deoskar.
The team spent nearly a month in the region filming in lesser-known and largely inaccessible areas. “To depict that, we had to explore locations that weren’t even accessible to tourists, places that are largely unknown. And we were fortunate to reach them,” he stated.
Reflecting on the experience, Tejas Deoskar continued, “Over 25-26 days, we saw different landscapes, diverse social textures, met locals, and had some enlightening experiences. Often, you view a region like this only through the lens of the media, but being on the ground offers a very different, more truthful perspective.”
Ground Zero is produced by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar under Excel Entertainment and co-produced by Kassim Jagmagia, Vishal Ramchandani, Sundeep C Sidhwani, Arhan Bagati, Talisman Films, Abhishek Kumar, and Nishikant Roy. The film releases in cinemas on April 25, 2025.
Following the release of its trailer, the upcoming romantic comedy Bhool Chuk Maaf is back in focus with its first song, ‘Koi Naa’. The teaser has offered a brief look at what’s to come, building interest among fans. Produced by Dinesh Vijan and directed by Karan Sharma, the film features Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi in the lead roles. Bhool Chuk Maaf is set to release globally on May 9, 2025.
‘Koi Naa’ captures the soft, romantic tone of Bhool Chuk Maaf, offering a glimpse into the gentle bond between Ranjan and Titli. The song, composed by Tanishk Bagchi and Gifty with lyrics by Irshad Kamil, is sung by Harnoor and Shreya Ghoshal. With its soothing melody and tender visuals featuring Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi, the track reflects the early stirrings of love and sets the tone for the film’s emotional journey.
Sharing his excitement, Rajkummar Rao said, “The response to the trailer has been truly overwhelming, it’s always incredibly fulfilling when audiences connect with your work. With Koi Naa, we’re now adding a whole new romantic layer to the story. The song captures the quiet, unspoken emotions of love in such a beautiful way, it brings depth and soul to Ranjan and Titli’s journey. The first time I heard the track; I was completely hooked. It’s been on loop ever since! A big shout out to the entire music team for crafting such a heartfelt and vibey track.”
Wamiqa Gabbi, who brings elegance and effortless charm to the screen, added, “Shooting for ‘Koi Naa’ with Rajkummar was a blast! It’s hands down one of my favourites from the Bhool Chuk Maaf album. It makes you want to dream, feel, and just lose yourself in its rhythm. We hope everyone feels the same magic we felt while filming it.”
The singer of Koi Naa, Shreya Ghoshal, shared, “Bringing this track to life has been such an exciting ride! From the very first note, ‘Koi Naa’ pulls you into the whimsical world of Bhool Chuk Maaf. It’s got the energy of love, and a beat that makes you move. Can’t wait for everyone to vibe with it!”
Harnoor, the singer of the track added, “‘Koi Naa’ is about the beauty of falling in love and how it captures the most raw and vulnerable state of two individuals who are in love. For me Koi Naa is something very special as it not only beautifully captures the emotion of love but it also gave me a chance to collaborate with one of India’s most talented singers, Shreya Ghoshal. I am grateful to be a part of this multi-talented team. in unexpected ways. We wanted to bring an experience that mirrors the emotional journey of the movie, captures the essence of Ranjan and Titli’s character.
Music composer Tanishq Bagchi said, “With ‘Koi Naa’, we wanted to create a timeless, all-consuming love track- something that lingers with you. Thanks to Irshad’s evocative lyrics and the amazing voices of Shreya Ghoshal and Harnoor, and our full-hearted production, I think we’ve hit the right note.”
Irshad Kamil added Creating ‘Koi Naa’ for Bhool Chuk Maaf was truly a magical journey from start to finish. Koi Naa is not just a song but a feeling brought beautifully to life on screen by Rajkummar and Wamiqa. I feel truly grateful to have been part of a track so close to my heart. I hope audiences give it as much love as we felt while making it.”
Bhool Chuk Maaf is all set to tell the story of Ranjan and Titli’s love urging to uncover the reason behind the endless cycle to set things right and take audiences on a ride of emotions. With a perfect mix of humour, heart, and mystery, the film promises an unforgettable cinematic ride. Catch it in theatres worldwide on May 9, 2025.
The cast and crew of the much-awaited Bollywood film Kesari Chapter 2 recently held a heartfelt press conference in Amritsar, which also saw them paying respects at Sri Darbar Sahib and the historic Jallianwala Bagh, making it a significant stop in their promotional tour.
Ahead of their press conference in Amritsar, Kesari Chapter 2 stars Akshay Kumar, R. Madhavan, and Ananya Panday visited the revered Sri Darbar Sahib to offer their respects in a quiet, reflective moment. They later joined the rest of the cast at the historic Jallianwala Bagh to pay tribute to the martyrs of the tragic massacre.
The press meet drew media representatives from across Punjab, including Amritsar, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Mohali, and Chandigarh. The atmosphere was somber and respectful, underscoring the film’s powerful themes of bravery, justice, and sacrifice. Also present were Gurpreet Ghuggi, B Praak, Gurdas Maan, and notably, the grandson of the real-life figure portrayed by Akshay Kumar, lending a deeply emotional and historical layer to the event.
With Kesari Chapter 2 slated to release on April 18, 2025, the recent press conference in Amritsar stirred anticipation among fans and media alike. Directed by Karan Singh Tyagi and backed by a stellar cast, the film is set to explore the tragic events of Jallianwala Bagh, bringing to life the fight for justice through gripping performances and compelling storytelling.
Filmmaker Srijit Mukerji’s Begum Jaan completes eight years today. Starring Vidya Balan, Gauahar Khan, Pallavi Sharda, Chunky Pandey among others, the film was the remake of Mukherji’s own successful Bengali film Rajkahini. On the film’s eighth anniversary, producer Mahesh Bhatt went down memory lane in an interview with us.
When and how did you decide to produce the Hindi version of Srijit Mukherji’s Rajkahini?
I woke up to the brilliance of Srijit Mukherji inside the preview theatre buried in the quiet, dust-soft suburbs of Andheri. Rajkahini flickered before me like a dream remembered from another life, a dream stitched in smoke and soul. A film made with a kind of fragile magic that only someone who speaks in the tongue of shadows and light can conjure. Someone who believes not in money, but in the fire. And when it ended, and the lights came on, I saw him standing outside the door like a schoolboy awaiting his exam results. He had invited me, yes—but perhaps he had also summoned something long dormant in me. Something I had buried under years of compromise and fatigue.
You mean Rajkahini was a kind of awakening for you?
Yes, absolutely. I walked to him, and I embraced him—tight. I whispered into his head, “We still have hope. We shall have hope.” And in that moment, I knew it: the plural spirit of India—aching, magnificent, many-voiced India—will rise. Not in politics or pulpits, but in the hearts of its storytellers. In the irreversible truth of plurality that cannot be censored, only sung. Or woven into stories. Stories like Rajkahini.
Was that when you decided to produce the Hindi remake of Rajkahini?
And then the decision was made, to let this tale cross the language of its birth. To let it live again in Hindi, to breathe anew.
How did the casting happen?
So, the hunt began. And it was the luminous Vidya Balan who took the leap of faith. A woman who, like the film, stood firm in storm light. She agreed to shoot in the unkind, hazardous conditions of Bengal’s ragged borders, near Jharkhand, where roads were memory and night arrived too soon. Naseeruddin Shah appeared in a cameo, generous as always—asking for nothing, giving everything. Mr. (Amitabh) Bachchan lent his voice to the prologue, like a myth echoing through time.
That was quite a formidable line-up
That was because of the burning conviction, the persuasive fire of Srijit Mukherji, who knocked at every door not with ambition, but with longing. Our industry, for all its blind glamour and surface noise, still knows when real fire arrives at the threshold. No matter how high the stars climb, when they see a thirst that won’t quit, they make space for it. They give it their light.
Where do you place Begum Jaan in your oeuvre of productions?
I am deeply proud of Begum Jaan. And proud, too, of Kausar Munir—the wonder-girl, the child I hold with fondness. She gave the Hindi adaptation its pulse, its salt. Her words, her songs—they were born of some deep place. She didn’t just write; she remembered something that had not yet been said. But you know what was the crowning moment of the venture?
Please tell?
The crowning moment—the moment that still floods me—was when we came to the end, to that aching silence where the credits begin to roll. Srijit had a song in mind. But I suggested we revisit a forgotten line: not ‘Woh Subah Kabhi Toh Aayegi’—the one everyone knows—but the deeper one, the one Sahir Saab had hidden in plain sight. ‘Woh Subah Hum Hi Se Aayegi’. And then Arjit Singh gave it his voice: wounded, yearning, eternal. A song not of hope alone, but of resistance. Of insistence. Each time the credits scrolled, I found myself filled with tears. Not for the film, or the applause, or the journey. But for the possibility that someone, somewhere, would feel less alone.
Were you disappointed when Begum Jaan didn’t do well as Rajkahini? Begum Jaan did well enough. But it could not eclipse Rajkahini. How could it? A filmmaker making a film in his mother tongue is like a man singing in his sleep: truth flows easier, untranslatable. And yet Begum Jaan remains a shimmering chapter in my long walk through the illusion of cinema. A chapter with cracked windows, burning songs, women who bled for their roles. And a killer, played by Jisshu Sengupta, so chilling in his silence that one wonders what pain he had to carry to walk like that.
But most of all, Begum Jaan stands as a testament to Srijit Mukherji himself, to his fire, to his audacity, to his hope. The film bears his signature not just in craft, but in conviction. It is soaked in the defiance of a man who dared to dream in a difficult time, who believed that storytelling—if done with truth—could still shake walls, still stir hearts, still matter. We still have hope. We shall have hope.
Film trade expert Taran Adarsh has expressed deep disappointment over Salman Khan’s much-anticipated Eid release Sikandar, calling it a letdown for both fans and the film industry.
In an interview with Bollywood Hungama, Taran candidly shared his reaction to the film, which failed to live up to expectations despite the massive buzz surrounding its release. “There were a lot of expectations from Sikandar. Whenever I talk about Sikandar, I feel sad. I am very sad. Because all eyes were on it. When a big film, with a big actor, is set to release on Eid… Eid is a time when Salman Khan’s films have created magic in the past, and that has been phenomenal. He said, “Sikandar se bhi bohat umeedein thi. But woh kehte hai na, ‘unchi dukan, phika pakwan’, woh is film ke liye lagu hota hai.”
Revealing that he had watched the film a day before its release, Taran recalled, “I became so upset. Because I really like Salman as an actor. I am very fond of him as a person too. I think he is a very nice man. But after watching the film, I felt — what has Salman Khan done in this film?”
While Taran appreciated Salman’s attempt to move out of his comfort zone, working with director A.R. Murugadoss instead of frequent collaborators like Farhad Samji, Prabhu Deva, or Remo D’Souza, he felt the final product didn’t justify the effort. “I am proud of his choice, ke unhone apne comfort zone se bahar nikle… but kahin na kahin jo mehnat nazar aani chahiye bade parde par, woh nazar nahi aayi,” he concluded.
Released with high expectations and as a major Eid attraction, Sikandar failed to resonate with audiences and critics alike, becoming one of the most talked-about disappointments of Salman Khan’s career in recent years.
Kapil Sharma recently revealed his upcoming project Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2 and has been sharing fresh posters to build anticipation. Today, he shared a new poster to wish everyone a joyful Baisakhi, where he is seen posing with a Punjabi bride. The poster quickly went viral, sparking reactions from fans.
Kapil Sharma took to Instagram to share a new poster from Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2, where he is seen dressed as a Punjabi groom alongside a mysterious woman. He wished his followers a happy Baisakhi. One fan commented, “With God’s blessings, this movie will be a superhit blockbuster,” while another wrote, “Waiting for your movie.” After recently posing with a mystery bride in a nikaah ceremony setup, Kapil’s new poster hints at yet another wedding scene in the film.
In an interview with News18, Kapil Sharma shared that after the release of Zwigato, he received several film offers for serious roles. He revealed, “After the Zwigato trailer dropped, I was offered nine films. And all these films were in the serious zone. But (it was evident that) many of those writers weren’t serious about their own work (laughs).”
When asked about his limited involvement in Hindi films, Kapil Sharma honestly explained, “I’m thankful to God for being able to do some good work and earn well by being within my own comfort zone. But if I’m required to step out of that space and go work under the scorching sun, the script should be good so that it feels worth it.”
He added, “I only want to do films that touch my heart. It was a priority for me and it will always remain a priority. I don’t want to do films just to earn money. I’ve earned enough. I’m very rich (laughs).”
Starring Kapil Sharma and Manjot Singh, Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2 brings back the signature mix of comedy, confusion, and chaos that made the original a fan favorite.
Directed by Anukalp Goswami, the film is produced by Ratan Jain, Ganesh Jain, and Abbas-Mustan, under Venus Worldwide Entertainment in collaboration with Abbas Mustan Film Production.
Bollywood’s 1990s era is often remembered for its larger-than-life romances, iconic soundtracks, and star-driven narratives that captivated audiences. Aamir Khan was at the forefront of this wave, delivering blockbusters like Raja Hindustani that defined the decade. However, a recent statement by Imran Khan, Aamir’s nephew and a former actor, has reignited discussions about how these films hold up today. In an interview, Imran described some of Aamir’s early films, including the 1996 hit Raja Hindustani, as “uncomfortable to watch” and “problematic” when viewed through a modern lens.
Imran Khan’s Perspective: A Modern Lens on Raja Hindustani
Imran Khan has been largely absent from the screen since 2015. In a candid conversation with Filmfare, he reflected on his uncle Aamir’s illustrious career, acknowledging the monumental success of films like Raja Hindustani while pointing out their flaws. Directed by Dharmesh Darshan, the film was a massive commercial hit, making it one of the top earners of the 1990s. It told the story of Raja, a small-town taxi driver (played by Aamir), who falls in love with Aarti, a wealthy urbanite (Karisma Kapoor), navigating class divides and familial opposition.
Imran asserted, “You know, there are some of his 90s films that have not aged well, and when you look at them through a modern lens, they are kind of problematic. There are moments that are quite uncomfortable. Raja Hindustani, which was a staggering hit, is very uncomfortable to watch. You look at it and you go, ‘This is wrong; we are not supposed to,’ so there are a fair amount of 90s films that are uncomfortable by today’s measures.”
Besides this, Imran also opened up about Aamir’s influence in his life. He said, “In my own way, I am tremendously led by him. Through life, whenever I am facing a dilemma, I think, ‘What would Aamir do?’ I may not exactly approach it in the same way as him; a lot of our methodologies and beliefs are different, but at its core, he has always been driven by integrity and authenticity. Your guiding principle must come from what is morally justifiable and then what is the most truthful and most authentic way that we can render this story. Those are kind of the core guiding principles which I have learnt from him, which I still adhere to.”
Speaking of the professional front, Aamir is all set to grace the big screens with Sitaare Zameen Par. Meanwhile, there are speculations of Imran making a comeback, however, nothing has been materialized as of now.
Long before The Last of Us broke hearts and records, executive producer Carolyn Strauss and Co-Creator, Executive Producer, Writer and Director Craig Mazin found their rhythm on Chernobyl. The Emmy-winning series marked the beginning of a creative bond that would redefine modern TV drama. Season 2 of The Last of Us will premiere on April 14 on JioHotstar, in English, Hindi, Kannada, Tamil and Telugu.
Recalling her first impressions of Mazin, Strauss highlighted a rare blend of qualities that made their working relationship click instantly. “The first things I learned about Craig—I loved his sense of humor and intelligence and his story sense. He’s a brilliant structuralist. I thought his notes were so insightful and impressive,” she said in an exclusive quote.
It wasn’t just Mazin’s sharp mind that drew her in, it was his ability to execute a vision with both ambition and precision. “He pitched me his idea for Chernobyl. I thought it was really impressive in its reach and ambition, but also in its grasp. There are plenty of times when people have ambitions, but they can’t execute them. But Craig’s intellect and imagination could execute his vision,” she added.
Strauss, who has built her reputation on backing projects with bold visionaries, knew she had found someone special. She said, “I feel like my whole career has been about understanding the right coattails to grab onto. So I thought, ‘I’m going to grab onto this guy’s coattails.’”
With Chernobyl earning global acclaim and The Last of Us continuing to resonate deeply with audiences, it’s clear that Strauss chose the right coattails and in doing so, helped steer some of the most compelling narratives of this era.
Catch the premiere of The Last of Us Season 2 on JioHotstar from April 14 in English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada.
In a significant step towards promoting responsible digital parenting and safeguarding children’s rights on the internet, actress and social activist Neha Dhupia has joined hands with Assam Police and PIIR Foundation to amplify the internationally recognised campaign #DontBeASharent.
Originally launched by Assam Police, #DontBeASharent has grown into a global movement highlighting the risks of oversharing children’s personal information on social media and the urgent need for mindful digital behaviour by parents and caregivers.
Neha Dhupia, known for her advocacy on parenting and online safety, joins this growing movement to encourage families to adopt responsible digital habits. “As a mother, I understand the joy of sharing our children’s milestones online. But we must ask ourselves — how much is too much? ‘#DontBeASharent’ is a powerful reminder to protect our children not just physically, but digitally too,” she said.
The campaign will now expand through a series of awareness videos, PSAs, and educational workshops across schools and community spaces, with plans to scale internationally. Assam Police and PIIR Foundation will continue to lead this charge by creating informed conversations on children’s digital rights and responsible parenting in the age of the Internet.
