Tom Cruise shares BTS of underwater communication in new featurette for Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, watch

Tom Cruise has shared a behind-the-scenes featurette titled Underwater Communication, giving a look at the making of Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning. In this latest chapter of the franchise, Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt and takes on underwater scenes that add a new layer to the film’s action.

The featurette delves into the meticulous planning and execution of the film’s underwater scenes, highlighting the innovative communication techniques employed during filming. Director Christopher McQuarrie and the production team collaborated closely with diving experts to ensure the safety and realism of these sequences.

 

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Tom Cruise, known for performing his own stunts, underwent extensive training to master the challenges of underwater acting. The video showcases Cruise and co-stars rehearsing complex choreography, emphasizing the dedication and physical endurance that has undergone for such a demanding scene.

 

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Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning promises to deliver the high-octane thrills synonymous with the franchise, with the underwater sequences standing out as a testament to the team’s commitment to cinematic excellence.

The final chapter of this blockbuster franchise Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning to make way into cinemas across India on Saturday, May 17, 2025 in English, Hindi, Tamil & Telugu only in 4Dx and IMAX. Experience the ultimate adventure one last time!

Also Read : Tom Cruise reveals power breakfast behind extreme stunts in Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning

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Sanjay Suri on 24 years of Daman, “We all used to bond over lovely tea at the tea gardens in Assam”

Sanjay Suri had just entered the industry when he got a chance to play a pivotal character in Kalpana Lajmi’s acclaimed Daman, which starred Raveena Tandon alongside Sayaji Shinde. He looks back at the film on its 24^th anniversary in an interview with us.

How did you land a role in Kalpana Lajmi’s Daman?
I still remember it was very early in my career after Pyar Mein Kabhi Kabhi and Tera Jadoo Chal Gaya that I got a call from Kalpana Lajmi. I was very excited to hear from her. I had loved Rudali and wanted to work with her and Bhupenda (Hazarika).

How did your meeting with Kalpana go?
On one call I visited her office in Lokhandwala, where she met me and said she really liked me in Pyar Mein Kabhi Kabhi and had a role to offer in her next film called Daman. I was super excited.

Daman was not a mainstream film, and still you wanted to be part of it so early in your career?
A lot of focus for newcomers then would have been commercial films but here I was getting a chance to work with her. I definitely was excited about it. I met Onir also for the first time at her office; he was editing the film. So, in a way my long association with Onir started with Kalpana ji and Daman.

How was the shooting in Assam?
Soon everything fell into place. We were off for the shoot to beautiful Assam with Raveena Tandon, Sayaji Shinde and Raima Sen. The story of marital rape was being explored by Kalpana. I played Raveena’s empathetic, sensitive brother-in-law.

Did you enjoy working with Raveena?
I had seen her movies and this was an opportunity for me to work with a very experienced and famous star, so yes as a newcomer it was very exciting for me to be playing the romantic lead opposite her and also play the younger brother to a very seasoned actor like Sayaji Shinde.

Lots of fond memories?
Daman became a starting point of many friendships too, be it Onir, Raveena, Raima Sen or even you, Subhash. Even during our evenings over there, Bhupen da would sing for us next to a bonfire and it was really special to have experienced all that 25 years ago. Often, we all used to bond over lovely tea at the tea gardens in Assam where most of us were staying. Onir and I used to discuss cinema over a cup of tea. I am thankful to Kalpana ji who was instrumental in bringing all of us together and she and Bhupen da are missed a lot.

Also Read: Sanjay Suri on 21 years of the late Raj Kaushal’s Shaadi Ka Laddoo, “Raj tapped into the funny side of me, which rarely any other director has”

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Prime Focus Group partners with Maharashtra Government to build $ 400 million global entertainment hub in Mumbai

Prime Focus Group, the world’s largest independent media services company, announced in collaboration with the Government of Maharashtra its plans to develop a new global entertainment hub in Mumbai, the center of India’s film industry.

The announcement outlines an investment of 3000crs (approximately $400m USD) in the development of a new entertainment ecosystem, creating a unique destination for content creators, tourists, and fans of entertainment from all over the world, and creating thousands of highly skilled jobs in the region.

Prime Focus, established in 1997 by founder Namit Malhotra and listed on both the National and Bombay Stock Exchanges of India, is the parent company of the Prime Focus Group, which includes eight-time Academy Awardⓒ-winning visual effects and animation company DNEG, AI technology company BRAHMA, and content financing and production company Prime Focus Studios.

The facilities proposed for the new site include:

• world-class production studios to facilitate high-end content creation, supported by a state-of-the-art digital infrastructure
• creation of a worldwide entertainment destination, with live entertainment facilities, theme parks, and experience centres
• and lifestyle experiences, including shopping and dining destinations, top-flight hotels, housing, and more.

The Prime Focus Group already owns and operates one of Asia’s largest production facilities in Mumbai, including eight Hollywood-designed soundstages in a 200,000 square foot studio complex. The Group’s post-production facilities, including its DNEG Mumbai studio, are located nearby.

The Honourable Mr. Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra said, “Growth, infrastructure development, and a sustainable future are all vital to the development of Maharashtra. As we continue to lead the way in massive infrastructure projects – including the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train, the coastal road, and the Vadhvan Port – I am glad to add the creation of this next-generation entertainment hub to the list of projects that are transforming our state, keeping us at the forefront of India’s growth and development. I look forward to working with Prime Focus and DNEG to create a world-class production and tourism destination, securing Mumbai’s position as a filmmaking and entertainment centre of excellence.”

Prime Focus Group Founder Namit Malhotra said, “My vision for this development, which is shared by the Honourable Chief Minister Mr. Devendra Fadnavis, is to honour the 100+ year legacy of our world-renowned movie industry by bringing together the combined might of the Prime Focus Group companies – including DNEG’s Oscar-winning creativity, Brahma’s AI technology, and Prime Focus Studios financing and production capabilities – to build the world’s most advanced and innovative centre of excellence for the creation of content, right at the heart of our filmmaking heritage, here in Mumbai.”

“Leveraging our country’s history of skilled craftsmanship and innovation, we are not just developing the world’s foremost content creation centre; we are also creating a destination that presents India’s culture, our history, and our capabilities to the world, with entertainment and lifestyle experiences that are second-to-none,” continued Malhotra. “This new site will be a best practice example of what India can deliver in technology, creativity, and entertainment, and will become a worldwide leisure destination, right at the heart of one of the world’s oldest filmmaking industries. We are bringing India to the world by bringing the world to India.”

Also Read : Kalki 2898 AD director Nag Ashwin thanks VFX teams for pushing the limits: “Their creativity and technical expertise were instrumental in crafting the film’s climax”

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WAVES 2025: Aamir Khan reveals his father stopped him from playing tennis despite being state topper; adds why he told Shabana Azmi not to inform his dad about his acting talent: “I told her, ‘If you tell him, I won’t be ALIVE to be an actor’”

On Day 3 of WAVES 2025, Aamir Khan conducted a one-hour-plus-long masterclass on ‘The Art of Acting’. It got an incredible response and many aspiring actors learned how to be a better actor, that too from the perfectionist himself. Aamir revealed that though his family were in the film business, his father Tahir Hussain was clear that he didn’t want the superstar to be a part of it.

Aamir Khan said, “I was the number one Tennis player in the Maharashtra sub-junior category. I used to practice 5-6 hours. Once, I failed in a couple of subjects by 2-3 marks. He got angry and stopped my tennis practice. Main top pe tha aur mera agle din se tennis bandh ho gaya tha. I was dealing with a father who was very strict and if he knew that I wanted to enter films, woh toh meri jaan hi le lete!”

He added, “My classmate was Aditya Bhattacharya, Basu Bhattacharya’s son. He was quite interested in filmmaking. He made a short film named Paranoia. He asked me to help him. I agreed. I was not just an actor in the film but also the production manager, assistant, etc.”

Aamir Khan continued, “Aditya’s mother Rinki aunty was good friends with Shabana Azmi. This is how a screening was held for Shabana ji at Dimple Preview Theatre, owned by Rajender Kumar. After the screening, Shabana ji confessed that she didn’t understand the film! However, she asked about the actor. Aditya told her that the actor was present in the hall. I stood up. She asked me my name. I said, ‘I am Aamir’. She told me, ‘You’re a very good actor. You should be acting. Where are you from?’. This is when Rinki aunty told Shabana ji, ‘Yeh toh Tahir saab ka beta hai’.”

He also said, “Shabana ji was working with my father at that time for Khoon Ki Pukaar (1978). Since she knew my father very well, she said, ‘I must tell Tahir Saab (that she loved my acting)’. I replied, ‘No, ma’am. If you tell him, I won’t be alive to be an actor’ (laughs). My father was so famous for being short-tempered that everyone in the industry knew how he was. He had shouted at Shabana ji as well 3-4 times. Hence, she understood immediately.”

Also Read: Aamir Khan admits he HATED Dil marriage-with-no-witness scene, until Gaiety-Galaxy went WILD: “Indra Kumar told me, ‘Audience logic nahin sochne waali’; mujhe poora yakeen tha ki log uss scene pe thukenge humpe…”

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Manoj Bajpayee to headline political thriller titled Governor, to be backed by Vipul A Shah: Report

Vipul Amrutlal Shah, known for his work in both production and direction, has a number of successful films to his credit. With a filmmaking style that balances audience appeal and commercial viability, he has built a steady reputation in the industry. An upcoming project now adds to his slate of work. Shah is set to collaborate with National Award-winning actor Manoj Bajpayee on a political thriller titled Governor.

According to a report by PeepingMoon.com, Bajpayee will portray the titular role in this theatrically-released drama. Shah, known for directing films like Aankhen, Waqt: The Race Against Time, Namastey London, London Dreams, Action Replayy, and Namaste England, will produce the film under his banner, Sunshine Pictures. Direction will be handled by Chinmay Mandlekar.

Governor has been in development at Sunshine Pictures for the past two years. Casting for supporting roles is ongoing, and the project has entered pre-production. Filming is scheduled to begin between July and August. This will mark the first collaboration between Shah and Bajpayee, with the film set to present the actor in a new kind of role.

The film is produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah, directed by Chinmay Mandlekar, and co-produced by Aashin Shah. Separately, Shah is also working on Hisaab, a heist thriller starring Jaideep Ahlawat and Shefali Shah. Co-produced by Sunshine Pictures and Jio Studios, Hisaab is expected to release in the second half of 2025.

Also Read: Manoj Bajpayee showers birthday praise on Family Man co-star Samantha Ruth Prabhu; says, “‘She’s not afraid to take risks” 

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Honey Singh drops high-energy party anthem ‘Laal Pari’ from Housefull 5; watch

After the teaser of Housefull 5 generated early buzz, producer Sajid Nadiadwala has released the film’s first song — “Laal Pari.” Set on a luxurious cruise, this upbeat party track adds to the film’s lively vibe.

Sung by the ever-popular Yo Yo Honey Singh and the dynamic Simar Kaur, ‘Laal Pari’ is composed by Honey Singh himself, with lyrics penned by him and Alfaaz. True to Honey Singh’s signature style, the track blends infectious beats with slick vocals, making it a guaranteed chartbuster and a must-add to your party playlist.  The music is presented by T-Series.

The song brings back the iconic collaboration of Honey Singh and Akshay Kumar, amplified by stunning choreography from the ace Remo D’Souza. With a hookstep that’s already catching fire on social media, this track is poised to go viral.

Laal Pari showcases the sparkling chemistry of the film’s massive ensemble cast — Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan, Riteish Deshmukh, Jacqueline Fernandez, Sonam Bajwa, Nargis Fakhri, Sanjay Dutt, Jackie Shroff, Nana Patekar, Chitrangada Singh, Chunky Pandey, Johnny Lever, Shreyas Talpade, Soundarya Sharma, Nikitin Dheer, and Akashdeep Sabir — making it a true visual and musical treat for fans.

Only a producer like Sajid Nadiadwala could unite such a massive and star-packed cast,  pulling off a lineup this grand is no small feat today. Directed by Tarun Mansukhani, Housefull 5 takes audiences aboard a glamorous cruise for a laughter-packed ride filled with unexpected twists, rib-tickling comedy, and foot-tapping music.

Produced by Sajid Nadiadwala under the banner of Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, Housefull 5 hits cinemas worldwide on 6th June 2025.

Also Read : Raid 2 ‘Money Money’ song launch: Yo Yo Honey Singh reveals he made Ajay Devgn wait for 4 hours on sets of ‘Aata Majhi Satakli’: “Mujhe laga mujhe maar padne waali hai!”

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Suniel Shetty says, “Time is ripe for stories of Indian warriors” as he gears up for Kesari Veer

Suniel Shetty is all set to portray the brave warrior Vegda Ji in his upcoming historical drama Kesari Veer: Legends of Somnath. Directed by Prince Dhiman and produced by Kanu Chauhan, the film also stars Vivek Oberoi, Sooraj Pancholi, and debutant Akanksha Sharma. At the trailer launch event held recently, Shetty addressed the importance of bringing India’s lesser-known historical heroes to the screen, while reflecting on the current definition of success in cinema.

“We haven’t been taught about our history in schools and colleges. We’ve been taught about Aurangzeb, Akbar, and Birbal, but not about our heroes. I think that the time is now to tell those untold stories,” Shetty said. The actor emphasized the changing mindset of audiences and the increasing reach of content today, adding, “There are multiple mediums through which these stories can reach them, till the last mile, till the end user. I believe that we’ve forgotten that there is an audience who desires to watch films. They are responsible for the success and failure of a film.”

Reflecting on the current industry perspective, Shetty said, “We think a film has achieved success when it looks successful on the financial table. But that’s not how it is. Unfortunately, we’ve been seeing this for the past few years. I think it’s important that we go back to the drawing table and take out such stories and narrate them in our own way.”

Pointing out India’s cultural richness, he continued, “We have 28 states and 9 union territories, and each state and each union territory has its own story. Kanu Chauhan came up and said that he wants to tell the story of Gujarat. Maybe I would not know as much, maybe I would want to talk about the story from Karnataka. Stories will be told when actors, directors, and producers tell them.”

He concluded with a message on creative confidence: “We speak about comparing our films, and it’s that fear that is stopping us. It’s important to let go of the fear and start believing in ourselves and execute the films that make sense, and not necessarily financial sense only. People will watch this story, hear it, and stories like these will be told in the future also.”

Kesari Veer: Legends of Somnath is slated for release on May 16, 2025.

Also Read: Kesari Veer trailer launch: 10 years after Salman Khan comforted him, Sooraj Pancholi breaks down again; this time, Suniel Shetty offers the shoulder

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Jacqueline Fernandez and Neil Nitin Mukesh star in intense dance battle drama Hai Junoon, trailer out now

JioHotstar has released the trailer for Hai Junoon – Dream. Dare. Dominate, a drama series that follows intense rivalries, big ambitions, and the battle for the GOAT’s trophy. Directed by Abhishek Sharma and produced by Jio Creative Labs, the show is created by Aditya Bhat and features a diverse ensemble cast including Jacqueline Fernandez, Neil Nitin Mukesh, Boman Irani, Sumedh Mudgalkar, Siddharth Nigam, Priyank Sharma, and several promising newcomers.

Set in the energetic environment of Anderson’s College in Mumbai, the series explores the competitive world of dance and music battles. It follows Sebi (Sumedh Mudgalkar), an underdog who puts together a crew called The Misfits, mentored by the determined Jacquline Fernandez. They go up against the college’s elite group, the Supersonics, led by Gagan Ahuja (Neil Nitin Mukesh), who’s driven by legacy and reputation. As ambitions, identities, and loyalties are tested, the stage is set for a compelling showdown.

 

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Neil Nitin Mukesh, who plays the character of Gagan Ahuja said, “As someone who has grown up around music and cinema, I’ve always believed in the power of great sound to be an integral part our storytelling. But what Hai Junoon offers is something truly unique — a full-blown musical universe, an experience like never before in the Web world. With 40 incredible tracks, it’s not just the biggest album of the year, it’s a movement. Every song pushes the narrative forward and adds depth to the characters blending seamlessly into its screenplay. Being part of a GRAND SHOW like this — where music is not a forced attraction, but the very heartbeat of the story — has been creatively exhilarating. It’s the kind of Show that reminds you why you fell in love with cinema in the first place.”

Jacqueline Fernandez, who plays Pearl Saldhana said, “Pearl is a fascinating character , glamorous and assertive on the outside, yet deeply vulnerable underneath. To portray her authentically, I had to unlearn a lot of my trained dance instincts and adapt to a rawer, emotionally-driven style of performance. That journey was tough, but also liberating. The physicality, the emotional depth, the narrative arc, it all demanded a part of me I hadn’t tapped into before. Collaborating with such a passionate team made the process incredibly fulfilling. I truly believe JioHotstar is ushering in a new age of bold and fresh storytelling, and I’m proud to be part of this exciting era.”

Sumedh Mudgalkar, who plays Sebi said, “Sebi (Subhash Mhatre) is more than just a character, he’s a symbol of every outsider who dares to dream. Coming from humble beginnings, he refuses to accept that belonging to a certain legacy is the only path to greatness. His fight is deeply personal, at the same time he is vulnerable and learns everything he needs to along the way, his experiences are his source of guidance, such things and more elements in the script made me resonate with the character in ways I didn’t expect. Learning new dance styles, pushing my physical limits, and emotionally connecting with Sebi’s pain, hustle, and passion made this role transformative. Sharing the screen with incredible artists like Jacqueline pushed me to deliver my absolute best. Dance and music are just one aspect of the show, this show is m more than a competition, it’s about courage, belief, problems we all go through, struggles we would resonate with, breaking barriers, and the fire to build a bigger life. All the characters have their own separate arc, different struggles, different learnings, different motives behind their dreams which is what we see in our day to day lives.

Siddharth Nigam, who plays the character of Bikram said, “People have always associated me with dance, but in Hai Junoon, I got the chance to explore a whole new side of my creativity, that’s music. Learning to sing for the role was both exciting and intimidating, and I spent hours in vocal workshops to make sure I brought depth and honesty to Bikram. This show gave me the platform to break out of the mold and show a more versatile version of myself. And honestly, the energy on set was so infectious — we were like one big family, feeding off each other’s passion and drive”.

Priyank Sharma, who essays the role of Kush expressed his excitement stating, “Dance is my first love, and playing a dancer felt like returning to my roots. But what made this journey unique was being able to mentor some of my co-stars during rehearsals. We built genuine friendships through the process, and that bond translates beautifully on screen. Hai Junoon isn’t just about perfect choreography, it’s about soul, struggle, and self-expression. It’s a celebration of the artist in all of us, and I’m thrilled audiences will finally get to experience that on JioHotstar.”

Abhishek Sharma said, “Directing Hai Junoon felt like going back to those chaotic, beautiful college days when every emotion was dialed up to a hundred—whether it was love, rivalry, ambition, or heartbreak. This story comes from that raw, unfiltered place we’ve all been in, where we’re trying to figure out who we are and where we belong. Each character, each scene holds a piece of that journey. And I have to say, the cast didn’t just act—they lived it. Their honesty lit up every frame. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built, and deeply grateful to JioHotstar for giving us the space to tell this story the way it deserves to be told—loud, passionate, and unapologetically real.”

Hai Junoon – Dream. Dare. Dominate begins streaming on 16th May 2025, exclusively on JioHotstar, bringing a story of music, dance, and ambition to the screen.

Also Read : Hai Junoon teaser: Neil Nitin Mukesh and Jacqueline Fernandez star in a musical battle on JioHotstar

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Jackky Bhagnani on the failure of Bade Miyan Chote Miyan: “The content didn’t resonate with the audience, We have mortgaged our properties to make this film”

Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff’s Bade Miyan Chote Miyan was expected to be the biggest hit of 2024, but it ended up being the year’s biggest failure. Now, producer Jackky Bhagnani has spoken out about the film’s disappointing performance and the controversies it sparked.

In an interview with SCREEN, the actor-producer discussed the film’s failure and the emotional impact it had on him. He revealed that his family had to mortgage properties in order to finance the project.

Jackky shared, “For me, it has been a huge learning. We invested a lot of money and I realised that just scale is not good enough. Somewhere, we felt that the content that was made didn’t resonate with the audience at all. The public is always right. If didn’t resonate then I have to go back to the drawing board and understand why did this piece of content didn’t resonate with the audience. I have to take that with a pinch of salt and not make that mistake in the future. I would like to say that the returns are not even less than 50%. I don’t think anyone can understand what our pain was. As a family, we have mortgaged our properties to make this film. We realise that there is no point in saying anything or speaking anything.”

He continued, “We invested with faith, hoping a good piece of content is made and the audience will like it. The honest truth is all of this is noise, if the film did well, no controversy would have happened. It is not my nature to take sides but all I would like to say is it was tough times and it is very important that we should all be very conscious of each other’s money.”

Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff teamed up for the first time in the action-packed film Bade Miyan Chote Miyan. Despite a hefty budget, the movie failed to attract audiences after its opening day and ultimately finished its box office run with a disappointing Rs.102.16 crore. Directed by Ali Abbas Zafar, the film ended up as one of the biggest flops of 2024. It also starred Prithviraj Sukumaran, Alaya F, and Manushi Chillar.

Following the film’s release, several crew members accused Pooja Entertainment of failing to clear their payments on time. A report by Bollywood Hungama revealed that the production company’s seven-floor office in Mumbai was sold to settle a Rs. 250 crore debt, amid mounting financial troubles.

Also Read : Jackky Bhagnani meets CM of Madhya Pradesh Mohan Yadav; discusses promotion of entertainment infra in the state

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Neha Kakkar faces new allegations about Melbourne concert after organizers refute singer’s claims of mismanagement and non-payment

Neha Kakkar found herself at the centre of a controversy during her recent concert in Melbourne after a video surfaced online showing the singer tearfully addressing fans about her delay, after which she made many mismanagement and non-payment allegations against the event’s organizers. She claimed her band members were denied food and water, and that the organizers failed to make her payment or meet basic commitments in a social media note. However, in a dramatic turn of events, the organizers have now come forward to refute her accusations and level serious counterclaims against the singer.

Following the backlash over the concert, Neha took to social media to pen a note accusing the organizers of mismanagement and lack of hospitality. However, Bikram Singh Randhawa, part of the organizing team, in an interview with Siddharth Kanan, denied her version of events. “The crowd was ready and cheering, expecting her to come on stage. But she showed up at 10 PM — that’s two and a half hours late since the scheduled time was 7:30 PM. So the crowd got upset and angry. In Australia, people value their time. People had made special efforts to come with their families. Some even bought tickets worth AUD 300 — that’s around Rs 15,000 to Rs 16,000,” Randhawa said.

He further clarified that Neha had been paid in full well before the concert and that she was offered “lavish accommodation” based on her own requirements. The organizers alleged that Neha was reluctant to perform due to an audience turnout of 700 people. “Only 700 people? Until more people come in and this place fills up, I’m not going to perform,” Neha reportedly told the organizers just before her act.

Event host Pace D also spoke out about the incident and backed the organizers’ account. “Beat Production from Melbourne was the one who invited Neha Kakkar. Now that both parties have come forward and spoken openly, then why can’t we? We were there and saw everything. I spoke to Preet Pabla bhai, who was the event organiser. I asked him everything. He’s a very nice and genuine person. That’s when I found out that she didn’t arrive on time and there were multiple delays. He told me that she kept saying things like, ‘I won’t go now; I won’t do this.’”

Responding to her mismanagement complaint, he said, “This was such a big show, the entire tech rider was in place. There were opening acts, and everyone performed. Her mic and complete setup were fully ready. So, the things she’s been saying don’t seem to be true, because we saw with our own eyes that everything was set up properly.”

As of now, Neha Kakkar has not publicly responded to these new allegations. The incident continues to divide opinion online.

Also Read: Tony Kakkar pens cryptic note amid Neha Kakkar’s Melbourne Concert criticism: “Artist maryada mein rahe aur janta?”

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Kesari Veer trailer launch: Suniel Shetty creates a FRENZY as he explains why Hera Pheri 3 is a ‘deshbhakti ki film’: “Yeh film desh ko khush rakh sakti hai; it should be watched by children so that they are mentally happy”

Suniel Shetty, Akanksha Sharma, Sooraj Pancholi, director Prince Dhiman and producer Kanubhai Chauhan launched the trailer of their historical action drama, Kesari Veer, at a multiplex in Mumbai. Suniel Shetty stole the show, especially with his quote on Hera Pheri (2000).

While talking to the media, he remarked that it might be difficult to sell tickets for a patriotic film. A journalist observed that Akshay Kumar also does nationalist films and that they do well at the box office. Suniel Shetty clarified, “I was not refering to Akshay. I was talking about myself. Akshay is a superstar! Meri pichhli filmein nahin chali hai.”

The journalist pointed out that even Suniel Shetty was a superstar. The veteran actor smiled and replied, “Ticketein nahin bikti na, beta! That matters the most. I guess there’s a lot of love for me in people. But log kisi kisi ko free mein dekhna chahte hai. Shayad mujhe free mein dekhna chahte hai (laughs)! Hopefully, with Kesari Veer, there will be a change.”

The journalist then asked if he and Akshay Kumar would join hands for a patriotic film. Suniel reminded her that they both are working on Hera Pheri 3. The journalist was bewildered and noted that Hera Pheri is not exactly a patriotic film.

Suniel Shetty, however, disagreed with her, “Woh deshbhakti ki film hai! Yeh film desh ko khush rakh sakti hai. The problem with today’s children is that they are not mentally happy. Hera Pheri should be watched so that everyone is at peace and mentally happy. Hera Pheri ke characters gareebi mein haste bhi hai aur logon ko hasate bhi hai. And if we get a partner like Babu Bhaiya, that is like an icing on the cake!” As expected, the attendees went into a frenzy over this answer.

Kesari Veer releases in cinemas on May 16.

Also Read: Kesari Veer trailer launch: Suniel Shetty on why his Main Hoon Na character was patriotic: “Jo desh se pyaar kar sakta hai, woh kabhi villain ho hi nahin sakta hai; I asked Farah Khan, ‘How come Raghavan is negative?’”

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Photos: Sooraj Pancholi, Suniel Shetty, Akanksha Sharma and others grace the trailer launch of Kesari Veer

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Dia Mirza shares simple climate-saving tips in collaboration with Tata Tea Jaago Re

Dia Mirza has joined forces with Tata Tea Jaago Re for a campaign focused on encouraging simple, daily actions to combat climate change. Moving away from grand gestures, the initiative highlights how small lifestyle choices can add up to significant environmental impact.

In the campaign video, Dia invites audiences into her kitchen to demonstrate these ideas. “It’s all about those small shifts,” she explained. “Like simply putting a lid on your pot while cooking – it saves more energy than you think!” The campaign aims to make climate action feel more accessible. Speaking about her involvement, Dia said, “We are all feeling the effects of climate change. This initiative personalizes the fight, allowing us to see the difference we’re making. That gives me hope, and I want everyone to feel empowered to act.”

At the centre of the initiative is an AI-powered climate calculator available on JaagoRe.com. Users are encouraged to snap a photo of their green action — such as covering a pot while cooking or choosing public transport — and upload it to the platform. The AI then calculates the amount of CO₂ saved, offering users immediate feedback on their contribution. Additionally, for every ten green actions logged, a tree is planted in the user’s name. The actress also shared about it on her Instagram page with a sweet promo.

 

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Dia emphasized the importance of consistency over grand gestures, saying, “It all starts with small actions done regularly. With the help of Jaago Re, we can start making a difference and leave behind a better world.” She further added, “Every small action counts… because collectively, they can create a big impact and help us improve the future for our children.” One of the highlights of the campaign is the sense of tangible progress it provides. “Thanks to Tata Tea Jaago AI, I can see the impact of my green actions – and that’s what gives me hope,” Dia shared.

Through this initiative, Tata Tea Jaago Re and Dia Mirza aim to build awareness and motivate individuals to become more conscious of their everyday environmental impact — starting with simple actions inside their homes.

Also Read: Dia Mirza welcomes Fawad Khan’s return to Bollywood; says, “Art should never be mixed with hate”

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Suriya46: Suriya shares exciting update about Venky Atluri directorial

While promoting his much-awaited film Retro, Suriya made a major announcement that delighted fans. At a recent event, he confirmed that he will be kicking off his next project, currently being referred to as Suriya46, with director Venky Atluri, under the banner of Sithara Entertainments, next month.

Speaking about the upcoming film, Suriya said, “I have to announce this today. I had to start with Allu Arvind garu, the whole journey started with him”. Suriya went on to add how with his blessings, he will now share an update about the film audiences have been waiting for and went on to reveal how he is excited about associating with Sithara Entertainments, Vamsi and his dear brother Venky. He further added, “This will be my next. As you’ve all been asking after a long time, with beautiful association and beautiful talent here. We will be doing my next Tamil film with Venky (Atluri), and I will be spending a lot of time here in beautiful Hyderabad. From May onwards, we start our next. We need all your love, we need all your blessings. This will be a beautiful journey.”

Venky Atluri also shared his excitement by reposting a video snippet from the event on his Instagram story, writing, “Absolutely privileged and very excited to collaborate with the phenomenal @actorsuriya sir for his next, #Suriya46. Looking forward to sharing this unique journey with you all soon! Produced by my dearest @nagavamsi19 garu! @sitharaentertainments.”

The news has created a buzz online, especially as several videos from the event have gone viral. Along with Suriya’s announcement, the event was also attended by Vijay Deverakonda, further adding star power to the evening. Fans could not contain their excitement, flooding social media with clips, reactions, and speculations about Suriya46.

Meanwhile, Suriya’s immediate focus remains on Retro, directed by Karthik Subbaraj. The film stars Pooja Hegde opposite Suriya and is set to release on May 1 in Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi. Promising a stylish entertainer, Retro has already created strong pre-release buzz thanks to its intriguing posters, trailers, and the chemistry between its lead pair. With Retro gearing up for release and Suriya 46 officially announced, it is shaping up to be a busy and thrilling year for Suriya and his fans.

Also Read: Suriya credits Retro co-star Pooja Hegde for ‘Kanimaa’ song’s success: “She has promoted the film a little more than me”

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SCOOP: Varun Dhawan’s Bhediya 2 won’t release on August 14, 2026; Ranbir Kapoor-Alia Bhatt-Vicky Kaushal’s Love & War expected to clash with Kartik Aaryan’s Naagzilla on Independence Day week

Bollywood Hungama was the first to inform our esteemed readers that Sanjay Leela Bhansali has delayed Love & War from the March 2026 slot due to a delay in shooting. 2 days ago, we revealed that Sanjay Leela Bhansali is looking at releasing the Ranbir Kapoor-Alia Bhatt-Vicky Kaushal starrer on August 14, 2026. Incidentally, a week ago, Kartik Aaryan’s newly launched project Naagzilla was announced for a release on the same day. And that’s not all. At the beginning of the year, Maddock Films had made an announcement that Bhediya 2, starring Varun Dhawan, would arrive in the same week.

However, it seems like Bhediya 2 won’t be able to make it in the said week as scheduled. A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Bhediya 2 is getting delayed. The makers, that is, the team of Dinesh Vijan at Maddock Films, are already looking at other dates.”

The source continued, “Three big films coming on the same day would have caused a lot of issues in screen sharing. But with Bhediya 2 getting pushed, Love & War and Naagzilla can arrive on the same day. Both belong to diverse genres and are star-studded biggies. Hence, it will surely excite the audience and pull them to cinemas.”

The source also said, “Love & War’s release date is not yet locked. A final call will be taken soon. August 14 is definitely at the top of their wish list. As for Naagzilla, the makers feel the date is apt as their film deals with snakes. With Nag Panchami falling on August 17, they want to arrive on August 14.”

Bhediya 2 is not the only horror comedy that has been postponed. As per recent reports, the other film of Maddock Horror Comedy Cinematic Universe, Shakti Shalini, starring Kiara Advani, has also been pushed. It won’t be arriving on December 31, 2025.

Speaking of Naagzilla, it is directed by Mrighdeep Singh Lamba and produced by Mahaveer Jain Films and Dharma Productions.

Also Read: Varun Dhawan announces Bhediya 2 in a DRAMATIC fashion at Jio Studios event; horror comedy to release in cinemas in 2025

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Kaantha: Makers of Dulquer Salmaan starrer drop first look of Samuthirakani on his birthday

After unveiling Dulquer Salmaan’s look earlier this year, the makers of Kaantha have now introduced another key character from the film. On the occasion of birthday of Samuthirakani on April 26, the team released his first look poster, adding to the building excitement around this much-anticipated drama.

Continuing the artistic monochrome theme first seen in Dulquer’s poster, Samuthirakani’s look too is steeped in shades of black and white, reinforcing the film’s commitment to authentically capturing the 1950s era. With a serious expression and period-appropriate attire, Samuthirakani’s character hints at complexity and depth, aligning perfectly with the layered storytelling promised by Kaantha. The posters so far have set a distinct tone — one of nostalgia, change, and intense human drama.

 

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With Dulquer Salmaan as the leading man, Kaantha is set against the backdrop of 1950s Madras, a period marked by tremendous social transformation as India navigated its early post-independence years. The film stars Bhagyashri Borse as the female lead and brings together a story of lives intertwined with hope, challenges, and societal evolution.

 

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Adding to the anticipation is the powerful collaboration behind the project. Kaantha marks the coming together of two iconic production houses: Spirit Media, headed by Rana Daggubati, and Wayfarer Films, helmed by Dulquer Salmaan. Spirit Media carries forward the rich cinematic legacy of D. Ramanaidu, Rana Daggubati’s grandfather, a titan in Indian film history. Meanwhile, Wayfarer Films continues the artistic lineage of Mammootty, one of Malayalam cinema’s greatest stars, through Dulquer’s vibrant creative vision. Together, they bring over a century of film heritage, promising a cinematic experience rich in narrative and craft.

The unveiling of Samuthirakani’s character poster has further ignited curiosity about the film’s narrative and the roles the characters will play in this era of change. While a full-fledged trailer is yet to be released, the early glimpses through these posters hint at an emotional and stirring story that will pay homage to a pivotal time in Indian history.

With its layered storytelling, evocative visuals, and a powerhouse team backing it, Kaantha is shaping up to be one of the most awaited films. Audiences can expect more updates, including trailers and release details, to follow in the coming months.

Also Read: Dulquer Salmaan shines in Kaantha’s first-look poster, celebrating 13 years in cinema

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Emraan Hashmi to begin shooting Awarapan 2 in July after two-year script refinement; says the film “picked up over time through the internet, YouTube, and Torrent”

Bollywood actor Emraan Hashmi has confirmed that shooting for Awarapan 2, the sequel to his 2007 cult classic Awarapan, will begin in July 2025. In an exclusive interview with News18 Showsha, Hashmi revealed that the script has been in development for two years, ensuring a robust continuation of the action-crime drama. The film is scheduled for a theatrical release on April 3, 2026.

Teaser Ignites Fan Excitement

Hashmi announced Awarapan 2 on his 46th birthday in March 2025, releasing a teaser that revisited iconic visuals from the original, including his character Shivam on a boat against a sunset skyline, paired with the beloved song ‘Tera Mera Rishta.’ The teaser, shared across social media, sparked a wave of enthusiasm among fans who have championed a sequel to the Mohit Suri-directed film, which starred Hashmi, Shriya Saran, Mrinalini Sharma, and Ashutosh Rana.

 

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Two Years of Script Refinement

“We’ve been working on the script for almost a couple of years,” Hashmi told News18. “We didn’t want to make a sequel just for the sake of it.” He stressed the team’s dedication to crafting a story that preserves the original’s emotional intensity and narrative depth. Hashmi recalled meeting a fan in Dubai with an Awarapan-inspired tattoo, underscoring the film’s lasting impact. “The public demand has been there for 15 years,” he said, crediting social media reels and fan engagement for driving the sequel’s development.

New Team, Same Legacy

Awarapan 2 will be directed by Nitin Kakkar, with the script penned by Bilal Siddiqi. Produced by Mukesh Bhatt under Vishesh Films, the sequel aims to honour the original’s legacy, which followed hitman Shivam’s quest for redemption, lauded for its gripping plot and Pritam’s evocative soundtrack. Hashmi noted the film’s unexpected rise: “Awarapan picked up over time through the internet, YouTube, and Torrent. That’s how it developed a huge fanbase.”

As preparations for Awarapan 2 ramp up, Hashmi is promoting his latest film, Ground Zero, which opened in theatres on 25 April 2025.

Also Read: Nandu strikes again! Akshay Kumar’s much-loved anti-smoking ad makes a COMEBACK with Emraan Hashmi’s Ground Zero

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Vedang Raina, a Kashmiri Pandit, on visiting Kashmir again, “Won’t let a bunch of cowards scare me”

The Pahalgam terrorist attack has left the entire country devastated. Vedang Raina is a Kashmiri Pandit who has his roots in the valley. He speaks to us about the tragedy and how it has affected him.

Vedang, as a Kashmiri Pandit, how do you react to the Pahalgam tragedy?
I take this very personally. I can’t explain how upsetting and angering this is to me. Kashmir is already a sensitive topic to me as a Kashmiri pandit. And this is just the saddest thing that could’ve happened. It can’t get any worse…or can it? Every time we say this is as inhuman as it can get. And then they surprise us again.

Do you visit Kashmir often?
My mom and dad are both Kashmiris and even then, I’ve been to Kashmir only once in my life, which was last year. I was in Srinagar, Pahalgam and Gulmarg. And it’s the most beautiful place I’ve ever been to. During my visit, I thought to myself, Kashmir is finally back on track, there’s so much progress and it feels safe to visit as a Pandit.

You were planning another visit?
Yes, I thought to myself how everyone should visit this place and experience what I just experienced and I decided to come back every year because it weirdly felt like home to me. I connected deeply.

And now?
And now it’s all out of the window. I can’t even imagine how all the locals must be feeling. The victims, their families. It’s heart wrenching. My blood boils. Kashmir just went back by twenty years because of a handful of low lives. Tourism will get hit. Thousands of lives will now suffer. Businesses will shut down.

How deep is your connection with Kashmir?
My grandfather’s generation left Kashmir. My parents visited Srinagar very often as there were many relatives there, before the exodus of course. All my life I had only heard stories about Kashmir till my visit last year with my family. They showed me around all the little places they visited in their childhood. It was bittersweet. We lost our homes. But it was also so satisfying to be back!

Would you go back now?
Of course, I would! I won’t let a bunch of cowards scare me. Kashmir is and will remain paradise.

Also Read: Hania Aamir, Mawra Hocane, Farhan Saeed and other Pakistani artists express condolences for Pahalgam victims

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Kunal Kapoor opens up on working with Siddharth Anand, Saif Ali Khan and Jaideep Ahlawat for the first time for Jewel Thief: “The people behind it were superb”

Saif Ali Khan, Jaideep Ahlawat, and Kunal Kapoor come together for the first time in the upcoming heist drama Jewel Thief: The Heist Begins. In the film, Kunal takes on an unexpected role as a tough police officer, going up against Saif’s smooth con-man character and Jaideep’s powerful crime lord. Recently, Kunal Kapoor spoke about his experience working with Saif, Jaideep, and collaborating with Siddharth Anand for the first time.

Kunal Kapoor said, “I unfortunately don’t have much screen time with them, since I’m the one doing all the chasing. But both of them are great guys to be around and work with. Besides being great fun, Saif is also a very generous co-star. While some stars think they need to demand attention, Saif just does his thing and people naturally gravitate towards him. And Jaideep has this wonderful ability to just be, both on and off the screen.”

Speaking about Siddharth Anand, Kunal added, “Sid is the master of this genre. People think this kind of film is easy to make, but in many aspects it’s tougher than doing a dramatic film. Which is why I wanted to be a part of this. Not only was it a fun script, but also the people behind it were superb.”

Jewel Thief: The Heist Begins is inching closer to its release date. It revolves around the story of a smooth-talking con-man who is hired by a powerful crime lord to steal the elusive diamond – The African Red Sun. Directed by Kookie Gulati and Robbie Grewal, Jewel Thief is backed by Siddharth Anand and is scheduled to stream on Netflix from April 25.

Also Read : ‘Lootera’ from Jewel Thief introduces Saif Ali Khan as a thief who steals jewels and hearts

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Aamir Khan skips Andaz Apna Apna special screening in light of Pahalgam terrorist attack: “I have been badly affected”

After the brutal and inhuman attack at Pahalgam, Aamir Khan could not bring himself to attend the special screening of his newly revamped 1994 cult comedy Andaz Apna Apna.

Speaking exclusively to this writer, Aamir said, “I was reading reports about what happened at Pahalgam in Kashmir. I have been badly affected by the senseless killing of innocents. I was in no state to go (to the preview). I will see it sometime later this week.”

Speaking on the initial rejection of Andaz Apna Apna, Aamir said, “Raj Santoshi and I were the only two people who believed in the film. We loved it. So, when it didn’t work, we were both sad. And then it goes on to become my biggest success on home entertainment!!! Both Raj and I were finally redeemed.”

Also Read: Andaz Apna Apna re-release: Rajkumar Santoshi recalls making the Salman Khan – Aamir Khan starrer; reveals, “Even the cameraman couldn’t stop laughing”

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