Bhagyashree thought Salman Khan was flirting with her on Maine Pyar Kiya set: “It just seemed like crossing the line” https://ift.tt/Op8NjwX

As Maine Pyar Kiya (1989) celebrated its 35th anniversary, the film’s iconic lead pair, Salman Khan and Bhagyashree, shared a special place in the hearts of fans. In a recent interview, Bhagyashree revisited her memories from the shoot and shared an amusing moment when she initially thought Salman Khan was flirting with her.

Bhagyashree Recalls an Unexpected Gesture During an interview with Kovid Gupta Films’ YouTube channel, Bhagyashree opened up about an incident while filming the song ‘Dil Deewana.’ She explained that she had been feeling quite lonely on set since she was away from her family. “We had to shoot ‘Dil Deewana,’ and suddenly Salman came and sat right next to me and started singing the song into my ear,” she recalled. She added that until that moment, Salman had always been a gentleman on set, making the gesture seem out of place.

“I couldn’t understand. Well, it just seemed like crossing the line over flirting, and I said, ‘Why is he doing this?’” Bhagyashree admitted she was puzzled by his actions at first, unsure of his intentions. The Unexpected Twist in the Story Things took an even more surprising turn when Salman Khan, sensing her confusion, took her aside. Bhagyashree recounted, “He finally took me to the side and said, ‘I know!’ I was like really? He said, ‘I know who you are in love with.'” Salman then revealed he knew about her relationship with a person named Himalaya, which left Bhagyashree in shock. “He said, ‘I know about Himalaya. Why don’t you call him here?’ I was like, ‘Oh my god! This can’t be happening,’” Bhagyashree laughed, remembering the moment. A Timeless Film and Unforgettable Chemistry Sooraj Barjatya’s Maine Pyar Kiya became one of Bollywood’s most beloved films upon its release. After 35 years, Maine Pyar Kiya was re-released in theatres on August 23, 2024, to celebrate its legacy. The film also starred a stellar supporting cast, including Alok Nath, Mohnish Bahl, Reema Lagoo, Rajeev Verma, and Ajit Vachani, all of whom contributed to the film's widespread popularity.

Also Read: Salman Khan’s signing amount skyrocketed from Rs 5,000 to Rs 5 lakhs after Maine Pyar Kiya, reveals director Lawrence D’Souza

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Deepika Padukone celebrates 10 years of Live Love Laugh Foundation, shares personal journey in destigmatizing mental illness, watch https://ift.tt/1la0RKc

Bollywood superstar Deepika Padukone, a long-time advocate for mental health awareness, recently marked a significant milestone in her personal and professional life. On the occasion of her foundation Live Love Laugh (LLL) completing 10 years, Deepika took to Instagram to reflect on her journey towards raising awareness about mental illness and fighting its stigma.

A Decade of Advocacy and Change In a heartfelt post, Deepika shared a personal message about the very first step she took toward committing her life to the cause of mental health. “10 years ago, on this day, I took my very first step towards committing the rest of my life towards destigmatising mental illness and creating awareness about the importance of mental health,” she wrote.

As she marked the anniversary of LLL, Deepika expressed gratitude for the progress made and her continued commitment to the cause. She concluded her post with a hopeful message, saying, “As I reflect on and celebrate the journey thus far, I look forward to the next chapter in my mission… #10YearsOfLLL.”

 

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Live Love Laugh Foundation’s Impact

Launched in 2015, Live Love Laugh was founded by Deepika Padukone to offer support, create awareness, and provide resources for those affected by mental illness. The foundation aims to break the silence around mental health, educate the public, and offer emotional support to individuals going through mental health challenges. Deepika’s personal battle with depression, which she openly discussed in 2015, has also played a pivotal role in encouraging others to seek help. Her courage in sharing her story has inspired countless individuals to confront their mental health challenges and reach out for support.

Also Read: Deepika Padukone drops new collection for ‘Live Love Laugh’ foundation: Designer dress, stilettos and more!

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Anurag Kashyap REVEALS he has “detached” himself from Kennedy as Rahul Bhat-Sunny Leone starrer is yet to release: “I don’t want it to become like Black Friday” https://ift.tt/fLIO9D5

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, known for his bold and unconventional storytelling, has recently opened up about the delays surrounding the release of his film Kennedy. Despite its premiere at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, the movie has yet to see the light of day. In a candid interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, Kashyap shared his frustration over the situation and revealed that multiple projects, including Kennedy, are stuck in limbo.

Five of Anurag Kashyap's Films Still Unreleased Kashyap, a pioneer in Indian cinema, revealed that five of his films are currently awaiting release. Among them, Kennedy remains the most notable, as it was well-received at international film festivals but still remains unreleased in India. Speaking about the film's current status, Kashyap stated, “I have made five films that are lying unreleased. Where is Kennedy? And whose hands is Kennedy in? It’s in the hands of some people who’ve never made films before.” He expressed frustration over the fact that the film, which generated significant buzz at Cannes, is still caught up in a system driven by profit rather than passion for cinema. The Profit-Driven Film Industry According to Kashyap, the current state of the Indian film industry is preventing creative films like Kennedy from seeing the light of day. “People who made Kennedy in the studio are all gone. And now, the people who are there, the directive given to them is to up the share prices, generate profits, cost recovery… That’s all there is. Nobody is interested in films,” Kashyap lamented.

Kashyap also expressed his concern about the industry’s reluctance to take risks, which he believes has crippled the creative ecosystem. He contrasted this with the South Indian film industry, where filmmakers like Sukumar have the freedom to create bold narratives, such as Pushpa. “In the South, they invest in filmmakers and empower them to make films. Here, everyone is trying to create a universe. Do they understand their own universe, and how minuscule they are in it?” he remarked. Detaching from Kennedy The filmmaker also spoke about his emotional detachment from Kennedy, acknowledging the impact of the delays on his mental well-being. Kashyap explained, “I’ve detached myself from Kennedy, because I don’t want it to become like Black Friday. I will not let anything pull me down again in life…” He also admitted to feeling disappointed by the industry’s unwillingness to take creative risks but stated that he no longer had the energy to fight against the system. “I’ve had my fights, but you can’t fight a wall. I don’t have the energy…” he said. A Changing Perspective on the Industry Despite the challenges, Kashyap remains committed to his craft. However, his disillusionment with the current state of the industry has led him to contemplate a move out of Mumbai. He expressed his dissatisfaction with what he’s witnessing around him and hinted at relocating to regain his sense of purpose and peace. “I’m very disgusted by some people, but let them be,” Kashyap said, signaling that he’s ready to leave behind the toxic aspects of the industry in pursuit of personal growth.

Also Read: Anurag Kashyap calls Hindi film industry “Desperate” for blockbusters, praises Malayalam cinema’s humble approach: “There was zero one-upmanship among the actors”

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From Alia Bhatt-Ranbir Kapoor to Shraddha Kapoor, Kriti Sanon and others; here’s how Bollywood rings in the New Year https://ift.tt/rAmt4ke

As the curtains close on 2024, Bollywood's biggest names have lit up social media with their heartfelt posts and dazzling celebrations. From emotional year-end reflections to glamorous glimpses of New Year’s Eve festivities, these posts perfectly blend nostalgia, gratitude, and excitement for what lies ahead.

This past year has been monumental for many stars, with personal milestones, box-office blockbusters, and cherished moments that made their way into fans' hearts. As they bid goodbye to 2024, each post radiates positivity and promises to embrace 2025 with open arms. From snowy retreats to tropical getaways, from quiet meditations to energetic dance parties, each star’s New Year vibe was unique yet inspiring. Scroll down to see how your favorite celebrities wrapped up the year and welcomed a brand-new chapter in style. Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor celebrate New Year's eve with family

 

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Shraddha Kapoor ends 2024 with hilarious question

 

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Kriti Sanon shares dump featuring "moments of 2024 that didn’t make it to the gram"

 

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Ananya Panday starts "2025 with only love"

 

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Kajol calls 2024 "Better than a movie ending"

 

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Ajay Devgn builds a little museum to cope with "year-end feelings"

 

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Farah Khan shares FIRST pic of 2025 and its adorable!

 

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Also Read: Fashion Roundup 2024: From Vicky Kaushal to Sidhant Gupta to Ishan Khatter; Bollywood’s best-dressed men who redefined style! 

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#2024Recap: 12 Trendsetters of the Year – Aamir Khan’s stint with Laapataa Ladies, Bhushan Kumar took on Singham Again, Vicky Kaushal’s killer moves in ‘Tauba Tauba’, Vikrant Massey’s bold sabbatical plan… https://ift.tt/0dRzUr9

Bollywood Hungama, in this special report, brings to you the twelve trendsetters of the year who rocked the shows with their achievements.

1. Bhushan Kumar The head honcho of T-Series had multiple releases this year, some of which were quite significant. Srikanth defied expectations and was the sleeper hit of the year. Savi was a big success on Netflix. Khel Khel Mein also trended well on OTT due to very positive word of mouth. But his biggest achievement was that he didn’t budge and brought Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 on Diwali despite the clash with Singham Again. The risk paid off as Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 collected more than the cop universe film, shocking one and all. He also unveiled the Sonu Nigam version of ‘Mere Dholna’ after the film was out and hence, no one got a whiff of the unexpected twist in the climax.

2. Dinesh Vijan The track record of the Maddock Films head honcho went on another level as all three of his films collected more than expected. Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya was the first hit of 2024. Munjya was released with minimal expectations but went on to cross the Rs. 100 crores mark. Stree 2, meanwhile, is now the biggest Bollywood grosser of all time. He marketed these films extensively and also ensured they all had hit music and appealing trailers. These factors played a big role in creating awareness as well as excitement for his products.

3. Jio Studios This production house, headed by Jyoti Deshpande, also had a dream year. They backed films of diverse genres like Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, Article 370, Laapataa Ladies, Shaitaan, Stree 2, Singham Again, etc. and except for Baby John, all of them were huge successes. The first four films released within 5 weeks and yet, the team, headed by Jyoti Deshpande, meticulously planned and marketed them well.

4. PVR Inox Pictures The multiplex chain re-released Rockstar (2011) as an experiment. It worked and how. It gave a huge boost to the re-release trend and contributed nearly Rs. 70 crores to the box office this year.

5. Aanand L Rai, Sohum Shah Many films were re-released in 2024 but the re-release of Tumbbad stood out. The makers ensured that the 2018 period fantasy film is no longer available on OTT. They spent a bomb marketing a film as if it’s a fresh release. The efforts paid dividends as Tumbbad managed to collect more than Rs. 30 crores and was the biggest re-release grosser of the year.

6. Kiran Rao, Aamir Khan Kiran Rao and Aamir Khan used their marketing acumen to promote their labour of love, Laapataa Ladies, not just in India but across the world. They also smartly navigated questions about their divorce.

7. Vicky Kaushal Vicky Kaushal’s dance in ‘Tauba Tauba’ created a rage and it arguably became the song of the year. It belonged to the film Bad Newz, which opened bigger than expected thanks to the dance number and Vicky’s killer moves.

8. Payal Kapadia She became a household name when she brought historic honour for India through her film All We Imagine As Light.

9. Sharvari She became a rising star this year as she had three releases in a span of nearly two months. It began with Munjya, where her performance was appreciated but she got talked about more for her rocking track ‘Taras’. In the controversial Netflix film Maharaja, she showed her cute and comic side, which was appreciated. In Vedaa, she was in a diametrically opposite role – raw and gritty – and for many, she was the best part about the film.

10. Shalini Passi Several viewers felt that she stole the show from all the other women in Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives with her grace, poise, clothes and unique outlook towards life.

11. Tamannaah Bhatia Tamannaah Bhatia soared the temperatures with ‘Aaj Ki Raat’, a song that went viral on Reels and was recreated by thousands of people across the world. It proved yet again how she continues to have a tremendous pull for the audience.

13. Vikrant Massey The actor scared everyone for 24 hours when it felt like he’s all set to retire from acting. After he clarified that he’s taking a sabbatical, he was praised and it helped throw a light on an important aspect – that it’s okay to pause and spend time with your loved one, even when you are at the prime of your career.

Also Read: #2024Recap: 19 most EMBARRASSING scenes and dialogues in Bollywood films this year

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Shah Rukh Khan REACTS to PM Narendra Modi’s announcement of WAVES 2025, calls it “occasion that champions and fosters creativity”: “It is with great anticipation that I look forward to” https://ift.tt/HNvC4So

Actor Shah Rukh Khan has commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for the World Audio Visual Entertainment (WAVES) Summit 2025, emphasizing its potential to elevate India’s position in the global media and entertainment sector. Taking to social media platform X, the actor expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative and its contribution to fostering creativity and celebrating the industry’s role in the economy.

Shah Rukh Khan’s Statement Reacting to PM Modi’s announcement, Shah Rukh Khan wrote, “It is with great anticipation that I look forward to WAVES—a film and entertainment world summit—to be held in our country itself. An occasion that celebrates our industry and acknowledges the role it plays in the Indian economy as well as its strength as a soft power... and above all, an occasion that champions and fosters creativity.”

It is with great anticipation that I look forward to WAVES - a film and entertainment world summit - to be held in our country itself. An occasion that celebrates our industry and acknowledges the role it plays in the Indian economy as well as its strength as a soft power… and… https://t.co/QE52Rs11NZ — Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) December 30, 2024

The actor’s comments align with the sentiments shared by PM Modi, who described the WAVES Summit as a pivotal moment for India’s creative landscape. PM Modi’s Announcement During the 117th episode of his radio program ‘Mann Ki Baat’ on Sunday, Prime Minister Modi officially announced the WAVES Summit. He stated, “Next year, for the first time, the World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit, i.e., WAVES, is going to be organised in our country. At the WAVES Summit, giants from the media and entertainment industry and people from the creative world will come to India. This summit is an important step towards making India a hub of global content creation.”

PM Modi also highlighted the involvement of young creators, further underscoring India’s focus on innovation and talent development.

Also Read: PM Narendra Modi announces World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit; deets inside!

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Asha Bhosle brings her charm to ‘Tauba Tauba,’ grooves to Vicky Kaushal’s dance steps; singer Karan Aujla REACTS https://ift.tt/kdlXSeb

Legendary singer Asha Bhosle took to the stage and delivered a captivating performance of Karan Aujla’s hit song ‘Tauba Tauba’ from the film Bad Newz. The song, which features Vicky Kaushal and Triptii Dimri, has been a chart-topping success, and Bhosle’s rendition added a layer of charm that only she could bring.

Fans were further amazed when she not only sang the track with her signature grace but also matched Vicky Kaushal’s viral dance steps from the song’s music video. The performance, captured in a viral Instagram video, shows Bhosle grooving to the music, executing Kaushal's now-iconic hook step with effortless style. Her natural flair and magnetic stage presence made for a truly unforgettable moment. Karan Aujla’s Emotional Reaction The song's composer and writer, Karan Aujla, was quick to react to the video, sharing his admiration for Asha Bhosle's performance on Instagram. He called the moment “iconic” and expressed his gratitude.

 

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In his Instagram stories, Aujla wrote, “@asha.bhosle ji, The living Goddess of music, just performed Tauba Tauba… a song written by a kid that grew up in a small village, with no music background and no knowledge of musical instruments.” He went on to reflect on the significance of the moment, saying, “This song has received a lot of love and recognition amongst not only fans but also music artists, but this moment is truly iconic and one I will never forget. I am truly blessed and thankful. This has really inspired me to keep giving you all such melodies and create more memories together."

Aujla also shared his pride in the song's success, adding, “I wrote it at 27. She sang it at 91 better than me.”

Tauba Tauba: The Hit Song from Bad Newz ‘Tauba Tauba’ is featured in the film Bad Newz, which stars Vicky Kaushal, Triptii Dimri, and Ammy Virk. The track became an instant hit thanks to its catchy lyrics, Kaushal’s infectious grooves, and Dimri’s on-screen charisma. The song was composed and written by Karan Aujla and has since been embraced by fans for its infectious energy and memorable hook.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Karan Aujla talks about his EXCITING multi-city India tour and whether he’ll collaborate with Vicky Kaushal after ‘Tauba Tauba’: “It has to do justice to our artistry”; also adds, “I make songs for hearts, NOT for Instagram; if someone says ‘This hook will work on reels’, I’m clear…”

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Forget Y2K! Bollywood’s REAL crisis in 1999 was Y3K and that it was just as unfixable - A hilarious throwback https://ift.tt/5qdyjiQ

The world in December 1999 had one big question on its mind: “Will everything collapse when the clock strikes midnight on January 1, 2000?” This wasn’t some doomsday prophecy but the infamous Y2K bug - a coding shortcut gone horribly wrong. You see, back in the day, programmers saved precious computer memory by using two digits to represent the year (e.g., ‘99’ for 1999). Little did they know that when the year turned to ‘00,’ computers might think it was 1900. Banks could crash, planes might drop from the sky, and toasters - well, who knows what havoc they’d wreak?

But while the globe worried about this apocalyptic bug, Bollywood had its own bugbear to wrestle with, one hilariously dubbed “Y3K.” What’s that, you ask? Was Bollywood building its own millennium problem? Not quite. Y3K stood for “Why 3 Khans?”- a witty dig at the industry’s total obsession with Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, and Shah Rukh Khan.

The Khan-querors of Bollywood

By the late 1990s, these three actors weren’t just stars - they were practically a Bollywood Holy Trinity. Aamir was the “Perfectionist” who wouldn’t touch a script unless it was soaked in originality. Salman was the “Mass King” who could make even a shirtless song seem like fine art (remember O O Jaane Jaana?). And Shah Rukh? Well, he wasn’t called the “King of Romance” for nothing - this man made spreading arms a national sport.

Together, the Khans had the Midas touch. Anything their names were attached to turned into box office gold, and the music industry followed suit. An anonymous producer summed it up with a mix of frustration and wit: "The world is panicking about Y2K, but here in Bollywood, we’ve got Y3K. Today, if you announce a film with any of the Khans, music companies will fight like cats over a fish to grab the rights, and distributors will offer you their kidneys for a deal. But if your film doesn’t have one of them? Nobody even cares who your music director is!”

Sone Ki Khaan or Industry Monotony?

The Khans were, as this producer put it, Bollywood’s “sone ki khaan” (goldmine). But there’s a catch: "All that glitters is not gold! We’ve become so blinded by their stardom that we’re ignoring fresh talent and innovative scripts. It’s like Bollywood’s GPS is permanently stuck on three destinations: Aamir Nagar, Salman Chowk, and Shah Rukh Lane.”

This Khan fever was especially evident in the music industry. A Khan-starrer’s soundtrack would sell out even before the first note was composed. But for a non-Khan film? No matter how brilliant the tunes, music companies would think twice before touching it with a ten-foot pole.

The Y3K Punchline

"Why 3 Khans?” wasn’t just a question; it was a punchline that highlighted Bollywood’s over-reliance on its star power. The producer quipped, "It’s like the film industry is stuck on a diet of dal-chawal. Sure, it’s comforting, but what about trying some spicy biryani or tangy chaat for a change?"

While the trio deserved credit for their consistency and charm, this monopoly raised a larger issue: Was Bollywood stifling creativity by putting all its eggs in the Khan basket?

Did Bollywood Fix Y3K?

The Khans didn’t just survive the so-called Y3K - they flourished. As the new millennium unfolded, they continued to dominate, adapt, and redefine stardom. But the concerns raised in December 1999 remain relevant even today. The star-driven dynamics of Bollywood still dictate much of its decision-making.

As for the world, Y2K turned out to be a damp squib, thanks to diligent programmers. But Bollywood’s Y3K? That’s something the industry hasn’t entirely debugged. And who’s complaining, really? After all, the Khans are still making audiences swoon, laugh, and dance like it’s 1999.

Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan returns after a family vacation in Alibaug; his pet dog captures attention in viral videos

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Sharvari wraps up last working day of 2024 on Alpha set: “Going to work has been my biggest blessing” https://ift.tt/MO326xw

Bollywood actress Sharvari wrapped up her final working day of 2024 on a high note, filming an action sequence for her upcoming movie Alpha. The actress took to her Instagram Stories on Sunday, sharing a behind-the-scenes image from the set, where she was seen donning a harness.

Sharvari wrote alongside the photo, “Harness-ing my last working day of 2024 energy #Alpha. Grateful for each working day of 24, A year that has particularly been a testing one.. Going to work has been my biggest blessing; it has kept me motivated.”

The actress’s post reflects both her gratitude and the intense journey she has had throughout the year. As 2024 comes to a close, Sharvari looks back on a year full of challenges, with her work in Alpha being a significant source of motivation and accomplishment.

Alpha: A Groundbreaking Film in the YRF Spy-Universe Alpha is a key addition to the YRF spy-universe, produced by Aditya Chopra. Directed by Shiv Rawail, known for his work on The Railway Men, Alpha is set to break new ground as the first female-led film in the highly successful franchise.

The film also stars Alia Bhatt and Anil Kapoor, both of whom bring their star power to this high-octane spy thriller. The title of the movie was revealed through a special video in which Alia Bhatt's voice introduces the concept. She says, “Greek alphabet ka sabse pehla akshar. Aur humare program ka motive, sabse pehle, sabse tez, sabse veer. Dhyaan se dekho toh har sheher mein ek jungle hai. Aur jungle mein hamesha Raj karega Alpha.” (The 1st letter of the Greek alphabet, and the motive of our program. The first, the fastest, and the bravest of all. Look carefully, you will find a jungle in each city. And the Alpha will always rule the jungle.)

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8zqfxQcz7kM?si=sd-csZDBADHKD1m9" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe> The Future of the YRF Spy-Universe Alpha is the latest addition to the expanding YRF spy-universe, a franchise that includes box-office hits like Ek Tha Tiger, Tiger Zinda Hai, War, Pathaan, and Tiger 3. With upcoming films like War 2, starring Hrithik Roshan and NTR Jr., as well as sequels to Pathaan and Tiger, the spy-universe continues to build excitement among fans.

Also Read: Ananya Panday, Sharvari Wagh, and Anushka Sen: Young divas redefining red carpet glamour

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Anurag Kashyap rejected Ravi Kishan for Gangs of Wasseypur due to “Eccentric Demands,” reveals actor as he speaks on missing out on cult-classic Film https://ift.tt/mUJWpnf

Popular actor and politician Ravi Kishan recently shared details about why he wasn’t part of Anurag Kashyap’s acclaimed film Gangs of Wasseypur. Speaking in an interview with Shubhankar Mishra on YouTube, Ravi Kishan revealed that he was considered for a role in the film but ultimately lost out due to rumors about his eccentric lifestyle.

What Did Ravi Kishan Say About Milk Baths? During the interview, Ravi Kishan admitted that he used to bathe with milk. “I used to bathe in milk. I used to enjoy it. Somebody told this to Anurag Kashyap. I am an eccentric; that’s why I’m an artist. If I was a normal person, I would be working in an office, carrying a tiffin box to work,” he said. Why Did Anurag Kashyap Not Cast Ravi Kishan? Ravi Kishan explained that while some rumors about him were true, others weren’t. He revealed, "Anurag said that he didn’t have the budget for my demands, and that’s why I lost the film. Somebody spread some other rumors about me as well.” Reflecting on the missed opportunity, he said, “Everyone in that movie broke out afterwards.”

Despite missing out on Gangs of Wasseypur, Ravi Kishan later collaborated with Anurag Kashyap in the film Mukkabaaz. However, their relationship grew tense after Ravi Kishan, now a politician, took a strong stance against drug abuse in Parliament. What Did Anurag Kashyap Say About Ravi Kishan? In an interview with journalist Faye D’Souza, Anurag Kashyap alleged that Ravi Kishan was no stranger to cannabis use in the past. “For the longest period of his time, he has been somebody who has used weed. Everybody knows it. The whole world knows. He might have quit now that he has become a minister; he might have cleaned up,” Kashyap remarked.

Also Read: Ravi Kishan on Laapataa Ladies going to the Oscars, “I ate 160 paans in my first paan-India film”

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#2024Recap: 9 Trends of 2024 we are FED UP of and don’t want to see in 2025 – Self-buying of tickets, hypocrisy of the so-called intellectuals, giving away important scenes in the trailer… https://ift.tt/T9DxO5N

In this special feature, Bollywood Hungama lists 8 trends that we are fed up with and would not like to see again in 2025.

1. Corporate booking, self-buying tickets At one point, it was easy for makers to buy tickets of their own films and put a ‘House Full’ board outside the theatre.; not many would know the truth. But in today’s BookMyShow era, it is easy for a layman to expose the makers. The makers, instead of booking a certain number of tickets in every show, prefer to buy all tickets of a single show. Hence, eyebrows and questions are bound to be raised when a 4:00 pm is ‘sold out’ while the 3:30 pm and 4:30 pm shows of the same film are running with 5% occupancy.

2. Niche films made at high costs and bombing at the box office One should have the right to make niche films if it suits their sensibilities and interest levels. But to spend a bomb into making them is just not done, especially at a time when the industry is struggling to reduce losses and also at a time when such films don’t attract the same audience as before.

3. Hypocrisy of the so-called intellectuals It’s common to see certain people, who claim to be intelligentsia, ranting on the internet about how certain films, which are not too mainstream, flop in the cinemas. They are also angry at mainstream films, which they consider trash, earning big bucks. Dig deeper and one realizes that most of these people themselves don’t watch these niche and unconventional films in cinemas. But they expect the rest of the audience to spend money on these films and criticize them when they don’t! Their excuses are usually ready – they couldn’t watch those movies as they didn’t have time, were too tired after a tiring week, tickets were expensive etc. If that’s the case, they should shut their mouth and instead, walk the talk. If they are fans of independent cinema, they need to show their support to them. They should also learn from fans of ‘trashy’ masala films. An Allu Arjun fanboy is not going to skip watching Pushpa 2. He’ll watch it anyhow and if he’s unable to do so on the weekend, he’ll view it later. But he won’t miss it for anything. That’s the reason why Pushpa 2 was collecting more than Rs. 40 crores even on weekdays.

4. Too many re-releases It’s great to see older classics getting a release in cinemas. But there’s a fear that a saturation point will soon be reached, especially as several films are being re-released. Many of them don’t have a recall value and yet, are being put up in cinemas, only for the audience to give them a cold shoulder.

5. Credit war Filmmaking is a team work and when certain actors try to steal credit for the success, it’s unfair and also in bad taste.

6. Ugly clashes by influencers to bring down rival film The internet can be an ugly place during the release of a big film. Certain fans of actors go all out to bring down a film, starring a ‘rival star’. At times, influencers are paid to do so by the actor’s team.

7. Bad release strategies 2024 was a year when there were no major releases from mid-April to May-end and from mid-August to mid-October. On the other hand, as many as three films were released on Independence Day, and two of them (Vedaa, Khel Khel Mein) were affected due to the dominance of the third one (Stree 2). November 1 saw the release of Singham Again and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 followed by no big release for the whole month.

8. Events starting 2 hours late Earlier, promotional events would start with a delay of 1 hour. This year, the organizers just didn’t care and would start events 2 or 3 hours late. There’s a lot of anger among the media over this aspect and if things are not corrected in time, it can lead to issues in 2025. Suriya faced the ire of the photographers at Kanguva’s event. The South star was embarrassed and had to apologize for his delay.

9. Giving away important scenes in the trailer Singham Again’s trailer was nearly 5 minutes long and showed entry scenes and even important action sequences of the climax. As a result, the audience didn’t feel as euphoric as they should have when they saw the film as they knew what was in store. Even Vanvaas trailer ended up showing significant moments in the promo and we all knew what was going to unfold in the first half of the film.

Also Read: #2024Recap: A to Z of Bollywood in 2024: C for Corporate Booking, J for Joker, K for Kidnapping, U for Unnecessary clashes and more…

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Gurinder Chadha on meeting Dr. Manmohan Singh, “He said, ‘It is my pleasure to meet you’, I was so touched” https://ift.tt/yKaq1jT

Filmmaker Gurinder Chadha, known for her works like Bend It Like Beckham, Bride And Prejudice, Viceroy’s House and others, recalled her experience of meeting Dr Manmohan Singh, India’s former Prime Minister who passed away recently, in an interview with us.

When did you first become associated with Dr. Manmohan Singh and his wife?

I had met his wife Gursharan (Kaur) at the G20 Summit at Downing Street, where I had been invited by Gordon Brown’s wife Sarah and we struck up a friendship. I had also met (Barack) Obama there with Michel Obama and Michelle Obama. It was a great evening.

And you kept in touch with Mrs Manmohan Singh?

Yes, we stayed in touch. She said when you’re in Delhi, please come and visit us. I didn’t get to meet Manmohan Singh at Downing Street. That day he was very busy. I think I met him briefly. But the next time when I was in Delhi during the making of my film Viceroy’s House, I went to meet Mrs Singh at the Prime Minister’s residence and we had lovely tea and we talked a lot about the Partition and our family history and her husband and just the whole world of Indian politics.

You didn’t meet Manmohan Singhji until this point?

Then I thought I would be leaving shortly but she kept saying to me, ‘Just stay a little longer , have another cup of tea’ … and then I didn’t realise until later there had been a whole plan where Mr Singh was trying to leave work to come home to meet me.

So Mrs Singh was holding you back in the hope that the Prime Minister would be able to meet you?

Yes, he really wanted to meet me and I didn’t realise that until finally when, as Mrs Singh and I sat there having tea, there was this noise at the gate and all these official cars came in.

What was your reaction on seeing him?

I was flabbergasted to meet PM Manmohan Singh, because I knew just how much he meant to all my family all my uncles, aunts…. everybody because he was from where we were from pre-Partition and part of our baradari.

How was your meeting with PM Singh?

I said, ‘What a wonderful surprise to actually meet you’. And he said to me, ‘No no, the pleasure is mine…you are one of the stars of our baradari and you have done so much for us globally… it is my pleasure to meet you.’ I was so touched.

What was your impression of Manmohan Singhji?

Humble…. humble man he was. Then we sat down. We had some more tea and then we talked about British India and what that was like… talked about my work’s impact on the diasporic India perspective on the world… and he said he was very proud of me and I felt terribly honoured and moved. I really did.

What is his contribution to Independent India?

I think what he did for India silently, quietly in terms of the economic boom of India is phenomenal. We must remember that at this time.

Also Read: Hansal Mehta offers heartfelt apology to Dr. Manmohan Singh for being a part of The Accidental Prime Minister: “It is a regret I will carry with a very heavy heart”

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Judwaa to Sikandar: Salman Khan and Sajid Nadiadwala celebrate three decades of unbreakable friendship with this photo https://ift.tt/WNnMyp2

Bollywood’s iconic duo, actor Salman Khan and producer Sajid Nadiadwala, have given fans a reason to reminisce and celebrate as Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment has posted a heartfelt "then-and-now" picture of their enduring friendship. Spanning nearly three decades, their bond is a proof of the unwavering support, shared triumphs, and a deep camaraderie beyond the showbiz.

Sharing a picture of ‘then and now’, Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment wrote, “Then and  Now, some things really never change. The journey of #Sikandar begins with all your love! Thank you for the immense support you have shown for the #SikandarTeaser. We’re beyond grateful! Watch the teaser now only on YouTube!”

 

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From their early collaborations to their latest ventures, Salman and Sajid have had a memorable cinematic partnership with some of Bollywood’s most beloved blockbusters, beginning with Jeet (1996) then the evergreen comedy Judwaa (1997). They followed it up with Har Dil Jo Pyaar Karega (2000) and then a smashing hit with Mujhse Shaadi Karogi (2004), and the action-packed Kick (2014), which set new benchmarks at the box office. Now, their upcoming film Sikandar promises to continue the legacy, with trade analysts already predicting record-breaking numbers.

Sources reveal that Sajid has always been a source of strength for Salman during challenging times, standing by him with steadfast loyalty. Similarly, Salman has always believed in Sajid’s vision, collaborating on his projects with utmost faith as they set a example of true friendship that they cherish.

Coming to the magnum opus Sikandar, after unveiling its first look poster, the makers dropped the teaser a day after Salman Khan’s birthday much to the excitement of fans. Directed by A R Murugadoss, Sikandar will explore the chemistry of Salman Khan with Rashmika Mandanna for the first time and will also feature Kajal Aggarwal, Prateik Patil Babbar, among others in key roles. It is scheduled to release in Eid 2025 as it promises to be a cinematic spectacle as it aims to blend action, drama, and emotion.

Also Read: Sikandar’s teaser delay: The UNTOLD story on how Salman Khan and Sajid Nadiadwala prioritized respect over celebration on his birthday amid national mourning

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Mika Singh opened up about his ‘horrible experience’ of turning producer for a Bipasha Basu, Karan Singh Grover starrer web-series; says, “They created a lot of drama” https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Mika-Singh-opened-up-about-his-‘horrible-experience-of-turning-producer-620.jpg

Mika Singh, who is best known for his music and singing chops, attempted to experiment by turning producer. The singer confessed that despite many advising him against entering the world of production, Mika wanted to give a try and decided to start with a web-series starring Karan Singh Grover and Bipasha Basu titled Dangerous. However, the musician claimed that it was a ‘horrible’ experience and said that the actors created a lot of drama.

During an interaction with KADAK YouTube channel, Mika Singh shared his experience of turning producer and revealed that his initial plan was to only cast Karan Singh Grover along with a fresh face. “I wanted to cast Karan Singh Grover and a newcomer girl so that the project remains under budget, and we make something nice, but Bipasha Basu jumped into it and was like, ‘We can both be part of this series’. They didn’t exceed the budget, but the experience was horrible,” he said during the interview.

He further elaborated on why the experience turned into a nightmare and stated that the schedule was extended leading to financial loss. “I took a team of 50 to London for a month-long schedule. However, it was extended to two months. Karan and Bipasha created a lot of drama. They were a married couple, so I booked a single room for them. But, they were like, ‘No, we need our separate rooms.’ I didn’t understand the logic. They then demanded to moved to a different hotel. We did that as well,” he added.

Talking about the delay, Mika continued, “Later, when we were shooting a stunt scene, Karan Singh Grover fractured his leg. They even created issues while dubbing the film. They were giving excuses that they have sore throats and other things. I couldn’t understand the drama, especially when they were paid for their work.”

The singer was merely surprised when the real-life husband wife created issues about onscreen kissing. “They are husband and wife, and yet they created drama around kissing each other on screen,” he expressed.

While deciding that he wouldn’t produce any shows further, the musician couldn’t help but wonder about the situation of small-time producers. “These stars fall on the feet of big producers like Dharma Productions and Yash Raj Films and keep praising them for even the tiniest roles, but their attitude changes when it comes to smaller producers. Aren’t we also spending money?” he questioned.

In the same interview, Mika Singh also insisted that while he intends on not continuing to produce, he thanked Akshay Kumar and Salman Khan for giving him sound advice about production and why it wasn’t the right choice for Singh.

Also Read: Mika Singh recalls pulling Javed Akhtar’s ear to get his attention: “I want him to notice me and praise my work, but he…”

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#2024Recap: A to Z of Bollywood in 2024: C for Corporate Booking, J for Joker, K for Kidnapping, U for Unnecessary clashes and more… https://ift.tt/ibJO8tY

Like any other year, 2024 was a roller-coaster ride filled with some significant, pleasantly surprising as well as astonishing events that took place and the manner in which some films performed at the box office. In a bid to understand this tumultuous and exciting year, we at Bollywood Hungama, on a lighter note, decided to redevelop the English alphabets from A-Z keeping in mind the important events of the year.

A – Alamzeb

This character of Stree 2,  was in the news for the wrong reasons for several weeks. B – Baba Siddique

The untimely demise of the much-loved politician sent shockwaves and gripped the industry in a wave of fear. C – Corporate Booking

This term was widely used throughout the year by netizens to diss rival fans and to prove that the collections of their favourite star’s films are not organic. D – Diljit Dosanjh

The performer was constantly in the news first for Amar Singh Chamkila and for the happenings during his India concerts. E – Extreme box office collections

On one hand, Stree 2, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 and Munjya over-performed at the box office while films like Indian 2, Kanguva, Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha, Ulajh, Yudhra, I Want To Talk etc. sank without a trace. F – Fighter

The first big film of 2024 underperformed at the ticket window but was loved for its treatment, style and of course, Hrithik Roshan. G – Grand Prix

All We Imagine As Light became the first Indian film to win this honour at Cannes, leading to jubilation in the country. H – Horror Comedy

The genre was the most favourite of the viewers, as evident by the collections of these films. I – IC 814

The web series led to a controversy over the names of the terrorists. Many felt that it was one of the most pointless controversies to rock the industry. J – Joker

The word gave a lot of pain to many this year, first to Prabhas fans after Arshad Warsi’s comment and later to fans of Joker who were looking forward to the sequel. K – Kidnapping

Sunil Pal and Mushtaq Khan’s experiences left the industry scared and they decided to take necessary caution. L – Laapataa Ladies

The film which is loved by everyone and made India proud. M – Maddock Films

All the films made by this production house worked wonders at the box office, which makes Dinesh Vijan the man with the golden touch. N – Never-before-seen avatars

Ajay Devgn moved viewers like never before, in Maidaan. Kartik Aaryan rocked the show with his new avatars like Chandu Champaion and the climax of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. Varun Dhawan was superb in a masala role in Baby John. O – Oscar

The debate over whether Laapataa Ladies or All We Imagine As Light was the ideal film to be sent to the Academy Awards made Oscar a hot topic this year. P – Poonam Pandey

The actress was slammed from all quarters for claiming that she is no more. Q – Quiet a year for Kriti Sanon

The actress bounced back in 2024 with back-to-back hits R – Rashmika Mandanna

Her 2023 blockbuster Animal continued to earn well in 2024. She ended the year with a rocking performance in Pushpa 2. She signed some interesting films, proving that she’s certainly an actress to watch out for. S – Six Hundred Crores, Stampede

While Allu Arjun cheered as Pushpa 2 crossed Rs. 600 crore mark in Hindi, he also faced a tough time as he was blamed for the stampede outside a theatre in Hyderabad, leading to the death of a woman. T – Tauba Tauba, Taras, Triptii Dimrii, Tamannaah Bhatia

The songs ‘Tauba Tauba’ and ‘Taras’ were the national anthems of the year while Triptii Dimrii and Tamannaah Bhatia became the national crushes. U – Unnecessary clashes

There were three releases on Independence Day and no release for almost two months. Similarly, there were 4 weeks of zero major releases after the major clash on Diwali. V – Vasan Bala

The director was massively trolled for Jigra, which many felt was unfair. W – Waste of Fridays

Many Fridays had zero releases, leading to boredom among viewers. Rajkummar Rao-starrer Srikant made good use of it and earned well. X – e(X)tremely high ticket prices

The ticket prices skyrocketed to record levels in 2024. Y – Yesteryear re-releases

Due to vacant Fridays, many older titles were re-released, leading to a new trend. Z – Zero Se Restart

The documentary, unlike 12th Fail (2023), didn’t find any takers.

Also Read: #2024Recap: 19 most EMBARRASSING scenes and dialogues in Bollywood films this year

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#2024Recap: 19 most EMBARRASSING scenes and dialogues in Bollywood films this year https://ift.tt/RUMz7SY

Every year, we come across films that make us cringe from start to finish or have particular sequences or dialogues that make us want to bury our heads in shame. Bollywood Hungama, in this special feature, collates a list of 19 such scenes and one-liners in Hindi films in 2024 that we felt were highly embarrassing.

1. Crakk

The film had scenes that left us wondering ‘what just happened’. The interval point has Vidyut Jamwal’s character threatening to blow up a place, which is rigged with bombs everywhere, leading to tension among others. And he does press the switch of the detonator. We feared he and others present with him – Arjun Rampal, Amy Jackson, etc. – will be blown to smithereens. However, the bombs exploded in the whole area except for the exact area where the trio were standing! 2. Yodha

The film went into a Nolan level of filmmaking category during the intermission point and also gave a feeling that Sidharth Malhotra’s character probably is a schizophrenic who has come to hijack the plane and yet, is unaware about it. 3. Bastar: The Naxal Story

This propaganda film has some unintentionally funny scenes showing ‘Left Liberals’ making plans to destabilize India. Hence, such individuals have to compulsorily be shown reading about Maoism and quoting Mao all the time. The film goes one step further and shows ‘Urban Naxals’, LeT members and LTTE members assembling together. 4. Swatantrya Veer Savarkar

The film is technically brilliant and has one of the best performances of Randeep Hooda. But the makers distort history and show Savarkar and Bhagat Singh have an emotional meeting, which never happened. 5. Bade Miyan Chote Miyan

The scene of Alaya F calling Tiger Shroff a snack is cringeworthy, to say the least. 6. Love Sex Aur Dhokha 2

The film’s climax is unbelievable. The animated AI angle looks out of place and leaves viewers dazed and confused. 7. Ruslaan

The protagonist here is stylish but at the same time, doesn't use his brains and starts attacking the baddies, leading to major consequences. The female character gets suspended because of his goof-up. We expect the girl to teach him a lesson for his blunder. Instead, she falls for him! 8. Ishq Vishk Rebound

The finale is unexpectedly funny and boasts of weak performances, leading to unintentional laughter in cinemas. 9. Hindustani 2

Moviegoers were left embarrassed to see Piyush Mishra in such a role and giving those weird expressions. Even Zakir Husain is bad and we wonder how their tracks got approved in the first place. 10. Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha

The makers promised suspense that would leave us stunned. However, most viewers are able to guess the twist from a mile away as to what exactly happened in this scene. 11. Ulajh

The makers crossed all limits with their product placement strategy. Janhvi Kapoor is shown putting many pieces of Pulse candy while spying. The camera also zooms on Pulse. Roshan Mathew even remarks ‘Pran jaaye par Pulse na jaaye’! The viewers laughed, not at the joke, but at the absurdity of the moment. 12. Vedaa

The climax shows the baddies attacking a high court of all places. The judges scramble to save their lives and shockingly, the cops are nowhere to be seen though this is supposed to be one of the most secured areas of the city. 13. The Buckingham Murders

The homosexual angle seems very forced and takes away the impact of the murder mystery. 14. Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video

We and many other viewers still wonder why on earth the makers chose to go off-genre and forcefully insert a ghost angle in the film. 15. Jigra

Viewers lose respect for Alia Bhatt when she mercilessly fights with the ex-cop, leading to his death. From here on, the film goes severely downhill. The climax is also very unconvincing. 16. Kanguva

The present-day track is executed in a haphazard way. To play the theme of The Boys made us feel like we are watching an Instagram Reel on the big screen instead of one of the most expensive films of Indian Cinema. 17. The Sabarmati Report

The film tries to put the blame of the Godhra episode majorly on wrong reporting as if that's the only reason for what conspired later on. If one goes by the film, then the TV channel shown in the film is the only news organization operating in India and that they had the power to alter the truth single-handedly. 18. Naam

The film starts with Ajay Devgn getting shot in the back. But for some strange reasons, it harms his brain and he ends up losing his memory. 19. Baby John

Keerthy Suresh’s character is dying and her hubby (Varun Dhawan) tells her ‘Tum meri doosri maa jaisi ho’. There are reports of people laughing across the country in this scene for what is intended to be an emotional moment.

Also Read: #2024Recap: Bollywood’s 27 BIGGEST and SHOCKING Controversies of 2024 – Salman Khan’s firing incident, Allu Arjun’s arrest, Arshad Warsi’s Joker comment, Singham Again vs Bhool Bhulaiyaa

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Salman Khan and family jet off to Jamnagar to celebrate the birthday of Dabangg star with grandeur https://ift.tt/dHYzE2j

Earlier this year, the entire squad of B-town celebs were in Jamnagar to celebrate Vantara and the pre-wedding of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant. Now as the year is about to end, the Khan family once again returned to the city to mark another major celebrations – the birthday of Salman Khan. While the actor’s fans are eagerly waiting to see what this joyous occasion holds in store, the entire family was seen flying down to the Gujarat city.

Although details of these celebrations currently stay under wraps, videos of the family landing at the airport were shared by the paparazzi accounts on their social media handles. Going by the same it seems that the entire family flew down to Jamnagar in one flight whereas Salman took another flight which included his bodyguard Shera and other security personnel. Meanwhile, Sohail Khan took a video of the entire family in the plane which included Salman’s mother Salma, father Salim Khan, step-mother Helen, sisters Alvira and Arpita along with their husbands Atul Agnihotri and Aayush Sharma, Arbaaz’s son Arhaan, Sohail’s son Nirvaan, Salman's alleged girlfriend Iulia Vantur, actor-couple Riteish and Genelia Deshmukh among many other family members and close friends.

 

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In another video, where Salman Khan is seen arriving at the Jamnagar airport with his bodyguards and security, he is surrounded by fans who are looking excited to see the actor arrive in the city.

 

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On the work front, Khan fans are eagerly awaiting the release of his next film titled Sikandar. According to news report, the film’s teaser will be unveiled soon and it stars Rashmika Mandanna for the first time with Khan along with Kajal Aggarwal and Prateik Babbar in key roles. The action entertainer is directed by A R Murugadoss and produced by Sajid Nadiadwala. It is slated to release during Eid 2025.

Also Read: Photos: Salman Khan, Sajid Nadiadwala and others snapped at Kalina airport

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With Pushpa 2, Allu Arjun inaugurates Rs. 700 crore club 16 years after father Allu Aravind inaugurated Rs. 100 crore club with Ghajini: “It’s an extraordinary coincidence with both father and son setting benchmarks” https://ift.tt/UgbJW5A

When sixteen years ago the blockbuster Ghajini, co-produced by Allu Aravind and Madhu Mantena, became the first Indian film to touch the Rs. 100 crores mark, no trade pundit could have predicted that eighteen years later Allu Arjun would be poised to incept the Rs. 1000 crores club with Pushpa 2: The Rule.

Said filmmaker Shoojit Sircar, “Congratulations to both. Unfortunately, I haven’t been able to see either milestone films. But this is a huge achievement. These box office figures will help us generate more films and more job opportunities.”

Speaking on the combined achievement of father and son, sound designer Resul Pookutty said, “People say son take the father’s legacy ahead. This is exactly what we see the father and son do. I remember Allu Arjun standing around my sound cart with wonderment, when we were doing sync sound for Ghajini, which was a rare thing in mainstream cinema at that time. Today, he chose to do the same when Allu Arjun was making Pushpa 1 & 2 and took the whole legacy tenfold. It’s only natural and befitting that he did so! Both of them have a penchant for the pulse of mainstream cinema…. They breathe it!”

Trade Guru Taran Adarsh feels father and son creating history is providential. He said, “Life certainly has a way of springing surprises, and this one is particularly remarkable. Allu Aravind was the producer of Ghajini, the first Hindi film to cross the Rs. 100 crores mark, effectively founding the iconic Rs. 100 crore club in the Hindi film industry. Fast forward to today, and his son, Allu Arjun, has now inaugurated the Rs. 700 crores club, with the potential to soon push it even further into the Rs. 800 crores range. It’s an extraordinary coincidence, with both father and son setting benchmarks that will be etched in history whenever box office statistics, records, milestones, or achievements are discussed.”

Added producer and trade expert Girish Johar, “This is a massive observation. It clearly depicts how the family has their strong connect with the Indian audiences. So many decades these are iconic films which have not only set new box office benchmarks but have also withstood the test of times. Allu Aravind has also backed more superlative content & now with his son, Allu Arjun, Pushpa2: The Rule is the modern trend-maker, which going to rule for a long time. The best part is both Ghajini and Pushpa 2 have done exceptionally well in their non-core language, Hindi.”

Also Read: From Allu Arjun’s electrifying entry in Pushpa 2 to Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’s thrilling climax: Top 10 scenes of 2024 ranked by Brain wave mapping

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Amitabh Bachchan reveals he is “huge fan” of Allu Arjun: “Recognition he has received is well-deserved” https://ift.tt/OEtMaQA

Veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan recently expressed his admiration for South Indian superstar Allu Arjun during an episode of his popular game show Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC). While interacting with a contestant, Bachchan revealed that he is a “huge fan” of Arjun but emphasized that he would not like to be compared to the star.

A Memorable Interaction on KBC

During Season 16 of Kaun Banega Crorepati, a homemaker from Kolkata, Rajni Barniwal, was a contestant on the hot seat. In the course of their conversation, Rajni mentioned her admiration for both Amitabh Bachchan and Allu Arjun. Responding humorously, Bachchan quipped, “Naming me won’t make a difference now,” eliciting laughter from the audience.

However, the contestant was earnest in her response, stating, “Sir, I am a fan of both Allu Arjun and you.” This prompted the host to discuss his thoughts on Arjun’s talent and popularity.

“Allu Arjun is an incredibly talented artist, and the recognition he has received is well-deserved. I’m also a huge fan of his. Recently, his movie was released (Pushpa 2: The Rule), and if you haven’t seen it yet, you should watch it. But don’t compare me to him,” Bachchan remarked.

Contestant Highlights Similarities

The conversation took an endearing turn when Rajni pointed out the similarities between the two actors. She said, “When you perform comedy scenes, both of you bite your collar and blink your eyes. You also have a similar richness in your voices.” Bachchan chuckled and playfully asked when he had done so. Rajni reminded him of his performance in Amar Akbar Anthony. She further shared her dream to meet Arjun, adding that meeting Bachchan had fulfilled another of her lifelong wishes.

Also Read: Pushpa 2 (Hindi) becomes the highest grossing foreign film ever in Nepal

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Divyenndu on starring in Agni, "When I read the script, it was an actual true page turner" https://ift.tt/xbnGFP8

The super-talented Divyenndu ‘Mirzapur’ Sharma said he is very satisfied with his journey so far. “I would say that I am satisfied to an extent that now filmmakers are giving me different kinds of roles,” he said. “I'm satisfied in the sense that I'm getting to work in different genres of films, different filmmakers, different stories, different characters, like I said. But having said that, I feel it's just the beginning. I am very, very hungry for good work. I want to collaborate with different kind of filmmakers, different kind of storytelling. I don't want to just be seen as a typical kind of an actor. I want to be that kind of actor when, if my name Divyenndu is attached to a project, people should know, filmmakers should know there has to be something special in it. So that's what my definition of satisfied is that every time I come up with something new.”

On his newest film on firefighters Agni, Divyenndu said it was a no brainer to say to the offer. “Saying yes to Agni was, honestly, was very, very easy for me,” said the actor. “When I read the script, it was an actual true page turner. It was beautifully written. The world of firefighters we were seeing for the very first time. It's a thriller, it's an investigation, a filmmaker like Rahul Dholakia was directing it, who is a pretty respected name, right from the days of Parzania.”

He added, “Plus, Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani’s Excel was producing it. This was my second project after Mirzapur with Excel. I know and trust their sensibilities a lot when it comes to a project. I was getting to play a cop for the first time and, you know, a Marathi cop. So there was something new for me there as well. I had to play a certain age for this character, which also attracted me towards it. So all in all, I think everything about Agni, it was all yes for me. There was absolutely no doubt in my mind. It was almost a no-brainer for me to say yes to Agni.”

Agni reunited Divyenndu with Pratik Gandhi. He said, “Working with Pratik after Madgaon Express, so actually many people don't know this, but we shot Agni first and then Madgaon Express happened. So our friendship actually blossomed on the sets of Agni and he's a great guy. He's a great actor, you know, a very fine collaborator. We instantly became friends on the set of Agni. There was absolutely nothing which was odd or not welcoming about Pratik. We both had a mutual admiration for each other's work. So, that really helped us in becoming friends. We come from similar training background, so to say. He also comes from theatre. I come from theatre and film school.”

“So you know, these kind of things, they really helped us to gel in the beginning,” continued Divyenndu. “And, you know, our working methods are very, very similar. Every time we are working on a scene, we try to uplift the scene rather than being in a game of one-upmanship with each other. So that was really, really nice. I firmly believe that, you know, no matter how good you are, the scene or the film is not going to look great if your co-actor fails. So, we both believe that it has to be something which you have to come together and create some magic on screen. So yeah, working with him was an absolute treat, I would say.”

The underrated scene-stealing actor also has words of praise for Agni director Rahul Dholakia. “What I really like about him is that he's a guy with no baggage,” said the actor. “Even after so many years of experience, making both arthouse films and commercial cinema, mainstream Hindi cinema, he comes with no baggage. He is someone who is on one hand very clear on what he wants, but he's on the other hand very, very open to suggestions. He's always interested in knowing what you have in mind for the character. What I really liked in him is that he comes from a school where you don't want to just underline the emotions too much. It's the understanding of human emotions and human situations that is important.”

He added, “So, with Rahul Dholakia you don't need to act too much. He understands that. So it was very, very easy to work with him. He used to give his suggestions and tell me what he wants from the character and we made this character together. So it was a very, very collaborative effort. And I really like, I really like him as a person. You know, his principles in life also is something I really, truly agree with. So a very easy breezy director to work with, you know, which is, which is, which is very rare.”

Agni gave Divyenndu another opportunity to play his character honestly. “My main criteria always is to be very, very honest and truthful when I'm playing a character,” he said. “And I'm very happy that people are loving Agni. They are appreciating the efforts of all of us, not just me, the whole cast and crew, the entire team. So honestly, I'm just very happy that people are talking about firefighters. It was one of the main reasons to be part of this film, because they've never ever been represented in any kind of cinema or film in our country.”

Continued Divyenndu, “And I think we have failed as a society somewhere, because it's not fair on anyone that when you see a department working tirelessly day and night, and people won’t recognize their efforts. So I'm just very happy about this, that, you know, Agni is there to represent firefighters. And I think it was a truly, truly an honour for me to be part of this film.”

Also Read: Agni Trailer Out: Pratik Gandhi, Divyenndu Sharma starrer celebrates the courage and sacrifice of firefighters

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Manmohan Singh passes away at 92: Bhumi Pednekar, Madhuri Dixit, Sanjay Dutt, and others pay heartfelt tributes https://ift.tt/qS697KA

India mourns the loss of its former Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away on December 26 at the age of 92. Known for his remarkable contributions to India's economic reforms and his tenure as the Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, Dr. Singh's demise marks the end of an era.

The news of his passing sent shockwaves across the nation, with political leaders, citizens, and entertainment industry members expressing their grief and paying homage to his legacy. Bollywood celebrities were quick to share their condolences and memories of the visionary leader. Bollywood Reacts to the Loss Bhumi Pednekar says, “His legacy will inspire us forever”

 

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Nikita Dutta recalls sharing a wall with Manmohan Singh in Janapath

He was probably the main reason my father convinced me to pick economics as my subject of major in college. Inspite of knowing I can never get anywhere close to any of his achievements, I gave in. For years we shared a wall while living in Janpath and I could never stop fan… pic.twitter.com/6NBjf1w0MB — Nikita Dutta (@nikifyinglife) December 27, 2024

Swara Bhaskar: “You gave India more than you got credit for”

Nimraut Kaur calls Manmohan Singh “Architect of India’s economic reforms”

Madhuri Dixit offers condolences

Chitrangada Singh express grief over Manmohan Singh’s demise

Daisy Shah calls it “End of an era”

Raveena Tandon REACTS to Manmohan Singh’s demise

Esha Gupta pays tribute to Manmohan Singh

Sanjay Dutt pens a short note for Manmohan Singh

Also Read: Akshay Kumar, Kiara Advani, Richa Chadha, and other celebs react to Manipur video of Koki women being paraded around naked going viral

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Sonu Sood reveals Chiranjeevi’s reaction to Fateh trailer ahead of its clash with Ram Charan’s Game Changer: “He said, ‘I would love to promote this film’” https://ift.tt/h1SroKy

As the new year kicks off in 2025, a major box office clash looms with Sonu Sood’s Fateh and Ram Charan’s Game Changer releasing on the same day, January 10. While some might view this as a competition, Sonu Sood remains unfazed and optimistic, stating that good films always find their audience.

Chiranjeevi Extends Support to Fateh In an exclusive chat with News18 Showsha, Sonu Sood shared a memorable encounter with veteran actor Chiranjeevi, who expressed enthusiasm for Fateh. “I recently met Chiranjeevi sir at the airport lounge in Bangalore. When he saw the trailer of Fateh and the rushes, he said that it’s something he has never seen before!” Sonu recalled.

According to Sonu, Chiranjeevi went a step further, offering his support despite Game Changer featuring his son, Ram Charan. “(Chiranjeevi) said, ‘I would love to promote this film. Tell me when we can do it.’ He wanted to do something very big for Fateh. And this is what cinema is all about. It’s about loving each other. I wish them all the best. May Game Changer be a game-changer for them,” he added. The Philosophy Behind the Clash Sonu Sood remains positive about the clash, noting that the box office has room for multiple successes. “Good films will always do well. There are hundreds of examples where two or three films have released on the same day and they’ve all done well,” he said.

While acknowledging the buzz surrounding other films like Allu Arjun’s Pushpa 2: The Rule, Sonu stressed the importance of focusing on storytelling. “More than Pushpa 2 raising the bar for all of us, it has reiterated the importance of putting in effort and doing one’s job sincerely,” he stated. “Tomorrow, you shouldn’t be looking back and regretting the things that you could’ve done but didn’t.” Fateh: A Labour of Love Fateh marks Sonu Sood’s debut as a writer, director, and producer, a journey that took three years to come to fruition. Reflecting on his decision to step behind the camera, Sonu shared, “All these years, I’ve been fortunate enough to work with different directors and actors – across many languages – who taught me the ropes of the craft. When I thought that I was equipped enough to make my own film, I dived into it.”

He added, “I didn’t want to become a filmmaker when I came to Mumbai, but I wanted to showcase myself in a particular way. I always felt I could do better. So, I thought, why not write and direct my own film?” Game Changer: A Star-Studded Rival On the other hand, Game Changer features Ram Charan and Kiara Advani, directed by Shankar and produced by Dil Raju. The film has generated significant anticipation and is poised to draw massive crowds.

Also Read: Fateh trailer launch: Sonu Sood reveals that his team suggested that he should ask Shah Rukh Khan or Salman Khan to provide voiceover for the AI character in the film

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“Anil Kapoor didn’t bathe for 2-3 days after shooting his first film,” reveals Boney Kapoor; recalls former doing pull-ups to increase his height https://ift.tt/zOpT3LS

Producer Boney Kapoor recently opened up about his younger days and shared insights into his brother Anil Kapoor’s early struggles in the film industry. Speaking about Anil’s dedication and passion for acting, Boney revealed quirky and inspiring anecdotes that highlight the veteran actor’s determination to succeed.

Skipping Baths for Stardom In an interview with ABP, Boney Kapoor recalled a time when Anil Kapoor refrained from bathing for 2-3 days after shooting his first film. “Anil always wanted to become an actor. When he was in school, he played the child version of Shashi Kapoor. He was so passionate that he didn’t bathe for 2-3 days because he didn’t want the makeup to come off. He wanted everyone to know he had become an actor,” shared Boney. Struggles and Hard Work Boney Kapoor further revealed that Anil’s path to success was anything but easy. “He struggled a lot. He played a role in Ek Baar Kaho as the sidekick of the second hero. He also worked in Telugu and Kannada films and starred in Mani Ratnam’s first film. During one Ramesh Sippy film, Anil shaved his entire chest hair to look like a 16-year-old,” he said.

Anil’s determination also extended to physical transformations. “He would do pull-ups regularly to increase his height,” added Boney. A Stellar Career Spanning Over Four Decades Anil Kapoor, who debuted in films in the late 1970s, has now been part of the industry for nearly 45 years. The actor was last seen in two films of 2024, Fighter and Savi. Up next, he will star in Amazon Prime Video’s Subedaar, where he plays the lead role alongside Radhika Madan, who portrays his daughter.

Also Read: FIRST LOOK: Anil Kapoor fans receive a special treat as Prime Video drops TEASER of Subedaar on his birthday

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Kriti Sanon's Christmas 2024: MS Dhoni dons Santa suit, rumoured beau Kabir Bahia joins celebration; see pics! https://ift.tt/TrNPUFb

Former Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni brought festive cheer to Kriti Sanon's Christmas celebration by surprising guests as Santa Claus. The intimate gathering, which included Sanon's rumored boyfriend Kabir Bahia and his family, offered a glimpse into the star-studded holiday festivities through social media posts.

A Special Santa for Ziva The World Cup-winning captain, who dressed up as Santa Claus for his daughter Ziva, became the highlight of the celebration. Photos shared on Instagram captured Dhoni in full Santa attire, spreading joy and maintaining his reputation as India's favorite Santa, both on and off the cricket field. Inside the Celebrity Christmas Gathering Kriti Sanon shared a carousel of images on her Instagram, featuring moments from the celebration. The actress was photographed posing with Dhoni in his festive costume and was also captured in front of a Christmas tree, sporting a Santa hat.

 

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Portrait Reveals Close Bonds While Sanon's posts didn't include pictures with Kabir Bahia, the businessman shared a comprehensive portrait on his social media. The group photo featured the Bahia family, including his parents and brother, alongside MS Dhoni, Sakshi Dhoni, Ziva, and Kriti Sanon, who was seen seated next to Kabir in an affectionate pose.

Speaking of the professional front, Kriti was last seen in Do Patti, released directly on OTT. Besides headlining the project, Kriti also marked her debut as a producer. The film also features Kajol and Shaheer Shaikh. Meanwhile, her last theatrical release was Crew, starring Kareena Kapoor Khan and Tabu. The actress is yet to announce her upcoming projects.

Also Read: Kriti Sanon reflects on her creative evolution; says, “I am enjoying this phase, I would love to add some more butterflies in my Blue Butterfly films”

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Aamir Khan ADMITS being insecure about his height, speaks on battling fear of rejection: “I used to feel that what if people don’t accept me” https://ift.tt/cdvY1SW

Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan has candidly addressed his insecurities about his height, revealing how it impacted him during the initial stages of his career. Standing at 5 feet, 5 inches, Aamir’s height was a source of concern for him when he entered the industry as a leading man in the late 1980s.

The actor spoke about this during a conversation with Nana Patekar on Zee Music Company’s YouTube channel. Responding to a question about whether he had ever experienced an inferiority complex about his height, Aamir admitted, “Yes, I did. I used to feel that what if people don’t accept me because of my height. This was my fear. But later, I realised that all of this does not matter at all. But at that time, some kind of insecurity creeps in.” Battling Insecurities and Finding Confidence This is not the first time Aamir has spoken about his initial struggles with confidence. In 2012, while promoting his film Talaash, he recalled being called ‘tingu’ (a colloquial term for someone short) and how such comments initially affected him. However, over time, the actor found solace in his craft and the connection he built with audiences.

“The things that stress us out in the beginning, we later realise that these things don’t matter at all. What is important is how honestly you are working and how your work can enchant people, and after that, everything else is unimportant,” Aamir remarked during his recent conversation with Patekar.

Aamir’s last appearance on the big screen was in Laal Singh Chaddha (2022), a remake of the Oscar-winning Forrest Gump. Although the film did not perform well at the box office, Aamir is gearing up for his next project, Sitaare Zameen Par, a sequel to his critically acclaimed 2007 film Taare Zameen Par.

Also Read: “Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan and Aamir Khan are not delulu”: Varun Dhawan critiques Bollywood leadership, calls for reinvention and diversity

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"Baby John has totally changed my life": Varun Dhawan speaks about "Atlee’s world is filled with drama, action, and hero elevation" https://ift.tt/AGmoI0j

Actor Varun Dhawan has taken the industry by storm and captured the hearts of millions. From delivering punchy hero dialogues in Main Tera Hero to showcasing his incredible versatility in October to embodying the perfect romantic lead in Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania and Badrinath Ki Dulhania, Varun has done it all! With his 'bindass' dialogue delivery, killer expressions, and moves that make you want to hit the dance floor, Varun has truly become one of the biggest stars in the game. In a fun-filled chat on Amazon Music’s ‘It Changed My Life segment’, Varun spilled the beans on his journey from a student to a Bollywood superstar!

As Varun Dhawan gears up for the much-anticipated release of his action-thriller Baby John on December 25, 2024, he takes a moment to reflect on his extraordinary journey in cinema, offering fascinating insights and behind-the-scenes stories. In the Amazon Music video for in-app customers and YouTube fans, ‘It Changed My Life’, Varun gives a sneak peek into his career, discussing key films that have shaped his path, including Student of the Year, ABCD 2, Bhediya, Kalank, and Baby John. Through fun moments and personal anecdotes, he offers fans a unique opportunity to connect with him and explore his incredible, entertaining journey.

Varun expressed his excitement about the upcoming release of Baby John, "Atlee’s world is filled with drama, action, romance, a lot of hero elevation, some bad guys, some tough guys, crazy aerial stunts, jumping into rivers, 100 feet drops, riding a bike in the streets of Kerala, and shooting a song with 1000 dancers. He usually has these big hero elevation songs with full high-octane energy, like how we have the song Bandobast."

While talking about the music composer Thaman S, Varun said, "Thaman is a beast. The scale of music he does is huge. “With Nain Matakka, it was Atlee’s wish that we should get Diljit Dosanjh. Since I am already working with him on two films, I had to call in some favors, but he loved the track, so he did it." He further adds.

Lastly, wrapping up the engaging segment ‘It Changed My Life’ Varun expressed, “Baby John has totally changed my Life, I had technicians from all over India and the world. I think they really know how to make mass films as opposed to what we think we know and we make. It really changed my life in the sense that this is what I need to do to reach a certain kind of audience all around the country, which I want to. I want to be able to be a household name, I want people to know and love my cinema.”

Also Read: Baby John advance booking: Varun Dhawan film sells 50,000 tickets; targets approx. Rs. 15 cr. opening on Day 1

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With clapworth moments and energetic performances BABY JOHN is an entertainer which works Movie Review: BABY JOHN is a mass entertainer which works https://ift.tt/FmK2RPw

Star Cast: Varun Dhawan, Keerthy Suresh, Wamiqa Gabbi

Director: Kalees

Baby John Movie Review Synopsis: BABY JOHN is the story of a protective father. John D’Silva (Varun Dhawan), a restaurateur, stays in Alappuzha, Kerala with his daughter Khushi (Zara Zyanna). He dotes on her and is bringing her up with the right values. John forms a bond with Khushi's teacher Tara (Wamiqa Gabbi). Tara takes John's help, without his knowledge, when she rescues a girl and approaches the cops. John is aghast when he learns about Tara’s actions due to his past with the police force. A complaint is filed against a dreaded henchman, Boss (Jaffer Sadiq). Assuming that John complained to the police and that he’s a common man, Boss and his men attack him. But John turns out to be a beast. He finishes them off ruthlessly. Tara sees him attacking the goons and learns that he's none other than Satya Verma, who was once the DCP and the husband of Dr. Meera (Keerthy Suresh). But his confrontation with Nanaji (Jackie Shroff) proves to be a turning point in his life. Hence, he decides to leave the force and live as a common man. What happens next forms the rest of the film.

Baby John Movie Story Review: Atlee's story is massy but also a bit outdated. Kalees's screenplay tries to rise above the plot and is infused with mass moments. However, the writing could have been better. Sumit Arora's dialogues add to the mass touch.

Kalees's direction is commercial. The film is mounted on a huge scale and it has been handled appropriately. The bond shared by the father and the daughter is adorable while the romantic track also has its moments. But the best is reserved for the mass elevation scenes. The scenes that are memorable are John attacking the goons at night, Satya and Meera’s first meeting, Satya searching for Amba (Snigddha Suman) and what happens thereafter. The pre-interval block is when the film goes on another level and it’ll be greeted with whistles and claps. Post-interval, Satya’s meeting with the parents and the shootout at his residence stand out. The scene of Bhima Rane (Shrikant Yadav) and the North Eastern kid is well thought out.

On the flipside, BABY JOHN comes too late in the day as it gives a déjà vu of SIMMBA [2018], JAWAN [2023] etc. The execution is overall satisfactory but in some places, it's haphazard. The product placement of Center Fresh and Astral Pipes is quite in-your-face. But the biggest issue is that of the writing. BABY JOHN is a remake of THERI, which arrived 8 years ago. A lot has changed since then in terms of tastes and trends and Atlee should have aligned the script accordingly. Moreover, the hero vs villain equation is not convincing. Usually, the villain needs to be so powerful that the audience should wonder how the hero would defeat him. But in BABY JOHN, the hero becomes all-powerful once he harms Nanaji big time and doesn’t face consequences from the police department or the government. Nana takes revenge much later. But by then, it becomes clear that Satya can finish Nanaji, whenever he wants. This aspect severely impacts the goings-on.

Baby John – Trailer | Atlee | Varun Dhawan, Keerthy Suresh, Wamiqa Gabbi, Jackie Shroff

Baby John Movie Review Performances: Varun Dhawan delivers a sincere performance and excels in the action and emotional scenes. However, it’s not convincing to show him as a DCP as he seems young for that position. Ideally, there should have been a reason why he managed to rise through the ranks so early in his life. Keerthy Suresh makes a superb debut in Bollywood and has an arresting screen presence. Wamiqa Gabbi, as expected, rocks the show, albeit in a supporting role. Jackie Shroff looks menacing and does a brilliant job. But he’s let down by the writing. Zara Zyanna is adorable. However, a few of her dialogues are not audible properly. Jaffer Sadiq is apt for the part. Shrikant Yadav lends able support. Rajpal Yadav (Ram Sevak) is seen in a different avatar and would be loved by the audience. Sheeba Chaddha (Madhvi Verma; Satya's mother) is dependable as always. Zakir Hussain (Baldev Patil) and Prakash Belawadi (Yashraj Mukherjee) are strictly okay. Omkar Das Manikpuri (Badrinath) and Mona Ambegaonkar (the doctor who tries to revive Amba) are fair. Lastly, Salman Khan’s cameo is quite entertaining.

Baby John movie music and other technical aspects: Thaman S's music is not of chartbuster variety. The title song is the only song that stands out. 'Nain Matakka' is well picturized while 'Pikley Pom' is passable. 'Bandobast' is too similar to 'Zinda Banda'.  'Hazaar Baar' and 'Gudda Guddi' are forgettable. Thaman S's background score is energetic.

Kiran Koushik's cinematography is satisfactory. Anl Arasu, Stunt Silva, Anbariv, Yannick Ben, Sunil Rodrigues, Kaloyan Vodenicharov, Manohar Verma, and Bronwin October's action is violent but works well in a film like this. T Muthuraj's production design is rich. Sheetal Iqbal Sharma's costumes are appropriate while Shruthi Manjari's costumes for Keerthy Suresh are appealing. NY VFXWaala's VFX is superior. Ruben's editing could have been slicker, especially in the first half.

Baby John Movie Review Conclusion: On the whole, BABY JOHN is a mass entertainer which works due to the clapworthy moments, the message, Varun Dhawan’s energetic performance and the cameo by Salman Khan. At the box office, the film will benefit owing to the long holiday period and no competition until Republic Day.

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RIP Shyam Benegal: The filmmaker once said “You CAN’T look away when Shah Rukh Khan is on screen”; wanted Hrithik Roshan to play Gautam Buddha in an ambitious biopic https://ift.tt/DIRT1Qy

One of the greatest filmmakers of Indian cinema, Shyam Benegal, passed away on December 23. Fans were disheartened at the loss and also over the fact that the legendary director recently celebrated his 90th birthday, on December 14, with gusto in the presence of industry friends - Naseeruddin Shah, Shabana Azmi, Divya Dutta, Kulbhushan Kharbanda, Rajit Kapur and Kunal Kapoor, among others. Since his passing, various newspapers and news websites have talked about his immense contribution to cinema and for starting a new wave in Bollywood. Bollywood Hungama, in this special feature, will focus on some of the lesser-known instances and his views on mainstream actors.

In a 2009 interview, Shyam Benegal expressed his admiration for Shah Rukh Khan's acting prowess and screen presence. While talking to PTI, he said, “Shah Rukh is a truly brilliant actor. When he comes on the screen, you hardly look anywhere else but at him - he is that kind of an actor.”

When asked if Shyam Benegal would like to cast the superstar, the filmmaker replied, “How can I cast him? I don't have a subject that might even interest him.”

Hrithik Roshan in and as Gautam Buddha

More than a year before he spoke about Shah Rukh Khan, Shyam Benegal, opened up about Hrithik Roshan. This was a time when he wanted to make a film on Gautam Buddha and wanted to cast the Fighter (2024) actor in the lead role.

In an interview with Mumbai Mirror on December 25, 2007, Shyam Benegal confirmed that he had approached Hrithik Roshan and that the actor seemed keen to work on the film. He said, “Hrithik is quite keen to do the film and has asked for the script. Right now, we are working on putting the script together.”

Shyam Benegal continued, “We will take some time to get the script in place. But yes, I am keen on casting Hrithik. I feel he will suit the character of Buddha. His facial features are appropriate for the role.”

In the same interview, he also mentioned that the Gautam Buddha film would be a very expensive project. Benegal planned to produce himself along with a production house from Sri Lanka. Sadly, the film never materialized.

Also Read: Veteran filmmaker Shyam Benegal passes away at 90

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Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone introduce their daughter Dua to paparazzi; watch viral video https://ift.tt/dEKfX3r

Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone, who tied the knot over six years ago, welcomed their first child in September this year. The happy couple, ever since then, has been enjoying their parenthood journey. While they have been making rare public appearances, recently they surprised the paparazzi by inviting them to their residence to introduce the cameramen to their daughter Dua Padukone Singh.

While they are yet to introduce her to the social media fam, the paparazzi were thrilled to receive this honor with many of them going to describe her as a ‘little angel’. The actors, however, requested the cameramen and photographers to refrain from clicking her. However, the couple decided to have a brief interaction with the paps, where they were also seen showering love on each other. Ranveer created a moment as he fondly kissed his wife on her cheek leaving DeepVeer fans enthralled with their PDA.

 

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For the unversed, Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone, who tied the knot in November 2018, became proud parents to a baby girl on September 8. During the occasion of Diwali, the couple unveiled the name of their daughter as Dua Padukone Singh on social media where they shared an adorable photo of their little angel’s baby feet and said, “‘Dua’ : meaning a Prayer. Because She is the Answer to our Prayers. Our hearts are filled with Love & Gratitude. Deepika & Ranveer”.

 

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Meanwhile, on the work front, Deepika Padukone seems to have taken a break to enjoy motherhood and will be announcing her upcoming projects soon. Whereas, Ranveer Singh is collaborating with Aditya Dhar in a one-of-a-kind project where he will be seen sharing screen space with Sanjay Dutt, R Madhavan, Akshaye Khanna, Arjun Rampal, and others in a film reportedly titled Dhurandar. The actor is also expected to have Don 3 and other films in pipeline but there has been no update regarding the same.

Also Read: Photos: Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone introduce their daughter Dua to the paparazzi

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Kartik Aaryan reflects on the massive success of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 https://ift.tt/Ez3lJSM

This year saw the roaring success of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 captivated audiences and set benchmarks in Bollywood. Grossing over ₹400 crore worldwide, the horror-comedy cemented Kartik Aaryan’s position as one of the industry's most bankable stars. With this film, Kartik also achieved a significant milestone, becoming one of the youngest actors to enter the ₹200 crore club.

Here's how Kartik Aaryan clarified what worked for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3

The actor opened up about the immense response the film received in a recent interview with Filmfare, wherein he said, "I believe Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 succeeded by staying true to the franchise’s essence while introducing fresh elements. The blend of horror, comedy, and nostalgia appealed to both longtime fans and new audiences. Our franchise isn’t about continuity but about creating new worlds and stories behind the iconic darwaza. This time, the twist at the end kept the audiences hooked. Rooh Baba and Manjulika have become iconic characters with their own dedicated fanbase."

It is a known fact Kartik’s portrayal of Rooh Baba struck a chord with audiences worldwide. Meanwhile, the character of Manjulika played by Vidya Balan has remained iconic ever since the actress embodied it eight years ago and fans of the franchise were excited to see her return. By keeping the nostalgia of the franchise alive, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 bridged generational gaps, offering something unique for every viewer.

About Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3

Many interesting aspects from the dance faceoff between Madhuri Dixit and Vidya Balan to the climax twist, the horror comedy had some intriguing elements that contributed to the success of this Diwali venture. Starring Triptii Dimri along with franchise regulars like Rajpal Yadav, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 was directed by Anees Bazmee and produced by Bhushan Kumar.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Sonu Nigam credits success of ‘Mere Dholna 3.0’ to “divine blessing”; CONFESSES not being emotional during the recording of Kartik Aaryan-starrer track

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Boney Kapoor calls Ajay Devgn’s Maidaan “Shocker” despite critical praise: “Some have compared it to Mr. India” https://ift.tt/WZwQa4B

Ajay Devgn’s sports drama Maidaan, released in April 2024, received critical acclaim but struggled to draw audiences to theatres. Reflecting on the unexpected failure, producer Boney Kapoor shared his disappointment, calling it “a shocker” given the film’s strong pre-release buzz.

A Producer’s Disappointment Speaking to News18 Showsha, Boney Kapoor revealed, “Naturally, I was upset. I was very upset for a few days, but then you’ve got to move on. Raj Kapoor, one of the most prolific filmmakers, also had films that didn’t meet his expectations.”

Despite the setback, Kapoor emphasized the quality of Maidaan and its potential long-term impact. “Even today, filmmakers call me to praise the film and express their disappointment over its box office performance. Some have compared it to Mr. India and believe it could become iconic in times to come,” he added. Ajay Devgn’s Best Performance Kapoor lauded Ajay Devgn’s portrayal in the film, calling it his “best performance to date.” He further praised the cast and crew, including Priyamani, Gajraj Rao, and director Amit Sharma, for their exceptional contributions. “Every moment of the film seemed real. It looked like it was happening in front of you,” he remarked. Speculating the Reasons Behind the Failure When asked why the film did not succeed at the box office, Kapoor admitted there is no surefire formula for a hit movie. “Somehow, it didn’t draw enough crowd to the theatres. Maybe we lacked some kind of promotional activity or didn’t pitch it rightly. Perhaps, people thought the film had come and gone because it took four years to make, with three years lost to COVID,” he explained. Proud Despite the Outcome Despite the underwhelming box office performance, Kapoor remains proud of Maidaan. “All in all, I remain proud of that film and will always be proud of it,” he concluded.

Also Read: Boney Kapoor recalls sharing post featuring Javed Akhtar with a witty caption about hair; says doctors assured him of better hair than Anil Kapoor: “I’m going to challenge them to make my hair better than Arjun Kapoor’s”

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Salman Khan reveals Yo Yo Honey Singh finished Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan track in 30 minutes: “I requested him to come and be in the song with us” https://ift.tt/a4B9VZO

Salman Khan revealed in Yo Yo Honey Singh’s Netflix documentary Yo Yo Honey Singh: Famous that the rapper-composer created a rap for Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan in just half an hour. The song, ‘Let’s Dance Chotu Motu,’ features a rap segment composed and performed by Honey Singh, who Salman was also invited to appear in the music video.

Honey Singh’s Quick Turnaround for Salman Khan In the documentary, Honey Singh shared his excitement about the opportunity. “Salman Khan sent me this song. It was already made, and he asked if I wanted to rap in it. He was shooting for the song in two days,” Honey Singh said. The documentary showed him brainstorming and composing the lyrics with his team.

Recalling the experience, Salman Khan said, “He went to the studio, and in half an hour, he finished the rap. Then I requested Honey to come and be in the song with us. It’s a really cool song for kids.” Insights from the Documentary Yo Yo Honey Singh: Famous, which premiered on December 20, 2024, on Netflix, chronicles the rapper’s journey to stardom, struggles with bipolar disorder, and his return to the music scene. Directed by Mozez Singh and produced by Guneet Monga’s Sikhya Entertainment, the documentary gives fans an intimate look into Honey Singh’s highs and lows.

“For years, there have been countless conjectures about me in the media, and I have never really shared my side of the story. This documentary is the right opportunity to tell my story,” said Honey Singh.

Also Read: Salman Khan speaks on reuniting with Sajid Nadiadwala after 10 years for Sikandar instead of Kick 2; calls AR Murugadoss directorial “irresistible”

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Mamta Kulkarni DENIES connection with the drug world and Vicky Goswami: “I spent 12 years in dhyan, tap, and puja path. When he came out of jail…” https://ift.tt/AKaZfS8

Former actress Mamta Kulkarni recently returned to Mumbai after 25 years. In a conversation with ANI, she clarified that her return was not related to Bollywood. “I have not come back for Bollywood and I am not planning to make a return as an actress,” she stated.

On Her Connection with Vicky Goswami Addressing her alleged ties to drug lord Vicky Goswami, Mamta said, “I have no connection with the drug world as I never met these people. Yes, I got connected with Vicky Goswami… In 1996, my spiritual journey started, and a guru came into my life during that time.”

Recounting her association with Goswami, she revealed, “Vicky called me when he was in jail in Dubai to come and meet him. I spent 12 years in dhyan, tap, and puja path. When he came out of jail in 2012, my desires were finished — to fall in love or get married, nothing was left. I had decided until he would come out, I wouldn’t go back to India.”

She added that while Goswami went to Kenya, she returned to India briefly in 2012 for the Kumbh Mela before heading back to Dubai. Controversies and Allegations In 2017, Thane Police issued a non-bailable warrant against Mamta Kulkarni and Vicky Goswami in a drug haul case. The duo’s names surfaced based on evidence that led to a chargesheet. Goswami was extradited to the US in 2017 alongside other associates and faced drug trafficking charges following a sting operation by the US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA).

Mamta clarified her position, saying, “Vicky went back to Kenya, and once or twice I went to meet him and came back to Dubai. He had already been accused in Kenya, and I was not with him during that time. From 2016 to 2024, I focused on my spiritual practices.” She stated that she last contacted Goswami in 2016 and has no current ties with him.

Mamta Kulkarni rose to fame in the 1990s with films like Karan Arjun and Baazi.

Also Read: Karan Arjun actress Mamta Kulkarni returns to Mumbai after the court clears the Rs. 200 crore drug-trafficking case; former actress shares emotional video

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Laughter, cots, and courtroom jokes: The hilarious mahurat of Amitabh Bachchan and Govinda's Bade Miyan Chote Miyan https://ift.tt/Fv73ELy

On 22nd December 1997, Bollywood witnessed one of its most entertaining mahurat ceremonies at Hotel Centaur, marking the beginning of Bade Miyan Chote Miyan. The film, directed by David Dhawan and starring Amitabh Bachchan and Govinda, was already creating buzz as one of the most exciting announcements of the time. The mahurat shot, however, added an extra dose of laughter and energy, setting the tone for what promised to be a blockbuster entertainer.

The two miyans, Amitabh and Govinda, faced the camera for a hilarious scene that had everyone in splits. The scene revolved around a lighthearted discussion between the two about their future plans. Amitabh shared his intention to become a neta (politician), to which Govinda humorously cautioned him against the pitfalls of politics, citing scams, court battles, and eventual imprisonment. Taking Govinda’s advice, Amitabh decided instead to become an abhineta (actor). What followed was a comedic tug-of-war, with both vying for the role of the actor and insisting the other become their secretary.

When it was finally agreed that Amitabh would become the bade miyan abhineta, Govinda inquired what he would do next. Amitabh declared he would earn plenty of money and then sleep peacefully. Govinda, with his impeccable comic timing, quipped, “But that’s what we’re already doing - sleeping. So why bother doing anything else?” The scene concluded with both actors hilariously deciding to return to their khatiya (cot) to resume their slumber, leaving the audience in splits.

The mahurat was met with thunderous applause and roaring laughter, with the scene’s witty references to scams, legal troubles, and even a cheeky nod to the recent income-tax raid on David Dhawan adding a layer of topical humor.

The film, produced by Sheetal Jain in association with Vashu Bhagnani, boasted an impressive team, including writer Rumi Jafri, music composer Viju Shah, lyricist Sameer, cinematographer K.S. Prakash Rao, and choreographer B.H. Tharun Kumar. The art direction by R. Verman and editing by A. Muthu further rounded out the talented crew. With such a formidable cast and crew, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan was poised to be a memorable cinematic experience.

Looking back, this day not only marked the start of a beloved film but also reminded us of the unparalleled charm and humor of Amitabh Bachchan and Govinda, who brought the house down with their comic chemistry.

Also Read: 25 Years of Bade Miyan Chote Miyan EXCLUSIVE: “The response in the theatres was FANTASTIC. People would dance and throw coins during the songs, especially ‘Kisi Disco Mein Jaaye’ and ‘Makhna’” – Raveena Tandon

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