Tag: Bollywood

The popular romantic film ‘Dhadkan’, starring Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and Shilpa Shetty, is all set to re-release in cinemas on May 23. The film originally came out on August 11, 2000, and is now being brought back as part of a special celebration of iconic Bollywood movies.
Directed by Dharmesh Darshan, ‘Dhadkan’ is a love story filled with emotion, drama, and heartbreak. Shilpa Shetty plays Anjali, a woman in love with Dev played by Suniel Shetty. But her family forces her to marry Ram, played by Akshay Kumar, a kind and successful man. Years later, Dev returns into her life, but by then, Anjali has started loving her husband. The story becomes a complicated love triangle that touched the hearts of many when it first released.
‘Dhadkan’ was a big hit at the box office, earning around Rs 26 crore worldwide. Its music was a major highlight, with unforgettable songs composed by Nadeem–Shravan and lyrics by Sameer. The soundtrack became the second highest-selling album of 2000, just after ‘Mohabbatein’. Songs like ‘Dil Ne Yeh Kaha Hai Dil Se’ and ‘Tum Dil Ki Dhadkan Mein’ are still loved today.
Now, the movie will return to theatres in a digitally remastered format, making the viewing experience even better. The re-release will take place in selected theatres across India
Along with the main leads, ‘Dhadkan’ also featured veteran actors like Sharmila Tagore, Parmeet Sethi, Kiran Kumar, Sushma Seth, and Manjeet Kullar, who added depth to the emotional story.
On the work front, Suniel Shetty was last seen in Netflix’s romantic-comedy ‘Nadaaniyan’ with Ibrahim Ali Khan and Khushi Kapoor. He will next appear in the action film ‘Kesari Veer’, alongside Sooraj Pancholi and Vivek Oberoi. Akshay Kumar recently acted in ‘Kesari: Chapter 2’ and will soon be seen in the horror-comedy ‘Bhooth Bangla’ with Wamiqa Gabbi, Tabu, and Paresh Rawal.

The much-awaited trailer of Aamir Khan’s ‘Sitaare Zameen Par’, a spiritual sequel to the 2007 film Taare Zameen Par, was released on May 13. 18 years after the original film, Sitaare Zameen Par promises another heartwarming and joyful story, with a few new twists. In the three-minute trailer, Aamir Khan plays a basketball coach to a team of specially-abled children, setting the stage for an inspiring and entertaining narrative laced with emotion and humour. Genelia Deshmukh stars as his love interest in the drama.
Sharing the trailer on social media, the official Instagram handle of Aamir’s production channel captioned, “1 Tingu Basketball Coach, 10 Toofani SITAARE aur unki journey.Watch #SitaareZameenPar #SabkaApnaApnaNormal, 20th June Only In Theatres. Trailer Out Now (sic).”
The film that carries the tagline “Sabka Apna Apna Normal”, which champions inclusivity and aims to resonate deeply with audiences.
Besides Aamir and Genelia, Sitaare Zameen Par introduces a team of debutants: Aroush Datta, Gopi Krishna Varma, Samvit Desai, Vedant Sharma, Ayush Bhansali, Ashish Pendse, Rishi Shahani, Rishabh Jain, Naman Mishra, and Simran Mangeshkar.
Directed by RS Prasanna, popular for for his film Shubh Mangal Saavdhan, Sitaare Zameen Par has been made under the banner of Aamir Khan Productions. The songs are composed by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy and the lyrics are penned by Amitabh Bhattacharya. Sitaare Zameen Par is set to release in theatres on June 20, 2025.

Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna’s much-awaited vampire comedy, ‘Thama’ has reportedly entered its final phase of filming. Directed by Aditya Sarpotdar, the film’s last and most crucial schedule began on April 28 in the misty hillscapes of Ooty, Tamil Nadu, and will continue through May 25.
According to a report in Mid-Day, the team is currently stationed around Doddabetta Peak in the Nilgiri forests, shooting important sequences involving the lead pair’s love story as well as the film’s climax. “Starting April 28, Ayushmann and Rashmika filmed their portions in the forests of Ooty. They are currently filming in and around Doddabetta Peak. In this leg, the director will shoot some portions of the love story between the leads. After Nawazuddin joins the unit in the third week of May, they will shoot the backstory of how he became a vampire, and the climax,” a source told the publication.
Nawazuddin Siddiqui, who plays a vampire with a shadowy past, is expected to join the unit in mid-May. His character’s origin story, which is set in the past, is a key component of the film’s narrative and will be shot during this schedule.
‘Thama’, derived from the name Ashwatthama—the immortal warrior from the Mahabharata—is a genre-bending mix of comedy, horror, and mythology. The story revolves around a historian, played by Ayushmann, who sets out to uncover the mythological roots of vampirism in Indian folklore. Set across two time periods, the plot moves between modern-day India and the ancient kingdom of Vijayanagar, tied together by a haunting tale of unfulfilled love.
Once the Ooty schedule wraps up, only two songs remain to be filmed. The makers, in their announcement video, revealed that they are aiming for a Diwali 2025 release.

Rewinding back to a fallout between Karan Johar and Kartik Aaryan in 2021, the makers of Dostana 2 shared an official post on a recasting to take place for the film. The official announcement by Dharma Productions confirmed that Kartik Aaryan was no longer a part of the project.
For the unversed, Dostana 2 was set to be Lakshya’s big Bollywood debut. However, it was Kill in 2024, the action thriller that marked a promising debut by Lakshya.
Now, according to an exclusive report by News18 Showsha, Sreeleela who has been gaining a lot of popularity lately, might replace Janhvi Kapoor in Dostana 2. Sreeleela is also currently busy shooting for Anurag Basu’s untitled musical with Kartik Aaryan. There is also a lot of online buzz about Kartik Aaryan and Sreeleela dating.
A close source has told News18, “The story of Dostana 2 will remain the same but the cast and the director have been changed. Janhvi Kapoor, who was roped in to play the female lead earlier, is no longer a part of the film. Instead, the makers are considering Sreeleela for the part. Her dance number in Pushpa 2: The Rule has made her a much sought-after name in the movies. And the team of Dostana 2 are extremely keen on having her in the film.”
The source further added, “There’s a lot of demand and positive word-of-mouth for Sreeleela, who is currently shooting for Anurag Basu’s next with Kartik Aaryan. The makers of Dostana 2 decided to recast the film, hoping to feature a set of actors who haven’t shared screen space in the past. It will indeed be interesting to see her chemistry with her co-stars.”
The source concluded by saying that previously Collin D’Cunha of Call Me Bae fame was supposed to direct Dostana 2. But there are ongoing talks about Advait Chandan now taking over the director’s seat.

Actor Bhumi Pednekar says her debut web series “The Royals” is a blend of modern-day “Bridgerton” and “Schitt’s Creek”, capturing the dysfunctional dynamics of a royal family with a touch of comedy and romance. Billed as a modern-day rom-com, the Netflix show stars Ishaan Khatter as Aviraaj Singh, a reluctant new-age prince, and Pednekar as Sophia Shekhar, a self-made CEO of a start-up, who team up to transform the former’s haveli into a luxury B&B experience.
As their journey unfolds, viewers can expect a rollercoaster ride of romance, comedy and a whole lot of drama, reads the official synopsis.
“It is (like) a modern-day ‘Bridgerton’ because of the setting and the world that’s been created, but definitely a bit of ‘Schitt’s Creek’ because there’s the royal family and the dysfunctionality and everything that happens with them.
“But I grew up reading ‘Mills & Boon’ (romance novels), and I’m a very, very big fan of it. This (‘The Royals’) is a very classic boy-girl romance. It’s just that there’s no damsel-in-distress. It’s refreshing,” Pednekar told PTI in an interview.
“Bridgerton” is a British costume drama set in the 19th century’s regency era, whereas the Canadian show “Schitt’s Creek” follows the trials and tribulations of the formerly wealthy Rose family. Both series are available on Netflix.
“The Royals” is created by Rangita and Ishita Pritish Nandy and directed by Priyanka Ghose and Nupur Asthana.
While romance is at the core of “The Royals”, the series ambitiously delves into larger themes such as privilege, power dynamics, and the complexities of contemporary life, including the entourage trend and the use of artificial intelligence (AI).
Calling AI a “disruptive” tool, Pednekar said one must use this technological innovation “responsibly”.

Bollywood’s obsession with following the same formula knows no bounds. When one period drama does well, there’s a sudden influx in the genre. Whether it’s churning out back-to-back biopics or giving action lovers an adrenaline rush, the industry is infamous for lacking original ideas. Currently, its latest fixation seems to be horror-comedies. After the success of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, Stree 2, and more, many have hit theatres, and many more are still in the pipeline. The latest to arrive in cinema halls is The Bhootni — and it’s everything but scary or funny!
At Saint Vincent College of Arts and Culture, which seems to be inspired a lot by colleges in Karan Johar’s Student Of The Year films, stands a huge Virgin Tree (yep, that’s what it’s called). The story follows three friends — Shantanu (played by Sunny Singh of Pyaar Ka Punchnama fame), Sahil, and Naseer. While our hero is out there hunting for his “sachhi mohabbat,” the other two are just happy looking for any girl who’ll give them attention. Life’s all sunshine and shooting stars until Shantanu gets dumped by his girlfriend. Heartbroken, he does what any sensible man wouldn’t — begs a tree to help him find the girl of his dreams. And then enters Palak Tiwari’s Ananya, who, plot twist, has already friend-zoned him. How this mess turns into a supernatural love triangle is basically the whole plot.
Sanjay Dutt as Baba Krishna Tripath takes matters into his own, very tired hands, when The Bhootni (Mouni Roy) starts strangling college students. What follows is 2 hours and 10 minutes of a full-on yawn-fest with a side of cringe.
Sunny, who once charmed us as Chauka and Sonu, seems to have mastered the art of being the dependable second lead. But here, he doesn’t just fail to shine, he barely flickers. Whether it’s the lazy writing or his own lack of effort, he spends most of the film looking like he’s reading lines off a teleprompter. He’s neither charming nor watchable. The only moments he shows a spark are when other characters accidentally drag some acting out of him. Honestly, he comes across like that guy in a group project — unprepared, hoping the rest of the team will carry him through.

Actor Deepika Padukone might just be back on-screen to reunite with Shah Rukh Khan in his upcoming film ‘King’. Speculations have been rife for sometime about Padukone joining the big Bollywood debut of Suhana Khan, which is being directed by Siddharth Anand. However, it seems like she has finally given her dates for the shoot.
A report in Pinkvilla suggested that Padukone’s dates matched the shooting schedule of the film. “Shah Rukh Khan was always clear to have Deepika Padukone on board ‘King’. Initially, the dates did not match as Deepika was taking time off to be with the newborn kid, and also hitting the gym to get back in shape. Due to a delay in the schedule of ‘King’, the timelines are aligned, and she is back on board the film,” the source said.
The report also mentioned that Deepika Padukone’s role in the film is not just a blink-and-miss appearance. The actor is not making a cameo in ‘King’ as reported earlier, but has a ‘full-length role’.
A source close to the production also said, “After all the discussions and setting the shoot timelines, everything has aligned well to have Deepika Padukone on board the film.”
The actor is expected to begin shooting for her performance in the second half of the year, while the film prepares for a grand release in the second half of 2026. “She will be shooting for her role in the second half of 2025. It’s a full-length role, and a lot more than just a cameo as reported before,” the source said.
This is the fifth time that Shah Rukh and Deepika Padukone will be seen together on-screen. After her debut pairing in Bollywood with ‘Om Shanti Om’, the two have teamed up in films like ‘Happy New Year’, ‘Pathaan’ and ‘Jawan’.
‘King’ also stars Abhishek Bachchan and Jaideep Ahlawat in important roles.

Actor Saif Ali Khan is back on set following the tragic stabbing incident at his Bandra residence earlier this year. He has commenced filming his upcoming project with filmmaker Rahul Dholakia, known for critically acclaimed films like Raees and Parzania. The film is reportedly a historical political drama.
According to The Hollywood Reporter India, Saif will portray India’s first Chief Election Commissioner, Sukumar Sen. The film also features actor Pratik Gandhi, and the two recently shot a sequence in Mumbai.
“The cast and crew are currently filming the Mumbai schedule and are nearly halfway through it. The film explores one of the most significant chapters in India’s political history and features a stellar ensemble,” a source told the publication.
The report further states that Saif was initially scheduled to begin filming in January, but the plans were delayed due to the unfortunate stabbing incident. He spent several days in the hospital and underwent a four-hour surgery.

Abir Gulaal, a Hindi film featuring Pakistani star Fawad Khan in the lead, will not be allowed to release in India in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, government sources has said.
Directed by Aarti S Bagdi and also starring Vaani Kapoor, the movie was set to make its debut in Indian cinemas on May 9. “The movie Abir Gulaal, starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan, will not be allowed to release in India,” the sources said.
The action comes amid calls for a ban on the movie after 26 people, mostly tourists, were gunned down in a terror attack in South Kashmir’s Pahalgam on Tuesday. It is being described as the deadliest attack in the Valley since the Pulwama strike in 2019.
On April 23, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) reiterated its directive to ban Pakistani artists. They called for a complete non-cooperation with all Pakistani artists, singers, and technicians within the Indian film and entertainment industry.
“Despite the ongoing directive, we’ve been made aware of the recent collaboration with Pakistani actor Fawad Khan for the Hindi film, Abir Gulaal.
“In light of the recent attack in Pahalgam, FWICE is once again compelled to issue a blanket boycott on all Pakistani artists, singers and technicians participating in any Indian film or entertainment projects. This includes performances or collaborations occurring anywhere in the world,” the FWICE said in a statement.
The industry workers’ union, which had issued a similar directive in February 2019 after the Pulwama terror attack, also warned that it will take disciplinary action against those who work with Pakistani artists.
Fawad, whose last Hindi film appearance in 2016’s Ae Dil Hai Mushkil also ran in trouble post the Uri terror strike, condemned the Pahalgam attack on his Instagram Story on Wednesday night.
“Deeply saddened to hear the news of the heinous attack in Pahalgam. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this horrifying incident, and we pray for strength and healing for their families in this difficult time,” the Zindagi Gulzar Hai star wrote.
Vaani also condemned the loss of lives in Pahalgam.
“Have been numb, at a loss of words since the time I have seen the attack on innocent people in Pahalgam. Gutted. Devastated. My prayers are with the families,” she wrote on her Instagram Stories.
Earlier this month, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), led by Raj Thackeray, had also opposed the release of Abir Gulaal.
Abir Gulaal is produced by Indian Stories Production, along with A Richer Lens and Aarjay Pictures. Vivek B Agrawal, Avantika Hari and Rakesh Sippy are credited as producers on the movie.

Tamannaah Bhatia seems to have become the face of item numbers in Bollywood. The actor belly dances her way through ‘Nasha’ in Ajay Devgn’s Raid 2. Her look and dance movements are very similar to her chart-topping number ‘Aaj Ki Raat’ from Stree 2.
Dressed in a cream-and-gold chiffon skirt with a thigh-high slit, and gold bustier, Tamannaah’s look from the film has gone viral. Several netizens predicted that ‘Nasha’ would be the dance number of the year. Some even went to the extent of saying Tamannah Bhatia is giving the Queen of Dance, Nora Fatehi, stiff competition.
“Ironical. Nora Fatehi, from dancing, has now taken to acting in films. While Tamanaah is doing the opposite,” wrote one social media user.
An industry insider revealed that the actor had signed a three-film deal with Ajay Devgn Films, and Raid 2 was the first of the lot. “Hindi films haven’t given Tamannaah the platform she deserves. Babli Bouncer failed, followed by Plan A Plan B, and her recent Sikandar Ka Muqaddar. These were all OTT releases. ‘Aaj Ki Raat ‘ became a sensation and played a large part in Stree 2’s success. It’s a win-win for her.

Kiara Advani is all set to welcome her first child with her actor-husband Sidharth Malhotra. Reportedly, the actress will make her Met Gala debut this year.
At Cannes last year, Kiara was a part of the Women In Cinema panel. The panel, hosted by the Red Sea International Film Festival, took place at La Plage Des Palmes.
Kiara Advani attended the event in an elegant orange ruched gown, accentuated with gold earrings. Her hair was styled in a braided updo with a middle parting. ICYDK, the couple announced the pregnancy last month. They shared a picture wherein they can be seen holding white baby socks in their hands. The caption read, “The greatest gift of our lives. Coming soon.” As soon as the couple dropped the post, B-town celebrities flooded the comment section with congratulatory messages. Kiara and Sidharth married on February 7, 2023. The couple’s wedding, held in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, was an intimate and dreamy affair, attended by close friends and family, including Karan Johar, Shahid Kapoor, Mira Rajput and Manish Malhotra.

Going under the knife to look younger might have become a norm for many in showbiz, but Kareena Kapoor doesn’t prefer that. Instead, the actor has her own ways and tricks to steer away from botox.

Kareena recently attended the launch event for nutritionist Rutuja Diwekar’s recent book, The Commonsense Diet, in Mumbai. At the event, the actor spoke about embracing her age, and her own set of strategies to keep her skin looking healthy and radiant without relying on such procedures.

Expressing her desire to be fit and healthy in the later years of her life, Kareena shares, “For that, I need to eat right with her (Rutuja) guidance. That’s what for me, ageing and life is. I love it, I’m embracing it, but I’m taking all these particular things, like eating ghee, eating khichdi, doing a little bit of weight training for muscle strength, walking a little, my Surya Namaskars, doing my little work on my own rather than skin treatments and botox”.

Kareena also opened up about her relationship with food. The mother of two shared, “In my early years when I was chubby, my relationship with food was amazing. It’s not like I ever tried to starve myself. I’m very comfortable in my own skin. In my teenage years also, I think I was always really happy to pick up a packet of chips. But I was a confident girl… In the last 10–15 years, I have just gone back to the same food. I’m always very happy with it. Because whether it’s good for me or bad for me, I just love the fact that it comforts me, it makes me feel happy. I feel amazing. And that’s the most important thing for me”.

On the work front, Kareena had three projects in 2024- Crew, The Buckingham Murders and Singham Again. The last of the three was directed by Rohit Shetty and featured Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, Ranveer Singh, and Deepika Padukone in lead roles. She is working with Raazi director Meghna Gulzar for her next film.