The Times of India
Elections 2026Bollywood / The Times of India
Mammootty and Mohanlal's spy thriller 'Patriot' is experiencing a slowdown in Indian box office collections, now earning under Rs 10 lakh daily. Despite this, strong overseas performance has propelled the film's worldwide gross towards Rs 80 crore. The movie, a political thriller about a surveillance scandal, has garnered praise for Mohanlal's powerful portrayal and technical excellence.
Harry Styles kicked off his expansive 'Together Together' tour in Amsterdam, featuring a 50-stop global residency. The ambitious undertaking, spanning May to December, includes a significant New York leg with 30 dates. The tour champions charitable causes like Choose Love and HeadCount, while also prioritizing environmental sustainability through Live Nation's Green Nation initiative.
Riteish Deshmukh's historical epic 'Raja Shivaji' is impressing audiences despite initial doubts, chronicling the life of warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The film has achieved a significant box office milestone, nearing Rs 96 crore gross collection. Despite some VFX critiques, the cast and crew's dedication to a tight budget is highlighted, with Abhishek Bachchan emphasizing the disparity with Hollywood productions. Read on to know more in detail.
Rapper Vedan is facing a daunting legal hurdle as scientific examinations verify that a tiger tooth featured on his necklace is indeed legitimate. The Kerala Forest Department is gearing up to file formal charges following this revelation during an unrelated investigation. Although Vedan insists that the necklace was a present, the source of the gift has yet to be identified.
Bulgaria's Dara triumphed at Eurovision 2026 in Vienna with 'Bangaranga', securing 516 points. While no cash prize is awarded, Dara received the coveted Crystal Microphone trophy. This win, like those of past legends ABBA and Celine Dion, promises significant international music career opportunities. Israel and Romania followed in the 70th edition.
Anthems have a long tradition of bringing people together and representing a community, but only a few can make people get up and dance their hearts out. Many prominent singers, across the globe, have collaborated to perform their songs at the FIFA World Cup. In 2026, Shakira, Madonna, and BTS will co-headline at the Final Halftime Show in New Jersey, USA. The performance will be curated by Chris Martin of Coldplay. However, there have been many performers in the past that the fans just cant get
Actor Ravi Mohan has publicly detailed marital struggles, alleging emotional distress and interference from an unnamed actress. Social media speculates this refers to Khushbu Sundar, who responded cryptically on X. Mohan also claimed his wife pressured him into marriage and spoke of financial difficulties and alleged black magic, stating he's suffering immensely.
Tovino Thomas's latest comedy-drama, 'Athiradi', has captivated audiences and smashed box office records, earning a phenomenal 33.89 crore globally within its first three days. With standout performances by Basil Joseph and Vineeth Sreenivasan, the film has received glowing reviews, highlighted by ETimes' impressive 4-star rating for its striking visuals and engaging narrative.
Ayushmann Khurrana's 'Pati Patni Aur Woh Do' debuted with a respectable Rs 4 crore and surged by 43% on its second day to clinch Rs 5.75 crore. The film's total earnings stand at Rs 9.75 crore net in India and Rs 2 crore internationally, though it fell short of matching its 2019 counterpart's weekend performance. Read on to know more in detail.
Suriya's 'Karuppu' is setting the box office ablaze, boasting a remarkable 51% increase in earnings on its second day with an impressive Rs 23.40 crore. This gripping tale of a lawyer standing up to a deity has struck a chord with viewers, especially in Tamil Nadu, where ticket sales remain robust.
Nearly five decades after its release, Sholay continues to remain one of Indian cinemas most iconic films. But according to actor-writer Shadaab Khan, son of legendary actor Amjad Khan, the film was not instantly embraced by audiences when it first hit theatres in 1975. Shadaab recalled a fascinating anecdote once narrated to him by late actor Tom Alter about how dramatically opinions around Sholay changed within just a few months of its release.
Over the years, Salman Khan has established himself as one of Bollywoods biggest action stars, pulling off everything from gravity-defying jumps to intense combat scenes on screen. While audiences often cheer for these larger-than-life moments in theatres, the actor recently revealed that some of these sequences came dangerously close to turning into real-life accidents.
As Vicky Kaushal turned 38 on May 16, wife Katrina Kaif made the day extra special with a heartfelt birthday note that gave fans a rare glimpse into their life as parents. Along with unseen pictures from the intimate celebration, Katrina also shared an adorable moment featuring their baby boy and a special cake that read, Happy Birthday Papa.
After spending nearly 15 years immersed in theatre, Ranjana Aanjjan has finally stepped into the world of screen acting with Chand Tara a project that has already earned the distinction of having its trailer screened at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. In this candid conversation with ETimes, Ranjana opens up about the overwhelming transition from stage to screen, her fathers unwavering support, the financial struggles that shaped her middle-class upbringing, and the life lessons she learn
Some actors turn down roles because of scheduling conflicts, creative differences, or simply bad timing. But every once in a while, a rejected role becomes legendary and changes someone elses career forever. Here are 10 actors who walked away from parts that later became some of the most iconic performances in film history.
Salman Khan may be one of Bollywoods biggest stars, but the actor says the first luxurious thing he ever purchased after entering films was for his father, veteran writer Salim Khan. And to buy it, he had to borrow money. In a recent conversation, Salman recalled taking a loan to purchase a Rolex watch for his father at a time when he had barely started earning.
Twinkle Khanna recently opened up about a fascinating prediction made by her late father Rajesh Khanna's astrologer, who foresaw her future with Akshay Kumar long before they were ever introduced. It's intriguing to think how the universe works, especially considering that this connection solidified after the disappointing outcome of her film 'Mela.
Just days after officially announcing their separation, Mouni Roy and Suraj Nambiar have once again started following each other on Instagram, hinting that the former couple is trying to maintain an amicable equation despite their split. On May 14, Mouni and Suraj officially confirmed their separation through a joint Instagram statement.
Malavika Mohanan recently found herself dealing with an uncomfortable situation during a media interaction after she was asked a question involving Vijay and Trisha Krishnan. The actress responded sharply at the event, and after the clip began circulating widely on social media, she took to X to clarify her stance and call for respectful interactions.
Actor Belmont Cameli's selfless act of donating a kidney to a stranger initiated a remarkable 14-person chain, ultimately saving seven lives, including his childhood friend Brendan Flaherty. This complex organ swap, requiring immense patience and coordination, highlights Cameli's profound generosity. His inspiring story has resurfaced as his career gains momentum, drawing attention to this life-altering kindness.
Pooja Bedi recently opened up about her unconventional childhood, revealing how her parents actor Kabir Bedi and legendary classical dancer-model Protima Bedi raised her with complete freedom and very few rules. Interestingly, the actress also admitted that despite growing up in such an open environment, she eventually became a much stricter parent herself.
Australia's own Delta Goodrem has reached the Eurovision 2026 Grand Final in Vienna with her song 'Eclipse'. Millions worldwide will watch as she competes tonight, May 17th, at 5 am AEST, with a primetime replay at 7:30 pm AEST on SBS. This marks a significant moment for Australia on the world's largest music stage.
Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur has endorsed John Abraham for the next James Bond role, citing his screen presence and Bond Charm. Abraham responded with gratitude, humorously noting he'd practice his martini order. The suggestion ignited social media debate, with users proposing other actors and discussing Abraham's suitability. Abraham's next project is a biographical drama.
Pooja Bedi candidly shared her journey, admitting acting wasn't her forte but she excelled as a sex symbol. She reflected on her marriage to Farhan Furniturewala, valuing their children and his continued friendship post-divorce. Bedi emphasized her decision to separate was for her well-being, finding happiness in both marriage and divorce.
Priyanka Chopra shared a delightful Instagram photo dump, offering fans a glimpse into her current era. The collection featured adorable moments with her daughter Malti Marie, including a heartwarming picture of Malti with a horse and a sweet video of her smiling.
Aditi Rao Hydari captivated fans with a recent social media post showcasing her in a traditional saree, humorously remarking on its 'revolutionary' styling. The actress, adorned in an intricately embroidered brown saree and a statement necklace, exuded royal charm. This follows her heartfelt birthday wish for husband Siddharth, whom she affectionately calls her 'manicorn'.
Gujarati film 'Laalo - Krishna Sada Sahaayate' has made history as the first from the language to be showcased at the Cannes Film Festival. The achievement is being celebrated as a significant milestone for regional Indian cinema, with the team expressing gratitude and hope for future growth.
In an unexpected twist, old praises from Kareena Kapoor about Abhishek Bachchan's talent have come to light, dating back to before their film debut in 'Refugee.' She predicted that he would eclipse the illustrious legacy of his father, Amitabh Bachchan, and regarded him as a dear companion.
Ayushmann Khurrana confessed to behaving like a deep red flag in his early relationship with Tahira Kashyap, even breaking up with her at 20 to focus on himself after winning 'MTV Roadies'. Now, he humorously labels himself a green flag husband, reflecting on his journey and even revealing a past sperm donation during a 'Roadies' task.
Daniel Craig, renowned for his James Bond role, expressed profound exhaustion after filming 'Spectre', even stating he'd rather self-harm than reprise the part. He admitted a return would only be for financial reasons, highlighting the struggle between the character's demands and his acting instincts. Craig poured everything into 'Spectre', contributing script ideas and ensuring Sam Mendes' return.
Hollywood power couple Jason Statham and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley are building a $33 million 'forever home' on England's South Coast. The striking, U-shaped brutalist design features five bedrooms, a private beach, and extensive grounds including a lake and treehouse. This move signifies Rosie's return to her rural roots, seeking a slower, grounded lifestyle away from a 'destination-driven' existence.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are making headlines with their stylish date nights, sparking wedding rumors. From blue hues in NYC to edgy black ensembles in London, the couple consistently turns heads. Their coordinated outfits, featuring florals and classic styles, fuel speculation about their upcoming nuptials and even potential album hints.
Actor Imran Khan candidly discussed the emotional challenges of navigating single fatherhood. He shared that some parents hesitate to set up playdates for his daughter, Imara, due to societal perceptions of him being a single dad.
Tamil cinema's top brass has presented a wish list to Chief Minister Vijay, seeking tax relief, streamlined shoot permits, and robust anti-piracy measures. Producers and theatre owners are pushing for abolished local body taxes, lower electricity tariffs, and a single-window system for approvals, aiming to revitalize the industry amidst digital challenges.
Tyson Fury's eldest daughter, Venezuela, is set to marry fianc Noah Price this weekend in a lavish ceremony on the Isle of Man, reportedly filmed for their reality show. While proud mother Paris has been heavily involved in planning, Tyson admits zero involvement.
Superstar Rajinikanth's high praise for Mohanlal at the 'Jailer' audio launch continues to resonate. He lauded Mohanlal as a great actor and astonishing human being, highlighting their rare on-screen collaboration. This powerful pairing, alongside other industry stars, significantly boosted 'Jailer's' pan-India appeal and became a major talking point for fans eagerly awaiting their joint appearance.
Bollywood's 'Mr Perfectionist', Aamir Khan, has finally addressed persistent rumors of him secretly directing films. He clarified that he has officially directed only one movie, 'Taare Zameen Par', emphasizing that the success of his other projects lies with the directors, writers, and technicians. Khan highlighted the diverse visions in his filmography as proof he doesn't control every aspect.
At the Cannes Film Market, buzz is electrifying for 'The Housemaid's Secret,' the much-awaited sequel to 'The Housemaid.' With pre-sales soaring to an impressive USD 70-80 million, this project is set to maximize its storytelling potential, spotlighting Sydney Sweeney and Michele Morrone in prominent roles next to Kirsten Dunst.
Australian music icon Delta Goodrem has captured the hearts of Eurovision fans, leading the Audience Poll for the 2026 Grand Final with an impressive 15.5% of the total votes. While we await the final verdict, previous polls have shown that public opinion can sometimes diverge from the official outcome.
Cricket superstar Virat Kohli attributes his transition to a vegetarian lifestyle to the influence of his wife, Anushka Sharma. This change wasn't just about health; it was a reflection of their shared empathy for animals. As new parents, the couple now delves into a world of culinary adventures together, reaffirming their dedication to a mindful and harmonious living.
Saif Ali Khan lauded Shah Rukh Khan's early career confidence, highlighting his bold salary negotiations and unwavering belief in his worth. Saif revealed SRK's conviction in his body language and vision, which he credits for building a phenomenal empire and defining a generation of Bollywood. SRK's image, Saif noted, is synonymous with Bollywood itself. Read on to know more in detail.
Aarti Ravi has issued a strong statement on social media, warning against disturbing a sleeping lioness and asserting her readiness to protect her dignity and children. This follows emotional press interactions from Ravi Mohan, who spoke about his divorce and children, and Keneeshaa Francis's departure from social media amidst trolling.
Hollywood star John Travolta recounted a terrifying near-death experience during a London premiere. He revealed a total electrical failure over Washington D.C. in 1992, with his family aboard, leaving him believing he would die. Miraculously, he managed an emergency landing, a harrowing event that inspired his role in 'The Shepherd'.
Actor Ravi Mohan has broken his silence on his divorce from Aarti, addressing rumors linking singer Keneeshaa Francis to their separation. He emotionally stated his silence was not weakness and vowed to not act until his divorce is finalized. Mohan also expressed pain over not being allowed to see his children.
Supermodel Kendall Jenner and actor Jacob Elordi are reportedly enjoying a budding romance, recently spotted vacationing in Hawaii and grabbing breakfast in Los Angeles. Their connection, which began a few months ago, has sparked fan excitement, with earlier sightings at the Vanity Fair Oscars Party and Coachella. Both have navigated high-profile relationships in the past.
Director Buchi Babu Sana revealed Janhvi Kapoor was cast in 'Peddi' after her sister Khushi Kapoor, initially considered, was deemed too young for the role. The filmmaker described the awkward but necessary conversation with both sisters, emphasizing Janhvi's suitability for the character. The sports drama, starring Ram Charan, releases June 4, 2026. Read on to know more in detail.
Customs officials have seized a Nissan Patrol linked to actor Dulquer Salmaan as part of 'Operation Numkhor,' an investigation into a luxury SUV smuggling network. The vehicle, featured in Salmaan's film 'Lucky Baskhar,' is suspected of being illegally imported from Bhutan to evade taxes. Authorities are verifying the actor's ownership and the broader racket involving forged registrations.
In a bold social media stand, Alec Baldwin has come to Lupita Nyong'o's defense after Elon Musk voiced discontent over her casting as Helen of Troy in Christopher Nolan's 'Odyssey.' Musk's comments aimed at questioning Nolan's casting choices sparked a wave of backlash, with Baldwin praising Nyong'o's talent and striking presence.
Fans are buzzing with theories about 'Dhurandhar 3' following the OTT release of 'Dhurandhar: The Revenge'. Easter eggs like a passport with a new identity and a 'Sep 2026' hint suggest a sequel. Co-producer Jyoti Deshpande hinted the franchise isn't over, with a surprise by late 2026.
Hollywood's rising stars, Chase Infiniti and Tyriq Withers, are reportedly dating. Spotted together at high-profile events like the F1 Grand Prix and a post-Met Gala party, their romance has been the subject of much speculation. While Infiniti has playfully alluded to their frequent interactions, neither has officially confirmed the relationship. Both actors are also busy with upcoming projects.

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