The Times of India

Reflecting on Sunny Leone's contentious start in Bollywood with Jism 2, Mahesh Bhatt revealed that her appearance on Bigg Boss played a crucial role in her casting. The film's distributor made a hefty investment, relying on her internet fame. However, the disconnect between the film's narrative and audience anticipation raised eyebrows, yet Jism 2 ultimately succeeded at the box office due to the intrigue it generated.

Rashmika Mandanna has opened up about a painful hip injury that has temporarily put her work commitments on hold. The actress, who was recently seen in Cocktail 2, shared a detailed health update on Instagram on Monday, revealing that she suffered the injury while filming a dance sequence for her upcoming film Mysaa.

During the promotion of his latest film Batwara 1947, Sunny Deol chose to steer clear of political discussions, instead referencing his father Dharmendra's lighthearted comment about Pakistan being akin to a maternal figure. He emphasized that the film was entirely filmed in India. Deol remains dedicated to storytelling over politics. This project marks the reunion of the acclaimed director Rajkumar Santoshi and Deol.

Vikrant Massey celebrated the success of his Netflix series 'Musafir Caf' at a Mumbai event, but it was his affectionate moment with his young niece that won over fans online. The actor also opened up about producing the show for the first time, saying he wanted to create opportunities for young talent the way he once received his own break nearly two decades ago.

Dipika Chikhlia acknowledges the audience's doubts regarding Sai Pallavi's portrayal of Sita. She foresees that once the film debuts, viewers will gradually embrace the new interpretation. It's common for there to be comparisons when iconic characters are adapted for a new era. Previously, Chikhlia noted that Sai Pallavi's look diverges from traditional representations. The upcoming Ramayana movie is set to hit theaters during Diwali 2026.

Natural Star Nani revealed an intense new look for his upcoming film 'The Paradise'. The actor shared a mysterious image featuring his character's unique braided hairstyle. The film's promotional song 'Aaya Sher' has achieved significant success, crossing two hundred million views. 'The Paradise' is slated for a worldwide theatrical release on August twenty-first, 2026. The movie will be available in eight different languages for a global audience.

The first full week of August brings an exciting mix of fresh OTT premieres, ranging from big-ticket originals and returning fan-favourite series to documentaries, animation and war dramas. Whether you're looking for an emotional love story, an inspiring sports comedy, a gripping historical drama or a fantasy adventure, streaming platforms have something for every kind of viewer this week.

Rakul Preet Singh, who plays Shurpanakha in Nitesh Tiwari and Namit Malhotra's magnum opus, 'Ramayana Part 1', responded to a fan's heartfelt letter on X (previously Twitter), revealing that the character's complexity was exactly what drew her to the role. The actress said she hopes audiences approach Shurpanakha's story with an open mind when the film releases, amid continued buzz around the 'Ramayana: The Introduction' trailer which dropped last week at Brahma Mahurat on July 30, 2026.

Shah Rukh Khan's film 'King' is confirmed for its December 24, 2026 release. The movie will face significant competition from three major Hollywood blockbusters. 'King' enjoys a home advantage due to Shah Rukh Khan's immense popularity in India. Internationally, the film's distributor will leverage its global appeal for screen placements. Postponing the release would have presented equally challenging competition in 2027.

Salman Khan made his anticipated appearance on Alliance, discussing his jail experiences. He also addressed Sohail Khan's difficult journey and contestant interactions. Sohail Khan faced challenges and expressed frustration with constant advice from Arslan Goni. Arslan Goni later apologized to Sohail Khan after a heated confrontation. The grand finale of Alliance is scheduled to air on August 7.

Travis Kelce is reportedly planning a country music album after his NFL career. His wedding performance served as a test run for this new musical endeavor. While some friends express doubts, Kelce remains optimistic about his future. He has a relentless drive and the support of Taylor Swift. This new chapter sees him trading the football field for the recording studio.

Actor R Madhavan purchased a yacht in Dubai, which was his costliest acquisition. This acquisition helped him achieve his ambition of earning a captain's license. He moved to Dubai to support his son Vedaant's swimming career and training. Madhavan also owns luxury cars and motorcycles in addition to his yacht. The yacht represents independence, family experiences, and mastering a new skill.

Bhumi Pednekar passionately addressed the devastating consequences of online harassment, recounting a troubling episode where a young protester was subjected to threats of rape and death. She underscored the long-term psychological scars such abuse can inflict. Pednekar called for unity and meaningful dialogues to foster national advancement, sparking renewed debates surrounding the boundaries of free speech and social media behavior.

Director Ram Gopal Varma has blamed the lack of director accountability and cost control for Telugu cinema's recurring financial troubles, citing an example of a senior actress who was paid Rs 1 crore for a 10-day call sheet despite shooting for only a single day. In a recent interview, RGV broke down why budgets spiral out of control and why flop films aren't the disaster the industry makes them out to be.

Podcast host Alex Cooper responded to a social media troll's dismissive pregnancy comments. She shared a screenshot of the man's message on August 2, 2026. Cooper highlighted that such messages often come from men. Last month, she revealed her gestational diabetes diagnosis to her followers. This condition involves high blood sugar that develops during pregnancy.

Dia Mirza now prioritizes emotional impact over screen time for film roles. She believes character resonance and truth are more important than role length. Early in her career, she declined projects based on perceived small parts. Mirza now understands that a character's depth anchors the overall narrative. She praises the nuanced and humanistic writing of 'Operation Safed Sagar'.

Kangana Ranaut hit back at critics reviving her old party videos, defending her right to change beliefs. She said she wants to convert into a Sanghi and embrace BJP-RSS ideology as an awakened Hindu, refusing to defend her past. She argued Hindu women deserve the same freedom to change without judgment.

Bulgarian-born actress Natalia Dontcheva has passed away at age fifty-six. She was known for her work in French cinema and television productions. Dontcheva battled health issues for nearly a decade before her death. Her stepson Hugo Selignac shared a heartfelt tribute on social media. Tributes poured in online from fans and colleagues remembering her.

Jennifer Lopez recreated Madonna's iconic 'Like a Virgin' music video in Venice. She shared a lively video reciting the hit song while traversing the canal. Lopez wore a white shirt and chunky gold jewelry, channeling the pop icon. The singer recently celebrated double birthdays with her sister in Europe. She also shared glimpses of Haute Couture Fashion Week and sister bonding.

Farhan Akhtar has exited the upcoming sports drama 'Lalkaara' due to scheduling conflicts. Sidhant Gupta will now portray a close friend of Aamir Khan's character. Aamir Khan is set to play Lala Amarnath in this period film. The movie reunites Khan with director Ashutosh Gowariker after their 'Lagaan' success. Principal photography for 'Lalkaara' begins on October 1 in Mumbai.

Filmmaker Jason Sanjay, son of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay, is preparing for his directorial debut. He studied filmmaking abroad and wrote a lengthy script while pursuing his education. His family's positive response provided him with significant confidence to enter the cinema industry. Jason Sanjay shares a close bond with his sister, Divya Saasha, who helped refine his film's story.

Nicole Kidman shared a clip honoring her bond with Sandra Bullock. The actresses will reprise their roles in the upcoming 'Practical Magic 2' sequel. They were seen laughing and answering interview questions on set. The film about the Owens sisters is scheduled for a 2026 release. Stockard Channing and Dianne Wiest also return for the movie.

Bhumi Pednekar faced backlash after urging NEET-UG protesters to avoid abusive language against PM Modi, without addressing the police violence during the July 20 Sansad March. Netizens called her selective, questioning her silence on lathi-charges and FIRs against protesters. The Cockroach Janta Party-led protests demanded education reforms, leading to Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation.

Aryan Khan recently obliged a fan with a selfie in London. He was seen leaving a casino with a female companion. This sighting fueled speculation about a new lady in his life. Aryan is reportedly working on his next directorial venture. His father, Shah Rukh Khan, is also busy with his upcoming film.

Director Jude Anthany Joseph recently announced the completion of the screenplay for his next film, which stars the esteemed Mohanlal in the lead. Previously, he approached Mohanlal for blessings ahead of the release of Thudakkam, a significant project as it introduces Vismaya Mohanlal, Mohanlal's daughter, to the film industry. Further details about the project will be revealed by the director in due course.

Nicki Minaj announced a new subscription service for exclusive content on her X account. Fans reacted with both support and criticism regarding this new paid offering. Some users questioned her financial needs for such a venture. Loyal supporters, however, embraced the new exclusive content space. Minaj has previously participated in platforms with similar creator monetization models.

In a heartfelt reflection, Vismaya Mohanlal recounted memorable travels through the Himalayas with her brother Pranav, contrasting their travel preferences: Pranav's upbeat spontaneity versus her organized methods. Vismaya also revealed her passion for poetry and painting, demonstrating a rich creative flair beyond acting. As she preps for her debut in Malayalam cinema with 'Thudakkam', fans eagerly await its release on August 7.

Katy Perry and Justin Trudeau displayed public affection during a beach holiday. The couple enjoyed a sun-soaked day, sharing kisses and embraces. They have been dating for a year and recently made their relationship public. Perry was previously engaged to Orlando Bloom and married to Russell Brand. Trudeau was married to Sophie Gregoire Trudeau and they co-parent three children.

Phil Collins faced a near-death hospitalisation in late 2023 due to alcohol addiction complications. His organs were failing, and family members prepared for his passing during this critical time. He expressed immense gratitude for surviving the life-threatening incident and has abstained from alcohol since. At 75, the renowned singer now hopes to find love and a new relationship again.

Antony Varghese's Malayalam action thriller Kattalan is set for its digital debut. The film, which completed its theatrical run, will now stream on ManoramaMAX. Makers officially confirmed the streaming destination through social media channels. While the exact release date remains unannounced, the film is coming soon. Kattalan explores survival and dangers within a forest landscape.

Matt Damon's stunt double, Devyn Dalton, has gained significant attention for her impressive physique. She expressed gratitude after Damon praised her arms, calling them the greatest he had ever seen. Dalton, who is 4 ft 6 in, was chosen to represent Damon's character in battle scenes. Her biceps have now garnered a dedicated fan club following the film's release. This recognition highlights the contributions of stunt performers in epic productions.

Tom Holland's new film 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' achieved a massive global opening weekend. This blockbuster start positions it as the second-highest opening in box office history. Holland is now the first actor to star in the four biggest global box office openings ever. His Marvel Cinematic Universe appearances have consistently drawn huge audiences worldwide. The actor's net worth is estimated at twenty-five million dollars despite these successes.

At the height of his fame, Stephen Baldwin stepped away from the Hollywood limelight. The birth of his daughter Alaia inspired him to embrace born-again Christianity, redirecting his passions toward ministry and youth outreach. Today, he focuses on producing Christian films and hosting a podcast, fully content with the spiritual journey he has chosen.

Vismaya Mohanlal reaffirms her stance supporting students protesting the NEET paper leak issue. She believes citizens should have freedom to question and express their opinions in a democracy. Dialogue should always take precedence over the use of force, she stated during an interview. Filmmaker Major Ravi defended her comments as compassionate and humanitarian, not political. Vismaya is preparing for her acting debut in an upcoming film scheduled for release soon.

Rihanna and A$AP Rocky marked their son Riot Rose's third birthday with a vibrant Spider-Man theme. Their home was adorned with colorful balloons and banners, setting a festive tone for the celebration. Guests were treated to a delightful cake bar featuring tailored slices with a variety of flavors and toppings.

At a recent film event, actor Suriya emphasized the importance of love and mutual respect in relationships, reminding audiences that affection should be openly shared every day. He pointed out the substantial sacrifices women often make, suggesting they deserve enhanced respect in return. Co-star Mamitha Baiju praised the experience of collaborating with Suriya. The much-anticipated film 'Vishwanath And Sons' will hit theaters on August 14.

Kunchacko Boban's latest film 'Unmadham' is currently running in theatres. Sony LIV is expected to secure the digital premiere rights for this mystery thriller. The movie features Kunchacko Boban as a police officer investigating a cold case. His screenplay aspirations intertwine with his police duties and a disturbing old file. The film's execution and premise have received praise from ETimes.

Huma Qureshi slammed trolls for criticising Kiara Advani's intimate scenes with Yash in Toxic's 'Tabaahi', calling it sick, disgusting. She noted Yash faced no similar backlash despite being married too, and said women in the film will have the last laugh. Trolls also targeted Kiara's husband, Sidharth Malhotra. Toxic releases August 26.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day achieved a historic Rs 300 crore opening weekend in India. This Marvel blockbuster became the first Hollywood film to reach this milestone. The film registered the biggest opening day for any non-Indian release. Its collections surpassed Rs 300 crore gross within just four days. This performance set a new benchmark for international films in India.

Jana Nayagan achieved a significant Rs 10.70 crore on its second Sunday. The film's India net collection reached Rs 175.60 crore after eleven days. Overseas markets contributed Rs 3 crore, pushing worldwide earnings to Rs 295.92 crore. Tamil version occupancy remained strong, especially during evening shows. This action drama is an official remake of a Telugu film.

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan was seen in London with his family. He appeared to be shielding his new grey hair look for the film 'King'. Fans gathered outside his London residence hoping for a glimpse of the actor. The film 'King' is highly anticipated and stars Suhana Khan. It is slated for a Christmas release, facing competition from major Hollywood films.

Ariana Grande will take a public break after her tour concludes on September first. She has also exited the West End production of Sunday in the Park With George. This decision follows fan concerns over her appearance in the 'Petal' music video. Actress Jameela Jamil and writer Charli Howard voiced worries about Grande's health. Grande is expected to return for the film 'Focker-in-Law' promotion.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day achieved a massive $355 million opening weekend. This performance made it the second-biggest North American debut ever. The film's global earnings reached $927 million in its initial release. This success contributed to the biggest weekend for North American movie theaters. Tom Holland's performance in the movie was highly praised by critics and audiences.

Dilip Kumar adopted his screen name fearing his father's strong disapproval of the film industry. His father, a strict Pathan, was against his son entering cinema. Devika Rani suggested the name Dilip Kumar, and he debuted in 1944. His early films struggled, but Jugnu became his first major box-office success. Andaaz in 1949 marked his breakthrough as a major Bollywood superstar.

Gitanjali Angmo admired Christopher Nolan's film and urged Bollywood to explore Indian epics. She suggested cinema shapes minds and should serve as a powerful classroom. This comes after Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike demanding examination reforms. Aamir Khan denied his film '3 Idiots' was inspired by Wangchuk's life. An old video of Khan meeting Wangchuk resurfaced online.

Shashwat Sachdev acknowledges his family's profound sacrifices and unwavering support for his musical journey. His parents dedicated their resources to his education, while his sister paused her own musical pursuits. His wife also made significant sacrifices after his move to Mumbai in 2017. Sachdev believes a divine energy guides his path, not solely his own efforts.

Actor Sudesh Berry shared he was first chosen for Darr's obsessive lover role. His costumes were ready, but makers reconsidered the casting decision. They felt a bigger actor was needed opposite Sudesh Berry for the climax. Berry believes destiny and blessings played a major role in stars' success. Shah Rukh Khan's career is attributed to destiny and divine favor.

Actress Nauheed Cyrusi candidly addressed her personal journey with pregnancy loss. She shared her emotional experiences after two miscarriages with her husband. The couple found new purpose and joy in adopting a special needs dog. They have also dedicated themselves to animal welfare work over the years. Nauheed explained her decision against further fertility treatments for now.