The Times of India News

Ranveer Singh and Akshaye Khanna's spy thriller 'Dhurandhar' is making waves, nearing Rs 250 crore in its second week and surpassing Rs 500 crore in India gross collections. The film has become Ranveer Singh's highest-grossing movie globally, outperforming 'Padmaavat' and is now set to enter the Rs 1000 crore club.

Nandamuri Balakrishna's 'Akhanda 2: Thaandavam' continues its strong box office performance, amassing Rs 73.85 crore net in India by Day 6. The action-packed film, directed by Boyapati Srinu, maintained steady collections even after the initial weekend. Telugu occupancy remained stable, with evening and night shows showing good traction.

From Rob Reiner's stabbing, to Zubeen Garg's drowning and Matthew Perry's overdose, heres a look at some of the most high-profile and mysterious celebrity deaths that trigger full-fledged murder investigations, exposing disturbing details, legal battles and unanswered questions.

Nick Reiner faced his first court appearance on two first-degree murder charges for allegedly killing his parents, actor-director Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner. The couple died from multiple sharp force injuries. Their other children expressed unimaginable pain, while friends like Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal mourned the loss of the beloved couple.

Selena Gomez addressed an intrusive question about her appearance after a follower asked how she shaves her upper lip. In a makeup-free Instagram video, she explained the dark patch is melasma, a common skin condition caused by sun exposure, not facial hair. Gomez used the moment to clarify misinformation and stress sunscreen use.

Akhilendra Mishra has reflected on how Lagaan became a turning point for Indian cinema on the global stage and how Aamir Khan played a crucial role in paving the way for future Indian films at the Oscars. In a recent interview, Mishra revisited the skepticism the film initially faced and the historic shift it eventually brought about.

Gaiety Galaxy owner Manoj Desai recounted Amitabh Bachchan's poignant remark at Rajesh Khanna's funeral, highlighting Khanna's notorious tardiness. Bachchan reportedly quipped about waiting two hours for Khanna on set, now experiencing a similar delay for his final rites. This anecdote sheds light on Khanna's legendary, albeit problematic, stardom and the eventual career decline that followed.

Nargis's return to a Kapoor family event after 24 years, following her real-life romance with Raj Kapoor, was met with her unease. Raj's wife, Krishna Kapoor, displayed remarkable grace, reassuring Nargis and fostering a sense of friendship. This chapter, acknowledged by Rishi Kapoor and Ritu Nanda, highlights familial understanding amidst past complexities.

Leslee Lewis, the singer-performer who helped shape Indias pop revolution in the 1990s, is back with Tere Bina Main, the final track in his Phir Se Rock & Roll series. In an exclusive interview with ETimes, Leslee opens up about the making of the song, his enduring excitement for music, the lessons decades in the industry have taught him, and why live performance remains his biggest high.

At the 'Raja Saab' song launch in Hyderabad, actress Nidhhi Agerwal experienced an intense moment when an enthusiastic crowd of fans overwhelmed her during her departure. Footage reveals her distress as she attempts to navigate through the throng, leaving many viewers outraged over the excessive adoration and the lack of proper crowd control by the organizers.

When Bahraini rapper Flipperachi released FA9LA, it was intended as a standalone hip-hop track. Few could have predicted that the song would soon find itself at the centre of a global pop-culture moment powered largely by its inclusion in Aditya Dhars Dhurandhar and Akshaye Khannas now-viral performance to its beats. In a recent interaction, Flipperachi reflected on how the film dramatically altered the trajectory of the track and his own career.

Akshaye Khanna is dominating social media with his villainous portrayal of Rehman Dakait in 'Dhurandhar'. Casting director Mukesh Chhabra revealed Khanna's enthusiastic acceptance after a narration, highlighting his focus on work. Chhabra also shared Rakesh Bedi's immediate trust in taking on his role.

Rashmika Mandanna recently took a short break from her packed shooting schedule to head out on a girls-only getaway to Sri Lanka. The actor shared glimpses from the scenic vacation on social media, and the pictures quickly set off speculation among fans, many of whom believe the trip was her bachelorette ahead of her wedding to fianc Vijay Deverakonda next February.

During a 'Kaun Banega Crorepati' episode, Amitabh Bachchan hilariously responded to Kartik Aaryan's playful questions about sharing his phone password with wife Jaya Bachchan. The veteran actor's witty replies and banter with the young stars, including learning the Korean heart gesture and modern slang, charmed viewers. Jaya Bachchan recently shared her enduring love for Amitabh after 52 years of marriage.

Madhuri Dixit expressed relief at never working with actors known for tardiness, a trait often associated with Govinda. Govinda, however, clarified his delayed arrivals stemmed from a method inspired by Dilip Kumar, prioritizing mental preparation over strict punctuality. Kumar's guidance also helped Govinda manage his overwhelming film commitments during his peak career.

Radhika Apte, nearing two decades in cinema, revealed a difficult start with her debut film, 'Vaah! Life Ho Toh Aisi!'. She cited poor production and lack of payment, though praised director Mahesh Manjrekar. Apte didn't pursue films immediately after, focusing on college, and doesn't count the debut as part of her filmography.

Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma's recent visit to Vrindavan and subsequent airport spotting has captivated fans. A viral video showcased Virat's attentive gesture towards Anushka, melting hearts online. The couple also received spiritual guidance from Premanand ji Maharaj, emphasizing humility and service. This marks their third Vrindavan trip this year, highlighting their enduring appeal.

After unsettling audiences with his powerful turn as Aurangzeb in Chhaava, the actor has once again commanded attention as the brooding and dangerous Rehman Dakait in Aditya Dhars espionage thriller Dhurandhar. Though the film boasts strong performances from Ranveer Singh, Arjun Rampal and Sara Arjun, it is Akshaye Khanna who has unexpectedly become the films biggest talking point on social media. And now, Govindas wife Sunita Ahuja has openly declaring her admiration for the actor.

Bollywood dialogues from films are now viral memes. Actresses' lines like Alia Bhatt's 'Mujhe ghar jaana hai' and Kareena Kapoor's 'Main apni favourite hoon' capture modern moods. These dialogues, once emotional moments on screen, now represent exhaustion, confidence, and sarcasm in daily online interactions. They have found a new life, resonating with audiences.

Veteran actor Dharmendra passed away at 89, leading to separate prayer meets organized by his wives. Theatre owner Manoj Desai praised Hema Malini's decision for a separate ceremony, citing potential disruptions. Desai also highlighted the immense turnout and dignity of Dharmendra's prayer meet, comparing it to other major industry events.

Actor John Abraham celebrated his 53rd birthday by interacting with the paparazzi, cutting a cake, and accepting a shawl from them. The viral video captured his warm reception of fans and photographers. Abraham, known for films like 'Dhoom' and 'Satyamev Jayate', recently appeared in 'The Diplomat' and has upcoming projects including 'Tariq' and a biopic.

Akshaye Khanna's powerful portrayal of gangster Rehman Dakait in 'Dhurandhar' has captivated audiences, sparking widespread online praise and viral content. Despite the overwhelming appreciation, Khanna remains remarkably unbothered, simply stating he 'had fun.' Casting director Mukesh Chhabra highlighted Khanna's unique acting process and dedication, which evidently translates to his compelling performances.

Allu Arjun's humble interaction with an air hostess on a Qatar Airlines flight has gone viral, melting hearts. The 'Pushpa' star's fan moment, captured in photos, showcased his down-to-earth nature, proving his stardom extends beyond the silver screen. This heartwarming encounter highlights his humane side amidst his professional advancements.

Actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu is embracing 2026 with new resolutions. Following her recent wedding to director Raj Nidimoru, she plans a slower pace. Her focus is on long-term health, nurturing deep relationships, and finding purpose. Samantha aims for a life of balance and inner growth, moving forward with intention and a fresh perspective.

Saif Ali Khan has confirmed his next project is a Bengali biopic, requiring him to adopt a specific accent. He plans to dedicate three months solely to mastering this speech pattern. Khan also reflected on his evolving approach to acting, now favoring focused work with sharp directors over exhaustive efforts, believing it leads to more impactful results.

Actor Dino Morea lauded Bobby Deol and Akshaye Khanna for their impactful recent performances, attributing their viral success to the digital age's expanded reach. Morea reflected on his own career, noting how films like 'Raaz' and 'Aksar' still resonate, and believes similar roles today would achieve widespread internet fame.

Agastya Nanda and Dharmendra's war drama 'Ikkis' has shifted its release date to January 1, 2026, to avoid box office clashes and secure a solo screening advantage. The film, based on the true story of Second Lt. Arun Khetarpal, will now have its final trailer released on December 19, 2025.

Tamil sports dramas like 'Sarpatta' and 'Kanaa' succeed by centering the game, showcasing discipline, struggle, and socio-political themes authentically. In contrast, films such as 'Bigil' and 'Bison' faltered by diluting the sports narrative with commercial elements, romance, and family sentiment, ultimately failing to capture the true essence of the game and player mentality for mass appeal.

Actress Sreeleela has strongly urged social media users to reject AI-generated content, emphasizing the crucial difference between using and abusing technology. She highlighted the serious safety concerns AI misuse poses to film industry professionals, particularly women, and expressed hope for authorities to intervene. Sreeleela's upcoming projects include 'Parasakthi' and 'Ustaad Bhagat Singh'.

James Cameron's 'Avatar: Fire And Ash' has received a clean U/A 16+ certificate from India's CBFC, with no cuts demanded. This marks a significant step for the highly anticipated third installment, ensuring audiences experience the film as intended. The movie, running over three hours, introduces a new fiery Na'vi tribe and explores Jake and Neytiri's grief.

In a touching moment, Varun Dhawan received an emotional tribute from the granddaughter of legendary war hero PVC Hoshiyar Singh Dahiya, praising him for his portrayal in the upcoming film 'Border 2'. She expressed her heartfelt pride and excitement, highlighting how the teaser captures the essence of a soldier's dedication and spirit.

Actress Celina Jaitly is facing a difficult time as her brother, Major (Retd.) Vikrant Kumar Jaitly, remains detained in the UAE. Amidst this, she honored her late father, Colonel VK Jaitly, by sharing his harrowing account of the 1971 war. Jaitly also expressed her deep distress over not being able to connect with her brother.

Hollywood icon Sofia Vergara has put an end to the rumor mill by confirming her relationship with Douglas Chabbott, a 39-year-old executive in the luxury jewelry sector. The 53-year-old 'Modern Family' star took to social media to share a heartfelt post about Chabbott, shedding light on their connection after several public outings together.

Shilpa Shetty addressed reports of a complaint against her co-owned restaurant, Bastian Bengaluru, accused of staying open past hours. She denied the motivated allegations, citing a pending High Court petition. Amid the inquiry, Bastians Mumbai outlet also faced an Income Tax raid, intensifying scrutiny around the popular chain.

Gujarati cinema is gaining national acclaim, with films like 'Hellaro' and 'Chhello Show' winning prestigious National Awards and even an Oscar entry. These movies, often made with low buzz, prioritize meaningful stories and deep emotions over commercial success, proving quality content resonates deeply with audiences and critics alike.

Gitikka Ganju Dhar plays Shabnam Jamali, a wild, bossy Pakistani politicians wife in Aditya Dhars spy thriller 'Dhurandhar'. She said yes instantly on hearing his name, calling him the biggest star for his clarity and detail. Acting opposite Rakesh Bedi, she had to pack a punch.

Playback singer Kumar Sanu has filed a Rs 30 lakh defamation suit against ex-wife Rita Bhattacharya in Bombay High Court. He seeks removal of interviews where she allegedly made false claims about him during their marriage and pregnancy, violating their divorce agreement. The case is set for hearing in December 2025.

Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli enjoyed a private getaway to their lavish Alibaug villa, arriving via a serene water route. This luxurious 8-acre property, featuring a temperature-controlled pool and sprawling gardens, was recently showcased by Kohli. The couple also sought spiritual blessings from Premanand Maharaj in Vrindavan, marking their third visit.

Ajay Devgn wished Riteish Deshmukh on his birthday with an unseen photo, writing, Iss saal Raid toh daal di, ab agle saal phir se Dhamaal machaayenge! Genelia DSouza shared an emotional note for Riteish. The duo recently wrapped Dhamaal 4s Malshej Ghat schedule, directed by Indra Kumar.

Rapper Raftaar halted his college fest performance due to a seating arrangement that he felt hindered audience energy. He requested faculty members to sit on the sides in the future, allowing students closer to the stage to engage more actively. Raftaar contrasted the subdued student response with the high energy he experienced at international shows.

In a humorous twist of fate, Simu Liu recalled his awkward first impression when he met the legendary Robert Downey Jr. Clad in shorts and a simple t-shirt, Liu stood out amongst his well-dressed co-stars. On 'The Tonight Show', he recounted how Downey Jr.

Bollywood actor Dino Morea has announced the passing of his father, Ronnie Morea. Sharing heartfelt throwback photos and videos, Dino remembered his father's vibrant spirit and life lessons. The actor expressed deep sorrow, stating he will miss his mentor and hero immensely. Several Bollywood celebrities have offered their condolences online.

Neha Kakkars new song 'Candy Shop' has sparked backlash online for its vulgar lyrics, cringe choreography, and failed attempt to imitate K-pop aesthetics. Social media users criticized her styling and concept, while some defended her creative choice. Written and produced by Tony Kakkar, the track remains trending despite controversy.

Hollywood maestro James Cameron expressed his admiration for Indian director S.S. Rajamouli, even requesting to visit his film sets. Cameron's 'Avatar' franchise, lauded by Rajamouli as a benchmark for big-screen experiences, is set for a massive multi-language release in India. This exchange highlights a significant creative connection between Indian and Hollywood cinema.

Since its December 5 release, 'Dhurandhar' starring Ranveer Singh and others has dominated the box office, crossing 400 crore. The film revisits the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, moving survivor Rajita Bagga, who called a scene bone-chilling. Director Aditya Dhar thanked her, saying the film aims to ensure such darkness never returns.

Genelia Deshmukh penned a touching birthday tribute to husband Riteish Deshmukh, celebrating his 47th birthday. She revealed Riteish is the secret to their enduring happiness and inseparable bond, praising his loving nature, humor, and ability to make everyone feel valued. Genelia expressed her deep affection, calling him her heartbeat and promising to cherish him always.

Tragedy strikes the family of Kirtan Nadagouda, co-director of KGF: Chapter 2. His four-and-a-half-year-old son, Chiranjeevi Sonarsh K. Natakauda, died in a lift accident. The incident has deeply saddened the Kannada film industry. Condolences are pouring in from across the film and political spheres. Pawan Kalyan extended his sympathies. This loss is a stark reminder of life's fragility.

Raj Kundra has vehemently denied allegations in a Rs 60 crore fraud case, calling them baseless and motivated. He stated the matter is before the High Court, where a quashing petition has been filed. Kundra and Shilpa Shetty are cooperating with authorities, asserting their complete faith in the judiciary amidst ongoing investigations into alleged financial irregularities.

Bhojpuri music's power shines as viral hits like 'Lollipop Lagelu' (Pawan Singh) explode on YouTube, reels, and weddings, outshining films. Hrithik Roshan danced it on Super 30 set; Kartik Aaryan at sister's sangeet. 'Chhalakata Hamro Jawaniya', 'Lal Ghaghra', and Chhath tracks like 'Chhath Ghate Chali' fuel cross-state superhits.

Gil Gerard, the esteemed actor best known for bringing Buck Rogers to life, died peacefully at 82 years old, according to his wife, who revealed he was surrounded by loved ones in a hospice. After a valiant battle with cancer, Gerard's final thoughts resonated with gratitude for a life well-lived, urging all to celebrate each moment and seek out happiness.