The Times of India
Elections 2026Celebrities / The Times of India
Sunny Deol's upcoming film, formerly 'Lahore 1947', now titled 'Batwara 1947', is reportedly inspired by Asghar Wajahat's acclaimed play. The drama, produced by Aamir Khan Productions and directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, delves into the profound human cost of the 1947 Partition, exploring themes of displacement and loss. The ensemble cast includes Preity Zinta and Shabana Azmi, with A.R.
Vijay Antony's film 'Nooru Saamy' successfully released after overcoming distribution challenges, thanks to the timely support of Tiruppur Subramaniam, President of the Theatre Owners' Association. Antony expressed deep gratitude for Subramaniam's unwavering guidance, calling him a reliable industry figure. The film is receiving positive reviews for its compelling story and Antony's performance.
The recently released 'Cocktail 2', starring Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, and Rashmika Mandanna, has received an 'A' certificate, prompting confusion from Kapoor. He clarified that the film, a spiritual successor to the 2012 hit, contains no objectionable content and is suitable for family viewing, aiming to leave audiences with a smile.
Country singer Jelly Roll has spoken candidly about his divorce from Bunnie Xo, clarifying that their split had nothing to do with cheating and that they still consider each other best friends. Bunnie, on her popular podcast, highlighted that the breakup stemmed from communication issues, acknowledging that it wasn't a completely shared decision despite her passionate outburst.
Telugu superstar Allu Arjun has been summoned by Nampally Court as Accused No. 11 in the 'Pushpa 2' Sandhya Theatre stampede case. The court ordered his personal appearance following a tragic incident in December 2024 where a woman died due to crowd management lapses. The investigation focuses on security failures during a benefit show.
Renowned actor Allu Arjun is a beacon of fitness, proudly displaying his commitment to a vibrant lifestyle. He kicks off his mornings with a fasted run, fueling his body with a nutritious breakfast that prominently features eggs. While he permits himself a daily piece of chocolate, his focus remains on holistic health rather than merely sculpting a perfect physique.
Dharma Productions executive Somen Mishra reacted to the announcement of Anurag Kashyap's upcoming book by Penguin Random House India, joking that it must include the chapter where Kashyap threatened to smash my head on the wall. The humorous post went viral, though Somen refused to reveal further details about the incident.
In a whirlwind of speculation, Nina Dobrev was recently spotted with model Douglas Joseph in the vibrant streets of New York City. This unexpected encounter, shared widely on social media, marks her first time publicly linked to someone new following her breakup with Shaun White in September 2025.
A heartwarming BTS video of Diljit Dosanjh touching Naseeruddin Shah's feet on the set of 'Main Vaapas Aaunga' has gone viral, earning praise for the actor's humility. The film, a poignant pre-Partition love story, sees the duo as grandfather and grandson. 'Main Vaapas Aaunga' is steadily gaining box office traction, exceeding initial expectations.
Actor Vishal Vashishtha revealed the immense challenges Salman Khan faced during the 'Sikandar' shoot, including a rib injury and emotional distress following a friend's murder. Vashishtha praised Khan's dedication, noting his struggle with basic movements and commitment to physiotherapy to perform action sequences despite personal turmoil and security concerns.
Early reactions to 'Cocktail 2' are sharply divided. While many laud Kriti Sanon's performance, cast chemistry, music, and emotional depth, others find the film basic, preachy, and frustrating. The romantic drama, a continuation of the 'Cocktail' universe, has ignited a significant online debate about its merits.
Milly Alcock, celebrated for her roles in 'House of the Dragon' and the soon-to-be-released 'Supergirl,' recently opened up about her 20 tattoos, which serve as meaningful anchors to her true self amid the whirlwind of Hollywood.
Director Rajkumar Periyasamy has addressed speculation surrounding his upcoming Dhanush starrer, 'OM'. He clarified that the title choice is not linked to the 1995 Kannada film and dismissed comparisons to 'Pushpa: The Rise', stating the glimpse video only introduced the film's atmosphere. Periyasamy expressed confidence in the cast's performances, promising a layered narrative.
Ram Gopal Varma is reportedly in talks to direct a definitive biopic on controversial encounter specialist Daya Nayak, going beyond his earlier association with Ab Tak Chhappan. Backed by a major studio, the project may connect to RGV's Company universe, as 'Syndicate' and 'Sarkar 4' also remain in the pipeline.
Director Chidambaram's 'Balan The Boy' is garnering positive early reviews, drawing comparisons to 'Manjummel Boys'. Audiences are praising its measured yet engaging pace, building tension effectively towards a striking intermission. The film's emotional intensity, superb performances, and gripping suspense are captivating viewers, promising another directorial success.
Filmmaker Vikram Bhatt defends his latest horror flick, 'Haunted 3D', against criticism of its AI-generated visuals. He argues that audiences are misidentifying real locations as artificial and that technology is a tool to realize creative visions on a budget.
Renowned actor Stanley Tucci graced the illustrious Royal Ascot, making headlines as an esteemed guest of the Royal Family. On the third day of this iconic event, he mingled with royal dignitaries, including King Charles and Queen Camilla, donning a stylish suit paired with a whimsical polka dot tie.
'Kala Hiran' producer Amit Jani claimed he received two death threats within 24 hours, allegedly from a Salman Khan fan and Pakistani terrorist Shahzad Brahmadag Bugti. Filing complaints with Jodhpur police, Jani urged swift action. Despite the threats, he vowed to release the blackbuck poaching-based film regardless.
The buzz around 'Toy Story 5' on X is overwhelmingly positive as fans celebrate its sharp humor, rich emotional layers, and a tighter storyline than the previous installment. Enthusiasts are thrilled to see Jessie's character development, along with the beloved duo of Woody and Buzz making their grand return.
A new World War Two prequel, 'Call the Midwife: Sisters in Arms', is filming, taking viewers back to Poplar's Nonnatus House. The three-part Christmas special will showcase young versions of beloved characters facing wartime hardships without modern medicine. The series highlights courage and resilience amidst the Blitz, with a cast featuring familiar and new faces.
Zendaya's cryptic comments about ringing tissues for the upcoming 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' have ignited fan speculation about a potential character death. Her all-black wardrobe during promotional events further fuels theories that MJ might meet a tragic end, echoing past Spider-Man storylines. The film promises an emotional journey following 'No Way Home'.
In a heartfelt discussion on her podcast, Bunnie XO opened up about her and Jelly Roll's decision to co-parent their twins amicably after their breakup. With nearly 10 years together behind them, the country star's divorce may signal change, but their priority remains clear: nurturing their children in a loving environment, bolstered by a resilient friendship and aligned parenting values.
Filmmaker Bharat S Shrinate defends 'Kala Hiran: The Battle For Legacy' against claims of resembling Salman Khan, citing natural actor resemblance and dismissing bracelet comparisons. Salman Khan has filed a Delhi High Court case seeking a release stay, alleging personality rights infringement. Shrinate urges Khan to watch the film before judging.
Farhan Akhtar has revealed that early acting experiences in 'The Fakir of Venice' and 'Rock On!' pushed him to explore performance beyond directing. The filmmaker, who debuted with cult classic 'Dil Chahta Hai', has since built a strong acting portfolio with films like 'Bhaag Milkha Bhaag' and '120 Bahadur'.
Govinda's daughter Tina Ahuja has revealed that her star-kid status ironically works against her in Bollywood, with casting directors avoiding calling her for auditions assuming she wouldn't show up. The actress, who is actively seeking film and OTT projects, also opened up about her growing bond with mother Sunita Ahuja.
King Charles is reportedly stepping in to help fund security for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's upcoming UK visit with their children. This comes as the couple attends an Invictus Games event, with taxpayer-funded armed police protection approved. The King's potential financial support signals a significant effort to mend his relationship with his son and grandchildren.
Veteran actor Paul Avery, famed for his role in 'All My Children,' and his wife Sheila tragically passed away following a house fire. The couple, both 81, were pulled from their home but succumbed to their injuries. Avery was also remembered as a Vietnam veteran, skydiver, and newspaper founder, truly a man of many talents.
For over a year and a half, Ranveer Singh has remained tight-lipped about the swirling controversy surrounding 'Don 3', choosing to channel his energy instead into the innovative AI-driven zombie flick, 'Pralay'. Meanwhile, tensions with the producers have intensified, leading to potential legal battles and a retraction of a previous non-cooperation stance. Read on to know more in detail.
Rashmika Mandanna debunks the myth of actress rivalry, highlighting a genuine friendship with Kriti Sanon on the 'Cocktail 2' set. She found the urban role refreshing, a departure from her recent rustic characters. Rashmika also cherishes the therapeutic joy of light-hearted entertainers like 'Cocktail 2', balancing them with intense roles for actor growth.
Pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter has taken legal action against William Applegate, obtaining a temporary restraining order after he allegedly stalked her and made an alarming attempt to enter her Los Angeles home. Reports indicate that Applegate has been spotted near her property multiple times, and on May 23, he reportedly tried to gain access by forcing her front door open.
Emma Heming Willis marked her 50th birthday with a heartfelt reflection on her past decade and a hopeful outlook for the future. She expressed pride in her roles as wife, mother, and advocate, particularly highlighting her work with the Emma & Bruce Willis Fund. Emma's dedication to supporting families facing dementia was also a central theme of her message.
Graham Norton has secured a significant legal victory in the US against a social media platform. The TV host sought to unmask users behind deeply upsetting deepfake posts falsely claiming his mother's death and his husband's ill health. This win allows Norton to obtain identifying details and pursue further action against the anonymous account operators.
In a compelling exploration of partition, Imtiaz Ali's 'Main Vaapas Aaunga' starring Diljit Dosanjh has captivated viewers, sailing past the Rs 20 crore gross milestone across the globe in its first week. Notably, the film maintained robust sales, netting Rs 2.20 crore on its seventh day. Its outstanding bracket amidst other releases highlights the film's magnetic draw and emotional impact. Read on to know more in detail.
Shraddha Kapoor's upcoming film 'Eetha' teaser has surfaced online, generating significant buzz. The film, based on Marathi Lavani dancer Vithabai Narayangaonkar, showcases Kapoor in a traditional avatar, including a pregnant portrayal and as a stage performer. Directed by Laxman Utekar and featuring Randeep Hooda and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, 'Eetha' is set for an August 28 release.
Tom Holland's younger brother, Sam, is engaged to chef Clark Stewart, with the couple announcing their Scottish proposal. This news follows Tom's recent confirmation of his marriage to Zendaya, a detail he revealed when discussing AI-generated wedding photos. Sam himself had previously fueled wedding speculation with a social media post.
Prince Harry faces mounting pressure to aid his family's alleged financial woes, with Meghan Markle reportedly taking charge of household finances. She's advised him to ighten their belts, leading to reduced staff and increased workload. Markle reportedly urges Harry to find significant income streams, while he prefers simplifying their lives, hinting at differing financial strategies.
Veteran Kannada actor Doddanna has filed a cyber crime complaint after a fake social media post falsely announced his death. The fabricated news, allegedly created using AI, caused distress among fans and well-wishers. Doddanna released a video confirming he is alive and well, urging authorities to act against the perpetrators and the public to verify information before sharing.
New York City erupted in jubilation as the NBA champion Knicks were honored with a massive parade, celebrating their first title in 53 years. Celebrities like Spike Lee, Timothe Chalamet, and Mariska Hargitay joined the festivities, which included musical performances by Alicia Keys and a hip-hop showcase. Ben Stiller also participated, hinting at his upcoming Knicks documentary.
Filmmaker S. Shankar's son, Arjith Shankar, embarks on his acting career with the launch of his debut film, 'Lover Boy'. Directed by Ashok Kumar, the romantic drama features Arjith alongside Krithi Shetty. The auspicious pooja ceremony saw attendance from prominent directors, signaling an exciting new chapter for the young actor amidst anticipation for director Shankar's own comeback projects.
Samantha Ruth Prabhu's 'Maa Inti Bangaaram' is making waves internationally, particularly in North America, with advance ticket sales surpassing USD 300,000. Early reviews praise the film's fresh ideas and Samantha's performance, hinting at a potential million-dollar overseas run. The ensemble cast also contributes to the film's appeal, promising a family-friendly weekend watch.
Advance ticket sales for 'Cocktail 2' are strong, projecting an opening day collection of Rs 12-15 crore net, potentially surpassing the original's debut. Maharashtra and Delhi lead the market. Despite competition and an 'A' certificate limiting family audiences, the film is poised for a significant box office start.
Prithviraj Sukumaran's 'i, Nobody' trailer unveils a gripping mystery. His character, Rajeevan, a government employee, is thrust into a police investigation, hinting at a dark past involving criminal activities. Parvathy Thiruvothu plays his wife, whose concern for family becomes central. The film promises a psychological thriller exploring hidden truths and a character with a chillingly sinister side.
Tovino Thomas and Basil Joseph's action-comedy 'Athiradi' has landed on SonyLIV after a successful theatrical run. Directed by Arun Anirudhan, the film, which centers on a civil engineering student's quest to revive a college festival, has garnered positive reviews for its blend of comedy, action, and youthful energy.
Samantha Ruth Prabhu's 'Maa Inti Bangaram' has hit theaters, eliciting a mixed audience response. While her performance and the film's emotional family core are lauded, some critics point to a predictable plot and a faltering second half. Early reviews highlight a strong first half with fresh storytelling, but debate surrounds the latter half's execution and engagement.
Following her recent divorce from Keith Urban, Nicole Kidman is reportedly in a new, low-key romance with a high-profile businessman. The relationship is said to have been developing for months, with the couple keeping it private. This news follows earlier speculation linking Kidman to MGM Resorts Chairman Paul Salem and co-star Simon Baker, both of which were dismissed.
In a surprising turn of events, Vikram Bhatt's 'Haunted 3D: Echoes of the Past' has managed to outperform its Bollywood counterparts at the box office, raking in Rs 15.90 crore by its seventh day despite a barrage of unfavorable reviews. Critics have been vocal about its lackluster script and technical shortcomings, particularly highlighting the excessive dependence on AI elements.
Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor's 'Peddi' has entered its third week with added scenes, but collections saw a dip on its 15th day, earning Rs 2 crore net. Despite this, the sports drama's worldwide gross has surpassed Rs 322 crore, with India net collections reaching Rs 228 crore. Occupancy remains moderate across regions.
Jim Carrey is reportedly in talks to reprise his iconic role as The Grinch for a sequel to the 2000 hit How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Director Ron Howard is also expected to return. The project, penned by comedy writers behind The Cat in the Hat, aims to bring back the beloved character, with plot details still under wraps.

41 C