The Times of India
Elections 2026Celebrities / The Times of India
Actor Shanthanu Bhagyaraj expressed profound gratitude to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay for his unwavering support following the passing of his father, filmmaker K. Bhagyaraj. Shanthanu highlighted Vijay's compassionate gesture at his father's funeral and his personal blessing at his wedding. He particularly lauded the state honors bestowed upon his father, calling it the greatest tribute an artist could receive.
Filmmaker SS Rajamouli is being celebrated in Europe with screenings of his acclaimed films like 'RRR' and 'Baahubali'. A particularly iconic scene from 'Eega' received thunderous applause from the French audience in Paris. Rajamouli was also bestowed a significant honor by the Cinmathque Franaise, a prestigious film institution, acknowledging his contribution to cinema. His next project, 'Varanasi', is slated for a 2027 release.
Suriya is lending his voice to a peppy dance number for the upcoming film 'Vishwanath and Sons,' composed by G.V. Prakash Kumar. The song's lyrics are penned by Ken Karunaas, son of actor Karunaas, adding to the excitement. This collaboration promises a high-energy track, with fans eagerly anticipating the first single's release and another glimpse of Suriya's singing talent.
Homi Adajania helmed 'Cocktail 2', featuring Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Mandanna, continues its steady second-week climb, with Day 10 collections growing 3.5% to Rs 4.40 crore even as Akshay Kumar led Ahmed Khan's multi-starrer comic caper, 'Welcome to the Jungle' commands the lion's share of screens nationwide. With the film entering into Day 11 the domestic net collection now stands at Rs 83.53 crore, with the worldwide gross crossing Rs 126.85 crore. With the coveted Rs 100 crore
The film 'Michael,' starring Jaafar Jackson in the role of his famous uncle, has experienced remarkable box office success, closing in on $1 billion and achieving superior records compared to 'Oppenheimer' and 'Bohemian Rhapsody.' During the 2026 BET Awards, both Jackson and co-star Nia Long took a moment to thank fans for their incredible support that has helped elevate the film to historic acclaim.
Suniel Shetty admitted he was initially skeptical about joining 'Welcome to the Jungle' due to its massive ensemble cast but is glad he said yes. Dismissing 'Tropic Thunder' comparisons, he said audiences will decide, adding that rain rot cinema can work too. He is now gearing up for action thriller 'Hitman' with Tiger Shroff.
The Tamil film industry is reportedly planning a grand felicitation event for actor-turned-politician Vijay following his assumption of office as Chief Minister. A delegation of film fraternity members will seek his permission for the ceremony, which aims to celebrate his journey from superstar to statesman. The event could unite South Indian cinema, with industry veterans and stars from neighboring film industries expected to attend. An official announcement awaits Vijay's approval.
Ahmed Khan's multi-starrer action-comedy 'Welcome to the Jungle' ('Welcome 3'), featuring Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Paresh Rawal, and a massive ensemble cast, has concluded an explosive opening weekend at the box office. After a strong Saturday, the film witnessed another magnificent 23.8% jump on Sunday (Day 3), raking in Rs. 24.75 crore net. This push has propelled its three-day domestic net to Rs. 63.75 crore, with its worldwide gross hitting a remarkable Rs. 93.45 crore. Day 4 live tracki
Actor Vishnu Vishal has addressed criticism from Vijay fans regarding his recent comments. He clarified that he was merely repeating what Rajinikanth himself stated about Vijay, emphasizing his intention was to highlight social media toxicity, not to disrespect anyone. The 'Gatta Kusthi 2' star's explanation aims to steer focus back to the upcoming film's promotions.
Kannada actor and filmmaker Sharmiela Mandre is now engaged to producer Sudhan Sundaram. The couple celebrated their private engagement ceremony in Bengaluru on June 25, surrounded by close family and friends. Both Sharmiela, known for her roles in films like 'Gaalipata 2', and Sudhan, a National Award-winning producer, shared their joy online. They are expected to tie the knot later this year.
Producer Firoz A Nadiadwallah confirmed that Priyadarshan will not be directing 'Hera Pheri 3', saying No, he is not part of it. He also praised his long-standing collaborators Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal, and assured fans that Hera Pheri 3 is moving in the right direction.
Sonam Kapoor shared a heartwarming glimpse of her newborn son, Rudralokh, alongside her elder son, Vayu. The actress posted intimate family moments, including art time with Vayu and a cozy bedtime story session with both boys. While keeping their faces mostly private, these candid snapshots offered fans a sweet peek into her life as a mother of two, eliciting an outpouring of love and well wishes.
Emraan Hashmi returns as Shivam in the teaser for 'Awarapan 2', nearly two decades after the original. The glimpse, featuring a desert ride and a poignant tribute, has ignited fan excitement and nostalgia, particularly with the reprise of 'Toh Phir Aao'. The film, also starring Disha Patani and Shabana Azmi, is set to release on August 14, 2026, promising an emotionally charged narrative.
Preity Mukhundhan revealed her decision to star in the Tamil action thriller 'Blast' was an unconventional choice, fulfilling her desire for an action role. She expressed gratitude for the film's reception. Mukhundhan also clarified that her upcoming role in 'Idhayam Murali,' which she signed before 'Blast,' is a pleasant contrast to her previous character. 'Idhayam Murali' is set for a July 10 release.
Filmmaker Dinjith Ayyathan marks seven years since his debut 'Kakshi: Amminippilla', reflecting on a nine-year journey filled with hard work and anticipation. The courtroom comedy-drama, starring Asif Ali, garnered positive reviews. Ayyathan continues his success with recent projects like 'Kishkindha Kaandam' and 'Kerala Crime Files: Season 2', now releasing the thriller 'Eko', which intricately weaves an animal into its mysterious plot about a dog breeder's disappearance.
Rashmika Mandanna, the national crush, is captivating audiences again as she returns to the thrilling world of Mysaa. She recently treated fans to an endearing behind-the-scenes clip, where she playfully left her mark on director Rawindra Pulles shirt. This action-packed film set in tribal landscapes showcases a fierce new side of Mandanna, as teased in the trailer. Joining her is Tarak Ponnappa, who takes on a potentially dark role.
Renowned filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani makes his OTT debut with 'Pritam and Pedro', a light-hearted cybercrime comedy-drama featuring the acting debut of his son, Vir Hirani. Demonstrating a strong commitment to meritocracy, Vir earned his role after an intense audition process. The series, launching on July 3 exclusively on JioHotstar, showcases Vir as a tech whiz collaborating with Arshad Warsi's character, a determined cop, to battle digital crime.
Emma D'Arcy's portrayal of Rhaenyra Targaryen's profound grief in 'House of the Dragon' Season 3, Episode 2, has captivated audiences. The episode opens with Rhaenyra grappling with the devastating loss of her son, Jace, following the Battle of the Gullet. Fans are showering D'Arcy with praise for their emotionally charged performance, with many calling for Emmy recognition for the heartbreaking depiction of a mother's sorrow.
Director Nag Ashwin, known for the blockbuster 'Kalki 2898 AD', is expecting his second child with wife Priyanka Dutt. The filmmaker shared the happy news via a family photo on social media, where Priyanka proudly displayed her baby bump. The couple, married since 2015, are already parents to son Rishi. This joyous announcement comes as Ashwin gears up for the sequel to his highly successful film.
Fans of the gripping horror mystery 'From' are eagerly awaiting Season 5, slated for a 2027 release. Production is set to commence by late 2026 in Nova Scotia. The upcoming season promises to unravel the show's intricate mysteries and bring the narrative to a satisfying conclusion, with lead actor Harold Perrineau hinting at cleverly embedded clues. The core cast is expected to return for this final installment.
In a recent interview, Kunal Kemmu discussed his instinctive approach to parenting alongside wife Soha Ali Khan. They prioritize their judgment over external influences while raising their daughter Inaaya, seamlessly blending Hindu and Muslim traditions. Despite the occasional disagreements, the couple remains devoted to fostering a joyous environment for their daughter, celebrating all festivals with enthusiasm.
Director SS Rajamouli is back to filming his ambitious project 'Varanasi' in Hyderabad, commencing a massive war sequence on July 7. The epic scene will feature Mahesh Babu alongside 3,500 junior artists, with visual effects set to expand the army to an astonishing 50,000 vanars. The film promises a mythological action adventure blending Antarctica's chill with Ramayana's divine elements, all centered on a father-son emotional core.
Legendary comedian Mel Brooks, celebrating his 100th birthday, attributes his longevity to the power of laughter and making people smile. From his early days as a combat engineer to becoming a comedic icon, Brooks' career spans decades, earning him prestigious awards. His enduring passion is evident with upcoming projects like a 'Spaceballs' reboot and an animated film, proving his comedic spirit remains vibrant.
Rapper A$AP Rocky melted hearts during his Los Angeles concert by dedicating a loving shout-out to his son, Riot Rose. While Rihanna held their 2-year-old, Rocky declared his paternal affection from the stage, prompting a sweet wave from the toddler. This rare public display of family love, following their son RZA's recent birthday celebration, offers a glimpse into the couple's private life.
Andrew Garfield and Monica Barbaro's romantic getaway in Rome has set social media abuzz. Photographed sharing intimate moments during a dinner date, the couple, who have been holidaying together in Europe, were seen embracing and kissing. This public display follows a series of appearances since they were first linked in early 2025, culminating in a hand-in-hand arrival at Wimbledon.
A software engineer's passion for cinema led him to share a short film online, catching the eye of actor Aju Varghese and filmmaker Vineeth Sreenivasan. After a period of waiting, a simple Facebook message from Sreenivasan offered Basil Joseph a life-changing opportunity to assist him, marking a significant career pivot from coding to filmmaking. This journey highlights how small interactions can lead to monumental shifts.
The popular Malayalam series 'Bharatanatyam' is gearing up for its third installment, 'Bharatanatyam 3: Rasaleela,' which will introduce a horror-comedy twist. Writer-director Krishnadas Murali returns to helm the project. Following the positive reception and commercial success of its predecessor, 'Bharatanatyam 2: Mohiniyattam,' fans anticipate another hit. The sequel, praised for its technical brilliance and performances, garnered a 3.5-star rating from ETimes.
SS Rajamouli, the acclaimed filmmaker, achieved a significant milestone with a permanent exhibition at Paris's Cinmathque Franaise. Esteemed Oscar-winning director Costa-Gavras took an eight-hour journey through Rajamouli's cinematic landscape, attending a masterclass that left the 'Varanasi' director remarkably touched. Expressing heartfelt gratitude, Rajamouli celebrated the recognition and the enthusiastic embrace of Indian cinema.
Spotted enjoying a movie night together, Shraddha Kapoor and her rumored beau Rahul Mody have stirred fresh gossip about their relationship. Footage of the duo laughing during the 'Welcome to the Jungle' screening went viral, further fueling interest in their connection. This latest outing adds to the ongoing chatter about their blossoming romance that first made headlines this year.
Pop sensation Harry Styles and actress Zoe Kravitz are reportedly planning their upcoming wedding, with New Orleans emerging as a strong contender for the venue. Kravitz's personal ties to the city are a key factor in their decision. The couple, who have kept their relationship private, are said to be seeking a unique celebration, distinct from a typical celebrity event.
Pop sensation Katy Perry's highly anticipated performance at Belgium's Werchter Boutique festival was abruptly cancelled due to severe weather and government-mandated safety measures. The 'Firework' singer, who was backstage preparing, expressed deep disappointment on social media, emphasizing that crowd safety was paramount. This last-minute cancellation dashed hopes of her return to the Belgian stage after 17 years, with fans urged to travel home safely.
Sreenath Bhasi's 'Karakkam', a horror-comedy with musical elements, is set for an OTT release on Sony LIV in July 2026. Directed by Subhash Lalitha Subrahmanian, the film follows two friends whose reckless act in a cemetery unleashes vengeful spirits. The movie has garnered attention for its unique visual presentation of ghosts, offering a fresh take on the genre.
Harish Durairaj's crime-comedy 'Con City,' starring Arjun Das and Anna Ben, has garnered positive audience reception since its June 26 release. The film, centered on a family's ordeal after a boy's kidnapping, is now available for streaming on Netflix. 'Con City' has achieved a net collection of Rs 3.28 crore in India, with its occupancy rate showing a healthy increase over the weekend.
Imtiaz Ali's captivating romance, 'Main Vaapas Aaunga,' set against the backdrop of the Partition era, has unexpectedly found success at the box office. Starring Diljit Dosanjh and Sharvari, the film's box office collection surged to an impressive Rs 46.30 crore in India by its 17th day, driven by enthusiastic word-of-mouth. Even amidst new releases, it has maintained its audience appeal, achieving a global total of Rs 70.88 crore.
British TV presenter Melanie Sykes has bravely showcased her new bald look on social media after a significant battle with alopecia. The 55-year-old revealed that two-thirds of her hair has fallen out due to the autoimmune condition. Sykes, who previously shared her struggles with hair loss and trying on wigs, posted an inspirational selfie with the caption 'Loss + Gain = Life', embracing her transformation with a smile.
Ram Charan's 'Peddi' continues its strong box office run, crossing Rs 336 crore worldwide. The film saw a notable increase in collections on its 25th day, driven by a Sunday holiday. Meanwhile, Samantha Ruth Prabhu's 'Maa Inti Bangaaram' is also performing exceptionally well, nearing Rs 79 crore globally after just ten days.
Get ready for Hollywood's biggest wedding! Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are set to tie the knot at Madison Square Garden on July 3rd. Rumours swirl about a star-studded guest list of 1,000, a $20 million budget, and even potential FBI involvement in security. Fashion, music from legends, and A-list attendees are all part of the buzz surrounding this highly anticipated celebrity union.
Samantha Ruth Prabhu's 'Maa Inti Bangaaram' is a box office sensation, surpassing Anushka Shetty's 'Arundhati' lifetime earnings. The action-family thriller saw a healthy 8.2% jump on its tenth day, collecting Rs 5.30 crore net in India. With a worldwide gross of Rs 78.71 crore against a Rs 20 crore budget, the film is a massive success, especially in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Daenerys Targaryen, the iconic Mother of Dragons from 'Game of Thrones', is making waves in 'House of the Dragon' lore. A recent clip features Daemon Targaryen recounting a prophetic vision at Harrenhal, describing a silver-haired girl with dragons, strongly hinting at Daenerys. This builds on a previous vision at a weirwood tree, further linking the prequel's events to the future of Westeros and Game of Thrones.
Pixar's 'Toy Story 5' dominated the box office, raking in $70 million domestically while DC's 'Supergirl' stumbled with a disappointing USD 38 million debut. This marks a significant setback for Warner Bros.' new DC leadership, with superhero films generally seeing a downturn. Meanwhile, the low-budget horror 'Obsession' continues its impressive run, becoming a major success story.
The controversial kissing scene between Rekha and Biswajeet from the 1969 film Anjana Safar has returned to the spotlight after Biswajeet's daughter, actress Pallavi Chatterjee, admitted in a recent interview that what happened to Rekha was definitely wrong. Now, senior film journalist Jyothi Venkatesh also revisited the incident, recalling what he had heard about the shoot.
Akshay Kumar believes that a film doesn't need a grand promotional event or a larger-than-life spectacle to become a box office success. The actor cited the blockbuster success of Saiyaara as an example, saying the romantic drama won audiences over purely through its music, romance and performances.
Star couple Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma were among the high-profile spectators at Lord's on Sunday as India faced Australia in a crucial Group A clash of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026. Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan and his wife Sophie Shine and Ravi Shastri were also present, with the group later posing together for a picture.
Actor-politician Ravi Kishan has opened up about the struggles that defined the early years of his career, revealing that he spent 34 years facing rejection before finally finding widespread recognition. Speaking on the reality show Alliance, which he is participating in with his daughter Rivva Kishan, the actor recalled watching his contemporaries become stars while he continued to wait for his opportunity.
Courteney Cox, the 'Friends' star, boasts a remarkable USD 150 million net worth, a testament to her successful acting career and shrewd business acumen. Her earnings from 'Friends' alone, including significant royalties, have contributed to a lavish lifestyle. Beyond acting, Cox has made substantial real estate investments and navigated personal relationships, including a recent amicable split with Johnny McDaid after over a decade together.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's planned UK visit, ahead of the 2027 Invictus Games, is reportedly in doubt. Their request for taxpayer-funded police protection for their family was denied, forcing a reconsideration of their trip. While they had agreed to stay at a royal residence, confirmation remains unreceived, adding to the uncertainty surrounding their potential return to the UK.
Comedian Samay Raina faces renewed criticism as an old clip from 'India's Got Latent' resurfaces. In the video, Raina makes a controversial joke about consent and a man whose girlfriend left due to a family emergency. This incident has reignited debates on misogyny in comedy, drawing parallels to the recent 370 biryani controversy and sparking outrage among social media users.
Sadiya Siddiqui has looked back on working with Aishwarya Rai in the 2005 film Shabd, recalling how the actor remained composed and professional despite going through one of the most turbulent phases of her personal life following her highly publicised breakup with Salman Khan. Sadiya said Aishwarya never allowed her personal struggles to affect her work on set, describing her as thoroughly prepared and deeply committed to her craft.
Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan once caused his parents immense panic when he went missing after school. Unbeknownst to them, a young Hrithik had secretly entered his parents' locked bedroom through a small window to watch a 'Batman v Superman' VHS. He fell asleep and was later discovered by his distraught mother, leading to a tearful reunion and relief rather than scolding.
Parents to be Aditya Seal and Anushka Ranjan enjoyed a traditional Godh bharai before welcoming their firstborn.

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