Asianet Newsable

Prakash Raj To Join Cockroach Janata Party Protest In Bengaluru Over NEET Leak Row

Nancy Tiwari — Sun, 14 Jun 2026 12:12:25 +0530

Bengaluru is set to witness a major protest today as actor and activist Prakash Raj joins a demonstration organised by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP). The protest calls for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in the NEET question paper leak case.

Protest Planned at Freedom Park at 4 PM

The demonstration will be held at Freedom Park in Bengaluru at 4 PM, with the CJP confirming Prakash Raj’s participation through its official X account. The actor also acknowledged his involvement on social media, stating that he would travel to Bengaluru to support the peaceful protest.

In his post, Prakash Raj urged citizens to join the movement and raise their voices against what he described as failures in the system. He also emphasised the need for accountability from the government.

Nationwide Movement Gains Momentum

The CJP’s protest in Bengaluru is part of a broader nationwide campaign. Earlier demonstrations were held in Delhi on June 6, Pune on June 11, Lucknow on June 12, and Amritsar on June 13. The group continues to mobilise support across cities over the NEET controversy.

Activist Sonam Wangchuk is also expected to participate in a protest in Hyderabad, adding further momentum to the movement. The organisation has announced another large-scale protest planned in Delhi on June 20.

Call for Continued Agitation

CJP founder Abhijit Deepke stated during the Amritsar protest that participants would continue their agitation until demands are met. He also encouraged supporters to remain committed despite challenges, highlighting that the movement aims to sustain pressure on authorities regarding the alleged examination irregularities.

Sushant Singh Rajput's 6th Death Anniversary: Where His Family Is Now, What Happened To Dog Fudge?

Sun, 14 Jun 2026 11:58:21 +0530

The untimely death of Sushant Singh Rajput broke the hearts of millions of fans. The actor was one of the most loved stars who made his fans' hearts beat with his exceptional acting talent, vivacious nature, curiosity about science, and life. He would even engage with his fans on social media from time to time. The actor allegedly died by suicide as per the autopsy report by AIIMS, ruling out any foul play. Sushant Singh Rajput died on 14 June 2020. The 34-year-old Bollywood actor was found in his apartment in Bandra, Mumbai.

The events that unfolded after his death were no short of a nightmare for his fans and family. From the NCB-led drug probe to his case being ruled out as an alleged suicide, it was quite a difficult time for the people who loved him. Today is his sixth death anniversary, so let's take a look at where his family, sisters, and his dog are now.

Sushant's Sisters Continue To Keep His Legacy Alive

Sushant Singh Rajput's two sisters, Shweta Singh Kirti and Priyanka Singh, continue to spread the word about the actor's untimely death. They fought til their last breath to get answers for his sudden demise. Shweta lives in the USA, and both she and Priyanka continue to pen heartfelt notes for their brother on his birth or death anniversary. They also urge the fans to keep the actor's legacy alive.

Sushant Singh Rajput's Father

After the actor's death in June 2020, Sushant's father, K.K. Singh, largely stepped away from the spotlight. Reports suggest that he willingly took a step back from the media attention and was only present during the legal developments of the case. He also reportedly continues to live a private life and spend time with his family members in Bihar.

The The Story Of His Dog, Fudge

SSR's father later took responsibility of his Labrador, Fudge. The dog was well-taken care of by Sushant's father and family members. However, in January 2023, the family announced another heartbreaking loss. Priyanka Singh revealed that Fudge had passed away nearly three years after Sushant's death.

Nita Ambani's Hair Care Secrets: Stylist Reveals ONE Mistake We All Make In The Shower

Sun, 14 Jun 2026 10:44:49 +0530

If you love taking a long, hot shower every day, you might want to rethink that habit. It could be secretly wrecking your hair. Yianni Tsapatori, the go-to hairstylist for big names like Nita Ambani, Isha Ambani, and Deepika Padukone, recently shared a game-changing hair care tip. He says that washing your hair with very hot water can strip away its natural shine and strength. In an interview, Yianni explained that the final rinse should always be with cool or normal temperature water. This simple step makes your hair softer, shinier, and keeps the frizz away. He believes that to get great hair, you first need to understand how it grows and what it's made of.

How does hot water damage hair?

While a hot shower feels relaxing, it's harsh on your hair's outer layer, called the cuticle. Think of the cuticle as a protective shield for your hair. When you use very hot water, this shield opens up, letting all the natural moisture escape. This is what leaves your hair looking dry, dull, and frizzy. Experts say the intense heat can also weaken the keratin protein in your hair, leading to breakage, split ends, and a loss of shine. On the other hand, cool water helps to seal the cuticle, locking in moisture and making your hair look smoother and shinier.

A clean scalp is key for healthy hair

According to Yianni, beautiful and strong hair starts with a healthy scalp. Often, we focus only on the length of our hair and forget to clean the scalp properly. When you wash your hair, you should gently massage your scalp with your fingertips. Avoid using your nails, as they can scratch and damage the skin. This massage helps remove extra oil, dirt, and dead skin, and also improves blood circulation. He also pointed out a commonly missed spot: the nape area, right at the back of your neck. Cleaning this part thoroughly is super important for good scalp hygiene.

Can hard water also ruin your hair?

Poor hair quality can also be caused by hard water. Hard water has a high concentration of minerals like calcium and magnesium. These minerals can build up on your hair, making it dry, dull, and easy to tangle. If you live in an area with a hard water problem, you can try using filtered or bottled water for your final rinse. This reduces mineral buildup and helps improve your hair's texture.

Sushant Singh Rajput Death Anniversary: MS Dhoni to Chhichhore, 'SSRians' Recall His Best Films

Sun, 14 Jun 2026 10:24:08 +0530

Sushant Singh Rajput was the ultimate star who made millions of hearts beat with his exceptional acting skills, on-screen presence, and ravishing smile. There's no doubt that he was a phenomenal actor, but how his story ended continues to shatter the hearts of his fans. Yes, on June 14, 2020, Sushant Singh Rajput's untimely death shocked many. The entire film industry was taken aback by the loss of this extraordinary talent.

SSR's Death Anniversary Today

What followed next was an absolute nightmare for his fans and family. From the NCB-led drug probe to the alleged suicide theory, fans, to date, refuse to believe that the actor allegedly took his own life. He continues to trend on social media every other day. However, the postmortem and medical reports from Cooper Hospital stated that his death was caused by asphyxia due to hanging. Later, according to a few more reports, a special panel of medical experts from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) re-evaluated the autopsy reports. They officially ruled it a suicide and stated there was no foul play or evidence of murder.

SSRians Trend The Late Star On Social Media

On the account of his death anniversary, his fans who lovingly call themselves ‘SSRians’ are trending him on social media, whilst remembering his best films. From MS Dhoni, Kai Po Che, Chhichhore, to many more, fans' hearts are truly breaking, remembering the demise of such an exceptional talent. Take a look.

He played Dhoni on screen and lived like a champion off screen....Discipline, passion, dreams. Sushant Singh Rajput, 6 years and your example still drives us...Miss you Jaan Bhai ♾️ ✨ #6YearsOfSushant #SSRians #RememberingSSR6years Of Injustice To Sushant pic.twitter.com/yvKM0MvGmk

— Shwetzzz(Satyagrah4SSR #InsaafSSR) (@SushantMH4747) June 13, 2026

June 14th. A date that still hurts Thank you Sushant, for showing how a boy from common family can touch the moon. Your films, your kindness, your stardust... we hold on to it all. Miss you always #SushantSinghRajput #SSRians #14June6years Of Injustice To Sushant pic.twitter.com/gHtXpAUUlO

— Amit (@MintYakiMix) June 13, 2026

Man wid INFINITE ♾️ Dreams ✨✨#ssr #sushantsinghrajput #foreverremembered pic.twitter.com/KwASFhFSZs

— Surya Krishan Bharti (@BhartiSurya) June 14, 2026

6 years later, I still can't say 'RIP' without tears maybe bcoz Legend don't die. You weren't just an actor to me You were part of my childhood, part of my memories, part of my heart. Still hurts Still unreal Still missing you ⭐#SushantSinghRajput#JusticeForSushant #SSR pic.twitter.com/Y3Bltr0bWK

— ~Siya (@GoofyCoree) June 14, 2026

Six years, yet the void remains the same.You may be gone, but your dreams, smile, and memories continue to shine in millions of hearts.Forever remembered. Forever missed. ️✨#SushantSinghRajput #SSR pic.twitter.com/hFPYDC3qWD

— Ashnoor Kaur (@KhushiSing54077) June 14, 2026

Forever in our hearts, shining bright like the stars he loved so much. ✨ Remembering Sushant Singh Rajput and the incredible legacy he left behind. His smile and talent will never be forgotten.!!️❤️#Glamsham #SushantSinghRajput #SSR #Bollywood #GoneButNotForgotten pic.twitter.com/76InMMlvk8

— ᴮʀᴼκᴱɴ_нᴱᴀᴿᴛ. (@MAHTORAM132) June 14, 2026

The song from his last movie taught us the true meaning of life #SushantSinghRajput #SSR #RememberingSSR pic.twitter.com/wTvSBsxSwH

— . (@Vanyabeingvanya) June 14, 2026

"Aapki muskurahat aur aapka hunar hamesha hamare dilon mein zinda rahega. Aapki kami hamesha mehsoos hoti hai. ❤️‍#SushantSinghRajput #SSR pic.twitter.com/LM3S6QKXOa

— ️ (@AryanRooh) June 13, 2026

On the Work Front

The actor's movie starring Sushant Singh Rajput was Dil Bechara starring Sanjana Sanghi.

Justin Trudeau says 'boyfriend duties call' after missing Canada game

Asianet News Central — Sun, 14 Jun 2026 10:30:30 +0530

Former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has responded to criticism over his decision to attend the United States' FIFA World Cup opening match to support girlfriend Katy Perry's headline performance while missing Canada's opening game on the same day. The debate erupted after Trudeau shared a light-hearted post on X, referencing a New York Times article that noted he had chosen the US World Cup opener over Canada's first match of the tournament in June 2026. Addressing the criticism, Trudeau wrote, "Sometimes supportive boyfriend duties call. But you know who I'm rooting for to take the Cup" (with a Canada's national flag emoticon).

Sometimes supportive boyfriend duties call. But you know who I’m rooting for to take the Cup https://t.co/85DXvsyCPp — Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) June 14, 2026

Online Reactions Divided

The post quickly drew widespread attention online, with reactions split between critics and supporters. Some users questioned the optics of the decision, arguing that a former national leader should have prioritised attending Canada's match. One commenter wrote, "Leadership is about putting the country ahead of personal relationships," while others described the move as "unfortunate". However, many supporters dismissed the criticism, defending Trudeau's decision to support his partner and suggesting his opponents were overreacting to a personal matter. A user wrote, "You literally owe no explanation to anyone. Live your life." Another wrote, "You're a free man legally allowed to do whatever you want. You served the country and deserve to be able to enjoy life without internet warriors ripping on you. Have fun."

Trudeau and Perry at FIFA Opening Ceremony

The controversy stems from Trudeau's appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup Opening Ceremony on Friday, June 12, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. Katy Perry headlined the event ahead of the United States vs Paraguay match, performing her song "Wonder" on the pitch alongside 10-year-old Norwegian singer Tius Luka. Trudeau was seen cheering from the sidelines during the performance. Following the show, Perry ran into his arms, and the pair shared a public kiss before later being seen holding hands in the stands, moments that quickly went viral on social media.

For the ceremony, Perry wore a futuristic silver sequin-fringed Stella McCartney gown as she took centre stage at the tournament opener.

A High-Profile Romance

The high-profile couple, who first sparked dating rumours in mid-2025, have made several public appearances together in recent months.

On June 8, 2026, Trudeau accompanied Perry to the Tribeca Festival premiere of her concert film, 'Katy Perry: The Lifetimes Tour - Live from Paris', in New York City, where he was seen singing along to her hit song "Firework."

He was also spotted enthusiastically singing along to her track "CRUSH" during a concert stop in Montreal.

Earlier this year at Coachella 2026, Trudeau joined Perry in the crowd to watch Justin Bieber's headline performance, marking another public appearance for the couple.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Himanshu Jangra regrets show, says viral dating story was 'improvised'

Asianet News Central — Sun, 14 Jun 2026 10:30:22 +0530

Jangra Expresses Regret, Claims Story Was 'Improvised'

Himanshu Jangra, who is facing FIR over his remarks in a viral crowd-work video from comedian Pranit More's show, has said he regrets attending the show and claimed that parts of the dating story he narrated on stage were "improvised" for entertainment purpose. Jangra, who was subsequently fired from his job at a Gurugram-based company and has been trolled on the social media, spoke about the controversy in a joint video post, shared on his and the company's Instagram account.

"Maine jo waha pe story batayi, usmein jo ladki ki baat kar raha hoon main... haan maine ek ladki ko date kiya tha... but sir jo maine waha pe bataya woh totally true nahi tha. Wo ek improvise karke story batayi thi maine waha par," he said. (The story I told there- the girl I was talking about... yes, I did date a girl. But sir, what I said there was not completely true. I improvised that story and told it there). Jangra said he had attended the show after watching previous episodes and noticing that audience members often shared similar anecdotes with dark humour.

He apologised for his remarks. "Mai maanta hoon ki maine kuch galat words use kiye the. Mai is ke liye sorry maangna chahunga. Wo maine jo bataya tha wo sirf ek entertainment way me bataya tha. Mera koi bhi aisa intention ya mentality nahi hai," he added. (I admit that I used some inappropriate words. I would like to apologize for that. What I said was only meant to be presented in an entertaining way. I did not have any such intention or mindset).

Impact on Family and Career

Speaking about the impact of the controversy, Jangra said the online backlash reached his hometown and affected his family. "Sir, abhi dekha jaaye to meri condition bohot worse hai. Pichle do hafton se bohot zyada troll ho raha hoon Instagram pe. Ek hafte tak to ghar pe kisi ko pata nahi tha. Mere home town mein kisi ko nahi pata tha," he said. (Sir, if you look at my situation right now, it is very bad. For the past two weeks, I have been heavily trolled. For about a week, no one at home knew about it. Nobody in my hometown knew about it either).

According to Jangra, his family initially learned about the controversy through relatives and neighbours. He said his parents later called him home and questioned him about the incident. "Gharwaalon ne mujhe ghar bula liya aur pucha ki kya ho raha hai. Maine bhi kaha ki galti ho gayi hai mujhse to unhone thoda daanta, samjhaya. Yaha tak phir bhi theek tha but jab unko pata laga ki mere ko job se nikal diya gaya hai to wo bohot tensed ho gaye. Ab ghar waalo ko dekhta hoon to bohot zyada regret feel hota hai ki kyu gaya tha us show mein mai," he said. (My family called me back home and asked me what was going on. I told them that I had made a mistake, and they scolded me and tried to explain things to me. Even up to that point, things were still manageable. But when they found out that I had been fired from my job, they became very worried. Now, whenever I look at my family, I feel a lot of regret and keep wondering why I ever went on that show).

Jangra maintained that his public statement and caption were not intended to seek sympathy but to take responsibility for his actions and learn from the experience.

Company Issues Statement

In the caption accompanying the video, the company stated, "We believe that every situation deserves context, conversation, and clarity. As requested by many members of our community, we invited Himanshu Jangra to share his perspective and address the questions surrounding the ongoing discussion. This conversation does not represent an endorsement of any statement, action, or viewpoint. It is simply an opportunity to hear directly from the individual involved. We encourage everyone to watch with an open mind, remain respectful, and avoid harassment of any individual." https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZhK4BhvYkW/?

Comedian Pranit More Apologises

Pranit More also issued a public apology, admitting that he should have intervened during the crowd-work interaction. "I think I deserve this hate because when I was doing crowd work with that guy he said a lot of derogatory things, but everyone was laughing at him so I got carried away," More said in a video shared on Instagram on June 13. Calling it a "lapse in judgement," More added that he had given the remarks a platform and apologised to those hurt by the incident.

FIR Registered, Action Taken Against Others

Maharashtra Cyber has registered an FIR against More, Jangra, MBBS student Sejal Pawar and others over the alleged publication and circulation of obscene and objectionable content linked to the stand-up comedy show. The case has been filed under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and Section 67 of the Information Technology Act, 2000.

Separately, KEM Hospital and Medical College placed Sejal Pawar on a 15-day forced leave after a preliminary inquiry into another viral clip from the same show. The institution has also recommended a five-member committee to conduct a detailed investigation into the matter.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said earlier that freedom of expression must be exercised responsibly and should not infringe on the dignity of others. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Salman Khan’s New Look With Buzz Cut At Lagaan Event Leaves Fans Surprised [WATCH]

Nancy Tiwari — Sun, 14 Jun 2026 10:20:56 +0530

Salman Khan once again became the centre of attention after making a stylish appearance at a special event celebrating 25 years of Lagaan. While the reunion of Bollywood icons Salman Khan and Aamir Khan excited fans, it was Salman’s fresh new look that stole the spotlight.

Salman Khan’s Rugged Transformation Grabs Attention

The actor was seen sporting a sharp buzz-cut hairstyle along with light stubble, giving him a more rugged and intense appearance. Fans were quick to notice his changed look and praised his fit physique, with many wondering if the transformation could be connected to his upcoming project with director Vamshi Paidipally, reportedly titled SVC63.

LATEST: Salman Khan and Aamir Khan in one frame... and hold on, is that really #SalmanKhan ? The transformation is unbelievable. If this is the #SVC63 avatar, the box office is about to witness absolute carnage. The aura is unmatched, the presence is commanding, and the… pic.twitter.com/ZF7JY5DfjE

— BeingXSohail (@BeingSohail__) June 13, 2026

Pictures and videos from the event soon spread across social media, with fans sharing their reactions to Salman’s latest style. Many were surprised to see the actor in a completely different avatar and speculated about whether this could be his look for an upcoming film.

Aamir Khan And Kareena Kapoor Join The Viral Moment

The event also featured Aamir Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan, making it a memorable reunion for Bollywood fans. Several clips showed the stars posing together, while another video captured Kareena’s reaction to Salman’s striking appearance.

Social media users flooded the internet with comments, praising Salman’s transformation and fitness. Many fans expressed excitement over seeing the superstar in a new style and linked the look to his upcoming cinematic projects.

While there has been no official confirmation about the reason behind Salman’s makeover, his latest appearance has certainly created buzz among fans and added curiosity around what the actor might bring next on screen.

Has Ram Charan Surpassed Chiranjeevi? Megastar Finally Reacts To The Record-Breaking Debate

Nancy Tiwari — Sun, 14 Jun 2026 09:27:12 +0530

Ram Charan’s box office success has sparked comparisons with Chiranjeevi. Now, the Megastar has finally reacted to the debate over his son’s achievement and shared his thoughts.

Ram Charan is climbing the ladder of success, one film at a time. He's not just sticking to commercial masala movies anymore. Since 'Rangasthalam', fans have seen a new Charan, one who proves how hard actors work. His role in the recent film 'Peddi' is a perfect example of this dedication.Gone are the days when being a hero just meant a few fights and songs. Today, it's all about winning over the audience. Ram Charan, despite his father Chiranjeevi's legacy, has proved his own mettle. Many say he is working even harder to carve his own path.Chiranjeevi built his empire from scratch, fighting off competition to become the Megastar of Tollywood. But his reach was mostly limited to the Telugu states. Now, with hits like 'Rangasthalam', 'RRR', and 'Peddi', Ram Charan has achieved pan-India stardom, leading everyone to say the son has outshone the father.So what does Chiranjeevi think about all this? In recent interviews after the success of 'Peddi', he finally opened his heart. 'Everyone is saying Charan has surpassed Chiranjeevi. It's true, and I accept it wholeheartedly. As a father, I am very proud. But as an actor, it's a bit hard to accept,' he said, adding, 'You did very well, Charan. Love you.'Chiranjeevi also revealed his anxiety during the 'Peddi' shoot. 'I was happy seeing his hard work, but I couldn't bear it when he got injured—once on his hand, and another time on his eye. When his eye was bleeding, I got scared... But I didn't tell Charan about my pain,' the Megastar shared, adding, 'It reminded me of what my father used to say. I am truly proud of Charan.'

Peddi Box Office Day 10: Ram Charan’s Film Crosses Rs 200 Crore, Eyes New Telugu Record

Nancy Tiwari — Sun, 14 Jun 2026 08:56:56 +0530

Ram Charan’s ‘Peddi’ continues its impressive box office run, crossing the Rs 200 crore mark in India despite facing controversy. The film is now eyeing a major record and could become the biggest Telugu blockbuster of the year.

Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor's sports action drama 'Peddi' is having a fantastic run at the box office. Upon release, the film got mixed but mostly positive reviews from critics. While there was some controversy on social media about Janhvi Kapoor's character, it didn't seem to affect the film's earnings. Now, 'Peddi' has hit a new milestone by crossing the ₹200 crore net collection mark in India. The film is holding strong in its second week, and the amazing audience response has already made it one of the biggest Telugu films of the year.

According to the trade tracking website sacnilk.com, 'Peddi' earned a net of ₹8.10 crore in India on its second Saturday. This figure is much better compared to the last few days. Specifically, it's a 57.3% jump from its 9th day (second Friday) collections. The film had made ₹5.15 crore on its second Friday and ₹6.30 crore on the second Thursday.

'Peddi' had received tremendous support from the audience even before its release. The film had earned around ₹20 crore from advance bookings alone. As per reports, more than 82 lakh tickets were sold before the release. After earning ₹18.50 crore from paid previews a day before its release, the film registered a brilliant opening of ₹51 crore net in India on its first day. However, its collections started to dip during the weekdays. But by the end of its 10th day, the film has joined the ₹200 crore club in India, with a total net collection of ₹206.80 crore.

Talking about its worldwide collection, 'Peddi' is just a stone's throw away from hitting the ₹300 crore mark and will easily join the club on its 11th day. On its 10th day, the film earned ₹1 crore overseas. With this, its total overseas gross collection has reached ₹51 crore. In India, the film's gross collection stands at ₹245.53 crore. Looking at these figures, the film has earned a worldwide gross of ₹296.53 crore at the box office.

'Peddi' is now all set to claim the record for the highest-grossing Telugu film of the year. It has already surpassed the lifetime collection of the Prabhas-starrer 'The Raja Saab' (₹206.57 crore) in India. Now, with 'Peddi', Ram Charan is about to break the record of his own father Chiranjeevi's film, 'Man Shankar Var Prasad Garu', which had a lifetime net collection of ₹218.47 crore. Once that happens, 'Peddi' will become the highest-earning South Indian film of 2026.

Kangana Ranaut's 'Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata' declared tax-free in Haryana

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 23:31:17 +0530

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has announced Kangana Ranaut's film 'Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata' as tax-free across the state. The CM was present in Chandigarh on Saturday for a screening of the film. He was joined by lead actor Kangana Ranaut.

During an interaction with the media, CM Saini shared, "I have said that such motivational films, which inspire us, should be watched by all of us. We will declare this 'tax-free' in Haryana because this inspires us and makes us feel our duties."

Kangana expressed gratitude for the initiative, stating that it will help her film reach every person in the state. "The Haryana CM has done a good job in empowering women in the state. Likewise, he has now given us the opportunity by making our film tax-free so that it can reach every citizen of Haryana," she told the media.

Kangana Ranaut and Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini attended the screening of 'Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata' on Saturday evening. In visuals from the event, Kangana could be seen welcoming CM Saini with much warmth and regard.

Special screenings across India

In the past few days, Kangana Ranaut has been actively promoting her film, holding special screenings across the country. In a recent event, she attended the film's special screening in Delhi alongside the lead cast and Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. During the screening, CM Rekha Gupta announced that 'Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata' would be made tax-free in Delhi, a move aimed at encouraging wider public viewership. The Chief Minister also lauded the film for its cultural and social significance.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Sharvari's 'love letter' to 'Main Vaapas Aaunga' crew: See BTS pics

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 23:30:33 +0530

Actor Sharvari has dropped a thoughtful social media post, reflecting on her experience working in Imtiaz Ali's 'Main Vaapas Aaunga'.

In an Instagram post, Sharvari shared a series of BTS moments from the film's sets, capturing director Imtiaz Ali, her co-star Vedang Raina, and all other crew members, who played a key role.

A 'Love Letter' to the Crew

Describing the series as the "People of Main Vaapas Aaunga", the actor wrote, "A film may carry a few faces on screen, but it is built on the passion, patience, talent, and hard work of so many people behind it. Every location, every scene, every emotion exists because an entire team showed up, gave it their all, and believed in this story."

View this post on Instagram Sharvari went on to call the pictures a love letter to the crew, who made the journey feel special. "These photographs are a small love letter to the crew who made this journey so special. Thank you for your dedication, your laughter, your resilience, and your heart. Unfortunately, I couldn't photograph everyone, but sending my love to each one of y'all," she added.

Sharvari also thanked her fans for watching, supporting, and embracing 'Main Vaapas Aaunga'.

Imtiaz Ali on Staying Connected to Roots

Imtiaz's film 'Main Vaapas Aunga' opened in theatres on June 12.

Speaking to ANI, the filmmaker highlighted the importance of staying connected to one's roots and revisiting the past from time to time. "To move forward, it is not necessary to forget the past. I feel that it is very important to keep the past open. One should not pretend. For a tree to grow taller, it never stops strengthening its roots. As it reaches greater heights, it continues to grow deeper roots to support and sustain that growth. I feel that to go forward, one needs to clarify and be in touch with their past also," the 'Rockstar' director expressed.

Star-Studded Cast and Crew

Starring Diljit Dosanjh, Naseeruddin Shah, Sharvari and Vedang Raina in pivotal roles, the film's music is composed by AR Rahman with lyrics penned by Irshad Kamil. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Salman Khan sports striking buzz cut at Aamir Khan's party; see pic

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 23:01:29 +0530

Salman Khan's New Look Steals the Show

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan on Saturday evening attended the 25th anniversary celebrations of Aamir Khan Productions. The event, however, quickly shifted focus to Salman's striking new look, as he was seen sporting a buzz cut that drew considerable attention.

Salman was seen happily posing for the paparazzi alongside Aamir Khan. Kareena Kapoor Khan, who arrived at the event around the same time as Salman, was also delighted to meet the two Khans. The trio came together for a photo session, striking poses for the paparazzi.

Shortly after Salman's appearance, social media was spammed with visuals focussing on his new look. It is not yet known whether Salman's new look is for an upcoming film.

Upcoming Film 'Maatrubhumi'

Meanwhile, Salman will next be seen in the film 'Maatrubhumi', where he will share screen space with Chitrangada Singh. The film, earlier titled 'Battle of Galwan', is based on the 2020 Galwan Valley clash between India and China. Directed by Apoorva Lakhia and produced under Salman Khan Films, 'Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace' is expected to release soon.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Odisha CM congratulates Sudarsan Pattnaik on Russian sand art win

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 23:00:28 +0530

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has congratulated renowned sand artist and Padma Shri awardee Sudarsan Pattnaik on winning the prestigious 'Russian Grand Sand Master Cup' at the International Sand Art Festival held in Russia. In an X post, CM Majhi shared a picture of the artist with his winner's trophy, posing against the background of a stunning sand art.

ଋଷିଆରେ ଅନୁଷ୍ଠିତ ଆନ୍ତର୍ଜାତୀୟ ବାଲୁକା କଳା ମହୋତ୍ସବରେ ପ୍ରତିଷ୍ଠିତ ‘ଋଷିଆନ୍ ଗ୍ରାଣ୍ଡ୍ ସ୍ୟାଣ୍ଡ୍ ମାଷ୍ଟର କପ୍’ ଜିତିଥିବାରୁ ଓଡ଼ିଶାର ବାଲୁକା ଶିଳ୍ପୀ ଶ୍ରୀ ସୁଦର୍ଶନ ପଟ୍ଟନାୟକଙ୍କୁ ଆନ୍ତରିକ ଶୁଭେଚ୍ଛା ଓ ସାଧୁବାଦ। ଏହି ସମ୍ମାନ ପାଇବାରେ ପ୍ରଥମ ଭାରତୀୟ ବାଲୁକା ଶିଳ୍ପୀ ଭାବେ ସେ ବିଶ୍ୱ ଦରବାରରେ ଓଡ଼ିଆ ଅସ୍ମିତା, ଓଡ଼ିଶାର… pic.twitter.com/IqkqxtrsXr — Mohan Charan Majhi (@MohanMOdisha) June 13, 2026

CM Majhi Lauds Achievement

"Heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Odisha's sand artist Shri Sudarshan Pattnayak for winning the prestigious 'Russian Grand Sand Master Cup' at the International Sand Art Festival held in Russia. As the first Indian sand artist to receive this honour, he has further glorified the victorious journey of Odia identity, Odisha's rich culture, and unique artistic heritage on the global stage," the Chief Minister wrote.

He further noted how Sudarsan Pattnaik has time and again conveyed significant messages of awareness on critical global issues like climate change and global warming. "The message of awareness he has conveyed through his sand art on critical global issues like climate change and global warming is truly commendable. I pray to Mahaprabhu Shri Jagannath for his healthy life and continued artistic pursuits for generations to come," he added.

Governor Extends Congratulations

Odisha Governor Dr Hari Babu Kambhampati also congratulated Pattnaik on his remarkable achievement.

"Congratulations to renowned sand artist Shri Sudarsan Pattnaik on winning the prestigious Russian Grand Sand Master Cup. His remarkable achievement brings pride to Odisha and India, showcasing our rich cultural heritage on the global stage. Wishing him continued success in his artistic journey," Odisha Governor said in a post on X. Congratulations to renowned sand artist Shri Sudarsan Pattnaik on winning the prestigious Russian Grand Sand Master Cup. His remarkable achievement brings pride to Odisha and India, showcasing our rich cultural heritage on the global stage. Wishing him continued success in his… — Governor Odisha (@GovernorOdisha) June 13, 2026

Pattnaik Expresses Gratitude

In a June 12 tweet, Pattnaik shared pictures from the Sand Sculpture festival and expressed delight at being honoured with the winner's cup.

"Honoured to receive the Russian Grand Sand Master Cup 2026 at the II International Festival of Sand Sculpture in Kaliningrad, Russia, for my work highlighting the global issue of climate change and global warming. Proud to be the first Indian sand artist to receive this prestigious recognition. Sincerely grateful to the organisers, jury members, and everyone who has supported and encouraged my artistic journey," he wrote. Honoured to receive the Russian Grand Sand Master Cup 2026 at the II International Festival of Sand Sculpture in Kaliningrad, Russia, for my work highlighting the global issue of climate change and global warming. Proud to be the first Indian sand artist to receive this… pic.twitter.com/BxyVFLtFD4 — Sudarsan Pattnaik (@sudarsansand) June 12, 2026

A Globally Recognised Artist

Ever since, congratulatory messages have been pouring in for the artist, applauding his talent.

Sudarsan Pattnaik is a globally recognised Indian sand artist who has won numerous international awards and honours across the world. Over the years, he has proudly represented India on major international platforms, earning global acclaim for his large-scale sand installations that convey powerful social and environmental messages.

His artworks have also been exhibited across India at the National Gallery of Modern Art in Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and New Delhi, where they received an exceptionally interactive response and were widely appreciated by audiences.

(ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

'Deadpool & Wolverine' cinematographer George Richmond stable after surgery

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 21:30:23 +0530

Hollywood cinematographer George Richmond, best known for his latest work on Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds starrer 'Deadpool & Wolverine', is stable after undergoing surgery for cervical spine injuries sustained during a paragliding accident in Himachal Pradesh on June 8.

The 54-year-old British cinematographer is currently undergoing treatment at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh. He was brought to the Advanced Trauma Centre of PGIMER Chandigarh in the early hours of June 9 after rescue and evacuation efforts. He was then admitted under the care of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery.

Cinematographer's Condition and Injury Details

According to the health bulletin dated June 13, Richmond is in a stable, conscious state and is responding to commands. He has been interacting with his wife. Due to the severe spinal injury, Richmond has limited movement in both arms and zero movement in either leg.Other test results appear satisfactory and normal.

Richmond suffered "catastrophic spinal injury comprising a fracture of the C1 vertebra along with a fracture-dislocation at the C5-C6 level, resulting in quadriplegia," as per a press release issued by the PGIMER earlier.

Complex Surgical Intervention

Prof Vijay G Goni, Department of Orthopaedics, PGIMER, stated, "The patient presented with a highly complex cervical spine fracture-dislocation associated with significant neurological impairment. Following detailed evaluation and stabilisation, a carefully planned surgical strategy was executed," as quoted in the release.

Surgical Procedure and Post-Op Care

The surgery, which was led by Dr Vishal Kumar, Additional Professor, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, involved the removal of the damaged intervertebral disc and fractured elements causing neural compression. Reconstruction was performed using an interbody cage packed with bone graft substitute material, followed by stabilisation with a cervical plate and screws.

Following surgery, Richmond was monitored in the postoperative recovery unit before being shifted to the Postoperative Intensive Care Unit.As of now, the cinematographer has been kept under close monitoring by the medical team, the release said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Karisma Kapoor remembers late ex-husband Sunjay Kapur amid legal battle

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 21:00:35 +0530

Actor Karisma Kapoor offered a heartfelt tribute to her ex-husband, late industrialist Sunjay Kapur, on his first death anniversary. In a brief yet touching social media post, Karisma mentioned the date of his passing last year and wrote, "12/06/2025. Sunjay in our hearts forever." She completed the post with folded hands, a white heart, and a dove emoji.

The tributes came at a time amid an ongoing legal battle over the late Sunjay Kapur's estate dispute. On the other hand, the businessman's wife, Priya Kapur, also remembered him with an emotional post. "A year without you. Still the first thought in the morning and the last thought at night," she wrote. https://www.instagram.com/p/DZePXmoSjoK/

Details of the Rs 30,000 Crore Estate Dispute

The legal battle pertains to a high-profile dispute over the estate of late industrialist Sunjay Kapur. An injunction plea was moved by his children from his previous marriage with actor Karisma Kapoor, who has challenged the authenticity of the will. Separately, Sunjay Kapur's mother has also challenged the Will, claiming she was unaware of its existence and disputing the extent of asset disclosures. The dispute involves assets estimated at nearly Rs 30,000 crore.

Plea to Access Funds for Children's Education

In May, the Delhi High Court referred to the roster bench an application filed by Priya Kapur seeking clarification/modification of the Court's April 30 interim order in the ongoing dispute concerning the estate of late industrialist Sunjay Kapur. The plea seeks permission to utilise funds from Sunjay Kapur's Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) account towards the educational expenses of Samaira and Kiaan, children of Sunjay Kapur and actor Karisma Kapoor, along with certain maintenance obligations linked to overseas properties.

Earlier, Priya Kapur had sought modification of portions of the Court's April 30 judgment to permit withdrawals from the Employees' Provident Fund account of late Sunjay Kapur strictly for payment of ongoing and future education-related expenses of Samaira Kapur and Kiaan Raj Kapur, including school and university fees, boarding, lodging and reasonable travel expenses in India and abroad. The plea also seeks permission for the payment of school fees of another defendant enrolled in an overseas school.

Sunjay Kapur passed away at the age of 53 on June 12 in UK. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Kangana's new film gets support from Haryana, Delhi chief ministers

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 20:30:29 +0530

Haryana CM Attends Chandigarh Screening

Actor Kangana Ranaut attended a special screening of her film 'Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata' in Chandigarh on Saturday evening. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Saini also arrived at the screening to show support for the film. In visuals from the event, Kangana could be seen welcoming CM Saini with much warmth and regard. She also briefed him about 'Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata'.

Film Made Tax-Free in Delhi

"Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata is a great film, and it follows a very relevant topic. The film states that dedication, service and patriotism are not just limited to those in uniforms. It is something that all the citizens of our country have within themselves. And when it matters the most, every Indian steps up to help the country. The real Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata are the citizens of our country. I would urge the public to watch the film. I would like to announce that the Delhi government will make the film tax-free in the city so that every citizen is able to watch Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata," CM Gupta said.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari Lauds Film's Realism

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari also attended the grand premiere of the film 'Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata' in Mumbai and lauded the movie for its realistic portrayal of the bravery displayed by nurses at Mumbai's Cama Hospital during the 26/11 terror attacks. "The film 'Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata' evokes memories of the past. I was in Mumbai when the terrorist attacks took place; after striking VT Station, the terrorists entered Cama Hospital. The film realistically portrays the immense courage shown by the nurses there as they worked to save lives," the Union Minister told reporters.

About the Film: A Tribute to Unsung Heroes

Headlined by Kangana, the film shifts the spotlight from celebrated heroes to nurses and ward boys who emerged as silent saviours during one of India's darkest chapters. Inspired by real-life incidents, the film highlights the indispensable role played by healthcare workers and support staff, underscoring how the system would struggle to function without their selfless service and dedication. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Lagaan 25th Anniversary: Paul Blackthorne joins Aamir Khan for reunion

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 18:30:47 +0530

The spirit of 'Lagaan' came alive once again as the iconic period sports drama is all set to mark 25 years since its release. To celebrate the occasion, a special screening was held in Mumbai on Friday evening, where the entire cast of the film gathered, stirring a nostalgic emotion.

Star-Studded Reunion on the Red Carpet

English actor Paul Blackthorne, who played the formidable British officer Captain Andrew Russell, also stole the spotlight with his stylish appearance on the red carpet. Dressed in a stylish avatar, Blackthorne was dressed in a blue shirt paired with grey trousers and a brown cap. He made a rare public appearance, drawing attention from fans and photographers alike. The actor greeted attendees warmly and appeared delighted to be part of the milestone celebration.

The screening soon turned into a nostalgic reunion as lead star and producer Aamir Khan joined fellow cast members and director Ashutosh Gowariker on the red carpet. The actors posed together for photographs, recreating memories from one of Indian cinema's most celebrated films. Among others were Aamir Khan's daughter Ira Khan and his ex-wives Reena Dutta and Kiran Rao.

'Lagaan' Returns to Theatres

This comes at a time when the makers have decided to re-release the Aamir Khan starrer in theatres on June 12, 13, and 14th. The update was shared on the official Instagram handle of Aamir Khan Productions. "A timeless epic that touched every heart. On the 25th Anniversary of LAGAAN, the epic saga returns to the big screen. Relive the magic in theatres on 12th, 13th and 14th June," the post read.

About the Iconic Film

Set in 1893, during the late Victorian period of British colonial rule in India, the film follows the inhabitants of a village in Central India, who, burdened by high taxes and several years of drought, are challenged by an arrogant British Indian Army officer to a game of cricket as a wager to avoid paying the taxes they owe. The villagers face the arduous task of learning a game that is alien to them and playing for victory.

'Lagaan' was screened at numerous international film festivals and garnered accolades. At the 49th National Film Awards, the film won eight awards, including Best Popular Film.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

'I Am Gay': Mouni Roy Reveals the Strangest Rumour She Has Ever Heard

Richa Barua — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 18:09:43 +0530

During an interview, Mouni Roy discussed a story that circulated about her, which stated that she is an individual who identifies as "gay." Continue reading to learn more...

Mouni revealed that one of the strangest rumours she came across was a claim suggesting that she had publicly stated, "I am gay."

The actress clarified that she never made such a statement and described the rumour as entirely fabricated. Despite having no basis in reality, the claim circulated widely and became a topic of discussion among social media users.

Mouni, like many other famous people, has been the subject of much conjecture and rumour. Reflecting on the situation, she stated that celebrities are usually the victim of disinformation, and that not every narrative circulated online is factual.

The actress admitted that while speculation can be difficult, she has learnt to deal with it maturely and focus on her job rather than respond to every accusation.

Mouni's remarks also emphasise the rising issue of disinformation in the digital era. Rumours may swiftly gather traction on social media, magnifying unconfirmed reports before facts are revealed.

The actress emphasised the importance of verifying information before trusting or sharing it, especially when it concerns someone's personal life.

Mouni Roy has established a great career in television, cinema, and digital media. She continues to have a large fan base, thanks to her breakout performance on television and involvement in big Bollywood productions.

Despite difficulties and speculation, Mouni remains focused on her professional development and upcoming projects.

Many admirers complimented Mouni for responding to the allegation with honesty and humour, rather than anger. Her forthright statement struck a chord with admirers, who admired her candour about the reality of living in the spotlight.

The actress's comments have reignited debates about celebrity privacy, false news, and the power of internet gossip.

Anurag Kashyap upset over Indian films getting fewer shows vs Obsession

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 18:00:39 +0530

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has expressed his discontent over Indian films receiving fewer shows in comparison to Hollywood's 'Obsession'. In a strong-worded Instagram story, Kashyap shared his thoughts on the shows of his own directorial 'Bandar', Vedang Raina and Sharvari's 'Main Vaapas Aaunga', Manoj Bajpayee's 'Governor' and Telugu film 'Sing Gheetham'.

"I totally understand that everyone wants to see OBSESSION, but it can still run longer with lesser shows. If we don't prioritise our own films with better showcasing then I don't understand how will we grow. Last week it was with BANDAR, this week with MAIN VAPIS AUNGA, SING GHEETHAM and GOVERNER. We have one morning show of MVA and may be another in some cinemas and same with GOVERNER and no show of SING GHEETAM in Bengaluru. While OBSESSION IS IN 6-7 shows," the filmmaker wrote.

Directed by Anurag Kashyap, 'Bandar' features Bobby Deol and Sapna Pabbi alongside actors like Sanya Malhotra, Saba Azad, Raj B Shetty, Jitendra Joshi, Riddhi Sen, Indrajith Sukumaran and Nagesh Bhonsle in important roles.

'Obsession's' box office domination

On the other hand, Curry Barker's latest horror-romance film 'Obsession' has been performing well at the box office. It recently became the studio's highest-grossing movie ever, crossing USD 224.7 million at the worldwide box office, Deadline reported.

It has surpassed Focus Features' previous biggest worldwide hit, Downton Abbey (2019), which collected USD 194.6 million worldwide.

'Obsession' stars Michael Johnston as Bear and Inde Navarrette as Nikki. The supernatural horror film follows a man whose desire to win the affection of his longtime crush triggers a chain of disturbing and unsettling events.

Ram Gopal Varma praises Hollywood film

Earlier, filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma heaped high praise on the Hollywood film, even noting that it reminded him of a memorable moment from his own 1999 psychological thriller 'Kaun', starring Urmila Matondkar.

I remembered this shot of ⁦Urmila from KAUN after watching OBSESSION pic.twitter.com/o9mpQa7oTR — Ram Gopal Varma (@RGVzoomin) June 7, 2026

Sharing a post on X, Varma drew a comparison between the two films and wrote, "I remembered this shot of Urmila from KAUN after watching OBSESSION."

The filmmaker further expressed his appreciation for the film in another post, stating that he had become "obsessed" with 'Obsession' and that the film had altered prevailing perceptions within the industry regarding theatrical success. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Neymar Net Worth: Private Jets, Supercars & Lifestyle Worth Rs 3,700 Crore!

Richa Barua — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 17:46:13 +0530

Brazilian superstar Neymar isn't just a big name on the football field; his brand value is massive off the pitch too. Outside of football, Neymar often makes headlines as a fashion icon and for his sensational hairstyles. According to Celebrity Net Worth, his total assets in 2026 are estimated at around $450 million, which is more than ₹3,700 crore. And get this, this figure doesn't even include his earnings from his time at Santos or from World Cup matches.

Neymar became one of the world's highest-paid players after his record-breaking move from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2017. At PSG, his annual salary was a whopping €36.8 million. He quickly caught up to Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in terms of salary and endorsement income.

Endorsement Deals and Brand Value

Neymar is one of the most bankable football stars when it comes to endorsements. He has deals with around 30 major brands across different sectors. He collaborates with global giants like Puma, Red Bull, Beats by Dre, Gillette, and Qatar Airways. With millions of followers on social media, Neymar guarantees a huge market for these brands.

Luxury Cars and Private Jets

Neymar has a massive collection of vehicles that matches his lavish lifestyle. He owns two private jets, valued at $4 million and $5 million, and a luxury helicopter he bought in 2013 for $4 million. His garage is filled with some of the world's most exclusive cars, including a Lamborghini Veneno, Lykan Hypersport, Aston Martin Vulcan, Koenigsegg CCXR Trevita, Ferrari 458 Italia, Mercedes-AMG, and an Audi R8 Spyder.

Having scored over 400 goals in his career, Neymar has played for world-class clubs like Barcelona and PSG, winning several titles. His on-field brilliance, combined with a luxurious lifestyle and major brand deals, only adds to his global popularity.

Ikka OTT Release: Sunny Deol, Akshaye Khanna Starrer Court-Room Drama To Stream From THIS Date

Amrita Ghosh — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 17:04:38 +0530

Ikka OTT Release: Sunny Deol and Akshaye Khanna are reuniting for Netflix's upcoming courtroom drama Ikka. The legal thriller, directed by Siddharth P. Malhotra, promises an emotional battle where justice and personal history collide

After sharing screen space in the iconic war drama Border, Sunny Deol and Akshaye Khanna are set to reunite in Ikka, an intense courtroom thriller heading to Netflix. The streaming giant has officially announced that the film will premiere on July 10 and revealed its first poster on social media.

ALSO READ: Haunted 3D Box Office Collection Day 1: Vikram Bhatt's Horror Sequel Beats Rivals

The announcement generated excitement among fans eager to see the two actors face off in a story packed with legal drama, emotional conflict, and moral challenges.

At the centre of Ikka is a celebrated lawyer, portrayed by Sunny Deol, whose life takes an unexpected turn when he is asked to defend a man from his past, played by Akshaye Khanna. The case forces him to revisit unresolved memories while testing his personal beliefs and professional ethics.

As the legal battle unfolds, the lawyer must navigate difficult choices that affect not only the outcome of the case but also the safety and well-being of his family. The story blends courtroom tension with deeply personal stakes, creating a drama driven as much by emotions as by the pursuit of justice.

The film also stars Tillotama Shome as a determined public prosecutor committed to securing justice, while Dia Mirza plays the lawyer's supportive wife who tries to hold the family together amid growing uncertainty.

Directed by Siddharth P. Malhotra and produced by Alchemy Films, Ikka marks Sunny Deol's first project for a streaming platform. The filmmaker described the movie as a long-cherished passion project and highlighted how the narrative explores human relationships and emotional dilemmas alongside legal proceedings.

Malhotra also expressed excitement about bringing together performers such as Sunny Deol, Akshaye Khanna, Dia Mirza, and Tillotama Shome for a story that combines powerful performances with emotionally rich storytelling. The film further strengthens his collaboration with Netflix following the success of Maharaj.

Vicky Kaushal pens heartfelt note for Gurdas Maan, calls him 'GOAT'

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 16:00:22 +0530

Vicky Kaushal's 'Forever Fan' Moment

Cherishing his "forever fan" boy moment, Bollywood actor Vicky Kaushal has shared a heartfelt note for legendary Punjabi singer Gurdas Maan, describing him as the "GOAT" and expressing deep gratitude for the influence the iconic artist has had on his life. Vicky shared a series of pictures from his meeting with Maan. One of the images showed the actor warmly embracing the singer.

Accompanying the photographs was an emotional note in which Vicky reflected on growing up listening to Maan's music and learning from his presence over the years. Sharing his admiration on Instagram, the actor wrote, "Growing up on his songs, learning from his presence. Every moment with him feels like a blessing. For me, he is and always will be the GOAT. Forever fan, forever grateful. Gurdas Maan Saab. @gurdasmaanjeeyo." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vicky Kaushal (@vickykaushal09)

In the comments section, filmmaker Farah Khan wrote, "Gurdas ji is the best." Rapper Badshah expressed his appreciation through emojis, while actress Divya Dutta wrote, "My favs in one frame." The bond between Vicky and Maan is not new. The celebrated singer was among the special guests at Vicky Kaushal and Katrina Kaif's wedding in Rajasthan. Vicky has also publicly praised Maan's work in the past. Last year, the actor lauded the singer's song 'Main Hi Jhoothi' from the album Sound of Soil, referring to Maan as "evergreen".

On the Professional Front

Meanwhile, on the professional front, Vicky is gearing up for 'Love and War'. The Sanjay Leela Bhansali directorial will also star Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt. Officially announced in January 2024, the romantic drama is slated for a theatrical release on January 21, 2027, in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu. The project marks Kaushal's first collaboration with Bhansali and is being billed as the filmmaker's most ambitious romantic drama to date. The film also reunites Bhansali with Ranbir Kapoor after 'Saawariya' and follows Alia Bhatt's collaboration with the director in 'Gangubai Kathiawadi.' (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Mumbai: KEM Hospital bars MBBS student over viral comedy show video

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 15:30:52 +0530

KEM Hospital and Medical College has placed MBBS student Sejal Pawar on a 15-day forced leave and barred her from entering the hospital campus, medical college and hostel premises following the controversy surrounding a viral video clip from a stand-up comedy show featuring comedian Pranit More.

The development comes after a preliminary inquiry by the institution found that the individual seen in the viral video was indeed the MBBS student. According to officials, the statements attributed to her in the clip were found to be inappropriate at first glance and were deemed unacceptable.

MBBS student placed on forced leave

As an interim measure, she has been handed over to her family and will not be permitted to participate in academic or other college-related activities during the 15-day period. The institution said the decision was also taken keeping in view concerns regarding her safety and well-being amid intense public scrutiny and reactions on social media.

Hospital officials stated that Sejal became emotional during the inquiry and was continuously crying. She has also expressed regret in her statement. Considering the impact of the controversy on her mental health, the institution has advised her to undergo professional counselling to prevent depression or severe psychological stress.

Investigation Committee Formed

Meanwhile, KEM Hospital and Medical College has recommended the formation of a five-member committee to conduct a detailed investigation into the matter. The panel will consist of one retired senior professor, one senior journalist and three faculty members from the medical college.

The committee will examine the viral video, verify the facts surrounding the case and assess its broader impact. It has been asked to submit its report within seven days, following which the institution and relevant authorities will decide on any further course of action. The administration has said it is closely monitoring the situation and will avoid drawing conclusions until the investigation is completed. It also stated that the inquiry will be conducted in a fair and transparent manner, with all aspects of the case being taken into consideration.

Comedian Pranit More issues public apology

The controversy is linked to viral clips from a stand-up comedy show featuring comedian Pranit More. On Saturday, More publicly addressed the backlash in an emotional video shared on Instagram, admitting he had made a mistake during a crowd-work interaction.

"Hello, so I wanted to talk about this for a long time but my Instagram got suspended. You all must have seen my crowd work video for which I am getting a lot of hate and I think I deserve this hate because when I was doing crowd work with that guy he said a lot of derogatory things, but everyone was laughing at him so I got carried away," More said.

Calling it a "lapse in judgement," the comedian added, "If I wanted, I could have stopped him there, or I could have taken a stand, but what I couldn't do. I gave him a platform because of which these things escalated. So those who have been hurt because of this, I want to apologise to all of them."

More also confirmed that he is cooperating with authorities in the ongoing case. "Whatever legal proceedings are being held against me, for that I am cooperating with the authorities, but I just want to request all of you... Please give me a chance, I will become a better person. This was a learning for me, so I am working on myself. I will also work on my content, and you will be able to see this in my future work," he said.

FIR registered over obscene content

The controversy escalated after Maharashtra Cyber registered an FIR against Pranit More, Himanshu Jangra, Sejal Pawar and others in connection with the alleged publication and dissemination of obscene and objectionable content from a stand-up comedy show held in Gurugram and circulated through social media platforms.

According to Maharashtra Cyber, the case relates to videos and clips shared on YouTube and Instagram that allegedly contained offensive remarks concerning women, consent and deceased persons. One clip allegedly featured comments by the MBBS student regarding deceased male bodies and medical cadavers, while another allegedly contained remarks by Himanshu Jangra that portrayed women in a derogatory manner and trivialised issues related to consent and dignity. The FIR has been registered at the Nodal Cyber Police Station under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, along with Section 67 of the Information Technology Act, 2000.

Debate on freedom of expression

The issue also triggered a wider debate on stand-up comedy and freedom of expression. Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde called for a ban on stand-up comedy shows and said she would write to Devendra Fadnavis regarding the matter.

Responding to the debate, Fadnavis said freedom of expression should remain protected but must be exercised responsibly. "The Constitution of India grants everyone the freedom of expression. However, it also establishes safeguards to ensure this freedom is not misused. When expression becomes unrestrained, it infringes upon the right of individuals in society to live with dignity," he said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

David Beckham reveals the secret to his 27-year marriage to Victoria

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 15:30:29 +0530

David Beckham has opened up about the foundation of his long-lasting marriage to wife Victoria Beckham, crediting family, mutual support and making time for one another as the keys to their relationship. Speaking to Variety, the retired football star reflected on maintaining a strong partnership despite decades of intense media attention and tabloid scrutiny.

"We've been married for 27 years this July. We've been together for 29 years," David said, adding, "We've got four incredible kids. We've got businesses that we work hard on. But we always make time for each other, and we always have."

'Our family always comes first'

The couple, who married at Luttrellstown Castle in Dublin, Ireland, on July 4, 1999, share four children: sons Brooklyn, Romeo and Cruz, and daughter Harper. Explaining what has helped their marriage endure over the years, David stressed the importance of prioritising both family and each other's personal growth. "I want Victoria to be the best version of herself, and vice versa. And as busy as we are, our family always comes first," he said, adding, "That's our priority, and that's what makes it work when you've been together for so long. Our priority will always be our family."

A Private Renewal of Vows

Over the course of their relationship, the couple have also renewed their wedding vows. David revealed in an interview that only "about six people" attended the private ceremony, according to People magazine.

Navigating 'Ups and Downs' Together

The former footballer has previously spoken about the challenges and rewards of a long-term relationship. During an earlier interview, he said that leaning on one another through difficult moments had strengthened their bond. "Of course, when you're with someone for that amount of time, of course you have your ups and downs, everybody knows that and at the end of the day we were lucky because we had each other at those moments," David said, as quoted by People magazine.

Anniversary Tributes and Public Affection

The Beckhams celebrated their 26th wedding anniversary last year, with Victoria sharing a heartfelt tribute on Instagram alongside a throwback photograph from around the time of their wedding. "Another year, another chapter in our love story. I'm so proud of the beautiful family and life we've built together," Victoria wrote, adding, "You and our four incredible children complete me. I love you so much @davidbeckham xx Here's to 26 years!! xx." The tribute featured a romantic image of the couple sharing a kiss in an outdoor swimming pool, underscoring a relationship that has remained in the public eye for nearly three decades.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

DOJ clears Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery's USD 111bn merger

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 15:30:25 +0530

The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has reportedly approved Paramount's proposed USD 111 billion merger with Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), removing a significant regulatory hurdle for the blockbuster deal. According to a report by Variety, the DOJ's Antitrust Division has cleared the transaction without requiring "any divestitures, behavioral remedies or concessions."

The approval marks a key step forward for David Ellison's Paramount Skydance as it moves toward completing the merger with Warner Bros. Discovery. After conducting an extensive review, "DOJ officials determined the transaction did not pose a threat to competition and declined to challenge it," Variety reported. The Antitrust Division's approval is expected to be officially announced on Friday.

Media Giants to Unite

The proposed merger would unite some of the biggest brands in entertainment and media. Paramount's portfolio includes CBS, CBS News, Paramount Pictures and Paramount+, while Warner Bros. Discovery owns HBO and HBO Max, Warner Bros. Pictures, CNN, TNT, TBS and HGTV, among other assets.

Industry Opposition and Concerns

The deal has faced strong opposition across the entertainment industry. Paramount executives have previously stated that they expect to generate more than USD 6 billion in cost savings through the merger, raising concerns about potential workforce reductions, as per Variety.

More than 5,500 filmmakers, actors and other Hollywood professionals have signed an open letter opposing the transaction. Critics argue that the merger could eliminate jobs, increase prices and reduce competition in the media sector. Organisers of the BlockTheMerger.com campaign include the Writers Guild of America (WGA), as per Variety.

The Teamsters union had also urged the DOJ to block the merger unless Paramount agreed to "substantial and enforceable safeguards" against job cuts and committed to supporting increased production within the United States, as per Variety.

Further Regulatory Hurdles

Despite the DOJ's reported approval, the merger still faces additional regulatory and legal challenges. Several state attorneys general, including California Attorney General Rob Bonta, have indicated they may pursue litigation aimed at blocking the deal on antitrust grounds.

Reacting to the DOJ's decision, Senator Elizabeth Warren issued a strongly worded statement, saying, "This is terrible news for every American who doesn't want Trump-aligned billionaires to control what they watch and how much they pay. The Paramount-Warner Bros. deal has reeked of corruption and influence-peddling. This fight isn't over. State AGs must block this merger," as quoted by Variety.

International Scrutiny

The proposed transaction is also under review outside the United States. In Europe, the European Commission is examining the deal under the European Union's Foreign Subsidies Regulation, focusing on the approximately USD 24 billion in financing provided by the sovereign wealth funds of Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Abu Dhabi. The EU has set a provisional July 14 deadline for its review under the Foreign Subsidies Regulation, alongside a separate July 7 deadline under standard merger assessment rules.

Meanwhile, the United Kingdom's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) announced on June 9 that it had opened an investigation into the proposed Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery merger. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Sunny Deol, Akshaye Khanna reunite for Netflix's courtroom drama 'Ikka'

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 15:01:33 +0530

Netflix has announced 'Ikka', a high-stakes courtroom drama starring Sunny Deol and Akshaye Khanna, set to premiere on July 10. Directed by Siddharth P Malhotra, the film marks Deol's first Netflix feature and brings the two actors together on screen once again in a story centred on justice, morality and personal conflict.

Set against the backdrop of an intense legal battle, 'Ikka' follows a celebrated lawyer, played by Sunny Deol, who is forced to defend a man from his past, portrayed by Akshaye Khanna. The case reopens old wounds and challenges everything the lawyer believes in, as he struggles to balance personal loyalties, family responsibilities and professional principles. The film also stars Tillotama Shome as a determined public prosecutor seeking justice, while Dia Mirza plays a wife and mother trying to hold her family together amid growing uncertainty.

Netflix on the Gripping Courtroom Drama

Speaking about the project, Monika Shergill, Vice President, Content, Netflix India, said, "IKKA brings together everything audiences love about a great courtroom drama: high stakes, moral complexity and emotional conflict. Directed by Siddharth P. Malhotra, the film explores justice, truth and accountability through a gripping narrative that keeps audiences guessing until the very end, with layered characters, unexpected turns and moral questions that linger long after the verdict," in a press note.

She added, "The film also marks a landmark moment for us as Sunny Deol makes his Netflix film debut, returning to the courtroom as a lawyer more than three decades after his iconic turn in the genre. Joining him for an on-screen reunion, the immensely talented Akshaye Khanna makes for the perfect counterpart in what promises to be a riveting battle of wits. With Tillotama Shome and Dia Mirza in key roles, the film brings together exceptional talent in service of a story that is both deeply rooted in its context and universally resonant, the kind of storytelling we are proud to bring to audiences on Netflix."

Director's Vision for 'Ikka'

Produced by Alchemy Films, 'Ikka' explores the consequences of difficult choices and the complexities surrounding justice. The film is positioned as a character-driven thriller that extends its tension beyond the courtroom.

Director Siddharth P Malhotra said, "As a storyteller, I'm always looking for stories that challenge me emotionally and creatively, and IKKA has been one such journey. I've always been a huge fan of courtroom dramas, and this is a subject that has been incredibly close to my heart for many years. In fact, it was one of the first stories I ever wanted to bring to the screen."

He further said, "What drew me to Ikka was the opportunity to tell a courtroom story that focuses as much on personal relationships and emotional dilemmas as it does on the pursuit of justice. To finally tell this story with a cast of the calibre of Sunny Deol, Akshaye Khanna, Dia Mirza and Tillotama Shome feels truly special," as per a press note.

Malhotra also highlighted Deol's return to the legal drama space, saying, "Having Sunny Deol step into the role of a lawyer, a character space audiences have so loved him in, alongside such phenomenal performers, felt like everything coming together at the right time. After the incredible journey of Maharaj, it has been wonderful to collaborate with Netflix once again on a film that is deeply emotional, character-driven and rooted in powerful storytelling."

Written by Althea Kaushal and Mayank Tewari, 'Ikka' is produced by Siddharth P Malhotra and Sapna Malhotra under the banner of Alchemy Films. The cast also includes Sanjeeda Shaikh, Shishir Sharma and Akansha Ranjan Kapoor. With themes of loyalty, accountability and sacrifice at its core, 'Ikka' will premiere exclusively on Netflix on July 10. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Haunted 3D Box Office Collection Day 1: Vikram Bhatt's Horror Sequel Beats Rivals

Amrita Ghosh — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 14:13:23 +0530

Haunted 3D Box Office Collection Day 1: Vikram Bhatt’s Haunted 3D: Echoes Of The Past has kicked off its theatrical run on a positive note. Despite facing competition from multiple new releases, the horror sequel managed to attract audiences

The film enjoyed a promising start at the domestic box office, collecting an estimated Rs 2.50 crore nett on its first day in India. This makes it one of the best-performing releases among the films that arrived in theatres this week.

ALSO READ: Peddi Box Office Collection Day 9: Ram Charan Film Nears Rs 200 Crore India Net Mark

Most of the revenue came from the Hindi version, which contributed approximately Rs 2.45 crore. The Telugu-dubbed version also added a small share to the overall tally. For a horror film released in a competitive market, the opening numbers indicate that the franchise still holds appeal among moviegoers.

Beats The Combined Opening Of Two Rival Films

One of the biggest talking points surrounding the film's debut is that it reportedly earned more than the combined opening-day collections of Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata and Main Vaapas Aaunga.

While Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata is said to have collected around Rs 1 crore on its first day, Main Vaapas Aaunga reportedly earned about Rs 1.25 crore. Together, the two films generated roughly Rs 2.25 crore, which is still lower than Haunted 3D: Echoes Of The Past's estimated Rs 2.50 crore opening.

The achievement highlights the continued popularity of horror films when they successfully generate curiosity among audiences.

Although critics were not particularly impressed with the film, audience interest appears to have played a key role in its opening-day performance. Many viewers were drawn by the nostalgia associated with the Haunted franchise and the promise of supernatural thrills on the big screen.

The film stars Mahaakshay Chakraborty, Chetna Pande and Hemant Pandey in key roles. Whether the movie can maintain momentum over the weekend remains to be seen, but its first-day performance has given the makers a reason to be optimistic.

With a solid opening and relatively strong word-of-mouth among horror enthusiasts, Haunted 3D: Echoes Of The Past has managed to make its presence felt at the box office despite stiff competition from other new releases.

Miss World 2025 pays tribute to Thailand's late Princess Bajrakitiyabha

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 14:00:27 +0530

Miss World 2025 Opal Suchata Chuangsri has paid a heartfelt tribute to Thailand's Princess Bajrakitiyabha following the royal's death, joining a wave of condolences from across the world for the diplomat, legal scholar and humanitarian. Sharing a message on Instagram, Opal reflected on the Princess's influence on her own commitment to social work and praised her lifelong dedication to helping vulnerable communities.

"With deepest sorrow, I humbly pay my final respects," Opal wrote. Describing Princess Bajrakitiyabha as one of her greatest role models, she added, "Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendira Debyavati Krom Luang Ratchasarinee Siripatchara Maha Ratchathida has been one of my greatest role models in social work."

Opal highlighted the Princess's charitable efforts through the Princess Pa Foundation of the Thai Red Cross Society and her work supporting underprivileged communities and women, particularly female inmates. "Her Royal Highness devoted herself to alleviating suffering and creating opportunities for others through charitable works, particularly through the Princess Pa Foundation of the Thai Red Cross Society, as well as by assisting the underprivileged and uplifting the quality of life for women, especially female inmates. This reflects her immense compassion and unwavering determination to leave no one behind," she wrote.

The Miss World winner also spoke about the impact the Princess had on her personally. "As someone who has had the opportunity to engage in social work, I am deeply moved by her royal grace. Her Royal Highness demonstrated that understanding, compassion, and action can truly create profound and positive changes in people's lives," she added. She concluded by pledging to carry forward the Princess's example of service, writing, "I shall forever cherish her royal grace, and I will embrace her dedication as an inspiration to continue doing good for others." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Opal Suchata (@suchaaata)

Miss World Organisation Mourns Princess's Passing

Earlier, the Miss World Organisation issued an official statement mourning the Princess's passing. In a message signed by Chairwoman and CEO Julia Morley CBE, the organisation extended condolences to Thailand's Royal Family and citizens during a period of national mourning.

"On behalf of the Miss World Organisation and our global family, I extend my deepest condolences to His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn, the Royal Family of Thailand, and the people of the Kingdom of Thailand following the passing of Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati," the statement read.

The organisation praised the Princess's distinguished career in public service. "Princess Bajrakitiyabha devoted her life to public service with remarkable dignity, compassion, and dedication. Her work as a legal scholar, diplomat, and humanitarian reflected a profound commitment to justice, education, and the well-being of others. Her Royal Highness earned the admiration of people across Thailand and around the world through her intelligence, grace, and unwavering sense of duty," it stated. The statement concluded with a message of solidarity for Thailand. "At this time of national mourning, our thoughts and prayers are with His Majesty the King, the Royal Family, and all the people of Thailand. May they find comfort in the enduring legacy of a Princess whose life was dedicated to the service of others," she wrote.

A Life of Public Service

Princess Bajrakitiyabha passed away on June 11, 2026, at the age of 47. Thailand's Government Public Relations Department and the Office of the Prime Minister confirmed the news, describing her as a respected national figure whose dedication to public service earned widespread admiration.

India Expresses Condolences

India also expressed condolences following the announcement. The Embassy of India in Bangkok said, "The Embassy of India in Bangkok extends its deepest condolences on the sad passing of Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati Kromluangrajasarinisiribajra Mahavajrarajadhita. At this hour of profound loss, our thoughts and prayers are with His Majesty the King, the Royal Family, and the people of Thailand. The enduring contributions of Her Royal Highness in public service and diplomacy will be fondly remembered."

According to official statements, the Princess had remained in a coma since December 2022 after collapsing due to a heart-related condition while training her companion dog in Pak Chong district of Nakhon Ratchasima province. Her condition later worsened because of a severe infection affecting multiple organ systems. The Royal Household Bureau said she passed away peacefully at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital in Bangkok despite ongoing treatment and continuous medical care.

Born on December 7, 1978, Princess Bajrakitiyabha was the eldest daughter of King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Princess Soamsawali Krom Muen Suddhanarinatha. She was widely respected for championing legal reform and rehabilitation initiatives, including the Kamlangjai ("Inspire") campaign supporting women prisoners and their reintegration into society. Her career included legal studies at Cornell University, service at Thailand's Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York, and a tenure as Thailand's ambassador to Austria from 2012 to 2014. In 2017, she was appointed a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul described her as "a pride of Thailand," adding that her "commitment to building a society of kindness, justice and equality will forever remain as a moral legacy for the nation." Following her death, King Maha Vajiralongkorn directed that royal funeral rites be conducted with the highest honours in accordance with royal tradition. The Princess will lie in state at Phiman Rattaya Throne Hall in Bangkok's Grand Palace as Thailand pays tribute to her enduring legacy of service. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

FIFA World Cup 2026: Nora Fatehi Steals the Show With ‘Siir Siir’ in Toronto-WATCH Viral Video

Richa Barua — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 13:26:40 +0530

Nora Fatehi, an actor-dancer, brought a touch of Bollywood flair to the FIFA World Cup 2026 opening ceremony with a stunning rendition of the tournament's official hymn, Siir Siir. The concert took place in Toronto prior of Canada's World Cup match, garnering shouts from thousands of football fans who assembled at the arena.

Nora performs the Official FIFA World Cup Anthem.

Nora, dressed in a gorgeous stage gown and accompanied by dynamic dancers, presented a high-octane version of Siir Siir, one of the official FIFA World Cup 2026 songs. Her dynamic dancing, stage presence, and charisma quickly became hot topics on social media.

Videos from the occasion quickly went viral, with admirers hailing the actress for representing India on one of the world's largest athletic venues.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by FIFA World Cup (@fifaworldcup)

A special homecoming for Nora Fatehi.

The performance was especially meaningful for Nora, who was born and raised in Canada before establishing a successful career in India's entertainment sector.

Taking the stage in Toronto, her birthplace, made the FIFA performance even more memorable. Fans hailed the occasion as a significant milestone in her international transition from Bollywood star to global artist.

Social media is flooded with praise.

Shortly after the concert, footage and images started circulating online. Fans praised Nora's confidence, dancing talents, and ability to attract a global audience.

Many social media users praised her as a worldwide ambassador for Indian entertainment, while others described her FIFA World Cup debut as a watershed moment for Indian musicians on foreign stages.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Clipeventa (@clipeventa_kpop)

Nora's Increasing Global Presence

Nora Fatehi's worldwide influence has grown progressively over the years, thanks to music videos, international collaborations, and appearances at big events.

Her FIFA World Cup 2026 performance solidifies her place as one of the few Indian performers to play at a sporting event of this size.

Nora Fatehi lit up the FIFA World Cup 2026 Opening Ceremony in Toronto, Canada ⚽#FIFAWorldCup2026 #NoraFatehi #Toronto #Canada2026 #WorldCupOpeningCeremony #FIFA #OpeningCeremony #Soccer #Football #GlobalStage #DancePerformance #MusicAndFootball #WorldCupVibes #fyp pic.twitter.com/l7Hw9jbxdi

— Asif A. Khan (@asifazeez) June 11, 2026

Fans celebrate Nora's FIFA moment.

For admirers, Nora's performance was more than simply entertainment; it was a source of pride. As the FIFA World Cup 2026 continues to draw fans from all over the world, Nora's performance underscored the expanding importance of Indian talent in international pop culture and entertainment.

With her dynamic performance in Siir Siir, the actress demonstrated why she is still one of the most sought-after actors in the industry.

Songs That Hear Us: How Melodies from the Past Define Our Lives

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 13:00:49 +0530

There are songs we hear. And then there are songs that hear us. Songs that wait patiently in the attic of memory until life finally supplies the meaning their lyrics were always carrying. As children, we inherit them through crackling radios and Sunday cinema. Through mothers humming while folding saris. Through fathers singing softly at traffic lights. Through black-and-white films flickering in living rooms fragrant with chai and cardamom.

Of course, memory is an unreliable archivist. It preserves feeling more faithfully than fact. The mothers in our recollections are often folding laundry, stirring dal, humming songs; the fathers are often driving cars, reading newspapers, returning from work. Such images belong to the era that produced them, and to the films that reflected them. Today those roles may be reversed, shared, questioned, or joyfully discarded altogether. Women drive nations and corporations; men nurture children and kitchens; many households no longer recognise such distinctions at all. Yet nostalgia is less about assigning duties than preserving tenderness. The details may age. The affection does not. The choreography changes. The music remains.

The Song as a Mirror to Life's Seasons

We inherit them before we understand them. Years later they return. Not as music. As mirrors. Few songs do this more hauntingly than Waqt Ne Kiya Kya Haseen Sitam.

Waqt ne kiya kya haseen sitam, Tum rahe na tum, hum rahe na hum. Time has wrought such beautiful cruelties. You are no longer you. I am no longer me. What an astonishing lyric. What an Indian lyric. Only our poets could place beauty beside brutality without apology. Only our cinema could transform heartbreak into philosophy, grief into grace, devastation into something luminous.

The song sounds romantic when we are young. It sounds spiritual when we are older. And after suffering, it sounds almost prophetic. Because catastrophe rarely arrives wearing catastrophe's face. It arrives disguised as certainty. As affection. As familiarity. As friendship. As faith. The greatest storms do not always descend from dark skies. Sometimes they enter through open doors. Sometimes they arrive carrying our own reflection.

Bollywood's Philosophy: Companionship in Longing

And when they pass through us, we find ourselves standing amid the rubble asking the oldest question humanity has ever asked. Why? Why does suffering arrive where tenderness lives? Why do betrayals bloom in gardens we watered ourselves? Why do some of life's deepest wounds come not from enemies but from those we welcomed?

The Greeks asked it. The Sufis asked it. The saints asked it. The poets never stopped asking it. Bollywood understood this long before psychologists and self-help gurus. Our greatest songs were never merely about romance. They were about endurance. About surviving disappointment without surrendering wonder. About remaining open despite every reason to close. Listen carefully. Jaane Woh Kaise Log The Jinke Pyaar Ko Pyaar Mila. Chingari Koi Bhadke. Woh Shaam Kuch Ajeeb Thi. Waqt Ne Kiya Kya Haseen Sitam. These are not merely melodies. They are manuals. Not for love. For living.

Hollywood often celebrates victory. European cinema frequently examines despair. But Bollywood understands longing. That sacred space between wound and wisdom. Between loss and liberation. Between what was and what may yet become.

Our greatest songs do not offer solutions. They offer companionship. They sit beside us in darkness and whisper: You are not the first. You will not be the last. Keep walking.

The Beautiful Cruelty: How Time Transforms Pain

And perhaps that is why they endure. Because suffering changes costumes but never character. Every generation discovers its own heartbreak. Every era invents new technologies for loneliness. Every century creates fresh vocabulary for old grief. Yet the ache remains recognisable. The abandoned lover. The betrayed friend. The grieving child. The disappointed parent. The bewildered survivor. Different stories. Same sorrow. Same song.

But hidden within Waqt Ne Kiya Kya Haseen Sitam is something even more profound than melancholy. The lyric does not accuse time. It marvels at it. What a beautiful cruelty. Not ugly. Not monstrous. Beautiful. Because time destroys. But time also reveals. It dismantles illusion. It removes disguises. It introduces us to people and then introduces us to their truth. Sometimes that truth delights us. Sometimes it devastates us.

But revelation is rarely punishment. It is preparation. Bekarar dil is tarah mile, Jis tarah kabhi hum juda na the. Restless hearts met as though they had never been apart. How many relationships begin there? How many friendships? How many partnerships? How many dreams? Everything feels destined. Everything feels permanent. Everything feels protected.

Until life reveals its oldest secret. Nothing is permanent. Not joy. Not sorrow. Not certainty. Not fear.

Nature's Lesson in Transformation

A forest fire appears catastrophic until spring arrives carrying green shoots through blackened earth. A flood appears final until new life gathers beside altered banks. Even a pearl begins as an injury. A wound. A trespass. A grain of irritation. The oyster cannot expel it. So it transforms it. Layer upon luminous layer. Pain becomes beauty. Aggravation becomes adornment. The wound becomes the wonder.

Nature seems determined to teach us this lesson repeatedly. The lotus blooms from mud. Diamonds emerge beneath pressure. Stars are born from collapse. Human beings spend their lives trying desperately to avoid the very conditions that create depth. We want growth without grief. Wisdom without wounds. Strength without struggle. Transformation without turbulence. Existence keeps returning the same answer. No. The river becomes the river because it keeps flowing around obstacles. The mountain becomes the mountain because it withstands weather. The heart becomes the heart because it survives breaking. The songs knew this. That is why they last.

The Heroism of Healing: From Dawn to Awakening

When Geeta Dutt sang these words, she was not merely voicing sadness. She was articulating one of existence's oldest mysteries. The self we lose is often the self we have outgrown. The self we become often emerges from circumstances we never would have chosen. Life edits us. Time revises us. Suffering rewrites us.

And still we continue. Not because we are fearless. Because dawn is stubborn. Every night believes itself eternal. Every dawn proves it wrong. The sun is perhaps the world's oldest optimist. Morning arrives whether invited or not. It spills itself across battlefields and bedrooms, hospitals and holy places, palaces and prison cells. It illuminates without interrogation. It blesses without bias. It simply arrives. Again. And again. And again.

Perhaps healing works the same way. Quietly. Gradually. Without fanfare. A laugh surprises you. A song no longer makes you cry. A memory softens. A scar stops demanding explanation. The first uninterrupted sleep. The first hopeful thought. The first moment you realise survival has already begun. Not because the pain disappeared. Because you expanded around it.

Then comes the line that feels almost unbearably true: Tum bhi kho gaye, Hum bhi kho gaye, Ek raah par chal ke do qadam. You were lost. I was lost. After walking only a few steps down the same road. What a devastating understanding of life. Not everyone who begins the journey with us finishes it beside us. Some leave. Some change. Some disappoint. Some die. Some simply become strangers carrying familiar faces.

Yet that is not the end of the story. Because what remains is not abandonment. What remains is awakening. The human capacity to remain tender after trauma. To remain generous after betrayal. To remain hopeful after devastation. To remain loving after loss. That is heroism. Not conquest. Not domination. Not vengeance. Compassion. Compassion after injury. Light after darkness. Grace after grief.

The old songs knew this. That is why they still find us decades later. Not because they remind us of youth. Because they remind us of truth. And perhaps that is what the lyric ultimately means. Tum rahe na tum. Hum rahe na hum. You are no longer who you were. Neither am I. Pain has seen to that. Experience has seen to that. Time has seen to that. But perhaps that is not tragedy. Perhaps that is the point. Because the untouched soul is innocent. The tested soul is illuminated. The unbroken heart loves. The repaired heart understands love. The sheltered life believes in beauty. The wounded life recognises beauty. One admires the sunrise. The other gives thanks for it.

A Wisdom That Lingers

And so the song remains. Floating through decades. Across radios and records. Across cities and generations. Across heartbreaks both public and private. Still asking us to trust time. Not because it is gentle. Because it is transformative. Not because it spares us. Because it teaches us. Not because it avoids beautiful cruelties. Because it turns those cruelties into unexpected grace.

The song ends. The theatre empties. Life resumes. Yet the melody lingers. As all true wisdom does. A reminder that wounds can become windows. That sorrow can become song. That survival can become sanctuary. And that even after life's most bewildering betrayals, most painful partings, most beautiful cruelties, there remains one stubborn, shimmering possibility. Morning. Waiting patiently beyond the horizon. Humming its own old refrain. Waqt ne kiya kya haseen sitam... Ready to begin again.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Pranit More apologises for viral video, admits 'big mistake'

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 12:30:51 +0530

Comedian Pranit More Addresses Controversy

Stand-up comedian Pranit More has publicly addressed the controversy surrounding the viral videos featuring obscene remarks. In an emotional video shared on Instagram on Saturday, he issued an apology and appealed to the public for a second chance.

Addressing his followers through a self-made video clip, More acknowledged the criticism directed at him and admitted that he made a mistake during the interaction that sparked the backlash. "Hello, so I wanted to talk about this for a long time but my Instagram got suspended. You all must have seen my crowd work video for which I am getting a lot of hate and I think I deserve this hate because when I was doing crowd work with that guy he said a lot of derogatory things, but everyone was laughing at him so I got carried away," he said.

"I got a lapse in judgement and I think it was a big mistake of mine," More said. The comedian further said that he could have intervened during the interaction, but failed to do so. "If I wanted, I could have stopped him there, or I could have taken a stand, but what I couldn't do. I gave him a platform because of which these things escalated. So those who have been hurt because of this, I want to apologise to all of them," he added.

More also confirmed that he is cooperating with authorities in connection with the ongoing legal proceedings. "Whatever legal proceedings are being held against me, for that I am cooperating with the authorities, but I just want to request all of you... Please give me a chance, I will become a better person. This was a learning for me, so I am working on myself. I will also work on my content, and you will be able to see this in my future work," he said. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pranit More (@rj_pranit)

FIR Filed Over Obscene Content

The controversy intensified after Maharashtra Cyber registered an FIR against Pranit More, Himanshu Jangra, Dr Sejal Pawar and others, allegedly involved in the publication and dissemination of obscene and objectionable content from a stand-up comedy show held in Gurugram and circulated online through social media platforms.

According to Maharashtra Cyber, the case pertains to videos and clips shared on platforms including YouTube and Instagram that allegedly contained offensive remarks concerning women, consent and deceased persons. Authorities stated that one clip allegedly featured comments by Dr Sejal Pawar regarding deceased male bodies and medical cadavers, while another allegedly contained remarks by Himanshu Jangra that portrayed women in a derogatory manner and trivialised issues related to consent and dignity.

The FIR has been registered at the Nodal Cyber Police Station under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, along with Section 67 of the Information Technology Act, 2000.

Political Reactions and Call for Ban

Amid the controversy, Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde called for a ban on stand-up comedy shows and said she would write to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis regarding the matter. "A stand-up comedy show by Pranit More was organised here. Sejal Pawar, a student from our KEM Hospital, was present in the show... As the Mayor, I oppose this; it does not befit our Indian culture.... Stand-up comedy shows should be banned. I will write a letter to the Chief Minister," Tawde told ANI.

Responding to the broader debate around artistic expression, Fadnavis said that while stand-up comedy should remain unrestricted, freedom of expression must be exercised responsibly. "The Constitution of India grants everyone the freedom of expression. However, it also establishes safeguards to ensure this freedom is not misused. When expression becomes unrestrained, it infringes upon the right of individuals in society to live with dignity," he said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Who is Ashirwad Sooryavanshi? Meet Vaibhav Sooryavanshi 10-Year-Old Brother Smashes Century!

Richa Barua — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 12:24:29 +0530

Everyone knows Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, the IPL star who's now in Team India. But guess what? Before he could even play for India, his 10-year-old brother Ashirwad has hit a massive century, making everyone sit up and take notice.

In the 19th IPL season, 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi completely dominated with his powerful batting. He became the tournament's highest run-scorer, winning the Orange Cap, a Tata Sierra car, and several other awards.The BCCI selection committee was super impressed with Vaibhav's game. They selected him for the upcoming T20 series against Ireland and England. This makes him the youngest male cricketer to be selected for the Indian cricket team.While the nation waits for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's India debut, his 10-year-old brother Aashirwad has already made a name for himself. He hit a fantastic century, showing that cricket talent runs deep in the family.Aashirwad Sooryavanshi played a blinder of an innings in a local cricket tournament in Samastipur, Bihar. He smashed 103 runs off just 87 balls, an innings that included 20 boundaries and one six. Reports say his elder brother Vaibhav also congratulated him on his performance.Just like his brother, Aashirwad Sooryavanshi dreams of playing for Team India one day. His century helped his team, Tajpur Cricket Academy, post a total of 234 for 4 in 29.5 overs. After reaching his hundred, Aashirwad celebrated by raising his helmet and bat in the air.The whole family is celebrating Aashirwad's first century. His other brother, Ujjwal Sooryavanshi, even shared his happiness on social media. Meanwhile, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is currently busy playing for the India A team in a tri-series.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Elephant Tarak and Orangutan Walter Predict Germany’s Next Match

Richa Barua — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 12:06:42 +0530

Everyone remembers Paul the Octopus, right? Back in the 2010 World Cup, he became a superstar for perfectly predicting Germany's match results. The method was simple: Paul would choose food from one of two boxes, each representing a team. He was incredibly accurate! In the 2008 Euro Cup, he got four out of six of Germany's matches right. And in the 2010 World Cup, he had a perfect record for all of Germany's games. He even correctly predicted that Spain would beat Holland in the final on July 11.

Elephant or Orangutan? Germany’s Match Prediction Sparks Buzz

Now, a zoo in Germany has brought two new predictors into the game: Tarak and Walter. Both are stars at the Cologne Zoo in Germany. Tarak, an Asian elephant, has a special love for footballs. So, the zookeepers had an idea. They gave him balls with the flags of Germany and Curaçao to predict the match result. Tarak made his choice clear: he crushed the German ball, predicting a German win. At least, that's what the zookeepers believe.

But Walter, an orangutan, has a different opinion. He predicts a win for Curaçao. Walter was given two boxes filled with food. Although he picked up both boxes, he chose to eat from the one representing Curaçao. The Germany-Curaçao match is on Sunday. So, whose prediction will come true—Tarak's or Walter's? We'll have to wait and find out.

Miss World mourns passing of Thailand's Princess Bajrakitiyabha

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 12:00:40 +0530

Miss World Organisation's Tribute

The Miss World Organisation has issued a heartfelt tribute following the passing of Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati of Thailand, joining a global outpouring of condolences for the royal, diplomat, legal scholar and humanitarian.

In a statement shared by the organisation and signed by Chairwoman and CEO Julia Morley CBE, the Miss World Organisation expressed its sympathy to Thailand's Royal Family and citizens during a period of national mourning. "On behalf of the Miss World Organisation and our global family, I extend my deepest condolences to His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn, the Royal Family of Thailand, and the people of the Kingdom of Thailand following the passing of Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati," the statement read.

The organisation paid tribute to the Princess's lifelong commitment to public service, highlighting her contributions across legal, diplomatic and humanitarian fields. "Princess Bajrakitiyabha devoted her life to public service with remarkable dignity, compassion, and dedication. Her work as a legal scholar, diplomat, and humanitarian reflected a profound commitment to justice, education, and the well-being of others. Her Royal Highness earned the admiration of people across Thailand and around the world through her intelligence, grace, and unwavering sense of duty," the tribute stated.

Concluding its message, the Miss World Organisation expressed solidarity with Thailand during the mourning period. "At this time of national mourning, our thoughts and prayers are with His Majesty the King, the Royal Family, and all the people of Thailand. May they find comfort in the enduring legacy of a Princess whose life was dedicated to the service of others," the statement added.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Miss World (@missworld)

Official Announcements and Tributes

The post drew messages of support from followers, with Thai citizens and pageant fans thanking the organisation for its compassionate tribute and recognition of the Princess's legacy. Princess Bajrakitiyabha passed away on June 11, 2026, at the age of 47. Thailand's Government Public Relations Department and the Office of the Prime Minister confirmed her death, describing her as a national figure whose dedication to public service earned widespread respect.

India also conveyed its condolences following the announcement. The Embassy of India in Bangkok said, "The Embassy of India in Bangkok extends its deepest condolences on the sad passing of Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati Kromluangrajasarinisiribajra Mahavajrarajadhita. At this hour of profound loss, our thoughts and prayers are with His Majesty the King, the Royal Family, and the people of Thailand. The enduring contributions of Her Royal Highness in public service and diplomacy will be fondly remembered."

According to official statements, the Princess had been in a coma since December 2022 after collapsing due to a heart-related condition while training her companion dog in Pak Chong district of Nakhon Ratchasima province. Her health later deteriorated because of a severe infection that affected multiple organ systems. The Royal Household Bureau said she passed away peacefully at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital in Bangkok despite ongoing treatment and continuous medical care.

A Life Dedicated to Public Service

Born on December 7, 1978, Princess Bajrakitiyabha was the eldest daughter of King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Princess Soamsawali Krom Muen Suddhanarinatha. Widely respected for her public service, she championed legal reform and rehabilitation initiatives, including the Kamlangjai ("Inspire") campaign aimed at supporting women prisoners and their reintegration into society. She studied law at Cornell University, served at Thailand's Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York, and later held the position of Thailand's ambassador to Austria from 2012 to 2014. In 2017, she became a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.

Royal Funeral Rites

Following her passing, King Maha Vajiralongkorn directed that royal funeral rites be conducted with the highest honours in accordance with royal tradition. The Princess will lie in state at Phiman Rattaya Throne Hall in Bangkok's Grand Palace as the nation pays tribute to her enduring legacy of service. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Jailer 2: Hrithik Roshan To Replace Shah Rukh Khan For Rajinikanth's Film? Read On

Amrita Ghosh — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 11:54:36 +0530

Jailer 2: Rajinikanth’s Jailer 2 continues to generate huge excitement as fresh reports hint at major casting change. While Shah Rukh Khan was earlier rumored to appear, new buzz suggests Hrithik Roshan may have stepped in for a powerful cameo

The latest industry buzz suggests that Hrithik Roshan has been roped in for a significant cameo in Jailer 2. According to reports, the actor will play a close friend of Rajinikanth’s character who enters the story during a crucial moment. Sources claim Hrithik is expected to shoot his portions soon, adding another star-powered element to the highly anticipated sequel.

ALSO READ: Main Wapas Aaunga Box Office Collection Day 1: Diljit Dosanjh’s Partition Drama Opens at Rs 1.15 Crore

For months, speculation was rife that Shah Rukh Khan would make a special appearance in the Nelson Dilipkumar directorial. However, recent reports indicate that the Bollywood superstar may have opted out due to his packed schedule and commitments to his upcoming film, King. While there has been no official confirmation from the makers, the development has shifted attention toward Hrithik’s reported involvement.

Jailer 2 is already being touted as a multi-industry spectacle. Reports suggest actors like Mohanlal, Shiva Rajkumar, Mithun Chakraborty, Vinayakan and Vijay Sethupathi could make special appearances. Meanwhile, there are also claims that director Nelson Dilipkumar plans to reshoot certain portions of the film after reviewing the footage. The movie features Rajinikanth alongside S. J. Suryah, Ramya Krishnan and Yogi Babu, with reports also linking Vidya Balan to a pivotal role. Although the release date remains unannounced, industry buzz points to an August theatrical release.

Rs 370 Biryani Row: Pranit More Seeks Forgiveness After Gurugram Audience Remark Triggers Storm

Richa Barua — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 11:51:32 +0530

Stand-up comedian Pranit More has finally addressed the controversy surrounding the viral "Rs 370 biryani" remark made during one of his crowd-work comedy shows. Facing intense criticism on social media, the comedian released a public apology video, admitting that he made mistakes while handling the situation and asking people for a second chance.

What Triggered the Controversy?

The controversy erupted after a clip from Pranit More's live show in Gurugram went viral online. During a crowd interaction segment, an audience member made a controversial comment implying that spending money on a date entitled him to something in return.

The remark quickly sparked outrage, with many social media users calling it misogynistic and offensive. Critics also questioned why the statement was not challenged strongly enough during the show.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Pranit More (@rj_pranit)

Pranit More Says He Was 'Carried Away'

In his apology video, More acknowledged the backlash and admitted that he got "carried away" during the performance.

The comedian expressed regret over the incident and said he never intended to hurt anyone. He urged people to consider his apology sincerely and give him an opportunity to learn from the experience.

Legal Trouble Adds to Pressure

The controversy has now moved beyond social media. Maharashtra Cyber authorities have reportedly registered a case in connection with the viral clip, intensifying scrutiny around the incident and the broader debate over the responsibilities of comedians during live crowd-work performances.

Celebrities React to the Viral Row

Several public figures and entertainers have weighed in on the controversy. Comedian Munawar Faruqui appeared to take an indirect dig at the incident, while actress Ayesha Khan and others criticised the mindset reflected in the viral remark.

The episode has also reignited discussions around consent, misogyny, and the limits of humour in stand-up comedy.

Social Media Divided Over Apology

While some users appreciated More's willingness to apologise, others argued that the incident highlighted larger concerns about crowd-work comedy and the normalisation of problematic remarks for laughs.

The debate continues online, with supporters calling for forgiveness and critics demanding greater accountability from performers and audiences alike.

Prateek Kuhad unveils 'If I Cannot Be Yours' from new album 'Full Moon Chamber'

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 11:30:49 +0530

Singer-songwriter Prateek Kuhad has released 'If I Cannot Be Yours', the second single from his upcoming studio album Full Moon Chamber, which is scheduled to be released on July 10. The track, accompanied by an official music video, follows the release of 'Blush', the first single from the album that was unveiled last month.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Prateek Kuhad (@prateekkuhad)

About 'If I Cannot Be Yours'

Built around soft vocals, synths, electric guitar and a driving rhythm, 'If I Cannot Be Yours' explores themes of identity, emotional dependence and self-discovery. The song revolves around the question, "If I cannot be yours, darling, who should I be?," as per the press release.

Speaking about the track, Kuhad said it examines the uncertainty that can accompany the end of a relationship. "Sitting at the centre of loss of identity and self rediscovery, 'If I Cannot Be Yours' explores the unsettling space between wanting to leave a relationship and fearing the reality of who you might become without it. It is about reaching a point where so much of your sense of self is tied to another person, that letting go forces you to confront who you are on your own," he said in a statement.

'Full Moon Chamber' Album Details

'Full Moon Chamber' is Prateek's third studio album and his first since 'The Way That Lovers Do' (2022). Written and recorded between New York and Los Angeles, the 14-track album explores themes of love, belonging and identity through deeply personal songwriting.

Los Angeles-based producers Nick Ruth and Mike Irish worked on 'If I Cannot Be Yours'. Ruth, known for collaborations with artists including Kelly Clarkson, Bakar and Lauren Spencer Smith, also helped shape the overall sound of the album by refining recordings into a cohesive sonic framework. The album will be released on July 10 via Atlantic Records. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

'Rs 370 ki biryani' Row: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis Slams Pranit More, Says Comedy Must Have ‘Dignity’

Richa Barua — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 11:27:01 +0530

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has addressed the issue involving stand-up comedian Pranit More, emphasising that while freedom of speech is a fundamental right, it should not come at the expense of dignity and social duty.

Speaking to reporters on June 12, 2026, Fadnavis tackled the backlash over More’s recent stand-up act. He said, yes, the Constitution gives everyone the right to speak up, but there are limits for a reason. He didn’t mince words either. “Everyone loves stand-up comedy; honestly, I watch it too. But chasing laughs can’t come at the cost of society’s boundaries or someone’s dignity,” Fadnavis said, according to ANI. “That’s not just offensive, it’s plain wrong.” He pointed out the obvious: unchecked speech hurts people.

'Freedom of expression has safeguards.'

The Chief Minister emphasised that the Constitution allows freedom of expression while also including measures to avoid abuse of that right.

According to Fadnavis, unrestrained expression that undermines the dignity of others can lead to social injustice. He emphasised the need of accountability for entertainers and comedians when performing in front of an audience.

Fadnavis advocates for dignity in stand-up comedy.

Speaking on the subject, Fadnavis stated that he appreciates stand-up comedy but feels there should be limitations.

He claimed that comedy should be conducted while adhering to the "minimum parameters of dignity" and should not breach social conventions or demean persons in the sake of amusement.

What Makes Pranit More Controversial?

The dispute occurred after videos of Pranit More and others performing stand-up comedy became popular on social media.

One section, known as the "Rs 370 biryani" film, sparked an uproar over statementsmany viewers found insulting and sexist. The films sparked considerable condemnation online, prompting calls for punishment against those responsible.

Cyber police register a case.

As the uproar grew, the Maharashtra Cyber Police reportedly filed a case against numerous persons associated with the event for allegedly inappropriate and abusive statements.

The development has given a legal dimension to the argument, with ongoing disputes about the boundaries of free speech, humour, and accountability in public performances.

Political reactions grow.

The problem has also garnered political attention. Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde vehemently condemned the material, declaring that disrespectful statements made in the name of entertainment will not be accepted.

Following the scandal, she urged for increased inspection of stand-up comedy performances.

The debate over comedy and free speech continues.

The Pranit More issue has rekindled a broader debate about artistic freedom and appropriate speech. While many people accept comedians' ability to push boundaries, others believe that humour should not cross the line into undermining dignity and respect.

With political officials, law enforcement agencies, and social media users all chiming in, the debate over stand-up comedy and free expression is set to continue in the coming days.

Kotha Malupu Review: Hit or Miss? Is Akash Goparaju, Bhairavi Ardhya's Film Worth Watching? Read On

Richa Barua — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 11:20:09 +0530

Singer Sunitha's son, Akash, is back with his new film, `Kotha Malupu`. We find out if this romantic thriller gives him the big break he's looking for.Star singer Sunitha's son, Akash Goparaju, has already tried to impress audiences as a hero. Now, he's back with another film, `Kotha Malupu`. Siva Vara Prasad Kesanakurthi directed this movie, with Bhairavi Ardhya as the heroine. Tati Balakrishna produced it under the Thathastu Creations banner. The film released on Friday, June 12. Let's see if Akash has a hit on his hands this time.Kamal (Akash) is a carefree guy who just wants to have fun with his friends. He goes to a village in East Godavari district for a function and instantly falls for a village belle, Varalakshmi (Bhairavi Ardhya). One night, a mysterious girl saves him from trouble, but he doesn't know who she is. Varalakshmi helps him in his search, and they fall in love. Just when he's about to realise she's the one, he finds a photo of her with another man. This creates a whole lot of misunderstanding and suspicion. The rest of the film explores how their love story navigates these new turns.This is a fresh village love story. Director Siva Kesanakurthi has nicely shown the emotional conflict between love, misunderstanding, and trust. The Godavari backdrop adds a lovely, pleasant feel to the film. The first half is light and fun, with comedy scenes that will remind you of the region's unique humour. The second half gets more emotional, trying to show how dangerous suspicion can be in a relationship. The climax message for today's youth is quite thoughtful. However, the story feels a bit routine, and some scenes in the second half drag. While the twist is good, there are no major 'wow' moments.Akash Goparaju plays his character Kamal well. He looks much more mature and acts naturally compared to his last film. He shows great energy in the first half and handles the emotional scenes convincingly. The heroine, Bhairavi, is the other strong pillar of the film. She plays Varalakshmi with a natural innocence and expresses the character's emotions perfectly. Her performance in the climax is a highlight. Raghu Babu and Prithvi bring the laughs with their Godavari-style dialogues. Siddhu also does a good job in his role as Gopi. The rest of the cast were decent in their roles.Yashwanth Nag's songs fit the story well, and his background score really lifts the emotional scenes. The cinematography by Sumanth Kacherla and Jawahar Reddy is a huge plus; they have captured the beauty of the Godavari region stunningly. Production values are quite rich. The editing, however, could have been tighter. The director chose a good story with a decent twist, but the screenplay feels a bit routine. He successfully balances comedy, family elements, and emotions. **Final Take** This is a feel-good family entertainer that highlights the importance of trust in love. **Rating: 2.75**

Ben Schwartz joins cast of Sam Mendes' Beatles film as Murray the K

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 11:01:00 +0530

Actor Ben Schwartz, known for voicing Sonic in the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise, has joined the cast of 'The Beatles -- A Four-Film Cinematic Event', directed by Sam Mendes, according to Variety. Schwartz will play New York disc jockey Murray the K.

Ensemble Cast and Key Roles

The ambitious project features an ensemble cast including Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney, Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr and Joseph Quinn as George Harrison. The film series also stars Saoirse Ronan as Linda McCartney, Anna Sawai as Yoko Ono, Aimee Lou Wood as Pattie Boyd and Mia McKenna-Bruce as Maureen Starkey, according to Variety.

Other key cast members include Harry Lloyd as legendary producer George Martin, while James Norton has been confirmed as Beatles manager Brian Epstein. The wider supporting cast features David Morrissey as Jim McCartney, Leanne Best as John Lennon's Aunt Mimi, Bobby Schofield as road manager Neil Aspinall, Daniel Hoffmann-Gill as roadie Mal Evans, Arthur Darvill as press officer Derek Taylor and Adam Pally as music manager Allen Klein.

A Unique Four-Film Approach

Each of the four films will focus on a different member of The Beatles' journey, telling their story from individual perspectives before converging to depict their rise from Liverpool to global fame and eventual breakup in 1970, according to Variety.

Production and Distribution Details

This marks the first time Apple Corps Ltd. and The Beatles have granted full life-story and music rights for a scripted feature film project, according to Variety. The films are being directed by Sam Mendes, the Oscar-winning filmmaker behind American Beauty and 1917, with scripts by Jez Butterworth, Peter Straughan and Jack Thorne. Mendes is producing alongside Pippa Harris, Julie Pastor and Alexandra Derbyshire under Neal Street Productions.

Sony Pictures will finance and distribute all four films worldwide, with theatrical releases planned for April 2028.

Ben Schwartz's Upcoming Projects

Ben Schwartz, who has appeared in projects such as Parks and Recreation, The Other Guys and Transformers: Age of Extinction, will next be seen reprising his role as Sonic in Sonic the Hedgehog 4, scheduled for release on March 14, 2027. He is also developing and starring in the TV adaptation of The Earliest Show, and will appear in the upcoming Netflix comedy Bad Day, according to Variety. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Michael Jackson biopic 'Michael' dethrones 'Bohemian Rhapsody' at BO

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 10:30:34 +0530

'Michael' Smashes Box Office Records

The Michael Jackson biopic 'Michael' has become the highest-grossing music biopic of all time, overtaking Bohemian Rhapsody at the global box office, according to People.

According to Deadline, the film has earned USD 911.9 million worldwide since its theatrical release on April 24, surpassing the lifetime global total of Bohemian Rhapsody, which earned USD 910.9 million.

The film had earlier overtaken the 2022 Elvis Presley biopic Elvis before moving past the Freddie Mercury-based Bohemian Rhapsody to claim the top spot among music biopics.

In addition to its worldwide success, Michael has also become the highest-grossing biopic ever at the domestic box office.

The film's latest achievement adds another milestone for producer Graham King, who also produced the Oscar-winning Bohemian Rhapsody.

With the film continuing its theatrical run, another major box-office record could soon be within reach. Michael is now closing in on the USD 1 billion mark globally, a feat achieved earlier this month by The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, which currently leads the worldwide box office rankings for 2026, according to People.

Star-Studded Cast and Production

Directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan, Michael chronicles the life and career of the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson. The project was developed with the support of several members of Jackson's family years after his death in 2009 at the age of 50.

The film stars Jaafar Jackson, the son of Michael Jackson's brother Jermaine Jackson, in the title role. Juliano Krue Valdi portrays a young Michael Jackson, according to People.

The supporting cast includes Colman Domingo as family patriarch Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, Miles Teller as lawyer and manager John Branca, Laura Harrier as music executive Suzanne de Passe and Mike Myers as CBS Records executive Walter Yetnikoff.

Film's Narrative Focus

According to the film's official description, Michael offers an "honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated" music icon.

The story concludes in 1988, focusing on Jackson's rise to global superstardom and not covering the allegations that emerged in later years, according to People.

Michael is currently playing in theatres worldwide. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

‘Ronaldo and Neymar Play for Brazil’: Malayalam Actress Gayathri Suresh’s Remark Sparks Troll Storm

Richa Barua — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 10:13:38 +0530

Actress and model Gayathri Suresh, who made her debut in the Kunchacko Boban film Jamna Pyari, is no stranger to online trolls. After working in several films, including in Telugu, Gayathri often finds herself in the news for her public statements. And now, she's going viral once again.

This time, the reason is a football-related comment she made. Gayathri was at the Mentor Engineering College in Muvattupuzha for a World Cup Fans Celebration event. Interestingly, she was wearing a Messi No. 10 jersey.

After the event, as she was leaving, she answered a few questions from an online media channel. That's when she said that both Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar play for Brazil. When the reporter asked if both players were on the same team, Gayathri looked surprised.

Here's how the conversation went:

Media: Ronaldo?

Gayathri: Brazil.

Media: And Neymar?

Gayathri: Brazil.

Media: So, Neymar and Ronaldo are on the same team?

Gayathri: I'm leaving.

Media: No, no, what you said is correct.

Gayathri: It's correct, right?

Gayathri: Phew. The way he laughed, I got worried for a second.

As soon as the video came out, it went viral, and the trolls had a field day. However, a lot of people are also posting comments supporting Gayathri. "She's just an innocent girl... why are you guys trolling her?" one user asked.

Some even found a clever way to defend her. "What she said is technically correct. We shouldn't forget that there was a GOAT player named Ronaldo who played for Brazil," one person wrote, referring to the legendary Brazilian striker.

Other comments supporting her included, "She is a sweet, innocent person. She comes, gets trolled, and leaves. That's her cycle," and “Just leave her alone. Why do you guys keep trolling this poor girl? She's harmless.”

Josh Hutcherson on 'Hunger Games': The franchise was my version of college

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 10:00:52 +0530

Actor Josh Hutcherson has reflected on his years filming 'The Hunger Games' franchise, saying the blockbuster series became his version of college as he grew up alongside his castmates, according to People.

'Hunger Games' Was My College

During a conversation with former co-star Elizabeth Banks for Variety's Actors on Actors series, Hutcherson looked back on joining the franchise as a teenager and the lasting impact it had on his life. "Well, I mean, I think I was like 19," Hutcherson said while discussing the start of filming. "Like it was like that was my -- I didn't do college and so like college for me was shooting those movies," according to People.

The actor added that the experience helped shape his early adult years. "And kind of growing up with them, but that was so long ago," he said.

A 'Feral Gang' and an 'Auntie'

Banks, who played Effie Trinket in the franchise, recalled the lively atmosphere among the younger cast members during production. "I remember coming back and you guys were like this feral gang of young people," Banks said. "That's what it felt like."

The four-film franchise, released between 2012 and 2015 and based on the bestselling novels by Suzanne Collins, became a global phenomenon. Hutcherson starred as Peeta Mellark opposite Jennifer Lawrence's Katniss Everdeen, while Banks portrayed the colourful Capitol escort Effie Trinket. The ensemble cast also featured Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Stanley Tucci and Donald Sutherland, according to People.

Reflecting on her time with the cast, Banks said she often felt protective of the younger actors. "I felt like your auntie," she recalled, before adding, "I was everyone's auntie."

As the franchise continued, Banks said she became more comfortable on set. "And then we really, I really got to like relax and have fun on the second one," she said. "There were a lot more adults my age."

Potential Return in 'Sunrise on the Reaping'

In December 2025, multiple outlets reported that Lawrence, 35, and Hutcherson are expected to reprise their roles in the upcoming 2026 prequel Sunrise on the Reaping, which will debut in theatres on Nov. 20. However, specifics behind their potential appearance in the movie are under wraps, according to People.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Main Wapas Aaunga Box Office Collection Day 1: Diljit Dosanjh’s Partition Drama Opens at Rs 1.15 Crore

Amrita Ghosh — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 09:29:13 +0530

Main Wapas Aaunga Box Office Collection Day 1: Imtiaz Ali’s Main Vaapas Aaunga has finally hit theatres, bringing an emotional Partition-era story to audiences. Despite positive reactions to the performances, the film recorded a modest start

Imtiaz Ali’s latest directorial venture, Main Vaapas Aaunga, opened in cinemas on June 12, 2026. Featuring Diljit Dosanjh, Sharvari, Vedang Raina, and Naseeruddin Shah in pivotal roles, the film is inspired by real-life stories from the Partition era.

ALSO READ: Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai Box Office Collection Day 8: Varun Dhawan’s Film Nears Rs 60 Crore Worldwide

Despite a wide release across 2,302 screens nationwide and an extensive promotional campaign, the film managed to earn Rs 1.15 crore in India net collections on its first day. Its India gross collection reached approximately Rs 1.38 crore, indicating a relatively slow start at the ticket counters.

Occupancy Remains Low Despite Positive Word of Mouth

According to early trade estimates, Main Vaapas Aaunga recorded an overall occupancy of 12.22% on its opening day. While audience reactions have been mixed regarding the film’s pacing and narrative, critics and moviegoers have largely appreciated the performances delivered by the ensemble cast.

Industry observers believe that strong word of mouth could play a crucial role in helping the film gain momentum over the weekend. Given its emotional subject matter and Imtiaz Ali’s reputation for storytelling, the coming days will be important in determining the film’s long-term box office prospects.

Faces Tough Competition from Multiple Releases

The film entered a crowded marketplace and faced competition from several releases. It clashed directly with Kangana Ranaut’s Bharata Bhhagya Viddhaata, which reportedly earned around Rs 1 crore on its opening day.

In addition, Main Vaapas Aaunga is competing for audience attention and screen space alongside Manoj Bajpayee’s Governor, Varun Dhawan’s Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, and the international release He-Man and the Masters of the Universe. Despite the competition, the Diljit Dosanjh-led drama has managed to stay slightly ahead of some of its rivals on Day 1.

With a talented cast, a powerful historical backdrop, and the possibility of positive audience recommendations, Main Vaapas Aaunga will now look to improve its numbers over the weekend and establish a stronger foothold at the box office.

Peddi Box Office Collection Day 9: Ram Charan Film Nears Rs 200 Crore India Net Mark

Amrita Ghosh — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 09:15:38 +0530

Peddi Box Office Collection Day 9: Ram Charan's Peddi is steadily marching towards another major box office milestone. Despite a drop in collections on Day 9, the sports action drama continues to attract audiences and maintain a strong theatrical run

Ram Charan's sports action drama Peddi experienced a predictable slowdown on its ninth day at the box office. The film collected Rs 5.15 crore net in India, registering a drop of over 18 percent compared to its Day 8 earnings of Rs 6.30 crore.

ALSO READ: Janhvi Kapoor Peddi Controversy: Jaya Bachchan Spills Old Secrets, Kangana Ranaut Jumps In

While the decline reflects the usual second-week trend, the film has continued to bring audiences to theatres across major markets. With a total of 3,816 shows running on Day 9, Peddi remains one of the most widely screened films currently in cinemas.

India Box Office Inches Towards Rs 200 Crore Landmark

The film's cumulative India net collection now stands at Rs 198.70 crore, putting it just a step away from the coveted Rs 200 crore mark. After a highly successful first week that contributed Rs 193.55 crore net, the film has managed to sustain steady business in its second weekend.

Its India gross collection has climbed to Rs 235.98 crore, underlining the strong response from audiences, particularly in Telugu-speaking regions. Andhra Pradesh and Telangana once again emerged as the biggest contributors on Day 9, while Karnataka and other Indian territories also added healthy numbers to the overall tally.

Peddi continues to perform respectably in overseas markets as well. The film added Rs 1 crore gross internationally on Day 9, pushing its overseas total to Rs 50.40 crore gross. As a result, the worldwide gross collection has now reached an impressive Rs 286.38 crore.

Occupancy figures suggest that audience interest remains intact. The Telugu version recorded an overall occupancy of 26.10 percent, with footfalls increasing throughout the day and peaking during night shows. The Tamil version also maintained a decent presence with an overall occupancy of nearly 19 percent.

Much of the film's success has been credited to Ram Charan's powerful performance. His portrayal of a determined athlete fighting for identity, recognition and community pride has resonated with viewers, helping the film overcome some of its narrative shortcomings and maintain a strong run at the box office.

Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai Box Office Collection Day 8: Varun Dhawan’s Film Nears Rs 60 Crore Worldwide

Amrita Ghosh — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 09:10:10 +0530

Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai Box Office Collection Day 8: Varun Dhawan's Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai continues its theatrical run despite tough competition and mixed reviews. The comedy entertainer has now crossed Rs 58 crore worldwide

Varun Dhawan's comedy entertainer Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai has entered its second week in cinemas on a steady note. While the film received mixed reviews from both critics and audiences, it has managed to attract moviegoers and sustain its box-office performance. The David Dhawan directorial recently crossed the Rs 50 crore mark worldwide and is now moving closer to another significant milestone.

ALSO READ: Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai Box Office Collection Day 2: Varun Dhawan Starrer Earns Rs. 14.75 Crore

According to trade estimates, the film earned Rs 1.85 crore net in India on its eighth day. This represents a drop from the previous day's collection, a trend commonly seen as films move into their second week.

With the latest numbers, the movie's India net collection stands at Rs 38.70 crore, while its India gross earnings have reached Rs 45.96 crore. Overseas markets contributed an additional Rs 0.75 crore on Day 8, taking the international total to Rs 12.60 crore. As a result, the film's worldwide gross collection has climbed to an impressive Rs 58.56 crore.

Day-wise India Net Collection:

Day 1 – Rs 7.50 crore

Day 2 – Rs 7.50 crore

Day 3 – Rs 9 crore

Day 4 – Rs 3.50 crore

Day 5 – Rs 3.85 crore

Day 6 – Rs 2.90 crore

Day 7 – Rs 2.60 crore

Day 8 – Rs 1.85 crore

Total – Rs 38.70 crore

The road ahead is becoming more challenging for Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai as several new releases are competing for audience attention. In its second week, the film is facing competition from Kangana Ranaut's Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata, Imtiaz Ali's Main Vaapas Aaunga, and Manoj Bajpayee's Governor.

During its opening week, the comedy drama also battled for screens and audience footfall against Anurag Kashyap's Bandar, Buchi Babu Sana's Peddi, and the Hollywood fantasy adventure He-Man and the Masters of the Universe.

Directed by David Dhawan, the film stars Varun Dhawan alongside Mrunal Thakur and Pooja Hegde. The supporting cast includes Rakesh Bedi, Maniesh Paul, Jimmy Shergill, Mouni Roy, Chunky Pandey, Manoj Pahwa, and Kubbra Sait. Released on June 5, 2026, the entertainer continues its box-office journey with hopes of adding more milestones in the coming days.

Zoe Kravitz gets candid on marriage and why she's being 'realistic'

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 06:30:30 +0530

Actor Zoe Kravitz has shared fresh insights into her thoughts on marriage, motherhood and balancing family life with her career, saying she wants to be "realistic" about how she spends her energy in the future, according to People.

Future Plans and Personal Life

The 37-year-old actor spoke candidly about the possibility of starting a family and how it may affect her work as a filmmaker. "You just kind of have to be realistic. If I want to do something well, I have to focus on it. Knowing myself, I'm not going to have a kid and direct movies at exactly the same time," Kravitz said. "You just have to decide where you want your energy to be," she added.

Kravitz's comments come months after People confirmed in April that she is engaged to singer and actor Harry Styles. The confirmation followed speculation after Kravitz was spotted wearing a large ring on her left hand, according to People. The couple was first linked romantically in August 2025 after they were seen walking arm in arm in Rome. A source told People at the time that Styles was "spending time with Kravitz while she was on her 'Caught Stealing' press run."

On Aging and Societal Expectations

While discussing parenthood, Kravitz's recent remarks echo thoughts she previously shared in an interview in 2022, when she said she never felt pressured to become a mother by a certain age.

"We all go from being the baby, where you're like, 'I have so much time.' And then, all of a sudden, your gynecologist is like, 'Want to freeze your eggs?' And I'm like, 'I hadn't even thought about that,' " she recalled. "But I don't feel pressured to have kids by a certain time, if I ever have kids," she continued. "This idea of like, you're 30. You're a grown-up. Now you're supposed to have kids and stop having fun, because that's for children -- I bought that for a second," according to People.

The actor said she eventually moved away from societal expectations surrounding adulthood and parenthood. "It was like, 'I don't go out anymore. I just make roast chickens.' But I still want to go on adventures, have fun nights, and see the sunrise," she said.

Kravitz added that she reminds herself there is no deadline for major life milestones and that she hopes to maintain a sense of curiosity and joy throughout her life, according to People. "It's been an interesting journey of remembering that there's no finish line that I have to get to by a certain time," she explained. "Playful, mischievous behaviour is something I always hope to have, even when I'm 70 years old. The point of being alive is to experience life and play with it. There's still so much fun to be had," she added, according to People.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Nitin Gadkari lauds 'Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata' for its 26/11 realism

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 06:00:27 +0530

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari attended the grand premiere of the film 'Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata' and lauded the movie for its realistic portrayal of the bravery displayed by nurses at Mumbai's Cama Hospital during the 26/11 terror attacks.

Gadkari on 26/11 Memories and Inspiring Youth

Speaking at the event here, Gadkari said the film brings back memories of the tragic attacks and highlights the extraordinary courage shown by healthcare workers in the face of danger. "The film 'Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata' evokes memories of the past. I was in Mumbai when the terrorist attacks took place; after striking VT Station, the terrorists entered Cama Hospital. The film realistically portrays the immense courage shown by the nurses there as they worked to save lives," the Union Minister told reporters.

He further expressed hope that the movie would inspire younger generations to serve the nation with commitment and dedication. "I hope that watching it will inspire new audiences to serve the nation with dedication," he added.

Spotlight on Unsung Heroes

Kangana on Film's Title and Screening

Recently, actor and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut attended a special screening of her film 'Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata' in the national capital. She was joined by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. Earlier, at the trailer launch of the film, Kangana revealed that the title 'Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata' was inspired by a phrase used by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to describe workers and labourers. "The name Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata was given by the Prime Minister in 2025. He named the specially-abled as 'Divyangjan'. He also changed the name of the scheme for widows to 'Kalyani'. The workers who make things with their hands were named 'Vishwakarma'. In the same manner, he named the labourers as 'Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata'. This touched our hearts, and thus we wanted to keep it as our title," Kangana said.

Portraying Extraordinary Courage

In 'Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata', Kangana portrays a staff nurse, an ordinary woman whose dedication, compassion and service often go unrecognised despite being at the forefront of public service. The film traces the journey of ordinary individuals who displayed extraordinary courage to save more than 400 lives in the face of unimaginable terror.

The film is presented by Dr Jayantilal Gada's PEN Studios and produced by PEN Studios, Manikarnika Films and Paramhans Creations in association with Eunoia Films LLP and Floating Rocks Entertainment Pvt Ltd. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Kathryn Newton to star opposite Cooper Hoffman in Hulu's 'Durango'

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 00:30:37 +0530

Actor Kathryn Newton will star opposite Cooper Hoffman in the Hulu drama pilot 'Durango,' reported Variety. The project follows Mikey (Hoffman), a ski bum townie chasing a buzz, who meets Bunny (Newton), a homeschooled runaway working as a diner waitress. "Together they're riding an avalanche of bad decisions and falling in love while running from cops, criminals, and Mikey's wife in pursuit of their own American dream," reads the logline.

In a character description provided by Hulu, Bunny is described as "beguiling, wild and deeply guarded." She is "someone who's always been determined to keep moving -- and her latest stop in Durango is no different. She doesn't trust easily, but something about local snowboarding legend Mikey gets through. When the two end up in the wrong place at the wrong time, the secrets she's spent years burying may finally claw their way out," according to Variety.

According to the outlet, the pilot hails from writer Eliza Clark, who executive produces alongside Michael Ellenberg. The studios are 20th Television and Media Res.

Newton's Recent and Upcoming Roles

Newton most recently starred opposite Samara Weaving in Searchlight's thriller sequel "Ready or Not 2," which debuted at SXSW. She's currently filming Roxy Sophie Sorkin's feature directorial debut "Hot Year," and next she'll be seen in "Avengers: Doomsday," out in December, as Cassie Lang, the daughter of Paul Rudd's Ant-Man. Her other credits include "Ant-Man," "Big Little Lies" and the upcoming "Samo Lives" and "Devil's Mouth."

Newton is represented by Entertainment 360, WME and Hansen, Jacobson, Teller, Hoberman, Newman, Warren, Richman, Rush, Kaller, Gellman, Meigs & Fox. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

'House of Guinness': Netflix renews Irish drama for second season

Asianet News Central — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 00:00:22 +0530

'House of Guinness,' Netflix's period drama based on the famed Irish brewing family, has been renewed for the second season, reported Variety.

According to the outlet, a second season of the show, created by Stephen Knight, has now been greenlit by the streamer, with production due to kick off in early 2027.

About House of Guinness Season 1

Set in 1860s Ireland, the first season of "House of Guinness" centred on the power-hungry heirs of the beer dynasty following the death of their patriarch, brewing mogul Sir Benjamin Guinness, as they sought to take over and expand the alcoholic empire he built.

Awash in toxic sibling rivalry and violent political turmoil, the show -- produced by the Banijay-owned Kudos -- was instantly likened to a frothy-topped "Succession"-meets-"Peaky Blinders" after it launched in September 2025.

Ensemble Cast

The ensemble cast was led by Anthony Boyle, Louis Partridge, Emily Fairn and Fionn O'Shea as the main Guinness family, plus James Norton, Niamh McCormack, Jack Gleeson, Seamus O'Hara, Michael McElhatton, David Wilmot, Dervla Kirwan, Danielle Galligan and Ann Skelly.

Critical and Audience Reception

According to Variety, the 8-part first season of "House of Guinness" largely proved to be a hit with critics in the U.K. and U.S., who lauded the show as a stylish, gritty and entertaining romp down the cobbled streets of 19th century Dublin (mostly shot in Liverpool and Manchester). It launched with an 89% audience approval on Rotten Tomatoes.

However, it fell foul of many in Ireland, who criticised its historical inaccuracies (it billed itself as fiction inspired by a true story) and portrayal of the country's post-famine politics and the anti-colonial revolutionaries of the time.

Future of the Series

With the first season ending on a major cliffhanger involving one of the key characters, many fans had been expecting a second season to be given the go-ahead. Speaking to the Irish Mirror shortly after the show's release, Knight said he was planning to give the series a "Peaky Blinders"-style expansion. "We are going to do season two and three and four ... we are going to do this all the way to the 1960s," he said, as quoted by Variety.

However, given that Knight is currently busy finishing the script for the next James Bond film, it's unknown how involved he's going to be with "House of Guinness" season two. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Jaspal Rana passes away; Roy Kapur Films mourns, reveals biopic plans

Asianet News Central — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 23:30:33 +0530

Roy Kapur Films Mourns Jaspal Rana, Reveals Biopic Plans

Siddharth Roy Kapur's production house Roy Kapur Films mourned the loss of Indian shooter Jaspal Rana, who passed away at 49 on Friday. The production house also revealed that they were closely working with Rana for his biopic.

Roy Kapur Films, a production house, took to their Instagram handle to extend their condolences to the family of Jaspal Rana. They also paid tribute to the stalwart by remembering his legacy, saying " perhaps his greatest legacy lies beyond the medals in the countless young athletes he inspired, mentored, and shaped through his unwavering dedication to the sport he loved.

"We mourn the passing of Jaspal Rana, a true champion, an extraordinary coach, and one of the architects of India's sporting excellence. His achievements on the shooting range brought glory to the nation, but perhaps his greatest legacy lies beyond the medals in the countless young athletes he inspired, mentored, and shaped through his unwavering dedication to the sport he loved. Throughout his life, he embodied discipline, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, devoting himself to nurturing the next generation of Indian champions," the post read.

Siddharth Roy Kapur's production house in the emotional post also stated that the team was working closely with Rana to develop a script that would bring his story to the celluloid. The post further read, "As we worked together with him on developing his incredible story for celluloid, we were deeply moved by his passion and singular commitment to helping his students realise their full potential and always being focused on the future of Indian sport. Yet beyond his achievements and dedication, what we will cherish most is his irreverence, his dry sense of humour, and his remarkable ability to keep everyone around him laughing. No matter the situation, he had us in splits with his stories, wit, and infectious spirit, bringing joy to every interaction." https://www.instagram.com/p/DZe78DnNIVd/?

A Decorated Career

One of India's most decorated shooters, Rana leaves behind a remarkable legacy spanning more than three decades. He remains India's most successful Commonwealth Games athlete, having won an extraordinary 15 medals -- nine gold, four silver and two bronze -- across the 1994, 1998, 2002 and 2006 editions of the Games.

His achievements extended well beyond the Commonwealth stage. Rana secured four gold medals and one silver at the Asian Games, including a gold medal at the 1994 Hiroshima Asian Games and a historic haul of three gold medals at the 2006 Doha Asian Games. At the 1994 World Shooting Championships in Milan, he clinched gold while setting a record score. He also equalled the world record in the 25m Centre Fire Pistol event with an aggregate score of 590 during the 2006 Asian Games.

Known for his grit and determination, Rana famously won three gold medals in Doha despite competing with a high fever, a feat that remains one of the most celebrated achievements in Indian shooting history.

Transition to Coaching and Mentorship

After retiring from competition, Rana devoted himself to coaching and talent development. As a junior national coach, he identified and nurtured several future stars, including Manu Bhaker and Saurabh Chaudhary.

Despite a widely publicised fallout with Bhaker before the Tokyo Olympics, the two later reunited, with Rana playing a key role in her successful campaign that culminated in two bronze medals at the Paris Olympics in 2024. At the time of his death, Rana was serving as India's high-performance coach for pistol events. His contributions as both champion shooter and mentor have left an enduring mark on Indian sport. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Mumbai International Film Festival 2026 gets 1,459 entries globally

Asianet News Central — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 23:01:23 +0530

The 19th edition of the Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF) is scheduled to be held from June 15 to 21, which will include the screening of international and national films along with masterclasses from the renowned personalities of cinema.

Addressing a curtain raiser press conference today, Managing Director, NFDC, Prakash Magdum said that MIFF 2026 received an overwhelming response with 1,459 film entries from across the world. At the press conference, Prakash Magdum revealed that the Competition Section comprises 144 films, including 52 international and 92 national entries, representing filmmakers from 13 countries.

Festival Highlights and Special Screenings

Whereas, the non-competition section will feature a total of 202 films, including 106 international titles and 96 national films from 46 participating countries, with the collective presentation of over 83 hours of screenings. The section will be organised across 24 curated segments, including Mosaic, Best of Fest, Busan Next Wave, Oscar Winners, Raimund Krumme Retrospective, NFDC Showcase, Echoes from North East, and Marathi Films, among others, bringing together acclaimed works, emerging voices, and regionally rooted storytelling on a single platform. Filmmaker and natural historian David Attenborough will also be honoured with the screening of his two films under 'Centenary Tribute'.

Speaking on the occasion, Swati Mhase Patil, Managing Director, Maharashtra Film, Stage and Cultural Development Corporation, said, "MIFF has evolved into one of Asia's most respected platforms for non-feature cinema, bringing together filmmakers, producers, broadcasters, students, critics and audiences from across the globe," as quoted in a press release by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

Highlighting the Marathi Films section, she said that "the initiative would provide an international platform for Marathi storytelling, culture, heritage and cinematic excellence. She further noted that Maharashtra is poised to emerge not only as India's premier filming destination but also as a global hub for meaningful and impactful storytelling."

The Opening Films will include the animated work Good Luck to You All, directed by Cordell Barker (Canada), the short fiction Agapito, directed by Arvin Belarmino and Kyla Danelle Romero (Philippines), and the documentary Time and Water, directed by Sara Dosa (United States & Iceland).

The Mid-Fest lineup, scheduled on June 18, will include the animated film Eeny, Meeny, Miny, Moe! directed by Andrea Szelesova (Czech Republic & Slovakia), the short fiction Hyena directed by Altay Ulan Yang (United States), and the documentary I Love You, I Leave You directed by Moris Freiburghaus (Switzerland), each offering distinct storytelling styles and international perspectives.

Awards and Recognitions

According to the press note, the festival will confer 18 awards across international and national competition categories, carrying a total prize money of Rs 45 lakh along with trophies and certificates. A major highlight of the opening ceremony will be the presentation of the prestigious V. Shantaram Lifetime Achievement Award, coinciding with the 125th birth anniversary year of the legendary filmmaker.

Industry Connect and New Initiatives

The 19th MIFF will also feature 10 masterclasses led by renowned film practitioners, covering filmmaking, storytelling, acting, screenwriting, and cinematography. The Indian Documentary Producers' Association (IDPA) will organise five open forum discussions on the sidelines of film screenings at the 19th MIFF, as per the press release.

The NFDC Managing Director, Prakash Magdum, shared the details of the AI Hackathon and masterclasses, which will take place at the film festival. While talking to ANI, Magdum said, "The speciality of this lecture is that we have selected 10 topics from the masterclasses. The people who are qualified in this field will come and share their knowledge. Apart from that, we have started a documentary film bazaar. The purpose of this bazaar is that documentaries do not have much market potential. We want to keep selected documentaries in front of film distributors and streaming platforms."

"Thirdly, this time we are going to do AI film hackathon because you all know that AI as a tool is being used a lot in filmmaking. So how is it happening? What is happening in it? Because it is still an evolving medium. So in this hackathon, we want to see how the new young filmmakers use this tool. We are giving an opportunity for that in this festival. We are going to give 18 awards," added Magdum.

For the first time, MIFF will host an AI Cinema Hackathon titled "Mumbai Through a Thousand Eyes", a 48-hour global filmmaking challenge exploring AI-driven storytelling. The festival will also feature 10 masterclasses and multiple panel discussions with eminent filmmakers and industry experts.

Swati Patil, Managing Director, Maharashtra Film, Stage and Cultural Development Corporation, shared the significance of Marathi documentaries, which will screen this year at the festival. While talking to ANI, Swati Patil said, "This time we have a separate showcase for Marathi documentaries. It will be screened in Ravindra Nathya Mandir from 16 to 20. It will be screened from 6.30 to 8.30. So I request that a lot of student filmmakers and novice filmmakers should benefit from this."

Screening Venues and Additional Sections

Apart from the NFDC complex, the screenings will also take place at Ravindra Natya Mandir at Dadar & two colleges, namely SVKM's UshaPravin Gandhi College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Ville Parle, and St Paul's Institute of Communication Education, Bandra West This year's edition has also introduced two new curated sections, 'Marathi Films' and 'Echoes from Northeast' aimed at showcasing regional cinematic voices and celebrating India's cultural diversity.

According to the press note, the Waves Doc Bazar section will showcase a strong industry-focused selection, reflecting its role as a key platform for documentary talent and market engagement. This year, a total of 155 entries will be featured, alongside 5 projects in the Work in Progress (WIP) Lab and 12 films under Film Bazaar Recommends, with the Viewing Room hosting all 155 films for industry access and evaluation. The section will also facilitate robust B2B networking opportunities, with leading platforms and broadcasters including Netflix, Zee, Sony, Stage OTT, and Waves OTT confirmed for meetings, reinforcing its position as a significant marketplace for documentary discovery, collaboration, and distribution.

Student registrations for MIFF 2026 have been kept free of charge. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

'Gram Chikitsalay' Season 2 trailer: Amol Parashar faces new tests

Asianet News Central — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 23:00:27 +0530

'Gram Chikitsalay' Season 2 Trailer Details

The makers of 'Gram Chikitsalay' have unveiled the trailer for the second season of the show, offering a glimpse into Amol Parahsar's battle to revive Bhathkandi's PHC amid the challenges. Directed by Lalitam Tiwari and written by Vaibhav Suman and Shreya Srivastava, created by Deepak Kumar Mishra and Arunabh Kumar, Gram Chikitsalay Season Two is produced by The Viral Fever, featuring Amol Parashar, Akash Makhija, Anandeshwar Dwivedi, Vinay Pathak, Akansha Ranjan Kapoor, Garima Vikrant Singh and Dinesh Lal Yadav in lead roles

The trailer offers a glimpse into Dr. Prabhat's (played by Amol Parashar) ongoing mission to revive the struggling Primary Health Centre in Bhathkandi. Just when he thinks he has finally won over the villagers, a fresh set of challenges lands on his treatment table. Convinced that earning the coveted "Adarsh PHC" title is the key to solving his problems, Dr. Prabhat soon discovers that success demands far more than medical expertise and a well-run health centre. Prime Video shared the trailer on its Instagram handle. View this post on Instagram

Amol Parashar on His Character's Journey

Amol Parashar, who plays the lead protagonist Dr Prabhat in the series, shared details on his character in season two and revealed the reason behind his association with the show. "In the latest chapter, my character's journey in Bhathkandi moves forward in unexpected ways. He has experienced some good wins, but a whole new set of challenges comes his way. What I love about this series is how it highlights some of the very real and concerning issues within rural healthcare, and how these are tackled with humour, warmth, and emotions, making the narrative relatable for audiences across all ages and regions," as quoted in a press note.

Release Date

Prime Original series Gram Chikitsalay Season Two will premiere exclusively on Prime Video on June 23. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Anil Kapoor to host new reality show 'India ke top 1%' on Star Plus

Asianet News Central — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 22:30:37 +0530

Actor Anil Kapoor is set to host a reality show 'India ke top 1%' which will air on Star Plus.

According to the press note by the makers, Anil Kapoor's new reality show promises a high-stakes battle of wit, logic, observation, and quick decision-making.

The show will highlight reasoning, common sense, mental agility, and the ability to stay composed under pressure in the contestant.

Star Plus shared the promo for the show in which Anil Kapoor was seen ranting about the lack of significance of college degrees and the stress on the importance of intelligence and knowledge. The channel shared the promo on their Instagram handle.

Anil Kapoor on 'India ke top 1%'

Opening up about why India Ke Top 1% resonates with him, Anil Kapoor said that he has always believed that India is a nation driven by raw instinct, unmatched observation, and incredible street-smartness.

Anil Kapoor said, "Walk down any street in our country, and you will find people who can outsmart anyone under the sun, not because they memorised an encyclopedia, but because their brainpower is sharpened by life experiences. In India, we take immense pride in being 'jugadu'--it's our ultimate superpower that makes Indians everywhere the top 1% of their fields. That's why when I saw the format of "India ke top 1%", it instantly clicked with me. This isn't a show that asks you which year the so-and-so treaty was signed; it gauges how efficiently your mind can function under pressure using pure logic and common sense. It completely levels the playing field!" as quoted by the press note.

He further added, "I am thrilled to host the show on Star Plus. We are giving our people a stage to flaunt the logical prowess that is so unique to India and Indians, and I'm proud to play my part in it," as quoted in the press note.

Premiere and Upcoming Projects

India Ke Top 1% premieres soon on Star Plus. On the theatre front, the actor will be seen in the upcoming film of Jr NTR and Prashanth Neel's directorial 'Dragon'. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Manoj Tiwari releases 'Sapna Hai Yahi Modi Ka' for PM's 12 years

Asianet News Central — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 21:30:47 +0530

Singer and Bharatiya Janta Party MP Manoj Tiwari has released a song 'Sapna Hai Yahi Modi Ka' on the occassion of the completion of 12 years of the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The three-minute and fifty-second song features visuals of Prime Minister Narendra Modi at temples, the Parliament, and various science exhibitions. Additionally, the lyrics narrate the Prime Minister's deep love for the nation and his dedication to upholding its honour. 'Sapna Hah Yahi Modi Ka' also recounts the loving welcome the Prime Minister has received from over the years during his rallies in different parts of the country. BJP has shared the song on their X handle today. भारत ध्वज फहराता रहे, यही धुन है राष्ट्रयोगी का, सपना है यही मोदी का... श्री मनोज तिवारी की आवाज में सुनिए, “भारत के लिए सपना पीएम मोदी का” pic.twitter.com/4weEdeZ1yn — BJP (@BJP4India) June 12, 2026

PM Modi Becomes Longest-Serving Elected Prime Minister

Prime Minister Narendra Modi created history by becoming the longest continuously serving elected Prime Minister of India on June 10. PM Modi completed 4,399 consecutive days in office, surpassing the record of the country's first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, who served 4,398 days after the first general election.

Film Fraternity Congratulates PM on Milestone

Several members of the film fraternity congratulated the Prime Minister on the milestone, praising his leadership, dedication and contribution to the country's development.

Mukesh Rishi Lauds PM's Work Ethic

Actor Mukesh Rishi lauded Modi's work ethic and commitment to the nation, saying that his journey offers valuable lessons to citizens."... I am happy that we are able to see and feel this achievement. I would like to say that your discipline and the way you work, and your commitment to the country, give us a lot to learn. And we have learned," Rishi told ANI

Highlighting the visible changes in infrastructure across the country, he added, "The achievements that we have seen here in the past few years, we have experienced them. We have not just studied them. If we have taken a car and travelled on the roads, we have seen the highways there. We have seen their development. If we have taken a plane from an airport, we have seen that airport...And not just for metro cities, but in almost all the states of the country, there are excellent airports and hospitals. So, this achievement is very big...."

He further said that the country would always remember Modi's contribution and wished him good health and continued service to the nation. "So, it is my wish that you always remain healthy....For this achievement, I wish you very good luck...," he said.

Vindu Dara Singh Calls It a Historic Moment

Actor Vindu Dara Singh described the occasion as a historic moment and credited Modi's rise from a party worker to the nation's leader. "4399, this is not just a number, it's history that Modi ji has created. A small party worker who reached such heights that he became the 'Pradhan Sevak' of the country, not just a Minister," he said.

Expressing hope that PM Modi continues to lead the country for years to come, Vindu added, "As long as Modi ji is healthy, and his mind and body are functioning at this speed, he should continue to lead this country. We are very happy. Ever since we were born, we have wanted a Prime Minister like this, especially when the whole world is in turmoil and facing troubles. India is saved because we have such a leader."

He also praised the Prime Minister for giving the nation direction and earning global respect. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Dhamaal 4 trailer: Ajay Devgn, Arshad Warsi embark on a treasure hunt

Asianet News Central — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 21:00:27 +0530

The trailer of the fourth instalment from the 'Dhamaal' franchise is finally out, starring an ensemble cast of Ajay Devgn, Arshad Warsi and others in the lead roles. The trailer marks the return of the Dhamaal gang as they embark on the biggest treasure hunt of their lives.

Tapping into nostalgia, Dhamaal 4 is packed with iconic comic moments and memorable dialogues that pay tribute to the franchise's first instalment. The three-minute-and-twenty-seven-second trailer opens with the announcement of a hidden treasure, setting Ajay Devgn, Arshad Warsi, Riteish Deshmukh, and Ravi Kishan on an adventurous quest to find it. Filled with slapstick humour, the trailer features several laugh-out-loud moments, including Jaaved Jaaferi's hilarious encounter with an alligator and Ajay Devgn's amusing reference to his iconic film Phool Aur Kaante, among many others.

T Series shared the trailer on their X. Theek saamne, aapko woh play button dikh raha hai? Haan, usse daba dijiye ▶️#Dhamaal4 Trailer Out Now! - https://t.co/6epkzgHKau Watch the biggest family entertainer in cinemas worldwide from 10th July.@ajaydevgn @ArshadWarsi @Riteishd @jaavedjaaferi @imsanjaimishra… pic.twitter.com/pIw2ShlN46 — T-Series (@TSeries) June 12, 2026

Star-Studded Ensemble Cast

Promising a rib-tickling entertainer for audiences of all ages, 'Dhamaal 4' brings together an ensemble cast featuring Ajay Devgn, Arshad Warsi, Riteish Deshmukh, Jaaved Jaaferi, and Sanjay Mishra, along with Esha Gupta, Sanjeeda Shaikh, Anjali Anand, Upendra Limaye, Vijay Patkar and Ravi Kishan.

Production and Release Details

Gulshan Kumar and T-Series present, in association with Devgn Films, a T-Series Films, Maruti International, Panorama Studios production. DHAMAAL 4 is directed by Indra Kumar and produced by Ajay Devgn, Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, Ashok Thakeria, Indra Kumar, Anand Pandit, and Kumar Mangat Pathak. The movie is slated to release in theatres worldwide on July 10, 2026. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

'Perfect Family' trailer: Dysfunctional family seeks therapy in show

Asianet News Central — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 20:01:34 +0530

Pankaj Tripathi's debut production 'Perfect Family's trailer is finally out, offering a glimpse into a dysfunctional family's decision to pursue therapy. Created by Palak Bhambri and directed by Sachin Pathak, this eight-episode series marks Pankaj Tripathi's debut as a producer. The ensemble cast includes Neha Dhupia, Manoj Pahwa, Seema Pahwa, Girija Oak Godbole, Gulshan Devaiah, and Kaveri Seth, who bring the Karkaria family to vivid, chaotic life.

What the Trailer Reveals

The trailer introduces the Karkarias family, led by Manoj Pahwa and Seema Pahwa. The two-minute-and-twenty-three-second trailer opens with a lively family discussion about the theme for their upcoming party. The cheerful conversation was followed by a heated confrontation between Gulshan Devaiah and Manoj Pahwa.

While everything appears normal on the surface, the household is riddled with underlying toxicity. Amid the constant conflicts and tension among the elders, the youngest member of the family suffers an emotional breakdown. To address the situation and find a way forward, a counsellor advises the family members to undergo family therapy. As the sessions progress, long-suppressed emotions and unspoken truths begin to surface.

Cast Shares Insights on the Show

Neha Dhupia plays the role of the therapist in the film. Sony Liv shared the trailer on their Instagram. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sony LIV (@sonylivindia) Neha Dhupia praised the show for showcasing "honesty" in the family. "The beauty of this show lies in its honesty. It doesn't try to give easy answers or perfect characters. It simply holds up a mirror to family dynamics in a very raw and relatable way," said Dhupia as quoted in a press note.

Girija Oak Godbole said, "What I loved most about Perfect Family is how real it feels. Every character is flawed, emotional, and messy, just like all of us. It's a story that will make people pause, reflect, and maybe even call their loved ones after watching it."

Streaming Details

Perfect Family streaming exclusively on Sony LIV from June 26. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Delhi HC issues notice on Salman Khan's plea against 'Kala Hiran' film

Asianet News Central — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 19:01:25 +0530

The Delhi High Court on Friday issued notice on an application moved by Bollywood actor Salman Khan seeking to restrain the release and promotion of the film 'Kala Hiran: The Battle for Legacy', which he alleged violates his personality rights and harms his reputation.

The matter came up before Justice Neena Bansal Krishna in a pending commercial suit filed by Khan concerning the protection of his personality and publicity rights.

Khan's Plea in Court

During the hearing, Advocate Nizam Pasha appearing for Khan submitted that the actor's personality rights, including his image, likeness and other aspects of his identity, had already been recognised and protected by the High Court in an earlier order. It was argued that despite such protection, a poster released on May 29 allegedly depicted a person bearing Khan's likeness and wearing a bracelet resembling the blue bracelet closely associated with the actor.

Advocate Nizam Pasha further submitted that the proposed film is linked to criminal proceedings that have received extensive media attention. Referring to the blackbuck hunting case, it was stated that there were four FIRs, that Khan had been acquitted in three of them, while proceedings in one matter remain pending in appeal. The Court was told that defamatory statements concerning the actor were being circulated in the media regularly and that an injunction was therefore being sought against the film.

Court's Response and Next Hearing

Khan's counsel also informed the Court that the film's trailer had been released on Friday morning. Observing that notice was required to be issued to the respondents before any interim order could be considered, Justice Krishna remarked that "even if it's a notice for a day, it is required."

Dictating the order, the Court noted that the application had been filed against producer Amit Jani, Jani FireFox Films, director Bharat Shrinate, Akshay Pandey and others associated with the project. Notice was directed to be issued on the application. The Court also took note of Khan's application under Order XXXIX, Rules 1 and 2 of the Code of Civil Procedure, seeking a stay on the release of 'Kala Hiran: The Battle for Legacy'. Recording the submission that the trailer had been released on Friday, despite an earlier indication that it would be released on June 20, the Court listed the matter for further hearing on June 19.

Details of the Actor's Application

According to Khan's application, the film and its promotional material are inspired by or based upon events connected with the 1998 blackbuck hunting case involving the actor. The plea contends that while Khan's name may not be expressly used, the film's posters, promotional material and public statements by persons associated with the project make him readily identifiable to viewers.

The application refers to a poster released in May 2026 that allegedly depicts a character resembling Khan and wearing a bracelet similar to the actor's signature blue bracelet. The plea further claimed that the character is shown holding a firearm despite Khan's acquittal in proceedings under the Arms Act, which, according to the actor, creates a misleading impression.

Khan has also argued that the film's storyline appears to draw from matters that remain the subject of judicial proceedings before higher courts. The plea submits that dissemination of content based on such issues could prejudice pending proceedings and interfere with his right to a fair trial.

The application additionally relies on media interviews, social media posts and public statements attributed to producer Amit Jani, which allegedly linked the film to the blackbuck case and to gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. Khan contends that such references are being used to generate publicity by drawing upon his identity and public persona.

Relief Sought and Respondents

According to the plea, a legal notice was issued on April 24, 2026 calling upon those associated with the project to cease development and promotion of the film. However, Khan alleges that promotional activities continued despite the notice, leading him to seek urgent relief from the Court.

The actor has sought orders restraining the respondents from releasing, publishing, advertising, exhibiting or disseminating any teaser, trailer, poster or other promotional material relating to 'Kala Hiran: The Battle for Legacy', and from proceeding with the film's release pending adjudication of the dispute.

The respondents named in the proceedings include Amit Jani, Jani FireFox Films, Bharat Shrinate, Akshay Pandey, and other persons allegedly associated with the development and promotion of the project. The matter will next be heard on June 19. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Don 3 Controversy: Why Ranveer Singh’s Exit Triggered a Major Controversy; Read On

Amrita Ghosh — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 18:14:15 +0530

Don 3 Controversy: The controversy surrounding Ranveer Singh’s departure from Don 3 has taken a fresh turn after FWICE advisor Ashoke Pandit revealed that the makers had already spent Rs 45 crore on the project before the actor reportedly exited

FWICE chief advisor Ashoke Pandit has claimed that the producers of Don 3 approached the federation with documents showing that nearly Rs 45 crore had already been spent on the film's pre-production. According to him, such expenses are common for a large-scale project with a budget reportedly around Rs 300 crore. The issue arose when Ranveer Singh allegedly withdrew from the film shortly before shooting was scheduled to begin.

ALSO READ: Karuppu Box Office Collection Day 28: Suriya’s Film Crosses Rs 306 Crore Worldwide

Pandit stated that the production team was just three weeks away from commencing filming when the actor decided to step away. Travel tickets had reportedly been booked, hotel arrangements were finalized, and other logistical preparations were in place. He emphasized that producers generally make such financial commitments only after receiving firm assurances from key cast members.

What initially appeared to be a routine casting change soon escalated into a major industry controversy. Reports suggest that Ranveer Singh was dissatisfied with production delays and concerns related to the script. In response, Farhan Akhtar-led Excel Entertainment reportedly sought Rs 45 crore in compensation. FWICE also issued a non-cooperation directive against the actor, although the order has since been withdrawn. The dispute remains one of Bollywood's most discussed industry conflicts in recent months.

Katrina Kaif To Make A Big Comeback With THIS Actress In Chandni Bar 2? Here's What We Know

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 17:21:13 +0530

Bollywood star Katrina Kaif has been missing from the big screen for a while, and there's a lot of talk about her return. Now, fresh reports suggest that Katrina might be making her comeback with the much-awaited film, Chandni Bar 2. According to sources, the actress is in talks to join the project. However, neither the makers nor the actors have made any official announcement yet. Katrina was last seen in the 2023 film 'Tiger 3'.

Talks of Katrina Kaif joining Chandni Bar 2

According to media reports, Chandni Bar 2 is being directed by Ajay Bahl. It's said that the film will try to recreate the same gritty world that made the original 'Chandni Bar' a classic almost two decades ago. The makers haven't shared many details about the story, but reports suggest the sequel will once again focus on a red-light area and its links to the crime world.

Tabu might also be part of the film

Reports also claim that actress Tabu could be a part of this project. Tabu played the lead role in the original 'Chandni Bar', which was released in 2001. The mention of her name has got the audience even more excited. If both Katrina and Tabu are seen together in this film, it could be one of the most talked-about casting decisions in Bollywood.

No official announcement so far

For now, nothing about the film has been officially confirmed. Despite this, the buzz around this potential casting is growing on social media and within the film industry. Movie lovers are curious to know if Katrina Kaif will actually be a part of this project and what her role will be.

The special place of 'Chandni Bar' in Bollywood

Released in 2001, 'Chandni Bar' is one of Bollywood's most acclaimed films. It was directed by Madhur Bhandarkar. The story was based on the life of a bar dancer who struggles to make her way through a world filled with poverty, crime, and violence. The film grabbed the attention of both audiences and critics.

Tabu's performance was highly praised

Tabu played the main character in 'Chandni Bar', and her acting is still considered one of the best performances of her career. The film received a positive response from critics and at the box office. That's why it is still counted among films known for realistic and impactful storytelling.

The controversy around 'Chandni Bar 2'

The journey of 'Chandni Bar 2' hasn't been entirely smooth. Last year, a controversy erupted over the film's title. Director Madhur Bhandarkar had objected to producer Sandeep Singh and director Ajay Bahl using the 'Chandni Bar' name. The matter even reached the Indian Motion Picture Producers' Association (IMPPA).

What did the producers say?

During the dispute, the producers said that they had legally acquired the rights from the original filmmakers and had every right to go ahead with the project. This led to a lot of legal and industry-level discussions.

Excitement is building up for the film

Right now, there are many unanswered questions about 'Chandni Bar 2'. Everyone is waiting for official information about the film's star cast, story, and release. However, one thing is clear: if Katrina Kaif signs this film, it could become one of the most-hyped casting decisions in Bollywood. It would also be seen as a major comeback for her career.

Spielberg’s Disclosure Day Review | Overhyped Or Masterpiece Sci-Fi Return?

Asianet Newsable English — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 17:18:54 +0530

Steven Spielberg returns with Disclosure Day, a sci-fi thriller exploring alien disclosure, government secrets, and human fear. With strong performances from Emily Blunt and Josh O’Connor, the film delivers stunning visuals, emotional storytelling, and classic Spielberg magic. But is it truly groundbreaking or slightly overhyped? Here’s the full breakdown of story, direction, visuals, and impact.

Governor Movie Review: Fans Give Mixed Reactions To Manoj Bajpayee's Political Thriller

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 17:09:46 +0530

If it is a Manoj Bajpayee film, it has to be a banger! There's no doubt that he is one of the most loved and celebrated actors in the film industry. He has impressed one and all with his extraordinary craft over the years, and there's no denying that. The actor's film, Governor, also starring the multi-talented actress Adah Sharma, has hit the theatres today. Fans are already sharing their reviews of the film on the social media platform X. Let's get to know more about it.

Fans Review Manoj Bajpayee's Governor

Some fans feel that Manoj did an exceptional job in narrating the true story of how India was saved from total bankruptcy during the massive 1991 economic crisis. Some called the movie an absolute hit, some felt it missed a mark. Check out X review.

#Governor feels like the kind of film that reminds us how many important stories remain untold. At the center is an unsung hero who played a significant role during a defining period for the nation. #ManojBajpayee's presence alone makes it exciting, and #VipulAmrutlalShah… pic.twitter.com/oQIXQy7qdz

— Neeti Roy (@neetiroy) June 11, 2026

Movie: GovernorRating: ⭐⭐⭐½Review: INSIGHTFUL#ManojBajpayee delivers fantastic performance in this riveting tale of India's biggest economic crises #Governor #GovernorReview@bajpayeemanoj @Aashin_A_Shah @adah_sharma @sunshinepicturehttps://t.co/hz7Gl2cbpR

— Cinetales (@cine_tales) June 12, 2026

#GovernorReview : Missed Opportunity ⭐⭐ (2.5/5)#Governor had all the ingredients to be a gripping political-economic thriller. The 1991 financial crisis remains one of the most fascinating chapters in India's modern history, and the story of how the country navigated its… pic.twitter.com/4m7hxYMLtI

— Movie_Reviews (@MovieReview_Hub) June 12, 2026

#Governor is absolute cinematic excellence! Brilliant storytelling met with a powerhouse, understated performance by @BajpayeeManoj. Incredible execution of a fascinating topic. #GovernorReview #Bollywood #GreatCinema #IndianCinema

— Harshil (@bodatharshil_) June 12, 2026

#VipulAmrutlalShah brings #Governor, where #ManojBajpayee plays the unsung hero at the centre of important historical decisions. The film highlights a phase that shaped the country in many ways. This is the kind of cinema that feels important to experience in theatres. pic.twitter.com/x3nPLyHeUr

— SantaBanta.com (@santa_banta) June 11, 2026

GRIPPING FINANCIAL THRILLER or PROPAGANDA?#Governor is officially polarizing the nation! The Good:#ManojBajpayee is in a league of his own. He delivers a masterclass in quiet steel as the apex bank chief carrying a failing country on his shoulders. Director… pic.twitter.com/s6NdnBotGP

— Cine Probe (@Cineprobe) June 12, 2026

About The Movie

Governor is set in the year 1990, when India was facing a terrible financial breakdown, wherein the country's foreign cash reserve dropped to just $1 billion, which was barely enough to pay for a week's imports. Yes, owing to the global issues like the Gulf War, oil prices reaching the roof, and hiked inflation, the country was on the edge of total collapse.

Fadnavis on Pranit More row: Comedy must not cross decency limits

Asianet News Central — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 16:30:22 +0530

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, in the wake of the controversy surrounding comedian Pranit More, has said that stand-up comedy should remain unrestricted but warned that crossing limits of decency can infringe on others' rights. Fadnavis' remarks on Friday came a day after Maharashtra Cyber registered an FIR over allegedly obscene and objectionable content circulated online from a comedy show held in Gurugram.

Addressing a media interaction, Fadnavis said freedom of expression is protected under the Constitution, but also comes with certain responsibilities and safeguards. "The Constitution of India grants everyone the freedom of expression. However, it also establishes safeguards to ensure this freedom is not misused. When expression becomes unrestrained, it infringes upon the right of individuals in society to live with dignity," Fadnavis said.

'Comedy should have minimum dignity'

The Chief Minister also noted that stand-up comedy is a popular form of entertainment and said he personally enjoys watching it. However, he stressed that humour should not cross accepted social boundaries or compromise basic standards of decency. He spoke about the need for maintaining "dignity" and societal limits in comedy performances. "While everyone enjoys stand-up comedy, and I watch it myself, it is not right to violate societal boundaries or the limits of dignity in the pursuit of entertainment. That would amount to an injustice against people. Therefore, I feel that stand-up comedy should be performed with due regard for at least the minimum parameters of dignity."

FIR over 'obscene' content

His remarks came shortly after Maharashtra Cyber announced that a case had been registered after Nodal Cyber Police Station against stand-up comedian Pranit More, Himanshu Jangra, Dr Sejal Pawar and others for alleged obscene, offensive, and objectionable remarks concerning women, consent, and deceased persons, according to Maharashtra Cyber.

The present case arises from certain videos and clips circulated through YouTube, Instagram, and other social media platforms in connection with a programme hosted by More. The content being widely circulated allegedly contains obscene, offensive, and objectionable remarks concerning women, consent, and deceased persons, which are against accepted societal norms and attract provisions of criminal law. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Sharvari Wagh Net Worth: Inside Alpha Star's Swanky Home, Cars And More

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 15:36:28 +0530

Sharvari Wagh lives a swanky lifestyle, and there's no denying that. From her beautiful home to luxe wheels, we have all the information you need right there. Keep scrolling to read more.

Sharvari Wagh is all set for the release of her massy YRF spy-drama Alpha, also starring Alia Bhatt. The actress lives quite a luxurious life, and today, we bring you a slice of her swanky lifestyle. From cars, homes, and more. Here's a sneak-peek into her living.

As per a report in Hindustan Times Auto, Sharvari owns a swanky Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV priced approximately at Rs 75 lakh. She bought this second-generation luxury vehicle in early 2024.

As per a report in Housivity, Sharvari lives with her family in a luxurious, aesthetically decorated apartment in Mumbai. That is priced at Rs 5 - Rs 15 crore, approximately.

According to a report published in Architectural Digest India, Sharvari's family owns a massive 10,000-square-foot glasshouse-style holiday home in Kamshet, Maharashtra.

Owing to her continuous successful movies, her net worth is of Rs 1 -1.5 Crore, as per Sam TV's report.

Sharvari Wagh has been spotted many times with luxury bags costing Rs 2 lakh to Rs 2.2 lakh. She also wears fancy designer clothes most of the time. Are you excited for her movie, Alpha? Let us know!

'Ab Hoga Hisaab' trailer: Shaheer Sheikh, Sanjay Kapoor's revenge drama

Asianet News Central — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 16:00:59 +0530

A Tale of Brotherhood and Betrayal

The trailer for the upcoming revenge drama series 'Ab Hoga Hisaab' has been released, offering a glimpse into a story of brotherhood, betrayal and a desperate search for the truth. The series, headlined by Sanjay Kapoor, Shaheer Sheikh and Mouni Roy, is set to premiere on Amazon MX Player on June 18.

Set in Punjab, the series follows the lives of two brothers, Bobby and Bunty Manocha, played by Shaheer Sheikh and Avinash Mishra. The trailer introduces Bobby as an elder brother working hard to build a better future for Bunty. Convinced that sending his younger brother abroad will change their lives, Bobby does everything possible to make that dream a reality.

However, things take a dramatic turn when Bunty comes into contact with Goldy, a powerful and influential figure portrayed by Sanjay Kapoor. What begins as an opportunity soon turns into a mystery when Bunty suddenly goes missing. As more unexplained disappearances emerge, Bobby finds himself caught in a web of suspicion, hidden agendas and dangerous secrets while trying to find his brother.

Take a look at the trailer View this post on Instagram A post shared by Amazon MX Player (@amazonmxplayer)

Avinash Mishra on His Streaming Debut

The show also marks Avinash Mishra's debut in the streaming space. Speaking about the project, the actor said Bunty is a character with several layers and that working alongside Sanjay Kapoor and Shaheer Sheikh made the experience memorable.

Cast and Release Details

Apart from Sanjay Kapoor, Shaheer Sheikh and Mouni Roy, the series also stars Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia, Harman Singha and Aasheema Vardaan in key roles.

Produced by Arre Studio, 'Ab Hoga Hisaab' will be available to stream free on Amazon MX Player from June 18 across mobile devices, connected TVs, Prime Video, Fire TV, JioTV and Airtel Xstream. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Janhvi Kapoor Reportedly Earned THIS Whopping Amount for Peddi, Says Trade Source

Amrita Ghosh — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 15:25:29 +0530

Janhvi Kapoor has found herself at the centre of a debate surrounding Peddi after controversial scenes in the film drew criticism online. At the same time, reports about her alleged career-high remuneration have also surfaced

Amid discussions around Peddi, reports have claimed that Janhvi Kapoor was paid Rs 8 crore for her role in the film, making it the biggest remuneration of her acting career so far. According to trade reports, the actress previously earned around Rs 5 crore for Devara, indicating a significant increase in her fee.

ALSO READ: Janhvi Kapoor Peddi Controversy: Jaya Bachchan Spills Old Secrets, Kangana Ranaut Jumps In

Industry insiders also reportedly praised Janhvi's professionalism during the film's production, citing her commitment and conduct on set throughout the shooting schedule.

The film has come under scrutiny over the portrayal of Janhvi Kapoor's character and certain romantic scenes involving Ram Charan's character. Several viewers criticised dialogues and sequences they felt objectified the female lead.

Particular scenes, including comments about the character's appearance and a forced romantic interaction, sparked widespread criticism on social media. Many audiences argued that such portrayals promoted problematic messaging and failed to reflect healthy relationships on screen.

Following the criticism, director Buchi Babu Sana addressed the controversy, explaining that the intention was to depict a playful romantic track between the lead characters. However, he acknowledged that audiences viewed the scenes differently than expected.

The filmmaker stated that the team would be more mindful of representation in future projects. In response to the backlash, the controversial scenes featuring Janhvi Kapoor were subsequently removed from the film, marking a significant step by the makers to address audience concerns.

Annu Kapoor's 'Uttar Da Puttar' teaser unveils quirky comedy-drama

Asianet News Central — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 14:30:33 +0530

Actor Annu Kapoor-starrer 'Uttar Da Puttar' has unveiled its first teaser, offering a glimpse into a comedy-drama that revolves around destiny, family dynamics and the belief that a change in direction could change one's life.

The teaser for the film was released by the makers on Thursday ahead of its theatrical release on July 24, 2026. The teaser maintains a light-hearted tone and hints at a story filled with misunderstandings, quirky situations and unexpected twists. The tagline, "Search For Right Direction Begins...", serves as the central theme around which the narrative unfolds. While the teaser keeps the plot largely under wraps, it introduces audiences to a world where everyday decisions, faith and fate intersect in unexpected ways. Take a look https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZejjExxdmX/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Film's Premise and Star Cast

Directed by Ravinder Siwach and based on a story by producer Sandiip Kapur, 'Uttar Da Puttar' revolves around an unusual premise linked to Vastu and the idea that a person's fortunes can improve by finding the "right direction" in life. Apart from Annu Kapoor, the film also stars Rukhsar Rehman, Brijendra Kala, Pavan Malhotra, Ishtiyak Khan, Jeeveshu Ahluwalia, Rajendra Sethi, Sumit Gulati and Nitin Arora.

Production and Release

'Uttar Da Puttar' is being produced by Sandiip Kapur and Priya Kapur under the banner of Promodome Motion Pictures. The production house is known for backing content-driven films such as Jugaad, Anaarkali of Aarah and the National Award-winning Bhonsle. With Uttar Da Puttar, the studio is once again venturing into unconventional storytelling, this time through a comedy built around destiny, belief and life's unexpected turns.

The film is scheduled to release in cinemas worldwide on July 24, 2026. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Salman Khan sues 'Kala Hiran' makers, moves Delhi HC for injunction

Asianet News Central — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 14:30:26 +0530

Bollywood actor Salman Khan has approached the Delhi High Court seeking interim relief against the makers of the proposed film Kala Hiran: The Battle for Legacy, alleging that the project unlawfully exploits his personality rights and could adversely affect his reputation as well as ongoing judicial proceedings connected to the 1998 blackbuck hunting case.

Khan Seeks Injunction to Halt Film

An application under Order XXXIX Rules 1 and 2 of the Code of Civil Procedure has been filed in an already pending commercial suit before the High Court, seeking an ad-interim injunction restraining the film's producer Amit Jani, Jani FireFox Films, director Bharat Shrinate, Akshay Pandey and other persons associated with the project from producing, promoting, distributing, exhibiting, streaming or releasing the proposed film pending adjudication of the suit.

Plea Alleges Unlawful Exploitation of Persona

According to the plea, the film and its promotional material are allegedly inspired by or based on events relating to the 1998 blackbuck hunting case involving Khan. The actor contends that although his name may not be expressly used, the film's posters, promotional content and public statements by those associated with the project make him readily identifiable to viewers.

The petition states that a poster released in May 2026 depicts a character bearing an alleged resemblance to Khan and wearing a bracelet resembling the actor's widely recognized blue bracelet, which the plea claims has become uniquely associated with him in public imagination. The application further alleges that the character is shown holding a firearm, despite Khan having been acquitted in proceedings under the Arms Act, 1959, thereby creating what the actor describes as a misleading narrative.

Concerns Over Prejudice to Ongoing Cases

Khan has submitted that the film's storyline appears to draw upon matters that remain the subject of ongoing judicial proceedings before the Rajasthan High Court and the Supreme Court. The plea argues that dissemination of content based on such matters could prejudice pending proceedings and interfere with his right to a fair trial.

Previous Legal Action and Producer's Statements

The application also refers to media reports and public statements attributed to producer Amit Jani in which the proposed film was described as being inspired by the blackbuck case and the dispute involving gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. The petition cites interviews, social media posts and promotional material allegedly linking the film to Khan and contends that these materials are being used to generate publicity and commercial interest by drawing upon his public persona.

According to the plea, Khan had earlier issued a legal notice dated April 24, 2026, calling upon those associated with the project to cease and desist from developing, producing and promoting the film. The application states that despite the notice, promotional activities allegedly continued, prompting the actor to seek urgent judicial intervention.

The petition further alleges that certain social media posts made by Amit Jani after receipt of the legal notice sought to publicize the dispute and contained statements that the actor considers defamatory. The application claims that the continued circulation of promotional material and public statements is causing damage to Khan's reputation and goodwill.

Violation of Personality Rights Cited

Khan has argued that the film amounts to a violation of his personality and publicity rights, which were recognized and protected by the Delhi High Court in an earlier order dated November 11, 2025. According to the application, the proposed film, its posters, character depictions and promotional content allegedly seek to capitalize on his fame and identity without authorization for commercial gain.

The actor has sought directions restraining the defendants from releasing, publishing, advertising or disseminating any teaser, trailer, poster or other promotional material relating to Kala Hiran: The Battle for Legacy, as well as an order restraining further development and production of the project until the dispute is finally decided.

The respondents named in the proceedings include producer Amit Jani, Jani FireFox Films, director Bharat Shrinate, Akshay Pandey and other persons allegedly connected with the development and promotion of the film.

Kala Hiran: The Battle for Legacy is being produced under the banner of Jani FireFox Films. The makers have previously maintained in public statements that the project is a creative work and have opposed attempts to restrain its release. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Planning Goa Trip? Kriti Sanon's Vacation Style Is Perfect Blend Of Fun, Comfort And Glam

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 14:03:36 +0530

Planning a trip to Goa with your friends? Let Kriti Sanon's style guide you to a stunning wardrobe options. From florals to denim - we have got it all. Keep scrolling to know more.

Kriti Sanon is all set for the release of her upcoming film Cocktail 2, also starring Rashmika Mandanna and Shahid Kapoor. The actress's looks are already the talk of the town. Today, we bring you Ally's chic wardrobe to look fab for your next Goa vacation.

Peachy, pink summer dresses are an absolute must-have when it comes to vacationing in Goa. Pair it up with funky hair accessories, and you are good to go.

A strappy, cutesy backless dress is all you need, just like Kriti, to bring on the glam to your Goa vacation.

Kriti loves a twist on a funky co-ord set, and so do we. She wore a stunning chequered bralette with a skirt and paired it with a see-through shirt.

Want to get tanned just like Kriti? This multi-hued bralette style cut-out mini dress is your BFF in Goa.

Do not forget to add a spin to your boring denim wardrobe, just like Kriti, and slay every look.

Taylor Swift emotional over 'Toy Story 5' song, praises Randy Newman

Asianet News Central — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 14:00:58 +0530

Singer-songwriter Taylor Swift, who penned 'I Knew It, I Knew You' for Pixar's upcoming animated film 'Toy Story 5', said she felt honoured to contribute to the beloved franchise. People cited her interview to 'Good Morning America'.on Wednesday, in which the pop icon noted that she is the only songwriter to create music for a 'Toy Story' movie besides composer Randy Newman, who famously wrote its iconic theme "You've Got a Friend in Me" for the original 1995 'Toy Story'. Swift turned emotional during the interview, People reported. Her song was officially released on June 5.

A preview shared by 'Good Morning America' features Swift and Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, Conan O'Brien among the cast of the highly anticipated film, which is set to release in theatres on June 19. "I felt wonderful knowing that I had Randy's blessing to write for this film given that I'm the first songwriter to get to partake in the Toy Story world outside of Randy," Swift said, according to People report. Reflecting on her experience watching the film, she added, "I was absolutely dazzled by it. It is my favorite Toy Story movie."

Premiere Performance

Swift attended the film's Los Angeles premiere on June 9, where she surprised audiences by performing 'I Knew It, I Knew You' after the credits rolled. She also joined Newman, 82, for a performance of the franchise's iconic song, 'You've Got a Friend in Me'.

Song's Inspiration and Creation

The Grammy-winning artist had first announced her involvement with the project on June 1, revealing that she wrote the song after watching an early screening of the film. "I wrote this song as soon as I got home from the screening," Swift shared on Instagram.

The track is inspired in part by Jessie, the fan-favourite cowgirl character voiced by Joan Cusack. "Writing this song felt like a musical departure and coming home at the same time," Swift wrote while announcing the song's release on June 5. "Creating something for Jessie was a new challenge and also felt like second nature all at once. And being a Toy Story kid from the age of 5 till now... is an adventure I plan to be on, to infinity and beyond," she added.

A VFX supervisor associated with the film recently revealed during a SXSW London event that Swift completed the song in February and that even members of the film's crew were unaware of the collaboration until shortly before the announcement, according to People.

About 'Toy Story 5'

'Toy Story 5' brings back franchise veterans Tom Hanks as Woody, Tim Allen as Buzz Lightyear and Joan Cusack as Jessie, alongside several returning cast members. Tony Hale reprises his role as Forky, while Conan O'Brien joins the voice cast as a toilet-training toy named Smarty Pants, according to People.

The film centres on a new conflict between the toys and a high-tech frog-shaped smart tablet voiced by Greta Lee, which becomes the latest addition to Bonnie's collection. 'Toy Story 5' is scheduled to hit theatres on June 19. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Katy Perry to sing unperformed song at FIFA World Cup 2026 opening

Asianet News Central — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 14:00:56 +0530

Singer Katy Perry has teased a special surprise for football fans ahead of her performance at the FIFA World Cup 2026 opening ceremony in Los Angeles, revealing that she plans to sing a song she has never performed live before. According to PEOPLE magazine, Perry, who is among the headline performers for the United States opening ceremony on June 12, shared the update while attending the Tribeca Festival premiere of her concert film 'Katy Perry: The Lifetimes Tour,' 'Live from Paris' earlier this week.

Without revealing the title of the track, the pop star hinted that the song holds a special connection to the occasion. Teasing the mystery performance, Perry said the track is "very fitting" for the ceremony and noted that it comes from one of her earlier records. "It's very fitting for the ceremonial song that I get to sing," the star told PEOPLE of the specific tune as she attended the Tribeca Festival premiere of her latest concert film, Katy Perry: The Lifetimes Tour -- Live from Paris, on Monday, June 8. "And it's not new," she further teased. "It's off of one of my records, and I'm very excited to perform it."

Star-Studded Lineup for LA Ceremony

Perry is set to perform during the United States opening ceremony in Los Angeles on Friday, June 12. She will share the stage with a star-studded lineup that includes Anitta, Future, LISA, Rema and Tyla. View this post on Instagram A post shared by KATY PERRY (@katyperry)

World Cup Kicks Off in North America

The performance comes as the FIFA World Cup 2026 gets underway across North America. The tournament officially began on June 11 with the opening match between Mexico and South Africa in Mexico City. The first opening ceremony in Mexico City featured performances by Shakira and Burna Boy, who delivered the first live performance of "Dai Dai," the official song of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Other artists who took the stage included Alejandro Fernandez, Belinda, Danny Ocean, J Balvin, Lila Downs, Los Angeles Azules and Mana.

Toronto to Host Second Opening Ceremony

A second opening ceremony is scheduled to take place in Toronto, Canada, featuring performances from Alanis Morissette, Alessia Cara, Elyanna, Jessie Reyez, Michael Buble, Nora Fatehi, Sanjoy, Vegedream and William Prince.

Largest FIFA World Cup to Date

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the largest edition of the tournament to date, featuring 48 teams competing across the United States, Canada and Mexico. The competition will conclude with the final on July 19. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

'Was Destroyed At That Time': When Shahid Kapoor Opened Up On Leaked MMS With Kareena Kapoor

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 13:10:51 +0530

Shahid Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor were one of the most loved and celebrated star couples in the film industry. They were allegedly involved in a romantic relationship and were quite open about it back in the day. Sharing their immense love for each other during interviews to altering their habits, they were speaking the language of love, oh-so-proudly!

Yes, you read that right. During the old days, a video MMS of them kissing and making out with each other was leaked. It was very traumatising for both of them to go through such an invasion of privacy. In the video, one could see them kissing each other, but as a 24-year-old, it took a toll on Shahid Kapoor.

When Shahid Opened Up About The MMS Leak

He once opened up to Midday about the same. He said, “Felt like my privacy had been invaded.” He further added, “So I was a mess wondering ‘what’s happened, what’s going on?’ Of course it affects you a lot and at that age especially. You don’t even know your own feelings and you’re figuring out how to be with a girl and you’re dating. You’re both actors, in different places and then this happens.”

On The Personal Front

Shahid is happily married to Mira Rajput. They got married in an intimate yet beautiful ceremony amid the presence of loved ones in 2015. They will celebrate their 11 years anniversary soon. The couple also has beautiful children.

On The Work Front

The actor was last seen in O Romeo with Triptii Dimri. The film failed to impress the critics and fans. He will be next seen in Cocktail 2 with Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Mandanna.

Billy Ray Cyrus opens up on near-death sepsis battle, vocal paralysis

Asianet News Central — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 13:00:54 +0530

Singer, songwriter and actor Billy Ray Cyrus has opened up about a life-threatening health battle in 2024, revealing that he "almost died" after suffering from sepsis and later experienced vocal paralysis during his recovery, according to Page Six.

In an interview with People magazine, the 64-year-old singer reflected on the medical crisis that left him fighting for his life and searching for hope. "I got really sick and almost died," Billy Ray said.

Billy Ray Cyrus on 'Miracle' Recovery

Recalling the severity of his condition, the singer shared that he was repeatedly sent home from the hospital while struggling with a mysterious and dangerous infection. "As I was trying to stay alive at times, they sent me home from the hospital, and I'd be there with Tommy Jack," he said, referring to his rescue dog. "But my body was blowing up [with] a toxicity of some type."

"If it had erupted, I would have died," he claimed. The 'Old Town Road' singer said he turned to prayer during the difficult period, frequently visiting what he called his "prayer rock" and asking for divine intervention.

"I had a prayer answered," Billy Ray said. He recalled repeatedly praying, "Please. I need a miracle. I need a miracle." According to the singer, doctors had planned one final surgery before an unexpected turnaround. "Lo and behold, they were going to do one last surgery. I got to the hospital [and] they said, 'Mr. Cyrus, it's gone. It's healed.' I had a miracle," he said.

Finding Strength in Family and Music

Billy Ray revealed that the illness also resulted in vocal paralysis, leaving him unable to sing or speak. "I started believing once I had the first miracle," he said. "I said, 'Cyrus, you can't talk or sing right now, but believe you can.'"

The singer credited his daughter, Noah Cyrus, for helping him through the recovery process. He said her 2025 song 'Don't Put It All On Me,' written by his son Braison Cyrus, became a source of strength during his darkest days. "I just loved it so much," Billy Ray said. "And I do credit that particular song [for] saving me," according to Page Six. He added that he became "addicted" to the song and listened to it throughout the day because it brought him "a little bit of peace."

Inspiration from Grandson

Billy Ray also shared a touching moment involving Braison's five-year-old son, Bear, whom he credits with inspiring him to keep going. "In this very broken moment of my life, my little grandson Bear looked at me and said, 'Try again,'" Billy Ray recalled. "Up until that moment, he had never spoken to me at all. I wasn't even sure if he knew my name."

The singer said the unexpected words carried deep meaning, according to Page Six. "I thought, 'He's telling you something.' Is it about love? Music? Somehow, I got to try again at both. So I'm learning to try again," he said.

New Music and Personal Life

Billy Ray is preparing for the release of his upcoming album, The Hill, which is scheduled to arrive on June 16. The singer shares daughters Miley Cyrus and Noah, along with son Braison, with his former wife Tish Cyrus. The couple were married from 1993 until their divorce in 2022, according to Page Six. Following their split, Billy Ray married Firerose in 2023 before the marriage ended in 2024. He is currently in a relationship with actress Elizabeth Hurley. Meanwhile, Tish Cyrus married Dominic Purcell in August 2023. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Anupam Kher’s Unexpected Football Fantasy Ahead Of FIFA World Cup 2026 Goes Viral - Check PHOTOS

Nancy Tiwari — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 12:52:56 +0530

Anupam Kher surprised fans by turning a simple green screen advertisement shoot into a creative football fantasy. The actor shared imaginative visuals of himself playing for India, showcasing the power of technology and creativity.

Veteran actor Anupam Kher surprised fans with a creative take on a recent advertisement shoot, transforming a simple green screen setup into an imaginary football world. Dressed in football gear, the actor used his imagination to picture himself representing India on a grand football stage.

Kher revealed that the actual shoot was a straightforward one, where he only had to perform in front of a green screen while technology would create the final visuals later. However, the actor decided to take the idea further by creating his own football fantasy using pictures from the shoot.

In his imagined world, Kher found himself wearing an India jersey, stepping onto a football field, surrounded by teammates, opponents and cheering fans. He described the transformation as an example of how creativity can turn a simple moment into something extraordinary.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Anupam Kher (@anupampkher)

Sharing glimpses from the concept, Kher called it a “Made in India” fantasy driven by imagination and enthusiasm. He highlighted how creativity does not depend on expensive locations, huge budgets or realistic setups, and can create experiences beyond the boundaries of reality.

The actor’s post showcased his playful side and his ability to blend technology with storytelling. His football-themed imagination received attention from fans, with many appreciating the unique way he celebrated creativity and the spirit of the game.

Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata X Review: Fans Hail Kangana Ranaut, Say 'Not All Heroes Wear Capes'

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 12:25:43 +0530

Kangana Ranaut could not catch a breath for the last few weeks as she was promoting her film Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata in full swing. From donning classic sarees to impressing her fandom to talking openly about Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata's sensitive storyline - she did it all like a pro. She stirred up some controversies with her bold remarks and served some fashion goals at the same time. Well, she is Bollywood's queen, and there's no denying that.

Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata Releases Today

Today marks quite a historical day for her as her film Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata has finally hit the theatres, and fans are hailing every bit of her performance. Some are calling the cast, “not all heroes wear capes.” While some are lauding Kangana's impeccable acting skills, some feel the movie missed a few marks. Let's take a look at a few appreciative tweets posted by her fans on the social media platform X and more.

Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata X Review

Now watching #BharatBhhagyaViddhaata pic.twitter.com/mgphXVK3uY

— Koushik Roy (@kinsiskay) June 12, 2026

My review of #bharatbhhagyaviddhaata !!!! Amazing movie !!! #kanganaranaut pic.twitter.com/cHGm3kDyTb

— VAIBHAV SALONIA (@BhaktWine) June 12, 2026

Now Watching #BharatBhhagyaViddhaata Film Bohot Achi Bani Hai, Seeing #KanganaRanaut Speaking Marathi With Her Soft Sweet Voice Melted My Heart Interval Block Is OSM Fear + Thrill + Anxiety #BharatBhhagyaViddhaataReview pic.twitter.com/bKP0bdIOrJ

— Contain Creator @CineePhillee (@ContainCreator) June 12, 2026

Rating: ⭐️⭐️½#BharatBhhagyaViddhaata features #KanganaRanaut and the rest of the cast deliver SOLID PERFORMANCES but the film falters in AVERAGE execution, with the most important thrill factor being only decent. An average affair.The film starts off introducing the characters… pic.twitter.com/2pi3GW13uG

— Het Tanna (@HetTannaHere) June 12, 2026

— Contain Creator @CineePhillee (@ContainCreator) June 12, 2026

#BharatBhhagyaViddhaataReview . Well done director #ManojTapadia .https://t.co/dlKT2mqIkl

— Mayur Lookhar (@mayurlookhar) June 12, 2026

About The Movie

Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata is based on real-life events that took place during the horrendous 26/11 Mumbai terror attack in 2008. Unlike other films revolving around this subject, this particular film captures the heroic actions inside the wards of Cama Hospitals. Highlighting how hospital workers worked together with all their might to protect and keep nearly 400 patients alive when terrorists attacked the campus. Kangana's character is heavily inspired by real-life nurse Anjali Kulthe.

Kangana Ranaut Reacts To Ranveer Singh Controversy After Reporter’s Question Goes Viral; Read On

Nancy Tiwari — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 12:17:48 +0530

Kangana Ranaut reacted to questions about Ranveer Singh facing criticism, initially avoiding the topic before sharing her views. Her comments have sparked discussions online after the actress gave her take on the controversy.

Mumbai: Kangana Ranaut, often called Bollywood's 'Queen', is famous for her straightforward and bold statements. She has now created a new buzz in Bollywood, this time taking aim at actor Ranveer Singh and the entire Hindi film industry's mindset.Kangana Ranaut is currently busy with promotions for her new film, 'Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata'. During one such promotional interview, a reporter asked her why actor Ranveer Singh is being targeted in the industry. Kangana's reply has now become a hot topic everywhere.In the interview, when asked why Ranveer Singh is suddenly being targeted, Kangana first tried to dodge it, saying, 'You should ask him, what do I know?'. But when the reporter pressed for her opinion, citing that she too has faced such targeting, she opened up about Bollywood's 'dark side'.'All I'm saying is, this film industry has a certain love for Pakistan (Inme thoda Pakistan prem hai),' Kangana stated seriously. 'Most films made till now have taught us to either sympathise with or admire Pakistan. That's all they have been doing for years,' she alleged.Kangana further supported her argument by mentioning Ranveer Singh's recent film 'Dhurandhar'. 'Yes, when a film shows the real face of Pakistan to the world, some people here get hurt. They feel pained that what they promoted for years is now worthless. This is the reason for the targeting,' she explained.Kangana's own film, 'Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata', is directed by Manoj Tapadia. The movie tells the heroic story of the nurses who saved about 400 patients at Cama Hospital during the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. The film, also starring Girija Oak, Smita Tambe, and Eesha Dey, released in theatres today, June 12, 2026.Ultimately, Kangana's 'Pakistan prem' statement has definitely sparked a new controversy in Bollywood. A huge war of words is now underway on social media between Ranveer Singh's supporters and Kangana's fans.