Asianet Newsable

KKK 15: Shagun Sharma eliminated after losing to Harsh and Jasmin

Asianet News Central — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 09:31:05 +0530

Actor Shagun Sharma's journey on the popular stunt-based reality show, 'Khatron Ke Khiladi 15', has come to an end. She faced defeat at the hands of her co-contestants Harsh Gujral and Jasmin Bhasin in an elimination task.

Shagun, best known for her acting stint in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2, was quite entertaining on KKK 15 due to her bubbly nature. However, she struggled when it came to performing the tasks and didn't have a particularly strong run in the stunts, having aborted quite a few of them during her journey.

Shagun Sharma Shares Her Experience

Sharing her experience of participating in KKK 15, Shagun, in a recent Instagram post, expressed her gratitude to the show's makers for the opportunity. She also thanked host Rohit Shetty for being a part of her journey.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shagun Sharma (@shagun__sharma)

"One with the Master of Stunts . This was such an Amazing, Scary, 1000% Real and deadly experience Now when i look back I do see a few things i could have done differently... Just like my poses and Hair over here. Anyway I am glad i Finally got the pic @itsrohitshetty it was a pleasure sir and you truly are an Amazing human, Thankyou so much #kkk KHATRON K KHILADI WHAT A SHOW," she posted.

Reunion with KKK 15 Contestants

Meanwhile, Shagun recently reunited with her 'KKK 15' contestants Orry, Farrhana Bhatt, and Ruhanika. The group had a fun time making reels, with the trio playfully teasing Shagun about her stint on the show and her tendency to abort several stunts.

Check out the videos here View this post on Instagram A post shared by Orhan Awatramani (@orry)

A Second Chance on the Show

Shagun was initially eliminated in the very first week of KKK 15. However, since it was the opening week, the makers did not go ahead with the elimination as they gave her another chance to continue her journey on the show. (ANI)

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

Rashmika Mandanna to resume work soon after recovering from hip injury

Asianet News Central — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 09:30:25 +0530

Actor Rashmika Mandanna is set to return to work soon after taking a break following a hip injury she suffered while shooting for her upcoming film 'Mysaa.' Rashmika shared a series of pictures and a video showing how she spent her time while recovering. From performing pooja and playing with her dog to solving picture puzzles and spending time in her garden, the actor gave fans a look at her days away from work.

Sharing the post, Rashmika said she will soon resume her professional commitments but will miss the time she got to spend at home. "I am getting back to work soon and I am definitely going to miss all of this!." she wrote. Take a look View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rashmika Mandanna (@rashmika_mandanna)

Details on the Injury

Rashmika had earlier opened up about her injury on August 3. She revealed that she had been away from work after suffering her third injury back-to-back and said she was focusing on her recovery. The actor also explained that one of the tendons in her right hip had detached and needed time to heal. She suffered the injury while shooting a dance sequence for 'Mysaa,' which she described as one of the most physically demanding films she has worked on.

"Hie guyssss! Injuries suck.. and I was really hoping that no one will get to know.. but well. Sorry I've been MIA but hieeee! I'm hereeee! It happened a while ago ya and this is my 3rd injury back to back.. I should definitely learn to treat my body like a human body and not some machine.." she had written.

Upcoming Projects

Rashmika has several projects lined up, including Mysaa.' It is an emotional action thriller set against the backdrop of the Gond tribes. The actor plays a Gond woman in the film, marking a different role from some of her earlier performances.

She will also star alongside Vijay Deverakonda in 'Ranabaali,' directed by Rahul Sankrityan. The Telugu period drama is set during the British Raj and is based on a fictional story inspired by lesser-known chapters of Indian history. 'Ranabaali' will release worldwide on October 16. (ANI)

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

Billie Eilish officiates as brother Finneas weds Claudia Sulewski

Asianet News Central — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 09:01:32 +0530

Music producer Finneas O'Connell, the brother of singer Billie Eilish, has tied the knot with his longtime girlfriend, Claudia Sulewski, who is an actress and YouTuber. The couple exchanged vows on August 30 in Montecito, California, Billboard reported, citing information from TMZ. The wedding ceremony was officiated by Finneas' superstar sister and longtime musical collaborator, Billie Eilish. Their parents, Maggie Baird and Patrick O'Connell, were also present. Among the famous guests were Justin and Hailey Bieber, Rachel Sennott, Emma Chamberlain, Rebecca Black, Jason Sudeikis, Kristen Bell, Dax Shepard, Devon Lee Carlson, Stassie Karanikolaou and Jesse Jo Stark.

The Engagement Story

Finneas and Claudia Sulewski announced their engagement in September 2025 after seven years together, sharing the news in an Instagram post captioned, "forever and ever 9.22." As per PEOPLE, while appearing on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon days after the proposal, Finneas opened up about what he learned from the moment and the stress he felt in keeping it a secret from Sulewski ahead of the big day. "I mean, I'm very relieved that it happened," he said. "I feel like it really taught me that I'm not cut out to rob banks or steal cars or something because I was keeping a joyous, happy secret for several weeks, and it ate me alive." (ANI)

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

Cuba's Jhoanna Uranga crowned Miss Teen International 2026 in Jaipur

Asianet News Central — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 09:00:53 +0530

Cuba's Jhoanna Uranga has been crowned Miss Teen International 2026 at the grand finale held in Jaipur, taking over the title from Spain's Lorena Ruiz. Uranga emerged as the winner after competing against contestants from more than 30 countries. The pageant featured several rounds of judging, with the finalists getting a chance to present themselves before the judges and the audience.

Winner's Reaction

Speaking to the media after her win, Uranga said that she had been preparing for the pageant for more than three years. She said the effort she put into her preparation finally paid off. "I was preparing for this for over 3 years, and honestly, all the hard work, the preparations, all the classes I have taken have truly paid off because this is one of my biggest dreams and it just came true," she said.

The Runners-Up

Namibia's Chantel Boeren was named the first runner-up, while Paraguay's Giuliana Ocariz finished as the second runner-up. Andrea Almestica of the USA was named the third runner-up and Darelys Nico of the US Virgin Islands became the fourth runner-up.

The competition saw contestants from countries including Canada, Colombia, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Fiji, France, Germany, India, Japan, Mexico, Namibia, the Netherlands, Paraguay, Peru, the Philippines, Puerto Rico, Romania, Spain, Sri Lanka, the United States, Venezuela, Vietnam and Zimbabwe, among others.

Pageant Owner on the Results

Speaking on the result, Nikhil Anand, owner of Miss Teen International, congratulated Uranga and said the final choice was not easy. "I'm so happy that the girls brought such an exceptional performance to the world, and it was a difficult choice to make. Congratulations to Cuba, which got its first Miss International crown, and we're looking forward to working with her (Jhoanna Uranga of Cuba)," Anand said.

Anand also praised Uranga's performance during the finale and spoke about India's result. He said the Indian contestant came close to winning the title but missed the chance by a little margin. "She's a great candidate, and she performed exceptionally well today... I always say it's a competition. Sometimes things might go well; sometimes things might not go well. And India missed the chance by a little margin," he added.

The Judging Panel

The grand finale was judged by Miss Universe India 2026 Kezia Liz Mejo, Miss Teen International president Nikhil Anand and Miss India International 2026 Vaishnavi Ganesh. (ANI)

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

Toxic Box Office Day 5: Yash’s Film Crosses Rs 285 Cr Worldwide Despite Collection Drop

Nancy Tiwari — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 08:45:36 +0530

Yash’s much-awaited film Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups opened to a record-breaking response at the box office, but its collection trend has taken a different turn over the following days. While the film has crossed Rs 200 crore net in India and Rs 285 crore worldwide, its daily earnings have continued to decline since its massive opening day.

How Much Did Toxic Earn on Day 5?

According to Sacnilk, Toxic collected Rs 23 crore net in India on its fifth day, Sunday. This was lower than its Day 4 collection of Rs 25.15 crore. With this, the film’s total India net collection has reached Rs 214.10 crore, while its India gross collection stands at Rs 255.95 crore.

On Sunday, the film recorded an overall theatre occupancy of 29.97 percent and was screened across 16,220 shows nationwide.

Hindi Version Leads the Day 5 Collection

The Hindi version remained the biggest contributor to the film’s Day 5 earnings, collecting Rs 14.50 crore net with 24 percent occupancy. The Kannada version earned Rs 6.40 crore, followed by Telugu at Rs 1.40 crore. The Tamil version collected Rs 60 lakh, while the Malayalam version contributed Rs 10 lakh.

Collections Continue to Fall After Record Opening

Toxic began its box-office journey with a massive Rs 101.10 crore net opening. However, collections dropped sharply to Rs 37.65 crore on Day 2. The film then earned Rs 27.20 crore on Friday, Rs 25.15 crore on Saturday and Rs 23 crore on Sunday.

Overseas, the film earned Rs 2 crore gross on Day 5, taking its total overseas collection to Rs 29.25 crore. Combined with India’s Rs 255.95 crore gross, Toxic has now earned Rs 285.20 crore worldwide.

Directed by Geetu Mohandas, the film also stars Kiara Advani, Nayanthara, Tara Sutaria, Rukmini Vasanth, Huma Qureshi and Akshay Oberoi in key roles.

High drama in Dharwad as Hindu outfits protest against Prakash Raj

Asianet News Central — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 01:00:53 +0530

Protest Against Prakash Raj in Dharwad

High drama prevailed in front of the Karnataka Vidyavardhaka Sangha venue in Dharwad as Hindu organisations and some BJP workers attempted to gherao actor Prakash Raj on Sunday. The actor Prakash Raj was set to participate in the 'Manushyatvadege Samudaya Jatha' programme. The protestors alleged that the actor might deliver anti-Hindu statements during the 'Samudaya Jagatha Towards Humanity' programme.

Tensions intensified when a group of youths tried to surround the actor and force their way into the venue. Police stepped in to prevent the protesters from entering and detained several of them following brief confrontations. The protesters refused to board the police jeep, shouting, "We will not go for any reason."

Tensions escalated when two youths allegedly smeared ink on actor Prakash Raj's banner, which was put up in front of the Karnataka Vidyavardhaka Sangha by the ABVP students. The youths also expressed their protest by tearing the flex, prompting a strong reaction from the organisers of the programme. Opposing the incident, the organisers staged a road protest, sitting on the street and raising slogans against the RSS, including "RSS Go Back."

'Election Commission Chalo' Campaign

Meanwhile, actor-filmmaker Prakash Raj on Tuesday announced that civil society organisations in Karnataka will hold an "Election Commission Chalo" campaign in Bengaluru on September 1, opposing the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and raising concerns over alleged flaws in the exercise. He questioned the deletion of voters marked as absent or permanently shifted, arguing that they should be given a fair opportunity to establish their eligibility rather than being asked to re-enrol through Form 6.

This comes after the Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) on Monday published the Draft Electoral Roll following the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)-2026 exercise.

On the Work Front

On the work front, Prakash Raj will be next seen in the film Drishyam: The Conclusion. It stars Ajay Devgn in the lead role. 'Drishyam The Conclusion' is scheduled to release in cinemas on October 2, 2026. (ANI)

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

Revathi: Raising boys right is more important for women's safety

Asianet News Central — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 01:00:27 +0530

Actress Revathi attended the 6th Bharat Soka GSSI Women's Awareness Seminar, which was held at the Music Academy in Chennai on Sunday. The seminar began with a cultural programme, following which women ranging from senior citizens to young girls shared how various struggles in their lives had been transformed into achievements. The seminar was held under the theme "Women in the Century: Awareness and Action."

'Pay attention to how we raise boys'

While talking to the reporters, actress Revathi said that ensuring women's safety in society requires more than simply advising women on how to protect themselves. It is extremely important to raise boys in the right manner as well. "On one hand, women are advised to be mindful of their safety, including where they should and should not go. But what is much more important is how we raise boys. We need to pay attention to what boys see and learn as they grow up at home, in schools and in society. Only by teaching them to clearly understand what is right and what is wrong can we bring about major changes in society," said Revathi.

'Gen Z will achieve many things'

She said that women have greater opportunities in all fields, including cinema, and that their growth depends on how they make use of those opportunities and move forward through their talent and abilities. "I have a great deal of confidence that the present Gen Z generation will achieve and accomplish many things that our generation was unable to," she said.

Actress Revathi was last seen in the film Assi, which also starred Taapsee Pannu in the lead role. (ANI)

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

Singer Ankit Balyan's murder: Family seeks Rahul Gandhi's help

Asianet News Central — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 01:00:25 +0530

Family Seeks Rahul Gandhi's Intervention

The family of the late singer Ankit Balyan sought help from the Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in the murder investigation of the singer after the artist was fatally shot in Shamli on Wednesday. Speaking to ANI, Ankit Balyan's wife expressed her dissapointment with the lack of arrests in the ongoing investigation in the murder case of the singer. Citing Rahul Gandhi's prominence among the youth and his involvement in raising other public issues, Ankit Balyan's wife urged him to visit West Uttar Pradesh and help in ensuring justice for the family.

Ankit Balyan said, "The police are working hard, but there is no ground-level result. Five days have passed, and no arrests have been made so far. This makes us feel that no action is being taken. Sir, our hope is breaking with this police administration and this government as well. So now I want to appeal to Rahul Gandhi ji. Sir, you are a big leader of this country. You had raised the education issue as well; Dharmendra Pradhan ji had to resign. Please listen to our plea as well. A child from our home has left us, sir. Please raise this issue. Understand the helplessness of those parents who have lost their young son. Sisters lost their brother a day before Rakshabandhan. You also have a sister; you are also someone's brother. Understand our pain and raise this issue. Rahul Gandhi ji, now we have hope only from you. You do something in this case."

She continued, "The country listens to him, and among the youth, he has an identity. We have hope from you. The youth of this area is looking towards you, Rahul Gandhi ji. Come to West UP and work on this case. We need people like you. We have hope in you."

Ankit Balyan's elder sister also made an emotional appeal to Rahul Gandhi to intervene and ensure that her brother's killers are punished. "Rahul Gandhi ji, I am Ankit's elder sister. I request you that my brother's killers be punished. So far, the central government and the UP government have done nothing. My request to you is: I lost my brother two to three days before Rakhi. You do something; you come and see. This government is not able to do anything. You have done good for the poor by going to their homes. You do something; we request you. We have faith in you," said Ankit Baliyan's sister.

Details of the Murder and Investigation

Haryanvi singer and actor Ankit Baliyan was fatally shot in Shamli district as he stepped out of a gym, while a viral social media post allegedly linked to the Gogi gang claimed responsibility for the murder. The Shamli Police are currently investigating this viral social media post.

Police Provide Update on Probe

Speaking to ANI, ADG Meerut, Bhanu Bhaskar, confirmed that the incident occured on Wednesday evening and provided details about the sequence of events and the ongoing probe. He said, "The victim was a singer named Ankit Baliyan... He was a well-known singer with many videos on YouTube. He had been working out at a fitness gym; as he stepped out--around 6:55 PM--four unidentified individuals arrived in two vehicles and opened fire. He sustained gunshot injuries. Although police personnel were present and immediately rushed him to the Community Health Centre (CHC), the doctors were unable to save him."

The incident came to light after an emergency call was placed to Dial 112, prompting local police teams to rush to the crime scene. Authorities confirmed that the victim, a resident of Banti Khera, was ambushed by three to four men as soon as he stepped outside the fitness centre. (ANI)

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

Tamara Coorg: A benchmark in responsible hospitality and wilderness

Asianet News Central — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 22:01:37 +0530

It took me nearly 15 hours to reach Tamara Coorg Resort from Delhi, but do I regret it? Absolutely not. The reason is an experience that feels almost too good to be true. It is like a sanctuary that strikes a subtle balance between wilderness and refined luxury that sets a benchmark in responsible hospitality. And I think all this comes from a philosophy where people, the planet, and ethical tourism remain a top priority. Let me tell you all about this unique oasis where everyone ensures that every footprint left behind is a green one.

Btw, only 17 trees were cut to set up the whole property, which is spread across 184 acres. Let that sink in.

The Stay

I stayed at one of the superior luxury cottages with a breathtaking view of the lush greenery surrounding the resort. The room has these subtle pastel tones, reflecting the serenity of nature. They have an elevated platform for the bed, which is a smart move as it amplifies the openness of the space. However, I had to ask them to remove the mattress as it was too soft for my taste. But kudos to the staff who were prompt to resolve it. The cottage had its own private sundeck where I could just pause for a moment and enjoy nature the way I never had in my life.

The Walk

Then we had a special walk where our guide- Karthik passionately explained to us each and every plant, tree, and bird. He then took us to the 150-year-old restored Verandah where I brewed my own coffee. This 'Blossom to Brew experience' was the first time where I was pulping, grading, roasting, and grinding the estate's single-origin beans. Plus, there were some really interesting items like bath accessories and decor items, among other things, that anyone can buy, and yes, I did buy a bunch of stuff as they were organically sourced, unique, and too good to resist.

The Experiential Drive

I tried the 4x4 guided sunset drive that offers an off-road passage through bumpy trails, coffee estates, and spice plantations. The moment we reached the main spot, it took me some time to grasp the nature in its full glory. There was nothing but clouds. In fifteen minutes, the clouds cleared, and I could see a complete mountain range. This panoramic view of the untouched valley was surreal, where I enjoyed the cool mountain air and felt speechless.

A Masterclass in Kodava Gastronomy

The moment I arrived at the reception, I was greeted with a welcome drink called Bella Kapi. It's a rich and delicious cardamom-infused coffee where they add natural jaggery. If you like robust, traditional plant-based flavours, then you'll enjoy the spread here. For instance, the Kodava Mane Ootta menu. It's served authentically on a banana leaf, and it was an absolute revelation. The main courses also have these earthy, rustic profiles like the Kade Mange Curry, which is a traditional raw mango curry with a distinctive tangy flavour. Then comes the Baimbale curry, featuring tender bamboo shoots that they simmer in a spiced traditional gravy. I noticed that the curries they serve can be paired with Kodava staples like Kadambutt, which are quite soft, steamed rice dumplings. You can even try curries with Akki Otti, which is a hand-pressed rice flatbread cooked on a griddle. The whole experience is quite aromatic. And if you really want to take your food experience to another level, then try an immersive eco-conscious dining option called the Bamboo Bhojana. It serves up a fragrant Bamboo Biryani with an earthy bamboo shoot curry, finishing with the comforting taste of Obbatu drizzled in bamboo jaggery syrup.

The Wellness Experience

This was the first time for me to experience sound healing, and the effect was so good that for the next week, I was sleeping like a baby. Then came the Trataka session, which is a specialised meditative practice where the same person who did the sound healing session guided us to gently focus our gaze on a fixed point to detoxify our mind, body, and soul, while also revitalising our eyes and enhancing concentration. This technique helps in improving vision, having better sleep, and attaining sharpened mental clarity. My massage session was also too good, where the expert spent a lot of time using natural oils to let me get rid of muscle strain. I highly recommend everyone to try sound healing and Trataka, as these practices really help in bringing balance and a great sense of calmness.

A Word to the Wise

While the Tamara Coorg is undeniably a must-visit destination, the dense, thriving ecosystem means you are truly sharing the space with nature. Leeches are highly prevalent on the trails, where almost everyone in our party, myself included, encountered one during the stay. It is absolutely essential to pack anti-slip or rain-suited footwear to move around the wet terrain safely and comfortably. Last but not least, they have carts to help you travel from one point to another, but sometimes you need to wait for a bit to get one, so be ready to walk and enjoy this beautiful property.

Responsible Hospitality

I was amazed to see that they have their own bottling plant to ensure they offer pure drinking water to guests without increasing their carbon footprint. In fact, they do not waste anything, as they follow strict organic waste management. I prefer calling this whole process an eco-conscious journey by Tamara. I also enjoyed spending time at the re-creation centre where you can play all sorts of games. You can even visit their Goshala--home to their cows--and witness the power of renewable energy at their solar plant.

In The End

I spent more than a full day to travel and come back home, but I don't mind visiting this place again. The way Tamara Coorg has defined sustainable hospitality is something I have never experienced, and I highly recommend this place to everyone who is looking for a place to not only enjoy but embrace sustainability in a unique way. More than anything else, the warmth and care by the entire staff at Tamara Coorg won my heart, as they ensured I had the best of everything. It's a rare instance where I enjoyed my stay so much that I miss the place to date.

My rating: 4.5/5 (Disclaimer: The author is an expert in the fields of lifestyle, consumer tech and auto. Views shared here are personal.) (ANI)

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

Manisha Koirala urges nations to boost tourism in flood-hit Nepal

Asianet News Central — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 21:31:01 +0530

Manisha Koirala Urges Global Support

Actress Manisha Koirala attended the event 'In Solidarity with Nepal' in Nepal, which was organised by Sadhguru's Isha Foundation on Sunday. The Bollywood star extended her support and expressed her solidarity with the people of Nepal after the country was hit by a devastating flash flood on Wednesday. While speaking at the special solidarity event 'In Solidarity with Nepal', Manisha Koirala urged the international community and neighbouring nations to extend their support to Nepal by increasing tourism. "We are facing the brunt of global warming. What should be our next step? I request that we, as human beings, our great neighbours, China, India, Nepal, somehow join hands in this and do something collectively. We are so linked with each other. And to try and avoid something like this. I hope and pray. Without making sense of this disastrous moment, we become better people. We help others just like we'll help our own." She continued, "Other than this, I want to request all the international communities... I pray that your love and support continue. We, as a nation, need people to come to our country. We don't want to be known as 'Oh, this country is full of disasters'. We need you all to travel. Yes, there's a calamity in Tibet and Nepal border. But tourism is a breath."

Earlier, Manisha Koirala, who was born in Nepal and has often spoken about her connection with the country, also urged people to pray for those affected. She shared pictures showing the damage caused by the floods and wrote, "Pray for Nepal."

Isha Foundation's Initiative and Flood Impact

According to Isha Foundation's website, "In Solidarity with Nepal" is an effort to support the resilience and spirit of the people of Nepal, and express unity and solidarity with the community as they rebuild their lives.

The death toll from the devastating flash floods in Nepal has reached 794 as of 5:45 PM on Sunday, Nepal Police announced. According to the updated data, the highest number of fatalities has been recorded in Chitwan with 264 deaths, followed by Nawalparasi East with 197, Nawalparasi West with 120, Gorkha with 61, Nuwakot with 52, Dhading with 50, Tanahun with 37, and Rasuwa with 13. (ANI)

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

Sony unveils staggering 115-inch TV for a true cinema experience

Asianet News Central — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 21:30:32 +0530

Why 115 Inches?

'I'll start', I announced, as I sat down with two pivotal figures in the consumer tech space: Sunil Nayyar, Managing Director, Sony India, and Nezu Daisuke, Global Head of Home Product Business Division, Home Entertainment Business Unit, Sony Corporation, who had flown in straight from the Japan headquarters. We were gathered to discuss Sony's latest marvel- the staggering 115-inch True RGB TV. My first question for Sunil was straightforward: what was the need to come up with something as big as 115 inches? Knowing Sony's track record, they never seem to know when to stop innovating. "We just launched this beautiful piece of art", Sunil laughed, admitting he wasn't sure when they'd launch anything bigger. But his rationale for the 115-inch display was grounded in pure cinematic ambition. "It's closest to real cinema viewing. When you go to a cinema, it is a massive screen, but no house can make that happen. Even a large 6,000 to 10,000 square feet house cannot fit that kind of screen. What is the next best option? A projector. But how about a beautiful-looking TV which is as large, equipped with the best picture technology, and completely immersive? It's a real cinema experience."

The Power of True RGB and Immersion

I could instantly relate. I shared a recent experience from my trip to Hyderabad on July 29th, where I was invited by Dolby to the massive Allu Cinemas, Hyderabad. Watching Spiderman: Brand New Day on a 75-foot Dolby Cinema screen alongside 600 people absolutely blew my mind. Sitting right next to industry stalwarts like Allu Aravind, Allu Arjun and Allu Shirish, I watched it in sheer excitement and appreciated the visual quality and immersive audio. If technology can touch your senses like that in a theatre, imagine capturing that same feeling at home. Sony's philosophy of cinematic immersion isn't just restricted to massive displays; it translates directly to their home audio. I recently set up Sony Bravia Theatre Trio at my place. My mother was sceptical at first, but the moment the right content played, we all felt transported inside a movie hall. I think it's simply the easiest plug-and-play home theatre system in the industry right now.

Projectors vs. The 115-Inch Revolution

This brought us to the global perspective. I turned to Nezu Daisuke to understand the challenges and opportunities of pitching a 115-inch TV across different markets. Mr. Daisuke noted that while huge screens might physically struggle to fit into smaller homes in Tokyo or the UK, markets like the United States and China have long embraced 120-inch projectors. However, projectors come with inherent limitations- namely, the need for a dedicated, dark theatrical room. "Ten years ago, they were making dedicated theatrical rooms", Daisuke explained regarding the US market. "However, now we're shifting to open spaces where they cannot shut out the light." Sunil echoed this sentiment for India. Modern homeowners want the freedom to enjoy content without being restricted to a pitch-black room. A projector's picture quality deteriorates with ambient light, a problem the 115-inch True RGB TV entirely eliminates.

Seeing is Believing

In a market flooded with QLEDs, OLEDs, and various audio-visual jargon, convincing a cinephile to invest heavily in Sony's premium ecosystem requires a tactile approach. "Seeing is believing", Sunil emphasised. "At the shop front, we have my promoters. We ensure that the customer sees exactly what he will see at home: Netflix, Amazon, compared to all the other televisions. Sometimes it takes less than 5 minutes for users to buy our TV." During the demo, I witnessed this firsthand, and I was stunned by the True RGB. The blues were the bluest I'd ever seen, and the reds and greens were mind-blowing. But beyond the colours, it was the depth that truly set it apart, a depth that subconsciously allows you to drop your phone and completely lose yourself in the magic.

The Headline

Before wrapping up, I asked both executives for one final message for potential buyers. For Daisuke, the target is clear: "The potential user is a full projector user now. They love movies. However, the improvement point on the projector is already limited. Once we offer True RGB, it drastically improves their experience." Sunil delivered the perfect closing thought, one that immediately gave me the headline for this piece: "Unless you are very sure that you can deliver four- or five-times better picture quality in any environment, what is the need to change from a projector? This is the best news from Sony for movie-lovers who want to watch good cinema under any conditions, without any restrictions." I couldn't agree more.

(Disclaimer: The author is an expert in the fields of consumer technology, lifestyle and auto. Views shared here are personal.)

(ANI)

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

Vishal Chaturvedi slams premature flop verdict for 'Hanuman Ansh' film

Asianet News Central — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 21:00:29 +0530

'Don't declare a film a hit or flop in haste': Vishal Chaturvedi

'Hanuman Ansh', a film inspired by the life and legacy of Shri Neeb Karori Baba, has been performing well at the box office despite facing competition from multi-starrer movies like Awarapan 2 and Toxic. After the film's success, director Vishal Chaturvedi has weighed in on the early assessment of the film, where it was allegedly declared a flop.

While speaking to ANI, Vishal Chaturvedi expressed his displeasure at the early box office verdicts of the film, saying that a movie should not be prematurely labelled a hit or flop while it is still running in theatres. "As far as declaring to people that it is a flop film, I feel that there should be some standards in the industry. As long as the film is in a theatre and its run is not complete, then declaring that film a hit or flop is a haste. I feel that as long as the public is with you, your film will remain a hit, because so many people are loving it and talking about it. I used to feel that the film will be a hit and it will complete its run in two and a half months. In the second week, the collections were more than the number of theatres we had. We had 25 theatres, but we were getting almost the same collection that we were getting from 250 theatres in the first week," said Vishal Chaturvedi.

Challenges at the Box Office

The director also shared the challenge of running their movie in the theatres despite being allegedly housefull. It stemmed from the release of movies like Emraan Hashmi starrer 'Awarapan 2' and Yash's 'Toxic'. Vishal Chaturvedi said, "The theatre owners had two other big films. They were putting up their shows. Because they were getting pushed from there, and they were taking out our film. They didn't have any other way, but when all the shows were sold out, a crisis situation was created."

"At the same time, our team, all the people in our production team, all the people left their places, and we started covering each and every theatre. We even started our journey from Gujarat to Surat, Baroda, Ahmedabad; from there, Rajkot, then Morbi. After that, we reached Rajasthan, and we went to Jodhpur, Jaipur, Udaipur and other places," added Chaturvedi.

About 'Hanuman Ansh'

Written and directed by Vishal Chaturvedi, the film stars Shobhina W Satyaa, Vihaan S Hegde, Chandan Anand, Purnima Tiwari, Anil K Rastogi and Gulshan Pandey. Produced by Ragini S, Namrata G Singh, Anupriya A Nagar and Vishal Chaturvedi, the film had an all-India theatrical release by Cinepolis.

A journey of faith, humility and boundless love, 'Hanuman Ansh' is rooted in "Bharat's timeless Sant Parampara and brings to the big screen the story of a saint whose message continues to touch lives across generations: love all, serve all, feed all and remember Ram," as per the press release. The film's synopsis positions "Baba as a saint who remains untouched by power, politics, ownership and praise, while his simple message becomes the spiritual centre of the story," it added.

A Box Office Success Story

Despite being a low-budget movie, the film has exceeded the expectations of the cinemagoers. by soaring high at the box office. Film Trade Analyst Taran Adarsh has described the film as "the biggest success story of 2026." (ANI)

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

Avika Gor on Khatron Ke Khiladi 15: Easy to be a hero from outside

Asianet News Central — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 20:31:18 +0530

Days after her elimination, Actress Avika Gor shared her experience of Khatron Ke Khiladi Season 15, which, according to her held gain a new perspective on life and challenges. Avika penned a long note on her Instagram handle narrating the difference between the reel and reality as she watches the latest episodes of the show after her elimination.

Avika Gor's Post-Elimination Realizations

"There's something I've realised about myself while watching Khatron Ke Khiladi after my elimination. I catch myself thinking, "If I were there, I wouldn't have given up. I would have pushed harder. I would have done better. Basically, sitting comfortably on my sofa, suddenly I'm an expert Khatron contestant. And then I remind myself: I'm watching from the comfort of my own life. I know the outcome. I know what happens next. I'm not actually in that moment, with the pressure, the fear, the adrenaline, and a stunt staring me in the face. It's very easy to become the hero of a situation from the outside," wrote Avika Gor.

She added, "When something matters deeply to us, we replay it, imagine different choices, and create a version of the story that never happened. And sometimes, our imagination gives us a much better performance than reality ever got the chance to. Maybe that's why being eliminated so early has been difficult for me to completely let go of. Somewhere inside me, there's still that girl who believes, I had so much more to give."

A Different Lesson This Time

This was not the first time that the 'Balika Vadhu' actress has participated in the show. Her first stint was in the ninth season of the stunt-based reality series. "I was 21 when I first did the show, and it changed my perspective on who I was and who I wanted to become. I went in thinking I was there to face fears and perform stunts, but I came out understanding myself a little differently. Coming back this time meant so much because, perhaps, a part of me wanted to meet that younger version of myself again and maybe finish something that had always felt unfinished. But this time, Khatron is teaching me something very different."

The actress concluded writing, "The first time, Khatron changed my perspective on who I was and what I wanted to become. This time, it is teaching me how to live with what I cannot control. To stop rewriting the ending. To acknowledge that I may have had more to give without allowing that thought to take away from everything I did give. I'm still learning to make peace with that. And I'm also filled with so much gratitude for the love, the opportunities, the people and experiences that have brought me here, and for everything that is still to come. I hope, with time, this void becomes something I can heal from, rather than a place where I remain stuck. Maybe I don't need to erase it. Maybe I just need to carry it with gratitude, laugh at myself a little when my brain starts giving me imaginary second chances, and keep moving forward."

The Elimination Round

Actor Avika Gor got eliminated after facing Orry in the elimination round. Orry completed the challenge in almost 10 minutes, while the 'Balika Vadhu' star took over 13 minutes to perform the task.

The show also features numerous celebrities as contestants, including Rubina Dilaik, Rithvik Dhanjani, Farhan Bhatt, Karan Wahi and others. The show is hosted by the filmmaker Rohit Shetty. (ANI)

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

Korean Kanakaraju OTT: Varun Tej's hit horror-comedy is coming to your screens; To Release Here

Amrita Ghosh — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 17:32:10 +0530

Varun Tej's latest film, Korean Kanakaraju, is reportedly all set for its digital debut on Netflix from September 4. Fans are super excited for the OTT release after its successful run in cinemas

Mega Prince Varun Tej recently scored a big hit with his film 'Korean Kanakaraju'. Director Merlapaka Gandhi made this horror-comedy, which also features Ritika Nayak and Satya in important roles. After a great run in theatres, the movie is now gearing up for its digital premiere. The Netflix app catalogue suggests that 'Korean Kanakaraju' will start streaming from September 4, 2026.Reports say that Netflix has bought the OTT streaming rights for 'Korean Kanakaraju'. But, we still don't know which languages the film will be available in. Both Netflix and the movie's producers have to make an official announcement yet. We'll get more clarity on the other language versions only after they release a statement.Varun Tej finally got a hit with 'Korean Kanakaraju' after a string of flops. The movie, a mix of horror and comedy, got a solid response in theatres. The audience especially loved the performances of Varun Tej, Ritika Nayak, and Satya. Now that it's a theatrical success, people are eagerly waiting to catch it on OTT, creating a lot of buzz for its digital release.UV Creations and First Frame Entertainments jointly produced this film. Thaman S gave the music for the movie. Director Merlapaka Gandhi used his signature style to blend horror and comedy perfectly. People who watched it in cinemas are now excited to see it again on OTT. It will be interesting to see how the film does once it's available for streaming.All in all, the success of 'Korean Kanakaraju' has really cheered up Varun Tej's fans, especially after his recent run of unsuccessful films. The movie has finished its time in theatres and is now all set to land on Netflix.

Rasha Thadani to get solo song in 'Laikey Laika' after 'Uyi Amma'

Asianet News Central — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 17:30:30 +0530

Abhay Verma and Rasha Thadani are set to share the screen for the movie 'Laikey Laika.' To elevate the film to match the expectations of the cinemagoers, the makers are planning to add a solo song featuring Rasha Thadani after her impressive performance in 'Uyi Amma.'

According to the press note shared by the makers of the film, the movie's shoot has been completed. "The latest buzz is that the makers want to, as part of their promotional strategy, add a solo song for Rasha because of Uyi Amma's success," as quoted in a press note. "Whoever has watched the film during post-production has said that they loved Abhay and Rasha's performances. However, in a day and age where music also plays an important role in Bollywood cinema and considering Rasha has had a hit unlike any other in her generation, the makers want to use that to their stride, and hence one more song is being planned to be shot separately, which can work to increase the reach of Bollywood cinemagoers," read the press note shared by the makers.

The genre of the song and details are being kept under wraps while the makers plan to shoot for it soon and prep the film for release. The film is directed by Saurabh Gupta. The release date of the movie has not been announced by the makers yet.

Abhay Verma's Career Highlights

Meanwhile, Abhay Verma has been basking in the success of his latest OTT series 'Safed Sagar.' It is currently streaming on Netflix. Abhay Verma has been basking in positive reviews for Safed Sagar, and also has a tremendous lineup with King and Jacob Cardoso coming up, making him one of the most promising actors of the new generation.

Operation Safed Sagar follows the journey of the Indian Air Force's youngest officers during the Kargil War. The series centres on the Golden Arrows Squadron, exploring the immense courage, pressure, and sacrifice involved in carrying out missions at extreme altitudes. Beyond the aerial missions, however, the story also delves into the human experiences behind the operation.

Directed by Oni Sen, created by Abhijeet Singh Parmar and Kushal Srivastava, and produced by Sanjay Routray and Sarita Patil from Matchbox Shots LLP and Mehboob Pal Singh Brar from Feel Good Films, the series also features Siddharth, Jimmy Shergill, Prajakta Koli, Adil Hussain, Taaruk Raina, Arnav Bhasin, and Amrita Bagchi.

Rasha Thadani's Filmography

As for Rasha Thadani, the actress debuted in Bollywood with the film 'Azaad' in 2025. Set in pre-independence India, 'Azaad' features Ajay Devgn as a skilled horse rider who has a deep connection with his horse. In a dramatic turn of events, Ajay faces off against the harsh English armies and, during the chaos, his beloved horse goes missing. The responsibility of finding the lost horse falls on Aaman Devgn's character. Aaman is Ajay Devgn's nephew.

Directed by Abhishek Kapoor, the film received widespread praise for its powerful performances and engaging storyline. Ajay Devgn's strategic backing with a cameo helped propel 'Azaad' to the top. It earned Rs 1.5 crore net box office collection on day one. After this, the actress was seen in the Telugu film 'Srinivasa Mangapuram' which was directed by Ajay Bhupathi. It was released this year. (ANI)

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

Shailene Woodley recalls 'fun phone call' cutting her from Spider-Man

Asianet News Central — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 16:00:31 +0530

Shailene Woodley has recalled the unexpected phone call in which she learned that her scenes as Mary Jane Watson had been cut from 2014's 'The Amazing Spider-Man 2', despite having already filmed the role alongside Andrew Garfield. Woodley, a two-time Golden Globe nominee revealed that she had shot three scenes with Garfield's Peter Parker before being told, roughly a year later, that she would no longer appear in the film.

"Oh, we shot it. That was a fun phone call," Woodley said in a recent interview, as per Deadline. The actor recalled that being cast as Mary Jane had been a major career moment for her, particularly because Spider-Man was her favourite superhero and Mary Jane her favourite character growing up. "I was cast as Mary Jane for Spider-Man, which was my dream. Oh my god, Spider-Man's my favorite superhero, Mary Jane was my favorite character growing up. So, when I got it, I was like, 'This is so exciting!'" she said, as per Deadline.

Woodley said she and Garfield filmed three scenes together before she received the news that her character would not be part of the finished movie. "And then, we filmed like three scenes together, me and Andrew Garfield. And then, like a year later, they were like, 'So, you're not in the movie anymore.' And I was like, 'What? What do you mean?'" she recalled.

The Reason for the Cut

According to Woodley, she was told the decision was linked to the number of new characters introduced in the film and the storyline involving Garfield's Peter Parker and Emma Stone's character, Gwen Stacy. "And they're like, 'We've introduced a lot of new characters in this last one, and we're going to wait for whatever happens between [Emma Stone] and Andrew [Garfield],'" Woodley said, as per Deadline. "They were like, 'Let's wait for her to die, and then we'll introduce Mary Jane.' Which made sense, but then they didn't make that film. So, there was no reintroduction," she added.

Woodley also acknowledged that she does not know whether that explanation fully reflected the circumstances behind her scenes being cut. "That's what I was told, but again, who knows what the truth is? I could have been terrible, and they were like, 'We can't do this,'" she said, as per Deadline.

Andrew Garfield's Spider-Man Future

Garfield's version of Spider-Man later appeared alongside Tom Holland and Tobey Maguire in 2021's 'Spider-Man: No Way Home'. However, Garfield has said "unequivocally fucking no" to reprising the role in Avengers: Doomsday, which is set to premiere in theatres on December 18.

At the same time, Garfield has not completely ruled out returning to his version of Spider-Man in another project. Speaking last year, he said he still loved playing the character but would want any potential return to take an unconventional direction. "I really love playing Spider-Man. I would love to play the character again in some capacity, but I think it would have to be very weird," Garfield said, adding, "I think I would want to do something very strange." (ANI)

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

'Proud Father' Daboo Malik defends son Amaal over 'Awarapan 2' row

Asianet News Central — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 15:30:23 +0530

Daboo Malik's 'Proud Father' Message

Daboo Malik has shared an emotional message for his son, music composer Amaal Mallik, following the release and subsequent drama surrounding 'Awarapan 2.' Celebrating the film's box-office and musical success, Daboo described himself as a "Proud Father" while reflecting on the challenges his son faced during the project. Taking to Instagram, Daboo addressed the negativity surrounding the film's music and Amaal's work. He wrote, "Messages were sent , Calls were made , Negativity was spread , Judgements were passed, ... But sometimes the magic happens against all odds ..."

Daboo went on to congratulate the team behind 'Awarapan 2', including Vishesh Bhatt, Nitin Kakkar, Vishesh Films and Emraan Hashmi. He also highlighted the personal significance of the project for Amaal, who composed the soulful track "Yeh Awarapan", sung by Arijit Singh. Amaal had earlier through a LIVE Instagram session dedicated the song and the project to his father's musical journey, making the film particularly meaningful for the family. Referencing that dedication in his post, Daboo wrote, "A Proud Father ... A Son who dedicated YEH AWARAPAN to his fathers Journey ..." https://www.instagram.com/p/Dcn8xSNuPbi/

Backlash and 'Manufactured Hate'

The celebratory message comes after Amaal publicly pushed back against criticism surrounding the song's release. After the track dropped, it faced heavy online scrutiny and mixed feedback from fans comparing it to the iconic music of the 2007 original film. He had alleged that a coordinated "paid PR campaign" was created within the music industry to undermine his work. In his recent Instagram Stories, he reshared a post about the ongoing controversy and wrote, "Criticism is diff from manufactured hate." Amid the industry backlash, the composer also announced a temporary break from film music, saying he needed time to heal his mind, body and soul.

Amaal Mallik's Personal Struggles

Amaal Mallik, the son of composer Daboo Malik and nephew of music director Anu Malik made his Bollywood debut in 2014 with 'Jai Ho', composing three songs for the Salman Khan starrer. Earlier in March 2025, Amaal released an emotional social media statement announcing that he was officially cutting personal ties with his parents and keeping interactions strictly professional. He stated that his parents' actions and expectations had created an emotional distance between him and his brother, Armaan. Dealing with clinical depression, Amaal expressed resentment over constant family comparisons and feeling unappreciated despite his years of grueling hard work. He later deleted the post and reunited with his family during the wedding celebrations of his brother Armaan Malik and Aashna Shroff.

Bigg Boss 19 Appearance

Amaal Mallik has also appeared in Bigg Boss 19. The singer-composer finished as the fourth runner-up in the Top 5 of Salman Khan-led Bigg Boss 19, which concluded in December 2025.

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

Ravi Kishan Meme Reaches Cricket as Faf du Plessis Recreates Viral Gucci Dance Moves

Vaishnav Akash — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 15:21:18 +0530

The Ravi Kishan meme trend has now reached cricket. After football clubs Juventus, Borussia Dortmund, and Liverpool FC joined the craze, Rotterdam Dockers captain Faf du Plessis has followed suit. A video of the former South African skipper recreating the actor-turned-politician's famous moves has gone viral.

The footage, shared on Rotterdam Dockers' official Instagram page during the European T20 Premier League, shows du Plessis learning the signature steps to Aroob Khan's track "Gucci." He was joined by teammates Jai Moondra and Vikramjit Singh as they grooved together.

The former South African captain danced to the song "Gucci" by Aroob Khan

The clip quickly gained traction on social media. One user joked, "When he said Pagal to bana dunga desh ko, He forgot to say dunia ko! Lord Ravi Kishan!!" Another wrote, "Ravi Kishan ab international pahuch chuka hai." A third added, "It's high time he gets his due royalty…. loyalty toh mil hi rhi hai."

The video, captioned "Okay, we had to join this one," has become a hit among cricket fans and meme enthusiasts alike. The trend continues to spread across sports and entertainment.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Rotterdam Dockers ⚓️ (@rotterdam.dockers)

Mamitha Baiju Box Office Success: Know Hits, Movie Fee; Check Here

Amrita Ghosh — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 15:14:53 +0530

Kerala's Mamitha Baiju has become the new lucky star of Tamil cinema. Every film she touches is turning into a box office blockbuster, easily crossing the Rs 100 crore mark. She worked with Vijay in ‘Jana Nayagan’

For ages, actresses from Kerala have ruled Tamil cinema. They bring both beauty and talent, so our directors never miss a chance to cast them. The biggest example is Nayanthara, who came from Kerala and is now the Lady Superstar of not just Tamil but all of South Indian cinema. Following in her footsteps, Mamitha Baiju is now South cinema's new lucky charm. Why? Because her recent films are smashing box office records, raking in over Rs 100 crore each. This makes her the go-to actress for guaranteed blockbusters.

Mamitha is currently juggling films in multiple languages and has become one of India's highest-paid actresses. Her two big films released during this Onam festival are getting a massive response at the box office. Her Tamil film 'Viswanath and Sons' with Suriya and the Malayalam film 'Bethlehem Family Unit' with Nivin Pauly both received a fantastic reception in theatres. Both films quickly joined the Rs 100 crore club and are now on their way to breaking even more records.

Suriya's 'Viswanath and Sons' has already crossed Rs 200 crore in worldwide collections. Similarly, Nivin Pauly's 'Bethlehem Family Unit' is also a huge box office success, with reports suggesting it has earned around Rs 150 crore globally. What's interesting is that Girish A.D. directed 'Bethlehem Family Unit'. He's the same director who made Mamitha a pan-India star with 'Premalu'. This is their third film together. Mamitha first became famous across India for her role as 'Reenu' in 'Premalu'. After that mega-hit, she has delivered a string of blockbusters like 'Dude', 'Jananayagan', 'Viswanath and Sons', and 'Bethlehem Family Unit'.With back-to-back hits, Mamitha's market value has shot up like a rocket. She reportedly earned Rs 8 lakh for 'Premalu'. After its success, she increased her fee to Rs 2 crore for 'Viswanath and Sons'. For Vijay's film 'Jananayagan', she was reportedly paid Rs 75 lakh. Now, industry sources say she charges anywhere between Rs 2 crore and Rs 3 crore for a single Tamil or Telugu film. In Tamil cinema, a 'lucky' actress always gets the top spot. It looks like Mamitha Baiju is here to stay and will be ruling the industry for a long time.

Jackie Shroff gives Anupam Kher a lift after 30 years in Mumbai

Asianet News Central — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 15:01:22 +0530

Actors Jackie Shroff and Anupam Kher turned a routine drive through Mumbai into a nostalgic reunion when Shroff recently drove his longtime friend and co-star to Kher's acting academy, Actor Prepares. Anupam Kher shared a video of the moment on Instagram on Sunday, recalling that it had been nearly 30 years since Shroff last gave him a lift. The candid ride offered fans a glimpse of the longstanding friendship between the two actors, who have worked together across several decades of Hindi cinema.

In the video, Shroff is seen at the wheel as the two catch up during their journey through Mumbai. Kher used the occasion to celebrate what he described as Shroff's effortless style and warmth. Sharing the video, he wrote, "Some people acquire swag. Some people work at it. And then there is #JackieShroff!! For whom swag is simply a way of life... nothing has really changed. The style, the warmth, the bhidu-ness- all completely natural." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anupam Kher (@anupampkher)

A Shared Film History

The moment also brought their shared film history into focus. Shroff and Kher have appeared together in films including Karma (1986), Ram Lakhan (1989), Tridev (1989), Parinda (1989), Saudagar (1991), Khel (1992), Ram Shastra (1995) and Border (1997). Their collaboration has continued into recent years. In 2026, the two reunited for 'Tanvi: The Great', directed by Kher, with Shroff playing Brigadier Joshi. Kher had earlier made his directorial debut with 'Om Jai Jagadish' (2002), which featured Shroff in a lead role alongside Anil Kapoor and Fardeen Khan.

A Friendship Beyond Films

Beyond their professional association, Kher's post highlighted the personal warmth he associates with Shroff. He recalled their long history and praised the actor's consistent affection and support for his family, including his mother. He also expressed appreciation for the hospitality at Shroff's home. "Jackie is one of those people whose company is a joy even if it is only for five or ten minutes. I value his kind words, his affection, and especially the love he has always shown towards my family and my mother. And of course, the love for the wonderful food Bhabhi cooks! Jackie my friend- You are the best, my friend. Lots and lots of love. JAI HO!" Anupam Kher wrote in the caption.

Anupam Kher's Upcoming Projects

Anupam Kher has several projects in the pipeline including Sooraj Barjatya's 'Yeh Prem Mol Liya' and the much-awaited 'Khosla Ka Ghosla' sequel. He also recently wrapped up shooting for his upcoming film 'Shri Rambhoomi'. (ANI)

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

Kiara Advani Stuns in White Chiffon Saree, 78-Carat Luxe Ruby Necklace

Amrita Ghosh — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 14:46:16 +0530

Kiara Advani proved once again that simplicity can make the strongest statement when styled right. The actor stepped out in a stunning Manish Malhotra creation that beautifully blended traditional Indian elegance with a modern fashion sensibility.

The highlight of the ensemble was a flowy white chiffon saree that created an effortlessly soft and ethereal silhouette. The lightweight fabric draped naturally around her body, while the pallu cascaded gracefully over her shoulders and arms.

Instead of appearing heavily structured, the drape had a fluid, almost cape-like effect, giving the traditional saree a refreshing contemporary update. The pristine white fabric also served as the perfect canvas for the spectacular jewellery that followed.

The Corset Blouse Added Contemporary Glamour

Giving the traditional saree look a bold modern edge was Kiara's corset-style blouse. Designed with a structured silhouette, the blouse featured a deep sweetheart neckline that added glamour without taking away from the elegance of the overall outfit.

The fitted design defined her silhouette before blending seamlessly into the soft chiffon drape of the saree.

It was this contrast between the structured blouse and the flowing fabric that made the look particularly striking. Kiara carried the ensemble with effortless confidence, allowing the outfit's details to stand out without making the styling feel overdone.

A 78-Carat Ruby Necklace Became the Showstopper

While the white saree was undeniably elegant, the true star of Kiara's look was her magnificent ruby and diamond necklace.

According to Manish Malhotra's post, the statement piece featured a composition of more than 78 carats of Mozambique and Burmese rubies. The rich crimson stones sat prominently around Kiara's collarbone and created a dramatic contrast against the crisp white chiffon saree.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Manish Malhotra (@manishmalhotra05)

The vivid rubies were surrounded by delicate diamond-set foliage crafted in 18K gold, giving the necklace a luxurious floral-inspired appearance.

Sharing the photos, Manish Malhotra described Kiara's look as a flowy white chiffon saree paired with a classic necklace featuring a cascade of crimson-toned rubies framed by diamond-set foliage.

Jacob Fatu RAW ‘F-Bomb’ Clip Fuels Buzz; No WWE Fine or Firing Confirmed

Vaishnav Akash — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 14:07:07 +0530

Jacob Fatu is at the center of a WWE debate after audience-shot footage from the August 28 RAW taping at the Rocket Center in Cleveland spread widely online. The clip appears to capture Fatu using foul language during a promo, prompting speculation about possible discipline.

Despite the surge of chatter, there has been no official word from WWE about fines or other sanctions. Viral posts claiming a company penalty have been debunked; no formal statement has been issued.

What The Viral RAW Clip Shows

Based on spoilers shared on social media from the August 28 taping, Fatu interrupted the women’s Intercontinental Championship match to deliver a heated promo. He directed remarks at Out of the Mud (OTM) members Royce Keys, Bronco Nima, and Lucien Price.

"I'm going to dog walk all three of you m***********,"

According to those present, Fatu’s microphone was cut after he dropped an "F-bomb." The specific wording and full context remain unclear until the episode airs, but the moment has already fueled strong reactions from fans across platforms.

Fake WWE "Fine" Statement Spreads Online

As the video gained traction, an allegedly official WWE statement began circulating that claimed Fatu had been fined for his language. No such statement has been released by WWE, but the fabricated note carried apology language and disciplinary claims.

"WWE would like to sincerely apologize to our fans and everyone who was offended by the recent actions and language of Jacob Fatu," the fake statement read. "The language used was inappropriate and did not reflect the standards WWE expects from its Superstars. Jacob Fatu has been made aware that such behavior will not be tolerated.

When The Episode Airs

"As a result, Jacob Fatu has been fined by WWE for his conduct," it continued. “Jacob has taken responsibility for his actions and extends his sincere apologies to the WWE, our performers, employees, and anyone affected by his remarks. WWE remains committed to maintaining a professional and respectful environment while continuing to provide the entertainment our fans expect.”

With details still unverified, the segment’s presentation—live, edited, or omitted—will only be clear once the show is broadcast. The episode is set to air on Netflix starting 8pm EDT on Monday, August 31. For now, there is no official confirmation of any fine or other disciplinary action.

'Days of Thunder' sequel: Tom Cruise returns, Anne Hathaway joins cast

Asianet News Central — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 14:00:59 +0530

Paramount Pictures has officially greenlit a sequel to 'Days of Thunder', with Tom Cruise returning as NASCAR driver Cole Trickle and Anne Hathaway joining the franchise. The high-profile racing film is scheduled for a theatrical release on June 2, 2028, as per Deadline.

The announcement was made on August 29 from Daytona International Speedway during NASCAR's regular-season finale. Cruise also shared the news on his social platforms, posting a picture of himself and Hathaway leaning against a NASCAR race car. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tom Cruise (@tomcruise)

New and Returning Cast

The sequel marks the first time Cruise and Hathaway will share the screen. While plot details remain under wraps, Hathaway is expected to play a team owner and engineer in the follow-up. Cruise will reprise his role as Cole Trickle, the hot-headed rookie stock car driver he portrayed in the original 1990 film.

Behind the Scenes

Paramount has tapped Jonathan Levine to direct the sequel, with Will Staples writing the script. Cruise is also producing the film alongside Jerry Bruckheimer and Tommy Harper. The film is being prepared for premium theatrical formats, including IMAX, Dolby cinemas, 4DX and other premium large-screen formats, as per Deadline.

About the Original Film

Released in the summer of 1990, 'Days of Thunder' was directed by the late Tony Scott and written by Robert Towne. Cruise played Trickle, a rookie stock car driver who joins NASCAR and faces personal and professional challenges on his path to success. The original film earned USD 82.6 million at the domestic box office and USD 157.9 million worldwide. The original cast also included Robert Duvall, Randy Quaid, Cary Elwes, Caroline Williams and Michael Rooker. Cruise conceived the story, while Don Simpson and Bruckheimer produced the film.

Actors' Upcoming Projects

Hathaway joins the project after a busy summer that included 'The Devil Wears Prada 2', 'The Odyssey' and 'The End of Oak Street'. She is next set to appear in 'Verity', which is scheduled to bow in October. Meanwhile, Tom Cruise is also gearing up for the release of 'Digger' which is scheduled to be released worldwide in theatres on October 2. (ANI)

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

Samay Raina Roasts Archana Puran Singh’s Family, Sons Get Front-Row ‘Beizzati’

Nancy Tiwari — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 13:33:15 +0530

Archana Puran Singh once again found herself at the centre of Samay Raina’s signature roast when she appeared on India’s Got Latent 2 Season 2, Episode 5. Joining her on the panel were Orry, Nishant Suri and Sharon Verma, while Archana’s husband Parmeet Sethi and their sons, Aaryamann and Ayushmaan Sethi, watched from the front row.

Samay Raina Targets Archana’s Family

This time, Samay shifted his attention from Archana to her family. Referring to the family’s popular vlogs, he joked that while Archana works, her husband and two sons do not.

Archana was quick to respond, pointing towards her sons and saying, “Maine bola tha pehle front row mein mat baithna. This is not how you get fame. This is how you get beizzati.”

Samay continued the roast, joking that there was “reverse patriarchy” in Archana’s household because she was the only woman working. He also poked fun at her role on The Great Indian Kapil Show, where her infectious laughter has become a recurring joke. Archana, however, defended her job, saying that laughing on cue is far more difficult than it appears and called it “the toughest work”.

Archana’s Family Is A Regular Part Of Her Vlogs

Archana has been actively sharing family vlogs on YouTube since 2024, regularly featuring Parmeet and their sons, Aaryamann and Ayushmaan. Their everyday conversations, personal moments and career journeys have become a major part of her content, helping her channel cross one million subscribers. Interestingly, Samay himself has also appeared in one of the family’s vlogs.

Chello Meme Wins The Episode

Meanwhile, influencer Chello Meme from Arunachal Pradesh emerged as the winner of the latest episode. She won the competition and took home a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh along with two brand-new phones.

Inside Akanksha Chamola's Mumbai Home: Farah Khan Gives House Tour (PHOTOS)

Amrita Ghosh — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 13:13:24 +0530

Farah Khan recently visited Akanksha Chamola's Mumbai home, offering fans a glimpse of her cozy family space. During the tour, the actress also opened up about the emotional challenges she faced after leaving Lock Upp Season 2

Filmmaker Farah Khan recently took viewers inside actress Akanksha Chamola's Mumbai home, giving them a glimpse of her comfortable family space and everyday life. The house tour also became an opportunity for Akanksha to speak candidly about what happened after her stint on Lock Upp Season 2.

Akanksha is currently living with her parents but has plans to move into a home of her own. During Farah's visit, she also introduced the filmmaker to her mother's kitchen and prepared chaisu bhaat, a traditional dish from Uttarakhand.

Here are three things that stood out from the home tour and Akanksha's candid conversation.

Farah Khan described Akanksha's house as a sweet and comfortable space. However, when Farah asked whether it was the house where Akanksha had grown up, the actress clarified that she did not spend her childhood there.

The actress currently lives with her parents and appears to share a close bond with them. While the family home is comfortable, Akanksha is already looking forward to having a place of her own in the future.

The interiors have a warm, understated feel. The living room features a beige sofa, a wooden centre table and wood-panelled walls. Several indoor plants add a touch of greenery to the space, while a large window allows plenty of natural light to enter the room.

The window also opens towards the balcony, which has been filled with plants carefully arranged by Akanksha and her parents.

The house tour offered viewers a closer look at several parts of Akanksha's family home. From the living room, different sections of the house, including the dining area, mandir, kitchen and bedrooms, can be accessed.

One of the more personal moments came when Akanksha took Farah into her mother's kitchen. She prepared chaisu bhaat, a traditional Uttarakhand preparation, giving the tour a distinctly homely touch.

The balcony, meanwhile, stood out for its collection of plants. The greenery complements the wooden elements inside the house and gives the otherwise simple interiors a relaxed atmosphere.

Rather than presenting an extravagant celebrity home, the tour focused on a lived-in family space that reflects Akanksha's current life with her parents.

Akanksha Chamola Talks About Life After Lock Upp

The home tour also turned emotional when Akanksha spoke about adjusting to life after Lock Upp Season 2.

She admitted that returning to normal life was not easy and that she needed time to process her experience on the reality show. According to Akanksha, she struggled with sleep even after returning home and continued experiencing memories of her time inside the show.

She recalled seeing images of herself in the Lock Upp yard in her mind and said the show's music continued playing in her head at night. The experience affected her mother as well, as Akanksha said neither of them was able to sleep properly for a period after her return.

Akanksha was eliminated from Lock Upp Season 2 just one day before the grand finale. Content creator Shreya Kalra eventually emerged as the winner of the reality show, which was hosted by Farah Khan and Riteish Deshmukh.

Malti Marie ties first Rakhi to Parineeti Chopra's son Neer Chadha

Asianet News Central — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 13:00:34 +0530

Bollywood actor Parineeti Chopra on Sunday shared a heartwarming glimpse of her infant son Neer Chadha celebrating his first Raksha Bandhan, with the little boy receiving his first Rakhi from his older cousin, Priyanka Chopra's daughter, Malti Marie. Parineeti posted a picture of Neer's hand wearing the Rakhi tied around his tiny wrist and expressed her gratitude for the special gesture from his "Malti didi". Priyanka Chopra later reposted the moment on her Instagram Stories and responded affectionately, "Didi loves you baby Neer." The exchange celebrated the bond between the cousins despite the families living in different parts of the world.

Neer was welcomed by Parineeti and her husband, Raghav Chadha, on October 19, 2025, in Delhi. Parineeti and Raghav officially revealed his name one month later, on November 19, 2025.

On the Work Front

On the professional front, Parineeti is set to return to acting with a psychological crime thriller series for Netflix, currently titled 'Shaque: Trust No One.' Priyanka, meanwhile, is returning to Indian cinema with the action-adventure film 'Varanasi'. Directed by SS Rajamouli and co-starring Mahesh Babu, the film is scheduled for release in April 2027.

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

'Mann Ki Baat': PM Modi honours 'Mahanayak' Uttam Kumar on birth centenary

Asianet News Central — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 12:30:25 +0530

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to legendary Bengali actor Uttam Kumar in the 137th episode of 'Mann Ki Baat', ahead of the actor's birth centenary on September 3. PM Modi described Kumar as a versatile performer who captivated audiences and earned a lasting place in their hearts.

PM Modi on the 'Mahanayak'

"On September 3, we will mark the birth centenary of legendary actor Uttam Kumar. A versatile performer, he captivated audiences with his remarkable portrayals and earned a lasting place in the hearts of people," the Prime Minister said. Born Arun Kumar Chattopadhyay on September 3, 1926, Uttam Kumar is fondly remembered as "Mahanayak" of Bengali cinema. His career spanned more than three decades, during which he worked as an actor, director, producer, screenwriter and composer.

The Satyajit Ray Connection

In his address, PM Modi also referred to the enduring connection between Uttam Kumar and filmmaker Satyajit Ray. Film lovers have long believed that Ray wrote his 1966 film 'Nayak- The Hero' with Uttam Kumar in mind. "Uttam Kumar ji was a versatile actor who won hearts with his acting. Film lovers believe that Mr Satyajit Ray wrote the entire script of the film 'Nayak-The Hero' keeping the great hero Uttam Kumar ji in mind. Mr Satyajit Ray had said that he had dignity along with amazing emotional depth. He worked very hard to bring the character to life," Modi said.

Uttam Kumar's portrayal of the complex matinee idol in 'Nayak' remains one of the defining performances of his career. The film explored the psychological pressures surrounding fame, with Kumar bringing vulnerability and emotional depth to the central character.

From Struggle to Stardom

The actor's rise to stardom followed a difficult beginning. His film journey started with a supporting role in 'Drishtidan' in 1948, while his early releases faced repeated box-office failures. He eventually found success with 'Basu Paribar' in 1952.

The 1953 film 'Sharey Chuattor' marked a major turning point and also established his celebrated screen partnership with Suchitra Sen. The duo went on to feature together in several popular films, including 'Agni Pariksha', 'Harano Sur' and 'Saptapadi.'

A Multifaceted and Enduring Legacy

Uttam Kumar also achieved a significant milestone when he became the first recipient of the National Film Award for Best Actor in 1967, recognised for his performances in 'Antony Firingee' and Satyajit Ray's 'Chiriyakhana.'

Beyond acting, Kumar directed films, composed music and sang playback tracks. He was also known for his philanthropy and resilience, with his contributions extending beyond cinema.

Uttam Kumar died following a heart attack on July 24, 1980. His legacy continues to occupy a central place in Bengali cinema. (ANI)

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

Mirzapur: The Movie Gets CBFC Certificate; Runtime and Plot Details Out; Check Here

Amrita Ghosh — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 12:08:49 +0530

If you are planning a quick trip to the cinema, Mirzapur: The Movie may require a little more time than expected.

According to certification details available on the Central Board of Film Certification website, the film has a runtime of 197.19 minutes, which comes to approximately 3 hours and 17 minutes. The movie was certified on August 29. Excel Entertainment applied for certification, while the Mumbai regional office of the CBFC processed the film.

The lengthy runtime indicates that the makers are preparing a much bigger chapter for the Mirzapur universe, with several major characters and storylines coming together on the big screen.

The Bloody Battle for Mirzapur's Throne Is Far From Over

The certification details have also revealed the official plot of the film, confirming that the brutal fight for control of Mirzapur is far from finished.

The story follows the escalating battle for Mirzapur's throne as old enemies resurface and new threats emerge. With blood debts waiting to be settled, power-hungry contenders will fight for control of the city's violent underworld. The film promises the elements that made the original series a huge success - revenge, betrayal, deadly rivalries and an intense struggle for power.

For fans who have followed Guddu Pandit's journey and Kaleen Bhaiya's ruthless reign over the years, the movie appears ready to take their conflict to a much bigger scale.

Fan Favourites Return, But Bablu Pandit Has a New Face

One of the biggest highlights of Mirzapur: The Movie is the return of several beloved characters.

Ali Fazal is back as Guddu Pandit, while Pankaj Tripathi returns as the powerful Kaleen Bhaiya. Divyenndu will also reprise his role as Munna Tripathi, bringing one of the franchise's most memorable characters back to the Mirzapur universe.

Several other familiar faces are also returning. Abhishek Banerjee reprises his role as Compounder, Harshita Gaur plays Dimpy Pandit, Shriya Pilgaonkar returns as Sweety Gupta, Shweta Tripathi is back as Golu Gupta and Rasika Dugal reprises her role as Bina Tripathi. Mohit Mallik, Sonal Chauhan and Ravi Kishan are also part of the film's cast.

However, there is one major change that fans are likely to notice. Jitendra Kumar will play Bablu Pandit in the film, replacing Vikrant Massey, who originally portrayed the character in the first season of Mirzapur.

The movie marks a major new chapter for a franchise that began on Amazon Prime Video in 2018. The first season premiered on November 16, 2018, and went on to become one of India's most popular streaming shows.

Mirzapur 2 followed in 2020, while the third season arrived in 2024. Now, the world of Guddu Pandit, Kaleen Bhaiya and Mirzapur's deadly power struggle is heading to theatres.

With a runtime of more than three hours, the return of fan-favourite characters and a fresh battle for the throne, Mirzapur: The Movie is shaping up to be a major big-screen event for fans of the franchise.

The Academy spotlights Deepika's Naina from 'Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani'

Asianet News Central — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 12:01:22 +0530

One of Deepika Padukone's beloved characters Naina Talwar from 'Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani' has received a special spotlight from The Academy, which shared a clip from the 2013 Hindi film on its official Instagram account. The Academy's post carried the caption, "A reminder from Naina to enjoy what's right in front of you."

Naina's Lesson on Mindfulness

The clip features the scene from the Ayan Mukerji's romantic drama where Naina shares a profound moment with Bunny (played by Ranbir Kapoor) in Udaipur during sunset just before Aditi's (Kalki Koechlin) wedding.

When Bunny stresses about rushing to the next planned activity, Naina reminds him that it is impossible to experience everything in life and that they should instead appreciate the present moment.

This serene scene serves as a pivotal turning point where Naina teaches the hyper-ambitious Bunny the importance of mindfulness and finding joy right where they are.

'Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani' stars Deepika Padukone, Ranbir Kapoor, Aditya Roy Kapoor and Kalki Koechlin in lead roles. The film has remained a fan favourite since its 2013 release.

Overwhelming Fan Reaction

The Academy's social media post also drew engagement from accounts including Netflix India and Dharma Productions, while commenters expressed their delight at seeing the Bollywood film receive recognition on the platform.

Fans also chimed in in the comments section, expressing their love for the movie.

"This movie will forever have my heart," a fan wrote.

Another fan wrote, "I've watched thousands of movies, but Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani always hits different. No matter how many times I watch it, I come back to this movie at least once a year. And deep down, it just feels like home."

"Ok fine I'll watch YJHD again!!!!" a third fan wrote.

A Timeless Coming-of-Age Drama

'Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani' is a definitive Hindi coming-of-age romantic drama directed by Ayan Mukerji.

The blockbuster follows four friends, played by Ranbir Kapoor, Deepika Padukone, Aditya Roy Kapur, and Kalki Koechlin, from a Himalayan trek to an Udaipur wedding. Exploring ambition versus love, the film achieved cult status, legendary for its electric lead chemistry and Pritam's chart-busting soundtrack, featuring massive anthems like 'Badtameez Dil', 'Balam Pichkari', 'Kabira', and 'Subhanallah' that remain timeless celebration classics.

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

WATCH: Rakhi Sawant’s Mecca Prayer Mat Distribution Turns Chaotic as Crowd Video Goes Viral

Nancy Tiwari — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 12:00:22 +0530

Rakhi Sawant is making headlines during her Umrah pilgrimage in Mecca after a video of her distributing prayer mats among pilgrims went viral on social media. What began as a charitable gesture soon attracted a large crowd, creating a chaotic moment that caught everyone’s attention online.

Rakhi Distributes Over 100 Prayer Mats

According to the viral video, Rakhi arrived in Mecca carrying more than 100 prayer mats, intending to distribute them among devotees visiting the holy city. Dressed in a hijab and burqa, she was seen interacting with pilgrims and handing out the mats personally.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by cElEbRiTy CaMeRa (@celebscamera)

During the video, Rakhi reportedly referred to herself as “Rakhi Fatima” while participating in the charitable activity. Initially, the distribution appeared calm, but the situation quickly changed as more people gathered around her.

Crowd Rush Creates Chaotic Moment

As the number of people increased, several individuals reportedly rushed forward to collect the prayer mats. The crowd became increasingly difficult to manage, and Rakhi was seen repeatedly urging people to remain calm while chanting religious phrases.

One particularly striking moment occurred when her hijab appeared to be pulled amid the crowd. Rakhi reacted visibly, and the incident quickly became a major talking point among social media users. Fortunately, the situation was brought under control before it escalated further.

Social Media Reacts to Viral Video

Many users criticised the behaviour of the crowd, saying that the situation was disappointing, especially considering the sacred surroundings. Several comments praised the charitable intention behind Rakhi’s gesture while questioning the rush and disorder among those trying to receive the prayer mats.

Apart from the distribution drive, Rakhi has also shared videos from her Umrah journey in which she prayed for people affected by floods in Nepal, drawing further attention to her pilgrimage.

Suhana Khan Stuns in Rs. 2.14 Lakh Alex Perry Dress, Versace Mini Dress Worth THIS Whopping Amount

Amrita Ghosh — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 11:15:49 +0530

Suhana Khan has left fans impressed with her latest fashion outing, serving two completely different looks in one Instagram carousel - from a dramatic plum Alex Perry gown to a playful Versace mini dress

Suhana Khan knows how to keep things interesting when it comes to fashion, and her latest Instagram carousel is proof.

Sharing glimpses from a glamorous Cartier evening, Suhana posted pictures featuring beautiful waterfront views, sunsets, moonlit moments and even a few adorable cats. Her caption, "Cartier made me a cat person," perfectly tied the entire photo dump together.

But, naturally, it was her wardrobe that caught everyone's attention.

For her first look, Suhana slipped into a stunning plum strapless dress by Alex Perry. The outfit, reportedly priced at around ₹2,14,532, featured a structured corset-style bodice and a long, sleek silhouette.

The deep plum shade made the look stand out instantly. Instead of going for the usual black evening gown, Suhana chose a rich colour that felt elegant, bold and refreshing.

The dress did not need excessive styling. Its sharp tailoring and flattering fit were enough to create a strong fashion moment.

While the plum dress set the mood, Suhana's Cartier jewellery added the real wow factor.

She wore a dazzling diamond necklace featuring a feline-inspired design, a perfect nod to the playful theme behind her Instagram caption. The necklace immediately became the highlight of the look without taking away from the elegance of the dress.

The styling was kept simple and polished. Suhana wore her hair in soft waves and opted for defined brows, warm-toned makeup and a subtle lip shade.

Styled by Ami Patel, the entire look felt carefully put together without appearing overdone.

That is what made the combination work so well. The dress brought the drama, the jewellery added the sparkle and the beauty look kept everything fresh and effortless.

Suhana Then Switched to a ₹6.6 Lakh Versace Mini Dress

The second look in the carousel had a completely different mood.

Moving away from the structured glamour of the plum gown, Suhana wore a delicate lace-trim silk cady satin mini dress from Versace. The dress is reportedly priced at approximately ₹6,60,700.

With its satin finish, lace details and lingerie-inspired design, the outfit had a softer and more playful feel.

The mini dress brought out a younger, flirtier side of Suhana's style while still staying firmly rooted in luxury fashion. She paired it with a Chanel bag, completing the look with another touch of classic designer glamour.

Samay Raina comedy row: Vindu Dara Singh stresses national unity

Asianet News Central — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 10:30:32 +0530

New Delhi [India], August 30 (ANI): Comedian Samay Raina has come under fresh criticism after an exchange with comedian Sharon Verma on Season 2 of India's Got Latent triggered strong reactions over jokes involving Bihar and Kashmir. Several political leaders have commented on the episode, with some condemning the remarks while others calling for the exchange to be viewed in the context of comedy.

Vindu Dara Singh calls for unity

Amid the political reactions, actor Vindu Dara Singh stressed the importance of keeping the country united while discussing the broader question of governance and state boundaries. "Our country is vast, with a population of 1.5 billion; it cannot be governed by a single individual sitting at the center, the way kings and maharajas used to rule from Delhi in the past," he said while speaking to ANI. He continued, "For the country's progress, governance at the state level is essential, but all states must remain united... Punjab and Haryana were once part of the same region; the area was divided, but that happened because it was too vast and difficult to administer. When a state is divided, understand that it is often for the better, it is not necessarily a bad thing. So, let us remember that we are one. Stay away from those who wish to spread hatred or incite conflict between communities."

Singh's remarks came amid criticism of an exchange between comedian Samay Raina and comedian Sharon Verma during Season 2 of 'India's Got Latent', which has attracted political attention over jokes involving Bihar and Kashmir. Sharon Verma, a former contestant from the first season, appeared as a panellist alongside Samay Raina, Orry, Archana Puran Singh and Nishant Suri. During the episode, Raina made a joke about Verma's Bihari roots and stereotypes surrounding migration for work. Verma responded with a joke about Raina's Kashmiri identity and "getting stoned", and also said she had "atleast left her state by choice." https://www.instagram.com/p/Dcl57YdykCe/ The exchange appeared to be mutual comic banter, with both comedians engaging with the jokes. However, clips from the episode have since drawn strong reactions online and the comments have also attracted political attention.

Political Backlash

Shiv Sena (UBT) criticises Raina

Speaking to ANI, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Anand Dubey criticised Raina's comedy and said the comedian should avoid bringing caste, states or religions into his routines. "Samay Raina is a comedian. His comedy routines often feature a great deal of obscenity. He has been involved in numerous controversies before; he has always been a controversial figure... But Samay Raina has just made another controversial statement. His recent altercation with another comedian, Sharon Verma, reveals a profound lack of understanding on their part. These people will stoop to any level just to make money. Samay Raina understands neither Bihar nor Jammu and Kashmir properly. Although he hails from Jammu and Kashmir, he shows no loyalty to that region, and certainly none to the people of Bihar... Just stick to comedy. Why drag specific castes, states, or religions into it?...", he said.

Bihar Minister condemns derogatory remarks

Bihar Education Minister Mithilesh Tiwari also criticised derogatory remarks against citizens and said the BJP stands for an undivided India without discrimination based on caste or creed. "Any derogatory remark against any citizen of our country is intolerable; those who make such comments are essentially talking about tearing the nation apart. We envision an undivided India; for us, the king and the commoner are equal, and there should be no discrimination in the country based on caste or creed. This is the clear stance of the BJP," Tiwari said.

'Humour should be taken as humour': Sanjay Nirupam

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam said comedy should be treated as comedy, but said he was uncomfortable with both the Bihar-related remark and Verma's response concerning Kashmir. He said, "Samay Raina's show is a comedy show, and I believe humour should be taken as humour. I know the remark related to Bihar wasn't good, and the way the girl connected to Bihar gave a sharp retort in the context of Kashmir, didn't sit well with me either... The atrocities committed against Kashmiri Pandits - she, in some way, commented on those atrocities, and Samay Raina, who is a Kashmiri Pandit, was clapping for it. That didn't sit well with me either... I felt like the injustice faced by Kashmiri Pandits was being mocked, but in the end, I forgive both those kids. It was humour, and it should be taken as a joke...There is no place for obscenity in society. If someone spreads obscenity in the name of humour, then certainly there should be a ban on them..."

Congress leader Harish Rawat on the 'value of humour'

Congress leader Harish Rawat said humour loses its value when it is used to mock a caste, community or region. "Humour is a divine art form that uplifts people, gladdens the heart, and lightens the burden of worries. However, when you misuse it to portray a caste, community, or region in a derogatory or mocking manner, it diminishes the value of humour itself. Samay Raina needs to understand this," Rawat said.

AAP leader suggests dialogue

AAP leader Sanjay Singh took a more conciliatory position, saying comedians may make mistakes while trying to make audiences laugh and that they should be engaged in dialogue rather than targeted. "I think that if a comedian says something like this, their intention is to make people laugh. In that process, sometimes they make mistakes. But I think it is not right to turn it into an issue and target them. Instead, one should engage in dialogue with them and explain," he said.

BJP MLA condemns 'mischievous acts'

BJP MLA RS Pathania condemned the remarks, saying, "India has a collective flow, a collective sentiment, India has a history, a tradition, and a golden future. Mischievous acts like this have previously led to fines for Samay Raina, but by tearing apart the guidelines set by law, the Constitution, and social ethics, he has made the remark again. We condemn it..."

PDP leader on respecting Kashmiri Pandits

PDP leader Syed Tajamul Islam emphasised the importance of respecting Kashmiri Pandits and their connection to Jammu and Kashmir. "The land of Jammu and Kashmir remains incomplete without (Kashmiri Pandits)... They did not leave their homes out of mere choice. The way these personalities are sometimes treated, there is no room for such conduct in either religion or humanity... We await their return, but wherever they are, they deserve great respect," he said.

'Be mindful of others' feelings': Tariq Anwar

Congress leader Tariq Anwar said people should be mindful of others' feelings while speaking. "We are civilised citizens of India. People are born in different places. While speaking, one should keep in mind that no one's feelings are hurt," he said.

BJP leader calls for stricter laws

BJP leader Ram Kadam called for stricter legal measures against remarks that hurt religious or other sentiments, while also urging the public to respond on social media. "We all respect any artist's talent, his art, but if under the guise of art, someone's faith, belief, or sentiments are hurt, it simply means that the artist is crossing certain boundaries to cause pain to people. Now this has become a trend. For publicity stunts, people start dragging in gods and goddesses or sentiments... It all ends with an apology... Now the time has come to enact a strict law against this... Then no one will have the courage to do such things. Enacting a strict law is the need of the hour, but until such a law is made, the public should ban such people on social media so that their minds come to their senses... Whether it's Samay Raina or anyone else under the guise of art, no one's sentiments can be hurt, and if someone is doing that, they cannot be forgiven."

Samay Raina and Sharon Verma have yet to issue a public response to the criticism surrounding their exchange. (ANI)

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

Hanuman Ansh Trend: No Big Star, Yet Massive Buzz! Film Records Huge Day 23 Earnings

Nancy Tiwari — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 09:43:01 +0530

While Yash’s ‘Toxic’ is struggling to show growth at the box office, a film without a big or recognisable face has turned into a surprise tsunami in its fourth week. We are talking about the devotional drama ‘Hanuman Ansh’, which released on August 7 and initially seemed headed for disaster after a slow first two weeks. However, the film picked up momentum from its third week and has now recorded its biggest single-day collection on Day 23.

Hanuman Ansh Records Biggest Collection On Day 23

Directed by Vishal Chaturvedi, ‘Hanuman Ansh’ collected approximately Rs 9.25 crore on its 23rd day, which was the second day of its fourth week. The film witnessed a massive 48% jump in its collection compared to Day 22. Interestingly, ‘Hanuman Ansh’ was screened across 4,137 shows on Saturday, while it had received only 355 shows on its opening day.

This means the film’s show count on Day 23 was around 11.65 times higher than its opening day. After 23 days, the film’s India net collection stands at Rs 27.38 crore, while its gross collection has reached Rs 32.33 crore.

Low-Budget Film Turns Into A Blockbuster

There are different reports regarding the budget of ‘Hanuman Ansh’. While some reports claim that the film was made on a budget of Rs 10 crore, newer reports suggest its cost could be as low as Rs 2 crore. Either way, the film has emerged as a blockbuster.

If the Rs 2 crore budget figure is considered, the film has already earned over 13 times its reported cost in India net collections. Its Day 23 collection alone was more than 4.6 times the reported budget.

Hanuman Ansh Cast And Story

The devotional drama is inspired by the life of Neem Karoli Baba. Produced under the banners of Swayambhu Media Network Private Limited and Holy Cow Home Productions, the film stars Chandan Anand, Shobhinav Satya, Purnima Tiwari and Vihaan Shedge.

Inside PHOTOS of Robert Downey Jr.'s Strange Malibu Dome House That Looks Like Tony Stark Designed

Amrita Ghosh — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 09:36:26 +0530

Robert Downey Jr. played Tony Stark for years, but his real-life Malibu property may be just as futuristic. The actor owns a bizarre dome-shaped home that looks less like a mansion and more like a set from a sci-fi film

The futuristic structure is located on Robert Downey Jr. and his wife Susan Downey's sprawling Malibu property.

Unlike a traditional luxury mansion with rectangular rooms, glass walls and sharp architectural lines, this home has an entirely different personality. Its rounded exterior resembles a giant concrete shell emerging from the California landscape.

The approximately 6,500-square-foot structure is not the couple's primary residence. Instead, it was designed as a separate space where the family could entertain guests and enjoy time away from the main house.

And unlike most celebrity guesthouses, this one looks like it could easily belong to Tony Stark.

The House Was Built Using an Extraordinary Technique

What makes the Malibu dome even more fascinating is how it was constructed.

The structure uses the Binishell architectural system, originally developed by Italian industrial designer Dante Bini. The technique uses an inflatable form to help create the building's distinctive curved shape before the concrete structure is completed.

Robert Downey Jr.'s unusual home was designed using a modern interpretation of this architectural concept. The result is a dramatic thin-shell concrete structure built around flowing, organic shapes instead of conventional corners and straight walls.

Its unusual appearance immediately sets it apart from the massive luxury homes usually associated with Hollywood's biggest stars.

Almost No Straight Lines Inside

The strange design continues once you step inside.

Traditional homes are built around straight walls, rectangular rooms and sharp corners. Robert Downey Jr.'s dome house takes a completely different approach.

The interiors feature curved walls, rounded spaces and organically shaped openings. The unusual geometry meant that designing and furnishing the home required a completely different approach from a conventional luxury property.

Despite its futuristic appearance, the structure was transformed into a functional and comfortable living space.

The Clubhouse reportedly includes several guest spaces, a kitchen and dining area, entertainment zones and even a private screening room.

One of the home's most eye-catching features is also said to be a large saltwater aquarium positioned near the entrance.

Hollywood celebrities are known for owning spectacular properties, but Robert Downey Jr.'s Malibu dome stands apart because it barely looks like a traditional house. From the outside, its enormous rounded concrete forms make it resemble a futuristic sculpture. The unusual windows and doors add even more character, while the flowing exterior gives the property an almost alien appearance.

For visitors, the experience is reportedly completely different from entering a conventional celebrity mansion.

Instead of walking through hallways filled with straight walls and sharp corners, guests enter a world shaped by curves and unusual architectural forms. It is easy to understand why the home has attracted so much attention online.

The Iron Man Connection Is Hard to Ignore

The similarities between Robert Downey Jr.'s famous Marvel character and his real-life home are impossible to miss.

For years, Downey played Tony Stark, the billionaire genius surrounded by futuristic technology, incredible inventions and dramatic architecture.

Tony Stark's world was filled with high-tech laboratories, advanced machines and spectacular homes.

Robert Downey Jr.'s Malibu Binishell may not contain Iron Man suits or a hidden superhero laboratory, but visually, it certainly looks like it could belong in that universe.

Its futuristic domes and unusual design have led many fans to compare the property to something Tony Stark himself might have imagined.

The unusual shape of the Binishell was not created only for dramatic visual appeal.

The architectural concept is also associated with structural efficiency and innovative construction techniques. The flowing design takes inspiration from natural forms rather than relying entirely on conventional box-shaped buildings.

That combination of unusual engineering and futuristic design makes the Malibu property even more fascinating.

Rather than building another giant glass mansion overlooking the California coast, Robert Downey Jr. chose something completely different. The result is a property that looks both futuristic and strangely timeless.

Robert Downey Jr. has owned some impressive properties over the years, but his Malibu dome remains one of the most unusual celebrity homes associated with the actor.

Its giant concrete shells, curved interiors and sci-fi appearance make it unlike almost anything else in Malibu.

Hollywood has no shortage of enormous celebrity mansions, but this property stands out because it refuses to look like one.

Robert Downey Jr. spent years bringing Tony Stark's futuristic world to life on screen. In Malibu, it appears that a small piece of that futuristic imagination may have followed him home.

Because while the actor's strange dome house may not have an Iron Man suit hidden inside, it certainly looks like a place where Tony Stark would feel right at home.

Samay Raina’s India’s Got Latent 2 Sparks Row Over Bihar-Kashmir Jokes; Politicians React

Nancy Tiwari — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 09:32:09 +0530

Samay Raina’s latest episode of India’s Got Latent 2 has triggered controversy after jokes about Bihar and Kashmir went viral. What began as banter between Raina and comedian Sharon Verma has now drawn political criticism, with leaders questioning whether sensitive regional and historical issues should be used for comedy.

What Happened Between Samay Raina And Sharon Verma?

Sharon Verma appeared as a panelist on a recent episode of India’s Got Latent 2. During their interaction, Samay Raina made a joke about Sharon’s Bihari background, referring to her moving from Bihar to Mumbai for work.

Sharon hit back with a remark about Raina’s Kashmiri identity. Her response quickly became the more discussed part of the exchange, with clips from the episode spreading across social media.

Sharon’s Kashmir Remark Sparks Debate

Sharon reportedly responded to Raina by saying that, unlike him, she had left her state by choice. While some viewers viewed the comeback as part of the show’s humour, others felt the remark touched upon the displacement of Kashmiri Pandits, making it a sensitive issue.

The viral exchange soon moved beyond social media debates, with political leaders weighing in on the controversy.

Politicians React To India’s Got Latent 2 Row

Bihar Education Minister Mithilesh Tiwari criticised derogatory comments about any state or community, stressing that caste and regional identity should not become grounds for discrimination.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Anand Dubey also questioned the use of caste, state and religion-related subjects in comedy. He argued that entertainment should have certain boundaries when sensitive issues are involved.

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam said comedy should be treated as comedy but expressed discomfort with both the Bihar joke and the Kashmir-related response, particularly given the history surrounding Kashmiri Pandit displacement.

The controversy also drew reactions from Jammu and Kashmir. PDP leader Syed Tajamul Islam stressed the importance of respecting Kashmiri Pandits, while BJP MLA RS Pathania criticised the remarks.

As the clips continue circulating online, the debate over comedy, free expression and sensitivity has once again taken centre stage.

Toxic Box Office Collection Day 4: Yash’s Film Nears Rs 200 Crore in India Despite Saturday Dip

Nancy Tiwari — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 08:25:39 +0530

Yash’s much-awaited action drama ‘Toxic’ continued its box office run over the first weekend, but the film failed to witness the expected growth in collections on Saturday. After opening with an impressive ₹101.10 crore net in India, the film has recorded a decline on each of the following three days. Despite the slowdown, ‘Toxic’ is now close to entering the ₹200 crore club in India and has already crossed ₹250 crore worldwide.

Toxic Day 4 Box Office Collection

‘Toxic’ collected ₹24.50 crore net in India on Day 4, according to the latest figures. The collection was around 9.9% lower than the ₹27.20 crore earned on Day 3.

The film opened with ₹101.10 crore on Day 1, followed by ₹37.65 crore on Day 2 and ₹27.20 crore on Day 3. With Saturday’s earnings added, the Yash starrer has now earned ₹190.45 crore net in India in four days.

The film is expected to cross the ₹200 crore mark in India after its Day 5 figures are recorded. A collection of around ₹10 crore on Sunday would be enough for ‘Toxic’ to enter the coveted club.

Hindi Version Crosses ₹100 Crore

The Hindi version of ‘Toxic’ has emerged as the film’s biggest contributor among its language versions. It has now crossed the ₹100 crore milestone, with its total net collection reaching ₹114.50 crore.

On Day 4, the Hindi version contributed ₹15.50 crore, taking its overall collection to ₹114.50 crore. The Kannada version earned ₹6.60 crore on Saturday and has collected ₹43.40 crore so far.

The Telugu version added ₹1.50 crore on Day 4, taking its total to ₹22 crore. Meanwhile, the Tamil version collected around ₹0.75 crore on Saturday, with its total standing at ₹8.50 crore. The Malayalam version earned ₹15 lakh on Day 4 and has collected ₹2.05 crore so far.

Together, all five language versions have taken ‘Toxic’ to ₹190.45 crore net in India after four days.

Toxic Day 4 Shows and Occupancy

On Saturday, ‘Toxic’ was screened across 17,612 shows in India. The film recorded an overall occupancy of 22.33%.

The morning shows registered 15.31% occupancy, while the afternoon shows recorded 26.69%. The evening shows had an occupancy of around 25%, with the final figures for the late-evening shows still awaited.

Toxic Worldwide Box Office Collection

‘Toxic’ also continued its overseas run on Day 4. The film earned approximately ₹4 crore from overseas markets, taking its overseas collection to around ₹27.25 crore.

In India, the film’s gross collection stood at approximately ₹227.50 crore. As a result, ‘Toxic’ has recorded a worldwide gross collection of approximately ₹254.75 crore in four days.

With Sunday expected to bring another crucial day for the film, all eyes are now on whether Yash’s ‘Toxic’ can regain momentum and comfortably cross the ₹200 crore net milestone in India.

Samay Raina, Sharon Verma's banter on show sparks online controversy

Asianet News Central — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 01:00:26 +0530

Comedian Samay Raina has once again found himself in the middle of a controversy following banter with fellow comedian Sharon Verma on Season 2 of 'India's Got Latent'.

In the recent episode, Sharon Verma, a former contestant from the show's first season, joined as a panellist with Samay alongside Orry, Archana Puran Singh, and Nishant Suri. At one point, Raina took a dig at Verma's Bihari roots and stereotypes around migration for work, to which the latter responded by joking about his Kashmiri identity and "getting stoned." She also quipped that she had "atleast left her state by choice."

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sharon Verma (@sharonverma)

While the exchange appeared as mutual comic banter, showing both enjoying the moments, clips from the episode have triggered strong reactions online. It has also drawn the attention of political leaders, reigniting a debate over insensitive jokes.

Political Leaders Condemn Remarks

Speaking to ANI, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Anand Dubey called out Samay Raina's comedy routines. "Samay Raina is a comedian. His comedy routines often feature a great deal of obscenity. He has been involved in numerous controversies before; he has always been a controversial figure... But Samay Raina has just made another controversial statement. His recent altercation with another comedian, Sharon Verma, reveals a profound lack of understanding on their part. These people will stoop to any level just to make money. Samay Raina understands neither Bihar nor Jammu and Kashmir properly. Although he hails from Jammu and Kashmir, he shows no loyalty to that region, and certainly none to the people of Bihar... Just stick to comedy. Why drag specific castes, states, or religions into it?...", he said.

Bihar Education Minister Mithilesh Tiwari, while speaking to the media, shared, "Any derogatory remark against any citizen of our country is intolerable; those who make such comments are essentially talking about tearing the nation apart. We envision an undivided India; for us, the king and the commoner are equal, and there should be no discrimination in the country based on caste or creed. This is the clear stance of the BJP."

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam says, "Samay Raina's show is a comedy show, and I believe humour should be taken as humour. I know the remark related to Bihar wasn't good, and the way the girl connected to Bihar gave a sharp retort in the context of Kashmir, didn't sit well with me either... The atrocities committed against Kashmiri Pandits - she, in some way, commented on those atrocities, and Samay Raina, who is a Kashmiri Pandit, was clapping for it. That didn't sit well with me either... I felt like the injustice faced by Kashmiri Pandits was being mocked, but in the end, I forgive both those kids. It was humour, and it should be taken as a joke...There is no place for obscenity in society. If someone spreads obscenity in the name of humour, then certainly there should be a ban on them..."

Congress leader Harish Rawat added, "Humour is a divine art form that uplifts people, gladdens the heart, and lightens the burden of worries. However, when you misuse it to portray a caste, community, or region in a derogatory or mocking manner, it diminishes the value of humour itself. Samay Raina needs to understand this."

AAP leader Sanjay Singh explained that the comedians only mean to make people laugh as he said, "I think that if a comedian says something like this, their intention is to make people laugh. In that process, sometimes they make mistakes. But I think it is not right to turn it into an issue and target them. Instead, one should engage in dialogue with them and explain."

On the other hand, BJP MLA RS Pathania condemned the remarks. "India has a collective flow, a collective sentiment, India has a history, India has a tradition, and India has a golden future. Mischievous acts like this have previously led to fines for Samay Raina, but by tearing apart the guidelines set by law, the Constitution, and social ethics, he has made the remark again. We condemn it..." he said.

PDP leader Syed Tajamul Islam emphasised the need to respect the Kashmiri Pandits. "The land of Jammu & Kashmir remains incomplete without (Kashmiri Pandits)... They did not leave their homes out of mere choice. The way these personalities are sometimes treated, there is no room for such conduct in either religion or humanity... We await their return, but wherever they are, they deserve great respect," he said.

Congress leader Tariq Anwar says, "We are civilised citizens of India. People are born in different places. While speaking, one should keep in mind that no one's feelings are hurt."

BJP leader Ram Kadam says, "We all respect any artist's talent, his art, but if under the guise of art, someone's faith, belief, or sentiments are hurt, it simply means that the artist is crossing certain boundaries to cause pain to people. Now this has become a trend. For publicity stunts, people start dragging in gods and goddesses or sentiments... It all ends with an apology... Now the time has come to enact a strict law against this... Then no one will have the courage to do such things. Enacting a strict law is the need of the hour, but until such a law is made, the public should ban such people on social media so that their minds come to their senses... Whether it's Samay Raina or anyone else under the guise of art, no one's sentiments can be hurt, and if someone is doing that, they cannot be forgiven."

As political and public reactions continue to mount, Samay Raina and Sharon Verma are yet to issue a public response to the criticism surrounding the episode. (ANI)

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

25 Years of Dil Chahta Hai: Farhan, Aamir, Saif Khan reunite in Mumbai

Asianet News Central — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 00:30:29 +0530

Actor-producer Farhan Akhtar has shared heartwarming glimpses from the recent reunion of the critically acclaimed film 'Dil Chahta Hai' in Mumbai. In an Instagram post, Farhan shared a string of pictures from the event, showing him spending time with the team and the lead cast, including Saif Ali Khan and Aamir Khan.

"Somehow..25 years later..we still have a lot to say to each other," he wrote in the caption. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Farhan Akhtar (@faroutakhtar) The pictures show the actors interacting with the media, followed by other moments where they signed autographs, bonded over music, and shared interesting memories.

A Star-Studded Silver Jubilee

On Friday, the film's cast reunited in Mumbai to celebrate the 25th anniversary of 'Dil Chahta Hai'. The reunion was organised to celebrate the silver jubilee of the film's release.

Saif Ali Khan wore a black blazer at the event and donned sunglasses to complement his outfit. He posed with Farhan Akhtar, Aamir Khan, Dimple Kapadia and others for a group photo.

Farhan's wife, Shibani Dandekar, attended the event wearing a blue top and white bottoms. Critically acclaimed filmmaker Zoya Akhtar attended the silver jubilee celebrations in style.

The reunion was also attended by Shriya Pilgaonkar, Gajraj Rao, Shankar Mahadevan, Javed Akhtar, Shabana Azmi, Shibani Dandekar and others who posed for the paps at the event, expressing their love for the silver jubilee celebrations of Dil Chahta Hai.

A Look Back at the Iconic Film

Directed by Farhan Akhtar, the film was a commercial hit at the box office in 2001. The film stars Aamir Khan, Akshaye Khanna, Saif Ali Khan, Preity Zinta, Sonali Kulkarni and Dimple Kapadia in the lead roles.

The film was widely appreciated for its fresh storyline, performances and memorable music. It went on to win the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi and developed a strong following, particularly among urban audiences. Shot across Mumbai and locations in Australia, 'Dil Chahta Hai' also stood out for its contemporary portrayal of friendship and relationships. (ANI)

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

Pratik Gandhi: Experimenting is vital, box office isn't everything

Asianet News Central — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 00:00:33 +0530

On Staying Relevant and Experimentation

What makes an actor stay relevant when audiences have endless choices? For Pratik Gandhi, the answer lies in refusing to play safe. The actor believes performers need to keep experimenting across genres and formats because the same audience that applauds them for one kind of role can reject them if they begin repeating themselves.

"Box office numbers are one of the parameters but these are one of the parameters, it's not the only parameter. The success of the film cannot be defined only by these numbers," Pratik told ANI The actor, known for doing theatre, films and OTT, said the absence of a fixed formula is what makes the creative process interesting.

"We are in the field of experiments and we keep experimenting. I think the experiment should also be applauded equally," said Gandhi while speaking on the sidelines of Ideabaaz Startup Fest 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

The Key to an Actor's Longevity

Pratik believes the changing viewing habits of audiences have also made it important to look beyond theatrical collections when judging a project.

"Not all the subjects need theatre. There are subjects that you see on your television, there are subjects which are more enjoyed on the smaller screen like your mobile. Each subject has a different audience, should be enjoyed differently," he said.

For an actor, however, the challenge is not only finding the right story but also ensuring that audiences do not see the same performance repeatedly. Pratik, who has taken on vastly different characters across his career, said versatility is key to longevity.

"I think this is the biggest asset for an actor if he can establish himself or herself in all different genres. That works the best for the longevity of the actor," he said.

He believes audiences are quick to respond when an actor begins repeating a successful formula.

"Otherwise, the same audience who's clapping for you for a couple of things that you did similarly, the same audience will reject you immediately the moment they see you repeating yourself," he added.

Asked whether actors today have to be more willing to take risks, Pratik was direct: "Absolutely, that's the only way to survive."

His own career reflects that approach. From his breakthrough performance as Harshad Mehta in 'Scam 1992' to his work in 'Phule' and projects across theatre, films and long-format streaming, the actor has continued to move between genres and formats.

Rather than choosing projects based on how they may be perceived, Pratik said he follows his instinct when a script comes his way.

"If a story is so compelling that it wants me personally to know more about it. If the character is so interesting that it demands a lot from me, will add value to me and I can add value to it, then I guess it largely works for me," he said.

On Playing Mahatma Gandhi

One of his biggest challenges so far has been stepping into the shoes of Mahatma Gandhi in Hansal Mehta's series 'Gandhi'. Pratik said his biggest task was not to approach the character as the larger-than-life figure people already know, but to understand the person behind the historical image.

"The biggest challenge for Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi's character was that I was not supposed to portray him in my mind as Mahatma. I was not talking about Mahatma. I was talking about a person, like one of us, who is full of failures," he said.

Instead of judging or sympathising with his characters, Pratik said he tries to understand them psychologically.

"I don't judge my character. I don't sympathize with the character, I just empathize and I try to create the character as is," he said.

For Gandhi, this meant exploring the internal conflicts behind the decisions that eventually shaped his public image.

"The decisions that he took are known to the people. But when he took those decisions what was happening inside his mind is still open to interpretation," Pratik said.

He also believes Gandhi's ideas remain deeply relevant today.

"I guess it is more relevant now than ever before. The world needs more Gandhi than ever before," he said.

On His Upcoming Film 'Mess'

Pratik also spoke about 'Mess', describing his character as complex and the film as a layered story that moves through different tones.

"It is a complex character. 'Mess' as a subject also is very layered. And it starts on a different note, takes a different note, and ends at a different note. And I guess one needs a very extremely balanced and disciplined approach to, portray these characters and pull through the whole film," he said.

Pratik added, "Rajesh A Krishnan, as the world knows him for his quirk, for his madness of filmmaking, kind of films that he has made, leading the project as a director. So it's a very interesting world that he's created with all the characters and the quirks of the character. Especially my character, he has a lot of things going on simultaneously. So at this point, what I can reveal is that I am sure the audience is up for a treat with this film."

Exploring a Cop's Role in 'Ghamasaan'

For Pratik, the constant challenge is to keep moving, between formats, genres and characters, not in simply repeating what worked once, but in having the courage to keep experimenting.

The actor is also exploring another intense role in Tigmanshu Dhulia's 'Ghamasaan', in which he plays a cop. Pratik described working with Dhulia as a "treat" and praised him as a filmmaker who brings together the skills of a writer, director and actor.

"It is a fascinating character. Inspired from real-life stories. So it's a treat to work with him and I hope it works wonderfully with the audience too," he said.

Interestingly, despite sharing the film with Arshad Warsi, Pratik revealed that the two actors do not actually share the screen.

"The fun fact is: so there are two actors like Arshad Warsi and myself, but we have never worked together on this film. We have not shared the screen and that's the script. The dacoit that this IPS officer is chasing, nobody has seen him," he said.

Also starring Ishita Dutta in a pivotal role, the film will be out on ZEE5 on September 11. (ANI)

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

Sidharth Malhotra's 'The Vvaan' inspired by folklore of Van Devi Temple

Asianet News Central — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 23:30:57 +0530

Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia's upcoming film 'The Vvaan' is set to take audiences into an unusual world, bringing fantasy folklore, mystery, spirituality and superntural come together. Writer Arunabh Kumar and director Deepak Kumar Mishra recently opened up about the inspiration behind the film, revealing that its story has roots in a real-life folklore associated with the Van Devi Temple near Patna.

Inspiration from Van Devi Temple Folklore

Speaking to ANI, Arunabh Kumar recalled visiting the temple and learning the stories and legends surrounding its origins. "The story behind that temple is that it was built in the 16th century. In the forest, there were some things that used to trouble the people around there. There was a tradition that people were forbidden to visit the forest after sunset. The legend still remains in place. I spoke to the local people, the priests, and the villagers. Two years ago, I told Deepak about the story, and we both found it very exciting. It was then that we both went to Ektaa Kapoor, and it was she who said that this is a story to be made on a big screen," Kumar said.

Director's Vision and Cinematic Canvas

For director Deepak Kumar Mishra, the appeal of 'Vvaan' lay in the opportunity to tell a heartland-rooted story on a much larger cinematic canvas. "We had to create a new world," Mishra said, explaining that one of the biggest challenges was transforming the story into a cinematic world that could move between contemporary reality and the mysterious environment of the forest.

Mishra, best known for directing Panchayat, also explained why the film's protagonist appealed to him. "Homeland stories always inspire me a lot. This story is about a very contemporary boy who goes back to his roots and follows a path of rediscovery. As soon as this logline came, I developed a lot of interest, as I was already doing it in 'Panchayat. Now that I had the opportunity to present it on a big platform, it was very exciting for me," he added.

Building the World of 'Vvaan'

Mishra also described the process of translating the story through the right use of technology and animation, calling it both challenging and exciting. "When it was narrated, the visuals automatically came to mind. It started from there and then slowly grew with the team. We prepared a cinematic presentation of it. One may not feel it while watching, but there is a lot of technology, a lot of animation, which has been used to build the world, to build that atmosphere," he said.

Teaser Release and Film Details

The official teaser of 'The Vvaan' was unveiled earlier this week. Presented by Balaji Motion Pictures, the teaser promises a captivating journey into a world of fantasy folklore, mystery, ancient beliefs and the supernatural.

Sharing the teaser's link, Sidharth on Instagram wrote, "Humari Rakshak hain woh, jinki Sher savaari hai! 25th Sept ko aa rahi Vvaan ki kahani hai! #THEVVAANTeaser Out Now! Teaser 2 coming #THEVVAAN in cinemas on 25th September, 2026."

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sidharth Malhotra (@sidmalhotra)

Written by Arunabh Kumar and directed by Deepak Mishra, with Manu Anand as DOP and Visual Director, the film is produced by Shobha Kapoor, Ektaa R Kapoor, Arunabh Kumar and Niraj Kothari. 'The Vvaan - Force of the Forrest' arrives in cinemas on September 25, 2026. (ANI)

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

Onam Tourism Week to conclude with grand pageantry in Thiruvananthapuram

Asianet News Central — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 23:00:58 +0530

After showcasing the rhythm and elegance of Kerala's classical, folk and ethnic art traditions before a larger audience, including tourists, the Onam Tourism Week Celebrations are all set to conclude on Sunday with the iconic closing-day pageantry. Vice President CP Radhakrishnan will flag off the procession at 5 pm from Lok Bhavan, a press release stated. Kerala Governor Shri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Chief Minister VD Satheesan, Tourism Minister PC Vishnunadh, Minister for Health, Family Welfare and Devaswoms, K Muraleedharan and Minister for Transport CP John will also attend the ceremony.

Grand Closing Pageantry

The procession will pass through Vellayambalam, Museum, Palayam and Statue before concluding at East Fort.

The procession will feature around 69 floats and installations by various government departments that showcase Kerala's growth as a society, its traditions and culture, and socially relevant issues. Around 99 art forms rooted in different cultural identities will also be part of the procession. Pulikali, Garuda Parave, and Muthappan Theyyam will be featured in the procession as part of Kerala's traditional art forms.

Art performances from Tamil Nadu, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, West Bengal and Telangana will add colour and flair to the grand pageantry.

Performances from the transgender community are also part of the procession.

Meanwhile, there will be traffic restrictions in the city on Sunday due to the procession.

Statewide Festival Highlights

The festival, organised by the State Tourism Department, has enliven multiple venues across the state, besides the state capital.

More than 3,000 artists participated in the event held across 35 venues in the Thiruvananthapuram district, including the prime venues Kanakakkunnu and Central Stadium in the city.

The festival was packed with riveting programmes, providing opportunities to hundreds of artists representing an amazing range of genres.

Around 14 major media organisations associated with the government conducted programmes at Nishagandhi, Central Stadium and Poojappura during the week-long festival.

Kerala's traditional ritual art forms, including Padayani, Theyyam, Mudiyettu, shadow puppetry, Arjuna Nritham, Thira, etc were performed in Nishagandhi during the festival week.

About 100 venues were set up in various districts where around 170 programmes were performed.

More than 8000 artists were part of the programmes across the state.

This time, more venues were added to the festival, including the international beach tourism hub of Kovalam in the state capital.

Food stalls were set up at festival venues across the state, bringing the flavours of different regions to tourists and home crowds alike.

Besides, an array of unique products bearing the imprint of Kerala's tradition and culture were on display at the Onam trade fair and exhibition at Kanakakkunnu Palace.

Platform for Social Campaigns

The event was also leveraged as a platform to raise awareness of the government's flagship schemes and campaigns, including 'Operation Toofan' to crack down on the drug menace.

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

India must be top storytelling power: Haryana CM at Film Expo 2026

Asianet News Central — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 23:00:31 +0530

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Saturday said that India, as a nation with some of the world's greatest stories, should emerge as the most influential storytelling power globally, as he participated in Film Expo India 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in the national capital.

Speaking at the event, Saini said, "I am delighted that this celebration belongs to a new India, an India that is writing its own story. This is a celebration of that India, and today, this India is sharing that very story with the entire world."

Film Expo India 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, the Haryana CM says, "I am delighted that this celebration belongs to a new India, an India that is writing its own story. This is a celebration of that India, and today, this India is sharing that very story with the entire world. A nation that possesses the greatest stories should become the world's most influential storytelling power."

"A nation that possesses the greatest stories should become the world's most influential storytelling power," he added.

The Film Expo India 2026 brought together stakeholders from across the film and entertainment industry, with discussions focusing on the growth of the sector and the role of states in promoting film production.

Vindu Dara Singh Urges Govt Support for Film Industry

Actor Vindu Dara Singh added that the effort behind the expo was to bring the industry's concerns to the attention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"So our attempt was to reach Modiji's ears with our troubles. We all love him very much, and when he sees a problem, like the NEET problem, now Modiji understands the NEET problem and he will solve it. I promise you, such a problem will never happen again in life," he told ANI.

Singh acknowledged that reaching the Prime Minister with every issue was difficult given the scale of challenges facing the country.

"It's very hard to reach him because there are crores of problems in the country. So, the film industry's problem, I wanted to convey that," he said.

Call for Pan-India Support from States

He also said the expo's aim was to encourage governments across the country to extend support to filmmakers and production houses.

"And we called every minister, called all the states. We want all the states in India to support the film industry. Wherever they go for shooting, they should give something," Singh said.

Praising Haryana's initiative, he added, "So Haryana is giving, and Haryana has won our hearts. Others also, from Delhi, we've told everyone to make it better."

Singh said greater government support and subsidies for the industry could translate into more employment opportunities.

"The more you support the film industry, the more subsidy you give, the more employment people will get. There are crores of people working in the film industry," he said. (ANI)

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

Dolly Parton, global icon and humanitarian, dies peacefully at 80

Asianet News Central — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 22:31:31 +0530

Country music legend Dolly Parton was remembered as a "global icon and humanitarian" in a heartfelt obituary shared by Woodlawn Memorial Park and Mausoleum, following her death at the age of 80, according to Page Six. The obituary described Parton as a beloved singer, songwriter, philanthropist, actress, playwright and author, and said the country music icon "died peacefully" on August 25 in Nashville, Tennessee.

"A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family," the obituary read. It further praised the "9 to 5" singer for inspiring "multiple generations of artists and fans" through her music and her "unwavering commitment" to making the world a better place. The statement was the same message that a representative for Parton had earlier shared with Page Six.

Private Funeral Held

Meanwhile, Parton's loved ones gathered at her Nashville burial site on Friday, days after her death. Photos showed some of her closest relatives, including her nephew and longtime head of security, Bryan Seaver, arriving at the cemetery and appearing sombre. At the time of publication, it was unclear whether the funeral had taken place on Friday morning. Parton's representative had previously said that a "small and private service" would be held for her immediate family, in keeping with the musician's wishes, according to Page Six. Parton was also set to be laid to rest beside her husband of 58 years, Carl Dean, who died in March at the age of 82.

Official Announcement of Passing

The news of Parton's death was announced by Seaver in a video shared on social media on August 25. "I am representing the Parton and Owens family today, announcing the passing of my Aunt Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean. Sister, sis, Aunt Granny to one generation and Gigi to the next," Seaver said.

"This video announcement is something Dolly asked of me years ago before I fully absorbed it as a future reality. As her head of security for more than two decades, a role my father Larry held before me, I have imagined the heaviness of this moment but haven't truly felt it until now," he added.

Cause of Death Confirmed

Parton's representatives later confirmed to Page Six that she had died following a "brief battle" with cancer. "After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life [Tuesday] at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones," the statement said, according to Page Six.

The statement also highlighted Parton's enduring legacy of compassion and generosity. "Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched. Her unmatched generosity reached the lives of countless people whom she would never meet, yet she was always there to offer a helping hand," it added, according to Page Six.

An Enduring Legacy

Parton, whose decades-long career made her one of country music's most recognisable figures, leaves behind a legacy spanning music, film, philanthropy and literature. (ANI)

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

Kartik Aaryan's 'Captain India' to begin filming in London this Sept

Asianet News Central — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 21:31:32 +0530

Bollywood actor Kartik Aaryan's upcoming film 'Captain India' is all set to go on the floors in London this September, with the shoot expected to wrap by the end of October, reported Variety. Directed by Shimit Amin, best known for his work in Shah Rukh Khan starrer 'Chak De! India', the film will be produced by T-Series' Bhushan Kumar and Baweja Studios, alongside Dopamine Studios. SB Films will be handling the production. As per the report, 'Captain India' will follow India's real-life evacuation of citizens from a war-torn country. With a screenplay from Nash Vazifdar, Sanchit Gupta, and Priyadarshee Shrivastava, the film is likely to have an ensemble cast joining Kartik Aaryan.

Notably, a film titled 'Captain India' was first announced in 2021, with Hansal Mehta then attached to direct it for RSVP's Ronnie Screwvala and Baweja Studios' Harman Baweja, who also wrote that version of the script. Kartik Aaryan will be seen playing a pilot involved in the rescue mission. The film is set to hit theatres on August 13, 2027, timed with the Independence Day weekend.

Kartik Aaryan's Health and Recovery

Meanwhile, production on 'Captain India' will begin on September 1. Kartik Aaryan is currently recovering after undergoing knee surgery following an injury on the sets of filmmaker Kabir Khan's upcoming sports drama. The actor suffered the injury while shooting an action sequence for the film. He later underwent surgery at a Mumbai hospital and is now recovering at home.

"Kartik Aaryan sustained a knee injury while performing an action sequence on the set of his film. His surgery was completed successfully, and he is now back home, resting and recovering. He will be back on set soon," his spokesperson said.

Recent National Award Win

Kartik recently won the Best Actor in a Leading Role award at the 72nd National Film Awards (announced on July 18, 2026) for his portrayal of India's first Paralympic Gold Medalist Murlikant Petkar in the biographical sports drama Chandu Champion, directed by Kabir Khan. (ANI)

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

Pune's Ganeshotsav: Kids paint eco-friendly Bappa idols in workshops

Asianet News Central — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 21:31:10 +0530

As Ganeshotsav draws closer, children in Pune are putting down their phones and picking up paintbrushes to create their own colourful Bappa idols. Ganeshotsav will begin on September 14 and conclude on September 25 with Anant Chaturdashi.

A Creative Ganeshotsav for Children

The initiative, themed "Paint, Create, Celebrate Bappa", is giving children between the ages of 6 and 15 an opportunity to celebrate the festival through creativity while also encouraging the use of eco-friendly idols. The Surendra Pathare Foundation organised 3D Ganpati painting workshops, which are being conducted across residential societies in areas including Kharadi, Viman Nagar, Wagholi and Vadgaon Sheri, bringing the activity closer to children and their families.

Fostering Creativity and Cultural Connection

Speaking about the initiative, organiser Surendra Pathare said the foundation started the drive around four to five years ago with the aim of involving children more actively in Ganeshotsav and giving them a platform to express their creativity. "Actually, we started this drive four, five years back to get children involved in the Ganesh Utsav. To create them a platform to show their creativity," Pathare told ANI.

He added that while children often participate in decorating their homes during the festival, not every child gets an opportunity to engage in creative activities associated with Ganeshotsav. "We came up with that thought process that we should create a platform where children are coming, exploring their ideas, their creativity and getting merged with the culture that is very popularly followed here in Pune," he said.

Pathare said around 2,500 to 3,000 children have registered for the workshops being conducted, with the programme scheduled over weekends due to school examinations. He also stressed the importance of encouraging eco-friendly celebrations and said the foundation continues to promote awareness among parents and children about environmentally responsible Ganeshotsav celebrations.

Eco-Friendly Idols and Wider Reach

Aishwarya Pathare, organiser of the initiative, said the foundation had focused on idol-making during the previous five years, but decided to introduce pre-made eco-friendly idols this year after observing that younger children sometimes struggled to make the sculptures themselves. "Small kids, it is very difficult for them to make the sculpture. Sometimes they are not able to make the Ganpati. Then they feel bad that my Ganpati Bappa is not made," Aishwarya said.

"So, this time I thought that we would get pre-made eco-friendly Ganeshas and get them to every society," she added. Unlike earlier editions, when children gathered at a single venue, the foundation has created clusters within residential societies this year. The workshops are being conducted across more than 120 societies over three weekends.

According to the organisers, around 3,000 students have registered for the initiative, with more than 1,000 children already having participated. Aishwarya said the initiative is also helping children spend several hours away from digital screens while engaging directly with the festival. "The children are coming here, painting with so much excitement with their friends, they are away from the digital screen and actually enjoying what this festival is meant for, enjoying and creating their Bappa their way," she said.

The foundation is also facilitating immersion arrangements at societies, allowing families to carry out the visarjan of the eco-friendly idols after the festival.

A Joyful Experience for Participants

For the young participants, the experience is as much about creativity as it is about celebrating Bappa. Participant Samar said he enjoyed choosing his own colours and mixing them while painting his idol. "I selected this colour on my own, and I was painting, and I mixed the colour, and I painted it, and I like painting this so much," he said.

Another young participant, Chivesh Shahani, described the experience as different from simply drawing and colouring a Ganpati on paper. "My experience was very nice because they taught story by story, step by step. And also if you wanted anything, they would give you the answer or give whatever you wanted," he said. He said he planned to take his painted Bappa home and keep it near his family's temple.

Another young participant, Sirisha, said the workshop provided children with Ganpati idols, bright colours and volunteers to guide them through the activity. "I really thank this foundation for helping people and for giving these Ganpati murtis," she said. She said she chose bright colours for her idol because of the festive atmosphere associated with Ganeshotsav and plans to worship the Bappa at home before the immersion.

Praise from Parents

For parents, the initiative has also become an opportunity to reconnect children with the cultural significance of the festival. Kanishka Shahani, a parent and resident of Viman Nagar, praised the organisation of the workshop and said she was happy to see her son independently painting his idol. "It was a very, very, very exciting day for me. I was a little sceptical because it is a new society, but it is so well organised, so beautifully done," she said.

The initiative combines art, community participation and environmental awareness, while giving Pune's children a more hands-on way to experience Ganeshotsav, one that takes them away from screens and closer to the traditions and creativity associated with the festival. (ANI)

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

Bigg Boss Fame Spandana Somanna Gifts Brother Brand-New Hyundai Venue On Raksha Bandhan

Asianet Newsable English — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 21:12:14 +0530

Bigg Boss fame Spandana Somanna surprised her brother Chintu with a brand-new Hyundai Venue on Raksha Bandhan. The actress also shared an emotional note recalling their childhood memories and celebrating their special sibling bond.

Television actress and Bigg Boss fame Spandana Somanna celebrated Raksha Bandhan in a special way this year. She caught everyone's attention by tying a rakhi to her beloved brother, ‘Chintu’, and surprising him with a brand-new Hyundai Venue as a Raksha Bandhan gift.

The heartwarming gesture highlighted the special bond between the actress and her brother and caught the attention of her fans and followers.

Spandana shared joyful moments from her brother's car-gifting ceremony on Instagram and also penned an emotional note recalling their childhood memories.

She expressed her love for her brother and reflected on the special bond they have shared since childhood.

The actress, who shared the car-gifting moment, said her brother deserved the special gift.

Expressing her happiness and pride, she wrote, “My brother definitely deserved this gift. I am so proud and happy to gift you a car, Chintu. I still remember all the little things you’ve gifted me over the years — your drawings, letters, those tiny earrings, and so many beautiful memories.”

Continuing her emotional note, Spandana expressed her love for her brother, writing, “From fighting over the smallest things to sharing everything, and now seeing you get your first car… life really came a full circle. I want you to be my brother in every lifetime. So proud of the person you’ve become today, and I’ll always be there for you, no matter what. I love you, my first baby! Your Chinnu Akka will always have your back. Happy Rakshabandhan, Chintu!”

Spandana Somanna, who became a household name among Kannada television audiences through her role in the popular serial ‘Karimani’ on Colors Kannada, has built a strong fan base with her endearing performances.

She later gained further recognition after participating as a contestant on the reality show ‘Bigg Boss Kannada’.

Now, netizens and television celebrities have taken to social media to appreciate the special gesture of love between Spandana and her brother after she surprised him with a brand-new car on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Spandana Somanna (@spandana___somanna)

Recently, Spandana Somanna shared two photos of herself happily walking hand in hand with a mystery man against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

She shared the pictures on social media with the caption, “Plot Twist: Paris was not the Main Character!”

The caption suggests that Paris was not the main attraction in the pictures, with someone else taking centre stage. The post has sparked speculation among fans that the actress may have introduced her boyfriend through the photos.

However, Spandana has not revealed the identity of the man accompanying her. She has only shared a picture showing him from behind, leaving fans curious about the person who appears to have a special place in her life.

Nagarjuna's 100th film 'King100' first glimpse out on his birthday

Asianet News Central — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 20:01:04 +0530

The makers of Nagarjuna Akkineni's upcoming 100th film, officially titled 'King100', have unveiled its first glimpse, coinciding with the actor's birthday. Kept largely under wraps through its year-long production, the film has remained out of the spotlight until now. This first glimpse delivers a bold, powerful statement - The King reigns.

The over one-and-a-half-minute glimpse introduces Nagarjuna Akkineni in a stylish, larger-than-life avatar, offering audiences their first look at his character and the world of the film.

ONE KING ∞ SWAG LONG LIVE THE KING ❤️#KING100 Glimpse OUT NOW ▶️https://t.co/VtGabd4yn8 IN CINEMAS DECEMBER 24th, 2026.#LongLiveTheKing #HBDKingNagarjuna King @iamnagarjuna @Rakarthik_dir @ThisIsDSP @rajamahadhevan @NavinNooli @ArtSathees @CVRao74… pic.twitter.com/unuOIEqX9D — Annapurna Studios (@AnnapurnaStdios) August 29, 2026

Glimpse Reveals Nagarjuna's Larger-Than-Life Character

The glimpse opens with Nagarjuna's character sharing his perspective on the world: "There are two types of people in this world. Those who have money and those who don't. When I had no money, they called me a loser. When I had money, they called me a King. But this identity is more powerful than money. To uphold this identity, I have to keep running." It offers a sharp glimpse into his rise to power, his mindset, and the relentless drive of maintaining his identity as The King.

Make way for the KING He is here to REIGN with all his STYLE, SWAG & CHARISMA #KING100 Birthday Glimpse OUT NOW ▶️https://t.co/VtGabd40xA#LongLiveTheKing #HBDKingNagarjuna King @iamnagarjuna @Rakarthik_dir @ThisIsDSP @rajamahadhevan @NavinNooli @ArtSathees… pic.twitter.com/Kwvmn4SQfj — Annapurna Studios (@AnnapurnaStdios) August 29, 2026

Nagarjuna's striking gold look further accentuates his larger-than-life persona, while the energetic and impactful music by Devi Sri Prasad adds intensity to the glimpse.

'King100' Release Date and Crew

The glimpse concludes with the reveal of the King100 title, locking in its official December release date. Closing on the celebratory message "Long Live The King," the glimpse delivers a fitting birthday tribute to Nagarjuna Akkineni and his monumental 100th film milestone.

'King100' is written and directed by R.A. Karthik and produced by Annapurna Studios. The film features music by Devi Sri Prasad, cinematography by Raja Mahadhevan, production design by Sathees Kumar N, and editing by Navin Nooli. The film will hit theatres on December 24, 2026. (ANI)

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

Kuku Kohli prayer meet: Vicky-Katrina, Asha Parekh pay respects

Asianet News Central — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 20:01:00 +0530

Veteran filmmaker Kuku Kohli passed away at the age of 77 after suffering a heart attack at Mumbai's Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital on August 25. A prayer meet was held in Mumbai on Saturday in remembrance of the late filmmaker. His wife, veteran actress Aruna Irani, was seen getting emotional as she arrived at the gathering, while Bollywood couple Vicky Kaushal and Katrina Kaif, along with veteran actress Asha Parekh, Poonam Dhillon and Mumtaz, also arrived to offer their condolences.

Bollywood Celebs Attend Prayer Meet

Katrina shares a close bond with the late filmmaker Kuku Kohli's family, especially due to her friendship with his daughter, Karishma Kohli The prayer meet was held at Celebration Sports Club in Lokhandwala Complex, Mumbai.

Veteran actors Anupam Kher, Anil Kapoor, Rajpal Yadav, Jackie Shroff, Kiran Kumar, filmmaker Ashoke Pandit, Chunky Panday, and Boney Kapoor were among the other film personalities who attended the gathering.

Filmmaker Anees Bazmee also arrived at the prayer meet, along with lyricist Sameer Anjaan and music composer Roopkumar Rathod.

Actor Sunny Kaushal was also spotted arriving at the venue to pay his respects to the late filmmaker. Vihaan Samat was seen arriving at the prayer meet as members of the film fraternity came together to remember Kuku Kohli. Poonam Sinha and comedian Ahsaan Qureshi were also spotted at the gathering, along with several other celebrities from the film industry.

Kuku Kohli's Film Legacy

Kohli made his directorial debut with 'Phool Aur Kaante', which also featured Madhoo, Amrish Puri, Aruna Irani and Jagdeep. The film's success launched Ajay Devgn's acting career. He went on to direct films including 'Suhaag' in 1994, starring Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, Karisma Kapoor and Nagma. His other directorial projects included 'Haqeeqat', 'Zulmi', 'Anari No. 1' and 'Yeh Dil Aashiqanaa'.

Kohli's last directorial venture was 'Woh Tera Naam Tha', which was released in 2004. He is survived by his wife Aruna Irani and two daughters, Pooja and Karishma, from his first marriage to Rita Kohli. (ANI)

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

Actress Sreekala Sasidharan Opens Up About Depression After Mothers Death: 'I Had Everything, But...'

Asianet Newsable English — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 19:35:35 +0530

Sreekala Sasidharan is a favourite star for anyone who watches serials. But more than Sreekala, fans know her as Sophie. Even today, fans remember her as the innocent Sophie from the Asianet serial 'Ente Manasaputhri'. Besides 'Ente Manasaputhri', she has also acted in serials like 'Kayamkulam Kochunni', 'Amma Manassu', and 'Valsalyam', and in the Malayalam film 'Ennittum'. In a new interview, Sreekala spoke about going through a phase of depression.

"It was after my mother's passing that I fell into that state of depression. After she died, my son and I became completely isolated in our Thiruvananthapuram home. This was when I was acting in the serial 'Swami Ayyappan'. The shooting was only for a few days a month. On those days, my husband Vipin's parents had to come from Kannur to look after my son. I felt bad troubling them at their age, so I started taking my son to the location with me. I used to give my dates based on his school holidays. On days when there was no shooting, I would be completely alone at home after my son went to school. That loneliness really started to haunt me," she said.

"I would feel like crying for no reason at all. Many times, I even thought, 'What's the point of living without my mother?' I couldn't open up to anyone else the way I could with my mom. When she was suddenly gone, it felt like a part of me was paralysed. I held on only for the sake of my son and Vipin. I had all the comforts around me, but there was this emptiness, a feeling that I had nothing. I couldn't explain it to anyone. Finally, when I was completely drained mentally, I told Vipin everything. That's when I took a break from acting," Sreekala said in an interview with Vanitha.

Akanksha Chamola Says Gaurav Khanna Found Her Bisexuality ‘Very Hot’ Before Marriage: ‘I’ll Never Cheat on My Husband’

Asianet Newsable English — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 19:32:07 +0530

Akanksha Chamola turned out to be one of the most-talked-about contestants in Lock Upp: Season 2. She not only revealed that her marriage was falling apart with Gaurav Khanna but also eventually opened up about her bisexuality when her secrets were spilled by another contestant, Shreya Kalra. Now, she has revealed that her estranged husband Gaurav found her bisexuality ‘hot’. She had revealed on the show that she is bisexual and had a relationship with women before marriage.

Akanksha On Her Sexuality and Marriage

Talking to Mid-Day, Akanksha revealed that Gaurav knew about her sexuality before marriage and said, "I have very specifically mentioned that I was bisexual before I got married. My husband accepted that because he did find it to be a very hot thing. Guys find it very hot. I don't know why people can't accept that. The majority of men find it to be very hot."

She added, "I did not pull myself out of it. But I chose, as I said, I will not cheat on my husband. I have chosen to be with this one person. I will stick to that one person. And then after that, when I'm saying that I've reached a point where I'm asexual, there are many heterosexual females who turn asexual after a point of time. So what is a big deal when I'm saying that I was bisexual, then I got married, now I'm asexual?"

About Gaurav Khanna and Akanksha Chamola

Akanksha and Gaurav reportedly fell in love while shooting for a show. They tied the knot of love and togetherness on November 24, 2016, in a lavish three-day wedding celebration in Gaurav’s hometown, Kanpur. The wedding was attended by family, friends, and several television industry colleagues.

Drishyam The Conclusion: Ajay Devgn, Shriya Saran character posters out

Asianet News Central — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 19:30:56 +0530

The makers of Ajay Devgn starrer 'Drishyam The Conclusion' has unveiled brand new character posters, bringing audiences face to face with the key players who will shape the final chapter. At the centre of it all is Ajay Devgn as Vijay Salgaonkar, reprising one of his most iconic roles, alongside Shriya Saran as Nandini Salgaonkar.

The family that has stood together through every investigation and every question now finds itself under scrutiny once again.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Star Studio18 (@starstudio18)

Meet the Cast of 'Drishyam The Conclusion'

Tabu returns as Meera Deshmukh, whose relentless pursuit of justice now takes a deeply personal turn as she seeks revenge for the loss of her son, while Rajat Kapoor returns as Mahesh Deshmukh, a father still carrying the weight of a loss that changed his family forever.

Expanding the world of 'Drishyam' further, Jaideep Ahlawat makes his entry into the franchise as Rajveer Singh Tomar - SP, Crime Branch, bringing a formidable new presence into Vijay Salgaonkar's story. Prakash Raj also joins as Lawyer Indrajith Shetty, adding another powerful dimension to the forces surrounding Vijay and his family.

Also, returning to the 'Drishyam' world are Kamlesh Sawant, Ishita Dutta, and Mrunal Jadhav.

The Final Chapter's Story and Direction

Writer and director Abhishek Pathak is all set to take 'Drishyam The Conclusion' forward, where the second part ends with a fresh story and an entirely new screenplay, building towards a grand finale that brings the characters, conflicts and unanswered questions of the franchise together.

A teaser which was previously released had already given fans a glimpse into Vijay's state of mind. In the teaser, Ajay's character spoke about how people have given him different names over the years but said that his family remains his truth and his right.

Release Date and Production Details

Presented by Star Studio18, the Panorama Studios production is directed by Abhishek Pathak and written by Abhishek Pathak, Aamil Keeyan Khan and Parveez Shaikh. Produced by Alok Jain, Ajit Andhare, Kumar Mangat Pathak and Abhishek Pathak, 'Drishyam The Conclusion' is all set to release theatrically on October 2, 2026.

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

Ranbir Kapoor shows off rakhis on video call with sister Riddhima

Asianet News Central — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 19:00:50 +0530

Kapoor Family's Raksha Bandhan Celebration

Actor Neetu Kapoor gave fans a glimpse of a heartwarming Raksha Bandhan moment as she shared a picture of a video call between her son Ranbir Kapoor, daughter Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, and their cousin Nitasha Nanda. In the photo, Ranbir proudly showed off the rakhis sent to him by his sister Riddhima Kapoor Sahni and cousin Nitasha, offering a peek into the Kapoor family's festive celebrations. Notably, Nitasha Nanda is the daughter of Ritu and Rajan Nanda.

Earlier on Friday, Riddhima Kapoor marked the festivities of Raksha Bandhan by sharing a childhood picture with her brother Ranbir Kapoor and their mother, Neetu Kapoor. Riddhima shared a throwback family picture on her Instagram Stories, giving fans a glimpse of the siblings from their growing-up years. In the photograph, young Riddhima and Ranbir can be seen posing with Neetu Kapoor. Ranbir looked adorable in a blue T-shirt and jeans, while Riddhima also smiled for the camera. Sharing the picture, Riddhima wished her brother with a short message, writing, "Happy Rakhi Rans. Love you," along with red heart emojis.

Riddhima and Ranbir are the children of late actor Rishi Kapoor and Neetu Kapoor. The siblings have often spoken about their close bond over the years. Meanwhile, several Bollywood celebrities also took to social media to celebrate Raksha Bandhan and share moments with their siblings.

Ranbir Kapoor's Upcoming Projects

On the work front for Ranbir Kapoor, he will be next seen in Nitesh Tiwari's 'Ramayana' as Lord Rama. The film's trailer has been already unveiled, bringing the introduction of Yash as Ravana. He is seen emerging from the shadows before entering his grand palace and declaring his rule over the three worlds. As darkness spreads, Lord Vishnu is reborn on Earth as Prince Rama. Ranbir Kapoor appears as Lord Rama, while Arun Govil plays King Dasharatha, introducing Rama to the people of Ayodhya.

'Ramayana: Part 1' is scheduled to release in theatres during Diwali 2026, while 'Ramayana: Part 2' is expected to arrive during Diwali 2027.

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

Vishal Mishra announces two special concerts for flood-hit Nepal, Assam

Asianet News Central — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 18:00:59 +0530

Singer Vishal Mishra has announced plans to perform two special concerts in support of people affected by floods in Nepal and Assam. Sharing his concerns about the devastating flood conditions, Mishra said his "heart is heavy".

Concerts for a Cause

In a social media post, the singer said that he has decided to organise a concert in Nepal and another in Assam, promising the proceeds towards flood relief. "My heart is heavy seeing what's happening. So I have made a decision. I will perform a concert in #Nepal and a concert in #Assam. Every single penny will go towards flood relief and the people affected. I give you my word," Vishal Mishra wrote. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vishal Mishra (@vishalmishraofficial)

Further in his caption, Mishra added, "Stay strong, will do whatever I can individually, Har Har Mahadev." Many took to the comment section and lauded the singer's efforts for the flood-affected people. Singer Badshah commented, "Bhai with you on this."

The announcement comes as a gesture of solidarity with flood-affected communities in both regions. While details regarding the dates, venues and arrangements for the concerts have not yet been announced, the initiative has put the focus on the urgent need for support for communities affected by flooding.

India Monitors Situation, Offers Assistance

Meanwhile, India has been closely monitoring the flood situation in Nepal and extending all possible assistance following the massive flood-related tragedy in the neighbouring country, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh said on Saturday.

"On the day this tragic incident occurred, our embassy there immediately launched a 24-hour helpline. They provided a number so we could keep a close watch on the situation, monitor developments, and identify exactly where assistance was needed," Singh said.

Singh said India was extending every possible form of assistance and cooperation in accordance with the guidance of the Nepalese government. India has been coordinating relief and rescue efforts in response to the disaster in Nepal, while authorities continue to monitor the situation and the condition of Indian nationals affected by the floods.

Scale of Devastation in Nepal and Assam

Meanwhile, the death toll in the Bhotekoshi flood disaster in Nepal has reached 626, while 2,426 people remain missing, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA).

On the other hand, several parts of Assam continue to deal with the aftermath of the floods, which have caused widespread damage to residential areas, farmland and livestock. (ANI)

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

Ranveer Singh Surpasses Vijay Thalapathy, Salman Khan and Akshay Kumar in India’s Biggest Hero Poll

Shreya Tinkhede — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 16:03:24 +0530

Ranveer Singh is one of the most loved and celebrated stars who makes millions of hearts beat with his charming presence, starry aura, and undying love for his craft. He is the real Dhurandhar, and we are not saying it alone. Yes, you read that right. Ranveer has now added another feather to his cap as he has emerged as India's No 2 hero in the latest India Today Mood of the Nation Poll. This achievement of his places him directly behind Amitabh Bachchan, which is a significant milestone for his career.

Ranveer Singh on No.2

As per the report, the poll puts Amitabh Bachchan at No. 1 with 14.7%, followed by Ranveer Singh at 9.5%. Vijay Thalapathy stands at 8.5%, while Akshay Kumar and Salman Khan feature at 7.4% and 6.8%, respectively. The results underline the growing popularity and influence Ranveer commands among audiences across the country.

All Thanks To Dhurandhar!

He obviously has given his career's best performances in the past, but with two films - Dhurandhar and Dhurandhar: The Revenge it has put him on the map like no other. Yes, Dhurandhar has worked its magic, and there's no denying that. His hard work has paid off, and his fans are loving that for him. The result also makes the “Asli Dhurandhar of Indian Cinema” tag more uplifting for him. Having conquered the box office and won audiences over with the Dhurandhar franchise, Ranveer is now making his mark in audience polls as well.

On The Work Front

Ranveer Singh's main upcoming movie is Pralay, a post-apocalyptic zombie survival thriller directed by Jai Mehta.

Alia Bhatt Embraces Fine Lines, Freckles in NEW No-Makeup Moment, Here’s How to Care for Your Skin in Your 30s

Shreya Tinkhede — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 14:38:34 +0530

Woohoo, Alia Bhatt has posted a fresh no-makeup selfie! And it needs your attention: calling this Saturday morning a very ‘smiley’ one, Alia's selfie will bring a smile to your face. Well, there's no denying that she is one of the most loved and celebrated stars who is not only known for her filmography but also for her candid nature, from her witty remarks to funny anecdotes, which make Alia a relatable star for this generation.

Alia, Oh Alia!

Yes, you read that right. She is a star, and she knows it well. Apart from being a mother, she is also a lady in her 30s who can be your one-stop inspiration to learn how to take care of your skin just like hers, so we all can drop such no-makeup selfies without any hesitation. Well, for now, let's take a look at what Alia posted!

Take a look at Alia's post

How Can you Take Care of Skin If You are In 30s

Cleanser: Wash your face with a mild, pH-balanced cleanser to remove dirt without stripping natural oils.
Antioxidant Serum: Apply a Vitamin C serum to shield your skin from free radical damage and brighten dark spots.
Moisturizer: Use a lightweight cream with ceramides or hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture.
Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning to prevent fine lines and sun spots.
Use a good eye cream, and retinol at night.
Do not forget to moisturise your lips, arms, elbows and cuticles.
Add on a good body oil to make that skin supple.

On The Work Front

Alia will be next seen in Tumbbad 2 and Love and War!

Akshara Singh marks birthday with kids, calls it 'unconditional love'

Asianet News Central — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 14:31:30 +0530

What better way to spend a birthday than surrounded by people who bring you unconditional joy? Actor Akshara Singh chose to keep her special day simple as she celebrated her birthday with kids at a Jain Trust in Mira Bhayandar.

The actress, who is often busy with shoots, said she prefers spending her birthdays with kids whenever she gets the chance.

Finding 'Unconditional Love'

Talking about why she chose to celebrate the day with them, Akshara said she finds a special kind of happiness in their company. "I prefer to celebrate birthdays with my kids. And whenever I get time, because we are often shooting, we are always busy," she told ANI. "But whenever I want to spend a peaceful time, I come with these kids. I feel that the unconditional love that we get here, you won't get it anywhere else in the world. So I am so blessed and thankful that I got an opportunity to come here today," she added.

For Akshara, spending her birthday with the kids was more than just a celebration. She said she felt lucky to have been given the opportunity to be with them on her special day. "And maybe God gave me this opportunity that I was chosen and brought here and I am spending my birthday with them. There is nothing bigger than this for me. I have done this before too, whenever I got the opportunity," the actress said.

A Sombre Reflection

Akshara also spoke about how the recent devastating flash floods in Nepal affected her mood around her birthday. She said the situation made her question whether she wanted to celebrate with the usual birthday activities. "And it is a lot of fun. And now, naturally, when I hear about the incident in Nepal, somewhere, I was also very sad about it. And I was thinking, what is this, celebrating a birthday, cutting a cake, having fun, I didn't feel like doing all this," she said.

Instead, the actress decided to spend time with the children and return to work after getting some positivity from them. "So I was thinking, let's go and meet the kids, meet them, talk to them, and get that unconditional love and get back on the set," Akshara added.

On The Professional Front

Akshara is a well-known name in the Bhojpuri film industry and has appeared in films including Tabadala, Sarkar Raj and Satya. She has also stepped into Hindi cinema with Welcome to the Jungle. The actress also featured alongside Akshay Kumar in the Hindi-Bhojpuri fusion track "Ghis Ghis Ghis". Her father, Indrajeet Singh, had earlier spoken emotionally at a Mumbai screening about her long-time dream of making it to Bollywood. (ANI)

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

Big B's Raksha Bandhan message includes prayers for Nepal flood victims

Asianet News Central — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 14:30:28 +0530

Amitabh Bachchan prays for Nepal flood victims

Amitabh Bachchan's Raksha Bandhan message for his fans also carried prayers for those affected by the devastating floods in Nepal. The megastar, who shared a picture of his wrist covered with colourful rakhis in his latest blog, spoke about the bond between brothers and sisters before speaking about the situation in Nepal.

Sharing his thoughts on Raksha Bandhan, the actor wrote, "May this bond of love, affection and care live eternally - the dedication of the relation between a sister and a brother, never to be broken or forgotten...its sacred thread tied to the wrist is the symbol of perpetuity in the relationship... its auspicious presence fortifies its reason." Bachchan then spoke about the flood situation in Nepal and said the visuals coming from the affected areas were "unbearable" for him to watch. He also offered prayers for those who have lost their lives or have been affected by the disaster. "On a more serious note, the devastation of the floods in Nepal is unbearable to watch... the fury of nature can never be battled with... its respect needs the presence of the divine... we pray... for that in itself is beyond all... Affection and care," he wrote.

Nepal flood devastation: Death toll rises to 626

According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), the death toll in the Bhote Koshi flood-related disaster in Nepal has reached 626, while 2,426 people are still missing.

District-wise casualty breakdown

As per the latest search, rescue and relief update issued by the NDRRMA at 10 am on August 29, Chitwan reported the highest number of deaths, with 233 bodies, including human remains, recovered from the area. Nawalparasi East reported 158 deaths, followed by Nuwakot with 51, Gorkha with 48, Nawalparasi West with 47, Dhading with 45, Tanahun with 31 and Rasua with 13. Other affected areas also reported deaths.

Security personnel among missing

The authority said that 2,426 people remained missing. The list includes 27 Nepal Police personnel, 45 Nepal Army personnel, 13 Armed Police Force personnel, 15 Customs Office personnel and four Immigration Office personnel. (ANI)

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

Sukesh Chandrasekhar’s EXPLOSIVE Claims: Says Nora Fatehi ‘Begged’ Him to Leave Jacqueline Fernandez, ‘10 Calls a Day…’

Shreya Tinkhede — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 14:16:44 +0530

Sukesh Chandrasekhar has done it again. The jailed conman reportedly dropped a bombshell on actor-dancer Nora Fatehi, alleging in a newly surfaced letter that she "begged" him to leave Jacqueline Fernandez and made "up to 10 calls a day" to him. These stunning assertions emerged just days after Fatehi publicly described the emotional trauma her association with Chandrasekhar caused in the ongoing Rs 200 crore money laundering case. It throws Nora Fatehi right back into the center of the high-profile investigation.

This handwritten letter, which Chandrasekhar allegedly penned, quickly grabbed eyeballs online. It refocused attention squarely on the controversial dynamics between the three public figures. Authorities have confirmed the letter's authenticity. But Chandrasekhar's detailed claims about Nora Fatehi's alleged actions and demands? They remain unverified.

Fatehi's Alleged Role: What Sukesh Claims

"You used to bombard my phone with up to 10 calls a day begging me to leave Jacqueline and brainwashing me to fully finance your lifestyle." That is the explosive claim from Chandrasekhar's alleged letter. It details a litany of accusations. Sukesh alleges Nora Fatehi felt jealous of his relationship with Jacqueline Fernandez. He says Fatehi contacted him constantly. She pressured him to dump Fernandez. She also wanted him to fund her lavish lifestyle. These statements directly implicate Nora Fatehi. They show her actively seeking financial and personal favors from the conman.

But personal appeals were not all. Chandrasekhar's letter reportedly claims he gave Nora Fatehi crores of rupees. This money was for a house purchase in Casablanca, Morocco. The letter also mentions alleged WhatsApp exchanges. These concerned luxury items: Birkin bags, BMWs, a Range Rover. Chandrasekhar now challenges Fatehi to release their purported conversations from that time. These alleged financial demands and luxury assets paint a clear picture. Nora Fatehi allegedly sought and received large material gains from the conman.

Fatehi's Alleged Victim Card — And Sukesh's Sharp Reply

Just days before, Nora Fatehi spoke on a podcast. She described "trauma" and career setbacks. These stemmed from her link to the conman. Fatehi has always maintained her innocence in the money laundering case. She calls herself a witness—a victim of circumstances. Her story always depicts her as unwittingly drawn into Chandrasekhar's schemes. She portrays herself as a professional who suffered huge emotional damage. All because of unsolicited attention and allegations.

"Do not provoke me." That is Sukesh Chandrasekhar's blunt warning to Nora Fatehi. In his alleged letter, he accused her directly of "pathetic drama" and shedding "crocodile tears." This came right after her emotional podcast appearance. Chandrasekhar's retort targets Fatehi's credibility. It attacks her victimhood narrative. He also reportedly threatened to release more "proof" of her involvement. He implied that PR efforts would not shield her if he chose to speak.

What Now For Nora Fatehi?

This latest salvo from Chandrasekhar throws Nora Fatehi firmly back into the public and legal spotlight. She may have to offer fresh explanations. These must counter the detailed allegations in the letter. The ongoing Rs 200 crore money laundering case keeps all parties—especially Nora Fatehi—under the microscope. We expect more developments. Investigators will probe these conflicting stories.

UP Dy CM hits back at SP over singer Ankit Baliyan's murder in Shamli

Asianet News Central — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 13:31:15 +0530

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak on Saturday hit back at the Samajwadi Party over its criticism of the state government following the murder of Haryanvi singer and actor Ankit Baliyan in Shamli. Baliyan was shot dead in Shamli district after he stepped out of a gym. According to police, he was attacked by three to four men. The incident came to light after a call was made to Dial 112, following which police teams reached the spot.

Pathak Accuses SP of Politicising Murder

Speaking to the media, Pathak said the government had taken the murder "very seriously" and assured that strict action would be taken against those involved in the killing. The Deputy Chief Minister also accused the Samajwadi Party of attempting to "politicise" such incidents and said maintaining law and order remained the government's priority. "The Samajwadi Party constantly attempts to politicise such incidents. Our commitment is towards maintaining law and order in Uttar Pradesh. The government has taken this matter also very seriously. No criminal will be spared; strict action will be taken. Samajwadi Party should not politicize such matters," he said while speaking to the media.

Akhilesh Yadav Questions Law and Order

Earlier, Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav had raised questions over the law and order situation in Uttar Pradesh following Baliyan's killing. In a post on X, the former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister condemned the singer's death and referred to the killing as "merciless". He also claimed that the incident had caused anger and concern among members of the Jat community in the state.

Police Investigation Underway

Meanwhile, Shamli Superintendent of Police NP Singh said the police had started an investigation into the killing and were looking at all possible leads. "A call was received on Dial 112. Information was received that one Ankit Balyan, hailing from Banti Khera, had come to the gym. As soon as he left the gym, he was shot dead by 3-4 men. We have sent the body to the mortuary. Police teams are working..." Singh said.

Gogi Gang Angle Probed

Meanwhile, a social media post allegedly linked to the Gogi gang has claimed responsibility for Baliyan's murder. Police are checking the authenticity of the post and trying to determine whether it is connected to the killing. The viral post claims that Ankit had created a song featuring a similar theme to the killing of gangster Jitendra Gogi, who was shot dead inside Rohini Court. Shamli SP NP Singh said police are investigating the post and are working on the lead to determine whether there was an old dispute involving the Gogi gang and whether it could be linked to Baliyan's killing. The police investigation into Baliyan's murder is underway. (ANI)

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

Archana Puran Singh's sharp reply to Samay Raina's vlogging taunt

Asianet News Central — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 13:30:27 +0530

Archana Puran Singh Claps Back at Samay Raina Over Vlogging Dig

Veteran actor Archana Puran Singh had a quick response when comedian Samay Raina took a dig at her vlogging during the latest episode of 'India's Got Latent 2.' The episode featured Archana and Orhan Awatramani, aka Orry, on the panel. During the show, Samay took a dig at Archana while speaking to a contestant. A contestant named AR Tiwari performed Bhojpuri shayari on the show. When Samay asked him what he does apart from shayari, the contestant said that he also dances, vlogs and raps. Samay then took the opportunity to poke fun at Archana, who regularly shares family vlogs. He told the contestant, "Did you say vlog? Vlogging doesn't need talent". Archana was quick to respond to the comment. Giving Samay a sharp comeback, she said, "gaaliyan dena talent hai (abusing is talent)." Her reply left the audience cheering, while Samay did not have an immediate comeback.

Roast Continues with Family Jokes

However, Samay later continued to joke about Archana's well-known laugh during the episode. The comedian also brought Archana's family into his jokes. While introducing her, Samay recalled watching her as "Miss Braganza" in 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai' before taking a dig at her family vlogs. "I have seen your vlogs; neither does your husband work, nor do your 'nalle bete'. In her house, reverse patriarchy is happening. Only women are working," he said.

Archana's sons, Aaryamann and Ayushmaan Sethi, were seated in the front row and laughed at the joke. Archana then laughed and warned them about sitting there, telling them, "I warned you not to sit in front row, this is not how you get fame, this is how you get insulted."

Archana's Vlogging Journey

Archana started her YouTube vlogging journey with her family in December 2024. She launched the channel AAAP Ka Parivaar with her husband Parmeet Sethi and their sons, Aaryamann and Ayushmaan Sethi. (ANI)

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

Irumudi OTT Release: Netflix or JioHotstar or Prime Video? When and Where to Watch Ravi Teja's Film? Read HERE

Richa Barua — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 13:27:31 +0530

Ravi Teja's latest movie 'Irumudi', directed by Siva, is a big hit in theatres. Now, everyone's asking about its OTT release, and we have an update for you.

Ravi Teja's new film 'Irumudi', directed by Siva, is getting a great response from the audience. Mythri Movie Makers produced this film, which is Ravi Teja's 77th movie. Trade reports claim it has already crossed Rs. 135 crore worldwide in the first week. We'll have to wait for the production house to officially confirm these numbers for the final box office count.

The film's story revolves around a father-daughter bond. The makers say Ravi Teja is playing a role he has never done before. The first-look poster itself got everyone curious. It showed Ravi Teja in a traditional Ayyappa Swamy get-up, carrying a little girl.

Priya Bhavani Shankar plays the female lead in the movie. Baby Nakshatra is playing Ravi Teja's daughter. The film also features a strong supporting cast, including Sai Kumar, Ajay Ghosh, Ramesh Indira, and Swasika in key roles. The crew has said the story blends family drama with a spiritual theme.

There are reports that Netflix has bought the digital rights for 'Irumudi'. But, they haven't announced an official OTT release date yet. Usually, the digital release date is decided based on how long the film runs in theatres and the contract details. So, we need to wait for an official announcement from the makers or Netflix.

Bihar Family’s Dowry Setup Goes Viral With Household Goods, Utensils and Electronics, Sparks Outrage - WATCH

Shreya Tinkhede — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 13:05:09 +0530

A video depicting a Bihar family's wedding dowry arrangement, showcasing household items, utensils, and electronics, has recently gone viral online, igniting widespread criticism on social media. The incident, posted by india-happening-now on Instagram, highlights the persistent practice of dowry in India despite its illegality.

The viral visuals have prompted many social media users to question why dowry remains a part of wedding traditions across the country. Dowry, defined as any property or valuable security given in connection with a marriage, is explicitly prohibited by the Dowry Prohibition Act of 1961.

Legal Framework Against Dowry

The Dowry Prohibition Act, enacted on May 20, 1961, and coming into force on July 1, 1961, criminalizes both the giving and taking of dowry. This central Act extends throughout India, with amendments in 1984 and 1986 significantly strengthening its penalties and enforcement mechanisms. Violations can lead to imprisonment for not less than five years and a fine of at least ₹15,000 or the value of the dowry, whichever is greater. Demanding dowry is also punishable with imprisonment and fines.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by India Happening Now (@indiahappening.now)

Social Media Reactions and Awareness

The Instagram post from india-happening-now, which quickly accumulated 614 likes and 106 comments, showcases the public's divided opinions and the contentious nature of dowry practices even in the digital age. The account explicitly stated its objective was to inform the public about significant societal issues, not to exploit the creator’s identity or content.

It further clarified its use of the video fell under the fair dealing provisions of the Indian Copyright Act, 1957. These provisions specifically permit the use of copyrighted material for purposes such as reporting current events, teaching, research, and news, allowing for the dissemination of information vital for public discourse.

How Netizens Reacted

One user wrote, “Instead of spending a fortune on dowry it is always better to gift her a home and register it jointly in her name and yours, so that she always has a safe place to return to if she ever faces abuse, harassment, or humiliation from her husband or in-laws.” Another wrote, “So why alimony is legal,it should be illegal also why no law made for it like dowry system made.....” Another wrote, “Groom must be a Bhikari of 3rd grade.”

Krystle D'Souza praised by Karan Johar for smart game on 'Traitors'

Asianet News Central — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 13:01:17 +0530

Krystle D'Souza has very smartly made her way into the final six, and the actress has been so good at her gameplay that she has now even earned praise from host Karan Johar. Krystle, who is playing the role of a 'Traitor' on the show, has managed to stay away from major suspicion while making careful moves whenever the game demanded it. In the latest episode, Karan spoke about Krystle's approach to the game and praised the way she has handled the pressure. Talking about her strategy, he told her, "You have played very, very smart game."

Karan Johar Praises Krystle's 'Smart' Gameplay

Krystle has largely stayed away from trying to control every conversation in the house. Instead, she has watched where the suspicion is moving and stepped in when needed. This approach has helped her remain in the game as the number of contestants continues to fall one after another.

Her role as a 'Traitor' has also meant that she has had to keep her identity hidden while trying to send the 'Innocents' in the wrong direction. Krystle has managed to keep her reactions under control and has picked each of her moves extremely carefully.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by prime video IN (@primevideoin)

Strategic Deflection

In a recent episode of the show, during the Circle of Shaq, suspicion started moving towards her close friend Rhea Chakraborty. Krystle played it cleverly and also allowed the focus to remain on Rhea, which helped keep the attention away from her.

A Shift in Power

Her position in the game became even stronger after fellow Traitor Shahneel Gill was caught and eliminated by the 'Innocents'. With Krystle becoming the only remaining Traitor, she got the chance to recruit another contestant. She chose Rida Tharana, who had earlier been vocal about wanting to find out who the Traitors were.

The Finalists Revealed

Krystle D'Souza, Rida Tharana, Mallika Sherawat and Shalini Passi are among the six contestants who have made it to the finale of 'The Traitors Season 2.' (ANI)

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

Neru to Abraham Ozler: 5 Malayalam Crime Thrillers on JioHotstar Packed With Twists

Richa Barua — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 12:24:35 +0530

Love Malayalam crime thrillers? We've got you covered. Here are 5 of the best ones you can stream right now on JioHotstar, from 'Neru' to 'Heaven'.If you love a good crime thriller, the Malayalam film industry always delivers. Their movies are packed with murder, mystery, intense investigations, and twists that keep you guessing. Here are 5 solid Malayalam crime thrillers you can watch on the Jio-Hotstar OTT platform.Mohanlal stars in 'Neru' (2023), a solid courtroom crime drama. A visually impaired girl is raped. She creates a sculpture to identify her attacker, which becomes key evidence. The accused belongs to an influential family, so the case goes to court. Mohanlal argues for the victim, while Priyamani represents the opposition. The courtroom scenes and the slow reveal of the truth make the film gripping. The climax performances are simply brilliant. You can watch this film on Jio-Hotstar, and it's also available in Tamil.'Sookshmadarshini' (2024) is not your usual police investigation story. The heroine notices her new neighbour's strange behaviour and gets suspicious. She starts her own investigation. At first, the screenplay makes the audience feel something is definitely wrong. But the story then takes an unexpected turn, throwing multiple twists at you. The film's biggest plus point is how it holds the secret till the very end. This movie is available on Jio-Hotstar and also in Tamil.Jayaram's 2024 film 'Abraham Ozler' is a thriller about a serial killer. The investigation begins with a mysterious death at a hospital. The police are shocked to find a series of murders happening in the same pattern. Officer Abraham Ozler takes on the case, trying to crack the mystery behind the killings. The investigation scenes, twists, and Jayaram's performance are the film's highlights. The scenes featuring Jayaram and Mammootty especially grab your attention. This film is on Jio-Hotstar and also has a Tamil-dubbed version.Released in 2022, '21 Hours' is a crime thriller built around a mysterious murder. A nurse working at a private hospital is unexpectedly killed. The hero, who starts investigating the case, discovers that a few other mysterious deaths are linked to it. The investigation reveals who is behind these serial incidents and what their motive is. The film might feel a bit slow initially, but the story picks up pace later. You can find this movie on Jio-Hotstar.'Heaven' (2022) is an engaging crime investigation thriller. A few students on a trip to a forest accidentally discover two dead bodies. The police begin their investigation. Meanwhile, the mysterious murder of a family and a kidnapping case also come to their attention. The film's biggest twist is the connection between these seemingly separate cases. The hero's investigation style and natural acting are major plus points. While there are some questions of logic here and there, it provides a good crime thriller experience overall. You can watch this film on Jio-Hotstar.

Who Is Hrehaan Roshan? Hrithik Roshan’s Son Makes His Musical Debut, Know All About the Star Kid

Asianet Newsable English — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 12:17:03 +0530

20-year-old Hrehaan Roshan made his much-awaited musical debut. The son of actor Hrithik Roshan and entrepreneur Sussanne Khan, Hrehaan launched his first English single, 'This Heavenly Place,' under his stage name 'hrehaan.' He didn't just sing. He also wrote the song and played guitar, showing off his emerging talent.

A new chapter now opens for the Roshan family. For generations, this name has defined Indian cinema and music. Hrehaan's move into music — as an independent singer-songwriter and guitarist — carves his own distinct path. He builds on a musical heritage stretching back to his great-grandfather, the legendary composer Roshan, and includes his grand-uncle, music director Rajesh Roshan.

Formal Training Meets Artistic Independence

Berklee College of Music now hones Hrehaan's skills. He studies at the Boston institution, proving his commitment goes beyond family legacy. His scholarship acceptance into Berklee shows his dedication and innate musical talent. It gives him a strong foundation in theory, composition, and performance.

His education plays a key part in shaping his career. Hrehaan draws inspiration from family but actively builds his own musical identity. He distinguishes himself as a serious artist. He blends academic discipline with personal creativity. This Berklee journey shows Hrehaan's proactive approach to music — on his own terms, not just his family name.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by hrehaan roshan (@hrehaan)

'This Heavenly Place': A Debut of Self-Expression

Hrehaan crafted his inaugural single, 'This Heavenly Place,' as an English track. It explores themes of young love and introspection. As singer, songwriter, and guitarist, Hrehaan completely owned the creative process. He delivered a personal performance, showcasing his emerging artistic voice. An English debut signals his broader vision — he aims for a global audience right from the start.

How His Family and Well Wishers Reacted!

“You were born with an innate wisdom Ray: I trust it so much. It makes me fearless,” said Hrithik Roshan. The proud father shared Hrehaan's song on social media. His words eloquently showed deep faith in his son's path. The entire Roshan family poured out pride and support for 'This Heavenly Place.' They demonstrated collective encouragement for Hrehaan's independent musical journey. Mother Sussanne Khan also conveyed her joy and love for her son's new venture, showing strong family backing.

Grandfather Rakesh Roshan, the celebrated filmmaker, also celebrated the milestone. He encouraged Hrehaan to “keep soaring” in his art. Musician and actor Saba Azad, Hrithik Roshan's partner, joined the praise, calling the track “so beautiful.” The family’s collective endorsement not only celebrates Hrehaan’s talent but shows the supportive environment where he forges his artistic identity. Hrehaan Roshan is the first singer-songwriter and guitarist from his well-known family to pursue music distinctively and independently. He blends inherited talent with a self-driven artistic vision.

Kim Soo-hyun to make first SKorea appearance after Kim Sae-ron row

Asianet News Central — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 12:00:48 +0530

Actor Kim Soo-hyun is set to make his first public appearance in South Korea in more than a year, following a period away from local activities after allegations involving late actress Kim Sae-ron. According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim will appear as an award presenter at The Fact Music Awards, which will be held in Busan on September 19, said officials from the awards organising committee.

The Controversy and Legal Battle

His return comes months after allegations about his relationship with Kim Sae-ron surfaced. The late actress died at her home in February 2025 at the age of 24. According to the news agency, these allegations were first raised in March 2025 by conservative YouTuber Kim Se-ui through his YouTube channel Hover Lab.

Kim Soo-hyun later held a press conference, where he admitted that he had been in a relationship with Kim Sae-ron but denied claims that they had dated when she was a minor. Following the allegations, Kim Soo-hyun filed defamation complaints against the YouTuber and the late actress' family. Police recently dropped an underage dating charge against the actor that had been raised by Kim Sae-ron's family, citing a lack of evidence.

Activities Amid Hiatus

Meanwhile, Kim Soo-hyun has continued some activities outside South Korea. He recently appeared on a live television broadcast in Indonesia and is scheduled to meet fans in the Philippines in October. His appearance at The Fact Music Awards will mark his first public event in South Korea since the controversy surrounding his relationship with Kim Sae-ron.

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

Shabana Azmi Reveals Reality of Her Not So 'Hunky-Dory' Marriage to Javed Akhtar: ‘We Have Huge Fights’

Shreya Tinkhede — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 11:54:29 +0530

Shabana Azmi and Javed Akhtar are one of the most loved couples in the film industry, and there's no denying that. Reason? They are not lauded for PDA moments or stunning appearances, although that is part of the deal. What makes them one of a kind are the values, speeches, and witty remarks they have to shower on people. Yes, you read that right. The duo speaks openly about human relationships, their nature, feminism, and womanhood.

Now, in a recent interview, Azmi opened up about the reality of her marriage and said that it's no ‘hunky-dory’. Yes, let us tell you that they have been married for over four decades now. Talking on Zoom, Azmi revealed that she was attracted to Javed's wit and intelligence. Shabana revealed that the writer and her father were very similar, and in discovering Javed, it felt like she was discovering her own father.

On Her Married Life With Akhtar

She said, "They have exactly the same kind of background. Their parents were progressive writers and were from the communist party. They loved Urdu poetry. Many people thought that ours should have been an arranged marriage. There are huge fights that Javed and I have. It’s not like it’s Hunky Dory. But our friendship is so strong, and our worldview is the same. Our ideologies are the same. That's what I feel is important. “He is also the person who can be comfortable with any company. He has a very good ability to communicate with people. He is a very fair person, and I respect that a lot in him."

DYK Javed Akhtar Was Already Married?

Shabana and Javed received a lot of hate when they got married to each other, as the writer was already married to writer Honey Irani. Talking about the same she said, "Because for me, Honey is like a member of the family. She is like a sibling to Javed. Our relationship is very healthy. She never filled the children's ears with hatred against me. She never badmouths her husband in front of their children. She didn't try to divide the children. She is a very sensible person. Because of her generosity and intelligence, it was very easy for me to do it. She is somebody I have deep respect for."

Toxic Row: K Annamalai Questions Yash’s Film Over Women’s Portrayal in 'Bad Light': 'If Students Watch This...'

Zetan Kumari — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 11:46:38 +0530

Yash's Toxic: A Fairy Tale For Grown Ups is embroiled in yet another controversy after being criticized by ex-BJP leader K Annamalai for the way women have been portrayed in the film and the kind of influence that it might have on younger audiences.

Annamalai Criticizes Toxic

Speaking at a rally in Coimbatore, Annamalai pointed out his concerns regarding how women have been portrayed in the film and what kind of impact it may have on students. He has also pointed out how the film received theatrical release despite having such contents in spite of the stringent guidelines set forth by CBFC.

As toxic is being talked about because of the controversial content it contains, Annamalai feels stricter certification process needs to be followed for films like these.

Toxic Gets Adult Certification

Toxic has been awarded ‘A’ certification by CBFC, which means that it is a film meant for adult audiences only.

Toxic Registers Huge Dip in Box Office Collection on Second Day

Along with the controversy, there is a noticeable dip in the performance of the film at the box office. The film made ₹101.10 crore net collection in India on Day 1. But on Day 2, the movie registered an estimated net collection of ₹37.65 crore, thus showing a dip of around 62.8% over its first day collection figure. Its net two-day collection in India stands at approximately ₹138.75 crore.

Even with the dip witnessed on Day 2, Toxic has gone beyond ₹182 crore net in India in its first three days at the box office. Now, the weekend showings will be pivotal to establish whether Yash's latest movie can make a comeback.

About Toxic

A Geetu Mohandas film, Toxic features Yash in a dual role along with Nayanthara, Kiara Advani, Huma Qureshi, Tara Sutaria, and Rukmini Vasanth in the cast of the movie. The film hit the theaters on 26th August across multiple Indian languages.

However, the film is now undergoing its theatrical run following varied responses from audiences about its commercial success and controversial contents.

Neeraj Chopra vs Rumesh Pathirage: India’s Star Faces New Threat in Diamond League Final

Richa Barua — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 11:43:55 +0530

India’s women’s hockey team will receive a Rs 50 lakh cash reward from Hockey India after finishing fifth at the FIH Hockey World Cup. The governing body announced the award on Friday, a day after Salima Tete and her team delivered a 3-1 win over World No. 5 Germany in the 5th/6th place classification match in Amstelveen.

The result is India’s best at a women’s World Cup in 52 years, surpassing every campaign since the inaugural 1974 edition, when the team placed fourth. It capped a consistent tournament against higher-ranked opposition and underscored the squad’s steady rise on the international stage.

Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey hailed the achievement while confirming the cash prize for the squad. He said the fifth-place finish reflected the team’s growth and resolve across the tournament’s demanding schedule.

Cash award announced after historic fifth place

"This is a historic result for Indian women’s hockey. To finish fifth at a World Cup after 52 years is a testament to the hard work, resilience and fighting spirit this team has shown throughout the tournament."

Tirkey added that the reward recognized both performance and effort. "On behalf of Hockey India, I am pleased to announce a cash award of INR 50 lakh for the team as a token of our appreciation, and I hope this inspires the players to keep raising the bar," he added.

India lost only once in the tournament and stood firm against elite rivals, holding China, England and Australia to draws. They also produced a dominant 6-1 victory over South Africa.

Consistency against higher-ranked teams under Sjoerd Marijne

The campaign closed with the disciplined win over Germany, marking an emphatic finish under Chief Coach Sjoerd Marijne. With Tete leading the effort on the field, India’s fifth-place outcome brings the program’s best World Cup return since 1974 and offers a timely boost.

For Hockey India, the Rs 50 lakh award signals formal recognition of a landmark run and a nudge to sustain momentum. After a 52-year wait for a top-five finish, the federation’s message is clear: build on this platform and keep pushing the standard.

Shelley Fabares' cause of death revealed; actress died of pneumonia

Asianet News Central — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 11:00:51 +0530

Cause of Death Revealed as Pneumonia

Just days after the death of Shelley Fabares, best known for her roles in The Donna Reed Show and Coach, her family has now revealed the cause of the actress's death. Fabares' family confirmed the cause of her death to PEOPLE and other outlets, saying that the actress died of pneumonia after a brief illness.

The actress had earlier been diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis and underwent a liver transplant in October 2000 after being on the waiting list for nearly two years. In a statement announcing her death, Fabares' family remembered her for the love and warmth she shared with those around her. The statement, as per The Hollywood Reporter, said, "To her family and friends, Shelley was a source of love, strength, laughter and comfort. She was a devoted wife, cherished stepmother, daughter, sister, niece, aunt, family member and loyal friend whose warmth, generosity, humor and grace made an enduring difference in the lives of everyone who knew her. She had a remarkable ability to make people feel welcomed, valued and cared for."

Remembering a Prolific Career

Fabares began her career at a young age and became widely known for playing Mary Stone on The Donna Reed Show, which aired on ABC from 1958 to 1966. She also appeared alongside Elvis Presley in three films: Girl Happy in 1965, Spinout in 1966 and Clambake in 1967.

In 1971, she starred opposite James Caan in the television film Brian's Song. Her work in music also brought her major success. During her time on The Donna Reed Show, Fabares recorded "Johnny Angel," which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in April 1962.

Fabares later found another major television role in Coach, where she played the wife of Craig T. Nelson's college football coach. The ABC comedy ran for eight seasons from 1989 to 1997 and earned Fabares two Emmy nominations. Her other television credits included One Day at a Time, The Practice, Highcliffe Manor and Forever Fernwood.

Fabares is survived by her husband, actor Mike Farrell, known for his role in MASH. (ANI)

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

Irumudi Box Office Collection Day 8: Ravi Teja’s Film Hits Rs 101 Crore In India, Rs 136 Crore Worldwide

Zetan Kumari — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 10:51:54 +0530

Irumudi has reached another big success at the box office with their latest release. Irumudi has grossed over ₹100 crore in India net collections and this success is helping its theatrical run as it is now entering into its second weekend of its release.

Irumudi Hits ₹100 Crore In India

As per recent box office numbers, Irumudi has grossed over ₹100 crore in India net collections on its eighth day of run. Thanks to its consistent performance in the first week that has helped it cross this number without depending only on its initial weekend collections.

The movie’s second Friday collection has also performed very good as its collection numbers have risen up to 40.6% as compared to the previous day.

Language-Based Collection: Telugu Is Leading

Looking at the language-based numbers makes the movie’s performance even more apparent. For instance, the Telugu language movie has helped in earning an amount of ₹101.64 crore in the total India net collection, whereas the Tamil language movie has earned ₹0.21 crore.

In the Day 8 period, the Telugu language movie made a net collection of ₹9.69 crore, whereas the Tamil language movie has brought an amount of ₹0.01 crore.

Worldwide Collection of Irumudi

In addition, the film has been performing well in foreign countries. The box office collection in India is ₹118.20 crore, whereas the overseas collection has touched ₹18.50 crore.

This brings the total gross collection of Irumudi to ₹136.70 crore.

Second Weekend Performance Of Irumudi

After achieving the milestone of ₹100 Crore India net collection, now the focus would be on how well Irumudi would perform in the second weekend. This can certainly help the film earn good amount of revenue along with extending its theatrical journey.

For now, the milestone is enough to say that Irumudi has become one of Ravi Teja's box office successes. The response of viewers would decide the future of Irumudi's theatrical journey.

Irumudi Box Office Collection: Day 8 Numbers At A Glance

Day 8 India net: ₹9.70 crore
Total India net: ₹101.85 crore
India gross: ₹118.20 crore
Worldwide gross: ₹136.70 crore
Day 8 collections reportedly rose 40.6% from Day 7.

Lupita Nyong'o pays tribute to Chadwick Boseman with touching post

Asianet News Central — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 10:30:57 +0530

Hollywood actor Lupita Nyong'o remembered her late Black Panther co-star Chadwick Boseman on the sixth anniversary of his death. Boseman, who played the iconic role of T'Challa in the Marvel film, died at the age of 43 in 2020 after battling colon cancer. He had kept his illness private and continued working on several projects during his treatment.

Nyong'o, who played Nakia, T'Challa's love interest in Black Panther, shared a picture of herself with Boseman on Saturday. Along with the photo, she posted a message about holding on to loved ones and telling them how much they mean. "Hold on to those you love who love you back. Tell them you love them. Show them you love them. You'll miss them when they're gone."

Take a look: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lupita Nyong'o (@lupitanyongo)

Boseman's Private Battle and Iconic Career

Boseman's death was announced through a post on his official Instagram account in August 2020. His team revealed that he had been diagnosed with stage III colon cancer in 2016, which later progressed to stage IV.

Despite his illness, Boseman continued to work and completed several films during his treatment. His performance as T'Challa made him a global star, while his roles as historical figures such as Jackie Robinson in 42, Thurgood Marshall in Marshall and James Brown in Get On Up also earned him praise.

Boseman received a posthumous Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his performance in Ma Rainey's Black Bottom at the 93rd Academy Awards. His final Marvel performance came as the voice of T'Challa in the animated series What If...?, which was released after his death. (ANI)

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

Who Was Neem Karoli Baba? Why Kohli and Zuckerberg Were Drawn to the ‘Hanuman Bhakt’

Richa Barua — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 10:27:01 +0530

At a time when big-budget movies with huge stars are struggling at the box office, a small spiritual film released without any hype is quietly making a big splash.

The film is 'Hanuman Ansh', based on the life of the famous spiritual guru Neem Karoli Baba. Its box office performance is surprising everyone in the film industry.

No Hype, Big Win

When 'Hanuman Ansh' first came out, it was released in just a handful of theatres. In its first two weeks, the film only managed to collect ₹1.30 crore across the country. With almost no promotion, it was on the verge of being pulled from cinemas.

A Box Office Shaker: What's the Secret?

But then, something amazing happened. People who saw the film started talking about it. This word-of-mouth publicity completely changed the situation. Audiences loved the film's spiritual message and powerful story. Soon, there was a huge demand for the film across the country. In its second week, it was showing on just 40 screens. Now, it's running in over 400! There's even a 'buy one, get one free' offer on BookMyShow, which has pulled in even more crowds.

Made on a small budget of just ₹2 crore, the film has already earned ₹8 crore nationwide. It's doing particularly well in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and across Uttar Pradesh and Punjab. The film is continuing its successful run, and some are even calling it one of the super films of 2026.

Who is Neem Karoli Baba?

The film, which was released on June 7, tells the story of Neem Karoli Baba's life and his spiritual teachings. Film analysts believe it could easily cross the ₹20 crore mark by this weekend. Directed by Vishal Chaturvedi, 'Hanuman Ansh' is the latest proof that audiences are really connecting with spiritual stories these days.

Neem Karoli Baba was a famous Hindu spiritual guru and a great devotee of Lord Hanuman. His followers lovingly called him Maharaj-ji. His Kainchi Dham ashram, located near Nainital in Uttarakhand, is famous all over the world.

His real name was Lakshman Narayan Sharma. He was born into a wealthy zamindar family in Akbarpur village, in Uttar Pradesh's Firozabad district. His philosophy was simple: 'Love everyone, serve everyone, remember God.' He passed away in 1973 at a hospital in Vrindavan, and his samadhi is located at his Vrindavan ashram.

Neem Karoli Baba's influence wasn't just limited to India. Some of the world's most famous people became his devotees. Apple founder Steve Jobs, Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg, and cricketer Virat Kohli have all visited his ashram. Even the famous American writer Richard Alpert, who later became Ram Dass, was a follower. In fact, Virat Kohli was once spotted with Baba's photo as his phone wallpaper. Richard Alpert became his disciple and even wrote a book about him called 'Miracle of Love'.

Toxic Box Office Collection Day 3: Yash’s Film Hits Rs 221 Crore Worldwide, But Sees Sharp Dip

Zetan Kumari — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 10:25:44 +0530

The eagerly awaited Yash starrer Toxic: A Fairy Tale For Grown-ups has made it to the ₹150 crore mark in India within just three days of its theatrical release. But the Day 3 early numbers indicate that there is a slowdown in the movie's theatrical run when compared to its huge opening.

The Geetu Mohandas directorial hit the big screens on 26th August and managed a great opening before seeing a big decline on the very next day. The latest early trend gives us an insight into the performance of the movie on Friday.

Toxic Box Office Collection Day 3

Toxic has collected approximately ₹14.20 crore net in India by 6:15 PM on Day 3 and ₹26.6 crore by 10 PM.

Thus, the net collections of the film in India have gone up to approximately ₹165.35 crore and the gross collections have reached around ₹182.61 crore in India.

These are the early numbers of Day 3 so there could be more collection on Friday.

Hindi Version Leading On Day 3

The Hindi version of the movie is doing well. As per the reported update, Toxic's Hindi version had made about ₹10.19 crore, while its Kannada version had grossed ₹2.46 crore on Day 3.

Will Toxic Perform Well During The Weekend?

With Friday numbers yet to arrive, the weekend may prove crucial for the movie. Yash-starrer Toxic has already crossed ₹182 crore net in India and Hits ₹221 Crore Worldwide but needs to maintain its performance.

Note: Day 3 figures mentioned above are early estimates and may change after the final box-office update.

Regarding the Movie “Toxic : A fairy tale for grown-ups”

“Toxic : A fairy tale for grown-ups” is a movie based on the life of gangster. The movie is directed by Geetu Mohandas, where Yash plays dual roles. Other stars cast of this movie include Nayanthara, Kiara Advani, Huma Qureshi, Tara Sutaria, and Rukmini Vasanth. This movie is set in a period, and it talks about the rise of a powerful gangster and all the difficulties around his life.