Asianet Newsable

Actor Vijay to be sworn-in as Tamil Nadu CM; father expresses delight

Asianet News Central — Sun, 10 May 2026 00:01:14 +0530

Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) leader C Joseph Vijay has been officially appointed as the new Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, now set to take oath on May 10.

Family, Friends React

In a warm response to the party's success, Vijay's father, director SA Chandrasekhar, expressed immense delight. "I am happy. I am so happy. Whatever I am doing, I am doing it only for my son...Finally, Tamil people have succeeded through Vijay," he told the media, further sending a message to his son, "Do everything for Tamilians."

Shobhana, a family friend, also spoke to the media and expressed how it was a long wait for everyone. "We are very happy. This was long-awaited...I hope he goes through for another five years...People are expecting so much from him...He has to be careful; he should know who to trust and how to take advice from the right person. This is very important. He should have very highly qualified people to advise him because he might have learned it, but experience talks a lot. If he has some experienced people around him who can advise him on running the state well, hats off to him...I am sure he will do well," Shobhana shared.

Another family friend, Ponni, told the media, "We are very happy. We are supporting you always...We are trusting you..."

Official Appointment and Political Majority

Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Arlekar on Saturday appointed Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) leader C Joseph Vijay as the new Chief Minister of the state and asked him to prove his majority in the state assembly before May 13.

The swearing-in ceremony will be held at Nehru Stadium, Chennai, on May 10 at 10 am.

Vijay, an actor-turned-politician, met the Governor earlier in the day and gave him letters of support from Congress, CPI, Communist Party of India (Marxist), VCK and IUML.

The TVK, which created a record by winning 108 seats in its debut assembly polls, now has the support of 120 MLAs in the 234-member assembly. The majority mark in the assembly is 118.

After he takes the oath, Vijay will become the first leader outside the DMK and AIADMK formations to head the Tamil Nadu government since 1967. (ANI)

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Shawn Levy to direct new sci-fi movie 'Somewhere Out There' for Netflix

Asianet News Central — Sun, 10 May 2026 00:00:56 +0530

Shawn Levy's New Netflix Sci-Fi

Filmmaker Shawn Levy is all set to helm a new project, coming on board to direct the original sci-fi movie 'Somewhere Out There' for Netflix.

According to Variety, Netflix has picked up the spec script from Max Taxe in a bidding way, with Levy now also set to produce the film under his 21 Laps banner. The story is said to be falling in the emotional vein of 'Arrival' and 'The Adam Project', following a grieving father who loses his wife and ends up sending a message out into space. It is only then that something actually talks back.

Upcoming Star Wars Film

The development arrives on the heels of Shawn Levy's recent wrap of production on 'Star Wars: Starfighter'. A standalone film outside the Skywalker saga, Starfighter is set five years after Star Wars: Episode IX -- The Rise of Skywalker (2019).

Written by Jonathan Tropper, the movie stars Ryan Gosling, Matt Smith, Mia Goth, Aaron Pierre, Simon Bird, Jamael Westman, Daniel Ings, Flynn Gray and Amy Adams, according to Deadline. 15-time Oscar nominee Thomas Newman will compose the score for 'Star Wars: Starfighter'. The film will be released on May 28, 2027.

Other Notable Projects

Meanwhile, Levy's other projects include 'Stranger Things' and 'All the Light We Cannot See'. He also directed Marvel's 'Deadpool & Wolverine', which went on to collect USD 1.086 billion at the global box office, and is still the highest-grossing R-rated movie in history. (ANI)

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Kunal Kemmu shares throwback pics with daughter Inaaya for his new song

Asianet News Central — Sun, 10 May 2026 00:00:38 +0530

Actor Kunal Kemmu offered a rare peek into his precious childhood memories of himself and his daughter, Inaaya. Taking to Instagram, Kunal shared an adorable picture of himself, holding onto a very young Inaaya, followed by another picture from her toddler days. Kunal Kemmu also attached pictures of his childhood days, channelling a nostalgic vibe on social media. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kunal Kemmu (@kunalkemmu)

In a nod to his latest song, 'Nindiya', the 'Single Papa' actor wrote, "Lullaby Nostalgia Me as a child and me with my child. Nindiya.. out now."

Kunal Kemmu's latest single, 'Nindiya', was released on May 7. With Kemmu's vocals leading, the music video arrives as a "lullaby that comes straight from the heart, wrapped in calm, comfort, and late-night dreams," the actor said in an official logline.

Earlier, the actor unveiled the music video on Instagram and wrote, "Some songs are written for the world. This one was written for my little world. My lullaby is finally yours to hear. Nindiya is now yours."

On the work front

On the work front, Kunal was recently seen in Netflix's family series 'Single Papa'. The show, which focuses on a single father and his family, received a strong response from viewers after its release. Following the success of the show, Netflix announced the show's renewal for a second season.

Along with Kunal Kemmu, the series features Prajakta Koli, Manoj Pahwa, Ayesha Raza, Neha Dhupia, Suhail Nayyar, Dayanand Shetty, Aisha Ahmed, and Isha Talwar. Their performances added to the family dynamic of the story.

Season 2 will continue the story of the Gehlot family, with new situations and changes expected in their lives. The makers plan to explore how the family grows as Gaurav navigates his role as a father. The release date for Season 2 has not been announced yet.

Kunal Kemmu also has his second directorial venture, 'Vibe' with Preity Zinta in the pipeline. (ANI)

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Sonam Kapoor and Anand Ahuja welcome second son, name him 'Rudralokh'

Asianet News Central — Sun, 10 May 2026 00:00:21 +0530

Sonam Kapoor and her husband Anand Ahuja have named their second son 'Rudralokh'. On Saturday, Sonam took to Instagram and penned a heartfelt note for the newborn. She also shared some fam-jam pictures, giving a glimpse of Rudralokh.

"In the spirit of the divine force that has once again transformed our lives. Born on the sacred day of Ekadashi, under Vishnu's grace, our second son feels like a sign, a karmic alignment, a divine pairing with his brother, and a blessing we deeply honour. With love and gratitude, we welcome Rudralokh Kapoor Ahuja," she wrote.

Sonam Kapoor explains the meaning of 'Rudralokh'

Sonam also explained the meaning of her son's name. "In the Vedas, Rudra (rudr), from the root rud, 'to roar,' is the mightiest of the mighty. The one who eradicates suffering at its source, the divine force behind storms, breath, healing, and renewal. He is deeply connected to Vayu, the prana that moves through all beings. Our firstborn carries the name of Vishnu, the sustainer of life. With Rudra, a sacred continuity emerges. Breath and power. Preservation and transformation. One strengthening the other. Like his name, may Rudra grow to be fearless, compassionate, deeply aware, and a force of strength and light. With gratitude for your love and blessings, Sonam, Anand, Vayu, and Rudra," she added. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sonam A Kapoor (@sonamkapoor)

Bollywood celebrities congratulate the couple

In no time, Sonam's post was flooded with heartfelt congratulations. "Congratulations!," actor Parineeti Chopra commented. "Love the name," filmmaker Karan Johar wrote.

Sonam and Anand's first child, Vayu, was born in 2022. (ANI)

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Rashmika Mandanna's birthday wish for 'husband' Vijay Deverakonda

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 23:30:55 +0530

Melting hearts on social media, actor Rashmika Mandanna shared a warm and affectionate birthday wish for husband Vijay Deverakonda, sparking much excitement among fans once again. The heartfelt post, filled with admiration and sweet emotions, quickly went viral as fans celebrated the beloved duo's bond.

Rashmika Shares Birthday Itinerary

In celebration of Vijay's birthday, Rashmika shared a sweet itinerary of how the couple spent the day. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rashmika Mandanna (@rashmika_mandanna)

"It's my man's birthday today and my day went like this..... In reverse tho," Rashmika playfully wrote. With further details, she continued, "Now we are headed to our friend's place to celebrate, but before this we went to the gym and worked out, and before that I did some quick cardio while Vijju went out for a meeting and before that we went and met our boys and girls who'd come home to show Vijju lots of love and I also ended up getting lots of it as well and before that good mornings to paapalu dad and Shimmu happened who is here for Vijju's birthday and thus it was a perfect day!"

Appearing in high spirits, Rashmika also expressed her delight at getting a shoot cancelled and having it celebrated. "Happiest birthday to you my Viiijjjjjuuuuu!" she concluded. The 'Animal' star also attached a series of pictures to the post, offering glimpses from Vijay's birthday moments throughout the day. From adorable moments of the couple to warm gatherings with family and fans, the pictures left fans elated. Many rushed to the comment section and showered the actor with birthday wishes.

Vijay Deverakonda Celebrates with Fans

Earlier in the day, fans in large numbers gathered outside Vijay's Hyderabad residence to catch a glimpse of the actor and shower him with wishes.

Responding to the overwhelming love, Vijay also appeared on the balcony of his residence and greeted fans, sending the crowd into a frenzy. The actor was joined by his wife, Rashmika Mandanna, along with family members, who stood beside him warmly acknowledging fans' affection.

Later, Vijay stepped outside his residence to celebrate with fans more closely. A special cake-cutting ceremony was organised amid loud cheers and celebrations. Adding to the excitement was a specially designed 'Ranabaali'-themed cake, arranged as a tribute to Vijay's much-anticipated movie. Videos and pictures from the celebrations soon began circulating across social media.

'Ranabaali' Movie Update

On the professional front, the makers of his upcoming film 'Ranabaali' unveiled a special behind-the-scenes video showcasing the actor's intense horse-riding training and physical preparation for his role as a warrior in the period action drama. The film is scheduled to release in theatres on September 11, 2026. (ANI)

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

Ishaan Khatter celebrates 1 year of 'The Royals', hints at sequel

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 23:30:25 +0530

Ishaan Khatter Celebrates 'The Royals' Anniversary

Actor Ishaan Khatter is celebrating one year of his Netflix rom-com series 'The Royals', overwhelmed with warm responses from fans to date. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Ishaan shared pictures showing him delighted on receiving multiple fan letters and notes. He also added multiple BTS glimpses from the sets of the show.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ishaan (@ishaankhatter)

"One year of #TheRoyals today! Your letters and notes coming in even today are the sweetest thing ever. Bringing much more excitement sooon.. Powered by your love," the actor wrote in the caption.

While fans showered much love on the post, many couldn't help but notice Ishaan's subtle sequel tease. One wrote, "Next season alert!! Yay!!"

Ishaan Khatter was seen in the lead character as Maharaja Aviraaj, paired opposite Bhumi Pednekkar's Sophia. Directed by Priyanka Ghose and Nupur Asthana, written by Neha Veena Sharma, and produced under the banner of Pritish Nandy Communications, 'The Royals' also featured veteran actress Zeenat Aman, Sakshi Tanwar, Nora Fatehi, Dino Morea, Milind Soman, Chunky Panday, Vihaan Samat, Kavya Trehan, Sumukhi Suresh, and Udit Arora, among others.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Netflix India (@netflix_in)

'The Royals' Season 2 Confirmed

While the first season went on to become the first Indian series to trend in Netflix's Global Top 10 Non-English TV Shows across 58 countries, it is now set to return with a second season.

Showrunner Rangita Pritish Nandy described the first season as a "love letter to the romcom genre," filled with lavish palaces, polo races, and midnight balls.

"Season 1 struck a chord globally. This told us just one thing: we had to come back for more. Season 2 is going to be bigger, bolder, and even more fabulous. Expect more fire, more feisty banter, and yes, a whole lot of drama," she said in a press note. (ANI)

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Sally Field on how Jack Nicholson helped her beat Hollywood typecasting

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 23:30:24 +0530

Veteran actress Sally Field has revealed that Jack Nicholson played a crucial role in helping her overcome a difficult phase in Hollywood after her early television success left her typecast, according to People.

Struggles with Typecasting

Speaking about her career struggles, the two-time Oscar winner recalled that after starring in the sitcom The Flying Nun in the late 1960s and early 1970s, she found it nearly impossible to secure serious acting opportunities. "I couldn't get in a room to audition. I couldn't get on the list. They thought they already knew what I was. 'No, thanks. We don't want any of that,'" Field said, according to People.

The actress shared that during that period, she pushed herself to improve her craft instead of giving up. "I had to say to myself that if I wasn't where I wanted to be, I had to get better," she said, describing Hollywood as "rotten" and "unfair."

A Recommendation from the Actors Studio

Field explained that she began training extensively at the Actors Studio in Los Angeles under renowned acting coach Lee Strasberg. Among the actors attending the sessions was Nicholson, whom she described as one of the "wonderful actors" regularly working with Strasberg.

According to Field, Nicholson eventually noticed her dedication and recommended her to casting director Dianne Crittenden and filmmaker Bob Rafelson as "an undiscovered talent." That recommendation led to her first significant meeting for the 1976 comedy-drama Stay Hungry.

A Career Turning Point

"So in some weird way, my theory was right," Field said. "I worked at the Actors Studio for so long -- and it was so hard -- that Jack had seen it and the word spread," according to People.

Field went on to star opposite Jeff Bridges and Arnold Schwarzenegger in Stay Hungry, which she described as the turning point in her career. "It was the beginning of the change," she said, according to People.

The same year, Field also won an Emmy Award for the television miniseries Sybil, paving the way for acclaimed projects such as Smokey and the Bandit, Norma Rae and Places in the Heart.

Continued Commitment to the Craft

Now 79, Field says she remains committed to acting and continues to focus on improving her craft. "I'm always hoping to get better," she said, according to People.

Field currently stars in Remarkably Bright Creatures, adapted from Remarkably Bright Creatures, which is now streaming on Netflix. (ANI)

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India Pavilion 'Remembering home' Shines at Venice Biennale 2026

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 23:00:40 +0530

Indian art has been in full focus at the Venice Biennale, one of the world's most prestigious international art exhibitions. The Ministry of Culture has partnered with The Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre to present the India Pavilion to the Venice Biennale.

'Remembering Home' at the India Pavilion

Remembering home is the exhibition presented by the Pavilion of India at the 61st International Art Exhibition -- La Biennale di Venezia 2026. Curated by Amin Jaffer and commissioned by the Ministry of Culture in partnership with the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) and Serendipity Arts, the exhibition is installed within the historic Isolotto warehouse at the Arsenale, Venice.

The exhibition brings together five leading contemporary artists Alwar Balasubramaniam (Bala), Ranjani Shettar, Sumakshi Singh, Skarma Sonam Tashi, and Asim Waqif -- whose practices reflect on the meaning of home in a time of profound transformation. Unified through materials deeply rooted in Indian civilization, clay, thread, bamboo, papier-mache, and hand-formed natural structures -- the works respond to the Biennale's overarching theme, In Minor Keys. Across the Pavilion, home appears fractured, suspended, scaffolded, and reimagined. The works reflect a shared condition of change, and together the artists form a collective voice that is both deeply rooted in Indian identity and globally resonant.

A Voice from Ladakh: Skarma Sonam Tashi

As global attention turns towards the National Pavilion of India at the 61st International Art Exhibition - La Biennale di Venezia 2026, one of the quieter yet deeply evocative presences inside the Pavilion comes from the Himalayan region of Ladakh. Through the work of Skarma Sonam Tashi, the Pavilion brings into international focus the fragile ecology, spiritual traditions and sustainable way of life that have shaped Ladakh for centuries.

The India Pavilion, inaugurated on May 6 by the Ministry of Culture in collaboration with Serendipity Arts and NMACC, drew packed crowds and some of the most influential names from the global art world. Diplomats, collectors, curators, industrialists and cultural patrons gathered for the opening reception, reflecting the growing international visibility of India's contemporary cultural voice.

Set against the Pavilion's broader theme, In Minor Keys, "Geographies of Distance, Remembering Home", the inclusion of Tashi's work introduces audiences to a civilisation shaped not by excess, but by restraint, balance and coexistence with nature.

Born in 1997 in Sapi, a small village in the Kargil district of Ladakh, the twenty-eight-year-old artist carries, in his work, a landscape he describes as steadily disappearing. Tashi works with papier-mache, a material tradition historically linked with Himalayan and Kashmiri artistic practices, transforming it into a contemporary visual language rooted in mountain life and Buddhist philosophy. His sculptures are made from old notebooks, discarded books and cardboard, soaked into pulp and mixed with tamarind seed glue and local clay. From these humble materials -- things most people throw away -- he builds forms that resemble traditional Ladakhi architecture: inward-sloping walls, rammed earth textures and geometries shaped to survive altitude and extreme cold.

The works often appear weathered by wind and time, embodying both memory and fragility.

Indigenous Knowledge and Sustainability

In Ladakh, sustainability is not a modern slogan but a lived inheritance. Villages built from earth and stone, glacier-fed irrigation systems, collective farming traditions and low-impact lifestyles evolved over centuries in one of the harshest inhabited terrains in the world.

The region's cultural rhythms remain deeply intertwined with monastic institutions, seasonal cycles and community life. Through art emerging from this landscape, the Pavilion subtly foregrounds indigenous knowledge systems that are increasingly relevant in a world confronting ecological anxiety and climate change.

Tashi's sculptures function simultaneously as elegies and acts of preservation, documenting ways of building, farming and living that are increasingly under threat.

Yet beyond maps, the Pavilion presents Ladakh through the lens of culture as a repository of Buddhist heritage, artistic continuity and resilient human adaptation in the high Himalayas.

India's Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Secretary Culture Vivek Aggarwal, Ambassador of India to Italy Vani Rao, Joint Secretary Ministry of Culture Lily Pandeya, Member Secretary IGNCA Dr Sachchidanand Joshi, DG NGMA Dr Sanjeev Kishore Goutam and other officers from the Government of India attended the inauguration event in Venice. (ANI)

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India's Venice Biennale Pavilion wows with 'Remembering Home' exhibit

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 22:00:40 +0530

India's Pavilion Garners International Acclaim

India's Pavilion at the La Biennale di Venezia is drawing widespread international attention for its immersive exploration of migration, memory, sustainability and indigenous knowledge systems through contemporary art rooted in traditional Indian materials and craft practices.

Remembering Home is the exhibition presented by the Pavilion of India at the 61st International Art Exhibition -- La Biennale di Venezia 2026. Curated by Dr Amin Jaffer and commissioned by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in partnership with the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) and Serendipity Arts, the exhibition is installed within the historic Isolotto warehouse at the Arsenale, Venice, according to the press release.

Installed within the historic Isolotto warehouse at the Arsenale in Venice, the exhibition responds to the Biennale's overarching theme, In Minor Keys, while presenting a deeply layered reflection on identity, displacement and belonging in a rapidly changing world.

A Fractured and Reimagined Home

The exhibition brings together five leading contemporary artists -- Alwar Balasubramaniam (Bala), Ranjani Shettar, Sumakshi Singh, Skarma Sonam Tashi, and Asim Waqif -- whose practices reflect on the meaning of home in a time of profound transformation. Unified through materials deeply rooted in Indian civilisation -- clay, thread, bamboo, papier-mache, and hand-formed natural structures -- the works respond to the Biennale's overarching theme, In Minor Keys.

Across the Pavilion, the idea of "home" appears fractured, suspended, scaffolded and reimagined. Together, the artists create a collective voice that remains deeply rooted in Indian cultural memory while resonating with global conversations around ecology, migration and resilience.

Art from Ancestral Roots

At the heart of Remembering Home lies a strong engagement with India's tribal and indigenous material traditions. Rather than treating tribal culture as static or historical, the exhibition transforms ancestral practices into contemporary artistic language. Through bamboo, earth, recycled materials, embroidery and natural fibres, the Pavilion foregrounds philosophies long associated with indigenous communities -- sustainability, coexistence with nature, collective memory and hand-made labour.

Spotlight on the Artists

Asim Waqif's 'Chaal' Installation

One of the Pavilion's most talked-about installations is Asim Waqif's monumental bamboo structure Chaal, inspired by temporary scaffolding systems commonly seen across India's urban landscapes.

Constructed like an evolving architectural scaffold, the immersive installation reflects themes of labour, mobility, urbanisation and the transformation of contemporary India. At the same time, the work draws attention to bamboo's deep cultural and ecological significance within India's tribal and rural communities, particularly across Northeast India, Central India and West Bengal, where bamboo remains central to architecture, craft, basketry, food systems and local economies.

Often referred to as "green gold," bamboo continues to support livelihoods through handicrafts, textiles and women-led self-help groups across several rural regions. The installation also subtly acknowledges the role of women as custodians of weaving, processing and artisanal traditions associated with bamboo, positioning the material not only as an ecological resource but also as a carrier of social memory and cultural continuity.

Historically, bamboo has occupied an important place within India's artistic and civilisational traditions, including its use in musical instruments, ritual practices and folk performance traditions across regions. Within the Pavilion, bamboo emerges as both a traditional material and a contemporary response to conversations surrounding climate-conscious architecture and sustainable living.

Alwar Balasubramaniam's Cracked-Earth Works

Another significant body of work comes from Alwar Balasubramaniam, whose cracked-earth installations use soil sourced from Tamil Nadu to create surfaces shaped by natural evaporation and time. The fissures and fragmented landscapes evoke drought patterns, ecological scars and emotional dislocation linked to migration and urban transformation.

The work also reflects indigenous philosophies where land is viewed not as property, but as ancestry, memory and spirit. By allowing natural processes to shape the artwork, Balasubramaniam recalls ancient terracotta traditions and mud-building practices that have existed across India for centuries, embracing imperfection and transformation as part of the artistic process.

Sumakshi Singh's Threads of Memory

Meanwhile, Sumakshi Singh explores memory and loss through a translucent thread installation recreating the outline of a demolished family home. Using embroidery and handwoven techniques, Singh transforms thread into fragile architectural forms that appear almost ghost-like within the exhibition space.

The work draws deeply from India's indigenous textile traditions, where weaving and embroidery historically functioned as forms of storytelling, identity preservation and oral history across tribal and rural communities. Its labour-intensive process mirrors the slow, collective craft practices often embedded within family and community life.

Skarma Sonam Tashi's Himalayan Echoes

The Pavilion also features works by Skarma Sonam Tashi inspired by traditional Ladakhi homes and Himalayan architectural systems. Created using papier-mache and recycled materials, the fragile structures reflect ecological sensitivity and climate-adaptive indigenous building practices from the Himalayan region. The installation quietly comments on the disappearance of traditional construction systems under the pressure of urbanisation and concrete development, while preserving the emotional memory of vanishing landscapes and communities.

Grand Inauguration and Global Reception

The India Pavilion this year is themed "Geographies of Distance, Remembering Home", reflecting on migration, memory, belonging and cultural continuity in a rapidly changing world. Union Minister for Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Secretary Culture Vivek Aggarwal, Ambassador of India to Italy Vani Rao, and Lily Pandeya Joint Secretary Ministry of Culture were also present during the inauguration event.

Over the next six months, India's cultural presence across Venice will further expand through a series of musical and performance presentations curated by the Serendipity Arts, reinforcing India's message of cultural dialogue, sustainability and creative exchange.

The inauguration of the National Pavilion of India on May 6 witnessed strong public interest and participation from diplomats, curators, collectors, artists and cultural leaders from across the world, signalling India's growing cultural footprint on the international stage. The event hosted by the Ministry of Culture drew a distinguished gathering including H.E Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al Thani, industrialists Sunil Munjal, Laxmi Niwas Mittal, Mukesh Ambani, international diplomats, artists, gallerists, art patrons and members of the global creative community.

The India Pavilion has been set up by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India in collaboration with partners including Serendipity Arts Foundation and NMACC. The strong international response to the India Pavilion reflects growing global interest in India's contemporary artistic language, traditional knowledge systems and civilisational imagination, where materials such as bamboo, thread, earth and papier-mache become symbols not merely of craft, but of resilience, sustainability and cultural confidence. (ANI)

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

Zareen Khan shares heartfelt post for late mother on birth anniversary

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 21:31:16 +0530

Actor Zareen Khan is remembering her late mother, Parveen Khan, on her birth anniversary, sharing a heartfelt memory and an old video from her mother's birthday celebrations. Taking to Instagram, Zareen posted a video and wrote, "Happy Birthday Mom. Making sure everyone ate was like her life mission and I'll make sure I continue that..."

'A constant ache and emptiness'

Earlier in April, Zareen opened up about losing her mother with an emotional message on social media. Earlier in April, Zareen had opened up about the loss of her mother through an emotional post on social media, reflecting on her grief, love and the deep void left behind.

In a poignant message, the actor reflected on her bond with her mother, expressing grief, gratitude, and the immense void left behind. "My Mother, my first love, my best friend, my baby, my world, my everything.... It's been 10days that you are gone."

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Zareen Khan ✨ (@zareenkhan)

Noting that she feels a "constant ache and emptiness" without her mother, Zareen further added, "I'm not gonna write some long caption for the world to read bcoz you know exactly what I'm going through right now without you. There's a constant ache and emptiness in my heart which is irreplaceable. Be the Chota baby you always were and enjoy your parents' love in Jannat... Until we meet again."

As per her post, Zareen Khan's mother passed away on April 8, 2026. Along with the post, Zareen also shared a video montage, featuring priceless moments with her mother, showcasing their strong and warm bond. Many reacted to the post, offering heartfelt tributes and condolences to the actor.

On the Work Front

On the work front, Zareen Khan made her Bollywood debut in 2010 with Salman Khan starrer 'Veer'. She also featured in films like 'Ready', 'Housefull 2', 'Hate Story 2' and '1921'. She has also been a part of several music videos. (ANI)

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

Nita Ambani champions Indian craftsmanship at Venice Biennale in Banarasi

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 21:01:22 +0530

Nita Ambani Champions Indian Craftsmanship in Venice

At the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre's celebratory dinner honouring the historic return of India Pavilion at the Venice Biennale, Nita Ambani, founder and chairperson of Reliance Foundation, once again shone a global spotlight on India's timeless craftsmanship. For this special occasion, she chose a Banarasi brocade Kaduwa saree by Swadesh, handwoven for over five months by master-artisans Ashfak Ansari and Habiburrahman, and a delicately structured lace blouse by Manish Malhotra, as per the press release. The look was complemented with a bespoke necklace- the Ratna Riviere - curated by Ambani herself with Burmese rubies, Colombian emeralds, and white and yellow diamonds from her personal collection. Adding a special touch of artistry to her look, she carried a traditional Indian temple-style hand-carved purse featuring gold and rubies. Every thread, stone, and motif was a tribute to the craft, culture, and creativity of India.

Nita Ambani hosted a grand inaugural dinner on the occasion of the opening of the India Pavilion at the 61st International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia. She was joined by her daughter Isha Ambani, with the mother-daughter duo opting for traditional yet contemporary styling for the cultural evening. For the occasion, Nita Ambani wore a shimmering ivory-gold silk sari featuring intricate woven patterns, paired with a matching blouse. She completed her look with colourful gemstone jewellery and a small ornate gold handbag, reflecting a blend of elegance and traditional craftsmanship. Isha Ambani, on the other hand, made a striking appearance in a wine-coloured satin saree-style gown with sculptural pleats and a modern silhouette. The ensemble featured embellished circular jewelled detailing around the neckline and waist, adding a contemporary edge to the traditional-inspired outfit.

A Confluence of Art and Culture

Set within the historic Scuola Grande della Misericordia, the evening brought together leading voices from the global art, culture and fashion world. A post shared by NMACC India described the evening as a cultural exchange celebrating creativity and heritage, stating, "What began as a celebration of the India Pavilion unfolded into a memorable conversation between cultures -- bridging heritage and contemporary expression of the past and present. It was a heartfelt tribute to the artists, the Indian craftsmanship and to the audiences who keep creativity alive."

India Pavilion Presents 'Geographies of Distance'

Earlier, the inauguration of the India Pavilion at the 61st International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia was attended by Mukesh Ambani, Nita Ambani, Isha Ambani, Akash Ambani, Anant Ambani, Shloka Mehta and Radhika Merchant, among others.

According to a press release issued by the Ministry of Culture, the Pavilion of India presented Geographies of Distance: Remembering Home art exhibition, which was curated by Amin Jaffer and presented by the Ministry of Culture in partnership with Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) and Serendipity Arts. It featured works by artists Alwar Balasubramaniam (Bala), Ranjani Shettar, Sumakshi Singh, Skarma Sonam Tashi and Asim Waqif. The exhibition explored the ideas of memory, migration, materiality and belonging through contemporary artistic practices rooted in Indian cultural traditions. (ANI)

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Disha Patani's Hollywood debut 'The Portal of Force' trailer drops

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 20:01:54 +0530

Actor Disha Patani is gearing up for the release of her Hollywood debut 'The Portal of Force', which also stars veteran actor Kevin Spacey. On Friday, the trailer of the film was unveiled.

A New Supernatural Cinematic Universe

The trailer introduces Disha as Jessica, the emotional and narrative epicentre of an epic supernatural showdown between two ancient factions -- the Statiguards and the Holiguards. The Portal of Force, the first film of the Statiguards vs Holiguards Saga, marks the beginning of a new cinematic universe created by Lado Okhotnikov.

At the heart of the story lies a confrontation between two ancient forces: the Statiguards, who stand for order and the rules that hold the world together, and the Holiguards, who live by a very different code. Framed as "the Chosen One," Jessica is revealed to be the daughter of rival leaders on both sides -- a living bridge between warring worlds -- and the ultimate decider in a battle that could determine how this war ends, and humanity's fate along with it.

Disha Patani on Her Hollywood Foray

Excited about her Hollywood foray, Disha in a press note said,"I've waited with bated breath for the trailer of this very special project. Stepping into my first international outing was both thrilling and terrifying - but the scope to explore the craft was massive. Working with an experienced, diverse cast was an education in itself. You realise that storytelling transcends language and geography -- honesty on screen is universal. I've always loved action and to bring what I've learned on the home turf to a global platform feels incredibly empowering."

Upcoming Projects

In the upcoming months, Disha will also be seen in 'Awarapan 2'. (ANI)

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Sidharth Malhotra, Tamannaah Bhatia launch 'The Legend of Vvan' comic

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 20:01:33 +0530

Actors Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia on Saturday stepped out in the city here for the launch of 'The Legend of Vvan' comic at Mumbai Comic Con. Ektaa R Kapoor and Arunabh Kumar were also present at the event.

Sidharth Malhotra, Tamannaah Bhatia's 'Vvan' release date

The launch of the comic comes ahead of the release of Sidharth and Tamannaah's film 'Vvan'. The film will debut in theatres on August 28. While sharing the release date, Taran Adarsh, a month ago, wrote, "Ektaa R Kapoor-TVF join forces: Sidharth Malhotra - Tamannaah Bhatia starrer 'Vvan' release date locked. 28 Aug 2026 [#RakshaBandhan] is the release date of #Vvan, a folklore-driven thriller."

About the folklore-driven thriller

According to a press release shared by the makers, 'Vvan' is set in the deep forests of Central India and is described as a mix of ancient legends, hidden temples, and adventure. It has been shot in real forest locations.

Earlier, a BTS picture from the sets of Vvan was shared by the makers, which gave fans a sneak peek into the cute chemistry between Sidharth and Tamannaah. In the image, Tamannaah can be seen blushing while sitting on a scooter, as Sidharth looks at her affectionately. The film is directed by Deepak Mishra and Arunabh Kumar, and produced by Ekta Kapoor. It is backed by Balaji Motion Pictures in association with The Viral Fever (TVF).

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Vijay Deverakonda celebrates birthday with fans; Rashmika joins him

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 20:01:21 +0530

A Memorable Birthday for Vijay Deverakonda

Actor Vijay Deverakonda was greeted by a sea of cheering fans gathered outside his residence on Saturday, turning his birthday celebrations into a memorable spectacle. Fans in large numbers gathered to catch a glimpse of the actor and shower him with wishes. Responding to the overwhelming love, Vijay also appeared on the balcony of his residence and greeted fans, sending the crowd into a frenzy. The actor was joined by his wife, Rashmika Mandanna, along with family members, who stood beside him warmly acknowledging the fans' affection.

Actor's emotional note to fans

Vijay also took to his Instagram and expressed immense gratitude for receiving much warmth and love on the special day. "To all of you, each and everyone, my dearest rowdy boys and girls, my dear older brothers and sisters, all who are like my parents, all of you always showering me with your love.. I cannot tell you how much i love you your love makes me emotional.. your love makes me want to give everything away.. it makes me feel like i am not doing enough, makes me feel like i need to do a lot more, to give you all a lot more.. i will do it :) I will keep doing it. Because nothing makes me more happy. Again, my love to all of you. You are God's blessing to me," he wrote.

Meanwhile, birthday wishes have been pouring in from across his fans and friends from the industry. The actor's brother, Anand Deverakonda also sent him heartwarming wishes. "This year you celebrate your birthday feeling more complete, with more confidence and courage than ever. Happy birthday bigggg brother!!!" he wrote. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anand Deverakonda (@ananddeverakonda)

'Ranabaali' Glimpse as a Birthday Treat

The film is directed by Rahul Sankrityan and produced by Y Ravi Shankar and Naveen Yerneni under Mythri Movie Makers in association with T-Series. The project also features Rashmika Mandanna and international actor Arnold Vosloo in a key role, adding further global appeal to the ensemble cast. The film is scheduled to release in theatres on September 11, 2026. (ANI)

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

Conner Smith on Life, Music After Fatal Accident That Changed Him

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 20:01:19 +0530

Country singer-songwriter Conner Smith has reflected on his emotional journey back to music nearly a year after a fatal car accident that deeply changed his life, according to People.

A Life-Altering Tragedy

Speaking about the aftermath of the June 2025 collision that claimed the life of 77-year-old Dorothy Dobbins, Smith said the tragedy shifted his perspective on fame, career and personal priorities. "I didn't care about my career or image or reputation or even how I would ever come back from this. I just really didn't care because it just didn't matter," Smith said, as per the outlet.

Dobbins was struck by Smith's Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck while crossing a crosswalk in Nashville and later died at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Reflecting on the incident, the singer said the experience forced him to reassess what truly mattered in life. "In those moments, you see that every side of your life is on fire," he said, adding that the tragedy faced by Dobbins' family remained at the centre of his thoughts. The family later decided to drop Smith's misdemeanor citation earlier this year.

Navigating Faith and Finding Support

The 25-year-old singer also opened up about the emotional and spiritual struggles he faced after the accident. "Why would He allow this?" Smith said while speaking about his faith. "It was such a fluke moment in life and such a tragedy. You can't comprehend it."

Despite the grief and uncertainty, Smith said he gradually found clarity through time, music and the support of his wife Leah. "Tragedy is tragedy, and it plays on everyone differently. But in terms of our marriage, the truth was that all this did was just solidifying and unifying it more than anything ever could," he shared. "She is such a rock. This tragedy reminded me of every reason I chose her as my wife. She embodies peace," he added.

Returning to Music with New Perspective

Smith said the experience transformed him personally and creatively, helping him reconnect with music in a more honest and meaningful way. "I've been given this incredible opportunity and gift to be a part of country music and to write songs for a living," he said. "What matters is that I can do that in a way that's honest, vulnerable, and can connect with people," according to People.

The singer recently returned to the studio to work on new music, including his latest single 'Easy on the Eyes'. "It's been two years of just resetting the foundation. So this song is the first time that I'm like, 'Let's start building again,'" he said. Calling the current phase of his life a "process of healing" and "redemption," Smith added, "I'm able just to take a deep breath again."

The singer is also set to reunite with Thomas Rhett on select dates of The Soundtrack to Life Tour later this year. "I'm so excited to get back on the road and see the fans in person again and thank them for their prayers and patience," Smith said, according to People. (ANI)

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Monia Chokri to preside over Camera d'Or jury at Cannes Festival

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 19:30:39 +0530

Monia Chokri to Head Camera d'Or Jury

Actress, director and screenwriter Monia Chokri has been named president of the Camera d'Or jury at the upcoming Cannes Film Festival, according to Variety. The award is given to a first work across the official selection as well as in the Critics' Week and Directors' Fortnight sections.

"A debut film is a dizzying experience, a defining moment when the soul seeks its form in images," she said in a statement, according to Variety.

An Acclaimed Filmmaker's Perspective

Chokri, known for her performances in' The Age of Darkness' and 'Heartbeats', made her directorial debut in 2019 with 'A Brother's Love', which won the Jury Coup de Coeur prize in the Un Certain Regard section at Cannes, as per the outlet. She later directed Babysitter and The Nature of Love, which premiered in Un Certain Regard in 2023 and went on to win the Cesar Award for Best Foreign Film the following year.

The 79th Festival de Cannes will take place from May 12 to 23 in Cannes, France Reacting to her appointment, Chokri described a debut film as a transformative experience for filmmakers. "It is a second birth -- the awakening of the artist within. An act of truth, it exposes our fragility. And the more the film reveals itself to the world, the more power it gains. It is the rare freedom of being fully oneself," she added, according to Variety.

Jury Composition and Selection

The filmmaker will be joined on the Camera d'Or jury by cinematographer Michel Benjamin, film critic Cedric Coppola, director and screenwriter Marine Francen, and Christophe Massie, deputy CEO of Eclair by Netgem.

The jury members have been selected from associations linked to the Camera d'Or jury, including the French Association of Cinematographers, the French Union of Film Critics, the Society of Film Directors, and the Federation of the Film, Audiovisual and Multimedia Industries, according to Variety. (ANI)

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Khatron Ke Khiladi 15: Shooting begins; check out the contestants list

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 19:01:17 +0530

The shooting for the 15th season of reality TV show 'Khatron Ke Khiladi' is all set to begin. Before the contestants move abroad to participate in the show, on Saturday, a few of them came together for the official launch of the new season in Mumbai.

This time, the lineup of the Rohit Shetty-hosted show includes some ex-contestants, with the addition of new ones.

Khatron Ke Khiladi 15: Confirmed Contestants List

Here's the confirmed contestants list:

1. Rubina Dilaik Rubina Dilaik is a famous television personality. Winner of Bigg Boss 14, Rubina is now eyeing the title of the 15th season of Khatron Ke Khiladi. Notably, she had earlier participated in the 12th season of the stunt-based reality show.

2. Karan Wahi Karan Wahi is back to participate in the new season of Khatron Ke Khiladi. He was part of the most entertaining seasons of Khatron Ke Khiladi season 8.

3. Rithvik Dhanjani Karan Wahi's best friend and former contestant of Khatron Ke Khiladi, Rithvik Dhanjani, will be seen facing new challenges on the upcoming edition of the popular reality show.

4. Avika Gor Actress Avika Gor, best known for her acting stint in Colors' iconic show 'Balika Vadhu', has been roped in for the new season of 'Khatron Ke Khiladi'. She had earlier participated in the 9th season of the Rohit Shetty-hosted show.

5. Jasmin Bhasin It will be interesting to see how Jasmin performs in the new season of Khatron. She had already experienced the game of Khatron with season 9, and later returned for Khatron Ke Khiladi - Made in India in 2020.

6. Gaurav Khanna After securing back-to-back wins in 'Celebrity MasterChef India' and 'Bigg Boss 19', all eyes are now on whether Gaurav Khanna can extend his winning streak in 'Khatron Ke Khiladi'.

7. Farrhana Bhatt Farrhana was last seen as the first runner-up of Bigg Boss 19 (2025). The news of her joining Khatron has left her fans extremely excited.

8. Harsh Gujral It remains to be seen how Harsh Gujral will perform in the stunt-based challenges, but one thing is certain that his presence will bring plenty of entertainment. Viewers can expect a generous dose of humour and witty one-liners from the comedian throughout the show.

9. Orry Social media sensation Orry has also joined the new season of Khatron Ke Khiladi.

10. Ruhaanika Dhawan Ruhaanika. who rose to fame as a child actor in Yeh Hai Mohabbatein, is gearing up for her TV comeback with Khatron Ke Khiladi.

11. Vishal Aditya Singh Bigg Boss 13 fame Vishal Aditya Singh will also be seen in the 15th season of Khatron Ke Khiladi. He had earlier participated in Season 11 and secured the second runner-up position.

12. Avinash Mishra Avinash Mishra, best known for participating in Bigg Boss 18, also attended the launch of 15th season of Khatron Ke Khiladi.

13. Shagun Sharma Television actress Shagun Sharma, who won widespread appreciation for her role as Pari in the popular show Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2, has been finalised as a contestant for the upcoming season of Khatron Ke Khiladi. (ANI)

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Koshur Film Festival 2026 to boost Kashmiri cinema on global stage

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 18:30:43 +0530

The Koshur International Film Festival (KIFF) is all set to take place in the valley, aiming to provide a global platform to Kashmiri cinema, art, and culture. A three-day celebration, the film festival will be held from October 10 to 12, 2026, with people able to witness the screening of local language films. There will be a distribution of awards, including Best Film.

The announcement was made during a news conference addressed by veteran theatre artist and Patron-in-Chief of the festival, MK Raina. Raina shared how the festival will help to bring together filmmakers, artists, writers and cinema enthusiasts from across India and abroad.

A Platform to Showcase Talent

"KIFF will serve as an important platform for promoting regional cinema and encouraging young filmmakers from Jammu and Kashmir to showcase their talent before an international audience," he said.

The festival will feature screenings of feature films, documentaries and short films along with interactive sessions, panel discussions and cultural programmes. It is aimed at strengthening cultural exchange and reviving the rich artistic traditions of Kashmir through cinema and storytelling.

Fostering Collaboration and Economic Growth

The festival is expected to witness participation from noted personalities from the film industry, theatre groups and cultural organisations.

KIFF will also create opportunities for local artists and filmmakers to interact with experienced professionals from the Indian and international film fraternity.

The organisers expressed hope that the festival would help position Kashmir as an emerging destination for film production and cultural events while also boosting tourism and creative industries in Jammu and Kashmir. (ANI)

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Rihanna unveils new tattoo inspired by her three children's artwork

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 18:00:50 +0530

Global pop icon Rihanna has unveiled a new tattoo inspired by artwork created by her three children with rapper A$AP Rocky, according to E! News. The singer recently got a large scribble-style tattoo inked on her left leg by celebrity tattoo artist Bang Bang, whose real name is Keith McCurdy.

Sharing glimpses of the tattoo process on Instagram, Bang Bang (real name Keith McCurdy) revealed that it was "designed by her babies." View this post on Instagram The original artwork was reportedly created using colourful markers and decorated with stickers by Rihanna and A$AP Rocky's children -- sons Rza, 3, and Riot, 2, along with daughter Rocki, who is seven months old. However, Rihanna chose to recreate the drawing in a simpler all-black tattoo design.

In one of the videos shared online, the singer joked about the tattooing experience, saying, "The torture I've endured in this shop." In another clip, she humorously added, "Make sure my....looks good in the main shots."

Rihanna's History with Tattoo Artist Bang Bang

This is not the first time Rihanna has collaborated with Bang Bang for body art. The tattoo artist is also known for creating the henna-inspired design on her right hand, which extended a Maori tattoo the singer had first received in 2013.

Children's Budding Musical Talents

Apart from showcasing artistic creativity through drawings, Rihanna recently revealed that her children are also developing an interest in music. Speaking in a 2025 interview, the singer said, "Both of them love music. They love instruments."

"I don't know who they get it from more. I'm like, 'Is that me or is that you, Rocky?'" she added.

Rihanna also shared that her younger son Riot enjoys freestyling, saying, "Riot, he likes to freestyle. So, that's definitely a Rocky thing."

A$AP Rocky on Sons' Personalities

Meanwhile, A$AP Rocky recently opened up about the personalities of their sons, joking that Riot is more talkative. "Rza don't be talking. That's Riot. He can't stop running his mouth," the rapper said in an interview earlier this year, according to E! News.

He also humorously recalled the bond between the siblings, saying, "Rza used to bully the... out of Riot when Riot couldn't walk and talk. Now Riot go take that boy's book from him, take his pacifier," according to E! News. (ANI)

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

Anand wishes Vijay on birthday, shares pics from 'wedding festivities'

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 18:00:19 +0530

Brother Anand Deverakonda Pens Heartfelt Birthday Wish

Actor Anand Deverakonda penned a heartfelt birthday wish for his brother and actor Vijay Deverakonda, celebrating his growth, confidence and journey over the years. Taking to his Instagram handle, Anand shared a carousel of pictures of what appeared to be from Vijay and Rashmika Mandanna's wedding festivities. The pictures show Anand adorably capturing the couple in the camera, followed by another set of heartwarming family glimpses. "This year you celebrate your birthday feeling more complete, with more confidence and courage than ever. Happy birthday bigggg brother!!!" he wrote.

Vijay Deverakonda, who is celebrating his birthday on Saturday, marked the occasion by stepping out to meet fans gathered outside his residence, where he also cut a cake with them.

'Ranabaali' Makers Unveil Special BTS Video

On the professional front, the makers of his upcoming film 'Ranabaali' unveiled a special behind-the-scenes video showcasing the actor's intense horse-riding training and physical preparation for his role as a warrior in the period action drama. In the video, Vijay is referred to as a "Stallion," with the makers urging audiences to get ready to witness "peak Vijay in peak cinema."

The video showcases the actor undergoing rigorous physical preparation and mastering horse riding as part of his transformation for a fierce warrior role in the period action drama. The BTS glimpse highlights Vijay Deverakonda's discipline, endurance and commitment to the demanding role, further amplifying buzz around the film.

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

Adnan Sami's dramatic new look goes viral; fans intrigued, impressed

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 17:31:28 +0530

Iconic singer-composer Adnan Sami has grabbed attention on social media after unveiling his dramatic new look that has left fans intrigued and impressed. The singer recently shared a striking image on his Instagram account, showcasing himself in a bold and visually distinct avatar that quickly went viral among fans and followers.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ADNAN SAMI (@adnansamiworld)

Fan reactions to cinematic transformation

In the image, Sami is seen dressed in an intricately layered traditional outfit paired with statement jewellery, bold rings, tattoos and expressive eye detailing. The overall styling blended vintage aesthetics with a contemporary edge, looking cinematic and theatrical.

Fans across social media platforms were quick to react to the transformation, praising the singer's experimental style and strong screen presence. One of the social media users wrote, "Unbelievable", while another commented, "Epic overall" Several users dropped heart and fire emojis, and others mentioned, "What looking"

Though Sami has not revealed the inspiration or purpose behind the makeover, the image has sparked widespread curiosity online, with fans speculating about a possible new project or creative venture in the works.

A look at Adnan Sami's work and achievements

Talking about his work front and achievements, the ace singer received the prestigious Padma Shri Award in 2020.

Adnan Sami has sung several hit songs, including 'Mujhko Bhi Toh Lift Kara De', 'Tera Chehra', 'Kabhi To Nazar Milao', 'Tu Sirf Mera Mehboob', and 'Kuch Pyar Bhi Kar', among others. (ANI)

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Arjun Rampal calls 'Dhurandhar' a career milestone, feels grateful

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 17:30:34 +0530

Bollywood actor Arjun Rampal has expressed gratitude for being a part of 'Dhurandhar: The Revenge', calling the project a significant milestone in his career and crediting filmmaker Aditya Dhar for trusting him with the role of Major Iqbal. Rampal said he does not see his journey in terms of satisfaction but rather gratitude, adding that he feels guided by a higher power and is content with the opportunities he has received. "It's not about being satisfied, I am grateful. Whatever is happening in my life, God's hand is on my head. The decisions that I have taken so far, I can see the fruits of them. The sacrifices that I have made, the way I want to evolve, I am very grateful that I have got such opportunities," he told ANI. The actor also thanked audiences for supporting his work and said being part of a large-scale film like 'Dhurandhar' is important in any actor's career. While speaking at the launch event of a watch, Rampal said, "Such a big film is a dream for people. Coming to such a film in a person's career is very important. You become part of history, in a way. When you are a part of such a film, everyone benefits from it," said Rampal.

On Working with Aditya Dhar

Recalling how he was cast in the role of Major Iqbal, Rampal revealed that director Aditya Dhar believed he could bring a unique dimension to the character. "I asked him how he saw me in this role when he was narrating the script to me. He said, 'I have seen all your films. I know that whatever you bring in this role will be very different.' That is how our journey started. Everything else is history," he added. Praising Aditya Dhar's working style, Rampal said the filmmaker ensures creative freedom across all departments while maintaining a strong vision for the project. "Aditya is a director who gives a lot of importance to every department. He gives a lot of respect. He gives a lot of freedom. He gives you a good platform and foundation, but it is not that you have to do only this. You can bring something else," he said. The actor noted that Dhar's openness extended beyond the cast to every member of the crew, including hair, makeup, costumes, music, action and dialogue teams. "That was a very infectious thing. All the departments had so much freedom because of Aditya Dhar. There was so much openness in his mind," Rampal said.

About the 'Dhurandhar' Franchise

Directed by Aditya Dhar and backed by Jio Studios and B62 Studios, the film features a strong cast including Akshaye Khanna, R Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal and Sara Arjun. The music by Shashwat Sachdev has also received a strong response on digital platforms. Meanwhile, 'Dhurandhar 2' is continuing its successful box office journey in India. The sequel stars Ranveer Singh in the lead role along with Sara Arjun, Gaurav Gera, Sanjay Dutt, R Madhavan, Rakesh Bedi and Arjun Rampal. The films are produced by Jyoti Deshpande, Aditya Dhar and Lokesh Dhar under the banners of Jio Studios and B62 Studios. (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Who is S. A. Chandrasekhar? All About TVK Leader Thalapathy Vijay’s Father

Nancy Tiwari — Sat, 09 May 2026 17:03:05 +0530

As TVK creates waves in the 2026 Tamil Nadu elections, attention has shifted to Vijay’s father S. A. Chandrasekhar. The veteran filmmaker not only launched Vijay’s acting career but also strongly supports his political journey.

S. A. Chandrasekhar, popularly known as SAC, is a veteran Tamil filmmaker, producer and writer. Born in Tamil Nadu in 1945, he began directing films in the late 1970s and went on to helm over 70 movies across Tamil, Telugu and Hindi cinema, earning recognition for socially driven commercial entertainers.

SAC played a major role in shaping Vijay’s film career. He introduced Vijay as a lead actor in Naalaiya Theerpu in 1992 and continued supporting him through his early acting years. Over time, Vijay became one of Tamil cinema’s biggest superstars with a massive fan following across South India.

S. A. Chandrasekhar’s wife, Shoba Chandrasekhar, is a singer, writer and filmmaker. The Chandrasekhar family has long been associated with the Tamil entertainment industry. Their strong cinema background helped create Vijay’s early public image, which later transformed into a larger-than-life personality admired by audiences and political supporters alike.

As Vijay entered politics through Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), SAC openly backed his son’s political ambitions. Though there were occasional reports of differences between them earlier, SAC has defended Vijay during political controversies and election campaigns. He believes Vijay’s popularity and clean image can bring major political change in Tamil Nadu.

The 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections brought TVK into the spotlight after the party emerged as a major political force. Vijay’s rise disrupted the long-standing dominance of DMK and AIADMK, creating huge excitement among supporters. Amid coalition discussions and government formation talks, SAC once again grabbed attention as the father behind Tamil Nadu’s newest political sensation.

'Ranabaali': Makers unveil Vijay Deverakonda's intense BTS video

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 17:00:39 +0530

BTS video showcases Vijay's warrior training

Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna starrer 'Ranabaali' continues to be one of the most anticipated films of the year, with the makers keeping the excitement high among fans since its official announcement. On the occasion of Vijay Deverakonda's birthday on Saturday, the makers unveiled a striking special behind-the-scenes video featuring the actor's intense horse-riding training sessions.

In the video, Vijay is referred to as a "Stallion," with the makers urging audiences to get ready to witness "peak Vijay in peak cinema." The video showcases the actor undergoing rigorous physical preparation and mastering horse riding as part of his transformation for a fierce warrior role in the period action drama. The BTS glimpse highlights Vijay Deverakonda's discipline, endurance and commitment to the demanding role, further amplifying buzz around the film.

About 'Ranabaali'

The makers also shared that 'Ranabaali' is a historical action drama inspired by forgotten chapters of India's past and is set in the colonial era. Vijay Deverakonda will be seen portraying a powerful warrior, while Rashmika Mandanna plays his wife, Jayamma.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by RANABAALI FILM (@ranabaalifilm)

"Ranabaali is a historical action drama inspired by forgotten chapters from India's past, set during the colonial era. The film stars Vijay Deverakonda as a fierce warrior, while Rashmika Mandanna plays his wife, Jayamma," the makers shared, as per a press release.

Cast, Crew and Release Date

The film is directed by Rahul Sankrityan and produced by Y Ravi Shankar and Naveen Yerneni under Mythri Movie Makers in association with T-Series. The project also features international actor Arnold Vosloo in a key role, adding further global appeal to the ensemble cast. The film is scheduled to release in theatres on September 11, 2026. (ANI)

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

Isha Ambani’s Met Gala Look Sparks Debate Over Abhishek Bachchan’s Iconic Wedding Jewellery

Asianet Newsable English — Sat, 09 May 2026 16:23:26 +0530

A viral internet theory claims the Bachchans may have sold a historic emerald heirloom to the Ambanis after fans spotted similarities between Abhishek Bachchan’s wedding jewel and Isha Ambani’s Met Gala accessory.

The internet has spotted a shocking similarity between two high-profile jewellery pieces. One is the emerald headpiece Abhishek Bachchan wore when he married Aishwarya Rai in 2007. The other is an emerald jewel Isha Ambani used as a back accessory for her blouse at the recent Met Gala. The resemblance is just too much to ignore!

You think Gen Z netizens who follow entertainment news would stay quiet? No chance! Platforms like Reddit are buzzing with some serious detective work. Fans are putting photos of the two jewels side-by-side and raising a whole lot of questions.

Also read: Inside PHOTOS of Shilpa Shetty’s Stunning 5.2-Acre ‘Kinara’ Mansion in Juhu

Some people are getting straight to the point. Their direct question is, 'The Bachchan family must have sold this historic piece of jewellery to the Ambani family.' This is the most popular theory doing the rounds.However, some fashion lovers with a keen eye are noticing a difference. They argue that the colour of the emeralds and the shine of Isha's jewel look different from Abhishek's. Their theory is that Isha wore a high-quality original piece, while Abhishek's might have been a designer re-creation for the wedding.Some people are just having a laugh about the whole thing. 'This is a rich people's game!' one person joked. 'They wear historic jewels on their head for a wedding, and then someone else styles it on a blouse.'

It is widely believed that the Bachchan family's jewellery are heirlooms passed down through generations. But 'Jade by Monica and Karishma' designed Isha Ambani's Met Gala outfit. So, did they just modernise an Ambani family heirloom, or is this all a coincidence? Whatever the truth, this 'emerald' mystery has given Bollywood fans a new topic to discuss.

Also read: Diljit Dosanjh to Enter Punjab Politics Anytime Soon? Here’s What the Singer Said

Inside PHOTOS of Shilpa Shetty’s Stunning 5.2-Acre ‘Kinara’ Mansion in Juhu

Nancy Tiwari — Sat, 09 May 2026 16:16:05 +0530

Shilpa Shetty lives with husband Raj Kundra and their children in Kinara, a luxurious sea-facing mansion in Mumbai’s Juhu area. Spread across 5.2 acres, the lavish property reflects luxury, comfort, wellness and elegant family living.

Reports suggest Shilpa Shetty owns assets worth nearly ₹150 crore. Combined with businessman Raj Kundra’s successful ventures, the couple has built enormous wealth, including their luxurious sea-facing Mumbai mansion, Kinara, reportedly valued at over ₹100 crore in Juhu.

Though the exact size remains unknown, the two-storey Kinara bungalow features huge glass windows, stunning sea views and a spacious garden. Located in Mumbai’s premium Juhu area, the property sits in one of the city’s costliest neighbourhoods, where sea-facing land prices exceed ₹40,000 per sq ft.

Shilpa Shetty designed Kinara with a blend of luxury and wellness. The lavish home includes a private gym, kitchen garden, fountain, bar, glass flooring and a leather-finished lift. Antique mirrors, chandeliers, wooden interiors and a life-sized horse sculpture further elevate the mansion’s grand aesthetic.

The mansion’s entrance features silver elephant sculptures, lotus carvings and elegant LED lighting. Shilpa Shetty’s love for fitness is reflected in the fully equipped gym, while the home’s kitchen garden highlights the family’s focus on healthy living and sustainability.

The bungalow features an indoor fountain that adds a peaceful atmosphere to the interiors. A stylish leather-finished lift connects the different floors, while spacious dining areas, a private bar and dramatic glass-floor sections make the home ideal for hosting lavish parties and gatherings.

The luxurious home perfectly reflects Shilpa Shetty’s lifestyle philosophy, blending elegance, wellness and personal comfort. More than just a status symbol, Kinara serves as a peaceful sanctuary that showcases her love for balanced and luxurious living.

The kitchen garden is more than just a luxury feature. It reflects the family’s eco-friendly lifestyle, allowing them to grow fresh vegetables and herbs at home while promoting healthy and environmentally conscious living.

Shilpa Shetty’s commitment to fitness and holistic living is clearly reflected in Kinara. From a fully equipped home gym to an organic kitchen garden, the mansion highlights her dedication to health, wellness and a balanced lifestyle.

With stunning sea-facing views, a private elevator and premium interiors, the mansion offers both exclusivity and elegance. The luxurious property not only serves as a valuable investment but also provides a comfortable and sophisticated family home experience.

Diljit Dosanjh to Enter Punjab Politics Anytime Soon? Here’s What the Singer Said

Nancy Tiwari — Sat, 09 May 2026 15:15:23 +0530

Rumours about Diljit Dosanjh entering Punjab politics have been making headlines after a public appeal named him as a possible leader. The singer has now responded, addressing speculation about his future plans and career direction.

Actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh has put an end to speculation about entering Punjab politics after a public appeal suggested him as a potential leader. The discussion gained attention after a newspaper article and civil society group proposed his name, but the singer quickly responded to clear the air.

The buzz began after an article questioned whether Diljit could become a fresh political face for Punjab. A group of civil society members, including retired officials and ex-soldiers, reportedly supported the idea due to his clean image, popularity, and wide public influence.

Responding on social media platform X, Diljit directly dismissed the idea, saying: “Kadey v Nhi… Mera Kam Entertainment Karna… Am Very Happy in My Field. Thank You So Much.” His statement made it clear that he has no interest in entering politics and remains focused on his entertainment career.

During his international tours, Diljit also addressed criticism and labels he often faces in India. He said he continues to face mixed reactions but chooses to stay focused on his work. The singer emphasized that he aims to promote Punjabi culture globally through music and performances.

Drishyam 3 Advance Booking Boom: Mohanlal Starrer Creates Massive Buzz Worldwide; Check Here

Nancy Tiwari — Sat, 09 May 2026 14:54:56 +0530

Fans are highly excited for the Mohanlal-starrer Drishyam 3, which is still days away from its official release. Despite limited advance booking openings, the film has already started making headlines for its strong pre-release performance across global markets.

Strong Advance Bookings Across Markets

The advance bookings for Drishyam 3 have shown an impressive start, with reports suggesting that the film has already collected over ₹2 crore worldwide. The huge demand reflects the popularity of the franchise and the massive fan following of Mohanlal, who continues to dominate Malayalam cinema.

US Response Breaks Early Records

The US market has responded particularly strongly. Reports say that 1000 tickets were sold within just 97 hours for the premiere shows scheduled on May 20. The film has also earned around $15,000 (₹14.16 lakh) from early pre-sales alone, making it one of the fastest Malayalam films to reach this milestone after L2: Empuraan.

Opening Weekend Momentum Builds

According to US distributor Prathyangira Cinemas, Drishyam 3 has already crossed $25,000 in advance bookings for its opening weekend. Interestingly, full-scale bookings have not yet opened, and only limited fan shows in Kerala are currently available. Even with these restrictions, the film’s momentum continues to grow rapidly.

Franchise Power Driving Expectations

The Drishyam franchise is considered one of the most successful thriller series in Indian cinema. With strong storytelling and loyal fan support, expectations for the third installment are extremely high. Trade experts believe that once full bookings open, Drishyam 3 could set new records in both domestic and international markets, especially in the US, which has become a key region for Malayalam films.

4 Key WWE SmackDown Moves Triple H Masterminded Before Backlash Showdown

Vaishnav Akash — Sat, 09 May 2026 14:25:00 +0530

Triple H reshaped WWE SmackDown ahead of Backlash. From Cody Rhodes’ clash with Gunther to Fatal Influence’s rise, plus a shocking Gingerbread Man twist, the episode delivered fresh angles and momentum without relying on tired storylines.

After weeks of ambushes, Cody Rhodes finally turned the tables on Gunther. The American Nightmare evaded multiple sleeper hold attempts and knocked the Austrian down several times, embarrassing the so‑called Career Killer. While not full revenge, it humbled Gunther and set the stage for their Undisputed WWE Championship clash in Italy.

The faction of Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, and Lainey Reid continued their surge. They defeated Rhea Ripley, Charlotte Flair, and Alexa Bliss in a six‑woman tag match, then confronted Women’s Tag Team Champions Paige and Brie Bella. Triple H’s booking gave them momentum and credibility, ensuring the group remains a major threat in the division.

SmackDown closed with Trick Williams mourning the Gingerbread Man, only for Sami Zayn to interrupt. The shock came when Lil Yachty revealed himself under the costume, ambushing Zayn. The crowd erupted, and Williams stood tall, signaling his rise as he heads into Backlash against the Canadian star.

The six‑woman tag bout wasn’t just filler, it was a highlight. Fatal Influence and the trio of Ripley, Flair, and Bliss delivered a fast‑paced contest filled with near‑falls and charisma. Triple H ensured the women’s division had prime time, proving its depth and entertainment value ahead of Backlash.

Inside Prithvi Shaw’s ₹10.5 Crore Bandra Apartment With Private Pool, Sea Views & Luxury Interiors [PHOTOS]

Vaishnav Akash — Sat, 09 May 2026 13:40:55 +0530

Step into Prithvi Shaw’s ultra-luxurious Bandra residence. From panoramic sea views to a private pool, his home redefines elite living in Mumbai’s most coveted neighborhood.

Prithvi Shaw’s residence sits in Bandra’s prestigious 81 Aureate Tower, perched on the eighth floor. The location offers uninterrupted views of the Arabian Sea, making sunsets a daily spectacle. Bandra itself is known for its celebrity residents, chic cafes, and upscale vibe, adding to the exclusivity of his address.

The apartment boasts a carpet area of 2,209 square feet, designed with a blend of wooden and marble flooring. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, while soft-toned furnishings create a calming atmosphere. Every corner reflects understated luxury, balancing comfort with elegance.

One of the standout features is the 1,654-square-foot terrace. It’s not just expansive but also functional, offering space for outdoor lounging, entertaining guests, or simply soaking in the sea breeze. The terrace transforms into a personal retreat, away from the buzz of Mumbai’s fast-paced life.

Adding to the grandeur, Shaw’s terrace includes a private pool. This amenity elevates the home into a resort-like experience, allowing him to unwind in complete privacy. Few apartments in Mumbai offer such luxury, making this feature a rare indulgence.

Bandra is home to Bollywood stars, business tycoons, and sports icons. Living here means access to high-end restaurants, designer boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. Shaw’s choice of residence places him among Mumbai’s most influential circles, reinforcing his status both on and off the field.

Reportedly valued at Rs 10.5 crore, the apartment is more than just a home, it’s a statement of success. The combination of prime location, lavish amenities, and architectural finesse makes it one of the most desirable properties in the city. For Shaw, it’s a lifestyle upgrade that mirrors his rising career.

The Devil Wears Prada 3? Director David Frankel open to another sequel

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 13:30:51 +0530

Seems like director David Frankel is not ruling out the possibility of a third 'The Devil Wears Prada' film anytime soon. After the strong response to 'The Devil Wears Prada 2', the filmmaker shared that he would "love" to revisit the popular characters again if the right opportunity comes along.

The sequel recently brought back the original cast, including Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci, nearly 20 years after the first film was released. Following the film's box office success, talks around a possible third part have started once again among fans.

'I certainly would never say, "Never again," again'

While speaking to Variety, Frankel admitted that he never expected to return for a second film after the original movie. However, he said he would not completely shut the door on another sequel. Talking about the possibility of coming back to the world of 'The Devil Wears Prada' once again and spending time with the "wonderful actors" from the franchise, Frankel said, "Look, it took us 20 years to do this one. And I said, "Never again," and here we are. So, I certainly would never say, "Never again," again. Let's see what happens. If there was an opportunity to revisit the characters and to share a few months with these wonderful actors again, obviously, I'd love it."

Balancing nostalgia in the sequel

Frankel also spoke about adding callbacks and references from the original movie into the sequel. From Andy brushing her teeth in the opening montage to the "identical belts" scene and the famous "cerulean sweater" reference, the filmmaker shared that several nostalgic moments were carefully added into the film. Speaking about balancing those references without overdoing them, he said, "There were little things, like the belts, that were late in the game additions. Other things, like the cerulean sweater and lines like, "A million girls would kill for this job," were easy to do. Then we had to go through and edit some out because [if there were] too many, you'd get a little annoyed with us."

'The Devil Wears Prada 2' was released in theatres on May 1, 2026, and has received a positive response from critics as well as moviegoers. (ANI)

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

Khatron Ke Khiladi 15 Fees: Rubina Dilaik vs Gaurav Khanna — Who Is the Highest-Paid Star This Season?

Nancy Tiwari — Sat, 09 May 2026 13:07:00 +0530

Rohit Shetty’s Khatron Ke Khiladi 15, themed ‘Darr Ka Naya Daur’, is set for a grand return with TV stars and influencers facing extreme stunts. The big buzz remains—who will be the highest-paid contestant this season?

After a break of almost a year, Rohit Shetty is returning with Khatron Ke Khiladi Season 15. The makers have officially announced 13 confirmed contestants for the new season. The theme this time is “Darr Ka Naya Daur”, making it clear that the stunts will be more dangerous and high-voltage than ever. The show is already creating huge buzz on social media, and fans are eagerly waiting to see their favourite stars perform risky stunts.

Reports say Khatron Ke Khiladi 15 will once again be shot in Cape Town, South Africa. The franchise has used this international location for several past seasons due to its challenging landscapes and cinematic appeal.

This season is expected to be even more thrilling, featuring high mountains, dangerous water stunts, and extreme adventure tasks. The makers are planning to raise the bar with bigger visuals, grand production, and more intense stunt sequences than before.

This time, names like Gaurav Khanna, Farhana Bhatt, Avinash Mishra, Orry, Harsh Gujral, Shagun Sharma, and Ruhanika Dhawan are reportedly confirmed. The challenger lineup also includes Karan Wahi, Rubina Dilaik, Rithvik Dhanjani, Vishal Aditya Singh, Jasmin Bhasin, and Avika Gor. The presence of these popular TV and social media faces has significantly increased audience interest. Orry and Gaurav Khanna, in particular, are being widely discussed on social media.

When it comes to fees, Rubina Dilaik is the name on everyone’s lips. According to reports, she earned around ₹5 lakh per week during Bigg Boss 14. Later, during her appearance in Khatron Ke Khiladi 12, reports suggested her fee ranged between ₹10–₹15 lakh per episode.

Her strong popularity in the TV industry and prior reality show experience could make her one of the highest-paid contestants this season. Fans also believe Rubina is set to take home a hefty paycheck this time.

‘Anupamaa’ fame Gaurav Khanna’s name is also reportedly at the top of the list of highest-paid contestants. As per reports, he earned around ₹17.5 lakh per week on Bigg Boss 19. With his growing fan following and strong television presence, industry experts believe he may have been offered a hefty fee for Khatron Ke Khiladi 15 as well. Many social media users feel Gaurav Khanna could be the biggest game-changer this season.

Although the makers have not officially revealed any contestant’s fee yet, the buzz is strongly centred around Rubina Dilaik and Gaurav Khanna. Both stars enjoy a massive fan base, strong television popularity, and solid reality show experience, which places them ahead of other contestants.

Now, fans are eagerly waiting for Khatron Ke Khiladi 15 to go on air to find out who ultimately turns out to be the highest-paid contestant of the season.

Mahesh Babu's 'Rao Bahadur' starring Satya Dev gets new release date

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 13:00:30 +0530

Rao Bahadur Gets New Release Date

Mahesh Babu's production house GMB Entertainment has announced a new release date for its upcoming film 'Rao Bahadur', starring Satya Dev in the lead role. The psychological thriller, directed by Venkatesh Maha, was earlier scheduled to release on June 5, 2026. The makers have now postponed the film and locked July 3, 2026, as the new release date.

On Saturday, the makers shared a new poster of the film on social media along with the announcement. The caption on the post read, "A nEW DATE. An UnORgETTABLE CInEMA ExPERIEnCE. #RaoBahadur in cinemas worldwide from rd JULY . RAO BAHADUR /. Remember - 'Doubt is a Demon'." View this post on Instagram

Teaser and First Look Details

The teaser for Mahesh Babu Productions' much-awaited film 'Rao Bahadur' was unveiled last year. It was shared by SS Rajamouli and gives a glimpse into a dark and mystical world. The film is described as a "psychological drama" with touches of mystical realism, promising a unique cinematic journey.

Earlier, the makers had also unveiled the first-look poster of the film. The poster featured Satya Dev in a royal look, surrounded by peacock feathers and decorative elements. It also showed children hanging onto his outfit and moustache, adding a quirky touch to the visuals.

The movie is directed by Venkatesh Maha and presented by Mahesh Babu. Mahesh Babu and Namrata Shirodkar's GMB Entertainment are backing the project. Before this, the first look at the film was unveiled. The poster featured Satyadev in the ensemble of a king, surrounded by peacock feathers and ornate details. It also depicts kids hanging onto Satyadev's attire and moustache, offering a humorous touch to the narrative. (ANI)

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

Demi Lovato enjoys fun-filled Disney World trip with husband Jutes

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 12:30:48 +0530

Actor-singer Demi Lovato recently gave fans a glimpse into her fun-filled vacation at Walt Disney World Resort with husband Jutes. Lovato, on Friday, took to Instagram to share a series of pictures from their Disney trip. The photos showed the couple enjoying rides, spending quality time together, and posing happily at the theme park. Along with the pictures, Lovato wrote, "i love tour, i love @jutesmusic, i love @waltdisneyworld #waltdisneyworld." Take a look View this post on Instagram A post shared by Demi Lovato (@ddlovato)

A Special Duet

The post comes shortly after the couple shared a special moment together during Lovato's "It's Not That Deep" tour concert at Madison Square Garden on April 24. According to PEOPLE magazine, during the show, Lovato invited Jutes on stage, and the couple performed the popular song "Iris" by Goo Goo Dolls together.

An 'Iconic' Wedding Moment

The song holds a special place in their relationship. In fact, Goo Goo Dolls frontman John Rzeznik also performed "Iris" during Lovato and Jutes' wedding in California in May 2025.

Talking about the special wedding moment during an appearance on the Zach Sang Show in December, Jutes, as per PEOPLE, said, "That's like one of the coolest things. That was, in the moment, me and Demi were looking at each other, and I was just like, 'What's going on right now?!' I was like, 'This is the most iconic song ever. He's right there, and it's for us!'"

Later, Goo Goo Dolls also shared a black-and-white picture from the couple's first dance on Instagram and wrote, "It was an absolute pleasure attending the wedding of @ddlovato & @jutesmusic and performing 'Iris' during their first dance together as husband & wife."

A Supportive Partnership

Lovato and Jutes have been together since 2022 and got engaged in December 2023.

In an earlier interview with PEOPLE in September 2024, Lovato had spoken warmly about her relationship and said, "You know, I've waited my whole life for him. It's very grounding to have a partner that is so supportive, so loving, so caring. It's very easy to stay centered with him because I love him so much and he treats me so amazing." (ANI)

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

'Fame', 'Miami Vice' producer Tony Amatullo dies at 76 in New York

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 12:01:11 +0530

Television producer and former Warner Bros. production executive Tony Amatullo has died at the age of 76, Deadline said.

According to his family, he passed away on May 3 in New York City after battling acute myeloid leukaemia. He was diagnosed with the illness last August.

Early Life and Education

Born Anthony Eugene Amatullo Jr. on July 14, 1949, in Manhattan's Hell's Kitchen neighbourhood, Amatullo studied Film, Cinema and Video Studies at the City University of New York before moving to Los Angeles to build a career in entertainment.

A Prolific Career

Amatullo worked on several popular television shows and films during his long career. He served as associate producer on hit series like 'Fame' and 'Miami Vice'. He also worked as a location manager on Steven Spielberg's films 'The Goonies' and 'The Color Purple'.

From 2000 to 2005, he worked as Vice President of Production at Warner Bros. During that time, he was involved with major shows including 'ER', 'The West Wing', 'Third Watch' and the pilot episode of 'Nip/Tuck'.

Later in his career, Amatullo supported independent film and television projects. He worked as executive producer on the reality series 'Beverly Hills Pawn' and also on the film 'Two Days in the Valley'. His final project was the 2021 film 'Surviving on LES', which was based on the changing landscape of Manhattan's Lower East Side. Amatullo produced, directed and co-wrote the film.

Tony Amatullo is survived by his wife, Mariana Amatullo and sons Nico and Leo Amatullo. (ANI)

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

Tovino Thomas: 'You're a Christian, How Could You Cheat?' Malayalam Actor Shares Funny College Story

Richa Barua — Sat, 09 May 2026 11:36:01 +0530

Tovino Thomas and Basil Joseph are starring together in a new movie called 'Atiradi'. In the film, Basil plays a college student named Samboy, while Tovino plays a character named Sreekuttan Vellayani. This is the first film directed by Arun Anirudhan, who was the co-writer for 'Minnal Murali'. The movie is set to release in theatres on May 14.

During a promotional event for the film, Tovino Thomas shared a very funny story from his college days. He recalled being caught cheating in an exam hall and how his teacher scolded him, saying, "You're a Christian, aren't you? How could you do this? Go and confess your sin in church."

"I have used 'chits' in exams, and I've also been caught," Tovino said with a laugh. "Back then, we had micro-xerox. You could shrink notes from a large page into a tiny printout. We would fold them and hide them everywhere. Three of us friends, who sat near each other based on our roll numbers, divided five chits each. My friend Vimal and I were sitting side-by-side, but Shehnaz was a bit far away. When I saw the question paper, all the questions were from my chits! I was so happy," Tovino said.

"I looked up and saw both my friends staring at me. I managed to flip a chit to the guy next to me. But the friend sitting at the end was looking at me helplessly. I had no idea how to pass it to him. I realised if I kept worrying about him, I would fail myself, so I started writing, hiding the chit inside my question paper," he explained.

"After a while, I felt someone touch my leg. I looked down, and it was my friend! He had crawled past four desks, avoiding the teacher's eyes, just like in 'Tom and Jerry'. I gave him the chit, but watching him go back made me super tense. In college, everyone had the wrong impression that I was a 'decent' boy. The teacher saw the panic on my face and probably felt sorry for me, thinking I didn't know the answers. She even offered to help me out of pity," Tovino described.

"I started writing again, but when I had to turn the page, there it was... the 'bit' paper. She caught me right away and made me stand outside. At the time, I used to wear a rosary for style, not because I was very religious. The teacher asked me, 'Being a Christian, how could you do this?' I just said, 'Sorry, it was a mistake.' She felt bad for me seeing my face.

'Teacher, give me the bit paper back!'

"She told me, 'You must mention this in your confession.' I promised her I would. 'Alright, go and write the rest of your exam,' she said. I took two steps, then turned back and asked, 'Teacher, can I have the bit paper back?' That was it. She threw me out of the hall. How was I supposed to write without it? But my two friends passed the exam," Tovino said, laughing. He shared this story during an interview with Movieman Broadcasting.

Actress Manju Warrier Secretly Learned Horse Riding in Aluva for a Month - Read On

Nancy Tiwari — Sat, 09 May 2026 11:34:51 +0530

Actress Manju Warrier secretly learned horse riding in Aluva for a month with early morning training sessions. Reports say the actress travelled in disguise to avoid attention and quickly mastered riding, impressing her trainer and close friends.

Popular Malayalam actress Manju Warrier recently surprised fans after reports revealed that she had been secretly learning horse riding in Aluva, Kerala. Known for her adventurous personality and love for trying new things, the actress reportedly underwent professional training for nearly a month at the Aluva Shivaratri Manappuram grounds.

According to reports, Manju Warrier trained under horse riding instructor George Diaz from Thottakkattukara in Aluva. She learned riding on George’s female horse named ‘Lora’. To avoid public attention, the actress followed a disciplined routine and arrived at the training ground as early as 5 AM every day.

She reportedly trained continuously for two hours each morning before leaving the location ahead of the regular crowd rush. Her trainer shared that Manju was extremely dedicated and managed to learn the basics of horse riding within just a week. Soon after, she confidently started riding on her own without assistance.

To keep the horse riding lessons private, Manju reportedly travelled from her flat in Ernakulam to Aluva on a bike. She wore a jacket and cap during the journey so that people would not easily recognise her. Her low-profile approach helped her continue the training sessions quietly for an entire month.

The actress has often been praised for her adventurous spirit. Apart from acting, she is already known as an enthusiastic bike rider and frequently takes part in long rides and travel adventures.

Interestingly, Manju Warrier was not alone during the training sessions. Actors Sunny Wayne and Siju Wilson, along with film producer Binesh Chandran, also joined the horse riding practice at Aluva Manappuram.

After their early morning sessions, the group would reportedly enjoy breakfast together at eateries on Old Desam Road. It was Siju Wilson, a native of Aluva, who introduced Manju to trainer George Diaz.

Manju May Soon Buy Her Own Horse

Reports also suggest that Manju Warrier has developed a strong interest in horse riding and may even purchase her own horse in the future. Her latest hobby has once again impressed fans, who admire the actress for constantly exploring new experiences beyond cinema.

Rabindra Jayanti 2026: 10 Rare Photos of Rabindranath Tagore You Probably Haven't Seen!

Richa Barua — Sat, 09 May 2026 11:09:36 +0530

Rabindranath Tagore was the first non-European and Indian to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913. As we mark his 162nd birth anniversary, let's take a trip down memory lane with these rare pictures from the Nobel laureate's life.In 1913, Tagore made history. He became the first non-European and the first Indian lyricist to win the Nobel Prize in Literature. On his 162nd birth anniversary, we look back at the amazing life of this legend.Here, the famous American author Helen Keller meets our very own Kobiguru. The two posed for this photo in New York back in 1930.This exclusive photo captures the world-famous Tagore during his visit to London. He is seen here relaxing on the terrace of his hotel in the city.Students surround writer Rabindranath Tagore at his university, Visva Bharati. This picture was taken in Santiniketan, West Bengal, in 1929.This powerful picture from 1940 shows Rabindranath Tagore with Mahatma Gandhi. They were together at Santiniketan during the time of British-ruled India.Rabindranath Tagore, the celebrated poet, painter, and writer, stands in a group. He won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913, a huge moment for India.Here, the Indian poet and philosopher Rabindranath Tagore is seen with Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru in 1940. Nehru later became the first Prime Minister of India.The Indian poet and philosopher Rabindranath Tagore posed for this picture with the sculptor Jacob Epstein, who lived from 1880 to 1959.This iconic photo from the 1920s features two geniuses. German-born physicist Albert Einstein and our very own Sir Rabindranath Tagore in one frame.

Rabindranath Tagore, who received the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1913, is seen here standing in a group. His contributions continue to inspire millions.

'Deadliest Catch' star Jake Anderson and wife end 13-year marriage

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 10:30:28 +0530

'Deadliest Catch' star Jake Anderson has confirmed that he and his wife Jenna Anderson are ending their marriage after 13 years together. According to PEOPLE magazine, the revelation was shared during the season 22 premiere of the popular show, where Jake opened up about the difficult phase in his personal life while also dealing with uncertainty in his professional life.

Reason for Split and Future Worries

While speaking about the separation, Jake said, "After 17 years being together, 13 years married, Jenna and I have decided to call it quits." He also spoke about the reason behind the split and shared that his work kept him away from home for long periods. "It's due to a lot of things. The major one is that I'm gone too much crab fishing," Jake said.

The fisherman also spoke about his responsibilities as a father and his worries about work. "But I got three little ones that need to eat, that have to go to school, that have to have doctor's appointments, and I don't have a job," he added.

According to the episode, Jake and Jenna had already been separated for eight months when filming took place in fall 2025. The former couple share three children together: son Aiden, 11, daughter Cadence, who will turn 9 next month, and son Luka, 6.

Navigating Legal and Professional Challenges

The episode also showed Jake trying to rebuild his career during a difficult time. During a meeting with his lawyer, he was advised not to invest more money into his ownership stake in the Titan Explorer. "I don't want you investing any more money in your ownership interest in the Titan Explorer because that could end up being an asset that needs to be divided in the case," the lawyer told him, according to PEOPLE.

Relationship History

Jake and Jenna first met in 2009 at a festival in Seattle, as per reports. They got married in 2012, with fellow 'Deadliest Catch' captain Sig Hansen officiating the wedding ceremony.

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

Watch Viral Video: Elderly Man’s Kind Gesture Towards Shahid Kapoor Melts Hearts

Richa Barua — Sat, 09 May 2026 10:23:53 +0530

Shahid Kapoor, who is now promoting his film Cocktail 2, has gone viral for a courteous encounter at the airport. A widely circulated video shows Shahid waiting in a queue until an elderly guy urged the actor to move forward to escape a mob, a gesture that was hailed online.

In the video, an elderly guy is heard begging Shahid, "Sir, please go ahead because people will crowd you." The actor looks hesitant at first and beckons for the man to go before him, but the latter insists, and Shahid eventually steps forward. The video quickly sparked strong emotions on social media, with many applauding both the old man's considerate gift and Shahid's gracious response.

Watch Video Here

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Varinder Chawla (@varindertchawla)

A fan said, "Bhai ko uncle Ne respect Diya salute uncle ko (Uncle gave respect to Shahid, salute to uncle) (sic)." Other Instagram users wrote, "Professional." However, one user objected to the gesture, writing, "But why?" "Just because he's a celebrity.

Shahid was recently featured in filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj's vengeance-romance O Romeo, which was inspired by real events. Set against the backdrop of unrequited love, O'Romeo stars Shahid and Triptii Dimri in a powerfully emotional and volatile story about passion, anguish, and the irreparable effects of love denied.

Nana Patekar, Avinash Tiwary, Disha Patani, Farida Jalal, Aruna Irani, Vikrant Massey, and Tamannaah Bhatia all had important parts in the film. The theatrical release date for O'Romeo is February 13, 2026.

Shahid will next be seen in Cocktail 2, directed by Homi Adajania. The film also stars Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Mandanna in important roles.

Cocktail 2 is scheduled for theatrical release on June 19, 2026.

Katy Perry to headline FIFA World Cup 2026 opening ceremony in LA

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 10:00:30 +0530

Katy Perry is all set to headline the opening ceremony of the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the United States, Billboard reported. FIFA recently announced the list of performers who will take part in the celebrations before the opening matches of the tournament across the host nations.

Perry also took to her Instagram to share the announcement with her fans. She wrote, "Kicking my feet because I'm performing at the @fifaworldcup 2026 Opening Ceremony in Los Angeles on June 12th! Stay tuned for more info - don't let this be #TheOneThatGotAway." View this post on Instagram A post shared by KATY PERRY (@katyperry)

Star-studded Lineup for LA Opening Ceremony

The singer will perform at the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, on June 12 before the United States takes on Paraguay in one of the opening games of the tournament. Along with Katy Perry, several international artists, including Future, Lisa, Tyla, Anitta, Rema and DJ Sanjoy will also perform during the ceremony.

Mexico City's Opening Ceremony Lineup

Meanwhile, the opening ceremony in Mexico City on June 11 ahead of the match between Mexico and South Africa will feature performances by Tyla, Alejandro Fernandez, Danny Ocean, Lila Downs, Belinda, J Balvin and popular groups Los Angeles Azules and Mana.

Shakira Returns to the World Cup Stage

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will also mark the return of Colombian pop star Shakira to the football stage. Nearly a decade after her famous World Cup anthem 'Waka Waka', Shakira has announced a new song titled 'Dai Dai' for the tournament.

On Thursday, the singer shared a teaser video from Brazil's Maracana Stadium on Instagram and revealed that the full song will be released on May 14. The track also features Nigerian singer Burna Boy.

Shakira's 2010 anthem 'Waka Waka' became one of the most popular World Cup songs ever. The track performed strongly on several Billboard charts and remained a fan favourite for years.

About the FIFA World Cup 2026

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will take place from June 11 to July 19 and will be the biggest edition of the tournament so far. A total of 104 matches will be played across the United States, Canada and Mexico. While the opening match will take place in Mexico City, the final will be held in New Jersey. (ANI)

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

Ameesha Patel slams younger actresses, calls out 'fake PR games'

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 10:00:19 +0530

Actor Ameesha Patel has taken a sharp dig at the younger generation of Bollywood actresses and what she called "fake PR games" in the industry. The 'Gadar' actress took to her X account on Friday night to share a series of fiery posts, one of which spoke about actresses paying PR teams to create a "number one" and "superstar" image despite lacking major box office success.

Ameesha's Fiery Posts

In her post, Ameesha questioned actresses calling themselves top stars without delivering big hits at the box office. Taking a swipe at the "nos 1 and nos 2" race in Bollywood, she wrote, "Most female actresses who haven't even achieved one film in their career where even a single film of theirs has done even 200 cr plus at the box office are paying their PR teams to cal themselves nos 1 and nos 2 ?like really ?its 2026 and not 2000 today 100 cr is nothing ." Take a look https://x.com/ameesha_patel/status/2052807102259920922?s=20

In another post, she wrote, "Call ur self a super star only if u have achieved any sort of work that creates history and havoc at the box office . Untill then stop playing PR games to cal urself a super star sorry but that's the harsh reality." https://x.com/ameesha_patel/status/2052807102259920922?s=20

Viral Reaction and 'Gadar 2' Success

In no time, her post went viral on the internet with many users reacting to her take on Bollywood PR culture and online criticism. The actress was last seen in the blockbuster film 'Gadar 2', where she returned as Sakeena alongside Sunny Deol. The film turned out to be one of the biggest box office hits of that year and marked Ameesha's return to the big screen after many years.

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

Moushumi Chatterjee Opens Up on Rajesh Khanna, Calls Him ‘Spoilt Brat’ in Flashback

Nancy Tiwari — Sat, 09 May 2026 09:53:03 +0530

Veteran actress Moushumi Chatterjee revisited her experience with Rajesh Khanna, recalling his superstardom era and candidly describing him as a “spoilt brat,” while also reflecting on his career highs, struggles, and changing film industry dynamics.

Veteran actress Moushumi Chatterjee, who ruled Hindi cinema in the 1970s, recently opened up about her experience working with superstar Rajesh Khanna. In an interview, she fondly recalled their time on set but also made candid remarks about his larger-than-life image during his peak stardom.

Speaking with a touch of humour, Moushumi described Rajesh Khanna as a “spoilt brat,” adding that his immense success often went to his head. She said that while he was extremely popular, his attitude sometimes reflected the pressure and ego that came with being India’s first major film superstar.

When asked about Rajesh Khanna’s later struggles with fading stardom and loneliness, Moushumi responded philosophically. She said it was “karma” and believed life reflects how one handles relationships and success. According to her, loneliness is a universal phase, and one should learn to embrace solitude rather than fear it.

Moushumi also reflected on how the film industry has evolved over the decades. She noted that earlier, top stars often dominated sets and influenced decisions, while today’s actors appear more collaborative and friendly. She also mentioned films she worked on with Rajesh Khanna like Anuraag and Prem Bandhan, which remain memorable in her career.

Did you know that Diljit Dosanjh tried to take his own life? Here’s What We Know

Richa Barua — Sat, 09 May 2026 09:49:50 +0530

Diljit Dosanjh made a surprising confession during the current Aura World tour, stating that he attempted to "leave his body" in December and no longer fears death.

Diljit Dosanjh is noted for the purity and simplicity of his music and discussions. Diljit, who is not known for stirring up problems, reportedly made a comment on his current tour that has his fans and followers scared. The musician and actor admitted that in December of last year, he attempted to "get out of" his body. He also mentioned that he had no fear of death.

On April 30, Diljit made the surprising statements while playing at Calgary's Scotiabank Saddledome as part of the Aura World Tour. "I have already left this world. I don't have any fear of death. Last December, I was trying to get out of this body. But now I still have to do a few more things before I leave this body. There is nothing to be afraid of," he said.

Dosanjh went on to say, "Punjab has always been spoken about, and it will continue to be spoken about even without me. I have already left this world; this is the truth. I am standing on this stage, and this is my God."

However, not content to stop there, the 'Udta Punjab' actor went on to say that he had no fear of death or anger against anyone. He went on to say that he is making every effort to include love, respect, and forgiveness into his life. "To those who are still with me, this is the name of Punjab. I am Punjabi. "What do you say?" he finished.

The Punjabi popstar's shocking statement has gained traction on social media. A Reddit user commented: "We don't know what happened, but hope he's coping mentally and has enough supports in place."Another person remarked, "Fame has a negative impact on mental health."

Diljit last appeared in 'Border 2'.

Justin Baldoni moves on with family in Nashville post-settlement

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 09:30:25 +0530

Actor-director Justin Baldoni is trying to move ahead with his family after settling his legal matter with actress Blake Lively. According to PEOPLE magazine, Baldoni has been spending time in Nashville with his wife Emily and their two children. The couple, who got married in 2013, are parents to daughter Maiya Grace and son Maxwell Roland-Samuel.

A source close to the actor told the publication that the last few months have been difficult for the family, but Nashville has helped them begin a "fresh start." "It's obviously been an incredibly difficult time for the whole family, but Nashville has given them a fresh start," the insider said.

The Lawsuit and Settlement

According to PEOPLE, the settlement between Baldoni and Lively came ahead of a trial that was scheduled to begin in New York on May 18. On May 4, lawyers from both sides released a joint statement confirming that an agreement had been reached after months of legal battle. Lively had first filed a sexual-harassment complaint in December 2024 against Baldoni and his production company Wayfarer Studios over alleged misconduct linked to their film adaptation of 'It Ends with Us'. Baldoni denied all allegations.

The source further added that his wife are trying to focus on their family and future. "Justin and Emily are both incredibly resilient and grounded," the insider told PEOPLE. "Justin's not someone who sits around dwelling on the past and feeling sorry for himself."

According to PEOPLE, Lively, as part of the settlement, can still seek legal fees and damages against Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios. Reports also stated that the studio's $400 million defamation countersuit against Lively had earlier been dismissed by Judge Lewis J. Liman.

On the Work Front

On the work front, Baldoni is part of the producing team for the upcoming biopic 'Dinner with Audrey', starring Thomasin McKenzie and Ansel Elgort. Meanwhile, Blake Lively will next be seen in the action-rom-com 'The Survival List'.

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

Olivia Culpo, Christian McCaffrey expecting 2nd child after 9 months

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 09:00:48 +0530

Model Olivia Culpo and NFL star Christian McCaffrey are set to become parents once again. The couple announced that they are expecting their second child, just nine months after welcoming their daughter Colette. The couple shared the happy news on Instagram on Friday, which also marked Olivia Culpo's 34th birthday.

Along with a series of family pictures from a picnic outing, the couple wrote, "Best birthday gift Baby #2 coming soon." The photos showed Olivia and Christian spending time with their daughter Colette and their dog Oliver. A strip of sonogram pictures was also placed on the picnic blanket. Take a look View this post on Instagram A post shared by Olivia Frances Culpo (@oliviaculpo)

Welcoming First Child, Colette

According to PEOPLE, Olivia and Christian had welcomed their first child, daughter Colette, in July 2025. At the time, the couple shared black-and-white pictures from the hospital soon after the baby's birth. Olivia had later called childbirth "the scariest and most rewarding of all experiences."

Olivia Opens Up About Motherhood

A few months later, Olivia also opened up about motherhood during an appearance on The Squeeze podcast. She spoke honestly about balancing work and family life after becoming a mother. "There's totally a shift," Olivia had said while talking about motherhood at a podcast, according to PEOPLE. "Whether or not you want there to be or not, you have somebody that's physically dependent on you. So I'm not going to sugarcoat it. Yeah, it's scary."

She also shared that Christian has been a strong support system for her as she continues managing both work and parenting responsibilities. "I'm so grateful that I have my husband because while I'm totally working and I'm doing everything in my power to keep working and I'm so happy to have the opportunities that I have," she said.

Olivia added that her priorities have changed after becoming a mother. "And I would choose my baby 10 times over, obviously," she had said. Earlier in March 2025, Olivia had announced her first pregnancy with a maternity photoshoot on Instagram. Sharing the pictures, she wrote, "Next chapter, motherhood."

About the Couple

Christian McCaffrey currently plays for the San Francisco 49ers in the NFL, while Olivia Culpo is known for her work as a model and former Miss Universe winner. (ANI)

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

Kim Kardashian helps 50 moms in prison reunite with kids for Mother's Day

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 09:00:46 +0530

Kim Kardashian's Mother's Day Initiative

As Mother's Day is just a day away, global star Kim Kardashian is helping several incarcerated mothers reunite with their children for the special occasion.

Kardashian, along with REFORM Alliance and Ladies of Hope Ministries, has arranged for 50 mothers in federal prisons across the United States to meet their children this Sunday.

The initiative will cover travel and other expenses for the families so they can spend Mother's Day together.

According to PEOPLE magazine, the families were selected on a first-come, first-served basis. Many of these women have not seen their children and loved ones for years.

Talking about the initiative, Kim shared that many mothers have missed important moments in their children's lives while being behind bars. "So many of these mothers have spent years away from their children and families, missing birthdays, holidays, and everyday moments most of us take for granted," she said in a statement as per PEOPLE.

Kim also said she felt honoured to support the mothers and help bring families together again. "I'm honored to partner with Reform and LOHM to help reconnect these families so they can hold their children, laugh together, and simply be a family again," she added.

Emotional Visit to Women's Prison

Recently, Kim Kardashian, her mother Kris Jenner, and REFORM Alliance member Jessica Jackson also visited the women's prison in Chowchilla, California. During the visit, they met several incarcerated women, including women receiving hospice care.

Sharing her experience on Instagram, Kim spoke about how emotional the visit was for her. "Last week my mom and I visited a women's prison, in Chowchilla, Central Californias Woman's Facility hospice yard and witnessed something incredibly moving. Many of the women there have spent decades in prison and become family to one another, caring for women in hospice so no one has to die alone," Kim wrote.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kim Kardashian (@kimkardashian)

Ongoing Commitment to Prison Reform

Kim Kardashian has often spoken about prison reform in recent years and has actively worked with organisations supporting incarcerated individuals and their families. (ANI)

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

Inside PHOTOS of Vijay Deverakonda’s Minimal Yet Classic Luxury Jubilee Hills Villa

Nancy Tiwari — Sat, 09 May 2026 08:52:47 +0530

Vijay Deverakonda owns a luxurious home in Hyderabad’s Jubilee Hills, reflecting his sleek and minimalist style. The premium residence features elegant modern interiors and is located in one of the city’s most upscale and exclusive neighbourhoods.

Vijay Deverakonda lives in a luxurious house in Hyderabad’s Jubilee Hills, one of the city’s most elite areas. The neighbourhood is home to many celebrities and business leaders, reflecting his premium and exclusive lifestyle in this highly sought-after location.

The actor purchased this luxurious property in 2019, marking a major personal milestone. Reports suggest the villa is valued at around ₹15 crore, reflecting his rising stardom and refined taste in premium real estate investments.

The property is a spacious multi-level villa with a modern design. It features clean lines, open layouts and thoughtfully planned interiors, creating a stylish yet warm and welcoming atmosphere that reflects a sophisticated lifestyle.

The home follows a white and neutral colour theme. Each room is styled in a minimal yet classic design, creating a calm, elegant and luxurious atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and warmly inviting.

The large glass windows are a standout feature of the house, allowing natural light to fill the interiors. They also create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, making the villa feel bright, open and airy.

The living area is spacious and elegantly designed with modern furniture, wooden flooring and well-planned lighting. A balanced mix of textures and subtle detailing adds character while keeping the space clean, stylish and uncluttered.

The villa is designed for both relaxation and entertainment, featuring a terrace garden for parties, a private in-house gym and a music room. These spaces provide the perfect setting to unwind after busy and long workdays.

Currently, Vijay Deverakonda lives in this luxurious home with his father Govardhan Rao, mother Madhavi, brother Anand and their pet dog Storm. With his upcoming wedding to Rashmika Mandanna, fans are speculating she may also move into this beautiful residence.

Mother’s Day Special: Raveena–Rasha to Kajol–Nysa, 5 Stylish Bollywood Mom–Daughter Duosva

Nancy Tiwari — Sat, 09 May 2026 08:41:38 +0530

This Mother’s Day on May 10, Bollywood celebrities are celebrating their moms with love and style. On this special occasion, we take a look at some of the most stylish and admired mother–daughter duos in the film industry.

The Bollywood industry has 5 mother-daughter jodis who are the most stylish and glamorous. Not just that, these pairs also give each other tough competition in the beauty department.

Dimple Kapadia and her daughter Twinkle Khanna are both incredibly beautiful and glamorous. Their fashion sense is just amazing, and they easily match each other in the style department.

Kajol and her daughter Nysa Devgan are a super stylish pair. Kajol is known to be quite protective of Nysa, and the two share a really strong bond.

Raveena Tandon and her daughter Rasha Thadani are both incredibly glamorous. In terms of style and looks, they are neck and neck. For those who don't know, Rasha has already made her Bollywood debut.

Hema Malini and her daughter Esha Deol are a beautiful duo. People often see them performing together on stage, which shows the great chemistry they share.

Aishwarya Rai's daughter, Aaradhya Bachchan, is just as beautiful as her mother. The two are often spotted together, and now, Aaradhya is even starting to give her mom some serious style competition.

Delhi Latest Weather Update: IMD Forecasts Intense Heatwave and Rising Temperatures

Nancy Tiwari — Sat, 09 May 2026 08:22:48 +0530

Delhi is set for intense sunshine and heatwave-like conditions on May 9, 2026, with temperatures likely reaching 38°C, according to IMD. Here’s the weather update, heat impact, safety tips and 5-day forecast overview.

On May 9, 2026, Delhi is set for some seriously hot and dry weather. The IMD predicts a mostly clear sky, which means the sun will be beating down hard. Expect a high of 36°C and a low of 24°C. Hot winds will start early, and by afternoon, conditions will feel like a heatwave. Even with humidity between 60-35%, the air will feel more hot than humid. If you're stepping out, make sure you're covered.Delhi's temperature on May 9 could remain above normal. The strong sun and clear skies will make the heat on the roads feel much worse. While the weather department hasn't issued a formal warning, the rising temperatures are making people anxious. Experts believe if the wind speed stays low, the 'real feel' temperature could touch 40°C in the afternoon. Children, the elderly, and outdoor workers need to be extra careful. This spell of heat in Delhi-NCR could get even more intense in the coming days.According to the latest IMD forecast, Delhi's maximum temperature could reach 38°C on May 10 and 11. The sky will be mostly clear on both days, though some light clouds might appear from May 11. On May 12 and 13, the temperature will stay between 36°C and 37°C. This means there's very little chance of relief from the heat for at least the next five days. The rising temperatures could also increase electricity demand, water consumption, and health problems. Weather experts say Delhi seems to be heading for pre-summer heatwave conditions in the second week of May.With the rising heat in Delhi, health experts are advising people to avoid going out in the sun between 12 PM and 4 PM. If you must go out, using an umbrella, cap, or a 'gamcha' is essential. To avoid dehydration, it's crucial to drink water continuously and take electrolytes. The heat can quickly lead to problems like heatstroke, dehydration, and fatigue. Experts especially advise that children and the elderly should stay in air-conditioned or cool places. If you feel dizzy, weak, or have a severe headache, you should see a doctor immediately.The steady rise in temperature right from the start of May has made things difficult for people in Delhi. While it's normal for heat to increase around this time, the clear skies and constant strong sun have made the situation more serious this year. IMD data shows there is no chance of rain in the next few days, so the heat will continue. The streets in many parts of Delhi-NCR are already looking deserted in the afternoons. Experts say if a Western Disturbance doesn't become active by next week, an official heatwave could be declared in the capital. People need to keep a close watch on weather updates.

Jaideep Ahlawat announces new film 'Daldalll'; shares first look

Asianet News Central — Sat, 09 May 2026 00:00:35 +0530

Actor Jaideep Ahlawat has announced his new film 'Daldalll', which is directed by Suresh Triveni. The actor has shared the first look poster of the movie.

Taking to his Instagram handle, Jaideep Ahalwat shared the poster in which he was seen trapped in the swamp, setting the tone for the project.

The release date and cast details of the project have not been announced yet.

While sharing the poster, Jaideep wrote, "Iss Daldal mein tum sab bhi phasoge!" https://www.instagram.com/p/DYEv-18DX3i/?

Jaideep Ahlawat also in 'Drishyam 3'

Meanwhile, the 'Paatal Lok' actor will also be seen in the upcoming Hindi film 'Drishyam 3', which is slated to release in theatres on October 2, 2026.

It stars Ajay Devgn in the lead role. The film is directed by Abhishek Pathak.

Portrayed brilliantly by Ajay Devgn, Vijay Salgaonkar is a simple, middle-class man who stands firm against every adversity, not with violence, but with sheer willpower, intelligence, and an unshakeable love for his family.

Vijay Salgaonkar emerged as an iconic on-screen father, standing up against every adversity through sharp thinking and emotional strength.

According to the makers, the film is being shot across multiple cities and locations.

The story will advance within the established 'Drishyam' timeline, introducing new and unexpected twists in the lives of the Salgaonkar family.

The original ensemble cast, including Ajay Devgn, Tabu, Shriya Saran and Rajat Kapoor, will reprise their roles, along with other celebrated actors.

The makers have hinted at edge-of-the-seat drama as the narrative unfolds further.

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

Pune girl's murder: Arbaaz Khan demands strictest punishment

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 23:30:29 +0530

Actor Arbaaz Khan has strongly reacted to the alleged sexual assault and murder of a four-year-old girl in Pune, calling for the strictest punishment. Speaking to the media, Arbaaz shared, "Law and order should be strengthened. The accused should be given the strictest punishment... If people do such things, they are going to be punished, and the law is not going to spare them."

Spiritual Leader Calls for Death Penalty

On the other hand, Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Laxmi Narayan Tripathi also condemned the incident, calling for a death sentence. "The person who committed this heinous act should be sentenced to death. I request that our central and state governments implement capital punishment for rape, and anyone who violates the modesty of women and little girls should be given the death penalty. Only then will people stop doing such things," Acharya Mahamandaleshwar told the media.

Accused Arrested, Had Prior Cases

The reactions came after a four-year-old girl was allegedly sexually assaulted and murdered by a 65-year-old man who lived in the surrounding area in a village in Pune district. According to Pune Rural Superintendent of Police, Sandeep Singh Gill, the accused has two similar cases against him. The accused was arrested shortly after the incident came to light when the girl went missing, and her relatives began searching for her. During the search, CCTV footage surfaced in which the accused was seen with the child.

'Accused Have No Right to Live': Deputy CM

Earlier this week, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde condemned the horrific rape and murder of a 4-year-old girl in Pune, calling it an "extremely unfortunate event." Speaking to the media, Shinde shared, "The atrocity has been committed against a 4-year-old girl. The accused have no right to live. They are habitual offenders who should be given the death penalty." (ANI)

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

Isha Ambani pays tribute to mother Nita Ambani at NMACC dinner in Venice

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 23:30:26 +0530

Isha Ambani's Tribute to Mother Nita Ambani

Businesswoman, philanthropist, and arts patron Isha Ambani paid tribute to her mother and Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) founder Nita Ambani at the inaugural NMACC dinner on the occasion of the opening of the India Pavilion at the 61st International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia. While addressing the gathering of artists and cultural leaders from around the world, Isha Ambani reflected on her mother Nita Ambani's journey from being a classical Indian dancer to working in education, sports, and later founding the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre. "Good evening, everybody, and welcome to our first inaugural NMACC dinner in Venice to celebrate the India Pavilion. It is such an honour to be in this room today with each and every one of you, and I'm so touched that you took the time to be here today. My mother grew up a classical Indian dancer, then became a teacher, then dived into the world of education and sports, and then came back to her roots with launching the NMACC," said Isha Ambani.

While reflecting on NMACC's mission, Isha Ambani added, "Our mission has always been to take the best of India to the world and to bring the best of the world to India, and I was so excited to be part of this wonderful group who's put together the India Pavilion. I'd just like to raise a glass to art, to friendship, and to a conversation around culture that keeps continuing."

NMACC shared the speech of Isha Ambani at the inaugural dinner on their Instagram handle today. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (@nmacc.india)

A Night of Elegance in Venice

For the inaugural dinner in Venice, Nita Ambani wore a shimmering ivory-gold silk sari featuring intricate woven patterns, paired with a matching blouse. She completed her look with colourful gemstone jewellery and a small ornate gold handbag, reflecting a blend of elegance and traditional craftsmanship. Isha Ambani, on the other hand, made a striking appearance in a wine-coloured satin saree-style gown with sculptural pleats and a modern silhouette. The ensemble featured embellished circular jewelled detailing around the neckline and waist, adding a contemporary edge to the traditional-inspired outfit.

India Pavilion Inaugurated at Venice Biennale

The inauguration of the India Pavilion at the 61st International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia was held on Thursday. It was attended by Mukesh Ambani, Nita Ambani, Isha Ambani, Akash Ambani, Anant Ambani, Shloka Mehta and Radhika Merchant, among others.

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

'Aakhri Sawal': A consolidation of facts, not a message, say makers

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 22:30:33 +0530

The lead cast and the producer of the upcoming film 'Aakhri Sawal' reflected on the message behind the film, saying that the movie is the "consolidation" of the facts, which is open to interpretation by the audience. Directed by the National Film Awardee Abhijeet Mohan Warang, the film 'Aakhri Sawal' stars Sanjay Dutt, Sameera Reddy, Amit Sadh, Namashi Chakraborty and Neetu Chandra in the lead role. As per the trailer of the movie, the film dives into some of the most sensitive and controversial moments of India's political history.

'A Consolidation of Facts'

While talking to ANI, film producer Nikhil Nanda said that the film doesn't carry any message but is the "consolidation" of the facts. "We don't want to give any message, we just want to show facts and people are so intelligent that they will automatically get the outcome they want. We have consolidated all of them in the form of a film in front of the audience and I hope that everyone will get their final answer from this last question," said Nikhil Nanda. As per the trailer, the story appears to engage with some of the most sensitive and widely discussed events in India's past, which include the Babri Masjid demolition and the significance of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh.

Actress Neetu Chandra, who plays the role of a journalist in the movie, reiterated the producer's statement that the movie carries no message and is open to the interpretation of the audience. "Nikhil ji was saying that there is no message. Today's audience is very educated, very intelligent, and they will know what the movie is and what should happen. That's why I feel like, as Amit Sadh sir also said, it makes a lot of difference to us that you watch this movie or watch every movie, so that the hard work that we have put in front of you, the result comes out well, and you reach this movie to everyone," said Nitu Chandra.

Amit Sadh's 'Goosebump' Moment

Actor Amit Sadh recalled his experience from the script reading session of the film before boarding the project. He described it as one of the "goosebump" moments of his life, as he was very impressed with storytelling in the film.

Amit Sadh said, "I took the narration, and in the second half of the film, when I took the narration for the first time in my life, I took the narration while standing. I couldn't sit. I had goosebumps. I was doing all this while standing. I was like, tears were coming. I became emotional." He added, "You all know that I have never hidden my emotions. I have been here for 25 years. I have never hidden my feelings, and I think there should be emotions. There should be patriotism, and I consider myself very fortunate that I am a part of this chapter, this film, this movement. And I would just like people to go and watch this film."

The story, screenplay and dialogues have been written by Utkarsh Naithani.

Accessible Cinema Initiative

Apart from its subject, the makers also said that 'Aakhri Sawal' aims to make cinema accessible to more viewers. The film will release with integrated Indian Sign Language (ISL) support for deaf audiences. Accessibility support for visually challenged viewers is also being planned.

Production and Release

The film is presented by Nikhil Nanda and produced by Nikhil Nanda and Sanjay Dutt. Puneet Nanda, Dr Deepak Singh, Gaurav Dubey and Ujjwal Anand are co-producers.

'Aakhri Sawal' is scheduled to release in cinemas on May 15, in Hindi, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam. (ANI)

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

'The Only Way is Essex' star Jake Hall dies in Spain accident at 35

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 22:30:32 +0530

Actor Jake Hall, known for featuring on ITV reality show 'The Only Way is Essex', has passed away at 35. According to Deadline, Hall sustained head injuries and died after an accident at a villa in Majorca, Spain.

"We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in Spain and are in contact with the local authorities," a spokesperson for the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office told People.

The incident is currently being investigated by the Spanish Civil Guard, which said, "It appears to be an accidental death."

Family Asks For Privacy

Jake Hall is survived by his 8-year-old daughter River, whom he shared with ex-Misse Beqiri.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jake. (@jakehall)

A representative for Beqiri told People, "At this time, Misse's focus is on supporting and protecting their child as they come to terms with this devastating loss. The family are asking for privacy, compassion and respect while they grieve privately."

The pair got engaged in May 2018 after welcoming their daughter in November 2017. However, they remained in an on-and-off relationship and parted ways shortly after their engagement.

Tributes Pour In

Meanwhile, tributes have been pouring in for Hall, who was also a model and fashion designer.

'The Only Way Is Essex', in a statement, offered tributes and said, "Jake was a part of the TOWIE family for a number of years, and we send our very deepest sympathies to his family and friends following today's very sad news."

(ANI)

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

Mumbai Police files FIR against Celina Jaitly's husband Peter Haag

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 21:00:25 +0530

The Mumbai Police has registered an FIR against Bollywood actress Celina Jaitly's husband, Peter Haag, after the actress filed the complaint alleging cruelty, physical harm, criminal intimidation and sustained harassment against her.

FIR Registered, Look Out Circular Issued

The Mumbai Police have registered an FIR against Austrian National Peter Haag, under Sections 85, 115(2), 351(2), and 352 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, in connection with serious allegations of cruelty, physical harm, criminal intimidation, and sustained harassment made by his wife and actress Celina Jaitly. The FIR was registered in the Versova Police Station on Friday. This marks the initiation of criminal proceedings against Haag in addition to the ongoing proceedings under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005. In light of his continued non-cooperation with the investigation, the Mumbai Police have escalated the matter by issuing a Look Out Circular (LOC) against him, indicating the seriousness of the allegations and the ongoing probe.

Ongoing Domestic Violence Case

Last year, actor Celina Jaitly filed a case of domestic violence against her husband before the Judicial Magistrate First Class in the Andheri court in Mumbai. As per the court documents, Celina has filed the case under Section 23 of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2025, for interim and ex parte relief. She has sought damages of Rs 50 crores and other sums in lieu of her loss of source of income and property. The case has been verified, and a notice has been sent to Peter Haag, a resident of Austria, for December 12, 2025.

Details of Allegations and Compensation Sought

Claiming that her husband "prohibited her from working on various pretexts and robbed her of her financial independence and dignity", Celina, in the petition, accused Peter Haag of pressurising her to transfer ownership of her residence at Mumbai to his name while she was undergoing severe depression after the death of her newborn child and both parents within a few months of each other. She also alleged being subjected to "severe emotional, physical, sexual, verbal and financial abuse" by her husband, forcing her to flee their home in Austria and return to India without her children. Ever since, the actor has been seeking legal redress for the illegal transfer of Mumbai; however, she has been blocked from all her access to her children, she mentioned in the petition. Further in her plea, Celina Jaitly has sought protection from her husband under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act. She has also sought compensation of Rs 50 crores on account of the "loss of earnings/visibility suffered by the Complainant due to the abuse meted out by the Respondent, followed by other monetary orders for loss caused due to property removal, funds misappropriation, and maintenance. Celina Jaitly and Peter Haag got married on September 18, 2010, at the actor's residence in Mumbai, as per Hindu rituals in the presence of her close friends and family members. On September 22, their marriage was registered under the Austrian civil law. They have three kids, Viraaj, Winston, and Arthur. (ANI) (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Neha Dhupia, Adil Hussain's '52 Blue' to open London Film Fest

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 20:30:25 +0530

Neha Dhupia and Adil Hussain starrer '52 Blue' is set to open the 17th London Indian Film Festival with its European premiere at the British Film Institute Southbank on July 9, reported Variety.

About the Film

The movie is a coming-of-age drama about a sheltered young man's journey from Kerala to the FIFA World Cup in Qatar in pursuit of his childhood idol, Lionel Messi. Directed by Ali El Arabi, the film will also screen at Midlands Arts Centre in Birmingham on July 10. El Arabi and members of the cast are scheduled to attend both screenings.

According to the outlet, '52 Blue' centres on Ashish (Yadav Shashidhar), a young man raised in isolation on a Kerala island by an overprotective father and a quietly encouraging mother, played respectively by Adil Hussain and Neha Dhupia. After breaking free from that sheltered existence, Ashish sets out across continents, driven by a goal bound up in the memory of his late brother, as quoted by Variety. The film features an original song, 'It's Your Turn,' by rapper and singer-songwriter Badshah.

Festival Director's Praise

"We are delighted to open our 17th festival with this riveting and inspirational film about youth finding a way against impossible odds, which seems to wonderfully go against the grain of these despondent times," said Cary Rajinder Sawhney, the festival's CEO and programming director, as quoted by Variety.

"The contrast of the protagonist's life from small-town Kerala to the massive spectacle of international stadiums really sums up the dichotomy of experience in the modern world and how Indian people are often the hidden backbone workers of richer nations. El Arabi skillfully extracts commanding performances from their young actor Yadav Shashidhar and globally recognised names like Adil Hussain," added Sawhney as quoted by Variety.

About the London Indian Film Festival

The London Indian Film Festival, which also encompasses the Birmingham Indian Film Festival and Manchester Indian Film Festival, marks its 17th year with a program spanning 20 venues across six U.K. cities: London, Birmingham, Manchester, Sheffield, Bradford and Liverpool, reported Variety. The full multi-city program will be unveiled on June 10. (ANI)

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

David Attenborough gets a wasp named after him on his 100th birthday

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 20:00:50 +0530

David Attenborough, who has been the face and voice of countless wildlife documentaries, has turned 100 years old today. Tributes have rolled in from the worlds of science and popular culture on this occasion. Attenborough is one of the natural historians who is known for presenting geographical series, including 'Planet Earth I, II and III', 'Blue Planet I and II', 'Frozen Planet I and II', 'David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet', 'Seven Worlds', 'One Planet' and many others.

New wasp named after David Attenborough

To mark the occassion, the Natural History Museum, London, has named a new wasp after David Attenborough. It is named Attenboroughnculus tau. Taking to their Instagram, the Natural Museum shared the description of the new wasp. "Meet Attenboroughnculus tau -a 3.5 mm parasitic wasp. A recent study at the Museum revealed its unusual characteristics, over 40 years after being collected in Chile." It added, "This is both a new species and a new genus, meaning that it's too different from its closest relatives to fit into an established genus. Its unique traits include a strongly curved abdominal segment and a unique wing and leg structure."

The Natural Museum offered it as a tribute to David Attenborough's contribution to wildlife and global conservation. "David shed light on these often-overlooked parasitoid wasps in his documentaries, showing the importance of insects for our planet. The name of this wasp celebrates how he has inspired generations of scientists, and encouraged more people to care about the natural world," wrote Natural Museum.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Natural History Museum, London (@natural_history_museum)

Tributes pour in for the naturalist

The naturalist Chris Packham, who is known for presenting children's nature series 'The Really Wild Show,' extended his birthday wishes to David Attenborough and thanked him for his lifelong impact on "inspiring love and protection of nature." Taking to his Instagram, Packham said, "Happy birthday Sir David, I'm part of that generation that grew up watching life on earth as a small child with awe and wonder, and ever since I've been listening to your voice, listening to your enthusiasm, and it connects me to nature, inspires me to spend my time trying to protect it. Happy birthday Sir David, my earliest memory of your work is Life on Earth, not the TV series, but the book that I devoured as a youngster, and it's one of the reasons I wanted to get a job in nature conservation. So thank you and happy birthday," "Dear Sir David, as Chair of Butterfly Conservation, I wanted to send you our heartfelt congratulations on your 100th birthday," added Packham.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Butterfly Conservation (@savebutterflies)

Football legend David Beckham paid tribute to David Attenborough by calling him a "natural treasure." Taking to his Instagram, he wrote, "Happy 100th Birthday to our National Treasure David Attenborough."

View this post on Instagram A post shared by David Beckham (@davidbeckham)

Attenborough's most-watched shows

While tributes have been pouring in for David Attenborough on the occassion of the naturalist's 100th birthday, let's take a look at some of the most-watched shows of Attenborough.

Ocean with David Attenborough

According to the National Geographic website, at the heart of 'Ocean with David Attenborough' is an examination of the role the world's oceans play in sustaining life on earth. He begins by reflecting on the most striking underwater phenomena he's encountered during his career. Then, revisiting the same areas in 2025, with a broader perspective and more scientific insight, he delves deeper, exploring sweeping coral reefs, seagrass beds and rare marine species.

Planet Earth I, II and III

The first instalment of Planet Earth was broadcast in 2006, taking viewers on a journey through the planet's last true wildernesses and drawing attention to the profound effects of climate change, as per the website of National Geographic. Returning 10 years later, Planet Earth II details how fast the planet has changed, and the ever more extreme lengths animals must go to in order to survive. According to the website, released almost two decades after the original series, Planet Earth III covers more than 43 countries over five years, from deserts and grasslands to Arctic extremes, focusing on wildlife such as chacma baboons in the Tsaobis Nature Park in Namibia and southern right whales off the coast of Argentina.

Frozen Planet I and II

The two Frozen Planet series, broadcast in 2011 and 2022, focus on the extreme climates of the North and South Poles, studying how native species have adapted to survival in these hostile and unforgiving environments. Following the polar seasons, each episode showcased a glimpse of life in the most remote places on Earth, bringing awareness to the threats animals face in these environments and looking at the ways in which they survive long, dark winters.

David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet

First aired in 2020, A Life on Our Planet serves as a witness statement to the state of the Earth, investigating the broad-reaching effects of human-caused climate change. The programme lays bare the reality of the vanishing Amazon rainforest, rising sea levels destroying habitats, and soil degradation causing food instability across the world, as per the description on the website.

Asia

Attenborough's seven-part Asia series surveyed the continent's immense ecological diversity and the often-extreme environments in which animals struggle to survive. In the high alpine mountains of the Himalayas, elephants navigate steep and rocky terrain, while further north, a frozen lake means life or death for a seal pup, according to the description of National Geographic. Across the region, powerful currents create dangerous conditions along the Mekong and Ganges river systems, where fish and predators contend with natural forces and human development.

Through such landmark series, Attenborough continues to inspire awe, responsibility, and action toward protecting Earth's ecosystems for future generations.

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

Nita, Isha Ambani stun in traditional wear at Venice Art Biennale

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 19:31:29 +0530

Nita and Isha Ambani's Elegant Appearance

Nita Ambani, Founder and Chairperson of Reliance Foundation, hosted a grand inaugural dinner on the occasion of the opening of the India Pavilion at the 61st International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia. She was joined by her daughter Isha Ambani, with the mother-daughter duo opting for traditional yet contemporary styling for the cultural evening.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (@nmacc.india)

For the occasion, Nita Ambani wore a shimmering ivory-gold silk sari featuring intricate woven patterns, paired with a matching blouse. She completed her look with colourful gemstone jewellery and a small ornate gold handbag, reflecting a blend of elegance and traditional craftsmanship.

Isha Ambani, on the other hand, made a striking appearance in a wine-coloured satin saree-style gown with sculptural pleats and a modern silhouette. The ensemble featured embellished circular jewelled detailing around the neckline and waist, adding a contemporary edge to the traditional-inspired outfit.

A Celebration of Culture and Heritage

Set within the historic Scuola Grande della Misericordia, the evening brought together leading voices from the global art, culture and fashion world.

A post shared by NMACC India described the evening as a cultural exchange celebrating creativity and heritage, stating, "What began as a celebration of the India Pavilion unfolded into a memorable conversation between cultures -- bridging heritage and contemporary expression of the past and present. It was a heartfelt tribute to the artists, the Indian craftsmanship and to the audiences who keep creativity alive."

India Pavilion's 'Geographies of Distance' Exhibition

It featured works by artists Alwar Balasubramaniam (Bala), Ranjani Shettar, Sumakshi Singh, Skarma Sonam Tashi and Asim Waqif.

The exhibition explored the ideas of memory, migration, materiality and belonging through contemporary artistic practices rooted in Indian cultural traditions.

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

'Peddi': BTS glimpse shows Chiranjeevi, Sukumar on Ram Charan's set

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 19:30:32 +0530

Amid the growing anticipation for Ram Charan starrer 'Peddi', the makers have shared a priceless BTS glimpse with 'Pushpa' director Sukumar and superstar Chiranjeevi on the film's sets.

The makers shared the BTS video of Pushpa director Sukumar and superstar Chiranjeevi visiting the sets of Peddi and wrote, "Here are some fun BTS moments that are close to our heart. Megastar @Chiranjeevikonidela Garu and Maverick director @aryasukku Garu visited the shoot of #Peddi. #PEDDI WORLDWIDE RELEASE IN CINEMAS ON JUNE 4th, with PREMIERES on JUNE 3rd. Trailer announcement soon," the makers wrote. View this post on Instagram A post shared by PEDDI (@peddimovie)

Ram Charan also shared the BTS video on his social media and added, "Original Peddi on the sets of #Peddi. #Throwback." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ram Charan (@alwaysramcharan)

In the visuals, Chiranjeevi and Sukumar could be seen interacting with the 'Peddi' team, including actor Ram Charan, who appeared to be in his character's look.

Sukumar's Pivotal Role in 'Peddi'

It is worth mentioning that filmmaker Sukumar has been a pivotal part of 'Peddi', involved right from the story setup, helping shape the hero's choice, the music direction, and every creative decision that defines the film. He even visited shoots, supervised everything in the backend, sat through edits, and ensured that his student's vision was executed at the highest level possible, the makers shared, as per a press release.

'Peddi' Cast and Release Details

Written and directed by Buchi Babu Sana, Peddi stars Ram Charan in the titular role, alongside Shiva Rajkumar, Janhvi Kapoor, Divyendu Sharma, and Jagapathi Babu. Produced by Venkata Satish Kilaru under his banner, Vriddhi Cinemas, and in collaboration with the leading production house Mythri Movie Makers. The film is scheduled for release on June 4, 2026.

(ANI)

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

Filmmaker Raj Chakraborty announces his decision to quit politics

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 18:32:23 +0530

Raj Chakraborty Announces Departure From Politics

Filmmaker Raj Chakraborty has announced his decision to quit politics. Taking to Instagram, Raj Chakraborty shared a long note in Bengali, adding how he worked hard to fulfil his duties as a filmmaker as well as a legislator. "Whenever I have been entrusted with a responsibility in life, I have discharged it with dedication and integrity. I have always strived to give my absolute best. As a director, I have consistently endeavoured to bring joy to people through the medium of cinema. At times I have triumphed; at other times, I have faced defeat," he wrote. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Raj Chakrabarty (@rajchoco)

Mentioning that he began his political journey in 2021, Raj Chakraborty further continued, "The people granted me the opportunity to serve. Over the subsequent five years, I strove to fulfil my duties as a legislator in that very spirit. That chapter came to a close in 2026."

Change of Guard in West Bengal

The filmmaker also highlighted the formation of a new government in West Bengal, extending his heartfelt best wishes to the new leadership. "I extend my heartfelt best wishes to them. I sincerely hope that, under their leadership, West Bengal will march forward on the path of progress and development," he wrote.

In the recently concluded 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 207 seats, bringing an end to the Trinamool Congress's (TMC) 15-year-long reign. BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari has been elected the BJP Legislative Party Leader for the party in West Bengal, paving the way for him to become the first BJP Chief Minister in the history of the State. (ANI)

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

Alia Bhatt reviews 'Daadi Ki Shaadi', praises Neetu, Riddhima Kapoor

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 18:31:11 +0530

'You light up the screen': Alia Bhatt reviews 'Daadi Ki Shaadi'

Actor Alia Bhatt seems to be her mother-in-law Neetu Kapoor and sister-in-law Riddhima Kapoor Sahni's biggest cheerleader as she showered praise on their new film 'Daadi Ki Shaadi'. On Friday, Alia took to her Instagram Stories and shared her review after attending a special screening of the film. The actress posted a few pictures and said the movie left her with a "warm smile."

Praising the film's story and family moments, Alia wrote, "Left with a warm smile on my face. Twists, turns and nonstop laughter... woven into a story with so much heart, and the awkward, hilarious, lovable chaos that families are made of."

Alia also praised Neetu Kapoor and Riddhima Kapoor Sahni for their performances in the film. Tagging both of them in her Instagram Story, she added, "Both of you light up the screen." The actress also encouraged her fans to watch the film in theatres. Take a look

About the film

Produced by Rtake Studios along with BeingU Studios and Shimla Talkies, 'Daadi Ki Shaadi' has been written and directed by Ashish R. Mohan. The film also stars Sarath Kumar and Sadia Khateeb in important roles. The movie marks Riddhima Kapoor Sahni's big-screen debut. The film revolves around relationships and second chances.

Alia Bhatt's work front

Meanwhile, on the work front, Alia Bhatt will next be seen in the upcoming spy thriller 'Alpha'. The film also stars Sharvari Wagh, Anil Kapoor, and Bobby Deol. It is directed by Shiv Rawail, who earlier directed the series 'The Railway Men'. (ANI)

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

3 Things Cody Rhodes Could Do on WWE SmackDown Before Backlash 2026 Showdown With Gunther

Vaishnav Akash — Fri, 08 May 2026 17:30:00 +0530

WWE SmackDown before Backlash 2026 could set the stage for Cody Rhodes. From attacking Gunther to issuing challenges, here are three possible moves that may shape his storyline.

The most straightforward move would be Rhodes striking back at Gunther after last week’s ambush. The Undisputed Champion has endured repeated assaults since WrestleMania 42, and a retaliatory attack would intensify their rivalry heading into Backlash.

A promo segment could reveal why Gunther targeted Rhodes’ championship. The Austrian star might disclose that Paul Heyman secured him a shot after WrestleMania 42. This exchange would clarify his pursuit of the Undisputed Title instead of the World Heavyweight Championship.

As a fighting champion, Cody Rhodes could challenge Gunther for Backlash 2026. Gunther may decline, instead proposing a showdown at Clash in Italy on May 31. This would allow WWE to build anticipation for a major European title bout.

Revolver Rinko Review: Crazy Cinema Ride Packed With Heroic Twists Shock Audience

Indrakshi Samanta — Fri, 08 May 2026 17:29:14 +0530

Vishnu Unnikrishnan's latest film, 'Revolver Rinko', is a story about making a movie. The plot, written and directed by Kiran Narayanan, is quite interesting. The story kicks off when three kids, inspired by the hit film 'Minnal Murali', get a brilliant idea. They decide to make their own movie to help a friend who is going through a tough time and boost his confidence. But being kids, they have no clue where to start. That's when Priyesh, played by Vishnu Unnikrishnan, enters the picture. He's an aspiring filmmaker whose only experience is directing music albums. Priyesh takes on this big challenge, and the film follows the hilarious and heartwarming journey of this unlikely crew trying to make a movie. The film also shines a light on the real struggles young filmmakers face, especially when working with a small budget. It's a story that will resonate with anyone who has a big dream. The movie is presented in a way that's perfect for kids and families, with the child actors getting a lot of screen time. Friendship is the real hero of this film. Every time the characters face a problem, their bond helps them find a way out. Early reports say the film is getting a great response from the audience after its first show. Packed with comedy, 'Revolver Rinko' gets a lot of applause for the performances of Vishnu Unnikrishnan and the talented child actors. The director has also cleverly woven in a superhero element without overdoing it. The main child actors are Sreepath Yan (known for 'Malikappuram' and 'Sumathi Valavu'), Dhyan Niranjan (from 'Idiyan Chandu'), Adishesh, Visad, and Avani. The supporting cast includes well-known actors like Lalu Alex, Binu Sashiram, Vijilesh, Sanju Sivaram, Saju Navodaya, K.P.A.C Muhammed, Ansha Mohan, Marina Michael, Anjali Nair, Shiny Sara, Adinad Sasi, Dipin Babu, Sabu, and Praudheen. The film is produced by Tharaka Production.

Suvir Saran's Tribute: Remembering Rohit Bal on His Birthday

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 17:01:06 +0530

Time has passed, but grief does not move in straight lines. It circles, it returns, it settles into the body in unexpected ways. It has now been more than a year since Rohit Bal -- my Gudda -- left this world, around Diwali the year before last. And yet, there are days, like today, his birthday, when the distance collapses entirely. He is here. Immediate. Intimate. Impossible to forget.

Gudda was not just a designer of extraordinary talent -- he was a man who altered lives. I know this not as an observer, but as someone who was changed by him at a formative age. I was fourteen. Lost. Confused. Frightened by my own thoughts, by desires I did not understand, by a world that did not yet have language for who I was becoming. And then there was Gudda. He did not lecture, he did not label, he did not judge. He simply saw. And in that seeing, he gave me something no one else had -- acceptance, affirmation, a sense that I was not wrong, that I was not alone. He emancipated me without ever declaring it. He gave me dignity before I knew how to ask for it.

Years later, when life brought me back into his orbit more frequently, I witnessed a different Gudda -- one who had begun to withdraw from many, who was navigating his own health struggles, quieter, but no less perceptive. And yet, with me, the door always remained open. The affection, if anything, grew more tender.

The Final Moments

In those final days, I visited him in the hospital. It was not unusual for me to massage his shoulders or his feet -- something I had done countless times. But that day was different. He insisted I massage his head. There was a softness to him, a stillness, and he said something I have carried with me since: "You will remember this for a lifetime. You are doing something different today."

At the time, I did not understand. Then he got up from the bed. And suddenly, there was a shock. Then another. Then another. I could feel something passing through him -- something violent, something invisible, something final. What we now understand were likely heart attacks, waves of cardiac failure moving through his body while I held him, trying to steady him, trying to make sense of what was happening.

The doctors came. They intervened. They administered medication to calm him, to ease him into sleep. There was a sense -- or perhaps a hope -- that he would rest, recover, return. I left. And within fifteen minutes of reaching home, I received the call. He was gone.

I was the last person he saw -- from family and from friends. For a long time, I did not know how to hold that truth. It felt heavy, almost unbearable. But then Rajiv Bal, his extraordinary elder brother, said something that changed how I understood those final moments. He told me: "Do not see this as anything but a gift. He left in the arms of a friend who loved him." And I chose to believe him. Because if there was one thing Gudda valued above all else, it was love -- expressed, embodied, immediate.

A Family's Bond and a Brand's Continuation

Rohit Bal's life cannot be spoken of without speaking of his family. Rakesh Bal, Rajiv Bal, and Anila, along with the sisters who are no longer with us -- they were not peripheral figures in his life. They were his core, his constant, his refuge. The bond they shared was not performative; it was lived, daily, deeply. There was a sense of communion within that family that was rare, and it gave Gudda both grounding and flight.

Today, that same family continues to hold the brand together with remarkable strength and clarity. Under the leadership of Rajiv Bal, and with Fraze Tasnim, head of Rohit Bal Design, alongside dedicated team members like Akriti and many others shaped by Gudda's vision, the house of Rohit Bal is not standing still in memory -- it is moving forward with purpose.

Remembrance in Motion: The Brand's Evolution

There is something extraordinary in witnessing this evolution. It does not feel like succession. It feels like continuation. The opening of the flagship store at The Dhan Mill in Delhi stands as a physical embodiment of this. Located near the city's farmhouse belt, the space carries with it both scale and serenity -- an environment that feels distinctly aligned with Gudda's sensibility. It is immersive, evocative, and unapologetically aesthetic.

Equally powerful has been the renewed focus on Balance by Rohit Bal, the pret line that has found remarkable resonance in today's world. In a time when fashion is seeking both accessibility and authenticity, this line bridges the two with elegance. It brings Gudda's language -- his embroideries, his silhouettes, his sensibilities -- into everyday life without diluting their essence.

This is not reinvention. This is remembrance in motion. The brand continues to honour its commitment to organic, natural fabrics, to intricate handwork, to craftsmanship that is rooted in India yet relevant globally. There is an understanding within the team that Gudda's vision was never static -- it was expansive, evolving, always reaching forward.

That forward movement was evident in the house's last show at Lakme Fashion Week -- a presentation that stood apart not because it sought attention, but because it commanded it. There was a quiet confidence in the work, a clarity of identity that did not need to prove itself. Models walked with memory in their stride. Many of them had known Gudda personally, and their presence carried a sense of homage.

There is a phrase often heard in those circles: "For Guddaji, we would do anything." It is not an exaggeration. It is a reflection of the loyalty and love he inspired. That love extends beyond the runway. It lives in the ateliers, in the stores, in the people who continue to show up every day not out of obligation, but out of devotion. Because Gudda did not just create garments. He created belonging.

More Than Fashion: The Friend, The Critic, The Man

But to speak of Gudda only through fashion would be to miss the man entirely. He was also that friend -- the rare one -- who read every column I wrote, sometimes twice over, and always with attention. He would tell me what he thought -- honestly, sharply, lovingly. He would tease me about the writers I was channeling. He saw shades of Oscar Wilde in my voice -- something others, like Geetanjali Shree, would later echo, and my sister Seema had long believed. Gudda would laugh and switch into Hindi, asking me, "Kahaan se aayi yeh English? Where have you come from? How do you know this English?" It was teasing, but it was also his way of acknowledging something he saw -- and that mattered.

And then there was music. After my father passed, there was no one left who insisted I sing. That gentle, constant nudging disappeared -- until Gudda stepped in. Whenever I was around him, especially if there was company, he would turn to me and say, "Gao." Sing. Just like my father had. And I would. Because with Gudda, refusal was never really an option -- and love was always the undertone.

I miss that deeply. I miss, too, his eye -- that instinctive, exacting gaze. I often wore kurtas from Good Earth -- some he found flattering, others he dismissed without hesitation. And Gudda was never one for polite approval. The ones he liked, he would claim instantly. "Give this to me," he would say, "I'll get others made for you -- different fabrics, different colours." It didn't matter that they weren't his designs. What mattered was the line, the fall, the way they sat on the body. He responded to what worked -- and when it did, he wanted to reinterpret it, refine it, make it his own for you.

Some of those pieces went to him, full of promise -- of returning transformed, reimagined. Some never came back. They exist somewhere now, perhaps unfinished, perhaps waiting, perhaps simply part of that quiet archive of intentions he left behind. And that, too, was Gudda. Not just generous in what he gave, but generous in what he imagined giving. Always creating. Always seeing ahead. Always shaping you, even when you didn't realise it.

An Unforgettable Legacy

Globally, as Indian fashion continues to assert itself with greater confidence, Rohit Bal's influence remains foundational. He was among those who insisted that Indian craftsmanship did not need validation from elsewhere -- it needed only to be presented with integrity. His work stood shoulder to shoulder with the finest in the world because it was unapologetically itself.

Today, as the brand looks outward -- to international exhibitions and to markets such as Dubai, Paris, and London -- it does so with that same conviction.

And yet, for those of us who knew him, the legacy is not only in the garments or the global reach. It is in the way he lived. In the way he could command a room and then retreat into nostalgia, watching old Hindi films, humming along, surrounded by friends. In the way he could be fierce and fiery, and then call moments later to apologise with disarming sincerity. In the way he showed up -- fully, intensely, without dilution.

He was not easy. He was not meant to be. He was unforgettable. And he remains so. Because true creators do not leave. They linger -- in fabric, in feeling, in form.

Rohit Bal lives on in the clothes we wear, in the aesthetics we absorb, in the standards he set for what Indian fashion could be. He lives on in the team that carries his torch, in the family that guards his legacy, and in the countless lives he touched in ways that had nothing to do with fashion and everything to do with humanity.

More than a year has passed. And yet, he is not gone. He is present -- in memory, in movement, in magnificence. And always, in gold. (ANI/Suvir Saran)

(Disclaimer: Suvir Saran is a Masterchef, Author, Hospitality Consultant And Educator. The views expressed in this article are his own.)

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

Thalapathy Vijay’s CM Dream: Did Number 108 Rewrite His Political Fate Forever Now?

Indrakshi Samanta — Fri, 08 May 2026 16:55:14 +0530

So, TVK chief Vijay won 108 seats but still couldn't form the government because he didn't get a majority. We're diving into the numerology and astrology to see which numbers and planets supposedly stopped him from becoming the Chief Minister.In a hypothetical 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly election, Vijay's Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) won 108 seats. But they need 118 for a majority. Even four days after the results, Vijay has not been able to form a government. While 5 Congress MLAs have offered support, everyone is waiting to see if VCK, the Marxist, and Indian Communist parties will back him.Numerology experts say there's a strong 'number' reason why Vijay can't take the CM's chair yet. His 108 seats add up to 9 (1+0+8=9). Number 9 belongs to Mars, the 'commander' or 'Thalapathy' of the planets. Experts say this Mars energy helped him win 108 seats, showing his power as a 'commander' in the political battle. But the majority mark of 118 seats adds up to 1 (1+1+8=10, then 1+0=1), which is the 'royal' number of the Sun.Numerology experts claim that while number 9 brought Vijay fame, he is still 10 seats short of reaching the power of number 1. Because the Sun's full influence is missing, he can't sit on the 'throne' despite the votes. Also, Vijay's birth date is the 22nd, which adds up to 4 (2+2=4). This number is ruled by Rahu. In astrology, Rahu is known to bring sudden twists and unexpected hurdles in politics.Astrology experts suggest that these 108 seats have given Vijay a strong foundation. However, Rahu's influence indicates he might have to wait a while for the full Chief Minister post. Beyond astrology, the real question is whether he will get the 118 seats needed for a majority. We have to wait and see if VCK and the Left parties will support him. Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on numerological beliefs and astrology. It is for analytical purposes only and not to determine anyone's political success. In politics, only the people's vote decides victory or defeat.

Bobby Deol's 'Bandar' teaser gets thumbs up from brother Sunny Deol

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 16:30:43 +0530

Sunny Deol on Friday gave a shout-out to his brother Bobby Deol after the release of the teaser of his upcoming film, 'Bandar'. Taking to Instagram, Sunny posted the teaser link of the film and wrote, "Loooking sooo gooood my Lord Bobby. #Bandar in cinemas on 5th June."

Reacting to Sunny's post, Bobby dropped a string of red heart emojis in the section.

About 'Bandar'

Following the success of his intense performance in 'Animal', Bobby Deol seems to be venturing into an entirely different cinematic space with 'Bandar'. The film also boasts a strong ensemble cast featuring Sanya Malhotra, Raj B Shetty, Sapna Pabbi, Saba Azad, Riddhi Sen, Jitendra Joshi, Indrajeet and Nagesh Bhonsle.

'Bandar' has been penned by Sudip Sharma and Abhishek Banerjee, known for acclaimed titles such as 'Paatal Lok', 'Kohrra' and 'Udta Punjab'. Directed by Anurag Kashyap, produced by Nikhil Dwivedi's Saffron Magicworks and backed by Zee Studios, 'Bandar' is slated for a worldwide theatrical release on June 5, 2026.

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

Peddi Movie: Ram Charan's Film Smashes Uncle Pawan Kalyan's OG Record!

Indrakshi Samanta — Fri, 08 May 2026 16:06:15 +0530

Advance bookings for Ram Charan's 'Peddi' have kicked off in North America, and the film is already smashing records even before its premiere shows.Mega Power Star Ram Charan's latest film, 'Peddi', is gearing up for a massive worldwide release on June 4. Director Buchi Babu Sana has helmed the project, which Vriddhi Cinemas produced with a huge budget of ₹350 crore. The movie has been generating solid buzz right from its announcement.The film's teasers and songs have received a fantastic response from the audience, steadily building up the hype. The craze is so intense that tickets are selling like hotcakes in North America, with records tumbling as soon as advance bookings opened.Fans are already saying that 'Peddi's' rampage has begun. The film grossed a whopping 1 lakh dollars in North America within just 24 hours of advance bookings opening. With this, Ram Charan has broken the record set by his uncle Pawan Kalyan's film 'OG', which had earned 82,000 dollars in its first 24 hours.Looking at the 'Peddi' mania, it looks like many more records are set to be broken. After the massive success of 'RRR', Ram Charan's next film 'Game Changer' was a big disappointment. This is why Mega fans are now eagerly waiting for 'Peddi' to hit the screens.So, 'Peddi' has started its record-breaking journey by surpassing 'OG'. The nephew has officially broken his uncle's movie record. 'Peddi' is a sports action drama set in a rural backdrop. Director Buchi Babu has already locked the final edit, and reports suggest the final runtime is over three hours long.

Razor Review: Ravi Babu Leads Solo—Does Film Slice Through Expectations?

Indrakshi Samanta — Fri, 08 May 2026 15:43:51 +0530

Ravi Babu has worn all the hats for his new film 'Razor'—he's the hero, director, and producer. He's trying to show us a completely new side of himself. So, how did the movie actually turn out? Let's dive into the review.Ravi Babu is a man of many talents—actor, director, producer, and editor. But a solid box office hit has been eluding him for a while. He is known for his unique story ideas, but they haven't always clicked with the audience. Now, he's back with 'Razor', an action survival thriller where he is the hero, director, and producer. Tanish also plays a key role. The film hit theatres on Friday, May 8. So, did Ravi Babu finally score a hit? Let's find out.The Home Minister plots to kill the CM to take the chair himself. But a CCTV camera records the whole thing. Vishnu (Tanish), who runs a CCTV business, sees the footage and decides to go to the police. His friend warns him against it, saying it will lead to trouble. Soon, the Home Minister finds out. He gets the friend killed, and then murders Vishnu and his wife (Inaya Sultana). Vishnu's daughter, Teju, witnesses the murders. The Home Minister then orders his men to kill the child and retrieve the footage. But Vishnu had already hidden copies of the footage in different places using a code system. Before dying, he tells his daughter the word 'Golkonda'. Rudra (Ravi Babu), a dog groomer, arrives to give Teju's pet a bath. By the time he returns, he finds Vishnu and his wife dead and Teju crying. Rudra protects the girl and becomes her guardian. Now, the Home Minister's men are hunting Rudra. While on the run, Rudra tries to decode the video locations. The rest of the story follows his quest: Where did Vishnu hide the video? How does Rudra save Teju? Who is Rudra really? And does the Home Minister succeed in his plan?Ravi Babu usually picks a small idea and builds a whole story around it. He is an expert at thrillers, but they haven't been working lately. This time, he has completely changed tracks with an action-crime thriller. Think of films like 'Marco' or 'Kill'—the movie is packed with extreme violence and stylish action, something new for Telugu cinema. But apart from the action, everything else feels routine and reminds you of his older films. The action sequences are truly next-level and will make you want to whistle. The first half is somewhat okay, with the Home Minister's plotting on one side and the search for the footage on the other. But the second half slows down and becomes very predictable. The hunt for the video drags on and really tests your patience. Ravi Babu's flashback episode is somewhat moving, but the climax is exactly what you'd expect. In short, Ravi Babu has reinvented himself with some cool hero moments, but the rest of the film follows a tired, old formula. The background music, however, is quite impressive.As Rudra Pratap, Ravi Babu is fantastic in a role with two different shades. He absolutely nails the action scenes and delivers a settled performance. However, since audiences are so used to seeing him as a villain, it's a bit hard to fully accept him as the hero here. The child artist playing Teju is brilliant, as the entire story revolves around her. Tanish, as Teju's father, makes a strong impact in his short screen time. The rest of the cast, including the actor playing the Home Minister, do a decent job with their roles.Visually, the film looks good with high production quality. However, the editing could have been much tighter. As a director, Ravi Babu tried something new with the action sequences, but for the rest, he stuck to his old format. The pacing is a major issue; the film needed to be much faster. On the technical front, the background music is the main highlight. **Final Word** Apart from the bloodbath in the action scenes, 'Razor' is a routine and boring crime action thriller. **Rating: 2**

Vijay Top 20 Songs That Built A Superstar’s Legacy | From Thalapathy to CM?

Asianet Newsable English — Fri, 08 May 2026 15:05:21 +0530

Celebrate the musical journey of Thalapathy Vijay — the superstar whose songs became festival anthems for millions of fans. And now, as Vijay’s political rise sparks massive buzz across Tamil Nadu, many supporters even see him as a future Chief Minister. From mass kuthu tracks to emotional melodies and viral dance hits, Vijay’s songs continue to dominate theatres, reels, and playlists across generations, proving why he remains one of Tamil cinema’s biggest entertainers and most influential stars.

Stanley Tucci reveals 'gird your loins' was not in original script

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 15:01:05 +0530

Actor Stanley Tucci has revealed that the famous "gird your loins" line from 'The Devil Wears Prada' was not part of the original script and was instead created during discussions with director David Frankel, according to People. Tucci shared the behind-the-scenes story during an event titled Stanley Tucci in Conversation with Josh Horowitz: The Devil Wears Prada 2 and Tucci in Italy held at 92NY in New York.

The Making of an Iconic Line

During the conversation, host Josh Horowitz asked Tucci about first encountering the now-iconic phrase in the screenplay. "When you first read in the script, the words, 'gird your loins.' Do you have questions? Do you say, 'Yeah, this, this works. I can make this work?'" Horowitz asked, according to People. Tucci clarified that the line had not originally existed in the script. "Well, here's the thing, that, that was not in the script," Tucci said. "It was [director and producer David Frankel], we came up with a list of things to say -- mine would have changed the rating of the film. But David came up with 'gird your loins.' And it was perfect, perfect. He's brilliant," he added, according to People.

Enduring Popularity

The line became one of the most memorable moments from the film, delivered by Tucci's character Nigel as he warns the staff at Runway magazine ahead of a stressful office moment. Horowitz later joked about the lasting popularity of the quote. "Have you reconciled that you are going to be heckled with that line till your last day on earth?" he asked, according to People. Tucci responded humorously, saying, "Yeah, It's going to be on my tombstone."

About The Devil Wears Prada Franchise

Released in 2006, The Devil Wears Prada starred Meryl Streep as fashion magazine editor Miranda Priestly and Anne Hathaway as aspiring journalist Andy Sachs. Tucci has returned to reprise his role in The Devil Wears Prada 2, which released on May 1 and follows Miranda Priestly navigating the changing world of traditional magazine publishing, according to People. (ANI)

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

Dave Coulier on health update, side effects of cancer treatment

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 15:01:02 +0530

Dave Coulier Addresses Health Concerns

Actor and comedian Dave Coulier has shared a fresh update about his health while speaking about the side effects of his cancer treatment. According to PEOPLE magazine, the 66-year-old actor recently posted a video on Instagram where he addressed fans who had been concerned about his appearance and voice changes.

Coulier said that the changes were caused by the extensive radiation treatment he underwent for throat cancer. In the video, Coulier told fans that he had noticed people commenting that he looked and sounded different. Speaking about his health, he said, "The last time I did some of you said that I look differently, and I sound differently, and I do."

Explaining the reason behind the changes, he added, "What you're seeing is the side effects of extensive radiation that I went through for carcinoma in my throat. I haven't been able to eat solid food in months. So I've lost 45 pounds, that's what you're seeing." View this post on Instagram A post shared by AwearMarket (@awear.market) Coulier also shared that the treatment affected his voice as well. "So you're right on with what you're seeing and what you're hearing," he said.

A History of Cancer Battles

The actor was first diagnosed with stage 3 non-Hodgkin lymphoma in November 2024, as per the publication. A few months later, he revealed that he was cancer-free. However, in December 2025, he shared that he had been diagnosed with p16 squamous carcinoma, a type of head and neck cancer found at the base of the tongue.

Positive Prognosis

Earlier this year, in February, he said he was in remission. Giving another positive health update, Coulier said that his recent PET scans showed encouraging results. "The prognosis looks good for both the carcinoma in my throat and the lymphoma. So we're very pleased with all of that," he shared.

The actor also said that his hair had started growing back nearly 18 months after his lymphoma diagnosis. Along with focusing on recovery, Coulier shared that he has been spending time on artwork, creative writing and his wellness brand, Awear Market.

The Importance of Early Detection

Earlier, while speaking to PEOPLE magazine in December, Coulier spoke about how regular scans helped doctors detect his second cancer early. "It turns out, if I hadn't had that PET scan, then they wouldn't have had this early of a detection and I'd have been in a world of pain soon," he had said.

He also called early detection life-saving and added, "Early detection has saved my life twice." (ANI)

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

Sunburn Festival 2026: 19th edition moves to Mumbai's Mahalaxmi Racecourse

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 15:00:54 +0530

EDM lovers, there's great news for you all. The 19th edition of Sunburn Festival was officially announced on Friday. It is scheduled to take place on December 18th and 19th, 2026, with the festival moving to Mahalaxmi Racecourse, one of Mumbai's most famous and centrally located live event venues. The celebration will culminate in a massive closing party at NSCI Dome on December 20th.

Sunburn CEO on Festival's Evolution

Speaking on the announcement, Karan Singh, CEO, Sunburn, in a press note said, "Sunburn Festival has always been built with the audience at its core, evolving each year into a defining cultural tradition for India's music community to create experiences that are not just larger, but more meaningful and immersive. The move to Mumbai has played a significant role in this evolution, allowing us to reach new audiences while strengthening our core community, representing everything that has been building over the years - a moment where the festival's identity, energy and vision come together in a way that is ready to stand alongside the world's most iconic music festivals."

He added, "As we enter our 19th edition, every decision - from moving to a venue like Mahalaxmi Racecourse to reimagining the festival format - has been made with a clear focus on enhancing how fans experience the festival. Our ambition is to continue setting benchmarks for live entertainment in India while aligning with global standards, where scale, storytelling and community come together in a more powerful way than ever before." In 2026, the festival takes on a new dimension with the unveiling of its theme, 'Awaken the Core'. Headliners will be announced soon. (ANI)

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

Taylor Swift's 'The Life of a Showgirl' in legal row over trademark

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 15:00:24 +0530

The legal battle between Taylor Swift and former Las Vegas showgirl Maren Wade has taken a new turn after Swift's legal team strongly responded to a trademark lawsuit linked to the title of the singer's upcoming album, 'The Life of a Showgirl', Variety reported.

According to the publication, Maren Wade, whose real name is Maren Flagg, had filed a lawsuit claiming that Swift's album title infringed on her trademark "Confessions of a Showgirl", which she has used since 2015 for her podcast, newspaper column, and cabaret performances. Flagg's lawsuit argued that both titles carry a similar structure and "overall commercial impression" and are aimed at similar audiences. She also sought a preliminary injunction to stop Swift from using the "The Life of a Showgirl" title further.

Swift's Team Calls Lawsuit 'Absurd'

However, Swift's attorneys strongly denied the claims in a legal filing submitted on Wednesday. Calling the argument "absurd," Swift's legal team said there was no chance of confusion between Swift's global music projects and Wade's cabaret performances.

In the filing, Swift's lawyers wrote, "This motion, just like Maren Flagg's lawsuit, should never have been filed. It is simply Ms. Flagg's latest attempt to use Taylor Swift's name and intellectual property to prop up her brand..."

Swift's lawyers also said that Wade was trying to compare two completely different forms of entertainment. "Plaintiff attempts to broadly lump her cabaret show and defendants' musical album together as 'entertainment services.' That comparison is absurd," the filing stated, as per Variety. The legal team further pointed out that Swift performs in sold-out stadium tours worldwide, while Wade performs at small venues, including retirement communities, resorts, hotels, and supper clubs.

Wade Accused of Using Swift's Brand for Promotion

Swift's attorneys also questioned why Wade waited several months after the album announcement before asking for urgent legal action. According to the filing, Wade allegedly started using phrases connected to Swift's album on social media after the announcement.

"Since the album announcement, plaintiff has reframed her brand around the album, flooding her social media accounts with posts attempting to align herself with Ms Swift and the album," the filing stated. The lawyers also accused Wade of using Swift's music, artwork, hashtags, and branding without permission to promote her own content online. "In one post, plaintiff used an album cover logo, audio from the album title track, hashtags including #thelifeofashowgirl; #swifties; #ts12; and #taylornation," the filing added.

Wade's Lawsuit Details Brand Damage

Meanwhile, Wade's lawsuit claimed that Swift's album promotion affected her own brand visibility online and pushed her content lower in search results.

No trial date has been announced yet. (ANI)

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

Mohiniyattam OTT: Where To Watch Saiju Kurup, Suraj Venjaramoodu's Malayalam-Comedy Online? Details

Richa Barua — Fri, 08 May 2026 14:57:05 +0530

For everyone who missed the recent Malayalam comedy 'Mohiniyattam' in theatres, there's some great news. The film, which was a laugh riot and a box office success, has finally started streaming on an OTT platform.

'Mohiniyattam' is a sequel to the 2024 film 'Bharathanatyam' and was released during the Vishu festival. It initially opened with a small screen count but, thanks to fantastic word-of-mouth publicity, it quickly picked up pace and did very well at the box office. The film was co-produced by actor Saiju Kurup and Thomas Thiruvalla.

About Mohiniyattam

Krishnadas Murali has directed this comedy entertainer. It was produced by Lini Mariam David and Anupama B Nambiar under the banners of Thomas Thiruvalla Films and Saiju Kurup Entertainments. The film features a stellar cast led by Saiju Kurup, Suraj Venjaramoodu, and Jagadish. The supporting cast includes Vinay Forrt, Baby Jean, Kalaranjini, Sreeja Ravi, Abhiram Radhakrishnan, Swathi Das Prabhu, Divya Nair, Sruthy Suresh, Nandu Pothuval, Jinil, Jivin, Nistar Sait, Sreerekha, and the late actor Santhosh Guruvayoor.

The script was written by Krishnadas Murali and Vishnu R Pradeep. Bablu Aju handled cinematography, while Shafeeq V B served as editor. The music was composed by Electronic Kili. Other key crew members include Diljith M Das (Art Direction), Dhanush Nayanar (Sound Design), Vipin Nair (Sound Mixing), Sujith Mattannur (Costume Design), and Manoj Kiranraj (Makeup). The production team includes Chief Associate Director Samson Sebastian, Executive Producer Salman K M, and Production Controller Jithesh Anjumana. Stills were captured by Vishnu S Rajan, with motion posters by Dot VFX Studio, PR by A.S. Dinesh, publicity design by Yellow Tooth, and media planning by Puppet Media.

Watch Trailer

Gullak 5 announced: Anant V Joshi replaces Vaibhav Raj Gupta as Annu

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 14:31:52 +0530

The fifth season of family drama 'Gullak' has been officially announced, with a major change in the lead cast. Actor Anant V Joshi has stepped into the role of Anand (Annu) Mishra in Gullak 5, replacing Vaibhav Raj Gupta.

Anant V Joshi on Joining Gullak

On joining the show, Anant in a press note said, "Gullak has always felt very close to my heart because the Mishras remind me so much of our own families, their warmth, little moments, conversations, and the simplicity with which they touch people's lives. I've been a fan of this world for a long time, so becoming a part of it now feels truly special. Stepping into Annu Bhaiya's journey has been an exciting experience for me, especially because this season explores a more mature and evolving side of his life."

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sony LIV (@sonylivindia)

He added, "What made it even more memorable was the love and warmth I received from the entire cast and team from day one. I'm genuinely grateful to be a part of the Gullak family and very excited for audiences to experience this new season with us."

Gullak 5 Cast and Release

Produced by The Viral Fever, the new season brings back the beloved ensemble featuring Jameel Khan, Geetanjali Kulkarni, Harsh Mayar and Sunita Rajwar, with Anant Joshi stepping into the role of Annu this season. The show will soon be out on Sony LIV. (ANI)

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

Suriya's 'Karuppu': New poster shows actor in lawyer avatar; see here

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 14:31:20 +0530

The makers of actor Suriya's highly-awaited film 'Karuppu' have unveiled a new poster ahead of the film's release. The makers took to Instagram and shared the poster with the caption, "EIGHT days to go before the fire awakens #Karuppu #VeeraBhadrudu in theatres worldwide from 14th May 2026." The latest poster shows Suriya in a lawyer avatar, standing in a powerful pose against a bright backdrop. Take a look View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dream Warrior Pictures (@dreamwarriorpictures)

Soon after the poster was shared online, fans flooded the comment section with excitement and started asking about the trailer release as well. One user wrote, "King Comingggggggggggg," while many others asked the makers to release the trailer soon.

About the Film 'Karuppu'

Earlier, the makers had also introduced actress Trisha Krishnan's character from the film. In a special video shared online, Trisha was introduced as "Preethi." She will be seen playing a lawyer in the fantasy action film.

Recently, the makers also announced the film's release date and shared a teaser on the occasion of Suriya's birthday. The teaser featured the actor performing intense action scenes choreographed by stunt masters Anbariv. The teaser presented Suriya as a man who is skilled in street fights and also fights legal battles in court, as he plays a lawyer in the movie. The film appears to have action, drama, songs, dance and powerful dialogues.

Star-Studded Cast and Crew

Karuppu is written and directed by RJB. Along with Suriya and Trisha Krishnan, the film also stars Indrans, Natty, Swasika, Sshivada, Anagha Maya Ravi and Supreeth Reddy in important roles. The music for the film has been composed by Sai Abhyankkar.

The film is scheduled to release in theatres worldwide on May 14. (ANI)

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

J Balvin drops surprise album 'Omerta' with Ryan Castro on birthday

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 14:30:24 +0530

J Balvin's Birthday Surprise: New Album 'Omerta'

The Colombian music star J Balvin gave fans a special surprise on his birthday as he released a brand-new album titled Omerta, PEOPLE magazine said. The collaborative album with fellow Colombian singer Ryan Castro dropped on Thursday, May 7, making the day even more special for the singer.

Balvin spoke to PEOPLE about the release during the launch of the KidSuper x Jameson Capsule Collection and shared his excitement about celebrating both his birthday and the new music release together. Talking about the album, Balvin said, "We're dropping our new collaborative album with Ryan Castro, with huge artists from Colombia, which I love, admire, and respect. And we can't wait to drop this album tomorrow, especially on my birthday. It's two reasons to celebrate."

Even though the singer plans to celebrate his birthday properly in June because of his packed schedule, he shared that he is still looking forward to enjoying the album release with fans and friends.

Music, Fashion and Collaborations

The 41-year-old singer also spoke about how music, fashion and sports are deeply connected. During the event, Balvin shared why he enjoys bringing these worlds together through his projects. "Well, you know, what's music without sports? And what's sports without fashion? Everything is connected... That's what we call culture," he told the publication.

Balvin also opened up about teaming up with KidSuper for the capsule collection after years of friendship and creative collaboration. Speaking about the partnership, he said, "It's beautiful. It's the first time we're working together. We're more mature. And we're really close. So it's great. It's just like having fun, you know? It's with a brother."

On the Global Rise of Latin Music

The singer also shared his thoughts on the growing global success of Latin music and praised fellow artists like Karol G, Bad Bunny, Maluma, Rauw Alejandro and Anitta for taking the culture worldwide. "I think as a movement, we're doing more than amazing. I think it's just getting started," Balvin said. (ANI)

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

Aashka Goradia, Brent Goble welcome second baby boy, name him Richard

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 14:30:22 +0530

Couple Aashka Goardia and Brent Goble on Friday announced the arrival of their second child, a baby boy whom they named Richard. Taking to Instagram, in a joint post, the new parents in the town wrote, "Coming into our hearts on 1 May, 2026. We announce, Richard Theodore Goble. Once again, we have renewed and unshakeable faith in God's Divine Plan and gratitude for all the gifts we have been given. And with another son, comes a new bond of brotherhood for William Alexander. Two boys...oh the adventures that await." They also shared a cute glimpse of the newborn.

Celebs Congratulate the Couple

Shortly after Aashka and Brent shared the good news, netizens, including members from the entertainment industry, chimed in the comment section to congratulate the couple. Actor Mouni Roy dropped a red heart and an evil eye emoji. "Congratulations to you both and William," actor Divyanka Tripathi Dahiya wrote.

About Aashka and Brent

Aashka and Brent are already doting parents to their son William Alexander, who was born in 2023. Aashka married Brent Goble on 1 December 2017 in a Christian wedding ceremony, followed by a traditional Hindu ceremony.

Brent is a renowned yoga teacher and practitioner--Aashka gained fame for her role of Kumud in 'Kkusum' and Kalavati in 'Laagi Tujhse Lagan'. She also participated in reality shows like 'Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi', 'Bigg Boss' and 'Nach Baliye'.

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

Adnan Sami’s Emotional Tribute to Asha Bhosle

Asianet Newsable English — Fri, 08 May 2026 14:06:54 +0530

Singer Adnan Sami paid a deeply emotional tribute to legendary playback icon Asha Bhosle, saying her soul and music will live forever. Recalling their special bond and musical journey, Sami praised her timeless voice and legacy that continues to inspire generations of music lovers across the world.

Jackie Shroff's 'The Great Grand Superhero' gets May 2026 release

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 14:00:57 +0530

The Great Grand Superhero Release Date Announced

Veteran actor Jackie Shroff-starrer 'The Great Grand Superhero' has got a release date. The film, which is backed by Zee Studios and Amdavad Films, is all set to arrive in theatres on May 29, 2026.

A month ago, the makers unveiled the film's teaser, leaving fans excited. The teaser hints at a world where a "child's imagination takes the grandfather-grandson relationship to another level with a unique thrill of aliens." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jackie Shroff (@apnabhidu)

At the heart of it is Jackie Shroff, in a role that feels deeply warm and refreshingly different. Excited about the project, Jackie, in a press note, shared, "With The Great Grand Superhero, we're fulfilling every child's dream. If your spirit stays young and your spine stays strong till 90, that itself makes you a superhero. Kids' dreams should always come first." Directed by Manish Saini, the film brings together an ensemble cast including Prateik Smita Patil, Bhagyashree Dasani, Sharat Saxena, Mihir Godbole, Durgesh Kumar, Saharsh Shukla, Shivansh Chorge, and Kumar Saurabh.

Jackie Shroff Supports Para-Sports

Meanwhile, Jackie Shroff recently visited Delhi at the 5th National Wheelchair Cricket Championship 2026 Open in Greater Noida. "My message for everyone is that be bindaas in life. These players have been playing so well. I saw these players, and I'm overwhelmed by the passion they have," said Jackie Shroff.

He further emphasised the need for greater support towards para-sports: "I want to come here every year and support these players. I want sponsors to also support them. Big companies should come and sponsor them," he added. (ANI)

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

'The Batman 2': Matt Reeves teases snowy Gotham, winter Batmobile

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 14:00:55 +0530

The upcoming sequel to Matt Reeves' 'The Batman' has finally given fans a fresh update. Director Matt Reeves recently shared what appears to be the first official glimpse from 'The Batman: Part 2', teasing a snowy Gotham City and a winter-themed Batmobile.

Reeves took to X and posted a picture from what looked like a camera test of the Batmobile. Along with the image, he wrote, "#SnowTires". #SnowTires pic.twitter.com/XR0K1xUGqx — Matt Reeves (@mattreevesLA) May 7, 2026

The post in no time got viral, with several fans reacting to the dark and wintry look of Gotham.

'The Batman: Part 2' Returning Cast

Robert Pattinson is set to return as Bruce Wayne, aka Batman, in the sequel. Colin Farrell will also reprise his role as Oz Cobb, also known as Penguin, while Jeffrey Wright and Andy Serkis are expected to return as Commissioner Gordon and Alfred Pennyworth. Barry Keoghan is also likely to return as Joker.

Success of the First Film

The first film, released in 2022, followed a younger Bruce Wayne who was still early in his journey as Batman. The story revolved around the Riddler, played by Paul Dano, who targeted Gotham's powerful people through a series of murders and clues meant for Batman.

The film earned over USD 772 million worldwide and became one of the highest-grossing films of 2022.

'The Batman: Part 2' Production and Release Date

Matt Reeves has co-written the sequel with Mattson Tomlin. Earlier, Reeves had shared that he was very proud of the script and excited about the next chapter of the Batman story.

'The Batman: Part 2' is currently scheduled to release in theatres on October 1, 2027. (ANI)

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

Kris Jenner reveals Ozempic made her 'so sick' before finding health fix

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 13:30:26 +0530

Kris Jenner has claimed that Ozempic made her feel "so sick" before she finally found what she called a "game changer" for her health and energy levels. According to PEOPLE, during her appearance on the SHE MD Podcast, the 70-year-old businesswoman and reality TV star opened up about her experience with the popular weight-loss drug and why it did not work for her.

Talking about trying Ozempic for the first time, Jenner shared that the medication made her extremely uncomfortable. "I did not do, like, an Ozempic," Jenner said during the podcast, as per PEOPLE. "I tried it. We tried it once when no one knew what it was and it made me really sick."

She further recalled telling OBGYN Dr. Thais Aliabadi that she was unable to continue because of how unwell she felt. "I can't work anymore. I can't. I'm so sick. I can't, like nauseous. And so she goes, 'Okay, okay. Let's try something else," Jenner said.

'Game changer' for health

Jenner shared that after trying different options, she eventually found peptide injections helpful for her body and routine. "I realised that a peptide injection was really great for me," Jenner said. "And then I follow it up with supplements."

The Kardashians star also said the treatment helped improve her energy levels and daily routine. "And that was a game changer," Jenner said. "That actually bought me an extra couple of hours at night because I get up so early. I tend to want to go and collapse as soon as I have my last email or my last call or see my kids and have dinner, and I'm done."

Jenner added that the peptides and supplements also helped her hair, skin and nails. She said Dr. Aliabadi guided her on supplements like fish oils and omega-3s.

On facelift rumours

During the podcast, Jenner also spoke about her facelift, which became a major talking point online in 2025. "I had a very well-known facelift a year ago. So that was helpful," she said with a laugh, while praising Dr. Steven Levine for the procedure.

Jenner recently also reacted to reports claiming she was unhappy with her facelift results. Denying the rumours, she said, "The headline right now is that I hate my facelift, and I'm really mad at, I'm furious at my doctor, Steven Levine, which couldn't be further from the truth. It's a flat-out lie. I love my facelift. I adore my doctor. I'm obsessed with him."

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

From Allu Arjun to Rishab Shetty to Yash: Top Pan-India Superstars Under 50 Ruling 2026 Box Office

Richa Barua — Fri, 08 May 2026 13:28:53 +0530

Ormax Media spotlighted the Top 10 stars under 50 ruling Indian cinema in 2026, celebrating actors who have redefined superstardom through record-breaking films, strong fan bases, and ambitious upcoming slates.

In a rapidly evolving cinematic landscape where regional boundaries continue to blur, a select group of stars has successfully built a formidable pan-India presence, consistently delivering blockbuster numbers while expanding their reach across markets.

Here’s a look at some of the biggest names leading the list:

Actor, filmmaker, and producer Rishab Shetty has emerged as one of Kannada cinema’s most influential creative forces, known as Pan India’s Biggest actor, writer, director, superstar. Beginning his journey as a director, he gradually built a strong body of work before redefining pan-India storytelling with Kantara.

What began as a Kannada-language film rooted in its culture evolved into a nationwide phenomenon, establishing Rishab as a distinct voice in Indian cinema. He is next set to be seen in Jai Hanuman.

Fondly known as the Man of the Masses, Jr. NTR has built an unmatched emotional connection with audiences over the years. Renowned for his commanding screen presence, powerful performances, effortless dancing, and action prowess, the actor remains one of the most beloved stars across demographics.

His relatability off-screen, combined with his resilience and career reinventions, further strengthens his enduring mass appeal.

A global box office force & Undisputed Pan India Superstar, Prabhas continues to remain synonymous with large-scale cinematic spectacles. Following his meteoric rise with Baahubali: The Beginning and Baahubali 2: The Conclusion, the actor has only strengthened his dominance with blockbusters like Salaar: Part One – Ceasefire and Kalki 2898 AD.

With an exciting slate featuring sequels to Salaar and Kalki, alongside Spirit and Fauzi, Prabhas remains one of the biggest crowd pullers in Indian cinema.

Widely recognised as the Icon Star, Allu Arjun has cemented his position as one of Indian cinema’s most bankable stars. While already a dominant force in Telugu cinema, his nationwide popularity skyrocketed with the phenomenal success of Pushpa 2: The Rule.

From early hits like Arya, Bunny, and Race Gurram to critically acclaimed commercial successes like Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo, Allu Arjun has consistently demonstrated mass appeal coupled with versatility, making him a true pan India phenomenon.

With KGF: Chapter 1, Yash altered the landscape of pan India cinema, transforming into a nationwide sensation almost overnight. His portrayal of Rocky Bhai struck a chord with audiences across markets, with KGF: Chapter 2 further cementing his superstar status as the highest grossing Kannada film ever.

The actor now gears up for an ambitious line up including Toxic and the highly anticipated Ramayana, where he essays the role of Ravana.

This recognition by underscores how these stars have successfully transcended regional industries to command nationwide appeal, proving that Indian cinema’s biggest superstars today are defined not by language, but by impact.

Dridam FIRST Review OUT: Is Shane Nigam's Malayalam Crime Thriller Worth Your Time? Check Here

Amrita Ghosh — Fri, 08 May 2026 13:26:00 +0530

Dridam FIRST Review OUT: Malayalam crime thriller Dridam opened in theatres on May 8 with early audience reactions pouring in online. Starring Shane Nigam, the mystery drama has sparked mixed but curious first impressions among moviegoers

Dridam, directed by Martin Joseph, officially hit theatres on May 8 and quickly became a topic of discussion on social media. Early viewers shared their thoughts on X soon after the first screenings, with many praising the film’s suspense-driven storytelling and atmospheric setting.

The movie stars Shane Nigam in the lead role as a young police officer handling his first major posting in a remote hill station. What begins as a routine assignment slowly turns into a tense murder investigation after human remains are discovered under mysterious circumstances.

While some viewers appreciated the film’s slow-burn approach and investigative tension, others felt the narrative takes time to fully engage. Despite the divided reactions, the opening-day buzz has helped the film gain attention among thriller fans.

The core plot of Dridam follows a rookie officer trying to solve a disturbing case within a strict deadline. As pressure from senior officials and the public intensifies, the officer is forced to dig deeper into hidden truths surrounding the crime.

The film blends crime, mystery, and emotional tension while exploring the psychological pressure faced by law enforcement officers during critical investigations. The hill-station backdrop also adds an eerie tone to the narrative, creating a gripping atmosphere throughout the investigation.

Writers Jomon John and Linto Devasia have jointly handled the story, screenplay, and dialogues, aiming to keep the suspense layered until the climax.

Apart from its lead performances, the film has drawn attention for its technical execution. Cinematographer P. M. Unnikrishnan captures the misty hill-station setting effectively, while editor Vinayakh keeps the narrative tightly paced during crucial moments.

The background score by Sreerag Saji has also been appreciated by some viewers for enhancing the suspense. The project has been backed by E4 Experiments in association with Bedtime Stories, with filmmaker Jeethu Joseph presenting the film.

As the theatrical run begins, industry watchers will now closely monitor whether positive word-of-mouth can help Dridam maintain momentum at the box office over the weekend.

Shakti Kapoor reacts to fake death news, plans to file cyber complaint

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 13:01:09 +0530

Veteran actor Shakti Kapoor has reacted strongly after fake reports about his death started circulating online. The actor called the rumours "completely fake" and said he is "healthy and happy."

In a video message shared on his Instagram account, Shakti Kapoor called rumours "not good." The veteran actor said he plans to take legal action and file a cyber complaint against those spreading the false news. Addressing his fans and followers, Kapoor said, "Hello everyone, the news of my death is completely fake. I am healthy and happy. Please ignore it. I am going to cyber complain about it. But this is not good. That's not good." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shakti Kapoor (@shaktikapoor)

A Look at Shakti Kapoor's Career

Shakti Kapoor is one of Bollywood's most popular character actors and is known for playing both comic and villainous roles. Over the years, he has appeared in more than 700 films and became especially famous during the 1980s and 1990s. Some of his well-known films include 'Raja Babu,' 'Andaz Apna Apna,' 'ChaalBaaz,' 'Coolie No. 1,' 'Judwaa, Satte Pe Satta' and 'Bol Radha Bol.'

Recent Film Appearances

The actor was last seen in 'Mere Husband Ki Biwi,' directed by Mudassar Aziz. The film starred Arjun Kapoor, Rakul Preet Singh and Bhumi Pednekar in lead roles. Before that, he also appeared in Sandeep Reddy Vanga's Animal alongside Ranbir Kapoor, Anil Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna. (ANI)

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

Who Is Hansika Krishna? Kerala Influencer Faces Backlash Over Alleged Leaked Video-WATCH

Richa Barua — Fri, 08 May 2026 12:49:55 +0530

Explaining the Hansika Krishna Viral Video Controversy: Influencer Hansika Krishna has lately been the focus of heated debate on social media following the circulation of a purportedly related video.

Hansika Krishna Viral Video Controversy Explained: Influencer Hansika Krishna has recently become the subject of heated debate on social media after an alleged video of her began circulating online. The clip, widely shared on platforms like X, has sparked controversy and suspicion online, with many people questioning whether it was leaked from her Instagram premium area.

Hansika is the youngest daughter of actor and politician Krishnakumar, and she comes from a family that Malayalam fans are already familiar with through film, television, and digital media. While her sisters, Ahaana and Ishaani Krishna, work in movies, Hansika has mostly established herself through social media content, particularly Instagram reels and dance videos.

hansubeeeey aka hansika krishna ♾️ pic.twitter.com/NsuTpXzWfA

— (@Twilightmoon4u) May 6, 2026

According to a Manorama Online article, the video in question was reportedly unavailable on Hansika's public social media platforms. According to online conversations, it may have first been shared with premium members before being available on other platforms. However, there has been no formal confirmation of the clip's origin or legitimacy.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hansika Krishna (@hansubeeeey)

As the video went online, condemnation against Hansika and her family grew. Some social media users claimed that the video was purposefully shared to entice more paying members. Others claimed that her Instagram subscription cost had raised from ₹299 to ₹390 per month. Several people also stated that her subscriber count increased dramatically when the matter gained traction online.

At the same time, other social media users questioned if the viral video may have been edited with artificial intelligence or deepfake technology. So yet, no verifiable technical analysis that confirms either assertion has been made public. Hansika has likewise made no public statements on the situation as of May 7.

Hansika presently has over 1.6 million Instagram followers, and her videos consistently receive huge watching rates. Much of her web work comprises of dance and lifestyle videos geared toward younger people. Aside from her social media presence, Hansika hopes to enter mainstream movies. She is set to star opposite Naslen in the forthcoming Malayalam flick Bachelor Party 2 D'eux. The production is one of her first significant acting roles, amidst increased public interest in her internet notoriety and family history.

Meanwhile, Hansika's father, Krishnakumar, remains active in public life. He was named Chairman and Director of the National Film Development Corporation of India in April 2026, having previously worked in Malayalam movies and television.

Charlize Theron, Baltasar Kormakur reunite for thriller 'Six Clean Kills'

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 12:30:25 +0530

Actress Charlize Theron and filmmaker Baltasar Kormakur are set to reunite for a new action thriller titled 'Six Clean Kills', according to The Hollywood Reporter. The project has been set up at Universal Pictures, with Kormakur attached to direct and produce the film, while Theron will produce and is also expected to star.

According to reports, plot details of the thriller are being kept under wraps. The screenplay is being written by author and screenwriter Stan Parish and is based on his unreleased novel of the same name.

Reuniting After 'Apex' Success

The collaboration follows the success of Apex, the survival-action thriller directed by Kormakur and starring Theron alongside Taron Egerton. The film reportedly performed strongly on Netflix after its release on April 24 and continued to gain viewership in its second week, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Production and Studio Ties

Theron will produce the upcoming film under her Secret Menu banner as part of her first-look deal with Universal Pictures, alongside producers AJ Dix and Beth Kono. Kormakur will produce through Blueeyes Productions, while Parish will serve as executive producer.

Reports suggest the project began taking shape last year after Theron and Kormakur completed work on Apex. Theron has maintained a long-standing relationship with Universal Pictures through her appearances in multiple installments of the Fast & Furious franchise, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Kormakur is known for directing films such as 101 Reykjavik, Jar City and Everest, many of which explore survival and emotional endurance against harsh backdrops. He previously collaborated with Universal on Beast starring Idris Elba, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

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

Inside IPL Star Prince Yadav’s Village Residence With Minimal Comforts & His Only Luxury Car Purchase [PHOTOS]

Vaishnav Akash — Fri, 08 May 2026 12:11:41 +0530

Prince Yadav’s Ghaziabad residence is far from glamorous. A grounded setup with simple amenities reflects the IPL pacer’s lifestyle, here’s a closer look inside his understated home.

Prince Yadav’s base remains his family house in Dariyapur Khurd near Ghaziabad. The property is modest, built decades ago, with plain brick walls and open courtyards. No flashy interiors, just functional spaces that reflect his grounded lifestyle.

The living room is simple: wooden chairs, a steel almirah, and a small television set. No designer furniture or luxury décor. It’s a space where family gathers, but it’s stripped down to bare essentials.

Outside, the house has an open yard where his SUV is parked. The Toyota Fortuner is his only big splurge, standing out against the otherwise simple surroundings. The yard doubles as a casual practice spot, with nets occasionally set up for bowling drills.

Prince’s bedroom is minimal, with a single bed, a ceiling fan, and basic storage. A small study table sits in the corner, where he keeps cricket gear and notes. No air‑conditioning, just the basics to keep life uncomplicated.

One modern touch is a small gym setup in the house. A few weights, resistance bands, and a treadmill occupy a corner. It’s not a professional gym, but enough for him to maintain pace training when away from Lucknow camps.

Fact Check: Is Shakti Kapoor Dead? Actor Reacts to Viral Death Rumours

Richa Barua — Fri, 08 May 2026 12:02:35 +0530

Shakti Kapoor, a veteran actor, has confirmed that he is 'well and happy' after false news of his death circulated swiftly on social media.

Shakti Kapoor, a veteran Bollywood actor, has vehemently reacted to bogus claims about his death that appeared recently on social media. The actor sent a video statement on Instagram, dismissing the claims as 'totally bogus'. He also stated that he will file a cyber complaint against those guilty for propagating disinformation online.

Shakti Kapoor: 'My death news is fake.' The rumours spread quickly throughout social media channels, leaving followers astonished and alarmed. Shortly after the claims went viral, Shakti Kapoor sent a video message on Instagram confirming his safety and health. In a video posted online, the actor stated, “My death news is all fake. I am healthy and happy. Please ignore it."

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Shakti Kapoor (@shaktikapoor)

Shakti Kapoor also claimed that he plans to take action against individuals who spread fake news. “I am going to do a cyber complaint about it. But this is not good. It’s not good," he said, in the video, urging people to avoid forwarding unverified information.

Last year, Raza Murad went through a similar trauma when false allegations of his death circulated online. The actor later filed a case with Andheri Police Station after a social media post falsely stated that he had died. Speaking with ANI, Murad stated that the post not only circulated false information about his death, but also implied that after spending decades in the film industry, no one recognised him.

He said, "This should end now. It isn't just about me. Celebrities are frequently pronounced dead while still living. This is wrong, and anybody does it should face punishment."

Returning to Shakti Kapoor, the veteran actor remains one of the most recognisable figures in the Hindi cinema business. Kapoor, well known for his comedic timing and memorable negative characters, rose to prominence in the 1980s and 1990s, thanks in large part to collaborations with late actors Asrani and Kader Khan. Some of his favourite films are Raja Babu, Andaz Apna Apna, ChaalBaaz, Coolie No. 1, Judwaa, Satte Pe Satta, and Bol Radha Bol, among others.

Shakti Kapoor's most recent film appearance was Mere Husband Ki Biwi, directed by Mudassar Aziz. The romantic comedy starring Arjun Kapoor, Rakul Preet Singh, and Bhumi Pednekar in prominent parts. Previously, the actor appeared in Sandeep Reddy Vanga's smash Animal, opposite Ranbir Kapoor, Anil Kapoor, and Rashmika Mandanna. The picture became a huge commercial success.

'Murder in a Small Town' renewed for Season 3, Peter Gallagher joins

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 12:00:53 +0530

Fox has renewed 'Murder in a Small Town' for a third season, with returning leads Rossif Sutherland and Kristin Kreuk are being joined by Peter Gallagher, according to Deadline. The upcoming season will consist of 10 episodes and will see returning leads Rossif Sutherland and Kristin Kreuk reprise their roles. Filming for season 3 is already underway.

Based on the nine-book series by author L. R. Wright, the show follows Karl Alberg, played by Sutherland, a detective who relocates to a quiet coastal town after years of stressful big-city police work. There, he begins a relationship with local librarian Cassandra, portrayed by Kreuk, according to Deadline.

Peter Gallagher joins the cast

In the new season, Gallagher will portray Rod Finlayson, described as a charismatic yet unreliable man whose arrival at the Gibsons marina aboard his beloved boat sparks a series of disruptions affecting both Alberg and Cassandra.

Fox executive praises series

The series, produced by Sepia Films in association with Fox Entertainment and Future Shack Entertainment, has emerged as a reliable performer for the network. Fox executive Brooke Bowman praised the continued success of the mystery drama and expressed excitement over the new season.

"We love bringing this cozy and delightful mystery to Fox fans, and we're thrilled Murder in a Small Town has continued to resonate with our audience," said Brooke Bowman, EVP of Drama Programming and Development, Fox Television Network. "We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Sepia Films and Future Shack on Season 3, alongside our exceptional cast led by Rossif Sutherland and Kristin Kreuk and soon to include the incomparable talent of Peter Gallagher as their newest adversary," Bowman added, according to Deadline.

About the show and cast

The show initially began as a direct adaptation of Wright's novels but has increasingly shifted toward original storylines featuring the same central characters.

Gallagher is widely known for his work in films such as American Beauty and Short Cuts, as well as television series including Grace and Frankie, Grey's Anatomy and The O.C., according to Deadline. (ANI)

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

At 43, Trisha Krishnan Shares Secret Behind Her Age-Defying Beauty, Fitness Routine

Richa Barua — Fri, 08 May 2026 11:39:06 +0530

For fans of Tamil cinema, Trisha Krishnan is more than just an actress; she's a feeling. Decades after her debut in 'Mounam Pesiyadhe', she still lights up the screen with the same energy and glow. When Trisha celebrated her 43rd birthday on May 4, fans couldn't help but wonder how she looks exactly the same. While many call it 'reverse aging', Trisha says her secret is actually quite simple.

Food is Everything

Trisha firmly believes that what you eat shows on your face. That's why she has completely said goodbye to junk food and oily snacks. Her diet is all about nutritious, home-cooked meals. She avoids excessive spices and artificial ingredients, sticking to a simple food plan that helps maintain her skin's natural glow.

A Fresh Start to the Day

Trisha doesn't start her mornings with caffeine-heavy drinks. Instead, her go-to is a glass of lukewarm water with lemon juice or a cup of green tea to detox her system. She says this simple habit helps purify the body, aids digestion, and is a major reason for her fresh-faced look.

The Vitamin C Magic

Trisha knows just how important citrus fruits are for healthy skin. She makes sure to include fruits rich in Vitamin C, like oranges and lemons, in her daily diet. These fruits help boost collagen production and prevent signs of aging. Along with this, she drinks plenty of water throughout the day to keep her skin hydrated.

Fitness is Non-Negotiable

Trisha's discipline when it comes to fitness is truly impressive. It's not just about tough gym workouts; she also regularly does Pilates, strength training, and cardio exercises. This routine improves blood circulation and helps flush out toxins through sweat, giving her skin a natural glow.

Simple and Smart Skincare

When it comes to skincare, Trisha keeps it simple. She only uses what's absolutely necessary. After a shoot, she makes it a point to remove her makeup properly and moisturize her skin. But above all, Trisha reminds everyone that the real secret is a stress-free mind and getting enough sleep.

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A post shared by Trish (@trishakrishnan)

Who Is Agnimitra Paul, Ex-Fashion Designer Set To Become Next West Bengal CM After Mamata Banerjee?

Amrita Ghosh — Fri, 08 May 2026 11:36:25 +0530

Agnimitra Paul: With BJP registering a historic win in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, Agnimitra Paul has emerged as one of the strongest contenders for the chief minister’s post. Here's what we know about the ex-fashion designer

After BJP’s massive victory in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, Agnimitra Paul has become one of the leading names being discussed for the chief minister’s post. The BJP secured 207 seats in the state, marking its first-ever government in West Bengal and a huge leap from its 77-seat performance in 2021.

Paul retained the Asansol Dakshin constituency with a winning margin of over 40,000 votes against the Trinamool Congress candidate. Her victory strengthened her position inside the party and made her one of the prominent women leaders in Bengal politics.

Apart from Agnimitra Paul, senior BJP leaders like Suvendu Adhikari and Samik Bhattacharya are also reportedly being considered for the top post.

Before entering active politics, Agnimitra Paul built a successful career in the fashion industry. Her social media presence and public interviews often reflect her background as a designer and entrepreneur.

She studied Botany at Banwarilal Bhalotia College under the University of Burdwan and later pursued a diploma in Fashion Technology from the Birla Institute of Liberal Arts and Management Sciences. She also holds an MBA degree.

Paul’s educational and professional background has helped shape her public image as a modern and outspoken political leader. Over the years, she became one of BJP’s recognizable faces in West Bengal through regular participation in protests, campaigns and television debates.

Criminal Cases Remain a Talking Point

According to her election affidavit, Agnimitra Paul currently faces 23 criminal cases linked to political protests and public demonstrations. The allegations reportedly include unlawful assembly, rioting, disobedience of official orders and charges related to disturbing public order.

Some cases also involve accusations of promoting hostility between groups during political activities. However, it is important to note that she has not been convicted in any of these matters.

The issue has become a major point of political debate, especially as discussions around the next chief minister continue. Supporters describe the cases as politically motivated, while opponents have raised concerns over leaders with multiple pending cases holding top constitutional posts.

ALSO READ: Dhurandhar 3 CONFIRMED? Makers DROP Big Hint About Ranveer Singh Starrer Franchise

Daadi Ki Shaadi REVIEW: Is Neetu Kapoor, Kapil Sharma's Latest Film Worth Your Time? Read This

Richa Barua — Fri, 08 May 2026 10:59:07 +0530

Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, Ranbir Kapoor's sister, will make her Bollywood debut in this film. Neetu Kapoor, her mother, and Kapil Sharma also appear in the movie. Bollywood celebrities recently attended a special screening of the movie in Mumbai, even though it will be released on May 8. The movie has received favourable reviews thus far.

A review shared by Riddhima read, “Laughed, cried and was thoroughly entertained by the wholesomeness of it all ❤️ @neetu54 you are amazing as usual and @riddhimakapoorsahniofficial what an awesome debut! Amazing performances by all the cast members. Watch Dadi Ki Shaadi!!!!"

Watch Trailer

Alekha Advani Jain wrote, “Fab movie, Neetu Kapoor, Riddhima Kapoor Sahni and everyone else in the film. Such a fun family drama." Aamir Khan told the paparazzi, “Riddhima ki pehle film hai. Bahot badhiya kaam kiya hai. Ranbir se better kiya hai (This is Riddhima’s first film. She has done a great job. She’s better than Ranbir)."

Despite having previously appeared on Fabulous Lives vs. Bollywood Wives, Riddhima will be the oldest Kapoor to make her on-screen debut at the age of 45. Riddhima stated, "It truly feels surreal and deeply emotional," in a recent interview with SCREEN. Everything seems to be going full circle, and I am aware that my father is always there to support and bless me in whatever I decide to accomplish. That idea gives me a lot of courage and solace.

“Being in front of the camera for a show made me comfortable. It gave me a sense of ease and familiarity, which definitely made this transition smoother," Riddhima said about her Netflix show. Interestingly, Neetu Kapoor also made brief appearances on the show alongside Riddhima and spoke about returning to work after Rishi Kapoor’s passing.

Now, Neetu will be seen as Riddhima’s on-screen mother in the film. Riddhima said, “Working with mom was incredibly special. I discovered how effortless and instinctive she is as an actor." Neetu also advised Riddhima: “Stay natural and don’t overthink. Just feel the moment." Riddhima said, “That really helped me ease into my performance."

Kapil Sharma came up with the name Riddhima for Daadi Ki Shaadi. She stated, "I haven't actually asked him why, but I believe he recognised something honest or relatable in me. I'm just glad he recommended my name." The film, which stars Sarath Kumar and Sadia Khateeb, is due to release on May 8.

‘Just Shaving Isn’t Enough’: Basil Joseph Opens Up About Extreme Weight Loss for College Boy Role

Asianet Newsable English — Fri, 08 May 2026 11:02:01 +0530

There's a lot of buzz in Malayalam cinema for the upcoming film 'Athiradi', directed by Arun Anirudhan. Basil Joseph is playing the main character, Sam Boy, while Tovino Thomas has a major role as Sreekuttan Vellayani. All the updates about the film so far have been very promising. Now, Basil has opened up about the massive effort he put in for his role, and it's getting everyone talking.

Basil Joseph says that just clean-shaving your face isn't enough to look like a college student, and that's why he lost about 15 kilos for this film. He added that for ten months, he was dedicated to fasting and working out for one to two hours daily, putting in what he calls an "extreme effort". Basil shared these details in an interview with The Cue Studio.

Also read: Dhurandhar 3 CONFIRMED? Makers DROP Big Hint About Ranveer Singh Starrer Franchise

Basil Joseph: 'Just Shaving Isn't Enough', Lost 15 Kilos for New Role

"When you say a college character, I'm obviously not of college-going age. I have a wife and a child, everyone knows that. It's pointless to just clean-shave my face and claim I'm a college boy," Basil said. "You can buy anything else with money, but for your body, you have to put in the work yourself. There's no other option but to invest a lot of time. I reached a point where I stopped taking up any other acting work just for this."

"For ten months, I was fasting and working out for one or two hours every single day. It was an extreme effort. I was really happy when everyone said I looked like a college boy during the trial look test. It really boosted my confidence, knowing all that hard work paid off," he shared. "My pant size is now 28; it used to be 34. I lost a total of 15 kilos. My current weight is 60 kg. I have completely dedicated two years of my life to this film, it's been a part of my life," Basil added.

Also read: Raja Shivaji Box Office Collection Day 7: Riteish Deshmukh’s Passion Project Maintains Momentum; Check

Dhurandhar 3 CONFIRMED? Makers DROP Big Hint About Ranveer Singh Starrer Franchise

Amrita Ghosh — Fri, 08 May 2026 10:39:12 +0530

Dhurandhar 3 Release Date: After the blockbuster success of Dhurandhar and its sequel, fresh buzz around Dhurandhar 3 has taken over social media as producer Jyoti Deshpande hinted at a surprise for fans later this year

The buzz around Dhurandhar 3 has intensified after Jio Studios co-producer Jyoti Deshpande hinted that the franchise may not be over yet. In a recent interaction with Bollywood Hungama, she revealed that the team still has something exciting planned for audiences.

“We’re not done with Dhurandhar yet. We’ll hopefully have a surprise for the audience later this year. There’s something up our sleeves,” she said.

Her statement has sparked fresh speculation among fans, many of whom believe a third installment could already be in the early stages of development. Considering the overwhelming response to both films, the possibility of expanding the franchise no longer feels unrealistic.

Interestingly, veteran actor Rakesh Bedi, who portrayed Jameel Jamali in the action franchise, had earlier played down the rumours surrounding a third film. Speaking to Zoom, the actor shared that he personally did not think another sequel would happen.

However, he also pointed out that the Dhurandhar universe could continue with different actors or fresh storylines in the future. According to him, the current narrative reached a natural conclusion with the spy returning to his homeland at the end of the story.

Despite his comments, the producer’s latest tease has once again reignited fan excitement online.

While Dhurandhar continues to dominate conversations, actress Yami Gautam recently opened up about how the franchise’s massive success has not changed filmmaker Aditya Dhar as a person.

In an interview with Grazia, Yami praised Aditya for remaining grounded despite the huge box office achievements. She described him as humble, calm and spiritually driven, adding that both of them value faith and gratitude deeply.

According to Yami, they have experienced both highs and lows together, but never allowed success or failure to affect their behavior. Her comments have resonated with fans, especially at a time when Dhurandhar has become one of the most talked-about action franchises in Indian cinema.

ALSO READ: Dhurandhar 2 Box Office Collection Day 50: Ranveer Singh’s ‘Dhurandhar 2’ Beats ‘Baahubali 2’ With Massive Global Box Office Run

4 Things WWE Should Book at Backlash 2026 To Deliver Shocking Twists and Fan Satisfaction

Vaishnav Akash — Fri, 08 May 2026 10:37:02 +0530

Backlash 2026 needs more than predictable outcomes. From stipulations to surprise wins, here are four things WWE should do to make Tampa unforgettable.

Former allies Seth Rollins and Bron Breakker will open Backlash on ESPN 2. Their feud has been chaotic, with interference from The Vision and teases of Bronson Reed’s return. RAW GM Adam Pearce should declare it a street fight. This stipulation would protect the loser and set up a rematch at Saturday Night’s Main Event or Clash in Italy.

John Cena has promised a huge announcement at Backlash. WWE must avoid turning it into another money‑making gimmick like Club WWE. With recent releases and pay cuts, fans need something meaningful. Cena hinted the news will shake WWE to its core, suggesting a draft or roster shift. Whatever it is, it must benefit fans and talent alike.

Roman Reigns has dominated WWE for years, but another predictable win would feel uninspired. Jacob Fatu has been booked strongly, overpowering Reigns in the build‑up. WWE should shock fans by having Fatu win the World Heavyweight Championship. This bold move would freshen the main event scene and prove the Samoan Werewolf is ready for the spotlight.

Backlash 2026 offers WWE the chance to deliver surprises that resonate. By making these choices, the company can ensure Tampa becomes a memorable chapter in its history.

IYO SKY was sidelined during WrestleMania season, overshadowed by Rhea Ripley and Jade Cargill. At Backlash, she faces Asuka in a feud that has simmered for months. To restore her momentum, SKY should defeat her mentor. If Kairi Sane returns to confront Asuka, SKY’s victory would position her as a strong contender heading into Queen of the Ring.

Kelly Clarkson to return as coach for 'The Voice' season 30

Asianet News Central — Fri, 08 May 2026 10:00:30 +0530

Singer and television personality Kelly Clarkson is set to return as a coach on season 30 of 'The Voice', marking her comeback to the competition show after three years, according to E! News. Broadcaster NBC announced Clarkson's return through the show's official social media accounts. 'The Voice' is an American singing reality competition television series that premiered on NBC on April 26, 2011.

"Team Kelly has RE-entered the chat," the official The Voice account posted alongside a video compilation of Clarkson's memorable moments from the series. "Kelly Clarkson returns as a Coach this fall on The Voice!" the post added Another post welcomed the singer back to the judging panel, where she will join fellow coach Adam Levine for the upcoming season. "Please give a warm welcome back to Coach Kelly Clarkson!" the post read.

Clarkson's 'The Voice' Journey

Clarkson last appeared as a regular coach on the show in 2023 alongside Blake Shelton, Niall Horan and Chance the Rapper. Although she has not coached a regular season in recent years, Clarkson did participate in season 29, titled The Voice: Battle Of Champions, alongside Levine and John Legend. The special edition season, which premiered on February 23, featured several new twists, including a Triple Turn Competition and Super Steals, along with guest appearances from artists such as CeeLo Green.

Fellow Coach Adam Levine Returns

Following Team Adam's victory in Battle Of Champions, Levine also confirmed he would return for season 30. "I will be back," Levine told People magazine in April. "I'm having so much fun doing it. Since I came back a few seasons ago, it's just been a blast, and I'm super happy to keep it going as long as they'll have me," he added, according to E! News.

Levine, one of the original coaches from season one, has appeared across 18 seasons of the show. Clarkson, meanwhile, has served as a coach 10 times and remains tied with Levine in total season wins.

Coaching Return Follows Talk Show's End

Clarkson's return to The Voice comes after she announced the end of The Kelly Clarkson Show earlier this year. "There have been so many amazing moments and shows over these seven seasons," Clarkson wrote on Instagram on February 2. She added that she was "forever grateful and honored to have worked alongside the greatest band and crew," according to E! News. (ANI)

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

Dhurandhar 2 Box Office Collection Day 50: Ranveer Singh’s ‘Dhurandhar 2’ Beats ‘Baahubali 2’ With Massive Global Box Office Run

Amrita Ghosh — Fri, 08 May 2026 09:38:20 +0530

Dhurandhar 2 Box Office Collection Day 50: Ranveer Singh’s ‘Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge’ continues its blockbuster run even after 50 days in theatres. The film has crossed major milestones globally and now stands among Indian cinema’s biggest hits ever

Ranveer Singh’s ‘Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge’ has completed a remarkable 50-day theatrical run and continues to dominate the box office despite slowing collections. The action entertainer earned an estimated Rs 50 lakh on Day 50, helping it close its seventh week with around Rs 5.58 crore in earnings.

The film’s India net collection now stands at an impressive Rs 1,140.67 crore, making it one of the highest-grossing Indian films ever. On the global front, the film has amassed a staggering Rs 1,791.55 crore worldwide gross, including Rs 1,365.20 crore from India and Rs 426.35 crore from overseas markets.

Even after seven weeks, the film continues to attract audiences with over 700 shows running across the country, proving its extraordinary staying power at the ticket windows.

The film opened to historic numbers and maintained a strong grip at the box office throughout its theatrical run. Its first week alone brought in a phenomenal Rs 674.17 crore, setting the tone for its record-breaking journey.

Here’s how the film performed week by week:

Week 1 – Rs 674.17 crore

Week 2 – Rs 263.65 crore

Week 3 – Rs 110.60 crore

Week 4 – Rs 54.70 crore

Week 5 – Rs 19.52 crore

Week 6 – Rs 12.45 crore

Week 7 – Rs 5.58 crore

While the collections naturally dipped over time, trade analysts believe the consistency of its run is what makes the achievement truly historic. The film also became the first Hindi movie ever to cross the Rs 1,000 crore net mark in India, a feat many considered impossible until now.

One of the biggest highlights of ‘Dhurandhar 2’ has been its global success. The film has officially surpassed the lifetime worldwide gross of Baahubali 2: The Conclusion, which had earned Rs 1,788.06 crore during its theatrical run.

With this achievement, ‘Dhurandhar 2’ has now become the second highest-grossing Indian film worldwide, trailing only Dangal.

However, the film is still behind Pushpa 2 in terms of India net collections. Reports suggest ‘Pushpa 2’ earned Rs 1,234.10 crore net domestically while collecting over Rs 1,471 crore globally.

The success story extends beyond a single movie. Combined worldwide earnings of the ‘Dhurandhar’ franchise have reportedly crossed Rs 3,100 crore, making it the first Indian film series to achieve the milestone. Unlike the first installment, the sequel is expected to complete a full theatrical window before arriving on OTT platforms.

ALSO READ: Raja Shivaji Box Office Collection Day 7: Riteish Deshmukh’s Passion Project Maintains Momentum; Check

Raja Shivaji Box Office Collection Day 7: Riteish Deshmukh’s Passion Project Maintains Momentum; Check

Amrita Ghosh — Fri, 08 May 2026 09:09:01 +0530

Raja Shivaji Box Office Collection Day 7: Raja Shivaji continues its impressive theatrical run as audiences embrace Riteish Deshmukh in the role of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The historical drama has now crossed Rs 52 crore in India net collections

After an impressive opening weekend, Raja Shivaji continued to perform steadily during the weekdays. On Day 7, the film reportedly earned Rs 4 crore across India from more than 6,000 shows.

The Marathi version once again led the collections with Rs 2.75 crore, while the Hindi version contributed Rs 1.25 crore. With this, the film’s total India net collection has climbed to Rs 52.65 crore, while the gross domestic earnings stand at Rs 62.42 crore.

The movie had collected Rs 33.9 crore during its opening weekend itself, setting the tone for a successful theatrical run.

ALSO READ: Raja Shivaji Box Office Collection Day 5: Riteish Deshmukh’s Raja Shivaji Sees Massive Box Office Success

Before release, many moviegoers were unsure whether Riteish Deshmukh would be able to convincingly portray Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on the big screen. However, the actor-director has surprised critics and audiences alike with his performance.

The film is being seen as one of Riteish’s most ambitious projects, as he has not only acted in the lead role but also written and directed the movie. Viewers have especially appreciated the emotional depth, large-scale battle sequences, and the respectful portrayal of Shivaji Maharaj’s journey.

The Marathi audience, in particular, has shown strong support for the film, which is reflected in its box office numbers.

Apart from Riteish, the film features an ensemble cast including Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Genelia Deshmukh, Fardeen Khan, Vidya Balan, and Sachin Khedekar among others.

One of the major highlights of the film is the cameo appearance by Salman Khan as Jiva Mahala, which has generated excitement among fans. The anthem track ‘Chhatrapati’ has also gained popularity due to special appearances by several celebrities and public figures.

The music of the film has been composed by the popular duo Ajay-Atul, whose background score and songs have added emotional weight to the historical drama.