Four More Shots Please co-stars Kirti Kulhari and Rajeev Siddhartha were rumoured to be dating for quite some time. However, they remained tight-lipped about it despite dropping mushy pics time and again. Now, as we enter the New Year, it looks like the couple has seemingly made their relationship Instagram official by sharing a love-filled post. This also comes soon after the fourth season of the renowned series streamed on Netflix. Kirti Kulhari confirms relationship with Rajeev Siddhartha On New Year 2026, Kirti Kulhari and Rajeev Siddhartha took to their Instagxram to share their cosy pictures together. The caption of the post read, “A picture is worth a thousand words… #happynewyear happy2026 everyone…." Soon after they shared the post, Maanvi Gagroo commented, “Happy new year, lovelies." While Kirti plays Anjana Menon in the series, Rajeev plays Mihir Shah, who is romantically paired opposite Siddhi, the character essayed by Maanvi Gagroo. Many even tagged Maanvi and penned fun comments. One of them read, “Anjana and Mihir in a parallel universe... Sidddiii pidddiii, are u seeing what Anj is doingg?" View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kirti Kulhari (@iamkirtikulhari) Their dating rumours surfaced last month, after fans noticed their sweet notes for each other on social media. The speculation gained momentum after Kirti posted a photo with Rajeev on social media in November. A report in India Today also stated that the two started off as friends while working together and soon realised their bond was deeper than friendship. About Kirti Kulhari and Saahil Sehgal For the unversed, Kirti Kulhari was married to actor Saahil Sehgal, but the two parted ways in 2021 after five years. Announcing the separation, the actor had issued a statement on social media, stating how the decision was 'mutual'. The note posted on Instagram read, “A simple note to let everyone know that my husband Saahil and I have decided to separate. Not on paper, but in life. A decision that's probably harder than the decision of ‘being with somebody,’ because coming together is celebrated by everyone you love and care about, and the decision of ‘not being with somebody’ brings along pain and hurt to the same people. It's not easy.” On the work front, Kirti was last seen in Tannishtha Chatterjee-directed Full Plate. The film premiered at several acclaimed festivals, and the actress was praised for her stint as a homemaker with a talent for cooking, fighting customs, patriarchy, and stereotypes while keeping her quirky spirit alive.
02 January,2026 09:32 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentLegendary screenwriter Javed Akhtar has warned of legal action against those who have circulated a deepfake video of him showing that he has turned into God. Sharing a note on X (formerly Twitter), the veteran lyricist and poet condemned the video as “rubbish” and warned he may report it to cyber authorities. Javed Akhtar warns action against fake AI video On Thursday, Javed Akhtar took to his X, formerly Twitter, and shared a long note in which he spoke about the alleged video and issued clarification. He wrote, “A fake video is in circulation showing my fake computer-generated picture with a topi on my head claiming that ultimately I have turned to God. It is rubbish.” He further mentioned, “I am seriously considering reporting this to the cyber police and ultimately dragging the person responsible for this fake news, and those few who forward it, to court for damaging my reputation and credibility.” A fake video is in circulation showing my fake computer generated picture with a topi on my head claiming that ultimately I have turned to God . It is rubbish . I am seriously considering to report this to the cyber police and ultimately dragged the person responsible for this… — Javed Akhtar (@Javedakhtarjadu) January 1, 2026 The tweet quickly gained traction on social media, with many users expressing concern over how easily AI-generated content can misrepresent public figures. Several fans and colleagues extended their support to Akhtar. About Javed Akhtar’s debate on God and justice For those unaware, the AI-generated video of Javed Akhtar reportedly surfaced shortly after he participated in a public debate on Gaza, God, and justice. A few days ago, Javed Akhtar and Islamic scholar Mufti Shamail Nadwi engaged in a high-profile public debate in New Delhi titled Does God Exist? Akhtar, well known for his secular and atheistic views, challenged traditional theistic arguments, raising questions about faith, evidence, and reason. Mufti Nadwi, educated in classical Islamic scholarship, defended theistic positions, grounding his arguments in logic, philosophical reasoning, and theological premises. The exchange quickly went viral online, drawing sharp reactions across social media and commentary platforms from believers, agnostics, and secular thinkers alike. Some viewers hailed the mufti’s rebuttals as persuasive and applauded his delivery, while others felt Akhtar’s secular reasoning was compelling. The debate reignited broader conversations about faith, logic, and public discourse in India’s diverse society. The issue of AI misuse in the entertainment industry has come into focus in recent times. Several celebrities have raised alarms over deepfake videos, morphed images, and fake audio clips. Some have even approached the high court to protect their personality rights.
02 January,2026 08:19 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentNearly six years after it struck a chord with audiences, Dear Comrade (2019) is set for a second innings —this time in Hindi. Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions, which acquired the official Hindi remake rights soon after the Telugu film’s release, is now actively moving the project forward. Sources close to the development confirm that the studio is pushing the project ahead. According to insiders, Siddhant Chaturvedi and Pratibha Ranta are the frontrunners to headline the adaptation, though the casting is not yet locked. Karan Johar A source close to the project tells mid-day, “Dharma has been keen on revisiting Dear Comrade for a while, but the idea was always to crack the right casting and tone. Siddhant brings the intensity required for the male lead, which became a hit with people after Dhadak 2 [2025]. Pratibha fits the emotional arc of the female protagonist beautifully. She was in talks with the studio for another project and is a good fit for this as well.” While Bharat Kamma’s directorial venture received a mixed box-office response, Dear Comrade developed a strong following over time. The source adds, “The Hindi version will retain the emotional core of the original but will be adapted for a pan-India sensibility. Dharma is conscious that the subject is sensitive and relevant even today.” “This is not being treated as a routine remake. The idea is to reimagine Dear Comrade for a new audience without diluting what made the original special,” the source concludes. Did you know? Originally, the Hindi version was to star Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna, but the project was pushed post-pandemic Shot to fame with ‘Laapataa Ladies’ (2023), Pratibha Ranta’s next project is ‘The Revolutionaries’. She is also rumoured to star in Kartik Aaryan’s ‘Naagzilla’ Siddhant Chaturvedi, the breakout star from ‘Gully Boy’ (2019) is prepping for ‘V Shantaram’ and ‘Do Deewane Seher Mein’
02 January,2026 07:31 AM IST | Mumbai | Mohar BasuSince Kriti Sanon turned producer with Do Patti (2024), the industry has been waiting to see what stories she chooses to back next. While she has remained busy with acting commitments, the actor-producer insists she is in no hurry to announce another home production — waiting instead for a script that truly speaks to her. So what is holding her back from announcing her next production? “Honestly, I haven’t found anything that I have set my heart on to produce,” she tells mid-day. “There is some work in process on a few ideas that we are toying with and trying to figure out what works the best which also can translate into a beautiful script. But it has not materialised completely. I am trying to figure out the next part of the upcoming project for my production house.” She is also clear that producing does not always mean stepping in front of the camera. “I don’t think I intend to act in all my productions. If it happens to be something that I feel excited about as an actor, and if I fit the role, then why not? I do want to tell some stories that I feel I connect to and are passionate about .” As a producer, she believes responsibility goes beyond storytelling. “I think there has to be equality among the cast and crew. Whether it is hiring people, the pay structure, how you treat people, the food on sets, or the working hours, etc.” She adds that she hopes to back more films that offer women layered, morally grey roles — stories with “heart and soul”. The actor will be seen sharing the screen with Shahid Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna in ‘Cocktail 2’Kriti Sanon’s last film, ‘Tere Ishk Mein’ with Dhanush, reportedly earned Rs 170 crore, making it one of the most successful films last year.
02 January,2026 07:23 AM IST | Mumbai | Upala KBRAfter closing 2025 on a high with the acclaimed Raat Akeli Hai: The Bansal Murders, Chitrangada Singh is gearing up for an even bigger 2026. The actor will be seen opposite Salman Khan in Apoorva Lakhia’s large-scale war drama Battle of Galwan, slated for an April theatrical release. While the teaser — fronted by Khan — is already out, Singh admits that sharing screen space with the superstar for the first time came with a fair bit of nervousness. “A lot of things people say that he [Khan] is like this, he is like that. So, I was very nervous,” she tells mid-day. But her experience working with him trumped any rumour she had heard. The actor, in fact, heaps praise at Khan’s on set conduct, crediting him for looking out for the film’s crew. Salman Khan on the sets of ‘Battle of Galwan’. PICS/INSTAGRAM “It’s the most fun being on sets with him. Even if there’s a light man or anybody else, he makes sure that everybody is looked after, has eaten food. He would keep a good break for breakfast, then a proper one for lunch. There is no stress when he is around,” she says, adding that this lightness on set helps everyone perform their best. “The funny thing is that work happens and it’s good because everyone is in such a good mood. There is no screaming, no abusing; there’s nothing of that sorts going on. There’s a great environment on set, that’s the best thing,” she says. In the Lakhia-directed war drama, Khan plays an army officer. Besides his off-screen behaviour, his co-star is also left impressed with Khan’s approach to his work. Delighted with his “spontaneity”, Singh says, “He is lovely as an actor. The best thing about him is that there won’t be any emotional line or moment that he will do in the most predictable way. It will be in the most twisted way possible and then that will somehow work. He makes it work,” she smiles. Chitrangada Singh’s ‘Raat Akeli Hai: The Bansal Murders’ (2025) has received rave reviews. The film is streaming on OTT ‘Battle of Galwan’ is scheduled to release on April 17
02 January,2026 07:16 AM IST | Mumbai | Priyanka SharmaFarhan Akhtar’s much-anticipated Don 3 has been in the headlines for quite some time now. Recently, Ranveer Singh’s exit from the film made a lot of noise. Earlier, Kiara Advani and Vikrant Massey had also exited from the project. Now reports have emerged that the makers are now considering The Ba***ds of Bollywood star Rajat Bedi as a replacement for the role of Vikrant Massey. Rajat Bedi to replace Vikrant Massey in Don 3? A recent Hindustan Times report suggests that Farhan Akhtar has shown interest in casting actor Rajat Bedi, who set the internet buzzing with his comeback in Aryan Khan's directorial The Ba***ds of Bollywood (2025). The 51-year-old actor is reportedly in talks with the makers for an important role in the third instalment of the franchise. Rajat could be seen stepping in the shoes of Vikrant in the film. A source close to development told the portal, “Farhan is considering Rajat Bedi to play a pivotal part for which Vikrant was roped in originally. The actor-producer have done an official conversation around and the two are planning to meet around mid of Jan at their Khar office in Mumbai.” Earlier in July 2025, a report by Bollywood Hungama revealed that Vikrant took an exit from the film. Industry insiders stated that Vikrant quit the film due to the lack of depth in this role and the requirement for a transformation. Although many reports later suggested that Aditya Roy Kapur and Vijay Deverakonda were being considered for Vikrant’s role, there has been no official confirmation from the makers on the same. About Don 3 The third instalment of Don is seen as a crucial project for Farhan Akhtar, who has been at the helm of the franchise. With a meeting planned between Farhan Akhtar and Rajat Bedi expected to take place in mid-January at their Khar office in Mumbai, the industry is waiting to see if an official casting will be done. Meanwhile, recent reports also claimed that the makers were in talks with Hrithik Roshan for the lead role after Ranveer Singh quit the film. “At the moment, everyone is in the festive mood, and things will only start rolling next year. The script needs to be altered to suit a new hero, and only once that is locked, they will be on the hunt for their new Don. While Hrithik could be a great choice, all the chatter is untrue as of now,” the source told India Today.
01 January,2026 09:37 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentEsha Deol rang in the New Year, spending the evening quietly in Dubai. As she celebrated her first New Year without her late father, legendary actor Dharmendra, she remembered him and made sure to include him in her celebrations. Esha Deol remembers Dharmendra on the New Year 2026 Esha took to Instagram on Wednesday night to share glimpses from her silent celebration. In one of the photos, she is seen gazing up at the moon against Dubai’s glittering skyline, with the view of the Burj Khalifa behind her. She is seen dressed in a black-and-gold outfit layered with a black jacket. She is seen pointing toward the night sky. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ESHA DHARMENDRA DEOL (@imeshadeol) Esha wrote, “Love you, papa," in the sky where she is seen pointing up. The message instantly made her followers emotional, capturing the pain of the legend's absence. Bobby Deol reacts Among the many reactions, one that caught the eye was from Esha’s half-brother Bobby Deol. The Animal actor responded with red heart emojis in the comments. The gesture reinforced the bond between the siblings during an emotionally challenging time for the Deol family. In recent times, reports surfaced about separate prayer meetings held by different branches of the family after Dharmendra’s passing. One was held by Hema Malini, Esha and Ahana Deol, while the other was held by Sunny and Bobby Deol. Legendary star Dharmendra passed away on November 24, 2025, leaving a deep void in Hindi cinema. The actor's demise has been mourned across the country, with fans and colleagues paying heartfelt tributes that reflect the profound impact he had on Indian cinema and popular culture. Reflecting on her bond with her late father, Esha wrote on her Instagram handle, "To my darling Papa..Our pact, the strongest bond . " us " through all our lifetimes, all the realms and beyond ..... We are always together papa . Be it heaven or earth . We are one .For now I have very tenderly, carefully & preciously tucked you in my heart ... deep deep inside to carry on with me for the rest of this lifetime."Esha recalled moments of warmth, laughter and long conversations that defined their relationship. "The magical precious memories..... life lessons, the teachings, the guidance, the warmth, the unconditional love, the dignity and the strength you have given me as your daughter cannot be replaced or matched by any other." The 'Dhoom' actor said she "painfully" misses Dharmendra and remembered his "warm protective hugs". "I so painfully miss you papa ... your warm protective hugs that felt like the cosiest blanket, holding your soft yet strong hands which had unspoken messages & your voice calling out my name that followed with endless conversations, laughter & shayaris. Your motto is" always be humble, be happy, healthy & strong." She added, "I promise to continue your legacy with pride & respect. And I will try my best to spread your love to the millions who love you as I do. I love you pap, Your darling daughter, Your Esha, your Bittu." (WIth inputs from ANI)
01 January,2026 07:10 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentStar cricketer Virat Kohli's first post of 2026 sets the internet abuzz, as he shared a stunning picture with his ladylove Anushka Sharma from their New Year celebrations in Dubai, UAE. The couple was dressed to impress as Virat donned a navy blue suit and Anushka sported a gorgeous black dress. Anushka and Virat's New Year On New Year's day, Virat took to his Instagram feed to wish his followers and shared a picture with Anushka from their New Year celebration. Virat and Anushka were joined by their family members for the New Year bash. Virat's brother Vikas Kohli also shared a couple of pictures from last night's party. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Virat Kohli (@virat.kohli) In one of the images, Virat could be seen posing with his father-in-law, brother, and brother-in-law. "The Boys," Vikas captioned the post. In another post, the entire family posed together. Anushka's mother and Virat's sister Bhawna, and sister-in-law Chetna were also present. One can also spot Virat's niece and nephews in this fam-jam picture. VIRAT KOHLI & ANUSHKA SHARMA CELEBRATING NEW YEAR WITH FAMILY & FRIENDS. ♥️- Cutest Picture of the Day. pic.twitter.com/pCmAJN6eBL — Tanuj (@ImTanujSingh) January 1, 2026 On New Year's Eve, he uploaded a beautiful picture with Anushka, writing, "Stepping into 2026 with the light of my life, @anushkasharma." The snap captured Virat and Anushka sharing warm smiles, with their faces playfully painted. Half of his face was painted with a Spider-Man design, while a beautiful butterfly was painted around Anushka's eye. Virat Kohli's work front Virat recently scored 208 runs in two matches in the Vijay Hazare Trophy so far at an average of 104.00 and a strike rate of 128, including a 101-ball 131 against Andhra Pradesh and a brisk 77 in 61 balls against Gujarat. Virat's return to VHT after 15 years has also witnessed him complete a couple of milestones, reaching the 1,000-run mark in the tournament's history and also becoming the second Indian after Sachin Tendulkar and the fastest batter to reach the 16,000-run landmark in List A cricket. Anushka Sharma's work front and upcoming projects The actress was last seen in a cameo in the Triptii Dimri starrer 'Qala'. She has not been seen in a full-fledged role since the 2018 film Zero. She shot for the film Chakda Express based on the biographical account of the Indian cricketer Jhulan Goswami a few years back. The release for the Netflix film has been stalled due to certain creative disagreements. The makers are reportedly looking for another platform to release it. (with inputs from ANI)
01 January,2026 06:50 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe year 2025 began on a high note for young actor Zahan Kapoor. His Netflix series Black Warrant, released in January 2025, marked a significant milestone in his career. Playing a rookie jailer posted at Tihar Jail, Zahan delivered a restrained, understated performance that earned praise from critics and audiences alike, with many calling it one of the year’s most impactful shows. No show for Zahan Kapoor Yet, nearly a year later, the actor has not announced a new film or series. Amid growing curiosity, Zahan has revealed that he is yet to sign his next project. Speaking to Hindustan Times, Zahan reflected on the continued response to Black Warrant. “It’s a gift that keeps on giving. The international recognition is very heart-warming and humbling. These are not things you anticipate, they’re surprises. I’m always pleasantly taken aback when people tell me how the show impacted them. I genuinely don’t know what the future holds,” he said. Addressing why he hasn’t taken on a new project since the show, Zahan offered a candid take on the industry. “There are some interesting things I hope will materialise, but it’s been slow. Even if people love your work, you’re still at the mercy of much bigger forces. Despite many calling Black Warrant the best series of the year, it’s been difficult to make things happen. I want to be busy, I want to work with people I believe in, but I haven’t signed anything yet.” Zahan is not chasing PR and image building More importantly, the actor is clear about what he isn’t chasing- visibility for the sake of relevance. “There are many people who make announcements, but then nothing comes of their films. That’s often about staying in the public eye. I’m not chasing relevance; I’m chasing people and stories,” he said. Zahan added that he has consciously stayed away from manufacturing PR buzz. “Managing my image is not my agenda. I trust that if I show up and serve the story honestly, everything else will follow.” For Zahan, the journey is about long-term impact rather than instant validation. “My aim is to be part of this mad world of media and entertainment in the biggest way possible, but through generosity, not self-indulgence. It took me 10 years to get here—maybe it’ll take another 10. I want to earn my magazine covers and endorsements, not have them as part of a strategy.”
01 January,2026 06:12 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentWhile many have praised box office juggernaut Dhurandhar on social media, few have done so as passionately as filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma. The Satya director has shared multiple posts on X applauding the film and director Aditya Dhar’s craft. He is now openly rooting for the sequel, Dhurandhar 2, which is set to release in theatres on March 19, 2026. Ram Gopal Varma roots for Dhurandhar 2 Dhurandhar 2 will clash at the box office with Yash-starrer Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups, which also features Nayanthara, Huma Qureshi, and Kiara Advani. Ahead of the high-stakes showdown, Varma has clearly picked his side—and there are no surprises. In a recent post, he hinted that Toxic may not stand a chance against Dhurandhar 2 in terms of box office numbers. “DHURANDHAR 2’s BITE will be TOXIC,” Ram Gopal Varma wrote on X, formerly Twitter. This isn’t the first time the filmmaker has taken a swipe at South Indian cinema while praising Dhurandhar. Earlier this week, he posted, “THE FIRE BALL of the SOUTHIES invasion into BOLLYWOOD has been KICKED back by AdityaDharFilms’ left foot, named #Dhurandhar, and now his right foot is getting ready with Dhurandhar 2. From what I saw of the second part, if the first SCARED them, the second will TERRIFY them.” DHURANDHAR 2 ‘ S BITE will be TOXIC — Ram Gopal Varma (@RGVzoomin) December 31, 2025 About Dhurandhar Directed by Aditya Dhar, Dhurandhar is nearing a month since its theatrical release and continues to dominate the box office. The Ranveer Singh-led film has crossed Rs 1,000 crore globally and entered the Rs 700 crore club in India. Inspired by real events, Dhurandhar follows an Indian spy who infiltrates Pakistani gangs to gather intelligence on potential attacks. Despite its successful theatrical run, the film has been banned in several Gulf countries. A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE have not released Dhurandhar. There were apprehensions that this might happen, as the film is perceived as ‘anti-Pakistan’.” The film also stars Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, Sara Arjun, Rakesh Bedi, and Arjun Rampal in key roles. About Toxic Written by Yash and Geetu Mohandas and directed by Mohandas, Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups has been filmed simultaneously in Kannada and English, with dubbed versions planned in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and several other languages, highlighting its global ambition. The film features a strong technical team, including National Award-winning cinematographer Rajeev Ravi, composer Ravi Basrur, editor Ujwal Kulkarni, and production designer TP Abid. It is slated for a grand theatrical release on March 19, 2026, coinciding with Eid, Ugadi, and Gudi Padwa.
01 January,2026 06:00 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentVicky Kaushal recently shared an update on his upcoming film, Sanjay Leela Bhansali's magnum opus, Love and War. Days after reports of the film being delayed emerged, the actor has confirmed that the team is currently shooting for the film. Vicky Kaushal shares an update on Love and War Speaking to Just Too Filmy, Vicky Kaushal opened up about working with Sanjay Leela Bhansali and said, "It's on the bucket list of every actor to be a part of a Sanjay Leela Bhansali film. I've admired his films, I've admired him as a filmmaker, and I think he's truly a unique voice from India, someone who has a vision, who tells stories in ways nobody else can." He then went on to share an update on the shoot, saying, "He truly is a master of the craft of filmmaking. I genuinely feel blessed that in just ten years of my career, I'm getting to be a part of his film with two fantastic actors that we all adore, Ranbir and Alia. So yes, we are filming right now. We are having a great time filming it, and we'll see you next year." Notably, earlier, in an interview with ET, Alia Bhatt, who will also be seen in the film revealed, "It's a very special film. We've been shooting it throughout the year, and it never feels like enough. You always want one more day, one more moment, one more scene where you're just jamming the energy." Love and War Delayed A Bollywood Hungama report recently suggested that Love and War will "miss its Eid 2026 deadline" to avoid a box-office clash with Yash's Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups. According to the report, the film is currently "much behind its shooting schedule." A source reportedly told the portal, "It's a blessing in disguise, as it made no sense for two Pan-Indian films to clash on the same date. Love and War is running much behind its shooting schedule and will now release in the second half of 2026. Around 75 days of shoot still remain, and Sanjay Leela Bhansali has requested Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal to allot bulk dates till summer 2026 to wrap up the film." The makers have not officially announced a new release date or confirmed the delay.
01 January,2026 04:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
