2026 wasn't ready for a shocker in the first month itself. Arijit Singh is known for his soulful voice and tracks that has often been emotionally rich. An experience for fans, however, with the new year the singers drops a shocking news for fans revealing that he is calling it off as a playback vocalist. This news has left the fans shocked as their favourite singer from Btown wraps his journey. Arijit Singh drops the news through his social media handle In a long post on X (formerly known as Twitter) Arijit Singh shared the news about retiring as playback vocalist. He said, "Hello, Happy new year to all. I want to thank you for giving me so much of love all these years as listeners. I am happy to announce that I am not gonna be taking any new assignments as a playback vocalist from now on. I am calling it off. It was a wonderful journey." He further got candid about continuing music as an artist, "God has been really kind to me. I am fan of good music and in future will be learning more and do more on my own as a small little artist. Thanks again for all your support." While fans wonder whether Salman Khan's Matrubhumi from Battle of Galwan was his last song, Arijit Singh shared that there are still few unfinished projects left for the year that shall release soon, "I still have to finish some pending commitments , will finish them. So you might get some releases this year. Just to be clear that I won't stop making music." Fans react to the news As soon as Arijit Singh shared the news, fans flooded his post with shocked reactions. A user wrote, "No no no! Please don't do this to us, it iwll be one of the biggest losses to all music lovers and moreover to your fans. I'm sure you have your reasons, but please rethink your decision." One of them added, "Noo, today is 27th Jan and not 1st April. Keh do ki yeh jhoot hai." A user also wrote, "Please don't do that, please sing your voice is peace to many fans." One of them penned, "Why are you robbing us of our joy? You have no idea how much peace your voice brings to us." Another one wrote, "Dada, please don't do this. Please! I would love to experience your music as a composer. But please don't quit Bollywood. You may reduce the quantity, but please maintain a balance. We want your music in Bollywood too..."
27 January,2026 08:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe nominations for the BAFTA (British Academy of Film and Television Arts) Awards 2026 were announced on Tuesday. Manipuri film Boong is the only Indian movie to be nominated at the prestigious awards this year. Directed by Lakshmipriya Devi, the film has been nominated in the Best Children’s and Family Film category. The film has been backed by Excel Entertainment, Chalkboard Entertainment, and Suitable Pictures. It premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2024. About Boong Boong finds itself in distinguished company alongside films such as Ugo Bienvenu’s animated French sci-fi film Arco, Dean Fleischer Camp’s American sci-fi comedy Lilo & Stitch, and Jared Bush and Byron Howard’s Zootropolis (Zootopia) 2. Meanwhile, Paul Thomas Anderson’s politically charged action thriller One Battle After Another leads the BAFTA race with 14 nominations, including acting nods for five of its cast members. Boong narrates the story of a young boy from a Manipuri village who lives with his single mother after the unexplained disappearance of his father, Joykumar. Once employed out of town, Joykumar vanishes without a trace, leaving the family grappling with unanswered questions. Determined to give his mother “the best gift ever,” the boy embarks on a journey with his friend to find his missing father, forming the emotional heart of the film. Boong is the first feature film from Devi, who earlier served as a first assistant director on Akhtar and Sidhwani's Excel Entertainment movies such as Luck by Chance, and Talaash, besides Aamir Khan-starrer PK, and Mira Nair's series, A Suitable Boy. Devi shared the news in a post on her Instagram Stories and wrote, "@bafta- grateful, in shock." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Excel Entertainment (@excelmovies) Other BAFTA nominees Ryan Coogler’s blues-infused vampire epic Sinners follows closely with 13 nominations, while Chloé Zhao’s Shakespearean family tragedy Hamnet and Josh Safdie’s ping-pong odyssey Marty Supreme have received 11 nominations each. The Best Film nominees include One Battle After Another, Hamnet, Marty Supreme, Sinners, and Norwegian family drama Sentimental Value. Best Leading Actor contenders are Robert Aramayo (I Swear), Timothée Chalamet (Marty Supreme), Leonardo DiCaprio (One Battle After Another), Ethan Hawke (Blue Moon), Michael B. Jordan (Sinners), and Jesse Plemons (Bugonia). The BAFTA Awards 2026 will take place at London's Royal Festival Hall on February 22.
27 January,2026 08:22 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentChitrangda Singh’s first look from the upcoming film Battle of Galwan has set the tone for a performance rooted in emotional authenticity. Unveiled through the patriotic track Maatrubhumi, the visuals introduce her as a soldier’s wife, a role that steps away from glamour and spectacle, opting instead for restraint, grace, and lived emotion. Dressed in modest traditional attire and minimal makeup, Chitrangda embodies the countless Indian women who stand as silent pillars behind the men in uniform. Chitranga Singh on Battle of Galwan Playing the emotional anchor to Salman Khan’s soldier, Chitrangda brings tenderness, dignity, and stability to the narrative. While the soldier faces the harsh realities at the border, the film positions his wife as the unseen strength at home, representing families who serve the nation in ways often unspoken and unnoticed. Opposite Salman, she looks unexpectedly perfect, their pairing lending the film both warmth and gravitas, making it one of the most compelling casting coups in recent memory. For Chitrangda, the role carried an unexpected personal resonance. Growing up as the daughter of an Indian Army officer, she was familiar with uniforms, postings, and regimented discipline, but prepping for Battle of Galwan gave her a deeper emotional gaze into that world. Speaking about prepping for the role, Chitrangda says, “My father was in the Indian Army, and growing up, listening to his stories was normal for me, but playing the role of an army wife is different. When I met army wives, I understood my mother’s silences, her pride mixed with worry. These women carry that same blend of strength and fear every day. I tried to bring that complexity to the role, not just the smile or the courage, but the part where you learn to hold it together even when your heart is breaking.” More about Maatrubhumi song The song features Salman Khan as an Indian Army officer alongside Chitrangda Singh, with their on-screen pairing appearing refreshingly organic and instantly relatable. Portrayed as a family with two young children, the visuals move seamlessly between moments of warmth within their home and stark, stirring glimpses of the Galwan battlefield. As the family is seen singing Maatrubhumi, these domestic frames are intercut with scenes of duty and conflict, powerfully juxtaposing love, sacrifice, and service to the nation, thereby strengthening the song’s emotional and patriotic impact. Maatrubhumi serves as the emotional and patriotic anchor of Battle of Galwan. The song is composed by Himesh Reshammiya, widely regarded as a master of melodies, who once again delivers a tune that is both soulful and impactful. Speaking about the song, Himesh said, “Composing Maatrubhumi for Battle of Galwan was deeply emotional. Inspired by the rhythm and intensity of army beats, the song found its soul there. Collaborating with Arijit Singh and Shreya Ghoshal was special, and of course reuniting with Salman Khan, also marking the music release from Salman Khan Films Music label makes it truly memorable.”
27 January,2026 08:06 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentDZee Studios, in association with Kyoorius Digital Pvt Ltd, Pincmoon Meta Studios, and Movie Mill Entertainment, unveiled the trailer of Gandhi Talks, a film that powerfully reinforces the makers’ belief in courageous, content-led cinema and storytelling that dares to break convention. Gandhi Talks trailer In an industry dominated by noise and spectacle, Gandhi Talks arrives with restraint and confidence. The trailer speaks volumes without dialogue, relying on evocative imagery, charged silences, and emotional depth. It is a cinematic statement that trusts its audience to listen not just with their ears, but with their instincts. Headlined by a stellar ensemble cast featuring Vijay Sethupathi, Arvind Swami, Aditi Rao Hydari, and Siddharth Jadhav, the trailer offers glimpses of performances rooted in nuance and internal conflict. With no spoken words to lean on, expressions and presence take centre stage. Sharing his experience, Vijay Sethupathi says, “Gandhi Talks challenged me to express emotion without words. It’s a rare film where silence becomes the strongest dialogue.” Echoing this sentiment, Arvind Swami adds, “In a world drowning in noise, Gandhi Talks reminds us that silence can still shake a conscience. This is a film where words step aside and truth walks in quietly. Rahman’s genius music becomes its language.” Aditi Rao Hydari reflects on the film’s emotional core, saying, “What moved me most was how emotions are felt rather than spoken. The film allows vulnerability and silence to coexist beautifully.” For Siddharth Jadhav, the film reaffirmed cinema’s universal language. “Being part of a film that communicates so powerfully without dialogue was truly special. It reminds you why cinema speaks beyond words,” he shares. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Zee Studios (@zeestudiosofficial) More about Gandhi Talks Directed by Kishore Pandurang Belekar, Gandhi Talks is further elevated by the evocative music and background score of A R Rahman, where music becomes the emotional voice of the narrative. His compositions breathe life into the silences, while the voices of accomplished singers add depth and resonance to the film’s unspoken moments. In a bold and unconventional move, the makers released the trailer three days ahead of its musical culmination—an A R Rahman concert—marking a rare and thoughtful convergence of cinema and live music. This distinctive promotional approach mirrors the film’s philosophy: immersive, experiential, and driven by artistic intent. With Gandhi Talks, Zee Studios and the producers once again reaffirm their commitment to films that challenge norms, celebrate nuanced performances, and push the boundaries of Indian cinema. Gandhi Talks will be released in theatres on January 30, 2026.
27 January,2026 05:43 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActor and entrepreneur Alia Bhatt, who has always been a hands-on mother to daughter Raha, shares that once you become a parent, your perspective shifts. You start asking questions and become curious, involved, and careful. The supermom has learned to trust her instincts more. She believes that a natural sense of responsibility kicks in, guiding you to make thoughtful decisions for your child. Alia, who launched the babycare range under Ed-a-Mamma, exclusively tells mid-day there’s no such thing as perfect parenting and wants Raha to experience the feeling of safety and openness that she had growing up. When choosing what’s best for her daughter, Alia has learned to filter out the noise and focus on what matters – comfort, ease, and reliability. “Once you understand your child’s routine, choosing products becomes much more intuitive. And when in doubt, always check with your doctor,” she says. Alia Bhatt on the pressure faced by parents Being a mother has made Alia more empathetic towards other parents and the pressure one feels to get everything right. “You experience all the ups and downs of this journey firsthand. That worry of ‘Am I doing the right thing?’ is something every parent knows. You’re tired, you’re learning, and you’re constantly adjusting as you go. There’s no such thing as perfect parenting. Trust your instincts, take it one day at a time, and be kind to yourself through it all,” she shares as her two cents of wisdom for new parents. Alia Bhatt on the influence of her own childhood Alia is the daughter of filmmaker-producer Mahesh Bhatt and veteran actor Soni Razdan. She admits that her own childhood influenced the way she cares for her daughter today. “It’s less about copying everything, but certain things, like the feeling of safety and openness I had growing up, I want my child to experience too. At the same time, you also grow and learn as a parent, figuring things out as you go,” she concludes. On the acting front, Alia Bhatt is set to feature in Alpha, the first female-led film in YRF's spy universe, alongside Sharvari and Bobby Deol. She will also be seen in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love and War with Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal.
27 January,2026 05:15 PM IST | Mumbai | Oshin FernandesThe much anticipated comedy Dhamaal 4, starring Ajay Devgn and Riteish Deshmukh, has been postponed once again, with the makers now locking July 3, 2026 as its new theatrical release date. This marks the second shift in the film’s release schedule, as the team aims to avoid major box office clashes and secure a clearer window for the franchise’s return. Dhamaal 4 gets a new release date again Originally scheduled to release on March 19, 2026, during the Eid weekend, the film was expected to benefit from the festive holiday period. However, with several big ticket films lining up for the same window, the makers decided to push the release to June 12, 2026. The decision was taken to ensure the film did not get lost amid stiff competition from large scale action and pan Indian releases. Despite the earlier change, the June slot also proved to be crowded, prompting the producers to rethink their strategy. With multiple high profile films slated for mid June, the team has now moved Dhamaal 4 to early July. Trade sources suggest the new date is considered favourable and gives the film a better chance to attract family audiences during the summer break. Directed by Indra Kumar, Dhamaal 4 brings back the franchise’s original ensemble cast including Ajay Devgn, Riteish Deshmukh, Arshad Warsi, Sanjay Mishra and Jaaved Jaaferi. The film also introduces fresh faces such as Esha Gupta, Sanjeeda Shaikh, Anjali Anand, Upendra Limaye, Vijay Patkar and Ravi Kishan, adding new energy to the well loved comedy series. All about the Dhamaal franchise The Dhamaal franchise has enjoyed strong audience support over the years, beginning with Dhamaal in 2007, followed by Double Dhamaal in 2011 and Total Dhamaal in 2019. Known for its slapstick humour, chaotic situations and ensemble driven comedy, the series has remained a popular family entertainer. Produced by Devgn Films, T Series Films, Maruti International and Panorama Studios, Dhamaal 4 completed its shoot last year. With its revised July release, the makers are hopeful the film will deliver a laughter filled cinematic experience without the pressure of competing releases, giving audiences a reason to return to theatres for some light hearted fun.
27 January,2026 05:09 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe debut teaser of the globally acclaimed short film Thursday Special was unveiled on Tuesday, marking the coming together of filmmakers Shoojit Sircar and Vikramaditya Motwane as presenters. Directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Varun Tandon, Thursday Special is headlined by seasoned actors Anubha Fatehpuria and Ramakanth Dayama. About Thursday Special Billed as a tender exploration of love, companionship, and change, Thursday Special will be released on January 29 on the Humans of Cinema channel on YouTube after having already built a strong reputation on the international festival circuit. Sircar and Motwane’s decision to come on board as presenters, the filmmakers said, is rooted in a shared belief that short films remain a critical entry point — and sometimes an end goal — for contemporary filmmakers navigating an increasingly expensive industry. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Humans of Cinema | Harshit Bansal (@humansofcinema) Motwane on relevance of short films Speaking about the relevance of short films today, Motwane said they continue to be “an essential route to longer-format filmmaking,” even as technology has lowered entry barriers. “You can make a career out of making only short films, and most filmmakers use them as stepping stones towards features or series. It has become a lot easier in terms of technology and what you can achieve today in a short film, including the kind of budgets you can make them for. But overall, filmmaking has become expensive,” Motwane noted. The filmmaker, known for acclaimed titles like Black Warrant, Udaan and Lootera, also flagged distribution as the biggest challenge facing short filmmakers. “How do you get your films to the right audience? How do you get distribution for short films? Because there is not really a robust market in terms of money recovery. There was, maybe five or ten years ago, but that has diminished considerably,” he said, adding that support from established filmmakers can help bridge that gap. “If someone I respect is presenting a short film, I’m automatically curious. That visibility matters when these films become a showreel or a pathway to larger work.” Shoojit Sircar on short films Sircar echoed the sentiment, stressing the role short films play in fostering originality. The filmmaker, who had earlier stated that Thursday Special had reminded him of his unreleased Amitabh Bachchan-led feature Shoe Bite, added, “Short films have always been a vital space for learning and experimentation. They demand clarity, resourcefulness, and strong storytelling—skills essential for any filmmaker. In today’s landscape, where originality can feel scarce, short films offer fresh voices and new ideas. Established filmmakers play a crucial role by giving these voices a platform; sometimes a small push can make a lasting difference.” Thursday Special follows an elderly couple whose relationship unfolds through a weekly ritual built around food. The film is produced by Karan Luthra, written by Tandon with Krati Tandon as co-writer and executive producer. After premiering at Mecal Pro, Barcelona, Thursday Special has won over 25 awards across categories globally. These include Best Narrative Short at the New York Indian Film Festival, Best International Short Film at the Adelaide Independent Film Festival, and Best Narrative Short at the Tryon International Film Festival in the US, establishing a strong global festival presence ahead of its public release.
27 January,2026 05:07 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSunny Deol-starrer Border 2 continued its strong box office run, registering the biggest-ever Republic Day collection for a Hindi film with earnings of Rs 63.59 crore net on Day 4, the makers said on Tuesday. A sequel to Deol's 1997 blockbuster Border, the movie was released in theatres on January 23. Directed by Anurag Singh, the film is backed by T-Series and J P Films. The film also stars Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh and Ahan Shetty in pivotal roles. Border 2 box office In a press note, the makers said the movie's four-day domestic net box office collection (NBOC) stands at Rs 193.48 crore. "Marching ahead with unshakable momentum, 'Border 2' delivered a historic Day 4 performance on Republic Day, scripting a new benchmark for patriotic cinema at the box office. The film recorded a massive Rs 63.59 CR NBOC, marking the biggest Republic Day box office collection, earning a total of Rs 193.48 CR NBOC within just four days," read the note. Border 2 collected Rs 32.10 crore on its opening day, followed by Rs 40.59 crore on Day 2 and Rs 57.20 crore on Day 3. Trade analyst Taran Adarsh wrote on X, "There's absolutely no stopping Border2… The film has smashed ALL pre-release expectations by a wide, really wide margin... As for the social media trolls, the film's thunderous boxoffice performance has silenced them completely." He continued, "The war drama has posted a fantabulous extended weekend total [Friday to Monday], with the RepublicDay holiday delivering a massive boost to its business. While urban centres gathered terrific momentum post Saturday, the mass circuits have been roaring right from Friday... In fact, several cinemas across the Hindi heartland reported capacity issues, as the film recorded one of the biggest weekend totals in recent times. Border2 is trending like a BLOCKBUSTER, and the crucial Tuesday-to-Thursday hold will offer a clear indication of how long and how strong its run will be at the boxoffice." About Border 2 While the 1997 film was based on the events of the Battle of Longewala during the 1971 India-Pakistan war, Border 2 is also set against the backdrop of the same conflict. The movie reportedly didn't find a release in six Gulf nations -- Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) -- due its alleged anti-Pakistan narrative. A response from the makers is awaited. It is the second Indian film in recent times to be denied clearance for theatrical release in the Gulf countries after director Aditya Dhar's spy action movie Dhurandhar. Border 2 is produced by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, Dutta and Nidhi Dutta. It also features Mona Singh, Sonam Bajwa, Anya Singh, and Medha Rana in pivotal roles.
27 January,2026 04:18 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA franchise which gets people rolling in laughter just with the reference of its iconic tune and audiences have been waiting with much anticipation for the next edition, a comedy spectacle that promises unfiltered laughs, larger than life madness, and non-stop entertainment Welcome to the Jungle, has officially locked its theatrical release for 26th June 2026. About Welcome To The Jungle Packed with unique humour, outrageous situations, and rib-tickling hilarious moments with a blend of high-octane action and blockbuster music, Welcome to the Jungle delivers high-energy comedy on an epic scale. Blending chaos, charm, blasts and unapologetic fun, the film is designed to be a complete laugh riot, offering audiences a joyride filled with surprises, punchlines, and unforgettable moments. Directed by Ahmed Khan ‘Welcome to the Jungle’ boasts of a massive ensemble cast of over 30 actors, each a benchmark of talent and known for their excellent comic timing, a combination that is rare sight on the big screen. Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Jackie Shroff, Raveena Tandon, Disha Patani, Jacqueline Fernandez, Arshad Warsi, Paresh Rawal, Rajpal Yadav, Johnny lever, Aftab Shivdasani, Lara Dutta, Shreyas Talpade, Tusshar Kapoor, Daler Mehndi, Farida Jalal, Krishna Abhishek, Kiku Sharda, Kiran Kumar, Mukesh Tiwari, Yashpal Sharma, Vindu Dara Singh, Nawab Shah, Urvashi Rautela, Puneet Issar, Arjun Firoz Khan, Late Pankaj Dheer, Sudesh Berry, Hemant Pandey, Zakir Hussain, Sayaji Shinde and many more all come together to deliver an epic entertainer. Suniel Shetty on playing Yeda Anna Surprisingly, Suniel Shetty will be reprising his popular character of Yeda Anna from the 2005 film Awaara Paagal Deewaana. “Yeda Anna then was a double agent. Now he will add more chaos and laughter in Welcome to the Jungle [as someone] from the world of media and entertainment. People have created several memes on Paresh [Rawal] ji, Johny [Lever] bhai, and [my characters]. I am happy to do the [same] role in a different way. Yeda Anna has a sharper, more stylish look this time. The approach to the character is different,” explains Shetty. AA Nadiadwala and Star Studio18 present in association with Cape of Good Films and Seeta Films ‘Welcome To the Jungle’ is a Base Industries Group and Seeta Films Production and directed by Ahmed Khan is all set to hit theatres worldwide on 26th June 2026.
27 January,2026 03:54 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentGlobal Icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas is set to address the 23rd edition of the India Conference at Harvard University, scheduled to take place on 14 and 15 February 2026 in the USA. The conference organised by students at Harvard stands as one of the most influential student-driven platforms examining India’s evolving role on the world stage. Priyanka Chopra speaks at Harvard's India Conference Priyanka will join an eminent line-up of speakers, including Dr. Shashi Tharoor and Amitav Acharya, among other distinguished voices from policy, academia, business, and culture. This year’s theme, “The India We Imagine,” invites reflection on the values, complexities, and possibilities shaping India’s future by spotlighting voices that provoke thought and inspire collective imagination. Through its three subthemes, the conference explores the diverse forces influencing India’s identity, progress, and path forward - together weaving a vision for the nation’s future. As an annual global conference on Indian business, policy, and culture, it highlights India’s rise as a major global force. Few voices resonate with this theme as powerfully as Priyanka Chopra Jonas. An award-winning actor, producer, New York Times bestselling author, and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, she brings over 25 years of experience redefining storytelling across industries and borders. Through her work in film, business, and philanthropy, Priyanka has placed India at the centre of global conversations - using her platform to amplify Indian narratives with credibility, confidence, and impact. For over 22 years, Harvard students across schools have united to host experts from fields such as economics, education, business, and culture, offering a nuanced perspective on India’s present landscape and future potential. Priyanka’s participation underscores how her powerful global voice aligns seamlessly with the conference’s mission - reflecting the India we imagine and the India she continues to represent on the world stage. Priyanka's upcoming projects Priyanka will be seen next in The Bluff, a high-octane action drama featuring Karl Urban, that centres around the survival of a family on an island. Set in the late 1800s, The Bluff shares the journey of Ercell Bodden, a former pirate known by the name of Bloody Mary. As she successfully builds a different life for herself after fleeing her ruthless crew, predominantly taking the role of a mother living in the Cayman Islands, her past returns to haunt her. Her former crew tracks her down, forcing her to face the violent world she was once a part of. The film is directed by Frank E Flowers with a script he co-wrote with Joe Ballarini. Siblings Anthony Russo, Joe Russo and Angela Russo-Otstot serve as the producers of the film under the production banner AGBO. The Bluff will premiere on the OTT platform Prime Video from February 25.
27 January,2026 03:15 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentFollowing the strong buzz around its trailer, Sajid Nadiadwala’s O’Romeo raises the tempo with its second song, Aashiqon Ki Colony, a lively, high-energy dance number that instantly stands out. Infused with a distinct 90s visual sensibility and powered by contemporary beats, the track seamlessly blends nostalgia with a modern pulse, driven by a hook that’s effortlessly catchy and instantly engaging. Aashiqon Ki Colony out The song brings together an iconic creative trio. Composed by Vishal Bhardwaj, written by Gulzar, and voiced by Madhubanti Bagchi and Javed Ali, Aashiqon Ki Colony carries a playful spirit that feels rooted yet refreshed. It channels the joy and warmth of classic Bollywood music while staying firmly in tune with today’s soundscape. The music is presented by T-Series. Adding to the song’s appeal is a fresh on-screen pairing. Shahid Kapoor and Disha Patani come together for the first time, bringing a dynamic energy that feels spontaneous and electric. Set against a vibrant, celebratory backdrop, both actors embrace the rhythm in their own distinct styles. Shahid appears in a rugged new look, slipping in a slick, Michael Jackson-inspired move that adds a memorable surprise, while Disha exudes confidence and ease, her performance marked by fluidity, grace, and infectious charm. With its throwback flavour, Indianized soul, and beats designed to get audiences moving, Aashiqon Ki Colony captures the essence of timeless Bollywood dance numbers - reimagined with a fresh, contemporary edge. Fun, spirited, and unapologetically energetic, the track adds another vibrant musical moment to O’Romeo as the film builds momentum toward its Valentine’s Week release. Vishal Bharadwaj addresses O' Romeo controversy Sanober Sheikh, the daughter of Hussain Ustara (whose life has reportedly inspired the film), has slapped the makers of O’Romeo with a legal notice. Sanober claims the film offers a wrong portrayal of her father and has demanded Rs 2 crore in compensation. She denied reports that her family threatened the makers of the upcoming film O’Romeo, saying they have resorted only to legal action and are asking for a pre-release screening to ensure an accurate portrayal of her father’s life. At the trailer launch, Vishal Bharadwaj addressed the claim. “There is a book called Mafia Queens of Mumbai. Hussain Zaidi has written that story. I took the rights of that story and made a film on it. I didn't think because that story is based on that story. The characters are the same, but there is a lot of fiction in it. Hussain Zaidi must have taken that permission or should have taken it. I didn't think I needed it because it's based on a story which is part of a book. The film didn't happen before, and it's finally happened now." O’Romeo releases in cinemas this Valentine’s Week on 13th February 2026.
27 January,2026 02:03 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
