Director Prahlad Kakkar has shared his opinion on music composer Vishal Dadlani’s sarcastic remark on the discussion about Vande Mataram in the Parliament. Earlier, Vishal had criticised the discourse in the Parliament. Without naming individuals, he used irony to question why symbolic nationalism often dominates legislative attention while pressing issues like unemployment, inflation, education, and healthcare receive comparatively less focus. Responding to the same, Prahlad Kakkar told IANS, “If you take the politics out of a politician, what's left? They will remain ordinary people. They are politicians, and politics is their job. You have to do something for leadership. All these controversies and statements don't matter because leaders will just keep being leaders”. Earlier, Vishal had said, “Hello, brothers and sisters. I have good news for you. Yesterday, our Parliament debated on Vande Mataram for 10 hours. Vande Mataram is a very famous and well-known folk song written by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee. People love it”. He further mentioned, “It was debated in the parliament. And because of this debate, let me tell you, India’s unemployment problem has been solved. The Indigo problem has been solved. The air pollution problem has been solved. Imagine! A debate was held on a poem for 10 hours. These things were not even mentioned, but all these things have been solved because of this debate. This debate costs Rs. 2.5 lakh per minute of your tax money in the parliament. 10 hours means 600 minutes. Count it”. His comment reflected a broader liberal critique that patriotism should be measured through governance, accountability, and citizens’ welfare rather than enforced slogans. Supporters viewed his remark as a defense of free expression and personal choice, while critics accused him of disrespecting national symbols. The episode highlighted ongoing tensions between cultural nationalism and constitutional freedoms in public discourse. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
13 December,2025 07:03 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSTara Sutaria and Veer Pahariya are the newest couple on the block. Although the two have neither denied nor confirmed their alleged relationship, their PDA has left fans in awe. Now, the Sky Force actor has finally opened up about their first date and shared how he played the piano for his ladylove. Tara also recalled their memorable trip. Veer Pahariya on a memorable date with Tara In a new interview with Travel + Leisure India, the couple spoke about their first romantic date as well as their first trip together as a couple. Opening up about their first date, Veer said, “I love that we have embraced our affection and love since our first date and have never shied away from expressing how we feel wherever we are.” When asked if there was a specific moment that changed how they viewed each other, Veer recalled, “It was probably our first date night, where I played the piano, and she sang until the sun came out.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by TARA💫 (@tarasutaria) Tara, however, said the connection was built over time rather than defined by one instance. “Sticking by each other through thick and thin, as if we have known each other our whole lives,” she said. When asked about their first trip together and what made it memorable, Tara revealed, “Growing up, my mum had always told me the Isle of Capri was where you take your best friend and beloved because there is an old saying that if you embrace this person on the boat while passing through the isle, you will stay this special forever—and that’s exactly what we did,” she said. About Tara and Veer Tara Sutaria and Veer Pahariya reportedly began dating in early 2025. Their relationship first became a talking point after they were spotted together on private outings. Before Pahariya, Sutaria was in a long-term relationship with Aadar Jain. The couple parted ways in 2023, and earlier this year, Jain tied the knot with Alekha Advani. Pahariya, meanwhile, was previously linked to Sara Ali Khan. On the work front, Veer debuted this year with Sky Force, which also starred Sara Ali Khan and Akshay Kumar. His next project is yet to be announced. Meanwhile, Tara Sutaria’s major upcoming project is the pan-India action film Toxic, starring alongside Yash, Huma Qureshi, and Akshay Oberoi.
13 December,2025 05:59 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActor-turned-politician Raj Babbar remembered his late wife Smita Patil on her death anniversary on Saturday. He claimed that her goodness made Smita both a great actor and an incredible human being. Babbar added that her empathy was palpable on the screen, giving her the ability to convert even simple stories into a tale of justice. Sharing a photo of Smita on his Insta handle, he wrote, "What made Smita Patil a truly great actor was the same quality that defined her off-screen - she was extraordinarily good. Her profound empathy captured the struggles of common people transforming simple stories into soul-stirring anthems for justice. She graced us for so little time, yet countless hearts still resonate with her essence." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Raj Babbar (@rajbabbarmp) "You gave us so little time to know you. This mystery shall forever remain unexplained. Remembering Smita on her Punyatithi," he added. In October, Raj Babbar penned another heartfelt note on Smita's birth anniversary. He recalled how Smita used film as a medium to bring about change in society. Babbar added that she constantly questioned norms and broke stereotypes. Babbar penned on the photo-sharing app, "Smita consciously used her cinematic journey as a medium to drive change. Her portrayals dared to question norms and dismantle stereotypes. Her ease with complex roles and her deep understanding of characters woven into our social fabric set her apart. (sic)" Reflecting on her glorious cinematic journey, Babbar added, "She achieved so much within the brief span that destiny allowed. The brevity of her life will alway feel like an unhealed grievance. On her birth anniversary, I fondly remember Smita Patil." For those who do not know, Smita was married to Babbar, and the two even have a son, actor Prateik Smita Patil. However, Smita unfortunately passed away on December 13, 1986, at the age of 31 after suffering childbirth complications. It must be noted that more than ten of her films were released following her demise. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
13 December,2025 05:15 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSMusic composer Amaal Mallik grabbed the limelight for his stint in Bigg Boss 19. The singer, known to wear his heart on his sleeve, found himself in hot waters after he exposed Sachet and Parampara for allegedly using his tune for Bekhayali from Kabir Singh. The singers shared a video reacting to the claims and demanded an apology. He has now reacted to their statements and clarified that he never stole anyone’s credit. Amaal Mallik on Sachet-Parampara claims In a conversation with Zoom, Amaal reacted to the fiasco and stated, “I’ll take the bullet but speak the truth. If someone wants to malign my name within the industry, which they do, if someone wants to say through interviews, ‘ki usne bhi remix kiya toh kiya’. Kaise kiya, voh bhi aap dekho,” he said. Amaal further added, “Kisika credit khaya? Nahi. Kabhi bola ki yeh gaana mera hai, ya bola ki recreate nahi kiya? People put their names on others’ songs and say, ‘maine banaya’. Never done that. Has any composer whose song I have recreated woken up and said he has destroyed my song? Never. You go and see what has happened before.” Amaal then added, “They never say this on my face because half of them are afraid of me, and that is the truth. They will never come and talk to me. They will say it on Instagram and not do a court case. If anyone has a problem, go to court straight up. File a case of defamation if you feel I have copied your music.” Sachet-Parampara demand apology from Amaal This follows Amaal's statement in an interview with Siddharth Kannan, where he claimed that Sachet-Parampara utilised his tune as a reference for Bekhayali. Amaal stated that he had shared the tune with the couple over WhatsApp. View this post on Instagram A post shared by सचेत टंडन (@sachettandonofficial) Clarifying the issue, the duo shared a video on Instagram and insisted that Bekhayali was entirely their creation, developed during music sessions with the Kabir Singh team, which included Shahid Kapoor and director Sandeep Reddy Vanga. They stated, “We have all the chats with Amaal Mallik, all the conversations with the Kabir Singh team, because the entire team was present when we created this song. Every melody, every composition, every lyric was crafted right there, and it is a Sachet and Parampara original work.” The duo further shared texts sent by Bigg Boss 19 contestant and accused him of now “claiming” that he had “stolen” their song. The musicians demanded a public apology, stating that the allegations had harmed their reputation.
13 December,2025 04:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentRicky Kej has raised an alarm on social media after alleging theft by a food delivery executive at his Bengaluru residence. Sharing CCTV footage and vehicle details online, the Grammy-winning musician claimed the individual trespassed into his home and stole a sump cover. Kej tagged the delivery platform and police, seeking help in identifying the suspect while urging citizens to stay vigilant. Ricky Kej gets robbed In his post, Kej wrote, “I was robbed! Dear zomato, zomatocare, looks like one of your drivers entered my home on Thursday and stole our sump cover. This was at 6 o’clock in the evening. Quite bold of them! This is probably not their first time. They came in just 15 minutes earlier for a recce, and then trespassed and committed the crime.” He also shared CCTV footage and vehicle details. “You can see the CCTV footage from two angles, along with screenshots of his face and the number plate. The number appears to be KA03HY8751 on a red Honda Activa,” he wrote. In the same post, Kej appealed for assistance in identifying the person involved and urged people to remain alert. “Is it possible for you or the BlrCityPolice to provide assistance as to who this person is? Also, people, be vigilant. This can happen to you too!” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ricky Kej (@rickykej) Reacting to the allegation, Zomato’s official X account issued a response assuring the musician of immediate action. The company wrote, “Hi Ricky, this is really concerning, and we certainly don't encourage such behaviour from our delivery partners. We'll investigate this immediately so that necessary action can be taken, and we'd request you to kindly share your mobile number with us via DM so we can connect with you further.” Ricky Kej on Dhurandhar Earlier today, the singer was in the news as he reviewed Dhurandhar and compared it to Pathaan. While he praised the performances and cinematic brilliance, he also called out those criticising the film. A part of his note read, “P.S. The tiny few who are criticising the movie have probably not watched it. It shows things as they are, gruesome or otherwise, with no sugar coating. It is certified adult, so it would be foolish to take children. People criticising the film probably prefer movies with a sexy female Pakistani ISI agent dancing in a bikini to Besharam Rang. That is cinema according to them.”
13 December,2025 04:18 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentDhurandhar continues to showcase its exceptional run at the box office even in its second week. Ever since its release, the film has shattered several records. Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna, R Madhavan, and the team have registered a bumper Friday and achieved this rare feat. The film earned over Rs 34 crores on Day 8 and officially emerged as the biggest second Friday grosser in Indian cinema history. Dhurandhar box office The official figures have been unveiled, and Dhurandhar raked in a whopping Rs 34.70 crores on Day 8. In its first week, the film minted Rs 218 crores. The net collection in India has come to Rs 252.70 crores after eight days. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jio Studios (@officialjiostudios) It has registered the highest second Friday collections in the history of Bollywood, surpassing Pushpa 2, which earned Rs 27.50 crores in the Hindi belt. Top 10 all-time highest second Friday grossers: Dhurandhar (Rs 34.70 cr), Pushpa 2: The Rule (Rs 27.50 cr), Chhaava (Rs 24.03 cr), Animal (Rs 23.53 cr), Gadar 2 (Rs 20.50 cr), Baahubali 2: The Conclusion (Rs 19.75 cr), Stree 2 (Rs 19.30 cr), The Kashmir Files (Rs 19.15 cr), and Jawan (Rs 19.10 cr). The film is expected to surpass the lifetime earnings of URI: The Surgical Strike. This week, Kapil Sharma’s Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon also released in theatres and looks set to face the onslaught of Dhurandhar. The film is expected to enjoy a good run in the coming days due to the huge Christmas–New Year holiday period, considered the most lucrative window at the box office. Agastya Nanda’s Ikkis is also set to hit screens next week. Will it race ahead of Dhurandhar? Only time will tell. About Dhurandhar Released worldwide on December 5, the film stars Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, Sara Arjun, Rakesh Bedi, and Arjun Rampal in prominent roles. Inspired by real events, it follows an Indian spy who infiltrates Pakistani gangs to extract information about potential attacks on India. While the film continues its dream run theatrically, it has now been banned across all Gulf countries. According to a report in Bollywood Hungama, the film’s narrative led to the ban in the UAE and GCC region. A source told the portal, “Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE have not released Dhurandhar. There were apprehensions that this would happen, as the film is perceived as an anti-Pakistan film.”
13 December,2025 02:31 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBollywood couple Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal spoke in favour of social media ban for kids in India, following the footsteps of Australia. During a panel discussion, which took place in MET (Mumbai Education Trust) College, Mumbai, Sonakshi and Zaheer were asked to comment on Australia's social media ban for people aged under 16. Reacting to this, Sonakshi called it a 'very good thing', saying that the ban should be implemented in India as well. Pitching in, Zaheer shared that according to him, one does not always need to impose a ban; however, it is crucial to control what kind of content the kids are watching on social media. Zaheer said, "You can do extreme also. And you can ban things. But it's also that you can control it properly. Like in my house, when my niece comes over, she has an iPad, but it's very controlled in what she can use on the iPad. So, I think there's a way to control it. You don't have to. I mean, it's good." Sonakshi was of the opinion that till the time a kid is unable to differentiate between right and wrong, they should not be exposed to social media. "No, I think it's avoidable. Till a certain age at least. Till a child is old enough to understand the difference between right and wrong, and what is good, and what is bad. I think till that age, it should not be exposed to a child," the Heeramandi actress added. "Yeah, and till then, also like you should really control it. Sometimes, you don't know what buttons, where they go. So, it's always good to monitor them when they are watching as well. I know it's a pain. If someone is watching for 2 hours, and you are watching with them. But someone should," Zaheer concluded. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
13 December,2025 01:48 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSBollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has arrived in Kolkata ahead of his much-awaited meet with football legend Lionel Messi on Saturday. In visuals going viral from Kolkata airport, SRK was seen making a late-night entry, accompanied by his younger son, AbRam. For the GOAT India Tour, Messi unveiled his 70 mm statue at Salt Lake. After this, he shared heartwarming moments with King Khan and his son, AbRam. Lionel Messi poses with Shah Rukh Khan, AbRam In a video shared by SRK's fan club, the actor is seen shaking hands with Messi and posing for photos. The global icons were also seen involved in a conversation. The football legend also met SRK’s son, AbRam, who was thrilled to meet the footballer and even took his autograph. His Inter Miami teammates, Luis Suarez and Rodrigo De Paul, were also present, and they exchanged greetings with SRK as well. In one of the clips shared by Shah Rukh Khan Universe Fan Club, the Pathaan star could be seen making an exit from the airport, exuding his usual swag and charm. SRK also made sure to oblige his fans with a quick wave before leaving the premises. Finally The Historic Moment 🔥SRK x MessiTwo Global Stars in One Frame#SRK #Messi𓃵 pic.twitter.com/2hOVgAkBAz — SRKian Faizy ( FAN ) (@SrkianFaizy9955) December 13, 2025 On Thursday, Shah Rukh took to social media to tease that he would be sharing the stage with the global football icon for an event on December 13 at the Salt Lake Stadium. Taking to his X account, formerly known as Twitter, Shah Rukh wrote, “This time round, not planning my Knight in Kolkata… and hoping the day ride is completely ‘Messi’. See you guys on the 13th at the Salt Lake Stadium.” About Lionel Messi’s visit to India Footballer Lionel Messi landed in Kolkata early on Saturday morning, with thousands of fans thronging the airport to catch a glimpse of the Argentine player. Messi is in the country for his GOAT India Tour 2025, a three-day event to be held across four cities, starting with Kolkata. The World Cup-winning captain is expected to attend multiple interactions and events. During his visit to Kolkata, Messi is also scheduled to meet former India cricket captain Sourav Ganguly and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Following his Kolkata visit, Messi is scheduled to travel to Hyderabad, Mumbai, and then Delhi. The footballer is also scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his residence before leaving the country.
13 December,2025 01:06 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActress Nushrratt Bharuccha, who is known to always speak her mind, shared her views on ambition and being labeled as an “opportunist.” Addressing an event, Nushrratt accepted the label head on; however, she reframed its meaning with honesty and maturity. The Dream Girl actress was heard saying, "I’m an opportunist too. If I get an offer for a film I genuinely want to do, then why not? Of course, I’ll go and say, ‘Yes, I want to do it.’ Everyone stands in line for a reason — because they want something. And that’s not a bad thing." She pointed out that being an opportunist has an unnecessary negative connotation attached to it. "Being an opportunist isn’t wrong, but your actions while walking that path should be responsible. Only you know that, or you learn it over time. I’ve learned from my experiences, and if my values, my perception, and my thoughts feel right to me, then they are right for me," she added. Work-wise, Nushrratt was last seen in G. Ashok's Ufff Yeh Siyapaa. A unique comedy of errors shares the journey of Kesari Lal Singh (Played by Sohum Shah), a sheepish common man, who lands in a spiralling mess when his wife, Pushpa (Played by Nushrratt), leaves him, convinced he’s been flirting with their neighbour, Kamini (Played by Nora Fatehi). Nushrratt made her Bollywood debut with Jai Santoshi Maa in 2006. Later, she went on to make a name for herself in the industry with releases such as Love Sex Aur Dhokha, Pyaar Ka Punchnama, Pyaar Ka Punchnama 2, Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety, and Dream Girl. Expanding her horizons, Nushrratt recently has been exploring different genres with her movies such as Chhorii, Janhit Mein Jaari, Ram Setu, Akelli, Ajeeb Daastaans, Chhalaang, and Chhorrii 2. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
13 December,2025 12:44 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSAs one of the most iconic movies in Indian cinema, Shaan completed 45 years of release on Friday. Actor Dalip Tahil commemorated the milestone by sharing a fun anecdote from the Ramesh Sippy directorial. Tahil revealed that the famous shaving scene from Shaan, where he is confronted by Amitabh Bachchan, was his first ever shot for a mainstream Bollywood movie. Expressing his delight at the film hitting the milestone, Tahil went on to share on his official Instagram handle, Shaan completes 45 years today and marks the anniversary of my entry into the movies. (sic)." "Here's a little fun fact for you all, the shaving sequence in Shaan was the first scene I ever shot in mainstream Bollywood, with none less than Amitji (amitabhbachchan) himself (started with the créme de la créme). Thank you Ramesh Sippy, Bachchan Saab for your patience (Folded hands and flower emoji) 45YearsOfShaan DT digiphin," he added. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dalip Tahil (@daliptahil) Backed by G. P. Sippy under the production banner of Sippy Films, the story of the drama has been provided by the former writer duo Salim–Javed. One of the most expensive films of its time, Shaan enjoys an ensemble cast with Sunil Dutt, Shashi Kapoor, Amitabh Bachchan, Shatrughan Sinha, Raakhee Gulzar, Parveen Babi, Bindiya Goswami, Mazhar Khan, and Kulbhushan Kharbanda in pivotal roles, along with others. The crime drama revolves around the murder of a police officer, Shiv (Played by Sunil Dutt). His two conman brothers, Vijay (Played by Amitabh Bachchan) and Ravi (Played by Shashi Kapoor), reform and join hands with a marksman, Rakesh (Played by Shatrughan Sinha), to seek revenge from the culprit Shakaal (Played by Kulbhushan Kharbanda). It is believed that the famous character of Shakaal was inspired by Ernst Stavro Blofeld's character from the James Bond film series. Shaan also turned out to be the last film to have songs crooned by Mohammed Rafi. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
13 December,2025 12:29 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSThe upcoming episode of Indian Idol season 16 promises to be a nostalgic celebration for music lovers as two of India’s most iconic voices, Udit Narayan and Kavita Krishnamurthy. As they graced the stage, Udit was seen sharing a fun story and a few heartwarming memories from the recording of the chartbuster song Koi Mil Gaya from the movie Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. The song, originally sung by the legendary trio Udit Narayan, Kavita Krishnamurthy, and Alka Yagnik, remains one of the most cherished melodies in Hindi cinema. Reminiscing about the recording session, Udit Narayan revealed an amusing anecdote. He recalled feeling extremely nervous before entering the studio, saying, “Jatin-Lalit ne mujhe do sherniyon ke beech khada kar diya. (Jatin-Lalit put me in a fix and put me in front of these two lionesses, aka powerhouses.)” He revealed how he had asked the music directors if he could record his part later. But Jatin–Lalit, known for being extremely persuasive, said, “Do Sherni ke beech ek sher toh aa jaye (There will always be a lion caught in between two lionesses),” encouraging Udit Narayan to sing. To this, Kavita Krishnamurthy fondly added to the memory, mentioning how Udit Narayan often showers both her and Alka Yagnik with praise, but when the mic is on, it is he himself who steals the show. She said that Udit Narayan just needs to hum a simple “hey”, and the sheer power of his voice “reaches the mountains of the Himalayas." She went on to recall how, while she and Alka Yagnik would rehearse extensively to perfect each note, Udit Narayan would deliver his parts with an ease that felt almost effortless. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
13 December,2025 10:57 AM IST | Mumbai | IANSADVERTISEMENT
