Veteran Nepali actor Sunil Thapa, widely respected for his commanding screen presence and decades-long contribution to cinema, has passed away at the age of 68. He died on February 7, 2026, at Norvic Hospital in Thapathali, Kathmandu, after his health suddenly worsened. Doctors suspect cardiac arrest as the likely cause of death, though an official medical report is still awaited. Sunil Thapa passed away in Kathmandu Born in Dang, Nepal, Thapa built an extraordinary career spanning more than four decades and became one of the most recognisable figures in Nepali cinema. He first stepped into the film world with the Hindi movie Ek Duuje Ke Liye in 1981 and went on to appear in several Bollywood projects during the early phase of his career. However, it was his work in Nepali films that cemented his legacy and made him a household name. Thapa featured in over 300 Nepali films, showcasing remarkable versatility across both heroic and villainous roles. Among his most memorable performances was the character “Rate Kaila” in the classic film Chino, a portrayal that remains iconic and is often credited with redefining on-screen antagonists in Nepali cinema. His ability to bring depth and intensity to complex characters earned him admiration from audiences and peers alike. Sunil Thapa's notable roles The actor also gained recognition beyond Nepal through appearances in Indian films, including a notable role in the biographical sports drama Mary Kom, where he portrayed the coach of the celebrated boxer. The performance helped introduce his talent to a broader audience and reinforced his reputation as a skilled character actor. Outside of acting, Thapa contributed to the film community as the chairperson of the Everest Film Academy, where he supported and mentored aspiring artists. His efforts played a role in nurturing new talent and strengthening the regional film industry. News of his passing has triggered an outpouring of grief from fans, colleagues, and members of the entertainment fraternity across Nepal and India. Many have remembered him not only as a gifted performer but also as a pioneering figure whose work helped shape modern Nepali cinema. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced after his family members arrive in Kathmandu.
07 February,2026 01:05 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe highly anticipated comedy Hera Pheri 3 has encountered a major legal challenge after a South Indian production house moved the Madras High Court, claiming that it holds the copyright to the franchise, not producer Firoz Nadiadwala. The dispute has cast uncertainty over the future of the film, which had been eagerly awaited by fans of the iconic Bollywood comedy series. At the centre of the controversy is Seven Arts International Limited, a company that says it purchased the full rights to the original Hera Pheri franchise from the makers of the Malayalam classic Ramji Rao Speaking. According to Seven Arts, the deal gave it exclusive ownership of the story and all related films, including future instalments. The company contends that Nadiadwala was only authorised to make one Hindi remake of the original Malayalam film, which he did with the 2000 version directed by Priyadarshan. However, Seven Arts claims that Nadiadwala went beyond that agreement by producing the 2006 sequel Phir Hera Pheri without proper authorisation. The production house argues that Nadiadwala never held the rights to create sequels, prequels, or to use the franchise’s characters beyond the initial official remake, and that this issue was only brought to its attention much later. The dispute escalated when Nadiadwala reportedly sold rights for Hera Pheri 3 to actor Akshay Kumar’s company, Cape of Good Films, a move Seven Arts says was invalid since he did not legally own those rights to begin with. Seven Arts Managing Director GP Vijayakumar says the original filmmakers had informed him that Nadiadwala’s rights were limited, and that he was left with no choice but to seek legal intervention to protect what he believes are his company’s rightful claims to the franchise. The production house is now asking the court to recognise its copyright and block any further use of the Hera Pheri brand without its consent. In response, Cape of Good Films said it acquired the rights under the belief that Nadiadwala was the legitimate owner. Nadiadwala has not publicly responded to the allegations, and director Priyadarshan has said he is unaware of the legal dispute. With Hera Pheri 3 already facing delays and speculation over its release, the copyright battle adds another layer of complexity, leaving the film’s future uncertain as the court prepares to hear arguments.
07 February,2026 12:44 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Federation of Western lndia Cine Employees (FWICE) has registered a strong objection to the title of the upcoming streaming film ‘Ghooskhor Pandat’. On Friday, the body, representing 36 affiliated associations and members comprising workers, technicians, and artists of the media and entertainment industry, wrote to different OTT platforms to address the issue. FWICE issues a stern notice They wrote, “FWICE and all its affiliated associations strongly object to the use of this title, as it appears to single out and target a particular community and its traditional means of livelihood in a derogatory and offensive manner. Such a title has the potential to hurt sentiments, provoke misunderstanding, and disturb social harmony”. The film stars Manoj Bajpayee in the lead role, and is produced by Neeraj Pandey under his banner Friday Filmworks. They further mentioned, “FWICE firmly believes that there should be no division in society on the grounds of caste, creed, religion, or profession. All professions are equally dignified and deserving of respect. The film industry, being a powerful medium of expression, carries a moral and social responsibility to ensure that its content and titles.do not promote hatred, disrespect, or unrest among citizens. We therefore appeal to all producer bodies to refrain from allowing the registration or continuation of film titles that are provocative in nature and capable of creating unrest among Indians. FWICE strongly condemns the registration of the said title and advises Neeraj Pandey and his production house Friday Filmworks to withdraw the same with immediate effect in the larger interest of social harmony and unity”. All about the controversy The body has said that the failure to comply with result in its affiliated associations and its members distancing themselves from any project of the producer. The row erupted after social media users slammed the title of the film for its "defamatory" overtones. A petition has been filed in the Delhi High Court against the film, alleging that its title is derogatory towards the Brahmin community. Earlier, both Manoj Bajpayee and Neeraj Pandey shared clarification over the controversy on their social media handles and also urged to the fans to not draw conclusions.
07 February,2026 11:10 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentShoot days ahead In October 2025, mid-day had reported how Aneet Padda replaced Kiara Advani in ‘Shakti Shalini’, the latest offering from Maddock Horror Comedy Universe, following her success in ‘Saiyaara’ (2025). The film, announced in the end credits of ‘Thamma’ (2025), is set to begin shooting this March. Now an interesting casting update has emerged. ‘Homebound’ (2025) star Vishal Jethwa is reportedly onboard as Aneet’s onscreen love interest. According to reports, his role “will go beyond a conventional romantic arc” and act as “both a catalyst and counterpoint to the protagonist’s journey”. The project reunites Aneet and Vishal after their earlier collaboration in ‘Salaam Venky’ (2022). ‘Shakti Shalini’ is slated for a December 24 theatrical release. Celestial casting coup Vijay Sethupathi Actor Vijay Sethupathi is reportedly in talks to join Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana as Vibhishana, Ravana’s brother who chooses the path of truth and justice. According to reports, the role is said to be “important and integral” to the two-part epic, slated for Diwali releases this year, and in 2027. However, the makers have not issued any official confirmation yet. The film stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Yash as Ravana. Paapi pet ka sawaal hai Ruby Bhatia VJ Ruby Bhatia has addressed the speculation about her finances after reports claimed she charges just '1,000 for Instagram videos. In an interview, the former 1990s TV star said the decision reflects practicality, not distress. “I used to charge about '1,00,000 per show in the 1990s,” she recalled, adding that home renovation costs drained her savings. Clarifying her situation, Ruby said, “By God’s grace, I have everything,” explaining that affordable fees help rebuild liquidity while keeping her work accessible rather than celebrity-focused.
07 February,2026 09:16 AM IST | Mumbai | The Hitlist TeamSaiyami Kher is preparing for the final schedule of Vikram Phadnis’s debut film alongside Tahir Raj Bhasin and Viineet Kumar Siingh. She praised the director’s empathy and faith in actors, saying the project challenged her creatively while also fostering personal growth. Vikram Phadnis Gearing up for the movie’s last leg, Kher said that the first-time director’s sensitivity seeps not only into the material but also on the set. She shared, “There is something fulfilling in knowing that the director, who has lived with the story, feels content with what you’ve brought to it. Vikram sir leads with honesty, empathy, and complete faith in his actors. His sensitivity shows in the smallest details. He understands actors and that makes all the difference.” Like some of her past offerings, Phadnis’s movie challenged the artiste in her. But it did something more, she said. “It gave me space to grow, not just as an actor, but also as a person. Few films do that.”
07 February,2026 09:09 AM IST | Mumbai | Mohar BasuTwenty years is a long time to be away from a franchise you love. Naturally then, Sharman Joshi — who was part of Golmaal: Fun Unlimited (2006), which kicked off filmmaker Rohit Shetty’s comedy franchise — is itching to return to the world of Golmaal 5. “I’m likely to start working on it soon,” the actor told mid-day. A lot has happened in the interim. Golmaal, led by Ajay Devgn, has had three instalments. Joshi wasn’t a part of them, with reports claiming that he had hiked his fees, which didn’t go down well with the producers. In several interviews, he claimed it was a miscommunication from his team that led to his ouster and he didn’t know until later. Even as he has joined Golmaal 5 that will star Devgn, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Arshad Warsi, Kunal Kemmu, Tusshar Kapoor, and Shreyas Talpade, he wished he hadn’t lost the years. “I missed Rohit’s energy on sets, Ajay sir’s intensity and calmness. I missed Tusshar too. Rohit’s entire team is warm and inclusive.” The comic caper will go on floors in late February. While rumours are rife that Akshay Kumar will play the antagonist, Joshi is keen to explore his on-screen dynamics with Talpade and Kemmu. “I [had seen] Shreyas’s work during intercollegiate competitions as our colleges were next to each other. I’ve been his fan since Iqbal [2005]. Kunal and I will reunite after Dhol [2007].” The Good old days ‘Rang De Basanti’ (2006) completed 20 years of release last month. Remembering it, the actor said, “Last week, I was listening to the album, and all the fond memories came rushing back. Working on it was a fabulous journey.” On ‘4 Idiots’ Sharman Joshi denied being approached for the ‘3 Idiots’ sequel. “I’ve not been informed about it so far, but I hope it happens,” he said.
07 February,2026 08:57 AM IST | Mumbai | Letty Mariam AbrahamCertain movies aren’t to be valued on the basis of their box-office collections. Border 2 is one such film for Varun Dhawan. Even as the Sunny Deol, Diljit Dosanjh, Dhawan, and Ahan Shetty-led war drama has crossed the Rs 300 crore mark at the domestic box office, it is far more than a commercial milestone for the actor. “I gave everything I had to Border 2 — physically, emotionally, and mentally,” started the actor, who played war veteran Hoshiar Singh Dahiya. Varun Dhawan (C) with Ahan Shetty (L) and Diljit Dosanjh Dhawan joined the cast of Anurag Singh’s directorial venture knowing the responsibility it came with. “I wanted to earn my place in this film every day on set. It’s a film that made my father [David Dhawan] proud,” he smiled. Over his 13 years in the industry, the actor has built a varied filmography — if there are comedies like Judwaa 2 (2017) and Jug Jugg Jeeyo (2022), there are also thoughtful movies like Badlapur (2015) and Bhediya (2022). To him, his theatrical track record indicates something bigger. “What matters to me is that people trust my name when they buy a ticket. That trust doesn’t come from one film. It comes from showing up consistently, respecting the audience, and making sure every film gives them value for their money.” Varun Dhawan with Medha Rana A similar approach is applied to Border 2. Even as the film marks his first Rs 300 crore earner, Dhawan views it through a larger lens. “It proves that big-screen cinema still matters to the audience. People will come to theatres when the story connects. A Rs 300 crore film isn’t just about personal success; it’s about what it does for the industry. Steady commerce is essential for its health. When films regularly cross Rs 100 crore, it allows producers to invest, technicians to work continuously, and theatres to survive. It allows for more experimental cinema. People are willing to take a punt on [new] ideas because money is being generated by big-ticket ventures. My responsibility doesn’t end with acting well. I want my films to work, and sustain business.” What’s next? Varun Dhawan will soon be seen in ‘Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai’ with Pooja Hegde (L) and Mrunal Thakur
07 February,2026 08:51 AM IST | Mumbai | Mohar BasuDirector: Jaspal Singh SandhuActors: Sanjay Mishra, Neena GuptaRating: 3 stars First off, this film, in parts, could be a master-class in onscreen acting. Those parts being quite linearly divided between its top four leads who, individually, get almost equal, exclusive screen time, to draw the audiences in, with their quietly understated performances, throughout the film’s two-hours-plus, tight duration. Each is worthy of central roles at the movies, anyway. Namely, actors Sanjay Mishra, Neena Gupta, Kumud Mishra, Amitt K Singh. The latter is a young, confident detective investigating disappearance and possible murder, of a high-profile inmate at a prison, where Kumud plays a casteist, calm jailer. The centre of attention is Neena Gupta’s character, who’s been behind bars for decades, having supposedly befriended a lowly jail employee, that is, Sanjay Mishra, along the way! Between these top-notch performances, the set-up is stellar. What about the pay-off? Have to admit, there are multiple passages, you might find yourself ignoring what’s going on, on the big screen, and switch to your second screen, instead. Precious little happens by way of plot. That said, a pic like this works/excels not so much for the story, per se, as for its storytelling, as it were. As this does. Vadh 2 is obviously a sequel. In the sense that merely the two main actors return. Chiefly, Sanjay, as the quietly genial Shambhu Nath Mishra — looking equally lost, unkempt, as is, and being so himself, that you can hear audiences respond to his every move/line, even when he isn’t saying anything particularly funny, or of much import, anyway. The way Mishra Ji (Ankhon Dekhi, Kaamyaab) is, in general, in life. He’s such an Old Monk, isn’t it? Which is also his choice of drink. Equally for the other rum-drinkers in this ensemble cast. There’s a portion, where Sanjay’s character tells Neena about how his wife, that’s actually her, had passed away; his son had moved on, leaving his parents behind, with a huge debt they’d taken, in order to settle him abroad. That’s the story of the OG Vadh (2022), also directed by Jaspal Singh Sandhu (along with Rajeev Barnwal), which felt vastly over-the-top, on occasion, for a realistic, small-town suspense-thriller. You needn’t watch that, in order to enjoy this. The writer-director, Sandhu, has taken a fresh stab at the characters, and the script, let alone the world-building. It starts with the logo of Madhya Pradesh (MP) tourism, which makes it an odd film for a tourism board to endorse. It’s set entirely within a zila/district jail, supposedly in a small-town called Shivpuri, with all the crooks, criminals that no one should visit MP for. I’m guessing the film’s been shot in Bhopal jail. Which was also the location for the Netflix series, Black Warrant (2025), similarly set within the premises of a prison. The bone of connection is the brash, uncouth son of an MLA (Akshay Dogra), whose reign within is supreme. Nobody can rein this villain in. He’s the guy gone missing from jail, or possibly dead. Here’s the obvious rub, though. This is a whodunnit, where you feel good-riddance towards the fellow for whatever’s been done to him. Surely, murder is illegal. Hence, the detective investigating the case. The viewer is always two steps ahead of this cop. Audience privilege is complete. The word vadh itself implies vanquishing evil, in the context of a good cause. The question is simply how/when/why. You consume this genre in the mould of, say, Drishyam, which is effectively a writer/viewer’s obsession with an unsolvable crime, or perfect murder, as it were. Speaking of Drishyam, that’s on to its threequel, of course, Malayalam movies inevitably do this slow-burn better. Among so many examples, take the more recent, Kishkindha Kaandam (2024). We’ve inhaled such movies regularly on OTTs, assuming that’s where such content belongs. It’s actually mildly therapeutic to be in a quieter hall, muted background score, heightened performances, when the point of a scene is to lead to another, and for movie itself to hold your attention with a simple story. That’s the virtue of Vadh 2. I walked in, having lowered my expectations. It remains a rare instance, when the sequel’s way better.
06 February,2026 10:30 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentManoj Bajpayee's upcoming project, Ghooskhor Pandat, was recently announced at a grand event in Mumbai. However, ever since, things haven't been going great as the upcoming film has raked up a huge controversy over its name. After an FIR was filed against the show and its makers, now, members of the Brahmin community have staged protests against the film and demanded a change in the title. Protest in Bhopal over Ghoooskhor Pandat In Bhopal, Akhil Bhartiya Brahman Samaj protestors were seen holding placards which read, 'Iss film ka nirmata Neeraj Pandey murdabad', 'Digital platform Netflix ko bandh karo, FIR karo', 'Iss film ka kalakaar Manoj Bajpayee murdabad', among others, as they took to the streets to express their anger. Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh: Members of the Brahmin community in Bhopal protested against the film Ghooskhor Pandat, demanding immediate removal of the title and registration of an FIR against the film’s directors. pic.twitter.com/f2dgQnVin9 — IANS (@ians_india) February 6, 2026 Similarly, in Prayagraj, the Rashtriya Parshuram Sena (Brahma Vahini) protested by openly showcasing its anger against the film. They accused it of hurting the honour of the Brahmin community. During the protests, effigies of Neeraj Pandey and Manoj Bajpayee were beaten with slippers, kicked and thrown onto the ground. The effigies were also set on fire at Subhash Chowk in Civil Lines, with hundreds of people in attendance. About Ghoooskhor Pandat controversy On the directions of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Lucknow's Hazratganj Police has registered an FIR against the forthcoming movie Ghoooskhor Pandat. According to Lucknow Police, strict action has been taken following allegations that the content attempts to disturb social harmony and hurt religious and caste sentiments. Due to the name and content of the film, there is intense anger and outrage among the Brahmin community and various social organisations. These organisations have even warned of aggressive protests against the drama. Legal action and investigation are underway in view of the seriousness of the matter. Strictest action is expected to be taken against those who intend to hurt the sentiments of any community or disturb peace under the zero-tolerance policy. Meanwhile, the lead of the project, Manoj Bajpayee, claimed through a recent social media post that Ghooskhor Pandat is 'not about any community. "I respect the emotions and concerns people have shared, and I take them seriously. When something you are part of causes hurt to some people, it makes you pause and listen. As an actor, I come to a film through the character and the story I am playing. For me, this was about portraying a flawed individual and his journey of self realisation. This was not meant to be a statement about any community," he shared. Bajpayee also said that the decision by the makers to take down the promotional material of the drama goes to show how seriously they are taking these concerns.Additionally, Neeraj Pandey also clarified in an official statement issued through Netflix's publicity team that the term 'Pandat' is used as a colloquial name for a fictional character, and it does not represent any particular caste, religion, or community. (With inputs from IANS)
06 February,2026 07:45 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe much-anticipated crime thriller, Vadh 2, headlined by Sanjay Mishra and Neena Gupta, has finally hit the screens on February 6. The film has already sparked buzz, especially due to the suspense and unexpected turns of its predecessor. Amid the release, the lead actors have urged the audiences to help preserve the film's essence by steering clear of spoilers. Neena Gupta and Sanjay Mishra urge fans to not give spoilers Neena Gupta and Sanjay Mishra shared a note on their respective Instagram stories, wherein they directly addressed fans and moviegoers regarding the importance of maintaining the thrill for future audiences. Gupta, in her story, wrote, "We request you to please not give away the spoilers or climax of Vadh 2. The film has been made as a thriller mystery, and we hope the experience remains intact for everyone watching it in theatres (sic)." Sanjay shared a similar note in Hindi. About Vadh 2 Vadh 2 is produced by Luv Ranjan and Ankur Garg under the Luv Films banner. It is helmed by Jaspal Singh Sandhu, who has also written the film. The recently released thriller serves as a sequel to the 2022 film Vadh, taking on the thematic exploration of complex moral choices. The film centres on the relationship between a prison guard and an inmate, which unfolds against the backdrop of a hidden truth that continues to challenge their values and decisions. The sequel introduces new characters portrayed by Kumud Mishra, Shilpa Shukla, Amitt K Singh, Akshay Dogra, and Yogita Bihani, thus expanding the narrative beyond the original cast. Vadh 2 premiered at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) on November 23, 2025, where it drew a lot of attention and acclaim from critics and audiences prior to its public release. Mid-day's review of the film read, "Vadh 2 is produced by Luv Ranjan and Ankur Garg under the Luv Films banner and is directed by Jaspal Singh Sandhu. It serves as a sequel to the 2022 film Vadh, continuing the thematic exploration of complex moral choices. Early reviews highlighted the film's gripping story and commended the performances of the lead actors, especially in delivering the intense climax."
06 February,2026 05:35 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentRap music is no longer a niche, it’s a cultural wave. From film soundtracks to independent drops, rap tracks today are shaping pop culture, dominating reels, and becoming everyday anthems for a generation that values raw emotion and unfiltered storytelling. Be it swag, ambition, or street style, these songs have cracked the code of virality and here’s a look at the top trending rap tracks that have audiences hooked - Dhurandhar – Title Track Hard-hitting and unapologetically intense, the Dhurandhar title track sets the tone with its aggressive beats and commanding presence. Designed to match the film’s gritty energy, the track, composed by Shashwat Sachdev and sung by Hanumankind, Jasmine Sandlas and others, quickly caught attention for its scale and powerful delivery, making it a favourite among fans who like their rap bold and dramatic. Naam Karu Bada – Tu Yaa Main Sung by Adarsh Gourav, Naam Karu Bada stands out for its confident, street-style energy and fresh underground pulse. Blending attitude with ambition, the track perfectly taps into the youth mindset, chasing dreams, claiming space, and saying it loud. Composed by Sez On The Beat with lyrics by 7Bantaiz, its catchy hook and intent are helping it find a strong fan base beyond the film. Ez Ez – Dhurandhar Cool, effortless, and dripping with swag, Ez Ez lives up to its name. The track brings an explosive energy matched with intense visuals, making it instantly replay-worthy. Performed by Diljit Dosanjh, Shashwat Sachdev and Hanumankind, it’s the kind of song that slips easily into party playlists and late-night listening sessions alike. Walking On Water – DIVINE DIVINE continues to prove why he remains one of the most influential voices in Indian hip-hop. Walking On Water is reflective yet powerful, blending personal growth with lyrical depth. The track resonated widely for its honesty and maturity, striking a chord with listeners who’ve followed his journey from the streets to the spotlight. 10/20 – Emiway Bantai Raw, fearless, and unmistakably Emiway, 10/20 delivers punchlines with attitude and precision. Known for his independent and unfiltered style, Emiway keeps it real in this track, which quickly received love for its energy and vibe. These tracks prove that rap is not just trending, it’s shaping the sound of now. With artists constantly pushing boundaries and audiences hungry for authenticity, this wave shows no signs of slowing down.
06 February,2026 05:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
